Twenty-year-old Tarquin is smart, tactless, and braver than he knows. He's also been Mage of the Realm of Kelor for two years, taking the title from his mother after she died protecting Kelor from a terrible threat. Mages, unlike all other magicians, give their blood in exchange for far more powerful magic. Unfortunately for the Mage of the Realm, there's always the chance one day Kelor will need magic of such potency that a mage will have to give not just their blood, but their life. Tarquin's mother already made this sacrifice, and Tarquin knows it's likely also his fate. While on a quest to heal his brother, who is dying because of Tarquin's reckless mistake, Tarquin is attacked by a horrific, flesh-eating monster. He's saved by an enigmatic and mute young soldier, called "Five", who is cursed with a terrifying appearance that conceals the heart of a knight. There's an almost instant attraction between the two men, but no time to explore it. The monster's attack is the harbinger of a new invasion. With Kelor helpless, the realm's only hope lies with Tarquin. Just as he feared, his sole choice is to sacrifice himself the way his mother did, in exchange for magic strong enough to destroy the coming evil. He's prepared to give up his life to save the realm, but before the battle is over, he'll be faced not just with his own death, but the death of everyone he cares about. Including the cursed soldier he's come to love.

Blood for Magic

“I did say only if necessary,” Isobel said. “However, it may become so, depending on Ainya’s information.”


“Wars make friends,” Prea said. “Surely the vyr will realize that ultimately they’re in as much danger as we are.”


“I’m sure they will,” Isobel said. “But hopefully that’s an avenue we won’t have to pursue.” She looked at Elora. “What are our other options?”


“I’d like to put out notice for volunteer fighters,” Elora said. “Along with recalling the soldiers we released. At least from the closest cantons. I can also contact the nearest firu grists. I’m sure warriors will come.”


Isobel nodded. “Make sure to call back the soldiers we released the earliest first. Thank you.” She looked at the rest of the table. “Anyone else?”


“The seminaries,” Prea said. “The adepts and more skilled craftlings of the different orders should be able to help.”


Chapter 37