The Downfall Matrix

Synopsis

From the back cover of the DAW Books first edition: The bringer of change - As a result of illegal experimentation, the Choyan Pilot, Palaton, and the Earth human, Rand, are inextricably linked when Palaton's mind powers are transferred to the young human. It is supposed to be only a temporary measure, a way of purifying the mind energies and saving Palaton from the degenerative nerve disease which is the price that all the "gifted" eventually must pay. But when those who know the way to return Palaton's power to him are destroyed by an alien attack upon their hidden base, Choyan and human must carry on the charade that Palaton retains his abilities until they find a way for him to reclaim what he has lost. But as heir to the Emperor of Cho, Palaton has many enemies - perhaps including the Emperor himself. And when circumstances force Palaton to journey where Rand cannot follow, the young human falls prey to those who would use him for their own ends, hailing him as a being out of legend - the Bringer f Change, whose presence signals either the dawning of a new age, or Cho's descent into the final Chaos...