For a moment, Rowan recalled his last words to Dorian before he’d sent the king to shield his own line of ships. They were beyond apologies. Aelin would either return or—he didn’t let himself consider the alternative. But they could buy her as much time as possible. Try to fight their way out—for her, and the future of this armada. Dorian’s face had revealed the same thoughts as he clasped hands with him and said quietly, “It is not such a hard thing, is it—to die for your friends.” Rowan didn’t bother insisting they were going to live through this. The king had been tutored in warfare, even
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