Our theories stand. We both see clearly; we know what’s right. Even if it’s not always possible to act on it, don’t you think it matters to be able t… - Ellen Kushner

"The trouble with you," the Ugly Girl said, "is that you think you know just what everyone should do, don't you?"
The Mad Duke smiled at her. His face was bright and sharp, smooth and glittering. "Yes," he said, "I do."
"And what," she said, "if you're wrong?"
"And what," he said, "if I'm not?"

In a city where most of the wealth is controlled by a small few, certain things are overlooked, particularly when it comes to the assertion of privilege.

In real life, my sweet poet," the duke said as the swordsmen circled, "words can never be undone.