Ursula begins to enjoy her outings with Senia, but then news comes that the renovations to the Great Hall are complete. Wallesan decides to host a banquet for all those involved in the reconstruction of hall and mansion. Another potential talent of Ursula is revealed as she joins in the evening, but the music is not to her taste.

The Voyage of the Visund

A tale of Anmar by Penny Lane

19 - The Great Hall

Disclaimer: The original characters and plot of this story are the property of the author. No infringement of pre-existing copyright is intended. This story is copyright (c) 2019 Penny Lane. All rights reserved.

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"And that is why we are so careful with the green potion," Senia said to Ursula. "Is it not the same in Alberta? Did you not have potions that are useful yet also dangerous?"

The two walked under the clock tower on their way back into the mansion's front courtyard. This was the third day that Ursula had accompanied Senia on her house calls and the two had become comfortable with each other's presence.

"That is true of almost all potions, Senia," Ursula said, "but we do not call them potions. We use other names such as medicines or medications. Almost all our medicines are made by us from chemicals in large factories, though, not produced from local herbs by practitioners like yourself. In Alberta we don't do that any more."

"Chemicals? And what are factories, Ursula? I do not know what that means, though I have heard the word once or twice recently."

"Oh, a factory is a large... workshop, I suppose, would be the nearest similar building here. Factories are usually dedicated to making a small number of related products, and in the quantities needed by our much larger populations. It is supposed to be more efficient, and for medicines it means that each healer like ourselves can be sure of the quality and dosage of all that we use, rather than relying on our own knowledge of local plants."

"Do you tell me that you do not know what goes into your potions?" Senia was surprised. "I would find that unsettling, I deem. If I make something myself, then I know what is in it and what is not."

"Well... I agree, up to a point. But a healer in Alberta may have to see a lot more people in a day, and that leaves little time for the making of potions or medicines."

They reached the entrance to the mansion. The armsman greeted them with a smile.

"Mistress Ursula, Mistress Senia, welcome back."

"Thank you, Dirgan," Ursula replied. "All is well, I assume?"

"As you say, Mistress. His Grace and Her Grace are presently visiting in the city. Her Highness has gone out with her ladies-at-arms for another ride into the country, but I am told they should be back well before the evening meal. Lord Kalmenar resides within, but otherwise I fear you must needs entertain yourself until the others return."

Senia looked concerned. "Do you wish me to stay until Her Grace or Her Highness returns, Ursula? You should not be left here without a companion."

"I do not want to keep you from your family, Senia. They see little enough of you as it is. I should be all right here in the mansion, I know my way around now and I can always go into the kitchens if I become bored."

"As you wish, Ursula." Senia turned to Dirgan. "You look after her, you hear? I have discovered that she is a knowledgeable healer and her abilities will certainly benefit our city."

Dirgan bowed. "As you command, Mistress."

Senia looked at him suspiciously but the response seemed honest. "Then, Ursula, I will return again tomorrow morning." She thought. "If you are still willing?"

"Of course, Senia. I would rather be doing something than nothing and I have learned much in the days I have been with you."

"Aye. It is strange to me, who was taught to be a healer in the time-honored way of our people, to discover that there are other ways of helping the sick and the injured. If you have learned from me, then I have also learned from you. Our abilities overlap, and we can only become better from our association."

"I am surprised to admit that I agree, Senia. Until tomorrow morning, then."

"As you say. Good day to you."

Senia nodded to Dirgan and walked off across the courtyard towards the entrance archway. Ursula looked at the armsman.

"I think I'll go straight along to the kitchens, Dirgan. That way somebody else will know that I am around."

"An excellent thought, Mistress."

Even though she was going inside and simply intended to walk the length of the lower floor corridor, Dirgan followed her in and watched from the doorway as she did so. It was only when she turned the corner that he returned to his post in the porch.

They follow me everywhere! They do not allow me a single moment on my own.

She began to scowl but one of the kitchen staff, busy in the ante-room, saw her and smiled.

"Mistress Ursula! Welcome. I will tell Master Farren that you are here."

I might be paranoid... but it is possible they just treat all single women the same way.

This world is a very strange place.

"That's all right, Turis," she smiled back. "I will tell him myself."

She walked through and the chef, as she still thought of him, came over, wiping his hands on the towel at his waist.

"Mistress Ursula, greetings! Is there something I might do for you?"

"Master Farren, thank you but no. I have merely returned from tending the sick and injured of Joth and was looking for something to do until everybody else reappeared."

"Ah, indeed, of course, the Duke and Duchess are visiting the silversmiths this afternoon and Her Highness is out riding again with her two companions." He considered. "I must remember that you, also, are a guest of His Grace and should not be involved in the duties of his household staff but," he smiled, "we have had this argument before. If you would join Senny at the far table there, you may be interested in the method she uses to make a cake."

"I would be happy to help, Master Farren. I will wash my hands first, I think. Can I ask, is there any pel available? I have just spent more than a bell walking in the heat of the afternoon."

"Surely! It can become hot in the kitchen, too, as the weather warms. Come, I will bring you a mug."

Ursula was still absorbed in the baking process half a bell later when Bellot, Wallesan's Chamberlain, entered the kitchen to speak to Farren. While going over the requirements for the evening meal, he noticed Ursula and spoke to Farren.

"Ursula! If you would join us a moment."

She wiped the flour from her hands and walked over to join Farren and Bellot.

"Mistress Ursula, I did not know that you were here in the kitchen," Bellot said. "Farren has explained your reasons for being here and I do not object, nor do I think Their Graces would object. I know, however, that some in the city would consider it unseemly for a guest of His Grace to be doing such menial work."

"If anybody thinks that baking cakes is menial work, then they have never tried to make one," she replied tartly. "There can be as much skill in the making as there is in carving some of the woodwork I have seen around the mansion."

"Mistress, I do not disagree. Now I have to tell you that Duban asked me to pass word that he has nearly finished a new saddle for you, and that it should be ready for you tomorrow morning. It is, I am told, in the new Palarandi style, though I have not yet seen the new saddles for myself."

"Oh. Um, thank you, Bellot. Does this mean that Her Highness will expect me to go for a ride with her tomorrow?"

"I do not know, Mistress. You already know how to ride, I assume?"

"Me? I have never before sat on any animal, Bellot. This will be yet another thing I will have to learn." She frowned. "I'm not sure that I could do that tomorrow, my riding clothes have not yet arrived."

"Ah, there you may be wrong, Mistress," Bellot smiled. "This afternoon, while you were out, a large package was delivered by a seamstress which may contain attire for you. It was addressed to Her Grace, though, as is customary, which means that you must needs wait until the Duke and Duchess return to discover if it contains anything for you."

"Oh. Thank you, Bellot."

"You may also be interested to learn that our artisans have told me that they have finished their work on the Great Hall, and that His Grace will take formal possession before this evening's meal, which will be served there. All his guests will be invited to attend."

"The Great Hall, is that the room that faces the kitchen in the entrance way?"

"Aye, Mistress, though I would not care to call it a room." He smiled. "You will see when you go there this evening. If I might suggest, a formal gown may be appropriate."

"A formal gown?" She frowned. "I think I can manage that, though as you know, I do not have a large wardrobe. Is there anything else special that I should do?"

"None, Mistress, that Her Highness's companions may not do for you. I would assume that their duties to the King mean that they are familiar with such occasions."

"If you say so. Thank you again, Bellot."

He smiled again. "It is my function, Mistress, to ensure the smooth running of His Grace's mansion, but it is always gratifying to be appreciated. Ah, if I may suggest, Her Highness will soon return to the mansion and it will then be time for you to prepare yourself for the meal. You should spend no more than another bell in here with Farren."

"Thank you for the warning, Bellot."

Ursula wandered back to the table where Senny was decorating the several cakes they had baked that afternoon, which she now realized would probably be served at the forthcoming meal. As the only sweetener available seemed to be a kind of honey, there was no icing but small berries and nuts were artfully arranged over the surface of the cake.

A little later, a shout came from one of the other kitchen staff, who pointed through a window at the courtyard. Ursula looked and could see a group of recently-arrived frayen being tended to, with their riders standing together discussing their ride. Maralin was plainly visible in his blue and white uniform, as was Eriana, by virtue of her height and the broadsword slung across her back.

"Master Farren, it looks like the riders are back."

"As I see, Mistress." The chef smiled. "I give you thanks for your help this afternoon. Did you learn anything?"

"The ingredients were not familiar to me, Master Farren, but I enjoyed seeing how you do things here." She smiled. "I liked the taste of some of those little berries, though."

"Which, the purple ones?"

"That's right. Are they fresh?"

"Those are, though sometimes they are preserved in wine against the winter. We are fortunate here that some of our fruits come early in the year, normally such decoration would not be possible for two months or more yet."

"Really? I didn't think... of course, it is still spring here, I believe. Where I come from, at this season, there would be little fruit of any kind for at least four or five months. Unless we preserved them, of course."

"Ah? Another thing I must needs ask you or Maralin about, the methods of preserving you use. So, I think it is time for you to go and greet those who have just returned. And," he added with a smile, "enjoy this evening's meal, for you will know how it has been prepared."

"Thank you for putting up with me."

The main corridor was busy, but almost all those she saw were household staff who she recognized, so there was no cause to be alarmed. She reached the front door just as the riders came around the corner from the rear courtyard.

"Ursula! I trust you have not been standing there all afternoon waiting for us to return?"

"Highness, I have not. I have been in the kitchen helping out for the special meal we are to have tonight."

The others joined her in the entrance hall as Eriana asked, "Special meal?"

"I am not sure. Bellot said something about the Great Hall being handed over to the Duke and that we would eat there."

"That is so," said Bellot, coming up behind Ursula. "Highness, Ladies, Tenant, we are told that the work on the Great Hall is now complete, and thus for the first time since the invaders were removed there will be no artisans working anywhere on or in the mansion. His Grace intends to give a banquet for those responsible for the rebuilding work inside the hall itself, but of course all his guests will be invited as well. He asks that you treat this meal as a formal occasion."

"Well! That will be something different, I deem. Come, ladies, we must go and prepare ourselves for the meal. Bellot, how long do we have? Having ridden, we must needs bathe before we may consider our evening attire."

"You have about a bell, Highness, or perhaps a bell and a half. Though the meal is set for sunset, some of those attending must needs come across the city and we would not begin until all arrive."

"I understand. It was much the same in my father's court... although, I must admit, if you were very late he would not look on you favorably."

"As you say, Highness. One should not keep a King waiting."

Eriana turned to the others. "Girls? Let us go and see what we may conjure for tonight's event. His Grace entertains craftsmen, it is true, but even they will consider our attire as carefully as he does. Ursula? Shall you join us?"

"Of course, Highness. I am as curious about this evening as you must be."

* * *

"If you would turn around, Mistress."

Ursula did so and Bennet examined the results carefully.

"I am no expert at the tending of hair, Mistress, but I believe that few will find fault with yours tonight. I am now used to seeing some with short hair, it is true, but I do not have the arts for arranging it as others might."

Ursula looked at herself in the dressing room mirror. The long blue gown, which must have been some kind of silk, flowed down from her shoulders and was gathered at the waist. From there it fell gently to the floor, showing off her figure in a satisfying manner.

I have waited my whole life to do this! This is really me and I can be who I was meant to be.

Her hair had been tidied and very carefully trimmed by Bennet before karzal-nut oil had been sparingly rubbed in. Although it was not possible to pile it on her head as the guardswoman had done with her own hair, the end result looked good to her eyes. For this occasion she had decided not to wear the black 'Alice' ribbon that now made her recognizable in Joth's streets.

"The work is good, Bennet. I could not have trimmed it myself, it needs someone standing behind to see where it falls properly." She frowned. "A pity I do not yet have any accessories to go with the gown."

"Accessories, Mistress?"

"Yes, you know, the things a woman usually wears when she dresses up. Or... do they not do that around here? I'm speaking of rings, bracelets, necklaces, brooches, ear-rings, that sort of thing."

"Oh, aye, Mistress! Of course a mere guardswoman may not have jewelry such as Her Highness or Her Grace might wear, but both Semma and I have small pieces of sentimental value." Bennet smiled. "You will soon accumulate such pieces of your own, I deem. With your status and abilities, I see no reason you should not in time purchase or be gifted items for your own collection." Bennet's look was assured. "You will see."

"If you say so."

They have a very strange attitude to property and money around here. So far I have not paid for a single thing I have worn, nor a single meal I have eaten! I know there is commerce, since that day at the market, but it does not seem to affect the Duke's household.

Yet this whole system seems to work... somehow.

There was a knock at the door. Bennet opened it to reveal Semma, suitably attired in a long gown.

"Her Highness asks if you are both ready yet."

Bennet glanced at Ursula and received a nod. "Aye, Semma, we are ready. Shall we join you?"

"Aye. Her Highness makes some final adjustments but otherwise we are also ready."

In the event Eriana appeared before the others reached her door. The four turned and made their way along the corridor and down the stairs. At the bottom a footman stood waiting.

"Highness, His Grace asks that you wait in the sitting room until he and Her Grace appear."

Inside the otherwise empty sitting room Eriana smiled. "This is what we do when important occasions happen, Ursula. Much of the time we stand about and wait. At Dekarran, where we met to form the Federation, there was more standing about and waiting than I was comfortable with, for we had Kings, Princes, Dukes and others of like rank attending the same table. At least I did not have to concern myself with the politics of that occasion. I am a woman of action, not of slippery words."

"So I have learned," Ursula responded politely. "I have heard you and the Duke speak of a Federation, but without understanding the history and geography of this world I do not know if I would understand your explanation."

"Aye, the Duke has been remiss with your education, I deem. He has maps here, I know that, and there must be many who can tell you what you want to know. Mayhap I will mention it to him, should a chance come tonight."

"Thank you, Highness. There is a problem, though. I can speak this language but I cannot read or write it."

"But of course! Garia told me that she had the like trouble and I am sure that Maralin did as well. You can read and write your own tongue, I believe?"

"Of course, and also that of three other languages involving two different scripts." Ursula smiled. "It seems that I can learn languages easily, even before I came to Anmar. Now reading and writing the local script, well, I don't know about that until I try."

The door opened and Maralin poked his head in before retreating. "They are in here, Your Grace!"

There was a muttered command and Maralin turned to those within. "Highness, Ladies, if you would join the others in the corridor."

They went out to find Wallesan, Fanis, Hambran and several others standing in a group. All were suitably attired for the occasion, Maralin having changed out of the uniform he wore during their ride. As they joined the party Kalmenar came down the stairs and bowed.

"Your Grace, my apologies. Next time I will ask the assistance of a manservant."

"It is not a problem, My Lord. We are a little early, in any event."

"Wallesan," Eriana asked, "If you would tell us about your hall. In Einnland, my father has his hall, but it is a whole building that is like Robanar's palace, though of course much smaller. Here, it seems you use the word hall to mean a single chamber."

"Of course, Eriana. When we were in Palarand I recall you briefly described your father's house and named it as a hall, though of course here we would call such a building his palace. In the Great Valley, then, the term hall usually refers to a single large chamber as you suggest. In fact, the Great Hall of Joth was originally the main chamber of the old Dukes' residences. It was where they held court, as you told me your father does in his hall. Over the centuries our Great Hall has come to perform a slightly different function, though by custom it is still considered to be part of my mansion.

"Here it is more of a public space where ceremonies, celebrations and other communal functions are performed. I do in fact use it frequently myself when I am holding my own court, or when some matter of importance to the city requires my attention, but do not be surprised to see others come and go. However, I retain the right to decide who makes use of the hall and, now that it has been restored, we will be more careful how it is used." The Duke smiled. "This evening, of course, it will be the setting for a meal of thanks for all the hard-working artisans who have actually restored the hall to what it was before."

A footman came along the corridor and bowed. "Your Grace, we are ready."

"Thank you, Heris." He turned to the others. "Come! Follow me and see what the craftsmen of Joth have wrought."

Wallesan led them along the corridor to the lobby and turned right. In front of him were not one but two pairs of double doors, each pair separated by about four strides from the other. Heris opened one door, and the other of the pair was held open by a footman already inside the hall. Wallesan took the hand of Fanis and the Ducal couple walked through into the hall. Everybody else followed.

Ursula was stunned by the space. The walls rose high and there was a vaulted ceiling of carved, painted and gilded wood. In the three walls she could see, there were familiar tall, narrow windows which came to a point to a point at the top, all filled with stained glass. The sun was now setting, so that only the upper portions of the glass threw colored rays across the chamber, but above her two rows of candelabras had been lit, illuminating the entire space below. Ahead of them, at the far end, was a larger pair of double doors which from their location must have opened out onto the street. These were set under a wide balcony that ran the whole width of the chamber, holding several rows of tiered seating.

"It is a church!"

The last word came out in English and everybody turned round to face her.

"What was that, dear?" Fanis asked.

The answer came from Maralin. "Your Grace, the word church is an English one, and on Earth it describes a building made very like this one is. On Earth a church would be used for the worship of God, who I would think roughly corresponds to the Maker here."

Wallesan was interested. "Do you tell me that you have special buildings set aside just to worship the Maker? Apart from marriages, all religious ceremonies in the Great Valley are conducted outside, as is proper. But I believe that the Earth God is not as our Maker is, but is said to be something more."

"As you say, Your Grace." Maralin added, "I see that the artisans are waiting. If we may discuss Earth religions another time, Your Grace."

"Indeed! And I would say that most of our guests have already arrived, I deem."

Ursula's attention went to the floor and saw for the first time that four rows of tables had been laid, ready for the meal. At either side of the hall the guests stood waiting, most of them craftsmen now wearing their best attire, together with wives in floor-length gowns of many colors and styles.

Beside her, between the pairs of double doors, was a platform about knee height with two chairs on it that could be described as thrones, though not ornately decorated. In front of the platform there were three similar chairs. Wallesan moved to stand in front of the chairs and held up his hands. The noise in the hall, already dying away as the Ducal party appeared, faded completely.

"Craftsmen, artisans, friends. Without your honest labors and experienced eyes, this Great Hall could not have been returned to the splendor I see before me. You have done Joth proud in a difficult time and you shall have my everlasting thanks for it. When I returned, and saw what you had been doing, I resolved that the first use for the restored hall would be a meal of thanks for those who had made it possible, and so here we are.

"I have to admit to you that we had let our Great Hall languish, for various reasons, and it was only because of the invader that we were reminded what we once had. Now that it has been reborn, so to speak, we will treat it with the respect that it is due, and thus prolong the time before we must needs restore it once more. This hall has served both my family and the city of Joth well these many years and I hope that it will long serve us into the future.

"With Fanis and I tonight are several guests of the mansion, who I will name for you. First must needs be Her Highness Princess Eriana of Palarand. Many of you will know the name, one or two may even recognize her, since it was she who led her men on the successful attack of Boldan's Rock. With her tonight is Lord Kalmenar, who serves as her advisor on her river journey. Also attending her are Guardswoman Bennet and Guardswoman Semma from King Robanar's palace, though they have no martial roles tonight, I deem.

"In addition, presently staying at the mansion is Mistress Ursula, a traveler from the distant land of Alberta. Regrettably, she was ill when she arrived in Joth, but she seems to have made a full recovery. She tells me that she is a knowledgable healer in her own lands and some of you may have already seen her in the last few days about the streets of Joth accompanying our own healer Senia.

"One final matter. You will notice, as you sit, that every place has been provided with a new eating tool named a fork. These have recently been introduced to Palarand by Princess Garia and are proving very popular there. I am certain that in time the same will happen here. Some of you may have seen them before but I will briefly explain their use. You hold them vertically in the left hand to steady something while you cut off a portion with the knife in your right hand. Then, with the item still impaled upon the fork, you can bring it directly to your mouth to eat, without worrying about cutting yourself or getting your hands sticky with food. It will take some practice but I know that most of those here tonight will understand that. Forks have other uses too, I am sure you will discover them by experimenting during the evening."

"Now, I have made enough long speeches, and I deem that you are probably as hungry as I. Tonight there will be no order at our table. Saving only the chairs provided for myself, my wife and our guests, you may sit where you will, speak with whom you will. Tonight, all are welcome here."

Wallesan clapped his hands and there was a general movement towards the tables. Naturally there was a certain amount of confusion but the serving staff soon had everyone settled among friends or workmates. To Ursula's surprise, the Ducal couple sat in the middle of one of the center tables, rather than at one end as she had expected. She found herself seated to the right of Eriana, who was facing Wallesan, and thus facing Fanis herself. To her right sat Semma, while Bennet was to Eriana's left.

The Duke smiled. "This evening I entertain four beautiful ladies, I see! This circumstance does not occur often in my court. I do not host meals like this one very often except at the usual festivals, or for special occasions."

Bennet squirmed in her seat. "Your Grace, I am unused to such attention as this. At the palace, my place would be along the walls, or maybe waiting outside the chamber with His Majesty's other guardsmen. Though I thank you for the privilege, I must admit to feeling uncomfortable tonight."

Fanis leaned forward. "Be at ease here tonight, dear. While you may have customary duties elsewhere, in Joth you are a valued guest of my husband, an essential companion to Eriana, and he seeks to reward you for your service. Besides, did you not notice who else is here tonight? We are surrounded by the craftsmen and artisans of Joth, those who have labored long to rebuild the mansion of our family. With the possible exception of Eriana and Lord Kalmenar, almost everyone else in the Hall tonight is of ordinary status, those of Joth who work with their hands and wits to protect and provide for those they serve."

The Duke nodded. "Aye, my dear. Please, relax and enjoy the meal. I notice that you went out riding again today, and a fine spectacle you all make upon your frayen, if I may say so. What do you think of our countryside?"

"Your Grace," Bennet replied, "the countryside is much as I was used to before I entered the King's service, since I grew up in a village not far from the capital. I have enjoyed riding through the lanes and among the fields, for it is such places that are familiar to me. At this time of year, with everything growing strongly and the weather pleasant to ride in, I thank the King for permitting me to ride, that I may enjoy it more."

"Well said," the Duke nodded. "Not everyone may own a frayen, it is true, but I am personally pleased that the fair members of our lands shall at least have the opportunity to enjoy them as you and your companions have done. Such activities have been frowned upon before but Eriana's example, and your own, shows us all that we have nothing to fear."

Fanis added, "Husband, you should know that there is a great clamor in the city for riding attire! Eriana has started something that cannot be stopped, I deem. Of course, the frayen to bear all these new riders, and the saddles and tack to go with them, are in short supply as well. Yet nothing will deter our womenfolk, it seems."

Eriana said, "Not so, Fanis. I deem that some few will regret their choice, and the coin spent on attire, once their bottoms have experienced a saddle for a day or two. It requires some determination before riding becomes comfortable to the body."

"Too true," the Duke agreed. "I remember my own first attempts in the saddle, long ago as that was. Parts of me were sore for a day or two, but the desire to ride conquered even that discomfort. Mayhap our womenfolk will have like determination."

"As you say, Wal." Fanis pulled a face. "I expect that I will mount after a time, but for now I will benefit from seeing the efforts of others. Eriana, have your rides been to your liking?"

"Aye, Fanis, I have no complaints, save that your lands are too flat for my liking!" She held up a hand and smiled. "I jest, of course, but I must admit that I prefer seas and mountains to the level fields of the river valley. Today, though, we did not ride through fields but ventured to Thorn. It is not so far and I sought to pay a visit to Count Sherin, who received us when we passed through before."

"Ah? And how are Sherin and Tiedra? I regret that since we returned to Joth to restore it we have seen little of them." She sighed. "There has just been too much to do! Putting the city back together again, returning all those who resided here, accounting for those lost or dead in the war, rebuilding all... My husband was smart enough to latch onto your party and disappear to Palarand, though it seems he had reason for it."

"Sherin and Tiedra were both well, Fanis, and asked after the conditions in the city. I told them all that I knew and said that the Visund would likely stop there on our way, that the crew might pay their respects to the city and those within, for their kindness when we came through before."

The conversation carried on as the meal progressed. Eventually a point came when Wallesan stood, holding a hand out to prevent everyone else rising at the same time.

"Stay! Enjoy your meal. Fanis and I will circulate the tables, as is sometimes customary, to speak to all those who have worked hard to make this hall more magnificent than before."

The two then rose and began walking around the other tables, stopping frequently to speak to those seated nearby. Ursula carried on as the others did, eating the main dish of something she had seen roasting earlier that day.

"Highness," she said after a pause in the meal, "Bellot says that it is possible some of my riding clothes have been delivered today."

"Is that so? This would be with the alterations that needed to be made the other day?"

"I believe so, Highness. He merely spoke of a package."

"Then," Eriana smiled at her, "we must needs introduce you to your frayen tomorrow, I deem. Hanek has found one for you that is unlikely to cause you trouble. She is a mild-mannered doe and should be suitable for someone who has never ridden before."

Ursula was slightly discomfited by the pressure to get her to ride, but she saw no simple way to slow down the project. "Well, thank you, Highness. Uh, do I not need the other equipment? Boots, helmet and so on?"

Eriana spread her hands. "All are ready for you, so I have been told. Duban's smith has worked hard on your helmet and boots and both shall be ready for you tomorrow morning."

"My boots? Why should they need a smith?"

Eriana's grin was wide. "The boots of all riders customarily have steel toecaps, Ursula, against being trodden on by your beast. I am told they have other uses, should circumstances require."

"Oh, I see. Yes, I didn't think of that. Riding is a complicated subject, isn't it?"

"No more so than sailing a ship, cooking a meal - or attending a sick person, I deem. Something always looks complicated until it has been shown to you."

"I cannot disagree. Tomorrow morning, then?"

The Princess nodded. "Aye, Ursula."

Wallesan and Fanis returned to their seats as the serving staff brought out the next course, which consisted of pastries which looked familiar to Ursula, since she had helped make them. These were savory pastries, with a minced meat and cheese filling which had been softened with a paste of fragrant ground nuts. These were followed by slabs of cheese, for the diner to help themselves from, and wedges of the cakes Ursula had also helped to make. She said as much to Eriana.

"Do you tell me? This is delicious! You have hidden talents, Ursula."

"All I did was add ingredients and stir," she protested. "Senny did all the measuring out of the ingredients and greasing the cake molds."

"Still, there are not many of the crew who could do such a task. See, it is another useful thing to have learned."

The meal reached its conclusion and, having made certain that everyone had finished, the Duke rose. This of course caused everyone else to rise but what happened next surprised Ursula. The Duke and Duchess, followed by their guests, moved along the tables until they stood in front of the platform with the throne-like chairs. Wallesan nodded to a servant and more streamed through the double doors, which was apparently a signal for all the other diners to make their way to the other walls.

The servants began stripping everything from the tables and taking the items out through the double doors. Once the tables were bare, the chairs were moved to the side walls and the tables were efficiently dismantled and collapsed, to be stacked at the far end. In moments, what had been a dining room had been transformed into a ballroom.

"Please be seated," Wallesan said as the hall quietened. "Later there will be music but for now I deem we should allow our meals to settle a while. If you would talk, then do so. If you would approach us, then I am sure we will listen attentively. This is your evening, pleased feel relaxed in this magnificent hall, made so by your own efforts."

Instantly there was a buzz and some confusion as various groups of friends and acquaintances found each other and struck up conversations. In front of Ursula, some more chairs had been brought so that all their group could be seated together. The 'thrones' had been pointedly left alone, the Duke and Duchess preferring to be seated at the same level as their people for this occasion.

On a low platform in a far corner, Ursula noticed five men begin setting up what were obviously musical instruments, and her interest was roused. There were two drums and some things that looked as if they might be conical bells, all being set up in front of what appeared to be the percussionist. There was a mandolin-like instrument being unwrapped by another man, a third had a flute, another had a kind of horn and the last had a bowed instrument that was apparently played in the fashion of a violin, although it looked nothing like one.

Stands to reason. They would have developed their own instruments here, over the centuries. Still, I have to wonder...

The men began tuning their instruments but the sound was lost in the general conversation. One of the men spoke to a servant, who went away and returned with a tray bearing five tankards.

I see nothing changes! Every group of musicians since time began has been in need of a little lubrication!

One of the artisans came and spoke to Wallesan, and he and Fanis rose to go and talk to a group gathered against the wall.

"Ursula?"

"Hmm? Oh, Highness? I am sorry, did you ask me something?"

"I did. I see you have noticed the music makers here. I should warn you that their music may not be kind to your ears. I did not like the court music of Palarand when I was first there, they do not make it as we do in Einnland. I know that both Garia and Maralin suffer the same way as well, so be warned."

"Oh? I see. Yes, of course it would be different. Thank you for the warning, Highness."

Eriana turned, her gaze intent. She kept her voice low to avoid getting the attention of Kalmenar, who sat on her other side. "Look. I will say this to you while the Duke and Duchess are away. You must needs make your own way in this strange land, and to do that you must take advantage of every opportunity you can. Learn what you can, when you can. Wallesan and Fanis are unlikely to do you harm while you are with them but, until you know this place better, you must needs keep your wits about you."

Ursula's voice was low. "You distrust them, don't you?"

The response was equally low. "Distrust is perhaps too strong a word. They hold secrets, as any ruler must. In this case, they know more about you than they are willing to tell anyone else. If they may not tell even me, I wonder what it is they might hide."

Ursula nodded. "It is good advice, Highness. I still wonder about this strange world I have found myself in."

"As do I." Her expression was sharp. "But this is not an appropriate subject for table, not now. Tell me, what of your journeys around the city? How different are the methods of healing from those of your own lands? I know that there are matters we would handle differently in Einnland."

"Ah. Well, most of it is much the same, Highness, as you might expect." Ursula thought. "I don't know how much I can explain to you, though." She smiled. "As you just said, medicine is a complicated subject. I am impressed by the range of herbs they use here and how effective they are, but of course I don't know any of them myself and I guess that it will take me some years to become familiar with them all. Right now, for example, I couldn't hope to prescribe something for a patient, even if I knew what was wrong with them."

"As you say. I would think, if I were someone from a Valley farm and I was taken on board the Visund, that it would take some time to learn the ways of the ship, to name all the different parts, and to know how to read the winds and currents. I have great respect for your knowledge, Ursula, and I know that it will take you time to learn the local ways."

Ursula nodded. "Unfortunately, yes. It is time I am prepared to take, though, since that is what I appear to have been sent here to do."

Eriana gazed at her so long that Ursula wondered what she might have said. Finally, the Princess shook her head in frustration.

"Not now, I deem. There is much I would say to you and much I would ask, but in suitable privacy. If it becomes possible, should you agree?"

Ursula puzzled through what she had been asked and nodded hesitantly. "That might be a good idea, Highness. I'm sure we will get an opportunity -"

Her voice was cut off by a drum roll and a bash on one of the conical bells. The room quietened and people's attention turned to the musicians.

"Your Grace, by your leave?"

"Aye, you have it. A tune to rouse our pulses gently first, if you would, and then we may think about a dance or two."

"As you command, Your Grace."

The resulting noise shocked Ursula so much that her hands were halfway to her ears before she realized what was happening. She lowered them in embarrassment but still winced at the clash of notes from the five players.

"Hah! I told you," Eriana muttered in her ear. "If my men were here those five would fear for their lives. It is not what those of Einnland would name music."

"It's not what I would call music either," Ursula replied through gritted teeth. "Though I think I understand what it is they are doing. The scales -" She turned to Eriana. "Do you know anything about music?"

Eriana's expression was pained. "I know what is music and what is not, and this is not music! No, Ursula, I have no knowledge of such arts, if arts they be. Do you tell me that you do have such knowledge?"

Ursula nodded reluctantly. "I do, Highness. In... my home city... I learned to play several instruments as a child, some of which look slightly similar to those over there. I was good, maybe, but not good enough to make it a career, and anyway I preferred to study medicine - I mean the healing arts. Do you remember me telling the Duke that I traveled through several countries on my way to Alberta?" Eriana nodded. "In two of them, I actually played in a band in some of the evening clubs they have there."

"Clubs? Oh, aye, you explained, I remember now. A club is a kind of tavern, then, with music and singing?"

"That's right, Highness, so -"

But the noise had become too loud and too uncomfortable. She shook her head and said, "Later."

The music was apparently acceptable to the other guests, who nodded and beat time as the strange melody clattered along. The scale sounded completely alien to Ursula's ears, with half-notes appearing in the wrong place and some of the notes sounding distinctly flat. The five players appeared to be playing five different tunes, but she could discern an underlying theme which surfaced every now and then. Finally, the tune came to a conclusion and the guests applauded by clapping, for which Ursula was thankful.

At least they show a reasonable method of appreciation. It could have been much stranger. Jazz hands, anyone?

I must remember that this is still an alien society, though. They have developed their own customs and, although there is much that seems faintly familiar, I must be careful not to assume too much.

Fanis returned and took a seat the other side of Ursula, Semma moving to give her room.

"I would guess that you do not know any of our dances, Ursula. How could you? I do not even know if you do anything like this on Earth."

"Since I have not yet seen anyone dance, Your Grace, I could not answer that. Of course there are many forms of dance on Earth, but probably none that would work here."

Maralin overheard and came to join the conversation. "Your Grace, the kind of dancing I saw in Palarand is similar to some of the country dancing we did back home. However, those are mostly based on formal dances of previous centuries. Some of those are court dances, others are what you might find on a farm or in a village." He gave a small smile. "I do not think that Anmar is ready for the kind of dancing we do on Earth these days," with a nod to Ursula, "at least in the West. I can describe them for you, but it would best be done in private."

"Ah? Now you have made me curious, Maralin! But Ursula will be able to see what we do, and if she decides that she would be interested in our dances, mayhap we can arrange some tuition for her."

"If I can find the time, Your Grace," Ursula responded with a grimace. "Between healing the sick, learning to ride, and now learning to read and write as well, I'm not sure that I will have the energy for dancing, let alone the time."

"As you say!" Fanis smiled. "A woman's work is never done, they say."

"We have that one on Earth as well, Your Grace, and I can easily believe it."

Four rows of alternate men and women formed up in the center of the hall, all facing the Duke, who had now returned to join Fanis. The 'drummer' gave two taps on a drum and then the band started again... this tune didn't seem so bad, although it was still off-key as far as Ursula was concerned. The dancers bowed, and then followed a complicated route through the assembled ranks, switching places and twirling as they did so.

The dance went to its conclusion and was followed by another, where the dancers stood in groups of four and moved round, the men moving one way and the women the other. A third dance followed and then there was a natural break, when servants brought round goblets of wine, beer or fruit juices for everyone.

A man and woman approached their group. Ursula recognized Tavia, the woman who had been her guide when they had gone to the market, and assumed the man was her husband.

The man bowed. "Your Grace, Your Grace, Your Highness, Ladies. You have my thanks for this excellent meal. Our craftsmen have asked me to convey their appreciation for your kind thoughts."

Wallesan leaned back. "It was the least I could do, Panesar. You and your associates, aye, and in many cases your sons too, have labored long over this hall in the last few months. If I may introduce Her Highness Princess Eriana of Palarand, Eriana, this is Alderman Panesar, one of Joth's finest decorators. He is responsible for much of the repainting and almost all the gold you see above, though of course he did not supply the leaf himself. You have of course already met Tavia, who managed to get herself involved in that small excitement with Ursula."

Eriana nodded. "Aye, I recognized Mistress Tavia. Alderman, I cannot fault you on your work here, the craftsmanship is amazing."

"Why, thank you, Your Highness! I am sure you must be used to such fine surroundings, I understand that the palace of King Robanar is a wonder to see. I am sure that my own efforts pale by comparison." His brow furrowed. "But, If I may ask, Highness, your accent is strange and I did not think the King had a daughter of that name."

"You wish the truth, Alderman? I ran away from a difficult father and an unsuitable betrothal and found myself in Palarand, where the King has offered me and my men sanctuary. I come from a distant land, out beyond the Palumaks and far to the south of the Great Valley, named Einnland. As the daughter of a King, Robanar permits me to keep my title and rank."

"Oh, I see! It is well known that King Robanar is thought a wise man and his generosity to you proves it. If I may ask, what is it you do here in Joth?"

Eriana waved a hand. "It is no secret, Alderman. We are on a voyage along the Sirrel, to visit the numerous countries along the way and to learn of the new lands that I and my men now reside in. As we were traveling this way, we provided transport for your Duke, returning home after his visit for Princess Garia's wedding."

"Ah, the wedding, of course! In the city we have already heard several accounts from some who happened to be in Palarand when it happened."

The conversation turned to the wedding and Tavia came to stand by Ursula, having already learned many details from Semma on the day when the three went to the market place.

Ursula asked, "Can I ask how your son is, Mistress?"

"His leg is much improved, Mistress Ursula. I am sure that he will be up and back at work within a week or two."

"He injured himself in here? I did not realize that children that young would be working."

Panesar broke off his conversation and turned to Ursula. "Why of course, Mistress! What else would a young man of that age be doing? Very few can afford to have their children idle at home while their parents toil... begging your pardon, Your Grace."

Wallesan in turn waved a hand. "I understand what you mean, Panesar. It is often only the nobility and a few rich merchants who can afford to keep their sons at home. However, in the lands of Mistress Ursula's birth, I am told it is customary for all children to be taught at school from the ages of five until sixteen, and often beyond that should the need require."

"Five to sixteen?" Panesar turned to Ursula. "Mistress, what shall they learn, all those years?"

Ursula sought a way to explain without raising too many questions. "We live much more complicated lives than you do here, Sir. In order to be able to use everything that we need to, we all have to learn to read, to write and to do math. We are also told of other countries, learn about our world and instructed how to do many of the tasks our citizens will do when they are adults."

"But, still, sixteen? Your Grace, do you know ought of this?"

Wallesan nodded. "A little, Panesar. The winds of change are blowing from Palarand and it will soon raise a dust in Joth, among other countries. Do not concern yourself now, I will arrange to have a meeting of those concerned one day soon, probably in here, where I will explain what the future might hold for Joth. Be assured, it will not be much like the past of Joth! All I will say now is that, as soon as we may find room enough for schools for all, and teachers to teach them, that all our sons and daughters shall be taught to read, to write and to number. That will be the least that I must needs do for my people."

Panesar was still puzzled. "But what will they need to do all that for, Your Grace? I can understand that a merchant's son might need to read, write and number, but... farmers? Fishermen?"

"It is a long story, Panesar. Leave it for now, if you would. Just be assured that you should not lose out by what is to come, but that the lives of you and all your family shall become much richer as a result."

The decorator looked unconvinced. "If you say so, Your Grace."

The music started up again and the Alderman and his wife excused themselves. Wallesan looked thoughtful.

"This might prove harder than I thought. I knew there would be some resistance, but explaining matters could be difficult."

Maralin suggested, "Your Grace, what about that wagonload of gifts from Robanar? Bring them all in here and let everybody see them. That should give them an idea about what is to happen. ...A kind of exhibition, if you would. We can explain things like paper, printing, the steam engine, the semaphore, they will be able to get an idea of what might be possible in future."

The Duke looked thoughtful. "An... exhibition? Is this a common Earth custom?"

"Not common, no, Your Grace, but there are enough that most people are familiar with how they work. For what we have, I would suggest something like a table with each item on it, with somebody standing nearby who can explain how it works - or what it is - to anyone who asks." He frowned. "Hmm. The printing press could be awkward to demonstrate and the steam engine definitely so! I would not want to run that in here, Your Grace, since the smoke would end up all over your beautiful new decorations." He shrugged. "There are ways we could do this, Your Grace, if necessary."

Wallesan grunted. "This is part of the future, I deem? Then we must needs accustom ourselves, and our people, to the idea of... exhibitions. Speak with Bellot, bring me a plan."

"As you command, Your Grace."

Eriana leaned in towards the Duke as the conversation paused. "Wallesan, Ursula has told us that she may be familiar with musical instruments, ah, the instruments of Earth, of course."

"Is she now?" He turned his attention to her. "And is this something you might desire to do in the future, my dear?"

Ursula silently cursed Eriana for putting her on the spot. I wish I had never said anything now!

She stammered, "Your Grace, I was taught several different instruments when I was a child, that is all. My mother was a pianist and she made sure that I learned the basics."

Wallesan ignored the unknown word pianist and thought correctly that it referenced some kind of Earth instrument.

"If you desire to explore some of our local musical instruments in the future, my dear, then I will arrange to have some brought for your inspection. However, I can see by your face that you would rather Eriana had not brought attention to it, we would not force you to do anything you did not want to."

Her face reddened. "Your Grace, thank you for understanding. Maybe some time in the future, I am too busy right now to spend much time investigating yet another new subject. But I will not forget your offer."

"Indeed, my dear."

The tune screeched to a halt and another began, this one apparently popular, though even Maralin winced when the musicians struck up. Most of those attending immediately stood and formed ranks within the centre of the hall.

Wallesan stood as well. "Come, my dear," he said to Fanis. "We should join the Dance of Summer. Kalmenar, Bennet, Semma, you may come as well." He looked at the others. "I regret that you do not know one of our favorite tunes, mayhap by next year - or should there be another dance, this year, of course - we will have had time to teach it to you."

The others stood and joined those in the middle as the movements began. Those left behind looked at one another.

"Did you know anything about this?" Ursula asked Maralin.

"Not me! I haven't been here long enough to have taken part in something like this before. Highness? What about you?"

Eriana said, "Of course, just as I was made to learn the Valley tongue, I was taught several of the formal dances that they practise here. In hindsight those onerous tasks have served me well, though I cursed enough when I was doing them! This dance I do not know, though. I have, after all, been in the Great Valley a shorter time than you, Maralin."

"Oh, of course you have, Highness. Did they do nothing like this at home or at the palace, then?"

Eriana shrugged. "A little of this and that, but mostly it was talk, talk, talk. As is true for any daughter of a King, my task was simply to ornament the occasion. I was not expected to contribute much." Her teeth showed. "Besides, most of my father's cronies knew better than to attempt false flattery. I would have flattened them! By the time I came to Palarand, my reputation had preceded me and only Lord Gilbanar invited me to dance more than once."

"A shame, Highness," Ursula murmured.

"It was better that way," Eriana sniffed. "Until Garia taught me the ways of the mind, I would not have been a pleasant dance companion." She waved at the complex-looking dance moves on the floor. "Doing that would just have irritated me and I would not have been pleasant company."

* * *

At the end of the dance the party made their way up the stairs to their various chambers. At the top of the stairs stood Mamoot and Ursula frowned at his expression.

"Is something wrong, Mamoot?"

He rubbed his stomach, but shook his head. "I am sure it is nothing, Mistress. Something I ate, most likely." He paused, then added, "If it is no better in the morning, Mistress, could I ask you for advice?"

"Well, surely," she replied. "I might be able to tell you what is wrong, but you will probably have to wait until Healer Senia arrives here after breakfast before you can be given any potions."

Mamoot nodded. "I understand, Mistress. I bid you all good-night."

"Good night, Mamoot."