“Nice Kerrick was scarier than Mean Kerrick.”

“Here we go. Kerrick was as subtle as a thunderstorm.”

“When we reached the door, Belen stepped in the way. 'If any harm—''Comes to her, you’ll rip out my arms. Got it,' Kerrick said.'I’m serious,' Belen said.'I know. Do you really think I’d put her in danger?''Not on purpose, but things happen that are out of your control.'Kerrick gave him a tight smile. 'You mean I'm not omnipotent?''You're not even semi-potent.''Is that even a word?' Kerrick asked.'He probably means you're impotent,' I offered.”

“No. I took this job in self-defense. Quain burns everything. Belen thinks jerky is all we need to survive. Flea's idea of a good meal is something that hasn't been in a garbage can first. And Kerrick poisoned us-''Not on purpose,' Kerrick said. 'The meat looked done.”

“I remembered my little brother, Allyn, had appeared so innocent and angelic when he slept--similar to Kerrick. It must be a survival tactic. If Allyn hadn't looked so sweet, we would have killed him while he slept. He had been pure evil when he was awake--similar to Kerrick.”

“Generals trump Majors," Ursan said."True, but do princes trump generals?""I attacked him.""Ryne's not the type to hold a grudge."Ursan considered. "Isn't he a king? Both his parents died""Technically, yes. But he hasn't assumed the title.""Neither has Prince Kerrick," Ursan said. " Don't you find that odd?""Not with Kerrick. He loved his father very much. I think it's still too painful for him to assume the title. Plus he hasn't been home in years."Ursan remained quiet until we reached his tent. "Prince Kerrick's a forest mage. Which means his eyes change colour with the seasons. Right?""Yes."He stared at me for a moment. "Lucky guy." Ursan ducked into his tent.”