Alex gains advice from Flora

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Alexandra Dejana Mira
Before they leave she tells Duncan she needs to contact someone real quick. Hoping not to disturb she pulls out Flora's trump. As she looks at it figuring she might need some time to talk to more family. It could help her feeling about her role in the family as well. With a smile she focuses on the image of the radiant beautiful woman reaching out to contact.
Vek et al
Flora appears looking into the contact. "Alexandra? Well what a pleasant surprise! How can I help you today? Are you coming to the christening?"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex looks surprised "christening? Oh of who?" She smiles pleasantly. "Actually the reason i reached out is if you could do me a favor. My white dragon, i'm sure you've seen him, is in the library. Duncan and i are currently on vacation in Alamond and i figured he would like to be with me doing some flights and after wards perhaps meeting Zachary. " Curiously she asks. "So christening? Should Duncan and i come by with gifts?"
Vek et al
"Not really.. Its the new theater. Bleys has combined three blocks adjacent to the Theater District and is constructing a Grand Opera House. The land has been cleared and he is having a big tado about christening the corner stone.. anyway.. So... your dragon? Little (name). Yes, he comes by for scraps with the cats nightly. WHen i get my hands on him, i'll trump you"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods
"ah alright well since we were not invited i am sure it is nothing bad if we miss it. When we're back in Amber i can always send him a gift or something. But things are still calm and quiet in Amber then. " She nods "Yes little Teaue figured he would have formed a group with the cats for food. He is probably in my reading nook in the library. If he needs convincing you could tell him there are books in Alamond. If we see Zachary when we go to Hepplewhite's do you need me to pass anything along?"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Oh and i had another personal favor or question. We never really got to sit down and talk. I hope to do that if you agree when back from this vacation. I would like your views and opinions on matters."
Vek et al
Flora rolls her eyes, "Zachary is being particularly cagey these days for some reason. Not taking my trump calls. But he is fine, not in danger, so i am not worried. I see Teague now. I can pass him through. He has quite filled your nook I am told. He has also lured a few of the old psuedo dragons out of the dungeons.. They were a fad once upon a time. Then for some reason they all sort of disappeared into the dungeons. They have a lair down there someplace. Anyway Teague has awoken them so there is now a dozen or so setting up roosts in the library. Crispy isn't amused. I don't know why? They don't foul in doors. Anyway, if you have something on your mind pull me and Teague through. I could use a change of scenery."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex smiles at Flora her news and story. She nods "Of course Teague has foudn more well they are welcome with me. I'll make sure they have a good spot and all. Maybe even make a little grove for them in Arden. If we can have Weyrs we can have pseudo dragon groves. And isn't Crispy always unamused about something or another?" She then holds out her hand. "Aunt Flora you are more then welcome. "
Vek et al
She steps through, with Teague on her hand, looking around at the surroundings
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex makes a presenting motion "Welcome to Alamond. We are currently in Valencia Mountains going yo do some air stunts. After this we'll go to Hepplewhite's " She holds her hand out to Teague "figured you want to join us my friend."
Vek et al
Teacgue flies about her happily, skittering, then swoops off to find his friends. "Alamond? Really? I've never been and I can't stay long. Certainly not long enough to be noticed. But i could use some wine. "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex looks surprised she then nods "Alright well lets get some wine flowing then. " she looks at Duncan and smiles "Figured before we left on our adventure i asked for Teague and Flora needed a change of scenery." Alex looks about and finds the wine. Pouring three glasses. She lays a tray of some meats for her three pseudo dragons. She waits till Flora is settled and if Duncan decided if he wants to stay for the chat or go around himself.
Vek et al
Duncan says,"I'll leave you two to chat. I'm going to go look over the plane collections"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods "Have fun dear. Remember you already have dragons at home no need for planes." She jokes a bit. She then gestures to a seat for Flora and sits down herself with a sigh. Everytime she sits down and tries to relax a feeling of guilt goes over Alex. "It is not a pressing matter. I just would like your view on things. Even when i was a guard i always very much respected and admired your way of keeping so..... put together. Seeming to be so in control. "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex looks at her glass of wine twirling the contents in the glass. "I feel like everythjng but put together or in control i wonder how you do it? You must have difficult times."
Vek et al
"Hmmmm Its an illusion... I was the kid sister to lords of the universe. Mostly overlooked. Of course I slept with most of them so they generally liked me. Regardless of the conflicts I tried to stay on good terms with everyone. Even in the Black Road war...When Corwin came to me I helped him as best i could. He overlooked that i had been watching him on that earth for a few hundred years. Had a daughter there even. Balance. Have a smile on your face and grenades in your purse. Something for all occasions."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex smiles her general friendly smile. Realizing she does she laughs heartedly. "Alright the general smile on my face i got. It is a thing i've already done since being a guard. The grenades in the purse thjng not so much. Didn't even bring my bow with me on vacation... seemed out of place. " She looks a moment with an admiring look at Flora. "Somehow it does help me hearing that you are holding up an illusion at times as well. Still you are always so patient seemingly and kind to all. Where enough of the family look down upon the common folk. "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex runs a hand through her hair and lets out a breath. "I am sorry to burden this on you, though i feel like i can talk to you. And have less the feeling you have such high or pressing expectations of me."
Vek et al
She pulls out a deck of trumps that are unfamiliar to her. Pulling one out she reaches into it and comes back with a large bottle of wine. "I was fanatical about pleassing people when i was young. Obsessed really. Trying to be everything for anyone. Not just siblings and father, but exqueens, nobles, even staff. I was so powerfully determined to please people and so maddingly certain i couldn't that i started changing around people. Shapechanging. I began to learn the trick of it. No one taught me. I just started realizing i could do it. Facial features, smiles, little things. Fingers, toes. Some of the changes occurred when i was desperately trying to please someone...ah.. well... personally, you know.. Suddenly my fingers were longer, i was more flexible, accommodating.. In time i learned to control it. So much so that my appearace became what it is today and stayed that way. I got over being the wall-flower in court"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Looking at the large bottle of wine being pulled in Alex feels quite a story will follow. And it does. With growing eyes she listens yo Flora. Looking almost worried to her. Shaking her head lightly. "That must have been so rough for you to grow up in such a way. To feel forced to even change yourself to fulfill that which seems not obtainable. " Looking Flora over with a soft smile "At least noone can say you are a wallflower in court. As far as i know the guards and elites speak high of you, as a kind and just person and one not to piss off." Alex looks down at her hands and thinks. "So you say.. it is unhealthy to keep forcing yourself to please others. Less you might change or even loose yourself?"
Vek et al
"There is a differance between obsessing to please people and being pleasant while doing one's job."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex tilts her head. "Well yes of course. " She stays silent a moment then drinks of her glass. Putting it down she looks at Flora again "So your job, how did you come by it? Did you pick? Was it assigned to you? Are you happy with it? "
Vek et al
"Each of my siblings has strengths and weaknesses. Mine is diplomacy it turns out."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"I see but did you choose it? Do you enjoy your job? Do you ever wonder if this is what you should be remaining to do? Or do you ever feel trapped? " Looking down at her hands again she continues to ramble. "Or is it never a question, because you are loyal to the family the crown and the people and this is what is expected... whatever others say. Is the staying kind and illusion of control for others or also for yourself?" She looks up blushing as she realizes she rambles. "I mean to ask, are you happy with you given or chosen function and job?"
Vek et al
"Am I happy? I am the King's sister and chief of diplomatic affairs. I know more about the political affairs of a thousand worlds. I sleep in shadow every night living extra time allowing me to read and relax. I have been you g as you are now. I do what I like a d that happens to be good for Amber "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Looking up Alex smiles her soft smile. " i see, good to know. Thank you. " Taking a long sip of her wine she allows herself time to think. "You made a thing you like to do, work for yourself, and allowing some time to relax. Perhaps i should make it work for myself as well."
Vek et al
"I don't think anyone assumes you will do the job for a thousand years. Or even a hundred. But even Julian took time out to explore shadow. He would return with new trophies, new rangers, new enemies. He isn't as showing as Gerard though. He didn't invite the family out to Castle Arden to show of his taxidermy. Hell, Castle Arden wasn't even common knowledge. The Rangers were half a personality cult. A more dedicated half then Gerard, Caine, even benedict have. As we saw when he left, a third of the rangers followed him and a third of the rangers quit the forests when his personality stopped effecting them. Duncan isn't as dynamic as Jules>"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex shrugs "What i've heard there are enough people believing i can't do it at all. So for that reason as well i can't quit." She then looks up apologetic "I mean... i do love it. And i know i can do it. Duncan fully trusts me that i can and will do the job. And i will! It is an honor to serve Arden and with that Amber and the Crown. And mom raised me to be a soldier and a leader." Plucking at her nails Alex says in a softer tone. "But that also means that is the only things i've seen in my short life. Which is getting more obvious by the days." Looking up with a half smile and pull of her shoulder "Perhaps that is my strength, i can focus on my job. " A little chuckle "And Duncan not ss dynamic... well yeah. No. Not want to say anything which might put him in bad daylight."
Vek et al
She shakes her head, "I want to laugh but i also don't want to hurt your feelings. When i say no one expects you to hold the job for a century its not because everyone expects you to fail. Its obvious that you are being given a chance to train in a role, to train new people, to establish a powerbase and there are few positions like that in Amber. You are influencing uncountable shadows. With Adren losing 2/3s of its forces having a new face for new rangers was a necessity. There may be a number of Second Wardens after you leave the role but they will just be following the practices you set down. The new rangers will remember you as their commander. Duncan will command the loyalty of the old timers because they stayed for Arden and Amber. The other 2/3 are coming under the banner on your watch. That 2/3 will train rangers after you leave and they will train them the way YOU taught them. To that 2/3 Duncan will always be the aloof old man, like Julian was. I think you misunderstand the reasons you were given this opportunity. Bind those rangers to you body and soul. Then, no matter where you go and what you do, they will always retain a loyalty to you. Few in Amber have that kind of following. I don't. Benedict doesn't. Gerard does. Caine does. Oddly enough Bleys does and Corwin did. Few others"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex looks at Flora with a frown. As new information dawns on her. "Hmmm i see. Would Duncan see it that way? And Random? He said many weren't happy with me in the position... " She lets out a breath. "I live to much for the approval of others i think. And i misunderstand because noone told me. I was only told by Random many were against it. And by Duncan he perse wanted me. Now i can't let them down. Mom raised me to be undyingly loyal and faithful to Amber. And now hearing your side just frightens me. I can't have people following my ways! I do not have a way... i.. just do i guess."
Vek et al
She laughs, "The best just do it their way. You were trained by Fres. Trained by Julian. Trained by Benedict. Trained by Duncan. Your way will do. Does Duncan see it that way? Yes. Why do you think he spoke to Random about it? Julian put the idea in Random's head when you were 15. I hear Julian put the kybosh on your romance with Duncan but it wasn't because you were cousins. It was because one day you would follow him as Second Warden. Benedict rushed you into Rasak earlier then most troops not because you are of the blood. But becasue he knew you had a job to do. Julian was going to give Duncan an extended leave so you should spend a decade as Second. Turned out he is the one who left. Don't live for the approval of these people. You have that. Live for your passions. Whatever you bring to the role will be better for it. For example...." mt "For example ..Your little friend has awoken the sleeping weyr of psuedodragons. As I said they were a passion a long time ago. But they live longer then their mates some time and they sleep off their grief. Now they rise to emulate you. They are seeking the rangers, not the dragons only. Your 2/3 may soon have psuedodragon companions as old ones take new friends and the little queens lay new clutches. Because of that one of my dear friends that few other royals remember has spoken about taking service in the non-military rangers to be the maid of queens for the psuedodragons. When she comes to you, take her. She is a greater force then she knows. You and she will be good friends. She will serve you well."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Emulate me... it seems hard to believe. But then again i see myself still as a soldier serving, not a leader. I need to have my mindset change a bit. Though i do not want to stand above others. For that will not do any troop good. To serve a near god-like being. " She drinks a good long sip of her wine and nods. "I get it i think. This was planned. Perhaps not fully this way, but it was planned. Thinking about it that way is more soothing to my mind. It means i do not have to fight to prove my worth i only have to show they were right." She laughs. "I know i have issues and i try to work with them to make myself a good addition to family and the service of Amber and its people. " "And i'll show a daughter of Brand does not have to be mad...even with an Abyssal mark."
Vek et al
"Dear, may I suggest something? A small thing? "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods "Of course i asked you for your views and opinions. Please."
Vek et al
"Every so often, every other day maybe, pick 3 or 4 of your new rangers and bring them to Sea View Gardens for a meal. A lunch, a mid morning. Maybe for vigil, yes, Vigil, around 3 am. Pop in, have coffee and biscuits. Se View is always open. It will build comradeliness. Maybe once a shift, you meet with officer, bring them to Sea View. You will build loyalty among them as they know you favor them. You will be seen with them by others diners and they will know you have forces. Gerard does it. He visits a ship and brings its captain, First mate, and quartermaster to Sea View. It raises their visibility. Improves their loyalty. And it shows the flag to anyone in Sea View who might have ill-intentions."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods liking the idea. "That sounds brilliant. See those things i wouldn't know but as you say it, it sounds perfectly logical. I like it. Thank you. And if it will imporve their standing as well. Also helps them. " She smiles "I'll call ahead to make sure to have a table reserved. Thank you." Pushing her red curls behimd her ear she grins "So hearing this from you tells me thay quite some knew beforehand of my heritage. That more have the idea i can be of use. Giving me all possibilities to show it. That i shouldn't stress as much and do as i can. As that is exactly that what people expect... And i won't be stuck in this job. I love it... i am just noticing i am missing out." Sipping her wine she thrn laughs "And according to Clarissa i am highly uneducated and not raised to my potential as Regorian royalty.." ..she rolls her eyes. "Though i'd love to see it one day."
Vek et al
"No you will not call ahead. We will pick a table you like and it will be set and reserved. Hmmmmm know just the one!!! Beleriand Entwood. A gift to Oberon from the Ents of a Beleriand world. Sits 12 easily for meals, 20 coffee or drinks.. Has a natural indentation Oberon used to use. Margot has been pushing me to use it since Eric was king but it didn't fit till now. It will be used by only people who have your permission..Rangers... many rangers come and go from the castle on a daily basis. It will be used only by rangers and when you come they move aside. Whoever you bring will be known. People will ask, 'Who is the dark haired one with the Warden today?' It will be excellent. You pick the location but I think Mid to the north near the edge. Your back to the sea. When its placed we will make a point of you inviting the King to sit at the table whenever he wishes. Just like Gerard and his ship's wheel table and that wretched niece of mine Maylon and her Chaos table. Alex gets a bit of Flora's expertise andexcitement about her job and its intricacies.
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex stands up wanting to hug Flora but stops after the first step not knowing if that is a way to approach her aunt properly.. she is clearly visibly in doubt. She then stands straight and smiles wide. "Thank you so much! You are such a great help thank you for taking your time and sharing your expertise with me."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Still keeping a polite distance she smiles "While we are on the subject advice from expertise. Any advice on how to deal with my Regorian side of the family? Especially Clarissa? Or should i ask Fiona this?"
Vek et al
Flora frowns, "Ok, don't do this every time.. but on occasions.. Julian did it back in Eric's time and it went over well. The Rangers have a Huntsman's Feast every so often. I am sure you have attended a lot. I hear they are impromptu. After a good hunt a few manticores will be stripped out and cooked almost whole. Buscuits and onions and forest provender made in cast iron. Enough to feed an army. Ive been to more then a few back when Julian and I ...ah...hunted together.. This one warn me about. Your nad the Rangers show up and put a Huntsman's Feast out on one of the serving tables. Come an easly weekend dinner shift. People will devour it, adore it, and,, most importantly, talk about it. We'll make sure Random and Vialle are there.. "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Of course, sounds perfect! Before i would do something like that i'll communicate this with you, you have a way better view on the timing. But if it helps the rangers and brings a smile to people. I am all for it!" She thinks. "Perhaps even invite my grandmother Clarissa... perhaps she might see me in a better or more capable light."
Vek et al
"If I were you I would stay clear of Clarissa. I was born the year Clarissa was taken from the throne. Right after the Siege of Bunny Free. I grew up hearing stories of her and seeing her during the times she returned to scream and yell at Oberon. A bad time. Then she disappeared till she just returned recently. She is crazy and cruel and too powerful for her own good. I had a conversation with her at Sea View about the Regorian section she wanted., 40 tables no one could sit at unless she or one of her twp princelings where there. She did not like my answer to her demand of the reason I gave."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Ah staying clear would be difficult. It is clear she has plans as well and now she knows of me i know somewhere she has involved me in them. Big or small plans. Though i made it clear that i am not easily to be pushed over and that i take my duty to Amber very seriously." She then leans forward with a grin. " but you did make me curious, what was her reaction? What can you tell me of her? Anything could help me prepare for future encounters."
Vek et al
"Tell her you are busy and turn your back on her walking away. He craps kittens when people turn and walk away from her. She made her demand and I laughed and said no. When she demanded, using her titles I said, 'Excuse me, but I'm busy. The Regor table will be available as of tomorrow morning. ' I then puta 6 person table next to the kitchen door over there, after i cleared the space of brooms and mops. She was so furious she took her Table spell and cast it in the Library. Crispy was extra crispy. Through in a video arcade too i hear."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex laughs. "Ooooh now i get why she called insults after me when i walked away from her in the library. She was busy with her usual i was lesser, my mom raised me wrong and i was not using my potential.. got.tired of it said i had duties to attend to and hid in my library nook. She did call some nasty things... eh noone who once had power likes to lose grip. " She grins at Flora. "I can absolutely applaud you for the way you handled that. That must have just been pure gold to see the fuming. " Sitting back she swirls her wine in her glass. "Do you have an idea why Clarissa choose now to agree with the embassy and to fulfill it herself?"
Vek et al
Flora looks at Alex strongly, judging her. Trying to decide soomething. A ip or three of wine helps her think. Flora leans in and whispers, "Rosagara has been seen. Its in the possession of the primal Squirrel of all creatures. Several oracles suggest the Sword is either in Amber or on its way here. It was sighted at Diago Raks on the Trail to Tazilwere. Random thinks she agreed to the Embassy in order to be in possition to get her hands on the blade."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Leaning to Flora she nods listening. "Ah yes. That, basically Clarissa told me flat out it was to me to get it and bring it to Regor. " She rolls her eyes. "If i would even get my hands on such a thing... where more are after. I would not just hand it to anyone who shouted the hardest... so many might need it. Or have a good cause for it. And i feel Regor is doing just fine also with them being a squiggle.... i feel them getting stronger would only call forth future wars and with that loss of innocent life and shedding of unnecessary tears. " She shakes her head leans back and sips a few drinks. Letting out a sigh "I find it hard to believe what oracles and sightings might be right and which are just wishful thinking and falls faith. " A slight chuckle "Perhaps next time i see the Unicorn i should stop and ask her opinion."
Vek et al
If you ask her to do something about the situation i know what she will say....
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex looks up with a questioning look. "Oh? What would she say? Though I would ask advice. Not so.much to fix things. That is our duty."
Vek et al
"She'l say NIEGH!!!!!" Flora laughs outloud
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex looks stunned then laughs heartily with Flora... it was a good joke. She pours the glasses full again "Right... yes no argument there. " She then falls silent and looks at Flora a good while. With a pleasant and warm smile. Perhaps even enjoying a fun relaxing talk with family. After a while she snaps out of it. "I mean to thabk you still. That one moment i got back from Tazilwere to Amber. Was brought in the room with everyone. You kept your arm around me. Made me feel less lost in the whole chaotic whirlwind of news and talk. So thabk you for being there. And being here!" She raises her glass
Vek et al
"Well I knew from the begining that you were a very special person with great potential and that eventually i would find a way to squeeze every drop of advantage out of you for myself." She laughs, "Caine actually said that to Vance when he came to Amber the first time. " She laughs again. "Vance said,' Please tell me you are not in charge of anything." Caine went pale. They don't like each otehr to this day."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Hm that sounds.... a bit pretentious of Caine... sure he might be in charge of his own thing but to lay claim so... and Vance doesn't seem the type to be told that. Caine hasn't spoken to me. Perhaps for the better. He only gave me scowls, but i heard thats normal. Wven as his sons elite not a word. But that to seems normal." She thinks "Vance on the otherhand. He did help me or well layed down plenty of warnings. Which i am grateful for. I suppose everyone has some opinions about the others and i am sure there are those who are not a fan of me. Be it who i am, who my parents are and such."
Vek et al
"Caine has an edge to him but he is the best judge of character i ever met. He understands weaknesses and strengths of a person after a brief conversation. He is never really what he seems to be. He was raised to be that way"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods "Oh i have no hard feelings to him. It was not a complaint. If there was something he had to say to me i'm sure he would. And i am certain if he did not trust me back in my elite days to protect his son he would have done something about it." "I know all of your generation had it hard. The children of Oberon. He really formed and used his children to what he deemed was needed instead of letting each grow up the way they should. Then again.... mom really pushed me a way as well. But i am not upset about that. I am a good archer, not as fantastic as you but you need goals in life right? And i was really prepared for this job." Sipping her wine she looks hesitant to ask something else.... then figuring the hell with it she carefully starts. "Aunt Flora, as woman to woman. I need advice about men. Duncan showed a side of him when we were in Fane of Zilla which worried me. And i am not as experienced in relationships.... Duncan was my first.... and well yeah only one short relationship in shadow, and now back with Duncan. But he got overly protective, aggressive, picking fights. How can i say to him i am not a damsel in distress that needs protecting even in Chaos.... or is this a family trait?"
Vek et al
She smiles, "Men are much alike across shadow. Checking on that is one of the reasons I became one. I've never been with Duncan, though i offered a few times. He tends to be mostly solitary. There are few rumors concerning him over the centuries. Julian went through the female rangers I hear. Julian also made frequent use of the fey that have several races that are particularly lusty. He obviously had a relationship with Cyrene. As for Duncan Ive heard he abstained from the fey enough that it was commented on as if he had a dislike of them. He denied it of course but he didn't visit the Slyvan waters or their orgy hills."
Vek et al
"As for the damsel in distress thing, hard to say. Different men respond to that. And i wouldn't rule out the effects of chaos. Ive known men who thought they could protect me despite me being an Amberite. Others who treated me as an equal on the warfield. I don't know Duncan well enough to be sure about him."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods. "I see. Well Duncan is an odd one. But then agajn what do i know. He is my only boyfriend ever." She chuckles lightly. "So he was not interested in anyone... hmm.. i know he had relationships in shadow. And ours is as such that we have priority to eachother but in shadow its free gsme what i get..." Alex shrugs. "Not that i am even going to check what he does out in shadow when he is gathering people." Sipping her wine. "I'll be in Arden doing what is expected of me."
Vek et al
"I know he has had affairs with several nobles from Golden Circle worlds. A couple long term. But.. ok...its family gossip... There are a few men who are, not exactly celibate, but do not have casual relations. For people as long lived as we a serious relationship might be separated by decades or centuries. Benedict is one of those.. He fell hard in his youth and there is really only one woman who can wrap him around her finger. And they have had numerous times together in Amber and shadow. But its generally not spoken of outside the family. He tends to snap if someone below our status alludes to it."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Well if one has an basically unending life, when it comes to age. Of course affairs might happen. Or short relationships well anything would be short concidered the time frame. " Alex thinks sips her wine and frowns. "So a good chance at tjme Duncan and i would fall apart as well. We might find different paths, different goals in life... maybe one day i do want to see more in shadow then the armies and wars i've seen so far. Since that was mostly training. Maybe Duncan will one day find a beautiful young lady that enchants him and swoops him away.." Sipping again she thinks silently "You know... that thought doesn't even upset me."
Vek et al
Flora says, "You area musician I understand? Practice other arts? "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods. "Drawing amd painting. Oh and recently learned to form glass."
Vek et al
"At some point lay down the blade. Find a nice peaceful world and spend a decade on those arts. It will calm you down and relax you. I play golf. Professionally in a number of worlds. It relaxes me. Acted in movies too. Ive some funny stories about them but beside my point. Take time to do something you like, away from Amber and away from bloody business. Lots of peaceful shadows out there."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex frowns. "Away from Amber? The longest i've been away is when i learned to make glass art. But that wasn't long for Amber time and was a year for me. After that i had to return. Felt guilty to stay away." She smiles. "When my term is up as second Warden i can do this. Now i am expected to fulfill my duty."
Vek et al
"Duty, smutty....Julian left Adren for years at a time. So did Duncan. Gerard, caine, plenty of ways to do your duty and work on your relaxation too."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
With a clearly shocked face she looks at Flora. "By our sense of duty we show loyalty to that and those of importance... And Julian is also one that just up and left the Rangers and Arden when he heard Adagalask was open again. He dropped everything. Damaged alot of trust. Especially when Duncan had to do more work away in Shadow for the weyrs. Anyway... as long as Duncan is busy with that i have to stay. The Rangers trust me. And don't want to be another warden that just ups and leaves." Alexandra Dejana Mira After her little rant she sits a bit more relaxed and rubs her temple with her free hand. "Sorry, i can get worked up about things. I hear what you say. And i should allow myself time. I just hate to dissapoint... and i am relaxed... well not as tense as people make me.out to be..." Sitting up straight again. "But then again even besides the Ranger and Warden things enough is happening which i'm finding out. Laravella for one... that is not done yet... and might cause issues in the future."
Vek et al
"You know....if i chose to focus my willpower on you, I could make you forget your duty and take to the road as a itinerant guitar player and glass blower till someone told you the tale of the Nine Princes or my favorite version of the Black Road war, the tale of the Five Princesses."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
With a look of shock she stares at Flora. "You wouldn't.... right?? " She then laughs it off as a joke. Of course she wouldn't. "And besides. I would have more luck as a violin player and singer then guitar player. Duncan plays guitar. " She adds with a wink. "But the tale of the five Princesses.. don't know if i've ever read that one." To add to the joke she grins. "Oh oh or make me a traveling artist fire eater.. since fire can't harm me anyway." She waves her hand. "But no i get it. I should take time for myself. And i will.... in time. I am on vacation now right? And i am still planning to at least visit Hepplewhite's and say hello to Zachary."
Vek et al
"Good call. Violin and singer who over tips and occasionally does glass work it is." She looks comically wide-eyed at her. "Oh its a great series.. Written by a woman named Ragina Zelazney. Its told by the main character, Florence, to her surprise daughter Melinda, after a great battle at the edge of the Abyss. Its all about how Flo spent years trying to keep her arrogant brothers from destroying the universe.. It ends when she saves her sister Diedre and pushes her brother Brand into the Abyss. Great series..There is a second series written from the point of view of Melinda but i don't recommend it." Alex notices her hand opening and closing for no reason and she can't seem to stop it.
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex laughs at Flora her comical look and shakes her head. Hearing about the books she nods "Might have to read them when i have a bit of time again in the library. I will put it on my way to long personal to do list." Noticing her hand she looks confused at it. Then looks at Flora with a raised eyebrow and a questioning look. "Trying to make a point?"
Vek et al
"Yes. There are many ways of looking at things and many ways to do your duty. Training to not let someone like me force you to do something like that can be seen as duty as well. I am hardly the mindbender my brothers like Brand, Bleys and Benedict are. "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Okey i don't follow. But doing your duty means doing what is expected of you. And lets be honest i am hardly in the league range of my father, Bleys or Benedict... i am painfully aware of that. Arlo and Vance taught me a lesson as well with needing to be stronger and not mess with an abyssal mark.... " she sighs. .."But i doubt i'll get anywhere as strong in willpower or anything as those older then me. All i can do is impress them" "Anyway i'll try to do my best at relaxing. I can work that in somewhere. "
Vek et al
"Doing your duty isn't doing what is expected of you. Thats doing as you are told. Duty to Amber, to Arden, to anything, is doing what is best for it. Sometimes that may not be what is expected of you or even what you are told. If Random decided that burning Arden to the ground and installing continental agribusiness and he ordered you to start the fire, is it your duty to burn Arden to the ground? Or do you tell him to fuck off and explain exactly how he should do that?"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Wanting to make a point she opens her mouth and holds up her finger but then sits back again thinking.... "Well i am certain King Random knows perfectly well how he can best fuck off but yes i will not just burn down Arden. I will on the other hand inform on King Random his mental state... " She chuckles "Okey i get it... its just difficult mindset to change. To hear people look up at me, and emulate my ways... it is very different from following orders... though i never did that blindly." She inhales deep and nods "It is better for my function if i take care of myself. Next tjme i am invited to take a relaxing bath or something i'll say yes... "
Vek et al
"By the way...Duty might mean you burn Arden down. If it is in the best interest of Amber. "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods "Of course i've read the stories. I know sometimes a horrible thing is needed for the greater good."
Vek et al
"Finndo took the throne at a time when Amber needed someone to make decisions and Oberon was gone. There is no public record of what happened except that when Oberon deigned to return he wanted to kill Finndo and Finndo fled into shadow with his wife. Whatever happened, he did his duty to Amber, not to his king. Now he works for Random..."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Doing your duty is not always something that would be liked by all. It is something i have wondered alot of times. Would i make a decision which would make people hate me. But would make the greater good safe and secure..... i think inwould. Then again i would also without problem give my life, it is something i had sworn when becomming a guard and elite. " She laughs "If i would have to smack Random on his head because he made a grievous mistake. And he would have my head for that. No problem. As long ad the people are safe... " Starting to braid a strand of hrt hair she smiles a half smile.

"It reminds me of a talk i had with Harla and with the vision the primal pattern gave me....

Heh guess its the paladin type in me." "But i cannot save people or protect them if i am not doing well myself... "
Vek et al
"Good. now. Since i am here.. Maybe i should visit my son. His people here will be very surprised to have me show up. I would go, but I sort of dread seeing his mother."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Why would you dread seeing his mother? Didn't you two part on the best of terms? I'm sure Zach would love to see you. And it is our next stop anyway. " She smiles and pours some more wine in Flora her glass. "I can be there for moral support. Or perhaps i can distract his mother so you can have some quality time."
Vek et al
"No, there are people in our lives we can't seem to say no to. Zachary's mother is one of them for me. I wouldn't want to step backwards and return to her side for a century. Not just now...."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex smiles. "Ah i see. Okey i get that. Well the invitation is open. I still have to check if Zach is even going to be around. Last time i spoke he was still travelling around." Drinking her wine Alex looks beyond Flora just staring a bit. When refocussing she smiles "Thank you again for the talk and your wisdom. And show of manipulation" she waves her hand. "Lots to think about. And less to do " She laughs a bit "Shall i call Zachary now? Chances are he might take my call. He did have an standing job offer for me."
Vek et al
She chuckles, "Don't tell him I am here. Should be amusing"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods Searches through her trumps and finds Zach's. She positions herself in such a manner that Flora won't be visible. She then focusses on the card tk make contact.
Vek et al
"Hello...Who?"
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex smiles. "Hello, it's me, Alex. Checking in how you are and if you'll be in Alamond soon?"
Vek et al
"Alex? Really? What a surprise! Its a pleasure to hear from you. Hmmm I have a show, a 3 week stand,.. about.. ah 5 days in Alamond.. call it 2 days in Amber time. "
Alexandra Dejana Mira
"Well surprise then! Yeah i am on mandatory vacation with Duncan. We were first im Fane of Zilla and now in Alamond. We'll be here for a bit... it seems people think i am tense and need a vacation." She rolls her eyes. "But 5 days sure we can keep ourselves busy for as long. We'll see you at your place then right?"
Vek et al
"You are in Alamond? Really? Hilarious. Where did you ....ah... time later. Alright. I'll wire ahead and have quarters ready at Hepplewhite. I'll be there quickly."
Alexandra Dejana Mira
Alex nods "Yes yes, like i said... forced vacation. Well Duncan and i wanted to jump out of a plane or two and then we'll be at Hepplewhite's. See you there." Alex carefully looks beyond the contact to Flora if she wants anything to add.
Vek et al
She smiles wickedly and lets you close the trump. She decides to travel Aloamond incognito. It being her first time. And lets you and Duncan go off for your vacation promising to meet up at Hepplewhites
Alexandra Dejana Mira
When they have finished their wine and talks she then looks for Duncan. As they were still going to do some crazy stuff in air stunts and airplanes. Except for water.... no open water.