Chapter 8 Acclimation and Education

“Also, in case there is any confusion, Jeanette is my Companion, we haven’t become Lovers as of yet, at least in the Physical sense, but she has expressed a desire to be my Concubine, and I have already accepted this; I hope that doesn’t upset you, Alian.” She shook her head, with a smile on her face. “As long as I’m your first wife, and can bear children for you. I’ll be ecstatic, Besides, I like how Jeanette looks too; I hope she can accept me too.” “Yes, Milady, it would be an Honor, I’d gladly bear a child for you, as well as Jane!” “Huh, I wonder if that’s possible? A blending of two Tigers in a third woman, blending three bloodlines at the same time. We’re all cat types, so nothing bad should happen; either it would work, or it wouldn’t, I think.” Absolute shock. “What?” Smiling impishly, Alian responded, “What do you say to that idea, Jeanette? Would you agree to attempt to bear a blended child of the two of us? The idea has never even been suggested to my knowledge, it might indeed be worth attempting, practically allowing for another new bloodline that way.” Jeanette had a stupid grin on her face. “That sounds wonderful, I can’t wait to be married to both of you, so we can try that, no need to rush on your part, your Highness, if you want some more time just loving us before a child is conceived.” Alian shook her head, “No way, I’m not waiting, as soon as the announcement is official, and we’re on our Honeymoon, we two start trying. Besides, raising our children together just makes sense; we’ll be able to share feeding duties that way.”

“That brings up another question; if Magic allows Pregnancy, could it also allow the non-mother to produce milk?” More shocked expressions. “My dear soon to be daughter in law, you are full of original ideas. I’ll contact my best Mages and have them begin thinking on the matter. Oftentimes, the woman who can’t conceive truly feels left out for that very issue; having a spell to do that would save so much suffering for those women.” I then remembered the Crossbow. “We’ve gotten a little distracted; you asked about the weapon, it’s called a Crossbow, and this one is a covert variant for self-defense mostly. The full-sized version is great for Guards, because it takes almost no training to use, and provides a ranged offense if needed. It’s rather short ranged in comparison to a Bow, but it’s more powerful, and can punch through most armor. There is a larger version than that, which is called a Ballista, and is an anti-siege weapon, which gets mounted on the walls. Those can usually damage or destroy any siege towers an enemy might bring, and they have a decent range. Takes a team to crank back the rope, load the massive bolts, aim, and fire, but it is a real game changer at times.” I demonstrated how the cocking lever worked to pull the string back, and the safety that prevents accidental firing, then the speed of the string snapping taught when the trigger is tapped. “So far, only one Smith knows anything about this Weapon, and he knows it’s useless to anyone but the Guards, because a true hunter, or adventurer will use a Bow instead.” The King nodded in pleasure at the display. “I think these Covert versions are a good notion for those Nobles who would rather not train in warfare, so they at least have some self-defense, and yet can be hidden away from sight when it’s not needed,” Adel spoke then. “It was rather effective in the hands of the Carriage lookout, too. It accounted for two of the Toads, and stunned a third, before Jane killed the rest.” That startled the King. “Truly a warrior’s spirit to kill three Toads single-handed. Did anything else happen on your trip?”

I nodded my head. “Yes, and it’s rather disturbing. While I was in the Inn, in the same Village the Princess’s Carriage was at, waiting for replacements for the two Guards they had lost, someone in a peculiar, yet distinctive dark hooded cloak attempted to kill me, and probably Jeanette due to proximity. That could have been a one-off, but about six hours from the Capitol, a whole group of Bandits dressed identically tried, and failed miserably to attack us. I blinded them with light magic, and the Men had them trussed up. They would have just killed them if I hadn’t stopped them quickly enough. They are now in the care of the Gate Guards, being interrogated. I asked that they not be killed, so they can be made to testify in Court if it’s needed. With the potential of having their sentence commuted to slavery for cooperation, pending Your Majesty’s decision at the time. I feel there’s a bigger conspiracy here, and the first person thought I was Adel, and didn’t even know I wasn’t connected to the Nobility at all. That’s a chance I won’t take, so I hope I didn’t overstep here.”

The King looked grim. “You promised nothing, only suggested that Cooperation might change their punishment, and you were right to keep them alive for interrogation, and the Court testimony is wise as well, should it be required. All is well on that front. Truly, the thought of a Conspiracy is disturbing, but we can’t ignore this just because we don’t like the notion. I completely agree, it’s too coincidental to be ignored. Did the Guards say what they intended?” I nodded again. “Yes, they said they were getting some top-tier mage breakers, to ensure they can’t resist the questions, and won’t die either. I just hope they don’t have hidden poison pills or something. Don’t want them committing suicide before they are forced to talk, I hadn’t even considered that till just now.” The King called for the Guards. “Send a runner to the Gate, tell them to check the Prisoners to be interrogated for any hidden poisons, or other means of committing suicide. We don’t want to lose out on any information they may have.” The Guard saluted and left at a double-time march. We all agreed to retire for the remainder of the night, at which point Alian stated that under the circumstances, we should all sleep in her rooms. I looked in some Panic at the King and Queen who correctly interpreting my expression, stated that it’s perfectly fine, since we’ve all agreed to the wedding, and to who will make the heirs, as long as the conception is left till after the Marriage itself, there would be no issues with anything else.

In a Daze with a goofy grin on my face, I left with my now two women. There wasn’t too much fuss, we all undressed, down to nothing, and climbed into bed together, exchanging nervous kisses all around, and cuddling to begin building some skinship. We all dozed off fairly quickly, having had quite the long day.

When we woke in the Morning, after I had relieved myself, being the last to do so, I found myself attacked by a Passionate Princess. “I couldn’t wait anymore! You drove me practically crazy last night, being so respectful, even though we were both Naked. Please take me, if you need more time before you can accept my attentions in return, I can wait, just please don’t hold back from me, either of you!” Jeanette was beaming and grinning like a fool. “Me too, please. I can receive both of you, and I’ll gladly tend to the Princess anytime. Like Alian, I can wait for you to be ready. I truly love you, already.” Grinning like a fool, I did exactly as requested, we were all panting and sweaty when we heard giggling from the bathing room. The maids were happily readying the bath and clothing. We entered the room, and the Maids bowed while overjoyed. “We are delighted at the news of your upcoming marriage, Princess Alian.”

I found it awkward when the Maids helped to wash us all. “I’m accustomed to bathing myself. This is kind of weird for me. If it’s possible, unless there’s some special occasion, like today’s first Breakfast ever, I’d like to tend to myself.” Though Alian was shocked that I had bathed in the past, the Maids were understanding. “Have you truly bathed before? Not just wiped off with a Cloth or something?” Jeanette asked the question Alian wanted the answer to. “Yes, back home everyone has a Bath in their homes, or at least a Shower. We have running water provided by the City Government, and we pay a Bill every other Month, it’s combined with the Sewer and Garbage Bills. With the electric water heater in the plumbing lines, the water came in already at the perfect temperature for bathing. We also have ready access to Soaps and Shampoos to get ourselves fully clean; I know a few recipes for some scented soaps, my Grandmother insisted I learn.” The Maids and Alian stiffened in surprise. “Recipes for Soaps? Please teach us! We will make it immediately!” I looked at the Maids who were beyond excited at the thought of scented soaps. “Sure, I’ll even teach you how to make liquid hand soaps for Kitchen Staff, and to have in any of the what do you call them in here, where you relieve yourself?”

“Privy chambers, that’s what they’re called, what do you call them?” “Depends, at home, it’s typically called a Bathroom, even if there isn’t a Bath in it; in another country, they call it a Water Closet, but in public, we call it simply a Restroom. Public ones are Segregated, one for Men, one for Women. They’re not like yours; they aren’t just a hole leading to a collection area below, they have plumbing attached, and you flush the waste away with water. The toilet is a Porcelain piece with a tank to hole water attached to a bowl that’s half full of water, when you flush, the water from the tank forces everything out, and the new clean water keeps smells from coming back up, and the tank refills itself till the float switch reaches the top. I know how to make everything, except the rubber for the flapper that holds the water in the tank, but for a simple version, I could just make the bowl itself, and we simply dump water in instead.” Wonder and amazement were plastered like growths on everyone’s faces. “I think, my Love, that you have MUCH to teach us! Do discuss everything with father, how does the running water work, is it magic?” I shook my head. “No, you have to build a water tower. It’s a massive tank on top of a tower higher than any building that will be served. It has a small pipe connected to a pump powered either by electricity, or in old times a windmill, then there’s a gigantic pipe coming down from the center of the tower, that connects to the Plumbing network under ground, with each split leading to smaller pipes, until the ones in houses are about an inch around, this allows for water to flow through all the pipes at a decent pressure, and speed.”

We got out of the bath, and I was presented with a Dress. “Um, no, I can’t do Dresses. If you intend to pick clothes for me, imagine you’re dressing a Man, then alter it in the cut to fit me. I’m sorry for the trouble, but I just can’t do Dresses.” A Maid bowed to me and took the offending garment away. Soon she returned with something a lot more acceptable for me. “I’ll adjust some more options, but this will have to do for now.” I smiled, “Thank you very much, this is just about perfect! The Style is on point, once it gets fitted to me, it will be perfect. No frills, mind, less is more, trust me. The only embellishments I’ll accept are badges, or pins if I ever earn any, that is.” Alian quirked her head. “Is that something your Rulers did?” I nodded “Yes, there was the Purple Heart, for getting injured in the line of duty, and continuing to serve, rather than breaking, the first order of merit, for service above and beyond the call of duty, the Marksmanship award for exceeding the standards for aim, which since almost all our weapons were ranged, that was important, there’s tons of different awards that can be earned in any of the the armed forces.” “Armed Forces, not just the Army?” “Police is the civil authority, Army deals with ground forces, Navy for shipboard service, Marines serve aboard the ship, but are the ones who make a foothold on an enemy land, the coast guard is similar to the Navy, but they mainly deal with water rescues, but also piracy, and smuggling. Then there’s the Air Force, they dealt with flying machines exclusively, while the Navy had fighter jets, and aircraft carriers, a few helicopters, but mainly they were about boats and submarines.”

“You had Flying Crafts?! Also, what’s a Submarine?” “Submarines are a special type of Boat that has canisters of Compressed air, and is capable of going under the water, and traveling that way for months without surfacing. With weapons that could be launched under the water to damage enemy ships.” “Your world sounds so wondrous!” “Everyone there thinks this world, or the ones they imagine, are Wondrous. Between having nobody back home, all my Family has passed away, including aunts and uncles, and they never had children, so I have no cousins either, and I never found anyone I could call a Lover, well, I simply couldn’t be happier to be here.”

My two Lovers squealed in happiness and squeezed me tight in a hug from each side. “I think it might be a good idea to set me up with writing materials, so I can describe all the public works projects I can explain, and basic descriptions of the various weapons, and quality of life items I know how to make. Probably take me quite a while, and your Father should decide which aspect I should focus on.” Alian nodded, “That’s an excellent notion.” Now fully dressed, we left for the Breakfast table and my first meeting with the Second Princess of the realm.

We entered a dining hall that was much too vast, and about a quarter full with various members of the King’s Court. All eyes focused on me, with shock and amazement. Alian pulled us along behind her as we approached her normal seat, which now had two additional seats beside it. Less adorned than her own, but still far more opulent than I feel comfortable with. As we reached our seats, before we sat down, the King stood, and addressed the court. “My people, wondrous news. Through methods beyond understanding, a new Tiger has come to our Nation, having only been in our Nation for three days, she has already reached Gold Tier with the Adventurer’s Guild, as confirmed by our own Guild Tablet. In addition, she has knowledge of Materials and Weaponry beyond our current capabilities, and has already created two unknown weapons, as well as the method of making a version of Steel that does not rust. Though she was raised as a Commoner in her Land, she is educated far more than any in our Realm, and has three names to our two. This is a cultural difference only, and her second name is intended to protect against confusion with extended family only and is not needed in casual conversation. It is, however, required for signing any Legal Documents, and as such, I believe it may be a tradition we adapt ourselves to reduce forgeries in the future, though that is a matter for future discussion. She will be joining my own family, as the First Princess Alian has agreed to marry this Woman; at long last, she’s chosen a Wife, who comes with a Concubine of her own, who is Iron Ranked in her own right. This will greatly improve my Daughter’s Safety, and an Heir will be conceived as soon as possible after the Wedding, which we will not delay. I intend to hold the Ceremony within the Month, giving sufficient time for the Princes to be informed, but we will not recall them. They may meet their new Sister in Law when they come home normally. She will not introduce herself, and her Concubine.”

I took a deep breath. “My lords, and Ladies, members of the court at large, I bid you greetings from the United States of America, which is not a Monarchy or Matriarchy but a Democratic Republic. My name in full is Jane Rae Richards. In my time here, I have maintained the position that I am NOT of the Noble line of this Nation, and that position will not change at all until this Marriage is officially concluded. I am not joining for my own sake, but for the Nation; I want nobody to think they could use me as a tool to rebel, and offer me as legitimacy, being that I happen to be a Tiger myself, were it not for this worry, I would rather serve instead of joining. Please treat me as a respected commoner or merchant, rather than a Noble. I intend to support my Princess Wife, not take her place. It’s her place to rule in the unfortunate death of her Father, and anyone ahead of her, which, I, personally, hope will never happen. As to my Concubine, her name is Jeanette, and she is also equally devoted to supporting the First Princess. For those of you who believe me to be too young to be believed, my actual age is forty-two years; I assure you all, I can take direct criticism without taking offense. I look forward to aiding this great Nation, and I hope to get to know all of you to some degree, if time permits. Thank you all for taking the time to listen to my pathetic fumbling attempts at public speaking, which I hope for all our sakes is kept to an absolute minimum.”

To my utter surprise, I saw a sea of genuinely happy and welcoming faces, not one person was upset, or irritated that I existed. A round of applause from all those present reached my ears. “Please be seated, and let us eat. There will be time for individual introductions, as Jane will not be leaving the Capitol until after the Ceremony.” We took our seats and began our Meal. I was slightly less disappointed in the food, and intended to see about improving the food quality. The Second Princess couldn’t wait to pipe up, looking slightly older than Adel, she was nevertheless beautiful in her own right. “My Dear Future Sister, please permit me to introduce myself; I am the Second Princess, Cassandra Marion. I look forward to hearing all about how your Democratic Republic works, and any differences in lifestyles of the people, not the Nobles.” I chuckled a little and smiled. “There are no Nobles, only elected officials. Typically from wealthy families, the people vote them into office, usually by telling the best lies. Promising improvements on Taxes, or Education, lowering the unemployment rate, increasing the minimum wage, and better healthcare, whatever they think will set the hook. Yet even knowing they’re telling lies, we still vote them in. It’s by no means a better system. Sounds great on paper, but when push comes to shove, all systems fail in the end. The first King earned their title, was given it by the People, but with every generation, the children get more spoiled, and the greed takes a firmer hold, losing the old Nobility, and becoming Nobles in name only.” Cassandra blinked. “Truly, you believe that will happen?” I nodded. “It will take centuries, but Parents tend to spoil their children, especially if they feel guilty about spending so much time working, as a Nation’s Ruler has to do almost all the time. I’m sure that as much as you love your Father and Mother, neither can spend nearly enough time with you for your personal preference. Especially when you were little. So they’d get you a Pony, or a new Dress, a Fancy Toy, that super rare Book, whatever they think will make you smile, because they don’t know how to interact with you, they never had the chance to learn.”

The King and Queen looked amazed at me. “That is exactly what we did! Was that truly the wrong thing?” I smiled. “So far, I don’t think it did much harm. It’s when Generations repeat the cycle. It’s like a mild poison; it doesn’t kill right away, but your child is weaker than you were, and their children become weaker still. Presents should only be for Birthdays, special Holidays, or if you come home from a long trip, a small souvenir to show you wished you could have taken them with you. Anything else must be earned as a reward for excellent work in studies, being better at archery or swordsmanship than a person their age is expected to be. Every child needs responsibilities too, chores, splitting wood, making their bed, and cleaning their clothes. Sewing clothes, not needle-point. Cooking meals on Occasion, everybody should know how to cook, and where food comes from. Wealthy people tend to believe that farming is easy, because it takes no education. Farmers have years of education in their trade, there’s so much more information to teach a Farmer than even the King himself. It’s also a labor-intensive job, more difficult than even being a Knight if less dangerous. It’s truly back-breaking labor, and that’s before transporting the harvest to market. If you don’t understand the value of the common people, you have no right to rule them. The most important thing for any child is to be told NO often. That one little word is Vital to a healthy child’s growth.”

Though most Nobles were shocked at my words, the King and Queen both nodded in understanding and complete agreement. “Your words are very wise. I apologize to you, my beloved daughters, I truly wish I could have given you all the time you deserved.” The shock faded as the Nobles realized I was talking about a future disaster that needed to be avoided, and how to do so. “I presume you will be a doting parent when your children are born. Will you help with your new Siblings' children as well?” The Queen’s question seemed almost laughable. “Naturally, Queen Mother, I will cherish all my nieces and nephews, and my new Siblings as well. Family is precious to me, and I lost all mine from before. Outliving your blood is not a pleasant experience. You will find nobody as Loyal as me as a direct result of simply being Family.”

Once Breakfast was finished, I asked to be excused to the Kitchens for a moment. Confused, the Queen, Alian, as well as Jeanette decided to follow me to see what I was about. I entered the Kitchen to the surprise of the entire Kitchen Staff. I pointed at several ingredients and asked for a portion, then I went just outside into the Kale Yard, where I found several Herbs growing wild, and to my absolute joy, a Potato Plant. I harvested everything I wanted, returned inside, and quickly prepared a dish. The Staff was watching in wrapped attention, and the surprise of the herbs was only paled by that of the Potato. I cooked those separately with some of the herbs. I took a test bite once the Potato was done, and focused on the taste. Once I was satisfied that it was the same as I remembered from home, I added Onions, and some of the Mushrooms they had to that. Once everything was done, I turned to my Audience. “Ok, everyone, come and give it a taste.” All the staff rushed, only to freeze, as they remembered that the Queen and Princess were present. “Please, your Ladyships, you should taste first if you intend to do so.” The head of the Kitchen stated with a determined grace. The Queen stepped up and took a mouthful of each, eyes widening in pleasure with each dish; Alian also sampled each dish, as did Jeanette. “That is Marvelous, if I wasn’t already full from Breakfast, I doubt I could have refrained from eating the full amount. You must all try this, and perhaps we can learn some of Jane’s cooking secrets for the Court, I certainly hope it’s possible.” With permission given, the Staff swarmed on the dishes and finished both off. “Well, opinions, and do you think you can copy those dishes on your own?”

“It’s Marvelous, Mistress Jane, I heard your introduction speech, so I know not to call you by Noble titles until after the Wedding. In the interim, perhaps you wouldn’t mind teaching me a menu for the Wedding?! PLEASE teach me!” I smiled. “I’ll be glad to give you as many secrets as I can remember. I’m no Chef, so I’m sure you can take whatever I give you and improve upon it. I wish I could get a Dehydrator setup, so we could preserve some of those herbs for the winter.” She looked confused. “What’s a Dehydrator?” I explained the concept and how removing the moisture keeps it from rotting, and intensifies the flavor for up to half a year. She seemed excited, especially when I told her it could make Jerky, which is a food that didn’t exist. The Head of the Kitchen said that what she tried had given her ideas of improvements for all her dishes, and she was certain that lunch and dinner both would be greatly improved. As I was walking to leave the Kitchen, something caught my eye, and I whirled back to the Kale Yard. I ran outside to a bush growing like a weed at the very limit of the patch, right next to a wall. “Jalapenos!” I grabbed one decent-sized pepper, and another Potato, and enough herbs, popped back into the Kitchen, and quickly made a new Potato dish, using the Jalapeno as well. “Try this one!” Everyone, Royals first, followed by Jeanette, sampled the new dish, and marveled at the Spicy Flavor that now filled their mouths. “Marvelous! To think something so tasty was growing like a Weed in our Kale Yard.” The Queen and Head of the Kitchen seemed to agree. “If we make some cooking oil from plants, we can pulp the Jalapenos and mix them with the Oil, and some Vinegar, then it can be used as a sauce. Adding it to dishes that need a little kick. Just make sure to let one or two peppers ripen fully, so you can use their seeds for next year.”

Now we did leave the Kitchen, and the excited Kitchen Staff started brainstorming improvements for their future dishes. “That’s going to improve things so much, I truly thank you for teaching our Kitchen Staff. Your Nation must have had many different foods, I look forward to sampling more. The Wedding Feast will be Amazing, and I have no clue what it’s even going to be.” Queen Vanessa stated enthusiastically. I grinned impishly. “That’s the first thing I’ve eaten that wasn’t bland. Even if it was only a bite of each thing I made. This is purely for self-interest, despite how good it’s going to be for everyone else. Also, my Bride deserves good food at her Wedding, not to mention all the time.” I looked fondly at both my Lovers. I’d like to go to the Guild Branch for the Escort Reward, I still owe Jeanette, and I might want to buy something in town too.” Vanessa nodded. “I’ll arrange an escort, I know you’re not a Noble, and you can take care of yourselves, but you’re going to have to get used to being escorted around, and besides, you don’t know the city. I also want some assurance that you will return home tonight.” She chuckled with a genuine affection, and understanding how uncomfortable I was with all the Pomp and Circumstance. “Can you at least choose an escort that isn’t used to being formal yet?” She nodded. “That I can manage, most nobles dislike them, and usually there’s only one in any detail, as long as the Captain of your detail is more proper, to maintain discipline when needed, that solves more problems than it causes.”

With a snap of her fingers, she summoned a runner and gave her instructions for my detail. “Mother, may I attend Jane on her tasks?” I subtly shook my head and winked at the Queen. “I think not, Alian, with the attempt on Jane’s life, and the seemingly connected bandit attack, having both of you out of the Palace at the same time, is just asking for trouble. We must wait for the results of the Interrogation.” Alian looked sad, but understanding. “Please don’t take all day, being separated feels like it will be horrid. Is it strange I’m already that attached to you?” “Not too odd, though the intensity is higher than I would have expected back home. However, I think maybe it’s because my Scent might be stronger, and affecting you. Making both of you more, I don’t know, Aware of your feelings, and less willing to delay anything.”

The Guard Detail selected for me assembled, and all of them, especially the Captain, were surprised at the Mix. “Hello, Captain of my personal guard Detail, I am sorry in advance for all the trouble that I’m undoubtedly going to cause you. However, all of you were chosen, because I was NOT raised as a Noble. I’m sure Rumors have reached you to some extent, but rumors are never accurate. So all of you keep being yourselves for the most part, you indeed have a Job to do, and I am your Primary; never say my name aloud, someone might be listening, and target me specifically; you call me your Primary, and Jeanette here, as my Concubine is your Secondary. What those titles mean is that I am the one the Crown charged you to protect, while you will protect Jeanette, so long as doing so doesn’t put me at risk. As much as I’d like to say she’s more Important, this is an official duty station, so I’m explaining how it works. Captain, don’t worry about Formalities for the most part, only deal with that when other Nobles, or some official, or a Merchant that needs the decorum that I loathe to be happy. Worry about their duties, not their manners otherwise.” The Captain visibly relaxed, understanding that the Hell he perceived didn’t exist. “Certainly, Milady, I fully endorse the Titles of Primary and Secondary as well. Your security is paramount, so avoiding using your name, now that you mention it, is a wise course of action. These lads and lasses are quite good at their Jobs, and if needed, they can straighten up their acts for short durations. This detail is perfect for them in my opinion.” I smiled. “The Queen selected them all at my request for a less formal detail. May I have your name, Captain? Even if I don’t get to use it, I want to know it anyway. God forbid something happens to you, but if it did, I want to know the name of the person who was lost on my account. Though part of me feels almost like this is a Jinx, or an Ill Wish of sorts, I know intellectually that superstitions don’t affect anything, but not knowing your name would affect me terribly if the worst happened.”

He bowed to me and answered. “You honor me, Milady, my Name is Freddrick. If you’ll forgive me, I feel that introductions to the rest can wait till later.” I smiled broader. “It is truly an Honor to make your acquaintance, and I agree. Our first stop is the Adventurer’s Guild, to collect a Quest Reward. If you hadn’t heard, I am Gold Rank, and Jeanette is Iron now. Your Protection Detail isn’t as troublesome as most in some ways, but I will tend to jump into the fray, rather than huddling in fear, or simply ignoring dangers entirely out of arrogance. These are my weapons, they’re a Knuckle Type, allowing me to punch at full power, without risking my fingers, yet my Claws can still be used. My Backup Weapon is ranged. It’s called a Crossbow, and is much easier to aim than a traditional Bow. We will visit the Palace Smiths later, and commission one of these for each of you, because you never know when a bit of range will be needed, and a traditional bow isn’t very practical in the city. I only have twenty bolts, but they’re strong enough to punch through most armor. I intend to visit several shops as well, but the reason is private.” We left the Palace as Alian waved forlornly.

This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.

It took nearly forty minutes to reach the Guild Hall, but when we entered, there was almost nobody there, and those that were, all were seated, and staring openly at me. I approached the Receptionist, and Jeanette and I handed our plates and the Quest Tile. His startled gaze found the proffered items after a while, then he had us place our hands on the Tablet to confirm that we had indeed completed the quest, and that our tier was what was presented. He handed us our equally split payment. I then transferred what I owed Jeanette to her stack and pocketed the rest. Jeanette also pocketed hers. I thanked the Receptionist and left the still stunned audience behind. We then headed to the Market Place, and after a short while, I found a Jewelry stand. I zeroed in on the stand. I found three elegant rings that were perfectly identical. “I’ll take these three rings, and I’d like to commission three additional rings with diamonds in them, which need to sort of twine with these three when they’re on the finger.” The clerk was eager to comply with the request. I instructed him to deliver the completed secondary rings to the Palace addressed to the Queen, and I wrote a note for the Queen’s Eyes only, explaining the purpose of the secondary rings, and their significance in my Culture. I sealed the letter with wax and my thumbprint. Signing my full name on the back.

We then continued to look at the marketplace stalls, but then I saw a young girl being yelled at by someone who was by no means related to her. She was being berated as a useless Chit, and not worth the coin he spent on her. My Rage Boiled, and I barely restrained myself from killing the Man outright. I tapped him on his shoulder, and he turned in Rage, only for his face to Pale at the sight of me and my Guard Detail. “You have two choices, First sell her to me for one Gold, Second, I kill your useless ass, and take her anyway. Which is it?” He took out the girl’s slave paperwork and handed it over, accepting the coin. “Good choice, no get out of my sight you pathetic piece of Scum, who isn’t worth the money I just spent!” He ran, full-out ran, never looking back. I turned to the girl, paperwork, and collar key in hand. “I’ll serve you as best I can, Mistress! What do you wish of me?” I went to her, and knelt, inserting the key into the lock, and removing the collar. “If you remove the Collar, I’ll be freed, that’s in the Contract!” I smiled, “Good, cause I didn’t buy a Slave, I paid a Ransom to get a Family Member away from a Bad Person.” The collar fell away, and I embraced the Girl with a fierce hug. “You’re mine now, you hear, nobody can ever hurt you again.”

Her happy tears burst forth, and the misery escaped through racking sobs into my shoulder as the Guard detail, smiling at the tender moment, kept watch around me. Once she calmed down a bit, I asked her a Question. “Do you know where a Florist is? I need to get a Bouquet before I can take you home, get you cleaned up, and dressed in better clothes. This isn’t how I expected to get my first Daughter, but I’m not complaining. At least you won’t have to worry about any of the Noble stuff.” She wiped her teary face and nodded, smiling. “Yes, it’s this way, the flowers are super pretty.” She led us down the street to an intersection, then around to the back of the left side of the stalls, where indeed a Florist was set up. The Florist couldn’t afford a better spot, and they were struggling for sure. “Make me a Bouquet worthy of the First Princess’s Private room. It’s a gift for her, and I have the Money.” Jeanette came up behind me. “Never got me a gift!” “Never had the chance, but you’re not left out, you saw I got three rings right?” She smiled and grabbed our new daughter in a side hug. She looked at Jeanette in confusion as to why she was hugging her too. “I’m one of her soon-to-be wives, so in a way, you’re my daughter too, and you have another mother to meet still. You’re overloaded with Family now!” The girl, who couldn’t be more than twelve if even that, hugged Jeanette back, hard, afraid to lose this newfound warmth.

The Florist did a marvelous job of assembling a Bouquet the likes of which I had never seen. I beamed at her and forced ten Gold onto her. “You’re excellent at your Job, and I want you to provide flowers for my Wedding. I don’t know the details about the Color Scheme yet, but I want centerpieces for each of the Banquet Tables. You will provide them at that time. I’m paying ahead so you can ensure you have enough of the right flowers for the Job. I’ll write a Note for the Queen’s Eyes, so you can go to the Palace to receive instructions. I’ll take no buts on this.” She bowed repeatedly and agreed to do as asked. I wrote the note and sealed it, signing my name on the back. Then took the Bouquet and left with my new Daughter. I noticed a food stall with meat skewers, and bought ten, and handed four to the girl. “Eat those, and I’ll hand you more once they’re gone. All ten of these are meant for you. You’re too skinny, that evil thing didn’t feed you enough. I’m half tempted to hunt him down and end him anyway.” She didn’t need a second urging. I had to slow her eating a few times, explaining that she wasn’t to throw up, and eating too fast could cause that. Chew properly, take your time, it’s not going anywhere besides her belly.

She had just finished off her ten skewers by the time we reached the Palace, to the astonished gazes of the Palace Guards. One of the Maids approached to see if I needed anything. “This is my adopted Daughter as of today. She was a slave and wasn’t treated well. She’s been fed, but she needs a Bath, any wounds tended, and decent clothes. Something pretty, but more like what your children might wear when you bring them to the Palace, assuming they live elsewhere, that is, I don’t know anything after all. I just realized, I still haven’t asked your name, sweetheart. Haven’t even told you mine yet either. My name is Jane, and your other Mother here is Jeanette. After you’re cleaned up, we’ll surprise your third Mother; Her name is Alian, but don’t go saying it to anyone else till after you meet her. So what’s your name?”

“Gabby is my name, Mother Jane Mam.” I smiled at her and gave her another Fierce Hug, joined by Jeanette on her other side. “It’s a lovely name, now you need to run along with the Maid here, she’ll take care of you for me, ok? I need to run interference for your third Mother, till you’re all cleaned up. Don’t take too long, ok, I’ll miss you, so hurry up, and do what you’re told, no matter how weird it seems to you.” “Yes, Mother Jane, I won’t take any longer than I have to.” She smiled, and nervously followed the Maid who couldn’t help but shed a little tear at the tender moment she had just witnessed. The detail broke away, now that I had returned to the Palace. Jeanette and I followed another Maid as she led us to the Audience Chamber, where Alian was attending Court alongside her Parents. When we entered, it was, apparently, the perfect timing between one matter and another. “Your Majesty, may I intrude for a Moment? It’s somewhat urgent.” Donican raised a Brow and noticed the Bouquet hidden behind my back from Alian’s sight, then nodded. “As long as it’s brief, I have no objections.” I approached and Knelt on one Knee, with both my Lovers in front of me. “First Princess Alian, Jeanette, will the two of you do me the great Honor of wearing my engagement ring, and will you together place your shared ring upon my finger in return, to carry the symbol of our betrothal for all to see?” Saying so, I held the first ring to Alian, as she joyously nodded her head, “Yes, a thousand times YES!” I placed her ring on her Finger, then turned to Jeanette. “You didn’t even have to ask, YES!” I placed her ring on her Finger, and the two took the third ring and together placed it upon my Finger. I then handed the Bouquet to Alian. “The Flowers are something of an Apology, as something happened before I came home, which altered our family, without your say so.”

Just then, a Maid entered with Gabby, Clean and Dressed, and I reached my hand towards her. “I adopted a Daughter, she was enslaved, and being mistreated. I bought her, rather forcefully, and then freed her, explaining that I didn’t buy a Slave, but paid a Ransom to get a Family Member away from a Bad Person. I hope you’ll forgive me for this surprise child of ours.” I kissed Alian’s hand while hugging Gabby. “Of Course I forgive you, I would have done the same, if I had the courage at least.” She knelt to Gabby and opened her Arms. “May I have a Hug too, Daughter? Gabby was it?” Gabby nodded and happily entered Alian’s warm and genuine embrace. I could tell she was truly overjoyed to have Gabby to pamper. The crowd applauded, with one exception, whom I noticed. The very same man who had mistreated Gabby, he noticed my Gaze, which had turned cold as ice. I pointed directly at him. “That is the very piece of trash in question!” He tried to escape, only to be grabbed by the Guards. King Donican called the Maid to him and whispered into her ear, then got a response. “The Maids inform me that this child has been abused, which is a direct breach of the Laws protecting Slaves. The punishment for this Crime is to be Enslaved yourself, and be sold to a Salt Mine. Collar him, and take him away!” A slave Collar was placed upon his neck, and he was hauled away.

Profound satisfaction was all I felt at that moment, as all three of us embraced Gabby from all sides. “Thank you, Your Majesty, for indulging my interruption, and I am glad this situation was also solved. I suspect the trash thought he could cause trouble for me by complaining about misappropriation of his “Valuable” slave, that he treated “Oh So Well,” Never thought it would involve the Royal Family Directly.” Donican huffed in annoyance. “I see what you mean about Power Corrupting. He had Power over Gabby and abused it, ignoring the Law. Good Riddance!” Just then, a runner from the Gate Guard arrived with a Message Scroll. “I bring a Message from the Guard Captain.” A Palace Guard accepted the Scroll and brought it to the King. “Hmm, it appears your fears were well-founded. Guards, seize the General Talos, under the charge of treason.” A muscular Man, who was no Surprise NOT a Tiger, roared in anger, and drew his weapon, beginning his charge towards the King. I cast my super bright light beam into his eyes, and then instantly raised my loaded crossbow and pulled the trigger. The bolt flew straight and true, burying itself in the bear man’s eye. He dropped like a stone, and everyone in the room marveled at the Weapon that saved the King.

“My thanks, future daughter, I’m glad you kept that weapon on you, though I imagine it was an oversight on this occasion. Do try to remember not to bring weapons into the Audience Hall in the future. I can overlook it this time. Fortunately, the General seems to have acted alone, rather than a major conspiracy throughout the Nation. The Bandits didn’t even withhold anything before the Mage Breakers verified their testimony. As a result, I will commute their sentence as you suggested, so enslavement in the Salt Mines, the same as the Trash from earlier. Enough of this, take your new Daughter, and mine, and go relax for the day. We shall speak this evening after dinner.” He patted my head; it felt good to my surprise. I then left with my girls, two lovers, and one adorable daughter. “Huh, I just realized, technically I’m the first one of us with a child.” The two slapped my shoulders affectionately. ”That doesn’t count, and you know it!” They both stated in unison.

Alian handed her Bouquet to one of the Maids, asking that it be put into a Vase in her room. Then all four of us went to the Library. Alian wanted to visit the Gardens, but I countered, suggesting that I’d like to start teaching Jeanette, and now Gabby, how to read and write. Then all three of them how to do Math with my Numbers. Adel and Cassandra were already in the Library. So I decided to start with numbers and math.

“There are ten symbols that each represent a value. Zero, meaning nothing, One, a single item, Two, a pair of items, Three, a trio of items, Four, a quartet of items, Five, a quintet of items, Six, a sextuplet of items, Seven, a septuplet of items, Eight, Nine. Having drawn the symbols, then using dots to show the value in a visible representation. You can make any number with these ten symbols.” I then explained the places that changed the value of the symbols. They all picked up on the numbers instantly. Then I started with the operation symbols. All of them picked up addition and subtraction, but Cassandra got Multiplication and Division just as quickly. Then I explained the math of variables called Algebra. Giving some very basic examples, and explaining how it can be very useful for Military Projects, supply, and management. Cassandra struggled with that, but did manage to understand it at least in part. Then Geometry, only very rough examples, without the whole Pi R Squared, or A squared plus B Squared equals C Squared. All the Princesses had a fairly good grasp of Mathematics, and though they verified their work with an Abacus, they weren’t making any mistakes. Jeanette was only able to manage the Multiplication and Division. Gabby naturally wasn’t quite as good, but addition and subtraction weren’t too difficult for her. “Don’t worry, you’ll get there. It takes time and effort. I’ll help you, and we’ll get you caught up to Cassandra in no time. Besides, you’re already better than anyone outside of this room.” I hugged her, and she cheered up.

All the Princesses helped me teach Jeanette and Gabby how to write. It took almost an hour before they were both confident in copying the Letters and what each one meant, and did in their singular form. At which point we were called to Dinner. A new chair was set, with no adornments, but taller legs next to Jeanette’s; They expected Gabby to sit by us. Dinner was MUCH improved. Everyone was stunned at the change. “I take it this is thanks to your intervention, Future Daughter?” Donican asked, and Vanessa giggled. “And clearly, my Wife knew in advance.” I bowed. “Yes, Your Majesty. Shortly after breakfast, I went to the Kitchen, attended by Alian, Jeanette, and the Queen herself; I made three simple dishes and had everyone taste them. The first two dishes I had made before I spotted a particular plant in the Kale Yard, which strangely nobody knew the value of. That’s the spicy taste in some of the dishes. They’re called Jalapenos, they’re a type of Chile Pepper.”

A joyous meal was had by all, and faces beamed with pleasure at all the enhanced dishes. Even their favorites had improved. “I started teaching the Princesses Math today, and they’ve all progressed quite well.” The King looked confused. “They already know how to use a Calculation Board.” I shook my head. “I taught them the numbers from back home, and how to calculate on a slate. Cassandra has learned some Algebra even but all of them can do Multiplication and Division. Next is Fractions and Percentages. Those concepts are a little trickier; then there’s Long Division, remainders, and powers to deal with. I expect Cassandra might have a decent grasp of everything I know within the year, she’s quite the little Brainiac. Jeanette and Gabby can both sign their names now. I’m feeling like a Proud Parent here, and I can only even marginally claim that with Gabby.” Now the King looked Intrigued. “You must give a demonstration, Cassandra, I want to see just how well you’ve learned this new method of numbers.” Cassandra eagerly nodded. “Oh yes Father, I truly adore these numbers, and the complexity of Algebra is such an enjoyable challenge, with its potential application to Military Record keeping, it’s going to be invaluable in its way.” “Indeed, Military Record keeping. How will it help, this Algebra?” “It will help with Supply and Distribution records, and Requisition Forms. To keep things ordered and recorded for quick review. Inventory will be much quicker.” Donican smiled warmly. “You truly are a Blessing for our Nation. You stamp out a rebel and provide new knowledge, all without a care in the world, aside from keeping your family safe. I’m certainly glad to be a part of your new Family. The peace of mind knowing my daughters can all count on your aid when they require it is priceless.”

Just then, the Dining Room Door swung open, and a Handsome Tiger Man walked in. Older than Cassandra, but at least visibly younger than Alaian’s twenty-three years, he strode in, and the doors closed behind him. He headed confidently towards one of two chairs, that though ever present, had been empty till now, on the King’s other side. “Darnel, welcome home, my son; how was your mission? We had an incident here involving General Talos, so I hope he hadn’t set up any surprises for you.” Darnel, who had smiled at the welcome, was shocked at the statement about General Talos. “An incident, Father? Of what kind?” “Treason of all things, and when confronted, he didn’t even attempt to defend himself, but attacked. Luckily, your future Sister had forgotten to leave her Crossbow outside the Audience Hall, and was able to drop him in an instant.” “Future Sister?” Only then did Darnel notice me, and his Eyes practically bulged out of their sockets and onto the floor. “It seems some monumentous events have occurred in my absence, but as to my Mission, there were no surprises, at least not that I am aware,” I spoke up. “Perhaps Bandits wearing matching, and too fine dark hooded cloaks, Your Highness?” Darnell thought a moment, then nodded. “We did indeed kill a group of Bandits that match that description; I wouldn’t have thought much about it, but the Cloaks did stick in my mind somehow. Only when you said they were too fine and matching did I realize what bothered me. They posed little threat to my Mission. Might I presume you are my Future Sister that was mentioned, and perchance, may I have your name?”

I bowed my head in respect. “Naturally, your Highness. My name is Jane Rae Richards; I don’t mean to sound pretentious or anything; I’m not even nobleborn, your Father, and everyone in the immediate family knows the details, and I’m certain you’ll be told in Private. Then I expect you’ll come to ask, maybe twenty million questions that the others wouldn’t, owing to different interests and specialties. I have barely begun to dump information out and have already advanced both weaponry and metallurgy, and as you’ll notice once you take your first bite of any dish, the food quality. Not that I cooked the dishes, only that I revealed some uses for plants in the Kale Yard that nobody realized were edible. Beside me is my Concubine Jeanette, though Alian and I both think of her as a wife, and beside her is our newly adopted daughter Gabby. Thankfully, Gabby isn’t recognized as a Noble, but a direct Ward of the Royal Family nonetheless, so I hope you will treat her with the Love I expect out of an Uncle.” I bowed my head again. “A niece is it, that’s wondrous news. Might I request a welcome home hug, young Gabby? I’m certain Father won’t mind indulging this once.” The King nodded his ascent, and Gabby, being overjoyed at yet another person claiming her as Family, and cherishing her, leapt off her seat, ran over to her new Uncle, and gave him a Monster Hug. “Welcome home, Uncle Darnell!” He chuckled as he hugged her. “This doesn’t mean you won’t be making heirs the traditional way, does it, Sisters?”

We all three shook our heads. “Dear Brother, you know I’ve always wanted to be a Mother, to give birth, and how no previous Marriage offers were seriously considered, because they insisted I shouldn’t have to bear the Child myself. Now I have a Betrothed that not only will allow that, but is genuinely relieved about it, for reasons you’ll learn in Private; I surely won’t give it up, and neither will Jeanette. Jane even came up with two ideas that we are going to attempt. First, if two Tigers can jointly impregnate a third female. Naturally, that’s Jeanette, and secondly, can Magic induce milk production in a Woman who didn’t give birth?” Darnel was gobsmacked at both suggestions, but the whole hall was abuzz with the second idea. “That, both of those Ideas would be Stupendous if they work. You’d create a whole new bloodline with the first, and the second could help so many women, who for whatever reason aren’t able to give birth.” Alian smiled, “Father said the same thing!”

Darnel’s eyes lit up at the first taste of the food. “You weren’t kidding about the food, it’s amazing!” I chuckled again. “I’m just getting started, there’s so much good food to share. More, depending on the availability of ingredients. There weren’t many Potatoes in the Kale Yard, and everyone thought they were weeds; I’ll have to see about setting up a farm field somewhere to grow them, they’re a National Staple crop back home. One of the States is Famous for its Potatoes. Something else I want are Sugar Beets, the ones that are too hard to eat. They are called Sugar Beets back home, because you can make Sugar from them. That, in turn, allows for many desserts. Cookies, cakes, pastries, puddings, Gelatins, Ice Cream, if I can figure out ice magic, or else make an Ice House, and stock it during the winter. There are ways, and ways to improve food.” The whole hall went silent at this revelation of Sugar being something easy to acquire.

I couldn’t help but outright laugh. “I come from a Nation that can provide fresh vegetables, Fruits, Nuts, Berries ALL YEAR! Not because of the Climate, but because of our methods of preserving foods and shipping them hundreds of miles within a single day. Unlike here, where traveling less than forty miles took nearly a whole day. Our Nation, at least the main part of it, what we call the lower 48, is thousands of miles across, and it only takes a week to travel casually from one side to the other. There’s one State slightly north and west of the lower 48, only a couple of hundred miles, but we have to cross the Border between us and Canada, so by ground, there are two border checkpoints to cross. Passports are required, and it’s usually a decent wait for Inspections. Checking for Contraband and Criminals. Then the same thing again on the other side. The last of the States is an Island Archipelago called Hawaii. It has its own unique culture. Then we have a couple of territories that are protectorates. Their governments went corrupt, picked a fight with us, lost everything, and we installed a new government from their citizens, and oversee them, while using our own Navy to protect their shores. Keeps them in line, while letting them be themselves. We don’t want to ruin their cultures.” All of those are hundreds of miles out at Sea, and people can reach them the same day they depart.”

Darnel’s eyes were full of amazement at the distances involved and the speed of travel implied. “With such speeds, how is it we’ve never heard of any of these lands?” I smiled, “That’s a Private Family Secret, you’ll find out later behind closed doors, but suffice it to say, that even with our speed of Travel, we wouldn’t ever be able to reach this Nation. Some power beyond my understanding brought me here, and dropped me face first, and Naked out in the Woods, directly in front of Jeanette when she was on a Quest to hunt a Boar, which I later killed when it surprised me in the Morning, when I was relieving myself.” Complete bafflement on everyone’s face. “As my future Daughter has stated, the exact details are Private Family Secrets. She is here now and is staying. She’s our Family now, and we will benefit from her very presence. Her knowledge of her People’s inventions, foods, tactics all sorts of things will help us all. Forgive us for keeping the precise details secret, but the Truth is quite startling, and if uttered in the wrong place, could cause a Panic; it shakes the very core of our understanding of the world as a whole. She has trusted the Family with this Secret, but for the rest of you, ignorance is bliss.” The crowd settled, accepting their King’s word that they were truly better off not knowing the details. That the potential threat of my old Nation couldn’t even reach them with all their might, and that I had no method of returning, nor wish to do so, was all they needed to know.

Once Dinner was over, we retired to a private setting, specifically the King’s Study. We discussed Darnel’s Mission, which was a simple monster suppression. It would seem a pack of Wargs got a little too large and decided people were acceptable prey. Now the Pack had been culled, the people were safe, and surprisingly there were no casualties, and the Minor injuries had already been healed. I then revealed all my Secrets, and Darnel was splendidly shocked at the fact I used to be a Man, and a different species into the Bargain. “So does that mean I should call you Brother then?” “Hell no! One person outside of the know hearing that, and it’s going to cause a ruckus. You can treat me like a Brother while calling me a Sister. Gabby looked at me in Wonder. “So you’re kind of like my Father, and Mother all in one then?” I hugged her tight. “You could say that, but if anyone asks who your father figure is, tell them it’s Uncle Darnel, ok? Nobody needs to know it’s me. Can you do that, keep my being a Man before a secret?” She smiled, nodding furiously. “Yes, Mother Jane, I wouldn’t do anything to make you mad at me!” “Awe Honey, I wouldn’t be Mad at you for that, it could cause trouble for everyone else though, even you. People might make fun of you if they knew, as stupid as that is.” Gabby hugged me back tighter, happy to be so loved.

The girls and I retired to Alian’s Chambers, and set up Gabby in what would typically be the Lady’s Maid’s side room, since she wanted to stay close, and Alian had never seen the point in a Lady’s Maid, when all the Maids showed up in the Morning every morning anyway. I had a thought, and wondered if I could alter the walls to soundproof them with Magic. I placed my hand on the wall, and thought of exactly what I wanted to happen, and willed the changes. Sure enough, it worked, and everyone could hear the difference, if not see it. “What did you do, Love?” Alian asked. “I can, it would appear, use Earth Magic, too; I altered the wall's shape inside to block sound, so it won’t carry through the walls. Should help Gabby sleep, if we make any, … Loud noises during the night.” Alian and Jeanette blushed, knowing exactly what Loud Noises I was referring to. “An excellent notion, Jane;” Jeanette said, still blushing. “Do the rest of my rooms too if you can, did that drain you at all?” I shook my Head, “That’s the thing, I’ve never felt drained doing magic, I just don’t know what all I can do. I’m new to Magic.” I altered all the walls, and the quality of the Silence altered noticeably. “All done, so is there an evening Bath, or just Bed?” “We Bathe in the Morning, which is good, because it removes the Sweat from our nighttime fun. So we can strip down, and have our fun tonight, before sleeping, if you’re up for it?”

She truly looked doubtful that I would want more so soon, and I couldn’t allow that misconception to last. “What’s this IF word you speak of?!” I pounced on my girls, practically frantic to remove their clothes, and they returned the fervor, kissing whenever possible as clothing flew all around us. We climbed into the Bed together and spent hours pleasuring each other, before passing out in a pile, not even bothering with covers.

I awoke to a pretty sight in the Morning, and I kissed what I found. Not the normal location to kiss, but she didn’t mind. All of us grudgingly climbed out of the bed and went for the Bath, Gabby following behind us shortly, after a Maid woke her. She happily climbed into the Bath and went around hugging all of us good morning. The tenderness made all the Maids smile indulgently. “Gabby, today I have some not-so-fun things to tend to. Would you maybe like to meet some of the Maid’s Children, perhaps you can play with them for a while, while I do the adult stuff.” Gabby looked dubious. “My daughters are in the Palace today, they’re roughly your age, and they run all over the Gardens playing all sorts of games. I’m sure they’d like to have another Playmate.” Gabby nodded. “Okay, I’ll try, I didn’t have friends before, I don’t know how.” I suddenly learned a major fact in Gabby’s Life. “Gabby, were you the only girl in the place you grew up?” She nodded. “Yeah, boys can be mean to girls, they don’t know how to treat them, so they end up hurting girls' feelings, even if they don’t mean to. Her daughters might be nice, but they might not know how to deal with you either, knowing you’re the Princess’s adopted daughter, they might think they need to be extra polite, instead of just treating you like a Normal Girl. Tell them how you want to be treated, like any other girl, and maybe they’ll loosen up, so you can all play and be happy together.” A determined look was clear as day on Gabby’s face now. “Okay, I can do that.” Once she was dressed, the Maid who had spoken bustled her off to meet her children.

Now dressed, I asked for a place to make the soap. Needing a Hearth to boil things, as well as a list of ingredients, pots, containers, and various other requirements for the process. Within two hours, I had a decently smelling batch of Soap curing in molds. Half an hour after that, several bottles of Shampoo had been made. I used the rind of a Citrus fruit to scent that. Then we took another half hour to make some Lavender hand soap. I spent another hour demonstrating how to make a Lotion for soft skin. Grandma taught me better than I had remembered, it seemed. Alian loved the Lotion, and insisted we introduce her sisters and Mother to it immediately. I just chuckled and went along with her. Breakfast was a Private affair that day, with Darnel being home so recently, the King was expected to focus on him for the day, to ensure nothing was forgotten from his report. So we had waited for our Breakfast till after the Soap and Lotion making. I asked that the Maid’s Daughters join us if they were getting along with Gabby, so we could eat without separating them. So three bubbly girls were at Breakfast, talking excitedly about everything they played, clearly Gabby had made friends. The Queen joined us before we had finished, and Alian insisted she sample the Lotion at once. She was just as appreciative as Alian. “Truly wonderful Jane, you have my thanks, and I suspect all the Noble Ladies will be singing your praises for this alone.” Having said that, seemed to be a summons, or a Magic word. A tiger woman came in at that moment.