Sometimes I wonder what on earth children are taught by their parents, to grow into adults with no thought for others. Once again, I've had to sit through several hours of boring discussions about the rights of servants. Normally I would find it rather interesting, but really, this wasn't a discussion. It was a few pompous nobles saying what they thought about the matter and caring little of what others presented. In the end, I told them all that if they had a problem, servants could have the same rights as any noble. It saddens me to think that they have almost no rights, but perhaps one day, one of my descendants will change things. It did, of course, shut the nobles up.

But that is not what I am concerned about, of course.

It has been only a short while since Diona and Boaz were introduced, but I fear that he is not the lovely lad I met several years ago, or that he has forgiven us for Zare's absence. I know I must not worry about Zare, but it is so hard not to. I know he was disappointed to have missed the occasion. Getting back on track, I need to talk to Boaz soon, and perhaps suggest that he talk to Zare if he wants answers. I hate to lay such decisions on my children, but one day, Zare will be King. Practice would not hurt. And if the two princes developed a relationship, a good one, or at least some sort of respect, that would greatly help in the future with dealings with Carthak, not to mention put more pressure on their continued testing of our boundaries.

And perhaps I should have a chat with Lee. I do not mind her strong will and spirit, but perhaps it is time she began to learn when it inappropriate to show one's true self. She will, after all, be married, one day. If she or I can find a gentleman of reasonable position and wealth (so the Council doesn't complain) that would love Lee for being Lee, I would be overjoyed. I pray to the gods every day for just that. Not now, however, maybe in a few years.

It helps to write down all these things, as there are some things I don’t even discuss with my husband, and so I can come back in a year and see how things have, or haven't changed. I am very glad I was taught to have a journal.