Gaze Quote by Kiersten White
““What do you think?” She turned to Reth, who avoided her eyes, staring determinedly into the sparkling pink distance. “You are the queen. Why are you asking me?” “Because I value your opinion.” “Excuse me,” I said, since obviously she wasn’t used to Reth’s sneaky circular way of talking. “You do realize he didn’t answer your question, right?” Reth glared at me, then looked back at the Light Queen. “I could not say what I think.” The Light Queen narrowed her eyes. “Could not say, or will not say?” “Slim difference between the two.” “My golden son, the mortal realms have changed you. Would you deceive even me?” I snorted. “You don’t know Reth very well if you think he’s ever straightforward about anything.” His full lips twitched toward a smile. “Will not say.” “I command you to.” The smile bloomed, full and sly. “Ah, but not even you know my name now.” Her huge cat-shaped eyes went round with shock. “Have you no loyalty?” “I do. I am loyal to myself and I am loyal to what Evelyn should become. Everything I do is to those ends, to securing the eternity we should have together.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Light Queen, 2022
A dialogue reveals a character’s evasiveness and loyalty conflict, highlighting the tension between truth, self‑preservation, and political intrigue.
In simple terms: Characters dodge questions, balancing loyalty and honesty.
Clarify motives and confront evasiveness directly.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- court negotiations
- political alliances
- personal confrontations
- secret missions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives a character to with truth?
- How does loyalty shape their choices?
Evasion can breed mistrust and manipulation.