"A rousing tale of courtly intrigues and chivalrous honor" from the author of The Glass Magician (Charles de Lint, award-winning writer).
Just as hard-fought peace has come to the land of Staunton, war hero Sir Anthony Folville lies dead--but not due to his battle wounds. He has been poisoned by the medic treating him, a man supposedly paid by Queen Andred's heir to perform this dastardly act.
Now, with the prince imprisoned and accused of murder, his allies join forces to prove his innocence, including the fianc�e of Sir Anthony and the royal scholar Chrysafer. They have reason to suspect the Duke of Tilbury is behind the plot--and that the queen is his next target. As spies listen in the shadows and swords clash, there is one weapon that will sway events in the traitorous duke's favor: a legendary serpent's egg with clairvoyant powers. And only Chrysafer is able to sense its magic--and stop the carnage to come . . .
Description:
"A rousing tale of courtly intrigues and chivalrous honor" from the author of The Glass Magician (Charles de Lint, award-winning writer). Just as hard-fought peace has come to the land of Staunton, war hero Sir Anthony Folville lies dead--but not due to his battle wounds. He has been poisoned by the medic treating him, a man supposedly paid by Queen Andred's heir to perform this dastardly act. Now, with the prince imprisoned and accused of murder, his allies join forces to prove his innocence, including the fianc�e of Sir Anthony and the royal scholar Chrysafer. They have reason to suspect the Duke of Tilbury is behind the plot--and that the queen is his next target. As spies listen in the shadows and swords clash, there is one weapon that will sway events in the traitorous duke's favor: a legendary serpent's egg with clairvoyant powers. And only Chrysafer is able to sense its magic--and stop the carnage to come . . .