Swordplay and stolen kisses keep the blood pumping and flowing in the new installment of Tremontaine, the online episodic series set in Ellen Kushner's beloved Riverside universe.

With Ben murdered, Tess needs a new protector... and Kaab, crushing hard, is determined to screen all applicants at swordpoint. Micah struggles to make her numbers come out right. And on the Hill, Diane gives Will his marching orders for the next Council meeting, on which the fate of the Tremontaine fortune hinges, and dispatches a dangerous servant to Riverside.

This episode is brought to you by Alaya Dawn Johnson, whose numbers always come out right.

The Dagger and the Sword 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.