The King is a widower. The Queen died eight years ago, leaving behind her husband and five children. There are fables concerning a sixth child—a daughter so repulsive in appearance that no one can bear to look at her. People love to hate her, and they call her The Ugly Princess, but no one who's honest can claim they've ever seen her.
Hale and his young cousin Frayda are both gifted in magic and have no time for such rumors. They stay busy tending to their small business, using their magical abilities to help sick and injured animals. Hale is determined to teach Frayda to use her gifts for good, and not for selfish gain, as selfish motives lead to Dark Magic.
In spite of their best efforts, they are ambushed one night by an indescribable evil that seems to be devoid of life and yet maliciously intelligent. It is as surprised by them as they are by it, and through perseverance, rather than skill, Hale and Frayda manage to force it back into the magical dimensions it seems to inhabit.
Not content to leave them alone, The Empty Darkness learns from each subsequent encounter, as do Hale and Frayda, and eventually leads them to the Palace in what seems to be a routine house-call for the King's youngest daughter.
Having earned his favor, the King invites them inside, where they are surprised by a girl in a veil who calls the King “Daddy” before running out of sight. Have Hale and Frayda seen living proof of The Ugly Princess? If so, how is it that no one else knows she really exists?
(recommended for ages 12 and up. 240,000 words)
