Landon and Agraynel

[Wired*Nun]

[Putting this in a new private thread, I'd like to go private with it as Rebis it seems will not be joining Landon and Co on their mission to tweak the uiverse into shape. This way, Rebis' and Landon's actions will be separate and private again until they run into someone. This will keep the mystery for the other players.]

After enjoying an after dinner drink and smoke, Landon steps out into the lawn and rough houses with Arthur a bit. He retires for the evening finally falling asleep contently to the sound of Helena's rhythmic breathing.

The next morning and there after Landon wakes up fairly early and calls for Arthur. "We have work to do my friend."

He takes a brisk morning jog with his friend before returning for breakfast. Afterwards, he practices in the yard until lunch. He spends his afternoons in the library requesting to not be disturbed unless it's of terrible importance. Landon relies on Arthur to wrest him from his studies in the early evening there after he devotes the rest of his time to Helena. They alternate between going out on the town and staying home. He ends his days with a long, satisfying visit to the bath houses.

Landon quickly falls into routine and all but forgets his current woes. Until given reason otherwise, he'll continue in this fashion for as long as he is able.

[Wired*Nun]

Landon receives a trump call from Corwin. "I just tried to get ahold of Rebis...he's not answering or blocked. Either something happened to him, of he decided against working with us and also decided not to tell me. This makes me wonder what he's up to or gotten into. Either way, he could be talking to others, willingly or unwillingly."

"Coral has also observed Bleys checking into the Lakeshore shadow, and then moving off. Since she used properties of the Jewel to do that, I think he did not know himself to be observed. I also think he did not want to stick around too long. He knows it's my backyard, and while we are not on bad terms, I'm sure he wants to keep it that way. He tried to Trump me, but I blocked him, as I have everyone else."

"How would you like to do some scouting around? I'd like to do one more of my own Brokens before we enter opposing territory."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon replies, "Well Rebis's actions come as no surprise, but I am a bit disappointed, nonetheless. Sure. Wouldn't mind stretching my legs a bit if you think Bleys is well away. Where to?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Seek an large building on a blasted plain, inside a crater a mile across. Here is a memory of it." An image forms in Landon's mind, sufficient to shift shadow toward...inside the crater is a swarm of activity, as of tens of thousands of beings working tirelessly on machines both simple and complex. Buildings inside the crater belch smoke, and vehicles move on roads. Across the crater on the other side, Landon can see a road twisting up to the rim, and a line of vehicles moving up and down. A large hexagonal building sits at the center.

"The Broken is inside that building. Scout as much as you think best. You don't need to take any risks, as far as I know."

[TreyKincaide]

"All right," Landon nods in agreement. "What's the time differential so I can let Helena know about how long I'm going to be away, and did you want Grayswandir back while I'm out? Anything further intell you have on this place?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Keep it with you, I can always get it back if I need it, and you may find it more useful out in shadow than I will here. The time differential should be negligible. They are a technological shadow, roughly equal to Earth in the fifties. So, they do have firearms, and things like that. Like I said, be careful, hkeep my Trump handy, check out the magic of that place, let me know if anything has changed in the last few months since I have been there."

[TreyKincaide]

"Will do." Landon says breaking contact. He goes to talk to Helena and lets her know that he'll be gone, but that he should be back within the week. He and her do as couples do when saying goodbyes. He stops by the bath house, and then makes whatever traveling preparations he'll need--food, a tent, etc. He'll not bring a horse with him and get one later if he needs it. He girds Grayswandir at his left hip opposite his Trump pouch on the right. He pauses momentarily wondering if the difficulty of shifting shadow in Amber applies here as well and makes a mental note to be extra careful.

With that all finished, he sets out walking away from Rome and starts shifting trying to get the plain right taking care to change his clothes and possessions along the way.

[Wired*Nun]

Landon has little difficulty shifting away from Rome. In fact, he suspects the "shadow gradient" slopes away from Corwin's Pattern rather than toward it, as it does in Amber.

A few hours of easy shifting find Landon overlooking the enormous crater he saw in Corwin's memory-vision. The bustle of activity is there, and the stink of burning fossil fuels.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon backs aways from the edge.

Not a pleasant place. Not that I can see anyway. Let's do what's needed and away with myself.

Landon begins his magical recon. He experiments up on high to find just the right lynchpin to use. At his satisfaction, Landon tries to find a better vantage point to see what he can see.

[Wired*Nun]

After satisfying himself with the magic of this shadow, Landon observes from the rock wall for a time. Unfortunately he can see little from this distance, and nothing dramatic seems to be happening.

[TreyKincaide]

Before attempting to actually get closer Landon walks along the crater's rock wall perimeter. He wills the Pattern to serve his desire and feels probability bend ever so slightly. Luckily he finds a pair of high powered binoculars--lens intact--carelessly wedged between and underneath a few of the looser rocks at the wall's base. Landon looks around and walks as far as necessary to ensure that he's still in the intended shadow.

Using his fortuitous "discovery," Landon takes a peek over the wall again. He concentrates primarily on the main building. He continues following the perimeter trying to get close enough to view the cars on the road driving up the opposite rim.

To think that this place lies in "close proximity" to Rome makes me almost sad. Maybe with the taint of the Broken Pattern gone, this place will improve.

If Landon deems it necessary to scout out further using his best tactical judgment, he'll attempt to do so. If he's satisfied that little has changed in accordance with Corwin's memory without moving closer, he'll pull out Corwin's Trump and give him a ring.

[Wired*Nun]

[Landon is at the top of the crater wall, not the base. There is nothing to look over or under.]

Picking his way along the top of the crater, Landon checks the installation from various angles. He notices he is parallelling a dirt track with tire ruts in it. Not too long after, he sees a vehicle heading his way, perhaps a quarter mile off. It will take less than a minute to get to him.

Since it seems like it's about time to call Corwin anyway, it is doubly so now. Contact comes immediately. "Here."

[TreyKincaide]

[Sorry. For some reason I got confused.]

"All done. Can you pull me through? I'm expecting company shortly." Landon extends his hand to Corwin.

[Wired*Nun]

"Of course." He does that, and Landon is standing again on Corwin's front porch. Coral nods at him from the garden. "How'd it go?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon replies with a wave, "Cake. Walking away from here's like walking down hill. Did what I needed to do and walked the perimeter of the crater. Didn't get too close of a view, but everything seems as Corwin left it with one curious note. There were tire tracks up on top. I would have seen where they went, but a car was heading my direction. I figured a discussion with the locals a poor idea indeed." He turns to Corwin, "Mind if I grab something to drink? Thirsty work."

[Wired*Nun]

"Beer or whatever in the icebox. Toss me one too, will you? Sorry, just local brands. I really need to get something set up for German beer, Italian cheese...Coke! Thanks." He opens the bottle and drinks, then shakes his head like a wet dog. "Ha. I really need to get out more. I miss the days I could just walk around in Shadow without a care, just living day to day. Now, most times it's just...a job. I really feel for Dworkin. He was a little mad before the accident even. Give me a thousand years, I'll be a little mad too. If I'm lucky."

[TreyKincaide]

After tossing Corwin a beer, Landon grabs one himself and goes back out to the porch taking a seat. "There are worse places to be cooped up, but I get what you mean. A prison of one's own design is still a prison. I think Random and Merlin have it rougher, though. Chained to a throne and dealing with the hot beds of intrigue that are Amber and the Courts day in and day out without the freedom to just take off for lengths of time."

Landon takes a drink, "Better them than me."

[Wired*Nun]

"Fortunately it's a prison where I have the key, and it's a lot more fun than ruling Amber ever was. Once we get things rebalanced, maybe we'll have a time of equilibrium, like we had under Oberon."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon responds, "Maybe," but the tone in his voice betrays some doubt. He takes a drink. "You're right about needing to get better beer. This is terrible." Landon stretches out on the porch enjoying the pleasant afternoon temperature--a vast contrast to the blasted wasteland that he was in minutes before.

Interesting that Coral wasn't around when Rebis was. Surely that was intentional.

[Wired*Nun]

Maybe he didn't want a Chaos Lord tempted by the Left Eye of the Serpent...

"Tell you what. Since we have a few days, want to run an errand? You fly, I'll buy? I can smooth the way for you to bring in a refrigerator-truck full of Earth supplies, if you're willing to make an old man happy. German beer, Coke, Scotch, caviar...macaroons...Girl Scout cookies...Asiago cheese...I can give you a list. It's not glamorous...you could even take Helena, she might find it fun. I bet she'd get a kick out of modern Roma or Milano...or New York, for that matter. What do you think?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon looks thoughtful. "If it means not drinking this swill you call beer, I'm all for it."

Even if it means that I become nothing but a glorified delivery boy. Kinda risky. I wonder if they're looking for me yet. No matter. I should be fine.

"I did promise Helena to show her exotic places. Sure, we'll go."

Landon sets his unfinished beer on the porch and waits while Corwin makes a list and checks it twice. Once done he heads back to his dwelling in Rome. "Honey, I'm home and I have a surprise. How does a trip sound? Yes, Arthur you can come too. We're going home to run a little errand for Corwin."

Landon explains and makes preparations to depart.

[Wired*Nun]

"Oooh, yes, I'd love to go somewhere. I've never been anywhere! Oh, what shall I wear? What shall I pack? Oohhh..." She heads off in a tizzy, making preparations.

Arthur cocks his head at Landon and says, "Where are we going?" Assuming he gets an answer, he goes on, "Will be nice to visit back there...I don't imagine we'll be going back to where you used to live? There's a cat I still have some unfinished business with...never mind. This place is fine, but I miss being out and about with you in Shadow...just you and me, and all that. Don't worry, boss, I'm not jealous. But ah...now that you found a mate...if we run across one for me...I mean...if I happened to meet someone...would you mind?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon watches with amusement as Helena runs off to make unneccessary preparations.

Landon laughs and scratches Arthur behind the ears, "You are starting to get a bit long in the tooth aren't you boy? I remember when you used to be just as permiscuous as I running away to take the edge off. We're both old, I guess. Settling down. Tell you what. If we happen to find a bitch you fancy, Helena can keep her. Helena has someone to keep her company when I travel, you can come with me, and if you sire a litter, my children can have some playmates. I don't quite know where all we are going, though. If Rebis acts as expected, I should be a fugitive here soon."

Landon gets up and walk into the bedroom. "Helena, we're going to travel light. Don't worry about it. I'll take care of everything." he says as he gets a different scabbard for Graywandir and begins wrapping the hilt in twisted red cloth.

I wonder what's happening here soon that Corwin would send the three of us away. A visitor I'd find distasteful perhaps? An attack? Or are we bait to draw those out of the wood work? It seems that I'll should be expecting visitors in Shadow Earth. The least I can do is be a proper host.

[Wired*Nun]

"Boss, why will you be a fugitive here? They can't come here, can they?" Arthur looks puzzled.

Helena is soon packed with a traveling bag, and Arthur is, of course, ready as always. "I can't just take nothing at all. All right, my love, how are we getting there?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon replies "Figure of speech. We're as safe here as we are anywhere providing we remain in Corwin's good graces."

When Helena is ready, "Well, I could take us there instantly, but that takes the enjoyment away from the outing. Half the fun is getting there after all. Usually, I'd walk or take a horse, but in this case I believe a chariot should do until we find other transportation. There are things I need to explain on the way."

Landon has a servant bring a large chariot to the front of the manor. He ushers Helena and Arthur into the Roman transport. With a flick of the reins, they're off.

"Helena, we need to talk. There are things that you will see that you won't understand, and I don't want to frighten you. So, I'm going to take it from the top..."

While Landon begins shifting Shadow towards Earth he begins explaining to Helena about the true nature of himself, his family, and his abilities. He'll try to answer all of her questions truthfully, but will err on the side of shielding her from as much of the unpleasantness that he thinks is safe for her. For the most part he'll try to keep the walk as peaceful as possible and make minute changes--including language, clothing, and the chariot itself. He tells her beforehand what change to expect gradually building up momentum as she acclimates. When they need to rest, Landon and company make pit stops with food waiting for them in scenic picnic type locals. When they are far enough, Landon swaps the chariot for a cherry red vintage Chevy. He turns on the radio, and they continue on making any neccessary changes in trasportation--boarding a plan for instance-- to reach their Shadow Earth destination of New York. When he gets to a point where Grayswandir becomes an anachronism, he'll place it in a large traveling bag that he never lets out of his sight.

Once there, Landon checks them in at the Hilton under the name of Landon Flaumel. He makes a few phone calls arranging for the delivery of freezer truck containing the items that Corwin requested. That done, Helena and Landon refresh themselves from their journey in a private bath together before setting out to do as tourists do in New York.

[Wired*Nun]

Helena takes the explanations in amazing stride. "This is all wonderful. I knew you were an important man, and Lord Corwin told me that you shared some of the powers of the gods. It is all very interesting, though you must know that, though my family was not wealthy, my father sent me to the finest teachers he could afford. I already know much of this from the holy books. I just consider myself fortunate that the son of a god would choose me for a wife, as Ulysses did with Penelope." She holds her head up high, and says, "I shall make for you a wife to be proud of. I am no shrinking violet. Since you have chosen me, I must be worthy, not so?"

She exclaims in wonder at the technological marvels around her, and the enormous buildings. "Homes of the gods indeed. I half expect to see Oberon himself strolling down the street." Upon checking in to their suite at the Hilton, she quickly arranges for a relaxing bath for the two of them, shutting the door on poor Arthur, who rolls his eyes. "Not like I never saw humans mating before," he wuffs through the door.

Afterwards, Helena persuades Landon not to go anywhere, but order in. "It's all wonderful, but it's somewhat overwhelming. Let's just have them bring us something up and we can snuggle and look at the things on the magic box, or look out over the city."

[TreyKincaide]

"I would not call myself a god, but I would argue that you are indeed worthy of one." Landon says with a smile.

Landon nods and orders room service. He gets something special for Arthur. He flips on the television and shows Helena how to use the remote and gives it to her use. "We will need to go out eventually, dear. Perhaps tomorrow?"

When the bell boy arrives, Landon tips the man and wheels in the cart. He brings it over to the table, and sets places for himself, Helena, and two more empty spots. He sets a plate with a raw T-Bone down on the floor for Arthur. If Helena asks about the empty places Landon replies, "One must always be prepared for company."

[Wired*Nun]

Unfortunately, or fortunately, no company comes. The night passes with its usual events, Arthur snoring in the living room in front of the fake fire, belly full of beef. Helena has to be persuaded to turn off the TV, as she seems to want to drink it all in at once.

The next morning, a light snow falls on New York, quickly turning into slush and thin mud in the streets. It least it cleared the air. The sounds of traffic waft upwards to their window.

[TreyKincaide]

The cacophony rouses Landon from his slumber. In that half dazed state between sleep and waking he forgets where he is momentarily until his vision focuses. Rubbing his eyes Landon stumbles to the bathroom after "harumphing" at the clock.

Landon takes a shower to finish waking himself up.

Baths are nice, but I do love hot running water. The waste of it all. Modern luxury at it's finest. Funny how I'm beginning to find pleasure in something as simple as a shower.

Refreshed, Landon steps out and stirs his wife. "Dear, we don't want to sleep our vacation away. There are things to do and see. I figure it'll be at least a day or two until my order is filled, and we'll have to go. At the very least we should go out shopping, sample what I call New York cuisine, see the sights, and catch a play or two on Broadway. Snow has fallen, so maybe it's cold enough to skate in Central Park. Was there anything in particular you wanted to see or do? I was thinking about dropping by a residence that Flora and I had in up state New York before we leave, but I'm not sure if it's a good idea."

"I had thought, if you wanted, I'd teach you to drive on the way back. We'd try here, but the roads are slick."

[Wired*Nun]

"Oh, my, is it morning already?" She runs to the window and opens it, looking out over the rooftops and the gray sky. "Yes, I want to go and see everything! Whatever you want to show me is fine, my husband. This is your world, and I am happy to be here in it."

"Well, I have an idea," says Arthur. "I want to go to Central Park and pee on some fire hydrants, and sniff some noses."

"I had thought, if you wanted, I'd teach you to drive on the way back. We'd try here, but the roads are slick."

"What's 'drive,' my love? It sounds exciting, whatever it is."

[TreyKincaide]

"Central Park it is after you get dressed and bundled up. Teaching you to drive means teaching you to operate an automobile like the ones on television."

While Helena sees to herself, Landon orders breakfast. After they've eaten, off they go to Central Park where Landon tries to teach Helena how to skate. After that, Landon gives a whirlwind tour of New York stopping at places that Landon surmises of Helena's interest--including a greasy diner for a chili dog for contrast.

[Wired*Nun]

A wonderful day in New York passes, not even dampened by the fact that it is not really frozen hard enough to skate. Still, that leaves more time for the myriad of other activities available. The sights, the smells, the food, the atmosphere...a performance of Chicago and dinner at Couvron, where an impossible-to-get table just happens to open up, rounds out the day. It's kind of a honeymoon.

The next morning, the shipping company calls the room to let Landon know the truck is loaded and waiting for him to pick up.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon and company stop for a nice breakfast before heading over to pick up his order. Landon files into the driver's seat after taking inventory seeing that his order is complete and hopes that the cab is large enough to comfortably accomodate his family.

The rumbling sound of the engine pulses to life as they begin. Landon transverses the many streets and begins heading north out of New York. He cracks the window ever so slightly to keep himself alert in spite of the soothing hum of the vehicle's heater. What would usually take around 3 hours ends up taking a good half a day as Landon stops frequently for pit stops.

At long last they find themselves in front of a small mansion in up state New York. For a time Landon says nothing and just stares at the building. He turns the ignition key and the engine sputters dying.

It's been a while since I've been here. Well, we've come all this way. It'd be stupid to turn back now. I came here to find a mother for me, and a mate for Arthur. Why am I so unsure? Flora's probably still in Amber. I doubt Random would let her away. My visit here will not go unnoticed. Her spies abound. Am I nervous about what I might find rather than who?

Landon says, "All ashore." They slowly approach the house. He attempts to look calm in spite of growing trepidation. Landon walks up to the front door and rings the bell.

I wonder if the maid's around. If not, it looks like I'm breaking in. I hope the alarm code hasn't changed.

[Wired*Nun]

The door opens on the mansion to reveal a fit-looking man in his thirties, dressed in jeans and a black polo shirt that says "ST-6" and has some kind of nautical design on the breast pocket.

"Yes? Can I help you? And how did you get in the gate?" Landon realizes from his stance that this man has unarmed combat skills. I guess all that close work with the Eric paid off...

[TreyKincaide]

A lover perhaps, a child of hers, or someone such as myself that Flora took in out of the "kindness of her heart"?

Landon hides his surprise. "Yes, I'm terribly sorry to bother you, but I was under the impression that this residence was owned by my relative, a Ms. Evelyn Flaumel. I lived here in my youth, you see, and was in the area. I could be mistaken, perhaps, it was a long time ago and I haven't seen Evelyn for a spell. It could be that she no longer resides here? If that's the case may I ask if you would know of a forwarding address? I wish to retrieve a few personal affects, of sentimental value and maybe catch up on old times."

[Wired*Nun]

"Ah, yeah, I think you're talking about Ellen's aunt Evelyn. Ellen Oberson lives here now, her aunt willed her the property when she died. Least, that's what I've been told. Oh, I'm Kirk Rivers, I watch the place when she's gone." He sticks out his hand.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon looks appropriately forlorn, "Dead? I guess I've been out of touch longer than I thought."

Can't start anything with Helena here.

Landon takes the proffered hand seemingly relaxed yet ready for an attack, "Landon. I wouldn't suppose that Evelyn left behind any letters or my belongings?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Landon? You're Landon Flaumel? Man, you look good for...what, you must be almost forty by now. Must be that beard. Yeah, Ellen said you might come back some time, your stuff's locked up in a closet. She said you had a business down in South Africa or something, right?"

Helena, evidently tired of being in the background, walks up and introduces herself in Thari. "Greetings, I am Helena, wife of Landon." Kirk looks at her in confusion, and says, "Sorry, I don't speak Afrikaans. Still, you found yourself a looker down there, man, good on ya. Come on in." He holds out his hand for Arthur to sniff, says "Hey, buddy, you're a big guy," pats his head, and turns to lead them in.

Inside, everything is as he remembers it. A few of the pictures have been changed, updated...evidently Flora has taken the identity of a niece, a dead ringer for her aunt...changed hairstyle, clothing of course.

"Stuff's up here, second floor, next to the gym. Put it in when me and Ellen hooked up. As you can see, I'm kind of a gym rat, so this is a dream gig. Put a range in the basement, too. You shoot?"

[TreyKincaide]

"Clean living friend. I must admit to some degree of vanity and hide the gray." Landon smiles.

As they walk in Landon switches to Thari turning to Helena, "Good show. It seems that he's a local and ignorant to the true nature of things. Kirk Rivers." The last he tacks on for Kirk's benefit so he thinks it was an introduction. Noting Kirk's interest in Arthur, "Evelyn was very fond of the irish wolf hound and was a champion breeder. I haven't found a truer friend. Though you wouldn't know it looking at him, he's growing a bit long in the tooth, himself. I was hoping to buy another animal from Evelyn and setting him to stud." Landon pauses at the last part and grows quiet with a mournful look.

Landon glances around and nods affirmatively to Kirk's question as he looks at the Gym in passing. "Well stocked. I'm glad Ellen found a good man to settle down with. She was quite the spitfire, if I remember. May I enquire what is it that you do--may I call you Kirk--Kirk?" Landon asks as he looks through his stored belongings.

If Landon doesn't find anything new he takes one or two things that would appear to have sentimental value. "I'm afraid that I wasn't expecting quite this much, and I don't currently have the means to transport it all. Any idea if Ellen will be back some time today? If not, perhaps I can write her a letter and leave it in the study...if it's still the study, that is. I would be more than happy to pay her for storage fees."

[Wired*Nun]

"Yeah, call me Kirk...Landon? Lan? That a British name? Not exactly settled, I'd say. International arbitration, she calls it. Goes all over the world, some corporation. Anyway, I keep the place up, provide her with a boyfriend on tap." Here he pauses, looks a little embarrassed. "I guess it's not that coldblooded, but I don't kid myself into thinking it's exclusive. Not with a woman like Ellen. It's good for her, good for me. I am what I am. I guess I hope she'll...pick me, if she ever picks anyone for good. If not...well, she pays me well enough, I'll have enough to buy a bar or something." He pulls out a key ring, opens the door to a walk-in closet.

"What I do is here, what you see. What I used to do..." he stops, turns to Landon to look in his eyes. "I used to do bad things to bad people." A corny line on anyone else, only from this man, Landon believes it. There's a core of ice, down there somewhere.

To Landon's question, he replies, "I think she'll be back Thursday. You're welcome to stay here if you'll be in town for a couple days. Or you can leave a letter or send her an e-mail or something. Computer is up and running downstairs. Storage fees? That a joke? What, you guys don't get along or something? Ellen's rich enough, she doesn't need your money I think. Hey, you want a beer?" He heads down the stairs, not looking to see if Landon is following.

[TreyKincaide]

"Named after the author." He repeats Lan a few times trying the name on for size and smiles. "Lan will be fine."

When Kirk turns Landon looks back and seems unfazed as only someone that has likewise done bad things can do.

"I'd love one. Maybe, we can set some water out for the dog? I'd prefer a letter, actually. I am, to my embarrassment, computer illerate. Unfortunately, we can't stay that long. We were in New York on business. Well business between pleasure if you catch my meaning." Landon says as he follows Kirk back downstairs. "Our flight leaves in the morning. My offer of payment was out of politeness. While we are amiable, it has been a long time since we've last spoken and I did not want to tread on her hospitality."

Landon and company follows Kirk to the kitchen. He catches a beer and takes a swig. "I guess you know you've been out of the country too long when you'd rather have American beer over import." He smiles and puts some water on the floor for Arthur. He asks a for a beer for Helena, and sits drinking chit chatting with Kirk about shooting, health, and the weather. When the beer is drained Landon speaks to Helena in Thari asking her "to take Arthur out" and to use the restroom before we go. Landon, in English, asks "While I'm writing the letter in the study would it be possible for Helena to walk the dog and freshen up afterwards in the bathroom for our long drive?"

[Wired*Nun]

" 'Course, man, whatever you need. Library is down the hall, on the right, there's a desk in there, paper and stuff. You probably already know that, nevermind." He turns to rummage in the fridge, and Landon notices an angular bulge in the small of his back, under his loose shirt. Armed, then, and routinely, it seems. I wonder where Arthur's cousins are? Did Flora give up on her hounds?

The question is answered by a growl and snap from outside the kitchen window. Outside, Arthur is facing down two stiff-legged wolfhounds, shielding Helena. Some canine exchange takes place, unheard through the double-pane, and then the dogs circle one another, sniffing noses and tails. It seems all is well with the world again.

The sound of Kirk at Landon's elbow startles him slightly. Was I woolgathering, or is he just quiet? "I would have been more suspicious of you without your dog. He's obviously one of Aunt Evelyn's bunch. Ellen said she wouldn't breed them the way Evelyn did, but feels an obligation to take care of the ones that are left. Guess Ellen just isn't home as much as her aunt was." He stares out the window at the windy overcast. "Good day to stay inside. You wanna stay overnight? You can pull that rig in here, and I do need to make sure that gate locks properly this time."

[TreyKincaide]

"Thanks." Landon heads down the hall and into the library. He pulls out a pen and paper from the desk.

Dearest Ellen,

I unfortunately missed you, however, I wanted you to know that your cousin, Landon, is still alive and kicking. Evelyn passing on is a tragic loss for this world. I owe her greatly for taking me in off the street, and she was the mother I didn't have. Believe that I am constantly aware of such even if events transpire that appear otherwise.

I'm not sure what remained unsaid between us, but I'm sure that somewhere she looks fondly upon me as I do unto her in spite of things that I have done and will do. I've spent many a tortured evening praying that is the case. However, when it came right down to it, I lost my faith and carried myself when God would not. I am a changed man, and doubt that you would recognize me after so long. Then again, perhaps, you would. I hear your brother has grown to bear a striking resemblance to me.

I did take the liberty of lessening your burden of caring for one of Evelyn's hounds. Kirk implied that your busy schedule keeps you unable to look after them in a way you found deserving, and my own, Arthur, is getting up there in years. I needed a litter. Enclosed is enough money to recompense you for the loss. Allowing this fine line to die out would be a travesty I'm sure you would agree.

I do not know when or if we shall meet again. I do hope that it occurs under favorable conditions, but circumstances weigh against such happenings. I wish you nothing but the best.

Sincerely,

Landon Flaumel


Letter written, Landon quickly searches the room hoping not to take too long. If anything catches his eye, he'll attempt to hide it on his person, before stepping out and seeing where Helen and Arthur have gotten off to.

[Wired*Nun]

Helena and Arthur are still in the vast back yard, the canines frolicking among the damp leaves. "Helloooo, there you are my love!" calls Helena as he emerges. "Looks like Arthur has found some playmates. Or should I say, a hareem! Two ladies, if I'm not mistaken." Through the window Landon can see Kirk sitting in front of a large television watching football. Oh, yeah, football...the simple life, beer and sports...mght be nice to come back and catch an Olympics again...

[TreyKincaide]

Landon tries to hide his disappointment that his search turned up little.

I suppose, if I'll eventually have to get it straight from the horse's mouth.

Landon grins, "Arthur's always been a lady's man. The scamp puts me to shame." He whistles for Arthur, and asks "Which of the two do you prefer? I told Flora that I was taking one not two. Unless they are the only two left, I'd rather not have to revise my letter."

After Arthur reponds, "We've been invited to stay the night. Is that what we want to do, or would the two of you prefer to head out presently.?"

If they want to stay, Landon'll nod and go watch football with Kirk after grabbing another beer. Otherwise, he'll make preparations to depart.

[Wired*Nun]

"They are the only two left, boss. Their human names are Shanna and Rinna, and they are both really happy to see me. Why do I have to choose only one? You know we canines don't have the same ideas you do about mono-... mono-... having only one mate."

Helena responds, "Oh, whatever you like, dear, as long as I'm with you!" Arthur gives a little whine, and says, "There are some really good woods to run in here...if you let us out the gate. They are locked in here."

[TreyKincaide]

"Well, who am I to break up a pair? It seems that I need to revise my letter, then. You also forget that monogamy didn't used to be in my vocabulary. I just didn't want to rob Flora of her companions. However, it seems she's too busy to continue breeding. I suppose we can give Shanna and Rinna a good home."

"I suppose then, we'll set out in the morning then." Landon lets the dogs out of the gate before he goes back inside to revise his letter. He'll take the oppurtunity to thoroughly search the study--the desk, the shelved books, etc. After which, he'll grab a beer and sit down beside Kirk. "Who's playing, and how are the Giants doing this year?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Hmpph, Giants...you don't follow football any more, do you? Don't worry, I won't tell your drinking buddies. I been Down There, I know no one cares about it except Americans." The conversation proceeds this way for a time, and Kirk eventually shows them a couple of guest rooms in the east wing.

"I get the master bedroom, part of the perks of sleeping with the boss. You guys have a good night. The code for the security system is 1132518, if you have to let the dogs out or something."

Shanna and Rinna sniff around everything, as if it is all new to them, and Landon hears Arthur say to them, "No mess inside! Outside grass only, human alpha rules. Obey!" "Yes yes," comes the reply from both of them. Normal dogs will take a little getting used to again. Kind of like two big children next to one adult. "Grovel Landon, pack alpha!" The two females come over and push their heads under Landon's hands, and lick his fingers. "Damn, boss, I almost feel funny acting like a canine again. I've gone native!" Kind of jarring to remember the patriarchal tendencies of most canid societies.

Fortunately there is a connecting door, so the dogs get one room, and the humans another. Three wolfhounds fit nicely on the bed, and Arthur gets the remote and channel-surfs until he finds Discovery Channel.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon nods. "I think if I ever see another soccer game, I'll scream." He watches the game, and then thanks Kirk when he leaves for the night.

Landon smiles with amusement as Arthur asserts his dominance over the two females. "I hope I haven't spoiled you for your own kind. I've always considered you a king amongst dogs." He leaves the door open between the two rooms and hands the remote to Helena as he sits down on the bed. "It's strange. I guess I've been around Arthur to long to remember what regular dogs act like." Landon undresses, however, not feeling entirely comfortable ensures that he's decent enough if he gets disturbed. He pulls the bag with Grayswandir close to the side of the bed, and soon dozes lightly while Helena plays with the TV.

[Wired*Nun]

The next morning is another wintry November day. A light dusting of snow is on the ground, and the hounds have already let themselves out to play in it. Helena can be heard humming in the bathroom, and the heating kicks on to take the chill out of the air. Ahh, the luxuries of technology.

Kirk has breakfast made already - apparently an early riser. "It's not much - pancakes are microwave." The New York Times sits on the table, inviting the illusion that everything is fine with the world, except for the usual wars and crises.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon dresses and thanks Kirk for the meal. He eats quickly before making preparations to leave.

[Wired*Nun]

The truck is still where he left it, refrigerator humming away.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon starts the engine to make sure it's running and puts the over night bag in the back. He goes back inside. "Thank you, Kirk, for everything. I'm afraid we need to make our delivery and catch our flight."

He whistles for Arthur and waits for the dogs to come running before turning to Kirk. "Now, who am I to break up such a lovely trio? We should only be so lucky." He says with a grin. "Since Ellen isn't planning on breeding them anymore and isn't around as much, I wrote explaining that I'd be happy to take them off her hands and compensate her. Arthur hasn't been this happy in a long time, and I could make sure they'd have a good home. It's the least I can do for Evelyn. I'd be a pity to see the line die off after all her hard work."

Depending on his response, Landon'll argue his case further or wave a fond farewell and hop into the truck with his wife and slightly larger family and start heading home. If it's the latter, Landon shifts first to a nearby shadow with empty roads, and persuades Helena to take a turn behind the wheel and tries to teach her to drive.

[Wired*Nun]

Starting Helena off on a heavily loaded truck seems to be a little too much for her. Though she is game for anything, Landon thinks that maybe a Honda Accord would be a better car to learn on, so he soon takes over the wheel again.

It's a little crowded in the cab, even putting the three hounds behind the seats in the sleeping nook. Still, it is a fun trip, even passing carefully through tech-friendly shadows.

Part of the way back, Landon starts to feel an influence on his shadowshifting. He's never felt this before, but it seems benign, assisting him in maintaining good roads without any difficulties. A tank of diesel and quick lunch at Kenni Roi's Kentucky Fried Lizard Partes gets them back on their way, and it is not long - surprisingly fast, in fact - before they are rolling in to their home in Rome.

The townspeople and children gather round to wonder at the strange magic chariot they drive, and everyone cheers as the noble couple get out and wave to the crowd. The dogs leap down and run around, barking and exploring everything, and Arthur leads his two new friends onto the mansion grounds to show them around.

"Well, the intrepid adventurers return," comes Corwin's voice from out of the crowd. He steps through the press and shakes Landon's hand. "Hope you had a good trip."

[TreyKincaide]

"Hello Corwin." Landon says as he returns the hearty hand shake. "Yes, the trip was wonderful. Although," Landon pauses as he glances in the direction that Arthur and company bounded off, "I think that Arthur came out the best in this little venture."

"Got everything you wanted plus extra for myself. The truck's packed pretty heavy."

[Wired*Nun]

"All right! Let's unload whatever you want to keep right away and then drive the rest over to Aurora, I have an ice cave set up there for everything." Going round to the back, he opens the truck and helps with whatever Landon wants to store at home. Townspeople are eager to help, and Landon finds himself supervising rather than working. Helena directs people at the reception end to pile the goods in the larder.

"Want to come with me? Or get settled back in and Trump me, either way. We need to set up the next foray."

[TreyKincaide]

"Tell ya' what. I'm going to take a trip to the bath house after everything's in order. Then I'll grab a bite to eat, and give you a ring."

After Corwin leaves Landon sets about to do just that.

[Wired*Nun]

Before he leaves, Corwin retrieves Grayswandir.

When Landon calls Corwin, he is standing, blade in hand, a light sheen of sweat on his brow. "Landon. Hope you are well and caught up on most everything. Ready to come on through? You might want to bring your hound, if you're willing to risk him."

Assuming he does, Landon finds himself on a flat patch of grass next to Aurora, with Corwin and - Merlin. They have obviously been working on their fencing. Merlin smiles and salutes with his blade. "Hello, Landon. You're coming up in the world."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon kisses Helena goodbye and calls Arthur to his side before extending his hand and allowing himself and his faithful hound to be pulled through.

Landon returns Merlin's smile and bows. "That is quite the compliment mighty King of Chaos. Although I'm not sure what warrants it as I'm little changed from our last meeting. Good to see you again by the way. How are things?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Here and there," he says. "Just warming up before my ordeal. By the way, thanks for making that run to Earth, I seldom have the opportunity anymore, and I miss certain things." He walks over to a cooler on the ground and pulls out an Anchor Steam, and sits down on a bench. "Grab a seat? Corwin wanted me to fill you in on some things, now that you're in on our little scheme." And didn't run away...

"You already know about the overarching reasons for doing what we're doing. I wanted to give you a few more concrete ones. My mother has turned out to be my main opposition at the Courts - or at least, the main instigator. After that dustup with Dara and Mandor, and the Logrus made its wishes felt, Mandor settled for being my second - and I think he got the better deal anyway. He's doing what I would rather be - handling things behind the scenes, doing what they call on Earth 'scientific research,' metaphysically speaking - and doing some dirty deeds that need to be done from time to time. Anyway, Dara is pushing for Hendrake, Helgram, Ashlurien, Chanicut, and several others, toward war with Amber. They want to reclaim some of the shadowlands by military means, and destroy broken Patterns directly. Unfortunately they only know one way to do that, which is by the blood of Amber. So, they need, willing or unwilling, those of Oberon's blood."

"If this happens, it will be very violent. It will do great damage to the shadows around and annhilate uncounted shadow dwellers. They don't mind, because they figure they will get to pick up the pieces afterwards, impose military law, exploit and rule. They want a militarized frontier in shadow, rather than the present more or less free access."

"I believe there is also someone in Amber working with them, someone willing to undermine Amber's interests in favor of Chaos. They may believe as we do, that they are only doing what needs to be done. Hell, that's no surprise. But our way causes minimum disruption, while their way is going to raise hell. Our way minimizes the chance of war with Amber, but their way courts it, pardon the pun."

"I hope you can see some of the implications of these things, and I hope you better understand why what you are doing is the right thing - or as right as we can figure out. Of course, now that you're a part of it, you have a say in it." He looks at Landon expectantly.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon pauses for a moment grabbing a beer out of the cooler allowing his features show that he's thinking before speaking.

"One man's right is another man's treason. I have assured Corwin that I agree thus far and I'll likewise assure you. I'm in until I'm given reason not to be."

"I know you have a better head for metaphysical things as well as an understanding of your mother's motivations where as I do not. If you say that our way is better then I have little reason to doubt you. With that said, I have watched the progress of the shadow we targetted first. The damage appears to be minimal, in fact looks beneficial, but I have no way of looking at the larger picture."

"My only concern would be that the damage they cause added to our own will unbalance things even further and put Amber at a significant disadvantage. This Maze trouble and even moreso the attack on the family itself publicly and easily bypassing all of Fiona's defences shows how unstable things really are. However, I assume that you have spies amongst their number to keep tabs on your hawks' activities."

"Rather than attack Amber directly they hope to kick the pillars out from below and bring the conflict into Shadow moving inch by inch. We can't attack the problem directly as it will look bad upon you and give your hawks the martyr they crave to draw more to their banner. Thus our only means of combatting them is to give them what they wish in a way they do not, if I have the right of it."

He sighs. "Until a more permanent solution is found this one will have to suffice. I would ask if our," he slightly stresses the word, "works will give them easier purchase to establish their martial front. They will have greater ease of traveling as the balance shifts. For our sakes, I would hope that we find the permanent answer to our problems as soon as possible although I don't profess to know how to go about such means."

[Wired*Nun]

"You make some good points, I can't deny. We're only doing what we believe is the least among evils. And yes, we are trying to remove their - what's it called, dad? - raison de guerre? - and prevent that war. Barring that, to ride the tiger, control it the best we can."

A circle of light rolls off the rim of one of the Chevy's tires, and hops up to hover near Merlin. "Houston, we have a problem," comes a voice that sounds a lot like Merlin's.

"Never should have given him that 'Apollo 13' DVD," says Merlin. "What is it, Ghost?"

"I have a report that Chaos troops are attacking the Keep of the Four Worlds. I had a terminal to Mandor already open so he is already informed, then I came straight here. I don't know what it means, or what to do. What side are we on here?"

Corwin seems about to speak, but bites his tongue. Funny relationship - Corwin with his pocket universe, Merlin the King of Chaos... Merlin does instead, after furrowing his brow.

"Well, first, if it's Chaos troops, I didn't approve it, so we're automatically opposing any abuse of power, or infringement on my foreign policy perogatives. Until we get it sorted out, we support the status quo, which is Jasra, and by default, Dunstan if she's incapacitated. If it's our Hendrake faction, they seem to be picking an odd target, so maybe they know something we don't, which is all the more reason to stop this thing. The fact that I am here when this happened also means I have to be careful when I return, lest they have staged a coup in the Courts as well. We need to take control of events." He stands, reaching into a pocket and pulls out two rings, placing one on each hand.

"Merlin...are you sure you don't want to do it now, before events overtake you?" Corwin asks.

"No, since we're not entirely sure what the effect of the new imprint would be. I'd hate to go into a tough situation with any sort of disruption to my own personal powers. I think I ought to go now. What will you two be doing?"

"You heading back to Chaos or to the Keep?"

"Well, it wouldn't do for the King to be messing around on the front lines, not while things might be iffy back home. Tell Coral I'm sorry, I'll see her next time. You wanna stick your oar in at the Keep?"

"As you say," Corwin replies with a grimace, "I have to stay and defend the center. Landon, are you up for a fight?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon tips his bottle drinking it down until it's empty. He sets it on the bench as he stands and stretches while answering.

"I'm game. It seems that my part in this little cabal is to do the things that my two friends would if they didn't have more pressing responsibilites," Landon says with a grin.

"I don't have time to assemble or march an army so my own talents will have to suffice. I have a question that I need answered before you use whatever means you have at your disposal to get me there quickly. How visible should I be? If I'm to provide discrete aid then I need to know the magical particulars before I get there. If I'm to be in the thick of things, I could use a serviceable weapon."

After hearing their answers Landon looks at Corwin. "Corwin, could you update Helena and let her know that I'll be out for a spell as well as keep an eye on Arthur's 'playmates.'" He glances down at Arthur for a second before looking back. "It's not hard to guess where I 'appropriated' them from. I haven't had time to break their former master's conditioning; I worry about leaving them alone with my wife for an extended period of time. Providing that you're not busy and want to start working on that while Arthur and I am away I'd appreciate it." He trails off.

With that being said and his questions answered, Landon prepares himself for whatever way they choose to send him into the thick of things.

[Wired*Nun]

"I'm game. It seems that my part in this little cabal is to do the things that my two friends would if they didn't have more pressing responsibilites," Landon says with a grin.

Merlin laughs. "Now you're catching on, we're vicariously reliving our youth through you. No kidding, though, I'd rather be with you than doing what I'm doing. Damn, just when I thought I'd get a few moments' peace. Ghost, take me back to Mandorways, then we'll see what my brother knows. Landon, Corwin." The bright circle goes up and drops over him like curtain of light, and he is gone.

With a flourish, Corwin resheathes Grayswandir and hands it to Landon. "This should do, against Chaos or mortal flesh. You will be on your own, do what you think is best, but in my opinion, Merlin was right. The Keep should stay in independent hands, rather than either Chaos or Amber. It's a unique power center, and if it is connected to the Maze, all the more reason not to let it fall into Hendrake hands. They will perceive you as either Amberite, or independent, or connected with me, all of which are basically fine, as long as they don't think you are working for Merlin. I'll take care of Helena and the wolfhounds. I'm familiar with Flora's creatures, I can tweak them a little to guarantee complete loyalty to you, Helena and Arthur here. Don't worry. Ready?"

Assuming assent, Corwin opens his hands, and Landon gets the impression of a glowing red ball of yarn which engulfs him and Arthur, transporting and depositing them on the mountainside overlooking the keep. Two hundred yards below, Landon can see mailed warriors coming through a Trump gate, exiting fast and moving down the mountain trail to assemble at the foot of the mountain, near the keep. There are at least half a thousand already there.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon pauses momentarily to survey the scene and devise a strategy.

Hmmmm. I seem to be in both an advantageous and disadvantageous position. I'm out behind the enemy forces, but I won't be distinguishable from such by those in the Keep so I must keep my distance. When I make my move I'll need to be wary of archers. I have the high ground for the moment and that'll make melee to my advantage.

Landon looks around for anything that might present itself for cover.

First things first. I need to knock out their supply line even if it's only temporary and they happen to have alternate Trumps. Can't use sorcery. Not enough time. I wonder how well that gate will function under tons of rock. At the very least it'll be quite the surprise.

Landon's pensive features change. His mouth curls upward into a nasty grin as Arthur and him look for a way to start an avalache hoping to bury the lot.

[Wired*Nun]

Pacing back and forth, Landon spots a likely stretch of overhang, the best he can do. It should cause some disruption, though this mountainside is green with grass and scattered trees which limit the avalance possibilities.

Laying his will upon the shadow, he enhances the probabilities of a fall, working his way toward the hanging rocks over some minutes time. When he think he has it set, he reaches down, sets his legs, and heaves a boulder of several hundred pounds rolling down the hill to impact exactly where he wants it.

The overhang slips sideways as the rock shears away, and ten tons or so of rock, tree and dirt fall down an hundred feet to cover the Trump gate. It winks out as soon as the mass hits it, and a dozen or so troops fail to dodge and are bowled over, covered or swept away.

Crouching down, Landon studies the scene for his next move.

The fighters below him look upward, and one yells an order to others. A squad of six breaks off and heads up the hillside, crossbows in hands and swords at their sides, heading for the point below him where the slide started. The rest of the couple of dozen or so troops form a perimiter around a couple of leaders. One of those is clearly a woman, dressed in hues of gold and brown, and she is sorting through some kind of pages or - Trumps? Sure. Must be the VIP. The rest are just fodder. Might be a good time to go work out the magic of this shadow.

Landon looks around, and spots a trail heading to his left and upward, around an outcropping, which would hide him from view.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon backs away from the edge as he slowly makes his way up the small trail to his left.

Who do I know that favors gold and brown? No matter, I'm sure I'll find out soon enough. If her creatures are of chaos, they might be sensitive to Pattern manipulations. No matter, I don't have time to do things the normal way.

As Landon moves, he works his will upon shadow again increasing the likelihood that he'll happen upon the correct lynchpin with only a few tries. He hides behind the useful outcropping hoping that the small trail will limit the 6 man squad's ability to rush him should they get here before he's done. "Keep a nose out," he says to Arthur as he gets to work.

[Wired*Nun]

It's only a few moments to work out the magic of this shadow - it seems to be an easy-magic shadow. No one comes up after him, and Arthur creeps around the outcropping and reports, "They're looking around the place where the slide started, but they don't seem to know we're here."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon stands and quietly answers Arthur. "Good, this is a pretty defensive position so we'll camp for a bit until they go away or are forced to follow the path this way."

It should force them into melee and make their crossbows worthless while making sure the six together can't overwhelm us. I can teleport elsewhere if we're forced to retreat further. We can do the most good at the moment by harrying them and keeping their supply lines cut off.

Landon draws Grayswandir from its sheath and presses against the rock outcropping waiting for the possible conflict to come to him.

[Wired*Nun]

"It looks like the scouts have rejoined the main body and they are moving down the mountainside. What's our next move, Boss?"

before Landon can answer, the shock of an explosion shakes the air. Around the curve of the rock Landon can see dust, smoke and debris in the air around the gate of the Keep, which is off its hinges, open. The troops immediately begin double-timing in good order toward the open gate. Five hundred soldiers are going to play hell with the defense of the Keep, if they can get inside...

One of the wyverns, having dropped off its aerial-assault troops, lands near the battalion, and the woman leaps aboard. It turns and begins to gain altitude.

[TreyKincaide]

"I guess I have no choice but to stop them. I was hoping not to have to use my fallback spell as I'll be worn out, but it looks like that's the only option."

Landon sighs. "Damn I hate using this spell." He mutters calling the Pattern Lens to mind. "Let's hope that she's so focused on the the Keep that I can slip this by."

Landon starts muttering the lynchpins to the least used spell in his arsenal--Come on Baby Light My Fire. He has a bit of time to figure out the specifics. He intends on trying to dispatch the 500 soldiers at once. He doesn't try to include the Chaos lord in the area of effect. He leaves the portal open for no more than a second.

[Wired*Nun]

A sun-bright pinprick in the fabric of reality apears in the midst of the charging troops. The near-simultaneous ignition of everything flammable within an hundred feet is followed closely by the explosion of superheated water vapor in the bodies of Landon's victims. Scorched earth is too kind a term for what just happened in front of the gate.

The shockwave blows past Landon in a gale, with a roaring like a jetliner and the heat of a furnace. He turns his back to the scene, squinting his eyes while Arthur crouches in the lee of the rock. When all the sound and fury are over, Landon and Arthur look upon a scene of carnage. Not a soldier is moving on the battlefield. "Remind me not to get you mad at me, boss," says Arthur drily. "But I hope you have another trick up your sleeve - that flying thing is coming."

Arthur is right. The woman in gold has turned her flying beast and it is coming his way - fast. Landon doesn't doubt she has it in for him.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon's dark grin curls downward into a stoic frown while his mind races searching for his next move.

Can't think about the destruction I've caused. Later. Not now. Focus.

His glance darts to the woman in gold when Arthur calls his attention. He doesn't respond as he studies his opponent.

Not a sound tactical decision. Your objective is the Keep. Is anger clouding your judment, or are you removing a thorn from your side before continuing? I wouldn't make a suicide run on someone that single-handedly killed my army. Either way, I can't leave yet--not until I know the Keep is in no danger of falling. She doesn't need to know that, though. Discretion is the better part of valor after all. I'll have to time this just right. And for my next amazing trick...

Landon bends down grasping Arthur in his hands his eyes locked on the approaching beast. He looks through his Pattern Lens and begins speaking the words to loose his bound incantation, These Boots Are Made For Walking, from the stasis of Order that he locked it in long ago in another time in another place. He holds his destination in mind as he describes the hidden alcove behind the rock precipace up the path from their current location that Arthur and him recently used to hide. Landon tries to time his spell so neither rider nor monster will be able to pull out of their rapid decent crashing into the space where he used to be. Should he get to safety, he'll draw Grayswandir and peek around the rock ledge.

[Wired*Nun]

The flying creature and its rider swoop low over the pair, but the creature does not stoop to attack. Rather, it looks like they are making a spotting run before doing anything. Prepared with the teleport spell, Landon can't do anything but watch as they fly quickly past.

The wyvern climbs in its turn, getting a better angle and a moderate height to observe Landon. A moment later, the Pattern lens gives him an instant's warning as a shadow hole begins to open scant yards above his head.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon's grip on Arthur tightens as he lurches forward. He spits out the lychpins to the spell trying to get away from the Shadow opening. If he needs to, he launches himself off the cliff side to buy himself more time to finish his spell.

Stupid. Should have guessed she was a sorceror, and a better one than me I'd wager.

[Wired*Nun]

Leaping off the mountainside, Landon buys himself enough time not to die. The molten lava slams down where he was standing, and the heat and droplets of liquid rock sear the clothing and the skin off his back. Arthur yelps in pain as well, and they both appear a little ways up the mountainside and scramble into the lee of the rock before they are seen. The smoke, steam and ash provide them some welcome cover as it drifts upward with the breeze.

Looking at Arthur, Landon can see his hindquarters covered in third-degree burns. Charred hair and flesh crack, bleeding, and Arthur pushes his head unto Landon's chest, whimpering, "Hurts..." Oh, gods, this is bad...but at least we're alive. Landon realizes that his own back and legs must be just as bad, but the shock hasn't really worn off. There are strips of pain running around the edges of the burns, and it is hurting more and more by the second. If this keeps up I'll be unable to function pretty soon.

Trump contact... Feast or famine...

[TreyKincaide]

Landon gnashes his teeth as his vision blurs from the pain. He holds off the contact long enough for him to try to feebly pull out Corwin's Trump. If the pouch was consumed in the attack, he relents and accepts the call. Otherwise, he concentrates with all he has left on Corwin hoping that he'll respond. Failing that he'll likewise accept the call.

I zigged when I should have zagged. I'm sorry Arthur. I'm sorry.

[Wired*Nun]

Thumbing out Corwin's Trump, he reaches for contact. A strange, dichotomous feeling passes as he gets an impression of a little girl - Gray? calling for him. Landon...Landon! Are you there??? Tell Corwin... before the contact resolves into Corwin. He comes to his feet as he senses Landon's distress. "Come on through, Landon, you look like crap."

[TreyKincaide]

"No shit" is all that he can mutter before he grasps the outstretched hand and clutches to conciousness long enough to be pulled through before surrendering to sweet oblivion.

[Wired*Nun]

A long blackness of unconsciousness finally comes to an end. Landon isn't certain he's really awake, until he is. He's looking at Arthur, covered in bandages, an IV in his foreleg, asleep. Come to think of it, he's looking at Arthur from a funny angle - from above, since Arthur is on a mattress on the floor..

Lying on his stomach, head over the edge of the bed, Landon can feel the dull throbbing of his burns, and realizes that he has his own IV in his left arm. Probably doped up for a while...where am I? The answer isn't long in coming, as he twists his head at the sound of footsteps. Helena...

"Good afternoon, husband. Lord Corwin has told me you were injured fighting bravely for his cause." She sits down on a low stool next to Arthur, who wakes up enough to thump his tail twice. Putting her head close to his, she kisses him on his thankfully unburned lips, tenderly. She's holding back tears...brave girl...

"Thank you for coming back to me," she whispers. "I could never live without you." She rests her head on his shoulder, cheek to cheek, and now she doesn't hold back her tears. "I love you, Landon."

[TreyKincaide]

"I love you too, Helena," he says as he kisses her fiercely. "How's Arthur doing, and how long have I been out?"

Gray wanted something. I'm not sure what. It might be important, but I don't want her to see me weak like this. I'm alive but just barely.

Landon lets Helena have her moment before asking a favor. "Dear, could you relay a message to Corwin for me? My sister called and wanted me to relay something to him, but it cut off. I don't know if it's important, but I'm not calling her back in my current state. What he wishes to do in that regards is up to him, but I'd advise that he keep a dagger handy in case it's a trick of some sort. Other than that, I'll report later."

Landon convalesces.

[Wired*Nun]

"It's been a day and a night since Lord Corwin brought you here. Arthur is doing fine, but the physician has been giving him opiates to keep him asleep against the pain - as you were until now. I have had to keep the two bitches away, they want to be with Arthur but the physician said no, they might disturb him. I will tell Lord Corwin what you say. I am sure he will know what to do. I will be back in a moment."

Returning a little later, after her call to Corwin, she sits with him, talks with him, tends to his hurts, feeds him. It takes several days, but Amberite constitution turns what would be a three month process for an ordinary human into a week or so for Landon. At that point, he is up and around, his legs and lower back a mass of scars, which he knows will eventually fade. The first time he can join Helena in their bed is more heaven than any IV opiate could be. No word from Corwin comes, though. Must be in fast-time...

[TreyKincaide]

Landon spares no time once he is no longer bed ridden. Having been in frail conditions in the past, he returns to a grueling regimen of food, physical therapy, and excercise until he's content that he's once again in fighting form. He stops in to see Arthur daily personally attending to his friend's needs. More than ever, he's thankful for his time with Helena and tries to make the most of it. He'll take the oppurtunity to rerack his used spells before trying to get a hold of Corwin after slowing time back down to report.

[Wired*Nun]

Before he can really begin his rehabilitation, Corwin comes to visit. "Good to see you up and around. Say, I have had an...interesting call. How would you like to visit your sister and father? I know, that's a wierd thing to say, but...I think you should. This Eric is, I think, a ghost Dworkin evoked from the Primal Pattern. As such, it should be much more real than the Eric I built. In fact, it - he - should have all your father's memories and personality, modified by whatever Dworkin tweaked. Agraynel is...regressed, I'm guessing. I remember her as being older, and I know she can change shapes, so I'm thinking that with her mind regressed to childhood, her body followed suit...for a while. And Dworkin wants to see Coral and the Jewel...so I'd like you there as well because it may have something to do with our plans, and you're part of that. I have to go whether you come or not."

"I told them to be prepared for wife and dogs, too, if you want to bring them along. If the answer is yes, we can be ready in a couple of hours. If no, then I'll be taking my leave of you then, and would trouble you to move in to my house and help guard Aurora."

[TreyKincaide]

"I must admit that I'm curios and long for the chance to speak with a more accurate version of someone I've only known second hand. I'm also wondering about what exactly Gray got herself into this time. I would like to go if you believe that Aurora will be fine in our absence. I don't think Arthur's up for a trip yet. I'm not in the finest form myself, but I'll live. Perhaps the best idea would to have Helena and the dogs moved to your place for mutual protection?"

[Wired*Nun]

"All right. I have a couple more resources to help guard things, if I need them. I'll make the arrangements. Take a couple of hours, say your au revoirs, then call me on Trump and you can bring them all through, and we'll depart from there. See you then." After any reply, he walks back out the gate and fades from view.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon finds his wife, "Dear, I'm going to accompany Corwin and Coral to see my sister. I promise that I'll return better this time than last. I always get home regardless. Corwin and I think it'd be better for you and the dogs to stay at his place while we're gone so that you and the Pattern are safer in our absence. Arthur isn't up for a long trip otherwise I'd have the lot of you come with us."

If his wife argues Landon relents and lets her and the dogs to come along. He makes his preparations that aren't quite formal as one would expect and gives Corwin a call.

[Wired*Nun]

Helena doesn't argue. She trusts his judgment, and perhaps his wounds have sobered her a bit.

Bringing the whole lot through, Corwin and Coral show them around the house, and gets them set up. "Now Arthur, don't let your girls chew up my good boots," he says with a laugh. To Helena and Arthur, he says, "I'd like to introduce you to someone. This is Luke," he says, indicating a boyish fellow with sandy-red hair and a big smile. "He used to be a Pattern-ghost of Rinaldo of Kashfa. Now, he's his own man, and he helps me protect Aurora. He will also guard you."

Turning back to Landon, he says, "Merlin tells me that there is no coup nor development at the Courts; the attack on the Keep looks to be an isolated attempt, probably hastily perpetrated by the Hendrakes but eminently deniable. It looks like Dara isn't ready to make her real move yet. I am interested to find out what triggered it. From what you told me, it didn't seem very well-planned. Not like Hendrake at all. Perhaps it's some rogue element."

After last goodbyes, Corwin shuffles out a long-disused Trump. The big, bearded man on the face seems to be laughing at them as he holds it up for Landon to look at. "Here we go..."

The contact takes along time, whether from distance or differing timestreams, but finally, they are looking at the visage of Landon's father, just as he remembers him so long ago - but never known as such. Reaching through without a word, he pulls Corwin and Landon through into Dworkin's firelit study, and clasps hands with Corwin, then Landon. He looks as if he would hug Landon, but is unsure of what reaction to expect.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon extends his hand with a wry grin. When Eric accepts it, he clasps him on the shoulder. "I've been through this once before, you see." he says quietly. He pulls this new Eric closer in a careful embrace. His stiff movements betray his recent injuries and the lessening pains that linger. "We have much to talk about you and I, but that can wait. It's been some time since I've seen my little sister..."

[chalice]

"I'm not that little!" says an indignant voice from the other side of the room, where a small dark-haired girl, seeming around ten years of age, bounces out of the armchair she was curled up in.

"Hullo, Landon! Look - I'm a snow angel!" She spins round, inviting admiration of the white-feathered wings that sweep from her tiny shoulders to the ground, sparkling slightly.

A little shyly, she joins Landon, Coral, Corwin and Eric, holding both hands out hopefully to each of the newcomers for a hug. "Poor Landon - does it hurt very much? Shall I make it go away?"

Then, anxiously, "Where's Arthur? Is he all right?" Her face falls. "Landon, I'm veryverysorry I shouted at you before. Will you be friends again?"

[TreyKincaide]

"Hullo, Landon! Look - I'm a snow angel!" She spins round, inviting admiration of the white-feathered wings that sweep from her tiny shoulders to the ground, sparkling slightly.
"So, I see and a very good one too, I'd imagine," he grins jovially. At the young girl's outstretched hands he allows her to come closer, but doesn't pick her up. He bends stiffly placing his hands on her shoulders welcoming an embrace. Where there should be supple flesh beneath his loosely fitting clothes, Gray feels hardened sinew and knotted scar tissue running up and down his backside.

"It's nothing that a good couple of weeks on a hearty diet and a strenuous regimen of excercise won't fix. Sometimes painful lessons can be important ones. I do thank you for the offer, though." His smile falls. "Arthur is still pretty hurt. He doesn't heal as fast as you or me. He's still asleep from the medicine, and I didn't want to move him."

Will you be friends again?
Landon's smile returns. "Of course, you'll find that family can be forgiven of almost anything."

As evidenced by the Ghost and Corwin making amends. Both used the chance that neither got during Eric's life to come to some accord or so it seems. A great weight seems to have lifted off of Corwin's shoulders and the only time I've seen him as happy was around his son.

[chalice]

"It's nothing that a good couple of weeks on a hearty diet and a strenuous regimen of excercise won't fix. Sometimes painful lessons can be important ones. I do thank you for the offer, though." His smile falls. "Arthur is still pretty hurt. He doesn't heal as fast as you or me. He's still asleep from the medicine, and I didn't want to move him."
"All right," Gray accepts Landon's decision readily, although with a child's instinct for finding a weak spot, she adds "If you wanted me to come back with you, I could make Arthur better. If - you know - if you wanted me..."

Please want me...


Landon's smile returns. "Of course, you'll find that family can be forgiven of almost anything."

As evidenced by the Ghost and Corwin making amends. Both used the chance that neither got during Eric's life to come to some accord or so it seems. A great weight seems to have lifted off of Corwin's shoulders and the only time I've seen him as happy was around his son.
Little Gray seems to follow his direction of thought, if not its depth, and looks over at the two brothers with a smile that lights up her whole face - the smile Landon remembers seeing just once before now seems ready to appear at a moment's notice.

"Isn't it good? They don't hate each other anymore. And I don't hate them for making me sick, 'cause they didn't mean it." She laughs, spinning round again, arms wide. "I don't hate anybody! Even Random," she finishes generously, though not entirely convincingly.

Coming to a stop, she reaches out to touch Landon's injured arm gently. "I can't imagine what it would be like to heal so slowly. It must hurt so much. You're ever so brave, Landon." She looks up at him admiringly. Sibling hero-worship? Is that a first in this family?

"I told Daddy you were. Quick pain isn't so bad...it hurt when I fell off the Pattern but not for so very long...

"I like your hair. And I'm really, really glad you're all right. I tried to come and look for you after we met Rebis, but Mandor had Ghostwheel take us to Chaos instead." A faint shadow touches the bright young face, then is resolutely dismissed. "He was nice. He gave me biscuits and put a spell in my head."

[TreyKincaide]

"It doesn't hurt as much as knowing that Arthur's in pain because of a mistake I made. I'd appreciate it if you'd help him out, if it's okay with your daddy."

Landon arches an eyebrow when she mentions falling off the Pattern. "You seem have had quite the adventure. I'd love to hear all about it."

[chalice]

"All right. But then I want to know all about what's been happening to you, 'kay?"

She thinks for a moment. "Well..." she launches happily into a ten-year-old's version of her experiences since Landon disappeared [as per the threads].

"...and then I wasn't dead, and I was here, and Dworkin told me-" she falters for the first time, the shadow back in her face. She looks over at Eric, and lowers her voice. "He told me the reason I was still...sick...wasn't Uncle Corwin's Curse at all. It was Daddy's. See, he cursed the bad Chaos people, but I'm kind of like them...a lot...so I got sicker..." she blinks hard, lips trembling.

"He didn't mean it though. H-he wouldn't hurt me ever, not on purpose. But the others were all scared so they shut up and went away, and now I'm just me. And I'm going to get all better!

"And Daddy was sad, so I told him about you and it made him really happy!" she adds, smugly.

"Tell me about you and Arthur now?"

[Wired*Nun]

The Eric and Corwin whisper quietly near the fire, like the couple of conspirators they always were. Only conspiring with each other is new. Dworkin for his part has perched on a barstool and is surveying the scene like a proud grandfather, which isn't so far off. Coral is standing at Corwin's elbow, eye flicking alterately from the Eric to the youngers to Dworkin, as if wondering what is in store for her. They all seem content to let the sibling reunion run its course, restoring, in some small measure, this one big happily disfunctional family.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon launches into a slightly exaggerated "G" version of things that happened to him to since he last saw her. Corwin imprisoning him changes into Corwin saving him from a monster in a cave, anything regarding destroying Patterns is left out, as well as where exactly he was when he was hurt.

[chalice]

Gray drinks it all in, and demands to be told the details of Landon and Helena's wedding at least twice over.

"She sounds nice. Will I meet her later? She'll be my sister!"

She bites her lip. "I - um - I do know what you're doing, Landon. And it's alright," she looks up at him earnestly, "Dworkin explained why it's a good thing, like not wanting rabbits everywhere, though I still wish there wouldn't be a war..."

She looks curiously over at Coral. "Who is the lady, Landon? She's pretty!"

[Wired*Nun]

Since "discreet whisper" isn't generally in any 10-year-old's vocabulary, Coral hears Gray ask that question. Seeing Landon's hesitation, she steps gingerly through the bric-a-brac and addresses Gray quietly. "My name is Coral. I'm one of your aunts."

[chalice]

"Hullo, Aunt Coral," says Gray, politely. Then, manners set aside in favour of curiosity:"Why are you wearing that?" she indicates Coral's eyepatch. "Did you get burned too?"

[Wired*Nun]

"No, Grandpa Dworkin lent me his magical eye for a while...but I think he might want it back," she says, glancing quizzically at Dworkin.

He smiles a toothy grin through his beard. "Damn right I do, dearie. Certain things got to be done, from time to time. My turtle needs a tune-up. Let's go get that out of the way...come sit in my dentist's chair, would you?" He waves her down the hall, and after smiling nervously at Gray, Coral says, "Well, I guess I have to give it back. I'll see you in a little while, all right?" Heading down the hall, she rubs nervously at the eye patch, then turns a corner.

[chalice]

"See you later..." Gray waves to Coral and Dworkin as they leave, staring after them with lively curiosity.

A moment later, she wanders over to tug at Eric's sleeve.

"Daddy, when Landon goes back, can we go too, so I can make Arthur better? Please?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon simply nods with a smile, "I'm glad Dworkin explained our important work."

Landon glances to Coral as she's led away and turns a somewhat questioning glance towards Corwin before finding himself a seat at the table. He eases himself down with some care.

[Wired*Nun]

"Well, Gray, that's not exactly up to me...Corwin? She really could heal him, I think."

"Of course," says Corwin. "She can visit any time, as far as I am concerned, but it's Landon's home now. It's really up to him." All this buck-passing is starting to make Gray dizzy.

"And what important work is that, Landon?" the Eric says. Corwin steps back casually behind the other man and gives Landon an emphatic wave-off.

[chalice]

Landon glances to Coral as she's led away and turns a somewhat questioning glance towards Corwin before finding himself a seat at the table. He eases himself down with some care."Landon, " Gray frowns at him. "I do love you but I think you are very, very silly not to let me help you get better. You let the doctor help. You helped me lots of times, like in the Tower and when I ran away...and now you won't let me pay you back..."

With her hands on her hips and wings spread slightly in irritation, she looks like a cross cherub.

"...how come you'll let a stranger help you but not me?" Her face falls. "Is it because the Gift comes from Chaos?"


"And what important work is that, Landon?" the Eric says. Corwin steps back casually behind the other man and gives Landon an emphatic wave-off.Gray's puzzled gaze moves between the three men, as she senses some change in the previously-friendly atmosphere. Then she tugs at her father's sleeve again until he comes down to her level, wraps her arms round his neck and whispers something in his ear as quietly as she can:

"It's a secret, Daddy. Tell you later. Don't get mad at Landon, please."

Hoping to distract him, she says aloud, "Daddy - Landon got married! And - guess what? - Helena's going to have puppies!"

[Wired*Nun]

"Well, won't that surprise the midwife," Corwin says drily. The Eric's furrowed brow says that, though he might have let it slide, this won't be the end of his inquiry.

Stepping around Eric, Corwin takes Landon's elbow in an iron grip and steers him out of earshot. "That's a Primal Pattern ghost you're talking to, man. Think!"

The Eric looks at Gray and says, "That's nice news, honey, really. I'd love to meet his new wife...and her puppies too!" He taps her on the end of the nose gently and says, "Beep! Puppies are fun, aren't they? But," and he looks at her earnestly, "even puppies have to grow up sometime."

He brightens, as if changing subjects, and reaches up to take down the Trump of Gray that Dworkin set up high earlier, handing it to her. "What do you think of that?"

[chalice]

Gray takes the card and studies it again.

"I'm going to grow up to be her," she decides. "Like I should have. I love you, daddy."

Still staring at the ever-shifting but true image, Gray lets her small, safe form blur and change, growing taller and older, wings disappearing last of all as her form resolves into that of a slender young woman who gives Eric a smile that is sweet but sad at the same time.

"Hullo, father."

Her expression grows wistful: "Except you aren't, really, are you?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Hullo, yourself." The Eric reaches out to brush a wisp of hair back over her ears. "That depends on what you mean really means. I'm not flesh and blood like you, but some people wouldn't consider you a real person because of your lineage. I have a mind from Eric, a kind of body from the Pattern, and blood from Dworkin. That makes me pretty real...at least, it feels that way to me. If you want flesh and blood...maybe you can ask Dworkin. He has a way of coming up with the impossible."

Drawing her down with him into the chairs by the fire, he keeps hold of Gray's hand and looks at her earnestly. "I'm not so foolish as to believe everything is all right...that you're all right, in one short day. I know it will take time. Well, time is all I've got. I have no ambition, other than to fix what I did wrong before. But I think, sometime, there will be a price for this. I'm not sure how, or who will be asking for payment. I just know...I know, deep in my, ha, my bones, that there is always a price for miracles, and the free ones are always the most expensive."

[TreyKincaide]

((this is what I get for sleeping in. Falling wayyyyy behind.))

"...how come you'll let a stranger help you but not me?" Her face falls. "Is it because the Gift comes from Chaos?"No, you'll help me by helping Arthur. It's not right for me to get fixed before he does. Since I'm at fault, that hurts more than any scarring. Tell you what. After you heal him, you can heal me so we're both better.

"And what important work is that, Landon?" the Eric says. Corwin steps back casually behind the other man and gives Landon an emphatic wave-off.
...Stepping around Eric, Corwin takes Landon's elbow in an iron grip and steers him out of earshot. "That's a Primal Pattern ghost you're talking to, man. Think!"
Before Landon can answer and assuage the Pattern Ghost, he allows Corwin to rudely drag him away. He frowns. "I am thinking and I'm well aware of his state of being," Landon whispered stiffly in forced tones. "I could have rattled off some rote about fighting the spreading forces of Chaos--not a lie in itself--to satisfy his curiosity if I wasn't interrupted. As it is now, his suspicions are aroused. I'm astounded that after everything I've done, your faith in me is questionable. How much more must I bleed in your name before you treat me as the friend and fellow conspirator you claimed you desired? How can we continue if you do not trust my judgment older brother?"

[chalice]

No, you'll help me by helping Arthur. It's not right for me to get fixed before he does. Since I'm at fault, that hurts more than any scarring. Tell you what. After you heal him, you can heal me so we're both better.
Gray considers. "Alright - that's fair. I didn't think of it that way." And - easy as that - Landon has a happy cherub again.

[chalice]

Drawing her down with him into the chairs by the fire, he keeps hold of Gray's hand and looks at her earnestly. "I'm not so foolish as to believe everything is all right...that you're all right, in one short day. I know it will take time. Well, time is all I've got. I have no ambition, other than to fix what I did wrong before. But I think, sometime, there will be a price for this. I'm not sure how, or who will be asking for payment. I just know...I know, deep in my, ha, my bones, that there is always a price for miracles, and the free ones are always the most expensive."
Gray turns the Trump one way and another with her free hand, watching the image shift. "Yes," she agrees softly. "She's still more of a - an aspiration, I suppose. But it helps to know she might exist, someday. I hope we both get to meet her.

"I'll do my best to help you with what you came for, though I'm not sure where to begin. I met someone - someone from Chaos - who said he could help me with my own difficulties, and I was thinking of accepting the offer." And maybe Chaos is where I belong...?

"But that was before you...arrived."

She smiles at him gently.

"You really are a miracle, for me. I'll pay for you gladly."

[Wired*Nun]

(( I'm astounded that after everything I've done, your faith in me is questionable. How much more must I bleed in your name before you treat me as the friend and fellow conspirator you claimed you desired? How can we continue if you do not trust my judgment older brother?"
"I'm talking to you this way precisely because I'm treating you as an equal. If you want to play those old games of pride, Amber's just up the road. I've opted out of all that. The fates of worlds hang in the balance here. I'm not giving you orders, I'm pointing out that you're playing fast and loose with all of us - me, Coral, you, Helena, Merlin, and others I care about. That's not your call, not without discussing it first. Whatever this ghost learns, the Primal learns, and if it feels its survival threatened, anyone not specially protected could be in a world of hurt."

[Wired*Nun]

"I'll do my best to help you with what you came for, though I'm not sure where to begin. I met someone - someone from Chaos - who said he could help me with my own difficulties, and I was thinking of accepting the offer." And maybe Chaos is where I belong...?

"But that was before you...arrived."

She smiles at him gently.

"You really are a miracle, for me. I'll pay for you gladly."
"Well, I'm glad that's settled, for now. Chaos can wait. Maybe you do need to go there, to learn what those people are all about for yourself. Maybe that's the way you'll learn what they really are like, and why your place is here, with Amber. I don't hate them any more...but they did try to destroy my city, and everything I loved...they want Amber gone, or remade in their image, relegated to being just another foundational shadow. That would be slavery for us all. So please, stay a while with me, and if you must go there, go with eyes wide open. Accept what they have to teach, but do not become ensnared in their webs of obligation." He drops his eyes, and sighs.

"Sorry. I'm giving a speech, I don't mean to. But you have to know that just because people act nice doesn't mean they are nice."

[chalice]

"Yes, daddy." The ghost of her child self flashes in Gray's smile.

"Don't worry - I'm not getting starry-eyed about Chaos; it's just I don't know where else I can learn some of the things I need to know. And I need to know how to control the Gift. So I don't hurt people again. So I can be trusted and not the family liability." So I can be a fit mate for Heldrik, should he choose me... The thought brings a soft blush to her face, which she hopes will pass unnoticed in the glow from the fire. And if I can't be made whole again, better perhaps that he believes I died on the Pattern...

"And I guess I'm...less starry-eyed about Amber than I used to be. Maybe I don't belong in either place. Maybe..." She stares into the fire and sighs softly. "I'd stay here with you forever if I could-" silent tears glimmer and spill in the firelight.

Brushing them away, she manages a low, shaken laugh and gestures at their two tense companions. "Look - Corwin must have missed having you to bicker with; he's coopted Landon as stand-in!"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon looks down at his elbow, and looks back to Corwin with a rather hurt look, "I know exactly what's at stake. I was just trying to make the best of a bad situation. If you want to start pointing fingers there's a lot of blame to go around. The jig is up the moment someone in the know walks a Pattern, if it isn't already."

He looks Corwin square in the eyes. "Maybe if you would have had Aurora torture the shit out of Rebis like you had her do to me, we wouldn't be having this conversation." he says stiffly. "We all make mistakes."

Hearing his name, Landon turns and smiles the smile of an arguing parent trying assure their child that the world is sunshine and rainbows his demeanor changing almost as visibly as Gray's shapeshifting.

[chalice]

Hearing his name, Landon turns and smiles the smile of an arguing parent trying assure their child that the world is sunshine and rainbows his demeanor changing almost as visibly as Gray's shapeshifting.Gray returns Landon a sweet but anxious smile, shifting in her chair as if she wants to get up and cross the room to her brother, then forcing herself to sit still. Her look at Landon is questioning, and something else...protective, maybe?

[Wired*Nun]

Landon looks down at his elbow, and looks back to Corwin with a rather hurt look, "I know exactly what's at stake. I was just trying to make the best of a bad situation. If you want to start pointing fingers there's a lot of blame to go around. The jig is up the moment someone in the know walks a Pattern, if it isn't already."
"Yes, you're right, and you're not. There is too much to know and comprehend, even for a Pattern, sorting through someone's memories. They really aren't any smarter than we are, only more powerful. Otherwise they wouldn't need us."


He looks Corwin square in the eyes. "Maybe if you would have had Aurora torture the shit out of Rebis like you had her do to me, we wouldn't be having this conversation." he says stiffly. "We all make mistakes."
Corwin looks down, almost as if ashamed. Regretful, at least. "That wasn't my idea, you know, but I did agree to it. So I share the blame. You weren't put through that to get information, or coerce you. Four years in prison helped me grow up...partway...seeing people I cared about die and all I loved at risk, that grew me up the rest of the way. I didn't want anyone you loved killed nor would I risk Amber just to shake you out of your complacency. I was convinced the third option would work...but I knew it would be painful, and I knew you would resent it. I sure did. But I've forgiven Eric. It took a while...you can maybe forgive me later. For now, this is for all the marbles, so let's be careful what we say, all right? I have no power here, and it was a big risk to come for me, and Coral. Think about that one, too. Please."

[Wired*Nun]

""And I guess I'm...less starry-eyed about Amber than I used to be. Maybe I don't belong in either place. Maybe..." She stares into the fire and sighs softly. "I'd stay here with you forever if I could-" silent tears glimmer and spill in the firelight.
"Castle Amber, and the City, is just as wonderful as it ever was. It is also just as filled with real, fallible people. But this here, right here, is the real Amber. The Primal Pattern is the foundation. Even the City is but the most perfect reflection of its desire for peace and order. But like any responsible deity, it allows people their free will, even to the point of hurting it. That's what being a parent means...which is how it sees us all. Like children."

"But sweets, you can stay here, with me. Maybe not forever...nothing lasts forever, but for a long time. If that's what you want. You don't need to go to Chaos when you have an old, crafty shapeshifter who seems to like you, right here. I think if I ask him, in the Primal's name, he will teach you what you need to know..."


Brushing them away, she manages a low, shaken laugh and gestures at their two tense companions. "Look - Corwin must have missed having you to bicker with; he's coopted Landon as stand-in!

"Yes, well, always the charmer, but he has to have his way. Like I did...just think about what I said. I'd much rather see you under Dworkin's tutelage than corrupted by those don't really have your best interests at heart." If it were anyone but Eric, she would wonder whether she was being manipulated...but this...person, really does have Eric inside him, and I don't think he could be all that different...

[TreyKincaide]

Landon nods slowly as a response.

[chalice]

At almost the same time, Gray is responding to Eric with an indentical gesture.

Why is this so important to you?


... I'd much rather see you under Dworkin's tutelage than corrupted by those don't really have your best interests at heart." If it were anyone but Eric, she would wonder whether she was being manipulated...but this...person, really does have Eric inside him, and I don't think he could be all that different...
"If Dworkin will teach me, I'll more than gladly stay and learn. But-" She hesitates, then leans forward, uneasy with what she's trying to put into words. "Father, it isn't just the learning. It's...wanting to be with other people who are like me. Just for once, just for a while, not to be the freak in the group."

I miss my Pack. But even with them, I was different.

She looks away, back into the fire. "I don't find it easy to accept that I resemble our old enemies more than my own Family. But it's true. And as long as I go on seeing them as faceless monsters, I'm going to go on thinking of myself as a monster too. Can you understand that?"

[Wired*Nun]

"I understand, I think...but while they may have one thing in common with you - your ability to change - they will have many other differences which...will become evident. They are not monsters but...I suppose that you will have to see for yourself, sometime. That's the only way we really learn our lessons, I think - by experience. none of us are very good at learning from others' mistakes. I know I wasn't." He drops his hands, and sits back in his chair. "Let's just ask Grandpa, and see what he will teach you. If you have to go to Chaos, then it's better that you are forearmed - and I don't want you feeling as if you owe them everything. Maybe you will have something to teach them, eh? I'm not sure you will ever be truly 'one of the gang,' because you are different from anyone else, anywhere. I hope sometime you will find your place...wherever you choose that to be." He stares into the fire along with her for a minute.

"There are a few others like yourself, you know. Those of mixed heritage. Merlin, and others like him. They might be good people to get to know. Find out how they balance their...loyalties."

[chalice]

"There are a few others like yourself, you know. Those of mixed heritage. Merlin, and others like him. They might be good people to get to know. Find out how they balance their...loyalties.""I've met two." Rebis and Siodmak. "One was being held prisoner by his own people last time I saw him. The other is probably dead by now. I'd really like the chance to talk to whatever others there are...though mother wouldn't thank you for callng my heritage mixed, you know."

She frowns, and straightens in her chair, drawing back from him a little. "I don't much care for it either. I may be a - a throwback, but my heritage is as pure - which is to say as mixed - as yours." Something you taught me to believe was important.

[Wired*Nun]

He waves a hand in the air, as if dispelling a faintly bad aroma. "That's not what I meant, and you know it. You can't have it both ways - you just said you had things in common with Chaosites, and you are my daughter. Mixed doesn't mean impure. In fact, hybrids are usually stronger than purebreeds...if they can accept their differences. I just want you to find your place, whatever that is. Everyone feels like an outsider at times. Everyone has to fight, or negotiate, or accomodate, for their place...and your mother would agree, I think. She married me against the wishes of some of her people. I married her against the wishes of some of mine. Tough. And we produced the most beautiful child in all of shadow." His face breaks into a smile, lighting up her heart. "No matter what, I love you more than anything...just remember, sometimes duty trumps love. Obligation..."

[chalice]

His face breaks into a smile, lighting up her heart. "No matter what, I love you more than anything...just remember, sometimes duty trumps love. Obligation..."Eager to be friends again, Gray leans forward to kiss her father's cheek.

"I love you too. Maybe learning what I need to, here with you and Dworkin, will help me understand more clearly what my obligations are."

She smiles. "And now you have two beautiful children, and I'm being greedy keeping you all to myself!"

She stands, stretching slightly, and wanders over to place a hand on Landon's arm.

"Hullo, again, Landon. If you gentlemen are done with your-" slightest pause "-discussion, father's longing to talk to you, I think. I'll keep Uncle Corwin company while you two catch up, if you like."

Did I really just say that? Oh my...

She turns a nervous shadow of the smile she gave Landon in Corwin's direction, then holds out her right hand. "Hullo, Prince Corwin. Do you recognise me now?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon looks as if he's going to comment further, but stops as Gray approaches. He smiles, "I believe Corwin and I have said our piece for the moment." He glances to Corwin as Gray begins speaking and turns towards the ghost of Eric. He walks across the room a warrior rather than the courtier Eric remembers. His face is rather stoic as he takes a seat and studiously regards the facsimile of the long dead father he never knew mentally overlaying similarities of himself in the older man. He sighs with a smile. "Where would you like to start?"

[Wired*Nun]

She turns a nervous shadow of the smile she gave Landon in Corwin's direction, then holds out her right hand. "Hullo, Prince Corwin. Do you recognise me now?"
"Well...I can't say that I really do. I know you're Eric's daughter...I know my blood curse affected you badly, and for that, I apologise. I was blinded, if you will pardon the pun, by hatred, as well as hot irons. I truly thought, at that moment, that Eric was just doing it to make me suffer, rather than trying to preserve my life by taking me out of the game...that doesn't justify it, but I hope you can forgive me. Those were difficult times. There are more ahead."

[Wired*Nun]

Landon looks as if he's going to comment further, but stops as Gray approaches. He smiles, "I believe Corwin and I have said our piece for the moment." He glances to Corwin as Gray begins speaking and turns towards the ghost of Eric. He walks across the room a warrior rather than the courtier Eric remembers. His face is rather stoic as he takes a seat and studiously regards the facsimile of the long dead father he never knew mentally overlaying similarities of himself in the older man. He sighs with a smile. "Where would you like to start?"
The Eric stands, and sits when Landon does. At Landon's open-ended question, he folds his hands and holds them up in front of his bearded chin.

"I'm not sure...we don't really have a history...I was...the true Eric was...your biological father. But he didn't know about you, and I don't know much myself. Dworkin didn't evoke me possessing your knowledge, or Flora's, only Eric's...and a little bleed-over from the Primal itself, in a vague sort of way...and maybe some of Dworkin's. So, I know that he - I - never meant to leave you out or abandon you...Flora made it clear that you were hers...trained you as hers...molded you that way. I understand that you have changed a lot from what I remember. Did you come to imitate your father, after you found out who I was, rather than your mother? Er, Flora, I mean."

[chalice]

Two hundred years of nightmares, and now for some reason I want to make him feel better? How dumb is that?

"Please stop apologising, uncle" Gray smiles up at him gently. "It's forgiven. Truly. A few hours ago I thought I was dead - that kind of put things in perspective a bit."

The smile deepens for a moment, creating dimples. "As did my...younger self...in her own way."

Lavender eyes study him gravely. "Besides - I don't think you are now the same person you were then. I've been hating a phantom."

She steps closer, lowering her voice

"Forgiving you for getting my brother killed, though..." her gaze is very direct. "That would be something else. Please look after him, Corwin; he appears to need it. I'd offer to help, but I'm...unreliable. It looks as if I'll be here a while, trying to remedy that."

[Wired*Nun]

"He's made it very clear that he is his own man. He doesn't want to be my protege nor me his patron - he wants to be an equal in our relationship. The fact that we are far from equal doesn't enter in to it for him. This limits my ability to save him, especially from himself. I will do all I can...but you need to realise that he has forbidden me to take responsibility for him. So I can't, your or my desires to the contrary. The best I can do is do what I can." He looks pensive, and shrugs.

"I'm really not that good at all this business. People like Dworkin seem to be born to it...not me. I'm wasted as the keeper of my Pattern. I'd love to give it away...but not until the threats are diminished."

[chalice]

"Threats? To your Pattern, you mean? Or something else?"

You're not happy. Random's not happy. Doesn't anyone love their job anymore?

Another smile. "And what would you rather do instead?"

What do retired gods do? How tired he seems...

[Wired*Nun]

"Threats to the established order...threats to my Pattern...threats to Amber...threats to Chaos...it never ends, goddamnit, don't get me started." A sigh like the weight of the world is on his shoulders slips from him. His tongue pokes firmly into his cheek as he says, "Can't we all just get along?" A wink, and a finger alongside his nose, compounds the irony. "I'd rather be at home with someone I love, if I can ever find her. In between bouts of heroically doing things heroes do, or composing music, or dancing...or all of the above. What I am doing is more like...work. And I never liked work."

[chalice]

Gray rests a gentle hand on his arm. "Well, do you think the universe might fail to end if you relax for a little while you're here?"

She glances over at Landon and the Eric ghost. "Don't worry," she says softly. "I'm sure Landon won't give you away. And - actually - neither will I."

[Wired*Nun]

"Actually, yes, it might. That's the problem. Or might not - too many negatives in your sentences, girl."

"And regarding your brother...he's being...sloppy. I don't mistrust his intentions, but...the road to hell, and all that. Hey, so is there anything good to tell? Or is it all a tale of woe?" He sits down on the back of a comfy chair, since the seat is covered with clutter.

[TreyKincaide]

"Here and I thought Gray and I were the only ones with identity problems." he says wryly. "Tell you what, for the purposes of this conversation, to make things easier, please feel free to refer to yourself in the first person. I understand what you are and don't begrudge the comparison."

"As far as me, well, Flora picked me up from an orphanage when I was about Gray's previous age and took me to Shadow Earth sometime in the 30's. Where exactly that may be, I don't know. I haven't looked. I would admit that I'm afraid of what I might find out. You're right about Flora molding me as her own. The line blurs at times, and I can't rightly discern her intentions. It's possible she wanted an heir tucked away for a rainy day, I can't say. It's possible she became fond of me. Regardless, I'd hope that my biological mother is still alive and to meet her one day if I'm able" he shrugs.

I understand that you have changed a lot from what I remember. Did you come to imitate your father, after you found out who I was, rather than your mother?
Landon shakes his head. "I've only known shadows and ghosts. I wouldn't know you enough to imitate you if I wanted to. I just stopped bleaching my hair, and I'm trying to find my own way. I grew up a bit, but apparently," he glances over at Corwin, "I've still a ways to go. Muddling through much like my sister, I suppose. She was, after all, the first to believe I was yours after I freed her from stasis. At first I chalked it up to the vagaries of Shadow and after circumstances demanded that I not refute it further I finally accepted it."

[chalice]

Hey, so is there anything good to tell? Or is it all a tale of woe?" He sits down on the back of a comfy chair, since the seat is covered with clutter."Anything good...?" Gray muses a moment, then shrugs. "Well, personally, I'd have to say not really; my life pretty much sucks at the moment. Sorry - like I told Siodmak, my name isn't Pollyanna. I said I wasn't holding grudges, and I'm not. But I'm also not about to say 'well, true, I woke up to find my parents and all my friends were dead, my home was a wasteland, I was still going mad, and I've since discovered that the current King of Amber and I loathe each other - but hey! looking on the bright side I never have bad hair days...' Guess I'm just not that upbeat a girl." A self-mocking, lopsided smile follows that last.

"But when I said we should have a party, I didn't mean for it to be a pity party. So...something good...well, your son is probably going to get the manageable war he wants and to cull his Hendrakes, so maybe that's good from your perspective? Mandor's spell disintegrating in my head on the Pattern didn't actually kill me - so maybe that's good from mine. I found Landon again - definitely a Good Thing. Set against that, my two friends are going to think I died on the Pattern - maybe Not So Good. Though actually, the jury's still out on that one."

Gray shakes her head ruefully. "I'm sorry, Corwin," and she sounds as if she really is "- I'd cheer you up if I could - but the truth is I spend a lot of time just now trying not to scream. Maybe if we find a way to lift the second Curse I'll develop a sunnier outlook, and you can ask me again." She sighs. "Or maybe I should go back to being a little girl 'and always have fun'..." I liked me better that way. "Never discount the Neverland option..."

Then a thought surfaces, and her sweet, hopeful smile with it. "The best part of my story is that you and father have found a way to make peace." Sort of. "That means more to me than I can say. But that bit you knew already."

She tilts her head questioningly. "Anything or anyone you particularly want news of, whether good or bad?"

[Wired*Nun]

Eric looks at Landon with hooded eyes. "Interesting...she always was a schemer. Her only virtue may be that her ambition knows some bounds - that she is content to play second. She's more driven by insecurity and curiosity about everyone, than the will to power. As long as she is safe to play her courtly games, she is happy. That's one reason her tenancy on Earth was so annoying to her, but I had to have someone keep an eye on Corwin...and as for Gray, it may be her perceptivity, but also...only one of my blood, or someone attuned to the Jewel, could undo that spell I laid on the tower...I used the Jewel, and my own blood, to ensure that. I figured if it wasn't me, it would be Dworkin or the next King, if something happened to me."

He stops, ponders.

"I don't know, though...if I was me, or my father were alive, I would never tell you this but...since we're dragging out all the dirty laundry...it's not like I didn't sleep with her..."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon blinks caught not entirely off guard by that last comment, "At least I know where I got my unhealthy desires for the woman from. I had considered that possibility. Still am, but I received perhaps third hand testimony that Dworkin said otherwise. I had hoped that you might be able to point me in the right direction, but the vagaries of shadow muddy up the waters a bit too much it seems."

"As far as the stasis, it was a nice trick, I'll give you that. Took me a while to puzzle out. At the time I had no idea what it keyed to. I was manipulated into going there, that much I'm certain of, so I had some confidence of being able to walk the ward."

[Wired*Nun]

"Let's see, seventy years ago on Earth, about thirty in Amber, give or take...it works either way. There was a woman...Melisa von something...Austrian, Viennese, very cute, great dancer, society woman...she was insulated from the troubled times by her wealth...could have been her. How you would have ended up in an orphanage, I don't know, but in that place and time being born out of wedlock was just not done...she could have put you away. Best to ask Flora in more detail where she got you..."

I was manipulated into going there, that much I'm certain of, so I had some confidence of being able to walk the ward."

He looks keenly interested at this revelation. "Really? Manipulated how? I haven't heard this story."

[TreyKincaide]

Best to ask Flora in more detail where she got you...

I was afraid you were going to say that. It's a conversation that I'm not particularly looking forward to.

Really? Manipulated how? I haven't heard this story.

"That's a pretty long story, so allow me to sum up. I was living in a Shadow of my desire of Victorian Landon," he grins. "A friend of mine, a Shadow denizen, named Asmudson was manipulated into discovering some form of Trump. He invited me over to share in his discovery. He was planning on selling them. I wasn't particularly fond of the idea that someone was messing with my home, so with some melodramatics that ended up to my regret causing the poor man to have a heart attack, I tested them out and found myself stuck in a series of story book Shadows with peculiar rules that prevented Trump contact and prevented ease of Walking. I finally found myself in Gray's shadow and set her free. Later, the both of us came across a gentleman named Asmundson who my friend was a shadow of. He's an initiate of that damn troublesome Maze--a new Power that has some connection to the Keep of the Four Worlds. He claimed that he was friends with a Shadow of myself and wanted to adventure together. He showed ignorance to the True state of things as well as Gray's and my own true nature. His manner was polite and in other circumstances I'd be willing to share Gray's fondness of the man. I took note of her growing attachment, but at the time didn't care about whom she decided to associate."

Landon pauses to take a drink.

"Asmundson stated that he had painted her in a Trump by chance and grew to become enamored with the lady on the other side of the glass. In hindsight, I figure it's most likely that he was merely the instrument rather than the musician."

[Wired*Nun]

"So, I am still wondering, who was the originator of all this? Shadow sorcerers are normally pawns...who is the King? Or Queen? And why is he an initiate of a new Power? What is special about him? These are things I need to know!" He seems suddenly intense in his questioning, and Landon is reminded that he is not only Eric, but a construct of the Primal Power. What their connection is specifically, only Dworkin would know...

[Wired*Nun]

"Anything good...?" Gray muses a moment, then shrugs. "Well, personally, I'd have to say not really; my life pretty much sucks at the moment. "On the other hand, you are reasonably free, reasonably sane, and reasonably powerful...you can do things many others can't; you can wander Shadow at will, seek unfettered opportunities where you may...it often depends on your point of view, n'est pas?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon studies the Ghost before calmly pulling out a cigarette and lighting it. He takes a drag as he settles into his chair before quaffing some wine in one smooth motion.

Nothing like playing games with the Primal Pattern in the guise of a ghost of your dead father to bring joy to one's evening. Why'd I come here again? Oh yeah. To try to ask questions that even he doesn't know the answer to. I guess I epitomize the word bastard.

"Your interest in the welfare of your children, even one that you didn't know was your own, does you credit, Sire. Unfortunately, I do not posses the answers to the questions that you so fervantly require being a fairly insignificant piece myself. I do know there is a strong connection between the Maze, Jasra, Rinaldo, and the death of one of Gerard's sons."

I'm playing the trading game, a decidingly one sided game at that,with the Pattern just so I can learn a little more about my father. How fucked up is that? Time for him to ante up.

"Since it appears that I'll have to look elsewhere to find out about my biological mother, was there anything you can tell me further about yourself or say to a son if you would have had the oppurtunity before?"

[chalice]

"On the other hand, you are reasonably free, reasonably sane, and reasonably powerful...you can do things many others can't; you can wander Shadow at will, seek unfettered opportunities where you may...it often depends on your point of view, n'est pas?"
"Cést vrai. Et enfin," a liquid shrug "I have so many points of view..." a purring accent accompanies a slow smile, and a slender hand comes to rest almost caressingly on his arm. "By all means, cheri, let us look on the brright side..."

The sidelong glance she cast up at him through her eyelashes holds no trace of the sadness or shyness that was there a moment ago.

"I can do all those things...until the monster returns. Better to have fun while I can, hein?"

[Wired*Nun]

Switching to Parisian French, fishing a Galois out of his pocket, offering her one, and lighting it, Corwin seems to instantly change demeanor, recalling suave young gentlemen playing at cards and sophistication, impressionists of high society...

"You illustrate my point reasonably well, even while belieing it. You - all of you in there - will have to settle on whom to be. Pity you don't have a background in Shakespeare, there are a couple of nice quotes that are begging for insertion here. The trick is to keep our...aspects...coherent. And talking to one another. Freud called it integration. Of course, he was talking about the Id, Ego and Superego. In your case, all of those people inside you would benefit from that certain something that you have right now...and from the innocence of the child, and the adolescent's care and concern, and of the strength of the beast. Wish I could help you out more, but my degree is in medicine, not psychology."

He takes a deep drag from the cancer stick, and squints his eyes at her.

[chalice]

"You illustrate my point reasonably well, even while belieing it. You - all of you in there - will have to settle on whom to be. Pity you don't have a background in Shakespeare, there are a couple of nice quotes that are begging for insertion here. The trick is to keep our...aspects...coherent. And talking to one another. Freud called it integration. Of course, he was talking about the Id, Ego and Superego. In your case, all of those people inside you would benefit from that certain something that you have right now...and from the inoocence of the child, and the adolescent's care and concern, and of the strength of the beast. Wish I could help you out more, but my degree is in medicine, not psychology."

He takes a deep drag from the cancer stick, and squints his eyes at her.
Agraynel shrugs again, blue smoke trickling slowly between her lips, and replies in the same language.

"Sounds boring. Those others? I don't need them. My company not...interesting...enough for you?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Sorry, but I prefer older women. You don't qualify." He reaches out, as if to touch her shoulder, then deftly filches the Trump from her hand. Switching to Thari, he says sternly, "I think you'd better go to your room now, mon cherie. Send out the young lady." He pauses, holding up the Trump, and his voice turns to steel. "Don't make me come in after you."

A saner Gray might realize that some of the stories about what a son-of-a-bitch Corwin could be must be true...at least, some of them...

[Wired*Nun]

"Your interest in the welfare of your children, even one that you didn't know was your own, does you credit, Sire. Unfortunately, I do not possess the answers to the questions that you so fervantly require being a fairly insignificant piece myself. I do know there is a strong connection between the Maze, Jasra, Rinaldo, and the death of one of Gerard's sons."

"Since it appears that I'll have to look elsewhere to find out about my biological mother, was there anything you can tell me further about yourself or say to a son if you would have had the opportunity before?"A change comes over his face then, as whatever had ahold of him releases its grip.

"About myself? Well, there are lots of boring records of my regency and my reign, and histories of that time...I don't know. I wanted a son...I want a son...but I didn't think he would be showing up all grown. That's kind of hard to take, even for a tough guy like me." The ghost of a smile reveals this as an effort at humor, albeit feeble. "But don't pity me. It's a bit sad for us both. No one should grow up without a father, or a mother for that matter. I guess I'd be happy to do whatever I can...to make up for things, a little. If you want me to."

[chalice]

"Sorry, but I prefer older women. You don't qualify." He reaches out, as if to touch her shoulder, then deftly filches the Trump from her hand. Switching to Thari, he says sternly, "I think you'd better go to your room now, mon cherie. Send out the young lady." Agraynel pouts, and drops her cigarette to be crushed under foot.

"You're no fun anymore."

He pauses, holding up the Trump, and his voice turns to steel. "Don't make me come in after you."

A saner Gray might realize that some of the stories about what a son-of-a-bitch Corwin could be must be true...at least, some of them...But then, a saner Gray wouldn't be in this situation in the first place...

"Ooh, scary..." she widens her eyes melodramatically, then narrows them. Her rippling laugh manages to be both musical and somehow unpleasant. "No damsel in distress left unturned, huh? You want the pathetic little bitch, hero, come get her..."

She regards him with a mocking smile and angry eyes.

[Wired*Nun]

Resting his hand upon Greyswandir, Corwin turns to casually regard the card, as if merely surveying it, but a moment later, Gray cannot move. She sees a strange double image, through the card and through her eyes. With some struggle, the tart personality is compressed, suppressed, balled up, wrapped up, packaged, and tossed into a corner of her mind. This process leaves a void for some other personality to manifest...

[chalice]

"Oh boy!! That was neat! Is she gone forever and ever???"

[Wired*Nun]

"Fortunately, no. Like most prisoners, you have to deal with them sometime. You'll need her eventually. Everyone needs both the sheep and the wolf. But she'll stay there for a bit...and I was hoping you could look on the bright side, for a while."

[chalice]

"Fortunately, no. Like most prisoners, you have to deal with them sometime. You'll need her eventually. Everyone needs both the sheep and the wolf. But she'll stay there for a bit...and I was hoping you could look on the bright side, for a while."
"All right! That's easy! I don't want to be a sheep though..."

Gray tilts her small head and chews the end of her braid, apparently Deep In Thought.

"I know! When I go, I'll give me my wings! Then she'll know she can always fly away if she's scared, and she'll be braver. She won't come out now, she's em-barr-assed. Shall I do that? Wings are the bestest thing ever! Would you like some, Uncle Corwin?"

[TreyKincaide]

"I really don't think that you have anything to 'make up' to me. It's not your fault, and I don't want to you think that I expect that you owe me anything. I don't."

Even as close a copy as this is, it's not Eric. It's a ghost, an extension of a once insane contruct that knows nothing but conflict and has no compunction of sacrificing its "children" in its quest for dominance.

"Aside from an inexhaustable supply of Flora's 'friends' that were here one day and gone the next, I didn't have a lot of role models growing up. I wouldn't even know where to begin..."

[Wired*Nun]

"I may not be who I appear to be, but I feel like I am. I feel like I've been alive for hundreds of years, even though I know intellectually that I was only created today. I feel like I need to do something, at least try to do something. I feel like I owe you something. I know you don't fully trust me, whatever I am. I guess I wouldn't either. I think you can trust me to do my best, though, as long as you stay away from things it feels strongly about...frankly, it doesn't much care about you or me. It cares about Dworkin and its struggle, and that's about it. I hate to think what would happen if Dworkin were...well, something happened to him." He rubs his eyes with his thumb and first two fingers. He looks real...

"Most of our troubles came out of that time when it was damaged, and Dworkin with it...and it's hard to say whose fault that was. It's easy to point a finger at Brand, but maybe he was just a tool as well?"

[Wired*Nun]

" Wings are the bestest thing ever! Would you like some, Uncle Corwin?"
"That's a very nice offer, Gray, but I think they would get in the way. I sleep on my back. I'd also have to buy a bunch of new clothes. But thank you for the thought."

Anything further is interrupted by Dworkin and Coral returning - whole. Her eyes are clear and she seems to be quite happy about something. Dworkin is also in good spirits, saying, "And, how has the family reunion been going! I don't see anyone bleeding, so I have to believe good things about you all. Hopefully you will have good things to believe about me, since I have good news! But I can't tell anyone, oh, no, not yet. You'll all have to be content with just being happy along with me, in the dark. Ah, figurative in the dark, I mean, of course."

Coral walks over to take Corwin's arm and whisper in his ear. He smiles at her words, and says, "I think it's time to take our leave. You four would seem to have lots to catch up on, so we shall be saying au - ahem, good-bye now." He thumbs through his Trumps and makes one ready to depart.

[chalice]

"Bye, Uncle Corwin! 'Bye Aunt Coral!" Gray hugs both enthusiastically in farewell.

"I believe nice things about you, Grandpa Dworkin," she adds, loyally. "And I'm really glad you're happy! When can you tell us???"

[Wired*Nun]

"Oh, when pigs can't fly without your help, that's when. It it new year's yet? It feels like it is, because I have lots of presents to give out! But they're all secrets." His face falls, and he puts on a pout. "But my grandson and granddaughter here want to get away as fast as possible, back to their own fun. They're not sure if I won't just...pop! Heheh, pop goes the Pattern! That might be fun. I wonder how it would take to hopscotch?"

[TreyKincaide]

Am I that transparent? I had hoped that wasn't the case and Flora taught me better, but once again I'm out of my league. He seems genuine, and, perhaps, with boundaries he's described this won't be so bad. If he wants to be the father I never had, then I should let him. It's not his fault he was created for such a thing.

Landon looks as if he'll respond, but is cut short by the flurry of activity. He watches the spectacle detached and the corners of his mouth turn to a forced grin. He remains silent.

You say you brought me here to be party to whatever is going on. So far, I seem to be the only one in the dark. Damn you, Corwin, you're a friend when it suits you. You never said you were leaving me here.

Landon turns to Eric and the annoyance slips away. "Well, it looks like I'm going to need a change of clothes. I didn't bring an overnight bag," he remarks with a self mocking grin.

[chalice]

Heheh, pop goes the Pattern! That might be fun. I wonder how it would take to hopscotch?" Gray giggles. "Are you going to play a game, Granpa? Can I play too?"


As Corwin flicks through his Trump deck, she turns a radiant smile Landon's way. "You're staying? Really?"

As quickly, the smile falters and the beginnings of distress take over: "But - what about Arthur?"

The question seems directed somewhere between Landon and Corwin; the lavender gaze which moves from one to the other is anxious.

[Wired*Nun]

"Of course, dear, always lots of games with old Dworkin around." His smile grows even broader, if that were possible. Actually, with a shapeshifter, it is...

As quickly, the smile falters and the beginnings of distress take over: "But - what about Arthur?"

Corwin replies, "He'll be fine, Gray. I can send him here, if Landon wishes. He knows he can contact me any time. Landon, I can have Helena gather some of your things and either bring them or send them."

Eric gives Landon a raised eyebrow, and a wry grin. "I'm sure we can find something here in a pinch. Dworkin has many clothes, for any size or shape he chooses to take. We might have to wash them when we find them, though..."

[chalice]

Corwin replies, "He'll be fine, Gray. I can send him here, if Landon wishes. He knows he can contact me any time. Landon, I can have Helena gather some of your things and either bring them or send them."

Eric gives Landon a raised eyebrow, and a wry grin. "I'm sure we can find something here in a pinch. Dworkin has many clothes, for any size or shape he chooses to take. We might have to wash them when we find them, though..."
"And we got you a room all ready! Tidy and everything. I helped!" she adds proudly, glossing over the fact that her 'help' consisted mostly of dashing about excitedly and getting covered in dust.

"Uncle Corwin, are you taking my picture with you, or can I have it back?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon, I can have Helena gather some of your things and either bring them or send them.

Landon's head swivels in Corwin's direction, "If you believe that she's up to the trip by all means..." before turning back to Eric.

Hmmm. You are quite eager to put those that you "care" in the way of your antagonist. If I'm not to be there, then at this point I don't want her in your grasp either. Perhaps when this is done, I'll find my sanctuary for and my wife and myself.

I'm sure we can find something here in a pinch. Dworkin has many clothes, for any size or shape he chooses to take. We might have to wash them when we find them, though...

Not to mention delouse. Although to be fair, if I live long enough to be through even a quarter of what he has, then, perhaps, I wouldn't put much stock in personal appearance either.

Landon smiles, "Very well then."

And we got you a room all ready! Tidy and everything. I helped!

Without missing a beat, "I appreciate your thoughtfulness. You'll have to show me where it is when the party is over."

[chalice]

"I will! We got lots of rooms ready, but nobody else is staying." She looks sulky for a second, but quickly brightens. "It'll be super nice to meet Helena though! Tell me about your wedding again so daddy and Grandpa can hear the story? Please?"

By now, she has managed to perch on the arm of Landon's chair, wings folded back and around her like some kind of feathered cloak that covers her from shoulder to ankle. She's very careful not to bump into him in his injured state.

"Daddy wants me to help him fix the universe," she tells Landon, a trifle smugly.

"I bet you could help too, though. Couldn't he?" she appeals to Eric and Dworkin on this last point.

[Wired*Nun]

Landon's head swivels in Corwin's direction, "If you believe that she's up to the trip by all means..." before turning back to Eric.

"That's up to you. She won't be harmed simply by coming here. You'll have to make your own judgments about the wisdom of bringing her." He stands, blandly waiting, hand in Coral's.

[chalice]

He stands, blandly waiting, hand in Coral's.
"Uncle Corwin?" a bright glance, head tilted to one side. "Is Aunt Coral your girlfriend?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Daddy wants me to help him fix the universe," she tells Landon, a trifle smugly.

"I bet you could help too, though. Couldn't he?" she appeals to Eric and Dworkin on this last point."Of course he can, honey," says Eric warmly. He shoots a slighly puzzled glance at Landon, then looks over at Dworkin. "I'm sure whatever granpa wants, he will get."

Dworkin looks over his nose at the lot of them and cackles. "Yesyesyesyes, that's right, what granpa wants, granpa gets, oh quite true..."

[Wired*Nun]

"Uncle Corwin?" a bright glance, head tilted to one side. "Is Aunt Coral your girlfriend?"
"No, sweets, she's my half-sister. That means we share the same daddy but not the same mommy. Only, he's not around any more, so we really don't share anyone now, do we," he says a trifle sadly.

[chalice]

"No, sweets, she's my half-sister. That means we share the same daddy but not the same mommy. Only, he's not around any more, so we really don't share anyone now, do we," he says a trifle sadly."If you had puppies, you could share them..." Gray's earnest expression is innocent witness to the fact that a wolf would see no problem with this arrangement...

[Wired*Nun]

"Well, if you have some puppies for us, I might consider taking a couple...but normally sisters and brothers don't...be girlfriend and boyfriend..." Now he does look kind of wistful, and Coral squeezes his hand, as if sympathizing with...something...

[TreyKincaide]

"It'll be super nice to meet Helena though! Tell me about your wedding again so daddy and Grandpa can hear the story? Please?""Perhaps a little later, Gray, when Helena is here," he says with a smile. "I'm sure she'd love to talk all about it."

She won't be harmed simply by coming here. Landon returns the bland look, "Since it seems I'm going to be staying here longer than I thought, and Helena and I haven't had much time to spend together other than during my recuperation--a state that I regret her seeing me in--please have her and the dogs Trump through."

Thus seems to be the beginning to the end of our association. I do not know if we'll return to your Rome. I will not give you up, but you pushed me away for reasons I can not fathom.

"Of course he can, honey," says Eric warmly. He shoots a slighly puzzled glance at Landon, then looks over at Dworkin. "I'm sure whatever granpa wants, he will get."Landon returns the same puzzled look that Eric give him having lost a handle on the conversation long time ago.

At least I will not be alone with my unpredicatable sister, my Pattern ghosted father, and my addled great grandfather. Why do I suddenly have the impression of being traded like a baseball card?

[chalice]

"Well, if you have some puppies for us, I might consider taking a couple...but normally sisters and broethers don't...be girlfriend and boyfriend..." Now he does look kind of wistful, and Coral squeezes his hand, as if sympathizing with...something...
Gray bounces down from her perch and throws her small arms round Corwin, full of remorse for saying something to upset him.

"Aw, Uncle Corwin, don't be sad! Please don't! If me and Heldrik have puppies, you can have one, promise."

[Wired*Nun]

Coral's face dissolves in laughter, and Corwin's does as well, a moment later. "Oh, my, Cory, she has you there!" Coral's guffaws seems to go on and on, and Eric and Dworkin join in as well. A lot of the tension in the room evaporates, at least for a moment.

"I'll send them through, Landon, as soon as they are ready. Come back when you're finished here." His concern seems genuine...am I really this cynical?

[TreyKincaide]

Landon chokes on a bit of wine and it is all that he can do to ensure that he doesn't spit it all over Eric. He coughs loudly for some time before he can get it under control. He looks as if he's going to say something, but looks to the small child that is his sister and then back to Eric before biting his tongue. He nods to Corwin.

[chalice]

Unsure why people are laughing (or choking!), but happy to have her little 'family' at ease again, Gray goes back to perch on the arm of Landon's chair.

"'Bye Uncle Corwin, 'Bye, Aunt Coral. I'll come see you another time!"

[Wired*Nun]

Corwin and Coral step through his Trump, leaving behind a rainbow for Gray to ohh and ahh over. In fact, the rainbow grows, and intensifies, until it fills the whole room. It becomes almost blinding in intensity, and Gray and Landon find themselves inside a pink-marble-walled cavern. Dworkin is there with them as well, and he quickly changes form, growing to look younger, stronger and healthier. Soon he appears more like the pictures of Oberon they have seen hanging in Castle Amber, than the Dworkin they know.

He turns then to address Landon. "As Agraynel's nearest kin, and as she is currently a minor, I'd like your consent to do a bit of temporary stabilization on her mind - something like the young Chaos Lord did for her. Then, she can make her own decisions in her more natural state." Landon notices he is wearing the Jewel of Judgment, and he looks sane, clear-eyed and in control of himself.

[chalice]

Wide eyes fix on the Jewel, and Gray shrinks closer to Landon, gripping one of his hands tightly.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon glances down at Gray and rubs her hand in his own before turning to Dworkin. "I am unused to making decisions for her, but I see no harm in what you propose. You have my consent."

[Wired*Nun]

"All right." It is but the work of a moment, using a small wand of some sort from his pocket, and Gray feels drawn back to her basic self, and her body soon follows.

"Now we can talk a bit. I have removed us to this place so that the Primal cannot hear our conversation. Also, almost no time is passing. I hope it will not notice, through the ghost's limited senses, and the Trump effect will cover the transports. It has a vested interest in keeping Gray helpless. It was also starting to grow suspicious of Corwin and his presence there. Fortunately the infusion of my blood has given the ghost some independence, and I will provide it with more. The Jewel gives me the leverage that I need over the Primal now. Until I got it back, I had to be mad old Dworkin, harmless and controllable, yes?"

[chalice]

Gray squeezes Landon's hand before releasing it, and smiles at him - a sweet, sane smile, her eyes calm and clear and full of a cautious sort of joy.

"Thank you."

She turns to Dworkin, looking thoughtful. "I see. But I don't see what interest the Pattern could have in me. I did notice that it was very keen for me to stay here, and almost alarmed at my suggestion of visiting Chaos..."

The cool, almost detached, intelligence in her voice is something new to her brother.

[Wired*Nun]

"Yes...it is. All part of the great game, my dear. Anything created by the Jewel, including the matrix your father placed you in, resonates with the Primal. In time, you picked up some of that resonance. It thinks it likes you. It can't help but like you...there is a connection. It wants to use you...and it will. Will try, anyway."

[TreyKincaide]

"I would understand the Primal's interest in Gray as well. What does it have to benefit with her in state that she's in?"

"I see the need for deception, Dworkin. Watching Corwin and Aurora, I can only begin to imagine how intimately connected to your respective Images the two of you are. Perhaps, it's like the ghost. You are the Pattern, and yet you're not."

[chalice]

"Use me? To...do what?"

I feel it too. I felt it when I first saw the Primal and thought it worth dying to look on.

[Wired*Nun]

"To...do what?""What it always does. Try to win. I created it to oppose Chaos. I created too well. I never thought it would gain the upper hand. I even created its parameters to mitigate against this happening, ensuring Chaos was always on the attack, the Pattern, always a tool of defense. Unfortunately Corwin upset all that. Not his fault, perhaps, but his responsibility. I can sympathise."


"I would understand the Primal's interest in Gray as well. What does it have to benefit with her in state that she's in?"
"She becomes another pawn, with good opportunities for promotion. She embodies some unique qualities, wouldn't you say? As do you, Landon, though you don't have the same resonance."



"I see the need for deception, Dworkin. Watching Corwin and Aurora, I can only begin to imagine how intimately connected to your respective Images the two of you are. Perhaps, it's like the ghost. You are the Pattern, and yet you're not."

"Yes, Landon, but the difference is, I created the Pattern. I used this - " holding up the Jewel between thumb and forefinger. " - and the laws of precedence guarantee my primacy...if I defend it. But think, Landon..." Dworkin takes one long step into Landon's reach, causing him to flinch in surprise - "if Corwin's Pattern posesses self-direction, and mine has it in spades - " the Jewel dangles in front of Landon's eyes like a droplet of fine wine - "what do you think about the Pattern contained within the Left Eye of the Serpent? I'm sure Gray understands...do you?" Perhaps it is genius that dances in Dworkin's eye...but Landon recalls the old saying about the line between genius and madness...

[chalice]

It has no creator. And it held me in its grip twice a hundred years...

[TreyKincaide]

She embodies some unique qualities, wouldn't you say? As do you, Landon, you don't have the same resonance.
"She is closer than any of the children of Amber that I am aware of to what Oberon and yourself represent before the lack of need for constant adaption as would be required in the Courts bred shapeshifting out of the line. We both share a fairly strong claim to the thrown were anything to happen. I believe I get what you're hinting towards. If she's controllable she does indeed make a fitting piece for the Pattern's machinations, as I had feared."


what do you think about the Pattern contained within the Left Eye of the Serpent?
"I had suspected that the Image in the Jewel to be self aware otherwise the wonders it has help create wouldn't be so. I'm not the smartest when in comes to things metaphysical, but I recognize the laws of sympathy when they are put before me. If the Primal's self-awareness was based upon your desires concious and not, and Corwin's drew his primarily to protect that which he loved believing all to be lost, what influences that in the Jewel? The Serpent? Does the piece long to return to the whole?"

[chalice]

"It used to be one thing," Gray says, slowly. "And now it isn't."

Like me.

All those voices, shouting at each other...everything splintering...

Something that might be pity wakes in her eyes.

"And it...knows that?"

She frowns, as a new thought occurs. "What of the Right Eye, Dworkin? Has it a Will of its own too?"

Poor thing. Poor eternal monstrous pitiful thing. At war with itself forever...

[Wired*Nun]

"I had suspected that the Image in the Jewel to be self-aware, otherwise the wonders it has helped create wouldn't be so. I'm not the smartest when in comes to things metaphysical, but I recognize the laws of sympathy when they are put before me. If the Primal's self-awareness was based upon your desires, concious and not, and Corwin drew his primarily to protect that which he loved, believing all to be lost, what influences that in the Jewel? The Serpent? Does the piece long to return to the whole?"


"Ahhh! An insight! Such a wonderful thing. Yessssss....yes it does. It wishes to return home, and so, must be guarded, controlled...but that is not its only desire. It desires independence as well. It is not even sure itself what it wants! Is it any wonder they think me mad at times? But I was the first to essay the Pattern within the Jewel. At that time it wished to gain autonomy, and it influenced us to free it and create a place where it could be protected from those forces which wouold return it." He looks wistful for a moment.

"Like us all, sometimes it wishes...it wishes it could go home. But I can't. I mean, it can't..."



"It used to be one thing," Gray says, slowly. "And now it isn't."

"And it...knows that?"



"Yes, Gray, it knows. Like you used to be one of the Pack, but you will never really be again. Or like a child who ran away from home, but wishes it could take it all back sometimes. Of course, on other days...it just wants to be left alone, or to destroy the Other, or to control everything it can...in some ways it is the most childish thing imaginable. In others...most wise."



She frowns, as a new thought occurs. "What of the Right Eye, Dworkin? Has it a Will of its own too?"


"I think it could...but it has never been separated from the Serpent, and so perhaps, can't distinguish itself from that being...or perhaps there is not real difference, unless it were also removed. I am not sure. It's very hard to get an opportunity to experiment on such a thing, of course." He smiles and his eye twinkle now, and he lowers the Jewel back to his breast. "Suhuy won't tell me, either, cagey bastard. But I'm still the better Player..." His eyes seem to focus on something in the distance, that only he can see.

[TreyKincaide]

"Forgive my lack of understanding if this is what you're alluding to, but from I'm this I'm taking that it has much in common with Gray's fractured psyche. Every personality that Gray possesses is a part of the whole. Gray can be used as a symbol for the situation perhaps providing an underlying reason why that Pattern wishes to use her as well as the Pattern "glow" she resonates. This leads me to the idea that all the Patterns are connected to the Serpent, everyone that has walked the Pattern and carries it's Image is connected to the Serpent in some degree although as evidenced by myself as a standard bearer not sufficient enough to draw attention, and Gray is now connected to the Serpent in her Pattern resonance although perhaps not as strongly as anyone attuned to the Jewel itself or either Corwin or yourself as living embodiments of the Images you both transcribed and vice versa.

Perhaps, there is an underlying unconcious desire in everything to return to the whole as the Serpent tries to reintegrate itself much as Gray desperately searches for a way to mend her fractured psyche." Landon seems to have exhausted the bounds of his reasoning as the thought indeed edges closer to madness.

Or like a child who ran away from home, but wishes it could take it all back sometimes. Of course, on other days...it just wants to be left alone, or to destroy the Other, or to control everything it can...in some ways it is the most childish thing imaginable. In others...most wise.

"I fail to grasp the implications of this line of reasoning as I don't have the insights as Gray or yourself possess. Aside from the similarities to Gray I can not fathom why you'd let us in on this revelation except perhaps to ask 'What does it wish at the moment?'"

[chalice]

Gray nods as if Landon's reasoning makes sense to her, grateful for his ability to put into words what she can only feel.

"How mixed its feelings must be about the Maze," she muses softly. "A threat...and yet a clumsy version of a joining sometimes deeply desired...a travesty of an ideal...longed-for, but feared too..."

[Wired*Nun]

"

Perhaps, there is an underlying unconcious desire in everything to return to the whole as the Serpent tries to reintegrate itself much as Gray desperately searches for a way to mend her fractured psyche." Landon seems to have exhausted the bounds of his reasoning as the thought indeed edges closer to madness.

"I fail to grasp the implications of this line of reasoning as I don't have the insights as Gray or yourself possess. Aside from the similarities to Gray I can not fathom why you'd let us in on this revelation except perhaps to ask 'What does it wish at the moment?'"

"All true! But not the whole truth, which I do not have either...and perhaps never will. Think of it as a family perhaps, that is in constant flux...trying to be together, clashing with itself...if you are looking for metaphors, you may look no further than the Courts of Amber and Chaos. I think it has an affinity for Gray because of this and other things, yes...but reasoning isn't what I am in need of. It's insight. Imagination. I thought perhaps, Landon, as you had seen Corwin's Pattern, you might be able to provide me with some insight...just a chance, mind you. Just a chance, one never knows. And perhaps, since you are a participant in the attempt to prune the Patterns' influence, you might find my own insights useful, yes..."

[Wired*Nun]

"How mixed its feelings must be about the Maze," Gray muses softly. "A threat...and yet a clumsy version of a joining sometimes deeply desired...a travesty of an ideal...""Very good! Yes, something like that had occurred to me as well, but you articulate it so well! Have you read Shelley? It makes one wonder who or what is behind the creation of that particular piece of equipment. And how self-aware is it? It bears looking into...and by what mechanism was it formed? What focus inscribed or constructed it?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon, as you had seen Corwin's Pattern, you might be able to provide me with some insight...just a chance, mind you. Just a chance, one never knows. And perhaps, since you are a participant in the attempt to prune the Patterns' influence, you might find my own insights useful, yes...Landon nods thoughtfully. "Corwin's Pattern despite similies is distinctly different that what I've heard described of the Primal and the Jewel. They're best mirrored in the ghosts the create. I've met two Eric's now, and while I believe the Primal's is a more exact copy there was a genuine feeling in the other that your's lacks at moments as the Primal presses for information it desires. That Aurora would knowingly sacrifice her own influence is a feat that the other is as incapable of as surely as bringing the real Eric back to life. That is not to say that I entirely trust it of course. It's as capable as Corwin of precision cruelty."

Very good! Yes, something like that had occurred to me as well, but you articulate it so well! Have you read Shelley? It makes one wonder who or what is behind the creation of that particular piece of equipment. And how self-aware is it? It bears looking into...and by what mechanism was it formed? What focus inscribed or constructed it"As Gray had mentioned earlier, I believe she has more insight into such matters than of this entirely new thing, but I do know that the Keep of the Four World's, Jasra, and Rinaldo are key. It's aware enough to detect Pattern manipulation in it's own vacinity and lash out defensively which in itself doesn't imply self conciousness as any creature adapts to a hostile environment, but it attempted to infect me and direct my thinking which does imply sublty of a higher intelligence."

[chalice]

"We have been thinking of it as something new...what if it is rather an attempt to re-create something Old?"

Gray's eyes narrow. "It either adapts itself to please its initiates, or its reflections display the same splintering in nature. Or so it would seem from speaking with Siodmak and Asmundsen. Asmudsen descibes a benevolent Nightmare. Siodmak talked of a 'goddess' named Sajjarrasa far more suited to his personal...tastes."

Another frown. "Asmundsen and Siodmak...they couldn't be more different. And yet The Maze recruited Asmundsen, or so he said, to try to turn Siodmak away from the kind of life he was leading. Why didn't it - she - do that herself? He seemd happy to admit he was under her influence and happy to be so...

"Do they mirror their respective Mazes? Or does it change to suit them..."

This time the head shakes betrays frustration.

"I'm sorry - being able to think clearly is something I've grown unused to. My brain feels...rusty.

"Its Primal appears to be at the Keep of Four Worlds..." she details everything she has heard so far about the Maze - a succinct, careful account lacking any of her usual misty sidetracks.

[Wired*Nun]

"Perhaps it is using them both...giving them what they both want...one a hedonist, the other, an idealist. A blend of Order and Chaos, a balance between the two, might either be the most sane, or the most schizoid, of constructs. It is not old...but the concept may be. A substitute for the Serpent, both eyes open...in whose view? What creature would think that way? The hole in my mind is still there, a...gap. I have to think around it, most times. At least it's not malignant."

"At the Keep? First I've heard of it...I think...oh, this is becoming a strain. We must go back. The river of time cannot be held back forever. Quick quick! Any last words?"

[chalice]

"What kind of creature might think that way? Jasra..is a demon, is she not? Are the Demons...old?"

As Dworkin indicates time is running out:

"If you can take what is in my mind quickly, I have no objection." She focussesd hard on what she has learned of Maze and the Keep - including the strange Sorybook Shadows'.

her face grows regretful: "And - must I return to being a child by the time we return?" Since we aren't supposed to be gone at all.

[TreyKincaide]

"Asmundson is a peculiarity that the ghost and thereby the Pattern drew my attention to earlier perhaps seeing it's machinations as a threat to Gray where as previously I hadn't overly considered the matter. A conclusion was reached that perhaps Asmundson himself was a tool manipulated by the wishes of the Maze as in his efforts of leading me to free her as well his fast friendship. It's possible that the Maze recognized the resonance that Gray carries as well as the resonance of the matrix itself and wished to turn her towards it's own ends."

He turns to Gray, "I do not say as I do out to dissuade your opinion of the man or out of excess cynicism, but it seems you are far more important than was originally apparent. With this information coming to light, I must distrust the coincidence of him drawing you by accident without someone's else's hand in it even more so than I did. I believe he is unaware of such, however."

He turns to Dworkin, "I apologize that we are unable to speak further. Do as you must."

[Wired*Nun]

"Yes, but she is not. But perhaps those behind and before her...they are old. Very old...the oldest of beings. So perhaps she is being used as well, willingly or not. Ohhhh..." He holds his hand up to his head, and says, "We have to go back, or risk catastrophe..."

The rainbow colors return, and a moment later, they are standing precisely where they were before.

"Gray!" says Eric. "You're back to your...yourself, I suppose you would say. I'm glad." He takes her hands, looking into her eyes. "You look good."

[chalice]

"Yes, but she is not. But perhaps those behind and before her...they are old. Very old...the oldest of beings. So perhaps she is being used as well, willingly or not. Ohhhh..." He holds his hand up to his head, and says, "We have to go back, or risk catastrophe..." Gray manages a quick smile for Landon, though her eyes are sad. "I too distrust the circumstances...while my instincts tell me to trust Asmundsen himself, good men may be most easily manipulated."

The rainbow colors return, and a moment later, they are standing precisely where they were before.

"Gray!" says Eric. "You're back to your...yourself, I suppose you would say. I'm glad." He takes her hands, looking into her eyes. "You look good."
"Thank you, father!" Leaning forward to kiss his cheek, Gray fills her whole mind with the love she has for her father, her joy at them being 'together' again, saddened at using such a shield to hide her thoughts behind - at having to hide them at all - but now convinced of the necessity. "I feel good!"

She hastens to suggest a possible reason for her return to 'normal': "I-I feel better with Corwin gone. He...still makes me nervous."

She pulls back and laughs. "Though I may try the wings on again for size sometime!"

I don't know if I could ever lie to him...but chosing only parts of the truth...maybe I can do that...for a while...thank all the fates Landon is here to help...he was raised for intrigue as I was not...

[TreyKincaide]

Landon sits in his chair and blinks the fading visions of rainbows away. He takes a drink of wine and attempts to clear his head and hide what just happened deep in his thoughts.

I feel ashamed about the conclusions I jumped to regarding Corwin. It seems I've seen exactly what it was he wanted me to see. Perhaps I was just angry about the way he handled the situation. I should take my own advice to ensure that our relationship doesn't go the way of him and Eric's. I should apologize when I'm able to do so, and try to be less suspicious in the future of him and the rest of my relatives unjustly and until given cause to be so. It's a fine balance that. One I need to work at getting down. Perhaps there is a strength found in this I've considered to be a weakness before. Perhaps, in time I can call myself a man the real Eric, Flora, and most importantly, myself, would be proud of and respect. Perhaps, knowing this, I've just taken a step on the way there.

He shakes the thoughts away and smiles feeling somehow lighter and better about himself. His mood shines through as he stands seeing the subject needing to be readily changed and approaches draping one arm over Eric and one over Gray. "I had thought this was a party," he says. "There's no reason even if a few left that the four of us can't make ourselves merry. We have wine and good food. Regretfully, the only thing we're missing are some dancing girls." he says jovially with a wink.

[chalice]

Gray slips an arm round Landon, grateful for his intervention, and smiles up at him, then at Dworkin.

"Grandfather?" she tries to keep her voice as light as her brother's. "Do you happen to have any dancing girls tucked away for Landon...?"

She grins at Eric. "I won't tell his wife if you don't..." she says, with a teasing glance at Landon.

[TreyKincaide]

"I'm married, I'm not dead." he cites the old adage in a wise sagely manner and follows with the other, "There's a difference between looking and touching. We reside in a version of Rome. She's used to it. Take my word for it."

[chalice]

Gray giggles. "All right, big brother, I will. I bow to your greater experience of such matters!"

A tiny voice behind her protective wall of emotion, murmurs The Jewel-matrix...could there have been enough resonant power and Pattern in that for someone to draw on...maybe to create the Storybook Shadows...?

[TreyKincaide]

"I thank you for doing so." he reponds with a laugh.

[chalice]

"I have read about Rome. All that olive oil. No wonder you look so healthy now!"

She considers him. "You do, you know. Your injuries aside- you look wonderful. Healthy in - in yourself."

[TreyKincaide]

"I attribute it all to clean living," he responds as he grabs a glass of wine in one hand and flips out a cigarette in the other. "No, I feel good. Better than I have for a long time in spite of my scarring which you promised to take care of once Arthur gets here. The rest will come back with a healthy diet and strenuous excercise something I've been no stranger to recently. Maybe it's the company. I must have been infected by the mood."

[chalice]

Gray pours wine for herself and Dworkin, and tops up Eric's and Landon's glasses.

She holds up her own glass with mock-ceremony.

"Well," she says brightly. "To the reunion!"

[Wired*Nun]

Eric echoes the toast, and Dworkin murmurs, "Reunion indeed." There is a hint of irony in his voice, for those discerning enough to hear it. "Now let's have something to eat. I'm starving."

Leading them out of the - study? - Dworkin walks down a long hallway and into a large open kitchen, soot-stained and messy as everything else. Rummaging in a walk-in coldbox, he mumbles indistinctly, and soon drags out a large smoked ham. "Someone slice that up, will you?" Cheese comes next, and some onions, potatoes, cabbage. "I'm not much of a cook, anyone like to try to whip something up?" A wave of his hand in the direction of the stove indicates where to begin, but the pots must be scrubbed first, and before that soap and clean cloths must be located...it's not long before everyone has to pitch in just to do what needs to be done before what needs to be done is done.

"Well, I need to have visitors more often, if I can get them to clean my dwellings. Or maybe I need to get myself a servant...yes, that would do nicely. Something not too bright, but skilled at cleaning, and dangerous...what do you think?" This last question is directed at no one, or everyone.

[chalice]

Gray is careful to see that Landon doesn't over-exert himself in his injured state during all this activity.

"Well, I need to have visitors more often, if I can get them to clean my dwellings. Or maybe I need to get myself a servant...yes, that would do nicely. Something not too bright, but skilled at cleaning, and dangerous...what do you think?" This last question is directed at no one, or everyone.
Gray smiles at him affectionately. "How about something that can cook as well?" she suggests. "I don't mind cleaning while I'm here, but I'm a rotten cook."

[TreyKincaide]

Aside from stiff movements and some loss in range of motion, Landon seems to have no difficulties keeping up. He accepts the duties primarily of chopping things up and cooking if he has to. He says little as they go about their tasks slowly building up an appetite.

[Wired*Nun]

"Yes, cooking...well, that's not high on my list. If I want really good food, I just go visit Jopin..." Dworkin grimaces. "Eric, can you cook?"

"Of course, Sire," he says with a chuckle. "I wasn't always a King, nor a ghost." So Eric takes over, whipping up some fried ham with onion-cabbacge garnish, seasoned, with sauteed potatoes and a couple of dubious-looking bottles of red wine. One turns out to be quite good, while the other, Eric puts away for cooking something later.

They eat on a rough-hewn wooden table in the huge kitchen area, sharing around the food and stories from Gray's and Eric's former times. Landon feels a little left out, or perhaps, included in. This is the family I never had, in one of its good moments...maybe we just play with the cards we are dealt...heh, cards, that's rich.

The pitter-patter of little feet announces something coming. It turns out to be big feet, all twelve of them, as three wolfhounds burst into the kitchen and run over to the diners. Fortunately, none of them are so badly behaved as to knock anyone out of their chairs. Helena follows behind, beaming at the scene. Walking regally over to Landon, she kisses him firmly and says, "Good evening, husband. Good evening, everyone. Pardon the hounds, but they did so want to see Landon."

Introductions around, and Arthur sits down at Landon's chair, eyeing the ham bones speculatively. "Go on, knock yourself out," says Eric at the doggie look. With a glance for confirmation from Landon, Arthur grabs the bones in a flash, tossing one each to his mates before settling near the stove for a contented chew.

What some call the food coma hits hard after dinner, especially with the wine...Gray and Landon realize what a long, emotionally draining day it has been, and Dworkin looks sleepy as he rises from the table. "Thank you all, for the lovely time. It's been so long since I had visitors of this caliber. However, when you get as old as I am, sleep becomes an inviting mistress, and I go willingly to her bed. Good night." He walks down the hall, and into the bowels of his cavern complex.

"Well, I think I'll to bed as well. What, didn't think I need sleep? It's the mind that needs it even more than the body, and my mind is quite full right now. Good night, Landon," Eric says, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Good night Gray," he says kissing the top of her head. "Good night, Helena, nice to meet you." With that, he follows Dworkin on his journey toward temporary oblivion.

[chalice]

Gray has a warmly affectionate greeting for Arthur, and a shy one for Helena. She seems a little in awe of her brother's poised and beautiful wife.

By the time Dworkin and the ghost say their goodnights, she is happily curled up by the stove with Arthur, complimenting him in canid on the newest additions to his Pack and making sure he is as fully recovered as his enthusiastic entry would indicate. If not, she deals with any lingering injury or scarring.

After Dworkin and Eric leave, she uncurls and turns to Landon, affection and maybe a trace of teasing mischief shining in her eyes.

"Arthur's fine now. Wouldn't you like me to sort out those scars for you as promised, before we all....go to bed?"

[TreyKincaide]

"As if the scars stopped before but seeing as you're so anxious to take a look at my backside, Doc, who am I to argue?" mirth seeps from his voice as he brings himself to his feet. There is no concern in his features as he waits for his sister to do her magic.

[chalice]

"This won't work if you resist the changes, so try to relax and go with it..."

Cool hands rest on Landon's shoulders, tracing healthy flesh first, as she learns what should be, then moving on to the scarred areas below. Her touch is light and soothing; it feels as though she is literally drawing tension and pain out of flesh and muscle through her fingertips.

By now, Helena can see that Gray's eyes are glazed with deep concentration, and Landon can hear her breathing exactly sychronised with his own. And all pain is gone.

So much easier to focus when I'm not fighting the Voices...

Gray takes the time for a reassuring smile at her new sister-in-law, then - after one strange moment in which it feels as if her flesh and Landon's flow together somehow - begins to smooth out the scarring like wax, never pausing, never hurrying.

No need for a rush job like Heldrik's partial repair; I can do this properly.

Sensation comes back to the new skin as a fierce tingling, which fades in turn as unhurried healer's hands leave in their wake not the shiny pink of freshly-healed skin but the smooth perfection of skin that might never have been injured at all.

After [as long as this takes] Gray drops her hands, takes a deep, shaky breath and checks her work.

"You'll do," she tells Landon, mingled satisfaction and deep tiredness in her voice, sinking into the nearest chair.

I suppose if the...ghost...really does sleep, we could talk without being overheard now. Or could we? Dworkin took us right away earlier...I don't know how much more I'm up to thinking about today...and I don't know how much Landon confides in Helena...

[TreyKincaide]

Landon stretches the charred flesh gone. He slumps down in a chair in an easier motion than before, he looks up at Helena, "All better," he smiles. "Dear, I think I should rest a spell before Gray leads us to our chambers. We just ate, but I find myself famished."

He looks to Gray, "Thanks, Doc," he says as he breaks off a hunk of bread and tosses it to her. "You do good work. Ever think of taking it up as a profession?"

[chalice]

Gray smiles, fielding and nibbling at the bread.

"Actually," she says, simply "I've always thought healing is what I was born for. I've been trained for other things, but this - this is what comes naturally. It was my role in the Pack for years-" until the rage came... she looks down, tearing at the bread as an excuse for the unfinished sentence, not quite fast enough to hide the flash of pain in her eyes.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon notes Gray's reaction and turns to eating as a way of covering the uncomfortable silence.

What's a safe topic? There never appears to be one when it comes to Gray. Maybe Eric?

"So..." he pauses a bit awkward for the attempt, "what can you tell me about our father, a man that I've only known through others' memories, ghosts, and shadows?"

[chalice]

"I can tell you how happy it would have made him to know about you! He wanted a son so much...why, when even his ghost thought you were in trouble, he didn't hear a word I was saying until we found a way to try to help..." No trace of jealousy in the young voice, and her face is lit up at the memory.

"You would have made him complete, Landon. The way he loves me is different. Not less, you understand, or more. Just - different. I am what he had - you are what he longed for."

Gray thinks for a moment, eyes distant in the candlelight. "Of course, I don't have anything to offer but my own memories; and Random has already pointed out the rosy spectacles I may be looking through...still...I can tell you that he challenged mother for control of the weir...and she fought him to a standstill...and that, somehow, love came from that. She gave up the world for him and counted it well lost.

"I can tell you that to a child he was magical. A little frightening; a lot fascinating. He was someone you wanted to please. To - to serve. Someone you wanted to mean something to. And someone you wanted to make laugh. He never laughed enough...I could always get him to smile, though...

"And the stubbornest son-of-a-bitch you could hope to meet...he and mother used to fight like mad...he and I, occasionally. I recall I usually lost. But he never, you know - never treated me like an idiot, even if he thought I was talking nonsense...

"I don't think he liked being King much...not that the Curse gave him much of a chance...

"I thought him a good man. I still think so. And I see a lot of him in you, brother." She smiles. "I did from the beginning. And I don't think you have any idea how wonderful it was for me to find you existed..."

She regards him thoughtfully. "My turn. What was it like to grow up as you did - not needing to be Royalty, free to choose...?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon chews his food slowly mulling over things. It takes him awhile to speak. Only after he takes a drink, words dribble forth his eyes focused past her eerily reminencent of their earlier encounter with Dworkin. There's a strange sense of detachment that echo in his words almost as if he's watching a movie before him.

"I was always Royalty in a way. Forgive me, it's hard to explain." he begins slowly building momentum. "My earliest memories are of an orphanage in a land I don't know. Alone. With others, but still alone until she came. It's the first vivid memory I have and at the same time a dream, a dream that all orphans share. Even that day, she began grooming me."

He pauses. "Children cramp her style so I was handed off to tutors, nannies, and surrogates. I didn't complain in my new castle. Anything I wanted, I was given. Busy, she was always busy. Parties, and important people would show up and I'd be the good child that was seen and not heard. I was lonely, but I didn't care. She was important which meant that I was important because she wanted me."

"Maybe Random recognized it for what it was when we first met and pitied me, but he was fun and so different than her that we made fast friends. Propriety flew out the window when he was around. I'd use to sneak down just to savor the cigar smoke that wafted up when him and his buddies played cards and listen to their jam sessions." he grins. "She hated it, of course, his influence. Although she didn't mind when he began giving me piano lessons, he nutured a bit of a rebellious streak which she most assuredly didn't approve of."

"When I was old enough, I was sent away to school to be alone again." his eyes focus on Arthur, "She sent me Arthur to keep me content, and I couldn't have had a better friend. I saw less of her as time went on, and I became the royalty of that place mingling amonst the rich, the spoiled, and others of that ilk. I grew enamored of fast cars, bedding easy women, and silly games."

"For awhile, I never really thought I had a choice, you see. The reality she presented was far better than the one she found me in. I allowed myself to become what she wanted me to, because if I didn't, I might have to return from whence I came. It took something pretty drastic to make me realize that there are worse things." he shrugs. "I still don't know her motivations and might never find out why she did as she did, but I finally know that I am where I am because my own two feet got me here and they'll take me to where ever I'm going."

He simply returns to eating.

[chalice]

"Landon..." Gray seems at a loss momentarily, eyes misty with tears she forbids to fall.

"I don't know what to say to you.

"Maybe I understand, just a little. Father had her Shadow teach me for a while, you see. I remember how she was...easy to disappoint. How much I would do to see her smile. How invisible I always felt when she was around.

"I feel as if, somehow, I've stolen the childhood that should have been yours...so, there's just this-" she reaches over to place her hand over Landon's and tries to meet his eyes with hers.

"By...stealing...you, she saved you from what happened to me. From what would have killed someone without my regenerative gifts." And from the Primal liking you.

Looking slightly embarassed at her own intensity, she tries for a lighter tone. "Not that it mightn't have been welcome company to have someone else chained to the wall in the Tower, you understand."

Her fingers tighten their grip. "And for sparing you that - whether you ever forgive her or not - I will always be thankful to her. I didn't grow up alone, but I know what it is to become so. I lost everything - everyone - and then, there was you. And I wasn't alone after all." A soft wonder touches her face at the memory. "You are all my family now."

A lopsided smile, and: "Guess we're stuck with each other now, huh?"

She makes sure to include Landon's wife with a faintly anxious smile. "If you and Helena can put up with me from time to time, that is..."

[TreyKincaide]

"It was never a matter of forgiving her; there's nothing to forgive. I might still be wondering in Shadow and you might still be in your guilded Tower if she hadn't done as she did. An unintended outcome perhaps, but from where I'm sitting, a good one."

If you and Helena can put up with me from time to time, that is..."I don't know; you can be a pain in the ass," he chuckles as he teases before his voice quiets to a near whisper, "but I suppose our coming child should have an aunt to spoil him or her rotten. Give 'em candy, shake 'em up, and watch as we pull our hair out. Something I guess I'll have to learn to live with it" the mock regret in his voice betrays the intended warmth behind his words. "Let's keep that our little secret for the time being." he says with a wink. He yawns, "I was so hungry, I didn't realize how tired I am. Maybe we should call it a night when you're ready to show us to our room."

He blinks his eyes and Gray can see the weariness that he's fighting a loosing battle to.

[chalice]

He yawns, "I was so hungry, I didn't realize how tired I am. Maybe we should call it a night when you're ready to show us to our room."

He blinks his eyes and Gray can see the weariness that he's fighting a loosing battle to.Gray squeezes the hand she's holding, then lets go and stands up.

"Mm, good idea. It's been a really long day. Your room is this way. I think. It's so twisty here..."

She leads Landon and Helena to the room prepared for them earlier.

"Goodnight." She kisses them both in turn. "Do you think some of the Hounds would come and sleep in my room?" she adds, a little wistfully.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon stands and whistles once to ensure the dogs follow. He takes his wife by the hand as they follow Gray to their room.



"Goodnight." She kisses them both in turn. "Do you think some of the Hounds would come and sleep in my room?" she adds, a little wistfully.


"I don't mind, but it's up to them," he shrugs.

He follows his wife into their room and prepares to bed down for the evening when a stray thought crosses his mind. He tries to shrug it off, but eventually it wins out. As he undresses he asks in a very conversational tone, "Dear, how'd Corwin send you and the dogs? I thought he was going to do it by Trump."

He slides into bed awaiting her answer and her soft caress.

[Wired*Nun]

"Oh, he did. He sent us through one of his magic cards right into that cluttered room with the fireplace. He said to just go down the hallway and we should find you - and we did. He also said not to touch anything...as if I would in this filthy place, except to clean up perhaps. At least our quarters look all right." She peers into the corners as if expecting rats to come leaping out, and inspects the toilet facilities with a jaundiced eye.

Arthur, with a wink at Landon, leads his small pack out and down the hall to Gray's room. "Thought we'd join you. Silly homids like lots of privacy when they mate. I guess I would too if it was as complex as it seems with you people. It's a wonder you have any pups at all. You'd probably all die out if you couldn't do it all the time instead of only in heat!" He gives a doggie chuckle, and drags a blanket out of the closet to lie on. "Kind of cold in here...any chance of getting a fire started in that stove?"

Gray sees a couple of pieces of firewood, but not enough to keep warm all night.

[chalice]

"I'll...go see if I can find some more wood in the kitchen...if not, we'll all just have to cuddle up...get this started for you first, though..."

After doing what she can to start a fire in the stove for Arthur and his mates to curl up by, Gray makes her way quietly back to the kitchen - where she knows there are logs and a coal bucket - and collects what she needs to make a nice warm fire for her furry visitors.

Treading carefully down the hallway on her way back, she is arrested by the sight of herself in a dusty old wall mirror; dirty clothes, soot-streaked face, arms full of firewood.

First Sleeping Beauty...now Cinderella. Am I ever going to stop living in fairy tales? And do I ever get to go to the Ball...?

With the smallest of sighs, and a shake of the head at her own whimsical thoughts, she turns to go back to her room.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon chuckles, "Don't worry. We aren't going to be here that long. Gotta make sure Gray's okay, and see what else the ghost has to say before we dash off. I wouldn't worry too much about anything that lives here except for its owners. It's pretty much the Pattern, Dworkin, and any of their creations. He's old, half mad, and a patriarch to us all. Remember he's the father of the guy worshipped at the temple in Rome. You really can't expect him to notice things like cleanliness."

Landon stretches out enjoying the feel of his new soft flesh and the stark contrast to his previous scarring.

[Wired*Nun]

"Ghost? What ghost? I hope it's a friendly shade, but I am sure you can protect us if it is not, my husband. And the father of a god? Like the old Greek Zeus, I suppose? He was half mad too, half the time. I guess that makes him one-quarter mad?" She laughs at her own wit. "See, I did listen to the pedagogues when they taught the mathematics." Seeing him relaxing, she climbs gingerly onto the bed and lifts up his shirt.

"Oh, my, it looks all new, like baby skin! Does it...does it still hurt?"

[Wired*Nun]

Gray carries the fuel down to her room, and throws half a bucket of coal into the stove. That should keep it for a while... She then goes to explore the bathing facilities, which are adequate. Washing out her clothing, she realizes that she doesn't have much to wear, either. I wonder if Helena has something...good to be able to fit into any clothes if I need to.

[chalice]

Good never to have bad hair...her blue-black mane obediently wrings itself dry and Gray begins to braid it carefully, intricately, away from her face - without using her hands.

Used to be...oops!... good at this...like so...mmm, nice to be clean again...how come Landon never looks dishevellled?...Helena's so beautiful...I'm not sure she cares for us much...I wonder if I could do what Landon suggested...be a doctor...maybe go to 'college'...make a real life for myself away from all this...away from the past...

Nothing to wear...isn't that my fairy godmother's cue?...pumpkin time, more like, my girl...and what will you turn into at Midnight...?

They expect me to be frightened by the Primal's interest...and I am...but...at least it means me vaguely well...which is more than can be said for Amber, if one assumes Amber=Random....what am I supposed to do, hide from it? There's nowhere...except maybe...

The memory of silver hair and soul-searing eyes - and a snowflake-soft kiss on the hand - is vivid.

No. Not him. Not yet.

Gray sets her wet clothing near the stove to dry, adds more wood to the fire, and crawls thankfully beneath the bedcovers with a murmured 'G'night, Arthur.'

[TreyKincaide]

"Yes, the ghost. It's another shade of Eric like the one Corwin created when I originally came to Rome. It's friendly as long as the Pattern is and no longer."

"No, the skin doesn't hurt. It's a bit tender, but it's nice to have feeling back in once was dead flesh and exposed bone. I guess my suntan is ruined, though." he winks.

[Wired*Nun]

"Well, I think your new skin is...interesting. Like I'm robbing the cradle!" Her laughter tinkles through the room. "Let us try it out and make sure your sister did a good job..." Rolling over to straddle Landon still clothed, she holds down his elbows and looks into his face with mock severity.

"Good thing she is your sister, and one of the children of the gods, or I would have to be jealous of her healing magic. You seemed to be enjoying that just a bit too much...I suppose I'll have to remind you again why you married me..." A shift, and she tears off the covers. Warmth against warmth makes the world go away for a time.

[Wired*Nun]

The next morning finds Eric, if and when the sleepers awake, having de-cluttered the study a bit, sitting by the fire, his feet up and a cup of coffee in his hand. He is leafing through a leatherbound copy of the Book of the Unicorn.

[chalice]

You're still real then...

"Good morning, father," Gray stoops to kiss his cheek, before helping herself to coffee and collapsing cross-legged on the rug in front of the fire.

"What are you looking for?" she indicates the book.

[Wired*Nun]

He looks across at his daughter, and the one hound bitch that followed her all the way out, stretching out in the lazy way only a big dog can.

"Nothing, really. Just musing. Holy books are funny things, especially when you know you are part prophet, if you get my meaning. I see things in a different light than I did then. Hidden meanings...you've never been in love, have you? With a boy, a man, I mean, before? Or have you?"

[chalice]

"Hidden meanings...you've never been in love, have you? With a boy, a man, I mean, before? Or have you?"Gray shakes her head, blushing. "I - I don't think so. I'm not sure. I could have loved Loran, maybe, if I'd let myself. But I always knew it wouldn't be any good; that I'd have to leave home for Amber some day. So I didn't let myself."

She looks up at him thoughtfully. "If I really loved him I couldn't have done that, could I?"

She reaches out to bury her fingers in the hound's fur, and looks down and away, suddenly shy.

"Now...there might be someone. I don't know. I mean, I'm not sure, I - I know he likes me, and being with him feels right, but..." she frowns slightly, raising her eyes again. "It's almost too right to be true. He feels familiar to me, and that isn't possible. And I don't think his feelings are for me - not really. His wife looked like me. Just like, I mean. So much I think she might have been my Shadow. When he looks at me, I - don't know which one of us he sees..."

She bites her lip. "It's...complicated," she finishes, lamely.

"Why do you ask...?" she watches him carefully for any sign of displeasure.

[Wired*Nun]

Gray shakes her head, blushing. "I - I don't think so. I'm not sure. I could have loved Loran, maybe, if I'd let myself. But I always knew it wouldn't be any good; that I'd have to leave home for Amber some day. So I didn't let myself."

She looks up at him thoughtfully. "If I really loved him I couldn't have done that, could I?"

He smiles thoughfully, folding his hands over the book. "In love...no...but real love is about doing what you think is best for the other person, or, if you're lucky, for you both. Sometimes letting go is the best thing you can do for them...but that's not I meant. I meant, in love.


"Why do you ask...?" she watches him carefully for any sign of displeasure.

"I was just trying to draw an analogy...some things have to be experienced. Before you are ever in love, all the songs people sing about it seems stupid, insipid, maybe even nauseating. When you are, all those same songs seem to be expressing everything you feel. Maybe that's how it is with...well, scripture, prophecy, something like that. They seem dense, even laughable, until something clicks. You see something differently...then it starts to make sense. These things were written by beings bigger than ourselves. Not better, necessarily, or even wiser, as we know. Just...bigger. More powerful. Farther seeing, encompassing more. Certainly older...that's all. I'm just rambling... thinking..." He trails off, looking into the fire. He laughs, ironically.

"Here I am supposed to be helping you, but I don't even know how to help myself. I don't know what I am made of. Is my only purpose to help my children? Noble as that is, what then? Do I just get...erased, like a chalkboard?"

[TreyKincaide]

The next morning finds Landon in good spirits. He steps into the bathroom and regards himself in the new mirror.

A patch work man. Skin here; skin there. It lives!

He comes out into the bed slowly dressing himself, and stirs Helena. "You know, there really isn't anything to be jealous of dear. You'll always be the woman I look forward to waking up next to in the morning. I'm not sure about her healing abilities, but she might be able to teach you if you asked. I'm pretty sure that it's not like the Pattern where you have to be on any certain bloodline. Hell, I could teach you Sorcery if you wanted to learn. It's just that Pattern or the Logrus makes it easier."

[chalice]

"Here I am supposed to be helping you, but I don't even know how to help myself. I don't know what I am made of. Is my only purpose to help my children? Noble as that is, what then? Do I just get...erased, like a chalkboard?""No!" Gray's protest is unthinking and immediate. "I can't lose you again! I won't! There has to be a way you can stay...you said, Dworkin might be able to arrange flesh and blood, right? If the Primal would let you go..."

It hears what he does, doesn't it?

Looking steadily into the ghost's eyes, Gray says carefully and deliberately "If it would give you life, and your freedom...I think I would do anything in return."

I'm sorry, Grandfather, Landon...but I really haven't any choice. My freedom of action or his life? - no choice at all.

[Wired*Nun]

"That's all Greek to me, dear. If I can learn any of the healing arts, I would be very happy to. Those other things...some things are better left to gods and heroes. And you're mine." She leans up to kiss him on the chin. "And there's another one in here," she says, patting her stomach. "I think I'm starting to show...ah, well, there goes my girlish figure. Can Ag-Ag- your sister teach me how to heal that?"

A bumping at the door heralds a visitor, and opening it, they find Arthur and one of his mates. "I heard you talking," he said. "I know it's bad form to raid the kitchen without asking - any chance of breakfast?" The bitch licks her chops as an echo, and says, "Yes, hungry."

[TreyKincaide]

"Just call her Gray. I'm sure she won't mind."

Landon is startled when the bitch talks almost forgetting what Arthur said. He turns to Arthur, "Breakfast? Of course." he says absent mindedly as Helena gets dressed. "I've never been able to understand anyone but you?"

He follows the dogs to the kitchen after Arthur responds.

[Wired*Nun]

Something flickers behind Eric's eyes, something that frightens her for no reason she can put her finger on. Gratitude overwhelms it, as Eric smiles. "See, you do know what love is. So do I. I'm not going to encourage you to sell yourself, not cheaply, and not even for me. We'll try to find some way...I have to think..." He looks back down, at his folded hands across the book.

"I have to think," he repeats more firmly. Looking back up and tilting his head, he says, "Let's get some breakfast!" This discussion-ending declaration is followed by him getting to his feet and waving her toward the kitchen.

[Wired*Nun]

"Just call her Gray. I'm sure she won't mind."

Landon is startled when the bitch talks almost forgetting what Arthur said. He turns to Arthur, "Breakfast? Of course." he says absent mindedly. "I've never been able to understand anyone but you?"
"I'm making her speak correctly. Every species has a dialect so thick you humans might as well give it up, most times. You understood those lycans well enough, didn't you? She's limited by what she is, but she's not stupid. She can probably learn several hundred words, but she's never had to. She's the canine equivalent of a cave-woman - never needed to think above a pure animal level, and recognize some human-speech commands. I'm sure a little praise and head-scratching wouldn't hurt either, when she gets it right. The hard part will getting her to learn to hear human language but speak in canine. I'm used to it."

He flips his head, making his ears flop, bares his teeth and growls good-naturedly. "Feed me, master! Or I take a bite out of that pretty pink man-flesh you have sticking out of your shirt there." He laughs, and nips at Landon's rear end.

[chalice]

Gray and the hound head to the kitchen with the Eric.

Gray at once finds some leftovers to put down for her canine friend, and for Arthur and his other bitch, then offers: "I'll make a proper breakfast - if someone'll teach me how to cook!"

[TreyKincaide]

I'm sure a little praise and head-scratching wouldn't hurt either, when she gets it right. The hard part will getting her to learn to hear human language but speak in canine. I'm used to it.
"I'll keep that in mind," he smiles and bends down scratching them both.

"Feed me, master! Or I take a bite out of that pretty pink man-flesh you have sticking out of your shirt there." He laughs, and nips at Landon's rear end.
"Whoa." he says as he laughs and stands up. "You're getting awful bossy now. Maybe it's time to take you to the vet for shots." he teases as they continue on into the kitchen.

[chalice]

"Morning, Landon, Helena. Morning, Arthur, and *bitchfriend*. Come in if you dare - dad's teaching me to cook!"

[TreyKincaide]

"I couldn't say no if I wanted to. Arthur threatened to maul me if he didn't get something to eat." he grins. Him, Helena, and the dogs file in.

[chalice]

*Oh, I already got breakfast for you* Gray tells Arthur and the bitch in canid, gesturing to the generous bowls of leftover ham.

She smiles at Landon and Helena, switching back to human speech, and pouring coffee for them. "Human meals are more complicated, but I think I should be able to handle breakfast..."

She does...just about...the cooked bits aren't too badly burned, and the scrambled eggs not burned at all (even if they were meant to be omelettes).

"Landon, you never introduced me properly to Arthur's mates. Haven't they names?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon eats and tries not to make faces at his sister's cooking.

Landon, you never introduced me properly to Arthur's mates. Haven't they names?

"I don't know to tell you the truth. We...ahem...'appropriated' them while on a short vacation to Shadow Earth because Arthur was getting lonely. When we got back, I went directly away with Arthur to try to get us both killed. Haven't really thought about it until now that you mention it."

He pauses for a moment and smiles embarrasedly. "Oh, that's right. Shanna and Rinna. Arthur told me, and I forgot with all that's happened."

[chalice]

Gray looks to the two bitches.

*Pretty names, little sisters* she says politely.

Then she looks back at Landon. "I've been thinking about what you said last night - about taking up being a doctor full-time. I know you were joking, but - do you think I could do that, somewhere out in Shadow? Maybe Shadowearth?

"I should really plan to go Home and help with the rebuilding, but-" she grimaces "- the Guard would get all 'Second Coming' about me being there again, and I don't think I could handle it just yet." Maybe never.

[TreyKincaide]

"I'm sure you could if you wanted to. I don't know if I'd go to Shadow Earth if I were you, though. There are better places to go to stand on your own two feet than Flora's backyard. Actually, Helena was saying last night how much she'd like to learn how be a healer as well. Seeing as she's seen me beat up more often than not, I can't really say I blame her," he winks.

"The Guard are your people, but they can probably stand to wait until you're ready."

[chalice]

"I'm sure you could if you wanted to. I don't know if I'd go to Shadow Earth if I were you, though. There are better places to go to stand on your own two feet than Flora's backyard. Actually, Helena was saying last night how much she'd like to learn how be a healer as well. Seeing as she's seen me beat up more often than not, I can't really say I blame her," he winks.

Gray smiles shyly at Helena. "I'd be pleased to teach you what I know...sister," she offers. Her smile becomes conspiratorial; girls-together. "He certainly seems to need a lot of looking after, doesn't he?"

She pushes away the unfinished remains of her breakfast. "Maybe in return, you could teach me to cook?" she adds, ruefully.


"The Guard are your people, but they can probably stand to wait until you're ready."

Gray shakes her head decidedly. "They aren't my people. Not anymore. None of them remember me as anything other than the zombie in the tower." She looks very directly at Landon. "They want legends. That being the case, they would welcome either of us with open arms. So if you ever need a place to stay..." or to hide

She grins. "Actually, they'd probably follow you even more happily than me, since someone" a mock-severe look for her father, "rather steered them away from the notion of female leadership..."

[Wired*Nun]

"Yes," he says, watching the interplay. "And I stand by it. You are the exception that proves the rule. Besides, what shining examples of female upstandingness and leadership did I have? Moire? Certainly not our sisters, mothers or aunts, your mother excluded." He looks at her, waiting for 'the look.'

"What? You want me to be internally consistent at all times? Coming from you, that's rich!" He laughs, to show he is not being cutting, but she wonders. There were times...it's not like he was the nicest guy around, always...