Courtside Attention

[rassafraggin]

With the hour for Court rapidly approaching, Corwin has chosen to make his way to the Northeastern Grounds ahead of time, rather then right at the chosen hour. As such, he's taken a look at the setup, only to give a little nod of his head in approval before moving over towards one of the tables and to a servant, to whom he murmurs something to before turning to step away.

Free food? Apparently that's a good way to persuade Cefyn to attend something formal. She's currently engaged in eyeing up the offerings with the air of a woman who's aware that she's only got one stomach and is mourning that fact. Clad in a bright red shirt and trousers that are striped in green and blue she's rather eye-catching even before the gleam of gold rings on her arms, gold and bright enamel brooches holding a cloak of tawny fur, and a gold torc at her neck is seen. There's a leaf-bladed shortsword at each hip and a double-headed axe on her back, all peacebonded, but those weapons are borne by a woman with the callouses and scars that suggest she's used them. Corwin's presence gets a glance and then a blink of surprise.

Clad rather simply, Corwin has chosen to wear a simple pair of black jeans, coupled with a silvery, silken poet's type shirt and completed by what has become his trademark leather jacket. Slipping a bit further from the servant that he had spoken to, he's turning and catching sight of Cefyn, noted the surprised look which draws a smile and a slight incline of his head, "Welcome, welcome. If you're unsure as to what to try, take a little of each. It's all rather delicious."

"The looks and smells of these things are most fine, Highness," says the eye-searingly-clad Cefyn to Corwin, in Thari that's several centuries out of date, and accented with something close to Kite but somehow more musical. She offers the black-and-silver-clad man a polite bow - also several centuries out of date.

While others have gathered and begun to take their seats, Corwin is standing near the refreshment table, talking with Cefyn and when she comes to offer up that bow, there's a lift a hand to give a slight little wave, "Please. There's no need for that." A quirk of his lips to a smile and he's then offering, "The kitchen staff certainly did go out of their way to prepare a spread that everyone could enjoy."

Forgoing the food and sticking to business, the group of Fledane Lords and Ladies arrive in a group, joined shortly by Dashton Feldane. A bit of conversing begins amongst them before they begin moving toward seats, carrying on as they begin to settle into place. On one side of Dashton, a pair of seats are left open for someone to potentially join later.

Not even late, or at least not quite, Ryika emerges out of the place, a light wrap around her shoulders as she crosses to where all the people have gathered, and conveniently where the seats are. She moves over to join Corwin, coming up to lightly touch him on the elbow as she comes alongside. "Good turnout and we haven't even caught all of the fasionably late ones yet."

Arriving early, Thoth stands near the back with his arms crossed across his chest. A lot had been happening in his "homeland" and he was here to see how the rest of the Amber realms were faring. His eyes scan the area, and he notes everyone present so far. So far, there was a good turnout, which was always a good thing.

Vialle enters from the Palace, her steps graceful, if careful. Today, she uses a white cane to gently test the area ahead of her for obsticales prior to moving into the newly discovered space. Changes are hard on her, expecially when filled with people. When she finds a chair, she drops a hand to the arm, then traces along the back to be sure that it is as yet unoccupied before claiming it as her own safe haven.

Cefyn smiles ever so faintly, inclining her head to Corwin. "They have themselves done proud," she says. "And I will go taste of their endeavours. Thank you."

A figured moved carefully through the crowds, staying on the fringes and largely covered by robes. The only time they would foray into the crowd was to graze at the food tables before disappearing again amongst random court goers. Ascian had come for a very big human thing, but staying on the edges simply to watch.
Deonte appears at about the same time as the Feldane representatives. He wears a robe, scarf and some sort of strange hat instead of his usual. He offers the mass many small waves as he works his way to a seat in the Crown Advisors' row. Before he settles down, he takes his hat off to bow for Corwin, hat sweeping low as flourish. He never stopped smiling.

There's another smile given to Cefyn as Corwin inclines his head towards her, "Indeed and I will be sure to let them know that it was enjoyed." When Ryika approaches and touches his elbow, he's turning his attention towards her, only to give a little bob of his head, "So very true. And, with everyone arriving, we should get ready to begin." As others begin to arrive, there's a bob of his head in greeting to them, along with smiles given and when Deonte sweeps that bow, there's a chuckle and an incline of hsi head. That done, he's then beginning to turn and make his way towards the front of the seats and the two chairs that rest there, though he doesn't yet take a seat as he turns back to the crowd, "Please, take a seat where ever you'd like. The staff will pass along refreshments and what not if you so desire."

A fair portion of the Feldane contingent is giving horrified looks at Deonte as they shuffle over to their seats.

Vialle. Seeing her once more brought a smile to his face. Bowing his head respectfully, Thoth acknowledges her presence, and then winks. He knows it was inappropriate, but every once in a while he lets his discipline falter, for the briefest of moments. Next, Thoth regards Corwin, re-assessing the man. They had only met a few times, but each time it had been interesting. Nodding in his direction as well, it always paid to be respectfully to the "man in charge". Looking at the others present, Thoth replies to each with a slight nod, at least to those he knows.

Jaymesin arrives quietly, clad in satins and silk brocade in black with highlights of silver and pale blue. He waves off the offers of food. On spotting Vialle, he diverts in that direction with a low murmur of, "Jaymesin, Highness, and the offer of an arm if you still need it."

A smile to Corwin and a nod of agreement before she turns to catch the attention of one of the staff members. A quiet request before she too turns to move over to stand by one of the chairs at the front, watching people milling around, slowly starting to settle into seats. It's only a moment or two later before there's a pair of drinks set on a low table between the chairs at the front by a discrete staff member, prompting a mumur of thanks from Ryika.

Sol slips in unobtrusively and makes her way towards the front where she can see. Standing out for her lack of finery rather than because of it. Those she knows are given sunshine smiles as she goes.

Deonte has little need of a drink or cocktail sandwich. He's rather self conscious about his new attire, especially how the scarf falls from his shoulders and how to best fit his funny long hat with a glowing bullseye. He does take notice though of royals, nobles and official, sending their way a playful drummed waves of his fingers. Ryika gets a silently mouthed 'HI!'.

Unaware of Thoth's smile or his wink, Vialle listens to those coming and going. She does not turn to Jaymesin as he approaches, though she does recognize his voice and a certain quiet that lingers around him. Tilting her head slightly to one side, she smiles, "Thank you. I would like to greet our host and hostess, but did not wish to tread on toes or whack anyone." Rising, she puts her free hand, confident that her guide would provide.

Celeste arrives with a sour look and her lips pressed in a thin line as she's escorted by two in Mandrake tabards and a page. From the look on her face short straws may have had something to do with her presence here today instead of the Duchess Mandrake.

Jaymesin guides Vialle's free hand to his elbow, then escorts Vialle towards the hosts, with a low-voiced commentary of events around them.

Merrisol has been around and about, checking out that hedge maze and some of the early season blooms in the gardens, but he strolls back in time for the event. Although there is still plenty of chair space, he selects the standing room to the side and back, out of the line for refreshments. Then he settles in a patient posture, arms up and crossed on his dress jacket, scanning the growing gathering. So many faces, both familiar and unfamiliar, that he meets gazes and returns nods regularly, as they come.

Aurora is gently ushered in by two Custos. One pauses to murmur in Aurora's ear drawing a frown from the Oracle. There is a lofty sniff and a lift of her chin suggesting she'll not be answering the question or comment posed to her by the Custos and makes her way-followed by the Custos of course-To Lord Dashton. There's a brief but fond greeting murmured to the Feldane as she settles on a seat beside him.

Random noble is a well dressed noble of indeterminate house who finds a place in the back to attend court.

The arrival of drinks between the chairs has Corwin turning his attention to Ryika, a smile on his lips as he dips a little nod of thanks to her, followed by a murmured, "Good thinking." With more people arriving, he's letting his gaze sweep out amongst the crowd, more nods coming to be offered to the arrivals, along with a little bob of his head to each group. Then, it's back over towards Ryika, "We'll give the stragglers a few more moments to come along before we get started. That way, people can take a moment or three to indulge themselves with resfreshments." It's only when Vialle begins to approach that he's turning his attention towards her, a smile on his lips and when he offers an incline of his head, it's to Jaymesin, no doubt in silent thanks, "Thank you, Prince Jaymesin and Lady Vialle, it is so good to see you."

Members of the Feldane contingent continue to crane their necks to gawk at Deonte, their body language while talking to one another is considerably more animated than what is usually seen from them. Dashton is doing what he can to keep them in their seats and eventually rises from his as he sees Aurora enter with her Custos. He leans in and murmurs something back before gesturing to the seats next to him and returning to his own.

Maggie strides in, her Captain's dress uniform crisply pressed with buttons polished to a nearly military brightness. Glancing arouind the area, she nods a greeting to Corwin and Ryika before looking to see who else has arrived. Those she knows are greeted either with smiles, waves or nods. When she spots Merrisol, her smile faulters for a moment before returning. Rather than head his way, however, she steps into the line for the refreshments.

"Inevitably, people will socialize for as long as you give them to chatter and loom." Ryika nods to Corwin and she flickers a smile at his thanks. Her attention settles upon Jaymesin and Vialle as they come closer. "It's so lovely to see you both. I really do need to come and visit with you, Lady Vialle. I hope we can find a good time soon."

Vialle's focus remains on Jaymesin's quiet words, his gentle directions guiding her unerringly to the couple proverbially in the 'hot seat'. Speaking in a low voice, she shifts her attention to the royal couple, though she addresses the air sort of between them, "Good day to you both. It is wonderful to hear you sounding so well." After a pause, she inclines her head toward Ryika, "She is absolutely correct, Your Highness. Choose your moment to begin and to end." Then, with less formality and more quiet warmth, "I would love that, Princess Ryika. I will make time whenever you are available."

Privately, to Maggie and Merrisol, Deonte drums his fingers in your direction for greetings.

Privately, to Deonte and Merrisol, Maggie spots the greeting and returns it with a smile.

Sullivan drifts quietly out of the hedge maze, dabbing a lace kerchief to his lips on either side as he does so, looking fresh as a daisy and thoroughly dandified. He sighs in satisfaction, watching a seagull take off overhead, then slides in to mingle with the crowd, plucking up a flute of sparkling pink wine in passing.

Chuckling to himself, Thoth shakes his head, and mumbles, "Of course she wouldn't notice..." With a smile, and another shake of his head, Thoth settles in. Grabbing a glass of wine as the servants walk by, Thoth remains at the back of the room, absorbing everything around him but not getting to involved. When Celeste arrives, Thoth waves at her. Thoth reserves a deeper bow of his head as Aurora arrives, being respectful to his sister. As she joins Dashton, Thoth also nods at him.

Jaymesin nods to Corwin in turn, and then to Ryika. He's quite happy for Vialle to be the focus of their attention - he's just the guide, waiting for the signal to take Vialle back to her seat.

Cefyn may only have one stomach, but the brightly-clad barbarian appears to be busily marauding her way through the buffet. She's got a plate loaded with food, and has somehow managed to acquire as many onion rings, calamari and other hoop-shaped objects to fill the fingers of her other hand. Carrying the loot she makes her way towards Celeste, grinning hugely.

Eric is there too of course. Being all Ericish. Standing, watching, judging.

Ruby adds herself to the mob of the adventurous, royal or esoteric souls. Wearing a mashup of the official and practical, Navy and Minosian newlyweded into an arranged marriage of sorts. A long storm coat with a tall collar, the length of which nearly brushes the floor. She wears it like a Rank. A bandana to make sure her dreads are orderly and contained as thoroughly as a Karm seal. Her tricorn rests on the helpful bandana, and she seems to enjoy being able to brood out from under its shade. Her gaze sweeps the incredible turnout, resting on notable, nefarious and nutbars alike. She speedbumps on Deonte's gesture. Ruby twitches and resumes scoping folks and a place to do a living statue impression.

Celeste finds a place to settle along the side, where she remains standing. Her gaze sweeps across the room, occasionally dipping politely when her gaze crosses someone else's. Her gaze skids to a stop and back tracks to Jaymesin. Her eyebrows lift a few degrees and then her gaze moves on. Then she spots Cefyn and her eyebrows lift and there's a blink-blink of surprise followed by a slightly relieved lopsided quirk of her lips as she beckons Cefyn to join the Cool kids.

"Your advice, Lady Vialle, is as wise as always," offers Corwin rather pleasantly, only to follow that up with, "And I do believe that we should get things underway, at least so that the offical part can be concluded and people can resume to their day-to-day affairs." That said, he's giving a nod of his head to Jaymesin before his attention drifts out to the crowd, voice lifting as he calls out, "If I might have everyone's attention, we will get things underway." Off to one side stands a rather lovely young woman, known to some as Lady Charlotte, the personal secretary of Princess Flora and it would seem that she's been deemend note-taker for this evening.

Deonte only now notices Eric. He offers the Prince a wide wide beaming smile and ostensibly tips his ostensible hat at him, from his seat in the Council row.

Selecting a mug of coffee, Maggie doctors it with a bit of this or that, then takes up a second. Although her mouth tightens just a little, she makes her way back toward that leaning husband of hers. Choosing a spot nearby, she glances up at him before offering one of the mugs to him. Her expression remains clear of eye and sober of mein, but closed.

Dashton dips his head in a modest bow of greeting toward Thoth, then returns to keeping the Feldane contingent in line. And just in time as a new round of uproar begins as Deonte sits with other Council members. One member of the group is then told to leave, lest they say something regrettable out loud.

Erebus arrives, the shadows seeming to spit him out as an afterthough. With a glance at all present, one at a time, Erebus finds a chair as far away from the action as possible, moving silently and without too much movement. Since Caine was not available at this time, Erebus decides to join this grouping and get as much intelligence as possible. This was a prime zone for getting all the latest...and greatest.

Catching sight of a familiar face in anothewise boggling crowd, Ascian moved along the edges of the group to speak to Sullivan, raising a hand in greeting.

Aurora rests her hand lightly on Dashton's arm and fidgets a bit. Mismatched eyes restless though it doesn't seem it's the attendants that draw her attention. She carefully lifts her feet off the floor and makes sure her skirts do not brush the floor either. Not the most ladylike of poses but it does seem to sooth some of her abrupt anxiety. At the uproar of the Feldanes she murmmurs.

Vialle blushes a little, "Always glad to help." Nodding to Jaymesin, Vialle indicates that a fade would be a good idea.

Spotting Deonte, Thoth nods his head, and smiles at the hat dip. "Nice hat..." He mouths to the man, silently. And it was a nice hat! As the meeting was called "to order" by Corwin, Thoth pays closer attention, not wanting to cause any commotion...or attention to himself.

"We'll chat soon, Lady Vialle." Ryika comments, reaching out to give the woman's arm a gentle touch and then turning back to take her seat in one of the chairs at the front. She settles her wrap around her as she perches, a convenient foot stool ensuring that she doesn't have to sit with her legs dangling. She looks to Corwin as he calls things to order."

Jaymesin returns Vialle to her chosen chair, nodding to Celeste on the way past. That done, he finds a spot in the background to lurk.

Cefyn saunters Celeste-wards, devouring the booty of the buffet-tables on the way.

Sullivan smiles lightly as Ascian drifts closer, leaning to listen to the fellow, he motions to the very end of the council row, sadly rather close to the eye-blinding colour explosion that is Deonte, drifting to the end to settle.

Sol slips her way to the front finally on the side, ignoring any disapproving glances her bare footed simply dressed self gets, still all smiles.

Melina entes with measured step to find a seat near the front sans child and husband for the moment. She lets her gaze travel the room to take in those gathered, noting the uproar from the feldane corner for the breifest of moments before smoothing her skirts and taking her seat

Celeste doesn't seem abashed for her hungry cousin, offering a chair to Cefyn though Celeste herself seems to prefer to stand.

Merrisol observes the parade moving past the food and drinks, smiling slightly to see the fruits of the sea featuring in so many laden platters, whether they were prepared Montevalno-style or Jadeaen. Or worn as jewelry, even. His gaze touches Maggie, lingers, then sweeps with new determination to the head of the gathering, now giving the new leader(s) of Amber their due consideration. Ryika does get a warmer look, and a longer glance in case she should look his way, in which case: brow-waggle engaged. Then - just as Court comes to order, the drink offering lifts into view, and draws his attention back to his own vicinity, and the near presence of his mate.

Privately, to Merrisol, Ryika smiles warmly, a little wink included.

Taking a step forward from his chair, Corwin's hands slip behind his back as he lets his gaze rest upon the gathered individuals, from commoners to nobles to royals and when he speaks, he keeps his voice lifted so that it can carry to all, "I'd like to thank you all for coming to what is the first court of my Regency and I'm glad to see so many familiar and unfamiliar faces amongst you." A slight pause and his gaze is drifting over in the direction of the Feldane faction as he continues, "I'm going to take this opportunity to discuss a few things that the Crown is doing, as well as a few appointments which have yet to be publically announced. But before I do that, I would like to make one thing crystal clear. Civility will be maintained. If people can not, then they will be asked to leave."

He gives that only the barest moment to sink in before once more speaking to the crowd, "It is no surprise that Amber is not what it once was. On top of the issues that we've had, which are numerous in nature, the Crown has been far from stable. We have, for some time, been part of the problem and not the solution. It is my hope and my intention to see that changed. If we are going to begin to solve the problems that we've encountered, then we must have stability."

Nearby, Merrisol meets Maggie's gaze for that brief instant. He uncrosses his arms and accepts the mug of coffee, eyes its black roasted depths, and whispers a subdued, "Thank you, Only."

Thoth takes a drink of his wine, and doesn't say a thing, prefering to watch and listen this time around. Actually, that was the way he was usually like. Looking at others present, Thoth can easily know who the civility comment was for. His eyes then go back to Corwin, as he takes another drink. A good start indeed. Perhaps he would support this Regency.

Vialle settles into her chair, nodding a fond smile after Jaymesin, though she does not turn her head and he might miss it. Her attention shifts to Corwin and Ryika even though her gaze never focuses on anything beyond the middle distance. Settling her cane close to hand, she folds her hands in her lap. This augments her rather straight posture. Her demeaner is attentative, her smile soft and hopeful.

Merri lifts his gaze back up after a brief exchange with his spouse, having made room as needed for her where he stands off to the side. Now holding a hot coffee, he sends his free hand into the aisle to snag Ruby's arm as she meanders by, tugging her into the space on Maggie's other side, making it a merry company of three.

Sullivan settles himself back, leg crossing at the knee juuuuuust so, otherwise perfectly poised as Corwin begins speaking and drops civility into the mix. It brings a small smile to him, watching the turn out and familial attendance in equal measure, checking off faces in the clipboard of the mind.

Nearby, Maggie's nod is very brief, "You are welcome, Beloved." She takes a sip of her own, rather pale mockery of his mug. Though she usually takes it black as night, this one has sugar, cream and cinnimon in it.

Glancing up from her own mug of steaming goodness, Maggie smiles up at Ruby as she is added to their mix. The other Captain is given a nod and room is made by taking a step or two toward Merrisol.

"Like everyone gathered here today, I have no desire to see Amber fall in any way and I will do everything that I can to ensure that she returns to the glory days of old, albeit with some changes to the way Oberon did a few things." That's offered with the hint of smile before Corwin continues with, "And I know that I can not do this alone. That is why the Council of Houses, previously institued by my brother, will be retained, although it has been renamed to the Council of Lords. It's pervue will also be expanded and it will be given a full charter to operate by. More will come on that as things are hammered out."

There's only a touch of a pause taken before Corwin continues once more, "Further to that, a Council of Allies will be formed. Any Shadow who has an Ambassador to Amber will be allowed to attend and it's purpose is to give each of the Shadows the opportunity to lend their voice, either through suggestions or objections, to the directions in which things may move. Far too often are decisions made that greatly impact one of our allies and yet, it is never discussed with them." His gaze now shifts to where Sol has positioned herself, "Which leads me to welcoming Lady Sol to the fray, for she will be representing Amber, and the Crown, during such a thing. For those of you who are not aware, she has been appointed as Amber's Chief Ambassador and placed in charge of the Diplomatic Corps."

Erebus watches carefully as Corwin speaks. Leaning back in his chair, Erebus regards the man with a penetrating gaze. His eyes then scan the rest of the crowd, watching their reactions, and gauging their thoughts based on their expressions. From appearances, it seems that there were several who support this regime, some who are neutral, and the rare person was was trying to hide their negative reactions to Corwin and the Regency. Fascinating...Erebus almost smiles as he made a mental note of those people.

Deonte politely golfclaps at the announcement, nodding to Sol.

Melina turns her gaze poliely to sol and gives a warm genuine smile to the woman that reaches all the way to her emerald green eyes.

Sullivan smiles rather serenely, turning black eyes upon Sol with interest and familiarity. He even lifts a hand from his lap to fingerwiggle at her. Sol-idarity, right?

Jaymesin too nods to Sol - although from further back, it's probably not visible.

Maggie's reaction is one of thoughtful interest. She does trace her Uncle's attention to the small woman in the front. Her smile for Sol is as much 'congratulations' as it is greeting. Then her attention flashes forward once more.

Some of Ryika's attention is upon Corwin as he speaks, mostly watching the back of him, it's true, but the bulk of her time is watching the assembled group. Those who are chatting, those listening, the expressions of various people as Corwin speaks. As everyone's eyes turn to look to Sol, she does as well, briefly, before resettling back over the assembled group. She reaches for the glass waiting next to her chair, taking just a small sip, and setting it down again.

Sol offers a sunshine smile and curtsies in a sway and bounce of those ridiculously unruely rosegold curls. She looks up as she rises gauging if she is being awknowledged or expected to speak, clearly deferring to the regent who is likely to have many matters to discuss.

Celeste blink-blink-blinks and looks confused. She looks to Cefyn with a cocked eyebrow and murmurs softly.

Cefyn apparently divines who Sol is by the woman standing up. It's rather helpful of Sol to draw attention to herself.

Aurora seems more interested on keeping away from contact with the floor than on the proceedings, her hand engulfed by Dashton's and her Custos keep a statue-like presence nearby.

Nearby, Merrisol flashes a tight smile Ruby-wards, all 'Who's minding the ships?' Lir's Gears, don't let it be Clive! Clive, a surprise captain, who would have thought... His glance passes lower to Maggie and there's a faintly tense pause, before he's back to observing the announcements up front. Could be perhaps, the burly forgemistress has been incorporated thus to provide a bit of social buffer. Though, who would have thought /that/?

Thoth simply nods respectfully at the announcement, and smiles, if not warmly. His right hand holding the goblet lifts the wine in a silent toast, followed by Thoth taking a drink.

Eric glances to Sol. glances to Corwin. Maybe a twinge of facial expression.

Merrisol finds Sol by her wild boing-curls once her name is announced. He smiles curiously, taking note of the posting for a subsequent report to the Deep.

A rotund powdered and wealthy Dandy appears to arrive late. His perfume is as agreeable as Axe body spray. He begs pardons with flustered embarassment and his small retinue helps usher him in amongst others. One of them is skilled at mountaineering and hops up to pop a chocolate in his mouth.

Nearby, Maggie notices Merrisol's tight glance, but stubbornly refuses to acknowledge it. Her lips tighten slightly and her eyes resolutely remain forward. Another sip of the tooth-decay in a cup is claimed, though there seems to be something wrong with her swallowing mechanism.

While everyone else was looking at Sol, Erebus was looking at the crowd, and gauging their responses with observation and interest. After all, Amber was always a place for intrigue, backstabbing, and his favorite, covert dealings. SO far though, he was coming up empty. Shrugging, his eyes finally return to the Chair.

"Once I'm done lulling you all to sleep with what seems like my endless talking, please feel free to all surge forward and congratulate the Lady Sol. Just let her settle in for a little bit before you try and scare her away." With another smile, Corwin inclines his head towards Sol, only to then look back out over the crowd, "Now I'm going to speak of Redemption. At some point in our lives, many of us have strayed down the wrong path and have had to accept the consequences of their actions. I'm no exception to this rule." His gaze now shifts to Deonte, "But there comes a time when we wish to attone for the wrongs that we've done. Some of you, especially House Feldane, are intimately aware of Lord Deonte, son of Prince Brand and the actions that he took. Some of you have never heard of him, for his crimes were committed over a thousand years ago." A nod to the other man and then he's looking back amongst the crowd, "A master necromancer, Lord Deonte chose to make use of his talents for nefarious purposes. He was captured and subsequentely imprisoned for a thousand years. Now, though, he wishes to serve and as such, I have given him the opportunity to do so as my Royal Necromancer." Hands unclasp and one dips into a pocket, drawing forth a note, which he lifts up, "Lord Robert of House Feldane does wish to have his objection to this appointment noted and on record and I had promised him, in his absence, to make sure that it was recorded. It should also be noted that Lord Deonte had some reservations about this appointment as well, wishing to not make waves for my Regency or for Amber. But after a thousand years, we must be willing to give people the opportunity to change. To show that they can overcome their mistakes."

Nearby, Ruby offers an agreeable nod to both Maggie and Merrisol. She's got some twitchy Tells, which probably does mean she's thinking of the fleet. Yes, hopefully the Seal isn't in charge. It starts to dawn on her that there is exterior tension, and for the moment forgets her own, and slides her glance between Maggie and Merri. "Hrmm."

Vialle's smile for Sol fades, though not out of distaste. Soberly, she casts her awareness out over the crowd behind her, listening for some hint of where the infamous Lord Deonte might be.

Thoth blinks at this announcement, looks at Deonte in slight surprise, slowly overtaken by a smile, followed by a swift right-handed two fingered salute! Nodding his congratulations to the man, Thoth's smile is overtaken by a grin. Now that was good news indeed. Who says people can't be redeemed?

Celeste stiffles a sigh and bites her bottom lip, nostrils flaring. The corner of her eye twitches, then her jaw flexes, then the corner of her eye twitches again but she does not roll her eyes or snort. She shifts her weight restlessly.

Maggie blinks in surprise as Deonte is named but whether that is due to the nefariousness of his past deeds or that he is yet another half-brother she knows nothing about? Well, that much is unclear. Her frown grows, almost drowned by a lifting of her mug as she claims yet another taste of her rich, brown coffee. Deonte is given a speculative, almost hesitant glance but the red-head does not otherwise stir.

Deonte rises and for Corwyn and Ryika offers a bow. He smiles with relief to the crowd for the short time his gaze flies across. 'Thank you' his lips mouth silently. He takes back his seat and joins his hands together in his lap.

Well! The appointment of a Royal Necromancer causes the well fed Noble to choke on the next Sweet that passes his painted lips. An impromptu beatbox competition ensues upon his back to clear his airway, via his handlers. He coughs loudly and abnoxiously before the irritant is cleared and he feverishly dabs at his powdered face in fitful movements. He begs more pardons in a lowered voice.

Nearby, Maggie inhales slowly, her gaze flickering toward Deonte, then over toward Sullivan. A line of tension seems to solidify her spine but she does not look to either of her companions specifically. Even Ruby's 'hmmm' goes unmarked.

Now this reaction was a LOT more interesting. Crossing his arms across his chest, Erebus absorbs all of the great information that was being revealed out there. Whether a popular or unpopular decision, Erebus takes note of all of this. "Man I love my job..." he says with a very, very small smile.

Sullivan turns his glass with a lift toward Deonte, helpfully highlighting the glaring orange and purple combination of the rising man. He sips afterwards, watching reactions expand like ripples in a pond.

Aurora's head tilts as if listening to something under the murmur of reaction from those she's seated around her. She mmmms softly, "That does explain...." She realizes she's musing aloud and falls silent, gently brushing Dashton's arm reassuringly.

Ascian looked to Deonte at this announcement from his place among the crowd, giving him a bright and cheery thumbs up.

The image of Martin looks slightly agitated, "Sorry, it took longer than expected. Better late than never. Can you pull me through?" He composes himself for the journey through trump to Amber.

Melina nods once to Deonte before her gaze drifts over to te Feldane contingent as her hand moves to her chin, the unconscious gesture to reflect the wheels turning in her head

The Feldane contingent begins speaking quietly amongst themselves and finally applauds only at the mention of Lord Robert's objection. It is short-lived as Dashton works to keep their response as measured as possible at this public gathering.

Dashton mutters to Aurora, "... madness and... One... even... mental... to... to... let... others... his... horse and it... and intelligent a..."

To the image of Martin, Merrisol seeks and finds Deonte as the man stands. The little speech about second chances, ala Corwin, seems to bear some resonance for the ex?-Pirate, so he merely studies the lanky necromancer with only his habitual squinty-eyed suspicion for necromancers. But no more than that. And then, he looks distracted, turning away and subvocalizing a few remarks, "Not to worry, Sire.. we'll fill you in on the So-Fars," while leaning just a bit to extend his arm behind both Maggie and Ruby, as though about to gather them into a hug, or perhaps headlock.

Merrisol seeks and finds Deonte as the man stands. The little speech about second chances, ala Corwin, seems to bear some resonance for the ex?-Pirate, so he merely studies the lanky necromancer with only his habitual squinty-eyed suspicion for necromancers. But no more than that. And then, he looks distracted, turning away and subvocalizing a few remarks, "Not to worry, Sire.. we'll fill you in on the So-Fars," while leaning just a bit to extend his arm behind both Maggie and Ruby, as though about to gather them into a hug, or perhaps headlock.

Celeste frowns and eyes the Feldane corner. Her bottom lip is worried thoughtfully between her bottom lip and she finally spots Erebus. She offers a waggle of a single finger hello.
From afar, to (Merrisol, Martin, Ruby): Maggie laughs at that image. :)

The applause from the Feldane's does draw Corwin's attention, gaze leveling at them a moment before turning back towards Deonte so that a slight incline of his head can be given in response to the bow and as his gaze shifts back to the crowd, he's taking a step back to claim his seat beside Ryika, "Finally, before we open the floor, or in this case the grass, to open business, there a couple of matters that I wish to touch upon." Claiming the drink beside him, he snags a small sip of it before lowering it back down, "By now, many of you have heard of Pathi's sudden disappearance. While many are working tirelessly at it, I wish it noted that the Royal Pathfinders, at least those that are not already tasked to other matters, are available to lend their assistance and Lord Minister Sullivan of the Office of Mysticality stands ready as well." A smile to Sullivan and then it's back to the crowd.

Erebus' gaze falls upon Ryika, and he returns her gaze. His face is placid and calm. No emotion or revelations. Just a "poker face". Then his attention returns to the crowd, without any change in his facial expression. Noting Celeste's finger wave, Erebus nods, slightly, acknowledging her with a slight up tic in his lips, suggesting a smile. The message she conveys is perfectly understood...and acknowledged.

Nearby, Maggie glances up at Merrisol as he takes a trump call. She shifts forward when his arm reaches behind her. Although there is no change to her expression, her manner seems just a bit more clipped than usual.

Sullivan lifts his glass again, highlighting his own spot this time, with a rather slow and meaningful bow of the head, albeit he does not stand. This isn't musical chairs and Corwin is not done.

Sol looks intrigued and there is a knitting of copper eyebrows in clear puzzlement at the ripple and reactions throughout court. Totally. Lost.

Martin appears suddenly through the grace of a trump. Or perhaps he was there hiding behind Ruby all along and she just occasionally shimmers every now and then. "Thank you." He says to Merrisol. He straightens and takes a gander at the crowd.

Vialle sits up a bit straighter at the news of Pathi. Nodding slowly, she lowers her gaze just a little, for the moment her thoughts her own. However, a tick of determination touches her brow when she lifts her head again. Her eyes? Never flinch or flicker from the middle distance that is her visible focal point.
Deonte offers Sullivan a few whispers and a nod.

Thoth looks over at Sullivan after the announcement was made, and nods. There was a lot happening in Pathi, and this was a good forum for discussion. However, his eyes then find Corwin once again, and instead of becoming vocal, just leans back against the wall, and finishes his wine. STrangely enough, Thoth finds that his empty goblet was quickly replaced with a fresh, full one. These servants were good...

Slowly, Dashton works the cluster of Feldane Lords and Ladies back to their normal quiet selves, even admonishing a few for their applause. The very picture of gentility now comes into view in that group. Settling back in, his gaze returns to Corwin to meet it for a moment. Grim faces can be seen as Pathi is mentioned. Dashton even gives Aurora's hand another squeeze at that moment. As the Pathfinders are brought up, a modest bit of applause is given for them.

Maggie's attention turns to Martin for a quick half-smiled nod but then she looks forward, singling Corwin and then Sullivan for a look. She steps slightly forward either to indicate a question or to give Martin a bit more room to be comfortable in.

Seeing others applause here and there, Ascian did the same, his own clapping adding an odd sound to the rest of it.

Nearby, Merrisol quickly fields the updates for Martin: "Corwin's all for stability and bringing back the Amber Heydeys, just without his dad's crap." Wait, what was good about Ye Olde Amber again? "He's keeping the Council of Houses, only now it's the Council of Lords," wasn't it always? "And the Ambassadors are all members. Sol has been appointed Amber's Chief Ambassador. There is also an appointment to Royal Necromancer, don't ask me why. Lord Deonte, he committed an atrocity of some scale one thousand years ago, apparently," he explains, points discretely to the guy sitting up front. "Also, the stuff you know already about Pathi and the Pathfinders."

The fat aristocrat waves a perfumed hankie in the air as a token gesture for the Pathfinders.
Celeste exhales and stares at her feet, her slippered feet held a few inches off the ground with the greatest concentration.

Melina frowns at the mention of Pathi, clear concern in her features though she nods at Corwin's words
Auroraexhales and stares at her feet, her slippered feet held a few inches off the ground with the greatest concentration.

A simple is given towards Dashton when his gaze meets Corwin's and then there's a play of his gaze about the crowd as he claims another quick sip of his drink before lowering it back down. He lets the applause ring out for a moment before his gaze once more drifts about those gathered, "Finally, I'm going to touch upon why I'm holding Court outside and why I had the throne room barred to all but a select few." His gaze now shifts to Sullivan, a nod given before he looks forward once more, "Shorlty after becoming Regent, I discovered the fact that the Throne of Amber is not actually the Throne of Amber. Rather, it's an object of Chaos, one that has been in place for some time. Upon discovering this, I notified Her Grace, Duchess Quina of Mandrake, as a member of the Council of Lords. Currently, Lord Minister Sullivan is working to understand the nature of this particular object so that it can be properly dealt with."

Nearby, Martin nods, grateful for the cliff notes version. If there was ever a constant in the universe, he knows he can depend on Merrisol for the cliff notes. "So basically same shit, different day. Also that no one really knows what to do except that it needs to be done, and so on. And no one really wants to work together, but they want to look like they want to work together. I'm not sure there ever was a Heydey, but it's a nice sentiment. Anyone have anything new to offer?"

Nearby, Ruby nods. "Aye. Tha about sums it up."

Jaymesin smiles ever so faintly at the mention of the Pathfinders, but that's his only visible reaction thus far.

Deonte dabs his eyes lightly with a handkerchief. He wipes under his nose too. This modest outburst of feelings is bottled up behind a brave smile.

Nearby, Maggie listens to Martin without turning to look his way. When he finishes, she shakes her head slightly, "Sounds good to me." Finally, she darts Martin a tight glance that shifts to Ruby, then to Merrisol. It is brief as the comments turn to the throne. Her brows lift and she turns again to face front. A soft gasp sounds, but does not carry beyond their group.

Celeste's nostrols flare and and her lips bare a bit, there's a soft low rumble deep in her chest.

Sullivan hands his glass to Deonte at this and rises from his chair smoothly. He inclines his head juuuuuuuuust so to Corwin, glancing at the Feldanes fleetingly and looks to the court to address. "I would like to assure all and sundry that at the current time, provided that the Throne is not further tampered with, it is perfectly safe. Of course, we are taking the utmost care to prevent any unlucky happenstance. If any so wish to assist the office with its investigations, I am quite easy to find, most days. If any do have questions regarding this, please do see me after the official has been taken care of." He bows his head to the crowd, turns toward the Regency pair and bows again a little deeper this time.

Maggie glances over her shoulder at some quiet conversation within her group but she looks forward again at the announcement about the Throne.

Martin looks like he's getting the cliff notes version of what he's missed so far. He could also be taking orders for what his people want from a particular diner. He nods every so often. He doesn't seem all that surprised about the throne.

Aurora's head lifts and she PEERS at Corwin. Her lips pucker as if suddenly sucking on a very sour hard candy and squints at her uncle/regent.

Vialle lifts her head a bit at the announcement of the Throne. Her mouth tightens but she holds her peace. Is that anger or distress within her? At the moment, she remains calm, perched in her chair.

At this particular revelation Ascian took rather extreme notice, looking to Corwin for a moment before his gaze went to Sullivan, where it began to bore a hole through the side of his head.

Sol looks up and around. She seems surprised and her gaze seeks out the others of court to see their response, not seeming anxious though there is a solemn reflection at this news.

Melina eyes Sullivan thoughtfull, the words "perfectly safe in connection with the word chaos causng a twist to her lips and a motion akin to a silent cough

Ryika collects up her glass, lingering over it as she watches the reactions. There's no visible surprise upon her face, clearly Corwin isn't sharing anything that's news to her, or she's very good at not acting surprised. She glances over to Sullivan, a smile there and then she goes back to people watching.

Aurora wonders to Dashton, "How is this news?" finally. She is sushed and gives a courtier behind her a scathing look before turning back around, and leaning back in her seat.

Corwin's giving a simple nod of his head towards Sullivan, along with a quick, "Thank you, Lord Minister." Then, it's to the crowd once more, only for him to then offer up, "For now, that concludes my piece of things, which I'm sure many of you are happy for." A smile and then, "Now, I'll open things up to questions or business that needs to be brought before the Crown. I just ask that everyone keep it orderly and not shout out at the same time."

Merrisol straightens up from murmuring to his group placed to the side, and gazes query at Corwin when the revelation of the chaosified Throne hits. His attentive but puzzled expression doesn't become anymore enlightened as response ranges through the gathering. Finally, he just glances back among his nearby companions, seeking info.

Nearby, Merrisol wonders with a shrug, "Is it possible that Caine altered the throne just by being in contact with it for a period of time?"

Moving with some care and deliberation, Vialle rises from her seat. Lifting one hand, she waits patiently to be recognized.

Deonte distractedly sips from Sullivan's glass. The taste reminds him of his mistake and he hands the glass back.

Sullivan takes up the glass, peers at it, glances at Deonte with an arched brow and drifts from his position to go and do a swapsies of the flute. New pink sparkling wine aquired, he wends his way back to his seat via a circuitous route, eyes landing on Vialle and staying there whilst he settles.

Nearby, Martin shakes his head, "No, there's another reason. I'm trying to remember the details as we speak. But unfortunately, even the revelation that I have may be in question because I don't know how reliable the source is."

Sol looks around the court to see who who has business before the court, not speaking up yet but keen to spot anyone who looks like they may.

As Vialle becomes the first individual to express interest, Corwin is smiling as he offers up, "Lady Vialle now has the floor."

Nearby, Maggie shrugs for she knows nothing of it.

Celeste seems appeased by Sullivan's news but still looks dark and glowery. Whelp. It's not a proper court without a pissed-off Mandrake.

For a fleeting moment, Vialle's attention is distracted by something behind her and she grows still to listen or sense. That snap distraction is gone when she is recognized. She offers a smile in the Prince-Regent's direction, "Thank you, Your Highness. I am delighted to hear about the return of the Pathfinder's, to be sure. However, to the point of the Throne. Is there any indication that any harm came to those who visited the throne room previously?"

"Only those who try to physically move the throne are in any danger, Lady Vialle," offers Corwin, following that with, "Being in proximity to it has no effect on anyone at all. In fact, when it's left to simply sit there, it seemingly remains dormant and can't be detected by normal means."

Maggie draws a breath as she listens to those behind her. Slowly, her own hand lifts to request the court's attention. This is for notification purposes, to get herself into the question queue.

Vialle nods quietly, "Thank you, Your Highness." Her smile is offered the air before her and she feels her way back down into her chair.

Looking appraisingly over the room at the end, Dashton catches sight of Sullivan near Deonte and frowns for a moment. He looks back forward, silent for a beat or two before Aurora draws him out of his mental wanderings. "Hmmm? Ah, indeed." He offers her a small smile before lifting her hand for a small kiss. Turning forward again, he tries to focus on the current topic.

"My pleasure, Lady Vialle." Now, when Corwin looks back out to the crowd, his gaze settles upon Maggie, "Captain Flame, you have the floor."

Word of chaos taint upon what passes for the Throne of Amber had Baron Von Chubbycheeks gasping and sputtering for oxygen, like a fish out of water. The call for calm doesn't help diminish his agitation. He slaps at his aides for them to immediately start spritzing him with blessed scents.

Raphaela was totally here all the time. She just isn't very noticable, surely.

Merri returns his attention to the front while Vialle asks and is answered, with useful data. He edges back a pace just so Maggie can be fully seen by those placed along the same angle as his group.

Not wanting to be rude, Thoth places his glass on a nearby table, and with as much grace and stealth as possible, sneaks out the back, disappearing as though he was never there.

Aurora perks at the mention of Captain flame and suddenly Perks up, mismatched eyes scanning the crowd to lock on the figure of her sister.

Maggie darts a glance over her shoulder, but it is perfunctory. Nodding, perhaps in thanks, perhaps to indicate understanding, she faces front again. Her hand lowers as she nods to Sol briefly. Then, "While I understand the need to see to Pathi, Kitezh's need has gone unanswered for quite a while. There have been attempts, but no permanent solution has been provided. It seems to me that the Pathfinders should begin there rather than divert to a new issue. I would appreciate knowing the rationale behind that decision, please." Solumn, deliberate, focused, her gaze remains on her Uncle for a moment before sliding to Lord Sullivan.

Sullivan glances to Corwin, to see if he's going to field this one.

Erebus remains off to the side, staying silent, and watching. He has no stake in either issue, so he remains silent. His eyes briefly fall on Sullivan. Then to Sol. And finally, once more to Maggie.
Deonte has little to show anymore, rather busy scraping notes into a wax tablet with a stylus.

Ryika watches Maggie approach and ask after Kitezh. There's a quirk of her head, her expression continues to be thoughful. She glances to Sullivan and Corwin both to wait on the answer.

Raphaela is at her designated spot, ignoring people trying to suck up, and ocassionally speaks to her assistants, or gestures to write something down she thinks relevant for later study. Her silver eyes scan the room, noting who is here, who is with whom, reactions, information and probably accessories. As per usual, not a lot can be said about what she thinks of any of the issues past, or any emotions linked to it. Her posture is very proper, though certainly not especially prepared for this occasion. And in her usual palace fashion....not very ladylike. Balls are to show off you're a socialite. court is business. Dull affair. Or so much fun you better be practically dressed and ready to run.

Nearby, Martin shrugs, looking like his head hurts from trying to remember. "My mind got a bit messed up in Deep Shadow so I cannot tell you a great deal, but I've heard all this before. That people were aware long ago."

Ascian stood at the edges of the crowd, watching the proceedings with curious interest. As things seemed to wind down he removed his hood to let the sun play off his head and the hand he raised as he spotted Rapheala amongst the crowd, giving her a wave.

Sol blinks and looks to Corwin then and steps forward as if she might speak.

Raphaela gives a nod at some point to everybody familiar who looks her way. Ascian gets a raised brow. Curious fellow, that.

"A very good question, Captain Flame," offers Corwin, following that with, "A disappearing shadow, even if it's Pathi, is a cause for concern and could be an indicator of larger things. But, it's also why I stated that only those Pathfinders not currently tasked would be assisting with Pathi." As Sol steps forward, his gaze shifts to her, to give a nod, "Lady Sol. Do you have something to add to this?"

Sullivan rises up from his seat with a soft purse of lips, drawing himself tall. He steps forward, offering a brief nod to those he had been sitting with or nearby, to approach the Regency pairing, back and to the left a little ways. It's a silent show of support, though he lifts his glass. "If I may, your royal Highness?" he asks of Corwin.

Sol lifts her voice so it carries clearly, "While it is true that Kitezh's seas do not join the Golden Circle Kitezh is not lost, it is still accessible. Kitezh's people thrive and are not in distress." She speaks slowly, carefully, with heavily accented Thari and also without any great sense of urgency "I cannot speak for Amber's interests or priorities or those of the Pathfinders but rest assured my Aesir, King of Kitezh, would never claim Kitezh's circumstance over another Realm in Peril."

Merrisol nods faintly to Martin with a concerned glance, though the topic currently on the bill keeps most of his attention on the track between Maggie and Corwin. He lifts then sips his coffee, cooled though it may be now, in a subtle-or-not toast to the Regent's acknowledging there are other problem areas where the shadows, actual allied shadows even, are concerned.

Corwin's head incline's the direction of Sol as he offers, "Thank you, Lady Sol." His gaze shifts to Sullivan, "Something to add, Lord Minister?"

Ruby cups her hands around her mouth and ~rudely~ bellows across the hall. "I recommend Cap'n Flame tah organize efforts tah resume work on a stable path tah New Kitezh. She's got a 'eart 'o gold tha can stand tha cold!" She adds, "Do we actually know they in Peril, or just bloody secretive as usual...AYE?"

Celeste shifts weight restlessly where she stands, glancing about and chewing her bottom lip. The page dares to send an elbow into Celeste's side and there's a brief ill tempered sneer but amazingly Cel's form stills and stops the wiggling. For now.

Maggie listens to Corwin, then to Sol. Her nod is quiet to Corwin, a single inclination, "Thank you." Her attention turns to Sol then, listening with a quiet intensity. That lady is given as much of her attention and focus as her Uncle received. She is about to turn to Sullivan when Ruby shouts from behind her. Her shoulders hunch a little as her hackles rise. Her friend is given a faintly paniced over-the-shoulder stare that fades to determination and a blushing, "Thanks." Then she looks forward again to listen to Sullivan without accepting or rejecting the nomination. HEr cheeks, however, live up to her Captain's moniker for quite a while.

Deonte looks up to Ruby and adds more notes. More notes. All the notes.

Aurora sliiiides down in her chain, allowing Dashton to capture her hand to urge her gently more upright. A cheek rests on the Feldane's shoulder as she observes-amazingly quiet. For now.

"Indeed, your royal Highness," Sullivan looks to Sol as the diminutive ambassador speaks up, giving a small smile her way and a nod of the head. "Thank you, lady Chief..." and he looks to Maggie. "I would agree with Rear Admiral Incarnate, that you would be a very good candidate to take up the work begun years past and unfinished, Captain Flame, my daughter in law. And I shall address the issue presented to the court by Rear Admiral Incarnate: Pathi moves. All know this that know anything of the shadow, but it does not vanish entirely. There were concerning pieces of information that leaked from the Sybils of pathi and other oracles of note, regarding a forewarning of a great Cataclysm and it is my regret that the nature of the place allowed pride to come before a fall. It cannot be reached by the sea, even to those that know the way to get there, nor do the trumps work to reach it. This alone, indicates that something -dire- has occurred, /to/ a Golden shadow. That is a priority that places the place in Crisis. I will be taking personal interest in attempting to locate where Pathi -was- relative to everything else around it and to find if any sign can be discovered as to what might have happened to sever it from the shadow paths utterly."

Locations Players
Northeastern Grounds - Royal Palace Ascian Aurora Bleys
Cefyn Celeste Corwin
Dashton Deonte Dirk
Erebus Eric Jaymesin
Maggie Martin Melina
Merrisol Niles Raphaela
Ruby Ryika Sol
Sullivan Vialle

Raphaela takes a notebook from her assistant and writes something down by her own hand. Gasp. How curious.

Maggie nods to the points presented, then fades back to stand a bit ridgidly within the circle of her group. Her focus? Flits from Sullivan to Sol then back to Corwin. After that, she enfolds, watching, listening, but singularly internal.

With no one else expressing interest in that particular topic, Corwin's giving a little bob of his head as he offers up, "Very well. Moving on. Does anyone else have any additional business to bring forth?"

Privately, to Merrisol, Raphaela's bangs are getting longer, and current hairstlye tucks them away from her face more or less neatly depending on occasion, leaving a hair thin scar over her brow and forehead visible.

Sol looks as if there is something else she might like to say so she steps forward again.

As Sol steps forward, Corwin's giving a nod towards her, "Lady Sol, you have the floor."

To Ruby, Merrisol can't help but does try to suppress the smirk which surfaces when Ruby bawls her suggestion that brings fiery roses to Maggie's cheeks. He leans again to pass on a remark to his immediate vicinity, "Do you require a similarly loud nomination to see to that wrinkle on the Cibolan Path, Ruby? I'd be happy to holler out that issue, if people need the reminder."

Muttering to Ruby, Merrisol can't help but does try to suppress the smirk which surfaces when Ruby bawls her suggestion that brings fiery roses to Maggie's cheeks. He leans again to pass on a remark to his immediate vicinity, "... nomination to... that... the... I'd... happy... holler out..."

Nearby, Merrisol said, "Do you require a similarly loud nomination to see to that wrinkle on the Cibolan Path, Ruby? I'd be happy to holler out that issue, if people need the reminder."

Sol curtsies again and offers a sunshine smile, raising her voice again, "There will be a social after court in the Yellow Room for those who would like. Diplomats and dignitaries are encouraged to attend and mingle but the social is open and all are welcome."

"Excellent," offers Corwin to Sol, a smile on his lips as he inclines his head in her direction, "Thank you for arranging that, Lady Sol." His gaze drifts about the area once more, "I suppose, then, that this shall be the final call for new business or matters for the Crown."

Nearby, Ruby thinks. "Maybe remind fools not tah use tha path without good reason. I gots an idea how tah massage it but will take resources an plannin"

Martin peers at Ruby briefly, pride in his eyes. He'd been lost in thought about something important he's trying to remember.

Aurora mutters softly to herself and blows a heavy tbreath causing her veil to flutter.

Nearby, Ruby says, "we dont need any o this bureaucracy. lets sit on until we need tha headache"

With no one else stepping forward for the Crown's time, Corwin's giving a nod of his head, along with a quick, "Very well. With nothing else on my agenda for this particular session, I shall turn the floor, so to speak, over to my wife." A look towards Ryika, a smile and a little nod of his head.

At the lack of people rushing to bring new business before the Crown, Ryika glances to Corwin as he gestures to her. She breaks her silence as she looks out over the people. "I wanted to thank everyone for coming out to Court this afternoon. I am glad to see you all here, and to hear some of the concerns and thoughts that are resonating amongst the thoughts of those who hold Amber dear. I also am quite well aware that not everyone is entirely comfortable bringing their thoughts and opinions out in a public venue." There's a warm smile. "Not everyone is willing to be put on display. Please feel free to contact me directly." She gestures generally. "I look forward to seeing Amber work together to overcome her challenges. Thank you." She nods politely, turning back to Corwin as she finishes.

Celeste allows an indelicate snort and is again elbowed by one of the those in the Mandrake retinue. Her low growl gets only a soft, "Her Grace's orders, Lady." There's a dark glower but there are no further out bursts.

Raphaela slides her gaze to Celeste.

Corwin gives a little bob of his head in the direction of Ryika, following that up with, "Well said." That done, he's then moving to rise from his spot in that chair, gaze playing out over the crowd once more, "As always, the door to my office is pretty much always open. If I'm not available, you can pester my wife. Or, as she said, you can approach her directly if you would feel more comfortable doing so. And I can only echo her sentiment of working together to overcome our challenges and I look forward tow orking with each and every one of you. Thank you, one and all, for taking the time to come out today." Now, his gaze slides over towards Sol, "And on that note, as the Lady Sol has stated, there will now be a social in the Yellow Room of the Palace for those that interested. Please feel free to attend for as long as you like."

Raphaela curtseys when unspoken rules demand it, accepting the ending of the official, and beginning of non official business. She dismisses her assistants with a gesture of a wrist of her gloved hand.

Sullivan offers Ryika a little 'mwah' of the air, drifting off to the buffet tables to stare at the vast amounts of things on offer with a sigh. He extracts a mirror from his waistcoat pocket, checks his make-up, checks his hair, then seemingly satisfied with that, holds it in a limp wrist whilst perusing the long line of things on offer for something non-lumpy.

Ryika stands as Corwin does, taking a step closer to him as he effectively closes court. She reaches for his hand, as attention moves to chatter and potential social in the Yellow room. She leans in close, coming up on tip toes to murmur quietly to him, the hand helping tug him down to be able to hear her.

Deonte walks his cane and hat after Sullivan. He is positively glowing with glee. Cane under his arm, he gets two plates and asks Sullivan what he wants.

Claiming Ryika's hand and offering a soft little squeeze, he's leaning in to murmur something in reply to her.

Raphaela's eyes lazily slash about as she discreetly stretches her poor salty bones, checking who is where.

Sol offers a sunshine smile and turns to trot off to the Yellow room in a bounce and sway of those looong wild curls.

Now that things had broken up 'officially', Ascian began walking amongst the others, moving towards the Yellow Room.

Erebus takes that time to move forward, a shadow detaching himself from the darkness of the back of the court. Moving forward, he bows his head respectfully to Ryika, and smiles. A cold, distant smile. "My Lady. You are as ravishing as always." His eyes next find Corwin, he adds, "Prince Corwin. As eloquent as always. My Prince Caine sends his regards. It was a very good afternon. Full of pomp, circumstance, and illumination. I wish you the best on your reign. Long may he." Erebus nods once more.

The retinue of assistants of the fat rich fellow tug and nudge their overfed responsibility. 'It is time to go your Grace.' He in turn sputters and rages, "You told me he'd be here! You promised me he would come! Floggings for everyone until rumors improve!" Cringing, they hustle the fat noble out under duress. Placating him with Sweets, caresses and assurances of his handsomeness.

Celeste growls, "Nooo, noo." To a nearby family member, "Her grace said I had to come to court. Nothing was said about going to any social." she turns on heel.

Raphaela cuts of Cel's emergency heel path, by sheer accident, blinking. "Hello Celeste, how have you been."

Ryika turns as Erebus moves up to speak with them, her hand still in Corwin's. Her own smile is warm, welcoming. "Lord Erebus, it's always fascinating to see you. I'm glad you could come to Court."

Celeste squints at Raphaela and stares at the other woman, "How's the salt business?"

Corwin's offering a smile to Erebus, along with a nod of his head, "Lord Erebus, thank you for such. Please do pass along my regards to Prince Caine when you talk to him. If you happen to, before I do, that is."

Aurora has dozed off on Dashton's shoulder and is now snoring softly and drooling on Lord Feldane's jacket.
Deonte watches the Feldane idly, nibbling at the edge of an onion ring over an otherwise empty plate.

Jaymesin, meanwhile, goes over to assist Vialle with getting to wherever she wishes to be.

Sullivan glances to Deonte, but appears only to have decided on some salmon mousse and a spoon.

Raphaela says "Bland. I am starting to lack shadows to trade in. Quite a fix." She finds a cookie somewhere. Hand moved over the table, but cookie might have come out of her pocket. Depends on perspective, really.
Celeste frowns gently, "Maybe you should smooze the pathfinders, eh?" She eyes Raphaela critically.

Erebus' gaze returns to Ryika, his cold demeanor warming somewhat. "How could I not, and be encapsulated by such incredible beauty as yours, My Lady?" His eyes then turns back to Corwin. "Of course Prince Corwin. Of course matters of state have taken him away, but he felt it important to have a...representative present. To ensure...order and security of course." Erebus' tone is neutral and calm, cool and steady. "It is good to be back in Amber after having been away so long." Erebus takes a moment to look around. "An interesting day indeed." Turning back to Corwin, Erebus adds, "If you ever require my services from a more...covert angle, please, do not hesitate to ask. I am, of course, ever loyal to the crown." Erebus nods his head in deferrence, but his eyes never leave Corwin's.

Merrisol liberates the cold cups from his lot to set them in the bussing tray nearby. He glances about as the gathering disperses, then confers with his group on next actionable course.

Ever so gently, Dashton wakes Aurora with a light squeeze of her hand. "Shall we get you back to your Suite? I think we are finished with today's obligations." He offers her a small, warm smile before rising from his seat and extending a hand back to her once more.

Raphaela silver eyes focus on Cel above the cookie, still remaining close enough to block her path and stare at her down the nose or up the nose depending on height ratio. "Working on it. Naturally." she headtilts "Table is quite empty hm? Maybe Yellow room has undiminished stashes. Court got me peckish, and Kale monster is watching. Come on." she evacuates Cel. And probably shows up later in Yellow room sans Cel. Dragons, amIright? Stays polite amount of time, greets all her friends and is polite to boring rest, then heads off. Work to do. Salt to sell. People to stare at.

Cefyn, meanwhile, takes advantage of the end of Court to go back to pillaging the banquet, just as the barbarian she appears to be.

Ascian milled about with the end of proceedings, moving in and out of spaces rather like a cat would. Most of it was spent grazing along still available food at the tables and watching the interplay of groups moving in and out. With everyone mingling, naturally so did Ascian. And since there were a few people EVERYONE seemed to want to talk to, so did he! The man of living bronze moved through the crowd to approach Corwin, Ryika and the others there, offering what could best be described as an exceedingly courtly bow with absolutely no soul behind it. It did lovely things to the light as he moved though. "Greetings Prince Corwin of Amber. You are much more three dimensional than your picture in the hell would seem to suggest. Perhaps I should not have taken it as a literal interpretation of your appearence." He looked to Ryika and Erebus. "Hello as well. I can be called Ascian, if you wish." He didn't seem particularly perturbed about interrupting a conversation, a placid look on his shiny face.

Celeste sighs and walks with Raphaela, grumbling softly as she goes. She looks over her shoulder to Cefyn, "Take care, Lady Cefyn!" And her gaze casps about for Erebus, finds him indisposed and is thusly ushered out.

Aurora is urged awake and escorted out by the ever so attentive Lord Dashton even as he is closely swarmed by his kinsmen on the way out.

Deonte watches Aurora being whisked away. He wiggles his fingers at her in a bye bye wavelet.

Corwin's giving a little bob of his head in the direction of Erebus, "Aye. I knwo of several matters in which are drawing him away and as such, I did not expect him here." A smile and then he's listening, only to give another nod of his head, "I shall keep that in mind, Lord Erebus and it is something that, perhaps at a later date, we should discuss in further detail." The arrival of Ascian and the subsequent conversation draws a quick chuckle from his lips and a bob of his head, "A pleasure, Ascian. And yes, we do tend to look better then pictures. Well .. at least some of us."

Amongst those Feldane, Dashton and Aurors seem to almost disappear in the throng of aristocrats and others who are now departing the room.

Sullivan spoons salmon mousse into his mouth, sucking on the fishiness. The mirror is slid back into his pocket, his eyes trailing Dashton as the man departs in a cluster of Oracles and Feldanes, then settles on Ascian, Erebus and the Regency couple. His cheeks suck in as he treats the spoon like a lollipop.

Erebus' gaze turns towards Ascian, and he nods. "I am Erebus. It is pleasant to meet you Ascian." Erebus' gaze is glacial and calm, as though the disruption had not registered. Calm, cool, and collected. No sign of any anger or emotion. A placid mountain lake. Turning back to Corwin, Erebus nods his head, and smiles. That cold smile once more. "Of course. I am...uniquely suited to assisting in that matter. After all, I have done it for..." A pause, as though considering. He was sure Corwin remembered him from the time of Oberon. His memory had probably returned. "...a time." With a flourish, Erebus accepts Corwin's words. "Of course. Until next time." WIth that, Erebus winks at Ryika, and disappears into the shadows, an afterthought, a mirage, a shadow.

"Pleasure to meet you, Ascian." Ryika nods politely to the shiny gentleman who has come to join the conversation. She glances to Erebus and nods. "I would be glad to invite you for coffee, if your schedule has the room for it. I am easily found."

From a distance, a voice replies, "My Lady, it would be my pleasure to take you up for coffee...thank you." Erebus' voice echoes...

Celeste has been detained by another curious courtier, suffering patiently as the other lady chatters at her.

Ascian nodded to the regent. "Indeed. I shall hold this to be true of all portraiture from now on." He looked to Ryika and smiled. "Greetings to you. I also heard you speak. I did not follow much of it, but it was interesting none the less." Stated with the same serene look and rather matter-of-factly. He watched as Erebus faded away, blinking. "Hmm. I have not seen a human do that before." Shrugging, he looked about for any familiar faces, eyeing those headed towards the Yellow Room.

"Oh, I'm well aware," offers Corwin to Erebus, along with a nod of his head at the mention of next time and when the man begins to depart into the Shadows, he's simply watching a moment before his gaze shifts to Ryika, smile on his lips before his gaze shifts back to Ascian, "Probalby wise of you." A pause and then a quick chuckle, "A few have such talents." His gaze plays about the area before he's waving over a servant, only to offer, "Gather up the remaining refreshments and add them to those already in the Yellow Room."

Merrisol loiters with a few companions about the edge of the delineated Court grounds which are quickly depleting in bodies, himself in no rush to get to the offered Social in the Palace's Lemon Room.

Sullivan snags an entire bottle of delicious orange-tinged cognac, exchanges salmon mousse for white chocolate and raspberry kind and glides on out -- likely to the yellow room, with a glance back at Deonte.

"If you have questions about what I said, I am often free to give what answers I can." Ryika comments to Ascian and then glances up to Corwin as he directs the servants, her attention back to Ascian. "Are you new to Amber?"

Ascian nodded to Corwin. "Indeed. Humans have many interesting abilities. A great many of them seem to have a tendency to turn into animals for instance. At Ryika's question he nodded. "Indeed I am. I was found in a lake in Arden not long ago, and eventually made my way here. It has been an interesting experience so far."
"Ahh, an amnesiac," is what Corwin offers to Ascian once the servants move to carry on their orders to transfer remaining foods and drinks to the yellow room, "I do hope that you manage to recover your memories sooner, rather than later." A quick smile and then he's stepping aside for a moment, to murmur something to another servant.

"Ahh." Ryika nods with understanding as she listens to Ascian. "That is a challenging time, when everything is unfamiliar. I am an amnesiac as well, having stumbled out of Arden myself a number of years ago. It is interesting, and fascinating, and frustrating. I hope you have found somewhere to stay in Amber, and are making some connections?"

Ascian looked to Corwin, shaking his head. "It is true that my memory is limited and damaged, but that is not exactly accurate to say I am an amnesiac. Rather to be more accurate my memories are largely limited due to only having achieved full sentience close to the time of my emergence in Arden." He thought on this question from Ryika for a moment. "I have met many people, if that is what you mean. And when I do not wish to be traveling, I often stay in Sullivan's solar. Or the Sorgo Gardens. They are very peaceful at night."

Wulf heads into the gardens under a cloud of mild confusion, mostly for the fact that he managed it seems, to completely miss that there was something going on. His eyes seek Celeste first off, then the rest of the crowd of shinily dressed of just plain shiny folks that still persist here. The giant draws closer to the Mandrake cluster.

Finsihing with the servant, Corwin's than rejoining Ryika and Ascian, only to give a little nod of his head, "Ahh, well that makes sense. And Sullivan is a good one to hang around with. You'll certainly meet some interesting people." A smile and a nod of his head, "As well, you should make a point to venture to the social that is happening in the Yellow Room. It would be a good opportunity to meet even more people."

* * * * * * * * * *

"Oh, yes, quite so. No rest for the wicked, or the bored, or the suddenly innundated, after all. I think I need another big white board that I can draw on. That worked quite well the last time," Sullivan muses, thinking deeply. "I need to pack for a trip at sea. I haven't been on one of those for a while. I wonder if I should pack plenty of towels? It seems logical."

Deonte makes his appearance late, a little out of breath and so very clashy coloured in fashion. "Chief Embassador, Lord Minister..." He rubs his signet ring idly as he studies the faces in the gathering. And that's it. He seems lost up his hat.

Sol looks confused, "Why do you require towels at sea?" She offers a reassuring smile to Deonte, "Salutations, Chief Necromancer. Congratulations! I did not know Amber had a Chief Necromancer, it seems as if your reputation remains intact after all!" She bobs her head to Sullivan, "If you require any assistance from Kitezh or Golden Circle Allies I will be most pleased to facilitate however I may."

Merrisol strolls in from the grand entrance hall, picking up and losing people along the way. Point of fact, he turns to try and introduce Sidonie to Martin, then kind of pirouettes while walking and realizing, "Dah, he was just here..."

"Why towels? Why to dry yourself off with, of course. Sea voyages inevitably leave me with damp patches. I think it's a curse..." Sullivan replies with a shrug, lifting his cognac bottle for a deep swig and spooning chocolate-raspberry mousse. "Also: They double as trochanter rolls, emergency bandages, stuffing for unexpected drafts, spare pillows... never go anywhere without your towel." He watches Merrisol's entrance, chuckles softly and nods thereafter to the rather spaced out fashion disaster of Deonte. "Deep end. Requires snorkel or very large straw."

Vialle enters the Yellow room on Jaymesin's arm, though the young man takes his leave of her within moments of making sure she is in a comfortable spot to listen and enjoy the company. Vialle claims a chair of pale buttercreawm rather than a brighter hue.

Sidonie looks rather relieved to have found Merrisol in the hustle and bustle. She grips the fabric of her skirt as she walks, then pauses to look about. "I'm sure he'll come around again?" she tries to assure him.

Ascian came into the yellow room having somehow managed to chase a butterfly all the way there. He stopped short of colliding with anyone in doing so, weaving with inhuman movement through the room until it got away. But hey! There's some sweets! By the time Ascian looked up from the laden snacks table, he had an arm load of clearly sugary things. Spotting three familiar faces, he moved towards the crowd containing Deonte, Sol and Sullivan, carefully balancing his prizes so he could raise a hand in greeting. "Hello! I understand that it would be appropriate to congratulate you Sol, on your current position. I have already congatulated Deonte on his. I do not know what his means exactly, but it seems like a good thing."

"...Rear Admiral Incarnate, Warden of the Deep Merrisol, Ascian the Bronze Scion of Karkancolos The Scouring Winds and Bonesaw Sidonie dearest," Deonte resumes as if no time had passed since he'd blanked out. "Good eve." He moves to the bar and gets himself a tall glass of sherry.
After but a moment, Vialle rises again, murmers a quiet 'Excuse me, please', and makes her way back out into the Palace proper.

Sol tilts her head and looks amused, "But then you have a ship full of wet towels. what would you do then? Er...ah...what is a snorkel?" She is perched on the arm of a chair chatting with Sullivan while servants make the rounds with drinks and make sure the food is kept in good order for those who are still peckish.

Merri gets himself reoriented and glances up at Ruby, then down at Sidonie, who haven't vanished. Two Captains in the hand are worth a Prince and Captain in the bush, as that saying goes. "He and Maggie'll catch up," he agrees, "They both know their way around this maze better than I do. And you, Doc.. ever been inside Amber Palace?" he gets around to asking, only to stop in his tracks and shoot a wary gaze Deonte's way. The Royal Necromancer is an intel man, it seems.

A healthy pour. A Mandrake measure, one might even say! Ashby finishes giving the servant disapproving looks the moment he has the proper amount of brandy in his snifter and then his devilish grin is back in place as he spins around! A sip is stolen and blue eyes light up as he catches sight of a familiar face, his free hand flying up into the air flamboyantly as he calls out, "Ah! What fortune! Lady Lhasa Chantris! How wonderful to see you again!"

Maggie steps into the Yellow room and looks around. She spots those she is looking for yonder, but then her gaze slips past Merrisol, Ruby and Sidonie to settle on Sol and Sullivan. Those two are given a speculative smile though she turns first toward her husband and companions. Walking that way, she catches up a mug of coffee, this time black, from a server and makes her way toward that cluster.

Sidonie beams the new Royal Necromancer a smile that manages to be both warm and hesitant. Bonesaw Sidonie dearest is not a terrible moniker, by far. She watches Deonte walk to the bar, as if considering walking over, but there is much to distract and much to see before it's time to break away from her cadre. The bronze fellow in particular gets a curious look from the surgeon, and a few others that are new to her. "I went to the Library once, but that's all," she replies to Merri, eyes finally tearing away from the shiny people. And then... her actual new name is announced by Ashby. Her cheeks color, and she smiles. "Your Grace," she says to the Duke, looking both delighted and, well, embarrassed by this attention.

"Essentially a straw with hobnail boots on," Sullivan replies to Sol, drawing in the air a breathing apparatus, which of course, does nothing for actually helping the eyeball to reciprocate that to mind. He's just tracing thin air, but apparently it's there in his imagination. "Lets a bit more air in. Usually used on recreational beach vacations where you have to scrub your mind clean from having seen your husband in swimming trunks after months indoors. It's horrifying."

At these introductions Ascian smiled brightly, looking to Ruby, Sidonie and Merrisol, the last of who he squinted at. "I see... your name is much longer than you initially stated at our last meeting. Hello again, Warden of the Deep Merrisol." He smiled at the two women. "Greetings Rear Admiral Incarnate and Bonesaw Sidonie. I have not heard names like this before. Humans call themselves such interesting things." He thought about his own introduction for a moment, frowning. "Hmm... I understand these words taken seperately. I suppose it is true enough." He looked to Ashby, brow furrowing as he pointed from Deonte to Sidonie in confusion. Finally he glowered slightly. "Humans have far too many names."

Deonte returns with cheeks a shine redder. "My regards, Duke Ashby Mandrake. And all, my thanks for your warm wishes." He gives Sidonie a scrutinizing frown and his hat lean in her direction. "Did you elope with a nobleman while I was asleep, honeycomb?" He points a finger at Sidonie, point point, full of tease and wonderment.

The sheer number of nods and glances for Ruby to exchange rises and rises. Ruby tucks her big funny hat under an arm and offers amicable greetings in return. She favours Sid and Merri, Maggie and Ashby more familiar versions. Those she has had limited exposure to she has some stranger-danger. Ascian in particular, because of how he phrases the word ~humans~, raises her hackles and she gives him the stink eye. That deserves a longer look as well. "What you mean...~'umans~. What you mean. You say tha loike...You say tha loike I should start worrin aboot somethin."

Martin is lost in thought. He had been delayed due to a contact from home. He finds something to eat.
Sol tilts her head and offers a quizzical smile at Sullivan, "I see. Well. I am glad to be spared this horror. There is some nature of whipped confection that seems quite popular, you should try some." She offers a smile to those who arrive as they arrive, "I'm so pleased to see so many arrive. For a moment I was afeared none would attend. She is perched on a chair but slides off and onto her feet to begin to make the rounds.

Long legs are carrying Ashby over toward Sidonie with a very, very Mons walk and all of the energy that had been present in his greeting. Straightaway, he leans in to press his cheek to hers and deliver a kiss to one side and then repeats this with the other! "You look lovely this evening, I must say!" He hears his name then somewhere behind him and looks about to see where it is, eventually locking onto Deonte, "Ah, yes! Good evening! I... er... I do apologize, I hadn't caught your name?!" His head whips around and recognition again brightens his baby blues as the retired cavalier now sees Ruby. "Captain Incarnate! We meet again!"

Sullivan spots his redheaded stepdaughter a little belatedly. Snorkel excision in the air, is a taxing task when your focus can get rather acute. He lifts his bottle in cheers to her with a nod and a swig of it, looking at the neck with crossed eyes. "Adding orange. Genius." And then aside to Sol once again. "Anyway... I would be quite happy to have the aid of the embassy, if for no other reason than a boat of kites would be really quite helpful. Such a resilient lot your lot are. And they sing well. I always found that to be intriguingly odd."

The second time Jessica returns to the Palace to seek out Lord Sullivan, she finds herself lead into the midst of a party. She's a bit overwhelmed by the entire scene, and notices Maggie first. (Well, she noticed Ruby first, but the redheaded Captain shortly thereafter. She circles around the event, approaching the Minosian group and offering them an informal salute and "Good Afternoon Captains." As she finally spots Sullivan.

Maggie makes her way to the current Rebman/Minosian group and smiles a bit. Before she can speak, she hears Ascian's comment and Ruby's retort. Her gait slows to a stop, though she crosses her arms in front of her. Sullivan's greeting is noted and she eases her arms enough to finger-wave under one. Speaking softly to those near her, she murmers, "I need to talk to dad about dad. Excuse me. If I don't catch up with you after that, I will see you all aboard ship." Then, to Merrisol, "I have a few errands in town. I will stop by the house before heading back." Just so he knows. She glances back to Sol and Sullivan, but does not head that way just yet.

Ascian blinked curiously at this response from the taller Ruby, looking up with an entirely placid face. He did however return the regard just as carefully, with Sidonie as well. "You are very tall! The tallest human I have seen. There was a taller person, but they said they were not human." He shrugged at that and tilted his head. "Hmm? My apologies. You have nothing to worry about. I am not inimical to your existence. Indeed I wish to preserve it. It is simply frustrating to properly record existence if everyone keeps having so many names." He almost sounded petulant, stuffing a glazed confection into his mouth and chewing. "Goodness there are many people. Hello Jessica." He smiled and waved a crueller at her before eating it. His arms were full of similar.

"Pleased to meet you," Sidonie says with a polite nod to Ascian. Once Deonte also questions this new name, she looks at both of them and explains, "No marriage, M'lord. My real identity has been revealed. But you can address me by whichever you like, really?" She sees Ruby get flustered at the bronze man, and is about to try to say something calming when she is given a proper Mons greeting. She follows along well enough with the double cheek kiss, and can't help but smile wide at Ashby. "Thank you. You look very dashing, as usual."

"That room's a bit of a maze, too," nods Merrisol, taking stock of the new room they've entered. He's looking the other way when Ashby sings out a name he still hasn't quite lerned to associate with the good ship's doctor, so leaves Sidonie to address her Ducal friend alone at first. Gazing at Ascian, he takes a moment to summon his reserves of patience, then... smiles. "You'll catch on, kid. You only need ask each person how they'd prefer to be addressed, then stick with that. That's what I do... mostly." He looks back around then, to see the cousins catching up. "Hey Hotstuff," he pauses to listen to Maggie, then nods. "Alright."

Sol bobs her head, "There are not so much of us to spare but I will speak with my Aesir and speak of your need. He will be eager to assist I am certain." She reassures Sullivan with a sunshine smile, "I will speak with him, and find you...here at the palace, Or the Embassy?"

"Deonte Julius Brandson." Deonte tips his hat at Ashby with the aside introduction. He beams for Sidonie - or Lhasa. "Well well, only good news! Lady Chantris, who's Captain Merrisol's arm jewel?" He inches his gaze all the way to Maggie. He pats Ashby's shoulder distractedly, "Good lad, good. Bring her before midnight."

"Wherever you find me, lady Sol," Sullivan replies with a smile on his face, catching the fingerwaggle from Maggie and returning a fleeting wink in return. More cognac and shouldershuffling down into the seat. He looks very comfortable there at least - no ramrods shoved up that backside, for sure and certain. Jessica is spotted as she enters and looks in his direction, a toast of his Grand Marnier (in all but name) made with a silent lift. And to Sol once again: "It has been quite a long while, hasn't it? Quite a long while indeed, since hiding in the embassy and having my hair played with."

"You are far too kind, Lady Lhasa! Too kind, indeed!" Ashby grins wildly as he slips in beside her and then begins to scan over the room once more, now from her point of view. Because this clearly changes everything. At this point, he sees the bronze fellow and startles quite visibly! "Why hello there!" His eyes narrow as he leans forward a bit, studying Ascian a bit more closely. Is this some fellow from an odd shadow? Did some horrible accident befall them and cause this? At this point, the name from Deonte strikes him, recognition processes immediately, and he recoils, "By Oberon's beard! They let you out?!" Another step back is taken as he then cocks his head to the side and swats at his ear with a finger. Cursed whispers always hitting at the worst moment. "Well. Unfortunately, it seems House business calls." He turns around to the others gathered and hoists his snifter into the air, "Be well, everyone! Until next time!" A sip is stolen, the glass is deposited on a passing tray, and then those legs carry him right out of the room!

Martin finds Merrisol, eventually. "Hey," He comes up behind the captain and puts a hand on his shoulder. "There's someone I need to talk to very soon about what Corwin was talking about. See if you can't track him down for me? Sorry, I had a call earlier from Rebma."

Jessica steps a bit closer to Maggie, "Captain Flame, I was wondering at a bit of advice. I stopped by hoping to speak to Lord Sullivan about the Pathfinders, but this is rather a bit.. busy. Do you think this might be a bad time to approach him?" She offers a smile to the rest of the group, a mix of recognition and not as she takes in names and faces where she can.

Ruby pingpongs her eyeballs towards Ashby and his Mons exuberance. She manages to grunt another greeting which isn't hostile, but just frazzled. "Zzuubbha...Dook Ashbee?" Back to the bronzeman, she watches with growing confusion as he consumes an edible. The longer she listens, the greater her head tilts, like a ship verging on capsizing and requiring a chiropractor. To Ascian she gives a cockeyed look. She jousts a finger and her mouth works, but no appropriate words are summoned. She thumbs towards her left eye and then finger guns at Ascian, as if this speaks volumes. She adds, "Don't think you can con-found me with strange incantations an words none, Truth. Keep your mimicals 'olstered, aye? I can preserve me own existance plenty good. See if I don't. I gots me eye on you. There somethin too...symmetrical...or somethin. I can't put me toes on it."

Sol ahhhs and smiles warmly, "IT seemed to sooth you. I am pleased you have found your way." She glances toward Maggie and her crew, "I think, perhaps, I ought to greet those attending and it seems as if there are some who are eager to speak with you, Lord Minister."

Maggie glances to one side and spots Martin's arrival, "Hello, Martin." Looking up at Merrisol, she nods once and is about to turn on her heel when she realizes that Deonte is referring to her. She offers the man a smile, though it lingers about her mouth rather than floating upward, "I am Captain Flame, Lord Feldane. It is nice to meet you." Ashby's reaction to Deonte is less surprising than it might be really. Ruby's to Ascian is more surprising. She glances at the bronze man, nods, then addresses all of them, "Please excuse me. I have to speak with Lord Sullivan." Could that be one of the 'dads' mentioned? With another nod to Merrisol, then to the rest, she makes that turn and heads toward Sullivan and Sol. Finally, she sees Jessica and offers her a wave, "Evening."

Sidonie squints a little at Deonte, not quite understanding. Her eyes follow his to the departing Maggie. "You mean Captain Flame?" As for being brought home safely, she gives the new Royal Necromancer a bit of a goodnatured, chiding look, but says nothing. She can get herself home just fine on her own, thans! Then, at Ashby, she contains the urge to kick him in the shins! "Your Grace," she says, admonishment along with warmth in her tone as he excuses himself. The surgeon watches the Duke go, then turns her gaze back to the others. Mainly Jessica, the girl that followed her that day.

Merrisol gives Jessica a familiar nod in passing, stepping aside conveniently to give the women their space, and address Martin as his friend approaches from the other side. "Certainly.. him who?"

"It did. Leaps and bounds from there on in," Sullivan smiles at Sol, nodding to her. "Go be radiant, you're so very good at it," he assures, lifts a finger, crooks it at Jessica and inchworms it in, come, come, come, c'mon, come hither, come hence. He then rises from his seat, primarily for the reason of giving a "Daaaaaaaaaahling!" And mwah-mwahing the air beside Maggie, sitting back down and patting the arm of the chair in a welcome slap of the palm.

Jessica does notice Sullivan's guesture, and it's pretty clear it is meant for her. Somehow that doesn't make her feel better, even though she came seeking him out. She gives a gulp, and nods to the remaining Minosian and Rebman's. "If you'll excuse me." A smile is offered to Merrisol as he steps aside, and she makes her way across the room.

"Ah, difficult to explain." Martin smiles at Maggie as she passes and focuses on Merrisol and Ruby. "But I need to speak with Prince Eric's son Tristan. Sooner rather than later."

Sol offers a sunshine smile to Sullivan and then makes the circuit around the room, making herself easy to spot and intercept for those who're of a mind to.

Ascian continued to smile brightly at Ruby, his head tilting to keep in line with hers. He straightened up as she did, apparently none the worse for wear. "I have heard this complaint before. It has lessened a great deal now that I have begun to wear clothing." He shrugged at that, an annoyance at best. "Ah. I see. I mean a great deal afterwards. Your history you see. The existence of humanity. Someone must remember you, after all." As Maggie came up he favored her with a literally bright smile. He watched as Jessica walked off and shrugged, looking to newcomer Martin, giving him a nod in greeting. There went another snack.

Deonte chokes on his sherry at 'Lord Feldane'. He coughs a dry cough for a few spittles more, hiding his mouth behind his sleeve, hack hrm. He looks to Sidonie with wide eyes. "You mean Maggie Brandatter, don't you. Minosian first, I see. Have you met my father, his Suave Serenity Sullivan Ap'Brandson? He's looking for sailors, see."

Ruby turns her knitted brows on Martin. "I don't think I've ever met...Tristan? 'E must be 'ere though. Cause every bloody femme an bloke an...other things in Amber seems tah be 'ere, Truth. I 'ave seen Prince Eric though." She gives her head a shake and rapidly blinks. Serving a curious glance back to the magnificant bronze Ascian. "Is tha your purpose?"

Sullivan licks one eye tooth, lifting his cognac again, to sup from the bottle as Jessica approaches. He smiles warmly, enough for first impressions, second thoughts and third thoughts doublechecking the facts on the second thoughts to possibly conclude they were right or wrong. "Miss Jessica of Minos, I had heard that there were rumors of you attempting to actually find me this time. I hope you have been well and not falling facefirst into more mindboggling encounters?"

Sidonie nods to Jessica when she steps away, then turns her attention back to Deonte. He gets a nod as well, indicating that yes she means Maggie. A Minosian forever, no surprise there! "No, I have not met him. Though I did meet your father Brand." And that was a frightening enough experience as it was... no need to repeat it! "Is that so? For the Pathfinders, correct?" She quickly glances at Martin, who she supposes is the one Merrisol meant for her to meet. She flashes him a smile, then back to Deonte.

Jessica bows slightly as she approaches Sullivan, "I have had a few eye opening encounters, but they have either been less boggling, or I am just becoming accustomed to the wierdness." She looks over to Maggie, giving the other redhead a smile, then back to the gaunt male, "I have had a number of 'experiments' that suggest I may be related to Captain Flame here, either closer or slightly more distant."

Martin nods at Ruby, "It's unlikely. He's a bit reclusive. He's been spending some time with Princess Llewella. I also need to speak with Prince Bleys. I'm remembering something but I need to get it confirmed before telling Corwin. Not really sure the source I have is all that reliable." He glances at Ascian briefly. Nodding back, clearly there's a lot on his mind. He catches the smile from Sidonie and has one to return.

Ascian looked to Deonte at the sudden fit of coughing, frowning. He seemed about to try to pat the man on the back but stopped, eyeing his hand and the human he was about to whack. Instead, he lowered it and looked back to Ruby, shaking his head. "It is now. In part. But it is not what I was created for no. My purpose is to consume spiritual power and grow increasingly stronger. I was meant to use this to eventually assault Amber, but I have since decided against this course of action. For the moment I am simply content to exist and witness what unfolds. Perhaps when the universe has faded and humanity has gone from all memory but mine I shall continue, and one day tell stories of you to whatever comes next." He smiled happily. "Won't that be nice?" He looked to Merrisol and thought about this, nodding. "I shall do this. Though I will continue to remember all the names. Otherwise I cannot properly tell the story." He listened idly to news of the Pathfinders, regarding this information with curiosity.

Merrisol listens, but the name inspires a facial expression equivalent to a shrug. "..Isn't that Celeste's former husband? Wait, no..." He casts a brief smirk over what he catches of Ruby's and Ascian's banter. Better than puppet theatre. "Well, I'll look him up," he agrees to Martin. "Though you'd better ask Prince Eric directly. Hullo, Sol!" he adds when the newly-minted Diplomat passes nearby.

Sol mingles and makes small talk here and there. Smiling, offering drinks, thanking those who have come for joining though she does not intrude on conversations though she makes herself widely available.

"Brand's not here tonight." Deonte smiles to Sidonie as if he were to offer a gesture of reassurance yet his hands remain still. "Sullivan's busy, alas. Pathfinders, if they want the name, sure. Corwin won't mind as long as Pathi's locale gets reported back. The whole force part is grand gesture for the Golden Circle." He lifts himself on his toe to look at Ascian. "Be nice, bronze boy. Everyone's story matters."

"Aaah, they never get any less strange, you know. Just varigated. Like leaves, or rorschach blots..." Sliding eyes from Jessica to Maggie and back to the less familiar redhead, he tilts his chin up. "Have you been tested for all the apparent variabilities? I'm by no means an expert on lineage testing, but I know what Brand's line feels like when I sample it. That would at least eliminate a portion of the equasion... but of course, isn't likely to be wholely appreciated. I don't suppose I need to note that there's a rather pertinent test of relevent qualifications that is available and possibly terminal, do I?" Says Sullivan.

Sol pauses as she passes near Merrisol and he says hello, "Hell, Captain! IT is good to see you! I trust you have been well?"

Martin's eyebrows raise. "I've lost track of who's married to whom over the years." He admits. "I don't know. He'll talk to me though if he can be found. It is about something a person warned me of, a long while back." He looks between the two people Ascian and Sidonie. "Was there some introduction that I missed? Good afternoon. I am Martin, Prince of Rebma." He greets them. Martin then smiles at Sol.

Jessica tilts her head, "So far... I've the ability to 'feel' magic, though I can honestly say that it feels unfamiliar to me, so I do not think I ever used that ability before, or even knew about it. Master Wulf says I am stronger than I should be for my size... and I accepted a rather foolish experiment suggested by Mr. Black..." She pulls back her left sleeve, showing smooth skin on her forearm, "There was a knife puncture here a few days ago."

Sullivan takes all of that in, looking to the hair, the face, the eyes, the body shape, then beyond that to her forearm where it's exposed as being entirely normal looking. "You stabbed yourself in the arm?" he asks with a blink, mutters something relatively unintelligable and brings his thumb to his mouth. A fang drops down, which he uses to slice open the pad. "Much less invasive," he notes at the scratch, watching it a moment then holding up the blood drop to stare at for a few long moments. Afterwards, he licks it off, showing a pinkening line that soon fades away to nothingness. "Although I'll grant you getting stabbed is pretty much a family tradition, so in that I think you're probably bang on your money."

Maggie did return Sullivan's cheek-kiss of a greeting, but then stands to one side to listen to the conversation between him and Jessica. The woman is given an encouraging smile, but it does not last. She turns a bit to watch those gathered as conversations slide into and out of focus.

To Deonte, Sidonie nods. "I go where the Beast goes, generally, but I might be called upon to help." Considering she might have... well, helped in its disappearance? She really has to talk to Zachary. Sid does her best to not look too amused at Ruby and Ascian's conversation, as laughing at her Captain's distress would not be a good look. "Pleased to meet you, Your Highness," she says to Martin, nodding her head deeply. There's a pause, as she has to stop and remind herself that maybe the name she's been using all this time is inaccurate. "Lhasa Chantris," she says finally.

Ruby eyes Ascian with mounting horror, and then anxiety. The spectrum of emotions eventually downshifts into something that resembles a balm of understanding. "I see. You like tha storytime whale. Cept on land. An no 'orn." She tongues her back molars and takes a deep breath. "I seen swords beaten intah plows, monuments torn down tah make a town, an soldiers turn intah clerks. Gots tah be careful if you eatin stories next. Easy tah choke on tha lies you'd end up swallowin from some in Amber. You might suddenly become...ravenous...for what was originally your purpose, aye?"

Ruby has to jump back in on the conversation for a moment. "Aye, Sidonie 'ere might be able tah 'elp you. Maybe. With a connection tah one 'o tha Red'eads. Oh, this be Doc Sid. Bonesaw. Lhasaaaaa. An this over 'ere is...gonna remember tha last look on our faces when someone pops Amber's booble."

Ascian frowned curiously at Deonte. "I do not understand. I agree with you. This is why I will those stories. All of those stories. After the sun dies and the worlds crumble. When humanity has breathed it's last. I will tell those stories." He gave Deonte a reassuring pat on the back before looking to Martin with a warm smile. "Ah. You are also royalty. Hello Martin, Prince of Rebma. I am called Ascian. I do not believe we were introduced." He looked to Jessica showing off where wounds had been but were no longer. "Oh! How interesting. I did not know humans could do this. This makes me feel a great deal better about the chances of humanity's continued existence in the future."

Privately, to Merrisol, Maggie's gaze often returns to Merrisol in her circuit of the room.

"Well, I was unfortunately out of fangs at the time." Jessica shrugs, "I am unsure of whether or not it all means I am related to the Royals, but until I get some confirmation from someone in the know, I'm not going to go wandering off to this Pattern room whatever it is." She shakes her head and returns Maggie's smile and then looks to Sullivan, "But my pedigree is not why I was hoping to seek you out. I came across your notices in regards to the Pathfinder Society, and it sparked my interest... or at least my curiousity."

Oh that Martin? Deonte almost drops his glass. Hat in hand, he inclines his head for lack of room to bow proper. "Your Highness. Deonte Julius Brandson. Ah... before any rumor has me stabbed for false entitlement, my mother wasn't Feldane." Before he can blunder further his eyes ping to Ascian and pong at Ruby. "Mind you, Captain, if I get my say Ascian and I'll be reminescing together, else I be quite lousy at my job."

Merrisol nods studiously to Martin's final comments on that issue. Then he slides one leg back to pivot and face Sol directly, taking that step back so the looming is minimizes. "These days, I am well," he offers, not meaning to get into the nitty-gritty of the previous year. "I don't think I've seen you for quite a long time, Sol.. or if I did, I wasn't myself at the time. But I would assume you've been busy in the Palace.. Is this appointment something you've been working towards?"

Sol tilts her head curiously and smiles, "I do not believe I have seen you since I left Rebma. I am pleased to see you well. I am recently appointed. My year has been uneventful until this very recent appointment." She looks confused and shakes her head, "No, Captain. I must admit It struck me odd that I was asked. It pleases my Aesir that I lend my services to Amber as they have asked and so I help I may of use both to Amber as well as to her allies and neighbors." She offers a sunshine smile up to Martin, "Hello, Your highness."

"Well, then Kitten. Better spill it forth before that very emotion gets you run over by a passing dog cart," Sullivan replies with a smile, though he looks to Maggie and his eyes fleetingly narrow a little bit. He points two fingers at his gaze and then at her, with a nod that is entirely unhelpful in enlightenment stakes, looking back at Jessica. "Captain Flame here is a card carrying member, or would be if we gave out cards. We really need to start doing that. Or those little laquered name badges, it would make productivity so much easier... anyway..." he inhales, gets himself back on track. "Curiosity?"

Martin nods to both of them, a friendly smile in his features. "Pleased to meet you both. Chantris is a house I am well aquainted with. Any rate, I ..." Then Detonte's greeting. "And you as well. I see my reputation precedes me."

Jessica looks to Maggie when Sullivan identifies the other red head as a Pathfinder, something that Maggie had not mentioned the last time they spoke about the group. "Well, the duties were maddeningly vague. Saving the worlds sounds both exciting and interesting, but the job qualifications don't suggest quite how that would happen.

"Then you would know much more than I do, Your Highness. I only just found out I'm a member of the Chantris family," Sidonie says with a smile. She takes advantage of the moment when she feels no eyes are on her to take a step back and search for sustenance. As luck would have it, something bubbly from a passing server.

Maggie darts a glance at Sullivan in time to catch the 'I'm watching you' gesture. She half smiles, then turns to look at Jessica, "I am sorry that I did not mention it. At the time, I had not decided whether I would return in that capacity or not." Turning, she nods to Sullivan, "I felt that you should speak to dad about it and see if it was something that you would like to do." Her attention flickers back toward the group of Rebman and Minos folks, but whom she settles on yonder, if anyone, is not altogether clear. Looking back, she offers Sullivan and Jessica a smile, "Excuse me? I have some errands to take care of before setting sail again. Please excuse me?"

Deonte turns around just in time to block Maggie's path, a fortunate accident. "My my, apologies, dear sister Maggie. Pleased to meet you in the flesh." He sidesteps back to Sidonie's side. "Godspeed, Captain."

Merri makes a scoffing noise in his throat, "The final battlefield is remarkably desk-shaped. But then, someone with your resolve and winning ways will be needed to corral the shadow ambassadors," he offers to Sol, still half-smirking. He looks over her head towards the rest of the room's clusters. "I wish you all success in this new challenge, Sol."

Melina walks into the room looking about those gathered with more lingering gaze now that she has no particular place to be and no Regent is in sight. Most she sees she has made her acquaintence with though some only recently. prince martin would be the exception to that though she has seen the man twice once at a meeting of the council of lords, the other from a distance when he was crowned, the latter being memorable for its pagentry and not for its personal import. She approaches slowly

"Of course, Maggie," Daughter in law, can call her by her name. She called him dad after all. Sullivan smiles. "We'll talk in a trump, yes?" Soirees are quite hectic for important business after all. He looks thoughtful a moment, then taps into his reserves of energy to hold up a finger and wander over to Deonte, taking his shoulder and reaching around to the man's bag of wax tablet notes to grab a clean one. He ambles back and plucks up a bunch of cocktail sticks from the snackables, resettling into his seat. Prepared it seems! "Shadow is vast and uncalculable in its truest expanse, miss Jessica. However, a great many people can walk shadow to shadow, through means that they appropriate from bloodlines or wisdom. Pattern walkers are the foremost of such individuals, but they're not the only ones. They are however, the ones that can manipulate the substance of shadow in a more permanent way than other people." He begins to explain. "The pathfinders were called such, because they find paths. Sometimes we're a rather boring lot with name charters and such. The duty is to find shadowpaths, repair shadowpaths, restore shadowpaths and forge new ones. That last is the hardest and trickiest."

Ascian listened to all of this curiously, taking in the conversation as it turned to families and lineage. He did nod in response to Martin. "And to you. I am very glad I came to this. No one has tried to club me over the head, and there has been a great deal food and interesting people." He smiled, looking to Sidonie. "Congratulations on finding family. I have come to learn that there is a great deal of importance in this. I have not heard this family name before. Perhaps I will go and visit." He looked proud. "I have learned how to knock and ask permission before entering into buildings. People are particularly angry about that." He looked to Maggie as she headed off, his attention turning back to the others. In doing so he spotted Melina and waved at her with confection that quickly disappeared into his mouth. He reached for another, frowning as he found his arms empty.

Privately, to Maggie, Merrisol's gaze wanders and settles on his wife, monitoring her presence over yonder with the necromancer and death deity. When she looks his way, he lets their eyes meet, then drops his back down.

Sol pauses and glances towards Deonte's way, "Yes, OF course, Fare thee well, Captain." She lets Merrisol go about his way and meander towards Deonte curiously.

Martin wiggles his fingers in farewell to Maggie. He gives Sidonie a reasuring smile. "In time, you'll learn more about them, I'm sure."

Martin listens to Ascian and glances at Melina as she approaches. His expression still friendly.

Privately, to Merrisol, Maggie's gaze meets his, holds it a moment. When his eyes drop, she lifts her chin a little, then lowers her own slowly.

Jessica nods, "Well, if I am a Royal, then theoretically I will be able to traverse the paths. Though I admit I would have a lot to learn to accomplish those things." She considers, "I am looking at joining a crew, and am a bit worried that might limit my usefulness in this endeavor, as I would be limited to the captain's destination."

Maggie's gaze lifts to Deonte as he blocks her path, "Ah." Stepping back, she nods to him, "Excuse me." A glance back to Sullivan and she nods, "Sounds good. Talk to you later." Her attention falls to Jessica, "You as well. Enjoy the evening." Looking back around to the rest of the groups, her gaze pausing on one in particular, she nods again. Lots of nodding for her today. Deonte is offered a quiet sort of smile in passing as she heads for the door and out.

"Thank you," Sidonie says to Ascian. "It does help me feel a bit less unmoored, to have finally found my family, though not being able to remember them is a bit worrysome." She pauses to sip from her glass of sparkling wine, her first of the evening, and continues. "As time goes by, I am sure you will build your own family, the one of your own choosing." She then looks up at Deonte as he takes a space next to her, and blinks as Sullivan makes his brief appearance. She can't help it, when she catches sight of the passing Maggie, she flashes a warm smile to her friend. "So you and Captain Flame, siblings. I did not make the connection until now," she says in a lowered voice.

Sullivan settles the wax tablet on his lap and looks long and hard at Jessica. He then plucks up one of the cocktail sticks and starts to draw her likeness on the wax, looking up and back and up and back several times. "Would you mind turning sideways in a moment?" he asks, line after line excised into wax. Soon the stick is a bit cruddy and he plucks up a second to continue on. "It seems to me then, that until you have a decision made in your mind, that being an interested party is all that you might be -- either that or you should consider the possibilities of starting your own crew."

Ruby curls her tongue and clucks it thoughtfully. Her hand is going for a trump deck to find a particular card. "I need tah deal with a thing. Can reach me by tha usual ways before we get back tah tha fleet." She exchanges a glance with those nearby that will meet her gaze. A sidelong glance to Ascian as she starts to concentrate on the itty-bitty image of a room's interior. She rasps, "Aye Ascian, friendly advise...Not everythin tha tries to wet fingah itself intah your ear'oles be tha truth. Wouldn't tha be 'orrible? Tah etch shite or bloody gospel intah yer immortal mind? Tha would make me sad. I think you find plenty 'o people find solace in what you promise. As you pick up our quaint customs, pick up a piss detector. I 'ear some folk start drinkin their own when they run out people tah whizz on."

Deonte shares an oblivious smile to all. He procures a small bag inside his robes and shares its content with all, starting with Martin. Candy!

Melina returns the prince's smile "Pardon your highness. I hope you won't mind me interrupting to say hello. I don't believe we've met. I'm lady Melina Solaris"' She bows her head slightly

Martin takes the candy but he doesn't eat it, yet anyway. He offers his thanks to Deonte. "Lady Melina." He greets her. "We have not. I've seen you around however. I am not often in Amber these days. A pleasure to meet you." He waves at Ruby as she leaves.

Jessica tilts her head, then obliges Sullivan's request as she turns to the side, "I'd not considered crewing my own ship." She seems to contemplate the suggestion, "If I am able to walk or sail the shadow's freely, I suppose the fact that I am currently poor and living on Mandrake's charity would change rapidly. I'd also considered taking up jobs in a Smithy somewhere or even a tailor's shop. All aspects that feel familiar to me, though the latter two seem to go together in my mind which I find a bit strange."

Sol pauses by Deonte and listens a bit, looking vaguely puzzled before she resumes making the rounds again, meeting and greeting guests.

Ascian listened to Sidonie, tilting his head. "This would be an interesting prospect. Though it seems family has more than one meaning, so perhaps it could work." He shrugged, his attention going to Ruby as she spoke directly to him. He paused in this, thinking hard before nodding. "These words seem... wise. I will take this into account Captain Incarnate. Thank you." Whatever pensiveness he might have had disolved as Deonte's candies came out, and he helped himself to one, looking entirely plesed.

"Maybe you cut a fine line of fashion armour, once upon a time," Sullivan suggests. "For the discerning dillitante or overly rich aristocrat with a foible for rivets in his or her corsetry." He continues to draw; the art is skillfully rendered, but entirely scientific in its accuracy. The sort of line work that would commonly be found in the lithography of a medical textbook, or on research papers from microscope slides. "I trust that you've had words with the Minosian Ambassador? Or is that still on your to-do list, miss Jessica?" Draw, line, line, draw. Then coctail sticks are placed through the skin to mark highlights of bone structure on the image, as reconstructive forensics might produce.

Sidonie remembers that candy. It was terrible! Rather than take one, she just smiles at Deonte gratefully, shakes her head just a little, and takes a sip of champagne.

Melina hms "The same goes for myself and rebma though I find it lovely and would like to visit more often I think. Perhaps I will have such opportunity, though something new always seems to be arising to see to.

"It is still on my list," admits Jessica, "though I doubt she would know of every person who's gone missing from the Isles." She tries not to shake her head too much, "In truth, I am trying to move beyond who I might have been, and focus on who I will be moving forward. From what I am understanding, whatever curse has brought on my Amnesia, it is quite probable I will never recover my previous life. And it seems I have many options ahead of me. Perhaps too many.

"Rebma with her Majesty on the Throne continues to prosper. She does receive visitors. If you wish it to be in some official capacity, the Lady Vialle will be happy to arrange." Martin's smile is an easy one.

Deonte leaves the bag of candy in the care of Ascian, who no doubt will guard it with his life. He appears behind Jessica, looking over her shoulder. He nods to Sullivan's art. "Fear of death, my dear, is needed for love of life. Amnesiacs I've met often lack in the first for fault of past attachements and thus have no likes for tomorrow," he says on a gentle tone at Jessica's ear.

Sullivan's dark eyes flick up to Jessica once more, silence holding sway for a few terminably long moments. "Well, that's a bright way of looking at things. Although it does seem to me as if the menu of life is a little too large for you at the moment, hmm? There's a point where choices tend to get a little overwhelming." He holds up the tablet then, getting some distance from it to consider it and the points of reference of cocktail sticks. "Well, I think I can safely say you're not Brand's. He has pernicketty bone structure. But as to if you're anyone elses? I have no clue at all. Frankly, you could be anybody's. Red hair and magic sense isn't exclusive."

Sol is playing hostess, passing out drinks, pausing now and again to speak with others as she does.

"That is true," agrees Jessica to Sullivan's comment about heritage, "I could even be one of Rilga's decendents with my Minosian Heritage." She shakes her head, "Or not even Royal at all, just an odd combination of traits that may suggest it. Which is why I am going to avoid something that might kill me."

Melina nods "Lady Vialle is very kind. I must make time to speak with her again. It was good to see her well in court today. Always being concerned for others welfare and a proper concern it was. I am pleased that the regent seems to be forthcoming with information on such matters

Sullivan jerks his chin to the looming necromancer a Jessica's shoulder. "Well, enough. I can look at this and some other anatomical studies I have done, but it'll take time to appropriate an answer for you based on bone structure, miss Jessica. You have a necromancer by your ear."

Merrisol turns distractedly back to Martin, only to note that Melina has since drifted into the space. "Ah.. hello again, Lady Melina," he says simply with a nod. "Martin, do you need me to stick around here for anything? I have some business in the city."

Martin shakes his head at Merrisol, "I too must depart soon. Let me know if you find him." Martin's smile is genuine, though his features are schooled. "It is what it is and only through open discourse can change come about."

Deonte is happy to smile and stare past Sullivan, lost in a world of his.

Sidonie's attention is drawn back to Merrisol, and she perks up a bit when he mentions having to leave, and figures this is a good time to go as well. She sets the champagne flute down at a table behind them, then looks at Merri, Martin and Melina. "Lady Melina, good evening. Captain, I should be on my way out too."
Jessica sighs, "I have been trying to ignore him, in hopes he might go away." She steps to the side, "Good evening Lord Deonte. Here looking for people for sale?" She says it low enough that only Deonte and Sullivan should hear the comment as she gives a faint glower at the Necromancer.

Melina smiles and nods "True words were never spoken your highness." For some reason, she looks a touch wistful as she says this "I am glad you could join us today' If you'll excuse me, I think I'll fetch myself a drink"

Martin removes a trump from his collection. "Good evening all. I'm afraid the Queen expects to hear from me on other matters. It was a pleasure to meet youl." He nods around to everyone graciously and focuses on his trump.

Martin notices Sol. "Hey, come find me when you get a minute in the near future." He tells her. "Have a question for you."

Merrisol lifts his hands in a quiet gesture of acquiesence, seeing as how Martin's repeated it at least thrice now, it is either quiet important to him. That, or the shrooms are playing silly bonkers with his memory again. "I'll see what I can do," he promises nothing, then with another nod to Melina, steps away. "Oh, that's handy," he grins as Sidonie flags him down. "We can walk out together, then."

Sol pauses and smiles to MArtin, "Of course your highness. I will send an invitation to The Rebman embassy and you are always welcome to visit the Kitezh Embassy. IT was nice to see you. Fare thee well."

Startled, Deonte moves back an inch. "You are... Jessica. Good eve. I don't buy people, I make deals. Withal, fair trade." He looks at her nose, her chin, her eyes. "Not Brand's. No lines of madness on you." He looks over his shoulder as if tugged by a string to Martin. "Quiet surfs and lavish nets, your highness."
Martin tips an imaginary hat to her then Sullivan, then Deonte, and he looks down at his trump. "Same," he responds. And he is gone.

Sidonie flashes a smile at Merri. That's what she was thinking! With one hand, she grips her skirts, her other arm is stuck out a bit, so that they can escort each other out. Deonte gets a last curious, concerned glance, then she heads on out.

Sullivan lifts an eyebrow singularly at this turn of phrase and glowering that's delivered. "My, my, my," he muses, setting the wax tablet on the arm of his chair and reclaiming his bottle of orange cognac. "Deonte, your past really does need to be redressed with a good deal of social learning. I recommend that you get up to current operating standards forthwith."

Melina fetchs a glass of wine from a passing server and sips at as she half regards those gathered the other half of her mind clearly elswhere as her gaze grows more and more hazy despite having just claimed her first drink.

Sol pauses and tilts her head, "Is all well, Lady Melina?"

Merri also glances about, not so much in farewell to those he never got around to talking to. It's more sort of a confirmation that he never did mean to. Soul-snatchers, grah! He insinuates his arm into something mutually escorty with Sidonie's, and vamooses into the wilds of the city.

--[ Raphaela ]-------------------------------------------------[ idle 1s ]----
Raphaela is tall for a woman, but she can seem even taller due to her rather thin frame. Her movements are graced with an air of an innate aristocratic elegance that only a combination of birth and upbringing can create. Hair is a colorless limp straightness of silvery blond, longer tongues of it licking below her shoulder blades when free, which is not common. Fringe rests thickly just over her brows, curving towards the longer at the jaw and hiding a thin scarr over her brow. Hair is matched with a pair of disturbingly pale grey eyes, silver haunted with spirits of blue. The unwavering will power behind these controlled smoked mirrors is an eerie mismatch to her otherwise graceful, elegant air.

She is dressed in black pants and vest over shirt, knee height boots and long coat with fur trimmings and Sorgo crest embossed over her back.
--------------------------------------------[ female finger trouble-ok/4 ]----

--[ Sidonie ]--------------------------------------------------[ idle 2m ]----
Sidonie is a young woman of middling height with generously freckled, tanned skin and a spare, athletic build. Her dark brown hair is lightened to a golden brown around her face. Some of her hair around her crown has been gathered into a braid, while the rest cascades in glossy waves down to her lower back. While her strong, straight eyebrows and angular jaw can make her look rather austere, her face is softened by large, warm brown eyes rimmed lightly in kohl and a dimple on her left cheek when she smiles.
Perched on her straight nose are brass wire-frame glasses with small, thick oval-shaped lenses. She wears a dark blue linen gown in an a-line cut and bell sleeves, and a silk shawl around her shoulders in a vibrant forest green. Long earrings in green and gold are her only other adornment.
---------------------------------------------------[ female trouble-ok/4 ]----

--[ Sol ]------------------------------------------------------[ idle 6m ]----
The diminutive woman is barely 4'6" tall and a study in svelt slopes and delicate lines. Large gray-green hazel eyes with gold flecks are vibrantly emotive and seem to defy any impression or attempt at guile. A very fine dusting of ghostly pale freckles is brushed across her nose and cheeks but otherwise there is little to interrupt the delicate composition of a face caught in that eternal youth of late teens. Her hair reaches down to her ankles and is a brilliant shade of rosegold, or freshly minted copper though the color may be less distracting than the fact they're allowed to run amuck in willful curls.
She wears only a white sleeveless robe of muslin cotton with a blue sash tying it closed. For somereason there is a severed foxtail dangling from the sash and left to brush across her backside.
---------------------------------[ female finger no-chatter trouble-ok/4 ]----

--[ Dashton ]--------------------------------------------------[ idle 8m ]----
Dashton Feldane stands with impeccable posture at a roughly average height, about five foot ten, with the lean build of an active individual. His blonde hair has a reddish hue to it, teetering on the edge of being strawberry blonde, is kept tight on his sides, but rests at a medium length up top where it falls in rakish waves. Hazel eyes, a mixture of gray, green, and blue, stand out against a backdrop of his lightly tanned skin. A few days worth of stubble now appears to be showing.

Presently, the man sports a woodland green safari jacket with four button-down, flapped pockets on the front, epaulets on his shoulders, and a belt of the same material to cinch it at his waist. Darts on either side of the front provide some shape to the jacket while a box pleat in the back and functional buttons on the cuffs allow for plenty of movement. Underneath, a blue cotton, button-down shirt with the top button undone is visible. Below the jacket, a matching set of trousers from the same green and rugged cloth as the jacket are tucked into a set of brown boots which end high on his calves.
-------------------------------------------------[ male pbg trouble-ok/3 ]----

--[ Aurora ]--------------------------------------------------[ idle 15m ]----
A cold, haughty woman that could be described as comely as she is arrogant. Aurora is a few inches below six feet though the confident set of her shoulders and the lofty set to her chin often seem to exaggerate the impression of her stature though her hour glass figure draws limits to such impressions. Thick mane a rich shade of auburn is neatly pinned atop of her head to reveal the proud arch of her neck and slender throat. A few wisps frame her face that is a pleasing compromise of generous lips and aristocratic features, though mismatched eyes might capture one's attention first. Neutral umber lines both eyes, one a pale jade green, the other a pale cornflower blue, both equally dispassionate.
Today she wears a simple, elegant summer dress a rich shade of creme with a lace overlay of lighter off white over it, a solid off white sash tied just below her bust in victorian fashion. Over her hair and covering her face to just below the tip of her nose as if to protect the delicate woman from the impurities of the world around her is a gossamar thin veil of white spidersilk.
------------------------------------[ female pbg no-chatter trouble-ok/4 ]----

--[ Eric ]-----------------------------------------------------[ idle 3m ]----

A black leather jerkin is laced closed along his chest, though not tied at the top, the sleeves of a red shirt in a style favored by swordsmen seen beneath. Black leggings disappear into high black boots, and a broad leather belt with a gold and ruby buckle holds the sword of the moment, dagger and often gloves for his strong hands. Over all this a black cloak shows off its red lining in the high, stiff neck.
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--[ Bleys ]----------------------------------------------------[ idle 3m ]----
The devil himself dances behind the blue eyes of this flame-crowned man. His features are sharply handsome, and though his chin is slight, it is covered by a fiery goatee that comes to a fine point.
He wears a crimson knee-length sea-captain's coat with big brass buttons and velvet lapels, a ruffly white shirt, black breeches, and heavy black boots. His black captain's hat is set off by a bright-orange feather.
A tooled leather scabbard hangs at his waist, sheathing a golden sword. He wears two huge rings on his right hand and one on his left: an emerald, a ruby, and a sapphire, respectively. His right hand also bears a gold signet ring, with his own device.
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--[ Celeste ]--------------------------------------------------[ idle 2m ]----
A tall woman with a lean, wiry build suggesting an active lifestyle. Long of limb and narrow of waist, she moves with a careless grace and arrogant confidence. The strait line of her nose and fine set of her cheekbones are settled above thin lips with a stubborn jaw line which frame a face which is less than the picture of standard beauty. Steely gray eyes help to give the woman an over all haughty appearance. Thick obsidian hair is brushed to a high shine and left to spill over her shoulders and down her back just between her shoulder blades.
Today she wears attire that is a strange fusion of Amber and what might be Pengali fashion. The outfit consists of a sleeveless duster crafted from charcoal colored silk and embellished with tasteful silver embroidery. The silken duster reaches to her ankles and is cut wide with a slit up the back so it drapes over her hips to billow and swish with her gait. The duster also sports a stiff Chinese collar that is left open to reveal a crisp white blouse, open just enough to reveal the delicate contour of her collarbone. The blouse itself is unembellished, the sleeves slightly billowed and double-buttoned at each cuff. Her outfit is completed by black leggings, which favorable display long legs, protected from just below the knee down by black cavalier boots.
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--[ Vialle ]--------------------------------------------------[ idle 20m ]----

This is a small woman, perhaps five feet tall, with a petite frame and fine bone structure. Her dark hair has been let to grow in long, abundant waves that have been tamed into a gibson-girl-esque puff and bun on her head. The dark hair is held in place with a silvery mesh spangled all over with tiny teal gemstones. On one side, she has afixed a teal rose with a longish feather that arches up and over her hair in a graceful curve. She has a small mouth that often quirks in a smile, and blue eyes that often seem secretive. This impression is enhanced by the fact that she is quite clearly blind. She wears a pendent locket in the shape of a drum with the sticks fashioned of teal stones.
Spaghetti straps rise from the square neckline of the gown she wears. Other than the line of color, her shoulders, throat and upper chest are bare. The square neckline of the gown leaves a certain amount of cleavage exposed, then conforms to her curves from there down over her taut stomach. A glittering, shimmering fringe of beads dangle from the neckline downward, masking but not hiding her figure. From her waist down to mid-thigh, the gown hugs her body like a sheath. A second line of beaded fringe spangles the straight hem to just above her knees. She wears silvery stockings that lend her legs a shimmer. The teal patent-leather high-heeled pumps she wears buckle at the ankle.
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--[ Ryika ]----------------------------------------------------[ idle 1m ]----
Delicately built, this woman cannot be more than five feet tall and slender besides. Her skin is the colour of well creamed coffee with the most faintly greenish undertone to it, as if someone added but a drop or two of green food colouring to that coffee. That green is picked up far more strongly in the rich turquoise colour of her hair that fall in loose waves around her face and down her back, pulled back back from her face with a simple comb, easily long enough for her to sit on. Her face is classically pretty, with high cheekbones and warm brown eyes, full rich lips often found laughing and smiling.
She is dressed in a fitted bodice, hugging and highlighting her curves, the colour a brilliant golden that fairly glows against her skin. Her skirt is a flowing sarong style wrap in an intricate pattern of reds and oranges and golds, flowing around her legs. Her figure more than her size marks her as fully adult, no matter that she is the size of many children. She wears very little jewelry, only a delicate ring upon her right hand, a sparkle of gems upon it in sunrise pattern.
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--[ Corwin ]---------------------------------------------------[ idle 6s ]----

Black as a starless night, this man's hair falls in soft waves around his face and down to his shoulders. Parted on one side, it is combed across a high forehead, softening the lines and gentling his expression somewhat. Quiet self-assurance radiates from his manner and shines in his pale spring-green eyes. High cheekbones and an aristocratic nose mark him as a member of a noble house as much as his confident poise and mannerisms. While his chin is strong, it tends toward narrowness, accenting the fine definition of his lips.
Lithe, yet robust, this man moves with a swordsman's grace and quickness. He wears a leather biker's style jacket with the collar popped to frame his neck. The jacket is left open, the leather falling in smooth lines along his torso and back. A silver rose winks and sparkles from his lapel. Beneath the jacket, he wears a silvery silken poet's shirt with the ties undone, allowing the fabric to fall open and expose the tanned musculature of his upper body. The shirt is tucked into the waistband of his painted on black jeans.
A sword hangs sheathed at his hip, the pommel and hand guard as distinctive as they are mutable. The jeans ride low on his hips, the fabric snug against the length of his toned legs. The cuffs of his jeans are tucked into polished pair of black leather biker's boots.

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--[ Jaymesin ]-------------------------------------------------[ idle 1m ]----
Six feet and seven inches tall, this man is as thin as the proverbial rake. The sharp angles of his pale-skinned face accentuate large eyes of cold, pale blue, and high cheekbones and hollow cheeks lend him a brooding air. His hair is jet black with receding temples, kept short enough to stand on end without apparent human intervention. The rest of his body follows the elongated, slender and angular rule; his limbs are long, his fingers are dextrous, and there's little spare fat on him.

Today, Jaymesin wears neat black leather trews tucked into a pair of well-worn halfboots. A black cotton shirt with laces at throat and sleeves is worn under a black leather jerkin. The buckle on his swordbelt is in the image of a snake. Over the top of his clothing in inclement weather he wears a cloak, jet black wool with a purple satin lining, tailored and proportioned so that it will flare out behind him as he walks. A slender silver chain carries a pendant that remains tucked beneath his shirt.
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--[ Cefyn ]---------------------------------------------------[ idle 22m ]----
Standing at about 5'6" with square shoulders and broad hips, this blue-tattooed woman is somewhere between young and old. Her brown hair gleams bronze in sunlight, her skin is pale and her eyes are blue. Her nose has been broken at some point in the past, but other than that her features are regular, with good cheekbones and a few small scars and blue tattoos that add to her face's character. She is not someone who could be described as beautiful, but inner strength and force of personality animate her otherwise-plain features.

Today, Cefyn is wearing a utilitarian outfit of leather and wool, cut for ease of movement and coloured in shades of brown. With an axe on each hip she's not exactly unarmed, but the brown leather belt holding them is elegantly-tooled in a pattern of whorls and jagged lines. There's little flesh on display, but what can be seen suggests extensive, if not heavy, tattooing.
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--[ Maggie ]---------------------------------------------------[ idle 3m ]----
Hair the color of autumn on fire has been tamed into a braid that begins in whispers over her temples, weaves with other small curving locks, then rushes down her back to just below the middle of her back. The colors flow from red to auburn, from gold-touched crimson to autumn and back again. High cheekbones and a narrow chin give her a fey look, the ethereal otherness augmented by eyes the color of midnight ringed emeralds and skin more golden brown than fair. High brows arch over those eyes, adding expression above the mystery there. Lips the color of cherries twitch into smiles more often than frowns, augmenting mirth or mayhem at need. To cap any outfit, she wears a beautifully ornate white-gold wedding band upon the ring finger of her left hand.
A pale, sea-green shirt begins with a deep V neckline with criss-crossing emerald ties that hold the throat of the shirt loosely closed. The collar of the shirt is a soft fall of fabric that frames her throat. Long sleeves cover her arms, masking her innate strength in their folds. These tie at the wrists with the same dark green as those at her throat. Over this, she wears a chocolate-brown leather vest, tooled with an intricate pattern of flames dyed red curling around golden suns.

Her shirt is tucked into the waist of deeply brown trousers. A sword belt cuts a slash downward to the right where a scabbard holds her cutlass. Another, angling slight to the left carries the holster for an elaborate pistol. The slacks ease down her long legs, cut to sheath the form beneath such that her mobility is not hindered. In turn, the trousers are tucked into the tops of leather boots that come nearly to her knees. These are of a very dark brown leather, fashioned to carry, though hide, boot daggers.
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--[ Deonte ]---------------------------------------------------[ idle 9s ]----
Taller than most and lank, shoulder long straight hair of red, eyes of blue and a long fine nose. The jaw is delicate, cleft at the chin, while the mouth is thin and a tad too large, everything fair and clean shaven. His fingers seem longer than they should for the size of his hands.
An orange linen robe with purple swathes of purple at the colar and hems does most of the work. At the back of the robe a purple snake eating its own tail has been embroidered. A long, matching purple felt scarf with tassles hangs lose at the front. Topping the attire is a long round hat looking as if a top hat and a bowler hat had had a baby, colored in alternating stratas of orang and purple but for a round glowing window at the front. Of course, he has his bone cane.
(Cane: +Token Deonte's FNZ)
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