Synopsis: Lords of War

Lords of War is an alternate history where the Roman Empire survives and competes with the Vikings for supremacy over northern Europe, a world where magic is bound to certain natural objects and connected to the earth. In the beginning, all magic was controlled by stones crafted by the power of the Atlanteans, but while some of the stones still exist after Atlantis was destroyed, they are hidden because they have proven too powerful, and magic runs wild with lesser stones becoming dangerous heirloms and powerful weapons..

After falling foul of the leader of the Mithras cult who wants to be the true power behind the Imperial throne, centurion Julius Valerius Aurelian is commissioned to the Albis border where warriors of the Scandians keep raiding the province Germania Inferior. Valerius soon discovers that border infringements are the least of his problems. There is a Mithras assassin lurking, battles are won by dark magic, a high-ranking officer seems to be in league with the Scandian rebels, and the Scandian prince Kormac Halvdanson appears in the Roman camp a fugitive.

After the death of his father by the hands of a powerful rival, the Scandian prince Kormac Halvdanson Hardrada flees his home only to find traitors among his family and allies. He escapes to the Romans in hope they'll aid him against the ursurper and his warlocks, but runs into danger of becoming a tool for the different Roman factions. Kormac's only way to power could be a career in the Roman army, but that would alienate the Scandians still faithful to him and may close the way back to the throne.

Castamir mac Tarain, brother of the king, is a hostage of the Scandian rebels after Caledonia fell under their dominion. He hides the fact that he is a spellsinger from the Scandian warlocks, but one day he has to use his power, and the only way to save his life is to flee. His way leads through the Roman camp, but if they recognise his identity, Castamir may find himself the figurehead of a Roman reconquest of Caledonia and a greater danger to his people than the Scandians.

When a flood inundates the coasts and the legendary rulers of the Lost Kingdoms appear to be real, Valerius, Kormac and Castamir find that their problems have but begun. There are powers greater and more dangerous than ursurpers, assassins and invading armies, and temptations that may break the alliance between the three men, their only chance to survive - and maybe to save the world they know from falling prey to more than floods.