Nobility is a lie. A pretence that high standing comes from anything more than money or martial prowess. Any dolt can play the noble, and as you’ll discover in time, daughter, it’s mostly dolts who do.
If you believe our cause so hopeless, why join us?””Because you offered something I had forgotten could be offered, a choice. And I choose to die free.
Divinity retains the appearance of insight, when in reality it celebrates ignorance. Its tenets are so much clay, and when the clay sets, it becomes dogma.
The promise of power wasn’t enough, he thought. So now she tempts me with knowledge.
I cannot believe the path to victory lies in staining our souls so black we become indistinguishable from those we fight.
Thirty-four, still undecided on a name, sat practicing his Realm tongue with Draker, although much of the lesson seemed to consist of the correct use of profanity. “No,” the big man shook his shaggy head. “Pig-fucker not fuck-pigger.
What do you think the world is if not just an endless parade of madness? To make war is madness. To seek power is madness.” She laughed louder, throwing her arms wide. “And madness is glorious!
War is always an adventure to those who’ve never seen it.
I’ve survived revolution, war, and over a decade on this continent,” the Burgrave reflected. “But by all the ghosts of the hundred emperors, I think fatherhood will finally do me in.
War is ever the folly of the ignorant. But I have seen much to convince me some wars must be fought, to the bitterest end if need be.
Have we freed this man or cursed him?” he wondered aloud.”Freedom is never a curse, brother,” Thirty-four insisted. “But it is often a hard road.
You will know him by the blade he carries and the Dark-born skill with which he wields it, for none who know the love of the Father may defeat the Darkblade, yet all must stand against him.
Courage?” I gave a very soft laugh. “I find courage is just another of life’s illusions. In the end, we all do what we must.
I did wonder if I’d have cause to rue my action. Now I believe it can safely be filed under Necessary Regrets.
Lust? I have no desire to incite lust in anyone.”Veliss turned to her with a quizzical expression, her smile suddenly genuine. “Then I’m afraid you’re in for a lifetime of disappointment.
You hide it well, but I can see it, Lord Verniers. You hate us. We have beaten you to obedience but it’s still there, like dry tinder waiting for a spark.
Curiosity is also my worst vice, and once stirred one not to be denied.