Dessert

In which Jean-Michel and Lady Osada have dessert with Lord Swiftwing & his guests, and discuss Dragons' collections.

As the Vizier exits, it is Fraü Ehrenburg's turn to watch thoughtfully.  She finally turns back to Lord Swiftwing and looks him in the eye.  "As Your Grace said a while ago, one meets the most interesting people on an airship."

She smiles slowly, then turns her gaze to Fiona.  "Fraülein, I could not help but notice that your friend Lady de Forrest seemed startled, and perhaps worried, when she saw the Sidhe Lord sitting at that far table.  Is there a problem, do you think?  Smoothing over problems between the Fae happen to fall within my duties..."  She glances at Lord Swiftwing again, arching an eyebrow.  The Dragonlord merely nods his approval.

Fiona toys with her wine glass as she watches the departing Constance and the exit of the Vizier.  "What an interesting observation, Fraülein Ehrenberg.  Lady de Forrest certainly mentioned no problem among the Fae, but the situation may bear watching.  He certainly bears watching," casting a furtive but admiring gaze toward Lord Árdghal as he exits.

Lord Swiftwing turns back to Fiona and smiles.  "Fraülein, I have enjoyed your company during dinner.  If you wish to attend the 'magic' show, by all means feel free to do so.  However..."  the Dragonlord continues, "you may find that my dessert guests will hold your interest as well."

Turning once more to her host, Fiona says brightly, "Dessert guests?  Good sir, you are astonishing in your social resources!  Perhaps I can see Markus another time, if you would not be overburdened by my presence."

Lord Swiftwing nods.  "You are certainly welcome to stay if you wish.  In any event, I would welcome your assistance in a minor business matter which I believe you may be qualified to undertake.  It involves certain antiquities of a sort that would be considered...   rare and unusual and which have recently been brought to my attention.  They are somewhat fragile and will need special shipping arrangements back to Drakenherrenhaus."

The Dragonlord waves a hand as if dismissing the very notion of such matters.  "That certainly is not something that I should be bringing up at the moment, however.  Please forgive my tactless remarks.  Perhaps after dessert we could retire to the observation deck.  As it is after dark, there should be relatively few passengers there, and we could discuss this matter in private."

Fiona keeps her facial expression carefully neutral, despite the nearly overwhelming curiosity racing through her thoughts.  "I would be honored indeed, my Lord, to have dessert at your table.  A walk to the observation deck later would give me a chance to stretch my legs -- and let my head clear!  You do serve a potent vintage, Lord Swiftwing."
 

The Dragon Lady

Jean-Michel and Lady Osada step up to Lord Swiftwing’s table and, at an appropriate moment, Jean-Michel bows.  “Bonsoir, Votre Grâce.  Je m’apelle Jean-Michel du Pont-de-la-Vierge.  Permettez-moi de vous présenter Madame Kuromizu Osada.”  He hopes he does not appear too nervous.  Truthfully, given the circumstances his apprehension is quite understandable, as it is not every day that one introduces oneself to a nigh mythical being.

As Jean-Michel and his female companion approach the table, the dragonlord unfolds out of his seat.  He leans over to speak quietly to Fiona, "Fraulein, I hope your french is better than mine," hew rumbles, then assumes the role of the benevolent host.

"Herr du Ponte-de-la-Vierge,  Lady Osada, thank you for commink to my table," he begins in execrable french.  "As ve haf not yet been properly introduced, I am Lord Dominitus Sviftving.  My dinner companion is der Fraulein Fiona Rohling.  Und zis is Fraü Ehrenburg, Chief Sorcerous Security Officer aboard the Parsifal.  Plise join us," he indicates several empty chairs and motions for one of the waiters to attend.  He then offers Jean-Michel a wine list.  "Herr du Ponte-de-la-Vierge, vould you be zo kind as to choose an after dinner vine?"

Those who are even moderately observant (i.e. have not been permanently blinded) note that although he fulfills the role of host admirably, Lord Swifting's interest is taken primarily by the Lady Osada.

Jean-Michel fervently hopes Lady Osada will have a pleasant time then turns his attention to the wine list.  Torn between the Merlot and the Riesling, he opts for the latter.  After all, tomorrow they shall be in Bayern so he had best become accustomed to their food and drink!  Having informed the waiter of his selection, Jean-Michel nods to Fraü Ehrenburg, then turns to Fiona and shifts to English.

“Good evening, Fraülein.  I had not expected to see you so soon, however it is a pleasant surprise.  Please accept my compliments on your gown, it suits you marvelously.”

The Dragonlord smiles and nods vaguely with a somewhat blank expression on his face - its pretty clear that while his french is semi-incomprehensible, his english is well nigh nonexistent.

Fiona easily returns Jean-Michel's pleasantry but has the grace to blush just a little.  "Thank you, sir.  Quite a compliment, especially from one who has such exquisite taste.  I did suspect to see you at dinner, and I am pleased to have this opportunity to chat again.  I'm afraid Lady Constance has already left us to see Markus' show.  A pity! I'm sure she would have loved to see you again!"

In explanation to Lord Swiftwing, "You see, Jean-Michel spent some time at tea this afternoon with Lady Constance and myself.  He had some very interesting stories to share of the Americas."

A lengthy pause follows as Jean-Michel wonders if he should indeed change professions and become a dance-hall entertainer.  After inquiring around the table to ascertain whether or not French is understood by all present, he begins to relate The Tale of Prince Charming, adjusting it where necessary so that all may follow the story.  So as not to be distracted (or intimidated!) by Lord Swiftwing’s presence he attempts to focus on the story rather than the Dragon with a reasonable degree of success.  Fraü Ehrenburg, who speaks excellent French and decent English, graciously assists Jean-Michel by translating the more difficult parts of the story in German for Lord Swiftwing's and Fiona's benefit.

Fiona listens to the tale with enjoyment while awaiting dessert, while surreptitiously eyeing Lady Osada to see if she appears either less than attentive to the tale, or if it is new to her.

The Nipponese Dragon listens to Jean-Michel's story with great attention, hiding occasional giggles politely behind a dainty hand.  Fraü Ehrenburg, for her part, shows perfect courtesy but is watching everyone with speculative eyes.  Fiona and Jean-Michel are as much under observation as the two Dragons.

While the story unfolds, a steward discretely brings a sumptuous dessert tray for the guests to choose from, as well as all the implements to make and serve coffee, teas of various flavours, and cocoa right at the table.  The steward points out the various delights on display:

Cream tangerine
Montelimar
Ginger sling with pineapple heart
Coffee dessert (whipped cream cake soaked with coffee liquor)
Cool cherry cream
Apple tart
Coconut fudge
Savoy Truffle

“…As matters turned out it was a most curious meeting which led to other interesting events. I see, however, that it grows late so further portions of my tale must wait for another time.”  Jean-Michel pauses briefly as he reaches the story’s conclusion and wonders why he feels slightly worn out, however he supposes that is to be expected after having told so many stories in one day.   Now, with the story done, if he maneuvers properly he might be able to elicit some useful information from Miss Rohling.  After all, two can play that ‘Entertain-the-Dragon’ distraction game!

“Besides”, he adds, “It would be ill-mannered of me to dominate the entire evening.  Fraülein Rohling, you mentioned earlier that you are a citizen of Bayern.  Lady Osada wishes to learn more of New Europa and I freely confess there is much I must learn as well.  Would you do her Ladyship the kindness of expounding upon your life in Bayern?”

"It would be my pleasure, my dear sir!"  Fiona replies to Jean-Michel.  "Most of my time in Bayern was either spent in schools, University, or the shoppe, but I will do my best to show the City to best advantage."  Fiona will then weave an overview, with off-the-wall details about the University professors, neighboring shop keepers, inocuous gossip about the Court, and interesting customers (not mentioned by name) and in general those items in which they were interested.  She emphasizes the bustle about the City and the mass of machines being invented -- and tested -- in Bayern ... "and I hope, Lady Osada, that you will visit us and I promise to provide you with a personal tour."

Lady Osada listens to Fiona's descriptions with the same intent attention she has been giving Jean-Michel's tales.  She seems very interested by the description of Ye Olde Irish Rose Curios & Antiquities, the shop Fiona's family owns.  With a demure, almost shy smile, she glances around at the company.

"Fraülein, I would be most enthralled to hear more about the marvels you find and bring home from your travels.  Forgive this one's forwardness, but as you know, all Dragons are collectors.  Although the Empire of the Rising Sun is full of treasures of art, jewelry, lacquers, potteries, paintings, poetry and many others, I have not yet managed to decide what I will collect.  Every time this foolish one decides on a particular collection, something more attractive seems to appear."

She glances at Lord Swiftwing with a bit of embarrassment, and hides for a moment behind a silk fan she snaps open.  "Ancient one, you must forgive this ignorant one's inexperience," she murmurs.  Then she smiles again with her more customary mischievousness.  "What could one collect to tie memories of all the wonderful places I have heard of?  A collection of china vases, for example, would not help me remember Monsieur du Pont-de-la-Vierge's wonderful stories."

Fraü Ehrenburg has been listening with a small smile of her own.  As it widens, she hides it behind her coffee cup.  "Well, many of our passengers seem to choose to collect silverware and towels," sho comments dryly.

Jean-Michel silently gives thanks that he need not concern himself over such minor points aboard the Nuage then mulls over Lady Osada’s dilemma.  “What of maps?” he suggests.  “Modern maps are, regrettably, not always aesthetically pleasing however many older maps are highly decorated, sometimes in the most fanciful and eccentric manner; in this fashion they make amends for their lack of accuracy.  An interesting study is to peruse maps which cover the same territory over a span of time, thereby providing an indication of how the area has been explored and expanded upon.

“Another consideration is that maps are made in a wide variety of scales, from continents to city blocks and virtually everything in between.  So, when you wish to remember Prince Charming, you may gaze at a map of the North American continent and trace the route thereupon.  If your desire is to recall the bakery where Fraülein Rohling was first introduced to the absent-minded professor, then all you need do is look upon a map of Münich and a smile shall certainly attend you.”

A thought occurs to him and he quickly adds, “Please accept my apologies if I am being too forward in my suggestion.”  He looks at Lady Osada then glances at Lord Swiftwing to determine his reaction and promptly wishes he hadn’t.  Ah, those yellow cat-eyes…  ‘Settle down, Jean-Michel, you are the only one here who is being uncivilized about it.  This is New Europa, not the Americas, so be a man and handle the situation accordingly.’  He rallies and nods politely at the Dragon Lord.

Fiona regards Jean-Michel with an appraising look.  "Maps, indeed!" she says, glancing to Lady Osada.  "Most of the very valuable and old maps I run across do not lack for buyers in my establishment.  A good collection could be invaluable to a connoisseur -- or a treasure hunter, for that matter."

Jean-Michel smiles at a memory from his younger days.  “Indeed!  The trick is to know which are the real maps and which the fakes, a knack which I am quite lacking in.  It is my humble opinion that more money has been made from the sale of fraudulent treasure maps than has been recovered from the finding of lost treasure.  However, if one wishes to take the risk and can afford the price, they are certainly entertaining.  Besides, there are very few who do not dream of that once-in-a-lifetime discovery of hidden treasure; they imagine before them a mountain of gold, or skeins of perfectly round pearls, maybe chests laden with scintillating jewels, perchance a sword of ancient name, possibly even a relic from a civilization long past.  It is a powerful attraction, true enough, and I doubt not that it shall remain so for quite some time to come.

“But I fear I digress from the subject.  Perhaps drawings, or paintings, or travel books would serve you as well, Lady?”

A look of confusion briefly passes over Lady Osada's features.  So many possible collections to choose from!  After a longish pause, in which Lord Swiftwing looks deeply into his dessert wine, he comments - "It would not be impossible for you to vary your collection from time to time.  One does not necessarily need to collect only one thing, or even one type of thing.  So long as the object aids you in holding onto that which you choose to remember, what matter if it is the same or different in nature as the previous object?  I have known others who varied their collections from one waking to the next, depending on their tastes of the moment.  One, I recall - an interesting fellow who lived in the Alps around the 15^th century - actually collected collections!"

Jean-Michel wonders if Lord Swiftwing’s knowledge stems from personal acquaintance or if it is anecdotal in nature.  He recalls reading that Dragons may live to extraordinary ages so if he did indeed know the other Dragon then, let us see, the current year being 1872, and the 15^th century actually being the 1400’s then that would have been approximately four centuries ago…  He sits very still as the full realization of how much time has elapsed sinks in.  Hmm, best to leave those sort of thoughts for later!

“Well, Lady Osada, as Lord Swiftwing is the authority on these matters then that difficulty seems to have been resolved and you may pick and choose as you see fit.  Mademoiselle Rohling, would you happen to have any maps in your establishment that you may recommend to Madame?   Perhaps one of the Northern Americas?”

"Hardly an expert Monsewer" replies Lord Swiftwing, still in execrable French, "merely a practitioner."  Turning to the Lady Osada, he continues, "Forgive an elder for preaching - I merely sought to share an am...  am..." the Dragonlord searches for the correct word, finishing lamely "... a funny story."

Baffled, Jean-Michel attempts to sort through the confusion; Lord Swiftwing is behaving in a remarkably human fashion for a Dragon Lord, not at all what he had anticipated.  He smiles inwardly at the irony of the situation; after all, he knows all too well that one cannot believe everything one reads!  It appears he can rely little on his book-knowledge and only slightly more on Grandmother’s stories (after all, she was a young girl when those events transpired).  Bien, this is not the first time he has navigated an unknown area without the benefit of map or compass and this situation is certainly much less dangerous!

Lord Swiftwing wields power, of that Jean-Michel is certain, but what he finds striking is that he would admit to an error publicly; he is so self-confident and assured of his power that, unlike a number of other Captains who Jean-Michel has met, he feels no need to bluster or threaten or pretend that no error was made.  Certainly he can learn much from the Dragon Lord and he hopes there shall be time and opportunity to do so, especially since he now finds himself beginning to like the creature…that is, him.

He addresses Lord Swiftwing again, however this time there is less awe and more true respect in his tone.  “It is I who should beg your forgiveness, Your Grace; I am as yet unaccustomed to the New Europan style of doing things and I am afraid the humour in your enlightening vignette was lost upon me.

“Mademoiselle Rohling, it occurs to me that I should have considered the propriety of discussing business over dinner before inquiring as to the maps and likewise offer my apologies.”

The Dragonlord responds to Jean-Michel's comments with something akin to embarrassment.  "It's my French," he thinks to himself, "I always hated learning languages.  Too malleable - go to sleep for a hundred years and everything's changed!"

Lord Siwftwing subsides and determines to keep his mouth shut and let other people talk until he can get back into the company of people who speak properly.  With the exception of the Lady Osada there really doesn't seem to be anyone at the table worth making a fool of himself for anyway.

Toying with her wine glass, Fiona avoids becoming entangled in the conversation until the Mutual Embarrassment Society has finished apologizing to each other.  When there is a suitable pause, Fiona replies to Jean-Michel's question regarding North American maps.  "I'm afraid I don't see too many maps of the Americas, Monsieur, but perhaps at the University I might be able to obtain some for Lady Osada -- or perhaps engage a cartographer to make a frameable copy, if it is the information which is desired, and not the antiquity."

Jean-Michel points out, “As to the dearth of New World maps from times long past there is a very good reason: The Americas have been colonized for rather less than four centuries, ergo there are far fewer maps which could compare in age with those of New Europa.  If the appearance of antiquity is acceptable, however, then a competent cartographer could surely create one of the Americas or virtually anywhere else for that matter.”  He glances at Lady Osada, as if assessing her reaction before continuing.  “To avoid any unfortunate misunderstandings an honest cartographer would naturally mark the map in such a fashion as to prevent it from being presented as a genuine antique at some future point should it happen to go astray.

“I imagine, Fraülein Rohling, that you have had similar experiences in your travels, non?  Where you have been presented with a reproduction that the owner believes is the genuine article?”

"From time to time I have indeed been presented with forgeries, but it is rarely the collector who truly believes these things.  Far more often the fake is offered by an unscrupulous dealer, hoping I won't notice.  Fortunately, most fakes have the wrong feel ..."  Fiona stops short, aware that she has perhaps said too much, and covers the abrupt ending with a sip of coffee.

Jean-Michel nods knowingly.  “That has been my experience as well.  I recall in particular an incident that occurred while we were in the Bear Flag Republic in which a fellow attempted to pay for his passage with counterfeit United States money.  As the relationship between Orléans and the United States is certainly none of the best, it seems he expected us to be ignorant enough of their currency to be able to pass off bad money as good.  He was fully aware that he was attempting to pay with counterfeits because when my First Officer broached the subject of United States money the fellow became a trifle nervous, then overly belligerent.  And this was before any mention had been made of counterfeiting!

“To make short a longish, rather unpleasant story the fellow literally ran away, leaving the bad money behind, so we promptly informed the local authorities and handed over the counterfeit currency.  I do not know whether they caught up with him or not however I completely agree with you, there was certainly a wrong feel, both to the money as well as the situation. The printing and the paper were equally faulty, besides which the fellow’s attitude was not what one would expect of an honest man.  I should imagine you have had dealings with that sort before, non?  When in the wrong, and knowing he is in the wrong, he nevertheless persists in his story and, in fact, holds you at fault for any and all wrongdoing or error.  He holds to this position in the face of all logic and reason while civilized manners are generally cast by the wayside.  I believe Shakespeare summed the matter up quite nicely when he wrote, ‘He doth protesteth too much’.  Or, as we say in Orléans, ‘Qui s’excuse s’accuse’.”

To Fiona’s relief, he seems to be unaware of that her comment could have been interpreted in another manner.

Grateful for the coverup, and wondering whether or not it was intentional, Fiona nods her agreement.  "Yes, I have frequently had to just walk away from a potential transaction after seeing such counterfeits.  Sometimes it can be done gracefully, but when the seller gets too belligerent ..." She shakes her head slightly, recalling unfortunate situations.  "Ah, but then that is business, I suppose.  La!  The company tonight is much too gay to give those unpleasantries much thought.  My apologies, ladies and gentlemen."

“None are necessary,” Jean-Michel insists, “For you are absolutely correct.  Why discuss business when there are other, more agreeable pastimes available?  The meal was exquisite, dessert has been positively ambrosial, and as I recall the ship’s schedule shows there shall be a dance beginning shortly in this very room.  Should any of you lovely ladies like to attend, I shall consider it an honour and delight to escort you.”  His gaze sweeps across Lady Osada, Mademoiselle Rohling, and even Fraü Ehrenburg (although to be perfectly honest he seems a trifle less enthusiastic with the latter).

Fiona beams her pleasure at the prospect of dancing.  Very rarely on her trips does she get the opportunity, particularly with such dashing company.  "I would be delighted, monsieur!"  Turning to their host, she says meaningfully, "Will you attend the dance as well, Lord Swiftwing?"

"Ja, das ist gutt," replies the Dragonlord, unfolding from his chair to his full seven plus feet in height.

Jean-Michel finds himself obliged to lean back rather a bit to take in the sight.  ‘Sacrebleu, il est très grand!’ he thinks in amazement, then wonders what to do next.  Is this a sign that dessert is over and they are dismissed?  Is it some sort of Dragon ritual?  Or is he simply stretching his legs and will be retaking his seat in a moment?  He looks around and attempts to determine what is expected of them, hoping that the others’ reactions may provide a clue.

In Bayernese German, Lord Swiftwing explains: "If I am to go dancing, I simply must change into attire more appropriate for the occasion. Fraülein Rohling, I would consider it an honor, were you to reserve a space on your dance card for me.  Fraü Eherenberg, I hope you will also do me the honor."  the Dragonlord turns his gaze towards the Lady Osada. In really bad French - again:  "And Lady, I wish to spot you there in addition."

Turning to the table as a whole. In German:  "Please feel free to linger over dessert if you choose.  Thank you for your company and your conversation."

Turning to Jean-Michel, in bad French: "Good evening, sir.  Thank you for coming.  Maybe we can talk again later?"

Jean-Michel quickly takes to his feet and with a deep bow replies, “I look forward to it, Your Grace.”  As none of the ladies appear to be leaving the table despite the Dragon Lord’s departure he sits down again.  “I regret I did not catch the first portion of Lord Swiftwing’s speech….”  The ladies promptly translate the Dragon's words from German.

Fraü Ehrenburg smiles at the interplay between Jean-Michel and the Dragon.  She nods graciously to the Dragonlord as he departs, then turns back to the remaining guests.  "For a short while, this room while be a veritable shambles as the personnel moves the tables away to clear the dance floor," she explains.  She emphasises her words with a gesture towards the stewards hurriedly clearing dishes from any unoccupied tables.

"I think Lord Swiftwing is right," she continues, "this is a good time to change into clothes appropriate for dancing, at least for myself."  She indicates her uniform with a self-mocking smile.  "I will be delighted to meet you again in half an hour.  Lady, fraülein, sir, until then."  She rises and leaves the table.
 

To Be Continued...