“Slow down, Half! You’re going to make yourself sick eating so fast!”
Half was her brother’s nickname for her. Her given name was Nektara but she was quite small for an oursa. Her brother used to tease that she was half the bear she should be. When she was younger, the nickname would drive her mad. “I’m twice the bear you are even at half the size!” she’d once retorted. Now a little older, she was at ease with her small stature, and she recognized the affection with which her brother used the quip.
“I don’t have time to slow down! I have to be at the rookery by dusk! Crismus himself asked for me! Can you imagine? Me!”
She’d sent off her application with a member of the Mouse Wing who’d passed through over two months ago. The mouse promised he’d deliver it within the week. When several weeks passed without hearing word, she’d given up hope. Then two days ago, she received the notice. Crismus, the Great Owl himself, wanted to speak with her!
“The old owl has done well enough without you so far. I’m sure he can do without you for the time it takes you to eat your meal without choking!”
“Well, he won’t have to now, I’m done!” She pushed herself and her chair away from the table. In a flash, she was gone upstairs to finish packing!
Her brother shook his head and grinned as he watched her go.