First place Quote by Esther M. Friesner
““Where have you been, Milo?” I asked quietly. “It’s been three days.” “Working for Jason,” Milo replied, his voice low. I frowned, setting the arrow to the bow. Anyone watching us would think I was the world’s most cautious shot. “Doing what?” My muscles strained as I pulled the bowstring back. “Protecting you.” The bowstring released with a loud twang, and the arrow arced through the air, barely grazing the top of the target before falling to the earth beyond it. A few of the men practicing with javelins saw my miss and called out that I’d find a spindle easier to manage than a bow. I snatched up a second arrow and buried it fletch-deep in the core of the target. The jeering stopped. Only then did I return my attention to Milo. “That makes no sense,” I muttered. “In the first place, what protection do I need? And since when does Jason care about anyone’s skin but his own?” “There may be more to Jason than you think,” Milo said softly.””
About This Quote
Source Short story: “The Archer’s Dilemma” by Esther M. Friesner, 2015
A skilled archer doubts the purpose of protecting someone when the protector’s motives are unclear, highlighting tension between duty and trust.
In simple terms: Questioning why we protect others when motives are uncertain.
Key Takeaway
Examine your own reasons for protecting others.
Themes
trust
duty
skepticism
motivation
conflict
Mood
tense
reflective
inquisitive
Type
literary
dialogue
character‑driven
When to use this quote
- combat training
- team dynamics
- leadership decisions
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
moral ambiguity
personal responsibility
self‑doubt
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your desire to protect?
- How do you verify the motives of those you serve?
A Different Perspective
The archer’s skill is irrelevant if the purpose behind it is misunderstood.
