Editing Volume Two: The Adask War Wizard (section)

====<big>King Random at Vulsar Base, More Consequences, a Key</big>====

*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random answers, "Well, me boyo, you were next on my call sheet! Good timing. I am at Vulsara. Star Fleet Command in fact. I don't suppose i can convince you to come through can I? Good time rate. Excellent alcohol. The King here is very accommodating." 
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Yes, Majesty, I can come to you, but only for a very short time and only because the time rate there is much faster than here. Hang on a second."  He turns away from the Card and looks to his companions.  "When Bob returns with Sadashi I want all of you to get to the Clan Halls on First Step as quickly as possible. Datarik, call a meeting of the Clan Lords and let them know I will be joining them shortly. Gangdis, I want you to meet with Xorit immediately and fill him in on the necessary details. Tesa, you're in command of our little cadre until I return. Once all the Clan Lords are assembled, if I have not arrived within one hour of their assemblage, I want you to contact me by Trump. The time rate on Vulsara is 60 to 1 compared to Amber, which makes it only a little faster than the time rate at First Step compared to Amber.. I shouldn't be long. Mother, you're coming with me to Vulsara."  Realmer slips his arm around his mother's waist then returns his attention to Random.  "Pull us through."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Arriving in a open area in front of the arches at the headquarters of Starfleet Command Realmer sees the usually busy compound lightly attended. A few people wandering around under the bright summer sun of Vulsara. Random is sitting on a stone bench in the main walkway.  "Well, aren't you the cock of the walk? Its rare that Dworkin is caught by surprise but it seems he was. I would like to see his face when he doesn't know everything. I guess there is a reason kings rarely hang around after their successors take the throne. "
He stops his prepared speech and looks at Satura...  "Aunt Satura...This is a surprise. To what do I owe the honor? Realmer? Is there some part of the story Arloxedra hasn't told me?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Ah, yes, I had forgotten you had not met my mother yet. King Random, allow me to introduce Lady Satura, my mother. Mother, this is your nephew King Random of Amber, the man I have sworn fealty to."  He turns back to Random. "My father has done something to her mind and in her current condition she isn't capable of taking care of herself. So that is why I brought her here with me. I know I am asking a lot, especially considering some of my recent actions, but I need her to be safe and well cared for while I am about my business. I would like to request Sanctuary for my mother in Amber until things in Adagalasck are stabilized."  "And since I don't know exactly what Arlo DID tell you, and there is a fair amount that happened before he arrived, and a small amount that happened after he left, perhaps I should brief you on all that has occurred since I last spoke with you in Amber."  And so he does. Making sure to cover every detail, remark, and supposition. Including his intentions to claim the South Wind.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He says, "Lets walk, Aunt Satura. I have been so looking forward to meeting you. I have heard so much about you. " Taking her arm in his.  She says ,"I would like that. Its been awhile since i had a nice walk."
Random says, "Would like to carry something pretty while we walk?"  "Is is heavy?"  "No, Aunty. But as we walk you should look at it a lot"  He slips the jewel of judgment into her hand, raising it so she gazes into it. He starts walking, leading her, looking to Realmer, "Go ahead and talk."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He walks across the plaza into the main lobby. Nods are given but not salutes. He leads through a series of long corridors. Listening.. He asks no questions till he gets to Dworkin summoning people.  "Arlo was annoyed to have his vacation interrupted. No rest for the wicked I suppose."  He listens about the assault on Julian, "Borlak has been edging Regor for centuries, raiding around the Regor Sway, driving Nicholas insane and frankly Regorians don't have to go far to get there in the best of times."  Patting Satura's hand, reaching and turning the Jewel, catching her eye again.  "When the Arden Stone came west the Regorian star force went to seize the stone and Vance led a battle band in a forced shadowshaving that about ruptured his fore-brain. Went in and they mixed it up.. While that was happening Borlak raided a shadow a little further out of his path of destruction. He has always been careful not raid shadows that allowed faster then light travel or energy weapons and the Regorians never could hit them. This time he led a huge swath of his force a little too close. The Regorians figured it out, begged Vance to retreat. Instead Vance took command of both forces. He, Agrom, Vander and Candle lead both fleets. He told them to grab rocks with grapplers and tractor beams and follow him. He circled around brought the ship to high warp, then shadow shaved across the realm Borlak was attacking and they dropped the rocks like letters from angry gods. Vance calls them Thor Weapons-orbital bombardment. Blasted about a quarter of the Flowing Horde attack force to road hash. The Regorians are pleased as hell with Vance and on good terms with us. Benedict thinks Borlak thinks Adagalasck and King Julian are just possessions of Amber so that's where he is taking the battle first. He knows he can't make it past Diaga Raks so he may pick off outliers. We are not technically at war with him yet. He sent a huge force into Mandalay never to be heard from again. Well, they can be seen at the Alodor Equestrian Region of the Dramaturge. Shows every Saturday. Friggin pacifist magic."  He listens to the politics of the Winds. "Sounds like you have some trouble in realm to sort out quickly. I don't want to get in the middle of it. If you need some CHAD troops, I know a guy."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Walking down a corridor of rooms with unlabeled doors. Reaching one he enters it. The room is filled with droids and people in red full body coverings. On one side Realmer sees Caine and Benedict looking into a glowing blue device casting shadows on their concerned faces.  Stepping beyond he sees the blue water of a Kolto Tank with a body floating in it.  Realmer recognizes Hiroaki.  Random says, "Now, tell about this"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer smiles briefly then turns to face Random.  “The short answer is: I killed an enemy of the Crown of Adagalasck that attempted to assassinate King Julian.”  He pauses to look at Hiroaki's body in the tank of fluids.
“After Aries and Dworkin left, Julian asked if anyone had a good reason why he shouldn't just slit Hiroaki's throat then and there. The silence was deafening. Arlo stepped up and offered to take care of it. Julian asked my advice. I gave Hiroaki the opportunity to end all hostilities against Amber, her Royal Family and her interests. He laughed in my face, said Julian would kneel before the Horde or die before it, that Normal was coming to claim his Birthright, then he said to kill him, his curse was ready. So, I did. And Julian and Arlo weren't the only ones ready and willing to kill Hiroaki; Tesa had a blade at the ready as did Gangdis... he admitted to me that I was only slightly quicker than he was.”  Realmer turns to look Random in the eyes.  “Sending assassins to kill a king, any king in any Realm, is an Act of War. Borlak knew what he was doing and the possible consequences. Hiroaki knew the consequences as well; he was an Enemy of the Crown and he died in a time of war. Were he not an Amberite we would not be having this conversation, or it would be have gone differently. And 'the corpse' certainly would not be in a Regeneration Tank.”  “And I was already considering CHAD troops... I also know a guy... several in fact.” He chuckles and smiles. “So, what more do you want to know? And will you grant my mother Sanctuary?”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Sanctuary? No. But my aunt can visit indefinitely. Heck, she is the only aunt I have. I am restoring her attunement to the jewel. That should kick the hell out of anything magical Hagalta did to her. She lost her attunement when Dworkin did a clean sweep early in my reign. That allowed Hagalta to do what he did. In the mean time ill put her in a more comfortable cell near Brand. Its beneath the pattern and that does wonders for magical illnesses."  "As for him, " Random points to Hiroaki. "I have fucking Brand in the dungeons. Do you think I didn't want to kill him? Eric had Corwin eyes burned out rather the killing him. Julian has a lot to learn if he thinks killing an amber is a good idea. But tell Julian that Hiroaki is my trading piece now. For your information, Arlo had no intention of killing him. He has a trump card that delivers one unwillingly to the cell Brand is in."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Tesa...is a whole different problem for you and I but lets table that till Borlak crosses the 50th parallel. Once he is on the Chaos side of Ygg I'll breath. If Gandis killed an Amberite he better be able to Juice the blame upstairs or I'd have his guts for garters. Borlak is going to war no matter what. One day I'll see if he is sentimental about his son. I doubt it. In the mean time he was mostly dead when Arlo got him here. Galvar lost 2/3rds of his brain and survived. Corwin had his eyes burned out. Agrom from was flayed alive by sentient abysmal diamond shards. Desri was decapitated and carried her severed head around in a box for half a decade. Benedict lost an arm. Bleys lost his nuts. Caine lost an eye. Hiroaki will heal. I may install a new pack of memories though."  Caine walks over. He extends his hand. When Realmer shakes it he feels a key passed to him.  He says, "That's my key to the Stair in Codupia.  Emilisa's true name is Cadwallow. Tell her I love her but won't be bound. If she wants me, I am in Amber." He leaves the room.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Benedict steps over for his turn. "If it comes to it, I would prefer my brother Borlak alive. If you expect to be in personal combat with him... in moments... call me."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer is shocked by the gift of the Key and Emilie's true name but manages to nod his head solemnly to Caine before he turns and leaves.  He says to Benedict. "The thought of summoning you in that instance had already occurred to me, but thank you for the permission. And I will refrain from killing Family members in the future. I'll keep a Stone Binding Spell handy and Arlo's Trump up my sleeve."  He turns to Random. "Thank you for helping with my mother; it means more than you can know. She said to me recently, that Hagalta took a piece of her mind and hid it away in a secret place. I hope the Attunement helps. And though a cell in the dungeons is not quite what I had in mind, I understand why. And speaking of cells in the dungeon... is Hagalta still imprisoned there? If so, perhaps it's best to keep mother far from that cell."  "Oh, and there are two Hagalta's. And before anyone asks; I don't know how or why or when or anything about it... but I do know there are two of him. When I took up the Kalota Clan Blade, I felt searing pain, then a flash of knowledge of all who had held it before, starting with the previous War Chief, Hagalta... and I distinctly felt that there were two of him and that they were in pain and they knew the Clan Blade had been passed... but I do not know if either Hagalta knows that it is I that claimed it."  His eyes drift to the Jewel of Judgment and he peers within it depths.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random grabs the jewel. Realmer feels suddenly the absence of attunement.  Random says, "my trust is shaken, you understand?"  Stepping from an alcove is a powerful presence, feeling like wizard and warrior.  Realmer recognizes Corwin. "Two Hagaltas. That is what brought me."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"King Corwin of Avalon, Well Met by Moonlight and Magic. Cousin; it is good to finally meet you. Your Trump doesn't do you justice. I'd introduce myself, but it seems I'm rather infamous at the moment. So, how do you know about two Hagaltas?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Corwin says, "Because there are two Deirdres. There is some evidence what happened to her happened to this Hagalta.  He looks to Random, "I am here to convince him to let me take a good long look at Hagalta. I've heard that he did some pit diving in Chaos. The spot Brand fell is a popular Pit Diving spot. Tourists...So far I have barely gotten him to approve letting me see Brand. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Ah, yes. I do recall over hearing something about two Deirdres after Vander returned from retrieving the Mind Sword. I retrieved Hagalta from the Oracle of Night before he was sent to the dungeons. And I have only seen him once myself, right after he was put there."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Corwin says, "Random told me recently that he had a Hagalta in the dungeons and that he heard from Chaos that there was one in Zilla. I came here to talk to Random since i dont want to lose time at home. The Dierdre I have in Avalon is somewhat scatterbrained. The one Fleece and Adrian have is a giant wolf. I've no idea how to unify them.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Unify them...? Implying a split Psyche perhaps... split personality... perhaps even a separation of Id and Super-Ego... Interesting..." he ponders a moment. "I have two Spells that come to mind... if I were to blend them together and reverse their effects... hmmmm.... OK, hear me out on this and see what you think."  "The first Spell is called Spirit Split. So, when you get right down to it, people are walking bundles of conflicting impulses. Fight or run away? Fall in love or go take a cold shower? Everyone lives in an ongoing tension, caught between courage and cowardice, generosity and greed, affection and anger... you get the idea. The Spell divides the conflicting impulses into two separate personalities, while still forcing them to inhabit in the same body. The effect of the spell is unimportant at the moment, but you get the gist of what it does."  "The second Spell is called Unweaving. It is most effective against Shape Shifters; the spell forcibly shoves the victim into component parts. It causes the body to fall apart into a number of simple organisms."  "Now... if one were to take and reverse the effects of each of those spells; rejoin two split personalities and rejoin two component parts of one body... blend the spells into one... alter the spell to have two targets... back it with considerable Psychic Energy and a great Power Source, like say the Pattern... "  He looks from face to face and shrugs.  "I don't know what you've already considered or tried, it was just the first thought that came to me. I was a Low Wizard and am now a High Order Sorcerer, among other things; I think magically and based upon my spell knowledge."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Corwin says,"My Dierdre can't walk my pattern. Not without doing what Aries did and as much as I love her I doubt she ever had that kind of focus. Right now there are less then a half dozen people that can walk my pattern. But Merlin is one of them and he is a low and high order sorcerer as well a Chaosian. He spoke of weaving and unweaving as well so he may be thinking along the lines you mention. But he also suggested consulting Masoja Dufiro of Binding, Time, Knowledge or Life. He said his best suggestion was a Masoja Dufiro of Wisher. Those are all just names to me. Even Dworkin is unsure. His suggestion is to have them walk the pattern together. He thinks some kind of physical division of cells occurred. In a way its nice to know he does not know everything."  Caine walks over, having not really been listening. "All that magic hooey is beyond my skills but i had a question..Corwin, you have seen both Dierdres. Yours and Bruiser. Are they the same handedness? Dierdre was left handed. Fought either hand or either foot of course and could write perfectly both handed, like most of us. But throw a rock at her head she catches it left handed."  Corwin says, "I don't know. My Dierdre is left handed. Almost exclusively. Now that you mention it...she often keeps her right hand clenched. As for Bruiser, she's a wolf. Handedness didn't come up." 
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random walks over and says, "I know you boys have a lot to talk about but i need Realmer for a moment. Come along."  He turns and leaves, expecting obedience. Benedict follows.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer nods to Random and follows but says quietly to Corwin while leaving: "I'll be back; I have some more advice that might help."  Realmer follows a step behind Random and to whichever side Benedict is not.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The rejuvenation room is a cold sterile environment as would be expected of Star Fleet Medical. Clean, Sterile, but with a lot of droids. Staff in red surgical coveralls check panels and charts.  Six Rejuvenation chambers fill this medium sized room. Two are in operation. In front of them stands a Fey lord with silver gray hair, looking greatly out of place in a high tech environment. He holds the tethers of two horses that are REALLY out of place.   Beside him is a woman in tight black leathers, with black hair. She looks intently at one of the chambers.  Random leads Relmopator and Benedict into the medical chamber.  Random says, “Desri! Donovan! So happy to see you! What an unexpected surprise that could in no way have been known to me in Star Fleet Medical! How have your trips in shadow been, Donovan? Keeping interesting company it seems. Your mom says Hi. Oh, you both know Benedict of course, one of you being his daughter. This other is Relmopator, who just got Adagalasck in a really messy war. What kind of trouble are you two getting into?"  Random looks curiously at the keg on the side of one of the horses with Brownies sticking their heads out the top.  Random shouts, "Computer:  Gin and tonics all around!!!”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Desri turns, and says, "Oh, hell...."  One of the brownies offers King Random of Amber a honey bun.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Lord Donovan. Lady Desri. Well Met, by Moonlight and Magic... or perhaps I should say, by Artificial Light and Technology." He chuckles. "And please, call me Realmer.  And I can't be fully blamed for the coming War in Adagalasck... Borlak sent assassins after King Julian, which is an Act of War in and of itself... but I'm sure I accelerated matters."  He smiles then looks to Donovan.  "And I hear I'm not the only person of note of late; I hear you found the Arden Stone and returned it to Arden. Quite an adventure, I'm sure."  Realmer takes one of the replicated Gin and Tonics and toasts Donovan.  Realmer stands nearly 6 feet in height, his white hair is in a long braid running down his back. Besides the red katana, he also carries a plain looking long sword across his back and two NP Daggers at his waist; one with a large red stone in the pommel, one with a large blue stone. He also wears a platinum ring with two small black opals and a large yellow stone and a mithril amulet with a large purple stone on a heavy mithril chain.  He is also notably barefoot.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The brownies climb out of the keg, quickly leaping to the horse's back, running and jumping to the ground. Going to a small table in a seating area off to a side the start pulling miniature plates and cups, samovars, and silverware out. They grow to a reasonable size. They fill a plate with hot fresh miniature honey buns, candied honey combs that enlarge. Put out several jars of mustards and maple syrup. A plate is filled with bacon. Another with maple roasted sausages. Samovars heat with tea. In less then three minutes the spread is laid out. They grab a bun and a big piece of bacon they share. Donovan gets a mental health sense that the brownies call the table ready as they disappear among the machines to break their own fast.
*'''Jill Pritts'''
Donovan takes a gin and tonic a bit gratefully, "Your Majesty." He nods to Benedict, "Sir."  He toasts Relmopator, "Well met. Life has been one big adventure lately," he says without giving details. The young man standing before you is around 5' 10", broader shoulders than you would expect from the Fae.. He has silver blond hair, pointed ears and eyes that fall somewhere in the blue/purple range. He is garbed in a finely tooled leather jerked. Long sleeves of of some dark green material and dark leather breeches and boots. He does have a sword on one side, a dagger on his belt on the other. One one wrist he wears a dark silver or platinum bracelet with a few dark blue jewels. A large white owl sits on the horse nearest him.  "I should proffer thanks, for saving my Father,congrats on starting a war, it sounds like things have been busy since I left," (note he doesn't actually offer thanks, very delicate worded). "And this is Lady Desri, Realmer, she played no small part in the Stone's recovery."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Desri laughs.."No small part? I only found it, scoped it out, arranged for recovering it and then had the pattern drop my friend here on me at the last moment. After that things did get complicated."  Random says, "Complicated? Try matching a half million troops down the jeweled road from Amber to Rue Katal. The Waymets along the way looked like locust victims after we left. Then of course I had Dalt march them home after the Stone leapfrogged us."  One of the red suited staff steps up to Donovan.  "Sir, that brownie with the green vest pointed out that the horses should be cared for. Would you like me to have them transported to the veterinary section holding. The look ready for travel but if the can be groomed, watered and fed easier there."
*'''Jill Pritts'''
Donovan partially turns never quite putting his back to anyone “That would be most appreciated. This really isn’t the place for them.”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The staff man says, "Not unless they want to be foals again!" Then the horses are transported away. The Browines start chittering worriedly.
*'''Jill Pritts'''
as they are about to be carted out and the brownies chitter Donovan says, “hold and grabs the brownie’s home and the saddle bags with important things off the horses.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
he realizes at the last moment that they are being moved magically-transporter. the tech stops the tranfer so Donovan can grab the bags then transports them.
*'''Jill Pritts'''
He turns back to the others. “Please help yourself,” he indicates the food. “I guess they wanted a life of adventure.” He turns back to Realmer. “So how is Julian these days?”
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer sips the gin and tonic, samples a bit of the food and returns his attention to Donovan as he begins speaking. He smiles, then sighs slightly.  "Julian is... nearly overwhelmed, by my assessment. Heavy is the head that wears the Crown. Prior to my arrival he had concerns over the growing tensions in the South, Krelat of Clan Shaxta causing problems in the East, Clan Kalota without a War Chief, backwards thinking Royals in need of education and concerns about his Wife, Sister-in-law and daughter. But he dumped some of those responsibilities upon me and just in time for several upsets within the power structure of Adagalasck, including an attempted assassination and his wife's Love Binding being removed from him... Caine's as well from Emilie. And of course the coming of the Flowing Horde lead by Borlak. Julian claims he still loves Nina and when last I saw him they were headed to the North Stair in Blomsia to reclaim the North Stair and North Wind. I myself will be returning to the West Stair soon then I'll be off to claim the South Wind and stabilize the region and help prepare Adagalasck for war. If you and Desri don't have any plans, you're both welcome to come join the fun. My Trump is in the Deck, you feel free to contact me."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random and Benedict listen but its Benedict who says, "Did you say Julian and Nina's daughter?"
*'''Jill Pritts'''
At about the same time as Donovan asks, “they have a child?”
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer arches an eyebrow, the slightest smile touches the corner of his mouth for just an instant.
"Yes. Her name is Sadashi and she is about 20 years of age or so in appearance, which would be about right considering it has been around that many years or more in Adagalasck since Julian returned to his Wife. Has the look of a warrior, but is highly curious about Sorcery. In fact, young Sadashi is my Ward, as per King Julian... as if I didn't already have enough going on. Honestly, I think she is a bit spoiled and more trouble than Julian wanted... but now I feel Julian and Nina need some time... for many reasons, so I feel I am obliged to keep young Sadashi out of trouble and out of their hair."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Benedict and Random exchange glances.  Ben says, " Perhaps considering you obligations Julian would consider sending his Ward to Amber as you did your mother. The person I know who knows how to handle a spoiled youngster of our breeding is Dame Margot. Tell Julian that Margot would be delighted to look after his daughter."  Desri says, "Perhaps Julian would like his daughter to spend time with her brother?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks at Ben, then Desri, then Donovan and finally Random.  "Well... I will certainly consult with Julian, when he is available, regarding his wishes regarding his daughter. Until then, I'm sure she will get an education that she cannot get in a University or from Dame Margot, no disrespect, by following me around during all this political upheaval and preparations for a war. Might be exactly what she needs, being a Princess of Adagalasck."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random says in a flat voice that somehow seems a command unexpectedly,  "Confer with him now."  Benedict nods.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer says nothing and simply pulls out Julian's Trump and attempts to make contact.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The trump opens quickly, considering the time relations. Julian says,"Good. I was about to call you. Trualta is excited. I told him I was opening season on Krelat. He is moving naval forces to clear your way south. Where the hell are you? Looks like Vulsar Base..ah...Kingdom of... Anyway... "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I am at Vulsar Base, and I am with King Random. I came to get my mother out of Adagalasck and away from the coming wars. King Random is graciously allowing my mother to stay in Amber. He also suggests you might want to send your daughter to Amber as well during the coming time of unrest. He said Dame Margot would be delighted to look after your daughter. I told Random she was only my Ward and I would need to confer with you first... King Random was insistent I do so immediately, so here we are."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Vulsar? 60 to 1. That's about 15 to 1 here. Better pull me through. I need to talk to him anyway. Tell him about Caine and Emilie. My war wont stay mine forever. As it is I am in an argument here I would rather not waste time on here. Might as well finish it there."   He extends his hand.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Well, Caine is here, in the next room with Corwin, and Benedict, Desri and Donovan are here with me and Random."  He extends his hand and pulls Julian through.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian says as he arrives, "Caine is here? By the teats of the Unicorn, who isn't here? Just Corwin? Random...Good to see you again. Guess Borlak took the Star Fleet incident personally?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Benedict says, "I like the idea of blaming everything on Vance and seeing if Borlak wants to Shadowwalk here. We already know he has scoped out a path to the Jeweled Road at the Arch of Adagalasck that stays out of star ship lanes."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks to Julian.  "I've already got my people moving in Adagalasck. I have them headed for First Step to gather the Clan Leaders of the Odaraxta for a war council. I should be getting a Trump call from Tesa soon letting me know they are assembled. Unfortunately, I haven't had the opportunity to speak with Caine and let him know about Emily's curse on him or that she lost her Wind... or what my intentions are regarding the South Wind. But he did give me this, which should make my plans a little less difficult."  He shows Julian the Key to the South Wind that Caine gave him.  "It is my intent to head to the South Wind as quickly as possible once I return to the West Stair. But since you are now available Julian, perhaps when we both get back you could use that transport trick and get me and my little group to the South Stair much faster then traveling across land and sea. The sooner I get there, the less chance of anyone else claiming the Wind and the seat of power."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian says, "If Caine is here i'll go speak with him but i agree. Lets get you and your strike team to the South fast. Donovan, its good to see you. Glad the Arden Stone business got settled. Come see me sometime. I will have a lot of action soon."  Random says, "Realmer, about your ward..."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer looks at Random and nods, then turns to Julian.  "My Ward, your Daughter, has been invited by King Random to stay with Dame Margot during the dangerous unrest that is coming to Adagalasck. I told him I had to confer with you regarding this matter, and now I am."  He gives Julian a pointed look, then looks to Random, then back to Julian as he takes a slow half step backwards, implying it is between the two of them and to keep him out of it.
*'''Jill Pritts'''
"I would like to get a chance to meet the sister, you didn't see fit to tell me about, but I cannot take her on as a Ward. I can recommend Dame Margot for helping an Amberite get adjusted to, well, all of this," he says.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Random nods to Donovan, "Yes, Julian can be like that. He didn't tell anyone except Oberon and Benedict about Duncan for almost a hundred years. He didn't tell us about you for almost 10 years and that was after I had made such a fuss about new Amberites."  Julian scowls, "Yes, Random, I didn't tell anyone about Duncan, Donovan, or Sadashi for a time. And Oberon brought you and Mirelle to Amber in your 30s with a sad and possibly dying mother, wonderful as she was for a time, and never told us about Giovanni. He brought Hamilton to Amber when he was in his hundreds and had him act as a personal Bodyguard for a decade before telling us he was kin. Evelyn was in her 50s and stayed in Amber a week. Nina and Emilie were 120 years old before Oberon brought them to Amber and then sealed them in a tomb alive after 3 years. He didn't bring Delwin and Sand to Amber with that bitch Harla till they were in their teens. He never told us about Jaques, Joseph, Kundjiiq, or Kibar none of whom I have met yet, save for Kibar just recently. He didn't tell us about Dalt and Dalt didn't tell us about Macsen till he was ready to walk the pattern. To the best of my knowledge only Ben here knew about Phillipe, Evelar and Evankala. Pierre has been to Amber long enough to walk the pattern and flee.”  He picks up a honey bun and wraps a sausage in it.  “Then we have Deirdre who didn't tell us about Geryon or Stryker. Caine didn't tell anyone about Samuel, Lark Harooon, or the kid he has running around he South wind someplace he didn't introduce to me even. Eric didn't tell us about Derek or Vander and only brought Arloxedra to Amber secretly to read the friggin' library. Flora brought Elyane to Amber for Eric's coronation in time to see Corwin blinded first person and didn't tell us she had FATHERED(!) a child, Zachary, till you issued the Call to Kin, And you left a heartbroken wife and child in an ally to be brought back to Remba by Llewella. We have all a tradition of hiding our children from each other which was the whole point of your Call to Kin. Even after that we have hid children from each other till they were not babes to be held as hostages or some form of knife to our throats.”  Caine and Corwin enter the medical bay and Corwin says, “I see Kingship, marriage, and fatherhood have not made you a more friendly person.“  Julian spins, looking to Corwin, “Its made me more honest, can you say the same? You came to Amber without Barret and Warrick. I don't know if either has walked the pattern even.”  Corwin, never shy about food, noshes, “They have walked the pattern; My pattern.”  Benedict says, “If we are rehashing this obscene pastime of genealogy lets include Gerard not telling us about Truman for 2000 years, and only telling us about Carissa when she was an adult. Delwin not telling anyone about Vance for a few millennia. A bunch of Adrian's kids who have never been presented at court, including one with Sand who looks like a Ewok. Dashel just had a daughter pop up in the Trump Deck.”  He points to Galvar, “There is Galvar Osricson over there with his impressive ability to hide in plain sight and be overlooked and hardly ever mentioned despite almost always being within 10 feet of the king. No one knew of him until after Patternfall. And most egregious examples of all is that none of us knew about two whole cadet branches of the family created by Dworkin, the Vincent and Verna lines, and that no one younger then King Corwin was told about the oldest of the First Brood. We were taught to hide our children till they could defend themselves against each other. Its our heritage as a race of Chaosians.”  Looking to Donovan,”I'll bet a Silverwing that you do the same when the time comes. Now, can we move this argument back to important matters?”  Desri says, “That may be the longest statement I ever heard you make that didn't involve warfare.. Till the last line anyway.“  Benedict looks to his daughter,” Yes. The arguments of the succession and our relative bastardies has always gotten my ire up.”  Caine says,”Not all of us are bastards. Corwin, Random, and I were all born in wedlock.”  Benedict looks to Caine, “You may have been born in wedlock but you manage to be a bastard anyway...”  Random raises his hand, “Whoa everyone! This may be the honey buns talking but its great seeing all of us in one place! Now... waving my magic king stick here to change the topic, let me put this another way. King Julian, Queen Vialle would adore having your daughter come to Amber to be a Lady in Waiting. While there Dame Margot will teach her to embroider and Princess Flora will teach her how to arrange flowers and break hearts. Prince Benedict here will certainly fence with her some and Prince Bleys can teach her magic tricks. What say you to this Royal Request?”  Julian looks to Relmopator silently asking for advice.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
As the conversation begins, Realmer finishes his gin and tonic, moves to the closet replicator and orders a Napoleon Brandy. He then makes his way to the table with food and samples a bit of everything.
Realmer smiles to himself and is glad the conversation is not centered on him. It is rather nice seeing the Elders squabble about something that was not him or related to him... mostly. And that he really didn't have to get involved.  But, as Random corrals the squabbling and makes a pointed request of Julian, Realmer moves back to Julian's side and says:  "Your daughter would be safe from the dangers of the coming war and would receive an excellent education. Plus it would remove a responsibility and a worry from my overfull plate."
*'''Jill Pritts'''
in the background Donovan orders coffee after putting his hand on Desri's shoulder. He then listens to the conversation and changes it to an Irish Whiskey.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian nods, "You are right, General. Your advice is sound. King Random, on the advice of General Relmopator I will have Princess Sadashi delivered to Queen Vialle's service promptly. My only request at this point is that I wish to be present when she walks the pattern. I am sure her mother would as well but Ninaaratres coming to Amber might be tricky. After her recent behavior it might be a bad idea for her to walk the pattern at Fantalin. The idea of having her walk the one in Royal Diaga makes my eyes cross."  Caine smirks, Corwin chuckles, Benedict nods, and Random says, "A Princess of Adagalasck, your daughter, walking the Diaga Pattern would mean about three thousand spectators, their entire royal family, delegates if not the ambassadors to Diaga from every Golden Circle kingdom and a lot of others, not to mention every one of our royals would get an actually engraved invitation requiring them to tell the Queen of Diaga why they can't make it."  Julian nods. Desri says, "I'd hate to have to pay that bar bill." Julian nods faster.  A voice comes over the intercom, causing everyone to look to the ceiling. "She could walk here. I have a Pattern."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Both of Realmer's eyebrows go up and the corners of his mouth go down and he makes a hmmm noise.  "I'm guessing that's King Vance? His offer sounds like the best idea I've heard all day. Julian? Random? Is the matter settled? I don't mean to be pushy, but we do have a Kingdom to stabilize and a coming war to plan for, and time is not on our side."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian says, "It sounds excellent. Pencil it in Vance. I'd like to talk to you for a moment. I think we are done here. Donovan, I'm not asking you to come to Adagalasck yet. But once the war is in full swing, i hope you come. Random, your majesty, give my regards to the queen. Tell her I still wear her favor should she need me and I appreciate her taking my daughter under her wing. Tell her I said to feel free to spank her. A time in the dungeons would probably do her good too. General, i will see you back at the house. Let Sadashi know to pack light. Vance, can you transport me?”  "Transporting now."  Benedict looks at Realmer, "A month out of Rasak and he's a General." Julian smiles wickedly as he transports.
*'''Jill Pritts'''
Donovan opens his mouth to say something to Julian and then he's gone and shuts it. "Does he make all of you want to drink too?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Does he make all of you want to drink too?"  Caine says, "Corwin regrew an eye, Benedict regrew an arm. I wouldn't want to guess how many of us have regrown livers. The Bayle family grew rich medicating the royals during the reign of Oberon. We practically had a pipeline from Tazilwere to Amber during Eric's reign. Does HE make us want to drink? Every time I hunted in Arden, yes."
*'''Jill Pritts'''
He looks to Realmer, "Don't suppose you can fill me in a little bit more on what's been going on with him?"
*'''Jill Pritts'''
Donovan looks warily at all of them, wondering what all has happened with his father and this kingdom that he is not picking up. He wonders why Caine's wife has considered to have cursed him, but Julian's wife messing with his head has everyone just fine. And deep down somewhere in his heart, but certainly not on his sleeve, he resents the attention that Julian gives to the Realmer and his daughter when was such a bastard to him.  (Not saying any of that out loud, just thoughts flitting in his head)
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Desri leans in and kisses Donovan on the cheek and leaves the room without comment.  Benedict quietly watches her then turns his attention to stare at Donovan.  Corwin says to Ben, "Yours, eh? I hadn't met her. She was gone by the time I reconnected with Amber. I know Doria of course. She's a piece of work."  Ben says, "Yes, work, a chemistry experiment. I spoke with Vek awhile back about the Benedict Cult Hall at Zilla and in Hendrake Hall. Maylon is Doria and Desri's sister, as is Yalla, but its me they venerate. One would think Maylon would be their focus."  Corwin says, "No, all Amberites may gain a following but a lot of them are based on artistic perceptions of the trumps. You defeated Chaos. There are Cult halls to you in most major and a lot of minor houses. A lot to me because of my pattern. Frigging Dara tried capturing me in one. This Vek, is of the Lintra line, under Maylon and Gaolus, I should try and meet him."  Random says, "Vek and I have an arrangement, just so you know. I have one with Jurt as well. I need more information of Mandalay. For pacifists they have a rather rugged intelligence community. I should get back to Amber. Caine, Benedict, look in on our other patient before you return. Caine, are you sure about Amber?"  Caine nods, "Yes. The ancient bind is broken. I love Emilie but i won't be a slave. If she wants me she can abandon Adagalasck and come to Amber. Otherwise its just a power thing for her."  Ben says, "But Julian chose to stay?"  Caine says, "He's King there. He won't give that up so soon. Besides, Ninaaratres was always his main love. "Looking to Donovan, "Sorry son, but Julian's attachment to Ninaaratres is ancient. His connection to Cyrene is new by comparison. "
Corwin listens, then asks, "Random, I'll be coming to Amber. We should talk. " Random nods and opens a trump. "Arlo. Bring me and Corwin through." They step across.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer has been watching Donovan out of the corner of his eye, watching his body language, listening more to what he does not say than what he does, since he says so very little, compared to everyone else in the room... except Desri who has also been rather quiet, other than her boasting about her involvement in the recovery of the Arden Stone. It is obvious there is tension between father and son, which seems common amongst the Royal Family of Amber, himself not withstanding. Realmer realizes that Donovan is not in the know as to current events concerning Julian and Nina and he intends to pull him aside once all the big talk is concluded.  When Benedict comments on him being a General so soon after leaving Rasak, Realmer is tempted to say something, but is instantly fascinated by the visual display of Julian 'transporting'. He tips his head to one side slightly, arches an eyebrow then says, “Technological Teleportation. Fascinating.” having no idea the significance of what he has done and said as he has never seen or heard of Star Trek or Spock.  Realmer is a bit surprised when Donovan makes the first move and asks him for information on his father but is actually glad he did. Realmer makes eye contact with Donovan and nods in the affirmative, giving him a look of understanding and empathy. Realmer recalls his early years in Amber and his first Family gathering for dinner when the Bayles were also invited and graciously provided the beverage selection, consisting mostly of their wines. The stories are still told of that night, when the Vampire of the Dungeons ruined a Family Dinner and made an enemy of an entire Noble House... and most of them were true.  When Caine comments about Julian 'choosing' Nina over Cyrene, then suddenly Random and Corwin are also gone, leaving only Realmer and Donovan, Benedict and Caine... Realmer glances at Donovan and says, “Perhaps now is a good time for us to talk...” he looks around at the room, “but I think we should find a setting better suited to adventurous types like ourselves. Honestly, this place is a bit uncomfortable. Give me a moment.”  He then turns to Caine.  “Caine; I should tell you... after you left, Emilie... was extremely angry and Nina believes she may have laid a Curse upon you. Emilie was so overcome with anger, that Nina begged Julian to put her to Sleep, for both she and Emilie had lost their powers and their Winds. She also begged Julian to put her... well, somewhere where I believe time flows imperceptibly slow... for her own safety... and others. You should also know, I intend to use this Stair Key you gave me to Claim the South Wind to fill the Power Void created by Dworkin's... intervention. It was my intention before you gave me the Key, but having it just makes things a bit easier on a couple of fronts.”  Realmer turns to Benedict and says, “General!? I didn't even know I was enlisted.” He chuckles and smiles. “Guess I'll be putting all that training to use sooner than I thought. I'll try to make...” he stops and chuckles again, “I'll try to NOT fuck up.”  He turns back to Donovan. “I have a personal shadow where I am sure we will both feel more comfortable. I can increase the time rate to give us a bit more time to talk before duty calls when a certain Trump call comes... There is a lot you will want to know and I am willing to help... but it is a Shadow within Adagalasck... not sure how you feel about visiting your father's kingdom, so to speak... and this is one of the few safe places I know where I have a high control of things. Unless you have a better suggestion? Your call.”
*'''Jill Pritts'''
Donovan shrugs at Caine's statement. He truly doesn’t care who his father hooks up with.  "I will go, I need to hear you out, in case I get drawn into the mess," he walks over to the table with all the food and looks to the brownies. "Time to take another trip, thank you for the lovely meal. He makes a sandwich of two pancakes and some eggs and sausage.