Runebound Series by Sandell Wall

Four hundred years ago the Alkomian Empire clawed its way from the long dark, uniting the splintered factions of mankind under one banner. Harnessing the mysterious power of runes, the empire of man spread across the land, exploring and inhabiting the ancient fortresses that they plundered for runestones. For centuries humanity has stood unopposed, masters of their own destiny. Until now. In the east a darkness stirs... moreFour hundred years ago the Alkomian Empire clawed its way from the long dark, uniting the splintered factions of mankind under one banner. Harnessing the mysterious power of runes, the empire of man spread across the land, exploring and inhabiting the ancient fortresses that they plundered for runestones. For centuries humanity has stood unopposed, masters of their own destiny. Until now. In the east a darkness stirs. An evil beyond myth and memory sends its agents to plant the seeds of mankind’s destruction. From the forgotten wastelands the vanguard of an invasion starts its slow but inexorable march. On the border of the empire a novice blacksmith, disillusioned with his life, dreams of challenge and adventure. In the imperial palace a young soldier embarks on her first mission as a member of the most elite fighting force in the empire. As ruin descends upon the empire, two young heroes will be forged from blood and chaos. less

The Alkomian Empire lies in ruin. An army of traitors marches on the capital, forcing the emperor from his throne. In his absence, chaos reigns. Villages burn as the blood of innocents runs in the streets. Entire provinces are reduced to rubble, demolished by terrible rune-power. Darkness and despair covers the land as hope for deliverance is consumed in the flames of destruction. On the border of the empire, two young heroes stand bloodied but unbroken... moreThe Alkomian Empire lies in ruin. An army of traitors marches on the capital, forcing the emperor from his throne. In his absence, chaos reigns. Villages burn as the blood of innocents runs in the streets. Entire provinces are reduced to rubble, demolished by terrible rune-power. Darkness and despair covers the land as hope for deliverance is consumed in the flames of destruction. On the border of the empire, two young heroes stand bloodied but unbroken. Aventine is cut off from the rest of the Rune Guard. Trapped in the Brokenspire Mountains, she fights to protect a small band of imperial loyalists from the corrupt soldiers of the First Legion. Remus, shackles traded for an axe, leads his men against the runebound horde as it creeps across the Wilds. He is the last line of defense standing between the empire and this implacable foe. As the empire crumbles, the architect of its doom rises in the east. Savaroth the Immortal walks the earth, and his coming heralds the end of the age of man. less