i'm never going to understand the Barrani." "You needn't sound so morose, Lord Kaylin. They are unlikely to understand you either." "Yes, but I'm unlikely to try to kill them for fun.

Hope is often bitter, but it drives us, and we cling.

Not all of our heartless plans work as we intend; nor do all of our good intentions. We are where we are, and we can rarely predict where we will go, no matter how firm our beliefs.

Generally, I like to appear smart. I don't admit being stupid when there's any hope I'm not.

Lies were something you told other people to make things easier, somehow - hopefully, for them, but often more selfishly for yourself.

If hearts really could sink, Kaylin's was busily rearranging her internal organs.

Is there anyone’s life story you don’t want to know?” “Not really.” His expression was unexpectedly serious. “Because people make a story of their lives. Gains, losses, tragedy and triumph—you can tell a lot about someone simply by what they put into each category. You can learn a lot about what you put into each category by your reaction to them. They teach you about yourself without ever intending to do it—and they teach you a lot about life.