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

====<big>Treasures and a Shard of Paragon</big>====


*'''Michael James Watson'''
In a land with an extended timeline a dozen trump calls in Amber might all feel like they arrive at once. After a day in shadow a massive barrage of Trumps calls slam into Realmer. His trump skill lets him feel them coming in on Pattern and Adagalasck inscription frequencies. They ping on him in a group, then filter off to ping one at a time after a couple days.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
After Realmer is well rested and has re-hung his cast spells, including those hung in his Artifacts and Familiar, he then begins 'playing' with the Mandalay Stones to become more familiar with them. He does this while he awaits the Trumps calls that are sure to come. Realmer speculates with Bob as to who called and who will be the first to call next.
"So Bob, I know you're always tuned in to any Trump Contacts I make or receive... so, have you any idea who tried to contact me? I could tell that most were Amber based Trumps, but at least one was of Adagalasck. Speculate with me while we wait."
[Bob has Extraordinary Psychic Sense and Powered by Trump]
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Bob- "The number of trump artists in Adagalasck is small, but Nina and Emilie might have made trumps for Julian, Caine and Trualta reasonably. Beyond them its hard to say. As for Amber trumps, i feel a sense some contacts are weak, others strong. The strong ones might me sorcerers or notable lords. The weak ones might be any family member. I hear you blocking them. In time you will have to answer one. I suggest you reason who you want to speak to concerning the trip west and make the call yourself.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
bob-"I also suspect considering the time, Jurt may be among the calls.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer fiddles with the Stones dexterously (think Goblin King and the crystal balls from Labyrinth) while he considers for a few minutes who he really needs and wants to speak to... he reasons that King Random should be the first and draws out his Trump with one hand while still fiddling with the Stones in the other. He concentrates on the Trump an the Stones at the same time, to test their Trump Boosting Effect.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Carly, Random's Trump secretary answers. "Lord Relmopator, his majesty is currently in the Library and told me to relay you to him if you should call. I'll put you through."
Moments later Random appears on the card. He puts up a finger for one minutes. Then "Ok, before you say a word, come across. I'm in the library and we won't be disturbed. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer steps through into the Library, bringing Bob with him, still fiddling with the Stones.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Waiting in the library are Random, Arlo and Bleys. They are looking over maps as well as several law books.
Ran-"Well, i got quite a nasty note an hour ago from the Ambassador of Chaos. Perhaps you would like to tell me why A Lord of Chaos is demanding the extradition of his son, who is in self exile and refusing my trump calls., and my cousin who was refusing my trump calls till a few moments ago? Any ideas? Theories? Recipes?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer debates playing dumb, but decides better of and and comes clean... mostly.
"Majesty, in the matter of the Lord of Chaos' son, I am sure you are referring to Jurt and the reason is because Jurt raided a closet in Sawall Ways full of trinkets and heirlooms, and I am not entirely sure all of the contents were his. And since I was with Jurt at the time of his visit to Sawall Ways, I am sure the Lord of Chaos in question assumes I am guilty as well; even if by simple association. And I was not actively blocking your contacts, Majesty; I was in a fast time Shadow resting up from my jaunt to the Fane of Zilla and Sawall Ways. I only woke and refreshed a few hours ago, my time. You were the first I contacted."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Arlo and Bleys look at each other, eventually Arlo shrugs.
Arlo-"Was one of them a large blue stone... like a heart crystallized in sapphire? "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I do believe I did see such a bauble in the closet, but as to whether Jurt took it or not, I am unsure. Once I realized what Jurt was about, I decided it best that I not be directly involved, so I turned a blind eye to what exactly he was taking and instead watched the hallway until we hastily departed via one of his Trumps, taking us to somewhere in the Black Zone, then a Trump taking us to Thin Whips, where we parted. I went to a personal Shadow to rest up, I have no idea what became of Jurt after that."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random looks at Bleys-"Well, you know the place. Do we raid it? Think Jurt would answer a trump long enough for you to zorch him?"
Bleys-"While i'm certain i could zap him hard over Trump i doubt he is answering. As for raiding Thin Whip's Place...that's unlikely to get the jewel.. Realmer, he took blades. 38 of them. A matched pair of long curved war blades, 12 wide bladed broad swords with a flat edged tip. 24 thin long swords. Did you see him take those? and don't tell me you were just the look out. We are 50/50 to turning Jurt over to them and about 20/80 turning you over to them. Was anyone else present?"
Arlo-"oh be real. We are not turning Realmer over to them no matter what they say and telling him that's on the table is just foolish. If Jurt escapes Amber we can claim ignorance of his location. But Random, if he got what they say he got, and Realmer can confirm it, i repeat my suggestion that we have Realmer bring Jurt in and we swear him to fealty. Tell Chaos we will be there soon enough and will discuss it in person."
Random frowns, "With a million military advisors and a deck of family members. That looks like a war party to me."  
Bleys, "Not at all. they know our plan. Its just a good bargaining position in case they get pissy. Besides, its not the Courts of Chaos we would be fighting. Its House Sawall. And frankly, we have Sawall's crown prince's son downstairs as a ...guest. We just need to know what the deal is with what Jurt took. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer first looks to Arlo and gives him a nod of thanks, then he turns to Bleys and replies.
"Yes, I did see many blades; the first two he grabbed was a matched set of katanas which he slipped under his belt. Then next he began pitching tomes from a bookcase in his open bags... it was about then I decided it best not to pilfer from a House of Chaos nor to see what was being pilfered or rightfully taken by a member of said House... Jurt did have a 'key' to the closet, he did not force his way in."
Realmer pauses a moment before continuing.
"As for bringing Jurt in; I do not want to bring him into an ambush nor bring him in if he does not wish to. But... he did mention contacting you, Majesty, and something about possibly accepting your offer. And as far as raiding Thin Whips... I am sure neither he nor his treasures are there; since I was the last to see him, and he knows I would be questioned about his whereabouts, I'm confident he has already left the area."
"And Lord Henry is here? In Amber? Odd. That is what spawned Jurt's trip to the Courts and my accompanying him; he saw Henry's Trump in the King Random Deck and suddenly felt the need to visit home and talk to family members."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Bleys snorts, "I bet he did. Quite a inquisitive fellow. I had to toss him up against a wall just this morning. Training of course, in magical arts. Mandor and Fiona didn't just hide him from Amber but from Chaos. They were quite serious even going so far as to be married by Ygg, to establish a legitimate marriage, certainly for magical purposes. He was raised in Antheris with its 3 to 1 time ratio. Id say Henry is about 22... real years.. So an egg. And whats more Elyene, Flora's daughter, has known about him since birth. So there was a lot of deception going on."
Arlo nod, "A son of the Heir of Sawall would have to have been anointed in chaos a lot of times by now and im sure it wasn't done once. He holds a woven Logrus... "
Ran-"Well, Realmer, I'm sure you are right about him moving the new toys.. What do you say about going and bringing him around. Nothing formal. I'll be here in the library.. It needs to be now. Trump him or visit him.. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, Majesty. But I do not know where he is or where he might be hiding. And I am fairly confident he will not answer any Pattern or Logrus based Trump calls...."
Realmer trails off and remains silent for a moment, then smiles.
"But... I do know a Trump discipline involving the Spiral of the Four Winds that might work. Give me a bit of time and privacy to try it. If you will all excuse me."
Realmer moves to his favorite niche in the Library, the one Arlo dislikes the most and rarely visits. He pulls out a specially prepared glass globe and begins channeling his Squiggle Power and his Trump Power into the globe to produce a 3D image of Jurt. Once this is accomplished Realmer will attempt contact, using the Mandalay Stones to boost his Psyche and the Trump Transmission itself, if needed.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The image falters a bit but makes contact.. Jurt's image solidifies looking through his raised Logrus image. It shimmers bright with a unusual blue tinge..
"Realmer! An interesting power aspect... I've not see its like.. Adagalasck? It was the only imprint you had i was unfamiliar with. Are you on the lamb? I an pull you through if you like. I'm sort of in the middle of something but you are welcome to observe"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, it is based on the Spiral of the Four Winds. I figured you wouldn't respond to any Pattern or Logrus based Trump calls so I thought I would try something completely different. I figured either you knew about my Imprint and would recognize the Contact or would find the Imprint just unusual enough to answer; either way, I figured I would get through. And no, I am not on the run. I am in the Library of Castle Amber and King Random has requested you come here to visit with him; just a little informal meeting... apparently your father has already contacted him and is asking that the King of Amber extradite us both to the Courts. Random questioned me about what happened; I told him most of it... making you out as the villain, as you suggested, and kept myself as innocent as possible. Are you willing to come through to me? Other than myself and Random, only Bleys and Arloxedra are present. They are all in another part of the Library presently... I am currently alone in a little used niche."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Bleys and Arlo...double tough. Ok... Look. tell them ill talk to them but i need to talk to your her at my place first. This Trump is odd. Can you transport with it? If so, come to me. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, I can transport through it. Give me a moment."
Realmer turns away from the glass globe a bit, but not enough to break contact. He raises his voice enough that Random and group will hear him.
"Majesty, I have contacted Jurt and he is willing to talk to you, but requests my counsel first and that I go to him now. I will be contacting you as soon as I can, and hopefully, and most likely, Lord Jurt will be accompanying me... willingly."
Realmer smiles a wicked smile and looks back to Jurt and winks at him. Realmer waits a few moments for a reply, if any comes, but does not wait long.
Realmer gestures silently to Bob for him to remain behind, listen and wait, then transports to Jurt.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
ran-"Alright. But make it clear I'm holding to coming here. I won't wait long. "
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Arriving in a flat stone plain under a green sky. He has several folding tables and several of the chests you saw him toss in the bags. Some tables have tomes on them. Others have chests that look like they were unpacked and the tables hear them have a wide variety of boxes and tomes. His sorting seems to be by container. The swords are on another table, 12 each. Looking around the otherwise empty plain you see the blue stone sitting about a hundred yards away.. He has both katanas in his belt.
Jurt _"So..Gramble already complained to Random? How much trouble are we in?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well.... Arloxedra came to my defense and said I would not be extradited, so I think I'm in little to no trouble."
Realmer looks over the things spread out on the tables and then looks over to the sapphire then back to Jurt.
"How much trouble you're in, in Amber, will depend upon exactly what you acquired, what you intend to do with it and who you intend to share it with, and how soon you are willing to meet with King Random. He did want me to tell you that he is currently waiting on you and will not wait long... I sure hope this is a fast-time shadow compared to Amber."
"I told him I saw the katanas you bear and that you bear them, I told him I saw you piling tomes into the bags... and that I saw THAT blue stone but was not sure if you had taken it. I tried to be vague but not too vague."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
jurt nods finishing a drink and stepping over to the swords. "These are treasures of House Sawall. Ancient, everyone. Tomes of rare Dufiro. Histories of secret learnings. Blueprints for the creation of Sawall Way.. Abyssal stones, focuses.. odd weapons.. The swords.. these 24 are called Defender blades. They jump up and defend you if you are attacked by someone with weapons. These 12 at Excavation Blade, grisly weapons; dig a hole with them and you can carve a grave in a singe swipe, hit someone in the chest and nothing remains above the nipples. "
He picks up a defender and an excavation blade, setting them on the table with the bottles and the folding chairs.  
"These are your cut. The rest are a bit hard to describe and i suspect ill be giving them back anyway.. The Tomes, ill keep those till Despil asks for them, the stodgy prig. "
Patting the blades on his belt. "I will only give to Mandor. And he knows if he takes them he is the ruler of Sawall and he can send Gramble off to his final reward. The grumpy old prick ha been dying for centuries anyway. "  
He steps out to from the tables.  
"But that, " pointing at the stone, "is the thing they are pissed about. And ill use it now to attune these blades, and a few of the trinkets on my person to myself. Afterwards, ill decide if they can have it back. Once im done, call Arlo and we'll go talk to them, ok?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks over the horde of treasures again then looks over 'his cut' then says, "I'm not sure King Random will let me keep any of this, but I do appreciate the offer. And instead of Arloxedra, I have Bob waiting for my call; I left him behind to eavesdrop and bring us back... or just me if circumstances dictate. So do what you must, but do it quickly, by Amber's time that is, I really don't want an angry call from Random... in fact, I would rather be on the King's good side as I need some permissions from him to do what I want to do before leaving on his Long Walk... if I'm still going, that is."  
Realmer chuckles and adds, "It seems your reputation for trouble is accurate and earned. I look forward to more 'troublesome times' with you."  
Realmer smiles at Jurt, and though he never said the word itself, it was as though he ended his last sentence with the word 'friend'.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jrt laughs walking toward the Blue Stone. "You don't really have a choice on those sword. I passed them to you. Leave them here if you like and ill store them away but they will come when you call them even from that vault we stole them from. Now, the stone is the thing. A Great House in Chaos is a "great" house if it has one of those stones. If it became public knowledge it was stolen and missing they would be ousted from a dozen councils and removed from the order of succession in Chaos. Despite stealing all that other stuff if rumor this stone was missing from Sawall Way Gramble would have to swear he gave the stone into my keeping rather then admit i niced it. And if you crossed the Abyss with it in your hand, someone from Theldane would show up to ask you what the name of your house is and would you like the old Sawall's spots on royal councils. With that stone you could reclaim Bariman Way. interesting,eh?"  
Waving a hand and speaking as he walks.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer takes the two swords in question and puts each in an outer side pocket of his Robe of Many Deep Pockets then looks to the bottles sitting on the same table as the swords.  
"Well, were I interested in that much power, responsibility and headache, I would snatch the stone now and head to the Courts of Chaos... but that is not my ambition. Perhaps that is why King Random wishes to speak with you so badly and as soon as possible... that stone was the first thing I was asked about. Oh, and the bottles? Are they a part of my cut, and if so, what are they... specifically?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt-"Oh those bottles? Red Tequila. 175 proof. Stuff will kill stomach bacteria. Take one. They are endlessly refilling. The secret of my house tequila is mixing that stuff with cream soda and letting it go flat. "
Getting to the stone he waves his hand finally. Light emits from the stone. It spreads out across the plain coming within 10 yards of Realmer and finishing as a writhing moving image radiating confusion, power, lust and arrogance.  
"Behold, The Logrus of Chaos. This shadow of it is the Blue Stone of Sawall. Watch"  
His shape shifts rapidly as he starts assaying it.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer watches with interest... great interest. He is so intent on studying Jurt that his own body might begin Shape Shifting as Jurt's does, so intent is Realmer's study of Jurt's Assaying of a Logrus that he is unaware of it.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt shifts as regions around him grow cold and hot. Unlike the the pattern with it rainbow sparkles the Logrus looks like its wrestling with its walker. Fighting them, screwing them. Jurt shifts to energy and demon shapes, humans able to survive in vacuum.. The area outside the logrus is unaffected by the quick changes in environments in the Logrus as it battles with Jurt. Lights show around and above him, Tendril reach out and around looking as if they are seeking something to use against Jurt.. One reaches out coming closer to Realmer as he watches, urging him to run and jump in the middle of the gaping sea of its body the Logrus.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
writhing tendrils of power, light and madness writhe wildly rising to seem a mad square of light like living bloody spaghetti
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer immediately resists the urge to enter the Logrus, fearing for the one still negotiating it; perhaps a reflex from the Pattern, perhaps some other self preservation instinct. Part of him wants to... part of him does not. He resists, his will resolute, for now... he knows he would need to know more first... he resists.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Once he resists the temptation to leap fades away.. Time passes as the spectacle continues. Visions of monsters and people walking in the light can just be seen.. In time the lights slow and seem to purr...till Jurt steps to the side and exist the lights.. followed almost immediately from the light being sucked jumanji style into the center till it leaves a single large blue stone..
Jurt walks out and picks it up, tossing it up and down one handed as we walks over, looking like a canary eating cat.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Wow! That was spectacular. thank you for allowing me to view it."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He sets the stone down near you, picking up a bottle and chugging.
"Its not as easy as it looks...."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"It didn't look easy at all."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Now these blades will work for me, till Mandor asks me for them." Patting the katanas.
He waves his hands and the boxes start packing... extra boxes fill with tomes and swords.
Taking a big chug from the bottle, and pulling out 3 more.
"Did you grab one of those?" Pointing at the stone Red tequila bottles
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Nope, but I'd like to... perhaps two of them? One for myself and one to trade with someone in the future... not sure who yet, but I will know when the time is right."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Take One. They are rare enough. I'm going to see if giving a few to Random, Arlo and Bleys will keep them from throwing me in the dungeons. Ok... Open the door"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer takes one bottle and slips it inside one of the many pockets of his Robe. He pulls out his Trump Deck and pulls from the bottom of the Deck a Trump of Bob the Beholder that Realmer made himself. He focuses and waits for contact.
Realmer's first question to Bob upon contact: "How long have I been gone?"
Realmer's next question to Bob: "What did you hear while I was gone?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
 Bob--"You've only been gone a couple minutes.. So far though three other people have arrived. And Random told me if i told you who he might put me in a cell of my own"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, I have been out-foxed... I should have seen it coming." Realmer replies to Bob then tells Jurt "Three more have arrived and under threat of imprisonment by Random, my Familiar cannot tell me who. Guess we are both in for a surprise. Bob, bring us both through."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt frowns...."I see... well, this is what they get."
Shimmering, the Logrus rises in front of him. He steps into it , reaching his arms into tendrils. Realmer sees him loading spells with a speed that is incredible, as if he is offloading spells onto the frame. He tosses up a defender blade that hovers above him. He draws a Excavation Blade.  The Logrus calms to be a slightly visible series of lines surrounding him.  "Lets go. He steps up to follow you through.."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Entering the room the library is open and well lit, the tables moved away. Bleys and Arlo stand with Random. Bleys and Arlo instantly raise the sigil of the pattern. Across the room is Benedict with a pattern blade in his hand. On the top of the close stack is is a dark haired women looking down a devastating looking sniper rifle glowing runes. Besides Random is Viale
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt-”Oh... fuck me..."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer maintains a calm mind and a calm visage. He smiles to the King and bows.
"King Random, Lord Jurt, as you asked. Looks at little less informal than before, Majesty. And a bit more like an ambush."  Realmer sighs but says no more and does not move away from Jurt's side, but will not follow Jurt if he moves or flees.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt looks at the red dot on his chest, looking up at the sniper. "Hello Doria... Hows your sister?"
Doria, "Desri is fine now. Spoken to Maylon recently?"  Jurt snickers...  Random..."Jurt.. you asked to swear fealty once and gain the protection of the Kingdom of Amber. Are you ready to swear fealty and submit an article of submission?"  Jurt-"Not at gun point. Get my great aunt psychopath off the bookcase and we can talk."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Doria slides down the case, three stories high. Realmer has never met her. Her reputation is fierce. She cradles the sniper rifle. "Ah, poor Jurt....Scared of a little silver at supersonic speeds?"
Jurt looks at Realmer.. wondering...."King random... What are your terms?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random walks forward, looks to Ben who sheathes his sword. Arlo drops his sigil.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Ran-"Jurt, I can't do anything till you give back the blue stone to Sawall. Despil is at Sea View Gardens... Give the stone to Realmer. He will take it to Sea View nd deliver it to Despil. If you refuse.. well, ill burn thin whip's to the ground and you can run till they catch you. Sorry... But they told me what the stone is and i can't protect you"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt looks to Realmer
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks from face to face, reading the magnitude of the situation, which he was mostly aware of before he left the Library. Then he turns and looks to Jurt and speaks softly to his... friend.
"Jurt, I didn't know this was what you would be facing upon arrival. And I will go to great lengths to prove it, if you require.  
And as far as the Stone... well, you basically offered it to me, so you must not really want it for yourself, so why not give it back and accept King Random's offer. I saw the way your father and mother treated you; preferring the company of a stranger to their own son... so I know you don't really want to go back. And I think you grabbed everything you really wanted before you left."  
Realmer chuckles and smiles at Jurt with a twinkle in his eye.  
"What say you, Lord Jurt?"  
*'''Michael James Watson''' 
Jurt starts to speak but bleys steps up and interupts,  
Bley-"Before you pass it back to chaos, may we see it? Practitioners of the arts rarely see such wonders.. My oath none of us will try to see it but if it is what Despil says it is, I think we should get a look at it. What say you?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt shrugs, looks at Realmer
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer shrugs back to Jurt.
"Your call, Jurt. I have seen it and it IS impressive, so I know how the others feel about having this rare opportunity. But again, still your call. If you wish me to deliver it unseen to Despil, that is what I will do. If you care not, let them see it... but 'No Touchy'."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt nods. Pulling the blue jewel out. Arlo raises his sigil to observe. The stone emanates a sense of nervousness. Putting it on the ground he steps back ordering it to display in the confines of the room.
The Logrus manifests.  
Ben and Doria move together,, Random and Arlo stand together,
The Logrus fills the room but keeps its shape small. The lights fill the room. Library staff come at distances and watch.
Ran-"They showed me one after Patternfall, but i was too distracted.
Doria-"Its the enemy..."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Bleys leaps in.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt screams but it is too late.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer does everything he can to stop Bleys, if he can.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Realmer starts to move but is is too late. Bleys moves quickly, shifting shape with bold powers. The lights and might and powers surround him.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt steps over to random, blade raised. Ben steps forward, putting his katana against the blade of excavation.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random yells, "Jurt! Ill deal with Bleys! He acts against my will!! Lets calm the fuck down for shadow's sake!!!!'
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt looks around, Arlo is smiling..
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt screams in anger and angst and walks off grabbing Realmer by the shoulder and pulling
*'''Michael James Watson'''
jurt leans in to Realmer-"I have to swear to Random..But.. know i will never trust these Amberites"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
in the meantime, Bleys assays the Logrus as someone with the sigil only can.. finishing in the speed one familiar does.
Jurt whispers to Realmer, "damn..that was fast.. he has been through the Logrus more then i have...Fucking old lords..Realmer.. I must dare something.. consider going with me."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"You don't have to trust them, and you shouldn't. I don't trust them. I don't trust you. I don't trust anyone. But I did swear fealty to the King of Amber and now you will too, it seems. And yeah, that did seem fast. Wait.. what?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
jurt looks in, "Bleys had the inscription of the Logrus.. Fiona must, brand must. The old lords must have given it to them before they at the Oracle of Night"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
From around a long corridor, a figure walks out, shedding his deceptive cloaking, a man in red dressing gown watches Bleys assay the Logrus. He moves behind Random, whispering.  
Realmer sees him recognizing Brand.  
Bleys finishes the Logrus and steps aside.  
Jurt drops it immediately. Walking to the stone, picking it up. looking daggers at those in the room. a portrait of betrayal and a cornered tiger.  
He steps over and offers the stone to Realmer. Leaning in to whisper, "Take the stone and give it to Despil. Before then, cut yourself, bleed on the stone, and heal.. These fuckers need to fear us"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer takes the stone with his left hand and grips it tightly.  
"Enough! Ambush. Betrayal. Had I known this would happen I would have taken the Stone myself and gone to Theldane to return it. And now, in effect, I shall do so."  
Realmer heads towards the exit that will get him to Sea View Gardens the quickest.  
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Ran_"Bleys you drunk bastard what the hell!??? "  
Bleys.."Sue me, beat me, fine me.. That was the Stone of Sawall. You frigggin know the oracle foretold i'd walk it. I couldn't pass up the chance."  
Ben take Bleys to the dungeons. get someone to read him romance novels again..."  
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Ran looks at Doria nodding, she exits the library
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer exits the Library. As he does, he grabs the Stone with both hands and slips his hands beneath his sleeves to his the Stone from view and making it easier for him to drop the Stone in a pocket making it harder for someone to take... for a bit.  
Realmer does not rush, but does not take his time either. He does consider Jurt's request and its possible consequences... he slows a bit in his pace... but continues walking...
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Ben walks to Bleys and grips his arm hard. Bleys look to him. "Totally worth it"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
As Realmer continues on his way, he Shape Shifts a fingernail extra sharp and cuts his other hand with it, allowing the blood to fall upon the Stone... all hidden within the voluminous sleeves of his Robe. Once this is done the Power of the Ring of Satura will Regenerate his wound almost instantly. Realmer will then Shape Shift the fingernail back to normal and after the minor Attunement seems complete, he will shape shift his blood off the stone and his hands back into his body, hiding all evidence of what he has done... hopefully.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Cutting himself and blooding the stone causes a short burst.  
The stone emits light briefly, a type of acknowledgment .  
Arriving at the Sea view garden the normality of it is a bit of a shock. Diners go about their business in the evening light. Flora sees you and nods, pointing toward a table in the area you often use under normal circumstances. a waiter walks up and asks for your preferred meal.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Surf and Turf, I believe I heard it ordered once. Steak rare and all the trimmings. Thank you. And a stout ale to compliment them both."  Realmer nods to Flora and heads to the table she pointed out.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
As you sit despil appears as if he was waiting. He sits across from you. Realmer thinks he has rarely seen this chaosain of amber blood accept at family dinners where as ambassador to Amber he at at the head table
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Lord Despil, I don't believe we've ever formally or informally met. I am Lord Relmopator, please call me Realmer. I believe I have something that needs to be returned. Do you wish me to pass it under the table, inconspicuously?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil smiles, "No.. put it in my hand. anyone here capable of knowing what it is should have the chance to spread really good gossip."
He rests his hand on the table, flat"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles a bit wickedly and says, "Well played. I like your style."  
Reamler pulls out the Stone and casually hands it to Despil, as if he is returning a parcel of herbs (cup of sugar. hahaha).
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Taking the tone and palming it expertly.  
"You know that Jurt is the youngest child in a mighty house? be careful trusting him. I shall tell other i warned you if his madness envelops you."  
Sipping his tea, "tell jurt to contact me..He has kicked over a basket of snakes to be sure..I love my brother.. but he is his own worst enemy."

*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil waves to a waiter who brings a cup and refills Despils as well. The coffee smells strongly of hickory and bacon.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"A moment..." Taking out a card, he speaks in a guttural harsh language briefly,, looking like he is about to start arguing he puts the trump face down.
"I think the annoyance of parents is a universal constant..."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Now that Gramble knows i have the stone I'll have to take it there.. I don't trust moving it by trump unless im holding it. Can't just pass it over and be done with it. I dread a return to Chaos though...There... is likely to be ugly politics there now.. While Chaos wouldn't go to war with Amber over Jurt's actions they may blame me for them. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I'm not sure how they could possibly put the blame onto you, Lord Despil; you were not there and therefore could not control his actions. _I_ was there, and _I_ couldn't control his actions.... though I am also being blamed, at least in part. And thank you for your counsel on your brother; I know he is prone to trouble and short sighted decisions, and I barely know him. But for some reason, he feels like a brother to me. Not like Amberites and Chaosians use the word brother and all that goes with it... but more like when a normal person says someone is like a brother to them. It is strange, but there it is. I am sorry for my part in all of this. Please send my apologies to your Family and my regrets that I could not better influence their son."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Ill drop the 'Lord" if you will.. Hmm Blame..."
He withdraws a deck of trump and starts casually shuffling them with one handed passes, a move he hardly seems aware of. Realmer notes its a nervous habit Random shares. Over the years he has seen and probably spoken to Despil but not in detail. Despil was the first and only Ambassador to Amber Chaos ever sent.
"I get blamed for Jurt's actions a lot. Always have, in Chaos and here. He is my younger brother but he and I were born soon after Patternfall. Dara married Gramble on the rebound essentially. He had made his interest clear while she was young, in Chaos terms. But She herself had been born during the Black Road war as had her mother and grandmother. Hendrake was deep in the Party for War. And many in Chaos will blame them for eons for such a stunning defeat. Dara married Gramble as much to distance herself from the role she played in Hendrake's games. Jurt and I were the visible symbol of everything that caused Chaos's defeat. its why someone young as I was given this post. I was expendable. Jurt too. Neither of us was missed. We were mostly remember when blame was needed to be placed. Merlin left Chaos, swore to Random at Patternfall so while we saw him a lot growing up in Sawall Way, he got the blame from Jurt for every woe.. It made him bitter and combative. He got over that but it soured him on Chaos.. Not however, on gaining power. "
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"This foolishness now...I'm afraid he has burned the bridge letting him enter Chaos..and i am sure i will be blamed for that a well. If not by Swayvil, certainly by Gramble and Dara. The real shame is that i like it here. In many ways more then in Chaos.. My blood is not as purely Amberite as Merlin's, but I'm afraid i have gone native. I'd like you there when i speak to Jurt. I need to recover as much of the treasures of Sawall as possible."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
As Despil is talking, Realmer displays his own nervous fidget, which he is barely aware of; he has pulled out the Mandalay Stones and is rolling them around in his palm and over the backs of his knuckles in a slow idle fashion with his left hand. With his right he picks up the cup of coffee and takes a sip or two before returning the cup to the table. Realmer nods his head as he listens to Despil's words.
"Of course, Despil, I would certainly like to be there with you and him. Though I know you less well than I know Jurt, and I know Merlin not at all, it seems to me that the sons of Dara are not truly welcome in the House of Sawall; I saw how your mother and father treated Jurt first hand when we were there... I can only imagine how much worse it could have been had I not been there."
Realmer pauses and takes a sip of coffee before continuing; he is still idly playing with his Mandalay Stones.
"And as someone also raised outside of Amber, I must also admit to 'going native'; I like it here as well. Thus far, the benefits of living here and swearing fealty to the King have far outweighed any drawbacks. Including being called into Service for the Crown as an Ambassador, and all that went with it."
He smiles at Despil with the knowing smile of shared experiences and headaches.
"And if I may ask you a very personal and very bold, yet purely hypothetical, question; if you were in possession of some or all of the 'treasures of Sawall' and in a similar position as myself or Jurt... would you return them? All or in part? And what would be your rationale?"
Realmer takes a sip of coffee and watches Despil with interest over the brim of the cup; whether Despil answers the question or not, Realmer may still learn something by his reactions or body language... or since he is playing with the Mandalay Stones, his Psyche could be considerably boosted and he might pick up something without even trying.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I suppose in a way i am in that position. You know what i hold. I could devastate House Sawall by declaring it mine. I assume you know the quality of the item i hold. Either Gramble would have to declare me Lord or he would have to hunt me down.. But im not the warrior type. I've always been diplomatic. I learned that standing between Merlin and Jurt. "
Looking out over the ocean in the morning cool breeze..
"Look at that... The endless sea the poems of Amber call it because while you can travel that way and eventually come to the kingdoms of Acadia and the Far Isle, but you can also sail into shadow and sail waters for ever. Chaos is like that. I might find a view like this in the stuff of chaos and then it would fade back into the infinite black...There is...something... to the permanence of Order. Of course eldars in Chaos would say Amber is just a thing for a short time as well, if it would all disappear as easily a destroying the pattern.. Fragile.. Some part of me long to defend this place.."
Waving the waiter over and ordering peach mimosas..
"Saying that is treason...for me. Some of the old war gods talk of the wars destroying Paragon and Calmir and thought war with Amber would be the same.. Many of those were horrified that Chaos lost at Patternfall. They see that battle as a sign they have grown weak. They long for war...any war"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
'They are considering a war on Azcala and Random knows it. Part of the reason he is going to Chaos with an army. He hopes to convince the Great War Houses to ride against azcala. He may be able to. He is also consider how expensive hiring armies of Dufiro would be. I've researched it for him.."
pouring a mimosa when the pitcher arrives.
"There are some treasures of Sawall that Jurt took that must go back.. The Blue Stone for sure. There is another that must go back too but i think it might stay in Amber. You know the dungeons here, yes? There are vasty rooms or caverns in them? Below the Pattern level?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer chuckles and smiles when he responds to Despil.
"I am quite familiar with the lower levels of Castle Amber, I spend most of my time there when I am here; my laboratory and unofficial apartment are down there. And yes, there are vast rooms and caverns, though I have not visited them all."
Realmer takes a sip of coffee then asks a question.
"Which other treasures, besides the Stone, must be returned? It would be helpful to know so I can assist, if possible, in their return."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Well, Gramble really wants his swords. Its not critical but ownership of the House blades can be inferred to mean house leadership, not unlike the stone, though not as seriously. Gramble can call them stolen but he would lose face. And there is a rock.. about the size of a medium sized dog that no one but a few of us know he has that ought to go back. Its the rock i think I'll keep"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"But...it needs to be someplace secure. and the nearer the pattern the harder for Chaosians to find it. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, I don't recall seeing the 'rock' you speak of, but I certainly saw a lot of swords; three different sets, to be exact. Two matching katanas, a dozens matching blades and another two dozen matching blades; Jurt wears the matching katanas now... or he did when I left the Library."
Realmer sighs as he makes up his mind to tell Despil about 'his cut'.
"And I must begrudgingly admit that I possess two swords from the pilfered treasure; an Excavation Blade and a Defender Blade... he said it was my 'cut'. I was reluctant to accept them, but then Jurt told me what they could do and that since he had 'given them to me', that even if they were locked back in the vault they came from in Sawall Ways, I could still summon them to me, so I might as well take them... so I did. I will return them, as it is the proper thing to do. Jurt also gave me a bottle of Red Tequila, which I have no intention of returning; I should get something for my troubles."
Realmer smiles and chuckles then finishes his coffee.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil chuckles slightly.."The Red Tequila is his creation. Horrid stuff. The Defenders and Excavations are certainly important but they won't really be missed. Its the katanas that are the Sawall House blades. As for the rock, it wold have been in a well locked wide low case."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, he did toss several crates in his bags without looking through the contents... he may have what you are looking for and not realize it. And if it would help grease the wheels in any way for the Blades I possess to go back, I shall return them, but otherwise..."
Realmer leaves it hanging. If Despil wants the Blades to go back he can ask for them, if not, Realmer will keep them.
"Well, horrid or not, his tequila is powerful and that is what I like about it. That, and the fact that it is NOT wine. I detest wine."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"I doubt those are matters of concern. And Jurt took nothing without knowing what it was. We opened that vault many times once he found an old Lord's Medallion. Every lord has several, for himself and trusted servants. I am certain he took it.. I want to get the tomes to be sure. Or at least have access to them.. Truth be told the Stone and the House blades are the only thing they will make a sticnk about. the rest is a matter of family business"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well then, the Stone is already in your possession, the whereabouts of the Katanas is known and I am hopeful the two of us can convince him to return them as well. The rock you may have to bargain for, but I have a feeling he will make a deal of some sort. But we won't know until we talk to him."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Agreed. Then lets be about it. Can you find one of those big rooms first? Best place to talk. I'll ask Random if I can use it indefinitely. This opportunity is too good to pass up even if it is a bit of treason"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I already know of a perfect room; very spacious, high ceiling, arched entrance, but no door. It's located a couple of levels down from my laboratory... I was considering it for a second, or larger lab and apartment... before I went to Adagalasck. I will ask Random if is it still unused and available."
Realmer stands, waits for Despil to stand, then leads the way to the Library.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Actually, I'll send Bob to take a look" Realmer adds as they leave the table area.
Upon exiting the Library earlier, Bob would have Shifted to the form of a white raven, as most find a beholder unnerving at the least, and it is a standard practice when in civilized places. Bob nods his raven beak up and down then pops out with the rainbow hues of Trump travel.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random approves the room use and Jurt and Arlo seem to be talking when you arrive.
"So, Despil wants to talk, eh? I bet..Lets go"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer contacts Bob and has him Trump the three of them to his location, the room in question in the dungeons.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil looks around the room first, ignoring Jurt who stands looking annoyed.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt, "Well? Will it fit?"
Despil nods.."Yes. Its suitable. The plan was not to take anything else you know. Now they will know we have the rock. If you had left the other stuff it might have been centuries till they missed it. Now they will inventory everything down to the last silver. Give me the rock"
Jurt reaches into the bag and pulls out a flat chest.
They set it on the ground and open it. Inside is a chunk of raw rock with a flat bottom, Its covered with a cloth as they pull it out and set it in the middle of the room.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil and Jurt look at the rock, pulling off the cloth. Under it is a bright inscription the size of a paperback. It looks colorful and active, like a book sized piece of the pattern
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
The hairs on the back of Realmer's neck rise up as he brings up the Pattern and is ready to unleash Spells against Jurt and Despil if needed, the Mandalay Stones still in his left hand, but now clutched in his palm, his hand in a fist. Bob and all of Realmer's Artifacts can sense his apprehension and are also at the ready with Spells.
"What the FUCK is that!? And what in all Creation are you two co-conspirators doing!?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt, "Ah, Realmer... I would really recommend dropping your sigil right now.. This thing is sensitive"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Answer my questions and I will."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil stands, "We have spoken about this for years. But neither of us wanted to risk the reprisals if it was discovered we took this.. Frankly I'm shocked Jurt had the stones to grab what he did. "
Jurt sneer, "Everything was just there. It was a crime of oppertunity. They just pissed me off one too many times. I took the rest because they will let us keep this if we give back the stone. Im giving the Swords to Mandor and let him fight it out with Dad. Besides, there are a lot of cool things there.. Go ahead, Despil.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil starts focusing.
Jurt, "Realmer, that is a Shard of Paragon. One half of one percent of the inscription of the Primal Realm of Paragon"
https://wiki.rpg.net/index.php/Paragon

WIKI.RPG.NET
Paragon - RPGnet
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt pulls a rock the size of a golf ball from his pocket. It has the look of a common piece of granite. "I've had this rock for years. A gift from mother. It has a few nice small uses.. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"So that's a Shard of Paragon. I've read about them and Paragon. Interesting. So why the need to store it here? Have something to do with the proximity of the Pattern? And how do I get in on a piece of this power? Assuming it does not disrupt the Pattern and Amber; I don't want to be involved in starting another Black Road War."
Realmer still has not dropped his Sigil of the Pattern and still has hung spells at the tip of his mind.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt-"Really, drop the frame. It will drop anyway once Despil activates the stone and it will be messy. Yes, its proximity to the pattern. Once this is activated it will be detectable as activated by the powers. Not that they will care overly much. But trying to find it will be hard, even for them. The closer to a major inscription the more likely it won't be found. A searcher could be a in the throne room upstairs and not be able to detect it in the clutter of power emanations the pattern puts out"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I know I shouldn't trust either of you, but..." Realmer leaves it hanging then lowers the Sigil and sighs heavily.
"So, if you're not going to blow the place up or kill me, what can I do and how do I get a piece of this power for myself?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt, "We have been in this shard before. Its how we know what it i. And once we have opened it, we can assay the portion of the inscription that's here."  The shard glows.  Jurt takes his rock and shows it to you. Despil looks and nods.  Jurt drops the rock. It falls a foot then makes a right turn and moves fast to slam into the side of the shard. In second it seems to have been absorbed.  The room suddenly is filled with light..and it appears like a sunny day in the field of the stone. Like a pocket shadow of a vast open grassy field.  In the center is a stoa surrounding the glowing inscription. Despil and Jurt start walking to it.  Jurt,"Well? It looks the same. How far of prime is it?"  Despil- "No idea... But its assailable. " Looking to Realmer- "We have a piece of the Primal inscription, and the rock below it... It wants to be reassembled. Stones will go to it like a magnet. The part of the inscription we have here is showing us a shadow of the full inscription. Like the shadowy pattern in Tirna nog'ath, its substantial enough to walk. Once we assay it we can walk among a few thousand shadows it creates.. But only while a shard is open... If it closes, we, and everything in it is trapped till someone opens a shard again or this shard is brought near another shard that IS open.. There are a few open ones in Chaos. This was your plan Jurt, your tantrum, and your theft. You go first. If you don't die, either Realmer or I will go next."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Alright. If Jurt doesn't die, I'm in. I'm guessing it is similar to walking the Pattern?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil, "Yes, the experience is similar though my understanding is that its easier.. Less aggressive. Rough still but not like the pattern. It had a number of shadows but they all have a closer level of interaction and transportation. Also, once you assay it, as long as it remains open, one can transport to it from anywhere. This floated in a sea of Chaos once... "
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt steps up to the image and examine it. seeing it solid steeps out on it and begins walking. It ha a smokey effect at his feet, like walking and kicking up dust. There is a sense of shaking, a visual thing rather then a seismic one. The dust rises to Jurt's waist'
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Despil walks toward the edge of the inscription to watch closer.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Jurt slows and the time to take a step slows. he shakes his head as he walks. The sky darkens with rain cloud, breaks, deluges the room, then the sun comes out.. Jurt steps through the outer edge, tarts to look a bit puzzled
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer, being excited about acquiring new power, takes all that he saw Jurt go through in stride, like a tutorial before doing it himself. Realmer takes the look of puzzlement on Jurt's face as being surprised at how easy it was or how different from the Logrus it was... either way, Realmer is now primed and ready to assay the inscription.
"I guess I'm next" Realmer says as he steps up to the Inscription, as he would the Pattern, preparing his mind, then he sets foot upon it and begins walking its design.