Kingdom of Ash

But they did not behead. Did not sever and
finish the job.
Not for those with the black rings, or black
collars.
Those whom the healers might yet save.
Tomorrow. That would come tomorrow.
The moon had reached its peak when they
wordlessly decided that they had seen enough
to determine Erawan’s army would never rise
again. When the ruks, Crochans, and rebel
Ironteeth had vanished, chasing the last of the
aerial legion into the night.
Then Aelin turned toward the southern gate
to Orynth.
As if in answer, it groaned open to meet
her.
Two arms flung wide.
Aelin looked to Rowan, their crowns of
flame still burning, undimmed. Took his hand.
Heart thundering through every bone in her