She could endure the separation, the despair, so long as she could cling to a thread of hope. But knew that a thread was all she could expect.”
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: This is the first clue that Lady Eleanor is going to send Owen as Severn's captive because she has a “thread of hope” that someone at the castle will help protect him.

He's the king's hostage. … This lad's days are numbered.”
-- Berwick (chapter 4)

Importance: Berwick is addressing Liona about Owen after Liona tries to make him act respectfully toward Owen and to speak in a way that will not frighten Owen. Berwick's response makes it clear that he does not agree with Liona that Owen is Severn's “ward,” and this conversation helps Owen fully realize the danger he is facing.

The reason most people don't arrive at a destination is that they never embark. They think of all the reasons they can't do it, so...
-- Ankarette (chapter 11)