For one thing, the author has a gift for creating compelling characters, whose motives are far from straightforward. Readers uneasy about entering such an intricate tale so late, however, shouldn't hesitate. Valraven's wife, Varencienne, also finds her role changing in unpredictable ways. Valraven (aka Lord Palindrake), head of the family once allied with the sea dragons, must first decide whether he wants to become the True King then he must prove that he is worthy. At the same time, personal cravings and sexual desires agitate members of the empire's powerful families, while the rival dragon-gods who represent elements of nature contend through their human avatars. The old emperor's death gives shadowy religious and political cabals a chance to maneuver for power. Published first in 2001, ‘The Way of Light’ concludes Storm Constantine’s Magravandias trilogy, a gripping epic fantasy series of intrigue, forbidden desire and magic.įull of vivid and complex storytelling, this richly imagined, humane novel concludes the saga of the Magravandian Empire that began with Sea Dragon Heir and The Crown of Silence. While shadowy figures plot and scheme to secure the best result for themselves, Valraven and his family must face perils both physical and spiritual to reclaim their lost heritage and harness the power of Foy, the sea dragon queen, once more. The elemental dragon spirits of old are waking from their timeless sleep, and the eternal conflict between them and Madragore, god of the Magravandians, will be played out through human avatars. While Valraven devotes himself to keeping order in Magrast in the run-up to Gastern’s coronation, his wife Varencienne and his daughter Ellony are kidnapped by the magus Taropat and his apprentice Shan, who are opposed to either Valraven or any of the Malagashes taking the throne.Īs the new emperor goes slowly insane, tormented by horrific visions, Valraven is forced to face up to the dreams that others have invested in him. He is the Sea Dragon Heir of mystical Caradore, the only man in power fit to wear the ancient Crown of Silence that embodies all the best qualities of a true king.

But other people, in secret cabals across the world, have different ideas, and see Valraven as the obvious champion to overthrow the rule of the decadent Malagashes. Valraven Palindrake, Dragon Lord of the imperial army, concerned only with keeping his family safe in these precarious times, has vowed to support Gastern. His warring sons wait in the shadows to fight for the throne against the legitimate heir, Prince Gastern. In the Magravandian capital of Magrast, the emperor, Leonid, lies dying. They who walk the way of light cast a shadow.

The Way of Light by Storm Constantine