No sooner had I arrived at the ball than Flora had put me to work on last minute preparations. I set out silverware, stocked the buffet, and sampled the punch before the guests started filtering in. Flora had arranged to have a twenty-seven piece brass band play for the ball. Now Random would have trumpeters. Flora was still busy attending to details when the ball began, so I mingled lightly and paid close attention to Amber's dance style. The steps weren't too complex. I was sure I could duplicate most of the dances. I felt confident enough to extrapolate a little to add originality. I nodded to Locke, who had arrived with his date- a woman I had not seen before. I wandered into a conversation with Lord Bayle, who I congratulated on the fine wine I consumed last night. He was happy to accept praise and publicity from a new Prince of Amber.

I noticed Jessica and Konstantin sitting in a corner chatting. I was sad that I hadn't had time to teach Jessica the dance steps she had asked me to show her. It was too bad they weren't out dancing, enjoying themselves. I pictured them dancing. The height difference would be pretty amusing. While I was watching them or daydreaming, I don't know which, Flora snuck up on me.

"Enjoying yourself?"

"Certainly. I love parties and this one is quite spectacular. Hold on a moment..." I fetched the flowers I had for her. "These are for you."

"Thank you, they're beautiful."

"I've been told flowers don't grow well in shadow, but these seem to have done all right. Say, I've been dying to dance with you. Do you like this song?"

"I like them all. Someone has to select them, you know."

Connie and Jessica tried to tease me about being smitten, but how could it bother me? I was in a marvelous mood. I did a little counter-teasing of my own. Soon Flora was making the announcements of the night.

It was officially proclaimed that Jessica was the daughter of Benedict.
It was officially proclaimed that I was the son of Bleys.
It was officially proclaimed that Konstantin was the son of Rinaldo. - This one caused a small stir.
It was officially proclaimed that Locke was the grandson of Oberon. - This surprised even Flora as she read it. Random look a little shocked, but he took it in stride. There must be more doubt about his parents than I thought.

After several toasts we returned to the merriment. The night would've been perfect had not Bleys arrived with a battered and unconscious Merlin in his arms.