Tekumel Series by M.A.R. Barker

Tékumel is a distant world populated by both humans and aliens, who have built a vast and intricate civilization over thousands of years. Ruled by the upper clans of the land, the planet's culture is based upon the teachings of gods and demons, upon the ways and wiles of alien races, and upon the layered traditions of monarchs ancient and current. Tékumel is an exquisitely detailed world where surprise and adventure are as natural as night and day... moreTékumel is a distant world populated by both humans and aliens, who have built a vast and intricate civilization over thousands of years. Ruled by the upper clans of the land, the planet's culture is based upon the teachings of gods and demons, upon the ways and wiles of alien races, and upon the layered traditions of monarchs ancient and current. Tékumel is an exquisitely detailed world where surprise and adventure are as natural as night and day.The Man of Gold is the first novel based on the TEKUMEL: EMPIRE OF THE PETAL THRONE RPG. Follow the quest of Harsan, acolyte of the temple of Thumis, as he ventures forth to seek a forgotten empire's super weapon known only as the Man of Gold. less

A commander of the Petal Throne, the ruling empire of Tekumel, and his captive, an enemy female officer carrying a powerful ancient weapon, join forces unwillingly to escape uncharted subterranean passages inhabited by horrific monsters.