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Costis flinched and looked away from this compensation to…

“Costis flinched and looked away from this compensation to the king's handicap, only to find himself looking into the king's face instead. Eugenides matched Costis look for look, his expression grave, his eyes like pools of darkness deeper than Costis could penetrate. For a moment Costis could see…” quote by Megan Whalen Turner
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““Costis flinched and looked away from this compensation to the king's handicap, only to find himself looking into the king's face instead. Eugenides matched Costis look for look, his expression grave, his eyes like pools of darkness deeper than Costis could penetrate. For a moment Costis could see, not so much what was hidden but that there were things hidden that the king did not choose to reveal. Things that were not for Costis to see. There was no understanding him, but Costis knew he would march into hell for this fathomless king.””

Megan Whalen Turner

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Costis confronts a powerful ruler, realizing hidden truths that are beyond his grasp, prompting a willingness to sacrifice everything.

In simple terms: Facing hidden truths of a ruler leads to ultimate sacrifice.

Key Takeaway

Accept unknown limits, act with courage.

Themes

power secrecy sacrifice truth

Mood

tense dramatic

Type

literary dramatic

When to use this quote

  • court intrigue
  • leadership decisions
  • personal sacrifice

Key Concepts

political intrigue personal duty mystery

Questions to Reflect On

  • What would you risk for a cause you cannot fully understand?
  • How do hidden motives affect loyalty?
A Different Perspective

Limited knowledge can lead to reckless devotion.

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