Throne of Glass (Throne of Glass #0.1–0.5, 1–7)

by Sarah J. Maas

But not yet. Aelin turned to the left. Toward Aedion. And said quietly, but not weakly, “This has been yours from the day you were born, Prince Aedion.” Aedion went still as Aelin pushed back the gauzy sleeve of her gown, exposing her forearm. Aedion’s shoulders shook with the force of his tears. Aelin didn’t fight hers as she asked, lips wobbling, “Will you swear the blood oath to me?” Aedion just fell to his knees before her. Rowan silently handed her a dagger, but Aelin paused as she held it over her arm. “You fought for Terrasen when no one else would. Against all odds, beyond all hope, you fought for this kingdom. For me. For these people. Will you swear to continue to do so, for as long as you draw breath?” Aedion’s head bowed as he breathed, “Yes. In this life, and in all others, I will serve you. And Terrasen.” Aelin smiled at Aedion, at the other side to her fair coin, and sliced open her forearm before extending it to him. “Then drink, Prince. And be welcome.” Gently, Aedion took her arm and set his mouth to her wound. And when he withdrew, her blood on his lips, Aelin smiled down at him. “You said you wanted to swear it before the entire world,” she said so only he could hear. “Well, here you go.”