When the Emperor Dies - 1st Edition/1st Printing

New York: Random House. Fine in Fine dust jacket. 1981. First Edition; First Printing. 1/4 Cloth. 0394514580 . A barely edgeworn first Printing of the First Edition in otherwise Fine condition housed in a Fine dust-jacket; The story follows two friends, Jorgen and Markus, as they navigate the perils of life in the Imperial Court in the days leading up to the death of the Emperor. Jorgen is a skilled artist and Markus is a talented musician, but they must hide their skills if they want to stay alive. The court is a dangerous place, with factions vying (truncated) for power and enemies lurking in the shadows. As the Emperor's health declines, the courtiers start to turn on each other, and Jorgen and Markus must choose who to trust. The story culminates in a dramatic battle for the throne, and Jorgen and Markus must choose between their friendship and their own survival.; 8vo; 393 pages . (Inventory #: 123164)