Sophos, revisited

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I know we've discussed this before, but I was rereading a bit and wondered about the future of Sophos, the missing heir. I think he's going to return in future books. Here's why.
( From KoA )

And there are reassuring hints from ( The Thief. )

Do you think Sophos might have had a good fencing instructor after Pol died? If he is still alive, why has he remained hidden? Could his knowledge of tree classification and identifying mountain ranges ensure his survival? Is there hope for the heir of Sounis, and for Helen's happiness? *melodrama/angst*