The others had taken Valek's return in stride, although Janco made a comment about Valek's lack of hair. "You ever notice how couples start to look alike?" he asked. In a deadpan, Valek replied, "Yes. In fact I was just thinking how much you and Topaz resemble each other. It's uncanny.
Maria V. SnyderIn the end, only Leif believed that you were still alive. He thought you might be hiding somewhere, playing a game. As the rest of us grieved, Leif searched the jungle for you day after day.โ โWhen did he finally stop?โ I asked. โYesterday.
Maria V. SnyderI hate a mystery. I would have let the identity of the Commanderโs successor remain a secret, as I have for fifteen years, but tonightโs opportunity was too tempting. With eight drunken Generals sleeping it off, I could have danced on their beds without waking them." - Valek
Maria V. SnyderWhat have I earned from you, Valek? Loyalty? Respect? Trust?" "You have my attention. But give me what I want, and you can have everything.
Maria V. SnyderNo. I took this job in self-defense. Quain burns everything. Belen thinks jerky is all we need to survive. Flea's idea of a good meal is something that hasn't been in a garbage can first. And Kerrick poisoned us-' 'Not on purpose,' Kerrick said. 'The meat looked done.
Maria V. Snyder