" And, in the end, isn’t that all dignity is? The boundaries and values you decide for yourself? I know what matters most to me, and it has nothing to do with any semblance of “purity.” I will not make myself small and crumple into a sad creature of fear that lives to please Li Shimin in hopes of earning his mercy. "

― Xiran Jay Zhao , Iron Widow (Iron Widow, #1)