The books contained poems, philosophical treaties, and essays on statecraft written by legendary scholars of Nikan's past. They were meant to shape the moral character of the nation's future statesmen. And they were, without exception, hopelessly confusing."
-- Rin (One)

Importance: This particular quote is indicative of Rin's mindset to morality. She is incredibly confused by morality and how it applies to politics. It sets up readers to expect Rin's decisions to be morally ambiguous later on in the novel.

They'll make you an outsider, because you are not like them.
-- Tutor Feyrik (Two )

Importance: This quote is an early introduction into the theme of being an outcast. It informs readers that Rin will be, and has always been, made an outcast because she is different than the majority. Rin, and other characters, will struggle with acceptance, with this quote being one of the first indicators of that.

Power dictates acceptability.
-- Kitay (Four)

Importance: Kitay's statement about power touches on the...