Roland, Kat, Raevyn, Heldrik, Landon, Gray in Amber

[Wired*Nun]

Julian returns shortly before Roland finishes his sketch. "Take off the irons, Rik. Roland, finish that up, then round up your cousins, we're going to have a family meeting to deal with this crisis. Heldrik, you are still under house arrest until the King decides your status. Joshua, he's in your charge. Everyone meet in the dining room as soon as you can, and I mean soon." He goes over to speak briefly with the officers in the operations center, then heads out the main door toward the dining room.

[Shutter]

With a few quick simple strokes Roland manages to put the finishing touches on the sketch. Ugg...I'll need to improve on that later, but it will serve for now. Looking at it carefully he verifies that it will work as a Trump, though he doesn't try to contact Heldrik at the moment. Far from his best work the sketch is clearly a quick rendition, just enough to give it the power and focus needed for functionality. When he is satisfied with it he puts away his sketchbook and pencil, shoulders his satchel and stands.

"I'll see you both again in a few moments. Josh, call if you need anything." With a nod to all three of them he walks off, seeking out Raevyn and Katarzyna.

Damn...always get a headache when I rush those things...

[LynMars]

Raevyn and Kat are sitting in a quiet corner, a closed bottle of brandy on a small table between them, where Raevyn's sketching something. By now, it's taken form as two cat-like creatures fighting over something; lots of sharp, harsh lines, and excessive shading, the pencil marks obviously heavily pressed into the paper. It's not her best work, just a quick drawing, getting out some of her frustration.

[Wired*Nun]

Roland finds Kat and Raevyn, telling them to meet in the dining room as soon as they are able, for a family meeting. Josh leads Heldik to the dining room as well, and dismisses the other guards as soon as they arrive.

Inside is a who's who of Amber. The King and Vialle are sitting at the head of the table, talking softly over coffee. Fiona, now in a long-sleeved blouse, is admiring a painting of an Arden scene, with Bleys. Benedict, Gerard and Julian are leaning on the mantelpiece and talking. Julian has donned his armor, the gloves thrust in his belt. Benedict has changed out of formal clothes, and now wears his long blade on his back. A sniper rifle stands in the corner nearby.

Llewella is sitting at the table near the middle, reading a couple of sheets of handwritten paper and staring at a glass jar with something small in it. Flora also sits at the table, a Tarot spread in front of her, the heavy book beside it.

[Shutter]

Roland enters the room quietly, followed by Raevyn and Kat, who he found moments ago. He slides into a nearby corner and observes for the time being.

Dressed for battle...A casting of the cards...The family is ready for action...I wonder if they have anywhere to direct it? What is in that jar?

[Pygysys]

Kat's been letting Raevyn work on her sketch at this time, not drawing her out into conversation but remaining with her all the same.

When Roland informs them of the family meeting, she rises to her feet and says quietly, "What I said on the picnic still stands, regardless of what happens next. If our original investigation is placed on hold in favour of a new one, I still hold to what was agreed." She smiles softly, "That is if we are still grouped together of course."

She then accompanies them both to the dining room for said family meeting, standing with them both in the room. Kat does look to Benedict upon her entrance to see if he wishes her to stand near him or remain with her cousins.

[LynMars]

Raevyn quietly follows Roland and Kat. She watches her father as she goes to sit down in a chair at the table, not far from where Gerard stands, if possible.

[Wired*Nun]

Benedict gives a tiny shake of his head at Katarzyna.

Gerard sees Raevyn, and sweeps her up in his arms like a little girl. He whispers in her ear, "Praise to the Unicorn, I heard you were safe. I love you so much, little one, so you have to understand that I - we - have to hunt whoever did this down. It is vengeance, and it is self-preservation, and it is justice. And as much as I would see you safe at home, you deserve to be part of this too. This is the ugly side of our lives, but I can't protect you from it forever." He puts her down gently.

Julian strolls over to Roland. "Heads up, you'll be leading your cousins here down one line of inquiry in this investigation. Be thinking about it, as Random will lay it all out, I am sure."

Joshua and Heldrik arrive as well. Josh directs Heldrik to a seat at the foot of the table, and stands behind him.

Random puts down his coffee cup and stands up, looking like he will begin speaking, when Flora holds up her index finger in a "wait a minute" gesture. He pauses, then waves at everyone to sit down.

[Shutter]

"Understood." Roland whispers to his father. He looks around and puts himself down in the nearest seat, eyes on Random. Time to see what the King is like...

[LynMars]

Raevyn gives a little "eep!" as she's lifted into a crushing embrace. She can't help but smile, though. "I'm fine, Daddy. I want to help find the answer to all this; you couldn't keep me at home if you tried. I can't help but feel it's related to the Keep..." Whispering, mindfull of all those watching and listening, she says just before being put down, "I love you too. Remember that, if nothing else."

[Pygysys]

To Benedict's shake of the head, Kat nods once and remains near her two 'known' cousins. When Gerard embraces Raevyn, Kat gives them space and walks over to the table. She glances across at Josh and Heldrik, choosing to sit near the foot of the table so that Heldrik has at least one non-accusatory face nearby. What a time to arrive in Amber. At least I only had to worry about one or two aunts or uncles being annoyed at the manner of it, Heldrik's got to deal with the entire family in one go.

Kat sits with her back ramrod straight and her hands clasped together, resting upon the edge of the table in front of her. Sweeping her gaze around, she notes those gathered and the strange items within the room as well. I wonder if any suspicions are falling the way of the unknowns at all. We're still untried, perhaps this will be the testing waters.

[Wired*Nun]

Flora stand up, backs away from the table, extends her hand. A blonde man, a dark slim girl, and an enormous Irish Wolfhound appear in the characteristic Trump rainbow.

Flora opens up that smile that makes men weak and women envious, and kisses Landon on the cheek. Arthur licks her patting hand and wuffs happily. "For those that don't know, this is Landon, and Arthur. And this young lady is Eric's, unless I miss my guess. Taking the opportunity to look clever, as always... Flora goes around the room and names everyone in turn, ending with Queen Vialle and King Random. She then looks expectantly at Landon and Gray, saying, "Would you care to introduce your friend, Landon?"

[TreyKincaide]

Landon bows to the King and the Queen flashing a smile particularly to Random as memories of late night jam sessions without Flora's approval leap to mind. "Oh, yes. I have the pleasure of introducing you all to Agraynal, daughter of Eric." He continues through her titles maintaining formality. He takes his Flora by the hand and pulls out her seat like a gentleman following proper decorum and gestures to Gray to follow suit.

More of the family than I ever wished of meeting. This bodes ill.

[chalice]

Looking a little stunned, Gray obeys the gesture.

Just like home..yet so different..

Her gaze flicks around the room warily, as if seeking somewhere to run, but she seats herself gracefully and holds herself still.

With a swift upwards-slanted glance at Landon, she mutters: "You shouldn't have said that to Farrag. You think living under a curse is something to take lightly?"

[LynMars]

Raevyn nods and smiles warmly at the two newcomers, as she takes her seat. "Welcome, Landon and Agraynel. And Arthur."

[chalice]

"Raevyn." Gray smiles nervously at her new cousin.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon leans over to her and whispers, "I didn't exactly have much choice. Time was important, and I didn't want them to think I was abducting their queen. I feel bad, but this isn't exactly the best of times to discuss it. Besides, you did something quite similar after we exitted the tower." He says the last as if he's confused.

Landon feels to be somewhat a spectacle and waits for the meeting to continue.

[Pygysys]

Aren't we the big happy family? I wonder if there's anyone else to arrive or if that's it? So if that's Eric's daughter, who does the boy belong to? Does it even matter, so long as they had nothing to do with this. They're going to be dragged in though, let's hope they're up for it. Is it just me or does Agraynel look a little pale? I'm being rude, I'm staring.

"Greetings Agraynel and Landon, tis a shame we could not meet you under different circumstances. Well met all the same."

[Shutter]

Roland smile grimly and nods at the newcomers. When did Amberites begin breeding like rabbits?...

[TreyKincaide]

Landon nods and smiles at Kat, Roland, and Raevyn appearing to wish to socialize, but not wishing to uphold the meeting future.

[Pygysys]

Kat seems to understand if the return volley of a smile is any indication before her attention zooms in on the King.

[chalice]

Gray's attention is focused in the same direction.

So this is the man who tried to murder my father...

[Wired*Nun]

A signal from Random, and the doors are shut. Fiona and Bleys run some kind of sweep on the room, perhaps warding or checking for eavesdroppers.

"First, thank you all for coming," he starts. "It's trite, but I really appreciate everyone's support in a crisis. I'm doing my damndest to make liars out of those who think this family, and this government, are not worth the cards we are drawn upon. Obviously we still have our enemies."

"Second, a few formalities. Roland, Katarzyna, you were not able to complete your oaths. It's moot from my point of view, but for the sake of the people and the bureaucracy I don't want to lie when I say you have taken them - so if you do, raise your right hand and say 'I do,' and that will be that."

"Third, some loose ends. I want parents to locate all your progeny and check in with them, make sure they are all right, whether you get along with them or not, whether you care about them or not. It's just a matter of getting good intelligence; I want to know whether our enemies hit anyone else, and I want to see if maybe anyone is missing, or even gone over. So piss and moan later, as soon as this meeting is over, I want everyone to report to Flora on the basic status of everyone you are responsible for. She can check on any even looser ends herself."

"Fourth, I've called Merlin and given him as much info as is appropriate. He assures me that he doesn't know anything about it, and will start checking from his end for any Chaos involvement. I'm not saying I take that at face value, but I don't think this is his style. There are plenty of rogue possibilities, though."

"Fifth, I guess, we now have a several completely new players on the scene. Landon I know and will vouch for, though many of you don't. Same for Roland and Katarzyna. Agraynel here, and Heldrik, are unknown quantities. I need -we need - information from them before we go forward."

"Heldrik. I know your story. Flora has pegged you as Finndo's. Feel free to deny that, but we will work from that premise, it makes sense in a lot of ways. Agraynel, I don't know anything about you, we need to hear it, if only to fit you into the picture. Between you and Landon, please enlighten us."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon waits for Gray to begin giving her the oppurtunity to explain.

Now, maybe I'll get some answers.

[Shutter]

Roland raises his right hand and says "I do" loudly enough for all to hear, but not booming from the rafters.

Later on...Finndo...who the...oh....interesting...

[Pygysys]

Kat raises her right hand, "The people bore witness to my oath, your Majesty, this is now for the benefit of my family and so you may all know that I meant every word of it. Upon the holy Unicorn, I will support and defend the realm of Amber, its rightful Sovereign, and its people, against all enemies, from within or without, with no reservation of honor, or risk, or of my life itself. This binding oath I solemnly swear." Regardless of the situation, I will not take an oath lightly nor swear it as easily as 'I do'. She lowers her hand and then goes silent, waiting to hear Gray and Landon fill them in on the details.

[chalice]

Gray looks unhappy at being the focus of attention.

"As Landon has told you, I am Eric's daughter, " her voice is soft, but clear.

"I was raised away from here, in a Shadow of Amber herself. Father would have brought me here...eventually...but during the War I became...ill..."

She looks beseachingly at Landon, hoping he might continue.

[Wired*Nun]

Kat raises her right hand, "The people bore witness to my oath, your Majesty, this is now for the benefit of my family and so you may all know that I meant every word of it.
"Thank you," Random replies. "I hadn't realize you had finished it for the people. Even the King isn't all-knowing, huh?"

[chalice]

She's formiddable. I wish I had an ounce of her confidence.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon jumps in realizing she needs help, "Eric, placed Agraynal in stasis to stave off her illness using the Pattern and the jewel before returning here to defend against the forces of Chaos. This is what I gathered anyway. I was having difficulty traveling through shadow. I stumbled upon her, woke her up satisfying my curiosity, and here we are."

[Pygysys]

"Thank you," Random replies. "I hadn't realize you had finished it for the people. Even the King isn't all-knowing, huh?"
Kat says after Landon and Agraynel seem finished with their account, "The people needed something, your Majesty. Which reminds me, you're set to make an announcement tomorrow sometime." She shrugs, "My apologies for putting you on the spot, but I wasn't quite sure what else to tell them."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon raises an eyebrow.

Impetuous and strong willed. I wonder if Kat forgets her place.

[Shutter]

Strangely casual banter for a time of crisis...So much for my analysis that battle has begun. Perhaps the line is not so finely drawn here in the Real World?

He listens attentively to the story told by his two newest cousins.

Odd, I wonder what she was sick with?

[chalice]

Gray flashes a thankful glance at Landon; then her expression closes down.

"Ill...isn't exactly right. I was dying.

"Corwin," she shivers, "cursed everything my father loved best. Apparently," her mouth twists bitterly, an expression that ill suits her young features, "that included me."

"Father had to place me under restraint, to slow the effects. I remember little else before Landon found me yesterday."

[LynMars]

Raevyn puts her hand to her mouth, eyes wide in concern and sympathy. "Oh my...Are you all right now? I mean, are you still dying?"

'Corwin's Curse...Does it still affect her? Would he have done it had he known? Maybe...They say he hated Eric that much...I don't understand very well how someone could hate that badly...though I begin to...'

[chalice]

Gray meets Raevyn's eyes and says simply: "I don't know."

[Pygysys]

Kat's eyes narrow in thought as she regards Agraynel. Corwin cursed Eric? Why? There's still so much I don't know about this family I am part of. I suppose the rest of us can rest easy and assume she doesn't harbor a contagious infection of some kind. That's all we need on top of everything else, a plague to sweep throughout the land. Keep your attention focussed on the real matter at hand, Kat. Worry about plagues of the physical kind afterwards. The moment passes and she returns her attention to the King and the other Elders.

[TreyKincaide]

Well, I just stepped in it. I had no idea. I'm sure I can apologize and sweep things under the rug.

[Wired*Nun]

Fiona chimes in sourly. "Attend, children, to the repercussions of unrestrained lust for power, be it Brands', or Eric's, or Corwin's." Julian raises his glass in a mock toast to her words.

To Kat, Random says, "No problem, I was planning on it anyway. Good thinking actually." He rubs the bridge of his nose.

"The curse should have played itself out with Eric's death. I am only guessing here, no one has had much experience with it. Now where was I." He consults his notes. "Ah, yes, something like 'six'. Benedict?"

Benedict picks up the sniper rifle. "Prints on it, no matches. Probably a shadow asassin, waste of effort. The weapon is Earth manufacture, not the newest, highest quality. So, no way to trace that either. The ammo is more interesting. Nine rounds left in the clip, and it matches neither Corwin's batch nor Rinaldo's that he got for Dalt's men. Of course, the materials could have been obtained before I clamped a lid on its manufacture and sale in Avalon. The expended bullet is more interesting still. Fi?"

Fiona leans back in her chair and brushes her short bob back over one ear, and says, "Llew? Hand me that, will you?" Llewella slides the jar gently down the table. The jar has the deformed bullet in it, which she lifts in her left hand. With her right, she puts her fingertips to her temple, and recites, "The bullet was imbued with, for want of a better term, Trump teflon. It was filled with an energy that allowed it to get through my ward, which normally should have kept out a bullet. When the energy impacted the ward, it created a hole for long enough for the bullet to penetrate. Now before anyone goes jumping the gun, so to speak," and here she looks pointedly at Gerard, "we still have a lot to do before any assaults are ordered - begging your pardon, Random." She takes a breath. "The energy in the bullet was congruent with the energy from that Fount of Power at the Keep of the Four Worlds."

At this, Gerard stands up, his chair going over backwards. "Damn that son of a bitch, I will kill him with my own hands!" he roars.

"SIT. DOWN. Please, Gerard," barks Random. "This is just what Fi said, we need to plan, and be sure, not go running off half-cocked. That may be just what they want us to do. Go on, Fi."

Fiona sighs. "Searching for motives will be difficult. There are too many questions. Why do we have the weapon? With prints? Where did the ammo come from? Why this way, and why Joss? It could have easily been the King. It doesn't add up. There are too many gaps, too many holes. The obvious guess would be this Dunstan taking revenge for Joss laying hands on him. Maybe so, it fits with what we know - but Gerard, with all sympathy, you didn't know Joss all that well. He could have been hiding something from you, some entanglement. And here's one for you youngers: where did that Siodmak fellow go? Llewella saw him last night, and he left in the company of Elress. Elress has now disappeared, and Siodmak with her. Roland, you say you found Joss and Siodmak in the Keep already talking with Dunstan. That could have been a setup from the start. Too many questions."

[Thanos]

More than anything Heldrik has been watching the family, noticing their every move: the way the stand, flip their hair, their weapons, confidences, knowledge, demeanor, and silence. The Lord-General and his daughter catches his attention a little more often than the others though. Josh on the backside of him is viewed through a very small reflection in a candle stick holder on the table, which Heldrik has to slouch ever so slightly to see.

They seem to be well organized, but there is a tension that is not born of the murder. Perhaps it is because I am a stranger to all of this, but something is off.

Heldrik does but nod to the King when he names Finndo as his father.
[if allowed to say something]
"Only my true family would have been able to figure that out and thus ye have past the only test that I care about. Ye have my support in this crisis, if you wish is, although any Oath will come at a point when I know better the kingdom and what it stands for."

Heldrik remains silent otherwise unless spoken to directly.

[LynMars]

"Dunstan...Maybe. I don't think it would be so much for revenge for Joss nearly strangling him--though that may have contributed--as much as he's wanted Amber's attention for some time now. But that doesn't make sense, either. He wants our help, not our animosity."

[Pygysys]

In Kat's opinion there are still many things left unsaid, so she has no wish to interupt the flow of information and directions, which she is sure are yet to come. She turns slightly in Heldrik's direction. It's not our tests for them they care about, more their tests for us. Her voice is lowered so she can finally bid Heldrik welcome in a manner more fitting than their previous meeting, "Welcome to Amber, Cousin." Nothing else is said as she turns her attention to the King and Elders once more to await the rest of what they are bound to impart.

[Wired*Nun]

Seeing the unanswered questions in everyone's eyes, Random says, "Let's take a break, I haven't peed since the balcony, I think. Give yourselves some time to think about all this. Flora, can you get some food and drink in here, someone might be hungry, and some more coffee? And Josh, relax, I'm satisfied Heldrik wasn't involved in this -- but he is now." With that, he and Vialle go out the back entrance, and Flora heads for the main doors to order the food.

[TreyKincaide]

Someone named Joss is either injured or dead shot by a gun that fires in Amber. Gerard's son by the sound of it. Must have been at a social function. Although someone power and sly enough to sneak past Fiona is a dangerous person indeed. If it wasn't for the present circumstances, I'd bet Flora would be pleased that someone one upped her sister. I don't know who all the people are, or, for that matter, what in the Unicorn's name is the Keep of The Four Worlds? Why did Flora want me her in the midst of turmoil when she's taken great pains of making sure I stay away from Amber? Why now? I'm sure I'll find out soon enough.

[Shutter]

"I spoke with Dunstan after Joss left the keep. I specificaly asked whether he planned revenge, he said that he didn't. In and of itself, that's likely meaningless. Dunstan didn't strike me as stupid, he was young, tempermental, but he seemed to have a solid grasp of the concept of leverage. He knows well enough that if the Royal Family seeks his destruction, he will be destroyed, despite the strength he has at the Keep." Roland pauses and thinks for a moment. "Have you all been filled in on what happened at the Keep?" If anyone needs to be filled in he will do so, leaving nothing out...not even the brunette, the time for pride has passed.

"I would argue that we do need to look into Dunstan, else the notion that this is too obvious for him has little weight. This does seem to obvious though, I think someone is trying to point us at Dunstan." But far be it from me to be the first one to point a finger at Rinaldo...Or anyone else...I don't really trust this Josh fellow, but Random vouches for him, that will do for now I suppose...and Heldrik, so much pride...need to learn more about him...

[chalice]

Gray leans her head on one hand, trying to make some sense of the unfamiliar names and phrases.

"Thank you, Roland," she says faintly.

[Shutter]

Seeing the looks on Landon and Gray's faces...

"I'm sorry, you have both missed an active few days..." He then explains what happened at the ceremony, if no one asked for a briefing on the Keep earlier, he'll give it now in shortened form.

[Thanos]

Once Random has left Heldrik will stand and give a formal bow to Katarzyna, "It is my fortune to be in your presence. It is good to see such a gathering. Certainly our enemies have much to fear once we know them."

Truly someone with grace and spirit!

Heldrik will act very polite and friendly with anybody that introduces themself giving them some form of compliment regardless even if only on their shoes.

When the food arrives Heldrik will certainly take a few pieces of fruit and some water.

[chalice]

"And...who is Rinaldo? And Merlin?"

[TreyKincaide]

Feeling rather small in comparison to the elder Amberites in the room, Landon observes their reactions and places faces and voices to pictures and Flora's gossip. He wears an appropriate expression of concern.

You're Flora's. You're expected to gossip. Come across as stupid and overly chatting you idiot. Just keep it short. No need to anger Gerard with fluff.

"Merlin's the King of Chaos, dear. Rinaldo is his friend, child of Brand's, and King of one of the Shadows in the Golden Circle, I believe."

[Pygysys]

Once Random has left Heldrik will stand and give a formal bow to Katarzyna, "It is my fortune to be in your presence. It is good to see such a gathering. Certainly our enemies have much to fear once we know them."
Kat tells Heldrik, "If fortune had favored us, we would have met, all of us, in better circumstance. I am glad to know you for family rather than an enemy. I have a feeling that enemy doesn't fear us regardless of who we are. They have shown that with their attack."

She looks across at Roland, "You know Siodmak better than any of us. Can you recall anything he might have said about where he came from or the like? Was he or was he not family? Did Dunstan drop any hints to his being there along with you and Joss?"

She then looks to Landon and Agraynel, "As for who is tied to whom, I'm of little use to any as my other cousins already know." Here she gestures to Roland and Raevyn, "I've only recently arrived and know rather little of the family's history, within and without."

[Thanos]

Heldrik nods at Kat's comment, not having ever known the deceased his sorrow is rather shallow, but still there. "These others, Flora named them, they are all our cousins? The family is very large, but seeing as the last time I was here was about 2000 Amber years ago I wonder why I am surprised."

Time to open up a little, they are family, the only one that I have.

[Shutter]

She looks across at Roland, "You know Siodmak better than any of us. Can you recall anything he might have said about where he came from or the like? Was he or was he not family? Did Dunstan drop any hints to his being there along with you and Joss?"
Roland shakes his head slowly.

"I don't know much. Dunstan called him "brother", but I don't know if Dunstan was speaking about his maternal or paternal side, or maybe he was just being figurative. They were alike in that the Trumps they made were both odd. Not quite the same as each other's styles, but different from a propper Trump, based upon Pattern...I don't know where Siodmak came from, somewhere in shadow, they had a lot frozen food apparently...As for what I saw of the man himself, he struck me as a disgusting person. Prone to violence, power hungry, entirely self serving...Not particularly smart. It was his idea to attack Dunstan through Trump, despite us all having a pretty clear indication that Dunstan had been through the Fount...If Dunstan were to have had someone killed, I'd expect Siodmak, not Joss." I wonder though...so much is uncertain with people like this...hmm...I seem to be giving away a lot of information without getting anything in return...that can't be a very good practice.

[Pygysys]

When Roland replies to her, Kat appears to take something down as a mental note. "Then I suppose if anyone knows anything about Siodmak, it's going to be Dunstan. I'm inclined to agree that Siodmak would be a better target than Joss, which makes me wonder again, why Joss? Was it so deliberate in the sense of who the target was, or again, was it chance?"

Looking away from Roland and turning back to Heldrik and his words about family, Kat chuckles and tries to let the tension ease off a little. Heldrik's got it in a nutshell, she and he are surrounded by family, so it's not like anyone's about to stick a dagger into her back or shoot that sniper rifle in her direction.

Even though Heldrik has probably heard it before or gathered the information in his observations, she points out the connections. "Yes, it does seem we're rather large and we've grown since my arrival a week or so ago. Roland is Julian's son and along with Raevyn, Gerard's daughter, the two I know most of all. I haven't actually really had the pleasure of meeting Josh and only know what Raevyn's told me." She looks to where Agraynel and Landon are, "It would seem that Agraynel is Eric's daughter and I'd guess that Landon is connected to Florimel, or that they're close enough for her to be the one to Trump him through."

Realising she hasn't eaten since the picnic, Kat moves towards the food and piles up an assortment of things onto a plate. "If you have any questions, Heldrik, I'll try to tell you what I know. Essentially, however, Roland's pretty much accounted for what transpired with Dunstan. I wasn't involved in any of it, so we're best to follow his lead in that regard."

[Thanos]

Heldrik follows Kat to the table and picks fruits and a block of cheese along with a big cup of water.
"So there are forces related to the Family that against us? The King mentioned that Merlin was the king of a place called Chaos, what is that, I have never heard of it?"

Places, people, so much, so fast, but I have been trained to take this kind of thing in during my stay in shadow Tormal.

[Pygysys]

"I'm not sure of the in's and out's of such, I only know that Merlin is Corwin's son and he's now the King of Chaos. Chaos is I suppose the polar opposite of Amber. We are here and they are there at the other end. I do not know that much else, nor much of the politics surrounding the Courts and Amber. I have played no part in either and lived a somewhat sheltered existance." She pauses to start eating some of the food off her plate.

[Thanos]

Heldrik smiles at Kat knowing the feeling of not knowing.
"If it is any comfort to ye, I know even less about the politics of this place and none of the other. I am sure though that given time we can certainly become immersed in them as we choose. In some ways I feel cheated that I could not grow up with others like myself. In other ways I cherish the solitude and ignorance, there was less danger and fewer responsibilities. One must grow up some time."

Now, if only the others turn out to be as pleasant to get to know as this fine lady.

Heldrik finds the banana that he is eating very engaging for the next few moments enjoying its sweat tenderness.

[Pygysys]

Kat continues to pick at the food on her plate, "Yes, there is a time when one must shoulder the burden of responsibility. I feel as if this time is upon us all." She looks around the room at her various cousins. How many of us are ready to carry that burden though? Landon seems a fop, but how much is for show? Agraynel doesn't look like she can last a full day's travel. Roland still seems very capable and Raevyn's judgement may be affected, if not by the loss of a brother she hardly knew, but by the impact it will have upon her father. Heldrik seems like me, one from the castoffs. I'll assume for now Joshua is, he's already known and accounted for.

"Did you say two thousand years?" She asks Heldrik, "And your father was Finndo, did you know him?"

[Thanos]

Nodding Heldrik says, "Well its been about 2000 years here, for me it was only 180 or so. The last time I was here, there was a wood fort where this castle stands and my father and I were lowered down into the caverns in a bucket with a winch we operated ourselves. I did know him somewhat as he visited me often enough when I was younger, but it seemed that he was gone a little longer after each visit."

So many not knowing their parents as well as I saw those in shadow know theirs. Did we end up different? Are we less human?

"He was a strong man both of mind and arm, but so much about him is still a mystery."

[LynMars]

Raevyn quietly listens for a time, pulling out cardstock and drawing. This time, however, she's actually sketching Trumps. 'I have to spend a few days making real cards...How many more people are going to show up? At this rate, I'll never be finished... She starts with Kat, mentally figuring how much time it will take to make new Trumps for everyone.

[Pygysys]

Nodding Heldrik says, "Well its been about 2000 years here, for me it was only 180 or so. The last time I was here, there was a wood fort where this castle stands and my father and I were lowered down into the caverns in a bucket with a winch we operated ourselves. I did know him somewhat as he visited me often enough when I was younger, but it seemed that he was gone a little longer after each visit."

So many not knowing their parents as well as I saw those in shadow know theirs. Did we end up different? Are we less human?

"He was a strong man both of mind and arm, but so much about him is still a mystery."Kat can't even begin to imagine such a time, so she continues eating as Heldrik speaks about Finndo. "Perhaps his own duty to Amber kept him longer each time. I do not know much about your father, I was told only that he was a Prince of Amber and that he is dead." Do I break this news to you, or do you know it already? She reaches for a drink, "Do you take after your father, strong in mind and arm? Or are you your own man, following a different path to the one he walked?"

[Thanos]

"My experiences until recently have been rather narrow, all of 4 shadows, compared to what is really out there in the universe. Thus I have not really decided how to proceed. I am what I am today because of the structure my father put around me...In more ways than one...so I am either what he wanted me to be or just a product of my situation. I have had no one to test my skills against."
Such a question, so quickly, should I take it as odd or let it slip by unnoticed? I can understand her wish to know the strengths of her allies, but is it prudent for me to let her know?
"Your skill with a blade is likely far beyond mine, for instance, due to your time with the guard and the fact of who your father is." Heldrik nods and smiles at Raevyn,"On the other hand the talented young lady over here is working her art even know. She is likely more skilled with pen and paper than either of us."

[LynMars]

Raeyvn glances up briefly and smiles at Heldrik's remark, blushing only slightly. She then returns to concentrating fully on the Sketch.

'I need 6 of each...though I only need 5 of me...yeah, this'll take awhile...Starting in the morning, I'm painting until they're done.'

[Pygysys]

Kat glances over at Raevyn as Heldrik points her out and agrees with him. "I'm inclined to agree with you on that matter but not so much the other. Regardless of who my father is, or yours, we are not they. If another makes the presumption that I am better skilled than they in martial skill, that's their mistake for me to capitalise upon. I do know that I cannot draw like Raevyn and have no skill in the art of Trumps, but on the other hand, I do know that I can cook." A friendly grin accompanies the last sentence but she doesn't explain the rationale behind admitting that skill, content to finish the food on her plate instead.

[LynMars]

Raevyn giggles a little as she draws. "Guess we'll have to find out sometime soon. Next time, I'm getting my own horse. Josh, you didn't happen to bring Spindrift back with you, did you?"

[Pygysys]

Kat laughs, "I look forward to it, I think Bordase has room for improvement." She glances at Heldrik, "Do you have your own steed? If not, we'll have to acquire you one from the stables. We're developing a liking for the race."

[Wired*Nun]

Raevyn giggles a little as she draws. "Guess we'll have to find out sometime soon. Next time, I'm getting my own horse. Josh, you didn't happen to bring Spindrift back with you, did you?"
"Umm, yes, I led him remount to Avalon, both he and Achilles are there still, since we came in from there on Trump. We can get him when we like, pretty much. I have a Trump of Castle Avalon."

"Anyone care to speculate on our assignments? Hope they don't split up a team," he says, giving Raevyn a shy wink.

[chalice]

Gray sits quietly, watching and listening, trying to come to terms with the amount of time that has passed here while she slept.

Eventually, she will put together some bread, fruit and cheese on a plate and shyly place it beside Raevyn.

"I don't want to disturb you, " she offers softly. "But you seem to be working hard; I thought you might be hungry."

Even more quietly, she adds "I wanted to say, I am sorry for your loss. You don't know me, so my sympathy can't mean much to you. But for what it's worth, it's yours. I - I know what it's like, to lose someone close."

She bites her lip, wondering if she has intruded where she isn't wanted.

[Pygysys]

"Umm, yes, I led him remount to Avalon, both he and Achilles are there still, since we came in from there on Trump. We can get him when we like, pretty much. I have a Trump of Castle Avalon."

"Anyone care to speculate on our assignments? Hope they don't split up a team," he says, giving Raevyn a shy wink.
"Good question," says Kat as she again looks about the room at her cousins. "I wouldn't be surprised if they did split us. Currently as we stand there are seven of us. There could be more to join us but I would have thought they'd have been included before now." Putting down her now empty plate, she considers aloud the options, "It would make sense that if they did split us, they'd do so in a fashion to ensure all bases were covered, including arts. I suppose it comes down to what they want us to do and what we're capable of actually doing, individually and together."

So this will be one way to find out. If they do split us, Roland will lead one group and I suspect Joshua the other. Landon doesn't seem the type, nor can I imagine Heldrik answering to him. Agraynel has been too far removed for too long and doesn't seem strong enough, she's also timid. Heldrik and myself are still wildcards amongst the deck and Raevyn would need a strong second. So if we three are split, I know that Raevyn would have at least one friend in either Roland, Joshua or myself. Damn it! Why is this taking so long?

"If we were split in two, I think the groups would be Joshua, Raevyn, Landon and Agraynel in one, with Roland, Heldrik and myself making up the other. Anyone else care to guess? It passes the time with interest if nothing else."

[chalice]

Gray looks up from where she is sitting with Raevyn, and studies Kat consideringly for a moment. Then her eyes drop again.

She's nervous,that one. Craves talk, action, anything so she doesn't have to be still and think. I wonder what she's trying so hard not to think about...?

[Thanos]

Heldrik remembers that his horse is still in Arden, "Bill is still with Julians rangers in the forest, but he is a horse that has gotten used to shadow shifting more than racing I think."

[after the comment about how the breakdown will occur]

"It would seem only fitting that each group, if we are split up and sent places, would be led by one of the Knights of the Realm." With that Heldrik smiles and looks to each of the people he knows to be such assuming that Joshua is numbered among them.

Yes. Yes indeed. Now why ever would she mention cooking? Is Kat subtly telling me that she can perform the womanly arts as well as swing a blade?

[TreyKincaide]

Landon stands and walks over to the small group having spent time gossipping and courtiering with the elders in the room. "I'm sorry, I don't mean to intrude. An interesting question was raised, and perhaps I can comment? Yes? I regret that we aren't as intimately familiar as we should be, and that such a sad state of affairs is the catalyst for bringing us together this day." Landon's eyes glance particularly to both Raevyn and Kat as he speaks.

Landon's voice lowers and softens, "As far as teams go. Well, I suppose, that depends on if they wish us to succeed or merely get us out of harm's way. Quite an astute observation, Joshua," Landon nods to his cousin, "that they wouldn't bring us here if they didn't wish gift us with some task or another. However, it stands to reason that individuals they choose will not necessarily be based on merit. I'm sure that politics," Landon waves his right hand dismissively as he slightly stresses the last word, "will figure in."

Is Heldrik really as simple as he appears to be or is it a ruse? Both Kat and Roland seem to be formidable. Haven't interacted enough, but Roland like Julian seems a bit transparent--a what you see is what you get kinda guy. Kat, on the other hand, seems interesting if a bit poor at etiquette. Raevyn's either really good or what she appears.

As Flora said, never under any circumstances, underestimate the women of the family. The men will kill you, the women will make you wish you were dead. As a rule they're far more subtle out of necessity.

[Shutter]

Roland listens to the conversation, quietly eating and thinking.

"Your horse is named Bill too is it? Odd coincidence." Fluff, all he gives us is fluff...

[chalice]

"If you need any explanation or just want to chat, I'll be glad to help as much as I can."
Gray smiles at Raevyn - a surprisingly sweet expression that softens and lightens her drawn face and uncertain eyes.

"Thank you. I would like that." I think. "I haven't really tried to take everything in yet, but someone to talk to and plague with questons when I do might be...nice..." her voice trails off again.

__________________


Gray has been puzzling something over. If she can speak to the others without raising her voice without moving from Raevyn's side, she does - otherwise, she gets up and hesitantly approaches the other group.

"You were talking earlier about someone called 'Siomadk'? Landon, didn't you tell me that the inhabitants of one Shadow you passed through mentioned a 'Cymak'?" She looks up at Landon for confirmation. "I - I wondered if they could be the same person?"

She looks down at the floor again, plainly uncomfortable at drawing any attention to herself.

[LynMars]

Joshua: "Umm, yes, I led him remount to Avalon, both he and Achilles are there still, since we came in from there on Trump. We can get him when we like, pretty much. I have a Trump of Castle Avalon."

"Anyone care to speculate on our assignments? Hope they don't split up a team," he says, giving Raevyn a shy wink.
"I'll be glad to get her back," Raevyn replies, not making a big deal out of the minor mistake. She thinks about the possibility of teams. "I wonder...Teams would be practical, but..." She frowns and looks from Josh to Kat to Roland, then to the new additions of Agraynel, Landon, and Heldrik. Three she knows, three she doesn't. She apparently gets something like an opportunity, though...

Agraynel: Eventually, she will put together some bread, fruit and cheese on a plate and shyly place it beside Raevyn.

"I don't want to disturb you, " she offers softly. "But you seem to be working hard; I thought you might be hungry."

Even more quietly, she adds "I wanted to say, I am sorry for your loss. You don't know me, so my sympathy can't mean much to you. But for what it's worth, it's yours. I - I know what it's like, to lose someone close."
"Hm? Oh, thank you. I wasn't thinking about food, though I suppose I should eat something. Thank you for your concern. And I'm sorry, too, for all that happened while you were sleeping. This sudden change can't be terribly comfortable for you. If you need any explanation or just want to chat, I'll be glad to help as much as I can."

[TreyKincaide]

"Possibly. It could have even been a shadow of him for all I know. They weren't overly helpful all things considered."

[Shutter]

Landon: "Possibly. It could have even been a shadow of him for all I know. They weren't overly helpful all things considered."
Roland looks up, focusing on Landon and Gray.

"Where was this?" I wonder...how big a player could he be?

[TreyKincaide]

Landon answers, "In a fairy tale Shadow I visited quite by accident. I was whiling away time in a place much like Victorian London when a shadow friend of mine invited me over for a demonstration. I found that the man Admunson, who at the time, I believed to be a normal denizen of shadow had found a way of fashioning trumps without the backing of the Pattern or it's opposite. To make a long story short I ended up in a far away land where my trumps wouldn't work. Only through trial and error did I stumble upon Agraynal. I didn't realize I was this close to Amber my destination being Shadow Earth."

[Shutter]

"Interesting...would you mind giving me the long version? This Siodmak had strange Trump abilities."

[LynMars]

"I still have those Sketches he made for us in the Keep, if someone else wants a look at them. They are rather odd; not quite based off Pattern, though I haven't taken much time myself to examine them. If he's vanished along with another..." She shakes her head, a slightly disgusted look on her face, which just doesn't seem to go there. "I don't care much for him; he made me rather uncomfortable when we met."

[TreyKincaide]

"Not really much more to tell except that Admunson said that he found a manuscript in his youth that took him his lifetime to decipher which led to the creation. He did remark that after the had learned what he could that the manuscript was misplaced." Landon admits. "The whole affair was bothersome indeed. Before then I had discounted his hints as being another of his flights of fancy. He almost blew himself, Arthur, and me up during one notable experiment with Time Travel. In all ways he was representative of the age and culture."

[Shutter]

"But what did you hear about this "Cymak" fellow? Dunstan let a few things slip about Siodmak, odd things that may or may not be distincitve, details could really help here Landon." Even though being a vague little fop is safer. "Too many odd things involving Trump for my tastes. I'd like to know what's connected and what isn't."

[chalice]

Gray sends an apologetic look Landon's way

It was just a thought. Didn't expect them to jump on it and give you a hard time.

[TreyKincaide]

It seems that I have something that dear Roland believes is valuable. Aside from the fact that Cymaq was probably blonde I know very little, but he doesn't know that. He also doesn't understand the importance of Admunson being a Trump artist being more concerned about the known than the unknown. All of these things are good to know for later. So, how should I answer him if at all? Become indignant? Bait him to draw out more? Allude to knowing a bit more than I'm letting on? Some combination should suffice.

Landon smiles after taking a sip from a nearby goblet swept up in an exaggerated manner. He dramatically pauses and appears to enjoy being the center of attention. He sighs and responds with an ever so slight edge to his voice, "Good sir, I daresay I know nothing more than the name. Walking and talking bears, cats, and assorted other beasts don't distinguish between us folk with any degree of accuracy."

[LynMars]

Raevyn clears her throat and pulls out the Sketches Siodmak gave her. "Here, Landon, these are what I mean. I'm not sure if you know anything about Trump, but perhaps, if there is a connection, you'll see some sort of similarity?"

'And maybe you and Roland will stop baiting each other, before one of you loses his temper.'

[chalice]

Walking and talking bears, cats, and assorted other beasts don't distinguish between us folk with any degree of accuracy."Distaste flickers across Gray's face.

"They sound horrible. Neither one thing nor the other. Just all...wrong.

"Real beasts distinguish between you perfectly well."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon smiles and appraises the work that Raevyn gave him, "Unfortunately, I have never met this man and can't be of much help. Admunson as I implied earlier was quite old and of how should I say," Landon pauses, "of jolly disposition?"

He returns the Trump to its maker and bows with a slight flourish and nods knowingly to Raevyn.

Perceptive and bold enough to attempt dissuading a possible conflict. Good girl. It wouldn't do for Roland to lose his temper and his face in front of all his newly met relatives. For her favor I will desist. Should he press the matter, it'll appear in all ways to be his fault. Most excellent.

[Shutter]

"Walking and talking creatures? In a fairy tale world?...Doesn't ring a bell. The fact that this Asmundson has access to Trump abilities is cause for concern. I find your lack of willingness to disclose information...troubling. Blood has been shed, more will soon follow. Family blood, our blood. By playing games with the facts you make yourself out to be either a little game player, or the enemy. I doubt the latter and I'd hoped for better than the former. That's fine, personal choice is a wonderful thing, but bear in mind that these things work both ways."

Ah good, the kids can now squabble in full view of the elders, along with whoever else is watching off in shadow...fantastic....twit, playing little games right now.

[Pygysys]

So what have we learnt here? Siodmak could be a Cymak elsewhere, there's a fellow called Admunson who creates Trumps without the Pattern or its opposite, and there's a shadow or two filled with talking animals. Kat seems to smile at nothing really important. And the men are jostling as expected.

"I'd hazard a guess and suggest we have two possible lines of inquiry? There's Dunstan back at the Keep and the land of make believe in Shadow. Of course that depends on what the Elders will want us investigating. Will they want us tracking down Siodmak? Will they want us questioning Dunstan?" She shrugs and finally grabs a chair and sits down. "Maybe they'll just want us somewhere out of the way so we don't get in the way as they chase the real leads down. With the information they've presented us so far, they really haven't told us all that much. The thing that concerns me the most is the weapon used and the target chosen." An apologetic look is cast Raevyn's way, "Joss was only recently arrived here in Amber, along with Roland and myself. Even if he had enemies in Shadow and this was a personal individual attack, then he had one hell of an enemy and I'd like to know more about them before I walk into their playground. They have the advantage, which they took from us here in Amber."

[TreyKincaide]

Landon leans in close to Roland and whispers, "Dear sir. I did not come here to be interrogated, and quite frankly am insulted by any allegations that you imply. Who are you to ask that has provided so little? I do not pry and question the veracity of the little amount that I've heard you volunteer. Futhermore, I haven't resorted to misappropriate labeling and I believe this is the end of our little discusssion. I find myself in little want of helping you," Landon slightly stresses the last, "any longer until you can show some degree of civility."

Landon pointedly turns his back and returns daintily to his former seat smiling as if nothing happened.

[chalice]

This time Gray's apologetic look is for Raevyn

"Someone said earlier they thought if Dunstan were behind the assassination, Siodmak would have been a more likely target than Joss - because Siodmak had annoyed him.

"I don't think that works. It sounds rather as if Dunstan - or someone, via him - might have been checking out out whether any of you could be bought, or bullied, into 'changing sides', or working against the Family. What the potential was for corrupting you. It sounds to me, on what little I've heard, that Siodmak might well be content to be bought, and so potentially of some future use to Dunstan. So worth keeping alive. But that there was no chance of his corrupting Joss. Maybe Joss was used in the only way he could be - to send a message..."

Talking too much. Sound like an idiot...and now I've probably upset Raevyn, and she's the one who's been nicest.

Gray shuts up, biting her lower lip.

[Wired*Nun]

Random and Vialle come back in. Unless they make their ablutions together regularly, they probably wanted to discuss something privately. Everyone drifts back to the table, and the doors are again shut.

"All right, I guess it's 'seven' now. From the top, here are the assignments, let me know if there's a problem. Benedict, start working on a field force to use in Shadow - on the Keep or wherever. Gerard, coordinate with Benedict in case we need to trasport and support by sea."

Gerard breaks in, "I'm not going to leave this to others, Random. I will have justice, and I will have vengeance in this."

Random replies, "You have my word that as soon as we know enough to move, you will be at the front of the battle. For now, Amber has been stung but not crippled, and Amber is what we must think about." Gerard lapses back in his seat, clearly unhappy, but going along with it for now.

"Flora, coordinate intelligence here in Amber. Do what you do best, just put the social calender on the back burner. Llewella, I'd like you to be my Foreign Minister again for a while, handle the other Kingdoms, and routine contacts with Chaos. Fill Moire in, get Martin to do what he can to further secure Rebma. Fiona, mystical defense. Find a way to make sure that 'Trump teflon' is not effective again. Find a way to give us a warning when such energies are anywhere near. I also want you to start thinking about a way to secure Tir-na Nog'th without devoting someone every night to doing so."

"Bleys, I want you to start scrying and investigating with your powers. Take a look at Kashfa in detail, and scrye out the Keep and pass info to the Keep team. I also want an update later on the Jewel situation. Julian, you are in charge of Amber defenses on land, all the way out to Arden."

"That leaves our operations teams. I don't think you ladies and gentlemen are expendable; far from it. If there is one thing I have learned since I assumed this office, though, it's that responsibility brings chains. We elders are more and more chained to Amber as time goes on. We have to fill Oberon's shoes and protect Amber, while the new generation take over as the first line of defense. That's why I need you all."

"First, I want Roland to head up a team of Josh, Katarzyna and Raevyn. Your job is to follow up on the obvious trail of the Dunstan, Keep angle. Keep in mind our reservations about the evidence. It could always be a double bluff. Speculation is useless, we need to find out."

"Second, Landon will take Agraynel, Heldrik and hopefully Benedict's son Arrotel to find Siodmak and Elress. I want Siodmak brought back for questioning."

"Both teams have wide discretion. Keep Amber's interests in mind, but we don't have any treaties with Jasra or Dunstan or anyone else in the Keep. Use good judgment, be careful who you kill. If you find leads to more, or more important, information, follow them. Report back in to Flora. You are all grown up, whether you feel like it or not."

"Agraynel, I hate to send you out into the wilds so soon after being found, but Landon has to go, so you might as well go with him, and we need everyone contributing. Sometimes I don't get the luxury of being kind."

"Requisition anything you need, talk to to whomever you need to. You are all nobles of Amber; act like the royalty you are."

It looks like the time for questions and discussions.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon sits back and digests the information pondering the task logically at hand as well as possible reasons why he's in charge of one of the teams before asking, "Does anyone have a Trump of this Elress that I could borrow for the time being? I must admit I have never had the pleasure of her acquaintance."

[chalice]

Gray frowns...

He's sending the people who have never encountered Siodmak, or Elress, to find them? Odd. Almost as if he doesn't want them found.

...but stays quiet

Still the further I am from Random, the happier I'll be.

[Shutter]

Landon:"Who are you to ask that has provided so little?
Roland just smiles politely and nods to Landon.

Very well, call it that if you like..listened just fine when I was describing the Keep in detail...twit.

[Shutter]

Roland turns to Landon et al. Damn it, called my bluff, I can't hold back information...

"Be careful with Siodmak, his mind is strong, and he uses Trumps to attack...quite lecherous too."

I wonder how Dunstan will take this...

[Pygysys]

Kat's sympathy goes to Heldrik. It shall be interesting to see how you well you fare with those two, especially Landon. I'd like to make a show of family here and tell them to take care of my 'little brother' but I don't want to rub salt into Raevyn and Gerard's wounds either. Best to get it over and done with and perhaps get Heldrik an ally of sorts.

"Heldrik, I ask a favor of you. Arrotel and I have yet to meet, would you pass along my regards and my regret that such a meeting has been unfortunately delayed a little longer?" And for his ears alone, she whispers, "Keep an eye on him for me?"

Standing, Kat makes her way over to where Roland is. "Looks like Raevyn's going to get a chance to cook for us sooner than we thought."

It's not the best humor but if the thought can occassionally keep her distracted from grief then it's something. I should probably assign the Orphans somehow too. I'll wait till I know how we're going to handle our task and then assign half the men to Arrotel and Heldrik, the other two can accompany myself and the others.

[chalice]

"Do we have anything that belonged to Siodmak? And Elress, too?"

[chalice]

[at some suitable point during the duiscussions]

Gray approaches Heldrik and offers a shy smile.

"We haven't really met, cousin." She offers her hand to shake. "But it seems we are to hunt together."

[Wired*Nun]

Landon sits back and digests the information pondering the task logically at hand as well as possible reasons why he's in charge of one of the teams before asking, "Does anyone have a Trump of this Elress that I could borrow for the time being? I must admit I have never had the pleasure of her acquaintance."
Bleys takes out his deck, shuffles one out and sails it across the table in a perfect arc to Landon. "I've been trying her, she's not blocking me, she's inaccessable. Doesn't mean she will always be, or you can get to a place or state where it will work. The little...vixen doesn't usually take my calls anyway, but in this case I'd break through if it were possible."

[chalice]

Roland turns to Landon et al. Damn it, called my bluff, I can't hold back information...

"Be careful with Siodmak, his mind is strong, and he uses Trumps to attack...quite lecherous too."
"Thank you, Roland, that's kind. Can you...is there any way you can define what you mean by 'strong'? Anyone to compare him to?"

He'll help us if you let him, Landon.

[Wired*Nun]

"Do we have anything that belonged to Siodmak? And Elress, too?"
Llewella says, "I've searched his room, he left nothing. I've searched Elress' room, and there are traces of him there, but again, he left nothing. He travels remarkably light."

[TreyKincaide]

Roland is a genuinely upright person. I feel bad for testing him so.

Landon meets Rolands across the table in a rare moment of genuine regard, respect, and admiration as if argument between two has come to an unspoken resolution from Landon's end.

"My thanks," with a slight nod is the only further response.

If there only was another way I could deal with my family, but the way I know how. Sometimes being an intentional twit is more trouble than it's worth.

Landon catches the Trump, studies it to his satisfaction, and puts it with the rest intending on showing it to Gray and Heldrik later. "Thanks Uncle."

Bleys. I like him. I shouldn't, but it's hard not to.

[chalice]

Llewella says, "I've searched his room, he left nothing. I've searched Elress' room, and there are traces of him there, but again, he left nothing. He travels remarkably light."
"Mm. But he should still have left scent."

Especially if you mean what I think you do by 'traces'.

"I'd like to be able to recognise it. Would you mind if I checked, before we leave? Perhaps Arthur, too?"

She looks at Landon, as if checking for approval.

[TreyKincaide]

"Of course. If you wish, Arthur and you can see to that while I'm arranging mounts for the both of us and supplies with Heldrik."

He pauses and appears to remember something, "Oh, yes, there is one thing I've forgotten. I found this in Admunson's room." Landon says as he fishes the Trump glass out of his pocket. "He said something about it translating the manuscript, but as far I could tell it's just a simple piece of glass." He gets up and walks it over to Fiona.

[Wired*Nun]

Bleys. I like him. I shouldn't, but it's hard not to.
Bleys gives Landon a sardonic look and a half-grin. Makes you almost think he can read minds...

Josh calls out, "Lester, stop that!" Lester has sneaked up on Arthur and is trying to light his tail with a candle. Alerted by Josh, Arthur whips around and snaps, but too slow. Lester runs up a curtain and perches on top, looking like a rodent Lady Liberty. Josh walks over, holds up his hand and Lester leaps to it still holding the candle in a remarkably dexstrous grip. Taking the candle, Josh puts it back in its holder, and Lester back on his shoulder.

Arthur keeps his eye on Lester from now on.

[Wired*Nun]

Fiona takes the lens from Landon. She examines it for a few moments, and puts it down. "Traces of shadow magic. Nothing now. It looks like it used to house a translation spell of some sort, which probably unraveled when it was taken from its home shadow. However, I want to look a little deeper in the lab, I might be able to pull something else out with some time. Mind if I keep it for the moment?"

[TreyKincaide]

"By all means, dear Aunt." Landon smiles as he returns to his seat.

I know it had something to do with Trump. I'm sure Fiona knows damn well that I have an inkling what it is.

[Pygysys]

Kat directs a question Random's way, "Your Majesty, what of an escort for each group? I have a small squad of men at my disposal who are well trained and disciplined. Half could accompany Landon's group and the other Roland's. They will not draw attention to themselves or the group they accompany, nor can they essentially be traced back to Amber but they can be traced back to myself of course." She glances over at Landon, "I would place the men under Heldrik's command as he seems more martial than yourself, but given he will be following your lead, so will they."

[Thanos]

[at some suitable point during the discussions]

Gray approaches Heldrik and offers a shy smile.

"We haven't really met, cousin." She offers her hand to shake. "But it seems we are to hunt together."


Heldrik does nod to Kat at the request and smiles to her.

She is thinking towards the future this woman and perhaps something more, but I will leave it at that and concentrate on the here and now.

Heldrik stands at Grey's approach and gives her a bow, "It does seem that way. If Landon approves we will have to have a little strategy session before we are on our way to find the our prey."

[chalice]

"Seems sensible," Gray agrees with Heldrik.

Steady grey eyes rest thougthfully on Kat for the second time as she makes her suggestion regarding bodyguards.

Trying to undermine Landon already, Kat? Or just to make sure we don't trust Heldrik and he us? I wonder why? Does she want us to fail too? Random must be very weak to let her countermand him like this, and in public.

Maybe she does mean well. But why in the many worlds does she assume we have no resources of our own to call on? Is she really that arrogant? No - this is just to make trouble. Create tension between Landon and Heldrik - she discounts me, that's good - from the start. Wish I understood why.

[Wired*Nun]

Kat directs a question Random's way, "Your Majesty, what of an escort for each group? I have a small squad of men at my disposal who are well trained and disciplined. Half could accompany Landon's group and the other Roland's.
"Captain, I leave that up to you. I would just say to make sure you bring assets, not liabilities."

[Thanos]

Heldrik excuses himself form Grey, "We shall talk more I am sure when we meet as a group, but for now I must talk with Prince Julian about a certain piece of equipment." and walks over to Julian.

Waiting until Julian has a moment Heldrik will ask for his sword back and ask for any instructions that Julian might have on the side.

[Shutter]

Landon:"My thanks," with a slight nod is the only further response.Roland responds with a nod and small genuine smile. Peace to you too cousin.

Turning to Gray..."No, I don't have anything to compare with I'm affraid. How many of us have a common scale for such things? But he was fierce, and strong enough to make me feel it worth mentioning."

Later in the conversation...Scent, she wants his scent? An odd one...familiar with animals too...very disturbed by the walking talking bears...no...no that's just too odd and only happens in books...of course, people have written books about this family...

Roland pulls the Trump sketch Siodmak made of Raevyn out of his satchel and passes it to Gray. "Here, Siodmak made this sketch, so it might bear his scent, I can't really tell."

At this point Lester tries to immolate Arthur and Roland chokes on a drink of water trying not to laugh to hard.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon, mirroring Gray's thoughts, turns to Kat, "While I would agree in your assessment of Heldrik's martial abilities far outweighing my own, I hesitate in bringing a contingent. Speed is of the essence, my dear, and if Siodmak is holed up. Laying siege, at least in our case, is probably not advisable. I am truly moved by your offer and concern, but stealth and guile will be our best allies in apprehending this ruffian especially if he is watching for us."

[Pygysys]

Kat bows her head to Random, "Of course, Your Majesty." They will be assets if used as such but being who they are, it's best they answer to a man who seems martial more so than foppish. I don't know how Landon could react in a crisis, whereas Heldrik would probably act on instinct and allow training to rise to the fore. Something tells me that Landon keeps a trick or two up his sleeve anyway and this ensures that the Orphans will be close to Arrotel as well. Having found Agraynel, I doubt Landon will lose her anytime soon.

She turns away from the Elders and looks to Landon and Roland, "As I said before, they are well trained and disciplined, having undergone the same training as I. If you are concerned about speed and stealth, you shouldn't be. I think you'll find you'll be pleasantly surprised." Now I wonder if you'll assume that training is somehow connected to Benedict and if that will change your mind perhaps.

[LynMars]

Raevyn watches and listens to the exchanges going on around her, knowing she's missing much of the undercurrent, and not liking it. She shifts uneasily in her seat, wondering about things...Like Gray's request about Siodmak's scent; and for that matter, why the ones who have not met Siodmak or Elress are going to find them. 'But then, they haven't been to the Keep and met Dunstan, either, while Roland and I have, and Josh has been looking into it already. I still have to talk to him about what he's found out...Into the fire we go...' The levity provided by Lester and Arthur make her smile a bit, before she speaks out loud.

"I was hoping to get some real Trumps made up for all of us before we had to go, but if that's not feasible, I'll make Sketches. Though if our group finds ourselves in the Keep, Trump will not reach us if Dunstan doesn't allow it, or extreme measures are taken. If you seek out Elress and Siodmak, your Trumps may be blocked as well, depending on where you end up. And he does have a very strong mind, though his discipline seemed somewhat lacking."

[chalice]

Heldrik excuses himself form Grey, "We shall talk more I am sure when we meet as a group, but for now I must talk with Prince Julian about a certain piece of equipment." and walks over to Julian.
And that's put me in my place...I'll let him think so, anyway.

Gray goes back to Landon. "If you don't mind, I'll get someone to take me to check those rooms now. Heldrik wants to meet up and discuss things before we leave. A message to Siodmak's or Elress' rooms should find me."

[OOC: player has to crash soon, sorry - this seems a convenient way to get her off camera]

She waits for any response, then goes off to find a servant. "Please take me to Lady Elress' rooms."

[TreyKincaide]

I will let you win this one cousin. Now I have better measure of you, I daresay you'll not get another oppurtunity. I have little concern for your men and less desire of further responsibility. If these men are trained as well as her, on the other hand, it will give me further insight into her capabilities. Best to be gracious and "let" Heldrick decide for himself.

"Any fears that I might have harbored are well put to rest my eloquent cousin," Landon replies. "If Heldrik wishes to bear the burden of your men's lives and command them in battle, I will not say otherwise. The decision is his alone to make."

Maybe that will disuade him. Doubtful, but he'll get the hint he'll get the blame if they all get slaughtered. Hopefully, he can't be blind enough to put himself in her debt in this manner.

[Wired*Nun]

Heldrik excuses himself form Grey, "We shall talk more I am sure when we meet as a group, but for now I must talk with Prince Julian about a certain piece of equipment." and walks over to Julian.

Waiting until Julian has a moment Heldrik will ask for his sword back and ask for any instructions that Julian might have on the side.
Julian holds up the scabbarded blade. He looks at it, almost as if he would like to hang onto it...but he gives it to Heldrik. "Your father was a friend of mine, a long time back...something of a mentor, even. When he left - disappeared, died perhaps - I grieved. No, that's an older viewpoint. I cried like a baby. He was a beloved brother, and an honorable man. I have to believe that he is gone after all this time. That's what our Father said, anyway, damn his twisted plots. You have a lot to live up to. I am confident you will." With that he claps Heldrik on the shoulder, hard enough to rock him a bit.

[Wired*Nun]

She waits for any response, then goes off to find a servant. "Please take me to Lady Elress' rooms."
A word from Flora and Gray is led up to their rooms. The majordomo bustles up with the key ring and opens first Siodmak's door, then eventually Elress'.

Siodmak's room is bare, just the usual furniture. Gray makes her private examination there, and then takes a look around Elress' room.

[We will catch up with her later]

[Thanos]

He knew and respected my father. If nothing else I wish to do well with this just to have enough respect to be able to ask him about this later.
"Thank you," says Heldrik taking the blade and strapping it to his belt where it belongs. "We shall see what we unknowns can accomplish. The others said that his trumps were not based off of pattern, is there something else that they could be based on?"

Heldrik hears the offer of trained guardsmen and knows what there purpose is for, but in the back of his mind he wonders if they could survive a hellride.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon having said his piece bows to his cousin, goes to hug and kiss Flora, and begins to make preparations to depart.

[Pygysys]

"Any fears that I might have harbored are well put to rest my eloquent cousin," Landon replies. "If Heldrik wishes to bear the burden of your men's lives and command them in battle, I will not say otherwise. The decision is his alone to make."
"Very well." Kat turns to see what Heldrik's response will be. I think I'm beginning to dislike Landon and so far that's a first for me here. Interesting. "Before making your decision Heldrik, let me give you some indication of what they're capable of." She turns to Roland, "Excuse me for a moment." Not wasting any time, she quickly crosses to where Heldrik is and begins to speak quietly with him. "Is there anything in particular you wish to know about their training?"

[Thanos]

[I am supposing there that Julian says that they could be based off of chaos or the brand fountain power, ie something else, but I will leave that line of questioning at the possibility existing, and leave the technical parts for another time]

As Kat approaches Heldrik smiles at Julian as another thank you and then turns on his heel to face Kat.
"Ah, you read my mind. Have they been on a very fast move through shadow? [a hellride] I think that is the fastest way to track down our prey if a proper image can be found or something we can focus on."

[Pygysys]

Kat shakes her head, "No, they haven't. They did travel with me to Amber but we had the luxury of time on our side. However, I have no reason to suspect they will not be able to keep up with you provided that is your intention. I suppose it also depends upon the speed of your mount. They will be equipped with regular steeds, as I suspect Landon and Agraynel will be also. They can scout, track, fight, conceal, lay ambush and siege." She shrugs, "They are capable of a great many things and they will give their lives to defend you all if they must. Cowards they are not, nor fools, but they will follow your commands without hesitation and will also offer suggestions if asked. They are soldiers, not simple fodder, but if you have no choice to sacrifice them, I will understand." I've just given you the option to do what you will with them, cousin. How you use them will allow me to understand you a little more.

[Thanos]

"They sound well trained in multiple fields. If Arrotel arrives and moves out with us, I will take them under my command as having a few more men will not be a hinderance. However, if he does not go with us then it might be best if Landon, Grey, and myself move out quickly just the three of is. It will be harder to slow we three, while having some extra force around will allow us to push through should something cross our path as four."

That should indicate that I find her offer well suited to allow me to better carry out her request, but that I would not normally bring troops with me.

Heldrik, having his blade, lets his left hand rest on the hilt glad to have with him the only connection that he still has to his father.

[Pygysys]

Perhaps I should clarify something, as I get the feeling that they don't realise how small my 'squad' actually is. "The choice is yours, though if they do move out with you, they would only double your number. I can only spare you three men, no more. I will brief them shortly, once Roland has advised me of our own plans. If they depart with you, they will be ready when you are." Kat nods to Heldrik and then turns away, moving back across the room towards Roland. Time to start ordering me around, cousin. She flashes Roland a grin as she comes towards him. I'm not going to let you forget what passed between us three at the picnic, Roland. My word is good.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon returns in short order looking as if things are as it should be. He looks around to see who all are still here and finds a seat wine glass in hand.

[Pygysys]

After a quick and quiet word to Roland, Kat excuses herself once more and moves towards Landon. "Mind if I join you for a moment? We really haven't had time to get acquainted and I fear we're getting off on the wrong foot."

[TreyKincaide]

"Why, not at all my dear." Landon says as he gestuers to a nearby chair and grins. "Preparations for our departure are under way to my satisfaction, and I would treasure the company while I wait to meet with Heldrik, Agraynal, and hopefully Arrotel."

This should prove to be amusing. Not quite an entirely unexpected encounter. I wonder what she really wants.

[Pygysys]

Kat takes advantage of the nearby chair and sits down, quietly studying Landon as she does so. I wonder if it's him I dislike or the words he uses, sweet but leaving an aftertaste. Hush Kat, you've already lost one cousin today, let's not distance another. "Tis good to know you have everything well in hand, it will ensure a swift departure when the time arrives. If my suggestion of an escort or my intention to place them at Heldrik's disposal has caused offense or made me seem forthright, I trust that it does so for the right reasons."

He's probably going to think how can anyone cause offense for the right reasons? Better explain what you mean before you really insult him.

"The fact that the King has placed you in charge of your group speaks volumes about your capabilities, and I can accept that without questioning you. Today's events have caused me grave concern for all my cousins and siblings too. I suppose I'm being overprotective of one I have never met and therefore unwittingly insult his companions to be in wanting to look out for him. I also suspect that in finding acceptance, Heldrik and I are somewhat akin to one another. I sense that he would be more attuned to ordering soldiers with the same ease that you speak with a gilded tongue. So I have extended my men to him to provide some level of comfort in finding acceptance here in Amber and with our newly met cousins. Certainly it is perhaps not my place, but if I can extend a courtesy to form a friendship with a kindred spirit, I will try."

She smiles then, "Which leaves you, far from a kindred spirit indeed and I admit, one who I find rubs against the grain from which I am cut."

[TreyKincaide]

"Perhaps, good woman or perhaps it is a matter primarily of perception and we are not as different as it appears." Landon shrugs good naturedly. "It is evident that poetry doesn't only come from my tongue, but yours as well. I would probably be right in assuming that it can also be as sharp as your sword should you wish it." Landon laughs, "Most assuredly I took neither offense at your offer nor your desire to see your men in good hands. I must admit that the responsibility of my current situation presses heavily. I have spent little time in Amber and come unprepared into the most direst of circumstances seeing conspiracy in even the most innocuous of gestures. I believe I was chosen, as likely as not, due to my familiarity with Random." Landon stops and grins apparently remembering something humorous. He snaps to, "Forgive me. Memories of better days. Random was the bad influence that Flora didn't approve of in my youth, you see. He got me in all sorts of trouble."

[Pygysys]

Kat smiles and appears pleased that she caused no offense, even if it is just Landon's vocal assurance of such. "I do not know the King all that well, only what I have been told and that was not much. It is the same of all my aunts and uncles, I know naught but what I was told and all there was to tell was a sentence or two. From the short time I have spent amongst the King's presence, I can easily believe what I have been told. He seems a good man, perhaps better for the experience of his youth."

Kat's next words do not have the edge of humor though, "I do not believe he would have chosen you just through familiarity alone. He is our uncle, true, but he is also the King of Amber. There are obvious advantages in having you lead one team, yes, but if you were not able to do so, he would have chosen someone else rather than risk or endanger yourself and the others."

[TreyKincaide]

"Flora used to call him a rake, a cad, and much worse when wasn't in the room and sometimes even when he was. She objected as much as anything to the late night parties with his 'disreputable' friends. She never voiced her opinion when he showed me how to play the piano, though." Landon answers the first before addressing the second, "I'm sure you're right even if those reasons are opaque as this time."

[Pygysys]

"I don't think they are and I don't believe you do either. I don't think you want to voice them aloud as much as hear what someone else might think and thus give you insight into the way they think." Kat shrugs, "Or maybe you're not confident of your own abilities. I think you know how to protect yourself and your own interests, but you're not so certain when it comes to having to worry about the welfare of others. It's one thing being responsible for your own actions but having to take responsibility for others? It is a difficult thing to lead."

[TreyKincaide]

"I believe you summed up the matter fairly succintly. However, you forgot to mention that difficulty increases when you neither know nor can afford to trust those with you to speak plainly. Regardless of my reservations, I am a son of Amber and will act accordingly."

Clever. Your stated observations gave me as much insight as I needed. You're dangerous.

[Pygysys]

"Perhaps that's why you need to trust them, if not wholly then at least in some measure. We have been sheltered and protected by our parents for far too long. I feel that if we don't extend some trust to one another, we will only succeed in repeating the cycle." Kat stands and inclines her head respectfully to Landon, "I'm sure you'll do well. Good night Landon, I should return to Roland and find out what he needs me to do."

[TreyKincaide]

"Perhaps." Landon says ponderingly.

Naivete is wasted on me cousin.

"So much for speaking on this unpleasant matter. Come now. I hardly know anything about you and I'm dying with suspense. I wouldn't want to be considered borish by focusing the conversation on me. Another time perhaps?"

[Pygysys]

"What would you care to know?" Kat pauses where she stands, "I was born in Shadow, raised in Shadow and thought I would die in Shadow. As I told Roland and Raevyn, I was raised as nobility but I do not consider myself the spoiled princess. About a year ago now by Amber standards, my Lordship the General, happened upon me and I entered into his service." She smiles as if remembering the day itself. "I think we were both surprised to discover my lineage. My father is a great man, I hope I shall do him proud."

[LynMars]

After Gray leaves, Raevyn quietly sketches, her attention focused there, though she tries to keep a feel on the conversations going on around her. As she finishes the one she's working on, she stretches and looks around, sighing. She glances over at Joshua. "Maybe once we wrangle Kat and Roland from their conversations, we can finally have ours, without it getting pushed back again," she says quietly. "They may be interested in hearing about it now, as well. I hate being pushy; sorry if I seem that way, I really don't mean to be."

'Wonder how quickly we're expected to get moving. But what about some sort of funeral ceremony for Joss? If we're all out in Shadow...I understand the urgency, but...' Rae frowns a litle, then shakes herself from her thoughts. 'I certainly can't think of such things at the moment myself.'

[Wired*Nun]

[I am supposing there that Julian says that they could be based off of chaos or the brand fountain power, ie something else, but I will leave that line of questioning at the possibility existing, and leave the technical parts for another time]

As Kat approaches Heldrik smiles at Julian as another thank you and then turns on his heel to face Kat.
"Ah, you read my mind. Have they been on a very fast move through shadow? [a hellride] I think that is the fastest way to track down our prey if a proper image can be found or something we can focus on."
[First, I can't understand what that first part means at all. Please be more clear. Second, make sure you review the house rules on hellrides and shadowwalking to intangibles. Of course, Heldrik may not know these things, just making sure the player does.]

[TreyKincaide]

"You certainly have large shoes to fill, but I'm sure that you'll conduct yourself in the highest of standards and bring honor to your line. But honestly, I meant something more along the lines of what matters of interest bring enjoyment to a beautiful lady such as yourself?"

Interesting how she dances around the issue of parentage a bit. She implies that the General is her father, but doesn't come out and say it. Curious.

[Thanos]

Heldrik having left Julian's side notices the lay of the room with everybody in it. Deciding he needs a little bit more of a solid meal he heads to the table and gets some bread and meat, making a sloppy sandwich. From there he heads off to a chair next to a wall with a goblet of water and proceeds to eat the meal quickly while looking about the room at some length.

[Heldrik is summoning the sign of the pattern, which is why he makes a sloppy sandwich, and is going to take a look around the room with it and at people. He mostly just notes who has what, where, and then settles on Raevyn who I think is playing with a power he knows not about.]

[LynMars]

Raevyn has been drawing while she waits for Roland, Kat, and Josh to finish any business they have with any of the others; she doesn't seem to have much to say at the moment. Right now it looks like she's thinking of begining another Sketch. If Heldrik looks at her, she'll eventually notice and smile at him, quite friendly.

[Wired*Nun]

She glances over at Joshua. "Maybe once we wrangle Kat and Roland from their conversations, we can finally have ours, without it getting pushed back again," she says quietly. "They may be interested in hearing about it now, as well. I hate being pushy; sorry if I seem that way, I really don't mean to be."
Joshua replies quietly, "Umm, I'd like that. I'm not sure if we have nothing to talk about, or too much. Events are moving too fast. Maybe after the meeting we can take a walk or sit on the balcony or something?"

"I take it that you would like to do up some Trumps for the assignments. I can help you with that, if you like. We can work together, I imagine, as we had the same teacher. I can show you a way of doing multiples of the same Trump in less time than doing them individually. I came up with it myself, in case something like this would happen. How about we meet for that tomorrow morning? Whoever gets up first, knock on the other's door. I don't like to start things like that at night unless I gotta do an all-nighter."

[Wired*Nun]

[Heldrik is summoning the sign of the pattern, which is why he makes a sloppy sandwich, and is going to take a look around the room with it and at people. He mostly just notes who has what, where, and then settles on Raevyn who I think is playing with a power he knows not about.]
Heldrik watches Raevyn work, seeing power - or forms of power - he hasn't ever seen. Obviously some form of Pattern is incorporated, but it's different.

As he looks around the room, he notices Fiona keeping an eye on him with her own Lens. She also seems poised to do...something. Maybe it's not the best idea to be employing Pattern right here and now, it may seem suspicious...

[Wired*Nun]

Random stands and says, "If there are no more questions of me, I'll adjourn this meeting. I, and others I imagine, will be up in the ops center in the Great Hall, if we are needed. That will be our central control, and the staff will reconfigure things for that purpose, I don't imagine we'll be having any State functions for a bit. Ah, that reminds me, Llewella, make sure we stay on track with Rinaldo's visit, I don't want him having any excuse to call it off. I want him here and under our scrutiny, to see if there is anything to Dunstan's claims. Thanks everyone, and get on it." He and Vialle depart.

The elders head for the ops center or other individual parts unknown.

[LynMars]

Raevyn nods in agreement to Josh's ideas. "Sure; I think a walk later would be good, maybe in the gardens. Learning how to do multiples of one Trump would help a lot, otherwise we'll be painting forever," she grins again. "Tomorrow morning sounds like a good idea, the others will likely want to take time to prepare for our assignments, anyway, so we should have plenty of time. And maybe I can practice a bit with that trick you showed me before, when we headed out to your mother's." She cracks her knuckles and starts putting away her supplies.

'Enough for now, especially if we're going to work on them all day tomorrow. It'll be nice to compare notes with someone. Roland seems to have a basic understanding, I wonder if he'd like to watch and help out a little tomorrow, or will he and Kat be too busy? Meeting adjourned...I wonder if Dad's okay, or if Josh and I can go have our chat now...Even if the information Josh found seems old or irrelevant since...earlier...it may still shed some small light on all this insanity.'

[Thanos]

When Heldrik notices the Princess keeping tabs on him he will give her a nod, to say that he understands her hesitation, but that isn’t going to stop him from doing what he needs to. However, he does drop the Sign once he knows what he needs to know and grins back at Raevyn and after disposing of his plate and refilling his goblet he will approach her.

“You are working with those cards. Could you explain the basic principles behind their use as I have not seen this kind of magic before. I imagine that it works something like a psychic phone call? I am wondering if you can follow a call before it is accepted?”

[Shutter]

Eating some food and sipping some water Roland's mind plays over what has already transpired, and what is yet to come...He recalls an overheard comment, from a dinner the night before. Oh hell...either she's told everyone who needs to know, or she's witholding information, or they never even met...any way you look at it, if I mention anything, I'm nearly accusing my aunt, a very old, very powerful, very respected Princess of Amber of holding out on us in a time of crisis, of playing the same games that Landon plays...Where the hell does that leave me? Not looked upon too well I'd guess.

Roland looks about the room for a moment, eyes bouncing between Llewella and Landon, not too obvious, but not subtle enough.

Shit.

[LynMars]

Raevyn looks up as Heldrik approaches, her thoughts interupted. "Oh! Um, well...They're really a form of psychic connection, powered by the Pattern--though Siodmak's aren't quite right; I need to examine them more closely. For example, having talked with you, I can concentrate on the psychic impression I have of you, and make a Trump, allowing me a connection to your psyche where we can communicate or travel to one another. They can be a bit time consuming to make, but once finished, should last...maybe forever. You can block the connection if you wish, or places in Shadow can block Trump by their very nature. Dunstan somehow blocked Trump to and from the Keep; he let me in, and allowed us to leave, I'm sure. As for tracing a call back...I can tell who's calling me before I fully accept the contact, and I know there are ways to observe and scry using them, but I don't know how to do that quite yet." The pleasant, friendly smile never seems to leave her face, though she's still somewhat troubled by the events earlier, on close examination.

[chalice]

Gray slips back into Hall quietly, with a small smile for anyone who notices her arrival. She wanders around for a while, seemingly irresolute - then she seems to decide something and turns her steps squarely towards Kat.

"I would like to speak with you. In some privacy, if you allow?" she motions to a quieter corner.

[assuming Kat goes along with this - Kat, stop this at any point you want to, I'm just posting long 'cos I have to sign off again soon. Not trying to steamroller you :) ]


Gray looks up at her slightly taller cousin gravely. "There are things that should be said to you. It would come better from people who care about you, people you think of as friends, but they are the last ones who will. Please hear me out, and take a moment to think before you reject what I have to say.

"You don't like me much," she shrugs, "and that's fine. I don't have any energy to spend on trying to be liked. And you've just been playing 'let's you and him fight' with my team members, which I can't say I appreciate. So I have nothing much to lose by this."

Her clear gaze as she meets Kat's eyes is sympathetic - empathetic even - but the tone of her usually gentle voice is uncompromising.

"Let me guess. Something bad happened. Something precious was taken from you. Maybe there were people you cared for, thought you should be able to protect - and you couldn't. Thinking about it - any of it - is unbearable. So now, you're thinking with your mouth, and your gut, and your predjudices. Focussing out. Trying to control everything around you, protect the new friends you've chosen, so that bad things don't happen again, to make up for the things you couldn't stop. Anything rather than face up to it. Anything rather than think.

"In the process, you've weakened my team - my pack. Just to make yourself feel better. Don't you think you should stop, before your cowardice damages everyone around you? Take the time. Deal with it. Or, mark me, it will catch up with you - and the collateral damage could be quite spectacular.

"That's all. Now you can yell at me, or hit me, or whatever you feel you need to do. "

[Thanos]

"Thank you Raevyn for your explination, that helps me to know that there is a possible venue in tracking down the pair we have been assigned." says Heldrik in a friendly and thankful voice.

With a bow and a smile he moves off to the conference with Landon.

[TreyKincaide]

Landon exits.

[LynMars]

"Before you go, here's one that he made of himself. I am unlikely to ever use it," she says, holding out a Trump for him. "I think it will still work as normal, if it's not simply a Sketch. It may come in handy for you."

[chalice]

Gray leaves.

[Pygysys]

"You certainly have large shoes to fill, but I'm sure that you'll conduct yourself in the highest of standards and bring honor to your line. But honestly, I meant something more along the lines of what matters of interest bring enjoyment to a beautiful lady such as yourself?"
Kat chuckles and seems about to answer Landon when Agraynel approaches and asks for a quiet word. "Perhaps some other time?" she asks Landon before accompanying Gray into a corner.

Gray slips back into Hall quietly, with a small smile for anyone who notices her arrival. She wanders around for a while, seemingly irresolute - then she seems to decide something and turns her steps squarely towards Kat.

"I would like to speak with you. In some privacy, if you allow?" she motions to a quieter corner.

Gray looks up at her slightly taller cousin gravely. "There are things that should be said to you. It would come better from people who care about you, people you think of as friends, but they are the last ones who will. Please hear me out, and take a moment to think before you reject what I have to say.

"You don't like me much," she shrugs, "and that's fine. I don't have any energy to spend on trying to be liked. And you've just been playing 'let's you and him fight' with my team members, which I can't say I appreciate. So I have nothing much to lose by this."

Her clear gaze as she meets Kat's eyes is sympathetic - empathetic even - but the tone of her usually gentle voice is uncompromising.

"Let me guess. Something bad happened. Something precious was taken from you. Maybe there were people you cared for, thought you should be able to protect - and you couldn't. Thinking about it - any of it - is unbearable. So now, you're thinking with your mouth, and your gut, and your predjudices. Focussing out. Trying to control everything around you, protect the new friends you've chosen, so that bad things don't happen again, to make up for the things you couldn't stop. Anything rather than face up to it. Anything rather than think.

"In the process, you've weakened my team - my pack. Just to make yourself feel better. Don't you think you should stop, before your cowardice damages everyone around you? Take the time. Deal with it. Or, mark me, it will catch up with you - and the collateral damage could be quite spectacular.

"That's all. Now you can yell at me, or hit me, or whatever you feel you need to do. "
Agraynel gets to finish everything she says without one single interuption from Kat. She's stronger than I thought. Almost exact on the mark as well but not quite. Should I interject and spare us both? No, let it play out and then explain.

"Three things cousin. First, I've already explained to Landon my reasoning behind assigning my men as I have and he has assured me I have caused no offense. If you have any true intent to know those reasons, then ask him for the explanation. Second, I neither like you, nor dislike you, I simply don't know you, as you don't me." Up until now Kat has spoken softly in a neutral tone, now the tone changes and hardens, "Third, do not call me a coward again, regardless of misinformation and lack of understanding of a situation you know nothing about. I extend a courtesy to you cousin and will ignore it this once but not again. Good night."

Kat turns and strides away from Gray, making her way directly towards Roland. She doesn't appear upset or annoyed, in fact, she's smiling as she walks away from one cousin to approach another.

[Thanos]

[edit, The trump is of Siodmak and not of Raevyn]



Heldrik is surprised that Raevyn would offer him a card of Siodmak, she can see it in his eyes. After but a moments hesitation he accepts it and places it in a pouch on his belt.
“Again, thank you kind lady for your generosity.”

Before he can embarrass himself further Heldrik does a sharp about face and follows out after Landon and Grey.

[Wired*Nun]

"Before you go, here's one that he made of himself. I am unlikely to ever use it," she says, holding out a Trump for him. "I think it will still work as normal, if it's not simply a Sketch. It may come in handy for you."
[Does this refer to Heldrik? If so, Heldrik now has Siodmak's trump of himself]

[Wired*Nun]

Heldrik is surprised that Raevyn would offer him a card of herself, she can see it in his eyes. After but a moments hesitation he accepts it and places it in a pouch on his belt.
“Again, thank you kind lady for your generosity.”

Before he can embarrass himself further Heldrik does a sharp about face and follows out after Landon and Grey.
[I think she is offering him a trump of Siodmak?]

[Wired*Nun]

OK, to your scattered bodies go. Thread is closing.