Editing Volume One: The Vampire of the Dungeons (section)

====<big>Jurt, The Fount and Jasra</big>====

*'''Michael James Watson'''
Moments later you arrive in an ornately tile courtyard of a heavily secure looking castle. Troops walk in uniform of several colors. Parapet line the roofs and towers top each corner. the color scheme is red and sandy but other colors are common in the ornate mosaics.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
 Upon arrival Realmer takes stock of the situation and has several Spells at the tip of his mind, ready to be loose if this turns out to be an ambush.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
A functionary walks toward you both.
Jurt waves him away, "I know where i am going. Go tell your liege i await them within. Don't tarry or you'll sleep the night in the sewers"
"Lord, you know you must be announced.. Many people need to be informed of your presence!"
Jurt stops, waving his hand the man flies up in the air, spinning in quick circles in place. Swirling quickly he starts screaming in terror.
"Then by all means Drixtra, inform them... I'm sure they can here you from there."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt waves ahead to a passageway." Its just through here"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Walking into a closer courtyard, the tiles are fine and exquisitely detailed. Guards come to alert instantly, but clearly recognize Jurt.
He walks to the center where a fountain spurts up sprays of magical energy in red and golds and greens and blues, falling into the font.
"I need a little cleaning and this is the best place for me to do it. Do you recognize it?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer follows Jurt then stares in wonder. When he responds to Jurt he does not remove his eyes from the Fount.
"Yes, from descriptions and drawings in a tome in the Library of Amber, but never have I seen it with my own eyes. The Fount of Power at the Keep of the Four Worlds." There is wonder and excitement in Realmer's tone and demeanor.
"May I examine it more carefully?" Realmer asks as he 'draws the pattern' before his eyes then points to the Fount. "I promise not to touch or look too deeply."
Even though Realmer does have the Advanced Pattern semi-active, holding his Hung Spells, it is not fully active or being used as a Lens, currently.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Jump in if you like. Never know what will happen, unprepared and all. But i'm the last person to want to harsh your buzz. I'll just be a minute. "
He hops up and bathes in the glowing magical font. running it over his body, sitting down to float cross-legged in it
*'''Michael James Watson'''
A woman come walking in, dressed in high renaissance attire of red and gold.
She looks at you, raises an eye brow.
"Him i know" pointing a rude third finger at Jurt.
"You... Lord Relmopator, son of Hagalta and Satura, son of Dworkin...I've seen your graphic novel.. and your trump of course. I'm Queen Jasra of Kashra,"Extending her hand.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer bows at her self introduction, knowing who she was already, also from a Trump image, most likely. While still bowed, Realmer takes her hand gently and goes to kiss her hand, discreetly as possible takes a whiff to make sure there is no poison present, then kisses her hand before letting go and returning to upright position.
"Majesty. It is a great an unexpected pleasure to meet you, Queen Jasra. And you have named me and my lineage exactly, but the 'graphic novel' I was totally unaware of; I must seek it out and read it one day. Thank you for informing me of its existence. And thank you for allowing me to see this place, unexpected and uninvited as I am." He bows again.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
She laughs as a page brings out a few glasses and a pitcher in red glass. Pouring you smell heavy cinnamon. Handing one to you
"I don't suppose you can do anything about my spinning Herald? I have a pact not to act against Jurt. or his magics."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I'm sure I could do 'something', Majesty, but I'm not sure he and I have that kind of friendship... 'relationship' yet, to be honest we've only just met and only know each other by reputation; I wouldn't want to overstep my bounds. But I might be able to do something for his vertigo and nausea." He says as he looks up at the spinning fellow then looks to Jasra and smiles to convey he is making a joke. He still wonders why Random would think him humorless or incapable of making a joke... (player laughing hysterically while typing).
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Your son has granted me Access, to some degree, to the Fount. Seeing you here, I wonder if he had the authority to extend such access. I would like to see how it works, at least. And if possible, refresh and charge my Hung Spells and perhaps refresh myself? I have no intention of 'bathing' in it... just channeling off what I need. Again, with your permission, of course, Queen Jasra."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
She nods.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
First, Realmer brings up the pattern Lens, to take a better look at how the fount of power works. Then once he has deciphered this he will channel the necessary energy, carefully, to himself, his artifacts and creature in order to refresh and recharge his hung spells and himself as he said he would. And nothing else.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"The page will get you quarters. Jurt will be restive once he gets out. He has permission to bring people here, even train them to access it. Its part of my deal to be able to call on him for help. I do not have a good history with Amber, as you might guess...so.. i take what i can."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"If you can release my Herald I'd appreciate it. He is throwing up on the guards"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Feel free to work your magics here. See the shelves up on the walls? Each is about 10 by 8. Sit on one and work from there. If you cant get there on your own.. well, weak magic"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
She turns and walks oof, stopping and looking back.."Tell Mr Wonderful dinner is at 6. at 7 I'm sending a plate of anchovies to his room"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Hey Jurt!" Realmer calls out in a friendly voice, "Your mother asked if I could do something about her Herald... would you mind it I..." Realmer gestures towards the floating, spinning, hurling herald but does not finish the sentence leaving the request somewhat unsaid.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
While Realmer was looking at the Fount through the Pattern Lens, he could not but help look at Jurt, and the Powers about him. Since he was more focused on Untara when the two entered his office at the Embassy back in Adagalasck, Realmer takes the time now to look Jurt over and see what he is about.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt pops out of the font like a cork. lands, raising his Logrus and several power markers light up. He looks freaked like a cornered tiger"MY MOTHER? DARA IS HERE??!??!!?!??!?!Shitshitshit.. where.."
looking around...Frowning..
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"What?" Realmer says in a distracted way as he looks from the spinning herald to Jurt then the direction Jasra walked off in. Then he looks back to Jurt and says, "You know, Queen Jasra, your moth...." there is a long pause and Realmer actually blushes.
"It seems I have forgotten myself and others I am so drunk with power from the Fount... it seems I had forgotten whom I was talking to and whom brought me hear and who is related to whom. I beg your forgiveness, Jurt. It's just that I've never received such a surge of power so quickly and easily... usually such power and energies come slowly and with much effort."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Oh, and Jasra said dinner is at 7 and if you have not arrived by 6 she... no, wait... dinner is at SIX and if you have not arrived by SEVEN she will send a plate of sardines to your quarters... anchovies to your room."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Well, when she says she is sending something to your room she fills it top to bottom. I hadn't intended to stay. The fact is that Untara has an.....addictive personality. She bonds to someone and they get to where they can't leave her. Its a magical thing. Dworkin pointed it out to me. It requires she personally chose to set you aside. At that point you are free of it. She does not know this happens. Its not her fault. But it works. She just released me so i came here to rid my self of any residual. I can go back to her now and ill have....protections. I sicced her on Vance."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, it's up to you, Jurt. We haven't been gone long, relatively speaking... unless this place has a really fast time flow compared to Vulsar Base. I still think we have time to stop at your club and talk a little business. Plus, I still haven't seen the inside of your club and I am curios."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"This place is 8 to 1. Vulsar is 60 to 1. I want to get back to Amber for esoteric reasons but a few days here makes sense. We could even go to Kashra"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"As you think best. But where ever we go to talk business, let it be somewhere there is alcohol and smokables and let it be soon. I didn't really get a chance to get a good buzz at the Embassy and it is hard to relax around the King. Random I mean. Julian and I get on well enough... mostly because of what I did for him and his wife, Nina. And as I think on it... let us find a quiet room here and get that drink and smoke and talk. Shall we?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"BY all means.. "
HE walks back and down a corridor,
"Oh... i should probably let him down, huh? The hearld falls.
In time through the labyrinthine place he finds his spacious rooms. Currently being cleaned and freshened.
He eves a hand and fills a table with bottles and herbs and takes a seat.
"We better talk here. Latter will be all about Jasra"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer falls a step or two behind Jurt and follows him to his rooms. He slips the small pouch out of his sleeve pocket and looks at it, then glances up to make sure Jurt is not looking then looks at its contents. (almost forgot that part). Then he puts is away once he knows what it is. Most likely back up the same sleeve.
Once at Jurt's room, Realmer looks over the assortment and smells several before deciding on a strong clear rum. He then sniffs his way through the herbs until he picks out the best for a relaxing buzz without hallucinations. He then chooses a chair that is out of melee range (influences of Gangdis) but still close enough for comfortable conversation, sits, turns his bone wand into a long stemmed bone pipe, loads and lights it, draws deeply and holds it a very long time before finally exhaling with a smile and a sigh. Realmer then takes a hearty swig of the rum, holding it in his mouth for a moment before swallowing. By the smell of the burning herbs, Jurt can tell he selected them to go with the rum.
“Now, before we begin talking business, there is something else I would like to talk about... or more accurately, somethings I would like you to hear. First, I am going to ask that we trust one another...” Realmer snorts and smiles, then chuckles softly before continuing. “That we trust one another as much as our respective family's and upbringing's will allow, that is. I am hoping that you and I can have a deeper respect for one another and a deeper level of trust, if that is possible. There are some things I will have to share with you if we are to do business and some things I would like to share... but I will have to have your Word, and your Trust, that you will not betray my secrets or betray me and by extension, my companions and my loyalties.”
“As you may, or may not know, I am not of the Line of Oberon and was not raised in Amber nor spent any time in Amber prior to or during the Black Road War and Patternfall. I was raised, for a time, by my Grandfather, Dworkin, in a distant Shadow of High Magic. When Grandfather thought I was ready, or when he thought he couldn't put it off any longer, he brought me to a place where I could walk a Pattern, a place called Ambir; a Shade of Amber that is nothing more than a Ghost Shadow, an Amber that failed and fell and is now, and will forever be, decaying into ruin and rubble. Dworkin didn't feel it was safe to bring me to Amber at that time... I know it was sometime after the forming of The Black Road, but well before Pattenfall. We spent little time in Ambir but while there he taught me the basics of how to use the powers of the Pattern, how to create Trumps and how to further manipulate High Order Magics... then he took me back into Shadow, where he said I would be safe, then he left again. I spent most of my life living in and exploring Shadow, away from Amber and its Influences. But after many decades of exploring Shadow and experimenting with and improving my powers, I grew more curious about Amber and began making my way through Shadow in that direction. I didn't know where Amber was, exactly, but I did know where Ambir was and that it was close... close enough, to Amber to serve my purposes.”
“I had been hanging around the Shadows in the general area of Ambir and Amber for a few years, an area outside the Golden Circle I affectionately call the 'Tarnished Circle'. This was right before King Random ordered that all Offspring be Brought into the Fold, as it were... since I was not far from Amber, relatively speaking, it was not difficult for Dworkin to locate me and escort me to Amber and introduced me to the King so I could Swear my Fealty and Declare my Loyalty. That was back in the early 30's, shortly after you arrived and established Thin Whip's. I went mostly unnoticed by the Family... most of the Family. I spent a lot of time in the lower levels of Castle Amber, and the Library, studying, researching and... creating. When I did leave the Castle it was almost always at night and I did my best to avoid any unnecessary trouble... back then.”
Realmer pauses to smile reflectively then continues. “Then I started paying more attention to the goings on in the lower levels of the castle and the upper levels too... then I got noticed and got appointed as Amber's Ambassador to Adagalasck and have been quite occupied there ever since.”
Realmer fills his glass and takes a sip, then asks, “So, can we work together, Jurt? Can we establish a respect and trust between us?”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"You're legend is as interesting as it is unadvertised. The vampire of the depths. I have often wanted to visit the depths but I'm sort of on Random's restricted list. Not likely he will ever trust me. So why should you trust me? I've done you no harm and I've spent a long time in Amber.. there is much to learn over the gaming tables and dance floors. The question is what do you want?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, I have no reason not to trust you. As you have said, you have done nothing to harm me and I nothing to harm you. And I feel that since we were both raised outside of Amber we may share some common views, which could help us form a more trustworthy relationship. I am hoping that you will be able to provide some access to people, information and powers that I may not be exposed to otherwise. Plus... It's good to know someone outside the family."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Well, then , lets sing kumbiya....What do you want? "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer takes a few puffs while he considers what he really does want from Jurt. He takes a sip of the rum then another puff and lets it out with a sigh and a large cloud of smoke.
"I guess what I really want, Jurt... is a friend... now that I truly think on it." He pauses again and takes another puff. "A friend that is not a family member or of Amber. Someone I can talk to about Amber, and other things, who has an outsider's point of view like I do. A... non-Amber point of view. And having someone to share with that will not necessarily report back to the King... or other Royal or Official ears. It would be nice to just have someone to banter with, talk magic and politics and such without having to feel someone is looking over my shoulder all the time. No offense, Bob." Realmer says as he turns to face the purple beholder hovering over his right shoulder.
The Beholder turns slightly and looks out of the corner of it's central eye at Realmer and says in a deep rich baritone voice, "None taken." Then Bob the Beholder looks at Jurt and says, "Plus, you're probably the only person Realmer knows that he could talk to about Necromancy and other Taboo Magics without receiving a look of disdain or a lecture."
"Thank you for your input, Bob; succinct and helpful as always" Realmer replies as he toasts his familiar and takes a gulp followed by a puff.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He nod, "Lets just keep in mind that I am sort of on the run from Chaos and want to be on good terms with Amber.. I've visited Azcala but it not a touristy place. I'll tell you this. Amber is less crazy then Chaos.. Im soon to go to Avalong to see my brother who i attempted to kill for aa long time..So lets keep "friend" as an across the table term. Not that im opposed but id hate to have you blamed for my fouls. Im always eager to chat about magics of course.. New info is a blesing. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, bandying about the word 'friend' is a quick way to get them killed. A lesson I know well. Even way back in my days as an Adventurer I would never refer to my friends as anything more than Adventuring Companions or Acquaintances, for their safety and mine. And I'll do my best to keep you on good terms with Amber and the King... as you yourself said, my credentials are impeccable. And I'm not specifically looking to do anything that will put me or others on bad terms with the Crown... but I do feel a bit restricted in Amber... even in the dungeons I knew I was being watched. In Adagalasck I felt under less scrutiny, but was still working for the Crown's interests. I guess I'm just looking to do some things that I want to do and not be scrutinized."
Realmer takes another swig then another puff and says, "I must say; most excellent libations. I am certainly feeling a bit more relaxed. Thank you for the opportunity to unwind a bit, Jurt, it is appreciated."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
looking into the pouch, Realmer sees 5 marble sized stones, one each purple, blue, green, yellow, and red.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt looks curiously, "Something bright and shiny i gather, I can smell the magic from here. Lets start our table friendship with what they are. We can talk beholders later"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer raises an eyebrow as he looks at Jurt... then smiles, recalling days of yore showing off the spoils of dungeon delving with companions around a table in a tavern over drinks.
"Sure. Why not. But I'm pretty sure I'm going to need another drink and some more herbs for this." Realmer uses a Cantrip to 'Present' the bottle of rum to his hand, he refills then reverses the Cantrip to put the bottle back. Another Cantrip brings him some more herbs directly to his pipe which he lights with yet another Cantrip.. Then he smiles as he inhales and presents the Stones to Jurt by dumping them into the palm of his own hand.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt whistles..."I thought as much.. Wonder where Nina got them.. One of each. Get 50 service coins and you can petition for Lordship in Mandalay.. Impressive.. I've a a green and a Blue..Tricky to use. they tend to not be good combat items.. good from peaceful pursuits though."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Jasra would teach you to enter the Font for one of those. But it makes one crazy for a time. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I'd prefer to keep my senses, libations excluded, thank you and no. Though I am intrigued by the Fount of Power, I have heard the stories and read what is available in Amber... and now that I have viewed it, felt it and experienced the tiniest fraction of its Power... I am impressed but wary. Leave it at that for now."
Realmer takes a puff and rolls the Stones around in his hand then says, "I must say, certainly an unexpected gift. I recall reading about them and their powers in a tome in the Castle Library, and I agree; they are not specifically combat oriented nor is their power necessarily aggressive... buuuut... if used wisely, they could be an effective support tool in combat. As any good Apprentice Wizard knows; 'Wizards are not Warriors. Wizards are Support for Warriors. Stay back. Use your wits. Stay alive to cast your Spells.' Fuckin' Bigby. What in the Hells does he know."
Realmer laughs, sounding a bit drunk and high. Realmer begins juggling the Stones, using Cantrips to make up for any poor tosses or catches. He also focuses his Psyche on them all, to see if they glow like the tome said they would. Once glowing, he blows a smoke ring through the center of them, then smiles at Jurt.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt chuckles and leans back..."They can be attuned.. You might want to walk them through the pattern.."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I bore mine through a woven Logrus. Hurt like hell but they bound to me"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, I was contemplating that... and I will be accompanying the King on his Royal Procession along the Jeweled Road to Mandalay... hmmm... perhaps I shall walk the Pattern and attune them just prior to leaving."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt,"Random is taking a Progress to Mandalay? Hell yes you want to attune them.. Swallow them and pass them through your colon if you think that will make them closer to you. hmmm Think Random would let me come along. Probably a good chance to make some credit in Random's poker game. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Oh. You didn't know. Oh my, faux pas. I have spoken too freely." Realmer laughs and takes another puff before letting the juggled Stones fall into his cupped hands. He puts all away but one; the Yellow. He holds it in his hand tightly to see if the double buzz goes away.
"I can ask who else is going and see what I can do. No promises. Not really sure why he wants me along considering he has many others who are more powerful than I to take along. And why is the bond with the Stones so important? Do they function better? Or is it a matter of easier retrieval if lost or stolen?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"And how does one get Service Coins for Mandalay Lordship. Since I will be going there I might want to think about getting some, getting a Lordship and taking the Mark."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Be of service to Mandalay. The details are understandably vauge. Adrian might give you them for showing up. He is collecting those of Amber blood. Has more then Chaos does and we brew our own. I understand running a venue in the Dramaturge pays well. Either way, Adrian keeps track so no surprise visitors show up.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt sets out a silver box and takes the lid off. Swirling it briefly it becomes the size of a palm. Pouring the contents of the box on the tray the multicolored powder shimmer in the light. Taking a 5 finger pinch of smoking herb he mixes the two together. Filling two pipes with the mixture he pushes one over and lights his. Holding the smoke he starts speaking, exhaling a cloud of multicolored smoke.
"The thing to remember is that Mandalay is a primal realm on the same scale as Amber or Avalon. It was meant to rival Chaos as well. It may talk all sweetness and nature peacefulness but these realms are at war even if their rulers and people are not. Whatever Ygg or Adrian intended the second thing the sentient Mark of Mandalay did was gather together every shadow with big-assed roads, every major shadowtrail and ripped those shadows lose to lay them side by side,connecting the roads, and making them open to everyone. That may seem like a feature for communication but it was also a declaration of war. No matter what the realm kings and primal beasts may think, that's what the powers consider the jeweled road. Keep that in mind when you use those stones. They may be powerful, but they are partisan connections to a manipulative inscription."
Edited to correctly add Ygg.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer taps out his own Bone Pipe then returns it to its Bone Wand shape, then he fishes out one of the Mandalay Stones, the Red one, and places in against the butt-end of the Wand. The butt-end of the Wand reshapes into a tiny skeletal hand to hold the Stone.
Realmer then takes the pipe offered by Jurt, lights it with a Cantrip and inhales deeply. He holds it for Jurt's entire speech then finally exhales the multicolored smoke. The he flicks his Wand in the air, as though he is wracking someones knuckles and smiles at the fiery glow upon the Wand... then he begins idly tracing symbols in the air, like a kid with a burning stick pulled from a fire.
"More manipulative than the Pattern? Or the Logrus? I find that hard to believe considering what both of those Sentient Inscriptions have done to people, places and Reality itself thus far in the Known History of the Multiverse. I do not doubt that the Pattern and Logrus took the creation of the Mark of Mandalay and the creation of the Jeweled Road as an aggressive move, to be certain."
"And, as is always the case with Artifacts of great power, especially those based upon a Great Power, caution in their use is certainly warranted. But thank you for your cautionary advice; it's always prudent to 'Read the Warning Labels before Use'."
"Though, I already have some experience with this type of Power Artifact; I'm sure you saw the Green Jewel of Judgment I bear. When Dworkin gave me the Green Jewel... loaned me the Green Jewel...? GAVE me the Green Jewel, to guard and use wisely, he schooled me in its Powers and usage and of course, warned me of its Side Effects and certain 'attentions' I might draw due to being Attuned to it and possessing it. I am sure the Pattern of Amber would love to absorb the Ghost Realms of Ambir and its Pattern to make itself and its Realms stronger, especially since Ambir's Realms are all but empty of any life... but I will do all I can to prevent that from happening... I've grown rather fond of that Ghost Realm." Realmer waves his fiery glowing Bone Wand dismissively in the air.
"So what of you, Jurt. What powerful little trinkets would you like to show-off? I am certain you have something other than your Mandalay Stones."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Well, these days I try and keep a low profile. It took a lot of being chewed and spit out to make me reconsider my priorities.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt Pulls out a box and opens it to pull out a pair of short thin fighting knives. They are carved from bone
"These are Pit Knives. Made from the bones of Abyssal demons. One has to defeat a certain breed of big boned creature in the depths of the abyss, then sacrifice them to the Serpent. Then one carves them in a specific manner. While these are not exactly rare they are double tough to come by and not every Lord of Chaos is taught to get them when they are taught to assay the Logrus. . They will rip through nearly any armor but tears the hell out of abyssal demons. They are extremely potent at harming creatures of Chaos leaving wounds that are extraordinarily hard to heal from taking 10 times the normal healing times or magics. Pretty wicked on undead too. They detect as non-magic, and once attuned can not be stolen. I can leave these in Sawall Way and call them to my hand in a fraction of a second all the way to the pattern room in the dungeons of amber. To non-chaosian creatures they are little more then wickedly sharp bone knives.. But to Chaosian creatures they are deadly. And, Realmer, bear in mind, the blood of Barimen is the blood of Chaos"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Mind you, i try not to get in any knife fights around Amber. People frown on poison knives like these. Also I'm sort of glad i had not finished these while i was still mad at Merlin.. Might have come out badly. I've found violence is too risky,"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He uncoils a whip from around his waist where it had rested hidden from sight.
"This is my weapon of Choice. Flexible, takes an expert to work. And I'm an expert. This will rip flesh and cradle glass. Its half sentient and its been through the Logrus. Each of the sons of Sawall have one. Mine is named Frakaol. Merlin's was named Frakir. They are loyal and helpful. It can find me if lost."

*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks over the weapons as Jurt presents them. He even brought up the Pattern Lens to look at them more closely.
"Very nice, indeed. And I am well aware that the House of Barimen IS a House of Chaos and that we all have the Blood of Chaos running through us. Grandfather made sure I never forgot that little piece of family information. Especially since I am a full Shape Shifter; unlike the 'Cousins' that only have a limited form of Shape Shifting. And I have considered assaying the Logrus, should the opportunity arise. Again, very impressive weapons. I never studied the use of weapons much, hardly at all to be honest... but I do know how to use a few types and I do possess one weapon... something I made myself. After all, if you want something done right; do it yourself."
Realmer pulls out the Bone Wand holding the Red Mandalay Stone and changes it into its Scrimshawed Bone Staff form; the red stone now housed in the left eye socket of the skull atop the staff. He lets the Staff fall from his grasp, but before it hits the floor it Shifts into a full sized Displacer Beast that appears to be Undead due to its decaying flesh and bones showing through in a few places... though Jurt can tell it is not 'truly' an undead creature.
"Hex; my Staff of Necro-Beasts, as I like to call it. Capable of taking the form of any weapon, item or any small to large-ish creature, though it always looks undead; I like to keep up my dark and sinister appearance. Capable of taking on the many, if on all, of the abilities of the creature it mimics. Capable of dealing extreme damage and penetrating most armors, even highly magicked ones. Extremely fast and combat capable. Fully sentient and psychically connected to me. Capable of returning to me via Trump image implanted within. Capable of Racking and Using Spells and also equipped with Power Words. Conjured from my own blood, forged on an 'altar' in the Pattern Room in the Dungeon of Castle Amber, infused with the Power of the Pattern through the use of my Shade Jewel of Judgment and by walking the Pattern with it during and after its creation. Quenched in the Waters of the Pond in the Pattern Room. As I said; if you want something done right; do it yourself."
Realmer takes another puff off the pipe that Jurt passed him and the summons Hex back to his hand and back into the form of a Bone Wand.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
This is exactly what the Bone Wand looks like, minus the Stone.

*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
This is more or less what the Scrimshawed Bone Staff looks like. No glowing eyes, just empty eye sockets and the shaft is more detailed with carvings running its entire length.


*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Considering the Logrus? That's like thinking of having one's frontal lobe removed. There is a short cut you know, yes"?
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer laughs and says, "I did say considering ... in fact I am considering many things... But that does not mean I am actually going to undertake them. I have made too many mistakes by moving too quickly to grab for power in the past and it cost me. I have paid my dues for those mistakes. I intend not to make them again. And to which shortcut are you referring?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"The Woven Logrus. There are a number around. They need substantially less training. If you are a talented shapechanger it mostly takes nerve and quick thinking to assay, depending which you find. I know of 3 off hand i can reach easily"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Ah yes, the Woven Logrus. I have heard of them. A possibility worth considering. Certainly safer than the Logrus itself. I am always considering adding new power sources to my repertoire. Recently assayed the Spiral of the Four Winds... the Squiggle of Adagalasck. I was considering the Mal at Reiss prior to being assigned as the Ambassador to Adagalasck, but it seems the Spiral is of similar use... perhaps better."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Speaking of things on the Chaos end of the Multiverse... I have been considering the benefits of the Dufiro. What is your opinion on them and their benefits... and drawbacks?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt smiles..."ah.. the Dufirosim...Lovely people. Depends what you want to accomplish. I have several myself but they are at the club. Both bound and bonded pacts. They are a bargaining people. Gain power for their service. Talents across the board. t They work the hell out of the Chaos end of the universe yet they have Greater Dufiro, the Ava Dufirosim, who are Law Dufiro that would bargain softly for a time in Amber. I think in time he eastern realms like Amber will find much to interest them in bargaining with them. There is the pesky thing about slavery but that's a judgment call all around. I can introduce you to several once we get back to town"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, if it is an unforced agreement, then I personally would not consider it slavery. I mean, if the Dufiro is willing and a mutually beneficial agreement is reached, then I don't see how it could be considered slavery. But that is just my view point and opinion. And I would relish that introduction; thank you again."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Sure. I wouldn't bind a dufiro against its will. makes the item its in have a flaw. But others do. Its quiet common really. A binding ritual is different if its mutual or if its forced. Many in chaos treat them as little more then freeform power sources to be devoured at will. i come from an unpleasant land"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Would it be unwise to bind a Dufiro to an Item that already possess a sentience? I was thinking about my Staff, specifically, but also generally I am curious."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"No, some items have many bound to it. Its a matter of comparative powers and personalities. You wouldn't want to bind a fire and water elemental together. They fight.. In many ways though the dufiro like multiple bindings. Less lonely for them over the years"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I see. So it's a matter of power and personality compatibility... interesting. Can they be bound to living creatures? I don't mean like my Staff, but more like my Familiar, or Pet... or even myself.
Is that possible? Or advisable?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Again, its a matter of bargining. Finding a Dufiro that's compatible. Many are bound to animals and even sentient. Various Dufiro of Guard are often bound to living things. Its all in the bargin...
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"All good to know, thank you again. If I may pose another question? I know I have been asking a lot of them and it may be your turn... if we are playing by 'Family Rules'. But I am curious what you know about some of the Lesser Initiations, lesser than Pattern and Logrus that is, and how they react when the Greater Initiation is taken again... specifically, what may happen to my Spiral Imprint when I walk the Pattern again. I know you are no expert in Pattern and this question might be better asked of Arloxedra, but as you may know, he and I are not on the best of terms. I'm sure I could also ask any of the Elders, especially those of Arcane minds... but I really don't like pestering them with my questions; which I am sure they find a bit bothersome and basic. I quite often feel like a very young child speaking to the condescending adults when around the Elders. Well, not all of them and not always. I am pretty sure I know what will happen, but I am curious to hear your take on it and if you know any secrets that might be of use to me."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.''' 'The "Family Game" always struck me as pretty adversarial. I played it in chaos and all i got was used, screwed and spit out. I lost ears and toes and...things... depending on stuff i learned in the family game. And i damn near got killed several times trying to get good juice for the squeeze. I hooked up with one of Merlin's ex girlfriends hoping to get good juice on Merlin to trade. Worked out poorly. "
He repacks his pipe.
"Your history is in Low Order Magic. I might like to learn some of it in time. It has its uses but for me it was High Order Sorcery or nothing. By lesser initiations i assume you mean Squiggles, not Low Order Initiations?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt stops, as if listening, withdraws his Trump deck and shuffles through it..
"Hmmm New Card....Henry, Son of Fiona and MANDOR?!?!?!?!?!?!?!? What the galloping fuck!??!?!?!!!!!!"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Correct. Squiggles." Realmer responds then, "What? Who?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt lays the trump before you
"Henry, a son of Fiona and Mandor.. damn.. damn... a crown prince for the crown prince of Sawall....."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Now how interesting is that. And how interesting the timing... just before King Random's trip to Mandalay... perhaps not connected, but perhaps..." Realmer leaves it hanging.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt pours another pitcher of brews.
"The thing is...I can't imagine Mandor giving up the powers of a sanctified marriage under the Serpent and the powers the child would have from it. Having a illegitimate child is alright but they lose out on a lot of things. Inheritance, prestige, status in the line of succession. Especially after the crap Mother went through getting Merlin declared legitimate during Patternfall. And if Mandor, heir of Sawall had married Princess Fiona for fucks sake the towers of Theldane would be ringing. She was a darling of Chaos when she was begging for power to unseat Oberon...Now.."
Drinking a full tankard, "And if they Married in a unicorn rite they might have kept it quiet but i don't see how. Chaos would have been screaming bloody red war over it. They would be banishing him, they might still... That would make either Despil or myself heir to Sawall... This kid is in for a serious thumping east and west. Crap...i hate this.. but i may have to call Despil, or Mandor....Maybe,...maybe I should visit Sawall Way..."
He looks thoughtful, sipping his beer.
Looking up, "So, Realmer, you are, technically, foot loose and fancy free at the moment, aren't you?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Wellllll...." Realmer draws out the word while reviewing in his mind his most recent conversation with the King of Amber and whether or not going to the Courts of Chaos would contradict anything the King requested. "Random DID ask me to keep you occupied and out of trouble... while at Vulsar Base..." he pauses with a devious smile on his face. "I could certainly keep you occupied in the Courts of Chaos... and as far as keeping you out of trouble... well, you're not at Vulsar Base so I think I can be cleared of that duty... and Random did say to enjoy a short vacation..."
He drains the glass Jurt poured for him and then takes a huge lungful of smoke of the sparkling herb mixture in the pipe then exhales and says through the multicolored smoke "So yes, I guess my 'vacation' begins now and I am 'footloose and fancy free'. I would love to visit the Courts and your family." Realmer's grin is wide. "Lead on, my good man, lead on."
But then he adds quickly, "Should I change my appearance? An I dressed appropriately? Will this be something formal? Will my Chaos Form be needed to serve proper Etiquette?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"OK... I need to make a few stops, nothing major.. I should make a few calls to put off some business. Lets plan for the morning. 9 hours here.. hmmm should be... a blue turning in Chaos.. We can Trump to Zilla, light a few candles, check the Banns... But.. going into battle is easier then going home...
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"You are going to need local talent as a defender.. We can arrange that at Zilla."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, good idea. The Fane of Zilla... always wanted to see if there was a niche devoted to me. Guess I'll find out soon. I wonder if I should check in with Random... to check in on Kevin... I know the time flow here is faster than Amber, but the time flow of Vulsar is even faster than that... now that I think about it... it's odd that Random, or anybody for that matter, has not contacted me... or you."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
(I could run Jasra's dinner but it would take hours...Lets list it under, "Did Jasra say anything about----")
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
(good idea.)