Dessert

TOVA

If I had thought my torment was over because the acting High Queen Ulka had said it was to be over, I was mistaken.  I underestimated the sheer pettiness of women, and the pleasure men take in watching us fight.

I had made it through the soup course without mishap, speaking to no one and not minding at all.  I usually sit in the corner, so I don’t have the opportunity to observe and watch people and I was enjoying it.  I tried hard to do it astutely so that no one would notice.  That is why I wasn’t aware that I was being spoken to until I was.

I realized Queen Marta was speaking to me.  “I’m sorry?” I said, smiling and leaning forward a little so I could see her better.

She smiled sweetly at me and repeated.  “Do you enjoy your studies?”

I smiled back at her.  She seemed like she was genuinely interested.  “Yes, your highness, I do.  Of course, I enjoy some more than others, but they are all i