Mercedes Lackey's very first novel, Arrows of the Queen, introduced readers to the magical land of Valdemar. In this ancient realm, beset by war and internal conflicts, justice is dispensed by an elite force -- the legendary Heralds. These unusual men and women, "chosen" from all corners of the kingdom by their mysterious horselike Companions, undergo a rigorous training, and follow a rigid code of honor. Bonded for life with their Companions, the Heralds endeavor to keep the peace and, if necessary, defend their country in the name of their monarch.

Now Mickey Zucker Reichert, Larry Dixon, Tanya Huff, Michelle Sagara and others add their own special chapters to the history of Valdemar. Meet with a Herald-assassin known only to the Queen... learn why in Karse, a question can be deadlier than any sword... and discover how for two lifebonded Heralds, justice prevails over honor, in eighteen original stories of valor and magic, including three co-authored by Mercedes Lackey herself.

Contents:

• Sunlancer by Philip Austin and Mercedes Lackey
• The Demon's Denn by Tanya Huff
• Ironrose by Larry Dixon and Mel. White
• Babysitter by Josepha Sherman
• The Salamander by Richard Lee Byers
• A Child's Adventures by Janni Lee Simner
• Blood Ties by Stephanie Shaver
• ... Another Sucessful Experiment by Lawrence Schimel
• Choice by Michelle Sagara
• Songs of Valdemar by Kristin Schwengel
• The School Up the Hill by Elisabeth Waters
• Chance by Mark Shepherd
• Sword of Ice by Mercedes Lackey and John Yezeguielian
• In the Forest of Sorrows by John Helfers
• Vkandis' Own by Ben Ohlander
• A Herald's Honor by Mickey Zucker Reichert
• A Song for No One's Mourning by Gary Braunbeck
• Blue Heard by Philip Austin and Mercedes Lackey