The Tortoiseshell Princess Wore Her Pearls and Her Attitude
Swirls of black, orange, and brown blend across the princess's face, and her amber eyes shine in the candlelight. A small tiara of pearls and gold sits between her ears, a lace ruff circles her neck, and layers upon layers of pearls drape over her green velvet gown, which is stitched with golden leaves. A candle burns at the left edge of the dark frame, and her coat looks like glowing embers. Her expression is cool and unimpressed in a very regal way. Every pearl is painted with a tiny highlight, and the tiara glitters like a little crown of stars.
Tortoiseshell cats have a mottled coat of black and orange, and almost all of them are female. The coloring is a pattern, not a breed, so their personalities vary, though many owners describe their torties as spirited and full of opinions. This reputation is affectionately called tortitude, though it is more of a charming joke than a scientific fact. Like all cats, torties need play sessions, scratching posts, fresh water, and a calm routine. Regular vet visits help keep them healthy, and a cozy bed in a quiet corner suits a princess very well.
The princess knows exactly how good she looks, and she is not going to say. A single slow blink is all the praise you will get. It is a very high honor.
