[Mekatra]

Elizaveta looked surprised for a brief moment, then remembered his upbringing. "Of course, I would delight in teaching you. It will be nice to win for once," she cast a disparaging look over to Leandrea who finally broke out into giggle as her response. "Come along to my solar, dear." She waved her hand for him to follow.

The ladies all fell into line and followed after. The Queen's Solar was located on the top level of the castle and had big bright open windows. Embroidery hoops were set up near several of the chairs, as well as a few lace maker's pillows. It was clear that while the women of the upper nobility didn't do any hard work, they still kept themselves busy. She gestured to a large chess set made of heavy carved wood.On one side were a cream colored set and on the other a deep burgundy hard wood. "Pick either color, it doesn't bother me which I play." Once he was seated she proceeded to carefully explain each piece and run him through a few practice games, taking her queen off the board as a handicap for him.