Fantasy YA about a citadel that has older seers or priests but they are dangerous and control the city. Read pre 2002.

[Amanda]

I read this in high school. But the rulers of the land are high priests in a citadel and they are dangerous and ruthless. I’m pretty sure the main character either is destined to be an apprentice priest or goes in as a spy. I can’t quite remember. The cover has orange/red tones. Pretty sure the main character is a male, but may have a female helper/side kick.