Forced to watch the torture and execution of Myrren, an accused witch, by the self-centered, calculating, and cruel Celimus, the new king, Wyl Thirsk's sympathy for the victim leads her to bequeath him an unexpected gift, which could hold the key to stopping Celimus's brutal depradations and political machinations and preserving his own life and the honor of his country. Original. 30,000 first printing.