Two to the Fifth (Xanth, No. 32)

The future of Xanth is in frightful peril. A powerful magical bird named Ragna Roc has embarked on a campaign to become absolute ruler of that mystical realm. Those who swear loyalty to him are spared. The rest have simply disappeared. So powerful are Ragnas sorceries that even the Good Magician Humfrey dares not confront him directly. Instead he enlists Cyrus the Cyborg a handsome half-human playwright with little knowledge of the world in a stealthy subterfuge. Cyrus must assemble a troupe of traveling players to attract Ragnas interest. And hidden in disguise among the bevy of beautiful young actresses are the young princesses Melody Harmony and Rhythm whose magics might just be a match for the evil bird. But Ragna has planted a spy in the midst of the troupe one who knows their deepest secrets including the true nature of Cyruss forbidden love for one of the young princesses. Only a mysterious child called Kadence and a cryptic clue Two to the Fifth" may give the companions the edge they need to defeat Ragnas dictatorial dreams. Brimming with passion and merriment drama and deception Piers Anthonys thirty-second Xanth fantasy is a pun-packed performance sure to provoke applause and ovations from the series myriad fans.