Lion Head Mesa you bring out the worst in me

"yes. dandelion root to perk you, wild potato to settle your stomach, and a bit of poppy, to steady your head and keep you — grounded without the overuse of berries, royal one." she watched him lap half-heartedly at the moss and then set upon the herbs all at once. tavina would have liked charles to eat one at a time, but no matter.

she sat placidly as he ate, but her eyes were nothing less than sharp. "you exist in splendor at the whim of pharaoh. a word and he will demote you or send you out of akashingo. keep him happy, lord charles."

she thought of pretty, saddened lilitu. it was unfair what she would next say but it was for charles' good. the girl had returned to her family and it was obvious there was little chance she would return to lay again with the prince.

"you must find some way to gently blame her for this." her voice was matter-of-fact. "he may replace her. he will not tolerate more shame from you, however, so if you wish to go the route of divorce, be prepared to perform until a pregnancy is assured."

she sighed and thumped her tail. "i know it is all so much. that is why you have me, prince, so curb your tongue next time i bring you medicine and good advice." but her tone was not angry, and neither her gaze as she said it.