It made Costis wonder for the first time just how much the stoic man really wants to hide when he unsuccessfully pretends not to be in pain.

Sounis had been thinking of Ambiades. "He would have been a better man under different circumstances." Gen looked at him. "True enough," he said. "But does a good man let his circumstances determine his character?

What he brought out was a wooden gag they put in someone's mouth before doing something drastic, like cutting off a leg.

"Before you make a decision," he said, "I want you to know that I love you."

Being six feet off the ground does give one a sense of superiority.

He didn't marry you to become king. He became king because he wanted to marry you.

I am a master of foolhardy plans, I thought. I have so much practice I consider them professional risks.