The Bastard King

In "The Bastard King," young Lanius, the illegitimate son of King Mergus, grapples with ruling Avornis amidst regents' control and the looming threat of the Banished One, an immortal entity invading dreams. As he seeks to reclaim the lost Scepter of Mercy, Lanius must partner with Grus, a daring captain whose destiny may pose a challenge to Lanius's own. This epic fantasy by Harry Turtledove weaves a tale of courage, action, and complex characters, set against a backdrop of magical conflict and deep-rooted legacy.