“She wondered how big the world was, really, when you crossed it, instead of traced it with your finger on the map.”

“When you train your thoughts to dissolve as they arise, they will cross your mind like a bird crosses the sky--without leaving a trace.”

“It was one of those moments when you wonder whether there is some kind of big misunderstanding and really this is all just a dream or a made-up story, and not the real world like you thought it was.”

“Her smile turned to one of joy and something he could not quite define. “You really do love me.”“I do.” He couldn’t help but smile back at her, at the note of wonder in her voice as if she were the lucky one. His finger traced the small dimple in her cheek. “But I doubt you will ever be able to understand how much. My world was a very dark place before you came into it. I am at home in the darkness, and you will likely see traces of it still lingering in the years to come. Intrigues abound in Venice, and I will be vigilant about protecting you. There will likely be times when you see a side of me that is … unpleasant, although hopefully not as unpleasant as the day we encountered the mercenaries.”

“When you're too religious, you tend to point your finger to judge instead of extending your hand to help.”

“Would you leave your world for me?" he asks. "I might." she tells him. She wonders how the world ever fell apart with this much love in it.”