“(Emily frowned, then turned about in her saddle to scan the inner bailey.)Milady? What do you seek? (Simon)A marker announcing this as the gate to Hades. (Emily)”

“Do you know what a friend is, milord? (Emily)An enemy in disguise. (Draven)”

“I didn’t think you’d allow me to attend. (Emily)I’m a beast, Emily, not a bastard. (Draven)”

“I should be mortified, I know. But Alys is a good friend to me, and though she has her faults, she has a good and generous heart.(Emily)And is that all that matters to you? (Draven)Aye. People will always make mistakes, but in the end ‘tis their heart that matters most. (Emily)”

“Draven stood below the gate disrobing. Slowly, and piece by piece, he removed his sword, his surcoat, his mail armor, and then his padded aketon until there was nothing left but the wealth of tawny skin gleaming in the sunlight. Stark naked, he walked toward the gate. Emily bit back her tears as she understood. "You asked me for proof of his feelings, Majesty. You now have it!”

“But my father’s is closest. (Emily)A wounded hawk doesn’t bed down in a fox’s den. (Draven)”

“Allow me to present myself, milady. I am Simon of Ravenswood, brother to the ogre, and your most fervent protector for this journey. (Simon)Wonderful. And pray tell who will protect her from your drooling? Should I have my squire fetch rags now, or should I wait until she starts to drown? (Draven)”