To while away the day contemplating evils that might have been is to poison the happiness we already have.

Treat all fairly or they will seek revenge.

From the corner of his eye, Eragon saw Orik hewing Urgal necks with mighty blows of his ax.

All great fighting is the same, Eragon, even as all great warriors are the same. Past a certain point, it does not matter whether you wield a sword, a claw, a tooth or a tail. It is true, you must be capable with your weapon, but anyone with the time, and the inclination can acquire technical proficiency. To achieve greatness, though, that requires artistry. That requires imagination and thoughtfulness, and it is those qualities that the best warriors share, even if, on the surface, they appear completely different.

The name, his true name, was weaker and more flawed than he would have liked, and he hated himself for that, but there was also much to admire within it, and the more he thought about it, the more he was able to accept the true nature of his self. He was not the best person in the world, but neither was he the worst.

The deeds of the children are a testament to the upbringing they received from their parents.

You must be willing to protect yourself and what you cherish, no matter what the cost.