But when addressing Luguselwa, Meg’s voice played in an entirely different key. She sounded as if her best friend had just dismembered her favorite doll for no reason and without warning. She sounded hurt, confused, incredulous- as if, in a life full of indignities, this was one indignity she never could have anticipated.
-- Apollo (chapter 1)

Importance: This quote shows how important Luguselwa is to Meg even before the reader learns their exact connection. It is clear that Meg has suffered a lot in her short life. She has experienced tragedy time and time again. She has been abused by Nero, something that Apollo frequently worries about. But Luguselwa’s supposed betrayal is the worst thing Meg can think of. This also casts doubt on both Apollo and the reader when Luguselwa helps them, as both are left to wonder whether or not she is actually trustworthy, or just being used by Nero...