Peregrine: Primus, (Paperback)

In a fantastic, imaginary version of Eastern Europe during the decline of the Roman Empire in the sixth century, Peregrine, an illegitimate son of the king of Sapodilla, is sent into exile--his country's traditional way of helping clear the way for the succession of the legitimate heir. Accompanying him on his quest to seek his fortune is the eccentric sorcerer Appledore and the squire Claud, who conceals a keen intelligence under a pose of feeblemindedness. The three encounter the myriad perils of the era, particularly the many belligerently feuding primitive Christian sects, the roving imperial armies, surprisingly prurient vestal virgins, and wandering barbarian hordes, including what one critic calls "the jolliest Hun to ever pillage the countryside."[