Do whatever you must, Karigan," he told her, his voice so quiet it would not carry, "to come back. You must come back. To me." ~King Zachary

It's good to leave behind all that is comfortable and known every so often. It opens one's mind to the wide world.

I swear...I'll deliver the message for the love of my country.

Every moment of life mattered. Even the perfect snowflake that alighted on his palm and melted in seconds.

Yes." His gaze grew distant. "If I'd have the chance, if my position permitted, I would have pleaded with her not to accept the mission because of the danger, and because I couldn't bear the thought of..." "Of losing her?

"You’re a stubborn, ill-trained horse.” she said. The horse snorted and walked towards the North Road of his own volition. ”Hey!” Karigan pulled back on the reins. “Whoa. Who do you think is in charge here?"

Often, just as when they were children, it was four against one when some argument came up. At least they no longer sat on him to force him to submit to their wishes.