A Jest and a Vengeance

Published in 1929, 'A Jest and a Vengeance' by E. Hoffmann Price is a fantasy short story that blends dark humor with themes of revenge. The narrative follows Sultan Schamas ad Din of Angor-lana, who, after surviving an assassination attempt by his treacherous nephew Maksoud, seeks vengeance with the help of mystical forces in the haunted ruins of Atlânaat. The story explores the complexities of power, betrayal, and poetic justice as the sultan devises a clever punishment that reflects the folly of ambition. This work is notable for its unique combination of fantasy elements and political intrigue.