The Divine Death of Jirella Martigore

In this horror novelette Jirella is a fifteen-year-old novice at a convent, when the Black Pope (her uncle) summons her to meet him. The pious girl can only expect the worst as punishment for her sins. But Pope Shanatu welcomes her and tells her she is to be the next Pope.

Naive at first, Jirella must learn the intrigues and politics of the court quickly as the powerful people surrounding her want to block her ascension by killing her. Who can she trust as they pass her around for the preparation ceremonies and tests? In the end, she may have to give up her very nature, to complete her unexpected calling.