Emperor Jahn of Columbyana needs a bride. Six suitable women are called to the capital city so he can make his choice, and the contest is underway. Unfortunately, someone doesn't want the candidates to reach the palace.General Merin trusts no one else to collect Bela Haythorne. He fought with the Turis during the war with Ciro, and knows their chieftain — and his daughter — all too well. He expects trouble. He doesn't expect to find himself married to a woman intended for the emperor.Bela never thought to see Merin again. She's happy with her life, her freedom, her magical sword. If the 22 days and nights required for the marriage dissolution ceremony don't go well, she might lose all three.