Rebis

[Wired*Nun]

"Landon is - is very dear to me, Rebis. I can't just wait around while people discuss the 'right' thing to do next. Will you help me?"Before Rebis can reply, a flash of light descends from the chandelier overhead, and Rebis and Gray find themselves standing on a marble floor of black, with silver filigree.

Rebis feels the transport as if through a gateway, a connection betwen two shadows, in a manner he finds very unfamiliar. It was so fast, and so unexpected, that he had no time to react.

The room is about forty feet by twenty. Stained glass windows let in beams of light, which must be artificial because they intersect at various places on the floor. The room is in the form of a place of worship, with an altar and places to kneel, or sit farther back. There is no door.

A gorgeous, idealized painting of Corwin adorns the wall above the altar, and draws the eyes of the two. As they look at it, they hear a chuckle, and a kin of clicking sound, from behind them.

"Amusing, this place, isn't it?" They turn to see a slim man of ordinary height, colored rather like Rebis - whitish skin, white hair bound back in a simple ponytail. "A temple to worship one as a god, who then chanced to ascend to such heights after the fact. The problem is, of course, that godhood has a way of making lesser concerns...well, even lesser, don't you think?"

[chalice]

Faced suddenly with the painted likeness of Corwin, Gray is unable to stop a small, animal-like sound of pure terror from escaping her lips.

She shrinks back against one wall, as far as she can get from the image, Rebis and the newcomer, looking between Rebis and the other man with equal suspicion, eyes bright and face feral in the multi-coloured light.

Control slipping, she feels her fingernails shift to claws, her eyes to wolf silver, teeth sharpen...then - just - she takes hold of herself again.

"Who...are you?" her voice comes out as little more than a whisper, forced past the fear in her throat.

[Tamarind]

"He is Merlin's brother, Mandor Sawahl."

How did he achieve this? The Logrus defence didn't even slow it down...

"It would seem so, from what I have learned. Why have you brought us here, Mandor?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Oh, it wasn't me, Rebis, I'm just a reluctant servant of the Crown. You're not following the script, so I'm here to do an edit. Can't go spilling the beans this early in the play, can we?" Mandor stands, his left hand absentmindedly rotating three metal balls with his fingertips, palm upwards. "Pardon me for the abrupt transport, but it was safer than other alternatives. Your pardon also, milady. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Mandor, of the house of Sawall. Half-brother, if the truth be known. Older half-brother, not to put too fine a point on it." He makes a sweeping bow to Gray, right hand almost touching the floor. His ruffled white shirt and black trousers make him look like a prestidigitator or a player in an acting troupe, rather than one of the more powerful nobles of Chaos.

"To retrieve Rebis, it was necessary to take you along as well, as it seemed that he was not going to be separated from you any time soon, and he cannot be allowed to warn Amber at this time. For that, I apologise, and assure you that you will be returned your freedom just as soon as it is feasible."

Rebis does see that the Logrus is active in Mandor, and there are some very interesting interconections among the metal balls, some constructs of sorcery, and the Logrus tendrils swirling around Mandor's hand. It may be worth whatever inconvenience just to learn how all that works...

[chalice]

"To retrieve Rebis, it was necessary to take you along as well, as it seemed that he was not going to be separated from you any time soon, and he cannot be allowed to warn Amber at this time. For that, I apologise, and assure you that you will be returned your freedom just as soon as it is feasible."
It's a strange captor, that apologises to a captive...

"You took us too late, demon lord. Word will reach Amber without us," says Gray, as evenly as she can.

Don't make him angry, ma petite. Let me talk to him...you are out of your depth, non?

Something about the Chaos lord appeals to the personality Gray's analyst used to label 'Three', and her form reacts involuntarily to the lilting French voice in her head. As if it might help, she presses both hands (human now, slender and lovely) to her temples, covering her ears.

No! I don't want you, go away...

"Go away..." she whispers, though not, seemingly, to either of the men present.

[Wired*Nun]

"Demon lord? I don't think I have any demon blood, but one never knows for sure around here. And heresay will reach Amber, I am sure, but that's quite different from a live witness to events. Hmmmm...milady, you seem to be having a certain amount of difficulty, would you like some assistance?" He takes several slow steps toward her, holding out his right hand as if to touch her face with the back of his fingertips.

"I can bolster your control of your abilities...and, given time, I can teach you how to make that improvement permanent. We of Chaos have some small experience with such changes and...discomfitures. Let me help." His expression is regal, but kind; detatched, but supremely confident. He could do it...

[Tamarind]

Glancing at Agraynel, he notes her fluctuating appearance with concern

"Please accept my apologies, I deeply regret that you have suffered such an intolerable act as a result of meeting me."

As Mandor moves towards Agraynel Rebis steps between them, anger flaring in his eyes, his tone remains calm however, neutral and measured

She probably doesn't need my help, but I am the reason she has been kidnapped liked this..I owe her some assistance for that

"I was not aware there was a script to be followed, Mandor. Clearly if I had known I would never have dreamt of inconveniencing you all so by actually acting with some semblance of free will. Perhaps you would be so good as to explain what is intended now?"

As he speaks Rebis is studying their surroundings, seeking signs of the expected wards that might prevent their escape and any possible weakpoints within such barriers.

[chalice]

Gray continues to watch Mandor like a rabbit trapped in headlights, her expression fearful. Not afraid of him so much now as her own urge to say yes, make it stop, take it away...help me...

She is actually raising one hand slowly towards his when Rebis steps between them and speaks, at which point she snatches it back to cover her mouth.

[Wired*Nun]

The room is composed of a pocket shadow, with at least one Way located near the back of the chapel. There is no other way to leave, as far as he can tell.

"Rebis, shall we not put off our debate until the lady has had an opportunity to regain her composure?" His voice takes on a somewhat colder tone, as he goes on, "Or are you denying her my assistance for some particular reason?" His right hand falls as Rebis interposes himself, and his left hand comes up, threat implicit in the floating metal spheres.

[Tamarind]

He is quick to threaten, perhaps not surprising given his reputation

"I seek to deny the lady nothing, Lord Mandor, her choices are her own to make. I merely wished to allow her a moment to reflect on your generous offer - if she chooses to avail herself of your assistance I would not presume to interfere."

Would that others extended the same courtesy...

[chalice]

Him or me, petite? Him or me...you want to let go, don't you?...

I know who I am. Who I am is nobody.

Gray looks back at Mandor.

"Help me," she says.

Please help me.

[Tamarind]

At Agraynel's words Rebis steps aside, concern showing for a moment in his eyes. He continues to observe Mandor closely, dividing his attention between him and the Way

Objectively if he were to be distracted it would be an ideal moment to seek to depart...but I will not leave her at Mandor's mercy until I know more of his motives. She put her trust in me.

Also I am curious as to whether he and Merlin really do espouse this madness of Corwin's. And this weave around his hand is intriguing...

[Wired*Nun]

A slight smile comes to Mandor's ageless face. A smooth juggle, and one of the spheres floats toward Gray. "Step away from the wall, please, just a little." Assuming she does so, the sphere begins a slow rotation around her head, at about a foot's distance.

Gray immediately feels a damping of the urge to shift, to change, to react. The voices in her mind fade, leaving her clear-headed, as clear-minded as she has ever been since waking up. Like a soothing balm on a chronic wound, the relief is palpable, and powerful. There is a silence in her own psyche that promises peace. Is this what normal people feel like?

From Rebis' point of view, the logrus tendril passes through the sphere, then divides. There are delicate microtendrils, dozens of them, probing and pushing at the boundaries of her mind, readjusting. After about thirty seconds, it stabilizes, collapsing and detaching itself from the sphere, forming a net around her head.

"That will maintain itself for some time, perhaps as long as a week, especially if you refrain from shapeshifting. The more you shift, or do other things like use Trump, it will degrade. If you access Pattern, it will probably cause a tremendous headache, and will destroy the effect in short order."

"More permanent solutions would involve exercises we teach our kind to help them control their shapeshifting and the madness that can result from Logrus. These are well within your capability, if you care to learn, but it will take time."

Turning to Rebis, he says blandly, "Now, shall we discuss this like proper Lords of Chaos, or shall we test each other's prowess in the Arts? Or shall we fight a duel? All are allowable, as Suhuy doubtless taught you."

[chalice]

"That will maintain itself for some time, perhaps as long as a week, especially if you refrain from shapeshifting. The more you shift, or do other things like use Trump, it will degrade. If you access Pattern, it will probably cause a tremendous headache, and will destroy the effect in short order."Any of the things I might have tried for escape...

"And so you netralise my madness and me at the same time?"

With tears of sheer relief still wet on her face, Gray is unable to feel bitter at the cage she has just walked into so willingly - the silence and stillness just feel too good. Too good to risk losing.

"I expect it is foolish to thank you for that, but I do anyway."


"More permanent solutions would involve exercises we teach our kind to help them control their shapeshifting and the madness that can result from Logrus. These are well within your capability, if you care to learn, but it will take time."
Be a good girl, and there'll be sweeties later...but where else could I find such aid? Not from my own people...to be able to feel like this all the time...what would that be like? What woud I be like?

Gray gives him the ghost of her old, sweet smile and goes on marvelling at the wonderful feeling of peace and clarity as Mandor and Rebis talk.

[Tamarind]

Rebis watches with undisguised interest, fascination replacing thoughts of escape as he studies the weaves - and attempts to determine their purpose

He certainly seems to have done as he offered, though I would be happier if I could confirm that these weaves do only as he suggested. That would take me much longer to determine though - clearly there is much I could learn from him, were circumstances to permit it.

Such is his focus that Mandor's words and suggestion of a duel take him somewhat by surprise,

"I have always preferred reason to conflict, Lord Mandor, I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this situation - particularly as it seems we may have similar sentiments. Perhaps first you could clarify your earlier comments - you described yourself as a reluctanct servant of the Crown in this matter?"

[Wired*Nun]

"And so you neutralise my madness and me at the same time?""And offer you the key to its undoing, yes."

"I expect it is foolish to thank you for that, but I do anyway."His look somewhat mock-severe, he says, "It is never foolish to thank someone for a gift, no matter what the circumstances."

Perhaps first you could clarify your earlier comments - you described yourself as a reluctanct servant of the Crown in this matter?""Before I answer you, let us sit and break bread together. It may smooth things somewhat..."

Walking to the back of the chapel, he gestures at a comfortable setting of sofa and chairs, a low table between. The Way is easily visible right there in the floor, just a few steps from Rebis.

The balls disappear into his clothing somewhere, and Mandor makes a complex gesture in the air, bringing forth a setting of coffee, tea, biscuits and petite-fours, on a sparkling white tablecloth. That spell wasn't hung...he cast it from scratch, faster than anyone I've ever seen...I hope that's just because he has a great deal of practice with culinary magic...

[chalice]

The balls disappear into his clothing somewhere, and Mandor makes a complex gesture in the air, bringing forth a setting of coffee, tea, biscuits and petite-fours, on a sparkling white tablecloth. That spell wasn't hung...he cast it from scratch, faster than anyone I've ever seen...I hope that's just because he has a great deal of practice with culinary magic...
Gray moves over to perch on the edge of one of the chairs, carefully choosing a position that means she doesn't have to look at Corwin's portrait.

"If I am to accept your hospitality, I should give you my name," she says to Mandor. "It's Agraynel, but I prefer Gray, if you would care to use that?"

[chalice]

[OOC: Post for Rebis sent to Chalice via email as Tam has lost Internet connection just now]


Impressive skill indeed. And a promising start hopefully...

Rebis pauses whilst Gray introduces herself then bows and moves to one of the chairs, setting his precious bundle on the floor beside him. "Thank you, Lord Mandor. I would be honoured to break bread with you"

[Wired*Nun]

The lights overhead flicker a bit, though a glance above shows nothing but magical chandeliers. He bows again, gravely. "I am pleased to meet you, Lady Agraynel. Again, I apologise for the delay, but as we all know, one ignores royal requests at one's peril. This segues nicely into Lord Rebis' question regarding my actions and motivations."

"The King asked me for a favor, and I owe him several. For me, as long as there is no fundamental conflict with my own values, I treat a request of this nature as an instruction. However, I have broad discretion." Here, a slight smiles plays about his lips, and he turns to address Rebis. "I was asked to delay you for some time, to give events a chance to run their course without your interference. I chose to do it in this manner, and would fain view it as whiling away the time chatting with my extended family, than acting as jailer. You may choose to view your circumstances similarly, or you may rail against inevitability. I have prepared enough safeguards to handle any eventuality. I only regret that I did not have you brought here sooner, and so avoid having to inconvenience the young Lady. Still, it has its benefits. I am something of a devotee of the ladies of Amber."

[chalice]

"You need not regret that," says Gray softly. "if you had taken Rebis sooner, I would have missed something I have greatly longed for - news of my brother. It is worth some...inconvenience...to know that he is alive."

[Tamarind]

"It seems I should thank you for choosing to perform his request in this civilised fashion, Lord Mandor. I am genuinely pleased to have this opportunity to meet with you, though I will not pretend that I enjoy having my freedom curtailed in this manner. I mean no disrespect but I would have thought that there were less drastic means His Majesty King Merlin could have employed, such as perhaps communicating his desires to me? With no knowledge of the script he apparently wishes me to follow it is unsurprising that I erred from it... And I confess I still do not understand why he would wish to conceal these actions of Corwin's at all - without knowledge of Corwin's involvement it would seem all but inevitable Amber will conclude that Chaos has assaulted the Patterns, surely not a desirable outcome?"

[chalice]

Absent-mindedly, her attention on the two Chaos Lords, Gray reaches for a biscuit and begins to nibble.

[Wired*Nun]

"Ahh, to be so young. Rebis...do you suppose that the Courts are somehow united in their desires? Do you think they are devoid of backstabbing, politicking, jockeying for advantage? Merlin keeps them all struggling with each other, with him as the most powerful politician of them all. But the art of ruling is the art of threat and promise, carrot and stick. If one has to carry out a threat, one has already made a mistake. So what do you imagine would happen if Merlin were to lay out the whole thing in front of the Assembly of the Houses?"

[Tamarind]

"I concede that my experience of politics is limited - after all my upbringing did not afford me many opportunities in that sphere - but I do appreciate that there are many competing factions with widely differing agendas,"

A slight smile touches his lips,

"after all even a cursory study would reveal as much..but I did not suggest that His Majesty should make a speech declaring his intentions to all, merely that if he wished me to follow a particular course of action then perhaps he should have instructed me as to what that course might be?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Blithely implying that you would have followed royal instructions before is begging the question. Issuing such instructions is in itself risky. Perhaps you would refuse. Perhaps someone would find about that it was a mission rather than a whim of yours. Perhaps he did not wish your actions to be traceable to him. Perhaps he gambled on his expectation of your leanings, and lost. Who would have thought you'd go directly to Amber with this information, in the face of so many reasons not to." He pours himself a cup of coffee, and continues.

"So this is now in the nature of damage control. Why did you decide to run to Amber, rather than, for example, to seek counsel of someone you trust in Chaos? You are one of Suhuy's favorite pupils...as I was so long ago. He would have heard you out, and perhaps, dissuaded you. Or is that why you did not? That you did not wish to be dissuaded? When the fate of universes hangs in balance, are you operating on personal prejudices and desires?" He waves an airy hand, saying, "Well, at least you won't be the first one to do that."

[Tamarind]

"I do not see that there were many reasons not to 'run to Amber' as you phrase it , they had sent an investigator who would certainly conclude that this was an attack upon Amber's interests by Chaos - hardly a desirable conclusion, especially when false. Furthermore this was a conclusion they would reach as a result of my actions. Faced with such a prospect I felt an obligation to act to ensure this did not occur, to resolve the situation I had unwittingly contributed to. My heritage would I thought serve to gain me a hearing and as I had witnessed the events first hand I could provide irrefutable testimony that Chaos was not responsible. In addition once I had left his realms Corwin would probably expect me to seek aid from Chaos, not Amber and so would be more likely to seek me in that direction - hence heading to Amber reduced the likelihood of his intercepting me."

He pauses, then continues in a quieter voice,

"And there was another reason. Lord Suhuy had forbidden me to return to Chaos, had set me to wander Shadow to gain an education. I believe he wished me to learn how to live for myself, to experience the freedom of choosing my own actions, take the responsibility of dealing with their consequences...how could I do this if I sought his aid at the very first challenge? I would not dissappoint him so..."

[chalice]

Gray looks a little uncomfortable at having to 'listen in' on this debate, but at this point she adds a question of her own:

"Rebis, did Corwin offer you any proof that he spoke for your King in the matter of commanding your involvement? After all," she spreads her hands in a pacifying gesture, "any man may use another's name. If someone I had no reason to trust claimed to be giving me an order from Amber, I'd want proof."

[Tamarind]

"No, he did not...they offered no proof for any of their claims"

[chalice]

Gray looks between Mandor and Rebis, puzzled. "In the absence of this, you decided not to assist them. That does not seem unreasonable to me."

She frowns slightly. "What doesn't make sense to me is dragging you back here, actually. Letting you get to Random, that would have been smart, if they really don't want to start trouble between Amber and the Courts. Random would have known they 'let' you go, so he would have known they were finding a way to keep him informed, and that might just have stopped him being as furious as he is going to be when he finds out anyway. And it could all have been covered up nicely as him meeting his long-lost grandson."

She doesn't sound critical or upset - more like someone thinking aloud about an interesting puzzle.

"So...to me, as an outsider, what this all says is that Corwin and Merlin have decided the King of Amber isn't worth worrying about, does not deserve even basic courtesy and will happily overlook having his subjects - not to mention his grandson - kidnapped as and when they feel like it. And that they don't mind him knowing that they assume this. You know - I've only met Random twice, but I rather doubt he is going to react well to being treated like the sidelined and manipulated baby brother.

"In fact, it is hard not to conclude that they would actually be quite happy for real trouble - maybe another war - to start over this between Amber and Chaos, as a distraction."

She looks at Mandor thoughtfully.

And I think you agree with some of that...or your timing in seizing Rebis wouldn't have been so...unfortunately-just-too-late. You stopped him delivering the news - as requested - but made sure it will still reach Random? Neat.

She turns her head to gaze at the portrait. "Of course, Corwin has always been happy to damage Amber when it suited his purposes," she says, and now her voice is bitter, "and to use Chaos to do it."

[Wired*Nun]

"That is quite an incisive analysis, Lady Gray. Given the number and quality of the facts you have, it seems quite reasonable. However, there is much more to the situation than meets the eye, undercurrents...Rebis, once you had assisted with the nefarious deed," with an ironic lift of his eyebrows, "what made you decide that it would be viewed as an attack upon Amber's interests...rather than, for example, upon Corwin's?"

She turns her head to gaze at the portrait. "Of course, Corwin has always been happy to damage Amber when it suited his purposes," she says, and now her voice is bitter, "and to use Chaos to do it."
"Yes, that is quite so. Hubris, pride, arrogance...selfishness..all things present in abundance, wouldn't you say? We all think we know best, myself included. We wouldn't be who we are if it were otherwise."

"Rebis, perhaps if you review the events for me I can give you some assistance in helping you figure out your next move. Perhaps I can even help secure that which is most valuable to you. As I said, I have broad discretion in these matters, and I am under no obligation to simply follow instructions blindly, especially if I believe some other course is better for the Realm." At this, he casually folds both hands in front of him, sans spheres, and releases his hold upon the Sign. A gesture of good faith? Or bait for a trap?

[chalice]

Gray turns in her armchair to look over at Rebis, propping her chin on one hand.

"Actually, I'd love to hear the full story too," she admits.

"And, afterwards, if you like, I can tell you both how the news was received in Amber - since I happened to be present when Fiona informed Random."

[Tamarind]

When Mandor releases his hold upon the Sign Rebis pauses for a moment, then follows suit before replying,

"The destruction of a Pattern, albeit a reflection, clearly represents a weakening of Order. For millenia Amber has epitomised the forces of Order, and for millenia Chaos has been Amber's enemy. Once it becomes apparent that this attack against Order was enacted by Chaos it is only natural that it will be viewed, by both sides, as an assault against Amber's interests. I do not believe that the sub-division of interest you imply would be material, the principle large-scale effect is a reduction in the power of Order and I believe it would primarily be perceived as such. Once Corwin's plan to expand his attentions to reflections of the Primal Pattern is enacted this would become a certainty. Furthermore having shown one attack to be linked to Chaos it would not even be necessary for the subsequent attacks to be directly attributable - their origin would be assumed. Hence the necessity to provide the truth to Amber as rapidly as possible - before they become irrevocably convinced that Chaos is indeed responsible and act accordingly."

"Rebis, perhaps if you review the events for me I can give you some assistance in helping you figure out your next move. Perhaps I can even help secure that which is most valuable to you.
A family..my father? Hope shows for a moment in his eyes...

"I fully accept that a better understanding of the situation will assist in choosing the best course - I will recount the events for you as I recall them, then perhaps you could expand upon the nature of these undercurrents you allude to?"

"As I indicated earlier Lord Suhuy - my mentor in the ways of the Logrus and the Arts an - had bade me journey in Shadow, to go where I would for a time that I might experience the world outside the classroom for myself. I set off from Yggdrasil, purposing to head to Amber to learn of the other side of my heritage and to meet my family...and my father."

Hope and trepidation show plainly in his eyes, he pauses for a moment then continues, recounting in detail the events that lead him from Yggdrasil, culminating with his decision to escape from Corwin's realms and proceed as rapidly as possible to Amber. Throughout he adopts a detached tone, it seems he is used to provided reports of events without embellishment.

"I now know that my initial difficulty in reaching Amber was a result of Corwin's will drawing me into his realms - and I strongly suspect that this manipulation was also responsible for the scenario of Lakeshore, a means to ensure my continuing presence there..."

[Wired*Nun]

"Thank you, that was helpful. I happen to agree, in the main, with your asessment of my brother's actions - that they represent an error on his part, tactical if not strategic. However, it's not that simple."

"His mother, Duchess Dara, is his main political opposition, and always has been - House Hendrake, of course. She has secured her position as head of the House by the usual unprovable poisonings and unfortunate accidents. Still, being the warriors they are, the Hendrakes want to go about setting the balance right by direct, military means."

"They propose to assault the Broken Patterns' defenders, if any, and use means of Power - perhaps Logrus, perhaps high sorceries, perhaps the blood of any mixed-breeds like yourself - perhaps even primal Chaos itself - to destroy these things. Unfortunately, Hendrake actually has a majority of the Houses behind them."

"They have been agitating to convene a Grand Assembly to try to force Merlin to do their will in this - to begin attacking the outlying bastions of Order. I believe they will argue that Amber is too busy right now with other concerns to respond effectively, and will not commit its forces at the outer fringes, where Chaos is strongest and Order weakest. Even so, it will be open, if limited, war. Their belief is, perhaps, that by not threatening the core of Amber's power - the Golden Circle shadows, which are really all they care about - Random will have to pull back, tacitly ceding these territories because he cannot hold them anyway."

"So I am sure both of you can now see what Merlin's strategy is..."

[chalice]

"So I am sure both of you can now see what Merlin's strategy is..."Gray frowns. "I get it - except for not informing Random. I'm choosing to believe he hasn't been informed, and isn't turning a blind eye, because I prefer to believe he wouldn't sanction kidnapping Landon, a Crown agent under his protection, and almost getting him killed - which I understand would have happened had Rebis not exercised restraint in his attack." She makes no attempt to hide the biting anger in her voice - but at least it is a cold anger, and she is able to go on in level tones.

"One of the reasons Amber is 'too busy with other concerns' right now is that they are occupied thinking Landon's disappearance - and I suppose mine too, now - are linked to the recent assassination of Gerard's son. Since it seems the two are not connected, I assume someone has been taking steps to ensure Amber's distraction...perhaps we should be looking towards Chaos, not elsewhere for Joss's murderers...

"Snatching me as well as Landon is going to indicate Corwin in a good old fashioned vendetta kind of way, so maybe focus will shift a little.

"Anyway - for the record - this is how I heard Fiona give the news to Random:

'I just got a report from one of my people out in deep Shadow, toward Corwin's Pattern. As far as I can tell, there has been a small but significant shift in the balance, back toward Chaos. They must have done something, made some kind of move, maybe against that Pattern.'

"So anyone who wanted Chaos blamed can be thoroughly happy so far, I guess."

She chews her lower lip, thinking. "Mm - there is one way not telling Random makes 'sense', if we stretch the meaning of the word. Even a limited war would give this martial House - Hendrake? - something to do and get them out of Merlin's way and off his back, yes? And a larger-scale war than they planned might deplete them sufficiently to cancel out his main opposition...? Because however 'distracted' Amber is with other things, as long as Benedict can turn his attention this way, I don't think we need worry too much about whether the rest of the Family can come along to spectate...."

[Tamarind]

Merlin's strategy would seem to be desperate, or at least seriously flawed. For the very short term Hendrake might be negated in their pressures if the balance were to be restored by other means...but if what they want is a war it won't hold them long. And others will wish to investigate the cause - if they do so and trace it to the King's father they may react badly...and even worse they may be noticed by Amber, lending more credence to the theory that Chaos is responsible. But the assassination of Gerard's son makes all this irrelevant, regardless of whether Merlin's strategy ever had any merits it has been completely superceded by these developments...

"My Lord Mandor, with the situation in Amber that Princess Agraynel describes it is clearly even more critical that King Random be made aware of the true facts of the situation as rapidly as possible - otherwise he and Amber may quite reasonably conclude that the assassination of Gerard's son, the kidnap of Landon and Agraynel and the destruction of a Broken Pattern represent an orchestrated assault against Amber and its interests, as they may well be. Once shown evidence of Chaos' involvement in one of these it will be easy to conclude that they are responsible for all - a conclusion that will lead to reprisals. Even in a benevolent political climate it would be hard to avoid escalation from such a point - in the climate you describe it would seem all but inevitable."

He pauses for a moment,possibilities coalescing into a disturbing image,

"And if there are factions in Amber that share Hendrake's desire for war then such escalation could be swift and drastic...leaving both sides depleted and vulnerable. Which may be precisely the outcome that is desired, for unless Chaos is indeed behind these events then another party must be involved...My Lord, earlier you mentioned the good of the Realm. I beseech you let us convey this news to Random before it is too late - if we can reach him before he learns that Princess Agraynel has also disappeared we may be able to persuade him that Chaos is not responsible for these attacks. If not I fear Hendrake will have the war they hunger after..."

I hope we are not too late...

[Wired*Nun]

I'm choosing to believe he hasn't been informed,"Not officially, no. And Rebis running to Random could put it all out into the open, and that, we cannot have."

because I prefer to believe he wouldn't sanction kidnapping Landon,"I'm sure that part wasn't of Random's making...have you thought about the possibility that it was a setup from the start? That Landon wanted to be taken out of that situation at the apropriate moment? That confusion provides opportunity?"

perhaps we should be looking towards Chaos, not elsewhere for Joss's murderers"I believe I know who murdered your cousin. I can't prove it - and no, I won't tell you, for if I obtain proof, the information will go to your elders. If I do not, I will not throw more speculation into the pot."

"Snatching me as well as Landon is going to indicate Corwin in a good old fashioned vendetta kind of way, so maybe focus will shift a little."You won't be gone long, milady. We shall be returning you forthwith. Rebis will be staying a bit longer.


Even a limited war would give this martial House - Hendrake? - something to do and get them out of Merlin's way and off his back, yes? And a larger-scale war than they planned might deplete them sufficiently to cancel out his main opposition...?
"And there you have the heart of it, I believe. Hendrake must be given something to do. Merlin will allow them a cheap victory or two, then, I suspect, when they are overconfident, will ensure a bloody defeat that will curb their ambitions for a generation. At least, that's what I would do in his place. However, he has to be pushed into it. He has to seem to be trying to work it out on his own, and reluctantly give in to Hendrake and their allies' pressure. Only in this way can he maintain the moral high ground, and once they lose, his position will be even stronger."

My Lord Mandor, with the situation in Amber that Princess Agraynel describes it is clearly even more critical that King Random be made aware of the true facts of the situation as rapidly as possible"And when she goes back, and talks to Random, that will be exactly what has transpired. Otherwise I wouldn't be telling her all this, now would I?"

If not I fear Hendrake will have the war they hunger after..."
"Oh, they shall have it. They shall raise armies out of Shadow, commanded and led by the finest warriors Chaos can produce. They will be met by the finest military mind ever to put foot to ground, with shadow troops of his own. And whomever in Amber that goes leaping to assist him will reveal themselves to be either witting or unwitting parties to this conspiracy."

"You also need to remember that no one, save Random himself I believe, is above suspicion in this matter. On the Amber side, you cannot know for sure who supports the King, and who may be using this, all of this, as an opportunity for a coup or rearrangement of power. With Benedict and others off defending Order...who will be watching the henhouse?"

A voice comes from overhead. "Mandor. Agraynel's cousin Arrotel is frantically trying to get ahold of her by trump. His mental state is highly agitated."

"Let it through, please." The Sign hovers before him again, Rebis can feel it, and Mandor stands, spheres in left hand, right barely an inch from Gray's shoulder.

Gray feels the Trump call knocking on the doors of her mind.

[chalice]

Gray looks at Mandor, a little shyly.

"I appreciate that I likely don't have a choice in the matter, but I wasn't actually on my way back to Amber when you...intervened. I was hoping to go and look for Landon, with Rebis' help. Also, you must be aware of how very dearly I should love to learn the methods of control you spoke of...if that was a truly meant offer? I don't suppose you would consider a slight alteration...send Rebis to Amber, which is where he wishes to be it seems, and allow me to stay?"

You would have to trust Rebis not to make a public fuss about any of this, of course...to pretend he was just there to meet his family...but trust now might be better repaid in the future than coercion...

[Tamarind]

As Mandor speaks Rebis expression is pensive,

At least word will reach Random, even if I it seems will not - I wonder for what purpose they continue to detain me...perhaps it is merely Mandor's means of fulfilling Merlin's request whilst still following a sensible course...

At Agraynel's words hope shows in his eyes, he watches Mandor intently, awaiting his response...

[Once Mandor raises the Logrus...]

As Mandor brigns the Sign to mind Rebis swiftly follows suit, observing closely

[chalice]

Gray will try to open up to Arrotel's contact as quickly as she can (never having received a Trump contact before).

"Yes, Arrotel?" she says.

[Wired*Nun]

I don't suppose you would consider a slight alteration...send Rebis to Amber, which is where he wishes to be it seems, and allow me to stay?"

"Ah, yes, I shall defy the King's explicit wishes in this matter because...you asked me? Lovely as you are, that is not sufficient reason, nor is anything else I have heard yet. I am not going to override his desires without compelling necessity. However, when the time comes, you may go where you please, whether that be back to Random or to look for Landon. You may want to simply try his Trump from time to time, now that you know he is not imprisoned or dead."

[Icebird]

Arrotel is frantic, but a superficial layer of calm is allowing him to act in spite of it.

"Where's Asmundson? The nightmare just attacked Benedict, and he dived out the window, leaving me alone with Sid and the nightmare, both of whome are very hostile at the moment."

[chalice]

Gray is clearly concerned for Arrotel, but otherwise looks calmer than usual.

"I am no longer with Asmundson and Heldrik. Do you need escape?"

And will I be allowed to provide it if you are?

She tilts her head to one side and up, as if glancing at someone else present questioningly.

[Wired*Nun]

Mandor nods. "Whatever is needed."

[chalice]

Gray takes Arrotel's hand and pulls him through as fast as may be.

[Wired*Nun]

Arrotel steps through the trump to Gray, if nothing prevents him.
Arrotel arrives in the chapel holding Gray's hand. He immediately notices a change of some sort in her. Calmer, somehow. He takes in the two superficially-similar-looking men, and the setting.

"Well, well," says Mandor brightly. "This is getting to be quite the party. Charmed. Is this just a way station or will you be staying?"

[chalice]

A quick visual check over to see that he isn't hurt, and she smiles faintly, and squeezes his hand before letting go and gesturing to the surroundings.

"I think the technical term we need here involves frying pans and fires...Arrotel, this is our...host...Mandor Sawall. The other gentleman is your cousin Rebis. Mandor issued us both a somewhat...pressing...invitation.

"What happened to you?"

[Icebird]

"Well, to make it short, Benedict took me and Sid to Flagstaff, tried to see what would happen if Sid's blood touched it, the nighmare appeared and attacked us, and I gave Sid a death threat to be caried out at a latrer date while Benedict leaped out of the building. And boom. Here I am. just a moment while I check to see that he doesn't need rescue too, please."

If no-one (Mandor) objects, Arrotel will pull out Benedict's trump and give him a call.

[Wired*Nun]

Before Arrotel can do that, the voice overhead says, "Now Benedict is attempting to contact Arrotel. I suggest that he not be allowed here. Perhaps Arrotel should depart to Benedict."

"Seconded," says Mandor. "Arrotel, you may depart, but do not make conversation nor bring him through - just go. This is not the time nor place."

The call comes through to Arrotel. Benedict is standing beside a daylit floor-to-ceiling window, apparently high up. Wispy clouds float in the distance, and he is dressed in a smart business suit. His left hand is inside his jacket, his right holding the card. He relaxes minutely when he sees Arrotel apparently not under duress, and says, "Report."

[chalice]

Gray looks back over at Mandor.

"If it's all the same to you, I'll leave too, with Arrotel" she suggests, in cool, polite tones. "Since his situation is largely my fault."

[Tamarind]

Rebis bows slightly to Arrotel when Agraynel introduces him but does not interrupt until Agraynel asks her question of Mandor

"Lord Mandor, I appreciate you do not wish to disobey King Merlin's edict - however could you not speak to him and advise him of the altered circumstances we have described? Once appraised of these he may alter his instructions in my regard?"

[Wired*Nun]

"As you wish." His still-outstreched right hand lifts hers lightly, and brings it to his lips. By some trick of prestidigitation, a Trump appears in his left hand, and he places the Trump into her hand he is holding, the metal balls forming a kind of bracelet around his left wrist. "Call me, when you need to. Be well."

The two step through to Benedict, there to report as ordered.

"Charming young lady. Are you hungry? I'm hungry, and no one cooks as well as I."

[chalice]

"As you wish." His still-outstreched right hand lifts hers lightly, and brings it to his lips. By some trick of prestidigitation, a Trump appears in his left hand, and he places the Trump into her hand he is holding, the metal balls forming a kind of bracelet around his left wrist. "Call me, when you need to. Be well."
To Gray's chagrin, her colour rises slightly in response to the kiss Mandor lays on her fingers.

"Thank you. Both of you be well, too."

The two step through to Benedict, there to report as ordered.
And she's gone.

[Tamarind]

"Thank you. Both of you be well, too."

"Farewell, Princess Agraynel", Rebis bows formally to her as she disappears through the trump link.

He turns to Mandor, a curious smile on his features,

"I am indeed. Word of your cooking has reached even my rarefied circles and I confess I am curious to experience it for myself"

A faint crunching noise has been faintly audible from beside the table, at the mention of food there is a loud *crack* and a small black dragon jumps onto Rebis' shoulder and growls at him indignantly - the fierce effect spoiled a little by the bits of eggshell clinging to its spines.

Rebis smiles, forgetting Mandor for a moment as he turns to his friend,

"Drax! I should have known the prospect of tasting a meal from the most famous chef in the Courts was too much for you to sleep through! I'm sure there will be enough for you too."

"Lord Mandor, may I introduce my companion, Drax"

[Wired*Nun]

He smiles, the first wholly genuine expression Rebis has seen on Mandor's face. "Anthracite dragon, unless I miss my guess, or some variation thereof. Some of my favorite people are dragons. Now, let's start with a feast for the hungry little one." Mandor extends one of his Logrus tendrils, reaching, and in short order brings back a bucket of hard coal, and sets it at Rebis' feet.

"And now, for us." Again, that rapid-fire spell, with variations. Rebis can see that there is a base, 'food creation spell' which Mandor manipulates with great finesse to produce what he desires. It is quite elegant, and effective, as a tureen of steaming soup and bowls appear before them, and they sit back down. "Well, let's hope that all turns out all right. As long as the mightly Benedict is there, one should never fear, I suppose."

[Tamarind]

Very interesting. I see how the base spell is manipulated, how though is it woven so rapidly...

Drax dives into the bucket of coal and happy crunching sounds emerge, Rebis dusts eggshell from his tunic and seats himself opposite Mandor.

He may be unwilling to release me until Merlin allows it but in allowing word to reach Random he has demonstrated his willingness to act in other ways - and hopefully fulfilled the most important objective I had sought to achieve in Amber. Suhuy spoke highly of him...and he likes Drax, which is always a good sign. I should endeavour to make the most of the situation.

"I hope so also. It seems that Benedict was in a place of safety, suggesting that the immediate danger is past at least. Beyond that, who can say?"

Rebis inhales the scents of the soup before them,

"This has a most delicicous aroma my lord, and the method of creation is equally impressive - would it be impertinent to inquire how you are able to form the weaves so swiftly?"

[Wired*Nun]

"Practice, practice, practice, my friend. I've been dabbling in culinary magic for over seventy years. Eat well, live well. That soup is a spiced turtle with a form of leek I favor." He makes another quick motion, and a bottle of white appears in his hand. He pours into the glasses set before them, and sets it down carefully. "Wine is actually the hardest part. The really good ones cannot be created or duplicated with any consistency - one must find them. Fortunately, shadow is large, and enology seems to translate across most variations of physical laws."

The disembodied voice breaks in, saying, "Mandor, I must direct my attention elsewhere."

"Fine, fine, thank you for your service," he responds. A faint chime like a spoon on a crystal goblet, and the light dims fractionally.

The two share a really fine meal, better than any Rebis has had in recent memory. Gilded cage indeed. Shop talk about magical techniques fills the air, and Rebis realizes there is still much to learn, especially about sorcery and its applications.

"So we were talking about compensation, for your inconvenience, at some point? In paying off a debt to the King, I have incurred one to you. What favor would you have of me, that is within my power and authority?"

Rebis also realizes that he is growing mildly fatigued from keeping the Sign available. Mandor has long since dropped his.

[Tamarind]

The disembodied voice breaks in, saying, "Mandor, I must direct my attention elsewhere."
"I am curious, is that the entity known as Ghostwheel?"

"So we were talking about compensation, for your inconvenience, at some point? In paying off a debt to the King, I have incurred one to you. What favor would you have of me, that is within my power and authority?" A favour from one so powerful should not be used lightly, for now there is nothing within those bounds that I desire and such a boon may prove invaluable in the future...

"You are most gracious my Lord, if it pleases you I would hold this favour against future need - I would not squander so valuable a gift"

Rebis also realizes that he is growing mildly fatigued from keeping the Sign available. Mandor has long since dropped his.[Rebis will have released his hold upon the Sign at the same point]

After a short time Drax peers curiously up at the table, sniffing the air and eyeing the large tureen speculatively. A moment later there is a splash and a smug looking dragon lands squarely in the tureen, regarding the two men for a moment before licking happily at the soup...

Though his tone is chiding Rebis is unable to hide an amused smile,

"Drax! I should have known the coal wouldn't hold your interest for long...my apologies Lord Mandor, he does so like to try everything..."

[Wired*Nun]

Effete distaste at having his cuisine interdicted, and amusement, war on Mandor's face for a moment. Deftly grasping the corners of the tablcloth, Mandor wraps the table setting, tureen, Drax and all, inside the cloth, and with a flick of his wrists, tosses the whole into the air. Drax bursts out, tiny wings flapping frantically, and the rest disappears in midair. A moment later, a steaming bowl of something appears on the floor next to the baby dragon, and he dives in happily. Smells like stew...

"I am curious, is that the entity known as Ghostwheel?" "The one and only...thank all gods and demons. The multiverse just isn't big enough for two. I wonder what happens when he gets old enough to be interested in...companionship, shall we say? Do constructs love as we do? I've always thought the struggle between the Serpent and the Unicorn resembles nothing so much as an extended lover's quarrel. The old legends support this asessment. What if the Serpent is simply eternally jealous of Dworkin? That sheds a different light on things, don't you think?" Rebis isn't sure whether Mandor is just making conversation, or is fishing for something.

[Tamarind]

"Possibly true, it is certainly the case that their differences have been far more visibly and forcefully expressed since that time...but is it not also plausible that the events surrounding Dworkin were merely the results of a deeper, more fundamental division that had been developing over the millenia of their existence, a symptom of their differences rather than the cause?"

[Wired*Nun]

"That's what everyone likes to think. Order, Chaos, diametrically opposed principles...I'm not so sure. I think there is some 'unified field theory,' to steal a phrase, that could be developed to account for everything. Warpings of time and space, a conservation of Reality and Shadow...What if these two entities just took the positions that appealed to them? What if there really isn't much difference between them at all? Like two people who are too similar, they repel - like poles of magnetism, rather than opposites. Maybe they're both pretty much the same, no matter what color they happen to be today. How else could such supposedly opposing imprints coexist in the same individual as Merlin? Or Dworkin, for that matter, who was Master of the Logrus before his favorite Suhuy was forced to step in? Did you ever wonder why Bances isn't the Master of the Logrus? Or perhaps the question is, why Suhuy isn't High Priest of the Serpent? In fact, Bances is only a minor wizard when it comes down to it, an indifferent Lord of Chaos. Separation of Church and State? There are mysteries still unplumbed, and mostly because no one wants to plumb them. In fact, there are those who actively prevent such investigation."

[Tamarind]

A mischievous thought impulse alerts Rebis to danger - glancing down he sees Drax eyeing the shiny sphere's around Mandor's wrists intently

No, not those!

Reaching for the Sign Rebis quickly glances at Mandor before grasping the empty stew bowl with a tendril and setting it moving in a complicated, jaunty dance across the floor...distracted by the shiny thing that moves Drax hunkers into a hunting crouch, little spiky tail lashing back and forth, eyes swirling. Moments later he pounces, sharp claws digging into the metal as he wrestles it into submission, happy snarling sounds pucntuated by little gouts of flame as dragon and bowl roll around the floor...

[Tamarind]

Such a view is very appealing...

"Indeed, I had meant differences in a personal rather than an elemental sense - I was speculating that over the millenia two such powerful beings with differing personalities could have deep-seated grudges and rivalries, that the liaison with Dworkin was simply a product of these rather than their cause. I confess that I find your idea appealing though, you suppose that these beings are themselves just aspects of a more fundamental force - one that contains the characteristics of both. This would explain why a single being can contain both within it, and would imply perhaps that there are other aspects which have yet to be manifested...perhaps this new power is an example of such - a new aspect now translated into the physical realm?"

[Wired*Nun]

"I suspect this new thing is a cheap blend, and a crude and crass one at that. Not a very imaginative mind to have this Frankenstein's monster as a 'patron' or whatever it might be called. Smacks of something a child would come up with, if suddenly given the power to create it. A Warhol to a Manet or Degas. Ghostwheel...now there's elegance, and he's not a Power but merely a construct."

"Rebis," he leans forward, folding his long, pianist's fingers together loosely, "would you be interested in digging into some of this kind of thing? I mean, for real...the origins of things? The Pit, the Void, Undershadow...all those things that tempt us with esoteric knowledge, but whose secrets these Powers jealously guard? Merlin seems content to be King, perhaps rightfully giving up his investigations for the responsibilities of holding things together. I have a few sympathetic allies...but I would welcome another."

[Tamarind]

You read me very well Mandor...the opportunity to work with a being with your experience and knowledge, to delve into the essential nature of things...

His eyes light up with undisguised enthusiasm

"Interested? In learning the true nature of things, their origins, the forces that govern and shape them? Oh yes. Definitely."

Strange that I have come to feel so close to him so quickly, especially in these circumstances, he has, after all, kidnapped me...but his intensity is magnetic, compelling almost. And he clearly has an incisive intellect - and one that is not closed to possibilities. I may not fully trust him yet but I could definitely take the chance...

[Wired*Nun]

Perhaps it is the lure of the father/older brother that I never had...perhaps it is the realization that no matter what Martin turns out to be, he will never be a Lord of Chaos.

"Good! Then the first thing I want you to do is explore this place with your senses. Bring up the Sign, examine this area, and then explore it. Try to find its weak places, its seams, its characteristics. Try to think like a shadowmaster, and tell me all you can about it. Then tell me how you would get out, if the obvious Way was barred to you. Hypothesize. Brainstorm."

[Tamarind]

Despite the strangeness of the situation the task is very familiar, reminiscent of many challenges set by Suhuy. Remembering the techniques and lessons of that time he allows the power to flow into him and once more examines his surroundings, noting the slight irregularities or inconsistencies in the fabric of the pocket shadow that might indicate areas of stress. After a thorough analysis he forms several fine tendrils, preparing to probe the fabric of the pocket,
Remembering a subtle trap from an early lesson he first shapes a single tendril, separating it and sending it to probe the fabric,

I remember that experience - and the feedback from the Broken pattern. Time to be cautious.

Only when this test proves safe does he proceed, delicately probing the fabric of the pocket and sifting through the wealth of additional information that the touch of the Logrus provides.

[Wired*Nun]

Rebis begins to suspect Mandor is just killing time, as his explorations of this pocket shadow reveal nothing particularly unusual. There is a hidden way beneath the depiction of the Pit inlaid into the floor, and the obvious way nearby. The portrait of Corwin over the altar is a Logrus Trump, done in an unknown hand. There seems to be a small circle of some kind of twined Power where the Ghostwheel's voice came from before, as if perhaps it left a bit of itself waiting among the lights of the chandelier. There is nothing else remarkable about this shadow, as far as he can see. Killing time...Rebis checks the time reference, and realizes with some annoyance that the pocket shadow is nearly in stasis. Slow time...they want to keep me out for a while, and Mandor is confident enough to put himself in it too.

[Tamarind]

"A fascinating challenge. The purpose of this pocket would seem to be to delay those within - to hold them apart for as long a time as could be contrived. But of course you are aware of this. The remnant of Ghostwheel is of interest, I would hypothesise that it is a semi-aware watcher, a placeholder if you will to allow it return its focus swiftly at need. The style of the trump I do not recognise though the subject is all too familiar...and of course the Way is clear enough. The second Way beneath the Pit is appealing...have you heard the tale of Lucifer and Lillith? I found it compelling, haunting in a way."

[Wired*Nun]

"That way leads to a holding cell. Dara held Corwin prisoner in it for some time before Merlin freed him. It seems to be part of his lot in life - and I suspect he will work to avoid it in future. He has found - created, however unwittingly or accidentally - his center of power. He is unlikely to leave it for any length of time. Thus he has become a fixture, only a little lower than the angels, as they say."

"In all other respects you are correct. And the tale? The Genesis Passage in the Book of the Serpent - and the Book of the Unicorn, incidentally - must be what you mean? Of course, I consider myself erudite, especially regarding things of Chaos. I suspect there is a good deal of truth in that tale, supported by the fact that it was included in both books, one written by Dworkin, one by Caliban, who was High Priest of the Serpent before Bances. It is interesting that in all shadows where recognizable humans have recognizable civilization, some form of this myth exists."

[Tamarind]

"Interesting indeed" comments Rebis as he resumes his probing of the shadow pocket, a number of slender tendrils delicately weaving into the fabric, testing its integrity and resistance to manipulation as well as seeking any sign of magical inhibition that would affect spell weaving.

I can't remain here much longer confined like this. I need to find a way out...that remnant of Ghostwheel may be the key, it is after all an interface - it may be possible to exploit this to form an alternative exit...or perhaps simultaneously stressing several parts of the pocket would facilitate escape...

"As the actions of a single Real individual are reflected through adjacent Shadows it would seem that the actions of two such powerful entities would inevitably have a very profound effect on their surroundings. In addition the fact that these actions have become such an integral part of the history and religion of both Amber and Chaos means they would tend to shape the perceptions and desires of a large number of Real beings, who in turn would cast their own influence over Shadow, strengthening the effect. Why it should be that Shadow is affected by powerful beings in this way is itself a very interesting question..."

[Wired*Nun]

Maybe it is some sort of test...that I have to think my way out of. I'm guessing I can't just power my way out of it...

"Yes, there are many principles which we take as gospel, because we observe functions every day, experiential and experimental evidence. We are great engineers, but not very good investigators of the real roots of things, if you see what I mean. We are users, not thinkers. All but a few...Dworkin is one of them. Suhuy is actually not...at least, not in the same way. Suhuy is a gifted engineer, but he doesn't really care to find out what is underneath it all."

[Tamarind]

"Mandor, I am curious, what were His Majesty's instructions regarding me? If he simply wished to ensure that I not inform Random of my experiences then I believe an alternative solution is perfectly feasible..."

As he speaks Drax, having thoroughly destroyed the soup tureen stretches his wings and flits round the room, swooping round and about the chandeliers with great delight. Rebis smiles and continues his examination of the shadow, probing the areas around the Ways to determine the possibility of carefully insinuating a tendril through to determine their destinations

[Wired*Nun]

"He simply asked me to prevent you from going to Amber at this time, and to prevent you from talking to any of their elders directly. I believe he wants the message sent; that's why I allowed the lady on her way, and there are other conduits...but there are factions within Amber, and we must let Random work that out. I believe you would be a disruptive element."

"I have one more theory as well. Dara and her faction, when it comes time to destroy broken Patterns, have only one way to do that - and that's with Oberon's blood, yea, unto the third or fourth generation. Personally, if I had a few quarts of that precious fluid that I needed, I'd guard it, very carefully."

[Tamarind]

"So am I to be held indefintiely as a potential threat to the Patterns? That seems a little extreme, after all if Dara is planning to erase Broken Patterns she must believe she has the resources available to do so, either her own blood or that of others that she believes she can control. It seems unlikely that she would be counting on using me in this fashion."

I wonder if she has any other children hidden away for this purpose? Or perhaps blood creatures, if she has the skill?

"And if I am being held for my own protection then whilst I appreciate the concern I would prefer to look to my own defence, the cost of this protection is a little too high"

He simply asked me to prevent you from going to Amber at this time, and to prevent you from talking to any of their elders directly.I could still speak to Martin...

"My father is not an Elder, the wording of this request would seem to allow me to visit him, provided I do not do so in Amber. Now that word of my existence will have reached Amber I am particularly keen to meet with him - and it occurs to me that far from Chaos Hendrake's influence would be much reduced and I would also be much harder to find."

He pauses and looks intently at Mandor,

"If I give you my word not to compromise the wording of His Majesty's request will you allow me to depart?"

[Wired*Nun]

"So am I to be held indefinitely as a potential threat to the Patterns? That seems a little extreme, after all if Dara is planning to erase Broken Patterns she must believe she has the resources available to do so, either her own blood or that of others that she believes she can control. It seems unlikely that she would be counting on using me in this fashion.""Indefinitely only in the sense that the time is not yet determined. I have no intention of entertaining you longer than necessary. Much as I enjoy your company, I have other commitments. I am sure Dara has her methods planned out. I am equally sure, from long association, that she might be happy to cheapen the cost whilst removing a potential enemy in one stroke. It pays to be careful. I'd hate to lose you so soon after we've met."


"My father is not an Elder, the wording of this request would seem to allow me to visit him, provided I do not do so in Amber. Now that word of my existence will have reached Amber I am particularly keen to meet with him - and it occurs to me that far from Chaos Hendrake's influence would be much reduced and I would also be much harder to find."
He looks pained, and folds his hands slowly in front of him, bumping his nose with his thumbs. "Your...sire, unfortunately, is in Dara's pocket. In her bed from time to time, too. I'm not sure if it's convenience, lust or obsession on his part, but you can't be sure that he would protect you against her, or could. I know it's not a pleasant lesson, but you need to be on your guard. "


"If I give you my word not to compromise the wording of His Majesty's request will you allow me to depart?"
"I think it more important not to compromise the spirit of his request. He doesn't want hard evidence of anything to reach Random, but he wants him to have to consider the possibility, and so be forewarned. As long as you -" A chime from overhead, and a circle of light drops from above to hover before the two men. Drax leaps at the thing with delight, and it rises enough to avoid the baby drake.

"Mandor, I have word of an attack on the Keep, apparently by Hendrake forces. I do not know what it means, but thought it best that you know. I will go to tell dad, but he is far away right now." The circle disappears with a slight pop.

"Well, that sounds like a good segue. You are free to go, with my blessing, and my apologies for the inconvenience. Remember to test all your actions against the interests of Chaos, and may the Serpent guide you and your conscience." A sardonic smile, the flip of a Trump, and Mandor is gone.

[Tamarind]

"Your...sire, unfortunately, is in Dara's pocket. In her bed from time to time, too. I'm not sure if it's convenience, lust or obsession on his part, but you can't be sure that he would protect you against her, or could. I know it's not a pleasant lesson, but you need to be on your guard. "
If there's anything I've learned from these past days it is that I need to be on my guard. I still wish to meet my father but I must be careful not to let my desire for family blind me to danger...

"Mandor, I have word of an attack on the Keep, apparently by Hendrake forces."
The Keep? The Keep of the Four Worlds perhaps? Does she wish control of the Fount to enhance her chances against Amber in the battles to come?

Rebis, about to speak, is left open-mouthed as Mandor disappears. Drax hops onto his shoulder, eyeing the space occupied by Mandor's ponytail regretfully.

Well, we are no longer "detained" but where to go now? I could search for the Keep of the Four Worlds but I have no desire to blunder into a battle without more information and in any case such a search could take weeks. To seek Martin then? Involved with Dara or not he is my father and by now he may know I exist...

A bite on the ear reminds him that there is a more immediate issue, he scratches Drax's head affectionately and returns his focus to the main Way, delicately insinutating a tendril through the portal...

First, find out where I am.

[Wired*Nun]

A little bit of experimentation, and Rebis feels the end of the tendril exit through the patched shadow wall. On the other side, there is open space, then a number of sharp metallic objects, apparently fixed in place. A trap?

The other Way leads to an empty room with what feel like stone walls. When Rebis tries to withdraw the tendril fromthat one, it is abruptly severed, the backlash giving him a bit of a sting and causing Drax to leap off his shoulder for a moment with a yipe.

There's always that Trump of Corwin...heh.

[Tamarind]

There's always that Trump of Corwin...heh. Not that I'd try that route - Primal Shadow would be preferrable to Corwin...

Moving his hands in the familiar gestures he summons a shimmering sphere of water and links it to the tendril beyond the main Way, the image wavering for a moment before resolving...

Let us see more clearly what manner of reception awaits...

[Wired*Nun]

A moment of disorientation, then Rebis realizes his perspective is vertical - seeing from above. The Way apparently debouches from the ceiling above a number of metallic objects with many pointed blades. These trees of swords rest on a floor of polished marble, in a large room which contains many other objets d'art. Doorways can be seen on either end. He sees nothing moving, and the lighting from the wizard globes is dim.

[Tamarind]

Well, it's preferable to remaining here...

Shifting into demonform Rebis takes to the air with slow beats of his wings, Drax clinging happily to his shoulder. Holding the logrus to mind he moves through the Way into the hall beyond, flying a little way then hovering in place.

[Wired*Nun]

The way deposits Rebis and Drax in the air above the sword forest, and Rebis' shock is equalled only by his surprise as he is dragged down onto the blades. Everything is heavy...gravity trap, he thinks as he shoves the branches and spikes aside with his armored hands and feet. Damage to his limbs is negligible, but his wings are another story entirely. He crashes to the ground among the metal sculptures, pain shooting through his wing structures, and his ankle twists under him, and he feels his wrist fracture. Must be at least triple gravity, damnit.

Drax settles on his chest and whimpers, upset by the weight, the noise, and the smell of blood. Lying on the floor, Rebis realizes he will have to extricate himself carefully, but soon.

To add insult to injury, a scraping and a hissing sound rears above him in the form of a pythonesque snake of irridescent blues. A crest of spines rises as the man-sized head looks down at him, and the thing opens its mouth.

"Ssss-sss-ss-ss-ss-s-s-s-s..." comes the sound. Could that be laughter? "You have brought me a morsel, yessss, I thank you." The head lowers itself and opens its mouth wide towards Drax, who cringes. Tangled in the metal branches, Rebis has only a moment to decide what to do.

[Tamarind]

"NO!"

Eyes blazing, features twisted in pain, Rebis cries a single word, harsh and cold. Instantly the temperature plummets, freezing vapours raging around the serpent as his power envelops it.

[Wired*Nun]

At the sound of the Word, the snake's head and upper body snap backward, lightning quick, and it throws itself sliding down the polished floor, knocking over a statue of some forgotten god or other. Ice sparkles in the air and a cracking sound accompanies the spell's resolution.

Long seconds pass, and the snake doesn't move from its sprawl against the far wall. Well, one thing dealt with... Drax leaps into the air, tiny wings beating furiously to clear the sharp spines, and he lands near the tip of the snake's tail, to begin worrying it as a terrier with a rat.

[Tamarind]

Mist form would have been a better choice...it will certainly make it easier to extricate myself from these...

Shifting carefully into mist form he flows around the bloodied spikes before gently lifting Drax to him with a tendril. Focussing on avoiding any possible interference he reaches another carefully towards the familiar stormy seascape shadow he frequented a few short months ago.
"What say we leave this creature to contemplate the folly of threatening Drax, my friend?"

With the tendril securely anchored he pulls them both through, leaving the snake and the rest of Chaos behind them, at least for a time.

[Wired*Nun]

The feel of the spray on Rebis' incorporeal form is pleasant, and soothing. Finding a secure spit of land, Rebis sets Drax down and gratefully drops the Sign. He is tired, and damaged, and needs a day or two to rest and heal. The moisture in the air is all he needs to replenish his resources, that, and time. Drax snorts and roots around in the crevices and pools, happily crunching crabs, anemones, barnacles and shelled mollusks. He is growing quickly, putting on several pounds a day.

[Tamarind]

Rebis smiles as he watches Drax feasting and playing

Drax, Scourge of the Crustaceans. They will tell tales of your exploits for generations...

Allowing himself to relax Rebis drifts gently with the sea-breezes, resting and healing his wounds. Freed from the recent immediacy of concerns his mind drifts also, pondering recent events as time passes.

Suhuy was right - study is no substitute for experience. More has happened to me in these last few days than in any of the years since I took the Logrus. I have unleashed Primal Chaos in anger, almost lost my closest friend, felt what I thought was love, met several of my Amberite relatives and apparently earned the disapproval of the King of Chaos...what to aspire to next?

Only a short time ago I would have sought out Sal'wey, but now I find myself most unsure of my feelings in that regard...the more I think on it the clearer it seems that she was yet another of Corwin's manipulations, part of his moulding of Shadow to draw me to him. Her feelings were for the Promised One, not Rebis. And regardless of my feelings, to return now would place her and I in more danger...no, I will stay away from Lakeshore and Aurora's realm.

So, where should I go? Where else? I will continue the quest I embarked on when Suhuy bade me leave Chaos, to visit Amber and speak to my father. Only then can I find out if the hopes Suhuy kindled when he told me the truth are justified...whether my father will be happy to meet me - or if he will reject me like my mother before him. When I didn't know who he was I would dream sometimes, construct innumerable possibilites, some good, some bad - but I always knew they were just dreams, safe from the harsh possibilites of reality. Now there is a chance they could be real. I have to know.

Mind and body restored and a decision reached Rebis resumes human form, reaching into his tunic he takes out a seed and carefully plants it in a sheltered hollow, shielded from the worst of the winds.

I hope you enjoy this place as much as I do, I'll look in on you soon

Standing and looking about he spies Drax emerging smugly rom a nearby rock pool, seaweed trailing from his mouth.

"Time to be on our way again little friend"

Drax's eyes swirl excitedly and he leaps onto Rebis' shoulder, causing him to sway slightly.

"Not so little anymore...I see seafood agrees with you"

Smiling Rebis draws the power into himself and focusses on the Shadow where he met Agraynel, Asmundson and Heldrik.

A good place to start - they were friendlier than anyone else I've met and the Shadow lies far closer to Amber than others I know

Recalling the details of the guardhouse and the little table where he had tea he picks a spot that lies a little out of sight,

No sense in alarming the guards unnecessarily after all

Satisfied he has the details clear he utters a word and an ethereal wave sweeps across the beach, bearing him and Drax away.

[Wired*Nun]

Drax' rough muzzle on his cheek reminds Rebis of his frailty in human form. There must be a reason why so many intelligent shadow-dwellers are shaped pretty much the same. Is it because those of Chaos and Order are also so naturally shaped? Or is it ultimately the most efficient form? Another question for lifetimes...

Hurtling across the shadows, a timeless instant passes, until he arrives on the hillside overlooking the guard shack, but out of sight.

Unfortunately, touchdown is a little rough. Maybe Drax throws him off balance, and he slips on a mossy root, catching himself on his hands and knees. Drax flutters to the ground next to him, and flaps his wings inquisitively. Drat, grass stains... The damp grass and ground and windy mountainside are calling to Drax, and he bounds off looking for adventure.

[Tamarind]

Pushing himself to his feet Rebis brushes himself off, smiling ruefully as he watches Drax bounding merrily off over the mountainside

Lots of healthy shellfish energy to burn still I see....local wildlife beware. Well, if he's going on a little explore I can take the opportunity to investigate the properties of this Shadow, I seem to remember an unusual feeling near the veils...and the artefact in the mountain bears further study also, albeit from afar.

Settling himself in a dry spot under a rocky overhang Rebis leans back and allows his enhanced senses to absorb the feeling of the Shadow around him, initially checking for any usage of Power in the area before focussing on the unusual feeling that caught his attention on his last visit.

I'd like to know a little more about this Shadow before I examine the artefact again...

A surge of excitement from Drax distracts him for an moment, focussing he sees an image of little scaly claws enthusiastically scrabbling at a burrow that is just too small for their owner...
Reassured that all is well Rebis returns to his investigation of the Shadow, leaving Drax to his excavations.

[Wired*Nun]

Preparation of his mystical catalogue is just about finished when the clop of draft horses heralds the arrival of a vehicle on the road. Peeking over a rock, Rebis can see the two travelers he knows, as well as a driver and the two guards, having a conversation at the tunnel entrance.