The 10th Province of Jaryar

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.