The Heir of Sea and Fire (1977), the middle work of McKillip's trilogy about the Riddle-master focuses on a female figure. The protagonist is Raederle, Morgon's fiancee, a strong, capable, independent woman. The title refers specifically to her ability to manipulate both water and fire as elements, even as Morgon is a master of earth and air. When Morgon disappears on his journey to find the High One, Raederle sets out to find him, accompanied by his young sister, Tristan, and Lyra, daughter of the woman ruler of a neighboring realm. The women prove themselves capable in terms of courage and pragmatic skills, and they are all effective characterizations. Raederle is vividly drawn, with an appealing blend of diffidence and assertiveness, doubt and determination. Lyra, a professional bodyguard, wants to solve all problems by throwing a spear at them. Her mother, a political ruler, is at once...