Mechanikal

Mechanikal (2012) is a book published by Arch Enemy Entertainment through the company's novel imprint. The book was written by Neil Herndon, edited by Thomas Bolding, and drawn by Steven Oaks and Robert Bermea. Blending high fantasy and steam punk, the story follows a band of heroes on their quest to face an old, evil enemy.

Synopsis
 The war isn’t coming, it’s already here. The realms have stood on a knife blade, hoping something would be done. Yet, none of the so-called “great kings” did anything to keep the darkness from swallowing the land.

 Now there is no choice. All must rise up and defend their homes.

Despite the looming fear, the drums of war are not heard in every corner. In some villages, life moves at the pace it always has, slow but steady. The age of mechanics has taken over, the new ways replacing the old. A few small groups still practice the old magickal ways, but most have given up spells for gears.

 It is in these places that the sting of war is felt most of all. Not the grand towers or sprawling castle nations, but in the villages, where the common folk reside. It is in one of these villages that a roguish bandit, Wolf, makes his home; an outlaw who will soon find himself answering a greater call than the price on his head; a thief and a robber who sees the true plight of the innocent and stands up for those who need protection. True protection.

As more and more citizens are drafted for the army, Wolf gathers a small band of like-minded souls. His team comes together with one goal: strike back at the heart of the enemy. Different races, different skills, and different ideals come together to destroy the threat once and for all. All of them willing to risk everything, all of them able to fight to the last breath to see their cause complete.

 As the death toll rises and the innocent conscripts are forced into action, everyone, from the rulers to the smallest child, put their faith in a ragtag band of mercenaries and soldiers. It’s everything or nothing, save the day or die trying. If the troupe fails, a plague of evil will scour the lands. The pressure is on; the threat is real, and the true heroes of the mounting war will never have their names sung in praise even if they succeed.

 It’s not about glory or medals or little bits of ribbon. It’s about survival. Seeing one more sunrise, and doing something good before the night takes over.