FollowingInFootstepsIndex Following in Footsteps Now that court is over William glances around to make certain that his three companions made it to court, and haven't gotten themselves into some difficulty from which they shall have to be extricated with finesse, force, or a combination thereof. Through the throngs of people leaving, the profiles of Kiathas, Valric and Devaine stand out... "Praise the Gods...or this Unicorn you worship here, anyway." Devaine says, stepping forward from her two compatriots toward William. "You were brilliant, by the way. Charmed his Majesty with the aplomb we all know you have. We need some of that, Guillaume." "Our dear Valric here has decided to emulate you and has been challenged to a duel." Kiathas gives a resigned nod, and Valric, saying nothing, looks defiant. Devaine continues. "A matter of honor, as you might guess. What are the rules for *non* royals dueling here?" "As in all things, it depends. Who is it, and what is the cause?" Some of the people around the group look curiously at William and his companions. In the main, though, the four of them are ignored as Court continues to break up and fragment. "It was a woman." Valric says quietly, just loud enough for William and the trio to hear. "He can't hear you." Kiathas says. "I could barely hear you." Valric doesn't look at Kiathas, instead looking up at one of the balconies. Devaine shakes her head and takes a quarter step ahead to speak to William. "Your own success with the lovely nurse inspired Valric here." Devaine explains. "While down in the city, he made a not unwanted advance on a lady of apparent quality. Or so the report is from Valric." "Her betrothed, though, took offense at this once he emerged from the drinking establishment where he had squirreled himself and left her to her own devices. Valric refused to apologize, and the man, some petty nobleman. House...? "Karm" Valric says glumly. "This scion of House Karm challenged him to a duel at sunrise. At some place called the Grove of the Unicorn." "Combining your experience with your cousin, and the nurse in one neat package." Kiathas says. "We are ordered from here on the morning tide," Williams points out reasonably. "You know well that personal matters must give way to duty. Let us take ourselves immediately to the fellow's estate..." William frowns for a moment, trying to place the Karm family, "...and we shall explain it to him, and point out reasonable and calmly that the duel must wait until we return, or, if he refuses to wait, he can be thrown in a dungeon beneath the Castle for obstructing a diplomatic mission, and when we return he can be released and then fight the duel. A fair choice, it seems to me." "If he decides to be reasonable of course." Valric finally says. "Kiathas here tried to invoke your name as a reason to break up the heated words between myself and the gentleman." Devaine gives a nod of agreement with Valric's story, and lays a hand on his arm now that Valric seems ready to actually explain himself. "His efforts, if anything" Valric continues "just made the man more determined to fight." Kiathas makes a moue of disgust. "Politics here are more complicated than we thought." Kiathas picks up. "You and your family's lot likely care not so much for the noble houses beneath you, but apparently these popinjays think a lot of themselves. It's funny to see Valric caught on the talons of their ire, but if it does mess up your plans and ours, its less amusing." "God help us if your humor at my expense is unduly impaired by the local culture, Kiathas." Valric says. "Interesting," William says thoughtfully. "I see four possible explanations for all of this, ranging from the amusing to the sinister. Well, then, has everyone finished all preparations for the journey? If so, let us be off to the Karm estate." William glances around the room, to see if anyone is trying to catch his attention. "We're all packed and preparations are complete." Devaine says. "Despite the delay caused by Valric's little fracas. "I found a purveyor of maps in the city that promised his charts of various shadows were accurate. You and the Captains of these ships likely know these waters all too well, I'm happier with charts." "They cost a pretty penny." Kiathas comments. The knot of ambassadors, nobles and emissaries is slowly starting to give way. There are a few glances toward William, mostly of curiosity and interest, rather than actual beckoning. William's reflexes combine from a look from Kiathas and Valric to turn and see the blond haired Dulcinea walk up toward William and his three companions. "Your sister left before I could thank her for standing in for me, and I wanted to say hello to her brother and his companions." she says by way of greeting. Kiathas bows his head before giving a full bow. He then gives a slight elbow to Valric who gives a full bow as well. Devaine curtseys. "And I wanted to ask you a bit more about this mission that the King is sending you on." Dulcinea adds."If you have time, of course." "On most days, I could resist you nothing," William answers her with a smile. "Now however ..." he frowns. "Time presses, and I must step into what is either a delicate situation involving the aristocracy of Amber, or else a cunningly baited trap. And still make our ship on time. But I would not deny you, either..." Dulcinea's eyebrows raise in slight alarm at the mention of a trap. He regards her thoughtfully. "Have you the leisure and interest to ride with us to the Karm estate, to poke a fractious little lord? If so, come along, and welcome the company. And we can discuss my diplomatic exile on the way." He snaps his fingers. "Ah, but where are my manners? Princess Dulcinea, allow me to introduce my closest friends and companions. The brave and noble warriors and strategists Kiathas and Valric. And the equally brave and far more cunning Devaine. My friends, this fair creature is the Princess Dulcinea, daughter of King Random and Latrice, Queen of Maeonis." Valric and Kiathas bow again, Devaine curtseys again. "Its a pleasure to meet you now, especially that you are newly minted as a Princess." Kiathas says. "And Guillaume didn't mention, but the fractious Karm lord is Valric's fault here. Or the unwitting bait if this is a trap." Devaine rolls her eyes slightly. "I see" Dulcinea says thoughtfully. "Well, since my father did not see fit to assign me a task as he seemingly did to a goodly portion of our family today..." she smiles slightly. "I have the leisure. And it would behoove me to gain knowledge of Amber. So I will gladly accompany you for that alone, to say nothing of hearing the tale of your diplomatic exile." "Splendid!" Valric says in response, then turning toward William. "If I was bait for a trap for William, you'll just confuse the Karm. Won't she, Guillaume?" "When in doubt, confuse the situation," William agrees with a smile and a nod. "Enough of this." Kiathas growls. "Let's get horses." William offers his arm to Dulcinea. "My princesss," he says. "Let us be off to the stables." "Not precisely a romantic destination." Devaine comments dryly as, accepting the arm, Dulcinea allows herself gladly to be escorted by William, and he with his friends proceeds through the Castle, out the front gate and down to the stable. Conversation between the companions, and Dulcinea, for that matter, remains light and not very noteworthy, until horses are acquired. "I wonder if Mother would allow me to import one or two of my favorite Troas horses." Dulcinea says idly as she selects a tobiano colored pinto horse in brown and white. "I know that Hadrian appreciated our horses, too, when he and the DuMarquean Royal Family would visit Maeonis." "Speaking of which." Dulcinea says, as the trio of companions look over choices of horses of their own. "One of the things I wanted to ask you specifically about your trip, William, above and beyond the general scope, was if Maeonis was on your itinerary." "Quite honestly, no," William answers her. "The main thrust of this mission is to reassure the members of the Golden Circle that they have not been forgotten, and to assess the damage they have suffered. However, our itenerary is fluid, and if you're making a particular request I should be happy to entertain it." "Nay" Dulcinea responds, leading her chosen horse out of the stables. "All I wished was a simple conveyance of well wishes to my mother. And I wondered, after the ceremony this morning, if you were going to go and talk with her about Golden Circle membership. And, perhaps, the same for Hadrian's DuMarque." "Still, his Majesty's request to you in the Throne Room was not unexpected, I gathered." Dulcinea continues. "There's a little more to it, isn't there? Something secret?" she says with a smile. Devaine just allows the briefest of smiles but says nothing. Kiathas looks at Valric, who closes his mouth and concentrates on leading his roan colored horse out of the stables instead. William is silent for a moment as he soothes his own horse. Then, leading it out of the stable he says quietly. "You've heard of the duel, no doubt. I am sure everyone has. It has become politically expedient for the king to have me away from court for a while. The situation with Rebma..." he shrugs. "You are too hard on yourself. Again." Kiathas says. "You did what you thought was right." Dulcinea says agreeing A Triton overtaken by madness, possibly by the mere possession of that Sapphire. Killing guards and intent on possibly wreaking even further catastrophe? From what I know of you now, cousin." Dulcinea says "it would have been surprising if you had *not* called Triton to account afterwards. Even if it went too far." William nods. "Mayhap," he says noncommittally. "On the other hand." she adds after a few moments which see everyone mounted on trotting horses toward the gate. "Think on this. The political expediency that sends you and your companions into the Golden Circle allows my father to be balanced and turn around and name Meriel a Princess in nearly the same breath." "Queen Moire can't be happy about that, from what I understand of her origins. Without your 'exile', William, it would have been more difficult for Random to irk his now former vassal and newest rival by giving Meriel not only asylum, but rank within the Family. In a sense, Meriel owes you a favour although she may not realize it." William chuckles. "I do not think, from the small time I have spent in her company, that our cousin Meriel is one who allows others to decide if she owes a favour or no. Headstrong that one. As befits our family." "I should think, from the small amount of time that I've seen her, that I would be somewhat unnerved if she decided that she owed one of us a favour and then decided to act upon that debt, unilaterally." Kiathas points out. "Headstrong, as William says." Valric agrees. Devaine gives a nod of agreement as the group makes it out of the Castle gate and onto the road that heads down the side of Kolvir, toward the city and points beyond. "Definitely she will be an interesting addition to the family," William agrees, with a certain amount of relish in the way he says "interesting." Dulcinea picks up a thread of conversation after some maneuvering allows for riding two abreast down the winding road. "Since you and your friends will soon be out of the Castle, whoever would you recommend that I turn to for advice here? Assuming, of course, that as soon as we return from dealing with this Karm that I am not given some stray mission myself." "Now there is an interesting question, my dear princess," William answers. "Everyone in our family has their own agenda, of course, and their advice must be regarded in that light. I would say that different people would be more trustworthy and knowledgeable in different fields. What form of advice, in particular, are you considering here?" "No one is free of agenda." Dulcinea says in agreement. "That's part of what I fear. I don't know the players, so to speak, to know just what agendas I should be watchful for. I am sure that even you, dear cousin." Dulcinea smiles "would have your own agenda in advising me whom to talk to and not talk to." Kiathas snickers as Dulcinea continues. "Since you will be gone for a time, I am looking for temporary replacements on your considered counsel on whom to trust in matters regarding family members, is what I am getting at. Who else besides you understands this sprawling family enough to tell me at least an ampoule of truth about someone if I were to ask about them?" "I don't want to be overly manipulated, especially as a way to get at Father." Dulcinea says. "Uncle Gerard is the most trustworthy member of the family," William says thoughtfully as they ride. "But he has little discretion, and you cannot count on him to not inadvertently reveal something you have told him in confidence. Not deliberately, but when he loses his temper he says things without thinking." He smiles fondly, "He's a lovable old bear, though. I am sure you will find him delightful." "Father said he was the best of their generation." Dulcinea says. William muses silently for a bit, then continues. "While it no doubt seems self-serving, I think my sister might be a good choice. Perhaps it is merely that I know her best. She can keep her own counsel, and while she does keep an eye out for her own welfare, she isn't malicious. And she has a keen sense of the nature of those around her. I'm sure she has strong opinions on everyone in the family. Get to know her, build trust between the two of you, and you'd be hard pressed to find a better source of information and gossip." Valric grins. "There you have the self-interest, Princess Dulcinea. After all, such an alliance would keep you well within the orbit of Guilliaume's branch of the family." "Who could fault him *that*?" Kiathas says. Devaine shakes her head and gestures toward Dulcinea. "Don't mind them. From what I have seen of his sister, she also knows how to make people underestimate her. While I don't think they would make a similar mistake with you, she certainly could teach you a thing or two about the advantages of being the fairer sex in William's kingdom." Dulcinea looks thoughtful at all this, and finally regards William after the group makes a turn that puts them at the intersection that will take them to the states outside the city, like the Karm. "Your archietairos seem to be in eager agreement with you." she says with a smile. William returns the smile. "We have fought side by side, shared laughter, tears and secrets, and they have trusted me to lead them far from the world of their birth. Little surprise if we think alike on many things." "Was it your shadow of desire?" Dulcinea asks. "What I mean is, that Father explained that after Family members walk the Pattern, they often go off into shadow and find, create a world to their desires and wishes. Is the world of your friends the shadow of your desire after you walked the Pattern, cousin?" With this question, Kiathas, Valric and Devaine's attentions turn firmly on William as well. "It is a world of adventure, intrigue, and romance," William replies. "Where I found comrades good and true. I have lived there long, working towards eventually bringing it into the Golden Circle of shadows that trade freely with Amber. Does that give some answer to your question?" "It does?" Kiathas says in jest. Devaine shakes her head in disbelief. Valric gives a nod and a grinning smile to William. And Dulcinea puts a finger to her lips and smiles. "Yes." she says with a smile. "I can only hope that when I do go to seek a shadow of desire, as it seems that all in the family do, that I find a shadow with such depth of qualities as you have, from which you have brought such stalwart companions to your side." "Gods, I want to marry her! William, will you speak to the King for me?" Kiathas roars with jesting laughter, kicking his horse to a faster pace. William shakes his head in mock despair. "Let us settle Valric's latest romantic disaster before you leap into royal romantic intrigue, Kiathis, please." He rises in his stirrups and slaps his horse's flank with a rein. "Enough dawdling! Let us to it!" And he sets off down the road at a gallop. Kiathas, already at a faster pace, has but a short bit to catch up to William's galloping pace. However, Valric, Devaine and Dulcinea soon match William's pace down the road. Past the city and in the direction of relatively distant Baylesport, the road turns into the Post Road, and two miles along that road is the major estate of the Karm family, off of a short spur that places the estate on prime real estate on the coast. With the pointed arches and steep gables, and a tower, the large wooden house could be mistaken, in shadow for being an archetypal example of carpenter gothic architecture. As it stands here, it might be said to define that style throughout shadow. In the crest of House Karm, a pair of male riders rush up the private road on their steeds, clear on identifying and challenging William and his companions. William pulls up, holding up a hand to stop his companions as well. "Let us see what sort of courtesy Karm offers to guests," he says quietly, a smile on his lips as he awaits the riders. Kiathas, Valric and Devaine stop immediately. Dulcinea pulls up alongside William as the Karm made their headlong approach. "The question is, what sort of courtesy will they offer a Prince of Amber. They probably won't recognize me. However..." Dulcinea halts her speech as the pair of figures pull up their horses only a couple of yards from where William and his companions have reined up. The golden serpent entwined around a silver sword stands out on their black shirts. The elder of the two men levels his gaze at William with what is at first, a harsh, unfriendly look. If William is counting, it takes about 3 seconds for him to make the connection. "Prince William, of the Royal Princess Flora's line!" he says, softening his gaze into something resembling a smile. "I am Rayce, and this is Leahy. For what purpose do you and your friends grace the lands of House Karm today?" "A good day to you, Rayce," William answers with an open smile. He nods to the younger man. "And to you, Leahy, as well. I come as an emissary of peace, soothing over misunderstanding and preventing a minor matter from growing into a grave situation. Perhaps we can discuss this further in comfort, amidst the famed hospitality of Karm?" "Emissary of Peace?" Rayce seems slightly puzzled. Leahy stares at Valric for a moment, and gives the slightest of head and eye bows in Valric's direction to Rayce. Its a very subtle gesture, that William is not certain that anyone else in the group caught, but his military expertise and skill allowed him to catch. This elicits a look of enlightenment from Rayce. "The hospitality of the Oldest House** is always open to a Prince of Amber and his companions. Leahy, ride hard and fast, and tell the Chatelaine that the drawing room should be prepared with food and drink for the Prince William and four companions." William can't help but see that Rayce gives a long stare at Leahy that the latter responds with a nod to. Leahy turns his horse, making for the house. "It would not do for your four companions, and yourself, to find us less than completely and immediately prepared for your hospitality, since you've chosen to grace us so unexpectedly. Is this not true, milord?" Rayce says, in a placating tone of voice to William. "I could never and would never expect anything less from Karm," William answers. "Your nobility and graciousness is legendary, as I told my good companions, new as they are to Amber." William prods his horse into a slow walk toward the Karm estate. "I have been from Amber for some little time. How go matters with Karm these days?" Devaine and Dulcinea line up to ride behind William and Rayce. It would not be lost on William that they are definitely close enough to hear the conversation.Valric and Kiathas line up behind the two of them, providing a neat two by three of riders to head toward the Karm estate. "Your Highness is no doubt aware of the fine and long martial tradition of our House." Rayce says, matching his speed with William's. "Our fortunes have ebbed and flowed in response to the state of, ah, I believe you used the word Peace, milord Prince. Karm's fortunes are not as strong as those of our noble rivals when the Kingdom does not face a martial challenge." "Surely you, as a Prince of Amber who is ranked with the Royal Princes of Amber in the ways of the sword, can appreciate that an unused blade can threaten to turn dull." Rayce adds. William nods. "Aye," he says. "And I well appreciate as well that men of spirit, men with the hearts of warriors, can grow fractious in inaction." He smiles at Rayce, an open and honest smile. "No doubt you have heard by now that I, myself, grew overheated in an argument with my good cousin, and drew the displeasure of the king through my actions. I fear now that I may serve as a bad example to my good companions and to men of noble houses, and I would dearly love to prevent them from suffering the king's displeasure through following my example." Rayce, sensing William has more to say, gives a nod in answer to William's smile and admission, and continues to listen intently. He leans closer to Rayce as they ride. "As well," he adds in a lower voice, although still loud enough for Devaine and Dulcinea to overhear, "There is another reason, although one not yet for the public to hear. Karm should know, though, as you shall be needed. Now is not the time for fighting among ourselves, when we may soon all be needed in the defense of our beloved Amber." Rayce draws in a breath. Anxiety? Excitement? Anticipation? His eyes almost literally glow as William makes his confession. "Truly, milord Prince?" Rayce says. "I heard rumor that there were strange doings in shadow, and of course milord remembers the stunning lightning storm only a few nights last. There are even darker rumors, milord Prince." he says. "Although I give them no due credit." "If you can tell me, Prince William, Who threatens the safety of our realm?" Rayce then says. "The Ancient Enemy, or some other?" There is a soft exchange of words between Dulcinea and Devaine, although both have couched their words very lowly. Its difficult to quite make out what they are saying. In the meantime the six riders have turned a bend in the road, and now a low wall, not even as tall as a man, rises halfway between the group and the gothic rambling edifice that they near. "I cannot say, Rayce," William answers with a shake of his head. "For the king has not told me the whole story as of yet. He says it is best if I go on this mission..." he pauses, then continues, "...Do not reveal to anyone that I mentioned that my upcoming diplomatic travels are a mission for the king, Rayce, if you would be so kind. The king my uncle has taken the opportunity of my duel to pretend to anger at me, as a way to justify sending me from Amber at this time. I am to gather information, seek to learn more about the threat, or threats, that we face. And the king says it is best if I go on this mission with as few preconceptions as possible, the better to learn the truth." Rayce's face goes grave and he coughs, nervously, and the nods. William looks into the distance. "Dark rumors, you said. I would like to hear these from you before I leave." "I did, milord, and perhaps these dark rumors are similar to the ones that his Majesty, your Uncle, has heard tale of similar ones, and sends you to face them. Seek me ere your business here is done, and I would speak more on what I know, milord Prince. In confidence, of course." By this point, the riders pass beyond the wall, and into a wide courtyard that stands in front of the main building. There are a few side buildings, including a stables. Grooms have already come out at the approach of the riders, and Rayce takes the lead in bringing his horse to a half and dismounting. At the entrance to House Karm, a figure in an Amber military uniform, complete with dress sword that William recognizes as Langley Karm, stands watchful, waiting for William and his companions to dismount. The bald headed Langley is a couple of decades younger than his mother the Dowager Lady Karm, and although she is the titular head of the Karm family, Langley is the real power in the family. Before dismounting William catched Langley's eye. He stands tall in his stirrups, eyes locked on Langley's, and says, "Your Royal Highness. I have the pleasure of presenting Lord Langley Karm, of house Karm. A more noble man it would be hard to find. Lord Langley, it is my honour to present you to Her Royal Highness Dulcinea, heir of Queen Latrice of Maeonis, and daughter of Random, King of Amber. Her Royal Highness is new to Amber, and seeks to better know its people. As her mother's folk set great store and give much honour to the martial virtues, it seemed meet and proper to me that her first visit among the nobles of her father's realm should be to Karm." Off to the side, Rayce has a look of shock and surprise on his face at William's revelation. He stares openly at Dulcinea for a moment or two before looking over to Lord Karm. "It is a pleasure to meet you my Lord Langley Karm" Dulcinea speaks first, in dulcet tones more suited to William's mother than his Uncle. She inclines her head in his direction from her mount. "Royal Princess Dulcinea." Lord Karm's voice is gravelly and grave. "The pleasure of Prince William's visits are always high." he contnues. "I am most pleased, however, to meet you. I am afraid that the hospitality of House Karm may not be up to the standards of a Royal visit. You will forgive me, I hope, if in any way you find your visit lacking. Nevertheless, be welcome to House Karm." Dulcinea smiles and dips her head in response. "Thank you, Lord Karm. I am sure that your hospitality will be more than sufficient." He waits for the two of them to exchange greetings before continuing. "As well, milord, it gives me great personal satisfaction to be able to introduce to you my own comrades good and true. Lady Devaine. Lord Kiathas. Lord Valric. We are sworn one to the other. Their friends are my friends, their foes my foes. My good companions, I present you to Lord Langley Karm. May you be as beloved in his sight as you are in my own." "Lord Karm." Valric's voice is modulated and professional. Devaine bows her head. "My Lord Karm, it is a pleasure. Prince William has spoken much of Karm and its history to us." Kiathas grins and booms. "Pleased to meet you Lord Karm." "The comrades of Prince William and Royal Princess Dulcinea are as welcome in House Karm as their sponsors." Langley Karm replies. "Please, all of you, let us come inside now and away from the chill of this early spring day." Langley says, stepping four paces from where he has stood all this time and offering a hand of greeting to William and his four companions. William slides from his mount and clasps Langley's arm in a firm grip. He holds the man's eyes as he leans forward and says quietly, "As well, there are matters of importance to Amber to be discussed, milord." Then he straightens again, and offers the reins to a groom. "I see" Langley says with a nod. Behind William, Dulcinea, Kiathas, Valric and Devaine have all dismounted and started handing their reins as well. "If you will forgive the gruff bluntness of a Karm." Langley says. "it is rare that a Prince of Amber, to say nothing of a Prince of Amber and a new Royal Princess of Amber, with escort, comes to the door of House Karm save for damned good reason." "Come." the doors are opened at Langley's unspoken command, revealing an entrance corridor, a back stair for ladies to ascend and freshen up before presentation, and the stolid and solid wood and stone construction and architecture. Its decidedly and reliably conservative, and its what the Karm are all about. A man in Karm livery, Leahy from the road encounter in fact,rushes up to Langley and makes a sketchy but quick bow. "Milord, I was just coming to tell Rayce that the the Moore room has been prepared and set out for our guests." "Shall we, Prince William?" Langley says, looking over William, Dulcinea and his companions. "Let us, Lord Karm," William answers. He looks to Dulcinea. "Your Royal Highness?" "Yes." she says, with just a touch of sweetness to a formal and royally professional mien on her face. It's not quite as polished as his sister or his mother, but perhaps her experience in her Mother's court transfers well enough to Amber. Langley Karm leads the group inside, Rayce and Leahy falling in smartly and easily behind Kiathas and Valric. The Moore room turns out to be a fair distance down the hall, perhaps coincidentally allowing the group to see the grand double staircase to the second floor, the relatively unadorned but impressive barrel arches and wooden colums, the occasional carved face, and a number of tapestries. The latter are almost all of either battles, military dressed men (and women), or group paintings where the men are dressed thusly. The Moore Room turns out to be a a corner room with a large bank of windows allowing a view of the shoreline, a portrait of the dowager Lady mother of Langley, and a set of couches and divans which are arranged in a horseshoe fashion around a table set with sandwiches and what appears to be imported tea or coffee, and a fire in the fireplace taking off any remaining chill in the room. Karm gestures for the group to sit, and a servant, a quiet young girl with raven hair, sets ready to serve. "Now, shall we begin?" he proposes. William takes a seat, and says, "I have come to talk with you about the incident with my good companion in the city," he indicates Valric. "And the call to duel that resulted..." he pauses, glancing at the servant, then back at Karm. "It is a sensitive and private matter," he says quietly. "Perhaps better discussed in private?" "I begin to see. I had some small suspicions in the matter." he says in a grave and gravelly tone. He gives a glance at Valric thoughtfully and then briefly looks back at William. Langley then takes a look at the young woman. "Markia, please withdraw. And if Rayce and Leahy are lurking at the door outside, please inform them to be elsewhere." "Yes, milord." Markia curtseys, and departs the room briskly. "Now that I think I have allayed your concerns of privacy, milord Prince." Langley says. "I am all ears." William settles back in his chair with a smile. "You are a clever man, Lord Karm," William says with a smile. Langley resists an overt reaction to the compliment, but he is clearly watching and listening closely as William continues. "You may have divined already my little ruse. By now the word is spreading that my man Valric was in an altercation in the city, and speculation will be running rife that I, having recently suffered the King's displeasure for dueling, have come to Karm to prevent another duel, which will draw further royal annoyance. Thus, there is no reason for any to wonder on why one of the King's nephews, noted for his martial skill, is seeking to hold conference with the most martial of the noble families of Amber. The King would not have anyone alerted too early that there may soon come a time when Amber's defense will require Karm once again." "Do you mean to say." Langley finally replies, looking from William, to Valric, and then back at William "that the altercation between Hennepin, and your man Valric was only a ploy on your part in order to arrange a meeting with me, without raising suspicion to the enemies of Amber, and those in Amber who might be unnerved by a military meeting?" He raises an eyebrow at William speculatively. William nods. "Even as the King has arranged that I am being sent from Amber on what is supposedly a diplomatic mission to the realms of the Golden Circle. Those who are clever will pierce that cover story, and see that in truth I am being sent away from Amber to appease the Queen of Rebma, due to my duel with her son." William smiles. Langley leans forward slightly, regarding William carefully and attentively as he continues. "It's always wise to have a second cover story beneath the first one, my lord. In this case, the truth is that there have been disturbing rumors and events, and the King wants someone out there looking into things for him. But he also wants Amber's defenders preparing, quietly and without any overt activity that might be noticed by potential enemies, or, as you say, those with a vested interest in peace that might lead them to object to even the preparations for a necessary war." "So." Langley says. "This is a highly convoluted manner in which to make a meeting between the two of us without tongues wagging. I can think of several less dangerous methods to come here to House Karm without raising eyebrows. The opportunity for me to meet the newest acknowledged daughter of his Majesty, for instance. Surely she would want to meet various of the nobles of Amber, and surely only someone as trusted as you, Prince William, would be perfect for introducing her to House Karm, Chandris, and the other Houses." Dulcinea smiles and inclines her head but keeps sweetly quiet, giving Karm that smile. William's companions remain quiet and respectful. Langley finally shakes his head, blinking, as if he stared into a bright light, and looks back at William. "A word on the subterfuge you and Valric used before we continue about plans and discussions for defense, milord Prince." Langley says. "There is still the matter of Torren's wounded pride and the challenge of the duel made. Would you and your man prefer to speak with Torren yourselves regarding this...misunderstanding? Or would you prefer, milord Prince, to leave such matters safely within Karm?" "Actually, my Lord Karm," William answers, "That was another matter I wished to discuss with you. I thought it important to test what I had been told of Torren, and this means was a way to do that while also arranging an excuse for a meeting. To put it bluntly, my lord, Torren has become..." William pauses, as though weighing his words despite his statement that he was going to speak bluntly, and he finally continues, "Torren has become predictable, and easy to manipulate. An enemy of Karm could have arranged matters just as simply as I did." William shrugs. "I would leave this to your lordship's best judgement, I merely bring it to your attention." "My cousin speaks truth." Dulcinea adds at this point. "He wished me to accompany him to meet with you, milord, to give further weight to his words and make his visit here less suspicious to all and sundry." Behind William, Valric offers the briefest of smiles. Kiathas and Devaine have much better poker faces and busy themselves with sipping poured cups of the offered tea. "I see." Langley says. He scratches his chin slightly, and then looks from Dulcinea and then back at William. "I daresay, my lord Prince, that a visit from you is, as the phrase goes, like having tea with the black dragon. One does not quite know what to expect." He pours and takes a sip of a cup of tea in counterpoint. "I take that as a high compliment, my lord," William answers with a smile. "I would hate to be predictable and boring." He turns his own attention to tea then. "Ah," he says with a pleased sigh, "Very nice, indeed, my lord. It is a pleasure to occasionally be able to relax from the affairs of the realm." "I have wondered." Langley Karm says. "Just how the realm would fare, with the *youngest* son of the late King Oberon ultimately taking the throne. Even in the aftermath of a war, such a choice by the Unicorn was clearly a bold and unexpected one." "It is pleasing." Langley says, taking a sip of the tea before continuing "to see that despite the now rising sea of troubles that have brought you to speak with me here, that the realm has prospered in the fifteen years since his Majesty's return from the End of the World. And yet even in that peace, a respite from the duties of suzerainty is not unwarranted." "You will, I hope, give regards to your Lady Mother the Royal Princess, and your sister the Princess." Langley says. "I do understand that we here might not be of quite the bent that they might favor, in our conservatism in art and our martial bent. We do understand, milord, that we two are of far more allied temperament. However, we favor good relations with all of the various members of the Royal Family. Old and new alike. Especially now that things are turning as you have said." "I shall convey your regards to the ladies," William answers with a courteous nod of his head. "And I thank you for them, myself." A frown crosses his face, and he leans forward. "I do not know how quickly the intelligence might have spread to you, my lord," he says, a grim note creeping into his voice. "And I am certain that the King my Uncle and my Mother have sought to keep this as quiet as may be. But servants do gossip, and rumors will spread, so let me tell you now that there was an attempt to abduct my mother from her very chamber in the castle. It failed, of course, but this should tell you how bold our enemies have become." The impassive look on Langley's face cracks like an eggshell that has taken too much force from a crushing hand. His gaze ignores Dulcinea and William's companions, focusing entirely and solely on William instead. "An attempt at abduction of a member of the Royal Family?" Langley's voice remains controlled perhaps only by an act of will and force. "It is as you have said, if I had any remaining doubts. The wolves of our enemies circle around Amber, seeking weakness and even snapping at her hooves." "Let us make sure, milord Prince, that the horn of the Unicorn of Amber remains sharp." Langley adds. William sets down his tea cup and reaches over and clasps Langley's forearm tightly. "I knew we could count on you, Langley," he said. "You see now why I went to such lengths of subterfuge? To know when my mother was alone, and where she was at exactly the time they launched the attack, someone had to be able to scry into the castle. We're facing wizardry, and we don't know exactly where it's coming from. The King is sending various people out to run down various possibilities, but we need to be ready to act at a moment's notice once the true enemy is determined. And we need you to begin quietly assuring that the military might of Karm is ready." "It is sound strategy." Langley says, nodding as William clasps his arm. "It is as the General, Prince Benedict, once wrote and clearly our King, Random has taken to mind in employing you in this fashion." Langley stops a moment and then continues, in a voice of clear quotation that draws the attention of all three of William's companions, and Dulcinea as well. "It is only the enlightened ruler and the wise general who will use the highest intelligence of the army for purposes of spying and thereby they achieve great results. Spies are a most important element in water, because on them depends an army's ability to move." "You and those King Random has sent out must discover the disposition of the enemy, given that they have themselves have followed Prince Benedict's precepts to spy upon us, so that the ability of the army to move upon them can be achieved." he adds. William nods. "What enables the wise sovereign and the good general to strike and conquer, and achieve things beyond the reach of ordinary men, is foreknowledge," he quotes. He releases Langley's arm and leans back in his chair. "Have you any questions for me on this, my lord? Now that you know how things stand, I can leave to you the matters of preparation." "Merely a few simple logistical ones, milord Prince." Langley replies after a moment's thought. "Now that I and House Karm have been alerted to the storm clouds on the eastern horizon, as the saying goes, what is the way forward in terms of continuing contact and updates on the situation. Especially given that you yourself will soon be departing Amber, as you say." He looks speculatively and briefly at Dulcinea at this. "And, which other of our brother Houses in Amber, if any, are also being entrusted with this knowledge? Or do you prefer that we are alerted and prepare in independent isolation for the time of tumult ahead?" Langley adds. "Honestly, my lord, I'm being kept somewhat in the dark on this, as well. I assume the King is sending other messengers with other instructions, but I was not informed as to all of them." William smiles. Langley gives a nod of recognition, and an invitation for William to continue. "As you yourself said, we share a certain martial bent, and thus I was the logcial one to speak with you." He turns and looks at Dulcinea as well. "Now that the Princess has been introduced to you, no doubt she will have occasion to visit again from time to time. Or to have you to tea at the Castle. Excellent opportunities to pass on information between you and the king. And no doubt as he makes decisions about such things, you will learn who else has been alerted to this matter." "Or not, as is his wont." Langley says, thoughtfully. "I had not expected the King to absorb the lessons of Prince General Benedict so thoroughly. However, I suppose that the alternatives would be far worse. I shall rely on you, milady Royal Princess, for succor in future invitations and discussions." He looks at Dulcinea. "Milord, I shall be positively delighted." Dulcinea turns on a smile whose wattage easily reaches triple digits. Langley makes ready to stand. "If there is nothing else, then, milords, milady, I do believe that the remainder of the business of our respective days might now lie heavy on each of us?" William stands and nods his head to Langley. "Indeed it does, milord. I have much to do in this last remaining day before I leave upon my.." he smiles, "..diplomatic voyage." Langley stands and bows, once, to his guests. "Undoubtedly, milord." [William] holds out his hand to Lord Karm. "Thank you, Langley," he says warmly. "I've been away from Amber for some time, and it is a relief and a pleasure to find some things still can be counted upon." Langley shakes the hand in a single, strong, pump before releasing it. "Your absence has been keenly felt, and we will lose the pleasure of your presence with this matter. But the aphorism that all roads lead to Amber is one that applies to all that love her, I think." Langley says. "And clearly you, and the Princess, and your companions do." Langley walks over to the door, opens it and speaks to someone unseen for a moment before opening the door further to reveal the servant seen earlier. "Markia will show you back to the courtyard and your mounts. Until we meet again, Prince William. Princess Dulcinea. Friends." Langley says. He gives one final nod to Dulcinea, William, and his companions, and then heads out of the room with urgency in his stride. The brown haired young woman looks at the group expectantly. William smiles at her. "Lead on, fair Markia," he says. He offers an arm to Dulcinea, and keeps an eye out for Rayce. Markia's dimples blush slightly at William's smile. She mumbles words that run together to something like "yesmilord" and turns to lead William, Dulcinea (on his arm), and his three companions. The passage back to the entrance to House Karm is without incident. It is when the young woman has had a footman open the doors to lead the group to the stables that William sees the outrider, Rayce, walking out of the stables. Stablehands are already leading their mounts out at his command. "Lord Langley's attention to time is legendary, milord." Rayce explains as he approaches. Markia looks from William and Dulcinea to Rayce, curtseys to the latter, and then to William before she heads back inside. "I believe that you wished to discuss the dark rumors that I mentioned earlier, milord." Rayce says. William can now count that there are six horses, not five, in the hands of the stablehands. "Perhaps for the sake of privacy, I might explain on the ride to the main road?" "Excellent idea, Rayce," William answers quietly. He turns to Dulcinea. "You Highness," he says with a flourish and a bow, and assists her in mounting. Dulcinea graciously and gratefully takes William's assistance. [William]winks at Devaine as he mounts himself, then nods to Rayce. "Lead on, my friend," he says. Devaine looks bemused at William, and mounts her horse herself, as do Kiathas and Valric. Once the group is on the road, the stratification of the riders on a slow pace led by Rayce and William leaves Dulcinea in the middle, as if she were the one being escorted by all, Devaine behind her, and Kiathas and Valric bringing up the rear. This arrangement allows Rayce to speak quietly with William, affording both a modicum of privacy. "His Lordship took pains to keep me from knowing what he discussed with you, milord." Rayce begins. "So forgive me if his lordship already knows, and has told you some of which I have to say." His tone continues in this apologetic vein as he continues. William nods, without commenting. "I mentioned the lightning storm several days past, milord." Rayce begins. "There are rumors from beyond Amber, though, the dark rumors of which you expressed interest. Rumors that the Queen of Rebma plots and schemes, no longer obedient to King Random in any way. I have heard, through contacts coming into the City, that strange men and women have appeared in ports in the Golden Circle. Dark rituals, murders, and other doings in Begma, Deiga, and other places have followed their arrival." Rayce pauses a moment. "Perhaps such doings are beneath the attentions and notice and knowledge of a Prince of Amber such as yourself, milord, or even the monarchs of the Golden Circle, but Karm is surely not the only one to notice such a pattern of events." "Some say its the Ancient Enemy, come now in shadows, whispers and dark rites, rather than boldly on the Dark Road that they built two decades ago." Rayce says. "Is there anything specific said about these strangers in the Golden Circle, and the nature of their rituals?" William asks. "Indeed, milord." the Karm replies with a nod. "While I disbelieve the most outlandish of the stories about the strangers and the rituals that they perform." he says. "I can believe the more reasonable ones. They seek passage to Amber, or at the very least, inquire about ships and caravans heading to Amber, even if they do not necessarily join the travelers or board the vessel. They ask over the members of the Royal Family. They make prayers to powers other than the Unicorn. They employ strange magic powers." "They seem to seek, milord, paths and routes to the Eternal City. Perhaps in ways secret and unseen to prying eyes." Rayce adds. "This is definitely of interest, Rayce," William says. "And I shall keep a watch for them while I travel through the Golden Circle. Thank you for this information." He rides silently for a few moments, then continues, "Have you heard anything about the sorts of magic they employ? Such knowledge might tell me something of their origins." "I am only a simple wielder of a blade, milord Prince." Rayce says, with a tone of regret in his voice. "I don't profess to understand magic, not the hedge magic that some practice in the Noble Houses, and certainly not the strange powers of the Royal Family." "And I am a faithful attender of the Church, milord." Rayce says in a pious tone. "I do not understand the ways and the heretical magics of the Ancient Enemy. I understand little of what this sort of magic, save that it is done in secret, hidden, and done with strange symbols and diagrams." "What you have told me is useful enough," William tells Rayce. "I shall be on my guard. Were there any other rumors you can bring to mind?" The road curves toward the final stretch that leads to the junction of the private road with the Post Road. Rayce looks thoughtful, and then nods slowly. "There was one other small thing, milord, that has been circulating around Karm." He pauses a moment. "There is a rumor, of which I have only heard thirdhand, milord Prince, and probably months out of date, that there is a rogue army on the borders of the Golden Circle. An army that wanders through shadow toward an unknown goal. I know not much more, milord." "Any army," William repeats with a grin. "That sounds to be more promising for honest swordsmen such as you and I, does it not? Let others deal with the mages and witches, and you and I shall take arms against this foe, eh?" "Be it man or four armed creature, I prefer a foe that I can stand toe to toe against, rather than sneaky magics and unknown rituals, milord." Rayce says in a tone of agreement. "All the numberless hordes of the Ancient Enemy, without witches and mages, are preferable for me to face than an Enchanter, Sorcerer, or Spellbreaker." And with that, the end of the road to House Karm, and the end of Rayce's escort, is finally reached. He maneuvers his horse to the side of the road, permitting Dulcinea, Valric, Kiathas and Devaine to pass him and to the junction. From his horse he gives a bow of the head and touches his fingers to his bow in the direction of Dulcinea. "If there is nothing further, milord." Rayce says. "I thank you for your visit and your tidings to our House." "My thanks to you, Rayce," William says. He reaches out and clasps Rayce's arm. "Needless to say, please regard our converation as private. I doubt not that Lord Karm will have instructions for you on what may and may not be said, and whom to. The Unicorn watch over you, my friend, until we meet again." He lets Rayce depart then, and watches until he is out of earshot, then turns to his companions. "Well," he says. "That went quite well, I thought." Dulcinea has a smile of pride and respect on her countenance. Devaine looks somewhat puzzled, as does Kiathas. Valric, on the other hand has a mixture of relief and nervousness on his face, and it is he who speaks, haltingly. "Guillaume." Valric says, not quite meeting William's gaze. "I...am amazed...and sorry that you had to come up with that..." Valric falters. "Masterpiece of social engagement." Kiathas says, in an admiring tone, filling in. Valric glares at Kiathas and returns to speaking. "You lied for me." Valric says. "More so than that time with the Baroness' daughter at the women's college in Kempten. You lied for me to defuse the situation with Karm. No duel, and it seems logical and a part of a well constructed whole. Lord Karm believed it all." "I think it was brilliant." Dulcinea says with a smile. "I begin to understand just how talented you are, cousin, besides your skill with a blade." William offers Dulcinea a bow from his saddle, and a wide grin. "I count on you, good cousin, to convey to your father the essence of what I told Karm. I should not like for the king to be caught unawares by the cleverness of his strategies." Dulcinea nods in agreement and assent to William. He turns to Valric then. "It was a lie merely in fact, my friend," he says airily. "In its underlying assumptions it was all true. While the king hadn't, in so many words, or, really, in any way at all, expressed an interest in having me speak to Karm on these matters, he might very well have done so had either he or I thought of it beforehand. And, really, it's a rather good idea. Everything I told Karm about the dangers faced by Amber, and the importance of Karm in being ready to field a military force, is solid truth." "Gea" Valric says in agreement, slipping perhaps unconsciously away from Thari and into the tongue of his shadow. He regards William with contrition as William continues. He nods decisively, and begins to lead them away from the Karn estate. "All in all, Valric, I find myself grateful that I had this chance to speak with Lord Karm. He's a canny old warrior, and if it flatters him to think we would go to all this roundabout trouble to consult with him, all the better. Now is not the time for there to be injured feelings and wounded pride amongst Amber's defenders." "Flattery and sweet words, and turning a defender to our cause." Devaine says. "I was surprised to see what you were doing, although it does, how does the expression go in thari?" She looks at Kiathas. "Kill two pigeons with one arrow." Kiathas suggests. Dulcinea furrows her eyebrows in slight confusion. "I think we're close to the expression." Devaine says. "Anyway, there are far worse ways to spend the afternoon than a trip out to the country cousins. Thank you, William." Valric finally nods and regards William. "Again, though, Guillaume, even if your machinations were useful, they weren't strictly necessary. But they are very welcome. Thank you." "Guillaume just would find it hard to keep his Uncle happy if he had to keep the ship we're taking continually clean of your blood if that Karm had plugged a wound into you." Kiathas says in a jesting tone. William chuckles. "The sailors who had to take holystone to the deck to clean up your blood would be most distressed," he agrees in mock solemnity. "It was them I thought of, Valric. I wish to be a kindly and beneficent commanding officer." "I am sure his Highness the Admiral Gerard would appreciate that too." Kiathas puts in. "He looks like a kindly enough man, but I'd rather enrage a bear than him." They come to the fork in the road, and William turns to Dulcinea. "Our way lies down, Princess," he tells her. "To Amber, and thence the ships before the end of the day. What of you? Would you venture into the city with us, or do you need to return to the castle?" Dulcinea glances at the Castle for a fraction of a moment, and shakes her head as she turns back to William. "While I eventually am due for certain social engagements, none of those are immediately pressing. Dinner with father, upon which I will tell the story of what happened in House Karm. A conversation with your Mother and sister, this evening. Finding out what happened with Hadrian." She rolls her shoulders. "Until those, I could go to the Castle and work on my knitting, or I could venture with you and your friends into the City." "I think its an easy choice" Dulcinea smiles. Valric slaps a hand against his forehead and interjects "Such a pity, William. You are thwarted from spending more time with your cousin by the needs and necessities of needle and thread! It is a crime!" Devaine tilts her head and grins. "We'll be very glad to have you with us. My two stalwart companions here seem to be on slightly better behavior when one of the female members of William's family are around." "It will not last, I fear," William sighs. "They are incorrigible. Come, my friends, we have one last evening in Amber. Let us make certain the city remembers us." He spurs his horse into a canter down towards the immortal city. Backlinks |
