There came a rapping on the door. I knew that knock. Precise in its sequence, like everything she does. Fiona had come to pay me a visit. A memory came to me of that same tap such a relatively short time ago when she came to me in Shadow and brought me back to Amber. I wonder where she’ll send me now?

"A moment please."I called to the door.

I set my drink down on the desk and ran my fingers through my hair. Walking over to the mirror I rotated it such that it's reflective surface faced the wall. No need to advertise unusual properties scattered around the room.

After such minor precautions I opened the door, looking only slightly wild eyed and
disheveled. I could only wonder what she wanted to speak to me about. Mother’s are always observant in regards their children’s ways, but when it came to Fiona she’d know I was up to something en passant. Maybe with more kids on the scene her attention would be split up a bit.

Fiona looked back calmly and asks wryly "Should I call back later or would you be willing to discuss some matters now?"

In a neutral voice I replied, "Please come in." I indicated a chair for her and I walked back to my desk. When she spoke wryly that could only mean she’d been waiting. Which in turn meant she’d most likely overheard some of my monologue. Her presence here was going to be a fun interview no doubt.

Fiona walked in closing the door behind her and sat in the chair indicated. "Oberon has a task for you."

I nodded, "Yes, to be an independent observer at the treaty negotiations, and to work with Salome, Daniel, and Kit on the Vortex phenomena which now seems to involve a gate. I've done some prepetory work with Daniel and Salome on the gate project. As much as any of us can do given the necessities of state functions that have recently transpired."

Fiona smiled slightly, "I refer to another task after the treaty. Given your expertise, my father believes you would be best placed as leader of the team dealing with certain Roman friends who may be joining us."

I took the news like a rock. Inwardly I pondered furiously, How did Oberon discover the legions were coming? Security was very tight. Shado, myself, and just recently Salome and Daniel. He either has his own sources in the white flame court or we
are being monitored very carefully. Probably the former but I cannot rule out the latter...maybe I should tell Shado to skip the briefing tomorrow. News does indeed travel fast...

Something else bothered me. Fiona's choice of words, 'my father believes you would be best...'

I wonder if there may be a difference of opinion between Oberon and Fiona. If so what could it be? Impossible to verify.

So I tossed out some words of agreement hoping she’d further illuminate this task and the issues surrounding it. "Very good. It's a project I am already well aquainted with. May I
ask who I will be leading on this diplomatic foray?"

Fiona replied, "The other team members so far are Clovis and Shado, though not all have been informed of this yet. Your liason with Amber will be Bleys."

May the far-darter strike me down! Clovis and Bleys? I thought with dismay. At least Shado will be nearby. I can count on her counsel in these matters. And to be fair both Clovis and Bleys may be necessary. So many unknowns...

"It sounds like a formidable group" to work with; I added silently, before I continued on to say, "I look forward to our success. If I may entertain an unrelated question. Marielle's daughter, Zelda. Do you know her status? I promised Random I'd find out for him."

Fiona's lips quirked in amusement, "Zelda? She is fine and settled in quarters though she did seem a tad disappointed that her obvious attraction to Bleys is not returned."

I chuckled, "I'm sure Bleys is responsible for half the broken hearts in Amber. Zelda is probably better off not getting involved in such a overwelming presence."

I paused briefly then said lightly, "Strange how even in the midst of crisis and ominous threats to our realm romance continues unabated. I guess it's true what the poets say, that there's always time for love."

Fiona smiled, "Indeed. Threat does tend to heighten emotions though. And as for Bleys... yes he is a master of flirtation if he so chooses, but as for love I've only seen him succumb to that emotion but once."

Then he was probably only burned once. I’ll bet there’s a story there.

Looking at Fiona, I decided I was on dangerous ground. Better, maybe, to bring the conversation back to more familiar territory. "What are Oberon's instructions concerning our Roman friends? Does he wish us to make them welcome? Are we to keep them contained near the gate or are we to move them to a specific place?"

Fiona replied, "Bleys has those instructions, not I. Father is keeping the information in very directed channels."

That explains Fiona's attitude. If there’s anything that Fiona takes issue with is being on the sidelines...or not having access to information.

"I'm sure he has his reasons. So what do you think of this White Flame business? I have so recently become aquainted with the Courts of Chaos and now this whole new realm opens before us. It never ceases to amaze me that a person can study the cosmology and physics of the multiverse and still be blind-sided with new revelations."

Fiona smiled, "One of the nicer aspects of cosmology I agree. I find the timing interesting certainly."

The ambiguity of this conversation dazzles me. What timing?

"If Vaille is involved in making predictions I would hazard that the timing of things will happen as ordained. I already had a brief foreshadowing that Clovis, and I would be working together. So it should come as no surprise to me."

Fiona's smile only increased, "Ah but Flavel, I was referring more to the timing of our Roman friends."

"I think the timing is extremely fortunate for us. If they had arrived when our numbers were diffused through shadows it would be cause for much concern."

I wonder how many of them are spies? These legions are the harbinger of a civil war, and in all civil wars spies are numerous. If we don't contain them somehow certain elements of them could sow confusion and sabotage in our midst...

"I fail to perceive anything unusual with the timing of their arrival...unless--"

Again my thoughts kicked into overdrive. A not uncommon practice when I’m around my elders. Keeping up with their thinking often pushes my mental processes to an extreme. "It does seem rather strange that they will arrive right after the treaty negotiations. I wonder if Oberon is playing more then one game here. After all, the sudden appearance of these Roman friends could be construed as a bit of saber rattling to
certain members of the Courts. Whatever the king's motives, I'm fairly certain he is at least partly behind the timing."

Fiona nodded, "Possibly. However, I find it interesting that the White Flame should rear its head as younger members of the family are attacked by an unknown force, both vortices and otherwise."

I nodded carefully, "I've tripped over that hypothesis more then once. I originally thought these activities were of central origin. Then decided that they were separate issues. Now I wonder. It's difficult to correlate all the data without first understanding the source of each of the issues. They may or may not be related. You are correct though. The parallel nature of these attacks lends one to suspicion. I will endeavor to keep in contact with the activities of my peers. Oberon's emphasis on separate channels is admirable from a security standpoint, but without all the pieces we will be hard pressed to understand the breath and scope of this puzzle, or puzzles."

Fiona nodded, "Now, do you want to tell me what is stressing you in particular?"  

So much for her overlooking my activities. Impossible to fool her, but I might be able to sidetrack her thinking...

I smiled and said with a measure of nonchalance, "Your concern is noted. However there is little to worry about presently. Stress is something each of us understands very well. There is a newness to many of the activities I have recently experienced. Doubtless I will adjust. I find it overall a growing experience for me. For instance, I saw the Logrus recently. I found it both attractive and simultaneously repelling. I am giving some thought as to whether or not I wish to negotiate it."

Fiona replied calmly, "You should talk to your father about that. He has more experience with it than I. Now, what are these other activities whose newness is causing you such stress?"

So much for sidetracking, time for a measure of obfuscation.

I shrugged, "There has been a great number of people I have met recently. Quite a few unknowns and the possibilities are without number. Hence, I find myself distracted by introspections on occasion. Tracking anthropic variables is most difficult."

Fiona nodded, "Difficult, but not impossible. How do you find your various new relatives?"

I smiled tightly, "That spans quite a range mother. Oddly enough, the ones most difficult are the easiest to deal with. It is the friendships that confuse me the most. As comical as it might appear, I have not had to work through such issues before. I also find myself the eldest amongst brother and sister. I have not yet explored what commitments and duties may lie in this area."

Fiona nodded, "Sibling relationships can be difficult I agree." She withdrew a trump from her pocket and handed it to me. "Yours I believe. Anthony recovered it from the debris."

I was expecting something like that. Bleyss’ dismissal of my security concern had pointed towards my elders having covered for me. As much as I disliked people cleaning up my messes, I couldn’t really afford to have missing trumps.

I pocketed the trump. "My thanks to the both of you." Not for the last time I considered what a double-edge thing trumps were. Maybe there might be a way to circumnavigate their material nature some day.

Fiona was quiet for a moment then said, "You know that I am currently treating Kit?"

Nice way of bringing up nebulous subject.

"Such has been explained to me. I have stayed away given her delicate situation at present. It's not like mending a bone. If you think my presence would be of assistance, I will come."

For once, Fiona seems hesitant "As loathe as I am to pry into your personal affairs, there is something we must discuss. Your presence may or may not help Kit depending on how you feel about her. How do you see Kit?"

How do I feel about her indeed! I’d only known a very few people who could muddle my thinking. Her strength of will, combined with a personality that was so wacky had me continuously on edge. Difficult to essay ones feelings involving such a presence.

"A volatile personality. Also, very strong willed. She can beacon a storm, contact people from other realms, and confuse me with her actions. She is also friendly, personable and damnably naive and innocent. She is, I think, a friend, and a scary one at that."

Fiona considered then answered, "Then no, your presence would not help and indeed might worsen the situation. She has been unstable for some time as far as I can determine and has developed something of an infatuation where you are concerned. You should also acquire a trump blocker. Your image was quite clear in her mind as was Salome's and
Daniel's, both of whom have been attacked via trump."

I fell silent for a moment, weighing possibilities.

"Is there something other then a trump blocker that I could use? I've never been attacked via trump so I'm not certain what range of actions I could take in such a situation. Perhaps a poison tooth that would render me instantaneously unconscious? I must confess a trump blocker worries me. As royalty we eat, drink, and sleep communication. As a project leader people may need to contact me in a hurry. I don't like the idea of being offline."

Fiona nodded, "Focusing on one's own trump bolsters the defence against an attack considerably though it may not be enough in the worst cases."

"I'll endeavor to keep my card nearby when accepting trump contacts then. In the mean time I will check with the dispensory and see if there is any apothecaric solution that would render me unconscious at a moment's notice if the situation warrants. If I find no ready remedy, I will accept a trump blocker as a lesser of two evils."

***

I was in the infirmary having recently been fitted with a pellet capable of rendering me unconscious when I felt the stirring of a trump contact. I looked up and accepted the contact. My card I held near at hand in case something 'unusual" might occur.

*Flavel, its me Dokiel, I need you to pull me and two others through..........*

I immediately extended my hand *by all means*

Interesting that I’d only met my younger brother recently and all ready he was needing a favor.

Dokiel grabbed my hand and pulled Xel and Gwen with him to where I was. In a rainbow swirl, Dokiel, Xel and Gwen appear beside me.

Xel blinked and looked around. He nodded to me and said, "Xel."

Dokiel scanned the room.

I essayed a short bow, "Flavel Abastillas, son of Fiona. A pleasure to meet you Xel."

"Likewise, son of Sand," he gave a slight smile. "This is Gwen, she is mostly the reason we're here, I guess," he looked to Dokiel for an explanation.

Dokiel replied to Xel, "This is my brother, I have a feeling he can tell us something about what happened."

Gwen smiled in my direction, "Hello again Flavel."

To which I turned my attention toward the young girl. "Good to see you Gwen."

Dokiel said, "Sorry for bothering you, but we have a problem. We were in Rebma wandering around and seeing the sights, when we came across a hall filled with mirrors. While I was looking at the magical make-up of the mirrors Xel used his own power to help me. Well, someone reached a hand through and grabbed Gwen and pulled her into the mirror. I cast a protective spell on Xel and I while he pressed the mirror again in an attempt to get her back. She came back a second later and with her the laughter of a strange man. I thought you might be able to help us."

Flavel nodded, "It sounds like a variant of the hall of mirrors that can sometimes confound us here in the castle. This strange man. What did he look like?"

Gwen shrugged, "I don't know, but we saw us bringing someone else though a fountain." She added "Is that important?"

Dokiel did a quick casting and replayed the scene for Flavel.

I saw the mirrored room flicker as Xel and Dokiel stood together and Gwen burst through a mirror into the room to the sound of laughter.

Dokiel then replayed the scene at the fountain.

As we watched, Gwen in the image leaned too far over, and fell into the fountain with a splash of bubbles. The image then showed Dokiel and Xel reaching into the fountain and pulling out Gwen and what looked like another teenager.

Gwen added, "That's all we got of that scene."

I frowned. "The hall of mirrors is somewhat random in it's presentation of elements. It's usually personal to the viewer, although sometimes I think it's much akin to randomly making trump contacts. You can never know who or what you might contact."

Gwen replied, "There are a lot of scrying objects in Rebma from what we saw."

Dokiel took a seat and rested apparently needing to catch his breath.

Gwen said, "Flavel, do you have a trump of Rebma?"

I shuffled through my thick deck of cards. At length I extracted a scene of an underwater staircase. "Apparently so. Haven't been back there in quite awhile."

Gwen nodded, looking enthusiastic "Let's go back. We just avoid that room."

I paused, "Okay, I do seem to be between activities. Everybody stay close." I focused on the card.

In a rainbow swirl, we appeared on the stairway, Rebma green and dreamlike beneath them. Gwen ran back down the stairs. "Come on. I can see it from here!"

Dokiel rushed to follow, and I followed distantly.

I hope my notebooks survive this little underwater jaunt, I thought with a pang.

In short order, we found the fountain of bubbles...

*******

Upon reaching the fountain Dokiel looked in to see if anyone was
there.

Staring back at Dokiel was a gangly youth with a mess of curly floppy red hair. He looks rather not dressed for the underwater kingdom, wearing a green turtleneck and some black silk slacks with sequined stars in them.

Gwen turned to Dokiel and said, "What do we do now?"

"Follow the vision," replied Dokiel.

Gwen reached out, overbalanced....

"Er..um...hello..." Acting initiatively, the boy in the fountain put out a hand to
catch Gwen if she fell. Likewise, Dokiel moved his hand as fast as he could in an effort to grab her..

Gwen caught the stranger’s hand and appeared beside him, soaking wet.

Looking into the fountain I could see Gwen now chatting to the teenage boy. After which she extended her hand to Dokiel, and he pulled the both of them back into Rebma.

The young teenager appeared quite surprised to be able to breathe underwater. He began looking around in wonderment at the small jewel-bright fish that darted around like butterflies and ornamental sea-plants waving slowly in the current. Everywhere he was amazed at the color and movement, the slow grace that was Rebma.

The redheaded boy looked at me, blankly...

Gwen grinned "This is Flavel and this is Dokiel. What's your name?"

"Uh..woah, you can talk here? Um, I'm Milo. Pleased to meet you." Milo tried to blow bubbles without success..

"Welcome Milo. It’s a pleasure to meet you." replied Gwen.

Milo looked like he was suffering a dream and was game to play it out.

Gwen asked, "What is it you normally do?"

"Er...I'm a wizard. A very powerful one," he added, trying to look impressive.

Gwen looked wide-eyed "Are you really? That must be why you needed to be brought through."

Dokiel must have probed Milo with his sorcery for he said, "He seems to have much potential in the art."

"Er...why? Are you wizards?" asked Milo.

I decided that Milo appeared almost too calm, as if this wasn’t really happening to him, but more as if he is playing a game or dreaming.

"You might say that." said Dokiel.

I normally don’t bother to correct the opinions and attitudes of shadow dwellers. There was never much percentage in that pastime. In Milo’s case I decided to take an exception. It seemed Dokiel and Gwen had taken a shine to him. So I cleared my throat and mentioned, "This is all quite real."

Gwen shook her head "Not yet. I'm at sorcery school though."

"That is true, and I'll be attending this year as well to round out
my studies." said Dokiel.

"Oh, so, you're all apprentice mages...and you've summoned me to show
you some real magic?" said Milo.

With that Dokiel started chuckling.

"Of course this is all real, sir...here, let me show you..." said Milo.

Gwen laughed too "No, I told you. A mirror showed us this happening."

"So......" He pulled back his sleeve. "Nothing up my sleeve, right?"

I did my best to hide my amusement, part of me feeling like a chaperone.

Gwen shook her head, "No Flavel means all this is real. Right Flavel?"

"Ooo, a magic mirror! I know a spell that can do that, too. But this one's more flashy. Even underwater." Dokiel muttered a word and 8 more of him appeared.

I nodded, "More or less real. Real enough."

Milo was shocked and jumped back...almost falling into the fountain.

Gwen grabbed his hand and pulled him back just in time. "We just pulled you out, please don't jump back in."

"What say we go to dry land to continue this conversation." said Dokiel.

Milo said, "Woah...sorry."

The eight replicas disappeared.

Gwen nodded, "I vote for beach."

Milo seemed to look a bit confused..

I said, "Dry land might be more conducive to conversation." I glanced at Dokiel, "If we can keep the pyrotechnics to a minimum."

Grinning, Dokiel said, "There wasn't any pyro just a little illusion."

"Yah...a really super fast duplication spell...and eight copies! My master could only get three." Milo sounded impressed.

Gwen nodded and smiled reassuringly at Milo, "You could come to school with us if you like."

"Er...school? I've already had a couple of years of apprenticeship." replied Milo.

I pulled out a trump card, "If everyone would gather round, I'll see us back in the courtyard. Milo, your welcome to come along. If you find yourself unable to stay long we can arrange to send you back."

I wondered at the wisdom of bringing Milo along. Still, if he was seen in a scrying fountain in Rebma, he probably had some sort of metaphysical reason for being here. The universe turned strangely and we could only do our best to turn with it.

"Well, okay. Thank you, sir wizard." said Milo.

Gwen nodded and took my arm, and held out her hand to Milo, "Yes, our school's the best at teaching all sorts of magic. Wait until you meet our family."

Milo smiled..

I chuckled, "I'm not a wizard, I'm just your basic garden variety Lord of Creation." With that I concentrated and in a prismatic burst of color everyone found themselves in the Amber castle courtyard.

Water dripped off us all yet dried quickly enough in the spring sunshine. Gwen asked me, "What should we do now? You're a Prince here after all."

Milo pinched himself. "This is all real...?" He stared around at Amber's courtyard.

I turned to Milo, "Welcome to Amber. The true reality of the multiverse. It doesn't get much more real then this."

"Maybe I'll teach you my version of the spell if you stay long enough." Dokiel smiled jovially at Milo.

"Er...thanks...This..um. Okay." replied Milo.

I looked around at the group. "Perhaps conversation would best be facilitated over lunch. If you'll all follow me..." I began to walk into the keep.

Dokiel patted Milo on the back and followed.

Milo followed quietly.

Gwen nodded, "That's a good idea. I'm really hungry." and ran after us.

***

At a lunch arranged by yours truly, Dokiel sat with Milo and Xel, who we met up with en route. Gwen had been collared by Corwin on the way so was absent from the table as was myself being debriefed by Corwin.

Sitting nearby the three teenage boys availed themselves to a lavish lunch spread...

******

Corwin sat opposite me over a lunch table, Gwen had been sent to have a hot bath and was cleaning up before lunch.

Corwin sipped some wine, "So what happened in Rebma?"

Still slightly damp from the Rebma weather I enjoyed a cup of hot tea in the early afternoon sun.

"It's difficult to say initially. Dokiel, my brother, contacted me via trump asking for the group to be brought through. I was in the infirmary at the time getting a...prescription filled. They seemed somewhat agitated. Apparently they had stumbled upon Rebma's
equivalent of the Hall of Mirrors. Rebma being quite famous for its plethora of scrying devices and such. There seemed to have been a moment's confusion where somebody from one of the mirrors had pulled Gwen through. Nobody seems to know what that was about though Gwen seemed to think it fun. It might have been Milo in fact."

I discreetly pointed to the lanky adolescent sitting at a nearby table.

"Gwen wanted to go back so I thought it wise to make the journey with them. Once back we met Milo and chatted for a bit. Seems he's something of a sorceror's apprentice to one degree or another. Gwen invited him to join the school at Tintagel."

I took a sip of my tea and glanced at the young crowd nearby. "One begins to feel old in their company."

Corwin chuckled, the sound rich and deep. "Try being my age." He grew more serious "Gwen is unhurt. That's something. I think it's probably a good idea if she goes back early though."

I nodded, my countenance thoughtful, "I'm glad I never learned of my potential until I had reached my majority. It must be very different to be so young and carry such power."

Corwin nodded, "Deirdre was unwise to push the child into it. More so given that we don't know Gwen's parents."

I blinked at the news of Gwen's unknown parentage. "That's quite a reversal. Normally it's the kids who don't know who their parents are. Can't say this is much of an improvement. Although I'm more inclined to think somebody knows and isn't speaking. Pity. Gwen deserves more then to be unclaimed luggage. Though that isn't quite
accurate, is it? You've done quite well by her from everything I can see. I look forward to seeing her grow of age. She has the earmarks of being someone quite formidable."

As I spoke I penned a brief letter and borrowed a candle to wax a seal, waving the letter briefly to cool, I inscribed on the backside the name Random and handed it off to a servant.

"I'd nearly forgotten Random awaited news of Zelda."

Corwin nodded, "Mirelle's child. And yes, I made Gwen my ward. I have my suspicions about her parentage though after this funeral."

I smiled, "I might be curious but I've had enough discoveries involving family to last me awhile. It's not every day I come upon a father, brother, and sister. In the final analysis it will be Gwen's heart that will decide who her parents are. In that, I'm certain that you and Dierdre will take first place."

Corwin smiled a little, "Thank you. Tir is up tonight. I daresay with the current crop of young Amberites, a fair few discoveries may be made over the next few days."

At the mention of Tir I dropped the tea I was holding. The porcelain cup shattered as it hit the floor. I waved off a servant that rushed forward and I gingerly retrieved the broken pieces, as much to hide my own reactions, as to give myself a moment to think.

How the devil did he know to about my business with Tir? No use deflecting or denying the truth of what he said. I must advertise my attentions on the back of my cloak.

Holding the broken shards in my hand I said to Corwin. "I only hope the dreams fare better then the teacup."

Corwin nodded, his eyes understanding "Watch yourself up there. It can be tricky at the best of times."

I carefully set the remains of the cup on the corner of the table and wiped my hands on a napkin. "Not one of my favorite places to reside within. The images Tir conjurs tends to be...disturbing. But I think I'd rather delve in prophecy then have others look into such
affairs for me. Manipulate or be manipulated."

Corwin nodded, "I rarely use Tir myself, but it can be useful at times. Prophecy is a tricky beast at the best of times though."

"Agreed. A person can spend all their time either avoiding destiny or trying to fulfill it. I'd rather be my own person when I can. Sometimes, though, we need every edge we can get. Hence Tir."

My gaze went to the window to the pastoral scenery it invited. "Were you also considering making such a sojourn?"

Meanwhile, at the other table, Andrew finished his lunch and said quietly to Flavel "I have to head off now, but it was nice meeting you again. You too, Uncle Corwin. If Ryo asks, tell her there's something I needed to take care of." He stood, nodded to both of
us then slipped quietly out.

Corwin smiled wryly, "Now, there's a kid who's planning something. I wonder what though?"

I smiled as well, "Probably off to walk the pattern or some such similar lunacy."

I know he’d been wanting to see that monstrosity for some time. He’d questioned me earlier about it and coupled with the fact that his father was Eric, it seemed only a matter of time. Would he go about it recklessly or was he going to seek additional information? He didn’t seem the type to just tackle anything blindly. Still, he was a lord of Chaos and unpredictability seemed to be one of their calling cards.

Corwin shook his head "I hope the kid knows what he's doing. If the Logrus and the Pattern can't be combined... messy. Eric won't be happy. Talking of impulsive children, time for me to go and arrange for an escort home for a certain young lady. I'll see you later, Flavel."

Corwin stood and nodded to me before he too left the dining room.

I stood briefly and returned Corwin’s nod, before sitting back down. I pulled out a journal and spent a couple minutes writing in it. Normally my literary interests were relegated to the evenings but my schedule of late had been shot to Tartarus. Eventually I put my journal away and wandered over to where the younger crowd was gathered.

Taking an empty seat, I helped myself to a sandwich and listened.

Ryoden noticed me, and smiled broadly. "Flavel! HI! How are you doing? Oh, by the way, that thing we were going to do? We don't have to do it anymore. I did it already, and don't care to do it again."

I didn’t bother asking the why or what the result of her experiments were. Ryoden being something like Kit, she’d probably leave me dizzy if I asked.

Xel also appeared to listen while the sorcerers chatted about things. Before long Ryoden took off with Milo and Dokiel absented himself, leaving me with Xel. He picked up a croussant turkey sandwich and chomped down. Smiling slightly and nodded in my direction, "It seems that we are all that's left of the lunch, more for us, hm?" he smiled wider and finished the sandwich. He sat back in his chair and cracked his knuckles, "Rebma sure is full of suprises, I'm still wondering just who that man was. I just haven't been here long enough, what about you? Have you lived here all your life?" he asked, glancing back and forth between myself and the Milo-Ryoden pair walking off into the
city.

So maybe this man they reported seeing wasn’t Milo after all. File that with the jeweled serpent under unknowns.

"I've lived here maybe two years time this past century. Mostly I've been away in shadow," I replied.

I took an empty chair and filled a glass from a pitcher of water. "But two years here can feel like a century so I imagine that balances out. Events happen thick and fast here in the true realm."

Sipping my water I looked over at Xel. "So what do you think of Amber?"

Rule #43 of Amber intrigue; always return a question with a question or you’ll lose control of the conversation.

Xel shrugged, "It's nice, although I can see why everyone wants to go into shadow. I'm sure all this activity will die down eventually. I'll meet all the elders soon, then I'll be left to study the Pattern for years to come..." he trailed off, smiled and shifted in his seat, "What do you do here to stay occupied?"

I smiled and continued to eat steadily, "It varies tremendously. I've sworn service to the king so he gifts me with things to do from time to time. In between there's library research that takes up some of my time. I write missives and odd bits of philosophical lore. Mostly I've been away in shadow where I conduct my own affairs."

Of course asking questions tends to provide more information to the listener then the interrogator many times. It all depends on the conversation.

Xel nodded in understanding. "What is King Oberon like? I haven't met him yet,"

I chuckled, "Your asking the wrong person. I've only met Oberon once very long ago. His instructions to me are delivered through intermediaries. Perhaps you should seek a royal audience sometime? The king does enjoy seeing new members or royalty; or so I've heard."

Xel laughed. "I might just do that, maybe get a few orders here and there." He set his
sandwich down and sip a carbonated beverage. "He doesn't make too many appearance does he?" Xel asked while looking at me with a warm smile.

"I wouldn't know about that. It's could be that he would join us for lunch if he felt so inclined. However, given the sudden increase in activities that has besieged Amber of recent. I would be surprised to find him anywhere but in his throneroom where he can best direct affairs."

Xel nodded, rested his head on his free hand. He quickly discarded the hand, and chuckled at himself. "What kinds of activities are you talking about? Besides
the funeral," he asked.

Just then Fiona breezed into the dining room. She focused on us and headed over "Flavel, your father wishes to see you tomorrow about your training in sorcery. He believes you would be a good candidate for it." She then focused on Xel "And you are Xel. My rooms tomorrow at ten. I will begin your instruction in Pattern then.

Flavel will tell you what I expect from you."

She nodded towards me , a touch of warmth briefly in the cool green eyes, before she left as efficiently as she came.

Sorcery? What an interesting idea. I never much cared one way or another about that art. It had it’s uses but it wasn’t very strong as powers go. Still, it could certainly improve my flexibility..and if my parents thought it important to delve into that could only mean the clouds on the horizon had grown darker.

I nodded slightly to Fiona, a look of fondness in my eyes. Turning back to Xel I said with some amusment, "You were asking as to activities?"

Xel gulped, "Yes, I was, as to what activities you were talking about before."

A moment later Dierdre arrived accompanied by a young man.

Dierdre said, "Flavel, Xel, how pleasant to see you. This is my son, Pagan.".

I turned to face Dierdre and Pagan with a look of open neutrality with a dash of good will thrown in. "A pleasure to meet you Pagan. Xel and I were just talking about how good it is meeting our relatives. Your arrival is fortuitous to the topic on hand." 

That was patently a lie. But I was interested to see how Xel would react to my comment. It wasn’t like I couldn’t talk my way out of it if he proved recalcitrant in how I directed the conversation.

Pagan looked at me. "I am glad I could be of use. I haven't had the pleasure of meeting to many of you yet." He looked around the room. "So is there a special event or just Tuesday?"

Xel smiled ever-so-slightly and stood, shaking the hand of Pagan. As everyone seated themselves Xel asked Dierdre, "Aunt Dierdre, has everything been sorted out with Queen
Moira and Gwen?"

I in turn, replied directly to Pagan, "We had a funeral and a wake today. Not exactly typical Tuesday affairs...or at least I hope it doesn't grow to _become_ common. So little has been normal of late in the kingdom that such things as routines and schedules have all but disappeared."

Deirdre nodded toward Xel, "For the moment, certainly. I'll be taking Gwen and
Dokiel back with me tomorrow I believe to Tintagel."

Xel nodded, "Dokiel just left, although I don't know why." He looked a little perplexed, but kept his face relatively neutral. "I hope I can watch Gwen play in that game she told me about...forgot the name..." he said.

Deirdre smiled, "You should be able to if you wish. I will be allowing Gwen's old instructors to attend as well. Given the time of the treaty negotiations, the game of monter should provide some light entertainment to the delegates."

Xel smiled as well, "The game sounds very rough, nothing compared to what I grew up with." He shifts in his seat slightly and glanced at his plate. "Football, if you're wondering. Fun game, but too many rules, regulations, and pads. I was thinking we could get a game going here. Do you think your brothers, maybe even your sisters would go for that?" he grinned.

Deirdre smiled, "Monter. Like shinty or hockey, but given that it's played by the young mages of Corwin's school for mages, it can get very lively indeed. Gwen is your uncle's ward."

Deirdre chuckled, "Oh yes, your uncles have played. Your Aunt Flora was even a cheerleader for a time. Corwin was a running back. Eric was a defensive back. Random was a free safety. Gerard was a centre.Bleys was unsurprisingly a quarterback. Caine was a linebacker. Julian was a wide receiver and Benedict was an offensive
coordinator."

Xel stifled a laugh, nearly spilling his drink. "Well I'll be damned!" he said in disbelief. "Well then we'll definately play an eight on eight game, with all the cousins of mine around..." he said. "When do you think we could play, day-after-tomarrow? What
else besides the treaty negotiations is going on?" he asked.

Deirdre smiled and took her seat. She smiled and answered Xel, "Oh yes, before I forget Brand was a kicker. As to a match, why don't you organize one? Today is a bad day to do so, but tomorrow should be fine. And during the treaty would also be a good idea."

She smiled at Pagan and I, "Have you ever tried American Football?"

Pagan took the seat to her left. "Once, the rules never seemed to make much sense. An it seemed to be a prelude to drinking an screaming. It was a good game." He took a plate and started to serve himself. Offering the platters an bowls to Deirdre first. "You have mentioned a treaty a couple times. I am a little out of the loop on that. Mind bringing me up to speed?" He poured her a glass of wine.

Deirdre sips the wine and said, "Better than I, why not let the one appointed to be Amber's neutral observer at the treaty explain? Flavel, if you would please?"

For a half moment, I stared back at Dierdre.

An excellent method to pry information, I will have to remember this technique.

I shrugged, and with a fluid gesture rose out of my chair to stand with eyes unfocussed and a voice steady and even in it's intonation. Lecturing was second nature to me. It came from my days working in Lemuria. I might or might not go into explaining that period of time some day.

"The peace treaty between the Courts of Chaos, and the Kingdom of Amber was established with certain safeguards and controls in place to penalize any one group in the event the articles were violated. These safeguards included hostage taking. Said hostages include the Lady-"

I paused briefly, and decided that random name dropping wouldn’t do. The Lady Zeta didn’t appear to know her special status when I’d met her. She could become horribly embarrassed if the information became known. "Perhaps I shouldn't get into such details. Suffice to say, one of the hostages was a certain young Amber noble named Duncan. He was recently killed whilst in Silvermere. It was his wake that we were attending earlier today. He was Amber's hostage from the Courts of Chaos. With his loss the Courts declared grievance and demanded a reworking of the treaty. Doubtless the Courts will also request some form of redress for their loss. Fortunately the hostages in the Courts care were not retaliated against, though this was within their rights. It seems these
individuals were taken whilst very young and they may or may not even be aware of their special status. Being raised in a manner opposite their heritage they have taken on many of the characteristics of the realms they grew of age in. I speculate that this integration with their jailers had the side-affect of said jailers finding a contractual killing to be tantamount to kinslaying."

I stooped to a little knife twisting in Dierdre’s direction. I probably wasn’t going to make many points doing this, but I didn’t want her to think she could wholesale information out of me without any discomfort.

I smiled at Dierdre, "Historically it seems the abductions of the children who would be hostages was something of a sore point amongst elders. A dirty business motivated by political neccessities whose background became fear."

I pivoted my head in thought, "But I digress, you wished information on the negotiations. They will span a couple of days. I'm not privy to the exact agenda being nothing more then an impartial observor. However, I would imagine that the first day will be introductions, followed by the agrieved party stating their issues formally. Followed by the opposite party describing mitigating circumstances and the whys and wherefors. Something like a court of law. I could be wrong. These issues may already have been worked out in some back room dealings. Hard to say. Some of Chaos and Amber have very close relations. I'm proof enough of that."

"Beyond this, I am uncertain what will transpire. Depending how the negotiations progress new terms and conditions will probably be added to the current treaty, with amendments and footnotes being debated and haggled over."

I smiled at Pagan, "Then again, it may be decided that both Amber and Chaos have grown too fond of their respective hostages. Perhaps we will need new hostages to be exchanged?"

Xel smiled and said, "Sounds interesting, I'll try to get the game going. Where would
you be Aunt Dierdre?"

Deirdre smiled, "Oh I have other matters to attend to, but you can be sure I'll be around. Flavel, would you be a dear and introduce Pagan around later?"

I nodded, "Certainly your highness, it would be a pleasure."

Also a chore I was very familiar with...

After Xel left, Deirdre too rose and said, "Have fun you two. There are a few yet I need to catch up with." She smiled and left Pagan and myself alone. At least, we were alone for the moment. Amber’s breakfast table is probably one of the most socially involved places in the castle.

Pagan stood up as his mother left the table. "Stay in touch." He smiled at her as she left. Then returned to his seat. Looking at me. "Well cousin. What kind of trouble do you want to get into?" He asked with a wicked grin.

I smiled slightly, "I'm already deeply involved in troubles."

I came to a bizarre decision and stood up abruptly. "Have you seen the archery lanes?"

I’m not sure why I wanted to visit the archery lanes. It’s not normally one of the places I’d pick for having conversation. Maybe that was why I chose such a destination. A little more randomness in my behavior might deflect my elders, or perhaps I’d meet elders I’d normally miss. Whatever.

"No. I am not the best archer. Give me the tour." He stood and waited. "An you can fill me in on the trouble you are in. May be I can't help you out of it."

"Difficult to explain without digging into some esoteric histories of many people, and an elaborate explanation of the cosmology of the realms. Actually though, much of this will be covered in a briefing very soon. If you don't plan to stay for the negotiations you may
consider being around for the mornings introductions. They promise to be most instructive."

I led Pagan through the castle, taking time to point out various pieces of artwork.

Out back into adjacent fields of shortly cropped grass we came upon the archery lanes some distance away. Large tents had been erected and soldiers milled about. Some shooting, some adjusting and repairing they're equipment, more then a few talking in clustered groups.

Pagan followed. Between my brief tour he said. "I am not sure if I will be here for the whole of it or not. But I will make the effort. So do you shoot?" He asked nodding to
the lanes, and paused a second to watch an archer on line. The archer hit the first ring nearly 200 yards away..

I smiled as I replied, "Very rarely do I ever shoot. But I do spend a lot of time aiming."

Numerous bows of a wide variety were on display aswe stepped into the tent. A range officer and armorer seemed to be examining one of the bows. As the we made our entrance the range officer handed the bow back to the armorer.

The officer, a short man with a wide dark mustache bowed, "My lords, how can we be of service?"

At the other side of the tent, a man looked up. A tall, powerfully built man with coal black hair and the strong, lean hands of a swordsman. His eyes were a pale grey reminding me of stormy skies. He is dressed in black. A fine rapier hangs at his side. There is the impression of one who quietly enjoyed life, yet there was also an undercurrent of grimness, a hard edge to the polished gentleman. I recognized the man as Logan, Eric's oldest son.

He smiled and walked over "Hello, Flavel. I decided to visit the range myself." He turned to Pagan and held out his hand "Good afternoon. I'm Logan Drake."

Pagan took the offered hand. "I am Pagan. Nice to meet you." He looked the man over.

Logan shook Pagan's hand then said to us both,"So how does the day find you, cousins?"

Pagan smiled. "A little out of my element, but not to badly all the same."

Pagan looked to me and then back to Logan. "Mommy popped in and invited me to lunch. Then took off before even having a bite to eat." He smiled. "Do all of our parents act like that, or is it just me?"

I selected a longbow from the rack of assorted missile weapons. I appraised the weapon dispassionately, reviewing it's weight and suppleness as I replied, "The elders have a tremendous agenda of projects, tasks, and responsibilities to shoulder. Their prodigy being just another variable in the complex equations they must balance. If your parents
have spent but a few moments pointing you in a particular direction or tossing you some advice, consider yourself fortunate."

I slipped on a wrist guard and quiver of arrows and began to move toward one of the lanes.

With a crooked smile I added, "Don't be too hard on them. Their hands are tied in ways we cannot fathom."

Pagan nodded. "I know. It is just a little unsettling at times. Have you ever thought about what it would be like to be a shadow. Not having to make sure the whole universe didn't unravel?" He started to look at the bows. He lifted a crossbow with a rifle stock on it. "This might be fun." He looked at us. "I haven't made a fool of myself in at least an hour." He grabbed the bolts an made to follow.

Logan smiled, "It's not so bad. We're all pretty much left to our own affairs at the moment certainly, but from what I hear there are a number of projects that our generation are being asked to work at soon. It will be good to make a difference, even if it's a small one to start with."

Pagan replied, "Thats for sure. Being able to help some how. Not just hanging out.
Waiting for who knows what." He pulled the string an loaded the crossbow he had chosen. He studied the target for a moment. Closed his eyes. Stilled his breathing. Thwack. Was heard at the line. Only a finger with out of center. "I told you this wasn't my game." He shrugged an stepped away for the next person to shoot.

Logan asked curiously "So what is your normal game? What is it you like doing when you're not in Amber?"

Pagan answered, "Me? When it comes to the martial sciences. I prefer to have a sword in my hand." He watched the next shot fly. "But when I am playing I prefer a pretty girl in my hand." He smiled at us.

Logan grinned, "A man after my own heart." He turned to Flavel "And how about you, cousin? What do you prefer when working and playing?"

I stepped forward and nocked an arrow. Placing my legs wide apart and taking an archer's stance I studied the target and tried to get a feel for the wind while saying, "I mostly like to figure out the how's and why's of what is. I've got a good head for remembering facts and I spend much of my time cramming as much information and data into the space between my ears. Unfortunately, I sometimes think the more I learn, the less I know."

I drew a bead on the target and steadied my breathing. After maybe thirty seconds of holding the pose I slowly relaxed my draw on the bow and turned to face Logan and Pagan.

"Speaking of assignments from the crown, have you both received instructions as well?"

Logan smiled "Yes and no. Dad wants me to think on a project, but I'll see how the meeting with the team leader goes. How about you, Pagan?"

I nodded, my expression serious. "I've received instructions. I'm an observor for the negotiations, and afterwards I'll be hosting some friends from out of town. What do you think of having occasional trump conferences between project leaders? I've been
kicking the idea around and think we may wish to keep abreast of each other's endeavors and maybe lend a hand amongst ourselves where necessary."

Pagan answered to Logan, "No. I guess mommy just wants to see what I do." He seemed to think about it. "I haven't spent much time here, or staying upto date. I just hope that doesn't turn out to be a deadly mistake." He stepped back up to the line. An let fly again.
Missing the center ring totally. "Next." He said stepping back.

In a blur, my bow-arm snapped out and I launched an arrow without positioning myself or sighting the target. Obviously a combat shot, the arrow flew and hit the target dead center. The only oddity being the arrow coming to rest in a target one lane over.

For a moment, I thought of bluffing my intentions to hit this unusual target but decided that might have unknown ramifications later. I managed a wry grin. "Story of my life."

Pagan laughed, "That is what I call shooting. What is your next amazing feat?"

I chuckled, "My next amazing feat is to rack this bow before I accidently hurt somebody. The range officer wouldn't appreciate the extra paperwork."

I stepped back into the tent and handed the bow and accessories to the armorer with a quick thank you before returning to where Logan and Pagan stood.

"Sounds good to me. Beside I still have to try an figure my way around this maze of a place." He started to unstrap his glove. "Would you be up for a quick tour?" He asked. "I would be greatful."

Logan smiled, "And I also need to depart. Pagan, you should talk to my father Eric. I'm sure he can direct you to one of the projects better than I. And Flavel, I don't know who the other team leaders are, sorry."

Pagan smiled at us. "Well point the way an I will see if I can find some trouble." He seemed a bit nervous about meeting Eric. Not that I could blame him.

Logan shook his head, "I don't know where he is but he'll be around somewhere. Just see him when you're ready to." He bowed "A pleasure meeting you, cousins."

Pagan and I returned the bow, with myself adding a “Likewise” at the departure.

Doesn't know the other project leaders? Interesting...I know three
including myself. I wonder how many projects there really are.
There could be an advantage knowing this. Perhaps conferences
between project leaders would not be the best utilization of this
intelligence asset. Especially if I was one of the few who could
work cross channels...

I shook my head briefly at the thought. Anthony would be proud.

Looking at Pagan I smiled, "I guess maybe we should hunt up Eric. He will probably be able to give us some advice on these projects."

...and maybe he'll let slip some of the activities my peers will be
dealing with.

Pagan nodded. "I am following you for now remember."We started walking back and he continued with his questions, "So do you know anything about these projects?"

To which I replied, "I'll be heading up a diplomatic mission. It seems that people from
from a far distant land will be showing up as guests. The pre-briefing during the first day of the negotiations will cover this in detail. The other missions Eric can explain better then I could. For that matter, I'm not even certain what all the missions there
are."

Basically I was just paraphrasing what I’d said before. Something I’d gotten pretty good at doing when I’d felt the need. Speak much, say little. The calling card of the consummate politician.

Pagan said, "So do we have a clue where we could find Eric?"

I escorted Pagan around the Castle for a time. Eric, however, was unavailable to meet with anyone, already being in a lengthy meeting of his own.. Pagan then departed for his own dinner appointment with Deirdre which suddenly gave me some free time..

On my own I enjoyed a leisurely walk through the city of Amber, not so much to gather intelligence as to just relax and unwind. Feeding pigeons in a park after a coffee and a delicious scone at a nearby coffeehouse, I reflected on my plans for the upcoming evening. If you’ve never fed pigeons before, I’d recommend the practice. They rarely complain, and they always enjoy the company of whoever is feeding them.

*****

With the darkening of the skies I looked out my window and upon the face of the moon. Clouds could be seen collecting around Mount Kolvir. It looked to be a promising night for random prophecy. Grabbing shoulderbag and fastening my white trimed cloak about me, I stepped out into Castle hallways. Quietly I affected my departure shuffling out a trump card as he does so.

The full moon shined brightly and I saw the stair to Tir Na-Nog'th stretching up from Kolvir, the city floated ghost-like above the now dark seas.

A light wind played with the edges of my cloak as I threaded my way ever upward along the staircase. A lesser sort might have found the exertion tiring but my breath stayed even. My eyes darted from fickle clouds to spectral moonbeams as I made my way.

As ever, there was the uncertainty of what was to come. Will there be truth or illusions playing at being oracles?

Many a possibility caressed my thoughts. What would be with Shado? Where walked the Emperor in his White Flame realm? What designs did his family play in the play that was my life? So much had recently been revealed, and for each revelation a new host of questions arose.

Finally, I reached the threshold of Tir. Within pale images flitted through ethereal streets, speaking without sound.

Pulling my cloak closer to myself I crossed what I believed to be the line between reality and illusion. Whisps of cloud like the stuff of dreams swirled around my boots as I moved forward.

For a time, I passed through the ghostly people without recognition on either side. Then two figures stood close by that caught my eye. They whispered, a male and a female. They turned slightly and I recognized a younger Fiona and Anthony. For a moment, she looked weary and leaned against Anthony, her hand clutched her rounded abdomen. He supported her in his arms, the gesture both intimate and gentle, speaking on, deciding things for his new family.

I walked over to Fiona and Anthony and bowed slightly to the pair and said, "Congratulations." I straightened while listening briefly to the two chat. I didn’t really expect a reply but couldn’t help but utter an appreciation for an occasion that one of use children benefitted by.

They did not see me, but I caught wisps of conversation. 'This is the best way, love.' 'Whatever he decides, he will have the skills and training for. I will not deny him options through limiting his education.' 'Even if I chose this realm, he may not.' 'What if they
find him before he is ready?' 'They won't, love. I'll be there, guarding him.'

"Aye, you managed it fair enough. Nobody ever found me. Not even myself. Though from day to day I come ever closer." I nodded to the two and continued on. "Wonder if Faile is similarly affected? I must ask her some day."

Another thought crossed my mind then. Who was the ‘They’ that might find me?

Another corner, another group. This time, I spied a group of Roman soldiers working to bring down a straight ash tree. Nearby stood a powerfully built man that I recognized only too well as the figure from my dreams.

I darted a glance at the moon and then stepped closer, curious to see what this man was directing.

The image of the Emperor acknowledged me with an amused nod. The soldiers tied ropes around the lower branches of the ash, trying to uproot it in one piece. It seemed to be doing a good job of resisting this plan.

Metaphorically, it seemed obvious that Shado was the ash tree. This was going to be difficult to involve myself in. The impulse to run and cut the ropes was there before me but I stifled it. I needed to insert myself into this play and learn what there was to learn.

I casually saluted the emperor. "Why not use an axe?" I asked absently while watching the soldiers work.

The Emperor smiled coolly, "I may if it resists much longer. I would rather have it whole though and replant it where it belongs, in my garden."

I stroked my chin, as if giving the matter serious thought. "It would seem to me that your soldiers are going about this all wrong. They should use shovels instead of ropes."

The Emperor smiled, "Ah, but for such a small ash tree, its roots go deep, encompassing two worlds. My way will win. You will see."

I looked away from the struggling ash tree and back towards the Emperor. I cocked my head slightly as I appraised the ghostly form that confronted me. "Why would any ash tree be adverse to residing in your garden? Is not your garden the best of all possible gardens?"

The Emperor sneered as if I had just stated an obvious truth then replied, "It was given too much freedom to grow in the garden in which it grew to be a sapling. When its freedom was necessarily curbed, it developed strange notions."

I nodded, "That's the trouble with living things. They have their own hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Perfectly controlled behaviour is only found amongst the dead. Perhaps this little ash has difficulty differentiating between your garden and a graveyard."

The Emperor laughed, "Perhaps I shall plant it there and see how it fares."

I shrugged, "Are there not better ash trees more easily transplantable?"

The Emperor smiled, "I want this one though. However, since it may not be moved after all..." and he picked up a large axe in one hand, and moved towards the tree even as the image of the tree, soldiers and Emperor faded from sight.

I crossed my arms as I looked at the vacant spot where was shown the tree. I sighed. There should have been more to grasp from Quintus. Attitude was seen but motives were still in shadow. I shook my head and moved onward. Another glance at the moon to ensure no clouds approached.

I saw a small woman, dressed in white, her face in shadow, watching me.

I wandered over to her, bowed briefly and asked, "How goes things with thee lady?"

The woman stepped forward. For a moment, I thought she might be Shado then I noticed differences. Arielle. Her eyes gleamed strangely as she replied, "Better than ever I could have hoped."

Normally I was not bothered by the words of ghosts and figments of illusion, but something in her stance and eyes raised the hairs on my neck. I took a step backward. "What could have brought you to wield your own issue as a sword?"

Arielle smiled, "I asked my gift of Nemesis long before issue came."

She looked beyond Amber "They should have kept me safe." then to the Castle "They should not have taken me." Her fey glance turned on me again "So, much, much better than ever I could have dreamed, and so very easy to bring about."

Desperate to continue the conversation I blurted, "But why cry vengeance? What was taken that can't be replaced?"

Arielle stepped forward again and hissed "My life, my heritage, my home. I am a Ceasar, Divine vengeance is our right." Her expression changed suddenly to a feral smile "Nearly there now."

My eyes narrowed and I took another step back and glanced at the moon. The moon still shined full and clear. When I looked back, Arielle's image was gone.

"Styx!" I cursed. I was certain I could have gleaned more information from her.

A cold breeze moved past me and there was the sound of mocking laughter. Soon though, even that faded.

I walked into the castle. Not certain what to look for but certain I’d find it.

From beyond a courtyard wall, I heard the sound of genuine laughter, rich and cheering.
Hearing laughter and mirth, I quickened my step to it's source. It was good to hear some happiness still existed, even if it was but illusion.

I saw and heard a fountain splashing. On its rim sat a small woman with raven hair, her face turned away from me. Yet, there was a familiarity to her that my soul knew. As her hand trailed through the water, she laughed in delight.

I hesitated momentarily as I took in the scene. A smile came to my lips and I walked towards her.

Shado looked around and smiled at me, "Hello again, Flavel."

I nodded, "Hello Shado. I might have known I would find you here. How have you been?"

She smiled, "Well. I appear to have wandered into your section of Elysium. I hope you do not mind the visit."

I laughed, "Not at all. It wouldn't be Elysium without you." I sat down next to her at the fountain's edge.

She smiled, "Sweet as ever. Tell me, did we win in the end?"

I blinked briefly at the question, "Time is a funny thing. I'm afraid you've met me from an earlier day for the conflict has yet to happen in my timeframe."

She looked puzzled, "How can that be when we both were there? I know I must have died before you, but... " She shrugged, "Never mind." She then smiled at him again "Is Julia safe?"

"Shado, time is short in this place. Elysium to you. I am Flavel from the point of Duncan's funeral. I walk in Tir Na-Nog'th. And I touch you from prophetic dreams. Say how I can change what has happened. What could you tell the past that would benefit the future?"

She stroked my cheek "Flavel, I made this decision a long time ago. I was a child and the Flame offered me time or the chance to burn brightly."

Curious how I felt detached from myself as I spoke to her. It was almost like I had become an actor in a play or perhaps it was Shado that was real and I was but the ghost. I might think she conjured me forth. So it was I watched myself take her hand as she had taken my heart, "I will speak with this Flame one day."

Shado smiled a little sadly, "Why would you do this? Why seek to change fate?"

I smiled, "No person's fate belongs to themselves alone. Even a White Flame cannot claim you entire. My fate is linked with yours, and I don't recall any deals I've made over time or bright burning."

Shado asked softly, "How are our fates linked? This was never something you told me of."

"As you influenced and guided me so you changed me. What is it, that even in death, never dies?"

Shado held up her hands "Tell me, please."

I swallowed, "I love you Shado. Such a thing may not be hotter then a White Flame, or stronger then Nemesis' curse, but it never ever dies. Even Pluto can't change that."

Shado smiled, "Persephone listens kindly to lovers. That may be one way to retrieve me. Another way to perhaps prevent this though... I do not belong to Nemesis alone. I was born with two Glyphs. The other belongs to Iris, messenger and rainbow. Perhaps she would help. There are also the Fates in Silvermere."

I nodded, "I will do what I can, and failing that, I'll join you soon enough."

Shado shook her head "Death is never an answer, Flavel. Just a temporary measure. Silvermere is treacherous. You would be wise to have a companion in your travels." She paused then added "Talk to my younger self. She may tell you more." She closed her eyes for a moment "The day after the funeral, the evening of that day, I was climbing Kolvir. Time crosses now." She opened her eyes "I wish you both well." Like a mist, she then faded away.

I turned and headed back to the steps of Kolvir. With all that had transpired, I was certain of one thing. I had my fill of Tir.

Sitting near the cliff edge, looking out over Amber, sat Shado. Her face was full of almost childlike wonder as she looked out over the moonlit city.

I approached Shado. Still feeling possessed of the dreamscapes I had wandered from. Almost like I hadn’t really left the dreaming city, or maybe it was that I had left something behind.

Shado spoke without looking up "Look, Flavel. Isn't the view lovely?" She then glanced up "You look like you've seen a ghost."

I cleared my throat. "Several. Some more real then others. It's a strange land."

She patted the grass beside her, "You'd best sit down before you fall down."

I didn’t doubt that. Tir was one of those places you say you’ll never visit again but of course find yourself going back again and again. I understand walking the pattern in Tir is a singularly weird experience.                    

I took a seat next to Shado. For a moment my eyes lost focus as I looked accross the vast miles of scenery that surrounded us on the high mountain side. "I think I have enough pieces of the puzzle that I can conjecture a story. I'll probably be off in some
particulars but I've got enough to see things clear enough."

Shado looked at me curiously, "Anything you want to relate to me?"

Shado had asked of me previously if I could find out any information I could on Arielle. It was time to live up to my reputation as an investigator.

"Once upon a time there was a tribunal in a Roman capital. As is typical of Roman republics the tribunal was made up of three. Those three were named Arielle, Anthony, and Marcus. Or perhaps other rules were in affect, but if precedence were to be determined Athony was the eldest, followed by Arielle, and lastly Marcus."

Shado's eyes narrowed a little, but she said nothing.

I shrugged, "I might have some of this wrong. Arielle was a child when she came to Amber or so I've heard from one source or another. So perhaps my idea of a tribunal is off. Curious though that there was three. A deal of one sort or another was struck between King Oberon of Amber and Marcus of the White Flame. I am not privvy to the
details but I know the result. Anthony was balanced between both realms. He was forced to make a choice and he no longer resides in the Roman realm. Arielle was brought to Amber and raised as an adopted daughter. When she and Julian went to Silvermere. She saw something. We don't know what but I think I have a good idea now. She realized she was a ceasar and her heritage was taken from her. She was duped, and she swore vengeance. I would imagine she has hatred enough for both realms. Nemesis is, was her patron."

Shado drew a sharp breath then looked away from me for a time. Finally, she turned back and nodded, "This makes sense."

I nodded too, "That's about as far as I can conjecture."

Shado was quiet for a moment then looked up at me with huge, dark eyes, "I think I can pick up the story from here." Her hands briefly balled into fists before she released them. "Since I was a little girl, Mother has told me of Amber, of Silvermere, knowing I guess that I would come here and discover that Julian was my father. Yet at the same time, she pushed me into being the perfect Empress..." Shado looked out to sea and her voice caught as she added, "Just what Quintus wanted."

I met Shado's stare briefly before turning my head away. "Yes, you were set up to look infinitely attractive to an Emperor and simultaneously you were drawn here...for this is part of your heritage. I think Quintus was infected with uncontrollable desire. It translated to ambition and so he is Emperor. It translated into many other things. He grasps, he seizes, you ran. Arielle's shade told me that her curse had succeeded beyond her wildest imaginations."

Shado made a small superstitious gesture, "Her shade? Where have you been?"

I smiled as best I could. "Space and time mean little in the dreamworld of Tir. I met people who might have been, could have been, or will possibly be. I know you hold the
glyph of Nemesis, even as you hold the seal of Iris. You made a decision to burn like a star then forever be a flame."

Shado's eyes widened, "Nobody knows that but... Who told you?"

An ironic thought occurred to me that the future Shado might have already known of this meeting and its contents. But that could hold a cosmological error in that the Shado from Elysium flatly stated that I had never told her why our fates were linked. Unless I never does, did...I shook my head as the very meaning of tense became muddled, divergent time lines or an endless loop?. "Please don't press me for that answer. In the final analysis, I promise, you will know." I finally stated.

Shado looked sceptical, "You mean when I'm dead? Nobody alive knows about those markings other than me." Her voice softened, "If it was my shade, it would also explain your reluctance to answer."

"It might have been," I admitted. "I get the feeling that your time draws short and this troubles me."

She hesitated then took my hand and squeezed it gently, "Don't worry. This was my choice and now my fate to deal with."

I covered her hands with mine. "Our fates are intertwined, and I have a choice as well...and I say we shall burn forever. If not always, then like the moon in its phases. We are a Lord and Lady of Creation. Are we not the masters of both luck and fate? There are no deities but the ideals we swear by."

Shado smiled slightly, "I fail to see how your decision can influence my fate or why you have a choice as to my fate, though I appreciate the optimism."

"I will influence your wyrd as much as you will let me."

Shado shook her head, "Why? I know we're cousins and good friends, but ... Why do you say our fates are intertwined? What is it that you know that I don't?"

There ought to be a law against having to confess one's love to a person for the first
time more then once.

"I don't know my intentions any further then my feelings in this matter. Nor do I know your feelings for me Shado. But I've come to love you as much as I could love any soul in creation. I don't ask that you return, or acknowledge my feelings. I lay no special claim to your person. But grant that my adoration be a small influence on your destiny, much like the moon pulls at the sea."

Shado went to speak then stopped, the look on her face still one of surprise. Carefully she asked, "Is this why you and Clovis don't get along?" clearly she strove for a gap in which to think.

I laughed, inwardly glad at the emotional relief, "Clovis? Goodness no. I lay no claim on you or your affections. The last thing you need is another Quintus."

Shado nodded, smiling a little, then said gently, "Forgive my surprise. It's just that I never felt anything of this in your demeanour."

There’s a common enough misconception.

I smiled at Shado. "I try not to color my perceptions with rages and desires. But I still feel affinities."

Shado watched me as she asked honestly, curiosity in her voice "How do you close out emotions like that?"

I tapped my skull with a finger, "I devote some effort in maintaining a well ordered mind. My memory is edetic. I access and control various layers of my consciouness through ritualized imagery. There are...techniques I've experimented with and refined." I shrugged, "The pattern can turn inward as well as well as outward."

She nodded, "I haven't taken Pattern yet. I'm not sure if I even can."

"In theory, you should be able to if you are Julian's daughter. Though nothing is truly certain until the attempt is made."

Shado shrugged, "It's more the interaction between the Pattern and the White Flame that concerns me." She lay back on the grass, looking up at the moon "This at least reminds me of home. The moon that is. Then I see constellations I don't know and everything is strange again."

She was quiet for a time then said softly "I miss home."

"Aye, one day maybe you will be able to return. When I talked with Quintus he seemed fundamentally unstable. I would be curious to know what drove him mad."

Shado turned on her side to look up at me, "You talked to Quintus? Another shade?"

"Yes. Thankfully it was a distant shade with the subject matter being somewhat metaphorical. I don't know if I could handle a completely accurate representation of such a person. He seemed like a man who expected the universe to revolve around him only because that's what it normally does."

Shado nodded grimly, "In the Empire, it does. He always gets what he wants and those who deny him are punished or killed."

"I've never dealt with a person who exhibited absolute power. A curious, if terrifying prospect."

Shado nodded, "As for madness, I wonder sometimes if that does not touch all of our family to a degree. I don't know what mania specifically spurs Quintus on, but I have his heir which must irk him."

I managed a grim smile. "Control. That is his obsession. That which he cannot control he strives to remove. Julia is his future. Such an obsession must fomate blind-spots in his perceptions. We must seek to find them. I might have to meet him some day to learn what I can, and I do not relish such an encounter."

A thought came to me that it was Arielle that had manipulated Quintus into desiring Shado. I wonder how he would react if he found this out? Such information might knock him off balance.

Shado replied quietly "He will come for Julia and I. She is the key though. She looks too much like him for him to kill her as once he threatened."

I closed my eyes briefly, as I again opened them I asked Shado, "What mark does Julia carry?"

Shado smiled, "Iris' mark, like me."

I couldn’t bring myself to ask her if there were other marks. Instead I said, "One day I must visit your land. I think I might come to understand more of myself if I do this."

She smiled slowly, "Talking of which... Want to start your lessons?"

I looked out from the slopes of Kolvir. My eyes fixating momentarily on the distant lights of Amber city. I inhaled deeply of the night air as I turned again to look upon Shado. I made a gentle nod. "This seems as good a place as any to practice such craft. I
stand ready for your instructions fair polymorpher."

Shado stood, the movement quick and fluid "Alright, this will work best if we are in mental contact. What I intend to do is show you how shapeshifting works. After that, technique is easier to learn."

On my feet, I managed to keep my face neutral. "I had a feeling it might involve something like that. Will this be superficial or indepth mental contact?"

She replied, "I won't probe, but you need to trust me to guide your mind."

I nodded, "My safeword is Janus. If you hear this word. Get out of my mind as quickly as you can safely manage."

Shado nodded, "Thank you. Noted. Alright, some do's and don'ts. It's a good idea to get familiar with two or three forms to start with. This will save you time and energy if you need to shift suddenly. Never shift your mind. That way lies madness."

"Sounds like reasonable advice." I smiled slightly though my stance radianted a slight nervous tension.

She held out her hand "Ready?"

I took her hand in mine with a certain amount of uncertainty. "Readiness is known only to those who fully understand what they are to do. I will only say that I am willing."

She grinned, "Fair answer." The next moment, I felt her at the edge of my mind, waiting politely to be invited in.

I opened the door to myself. *Do come in. Make yourself at home*

A smile quirked her lips *Why thank you, kind sir.*

With that, she slipped inside my mind. A bright presence. *This next part will hurt, Flavel.*

*Change always hurts, and death is but a doorway*

Soft laughter *I won't kill you. Just follow me.* and I felt her moving, encouraging my latent shapeshifting to wake, to flow.

As much as I could, I maintained close contact with Shado. I neither helped nor hindered what Shado attempted. Being uncertain what I was supposed to be doing.

Shado smiled *Watch.* I saw now better what was happening. She fed an image through the conduits of my mind to my body along with the will to become that. I understood. The form flowed from what the mind desired. The better the control of the mind, the better the control of the body. I felt my body begin to flow, feathers sprouted from my arms, as I took on the shape of my favorite bird, the Great Blue Heron.

I went to speak and all that came out was a squawk of an animal attempting to form sounds quite beyond it's physical capabilities.
The regal blue bird tilted it's head in suprise and with regal grace toppled over in a collection of twitching matchstick legs and wonderous wings. I’d like to say that I took this in good spirits but the bizareness of my body paniced me momentarily. Instantly I forced my mind to a stillness. The Blue Heron lay motionless on it's side. Content merely in examining it's breathing.

*Okay...so...on the dignity scale I'm not winning a lot of points. But I certainly enjoy the look.*

Gently, Shado picked up the heron and righted me, letting me get used to standing for myself. *We're all like that to start with.*

The Heron cautiously looked around as it took in the world with new perceptions.

I am reborn and can only control by first accepting what I’ve become.

Experimentally, it flapped a wing. *Muscles groups are strange. Bones are sized differently, and joints are reversed in some ways. How bizarre.* I craned my neck around in a gesture that would cause a human to break it's neck if they could succeed in duplicating it. *Hey, this could be fun!* I again lost my balance momentarily but managed to stay righted more from Shado's assistance then anything else. *Might take a while to figure this out though.*

She smiled *Want some more fun?*

The Heron looked at Shado with it's left eye (the right eye being on the other side of its head as is typical for non-predartory birds). *It gets better then this?*

*Much, much better.* She lifted her arms and I saw her shift smoothly into a small black hawk *Want to test your wings?*

Gingerly I unfurled my wings and tested the winds through my feathers. A little bit of nervousness leaked through to Shado, *Uh, don't I need a pilot's license for something like that?*

Laughter. *Not unless it's standard Amber practise to license birds, Flavel. Don't worry. I'm right here and will help if you need me to. Feel the wind through the feathers? Doesn't that feel good?*

Okay, I was stalling.

The heron squawked again. *Drat. I need to work on my heron voice. I sound like a punctured accordian.* I flapped my wings a couple times getting the feel for how they worked. *I can feel the lift. I think I might be able to pull this off* I said with rising excitement.

The small hawk demonstrated and hovered nearby *I'm right here. You can do this, Flavel.*

I flapped my wings awkwardly with more and more force, and my feet left the ground. For a moment I paused in mid-air trying to figure out what to do next. Ducking my long
neck downward I began to glide down the slope of the mountain gradually picking up speed. The Great Blue Heron gave voice in a dull, gutteral cry *I'm flying! I'm flying!*

The hawk swooped past me *Well done, Flavel. Now, isn't this more fun?*

*The wind tastes like Mozart!* I thought joyously. I glided through the air, content now in seeing the scenery. *How much we are like cherubs on the wind...*

Shado the hawk flew by me *Or thoughts on a breath... I love flying.*

*I should have learned this long ago. I never knew such things could be.* I gently spiraled lower, approaching the mountain.

Shado replied gently *For changing back, just will yourself to be exactly as you were, clothes and all.*

*Right, makes sense...think I'll try landing this jetliner first...let's see--landing gear down, tail up, extend the flaps, er--no flaps on this crate...* I swooped down and misjudged the ground with my long slender legs. What followed was a pinwheeling riot of feathers, wings, and legs as I went head over heels on the ground. Lying in a heap I slowly changed form back to a clothed man lying on his back. I sat up, coughed, and a feather flew from my mouth.

Shado landed and smoothly changed back into her human form before hurrying over to kneel beside me and hug me, "I am so proud of you. You did so well for your first time shapeshifting."

I hugged her back and slowly got to my feet. I worked my mouth briefly as I got used to having my tongue back. "Thanks. That was an amazing experience. I can see I have much to learn." I winced and rubbed my chest. "Seems some of my muscles will need to get used to working differently."

Shado took my arm, drawing out her book with her other hand, "First things first. Hunger will soon hit. My lodge?"

I nodded, "Yes, that would be fine."

She could have said Dante’s Frozen Hell and I would have agreed. My thoughts were still in the sky.

She activated the trump and soon the two of us stood back in the lodge Julian has gifted to his child. She smiled and released my arm "I'll just get some food. Any preferences?"

A wave of dizziness passed through me, and my medical training surfaced. Examining my hands I noted that they shook ever so slightly.

If I didn't know better I'd say my blood sugar just dropped at least 30 points. I mused.

Looking up towards Shado I ventured a smile and answered, "Something sweet please."

Shado nodded and left the room briefly. A short time later, she came back with a tray heaped with fruits, meats, cheeses and bread. She set it on a table "Help yourself, Flavel. Would you like wine or something else?"

I almost asked for a fresh frog but stopped myself. Apparently this was a side affect of being a heron momentarily.

I helped myself to a crisp golden apple and said, "Wine would be fine I think."

She poured two glasses of a pale golden white colour and handed one to me. As she sipped her own, she explained, "Shapeshifting always consumes energy. The more radical or unused you are to the shape, the more it will consume."

I carefully took the offered wine. "I've always felt my endurance to be excellent but you're certainly correctly. I feel as if I've run a great distance."

The wine's fragrance was light and crisp, reminding me of summers by the Rhine. Shado nodded, "Your body has done the equivalent. For that reason, I tend to restrict my shapeshifting to when I need it or it's just plain fun. Changing too often too quickly can do long-term damage. Also never shift your mind. That way lies madness."

I nodded and took a bite of the apple and washed it down with a sip of wine. "Wise words I will remember. What other forms are there that I can safely assume?"

Shado took a bite of a meat sandwich and thought for a time. Swallowing, she answered "There are no unsafe forms as such. The trick is to get yourself a few forms you like and get to know them as well as you can. That saves both energy and time."

I continued to nibble my apple. "Any advice on the forms I should choose from? There appears so many. Could I take the form of a dragon and breath fire? Or should I limit my selections to more mundane creatures?"

Shado smiled "Well, maybe mundane forms to start with. It's a good idea to have forms to cope with the elements and possibly battle, but other than that it's your call."

I nodded. "Everything you say makes perfect sense. Start small and work my way up. Out of curiousity, may I ask what your favorite forms are?"

Shado grinned, "Hawk. My own human form. Small orca. Others I experiment
with as needs must."

I smiled, "You seem very adept at changing. I will practice and experiment where I can. Excepting my brain of course."

What a world there was to explore, and all of it was me.

Shado smiled, "It's just practise, trust me, but thank you." She paused then added "I have some good news though."

I looked briefly at my now empty left hand. Did I eat the whole apple? Guess I did at that. Good think I didn't chew on the wine glass. I started and replied, "Good news is always welcome."

She smiled, "Oh, yes and with shapeshifting, we can utilise more of the food." Her smile widened "I think we have a safe Shadow to take the legions to."

I took another sip of my wine. "The lady is resourceful. It's good to hear they will have a safe harbor."

Shado shook her head "Don't thank me." She bit her lip then continued, "Clovis is the one who is helping us."

I paused then smiled, "Excellent to hear." My eyes closed momentarily as I paused deep in thought. Her mannerisms of biting her lip...

Shado waited quietly, trusting me to speak when I was ready.

After a couple moments my eyes snapped open. "You and Clovis are friends?"

Shado reddened "Yes, we are friends."

I looked away from her blush and nodded. "Good. Friends are precious in these times."

Shado nodded, "I count friendship as something very rare and special." She bit her lip "I'm sorry I've made you uncomfortable. It's been a strange two nights."

I turned toward her with a chuckle, "I meant only to spare you embarassement. I trust your judgement of character more then my own. I think, perhaps, you have spent more time with my dear cousin then I have had the pleasure of doing. In turn I defer to your assessment."

Shado smiled and laughed softly, "What is it with you two? Be honest, please, Flavel."

I shrugged, "I'm not entirely certain Shado. I could speculate, but I could be wrong. Amberites are complex people. Often we know not what motivates ourselves. How then can I speak of another?"

Shado shrugged, "Alright. I was curious, that's all." She grinned "One of
these days, Flavel Abastillas, I will find out what makes you tick."

I grinned, thinking back upon a poem. "Illumination can sometimes be more then we would hope for. Light can magnify, light can mystify, light can..." My grin faltered, "Sometimes truth suffers from too much analysis. The hour is late and I should go."

Shado looked worried, "Did I offend you?"

I shook my head, "Not at all. I am...was, merely caught off guard. Forgive me."

Shado smiled, "No forgiveness necessary. Anyway, you're my best friend. Why wouldn't I be interested in you?" She grinned ruefully "And I'm rambling. Please forgive me."

My eyes blinked in confusion. "I, yes, no..." I stopped and took a breath. "There is nothing that requires forgiveness. I'm happy we are friends."

I’ll be the first to admit I’m an idiot when it comes to apologies. I never liked giving one and I never much enjoyed receiving them. There was protocol involving this but the younger generation had apparently tossed it on the wayside. Maybe I was old fashioned. Regardless, my apologizing and having received an apology in turn had confused me.
I was tired, I’d been through Tir, shapeshifted and confessed my love twice and in general I was totally exhausted. I needed to regroup.

Shado smiled, "I'm glad too. I do care about you."

I bowed, "As I do you. Thank you for the wonderful evening. I wish you and Julia a pleasant sleep."

Shado curtsied, "Sweet dreams and thanks to you too, dear Flavel."

I took a step backward, turned and left quietly. A passing servant saw a young noble walking deep in ponderings and decided against asking if he will be needing anything...

Just as well, I was deep in auto-pilot.