In Other Lands

by Sarah Rees Brennan

“Hail, kinswoman, Swift-Arrows-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle!” called Serene. “Hail, kinswoman, Serene-Heart-in-the-Chaos-of-Battle,” Swift returned, and then a smile split her grave sweet face. “Out in the woods with a couple of boys?” she asked. “Why, you little rogue!” “Ma’am, it is not at all what you assume,” said Serene. “They’re decent gentlemen, I assure you. Human ways are different, and besides, this is an emergency.” “That’s what all the young girls say when it comes to dalliances in the woods with trollops,” said one of the other elves, and Elliot gave an indignant squawk. “Two of them, as well,” said Swift, who had Serene’s fine bones and translucently pale skin, though her braided hair was chestnut, much lighter than Serene’s, and her expression was mischievous. “Certainly your mother’s daughter. Chip off the old wood block.”

Amusing!