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As the woman moved away from the stew pot, Fatima could not help but take over.  If she let it boil erratically as it did there would be burnt bits on the bottom and the whole thing would have a tinge of charcoal flavor.  The young queen lifted a wooden spoon and diligently stirred the dish.  She could see the uneven cut on things like potatoes and carrots.  Fatima smiled, remember her own first attempts at cooking.  She paused her movements when Faeril mentioned her court.  Her whole body stiffened and then relaxed.  Relief swept through her entire body to know they were alive.  She could not ask for any more than that.  [b]"Thank you,"[/b] she whispered for she could not bring herself any more than this soft prayer.

She tasted the stew and found it to be rather bland.  Perhaps the meat had been added too late?  The little queen had to have something to occupy herself so she set to work.  Using a series of spices she brought out some of the natural flavors of the meal.  Once satisfied she reduced the flame on the pot so that it would simmer rather than continue on a rolling boil.  She turned from her cooking to find that Faeril was sitting at the table and watching her with something like annoyance? Or perhaps amusement?  She had yet to come to understand this woman's facial expressions.

Fatima sat at the table as well and lifted the warm mug to her lips.  Just as before the tea was absolutely delicious and she savored it on her tongue before swallowing it down.  [b]"You have done me such a great favor.  I am completely in your debt and will do my best to help you and yours."[/b]  She gave the woman one of her very charming smiles before taking another sip of tea.