The Scepter of Xarbaal - its unspeakable power is capable of shattering the very foundation of the world. Created in the pits of hell by the ancient gods, mortal hands were never meant to wield it. To do so brings certain madness and death. Yet King Zemel the Conqueror, ruler of Acharia, has used it to set the lands ablaze, plunging his nation into war. But before his conquest can be realized, the Scepter is stolen and spirited away by his most trusted servants. Finally, after years of searching, the king has found a way to regain what he has lost. And only one man can accomplish this task: Akiri, Commander of the Dul' Buhar - the deadliest of warriors, imbued with extraordinary abilities through the dark magic of the king. With his mind as sharp as his blade, he is the mightiest of his lethal order. Through an unbending will and relentless determination, he has never tasted defeat. But it will take more than strength if he is to survive the trials ahead. And not even the gods can fathom the destiny set before him. Akiri's epic quest combines the fast-paced adventure of R. E. Howard's classic Conan tales with a modern sensibility. High-octane, blood-soaked action and pulse-pounding adventure mark the first novel in Akiri's world.