Editor’s note: The following is a Dinner party that Fiona hosted. The principle characters were Flavel, Richard, Brand, Fiona, Clovis, Emma, Winter, Jaiveri, and Vianey played by Larry, Mel, Angela, Eve, and Jason.
Editors rant: After perfunctory editing this missive totaled 27 pages. I’m not going to bother changing the tense used by the players. Some of it is first person, some of it is not. It was inordinately difficult to piece this work together. The postings were often disjointed with people responding to other people’s posts sometimes 8 postings back. Often players would interject comments into other peoples postings and then others would respond to these comments, which in turn would orphan sub-threads. So it get’s a little confusing here and there. But most dinner conversations tend to get that way....
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As he wanders, a young page dashes up, bows and addresses him "Prince Flavel, her Highness Princess Fiona sends invitation for you to join her for dinner."
Flavel nods to the young page, "Thank you, please inform Princess Fiona I accept her invitation and will be present shortly."
Stopping briefly at his quarters he quickly scans his residence for any changes in his typical 'AR' manner before changing his dress to simple black tunic and breeches, with matching belt and boots. He hesitates before strapping back on his sheathed gladius. A look of disgust crossing his features. For all his antipathy for swords and warfare in general he sighs and ensures the sword weighs on him correctly and is ready to swing free. Who was it? Eric or Julian that cornered him one day about not wearing a weapon? Something about royalty showing a willingness to fight at a moments notice for King, and country. Seeing that his green cloak has been cleaned he first runs a finger across where cloak is to meet neck before donning it. Satisfied with his appearance he heads over to Fiona's residence.
The path there is not long and familiar to boot. As he comes to the door, he sees someone unmistakably akin to Brand in his features turn the corner, escorting two lovely young women. This must be the Richard he has heard of.
Richard nods, smiling, and courteously offers Jaiveri his arm. He smiles and says "Dinner with my aunt Fiona is invariably thought-provoking. I have met few with as sharp an intellect as she. My younger sister Winter will also be in attendance."
"Is that so?" Javieri smiles gently. "Then I look forward to meeting them both. It has been many days since I enjoyed a lightly formal talk." She slips her hand under his arm. "Please, lead the way." Richard escorts the two women to Fiona's chambers, pointing out various features and regaling them with amusing anecdotes. As they reach Fiona's quarters, they see a young man in black with a green cloak about to enter Fiona's quarters. Richard nods and says "Good evening, Prince Flavel."
Flavel's mismatched eyes appear distracted but he offers an easy smile and nods in return. "Well met Prince Richard...Ladies."
The servant opens the door and bows to Flavel, Richard, Jaiveri and Vianey, saying "The Princesses Fiona and Winter await you within."
Flavel casually demures to Richard and company to proceed first with the languid gesture of a silver palmed hand.
Javieri studies him quietly for a moment, and nods her greeting to him without a word. Flaming stars...princes and princesses both. How did I ever get in this mess?~ she thinks quietly to herself, restraining from casting Vianey a nervous glance.
Vianey looks at him with a cool, detached stare, quickly replaced by a smile. She nods her head in deference to him, preferring not to speak just yet. ~Better seen then heard, mama always said.~ she thinks.
Vianey notices his hand and looks at it a bit longer than she probably should, making mental notes. She smiles at Flavel, then walks in with Richard and Jaiveri.
Within the large chambers, two women wait. One, the more senior of the two, steps forward slightly. She is petite, looking as if she has been drawn to a finer scale than others. Fire-red hair falls to her shoulders, emerald green eyes seem to see through their very souls as she smiles politely. The woman says in precise enunciated, crisp tones "I am Fiona. I bid you welcome to my chambers."
Javieri waits until the royal members introduce themselves, and then inclines her head deeply in respect. Her long black hair tumbles forward with the gesture, and she lifts her pale green eyes. "Thank you, my lords and ladies. I am Javieri Winters, from a place known as Balsam." She lowers her gaze again with a faint pink hue in her pale, creamy skin
Handing his cloak to a nearby servant it's self evident that Flavel has come dressed all in black. The close fitting tunic and breeches, convey a tall, slender man who possesses the muscle definition of a dancer more then say a warrior. He moves with an easy grace, that stops with his mismatched eyes of blue and green that are in constant motion. A silver glyph is tattood on the palm of his left hand, and his brown hair has a lightning bolt streak of white running through it. The shortsword at his side seems more an afterthought to his dress then something he is comfortable with.
Winter stood up and curtsied politely to the arrivals. She is a rather unassuming woman, appearing more like a well-dressed librarian than a princess. Her eyes, barely hidden behind a pair of thin spectacles, are her most remarkable characteristic. One is as brown as otter's fur, while the other is the color of the ocean during a storm. Freckles dot her mousy features, the coloration heightened by the elflocks of dusky hair that curls about her slender throat. She stepped forward, offering her hand to Flavel in welcome. He, and other close by, immediately noticed the webbing between her delicate fingers.
/A hand kiss signal? Cosmic./
Flavel, without missing a cue, bows slightly and lightly takes Winter's offered hand at the fingers and dryly kisses the back of her hand. His eyes sparkle with amusement as he straightens.
Winter blushed profusely, having expected a handshake rather than a kiss. She stepped back, studying the young man from behind her glasses. Finally, she smiled in thanks and moved to stand beside him. Her hands knitted up as she fell silent. It was obvious she preferred to be at the outside of a group rather than a participant.
"To all of you, greetings and well met. I am honored to finally meet you all. I am Winter, daughter of Prince Brand." Her eyes darted between Richard and Fiona like nervous fish, then focused upon the others. "I would have offered you my last, as is proper, however, I am not entirely sure what it actually is due to circumstances I shall not bore you with."
Fiona smiles and says "If you will all follow me." and leads them through to a small dining room. Flavel remembers only too well his mother's liking for both privacy and perfection. The dining room is consequently furnished precisely and beautifully. Sparkling crystal and gleaming silver sit atop snow-white linen. Soft lamplight glows off burnished bronze objet d'art. Fiona moves to the head of the table. With a polite smile, she says "Please, my guests, be seated." The seating arrangement is such that Flavel is on Fiona's right hand, Richard on her left. Beside Flavel is Winter, beside her Jaiveri. Beside Richard is Vianey.
The young Winter watched everyone else for a time, then picking up on their manner eventually sat. She tried not to look uncomfortable or lost, but failed miserably. The arrangement of cutlery appeared to confound her as if some intricate puzzle. With a slight finger, she straightened her glasses and glanced about the table.
Just as they are about to settle down, the door opens again and a man walks in. He is slight of build, with bright red hair and emerald green eyes, handsome in a petulant, moody kind of way, dressed all in green. He smiles winningly at the small group. Richard's face takes on a neutral expression. Fiona shakes her head, a small gesture Flavel knows means that she is irritated. She says politely "How nice to see you, Brand. Please, do join us."
As much as Richard and Fiona appear irritated, Flavel apparently enjoys the introduction of Brand to their group. Smothering a greeting he decides it better to let Brand first respond to his mother's greeting before making his own hellos. For whatever qualities Flavel sees in Brand, a hint of admiration colors his poise at the presence of a favored uncle."
Winter's head shot up and her eyes grew wide. She recognized the face from his Trump immediately. Her father! A hand went to cover her mouth, which now opened wide with a suppressed cry of joy. Her entire body tightened as she realized that after one hundred years, she hadn't the faintest idea what to say to him. She'd been waiting for this moment an entire lifetime, and now that it had arrived, Winter felt as helpless as a tiny child.
Remembering Winter's introduction about Brand, Javieri turns to look at her. "I'm sure you would rather sit by your father," she smiles quietly, and slips out of her seat to the next one further down.
"Th-th-thank you," she stuttered. She smiled at Javieri with an appreciation typically attributable to one worshipping at the feet of a saint. Winter turned and began to rise from her chair, clutching the table for support. "There is a chair for you… father." The last word came out like a squeak, and a flash of self-loathing stained her features.
Vianey looks at the girl with a mixture of pity and sympathy. She obviously idolizes her father, who doesn't seem all that interested in her overly much. She perks up when he asks if there is room for two more.
Brand smiles warmly at Winter "Why thank you, Winter. I will be delighted to sit beside one of my dear daughters. If you will just give me a moment." He looks to Fiona and asks "Room for two more, sister dear?" Fiona nods once and Brand smiles then takes out a Trump and concentrates...
Vianey watches to see what he is doing, curious about these people and their strange habits.
Winter could hardly contain her excitement. She straightened her glasses once more (although they hardly needed doing so), then sat back down. With profound interest, she silently watched her father and waited for him to join her at the table. Briefly, she glanced over at Richard and offered him a familial grin.
The man called Brand proceeds to stare at the card. None of the people she and Jaiveri have been introduced to show any particular surprise at his actions though. Instead, Fiona nods to a servant who sets another two places at the table, next to she and Jaiveri.
The gathered dinner guests see two new people. One is a young woman. Tall, with dark auburn hair and hazel eyes,dressed in dark green and cerise, she seems effortlessly elegant and beautiful.
The other is a young man. Taller than the woman, though his colouring is the same. Like her, the sense of careless elegance and beauty is all pervasive. He is dressed in dark grey and cerise.
Emma and Clovis see that the dining room is furnished precisely and beautifully. Sparkling crystal and gleaming silver sit atop snow- white linen. Soft lamplight glows off burnished bronze objet d'art.
Emma glances around the room with a wide-eyed curiousity, and the beginnings of a shy smile on her lips. Then ... she sees Brand and her face lights up in delight.
"Father!" she says happily and, elegant sophisication forgotten, she moves towards him with her hands outstretched in greeting.
Winter study her overly joyous sister <Pronounced: rival> as she greeted their father. Quietly, she picked up a glass and drank from it to wash down the words rising to her lips. Perhaps Richard was right. Undoubtedly, he was. This was probably some test of Brand's to see how she would react. Playing favorites always struck up a bout of sibling rivalry.
Very well, father, she thought. I'll give you exactly what you want.
Underneath the table, Winter hid her right hand as its nails temporarily shifted into obsidian claws. She chided herself silently for this display of emotion. It was so unlike her.
Brand accepts Emma’s embrace with a smile then continues and introduces a petite woman, looking as if she has been drawn to a finer scale than others. Fire-red hair falls to her shoulders, emerald green eyes seem to see through their very souls as she smiles politely. "Emma, Clovis. This is your aunt Fiona. Fiona and assewmbled guest, this my son Clovis and daughter Emma."
Emma drops a low curtesy and then looks up at her aunt as she rises (standing, the niece would be a head taller).
"It is an honour to meet you, Aunt."
Brand smiles at a rather unassuming woman, appearing more like a well-dressed librarian. Her eyes, barely hidden behind a pair of thin spectacles, are her most remarkable characteristic. One is as brown as otter's fur, while the other is the color of the ocean during a storm. Freckles dot her mousy features, the coloration heightened by the elflocks of dusky hair that curls about her slender throat. Brand continues "This charming young lady is Winter, also my daughter."
Emma moves forward, her hands extended again.
"Sister!" she says warmly, and offers her cheek to be kissed.
Winter took Emma's hand and squeezed it softly. Outwardly, she was the personification of grace and poise. Inwardly, she wondered how much jaw pressure it would take to break Emma's windpipe.
"Sister. I have heard so little about you," Winter jokes. With a faint kiss on the cheek, she embraces her sibling and returned to her chair.
Patience, she thought. Patience.
Brand continues to a man who has come dressed all in black. The close fitting tunic and breeches, convey a tall, slender man who possesses the muscle definition of a dancer more then say a warrior. He moves with an easy grace, that stops with his mismatched eyes of blue and green that are in constant motion. A silver glyph is tattood on the palm of his left hand, and his brown hair has a lightning bolt streak of white running through it. The shortsword at his side seems more an afterthought to his dress then something he is comfortable with. Brand nods with a small smile "This is Flavel, Fiona's son and your cousin."
Emma contends herself with a bow of her her head and a warm, friendly smile.
Brand's gaze moves next to a tall, young man with red hair and dark blue eyes, his features unmistakeably Brand's. Leanly built, he nevertheless conveys a sense of danger, a restrained power and effortless command. His face is neutral. Brand smiles and says "This is Richard, my eldest son."
Emma looks at Richard, then a swift glance at her twin. Perhaps reading a message from Clovis that is apparent to no one else she moves forward smiling and curtseys again, lifting a hand to him as she rises, so that he can aid her to stand if he wishes.
"Brother," she says, and there is a hint of amusement in her voice.
Richard nods and does indeed aid her to stand. His eyes and expression though are unreadable, like a polite mask drawn over the person within.
Brand continues smoothly "Fiona, do be a dear and introduce the lovely young ladies who I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting."
Fiona nods and replies "Of course, it will be my pleasure. This is Jaiveri and Vianey."
The woman indicated as Jaiveri has long black hair and pale green eyes, with pale creamy skin dressed in a pale green gown.
Vianey is slim and sun-browned with light brown hair with blonde sun streaks and green eyes. She is dressed in a gown of a bronze shade highlighting her colouring.
"Oh dear," says Emma, shooting a comical look down at where her short flapper skirt barely reaches her knees. "It is rather embarrassing arriving here so .. precipitately. I feel so ... naked compared with the rest of you."
But when she speaks, it is clear that she is more amused than embarrassed.
Fiona smiles at Clovis and Emma "Please my dears, do be seated." as the twins see empty places next to Vianey and Jaiveri. Brand moves to sit between Jaiveri and Winter.
As each of the other dinner guests is introduced, Clovis greets them all with a slight courteous bow and a smile - an especially warm one for Winter. The very wide Oxford bags* he is wearing flow at each bow, although when he moves, it is a little stiffly, as though he has a limp.
When Richard is introduced, his dark eyebrows arch momentarily, but the smile is still on his lips.
"Well," he says. "What a delightful surprise! I've always wanted a big brother to turn to in times of ... erm ... woe."
Richard replies politely "Then you would seem to have gained what you wanted."
Clovis's lips curve into a pout.
"Ah!" he says with with a sigh. "Would that one could say that! But to have gained what one wanted would rather take the spice out of life, don't you think? Isn't it better to have vistas unseen, horizons unreached ... and lots of goodies awaiting one?
"To say nothing of new siblings and cousins," he adds, "and a lovly dinner to meet them at."
"Thank you," says Emma warmly. "This is terribly kind of you to invite us."
Fiona smiles politely and replies "You are welcome at my table, Emma and Clovis."
"Well," said Clovis, "one doesn't like to arrive empty-handed. Or ... erm ... in this case ... Em, be a darling and help me."
As he speaks, he is carefully pulling up the right leg of his Oxford bags and revealing, wrapped around his leg, what appears to be a length of dull, heavy material. Carefully, with Emma's help, he unrolls it, and displays a small but exquisite reactangular Turkish rug in rich shades of red and gold.
He moves, rather less stiffly now, and spreads it at Fiona's feet.
"A small token," he says airily, "and I hope you can forgive the unconventional method of delivery. What we ‘really’ should have done, Em and I, was arranged to be delivered in a rug a la Cleopatra on Shadow Earth. Then you would have had all the fun of unrolling us. But, against that, it does mean that one would sit down to dinner not merely slightly discomposed but rather dishevelled as well. And that really would be too bad when you have clearly gone to so much trouble."
He moves towards his seat ... then stops.
"Something more," he says. "A little token for my lovely new sister."
He stoops again ... and feels in his left trouser turn-up, then lifts out a beautiful filigree diamond necklace, sparkling and delicate in the candlelight. He moves to Winter and, with another bow, presents it to her.
Now wasn't this a curious fellow? Thought Winter, so unlike Richard, yet still obvious her brother. Brand must spread his seed like a bull seal, making sure he has a child in every harbour
Winter smiled pleasantly at Clovis, "Why thank you, brother. I fear I have nothing to give you in return."
She leaned forward and held down the collar of her dress so he might place the necklace on her. It looked rather startling compared to the conservative dress she was wearing. Once it was about her delicate throat, she began to examine it closer. Eventually, she nodded with keen approval.
Then he turns again to the company, and smiles.
"I'd better stop there," he says, "before the soup gets cold. Unless it's chilled - in which case we wouldn't want it to get warm."
Fiona smiles and as the twins sit, the servants bring in the first course. A lightly spiced soup. Aromatic and delicious.
As introductions and the light banterings of conversation continue, Flavel nods and smiles where appropriate but contributes little to the conversations around him. Fiona can surmise he's having one of his introspective moments...
As he listens internally to the recalled church-like organ and violin music of Tomaso Albinoni's Adagio he reviews the day's activities involving Dworkin, Bleys, Lisa, the fire pattern, Shado, Fyerghus, Rein, Matt, to which is now added a new host of assembled royalty. The strings of the violin's notes pull and tease sibilant musings and speculations as he dances in stillness to echoing speculations.
Clovis appears calm and relaxed as he eats, glancing at Vianney to one side of him. As the first course draws to a close, he turns towards where Fiona presides. "Dear Aunt, this is totally scrumptious and I really do want to send my compliments to the Head Cook and all that, but our rather unorthodox arrival has put poor Em and me at something of a disadvantage. I mean, this is an awfully nice dining room, and we both of us just love your choice of decorations and all that but ... where are we? Actually, this place reminds me terribly of Blythe, but inless Farve has had intensive remodelling done in our absence, I don't see how it can be ... "
Emma nods her agreement.
As the first course progresses, she raises her head from time to time to look at her newfound siblings - Richard and Winter - with something of the wide-eyed stare of a thoughtful kitten. If she finds they are looking at her - she smiles back, with a hint of mischief.
Vianey perks up slightly, if that is possible. She is still shocked at the two people coming from apparently no where. After they introduce everyone, Vianey rolls her eyes. She knows their kind. Rich snobs. Out for whatever pleasures they could find. She saw many just like them in the city when she went home, and she stayed as far away from them as possible. She wasn't sure what it was about her generation that liked alcohol, which was prohibited, and the short, immodest dress that women favored. She was brought out of her reverie as Fiona speaks.
Fiona glances briefly at Brand before answering "This place is called Amber. It is the homeland of your father and I as well as all Amberites. It is one of the two centres of creation."
"I see," responds Clovis. "Then we hold ourselves more than ever honoured to be invited here, don't we, Em?"
Then the gravity in Cloviss’ voice lifts. "Oh ... is that asparagus? How delightful if it were. My absolute favourite! And hollandaise sauce?"
He looks back at his aunt, then at his father. "Is one permitted to ask questions? Or will Emma and I be informed of all we need to know?"
Vianey looks at Fiona, waiting to see what she answers.
Brand smirks slightly and Fiona replies "One should always ask questions. Sometimes the answers may be forthcoming. At other times, they will not." She includes the whole table in her gaze as she says this.
Vianey looks again at Jaiveri, feeling even more like an outsider. Without saying anything, she continues eating, listening to the others talk.
"Excellent," responds Clovis, offering the dish of aspargaus to Vianney. "Then may I ask what the other centre of creation is? And if there are two, this seems to suggest some form of equilibrium. Are we yin and yang, masculine and feminine, positive and negative? And if so, which are we?"
He paused to lick, with some delicacy, a trace of butter from a long, slender finger before offering it to Emma.
"And what is Amber? A place, or a state of being?"
"My questions," says Emma almost apologetically, "tend more to the practical. Please, are we staying here, or will we return to Kensington after dinner?" She glances at her father. "And if we are to stay, will we be able to find clothes that are more suitable for this ambience?"
She looks again at her siblings and smiled.
"I would like a chance to become further acquainted with my newfound kin, if it is permitted," she goes on. "And Jaiveri and Vianney too."
Brand replies "I'm sure we can arrange residences and clothing for you both. Amber is a place, my dears, as are the Courts of Chaos. And one might say Order and Chaos."
He smiles "It is of course your choice as to whom you become acquainted with."
"Thank you, Father," responds Clovis. "We shall, of course, welcome your guidance."
He glances again at his father, and smiles, a little bleakly. Then he turns to Vianney.
"And are you an inhabitant of this fair realm? Or a stranger here like Em and me? If you know Amber then you could be tremendously kind and introduce us to the place. Or ... if not ... we could have all the fun of exploring together, don't you think?"
Vianey smiles in a friendly fashion, belying her true feelings. "Actually, if I'm not mistaken, we are from around the same... place. I am from New Mexico."
"Well," says Clovis, shooting a thoughtful look at his father, "I've heard of the place, from our time on Shadow Earth. Although ... our native Shadow was ... somewhere else. You could say that ... our education was somewhat interrupted."
For a second, his eyes darken. But then he relaxes and smiles at Vianey. "And is it very beautiful, New Mexico?"
"Thank you, Father," echoes Emma to Brand. "May I be permitted a further question? Is there a reason why we have been brought here, now, other than to share in this deligtful dinner? I mean, I am sure, Farve, you have your reasons for introducing us to our siblings now."
Brand replies "Oh, did I forget to say? How forgetful. We're all gathering for a funeral. Specifically that of Duncan. Foster-son to Julian, my son and Richard's younger full brother."
Richard's face does not change expression though he briefly pauses to say to his younger siblings "I am sorry that we could not be gathered for a happier occasion before this."
Emma drops her fork with a little clatter against her plate and stares across at Richard, her eyes wide with horror.
"Oh Richard! We had no idea! I am so very, very sorry. I just think how terrible it would be if I were to lose Clovis."
She looks quite appalled. "And here we have been, talking of trivialities, when this meal must be a perfect nightmare for you."
Javieri pauses for a moment. For a grieving father, Brand doesn't seem all that upset. She instinctively sets up her guards, looking at Vianey across the table while she continues to nibble politely at her food. The more she sees of and hears about Amber, the less inclined she is to like it.
Vianey returns her look, raising an eyebrow in question. She looks just as appalled as Emma, only for different reasons. Shaking her head slightly, she places her utensil onto the table and looks at each of the guests, coming to quick conclusions about most of them.
"What Emma says goes for me as well," says Clovis quietly. "It must seem something of a hollow mockery to be presented with our frivolities and told we are your siblings too when your grief must be so fresh and raw. But when you know us better, you will, I trust, learn that we are not as heartless as we may have appeared.
He glances towards his father. "Farve, I am sure, has his reasons," he says, with a touch of irony.
Brand smiles "Of course I do. And if you will all excuse me, I will leave now. Things to do. Lovely soup, Fiona." He grins and gets up, adding to Winter "Later, my dear." then strolls out.
Vianey snorts quietly in disbelief, shaking her head again.
Winter nodded politely to her father, dabbing her mouth with a folded napkin. She is so unsure of how to react to his quick departure, appearing lost. As she watches Brand depart, it seems as if she will speak, but then thinks better of it. Her eyes drop back to her meal and she continues eating without another word.
Fiona looks at Richard then says "We all mourn Duncan. He was a good man and will be much missed."
Richard is quiet a moment more then turns to Jaiveri and Vianey "I regret you had to be here for this. If you wish me to escort you back to your chambers I will do so." He then turns to his siblings "Please do not concern yourselves. Neither of you were to know."
Javieri shakes her head faintly. "It's all right, I remember the way. And I would rather like to see those gardens before it grows too dark. Please stay, enjoy the company of your family," she smiles, and rises to her feet.
Vianey smiles at him, patting his arm. "Family problems are common wherever you're from, Richard. Don't concern yourself. Dinner is lovely, and the company is much improved now. I don't think we need to be escorted back just yet." As she says this, she tilts her head and looks at Jaiveri, smiling at her. "Isn't that right, Jaiveri?"
Emma glances at Clovis, her eyebrows lifting slightly.
Clovis shakes his head. "Best not," he says quietly. "He might not find it ... amusing."
He turns to Fiona, and there is little trace now of the light easy humour he displayed on arrival.
"I am sorry," he says. "We seem to have brought distress to an already stressful occasion - and however little we intended that, you must be wishing us at the Devil or ... " a bleak smile touches his lips, "Chaos, perhaps."
Richard smiles wryly "As I said, don't worry about it. And as a resident of the Courts, I can assure you it is really not that bad."
Emma gave a little cry of distress and clapped a hand to her mouth.
"Oh! Clovis!"
Clovis raises both hands in a gesture of surrender. "I give up," he says ruefully. "I am clearly doomed to damn myself with every word I utter this evening. Doubtless if I glanced out of the window and remark on what fine weather we appear to be having, I will be frostily informed Amber is experiencing the worst drought within living memory."
He drops his head in his hands.
"Oh, drat it - I didn't mean that! I'm sure you will now all rush to inform me that I spoke nothing less than the truth."
He looks up at Richard.
"Can you acquit me of all but ignorance, and at least ascribe me good intentions? And believe me, I will endeavour to learn."
Richard laughs, a deep rich sound in comparison to his grimness of earlier. He smiles at Clovis "Why be angry at one who means well? You are certainly not damned. I've heard far worse in my time as a soldier, trust me."
He looks at Jaiveri and adds "Lady Jaiveri, the gardens are indeed lovely, but it is night now. May we persuade to stay with us at the table?"
Javieri looks uncertain, glancing at the door where Brand departed. Well, the worst seems to be gone. "Well...all right," she smiles a bit shyly, feeling out of place somewhat. "I apologize for my lack of conversation, I really don't know much about Amber as of yet." And she sits back down with a glance at Fiona. "But the food is wonderful, indeed."
Fiona smiles her thanks. Richard says "Flavel here has probably spent the most time in Amber of our generation, who are currently at this table anyway." He looks at Flavel "How would you describe Amber, Flavel, to one new to it?"
Possessing a slight grin, Flavel slowly turns his head towards Richard, "At first glance, overwelming. On reflection, overwelming. Like any place, it's the sum of it's people. Only the people here are unlike any in shadow. Is it much different in the Courts of Chaos?" Flavel's blue eye twitches briefly as he says the last.
Richard smiles "A little more orderly perhaps. It is a strange twist that Amberites, children of Order, are often chaotic by Chaos standards, and Chaosians are more orderly by Amber standards. The Courts are larger perhaps and comprise many families so order may be more necessary."
Flavel nods. With an act of supreme discipline he refrains from asking further questions on the topic and instead takes a sip of water. Further queries would only serve to expose his ignorance on the subject and there seems to be a certain level of knowledge here that is taken for granted. Maybe the library contains entries on this subject? If Amber's opposite number is so lightly bandied about in conversation some reference to it must exist.
Emma, however, shows no such restraint. She has, after all, been invited to ask questions, and even if she has been disheartened to see her father leave, she gives no sign of it as she looks across to Richard and down the table toward Fiona, who seem, she has clearly decided, to be the most communicative.
"So although the two place are like ... " she considers for a moment ... "polar opposites, you are nevertheless one good terms? Well, you must be, if Farve is from here, and yet has a family in Chaos."
Richard replies gently "The one you know as Farve is more commonly known as Brand here. As for relations between the two poles, they are generally tense. Sometimes less so. Sometimes more so. Various treaties usually keep the peace though."
Emma smiles at Winter, "Are you from Chaos too? Or were you Shadow born as well, like us?
Winter glanced over at her sister and raised a curious eyebrow. "I suspect I have come from Shadow. I've only heard of this Chaos… whatever that might be… briefly while reading father's journals."
"I must say," Emma goes on, helping herself to another serving of asparagus, "Farve does seem to have been much more of a family man than we ever realised.
Richard's eyes become masked briefly then the moment passes and he again becomes the attentive guest as Emma continues.
Emma continues, “I do think it delightful when one discovers something new about ones nearest and hopefully dearest, don't you?"
She lifts a spear to her lips, smiles at the gathering in her friendly way and adds, "The fact that they exist is a useful starting point, of course."
Fiona smiles briefly then addresses Winter "This must be a lot for you all at once, Winter. You seem to be faring well though."
A faint blush colored Winter’s pale features as she spoke. "Thank you, auntie. I endeavor to keep up."
In explanation, she addressed the others. "You must forgive me if I am not a skilled conversationalist in these matters. The majority of my years have been spent researching other subjects. Until today, I did not even know I had a family. In many ways, I am quite lost here.
"And with the exception of a few homunculi, who are very good companions to begin with, I have been alone for several decades. This is the first time I've been with people since the night I kil… that my other parents went away."
She returns to her soup, silently watching the group with intent watchfulness.
"Oh!" says Emma, appalled. "You poor, poor thing! You must have been so lonely! Why, I don't know how I'd survive without Clovis to tease and to provoke me ... "
Impulsively, she gets up from the table and moves swiftly round to where Winter was sitting, then slips an encouraging arm around her and hugs her.
"But now you'll have me and Clovis, as well as Richard ... and Father."
She slips her arm away and moves back to her seat.
"You'll never have to be so lonely again," she promises.
"I had my books and plants to keep me company," Winter said in response. She flinched ever-so-slightly as she was hugged, obviously unused to displays of affection. If anything, she appeared as if she believed Emma would hit her. After recognizing the fondness for what it was, she relaxed. "But thank you for your support, my sister."
Clovis looks at Winter. "What my sister says goes for me too, my lady. We have both of us known a time when we were lost and friendless. But we had each other ... and now we have you ... and Richard too."
He lifts his wine in a silent toast to her, and drinks.
Flavel smiles back at Ema. "What a curious name, Farve. Like many names it's has a meaning in another language. Farve especially special in that it possesses two meanings."
"Does it?" says Emma, fascinated. "Goodness. What does it mean?
"Actually, Farve wasn't his name. He was Brand when we were growing up too, although most people called him Lord Barimen. Lord Barimen of Blythe.
"We called him Farve when we were littlies. Short for father. He seemed to prefer it to Papa, although we always called Mother Mama."
She looks up and across the table at Richard and Winter, as though about to ask them a question ... and then pauses. Perhaps something in their expressions suggests that they wouldn't welcome a discussion on their pet names for Brand.
Instead she turns again to Flavel and smiles. "So what does the word mean? I do hope we haven't been unintentionally insulting him all these years. Although Farve ... Father might have found that amusing - like the time when we swopped clothes to go to a children's party in Blythe. I went as the Prince, and Clovis as the fairy princess. Mama wanted Farve to whip us, but he just laughed till he cried."
Flavel shrugs. "It's probably one of those strange coincidences that we happen upon from time to time. Take any word and you can find another meaning for it somewhere. There's a small European country called Denmark on the shadow Earth that so many of us have visited. In the Danish language Farve simply means color, or... it can mean...stain."
Well, Father is certainly colourful," agrees Clovis, with a grin. "At least ... in Blythe ... "
He surveys his newfound siblings thoughtfully, then reaches for his wine and takes a long, slow sip.
"Of course," he adds, "That may not be an impression that is as universal as Em and I believed. Call me paranoid, if you must, but I'm beginning to feel that some of the people here possibly harbour ambiguous feelings about our father.
"Do feel free to reassure me," he invites.
Flavel grins like a cheshire cat in reply. Taking another sip of water (his wine remaining untouched) he says, "Opinions of people vary within any audience."
"I see," says Clovis. "Well, I'd count that as reassurance - that my feelings are not the result of paranoia.
"What is this delicious fish, by the way? Is it local to the region, or is it something utterly commonplace and the secret is in the sauce?
"The secret, I find, is generally in the sauce," he added, looking thoughtfuilly at Flavel.
/Yes, just like the devil is often in the details./ Flavel reflects.
Glancing at the fish, he closes his eyes briefly. As he reopens his eyes his speech in subtly changed. As if he was speaking as an instructor. "The Fish is a Pagrus auratus. Commonly known as a Pink Snapper. Scientifically speaking, pink snapper are not actually "snapper" at all. Like many other species, the fish inherited its name from the northern species it most closely resembles. It is now considered to be the same species as the Red Sea Bream. I-", his voice falters momentarily and when he speaks again its with his normal modulation, "I believe the sauce is a concoction of Ginger Ponzu. Though I might be mistaken. You may find many flavors appear...enhanced in the kingdom of Amber."
"Fascinating," murmurs Clovis. "D'you also have recommendations on alternative recipes, or d'you stick to the zoological rather than the gastronomic side of things?"
He tasted another sliver of the fish.
"Ginger ... yes. I thought I was detecting an underlying spice. Subtle ... but present. Designed to heighten our ... awareness.
"I suspect," he added, "that flavours may not be the only thing enhanced in Amber."
Flavel replies, "I tend not to stick to one area for very long. You could say I specialize in generalities. As to additional recipes, it would be most difficult to recommend something without knowing the...tastes of the recipient. Anything in particular you had in mind?"
"I like ginger," said Emma looking up with wide hazel eyes. "Oh, Clovis, do you remember when that short-sighted old priest came to tea with Mama and Farve on Blythe, and we replaced the sugar lumps with crystallised ginger? He stirred and stirred ... but was too polite to say anything ... even when he drank the tea."
Her lips curved up into a reminescent smile.
"Of course, that was before ... "
"I hardly think our family will be interested in that," says Clovis smoothly.
"As for recipes ... Emma is probably more interested than I - but I would be fascinated to learn what dishes are particularly enjoyed here in Amber. And how great a variety is deemed acceptable for any one meal."
Clovis surveyed the table, and an echo of Emma's smile appeared to touch his lips. "I dote on variety," he said.
Flavel shrugs eloquently, "The climate here is temperate. Fruits tend to be apples, not oranges. Same goes for other foods. It's hard to get Kangaroo meat, but deer, and elk are plentiful enough. The trade with nearby Golden Circle Kingdoms complicates this somewhat. They are nearby geographically but technically of other dimensions whose climates can vary significantly. Routes to and from these kingdoms are well established and trade is brisk. Factor in the occasional green house and the use of magic and what you find on the dinner table can be quite diverse. Unless you dine at Julian's table which can be even more entertaining. Ever had braised Hydra tongues teryaki?"
Emma's brow crinkles thoughtfully. "I think we had braised Hydra tongues in Kalkamos, Clovis, that evening in the port when we met that really beautiful bosun .... oh, what was his name?
"But I don't think they were teryaki, were they? I remember they were totally scrumptious and we sent five gold coins to the chef ... and he followed us all down the road sobbing with gratitude."
She looks around apologetically at the rest.
"We are utterly ‘awful’ with exchange rates."
"I have discovered a universal truth," says Clovis cheerfully, "that one rarely gets bad service by over-tipping. A reputation for under-tipping, on the other hand, can result in surly waiters, hairs in food and tables far too close to the latrines for dining to be a wholly pleasurable experience.
"Em, darling, you are shatter-brained. What we had that night was hyena's tails, not hydra's tongues. And they were served in a rather delicious goulash, as I recall. Hydra's tongues are a pleasure we still have to look forward to. “
"I do love discovering there are undiscovered pleasures awaiting me," he adds happily. "D'you think Julian will invite us to dinner?"
Flavel says, "Possibly. Work with him hunting a monster or two and I imagine you'll have an interesting culinary experience. He's quite the ranger you know. Always tracking and hunting in the Arden Forest, which is very near to Amber. He was most upset by Duncan's death."
"Emma's the huntress," responds Clovis. "She's a bruising rider ... she'll throw her heart over any fence and then the horse can follow."
He eats a mouthful more of fish, then lowers his fork to his plate.
"I'm sure we too would be most upset by Duncan's death if we knew more of him other than the fact that he was our brother and has recently died," he says. "One hates to seem unduly inquisitive - but ... how did he die?"
Flavel shakes his head slowly, "Sorry, I wasn't there. I've heard vague speculations but I have nothing factual. There is a possiblity of another Amberite involved with his death, and there have been a number of attempts on the lives of our peer group. Specifically third generation royalty. It has a lot of people uptight."
Clovis shoots a swift glance at his twin.
"But how kind of Farve to have brought us to such an exciting environment," he says softly. "He knows that we find ennui the most deadly weight on our lives. Clearly he has decided to pique our interest.
"Do tell, Cousin Flavel, what form these attempts have taken, so that we can protect ourselves. Or ... ah ... is the fun meant to lie in discovering our danger for ourselves?"
Flavel's face contorts briefly as if he was trying to decide whether to smirk, frown, grin, or something else entirely. "Luckily for the both of you we only have bits and pieces of information." He covers his hesitation by taking another sip from his water glass. "I should not be giving this briefing. There are others better informed. But for the record, one manifestation that I have seen involves an oily black tornado. A skeletal arm emerged from it and sorely wounded Salome. Salome being another of our cousins. She was recovering last I had seen of her. The disturbing thing about this was the vortex manifested in a Golden Circle Kingdom. These kingdoms are close to the true reality of Amber. It would take a serious amount of power to project something like that so near to Amber. One possi- ", Flavel cuts himself momentarily and clears his throat. "I'm not going to burden everyone with conjectures at this point. We do have leads that many of us are in the process of running down. We even have a suspect who I understand may have recently been captured by Amber. This is unconfirmed."
For the time being, Winter had lost herself in the matter of eating. She'd never been a cook, leaving that to the specters that haunted her island. Nor did she really trouble herself with `enjoying' food. When one sat in front of an easel for 43 hours stretches, food was just something to keep you going. So, with all this conversation on recipes, she'd tuned out to mull over other thoughts.
However, at Flavel's words Winter's interest returned in full. Black tornadoes, skeletal arms, and maiming. Now THAT was something she could sink her teeth into!
Emma's eyes were wide.
"Poor Salome," she exclaimed, sparing a swift smile of gratitude for the servant replacing the fish course with long iced green goblets of mint sorbet to clear the palate "We'vew never seen anything like a black tornado, have we Clovis?
"No," says Clovis, a certain dryness apparent in his voice. "Our enemies have usually assumed a passably human shape."
Emma says, "Is Salome here? Can you meet here? And who is this suspect?"
She lifted her head from the goblet, the spoon raised to her softly curving lips, and smiled ruefully. "So many questions ...
"But we too have known danger ... And would wish to avoid a recurrence. "
Clovis reaches out towards his twin and lays his hand protectively over hers. His face is grave - the good humour that lit it up earlier seems quenched.
"Don't worry," he says. "You have me ... and Farve. Not to mention the new family we are meeting here. Surely - in our unity lies our strength?"
As the waiter takes away his untouched plate, Flavel idly plays with a spoon. "Many of us have united in these times. The fact that you arer here as opposed to elsewhere is additional evidence of this. It's unfortunate that so many of us are new to the Court of Amber. There is much to learn, and I'm not certain how much can be discerned before events carry us forward. I've met nearly a dozen new relatives in the last 3 days. They carry with them a varying degree of culture and experience. I think you two will do well here."
Realizing he's toying with his spoon he sets it down carefully on the table. "Incidently, contrary to Richard's previous statement, I'm not a veteran of Amber politics. I spent maybe 18 months all told in Amber and this was well over a half century ago. Aside from brief visits where my presence was required here, I have been away in shadow."
Emma looks at him wide-eyed. "A long time ago indeed!" she says. She glances at Clovis, then says a little shyly, "Is it permitted to ask ... how old you are? I ... I had taken you for not so very much older than us."
Winter leaned forward, listening carefully. With a faint cough to betray her presence, she said, "No, Flavel. Please go on. Conjecture is a wonderful thing to be shared with others. Perhaps listening to your words can help us unravel the truth. I am sure your observations have great baring in this."
Her eyes burned behind the wire-frame of her glasses. It was as if she were a new woman, erasing the timid creature she was upon arriving in the dining chamber.
Flavel turns to Winter steepling his fingers as he does so. "Conjectures are not fact. One possibility I entertain is there is a...presence that is pushing against our reality that seeks to gain entrance. The black tornado being one manifestation of it, a gateway if you will. It's methods are maleveant but it's purpose is unknown. Why it's singling out third generation royalty is a clue. Is it somebody in particular this presence is looking for or is it aiming for the perceived weakest links? Also, I am suspicious of it's ability to enter into Golden Circle realms without some sort of aid. Reality is very strong in those realms as they are near to Amber. It takes a strong will to play with the stuff of shadow in these areas. To project a gateway so close to the true reality of Amber with such force would require an unearthly power or some sort of aid is required to help the gateway come into being...from both ends as it were."
Flavel's mind recalls Kit's words, /My horse want's to run/, and her strong desire to see a vortex. Pondering these memoiries he looks over those present and with a smile whispers, "We could set a trap."
“A trap?" breathed Emma, her eyes wide. "Set by all of us? What do you have in mind? How can we help?"
Clovis said nothing, although he smiled slightly ... and nodded in support of his twin.
Richard frowns slightly and looks at Fiona. She gives a small shrug and he turns back to the table and begins speaking.
"I would strongly advise learning more before you proceed. The vortex has not only manifested at this end of creation and more things have come from it than skeletal arms. There have been creatures to match any of us and they are not always alone in number."
He pauses then continues "I am young by Chaos standards, a mere few centuries, but even I have learned not to underestimate the enemy. There are also discrepancies that lead me to believe we are dealing with two separate forces. One of which seeks entrance, the other attacking our generation. As to the possible assailant, he is currently awaiting questioning since I brought him into custody. He may represent a third faction in all of this."
Richard smiles then and it only too clear whose son he is. The twins both remember happier days with Farve. Richard says quietly "However, there are more immediate matters. Vianey, Jaiveri, I know both of you must have questions by now. Clovis, Emma, Winter, I am relatively unused to Amber, but please if I may assist you in finding your feet, don't hesitate to ask."
Winter smiled tenderly at her brother and nodded. "Of course, brother. Thank you for your offer. If I have any questions, I'm sure I can find you. And if you wish to speak with me, with the exception of a trip to the gardens tomorrow morning, I suspect I shall be in my chambers. I have so many faces to add to my Trump deck that I suspect I shall be there for quite some time."
Emma looks up in delight. "Oh Winter! Can you draw those lovely trumps? How is it done? May I watch sometime? I would so like to see ... "
Winter dabbed her lips with a napkin and pushed her half-full plate away. "If there is any more talk of this `trap' my dear cousin mentioned, I would greatly appreciate being allowed to listen in on such a conversation. I find all of this so delightfully intriguing."
Her gaze drifted across the table to consider the twins. If a trap were to be set, it would require bait. At least she knew a candidate for that particular role. She smiled again at Emma and nodded her head in `sisterly' affection.
Emma smiles back warmly and impulsively stretches out a hand towards her. "I have always wanted a sister!" she confesses.
For a moment, Winter regarded Emma's proffered hand with distinct curiosity. She adjusted her glasses as if to get a better look. Finally, she took it in her own hand and squeezed lightly. "Umm… indeed. Yes. I should love the company while I work. Besides, it will allow me to have you to refer to. As for how the process is done, it would take far too long to explain. I've been doing it for just over one hundred years and I am still learning more each and every day."
Emma returned the squeeze with slightly more pressure, and her open friendly smile. "That would be lovely. And such fun to see my image taking shape too ... Do you think I would ever be able to learn to create trumps? I'm not really a terribly good artist. We had a drawing master on Blythe ... and Clovis and I teased him dreadfully. So much so that he complained to Farve ... but Farve took our side. He gave commands ... "
She reaches for the water jug and pours herself a long cool goblet of crystal clear water.
"Perhaps I'll be better now that I'm older," she concludes with a brilliant smile.
"Perhaps," Winter said, "Anything is possible. I learned the talent on my own, so I am not entirely sure I would make the best teacher. Everything I know came from pure instinct. Father, now he would be able to help you I'm certain. I used his notes as a guide. His observations on the subject are quite illuminating."
She released Emma's hand, and sat back into her chair to concentrate on the conversation pertaining to the vortex.
Emma says, "And Richard, it is so sweet of you to offer to help. I'm afraid we might make the most appalling gaffes until we find our feet here in Amber. Clovis, d'you remember that Shadow ... the one where nodding your head meant 'no' and shaking it meant 'yes'? It wasn't so much that neither of us wanted to go to bed with that smelly old cobbler," she explains to the table, "although that was a consideration of course. But trying to escape marriage was even more difficult when neither of us had a bean to pay our fine with!
"And it literally was beans," she adds reminescently. "The fact that we were travelling with gold in our pockets was irrelevant ... whereas a lack of dried beans in our purses meant we were impoverished ... Oh Clovis, do you think we will ever go back there?"
"Not unless we want our heads removed from our shoulders," responds Clovis. "We were hardly the two most popular people around when we left ... "
He glances at the stern figure of Richard.
"I can see the need for caution," he says, "although I don't much fancy the idea of being a target ... and certainly not of Emma being in that position. I would be interested in joining with you if you would permit when you question this ... suspect. I have assisted at interrogations before."
Flavel smiles at Winter. "I was merely conjecturing, and tossing ideas around at the request of those present. As the educated Prince Richard has made plain, we need to investigate this matter thoroughly and not make the mistake of underestimating our opponents."
Picking up his crystal water glass, he casually studies a nearby candle flame through the crystal. "In the meantime it may prove most illuminating to see who becomes the next casualty in this affair."
Was there anything particular about the people it has attacked," Winter asked with genuine interest. "Maybe they had something in common which compelled this thing to choose them as a victim. If there is a correlation, then perhaps we could determine who will be the next most likely candidate."
"Gruesomest," murmurs Emma. "I can't say I'm utterly in love with the idea of sitting around watching each other to see who sticks their spoon in the wall first ... "
"Pish," Winter chuckled. "Such a thing would provide us with great insight. Better one or two perish than the rest of us. At least their passing would not be in vain."
Winter paused, her smile faltering. "Of course, it would be preferable to accomplish our goals without further casualties."
"Well, absolutely," responds Emma, veiling her hazel eyes with her long lashes. "Nor would I really care to be one of those by whose passing great insight is given. After all, I do look so fetching in black. It would be a shame to waste on those who would only look sallow."
Fiona turns to Clovis and says "In answer to your question, our family are known as Amberites and we rule Amber. My father, your grandfather, is King Oberon. Amber itself is one of the two centres of Reality, the Courts of Chaos being the other."
"I see," responds Clovis politely. "And will we be presented to his Majesty at some point?"
He reaches across the table helps himself to a plump peach, then begins to carefully slice it into glistening pink and gold segments. "Or perhaps we are making an assumption here that we will be staying long enough to meet our grandfather, whereas we should rise at the end of our visit, thank you politely like well-brought up children, and promptly return whence we came.
"Being, of course, well-brought up, Em and I can do that with aplomb should it prove necessary. Nevertheless, the conversation here has suggested that we might be in a position of some danger. And while there's a certain fascination in the idea of a black vortex manifesting itself in our service flat and disgorging monsters ... oh, goodie - it might finally be an excuse to smash that hideous Delft shepherdess that has been my waking nightmare for the last two years ... I cannot help but feel that defenses will be better in Amber.
"To say nothing of wishing to be present for my brother's funeral," he adds. "One doesn't wish to sound as though one wished to hurry to such a melancholy occasion - but do we know when it will be?"
Richard answers "The vortexes we have seen so far in Chaos seem to display a different behaviour. They last briefly and deposit creatures. They may also come in pairs. The monsters just attack whoever comes near them. That's one of the reasons I think they are or have been disparate from whoever is targetting our generation. The attack on Salome though throws this into doubt. I heard Genni had been investigating the vortexes though I haven't heard anything of that yet."
"Jenny?" says Clovis, looking a little startled. "Oh ... another cousin, I suppose. Darling Winter ... when you make our trumps, perhaps we could prevail on your artistic skills to add a family tree? I mean ... it will be so embarrassing to be introduced to someone and not realise we were meant to adore them madly, or alternatively have a companionable drink with someone, and then discover we were meant to be scorning them utterly because their father behaved very badly over our favourite cousin's mother's Will, and totally refused to give up the best silver teapot.
The young Winter appeared to consider the words of both her brothers. Her strangely shaped hand came to rest on the tablecloth, the long fingers tapping as she spoke. "I believe dear Clovis, you have provided me with an excellent idea. However, I would be forced to return to my Shadow to fulfill it. A Trump construct of our family line would be quite useful I think."
She grinned at her idea, obviously pleased with herself. "However, until that time, I will endeavor to create a more simple facsimile. That is once I actually learn who I happen to be related to. The documentation on Oberon's line is rather… lacking in some regards. Also, our generation appears to require continuous editing."
She turned her eyes to Flavel and Richard, "Perhaps one of you could assist me in properly documenting the family line, or point me in the proper direction?"
Flavel shakes his head, "I have extensive notes but they are sixty years out of date. I can think of a few people who could give you current information. By current I mean with something nearing 80% accuracy, not counting relatives unknown or recently emerging. Talk with Lord Rein, he's first and fore most a bard, I believe he sometimes doubles as the official herald of Amber. He's a knight by deed so his honorific is Sir. For unofficial heresay I would recommend you speak with Droppa Ma Pantz. He has a good line of information but it's veracity can vary. Bring wine. To get a handle of current residents that Rein or Ma Pantz might have missed you would want to speak to the castle stewards. Though they are often busy such that they have little time for chit-chat."
"Surely documenting the family tree might prove a slightly more weighty matter than mere chitchat," says Clovis thoughtfully. "I might be taking something of a wild leap into the dark on this one, but I'm assuming our family is of no small importance here in Amber. The trappings of this room ... the exquisite meal of which we've partaken ... details even such as the clothes you all wear - and I hesitate to draw attention to this, as Em and I are just cringingly aware that we failed to dress for the occasion.
"There's also the fact that one doesn't wipe out families of peasants. Ah ... let me rephrase that. Of course, one does wipe out whole families of peasants, villages, towns ... whatever is deemed necessary. But that is wholesale slaughter and therefore quite acceptable in terms of warfare, or so my more militaristic acquaintances have always led me to believe.
"Whereas this ... targetting of our number ... does suggest that someone or something has deemed us worthy of being picked off one by one. Rather like a song I once heard ... And then there were none.
"Fortunately, however, that appears to be rather far from being the case with us ... At the moment."
Clovis says, "One does so want to be au fait with the whole thing."
"Yes," says Clovis. "Well. That is indeed one theory. I have rather favoured a ... er ... rather more direct form of approach myself. And I've never fancied dying with the words, 'I see now! All the time it was .... argh!' on my lips."
Richard smiles slightly "Not the best way to exit, no." He looks at Flavel, something akin to approval in his blue eyes and continues "After the funeral and treaty negotiations, I will be returning to Chaos. You are welcome to return with me to visit if you should so choose."
With elaborate care Flavel returns his crystal glass to the table. It's obvious he is weighing Richard's proposal. "Your offer is most kind," he states with measured slowness.
Returning his voice to it's normal crispness he continues, "Unfortunately events are such that I cannot presently accept. King Oberon has placed me on a research team that would most likely preclude my undertaking such a lengthy journey. Maybe latter when events have resolved themselves to the King's satisfaction I might be able to contact you? The idea of visiting the courts is one I find most intriguing. But you must understand that these are not normal times, and I find myself burdened with the commitments of a Prince of Amber."
Richard smiles and replies "and I with the commitments of a Head of a House Major. I understand. The invitation stands open to you, Flavel, whenever you have the chance to accept it. You would, I think, find the Courts most interesting."
Clovis looks amused.
"Now that," he says, "strikes me as a rather ambiguous offer. One moment we are discussing the risks to those of our generation - and our cousin is advocating a policy of 'wait and see', and the next you are inviting him to visit the incredibly dangerous place you inhabit - for such is my concept of Chaos. Parhsps I'm wrong, and the place is filled with little old ladies sipping tea with their priests - of whatever faith they choose to adorn. If so, I tender my apologies.
"Nevertheless, although I'm sure you are a perfectly delightful chap who has never entertained a treacherous thought for an instant - well, after all, you are our brother and clearly the soundest of individuals - nevertheless, I do have to ask myself - wouldn't a journey into Chaos be the perfect place to dispose of any kin that a mysterious someone has decided has just decided has become surplus to requirements?"
Richard laughs softly "I suppose it would at that. Chaos and Amber are different in their own ways and as dangerous as each. It just depends on whom one knows."
"Besides, Richard has shown remarkable faith to journey here as a Lord of Chaos. It would be the least we could do to return the favor some day. I think many a war and misunderstanding could be avoided if we strive to maintain ties with our neighbors.
"It does rather seem to me," murmurs Clovis, "as though Farve has been somewhat unexpectedly ... ah ... eager to cement good relations between Amber and Chaos. As Em and I are learning."
Flavel adds, “Speaking of neighbors, have you ever met a person named Matt in the courts?"
Clovis helps himself to some more wine and listens with interest to the response.
Richard shakes his head, his expression thoughtful "The name is not familiar. What does he look like?"
Flavel shrugs, and describes him as he briefly saw him sans cybernetics. "He referred to himself as Matt. I was curious if somebody from the Courts had gone missing that fit his description."
Fiona smiles slightly and says "I think, Emma and Winter, you would do well in meeting your Aunt Flora."
"Flora," Winter repeated with a nod. While she was not entirely pleased that she would have to continue sharing more time with her sister, the thought of gaining further knowledge about the family was more than worth the effort. Besides, Emma's manner had begun to grow on Winter—in a fungus sort of way.
"Very well," she said. She motioned to a serving girl, "My dear. Would you contact Lady Flora and tell her we wish to meet with her. I'm sure we can have tea in my chambers later on, if she so chooses. Once the arrangements are complete, return to us her and inform us of her decision. Thank you for your assistance."
She leaned into the table, arms crossed before her. `Is there anything I should know about Flora before I meet with her, Aunt Fiona?"
Emma glances at her newfound sister with a sort of amused admiration.
"How brave you are, Winter! I would never dare issue an invitation to an aunt ... I would tend to wait meekly until bidden into her presence.
"Unless I knew her well," she said, helping herself to a firm green pear. "And if Aunt Flora can advise on clothes and ettiquette, then I will certainly make an effort to cultivate her.
"And utterly sweet of you, Aunt Fiona, to have rooms prepared for us! Coals of fire for not arriving properly, that's what we deserve. But ... one thing ... are we close together? You may think us foolish - but Clovis and I have so rarely been separated ...."
Fiona smiled "I have arranged a suite for you to share." As the coffee is served, the maid returns and says to Winter "Princess Flora has given orders that she is not to be disturbed, your Highness." The young woman then withdraws as Fiona says "The hour is late indeed. Tomorrow afternoon may be a better time to speak to Flora."
"Indeed," replies Clovis. "Shall we withdraw? I'm afraid I'm not terribly familiar with the customs here ... Do the ladies generally leave us to enjoy port and brandy ... or is Amber fearfully modern in ettiquette, and we all stay together?
"For mutual protection, if nothing else," he adds drily.
Fiona replies wryly "We generally all stay together and follow the customs of the host. In my case, after coffee, I will have you all shown to your new rooms so that you may settle in and get some sleep."
"That does seem a good plan," responds Emma. She looks at her twin mischeviously. "In our cases - it has been a rather unexpected end to a l-o-n-g day. But wholly delightful," she adds hastily. Then her gaze rests upon Richard and Winter and she smiles. "Especially the chance to meet so many new relatives ... siblings even."
Her voice is warm and soft, almost like a purr of pleasure.
"I can't think why Farve didn't introduce us all ages ago. That would have been such fun! But perhaps he thought it would be more amusing for us now." Her mouth droops slightly. "I'm only sorry it was too late for us to meet poor Duncan."
She takes up the coffee cup wistfully and sips.
"Oh, aunt! Utter joy - surely this is Java?"
Clovis regards her with rueful amusement.
"My sister's a devoted coffee lover - her choice of Shadows has long been dictated by their preferred method of serving caffeine ... "
He glances across the table at Richard. "If our sisters are to become involved in discussions of fashions and ettiquette tomorrow, might it be possible for you and I to talk similarly? There are, perhaps, matters that we should discuss."
Winter was busy trying to hide her disappointment at Flora declining a brief discussion. She spoke briefly with a servant to fetch her some green tea, paying faint attention to the continued discussion. However, when Clovis mentioned his assumption of her plans the following day, her eyes shifted back to those present at the table.
"I hardly think I will be discussing fashions, dear brother," she said in a flat voice. "I would sooner have my fingers scrubbed with lye than talk about such frivolous subjects. Do you assume that because I am a woman, I would only engage myself in talk of dresses and courtiers? In fact, after my meeting about family politics, I will, with any luck, be doing a spot of hunting. Nothing clears the mind better than a touch of bloodsport."
She sipped her tea, sniffing indignantly. "Fashions, indeed."
Emma's eyes lit up.
"Oh Winter!" she said eagerly. "Do you hunt too? How perfectly delightful! Clovis has never been inclined to cut a figure on the hunting field, depite the fact that he looks utterly devastating in red. But he abhors getting up at five in the morning to ride out just - as he says - to tumble off into a ditch and come home all mud to one's eyebrows! Faugh - as though one cared a jot for such things when the hounds are in full cry and streaking like an arrowhead across the hill!"
She sipped at her coffee.
"We had a perfectly thrilling run about a year back. We were in a place called ... oh, what was it's name? I canm't remember. But the Master of Hounds came to dine with the people we were staying with, and invited us to go the following day. Clovis - the wretch! - declared he had sprained his thumb over-exerting himself playing popular songs on the piano before dinner and would be totally unable to ride. You can imagine what a poor creature the Master thought him!
"But I went, and had a perfectly glorious day. We found in a copse called Longbottom Acre, just below the Throckmorton Woods. And then ... we were away! Up through Huggett's Bottom and then a glorious gallop towards Tricklepenny Acre ... "
"Em," said Clovis equably, "do shut up."
He smiled across at Winter.
Clovis says, "One has to be rather brutal, I find, when Em gets on to the subject of 'great runs I have known'. She's a bruising rider to hounds, which is no doubt excellent in its way, and will doubtless prove an excellent asset if we ever receive the fabulous telegraph 'Fly; all is discovered'. But she has to be firmly prevented from reliving them all again afterwards in tedious detail. By force, sometimes."
He grinned at his twin.
Fortunately for Winter, her thick spectacles and the dim lighting prevented any from really seeing her eyes. As Emma droned on about… whatever… she could not help but let her eyes glaze over in almost feline boredom. Suddenly the dust motes dancing on the thermals of the candles became utterly intriguing; at least for the moment. An instant passed where she honestly considered driving her desert fork through the back of her left hand, if only to be a distraction from Emma's banal chatter. Remembrance of her Trump project, the necessity of a functional hand there in, prevented her from committing an untoward damage to herself. Thankfully, Clovis rescued her.
His sharp tongue broke through the haze fogging her mind. She smiled pleasantly, thankfully, at her half brother. It took her a moment to remember the core of the subject being discussed… oh yes… hunting.
Her head turned as she spoke. "I've never ridden a horse during a hunt, actually. The island was far too small for such a large creature. Most of my hunting was done on foot or paw. I prefer the more intimate interaction of predator and prey. Why allows the hounds to have all the fun?
"Although, I do enjoy falconry as well, but more for watching them fly than the sport of it."
Flavel smiles tightly in the direction of Brand's prodigy. Privately he wonders at their antics. Something like Dobermans at play he reflects. Wild, viscious, cunning, and oh so dangerous. Paying lip service to civilized airs and all the time palming the host's steak knifes up their sleeves. Brand has loosed quite a group in the castle. It should prove interesting to see the full ramifications. One thing is certain, the survival patterns in use will need to be increased. The sharks have come circling and they smell blood...and to believe that Richard would think his invitation would be accepted. Might as well accept a lollipop from Hades.
His thoughts continue in this vein for a time before he turns to his mother, "If there is time after dinner I need speak with you a moment."
Fiona nods, her own attention on the siblings, and says "Yes, there will be time for you, Flavel."
Richard nods "Tomorrow afternoon would seem a good time for us to meet and discuss such matters."
"Then, by your leave, we shall withdraw for the night," responds Clovis, rising gracefully. "Em, shall we go?"
He offers his arm to his sister the turns and bows towards Fiona.
"Our thanks for a wholly delightful meal. May we trespass on your kindness yet again and ask for a servant to escort us to our rooms?"
He glances across the table at Winter and smiles suddenly. "Unless, of course, our sister is able to escort us."
Winter shook her head, "I arrived early this morning. In truth, I hardly know the route back to my own room, let alone anyone else's. Now the library, that I can find."
A faint smile curled her lips.
"We can explore together then," said Emma, with the air of one offering a great treat. "That is ... if you want to ... "
She looked at Winter like a hopeful puppy.
"Umm…yes," Winter relented. "Of course. We shall make a game of it."
Besides, Winter thought, if we are caught anywhere that might raise suspicions or anger, I can always blame it on my exuberant sibling.
The dinner winds to a close as the last coffee is sipped. Fiona nods to a waiting servant and says "And now it is time for you all to rest. Tomorrow will indeed be a busy day. James here will make sure you all get to your quarters." He nods and waits patiently for Winter, Clovis and Emma to follow him.
"Thank you, Aunt," says Emma demurely, dropping a small, neat curtsey. She slips her arm through Clovis', and together they follow the servant (presumably with Winter).
Richard also rise smoothly and nods to Fiona "As ever, Fiona, your hospitality has been of both interest." He moves down the table to wait for Vianey and Jaiveri to join him, saying "Ladies, if you would like, I will escort you both back to your chambers."
Vianey smiles at everyone. "Thank you for a lovely dinner. It was very... enlightening." She then turns to Richard. "I would be honored if you would escort us. Unless you have something else to attend to, in which case I'm sure Jaiveri and I can find our way back."
Javieri nods her agreement mutely, her eyes flickering briefly to Fiona at which she inclines her head in gratitude.
Flavel gets to his feet seeing that company is departing, "It was a pleasure meeting each of you. I hope we can do this again sometime."
Richard nods "It was indeed a pleasure to meet you, Flavel. I'm sure over the coming few days we will dine together again."
"Indeed," responds Clovis, with a slight graceful bow. "It has been most enjoyable for us too - thanks to your mother's hospitality and your own kind welcome. I look forward to our next meeting ... and returning the hospitality soon.
"We love parties," he adds simply, before he too leaves the room.
Winter brushed off her dress, then took Flavel's hand. "It was a pleasure meeting with you as well. At some point I would like to meet with you. Perhaps we can speak more at length about things here. You seem to possess an intuitive mind and I would like to learn your perception on certain matters.
"However, until then, good night and well met."
Flavel nods in return. "Good night Princess Winter."
He muses, /For a fratricidal maniac her manners are as fine as frog's hair. Perhaps she could teach me more then I could ever instruct her./
Fiona nods in return, a small smile touching her lips. Richard smiles and replies "It will be my honour to do so, ladies." With that, he escorts them to their rooms. He smiles "Sleep well. We'll see how the gardens fare tomorrow and hopefully get the time to talk." He gives a small bow then leaves Vianey and Jaiveri to their rest.