Discover a wealth of wisdom and insight from Maria V. Snyder through their most impactful and thought-provoking quotes and sayings. Expand your perspective with their inspiring words and share these beautiful Maria V. Snyder quote pictures with your friends and followers on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, or your personal blog - all free of charge. We've compiled the top 298 Maria V. Snyder quotes for you to explore and share with others.

The heart is a strange beast and not ruled by logic. By Maria V. Snyder Logic Heart Strange Beast Ruled

Well, Valek, any new promotions?" the Commander asked"No. But Maren shows promise. Unfortunately she doesn't want to be in my corps or even be my second.She just wants to beat me." Valek grinned, delighted by the challenge."And can she?" the Commander inquired. His eyebrows rose."With time and the proper training. She's deadly with her bow; it's just her tactics that need work.""Then what do we do with her?""Promote her to General and retire some of those old wind-bags. We could use some fresh blood in the upper ranks.""Valek, you never had a good grasp of military structure.""Then promote her to First Lieutenant today, Captain tomorrow, Major the next day, Colonel the day after, and General the day after that.""I'll take it under advisement. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Maren Commander Promotions Asked

Do you really want to know why you lost?" I asked."Do you really have an answer?" he countered."You need to get off your horse and run with your men. You don't have the stamina for a long fight. And find a lighter sword.""But it was my uncle's.""You're not your uncle.""But I'm the King, and this is the King's sword," Cahil said. His brows creased together. He seemed confused."So wear it to your coronation," I said. "If you use it in battle, you'll be wearing it to your funeral," I said. By Maria V. Snyder Lost King Cahil Asked Answer

Janco stepped between us. "Let's see if I have this right," he said to Cahil. "Yelena beats you, so you want a rematch, but you think she'll use her magic instead of her fighting skills to win. That's quite the quandary." Janco pulled at his goatee. "Since I taught her everything she knows, and I don't have any magic, thank fate, how about you fight me? Your long sword against my bow."" You taught her everything?" Ari asked.Janco waved away his comment. "Details, details. I'm thinking big picture here, Ari. By Maria V. Snyder Details Janco Cahil Stepped Ari

There are certain people I trust no matter what. Even when it seems like they've turned into monsters, you need to stay true to them. Because, in the end, they'll be the ones backing you up. By Maria V. Snyder People Trust Matter Monsters End

Rand rubbed his hands over his face. His anger had dissipated. I'm sorry, Yelena. I was backed into a corner and I couldn't get out without hurting someone. By Maria V. Snyder Rand Face Rubbed Hands Yelena

Anything else you want to tell me?" I asked Valek as we stopped a few feet short of the castle's south entrance. "Did Ari and Janco set me up for Nix's attack? Do you have another test of loyalty for me up your sleeve? Maybe the next time, I'll actually fail. A prospect that seems appealing!" I pushed away Valek's supporting arm. "When you warned me that you would test me from time to time, I thought you meant spiking my food. But it seems there is more than one way to poison a person's heart, and it doesn't even require a meal. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Time Ari Janco Nix

[Riley] slapped his hands to his face and then dropped them as if in surrender. 'I always say the wrong thing around you. Look, can we start over?'Over?"Yes. Over. Wipe the board clean.'But I would have to go back to hating you and not trusting you' I saidOh, well don't do that.' He paused and chewed his lip. 'Does that mean you like and trust me now?' "- Riley and Trella By Maria V. Snyder Slapped Surrender Riley Hands Face

You missed the point completely! You're acting ... " The word stuck in my throat.He didn't hesitate to say it. "Jealous?" When I nodded, he continued. "Now you're missing the point. It isn't jealousy. It's fear.""Fear?" Not the emotion I expected."Yes. Fear. I'm afraid you'll be hurt or killed. I'm afraid I won't be able to protect you. I'm afraid I'll lose you to another man. By Maria V. Snyder Completely Fear Afraid Missed Point

Dark shadows of grief haunted his expression. More than any one person should be asked to bear. But that was the problem with grief. No one ever asked for it. It arrived with its bags packed for an extended stay. It settled into your best guest room and demanded to be waited on all day long, and which it finally shuffled out the door, it left behind permanent scratches on your furniture. By Maria V. Snyder Dark Expression Shadows Haunted Grief

Then you understand why I don't want to get close to another again. What happens when she dies, too? I couldn't bear it.""Then you miss out on life.""What do you mean?""You'll be alone, trusting no one because of fear. I know. I have four years experience of pushing people away, missing out on life. Four years spent by myself, living in my glass cage. Four years of self-doubt, worries, fears. By Maria V. Snyder Years Understand Close Dies Life

Did she just-""Yes.""But I don't-""Yes you do. We both stink.""Well, I'm not-""Yes. You are."He huffed. "You wont let-""No. No complaining. Let's go." I grabbed a clean shirt and pants from my saddlebags."Well, she could have handled it better," he grumped."No. She couldn't."He settled into a sulky silence as we visited the bathhouse. By Maria V. Snyder Yes Stink Are Huffed Complaining

Run," he whispered. "Run.""No, Rand," I said, brushing the dirt from his face. "I'm tired of running.""Forgive me, please." He clutched my hand as his eyes beseeched me through tears of pain."You're forgiven."He sighed once, then stopped breathing. The shine in his brown eyes dulled. I pulled his hood over his head. By Maria V. Snyder Run Whispered Run Rand Forgive

Your soul fits the void in my soul perfectly. By Maria V. Snyder Perfectly Soul Fits Void

Ursan flourished the knife, threatening me. "Talk, or I'll start cutting off body parts.""Yours? Or mine?" I kept my voice steady despite my insides twisting into goo. "It's an important distinction. By Maria V. Snyder Talk Ursan Knife Threatening Flourished

We talked through Gillie's life from start to finish, including all her accomplishments and major life events. The woman fell asleep with a dreamy half smile still on her lips.I remained by her bedside. Cog would be amused by my efforts to comfort an upper. No. Not amused. Proud. I liked Ella. She was a good sort, much nicer than Trella, and I hoped she managed to survive the next thirty hours. By Maria V. Snyder Gillie Life Finish Including Events

My plans had seemed straightforward, then my road kept dipping and turning and I kept getting caught in its traps. No I felt mired in mud in the middle of nowhere. Lost. By Maria V. Snyder Straightforward Traps Plans Road Dipping

Behind the candle, Dax's face turned red and he sputtered as if suppressing a cough. A flash seared my eyes as the wick ignited."That's rude." His outraged expression was comical."You wanted it lit.""Yeah, but I didn't want to do it for you!" He glanced around the room as if seeking the patience to deal with an unruly child. "Zaltanas and their weird powers, forcing me to light the candle. Pah! To think I wanted to live vicariously through your adventures. By Maria V. Snyder Dax Cough Candle Face Turned

I shook my head at Janco. "I've got the situation under control. Go back to the Keep, I'll meet you there."Janco stared at me in astonished silence. Ari, though, trusted me. "Come on, she doesn't need our help." Ari sheathed his sword. Janco recovered. He flashed me one of his mischievous grins. "I'll bet you a copper that she'll be free in five minutes," he said to Ari.Ari grunted in amusement. "A silver on ten minutes," he countered."I'll bet you both a gold coin that she kills him," Valek saidfrom behind them. They moved aside and he entered, still dressed in his Adviser Ilom disguise. "The only way to take care of your problem. Right, love? By Maria V. Snyder Janco Shook Head Ari Bet

Bad dreams are ghosts of our fears and worries, haunting us while we sleep. I doubt Valek is in trouble. By Maria V. Snyder Bad Worries Haunting Sleep Dreams

You had me tied in knots. You saved Belen's life, and I wanted to kill and thank you all at the same time. And during those nights when we didn't know if you'd live or die, I went from being angry, to worried to frustrated to scared all within a single heartbeat. If you had die, I would have killed you. By Maria V. Snyder Knots Tied Die Belen Life

Before Kiki and I headed toward the Keep, I thanked my friends."For what? We didn't do anything," Janco grumbled."For caring enough to follow my guards. And the next time, I might need the help.""There better not be a next time," Ari said, giving me a stern look."How touching," Janco said, pretending to wipe his eyes."Get going, Yelena. I don't want you to see me cry." He faked a sniffle."I'm sure your ego can handle it," I said. "Or will you need to beat up some trainees to feel like a man again?""Very funny," he said. By Maria V. Snyder Kiki Janco Friends Time Headed

You asked how I can be so calm. I don't have time not to be. I would like to grieve and worry and carry on, but that doesn't achieve results. By Maria V. Snyder Calm Asked Results Time Grieve

I'd better get going or Valek will be wondering where I am.""Yes, by all means go. I noticed you and Valek have become close. Tell him, for me, not to kill anybody, will you?" Sarcasm rendered Rand's voice sharp.I lost control and slammed the oven door shut. It echoed in the quiet kitchen. "At least Valek has the decency to inform me when he's poisoning me, By Maria V. Snyder Valek Wondering Rand Close Noticed

If you don't come back to the Keep, then I'll be right. And every time you see me, I'll be insufferably smug.""And how's that different from now?" He laughed and I could see the young carefree boy he had been in his eyes. "You've only had a small glimpse of how insufferable and annoying I can be. As the older brother, it's my birthright. By Maria V. Snyder Back Smug Time Insufferably Eyes

I left Kiki in the yard, and fetched my pick and brushes.She lifted her leg and I dislodged the stone then pulled the shedding blade through her copper hair. After a while, I removed my cloak. When I finished, clumps of horse hair clung to my sweaty clothes.You're beautiful and I need a bath, I said to her. Pasture or stall?Stall. Nap time.And what about your snooze before I groomed you?Pre nap. By Maria V. Snyder Kiki Yard Stall Left Fetched

She put her hands on her hips and surveyed the area with a cocky smile on her face. The smirk spread when the traitor met my gaze. "No hello for your old friend?" she asked me. "Don't be rude Baby Face.""Go to hell, Wynn. By Maria V. Snyder Face Put Hands Hips Surveyed

A little present from my run-in with a sword. Or should I say from when the sword had a run-in with me?" His eyes lit up."Want to see the scar? It's cool." He started pulling his shirt out of his pants."Janco," Ari warned. "We're not supposed to be fraternizing with the Sitians.""But she's not Sitian. Right, Yelena? You haven't gone south on us, have you?" Janco's voice held mock horror."Because if you have I can't give you your present."I took my switchblade out, showing the inscription to Janco. "What about 'Sieges weathered, fight together, friends forever'? Does that change if I become an official southerner?"Janco rubbed the hair on his chin, considering. "No," Ari said. "You could change into a goat and it would still apply. By Maria V. Snyder Janco Runin Sword Ari Present

At first, it feels as if she has vanished forever, and all traces are destroyed. But later, when the pain of loss doesn't overwhelm all your other feelings, every time you think of her, or hear her voice in your head, or remember a happy time together, you realize she's still a part of you and will never be totally gone. By Maria V. Snyder Forever Destroyed Feels Vanished Traces

He made a weak attempt to look innocent, but I knew better. 'Should I guess how many concealed weapons you have or should I strip search you?''A strip search is the only way to be absolutely certain.' Valek's deep blue eyes danced with delight. By Maria V. Snyder Innocent Made Weak Attempt Knew

I balled my hands into tight fists to keep them from wrapping around Mr. I-Know-Everything's superior neck. By Maria V. Snyder Superior Neck Balled Hands Tight

There's an arrest warrant out for her. Did you even consider taking her to the Commander?""No.""Why not?" Valek didn't try to hide his disbelief. "Killing isn't the only solution to a problem. Or has that been yourformula?"" My formula! Excuse me, Mr. Assassin, while I laugh as I remember my history lessons on how to deal with a tyrannical monarch by killing him and his family."Valek flashed me a dangerous look. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Arrest Warrant Commander Killing

You have slipped under my skin, invaded my blood, and seized my heart. You have poisoned me. By Maria V. Snyder Skin Invaded Blood Heart Slipped

Why?" I figured they would do what they had done before and lay low."Because of you.""Me? You've got to be joking." "You're right. I am. It's really because of Sheepy. How he risked his life for them, and how he showed them that scrubs are real human beings who care and want the same things in life. Opened their eyes to the fact the Travas are our mutual enemy." "Sheepy's a great guy ... sheep. By Maria V. Snyder Sheepy Life Low You Travas

Sieges weathered, fight together, friends forever. By Maria V. Snyder Sieges Weathered Fight Friends Forever

I didn't expect a knife, though. Is it the one missing from the kitchen?""Did Rand report it?" I felt betrayed. Why hadn't he just asked for it back?"No. It just makes sense to keep track of large kitchen knives, so when one goes missing you're not surprised when someone attacks you with it. By Maria V. Snyder Knife Expect Rand Missing Kitchen

There might be plenty of rainy days, but those perfect ones will make all the memories of rain disappear. By Maria V. Snyder Days Disappear Plenty Rainy Perfect

So who gave him his name?" I asked."Kerrick," Belen answered.Not who I'd expect. "Why 'Flea'?"A full-out grin spread across Flea's face. "Cause I'm fast and hard to catch.""Because he's a pest and hard to squash," Belen said."Because he jumps about three feet in the air when you scare him," Loren added."Because he's annoying and makes us itch with impatience," Quain said."Thanks, guys. I love you too." Flea made exaggerated kissing noises and patted his ass. By Maria V. Snyder Belen Flea Kerrick Gave Hard

There is a reason for everything. You might not be able to figure it out, and time might have made us all forget it, but the reason is there all the same. By Maria V. Snyder Reason Figure Time Made Forget

No one is going to mess with my son or daughter."She laughed. "You can't assassinate bullies or boys who kiss your daughter.""Pity. By Maria V. Snyder Pity Daughter Laughed Mess Son

I hate a mystery. I would have let the identity of the Commander's successor remain a secret, as I have for fifteen years, but tonight's opportunity was too tempting. With eight drunken Generals sleeping it off, I could have danced on their beds without waking them.- Valek By Maria V. Snyder Mystery Hate Valek Commander Generals

What we do with our free time is none of your business. Now, why don't you shuffle off to Parffet. I saw him heading toward the latrines. He'll need you to wipe his ass soon. It's the one skill you're most suited for. - Ari, pg. 188. By Maria V. Snyder Business Free Time Parffet Ari

It was all a part of being trustworthy - of being a piece of sea glass. High tides, low tides, storms, sand and mistakes all contributed to the polishing process. Though difficult to endure at the time, the demanding elements helped smooth the surface, transforming one into a better person, not worse. A person who learned from the harsh environment, who knew the storm would end, and who felt confident she would still be in one piece. By Maria V. Snyder Trustworthy Glass Tides Part Sea

The others had taken Valek's return in stride, although Janco made a comment about Valek's lack of hair. 'You ever notice how couples start to look alike?' he asked. In a deadpan, Valek replied, 'Yes. In fact I was just thinking how much you and Topaz resemble each other. It's uncanny. By Maria V. Snyder Janco Valek Stride Hair Return

I found a few springs of rosemary and returned. Ignoring the collective sigh when I appeared, I stripped off the leaves and handed them to Loren.He sniffed them in suspicion. "What's this?"I guess it would take more than my word for them to trust me, "Rosemary." No glimmer of recognition. "It's to make your stew taste better. Don't you know the basic herbs and spices?""No. I took this job in self-defence. Quain burns everything. Belen thinks jerky is all we need to survive. Flea's idea of good meal is something that hasn't been in garbage can first. And Kerrick poisoned us""Not on purpose." Kerrick said. "The meat looked done. By Maria V. Snyder Returned Rosemary Found Springs Kerrick

I am a Stormdancer! Mere metal is nothing compared with the power of a storm." Kade made his voice boom and spread his arms wide. His eyes sparked with humor. "I. Am. Invincible.""Until a happy wind blows," I said."Curse those sunny days.""The bane of your existence.""The scourge of society.""The downfall of decency.""And boring, too. Nothing like a good gale to put a spring in your step." Kade grinned. By Maria V. Snyder Stormdancer Kade Mere Storm Curse

Skewer is just too vague. I think if you say, 'Stand back or I'll stab him in the stomach,' then I have an idea about how serious you are. After all, Leif's stomach is his favorite body part so that's a decent threat. By Maria V. Snyder Skewer Vague Stand Stomach Leif

I had hoped to hear everyone discussing how much they missed my altruistic qualities, my legendary skills as a fighter and as a lover." He leered. "Instead, you're making plans for tomorrow. Interesting how life goes on in spite of itself. By Maria V. Snyder Qualities Lover Hoped Hear Discussing

Without warning, he sprawled forward, doing a face-plant in the snow. At first, we laughed and teased. the normally surefooted Kerrick brushed snow off his cape, grumbling good-naturedly. By Maria V. Snyder Warning Forward Sprawled Faceplant Snow

Nice Kerrick was scarier than Mean Kerrick. By Maria V. Snyder Kerrick Nice Scarier

When we reached the beach, Leif fell to his knees with a dramatic cry. "Solid ground! I'll never take you for granted again.""Are you going to kiss the sand?" I asked."Don't be ridiculous.""Now I'M the one being silly?""Yes. By Maria V. Snyder Leif Beach Cry Reached Fell

The uniform enhanced his athletic body, and my thoughts drifted to how magnificent he would look with his uniform puddled around his feet. By Maria V. Snyder Uniform Body Feet Enhanced Athletic

Devlen: Stop second-guessing yourself. Do what you need to do. Don't apologize. When the time comes, you'll know what is important and what isn't. Opal: I thought you said there weren't any easy answer.Devlen: I didn't say it would be easy. Sometimes being true to yourself is the hardest thing to do. By Maria V. Snyder Stop Devlen Secondguessing Easy Opal

You said I was afraid to come back to the Keep. Well - " I spread my arms wide, flinging drops of water onto Leif's green tunic " - here I am.""You are here. I'll grant you that. But are you unafraid?""I already have a mother and a Story Weaver. Your job is to be the annoying older brother. Stick to what you know.""Ohhh. I've hit a nerve. By Maria V. Snyder Afraid Back Leif Ohhh Weaver

Lief. That's not nice, considering all your sister has done for you," admonished Perl."Oh right. How could I forget that she made me bait for a snake, left me on house arrest in Ixia, and smuggled me into the Keep in a coffin. By Maria V. Snyder Lief Perl Ixia Nice Admonished

Hasn't stopped us before. And besides, if they wanted to kill us, we'd be dead by now and would be having an entirely different conversation. I wonder if I'd still be mad at you, or if we would talk in words or pictures. Maybe in smells. That would be cool. -Janco By Maria V. Snyder Stopped Janco Conversation Wanted Kill

Your mother sounds like a formidable woman," Valek said into the silence."You have no idea," Leif replied with a sigh."Well, if she's anything like Yelena, my deepest sympathies," Valek teased."Hey!"Leif laughed and the tense moment dissipated.Valek handed Leif his machete. "Do you know how to use it?""Of course. I chopped Yelena's bow into firewood," Leif joked. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Hey Leif Yelena Woman

He pulled my arm out to expose my bracelet. "When I carved this, my thoughts were on you, love. Your life is like this snake's coils. No matter how many turns it makes, you'll end up back where you belong. With me." His sapphire eyes held a promise. - Valek By Maria V. Snyder Bracelet Pulled Arm Expose Love

You're right. And so was my snake."Snake?"He pulled my arm out to expose my bracelet. "When I carved this my thoughts were on you, love. Your life is like this snake's coils. No matter how many turns it makes, you'll end up back where you belong. With me. By Maria V. Snyder Snake Love Snake Bracelet Pulled

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. By Maria V. Snyder Belen Kerrick Door Reached Stepped

I'm sure you're just dying to tell me all the campus gossip about me. Right?""I do have a life. Maybe I've been too busy to listen to rumors," he huffed, pretending to have hurt feelings.I looked at him.He sighed. "Okay, you win. I'm bored out of my skull. Second Magician is busy playing detective, and Gelsi is neck-deep in some project and I never see her anymore." Dax paused dramatically. "My life is so boring that I have to live vicariously through your adventures.""And since the rumors are so accurate - ""Your adventures have turned into legends." He swept his arms wide, laughing. "So where are you off to now? Going to slay a dragon? Can Itag along as your lowly squire? I'll polish your staff of power every night with my shirt. I promise.""I'm glad my problems are keeping you entertained, By Maria V. Snyder Dying Campus Gossip Busy Life

I understood that Valek's loyalty to the Commander was without question. His blue eyes held a fierce determination and I knew in my soul that Valek would take his own life after he had taken mine. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Commander Question Understood Loyalty

Kade: Life is rarely fair.Opal: I know that now. Parents teach their children to share, to play fair, to be honest. But ... surprise! Life isn't fair. And it takes a while to transition from the childhood lies to the adult reality. I probably clung to the part of me that still expected fairness longer than most. By Maria V. Snyder Life Kade Fairopal Rarely Fair

I had to admit there was one good thing about staying in the south. Instead of being the only person with tan skin, I finally looked as if I belonged. Living in the north with the pale-skinned Ixians for so long, though, had not prepared me for such a variety of brown skin tones. Much to my embarrassment, I had found myself gawking at the deeper mahogany skin colors when we first entered Sitia. By Maria V. Snyder South Skin Admit Good Thing

Let's go. We're supposed to rendezvous with the Captain at the lake. Oh, and try to keep the noise down. You sound like a panicked moose crashing through the woods," the smarter man chided."Oh yeah. Like you could hear me over your specially trained 'woodland-animal footsteps,'" Rough Voice countered. "It was like listening to two deer humping each other. By Maria V. Snyder Captain Lake Rough Voice Supposed

Yelena." I halted in the doorway, looking back over my shoulder."You once said I wasn't ready to believe your reason for killing Reyad. I'll believe you now.""But I'm not ready to tell you," I said and left the room. By Maria V. Snyder Yelena Ready Reyad Doorway Shoulder

Living is a risk,' I snapped at him. 'Every decision, every interaction, every step, every time you get out of bed in the morning, you take a risk. To survive is to know you're taking that risk and to not get out of bed clutching illusions of safety. By Maria V. Snyder Risk Living Snapped Bed Decision

Oh, you made an impression. Like a stone caught in my boot. By Maria V. Snyder Impression Made Boot Stone Caught

I want you to have this." He extended his hand. On his palm sat the beautiful butterfly he had carved. Silver spots on the wings glinted in the sunlight, and a silver chain hung from a small hole drilled into its body.Valek looped the necklace around my neck. "When I carved this statue, I was thinking about you. Delicate in appearance, but with a strength unnoticed at first glance." His eyes met mine. By Maria V. Snyder Carved Silver Hand Extended Sunlight

You have my heart, my soul, my life. I'm an empty shell without you. By Maria V. Snyder Heart Soul Life Empty Shell

In fact, he's never taken an interest in a woman before. I was beginning to to suspect he might prefer one of his male sneaks, but now ... " She paused dramatically. "Now, we have the lovely, intelligent Yelena to get Valek's cold heart pumping.""You really should get out of your sewing room more. You need fresh air and a dose of reality," I said knowing better than to believe a word Dilana said, but unable to control the silly little grin on my face. Her sweet, melodious laughter followed me into the hallway."You know I'm right, " she called. By Maria V. Snyder Fact Interest Woman Sneaks Yelena

Care to explain?" Ari asked."Didn't you see my signals?""Yeah. But they didn't make sense. Five into one and it's an intrusion.""It's an illusion! Five of them are an illusion.""That's not the signal for illusion. This is." Ari demonstrated the proper signal."That's what I did.""No, you didn't. You did a weird twisty thing with your pinky.""I had a scimitar at my throat. I'd like to see you try signaling under those conditions."-Janco and Ari bickering By Maria V. Snyder Yeah Care Explain Ari Illusion

Out of nowhere, Valek appeared before me, yelling in my ear, shaking my shoulders. Stupidly, belatedly, I realized he was the drunk. Who else but Valek could win a fight against four large men when armed only with a beer mug? By Maria V. Snyder Yelling Ear Shaking Shoulders Valek

Many have tried to kill us. All have failed.-Valek By Maria V. Snyder Valek Kill Failed

I remembered my little brother, Allyn, had appeared so innocent and angelic when he sleptsimilar 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 awakesimilar to Kerrick. By Maria V. Snyder Kerrick Allyn Brother Remembered Appeared

Blue Eyes pulled his sword back and tried another lunge. I pushed the weapon toward the ground, but again he flicked his wrist. A line of fire blazed on my right arm. Wonderful. Matching cuts.He paused with his sword held in midair. My blood stained the tip.I glanced past him. Didn't anyone hear the fight? Should I scream?"Submit? You will have so many cuts on your arms and legs, you will faint from lack of blood.""No. By Maria V. Snyder Eyes Blue Lunge Pulled Back

It can't be good news," Leif said. "I'd doubt you would brave the weather just to say hello.""You opened the door before I could knock," I said. "You must know something's up."Leif wiped the rain from his face. "I smelled you coming.""Smelled?""You reek of Lavender. Do you bathe in Mother's perfume or just wash your cloak with it?" he teased."How mundane. I was thinking of something a little more magical. By Maria V. Snyder Leif Good Smelled Lavender Hello

After almost two hours of creeping around the forest, one of the jacks discovered Belen. He had fallen asleep, and the young man had literally tripped over him. So much for his reputation. By Maria V. Snyder Belen Forest Hours Creeping Jacks

I'd wish you luck, but I don't think it would help.''Why not?''My lady, you make your own luck. By Maria V. Snyder Luck Lady Help Make

Whiskey Wendi," Kerrick said."Oh, yes," Loren said. A slow smile spread on his lips. "That was Grzebien? Wow that was ... a wild time." "That was also over a year ago before Estrid and when the Booze Baron ruled the town. Do you really think the people would remember us?" Quain asked."Whiskey Wendi," Loren repeated, looking at Quain with a gleam in his eyes."Oh, yeah." Quain grinned. "Yeah, they'd remember. By Maria V. Snyder Kerrick Wendi Yeah Loren Whiskey

I found Esau's field guide at the bottom of my pack. Taking a candle into the bedroom, I read his book until my eyes grew heavy. From his vast notes, it seemed that almost every plant and tree in the jungle had a reason for existing. I caught myself wishing there was a page in his guide that had my picture on it with the reason for my existence written underneath in Esau's neat hand. By Maria V. Snyder Pack Esau Found Field Bottom

I mulled over the implications and decided not to waste my time worrying about what everyone else thought, or to bother attempting to change their perceptions. My time at the Keep was just a stopover. Let them wonder. By Maria V. Snyder Thought Perceptions Time Mulled Implications

Yippee. I've been promoted from fire lighter to delivery boy. I'll write a letter home to Mother. She'll be so pleased. Leif By Maria V. Snyder Yippee Mother Leif Boy Promoted

Riley - "Don't worry, there are many safeguards in place. Unless you want me to have Logan explain - "Trella - "No! I trust you."He clutched his hands to his chest. "She ... Gasp ... Trusts me! Call for medical aid stat!"I swung at him, but he grabbed my wrist and pulled me to my feet.Snaking his arms around my waist, he said, "We need to celebrate this momentous occasion.""What are we celebrating?" Jacob Ashon, Riley's father, asked from the doorway. By Maria V. Snyder Worry Place Trella Riley Safeguards

Ghost?" I asked.Moon Man pointed to Valek. "Kiki's name for him. It makes sense," he said, seeing the look of confusion on my face. "To magical beings, we see the world through our magic. We see him with our eyes, but cannot see him with our magic. So he is like a ghost to us."Valek listened to Moon Man. Although expressionless, I could tell by the rigid set to Valek's shoulders that he was prepared to strike."Another relative?" Valek asked.A broad smile stretched Moon Man's lips. "Yes. I am her mother's uncle's wife's third cousin. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Man Moon Magic Kiki

Ari said you screamed and raved a lot while he took care of you. In fact, he said that if Reyad was alive today, he'd gut the bastard without a moment's hesitation. I just thought you might want to know." Janco gave me a brotherly kiss on the forehead and left. By Maria V. Snyder Ari Screamed Raved Lot Care

You can't let the past ruin your future. By Maria V. Snyder Future Past Ruin

There's always another storm. It's the way the world works. Snowstorms, rainstorms, windstorms, sandstorms, and firestorms. Some are fierce and others are small. You have to deal with each one separately, but you need to keep an eye on whats brewing for tomorrow. By Maria V. Snyder Storm Snowstorms Rainstorms Windstorms Sandstorms

How touching," Janco said, pretending to wipe his eyes. "Get going, Yelena. I don't want you to see me cry." He faked a sniffle."I'm sure your ego can handle it," I said. "Or will you need to beat up some trainees to feel like a man again? By Maria V. Snyder Janco Touching Pretending Eyes Yelena

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. By Maria V. Snyder True Ursan Majors Ryne Generals

Ari's coming with backup. Should I pretend we barely survived without his help or gloat that we didn't need him at all?" "Tough decision," I said. "You can't go wrong with either one," Kade said. "You guys are no fun. I have to go with the gloating. But no mention of that magic stuff. It ruins the effect." Janco rushed off. By Maria V. Snyder Ari Backup Coming Tough Kade

I always remember the faces and names of my enemies. I don't want to forget to kill anyone. By Maria V. Snyder Enemies Remember Faces Forget Kill

My cape caught fire. I dived to the sand and rolled on the ground to snuff the flames. So much for my grand entrance. By Maria V. Snyder Fire Cape Caught Flames Entrance

My cheek stung and throbbed. I remained on the floor of the cave. Belen stood between me and Kerrick. " ... temper in check. She's a sweet girl," Belen said. "She's a healer, Belen. And no longer a girl. Healing Ryne is all I care about. All you should care about, as well. You know-" "Yes, I know what's at stake." Belen spat the words. "But if you raise your hand to her again, I'll rip your arm from its socket. By Maria V. Snyder Belen Throbbed Cheek Stung Kerrick

With time and the proper training. She's deadly with her bow; it's just her tactics that need work.""Then what do we do with her?""Promote her to General and retire some of those old wind-bags. We could use some fresh blood in the upper ranks.""Valek, you never had a good grasp of military structure.""Then promote her to First Lieutenant today, Captain tomorrow, Major the next day, Colonel the day after, and General the day after that. By Maria V. Snyder General Training Day Promote Time

I know I hated magic for a reason," Janco said. "Congratulations. This is the first time you've had a VALID reason to hate something," Ari countered. "Remember your campaign against sand?""Sand! Horrid little stuff. Gets everywhere. I had a perfectly good argue""Janco." Ari's voice rumbled deep in his throat.In a heartbeat, Janco switched gears. "Well, this blood magic sounds worse than sand. By Maria V. Snyder Janco Sand Congratulations Ari Hated

How did you-"Fool your guards? They're not very good, the forgot to check the ceiling for spiders."Valek grinned. His angular face softened. By Maria V. Snyder Fool Guards Valek Good Spiders

The big man shifted in his seat, appearing uncomfortable. "Do you really believe we would eliminate someone you're in love with?"I sputtered. "I'm not - "Ari held up a hand. "He's helping you, then. That's important to us."Staring at him in shock, I finally asked, "Love trumps logic?""Every time," Valek said. By Maria V. Snyder Seat Appearing Uncomfortable Big Man

It's a good thing you're not my Story Weaver. You're easily distracted by the pattern of the cloth and can't see the quality of the threads." "Well By Maria V. Snyder Weaver Story Good Thing Threads

You're easily distracted by the pattern of the cloth and can't see the quality of the threads. By Maria V. Snyder Threads Easily Distracted Pattern Cloth

Valek leaned back in his chair and said to me, "I don't think I would have made it past the audition,Yelena. I probably would have set my hair on fire by this point.""What's a singed head for the sake of art?" I teased. He laughed. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Auditionyelena Leaned Back Chair

Valek was liquid in motion. As i watched him, one word came to mind: beautiful. By Maria V. Snyder Beautiful Valek Motion Liquid Mind

It's your fault. I was defending you!" I blurted.He paused. "In protecting my honor, you exposed months of work. I should be flattered? By Maria V. Snyder Fault Paused Defending Honor Work

It's a dirty way to fight, but I'm late for lunch.- Valek to Yelena By Maria V. Snyder Valek Yelena Fight Lunch Dirty

Valek's thoughts returned to Yelena. An icy finger of loneliness touched the emptiness inside him. She was in Sitia, where she needed to be to learn about her magical powers, but she had taken his heart with her. By Maria V. Snyder Yelena Valek Thoughts Returned Sitia

Besides, thinking kind thoughts about Valek could be extremely dangerous. I could admire his skills, and be relieved when he was on my side in a fight. But for a rat to like the cat? That scenario ended only one way. With one dead rat. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Thinking Dangerous Kind Thoughts

Why did Mother ask you to help me rescue Gelsi?" I asked Leif."She thought I could assist you in some way. Instead, I had tried to-""Kill me? You can join the 'I Want to Kill Yelena Guild.' I hear they have sixmembers in good standing.Valek is president since he had wanted to kill me twice."Yelena to Leif By Maria V. Snyder Gelsi Mother Kill Yelena Rescue

In keeping with his cryptic nature, all your Story Weaver said was 'The horses know where to go.' It's certainly not a military strategy I would use, but I've learned that the south uses its own strategy. And, strangely enough, it works. By Maria V. Snyder Story Weaver Nature Keeping Cryptic

I signaled when Owen's wife was linked to him, who was linked to Yelena. Valek paused, marveling at the intricacies of magical communication. Ixia really needed to find a way to keep up. By Maria V. Snyder Linked Yelena Owen Signaled Wife

Yelena, you've driven me crazy. You've caused me considerable trouble and I've contemplated ending your life twice since I've known you." Valek's warm breath in my ear sent a shiver down my spine."But you've slipped under my skin, invaded my blood and seized my heart.""That sounds more like a poison than a person," was all I could say. His confession had both shocked and thrilled me."Exactly," Valek replied. "You have poisoned me. By Maria V. Snyder Yelena Crazy Valek Driven Caused

Our souls bonded. His pleasure was my ecstasy. My blood pumped in his heart. By Maria V. Snyder Bonded Souls Ecstasy Heart Pleasure

What have I earned from you, Valek? Loyalty? Respect? Trust?""You have my attention. But give me what I want, and you can have everything. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Earned Loyalty Respect Trust

Valek: You know a death sentence hasn't kept us apart before.Yelena: Is that an order Valek?Valek: No, it's a promise! By Maria V. Snyder Valek Beforeyelena Promise Death Sentence

Valek coalesced from the shadows and wrapped me in his long lean arms. I soaked in his musky smell, listening to his heart beat. Strong and steady. No indication that he had been sneaking around. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Arms Coalesced Shadows Wrapped

And what did you give him in return?"..."My heart. By Maria V. Snyder Return Heart Give

He pulled back and I recognized the eagerness in his blue eyes. "Interesting problem, though. Could be a bit tricky.""Free Leif and then you can play," I said.He grinned."Promise?""If I don't get to them first.""That's my girl. By Maria V. Snyder Eyes Pulled Back Recognized Eagerness

Anyway, the odds were against you. Most lost big, while only a few - " Rand paused dramatically " - won big.""Since you're here, I suppose you won big."He smiled. "Yelena, I'm always going to bet on you. You're like one of the Commander's terriers. A tiny, yappy dog you wouldn't look at twice, but once it grabs your pant leg, it won't let go.""Poison the dog's meat and it won't bother you anymore. By Maria V. Snyder Big Won Odds Rand Yelena

As her newest apprentice, it had been my job to go to the market every morning. I had gotten all the jobs no one else wanted, but I had treated each task as if it had been essential to do well a trick I had learned from my father. By Maria V. Snyder Apprentice Morning Newest Market Job

Good food, fresh water, an occasional sweet and someone to care for. That's what everyone should have. By Maria V. Snyder Good Food Fresh Water Occasional

I needed to sit down. I'd heard other people talk about having to sit down when shocked by an event or revelation and I had dismissed the notion as pure exaggeration. Little did I realize the actual physical weakness. It felt as if my bones had dissolved and my muscles could no longer support my weight. By Maria V. Snyder Sit Needed Exaggeration Heard People

You look stunning, I blurted. Mortified, I blushed as a rush of heat spread through my body. I must have swallowed more brandy than I'd realized. By Maria V. Snyder Stunning Blurted Mortified Body Blushed

Yelena?""Hmm?""I'd like you to stay with me while we figure out how to unblock your magic. We're stronger together.""All right."He laughed. "I thought I'd have more of a fight.""I'm too tired to argue.""Then I should take advantage of the situation."I cracked one eye open. "And?""I'd like you to stay with me forever. By Maria V. Snyder Hmm Yelena Magic Stay Figure

Love trumps logic. And when it comes to you, love, I can be extremely irrational. By Maria V. Snyder Love Logic Trumps Irrational Extremely

Pushing magic toward the candle, I willed it to light. Nothing happened.Irys made a strangled sound and the candle burned. "Are you directing your magic to the candle?""Yes. Why?""You just ordered me to light the candle for you," Irys said in exasperation. "And I did it. By Maria V. Snyder Candle Pushing Willed Light Magic

You look like hell,' he said to me in a low voice.'Gee, Dax, don't coat it with honey. Tell me what you really think,' I said. By Maria V. Snyder Gee Dax Hell Voice Honey

What the hel - ""Finally! I can talk!" Janco said.Ari turned. Janco held the Sandseed's scimitar in his hand. The man lay on the ground, unconscious."Care to explain?" Ari asked."Didn't you see my signals?""Yeah. But they didn't make sense. Five into one and it's an intrusion.""It's an illusion! Five of them are an illusion.""That's not the signal for illusion. This is." Ari demonstrated the proper signal."That's what I did.""No, you didn't. You did a weird twisty thing with your pinky.""I had a scimitar at my throat. I'd like to see you try signaling under those conditions."Ari opened his mouth to retort, but thought better of it. They could argue for weeks and not resolve a thing. He changed tactics. "You did very well. You knocked him unconscious and stopped his magic."As expected, Janco preened. By Maria V. Snyder Finally Janco Ari Hel Illusion

Pretty stupid," I called after his retreating form. "To give up before all possible solutions have been tried. By Maria V. Snyder Pretty Stupid Form Called Retreating

In the war room, love? What if someone comes in?"I stood and removed his shirt. "Then they'll have a good story to tell.""Good?" He adopted the pretense of being offended."Prove me wrong. By Maria V. Snyder Love Room War Good Prove

Till death. I do swear, love." Valek whispered in my ear."Beyond death. My vow to you," I said. He drew back to meet my gaze. "So we shall be. Forever united.""We shall be," I agreed. By Maria V. Snyder Till Death Love Swear Valek

I stared at Irys. My Story Weaver had to be laughing his blue ass off right now. My future appeared to be a long twisted road fraught with knots, tangles and traps. Just the way I liked it. By Maria V. Snyder Irys Stared Story Weaver Knots

I took three steps and was wrapped in his arms, where I belonged. No confusion here. No worries here. No troubles here. By Maria V. Snyder Arms Belonged Steps Wrapped Confusion

Leif: Getting killed would have been easier. No guilt. No worries. No fear. Caring for someone is terrible and wonderful. I don't know if I have the strength to do it for another. How do you deal with it?Yelena: I focus on the wonderful parts and suffer through the terrible parts, knowing it will end eventually. By Maria V. Snyder Leif Easier Killed Yelena Terrible

I wanted to dissolve into the floor, mixing myself with the hard stone. A stone had a single purpose: to be. No complicated promises, no worries and no feelings. By Maria V. Snyder Floor Mixing Stone Wanted Dissolve

Resting, recuperating, moping, it's all the same. By Maria V. Snyder Resting Recuperating Moping

With a touch of sarcasm. Glass is an amazing material. Versatile, By Maria V. Snyder Sarcasm Versatile Touch Glass Material

I didn't know whether to feel smart for figuring out Kiki's advice, or feel like a simpleton for having a horse tell me the right thing to do By Maria V. Snyder Kiki Advice Feel Smart Figuring

There will always be sharks in the water. Nothing you can do about it except be careful where you swim." "Your By Maria V. Snyder Water Sharks Swim Careful

Did you live here?" Leif asked. I nodded. "For two years"."Where did you stay?" "I had a room in Valek's suite." Leif shot me an incredulous look. "Boy, you worked fast. By Maria V. Snyder Live Leif Boy Asked Valek

I'm your mother. I see all. Hear all. Know all. By Maria V. Snyder Mother Hear

Followed a step behind. My thoughts churned as my emotions seesawed By Maria V. Snyder Step Seesawed Thoughts Churned Emotions

You could put the sass into assassin By Maria V. Snyder Assassin Put Sass

He was the test I hadn't studied for, the quiz I was bound to fail. Out of my depth. By Maria V. Snyder Fail Test Studied Quiz Bound

Valek smiled. "Good. First, send Kade a reply, askinghim not to come." He pointed at the unopened letter on the table. I had forgotten about it. Sealed with wax, the message appearedto be secured. Valek shrugged. "I was bored. By Maria V. Snyder Good Smiled Valek Kade Send

Valek had learned the best way to distribute information was to classify it as secret. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Secret Learned Distribute Information

Words are easy. It's convincing the heart that's hard. By Maria V. Snyder Words Easy Hard Convincing Heart

I did what any good rat would do. I bit down on the guard's hand until I tasted blood. By Maria V. Snyder Good Rat Blood Bit Guard

Fear can be a big motivator. By Maria V. Snyder Fear Motivator Big

Reviewing our fight, I asked Janco, Why do you rhyme when you fight? By Maria V. Snyder Janco Fight Reviewing Asked Rhyme

only one way to find out By Maria V. Snyder Find

Don't worry. I'm only your escort tonight. I would offer to protect you from the drunken attentions of the other men, but I know all to well that you're quite capagble of holding your own. You're probably armed. Right?Always. By Maria V. Snyder Worry Tonight Men Escort Armed

Why is she convinced Ambrose is out to get her" Leif asked"Ambrose?" Yelena raised a slender eyebrow. She carried a tray of tea and fruit. "You're on a first name basis with the Commander now?" "I usually call him Amby, but not in mixed company. By Maria V. Snyder Ambrose Leif Asked Convinced Amby

The Commander assigned jobs based on skills and intelligence, not on gender. By Maria V. Snyder Commander Intelligence Gender Assigned Jobs

Sorry. An overdeveloped nurturing instinct comes with being a healer. By Maria V. Snyder Healer Overdeveloped Nurturing Instinct

Flea stared at us, I can't decide what's worse. Losing family members or not having a family member to lose. By Maria V. Snyder Flea Worse Stared Decide Family

Mr. Kerrick wants your hair one color so you don't stand out so much.Mr. Kerrick could kiss my ass. By Maria V. Snyder Kerrick Ass Hair Color Stand

And it's always better to check than be sorry," Quain added. "'It worked' could be code for the dead are invading.""Wow, that's ... really random, Quain. Aside from you , who would ever put those two things together? By Maria V. Snyder Quain Wow Added Check Worked

Back so soon?" he asked. "Too bad. I was just about to organize a search for your dead body. What happened when you knocked on the southerner magician's door to sacrifice yourself? Did they kick you out, thinking you too half-witted to waste their time on? By Maria V. Snyder Back Asked Bad Body Thinking

Mixing myself with the hard stone. A stone had a single purpose: to By Maria V. Snyder Mixing Stone Hard Purpose Single

Pain jabbed Janco where the lower half of his right ear used to be. He rubbed the scar. "Now, I'm not a genius - ""Got that right," Ari mumbled. By Maria V. Snyder Janco Pain Jabbed Lower Half

Here we go. Kerrick was as subtle as a thunderstorm. By Maria V. Snyder Kerrick Thunderstorm Subtle

Don't judge what you don't know. By Maria V. Snyder Judge

[Janco] paused. His eyes held a distant gleam as if seeing into his past. 'My first practice was a shock. I was a cocky smart aleck'[Opal] 'Was?'[J] 'Be quiet. I'm telling a story here. By Maria V. Snyder Janco Paused Opal Past Eyes

He huffed in amusement. She had the unique ability to attract danger even when in benign situations. Perhaps he should amend his plan and just watch her. By Maria V. Snyder Amusement Huffed Situations Unique Ability

Ah, Kerry. You've found your heart. Who is she?" ... "A healer, but she's ... gone. By Maria V. Snyder Kerry Heart Found Healer

Maximum damage. It was the beginning of the end. Either we would fail or not. At least we could say we tried. By Maria V. Snyder Maximum Damage End Beginning Fail

Your soul is drenched black with the blood of your victims, my dear, and that is why you can't see it. When you die, that heavy blood filled essence will sink to the bottom of the earth where you will burn in eternity for your crimes. By Maria V. Snyder Victims Dear Blood Soul Drenched

My sanity threatened to take a holiday without me. By Maria V. Snyder Sanity Threatened Holiday

It's incomprehensible to me why a magician would create something that can be used against him. It's like giving your sword to your previously unarmed enemy, and then being surprised when he stabs you with it!" Bruns By Maria V. Snyder Incomprehensible Magician Create Bruns Enemy

We don't take orders from you, Sergeant." Quain said. "Your man tried to assassinate-""He isn't mine. My man has eyes that change color with the seasons. By Maria V. Snyder Sergeant Orders Man Quain Assassinate

If you put enough sheep together you have a herd- a force to be reckoned with. By Maria V. Snyder Herd Put Sheep Force Reckoned

It's the effort, not the results that matter. By Maria V. Snyder Effort Matter Results

Lying to yourself is easy, too. I know. It's much harder to stay and deal with consequences. By Maria V. Snyder Lying Easy Consequences Harder Stay

No, love. You're the only one who has caused me to do the oddest things. You have truly poisoned me. By Maria V. Snyder Love Things Caused Oddest Poisoned

Sieges weathered. By Maria V. Snyder Sieges Weathered

Life is like molten glass. It flows, it's flexible, it can be molded and shaped and ... what do you say? Ah, yes. It holds vast potential. You have a number of uncertainties in your melt right now. But they will always be there in one form or another. Always. Unlike molten glass, life can't be fixed or frozen into a pretty vase and placed on a shelf to gather dust. By Maria V. Snyder Glass Life Molten Flows Flexible

You had lots of visitors, but they were all quiet.""Oh real funny. Tease the blind man." ~Trella to Logan, pg. 114-115 By Maria V. Snyder Visitors Quiet Funny 114115 Trella

Sneaks, spies, defenders, heroes, masterminds, tenacious bastards - it doesn't matter what you call us. We're the ones who will do whatever it takes to stop those who believe they're entitled to wealth and power at the expense of others.""The family business," Yelena said, smiling. By Maria V. Snyder Sneaks Spies Defenders Heroes Masterminds

I feel an extremely annoyed thunderstorm nearby," Kade warned. "Actually, I'm the one annoyed. The thunderstorm could go either way." - Storm Glass By Maria V. Snyder Kade Nearby Warned Annoyed Feel

Sleep? What's that? A new type of casserole? By Maria V. Snyder Sleep Casserole Type

An execution order hasn't kept us apart before. There are ways to get around it. We will be together." "Is that an order?" "No, a promise. By Maria V. Snyder Execution Order Promise

Everyone makes choices in life. Some bad, some good. It's called living, and if you want to bow out, then go right ahead. But don't do it halfway. Don't linger in whiner's limbo. By Maria V. Snyder Life Makes Choices Bad Good

One snake wasn't enough. Time for Perl's suggestion. I handed everyone two capsules and a pin. "Get as close to the guards as you can. Poke a small hole in the capsule and squirt the liquid near them. Don't get it on you," I instructed."Why not?" Leif asked."You'll have a necklace snake trying to mate with you.""Gee, Yelena. I'm so glad you're home," Leif grumbled. "It's good to know Mother is doing something useful with her time.""I thought your mother madeperfumes," Moon Man said."It all depends on how you look at it By Maria V. Snyder Leif Perl Mother Snake Gee

She's the nicest person I know." Zila chewed on her lower lip. "Well, the second nicest. Avry's the first. By Maria V. Snyder Person Nicest Zila Lip Chewed

Knife fighting was his forte, but he wouldn't have time to have a proper match. Pity. By Maria V. Snyder Knife Forte Match Pity Fighting

I do know I felt as if my heart had been shredded when I found you in our storeroom, unconscious and bleeding. And leaving you with Vinco in the holding cells was the hardest thing I've ever done. - Riley to Trella By Maria V. Snyder Storeroom Unconscious Bleeding Felt Heart

A full-out rebellion would take a major amount of luck and coordination. The Tech Nos and Domotor looked at me, waiting. No one else would be able to organize both sides. I drew in a deep breath. We had the technology, the intelligence and the people - put enough sheep together and you have a herd, a force to be reckoned with. We needed a leader. By Maria V. Snyder Coordination Fullout Rebellion Major Amount

I had realized my fears and acknowledged my mistakes. By Maria V. Snyder Mistakes Realized Fears Acknowledged

I reached 1400 weeks, the age of maturity. The age when you were no longer considered a child. It was when you became a scrub and the reality of what the rest of your life would be like became suddenly and brutally apparent. The old-timers called it sweet sixteen, but there wasn't anything sweet about it. I By Maria V. Snyder Weeks Age Reached Maturity Sweet

I reached out blindly, clasped a warm hand, faded from life and into peace.Well, that was what was supposed to happen ... Except an annoying, distracting tug kept pulling and yanking ... When I woke, I thought I had overcome the pull and stayed in the afterlife. Whiteness billowed over me in soft waves. My body was cushioned and cocooned in warmth. I stretched my legs and then tried to raise my arms, but my left arm wouldn't budge. Rolling over, I encountered a number of very unpleasant realities.I was alive. I was in a room. I was naked except for a blood-stained bandage wrapped tight around my stomach. Kerrick lay beside me. And his hand trapped mine.Kill. Me. Now. By Maria V. Snyder Blindly Clasped Faded Peacewell Happen

He pulled back on the bridle, stopping in disbelief. "Your love for him has damaged your senses.""And your hunger for power has affected you intelligence By Maria V. Snyder Bridle Stopping Disbelief Pulled Back

No," I said. "I'm not safe, Belen. Who is going to tear Kerrick's arm off if he hits me again? Come on," I urged. "Stay with us". By Maria V. Snyder Belen Kerrick Stay Safe Urged

I never said it would be easy. Giving up is easy. By Maria V. Snyder Easy Giving

It had been wishful thinking, plain and simple, dangerous for me to indulge in. Hope, happiness and freedom were not in my future. By Maria V. Snyder Thinking Plain Simple Dangerous Hope

My feelings toward you were genuine. Those days we were together as a couple were the happiest of my life. By Maria V. Snyder Genuine Feelings Life Days Couple

Suppressing his relief, Valek asked, "Can you please tell this Lieutenant who he has arrested?""Can do," Janco said with a smile. "Lieutenant Darren, let me be the first to congratulate you on capturing the elusive and legendary Kelav. He's been wanted in Ixia for years on multiple counts of espionage. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Janco Lieutenant Suppressing Relief

Usually, when you slice a person, he backs off or atleast hesitates. And he's more cautious when you have drawn his blood. But these things just keep coming. Their intestines can be falling out, but it doesn't matter. By Maria V. Snyder Person Hesitates Slice Backs Atleast

In the end, only Leif believed that you were still alive. He thought you might be hiding somewhere, playing a game. As the rest of us grieved, Leif searched the jungle for you day after day.""When did he finally stop?" I asked."Yesterday. By Maria V. Snyder Leif End Alive Believed Yesterday

I never laugh at a beautiful woman. I'd much rather laugh and dance with her. By Maria V. Snyder Woman Laugh Beautiful Dance

Good food, fresh water, and an occasional sweet and someone to care for. That's what everyone should have. A simplistic and unrealistic view I knew, but it soothed me. By Maria V. Snyder Good Food Fresh Water Occasional

Trusting is hard. Knowing who to trust, even harder. By Maria V. Snyder Trusting Hard Knowing Trust Harder

One thing Valek did know how to do - sew. The other assassins hadn't called him the King Knitter for nothing. By Maria V. Snyder Sew Valek Thing King Knitter

When I failed to move, Valek pushed me off the mat and curled in my place under the covers. "Ahh. Still warm.""You're evil," I said, but he feigned sleep. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Ahh Move Covers Failed

Oscove?" Valek paused. "He didn't have the stomach for it. By Maria V. Snyder Oscove Valek Paused Stomach

But you've slipped under my skin, invaded my blood and seized my heart. By Maria V. Snyder Skin Invaded Heart Slipped Blood

Can you feel your pulse? That means Valek isn't here, because if he was, you'd be dead. No pulse. By Maria V. Snyder Pulse Feel Valek Dead

Only Valek would consider an attempt on my life a fascinating diversion. By Maria V. Snyder Valek Diversion Attempt Life Fascinating

Another relative?" Valek asked.A broad smile stretched Moon Man's lips. "Yes. I am her mother's uncle's wife'sthird cousin."Valek and Moon Man By Maria V. Snyder Moon Man Relative Valek Lips

The creator had nothing to do with her rescue." "Yeah, he should have cried, thank the Flea!" Quain said. "Ooh, I like. We should use it all the time," Loren added. They tried out variations of it as they headed inside with Flea trotting behind them. "Guess By Maria V. Snyder Yeah Rescue Flea Creator Ooh

... Yelena? Hello?" Leif poked my arm."I'm here.""What are we going to do?" Leif asked me."It's too late to go anywhere else. Kiki and the horses will watch the outside of the building and alert me if anyone approaches.""Ooh, guard horses. How quaint. By Maria V. Snyder Leif Yelena Ooh Horses Arm

You put on such a brave front. But I know if I took another step toward you, you'd wet your pants.''With your blood.' I brandished my knife. But I couldn't keep a straight face; the boast sounded ridiculous even to my own ears. I snickered. She laughed. The release of tension made me giddy, and soon I was laughing and crying. By Maria V. Snyder Front Put Brave Blood Step

Her amber eyes burned into mine with all the hate and loathing she could muster. Underneath, though, she was terrified. Hate and loathing didn't bother me, but fear was a powerful emotion. Fear causes the dog to bite and Roze was one bitch. By Maria V. Snyder Muster Hate Loathing Amber Eyes

We are searching for the same thing," Stripey said."How do you know?" Janco asked."I read his mind." The Sitian pointed to Ari. "Yours was too ... chaotic. Too many useless thoughts to wade through."A compliment or an insult? Janco guessed compliment and preened. By Maria V. Snyder Stripey Thing Said Janco Searching

Fourteen years without a mother had me believe I could be stoic when I finally met her. By Maria V. Snyder Fourteen Years Mother Stoic Finally

You're better off fighting hand to hand than wielding a weapon you don't know how to use. A skilled opponent would simply disarm you. Then your troubles would be doubled. Not only would you be under attack, but you'd have to counter your own weapon By Maria V. Snyder Hand Fighting Wielding Weapon Skilled

There, that's better. Now you look like the wild scrub that fell into my life.""Because you loosened the vent's screws.""Best. Decision. Ever. By Maria V. Snyder Decision Life Screws Wild Scrub

His movements were so graceful that I wondered if he had been a dancer, but his words betrayed to me that his fluid gestures were those of a trained killer. By Maria V. Snyder Dancer Killer Movements Graceful Wondered

Riley squinted. He ran his fingers along my neck. When he found the collar he explored the surface and tried to tug it. "No seams. It doesn't fell like metal. The colour is amazing". "Why?" (Trella) "It blends in. It matches your skin. Didn't you know?" (Riley) "No mirrors in my cell." (Trella) He gasped with mock horror. "So cruel! How did you ever survive?" (Riley) By Maria V. Snyder Trella Riley Squinted Neck Ran

Nothing says you care for me better than offering to torture my enemies."He grinned. "No sense doing things halfhearted. And to think, some girls have to endure listening to poetry. By Maria V. Snyder Enemies Grinned Care Offering Torture

I am Trella the victorious leader of the Force of Sheep rebellion. Yes the name sounds ridiculous, and I still can't believe we named a major life changing event after livestock - or actually a stuffed animal - but it made sense at the time. By Maria V. Snyder Trella Force Sheep Rebellion Victorious

I stepped closer to him and lowered my voice. 'If you could change one thing, what would it be?'He pulled the sheep pendant from his pocket. A question filled his eyes. I held out my hand. Riley placed it in my palm and I curled my finger around the necklace, pressing the metal into my skin. By Maria V. Snyder Voice Stepped Closer Lowered Thing

Ari grunted a greeting. "What took you ... so long?" His breath huffed with the effort."I stopped for a snack, and ordered us a couple beers," Janco said. "We should finish him soon. I hate warm beer. By Maria V. Snyder Ari Greeting Grunted Janco Long

Poisoned, pursued and living with a psychopath. Not what I would consider the good life. Death has its perks. By Maria V. Snyder Poisoned Pursued Psychopath Living Life

Knowledge, whatever the form, could be as effective as a weapon. By Maria V. Snyder Knowledge Form Weapon Effective

Nothing like having a warrant for your execution to get a girl motivated. By Maria V. Snyder Motivated Warrant Execution Girl

Weariness seemed to settle on him like a coating of dust. By Maria V. Snyder Weariness Dust Settle Coating

Parents teach their children to share, to play fair, to be honest. But ... surprise! Life isn't fair. And it takes a while to transition from the childhood lies to the adult reality. I By Maria V. Snyder Parents Share Honest Fair Teach

Old soul." I laughed. "You're Thirty.""It's not the years, it's the experience," he paused. By Maria V. Snyder Soul Thirty Laughed Years Experience

The past shouldn't be forgotten. It should be used as a guide for future situations and not used as a reason to avoid making difficult decisions. There was always a choice. By Maria V. Snyder Forgotten Past Decisions Choice Guide

The benefit of appearing so young is I'm constantly underestimated By Maria V. Snyder Underestimated Benefit Appearing Young Constantly

No need to act, i let my fear show "He killed himself," i whispered.Eve raised an eyebrow. "Fourteen times?""He had bad aim. By Maria V. Snyder Act Show Eyebrow Fourteen Fear

Being a scrub was undesirable and hard work, living in crowded conditions with no privacy and just being one of many. Undistinguishable. By Maria V. Snyder Work Living Undistinguishable Scrub Undesirable

I doubt I would ever be missed. Noted absent, charged delinquent, reprimanded but never missed. By Maria V. Snyder Missed Doubt Noted Absent Charged

Locked in darkness that surrounded me like a coffin, I had nothing to distract me from my memories. By Maria V. Snyder Locked Coffin Memories Darkness Surrounded

Every person has the latent ability to read minds and influence the physical world without touching it, but they don't have the ability to connect with the power source. By Maria V. Snyder Ability Source Person Latent Read

Before he turned away, I asked, 'What do you need?' 'I need you. I need to give you a proper kiss. I need you to be my mate. By Maria V. Snyder Asked Turned Kiss Mate Give

Liv held out her right index finger. "I've got a splinter that I can't get out. It's killing me and affecting my duty.""Uh-huh." I examined the minuscule speck that could be dirt. By Maria V. Snyder Liv Finger Held Index Uhhuh

For the first time, I was the center of attention. Everyone watched me as if I were a bomb. Would I explode and cause a disaster or would I pop and cause a miracle? By Maria V. Snyder Time Attention Center Bomb Watched

It was in the crypt," Loren said, gesturing. "We just managed to get it here after you pulled your little surprise on us.""You're the best." I blew him a kiss."Hey, what about me?" Quain asked."You're second best, as always," Loren said. By Maria V. Snyder Loren Gesturing Crypt Hey Kiss

Only the weak invite their demons to live with them. Isn't that right? By Maria V. Snyder Weak Invite Demons Live

He grows on you. Sort of like a barnacle. By Maria V. Snyder Grows Sort Barnacle

You are afraid." Leif challenged."Am not.""Are too.""Am not.""Then prove it."I opened my mouth, but no sound came out.Finally, I said, "I hate you."Leif smiled. "The feeling is mutual By Maria V. Snyder Leif Not Afraid Challenged Too

Your path is clear," said Moon Man. "You need to find it."And the best way to find something you had lost was to return to the last place you remembered having it. In my case, I needed to start at the very beginning. By Maria V. Snyder Man Moon Clear Path Find

Of course, you didn't want our help. Now I have to go beat up some soldier just to keep my ego intact. By Maria V. Snyder Intact Beat Soldier Ego

We should make a list of who doesn't want to kill you, love. It'd be shorter. I'd be offended, but it was actually a good idea. By Maria V. Snyder Love Make List Kill Shorter

Should haves lead to death By Maria V. Snyder Death Lead

Yes, I thought I'd try electrocution next. Since a bomb, a fire, Vinco's knife and a brief encounter with outer space didn't kill me. By Maria V. Snyder Thought Electrocution Vinco Bomb Fire

You should know what happens when you play with fire, Cahill. Eventually, you'll get burned. By Maria V. Snyder Cahill Fire Play Eventually Burned

THAT'S PATHETIC, YELENA," Dax complained. "An all-powerful Soulfinder who isn't all-powerful. Where's the fun in that?" He threw up his long thin arms in mock frustration."Sorry to disappoint you, but I'm not the one who attached the 'all-powerful' to the title. By Maria V. Snyder Yelena Pathetic Dax Complained Allpowerful

I'm glad you're here. We've had some ... interesting developments." Leif groaned. "That's Yelena-speak for life-threatening danger. By Maria V. Snyder Glad Yelenaspeak Interesting Developments Leif

To Yelena, our newest food taster. May you last longer than your predecessor. By Maria V. Snyder Yelena Taster Newest Food Predecessor

As far as threats went, Yelena couldn't be outdone. By Maria V. Snyder Yelena Outdone Threats

They were trying to discover a cure for the toxin," I said."It doesn't matter what the intentions were or what the logic was behind the decision. What matters is that six million people died." Quain gasped in mock horror. "Unless those six million people are pretending to be dead. By Maria V. Snyder Toxin Said Decision Million Discover

I didn't want or expect this. But I couldn't resist you. By Maria V. Snyder Expect Resist

Two men. I had just killed two men. A killing machine, I hadn't even hesitated. Fear and rage settled deep in my chest, forming a layer of ice around my heart. By Maria V. Snyder Men Machine Hesitated Killed Fear

Love trumps logic?""Every time, By Maria V. Snyder Love Logic Time Trumps

Living with your decision must be hard. Nothing I or anyone can say will give you any peace. You must reconcile your actions in your heart. By Maria V. Snyder Living Hard Decision Peace Heart

Trella! You're here," he said with glee."Even though I'm not as smart as you, I do know where I am. By Maria V. Snyder Trella Glee Smart

Yalena: Could you always open your door?Kiki: Yes. Fence, too.Yalena Why don't you?Kiki: Hay sweet. Fresh water. Peppermints. By Maria V. Snyder Kiki Yalena Door Hay Fence

One, and two, and three, four, five. Keep fighting like this and you will die, Janco sang. By Maria V. Snyder Janco Die Sang Fighting

Janco smiled with a predatory grin. If anyone beats us. And I'm feeling disinclined to allow that to happen. By Maria V. Snyder Janco Grin Smiled Predatory Happen

Everyone grieves in different ways. For some, it could take longer or shorter. I do know it never disappears. An ember still smolders inside me. Most days, I don't notice it, but, out of the blue, it'll flare to life. By Maria V. Snyder Grieves Shorter Longer Disappears Days

I never pretended with you. By Maria V. Snyder Pretended

I am not a fool. By Maria V. Snyder Fool

I'll have you know that the most delicate flowers often produce the strongest scent when crushed. By Maria V. Snyder Crushed Delicate Flowers Produce Strongest

Don't feel ashamed for having those feelings and those memories. What happened in the past can't be changed, but they can be a guide for what happens in the future. By Maria V. Snyder Memories Feel Ashamed Feelings Changed

Your fear remains strong. You are not ready to face your story, preferring instead to surround yourself with knots. Someday, they will strangle you. By Maria V. Snyder Strong Fear Remains Someday Story

But they fight in the name of the creator." "I don't care if they fight in the name of broccoli. The goal remains the same. By Maria V. Snyder Fight Creator Broccoli Care Goal

No hope, is worse than fear. By Maria V. Snyder Hope Fear Worse

It's the problem with mistakes, they tend to linger. By Maria V. Snyder Mistakes Linger Problem Tend

Trust, Kiki said, Trust is peppermints. By Maria V. Snyder Trust Kiki Peppermints

The Queen Seeker was back! By Maria V. Snyder Queen Seeker Back

When the effort fails, is it worth the cost? By Maria V. Snyder Fails Cost Effort Worth

Positive thoughts lead to positive results. By Maria V. Snyder Results Positive Thoughts Lead

I gave him a bored look. I had been threatened many times before and had learned that the men who didn't make verbal threats were the most dangerous. By Maria V. Snyder Gave Bored Dangerous Threatened Times

Your life is like this snake's coils. No matter how many turns it makes, you'll end up back where you belong. By Maria V. Snyder Coils Life Snake Makes Belong

Kerrick the weed. By Maria V. Snyder Kerrick Weed

But how many times can you upset someone and still return to normal? Isn't there a point when the person gives up on you? By Maria V. Snyder Normal Times Upset Return Point

What happened in the past can't be changed, but it can be a guide for what happens in your future. By Maria V. Snyder Changed Future Happened Past Guide

Knowing and believing are sometimes hard to combine. By Maria V. Snyder Knowing Combine Believing Hard

Unfortunately, diplomacy was a dance I needed to learn. By Maria V. Snyder Diplomacy Learn Dance Needed

They were my family, yet they were strangers. By Maria V. Snyder Family Strangers

I'd like you to make a commitment to me as well. Will you be my mate? By Maria V. Snyder Make Commitment Mate

Right before I was escorted to the jail, Fawn waved bye bye to me. I smiled. My empty, pointless life for hers. Not bad. By Maria V. Snyder Fawn Bye Jail Escorted Waved

I peered deeper and found my soul. A little tattered and with some holes, but there all the same. It had always been there, I realized with shock. By Maria V. Snyder Soul Peered Deeper Found Holes

But it seems there is more than one way to poison a person's heart, and it doesn't require a meal. By Maria V. Snyder Heart Meal Poison Person Require

Don't knock the power of a pest," Leif said. "Persistance and stubborness can be useful in many situations. By Maria V. Snyder Leif Pest Persistance Knock Power

His words sliced through my heart, cutting it into little pathetic pieces. By Maria V. Snyder Heart Cutting Pieces Words Sliced

They actually think I would abandon the Commander. they have no concept of loyalty. By Maria V. Snyder Commander Abandon Loyalty Concept

Don't worry," I said. "These men are good. They're going to heal the world. By Maria V. Snyder Worry Good World Men Heal

My mind's screaming went unvoiced. Logic grabbed the panic and wrestled it to the ground. By Maria V. Snyder Unvoiced Mind Screaming Logic Ground

Emotion gives us strength.""At the right time and place. By Maria V. Snyder Emotion Strength Place Time

I may have discovered what those beans are." It was a weak opening. What I really wanted to say was, "What the hell's the matter with you?" But I thought a soft approach more prudent. By Maria V. Snyder Discovered Beans Opening Weak Prudent

And clay-caked clothes are so last year. By Maria V. Snyder Year Claycaked Clothes

Some Queen of the Pipes, I thought. I'd believed I was better than a mindless drone. But I was the mindless one, hiding away. Even now I referred to them as if I didn't belong. By Maria V. Snyder Pipes Queen Thought Mindless Drone

I offer my heart, entrust my soul and give my life to you. By Maria V. Snyder Heart Entrust Offer Soul Give

Exactly. You can shoulder all the blame and become a martyr. Provided anyone knows what or who you're martyring for. Or you can accept that some things are important enough to fight for and realize there will be sacrifices along the way. By Maria V. Snyder Martyr Provided Shoulder Blame Martyring

Lavender Lady not go again," Kiki said in my mind."I'll try to avoid it. No promises, though."She huffed. "Next time Kiki go.""A Horsefinder?""Help Lavender Lady. By Maria V. Snyder Lady Kiki Mind Lavender Though

You're living in the present. It's a reminder that you can see the future if you just point the glass in the right direction. By Maria V. Snyder Present Living Direction Reminder Future