There was much to hate in this world and too much to love.

Not an ugly color, Nanny thought. Just not a human color.

It was deliciously pagan.

Perhaps family itself, like beauty, is temporary, and no discredit need attach to impermanence.

She wasn't afraid of doing good or of resisting evil. She was merely afraid she might not be able to tell the difference.

However in the world did her skin come green?" Nanny wondered, stupidly, for Melena blanched and Frex reddened, and the baby held her breath as if trying to turn blue to please them all. Nanny had to slap her to make her breath again.

Remember this: Nothing is written in the stars. Not these stars, nor any others. No one controls your destiny.