Des

“That all their kindness was because she was a nun in distress, not because she was worthy in her own right. Stranger yet, she cared. It is easier to travel together in hard country. That’s all. That must be all. And I was lonely because I felt so alone and helpless without my sisters, even in Bastian’s house. It is only hope and camaraderie that makes me feel less lonely with these people. That’s the only reason I am reluctant to part ways, and why I keep hoping something will happen to prove that I am useful.”
― T. Kingfisher, Paladin's Strength

“Istvhan had never yet blamed a woman because he was attracted to her, and he certainly wasn’t about to start now.”
― T. Kingfisher, Paladin's Strength

“Stephen told him that she had moved a second chair into the workshop so that he could knit in the same room with her, which, judging by Stephen’s reaction, was a declaration of affection unmatched in modern times.”
― T. Kingfisher, Paladin's Strength

“And you think they’ve come to Morstone?” asked Raulann. Istvhan spread his hands. “I think they’re in the area. It’s worth alerting the city watch if you can.” “There isn’t one,” said the Bishop. Clara had rarely seen Istvhan taken aback. “There isn’t?” “Ironically, one of the few good things the Sealords did in recent memory. They were a corrupt pack of bullies, extorting money from impoverished neighborhoods.”
― T. Kingfisher, Paladin's Strength