The Gods Are Bastards A High Fantasy Western

It was a world of sword and sorcery, but that was a thousand years ago. When the gods turn their backs, true adventurers are needed more than ever. For centuries, the Empire of Tiraas has surged forward in the name of peace, commerce, and political power, evolving from its early days of heroes, quests, and reckless abandon in favor of a more refined, industrious existence. Today, rails connect cities and outposts. Religion is power--even if the gods have gone silent. Magic is a commodity. Dwarves and elves are carefully discouraged from exhibiting any unwanted behaviors. Even the scariest monsters are dealt with diplomatically. Needless to say, the days in which a person could make a living as a wandering adventurer are long since gone. But a nightmarish darkness looms, and those dormant, discarded ideals of courage, honor, and death-defying heroism must somehow rise to the surface once again. Because a demonic force has returned from the past--and it means to stay. Meanwhile, at the University of Last Rock on the unforgiving, notably uncivilized frontier, an unruly band of youngsters yearns to show the world what they can do.