How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
But like every visit and tea and party Ani attended, she was aware that others expected the crown princess to act, speak, and think as queenly as her mother, a feat that for her, Ani was certain, was as likely as her blowing down the wind. (2.8)
Funny thing: Ani does blow down the wind by the end, but she doesn't know that yet. Acting like a princess is more about power than anything else—her mom wants her daughter to command respect and authority from people, and it turns out, Ani just isn't into that gig.
Quote #2
Ani thought perhaps it was that she cared too much. She was constantly worried about what others thought of her, and how every word she spoke could condemn her further. Ani thought how to explain that to Selia and decided that she could not. Selia's ease with strangers and friends alike made Ani sure she would not understand. (2.29)
Here Ani digs deep and thinks about why she's not a great princess—rulers can't worry about what people think all the time since it doesn't make them seem strong and noble. In fact, it's only once Ani stops caring so much about what people think of her that she gains any real power.
Quote #3
"You cannot just allow her to take away what is rightfully yours."
"And I cannot take it back. I have no power here, Selia." (3.3-4)
We couldn't have said it better ourselves. Ani realizes that next to her mom she's got nothing. She might be a princess, but her mom overrules her, and she can't do anything about her mom's decisions—even if she disagrees with them. It's telling that Selia thinks it's as easy as just snatching the power back, since that's her signature move.