To My Dearest Orpheus,
By the time you read this, I'll already be gone. I'm sorry for leaving like this, but I need you to understand the truth. There's so much I kept hidden, so many things I couldn't say out loud because I didn't want to burden you. But now... it's time for you to know everything.
You remember that day when you used the forbidden magic to save me? I never got to fully explain the consequences of that choice. You gave up a part of yourself for me—your life force, your essence. But the truth is, that magic wasn't just dangerous for you; it connected us in ways neither of us could have imagined. Our souls became intertwined in a way that defied the natural order, and because of that bond, your life was being drained faster than anyone could see. Every moment we shared, every time you fought, every time you laughed—it was taking a toll on you. And you didn't even know.
I knew, Orphie. I felt it. I saw the signs. But I couldn't bear to tell you.
The forbidden magic came at a price, one neither of us was prepared to pay. I realized that if I stayed any longer, if our connection continued to exist as it did, it would destroy you. Slowly, painfully. I was draining your strength without even meaning to. I thought I could protect you by keeping this secret, but all I did was delay the inevitable.
So, I had to go. I had to sever the connection myself. That's why I disappeared. It's not because I wanted to, not because I don't care. I love you, Orphie. I always have, and I always will. But the only way for you to survive was for me to leave.
I wanted to save you the way you saved me, but in the end, I wasn't strong enough to tell you the truth while I was still there. So now, I'm telling you through this letter.
Please, don't be angry with yourself. Don't think this is your fault. If anyone's to blame, it's me for not realizing sooner what that magic would do to both of us. I wish I could stay by your side, but this is the only way to keep you alive. You have so much more to live for. You deserve a long, full life.
I'm sorry, Orphie. I'm sorry I couldn't stay.
Live. Be happy. And never, ever forget... you were always enough.
With all my love,
Aelin (Your Lior)
P.S. I'll be watching over you, from wherever I am. So don't you dare be sad for too long, okay?