The Pirate King

The Pirate King, published in 2008, is the second novel in R. A. Salvatore's Transitions series. The story centers on Captain Deudermont and his crew, who aim to liberate Luskan from the corrupt Arcane Brotherhood and the lich Arklem Greeth. Drizzt Do'Urden and Regis become involved in the struggle. Deudermont, after a conversation with a captured pirate and a meeting with Lord Brambleberry in Waterdeep, decides to confront Arklem Greeth.

Meanwhile, Drizzt and Regis travel toward Icewind Dale to check on Wulfgar, stopping in Longsaddle for a debate on crime and punishment before joining Deudermont in Luskan. The conflict presents a moral dilemma: risk destroying the city to improve it, or accept its current stability under immoral rule. After battles tear Luskan apart, Arklem Greeth destroys the Hosttower, killing many citizens. Drizzt and Regis then continue to Icewind Dale, where they find Wulfgar living in a cave.

Back in Luskan, Deudermont attempts to rebuild, but the High Captains turn the people against him, leading to civil war. In the final battle, Deudermont dies, the Sea Sprite sinks, and the High Captains regain control. Drizzt and Regis leave with the surviving crew. The novel reached number eight on The New York Times bestseller list on November 2, 2008.