Chapter 228

As the sky darkened the area began to fill up as people continued to arrive. Multicolored magical lights ensured the entire course was well lit. The observation deck however was lit up with more reserved champagne colored lighting.

New arrivals were encouraged to give the course a try before they would then be ushered up to the observation deck to mingle with the other guests.

M'redith leaned over and placed a hand on his arm as she spoke in to his ear so that he could hear her over the sounds of conversation all around him.

“Did you invite all of these people?” she asked in wonder as she looked about.

Jay shook his head in the negative, “I've no idea who most of these people are. I wonder why Boland invited them.”

M'redith chuckled and rubbed his arm affectionately. “Poor Jay. You're really not cut out for politics. These are the people you need to impress if you want your business to do well. They're either people you know, people Boland believes that you should know, or people with large followings who will spread the good word about your new business venture.”

Jay nodded, “That makes sense. I guess I just thought that tonight would be all about the mini-golf course.”

M'redith shrugged and looked out over the packed mini-golf course and smiled. “It's the perfect opportunity for you to do some networking – or would be if you were in to politics. Just be you and have fun and everything will be ok. Probably.”

Jay nodded just as a voice pierced through the noise of so many conversations happening all at once.

“Welcome!” a man in a fancy suit practically shouted in a booming voice that carried over the gathered crowd. He had stood up on to a chair on the observation deck so that everyone could see him. People down below continued to play mini-golf as he spoke, his voice loud enough to be heard by all.

“Welcome!” the man in the suit again boomed loudly before he took another breath as the crowd quieted. “Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished guests, welcome to the grand opening of M'redith Meadows, filled with fun and challenges! I am thrilled to stand before you today to introduce our spectacular new mini-golf course, where dreams and laughter intersect in a maze of twists, turns, and obstacles that will test your skills and ignite your imagination!”

His patter was well rehearsed and he spoke with the cadence of a circus performer, his excitement infectious and palpable to all of those listening.

“First and foremost,” he continued, “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for joining us on this very special occasion. I, as well as the owners, are absolutely thrilled to have you here with us tonight. Also, a very special thanks goes out to Boland, without whom none of this would have been completed on time. Thank you Boland!”

A smattering of applause sounded from the crowd before it died down and the man in the suit on the chair spoke once again.

“Now, let me introduce you to our jewel - our miniature golfing paradise. Our new course is a testament to creativity, craftsmanship, and pure entertainment. Each hole has been meticulously designed to challenge your precision, strategy, and, of course, your sense of fun. From cascading waterfalls to treacherous sand traps and mind-boggling obstacles, you will find yourself immersed in a world where imagination knows no bounds.”

Jay grinned as M'redith squeezed his arm and smiled at him in excitement as she got swept up in the man's spiel.

“But that's not all! Today, we have an extra special treat for you all. We believe that a little healthy competition adds spice to any game, and what better way to encourage your competitive spirit than with an incredible prize? The player with the lowest final score at the end of our tournament will be rewarded with a bottle of Diamond Wine!”

The crowd was split in its reaction. Most looked uncertain or confused and plainly had no idea what Diamond Wine was. Sprinkled among them however were people who did. Mayor Figs for example, and King Ferrigualt. They clearly were aware of what it was and looked excited. Others began to applaud.

Jay had leaned over towards M'redith's ear and was about to ask her what Diamond Wine was when the man in the suit explained it for him without being asked.

“Ah, Diamond Wine – a truly extraordinary libation,” the man said with a theatrical sigh. “This unique wine holds a secret within its depths, as each sip unlocks an unknown number of experience points. Think of it as a delightful surprise, an opportunity to enhance your own abilities or discover new talents. Whether it's an extra level of creativity, a boost in problem-solving skills, or a hidden talent waiting to be unearthed, the Diamond Wine promises an unforgettable journey of self-discovery.”

Those in the crowd that had not yet become excited over the wine now did so as the promise of free experience points was a draw too strong for any of those in attendance to resist. The crowd applauded wildly and some whistled in appreciation of the prize. Jay could hear Mayor Figs' voice hoot and holler in approval.

“So, my friends!” the man standing on the chair yelled, “Gather your putters, unleash your competitive spirit, and let us embark on a mini-golf adventure like no other. May this course bring joy, laughter, and lasting memories for all who dare to take on the challenge. Once again, thank you for joining us today, and may the best golfer win the coveted prize of the Diamond Wine! Let the games begin!”

The crowd broke in to wild applause as the man bowed before he stepped down off of the chair and melded back in to the crowd.

“Your master of ceremonies is amazing. Where did you find him?” M'redith asked as she leaned towards Jay so that he could hear her.

“I've no idea! I've never seen him before. If I had to guess I'd say that was Boland's doing, hiring him I mean.” Jay explained.

M'redith nodded with a neutral expression just as they were interrupted as the applause died down.

“Hey! Aren't you the woman on the sign?” a man in a black and white striped shirt remarked as he was about to walk past her.

M'redith smiled and looked from Jay to the man before answering, “Yes, apparently. Someone thought it would be a good idea to put my face up for the world to see.”

“You look great! They made a good choice!” the man said with a laugh.

Jay suddenly realized who they were speaking with.

“Oh, Hi! This is Todd – he owns Magical Slushies across the street – we gave him a booth up here on the observation deck, Todd, this is M'redith, my girlfriend.”

Todd pointed to a wooden nametag he wore on his shirt. It read, simply. 'Todd.'

“Good to meet the face of the business! We've met before though – when Jay and I first met.” Todd replied with a laugh as he reached out and shook M'redith's hand before he shook Jay's hand in greeting. “Stop by the booth later on, I'll make you guys a slushie.”

M'redith smiled and nodded, “Oh now I remember! As for the slushie you have yourself a deal!”

Todd smiled and waved before he turned and squeezed his way through the crowd as he moved to return to his booth. He had customers waiting from the looks of it.

A good portion of the crowd had begun to make their way slowly downstairs to the mini-golf course as everyone wanted a chance at winning the Diamond Wine.

Jay shook his head at all of the excitement over the wine. “Seems like a lot of excitement for just a bit of experience points.”

M'redith laughed and bumped in to his body lightly with her own, “Jay, Diamond wine isn't just expensive, it's rare. These people might be able to afford a bottle but they'd be hard pressed to find one for sale. It's a legitimate treasure. I would like to win it. Wait. Can I win it? Am I disqualified because I'm dating you?”

Jay shrugged but then shook his head as he leaned closer so that she would hear him. “I think the only people that can't win would be me, Toren, and probably Boland. I'm fairly certain the wine was his doing. I wonder how much the wine cost me?”

M'redith gave him a side hug and Jay forgot all about how much the wine might cost.

The course was becoming more crowded now as more people began to play. People were put in to groups of four that would play each hole together but everyone moved along quickly and players rarely felt like they had to wait for the people ahead of them for the most part.

A woman carrying a tray of champagne flutes paused next to Jay and raised her eyebrow the tiniest fraction. M'redith nodded in thanks before she reached out and took two glasses. She handed one to Jay and he was about to sip from it before she stopped him.

“Wait! We haven't toasted anything yet!” M'redith said as she laid one hand on his arm before he could drink.

Jay smiled. “Ok,” he said as he raised his glass in her direction. “To M'redith,” he said with a silly looking grin.

M'redith laughed. “To M'redith Meadows.”

They clinked glasses and drank as they stood closely to one another.

“There you are! I've been looking all over for you! This place is huge!” Mayor Figs said with a deep voice as he strode up to the two of them.

“Mayor, good to see you,” Jay said politely just as M'redith swallowed a sip of wine and nodded.

Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.

The Mayor reached out and shook Jay's hand and then M'redith's before he took a sip of his own drink.

“So,” he said and suddenly looked like a boy who had been caught doing something he shouldn't have. “I was hoping to run in to you here, Patron. First off, great party. I haven't played the 'course' yet but it looks like fun and I'm looking forward to it. And where did you find Diamond Wine?!”

Mayor Figs was shorter than Jay, everyone in Eden seemed to be shorter than Jay except for Librarians. The Mayor was also, however, huge. Muscled. What he lacked in height he more than made up for in muscle. He was a large man that dominated any space he found himself in without having to try. He was also a bit drunk. Not completely drunk mind you, but just a bit.

“It has been brought to my attention that I may have been a bit short sighted in my anger with you over what you've done with Kagan's Dome.” the Mayor said as he looked everywhere but at Jay. “You made a lot of extra work for my city,” he said before he looked around as if worried that someone might overhear him in the commotion of the party. “But you've also made us a lot of money. Anyway, I think I might have been wrong about you, so – sorry. There. I said it. Goodbye.”

The Mayor grunted and gave Jay a pat on the back before he wandered off in to the crowd to yell at someone else. Jay watched him go with a bit of confusion.

“What was that all about?” Jay wondered out loud.

M'redith laughed, “That was adorable. I'm guessing his spouse or significant other forced him to apologize. He's a gruff guy but has a strong sense of fairness. I'm guessing that apologizing doesn't come easy to him.”

Jay chuckled, “Ya well, that was incredibly awkward. Still, no worries. I'd almost forgotten all about how pissy he had been with me becoming Patron of the Dome.”

A steady stream of people were finishing the course and taking the stairs to the deck to sit and rest, maybe have a snack and some wine – or a slushie. As people finished playing more people would leave the deck to go and have a try at the course.

“Want to go try playing?” Jay asked after he'd taken another sip of his drink.

M'redith laughed and shook her head. “No! I mean, yes, but no. We have to stay here. People want to talk with you and they can't do that if you're playing the game. Just sit tight, someone will approach us soon – see? There's someone now,”

The 'someone' was actually a group of someones. A trio actually. Two Kingdom Guards flanked King Ferrigualt who wore a very expensive looking white and tan outfit with purple detail work.

“Jay! It's great to see you again! Thank you for the invite!” the King said in a loud voice as he approached them. He gave M'redith's hand a shake before he then shook Jay's hand.

Jay knew he was 'supposed' to call him King Ferrigualt but the King had been adamant that he was to refer to him at all times as Fair instead. It was a little social riddle that Jay was forced to solve every time they met in public.

“Fair, happy to see you again, glad you could make it.” Jay replied with a wry smile.

Jay and the King were rewarded with a number of awkward looks as Jay used the personal form of the King's name rather than the official one. The crowd didn't like that.

The King waved away the displeased looks, “Oh don't mind them, they can't help themselves. Love the place Jay. Would you be interested in maybe setting up one of these at my castle? I think I would love to be able to play this on a frequent basis – my court would enjoy it as well.”

Onlookers took note of the King's approval. The King wanted a mini-golf course of his very own! And the King seemed to enjoy Jay's use of his shortened name! What was going on there between the King and this nobody they wondered.

Jay nodded just as Toren walked by. “Toren! Come here!” Jay said as he reached out and pulled Toren towards him. “This is Toren, co-owner – I gave him the plans and he supervised building the course.”

“Y-your Majesty,” Toren said nervously and bowed at the waist.

The King nodded, “Yes yes, my Majesty,” the King replied impatiently but with a playful smile. “Can you or can you not build a course like this at my castle?”

Toren was a bit overwhelmed by suddenly being in the presence of not just royalty but the King himself, it was too much, and he was momentarily overcome and stood speechless.

Jay poked him in the side and Toren startled.

“Yes! With enough land, money, and tradesmen, absolutely I can build you one,” Toren finally managed to get out.

“Excellent! I shall have my people reach out to you then. You'll of course be well compensated for your services. It was a pleasure to meet you Toren,” the King said in dismissal and with a short nod.

Toren nodded back and grinned before he slowly walked off in the direction he had originally been headed. He'd just been hired by the King!

The King watched him go. “He seems a bit nervous,” he said with a slight frown.

“He's never met a King before probably,” Jay pointed out and M'redith chuckled.

“Right,” the King said and looked back over at Jay. “Enough about Toren, let's talk about you!”

Jay laughed and shook his head, “What did I do now?”

“Nothing. Yet. But you will. Big changes are coming for Eden – and you're one of them. I still have something to ask of you but now isn't the best time for it. Just... keep me in mind. Oh, and congratulations on finding your fifth group member!” the King said with a wide grin.

M'redith looked at him oddly, “What fifth member?”

Jay shook his head, “We haven't added anyone to the Glimmerhides, yet.”

The King sighed, “I must have misunderstood. Dreams can be slippery like that. Congratulations on making a new friend then,” the King finished with a teasing smile as if he knew far more than he let on.

Jay immediately thought of Sha'li – was he talking about her? “Um, thanks?” he said as M'redith placed a hand on his arm.

“Maybe when my mini-golf course is built you will come and play a round with me? After your graduation of course,” the King offered with a smile.

“Sounds like a good time,” Jay answered simply.

The King laughed, “It does, doesn't it? We'll have fun. Until then, I should move along, I see a Bishop that I need to have words with. Talk with you soon Jay. Lovely seeing you again, M'redith.”

The King shook their hands before he left with his two escorts and pushed his way through the crowd.

Jay and M'redith were left alone in the sea of guests for a moment and they stood quietly near each other.

“Ok. What was that all about do you think?” Jay asked.

M'redith shrugged. “He wants to ask you to do something for him and he's drawing you closer to him so that you'll feel more inclined to say yes when he finally asks.”

Jay nodded, “Ok, so he wants something from me. So far he's been pretty nice about it.”

M'redith nodded in reply. “Let's hope it stays that way. I can't believe you called him Fair though.”

Jay sighed in frustration, “He TOLD me to, what am I supposed to do?”

M'redith chuckled, “Quite the impossible situation to be in I suppose. Better you than me,” she teased him.

“Oh hey, Norri!” Jay said as Norri approached them with another woman.

The woman's hair was worn down and was long and curly. Jay didn't recognize her until she spoke.

“Jay, M'redith,” the woman said and Jay suddenly realized who she was.

“Alize?” Jay asked in confusion.

“I am,” she replied with a smile.

“Wait. Did I invite you and just forget I did it?” Jay asked in a puzzled tone of voice.

Alize laughed and shook her head, “No invite, I'm crashing your party. Druids go where they're needed,” she said and Norri nodded in agreement beside her.

“Oh,” Jay said shortly and was unsure of how to proceed. Alize took care of that for him.

“I'm just visiting real quick – I needed to talk with you actually. One question.” Alize asserted as she looked directly at Jay.

“Sure, shoot.” Jay said with a shrug.

“Did you turn all of the paperwork you found over to the Bibliomancer?” Alize asked in a strong voice.

Jay thought about it for a moment and nodded. “I gave him everything I was able to carry out. If I had it – he has it.”

Alize raised one of her hands and opened it to reveal a chunky blue crystal. It was glowing a deep soothing blue. She shoved the crystal in to a pouch at her waist and nodded. “Great. Just needed to be sure. Just out of curiosity – did you read any of it?”

Jay felt M'redith's hand on his arm squeeze lightly and he knew in that moment that Alize's real purpose for being there was to ask him that question.

Jay shook his head as Alize watched him out of the corner of her eye as she looked in another direction.

“There was no time – we were being chased. I grabbed the papers and ran – barely made it out as it was,” Jay said and winced as he felt M'redith grow uneasy next to him as he described how close to death he had come.

Alize nodded, “Great! Just have to be thorough. That's it for me – love the place though, this looks like a lot of fun! You guys have a great night – I have things to do but I'll see you around.”

They exchanged hand shakes before Alize left with Norri, the two chattering with each other the entire time.

“Your turn,” M'redith said, “what was that all about?”

Jay laughed, “Didn't Norri tell you? I grabbed some papers on my way out of the pocket dimension in the library. Seems like they might have been important.”

M'redith nodded, unhappy that Jay had, again, managed to get himself caught up in something he shouldn't have. “Or dangerous. And you really didn't read any of them?”

“Really,” Jay insisted. “There was no time for anything other than running.”

M'redith sighed and let the matter go. She'd already yelled at him for his foolishness, no sense in doing so again and ruining a good night. Instead she handed Jay her empty glass and gave him a quick kiss.

“Mind getting us some more wine?” M'redith asked as she leaned up against the railing and looked out over the course and the people playing.

“Sure,” Jay said as he took her glass from her with a cheerful smile. “I'll be right back.”