" When the man arises who can make you laugh, solemn Ista, angry Ista, iron Ista, then will your heart be healed. You have not prayed for this: it’s a guerdon even the gods cannot give you. We are limited to such simples as redemption from your sins. "

― Lois McMaster Bujold , Paladin of Souls (World of the Five Gods, #2)