Sebastian's Game Log

**In McGintie's**

Ms McGintie see you enter and rushes to you, "Child what are you 
doing with yourself recently? your skinny as a rail."

Sebastian, "Aw, Mrs.! I'm fine, really. I've been keeping busy, you 
know."

Ms. McGintie, "You need to eat like a healthy boy should!" Mr. 
McG, "Son how have you been?  Here to see your friend?"

Sebastian, "That, and I came in for a bowl of that stuff you call 
soup." (Smiles broadly)

Both look at you and smile "Ms if he can joke he is doing good."

Sebastian will nod to both and look around for Khelladon.

Khelladon is in a booth with Tuval from chaos, messenger to house 
Syth-rac.

Mr. & ms McGintie notice, "he's a little busy with that guy from 
chaos. they are deep in discussion over a lady and her house"

Sebastian, "I see. He seems to be ... adamant ... about something, 
doesn't he? Maybe I should give him a few minutes to wrap up the 
meeting?"

Mr. McGintie, "its that lady from chaos he likes so much, her family 
is trying to get her to marry someone else and increase their house 
standing but he is trying to work on getting with her himself as she 
is trying to join with him too. But politics is going to force him 
to come to speaking terms with his father and he is rebelling 
against it"

Sebastian, "That whole thing again? (shakes his head and frowns 
slightly) It's too bad really, I think they would make a nice 
couple.' (Smiles again)

Sebastian, "Mrs.?"

Ms McGintie, "Yes child?"

Sebastian without looking, mind you, "Who is that seated just behind 
our good friend Khelladon?"

Ms. McGintie, "she looks, someone I don't know she is new here why?"

Sebastian, (Shakes his head and smiles) "Oh, her companion looks 
familiar."

Ms. McGintie, "Really I haven't seen either of them before and I 
know faces well"

Sebastian, "Ah. (Nods as if the matter is settled) Just a 
resemblance perhaps. Well, it looks like things are winding up with 
that meeting. Mrs., I believe I had a lunch date with Master 
Khelladon, "Why don't you send over a plate of bread and cheese, a 
bowl of your delicious soup, and a couple bottles of your red?"

She smiles, "I shall, in fact I know exactly which soup to get you 
today! chicken dumpling."

Sebastian, "MMMmmm, sounds wonderful, I look forward to devouring 
it." (Gives her a playful grin and turns toward Khelladon)

The waitress comes up, "Lord Khelladon will you be seeing Lord 
Marcus again soon?"

Khelladon, "I'll tell him that you asked of him in my letter,' he 
smiles, `I know that he is still enamored with you as much as you 
are with him from how he keeps asking of you, Cassandra."

Cassandra, "Thank you my Lord."

The waitress leaves just before Sebastian arrives.

Sebastian reaches Khelladon's table and without being invited he 
pulls out a chair and sits down positioning himself to have a view 
of the tables behind and to the left and right of Khelladon. Smiling 
broadly he says a little loudly, "Greetings friend! I took the 
liberty of ordering, it should be here soon!" As he extends his hand 
across the table in greeting he turns to the other individual at the 
table and smiles.

Khelladon smiles, "Sorry I didn't see you come in. Do you remember 
Tuval? He is the trade messenger of House Syth-rac."

Tuval, "I do not know how long it has been for you but I last saw 
you something like 80 years ago in Lord Khelladon realm."

Sebastian, "Ah yes! Tuval! Of course. 80 years really? I never 
forget a face, names on the other hand ... " *Shrugs shoulders* "And 
how are you gentlemen keeping yourselves these days? From the look 
of things when I came in, there was something to be excited about."

Khelladon, "I was discussing the chances of thwarting a possible 
arranged wedding for Shandar Syth-rac, with someone other then 
myself as the groom."

Tuval, "Yes and over looking that it has also been noticed that he 
is carrying on with his female servant too. One of the reasons for 
them to look else where."

Khelladon, "A consort is acceptable."

Sebastian listens as Khelladon and Tuval explain, nodding his 
head. "Well it sounds like you have your work cut out for you. But I 
agree about the consort, in fact I think the more the merrier, 
right?" He makes a point of looking toward the two ladies over 
Khelladon's shoulder and raises his eyebrows in a suggestive 
manner. "Besides, since when did the Courts become concerned with 
monogamy?"

Tuval, "Consorts are common but not BEFORE the first Heir and not 
expected until after the second. It would be bad to have the Heir 
from a Consort and the second as well, after that who cares."

Khelladon caught the look from Sebastian, and listens into the 
ladies listening in on him.

Sebastian nods his head in agreement, but looks thoughtful for a 
moment, then speaks; "That which you say is true, of course. But our 
friend here is hardly anything if not unconventional. And in my 
experience, the Courts have never been sticklers for convention. 
Anyway, there are ways to insure the proper heir, as long as one is 
careful. You ARE taking care, aren't you?" Sebastian turns and 
raises an inquisitive eyebrow at Khelladon.

Khelladon nods his head in the direction of the Ladies softly 
saying, "Related to Sands and Delwin somehow."

In normal conversation level, Khelladon, "Sebastian you know there 
are no children from shape shifters unless we want them. It is so 
easy to control that aspect that there can be none until I want 
them."

Tuval, "But still the conventions are to be expected as they have 
served us of the Courts for as long as we have recorded history."

Khelladon, "That and until I come to terms with my father they don't 
like the fact that I haven't accepted him for leaving my mother 
pregnant and without any support in a culture that frowns upon such 
things."

Sebastian cocks an eyebrow at the mention of Sands and Delwin, but 
continues with the conversation. "Yes of course I know." *Heavy 
sigh* "So publicly denounce your mistress and accept your father. 
They'll have what they want and you'll have what you want. Well, 
mostly anyway. So tell me friend, is there any other news, I'm 
afraid I'm tiring of the current subject, no disrespect intended of 
course."And Sebastian beams one of his magnanimous smiles!

Khelladon frowns, "I'd rather find a way to keep her and continue to 
ignore him." He shakes his head, "As you say this is not the best 
topic. Have you run into Raphael recently? He is here in the castle 
in a meeting but I will be seeing him after that."

Sebastian rolls his eyes and shakes his head in a playful and 
dramatic way, then smiles again, glad the conversation is taking a 
different turn. "No. I haven't seen Raphael in ages! Do tell, will 
this be a private meeting? It's been so long since anything 
interesting has happened. Aside from the war of course. So, do you 
think I could 'tag along' when you see Raphael?"

Khelladon, "Right now he is in a somewhat private meeting, about the 
war. I will be seeing him after words and meet with Marcus. You 
remember Deirdre's eldest son. I think you might have met him. He is 
from a oddly Arabian style planet in a futuristic shadow." 
Sebastian, "Of course I remember Marcus! I believe he mentioned a 
trip to that shadow of his, too. Hmmm, maybe I should tag along to 
get him to make good on the offer. What do you say cousin? Up for a 
little road trip? Or are these meetings strictly business?"

Khelladon, "I will be talking business with Raphael for a little bit 
then enjoying Marcus' hospitality. He has I understand a new servant 
that is a most skilled dancer. I am planning on spending dinner in 
his little apartment in the city tonight. After all there is most 
likely some fighting from the Dark Walkers tomorrow or the next day."

Sebastian finishes his soup and his wine, "Ah dancing! Now you're 
talking! Gentlemen, if you'll excuse me, I see an opportunity about 
to slip away." Sebastian stands up and approaches the table behind 
Khelladon with the two young ladies.

**Sebastian with Iris**

Sebastian to two young ladies, "Good day M'ladies! Could I interest 
you in a dance?"

Iris looks up from her food, which is almost gone, and smiling 
says, "Who might you be sir?...and where do you suggest we dance?" 
glancing amusedly at Mihoshi.

Sebastian, "Of course! How rude of me! My name is Sebastian." 
Sebastian executes a low sweeping bow to both young ladies and turns 
back to the one who spoke first. "And trust me, fair maiden, if we 
were to dance, there would be room enough." Then presents the ladies 
with his most winsome smile.

Iris smiles at Sebastian gamely and says, "Perhaps....in a bit. I 
have just finished dining. Would you care to join us in a glass of 
wine or a mug of ale?" extending her right hand," My name is Iris."

Sebastian takes Iris' hand, lowers his head without breaking eye 
contact and places a soft gentle kiss on the back of her hand. "It 
would be an honor and a pleasure." Sebastian takes the empty seat 
next to Iris.

Iris looks straight into Sebastian's eyes, cocks her head, smiles 
and says, " So, what brings you to Amber?" and then Iris pours 
Sebastian a glass of wine while awaiting his response.

Sebastian, "Iris. Well now I know who they named that beautiful 
flower after." Smiles and accepts the glass and takes a sip. "I have 
many purposes here, none of which are terribly pressing at the 
moment. In fact, nothing seems to be as incredibly important as 
spending some time with you."

Iris leans back, takes a sip of wine and slowly smiles, "Well, 
aren't you charming. Perhaps ... we will have that dance after all. 
So, tell me about yourself.....I always wish to know more 
interesting people." and placing her glass down awaits his reply.

Sebastian, "Alas, fair maiden, it would seem I am meant to be a 
disappointment. Though I confess to possessing a small amount of 
charm, meeting you is by far the most interesting event I have 
encountered. I sincerely hope this doesn't effect your decision 
about that dance."

Iris laughs, a light musical sound, "Why, of course it doesn't 
change my mind. Perhaps after the wine we shall dance?" Iris appears 
to be glancing around at the crowded room.

Sebastian looks relieved. "Good, I was actually worried for a brief 
moment. Am I interrupting anything, are you expecting someone?"

Iris smiles and says, " No you are not. We were just having a quick 
bite to eat." smiling mischievously Iris adds, " I was just looking 
about trying to figure out where you plan to put the dance floor. 
You appear to be a regular at this establishment."

Sebastian, "Well, I don't know that I'm a 'regular' as you say. But 
I am known." He finishes his wine and says, "Please excuse me for a 
moment, I need to see to the preparations for our dance"

Sebastian walks over to the bar area and begins speaking with the 
older gentleman who appears to be proprietor. After a moment the 
older gentleman glances toward the table Sebastian has left and 
begins to smile broadly. The older man nods his head as if in 
agreement and heads toward the kitchen and staff area of the 
establishment.

Sebastian returns to the table wearing an impish grin. "We should be 
dancing momentarily, M'Lady."

Khelladon smiles a bit and waves to Sebastian, "I shall see you 
later. I am going to go see first Marcus in his rooms then Raphael 
after that. Until later then." Tuval is behind Khelladon and they 
begin talking again as they leave.

Iris can't help but smile at Sebastian's can do attitude.

Sebastian returns Khelladon's smile and wave as the older gentleman 
and his wife approach. He is carrying a fiddle and she is holding a 
tin whistle.

As they reach the table Sebastian stands up. "Iris this is Mr. and 
Mrs. McGintie, the owners of this fine establishment."

Mrs. McGintie, "Pleased to meet you child! You look like you could 
use some meat".

Mr. McGintie to Mrs. McGintie, "Now love, leave the girl alone." And 
he turns to Sebastian and Iris. "We are gonna play a little jig for 
you. I believe there's plenty of room over by the hearth." nodding 
in the direction of the fireplace.

Iris smiles and nods to Mr. and Mrs. McGintie, " It is an honor to 
meet the owners of such a fine establishment. If I were to continue 
to partake of your good food I wouldn't have to worry about my 
weight."

Sebastian takes Iris by the hand and leads her over to the fireplace 
and waits for the music to begin.

Taking Sebastian's hand, Iris follows him to the dance floor, 
saying. "It has been years since I have danced in this fashion." 
Iris grins playfully waiting on Sebastian to take the lead.

Mr. and Mrs. McGintie begin to play. Sebastian begins by making a 
bow to Iris then quickly leading her in a very artful but simple 
Irish Jig. After the first few steps Sebastian asks. "So tell me 
Iris, what brings you here today?"

Iris, obviously enjoying the dance, says" I was in a nearby shadow 
healing the sick when I was summoned by my Aunt and Uncle."

Sebastian smiles, "Ah a doctor? Seems fitting. I know a beautiful 
young lady treating my wounds would help cure my ails. How long will 
you be staying? I hope I'm not being too forward but I was hoping to 
see you for dinner."

Iris smiles cheerfully, "Well, although I am unsure exactly how long 
I will be here, I am sure that, barring "unforeseen events", I will 
be around for dinner. I would be honored to have dinner with such a 
gallant, polite man...who is a fine dancer as well. Where and when 
would you like to meet?", Iris smiles at him with her violet eyes.

Sebastian smiling, "Well thank you M'Lady Let`s see, where to go? 
Hmmm. Well if there`s one thing this marvelous city is NOT short of, 
it`s eating establishments. Take McGintie's here for example, it's a 
fine place for a lunch or a quick drink, but not exactly a dinner 
establishment." Sebastian leans in to Iris' ear and whispers, "Don't 
say a word to the Mr. and Mrs. though. It would break their saintly 
hearts."

Sebastian smiles and speaks in a conversational tone once more, "Now 
it all depends on what you may be in the mood for. There is 
Hambry's, an exquisite establishment located on Palace Lane. The 
owner/operator takes great pride in his menu of shadow cuisine and 
showcases one particular dish each night. Then there is a quaint 
little shop, called The Blue Unicorn. This magnificent little eatery 
is home to the famous Pheasant D'Arden. The cook is rumored to be a 
retired ranger, and to have obtained the recipe from Prince Julian 
himself." Sebastian realizes he is rambling and so finishes 
thus, "And of course there are any number of others." Smiling at 
Iris he awaits her response.

Iris laughs," Well I think the Blue Unicorn sounds like a lovely 
choice. However I must go see my Aunt and Uncle first. Would you 
like to meet there say around seven?" Iris flashes a seductive smile 
at Sebastian.

**Sebastian heads to the Castle**

With impeccable timing, the song ends and the room filled with 
patrons explodes in applause as Sebastian kneels and kisses Iris' 
hand. "I would be thrilled and honored to meet you at seven. Now, I 
must take my leave."

And with that Sebastian turns to the room and executes a perfect 
theatrical bow to the appreciative audience, then turns to Mr. and 
Mrs. McGintie and bows once more before heading for the door.

Khelladon has a someone waiting that comes up to you, Michael hasn't 
changed at all since you last saw him, "Lord Khelladon has headed up 
to his rooms in the castle. How have you been doing and are you 
ready for a bit of a formal affair tonight? Lady Syth-rac is going 
to be here soon and Lord Khelladon will be he said, 'Presenting her 
with an offer she would like'. He also said he needs someone there 
so he is getting together a small party before the problems that 
might be happening on the tomorrow."

As Iris heads out the door she winks at Sebastian.

Sebastian Smiles and greets Michael with a firm hand shake and nods 
politely to Iris and her friend as they pass. "Good to see you 
friend!" Then Sebastian frowns slightly, "Hmmm... Did he mention a 
time, Michael?" Sebastian shakes his head and before Michael has a 
chance to respond, "Ah no matter. I was heading to the Castle 
anyway." Sebastian smiles again and grasps Michael's 
shoulder, "Well, sorry to run off so soon, but duty calls. Take care 
of yourself, friend!" With that Sebastian walks to the side of the 
building where his horse is tethered, mounts up, and rides to the 
castle.

Once at the castle you are in formed of several things going on. A 
meeting with several Amberites and that Marcus left word that if you 
were to show up to see him about a parts that happened several 
months ago in a distant shadow, and recently Marcus has returned and 
is last anyone knew in his rooms as well.

Sebastian thanks the young man and then considers his options. 
Needing only a brief moment to decide he heads for the apartments of 
Marcus. It only takes him a couple of minutes, as he knows the way 
well. Once Sebastian arrives at the room he knocks on the door.

**Marcus' rooms**

A knock on the door of Marcus' rooms and a servant opens the door 
and shows Sebastian in Marcus stands to greet his second 
guest, "Sebastian welcome, do you wish to eat with us? We are about 
to watch my newest dancer and take dessert. I have rolled sweet 
meats from Sparta."

The dancer woman is striking to see, what little of her you can see, 
her eyes are solid blue and her ears came to points like those of 
elves of story, her body is covered in many veils of gem colors and 
held together by gold and silver chains.

Nathaniel nodded to Sebastian, the new arrival. He offered his hand.

"Well hello there," he said in Shadow Earth English. "I'm Nathaniel 
Carter. I only recently came to Amber for the first time, and I'm 
still learning about this place. I hope you won't think it rude of 
me, but I will have to leave shortly, for further instruction from 
Fiona in the Pattern. It's a pleasure to meet you."

Marcus, "I will stay and keep you company if you wish it or you 
could see Nathaniel get lessons from Fiona. She has changed things 
in the training. She built a connection into the lesson she implants 
into the new user's mind. The new connection allows one to get a 
minor feed back from the Pattern itself at the Veils and Grand 
Curve. Nathaniel is progressing quiet nicely because of this. I'd 
imagine that on a second run he would be able to feel when he is off 
step now too."

Sebastian greets the new comer with a smile and a nod. He accepts 
the hand offered by Nathaniel and says, "Welcome. From shadow Earth 
I see. I am Sebastian, eldest son of Prince Caine. So you are 
studying the pattern, hmmm? I wouldn`t dare keep you from aunt 
Fiona. I`m sure there will be ample opportunity to chat another 
time." Sebastian turns to Marcus, "I believe I will partake of your 
hospitality cousin, thank you." Sebastian nods his head in the 
direction of the dancer and smiles. "But tell me, were you not 
expecting Khelladon as well?" Sebastian signals to one of the 
servants to bring him a drink.

Nathaniel nodded to both Marcus and Sebastian. "If both of you will 
excuse me, I will get back to Fiona." He shook Marcus's hand 
briefly. "Thank you for the meal and for the company, it has been a 
pleasure."

Nathaniel also shook hands briefly with Sebastian. "It was a 
pleasure to meet you also. Perhaps if the two of you have time, you 
could come visit me while I am training. Marcus knows where I am."

Nathaniel paused only briefly to make sure he had the Organizer in 
his pockets, then smiled again at them both and took his leave 
heading back to the gardens he had left Fiona and Mandor in.

Sebastian watches Nathaniel leave and when he is no longer in 
earshot, Sebastian then turns to Marcus, "Who does he belong to?"

Marcus, "I do not know. He told a tail that ended with him falling 
into the harbor near Gerard with what sounds like the use of a 
trapped trump that would let into what ever shadow Gerard is in and 
near him. Now mind you that organizer he has is far beyond the level 
of technology of 1997 earth unless someone went to some effort to 
change things, mind you from the look he had when its defenses 
activated and its repair ability started he was as surprised as I 
was."

Sebastian, "Hmmm. Well, time will tell I suppose. So tell me how are 
things going in that tech world of yours?"

Marcus, "The genetic manipulation of the Motie race has produced a 
much better and more stable race of mechanical specialists. I also 
have gotten them into a better organization to deal with the Empire 
of Man. Not that I like them better then the humans but I find them 
more useful."

Marcus sits, "Would you like to see the new dancer now? And do you 
want to eat?"

Sebastian nods and sits as Marcus does. "I believe entertainment 
would be most excellent. As far as food goes, if you are consuming, 
then so shall I." And Sebastian settles back in his seat in 
preparation for the dance.

Marcus, "I have just finished partaking of my meal with Nathaniel."

His dancer is a lovely lady with oddly light green tint to her skin. 
She dances with a flowing style as if used to dancing underwater.

Her partner in the dance is matching as if they are a set, the two 
women are so close in their movements, the only real difference is 
the eyes of one are sky blue and the others are emerald green. The 
new dancer finishes and the older one that worked for Marcus before 
is sweating, she bows out sweating at having to keep up with the 
graceful movements and surprisingly flowing speed of the dance.

Sebastian watches the dance with interest, especially keeping his 
eye on the younger woman. When the dance is finished, Sebastian 
shows his approval to the dancers and then turns to 
Marcus, "Remarkable. Do you breed them to get these results? Or do 
you just look for the traits you want? Either way, my compliments!"

Marcus, "I don't personally breed them but I have several 
established places where I have breeding programs in place. Hers is 
for a humanoid air and water breather that is able to perform 
certain services I wanted at the time. Her ability to dance like 
this is just a lovely side effect of that project."

Sebastian cocks an eyebrow slightly and nods. "I see. So tell me 
friend, when I arrived at the castle, I received word that there was 
a matter you wished to speak to me about. May we discuss this now, 
or does it involve Khelladon as well?"

Marcus, "Some what, I have an idea that might be of use with his 
help for this upcoming battle. In fact I was going to suggest an 
alliance. You know that he has an implanted item of considerable 
power? I was going to suggest that he and you and I form an alliance 
with Gabriel and Raphael. A pooling of weapons and information so 
that we might survive better from this war."

He smiles, "I have talked with the others as I have seen them sooner 
and mostly everyone is good with this idea. I wanted to know if you 
were going to want to join in this and if you knew some others that 
might be good to add to this. Gabriel is going to approach Circaea 
about this soon as well."

Sebastian listens as Marcus explains, frowning slightly he says, "I 
suppose it's inevitable. I can't seem to find the kind of fun I 
would really like at the present . . . " He lets his words trail off 
for a moment and looks thoughtful, then with a smile and 
enthusiasm, "Yes cousin, I will ally with you. There are points in 
this operation that interest me, perhaps I will have the 
satisfaction of learning something new." With that, Sebastian lifts 
his glass in salute and finishes what was left of his drink.

Marcus smiles, "Good. We have been working quietly and slowly to get 
together enough power to form our own power-base independent of 
Amber or Chaos. If Amber is to be saved I will bet that our Elders 
are not really the best ones for it. They are too concerned with 
each other to face an outside enemy."

Sebastian, "I'll drink to that!" And he signals a member of Marcus' 
staff to bring another drink, then continues, "Do you mind 
discussing how you came to choose this group? It makes no difference 
to me either way. Just curiosity, you understand." Sebastian accepts 
the drink the staff member has retrieved for him and takes a sip as 
he looks at Marcus expectantly.

Marcus, "Education. Together we each have different things to teach 
each other."

Sebastian smiles and says, "Fair enough. Now, about this meeting 
being held as we speak, If I'm not mistaken, Circaea is in 
attendance. Are you of the mind that something useful will come out 
of it? Or more importantly, do you feel it will have any bearing on 
our plans? And speaking of plans, when will there be a briefing of 
what is currently on our agenda? And since I'm in the mood to ask 
questions, where is that cousin of ours? He said he was bringing 
Lady Shandar and wanted a small party together before the problems 
that might occur actually do. I'm assuming of course he expects 
physical danger. Anyway, I'm rambling and haven't allowed you to get 
a single word. Please, jump in at anytime." And as Sebastian pauses, 
he takes a few sips from his drink.

Marcus, "Well first yes Lady Shandar is coming to Amber. If you 
remember the lady she is much stronger then she looks and they are 
good at taking care of each other. The meeting is from what I 
understand reps from the various Realms talking and working an 
overall plan to fight the Dark Walkers. One bit of new news on that 
front is the Dark Walkers themselves are not important, they are a 
tool of a race called Dragosians. The group I asked you to join will 
be there and we are planning on asking Shandar and some Chaosians to 
join as well. The cover we are using will be creating a combined 
realms university to pool information and abilities."

Sebastian, "Ah, clever. A university!" Sebastian nods his head, 
smiling. "Interesting bit of news there. Perhaps we could explore 
the depth of loyalty on their part, then. I'm referring of course to 
the Dragosians." Sebastian pauses for a moment and looks 
thoughtful, "Yes, I remember she bested me two out of three in a 
friendly fencing match sometime back. Which makes me wonder what it 
is Khelladon has in store when they are both able to defend 
themselves." He lets the words trail off as he continues to look 
thoughtful.

Marcus, "Rumor has it they have a group mind of some sort. Might be 
a little hard to test the loyalty of someone that always has someone 
watching them."

Sebastian, "Hmmm. Well, it's a thought anyway. You know, there's 
nothing that says we have to wait here for Khelladon to show up. We 
could go find him ourselves. What do you say?"

Marcus, "A good idea. I know that he and Tuval are going to be 
making ready for Shandar. I also know his maid and lover Gabriel has 
a surprise for him." Marcus laughs, "That little Gabriel and Shandar 
are good friends and both know about the other and don't mind. They 
are going to let him know when Shandar gets here." He leads the way 
to Khelladon's rooms and Gabriel is there.

**Khelladon's rooms**

Gabriel, "Greetings Lords. How might I help you?"

Sebastian executes a bow and responds, "Greetings to you, Miss. Your 
employer is expecting us, in a manner of speaking." Sebastian 
flashes a winning smile and continues, "You see, we grew tired of 
waiting for his summons and decided to seek him out ourselves. May 
we enter?"

Gabriel smiles, stepping back, "Yes sir, My Lord will be back 
shortly I would expect. Lady Venus was looking for him as well. He 
seems decidedly popular today."

Marcus also enters and sits down, "How long until Lady Shandar 
arrives?"

Gabriel, "Something like an hour or two as I understand it. Would 
either of you like some refreshments while you wait?"

Sebastian takes the seat offered, "Refreshments would be very nice, 
thank you." He smiles broadly and looks around the room. "You appear 
to be ready for their arrival as well. My compliments to the staff 
on their efficiency."

Gabriel, "We do our very best." She gets a glass of wine and some 
hors `dourvrs that are both slightly sweet and color coordinated, 
light blue both.

Lord Tuval knocks and is let in, with an early arriving Shandar, her 
muscles showing under her tight leather shirt and skirt. Her black 
hair is long and tied back into her ranking knots, second heir house 
Syth-rac.

Lord Tuval nods, "Sebastian, greeting again. Lord Marcus, good to 
see you. May I present Lord Shandar."

Shandar smiles, "I have seen them before no need for the flowery 
stuff." She steps close and grabs Marcus giving him a squeeze that 
leaves him groaning, she sets him down and gets ready to move to 
Sebastian.

Sebastian stands, nods to Tuval, grins at Marcus' response, and 
prepares to greet Shandar himself.

Shandar is even stronger then you last remember, once she lets go 
and your ribs return to normal size, she smiles, "So what have you 
been up to you little scamp?"

Sebastian returns Shandar's smile and replies, "Most recently my 
time has been spent pursuing a rare manuscript from Shadow Earth 
circa 1890. Truthfully, I have become board and I am seeking some 
fun. But enough about me! Tell us what you have been up to. Anything 
exciting?" Sebastian takes a step to the side and indicates the seat 
he has just vacated.

She smiles, "I have just been given recognition from Lord Hendrake 
himself for an operation I did within the ranks of their Elite 
Guards. Turns out there was a Major that was trying to build his own 
little secret army within the ranks so they could all break away and 
form their own little house that was to try and serve as a mercenary 
Elite Guard to the highest bidder. That was their plan any way. I 
took the form of one of them and got the names of everyone involved 
and the Major is now wishing he was just executed, the other five 
are being taken care of for their lack of Loyalty to House Hendrake."

Sebastian smiles and nods his head in approval of Shandar's 
tale. "How exciting! But of course, we wouldn't expect any less from 
you!" Sebastian raises his glass and says, "Here's to Shandar and 
her continued success!"

Marcus joins in, "Cheers to the Lady."

The door opens and Khelladon walks in, sees everyone there and 
smiles, "And what is it that the lovely Lady Shandar is being 
commended for?"

Sebastian turns toward the door to greet his cousin and friend, 
Khelladon. "Why, her latest success of course! And to the 
continuation there of. Come! Join us!" And Sebastian hands Khelladon 
a drink.

Khelladon takes the drink, "I can drink to her success without 
knowing what it is because it is her success."

Gabriel smiles, "My Lord shall I get the things you wanted now?"

Khelladon, "Not yet."

Shandar, "What's this? A surprise? I want it now!"

Marcus smiles and nearly chokes at this.

Sebastian raises his eyebrows, grinning and slaps Marcus on the 
back. Then turns to Khelladon and says playfully, "Come now cousin. 
Surely you wouldn't deny the Lady what is hers, would you? I would 
think you had learned this lesson, at least" And with that he gives 
Marcus a knowing wink.

Khelladon looks, "Some how I get the feeling I am not the only one 
with surprises in store for someone today."

Shandar steps to Khelladon and he steps back smiling at her, "Yes 
lovely one?"

She grins, "You have a surprise for me? I want it. Don't make me 
take it Khell."

Gabriel 'accidentally' gets in the way causing Khelladon to misstep 
which lets Shandar get her hands on Khelladon and lift him and hold 
him in front of her.

She slowly looks him in the eye and says very carefully, "I. Want. 
My. Surprise. Now."

Sebastian to Marcus, "I guess we'll find out if he really did learn 
that lesson." And knowing both Shandar and Khelladon, Sebastian 
takes a step back to allow them a bit more space.