The Scarab Path

The Empress Seda is already regaining control over her renegade Imperial cities. After all, she draws strength from something far more sinsiter than armies or war machines. Only her consort, former spymaster Thalric, knows the truth behind her power. And when assassins come for him, he finds his life and loyalties under threat once more. Both Cheerwell and Thalric are drawn to the ancient city of Khanaphes, beyond the Nem desert. But a terrible secret lies entombed beneath its stones...