Throne of Glass, #7
Kingdom of Ash
by Sarah J. Maas
Contents
Chapter 64
Overview
In the aftermath of Anielle’s near-destruction, Yrene and the healers struggle to save the wounded while everyone recognizes that Aelin’s power prevented total annihilation. Prince Kashin’s arrival with the rest of the khagan’s army confirms that Aelin’s sacrifice spared even more lives and keeps the northern campaign alive.
Lorcan survives his terrible wounds, and Elide keeps vigil at his bedside. Their reconciliation becomes open and mutual as both confess love, transforming their fractured bond into a renewed commitment before the war moves toward Orynth.
Summary
Hours after Aelin stops the flood at Anielle, Yrene remains shaken by the destruction, the dead, and the overwhelming power Aelin displayed. Yrene returns to the Great Hall to heal the wounded while healers spread across the battlefield. Everyone keeps looking toward the ruined city and the gap where the water passed, aware that Aelin drew the line between survival and annihilation.
Yrene recalls checking Aelin after Rowan carried the unconscious queen to a private chamber. Aelin shows no serious injury beyond ordinary battle wounds and exhaustion, while Rowan is more visibly hurt but refuses healing, saying he came too near burnout and needs rest. Yrene then helps Hafiza heal Lorcan, whose injuries are severe enough to require both their powers.
As Yrene seeks food, water, and rest, a horn sounds outside. The keep answers in welcome as Prince Kashin arrives with the rest of the khagan’s army. Yrene realizes Aelin’s act saved not only the army at Anielle but Kashin’s forces as well, though she wonders whether their luck will last through the march to Orynth.
Lorcan wakes on a cot with Fenrys watching over him. Fenrys tells Lorcan that Lorcan has been unconscious for a day and that Elide is helping with the healing. Relieved that Elide is alive and nearby, Lorcan quickly slips back into sleep.
When Lorcan wakes again, Elide is asleep at the foot of his cot, reaching toward his hand. Lorcan touches her fingers, and Elide wakes. Elide asks how Lorcan feels, and Lorcan answers that he feels alive. Elide mentions the things Lorcan said before losing consciousness, and Lorcan confirms he meant every word: he loves her and will love her until the Afterworld.
Elide admits that she loves Lorcan too and has loved him since Lorcan fought for her against Vernon and the ilken. Lorcan apologizes for everything, and Elide accepts his remorse without bitterness. When Elide prepares to return to help Yrene, Lorcan asks her to stay; Elide comforts him, asks him to say he loves her, and kisses him. Their desire deepens, but Lorcan stops before either of them goes further, promising only sleep for now and sending a bit of power to ease Elide’s limp as Elide leaves. Lorcan understands her unspoken message that she missed him and smiles.
Who Appears
- Yrene TowersExhausted healer tending Anielle’s wounded and assessing Aelin, Rowan, and Lorcan after the battle.
- Lorcan SalvaterreGravely wounded warrior who survives, wakes, reconciles with Elide, and confesses lasting love.
- Elide LochanKeeps vigil over Lorcan, admits she loves him, accepts his apology, and renews their bond.
- Fenrys MoonbeamWatches over Lorcan during recovery and informs him Elide is safe and helping healers.
- Aelin GalathyniusUnconscious queen whose immense power saved Anielle from the flood and left survivors awed.
- Rowan WhitethornInjured prince who carries Aelin to safety and refuses healing despite nearing burnout.
- Prince KashinArrives at Anielle leading the rest of the khagan’s army, newly spared from the flood.
- HafizaAssists Yrene in healing Lorcan when Yrene’s depleted power is not enough.