His eyes flicking over the table, then blazing up to the other players.  Assuming the max raise is reached... "Show us what you've got."  His voice is like wormwood and honey... smoky and livid, despite the simplicity of his words.<br/><br/>The cards turn.  This time, Andi-- being called--  has to show first.<br/><br/><br/>CHAIR 2: A............ Qh Ad 10c Jc W!<br/><br/>"The wild card sets your highest hand as a high straight... Ace to Ten."  He nods.  "Impressive."<br/>Cynthia turns her cards in face-down... despite showing a pair, evidently she couldn't beat the straight.<br/><br/>Since Sally can't beat the straight either, I assume she'll fold face-down as well.<br/><br/>Lucan watches Andi, a wry smile on his face, and turns his hands over as well.  "Well played."<br/><br/>Once Andi's raked in her chips, Lucan begins reshuffling the deck, and is prepared to deal once the antes are in.<br/><br/>In the meantime, the hostess generously fills Jim's glass, watching him from the corner of her eye as she turns her hip toward him, then, without warning, takes a little sip of it.  "Did you ever read much history..?"  She smiles.  "I always liked it in school... particularly ancient history."  She still holds on to the glass, swirling it... "Emperor Nero, evidently, liked his wine to be seasoned with... natural flavorings."  She grins, offering him the glass back.  "Let me know if I can do the same for you."<br/><br/>"Enough of that," murmurs Lucan from the table.  "Jim's expected, poppet.  Can he come back and play with us for a while?"