Page 202 of A Kingdom of Wild and Power
‘This,’ Eris said sweetly, ‘is a token of my appreciation.’
She gave a small nod.
The witches hauled Arden and Ylva further forward, dragging them into the open where those watching from Velunthar could see clearly. They forced both prisoners down onto their knees, facing one another, their hands bound tightly behind their backs.
A warlock stepped behind Ylva, while another took position behind Arden. Both raised their hands and conjured long blades of steel. Witches had summoned such weapons countless times in battle, blades forged from magic and fury alike.
But Hagan knew this was different.
These swords were not meant for war.
They were meant for spectacle.
For sacrifice.
He strode towards Eris and seized her arm, his grip tightening so fiercely he was almost surprised the bone did not crack beneath his fingers.
‘What is the meaning of this?’
Eris did not even flinch.
‘We must dispose of our prisoners, Hagan. Or did you intend to keep her?’
‘No, but—’
Shearched a brow, studying him with mild amusement. ‘Don’t tell me you’ve grown fond of her. You, who so proudly claim not to possess a soul.’
‘I need her,’ he said sharply. ‘She is helping me with something.’
‘With those dusty old texts?’ Eris tilted her head, curious.
‘Yes.’
‘About the God-Killer.’
Hagan stiffened.
‘And tell me, Hagan,’ she went on softly, ‘why are you so eager to learn about the God-Killer?’
‘Knowledge may be useful someday.’
‘Perhaps.’ Eris nodded thoughtfully. ‘But you wouldn’t be planning to destroy me, would you? Or any of the other gods?’ Her smile widened. ‘Surely not. After all, it was thanks to the gods that you have achieved… all of this.’ She spread her arms wide, gesturing towards the assembled army, the barren field, the looming mountain of Velunthar.
‘I arranged this final part for you,’ she continued. ‘A sacrifice to the gods, offered in your name. In gratitude for everything they have given you.’
Hagan turned just in time to see the two warlocks raise their swords high.
His breath caught.
Horror surged through him as the blades gleamed in the light.
Hagan stepped forward, his purple eyes wide.
Ylva screamed, tears streaming down her face.
‘I’m sorry,’ she sobbed.
‘For what, little wolf?’ Arden asked quietly.
