Each Sunday, Weekend Writing Warriors offers a selection of eight-sentence excerpts from writers in multiple genres and forms. Check out the full roster here.
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“You won’t be expected to make a clan-marriage till you’re well into your profession,” her mother went on, “but there are prospects you ought to watch.” She fluttered hands over her tablet, and Martisset’s own sprang to life. “Personal inclination is one thing, and character. Watch, watch and wait. All sorts of things look good in theory. See what they’re made of, see how they choose when it’s matters of small moment.”
Martisset glanced down at the list that had appeared on the screen.
All girls, the ones she recognized; how her mother or father had discerned her own inclinations, she didn’t know, nor had they discussed it.
***
Martisset gets the Talk from her mother on the eve of her departure for the Academy. From work in progress, Ship’s Heart (NaNo 2015).
E. P. Beaumont 
Her mother’s personality comes through loud and clear in that little paragraph, kudos on that! And very intriguing that her parents seem to know her preference without any obvious way for that to happen.
~Marcia
I like that her parents are in tune with what she herself really wants. And the advice about watching the character of any prospective partners is good. Great snippet!
Interesting snippet. I am curious what a clan-marriage is but I agree with the others in the fact that you have painted a clear picture of her mother. I will be eager for Martisset’ s response to this.
Interesting advice, but I suspect she won’t take it. Makes for more conflict in the story if she doesn’t.
Her mom’s got some good points. If you’re going to marry for cultural reasons, picking someone who suits as best as possible is a great idea.
Fascinating! I’m wondering how these prospects are considered. Family/political position? I also can’t help but wonder whether there’s some scientific mumbo jumbo going on behind the scenes, which very well could have contributed to her parents’ discovery of “her inclinations.” Very interesting stuff! Good snippet!
Wow, that sounds a little harsh. Like she’s stating these rules so they’re meant to be broken… 😉 Great snippet!