They may be called the Palace Guard, the City Guard, or the Patrol. Whatever the name, their purpose in any work of heroic fantasy is identical: it is, round about Chapter Three (or ten minutes into the film) to rush into the room, attack the hero one at a time, and be slaughtered. No one ever asks them if they want to. This book is dedicated to those fine men.

I don't really plan. I'm almost intuitive about things.

Vimes had got around to a Clean Desk policy. It was a Clean Floor strategy that eluded him at the moment.

Vimes stalked gloomily through the crowded streets, feeling like the only pickled onion in a fruit salad.

Freedom without limits is just a word.

Because some stories end, but old stories go on, and you gotta dance to the music if you want to stay ahead

Everyone should occasionally break the law in some small and delightful way. It's good for the hygiene of the brain.