Go ahead. Insult me. His eyebrows go up. I don't take commands from mortals, he says with his customary cruel smile.
Cardan grins at me as though we've been great friends all our lives. I forgot how charming he can be--and how dangerous that is.
The odd thing about ambition is this: You can acquire it like a fever, but it is not so easy to shed.
Sharpen your heart.
You have only seen the least of what I can do.
Whoever controls the king, controls the kingdom
Harden your heart.
Guard your mortal heart.
You really do want me,' I say, close enough to feel the warmth of his breath as it hitches. 'And you hate it.