“What have you done?”  From his comfortable position on the carpet, Orion heard a familiar voice.  Or at least, he thought he did.  His brain was still a bit fuzzy from the previous night’s absinthe intake.  “Let’s get you up off of that floor,” Bernard said, clearly exasperated.  Now facing each other, the valet turned away as the Prince’s breath welcomed him.  It was only then that he took note of his empty flask on the bed.  “You’ve been a naughty boy, Orion,” he teasingly scolded.  “What brought about this decision to drink yourself silly?”<br/><br/>Orion stared back, trying to focus on the face in front of him.  “Pah!  Women!” he spat.  “I’m better off with just Shade, and maybe a dog.  Less work.”  For reasons known only to him, he began laughing hysterically.  Bernard calmly shook his head as the pair were now standing.  “You are in no shape whatsoever for your picnic with the Princess today, my Prince” he stated.<br/><br/>“Who?” Orion answered back, still a bit groggy.  “The Princess.  You know, Cassiopeia?” Bernard hastily added.  Recognition of the name sparked the same venomous response.  “Pah!  Women!” Orion shot back.  “Can’t live with ‘em, can’t live without . . . I actually think I could live without them.”  This raised a smile from his attendant, who then informed him, “You need a shower.”<br/><br/>“I need some coffee!  The stronger, the better,” the Prince requested.  “Very well,” Bernard replied.  “Start and get into the shower and I’ll bring you some.  You can drink it while showering.  And don’t forget to use soap and shampoo,” he reminded him.  Orion frowned at the retreating Bernard, as he thought while grinning, he can be such a mother hen sometimes.  On his way downstairs, the valet made sure to have another staff member inform Cassiopeia of Orion’s tardiness.