You spend the next hour escorting various personages to quarters in the North Wing. With the Pendragon here, much of the court has come with him. There are more nobles in one place than you have ever seen, and remembering the correct forms of address and social niceties becomes difficult. You receive more than a few frowns from people as you show them to rooms.
Then, the Chamberlain, Sir Gammon, finds you near the front door. He does not look happy. "Squire Cedwyn! Where in blazes have you been? Lord Salisbury has need of your services! And look at you! Still wearing the dust from the road! Disgraceful! Get cleaned up at once, and report to the Count's chambers!"
Sir Gammon is a household knight, with no holding of his own. He is responsible for the Count's chambers, treasury and bodyguard. You always felt he was keenly aware he had no holding of his own. An old knight with his best years behind him, rumour has it the Count gave him a position to fund a pleasant retirement. Sir Gammon seized on the task like a dog on a bone, and takes it very seriously. Too seriously, some would say.
This is an awkward situation - technically as a land holder, you outrank Sir Gammon. But, he is a knight and you are a squire, which gives him precedence. Still, he has the ear of the Count, so best to tread lightly.
Countess Ellen excuses herself from a conversation and steps over.
"Sir Gammon, this squire was delayed at my insistence, for I needed help to find rooms for all of King Uther's retinue."
Sir Gammon grunts, clearly unimpressed, though his displeasure is clearly directed at you. Turning to the Countess, he says with perfect courtesy, "Of course, m'lady. I see now what kept him."
Satisfied, Ellen returns to greeting guests. When she is out of earshot, Sir Gammon says quietly, "Your duty is to the Count, Cedwyn. If her ladyship needs you, let her ask her husband. You should have told her you had other obligations. Now, go get cleaned up and report to the Count's chambers."
