Kaab seeks out the services of a good forger before paying a visit to the Duchess Tremontaine. Diane, meanwhile, pays a visit to Highcombe House, the Tremontaine country estate. And at long last, Kaab and Diane face off in a drawing room duel where the weapon of choice is words. Welcome to Tremontaine, the prequel to Ellen Kushner’s beloved Riverside series that began with Swordspoint! A Duchess whose beauty is matched only by her cunning; her husband’s dangerous affair with a handsome scholar; a foreigner in a playground of swordplay and secrets; and a mathematical genius whose discoveries herald revolution—when long-buried truths threaten long-held deceptions, betrayal and treachery know no bounds. Mind your manners and enjoy the chocolate in a dance of sparkling wit and political intrigue. Written by: Ellen Kushner, Alaya Dawn Johnson, Malinda Lo, Joel Derfner, Racheline Maltese, Patty Bryant, Paul Witcover (guest author) Cover art by: Kathleen Jennings This episode continues the 13-part serial, Tremontaine, presented by Serial Box. This prequel to the cult classic Swordspoint is brought to you by the collaborative effort of a team of writers under the creative direction of Ellen Kushner herself. Join the dance of swordplay and scandal, week after week, on SerialBox.com And don’t forget to share the love! If you’re enjoying Tremontaine, help us get the word out by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter and Tumblr, and telling your friends about us! We’d also love to hear what you think so please give us a review! “Sharp blades and even sharper wits abound! Delicious new adventures await fans in this welcome return to the world of Swordspoint.” – Jacqueline Carey, New York Times Bestselling author of the Kushiel’s Legacy series “Lovely! Beneath a froth of silk and lace Tremontaine is finely muscled, rippling with skill and promise.” – Nicola Griffith, author of Hild “More Tremontaine stories? YESPLEASE. Tremontaine stories by some of my favorite, excellent writers? HELLA YESPLEASE. I can't wait to read them all! ” – N. K. Jemisin, author of The Fifth Kingdom “A pure delight full of sparkling characters that match equally dazzling wits and swords. If you've visited the world of Swordspoint before, you'll be delighted to return; if it's your first time, you'll be welcomed in style. I can't wait to read more myself!” – Naomi Novaik, author of Uprooted