Typhaine

“I pledge my life to the unseen world,” she said, her voice ringing loud and clear. “My soul to the protection of those who suffer. On my life and my soul I swear to never stand quiet before abuse or stay my hand when my strength may aid the world’s good. I pledge my life and my soul to the spirits, and those who aid me I will bind in solemn promise: power for service, strength for obedience, a servant to the Court and the spirits it defends until the end of our days. This is my oath, and may my life be forfeit before ever I am forsworn.”
― Rachel Aaron, Spirit's End

“Men took themselves so seriously and seemed to insist on arguing even the most trivial points.”
― Barbara Pym, The Barbara Pym Collection Volume One: A Glass of Blessings / Some Tame Gazelle / and Jane and Prudence

“The decanter should start with the host and be passed around the table to the left, each gentleman…er, person pouring for whoever is seated on his right. In this case, because we are in the library instead of the dining room, the rules may be relaxed somewhat, I suppose, but the basic form stands. Always pass to the left. When your glass is empty, never ask directly for more. Instead inquire if the person nearest the decanter knows the bishop of Norwich. Any educated chap will know what you mean and pass you the decanter.”
― Tasha Alexander, And Only to Deceive