First published 1995
Quaeryt has settled into his role as princeps of Tilbor, married to Vaelora and concealing his Imager abilities from all but his closest allies. When Mount Extel erupts and destroys much of Telaryn's capital city, killing the governor, Lord Bhayar sends Quaeryt and Vaelora to restore order to the chaos. They arrive in Extela to find a city crippled by destruction, rampant corruption, and citizens who have lost faith in their leaders. Quaeryt must use both his administrative skills and hidden magical powers to rebuild the government and economy while rooting out the officials who have been exploiting the disaster for personal gain. Time works against him as his military regiment prepares to leave for border duty, where a neighboring ruler masses forces to invade Telaryn's weakened territory. Quaeryt faces the challenge of stabilizing a broken city while preparing for external threats that could destroy everything he has worked to protect.
Genres: science-fiction, historical-fiction, fantasy, political-thriller
Vibes: fast-paced, suspenseful, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, fish-out-of-water
Setting: Tilbor, Telaryn, Extela
Period: Ancient, Medieval
496 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Avon Books