Danger and Delight.

(This is by no means done. I just went over the ICQ log and dealt with some of the grammer. I am going to work on continuity next and puffing up the Nobles. Take a look later to see how it comes out.)

Dinner in Amber

The Great Dinning Hall of Amber is near the throne room and adjoins the mighty kitchen of the Castle Amber. From the vasty halls Dame Margot commands forces in Amber and Shadow preparing a wide arrange of dishes both exotic and bizarre. She marshals her soldiers; cooks, bakers, waiters, maids, cleaners, and butchers like an army on the march. Benedict has been known to comment favorably on her skill, and why not? Dame Margot served as Oberon's Mistress of the Commissary for the Armies of Amber.

How does she prepare the banquets of the State as well as the daily meals? She cheats. She has a thousand kitchens in fast-time shadows staffed by immortal cooks who joyfully toil away creating meals of a wide variety. A State Dinner is a massive undertaking, of course, and Dame Margot uses every trick at her disposal.

A State dinner is an opportunity for danger and delight. People practice courtly graces and intrigue. Insult and seduction. Few topics are off limits, few battles are left unfought, and the weapons of the table are not the butter knifes. The Ladies of the court delight in the subtleties and the gentleman of the war-field fidget. Nearly all the Amberites in town attend official gatherings. One can tell how formal a dinner will be if Julian is fleeing to Arden and Cordelia Feldane is gliding about in pale blue and pearls.

A state dinner has three parts. Food and Drink, diplomacy and intrigue, and Entertainments and delights. Dame Margot masters the food. The Mistress of Protocol is Princess Florimel of Amber. The Master of the Ceremonies is Lord Harry, or rather Lord Harald Chantris.

Princess Flora is well known for her skills at diplomacy, and her surprising rise to prominance in this field under Eric's reign shoked her as much as anyone else. Yet none deny her paramont skill at making fueding, even warring, parties to sit down and politely discuss flower arrangments over wine at the table of the king of Amber. She has made an art form of table arrangements and seat arranging. She has silenced war-gods with a Sush and a cocked eyebrow. Since a state dinner is considered neutral ground many people attend that might never speak in court and no one is ever arrested. At least not until after dessert.

Lord Harry is another of the beloved of Amber and a treasure he is. Harald Chantris is Commander of the Life Guard of Amber, a largely ceremonial order of knighthood with few duties and a great deal of prestige.

His real job is Master of Ceremonies for the Court of Amber. As such he knows every musician, singer, minstrel, bard and performer in Amber and seeks more in shadow at every opportunity. He knows how to distract combatants with flame jugglers and stop cat-fights with harpists. He has two special prerogatives in court. He may interrupt anyone while they are talking, even the king. This permission is not granted the Allen Dormin, Chief Herald of Amber; a point that irks Lord Allen immensely. The other is that he is allowed to pick food off any plate or tray in Amber. From the Ships in the dock to the tip of Tir N'ogath, he may stick his hand directly onto any plate, tray, trencher and drink from any tankard, goblet and glass; to taste the fare. He is sometimes called the Court Food Taster but he denies that office. He merely claims that in the press of managing the entertainment of the court he sometimes forgets to eat. Eric granted him this right after the previous Master of Ceremonies, Lym Mal at Riess, complained that Harald sometimes forgot to eat for days, passing out at awkward moments, and was the worst personal cook in shadow.

So the staff is addressed and you shall know them as they wander about, laughing, drinking, smiling, or picking off your plate. Now dinner commences.

The night was cool for Amber. Fires roared in the hearths of the Feast Hall of Amber and the nobles swirled in anticipation. The tables were arrayed with floral displays so vast that it seemed a battalion of gardeners must have worked for days to display them. A qurtet plays a lively aire from the corner.

A

Geryon enters the dining room and looks about. He is dressed in the finest silk he height of Bryton fashion, with a brilliant blue silk shirt and black linen pants tucked into thigh high boots. A cornet upon his brow highlights his rank as the King of Bryton, a Golden Circle Kingdom despite its distance from Amber proper.

Doria arrives dressed in a fabulous charcoal gray dress with jewelry and hair combs made from black onyx. Blond-haired Arkana by her side looking just as stunning is green and yellow.

Bleys surprises everyone by arrive both early and sober in a red doublet and hose. He wears a feathered hat. On his arm is a lovely lady with auburn tresses, the delectable Helene du Sarn. Rumors about them abound and are rarely denied.

Delwin, cloaked in the dark dread he habitually wears, arrives in a golden doublet beneath a brown over-cloak. His tenure as Chief of the Secret Police is new and does little to alliveate the grim arua about him. The crisis concerning the Sons of Rilga having caused the removal of Caine from this office adds tension to the evening despite the efforts of the staff.

Despil, the Ambassador to Amber from the Courts of Chaos arrives in a magnificent armani tuxedo and sports an ebony walking stick.

Fiona wears the green gown of her trump, and Dalt talks with her, wearing the uniform of the commander of the Arden Guard. He too is newly installed in the office traditionally held by Julian. Julian, a son of Rilga, had followed Caine into self-exile.

The music plays a nice melody to underscore conversation but it little slows the notables from noting what they will.

Ripper enters, uncomfortable in human clothes but smashingly attired in Mandalain golds and greens. On his arm is Flora, looking every inch the most beautiful woman in the room. Though she has orcestrated much of the evenings activities it will not stop her from attending on the arm of the aide to the new Ambasador from Mandalay.

The venerable Baron Vayle and his daughter Vinta are in attendace this evening. He is in declining health, despite everything, and has turned over the family business to his daughter. It is known that the House will be hers soon as well.

Geryon approaches the ladies. "Good evening Ladies, I hope the night finds you well."

"I've had a very trying day." Doria glowers, "Geryon, what is this trouble you started with Lugborz?"

Benedict comes in wearing the uniform of the Marshal of Amber, baton and all. This sends a ripple through the crowd. He avoids family dinners like the pleauge and avoids state dinners unless ordered to attend. His pressence maybe be a sign of the king's displeasure at the Sons of Rilga.

Doria winks at Ben. Ben does not respond in kind. He nods his head slightly to his daughter.

Jurt arrives in his finest height of fashion Nadsat black tux, all black and silver studded, horror-show kick boots and chains, and black bowler hat. His cane is a gorgeous iron wood cane that clearly holds a dagger pommel at the top. Known as Thin Whip to many in Amber he is the bad boy of chaos and a shocking attendee to tonight's affair.

He has been courting friendships in Amber and many of the nobles who sing and howl at his place in town are horrified to see him here. He looks to Arkana, who smiles widely in response. Doria's frown at Jurt's attentions to her ward.

Merlin arrives with Jurt. Wearing a formal tux in black with the sigil of Avalon on his chest.

Geryon's smile wavers for a moment at Ben's entrance, then comes back in all its shining glory as he answers Doria. "A little piece of family business. I didn't think it would ever erupt into this. O well, Live and learn."

Doria responds, "He almost started some serious trouble."

Geryon nods toward Merlin with a smile.

Jurt approaches the group and hears his last remark

Doria glares at Jurt, but quickly smoothes her face.

Jurt smiles as he says, "One must live and learn or one does not live long, Eh Lord Geryon? A pleasure to see you. And Lady Doria, I complement your taste in attire. Bold. I do so wonder where your sword is hidden?"

Geryon looks back to Doria and says "Lugborz did start some serious trouble. Several pieces of it. Now it will fall upon me and whoever I can get help from to put him down once and for all."

Jurt peaks an eybrow at Geryon. "ou speak of putting down Lugborz I assume? His star is on the rise in Chaos due to his recent coos at your expense. Even failures can improve a career in chaos. I never met him myself"

Doria, ignoring Jurt, responds to Geryon. "I see. At least you are willing to handle it. I have a bit of business I must handle as well. Maybe we can make some arrangement." She looks meaningfully at Jurt, "In more pleasant company, of course."

Geryon nods "Perhaps we could each help the other? Oh and by the way, I have some thing for you. It only works here in Amber, but i have another that will serve you in Bryton."

Doria raises her hand slightly, "Perhaps we should discuss this at another time."

Jurt asks awkwardly, "Lord Geryon, I assume you plan on attending the Rebman Sky Ball, next week? There is a fair chance I can arrange a meeting with people in Chaos who might know where his regeneration tanks are. If you are game?"

Doria reaches out a hand to Merlin, "Nice to see you again."

Geryon smiles at Jurt and says "Hehe, it is difficult at times to keep my mind from matters of state. Thank you, I will of course be attending the Ball, but I have not yet found a date." He sweeps his eyes to Arkana for a moment before returning his attention to Jurt.

Jurt say, "well, the Hendrake Red Turn Ball is coming up in Chaos. It honors the high lord. A general safe conduct is enforce by the high lord"

Doria glares at Geryon. She suddenly dreads trying to keep two suitors from her ward.

Arkana flutters her eyelashes coyly

Doria returns her attention to Merlin.

Geryon nods to Jurt again and says "that would be very helpful. When is this Ball you spoke of?

Jurt thinks, "About a month here, I believe. It will be held at the Main Hendrake Way. Perhaps you could escort Lady Doria? I was speaking with her earlier, at her lovely Cafe, about the merits of Attending. Lots of lovely gossip.

Doria narrows her eyes at Jurt. "Merlin, will you be attending that ball?"

Arkana bubles, "I am so looking forward to attending both the Rebman Sky Ball, and the Red Turn Ball."

Doria to Merlin, "I'm sure there will be some duty for you to perform during the Red Turn Ball."

The smile on Geryon's lips is matched for the first time tonight by a smile in his eyes, "What a wonderful Idea." He turns to Doria and smiles, "Would you do me the honor of accompanying me to Chaos for the Ball, my Lady?"

Doria frowns slightly, never in her long life having been faced with two such offers. "I'll have to let you know Geryon. I've already been asked."

Merlin says, " I will be attending. Family obligation. My mother would be unbearable if Despil, Jurt and I could not attend. and she knows how to be unbearable"

Doria looks to Jurt with barely concealed anger. She gages that noone is particularly watching them at the moment. She subtly snaps a short kick into his shin. Jurt doesn't flinch. He merely turns his ead and winks over a wicked smile hinting at dark passions.

Jurt smiles at Doria, "And do tell, Lady Doria? By Whom hast thou made assignations with? Mayhaps M'lady Arkana and I can arrive with you and your escort?"

"You have forgotten your invitation already. But it was only this afternoon. "Jurt smiles at Doria's clever attempt

"To be sure I remember. I was certain you wished to make other escort arrangements but I would be glad to share my arm with you and your lovely daughter. I shall be the envy of all Chaos! You had not accepted last I heard?" Arkana gives Jurt a cold stare of vehemence and turns on her stepmother as well.

Merlin peaks his eyebrow

Doria growls, "I had not declined either. I was considering your offer. You mean you have asked another as well!"

Geryon & Merlin sense the heavy tension between Doria, Arkana and Jurt.

Arkana quietly, stretching her eyebrows, "mother......."

Geryon takes a sip from his glass and smiles at Doria. The dark humor showing in his eye.

A thought begins to pervade the court tat it is taking a long time for random to arrive

Doria ignores her daughter. "Or maybe you wanted us girls fighting over you?"

Jurt says through a devilish broad smile. "Not at all. I am courting your lovely daughter and it is only proper I give due respect and regard to her charming and formidable step-mother"

Doria responds, "Oh, well then, when is that going to start."

Merlin's eye peaks higher and he comments "ah.. I wonder what is keeping the King"

Jurt turns to Merlin, "When will dinner start? I wonder what is keeping the King and the new ambassador?"

"Ark, darling", Doria asks,", maybe you can inquire of the queen and see if she needs any of your assistance."

Jurt notices Flora. "Flora looks fit to be tied over there. I think she is actually sweating"

Geryon glances toward Flora, his bad stuff glinting in his eyes once more and says to Doria, "Perhaps you will reconsider my Invitation? We will speak of it again, if you wish."

Doria turns to Geryon, "Certainly."

Flora suddenly storms into the hallway of the entrance. Everyone hears "Go in now or I will personally piss in your food you arrogant pricks"

Doria raises an eyebrow. She is not alone as widen eyes across the room turn towards the door. Turning to Merlin, Doria says. "Merlin, with me being a Hendrake, wouldn't I have an invitation of my own?"

Merlin shakes his head, "My understanding is that they are angry that you have not made formal acknowledgment and fealty to Hendrake. So no. I believe they intend to deliver a Writ of Acknowledgment at some point. "

Merlin continues, "It is a formal document detailing what you need to do to be formally recognized in the house. Once you complete the act you are officially a member of the House. Jurt, Despil an I have all been through it.

 Julian and Gerard follow Caine, who is on Flora's arm; although it is unclear who is leading who. Caine's dark countenance looks grimmer than usual. Gerard leads a stunning red headed woman in a glimmering gown.

Jurt nods. "It appears that the delay was due to the Sons of Rilga

Bleys perks up and crosses the room, taking the hand of the woman on Gerard's arm in his own and gallantly kissing it.

Bleys says loudly, "Sheanne! I am so glad you decided to attend!" Shaeane, Bley's daughter and a unknown face in Amber till this evening, gives her father a peck on the cheek.

The sons of Rilga look abashed as Flora guides them in. Servants bring them drinks. Caine's gin is prominent.

Shaenne smiles brightly, and coasts over to kiss his cheek. "Good evening, father."

Bleys beams."Father...ah Bliss. Are you ready to enter the maelstrom I call a family. Lets see.... oh. There is a likely bunch. Thank you Gerard for convincing her."

Bleys leads her toward Doria, Geryon, Merlin, Jurt, and Doria's step-daughter Arkana

Geryon performs a near perfect bow at the approach of the others, "Good evening uncle. Who is this vision at your side?"

As they arrive Doria is saying to Merlin. "...Perhaps you can give me a few pointers before the big party. Bleys, Sheanne, good to see you. We were just discussing politics in Chaos."

Bleys smiles, "A pleasure as always War Goddess. My goodness the Rilgians were late tonight. Sheanne, I want you to meet Doria, Geryon, Merlin and .....ah....Jurt. This is my daughter Sheanne. Oh right, Doria! You two have met! Splendid. I am overjoyed"

Jurt eyes Sheanne with frank appraisal and interest. Arkana, slipping her arm in Jurt's kicks him sharply in the back of the ankle

Arkana simpers, "As long as the gander gets a little goose he is happy"

Bleys says, "So, Politics in Chaos? Lordy I would rather discuss horses in a glue factory"

Shaenne offers smiles all around, "Doria. Good to see you again. Geryon, Merlin, Jurt. A pleasure."

"Yes well, there is this ball coming up." Doria says.

Geryon chuckles at Bleys comment, and turns his eyes to Shaenne. "A pleasure m'Lady." If no resistance is met he takes her hand, bows over it and kisses it softly.

"A ball?" Bleys smiles. " oh yes, the Rebman Sky Ball next week. Yes... I plan to attend of course.

"We were discussing my lack of knowledge of my family relations in Chaos." Doria continues. " And my lack of proper etiquette. There is a Ball in Chaos as well, as I'm sure you are aware.

Bleys laughs, "Really Doria? Well, as for family relations in Chaos, I am sure there are picture books somewhere there. Oh, a Ball in Chaos? Indeed? Intriguing... How does one wrangle some invites?"

Sheanne "So many balls..." Shae shakes her head, smirking a bit, "Must make choosing between them difficult."

Doria shakes her head slightly. "The time difference usually is such that you can attend them both."

Bleys says, "No, it makes arranging the time frames tricky but one would not want to be seen as rude for not attending

Jurt looks uncomfortably at Merlin. "Ah, Merlin, think the Hendrakes will mind if we bring half the court of amber? Between thee, me and Despil we can invite 12 others."

Merlin ponders, "I am sure we can get as many as we like. Won't Larsus be ...pleased...to have so many of us there. Doria, is there any chance you could convince Benedict to attend? That would make Larsus's night"

Sheanne accepts Geryon's attention, and responds with a playful curtsey. "If I might ask..? Whom do you belong to?"

Geryon turns back to Shaenne with a smile and says "I am the son of the Heroine, Deirdre. May her mind be given back soon." The last is said softly, almost under his breath.

King Random enters with Queen Vielle on his arm. Beside him is Fleece, Ambassador of Mandalay, in human form, escorting Bruiser, in the human form of Deirdre. The room goes dead silent and the brothers of Deirdre here start.

Julian mumbles "bless the unicorn."

Gerard, Caine, Benedict, Flora, and the nobles stare, not having been told.

Shae's attention snaps to Geryon, concern and confusion furrowing her brow.

The King approaches the head table. He picks up his glass. Vielle follows as do Fleece, and Bruiser/Deirdre.

Geryon rises at the entrance of the king, as his eyes go to his mother. A mix of pride and sadness fill his eyes tho the smile never leaves his lips.

Doria picks up her glass.

Marke raises, with glass in hand

Geryon picks up his tumbler. "To live in Amber forever!" He drains his glass and smashes it into the hearth amongst the shows of glasses tossed amongst the embers.

The assemblage answers in kind. The cheers echo amongst the stone walls of the massive hall.

Marke says serenly, "To live in Amber forever!"

Jurt says softly, almost shyly, "To live in amber forever....." and follows his glass to join the others

Shae lifts her glass slightly, says "To your health" lowly, and sips. But she doesn't chuck the cup.

Random raises his second glass. "To Mandalay! "

Marke says, "To Mandalay!"

Doria raises her glass, "to Mandalay."

Sheanna toasts, "To Mandalay."

The populace drains another glass of wine and sends the crystal to its doom.

Shea mumbles, " tisk, tisk. such a waste of fine crystal."

Bleys says lowly, "Shadow is filled with crystal. Besides, Margot comes out after the party and casts the Reconstruct Crystal spell. Every one of the toast glasses has seen a thousand feasts."

"To Amber!"

"To Amber"

"To Amber."

Random speaks-"The Lady Bruiser is not comfortable in this form. As a kindness to Lord Fleece we allow her to assume her.... Natural...form" Bruiser shifts shape to the battered looking wolf bruiser, no longer Deirdre. The siblings of Deirdre all look profoundly saddened when Deirdre shifted

Dinner is served

Marke whispers to Fi. "Is she is a werewolf.

Fi whispers. "No. Shapeshifter. As I have it she had bad experiences in the abyss and learned the skill and her mind was damaged. It will take some fixing but now that she is here we can see to it, son"

Geryon sighs deeply and takes his seat, shaking his head sadly once. He gathers himself and the smile returns to his lips. He looks at Shaenne and says softly, "As you can see, my mother has returned to Amber."

Geryon nods once more and says softly, "By the Horn and the Hoof, may that day be soon in coming."

The first course is an elegant collection of Calrabon appetizers. Snar snake roll ups and Buff Puffs with a fine Bayle's white wine, far above the usual cut of his white

Baron Bayle and Random talk loudly of wine for a time

The salad course is a collection of Saligir Flowers in light dressings

Entertainment comes in at Flora's call. String quartets magnified by magic waft on the air, dancers come and abound

Third course: Random walks to the curtain and looks behind it. He turns. "For the third course we have delights and business"

Shae apparently enjoys the salad very much. She picks through it like a champ, savoring every bite.

Marke holds any conversation as the entertainment begins. He enjoys it.

Bleys-"I do so love the Snar Snake. We need to go hunt them sometime, Shea?

Shae smiles, "When the time suits you, father, give me a call." She grins at him.

Random comes out. Behind is the one and only Philodendron Wise, Cheesecake maker to Amber, straight from Phil's Dinner, behind him is a corps of servants carrying cheesecakes

Shae looks intrigued.

The servants deliver a cheesecake to each four people. The rich treat

Random looks up as if he had expected it

Random then turns to Phil and with great solemnity he bestows knighthood on him

Doria remarks, "I guess being a good cook is a plus around here?"

Shae looks to her father, "Random just knighted the pastry chef? oh, sorry, the cheesecake chef? damn, the king must really like cheesecake! "

Bleys snickers, "You have seen amberites eat, have you not, daughter?

She nods, "I have now."

Bleys says, "Besides, Phil makes the best cheesecake in all of shadow. And Random LOVES cheesecake., Who knew..."

Shae agrees, "Certainly not I."

"Well, " Bleys adds, "it helps that Phil served with Benedict for 60 years, at least 30 as Chief Commissar for Provender"

Doria mumbles, "I'm a lousy cook so I'll probably never get anywhere."

Arkana pipes up, "Oh yes. You cook fab omelets, honey"

Jurt's eyes peak mischivously. Arkana looks desperately at Doria, terrified

Doria look at Arkana without expression.

Jurt leans across the table. "ah...Doria., Is it OK if I take Arkana to the Red Turning Ball?

Doria grins, "Thank you for asking. I think it would be very bad for her to be there, extremely dangerous... for her."

Jurt smiles, "I will take that as a Yes, but I should be very careful of her safety. Thank you for the warning, I was planning on being negligent till you mentioned it"

Doria growls, "That is not a yes. I don't want certain people to even know what she looks like."

Jurt laughs, "Who? Do you think that the Hendrakes have any doubt who she is? Shuke? Don't. They know every latch you have. I will protect her. "

Truman arrives late to the formal state dinner, arriving at the third course. On his arm is the lovely daughter of the Ambassador to <someplace important><and her name is?>

Truman announces, " Greeting all, sorry I'm late"

Marke says, "Greetings cousin Truman. How nice it is to have you join us on this historic event."

Truman observes the table, "historic event? did I miss a really good soup or something?"

Shae looks at the flashy cousin, one of many she has not met. "No, but the cheesecake chef just got knighted."

Truman smiles, "Phil? Sir Phil? Long overdue if you ask me!"

Bleys leans to his daughter, "Truman is a musician. I call him the rockabilly Amberite."

Truman greets Shae with frank approval, "howdy! Very pleased to meet you cousin"

"Likewise, I'm sure." Shaenne smiles friendly around her fork.

Bleys waves you over to a seat recently absented by Geryon. "Truman, this is my Daughter, Sheanne."

Truman looks at Bleys, then turns to Shae. "Daughter? My goodness Bleys. Well, Shaenne, my very great pleasure to meet you indeed"

"Cheesecake?" She slides a slice his way.

Truman accepts the plate, "I've always been a big fan of Phil's cheesecake. Fabulous texture. :"

Random looks down the Table, "Ah! Lord Truman!! So nice to see you. Fashionable late I see?

Truman stands. "I'm very sorry your Majesty, I unfortunately had this "Live Aid" thing I couldn't get away from"

The quartet begins to play a spirited tune that Amberites who frequent the theater know well, most having recently seen Bley's production of West Side Story at the <BLEY"S THEATRE>. From many voices across the room the words are quietly sung, "When your a jet, your a jet all the way, from your first cigarette to your last dying day…"

Random nods to Truman, noting the musical selection, "Of course! Good cause. I always approve of give aide to Live things"

Truman nods and sits, "I certainly meant no offense by my lateness"

Doria is quiet as she eats her cheesecake and tries not to glare too hard at Jurt.

Random stands as the fourth course is brought in. A crop of servants bring in a platter on which a full roast Calrabon Buffalo. In it is a Calrabon roast goat, then a roast Fetrry then Snar Snak. Cuts are portioned out.

Marke comments, "Now I get to enjoy my meal; finally a course with real sustenance

Truman smiles, "mmmm...Snar Snak...After the Cheesecake course? How fabu…"

Random looks over the crowd and sees if the populace has all had plenty of Snar Snake and Buff Random says it is time for more business.

Geryon returns, seeing his chair is taken, is invited to sit at the head table next to Bruiser

Marke looks disappointed at stopping from his feast but brings his attention to his majesty.

Vielle stands and calls Doria and Arkana to her

Doria stand, less than amused. She approaches the head-table and bows hesitantly. The experienced courtiers of Amber can tell that hers is a back and a neck that has bowed before few things.

Vielle smiles as she announces, "I this day call into my service as lady in waiting, Lady Doria, the lady Arkana, the Lady Shukrat, and Lady Sheanne, Lady Yalla Gant, Lady Helene du Sarn, Lady Sophia Urien"

Vielle looks over at Sheanne

Truman grins...

Doria's icy expression seeks anyone who might be snickering.

She casts her blind eye upon you, Sheanne

Shaenne looks shocked, stands slowly, and moves forward, dropping a low curtsey to Vialle.

Doria glares at Truman, because he's grinning. Doria glares at Geryon, for thinking it, and hiding it behind a polished smile. Doria's glare softens into determination.

Vielle extends her hands to the three ladies pressing a silver stone into each their hands

As the silver stone enters each hand it becomes a bouquet of flowers. When Lady Yalla Gant receives hers it does not seem to be able to decide which form of flowers to take. Roses, camelia, forget-me-nots and tulips shift and cycle. She notices Doria glancing at the shifting forms. She blushes furiously at the attention. She casts a shy eye toward Doria, unnoticed by the crowd,

Doria mumbles at the floral bouquet, "oh goodie." Doria's flowers are black roses with a dusting of white forget-me-nots.

Random kisses each hand. Lingering on Doria. "I know you all shall serve well." His eye mischievously winks at her.

Truman withdraws a pocket camera of a simple nature. He gets pictures of her holding her bouquet and having her hand kissed. As she turns, to allow the king to speak to the next of the ladies in waiting, she sees Truman snap another picture. She frowns at him, not quite knowing what the device Trumans uses is, but knowing it can't be something she is going to like.

Bleys looks at Truman, "You know, this just cries out for a portrait"

Merlin nods, agreeing, daring the storm.

Truman comments, "I may have to flee very quickly after this but it was worth it for the look on Doria's face"

Bleys says, "Truman, can I see that camera?"

Truman, "certainly" He hands it over

Bleys pockets it

Truman looks very sad and pouts slightly.

Bleys winks

Bleys shakes his head, "I was thinking National Inquirer. I got a guy down at New Warren Press, in the Harbor district, that would just love these."

Truman winces approvingly.

Doria sits next to Bleys and tries to smash his pocket.

Bleys laughs, "Doria? Did you think that was STILL in my pocket?

Courses go by. The next is roast Perfectly Natural Beast in a red-wine sauce

Marke gets back into the meal

Truman hums, "you make me feel like a natural beast...da dum..."

Doria glares at Truman through the remainder of the meal.

Truman does his best to avoid her gaze and defend any parts of himself under the table.

Random stands" I am announcing this evening that I have been invited to the Red Turning Ball as the guest of High Lord Swayvil. It will be held at Hendrake Way. All who wish to attend as part of my court please speak to Princess Flora

Doria glares, glares, glares.

Vielle adds, "I will require 8 ladies in waiting. Lady Doria, the Lady Arkana, Lady Shaenne, Lady Carmel, Lady Lydia, Lady Yalla, Lady Sophia, and Lady Althea"

Marke whispers to Fiona, "its good to be a boy sometimes"

Fi whispers back-"You mean you don't want to be a King's Companion?" Marke looks wildly at his mother, fearing he might be caught as firmly as the ladies have been.

Jurt catches Doria's eye. He smiles politely

Geryon picks at the remainder of his meal as he finishes of another tumbler of Irish. A servant delivers another immediately

Bleys leans over to Shaenne and whispers, "Don't worry. Doria is in a positively charming mood tonight, comparatively"

Truman smiles at Shaenne, and winks.

Doria elbows Bleys.

Bleys adds, "She is not called the War Goddess for nothing!"

Truman agrees "actually she is in a relatively good mood tonight"

Doria glares, glares, glares.

Marke finishes his course of perfectly normal beast and looks to Random expectantly hoping for the next one.

Truman smiles back

Random calls forward a group of nobles. He knights them, speaking on each's virtues. <CHECK THE COURT PAGE>

Fleece stands up and waves to a servant who disappears behind a curtain

Marke excuses himself from the table. Unfortunately I have matters that need my immediate attention. I shall return before last dessert

Fleece awkwardly speaks" Your Majesty. King Adrian thanks you for accepting my credential and sends you this in appreciation

Servants in the colors of Mandalay bring forth a seedling tree, its roots wrapped in canvas and tied tight. It bears the signature design of the great tree of Ygg. This can only be one of its saplings.

Truman gasps appreciatively

Random examines the tree

Truman examines random examining the tree from my seat.

Doria glares at Truman, who is examining Random, examining the tree.

Dinner concludes and Random invites everyone to join him in the grand hall for desert and dancing

Jurt leans toward Doria, "Lady Doria, I do so hope you will favor me with a waltz?"

"No!" Doria retires to her chambers to change into something more comfortable, and more deadly.

Truman whispers to Shae, in passing, Doria is probably going to go change into something that looks good with a boquet. You think? May I escort you to the ballroom? It will only cost you the first dance.""

Geryon mumbles, "like a kid at the big folks table"

Jurt looks over to Truman, "Hey True? Did she seem tense to you?"

Shae comments to Jurt, "You think?"

Jurt looks to Shaenne with a wicked smile and nods

Truman says as he walks to the Grand Hall, "she has a marked dislike of having to be onstage in anybut a killing role in my twisted opinion"

Shae nods, "I see."

Truman continues, "Its one of my goals in life to get her to take herself less seriously. The problem is its a fairly dangerous game, but that's the sort of thing that keeps life fun"

Shae comments, "She seemed insulted at being chosen to be Lady for the Queen. I can't see why. If she is so bent on protecting people, who better to serve, I ask?"

Flora is thinking of teaching Doria how to do cross-stitch and perform the tea service.

Truman continues, "I think the big problem is the use of the word 'Lady' in the title."

Vance looks at Truman. "Why do you say that, cousin?"

Truman shrugs, "If it were just called 'Dangerous Being in Waiting' or something she'd deal much better with it I'm fully aware of my own manifest personality flaws so I don't feel entirely comfortable speaking of her but that's my Sophomore Psychology take on it "

Geryon turns to Bruiser and says, "Hey mom, since you are Noble in Mandalay does that mean I get lands."

Shae says, "I suppose." Shae dips into a pouch at her hip, pulls out a small sprig of something green, and pulls off a small sprig, which she chews slowly while replacing the rest.

The orchestra in the main hall strikes up a lively aire. Random leads Vielle out to the dance floor. Deirdre resumes human form and dances with Fleece. Truman and Shaenne dances afterwhich Bleys leads Shae off to introduce her to some of the people she has not met.

Truman dares the fire. "Cousin Doria, will you do me the honor of this dance."

Doria glares at Truman and walks away from him, question unanswered, and approaches Benedict.

The nobles dance happily, having enjoyed watching the royalty at dinner.

Jurt takes Arkana's hand and leads her to the dancefloor

Geryon waits till the end of the first tune, he taps fleece on the left shoulder, meets Deirdre's eyes and says, " May I please have the honor of this dance, mother." Fleece steps away, quickly looking at Ripper who advises him to allow it.

Truman offers to fetch drinks for anyone else at the table

"Something light, please," Shae requests. "I've not eaten so much at once before."

Jurt approaches Shaenne and Truman. "Lady Shaenne, I am Lord Jurt of Sawalll, a kinsman of yours, sort of." The feel of Chaos hangs about this Lord of Chaos come amongst the Court of Amber.

Truman smiles, "Lord Jurt runs quite a swinging club and tavern down near the docks of Amber"

"m'Lord," Shae offers him an appropriate curtsey. "An honor."

"This is m'lady Arkana of Amber, Lady Doria's ward."

Shae looks to the woman, "We were not proper introduced earlier." Shae offers a hand, "Pleased to meet you."

Two figures approach. One is Vance, the other is Doria's sorcerer Adjur. Vance is well garbed in dark blue formal pants and coat of a General of the Union army of earth's American Civil War. A cavalry saber on his left hip, and a holstered firearm on his right hip. Adjur, a sorcerer of note, is attired as a student of Fantalin, Amber's university of Sorcerous Arts, a short black tunic over gray slacks and high cuffed boots. A silver rapier hangs at his side.

fleece looks on

JUrt goes to fetches the next round of drinks for the group and wanders by the sandwich table. He returns with a try of beverages and a tray of hou-rdourves

Geryon watches his mother leave, sadly, then joins the groups of others.

<Freesword> I bring beverages for the other table and a pitcher of water w/ goblets

Arkana goes WOOHOO

<Ariunna> Shae thanks him for the water.

<Ariunna> [[ got quiet in here... ]]

Random approaches the group by the sandwich table. "So. You lot. Your tenth begins tonight..."

Marke brings his attention onto the king.

Geryon looks shocked and stammers, "As you will, Lord"

Vance perks his eyebrow up.

Truman bows silently and mumbles, "trapped."

Marke snickers and says "drafted"

Shae looks confused.

"Lord Truman. I have need of your service."

Truman rises, "I shall not fail to meet your Majesty's needs."

"Lord Galar Charenton, wishes to leave his post as Ambassador to Diaga, I was wondering if you would be interested in taking the post?"

Truman peaks her eyes, "I would be honored your Majesty though I confess to an appalling lack of knowledge of that area"

"Well, they are a Golden Circle Kingdom. An ancient ally of Amber"

Truman blushes, "Oh THAT Diaga, of course... I shall aspire to serve as your Majesty would wish"

Random says, " Excellent. Then tonight we shall travel there and I will see to your establishment. Really late night though and we don't need to drive. Oh, the tunnel from Geryon here's world comes out into it. We may be conquering it in the next year. I would recommend you learned the language quick"

Random looks at Geryon purposefully. Geryon bows to his sovereign king and awaits his judgment

"Geryon. Benedict will be moving some troops through your kingdom. We will need some, ah,...bivouacking space."

Geryon says, "His Majesty and the Marshal of Amber know full well that they have the full support and access to all they need within my realm"

Random grins, "Ya know, you could have cut that don to an 'OK'."

Geryon nods once, smiling.

Marke blushes from the candor of Random

Random looks at Marke

Shae smirks a little, and pulls out another small pinch of green leaf from her pouch.

Random turns to Shaenne and she is suddenly under the eye of the king, looking at her hands

Shae notices, and holds it out to him. "Groundsel, your Majesty. The large dinner has given me a tinge of upset stomach." She chews the leaf slowly.

Random-" I have been told you are something of an herbalist? The armies of Amber need fresh healing salves. If you get together with Fiona I am sure she can teach you the procedure. That assumes it is not already familiar to you"

Shae smiles. "I am sure I do not know everything, Majesty. An hour of her time would be an asset, and I am pleased to help."

Random smiles, "excellent. Now. May I have this dance?"

Shae looks slightly shocked. Then she recovers, and curtseys, "Majesty."

Marke wonders if dancing with the King is part of her Service to Amber 1/10th rule

Random is a spectacular dancer

Truman comments, "the King can really shake his groove thing"

The evening progresses. Desert is served

Doria softens a little as the alcohol takes effect, but not towards Truman.

Marke I am the first back to the table and wait (un)patiently for Random to start

Cheesecake puffs in vanilla sauce are the center of an array of deserts.

Jurt smiles at Doria. "Ya know, Doria. I am an excellent dancer."

Doria stares at him and says, "Good for you."

He smiles broadly "Would you care to take a Waltz, Lady Doria? You can lead if you like." Arkana looks on smiling, nearly snickering.

Shae helps herself to a puff, savors it as conversations continue around her.

"FINE!" Doria nearly shouts, her patience with Jurt nearly worn to nub, "I am a quite lovely dancer myself. I just prefer better...Although, I don't know this dance. The Wallz?"

Jurt extends his hand, 'If you prefer better, I shall make it my mission to find better musicians. As for the waltz, I do know it." It turns out, oddly, that Jurt is indeed a fine dancer, aiding his partner to look graceful and grand.

Geryon in the course of the evening leaves quietly, without fanfare, and returns to the defenses of his realm.

Flora and Truman take the floor

<Ariunna> Shaenne looks around for Fiona.

Marke, frantically, looks around for a noble lass without a partner. He spies the shy Yalla Gant and approaches her. Soon she is gliding across the floor with him.

Lord Anumat eyes Marke speculatively.

Fiona keeping court in a corner, surrounded by 3 ladies in severe but attractive black dresses and 3 gentleman in red doublets.

Shae makes her way back to the table Marke is seated at, and motions to one of the chairs. "Is this seat taken?"

Marke says," No not at all, please join me. This is Lady Yalla Gant. One of the queen's new ladies in waiting." Yalla smiles innocently and greets Lady Shaenne.

"We haven't actually met. I'm Shaenne, Bleys' daughter." She extends a hand.

" Actually I just arrived back. I tend to spend most of my time in shadow, at least that is what my mother calls it. It will always be home to me."

Ben stares at Doria, looks indecisively about. "ah............No. I think not"

"I see." Doria says and leaves.

Truman says, "I've been wanting to make it by again, but you know busy things can be. I appreciate the invite and will strive to make it by soon ho"

"Ya man, sure. Say next Friday? I got a back up band if yours is busy. Mean bangers; green-haired harbor punks everyone but man can they swing!!"

truman frowns slightly, " That wouldn't be the 'Longshoremen' would it?" "I heard good things about them. I'm not sure how next Friday is gonna be for me, I'll give you a yell if i can work it out, Jurt"

Jurt continues, "And I imported this band from shadow. Sultans of Swing. They blow a mean horn. . Man, we should scour shadow collecting like ten of the same band. Like a orchestra of Stray Cats."

Truman says, "I may be having to do some stuff for my father out in sahdow this weekend so I don't know but If I can I'll try to make it thanks for the invite. Hmmmm….dueling Pink Floyds, pretty scary idea Jurt"

Truman excuses himself and goes to his rooms to pack

Adjur wanders over to talks to Fiona's men in red

head down, Doria exits. Wipes at her eyes and walks towards her rooms.

Arkana follows Doria out, watching her go.