--Jim Horning
[Compiler’s Note: These are how I received them. Very little editing was done. Unfortunately, I don’t have a big chunk of Paolo’s and Oberon’s conversation, which was actually very interesting, so I cut it out of the log entirely]
As one enters the Green Room, one is amazed and surprised by the beauty of this intimate rectangular gallery that Oberon has converted into a quieter room for Court. This reconverted third story room meant that regular courtiers had to climb a few stairs.
The ceilings that are vaulted and reach up thirty feet seem to reach into the sky and while the stone matches the pale limestone of the walls and flagstones, there is a cathedral like elegance to the thin chamber. Very neo - Gothic in its design. From the high chandeliers there are dozens of white beeswax candles on each while the metalwork is a rough round black iron. From each chandelier the candles form pentagram designs up above.
The long gallery is hundreds of feet long but only fifty feet wide causing it to normally feel closed and narrow. This is defeated by the placement of huge windows along the side that rose almost 25 feet to the tops and were like the ceiling oval at the top and matched the cathedral or French Chateau look of the room. At the bottom of the windows were ledges that could be sat on... though not a good time now.
The windows on the outside could reveal many of the towers and walls of the castle as well as a good view to the city below and the Amber Islands along with the Gulf of Kolvir.
There is on the floor a wide long dark green carpet which led to the throne. On each side was bare flagstones where the courtiers were to stand. At the end behind a red cord was a set of chairs for the Princes to be seated. There was a black cord that bisected the coutiers area according to rank while another cord kept people in their spots and not from walking on the green carpet without purpose.
On the wall opposite the throne were windows that looked into a large reception hall that had many beautiful tapestries and designs. The wall opposite the windows also had windows looking out into the hallway were guards stood, courtiers not invited, criminals for sentencing in chains, others waiting and craving audience.
Behind Oberon's massive throne, set up on a dias of amber stone and below a step of green carpet was a large black granite 20' wide fireplace that had a raging fire behind Amber's dread leige. At the top is a gargoyle of a demon on it.
At Oberon's right is the Royal Flag of Amber. At his left is his Heraldic Coat of Arms incorporating his mother's Kolvirii heritage and his father's Titan, Olympian and Cornelian heritage.
Oberon is wearing a thick green wool robe and underneath is a set of white hose and mantle. He has a thick chain for his robe with unicorns on it. His crown is on his reddish hair while in his hand he has the sceptre and orb. His big zweihander sword is on his side in easy reach.
At Oberon's right is Sir Gram, the Private Secretary. The large iron haired tall man sits at an oak desk and looks intimidating. Sir Gram is dressed in blue hose, a blue robe with a gold chain of office on.
Behind Sir Gram watching everyone is Dame Margot. She has a small notepad and pen in her hands. Dame Margot is wearing blue and gold today and is emaculately dressed.
At Oberon's left is the tired looking Balaam who is wearing blue robes that look way too big for him. His small hands stick out of the rolled up sleeves. He has a chain of office on but it is lopsides and tends to fall off a bit when he shifts. He looks stern too and gives a lot of filthy looks at people.
At all doors and one beside the fireplace on each side, are sergeants at arms of the Royal Household Guard.
King Oberon takes the sceptre and waves it to Lord Chantris at the far end of the hall. He bangs on the white staff of office three times.
"OYES! OYES! OYES!" he calls out in Norman French, "The Royal Court is in session.
"Nobles and Commons and Strangers, stand for His Majesty the King."
(Everyone stands....)
Oberon nods.
"Pray gentlefolk be at ease as you stand." Oberon bids as the nobles and courtiers do not have chairs except for the Kolvirii Ambassador, Throndo Carolingius, Lord Xanthus, and Prince Mandor Sawall, Ambassador from the Court of Thelbane. "The blood of Princes may be seated."
"Her Royal and Feanorean Highness Queen Mirienna," Oberon says,"Is tired and is not able to be with us."
A few elder princes look to each other and grin and occassionally snicker though they stop when Xanthus glares at them harshly. None but Eric hold up under that fierce look.
The Announcer, standing near Lord Chantris, calls out,"Her Royal Highness, The Princess Sabine has arrived at Court for her debut." He is an older man with white hair and a thin body wearing a sleeveless vest with the royal arms upon.
Oberon waits for Sabine to walk down the long green carpet and approach the throne where there is a cushion set at the end.
Sabine's ebony hair has been swept up and back from her face, held in place on the top of her head by combs studded with sapphires that exactly match her eyes. More sapphires have been woven through her tresses as her hair falls in a smooth wave down her back. She is dressed in a full length, midnight blue satin sheath. While simple in design, the spaghetti strap dress does feature a plunging back that exposes her dusky skin down to her waist. Two inch heels add to her height, making her stand at six foot.
"Those heels must hurt." Oberon says,"I hated them when they were the fashion at the Court of the Sunking. Those days the heels all had to be red."
"Are you ready?" he asks Sabine from his throne. "I await your pleasure, your Majesty." Sabine responds in her husky voice as she drops a deep curtsy to Oberon.
"I am your grandfather," says Oberon, but then shakes his head.
The trumpets blare and the drums beat out a rapid beat and then the Heralds will call out:
"Will Her Royal Highness, The Princess Sabine, Countess of Dagobert, do come forth and pledge to be the loyal vassal and subject of His Most Excellent, Royal and Imperial Majesty, King Oberon of Amber?"
Oberon adds,"Oh, and I just made you the Countess of Dagobert." he says as an afterthought.
Sabine rises and approaches the throne, a smile curling her lips. With a twinkle in her eye, she responds "Your Majesty is too kind. I do so pledge to be loyal vassal and subject."
"Thank You, Grandfather." Sabine says as a full smile breaks across her face.
"Are you ready?" he asks Sabine.
There is a great shining silver two handed sword dragging on his hip in a loose scabbard as he comes to you.
He asks,"Are you the Princess Sabine?"
"Yes, your Majesty." Sabine says.
Do you pledge Allegiance to His Majesty King Oberon of Amber and his lawful heirs as such a time as he chooses to select one?"
"Of course, your Majesty." Sabine says.
"Do you swear fealty for your lands of your shire which I bestow upon you?
"I so do swear, your Majesty." Sabine says.
"Do you pledge personal loyalty and vassalship to me, Oberon of Amber?"
Sabine smiles up at her grandfather, "Yes, your Majesty."
"I dub thee Dame of the Order of Saint Germain." Oberon says , "And I guess I should give your county officially too."
"You may arise and take your Seat." Oberon says,"I am also making you the Master of the Royal Mint."
Jessa quietly waits her turn. Her gown, a dark green silk of classical cut, reaches the floor. You can just see matching slippers from under the hem. Her dark red hair is up and braided, held in place, partly, by jade combs. She wears a simple jade necklace and bracelet. The Announcer calls out,"Her Royal Highness the Princess Jessa of Amber, Countess of Julianreach and Master of Ceremonies of Amber. "
Oberon looks at her,"Hello Jessa, are you ready for an assignment?" he asks her cheerfully.
Jessa smiles, her eyes twinkling. She then comes forward, doing a proper curtsy. "It would be an honor your Majesty. And what would my assignment be."
"It is my wish that you could conduct an independent investigation to get to what is going on." Oberon says musing."I wish to give justice to the Crown of Hathor yet I hear differing thoughts and accusations against certain members of the Court."
"You are to go to Hathor both the part Rory took and the part that is still under King Caithness. I want to see you investigate rumours of Haven agents and mercenaries being hired. I want you to report to me. You may delegate another cousin to assist you." Oberon says.
Jessa nods, "I will do my best your majesty. May I have a day or two too decide who I ask for assistance?"
Oberon nods his assent
The Herald cries out,"Her Royal Highness the Princess...schre... Schrevernadze."
Dame Margot interrupts the old man sighs,"The Princess Scherazade." she corrects him firmly.
Scherazade, appeared with her long hair pulled back at the sides off of her face and shoulders. Leaving a cascade of her bangs down her face comming to a point at her jaw line. Her dress matched her violet eyes, shoulderless, and sleeveless. The skirts falling down to her toes, in a semi-modern fashion, with a slight flair to them. A black shrug fell over her arms, ending about knee level. The hem of the sirts and shrug stiched lightly with silver.
She walks up the green carpet to the King's dias where Oberon with his red hair looks down on her. He unlike his time as Amber's first king is younger looking and cleanshaven with green eyes flashing and red hair with hints of grey. He looks to her and says,"Hello Girl. Don't expect me to try to pronounce your name.:"
Then he smiles,"Tell me of your journey to Amber." Amber's dread monarch bids.
Scherazade femalely bowed to his Majesty the King.
"Your Majesty can address me how ever suits your preference." She replied sinking once more in respect.
"The trip was not too full of harships Your Majesty, None so beatuful were thoes of the waters and shores of Amber."
Oberon nods,"That is good. No pirates harassed you or asked for contributions?"
Scherazade, "Nor your most grasious majesty." replied with another short bow.
Then Oberon will say,"Tell us of your hopes and goals here in Our Fair Land."
"I do not now very much about it, therefore my hopes would be to know what Amber is like, as to how to better serve the realm, and crown." Scherazade replied.
"What think you of our wounded and recovering land that was once and will be the most fair?" Oberon asks her.
Sabine catches Scherazade's attention and drops her an encouraging wink.
Scherazade smiles faintly to Sabine, in responce. Covering up any sence of nerviousness that was present. Then she returned her eyes back to Amber's Monarch infront of her.
~Why was I called to court here any way? Was there something my actions had done to bring offence with the court that I did not know about ?~ These questions and more raced through her mind as she stood respectfully before the King.
"If you would not wish to use my full first name your Majesty, what ever you wish to address me as would be fine." "
"Good," replies Oberon,"I cannot pronounce it."
Dame Margot sighs audibly.
He looks at her,"Make Balaam pronounce it properly. That's why he's the nitpicker."
Balaam groans from his perch of a desk.
"Do you know how long it took for me to pronounce a name with two vowels in it. Stupid." Oberon says,"Then again I am glad that Remba is occupied by my forces. I do not want any more names from there that hurt my tongue to pronounce either."
He looks at Scher. "Are you ready?"
"Yes your Majesty." Scherazade said in reverence.
"Good. They I will have you kneel while I ask you to swear your allegiance to My Most Excellent Majesty." Oberon says waving over Balaam to get him the words.
There is a great shining silver two handed sword dragging on his hip in a loose scabbard as he comes to you.
He asks,"Are you the Princess Scherazade?"
( Insert Reply)
Do you pledge Allegiance to His Majesty King Oberon of Amber and his lawful heirs as such a time as he chooses to select one?"
( Insert Reply)
"Do you swear fealty for your lands of your shire which I bestow upon you?
( Insert Reply)
"Do you pledge personal loyalty and vassalship to me, Oberon of Amber?"
( Insert Reply)
"Then I name you Dame of the Order of the Silver Lily and name you as Countess of Dianadale." Oberon then says bidding her to kneel and dubbing her.
Scherazade kneeled, keeping her mind open for some type of magical attack. Was she brought as some example, to be delt with. The others that came before seamed to have others here that knew who they were, but she seamed unreperesented compared to the others. It did not seam logical that someone that had no connection to this place would suddenly be accepted into a high position.
Her head was bowed down, and out of the corners of her eyes she could see the Princes and Princesses sitting there. As she tried to judge some sort of reaction.
Alexis sits quietly in her assigned seat, hands folded in her lap.
Breyd is sat quietly ensconced among the other princesses, her sharp dark eyes swivelling between studying Laszlo, Rory, Constantine and Caine. Her face is closed and her fingers are toying with the Unicorn pendant around her neck.
Oberon then says,"You may rise." after he dubs her,
"Now I am assigning you to assist Princess Alexis in her duties in Amber City." Oberon says,"You may return to your seat.
Alexis looks slightly surprised and sits up a little at the assignment, nods her head deeply to Oberon, and stays in her seat.
High sloping cheekbones and distinctively quick and expressive dark brown eyes add a foxish element to her Celtic features. Her ember-bright, wiry, coppery hair falls to just between her shoulder blades, seeming to have a life and a fire of it's own under the firelight. Her skin seems to have an almost translucent quality to it, like mother of pearl. Her court dress is almost plain by comparison of those around her. No lace, simply a midnight wealth of dark blue brocade, the costliness in the cut and the way it drapes along her elfin form. The only ornament constrasting against the dark backdrop is a Unicorn pendant resting upon her breastbone by a slender silver chain. She seems to be in her middle to late teenage years and short (She probably stands about 5'1-2.)
The Princess Breyd veils her eyes behind her lashes and folds her hands before her skirts as she waits patiently, not even deigning to turn her head to examine those around her.
"Her Royal Highness," bawls out the herald,"The Princess Breyd of Amber."
Oberon smiles to her as she approaches the throne,"I thought they called you Pepper, girl." he says lightly.
"So are you ready?" he asks her patiently.
"Does she have a sister named Saline or Salty?" Corwin asks Julian who gives him an annoyed look.
"I wonder if she met Rory yet," says Caine smirking.
Breyd bobs a curtsy, keeping her bright head lowered for a moment. "I have been called Pepper for a long time, Your Majesty, and it is a inckname used by my friends." The answer is as light as the question.
"Oh then we will call you Breyd, then," Oberon says making a decision.
"So are you ready?" he asks her patiently.
Breyd lifts her bright head, ignoring the peanut gallery as she focuses her dark gaze on Oberon's face. "I am ready as the years have made me, my King," she replies softly, a gentle willingness in her bearing.
Oberon smiles,"I am glad. Dunstree seemed to need another century before he could accept he was a Prince of the Blood Royal."
He asks,"Are you the Princess Pepper?"
(reply)
Do you pledge Allegiance to His Majesty King Oberon of Amber and his lawful heirs as such a time as he chooses to select one?"
Breyd answers as she kneels upon the green velvet cushion, "I do so swear my allegiance to the King and his lawful Heirs."
"Do you swear fealty for your lands of the Shire of Salic Hills??"
"If they are my lands, I shall care for them to the best of my ability."
"I, of Amber blood, swear fealty to these lands. I accept this Fief and shall husband it for my King."
"Do you pledge personal loyalty and vassalship to me, Oberon of Amber?"
Breyd pauses, her brow beetling for a moment. The dark eyes swing upwards in the midst of the ceremony as she examines Oberon's face. "I-I do so swear and aver. Sire, I become your vassal."
"Excellent,"Oberon says,"Now let's see... We need to give you some Knighthood."
He pulls out his sword,"Rise Dame Pepper, er Breyd," after he taps her on the shoulders and head. "Dame of the Order of Ganelon."
He then pauses,"We need to name you to a post," he says,"Let's switch Constantine to be Minister of Industry and make you Asskisser, er, Ambassador to the Kolvirii."
Ambassador Throndo groans.
"Excellent,"Oberon tells her,"Now I will dub thee Dame Breyd of the Most Excellent Order of St. Germain. Arise and be knighted, Dame Breyd."
There's a split second where she wonders if this is painful or not and then she rises like the fiery dawn from the cushion, her hair the ruddy sun over the midnight of the brocade of her dress. The thin shoulders square and her head lifts high and true.
"Good. Now rise Dame Breyd. And yes, I will let you wear gold and pink spurs." after he taps her shoulders.
"Did you know that Katherine Howard had the same sort of dress when she was beheaded," Oberon notices the brocade and reaches over and fingers it curiously.
"And made you into what?" he asks her probing and she sees his deep emerald eyes bore into her.
"Apparently a princess," she replies, holding the gaze steadily. Her chin actually lifts unconsciously as she speaks. "I found that a bit of an interesting, if disconcerting, twist on events. Especially as I have no clue what makes my blood so blue." She leans in towards Oberon confidentially -- maintaining the gaze with a hint of humour in her face-- and stage whispers, "I have noticed a *very* striking resemblance between my cousin Rory and myself, but he was introduced as a cousin."
"You should. Your mother and his father were brother and sister." Looks at Fiona,"And still are."
She looks cooly back at her father unflinching.
Oberon smiles to her,"You were safe, dear," he says to Pepper. "Your father was an elf and not Swayville or Borel or anyone of a great house in Thelbane to further her own Imperial aspirations. Your mother wanted to be Queen of Chaos and plotted and slept with Swayville, Borel, Mandor over there." he points at Mandor, who bows once more to Fiona, then Oberon.
"However Brand outfoxed her and his boys, Kenneth and Blake rule the two kingdoms that were Swayville's unitary state." Oberon says, "Brand has two others sons who are rulers of Creation namely Kirk of Rolandae who has the Duchy of Garnath that I chose to give him as a little boy because Swayville whines a lot. The other is Jason of Neuvo Sangre who likes to put bad girls in custody in a women's gaol called the dollhouse."
Oberon points to Fiona,"I know about her little experiments on my throne and how she had a monstrosity called Richmond. I trust if she wants her precious Richmond alive and well or her precious other inbreed chaosites in good health, she will co-operate with the throne and not be a dominating factor in your life little Breyd."
Fiona's look at Oberon is one of contained fury and she glares at him, then looks to Bleys who is looking away at a nearby tapestry.
Julian smiles to her warmly and she hisses and spits at his boots. He shrugs and continues to look at her.
Oberon glares at Julian and he looks at Bleys' tapestry.
The Announcer bellows out,"Her Royal Highness, the Princess Alexis of Amber, Countess of Caister, Lord Secretary of Amber Public Works."
Alexis enters quietly right after Breyd, and waits patiently to be either called or allowed to walk to a seat with a curtsey to the King on the way. Dark blue silk brocade bodice with silver tracings, high square neckline. Empire waist, and fairly straight but full skirts in two lighter shades of silk. The sleeves are fitted from the point at the back of the hand to the slight pouf at the shoulder. Silver drop earrings, and a bare silver thread with a blue drop at her neck.
As she goes to Oberon's dias, he smiles to her.
Alexis curtseys at the appropriate time to him.
"At least someone is paying attention to Dame Margot's lessons. Is Rory still eating like a starving porcine?" Oberon asks Alexis.
"I am not certain, Your Majesty. I was not paying attention to that." Alexis replies politely.
"Then he must be improving." Oberon looks at Rory scanning him,"Improving a little bit."
Oberon looks to her,"Hello Grand daughter, how are things with the reconstruction of my city?" he asks.
"Bond sales have been good, Your Majesty. So there are funds to get the work done." Alexis smiles back. "Things are going well."
"Good." Oberon says,"Why hasn't the Whipping Post been set up? Or the nose notching gallery? Or the stocks and pillories?"
"Your Majesty, that is not in my authority. Space has been allocated..." Alexis begins.
"Well Dunstree?" Oberon says,"Do my poor nose notcher have to do his business on the back of a haywagon?"
"Poor? For the serice he renders to the people, I'd think him overpaid." [Dunstree]
"I agree. Fifteen shillings a nose notched is a bit much. I think that Patternlands set the standard. Do you guess how much Paolo would charge to remove a body part?"[Oberon]
"Good. I want a good return. I invested a lot of cash with you. I even sold my TKE Blue chip bonds to pay for some of the projects. And TKE was making good money in war profiteering in shadow too." Oberon grouses.
"That is fully planned on, Your Majesty. And to pay off well ahead of schedule." Alexis replies.
"It better, Oberon says,"I am not as rich as Suhuy and his spoiled daughter who can string up stupid signs about washing your hands."
Alexis just nods to the King politely at that.
"Also tell Mad Abigail if she paints those garbage cans pink, I will have her whipped through the streets naked at the end of a dung cart with wild geese pecking at her buttocks." Oberon says furiously,"I saw those and that is not the thing a progressive kingdom like we have should do."
"Perhaps, Your Majesty, she could use a time in the Sanitarium instead?" Alexis suggests quietly. "They might at least convince her to paint them silver or green."
"Why bother?" Oberon snorts,"She does not have consumption."
"It is for more than that, Your Majesty. The Sanitarium has added many different wings, for different things." Alexis explains patiently. "Her taking a rest there might do some real good..."
"I said she does not have consumption,"Oberon says,"She's mad not carrying Tuberculosis. Mad people are thrown out on the street. They call it compassionate in modern countries and say it is the right for the mad people to become homeless and not be institutionalized. I want people to realize that we are more progressive than Haven which still locks people up for mental illness," Oberon says piously defending his pre Bedlam views of madness.
Alexis waits patiently. "A stay means she could get care that she obviously needs, your Majesty.
"Good luck holding her. She's a bad penny. Random tried having her locked up in a Texorami prison last year but she was out of Archie's lockup by the end of the week." Oberon observes.
"If the Crown signs the admittance papers there is much that can be done in that regard." Alexis observes in return.
"Why bother. She will get out anyways and I do not have money to waste on crazy people." Oberon says,"Permission denied."
Alexis nods deeply. "As you wish, Your Majesty. It is a shame to not be able to rid her of her delusion..." she adds the rest quietly.
"I do not care about her delusion. I just want someone to rid her of that troublesome wench."
Alexis looks confused.
Fiona sighs,"Remember what happened last time you said that at Winchester, Daddy."
Oberon rubs his back recalling some unpleasant sensations. "Damned priests and monks. To hell with all of them."
"Agreed. I'm a strong believer in getting to the root of a problem," says Dunstree the former monk.
"Actually, I might even recommend a resolution fitting Grandfather's desire for spectacle. If she was who and what she said, she would be able to walk the Pattern. If not, it would cremate her on the spot. Why not invite her for a walk?" [Dunstree]
"I tried." Oberon glowers,"She made it to the stairs and then vanished. I even had her hauled there in a potato sack and she still was missing."
"Perhaps she needs to be checked for magic...and shipped to a no magic zone?" Alexis comments mostly to herself.
"Why haven't the City gallows been built yet?" Oberon says,"Public Works Amber should be setting those up a month ago?"
"Your Majesty, I have forwarded a plat map to the Lord Mayor's office, showing a suitable location. That cannot be done without approval." Alexis says quietly. "That is wholly under the jurisdiction of the judicial branch. And the Lord Mayor's office."
"Dunstree!" Oberon says,"Approve the construction."
Alexis remains silent.
"Tell Dunstree to get off his arse or I will have it kicked. I am sure Rory will volunteer."
Alexis merely nods.
"Excuse me, your majesty," Rory drawls, standing "but it seems to me that either through sheer incompetence or a combination of deliberate footdragging, contrived misinterpretation of orders, and a bureaucratic paper drill, that Your royal will is being frustrated. You have asked for two rather simple things: the construction of gallows, and their use. You are *still* asking, and being answered with excuses that it shames me to hear. I suggest that there are individuals unwilling or unable to execute your will, and they need a taskmaster - or taskmistress - to instruct them in the simple tasks of purchasing wood and manila and putting them to good use, since it seems to be entirely beyond their capabilities."
Alexis looks at Rory but allows him to finish.
"Rory you have permission from me to conduct hangings just outside the City if we do not get a hanging night from Dunstree. Bill his budget." Oberon says. "I am sure that the attack on his budget would convince Dunstree of his civic duties."
"I'm convinced my civic duties are keeping the peace and improving the lot of the citizens, and encouraging the moral decay that prior administrations have allowed to fester is not that at all," says Dunstree. "Since the King has been monitoring my life the time I was raised outside Amber, he knew perfectly well what my opinions are when he appointed me sheriff. Therefore, I can only conclude that my approach IS his will, until such time as he sees fit to replace me."
"It is my suggestion that Princess Zariya would be an excellent overseer. She is direct, forthright, and willing to use force in the face of recalcitrance. Making her responsible for ensuring the completion of this project seems to be the only way of achieving its completion."
"Rory, Forget it" Oberon says,"Zariya is busy doing a good job in your brothers' lands dealing with their scruffy talking cats. And I thought Olivia and her fifty thousand meowbags were bad. Brand had to outdo Cedric and make his stinking cats talk."
He looks at Rory,"I hear you got a big one that talks to."
"It talks," Rory says, "and chases. It prefers chasing. There are people I would like it to chase."
Oberon growls at Rory,"Keep your goddamned cat out of my Court or it will become a target of lightning bolts and fireballs. Just ask Olivia and Cedric what I do when she brings her goddamned meowers into my court."
"Of course, your majesty," Rory answers. "And while Xanthus would no doubt be delighted by the appearance of a moving target to practice on, it would disrupt court terribly."
"That's a thought. There are a great many stray animals, I ought to make certain that all animals in the city are properly licensed, else put to sleep. Rory, bring your pet by tomorrow. Alexis will make certain he has his shots."
"It will also have to have testing for sentience." Alexis adds. "If it passes that test, then it shall not have to be licensed....but it will have to be registered...as a tax paying resident of the city. Including being able to be called for jury duty." she smiles serenely afterwards. "I found some old regulations for Mrr and other sentient non humanoids still on the books." she adds. "Inoculations may still apply, however."
"As stated, your highness.." Alexis has a bit of cold chill in her voice, "..City planning did it's part. The places were allocated and zoned, with proper eye to control of any potential audience and enough access."
Oberon pauses,"Good. Then I want to see some hangings. Get to it people."
"One more thing grand daughter,"he says thinking,"Make sure that Xanthus gets two sets of doors for his suite. They should both be heavy oak and should withstand the same explosive force of a Haven 20 inch shell."
"Inner and outer, or Main and side, Your Majesty?" Alexis furrows her brow. "I'm not sure if I have anything that's been excessed... even if faced to match the reconstruction, it will be difficult to install a blast door of that type." she looks up at Oberon. "And the walls around them are not rated to that level. Is it being requested to have the Lord Mage's quarters be brought up to concussion shelling bunker rating? That will be difficult to retrofit because of the space it would take...Your Majesty."
"Ask Xanthus." Oberon shrugs,"I Could care less as long as I do not think we are being hit with Rolandae naval bombardment everytime Xanthus plays with sulphur."
Alexis nods. "Better ventilation away from the Royal Suites and Public Areas of the castle..." she agrees.
"You can say that again." Oberon says,"Maybe it could go to Queen Jasra square which is a levelled flat foundation now."
Alexis nods and smiles slightly. "That might be a better solution, as I do know that's almost always downwind of the Castle."
"Your Majesty 'requests' as only the King may." Alexis says smoothly. "Just as the Royal 'we', a Royal 'request' is anything but." She pauses. "I shall have my staff structural engineer and architect begin work on it after court, Your Majesty."
"Save the polite talk for Dame Margot."Oberon says,"This is not the court of Linchester where they still use 10,000 year old Atlantean Royal Protocol."
Alexis merely politely nods and curtseys slightly to Oberon in reply.
"We noticed." Mandor says quietly to a couple of his delegates.
George arrives wear a fine white linen suit, with a smile on his face.
The announcer calls out,"His Royal Highness, the Prince George of Amber, Earl of Oberon Heights, Ambassador to Tanturak and Special Envoy to the Rolandae forces in the Horns of Hathor."
Dame Margot sighs at George's white linen suit.
Oberon looks at George with a squinty eye as he approaches,"I did not order fried chicken, boy." noticing the suit. "Is it in a bucket or barrel?"
He then looks at Geore and sighs,"Did you ever make it to Tanturak or did you spend all day sucking on those mint juleps and plotted with Rory?"
"I don't remember being their, if they have a problem they can find me." George says.
"Your job as Ambassador," Oberon says looking somewhat dark, "is to GO and visit their government."
"You should do it at least once. I need eyes and ears. You leave me blind deaf and dumb is Sarul, Tanturak."
"then I will head that way once we are done here." george says.
"How nice of you to offer,"Oberon says sarcastically then looks to Rory,"Why me?"
"And lay off the mint juleps," Oberon says adding,"I want you without your head in a cloud. You are part Elf and that is filled with gort."
George groans but does, say anything
"I beg your pardon, boy?" Oberon says,"Did you say something?" The Announcer, standing near Lord Chantris, calls out,"Her Royal Highness, The Princess Ja----"
A short slender girl slugs the Announcer. Her various zippers on her black jacket jingle as she punches him. He staggers back with a surprised look on his face.
She looks around. "My name is Jada. Not Princess...or...Empress...or Duchess...just Jada. And unlike everyone else in this room, I am not going to suck up to anyone." She looks defiantly at Oberon. "And that includes you Grandpops."
Oberon looks at Xanthus and Xanthus runs his hand across his throat suggestively.
Oberon glances to Paolo and sighs.
"With a wonderful attitude as yours, dressed up as a Goth Chick, what are you hoping for, a date with Kelson of Brandenberg? or Maxwell the Cat? I think Kelson will want you to whip him," Oberon chortles.
Jada shrugs. "I think all those whimps...I mean guys you just mentioned are gay anyway."
Oberon shrugs apathetically.
"I do not care what your attitude is towards me, girl. except that you obey me. If you choose to be a sycophant, that is your choice. Just know this child, that when I say Jump, I was to see you airborne."
"Got it?"
"You will show up to hanging night tonight."Oberon says,"You have made the people very happy because they get a whipping and a free hanging."
"Jada, you are a Princess of Amber. And if you do not say sorry to that poor man you punched, I will scrounge ten of your dockrat friends and hang them before the end of Court." Oberon says evenly.
She shrugs. "Go ahead. I doubt if I have ten friends anyway."
"I do not care what your attitude is towards me, girl. except that you obey me. If you choose to be a sycophant, that is your choice. Just know this child, that when I say Jump, I was to see you airborne."
"Got it?"
"Yep, I got Grandpops but I never did figure out how to fly. I can swim a whole lot better."
Brey'ds hand flies to cover her mouth, but the barking laughter escapes all the same into the awkward pause. She recovers momentarily and glances at the neighbour to her right. "Sorry, was that supposed to be a witty retort or a threat?" she asks innocently.
"Bleys, after Court, take her out and dunk her until she apologizes to the Announcer." Oberon orders,"I know how filthy the docks are," he ponders,"I think ten minutes will break the insolent child."
"If she gets stubborn and hyperthermia sets in,"Oberon says, "Wait until internal temperature reaches 78 degrees and then let her sit in hot water in the infirmary. With her elven and Cornelian blood that would probably wait until tomorrow morning."
"Hey, wait a minute...what do you mean Elven blood?"
Jada sighs. "Oh all right. If it means that much I will apologize to the old guy...the announcer guy."
She goes over to the Announcer. "I am sorry that I hit you. I hope the swelling doesn't last too long or it is too painful."
The Announcer nods and moves away from her quicklyh.
Oberon looks at Jada,"since you avoided a bath at the docks, how are conditions at my docks? Are you working well with the merchants and with the City?"
"The docks have never been in better shape. I have an excellent relationship with the merchants and the city."
Oberon looks relieved,"The first good news all day. That is excellent."
"Tell me of your opinions of the Amber City now."
"...and tell them to start the site survey for the quarry, and the towers too...and see if Ronan can put that tailor on permanent retainer, he's worth is..."
Rory strides down the hallway towards the green room. His secretary, Padraig, hurries along beside him, scribbling madly on a clipboard. His short, stock stature contrasts with Rory's lean height, and his dull brown fades against Rory's gold and black.
"...and tell Major Cartwright that if there are any more problems, he's to make some examples. No hangings, mind...immolation makes a more lasting impression."
They stop at the door to the Green Room. Rory's secretary bobs his head and scurries away. Rory straightens the cuffs of his pale grey shirt, and checks for dust on his glossy black boots. He grins and strides into the Green Room.
The light glimmers on his golden sash, and the gold embroidery on his black vest. He favors those assembled with a comfortable, almost smug grin as he makes his way to his seat.
"His Royal Highness The Prince Rory of Amber, Ambassador to Koronande and Hathor..." The announcer says.
Caine looks to Gerard and just snickers. Gerard glares at Rory.
"Duke of Amber Islands, Earl of Hiram." continues the Announcer.
Oberon seems pensive,"Yes a Cabinet shuffle is in order."
Caithness just glares at Rory viciously as do his two sons present,"Your Majesty,"Caithness bawls out,"I declare that redhead, Persona Non Grata and should remove his carcass from all of Hathor including the part he stole from us in an insurrection and invasion."
"Calm down, your majesty, or you may get Dunstree. I keep the Mumukans in their proper place, but *he's* planning on arming and training them for military operations in Hathor," Rory says. "Dirty Mumukan barbarians, trained and equipped with modern weapons, and led by a price of Amber. You know their bestial nature. Why, they'd slip the leash of command and rape their way up one side of Hathor and down the other. I shudder to think of it."
[Rory] shudders.
Oberon cuts in,"Rory, don't you know? Caithness is not a Majesty in Great Power Courts. He is only a Royal Highness. Where's Margot? You explain it."
She sighs"I will use smaller words Rory to not confuse you," she purses her lips,"Caithness is a lesser monarch in Amber. Oberon is the main king or King of Kings. He gets the Majesty in here and international courts while Caithness ranks like the Colmar of Rosepatch in respect to Haven."
Oberon nods,"Though Kelric lets him use the title majesty in his court. That boy always was too soft. Or he's trying to suck up to Colmar's Mother Coral and his grandmother, Dara."
Oberon ignores him and says to Rory,"What do you have to say for yourself, boy?"
"Bad map projections, your majesty," Rory answers, "and worse geodetic data. You know, *none* of the lines on a map or globe are real. They can change depending on geodetic and projection. That includes the border of the Horns' military reservation. We're looking for the actual border in line with the new geodetic information." He pauses. "The jungle is a dangerous place. I decided on a recon in force."
"Speak Tharii." Oberon cuts in,"What are you really saying? Spare me the Merlin-Corwin Speak."
Rory gives Oberon a 'you asked for it' look.
Oberon looks at Rory, waiting for the rejoining comment.
"Your Majesty," King Caithness bawls out,"That redheaded whelp forgets that he invaded Hathor land. A land that is protected by the Crown of Amber and he seeks to award it to an upstart. We are calling on you to uphold your treaties and protection most royal and imperial."
"After today's ouburst, I would recommend that another object lesson may be in order."
Oberon listens,"I will await the report from my Commissioner, Jessa."
"The matter is closed until then."
"Your majesty, one of Caithness' ill-conceived get showed up at the Horns of Hathor demanding that we give the forts back to him. This punitive expedition was intended to teach him that Hathorian petty nobility does not submit demands or orders to the royal house of Amber," Rory says. He gives Caithness a speculative look. "After today's ouburst, I would recommend that another object lesson may be in order."
Gerard says,"He has not visited Koronande at all. Si Maelstrom wants to know when his Ambassador is ever going to make it. He is used to Laszlo opening up fast food franchises but not a redhead."
Julian snorts,"He can thank Rory later for not showing up."
Si Maelstrom gives a slight smile and just bows his head to Oberon.
"His Highness, Prince Laszlo of Amber, Earl of Meriovis, Postmaster General of Amber." the announcer calls out upon Laszlo's entry
"Earl of Wettin, actually," Laszlo corrects.
The embarrassed announcer corrects himself immediately. Oberon flashes Laszlo a grin.
Laszlo wears black trousers with a gold stripe running along the seam with a forest green jacket, the polished gold buttons showing the emblem of the Postmasters. The jacket is done up to the neck, the stiff collar giving only the hint of a cream ruffled shirt beneath. As usual of late, he is wearing the sabre the king presented him, and the golden spurs of the Order of Ganelon, which jangle on his mirror-finish high black boots.
Oberon sees him come in and then smiles,"Oh Laszlo... Did you catch any highwaymen?" he asks him.
"One or two." Laszlo replies modestly.
"Catch harder." Oberon tells him, "Rory may see this as another commercial opportunity.:"
Julian snorts derisively from his seat in front. "How are those roads going?" he asks,"Did you work out a deal with Alexis to get them going faster."
Laszlo studiously ignores him.
"You would never believe this." Oberon says in mock piety,"It took a letter thirty days to get from Merlin City to the Garnath border. Not only that but a messenger I had incognito is still trying to get through the roads to that route and I think he is bogged down waiting for a permit in Saltspray Beach."
"A little preparation goes a long way, Your Majesty." Laszlo replies.
"Such as making the roads better." Oberon tells him,"Rolandae engineers opened a new road to Cymnealand yesterday in five days. They can run their tanks up and down it without much wear and tear.:"
Oberon adds,:"Make sure our roads are not THAT good. I want them weak enough to bog down their tanks which they should not be having in our land or I will kick them in the arse."
Princess Zariya arrives at court wearing a cloth-of-silver dress, highlighting her dark skin, in a fashionable Amber cut. It is off the shoulder and cut low. Along the sleeves and bodice of the dress is golden embroidery. Instead of wearing a necklace, she wears a choker made of silver with a blood-red ruby set in the middle of it. Her hair is braided, with silver ornaments throughout the braid.
"Her Royal Highness, The Princess Zariya of Amber, Countess of Viallevale, High Commissioner to the Duchy of Garnath and Ambassador to the Kingdom of Neuvo Sangre."
Oberon notices her,"Hello Girl, How was the trips to Garnath?"
Zariya curtseys deeply to Oberon, "They could have been smoother, most honored Grandfather."
"I imagine that Kirk was highly displeased when he learned of your arrival to his Amber seat." Oberon chortles, "I wish I could have seen his face when his fleabitten cat reported your visit to him,"
"I would have given much to see that as well, your Highness," Zariya replies. "Alas, I have not had the opportunity yet to meet him yet."
Oberon looks at her thoughtfully. He runs a hand through his coarse red hair as he thinks." Why ever for?"
"It seems that they think that treating with the Mrrr is good enough for your High Commissioner there," she replies. "I did not see him in attendance during the audience that was granted to me."
"You were lucky. That red Siamese thing is a menace."
"How come you did not go see Jason and his Mrrr. Did you know Davis the Siamese Mrrrr and Rowan the Tabby Mrrr are both hard core Brandites but hate each other."
"I have not seen Jason and his Mrrr yet, but it is on my agenda after this engagement," she replies calmly. "I have every intention of making both places my home for at least one month out of every year and perhaps longer if it seems necessary."
"To handle King Jason, you must need to laugh at his jokes," Oberon says,"To handle HIS Mrrrr just insult Davis. They despise each other more than us."
Zariya inclines her head, "Thank you for the advice, most honored Grandfather."
He waves it off with his hand,"Davis is as big a glutton as Rowan as are all Mrrrr but he uses sorcery and I think that red Siamese does the technicolour yawn after he gluts himself." Oberon says matter of factly,"I Hope in fact that all Mrrrr puke themselves to death."
"Don't you?" Oberon asks trying to catch Zariya off guard.
"It is a great shame to die by gluttony," she replies. "And long and painful if the gut should explode. I would only wish that upon my greatest enemy."
"Don't worry,"Oberon assures her,"They will work hard to become your greatest enemy."
"I am quite sure they will not have to work that hard," she replies.
Stephen arrives dressed as follows: White brocade doublet over a black silk shirt with small black ruffled collar; black trousers tucked into low white boots; black velvet rolled brim cap; court sword worn on black swordbelt with silver fittings; full length owlfeather cloak w/ black velvet lining, draped primarily over right shoulder; white silk gloves. The one touch of color is a silver and red enamel cloak pin.The cloak is handed to a servant upon entrance to the audience hall.
"His Royal Highness, The Prince Stephen of Amber, Secretary of Trade and Commerce, Earl of Pepin." the announcer calls forth.
Oberon looks at him,"Do you know that Rory, Alexis and Laszlo have been looking for you regarding Amber Trade. Have you been to your office and dealt with the paperwork on it."
He looks to the three,"Have you really tried to find Stephen and sent me your paperwork which I sent to Stephen anyways."
"Regrettably, my itinerary does not allow the time to look for missing Ministers, Your Majesty." Laszlo replies. "If the Secretary of Trade is intending to stay a while, I will arrange an appointment with him. There are matters we need to discuss."
Stephen bows deeply. "Your Majesty, I give no excuse, only the explanation that my seeming absences were probably due to my long hours spent in the file room, trying to fathom the contorted system of organization used by my predecessor. It seems he left a good deal of basic matters undealt with.
"I regret the lack of availability this has resulted in, and hope that my cousins and I can indeed work together for the betterment of Amber. May I suggest that the four of us repair to my office directly after this court?"
"Good luck," Oberon says,"But I want you to try."
Dunstree has clearly survived many battles with his valet. It's not clear yet who won, although his valet has been known to mutter phrases such as 'teaching hand-to-hand combat to dolphins.'
Dunstree wears an elegant, if simple, Edwardian suit of grey, with pearl stickpin in his cravat and pearl cufflinks. His shirt is a deep blue. He also carries a walking stick, with pearls set in bronze around the top.
After Dunstree bows, Oberon says one word,"Hangings?"
"For capital crimes, with proper solemnity," Dunstree replies.
"Capital crimes according the ancient laws of Amber,"Oberon clarifies,"Not according to the Duchy of California."
"Zariya's apprenticeship program actually reminded me of a group I'd met in my travels before coming to Amber. An Executioner's Guild. They prided themselves on professionalism. Their members were trained in not only knots and the proper maintenance of swords and axes, but also in poisons, painless and otherwise, and even in law to ensure that all was done professionally, from the receipt of the warrant to the execution itself to the interment of the remains. Given the sort of human sacrifice Rory seems to be offering, I'm considering inviting that Guild to open a chapter in the City to ensure that the unhappy business is no worse than necessary."
Oberon humms and rubs his chin with his seal ring,:Make it so. Just get some good hangings by Beltane."
Jared arrives in dark blue courtier's robes suitable for someone of his station trimmed in silver. Apparently, he's been doing some research on the type of fashion prefered by Dame Margot and (hopefully) Oberon. He glances about the room but generally acts as though attending a King's Court is nothing new to him at all.
Oberon sees Jared as he approaches the front of the throne room and after Jared bows, Oberon looks at him and says,"So Jared, what have you been doing to serve Ourselves and Amber?"
"How is your work with the Council? You are the Secretary." Oberon notes.
"I must confess, your Majesty, that I have been spending my time researching all sorts of matters pertaining to the Realm I have also been waiting for the chaos of events to settle down somewhat. I believe that I am now sufficiently prepared to take up the duties that you have lain before me. Is there a particular area in which you believe I should focus my efforts?" Jared replies.
Oberon ponders,"You should co-ordinate the various regional councils and see that they eventually meet. As well, the Privy Council should meet once in a while to do some work that I am too busy to handle."
"Oh yes, get some more hangings while you are at it. Dunstree is allergic to hemp."
The doors to the Green Room open and a man steps inside stopping and glancing at the assembled. His glance as he is announced hesitates at Dame Margot, and his eyes narrow slightly, then passes...
"May I present to Your Majesty, Prince Alvin of Amber"
Alvin steps out smartly, and in his stride a confidence. He is 6 foot tall, with short black hair. At 180 pounds, he looks thin, yet his posture is perfect. His tuxedo is black, with blue trim, and black leather shoes. Saphire cuff-links and a simple gold ring set with a saphire are his only jewlery.
When he reaches the King, he will meet Oberons eyes and bow. "A pleasure to see you, Your Majesty," then "Grandfather" His deep voice carries perfectly, and is pitched well.
Oberon looks at him curiously,"How was Balaam for you? Did you learn your lesson?" he asks pointedly.
"Balaam, your Majesty, has a waist of time. I do admit that I could have handled the lessions better. Truly, I was unaware of the intent of my summons, nor the "House Rules".
Oberon turns to Gram ignoring the complaints,"I wonder if there is Chaos blood in these ones?"
I was making converation, and was treated wrong in that respect. If told to sit down, and shut up, and waite for the lessions, I would have done so.
Oberon leans over and slaps Balaam on the back - hard. Balaam almost loses his internal organs.
"Good for you, Balaam. I fully expected you to be a miserable son of a bitch for that whelp."
Balaam is coughing and sputters out,"Yes, Sire."
Yet some of what happened was humours, with respect to missing food." Alvin says with touch of a glitter in his eye." He turns to Dame Margot, and says " I do regret that I missed your lessions, and caused a difficult class to be more of a challege than it should have been for you. If perhapes, I could make it up to you? We could schedule some time to go over some "read-a-head material so that confusion on house rules could be clearly stated, and your intent for the lessions made simple for us in the future?" this with gentle smile. "My work with Balaam although interesting at times, didn't help your Majesty, as I was aware of the error in communication before I arrived in his office." Alvin says
Dame Margot is silent and stares without blinking at Alvin.
Oberon looks at Dame Margot,"I accept your decision. He needs more lessons."
He turns to Alvin,"I think we should not bestow anything on you yet. I am going to assign you to be Alexis and Dunstree's Executive Assistant."
"Alexis, Dunstree. I want him with one or both of you for at least 10 waking hours every day to assist and help you and to be at all your meetings with one another."
Balaam glares at Alvin and then looks pouting at Oberon.
"Dame Margot, why has this boy not worn Court Clothes?"
"With respect Grandfather, That would my fault, as I'm sure it was covered in class." Alvin says
"Boy," Oberon says,"This is not Haven or Thelbane. Retire from Court immediately and return in Court Clothing."
The guards will escort him to a robing room with Dame Margot...
Alvin bows and leaves.
Bishop arrives wearing a dark green, long sleeve tunic with vest and black slacks. He has a tight belt and alligator-skin boots. A cloak flows behind him as he walks.
Flora sighs,"At least he is not wearing alligator skin pants."
"His Royal Highness the Prince Bishop of Amber." The announcer calls out,"Earl of Lothario and Solicitor General of Amber."
Oberon grins,"I like post facto cabinet shuffles." he tells everyone.
"So Bishop," Oberon calls out to him," What have you been doing>? Did you go to Ardor and explore?"
Bishop bows. "Quite interesting, that, eh. I remember going to Ardor, but the interesting part is I don't remember what happened. Blimey. A wee bit of forgetfulness on me part. Forgive me, my Lord. I shall have to return and finish that which you required of me. Some nasty things in those dark parts of Creation, eh."
"I think Zariya needs a hand in his efforts in her areas. Seek her out and give her some help." Oberon says,"Better yet, Zariya, talk to Bishop here about how you can co-operate. Besides you are related."
Sonagh is arrayed in oriental silk ... black trousers, bound at the ankle and a white blouse, tied at the neck. Those few who have met him before will notice his hair, brown, is much shorter and he now sports gold wire framed glasses. The final touch to his wardrobe is a long and lavish, high collared saffron brocade jacket liberally decorated with deep green ivy lining the hems and clustered about collar and cuffs. He has the look of both an oriental despot and a late renaissance scholar ... and is total defiance of his earlier, more mundane, dress and deportment.
The announcer calls out,"His Royal Highness, the Prince Sonagh of Amber."
Oberon waits for him to advance to the throne and after Sonagh bows he says,"Greetings Prince Sonagh. Son of Benedict."
"It is Our wish that you tell Us about yourself."
Sonagh bows low, sweeping his arm before him. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I believe the simplest way to describe myself is as a man who is eager to learn the full extent and of his heritage. I've spent many centuries living in secret, not knowing the full extent of my history."
Nathan will arrive for court, dressed in a loosely cut pale green jacket
with saphire blue buttons over a white shirt with a blue belt at the waist, black trousers tucked into highly polished black boots that stop just before the knee. A rapier hangs from the belt on the right, balanced by a long dirk on the left.
"His Royal Highness, the Prince Nathan, "The announcer calls out.
Oberon looks at Nathan,"How be you, grandson?"
Then he adds,"So, boy, are you ready to start working for me?"
"His Highness, King Caithness of Hathor with Princes Jellicoe and Hector."
King Caithness of Hathor is a white haired man with a height of six foot five. He is wide and has tanned skin. His blue eyes see a lot and he has a thick signet ring on his finger of a waterpolo ball and net. He gives a neck bow to Oberon as he approaches.
"Your Royal Majesty," Caithness says in a hoarse sounding voice with a folksy sort of accent,"We have been allies of Amber for centuries. We helped them and the Guild bring down Ardana and her Court years ago and the Hathorean people have had excellent trade with our relatives in Amber."
"We are the only humans in Ardor." he says making a controversial statement. "And the only monarchy untainted by the Court and the only civilization in Ardor."
"What about the Mumakan?" asks Caine interrupting.
"They are not human." Caithness says bluntly with the full racism inherent.,"Hathor is a hardworking land of decent people who love life and have been the victim of renegade harrassment of certain princelings and pretenders. They have seized our Southern Province, conducted open treason and invasion and insurrection in our lands."
He turns and points at Rory, then Ferris, then Laszlo then George,"This gang of four have committed these crimes against my people and the Crown of Hathor."
"I officially protest Rory's importation of Mumakan cattle to work in plantations in occupied territory. They are not suitable caged up and may touch the sacred Hathorean motherhood." Caithness says.
"Where's da white women?" Caine says merrily imitating a famous line from the movie Blazing Saddles.
"This is rough,"Gerard says,"I dislike this guy as much as I dislike Rory. Both are odious. I cannot choose whom I should back."
"Me neither," Julian mutters."I should wish a plague on both Rory and the Hathoreans. I know how they sucked up to Osric when Finndo and Brand infested the area. A number of them joined Adamant and considered Thule too moderate."
"I thought they were pretty stupid," said Caine."I mean even the Mecklenbergs could not make real soldiers out of the Hathorean lazy beach bums."
Caithness intoduces the Crown Prince Jellicoe, a blondish man with a big jaw and with fine Amber style robes and cape even pointed shoes from Amber shops importing old Thelbane demonwear. Then he introduces his second son, Hector, a dark sandy haired man with a fringe beard around the mouth and moustache.
Hector bows politely to Oberon then Jellicoe remembers and half bows to the King.
Oberon looks bored and bounces the orb up and down pensively. He says to Caithness,"How well were your ships from New London getting around Rory's pitiful spies in Neuvo Sangre? Jason caught most of them so Rory's pirates should not have been successful."
He looks to Rory apologetically,"I am sorry grandson... privateers, I mean."
"Rory and the rest of the 'Gang of Four," Oberon says,"What do you say for yourselves?"
The Haven Ambassador and a press attachee look around to the Ambassador from Neuvo Sangre and to the Ambassador from New Kashfa.
The Ambassador from NS turns out to be a VIP...(OOC: *now* you guys are gonna get it!)
George with a smile on his face says "utter Bullshit, I don't evven know where his piss ant contnry is, so how can I cause trouble their. And it is JUST a shadow of Amber so why bother. He is just trying to cause trouble because he can't get any, and his sheep run away from him."
Caithness explodes,"That is bullshit," he says his fair old face turning red,"That is utter bullshit. He was involved in a raid in Hathor with Rory and Ferris where they were in secret tunnels under the palace and the Royal Secretary ran into them and because he is so silly, he started to chat with Ferris as if nothing ever happened."
"That twerp in the white jump suit has been a frequent visitor to Ferris' mock capital in the Southern part where Ferris is building a palace that is ten times larger than my Tanith Palace." Caithness says bluntly. "We know about the Mint Julips shipped in for his addiction," pointing to George," Julips are a fundamental ingredient for elvish drugs known as Gort. And I understand that Colonel Sanders there is a gorthead and a half elf."
"Who I talk to is really none of your business, just like what you sleep with isn't my concern. " George smiles
Caithness sputters in outrage,"Your Majesty," he turns to Oberon, "I am an allied monarch and am entitled to some respect."
"Be nice," Oberon chides George, he looks at Caithness,"Your Highness is in danger of losing his cool and his pantaloons."
Caithness sputters some more,"Your Highness," he says bowing his white hair and raises it,"I am so filled with righteous outrage at what has befallen my beloved homeland because of a handfull of your grandsons who for their own selfish desires and blood feuds with the Court of Ardor, seek to embroider Wonderous Hathor and yea, even your Amber into a rapture of war and rebellion."
"The King of Caithness is poorly informed," Laszlo replies. "I've never raised so much as a finger against his people. If His Majesty wishes it, I can review that situation."
"Laszlo Fair, I love the way you use language," says Jason the Mad, who figures he can be Ambassador from his own Kingdom of NS if he chooses. "You don't have to raise a finger to drop an iron boot."
"I hope it please Your Majesty I have done neither," Laszlo replies cooly.
"It pleases Myself that,"Oberon says firmly,"That I want to see the Jessa Report before I get into a spat between Brand's children."
"You are helping Rory's efforts and are sucking up to the Koronande scum.," Jellicoe says smugly.
"There was no law against diplomatic missions, last time I looked," Laszlo responds.
Jessa turns, "and that is why his Majesty has asked me too look into what is really going on. I ham not a member of the "Gang of Four", so I can be unbiasts. I am sure we will be talking soon.":
Oberon flashes her a smile,"Good for you, Jessa."
"Let the record show my objection to being bracketted with these other princes most unfairly. I am my own man, and don't like being compared to some Chinese has-beens." Laszlo protests.
"That is true," Caine quips,"Mao's widow never had to hang out with Rory before."
"If crimes have been committed against the people of Hathor, it's news to me," Rory answers. "And some may say that the greatest crime against the Crown of Hathor is its current usurpation."
"And if you insist on repeating it, you say it yourself, Roritania. Do us all a favor, stop hiring privateers and start hiring publicans. Make beer, not war."
"Paolo, I see Jason has come by too. Both of you are the only Chaos bloods who are in the region." Oberon notes,"Jason still has NS whose iron works and manufacturing is most helpful to Amber's reconstruction."
"Well Jason, this is most fascinating,"Caine says,"I see there is little unity in House Brand. Do you know that Rolandae has been hatching secret deals with Rory while Haven opposes Rory?"
"It's a strong house that can hold a divere family, And yes, it's reliably reported Rolondae reckon Rory's reclamable, really -- raspberries!"
"I see foreign meddlers in Hathor politics. Nothing more,"Caine states.
Oberon shrugs."Let's hear what the Jessa Commission will report before I do anything."
Caithness looks at Rory,"The red headed devil spouts his tales of the twilight zone. Did he pray tell learn his ability to lie at his red headed monster of a father's knee?" he asks.
"That redheaded beast has invaded Hathor, proclaimed a Pretender as King and seized my poor southern province and installed work camps where he is using dirty Mumakhan to do work that my unemployed Hathoreans could do but would not because Rory is not paying his Mumakan animals."
This text is copyright © all the players of Equinox; "Amber" is copyright © Roger Zelazny; "Amber" the diceless RPG is copyright © Phage Press. No copyright infringement is intended.
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