The greatest changes in history have come when people were able to shake off what others told them to do.

You’ll have your own superhero club before you know it.

Staring into the mirror, I was surprised to see a haunted look in my brown eyes. There was pain there, pain and loss that even the nicest dress and makeup couldn't hide.

You know, I might miss some of your witticisms when you’re gone, but one thing I won’t miss? Your overwhelming sense of melodrama and despair. It’s too much even for me.

Jill was tall and slim, like most Moroi. With that figure came a modest chest. Angeline's chest...was not so modest.

Life and death were so unpredictable. So close to each other. We existed moment to moment, never knowing who would be the next to leave this world.

Oh God," I said. "I'm Zmey's daughter. Zmey junior. Zmeyette, even.