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

Prea leaned up and kissed Ainya’s cheek. “Twin Makers protect you, sister.”


“You as well,” Ainya pulled her into a tight hug. When Ainya hugged Tarquin next, he could practically feel his ribs creak, but he hugged her back as hard as he could despite her burns. He was sure he’d never see Ainya or his mother again.


Ainya and Five clasped forearms, mingling their wounds. “Peace, or a strong sword arm,” Ainya said.


“Tarquin.” To his surprise, Isobel kissed him on the cheek. “Gods keep you, too. And you,” she said to Prea, and kissed her as well. “May the Mother and Father look kindly on all of us.”


Tarquin’s throat was almost too tight to speak. “You, too, Mama.”


“Mage Tarquin is not to use the Kawj,” Isobel ordered Five. “Do whatever is necessary to keep him away from it.”


Five nodded sharply, but his gaze slid to Tarquin and then away.


Tarquin stepped back with his jaw and hands clenched, watching Ainya and his mother go.


Chapter 77