How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
The anonymity of her goose girl costume and name gave leash to a freedom that she had never dared exhibit when she had been the crown princess shivering in her mother's shadow. Her throat felt dry. She coughed, and realized that she was mortified. (9.72)
After she steals Geric's horse, Ani recoils a bit once she realizes what she's done. Check out how she calls her clothes a "costume" as if she is just playing a part. The only problem is that no one but her knows this isn't her real life because she's lost all of her royal power.
Quote #8
She held up the dress against her now, the ray of setting sun brightening her eyes, painting her face a yellow rose, regal as her mother. "But different," she whispered. "Not her. Me. Ani. Isi." (18.117)
When she looks at herself in the mirror with her old princess dress, Ani finds power in being herself. It's a big moment for her when she stops trying to be her mom and realizes she can be powerful all by herself—as long as she doesn't pretend anymore.
Quote #9
Her plan, if it worked, would get them through the gate. After that, the only power she could depend on was that of words, and her weaknesses haunted her. (19.51)
Ani knows she's got no power when it comes to speaking, like Selia does, but it turns out that she doesn't need that gift after all. Remember when Ani's aunt told her that rulers can usually people-speak? Well Ani can't do that, but she has a bunch of other gifts that are just as—if not more—powerful. Wind-talking, anyone?