Rule of Wolves (King of Scars, #2)

by Leigh Bardugo

“Men who see too much have a way of losing their eyes.” “And queens who trust too little have a way of losing their thrones.”

Of course, Nikolai was the liar here. But kings did what they wished; bastards did what they must.

The Grisha vows were very different. “We are soldiers,” David recited, low and shaky. He was unused to speaking in front of a crowd. “I will march with you in times of war. I will rest with you in times of peace. I will forever be the weapon in your hand, the fighter at your side, the friend who awaits your return.” His voice grew stronger and louder with every word. “I have seen your face in the making at the heart of the world and there is no one more beloved, Genya Safin, brave and unbreakable.”

The demon opened its fanged mouth, but it was Nikolai’s rage that rang out in its roar—for what had been done to his people, his home.

Maybe, thought Zoya. Or maybe Kaz was like Nikolai, a boy with an unquiet mind, a man in perpetual need of challenge.

“The Suli never forget their own, General Nazyalensky. Just like crows.”

You are strong enough to survive the fall. They were plummeting toward the sea. Zoya felt Genya’s arms around her, Liliyana holding her tight. She felt Nikolai’s presence beside her and Juris’ sword in her hands. With a wild, gasping breath, she felt her wings unfurl.

But she was going to let Nina go. Nina Zenik was a soldier. Zoya had trained her well. And she had the right to choose her own path.

We are the dragon and this is our time.

“I’ll tell you a thousand stories, my love. We’ll write the new endings, one by one.”

I found my way to who I was meant to be through the pain I endured. I’m stronger for it.”

Nikolai followed his queen through the mountains and knew hope would lead them home.