It was like the calm just as one engaged in battle, Will thought, when thought fled and inevitability took over.

The warlock's gaze, on the flames, was remote and distant, as if he were looking back into the past. Simon couldn't help but remember what Magnus had said to him once, about living forever: Someday you and I will be the only two left.

All my life, since I came to the Institute, you were the mirror of my soul. I saw the good in me in you. In your eyes alone I found grace. When you are gone from me, who will see me like that?

Jace shook his blond head in exasperation. "You had to make a crazy jail friend, didn't you? You couldn't just count ceiling tiles or tame a pet mouse like normal prisoners do?

I don't care what you do. As long as you know you belong to me.

He kissed each finger, and with each one of them spoken a word. Five kisses, five words. His last.

One must always be careful of books," said Tessa, "and what is inside them, for words have the power to change us.