Editing Volume Two: The Adask War Wizard (section)

====<big>Fort & Venki; Thrice Crowned Bards & the Lullaby League</big>====

*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
As he reaches for his Trumps at the same time as Donovan reaches for his own...Time seems to slow down for Realmer. Much has happened in short order and he is trying to not get swept away by it all. He knows something is wrong with Bob beyond a Charm... the way Bob quoted-- no, misquoted his Directive Compellings, including Tesara in them. Being charmed is one thing, but 'rewriting' Compellings is another entirely... and Tesa shouldn't have that level of skill, yet. He suspects someone else may be involved, and the list was short; Conf, Tolknor or Av Reet were at the top of that list. And if someone is involved, it could explain Tesa's behaviors and actions. Regardless, he has to treat Bob as a liability and Tesa as a Competitor, possibly hostile. And Sadashi could have been forced to go against her will, and thus a captive or hostage... but equally possible a Competitor as well. And which Spiral was she going after? Or were the two of them working together in an attempt to take both Spirals? He needs to get to the Spiral of the South Wind quickly and Time was not on his side.   As he considers his attack strategy, Realmer reviews his choice of team members; Gangdis, loyal, experienced, excellent warrior, great tactician... Dorna, fierce, capable, young and strong... Carston, solid, practical, some Magic skills... he pauses as he comes to Fort; though he is a great warrior and sorcerer, and they have trained and fought together, and they share a common interest in Tesa... he is a Mercenary, and his loyalties may be a problem. Realmer knows he has ties to Tolknor, Tesa's Great Grandfather, and possibly to Conf, Tesa's Father. The few others that come to mind don't measure up or they don't like him enough to help... or Realmer just doesn't trust them enough to bring in on this mission... so, he may just be the best man for the job for and Realmer was going to have to make a firm contract to keep Fort from pursuing his own or other agendas.   And where in the Abyss is Giovanni? Tesara's Protector seems to have disappeared as well... and Bob didn't mention him, nor Julian or Gangdis... little to no time for that now... but he should at least ask... at some point.  Realmer considers that the Team could use a Royal Escort, five should be sufficient; a show of support from and affiliation with the King of Adagalasck, and it might help in other ways as well. Knowing the exact path to the Spiral of the Wind from the arrival point will be vital for speed and success; Realmer will ask Julian to use an Illusionary Cantrip to assist in his description before being transported... and he will inquire about the path to the Stair Spiral as well if Julian knows it. Also knowing who, by name, is in what position of power, by title, and who Realmer should and should not make contact with or seek support and help from... again, questions for Julian. But first...   Realmer snaps out of his reverie. He has two Dragonskin Trumps in his hand; one of Carston and one of Fort... he stares at the Dragonskin Trump of Fort with intent and awaits contact.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort answers fairly quickly, “Ah, Realmer. Well met.. hey, I found our masons. The great spuds never heard of us. Totally wiped. I checked their homes. A half dozen of the real magic books are gone. Guess what replaced them? Corwin's Chronicles. The Tales of Prince Caine. The Plays of Prince Bleys. Hilarious...So, whats happening for you?”
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Much. For starters, I have need of your services for a mission or two... I'm sure we can arrange some form of payment that is to your liking... including land and title if all goes well. I'm in Adagalasck. Can I buy your services? Are you willing to negotiate? Can you come through? Time is of the essence."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"Pull me through."  Stepping through, "I just met a new kinsman of yours. a girl named Alvah, Delwin's daughter. They walked into the Palace Commons in North Riding. Shes got a strong whiff of wizard about her. Anyway.. I'm more or less at lose ends. Give me a silver as a retainer and lets here what kinds of problems you have."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer sticks a hand deep into a pocket of his Robe and withdraws a handful of Amber Goldwings and hands them to Fort.  "Consider it your retainer, a gag order not to ask questions about why you're here with anyone until the last member of the team arrives and I begin the dialog... and an option to pay you to not act against me if you refuse my offer once you know the details."  He looks at a Dragonskin Trump in his hand then looks up and says, "Oh, you remember Sir Gangdis of the Elites, from your visit to Blomsia at the Embassy, and I'm sure you met Julian then as well, but he was not yet the King then, so... King Julian of Adagalasck, Fortunadas of Wall and CHAD. And this is Kae Dorna ag Brolic also of the Elites. Give me a moment and we shall talk details."  Realmer looks to the Dragonskin Trump of Carston with intent and awaits contact.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Carston appears looking worn. "sir? Well met. Are you in realm? Ive forces in the field moving. West winders. I've also hired a few specialist. What is your status?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Carston, I am in realm at King Julian's estate and I am in need of your services. I will pay you handsomely, land and title if all goes well. I'll explain once you're here. Can I pull you through?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He nods, "Give me 10 minutes and I'll wrap stuff up here. Can you get me back here?"   When Realmer calls him back he comes across. Nods to Fort.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
“Thank you both for joining me on short notice” Realmer says, looking to Fort and Carston.
“Here are the pertinent details: Within the last... day or so by Amber's Time, much has happened here in Adagalasck that has upset the power structure here and things are already happening fast; I have accepted leadership of Clan Kalota of the Odaraxta, the Clan Hagalta once led. The South Wind and the South Stair are available for the taking due to a Family incident that stripped Emiliesa of the South Wind of her powers, leaving a power void. There was an assassination attempt on King Julian that failed; it was led by Hiroaki, son of Borlak. We have reason to believe the Flowing Horde, led by Borlak is coming here to Adagalasck to wage war. I have also been given the rank of General by King Julian, but no current assignment. Many things are already in motion both inside and outside the Realm.”  Realmer was mostly looking at Fort as he spoke, as Carston is mostly likely aware of some or all of this already. But as he continues, he looks between the both of them.  “It is my intention to take a small Strike Team to the South Wind and walk the Spiral first and gain the Seat of Rulership for the South Wind; Julian will be able transport the strike team into the general area. We will face forces that may be fractured and confused due to the loss of their Bond with their Ruler. There may be others in the local area that are somehow aware of the power void and may be moving to take the Wind or the Stair. I would like to get both, but the Wind is my primary target, the Stair is secondary. But this will not be easy or clean as we have some opposition; Krelat of Clan Shaxta, once he hears of the power void, will certainly move his forces to the south and try to make a claim on whatever he can. We also have a definite competitor for the Stair and or the Wind; a party of two who shall remain unnamed for the time being. They have about a three hour lead on us at this point and are traveling on a pegasus at great speeds and bypassing any and all geographic hindrances with ease. And in the process, my Familiar, Bob, got Charmed by one of the two unnamed competitors and is currently considered an enemy. He also reported on his last contact that he is currently unable to transport for some unknown reason, which is to our advantage. I have since shield my mind from him but I don't think he is aware that anything is wrong. The team consists of the two of you” he looks to Fort and Carston, “as well as Gangdis, Dorna and myself. King Julian can provide us with some tactical information about the area and the forces and the route to take to get to the Spiral of the South Wind.”  Realmer turns to Julian. “And I was hoping you might provide a small escort, say five of the King's Royal Guard... and a royal symbol or letter of decree... to show your support of my claim to the South Wind. It might go a long way to making things go smoothly.”  Realmer turns back to Fort and Carston and asks, “So, are you both in? Or do you need to hear more before negotiating and accepting?”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort says, "Ok, king Julian. First, congratulations and condolences.  Secondly, I've a warrior eager to make his name crushing a major force. He is well suited to making a mess out of Borlak's army...hell do it to make a name for himself.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Fort, I didn't bring you here to negotiate with King Julian regarding the Borlak matter, I brought you here to negotiate with me on taking the Spiral of the South Wind. There will be time for other deals later, especially if I am successful. So, are you in and if so, what is your price?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort ponders, pulls a tankard and sips, for dramatic effect.  "I'm not open for business this time. This time i have my own problems and my own interests. First, the problem, and it is for King Julian. What Random doesn't understand is how fragile CHAD can be. Its a business empire made up of a lot of people who believe in their own power to rule 'The World." Arch mages, Saints of Battle, Kings, Warrior Priests. And at a certain point giving them gold and magic items doesn't satiate them. As long as they were in the Tosa/York shadows with a belief that nothing lay beyond them many of them felt they had achieved their goal. Me included. As a Thrice Crowned Bard, i believed i had reached the top. I had no plan to touch the World Stone so there wasn't much else for me."  He paces artfully.  "But once we knew about Amber, and a few of the people from the Tosian bubble had made it out before such as Tolknor and Conf, Hazarda and Timothy Elhue, friggin Guiness and Deblico, rumors of new realms made some mighty people come with CHAD to Amber. One of them in particular received a huge shock. At a reception a diplomat from the Golder Circle realm of Begma was introduced to one of my problem children and the man said, 'Excuse me, can you repeat that? I'm afraid i have never heard of you or your world.'  Suddenly he had countless realms that had never heard of him. Now he wants to change that. He has taken it upon himself to take a quarter of CHAD, who only joined CHAD because he did, and is marching out of Amber to find new worlds to conquer. I only barely convinced him to that the Crown of Azcala would look good on him. Your highness, would you like me to steer 200,000 raving lunatics lead by a titan at Khan Borlak?"
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"As for me, i like the work. Not the killing, I'm not necessarily a psychopath. I'm a scholar. A musician. A teacher, and a bard. While there are always books to read in York, at a certain point i repeat myself. I was the Chief bard, the Crowned Bard, of Tosa, York, and the Merchant's World. That made me an administrator as much as a teacher. Now I find new worlds. I can't become Crown Bard of Amber till Random gives me that crown. And i want it to by my 5th. Quint Crowned Bard..I like that. But i need a 4th one. So, I am here offering my service to Adagalasck, with an understanding that at some point, when i have learned enough, met enough people, been recognized for my knowledge here, created a legacy of education and scholarship here, the Lords of the 4 Winds, led by King Julian, will grant me my 4th Crown. I'll be the first Quad Crowned bard. To get there, i can't serve for coin. I must serve for knowledge."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer nods his head up and down slowly, a slight smile on his face and a gleam in his eyes, he chuckles as he looks at Fort.  “Fortunadas Enright, you crafty old fox. Bold moves and tempting offers. I should have expected such.”  He turns to Julian and his face and demeanor are more serious.  “Julian, I know the Titan he is referring to; I trained with him on Rasak and served with him on Adledross. His name is Alexandir kos Korag and sending him and 200,000 of his loyal fanatics against the Flowing Horde and Borlak does sound like a solid plan; I have seen Alexandir fight and lead men and it is truly an awesome sight to behold. As one of your Generals, I would advise we take full advantage of this situation and employ Alexandir and his Lunatics post haste. But I also advise caution in dealing with him; he could be problematic for a few reasons. He is egotistical and arrogant. He loves being the center of attention and he loves fighting. When challenged, he mostly relies on intimidation and his physical and combat prowess to solve matters. He only obeys orders and respects authority when it suits his needs. And there will certainly be a problem if...” he pauses slightly, “when, he finds out about one of the previously mentioned unnamed parties being here. We can discuss that matter later.”  “Now, regarding Fort wanting to one day be The Crowned Bard of Adagalasck...” he pauses again, this time for effect, looking like he is thinking. “I don't believe there is one, that I am aware of. And if he wants to be paid in knowledge, then that just saves us the coin, so to speak. And I can think of no better way for him to gain knowledge about the land and regions, peoples and customs, legends and lore of Adagalasck, than to travel the lands and meet the people. And assisting in the current political matters and the coming war could be quite informative as well; one can learn a lot about people during times of conflict and change.”  Realmer gives Fort a knowing glance, then continues.  “And once he has gathered all that knowledge, he can bring it to the soon-to-be-built, Adagalasck Campus of the University of Fantalin. As the soon-to-be Chancellor of said University I would like as much knowledge about all of Adagalasck and it Peoples to be recorded and stored at the University and be including in the teachings, as well as the standard courses Fantalin offers, including Magical Studies and... I think... maybe we should add Bardic Studies as well. And as the soon-to-be South Wind, hopefully, once the knowledge is acquired and his reputation is solid and name is known far and wide, I would gladly support Fortunadas Enright's petition to be The Crowned Bard of Adagalasck.”   “He is exceptionally capable in personal combat, tactics, strategy, multiple magics, and many other fields of expertise. He is a fast and creative thinker, a wealth of knowledge and he knows lots of people and has many contacts. He is certainly an asset in several regards and him wanting payment in knowledge of Adagalasck helps us as well, with the University and you personally as the King; you will be able to learn even more about your Kingdom and its Peoples to better understand them so as to better Rule them. And I'm sure during Fort's travels he will tell the tales and sing the songs of King Julian of Adagalasck."  "And if you need a second opinion, on Fort or Alexandir, you could ask Sir Carston here; he was also there on Rasak and Adledross with us... and he has known Fort longer than I.”  Realmer pauses again, for effect and for Julian to think a moment. “So, Julian; what do you think?”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian ponders a moment but knows his answer without thought.  "Sir Carson, what think you of Alexandir?"  Carson says,"Sir, I was born on Tosa, in the reign of the Emperor. One of the hardest things about serving in CHAD wss accepting that Alexandir was a fallible man not an god of creation. I was in His presence rarely but was knighted by proxy before him and given the blade I fight with from His hand. Issuing him Orders on Adledross always seemed like telling the waves to stop or the moons to set in the East. I only saw him humbled once, by Fort. Though in fairness, I felt much the same, as a common adventuring knight, to suddenly be on first name basis with Fort."  "If you can gain the service of such men, take it. But....". Looking nervously at Fort then to Julian," prepare a stair to imprison them in need. Especially Alex."  Fort chuckles, "Ah Carston...To see you all grown up. No longer a raw trainee in the army or Wall or adventuring in the picked over ruins of Eldimior and suddenly a man of means able to suggest imprisoning the God Of War or the High Priest of Venki without the slightest religious twitch is wonderful. I promote you to Commander without Portfolio, CHAD Main Force Legions. Julian, expel me before imprisoning me as Commander Without Portfolio Sir Carston the Mighty suggests. I'll go quietly. Oh, but put Alex in a small box. Its safer not to give him titan axe swinging room" He laughs...Carston blushes.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian looks to Realmer."You will be busy. Would you relinquish the Deanship to Fort? It seems he might be a better director of such a enterprise. "
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I agree with you Julian, Fort would be a better choice to head up the university here. But I would still like to be involved, perhaps teaching Magic. And though I believe that Aries would like some say in the matter, I don't believe he would object."  Realmer glances at Carston then back to Julian.  "And I agree with Carston; you should have a few Stair Realms prepared as prisons just in case they are needed. And I would also highly recommend that you confer with King Random and Lord Marshall Benedict regarding Alexandir."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian agrees, "I have a place in mind. Slow time. Day there is a year here. Give them a month long vacation and we can get a lot done on our side. Its tempting to lure Borlak in and put them both in the box. Alright, Fort... is it your intention to offer your fealty?”  Fort nods, "Conditionally. Tolknor has my primary fealty but he is the definition of flexible. I have obligations to Lop and CHAD, but they work both ways. I would have to be convinced putting Alex on ice was the only choice. And no fealty to you extends to being Fealty to Random. My agreement with Random is long term. I hold fealty of a wide range of people across many worlds. I am a thrice crowned bard but currently only hold the crown of the Merchant's World, something of a Tosian grand bazaar that serves a few thousand worlds and a number of connected shadows."  "I am the High Priest of Venki. That relationship is locked binding Venki and I through the World Stone, though i never touched it. I took the role to help a friend who bit off more then he knew. He will be here within the hour. With him will come my wife. I assume you will understand that my relationship with her transcends mere fealty. As such, being such, I stake my faith if you will have me so."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Oh... and speaking of fealty..." Realmer turns and looks to Julian, "Since you made me one of your Generals and I will hopefully be the Master of the South Wind soon... Will I need to swear fealty to you as well? You know that I hold fealty to Amber and King Random first, of course."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"If you wish. The winds don't typically swear to each other. Rulership is so flexible they rarely have a king. But I would take it. I am depending on personal connections rather then flimsy ones."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"In the mean time. You should move. Fort, will you go with him?"  He nods, "Indeed. I look forward to seeing the place."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Excellent! Glad to have you aboard Fort. So Carston, I know it's just a formality but I should ask, are you in as well? Unless King Julian orders it, I am giving you the option to not go on this Mission with me. But I would really appreciate your help."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Carston looks at the company he is in. "No risk, no rewards. My staff can handle the logistics here, I hope. But the fight is in the south. When do we leave?”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian takes them to the Wind Hall that he uses as his throne room. He speaks to various people but makes them walk with him to talk. He introduces Fort as Dean of the new university and a military advisor."
As they go Carston talks to military people and its clear there is some political struggle among the West wind military, below the level of Julian and Realmer. Clearly there are people who try to give Carston advise-orders that Julian ignores and lets Carston deal with.  Fort looks around and remembers every face, every conversation in every room he steps into. He is smiling mischievously."  "You know, Realmer, its been a long time since i was challenged by new surroundings. I feel like a young adventurer!"  Julian takes them down a series of stairs waving off questions.  Realmer suspects where they go.  Reaching a large wide door it opens for Julian. In side are several sorcerers that Realmer knows. They nod deferentially.  But it is the spinning colors that takes everyone's attention.  The Spiral of the Four Winds Spins in its 4 colors over the inscription on the floor. As Julian approaches the winds subside.  Fort looks at it intently..”May I approach it? Examine it closer?”  Julian nods, “This is the Spiral of the Four Winds. This is the West Wind, warm breeze that brings growth and health and quiet sleep. It is the warm night. It grants the Basic Accord-the ability to use low order magics. It is a High Order inscription that allows the use of High Order magics. Realmer has seen the North wind, the bringer of cold. Correct? What do you think, Fort?”  He looks amazed like Realmer has never seen him before. Kneeling on the floor, an inch fro mthe border to it. His own magics can tell him nothing about it.  Fort stands. “Impressive sir. I do hope you will allow me to study it. Its been a long time since I needed to study a power!”
Julian nods.”You may study it. It is not dangerous to assay. This spot here is the start.”  Fort walks over and looks closer, “I can feel it, barely. Like an embrace..”
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian nods. “Please. Study it all you like. My sorcerers here are hide bound by generations of tradition. Realmer is one of the few sorcerers from outside the world who bears the Spiral. I am afraid I am not much of a mage. I will need people to teach me how to use this construct I now possess. You have my permission to assay it. Now.”  Fort turns, stand, stunned.. “Ah..ah. Really?..a High Order Inscription?....Made by the Jewel of Judgment. May I?”  Julian smiles, “Do I need to push you?”  He shakes his head, smiling. Stripping his gear off, setting it into bags of holding and handing all his gear to Realmer, he is naked to the room.
Julian says, “You don't need to walk bare.”  Fort smiles, “My gear is fine tuned but all of it is over a lower level of reality. I dare not risk this construct being insulted by them. Or de-magicking them.”  He inhales, smiles deeply and sets his foot to it.   The winds follow him. Surround him. Embrace him. Color him. He walks slowly, relishing the experience. Feeling the great power invade him. His greatest imprint, the Pattern of York, is a pattern made from a shadow of the Jewel in a Shade where Amber fell. He feels himself enlarged in the embrace.  As Julian and Realmer watch, Julian says, "You've walked the North Spiral already. Walking this one will add some warm weather effects and connect you to this Wind too but Nina says sometimes they get confusing. You are going to take the South Wind if possible. You can risk the confusion if you like."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort reaches the end of the Spiral. Stepping from it he stretches out his arms widely. Inhaling as if it was his first breath. He laughs loudly and deeply.  Stepping over he puts his hand o n Realmer's shoulder, reaching up. "Well, that was worth the price of admission! I can feel my other imprints almost whimpering.. I can feel the sorcery I had racked on the York Imprint almost itching to cross over and upwards! I have so much reading and exploring to do! I'll rack as we go!"  Julian laughs, "Good to hear! But we aren't done. Realmer, wait a moment. Just incase you have complications."  Turning he looks to the man in the far doorway. "Carston. Come here"
Carston shakes his head and walks up. "I've never seen such a thing. Its incredible."  Julian says, "Its even better from inside. You start here."  Carston looks to Julian, "Ah what?"  Julian says, "Walk the Spiral, Sir Carston." Fort turns and smiles broadly and wickedly.  Carston pales. "Me? no...I'm not a mage.. I mean yes i know a few spells but i almost never use them."  Julian says, "You bear the Second Accord. I'm not sure you ever used any of its powers."  Carston says, "That was just study, to serve Realmer better during his embassy.. It wasn't.. this.. I never saw the one in Blomsia."  Carston looks to Realmer, his eyes wide.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Before Fort finishes walking the Spiral and Carston is called over, Realmer says to Julian: "I will risk it; the additional connection and imprint will be worth it. And I am sure I can handle the confusing aspect Nina mentioned; I bear two nearly identical Pattern Imprints. When I walked the Pattern in Amber, my Ambir Imprint was not erased or absorbed... the new Amber Imprint... overlaid the Ambir, but somehow I still bear both. We will see how I fair soon enough."  Once Fort finishes walking the Spiral and Carston is called over, Realmer smiles proudly at Carston and looks into his now wide eyes, nodding his head in approval.  "As you said, 'No risk, no reward.' This isn't like walking the Pattern, as you can see Fort handled it well and seems refreshed. And you are certainly ready for it. With your attention to detail, you will make an excellent Sorcerer. You're well on your way; you already have access to more Low Order Spells than you realize. While on Adledross, you were present for most of my Magic Lectures and Lessons, including many of the High Order ones... so, you already know most of what you need to Weave and Hang Spells, you just need the ability to do so and a place to Hang them; and THIS" he points to the Spiral, "will give you access to both. That and a few refreshers on Sorcery." He pats his shoulder and smiles warmly. "Go ahead, risk it."  Realmer turns to Fort, after returning his gear and he is fully dressed.  "I'm glad to see your Adventurer's Spirit has returned and that you're all fired up; I'm going to need a strong second in command, like on Adledross; things could get dicey rather fast, and things are already complicated. Now that you're fully onboard, you should know the identity of the two previously unnamed competitors that stole a pegasus and Bob; our mutual friend, Tesa Resa, and Julian and Nina's daughter, Sadashi. They are headed to the South Wind and may be attempting to claim one or both Spirals. I think Tesa somehow Charmed Bob, perhaps something to do with her new powers emerging. We will get to that shortly. Once Carston is done, I'm going to walk the West Wind Spiral, but I shouldn't need you to hold my gear, all of it is High Order, most based on the Pattern... most of my Low Order gear was lost when I walked the Pattern in Amber the first time... I was so excited to walk it I forgot what Dworkin had taught me and... well, poof, naked and sans magical equipment." He chuckles. "So I spent decades studying and crafting even better gear. It all held up perfectly when I walked the North Wind Spiral." He shrugs.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort says, "Bob...ya... well....about that....Ah..."  Fort turns to Carston, "Carston, don't delay. Fortune favors the bold. CHAD has over a million members in the warriors ranks and only my particular mentality allowed me to pick you out of a crowd. You were picked out of the horde because you happen to be a native Tosian and in Wall when we were hired. You were not a lot different then thousands of high level fighters then. However, you had drunk a large number of Ur-vile potions; Strength, Dexterity, Constitution. Typical for the fighter classes. Yet,for some reason you also drank Intelligence and Wisdom ur-vile potions.. Its personal but I always wondered why? There were mages in your adventuring group. Good ones. How did you end up drinking what clearly they should have claimed?"  Carston looks nervous, 'It was my pick..We had raided into Eldimior and hit a stash of magical treasures. Wands, several Staves, Mind flyer skulls..I had no use for those so on my pick I took the ur-vile potions. They complained but it was my pick, they understood.. You understand, yes? I rolled a low party pick and there was nothing left but Intelligence and wisdom potions unless i wanted a wand... So i took them. I could have sold them back at Wall but i had plenty of treasure.. During the party picks there was no point for that. So I took them."  Fort nods, "And you became smarter. Wiser. You started reading war manuals in the Library of Wall. You bought war tomes on the Merchants world. Geographies. Books on mathematics. Physics books from Mac's Bar. Histories of Paradox and the Wars of Discord.. Its all in your record. Hell man, its on your character sheet. You were always planning for bigger things. But I hardly knew you till you caught my eye with the Port Tosa business after we came to Amber. That's why when a request by a royal of Amber came for a soldier we sent you. Smart, wise, strong. Ambitious? So. It worked. You learned a lot your first time here. Enough to get sent to Rasak. Gained not just skills, but friendships, loyalties... You wanted to piss with the dragons, well now you can. Walk the fucking Spiral NOW!!"  He inhales deeply, looks to Julian for permission. Seeing it he sets his foot on the Spiral.  The winds surround him as he walks.  Julian says, "Ur-Vile potions?"  Fort nods, "Ur-viles were a race of horrors on the world of Paradox. They made these thick black potions.  Highly magical treasures. They raise natural attributes permanently. Changed genetics. Once taken they could not be removed. The common ones were Strength, Dexterity, Agility, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma.  There is a certain toxicity to them and a life dose is only so many. But a person can drink several dozen easily enough. I've drank a dozen of the intelligence, wisdom, and charisma ones each. As well as a half dozen of the others each before they stopped effecting me. Carston's record shows he took a dozen Strength and Dexterity and Constitution ones, a handful of Agility, and at least three Charisma. But he also drank 8 of the intelligence and 6 of the wisdom and that is unheard of for a warrior unless he wants to split class into mage or cleric. He never did till coming here. As he said, a rich magical horde. Wands on Tosa may be used by anyone. So they are particular prized. Wizard's Staves on Tosa combine powers offered to them, so they are prized by wizards too. I have one. Realmer, when you hired a bodyguard one was chosen with a unique collection of life choices that made him possibly suitable to gain powers and experience from serving you. We were right. He served you well. Now serves Julian. But....there is no resigning from CHAD. There is just no longer taking new commissions. His hire card is full now."  Carston steps free of the Spiral and falls to his knees.. Dizzy. as the powers of the Spiral fill him.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian says, "Ur-vile potions? That's why so many of the people in CHAD are on par with Amberites in strength, Endurance. Why they understand Warfare like Amberites. How their mages manage high order sorceries using the Broken Pattern and the Mal at Reiss. They drank these potions.  Are their many more?"  Fort shrugs, "Adventurer claimed them all. Then Paradox disappeared. When paradox was dissolving CHAD got several million people off the realm and a lot of adventurers but the Ur-vile were gone. Their potions had been traded or seized for thousands of years and spread across the realms of Mac's Bar. But when Paradox dissolved adventurer raided to find them all. I suppose shadows of them could be found now."  Carston stands. Steps near Realmer and leans his head in and whispers.."Thank you."  Carston stretches.."Ready for duty!"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer listens to all the new information about Carston with great interest. When Carston leans in and whispers his thank you to Realmer, he slides an arm around his shoulders and gives him a one-armed brotherly hug and whispers back, "You're welcome. You've earned it."  He releases Carston from the one-armed embrace then looks to Fort with his head slightly lowered, his left eyebrow furrowed and his right eyebrow arched.  "And what exactly did you mean by: 'Bob...ya... well....about that....Ah...'? What do you know, Fort?"  Realmer is anxious to walk the Spiral and get to the South Wind, but even more anxious to know what Fort might know about Bob's predicament. He continues to stare into Fort's eyes with intent and a look of 'I'm waiting' on his face.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
"What do I know? Lots of things. Zillions of things. As for Bob...Its mental directives were changed and its protective of Tesa? She doesn't have the power. Her father does. He works through proxies. He can see through the eyes of animals. Control them at distance. Like the hearing his name in shadow thing.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer sighs and eases his gaze upon Fort a bit, then nods his head.  "Her Father. Yes, I had considered him the prime candidate once I also realized that Charming Bob was one thing, but altering his Directives... I was sure that was currently beyond her. So now the questions are: Is Bob to be trusted and is Tesa also under some of her father's directives or just making a powerplay of her own choice? And one other thing you should know, Fort; Tesara of Amber has walked the Pattern, and some of her hereditary powers are starting to surface. Think on that as I walk the Spiral."  Realmer turns to Julian and bows his head respectfully.  "With your permission, Master of the West Wind."  Then he steps up to the Spiral as the others before him did and he studies the Inscription, carefully noting the differences between the West and the North Wind.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian nods.
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
Realmer sets foot upon the Spiral of the West Wind and walks it as the others did. He observes the differences in the experience from this Spiral and the North he walked years ago.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
The feel is similar but warmer. He doesn't feel like he is being rewritten just brushed.  The passage is easy and he feels the warm wind on him as he leaves the spiral.  Julian says, "When I stepped off this one I felt like I was finally home some how. It's why when Dworkin broke the charm I stayed."  He asks, "Alright. Whats your plan? How will you get there? Tesa is on griffin back. She had no teleportation powers. You can get there faster?"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
The warm wind of the West gives him a different kind of shiver than the cold wind of the North did, and he sighs with comfort instead of sharply exhaling. He smiles at Julian.  "That feeling of Home came for me the instant I set foot in Adagalasck; the darkness of daylight, the electricity in the air, the feeling of power everywhere..." he inhales deeply and lets it out hard. "I love this place. And I feel honored to have walked two Spirals and will feel blessed if I get to walk and claim the South Wind."   "The Plan. First; how we get there: Julian, you said you could transport us to a point near the South Wind, about five or so at a time. Send the five of us first" he looks to Fort and Carston, then Gangdis and Dorna near the doorway; he motions them over. "And if you can spare the troops, send five of your Elite Soldiers or equivalent soon after; we could use some backup in cases things go badly and the combat becomes a numbers game... though I do have a couple of spells and a magic item that will help with extra troops if needed. But if you cannot spare the troops, then our five man team should still suffice; mostly I want them to show the support of the King and West Wind... every advantage helps."  "I want a Five Pip Formation (like on a die; Adledross thing) with Fort and Gangdis to the fore and Carston and Dorna to the rear. If there is a Team B, they will follow or lead as needed; Spear Tip or Reverse Spear Tip Formation based on position. We are to move fast and avoid combat and killing at every turn; the people we encounter may soon be my subjects and loyal followers, best not to make a bad first impression. If we must engage in combat, it will be running combat until we achieve our goal of The Spiral of the South Wind. Once there; combat will be defensive to protect me while I walk the Spiral. Again, I repeat; avoid killing at all costs."  "Julian can brief us on the route from the arrival point to the South Wind Spiral... and the Stair Spiral. Our primary objective is to Claim the Spiral of the South Wind before anyone else... me having the Key will make that mostly assured. Our secondary objective is to claim the Stair Spiral; if that is not possible, so be it. Once the Spiral or Spirals are walked and Claimed, then we can work out the logistical details of my Rulership with the local Lords and Administrators."  "Julian; over to you. Then questions and advice, then we depart."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort says, "Realmer, you have Arlo's card. I need to talk to him for a moment. I need to call in a favor and get him to transport a couple specialists. 20 warriors. Once Arlo gets them here, Julian can pass them to us there. Will you call him for me? A contact trump won't do."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Ummm.... yeah.... Arlo and I have never really been on good terms with each other, and even more so recently with the whole Hiroaki thing... perhaps it is better if you do it yourself."  Realmer pulls out his Deck, shuffles through and withdraws and hands over, Arlo's Trump to Fort.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Julian, "I'll do it. bide a moment."  Soon Fort put his Hand on Julian's upper arm. "Yes.. I need that favor. Two part. Yes.. First,a couple hours ago I sent word to Venki that i need him and his cadre. There will be twenty of them. They travel light. He will bring them to the castle and should be there any.. ah... good. Excellent. The second.. I need the blade you showed me. I know.. You said.. I know.. Title does not pass. So recognized. Thank you."  Moments latter a elven looking young man steps through, an extraordinarily beautifl harp in his hands. Behind him come a group of all descriptions. Some young, some older, some human, some elven, a dwarf and a half-orc. All with musical instruments and blades on their sides. Lastly Arlo steps through and the gate closes. He nods to Julian, sees Realmer and gives a curt nod.  Arlo says, "Fort, this is pushing it. I didn't get permission. If it gets lost I'll be in serious trouble."  Fort says, "I know..Its on me. If it gets lost i'll find it.. If it gets destroyed then...damn.. tough."  Arlo hands a wrapped bundle to Fort. He sets it on a table and unwraps it. Grasping the grip he raises the straight blade. He says, "Wayfinder."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Fort looks to Realmer."We can't be late and we can't take a wrong turn. King Julian, Lord Realmer, this is Venki Fairhand. He whose song flies like the summer winds and shakes like the winter storms.”  Venki turns, with a musical voice says, "Oh for the love of rum, stop that..I had to spend a month curing people from a conversation with friggin Reltorious.. My pleasure, your majesty. May my song calm hard hearts and my blade quell violent ones" He extends his hand and Julian shakes it.  Julian says, "I assume you are a bard? As are they?"
Fort says, yes, "He is a Thrice Crowned bard, as am I. His pleasure is the arts of peace."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Venki looks to Fort and says, "The Fox is taking the long way. But she was as shocked as I. You don't usually tell me its an emergency. Whats the issue?"  Fort says, "We are seizing a tower and starting a university. I need you for both."  The orc says, "Siege and Song? My kind of war!"
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Wow. Quite the Following, Fort. Oh, niiiiice. I know that Blade; quite handy."  He eyes Wayfinder then glances to Arlo, nods to him respectfully, and looks back to the Sword of Power and recalls the last time he and Arlo both stood over Swords of Power together... in the Dungeons decades ago with Vander and Benedict and Random... Realmer still wonders where exactly that valley filled with dead bodies is located.  "Venki; Well Met by Moonlight and Magic. Thank you in advance for your assistance in this matter. I'm sure I'll get to know the rest of all of you soon enough." He glances at all the new faces and makes eye contact with each if possible. "Venki, this is Sir Gangdis of Cogswell, Sir Carston of Wall and Kae Dorna ag Brolic, the rest of my team. We will be departing soon; time is of the essence and not on our side."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
He nods and stops on Carston.."Carston of Wall. Carston Brak? You smell different then i remember. "
Fort says, "He just passed through a high order construct. " Pointing to the Spiral.. Venki looks to it..
Venki examines it, "Its like Plymouth.. A squiggle.. Completed. Incredible.. Father would love to see it."
Fort, "Later. In years to come. Ready your team. Sir Realmer, at your command."
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Arlo steps to Julian, Pulls a bundle from a bag of holding, "With regards to King Julian from King Random. A gift for the realm." He pulls the blade and sheath and hands it to Julian.  "Coinspinner."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"Another Sword of Power. Feels like a Family Reunion... certainly a remembrance of the past. Odd."  Realmer shakes his head and looks away from the Sword and around at the men and women around him about to undertake a mission for him, and the Realm of Adagalasck.  "Thank you all for coming on short notice. The goal is to get me to the Spiral of the South Wind before anyone else; a Spiral like this one." He points to the Spiral on the floor that all can obviously see.  "Our objective is to do this without killing or maiming anyone, and preferably without combat at all. The peoples and beings we will encounter may soon be my subjects, I would prefer my introduction as their new Ruler not be bloody. We will move fast, and now..." he looks to Wayfinder, "we will move true and without error. We have competition; a pair of young women on a Pegasus with a great head start, more than half way there from here by now, I would gauge. We will transport out in teams of five, my team first. I keep my plans simple for a reason; better not to over complicate things. But one last thing; right now, each of you, take a moment and think about anything that might go wrong, so if it does, you won't be surprised by it and you will be ready to spring into action."  He pauses intentionally for a moment and thinks of a few of his own and then looks around the room of faces again.  "Let's move out. Julian; at your discretion, begin transports."  Realmer does not move, but looks to see if his team moves into position before transport. His Bone and Vine Staff 'appears' in his left hand (sleight of hand: Bone Wand up sleeve, SS to Staff) then he draws his Clan Blade with his right hand and holds the katana with the blade pointed downward before him.
*'''Michael James Watson'''
Venki looks to his group. "Ok, Lullaby League, tune your weapons."
*'''Daniel Eric Van Campen Sr.'''
"I'd forgotten how interesting it is traveling with a Bard, let alone a group of Bards. This should be an experience worth telling tales about." He chuckles.