Kingdom of Ash

body, Aelin took a step toward the gate.
Toward Orynth. Toward home.
Lorcan and Fenrys fell into step behind
them. The latter’s wounds still leaked down
his face, but he had refused Aelin and
Rowan’s offers to heal him. Had said he
wanted a reminder. They hadn’t dared to ask
of what—not yet.
Aelin lifted her chin high, shoulders
squaring as they neared the archway.
Soldiers already lined either side.
Not the khagan’s soldiers, but men and
women in Terrasen armor. And civilians
amongst them, too—awe and joy in their
faces.
Aelin looked at the threshold of the gate.
At the ancient, familiar stones, now caked in
blood and gore.
She sent a whisper of flame skittering over
them. The last dregs of her power.