I learned failure early and mastered it.

Approval is overrated...Approval and disapproval alike satisfy those who deliver it more than those who receive it. I don't care for approval, and I don't mind doing without.

The thing about a mirror is this: The one who stares into it is condemned to consider the world from her own perspective.

The moon rose, an opalescent goddess tipping light from her harsh maternal scimitar.

When the times are a crucible, when the air is full of crisis, those who are the most themselves are the victims.

Her sister's shoes. They sparkeled even in the darkening afternoon. They sparkeled like yellow diamonds, and embers of blood and thorny stars.

I shall pray for your soul,' promised Nessarose. I shall wait for your shoes,' Elphie answered.