The ocean waves shine like glittering diamonds. If only the sun could burn away the smell of rotting fish and seaweed, too. Yesterday I chose this path, and now I stand with Hans and Dalen on the cliffside by the secret tunnel door, certain of—and terrified by—what I must do. They insisted on coming with me, and I can’t deny I’m grateful not to be alone. Stump hovers by the tunnel; he doesn’t seem to like being so close to the cliff. I place a hand on Dalen’s arm. “I want you to know that after this I’ll do whatever I can to protect you and the rest of the hybrids. You and your family deserve to live without fear. Maybe, when I’m queen, you can live here? I know King Oliver and Bryre would also help to keep you safe from people like the mercenaries. And you could help the citizens renew their fields in half the time.” Dalen’s eyes gleam. “No more hiding? I rather like the sound of that. The others may require more convincing.” “Well, they are in need of a new home, after all,”
