The Art of War

The tawny princess was an early riser like her father. Especially after her first birthday and recent proclamations to her father about her future aspirations. There would be no time to waste if she wanted to be truly valiant one day. Even if she did not become a Knight, she would still need to be ready as ever! Plus, when she didn't drink an evening cup of chamomile with Meadow, it was difficult for her to sleep. Often she would slip into Kea's room or Meadow's when she was feeling particularly restless and unable to sleep. Curling up next to someone somehow always seemed to settle the persistent energy that rattled around inside of her.

Such was the issue many hours before dawn had begun. Instead of finding her way into Meadow's room or even her parent's quarters, she chose to go on a patrol. Down the steep carved steps to the nearby beach, enjoying the salty air as the stars guided her way. Shimmering Shore was one of her favorite places to be and though she knew it was clear from the view of her bedroom, she couldn't help but want to feel the sand between her toes. As she was making her way back up the stone steps toward the castle and about to turn to head out to the plains to see if any predators were lingering, she heard a familiar call.

Instantly, there was excitement and eagerness on her face. The energy that always seemed to consume her heightened and nearly made her paws tingle as she raced through the dew-covered grasses toward the outdoor training arenas. As of late, they had become her close friends as she added more training sessions with Mercury and her siblings. But a lesson with her father?! That was something she looked forward to more than anything! Her tail lifted high and made wide sweeping motions as she smiled brightly at the sight of him.

"Daddy! You're up early!" She greeted cheerfully as she rushed over to press her cheek to his. Now that she was closing in on two years, she was almost comparable in height to him. As she stepped back, her smile lessened into a more curious look with one brow raised. "What do you have planned?" Bramble asked quizzically as she tried to hide her excitement with gentle transitions of weight between her paws.

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