Or perhaps I didn't. Perhaps in the delirium of heat and smoke and fear, I imagined it all.”
-- Ven (1 )

Importance: Ven has just described seeing a kakuy for the first time during the fire that results in Vae's death. His disclaimer – that he may have imagined it – appears repeatedly in this story.

Did we not learn from the great burning how the richest considered their lives more valuable, their moral worth and social deserts superior to those of the poorest?”
-- Ven (5 )

Importance: Ven is recounting this as summing up the attitude of the Council. They believe that the good of society and the world as a whole is more important than the rights or wishes of any individual.

Yet our most convincing argument was not one of universal fellowship, of compassion and justice and the bounty of this shared, sacred earth. Our most convincing argument was simply this: do not go to war lest...
-- Ven (8 )