Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass, #5)

by Sarah J. Maas

“Do you know what it is you carry, Elide?” “Y-yes, Majesty.” Turquoise eyes, haunted and weary, lifted to her own. Then slid to Lorcan. “Why didn’t you take it?” The voice was hollow and hard. Elide suspected she’d be lucky if it was never used on her. Lorcan met her gaze without flinching. “It wasn’t mine to take.” Aelin now glanced between them, seeing too much. And there was no warmth on the queen’s face, but she said to Lorcan, “Thank you—for bringing her to me.” The others seemed to be trying not to look too shocked at the words. But Aelin turned to Manon. “I lay claim to her. Witch-blood in her veins or no, she is Lady of Perranth, and she is mine.” Gold eyes gleamed with the thrill of challenge. “And if I claim her for the Blackbeaks?” “Blackbeaks—or the Crochans?” Aelin purred. Elide blinked. Manon—and the Crochans? What was the Wing Leader doing here? Where was Abraxos? The witch said, “Careful, Majesty. With your power reduced to embers, you’ll have to fight me the old-fashioned way again.” That dangerous grin returned. “You know, I’ve been hoping for round two.”