Thin tendrils of frost curled then bloomed over the surface of Mrs. York's cup, as she gripped it tightly.  The GALL of this elf-woman! To even SUGGEST that she and her Thomas were the 'disruption!'

[i][b]'Unobtrusive behavior'[/b][/i] indeed!

She glanced a look at the bearman, who had re-seated himself at the table, and was abusing what looked like a salad fork to eat his meat, and in a most uncomely manner at that, skewering half the entree on it's stem before stuffing into the side of his downturned face. It was revolting to watch.

"[color=f7941d]Adela my love, you're upsetting the other guests.[/color]" Her husband lilted at her. She turned toward him with a furiously stormy expression, but he returned a loving, long-suffering one. That damned man's face could thaw an iceberg with its warmth!

"[color=f7941d]Second-guessing our host is beyond improper, my dear.[/color]"

Thomas's voice was a buttery smooth assertion of the obvious that brooked no question, or compromise. "[color=f7941d]And besides, it looks like he wont be getting a refill any time soon dear, look who's perched on his shoulder.[/color]"

Adela looked toward Cedar again, and this time saw Caitlyn Stritzel practically groping his forearm, then covered her mouth in demure shock and disgust.

"[color=00aeef]She didn't waste much time, did she?[/color]"

"[color=f7941d]Lady Stritzel is a loyal subject of his majesty darling... --but don't you at least feel sorry for the poor fellow? Look how bothered he looks...[/color]"

It was at just that moment that Cedar yanked his hand away and stared incredulously at the woman seated next to him.

"[color=00aeef]oh dear... you're right, of course, Thomas Darling...I'm sorry..[/color]"

He placed his hand around hers and led her away, murmuring in that buttery baritone of his. "[color=f7941d]There, there, my love. Come, let us enjoy our hors d'ourves, then have a little dance. That poor fellow will be lucky to escape unscathed tonight; there's nothing to worry about.[/color]"

She let out a feeble smile, then followed him away, but not before sneaking an angry scowl back at Yvonne.