Lackey, Mercedes

Kiron and his friends, established in a desert cliff dwelling seemingly made for dragons, must not only bring order to the new society, but be on guard against Magi who might try to achieve conquest surreptitiously after failing to win with violence.

In gaining entry to Altan noble society, Kiron had come to learn many distressing things about who really controlled Alta. The Magi were plotting to replace the royal Great Ones and rule Alta, and had built a terrible weapon, the Eye of Light, which could kill from afar.

After earning the rank of full Herald, Talia, discovers she must face even greater trials during her internship on patrol dispensing Herald's justice in the kingdom of Valdemar. It will require all her courage and skill not to misuse her special powers or she and Valdemar will suffer.

Opposing forces vie to control Elspeth, heir to the throne of Valdemar. When Talia, the Queen's Own Herald, returns to court she is beset by diplomatic intrigue. On a diplomatic mission to investigate a marriage proposal she discovers the evil and ancient sorcery that is trying to destroy Valdemar.

The kingdom of Valdemar is challenged and Elspeth, heir to the throne, takes up the challenge. Her untrained mage abilities are awakened and a captain comes to her and Valdemar's aid.

When Constable Tal Rufen notices a pattern in a series of brutal murders and is fired for his alertness, he travels to Kingston and appeals to High Bishop Ardis for her sponsorship. As a secret Grand Inquisitor, Tal hopes to find out why someone is killing female musicians and how magic and the Church are linked to the crimes.

Prequel to Lackey's very first Valdemar novel Arrows of the Queen.