Book Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Throne of Glass – Book 7
- Jason Montero
- Sep 7
- 72 min read
Book summary by chapter of Kingdom of Ash. Includes spoilers from the first shackle to the end of the book. Aelin’s soul blazes like a star trapped in iron, struggling to unleash its fire through galaxies of pain and betrayal. Every sacrifice tears a fracture in the firmament, and her muted light guides scattered allies across a war-spanning realm. When darkness seems eternal, her fire ignites the dawn of an all-out war, where hope is forged in blood, memory, and unbreakable will.

Introduction – Kingdom of Ash
Hope doesn’t always come in light. Sometimes it burns from the shadows—forged in fire, blood, and silence. In Kingdom of Ash, the seventh book of the Throne of Glass saga, Sarah J. Maas takes us into a final battle where every soul must decide what they’re willing to lose to survive. This chapter-by-chapter book summary is not just a guide—it’s a descent into the emotional abyss each character must endure, page after page.
Aelin Galathynius, broken but unyielding, becomes the fulcrum of a war where time, love, and vengeance twist into each other. As her allies fight on distant fronts and enemies multiply, the story stretches to its limit. What does justice mean when resistance costs your very soul? What does it mean to be queen when there’s no kingdom left?
To fully grasp the weight of this final installment, one must return to the beginning—where oaths turned to ashes and the cruellest truths first whispered into the dark. Reading Order of Throne of Glass ➤
Want to see all the summaries from this series?
Click here to access the Complete Reading Order. 👇
Chapter Navigation
Prologue Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Prince in Search of His Mate
Prologue Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Imprisonment of the Forgotten Princess
Chapter 1 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Winter Arrives in Terrasen
Chapter 10 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Battle and the Fracture Between Aedion and Lysandra
Chapter 20 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Maeve’s Deception and Aelin’s Torture
Chapter 30 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Liberation and Her Silent Pain
Chapter 40 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon and Dorian’s Confrontation About Morath
Chapter 70 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian’s Danger and Maeve’s Deception
Chapter 80 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin Faces the Truth About Maeve and Erawan
Chapter 90 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Sacrifice of the Thirteen and Manon’s Devastation
Chapter 100 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion’s Resilience and Preparation for the Final Battle
Chapter 110 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Final Deception and Yrene’s Ultimate Decision
Chapter 120 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – New Beginnings and Promises for the Future
Epilogue Summary – Kingdom of Ash – A Better World for Terrasen and Beyond
Prologue Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Prince in Search of His Mate
The prince, whose identity seemed to fade, traveled across seas, forests, and mountains with his three loyal companions, driven by a desperate mission: to rescue his mate. Although his name barely echoed in his memory, his determination never wavered. The dark queen had kidnapped his beloved and kept her imprisoned in an iron coffin. As they crossed hostile landscapes and faced mortal dangers, the prince barely allowed himself to rest, ensuring his companions were ready for the final battle. Fury consumed him, ready to defy even the gods if it meant getting her back. Weeks and months passed as they explored forgotten paths, searching for traces of her presence. Every attempt to connect with her through the bond they shared ended in silence, but his promise never wavered: I will find you.
Prologue Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Imprisonment of the Forgotten Princess
The princess remained trapped in an iron prison that suppressed her power, locked away on an island surrounded by rapids and waterfalls. The forgotten temple where she was imprisoned had been built for a god no one remembered, and she, alone, endured the torture the dark queen inflicted to extract information from her. Drugged and plunged into constant lethargy, time faded between pain and silence. The blood flowing from her wounds mixed with the stones, while her curse of eternal life brought only suffering. Her only refuge was the stories she repeated to avoid losing herself in the darkness. She remembered her kingdom, the scent of pine and snow, and the prince with whom she shared an unbreakable bond. The dark queen tried to manipulate her memories to break her, but the princess clung to her story, which kept her hope alive amid the pain.
Chapter 1 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Winter Arrives in Terrasen
Winter arrived in Terrasen earlier than expected, covering the plains of Theralis under a thick layer of snow. Aedion Ashryver watched the Staghorn Mountains, aware that the storm would delay Morath's forces. Galan Ashryver's troops and the Silent Assassins patrolled the coast, while Lysandra, transformed, moved stealthily. Aedion pretended to be Aelin’s loyal cousin, though he could barely stand to look at Lysandra, remembering the queen’s absence. Along with Ren Allsbrook and Lysandra, they ambushed a group of Valg, leaving one alive to interrogate. Later, in Allsbrook, Aedion reflected on Erawan’s strategies, while a letter informed him of Eldrys’ destruction by Morath’s forces. The threat grew, and Terrasen was in danger. Every decision they made now would be crucial for the kingdom’s survival.
Chapter 2 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Elide and the Search for Aelin
Elide Lochan walked down a dusty alley south of Doranelle, dreaming of escaping everything. Beside her, Gavriel stood watch as Rowan Whitethorn brutally interrogated a commander loyal to Maeve for information about Aelin. Lorcan, silent and distant, stirred mixed feelings in Elide due to his past betrayal. Rowan, consumed by desperation, acted with lethal coldness in his attempt to locate Aelin, whose disappearance kept them constantly on the move. Elide, guided by Anneith's voice, witnessed the commander’s torture without looking away, understanding that the search was not only to save Aelin but to fulfill the destiny the gods had imposed on them. Tension grew as Rowan continued his relentless mission, and Elide realized that every lost day increased the price Aelin would have to pay.
Chapter 3 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Torment
Aelin Ashryver Whitethorn Galathynius woke between dreams of fire and ash, only to find herself chained to an iron altar. Cairn, her torturer, delighted in inflicting pain, while Fenrys, her immortal companion, watched helplessly from a distance. Aelin and Fenrys had developed a silent code to communicate, but not even their bond could ease the suffering Aelin endured. Cairn sought to break her so she would swear the blood oath to Maeve, but Aelin clung to her unyielding will. She knew that giving in would condemn Terrasen and everyone she loved. Every strike of Cairn’s hammer echoed in the cold chamber, but Aelin took refuge in her mind, repeating promises and memories that kept her alive. The torture continued, but Aelin would never allow the dark queen to win, no matter how deep the pain.
Chapter 4 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon and the Search for the Crochans
Manon watched the White Fang Mountains from a snow-covered cliff, searching for the Crochan witches. Alongside her Thirteen and Dorian Havilliard, they tracked abandoned camps, chasing ghosts. Manon knew the Crochans were key to the coming battle but feared time was not on their side. Asterin, her loyal Second, maintained hope of finding them, while Manon reflected on her lineage and the destiny calling her as the last Crochan Queen. Dorian, meanwhile, summoned Gavin's spirit, who revealed that the third Wyrdkey was in Morath but warned him that he was not yet ready to face that destiny. Manon, torn between her duty and her heart, knew that war was approaching and that the decisions made in those days would determine the fate of their world.
Chapter 5 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Rowan’s Decision
The group debated the information obtained from the captured commanders, with conflicting versions about Aelin’s whereabouts. Lorcan and Elide argued over the possibility that Maeve had taken her to Doranelle, while Rowan evaluated every option. Lorcan, tormented by his past betrayal, sought redemption, but Elide did not forget her pain. Finally, Rowan decided to head to Akkadia, hoping that was the right lead to find Aelin. As the group prepared to depart, Elide and Lorcan had a tense confrontation, where Lorcan confessed that he had never stopped trying to save Aelin. Rowan, in his nightly vigils, dreamed of a future with Aelin, a longing that kept him steady. The group set out with the hope that every step would bring them closer to the queen, whose life hung by a thread.
Chapter 6 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Chaol and Yrene on the Road to War
Chaol Westfall braved the icy wind on the deck of his ship as the khagan’s fleet sailed alongside him. The threat of Morath’s legions loomed over them, and each lost day could mean the fall of Terrasen. Yrene, his wife, joined him, seeking comfort in his embrace. Though they shared moments of calm, both felt the anxiety of the coming war. Nesryn and Sartaq scouted from the skies, discovering a group of Morath soldiers who attacked mercilessly to prevent them from bringing information to their army. Meanwhile, Yrene checked the medical supplies, worried about the insufficient provisions for the battles ahead. Hafiza, the Healer on High, tried to console her, but Yrene harbored a deep fear she hid even from Chaol. As she caressed her abdomen, she understood that her mission went beyond the war, a secret she still kept in silence.
Chapter 7 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian and the Uncertain Alliance with the Thirteen
Dorian Havilliard couldn’t shake the revelation that the last Wyrdkey was in Morath. However, he knew convincing Manon and the Thirteen to return there would be nearly impossible. Manon, cold and distant, discussed leading the witches south, away from danger. During the discussion, Abraxos alerted Manon of imminent danger. A stygian spider named Cyrene emerged from the forest, seeking vengeance for the silk stolen for Abraxos’ wings. Dorian, using Damaris’ power, confirmed that Cyrene was telling the truth when she offered to lead them to the Crochans. Despite the Thirteen’s distrust, they decided to take the spider with them. Dorian knew that finding the Crochans could bring him one step closer to Morath and the key, but he also feared the cost of that knowledge.
Chapter 8 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Silent Pain
Aelin awoke once again in the iron prison that held her captive, her body weak and covered in wounds. Cairn dragged her from her confinement and brought her before Maeve, who forced her to kneel in a circle of shattered glass. Aelin endured the pain while the dark queen reveled in her suffering. Fenrys, bound by Maeve’s commands, watched helplessly as the torture unfolded. In a cruel act, Maeve forced Connall to stab himself as punishment for Fenrys, who could only watch in despair. Aelin, on the brink of collapse, attempted to attack Cairn and Maeve with a shard of glass, but her effort was in vain. Maeve once again enveloped her in darkness, while Aelin clung to the hope that Rowan could still find her before it was too late.
Chapter 9 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Fenrys’ Comfort in the Darkness
Aelin lay bound to the altar, bleeding from the wounds caused by the glass shards embedded in her skin. Fenrys, in his human form, entered the chamber, his eyes reflecting the pain of losing Connall. Though their souls were broken, Fenrys took Aelin’s hand, offering her silent comfort. With a broken voice, he confessed his anguish, while Aelin, unable to speak, responded with blinks that conveyed their shared pain. Fenrys began removing the glass splinters from her skin, doing his best to ease her suffering. However, Aelin’s physical pain was nothing compared to the despair of feeling alone, without the certainty that Rowan would come to save her. Together, they shared a suffering that went beyond words, a silent connection that kept them alive in the midst of darkness.
Chapter 10 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Battle and the Fracture Between Aedion and Lysandra
The battle against Morath’s legions turned Terrasen’s field into a hell of mud, blood, and death. Lysandra, transformed into a snow leopard, fought fiercely while Aedion led the troops, trying to hold the line against the relentless enemies. Although victory seemed assured, the war was far from over. At the end of the day, Aedion and Terrasen’s lords discussed their next strategies while Nox Owen delivered a letter from Darrow, ordering them to meet in Orynth at dawn. Aedion, exhausted and wounded by the betrayal he felt from Lysandra, rejected her offer to fly that night to speak with Darrow. Lysandra, hurt by his coldness, held her head high, but the distance between them grew. Aedion, burdened with resentment, prepared to move an exhausted army, while Lysandra retreated to her tent, broken by the coldness of someone who was once her ally.
Chapter 11 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Chaol and the Threat in Anielle
Chaol Westfall studied the map with a racing heart after receiving alarming news from Nesryn and Sartaq: an army of ten thousand soldiers was advancing toward Anielle. The tension in the cabin was palpable as Sartaq confirmed the accuracy of the information. Hasar, ever pragmatic, suggested that they might be hiding more dangerous forces within Morath’s ranks. Yrene, holding Chaol’s hand, encouraged him to stay strong. Despite his doubts, Chaol decided he had to return to Anielle to warn his father, accompanied by Yrene. Sartaq suggested a strategy to secure Anielle before heading to the Ferian Gap, but Nesryn warned that it might be too late. With time running out, Chaol departed that night, fully aware that the fate of his home hung by a thread.
Chapter 12 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Resistance and Her Mother’s Voice
Aelin, trapped in the iron coffin, felt her strength fading as Cairn took pleasure in her torment. Despair consumed her, but the gentle voice of her mother, Evalin Ashryver, echoed in her mind, calling her "Heart of Fire" and reminding her that true strength resided in her heart. This memory ignited a spark within Aelin, restoring her lost determination. Though pain and exhaustion threatened to consume her, she struck the lid of her prison, repeating in her mind that she would not give up. When darkness claimed her, a small deformity on the coffin’s lid was proof of her struggle. Far away, Rowan felt the vibration of her power and knew that Aelin was still alive, renewing his determination to find her.
Chapter 13 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon’s Encounter with the Crochans
Manon and the Thirteen watched from the icy rocks as the Crochan camp bustled with witches in red cloaks performing their daily tasks. The Crochan leader, an elderly woman named Glennis, approached to greet them, immediately recognizing Manon’s connection to her lineage. Asterin and the Thirteen remained on guard while Dorian and Cyrene, the stygian spider, waited beside them. Manon, overwhelmed by the weight of her heritage, struggled to find the words to introduce herself. Dorian intervened, explaining that Manon had betrayed her grandmother and that he had saved her from death. Glennis, Manon’s great-grandmother, confirmed the truth, forcing Manon to confront her past and her destiny as the Crochan heir.
Chapter 14 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Battle Against the Ironteeth
The Crochans welcomed Manon and the Thirteen with distrust, but the arrival of the Ironteeth interrupted the tense truce. The Yellowlegs attacked the camp, triggering a fierce battle. Manon and the Thirteen fought with lethal precision, while Dorian unleashed his magic to protect the Crochans. During the fight, Dorian was overwhelmed by painful memories of Sorscha’s death, nearly losing control. After the victory, Bronwen accused Manon of leading the Ironteeth to the camp, but Glennis defended her great-granddaughter. Dorian, however, sensed that Manon was hiding the truth, a suspicion that would be confirmed later.
Chapter 15 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon’s Hidden Truth and the Ritual of the Flame of War
Manon, aware of her nature as a liar and murderer, had deliberately lured the Ironteeth to force the Crochans to join the war. Glennis revealed that only a Crochan queen could ignite the Flame of War, a ritual that would summon all the witches to fight. However, to accomplish this, Manon had to be accepted as their queen. Dorian, realizing the danger Cyrene posed, mercilessly eliminated her. That night, Manon and Dorian sought solace in each other, while the truth of their actions weighed heavily on them. At dawn, Manon confronted Glennis, determined to unite the Crochans to face the war, though the path to earning their trust would still be long and arduous.
Chapter 16 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Darrow’s Decision and Lysandra’s Betrayal
Aedion arrived exhausted at the camp where Darrow awaited him, showing little concern for the casualties suffered. During the dawn meeting, Lysandra, in her role as Aelin, faced Darrow’s hostility, who deliberately excluded her. Aedion defended her presence, but the tension escalated as Darrow insisted that the army retreat to Orynth. Aedion objected, arguing that moving the troops south would allow for better defense, but his voice was ignored. Although most voted to follow Darrow’s plan, Galan and other allies reaffirmed their loyalty to Terrasen. The meeting ended abruptly when a messenger from Morath attacked Lysandra, revealing the truth about her identity. Although the enemy was eliminated, Erawan now knew that Aelin was not present, leaving Lysandra and Aedion in a dangerous situation.
Chapter 17 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Morath’s Attack and the Camp’s Escape
Morath’s messenger unleashed his power, wounding Lysandra before being eliminated by Endymion and Aedion. The situation revealed that Erawan knew the truth about Aelin’s absence. Lysandra and Aedion retreated to their tent, where they discussed the danger they faced if Erawan attacked with full force. In a desperate act, Aedion decided to change the army’s course to avoid a massacre in Orynth. With Nox’s help, who discovered the truth about Lysandra, they devised a plan to silently flee the camp. Nox drugged the lords’ wine, and during the night, the army left the site, leaving the lords asleep and unaware that by dawn, the camp would be empty.
Chapter 18 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Chaol Returns to Anielle to Face His Past
Chaol and Yrene arrived at the cold fortress of Anielle, where they were met with hostility by Chaol’s father. The fortress, grim and austere, reflected the hardness of the Lord of Anielle, who reacted with disdain upon meeting Yrene. During the tense encounter, Chaol informed them of Morath’s imminent threat, but his father was incredulous and reluctant to cooperate. Yrene, firm and determined, defended Chaol and made it clear that they did not need the lord’s approval. Chaol warned his father to prepare for the siege, knowing that the fate of Anielle depended on the decisions they would make in the coming days.
Chapter 19 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Preparing for the Defense of Anielle
Chaol and Yrene found refuge in a small chamber within the fortress, where they discussed his father’s hostility and the options for evacuating the population. Chaol recalled Anielle’s hidden riches and considered the possibility of sending some inhabitants to seek refuge in the White Fangs. Yrene, ever pragmatic, suggested organizing supplies and preparing bandages for the wounded. At dawn, the arrival of the ruks and Sartaq’s riders announced that Morath’s army was only days away. Despite the presence of a thousand ruks, the threat looming over Anielle seemed impossible to stop, and the couple understood that the final battle was approaching.
Chapter 20 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Maeve’s Deception and Aelin’s Torture
Aelin, trapped between dreams and nightmares, listened to Maeve’s story about a queen who walked between worlds. The tale, filled with hidden truths, revealed connections to the Wyrdkeys and Aelin’s destiny. However, reality soon returned as Aelin awoke in her prison, chained and tortured by Cairn. Maeve planned to place a Wyrdstone collar on her to control her and extract the secrets she sought. Aelin, weakened by iron and pain, clung to her promise not to yield, while Fenrys, her loyal companion, offered silent comfort amid the torment. Despite her suffering, Aelin resisted, holding onto the hope that Rowan would find her before it was too late.
Chapter 21 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Rowan and the Plan to Lure Maeve
Rowan, Gavriel, Lorcan, and Elide advanced cautiously toward Doranelle, avoiding detection. They had sold their horses to avoid suspicion, relying on Elide to bargain and spread rumors about Wyrdstone collars to lure Maeve. Upon reaching a hill overlooking the city, Rowan felt that Aelin was still alive, which renewed his determination. The city, peaceful and bright, hid a vast army camped around the palace. Elide suggested infiltrating to gather information about Cairn, Aelin’s torturer, but Lorcan opposed it, concerned for her safety. However, Elide, firm and determined, insisted that her mission could be key to saving Aelin. Rowan agreed to the plan, knowing that the fate of his queen depended on its success.
Chapter 22 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Lysandra Discovers the Magnitude of Morath’s Army
Lysandra, transformed into a silver hawk, explored the snowy plains of Terrasen, remembering the days she had crossed those lands with Aelin. But her peace was shattered when she spotted Morath’s immense army: at least fifty thousand soldiers advanced toward Terrasen, accompanied by winged ilken and Valg princes. Alarmed, she flew back to warn Aedion. Terrasen’s forces, with only twenty-five thousand soldiers, were at a disadvantage. The battle began, and although the Scourge and the Silent Assassins fought valiantly, the relentless attacks of the Valg and the ilken broke through the defenses. Lysandra, transformed into a wyvern, and Aedion resisted, but Morath’s dark tide seemed unstoppable.
Chapter 23 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Elide Infiltrates Doranelle to Gather Information
Elide arrived in Doranelle, a majestic and lively city, though she knew that beneath its beauty lay Maeve’s power. Saying goodbye to Rowan, Lorcan, and Gavriel in the hills, she ventured into the city alone, pretending to be a lost girl to gather information about Cairn. In a tavern, she managed to gain the compassion of a Fae named Essar, who revealed that Cairn was in a camp to the east and that Maeve had left the city. Upon returning to her companions, she shared the information, prompting Rowan to plan an infiltration of the camp to rescue Aelin. Elide’s determination inspired her team to move forward, knowing they were closer to their goal.
Chapter 24 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon and the Cold Acceptance of the Crochans
Manon and the Thirteen remained in the Crochan camp, enduring the hostility of the witches who despised them. Despite this, Manon decided to fly to Eyllwe with the Crochans, hoping to earn their trust. Dorian, frustrated by his inability to control his shapeshifting magic, practiced unsuccessfully, while Manon tried to bond with the witches in the camp. During a conversation with Karsyn, Manon spoke about Abraxos, demonstrating that even wyverns could develop compassion. Dorian, growing closer to Manon, confessed that he cared about her, though she refused to admit her own feelings. At dawn, Dorian discovered that he had managed to change the color of his eyes, a sign that his control over his magic was improving. Prepared to fly to Eyllwe, they knew time was running out.
Chapter 25 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Torture and the Beginning of Rowan’s Rescue
Aelin remained a prisoner, trapped in an iron box and subjected to Cairn’s tortures. When she was taken out, she was chained to a metal table in the torturer’s tent, where he prepared his "grand finale": burning her alive to break her. Aelin, desperate, tried to buy time to avoid the torment. Meanwhile, Rowan and his team waited near the camp, ready to strike. Rowan, feeling that Aelin’s life hung by a thread, decided not to wait any longer and unleashed his power to break through to Cairn’s tent. Lorcan and Gavriel, from the forest, remained alert and ready to intervene. Determined to save Aelin, Rowan advanced, knowing that this was his last chance to rescue her before it was too late.
Chapter 26 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Fenrys’ Rebellion and Sacrifice for Aelin
Aelin remained chained to the metal table, enduring Cairn’s brutality while her mind devised ways to stay strong. She provoked Cairn to distract him, igniting his anger and delaying the torture. Enraged, Cairn dragged her toward a brazier to burn her face, but Aelin, with bravery, tried to escape, though she was quickly subdued. Meanwhile, Fenrys, witnessing her suffering, struggled against the blood oath that bound him to Maeve. In an act of heroism, Fenrys broke the bond, defying magical laws, and lunged at Cairn to save Aelin. This sacrifice severed his connection to Maeve, though he knew it would cost him his life.
Chapter 27 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Chaos in the Camp and Aelin’s Escape
Fenrys and Cairn fought fiercely while Aelin, still chained, tried to free her ankles with the red-hot poker. Fenrys, weakened after breaking the blood oath, knew his time was running out but continued fighting to give Aelin a chance. Finally, Aelin broke her chains and, though staggering, moved toward the tent’s entrance. Cairn tried to stop her, but Fenrys held him back once more. Meanwhile, Rowan advanced through the camp, unleashing unstoppable fury, eliminating anyone who stood in his way. His determination to rescue Aelin fueled him, and nothing could stop him.
Chapter 28 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Desperate Escape and Meeting Lorcan
Aelin, weak and staggering, ran through the camp, dodging soldiers and desperately seeking escape. Her blurred vision and battered body barely held her, but her will pushed her forward. Lorcan, from the hills, saw her figure and felt his heart stop. Using his magic, he sent a signal to Rowan, who was already approaching the center of the camp. Aelin continued fighting against the remaining soldiers until Lorcan finally reached her side, protecting her and lifting her in his arms. Gavriel, alongside them, covered their retreat while Aelin, barely conscious, murmured a name: "Fenrys." Rowan arrived, and seeing Aelin’s state, his fury erupted. He ordered Lorcan to take her to safety while he and Gavriel returned for Fenrys.
Chapter 29 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Rowan’s Revenge and Fenrys’ Rescue
Rowan advanced with icy fury, carving a path to the tent where Cairn had tortured Aelin. Upon arrival, he found Fenrys gravely wounded beside Cairn’s lifeless body, torn apart after the fight. Gavriel used his power to heal Fenrys, but Rowan showed no mercy. With Cairn’s barely living body, Rowan unleashed his vengeance, ensuring that the torturer felt every moment of pain before dying. Rowan’s fury engulfed the tent as snow and icy wind sealed Cairn’s fate. Fenrys, though weak, was carried by Gavriel while Rowan ensured that no threat remained before rejoining the rest of the group.
Chapter 30 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Liberation and Her Silent Pain
Elide waited in the forest, worried about Aelin’s fate. When Lorcan appeared with Aelin, the queen was unrecognizable: covered in blood, barefoot, and still wearing the iron mask. Aelin, disoriented, desperately tried to remove the chains, but neither Lorcan nor Rowan could break them. With Elide’s help, Aelin traced a Wyrdmark on the moss, and Rowan, using his blood, activated the magic to free her. When they finally removed the mask, Aelin was free, but her gaze was empty, as if her soul had been torn away. Upon hearing her name, a spark of recognition made her react, unleashing an explosion of golden fire. However, her body revealed a devastating truth: all her scars had disappeared, leaving her skin intact but her spirit broken, reflecting the price she had paid for her resilience.
Chapter 31 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Sacrifice to Save Fenrys
Aelin, still engulfed in golden flames, looked at Fenrys’ dying body. The scars on her body had disappeared, erasing her history and the wounds that defined her. Fenrys, weakened after breaking his blood oath, lay on the brink of death. Determined to save him, Aelin performed a new blood oath, cutting her arm and allowing her blood to mix with Fenrys’. This bond gave Fenrys the strength to resist death, binding him to Aelin as his new queen. Despite her apparent emotional emptiness, Aelin did not waver in her duty. The Little Folk appeared, guiding them to a safe cave where they could rest. Rowan, worried about Aelin’s condition, knew that her mind and heart were still broken, even though her body was healed.
Chapter 32 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian and the Challenge of His Shifting Magic
Dorian struggled to control his shapeshifting ability. Despite managing to change the color of his eyes, the process was frustrating and exhausting. Glennis, the elderly Crochan, advised him to let go of his past to allow his magic to flourish. During a pause in their journey, Dorian reflected on his need to release the man he had been and embrace his new reality. One night, while attempting to transform, he managed to change his eye color to green, which surprised the Thirteen and the Crochans. However, the transformation was brief, and his frustration grew. As night fell, the Shadows returned with alarming news: the air to the south was thick with the stench of death, indicating that something terrible had occurred.
Chapter 33 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Massacre in Eyllwe and Manon’s Guilt
The group arrived too late to save the group in Eyllwe. The bodies of fallen warriors and Crochans lay scattered in a clearing, victims of a massacre perpetrated by the Ironteeth. Seeing the scene, Manon felt the weight of guilt, knowing that she had trained the witches responsible. The Crochans, filled with pain and resentment, dug a mass grave for their fallen sisters. Dorian, while helping to send warning messages to the king and queen of Eyllwe, realized that they needed to hurry to prevent more tragedies. That night, Dorian invoked Kaltain Rompier with Damaris, and her spirit’s appearance warned him of the danger he would face if he went to Morath. Although Kaltain advised him to focus on finding the Wyrdkey, Dorian knew that his path inevitably led to a confrontation with Erawan.
Chapter 34 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion’s Desperate Retreat and the Rift with Lysandra
Aedion and Galan, exhausted and covered in blood, were forced to order a retreat north after days of impossible battles. The troops were exhausted, and Aelin’s absence sowed doubt and despair among the soldiers. Lysandra, in her wyvern form, fought tirelessly, but even she was reaching her limit. Desperate to avoid a massacre, Aedion decided to retreat toward Perranth to cross the Lanis River and slow the enemy. The tension erupted when Lysandra returned to the camp, exhausted and vulnerable. Aedion, overwhelmed by anger and fear, confronted her with cruel words, blaming her for Terrasen’s plight. Hurt and devastated, Lysandra left the tent, leaving Aedion alone with his guilt and the certainty that he had broken something that might never be repaired.
Chapter 35 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Purification and the Path to Freedom
Aelin awoke in the cave, feeling the pressure of her contained magic. The scars that once told her story had disappeared, leaving her feeling empty and disconnected from herself. Determined to purify herself, she submerged in the cold waters of the underground lake, seeking to ease the burden on her soul. Rowan watched her from the shore, feeling her pain and anguish. Emerging from the water, Aelin shared with Rowan the truth about the illusions and torture Maeve had inflicted, confessing her fear that she had been broken. Rowan explained that the collar Maeve had tried to place on her was part of a deception to distract her. The Little Folk then appeared, guiding them to an ancient ship that would take them to the sea. Aelin, with the silver-and-pearl crown still on her head, knew that the journey was far from over, but now she had a new path to freedom and the final battle that would determine the fate of her world.
Chapter 36 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Journey in Darkness and Aelin’s Determination
Aboard the boat sailing through the underground river, the group advanced in endless darkness. Elide, uneasy, feared that their journey could last days or weeks without seeing sunlight. The lantern of the blue worms barely illuminated the walls, and the sound of the water beneath them was the only thing breaking the silence. Rowan calculated that the journey to the coast could take more than a week. Aelin, in complete silence, sat at the back of the boat, lost in her thoughts. Though her body had healed, her soul was still marked by torment. She knew her destiny required sacrifices, but after everything she had suffered, she began to question whether she could endure it. During the journey, Aelin decided she would use that time to rebuild herself. She would pretend to be the invincible queen everyone expected, hoping that one day that lie would become the truth.
Chapter 37 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Encounter with the Barrow Creatures
After days of sailing, the atmosphere changed when Rowan sensed the presence of something dangerous. Noticing the gleam of gold in a niche of the cave, he knew they had entered the territory of the barrow creatures, malicious beings that coveted gold and hated light. Aelin, driven by a strange determination, ordered the boat to stop and jumped ashore. Rowan, Fenrys, and Gavriel followed her, venturing into a cavern filled with ancient treasures. There, a shadowy creature guarded a forgotten sarcophagus. Rowan quickly eliminated it, but Aelin’s attention was on the treasures. She gathered gold and jewels, ensuring they would be useful to fund their journey. She found two rings and gave them to Rowan, silently renewing their vows. This small gesture symbolized her desire to move forward and rebuild their relationship. With renewed spirits, the group returned to the boat, ready to continue their journey toward the coast.
Chapter 38 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Treasure and the Stars of the Underground World
The return to the boat brought with it latent tensions. Fenrys, still filled with anger, accused Lorcan of being responsible for his situation, while Elide watched the growing hostility with concern. The calm was broken again when an unsettling hiss echoed in the cave, but the creatures towing the boat retreated, avoiding danger. Days later, while silence still enveloped the journey, Rowan woke Aelin to show her something extraordinary: thousands of tiny blue lights hung from the cave’s ceiling, reflecting in the water like a sea of stars. The sight reignited a spark of hope in Aelin, reminding her of her promise to "rattle the stars." This moment of beauty amid the darkness gave Aelin the determination to move forward, prepared to face whatever lay ahead.
Chapter 39 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Arrival of Morath’s Army in Anielle and Yrene’s Revelation
Morath’s army arrived at Anielle, bringing fear and tension with it. Nesryn and Borte, from atop the fortress, observed the enemy’s advance, while the bone drums echoed through the night to break the defenders’ morale. Yrene, worried about the refugees inside the fortress, reorganized the families to keep them safe from the catapults. Chaol, preparing for battle, shared a moment of intimacy with Yrene, aware that dawn might bring the decisive battle. During a tense conversation with his father, Chaol received an unexpected revelation: Yrene was pregnant. The news filled him with both joy and fear, but before he could process it, the drums stopped, marking the beginning of the assault. With the battle imminent, Chaol knew that he was now fighting not just for his home but also for his family.
Chapter 40 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon and Dorian’s Confrontation About Morath
Manon and the Thirteen, after burying the fallen in the Eyllwe massacre, performed an act of honor that surprised the Crochans. Bronwen acknowledged Manon’s leadership, who confessed her desire to unite all the witches before the war destroyed them. While the Crochans debated their next moves, Manon decided to head to the Ferian Gap to find Petrah Blueblood and the Ironteeth who might join her cause. However, while venturing into the forest, she found Dorian speaking with Kaltain Rompier’s spirit. Upon learning that Dorian planned to infiltrate Morath to retrieve the third Wyrdkey, Manon, furious, confronted him. Dorian explained that he had made that decision in secret because he knew she would not accept it. Manon, feeling betrayed, offered him a test: to fly to the Ferian Gap at dawn to prove that he was ready. The tension between them was palpable, and the trust they once shared seemed to be fading.
Chapter 41 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Flight to the Sea
The group emerged from the caves and arrived at a bay on the western coast of Wendlyn. Aelin, gazing at the ship disappearing into the darkness, felt the weight of the destiny that still awaited her. Rowan and Lorcan secured a boat to sail toward the continent before Maeve and her forces could catch them. During the voyage, Aelin remained near the bow, contemplating the sea and reflecting on the sacrifice that lay ahead. Rowan convinced her to talk about her fears, and in the intimacy of the cabin, they reaffirmed their bond and love, promising to face whatever came together. Aelin accepted that, although the scars on her body had vanished, those on her soul would take longer to heal. That night, as the ship sailed away from Wendlyn, they found comfort in the promise of moving forward, knowing that the decisive battle was fast approaching.
Chapter 42 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Lorcan’s Oath
Lorcan watched the sunrise as the ship advanced. Aelin, with her old determination restored, confronted him about his place in the war. She offered him a single option: to make the blood oath with her to secure his loyalty to Terrasen. Lorcan, though hesitant, accepted after seeing the hope reflected in Elide’s eyes. Kneeling, he offered his dagger and drank from Aelin’s blood, feeling the queen’s power flow through his veins. Fenrys, displeased, muttered curses but accepted the decision. Aelin clarified that Elide would not take the oath to keep her vow intact. After sealing the bond, Aelin announced that during the remaining journey, they would train and plan, preparing every move for the final battle. With Goldryn in hand, Aelin reaffirmed her goal: to return to Terrasen and lead her people to victory. Lorcan, now bound to that destiny, swore to protect that kingdom.
Chapter 43 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Spy in Morath
Dorian, hidden under his new appearance, arrived at the Ferian Gap, infiltrating as a trainer returning with his wyvern. Manon, watching from the mountains, waited anxiously. Inside the fortress, Dorian gathered valuable information: the Matrons were not there, only Petrah Blueblood and three hundred Ironteeth witches. Upon returning, Dorian shared the information, and Manon decided it was time to act. She went to the Ferian Gap with the Thirteen and spoke with Petrah, exposing the truth about her grandmother’s lies. Manon offered them a choice: to join the fight against Morath or continue serving darkness. Manon’s words, along with Asterin’s story, impacted the witches, leaving the decision in their hands. As she left the Ferian Gap, Manon knew that the war was near and that the true battle to unite the witches was only beginning.
Chapter 44 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Pain
Aelin woke from a distressing dream where she relived Cairn’s tortures. Desperate to rid herself of the weight of those memories, she insisted on training with Rowan to distract her mind. Every strike she delivered with Goldryn was not just against her opponent but also against the ghosts that haunted her. Rowan, worried about her state, asked her to rest, but Aelin refused, feeling that the war was closer than they imagined. During breakfast, Fenrys joined her in silence, understanding her pain without the need for words. At the end of the day, Rowan returned from the skies with alarming news. Something big was approaching, and Aelin, still disturbed, took her sword and prepared to face what was coming. Determination reignited within her, though her heart was still fighting to heal the invisible scars that marked her deeply.
Chapter 45 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Yrene’s Secret Revealed
Yrene tirelessly fought to heal the wounded while the siege on Anielle continued. The sound of bone drums echoed through the fortress, breaking the soldiers’ spirits. Chaol, from the walls, led the defense with courage, knowing that Yrene and their child’s lives depended on his strength. During a brief pause, Chaol met with his father, who, with cold detachment, revealed the secret Yrene had kept: she was pregnant. The news struck Chaol hard, filling him with fear and hope. Before he could process the information, the sound of the battle horn announced the arrival of the khaganate’s cavalry, led by Hasar. The battle was far from over, but Chaol, now aware of the life growing inside Yrene, vowed to fight fiercer than ever to protect his family.
Chapter 46 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Last Stand at Perranth
Perranth stood between the cobalt lake and the mountains. Aedion chose the frozen Lanis River as his last line of defense against Morath. During a day of truce, he gathered supplies and organized the ranks, but the reinforcements brought by Nox were insufficient. When Morath arrived, Endymion and Sellene broke the ice to drown thousands of enemies, but the Valg princes sent more troops. Aedion led the charge while Lysandra, in her wyvern form, attacked the ilken, shifting into a leopard to fight on the ground. The battle descended into chaos as Terrasen’s lines began to crumble. With Morath crossing the river and soldiers fleeing, Aedion knew they were on the brink of defeat. Lysandra, seeing the danger, prepared to fight until the end, aware that the battle was not yet over and that Terrasen’s hope hung by a thread.
Chapter 47 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Wyrd Tower
Aedion witnessed the disorganized retreat of his army as panic consumed the ranks. A shout announced the arrival of the queen, but it was Lysandra in Aelin’s form, fighting against two ilken. Aedion, desperate, ran toward her but was too late when a venomous claw wounded Lysandra. Despite the pain, she kept fighting, inspiring the soldiers who returned to the fight. Aedion killed the ilken that nearly killed her and carried her to safety. However, a new threat emerged: a siege tower made of Wyrdstone, designed to channel dark magic. Aedion shouted orders to retreat, but the blast from the Sundering devastated everything in its path. As the dark storm dissipated, Aedion found himself surrounded by ashes and bodies, realizing that the battle was lost and Terrasen’s fate was hanging by a thread.
Chapter 48 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Reunion with Aelin
The partial victory of the khaganate provided a brief respite in Anielle. Chaol and Yrene, exhausted, entered Hasar’s tent when Aelin, Rowan, and their group arrived. Chaol, overwhelmed with emotion upon seeing her standing, embraced her, and Aelin, moved, recognized Yrene, returning the note she had kept for years. Yrene, now Chaol’s wife, shared a moment of gratitude with Aelin. Rowan introduced the others: Gavriel, Lorcan, Fenrys, and Elide. Though tired, Aelin assumed her role as leader and approached the map to plan the next battle. With allies gathered and combined forces, hope of changing the course of the war was rekindled. The meeting ended as Aelin, with her charisma and leadership, prepared everyone for the next challenge, knowing that the true battle was yet to come.
Chapter 49 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Challenge of the Khaganate
As Aelin explored the khaganate’s camp, she admired the strength of the Darghan and the mighty ruks. Hasar hinted that Aelin had to earn the khaganate’s support to march toward Terrasen. Sartaq suggested securing Anielle before making a decision. During the discussion, Falkan appeared, a shapeshifter whom Aelin recognized from the Red Desert and who turned out to be Lysandra’s uncle. The revelation that the stygian spiders were Valg, serving Maeve, changed the tone of the conversation. Fenrys, transformed into a wolf, impressed Borte and confirmed his Fae nature. With vital information and unexpected allies, Aelin knew she had to convince the khaganate to fight for Terrasen. Gaining their loyalty would be difficult, but the fate of her kingdom depended on it.
Chapter 50 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Maeve’s Revelation
The revelation that Maeve was a Valg queen left Aelin in despair. Nesryn’s revelation about Maeve’s marriage to Orcus and her manipulation of everyone, including Brannon and Elena, shook them all. Aelin, feeling broken, struggled with the weight of the truth. Rowan, devastated to see her so vulnerable, comforted her, reminding her of her strength and the need to keep going. Gavriel and Rowan discussed the impact of Maeve’s betrayal, while Fenrys and Aelin shared their pain in silence. Aelin, knowing that she now had to face not only Erawan but also Maeve and the Valg, realized that the battle would be harder than she had imagined. The night before the battle brought uncertainty, but Aelin, determined to protect her kingdom, prepared to fight with everything she had.
Chapter 51 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Weight of Regret
Lorcan watched the ruks prepare for battle, but his mind was trapped in the betrayal of Maeve. Elide interrupted his thoughts to inform him that the ruks were ready, but her distant attitude disarmed him. Lorcan tried to apologize for his mistakes, but Elide, coldly, reminded him that both had loved a monster. Gavriel pointed out to Elide that Lorcan’s oath to Aelin had been for her, which made guilt eat away at her. As the ruks took off, Nesryn and Borte shared a moment of camaraderie before Sartaq joined them, reminding Nesryn of the fragility of time during war. The night before the battle was filled with mixed emotions: love, guilt, and the desperate need to hold onto hope.
Chapter 52 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Legacy of Rhiannon
Manon and the Thirteen returned to the Crochan camp, where Glennis tended the sacred fire of Brannon. Manon wondered if the Ironteeth could change, remembering Rhiannon’s dream of a united Witch Kingdom. Asterin tried to encourage her, but Sorrel was more pragmatic. Meanwhile, Dorian, apart from the group, reflected on his destiny while experimenting with his magic, transforming into a raven to prepare for the journey to Morath. At dawn, Manon contemplated her destiny as a bridge between two worlds, aware that her role was crucial for the future of the witches. Dorian, determined to perfect his transformation, knew that flying toward the heart of darkness was inevitable.
Chapter 53 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Price of Deception
Lysandra woke up in a tent, wounded and exhausted, as Aedion informed her that they had lost Perranth and were fleeing toward Orynth. The deception about Aelin had been revealed, and Lysandra felt the humiliation of living a lie to keep hope alive. Aedion, filled with guilt, tried to comfort her, but she could not forgive him for his cruel treatment. Later, Darrow stripped Aedion of his rank as general and the sword of Orynth as punishment for the loss of Perranth. The army’s morale plummeted, and despair took hold of the soldiers as they fled north. When they arrived at the Florine River and discovered that Morath had destroyed the bridge, they realized they were trapped, with no way out.
Chapter 54 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – A Future to Protect
Chaol tended to his mare when Yrene revealed that she was pregnant. The news filled Chaol with happiness and determination to protect his family. Meanwhile, Chaol’s father barged into the hall where Aelin and her court rested, provoking a tense confrontation. Aelin, firm and sarcastic, made it clear that she would not tolerate his interference. That night, Aelin, tormented by dreams of being trapped in a Wyrd coffin, woke up feeling watched by the gods. Despite the fear consuming her, she curled up next to Rowan, seeking comfort in his presence, determined not to let despair defeat her.
Chapter 55 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Return of the Matrons
Dorian practiced his shapeshifting abilities, adapting to new forms to perfect his control. Manon found him, surprised by his choices, and their discussion brought out feelings both had been avoiding. Dorian hinted that Manon was afraid to ask him to stay, which unleashed a mix of anger and vulnerability in her. As Manon reflected, Glennis approached to say goodbye, but an urgent warning alerted her to danger. Three wyverns emerged from the clouds: the Matrons of the Ironteeth clans had arrived to settle scores. Manon, with Wind-Cleaver in hand, prepared for the confrontation, knowing that this battle would determine the fate of the witches.
Chapter 56 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon’s Coronation
Manon faced her grandmother and the High Witches, who had come to punish her for her betrayal. Manon’s grandmother challenged her authority and accused her of weakness. In a fierce battle, Manon fought the three Matrons at the same time. Her skill and cunning allowed her to decapitate the Yellowlegs Matron, claiming the crown of stars. The other Matrons, terrified, withdrew, solidifying Manon as the Queen of the Witches. At the end, she offered the crown to Glennis, who returned it, acknowledging Manon as the true leader. The Crochans and the Thirteen knelt, sealing the union of both clans under Manon’s leadership.
Chapter 57 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Golden Armor
Before dawn, Rowan, worried about Aelin, remembered that she had not used her fire since her liberation. Fenrys confessed that Aelin had been marked and that only her proclamation marks had remained before fading. Descending into the depths of the fortress, Aelin found golden armor and a battle crown. When the battle began, Aelin, radiant in her armor, led the fight. Rowan, Fenrys, and Gavriel defended the walls. Aelin’s presence inspired the soldiers, who fought with renewed courage. Without needing her fire, Aelin proved that she was still an unstoppable force, reminding everyone that the Queen of Terrasen was ready for any challenge.
Chapter 58 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Elide and the Chaos of Battle
Elide assisted in the Great Hall, surrounded by wounded soldiers while Yrene led the healing efforts. Chaol fought fiercely on the battlements, defending the fortress from Morath’s forces. Nesryn, along with Sartaq, discovered that Morath’s soldiers were trying to destroy the dam to release the lake and flood the battlefield. Together, they destroyed the battering ram and saved the dam. Lorcan and Gavriel defended the first siege tower, holding back Morath’s soldiers. However, Lorcan, driven by his warrior nature, let his guard down and was gravely wounded. He fell to the ground, facing the possibility of death as the chaos of the battle continued.
Chapter 59 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Threat of the Dam
The khaganate’s army was decimating Morath’s soldiers. Rowan, alongside Aelin, watched the exhaustion on the battlefield. However, Sartaq and Nesryn brought alarming news: the nearby dam had been damaged and could break at any moment, releasing a torrent of water capable of destroying both armies. An evacuation was ordered toward the fortress, but the certainty that many would not survive weighed heavily on everyone. Elide, worried about Lorcan, discovered that no one knew where he was. Desperate, she took control of Chaol’s mare, Farasha, and rode onto the battlefield to find him before it was too late.
Chapter 60 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Elide Rescues Lorcan
Rowan knew that his magic could not contain the dam’s collapse. While they evacuated, Hasar pointed to Elide, who, mounted on Farasha, galloped desperately in search of Lorcan. Despite the warnings, Elide rode into the plain filled with bodies, shouting his name. On the brink of collapse, she found Lorcan gravely wounded and, with great effort, managed to lift him onto Farasha. Despite the pain and despair, Elide guided the horse toward the fortress, praying to reach safety before the dam burst. The journey was long, but her determination pushed her to keep going.
Chapter 61 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Elide and Aelin’s Sacrifice
Lorcan could barely stay conscious as Elide guided him toward the fortress. Despite his pleas for her to leave him behind, she refused, driven by her unwavering love. The dam finally gave way, releasing a deadly wall of water that surged toward the army. Rowan and the others watched from the battlements as the destruction approached, but Aelin, mounted on Borte’s ruk, descended to confront the threat. At the last moment, she unleashed the power she had contained for months, releasing golden and blue flames that clashed against the wave. The clash was titanic, and Aelin’s strength managed to dissipate the water before it reached her allies. Exhausted and on the brink of collapse, she fell to her knees, and Rowan, transformed into a hawk, carried her to safety. The battlefield fell silent, witnessing the sacrifice and immense power Aelin had unleashed to save them.
Chapter 62 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Alliance of Manon and Dorian
The Crochans and the Thirteen flew southwest after their victory, seeking refuge in the hills. During the night, Dorian received a visit from Manon, who arrived silently, reflecting on her role as Queen of the Witches. Sitting together, they shared moments of vulnerability, speaking about their fears and desires. Manon apologized for her reaction to Dorian’s plans to go to Morath, admitting that she feared losing him. Dorian, though tempted by the possibility of staying, knew that his mission was more important than his feelings. Manon, aware of this, offered him a formal alliance between their peoples, but Dorian sensed that Manon did not truly want to be bound by that decision. In the early hours of the morning, after sharing an intimate night, Dorian left for Morath in silence. Upon waking and finding the bed cold, Manon knew he was gone, leaving behind a silent promise to return.
Chapter 63 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion’s Rescue and Rolfe’s Arrival
Aedion and his troops, exhausted and without hope, held the line on the banks of the Florine River. Morath’s bone drums echoed, signaling the end. Aedion, aware that his army would not survive, sent messengers to request help, though he knew the response might not arrive in time. As Morath’s soldiers advanced and enemy arrows rained down, something unexpected happened. From the left flank, a rain of fire fell upon the enemy ranks: Rolfe’s fleet had arrived. The Mycenians, led by the Pirate Lord, attacked with fire-tipped spears, causing chaos in Morath’s lines. Aedion ordered a retreat toward the rowboats to board Rolfe’s ships. Lysandra, exhausted after fighting in her snow leopard form, shifted back to her human form to help coordinate the withdrawal. Though grateful for the rescue, Aedion knew that the fire-tipped spears would not be enough to face what was coming in Orynth.
Chapter 64 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Lorcan and Elide’s Promise
Yrene, exhausted after healing dozens of wounded, continued working in the Great Hall, tending to the soldiers arriving from battle. Lorcan awoke in a small room, with Fenrys watching over him. The Fae informed him that Elide was safe and assisting the healers. Hearing this, Lorcan fell into a deep sleep again, feeling a peace he had not known in centuries. Upon waking again, he found Elide asleep at the foot of his bed. Touching her cold fingers, she woke up, and after a moment of vulnerability, Lorcan confessed his unconditional love for her. Elide, moved, returned his feelings and promised never to leave him. Though the pain of his wounds still weakened him, Elide’s presence gave him the strength he needed to continue. When Elide left to continue assisting the healers, Lorcan, for the first time, allowed himself to smile, knowing he had found his home in her.
Chapter 65 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon’s Call to War
Dorian had left for Morath, leaving Manon gazing at the horizon. Asterin approached and confirmed that the king was gone, and although Manon tried to hide her pain, Dorian’s absence affected her more than she was willing to admit. At dawn, a Crochan scout arrived at the camp with an urgent message: Terrasen was calling for help. Orynth was under threat, and Morath’s forces were advancing toward the city. Glennis, leader of the Crochans, challenged Manon to decide the future of her people. Without hesitation, Manon accepted the call, igniting the Flame of War, an ancient ritual that would summon all witches to fight. House by house, clan by clan, the Crochans answered the call. From the snowy mountains to the deepest forests, the witches revealed their true identities, ready to fly north and join the final battle. Manon, as the rightful Queen of the Witches, led her people to Terrasen, determined to face the darkness and fulfill her destiny.
Chapter 66 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Rebirth and the March North
Aelin woke up next to Rowan, smelling pine and snow, and for the first time in a long time, her mind was clear. Three days had passed since the battle, and although emotional scars remained, the khagan’s army, led by Prince Kashin, had arrived. Aelin, knowing that time was running out, enjoyed a moment of intimacy with Rowan before focusing on the strategy to head north to confront Erawan. In a meeting with the leaders, including Fenrys, Gavriel, Chaol, and Kashin, they discussed the danger threatening Terrasen and the need to cross the Ferian Gap. Aelin watched Yrene’s work, impressed by her ability to heal soldiers possessed by the Valg, which reignited hope that she might be able to face Erawan. Determined to face her destiny, Aelin realized that with her allies by her side, there was still hope for Terrasen.
Chapter 67 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Doubt and Yrene’s Hope
Rowan accompanied Aelin to the Silver Lake, where they both contemplated the destruction left by the battle. While collecting enemy weapons that were still usable, Aelin shared her fears about whether Yrene could expel even Erawan or Maeve, though the risk to the healer and her child terrified her. Rowan, filled with concern, assured her that he would not allow Yrene to sacrifice herself, but Aelin knew that the hope of saving Terrasen depended on it. Later, Aelin, Rowan, and Borte reviewed ancient Wyrd texts searching for another solution to avoid forging the Lock, but frustration grew as they found no answers. Meanwhile, Chaol faced his father, ceding territory to the wild men despite his father’s manipulations. The march north began shortly after, guided by a unit of wild men. Aelin, determined and with her power as her guide, led the way toward Terrasen, knowing that the final battle was near.
Chapter 68 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian Discovers Maeve and Erawan’s Alliance
Dorian flew over Morath in his raven form, observing the black towers and the encamped troops. Hidden in the shadows, he entered the fortress as a mouse, moving stealthily to the base of Erawan’s tower. There, he witnessed a terrifying scene: Maeve, dressed in purple and with an air of dark elegance, was conversing with Erawan. The Fae queen revealed her true nature and her desire to ally with Erawan to destroy Aelin and her lineage. Maeve offered a macabre solution: to use the kharankui spiders as hosts for the Valg princesses, creating more powerful and deadly creatures. Dorian realized that the alliance between Maeve and Erawan could mean the destruction of everything they loved. However, before he could escape, Maeve discovered him, trapping him with her dark magic and mocking his attempt at espionage, leaving him defenseless and at her mercy.
Chapter 69 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Despair in Orynth and Lysandra’s Determination
Aedion and Lysandra arrived in Orynth, where the city, surrounded by the Staghorn Mountains and the Oakwald Forest, awaited Morath’s imminent siege. Aedion, overwhelmed by guilt over his past decisions, observed the sorrowful faces of the trapped citizens, knowing that the end was near. In the council chamber, Aedion and Lysandra met with Terrasen’s lords, where Rolfe made it clear that he was there for Aelin, not for them. Lysandra fiercely defended Aelin, reminding everyone that it was thanks to her that they still had allies. Later, in the throne room, Lysandra, exhausted and disillusioned, confessed her sadness for not seeing Aelin on that throne. Aedion shared her pain, both aware that the future was uncertain. With Orynth on the brink of destruction, the hope of victory seemed to be fading, but Lysandra and Aedion clung to their determination to resist until the end.
Chapter 70 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian’s Danger and Maeve’s Deception
Dorian, hidden in Morath, watched in horror as Maeve negotiated with Erawan, offering the kharankui spiders as hosts for the Valg princesses, creating even more lethal weapons. Erawan, intrigued but cautious, agreed to consider Maeve’s offer, who remained calculating and cunning. When Maeve retired to her chambers, Dorian followed her in mouse form, but his presence did not go unnoticed. Maeve, aware of his presence from the beginning, easily trapped him, immobilizing him with her dark magic. Mocking his attempt at espionage, Maeve reminded him that his power was far from enough to confront her. Dorian, powerless and trapped, realized that his mission had failed and that the Fae queen now had the upper hand. With his fate uncertain, Dorian knew that time was running out to stop Maeve and Erawan, and the future of Terrasen hung by a thread.
Chapter 71 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian’s Game with Maeve and Erawan
Dorian struggled to contain his magic while Maeve kept him trapped with her dark power, leaving a mark that made him feel vulnerable. Upon releasing him, Maeve revealed that she had detected his presence thanks to Cyrene, the stygian spider Dorian had killed, which allowed her to track his movements. Maeve tried to manipulate him, suggesting that they could ally to eliminate Erawan and save Aelin, but Dorian knew her intentions went beyond a simple alliance. Pretending to consider the offer, Dorian adopted the demeanor of an intriguing courtier, suggesting an alliance with Adarlan to buy time. Later, disguised as Vernon, Dorian obtained crucial information from Erawan, though his cunning raised suspicions. Maeve, mocking, reprimanded him for his audacity, warning him that he could not defeat Erawan alone. Although Dorian had not yet found the Wyrdkey, he knew that the game was just beginning and that Maeve remained his most dangerous card.
Chapter 72 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Empty Ferian Gap and Nesryn’s Alarm
Nesryn and Borte explored the Ferian Gap from the air but found it eerily empty. There were no signs of wyverns or witches, only smoking forges and desolate structures. Meanwhile, Chaol, accompanied by Yrene and the wild men, advanced through the treacherous White Fangs toward the north. Kai, one of the guides, warned that the night would be dangerous and that there was no safe refuge for the army. Aelin, along with Gavriel and Fenrys, joined Chaol, ensuring that they would be ready for any attack. During the night watch, Gavriel reflected on his relationship with Aedion, and Chaol encouraged him not to lose hope. When Nesryn and Borte returned, they brought alarming news: the Ferian Gap was completely empty. Rowan, understanding the gravity of the situation, sent scouts to investigate. This revelation left everyone uneasy, wondering if Morath had moved its forces to prepare for an unexpected attack.
Chapter 73 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian and Maeve Discover Morath’s Secrets
Dorian explored the dark corridors of Morath, constantly changing forms to avoid detection. While searching for the Wyrdkey, he discovered horrific rituals where the stygian spiders served as hosts for the Valg princesses, creating terrifying hybrids. Eventually, he found an underground chamber where Erawan’s sarcophagus rested, surrounded by Wyrdstone collars that emanated a dark and terrifying magic. The sight of these objects triggered traumatic memories of Dorian’s time under Valg control. Maeve appeared and freed him from the influence of the dark magic, taking him back to the surface. Though he distrusted her, Dorian realized that Maeve was his only hope of obtaining information about the key. Maeve proposed seducing Erawan to gain access to his tower and discover if the key was there. With the plan underway, Dorian realized they were playing a dangerous game where any mistake could mean their end.
Chapter 74 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Maeve’s Dangerous Game with Erawan
Maeve entered Erawan’s tower, adopting seductive forms to tempt the Valg king, even transforming into Aelin and Manon to stir his desires. Although Erawan showed interest, he rejected her offer, recalling his connection with Orcus. The next day, in her meeting with Erawan, Maeve feigned disinterest in his proposals, which led the Valg king to demand more kharankui spiders to strengthen his army. Maeve warned Erawan about the danger of Aelin’s power, reminding him that even with his preparations, one mistake could mean his downfall. However, Erawan insisted on the need to bring in more spiders to secure his victory. Maeve, seizing the opportunity, hinted at her knowledge of traveling between worlds and tempted Erawan with the possibility of bringing Orcus and Mantyx, his Valg brothers, for a brief moment. With this, Maeve planted the seed of curiosity in Erawan, waiting for the right moment to execute her true plan.
Chapter 75 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion’s Trap for Morath’s Army
Orynth was preparing for the siege, with Aedion and Ren inspecting the defenses. Although the walls were reinforced, they knew they would need something more to stop Morath’s army. Ren suggested using hellfire, but Aedion had another plan: a hidden trap on the Theralis plain. That night, along with Lysandra and a group of Silent Assassins and Mycenians, Aedion dug holes to bury explosive charges that would destroy part of the enemy army. At dawn, Morath’s army appeared on the horizon, with a hundred thousand soldiers and witch towers led by wyverns. When the enemy forces crossed the traps, Aedion ordered incendiary arrows to be fired, activating the explosions that destroyed two of the towers and demoralized Morath’s forces. Although they had bought time, the defenders knew that the true battle was only beginning. Lysandra, Aedion, and their allies prepared for the final confrontation, aware that Terrasen’s fate hung by a thread.
Chapter 76 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian and Maeve Plan the Final Deception
Dorian was intrigued to discover that mirrors could show other worlds and that Maeve had taught the witches to use them to manipulate others, just as Erawan did with the witch towers. Maeve proposed a risky plan: deceive Erawan with an illusion of his brothers, Orcus and Mantyx, while Dorian searched for the Wyrdkey in the tower. Maeve claimed to have weakened the tower’s magical protections, opening a portal for Dorian to enter undetected. Dorian, aware of Maeve’s dangerous connection to the kharankui spiders, understood that she had reluctantly sacrificed them. As he prepared for his mission, Dorian took the form of Erawan as a precaution, ready to face any threat in his search for the key. With Damaris in hand and his fire contained, he crossed the portal, willing to risk everything to change the fate of his world.
Chapter 77 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian Finds the Wyrdkey
Dorian entered Erawan’s chamber, surprised by the simplicity of the place. However, he sensed the presence of the Wyrdkey, whose dark energy permeated the room. Approaching the bed, he found a young, emaciated girl with vacant eyes and a scar near her wrist, where the key was embedded. Dorian, disguised as Erawan, ordered the girl to show him her arm and extracted the key with a precise cut, feeling its dark power pulse in his hands. The girl, aware of his true identity, begged him to kill her to free her from her torment, but Dorian hesitated, unable to make that decision. Before he could act, Maeve appeared and, without mercy, broke the girl’s neck, freeing her from suffering. Although Dorian had obtained the key, he realized that Maeve was still a threat and that their game was far from over.
Chapter 78 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian Deceives Maeve and Unleashes His Power
Maeve trapped Dorian in a dark net, attempting to manipulate him into giving her the Wyrdkey. However, Dorian had planned for that moment, pretending to be vulnerable while weaving an illusion to deceive her. When Maeve believed she had control, Dorian unleashed his true power, trapping her in an abyss of scorching fire. As Morath’s fortress began to crumble, Maeve begged for her life, but Dorian showed a mercy she would never have shown. Instead of condemning her to an eternity of suffering, he stripped her of her ability to travel between worlds, leaving her powerless. With the Wyrdkeys in his possession, Dorian took the form of a wyvern and flew north, leaving the destruction of Morath behind. He had taken the first step toward redeeming Adarlan and changing the destiny of his kingdom.
Chapter 79 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Elide Decides Vernon’s Fate
Elide accompanied Yrene as she healed the wounded in the Ferian Gap. Despite her disgust, Elide helped maintain the soldiers’ balance while Yrene healed their injuries. Later, Borte took Elide to the Northern Fang, where Vernon, her uncle, was imprisoned. Aelin offered Elide the opportunity to decide his fate. Facing her past, Elide showed fierce calm as she made it clear that Vernon no longer had power over her. Aelin interrogated Vernon, who revealed that Maeve had joined Erawan, confirming their worst fears. In the end, Aelin let Elide make the decision. Although Vernon begged for mercy, Elide ordered that he be left chained and forgotten, ensuring that he would never threaten anyone again. Aelin and Rowan, aware of the new threat, knew that the final confrontation with Maeve and Erawan was inevitable.
Chapter 80 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin Faces the Truth About Maeve and Erawan
Aelin struggled to process the news that Maeve had allied with Erawan. Although Vernon claimed that Maeve had arrived alone, without her army, Aelin suspected that this was part of a more complex plan. With each word from Vernon, the weight of the threat over Orynth grew. Morath’s forces were already marching toward the capital, with a hundred thousand soldiers ready to attack. Although her army was at least two weeks away, Aelin knew they could not arrive in time to prevent the destruction. After leaving Vernon chained to suffer the same fate he had imposed on Elide, Aelin confessed her fears to Rowan. Together, they looked upon the allied army gathered, aware that the final battle was near. Although Aelin trusted in the strength of her allies, a lingering doubt remained in her heart: would it be enough to save Terrasen from the fate that was coming?
Chapter 81 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion and Lysandra’s Hope
Aedion and Ren shared a moment of reflection by the fire, facing the uncertainty of the imminent siege on Orynth as Morath’s campfires covered the horizon. That night, Aedion visited Evangeline, who couldn’t sleep out of fear, and told her a story about his own fears before his first battle, comforting her with words of courage. The next day, Lysandra took the girl to the Great Hall, where Darrow, showing unexpected empathy, asked her to help as a messenger during the battle. At dawn, Aedion prepared for the fight, but just when defeat seemed inevitable, thirteen wyverns appeared in the sky. Manon Blackbeak and the Thirteen, leading thousands of Crochan witches with their red capes billowing in the wind, flew toward Orynth. Their arrival ignited hope among Terrasen’s defenders, reminding them that the battle was not yet lost and that the resistance would continue.
Chapter 82 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Crochans Respond to Manon’s Call
The Crochans arrived in Orynth after a long flight, their appearance shocking the Ironteeth and Morath’s army. Manon, crowned as the Crochan queen, assumed leadership and rallied her forces to face the enemy witches. That night, the Thirteen reaffirmed their loyalty to Manon, preparing for what could be their last battle. Meanwhile, Evangeline, inspired by the Crochans, expressed her desire to become a witch like them, seeking purpose amid the horrors of war. Lysandra, unable to sleep, found Aedion in the Great Hall, where he confessed his desire to kiss her if they survived. Although Lysandra didn’t give a definitive answer, the promise of facing danger together gave them a glimmer of hope. As the first light of dawn broke, the Crochans took to the skies, ready to prove that witches were not only creatures of destruction but also of courage and redemption.
Chapter 83 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian Summons Gavin One Last Time
After two days of flight, Dorian rested in a clearing and, with the intention of saying goodbye to Gavin, summoned him one last time. The spirit of the ancient king appeared, grateful for the chance to say farewell to Elena before the creation of the Lock. Dorian, aware of the imminent sacrifice, confessed that he still didn’t know who would bear that burden, though he hoped Aelin would find another solution. Gavin, with words of wisdom and resignation, wished Dorian a life filled with love and meaning. However, their conversation was interrupted when Dorian sensed the presence of a legion of Ironteeth witches flying north. Realizing the danger approaching Orynth, Dorian took the form of a wyvern and infiltrated the enemy ranks, determined to reach his allies in time and face the fate awaiting him in the final battle.
Chapter 84 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Final Battle Approaches
On the cold morning of Orynth, Manon watched as Morath’s army prepared for the assault, while the Crochans awaited the signal to take flight. Bronwen, with the ancient horn of Telyn Vanora, blew it, marking the beginning of the battle. Manon, along with the Thirteen, led the Crochan witches against the Ironteeth in the sky, while on the ground Lysandra, transformed into a sea creature, emerged from the Florine River to attack the enemy forces from the water, wreaking havoc on the eastern flank. Aedion and Ren commanded the defense from the walls, using fire-tipped spears to hold back the endless waves of Valg soldiers. Though Terrasen’s forces showed resilience, the arrival of a Valg prince with a black collar and eyes filled with power shifted the course of the battle. The threat was evident, and the hope of victory hung by a thread as Orynth faced its destiny.
Chapter 85 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Manon and the Thirteen Against the Ironteeth
Manon and the Thirteen soared into the sky to face the Ironteeth in a fierce battle. Riding Abraxos, Manon led the attack with lethal precision, her arrows piercing enemy wyverns. Iskra Yellowlegs commanded Morath’s resistance, but the Crochans, fueled by centuries of pain and vengeance, fought with unmatched ferocity. On the ground, Lysandra continued her assault from the river, disrupting enemy lines with swift strikes. Aedion and Ren defended the walls, using fire as their greatest weapon, but Morath’s advance seemed unstoppable. The situation turned even more dire with the appearance of the Valg prince, whose dark power threatened to break Orynth’s defenses. Manon, aware of the battle’s magnitude, realized that the only way to win was to fight to the end, no matter the cost. The war for Terrasen was far from over, and every decision made could seal the fate of them all.
Chapter 86 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion Against the Valg Prince
Aedion, wounded but determined to defend Orynth, faced a Valg prince advancing along the walls. The demon, clad in black robes, displayed brutal ferocity as he attacked, but Aedion resisted, using an ancient shield that repelled dark magic. Though the Valg’s strength surpassed his own, Aedion fought valiantly, wounding the prince several times before suffering a severe wound to his side. Just when it seemed the prince would win, an arrow pierced his throat, and a fire-tipped spear from Ren reduced him to ashes. Aedion, weakened, fell unconscious as the battle raged on. Meanwhile, Evangeline, terrified and clinging to the hope that Aedion would survive, fulfilled her task of delivering messages to Darrow, who, upon learning of Aedion’s condition, decided to keep the girl safe by his side, fearing that Orynth might not hold out much longer.
Chapter 87 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin and Dorian’s Reunion
The khagan’s army was marching toward Terrasen, but its slow pace worried Aelin, who longed to reach Orynth before it was too late. During the journey, they passed near Endovier, a place that brought painful memories to Aelin. Though she considered destroying it, she decided to move on, knowing that her true duty was to protect her kingdom. That night, Rowan finished a new tattoo on Aelin’s back, as they both reflected on the past and the future that awaited them. Meanwhile, Elide and Lorcan strengthened their bond, sharing an intimate moment that drew them even closer. As the army camped near Endovier, a wyvern appeared in the sky, causing alarm among the ranks. However, Aelin recognized the figure descending: it was Dorian, who had returned with the three Wyrdkeys. His arrival renewed the army’s hope, though Aelin knew that the sacrifice to come would be inevitable.
Chapter 88 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion Discovers the Threat in the Tunnels
Aedion, weakened but determined to keep fighting, rose after receiving treatment for his wounds and returned to Orynth’s walls. The situation was desperate: Terrasen’s forces were fighting valiantly, but Morath continued to send endless waves of soldiers. Lysandra, wounded but tireless, fought from the river in her sea dragon form, wreaking havoc on enemy lines. Aedion, observing the battle from the battlements, discovered that Morath had found an underground entrance through the tunnels leading to the heart of the city. He shouted orders to stop the infiltration, but the threat was imminent. In the sky, Manon and the Thirteen received the signal to return to the walls, but before they could act, Iskra Yellowlegs ambushed Abraxos, leaving Manon in mortal danger. Meanwhile, the situation in Orynth grew increasingly critical, and Aedion realized that time was running out.
Chapter 89 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Petrah’s Sacrifice and Morath’s Witch Tower Approaches
Iskra Yellowlegs trapped Abraxos in a brutal attack, and Manon, desperate to save him, tried to negotiate his life in exchange for her wyvern’s freedom. However, Iskra merely mocked her plea, delighting in Manon and Abraxos’s suffering. Just when all seemed lost, Petrah Blueblood arrived to confront Iskra. In an act of sacrifice, Petrah struck down Iskra and her wyvern, killing them both in their fall to the ground. Manon, though devastated, had no time to mourn the loss, as the battle in Orynth continued. Abraxos, gravely wounded, barely managed to reach the battlements where Manon and the Thirteen defended him. Meanwhile, Lysandra brought terrifying news: Morath’s witch tower had been reactivated and was advancing toward the city, threatening to destroy Orynth. Manon, seeing the danger, realized that the Thirteen would be the last hope to stop the tower.
Chapter 90 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Sacrifice of the Thirteen and Manon’s Devastation
The Thirteen, led by Asterin, made the decision to sacrifice themselves to destroy Morath’s witch tower. Manon, heartbroken, tried to stop them, but Asterin reminded her that their duty was to protect Terrasen and fulfill their destiny as witches. One by one, the Thirteen flew toward the tower, facing the Ironteeth with unstoppable fury. Despite their bravery, they fell in battle as Asterin, with her last breath, unleashed a Yielding that destroyed the tower and killed Manon’s grandmother. The explosion of light illuminated the battlefield, sealing the Thirteen’s sacrifice and changing the course of the war. Manon, devastated by the loss of her sisters, knelt among the ashes, while Abraxos, wounded, shielded her with his wing. The silence that followed was a tribute to the Thirteen, whose bravery and sacrifice would be remembered forever in Terrasen’s history.
Chapter 91 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Khagan’s Army and Aelin’s Decision
Dorian watched in awe as the khagan’s army advanced north, accompanied by the imposing Darghan cavalry and the majestic ruks flying overhead. His heart pounded as he recognized the soldiers he had studied all his life and felt a mix of relief and tension, knowing that Chaol had succeeded in his mission. Dorian landed near the crossroads and saw Aelin gallop toward him, followed by Rowan and Elide. Their reunion was brief, as Aelin immediately asked about Manon, and Dorian assured her that she was in Terrasen with the Crochans. When Chaol arrived, he embraced Dorian tightly, introducing him to Yrene, his wife and healer, whose magic had restored his ability to walk. However, the joy of the moment faded when Dorian revealed the three Wyrdkeys, recounting everything he had faced to obtain them. Aelin proposed two options: continue to Terrasen for the final battle or forge the Lock immediately to seal the Wyrd portal. The discussion was intense and filled with uncertainty, but most decided that the Lock had to be forged as soon as possible, knowing that the price would be high. Although Rowan and Chaol resisted, Aelin knew her fate was sealed. When Elide asked how she voted, Aelin simply replied that her vote did not matter, hiding the pain she carried in her heart.
Chapter 92 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Rowan’s Proposal and Aelin and Dorian’s Decision
That night, camped near Endovier, Aelin distanced herself from the rest of the group, unable to find comfort in their company. Rowan, always attuned to her emotions, followed her, trying to convince her that there was another way. But Aelin, overwhelmed by the weight of her destiny, resigned herself to sacrificing her life to seal the Wyrd portal. Rowan, desperate not to lose her, proposed sharing the burden of the Lock with Dorian, recalling how their powers had fused when they destroyed the glass castle. Aelin, though fearful, began to consider the possibility that together they could divide the cost of the sacrifice. That same night, she woke Dorian to propose forging the Lock together. Despite the fear and uncertainty, Dorian accepted without hesitation, understanding that their sacrifice could save everyone. They decided to act before dawn to avoid painful goodbyes, and when Aelin asked if he wanted Chaol present, Dorian, after reflecting, agreed. Both knew that what they were about to do would change Erilea’s destiny forever.
Chapter 93 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Journey to Endovier and Preparation for the Lock
Aelin, Rowan, Dorian, and Chaol advanced silently toward the salt mines of Endovier, a place filled with painful memories for Aelin. As they walked along the cobblestone path, shadows of her past enveloped her, reminding her of the suffering she had endured there. Rowan remained by her side, holding her hand firmly, offering silent comfort. Upon arriving at the ruins of the entrance, Aelin felt a heaviness in her chest at the sight of the remains of what had once been her prison. Dorian, aware of the place’s significance, broke the silence, commenting on the irony of returning there to end everything. They stopped at the center of the courtyard where Aelin had endured countless punishments. There, Aelin and Dorian began tracing the Wyrdmarks on the frozen ground, preparing for the ritual. Rowan, unable to step away, sealed the Wyrdmarks into the ground, while Aelin and Dorian, with bloodied hands, united their magic to forge the Lock. But instead of an explosion of power, their bodies remained still, as if their souls were being torn away, and Rowan felt his bond with Aelin begin to strain, filling him with fear.
Chapter 94 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Creation of the Lock and Aelin and Dorian’s Sacrifice
Aelin and Dorian were transported to an impossible space where all realities converged, surrounded by countless doors to other worlds. There, they began to pour their power into forming the Lock, an object that would seal the Wyrd portal forever. The energy they gave was consumed rapidly, leaving them empty and on the brink of collapse. Aelin felt her very existence fading as the Lock, taking shape in gold and silver, absorbed everything they were. Dorian, equally drained, tried to resist, but the pain was unbearable. When it seemed there was no turning back, a figure appeared from one of the doors: Dorian’s father, who had been freed by Damaris’s magic. With a mix of humanity and regret, the man offered his help to complete the process, leaving open a small possibility of changing fate. His father’s presence, filled with sorrow, shocked Dorian, while Aelin, exhausted but determined, began to realize that perhaps not everything was lost.
Chapter 95 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian’s Father’s Sacrifice and Aelin’s Final Decision
In the midst of the sacrifice, Dorian’s father appeared, filled with regret and pain, offering his help to complete the Lock. Though he had been a cruel man under Erawan’s control, he now showed a humanity and love that Dorian had never known. Aware of the fate awaiting his son, the man asked Dorian to let him pay the debt of their family, offering his own life to seal the portal. Dorian, torn between hatred and forgiveness, saw the sacrifice as an opportunity to redeem his family’s name. Aelin, understanding the gravity of the situation, accepted Dorian’s father’s help, knowing that someone had to stay behind. However, before Dorian could react, Aelin made the decision for him, pushing him through one of the Wyrd’s doors, returning him to Erilea. Dorian fell, leaving behind the realm of mist, while he saw Aelin and his father completing the Lock. The final sacrifice had been made, and Aelin, with tears in her eyes, accepted her destiny with courage, knowing that her act of love and sacrifice would ensure peace for her people.
Chapter 96 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Sacrifice and Fate’s Betrayal
Rowan and Chaol watched in horror as Aelin and Dorian remained motionless while forging the Lock. However, at dawn, Dorian returned to reality, gasping and falling to his knees, but Aelin remained still. Rowan, feeling their bond fading, understood the truth: Aelin had planned everything to sacrifice herself alone. Dorian, with tears in his eyes, explained that their joint sacrifice would not have been enough, and that his father, invoked by Damaris, had taken his place alongside Aelin to complete the task. Rowan, devastated, realized that Aelin would never have allowed another to die for her. With the support of the nameless king, Aelin drained the last spark of her magic to seal the Lock. The king, before disappearing forever, conveyed a message from her parents: that they were proud of her. When the Lock was completed, Aelin was left empty, her magic extinguished, and her fate sealed, leaving Rowan with unbearable emptiness.
Chapter 97 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Last Bargain with the Gods
Aelin, nearly lifeless and engulfed in an absolute void, saw the gods appear, led by Deanna, demanding their world to return home. Among them, she saw Elena, trapped and suffering. Aelin, remembering the gods’ promise to take Erawan, decided to make one last bargain: Elena’s release in exchange for Erawan remaining in Erilea for mortals to defeat. Despite Elena’s pleas, Aelin stood firm, wishing to give her the peace she had longed for. However, Deanna, relentless, destroyed Elena in a flash of light, ignoring the bargain. The gods, indifferent, left one by one, abandoning Aelin with the certainty that everything had been in vain. The gods’ betrayal left Aelin hopeless, feeling she had lost everything, trapped in utter loneliness and with no way back home.
Chapter 98 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Mala’s Last Gift and Aelin’s Return
Rowan felt his bond with Aelin fade, leaving an unbearable emptiness in his soul. Meanwhile, Aelin, in that place between worlds, watched the gods crossing into their realm, but Mala, the goddess of fire, stopped and offered her one last gift: a spark of power, a seed of light. Mala reminded Aelin of her lineage and pointed out that the tattoo Rowan had etched on her back contained Wyrdmarks, a map to return home. With one last act of strength, Aelin used Mala’s power to seal the portal, trapping the gods forever and closing all doors to other worlds. Exhausted but determined, she used the remaining spark to find her way back to Erilea, leaping toward her destiny. Rowan, kneeling beside her motionless body, felt her return as their bond was restored. Aelin opened her eyes, weak but alive, with only an ember of magic left within her—just enough to remember who she was and what she had accomplished.
Chapter 99 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Fall Through Worlds and Her Return
Aelin fell through unknown worlds, witnessing impossible landscapes that faded before her eyes. In one of those worlds, she saw a winged man and a pregnant woman gazing at the stars, who, in some way, helped her continue her journey. Finally, Aelin glimpsed Erilea and, with one last effort, clung to her world. Rowan, who had lost all hope, felt a spark in their bond and saw Aelin return, collapsing at his side. With tears in his eyes, Rowan held her as she awakened, feeling her magic reduced to a tiny ember. Aelin, now without the power that once defined her, accepted her new reality. She was no longer the bearer of fire, but she was still Aelin, with the spark of life that would allow her to rebuild her world. Rowan, overwhelmed with emotion, embraced her, grateful to have her back.
Chapter 100 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion’s Resilience and Preparation for the Final Battle
Aedion woke at dawn, tired and sore after days of battle, but determination kept him standing. Kyllian led him to the north tower, where Lysandra, exhausted but steadfast, awaited news. Though the pain of losing the Thirteen and the lives sacrificed weighed heavily on his heart, Aedion and Lysandra found solace in their closeness, sharing a moment of silent intimacy before facing another day of fighting. Meanwhile, Manon, devastated by the loss of the Thirteen, refused to rest, leading the Crochans with fierce determination. Evangeline, determined to help, delivered an urgent message to Lord Darrow, who, along with the other lords, was planning the defense against Morath’s new threat. Murtaugh, despite his advanced age, took command to protect the city, inspiring everyone with his bravery. As the sun rose over Orynth, Aedion and the others prepared to face the final battle, knowing that the fate of Terrasen hung by a thread.
Chapter 101 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Return and the Revelation of Her New Self
Aelin returned to the camp feeling different, now permanently immortal, with pointed ears and a body altered by her journey through worlds. Rowan never left her side as they walked silently through Oakwald, though Aelin still glimpsed flashes of the worlds she had visited. Upon arriving at the camp, they were greeted by Lorcan, Fenrys, Gavriel, and Elide, who immediately noticed the change in her. Aelin confirmed that the gods were gone and that although she had closed the Wyrd portal, she had exchanged Elena’s freedom for leaving Erawan in Erilea, causing concern among the others. In the war tent, Dorian, Chaol, and Yrene discussed the consequences of that sacrifice, while Aelin, bathing alongside Elide, reflected on her loss of magic. Borte interrupted to ask to join Aelin’s flank in the next battle, showing her unwavering loyalty. As the storm raged, the khaganate’s army prepared to advance, with Sartaq determined to fulfill his promise to reach Orynth.
Chapter 102 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Murtaugh’s Funeral and Ren’s Grief
Murtaugh’s body lay in a candlelit room near the Great Hall, where Ren knelt silently, consumed by grief. Murtaugh had died defending Orynth’s walls, allowing the defenders to destroy Morath’s siege tower. Lysandra watched from the doorway as Aedion consoled Ren, who could barely stand. Later, Aedion, exhausted and filled with guilt, tried to find comfort in Lysandra, who held him and offered words of support. In a moment of desperation, Aedion and Lysandra shared a kiss filled with pain and need, clinging to life amidst the chaos. Meanwhile, Manon and the leaders gathered to discuss their dwindling options. Lord Darrow warned that provisions were running out and that fire lances were nearly depleted. Aedion insisted that they would fight to the end, aware that the final battle was approaching and that Orynth’s fate hung by a thread.
Chapter 103 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Storm and the Warning from the Lord of the North
The khaganate’s army was trapped by an unrelenting storm less than eighty kilometers from Terrasen, delaying their arrival at Orynth. Rowan, worried, reflected on the situation while Aelin, exhausted, rested beside him. Though her magic had diminished, Rowan loved her beyond her power. Fenrys and Lorcan debated whether the storm was also affecting Morath’s forces, but no one could be sure. Suddenly, a rukhin scout led the group to the edge of the camp, where the Lord of the North, a majestic stag with golden antlers, appeared, accompanied by the Little Folk. The Oakwald dryad warned them that destruction would soon reach Orynth, urging Aelin to hasten. Back at the tent, Aelin found the key to saving her kingdom in an ancient book brought by Chaol and Yrene. With renewed determination, Aelin and Rowan prepared for the final march to Orynth.
Chapter 104 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Orynth’s Resistance and Aedion’s Desperation
Aedion, covered in blood and exhausted, watched from Orynth’s walls as Morath’s army retreated at nightfall, only to return the next day. Erawan sought not just victory, but Terrasen’s complete surrender. The city’s defenses were at their limit, and Aedion knew that each passing day brought them closer to defeat. Lysandra, in her wyvern form, descended to offer him comfort, and in a moment of relief, they shared a kiss that reflected both their desperation and hope. Meanwhile, Lord Darrow formally recognized Lysandra as Lady of Caraverre and named Evangeline her heir, giving her hope for a better future. However, the situation remained dire. In the rookery tower, Manon gazed at the horizon, knowing that the final battle was near. The bone drums echoed in the night, announcing Morath’s next attack and Orynth’s uncertain fate.
Chapter 105 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Last Hope: Aelin’s Return
The battle in Orynth reached its climax, with Lysandra fighting fiercely in her wyvern form and the Crochans and Ironteeth resisting valiantly. However, Morath continued pushing its forces toward the walls, edging closer to victory. Aedion, wounded and exhausted, defended the west gate alongside Lysandra, aware that defeat was imminent. Manon, from the skies, blew the horn to order a retreat, knowing they needed to regroup within the walls for one last chance to resist. Just when all seemed lost, a horn echoed from the south, halting the battle. Aedion and Lysandra turned to see a line of golden warriors marching toward them, followed by an immense fleet of ruks filling the sky. At the front, leading the army they so desperately needed, mounted on the Lord of the North, was Aelin, her sword raised and the ruby in its hilt shining like a sun, ready to change the course of the war.
Chapter 106 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Army and the Charge of the Lord of the North
Aelin’s army, guided by the Lord of the North and the Little Folk, marched tirelessly for six days through Oakwald’s hidden paths, moving stealthily to surprise Morath. As dawn illuminated the hills bordering Orynth, Aelin, mounted on the majestic stag, led the army into the final battle. The sight of Orynth devastated by chaos filled Aelin with pain, but seeing the Crochans and Manon fulfilling their promise to defend the city gave her hope that they were not yet defeated. Without speeches, Aelin gave the order, and the khaganate’s army descended like a golden wave, clashing against Morath’s ranks. The Ironteeth witches, caught between the Crochans and Aelin’s army, struggled to maintain their position, but the combined strength of the darghan soldiers, the ruks, and the Terrasen warriors was unstoppable. The battle for Orynth had begun, and Aelin, with Goldryn in hand, was ready to save her home.
Chapter 107 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Rowan’s Fury and the Sacrifice at the Western Gate
Rowan fought fiercely, carving a path through Morath’s hordes, while Aelin, mounted on the Lord of the North, advanced relentlessly. Despite the chaos, Rowan kept his gaze on her, determined to protect her at all costs. Fenrys, Lorcan, and Gavriel fought alongside him, equally determined to defend Terrasen. Elsewhere on the battlefield, Aedion and his Bane resisted at the western gate, facing endless waves of enemies. When all seemed lost, a dead wyvern fell, blocking the entrance and giving the defenders a brief respite. The warrior who jumped off the wyvern and ran toward Aedion was none other than Gavriel, his father. Father and son, fighting side by side, managed to close the breach. However, when Gavriel crossed the gate to hold back the Valg, he asked Aedion to seal it, sacrificing himself to protect his son and Terrasen.
Chapter 108 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Gavriel’s Sacrifice and Aedion’s Grief
Gavriel and Aedion fought together to close the western gate, but the Lion knew that there was only one way to secure victory. While Aedion pushed the gate to close it, Gavriel crossed to the other side, sacrificing himself to keep the Valg at bay. Aedion, unable to stop him, watched as his father was trapped among the enemy horde, fighting until his last breath. Gavriel died surrounded by enemies, his golden shield shining until the end. Rowan, arriving at the scene, found Gavriel’s body and, with a broken heart, carried him back to the city, while Aedion, devastated, followed him. Gavriel’s sacrifice secured the gate but left Aedion consumed by grief. The battle continued, but the price they had paid was too high. Gavriel’s loss weighed heavily on their hearts as Orynth’s fate still hung by a thread.
Chapter 109 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Yrene’s Decision and Morath’s Advance
Chaol and Dorian rode toward the southern gate, exhausted but determined to continue the fight. Upon arrival, they saw Morath’s forces advancing relentlessly. Inside Orynth, Aelin, wounded and exhausted, took a brief respite alongside Ansel of Briarcliff, while Yrene and Elide watched the battlefield from the ramparts. Fear gripped them as they saw Maeve and Erawan approaching, leading a new army toward the city. Panic spread among the defenders, but Aelin, firm and resolute, stood before the southern gate, ready to face her enemies. Though her magic was nearly extinguished, Aelin raised her sword, determined to buy time for her allies. Elide understood that their only hope rested in Yrene, who had to act before it was too late.
Chapter 110 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Final Deception and Yrene’s Ultimate Decision
Aelin faced Maeve and Erawan before Orynth’s southern gate, aware that she could not win but determined to delay them to buy time for her allies. With clever words, she sowed doubt among her enemies, hinting that Maeve planned to betray Erawan. As they hesitated, Aelin took advantage of the opening to strike. Meanwhile, Rowan, Fenrys, and Lorcan fought desperately to reach her, but Morath’s forces held them back. Inside the city, Elide realized that Aelin was creating an opportunity for Yrene to act. The healer, with fear in her heart, knew that the moment had come to use her gift to destroy Erawan. With her decision made, Yrene prepared to fulfill her destiny, knowing that Terrasen’s fate depended on her. As the battle reached its climax, Orynth’s last hope rested in Yrene Towers’ hands.
Chapter 111 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Yrene’s Ultimate Plan and the Battle Against the Ilken
Nesryn and Sartaq led the rukhin in a fierce battle against the ilken, ruthless winged monsters attacking mercilessly. Flaming arrows rained from the sky as Nesryn took down an ilken, but the creature, feigning death, killed a darghan rider. Despair grew when a new threat appeared: the Valg princesses in kharankui bodies, sent by Erawan. Meanwhile, Yrene, Chaol, and Dorian prepared to execute their plan. Chaol, concerned for Yrene’s safety, tried to convince her to stay behind, but she refused, knowing that her power was the key to destroying Erawan. Mounting Lysandra, in her ruk form, Yrene and Dorian flew toward the castle tower, where they expected to face the dark king. On the battlefield, Manon and Abraxos fought the Ironteeth witches, and Rowan, wounded but determined, headed toward Aelin, who was battling Maeve and Erawan alone.
Chapter 112 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Maeve’s Illusion and Aelin’s Determination
Aelin fought with the last of her strength against Maeve, who cornered her with dark attacks and venomous words. Maeve tried to break her spirit with illusions of her captivity and the pain she had endured, forcing her to relive her time in the iron box. Aelin, trapped in this illusion, saw Cairn preparing to torture her again, but she remembered the vow she had made to Nehemia and found the strength to resist. With unwavering will, Aelin broke the illusion and faced Maeve with renewed fury. When Maeve enveloped her in shadows, Rowan, Lorcan, and Fenrys arrived to free her. However, Maeve unleashed her full dark power, gravely injuring Fenrys and weakening Rowan and Lorcan. Aelin, exhausted but determined, used her bond with Fenrys to awaken him and bring him back to reality. Together, Rowan, Lorcan, and Aelin prepared to deliver the final blow to Maeve.
Chapter 113 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Dorian’s Sacrifice and Erawan’s Defeat
Erawan, convinced of his victory, descended to the castle tower where Yrene awaited him. But what he found was a trap. The figure he believed to be Yrene was Dorian, who had altered his appearance to deceive him. Lysandra, in her ruk form, had left the real Yrene on the balcony, while Dorian reinforced the Wyrdmark to trap Erawan. Without hesitation, Elide plunged Damaris into the dark king’s abdomen while Yrene channeled her healing power to destroy him from within. Despite the pain, Dorian demanded the name of his father, which Erawan had erased. Upon hearing it, Dorian felt a renewed strength and, together with Yrene, unleashed his magic to destroy the Valg king. Erawan screamed as his essence was consumed, and his body disintegrated. Dorian burned Erawan’s ashes, ensuring he would never return. The battle was not yet over, but a great threat had been eliminated.
Chapter 114 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Maeve’s Deception and Aelin’s Nightmare
In a last attempt to destroy Aelin and her allies, Maeve trapped Rowan, Lorcan, and Fenrys in illusions designed to break them. Rowan saw Lyria accusing him of betraying her for Aelin, while Fenrys faced the guilt of Connall’s death. Lorcan, for his part, saw Elide rejecting and despising him. Aelin, trapped in her own nightmare, saw her body impaled on Orynth’s gates while her people abandoned her. Maeve reveled in her victory, but Aelin, remembering the pain she had endured, used her bond with Fenrys to awaken him. Fenrys broke the illusion and freed the others. Together, Aelin, Rowan, and Lorcan faced Maeve. Aelin, with her last power, opened a portal that brought the fae army and the wolf riders. With their arrival, the final battle against Maeve began.
Chapter 115 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Maeve’s Death and the End of Morath
Maeve’s dark blood stained the snow as Fenrys, with Goldryn in hand, had stabbed her in the heart. The dark queen, writhing in pain, tried to pull the sword out, but Rowan and Aelin gave her no chance. Lorcan, with a bitter smile, declared his loyalty to Aelin. Maeve, desperate, tried to negotiate her banishment, but Aelin, without mercy, slipped the Ring of Silba onto her finger. The artifact, which Maeve had coveted to prevent its use, consumed her, revealing her true Valg form. Aelin, with the strength of her legacy, beheaded Maeve and turned her body to ashes. With Maeve’s death and Erawan’s destruction, Morath’s army fell, and the war came to an end. Aelin, holding Goldryn, shouted Yrene’s name, the true heroine who had saved their world. The battle was over, but the rebuilding of Terrasen was only beginning.
Chapter 116 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Beginning of a New Future for Terrasen
Chaol woke up feeling Yrene’s warm hands caressing his face, and as he opened his eyes, he understood that the battle was over. Outside, cheers echoed through the night as Yrene’s name was chanted by those who knew she had saved the world. Chaol, filled with gratitude, embraced Yrene and allowed himself to savor the moment of peace, knowing that his future, with her and the baby they were expecting, was a new promise. Meanwhile, Nesryn and Sartaq watched the fall of Morath from the battlements, but their concern was for Salkhi, their wounded ruk. Despite the destruction that had ravaged Orynth, hope shone in their hearts as Sartaq promised that after the war, they would return together to the Southern Continent. Aelin and Rowan, watching the remnants of the battle, decided to return to Orynth, where they were welcomed as heroes. As Aelin crossed the gates of her home, she knew that the war was over and that a new beginning awaited everyone.
Chapter 117 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aedion’s Grief and the Promise of a Legacy
Aedion found Gavriel’s body in a silent room, illuminated only by a single candle. Kneeling beside his father, the pain of loss consumed him. Lysandra, silent and supportive, knelt beside him, sharing his sorrow. The promise of a worthy burial for Gavriel was the only thing keeping Aedion standing. As they left, Lysandra kissed him softly, offering comfort. Later, Falkan Ennar, a man dressed in the clothes of the rukhin, revealed himself to be Lysandra’s uncle. For years, he had searched for his brother’s daughter, and now, upon finding her, he offered everything he had. But Lysandra, with tears of joy, assured him that she already had everything she needed by Aedion’s side. Meanwhile, Dorian, processing the truth about his father, found solace in Manon’s arms, who was also grappling with the grief of losing the Thirteen. Aelin, after honoring Gavriel’s sacrifice, led her people toward a future filled with hope.
Chapter 118 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – The Beginning of Reconstruction and New Paths
Yrene, exhausted but determined, continued healing the wounded in the Great Hall. Hafiza, the Healer on High, urged her to rest, reminding her that the baby she carried also needed strength. Before retiring, Yrene shared her desire to establish a new Tower in Rifthold to train future healers. Hafiza approved of the idea, acknowledging that Yrene had changed everyone’s destiny. Manon, for her part, grappled with the loss of the Thirteen, while Bronwen offered her a small flower from the Wastes, a symbol of a new beginning for the Crochans and the Ironteeth. With tears in her eyes, Manon placed the flower on the battlefield, honoring her fallen sisters. Aelin and Rowan, walking through the castle of Orynth, reflected on the challenges ahead, knowing that the reconstruction of Terrasen was just beginning, but they trusted that, together, they would succeed.
Chapter 119 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Aelin’s Coronation and Terrasen’s Oath
Ten days after the victory, Orynth prepared for Aelin’s coronation. Lysandra decorated the Great Hall with pine garlands and candles, while Aelin’s allies took their places: Ansel of Briarcliff, Rolfe, Galan Ashryver, and the royalty of the khaganate. Aelin entered wearing a green and silver dress, radiating strength and grace. Upon reaching the throne, Aelin offered her life to Terrasen, and Darrow placed the crown on her head, symbolizing the sacrifice and power that came with her title. The crowd cheered her name, and Aedion, with tears in his eyes, swore his loyalty to his queen. The Little Folk presented Aelin with Mab’s ancient crown, which she placed atop the golden one, accepting her dual legacy as fae queen and queen of Terrasen. As she opened the castle gates and walked among her people, Aelin knew that her journey had come to an end, but the path toward a new future was only beginning.
Chapter 120 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – New Beginnings and Promises for the Future
Two days after the coronation, Nesryn recalled the celebration that had lasted until dawn, where Aelin and Rowan had opened the dance with incomparable grace. Now, in the war room of the khaganate, Sartaq announced that they would soon return to the Southern Continent, but some rukhin would remain in Erilea to train the wyverns of the Ferian Gap. Dorian, grateful for Nesryn’s friendship, bid her farewell with affection. Sartaq reaffirmed his promise to take her home as empress. Meanwhile, Chaol, after receiving a letter from his mother filled with love and pride, decided to build a bigger house for his family in Rifthold. Dorian found Manon preparing Abraxos for flight, suggesting that she return to Rifthold to help train the wyverns and maintain peace. Although Manon did not give a direct answer, Dorian felt a renewed hope as he watched her depart, knowing that the future, at last, belonged to them.
Chapter 121 Summary – Kingdom of Ash – Farewells and New Beginnings
Rowan knew the day would be difficult for Aelin, as the time had come to bid farewell to those who had fought alongside them. Although Aelin had asked her friends to stay a little longer until spring, everyone except Rolfe decided to depart. The Ironteeth witches and the Crochans were the first to leave, followed by the royalty of the khaganate. The most emotional farewell was that of Yrene and Chaol, who promised to return for the birth of Aelin’s first child. Dorian and Chaol exchanged embraces filled with promises to rebuild the world together. Aelin, watching from the battlements, felt the weight of the farewells, but Rowan remained by her side, offering his silent strength. That night, the court tattooed Gavriel’s name as a tribute to the fallen warrior, and Aedion, with tears in his eyes, added his name to the Terrasen knot on his skin. At the end of the day, Aelin and Rowan, hand in hand, returned to the castle, knowing that together, they would face whatever challenges the future might bring.
Epilogue Summary – Kingdom of Ash – A Better World for Terrasen and Beyond
Winter gave way to a spring that brought hope and renewal. Orynth buzzed with the sound of hammers as reconstruction progressed swiftly. The fae and wolf riders worked alongside the humans to rebuild the city, while new alliances blossomed. Aelin sent a letter to Nehemia’s parents, expressing her desire to honor her legacy and work together for a better world. The response she received, filled with hope, reaffirmed her commitment to that future. As spring covered the Staghorn Mountains, Aelin and Rowan worked tirelessly with their court to restore their kingdom. One morning, Aelin awoke and, stepping onto the balcony, gazed at a sunrise that reflected the beauty of all they had achieved. Rowan, beside her, whispered that all this rebirth was thanks to her. Aelin’s tears were not of sorrow but of joy, for she knew that, at last, they had built a better world.
Conclusion – Kingdom of Ash
The ending of Kingdom of Ash isn’t written in ink—it’s etched in scars. Every chapter of this full summary uncovers a battle both internal and external, where the price of freedom is so high it marks even the ones who survive. Sarah J. Maas doesn’t close her saga with easy victories, but with a shattering truth: no triumph comes without loss.
Aelin, Manon, Dorian, Chaol, and so many others fight not just armies, but the weight of their choices. Some find redemption; others face consequences they will carry forever. What began as a tale of assassins and crowns ends as an epic forged in pain, resilience, and a power born of love.
But this fantasy universe doesn’t end here. If you’re ready to explore equally intense, epic, or soul-stirring sagas, take the next step beyond these pages in the following section: Other sagas from the blog ➤
FAQs – Chapter by Chapter Summary – Kingdom of Ash
How does Aelin manage to survive the torture in Kingdom of Ash without breaking?
Aelin endures months of relentless torture by holding onto her memories, her promise to Terrasen, and her bond with Fenrys. Despite the physical and emotional torment inflicted by Cairn, she refuses to take the blood oath to Maeve, knowing it would doom her kingdom. Her internal strength comes from clinging to images of her mother’s voice, her love for Rowan, and the lives depending on her. The pain becomes a kind of rhythm she withstands, while her silence becomes an act of rebellion. It’s not just magic that keeps her going—it’s her refusal to be erased.
Why is Fenrys’ rebellion crucial to Aelin’s rescue and to the plot overall?
Fenrys’ defiance of the blood oath to Maeve is one of the most powerful turning points in the story. Watching Aelin suffer in silence breaks him, and he chooses to risk his life and shatter the magical bond controlling him. By doing so, he initiates the chain of events that allow Aelin to escape. His sacrifice is more than physical bravery—it’s a moral stand, one that reaffirms loyalty, love, and choice over submission. This moment reshapes the dynamic of the group and proves that even the most binding magic can be undone through sheer will.
What does the disappearance of Aelin’s scars symbolize after her rescue?
When Aelin is finally freed, her scars are gone—wiped clean by magic. At first it seems like healing, but it’s actually a chilling reminder of how deeply she’s been violated. Those scars told her story, marked her survival, and embodied her resistance. Their absence is not a gift—it’s an erasure. Her skin might look untouched, but her spirit is battered. It’s a moment of haunting silence: she’s free, but not whole. This detail lingers throughout the rest of the book, showing how some wounds, even when invisible, cut the deepest.
How does Aelin’s absence impact Terrasen’s army and the relationship between Aedion and Lysandra?
Aelin’s disappearance forces Lysandra to impersonate her in public, a risky move that helps keep morale up but fractures her bond with Aedion. Under pressure, exhaustion, and rising casualties, Aedion begins to resent Lysandra’s role. Their arguments grow increasingly personal, culminating in harsh accusations and emotional distance. Their broken alliance reflects the fragile unity among Terrasen’s forces—just one more front in a war that’s not just military, but psychological. Without their queen, everyone is pushed to the edge, and not all relationships survive it.
What does Manon’s reunion with the Crochans reveal about her identity and future role?
Manon’s return to the Crochans is more than a political move—it’s a personal reckoning. She must confront the legacy of violence she was raised in and the blood she has spilled. Her decision to lure the Ironteeth to the Crochans’ camp is ethically grey but effective—it forces unity in the face of war. Through Glennis and the Flame of War ritual, Manon is offered a path not only to leadership but redemption. Her arc shows that destiny isn’t inherited—it’s forged by the choices you make when everything is on the line.



























Comments