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Zusatztext Praise for the Valdemar anthologies: “Fans of Lackey’s epic Valdemar series will devour this superb anthology. Of the thirteen stories included, there is no weak link—an attribute exceedingly rare in collections of this sort. Highly recommended .” —The Barnes & Noble Review “Lackey’s delightful world of magic is inhabited by strong and believable men, women, and creatures , the most enchanting being the gryphons.” — Publishers Weekly “ Exceedingly well done , it helps keep readers unconfused while wandering the enormous fictional terrain the Valdemar oeuvre covers.” — Booklist “Each story brings unique ideas that carry on the fantastical elements from the world created by Lackey. Fans new and old will step into a literary world that’s unlike any other and will be sucked into tales that will take them on wondrous journeys.” — RT Reviews Informationen zum Autor Mercedes Lackey Klappentext This thirteenth anthology of short stories set in the beloved Valdemar universe features tales by debut and established authors and a brand-new story from Lackey herself. The Heralds of Valdemar are the kingdom's ancient order of protectors. They are drawn from all across the land, from all walks of life, and at all ages--and all are Gifted with abilities beyond those of normal men and women. They are Mindspeakers, FarSeers, Empaths, ForeSeers, Firestarters, FarSpeakers, and more. These inborn talents--combined with training as emissaries, spies, judges, diplomats, scouts, counselors, warriors, and more--make them indispensable to their monarch and realm. Sought and Chosen by mysterious horse-like Companions, they are bonded for life to these telepathic, enigmatic creatures. The Heralds of Valdemar and their Companions ride circuit throughout the kingdom, protecting the peace and, when necessary, defending their land and monarch. Now, twenty-three authors ride with Mercedes Lackey to her magical land of Valdemar, adding their own unique voices to the Heralds, Bards, Healers, and other heroes of this beloved fantasy realm.One Town at a Time Jennifer Brozek All trade in the marketplace had ceased. All eyes were turned to the Herald and the two merchant farmers he questioned. Glad she wasn't in the spotlight, Astrid paid attention as well. It was the only thing she could do as an outlander rope and string merchant. Entertainment, even of the tense variety, was scarce in the Holderkin lands. No one wanted to miss the excitement. "One and all will see who is telling the truth and who is not," Herald Kalen said, his voice loud enough to carry throughout the marketplace. The two merchant farmers, one local, one not, stood before the Herald, flanked by a couple of burly Holderkin men. They were rougher toward the outlander than their own man, but they held both fast nonetheless as the Herald began the Truth Spell. Bowing his head, the Herald chanted half under his breath. He repeated the words-the cadence told careful listeners that he repeated it nine times. As he ended the chant and raised his head, a light blue glow settled about the heads and shoulders of both men. As one, the men acting as guards took an involuntary step backward as soon as the blue glow appeared. Several spectators made warding signs against evil. "Now," Herald Kalen said, pointing to the outlander, "Is it true that the lamb is yours?" "Yes, Herald." The merchant farmer nodded vigorously. "I saw my farm's mark on its wool-faint but there. Then he shaved the wool, erasing it. He m-m-m . . ." The farmer stopped trying to force the lie and sighed. "The lamb had been left behind because of a lame foot. It wasn't where I left it when I went back. I thought a wolf had gotten it. I had given up on it." Turning to the Holderkin...
