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What brings you to that declaration then, brother?

Vali beat me in one training session- one! Now he thinks he's the better warrior. [Sulking didn't really suit him so shouting seemed the better option.]

Oh? So between the two of you, you usually win?

Well, we usually tie.

Ah, well. Then you need to win in the next session and you'll be equal again.

So long as this isn't the start of a loosing streak.

Maybe he will drop his guard, thinking that he has the upper hand? That could work to my advantage.

Ah, now you're thinking. But you mustn't prepare only for the possibility that Vali will be complacent.

Hmm, you're right. Vali is too clever for that.

Exactly. But so are you.

Maybe we are still evenly matched? We are twins after all. It is better that I don't worry about sparring.

If that is your wish, then it's best that Vali doesn't continue to lord his prowess over you. He may not share your sentiment.

And who would say such a thing?

Vali. [He crosses his arms, pouting. At least all the yelling made him feel better.]

Ah, I see.

Uncle Thor was training us. Our fights usually end in a tie, this one didn't. [It was just a case of sibling rivalry but he couldn't admit to having had a tantrum over something so trivial.]

Now that Uncle's making a fuss over him, I think it's gone to Vali's head.

[How very like Thor.]

Perhaps I shall speak to him.

No- he will know that I told you. I'll sort it out with him.

He is older, and he dedicates as much of his time to it as you do to your other learning. There is no shame in his being proud, however, I will not have any son of mine behaving in such a manner - and to his brother, no less. It is not our way.

It is not like him to gloat but I guess I would have done the same had I won. [Especially with all the attention Thor had been pouring out on Vali. Their uncle meant well but neglected to think about how one brother's victory would make the other feel.]

Don't worry I won't give Vali's ego a chance to get out of hand.

Then perhaps I should speak to Thor; a teacher has no business playing favorites.

I don't think he wanted to make me feel left out, maybe he just wasn't thinking? [Narfi leans in to whisper.] Don't tell anyone I said this but I think Uncle Thor may not be very bright.

[She actually has to stop for a moment before what he said registers. And then she's laughing, bright and genuine, because how else could she possibly react?]

My son, you cannot say such things, and certainly not about your uncle. However true they may be.

[Narfi starts laughing too, relieved that he is not in trouble.] I won't say it again but I couldn't help thinking it.

Good, because bright or not he is still your uncle - still family - and we do not say such things about family.