We’re ready to check in with the Thousand Worlds in anticipation of Yoon Ha Lee’s Tiger Honor. Just be careful if you haven’t read Dragon Pearl yet. Spoilers ahead!
When we last left Juhwang Hwan, the traitorous captain’s evil plans were thwarted by Kim Min the fox spirit, and he lost control over the legendary Dragon Pearl. Since then he’s been taking it easy, reflecting on his motives, and realizing there’s more to life than endless warfare.
Just kidding. He’s totally out for revenge.
A Tiger Doesn’t Change Its Stripes
For those who need a refresher on just how dangerous Hwan is, his abilities as an adult white tiger spirit make him one of the deadliest apex predators in the galaxy. In addition to his enhanced strength and senses, Hwan is also a master manipulator and will frequently either blackmail or threaten people to get them on his side. As a tiger spirit, he can detect when his opponents are about to use magic, most notably the gumiho fox spirits and their pesky charm spells. In short, he’s a force to be reckoned with. As for how a thirteen-year-old girl was able to get the jump on him a few years ago . . . Well, we all have bad days every once in a while.
Fox on the Run
Hwan was once a legendary battle cruiser captain—before he became obsessed with acquiring the Dragon Pearl and wielding it as a weapon. Eventually, he was defeated by Kim Min along with a company of ghosts on the Fourth Colony. Pretty embarrassing, if you ask us. But this first defeat wasn’t enough to deter Hwan. With Min currently aboard the battle cruiser Haetae, it’s long past time to set new plans in motion. Good thing Hwan has someone on the inside . . .
Family First
The Space Forces’ newest cadet is the young and idealistic member of the Juhwang Clan, Sebin. Did we mention that Hwan also happens to be Sebin’s uncle? The good: Sebin completely idolizes Hwan and wants to be like him when they grow up. The bad: Sebin is also completely loyal to the Space Forces and has no idea that Hwan is seeking the Dragon Pearl. Shouldn’t be too hard to convince the young tiger spirit to abandon their post and join the dark side, though. Everyone knows the bad guys have more fun.
Good Help is Hard to Find
Even if Sebin says no, Hwan still has a powerful cadre of allies at his beck and call. Every good captain needs a crew, after all. This time around, Hwan has partnered with Sena, a Shaman capable of defeating gumiho, along with Shield, a Sapsali dog with the power to counter spirits and ghosts. To round out the team, Hwan has hired a group of mercenary outcasts from the Sun Clans, who have an ax to grind with the Thousand Worlds Space Forces. Naturally, none of these people can be completely trusted. Not even the dog. Doesn’t matter how many treats you give him. Be sure to watch your back.
Eager to learn more about Captain Hwan’s return? Be sure to pick up Tiger Honor, on sale January 4!
