“The very idea of making shoes by hand boggled her mind.”

“My name is tally youngblood and my mind is very ugly”

“He turned to face her again, his late-pretty composure crumbling. "But you're...""Pretty? Think again." She smiled. "I'm Tally Youngbood. My mind is very ugly. And I'm taking your car.”

“The physical beauty…also cleared her mind of worries. Every day seemed to change the mountain, the sky, and the surrounding valleys, making them spectacular in a completely new way. Nature, at least, didn’t need an operation to be beautiful. It just was.”

“I'm a girl."When Deryn opened her eyes, the lady boffin was staring at her with no change of expression. "Indeed," she said.Deryn's mouth feel open. "You mean you...Did you barking know?""I had no idea at all. But I make it a policy never to appear surprised." Dr. Barlow sighed, staring out the window. "Though on this occasion, it is proving rather more demanding than usual. A girl, you say? And you're quite certain?”

“Alek was right behind her now, his body pressing close as he adjusted her sword arm. She hadn't realized this fencing business would be so touchy. He grasped her waist, sending a crackle across her skin.If Alek moved his hands any higher, he might notice what was hidden beneath her careful tailoring.“Always keep sideways to your opponent,” he said, gently turning her. “That way, your chest presents the smallest possible target.”“Aye, the smallest possible target,” Deryn sighed. Her secret was safe, it seemed.”

“You don't look very happy."Tally tried to smile. David had shared his biggest secret with her; she should tell him hers. But she wasn't brave enough to say the words. "It's been a long night. That's all."He smiled back. "Don't worry, it won't last forever.”