I sat at the head of the long, polished table, fingers lightly tapping against the surface as I tried to suppress a sigh. The grand meeting room was filled with a dozen women, none of whom were from the council, but apparently had plenty to say.
I cast a glance down at the parchment in front of me supposed to be taking notes, but so far, nothing of real substance had emerged from this meeting. I
nstead, I was being treated to a detailed recounting of Lady Maribel's latest attempts to breed a more aesthetically pleasing rose.
"The key," she said, leaning forward conspiratorially, "is in the *soil*, Your Majesty. You wouldn't believe the difference a little enchanted compost can make. I've even started mixing in a bit of unicorn hair."
"Oh, fascinating!" cooed Lady Beatrice from across the table. "Do you think it would work for orchids too?"
