Scarlet Jewel — William L. Culbertson

In the world of the dragon-bound:After a long and distinguished career protecting the dragon-bound king and queen of Landly, General Scarlet finds himself languishing in retirement. On a winter holiday night, Estretta Vaughn appears at his door with a problem—her daughter is missing. Happy to help the attractive woman, Scarlet quickly finds the case is more than a simple disappearance. Estretta, a gifted Newham Institute professor, offers both help and a challenge. Their search turns up the name Burros Wiles, a member of Tazzelton's shadowy underworld. Both Scarlet and Estretta face swords, seduction, arson, and kidnapping. But Scarlet's greatest challenge lies in his own long-hidden fears.