Kingdom of Ash

sobbed as she had embraced the healers, the
Healer on High, one last time. And then
sobbed into her husband’s arms for a good
while after that.
Then Ansel of Briarcliff, with what
remained of her men. She and Aelin had
traded taunts, then laughed, and then cried,
holding each other. Another bond that would
not be so easily broken despite the distance.
The Silent Assassins left next, Ilias smiling
at Aelin as he rode off.
Then Prince Galan, whose ships remained
under the watch of Ravi and Sol in Suria and
who would ride there before departing to
Wendlyn. He had embraced Aedion, then
clasped Rowan’s hand before turning to Aelin.
His wife, his mate, his queen had said to
the prince, “You came when I asked. You
came without knowing any of us. I know I’ve
already said it, but I will be forever grateful.”