Ansset could clearly hear the fear singing through the back of his brave words. Well, why not? Death was certain now, and Ansset knew of no one, except perhaps an old man like Mikal, who could look at death, especially death that also meant failure, without some fear

One of the dangers of being so close to the center of power - one had to accept the whims of the powerful

Ansset watched, keeping his promise but wishing with all his heart that somewhere in his mind there was a wall he could hide behind. Unfortunately, he was too …

Don't try it with me. I can't be fooled Only a fool can't be fooled. You pretend not to like Mikal. But of all the people here, you're the one most like him

I have no fear nor shrinking; I have seen death so often that it is not strange or fearful to me.

[he] looked death in the eye and did not seem disappointed

I'm not scared of dying And I, don't really care If it' s peace you find in dying Well then, let the time be near.