Lyra learned about the hybrids by accident.

It was not announced. Not presented to her as a problem to solve or a mercy to grant. No elder stood before her with a bowed head and confessed. The Frostlands did not apologize for what they buried.

She found them because she insisted on knowing her duties.

The morning after the healer’s examination, Lyra dressed herself without ceremony and left the Alpha wing before sunrise. It was still very early, and the snow was still on the steps with no ...