“But now you are here, and have seen. Now you comprehend the cost. To forge the Lock anew, to put the three keys back in the gate …” A mark glowed on Aelin’s brow, heating her skin. The bastard mark of Brannon. The mark of the nameless. “Mala’s blood must be spent—your power must be spent. Every drop, of magic, of blood. You are the cost—to make a new Lock, and seal the keys into the gate. To make the Wyrdgate whole.” Aelin said softly, “I know.” She had known for some time now. Had been preparing for it as best she could. Preparing things for the others. Aelin said to the queen, “I have two
...more
