“Wizard Weather,” a pivotal installment in the Sacred Band of Stepsons series, first serialized in Thieves’ World in 1982 and later included in the “Tempus” anthology (1987), introduces a diverse cast of characters and explores themes of power, destiny, and loyalty. At its core are Nikodemos, known as Stealth, a skilled Bandaran adept of maat; Jihan, the enigmatic Froth Daughter; and Tempus, leader of the Sacred Band of Stepsons, a renowned mercenary force bound by oath and camaraderie. The narrative unfolds in the city of Sanctuary, where the arrival of Askelon of Meridian, lord of dreams, and Jihan disrupts the fragile peace. Their presence heralds an ominous mist that foretells significant upheaval, impacting not only the mortal realm but also the divine.
Central to the conflict is the convergence of mortal and immortal powers. Askelon gifts Nikodemos with a dream-forged panoply, enhancing his abilities and binding him deeper to the unfolding events. Tempus, meanwhile, finds himself entangled in a complex web of alliances and rivalries, navigating the intricate politics of Sanctuary alongside his comrades in the Sacred Band. The involvement of Jihan, whose otherworldly origins and abilities transcend human understanding, adds a layer of mystical intrigue to the unfolding events. Throughout the narrative, the Sacred Band faces perilous challenges and tragic losses, underscoring the high stakes of their endeavors.
The story’s pivotal events include Tempus’ sister joining forces with Askelon, merging mortal and immortal ambitions in a bid for supremacy. The Froth Daughter, with her ethereal aid, bolsters the Sacred Band’s efforts, tipping the balance in their favor amidst relentless opposition. Tragic sacrifices within the Sacred Band resonate through subsequent stories, showcasing the enduring impact of their struggle against forces that span beyond mortal comprehension. As the narrative unfolds, the gods themselves are drawn into the conflict, their celestial maneuvers mirroring the mortal strife below, thereby setting the stage for future confrontations that shape the fate of Sanctuary and its inhabitants.
“Wizard Weather” thus serves as a cornerstone in the Sacred Band of Stepsons series, blending elements of fantasy and myth with intricate character dynamics and a richly imagined world. Through its exploration of divine intervention, mortal ambition, and the enduring bonds of brotherhood, the novel captures the essence of epic fantasy while propelling its characters toward destinies intertwined with the very fabric of existence itself.
