The garden party was held in the rear garden of the palace. Velvety green lawns dotted with majestic river red gums swept down to a small lake. Although most guests tended to stand chatting as they circulated, a few small chairs and tables were provided for those who could not stand for too long. Liveried servants threaded through the throngs bearing trays of drinks and savouries.
Maud drifted artfully through the nobles and distinguished people who had been graced with an invitation, listening briefly to conversations as she passed. She spent a few minutes as part of the group around the King, observing who was intent on speaking to him and why. King Gavin was a slight man in his mid-twenties, his wavy, auburn hair not quite reaching his shoulders. His blue eyes twinkled benignly at thos
