The whole affair is just fabulous! Everything has come together, despite the delay with my special delivery of Ferrero Roche from Shadow Earth. I just couldn't resist them! I hope the guests are appreciative.
Seel is wonderful as ever. A charmer of the worst degree and I love it. The ladies are besotted with him, enthralled and they just can't hear enough of his wonderful voice – that accent! It reminds me so much of-
No…. It is not the night for memories of my past. Paris is far away for now.
I half listen to the nobleman who accompanies the two Ladies with Seel, my concentration slipping from the conversation and my eyes wandering around the room to see who is here. I see Mordred. It has been many years since I saw him last and again I have to force away the aching recollections, this time of that day at the edge of the Abyss.
Tonight is a strange mixture of pleasure and pain.
I turn at a burst of laughter from the two women. As if sensing my sad thoughts, Seel has plucked a drink from a waiter's tray and now holds it up to me. I raise my own glass, which is still half full, and click it against his when he offers a silent toast. We exchange a few more pleasantries with the group and drift from them, lazily flowing through the crowd towards the entrance. I want to check that everyone who is expected has indeed arrived. Lady Ranir's staff will of course look after this minor detail, but I wish to do so regardless. Perhaps I am curious to see who does not feel the need to show their charitable face to those who matter. More likely, it is my intrigue over Ariadne's arrival without my cousin Merlin by her side.
She is standing near the band. Her far away, thoughtful look is replaced by a flirtatious smile and blush when Mordred joins her. He takes her hand in his and brushes a kiss over the back. They both bow. It's all very formal – I don't think they know each other well, if at all. For a moment, I wonder where Ariadne bought that stunning necklace and want to join them so I may inquire, but I find my mind sliding away from the idea.
Where are my chocolates? I look around but cannot see the golden foil wrapped treasures on any of the serving platters circulating the room. Waving over a young waiter, I order him to get the treats and bring them to Lady Ariadne and Lord Mordred. The boy nods quickly and hurries away. I wonder what they will think of the little hazelnuts and crispy wafer coated in gorgeous creamy chocolate. My mouth waters at the thought!
Taking a sip of my wine – is it my third or fourth? – I smile at two young and handsome minor nobles in their navy and orange, precisely tailored suits. They look like brothers. I pass them, with just a brief, tantalising smile for a greeting, and move on, my hand still on Seel's arm. Their eyes follow me. I had forgotten how much fun this could be.
I can't believe Lord Rein is here! And wow, does he look good. Mmmm….he feels good too. I kiss him on both cheeks in greeting – my French flare for the night. "It is good to see you," I say quietly. It has been so long since we last met, with my work taking up so much of my time, and now Seel taking up many of my nights when I am in Amber.
Looking around at the décor, I nod in agreement. "Yes, the party is a little bigger than we expected, but it's good that so many are keen to help. Try the chocolates if you get a chance, I think you'll like them.” I hope the waiters have brought out more trays; there should be loads to go around. Still, if that's the only thing to go wrong tonight, I'll be happy.
Looking at both Corwin and Helena more closely, I can't help but admire the fine clothes they are wearing. She looks nervous though, poor thing. Wanting to help her relax I ask where she had her marvellous dress made. I really do want to know. I've never come across the style in Shadow, but I can't think where they would have gone in the Golden circle. Obviously, I've missed a new dressmaker setting up.
But wait! They must meet Seel. With a sweeping gesture, I introduce him, and he bows to them both.
"It is great pleasure to meet you. My Vayla," Seel's eyes flick to mine when he refers to me by my nickname, "has spoken of you on many an occasion."
I have no idea what it means and he knows it. He's such a tease, it wouldn't surprise me if the word was something that should only be uttered in the bedroom. Again, he glances at me and I meet his gaze. I can feel his energy and enthusiasm, it's electric. My skin tingles with excitement, my heart beats faster. I grin at him then look away to Lord Rein. Two can play at this game. I sense a shimmer of frustration through his passion and I know if it were possible, he would take me from this room right now, but he knows I must meet and greet, which gives me the ideal opportunity to tease him right back.
Helena is so delicate. She lacks the confidence to join in our conversation, the poor thing. It would seem Lord Rein is attracted to this fragile type, but he is a good man, and I am sure he will look after her tonight.
Out of the corner of my eye, I catch Ariadne grabbing some of my chocolates. I'm glad she's so keen to try them, but she is incredibly tense. I can't help wondering what's going on between her and Merlin – their relationship has always been stormy, but I thought he would attend tonight's party with her, regardless. As I ponder such things, I raise my glass to Mordred. It is good to see him again after so many years.
Seel's voice draws me back to the conversation and I catch Helena's blush as Seel turns his charms on her. I can't help but grin. Is he trying to get a rise from me?
"Even in the hostile sands," he says to her, "lovely flowers can grow, if only one knows where to look and how to tend to them. I have found that wonders emerge in many forms, in all of the lands I have travelled. I must admit though," he turns to me then, "that I doubt that marvels from anywhere else could compare to those that I have found here in your golden land."
You are sweetness itself my love. I squeeze his arm to show my appreciation for his declaration. And so our game continues, with its delightful twists and turns, switching from teasing one moment to affectionate words and gestures the next. I savour every moment with him. At first I listen as Seel starts to tell Rein of his origins and homeland. Others nearby start to gather, listening with rapture to his tales of adventure, but my mind drifts again. I have heard this tale many times and though I love hearing his voice – that wondrous accent! – I am distracted again, suddenly realising Lord Rein's entrance had distracted me from joining Ariadne and Mordred. Not that I'm complaining, I can't think of a nicer way to be sidetracked, but I want to ask her where she found that impressive necklace. Taking a glass of wine from the waiter, I slip away from the group and head towards Ariadne and Mordred.
Passing Lady Mirabelle, I glance at her and see she is starting to enjoy the band, as are several of the other guests. I also hear the names of new arrivals called out over the music. It is strange; I don't recall anyone tasked with such a role during the organisation. Perhaps it was a last minute arrangement.
"- What would you say for instance, to the organization of a multi-arts Touring group, bringing the best Amber has to offer to select locations in the Golden Realm?" I catch the end of Mordred's suggestion as I approach.
"Oh! What a lovely idea!" I can't help jumping in. A touring group! Excellent suggestion even if I do say so myself. Then I remember where we are and my role for the night. Quickly wanting to remedy my oversight, I rein in my enthusiasm as I formally greet them. "I'm so glad to see you here tonight, Mordred, Ariadne," I nod to each in turn. "I don't think we've been properly introduced in the past and I thank you for coming. Please, help yourselves to more chocolates. I hope you like them – they are a particular favourite of mine."
Ariadne appears to want more of the treats, but Mordred doesn't seem even to want to try them. Why pass up such an opportunity? They might never see these little delights again. Unless... I might be able to sort out a regular shipment to Amber... No! Silly! If I made them accessible, they wouldn't be so special, now would they. I take a sip of wine; it's really very good. Was I saying something? Oh yes!
I look up at Mordred.
"Where you thinking of anywhere in particular?" I ask him.
"Not any where specifically," he says, "as of yet - that is a large part of what I wished to discuss with the both of you, as the contacts that three of us can pool could bring us far more in the way of ideas and information than any of us alone."
Ariadne politely waited until I finished my introductions, but now the conversation moves back to discussion of the Arts she almost spills her drink in her eagerness to contribute.
I listen to Ariadne, considering her words for only the barest of moments before I respond for it is something I believe passionately in. Amber is the centre, but there is a vital flux of life in and out of it that cannot be denied. Without change, without new people or ideas infused into our lives we would stagnate. Interaction with the Golden circle, or indeed any Shadow, can only hope to enhance the Arts. And not just the Arts – all disciplines. Though in reality, this already occurs to some degree; why else have we commerce and trade with numerous worlds, bringing in food, supplies and materials that we cannot make here in Amber, and trading with goods which these places cannot produce themselves. The Arts should be no different.
I like Mordred's way of thinking, in this matter anyways, and ask him more about his plans for a tour. Will he also set up an academy for new talent he finds on such an endeavour? It would be a wonderful opportunity to snatch up any hopefuls before they get embroiled in the politics of their own companies. I can't help feeling, however, there might be more to this than he wants us to know, something other than his desire to bring the theatre to those who have never experienced such wonders. Perhaps I am paranoid, too much so, and only time will tell.
And how should I go about asking Ariadne about Merlin's notable absence? I don't want to upset her especially as she appears outwardly much happier now she is embroiled in a subject close to her heart. At least the topic seems important to her. I wonder how she knows Laughing Boy. I've never met him, but I have heard of him. Perhaps she will say more in due course, but I am distracted before I can consider her further by a peel of laughter from behind.
Turning to look I notice Seel has gathered quiet an audience, and it is one of the many ladies around him that could not contain her mirth any longer. He stands taller than most and exudes a confidence and relaxed air that would put even the most timid at ease.
I want him.
It has been a long time since I felt so strongly inclined for intimacy.
Quickly I turn back to Mordred and Ariande, not wanting the memories to surface during such a wonderful night. He would want me to enjoy this evening.
Mordred is telling more of his plan and it sounds a good one. During the conversation, he waves over a servant and whispers to them, giving me a reassuring, conspiratorial smile. I can't help but be intrigued and when the servant returns moments later with a tray, I turn my focus to the ruby red liquid glinting in the glasses. Taking one of drinks, I tilt it slightly, holding it up to the light and swilling it carefully. Then I bring it to my nose and sense the heady, rich and woody bouquet. Tasting a small amount, I breathe through my teeth and then swallow. It is very good. I have not tasted this vintage before and must congratulate Mordred on such a fine wine.
Ariadne seems also to like it. She is thoroughly enjoying both my and Mordred's offerings tonight, but I wonder how long her smile will last. Out of the corner of my eye, I see Merlin enter the room. At the same time, Mordred also sees him and signals to Ariadne.
My cousin is dishevelled, hassled looking and not attired at all appropriately for the evening, but my ire is lost, my concern surfacing when I see his determined stance and piercing gaze turned around the room. What has gotten him in such a state? And yet another part of me hopes there isn't a scene tonight between him and Ariadne. I want nothing to mar this event.
Ariadne does not notice Merlin's arrival and nor does she notice Mordred signalling to her. He tries again; inclining his chin towards the entrance where Merlin still stands looking around the room, then continues our conversation quickly to cover any awkward silences – he is certainly adept at social engagements.
"An Academy!" he says enthusiastically. "Wonderful idea, that! I can certainly be of help in setting one up, seeing as how my own is running quite well almost without my input at this stage." Then his voice drops in pitch, his fervour wavering as he continues. "Of course, most likely one of you should be at the helm of the project, if not the Academy itself, as any High Profile involvement on my part might scare off potential members, students or faculty..."
His sigh and rather large swig of his wine suggests he is less than happy with the current view of Blood Mages.
I gasp faintly, the sudden realisation of his suggestion sinking in. "Oh! I wouldn't know where to begin," I reply quickly. "Setting up an academy is not something I've ever considered. It is a very good idea, though. Yes, very important." Tilting my head I consider him for a moment. I can't help feeling it would be a good idea – gathering the hidden talent from Shadow to Amber, rather than seeking it out. So many more people in the city, strangers trying to find a life, make a new home without friends and family who know them. Yes...a new academy would be a wonderful idea for enriching the population. And yet, I feel oddly saddened by popular opinion about Mordred's livelihood, and realise it must be quite difficult for him. "I have heard good reviews of your Academy," I continue softly. There are some who do indeed uphold the value of his discipline to society. "I know it is worth looking further into setting another up for the Arts." I nod my head slowly, realising I would normally not care for one such as he, but perhaps the wine relaxes my defences. It seems harmless enough....
Oh ho! Finally, recognition registers on her face and Ariadne turns to look over her shoulder at the entrance.
I am so glad Merlin is here and I smile warmly as he approaches. His company is always pleasurable. My initial joy is stifled somewhat, however, when he boorishly grabs my hand and kisses it roughly.
"My lady Akira! You look even lovelier than in my memories..."
His greeting is flattering and under other circumstances, I would be pleased, but I know he is playing a game, though I am unsure of what he hopes to achieve apart from irritating his lady.
"You are too kind, cousin," I reply carefully whilst trying not to look him up and down, his garb is totally out of place in the opulence that surrounds us. Then an intensity I have never felt from him before nearly overcomes me. His emotions are strong but so many different feelings clamour at once that I cannot make sense of any one. If he is doing something to stop anyone from reading him, I cannot tell what it is.
More than a little overwhelmed, I reel off a rather standard greeting. "Thank you for attending," I say to him as he releases my hand. "Your presence would have been missed. Please, try the chocolates and certainly taste the fine wine so graciously given tonight." I nod at Mordred to indicate who provided the wine, but can do little else as I try to control what I am still sensing from him. A small part of me knows if I stop trying to understand what he's feeling, I might not feel so out of sorts, but the thought vanishes as his head rises up from the kiss.
His eyes are amazing! So blue-
"I wouldn't have missed it." Merlin's hand still lingers on mine. "Doesn't look as though my delay has inconvenienced the party, however." He looks at me sheepishly, as though to apologize. "You know, things, well... came up."
His words are like velvet, sliding past any lingering exasperation I might have at his appearance and tardiness, soothing and teasing. When he lets go of my hand, there is an impish grin on his lips and I giggle and roll my eyes – it is not at all like me to behave like this, not in public, but it feels good, it feels refreshing!
I watch the game play out.
I do not have to wait long before he tries to calm her. Unfortunately, I don't get to hear any of it because the band has taken up a lively tune to "Fly me to the Moon" and drowns out his words. I'm glad the musicians know it and I feel my foot tapping to the beat and see others moving to the sound, but the scandalised whispering doesn't stop. Many are still watching Merlin and Ariadne as they continue their argument with gusto.
Fly me to the moon
And let me play among the stars
I feel Seel's presence behind me, then his touch as he leans over me and brushes a hand along my cheek. I shiver with excitement.
"I like your choice of song," he says in a low seductive tone. "With all this commotions, we might slip away into the moonlit night..." he lets his words trail away suggestively.
Let me see what spring is like
On Jupiter and Mars
I barely notice Mordred's dousing with wine and though I hear the clamour of apologies from Lady Mirabelle, I don't pay any heed to what is happening as I look up into passion filled violet eyes.
"Take me from this madness and into another crazy, wondrous world," I whisper and know that anything I say is lost within the loud strains of music and chatter of the guests. "Yes. I would go with you."
In other words hold my hand
In other words darling kiss me
I grin up at him. "Soon," I add, with promise in my voice.
Fill my life with song
And let me sing forevermore
Staying within the confines of Seel's loose embrace I wave over another servant. I believe it is time for dinner to be served.
You are all I hope for
All I worship and adore
Merlin stands before Ariadne's fury and bears it all with a self-satisfied smile. He doesn't seem at all bothered about the crowd gathering to watch their spectacle and is mostly unaffected by Ariadne's passionate pleas. I wish more than anything I could hear what he says to her.
She is so emotional I wonder if this is less a means to get a reaction from my cousin and more a show of sincere affection for him. For her to be so enraged and frustrated, she must feel quiet intently.
I look up at Seel.
Or perhaps I am merely caught up in the romance of the story...
In other words please be true
Hearing her cries and her rapidly retreating footsteps I look away from my lovers gaze in time to see her hurry from the room and into the gardens.
In other words I love you!
I don't think I've ever seen her quiet this emotional. What is my darling cousin up to? I glance at him. He's playing with fire and appears to enjoy it rather a lot, that smug expression-
Suddenly Mordred storms off. I catch a glimpse of his face, it is as red as the wine that stains his shirt and I do believe Helena's profuse apologies are only making matters worse. Ah, the drama of the night continues to delight and entertain my wonderful guests. And now – I smile pleasantly at the people milling around– it is time for dinner and another well earned distraction. I wait a moment and then the crowd starts to break apart as the lure of food calls them away, the steward's announcement timely.
Slipping from Seel's embrace I take his hand and walk us over to Merlin. I see a few stragglers glancing over their shoulders to look at the Prince and some of them even make the effort to hide their curiosity. Let them stare. Tonight will be a night to remember!
But my smile softens as I stand with my cousin. I rest a hand on his arm in an offer of comfort. I can't tell if he needs it – he is a confusing man tonight.
"There is time before dinner," I say so softly and my words go no further than his ears, "If you wish to take some air."
I give him the opportunity to find his lady and bring her back, if she will come, but I want him with me at dinner. It would be a shame to lose his influential presence so soon in the night, and I do enjoy his company.