Oh yes

Sam stared at the ice cream in front of him, his face red, unable to touch it. His initial hope had given way to suspicion, then horror as Victoria explained what she wanted him to do.

“How many girls will be uh...attending this class?” He asked tentatively.

“20 or 30.” Victoria said. “Obviously just the girls that are 18 or older.”

Sam paused. His eyes narrowed. “How do I know you’ll keep your end of the bargain?”

Almost before he was done asking, Victoria responded. “I swear by the queen of Diamonds, I will return your power gem if you complete the task I’ve described.”

Sam was surprised. Oaths were serious business among Diamonds. Not only did they consider the words of an oath sacred, but also the spirit of it. Tricky turns of phrase and technical truths were considered shameful. If Victoria didn’t honor the agreement for any reason, it was likely another of her kingdom would fight her, take the power gem, and return it to him just to repair their collective reputation.

But what a deal it was. After a moment he gripped his spoon. He could endure a few rough hours if it meant he could have his powers back. He looked up and looked Victoria in the eyes.

“I’ll do it.” He said.

“Good.” She said, breathing a sigh of relief. There was a very long pause between the two. Hoping to stifle it, Sam asked “So...what did you say this class was called again?”