The Tower of Blood stood in deep red stone under the white ribbon of light.
It was shorter than the previous three, but the air around it felt heavier. Even from a distance the grass near its base looked darker.
Orin stopped the group and spoke clearly.
"This one takes blood. You have to offer it willingly or the doors stay closed. The tower drinks until it decides it has enough from each person. Some of you will leave weaker than you entered. The seed at the top binds the carrier's bloodline more tightly to those who have already shared his bed. After this, staying near him will make recovery faster. That is the trade."
She glanced at me.
"Your ribs are still healing. The blood loss will slow that down. Be careful how much you give."
No one backed out.
We walked to the entrance. The doors were already open.
