A decade after the events of the first novella, Handry leads the Order of Cain, outcasts navigating a world threatened by new alien species and mysterious destruction. The story delves into themes of survival, adaptation, and the complex relationships between humans and the enigmatic creatures of a hostile planet.

"The Expert System's Champion" is a masterful sequel to Adrian Tchaikovsky's "The Expert System's Brother," expanding upon the fascinating world and characters introduced in the first novella. Set ten years after the events of the previous book, this installment follows Handry, now the leader of the outcasts known as the Order of Cain, as he navigates the challenges of a hostile alien environment and the complex relationships between the villages, the Order, and the mysterious Ancients.

One of the book's greatest strengths is Tchaikovsky's unparalleled world-building. He seamlessly blends elements of science fiction, horror, and fantasy to create a truly unique and immersive setting. The alien biosphere is both captivating and terrifying, with creatures and ecosystems that challenge the very nature of humanity's existence on this strange planet. Tchaikovsky's background as an entomologist shines through in his vivid descriptions of the bizarre and often unsettling life forms that inhabit this world, making it feel all the more real and dangerous.

The characters, particularly Handry and his sister Mellory, continue to be compelling and well-developed. Their bond and their roles in bridging the gap between the villages and the Order of Cain are central to the story, and their growth since the first book is evident. The introduction of new characters, such as the Champion Amorket, adds depth to the narrative and provides fresh perspectives on the world and its inhabitants.

Tchaikovsky's exploration of themes such as isolation, belonging, and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant. The parallels drawn between the struggles of the original colonists and those of Handry and his contemporaries serve to enrich the world's history and raise stakes for the protagonists.

The pacing of the novella is excellent, with Tchaikovsky balancing moments of intense action and horror with quieter, more introspective scenes. The story moves forward with purpose, revealing tantalizing pieces of the world's mysteries while keeping readers engaged and eager to learn more.

While some readers may find the abundance of strange alien biology and occasional info-dumping a bit overwhelming, these elements are essential to the story's atmosphere and the overall reading experience. Tchaikovsky's prose is crisp and evocative, bringing the world and its inhabitants to life in vivid detail.

In conclusion, "The Expert System's Champion" is a triumph of speculative fiction, showcasing Adrian Tchaikovsky's mastery of the craft. With its rich world-building, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes, this novella is a must-read for fans of the genre and a testament to Tchaikovsky's skill as a storyteller. Though it can be enjoyed as a standalone work, reading it in conjunction with "The Expert System's Brother" provides a more comprehensive and rewarding experience. One can only hope that Tchaikovsky will continue to explore this captivating universe in future installments.