As we entered the dining hall, Matholim approached us and smiled. "Good! There you are! Everyone seems to disappear in turn. I was a bit worried." With that he glanced very quickly at Ryoden. Like I had maybe finished the job?

 

He sighed and looked around. "Speaking of disappearing, have any of you seen my father? He seems to have run off too. And just when almost everyone else is here."

 

I shrugged, "He was talking with Zeta earlier. I don't doubt that this party has kept him very busy."

 

Looking around the great hall I sighed, "I hope to speak with him as well sometime. Does he have a secretary that schedules his time?"

 

I had meant this as something of a sardonic joke but sure enough he had one and I had a window of time scheduled with the sorcerer king.

 

Andrew said quietly to Ryoden "Have you met Lord Mandor and Lady Eleanor yet?"


To which Ryoden replied “Hmmm-- oh, let me think... Oh! Yes! I met Mandor. The white haired one, isn't he? And he had a lady with him. Maybe that was Eleanor. Why? Should I meet them better?"


Andrew smiled, "No, I just didn't know if you'd met them or not. Anyone else you want to be introduced to while you're here?"


Ryoden put on her best deadpan face. "Is the Unicorn about?"


Andrew suppressed a laugh and snapped his fingers, "Serpent's teeth. I knew there was somebody I forgot to invite. Can you ever forgive me, Lady Ryoden?"

 

I love wordplay and decided to up the ante on Ryoden’s request to visit the Unicorn.


I turned my head in Ryoden’s direction, and with equal seriousness said, "The Unicorn is never about. The Unicorn is rampant. Just look at any tapestry."


She looked about. "So it is... So it is... But I was hoping for the more flesh and blood version. Too bad Andrew was so remiss. Oh sigh... I guess I'll have to make due with my new commodity producing guys, huh?"

 

Ryoden paused. "I've met the king of Chaos, and Corwin, and Mandor, and some lady that was attached to him... And you guys, of course, and Math... You know, I haven't met the king of Amber yet... Or this mysterious enemy of ours."


Andrew shook his head "I'm not sure I want to meet this enemy, whoever or whatever it is. As for the king, we're bound to see him if not meet him when we reach Amber."


My opinion of Andrew went up a notch. I wasn’t to thrilled about meeting our enemy either. Privately I thought the day was coming though. What to do when that happened was some source of worry for me. Random was creamed by that guy and Bleys barely escaped on his own feet. If I ever had to deal with somebody like it would have to be by something other then force of arms.


Ryoden looked at Andrew curiously. "Well... how are we going to deal with them if we don't meet them? I mean, we can't just guess... Well, we could, but that gets so messy, and I bet these Amberites types are real sticklers for being neat."


That comment irritated me. I’d sworn featly to Amber and I didn’t much care for what Ryoden was saying. For being a technical wizard she seemed to also to have zero understanding of social grace. Was she raised by herself? I decided maybe I needed to separate myself from her for a bit before the discussion went much further and I would have to take notice, but not without first providing her a gentle warning.


I looked askance at Ryoden, "Yeah, I hear the younger ones are really touchy as well."

 

I frowned momentarily, "Hey! My drink is gone, I'll be back momentarily."

 

I slipped away in the direction of whatever passed for the refreshment stand.


I ordered some Absinthe. A wild, bitter concoction made from wormwood that in sufficient concentrations could cause hallucinations. In smaller doses it’s affects are something akin to nitrous oxide. Sounds tend to echo with reverberations. Just the sort of thing I needed to loosen up.

 

Spying Mandor and Onora talking some distance away I walked over to where they were talking. I waited silent until a moment's pause in conversation and then spoke with a slight (so as not to spill my noxiously looking green drink) bow, "My Lord, my lady, how do you do? I am Flavel of Amber."

 

Mandor gave a small half-bow, "Your highness. I am Margrave Mandor Sawall. This is my daughter Onora. It is a pleasure to meet you."

 

"Likewise I'm sure. I've only recently become aware of House Sawall but I've been uniformly impressed with everything I've so far seen."

 

Mandor smiled, "My thanks. Your father has often spoken well of your achievements." He smiled to Onora and me, "Now, I must talk to Lady Antonia." He nodded to the two of us and then moved away and joined Anthony and Antonia in their discussion.

 

I cast a brief glance at the departing Margrave, /Achievements? What achievements? I hope Anthony hasn't been puffing me up into something I'm not.../

 

Another thought came to my mind. How closely had I been observed whilst in shadow?

 

I wondered briefly at the conference of elder Sawalls as I sipped my bitter drink. /What would they discuss that Onora and I are not privy to? A quick conference. Fast exchange of information. Splitting up and reforming. Reconnaissance maybe? To what would they reconnoiter? Styx, I should never have left the main hall./

 

Turning to Onora, I smiled engagingly. "Are you also then a member of House Sawall?"

 

The conversation was minimal and I learned little of Onora.

 

Harrison, Corwin’s secretary rescued me with his approach, "Excuse me, my Lord, the King will see You now."

 

I nodded to Onora before turning away. "Thank you Harrison." I motioned slightly, "I am indebted to your diligence. Please lead on."

 

Harrison smiled and led me into a side-room. Corwin was pouring himself a brandy. Harrison discretely withdrew, closing the door. Corwin smiled in my direction, "May I offer you some brandy?”

Moving a hand out from underneath my cloak I displayed a glass in my hand. Smiling I said, "Thanks but I'm still nursing my Absinthe." My smile turned crooked, "It's been that kind of day."

 

Corwin returned my crooked smile, "I agree completely. Please, be seated." Corwin sat down in a large chair. "So what is it I can do for you?"

 

Sitting in the proffered chair, I leaned back and relaxed. "The hour is late, so I will come straight to the point. After the Funeral, but before the negotiations begin, I would like to present a guest speaker to the assembled royalty. This speaker has information that both parties need hear."

 

Corwin asks quietly "Who's the speaker, if I may enquire?" He then sipped the brandy as he waited.

 

With simple aplomb I stated, "Shadonia Livia Caesar."

 

Corwin shrugged "Fine. You've given me a name. Who's the woman?"

 

Amazing how a “If I may inquire…” can so quickly change to a series of pointed questions. Still I couldn’t afford to alienate him and he seemed extremely close to my father so I felt best to humor him. Besides, most the information I was holding was going to be distributed wholesale as soon as Shado had her talk with the nobility.

 

My eyes narrowed slightly and I took a sip of the green liquor in my glass. Ill concealing a grimace from the bitter beverage I said, "She's from a different realm. What we call Amber she knows as the Court of the White Flame. Activity in her realm has been having an impact on our realm. This impact will be increasing soon. Her briefing will cover this and more. I could explain everything I know but her knowledge goes much deeper and doubtless many of the questions you would entertain, I would not be able to explain to your satisfaction."

 

I set my glass on the nearby table and folded my hands. "I would not request this pre-hearing if I didn't think it was important. Her information will have a direct impact on the negotiations."

 

Corwin nodded "Fine, bring the lady along. Just tell Harrison when you arrive back so she gets a room."

 

I smiled, my gaze drifting in any direction other then Corwin's, "Thank you. Yes. I will do that."

 

I coughed slightly and settled deeper into the chair. "That was my major reason for seeing you. Things seem to be happening with much speed of late. It will get worse before it get's better."

 

I decided I should at least carry the conversation forward onto something more cheery before departing. It wouldn’t do to be continually associated with…business.

 

I paused before changing the subject, "Incidently, I wish to extend my appreciation for your hosting this party. I found aegis within your garden maze. Such direction within labrythine ways was a useful solace to me."

 

Corwin smiled genuinely, "I'm glad you found it helpful. I created the maze in a happier time for one I loved. It gladdens me that others still find solace in it. As to hosting this party, it's appropriate that I do so. It gives me a chance to catch up with old friends too." Corwin smiled slightly, "And make new ones."

 

/Slight smiles, and half-smiles make for reservations in thought.../

Was he asking for my alliance or was this just general good will?

 

"It was good to rub elbows with the people present. I found everyone to be quite cordial and pleasant. It's my sincere hope that such cordiality will extend into later activities."

 

I shrugged eloquently, "What that we could all be friends."

 

Corwin smiled, "You sound like your father, one of my best friends as it happens."

 

Privately I concurred that my father and he were probably the best of friends. Interesting that Corwin would know of my father for so long and I had not. What banner of silence was it that Corwin would not speak with me of my father before nor contact me and yet Benedict would not feel such constraint? There were patterns of behavior in my family that I had not been privy to. The elders had a some sort of secret they had been holding back from the younger generation. There was only one elder I could think of who might be willing to explain some of this—Brand. The question was, did I feel up to tackling him in conversation? Perhaps there was another who knew what was going on…Lord Rein maybe?

 

I chuckled, and reached for my drink. "Your seeing the tip of the iceberg. Between temperament and indoctrination I find the similarities alarming. More to the point. I don't know what the differences are."

 

Taking another sip I said, "But I've only just met the man. I hear others are experiencing similar...reunions."

 

Corwin shrugged, "Always happens when you get any large enough gathering together. At one point, relations between Amber and Chaos were warm enough. Piecemeal, but alright."

 

I felt his words echoing to me through the haze of Absinthe. Not a terribly distracting issue for an Amberite, but pleasant enough in it’s affects. Corwin’s words about once there being relative piece between realms made sense. Back to that question of what happened.

 

"Hmmm...this is where I make some perceptive commentary about outside forces and mutual suspicions. But alas, it's all too new to me. A week ago I only had a suspicion of the Courts existence. Yesterday, I talked with Suhuy in the lair of the Logrus. Doubtless further

illuminations will become evident during the negotiations."

 

I drained the rest of my drink and rose to my feet. I might have swayed fractionally, but at least my speech remained clear.

 

"The hour is late, and I don't wish to take any more of your time then I already have. Thanks for the audience."

 

I’ve always felt it best to terminate interviews before they could be terminated. This lends credence to a reputation that I ask fewer questions and come up with more information then the average person. It also means I have to scrabble and scrap harder and maintain a lucky edge.

 

Corwin shook his head, "No problem. Do you have a Trump of me, Flavel?"

 

I smiled, realizing Corwin's question made sense as I’d never contacted the Sorcerer King before, "Yes, I have most of the major arcana. I don't care to trump people above my sta-" I spread my

hands and offered a small grin, "What can I say? We've never had reason to conduct business."

 

Which was true enough. I don’t make it a practice of trumping people I’ve never met. I’ve found it safer to mix with them first in social gatherings to assess their personalities first.

 

Corwin smiled back, "True. Feel free to use my trump in the future then Flavel. It's been a pleasure talking to you."

 

An offer of some sort. Perhaps Anthony had asked Corwin to look out for me. This will bear some consideration. The sorcerer king appeared an extremely busy man to throw out this boon.

 

I bowed, "likewise my lord." In a swirl of cloak, I departed back to the main hall.

 

The main hall was now empty, the quiet of the evening settling into the expansive palace. A servant approached me, "May I help you, my Lord?"

 

I answered back absently while surveying the quiet, "Quarters please, Ser."

 

What do you call servants when you don’t know their names or stations? Ser for man, Sera for woman. Sort of a bastardized version of Sir I think.

 

The servant nodded and quietly led me to a comfortable suite, elegantly decorated throughout in dark blues and greens. The servant, a young man, bowed and said "Will there be anything else, my Lord?"

 

Interesting color scheme. Obviously Corwin knew the color of my eyes.

 

I returned the bow as my station required. "No. The room's furnishings I find more then adequate. Thank you for your diligence."

 

As the servant closed the door behind me I amused myself inspecting the room for anything nefarious.

 

Satisfied with the room's security I sat upon the bed and drew out my journal. With ordered precision from decades of practice I wet the stylus and began to craft my observations.

 

The hour was late. I reclined on the bed not noticing the hour. The journal I wrote in now had several new pages of words written in My precisely flowing script. In the modified Latin of my own invention I was busy writing out my perceptions of the people and events I had so recently observed.

 

Truth be told I could probably fill a volume just downloading every nuance, sentence, and gesture that I perceived. But this was more of a who’s who that I was currently writing up.

 

Suddenly, there was the tingle of a Trump contact at the base of my skull.

 

Snapping my head upwards at the intrusion I nearly decided to ward the contact as I had previously promised to do with future contacts, but...on second thought the events of recent days have mellowed that conviction. In light of what had so recently transpired it hardly seemed to matter. *Flavel here* I projected.

 

The contact answered quickly, bright and clear, and ordered. I could see Shado's face take form, the backdrop that of Arden. She smiled *I didn't wake you, did I?*

 

A smile alighted my face and I carefully set the stylus down some distance from me. *Not at all lady. My bookish ways keep me occupied*

 

She smiled again, *May I come through?*

 

*I..* I faltered in brief hesitation, * a moment please* Standing, I made room for her. My eyes drifted back to the stylus On the bed. Shrugging to myself I extended my hand. *at your

convenience then*

 

The ink I use is a potent neuro-toxin and the stylus is sharp. I felt this a basic security element but it would be unnecessary around Shado. If she could shapeshift, she’d wouldn’t be bothered by such irritants as poison.

 

She nodded her thanks and took my hand.

 

Pulling her through Shado could a room laid out in blues and greens. The bed looked wrinkled not from sleep but from the casual use as a roman chair. A journal lays open full of roman script interspersed with pictograms and a stylus was nearby. The rest of the room appeared clean and unused. I bowed briefly and released her hand. "Hail and well met Shado."

 

Shado bowed and smiled, said "Hail and well met Flavel."

 

Somewhat disconcerted I gestured to a nearby chair as I, in turn, moved to sit on the bed. “Please take a chair and make yourself welcome." I paused, "To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?"

 

Shado smiled, "Threefold. I come bearing gifts, for advice and for your company." She reached into a pouch at her waist and drew out some cards. "First the gifts."

 

I straightened and blinked. The thought of gifts had not occurred to me.

 

She handed me a number of Trumps. One of herself and a number of himself. She explained, "I've been making some trumps. I thought these may prove useful to you."

 

I smiled as I examined the cards. "You are most kind. I was down to the last of my personal cards." I examined the style of her drawings with clear admiration. Looking up at her I said, "I hope you saved one of my cards for yourself."

 

Making trumps took time. Time being a very valuable commodity for anyone of royal blood. I was looking at several hours of work on her part. A rare favor indeed. I felt perplexed at her gift, but also somewhat relieved. Most of my dealings with women are typically disastrous. It was good to see I could make friends with the opposite gender on occasion.

 

Shado smiled "I did indeed. They please you?"

 

I ill concealed a grin, "They do indeed. It's a rare pleasure to see what others perceive of me...and themselves. " My eyes strayed again to the cards taking in the nuances of detail. "I'm not much of an artist but I do appreciate your style, and the consideration of your gift."

 

Shado smiled, "Thank you. May I ask some advice?"

 

I set the cards aside and returned my full attention to her, "As much as I can give, I will."

 

She smiled and answered "Thank you. The matter is I need an objective opinion on someone and I trust you. I haven't really been here that long, so I'd appreciate any advice you may give me."

 

"Certainly. I will be happy to provide advice. The objectivity is of course something you will need to judge."

 

Shado nodded "Thank you. What do you think of Clovis?"

 

Now there’s a furrball waiting to be unraveled.

 

My grin widened, "There is a world of difference between advice and assessment. Nor do I think I could be objective in giving such an appraisal. Do you still wish me to continue?"

 

Shado blinked "You're normally objective about people." She nodded "Go on, please." Her smile became wicked "I'm curious now."

 

I felt the thin ice underneath me.

 

Stifling a chuckle I said, "I've only met him a couple times. I find the man worldly, intelligent, stylish and dangerous. He appears alternately a hedonist and a man dedicated to his father and sister. He is a gifted conversationalist. He is also competitive by nature. I'm not sure if he is constrained by rules in the conventional sense."

 

Shado nodded, an expression of puzzlement in the dark eyes. "Why are you so amused? I don't understand."

 

I wonder if she will ask Clovis as to my own person? I would in her place but that is out of my hands. Truth of fiction, each has it’s dangers…what to say?

 

The expression of amusement remains on my face as I said, "I might have irritated him inadvertently once or twice without meaning to. He tends to be dogged in his pursuits and obstacles, even inadvertent ones, appear to frustrate him."

 

Truth without source. Very close to open honesty. How much closer would she strive.? She appears deft at following feelings, less so in the matter of details though this is subject to revisionist assessment.

 

Shado looked curious "Irritated him how? He seems very pleasant in the main."

 

Truth very close to the source, where shall I deflect that her curiosity be satisfied? I cannot say Clovis feels competition with me over herself. This would only distance both of us from her.

 

I made an elegant wave of my hand, "Oh he is. Don't doubt that. But I interrupted a conversation between the two of you. What's more, when you took your leave I was able to reach you with more rapidity then he was able to muster. He took pains to show that this was of no issue but I could tell by his slight nuances that it frustrated him terribly."

 

Shado raised an eyebrow "And this amuses you. Why so?"

 

Shades of what is and what is not. Deflection through reasoning led elsewhere. Follow me, follow me.

 

I leaned forward as I sat, "Why not? Clovis is very new to Amber royalty. I knew the conversation twixt you and Clovis was private and that I was not wanted, but the safety of the realm I judge to be of greater importance. Clovis missed this completely and felt I was being intrusive. I was. I agree. But only insofar as I could get the realm's business taken care of. As soon as I affected this I left such that you two could resume your conversation. Clovis misread my intentions completely and I find this amusing."

 

Shado smiled "Ah, I see what you mean." She became serious again "Would you say he could be trusted with the knowledge we discussed of the nature of realms?"

 

My smile faded, "No. I say this not because I consider his intentions nefarious, but because I don't know his intentions at all. He very well may be an excellent ally. But I do not know this person such that I could say yes or no, so I say no."

 

My truth meter was running close to 95% so far. I doubt even Fiona could find me amiss. Sometimes it helps being trained by a mother who literally could tell a person’s blood pressure by the flaring of their nostrils.

 

Shado nodded "I thank you for your honesty. He has asked me of the realms. I think Julia may have mentioned something. And he has been very nice to both Julia and I so I did not wish to alienate him either."

 

I shrugged, "I'm already asking you to detail your knowledge during the negotiations between opposite powers of this realm. Most of the people I know even less then Clovis. The reason though is simply we have no other choice. Your realm knows of my realm and is actively moving against us. Even Clovis deserves to know this but I would prefer him knowing as others learn of these facts. This would serve to minimize distortions that such information could bring about if it's given piecemeal to a dozen different parties."

 

Plus the fellow is a jerk and twisting the knife by withholding information from him felt good. Petty of me I know but sometimes philosophy and circumstance work to feed my darker feelings.

 

Shado nodded "Alright. That makes good sense. I can explain that to him at dinner tonight."

 

I nodded, "I'm certain that he will be very mature about this."

 

Shado flashed a brilliant smile at me "Thank you. I knew you would give me good advice."

 

I smiled in return, "You can thank me later when the advice bears fruit. I only hope it is sound advice that I am providing and not an echoing competitiveness bourne from my own heart."

 

Shado looked surprised "Why would you feel competitive?"

 

Uh oh…In the game of Chess the hardest thing to do is win a game that’s won.

 

I shrugged, "I am the elder and he is my younger cousin. He probably only wishes to prove his worth to the Amber court and here I am running over him and what he strives to do for the realms benefit. Am I stealing his thunder for my own gain? Possibly. Possibly it was just ill timing and lack of resources compared to a handy deck of trump I possess and that he so sorely lacks."

 

I could afford to overlook Cloviss’ tantrums for now. Perhaps I was indeed playing the role of an Elder amberite by providing him a grace period. Of course, it’s easy to provide relatives with a grace period when you know that any one of them could cut you to ribbons without breaking a sweat.

 

Shado nodded "I see." She smiled "So how are you getting on here?"

 

I laughed, "It was a rocky start believe me. But I think I've managed to pull my...boots out of the fire."

 

Shado laughed "What happened?"

 

I shook my head, "Minor faux pax. I attacked a member of an opposing delegation during introductions."

 

Shado's jaw dropped "You what?" She recovered and said slowly "I'm assuming there was a good reason."

 

Yeah, I can’t wait to report that one to King Oberon. I’m sure he’ll have a grand laugh over that one…

 

I grinned crookedly, "There is certain proscribed behaviors during introductions. One of the opposing delegates came at me out of left field and I twisted her thumb. Purely reflex on my part. But it did tend to liven up the proceedings. She tossed me a flash bomb which probably saved my life as it also blinded somebody who drew steel on me. Luckily cooler heads prevailed and I've spent much of the evening trying to undo what I did."

 

Shado shook her head in amusement "So how did you get on from there?"

 

I took a deep breath. "Let me back up. After our meeting in the spires I walked the pattern and appeared before a father I previously never before met. We then had a late brunch, visited the Logrus (your version of the black flame) audienced with it's keeper, got hurled over to this party where I attacked a delegate, kissed and made up, was told I can probably shape change, met a half dozen more cousins. Got inspected by my fathers representatives of his house, and still had time to visit you and have a tiff with Clovis." I shrugged and managed a smile. "I manage to keep busy."

 

Lots of substance. Zero detail.

 

Shado nodded "More than busy by the sound of it." She added softly "How are you feeling?"

 

"I thought I was doing okay till I realized I was guzzling Absinthe while talking in private audience with Prince Corwin, the Sorcerer King of this shadow. Actually I'm fine now. I've had a chance to

unwind a bit. I find detailing my observations and ruminations to parchment unwinds me."

 

Shado nodded "Good." She thought for a moment then said "I think I could help you to know if you definitely have shape shifting or not."

 

"Is there a test?"

 

Shado nodded "It may hurt a little, but I'm a shape shifter too, so I should be able to detect it in your blood."

 

/Was that what Ryoden was talking about when she mentioned a blood donation?/ I shrugged and drew a scalpel from my wrist sheath, "Okay I'm game. How much do you need?"

 

Shado shook her head "I don't need a scalpel. I'll show you." She extended her hand and I could see one finger lengthen and thin to a needle sharp point.

 

I put my scalpel away and observed Shado's lengthened finger. "Well that's certainly different."

 

She grinned "And more efficient. If you are a shape shifter, I can teach you how to shift if you like."

 

I considered the idea. Nodded, "I would like that. If your willing to invest the time, I would endeavor to learn...assuming I have the gift."

 

Shado nodded "Alright, now hold out your hand please."

 

For a person that normally doesn’t like to be touched this was the mental equivalent of skydiving without a parachute. Not that I’ve ever parachuted. Law of averages and all that. Still I had a premonition of where this was going. Was I seriously going to let this woman under my skin—literally? She a self-confessed shapeshifter who in reality could be anyone? After all, I was alone in a room in a strange place and nobody knew she was here. What a setup. Could this be a test that Anthony drew up? No the sequencing in timelines was wrong. Unless she was one of his minions. If I backed out now there would never be fellowship between us. She’s invested time, given gifts. It could be a trap. Why is she doing this?

 

I held out my hand, "Now your supposed to say this won't hurt a bit."

 

Shado smiled sweetly "This won't hurt a bit."

 

"uh-huh, okay doc. Go for what you know."

 

Shado supported my outstretched hand with one of her own as she lifted the shaped hand into mine. There was a brief pain as the needle like finger moved into a blood vessel then the pain was gone and Shado concentrated.

 

Through the proceedings I watched with focused concentration. As the pain disappeared I glanced to Shado's face before again looking where we were now joined.

 

A raucous thought of what the actually definition of sex was hurled through my brain as the bizarreness of the situation enveloped me.

 

Her expression was that of focus. For a moment, I could almost sense her within me, a calm presence at the edge of my spirit. Shado looked briefly uncertain then focused again. Finally, she pulled back, the tiny wound closed before my eyes, her hand returned to normal though still in my hand. She looked troubled.

 

I flexed my hand. "By your look I take it I don't have the shape shifter's talent?"

 

Trust. What is it? How do we decide who would hold our lives in their hands?

 

Shado answered quietly "You have shape shifting within your blood."

 

I cocked my head to one side. "I don't understand. You appear troubled. Is something the matter?"

 

Shado bit her lip, then answered "You have Pattern like me, but there is something else we share."

 

Confused I said, "Your not going to tell me we are related are you?"

 

Shado nodded "We must be, somehow. You have the White Flame in your

blood."

 

It made sense. Anthony’s hesitations went I asked him about the Court of the White Flame. Who was he really? Did even he know the truth about himself?

 

"I was afraid of that. Not that it is a bad thing in and of itself. But it just confirms my own private suspicions. It also throws the door wide open to a great many half considered conjectures." I paused, "was there any other surprises?"

 

Shado shook her head "No, you have a very high level of regeneration, but that's probably from your Glyph."

 

Surprised I said. "Oh? pardon me. I haven't a clue what this silly thing does."

 

Shado replied "Oh. We have similar marks in the Court. It's a religious thing, the Temple of Apollo. I just assumed it was a corresponding cult here. Their glyphs store spells and regenerate their bearers."

That would explain why I never troubled myself from injuries. Amazing how a person can overlook such things. I just felt I was a fast healer. Some of the elders were that way I’d heard.

 

I laughed, "Cosmic! I need to make a tithe one of these days." I looked up from my Glyph at Shado, "How are you holding up under all this?"

 

Asking her how she felt I hoped would grant me a measure of space in which to assimilate this new data. It lasted all of a second.

 

Shado smiled "I'm surprised. You?"

 

I managed the barest shake of my head, "not at all. My immediate family is fairly long ranged in it's goals and controlled in it's management."

 

That was an understatement. If Anthony was half as calculating as my mother I was probably conceived in a laboratory.

 

Shado nodded "I did some digging. I think my mother was brought by Oberon from the Court for the same reasons with me being the result." She looked troubled "How do you handle this?"

 

Get drunk, smash up my room, take a ride on the pattern…

 

I smiled, "Initially, quite badly. But I am firm in my knowledge that I am my own person. Others may have crafted me, educated me, and directed me...but here and now I am my own person. The duties and responsibilities I take freely. I don't have time to be bitter or resentful. On the contrary, I should be glad that my destiny was so carefully thought out. Yes, there is a portion of me that resents such monstrous calculation. But can I yet complain of it's wealth of capability? Would I be better off with an uncaring family where my creation was happenstance?"

 

I really got to give myself credit for coming up with the silliest stuff at moment’s notice. I could even believe it.

 

Shado said quietly, almost a whisper "I thought I was just that until I came here. An unplanned event in a, for the most part anyway, loving family. Then I came here and...everything has changed."

 

I followed my own logic.

 

I leaned forward staring intently at Shado, "The stronger we become the more the responsibility overtakes us to calculate the results of our creation. Happenstance can be ill afforded when the stakes rise so highly. I do not fault my ancestors for trading their dice for calculators. It may not be romantic. But it was necessary, and regardless, there is always room for love."

 

In my own mind’s eye, I blinked. I’d hit the nail with the hammer. I knew I was correct. What’s more I realized I was much the same way only better and worse then anything my parents could have imagined. I had proscribed myself from ever taking life or creating it. To do so would be to enter into the karmic circle of existence. I dared not do it for too many reasons. Thus I was both coward and saint. Shackled to restraint and free from the confines of guilt. Hybrid freak both celibate and bloodless.

 

Shado looked back, midnight black eyes meeting blue and green "You

really believe that?"

 

I was yet uncertain though the truth lay there. All 90% of it. Anthony said he loved Fiona. How could that be when they were not companions to one another? Or maybe they were. Trumps were amazing devices. The coordination and level of subterfuge required would be incredible though. More like an open secret. Corwin must have known. So to did Benedict. Bleys most likely. Anthony mentioned all of House Sawall knew of me. An open secret that I was not to know. Much like what was happening with others of my generation. Did my parents love each other? Was it even important?

 

I stared back, "Maybe. I think anything is possible and I will not damn my parents till I know their reasons. And if I never know, I know", I thumped my chest, "that I would not create an issue

without conjecturing fully the possible ramifications. This is my duty to the realm. Did you think being a lord or lady of creation was all carefree pleasure." my tone appeared serious but my eyes probably reflected my own twisted amusement.

 

Shado shook her head "No, my whole life has been duty, but I knew where I belonged. Whom I served. Now, I don't know. And you know fine well my issue was not my choice."

 

My voice dropped to a whisper, "I know lady. That was a horrific abuse of power. The exact opposite of all that I have implied."

 

Which was too true.

 

Shado looked at him, her hands trembling "What do I do?"

 

I saw myself run to hug her. Tell her it was okay. Wipe away the tears. It wasn’t in me. I held her in too high a regard for sympathy or maybe I was too afraid of the closeness. I didn’t want a pity party.

 

I took both my hands and ran them through my hair. "What are your choices?" I snapped.

 

Shado looked up at him, her face neutral "Forget I asked."

 

Too hard…what did I really fear?

 

I looked across to her, "I did not mean to seem cruel. Your question was open ended. I don't have a clear answer for you."

 

Shado nodded, relaxing a little "I know. I'm just a bit on edge from a lot of things."

 

I sighed, "Shado I'm not certain I can provide you accurate advice in this area. I'm not even sure there is correct advice. I know what I belief. This is something you'll have to work out for yourself. I'd be glad to listen and toss out my own ideas and ideals. But you'll ultimately have to make your own conclusions. I will say this. Of the past, there is no escaping. The future though, is still ours. I know it sounds sophomoric...but there it is."

 

I wasn’t sure where I was getting all this stuff but it sounded good so I kept trawling it on. I didn’t want our friendship borne out of shared misery. We could get passed this, regardless of our planned pasts. Where we would go I wasn’t certain but I knew she was one I could nearly…”

 

Shado nodded then asked softly "Would you tell me your ideas, your ideals?"

 

"As far as I can, I will."

 

Oh lady, you would not believe my truest self.

 

Shado smiled "Thank you. would you like a hot drink, by the way?"

 

I sat back down on the bed, exhausted from the discussions of fate and fortune. I had argued for my parents when I maintained reservations of them, made light of calculations I felt imprisoned by, and talked well of the man who would slight me. “I would be delighted."

 

Shado concentrated then held out her hand. Two blue glass cups appeared, fashioned in the Roman style. A fragrant scent arose from them.

 

I chuckled, and gingerly accepted one of the glasses, "I've got to learn that trick. At my rate I'll get to it in a century or two."

 

Shado chuckled "I can throw that in along with the shape shifting if you like."

 

We’ve shared blood, spirits, laughter, sorrow what else could we do?

 

Tapping my glass against Shado's, I whispered, "thank the gods for eternity, I've been known to be a slow learner."

 

Shado smiled "You'll like this. Borage. It's a herb that used to be given to knights before jousting."

 

I smiled and replied, "That would explain why I've never tried it before."

 

Well Julian had offered but I felt an urgent need to be busy with some library research..

 

Shado chuckled "It restores energy and is a mild euphoric. The latter effect doesn't tend to last long though."

 

I nodded, "An interesting property. Sounds like it could be utilized as a drug."

 

Shado nodded "Borage flowers in wine are fun. They cool it down. Why I'm not sure. How are you feeling now?"

 

"Fine I think." Again I flexed my hand. Bemused at the lack of any wound. I would want to test this healing capability later on. "And yourself? Are you feeling okay?"

 

Shado nodded, her face thoughtful "Yes, just thinking about things, considering what you've told me."

 

Hopefully not too carefully. As long as she wasn’t eidetic I felt confident nothing in my story conflicted with the truth or my own feelings…mostly.

 

I nodded, my expression tinging toward seriousness, "It wasn't all advice. Somewhere along the line I espoused my own views. My philosophies are not always entirely mainstream and I wouldn't feel amiss if you don't accept them."

 

Another understatement.

 

Shado nodded "I know that, but they're in line with what I grew up with. My father, step-father I mean, followed the Stoic school of thought. If Venus blesses you, all well and good, but Hestia or Juno are more likely and fitting examples. To lead by example."

 

I shook my head, "In part. Yes I see what you mean. To the past I would try to be stoic. What else can be done with it but learn from experiences? They cannot be changed nor ever forgotten. To the future, though, I would chart my own course."

 

Romantic meliorist. No dares, no cares. Calculate and cross-reference. Query and investigate. Never to create, never to control.

 

Shado nodded "I'd agree. In the army, many of my men followed Mithras too. For me though I prefer the saying 'Learn from the past, plan for the future, but live in the present.' What do you think?"

 

Flavel smiled, "I think it's a good philosophy. I sometimes forget to live in the present as you describe. The past and future make many demands. It becomes easy for me to chase rainbows."

 

Shado smiled "And do you find the pot of gold at the end of them?"

 

Sometimes it’s a pot of lead.

 

I chuckled, "Not yet fair lady, but there's always the next time."

 

Shado laughed softly "Chasing rainbows isn't a bad way to live I would think. I like rainbows."

 

I nodded and against all judgement took a sip of my drink. My mother would scold me for being the first to drink of an offered beverage but then again, she’d probably faint at the idea of her son letting another into his blood. "As do I."

 

The drink, pleasant enough in taste, acted quickly and I could feel my flagging energy reserves restored. Then there was the sense of euphoria that Shado warned me of. She sipped her own "What do you think of the tea?"

 

I closed my eyes as I experienced a mixture of alarm and wonderment. "Potent I would say! You serve strong drink." I opened my eyes and gone was my fatigue.

 

Shado chuckled "Make the most of it. The euphoria won't last long."

 

Completely out of character I closed my eyes and spread my arms wide in the center of the room. Stifling a giggle I slowly spun and incanted,

 

"Faerie children come and play.

Brightest blessings to the Fae.

Come and worship bless this rite.

Celebrate with us tonight."

 

Shado clapped her hands in delight, laughing "You do surprise me, Flavel."

 

I bowed as if to an audience of many, in part to hide my blush. "I was a bard once upon a time. The faerie call is not my own but something told to me by one of the fair folk named SilverSprite. I'm happy to share it with you though."

 

One of the great things about having a good memory. There’s all this stuff I can draw upon any time.

 

Shado smiled "I thank you from the heart of the bard I once was too. Ah, but what now to share in turn?" She stood and curtsied, her tone light and teasing "And what would you wish from me, good Flavel?"

 

For a moment I wondered if she was speaking in double-entendres.

 

I placed a finger to my temple. The tea's euphoria lending my stance a sense of goofiness to my parody of rapt thoughtfulness. "How about something from your land. Something happy and full of life."

 

Shado nodded then grinned and said "Want to sneak out?"

 

I returned her grin, "Wherever the lady wishes."

 

Shado flashed a dazzling smile at me then took my hand and led me to the door. Carefully opening it, she looked first one way then another. Finally, she led me down corridors, pausing every so often, and then into the gardens.

 

Following as quietly as I could my eyes strayed to Shado in admiration of her movements. With a shake of my head I surmised, /Moves like a cat she does./

 

Which was to say my own movements felt neaderthalic next to her.

 

Once we were out of sight of the main palace, in one of the more secluded areas of the garden, Shado turned to me with a smile "You asked for something happy. Near the Court, one of the Shadows specialize in wine making. This is the song and dance of that time." She sang quietly at first, the words clear and strong.

 

The song reminded me of summers by the Rhine, a happy carefree time for the most part. Without missing a beat, Shado took my hands and led me into the dance, simple yet flowing with its own rhythm.

 

I caught the meter and let the music run through me. Soon enough my body became apart of the song. This was life itself.

 

Flowing into the rhyme of the song, I followed suit and danced carefree. Halfway through her music I added my own voice of strong tenor to her song's refrains.

 

The two voices blended as the dance moved as one, forming a harmonious whole. Mirroring the song, the two bards' danced too became more complex and intertwined, Shado now in my arms then away then back within my grasp.

 

A rare joy possessed me beyond the influence of herb and drink. Too rare is the experience of dancing with a fellow bard. Another soul who could entwine themselves in flowing words and movements as another would wear clothes.

 

Eventually, the song came to an end and Shado smiled up at me "Thank you for the dance, Flavel. I'd forgotten how much pleasure can come from the company of another bard."

 

I breathed deeply of the cool night air. "Likewise Shado. It was in truth too long since I've had the pleasure of a fellow Bard's dance."

 

Shado nodded "Me too." She sat on the edge of a fountain, trailing her fingers in the cool water, sparkling under the moonlight. "It's been a while since Julia and I have done anything, but run and fight and hide."

 

I looked into the pool at Shado's reflection, "Things have been getting so serious of late. It was good to cut loose. Even if it was for only a moment's time."

 

She smiled "It was and is. Come sit beside me."

 

I moved to sit next to her, and was aware of her presence. It seems to fit perfectly with the fountain's waters, and the clean night air that surrounded us. "I hope there are other nights we might play and dance." I said wistfully.

 

Distantly I noted I was inside the killing zone of each other.

 

Shado smiled "There will be. We're cousins, on both sides now."

 

And somehow it didn’t seem to matter. Very strange.

 

Smiling back I said, "It is said you can choose your friends but not your relatives, but I could not want more, for either, from you." I laughed briefly at the complexity of my speech. "It's good to know you Shado."

 

She colored slightly "That is really nice of you to say so. You've been a good friend to me, to Julia, since we arrived."

 

Unsure what to say, I remained silent for a time listening to the fountain's waters. At length I said, "Tomorrow I and others here will journey to Amber I think. Without Trump via the Royal way."

 

Shado nodded "Father, I and his Rangers will be escorting the delegation once they enter Arden." She smiled apologetically "I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable. I just think you're a good person

to know too."

 

Feeling somewhat rueful, I said, "I'm glad you think well of me." I considered saying something more in this vein but decided against it. Instead I ventured a smile and said, "Maybe we will have a chance to ride together if Protocol allows."

 

Inwardly I wondered at my own transparency, and more so that I didn’t really care.

 

Shado grinned "I'm sure it will. " She looked curious "What were you going to say?"

 

Taking a deep breath I released it in something like a sigh, "Shado, my training and inclinations run very close to what others would perceive as paranoia. I've been known to react badly from pure reflex. I don't normally let people within my close proximity as I or others could get hurt, or at the very least seriously embarrassed. Now you have come along and I find myself sitting next to you and it's alright and wonderful and for the life of me I don't know my own mind, or what I'm doing." A thought ricochets through my mind. A single word, 'SOULMATE.'

 

My own words to Random came mockingly to my ears. What is trust. I still wasn’t sure, but of trust I could only say I know it when I see it, and tonight I was deep in it.

 

Shado was quiet for a time then said "I know what you mean. I relax around you and my wariness recedes." She fell silent for a moment then said "Do you think it's because we have common background, sort of?"

 

I laughed, "Sort of?" my voice faltered, "Both Roman, both bards, both can shape change, shared blood. I imagine we even share inhibitions. I would think this meeting planned save that nobody could, in my wildest dreams be found capable of such outrageous circumstance. I look at you and feel if you moved against me It would be no stranger then if my own hands did betray me."

 

Unless of course somebody who knew me extremely well shapeshifted and posed as this Shado. I decided this was flatly impossible. When we shared blood I knew her as much as she knew me. Besides, the effort to accomplish this would be unearthly and the rewards zero.

 

Shado said quietly "I won't betray you. And no, if things had gone well, I would be in the Court now and you would be wherever you chose. A meeting would not have happened though." She took a deep breath "So what do we do now?"

 

I looked up at the night sky full of twinkling stars and wisps of cloud. A falling star streaked across the heavens. "I don't know Shado. There is duty to be done, and disaster to avert."

 

Corny but that’s life.

 

Shado nodded "I know. To do anything other than enjoy the moment in light of this may be to tempt fate. There is too much yet to come." She smiled wryly "What a day this has been so far."

 

I arched an eyebrow briefly and smiled, "Look on the bright side. It hasn't been boring."

 

Shado laughed "It definitely hasn't been that. And my day is far from over. I still have some things to get and have dinner with Clovis later."

 

"Looks like I have the easier duty then. For the moment, my needs are merely that of slumber. I hope your dinner goes pleasantly."

 

Shado blushed slightly "I'm sure it will. He is very charming and has been nice to Julia and I."

 

"I think he knows good friends when he sees them."

 

Still balancing the truth Flavel?

 

Shado nodded and then stood "I should be getting back."

 

I nodded as well, "As I should be turning in. Thank you for sharing your time with me. I look forward to our next encounter."

 

Shado smiled "Until then." and flipped open the small green book she carried. In a rainbow swirl, the lady was gone.

 

Remaining seated I continued to watch the stars in the night sky. Unnoticed even to myself, I softly whistled Shado's song.

 

 

I came to consciousness gradually, feeling curiously refreshed and well. The small sounds outside my room told me of a palace slowly coming to life. The day ahead beckoned...

 

After spending the necessary time devoted to grooming and dress, I picked up my shoulder bag and fastened on my cloak and scabbard. Stepping out into the hallway I made my way to the main hall.

 

The hall was near empty, devoid of fellow guests from the previous evening, quiet and restful. A few servants move around, busily arranging the hall for the day to come yet doing so softly and with little noise. One approached me "May I help you, my Lord?"

 

"Good morning, Ser. I'm afraid I've gotten up a bit early. Could you tell me where visitors will be having breakfast?"

 

The servant nodded "Of course, my Lord, if you will follow me." The servant led me to a small, elegant dining room a short distance away. The breakfast spread was sumptuous and deliciously fragrant.

 

I thanked the servant and moved to the table. Finding a cup, and nearby carafe I poured myself some coffee. Seeing that nobody else had made their way to the table I held off on formal dining and instead maneuvered over to a nearby window. Possibly, the view afforded would show the gardens in the daytime, and if not, there is always something new to see.

 

I still felt giddy from my time with Shado. Banished were thoughts of botched introductions and the undercurrents of secrets.

 

Opening the outside doors, Be and Etienne enter the breakfast hall and looked at the splendidly laid out food. They also saw me sitting there and after a short look at each other, Be approached me and smiled. "Good morning! Mind if we join you for breakfast?"

 

I blew on my coffee as they entered. The plate in front of me appeared unused. Looking up, I said, "Please do. I was hesitant to start without good company."

 

I absently swirled the half-full cup of coffee.

 

Seeing the familiar pair, Andrew & Ryoden, enter the dining room, I raised my cup in welcome. "Top of the morning Ryoden, Andrew." I paused as Zeta briskly walked in. "Good Morning Zeta, I'm Flavel." I said cheerfully.

 

Ryoden looked around "Uhhhhh.... This weather we're having. Nice, huh?"

 

Ryoden looked back to Andrew, biting her lip. "Guess this conversation stuff takes work, huh?"

 

He smiled approvingly at her "It is, but you're doing just fine. Want some coffee?"

 

Ryoden nodded. "You know how I like it." She smiled at him, grateful for the ally.

 

He nodded and went over to pour some coffee for her, sweetening it as she preferred. He nodded to Zeta as he went "Lady Zeta, it is a pleasure to meet you."

 

“Did you two sleep well?” I asked of Andrew and Ryoden.

 

Ryoden blushed deeply, and put her hand to her mouth. Mutely she nodded. "And, you? These castles are cold, aren't they?"

 

Gazing from Ryoden's deepening blush to where Andrew stood briefly turning color, I let my eyes narrow in an almost imperceptibly brief moment. Taking a sip of my coffee, I said with dead pan

innocence, "Indeed. Castles are notorious for their heating problems. But I'm sure there are many ways to keep warm with your inventiveness."

 

That was skunky of me but I was feeling feisty.

 

Ryoden broke down into a giggling fit.

 

"I'm very inventive. That's why I'm here! Necessity is the mother of invention." She peeked a look at Andrew.

 

Andrew smiled politely to Flavel and replied "A truer word was never spoken by the fair lady. I'm also sure that for some here, this will be our first trip to Amber. What would you say are the main differences between Amber and the Courts, Flavel?"

 

Taking Andrew's cue to change the subject I said, "Speaking as a person who only briefly toured the courts, I'd say that the main difference you will immediately note is Amber's solidity. The courts are surreal and fluid, whereas Amber is a source of focused clarity and completely fixed in it's representation. The difference between music and a painting...if that makes any sense."

 

Ryoden nodded. "How's their castle? I've heard it's great. Bet there's plenty of things to study there-- OH! Yes, don't let me forget, Andrew. I want to see the pattern when we get there." She conjured a sticky and wrote 'PATTERN' on it in large block letters, then stuck it to the inside of her jacket.

 

I smiled, "There's plenty to see within the Amber castle. There's also a couple places that are off limits. For instance, Fiona has her own lab, but it would make her grumpy if we upset her experiments. I'd be happy to escort you around though. Even show you the pattern if there's time."

 

"Really? You will!?" She took out the note and added something below it in smaller letters.

 

I wondered if giving a tour to a Lady of Chaos with such exuberance might be more then I could handle.

 

"So, your mom has experiments-- you wouldn't be able to talk to her so maybe I could look at some of the less secret ones, would you? I love that kind of stuff."

 

I didn’t bother to hide my amusement at her request. "I could but I won't. Fiona and I have an unspoken agreement. I don't ask her what she's doing in Research and Development, and in return, I don't have nightmares thinking about it."

 

"Oh-- hmph. Maybe I could ask Count Anthon-- oh wait. No. Can't do that." She crossed her arms and pouted. "She isn't the only one with a lab, is she?"

 

I whitened slightly as recalled something that frightened me quite badly. Once I had taken a wrong turn and somehow found myself in Sand’s laboratory. At least, I think it was Sand’s. There should have been a sign posted at the entrance, “Check your soul at the door.” I refuse to even think about what I saw. I shook it off and spooned some scrambled eggs onto my plate. "Each of the Amber royalty could be considered a house onto themselves. I can't just take you around to whatever it is they are currently doing. Doubly so as you happen to be a Lady of Chaos, no offense. Please understand I hold you in the highest respect, but your asking for something that isn't mind to give."

 

Not wanting to appear a total prig I decided to make an offer. Besides maybe I could see something of her place sometime.

 

I paused momentarily and then ventured, "I could show you some of my projects though if you'd be interested."

 

Ryoden clapped her hands. "Yes, that would be wonderful! I'd love to see them! I'll even give you time to hide all the super-double-secret ones, okay? And if you ever want to see mine at Minobee, you know you're free to pop on by.

 

"Make sure you see the Great Hall when you do. It's great. Lots of wizzing things."

 

The thought of everyone in her house being just like her came to my mind. Scary thought. Probably play tennis with hand grenades.

 

I added some toast to my plate and took a moment to nibble. "I don't know when I'll next be in the neighborhood but I appreciate the offer." I answered diplomatically.

 

Ryoden cocked her head. "You should come to Chaos, though. I mean, we're visiting _your_ home. It's only fair. And your dad has really good food. We had dinner when he hired me.

 

"Have you seen the Logrus yet?"

 

My eyes glazed briefly and I intoned.

 

"I did see Discordia,

...and the Hibernaculum too.

We walked the Sawall ways,

And viewed the Grand Avenue."

 

Snapping my head as if waking from a dream I looked somewhat chagrined. "There's a lot that's there that bears closer examination. I hope to make the scene again sometime."

 

Sometimes I get like that. One moment sharply precise, the next I spouting Shakespeare. I guess it’s a case of whatever fits. Or possibly my feelings run deeper then I’d care to admit.

 

Ryoden blinked a few times. "Did you just make that up? I like that poem! I have to remember that! Can you add a bit about Minobee too? Maybe the next stanza."

 

I chuckled, "I wasn't planning on crafting a ballad over breakfast but of Minobeeways I would say this."

 

I took a sip of coffee and paused to arrange my thoughts.

 

"In the garden there were spiders.

Look at what they weave.

Binding light and dark, and lightning stark

It's a place you can't believe."

 

Ryoden awarded me with a tittering laugh. "Yes! A good stanza! Is this what you do for a living? You're so good at it! Wish I could wordsmith like that. I could make a poem bot. Maybe if I interfaced you with a learning matrix for a while that would do the trick." She eyed me speculatively.

 

Looking back at Ryoden I said seriously, "The arrangement of words is the most primal of magics. Be careful what you create."

 

Turning to Andrew I said. "House Sawall makes a living with words. But their science is my art." I shrugged and forked some scrambled eggs, "and my art is but a poor hobby. I always get this compulsion to wash my hands afterwards."

 

Ryoden looked confused. "Really? I only get that compulsion after working with my engines. Oil can be messy stuff. Especially if you forget, then conjure lunch. Blegh."

 

She laughs, she cries, she has the soul of a typewriter.

 

She took a moment to think. "If words are dangerous, thanks for the warning. I'll see if I can't get you a list of some other dangerous things."

                                                 


Zeta poured herself coffee and stepped back watching the interplay in silence. She sipped the steaming, bitter liquid. She seemed a bit grim. She took a plate and helped herself to breakfast, stacking it high with her usual mix of protein rich foods. She sat down and surveyed us. "Well said, my lord Sawall" she murmured, then looked at Ryoden and continued "Words are indeed dangerous, Lady..." She paused for a moment. "...Ryoden, as I'm sure a Sawall could tell you almost better than anyone else." She regarded me "And good morning to you, my..." Again she paused, but this time there is a pointedness to her silence. "Forgive me. I am not sure of the correct protocol. What is your correct title? Prince? Duke? Lord? I would hate to cause offense by referring to you incorrectly."

 

Damn! In my wool gathering I must have botched another introduction. Should have appended Princess to her name. I must have come off acting like a drunk. Odd though, that she ascribed my warning as Andrew’s or does she know me as a Sawall. Unlikely, if she did she would know my station.

 

Ryoden waved. "I'm a Lady. I think. I think that's the generic name you get in a house. Never looked into that. Always meant to, though. And he's a Lord." She waves to Andrew with a smile. "A very nice one."

 

"Words.... Maybe I can work on a WORD bomb next. Make it say nasty things." She smiled wickedly.

 

I stopped eating and slid my chair back, stood and bowed, "Princess Zeta, my title is Prince."

 

Zeta’s eyes narrowed. She pushed her own seat back and stood as well. Her face remained completely impassive.

 

She returned my bow with crisp precision. "Very well, your highness, I apologize for my ignorance. However, I fear you must have mistaken me for another. My title is Lady. Certainly nothing so exalted as Princess."

 

I shrugged, "As the lady wishes it."

 

FUTUE TE ET IPSUM CABALLUM! And I refuse to translate it.

 

Zeta shot a sideways glance at Ryoden and raised one eyebrow. "Thank you, my lady," she said with stoic politeness, "although I was not confused as to your title or that of our Lord of Sawall. It was the princling of Amber of whom I was in some doubt as how to address. And as for your word bomb, you may wish to speak to Judas regarding. He has some facility in the area of combining language and technology."

 

Andrew then smoothly diverted the conversation "As I understand it, we are traveling by horse or carriage into Amber. How does everyone here prefer to travel?"

 

"Van," says Ryoden, cheesy grin on her face. "But I think I'll have to settle for a horse. Never ridden one before. Can we go fast, or are we going to have to be dignified about this?"

 

Coffee in hand I stepped away from the table. I felt a dire need to get away from Zeta’s spinyness. "I imagine we will want to all be together and look stately and dignified as we reach Arden. Before that things will probably be more free and easy."

 

Looking over at Andrew I said, "I shy away from the high spirited chargers. Personally I prefer broken down hay burners that won't fight you for control every step of the way."

 

This was a slam in Zeta’s direction but I doubted very much she would get the inference. Ryoden, definitely not. Andrew maybe. The others had been silent and would think their own thoughts.

 

Andrew nodded then smiled at Ryoden "I think that answers you then. Though I'd still suggest you take it easy while you're learning to ride."

 

Ryoden sighed. "Maybe I can add a seatbelt to my horse. How comfortable are saddles? I think I'll bring some cushions, too, then. Oh! And I'll need a place to put the plutonium so he'll be safe. I could just see him falling off and running into the underbrush... He may glow a bit, but I'd think if he got dirty he'd be hard to find, you know?"

 

Andrew smiled "I'd suggest the carriage for comfort. Horses are comfortable enough to ride, but they don't come with seatbelts or cushions."

 

I spoke up, "I was thinking on heading over to the stables and seeing what might be available. Doubtless many of the horses are reserved. Of the ones that are left, It might be wise to pick one you can work with before the choices become limited."

 

Ryoden tapped her lips with her fingers. "Hmm..." She looked at Andrew. "What are you taking? Horse or carriage?"

 

Andrew answered "I'll be riding. I just need to pull mine in." He smiled "A contrary steed at the best of times, but he serves me well enough."

 

"Then I want to ride a horse. How hard can it be? Let's go find a nice horse for me-- oh, and one for Flavel too." She put out her hand to Andrew.

 

I wonder if there will be a wedding. Doubtful, but love is strange. I of all people should appreciate that.

 

Andrew chuckled "Ah, the optimism. Come on then." He took her hand "Any preferences as to steed, Flavel? I can pull one in if you like."

 

I bowed to Zeta as an equal. "Nice meeting you Lady."

 

I always thought of myself as having a bit of a mean streak when it came to nuances.

 

Andrew too bowed to the small company as he with me and Ryoden. "A pleasure to meet you all."

 

Walking outside with Ryoden and Andrew I said, "I'm curious to see what the Logrus might gem up. My preference would be something that would be responsive to the typical equestrian commands, beyond that...surprise me."

 

Hopefully it wouldn’t be a giant Gila monster but I’d be willing to ride it if acted like a horse and didn’t consider me lunch.

 

Lady Ryoden said, "I suppose it has to be a _normal_ horse, huh? I'll let you pull one in. I don't really know all that much about horses. I usually just walk. Don't worry too much about the color. I'm not picky. Just one that won't toss me off when I get on."

 

Andrew thought for a moment then moved to the very edge of the stable yard. "Logrus can upset normal horses sometimes." He looked at me for a moment then his eyes became distant, unfocussed and odd. He whispered "Flavel, Ryoden, you may wish to step back somewhat."

 

The instruction were unnecessary as I already has taken a couple of steps backwards at the smell of the Logrus. "Sure thing Andrew. Take your time. Do it right," I ventured.

 

Ryoden moved back, and cocked her head to the side. "Not too big either. Taller they are, more the ground hurts when you fall off."

 

Andrew nodded "I'm bringing in Flavel's steed first, then yours Ryoden. Finally, I'll bring in mine."

 

A shimmering in the air formed followed by a grey, dappled stallion. He looked to be a graceful looking animal with Arabian looks. The horse looked around with interest, seemingly placid and easy-tempered.

 

Andrew smiled "Your steed I believe, Flavel."

 

I walked up to the animal slowly and offered a hand for it to sniff. I spoke some soothing words to it and led it a little ways away from the group so the next animal brought had room.

 

Andrew concentrated again and, after a few more minutes, a pretty little mare, bicolor in white and chestnut splotches with a golden tail and mane, appeared. Andrew smiled "Ryoden, your horse."

 

Ryoden was much more cautious than I was (if such a thing could be said…), she looked slightly intimidated by the size and power of the horse. Sticking out her chin, She imitated me, moving forward slowly.

 

"Do horses like anything?" she asked.

 

Andrew smiled "Apples work a treat as do carrots. Feed her from the palm of your hand and that should be fine."

 

Ryoden took a second to conjure a carrot, and held it out to the horse. "What's it's name...?"

 

Andrew smiled "That's up to you to name her." The small mare gently took the carrot and chewed away. It then nuzzled Ryoden, gentle for all its size.

 

Finding a brush in the saddle bag (naturally), I went about grooming my horse, humming as I did so. Noticing the alertness and curiosity(?) inherent in the horse's expressions, I asked Andrew. "Say uh, Andrew, where did you find these horses anyways? They don't seem very... stupid, if you take my meaning."

 

Even the most intelligent of horses typically look dumb, act dumb, and are dumb. Mine looked like it would accept white if I offered to play it a game of chess.

 

Ryoden lost some tenseness in her frame and petted her horse’s mane. "I'm no good at naming things... Just look at the plutonium! Still name-less." She conjured a little apple and held that out too.

 

Okay Pluto’s out. Maybe pixel. That would be a good choice.

 

Ryoden continued, "Thank you... She's very nice. Hope she and the element get along. I just hope she won't raid your room in the middle of the night."

 

Andrew chuckled, "I'm sure she won't." To me, he answered "I acquired the horses from a Black Zone shadow that specializes in livestock. Their horses tend to have a bit of Chaos in them and are more adaptable to change, bit smarter too."

 

Ryoden perked a bit, and appeared smug at the talk of Chaos horses... She smiled and bounced on her feet a bit, looking prideful.

 

I’ll have to show her Julian’s mount sometime…

 

Checking that the saddle straps were correctly fitted and tight, I hoisted myself onto the horse. At first I just sat there, letting the horse and myself get used to each other. I was somewhat surprised that the horse didn’t appear to make any adjustments to my presence so I began issuing a series of commands to determine it's responsiveness and training.

 

"Okay. Now how do I ride her?" asked Ryoden.

 

Andrew smiled and answered "For the moment, just lead her to one side and do what Flavel is doing. Grooming will help her to settle and get to know you. I also need to bring my own steed in. Flavel, would you show Ryoden how to groom a horse, please?"

 

Focused on working with my horse, I snapped out of my concentration. "What? Oh yeah, sure." I guided my horse over to Ryoden and dismounted.

 

"There's nothing much too it Ryoden." I handed her a brush and described some basic grooming techniques. "As a shapeshifter, you probably have an intuitive feel for working with different animal types. The horse has thick skin so don't feel afraid to brush harder then you would your own skin. But brush with the grain of the hair. Grooming removes parasites, as well as providing you with the opportunity to assess the animal's overall health. Remember, mammals communicate tactually, so the grooming is your best chance to bond with the horse, not treats." I went on in this vein for sometime issuing the instructions in what I often considered my automatic

pilot instructional mode.

 

Ryoden's eyed glazed over, and for a moment, I wondered whether She was listening at all. She snapped out of it, though, as I finished, and smiled widely.

 

"Okay. Okay. I have many ideas now. Thanks." She brushed the horse, talking cheerily, her eyes somewhere far off.

 

A short distance away, Andrew pulled in his own steed. It was a spirited white stallion with black mane and tail. It immediately calmed though on seeing Andrew. He patted it and began to quickly groom it.

 

Quietly, Andrew asked "How are you getting on, Ryoden?"

 

"Wonderfully! I like this horse idea. Now, adding on is problematic, so I'll have to stick to maintenance things. And I'm no good at training, so I suppose adding something like wings wouldn’t work, huh?

 

"How about you?" she asked.

 

Andrew chuckled "Maintenance is usually the purview of grooms. They take care of food and grooming normally, but I'll show you how to do this."

 

As they talked I removed the horse’s saddle and equipment so as to brush it's back. I paused for a bit to examine the saddle’s construction.

 

I muttered something briefly in Latin by way of an appraisal and went back to grooming the horse.

 

I watched Andrew and Ryoden working together out of the corner of my eye as I continued grooming my mount. It was obvious the Chaos lord and lady had hit it off well. "Me thinks I might be a third wheel in their endeavors," I whispered to Polaris.

 

I reassembled the riding gear atop the horse and cinched the straps. The saddle that initially caught my eye I made certain was properly centered. /Interesting that the Andrews Black circle

friends prefer the Persian saddle, whereas the Amberites tend to embrace a more Western European style,/ I mused.

 

With the gear properly fitted I again mounted the horse and took it through a series of motions. /Can it reverse? Will it kneel? Will it obey knee commands?/ After a couple minutes of appraising it's capabilities I called out to Andrew and Ryoden, "I'm going to ride around the castle once or twice. I'll see you two in a bit."

 

With that I lightly spurred the horse and began my short travel.

 

Polaris, having shown obedience to all my prior commands, cantered forward with an easy and graceful gait. The palace, surrounded by gardens and courtyards then defenses, was in turn surrounded by the city of Tintagel. Everything worked with a smooth efficiency, but there was more than that. Everywhere I saw the small signs of a people loyal to their king.

 

There were other signs though. An efficient police force accompanied by dark robed sorcerers from the school. Indolent nobles at ease in the garden. A complacency among the aristocracy of Avalon that seemed at odds with the attitude of their king...

 

"Hmmm..." I pondered, /there may be a danger in prolonged idolness amongst the leadership. Might bear closer examination one of these days./

 

As I slipped into a quiet thoroughfare my clothing of gray trimmed white darkened to black trimmed gray. Funeral attire for the somber event soon to come.

 

As I worked the stuff of shadow a fragmentary bit of song reached my ears from a nearby tavern. A song not normally heard in medieval cities. Just the same I ignored the damnable tune and continued my casual Reconnaissance.

 

As I continued on my way, I became aware of a feeling of being watched. There was a sense of a puzzle just within my reach yet hidden, reminiscent of when I walked through Corwin's maze. Now though, the maze seemed to roam through Tintagel itself.

 

I paused my horse and glanced up at the sun. /Looks still low in the East. I might have an hour or two to look around...but where would I find that which casts discord?/

 

Looking around the city from my saddle, I harkened back to another time amongst my teachers.

 

/The center of a city is reflected in the values of it's people. In some cities this may be a church, in others, a castle. Some of the more renaissance villages have at there heart a marketplace./

 

I rubbed my eyes briefly and muttered to Polaris, "Gods! Sociology was never my long suite. I know the castle, let's see if we can find a church or marketplace in this early hour, and mayhap find the center of this maze that disquiets me so."

 

Separating myself from the castle's perimeter I followed the major traffic ways deeper into the city.

 

Nearing the market place something caught my eye. A grey owl sat on a nearby post watching me with steady, unblinking golden eyes. It looked the worse for wear and I noticed it had a small note tied to its leg.

 

I stared back at the nearby owl. /What is a Bubo doing out here during midmorning?/

 

My eyes went to the note tied to it's leg and then back to it's steady stare. /Wherever it's come from, it must have been far. The poor thing looks like it's made a long journey./ I continued to look at the owl for a moment longer, /Odd way of sending me a message...assuming I am the recipient./

  

Taking off my cloak I wrapped it tight around my left forearm and hand and then extended it toward the owl. "Come hither Bubo."

 

The owl flapped over and landed on my outstretched arm, wrapped safely in the cloak. It blinked once then settled.

 

I recalled what I knew of owls. The list was short. Nocturnal, vermin hunters, "pity I don't have a field mouse for you little guy..." A thought crossed my mind, "then again..."

 

Bringing up the pattern I reached into the saddle bag. Field mice have been known to inhabit stables. Always into everything. Chewing up saddle blankets, nibbling on horse fodder and who knows what else. One of the major reasons farms have cats. This unfortunate mouse must have gotten trapped in the saddle bags. The shifting weight of the saddle must have done it in quite recently. Holding the mouse to the tired looking Owl, I smiled and said, "That note will do you no good Mister Owl. Let us trade."

 

The owl looked at me for a moment, unblinking, then blinked once. An acceptance of the deal. It shifts its weight slightly then reached out and took the mouse, eating it with ferocious efficiency, the hooked beak tearing into the dead mouse. Even as I watched, the owl became sleek again. The dead mouse was consumed steadily by the hungry owl. Finally the gory feast was done and the now recovered owl held the leg with the note to Flavel.

 

I paused in wonderment, /That's one hell of a fast recovery! Not to mention a quite understanding bird.../

 

With narrowed eyes I carefully removed the message. Making a nod to the raptor I let my eyes fall on the message.

 

The message has been carefully folded and sealed. On a blank surface was penned in tiny letters 'Shadoania Livia Caesar adverto auditor'. The seal showed an imprint of a serpent entwined staff.

 

/Hmmm...to the attention of Shado, eh? Serpent entwined staff. A medical dispatch maybe?/ Deciding against breaking the seal I carefully folded and pocketed the note.

 

Yeah, I did think about breaking the seal, but it seemed a stupid way to maintain a friendship.

 

Looking up at the owl I said in Latin, "You were correct in coming to me though I'm not certain how this can be. If your not busy you might wish to come with me. Shado may require of your services if she needs reply."

 

Taking a moment to look around Tintagel I stated, "This other mystery will have to wait."

 

I wheeled Polaris around and headed back to the stables.

 

The journey was not a long one. As I rode, I remembered what Shado had told me about waiting for word from Claudius. Perhaps the seal was Claudius' own symbol?

 

As I journeyed I considered the Owl and it's meaning in Roman lore. Minerva's Pet. Wise watcher. Minerva herself being the goddess of war and wisdom.

 

Arriving at the stables I dismounted and removed the riding gear from Polaris. Ensuring the horse had some fodder and water I took a couple of minutes brushing the horse before sitting down on a bale of hay and rummaging through my trumps.

 

Withdrawing Shado's trump I rested my focus on the icy cold portrait.

 

After a few moments, contact came through. Shado smiled brightly and said "Good day, Flavel. How may I help?"

 

I didn’t focalize my words. Instead I projected my thoughts via the trump.

 

***A messenger arrived. An owl. It bore a sealed note for your attention. Serpent entwined staff. I thought I should contact you via trump even though we are scheduled to meet later today in case this was some sort of trap. The Owl is with me and displays magical properties. Was this the messenger you were expecting?***

 

I was pretty certain it wasn’t a trap but you can’t be too careful.

 

She smiled and replied in kind *Yes, Bubo is a blood-creature. A shape-shifted part of me. Would you bring me through?*

 

My eyes widen at the news that this was a blood creature. From what I recalled of shapeshifters this was the highest level of ability that their kind could possess. Inadvertently I broadcasted *Regina dis permaximus polymorhus* forgetting that I was in trump contact and my thoughts were broadcasting.

 

With a start I collected myself and extended my hand with a rueful grin--handing her the note as she came through.

 

Shado looked around quickly then broke the seal and read the note. Bubo immediately moved to sit on her left shoulder. The expression on her face was serious but calm.

 

She looked up and asked "What is the policy in Amber on visiting forces?"

 

I frowned slightly, "Uh, that would depend on the size of the force, what treaties we have with the host country, and what forewarning we have."

 

Shado bit her lip then said "It would be somewhere in Shadow, they are like to arrive in about a week's time and five legions, plus their families."

 

I did some brief figuring. Five thousand men per legion, plus auxiliaries and supporting levies, with families. I came up with a figure of over 150,000 personnel. I then considered the logistics

required for their operational requirements, food, shelter, sanitation services. Finally, I mulled over the coordination and monitoring of these people.

 

I swallowed. This would wake up the neighborhood.

 

"Will they be appear in a random location or do we have some say as to where they will arrive?"

 

Shado shrugged "They will be arriving wherever the gate brings them through from the Court side. These legions are the ones I normally command. I'm used to setting up camp with them."

 

Without realizing it I began to pace, "Okay. Right. Say about 150,000 people. I'm sure they include engineers and they can fend for themselves. Perishable supplies should last at least nine days time. I need to contact some folks to arrange this as I believe the gate lies within a Golden Circle kingdom. I'll try to work through local channels but sooner or later we'll need to speak with King Oberon."

 

I fanned through my trumps. /Sure am getting a workout with these cards lately./

 

I showed Shado the card that represented Salome. "Her name is Salome. She's the defacto leader of our investigative team concerning shadow storms. She is the one I talked of earlier as having been attacked by one of the Vortexes."

 

I looked at the card intently.

 

Although the card chills, I felt the contact blocked at Salome's end of the link.

 

I pocketed the card with a frown. I remained silent for a time looking like a man considering and discarding possibilities and weighing numerous scenarios and there ramifications. Mostly I considered how much time we would have to react to these guests and who should be contacted.

 

Looking up at Shado I said, "Call blocked. Regardless, we have a week's time which gives us some room to maneuver. Most, if not all of our relatives will be present at the funeral. We can contact Salome at that time. Failing that...we'll start jumping the chain-of-command."

 

Shado nodded "I best return to Arden now. Thank you for your help."

 

I nodded, "Your welcome. I'm sure it will all work out." A look of confusion crossed my face, "How will you be returning to Arden?"

 

Shado withdrew a small green book "By trump." She smiled "I'll see you later." Then in a rainbow swirl,she was gone.

 

I thought my trump deck was thick. Nice idea of using a book.

 

I stretched my neck from side to side. As I did so I made eye contact with my horse, Polaris. Horse and Pattern Lord stared at each other for a moment. Smiling, I said "What are you looking at?"

 

What if Polaris was a shapeshifted agent of chaos? Somebody slap me.

 

I turned and exited the stable not sure wear I was going but wanting to get back out into the morning sunshine.

 

The sun shined warm upon my face. Around me, the palace was quietly busy. Suddenly a child in black robes ran round the corner and, not seeing Flavel, ran straight into me.

 

The attack came fast and low. No time to duck, dodge, or parry. Even as my muscles tensed and my reactions began to take over another part of me locked up as I recalled the encounter with Ryoden. Maybe it was the peaceful interludes in this realm, possibly I realized something wasn't right about the attack. The result was almost comical in it's presentation. I shook and quivered in a state of arrested reactions for a long moment before pushing the child away as gently as I was able.

 

With a voice gone hoarse I asked, "Are you okay?"

 

The child spoke back with a young female voice from deep within the hood of the robe "Yes. I'm dreadfully sorry for running into you like that. Please accept my apology."

 

I smiled tightly as I realized how near I had come to making a serious mistake. I shifted slightly to test the weight of my shoulder bag.

 

"No problem. These things can sometimes happen. A small word of advice as I see your in a hurry. You may wish to consider slowing down or wear a less cumbersome hood."

 

The child nodded then pushed back her hood to reveal the face of a young girl with coal black hair and bright blue eyes. She grinned up at me. "These are the robes of my school and I was running because my guardian sent word that I'm to travel with him for a time and I'm late."

 

I grinned, "I can well understand the constraints of time. I'm Flavel by the way. If you have need of fast transportation I can offer you the services of my horse."

 

The girl smiled and held out her hand in a friendly handshake "Gwen. At least that's what everyone calls me. And it's alright, I'm not far away now. My guardian lives in the palace."

 

We shook hands. Impressed, I arched an eyebrow and nodded slightly. "A pleasure to meet you Gwen. If it's not too forward of me. May I ask as to the name of your guardian? I'd like to meet the person who has raised so courteous a person such as yourself."

 

Gwen smiled "Thank you. My guardian's Corwin and before that Deirdre. She brought me here to Avalon. It's a very nice land, don't you think?"

 

Deirdre. There’s a name that has remained silent for too long. What have you been up to dear aunt?

 

I nodded, "Indeed it is. A land full of wonders and mysteries."

 

Like Gwen and why she was a ward of Corwin’s. Doubtless she probably didn’t even know her real parent’s names. I committed her face to memory. If she didn’t know of her real parents in another century I made a private note to myself to investigate the matter and pull a Benedict of my own.

 

As much as I wanted to stay and chat further with Gwen I knew her absence would not long be overlooked.

 

"Well Gwen, you best run along. I'd hate for you to get into trouble being late." I hesitated a moment and then added, "When you see Corwin wish him well for me."

 

She grinned "I will. It's been nice meeting you Flavel." She then picked up the hem of her robe and raced off again in the direction of the palace.

 

Yup. A real mean streak when it comes to nuances. Wonder what Antonia would say about it? Probably tell me I’m wasting secrets.

 

I watched Gwen run off with some amusement. Happy that the encounter hadn't ended in a catastrophe, and curious as to Corwin's reactions when he discover's yet another secret has been inadvertently exposed...

 

I folded my arms and enjoyed the warm sunlight. "I could grow to like it here."

 

In the distance, I could see Zeta, Richard and the others emerge in to the sunlight. A carriage waited pulled by a team of four greys, along with bay, grey and black horses. Richard mounted the bay stallion and said something to the group. It looks as if the departure group are forming...

 

Seeing the departure group beginning to form I mused to myself, "That would be my cue."

 

I wandered back inside the stable and readied Polaris. \Wish I had my chain-mail on me and maybe a Thessalyian calvary bow.\ I grimaced at the incongruous image of myself in that attire. \Then again, If I start going around looking like that somebody might decide I should be part of the security detail. That wouldn't be fair to either those I would guard or the other members of the detail.\

 

Leading Polaris out of the stables I walked the horse slowly over to the waiting group. Content for the moment in journeying on my own legs.

 

Richard nodded to me as I approached "Good to see you, Flavel. That's a nice steed you have there."

 

I found it in a cracker jack box.

 

Deciding I’d prefer to be at eye level when talking with my peers I mounted my horse. "Thank you Richard. It's something Andrew gemmed up for me."

 

Richard replied "Really? I must compliment him on his taste." He looked round "I assume you know everyone here."

 

I wheeled my horse and looked around at the group. Be and Entienne I had greeted previously this morning though the interchange was very sparse. Zeta I'd met gracelessly and seemed

very terse; doubtless I had offended her. The other woman of coppery brown hair and thin face I'd seen before at the party but no name came to me. Altogether a collection of strangers. /Who of us really knows another?/

 

Interesting to be surrounded by Chaosites. Of course, I’m a chaosite too if I think about it.

 

To Kathy I said, "My Lady, I don't believe I had the pleasure of meeting you. Flavel of Amber at your service."

 

Zeta mounted the black steed and moved to the edge of our gathering watching. Whether it was us or around us I could not tell. I got the impression she could take on a dozen of me with that blade of hers.

 

Kathy nodded to me as she got up on the grey. Now on the same height as myself, she answered my question, in a friendly tone. "I'm Commander Kathy York, one of your escorts to Amber, Sir." She wheeled the horse round, getting the feel of it and nodded to Zeta to indicate she was ready to depart.

 

Commander? Military title. I wondered to which she swore service.

 

Be also nodded friendly to me and then walked to the carriage. He opened the door, and quickly looked inside to see if anybody already had entered the vehicle. Seeing no-one, he motioned for Etienne to come and alight inside. The two got inside.

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