Healer to the Ash King (Dark Rulers, #5)

by Rebecca F. Kenney

“I cannot describe the overwhelming power I felt during those hours. I was unleashed, yes—but more than that, I was connected to the land, to the fires of every southern mountain. I could perceive the edges of the magical plague, as you might perceive the edges of a wound. I made sure that I burned it all, and more.” “Your cousin, Nikkan—he didn’t take the antidote?” “No. Perhaps he did not wish to live past that single act of manic devotion to his wretched cause.” The Ash King’s jaw tightens, and his eyes glimmer with unshed tears. After a moment he says, “The rebel I took prisoner—he said the poison had taken years to develop and was difficult to make. He said it required the soul essence of many wielders, and he promised that Cheimhold had no more of it. They planned to let it fester within our kingdom, confined by our mountainous borders, until it wore off in a few days—and then they would enter without resistance and take possession of Bolcan.”