#i have yet to listen to the indomitable duelist so pls no spoilers

[dontbelasagne]

catching up on second citadel and agonising over how they not only explore the trope of "what we sacrifice for love" but extend that to "what parts of ourselves have we made space for love to remain and thrive". its seen in the way Lord Arum still declares himself a proud lizard but that now includes whatever it will take to keep his promise and return to Rilla and Sir Damien. it's in how Quanyii opens their arms to the universe itself, not out of indulgence, but to protect and prove they are worthy of connection to those who have given her love in return. it's how Sir Angelo has made what he cherishes in others a part of himself to always keep those people feeling near. it's in how Rilla saw worth in what years of her passion could accomplish, even if that was only to know your loved ones are safe.

and it's in how everyone desperately wants to succeed, not out of merit or having a space amongst those who remain, but to claw for and keep close what they know to symbolise love.