Whyt made dinner, cleaned the house and sat with her parents for the meal. “Mother, Father, I would like to ask your permission to attend the Nathrin flight academy.” Her mother tensed. “I do not think that it is wise, Whyt.” Her father smiled brightly. “I have come up with an alternative, little feather.” Whyt’s heart sank. “Yes, Father?” “I have found a suitable mate for you. You meet him the day after tomorrow.” Whyt froze. “A mate? I thought I would have a choice in who I wed.” “There is no time. You are not getting younger.” Tevan smoothed his ivory hair back. “That is precisely my point. I will be too old to join the Planetary Defense Corp soon.” Her mother sniffed. “We are not authorizing you to go. You are going to settle down and be a good wife.”
