Horror Movie Stew

Royal meetings were one of Diana’s least favorite responsibilities, especially if Goolia wasn’t causing any ruckus, such as today. Since there were no hilarious outbursts like she had been hoping for, she instead stared off into space and hardly paid any attention to what was being said. When was the food going to be served so they could eat and get out of here?

Her question was answered when Iola announced that she had cooked this time. If Diana had been paying more attention, she might have noticed the nervous expression Nero wore, or the suspicious and guarded expression of Ashe who was analyzing Nero. Instead, she leaned back and waited for her turn to be served…

“Is this a joke?” Diana asked incredulously when she was finally served. The dish in front of her looked like it came straight from a horror movie. She could see it now: a creepy old farmer family with a fridge full of rotten food that they threw into a pot and created something exactly like this.

“Not at all!” Iola beamed at her. “I worked hard because I wanted to thank you all. I hope you like it!”

Diana noticed Ashe wisely declining her portion by making up an excuse, but she was too curious to do the same. Taking her spoon, Diana lifted a solid helping of the oozing liquid into her mouth… and it took all of her willpower to swallow it rather than spit it out. The only reason she refrained is because she knew Ashe would kill her if any got onto her or her outfit, and she would most definitely be sleeping on the couch if so.

“Are you trying to kill us? I’ve had dumpster food better than that!” Diana didn’t have time to regret her blunt words, as Nero suddenly appeared at her side in a blur of speed.

“That’s a funny joke Diana, a real knee slapper, ha ha…” He took her bowl and tipped it back, downing the contents in record time.

Diana’s disgusted expression must have prompted Ashe to elbow her. Her wife gave her a stern glare, warning her to behave. Diana didn’t agree about lying to Iola about how awful her cooking was, but if Nero was willing to endure that to spare her feelings, she would go along with it just this once. “Uh, yeah… that was just a joke…”

Iola smiled once more. “I’m glad you enjoy it, please have as much as you like!”

“I apologize, but Diana and I must be leaving now. I have an appointment that I simply must be on time for.” Ashe declared as she took a stand.

Diana could, and would, kiss her for that.