Kingdom of Ash

been yours from the day you were born,
Prince Aedion.”
Aedion went still as Aelin pushed back the
gauzy sleeve of her gown, exposing her
forearm.
Aedion’s shoulders shook with the force of
his tears.
Aelin didn’t fight hers as she asked, lips
wobbling, “Will you swear the blood oath to
me?”
Aedion just fell to his knees before her.
Rowan silently handed her a dagger, but
Aelin paused as she held it over her arm. “You
fought for Terrasen when no one else would.
Against all odds, beyond all hope, you fought
for this kingdom. For me. For these people.
Will you swear to continue to do so, for as
long as you draw breath?”
Aedion’s head bowed as he breathed, “Yes.
In this life, and in all others, I will serve you.