The power of words
Bardugo uses a metaphor in the following passage, to describe how words carry weight. Essentially, this is emphasizing how words are powerful:
"The less you say the more weight your words will carry."
Princes bleed just like other men
In this encounter between Mal and Nikolai, Mal uses a simile to describe how Nikolai is no different from other people, despite his status:
"Watch yourself, Nikolai, " Mal said softly. "Princes bleed just like other men."
Like fools
Bardugo uses a simile in the following passage:
“You two have a bad habit of acting like fools and calling it heroic.”
Here, Bardugo utilizes the phrase "like a fool," which is used to describe someone who is unintelligent or silly.
Mal's loyalty
Mal's dedication to Alina is emphasized with the use of a metaphor. In the following passage, Mal compares Alina to his "flag" and "nation," meaning his patriotic energy is directed towards her:
“He tapped the sun over his heart. "I came here for you. You're my flag. You're my nation.”
The Prince
Mal describes Nikolai and his great talents, saying:
“I don’t even trust myself. I’ve never seen anyone work a crowd the way he does. I’m pretty sure the rocks and trees are getting ready to swear fealty to him.”
He uses a metaphor to describe how even nature is bowing down to the prince.
