Kingdom of Ash (Throne of Glass, #7)

by Sarah J. Maas

He took a long breath. Another one. “Please,” he breathed. “Please help me save my friends. Help me make it right.” It was all he really had left—this task. Gavin again watched him, weighed him. Dorian withstood it. Let him read whatever truth was written on his soul. Pain clouded the king’s face. Pain, and regret, as Gavin finally said, “The key is at Morath.” Dorian’s mouth went dry. “Where in Morath?” “I don’t know.” Dorian believed him. The raw dread in Gavin’s eyes confirmed it. The ancient king nodded to Damaris. “That sword is not ornamental. Let it guide you, if you cannot trust yourself.” “It really tells the truth?” “It was blessed by the All-Seeing One himself, after I swore myself to him.” Gavin shrugged, a half-tamed gesture. As if the man had never really left the wilds of Adarlan where he’d risen from war leader to High King. “You’ll still have to learn for yourself what is truth and what is lie.” “But Damaris will help me find the key at Morath?” To break into Erawan’s stronghold, where all those collars were made … Gavin’s mouth tightened. “I cannot say. But I will tell you this: do not venture toward Morath just yet. Until you are ready.” “I’m ready now.” A fool’s lie. Gavin knew it, too. It was an effort not to touch his neck, the pale band forever marring his skin. “Morath is no mere keep,” Gavin said. “It is a hell, and it is not kind to reckless young men.” Dorian stiffened, but Gavin went on, “You will know when you are truly ready. Remain at this ca...