The Eye of Strife — Dave Duncan

A group of strangers share tales of epic fantasy adventures as they confess what they know about a missing gem -- or else risk the wrath of an angry god.

Legend has it that Quarn Axeswinger led a rebellion against the king but lost his sight in battle. The god Strife appeared and bestowed upon Quarn a jewel that gave him a mysterious new power. The man only had to promise to destroy any who defied him and spare those who submit. Quarn did . . . and went on to build a massive empire that continued to grow until after his death. 

However, this jewel, the Eye of Strife, disappeared a thousand years ago, and now Strife would like it back . . .

Someone has committed a terrible crime. To find out who, the high priest of Strife summons a group of strangers to the temple to share everything they know about the jewel. What follows is an evening of tales full of adventure, romance, and danger. Of course, not all the suspects are telling the truth, and at least one of them is guilty -- and they will be punished.

Praise for Dave Duncan 

“Dave Duncan knows how to spin a ripping good yarn.” -- SFReviews.net
“Duncan is an exceedingly finished stylist and a master of world building and characterizations.” -- Booklist