It was at that moment Amethyst walked through the door to ask the king where they'd sup that eve. She clutched the doorframe for support when she heard his words, not tinged with the slightest hint of humor this time.
Norfolk turned and gave her a slight bow of recognition. He stammered a few parting words to the king and backed out of the chamber. She stood aside to let him pass, and watched as Henry unrolled a map. He plunked a pitcher on its edge to keep it down, and leaned over on his elbows to study it, following a route with his golden toothpick.
She daren't interrupt him now. Later, after a full meal, she could make him listen to reason. She retreated, crept along the wall, and was just backing out the door when her name thundered through the chamber.
“Amethyst! Stay you here, I'
