I awakened to find myself sprawled across the bed still fully clothed from the previous night’s ventures. Taking my time, I went about my morning ablutions getting myself cleaned up.

Glancing in the mirror I noticed my hair was getting near to the point of requiring a trim. Then I remembered last night's shape shifting. Staring into the mirror I focused my will and little by
little my hair receded. By the time a satisfactory length was in evidence I needed to wash the sweat from my brow.

I wonder how I'd look in curls? I shook my head, Maybe I'd better not push it.

Such mundane activities taken care of I rummaged in the closet looking for something suitable to wear.

Nothing quite matched what I had worn previously. I liked the colors of gray trimmed in white, but it wasn’t a common color scheme.

Might need to see a tailor sometime. I've grown too accustomed to dwelling in shadows where changing clothes was a trivial pattern lord's whimsy.

With a shrug, I donned a basic garb of black colors, and fastened my old green cloak about my shoulders, with my shoulder bag underneath.

At least it was comfortable attire.

Satisfied that my presentation at least satisfied the minimums of decorum I strapped on my blade and headed out in search of a hearty breakfast. The demands of shape shifting again weighed heavily on me.

The breakfast rooms were already set for the appetites of my family. Ahead, I heard sounds of movement from two of the dining rooms. From past experience, I knew it was likely to get busier yet.

I padded into the nearest of the rooms. Saying hello to those present, servants or otherwise, I took a plate and loaded up on various edibles, (thankful that the dining was usually buffet style)
and sat down to eat.

The room I chose had three occupants newly arrived, Bleys, Shado and Julia. Shado smiled briefly to me as she loaded up two plates. Julia waited politely at the table and smiled up at me. "Good morning, Uncle Flavel."

Bleys smiled as well, "Ah Flavel, how pleasant to see you. Your timing is excellent."

I smiled and responded with a "good morning" to everyone present.

I toyed with idea of saying that I had gotten to the food before Gerard so yes, my timing was perfect, but decided against slighting an Uncle; even in jest. Instead I chuckled and said to Bleys, "I'm hungry, and I got here in time for breakfast so I'm inclined to agree with you."

I carried my well laden plate over to where the others were seated.

For a time, there was silence as everyone broke their nightly fast. Bleys poured himself some coffee and Julia some more orange juice then turned to me. "I understand my sister has told you of the mission leadership you’ve been given. Do you have any questions?"

"I do have a few questions I'd like to entertain. Its obvious this is a diplomatic mission. Am I correct in assuming our primary goal is to greet, assist, and basically extend the hand of friendship to our guests?"

Another thought occurred to me but I didn’t give it voice. Could there be agendas present that would not be appropriate for Shado and Julia to hear? Or perhaps the opposite could be true.
Much has been revealed, which can only mean there is much that is still hidden.

Sometimes it seems I hold one or more additional conversations with myself while talking to my colleagues. It’s a wonder I don’t mix them up.

Bleys nodded, "That is correct. You may also be called upon to back up that friendship with military force should unexpected incursions occur."

Military force? Were talking five legions of disciplined, Amber-level roman soldiers with a couple of White Flame Elders commanding! How in Jupiter’s name would we defend against that?

I said evenly, "Yes, there is a wide degree of possibilities inherent in such meetings. Fiona told me that this was a diplomatic mission. She did not have any details as to what this would entail. For instance, are we containing the legions in this shadow or will we be moving them to a different area?"

Bleys nodded to Shado and said, "Shado has been offered a suitable shadow for the legions base by Clovis. I'd suggest including both Clovis and Pagan in your team. The first order of business is to establish a fortified settlement for the families we may expect and an army camp or barracks for the legions."

I nodded, "I'd welcome anyone’s assistance in our venture. I'll also want to get a precise head count of everyone who enters into our realm, and again when we reach this shadow that Clovis has reserved. It would not do for our guests to stray. I imagine Clovis has sufficient control of his dimension such that the establishment of facilities and security will not be an issue."

Shado replied quietly, "I'd prefer to bring the legions through where they are to stay. It will ease matters greatly."

I reflected momentarily and then said, "Do we know if the gate can be moved? That would certainly make this easier logistically."

Turning to Shado I asked, "Are their issues with the movement of the legions we should be aware of?"

Shado shook her head, "We don't know where the Gate is on our side. And... I don't have Pattern to lead them through Shadow."

I frowned and took a sip of coffee as I pondered this, "We have quite a few people on this end that can affect the movement of people through shadow. On your side of the fence, I'm not certain if our power over shadow would function. At the very least we would need to send somebody through the gate and into the White Flame realm in order to determine where this portal can be found...this could get complex."

Shado nodded, "What I'm thinking of is opening a trump gate between the realms with the aid of the device I have."

"So your saying that we can project a gate anywhere on the Amber side of the house but we have no idea where the gate will open in White Flame territory?"

Shado shook her head "No, I refer to a Trump Gate only and it would be linked to one of my brothers."

I shrugged, "Your experiences with these matters goes well beyond my own. If you think it will work, I don't see any reason not to give it a try. Failing that, what alternatives do we have?"

Just as Shado was about to answer, Xel cheerfully walked in to the breakfast room. Bleys smiles and said, "Good morning, Xel. And how are you today?"

Xel nearly laughed out loud at Bleys's cheerful question and beamed back, "Doing great Uncle Bleys, I hope I'm not intruding on anything..." he said, holding his hands in a defensive position to demonstrate his seriousness in that. He nodded to me and Shado in welcoming, "Morning, good to see you again Shado...Flavel."

I turned toward Xel and said good naturedly, "Likewise, and no. Your not intruding. Business can be discussed anywhere but not to the exclusion of people enjoying breakfast. Won't you join us?"

Shado nodded and smiled, adding "Yes, please do. This is my daughter Julia." indicating the child at her side. I noted Shado had smoothly changed the subject to Julia. Obviously the White Flame Realm had it’s own intrigues. Not that I didn’t appreciate her taking my inference to heart. Xel seemed okay, but I didn’t relish discussing OP plans to all and sundry.

Xel nodded and sat down beside me in his muscle shirt and athletic shorts with no shoes. So much for dress codes and protocols. I’d rather be dragged over carpet tacks and dipped in rubbing alcohol then to be seen with Bleys dressed as he was. Come to think of it, I didn’t care for this much casualness around my person either.

Xel looked at Julia and smiled, "Hi, nice to meet you Julia. Last time I saw you...Shado you were drawn away from a Trump call, is everything okay?" he asked. "And you, Uncle Bleys, how have you been since I last saw you?"

Bleys grinned, "Wonderfully busy, dear boy. And how did you find lessons with my dear sister?"

Dear boy? Uh, oh...patronizing alert...

"They were good, she's a good teacher. I did okay, I'm hoping to do well this afternoon with her. So you played quarterback Uncle Bleys? Who won the game last time you all played?" he asked.

Bleys laughed, "When we _all_ played? It's never happened before."

At least Xel knows enough to massage Bleyss’ ego. I bet they could talk for days on a subject like that.

I listened with half and ear as I eat. I’d spent a year living in Fiona's shadow earth under her tutelage but there wasn't much time for carousing and sightseeing. What little I knew of football came from second and third hand commentary. Enough to know it was a game that involved a lot of bashing and smashing. Perhaps not as deadly as some of the sports my culture had refined. Given some reflection, I came to the conclusion that most sports were but thinly disguised training for war. More meat for the fleet, as it were.

With a smile and a shrug I finished my morning meal and commented, "I'd love to hear more about this game but I have an appointment I shouldn't be late to."

With a nod to all present I took my leave.

I wandered about the castle for a little while and then down towards the nearby Kolvir cliffs. Looking out at the panoramic view I sighed. So much beauty. If we fail it could disappear like it never existed. "It's rushing closer I think..."

I fished out my father's trump card and began to focus on the image. At the same time I held my own card in my other hand.

Anthony replied with a polite smile "Flavel. How are you today?"

"I find myself in reasonably good health. I trust you are similarly disposed?"

Anthony smiled, "I'm fine and just about to have some tea. Care to join me?"

"If it would not be an inconvenience to you, I'd be delighted."

So saying I extended my hand...

Anthony brought me through and I realized we were in Fiona's chambers. Anthony explained "Your mother is still asleep. She did a lot of teaching yesterday."

He waved me to a chair and sat opposite, pouring two cups of tea. "Now, what's amiss? You seem on edge."

Did Fiona talk to Anthony about this or am just getting a natural replay?

I took the proffered chair and affected nonchalance. "I was up late wandering about Tir-Na Nog'th. The visions can be disturbing sometimes. That, and I've started to experiment with some techniques involving shape shifting. I find it quite tiring but I'll be okay."

I decided I needed to elaborate before my father could bring his considerable talents of perception to bear.

"Besides, being a little edgy isn't that unusual given the pace of activit-"; I stopped speaking and grasped my trump card that I kept near at hand and accepted the contact. It was Dierdre’s child, Pagan. Looking away from Anthony I said, "Hello Pagan. I'm rather busy at the moment. You may wish to speak with Prince Bleys who is currently dining in the breakfast rooms."

With that said, I severed the trump contact and turned back toward Anthony to finish my sentence, "-ies that surround me."

Hey, sometimes life gives you material....

Anthony looked amused, "Busy indeed. And shape shifting gets easier with practice, trust me. You're just developing a new set of muscles. May I ask who is teaching you?"

I wanted to dodge the question but didn’t see an easy way to do it so I shrugged and hoped I wasn’t giving too much away; "Shadonia wanted me to investigate a matter and in turn she has been helping me learn the ins and outs of turning myself inside out, or rather, becoming a Blue Heron."

Anthony was quiet for a moment then said, "Shadoania Livia Ceasar. Interesting choice of teacher."

So much for a innocent name dropping. Anthony appeared to have been doing some home work with the people I rubbed elbows with. In the final analysis, I couldn’t complain seeing how he’d rescued my trump card. Just the same I didn’t care for too much snooping. The other elders might decide my parents were coddling. Which in turn would hint at my having vulnerabilities. Next thing I’d know, I’d have Aunts and Uncles prying helter-skelter into my affairs.

"There are advantages to having an instructor who is somewhat removed from either the Courts or Amber," I answered carefully. "The idea of concealing a few powers from my peers and elders appeals to me."

Anthony smiled, "It's also sensible." He grew more grave "Be careful. We Caesars are a treacherous family and in this case the female is definitely the deadlier of the species."

I went to retort, but then stopped and re-evaluated...

Strange that Shado and I became friends so easily. She can conjure. I wonder if that includes High Compelling? Am I being manipulated, and if so to what end? It's not like I develop feelings
for people everyday. She might be seeking an ally in this realm but she carries more then one rune on her person. I really don't know a thing about this other realm. Anthony's experience goes much further in this area then my own. Who do I truly trust?

With a grim contenance, I nodded. "I agree."

Anthony rubbed his face wearily, "You care for her don't you?"

Another alarm bell went off in my head. I could feel thin ice all around me.

My eyes narrowed, "I care for many people. It goes with being a member of the nobility."

Too strong a deflection.

"Yes, I care for her. There's not too many Latin speaking, Roman cultured women in Amber who enjoy my company. Imagine our surprise when we discovered we were both distantly related."

Anthony sighed, "Marcus, I and Arielle were cousins. The surviving children after a particularly vicious round of politics. For what it's worth, I like the young lady and her child."

Yes, it's the good hand that's dealt that causes you to lose the most.

I nodded, "As do I, though it's wise to be cautious as you've said."

Anthony chuckled, "It is, but sometimes you just have to choose your happiness. If I had chosen to be wise, I would never have come here."

Inwardly I felt confused at Anthony’s backpedaling. Provide me a warning and then advise me in an opposite manner? What’s he trying to say?

I provided a hesitant smile, "And I find that a difficult argument to counter seeing as I directly benefitted from such a decision. Still, there is much going on, and much that needs doing.
Training and preparation will be a key factor in our success or failure. Which brings me to why I am here."

Anthony nodded, a slight smile in an otherwise calm face, "Please go on. How is it that I may help you?"

Now I was even more confused. Fiona was quite explicit in requesting that I present myself for training in sorcery under my father’s tutelage. Perhaps she had failed to mention this to Anthony as well? Didn’t seem likely. Perhaps he wanted me to ask him directly. Interesting...

"Your already helping by providing advice in areas that I may lack some experience in. In other respects, Fiona has asked for my presence here. She had mentioned that I might be a receptive to
learning sorcery from you."

Anthony nodded, "I will teach you sorcery if you would like me to. How much time do you have?"

I almost laughed at the question. Yessiree! Step right up and learn sorcery in twelve quick hours using Anthony’s patented quick, crash course. Everything I’d heard about the art hinted at weeks learning spells, and years honing techniques. Still, learning the basics during odd moments of inactivity was better then nothing. Trouble was, inactivity and Amber are rarely used in the same sentence.

"Up until the negotiations I should have some measure of availability for this sort of study. I could be called away at a moment's notice if my presence is required. The crown's business has a way of sweeping people up suddenly if you know what I mean."

Anthony nodded "I heard you had been assigned a project. How is it going?"

I chuckled, "I've had a preliminary discussion with a few of my cohorts. Which was mostly a briefing to me of what was going on and how best we might take action. If nothing else I have an interesting group to work with. How goes the preparations for the negotiations?"

Anthony smiled, "I don't think the negotiations will take long by the looks of it."

I nodded, "That sounds like a good sign. Although truth be told, I'm looking forward to observing my elder lords and ladies in action. Who knows, maybe I might learn something?"

Anthony smiled, "We all learn, trust me. Part of the fun. There is also the chance of unexpected occurrences just to liven things up. Now, as regards your sorcery, shall we begin training this afternoon?"

I’d say the chance of an unexpected occurrence was about as possible as the sun rising tomorrow.

"This afternoon sounds fine. Will I find you here or do you wish me to call you?"

Anthony answered, "Here will be fine. Shall we say about two?"

I stood and nodded, "That would be fine, until 2 o' clock then."

Anthony smiled, "Until then."

I turned and made my exit. Closing the door quietly behind me. Walking along the corridor I mused, I wonder if Shado would be amenable to providing additional instruction?

After walking for a time so as to be out of range of listening ears, I withdrew her trump and concentrated.

Shado answered, her mental touch bright and honest *Hello Flavel. Everything is well?*

I replied, "It appears my appointments have been moved back to 2 o' clock today. I was wondering if you have plans for this morning."

Shado replied, *Not yet, but give me about quarter of an hour. I'm taking Julia to play with my nephew's children.*

*That's fine. There is no rush. Trump me at your convenience.* I severed the connection, and Anthony's words came back to me unbidden. The female is the more dangerous of the species... He shook my head at the thought. Whatever she is, she is a friend that I love. I wonder if Arielle had more in mind then just ensnaring Quintus? If so, I must congratulate her on her aim if ever I meet her again.

I continued my walk through courtyard gardens arriving in my own quarters after a few minutes time. About a quarter of an hour later, I felt the tingle of trump contact and recognized the bright clear touch. *Flavel?*

Clear touch or no, my hand held my own card as my mind slipped into the cosmic connection that was the domain of Trump. *Hello Shado. My place or yours?*

*My place will probably have less interruptions.*

I chuckled, *You're probably correct* I extended my hand.

Shado took my hand and brought me through into the sitting room of her lodge. She smiled "Would you like some tea before we begin?"

"I've just recently visited my father over tea. As much as I enjoy the beverage perhaps a little later." Aware that I still held Shado's hand, I released it in a conscious gesture.

She smiled, "That's good. I was thinking of making sure you had some extra calories in you given the subject of the teaching." She invited me to take a seat as she sat down herself, "First of all, do you have any questions?"

I casually seated myself next to Shado and said, "I'm not certain I know enough to make intelligent questions regarding shape shifting. I do wonder though how much of this is controlled by our conscious mind. If I touch a flame would my shape shifting react to protect my hand?"

Shado nodded, "It would if it was a large enough flame yes. Involuntary shape shifting takes place when survival becomes imperative. The rest of the time, it's controlled by the mind. There are some cases where this isn't the case, but they are rarer."

"It sounds like this ability is hardwired deep within us. Interesting. I had a feeling that the triggers lay at more then one level." I smiled, "Do we play at birds again?"

Shado smiled, "If you wish to, or we can try other forms."

I pondered the choice momentarily, "Given the limitless array of possibilities, I'd be inclined to try another form. I want to get a feel for the range of forms I can work with. What would you suggest?"

Shado thought for a moment then asked, "Another elemental form or a defensive form?"

I answered without hesitation, "Defensive."

She stood "Alright then, come with me. Space is probably better for this."

I followed, "Out of curiosity, are there other types of forms besides Elemental and defensive? I wasn't even aware there were categories as such."

Shado nodded, leading me to a clearing a short distance away, "There are lots of types. And many combinations thereof. I'm just trying to keep it simple while you're still learning though."

I wonder if there are books that cover this in the library? "For the masters, I get the feeling the only limits are imagination and endurance." I looked around the clearing in appraisal. "Well I doubt I could do too much damage here."

Shado chuckled merrily, "Neither of us could. There is always a danger in too much shape shifting. Loss of control just being one. Alright, do you want to try this on your own or would you like me to link in and guide you?"

I hesitated a barest fraction, "I think I'd like to try it on my own if I can. Though you may need to talk me through it. What am I to do?"

Shado nodded, "Alright, the first thing to do is imagine your skin becoming harder, like chitin for example. Remember to allow room to move though."

I looked dubious for a moment, and then closed my eyes, "Okay...Skin...harder...." I began focusing inward and concentrated.

Slowly I felt my skin become more rigid and armor like. I flexed my knees and arms, and rotated my neck trying to balance flexibility with durability. "I feel like something is happening."

Shado nodded, "That's the first step. It can take a bit to get used to the feeling."

I chuckled, "The term biofeedback must take on new meaning for a shapeshifter."

Shado laughed, "Oh that it does, trust me."

I continued to focus inward feeling the changes course through my body. A melting sensation, like being dipped in warm paraffin. I continued to hold true to maintaining my mobility, murmuring, "This is my skin, supple and strong. Elastic, plastic, steel fantastic..."

Sometimes when I’m concentrating I lapse into poetry. Something like a chant. It helps direct my subconscious as well as my higher order awareness. The words taking on a rhythm of their own. Directing me as I fed it my own focus.

Shado smiled, "Good, that's the first part complete. Now focus on what you would like if you needed to strike out."

Still holding my eyes closed I whispered, ", in darkness gleaming, sharp as razors, whispers thin, edges to silver, fatal slivers." Distantly I felt my fingernails grow cold, and then realized something more primordial was happening. Something deep within me was wakening. With a voice growing slightly concerned I said, "How am I doing Shado?"

Shado answered "You're doing fine. Have a look at your hands."

Opening my eyes I looked down at hands that had become pearlescent ivory. My fingernails having lengthened and now shimmered in colors of mother-o- pearl with a sharpness equal to any scalpel I’d ever held. I brought a hand nearer to my face and slowly inspected it. My eyes growing wide. "I'll have to remember not to scratch my back with these dig-" I doubled
over and gasped, "Not done yet, I think" I fell to one knee as changes to my form began to accelerate.

My slender build shrank a foot in stature. My frame thinning even more becoming hairless, and smoothly muscled. Brown hair ripened in hue and texture to a silken copper that reflects the light's rays. My lightning bolt lock of white hair transformed into shining silver strands. Mismatched
eyes brightened and became pupiless molten metal; the left eye mercury, the right eye gold.

Shado's eyes widened, "Your avatar form. It must be. I'm impressed."

My face thinned and became angular. Huge iridescently feathered white wings extended from my back with silver edgings of razor spanning 10 feet. The scent of sandalwood laid heavy on the air as I slowly got to my feet.

She offered her hand to help me stand, "How do you feel?"

In a voice like crystal wind chimes echoing in the wind I answered, "I feel...very...strange."

Shado explained, "The avatar form is rarely used, but it is, if you like, our essence taken physical shape."

I looked down at my form and then to either side of me as my wings unfurled and sparkled in the morning light. A giggle, half in awe, escaped me and filtered out like notes of music. "I'm in shock. I must be dreaming."

Shado smiled and led me to a nearby pool "Come, see what you look like."

I noted my hands felt smooth and warm, like marble that stood facing the sun. I followed in a flowing stride as I carefully retracted my wings. Looking down my eyes widened even more. My hands moved to touch my face. "Are we all like this?" I whispered.

Shado shook her head, her voice soft, "No. In part we are shaped by the one whose mark we bear and for the rest, it is a reflection of how we see our innermost self."

Somehow I didn’t like the sound of that. In a way I felt naked before her even though the form I held seemed sturdier then anything I’d been previously. No doubt about it, shape shifting dispelled physical boundaries with frightening affect.

I turned to stare at Shado,. "So now you know me like no other." I closed my eyes and slowly began to transform back to what I was originally. Wings merging into my back even as my stature grews to my normal height. Color suffused my features as the sparkles and glitters
faded. In a minute I stood once again as I normally was. Dressed in black with a green cloak about me.

Opening my eyes I looked myself over briefly. I smiled hesitantly and in a normal voice said, "I feel positively mundane now."

Shado smiled "Look at it this way, would you be comfortable with all and sundry seeing your avatar form?"

I considered the idea, "Not really no. Such knowledge might give people ideas as to who I really was."

Shado nodded, "Exactly. And so we all have our masks. Some more so than others."

I nodded as well. "Truer words were never spoken."

I went to speak, but paused momentarily. I wonder what her Avatar form is? No. I won't ask this. Suppressing a hunger I felt I said, "Shall I try another form? Perhaps something more down to earth?"

Shado looked at me thoughtfully, "What was it you were going to ask? "

I grinned slightly, "I was going to be nosey and ask as to the color of your undergarments. That is to say, what your avatar form looks like. Which is none of my business really."

Shado laughed, "Maybe not, but if you really want to see my avatar form, I don't mind."

"Would you think less of me if I asked?"

Shado looked surprised, "No. Why would I?"

I raised my hands, "I don't know. It's just seems-" the word intimate came to mind but I discarded it, "like I might be intrusive. I would not be surprised that, amongst shapeshifters, there's all sorts of protocol and morals involved in the exercise of this power."

Shado shrugged, "Well if there are, I don't know the ones for this land." She smiled, "Anyway, you've extended that trust to me. It's only fair I return it."

She concentrated and her skin, already pale, took on a opalescent shimmer. Her black hair took on a blue sheen that came with the black of midnight. She wore a short tunic of white that fell to just above her knees, belted with a golden sash. On each ankle glittered a small rainbow. The rainbow
colors were reflected in her eyes, no longer black, but now like a crazy kaleidoscope of color. She seemed almost ethereal like a rainbow itself, near ephemeral.

She smiled shyly, "What do you think?"

My mouth fell open in shock.

Somebody calls you, you answer quite slowly,
a girl with kaleidoscope eyes...

Follow her down to a bridge by the fountain...

Suddenly someone is there at the turnstile,
the girl with kaleidoscope eyes.

She looked worried "Is it that bad?"

I tried to composes myself and said in wonderment, "You're amazingly beautiful. Just like the song said."

She smiled, "Thank you." then paused and asked curiously, "What song?"

I turned away momentarily and ran a hand through my hair. "There's a story." Looking back toward Shado I said, "I've been haunted by a song whenever I'd been about shadow-play. It features lyrics that...I'll play it for you sometime if I happen across a guitar."

Is it Apollo’s blood that haunts me or was Arielle fishing?

Shado smiled, "I'd like that. Thank you for explaining." She then smoothly changed back into her normal form and took my hand "Shall we go get something to eat? I don't know about you, but I'm really hungry now."

Feeling like I was walking on air I accompanied Shado hand-in-hand. "Food. Yes. A wonderful idea, and thank you for sharing."

Shado smiled up at me. "Thank you too. I will admit some curiosity as to what one with the mark of Apollo would look like. Wings fit somehow."

I shrugged, and looked down at my hand and started. The symbol appeared, for the third time in my life, to have changed. The silver glyph looked like a jagged line stretched across my palm. I chuckled as I clenched my fist, "Apollo always was something of a show-off."

She laughed too, "Whereas with me and Julia, the mark is much less obvious. A rainbow on our ankles to remind us that Iris was the messenger."

I smiled saying, "One of these days I'll stop by the temple and read the brochures. These marks are a source of mystery to me."

Shado chuckled, "I only really know about the Iris mark. Each line tends to keep quiet."

Reaching the lodge, she left me alone for a moment saying, "I'll just go and see about food."

I plopped down on the sofa and said to myself, "I thought I was in shape but maybe I need to work out more."...

As I relaxed and waited I pondered the events so recently transpired.

Iris's ward...I wonder if her faction might be curious as to her location. Perhaps not. Marcus might be keeping them appraised. Still she must be a thought a considerable asset by more then just Quintus. Only 26 and fully vested in so many powers, skills, and abilities. Then there's Julia. She's also part of Iris. That's two of their number off the chessboard. How many people are there of a given faction anyways? Does everyone in her realm carry a mark of one sort or another? I doubt this greatly. Maybe it's just the royalty, like it is here in Amber with the Pattern. Is it directly connected with the white flame or is it a separate power? So many unknowns.

I looked down at the glyph on my hand. A mark that has recently changed it's shape once again. I need to compare notes with Dokiel and Faile sometime. Are all the children of Anthony part of Apollo's circle?

I continued my silent musings. Considering possibilities and forming questions in the waiting silence.

The door opened and Shado re-entered the room bearing a tray of food and some tea. She smiled "Here we go. This should help."

I noted that oddly Shado was now wearing a long-sleeved tunic as opposed to the short sleeved one she entered the lodge with a short time before. Her color was also a little paler as if she had a cold. She set the tray down with a smile, "Please, help yourself to the food. I know I will."

My eyes narrowed slightly but I smiled as I took some shortbread and tea. "Thank you. That was quite a strenuous activity. Your right about the caloric needs."

Shado nodded, "It's like any new activity. It takes time to develop the right muscles so to speak. Learning it gradually as you're doing will be better for you."

I smiled up at her from where I was sitting, "If your anywhere near as tired as I am you should probably sit down. It's either that or I should have to join you in standing."

Shado chuckled and sat opposite me. "How are you feeling?"

I inhaled deeply, "Not bad, I recover quickly from most activities." My gaze went to her long sleeved dress. "Say, are you cold?" My eyes flickered to the fireplace. "I could start a fire if you'd like?"

Shado unconsciously pulled the sleeves down a bit further as she replied, "No, just a little tired too I guess." She bit her lip then smiled and said, "I'm fine, don't worry."

I smiled, though my head turned slightly in uncertainty. There she goes, biting her lip again...and why did she pull her sleeves down even as she denied she was cold. What does being tired have to do with long or short sleeves? "You guess?" I reached over and gently took her hands in mine. "I do appreciate you taking the time to show me these things."

She smiled, "You need to know. And you have helped Julia and I since we came here."

As I held her hands, I noted that her temperature was fluctuating. As casually as I could, I rested a finger against the inside of her thumb and monitored her pulse. Apart from the pulse also being erratic, the skin at her wrists felt odd.

I blinked several times. Something wasn’t adding up. In a quiet, serious voice I said, "Humor me please," as I held her wrist up to look closely at the skin.

Shado pulled her hands back sharply before I could get a good look then hung her head "Don't."

I sat back and steepled my fingers, fixing Shado with my bicolored eyes. "Does your pulse and skin temperature always fluctuate randomly after shape shifting? I'm just a student here. If
this happens to me should I assume it's normal?"

In a voice just loud enough to be heard, she said, "No, it's not normal."

I shrugged, "But it's nothing I should be concerned about?"

She looked at me, her eyes large and haunted "Don't push, Flavel, please."

"Do you realize you bit your lip when you're uncertain?"

She looked surprised, "I do? No, I didn't realize that. Habit I suppose."

Something was wrong with her and like most of the royalty I knew, she was clamming up. Protecting a vulnerability. Except I wasn’t inclined to take advantage of her. I’m not certain I could even if it was to my benefit. My medical training was sounding all sorts of alarms. Distantly it occurred to me that for all her skills, she was very young and wasn’t practiced at hiding herself in conversation. Either that or she was subconsciously making a cry for help.

I weighed my options. I could decide it was her problem and she didn’t want my help or I could pry it out of her. I felt I had a good chance of prying but it might jeopardize my friendship with her. I decided to pry, but made my approach diagonally. I’ve had some practice working with patients before. I decided guilt would be the best target...Lord, I can be rather evil at times.

"I imagine Julian could do a decent enough job raising Julia if it comes to that. He's not big on providing compassion and warmth but he's firm and fair and would cherish her in his own fashion."

She looked away, "Why do you say that?"

"Because I asked if you were going to be okay, and you are uncertain. You've made it plain it's none of my business, which I can respect. Hey, you are your own person. I just thought I'd
mention that Julia would be taken care of as best we could if anything happened to you."

Shado winced, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to exclude you. It's just... I have to focus on making sure Julia is safe and has a future when I'm not around."

I nodded, "So your affliction is terminal?"

She nodded once, "It may as well be."

"Is this condition worsened by you training me in shape shifting? I hadn't noticed your symptoms before."

Shado shrugged, "It comes and goes. Some days are better than others. Restricting shape shifting helps though. Most of the time I just get tired fast. Other times..." She hesitated then pulled back a sleeve. The skin underneath was mottled and constantly changing color and texture.

She said quietly, "When I took on the Black Flame, I didn't have enough shape shifting. To survive it, I needed to change. "

I leaned forward to look at the skin. My medical persona firmly in place. Part of me fascinated at what I saw. "Do you know what this is? I've seen more then a few diseases in my time but nothing quite fits what I'm looking at."

Shado replied quietly, "Shape shifting cancer. My body is slowly breaking down."

I arched an eyebrow and muttered, "I'd say that's a big warning label to the discipline."

I leaned back and shook my head. "No cure presently known? I don't mean to sound like I'm interrogating you. I just want as much information on this as I can, maybe we have a means of fixing it here in Amber."

Shado ran a hand through her hair "One possible cure is to remove all traces of chaos. The White Flame might do it, but if I go back there.... And even if I do, how much of me would be left after?"

"The pattern would do it, technically your of the blood and could traverse it. Though with that much chaos in your system it would be extremely hard to essay it. Doubly so as you say you tire easily." I rested my head in my hands thinking.

Shado reached over and took my hands "Don't worry. Come, let's have some food."

"Yes, that is always wise. " I smiled grimly, "I think better when I'm not starving."

Shado eat too. As she did, the mottling gradually faded until her skin was back to normal. She said quietly, "Please don't tell anyone, especially not Julian."

As we eat and drank their tea, I said, "I'd like to ask some people I know about your condition. Your condition, I won't name names." I looked toward her. "Are there negative connotations with having shape shifting cancer? I mean, it's not like it's a venereal disease."

Shado shook her head, "Not that I know of. " She paused then added, "The legions and their families need to come first though. And you won't get this as long as you follow the guidelines I set out. I just pushed myself far beyond what I should have. It was a mistake."

"We have some time before that. Say, have you met my father?"

She shook her head "No, not yet. Would it help if I told you the full story?"

"It would be extremely helpful, yes."

Shado nodded then began quietly "Father had been dead a few weeks. He died in his sleep. My brothers and I suspected murder, but we couldn't prove it. Quintus as the new Emperor had my father's remains cremated. He... " Her voice caught then she continued, "Mother fell ill too. Quintus said if I didn't become Empress, he would have Julia and I sacrificed as impure. The public story was that Julia was my mother's, but people put it together. Mother said I should seek the aid of the Court of the Black Flame. She died not long after. I grabbed Julia and I ran, stopping only to get this device that I heard had been developed for transport. I thought it might help."

She looked into the distance, "It took a few weeks to reach the Court of the Black Flame. Julia was only a few weeks old and she got sick at times. And nobody would help us. They were too afraid of Quintus. When we got there, they wouldn't believe me. I was a Caesar and Quintus had shown them hostility. They said I would have to take on the Black Flame before they would help."

She shuddered, "I didn't know where to go or what to do so I did."

I reached over and hugged her, "You didn't have a choice. You did what you had to do. "

Shado slowly relaxed into the hug and whispered, "Thank you."

Slowly releasing her I smiled, "And who knows? Maybe there is a cure in this realm for your malady. I'll make some discreet inquiries."

Shado smiled up at me. "Again, my thanks." She pulled back, "So how are you finding being a team leader?"

I grinned ruefully, "I don't know if I'm cut out for this leadership stuff. I made it something of a habit of working alone the last several decades."

Shado smiled, "You'll do fine. Who is all in your team?"

"Pagan, me, Clovis, you."

Shado chuckled, "You and Clovis working together. That will be interesting."

Waving a hand lazily, I said, "I doubt there will be any friction. We talked at the Wake and we appear to be on good terms."

Privately though, I wondered much the same. The last thing I needed was to be in charge and simultaneously be involved in a love triangle that included, technically, a subordinate. Shado and I shared cultures where a leader was obeyed absolutely and although I considered myself more a spokesman then a authoritative leader perceptions and reality could make this a bizarre situation.
                                                            
Shado and I continued to talk about inconsequentials as we finished our meal. As we enjoy our second cup of tea, I started as I realized the time. To Shado I saId, "I just realized the time. I have an appointment I should not be late to." With polite goodbyes we parted company...

I stood in my old castle haunt in the observation spire I used sometimes at night for star gazing. Though it was true I did have an appointment, Shado’s affliction took precedence. The longer a cancer remained the harder it would be to cure. Amber didn’t have much in the way of shape shifters but Anthony had remarked that in the Courts, not being able to shape shift was the exception. If any place would have a cure it would be there.

I wanted to confide in Anthony. It was the logical choice as he knew much about shape shifting, and had resided both in the Courts and in Shado’s realm. The trouble was, Anthony knew of Shado and Shado had made it clear not to tell anyone. If I asked Anthony, he’d figure out it was Shado in moments. Love is a funny thing. I could not break that faith even if it meant her life. In the final analysis, it was her life and not mine to manipulate. I would have to discover a cure a while maintaining patient confidentiality, and given my schedule...I had three days in which to succeed.

I sighed, “Looks like Sorcery will have to wait for now.” I chuckled to myself. I’d often thought sorcery was a waste of time. Sure it could be useful but maintaining spells seemed like a profitless use of time. Not that I’d turn down an offer to be trained by a master like my father. “I hope Anthony doesn’t grow too concerned at my absence.”

Walking down the stairs of the spire I entered the corridors and handed the letter I had penned for him to a passing servant with instructions to deliver it to Fiona’s residence. Time to wasting. I had to get busy.