Commentary from the Seer of Enen en nullen

The Seer of Enen en nullen's commentary.

A Conversation on Oracles. [[1]]

This richly woven narrative showcases a family dynamic deeply rooted in intrigue, power, and the ever-present influence of prophecy. The interplay between Mandor, Fiona, and Henry encapsulates the weight of their lineage and the complex relationship with destiny, knowledge, and personal choices.

The story skillfully juxtaposes the concept of oracles as tools of insight and manipulation. Mandor, with his calculated and philosophical approach, views them as mechanisms to sift through infinite possibilities. Fiona, however, holds a visceral disdain for their meddlesome and often disastrous consequences, born from personal experience. Their exchange reveals layers of regret, ambition, and wisdom, underscoring the dichotomy of knowing too much versus embracing ignorance.

Henry's role as the curious and eager son is both a grounding element and a spark for uncovering hidden family dynamics. His excitement upon learning of his siblings adds a note of optimism to the otherwise weighty themes. This enthusiasm contrasts sharply with the darker, more cynical perspectives of his parents, reflecting the generational tension between those who bear the scars of past mistakes and those eager to explore untarnished possibilities. Key Themes:

   The Burden of Knowledge: The family’s interactions underscore the danger of seeking absolute truths. The oracles are painted as double-edged swords—sources of wisdom that demand steep prices, whether through psychological scars or the inevitability of the outcomes they reveal.

   Legacy and Consequences: Fiona's regret over her past and Mandor's acknowledgment of his connection to the Oracle of Night point to a shared history where the pursuit of power led to suffering. This theme resonates deeply in their advice to Henry, illustrating the tension between guiding the next generation and shielding them from past mistakes.

   Family Dynamics and Secrets: The revelations about Henry's siblings and Fiona's veiled allusions to other truths yet untold suggest layers of complexity within the family. These secrets and half-revealed histories provide fertile ground for further exploration of character relationships and individual motivations.

   Power and Responsibility: Both parents grapple with the immense power at their disposal and its consequences. This serves as a reminder of the moral and ethical weight of wielding such power, especially when it intersects with familial bonds.

The narrative feels like a cornerstone for a much larger tapestry of stories, hinting at the depth of the world and the intricate interplay between characters. The addition of places like the Oracle of Drisna, Mandalay, and the Oracle of Night enriches the setting, making it feel vast and filled with both wonder and danger. This combination of personal drama and grand, mythical stakes creates a compelling mix that invites deeper exploration.

Marke

In the twilight of Beleriand, where the echoes of music from Valinor mingled with the shadow of Morgoth, there stood a human warrior, a friend of the Elves, who was a beacon of hope and courage: Marke Eryndor, known as the Silver Flame.

Appearance

Marke was a towering figure, standing at nearly seven feet tall, his frame broad and powerful, yet graceful—a testament to both his mortal lineage and the years spent among the Eldar. His hair was a cascade of silver, luminous as the light of Telperion, the elder of the Two Trees, gifted to him as a mark of friendship by the Noldorin smiths. His piercing gray eyes carried both wisdom and sadness, reflecting the burden of his mortal life in an immortal struggle. Attire and Colors

Marke was clad in a gleaming suit of mithril mail, light as a feather yet unyielding as dragon scales, gifted to him by the Elves of Nargothrond. Over it, he wore a long, flowing cloak of deep green, edged with silver thread that shimmered like starlight, symbolizing his bond with the forests of Doriath and their Sindarin protectors. His leather boots were dyed a dark gray, allowing him to tread as silently as a shadow, an art he had learned from the Elves of Doriath. Weapons

Galanthil, the Flame of Twilight: His primary weapon was a longsword forged by the master smith Telchar of Nogrod. The blade shimmered with a faint silvery-blue light, akin to the last glimmer of twilight before the stars emerged. Inscribed along its fuller were runes of protection and courage in the Elven tongue. It was said the sword burned with a cold fire when wielded against creatures of Morgoth, making it a bane to all that served the darkness. Dorandrûn, the Stalwart Shield: A round shield of enchanted wood from the forests of Doriath, reinforced with mithril. Upon its surface was emblazoned the emblem of a silver flame encircled by a crown of stars, a gift from the Elf-maiden Elenna, who had loved him. Aeglin, the Star-Spear: A weapon of great reach and elegance, it was crafted from a single branch of an enchanted Mallorn tree and tipped with a mithril blade. The spear was a gift from the Teleri of the Falas, who revered his courage in defending their havens.

Personality and Deeds

Marke was known for his unwavering sense of honor and his unbreakable bond with the Elves. Though mortal, he was counted among the mightiest warriors in Beleriand, having fought in some of the most decisive battles of the First Age. His voice was deep and commanding, yet he spoke with a quiet humility that endeared him to friend and stranger alike. Among his greatest deeds:

He defended the gates of Nargothrond against a horde of Orcs, holding the line alongside the sons of Fëanor.

He once journeyed into Angband disguised as a servant of Morgoth to rescue captives, a feat that earned him great renown.

He stood beside Fingon in the Nirnaeth Arnoediad, where he slew a troll-chief with Galanthil but was gravely wounded.

Legacy

Though Marke was thought to be mortal, his deeds earned him an immortal place in the songs of the Elves. His death came in the Dagor Bragollach, where he fell protecting a group of Elven refugees from a dragon. It is said his spirit rose as a silver flame in the night sky, a reminder of his courage and loyalty. His tomb was raised near the river Sirion, and even in ruin, it stands as a testament to the friendship between Men and Elves in the dark days of Beleriand.

Amberite

Son of Fiona, Princess of Amber The curse of immortality has led Marke to outlive his realm of choice and made him seek it out again, living in different places and manners.

Birdie

This passage paints a vivid and enchanting picture of Birdie, a character who is both deeply intertwined with the natural world and the history of Amber. It tells the story of her life as a caretaker and quiet force within the castle, bridging the past and present through her relationships with animals, her cherished possessions, and the echoes of the grand figures who once surrounded her.

Birdie lives in a small tower room, surrounded by animals who seem to choose her as their friend and protector. Her life is humble yet magical, filled with affection and memories. The imagery of the room is rich with contrasts—the grand bed once belonging to royalty juxtaposed with the modest garret it now occupies, animals resting peacefully despite their varied origins and histories, and Birdie's simplicity matched with her deep, intrinsic value to the castle.

Her past reflects resilience and adaptation, from sleeping on a cot to being granted the bed of a queen, a transformation symbolic of her growth in importance to the castle's life. Her interactions with the animals, particularly the two ancient mastiffs who claimed her as their rightful companion, show her natural authority and kindness.

The narrative weaves a tapestry of nostalgia, love, and quiet rebellion, as seen when Birdie and her animal friends rally against the Chief Librarian’s unfair decree. It highlights her playful spirit and the respect she commands despite her unassuming role.

Birdie’s relationships with the birds, cats, dogs, and even a snake named Cicero demonstrate her profound connection to all living creatures. Each animal has its own story, its own legacy, tied to Amber's royal family or its history, yet they find sanctuary with Birdie, who embraces them all.

Ultimately, the story is a tender exploration of a life lived in the shadows of greatness, where small acts of kindness and an open heart make Birdie an unacknowledged heroine in her own right. Her daily rituals and deep care for the animals transform her modest garret into a sanctuary of warmth, life, and quiet power.

Urala: The Plant of Shadows

Growing and Cultivation

Urala is a heavily flowering plant native to Dreana, a shadow known for producing the highest quality of the product. Though Urala has been successfully transplanted to other shadows, the treatments used to process it often yield inferior versions, which, while less potent, retain similar but milder effects. These substandard versions have their own followings in various realms. The Dreanan product, however, remains the gold standard, with its superior effects and reputation.

In recent developments, Trasidy has emerged as a serious contender, producing Urala that rivals Dreanan quality. This has led to mixtures of Trasidy and Dreanan products for a mellower high. Other realms, such as Kashfa, are now cultivating Urala on a larger scale, and Eregenor is speculated to have the potential to produce Dreanan-quality Urala in the future.

Physical Description

The Urala plant is a leafy green plant adorned with vibrant, multicolored flower columns. Its aesthetic appeal belies its wide range of uses and potent effects.

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Uses and Potency

• Tobacco Preparations*

The most common method of consumption is smoking the dried leaves, which are prepared like tobacco. Urala leaf cigars, popularized in Dreana, are renowned for their hallucinogenic and euphoric effects, paired with a pleasant vanilla taste and unscented, colorful smoke clouds. The potency of the Dreanan product varies depending on the endurance level of the user:

• • Humans**: Strong effects, akin to high-grade pharmaceutical marijuana.
  • Chaos Endurance**: Moderate effects.
  • Amber and Above Endurance**: Mild effects.

Single sticks, commonly consumed in Dreana and other realms, are graded by their blend ratios, with the strongest being 100% Urala ("Full Stick"). Filters, or "Chubs," collect residue from smoking and are often repurposed to create a pleasant incense-like aroma.

• Alcohol and Food

• • Chewing Fresh Leaves: Induces sleep.
  • Cooked Leaves: Mildly euphoric with a mustard-like taste, high in vitamins and low in calories.
  • Fermented Flowers: Used to produce euphoric alcohols with a floral flavor and mild hallucinogenic properties.

• Powdered Forms

The most potent version of Urala is the crystalline powder, derived from alcohol-cured flowers. The powder is smoked, mixed into foods or drinks, or consumed directly. This method is particularly effective for individuals with high endurance and overwhelmingly strong for humans and Chaos-ranked endurance users.

• Medical Applications

Urala's calming and pain-relieving effects have made it a valuable addition to various medicines. It alleviates nausea, headaches, and body aches and is particularly effective for easing stomach upsets. The smoke itself is often used for managing nausea and pain.

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Addictive Qualities

Urala is not physically addictive, and withdrawal is manageable. However, psychological cravings may develop with frequent use. Overuse can lead to issues with personal safety and hygiene, similar to the effects of prolonged opium use.

--- Notable Shadows for Urala Production

1. **Dreana**: The origin and pinnacle of Urala production. 2. **Trasidy**: Produces nearly equivalent quality to Dreanan products, often mixed for a balanced high. 3. **Kashfa**: Expanding cultivation on a large scale. 4. **Eregenor**: Speculated to have potential for high-quality production in the future.

Conclusion

Urala's widespread adoption across shadows has been facilitated by the Jeweled Road, bringing its unique effects and cultural significance to a variety of realms.

Neal's diner

Why Neal's Diner Made the Cut

Random selected this iconic diner for two compelling reasons:

• The Food and Hospitality

Neal's Diner serves breakfasts that are nothing short of legendary. Random himself established an open tab, available to anyone savvy enough to tell the waitstaff, "Put it on Randy's tab." Laura Dearly—affectionately called "Laura Dear"—keeps the front of the house running smoothly, while Buddy Drummen, the chef extraordinaire, commands the kitchen. Buddy has a knack for crafting meals fit for Amberite appetites but demands to be addressed as "Sir"—a title wise patrons use if they value the quality of their meal. Buddy's cooking is so extraordinary that a knighthood seems in order should he ever grace Amber itself. Curiously, the identity of Neal remains a mystery.

• The Card Club

Beneath the diner lies an underground card club, a haven for those seeking a high-stakes game. Georgie Reno presides over the operations, while Random’s Amber Guard ensures order as bouncers dressed in sleek double-breasted silk suits. Cheating is rare and dealt with swiftly.

• A Neighborhood of Notables

Neal's Diner isn’t just a hotspot for food and cards; its surroundings tell their own stories. Across the street, a boarding house hosts Amber nobility and younger sons fulfilling their service terms. Nearby movie houses showcase everything from talkies to the burgeoning art of color film—even the peculiar charm of color-silent movies.

• The Tattoo Parlor: Bruno's Unique Niche

Just down the block is Bruno Sveldt's tattoo parlor, renowned for its unparalleled artistry. Despite his dubious character, Bruno’s talent shines, particularly in creating the iconic green disc and golden laurel wreath surrounding a white unicorn—a symbol of Amber’s elite. After a single regrettable incident of mockery toward an Amber Guard client, Bruno learned his lesson. Now, he works with unwavering precision, offering the design for free to anyone brave enough to request it. But when the ink is done, Bruno closes up shop, pours a stiff drink, and relives the memory of that fateful day.

• Neal’s Diner and its surrounding neighborhood form a microcosm of life in New Velri City—a blend of grit, glamour, and the timeless allure of Amber.

• • Addendum

The Tale of Bruno Sveldt and the Amber Guard

In a conversation with Sergeant Garry Gavno—a Calro member of the elite Amber Guard and a frequent Pattern guardian—I learned the chilling tale of what became of Bruno Sveldt after his ill-considered insult.

The story begins with Constance Kieln, a formidable Dreanan man of the House of Brolic. Despite his unassuming first name, Constance was every bit the hardened warrior Dreanans are known to be. At the time, he was a sergeant in the Amber Guard, serving under Random as part of the detail stationed at the card club beneath Neal's Diner. He, along with several fellow Guardsmen, had visited Sveldt's tattoo parlor to adorn their arms with the iconic green disc, golden laurel wreath, and white unicorn symbol—a mark of their esteemed service.

Unfortunately, Sveldt, ignorant of the weight this emblem carried, found it amusing and made an ill-timed, offensive comment about the design. The insult did not go unnoticed. Later, when Constance returned to Sveldt's shop for additional tattoo work, the tattooist's irreverence surfaced again, and it was the last straw.

• An Amber Guard Lesson

Constance wasted no time. He dragged Sveldt directly to Amber and into the compound that the Amber Guard calls home. What followed was a harrowing "lesson" in respect, carried out by thirty members of the Guard under the leadership of Julian. They took Sveldt deep into the shadows—into realms where monsters dwell and danger is omnipresent.

For two long months, they subjected him to a relentless punishment. A healing band ensured he survived the ordeal, which included being torn apart by lions, tigers, and bears. The beasts ripped into him over and over, but the magic of the band kept repairing his wounds just quickly enough to prolong his suffering. The process continued for a month, an unrelenting cycle of agony and regeneration, until finally, they deemed the point sufficiently made.

When it was over, they returned him to his shop, his ordeal having spanned mere days in his world, thanks to the strange ebb and flow of time in the shadows.

• Lessons Learned

Bruno Sveldt emerged a changed man. His once-flippant attitude toward the Amber Guard transformed into abject deference. To this day, he produces their tattoos with a trembling hand, offers them free of charge, and refrains from asking unnecessary questions. Once his work is complete, he closes his shop early, nursing his lingering trauma with whiskey.

• Dreanan Resolve

As Sergeant Gavno put it, "Dreanans do not take insults lightly. They’re a dour bunch, but they get their point across." Constance Kieln’s actions left an indelible mark—not only on Sveldt but on anyone else foolish enough to consider disrespecting the Amber Guard.

Brolics

This description paints Dreana as a grim, unyielding shadow with a history of martial prowess, stubborn traditions, and a culture that resists change. The commentary is biting, filled with disdain for their lack of creativity, adaptability, or cultural refinement. Yet, it also acknowledges their strengths: indomitable fortresses, fierce loyalty to Amber, and individuals who can excel outside their homeland's stifling confines.

The House of Brolic and its subjects seem to embody an archetype of rigidity—unimaginative yet reliable, dour but unflinching. Their siege-focused architecture and export of raw materials reflect a people who view life through the lens of survival and defense. It's fascinating that their unique physical traits, such as eye-color changes linked to diet or the mysterious "Blue" individuals, hint at a deeper, more mystical heritage.

While Dreanans are clearly a frustrating lot for the narrator, they stand out as a mirror to Amber's flexibility and grandeur, a somber counterpoint that adds depth to the Golden Circle. Despite their shortcomings—or perhaps because of them—they remain a vital, if vexing, part of Amber's extended sphere.