Ars Theory

The era of King Solomon has long passed, his legacy now etched in the pages of human history. But it was only a matter of time until the seal on his greatest yet darkest accomplishment came undone. The Ars Goetia-a grimoire-shaped vessel containing 72 of the mightiest rulers of Hell-has opened once more. This clandestine society of demons is now free to roam our world once more. But the shadow of their former master still looms in their hearts, influencing the different kinds of ways they view and interact with humans.

Ars Theory, the debut work of Jon Sabado, is a collection of short stories that serves as a critique of several aspects on the human condition through the eyes of ancient demons who either wish to dominate them or connect with them. Of the 72 rulers, twelve provide unique commentary on our world and explore the complexity that exists between their race and ours. Are demons meant to terrorize humans endlessly? How fragile can the human heart be in the face of the supernatural? Can demons be capable of love and affection the same way humans are capable of destruction without remorse? Has the confirmation that parts of both races exist within each other already manifested without our awareness? This collection delves into such inquiries to delineate humane themes such as mortality, redemption and desperation.