"Built from the skulls of fallen generals and demon princes, the Skull Throne of Krasia is a seat of honor and powerful magic that keeps the demon corelings at bay. Now it stands empty. From atop it, Ahmann Jardir was meant to conquer the known world, forging a unified army to end the demon war once and for all. Arlen Bales, the Warded Man, stood against this course, challenging Jardir to a duel to the death. Rather than risk defeat, Arlen cast Jardir and himself from a precipice, opening a struggle for succession that threatens to tear the Free Cities of Thesa apart" -- back cover.