The Ragpicker King (The Chronicles of Castellane, #2)

by Cassandra Clare

“I love giraffes. They always look surprised to be up so high.”

“Forget anything Jerrod or I may have said about the dangers of murdering Gremont,” Kel said, his voice low but surprisingly steady. “Go ahead and kill him.” Merren did not look surprised. He did, however, look relieved. “I’m so glad you said that.” He exhaled. “You see, I’ve already poisoned his wine.”

What you will soon discover about being a leader, Goddess, is that you are only a vessel for your people’s hopes and fears, their dreams and desperations. What you want does not matter.”

“Sacrifice?” Kel bit back. “It has always been my understanding that for a sacrifice to have meaning, you must surrender something that matters to you. Not sacrifice your own daughter in your stead.”