Penelope Wallace

The 10th Province of Jaryar Penelope Wallace

To the hall with six flames

Call the great of the nine

For an heir to the king.

They will seek for a sign.




Who should rule the powerful land of Jaryar when its childless king dies? Instead of preparing for war, the two contenders agree to that extraordinary thing, an election.




"A contest? A duel? A game of chess?"

"Yes, perhaps. A fair game."




Fifty-one high-ranking men and women will hear the arguments, and then choose between Queen Nerranya of Marod and Duke Haras of Vard.




So everyone comes to the peaceful city of Vach-roysh, capital of the land that gave up its independence long ago - the Tenth Province of Jaryar.




They bring their prejudice and ambition, bribery and blackmail - and the prophecy uttered by a dying woman.




And murder. For this game is far from fair.




Bowing down to be raised

For the Dream, and God's law -

But the sheep, they all wait

For mild peace or grim war.