Hard Lessons

It was a royal meeting like any other, or so Ashe thought, right up until Iola made an announcement.

“I usually have our chef make the food for these meetings, but I decided to make something for you all today just to show my thanks for all the great work you’ve been doing while managing your regions.” Iola seemed excited.

Ashe glanced around the room at the faces and expressions of the other royals. Diana seemed relaxed and indifferent, Goolia seemed curious and eager, but Nero… he seemed nervous? That was odd. Why wouldn’t Iola’s husband be happy about this announcement of hers? This set off alarm bells in Ashe’s mind as she turned her attention to one of Iola’s employees who began serving their meal.

It became obvious very quickly why Nero was nervous. The bowl of slop that was placed in front of Ashe was, without a doubt, the single worst looking thing she had ever seen. Could it even be considered food?

“This is my famous stew,” Iola explained. “Everyone in the castle loves it, especially Nero! He always ends up eating any leftovers we have.” She giggled. “I’m sure he’ll finish up anything that’s left in the pot tonight as well.”

Ashe suddenly pitied Nero. If she squinted, she could see the sweat dripping down his neck even from where she sat.

Sorry Nero, this isn’t personal. Ashe thought before she spoke. “I apologize, but I already ate before coming here. You’re free to scoop my portion back into the pot.”

Nero’s panicked and betrayed eyes met hers, but she met his gaze cooly. This was his wife, and it was his problem to deal with. If he didn’t want to eat this much stew, he should have convinced Iola to not make it in the first place. At least, that’s what she would have done. Perhaps she should give him lessons on convincing people, just as soon as he was done throwing his guts up.