If magic was present, it moved under the skin of the world, beneath the ability of human eyes to catch sight of it.

[Puggles] "What population signs on willingly for slavery?" "You mean other than wives?" [Glinda]

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

I am a forgettable leaf on a tree.

To look into the mirror is to see the future, in blood and rubies.

Yes, I'm nervous. You'll find in time most people are. They simply learn better how to disguise it, and sometimes, if they're wise, how to use their anxiety to serve the public good.

The body apologizes to the soul for its errors, and the soul asks forgiveness for squatting in the body without invitation.