Kanna OOCly okidoke.  When last we saw our heroic band in Earth-Realm,
Kanna was leaning on ruka, tired, but okay.  Beowulf was not so tired.

John asks, "OOC Yep.  And you'd just finished fixing Earth-Realm. 
What's up next?"

Beowulf says, "OOC Hm. Had the problems with Jade been mapped? IIRC the
only one we took care of was the dragon."

Kanna OOCly says, "Dunno what others there were.  At the moment, I think
Kanna's too worn out to worry about other major ones... she can have
Gaby scan for remainders in Jade (and The Retreat, and The Realm Of The
Undead), but they can be dealt with later in fast time.  Right now, she
wants more to see thropan and the little furball, and try to figure out
how to explain the 'hi, I own your shadow' bit, as she's not sure but
she thinks Onoli is suspicious, and prolly Gina/Penny are as well."

Kanna OOCly says, "(well, okay, this young the kid wouldn't -be- a
furball, but hey. *wl* )"

Beowulf OOCly hmms. Character interaction is good, but I don't want any
trouble coming back and biting us on the butt. Compromise -- have Gaby
scan for major threats before we go off and collapse?

John says, "OOC Hmm, now I'm trying to remember if it was ever shown
what sort of dwelling place the Edge Guard have.  Or if they even have
some kind of house :)"

Kanna OOCly Ask her nicely, yeah... They're bboth smaller pocket
shadows, effectively...

Kanna OOCly says, "As I recall... they tend to reside in inns, since
their jobs take them around alot . I presume their familes live in The
Retreat proper, which is where they trained, etc, but nothing would stop
them from having homes on Jade proper."

Kanna OOCly says, "(if they wanted such, etc.)"

Kanna OOCly says, "In the comics, no, it technically hasn't been shown. 
Even the "Edge Guard" miniseries, which did a lot of stuff in the
Retreat, didn't show their residences."

John says, "OOC I'm trying to think of where exactly they're keeping the
baby :)"

Motoko exclaims, "OOC:  Gwoooooooooooo!"

Kanna OOCly says, "I would presume, all things being equal, in the
Retreat. (esp. since Thropan makes the devices that -allow- them to gate
around between Jade and Earth Realm).  Unless he and Lian had developed
a 'Special Place' on Jade, apart from the Kanna/Lian home."

John says, "OOC Righto, that makes sense.  A nice little house in the
Retreat."

Kanna OOCly nods.

========
========

You page, "(the "Odd Thing" to happen to the Realm of the Undead...
rampant flower growth. :)" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Hehs!" to you.

========================================
========================================

Alrightie, Gabby will be busy looking for any threats that need fixing
while y'all go visit the munchkin.

Kanna thanks her sister profusely, for the replacement sun thing, and
for the scanning thing... and just for being her sister and all.  'Cause
she wants to.

Kanna also asks Gina, et. al. if they want to come along, as getting all
the various and sundry explinations done at once might be more useful.

They agree to come along, as they'd like to know what the hell just
happened.

Beowulf just sort of fades into the background... these are Kanna's
friends, he doesn't know them that well, and they deserve their time
together.

For the moment, anyway.

Kanna nods, sighs, and stands up, supported by Ruka and pulling out her
trump of Thropan.  "Righto... time to check in with the Edge Guard."

Thropan takes the call.

He's on a porch somewhere or another.  "Hello, Kanna," he says.

Kanna smiles slightly.  "Hey, Thropan... we're done here.  Where are you
right at the moment?"

He says, "We're at an inn, getting some food after getting back from the
Western Continent.  How are you doing?"

Kanna hehs.  "In the mood for food and sleep... but also feeling that I
need to give you guys the explination you're owed for what's happened
before I partake of such."

Thropan nods and holds out a hand.  "Come on through, then."

Kanna gestures for the others to take hands to patch into the trump
connection, and then takes Thropan's hand.

Beowulf joins in to get pulled through.

He pulls your mob through onto the porch of an inn in the Seer's
Hamlet.

=====
=====

Kanna OOCly says, "Seer's Hamlet. *wg*  The Retreat is different. *wg*"

John says, "OOC doh.  Yes."

Kanna OOCly says, "But Seer's Hamlet is cool."

Kanna OOCly says, "(unless you're saying they're in the Retreat now.)"

John says, "ooc no, I meant the hamlet"

Kanna OOCly nods then.

=====
=====

Kanna lets out a long sigh as she and the rest get pulled through, and
inhales the aromas of good food.

Beowulf sighs as a little tension seems to drop out of him, then sniffs
and raises both eyebrows in interest.

Kanna quirks a slight smile.  "You got a table big enough for all of us?
 And... reasonably private?"

There is lots of good food to be had, for the hungry, which is a lot of
your crew, as you were all flying about in space for hours.  Thropan
says, "Well, inns really aren't the best place for privacy, I'm afraid,
although there's not too many other people here today."

Beowulf grins. "And minor cooking facilities? I admit, making up a batch
of garlic sticks and red sauce would help me relax right now."

Kanna hrms.  "Food first.  Then we can trump to someplace more private,
like mine and Li--... my house."  She sighs.  "it'll give me a chance to
collect my thoughts."

Thropan nods.  "Alright."

Beowulf sighs. "Yes, that would be appropriate."

You soon can all get stuffed as much as you want, assuming you want lots
of beef and potatoes and onions, anyway :)

Kanna sits with Ruka, and orders Beef and Potatoes, at least, and eats
heartily, albeit rather more subdued than her usual wont.

Your rather large crowd keeps the servers hopping as you all eat and
relax.

Beowulf sits on the other side of Kanna, not *quite* feeling comfortable
around all of these people he barely knows, but making an effort to be
friendly.

Once you finish eating, who all are you inviting back to your house?

Kanna looks to be getting a somewhat better mood as she fills herself
up.  Finally, she finishes her meal, and occasionally smiling
reassuringly to Beowulf.  Hm... Gina, Thropan, Onoli (Gina and Thropan
-- most direct contact with myself and Lian and the concepts of Shadow,
Onoli since he runs the edge guard and I think was suspicious). 
Doubtful Ace and Penny need to attend, as they can get info from Gina
later (ditto with Brianna -- I dunno how much she got 'volunteered' for
Lian's things).  Don't think Tirga, Sheila, Gar need to come either, but
that's Onoli's call, etc.

======
======

John says, "OOC The fewer NPCs for me to track, the better :)"

Beowulf OOCly nods. :)

Kanna OOCly hehs.  Right.  Gina, Thropan, Onoli, and Ruka.  That should
be the most you need to worry 'bout. :)

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "Presumably Bey's also in there. ^_^" to you.

======
======

You head back to your place with Gina, Thropan, and Onoli (and Ruka).

Kanna makes sure that Penny, Ace, and Brianna get back to earth-realm
courtesy of Gaby Express.  And Tirga/Gar/Sheila can make their own way
around Jade.  And of course, Bey comes along. :)

Kanna goes and opens up the house, quietly, and verifies the power's
still on, since it hadn't been that long since she had been their last. 
The lights that turn on illuminate the Living/Dining area, and the
kitchen... noteably, to beowulf, there's a quite a few paintings
standing and pretty much dried on easels.  Thropan recognizes them as
sights from their trip to Cathuria.

Beowulf looks at the paintings with interest. "Nice. Where was this
from?"

Kanna smiles at Ruka, and plops down on the couch.  "Anyway, make
yourselves at home..." She smiles more fondly at Bey's question.  "Oh...
Cathuria.  I'm afraid I didn't -quite- get the essance of the place...
but I tried."  She blushes a tad.

Beowulf says, "I suspect you succeeded to the point that would matter to
anyone who hasn't been there." He sighs somewhat regretfully. "I would
have loved to come... but duty came first, and unfortunately ran in a
different direction than your duty."

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "There a pic of Juri with Merehallow there, I presume?"
to you.

You page, "Can't see why Kanna wouldn't. *wg* :)" to The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Yah. Unfortunately, the moment to nod meaningfully at
it already passed. :)" to you.

You page, "It's mostly landscapes and environment pics, but there's the
pic of them at the Ramparts Of The World flying with Millerna, etc." to
The_Prof.

You page, "And some 'the gang in Cathuria' paintings." to The_Prof.

=====
=====

Ruka goes to make some tea for everyone.

Kanna mmms, and nods, sighing.  She smiles as Ruka goes and makes tea.

The rest of your guests sit down and make themselves comfortable.

Kanna says, "But... such is the way the worlds work, I'm afraid."  She
smiles as she accepts her tea from Ruka, and sips it.

Beowulf smiles, a bit wistfully. "Yes... I suppose so. Though we also
had some fun in Mobius' shadow; you *have* to meet the Mystery Men
someday." He grins. "Felt almost like home, in a lot of ways."

Ruka serves everyone tea, then sits down.

Gina says, "So, do we get to find out what is going on now, hmm?"

Kanna lets the warmth percolate through her body, waits for the group to
get settled with their drinks, and then chuckles.  "You'll have to take
me there to meet them, Beowulf.  They sounded interesting."  She takes
another sip, and then hrms, staring down at her mug.  "Yes."

Beowulf waits for Kanna to begin, ready to help as necessary.

Kanna looks up, looks -at- Gina, Thropan, and Onoli, eye-to-eye.  "Lian
and I already explained part of the nature of Shadow to Gina a long
while back... and Thropan, I'm pretty sure you would've picked up stuff
from Lian during your time together."  She smiles slightly.  "Onoli, I'm
not sure how much you would've picked up from us chatting over the
years... so I'll give something of a precis of how the universes appear
to work... because, sadly, the explinations Lian and I gave you two,"
she looks at Gina and Thropan again, "were somewhat... abbreviated."

Beowulf just raises an eyebrow at that.

Gina frowns a bit.  Thropan nods; you have the impression he may have
pieced together more than you would have known.

Kanna looks down at the coffee table, and idly traces with her index
finger.  "Anyway.  The universe, as we know it, are defined by two major
principles... Order, represented by the Pattern and the Unicorn on one
end... and Chaos, represented by the Logrus and the Serpent on the other
end.  Between the two..." She gestures to the middle space, "forms the
infinities of universes that we tend to call, regrettably, as 'Shadow'. 
Every possibility of every stripe exists within it, both wonderous and
horrible... and those born from Amber, of the lands of Order, or of the
Courts of Chaos, of the lands of Chaos, can gain for themselves, with
the right conditions, the power to walk among them.  People who live in
Shadow can learn equivelant abilities as well... the Nomad Artifacers,
for one, knew the arts, and your mages of Jade can jump between Jade,
Earth-Realm, and the Retreat, etc, without difficulity."

Onoli nods.  "We have always known there were more realms beyond the few
we know."

Beowulf nods. "Many of them were around before the two poles of power --
the Logrus and the Pattern -- were created. From what little Kanna's
said about the Nomad Artificers, I suspect they might date from that
time."

Gina nods.

Kanna nods, and sips her tea.  "There's more to it, though.  Those of us
with the Blood of Amber... or of Chaos... like Beowulf and Myself, have
a tendency to be considered more 'Real' than those of Shadow. 
Personally, I feel that this is somewhat of a fallicy.... everything
exists SOMEWHERE, and all existances are equally valid... but those of
the Blood have a tendency, just by their -existance- in a location, of
making places more 'Real' than they were before."

Gina asks, "What exactly does it mean for something to be 'more real'?"

Beowulf shakes his head. "Damn straight it's a fallacy. There's nothing
more 'real' about you or I... we're just more powerful."

Kanna says, "It means..." She mmms.  "It means, in some ways, it becomes
harder for those with power over Shadow to casually change those
things."

Kanna says, "The places close to Amber are harder to mold without
special items backing you up, and suchlike... while out in Shadow, a
Logrus Master or Pattern Initiate, given time, could affect sweeping
changes casually."

Onoli, Thropan, and Gina all seem rather uncomfortable with that idea.

Kanna says, "But, there's a caveat to places that become 'more real'. 
It becomes harder for others to shape that particular universe..." She
sighs, looking downcast, into her tea.  "... but for those who have
resided there for a period of time, it becomes -easier-."

Onoli says, "So what happened to Jade was caused by something like
that."

Kanna says, "Not that they DO, or -WOULD-... just that the possibility
is there.  And yes.  Exactly."

Kanna says, "Because, due to the fact that I dwelled here for twenty
years... and Lian dwelled here with me for ten years... we became more
'in tune' with Jade, Earth-Realm, the Retreat, etc.  Not even
conciously."

Beowulf says, "As far as we can tell, Onoli, yes." He frowns at Kanna.
"Though I still don't like calling it 'more real'. 'In tune' sounds much
better, yes."

Onoli says, "If one person can be wiped out of existence with a thought
and another cannot, I think calling one more real than the other is
probably an accurate description."  He seems very displeased with this.

Gina says, "So because of this attunement, her death wrecked havoc in
all the realms."

Kanna hehs a bit, softly, at that.  "There's still a bit of debate on
nomenclature, as you can see."  She then sighs again.  "But... because of
mine and Lian's connections to Jade et. al., it appears that Lian's
-death-... likely due to the Spikard she was wearing... caused a
backlash back upon Jade and Earth-Realm itself."  She sighs.  "Mind you,
it's not -that- easy.  I'm somewhat overstating the situation a bit. 
But yes, Gina."

Kanna says, "I haven't heard of a person's death having an effect -this-
way, but given that the spikard... the magic ring... she was wearing at
the time, was destroyed... who knows what would have happened."

Kanna says, then, in a small voice, "Because, as it should be noted...
even those of us with the blood can die."

Beowulf closes his eyes in pain. "Yes."

Kanna says, "It may be more difficult... we may be longer lived... but
in the end, the reaper comes for all."

Onoli asks, "Perhaps.  Now I am worried of what may happen if you die as
well."

Beowulf takes a deep breath and lets it out. "We'll try to keep that
from happening." He smiles sadly across at Ruka, then looks back at
Onoli. "Though from what we've been able to tell, Lian's death was...
especially ugly."

Gina asks, "Does this sort of thing happen very often?"

Beowulf looks inquiringly at Gina. "What kind of thing?"

Kanna rubs her brow, frustrated.  "I don't know.  Perhaps there would be
a backlash, perhaps there would be none at all.  I personally feel it
would be more the latter than the former... if I died, then the
connection would just be cut, and Jade would continue on as it has, as
if I had been just visiting and then departed."

Kanna looks wryly up at Beowulf.  "I think the Death thing, Bey."

Gina says, "People who are...linked to a shadow dying.  I'm wondering if
it's known what normally happens when all the people who are connected
to a shadow die."  She pauses.  "Geez, that sounds callous."

Beowulf swallows. "I don't really know, and I'm not all that eager to
find out." He sighs. "I'm sorry... I lost one of my nephews a few days
ago, as we were trying to fight our way out of a deathtrap. I still feel
responsible for his death."

Kanna mmms.  "In my nearly a century of experienced life, I've only
known three people in the family who have... have died.  My cousin,
Shaft.  My nephew, Moriya.  And Lian.  I don't know what records there
are for the family members in the prior generation, who had shadows
linked to them."

Kanna says, "I don't know what's happened with mechanus, but I intend to
check -that- out soon.  I don't think Moriya had any shadows to his
name.  And Shaft... his was a... special case."  She sighs.

Ruka says, "Very few members of the Royal family have died, and I don't
know if any of them possessed a shadow domain."

Kanna nods, and sips more of her tea.

Gina begins making some notations on her portable computer.  Onoli looks
discontent.  Thropan says, "Has Lian's death had any effect on
Mechanus?"

Kanna says, "As it goes... I have always believed in -interacting- with
a universe in Shadow whenever possible... with participating, with
-living- there, and having a true life, when possible.  I came here to
Jade to train and improve my skills... not to express dominance over the
realms.  There's still a lot about Jade, Earth-Realm, the Retreat, the
Realm of the Undead, that I'm likely -never- to know.  And Julia-sensei
can still kick my butt 95 times out of a hundred." She grins a bit.  "If
you guys teamed up on me, or if Dr. Diggers wanted to eat my brain...
you could probably pull it off without difficulty."

Beowulf says, "Any of us can be destroyed with a thought, Onoli. Myself
no differently than you; it'd just be somewhat more energetic in my
case."

Kanna mms.  "I don't know, Thropan.  On the one hand, she was stronger
tied to Mechanus.  On the other hand, when she finally linked Vector to
its Broken Patterns, he gained control of Mechanus as well.  He may have
been able to weather the changes and aftershocks, I don't know."

Beowulf sighs. "I hope he's all right."

Kanna mms.  "I don't know.  Originally, Vector was designed with pretty
strict constraints... I don't know what Lian's death will do with them,
wether they'll go away or not.  I presume her files would state that."

Kanna sips more tea.

Beowulf sighs. "She did leave behind files?"

Thropan says, "With a large machine like that, it would be pretty easy
for something on the level of all the silver in him turning into cheese
to have very unpredictable and possibly catastrophic effects."

Kanna says, "I'd assume she did... Lian was a logging-hog."  She hrms. 
"There is that, too... but Constructs, while I know the occasional
interesting fact about them thanks to the fact that my sister is one..."
She smiles ruefully at that, "I can't claim to be an expert on their
design and construction.  -Mom- could, I suppose, or Great-Grandpa."

Beowulf hmms. "I'm not sure whether my experiences with Aeris would be
relevant... let me think for a moment."

Kanna reaches over, and squeezes Ruka's hand, breifly.

Gabrielle says, "I'm inclined to think Vector being based around Broken
Patterns means he'll be fine unless something happens to them.  At least
physically."

=========
=========

You page, "[Kanna] <<How'm I doing on the explination front, dear?
*faint smile* I figured that one day I'd have to, but... not anytime
soon.>>" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Ruka replies, <<I'm no expert on the theory of reality,
but I think you put it fairly clearly.>>" to you.

You page, "[Kanna mentally smiles a bit more fully.  <<As long as I'm
honest about it, I suppose things will, in the end work out. *mental
hug* *love you*>>]" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "He nods.  "I hope so."" to you.

=========
=========

Beowulf taps his chin in thought. "I'm guessing that he'll probably be
in good shape, actually, since he's built around those Broken
Patterns... beat me to it, Gabrielle." He smiles slightly at her badge.

Kanna chuckles slightly at that.  "And in some ways, the Nomad Artifacer
construction of Jade should have helped buffer some of the worse effects
that Earth-Realm ... endured."  She sighs.

Beowulf asks, "Someone needs to talk to him soon, though. Aeris hadn't
heard from him earlier, Gabrielle; have you?"

Gabrielle says, "He told me he's trying to sort out all the things he
has to distribute according to Lian's will."

Kanna thinks.  "He'd reported that --- ah." She sighs.

Kanna says, "we'd best deal with that tomorrow.  Before or after
Moriya's funeral."

Beowulf nods. "I don't want to put it off very much... but I think we
will probably have to wait until Moriya's funeral is over."

Kanna nods.  "Hm.  Well... that's the ten copper explination of what
happened, and why... we're still not sure on the details of -Lian's-
death, mind you.  Just that she got four Knights of Hendrake... from
Chaos.. to go and try and explore the Abyss to find my Aunt, the White
Knight... and something must have happened, because I felt her death,
Jade and Earth-Realm were affected, Hoard was destroyed..."

Beowulf sighs and rubs his eyes.

Kanna continues, in a smaller, quiet voice, "... and we found her body. 
But Lian herself, I do not think, was in it anymore."

Kanna looks down at her (now empty) mug, guiltily.

Gina continues typing away.  Onoli broods.  Thropan frowns.  "Reanimated
as an undead?" he asks.

Beowulf nods, his expression grim. "If you see... her body, do not trust
her. It looked like her, but it didn't move like her at all; someone
skilled in fighting should be able to recognize her by that alone."

Beowulf closes his eyes again in pain, then looks sympathetically at
Thropan. "That's probably close enough."

Thropan nods.  "I will remember that," he says sadly.  "Do you think she
is likely to be sent here?"

Kanna says, "I do not know much of the powers of the Abyss, or those who
dwell in it.  It -is- a Power, but the prices it extracts are nearly as
bad as those of the Outsiders.  There are some among them that can be
dealt with fairly... but I know now of few."  She mms.  "That was one of
the reasons we came here, truthfully.  To check.  I made sure to shut
down the ability of Abyss power to reach here... presumably, that would
keep her and any allies from reaching here."

Beowulf says, "I would guess it's a likely place; whoever controls her
body seems to be striking out at the people she knew. But I don't know
if they'll have any way to get here."

Thropan nods.  "Good.  I...I would not like to see Lian again under such
a condition."  He shakes his head sadly.

Kanna reaches over to offer her hand to Thropan.  *q* "nor would I. 
save we did.  That was the first sign that something was wrong."

Beowulf looks at him a little shakily. "I hope you never have to. It was
horrible, watching it come to attack us."

Beowulf says, "At first... I had hoped that they had merely taken
control of her body." He looks pained at having to say this, but
continues anyway. "The more I see, though... the more it looks like
they..." His throat closes for a moment, a tear running down his face.
"Killed her soul, if not her body."

Kanna winces at that, but nods, wordlessly.

Thropan nods.  "The undead cannot be saved, unfortunately, or at least,
I have never heard of such a case."

Beowulf smiles sadly at Thropan. "You're a brave man, Thropan. I know
if... if Lily died, I wouldn't be handling it nearly as well."

Beowulf says, "Her mother, unfortunately..." He pinches the bridge of
his nose. "...is not handling things nearly so well."

Thropan says, "I am not much for crying in public."  He sighs.  "It will
come, when I am alone."  He looks up.  "What is wrong with Wasyuu?"

Kanna murmurs.  "I know Dr. Diggers still seeks to free his father,
but... he is more skilled in the mystic arts than I am, by far."  She
sighs.  "And I know if I lost Ruka..." she reaches over, and squeezes
his hand gently, wordless.

Kanna then looks at Thropan.  "She's out to try and gain vengeance for
Lian's death.  By building a gigantic bomb."  She sighs.

Beowulf says, "We tried to contact her, to let her know what had
happened. We got a message saying she was off building a bomb the size
of a galaxy, and she'd get back to us when her bloody vengeance was
comlete."

Kanna says, quietly, with steel in her voice, "Orien will not get a
chance to know his mother.  I do not want him to grow up without a
grandmother, either."

Thropan sighs.  "Is there any way to find her before it's too late?"

Beowulf shakes his head. "I can understand how she feels... but I don't
want to leave any of *my* loved ones behind feeling the way we do now."

Beowulf says, "We sent her a messenger bird; it was about the only way I
could think of to contact her. We could try trying to home in on her
location in Shadow... but if she's barracaded herself in her lab, we
won't be able to get through."

Kanna thinks.

Thropan says, "Well, if she actually plans to use it, eventually she has
to come out of the lab."

Kanna says, "I don't know... I'd need to check some of the
inventories... but if there's any messaging/courier equipment that was
left by the Nomad Artifacers in the Ziggurats... we could use some of
those as well.  Catch her both ways."

Kanna nods.  "And it takes time to get from Amber to Chaos and the Abyss
without trump."

Beowulf nods. "I hope she doesn't have any trumps for locations down in
Chaos, then."

Ruka says, "To the best of my knowledge, Dr. Wasyuu has never
particularly studied the art of Trump."

======
======

The_Prof pages, "Damn it... I want to intercept Wasyuu, but I'm not at
all sure what we're going to say. x.x And it's probably going to take
forever, waiting around for her." to you.

You page, "basically, don't do this, save it for later, take a step
back, we don't want to lose you, and we don't want you to miss out on
spoiling your grandson." to The_Prof.

You page, "Rig the NA gear, if they have stuff suitable, to relay
messages when intercepted.  Have Gaby/Aeris keep pinging for when she
becomes accessable again.  WArn our folks in the courts,e tc." to
The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Heh. Hopefully that'd work." to you.

======
======

Beowulf sighs. "I certainly hope she hasn't... and that none of us who
have been down there have given her a trump of there."

Kanna shakes her head.  "I certainly haven't."

Beowulf nods. "Let's hope, at least."

Beowulf asks, "Aeris? Could you let us know if she becomes accessible to
Trump again?"

Aeris says, "I'll keep trying to give her a call."

Beowulf pats the Aeris badge. "Thanks, honey."

Kanna lets out a long, tired sigh, and leans back on the couch, looking
as weary as Onoli and Gina have ever seen her, for all the explinations
she's done over the night.  "And that's... where we stand now.  The whys
and wherefors of what happened to Jade, et. al., to the best of my
knowledge.  I apologize for not having thought of explaining things
further... for giving an incomplete view of things... and I admit, I was
negligent in that.  One day, somehow, I realized that I would need to...
but with one thing and another, I thought the explinations I.. we... had
given were sufficent."  She manages a slight, sad, tired smile.  "We are
not omnipotent... we are not omniscient... and we cannot predict every
outcome and consequence of our actions, for good or ill."

Gina says, "Well, even if you had told us, it wouldn't have made a
difference."

"As there's nothing we could have used the knowledge for to prevent what
happened."  She sounds frustrated by that.

Kanna says, quietly.  "I could have hoped otherwise, though."  She
shakes her head.  "I do not know."

Onoli says, "At least we will know for the future."

Beowulf smiles ruefully at Kanna. "We're people. Good and bad, selfish,
generous, happy and sad." He sighs. "...I never would have expected
something like this to have happened either."

Beowulf hms. "I wonder if there's a way to build in a 'buffer,' that
would dampen or eliminate the bad effects of... something like this
happening?"

Kanna nods, looking seriously at Onoli.  "If there are any ...
reasonable precautions that could be enacted, that the various concils
may wish put into place... if they are told of this... I will cooperate,
to the best of my ability given the circumstances and my own duties."

Kanna hrms thoughtfully at Beowulf's suggestion.  "I don't know.  It
could bear looking into, however."

Beowulf nods. "We can scan the library, while we research Tharkold."

Kanna nods.

Beowulf smiles sadly and looks at Thropan. "One reason we were looking
for Wasyuu was to talk to her about arrangements for a... memorial
service... for her daughter. Do you have any wishes in that respect?"

Onoli says, "I expect the Mage Council will definitely wish to know of
this."

Onoli continues, "And we will make sure you are notified if Lian
appears."

Kanna ehehs a bit at that, and nods a bit, managing a wry smile. 
"That... will be interesting.  Talking to the Mage Council, that is. 
But I should have expected as much."  She looks rueful at that, and then
sits up a little bit straighter.  "I am a Princess of Amber, and the
Crown Princess of Ember.  I will carry out my duties to the best of my
abilities, and this is just a part of them."

Beowulf squeezes Kanna's shoulder. "I'm sure you will, sis. Do you want
me there for support?"

Kanna quirks another smile, dropping the Royal mein.  "It probably will
help to have a secondary point of view."

Onoli nods.  "It will likely be a while before they can be assembled, as
they're still running about investegating everything."

Kanna nods.  "I'll take that into account.  Sis is currently scanning
for any other anomolies in the other three realms, as we fixed
everything on Earth-Realm, as far as I could tell."

Onoli says, "That should be helpful."

=========
=========

Kanna OOCly says, ". o O (Yay, fast-time.)"

Beowulf OOCly nods. Thank Ghu. Notice you didn't explain *that* to
them... o.o

Kanna OOCly says, "Baaaaby steps, dear brother.  Baaaby steps.  One
thing to digest at a time."

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "It's one of the things they would have noticed
first..." to you.

You page, "we'll get to that.  anyway." to The_Prof.

=====
=====

Beowulf asks, "OOC Did Thropan miss Bey's question, or just look like he
doesn't want to think about it right now?"

John says, "OOC IF it's the question about the reality buffer, Thropan
knows jack diddley about how such a thing could possibly work, and thus
assumed you must be asking someone else.  If it's some other question,
the DM didn't notice it somehow"

Kanna OOCly says, "Kanna answered "Maybe, we'd have to think about it
more."  Thropan might know a little due to his artifacign skills, but
they're all local, and not suited for this scope of things."

Beowulf says, "OOC He was asking about arrangements for Lian's funeral.
o.o"

Kanna OOCly says, "Ahh, right. *wl* misfigured."

==========
==========

Beowulf smiles sadly and looks at Thropan. "One reason we were looking
for Wasyuu was to talk to her about arrangements for a... memorial
service... for her daughter. Do you have any wishes in that respect?"

Thropan says, "I'll have to think about it.  I hadn't really ever given
the issue any thought."

Beowulf nods slowly. "I understand. It's not something you ever really
want to think about." He sighs. "And since we can't contact Wasyuu
either, you'll have time to think."

Beowulf says, "I can't imagine doing anything about a memorial without
both of you involved."

Kanna mmms a bit, and nods, and squeezes Thropan's shoulder, gently. 
And then, as if reminded. ... "How's... how's Orien doing?"  She nods in
agreement to Bey's words.

Thropan says, "Orien is doing very well.  I can go and get him if you'd
like to see him."

Kanna blushes a bit.  "If that's all right with you... yes... yes I
would.  I think we all would."  She looks around at the others.

=============
=============

John says, "OOC I need to pause briefly, as I want to run to the
convenience store before it closes."

Kanna OOCly nods.

Beowulf OOCly nods as well.

======
======

You page, "(oh yes, read the full 'Rescue of Random' log.  Whooo.)" to
The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Haven't read it myself yet. o.o" to you.

======
======

Tybalt wakes up.

Kanna OOCly says, "'lo, Merc."

You page, "(Beowulf -- Black hair, brown eyes, blue jeans, brown leather
Bag, comfortable flannel shirt? (any particular design for the last?) )"
to The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Hm... perhaps blackwatch plaid -- that blue, green, and
black one? Or else just a simple denim shirt would also work." to you.

You page, "I'll see what I can work,b ut that should be doable." to
The_Prof.

John says, "OOC Okay, I back."

Kanna OOCly nods.

Beowulf OOCly tries to pick the thread back up. o.o

============
============

Thropan pops out and gets Orien and returns, holding his little baby
boy.

Beowulf smiles. "I'm afraid I was never much for children, but he looks
like a fine young specimen."

Orien stares at all of you in the way of babies who are too young to
really understand much of what they see.

Kanna blinks, and looks at the boy, watching him carefully... and
Patternsights him.  "May I..." she holds her hands out.

Thropan hands Orien over to Kanna.

====
====

You page, "Hm, red hair, brown eyes like Lian, I think he's supposed to
be?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "The child has the Blood of Order, and yes, I think so." to
you.

Akemi pages, "Probably darker skin, as Thropan's human body is black,
IIRC." to you.

You page, "*nod* Yup, that he is in humanform." to Akemi.

You page, "(Blood of Amber-Order, not Avalon-Order, yah? (as Kanna would
recog the latter from Lian before everyhting).)" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "He's got blood of both Orders :)" to you.

You page, "Oh wow. :)" to Akemi.

====
====

Orien stares solemnly at Kanna.

Kanna holds Orien gently, cradling him, looking down at the lil' tyke,
gently running a fingertip through his fine red hair, along his cheek
and over the point of his ears.  *q* "Hey there, 'lil one..."  Her
expression gets somewhat maudlin... *q* "... he's got Lian's eyes,
bey..."  She blinks her burgoing tears away.

Beowulf looks at Orien, and murmurs, "Are you going to grow up and be a
strong fighter like your daddy, or a builder and creator like your
mommy?"

Beowulf squeezes Kanna on the shoulder again. "...I know, sis, I know."
His own voice doesn't sound any too steady.

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "And whatfor means this *q*? o.o" to you.

You page, "*q* == Quietly.  *vq* == very quietly." to The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Ah." to you.

=====
=====

Kanna then blinks again, and then starts to giggle, looking somewhat...
amazed.  *vq* "... she did it.  she really really -did- do it..."

Beowulf blinks. "Hmmm? Did do what?"

Orien looks at Beowulf and announces, "Buba."

Kanna speaks up, a little bit clearly for the others to hear...
especially for Ruka.  "Orien... you see... possess the Blood of
Avalon... -and- the Blood of Amber in his veins."

Ruka blinks.

Beowulf stares at Kanna. "He does?" He boggles a little. "Um."

Kanna says, "The Metal Pattern imprint I saw on Lian's body... I wasn't
sure of it at the time... but Orien proves it.  She actually managed to
-walk- it."

Kanna smiles over at Ruka.  "Here's the part where we get to the
eexplination that I owe -you-, my dear captain."

Beowulf shakes his head, a look of wonder in his eyes. "Well."

Ruka looks at Kanna with a look that seems to indicate that he's
suspecting you're going to announce you're Orien's real father.

Kanna blinks at Ruka, and then rolls her eyes.  "No, Ruka.  It's not
what you're thinking."  She takes a breath.  "Have you ever wondered how
and why Keiko was adopted into mom's family?"

Ruka says, "I assumed she was Corrine's illegitimate child."

Kanna says, "That's what the family -wanted- you, and the rest of the
populace, to think." She sighs.  "As the reality... well, is both more
amazing and troubling than should be revealed... and I ask those here
not to reveal it either, though given the closeness you have to the
family, in one way or another, that you would have learned eventually. 
And more than that, I trust you all."

Beowulf nods slowly. "You know you can trust me, Kanna."

Ruka nods.  "I will tell no one."

Kanna sits back again, cradling Orien in her arms.  "Basically... 40
years ago.. at the time of the Annadil Crisis, there was a situation
where, well... Keiko, who was a native of Lipun, with no blood of Amber
within her, ended up walking Morgenstern's Broken Pattern.  This, as the
way of things went, inflicted the Pattern's Price upon her mind,
althought it was alleviated for a time by the use of the Patternblade,
Justice, which has the power to cut through lies to reveal the truth. 
But it was only a stopgap -- when she slept and awoke again, she would
have that mental flaw once more."

Kanna nods.  "But... there was a solution.  A risky one, but one that
was possible.  She could erase the flaw... by attuning to the Fire
Demi-Jewel, and once that was done, she could walk the Fire Pattern."

Kanna says, "And so she did.  And in doing so gained the blood of Ember,
and the Imprint of the Fire Pattern."

Ruka stares in surprise.  "Oh my."

Kanna looks down at Lian's child.  "Somewhere around here... Lian must
have done the same, via the Metal Jewel.  For a moment, she was truly of
the Blood, for all practical purposeses."

Beowulf says, "That... oh, my." He blinks. "That... isn't widely known."

Beowulf says, "To say the least."

Orien begins to flail his arms about and cry.  Looks like he's hungry.

Kanna looks up at Ruka again, and nods.  "It is not something to be
assayed lightly -- to attune to one of the Demi Jewels is trying ever
for one of us of the original blood... I don't know the specifics, but I
assume one has to be strong in mind -and- body to manage that far...
erm..."

Kanna looks up at Thropan.  "Um... got a bottle for him?"  She looks
embarrased.

Beowulf hmms, and sees if he can conjure up some baby formula.

Ruka nods.  "I would imagine, given I had never heard even a whisper
that such a thing is possible."

Thropan says, "Aaargh, I didn't think to bring any food.  I'll have to
pop back to the house and get some."

Beowulf says, "Let me see what I can do first. Any special nutritional
requirements he has?" He starts concentrating and moving his fingers.

Kanna tries to soothe Orien while Beowulf and Thropan work on the
feeding-the-baby problem.  She looks over at Ruka, and Beowulf, gravely.
"And with good reason.  If that news got out... I'm sure you can
imagine what sort of hue and cry would develop, from those kingdoms who
have looked jealously at Amber in the past, and wished power of Shadow
themselves.  Steal the Jewels, attune... -kill off the family- to try
and gain the power of Amber for themselves...."

Thropan says, "Not at this age beyond normal baby needs."

Beowulf nods, and finishes, handing Thropan a bottle of formula. "Let's
see how he likes this." There's a little image of a crab on the side.

Orien quite happily slurps down lots of baby formula.

Kanna arches an eyebroww at the crab logo, then shrugs, and offers the
bottle to the lil' Orien.  She smiles, and relaxes as he drinks.

======
======

The_Prof pages, "What, didn't catch the "Hello, Baby!" reference? :)" to
you and Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Oh, I noticed :)" to you and The_Prof.

You page, "Oh, I did. :)" to Akemi and The_Prof.

======
======

Kanna says, "Which is why the legal fiction was created for Keiko.  So
that people would not suspect.  After all, the family has been
wide-ranging over centuries..." She shrugs slightly.

Kanna says, "... And in this case, the assumed truth was and is much
safer than the reality."  She mmms, looking down at Orien again.

Ruka nods.

Kanna mmms, quietly, running her free hand through Orien's hair.  *q*
"He's going to have a difficult life because of this and Lian not being
around to explain, however.  Having children appear from the vagaraties
of Shadow is nothing new in our family..." she glances ruefully up at
Beowulf, before looking down at Orien, then over to Thropan, "... and I
would not deny him his birthrights when he is of age.  Nor would I deny
you the right to raise him in the ways of Jade and the Retreat, of the
powers that comes from your blood, Thropan.  But people will assume. 
Rumors will form.  And that's something I cannot easily stop."

Thropan nods.  "Well, no one here will care."  He sighs.  "But this does
add further complications for Orien."

Beowulf says, "Yes." He sighs. "...some way will need to be found to
explain his Pattern imprint."

Kanna nods.  "Whatever assistance my family... and I in particular, can
provide... I will give."

Kanna looks down at Orien's tanned skin, red hair, and considers her own
tanned skin.  "I can already tell you at least -one- of the rumors
that'll form, right now," she says dryly, rolling her eyes.

Beowulf hmmms. "I wonder... " He looks over at Kanna's words, and
chuckles. "Not by me, I assure you."

Kanna rolls her eyes again, and sticks her tounge out at Beowulf.

Beowulf grins. "Careful, there, someone might cut it off."

Kanna says, "At least there will be time -to- figure out what shall be
told, and who shall be told to what degree," she comments wryly.  She
then leans against Ruka, looking... remarkably domestic, given her size
and all.

Ruka nods.  "Best to keep Orien secret for now."

Beowulf rubs his chin thoughtfully. "I wonder if we can explain it
through some sort of weirdness related to her other-universal trip. As
she *did* have a true Pattern imprint there, and we could claim it let
her obtain one here. I doubt many people will try to visit other
universes to get a Pattern imprint, though I could be wrong."

Gina nods.  "We don't get many visitors from outside, so he would be
safe here for now, I hope."

Beowulf smiles ruefully at Gina. "I hope so. I'm sorry for dragging you
all into this."

Kanna nods.  "After this crisis resolves... and I apologize as well."
She looks rueful.

Gina sighs.  "Well, I've dragged enough people into things that I can't
complain too much."

=======
=======

You page, "... *pause* In all the years I knew Lian, after she got back
from her travels... she only had the BP imprints of Mechanus, yes?" to
Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Yep" to you.

Akemi pages, "You're being trumped by Demetrius." to you.

You page, "Okay, so I have no clue what bey's mentioning up there.
*blink*" to Akemi.

=======
=======

Kanna looks about to respond, then blinks.

Beowulf lets out a deep breath. "Curse of the lifestyle, I suppose." He
stops and shudders, expression crumbling inwards.

Kanna says, "Trump Call.  Demetrius.  Sis, go to full backup mode."

Beowulf frowns, and snaps out of his funk. "Right."

Gabrielle says, "Can't talk, apocalypse in progress...."

======
======

The_Prof pages, "...not *now*, not before the funeral... x.x" to you.

======
======

Kanna hands Orien to Ruka, and moves several paces away so that she can
not have other people see behind her.  She pauses, and takes bey's hand. 
"Aeris, then."

Beowulf asks, "...*SHIT*. Aeris, can you help?"

Aeris says, "Okay!  Who's calling?"

Kanna says, "back me up, Aeris.  I'm conversing with Dread Pirate
Demetrius... now."

Beowulf nods in agreement with Kanna. "Help her, please."

Kanna allows the contact to form, while bringing up pattern defense
mentally, and using Aeris to back up and monitor the connection as well.

A tall, thinnish, black-haired man in a seacoat, wearing a sword,
appears on the other end of the Trump contact. He blinks. "Well, it
worked." He hefts a brick. "You paged me?"

=====
=====

You page, "No beard on the man, matches the image of Demetrius from
mom's paintings, etc?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Yep." to you.

You page, "what's the bg for him -- Gainax, a subamrine, something
else?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Submarine." to you.

=====
=====

Kanna nods a bit, and smiles.  "Yes, I did.  I am Kanna, Crown Princess
of Ember, and I wished to discuss a potential job -- that of salvaging
a person from the Abyss."

=====
=====

Kanna OOCly lags.

The_Prof pages, "Damn, I'm getting really paranoid again." to you.

You page, "Well, yes, me too, but well... this is a situation that we
only get once in a while. *wl*" to The_Prof.

=====
=====

Demetrius nods. "Lord Gainax informed me. Would you like to come
through, or should I come to you?"

=====
=====

Beowulf says, "OOC I'd rather go down to Gainax, myself, though that
would be problems with Gaby."

Motoko says, "OOC:  Perhaps not after last night.  :)"

Kanna OOCly says, "Well, that, and he's not -in- Gainax.  he's calling
from his sub."

Motoko says, "OOC:  As I think you guys may be at the same point
chronologically as us, which is why Gabrielle is talking about the
apocalypse.  :)"

Beowulf says, "OOC ...um. o.o True."

Demetrius says, "OOC: Aeris should be able to tell I'm floating out in
the ocean near Amber, yes."

======
======

You page, "Hm.  what would be best... bringing him here after putting
back on Abyss so he can live, etc?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Best from what value of 'Best'?" to you.

You page, "Er, I mean best -- bring him here by trump by hand, or go to
his sub?  I'm suspecting the former. *wl*" to Akemi.

You page, "As I can still do Abyss Shutdown if need be.  Can't on the
sub." to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "From the security procedure, pulling him through to you is
safer." to you and The_Prof.

You page, "That's what I figured. *wl*" to Akemi and The_Prof.

======
======

Kanna says, "If you could come here, that would be greatly appreciated."
She smiles slightly, and gesture to Ruka offscreen, for him to hand
Orien to Thropan and for Thropan/Onoli/Gina to make them not -scarce-,
but not as noticeable.  She then mentally turns back on Abyss power for
just Jade for the moment.

Kanna stands from the couch to give people room to move.

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "ACK! Why turn it back *on*, when that's our main
security measure? o.o" to you.

You page, "Hold a bit." to Akemi and The_Prof.

Akemi pages, "Hmm?" to you and The_Prof.

You page, "Would keeping Abyss off kill Demetrius/keep him from even
-entering- the place?" to Akemi and The_Prof.

You page, "Jade, that is." to Akemi and The_Prof.

You page, "(waiting for john opinion...)" to Akemi and The_Prof.

Akemi pages, "You don't have the slightiest of ideas." to you and
The_Prof.

You page, "Whee. *sigh* Well, we're trying to bargan in good faith, so
well, if I need to do a massive shutdown, well..." to Akemi and
The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Well, you could always ask, explaining that we just had
to deal with an attack by Abyss forces and want to keep our defenses
up..." to you and Akemi.

You page, "Hrm, true." to Akemi and The_Prof.

You page, "What's my feeling on how Demetrius would react to such a
request?" to Akemi and The_Prof.

======
======

Thropan takes Orien and hops back to his house with him.

Demetrius nods. "One moment." He calls to someone off-trump, and then a
black-cloaked figure steps into it. "An attache," he says. "Mister
Bogdozan, you have the con." He extends a hand.

=====
=====

Kanna OOCly pauses for the bathroom.

Kanna OOCly returns.  sorry 'bout that.

You page, "(poke?)" to Akemi and The_Prof.

John asks, "OOC Okay, we ready for Demetrius and his aide to come
through?"

Kanna OOCly nods.  "As ready as we'll ever be, I suppose."

=====
=====

Demetrius steps through into where Kanna is. Accompanying him is a tall,
robed figure with a black staff.

The tall, robed figure turns and looks at each of you briefly, then
stands and waits.

Beowulf nods to them both, though he keeps a wary eye on the robed
figure.

Demetrius says, "This is Lieutenant Commander T, my third officer."

Ruka nods to T.

Kanna is standing in a pleasant wooden living room (which is lined with
paintings), and bows to both of them.  "Dread Pirate Demetrius.  It is a
pleasure to meet you at last."  She smiles.  "My mother long told me
tales of her travels with you and your crew, so many years ago.  Would
you care to have a seat?"  She nods to T, as she gestures Demetrius to
the dining room table.

Demetrius smiles briefly at the whole 'Dread Pirate Demetrius' thing.
"Captain will be fine, your highness." He nods at everyone, then blinks.
"Years? It was about a month ago for me."

Kanna quirks a smile.  "And 'Kanna' will be fine for myself."  She
arches an eyebrow.  "Well, time apparently flows oddly between the
universes."

Beowulf smiles, chuckling a little as he shakes his head. "The time
gradients can vary a lot inside this universe, as well."

Demetrius nods. "So Lord Gainax told me." He looks around the table.
"I'm sorry, I don't believe I know most of you."

Kanna nods.  "This is my cousin, Prince Beowulf of Amber... and Captain
Ruka Tuschiya of the Shalomar Naval Base of Amber."

Beowulf bows. "Beowulf Kohl... please, leave the Prince out."

Demetrius inclines his head at each of them. "Demetrius, of Chaos.
Captain of the Radiant, Master of the Abyss."

Demetrius says, "Oh, and Prince of Avalon, just lately."

Beowulf raises an eyebrow at that.

Demetrius says, "Although I think there's things I need to sign for
that."

Beowulf shrugs. "What you are, you are; a piece of paper doesn't really
change that."

Kanna's other eyebrow goes up, and nods at Beowulf's words.   "Quite a
series of developments."  She smiles slightly.  "As much as I'd like to
learn more of what has happened in the lands of Avalon... and in the
future, you can rest assured that I will be asking, for both mine and my
mother's interests... shall we get down to preliminary business?"

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "How much longer d'you think we'll be?" to you and
Akemi.

You page, "I'm good for a bit.  I'd like to negotiate that we can get
further negotiations later, as the situation is very odd. *wl*" to Akemi
and The_Prof.

Akemi pages, "Well, I can go a lot later tonight, but it's up to y'all
as to how far we go." to you and The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Righto. :) I probably don't want to go much past
midnight here, myself; it's been a long week." to you and Akemi.

=====
=====

Demetrius nods. "Of course, of course." He leans forward, steepling his
fingers. "Lord Gainax gave me some preliminary details, but I'd like
more. Apparently, there's a being of power you'd like pulled out of the
Abyss."

Demetrius says, "Which is not particularly uncommon; you'd be amazed
what people throw down there."

Kanna nods in confirmation.  "Indeed.  The White Knight, the guardian of
the Air Pattern was tossed down there forty years ago, our time.  While
efforts were made in the past to try and retreive her, none have been
successful -- and the need for her return has risen, due to another
crisis upon the land."

Demetrius says, "Well, the Radiant is more than capable of making the
dive to retrieve it. Er, her."

Demetrius says, "At least, it should be. Beyond a certain depth... well,
even I don't like to go down there."

Beowulf nods. "What would be needed for the attempt?"

Kanna chuckles slightly.  "'It' works as well, to tell the truth. 
However, we have no idea how far down she was transferred."

Demetrius says, "Well, an energy signature would help immensely, as
otherwise I'll have to just cruise back and forth aimlessly locking onto
Pattern."

Beowulf shakes his head. "'It' sounds terribly rude." He hmms. "Any
particular kind of energy signature? A Trump, or some such?"

Demetrius says, "And a Trump and someone of not-inconsiderable mind, or
some other way of ascertaining this Knight's identity, would be
helpful." He turns to Beowulf. "I'm incapable of extracting a proper
signature off of Trump cards. They don't work in the Abyss."

Kanna hrms.  "We have people we can consult with, to obtain a native Air
Pattern Imprint, and bind it to an object for comparison, I should
think.  I do not know if anybody ever had a -chance- to make a Trump of
her before the Annadil Crisis."

Demetrius asks, "I'm told these Knights are creatures of Pattern, so I
would imagine someone has an energy signature recorded somewhere.....?"

Beowulf asks, "A Trump would be helpful, but Trumps don't work in the
Abyss?" He shakes his head. "I'm sorry... could you expand on that?"

Kanna nods. "Probably.  It would likely take us a day or three to obtain
one, to consult with the right people for the job."

Demetrius says, "The Trump would be used once I had her -out- of the
Abyss."

Beowulf nods. "Ahh. Thank you; that makes perfect sense."

Demetrius says, "The Radiant is a custom-molded Shadow inside a
specially cast hull; you aren't actually -in- the Abyss when you're in
it."

Kanna ahhhs, and nods.  "Impressive."

Beowulf nods. "Indeed."

======
======

Kanna OOCly (traiiiins).

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "Who can I think of that would have that energy
signature? Anthy's the only one who comes to mind at the moment." to you
and Akemi.

You page, "Both Kanna and Corrine have walked the Air pattern.  Anthy's
got the most direct experience with the WK, though, and the Air Jewel,
etc, so I suppose she could extract the best imprint and trump
impressions, etc, int he next few days." to Akemi and The_Prof.

In a page-pose to you and The_Prof, Akemi nods.  Also, The WK vanished
afore Kanna was born.

You page, "*nod* Best to consult within the next day or three with those
who would know, have met her, etc.  Like I said, Kanna's walked Air, and
has that imprint (as well as Metal and Fire), but that doesn't really
help diddly for recogging the WK, save in general terms." to Akemi and
The_Prof.

In a page-pose to you, Akemi nods

=====
=====

Kanna asks, "Where is The Radiant currently keeping Station?"

Demetrius says, "Oh, it's making it's way up that bay of yours towards
Amber City." Pause. "I expect this will cause comment, as it is about a
mile long and bristling with cannons. But it's flying all proper flags
and markings."

Beowulf frowns. "Please, see if you can hold it back. Things are a
bit... tense... at the moment."

Kanna mmms, and nods.  "That would be ideal.  There are certain
countries int he Golden Circle which could likely serve as safe port for
the nonce..." she glances at Ruka for this.

Ruka says, "I had best call ahead and give warning, or there's likely to
be massive death raining down on you soon."

Demetrius says, "Well, it can go anywhere, and it flies." He sounds
very, very proud of it. "I can bring it anywhere."

Beowulf cocks an eyebrow and half-smiles. "Oh, I have no doubt in its
ability to go places. But Amber is rather tense right now, since we
recently had... some serious attacks, and I'd prefer to avoid
misunderstandings."

Demetrius nods at Ruka. "As I said, it's got all proper flags and
markings out. Well, proper for my universe, anyway. Do <complaicted
series of nautical flags and terms> mean 'privateer-for-hire' here as
well?"

Demetrius asks, "Or will it get me shot at?"

Demetrius says, "I don't enjoy being shot at unless I'm getting paid."

Ruka says, "It will get a lot of people looking at you and wondering
where you're from."

Ruka says, "Also, there is a fair chance you may be about to sail into
waters controlled by Bloc Rebmaquois, who will try to kill you because
you aren't them."

Demetrius asks, "Do these Bloc Rebmaquois have anything that can stand
up to massive energy cannons and a wide array of solid-shot cannons?"

Beowulf nods. "Fairly nasty fellows... eh, Kanna?" He smiles a bit,
remembering that relatively innocent adventure at the start of this
whole mess.

Ruka says, "They have a spikard for controlling water."

Demetrius swears. "Well, yes, that'd be a problem. "

Kanna looks wry, and then nods.  "And are under the sway of the
Outsiders.  Not people you want to encounter casually.  Our kingdoms are
working to deal with them, but...  it will be a close thing."

He continues, "They've already destroyed five groups of mercenaries
we've tried sending in to probe their defenses."

Demetrius asks, "Outsiders?"

Beowulf says, "There's also a chance they might have access to a fairly
nasty battleship... <inserts normal Amber terms for 8 pt. armor>"

Demetrius asks, "Oh, right. Lord Gainax explained that." He blinks at
Beowulf. "Battleship, you say?"

Beowulf nods. "Yes. Under the control of a House of Chaos nominally
allied to the Bloq Rebmaquois."

Demetrius makes a dismissive guesture. "Oh, I can cut through that like
tin foil. Best not to court trouble, though, even though some of my best
plunder has come from looting the burned wrecks of those sent against
me."

Beowulf nods. "Best indeed."

=======
=======

You page, "Hm.  Quick consult with Ruka -- what would be relatively
out-of-the-way-yet-Amber-Reachable ports for the Radiant to go to port,
not Amber-proper, that shouldn't cross over Bloc Territory?  For some
odd reason, I'm thinking Isle of Emeralds and Frostspire. *wl*" to
Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Isle of Emeralds would be a good place for him to go" to
you.

=======
=======

The_Prof pages, "...Merc. x.x" to you.

You page-pose, "Aerianne patpats.  Well, he'll learn, soon enough. *wl*"
to The_Prof.

You page, "Maybe." to The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Heh. Wonder what would happen if Gaby took a dislike to
Demetrius? ^_^" to you.

========
========

Demetrius nods. "So, you want me to go down, find this person, and bring
them back up. Easy enough." Pause. "Now where's the catch."

Kanna looks wry at that.  "One, we do not know how far down she is. 
Two... in approximately [] days, on High Summer, our universe is slated
to be invaded by another group, -via- the Abyss.  How familiar are you
with the Abyss Demon known as the Sanjiyan?"

======
======

Kaede OOCly says, "Sanjiyan."

Kanna OOCly says, "What he said."

Kaede OOCly says, "Saiyajin is something else entirely. :)"

Kanna OOCly says, "That'd be interesting, being invaded by spiky yellow
guys...."

======
======

The_Prof pages, "Do we tell him about the Abyss Monks, or not? o.o" to
you.

=======
=======

Demetrius blinks. "Sanjiyans? Sanjiyans are nasty, but anyone weak
enough to be out of the Abyss should be easily handled."

Demetrius says, "They're only really dangerous if you -give- them power,
and i can't think of anyone that mad."

Kanna frowns, sadly.  "Unfortuantely, someone has."

Kanna says, "In the universe this particular Sanjiyan hails from.. her
name is Hel, by the way... she has managed to gain control of that
universe's Jewel of Judgement, and corrupted that universe's Royal
Family of Amber and conquered the entirety of Shadow.  And she is going
to try and bring her forces -here-... hence our need for the White
Knight.  For Air is what those of the Abyss are weakest against."

Beowulf says, "Someone in this other universe, at least." He shudders,
remembering the trip through Tir'na'nog and the tapestry of Sakura
sacrificing Nanami.

Demetrius says, "They like to suck people souls out -the technique is
simple- and then Abyss Compel their bodies while they store the souls in
themselves." He blinks, then goes chalk white at what Kanna says about
Hel.

Demetrius says, slowly, "A Sanjiyan has obtained control of the artifact
used to create multiple universes."

Beowulf says, "That universe's version of it, at least."

=====
=====

Chris pages, "Ah, meeting with Demmy?" to you.

You page, "Yup.  After explaining more of the links of Jade to
Kanna/Lian, and meeting Orien." to Chris.

Chris pages, "Busy evening, then." to you.

=====
=====

Kanna says, "Hence the danger... we have no idea what forces within the
Abyss she may already be massing, though we've already had at least one
attack by those who were Abyss Compelled after their death."  She nods,
slowly.  "She does not yet control ours.  And we will not let her.  We
-will- fight it, even if the cost be high."

Beowulf nods grimly.

Demetrius opens his mouth, shuts it, then opens it again. "You are all
in so very much danger it isn't even funny."

Kanna sighs, and nods.  "We know.  Oh believe me, we know.  But we MUST
hold the line.  Or other universes will lose the chance to dream,
Demetrius."

Demetrius says, "I hope you have many, many Abyss Masters ready to
dispel the raging zombie hordes she will send against you."

=====
=====

You page, "... let me guess, Travis, this is the part where Lian's
actions are gonna hurt us majorly? -.-;" to Chris and The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Dang... Merc's acting *scared*. x.x" to you.

The_Prof pages, "Unfortunately, I think that's the case. ;_;" to you and
Chris.

Chris pages, "Considering that the local Abyss Masters were pretty much
Hel's fanclub, I doubt that you'd have gotten their help, Lian's actions
or not." to you and The_Prof.

======
======

Kanna says, "We have been doing what we can, I assure you.  And High
Summer is not quite yet."

Demetrius wrings his hands. "Sanjiyans, like many of us who dwell in the
Abyss, take enhance their power from blood sacrifice. The more potent
the blood, the more power."

Beowulf says, "And this one... was brought to power by the sacrifice of
a daughter of Amber."

Kanna nods, quietly, and glances at Beowulf.  "We have heard prophesies
about rituals to that effect, yes."

Demetrius grinds his teeth. "The Opening of the Gate."

Demetrius says, "That's been done ONCE. You need someone with the Blood
of Order and a powerful weapon to do the cutting."

Beowulf blinks. "Could you explain further?"

=====
=====

You page, "Eheh... why do I get the feeling this reminds me of the
stories mom told of how Brand was released? *wl* (ie, JuriAv slaying Dar
and Venir with Eternity's Rose? *wl* )" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Why yes, it does." to you.

=====
=====

Demetrius sighs. "The Opening of the Gate is the most advanced of the
rituals available to those of us who have mastered the secrets of the
Abyss. By it's power, you may unlock the Abyss and release anything,
-anything-, trapped inside."

Kanna rubs her throat abesently as Demetrius speaks.  She then lowers
her hand and squeezes's Ruka's.

Demetrius says, "You must sacrifice one with the Blood of Order upon a
specially prepared altar or temple using a weapon of great potency. Once
completed, the Gate opens."

Ruka squeezes back.

Beowulf rests his chin in his hand, frowning and looking very disturbed.

======
======

Beowulf asks, "OOC How does that match up with the picture I saw in the
tapestry?"

John says, "OOC That seems to match up pretty well."

======
======

Demetrius says, "It's been done -once-. And even then, Brand had to
trick people."

Kanna says, "That must have been how Hel got out in her own universe."

Beowulf nods to Kanna. "I'm not sure what kind of weapon Sakura was
using... but that matches the tapestry I saw in Tir'na'nog, that led me
to visit Hel's universe."

======
======

You page, "Kanna's squeeze gets a little tigher at the mention of
'Brand'.  Breif flash of an old memory, of the Duelling Platform but
over the Abyss, unconciously..." to Akemi.

======
======

Demetrius says, "Anyone who summoned a Greater Sanjiyan with this was a
fool or a madman. Sanjiyans are nasty and conniving and will stab you in
the back the second you turn it."

Demetrius gives you all a 'what the hell have you people dragged me
into' look.

Beowulf says, "Unfortunately, Sakura probably was a madwoman. She... was
the estranged wife of the King of Amber, and had a deep and abiding
grudge against him."

Demetrius massages his temples. "I liked it better in Avalon, where all
I had to worry about was the Golden Circle boiling away or Gideon
wanting to gut me."

Kanna gives Demetrius a 'Because you're the best' look back.  "I admit,
the situation and scenario is dire, Captain.  However, our preparations
for her assault is not for naught, and we have already managed to thwart
some of her plans.  And I can understand your trepidation.  However, we
called you because my mother remembered your skill and assistance in her
own troubles, and she would like to make full and proper recompensense."
She arches an eyebrow at the mention of Gideon.  "Oh?"

Demetrius says, "Gideon doesn't like the Abyss. Understandable, since
Mikage got his hooks into his daughter." He perks up at the mention of
'recompense.' "Oh, my, yes. You want me to recover a being that a
massively overpowered Sanjiyan has a vested interest in keeping locked
away in the Abyss, and you want me to do it where it's powers are
-strongest-."

Demetrius says, "This will not, as they say, be cheap."

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "Sorry for not holding up my end of the conversation...
I'm getting tired enough to be fuzing a bit mentally." to you.

You page, "No problems. *wl*" to The_Prof.

=====
=====

You page, "From what I can figure (using Diplomacy skill, etc)... things
the Dread Pirate would want that Ember could offer -- fresh and complete
new hull, repairs for any damage incurred on missions, cargo to ship and
sell back in Avalon, etc?  What else?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Those all sound like reasonable things to offer" to you.

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "How much longer youthink yhwe'll be? I'm starting to
fuzz ouat." to you, Akemi and Mercutio.

Akemi pages, "Depends on how long it takes y'all to finish the
negotiations." to you, Mercutio and The_Prof.

You page, "If Demetrius wants to delay a bit on finalize negotiations,
we can tell him where he can berth and wait and think things over,
Travis can go sleepybye, and then I can do a bit of RukaScene. *wl*" to
Akemi, Mercutio and The_Prof.

=====
=====

Kanna gives Bey a glancing look as to 'be quiet and thoughtful', and
nods.  "Of course." She thinks for a moment.

Demetrius gives you all a look that says 'you are about to tell me what
you're willing to pay, and then I will be telling you what you -will-
pay.'

Kanna ticks off on her fingers.  "well, for starters -- a fresh and
complete new hull, built from the strongest metals the Ember Metalsmiths
can forge, to your specifications.  Repairs for any damage incurred
during said missions in our universe, without cost.  Cargo to ship and
sell back in Avalon.  For starters."

Demetrius arches an eyebrow. "Reality Metal? Now, that'd be a coup. Your
mother once offered me that as well."

Demetrius's left eye twitches a bit when he mentions Corrine.

======
======

The_Prof pages, "What point da'ya want to offer him info from Annadil's
library/plans, or do you?" to you.

You page, "Hm... how would offering info from Annadil's library/ship
plans go over as well?  As  we of course woudl keep our own copies.
*wg*" to Akemi and The_Prof.

Akemi pages, "He might find them useful." to you and The_Prof.

======
======

Kanna says, "And my mother is the Queen of Ember.  I am her blood
daughter, the Crown Princess.  Funny how that follows."

Demetrius says, "Yes, isn't it. We often follow our parents." Twitch.

Demetrius says, "I should warn you that the nature of my ship requires
an master of the advanced arts of Pattern or Logrus to replace the
hull."

Kanna blinks at that, and shrugs.  "If you need time to think it over, I
understand, captain.  And we do have those... alliances are being forged
between Amber and Chaos as we speak, to fight against the coming
onslaught."

======
======

You page, "(so, SO glad OOC that I didn't mention Kanna's middle name
yet.  Demetrius would go splort. :)" to Chris and The_Prof.

Chris pages, "[Somewhere in the deep reaches of the Mindscape, Gideon
twitches. A lot. "Killllll ... Demetriussss .... "]" to you.

The_Prof pages, "Heh. Notice how I didn't bring up Lian." to you and
Chris.

You page, "Neither did I.  Nooo, not planning to have him send a message
directly. :)" to Chris and The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Nath a good idae." to you and Chris.

The_Prof pages, "Perhaps save that for later neogotianions, then." to
you and Akemi.

You page, "I'm thinking, if we do... it's all going to be for in a
packet to Juri Av and Roderick.  Then there'll be a small letter within
for Gid. :)" to Chris and The_Prof.

Chris pages, "Make sure that small letter goes through someone else, or
there will definitely be dead Demetrius." to you and The_Prof.

You page, "Well, that's why I mentioned in a letter from Corrine to
Juri." to Chris and The_Prof.

=====
=====

Demetrius says, "... but if you could..." He thinks for a bit. "I'll say
yes right now to the cargo and expenses, and if you can provide me with
a hull of, say <term for 4 point strength>, then all else I'd require
is..." he scribbles on a pad a bit.

Demetrius says, "There." He turns the pad around and shows you a sum.
It's large, but any of you Royalty could pay it out of your respective
kingdoms petty cash or personal estates and never miss it.

Demetrius says, "I also require exclusive rights on all corn and
corn-related products looted during my tenure for you."

=====
=====

You page, "Those terms that Demetrius has listed (the armor, cargo,
expenses, and cash) -- Acceptable from Kanna's eyes, given her position
as Crown Princess?" to Akemi and The_Prof.

Akemi pages, "Given the incredible danger you're asking him to go into,
yes." to you and The_Prof.

You page, "(and more importaintly, -obtainable-? :)  I figure Kanna
talked with momma about this before.)" to The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Hm. Wonder if Annadil's library woulard have any
intaeresting info on corn? :)" to you and Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Yep, it has some information on Corn :)" to you and
The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "If, say, it had a book on corn with interesting but
non-dangerous info, could have Aeris make a copy and give it to him now
as a token of good faith. Reach into the bag, ans..." to you and Akemi.

======
======

Demetrius says, "Oh... and I'd really like someone who know more about
this universe than I to accompany me." His tone implies this is not by
any stretch of the imagination a deal-breaker.

Ruka says, "I'm sure we can get someone from Amber's military to
accompany you.  Or perhaps Prince Kentaro, given he's not doing anything
right now."

Kanna considers this, and then nods.  "You are welcome to them, Captain
Demetrius."  She smiles.  "And these terms are acceptable."  She pulls
out a pad herself, and drafts a quick legal document for the two of them
to sign, negotiated for the above terms and signed under herself as
Kanna, Crown Princess of Ember, and Demetrius, Captain of the Radiant. 
"I believe in a few days, we shall be able to provide a suitable person
and suitable information.  At the moment, arrangements are tight."  She
sighs.  "We're currently preparing for a funeral for one of my Cousins."

Gabrielle suddenly shouts, "HAH!  TAKE THAT!  AND THAT!  AND THAT!!!!"

There's a brief pause.

Kanna blinks down at her manifestation badge.

"Wrong speaker, just ignore that, sorry."

=====
=====

The_Prof pages, "Perhaps it would be a good idea to ask her what's going
on, privately?" to you.

You page, "After the negotiation." to The_Prof.

=====
=====

Demetrius sobers. "I'm sorry to hear that," he says genuinely. "It must
not be easy to lose family."

Beowulf reaches into his bag and pulls out a book, handing it to
Demetrius. "You might find this interesting... a token of our good
faith."

Demetrius takes it, intrigued.

Kanna sighs, and nods.  "No... it's not.  It has been several rough
months for our family.  We have been fortunate thaat more have not been
lost.. but things have been close."  She then also turns the legal
document around for Demetrius to persue, where the basic terms of the
agreement are laid out all nice and clear.

The title reads, "Corn of Infinite Shadow."

Beowulf nods sadly in agreement. "It has been a bad month."

Demetrius licks his lips as he takes the book. "So very much corn."

Demetrius says, "Umm. Sorry. force of habit." He pockets the book.

Kanna nods.  "That's quite all right.  And does this document meet to
your satisfaction, Demetrius?"

Demetrius nods. "It does indeed." He signs it with a flourish, then
seals it with a kind of odd-looking black substance and an iron ring
worn on his right hand.

Kanna signs it herself, with her usual flair, and pulls out a small
sealing-wax press and stamp, which makes the crossed hammers on it.

=====
=====

You page, "Kanna is NOT mentioning her middle name.  Not at all,
nopenope. :)" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Heh." to you.

======
======

Demetrius says, "I'll want notarized copies and things, but you seem
like people of good faith."

Kanna nods.  "For the time being... if it's all right with you, Captain
Ruka... I would recommend making port at the Isle of Emeralds."  She
nods.  "As do you, Captain Demetrius.  In these troubled times, they are
highly valued."  She smiles.  "And of course we'll make such by the time
we meet again -- oh, may I have a trump of you to contact you later?"

Demetrius says, "I'd gladly give you one had I spares. Trumps are hard
to come by. And actually... hmm. Lord Gainax mentioned you were heading
for the Keep of the Four Worlds. Assuming this is the case, I'd like to
berth under it, as I most comfortable when under friendly guns."

Kanna OOCly says, "-would- they be able to park the abyss sub there? o_O
 I definitely would have to consult Kafuin, etc about it..."

=======
=======

Demetrius asks, "OOC: It has water, right?"

Demetrius says, "OOC: If it has water, I can park it there."

John says, "OOC There's a water shadow adjacent, so yes."

John says, "OOC For that matter, there's water filled caverns under it
too :)"

Beowulf says, "OOC And the Outsider pinhole? :)"

Kanna OOCly says, "That's what we've got the Big Tree For."

Beowulf says, "OOC I'd imagine we's need to check w/Riumuru and Kafuin
first, though."

Kanna OOCly of course.

========
========

You page, "[Kanna, somewhere in the back of her head -- <<LIAN, WHAT THE
*CENSORED* HAVE WE GOTTEN OURSELVES INTO?!?!?!>>]" to Chris.

Chris pages, "[Lian shrugs. "Don't ask. There's a reason dad really
dislikes Abyss-y folks and tried to kill Demetrius."]" to you.

=======
=======

You page, "hm.  John?  How did I ident Demetrius calling int he first
place?  Did mom happen to have put a Demetrius Trump in my deck, or
gabrielle? *wl*" to Akemi.

You page, "(or did I get trump report via gaby-link?)" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Actually, I thought you had a Demy trump, but it looks
like you don't, so I guess you just had a flash of intition :)" to you.

You page, "Ahhh. *wl* Well, corrine did trump sketches back then, I
remember -that- well... so she probably could have, given the fact I was
gonna be trying to get in touch with her. *wg*" to Akemi.

You page, "er, him." to Akemi.

========
========

Kanna hrms.  "I would have to consult with the masters of the Keep of
the Five Worlds, but it can't hurt to ask."

Demetrius nods. "Of course. I am anxious to learn more about this
universe, and experience has shown me that the Royal Family tends to be,
as they say, where it's at."

Kanna nods, pulls out her trump deck, and shuffles through the cards,
quickly with the ease of long practice.

Demetrius blinks at the amazingly fat deck and compares it to the very
small one he brought from Avalon.

Kanna looks down at her deck, and smiles, sheepishly.  "Large family,
and both mom and sis are skilled at trump.  So's one of my uncles, and
one of my nieces.  They add up."

Kanna then trumps Rimururu.

Demetrius nods. "My own family is quite small, and seems to be shrink
and grow by turns."

Rimururu takes the call.  "Hello, Kanna," she says softly.  She looks to
be somewhere in the Keep in a hallway.

Demetrius takes the time to calculate how much corn he is likely to be
able to rape from this corn-rich, virgin universe.

A LOT.

Kanna smiles a bit, sadly.  "Hello, Rimururu."  She sighs, quietly.  "I
apologize for calling like this, at this time, given what is to occur at
the Keep tomorrow... but I have a favor to ask, of you and Kafuin."

======
======

Kanna OOCly says, "But the question is, could he hold it all int he
ship's holds?"

Demetrius says, "OOC: Oh, we'd find a way."

======
======

You page, "(oh, and saw my spell-list?  John liked it, overall. *wg* )"
to Chris.

Chris pages, "(Yup, saw it. Got some nasty stuff. :)" to you.

You page, "Oh, the thing with the Elder-Power Purge is that with most
folks, she'd be using it against Shadowdwellers, etc, who don't have a
real chance to WALK Pattern or Logrus, so mind repair becomes less of an
option. :)" to Akemi.

Chris pages, "(I doubt my spell list will be that ... violent. Besides,
Shiori will likely end up with a lot more sorcery than Orien.)" to you.

======
======

She says, "Yes, what is it?"

Kanna takes a deep breath.  "We have managed to make contact with the
Abyss Pirate Demetrius, who helped carry my mother and Juri of Avalon
during their adventures 40 years ago, and he is looking for a place to
berth his ship for the nonce.  He would like to do so at the Keep, in
the water shadow under 'friendly guns', having heard of its existance
from Anno-sama.  I can understand if you do not wish to give permission
-- however, given Kafuin's control over the Elemental Shadows and the
Keep itself, it should be possible that close to kafuin, he could block
abyssal power and other attempts of hostility, if need be."

Rimururu says,"That's fine.  I believe we can handle anything he is
likely to try."

Kanna takes a deep breath.  "Very well, then.  What... what time is the
funeral, Ember-time?  Will it be acceptable for him to arrive before, or
would you prefer after?"

Kanna OOCly says, "Amber-time/Ember-time, same diff."

Rimururu says, "It's fine if he comes and parks at the Keep as soon as
he feels like."

Kanna nods.  "Very well, then.  Take care, Rimururu.  We'll see you
tomorrow, mostlike."

Kanna drops the trump connection.

======
======

The_Prof pages, "Akio says, "Demetrius, not being stupid, will not
attempt to take on the three-hundred point characters with his 150-point
bad self."" to you.

You page, ".... my lord. :)" to The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Heh. ANd I hope to Ghu we can fork here, since it's an
hor later than I'd wanted to knowck off." to you.

You page, "with this, we should wrap up, Bey can go sleep, and Kanna can
degauss with Ruka. *wl*" to The_Prof.

In a page-pose to you, Akemi nods

======
======

Kanna looks over at Demetrius.  "It would appear that your thoughts on
were to dock are acceptable."  She smiles slightly.

Kanna does a quick sketch of the Keep of the 5 Worlds, and the water
shadow.  "I assume you shall be able to reach there all right?"

Demetrius smiles back. "Most excellent. Really, all I need is deep
water." He nods. "Lord Gainax gave me a map of the universe." He
produces the Anno-made crystal map.

======
======

Beowulf asks, "OOC That look lkihe what he was working on when we
visitaed earlier?"

John says, "OOC No, though it looks to be made fromthe same material."

Beowulf OOCly blinks. Was meaning to ask him what that was, but didn't
felel it would be polite when they were there before. Especially since
he felt he'd just screwed up.

======
======

Kanna ohhhhs, and nods, and smiles.  "Very convenient."  She smiles, and
stands to shake Demetrius's hand.  "Smooth sailing, Captain Demetrius. 
May the Pyricorn light your way to safe harbors, and the Serpent guard
your hull."

Demetrius twitches at the mention of 'Serpent' and 'Hull.' "A ha."

Demetrius says, "Well, it's been a pleasure doing business with you,
Kanna."

Demetrius shakes her hand. "I'll see you soon, I imagine." His eyes
flick over her reflexively, then pause and track back towards Berylina.

Kanna bows in apology. "My apologies if I've upset you in any way,
Demetrius."  She then stands again.  "It's been a pleasure to meet you
and do businesss as well."

Beryllina is sheathed, so only its plain gold basket hilt is visible. 
Kanna is also tall.

Demetrius says, "Hunh. Well, good day to you. Let's go, T." He produces
a Trump of his sub.

Beowulf stands as well, bowing. "Pleasant sailing, Captain."

T nods, and puts a hand on Demetrius' shoulders.

Kanna steps back, and waves as they head out.

Demetrius trumps out.

Kanna watches them trump out.  She turns back off Abyss power, fully. 
She looks at Beowulf and Ruka.  "So... opinions on the Good Pirate?"

======
======

You page, "(in the back of Kanna's head -- Twitch twitchtwitchtwitch
twitch...)" to Chris and The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Eh?" to you.

You page, "Oh, Kanna was just noting Demmy's reactions to the mentions
of her mom, various things about the Abyss he mentioned, his looking at
Beryllina..." to Chris and The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Yah. And the whole corn fetish... not sure about his
reaction to Corrine. o.o" to you.

You page, "Well, I know OOC.  IC, Kanna knows that mom looked like
Darako just tanned and longer hair, but not past that." to The_Prof.

The_Prof pages, "Ah. As in, in love with her, or something?" to you.

You page, "Well... don't repeat this IC or OOC, but Demetrius had a
history with Darako.  It... wasn't a good one.  He's got issues. 
Corrine partially reminds him of her.  Whee." to The_Prof.

======
======

Beowulf says, "His aide, T, was making my trouble bump itch. He
himself..."

Ruka says, "Other than his strange corn thing, he seems like a
reasonable mercenary."

======
======

You page, "Hm, was -I- getting any Major Threat evals from T and/or
Demetrius?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "T made you a little nervous, Demetrius didn't seem to be a
threat." to you.

======
======

Beowulf says, "...corn." He facepalms. "I'd hoped that giving him that
book would distract him. Unfortunately, it seems to have worked too
well."

Kanna nods in agreement with Beowulf and Ruka.  "Yeah, I was feeling
something of the same with regards to T.  And Demetrius matches pretty
much with mom's tales...."

Kanna then takes a deep breath, TWITCHES, and looks up at the ceiling,
"Good Pyricorn And Serpent What Have We GOTTEN OURSELVES INTO?!"

Twitch.  Twitch twitch twitch.  Twitch.

Kanna says, "Okay, I'm better."

Beowulf BLIIINKS.

Kanna says, "Had to get that out."

Ruka winces.

Ruka says, "He wasn't that strange."

Kanna looks apologetic.  "No, not him.  The stuff about Hel."

Kanna twitches again.

Kanna says, "Sorry."

Beowulf gives her a one-armed hug. "Relax, sis. Relax." He sags a bit.
"And here I thought I was the tired one."

Ruka says, "Oh."

Beowulf says, "Um. Yes. Hel." *He* twitches.

Kanna  sighs, and sits.  "This... just keeps getting better and better,
Bey, Ruka..."

Beowulf says, "I admit, watching our acquaintance here scared me more
about Hel than traipsing around in her castle did."

Ruka says, "Well, Amber has faced many threats before.  We will survive
this one as well, I think."

Kanna nods, and squeezes Ruka's hand.  "Right.  I just need to keep
reminding myself of that.  With your help, I think I can."  She smiles
at him.

Beowulf looks up and half-chuckles. "I hope so. Somehow, I think we
will."

Kanna nods, and then looks thoughtful.  "mmm.  Bey?  Ruka?  Are you good
for staying the night, at least in fast-time while we're here?"

Kanna says, "I still want to deal with the remainder of the stuff here
around Jade, before having to run all across Amber starting to make
arrangements for paying Abyss Pirates and whatnot, and I could -use- the
break tonight."  She smiles slighty.

Ruka says, "I certainly am."

Beowulf says, "As long as we're in fast time... yes. As I need to get
back and help Lily, but I'm about out on my feet now." He yawns. "I
didn't think I was that tired before our friend showed up, honestly I
didn't."

Kanna says, "I wasnt' expecting such a fast response, either, but..." she
shrugs.  "No beard.  I dunno know WHY Motoko was so insistant he
shouldn't have a beard, but he doesn't have one... anyway, the room
upstairs is still good for you, Bey."

Beowulf looks at Kanna and smiles ruefully. "And if there's stuff left
here to be dealt with, then you'd better have backup."

Kanna says, "Go, sleep, we'll figure more things in the morning."

Kanna says, "One thing, though.  Just to be safe.  Before we go to the
funeral tomorrow, Amber-time -- Patternwalks for the Two of Us."

Kanna then hrms.  "Speaking of which... what was -that- all about, sis?"
She looks down at her Gaby Manifestation.

"Brain...hurting..."

Beowulf yawns again, hugely. "Sleep. Right." He looks at Kanna. "Um.
Yes, that's probably a good idea."

Beowulf asks, "Gabrielle?" He blinks, wobbling. "What's wrong?"

Gabrielle says, "Had a bit of an unpleasant experience, but not half as
bad as some others.  Well, I think Jacqui will probably want to tell you
about the whole thing yourself later."

Kanna looks down at her sis with concern.  "Eh?"

Kanna asks, "Ah.  Right."  She mmms, and pats her manifestation. 
"Everybody still alive and all right, at least?"

Beowulf looks over at the Gabrielle manifestation. "Jacqui. Right." He
sighs.

Kanna says, "We'll find out on the Amber Morrow, I think."

=======
=======

The_Prof pages, "Aieeee...." to you.

The_Prof pages, "Remind me to send you a log of the peanut gallery right
now. o.o Talking about all the Rake caracters showing up in UnS. x.x" to
you.

The_Prof pages, "Joking. I *hope*." to you.

The_Prof pages, "Alan says, "'Can't we just send them back to their own
universe?'  'It appears to have fallen into some kind of stasis.  We're
required to take them in under something called the "Aborted Campaigns
Refugee Act".'"" to you.

You page, "*snrk* :)" to The_Prof.

=======
=======

Kanna then yawns again.  "'s long as everybody's safe, 'ncluding you,
sis... I think I'll be able to cope."  She makes as if to hug her
manifestation, such as it goes.

Beowulf totters towards the stairs. "Anyway, assuming the Universe -- or
the nasty things in the corners of the Shadow -- aren't going to come
out and smack us upside the head, I'm going to try and sleep so I can
operate with some coherency tomorrow." He yawns. "See you in the
morning."

======
======

You page, "One of the things Shiori would have had to get used to with
regards to the Elder-Power Purge... the earliest attempts had a bad
tendency to -literally- fry synapses.  As in, burning brains.  Wheee."
to Chris.

You page, "One of the things Shiori would have had to get used to with
regards to the Elder-Power Purge... the earliest attempts had a bad
tendency to -literally- fry synapses.  As in, burning brains.  Wheee."
to Akemi.

Chris pages, "Well, there's enough cultists to experiment on ..." to
you.

In a page-pose to you, Akemi nods.

Chris pages, "As long as she keeps to the correct cultists, that is." to
you.

=======
=======

The_Prof pages, "Why do I feel like things are spriallying out of
control? x.x;; Maybe I'm just tired. I hope I'm just tired." to you and
Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Go sleep, Travis." to you and The_Prof.

======
=======

Beowulf heads up the stairs to sleep.

Gabrielle nods.  "I'm sure you'll hear soon."

======
======

Beowulf says, "OOC And the player heads into bed to sleep. x.x Seeya all
later."

======
======

Kanna nods, and waves to beowulf as he heads up the stairs.  She lets
out a long breath.  "So."  She quirks a rueful smile at Ruka.  "If I
hadn't said it already... welcome to the weirdness that is my family,
love."

Ruka says, "I work for Princess Kozue.  I am used to strange things."

He says, "Although I rarely have had this much access to the inner
councils, so to speak."

Kanna chuckles a bit, and pats him on the shoulder, sighs softly, and
leans back a bit on the couch again.  "Hang out with me, and you'll
probably get even more access... 'specially if mom ever makes me
Regent."  She eyerolls, but looks wry.  "I'll need -somebody- I can vent
to, but the offer's mutual."

Ruka says, "We all need someone to unwind to."

Kanna nods.  "Don't hesitate, if you ever feel the need." She smiles
softly, and reaches up to touch his cheek.

He smiles at your gentle touch, and says, "Well, I'm feeling a little
jumpy about the upcoming attack on Bloc Rebmaquois, but other than that,
no major tensions for me."

He continues, "Although I'll likely not come anywhere near it."

He says, "But it's likely going to be ugly."  He shakes his head.  "I've
studied some of the plans back from centuries ago, when Rebma and Amber
nearly went to war several times.  It could be very bad."

Kanna grins more widdely, but nods.  "It's going to be nasty.  And so
will this extraction.  And so will dealing with whatever happened to
Tharkold's construct.  And ..."

Kanna then mms, and sighs.  "You know... even though I've read some of
the stuff from then, I can't truly fathom an Amber/Rebma war?"

======
======

Kanna OOCly lags. :P

Kanna OOCly lags more. :P

Kanna OOCly laglaglaggs.

Kanna OOCly shoots the lag with a carp.

======
======

Ruka nods.  "It's never quite come to that, as our interests were always
different.  Until now."

Kanna mms again.  "With the Bloc Controlling it." She shakes her head.
"Well, hopefully, if they flush out, and Lucien then rules there...
perhaps we'll get things started anew.  A fresh start, three kingdoms 
allied."

Ruka nods. "Exactly.  I hope that will be the case."

Kanna looks at the paintings around the room.  "I really wish you
could've come with me to Cathuria, Ruka," sahe says quietly.  "I know
you wanted to see it..."

Ruka nods.  "My duties, unfortunately, tend to get in the way of a life
of adventure and travel."  He sighs.

He gets up and wanders around the room, looking at some of the paintings
more closely.

======
======

Akemi pages, "Hmm, once you talk to Ruka, is there anything else you
needed to do before the funeral?" to you.

You page, "Just the Cleaning Up of stuff on the remaining realms with
bewoulf and Ruka in fast-time, meeting the Mage council (fast-time), set
back to normal, go home, sleep, patternwalk next morning before
funeral.. All those I figure can be glossed." to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Righto.  We may be able to do the funeral on Sunday or
Monday then." to you.

You page, "Oh, and painting paintings of Lian and Moriya for folks." to
Akemi.

======
======

He pauses and smiles at a painting of the harbor of Cathuria.

Kanna nods, getting up, and moves along with him.  The paintings are all
of Kanna's usual quality.  She smiles at his pause.  "The first sight we
saw when flying in, escorted by the Phoenix.  You can even see Aunt Juri
in it if you look hard enough."  She indicates the section of paint
that's Juri.

He looks more closely and nods.  "A good likeness," he says.  "If a
small one.  Not that I saw much of her before she vanished."

Kanna chuckles softly, and rubs her throat.  "Oh, you can't go down a
hallway on a floor in Castle Ember without seeing at least -one-
painting of Aunt Juri -somewhere-..."

Kanna says, "... or of Other Aunt Juri..." she mms at that, pensive.

Ruka says, "I actually haven't been around the palace very often, as it
isn't a boat."  He laughs a little.

Kanna chuckles softly, and gives him a one-armed hug.  "I'll have to
give you a tour... make it a day trip, and then head down to Ember-Port,
and I'll show you some of the Emberite Ships up-close and personal."

He says, "That would be nice. I should be able to get some leave once
this crisis is all over."

Kanna -smiles-.  "*Good*.  I have a feeling we'll all need it."  She
blushes more.  "Especially given where our future travels may very well
lead..." She quirked a smile.  "Seeing Orien... well, it got me
thinking."

Ruka says, "Are you thinking of trying to seek the universe Lian's
father came from?  Or are you thinking of having children?"  He sounds a
little nervous.

Kanna blushes a bit more.  "Perhaps a bit of both.  Maybe.  One day." 
She hehs, embarrased.  "I'm sorry, Ruka." She shakes her head.  "You
know I would never force anything on you.  This sort of thing, well...
it -has- to be mutual.  Am -I- ready for it?  ... I don't know.  And I
want to know your thoughs on the matter, too."

Kanna says, "But knowing something of Lian goes on... beyond memories,
beyond a Patternghost... well..." She shrugs, helplessly.

Ruka nods.  "Well, I've thought about children.  And it's not like we'd
have to worry about supporting them.  But the time for that is once this
crisis is past."  He sighs.  "Poor Orien."

Kanna nods.  "Exactly." She sighs, and looks ruefully up at Ruka.  "I
would not want to leave things as Lian did, even accidentally.  I don't
know what Thropan's thoughts are on the matter, on how he wants to raise
him.. but if he does feel that sending him to Amber part-time is a good
idea, I -will- feel beholden to help raise him and support him in Amber
and Ember."

Kanna says, "and, well, that'll impact both you and me, in ways I can't
fully figure out, though as usual, I have some suspicions."  She looks
rueful again.

Ruka says, "The child needs someone to act as a mother."  He shakes his
head.  "It is a terrible thing to be orphaned before you can even know
your parents."

Kanna nods.  "You up to becoming 'Uncle Ruka', if things turn out that
way?"  She quirks a smile.

Kanna says, "And at least he'll know his father.   And hopefully, his
Grandmother, too.  Gideon..." She sighs.  "That's gonna be the tough
one."

Ruka nods.  "Being an uncle is an enjoyable thing.  I already have
several nieces and nephews."  He smiles.  "A few of them are older than
you."

Kanna blinks at that, and coughs.  "You know, whenever we get around to
meeting -your- family, Ruka... I'm gonna be soooo nervous..."  She
blushes, fetchingly.

Ruka laughs.  "Oh, I'm sure they'll approve.  Although some of them may
faint from shock.  Perhaps my cousin will finally believe I'm not
sleeping with Kozue."  He shakes his head.  "The man is demented."

Kanna rolls her eyes.  "Personally, I've always figured a person's
sexual affairs with another being, as long as it's consentual and not
harming either, is their own damn business."  She looks wry.  "Hopefully
we'll be able to set the matter straight, together."

Ruka says, "Well, it helps if people aren't imagining things
completely."

Kanna nods.  "Damn straight.  Sadly, too many people in the world today
let their imaginations run unchecked... and so the Rumor Mills are
born."

Kanna yawns widely, and blushes.

Ruka smiles and picks up Kanna.  "Best I take you to bed, honey?"  He
winks.

=====
=====

You page, "(he can pick me up?  The mind boggles. :)" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Kanna doesn't weigh hundreds of pounds, and someone with
Amber strength can bench around 800-1000 pounds :)" to you.

You page, "Yay!  *Happy!* :)" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Kanna could heft and throw motorcycles ala Corwin :)" to
you.

=====
=====

Kanna blinks, -grins-, and makes herself comfortable.  "Just up the
stairs, first door on the left, dear."  She winks.

He walks over to the stairs, then carries Kanna up the stairs.

Kanna goes with, and I figure at this point we fade on the twosome.

===========================================
===========================================

John asks, "OOC You gonna go crash now?"

You page, "Right. *g* Oh yes, minor note -- somewhere around here, Kanna
would describe to Bey and Ruka what she knows of the
Juri/Darako/Venir/Brand thing, while still in fast time, and the
existance of Gideon's -other- daughter, and apparently that she's gotten
AbyssMunched TOO.  Dunno if you feel that -needs- to be played IC." to
Akemi.

Kanna OOCly yah.

Akemi pages, "We can assume that off stage" to you.

You page, "(Ruka might also get some slight dream-bleedover as Kanna
remembers her time as Juri trying to -fight- The Duel Called Revolution
against Dar, but again, offstage, vague stuff, but Kanna would voice her
desire NOT to mention Dar around Demetrius. *wg* :)" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Righto!" to you.

Kanna OOCly says, "And now, beddybye for me. A nd playing the Mac Demo
of Oni."

Kanna OOCly waves to all.

John exclaims, "OOC G'nite, Phil!"