Jonathan Stroud. The Gate Of Ptolemy (№ 455756)

According to some people [Mostly those who are not in danger of experiencing it firsthand. All sorts of politicians and writers immediately come to mind.], a heroic death is a wonderful thing. This argument has never convinced me, primarily because no matter how noble, elegant, restrained, proud and adamant you are, no matter how courageous and dignified you are, in the end you will still be dead. And this state, for my taste, is a little too constant.