a powerful vampire and one of Copsewealds respected figures. Married Theren Vaelen, an elven scholar, was a quiet and thoughtful man whose union with Lady Selantria Blackwood broke centuries of tradition. Rather than waiting for a mortal child to come of age and earn their transformation, Selantria bore a dhampir daughter—an act considered improper and indulgent among vampire society. But Selantria did not care for their judgment. She had her reasons, and Ashlyn Blackwood was raised proudly.