RHY’S BETRAYALThe soldiers didn't touch me at first. They stood in a circle, their spears pointed at my chest, their faces hidden behind steel visors. I could hear my own breathing, loud and shaky. I looked around for a familiar face, someone who might show a flicker of kindness, but there was nothing but cold metal.

"Move!" a voice barked.

The circle of men parted, and for a heartbeat, I hoped it was Demetrius. I hoped he would come charging through on his horse, angry but relieved, and pull ...