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Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch, Lladd & Onyx2, Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch. Continued, Meeting, Meeting - Part II, Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude, Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude 2, Onyx - Interlude, Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker, Onyx - Morning in Texorami,
Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami, Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos, The Courts of Chaos, The Queen of Chaos, The Queen of Chaos - Trump Call


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Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch

           Date: Mon, 24 May 2004 13:20:51 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Oh." Onyx pauses briefly, "You had said, "the Courts", can you tell me about that?"
           "Of course." Vialle answers. She pauses for a second and turns her head toward the end of the porch.
           "Ah, Lladdwyr." Vialle calls out. "Have you finished your business matters?" she asks.

           Date: Mon, 24 May 2004 15:26:45 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Lladd steps around the corner of the house and wanders nearer. "For the moment," he answers her, smiling at both of them.
Onyx smiles to Lladd as a greeting as he approaches. Then waits to see if Vialle will continue.
           When Lladd has reached the porch Vialle continues, "The Courts of Chaos. The place is so named because the environment is in a near constant state of flux. The sky is blue one minute, red the next, things like that."
           She is thoughtful for a minute then goes on. "It is said that King Oberon, he would be your grandfather, came from the Courts with his father, Dworkin."
           She stops long enough to take a drink of her lemonade. "There are many stories surrounding their circumstances, I have no idea which is the real reason or even a close representation. But I *do* know there has always been a bit of tension between Amber and the Courts." she finishes.

           Date: Tue, 25 May 2004 08:17:13 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx is thoughtful as she asks, "Why has there been tension? Anything specific or just because Oberon & Dworkin left?"
           Vialle shakes her head. "I can't give a definitive answer on that. It goes back a very long way, though."
           Vialle lifts her head toward Lladd. "Do you have any questions I might answer? I've been helping your sister while you were busy."

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Tue, 25 May 2004 10:34:07 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
           "No, I don't think so," he replies, leaning against the porch railing. "I was just wondering if you needed anything, and if Onyx was through with her trump conversation. I think I'll be heading out later today."

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Tue, 25 May 2004 15:09:43 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
"Where to?" Onyx asks casually.
           "Not really sure at the moment," he answers, turning his head to let the faint breeze blow some loose strands of hair out of his face. "Probably back towards Amber eventually. Did you have a good chat with Brand?"

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Wed, 26 May 2004 10:59:21 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx leans back in her chair, "Yes I did. Back to Amber, hm? Even though it's been evacuated? Do we know how long that will last?"
           "No idea. As long as it takes until the threat is gone, I suppose. I have business to attend to that may take me back there, though." He shrugs. "But I won't be leaving for a few hours."

           Date: Fri, 28 May 2004 13:38:26 - Sat, 29 May 2004 05:44:46 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Vialle nods as the two of you talk, listening carefully. "Well, be careful." she begins. "There�s no telling what�s going on." she says.
Incredulous, Onyx asks "What kind of business could you have in an evacuated city?"
           Vialle lays a quieting hand on Onyx�s arm but says nothing.

           Date: Tue, 01 Jun 2004 20:56:22 -0500
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           From: Lladd
           "The confidential kind," Lladdwyr answers Onyx curtly, but then shakes his head. "Sorry. I don't know for sure if I'll be going there, but it's a possibility. You asked."

           Date: Wed, 2 Jun 2004 07:42:13 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx just nods.
           Vialle speaks up before anything else is said, "Anyone hungry?"
           "Lladd, would you like to eat before you go?" she asks.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Wed, 02 Jun 2004 12:52:01 - 18:15:16 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
           "That would be great," he answers quickly, looking relieved. "Invasions and evacuations can work up an appetite."
"Yeah, I'm starved," Onyx adds, back to her 'ol self again.
           Shamus comes around the corner of the house at that moment. He says, "Couldn't help overhear. We have a pig in the pit out back if you'd like ta come join us."
           Vialle turns her head toward Jenna for a second or two then back toward Shamus. "Jenna and I are in, Mr. Shamus." she says with a smile.
           "I'll be back presently," Lladd answers. "Onyx, could I talk to you a minute before we eat?"

           Date: Thu, 3 Jun 2004 08:46:09 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Sounds delicious" Onyx adds. To Lladd, "Sure".
           Shamus smiles big and wide. "Great! Come on around back when yer ready, just follow the smell of bar-b-que."
           Jenna and Vialle both head around back with Shamus.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Thu, 03 Jun 2004 10:59:25 - 11:23:36 -0500 (CDT
           From: Lladd
           Lladdwyr watches them disappear with an abstracted expression, but his attention sharpens as he looks back over to Onyx. "Don't trust Brand," he begins bluntly. "I gather you have a different understanding about him from your mother. Apparently Vialle does, too. But that was before he fell in the Abyss, and other things I don't know much about. Anyway, tread cautiously with him. With everyone in the Family, for that matter." He pulls up a sleeve to reveal some cream-colored beads on a bracelet, of the same size as a long beaded necklace he wears. The beads on the necklace, however, are swirled.
"Thanks for the advice, but I've always been able to take care of myself in the past," Onyx responds matter-of-factly. As he reveals the bracelet, Onyx looks at it, "That's a nice bracelet," she says approvingly, then looks back up into Lladd eyes waiting for him to explain or to continue.
           He unclasps the bracelet, pulling it off while answering absently, "Thank you." He looks back up then, holding the beads cupped in his hand. "It's just a friendly warning. I've no doubt you're very self-sufficient, but the Family is unlike the shadow folk you've encountered in the past." He shrugs. "But as for the bracelet... I'd like to stay in touch with you after I leave. One of these beads may allow us to communicate, if that is something you would allow."

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Thu, 03 Jun 2004 12:13:45 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx nods, then grins, "There is very little I wouldn't allow." More seriously, "How do they work?"
           Lladd seems torn between an answering grin, or a worried frown at her first remark. "That's my point, actually. But besides that, we both need to donate some blood." He slides two beads off of the bracelet and hands them to Onyx, and reclasps it around his wrist with practiced ease. Then he produces a tiny knife.
           Kneeling on the wooden floor, he pulls his other sleeve up, and now Onyx can see the inside of his lower left arm is scored by thin white scars - too many to count quickly. Without a pause, he slices his left arm, and blood wells out of the shallow cut. He looks up at Onyx. "The beads, please."

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Thu, 03 Jun 2004 13:12:07 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
At the mention of needing blood, Onyx seems skeptical and suspicious, but then she seems to understand that the blood is needed to make the connection with the beads, and hands him back the beads waiting her turn.
           He accepts the beads, touching them both to the cut on his arm. "Would you like to cut yourself, or should I?" he inquires then, his blood soaking into the beads.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Thu, 03 Jun 2004 13:24:28 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
"I'll cut myself." she pauses before asking, "The blood just activates the beads for a connection, correct, Nothing else?"
           He frowns a little, puzzled but thoughtful. "Yes, the blood mingled in the bead activates the connection. As for anything else... I can't guarantee," he admits. "I've never done this with someone who is still alive."

           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Fri, 04 Jun 2004 08:59:11 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
"Oh ha, ha," Onyx says sarcastically, but with a grin.
           Lladd shrugs and hands over the knife, holding ready the blood-stained beads.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Fri, 04 Jun 2004 09:33:48 -0500 (CDT) - Mon, 7 Jun 2004 19:03:59 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Lladd & GM
Onyx reaches into her pocket and pulls out a small beige handkerchief, then takes the knife and makes a small shallow cut on her left palm. She carefully wipes the blade clean with the kerchief before handing it back in exchange for the beads. Once she has the beads, she holds them in her cut palm and squeezes her fist around them for a few seconds, then opens her hand showing, quite frankly, a nice bloody mess. She looks up to Lladd, "OK, now what?"
           Onyx can feel the beads growing warmer and they give off a sort of resonance; and when her blood has mingled with Lladd�s, the resonance becomes an actual tune. But then Lladdwyr plucks them out of her palm, somehow managing to avoid getting her blood on his fingers, and the sensations fade to the back of her mind, almost imperceptible� Lladd takes first one, then the other, he touches the beads to the stone pendant, closing his eyes for a few seconds...

           Date: Mon, 07 Jun 2004 21:57:35 -0500
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           From: Lladd
           Then he opens his eyes and rises smoothly to his feet, smiling a little. "Here." He holds one out to Onyx. "Give it about an hour, for the reaction to finish." Both beads have changed in that little amount of time, becoming harder with a shiny amber color with crimson marbling.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Tue, 08 Jun 2004 09:08:32 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx nods as she takes the bead.
           He pulls off his beaded necklace, beginning to undo the knot so he can string the newest addition with the rest of them. There appear to be well over fifty already strung, all with the same crimson-swirled amber color scheme. "Good. We'll be able to test their effectiveness in a bit. Shall we join the others then?" he inquires.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Tue, 08 Jun 2004 12:03:02 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
"Yes, I'm starving," Onyx answers with a smile.
           He gestures for her to lead the way, finishing up his necklace as they go.

           Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2004 12:27:58 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
She heads in the direction she had seen Shamus go and she carefully pockets her bead, planning on stringing it later.
           Before you are even off of the porch, the sweet smell of roasting meat leads you in the right direction.
           Around back there are several people gathered, Shamus, Jenna and of course Vialle. There are about seven more people, but one who has his back to you is familiar, to both of you.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Date: Tue, 08 Jun 2004 14:38:54 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
           Lladdwyr approaches the gathering of people, scanning them all watchfully and fastening on the familiar one. His steps slow a bit, and he shifts his course to a more circular one, hoping to approach the person more from the side and get a better look at him.

           Date: Tue, 8 Jun 2004 13:00:49 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
Once they stepped off the porch Onyx had fallen in step next to Lladd; as his course and step changes Onyx stays next to him, also attempting to get a better look at the familiar person.
           As soon as you are able to make out the profile, you both recognize Random.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Date: Tue, 08 Jun 2004 15:34:58 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
           Lladd nods to Onyx again, as though in parting, then heads over to Random. "Majesty," he greets him quietly.

           Date: Wed, 9 Jun 2004 10:40:09 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
Onyx, gets the hint and ignores it. She nods to Random in greeting, "Random. Any news?"
           Vialle smiles in your direction as you approach. Random turns and nods to both of you.
           "I see you made it safely. I trust you were treated hospitably." he smiles. Then more directly to Onyx, "What type of news were you looking for?" he asks with an eyebrow quirked.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Date: Wed, 09 Jun 2004 13:53:49 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx looks at him as if to say 'Hello?! What do ya think?', but instead she says "About Amber, the evacuation, martial law being declared?"
           Lladdwyr's eyes brighten and his mouth twitches, but he manages to keep his amusement contained, waiting for Random's reply.

           Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2004 09:11:52 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Random gives a large grin, "Oh!" he says dramatically. "You meant �News� not just news." he nods his head knowingly.
           "Well, the evacuation is complete and everyone is safe for now. That�s all I care to discuss at the moment." he finishes with an incline of his head and makes his way to the pitcher of water sitting on a nearby table.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2004 11:54:11 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
           For his part, Lladd let's him leave it at that, heading over to look at the edibles and see if there are any viable options. He also says hello to Vialle.

           Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2004 10:25:27 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
Onyx watches Random walk off, then she heads in the direction of the food as her stomach gives off a nice rumble.
           There is a nice variety of food laid out on the table. The majority is meat, chicken and pork, but there are also some nice salads: Potato salad, coleslaw, fruit salad, fresh baked bread, cheese, baked beans, as well as fresh greens to build your own garden salad.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2004 13:20:10 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx grabs a plate and loads it up with a little of everything, then begins to find a place to sit.
           Lladdwyr loads his plate up with things that aren't meat-related, then finds a place off at the edge of the crowd at the end of a table.

           Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2004 11:27:21 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           There is a large picnic table standing empty near the rear of the house. Everyone else is standing with their plates in one hand and some have drinks in the other. The group is centralized around the food tables, a good ten to twelve yards away from the picnic table.

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2004 13:47:02 - 18:34:55 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
           The empty table is where Lladdwyr heads, where he sits and starts making serious inroads on his food, eating quickly and with a preoccupied air.
Onyx also sits at the picnic table and starts eating, savoring almost every bite.
           After cleaning off his plate, Lladd comes out of his thoughts enough to actually look over and acknowledge Onyx' presence. "Oh, yes. My trump of Brand. May I have it back, please?"

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Date: Thu, 10 Jun 2004 20:12:34 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
"Of course," Onyx takes the trump out of her back pocket and hands it over.
           "Thanks." He stands. "I'll see you in a while, probably."

           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the ranch
           Date: Fri, 11 Jun 2004 08:36:53 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
"OK," she replies.
           He grins at her, then heads off away, circling wide around the group and heading back to the front of the house.

           Date: Thu, 17 Jun 2004 07:58:47 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
After finishing eating, Onyx grabs a drink and smiles pleasantly to anyone who looks her way as she eventually approaches Vialle.
           You notice Jenna leans in to whisper to Vialle as you approach.
           Vialle turns her head toward you, smiling. "Feel better Onyx?" she asks.

           Date: Thu, 17 Jun 2004 10:13:12 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Yes. I didn't realize how hungry I was; so much has been happening. Do you know how long we'll be staying here? I'd like to get back to Amber," she asks.
           Vialle nods knowingly. "That is a question for Random, I'm afraid." she says apologetically.
           "Are you bored with Texorami already?" she asks.

           Date: Thu, 17 Jun 2004 12:13:51 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"I mean no disrespect. There seems to be much here. In fact, I plan to take a walk later to take in the landscape. But I've only arrived last night into this family and I had no way of knowing how much there was to learn about who I am and where I came from. Amber seems to be the place where I can be taught."
           Vialle nods. "And indeed it would be." she comments. "If there were anybody there, that is."
           "Onyx," she begins to say something but stops herself.
           She turns her head away for a moment, she turns her head back in your direction and places a hand on your arm, her voice lowered. "Onyx, I would be happy to help you learn all you wish to know, you need only ask." she all but whispers.
           You detect a hint of something in her voice. Desperation maybe.

           Date: Thu, 17 Jun 2004 14:10:24 - 16:27:31 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Thank you. Could you set aside some time to go over stuff with me?"
           Her face brightens immediately. "Oh of course!" she says excitedly.
           "Would you like a guide on your walk? We could go over some things then." she offers hopefully.
"Um..." Onyx pauses briefly as if that wasn't quite what she had in mind, but then quickly continues, "Yeah, that would be fine." She smiles even though she knows Vialle can't see it.
           "Good." she all but bounces with excitement. "Let me know when you're ready." she replies.

           Date: Fri, 18 Jun 2004 09:27:26 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx grins at her excitement, "OK, after lunch when the crowd disperses I think."
           Not long after your decision, the people begin to return to their various tasks. Shamus and Random have went off toward one of the out buildings. Jenna is helping one of the other women start cleaning up.
           Vialle turns her head in your direction and smiles.

           Date: Tue, 22 Jun 2004 11:33:40 - 12:00:30 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx seems surprised at the timing of people dispersing after her decision - uncanny. "Well then. Shall we?"
           Vialle nods. "Jenna, Onyx will take good care of me. You are relieved for a bit."
           Jenna nods and curtsies then heads into the house, finishing the clean up.
           Vialle turns back to you and offers her hand with a gentle smile on her lips.
Onyx takes her hand and leads her away from the house at a comfortable pace.
           After a few minutes, once you're a good distance from the house, Vialle sighs. It�s a sad and heavy sigh, but at the same time, there was a hint of relief to it.

           Date: Tue, 22 Jun 2004 12:36:29 - 21:34:15 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx looks to Vialle, "What's on your mind?"
           "Please forgive me." she says apologetically. "I'm getting a Trump call." she steps to the right a pace and accepts the call.
Onyx nods and gives her space.
           Vialle finishes and steps back towards you with her hand out. "That was your brother." she says with a small chuckle. "Seems he felt bad about leaving without saying goodbye." she smiles.
"Oh," Onyx says as she smiles, "no worries. Was that all he had to say?"
           "Mmm-hmm." Vialle replies. "That, and he said he would be in touch later." she adds.
           She turns her sightless eyes toward you. "So what would you like to know about first?" she asks.

           Date: Wed, 23 Jun 2004 08:47:07 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx thinks for a moment, "Well, speaking of Lladd, he told me not to trust anyone in the family... why? Aren't families supposed to be close? My mom and I don't agree on a lot, but we're still close."
           "That�s a tough one." Vialle says as she frowns slightly.
           "Hmm, I guess the best way to put it is this; everyone has an agenda. And in a normal family people set aside their personal agendas for the good of the family. This family is *not* normal, as you can well see." she explains.

           Date: Thu, 24 Jun 2004 08:10:14 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"OK, I guess that makes sense," after a short pause, "Aunt Fiona... She was able to tell I was family by seemingly just looking at me. I know there was more to it though. Do you know how she was able to tell I was Brand's daughter?"
           Vialle shakes her head, "I have no idea." she states. "That�s something you would have to bring up with her, but I wouldn't recommend it." she adds.

           Date: Thu, 24 Jun 2004 08:59:44 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Why not?"
           Vialle turns her head toward Onyx for a second then sighs. "Ok. Maybe I should run down the list of family members and go over some of their quirks." she is thoughtful for a minute.
           "First, though," she continues, "I should have an idea of where you stand right now."
           Vialle stops and turns to face you. "Onyx, will you allow me to see into your mind?" she asks.

           Date: Fri, 25 Jun 2004 10:06:57 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx looks at her, "Well, I was told not to trust anyone and the mind is very private & precious... but... given the circumstances..." (after a pause) "I will allow it."
           Vialle smiles gently. "Good. I promise I will be gentle." she replies.
           She takes both of your hands in hers and begins to concentrate.
           You don't feel anything for a long time, then somewhere in the back of your mind you feel a small tingling sensation, almost like a Trump but not exactly. The tingling continues for a few moments then stops. Vialle lets go, gasping then staggers back a few steps before catching her balance.
           "You," she breathes heavily, "You have a . . . a strong . . . mind." she gasps between breathes. Vialle then sits down on the ground. It�s almost as if her legs just fold up on her, dropping her to the ground.

           Date: Fri, 25 Jun 2004 11:19:08 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx looks concerned at her condition, "Are you OK? . . . what do you mean? What happened?"
           "I'm fine." she says a little more stable now.
           "You have a very strong mind. That means, I had to do more work than I was expecting to do. But that�s a good thing. That means with a bit of training, you will be able to defend your self." she explains.

           Date: Fri, 25 Jun 2004 15:05:58 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Defend myself... Against mental probing?" Onyx asks, very much intrigued.
           "Certainly." Vialle nods. "And I'm not terribly surprised, given who your father is. But it takes discipline."
           "Anyway, I saw what I need to know." she indicates the ground beside her. "Have a seat and we'll get started." she smiles.

           Date: Sat, 26 Jun 2004 13:08:30 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx sits down indian style and waits for Vialle to get settled, giving aid if needed.
           Once you are settled, Vialle begins.
           "Let�s start with the oldest," she says as she pulls out a Trump deck and shuffles through.
           "Benedict. The Champion of Amber. He will defend the city and everything and everyone in it with every fiber of his being. He is a fairly serious man, not very prone to laughter, but he is kind." she holds the card for you to see for a moment longer before returning it to the deck.
           Next she shuffles out a card of a dark haired man. "This is Eric. He was king for a bit. He is probably the hardest of the men to read. He is a politician, but when you catch him in a good mood, he has a good sense of humor." she puts Eric�s card away after you have a chance to see it.
           Vialle shuffles through the deck and pulls out the card of another dark haired man. This one looks very much like Eric. "Corwin." she says. "No one has seen or heard from Corwin since shortly after the Pattern - Fall War. He used to be very poetic and artful. Near the end of the war, he created his own Pattern and subsequently, his own reality. It�s suspected that�s where he has been." she slides the card back in the deck after a minute.
           This time she pulls out the card of a beautiful woman with long jet black hair. "This is your aunt Dierdre." she says. "Dierdre, Corwin and Eric are full blooded brothers and sister. I didn't get to know her very well, but I can tell you she was just as effective, if not better, with a weapon as some of her brothers." she allows you to study the card for a moment, then puts it away.
           Next is one you recognize. "Fiona." she says. "I'm not sure I can shed any light on her for you or not." Vialle pauses for a few beats then continues, "She is a very unique woman. Sometimes she can be very sweet and thoughtful, but other times she can be downright hateful. But most of the time, she keeps to herself. That is to say, she is thinking all the time." Vialle looks thoughtful as she slips the card back into the deck.
           There is no mistaking the resemblance between Fiona and this next one. "Bleys." Vialle says. "He is the one you encountered with Penelope when you were sent to find Random." A small smile crosses her face. "Bleys is mischief incarnate, and a charmer to boot. I hope he recovers." she stares at the card a moment with you before putting it back in the deck.
           Your father is next. When seeing his card with the previous two, it�s clear they are full siblings and Vialle confirms the fact. "This, of course, is your father. I've told you what I can about him."

           Date: Fri, 2 Jul 2004 09:46:50 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx nods, and waits to see if Vialle is going to continue.
           Vialle is about to say something but stops suddenly. She looks absolutely shocked. As her expression sinks in, you feel something pulsing, kind of a dull throbbing, coming from your pocket. At the same time, you sense somewhere deep inside that something very important has just happened.

           Date: Fri, 2 Jul 2004 21:19:07 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx takes a trump card out of her pocket and looks at it. Thinking to herself, "What the...? What is pulsing?"
           It�s not the card. The feeling is coming from something else.
           Vialle reaches for your hand. "Did you feel that?" she asks almost in a whisper.

Lladd & Onyx 2

           Date: Wed, 7 Jul 2004 14:56:22 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Lladd & Onyx
Onyx puts the card back and takes out Lladd's bead.
           ~Onyx?~ Lladd inquires curiously. ~Is there something amiss?~

           Subject: Re: Lladd & Onyx
           Date: Thu, 08 Jul 2004 09:12:24 - 13:25:02 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
"Nothing here that I know of except a feeling Vialle & I got. Why? and is your bead supposed to pulse?"
           ~A feeling. As for the pulsing... it's not unheard of,~ he answers, puzzlement and unease shading his sending.
"Where are you, what's going on?" Onyx asks.
           ~Going on how? With the fabric of the universe? Don't know. With me? Trying to find out,~ he answers. ~Did you activate the bead?~
"No, it was pulsing in my pocket so I took it out and there you were, so to speak."
           Silence for a bit. Then, ~Unusual. But it worked, at least. Simply release the bead to break the contact. Put it down or in your pocket, perhaps.~

           Date: Fri, 09 Jul 2004 18:45:58 - Wed, 14 Jul 2004 12:44:44 -0500 (CDT)
           Subject: Re: Lladd & Onyx
           From: Lladd
"So... you weren't contacting me?"
           ~No,~ he admits, reluctantly.
"Hm, ok. Well, I'll chat with ya later."
           ~Yes. Take care.~ Lladd then turns his attention away from the contact.

Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch. Continued

           Date: Wed, 21 Jul 2004 14:02:45 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
           Vialle was waiting patiently while you held the bead and concentrated. "Everything alright?" she asks.

           Date: Thu, 29 Jul 2004 10:51:32 -0700 (PDT)
           From: GM
           Subject: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Yeah... well, something was pulsing in my pocket - I thought it was the bead, but Lladd wasn't trying to communicate, so I don't know what caused it."
           Vialle gives a small frown. "Maybe it was a reaction to that disturbance a few minutes ago." she offers.
           After a few moments she continues, "Should we pick up where we left off, then?"

           Date: Fri, 30 Jul 2004 20:11:38 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"Sure, unless you know what caused the disturbance," Onyx says.
           Vialle shakes her head. "I *do* know it involved the Pattern, but other than that . . ." she trails off.

           Date: Thu, 9 Dec 2004 19:48:41 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx nods and waits, watching Vialle. Then after a little bit, asks, "How do you know that it involved the Pattern?" Onyx asks.
           Vialle turns her head away briefly. "I have attuned to it." she replies reluctantly.

           Date: Sat, 11 Dec 2004 15:01:15 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
"What do you mean, you're 'attuned to it'?"
           She shakes her head briefly. "I haven't walked it." she gives an apologetic smile. "I was allowed to attune to it's energy." a short pause then, "It's difficult to explain clearly and it's also not widely known, if you know what I mean." Vialle inclines her head toward you a bit and lowers her voice conspiratorially.

           Date: Sun, 12 Dec 2004 15:34:17 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx thinks for a bit on what she said, then answers, "I think I know what you mean. I can see what I think is the pattern and it helps me find things or do things, but I've never seen it for myself. Walking it? I don't know much, if anything, about that."
           Vialle nods. "We can change that if you would like. Or I could help you with the attunement if you prefer. But I suspect you have an inborn affinity for the Pattern because of your father."
           She pauses for a moment, then, "We should be getting back. They're going to start worrying soon." with that, she stands up and brushes off the dust.

           Date: Sun, 12 Dec 2004 22:32:09 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx nods, "ok". Then she gets up and joins Vialle.
           You make your way back to the house without conversation. You are about 200 yards from the house when Vialle announces, "We have company. Come on." she grabs your hand and all but runs toward the house.

           Date: Mon, 13 Dec 2004 19:34:02 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meanwhile, Back at the Ranch
Onyx easily keeps up with Vialle and while they run she asks, "Who?"
           "Martin." she says between breaths. "And Amethyst, I believe."

Meeting

           Date: Tue, 14 Dec 2004 06:25:14 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Meeting
           Martin moves to the stairs.
           Vialle makes her way quickly up the stairs and embraces Martin.
           "It's been a terribly long time Martin." Vialle states.
           "It has." Martin agrees. "Come sit with us." Martin gestures to the chairs around the table.
           "Does your father know you are here?" Vialle asks as she lets Martin guide her to a seat.
           "Yes he does." Martin replies. He is slightly distracted by the woman who arrived with Vialle.
           He gestures to a chair for her as well. "May I inquire as to your name, M'lady?" he asks as he holds the chair.

           Date: Wed, 15 Dec 2004 04:00:20 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx gives Martin one of her best smiles, "Onyx. It's a pleasure to meet you."
           Amy gives Martin an impatient look, then turns to the new arrivals and says, "I apologize for Martin's poor hosting manners. My name is Amethyst, but you may call me Amy. I recognize you Vialle, though we have never met, and you said your name was Onyx, correct? Well I am pleased to meet you both. If you would give me just a moment, I will return with some refreshments for everyone."
           With that, Amy moves into the kitchen inside, and while thinning on the Pattern, opens the icebox to find a fresh pitcher of lemonade, finds a tray and two fresh glasses in a cupboard, and in a tin on the back of a counter finds some cookies. She arranges these on the tray and then returns to the table. "Ah, here we are. Would either of you care for a drink?"
           -Amy is a petite, attractive girl, standing at about 5'1", and weighing just a touch over 100 lbs. She has long, dark, curly hair and lavender eyes. She is wearing a long dress of green velvet, a silver pendant with a purple stone, and a silver ring. On the table next to her glass is a small dark green handbag and a leather bound book entitled "Ley Lines: A History of Witchcraft in Great Britain".

           Date: Thu, 16 Dec 2004 17:40:22 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           As Amy pours lemonade for the two new arrivals, she glances at them briefly, and then asks, "If it is not an intrusion on private matters, would mind telling me what has brought you both here? I truly do not mean to pry, but it seems convenient that Martin's step-mother arrives shortly after he brings me here. Has something of importance happened in Amber?" As she finishes pouring she sets the pitcher down, sits down carefully adjusting her dress, and then picks up the book and sets it on her lap, all the while looking from Vialle to Onyx as if expecting an answer.

           Date: Sat, 18 Dec 2004 20:52:50 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx looks at Vialle, letting her handle this one.
           Vialle turns her head toward Martin. "You haven't told her?" she asks.
           Martin scrunches up his face. "Yeah, I told her." he then turns toward Amethyst, "Remember, I said there was a battle raging right now? Dad and Vialle came here to stay out of harm's way." he replies.
           Vialle places her hand on Martin's arm and shakes her head slightly. "Not to worry, dear." she says calmly.
           Vialle smiles bright and cheerful once more. "Now, tell me. Have you talked with your father?" she asks.
           "Yes. And yes I have accepted." Martin nods.
           "Oh good. I'm so glad. Your father was worried you wouldn't be interested." Vialle replies.
           At that moment three people come out of the house onto the porch. One of them is a huge man with reddish hair. The next is a petite and pretty young lady. And the last is Random himself. Onyx knows, of course, the man is Shamus and the lady is Vialle's handmaid Jenna.

           Date: Sun, 19 Dec 2004 10:28:26 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx looks questionly at Martin, then Vialle, but doesn't say anything at the moment.
           The family resemblance between Random and Martin alerts Amy to his identity. As he approaches, Amethyst rises from her chair and curtsies, waiting for his permission to rise.

           Date: Sun, 19 Dec 2004 15:00:33 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Random takes in the scene with a smile and moves to the empty seat between Vialle and Amethyst. He places a hand on her shoulder. "That is not needed here." he remarks softly.
           Then to the group in general, "Everyone have a seat." and he does.

           Date: Tue, 21 Dec 2004 18:31:12 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx having not risen because she was lost in thought (and not used to this sort of thing) manages a week smile to no one in particular, then watches the group to hopefully find out what been going on.
           Amethyst rises from her curtsy, takes a seat for a moment, then rises again and says, "If you would give me a moment Majesty, I will fetch glasses for you and your companions."
           With Random's leave she quickly goes into the kitchen, fetches three glasses, returns, and pours lemonade for the men.
           "We have not been introduced before your Majesty. My name is Amethyst, daughter of Moire, Queen of Rebma, and Corwin of Amber. I apologize for my formal behavior, but I believe that certain decorum should be maintained."

           Date: Wed, 22 Dec 2004 19:45:23 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx subtly rolls her eyes.
           Martin smiles. You're not sure if it's in response to Onyx, or Amethyst.
           Random gives a soft chuckle. "Relax Amethyst. I know who you are. It's good to see someone keeping up their courtly manners and I'm sure your Aunt Florimel would be pleased as well." he pauses for a taste of the lemonade.
           "But this ain�t court, and here . . .", he gestures to include everything around, "Here, the only majesty is the mountains." he nods his head toward the left and said mountains.

           Date: Thu, 23 Dec 2004 10:59:38 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx smiles, showing her approval of his opinion. Then she takes a drink of her lemonade glancing at Amethyst over the glass to see her reaction to Random.
           Amethyst sits down and takes a sip of her own lemonade. "Then if it is not prying too much, how is the battle going? I fear that if it goes badly for Amber, it will be reflected in my mother's kingdom as well."

           Date: Thu, 23 Dec 2004 20:09:10 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Random nods his understanding and is about to reply but stops. "Excuse me for a moment." he says and stands up and moves to the opposite side of the porch.
           Vialle steps in and answers for him in his absence. "I have it on very good authority that Rebma and your mother are safe." she states.
           Martin, who has been staring at Onyx the whole time, chimes in. "The battle was, last I knew, limited to the Vale of Garnath."

           Date: Thu, 23 Dec 2004 21:39:33 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
"Vale of Garnath? What is that?" Onyx asks, and quickly gives Martin the subtle female �look�.
           "The vale of Garnath is the hilly plains region between Forest Arden and Amber herself." Martin replies with a smile.

           Date: Thu, 23 Dec 2004 22:16:50 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           It is Amy's turn to roll her eyes when Onyx gives Martin her look, though the mention of Garnath seems to spark a bit of interest. "Has it recovered since it was burned when my father assaulted Amber with Bleys?"

           Date: Mon, 27 Dec 2004 18:19:09 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
At this, Onyx's attention turns from Martin, to Amy... Her curiosity perked.
           Martin shrugs.
           Vialle frowns slightly. "Not completely I'm afraid. There are still patches that are badly scorched."
           Random, still in Trump contact, steps into the house.

           Date: Mon, 27 Dec 2004 17:23:57 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           A look of remorse passes over her face. "That saddens me to hear. I know through his books that one of my father's deepest regrets in his attempt to seize the throne was the destruction of that beautiful land. And here it seems another son of Amber risks that which has recovered." At that, Amethyst falls silent, her left hand resting gently on her book, her right holding her glass slightly raised as if she were going to take a drink but forgot.

           Date: Thu, 30 Dec 2004 19:02:06 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx looks to Amethyst, to Martin, and back to Amethyst again. "What -has- been going on? I'm starting to get a bit tired of being in the dark." She adds in a slightly irritated tone.
           Amy is shaken out of her contemplative moment and turns to Onyx. "I'm sorry to have left you out. My father Corwin is Random's brother. Sometime ago, before Random was made king, Corwin made an attempt to claim the throne from their brother Eric, who was something of a usurper. He was unsuccessful, but in the attempt he got very close to his goal, and one of the results was the Vale of Garnath being burned. It was one of his favorite places to go riding when he was growing up, and so he regretted its destruction."

           Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 10:09:59 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx listens intently to Amethyst. Once she is finished, Onyx nods, "And what's happened now?"
           "That is something that I do not know much about, though I am sure that Martin, Random, Vialle, or one of our other guests who have neither been introduced, nor introduced themselves, could tell you more about it. The most I know is that another of Random's brothers, one thought dead for some time, along with one of his uncles who was unknown before this, are attacking Amber. Several of Random's brothers, and I would assume sisters as well, are standing in Amber's defense. I do not know more than that." After her small speech, Amy takes a sip of her lemonade, and then looks expectantly at Martin for further details.

           Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 13:53:13 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Martin inhales and is about to say something when Vialle interrupts. "Oh my, Amethyst my manners are slipping, what you must think." she blushes slightly to show her embarrassment.
           "This is my assistant, Jenna." she indicates the young lady. "And this is Mr. Shamus, my husband's assistant here in Texorami." she says gesturing toward the large man.
           The man immediately removes his hat and stands. He speaks in a heavy Irish accent and smiles. "Please, just Shamus. It's a pleasure m'am."

           Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 11:13:21 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           "It is a pleasure Shamus, Jenna. As you are no doubt now aware, I am Amethyst." she says nodding to both before turning to Vialle, "And do not worry, it is a trying time for you, and your thoughts are probably at home right now, and not on frivolous niceties. Thank you though for introducing them, and it really is a pleasure to make both your acquaintances. Now Martin, what is it you were about to say."

           Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 14:36:29 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Martin blinks a couple of times before responding. "Ah. Um. I was just going to say you pretty much summed it up." he shrugs.
           Random returns to the porch at this time. He stops behind Onyx's chair and places a hand on her shoulder. "Your brother says hello." He says then moves to reclaim the seat he vacated earlier.
           "So what have I missed?" Random asks as he takes up his glass and takes a sip.

           Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 11:54:07 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx nodded to Amythest after she filled her in on what she knew, then watches the introduction exchange with a mildly distracted look. When Random returns to the porch, Onyx twists in her chair to give him a hello smile.
           Amy calmly turns to Random. "Nothing of importance. How goes the defense of the city?"

           Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 18:05:47 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx adds to Amythest's question, "Yeah, and who -exactly- is attacking it?"
           "Technically, no one is attacking Amber herself, but the battle is for control of Amber. To my understanding," Random replies and pauses.
           "The battle was initiated by Osric, one of my older brothers, and Trilias, a long lost brother of our dad." he adds.
           "Currently," he states. "The reports say Osric is retreating and possibly surrendering. And Trilias is continuing to fight, though his men are weakening.
           Random sighs then continues. "I have decided to step down as King and abdicate to my son Martin. He has agreed to accept."
           "Now, is everyone on the same page?" he asks a bit sarcastically.

           Date: Fri, 31 Dec 2004 17:23:52 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx looks surprised at the news of him stepping down as King and looks over at Martin with the shocked expression. After a moment, the initial surprise wears off and she returns Random's sarcasm, "Yeah." Then much nicer, polite, and sincere, "Thank you."
           Amy replies with interest, "So if Osric surrenders, will he be allowed to peacefully enter Amber? I know I haven't had much to do with the family, but I would love a chance to interview, and perhaps write a biography on a long thought dead relative."

           Date: Sat, 1 Jan 2005 12:45:44 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Random looks to Martin. "That would be your choice." he states.
           Martin blinks. "I hadn't thought about it." he answers. A moment later he ponders, "Hmm."

           Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2005 10:12:49 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           After watching the exchange between father and son, Amethyst says, "If I may make a suggestion, our uncle is less likely to show resentment if he is given a full pardon and allowed freedom in Amber. I imagine that if he were aware that the current king of Amber was the rightful heir of the king chosen by the unicorn, his anger would relent. As for the son of Dworkin, I do not know what would be a good option.

           Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2005 13:57:46 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Random nods. "She makes a good point. But you have a little time to think on it."
           Vialle speaks up once more. "Also keep in mind, you would do well to start with a good image, doing the right thing for Amber."
           "Right." Martin replies. "I'll keep it all in mind." he pours another glass of lemonade and offers to fill Onyx's glass.

           Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2005 15:45:37 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx smiles at Martin as she lets him refill her glass. Then seemingly goes back to thinking.
           After filling the two glasses, Martin sits back in his seat and glances around the table, he looks ready to speak but is interrupted by Random who suddenly sits forward in his chair and apparently answers a Trump with wide eyed disbelief.
           "What!?" he blurts out, startling Vialle and Jenna.
           He continues to converse out loud. "You're quite sure?" he asks the other end.
           Then, "Alright. Well, I suppose it's a blessing." he nods his head.
           "OK. Later." he ends the conversation then sits back in his chair and looks around the table. Martin and Shamus look to him expectantly.
           "Huh." Random begins. "Apparently Osric has been assassinated." he takes a drink of his lemonade.

           Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2005 14:30:10 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Appearing completely calm, Amy says, "Well, that is disturbing. It will hardly look good to Amber's other assailant, that the last person who surrendered was assassinated. Is there any indication as to who the murderer was?"

           Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2005 21:43:16 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx looked momentarily shocked, but regains her composure quickly with Amy's comment and question. She takes a gulp of her drink, not really tasting it, and continues to pay avid attention to the conversation.
           Random nods. "Though it's not entirely clear that Osric had surrendered. The report said it was one of his own staff." he replies.

           Date: Sun, 2 Jan 2005 21:43:51 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           "Ah, so we need not worry over blame being put on you Martin. Though it is upsetting to me to have missed this opportunity to interview him. Was there an update on the battle?" Amy pauses briefly to take a sip of lemonade, then calmly continues. "I hate to be a bother about it, but I am feeling somewhat anxious sitting here waiting to hear."

           Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2005 22:27:58 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
Onyx gives Amy an odd sideways glance, then waits for Random's response.
           Vialle answers, "I'm sure this is the safest place at the moment dear."
           Random nods his agreement.
           "I'm getting curious myself, dad." Martin says. "When will it be safe to go?" he asks.
           Random shakes his head. "It's hard to say, but I will get a call as soon as it *is* safe. Then we can go." he answers.

           Date: Mon, 3 Jan 2005 19:34:49 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Amy picks up her book as she stands up. She says, "Then please forgive my rudeness for the moment. I have never been a fan of idle chit chat, though this conversation has been much more informative and interesting than most. I will be inside on the comfortable looking couch if I am needed, or if something important should happen. It was a pleasure to meet everyone." She picks up her glass and heads inside, sitting down on the couch and reading her book.

           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting
           Random stands and nods as Amethyst excuses herself.
           "Of course dear." Vialle replies.
           Martin stands and says. "I'll let you know when it's time."
           Onyx nods to her and watches her go.

Meeting - Part II

           Date: Thu, 6 Jan 2005 20:16:48 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Meeting - Part II
           Martin walks over to the railing and looks out over the plains for a minute or two. Everyone else seems to be silently contemplating as well.
           Martin turns back to the group, "Restroom break, excuse me." and he heads into the house.
           At that moment there is the rumble of thunder and a couple flashes of lightning.
           Random balks, his eyes wide. "That's odd." he remarks.
           "You didn't ... ?" Vialle asks.
           "No." Random replies.
           Just then a very deep and booming voice rattles the windows. "Martin, son of Random, come out here boy."
           "Now." the voice commands when there is no immediate response.

           Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2005 21:33:24 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx watches the lightning with a small smile, but startles when the voice booms. "Who... What... ?" She doesn't quite get the question out and looks to Random and Vialle with startled curiosity in her eyes.
           Random is sitting back in his chair, eyebrows raised.
           Vialle has a look of intense concentration.
           Shamus has pulled a pistol from some where and is standing ready beside Random.
           Jenna is also looking very surprised, but she also looks concerned standing behind Vialle with one hand on her shoulder.
           Martin comes out to the porch followed by Amethyst who is now holding a cat.
           When Martin makes his appearance, the voice booms again. "Good. Now come on over to the fence rail where we can talk privately for a minute."
           Martin starts to obey wordlessly but Random interrupts. "Hold on. Just who the hell do you think you are? And more importantly, how did you find this place."
           Thunder accompanies the voice this time. "None of your concern you ungrateful lout!" it replies shortly.
           "You'll find out soon enough. Now come on boy" the voice commands.
           Martin regards Random for a few seconds. "It's alright dad. I'll be fine." and he walks over to the fence rail, leaning against casually.

           Date: Sun, 9 Jan 2005 22:12:05 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           Amethyst steps inside briefly, returning with a bag over her shoulder and the black cat still in her arms. She approaches the table quietly, retaking her seat. "Does anyone recognize that voice? It seems odd that it would call for Martin as if it already knew of the decision for Martin to take the crown."

           Date: Mon, 10 Jan 2005 06:01:02 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           It's Vialle who answers. "It's Dworkin. He's . . . changed." she replies.
           "Hm. Perhaps he is simply giving Martin advice. Or determining if he is worthy to be king. How is it he has changed?" Amethyst asks.
Onyx is intently paying attention to what is being said.
           Vialle's breath catches in her throat and she sits forward, "He no longer has a body." she replies, hands gripping the edge of the table.

           Date: Mon, 10 Jan 2005 15:26:02 - 16:27:46 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           "Thus he speaks to Martin as an incorporeal ghost. That makes senses. You do not think he means Martin any harm, do you? Perhaps he only seeks to judge the mettle of the future king of Amber."
           After a moment, Vialle relaxes. "I believe you are right, Amethyst. Thank you." she says.
Onyx nods her agreement, then watches Martin's body language.
           "So Onyx, how is it you come to know Vialle? I know it's rude to discuss family pasts, but the history of Amber is something that fascinates me. I am most interested in the genealogy of the rather extended family."

           Date: Mon, 10 Jan 2005 17:42:08 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"It is quite simple actually, how I came to know Vialle. I met the King when I arrived in Amber last night, I had a message for him earlier today and that is when I met Vialle," Onyx answers.
           "How interesting. So have you walked the Pattern?" Amy sets the cat on Martin's chair next to her, and pulls a sketchbook and charcoals out of her bag. "And do you mind too terribly much if I sketch you?" She flips open the book to a page about midway through, looks at it for a moment, and then looks back to Onyx waiting for her reply.

           Date: Tue, 11 Jan 2005 04:19:17 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"I guess you can sketch me, but why do you want to?"
           "I am an artist, and I enjoy sketching. It is a good way to pass the time when one is waiting for something to happen." Amethyst begins a sketch, starting with Onyx's head & face. "So what are your hobbies? What do you enjoy doing?"

           Date: Tue, 11 Jan 2005 12:36:32 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"Well, lets see... I love learning new things, exploring new places, dancing, running, hard rock music, sex, and motorcycles. How about yourself - besides sketching?" Onyx smiles at her, a twinkle in the eye.
           Amethyst begins sketching, looking up occasionally. "I enjoy reading, history, art, and poetry. I'm also a fan of riding, but I prefer horses to motorcycles. I did rather enjoy skiing the one time I went, though finding time to go again is difficult." Amy takes a drink of her lemonade, then returns to her sketch. "What do you know of your lineage?"

           Date: Fri, 14 Jan 2005 11:52:20 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"A little. This family seems to be so large and I find that I still don't know of everyone. Plus, the family interaction is much different than what I'm used to." Onyx pauses, "You don't seem too disturbed by this... do you know Dworkin?"
           Amy glances up from her sketch briefly, reaches to her glass, takes a sip, puts it back, then returns to her sketch. "I know of him. Dworkin created the Pattern and the first Trumps. His son, Oberon, is Random's father. Well, he actually has many children, including my father Corwin. I was not aware that he had become disembodied, though that does not surprise me. According to my father's writings, Dworkin had become somewhat insane. He was still able to converse and appeared normal part of the time, but his mind was obviously fractured. How is this?" She turns the sketch around. It shows Onyx in slim, formfitting, formal dress. She is facing the left, with her right hand on her hip and her left holding a rose across her body.
           Martin is still by the fence rail conversing with the air.
           Vialle has settled back in her chair an is quietly listening to something, maybe your conversation or maybe Martin's.
           Random has moved to the edge of the porch to watch Martin.

           Date: Wed, 19 Jan 2005 04:39:19 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx seems serious until Amy turns the sketch around, then a smile lights up her face, "Wow. I really like it. How long have you studied art?"
           "I have been an artist my entire life. I never studied per se, though I have looked over the styles of the master's of many shadows. With your permission, I will attempt to start a Trump of you."

           Date: Wed, 19 Jan 2005 13:36:24 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"Sure, go ahead," Onyx says before taking a drink of her lemonade. "Do you know how Dworkin become insane?"
           Amy sets the sketchbook down, reaches into her bag drawing out a piece of card stock, and a small lap easel. She also draws out a pencil, before beginning a light sketch on the paper. She begins by drawing in a border and sketching a semblance of the pattern into the picture. She then layers over that a sketch of Onyx, much the same as her charcoal piece. The border takes the shape of coral and waves. "I do not know. My father's theory was that damage that had occurred to the Primal Pattern, which has since been undone, affected Dworkin's mind, as he was apparently the original Pattern's creator."

           Date: Thu, 20 Jan 2005 04:32:12 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"Primal Pattern?" Onyx asks.
           She continues adding to the sketch. A careful observer might have noticed that the original sketch of the Pattern she put down was actually a mirror image of the true Pattern. After a few minutes of sketching, she reaches into her bag and draws out a few paints and brushes. She hesitates for a moment before replacing them.
           "The Primal Pattern is the original. It is where Dworkin first recorded it. The Pattern in Amber is the first reflection of it, making Amber the first Shadow of order. The Pattern is so strong in Amber that there are two reflections of it in the Shadow. One in Rebma, and one in the ghost city of Tirna N'Goth. I am sorry, but I will need to wait before I start painting this.
           I am going to need some quiet time, and I would prefer to be in my own studio. It should be finished soon, and it will allow me to contact you. If you need to speak to me," she pulls out her slim package of trumps and draws out a spare one of herself, "use this." She hands the copy to Onyx, and then replaces her sketchbook, easel, charcoal, and pencil in the bag. She sets the bag on the floor, and then picks up the black cat, setting it in her lap.
           Amethyst's Trump is her own artwork, and the portrait is of her in a green velvet dress with her jewelry. A black cat is at her feet, and she is standing with a table on one side, and an easel on the other. A small pile of books rests on the table, and in her hand is a brush. The painting on the easel is the same as the image on the card, and thus it is repeated until it becomes difficult to distinguish.

           Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2005 13:22:17 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx takes the card from her, "Thank you." After a very short pause as she tucks it carefully away in her back pocket she asks, "Then where is the Primal one located?"
           "The Primal Pattern is in the one true ordered world, as far from Chaos as you can travel. If you want think of it as Amber is in the shadow immediately next to the Primal Pattern, though that isn't quite correct. It is a difficult concept to explain."

           Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2005 19:36:37 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx's brows furrow a bit, then she nods in understanding. "You said Dworkin recorded it... how does one record a pattern that influences so strongly? That seems impossible."
           Random, who had been leaning against the railing watching Martin the whole time, moves down the stairs and meets his son halfway between the porch and the fence rail.
           They return to the porch and Martin reclaims his seat. Random does as well.
           "Well, let's hear it boy, what did he say?" Random orders.
           Martin gives a quick grin. "All I can say is that I have to go to the courts to retrieve something before I can become King." he answers.
           "You have to go on a quest to be King?" Random asks no one in particular. "Why didn't I think of that before?" he adds.

           Date: Fri, 21 Jan 2005 20:42:19 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           Amethyst first answers Onyx, "We can finish discussing this later. My father has quite a bit to say on this in his book, and I'll tell you more."
           She then turns to Random, "I think that this may work to Martin's advantage. This seems a rough moment to take the throne, especially with the assassination of a prisoner of war, and it may be better to put off the exchange a bit. Also, one of the things I had been discussing with him before your arrival was that if I am to be something of an ally to him, it would be better if he was not the one to acknowledge me in court. It may seem odd that one of the first things he did, was to introduce the court to a previously unknown relative. Now this is something you can take care of before he returns from Chaos."

           Date: Sat, 22 Jan 2005 09:01:20 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx nods to acknowledge Amethyst's answer concerning their conversation, then quietly takes in the exchange. After Amy finishes she asks, "Chaos? I've heard this place mentioned before. Can someone clue me in?"
           Taking a sip of lemonade, Amy waits for Random to answer her, as he is the senior Amberite present.

           Date: Sat, 22 Jan 2005 21:58:00 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           Random arches an eyebrow. "First, your father's book is hardly the authority on the subject, neither is your father for that matter." he gives a small chuckle.
           "And second," he continues. "I can make your introduction to the court, but it would be so much easier to just get the whole thing done and over with all at the same time. Because not only will there be an introduction, but there will be an oath ceremony where *everyone* will have to swear fealty to the new king. Not just you, but Onyx and Unicorn knows who all else that comes crawling out of the woods with Amber heritage. As well as myself and my brothers and sisters. If they so choose, of course." He stops and takes a long drink of the lemonade, finishing off the glass.
           "Now to answer Onyx's question," he begins again. "The Courts of Chaos are the opposite plane of existence from Amber. Amber is order and just. The Courts are just as the name suggests, chaotic and lawless."
           He pauses for a few seconds to see if Onyx has comprehended what he just said.

           Date: Sat, 22 Jan 2005 22:21:14 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx thinks on it a moment and asks, "Lawless, how so?"
           Random smiles. "Smart girl." he says. "It's lawless in the realm of physics and time and space." Random explains.
           "For example, here. The sky is a dusty rose color during the day, everyday. In the Courts, the sky changes color all the time. Most of the place is in a state of constant flux." he expands.

           Date: Sun, 23 Jan 2005 17:33:25 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx takes that in, then comments, "Trippy."
           Random shrugs and gives a 'There you have it' kind of expression.
           Martin gives a short cough then turns his attention to Amethyst. "I was actually hoping you would go with me."

           Date: Tue, 25 Jan 2005 04:24:03 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx looks to Martin and Amethyst, waiting to hear her response.
           "I would not be opposed to that. The opportunity to study the Courts is something I should take advantage of. There is also the possibility that my father may have chosen to reside there. Yes, I will go with you Martin."

           Date: Wed, 2 Feb 2005 21:15:41 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           Martin smiles and nods. "Good." he replies. Then he turns to look at Onyx. "How about you? Would be able to go with us?" he asks.
Her faces lights up, "I would love to."
           Martin also brightens. "Good. We'll leave tomorrow unless either of you need more time to prepare." he says excitedly.

           Date: Wed, 2 Feb 2005 18:29:45 -0800 (PST)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           Amy takes another drink, lifts her cat up off the ground, then stands, with her cat in one arm, and her hand on her bag. "That would be fine. Do we need to remain here, or can we return home and be contacted in the morning?"

           Date: Wed, 2 Feb 2005 21:40:09 - 17:27:15 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           "No, by all means, go home and take care of all that you need to." Martin replies.
           "Then good evening to everyone, it was wonderful to meet you all. Martin if you will be kind enough to contact me in the morning, it would be appreciated." Amy will pick up her bag and go back into the house.
Onyx nods a farewell to Amy as she says her goodbye.
           Martin watches Amy enter the house then turns to Onyx. "Do you need to make any arrangements?" he asks.

           Date: Wed, 9 Feb 2005 21:58:11 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"No, I don't think so. I only came to Amber with a small bag of belongings and they are in Amber Castle... Though a change of cloths would be nice for tomorrow." Onyx shrugs and smiles.
           "Well, let's see what we can do." Martin replies. "Jenna, would you help Onyx with a change of clothes please?" he asks very pleasantly.
           Jenna gives him a look that says 'who do you think you are', but Vialle puts her hand over Jenna's. "It's alright Jenna, go ahead." Vialle says softly.
           "Yes M'Lady." Jenna answers. "Come with me." she says with a quick smile.

           Date: Wed, 9 Feb 2005 22:21:58 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx follows her, "Thanks Jenna. I appreciate it... Are we to spend the night here do you know? I guess I'd like to know where I'm to sleep."
           "My guess would be, yes, you're staying. I'll show you a room. In fact, there will probably be clothes in there already." she replies as she leads you through the house.

           Date: Wed, 9 Feb 2005 22:48:04 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
           The house is decorated in a very simple old west style. Wooden furniture, hardwood floors, exposed timbers, that sort of thing. The windows do have screens and shutters. Inside it is a lot bigger than what it looks from the outside.
"How long have you served Vialle?" Onyx asks attempting to make pleasant small talk.
           "Nearly 25 years, now" Jenna answers and flashes a smile over her shoulder as she opens a door.
           Inside is a large bedroom with a large bed in the center. Everything is white linen. It gives a cool crisp feel to the room.
           Jenna moves to the wardrobe that stands next to the floor to ceiling window. She opens it to reveal several changes of clothing. Mostly in browns and reds, but they look like they will fit.
           "If you need anything else, just let me know." Jenna states and turns for the door.

           Date: Thu, 10 Feb 2005 06:39:41 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"Thanks Jenna," Onyx says with a genuine smile.
           She looks out the window: It's mid evening, about 6:30 or 7:00. The sun is starting to set and the sky is a beautiful fiery red and orange.

           Date: Fri, 11 Feb 2005 11:03:09 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx gets a feel for her room, sees if there is anything akin to running cloths (she changes if there is), goes to find the bathroom then heads back outside to the porch, meaning to take a run.
           She manages to put something together and make it to the porch. Vialle and Jenna are not present; it's just Random, Martin and Shamus. The men all look up when you come out.
           "All set?" Martin asks with a smile.

           Date: Sat, 12 Feb 2005 17:31:32 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx smiles back, totally at ease despite the fact she's in the company of all men, "Yup, Jenna showed me were I'll be sleeping and found me cloths that look like they'll fit. I was thinking about going for a run. Can any of you fine gentlemen recommend a direction with an exceptional scenic highlight?
           Martin is about to say something when Random interrupts. "Out past the coral." he jerks his thumb behind him to indicate the direction. "You might want to hurry though. There's only about 45 minutes of good light left." he smiles. "Not to mention the coyotes."

           Date: Sat, 12 Feb 2005 19:39:42 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
"Great, thanks." To Martin she asks, "Are you sticking around till morning, or heading out?"
           "I'll be here." Martin replies with a charming smile.

           Date: Sun, 13 Feb 2005 13:18:54 - Mon, 14 Feb 2005 10:03:44 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Meeting - Part II
Onyx grins, "Good. See you men later." With that she takes off in the direction Random recommended, her newly made up pony-tail bouncing as she jogs off.
           You are well aware, the men watch as you head out. -Which is exactly what she was hoping for.
           It's been a stressful 24 hours for Onyx and she hasn't been able to release it. Once she gets out of eye sight, she plans on shifting into her black panther form and letting the animal take over for bit (though not 100%, she doesn't want to lose control... heaven forbid. :) ).
           She wants to feel her catlike muscles working and experience the agility and dexterity of the form, seeing the landscape from the heightened senses of the creature.
           Making sure you're far enough away from the horses so as not to spook them, you shift your skeletal and muscle tissue and soon are in your familiar feline form.
           There is a path out here, a riding trail. It's clear to your heightened senses anyway. And Random wasn't kidding about the coyotes. You could smell them even before you started to shift. But you probably won't have to worry about them, not in this form.
           She runs a bit, plays a bit, pouncing on loose leaves and such. Just having a good time and relaxing. She does this for about a 20 minutes then if nothing noteworthy happens she heads back to the ranch shifting back to normal before she gets too close to the corral.
           As she rounds the corner of the house, she notices another figure on the porch, her brother, Lladdwyr, had returned.

Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 07:01:26 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           As if speaking her name summoned her, your sister rounds the corner of the house.
           As Onyx rounds the corner of the house, she notices another figure on the porch, her brother, Lladdwyr (dressed like a kitchen servant), had returned.
           She jogs up to the porch smiling, preparing to say hello while she catches her breath.
           "Speak of the devil." Random remarks.

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 09:21:08 -0600 (CST)
           From: Lladd
She wipes her brow, "Hey," she says as a hello for now. After a few moments her breathing is pretty much back to normal. She looks to Lladd, "I'd give ya a hug, but I doubt you'd appreciate it at the moment", she grins.
           "That's fine," he replies with an answering grin. "Just thought I'd see what everyone was up to here." He looks questioningly at Martin.

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 17:50:47 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Both Random and Martin arch an eyebrow curiously before Random answers. "Well, Martin and Onyx, along with another cousin, Amethyst will be heading out to the Courts of Chaos in the morning. It seems they have to claim some kind of artifact before Martin can take my place on the throne." he stops and gives a firm nod of his head.
           "That's about it." Martin confirms.

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 17:47:39 -0600
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           From: Lladd
Onyx watches the exchange, leaning up against the railing.
           Lladd looks from Random to Martin, a speculative glint coming to his eyes. "Ah, so you will be the successor. I'm not sure about the protocol in this case. Are congratulations in order?"

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 19:04:05 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Martin gives a slight nod of his head. "I'm not being forced into it if that's what you mean." he responds.
           Random gives a half smile and shakes his head briefly. "No, you were not forced into it, but you eagerly accepted it didn't you?" he reminds his son.
           "True." Martin admits with a smile.
           "Come join us, Onyx. Have a seat." Martin suggests and pulls out the seat next to him.

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 18:16:18 -0600
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           From: Lladd
"Thanks, Martin", she smiles at him sweetly as she sits down, leaning slightly toward him in her chair.
           Lladdwyr shakes his head with an amused smile at Onyx, and finds a handy post to lean against. "No, I didn't mean to imply that," he answers Martin's statement. "But now you're off to the Courts... to retrieve an artifact? Sounds potentially dangerous. Do you have a guide?"

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 19:37:55 - 19:51:36 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Martin places his arm on the back of Onyx's chair. He gives a small frown as he replies, "Yeah, of sorts. Why, do you know your way around the Courts?"
           "No, can't say as I've ever been there," Lladd replies. He takes a breath to add something, then stops, falling silent.
"What is the 'guide of sorts'?" Onyx asks as she gently leans back in her chair.
           "Something bothering you, Lladd?" Random asks at the same time.
           "Hmm? Oh I have a contact there." Martin replies distractedly.

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 19:03:47 - 19:39:54 -0600
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           From: Lladd
           "No, not really. Just curious about the timetable for, ah, Martin to take the reins, as it were. How long this foray into the Courts was going to take." He shrugs. "I was planning to invite Onyx to go somewhere, but my destination cannot compete with the exotic Courts of Chaos."
Onyx says, teasing, "Oh, Lladd... you're going to make me feel guilty." Then more seriously, "Where were you going to invite me to?"
           "Ah." Random replies. "Well, if Onyx wanted to, she could go with you, since Amethyst is already going along." he offers.
           "It's up to you." Martin says to Onyx, but it's apparent he does not appreciate the suggestion.
           "I'm off to Begma, a kingdom near Amber. A business holiday, if you will. Perhaps Random can share some information about it, as I'm not familiar with its attractions."

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 20:58:02 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Random stares at you for a heartbeat before giving a shrug. "Begma is a port in the Golden Circle of Shadows that trade with Amber. They're known for import and export obviously, but they also produce some of the best seafood in the region. Aside from that, it's very much like Amber really."
"Could we go another time? Maybe after I get back from Chaos if we're both free. I've already committed to the trip. Not to mention, I've heard a lot about Chaos and I've just meet Martin, and Amy too." She smiles apologetically.

           Date: Tue, 15 Feb 2005 22:29:41 -0600
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           From: Lladd
           Lladd is silent and still a moment, then he smiles again suddenly. "There will be other destinations, likely enough," he replies. "Not to worry. With your leave," he adds with a deferential nod to Random, "I won't be leaving until tomorrow sometime."

           Date: Thu, 17 Feb 2005 07:00:20 -0500 - 11:17:03 -0600 (CST)
           From: GM - Lladd
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Random half shrugs, half nods. "There are plenty of rooms here. You're welcome to stay."
           At the same time, Vialle and Jenna come out to the porch.
           "Lladd!" Vialle says smiling. "I thought I heard your voice." she places a hand gently on Lladd's shoulder.
           Lladd shifts uncomfortably, but manages to stay put and greet her with a smiling, "Hi."
           "Everyone, dinner will be ready very shortly, I suggest we move inside." Vialle announces.
           Random, Martin and Shamus all move that direction.

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Date: Thu, 17 Feb 2005 11:17:03 -0500 - Sat, 19 Feb 2005 17:27:24 -0600 (CST)
           From: Lladd - GM
Onyx begins to follow, planning on washing up and changing out of her semi-damp clothing quickly.
           Lladdwyr offers Vialle his arm, to escort her to dinner along with the others.
           Dinner is set up as a buffet with the fixings for tacos and burritos.
           Random, Martin and Shamus dive right in.
           Lladd assists Vialle in any way necessary, giving Jenna a conciliatory smile for taking over her "job" temporarily. He also gets a rather large salad with lots of corn chips [yummy!!] before heading over to the table and sitting at one end.
After getting freshened up, Onyx makes herself some food and takes a seat next to Martin.
           After everyone has had a few bites, Vialle breaks the polite silence. "So, Lladd, are you going off to the Courts in the morning too?" she asks.
           "Um, no," he answers. "Perhaps another time."
           "Oh. good." Vialle replies sounding relieved.

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Date: Sat, 19 Feb 2005 18:34:06 -0600 (CST) - 20:08:00 -0500
           From: Lladd - GM
Onyx quietly eats, listening to the conversation. -And discreetly watches Martin out of the corner of her eye.
           "Not to change the topic prematurely," Lladd says then, looking from Random to Martin. "But if I may ask, is there someone who will be overseeing Amber while Martin is in Chaos? Since you have already abdicated, as I understand it, sir," he adds to Random.
           "Mmm." Random says with a mouthful of chips and salsa. "That's a good question." he adds after washing down the food with a drink of his cerveza.
           "I haven't officially abdicated yet. So, to answer your question, I'm still in charge," he gives a quick wink and grins.

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
           Date: Sat, 19 Feb 2005 19:22:05 -0600 (CST) - Sun, 20 Feb 2005 18:44:29 -0600
           From: Lladd - GM
           Lladd looks briefly nonplussed, but then he nods. "Thank you. Good to know." He goes back to his salad, apparently satisfied with that.
           Random stares at Lladd for a moment longer then shrugs and finishes his beer.
           Martin has also finished and turns to his dad. "Up for some cards tonight?" he asks.
           Random glances at Vialle and she gives him a smile. "Sure, if you want to get your butt wupped, that is." Random replies.
           "Huh. We'll see who gets wupped." Martin retorts.
           "Care to join us Lladdwyr?" Random asks.
           Lladd, taking a drink, sets his glass down before answering. "Only a few hands, I think, but yes. Thanks."

           Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2005 07:45:54 - 08:39:15 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude
Once Onyx finished eating, she gets up and heads toward the kitchen to take care of her plate.
           Random grins. "Good. Let�s go to the game room." he stands and heads in that direction.
           Martin and Shamus follow him.
           Vialle and Jenna also remove their dishes to the kitchen.
           "I'll join you shortly," Lladdwyr answers Random, then picks up his things and carries them into the kitchen after Vialle and Jenna.
           "Alright. We'll deal you into the next hand." Random replies over his shoulder.

Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude 2

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr/Onyx - Interlude 2
           Date: Mon, 21 Feb 2005 08:54:06 - Sun, 06 Mar 2005 08:08:52 -0600 (CST)
           From: Lladd/GM
           On the way there, Lladd says to Vialle, "Do you ever go for walks in the desert here?"
           "Yes. As a matter of fact, Onyx and I went for a walk shortly after you left." She replies.
           "Splendid," Lladd says. "Would you... care to join me for a stroll tomorrow morning? After Martin and Onyx leave for Chaos."
Onyx smiles to herself as she listens to them talk.
           Vialle smiles brightly, an expression that compliments her very well. "I would *love* that Lladd." she answers and gives his arm a squeeze.
           "Great. Till then." He puts his dishes in whatever dish receptacle might be around, nods to Onyx with a faint smirk, then heads off to find the poker game.
           Vialle nods as Lladd exits.

Onyx - Interlude

           Date: Fri, 11 Mar 2005 15:01:38 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Onyx - Interlude
           When he's gone, Jenna turns to Onyx, "So, what are your plans for the rest of the evening?" she asks.

           Date: Mon, 14 Mar 2005 17:39:45 - 19:06:23 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx - Interlude
Her expression shows a hint of a mischievous grin, before her usual pleasant neutral one shows itself once again, "Nothing really. I'll write in my journal a bit before bed, otherwise I didn't have anything in mind. Why do you ask?"
           Jenna glances at Vialle for a second then replies, "It's kind of a tradition, when the men go off to play poker, the ladies get to have ice cream and talk about the men."
           "What do you say? Are you interested?" Vialle asks.
As Jenna explains, a smile spreads across Onyx's face, "I'm definitely interested."
           Both Vialle and Jenna smile. "Good. Help Vialle get the spoons, I'll get the ice cream." Jenna replies brightly.
           Vialle opens the drawer in front of her and reaches in to find the spoons.

           Date: Mon, 21 Mar 2005 20:21:57 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx - Interlude
Onyx, by taking any clues from any of Vialle's movements, helps out with the task.
           The utensils gathered, Vialle turns and heads toward the table once again.
           Jenna has retrieved a large container of fudge swirl ice cream and also heads for the table.
           Once you are all seated around the tub of the frozen treat, Vialle turns her sightless eyes to Onyx. "So Onyx, you seem to have an attraction to Martin?" she says with a grin.
           Jenna giggles as she licks a gob of chocolate from her spoon.

           Date: Wed, 23 Mar 2005 18:57:34 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx - Interlude
As onyx reaches to scoop up a spoonful of chocolaty goodness, she grins and says slightly dramatically in good humor, "yeah... he is cute, to say it mildly. And the best part... he seems to be interested in me too," she winks.
           Vialle smiles and chuckles a bit while Jenna giggles some more then settles herself and says, "Ok. My turn." and she turns to Vialle. "Are you looking forward to Random abdicating?" she asks.
           Vialle's smile fades slightly. "Yes and no. And I can't elaborate on that right now so don't ask." she sticks her tongue out in a playful way.
           "Alright, fair enough." Jenna replies. "Ok, Onyx. It's your turn. Ask one of us a question." she instructs.

           Date: Sat, 26 Mar 2005 11:31:04 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx - Interlude
Onyx swallows her spoonful of ice cream, "Well, I've been quizzed and Vialle's been quizzed, so that leaves... You Jenna." Onyx smiles at her before continuing, "Any special guy you're involved with or have your eye on?"
           Jenna smiles as if she knew the question was coming. "Yes there is." she responds. "Charles. He's in the Castle Guard. We've... spent time together." she adds.
           Vialle looks kind of surprised, not shocked, but surprised.

           Date: Wed, 30 Mar 2005 12:38:58 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx - Interlude
"Mm hm," Onyx says smiling, waiting to see if she might elaborate or not.
           Jenna doesn't elaborate but Vialle gives a good sized yawn and says, "Oh pardon me! It must be time for bed." she stretches and stands, Jenna moves to her side instinctively.
           "Well I trust you'll have a restful night and I'll see you before you leave in the morning." Vialle states. And with that, she heads off to bed with Jenna at her side, leaving Onyx alone.
"G'night." Onyx calls after them. "Hmmm", she thinks to herself. She grabs another spoonful of ice cream, letting it slowly melt in her mouth while she strains her ears to hear what might be going on with the guys.
           There is oddly, not a sound from the other room.

Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker

           Date: Thu, 21 Apr 2005 19:07:45 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
Onyx puts away the ice cream then enters the room to see Martin and Shamus sitting back in their chairs, no cards in their hands and only a few chips on the table in front of each of them.
           Random and Lladd, on the other hand, *do* have cards in their hands and a huge pile of chips in the middle of the table. She can't read either man's expression.
           As Onyx enters, Random calls and places his hand on the table, a straight flush, Queen through eight.
           When Lladd lays his hand on the table, Random looks surprised for a second, then grins. The grin quickly turns into a smile.
           When Martin and Shamus see the hands they both gasp and Martin says, "Shit!"
           Lladd has won by suit. Random's flush was hearts, Lladd's was spades. In the event of a tie the highest suit wins. The order is (from high to low) spades, hearts, clubs and then diamonds.
           Random stands up and extends his hand. "Well played Lladd, well played." he says still smiling.

           Date: Fri, 22 Apr 2005 21:02:29 -0500
           From: Lladd
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
Onyx smiles as she leans up against the door frame watching.
           Lladdwyr laughs, in all good humor, standing up as well. He clasps Random's hand with only a bare hint of discomfort. "That was unexpected. Your poker skills are near legend."

           Date: Fri, 22 Apr 2005 22:11:49 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
           Random laughs.
           Martin looks up and notices Onyx. He smiles and gestures for her to come in.
She then wanders in, watching the exchange of conversation with amusement.

           Date: Fri, 22 Apr 2005 21:56:56 -0500
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
           From: Lladd
           Lladd glances around then, too, noticing Onyx. He nods, expression tolerant. "I don't know what you typically do with the winnings," he notes absently.

           Date: Sat, 23 Apr 2005 17:19:51 - 21:00:26 -0400
           From: GM & Lladd
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
           All three men, Shamus, Martin and Random laugh. Still chuckling, Random says, "This was just a game for fun. If you really want to take all the chips, you're welcome to 'em." he chuckles some more then settles down.
           "Not really. I usually just give them away," Lladd says.
           "Now if we had been playing for real," Random pauses just a second for effect. "Then you would be able to cash in your chips and claim your winnings." he finishes with a slightly disconcerting smile.
           Lladdwyr laughs lightly. "I make it a policy not to play seriously at games others are better at than I," he replies with a faint, ironic smile. "But twas fun. I think I'll be moving along, though."
           Still smiling, Random stretches. "Yeah." he sighs. "I need to hit sack myself." He heads for the door then stops and turns around.
           "Don't stay up too late, son. You have a lot on your plate tomorrow." he smiles at Martin.
           "Yeah, dad. Sure." Martin replies chuckling. Random turns and leaves the room.
           "I'll be turnin' in too." Shamus states as he also stretches and heads for the door.

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
           Date: Mon, 25 Apr 2005 09:43:30 - 21:22:24 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd & GM
           Lladd nods. "Yes, you'll be heading off first thing tomorrow then," he remarks.
           He turns to look at Martin with his back to Onyx, adding, "It will be quite a new experience for Onyx, so I expect you'll watch out for her." Yes, and when he says that with a serious voice, he gives Martin a look that says clearly 'if you screw up I'll cut you down without hesitation or remorse, and I'll enjoy it.' And the fact that he is a killer and more than capable of following through might give a bit more weight than some "older" brother threats.
           Martin nods in response to Lladd's advice. "Of course." he replies rather dismissively as he wraps an arm around Onyx's shoulder. Even though he *sounds* dismissive, you are pretty confident he got the picture.
           Lladdwyr smiles, but without real humor. He turns his attention to Onyx, observing in a friendly way, "It sounded like you and Vialle were having quite a time in the next room."

           Date: Tue, 26 Apr 2005 11:31:19 -0500
           From: Lladd
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
Onyx shrugs slightly, so not to disturb Martin's arm, "Yeah. From the look of it you guys had quite the poker game in here."
           "It was quite entertaining. Random has something of a... notoriety when it comes to gambling and poker. I imagine that would be a valuable asset for a monarch."

           Date: Wed, 27 Apr 2005 23:02:05 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
           Martin either missed, or chooses to ignore, the implied insult in Lladd's last comment. Instead, he leans in and gives Onyx a quick kiss on the cheek.
           "Well I guess we should get to bed. Tomorrow will be pretty busy." he gives her shoulders a squeeze and without further ado and with out looking back, he leaves the room.

           Date: Thu, 28 Apr 2005 12:30:59 -0500
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
           From: Lladd
Onyx gives a goodbye nod and smile to Lladd "See you in the morning, probably. Sleep well." Then with a devilish grin and a twinkle in the eye, she follows Martin.
           "Sleep well," he replies with a wink.

           Date: Mon, 2 May 2005 20:21:45 - Sat, 4 Jun 2005 11:14:02 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx- Interlude w/poker
           Martin is waiting outside the room when Onyx comes out. He gives her a smile but says nothing. Instead, he turns and heads toward the back of the house.
           Onyx returns his smile and thinks to herself while she follows him, ~Finally, I can have some fun! I've really been needing this!~
           Onyx takes cues from Martin after they've finished. If he seems like the type to want to cuddle all night, then she plans on staying. If he seems like the type to roll to his side of the bed and pass out, then she'll say goodbye in the way men like and trot off to her room.
           Martin is willing to go for most of the night. Somewhere around 3 or 4 in the morning, he pulls Onyx into an embrace lying side by side. "You know, if we didn't have to travel to the Courts tomorrow, I would be happy to go on. But, as it is, we are going to have to continue this another time." and he kisses her.
           Onyx smiles and says teasingly, "Oh, all right." After she kisses him back and the embrace has ended, she slowly gets out of bed and efficiently throws on her jeans and shirt holding everything else bunched up her in hands, sandals dangling from finger-tips. "I'll see you in the morning Stud." She leans towards him and gives him another quick kiss before heading out of the room, smiling over her shoulder at him as she shuts his door.
           Once in her own room she tosses everything in a corner, stripes off the jeans and shirt before getting into bed and falling asleep.

Onyx - Morning in Texorami

           Date: Sat, 4 Jun 2005 11:31:13 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Onyx - Morning in Texorami
           Onyx wakes to the warmth of the sun streaming through the window and the smell of breakfast in the kitchen.
           Onyx stretches, smiles, then gets up and walks to the wardrobe without opening it. "Hmm, what to wear today for travel?" She vividly imagines a slightly worn, comfortable pair of leather hiking boots sitting in the bottom of the wardrobe. Then she adds to the image a faded pair of low rider blue jeans, which will fit her like a second skin, folded up next to the boots. Lastly she adds a black tank top and a flannel shirt hanging up above the boots. Once she can see these items vividly in her mind's eye and has imagined what the fabric feels like and how they will feel on her, she opens the door to the wardrobe to see them right where she knew they'd be. Onyx takes them out, places them on the bed, and returns to the wardrobe, shutting the doors. "Ok, for under things." She pauses, "Oh! And accessories." She now does the same procedure for a nice set of black lace panties & bra, a thick leather belt, and a pair of feathered earrings to match her necklace. Once she has these retrieved, she gathers everything up and heads to the bathroom for a quick shower before breakfast.
           On her way out of the bathroom, as she passes her room, she notices a piece of paper on the end of her bed.

           Date: Tue, 7 Jun 2005 07:02:12 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx - Morning in Texorami
"Oh!" she exclaims quietly. She enters the room, picks it up and opens it.
           Inside is a Trump card of Martin. The note reads:

                      Onyx,
                      I tried to wake you shortly after sunrise but you didn't stir. We decided to go ahead and
                      get started and you could catch up when you were ready. Don't rush, go ahead and get
                      some breakfast then get yourself a horse and Trump me when you're ready.

                      Martin

"I can't believe I didn't notice him come in." She frowns, "I didn't think I was that tired." After a pause, she shrugs, tucks the card away with the few she already has and continues on her search for food.

           Date: Wed, 8 Jun 2005 06:49:33 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx - Morning in Texorami
           If Onyx had not already been in the house before this morning, she could find the kitchen by following her nose. The smell of bacon combined with coffee is almost intoxicating.
           In the kitchen she finds a member of the house staff taking orders at the grill. Vialle is standing near the coffee pot with a mug and Lladdwyr is in line to order his breakfast.

Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           Date: Wed, 08 Jun 2005 13:38:12 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
           Onyx enters the kitchen dressed in worn leather boots, form fitting low-rider faded blue jeans, a black tank top with a flannel shirt hanging open over it, hair in pig-tail braids with feathered earrings.
           "Good morning" She says to everyone cheerfully as she gets in line behind Lladd.
           Lladdwyr is dressed for the day in much the same way he was when Onyx first met him - comfortable, semi-formal pants and long-sleeved shirt of brown and cream, respectively, cut in a loose-fitting style. The same worn sandals, tangle of necklaces and bracelets, and loose, damp hair with dry ends curling completes his outfit this morning.
           He glances over at the door as she appears and smiles right back at her. "Good morning, yourself. Did you, um, sleep well?" he asks. His plate already amply filled, he heads to a handy nearby chair.

           Date: Sun, 12 Jun 2005 18:12:34 - Mon, 20 Jun 2005 16:19:46 -0500
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           From: Lladd
           Onyx grins at him, "I slept very well - too well. It was a wonderful night," her eyes have a hint of a twinkle.
           After Onyx has gotten her hearty breakfast she sits down to chow-down.
           "That's good to hear. There's nothing like a good night's rest before leaving for a long journey," Lladdwyr replies, willing to play along.
           Lladd joins, settling at the table across from Onyx with his plate and a glass of juice. After a couple bites, he turns his attention back to her. "So, ah, tell me about yourself," he invites Onyx with another friendly smile. "Where are you from, who is your mother, that sort of thing?"

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           Date: Tue, 21 Jun 2005 08:36:16 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx smiles, and responds between bites (She's really hungry!), "Well, I'm from Pagonia and my mom's name is Santha." She pauses to chew and swallow. "She's pretty cool. Though she had problems adjusting to my becoming a woman and becoming my own person." Another short pause, "How about you, where are you from? Were you raised in the country?"
           He has himself taken a few bites, and shakes his head at her last question. "No, quite a large and crowded city, in fact. My home shadow is mostly desert, so the population is concentrated into areas with water and farmable land."

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           Date: Tue, 21 Jun 2005 09:56:03 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx seems legitimately surprised, "Really? I wouldn't have thought you'd be from a city. -You're so calm. My mother and I lived in the country, but not too far from the village. I hung out at the cities though. Met a lot of interesting people." She takes another large bite.
           Lladdwyr seems nonplussed for a moment. "Calm?" he questions at last. He grins. "I've been described many ways, but I don't think that's been one of them. Were the people in the cities of your shadow *not* calm? I'm not sure what you mean by that."

           Date: Tue, 21 Jun 2005 11:36:07 -0500
           From: Lladd
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           "Really? Hm. No, as a whole I wouldn't describe them as calm. Where I come from the country folk are calmer, they are hard workers, they seem to take their time and rarely rush, yet they're never late. While most the people I've seen in our cities are late, always in a rush, too busy and focused on whatever to be aware of what's going on around them.
           They always seem to be overcharged with energy - I've seen very few who can sit still." She takes a quick pause to gulp some OJ, "One reason I never moved out of Mom's house and into the city... it wares off on you after a while. I prefer to live in the quietness of the country and just visit." She grins. "They have great places to visit."
           "Oh, I see what you mean now." He pauses to think about that, letting both of them continue with their meals for a couple minutes. "That's really interesting. I've never really thought about it, but one difference might simply be, um... approach to life. In a desert environment, people have to keep some things foremost in mind, specifically conservation of resources. That seems to include things like time and energy, too. That has been changing, though." He looks sad. "As for me, I meditate and exercise regularly, and have never been in a profession that requires rushing about."

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           Date: Tue, 21 Jun 2005 16:38:18 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx nods her understanding as she loads her fork. "A desert. Wow. Yeah, I could see how that would impact society. I come from a highly wooded area - plenty of resources." She takes a bite, "What kind of exercise do you do? I don't remember if you told me yet since we've met. Talk about a busy and hectic 24 hours!"
           Lladd laughs. "No kidding! One of the perils of traveling between Shadows. Um, the fact that I rock climb might not be surprising. There is a particularly desolate range of mountains near where I grew up. Dancing sometimes. You?"

           Date: Wed, 22 Jun 2005 07:54:06 -0500
           From: Lladd
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
"I dance too, but I haven't tried rock climbing yet. I usually go jogging and I do a little kick-boxing."
           He nods, and takes a few minutes to clean off his plate. "What do you think of the Family so far?" he asks curiously, picking up his juice and taking a drink.

           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           Date: Wed, 22 Jun 2005 14:28:02 -0500 (CDT)
           From: Lladd
Onyx pauses before answering. "That�s actually a tough question." Another pause, "This doesn�t seem like a family to me. More like a community with the social interactions you get in that situation. Some neighbors you tolerate, some you might dislike, others you really like and enjoy hang�n with." She nods, "Yeah, I like that analogy."
           He nods. "I can see that. But the analogy breaks down when you consider that you're stuck with us regardless of whether you like it or not." He gives her a smile that could best be described as bleak. "In a community, often you have the option to move away and try to find something better. But with Family... well, you're stuck, I'm afraid."

           Date: Wed, 22 Jun 2005 18:41:32 -0500
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           From: Lladd
"True. But there is always Shadow. I had no idea about this side of the family and how large it was until I came here. -A lot of years without contact. Also, 'shadow'. The possible places to go seem endless."
           "Yes," Lladdwyr replies, his expression pensive. "Yet I always had the impression from Brand that - though he might go any conceivable place - Amber is never far from his mind." He shrugs. "Someday I'm sure we'll both be able to explore wherever we will in Shadow."

           Date: Thu, 23 Jun 2005 07:26:31 -0500
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           From: Lladd
"Yeah, as it is I haven't even been able to explore Amber. I know about three rooms out of an entire castle," She gives a short laugh.
           He laughs. "The timing of your arrival wasn't good for exploration, was it? We'll have to see what happens when next you go there. Who knows? Maybe you brought the invasion!" he suggests with mock horror. "But it's good that you'll have a chance to see the Courts."

           Date: Fri, 24 Jun 2005 22:12:01 -0500
           Subject: Re: Lladdwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
           From: Lladd
           Onyx chuckles as she gathers the last of her food onto her fork. "I'm looking forward to seeing the Courts. I still can't believe I was sleeping so heavily that I didn't hear them come in to try and wake me.
           I'm hoping to head out pretty soon."
           "As you said, yesterday was a very long day. No doubt you just needed to catch up while you had the opportunity," Lladd observes. "I hope you have a good visit, and you can tell me all about what to watch out for."

           Date: Tue, 28 Jun 2005 08:31:39 -0500
           From: Lladd
           Subject: Re: laddwyr and Onyx - Breakfast in Texorami
Onyx smiles, "Yeah. When I get back I'll let you know what's what. Or at least my understanding of it."
           "Sounds like a plan," he agrees. His plate and juice glass now empty, he gathers up his things to take them into the kitchen.

           Date: Wed, 29 Jun 2005 17:41:47 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Onyx
           Onyx isn't too far behind him with her empty dishes. As she passes she quickly says good morning/goodbye to Vialle and Jenna. Then she heads out to the coral and it only takes a minute or two to find a horse that likes her and doesn't shy away. Once that is accomplished, she rides out and pulls out Martin's Trump, following his instructions.
           She takes a second to remember every detail of how it felt when Lladd brought her into the conversation with Dad. Once she has that experience recalled, trying not to overdue it (she understands this is a "mind link thing"), she concentrates on the card of Martin, concentrates on his being or essence as she knows it, and awaits for that slight tingly feeling before leveling off her concentration.
           There is a short moment where she feels that maybe she was doing something wrong because there was no response. But just as quickly as the thought occurred to her, the doubt left as Martin answers.
           ~Yes? Onyx! Glad to see you. Are you ready to join us, then?~ he asks.

Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos

           Date: Thu, 30 Jun 2005 11:22:28 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
~Of course.~ She says with a grin (not outloud though, she wants to do this Trump thing right). Knowing this communication is mind to mind, she tries to block her emotion of extreme happiness of her success at Trump without formal training.
           The terrain hasn't changed much, it's still dessert. But instead of reds browns and golds the colors are blues, greens and yellows. The temperature is also much cooler.
           Martin dismounts from his horse and holds out his hand. He then leads Onyx and her horse through the sparkly rainbow ripple in the air.
           Amethyst sits atop her mount a few yards away, watching.
           "Glad you could join us." Martin says with a big grin as he mounts up once again.

           Date: Thu, 30 Jun 2005 23:37:08 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
Onyx smiles, "My pleasure. I'm just sorry I was too tired and couldn't come with you earlier," she says as she mounts her horse. "Hello again, Amethyst."
           "Hello Onyx. I'm glad you could rejoin us. I made this for you." She reaches into her bag, drawing out a Trump case which she opens and removes one card from. Replacing the case she hands the card to Onyx. It is an image of Amethyst painting at an easel in what looks to be a library.

           Date: Fri, 1 Jul 2005 21:10:24 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
"Thanks Amethyst, but you've already given me a trump card of yourself."
           "I apologize, I had forgotten." She replaces it in her case. "Ah, forgive me, I had meant to give you this." She withdraws the extra one of Onyx she had created and hands it to her. "How absent-minded of me."

           Date: Sat, 2 Jul 2005 12:38:51 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
           "Always a good idea to have a spare." Martin interjects. "Let's get moving again shall we." he says as he spurs his horse forward once more.
"Sure," Onyx says to Martin as she takes the card from Amethyst. Then, smiling, she says to Amethyst, "Wow, Thank you. I don't have any of myself to give to anyone. This is great."
           "Maybe you could get Amy to make a few more for you when we're through." Martin suggests.

           Date: Mon, 11 Jul 2005 13:56:55 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Amethyst
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chao
           "I would not mind, though it would take some time to complete them." Amethyst replies.

           Date: Wed, 13 Jul 2005 02:49:40 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
"Yeah, if you wouldn't mind and have the time, it would be great to have some extras." Onyx says.
           "Good." Martin says sounding satisfied.

** Time Jump a few days later **

           The current shadow is dark and dreary. There hasn't been much in the way of excitement or even conversation. Onyx is reflecting on this fact when she gets the odd feeling something or someone is watching her.

           Date: Thu, 14 Jul 2005 17:47:39 - Tue, 19 Jul 2005 21:10:51 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos [Onyx]
She looks to Martin then Amy to see if it is them, while trying to 'sense' which direction the stare is coming from with the help of her necklace's powers.
Martin is intent on shifting shadow and Amy is apparently lost in thought.
From the necklace, Onyx gets no sense of danger. But it indicates that there was indeed something watching.
And as quickly as it was noticed, it's gone again.
~Strange~ Onyx thinks to herself.
           Martin has stopped riding and is looking around. "Do you think this looks familiar?" he asks.
           And in fact it does. It has almost felt like a circle for the last couple of hours.

           Date: Thu, 21 Jul 2005 19:34:59 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
"Yeah, now that you mention it. It does."
           "Wait here." Martin says, and before either of you can protest, he has spurred his horse into a full on run. He disappears, after a moment, into the horizon, only to ride up from behind a few minutes later.
           "Bugger." is all he says as he reigns in his mount.

           Date: Fri, 22 Jul 2005 22:02:15 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos

"What's going on?" Onyx asks.
           "We're caught in some kind of Pattern barrier. These things are common close to Chaos." he replies.
           Martin looks from Onyx to Amy then back again. "I guess we'll have to back track and go around somehow." he shrugs.

           Date: Fri, 22 Jul 2005 22:36:20 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
"A Pattern barrier? ... So, it blocks out those who are attuned to Pattern?"
           "Yep." Martin replies then turns to Amethyst. "Do you have any other ideas for getting around it, Amy?" he asks.

           Date: Tue, 9 Aug 2005 15:45:19 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos

           Amethyst is thoughtful for a moment then replies, "No. It looks like backtracking is our best option." she says shaking her head slightly.
           Martin nods and is about to say something when he gets that far off look associated with a Trump call.

           Date: Tue, 9 Aug 2005 22:11:13 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
           Martin is cautious at first but after a moment, he relaxes and smiles. "It's Vendric, our guide, he says he can pull us through. Are we ready?"
           "I'm ready." Amethyst responds.

           Date: Wed, 10 Aug 2005 16:01:33 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: Amethyst, Onyx and Martin - The Road to Chaos
"Always", says Onyx.
           "Good." Martin grins.
           "Oh. He says we have to dismount and lead the horses through." The future king says as he dismounts his steed.
           Martin then holds out his hand and Amethyst takes it. Stepping forward she disappears, followed by her horse, into the shimmering rainbow that is Trump. Martin holds his hand out to Onyx next and she takes it.

The Courts of Chaos

           Date: Wed, 10 Aug 2005 17:22:22 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: The Courts of Chaos
           Martin nodded and turned his attention back to his group for second then he took Vendric's outstretched hand.
           The first to step through is a young lady standing at barely 5'1" tall, with dark black hair and lavender eyes, she is strikingly beautiful. She gives Vendric a short nod as she moves out of the way for the next one through.
           Next is another young woman. Lightly tanned skin and about 5'8" in height. Her eyes are pale blue and her hair is wavy mid-length brownish red. She carries herself with confidence as her body is lean and muscular, yet still curvy.
           Finally Martin steps through leading his horse. He gives Vendric's hand a solid shake before releasing it.
           "So, this is it, huh?" he says as he takes a quick glance around.

           Date: Wed, 10 Aug 2005 19:50:32 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Vendric had changed his clothing for something more appropriate to meet a King with. So Martin and his guests see Vendric dressed in black from neck to toe, black fitted jacket, black fitted breeches, black dress boots, and black gloves. The only color on his clothing was a serpentine twist of scarlet and silver running up the outside of his pants, matching delicate scarlet & silver thin trim on his cuffs and collar. His long white hair has been pulled back into a long tail down his back, where its silver tips can be just seen as he moves to return Martin's handshake. He is handsome in a cold almost inhuman way -- with his metallic gold or is it silver eyes that watch them with what would almost be consider reptilian stillness. He is wearing a slender longsword with a baskethilt on his right hip. All that black encased a slender but muscle tall body.
           The room around them looks to be workout room all done in black stone, white mats, weapon racks, and various martial training dummies. The room lighting is odd, which is one of the first things that would be noticed - �tis like the very air is illuminated.
           "Welcome to the Courts of Chaos. This is my personal workroom, which is part of my personal quarters of The Ways of Mandor. Can I get you any refreshments or show you to someplace where you can freshen up or both.", Vendric says in his surprisingly sexy but cold tenor voice.

           Date: Fri, 12 Aug 2005 19:35:14 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos

Onyx looks around taking in the room, then to Vendric, "Thank you for the offer, but no thanks, I'm fine." Then to both Martin & Vendric, "Unless I need to change into something more appropriate for the Courts, seeing how we are no longer on the road." She motions to her attire: leather boats, faded tight blue jeans, open flannel shirt and black tank.
           Martin gives short but appropriate bow. "Thank you cousin, your hospitality honors us." Then as Onyx spoke, Martin looks as though he remembered he was not alone. "Forgive me. May I present Amethyst, Princess of Amber, Daughter of Prince Corwin of Amber and Queen Moire of Rebma."
           Amethyst delivers a deep and proper curtsey. "Lord cousin. It is an honor and I welcome the chance to freshen up." she says regally.
           Martin turns to Onyx. "Princess of Amber, Onyx Maharie."

           Date: Fri, 12 Aug 2005 21:01:32 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Vendric bows to Onyx, "Princess Onyx of Amber." Then bows to Amethyst, "Princess Amethyst, Daughter of Prince Corwin of Amber and Queen Moire of Rebma." He continues as half turns and gestures toward what was once a blank wall and now shows an elegant archway leading out of the room and down a black stone hallway, "It is a honor and pleasure to meet you. With your somewhat unexpected arrival, I have yet to inform various individuals of your arrival. If I may, lead you to a place were you can wait in comfort and refresh up. I will see that those that need to know you are here are so informed. Please" The last word was accented with an elegant bow to them.

           Date: Mon, 15 Aug 2005 17:37:53 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
Onyx smiles and nods when Vendric addressed her, then waits to follow the lead of the others.
           "Certainly." Martin replies and falls in behind Amethyst and Onyx as they follow Vendric.

           Date: Mon, 15 Aug 2005 16:54:39 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Vendric leads them down a hallway, which bends almost oddly up or is it down, hard to say only that it does, and finally to a door which he opens revealing a nice parlor with several doors off of it. It�s all decorated in elegant black stone, wood, silver work and what color accents there are in scarlet. The horses had been left behind but any that glanced will see black, silver and scarlet clad servants looking mostly human, carefully tending to them, and removing the various saddle bags and such.
           "Through the door on the left is a powder room. Food and beverage in the sideboard are safe to drink in my home. I would highly recommend caution outside of Mandor Ways, unless you know the individual you are visiting. Poison is the number one way to assassinate in the Courts. Followed by duels.", Vendric says as he gestures about the room pointing out the various features.

           Date: Tue, 16 Aug 2005 19:42:12 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos

Under her breath, one could barely hear a sarcastic, "Lovely" at the mention of assassinations, escape from Onyx's lips.
           Vendric looked over at Onyx at her comment, "I most certainly agree. I would also advice thinking carefully about what you say before you say it, in the Courts, words are weapons too. And they can kill just as easily."
           "I need to contact Lady Dara and let her know you are here. Do you have anything you wish me to say to her at this time?" Vendric asked after turning to look at Martin.

           Date: Thu, 18 Aug 2005 14:13:11 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           "Hmm? What?" Martin had been eyeing the sideboard. "No, no messages at the moment." he replies with a smile.
           Amethyst politely excuses herself to the powder room.
           Vendric nods to Martin then pulled out Dara's trump and concentrated on it.
           After a moment, he takes a step forward and dissappears in a shimmering rainbow of Trump energy.

           Date: Sat, 20 Aug 2005 18:14:38 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
Onyx, uncharacteristically quiet, wanders slowly around the room admiring the decor waiting until the powder room is free so she can take her turn to change cloths.
           As soon as Vendric had Trumped away, Martin went to the sidebar and mixed two drinks. He offers one to Onyx.

           Date: Mon, 22 Aug 2005 23:46:50 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
Onyx smiles, "Thanks. I can use this." After a pause and a gulp she seems to relax a bit, "What do you have to do here in the Courts?"
           "Pass some test to become king apparently." Martin shrugs. "I don't know. Great grandpa Dworkin said I had to come. He was pretty vague as usual."

           Date: Sat, 27 Aug 2005 16:34:50 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
"Mm," she takes another swallow of her drink. "Well, if there is anything I can do to help... even help you relax during this trip..." she winks. She seems more herself with apparently no one in the room with them.
           Martin grins and nods. "I'm sure there will be opportunity." he says with a wink as Amy steps out of the powder room. She doesn't say a word but goes over to the bags and pulls out her sketch pad and pencils. She takes a seat on one of the chairs and begins to sketch the room.
           Martin simply raises an eyebrow then turns back to you and gestures to the powder room. "After you." he says with a short bow.

           Date: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 10:57:25 - 18:54:17 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos

           "Thanks." After finishing her drink in one last gulp, she enters the powder room to use the facilities and change into more appropriate clothing. She decides to pick something that is understated, yet flattering and fitting of royalty. She doesn't know this group of people yet and she wants to play it safe for once.
           Onyx takes her time deciding, but when she has made up her mind, she is confident that her dress will not cause a big todo.
           When she returns to the other room, Vendric has returned as well.
           Upon entering, Vendric notes that Onyx must be in the powder room as it is only Amethyst and Martin in the room.
           Amethyst is busy sketching the room and Martin is filling a glass. "All taken care of, cousin?" Martin asks.
           "Yes, Queen Dara, will see you when you have all had a chance to refresh yourself." Vendric replies politely to Martin.
           He glances over at Amethyst, and lifts an eyebrow, and says to her," If you are doing a trump sketch of this room, please be aware that it will not work. Only direct family members are allowed to trump in or out of Mandor Ways."
           When Onyx returns, she hears Vendric mentioning, Only direct relatives Trumping in and out of Mandor Ways, and then Amy replies;
           "Don't worry, Vendric. I'm well aware." She says almost condescendingly. "This is just a sketch, nothing more." she returns her attention to the pad on her lap. "I happen to find this decor ... appealing." she adds with her head tilted to one side, still staring at her sketch pad.

           Date: Sat, 3 Sep 2005 20:31:48 - Mon, 5 Sep 2005 19:35:32 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Vendric smiles at 'Amy', "Thank you for the complement, I decorated my chambers in the Ways, myself."
"Yes, it is nice." Onyx adds, now changed into something a lot more Courtly rather her previous jeans, flannel, boots and pig-tail braids. She heads over to the bar to get another drink.
           "Is everyone refreshed or do you wish more time?" Vendric asked politely a few minutes later, from where he had been waiting patiently by the parlor. Silently observing them all the while.

           Date: Fri, 16 Sep 2005 21:07:25 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Martin finshes the last of his drink then shrugs. "I'm ready." He looks to Amy and Onyx.
           Amy indicates she is ready by putting her pad and pencil back in her bag.

           Date: Fri, 16 Sep 2005 19:27:17 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           "Excellent, then if you will follow me, I will take you to Queen Dara, and on the way, I will point out some of the sites of Thelbane," Vendric said politely to them as he gestured towards the door.

           Date: Sat, 17 Sep 2005 18:33:10 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Martin gestures for the women to go ahead and follow Vendric. Amethyst does, so Martin waits for Onyx to proceed.
Onyx smiles and follows Amethyst.

           Date: Mon, 19 Sep 2005 18:32:34 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Vendric leads them out of the parlor and further down the hall away from the exercise room that he had met them in. It was a short walk, around a turn in the hallway and what felt like working their way up, though there was no stairs or ramps to indicate such. Just an odd sense of moving up -- maybe the hallway itself was moving.
           To a heavy door, guarded by two 7 ft tall demons clad in black and scarlet armor, complete with great swords and wings. They gave Vendric a nod as he approached. The door shimmered and was gone and before them lay a wide ledge, which looked like it was meant to land on -- for there was quite literally nothing under it or beyond it.
           That of course gave them their first look at the chaosite swirl of light, colors, bands of black, dancing moons and other things that was the 'sky' of the above Courts of Chaos.
           Something that looked like it was a glossmar thread composed of colored light 'unfurled' from nowhere and attached itself to edge of the ledge, it was about a dozen feet across and extended out beyond towards a great sprawling 'palace'.
           Vendric says, "It�s but a short Filmy to the Palace from here. Please step on, it is safe." To demonstrate he steps on the flimy, and gestures so that the sides of it furled up enough to provide something much like a railing.

           Date: Sat, 24 Sep 2005 13:58:36 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
As soon as they stepped outside Onyx gazed around at the view with curiosity and amazement. Once Vendric described and demonstrated the Filmy, her eyes light up with excitement... She approaches it, looks at it then Vendric, grins and steps on following his example.
           Martin waits for Amy to follow Vendric, then he steps on too. Martin is also trying to take in the swirling and changing environment.

           Date: Sun, 25 Sep 2005 19:30:55 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Once everyone steps onto the filmy, the end attached to the ledge/doorway unattaches and rolls up to create a rear railing to the filmy. Then the filmy moves or does it, an odd almost sense of displacement. It didn't help the buildings if you wanted to call the various towers, domed structures, palaces, giant spiderwebs? and those are the ones that were recognizable. But as Vendric had said, the trip was short, the filmy dropped down to another railless balcony and attached itself. Guarding the doors to the balcony was two more demons though these were clad in almost form fitting black armor and carried long nasty looking bardiches.
           A human looking individual, dressed suspiciously like an English butler, bowed to Vendric and the others, "Lord Vendric, Prince [or is he a King now] Martin, Princess Onyx and Princess Amethyst. Welcome to the Courts of Chaos, and the Palace of Queen Dara. Come with me please."

           Date: Sun, 2 Oct 2005 16:47:01 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
As they exited the filmy, if one looked at Onyx, they'd see a grin and a twinkle in the eye equal to the look a thrill-seeker would have had after finding and experiencing a thrill.
           The man turns and walks as stiffly as a butler might. He reaches the doors and throws one open and announces the group.
           "Lord Vendric of the Courts! Prince Martin of Amber! Princess Amethyst of Rema! Lady Onyx of Amber!" he calls in a voice surprisingly deep and rumblely. It almost sounds like a nest of oversize honey bees.
           The butler then gestures for you all to enter. Martin takes two steps then goes down to one knee. He's done his homework on this protocol at least. Amethyst follows suit.

           Date: Sun, 2 Oct 2005 17:00:11 -0700 - Sat, 8 Oct 2005 12:06:30 -0400
           From: Vendric & GM
           Subject: Re: The Courts of Chaos
           Vendric bowed appropriately to Queen Dara from where he stood off to the side. This was Dara and Martin's time now.
For once Onyx catches on to protocol and follows Amethyst and Martin in royal manners.
           The woman sitting on the serpent styled throne is thin and pale but not at all sickly. Her dark eyes sweep over the group as they enter. The cool calculating stare makes you feel as though you have been weighed, measured and catalogued in a matter of seconds.
           It seems like countless hours pass before she speaks.
           "Rise. Come forward." the queen's voice is smooth and somewhat melodious.
           Martin and Amethyst obey.

The Queen of Chaos

           Date: Sat, 8 Oct 2005 13:58:00 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
As does Onyx.
           Queen Dara studies the group once more. After a moment she turns her attention to Vendric.
           "Thank you, Vendric. You will be notified when your services are needed again." she says curtly. And without even a wave of her hand as dismissal she turns her gaze back to Martin and the two women.

           Date: Sat, 8 Oct 2005 11:22:54 -0700 (PDT)
           From: Vendric
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
           Vendric bowed to her, even though she had turned her attention away, protocol and respect away first. Then he quietly withdrew from the room.

           Date: Sat, 8 Oct 2005 15:40:20 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
           When Vendric is gone, Dara speaks again. "Alright. Let's cut the crap, shall we." she stands and comes down the dais to stand in front of Martin.
           "Dworkin claims, that is, Dworkin's voice, claims we are to seal a pact of peace between Amber and The Courts." she says skeptically.
           "But I thought there was already a pact between us." Martin replies calmly, if not sounding a bit confused.
           "Exactly." the queen answers.
           "I'm told we will be a joint power in the near future. Any ideas?" she asks.
           Martin starts to shake his head then stops. "It didn't make any sense at first, but he said something about that when he told me to come here." Martin admits.
           "Nor was he clear about the girls." she shakes her head. "All he would say was one of them would be helpful and the other has yet to be determined." Dara says as she gives Amethyst and Onyx another critical look.

           Date: Fri, 14 Oct 2005 14:24:20 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos

Onyx says quietly and off-handedly to Amethyst, "Yet to be determined... that'd be me". Then she seems thoughtful. ~she has an idea of "drawing" a pact and possibly joining powers, the symbols anyway, but she says nothing. Knowing that her experienced Amber friends, and certainly a Queen, would have better and probably more successful ideas.~
           Amethyst does not respond but Martin gives you a quick sideways glance but it's too late, Dara noticed.
           "Actually, child." the queen remarks as her icy stare turns to Onyx. "You may underestimate your contribution." she stares at you a moment longer.
           "See, I know your father." she says with a small incline of her head and the slightest twitch of a smile at the corner of her mouth.

           Date: Fri, 14 Oct 2005 16:51:13 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
~Shit~ She thinks at noticing Martin's glance and with Dara's first remark. It's a subtle thing, but it almost appears that Onyx stands a little prouder when Dara mentions knowing Brand.
           Martin and Amethyst both raise eyebrows and glance at Onyx. Dara continues to watch the three of you for a moment then she reaches some kind of decision as she gives a short nod then stands. "Come." She says as she heads behind the throne. "Let's go somewhere and get to know each other better." she says over her shoulder.

           Date: Fri, 21 Oct 2005 10:09:55 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
Onyx follows the group.
           The Queen leads you through a doorway into a very lavishly decorated room. The walls are covered with paintings and tapestries. The floor is carpeted with a thick and lush material with a seemingly random pattern of circles and triangles of varying size and color. The furniture is very inviting with its many cushions and pillows.
           Dara indicates the furniture with a word and a gesture. "Sit." She commands casually.

           Date: Fri, 21 Oct 2005 15:09:38 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
Onyx chooses a small couch (assuming one is there) and slouches comfortably in it taking in the details of the room.
           As soon as everyone has settled in, three humanoid forms enter the room from behind one of the floor to ceiling tapestries. The servants, they must be servants, are over six feet tall and very thin. Their skin is an ash-gray color and their large dark eyes are almost insect like. They wear no clothing and are devoid of hair. And each of them have a set of four arms. They each carry a large tray, they place them on the low round table off to one side. Two of the beings leave after removing the tray covers. The one remaining picks up a glass in each hand and offers one to each of you.

           Date: Sat, 22 Oct 2005 09:48:34 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
Onyx tries not to stare as she graciously accepts the glass; Trying to remember her best manners.
           There are a few silent moments before Martin makes a noise in his throat. "Your Majesty, I'm not even sure how to address you, I understand the need for customs and protocol and all that, but with all due respect, why do *you* believe we are here?" he asks.
           Without hesitation Dara replies, "To secure relations for the new power in Amber."
           Martin nods. "So I've been told. Has Dworkin said when he would meet us here?" he asks.
           The queen shakes her head. "No. And to be perfectly honest, I have no idea what to do with you till then." she replies.
           Amethyst speaks up and asks, "Are supposed to sit here and wait?"
           Dara glances at Amy but only gives a small dismissive shrug.

           Date: Sun, 23 Oct 2005 13:07:51 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
At an attempt at small talk, and maybe to break the ice, Onyx asks Dara, "So how do you know my father?"
           The Queen stares at Onyx for a few seconds then smiles. Onyx knows the smile, it's a predatory smile.
           "Why, we are friends and colleagues, of course." she replies.

           Date: Thu, 27 Oct 2005 19:01:46 - Fri, 28 Oct 2005 20:42:09 -0400
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
Onyx just smiles in response, deciding to let it go.
           Dara continues to stare at Onyx with that predatory smile. "He never mentioned you." she says with a bat of her eye.
Onyx replies sweetly meeting her stare [OOC: Onyx sweet to someone besides a guy... hmmm!], "Well, as far as I'm aware he never new I was born 'till recently."
           Martin looks uncomfortable, but he holds his tongue as Dara speaks.
           "I'm not surprised." the Queen gives a rather haughty sniff. "He was quite the ladies man." she gives a wink and a nod.

           Date: Tue, 1 Nov 2005 22:06:54 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
Onyx nods and nonchalantly responds, "Given what I know about him, that makes sense."
           Dara looses the smile and you could swear there is a twitch at the corner of her eye. The silence is thick until Martin makes a sound in his throat.
           The queen blinks and turns to him. She is about to say something but is interrupted by a deep booming voice out of the thin air.
           Sounding casual, the voice says, "Good. You're all here."
           Amethyst gives a little start but recovers quickly. The queen rolls her eyes as though it was overdramatic. And Martin gives a sigh of relief, believing he's been spared.

           Date: Fri, 4 Nov 2005 10:09:01 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos

Onyx relaxes the tiniest bit and waits for the voice to continue.
           "I know you all have questions. But I don't have time to answer them. So the information I am about to give you will have to do." the voice says.
           "Yes I am, was, Dworkin. I am still me, to a degree, I think. Anyway, the basics go like this, I have merged with the Jewel of Judgment or the Eye of the Serpent, depending on how you want to look at it. This is, apparently, part of my destiny." You get the feeling if there was a body to go with the voice, shoulders would have shrugged and eyes would have rolled.
           "My destiny is intertwined with each of yours. Martin, you will be king in Amber and I will be your badge of office. Dara, I will be with you as you continue to rule the Courts but you will not do it alone. Amethyst, you will be staying as Queen Dara's liaison." he pauses.
           "Onyx, your role is still unclear. It has something to do with your father, though." Dworkin adds.

           Date: Sat, 5 Nov 2005 11:37:01 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos
Onyx was intensely listening to all that was said, while watching the others. Once Dworkin has finished, she gives a small nod.
           There is an uncomfortable silence for a moment or two before Dworkin speaks again.
           "I have not been able to reach your father, Onyx. Is there some way you, or maybe your brother, can reach him?" he asks almost hesitantly.

           Date: Fri, 18 Nov 2005 16:16:25 - Sat, 19 Nov 2005 11:44:11 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos

"I could try to trump him," She offers.
           There is a hesitant silence then, "Do you mean your father or your brother?" the voice that is Dworkin asks.
"Either," Onyx answers with a shrug.
           "Ah. Good. Well go ahead and do that then. We'll wait." Dworkin replies rather cheerily.

The Queen of Chaos - Trump Call

           Date: Thu, 24 Nov 2005 08:42:00 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos - Trump Call
Onyx walks off to a corner of the room that is farthest away from everyone, then with her back facing them, pulls out the trump of Brand, and attempts to make contact like she did with Martin's earlier.
           There is a couple minutes of delay this time, but your father does answer.
           ~Good. You are learning quickly,~ he gives a nod. ~Now, what is it you need from me?~ he asks.

           Date: Mon, 12 Dec 2005 20:05:51 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos - Trump Call
~Thank you.~ Onyx seems to appreciate the praise. With a touch of annoyance, ~I seem to be a messenger lately.~ Then, good humorly, she smirks, ~Dara sends her love,~ then more seriously, ~and Dworkin wants to speak with you.~
           An eyebrow twitches briefly. ~I see.~ he replies dryly. ~Well, Master Dworkin knows where to find me if he wishes. ~ your father gives a small shake of his head. ~So, I see you made it to the Courts. How is Dara treating you?~ Brand changes the subject.

           Date: Tue, 13 Dec 2005 21:12:22 -0500
           From: GM
           Subject: Re: The Queen of Chaos - Trump Call
~Dworkin said he couldn't reach you. As for Dara,~ Onyx rolls her eyes, ~she made it clear she doesn't like me much. And I'm fairly certain she tried to get me upset at you.~
           He grins at the last. ~That sounds like Dara to me.~ Brand lets his smile fade and his expression becomes puzzlement. He frowns as he speaks. ~Onyx, I need you to think about what he said. Was it, 'he can't reach me', or was it, 'he can't get through' ? I want you to be absolutely sure.~

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