“Or as Gabe had done, to rescue your betrothed from some evil force. That appealed to him. But he'd yet to find a damsel in distress, oppressed by evil and in need of rescue.”

“He considered telling her that she could, and often, if she married him.”

“I will come back for you as soon as I can." He stared at her, running a hand over his short beard. "I was about to promise you that I will get back, but the truth is, I could get captured by my uncle and his men. Many other things could happen, and I don't want to leave you.”

“Magdalen, the girl with pretty green eyes. Magdalen, who was smiling so warmly right now at Lenhart, who was attentive to Katrin even when she talked too much. She had been so gentle and concerned about his wounds, washing his face and bringing him fresh water to drink.”

“Promise me that if you get a chance to escape without me, you will do it. He won't kill me. Go find your men and come back for me." His eyelids and brows lowered. " You don't know me very well or you wouldn't say such a thing. I won't leave you.”

“Ruexner chuckled and put away his knife. Gisela kept her eyes on Valten. Even though her bottom lip trembled, she still looked like the bravest woman he had ever seen.”

“She whispered, "Even with a broken hand, you are the knight I'd most want and trust to rescue me-and I know you can do it. You are the boldest, bravest, most noble knight in the Holy Empire.”

“She was so lovely, it hurt his chest to gaze at her, especially knowing she was courageous and clever too.”

“If you die fighting, I want to die fighting with you.”

“You are brave and strong and good, noble and kind. I love you and I think you're...”

“Ruexner will pay dearly for this," Valten promised, speaking to no one in particular, but imagining he had the fiend's neck between his hands. If he dared hurt Gisela...”