This is the end, isn’t it? I murmured, darkness creeping across my vision. I go now. And you—you remain. It was inevitable, the Nightmare said, his voice louder and louder. This is your degeneration, Elspeth Spindle. Nothing comes free. The air around me thinned. I blinked, trying to stave off the darkness, like a child fighting sleep. Promise me you’ll help Ravyn. Promise me you’ll save Emory. It’s time, dear one, he purred, lulling me to rest. Promise! He sighed. I promise to help the Yews in all their endeavors.
