I wrinkle my nose at Elektra, trying to remain serious, as if I am too old to be chucked under the chin like a baby. I am growing but I feel young and playful and my mind has not yet grown into my expectations. This awkward in between stage leaves me feeling all legs and emotional upheaval. Even the tangle of my hair is an annoyance. I sigh, giving mama a side long look. I bet she was never ungraceful.
I grin at Elektra. She seems to inspire that sort of mirthful response. Her irreverence towards life is contagious, although I have the feeling mother would appreciate it if I took after some like Rhy or Joscelin. Still, I like this brightly colored mare.
"Perhaps Elektra would be useful in the air force, mama. Didn't you say we needed more fighters?" I look up at her innocently. I catch diplomatic and strategic conversation all the time as my mother's shadow and though I only understand half of it, I store the knowledge away for when it will be needed.
After all, I intend to be as useful as I can. Soon enough I want to learn to fight and lead and all of the other things my mother seems to do so effortlessly. It may be cliche for a girl to want to copy her parent, but it's a cliche for a reason. My mother is wonderful.
"Lyris or Joscelin could make sure she knows how to fight." I say, eyeing the new mare critically. And maybe, just maybe, I think, one of them will take the time to train me, too.
the jungle princess