The Quest of Kadji — Lin Carter

Zarouk, aging warrior and grandfather to young Kadji, implored the boy to dethrone Prince Yakthodah, vile imposter-heir to the throne of the Dragon Emperor. On Haral, his faithful, black Feridoon pony, and with beautiful, redhaired Thyra at his side, Kadji rode East to vanquish his foe -- knowing full well that if he failed to decapitate Yakthodah, he would be branded coward...and worse!