*Sophia*

When I hear the Hybridians are within two days’ journey of the southern border, I ride out, despite Zeke’s protests.

By the time they reach the border, I am there to receive them.

They are a skinny, bedraggled lot at first glance. My heart hurts for the children whose bones are showing.

A tall man with pointed ears approaches me. I ascertain that he is a vampire/fae half-breed.

“Princess Sophia Brodcraz?” he asks, eyeing me up and down.

“Yes,” I say, keeping any fear I might be feeling out of my voice. Vampire/fae half-breeds are supposed to be the most dangerous of all creatures. “With whom do I have...