Date sent:      	Sun, 16 Dec 2001 18:05:07 -0500
From:           	Alan Harnum <harnums@thekeep.org>
Subject:        	Log 76
To:             	ranma@KU.EDU

08/12/01
Logfile from Kawaiimuck
Rod has connected.

Rod has disconnected.

Rod has connected.

Jacqueline says, "aaah, better"

Rod has disconnected.

Kaede OOCly says, "Ready whenever."

Motoko says, "Yos."

There is a kerblinkie as Mutsumi pulls Motoko and Moonshade and
Davros and Mitsune out of the air.

Kaede looks up from his conversation with Thoric, and rises.
"Welcome back, Motoko-sama, Moonshade-sama." He nods also to
Davros and Mitsune.

Jacqueline is far off to the beach, sitting on a boulder by the
shore and staring at the ocean, having been there for a little
while.

Moonshade ambles over to Jacqui.  Mitsune looks Yuki and Kaede up
and down, then says, "Hello, I'm Mitsune Butler.  Nice to meet
you."  Yuki rises and bows to her.  "I am Yuki.  Nice to meet
you," she says.

Moonshade sits down by Jacqui.  "You okay?"

Jacqueline says, "Nnn."  She wobbles her wings slightly.

Motoko says, "Davros, Mitsune, this are Moriya's friends from
Frostspire, Kaede-san and Yuki-san."

Kaede's eyes widen slightly. "Mitsune-sama. I am Kaede. Moriya's,
Moriya's...cousin."

Jacqueline tilts her head as she hears the voices.  "Is Mitsune
with you all?"

Moonshade looks thoughtful.  "Do you have enough strength with
those to lift me up into the air, hmm?"

Jacqueline blinks.  "I think I can.... you wanna go for a
flight?"

Kaede asks, "Motoko-sama...may we go to the Keep, now?"

Mitsune blinks at anyone calling her '-sama', then says, "Yes,
Moriya told me about you.  He had many good things to say about
you and Yuki."

Davros bows to both of them.  "Nice to meet you.

Moonshade nods to Jacqui.  "Yeah.  I'm not so light as Nanami-
chan, but you can pretend."  She winks.

Motoko says, "We will need to wait a little while, Kaede-san, as
I think Jacqueline and her sister have some business to speak of,
and they may wish to accompany us."

The tiniest wrinkle creases Kaede's forehead, but he bows. "All
right."

Moonshade says, "I can trump you, Motoko.  Jacqui and I may be at
this a bit.  Or were you planning to come to the Keep, Jacqui?"

Jacqueline tilts her head.  "Oh, wait, I have someone to kill
down at the Keep.  Just a short amount of business.  I suppose I
might as well do that now."

Moonshade blinks.  "Hmm, okay, we can all hop to the keep, and we
can talk while you're on your way to kill whoever it is."

Motoko looks at Jacqueline pointedly.  "Who are you planning to
kill?"

Mitsune blinks.  "Kill someone at the Keep?"

Kaede seems slightly perturbed at the turn of conversation, but
keeps silent.

Jacqueline says, "The Taylor involved in father's murder.  I
never got around to it."

Motoko says, "Mmm.  All right.  If we are all ready then..."  She
takes out a trump of the Keep.

Kaede says, "I am ready."

Jacqueline gets rid of the wings and joins the others.

Motoko trumps the group to the Keep.

Thoric and Mutsumi join you all, and then you trump out.

The Keep is in a somber mood, settled into a cold fall day.

Though it should be early summer by now.

The preparations for the funeral are in process.

Kaede rubs his arms, looking around. "Where is my brother's
body?" he asks, softly.

Moonshade says, "We'll see you guys in a bit I guess.  Let's go
talk and kill."

Jacqueline says, "hold on, sis."

Jacqueline nudges Mitsune.

Motoko looks around and sighs gently.  "Kafuin," she asks
quietly, "where is Moriya?"

Mitsune blinks at Jacqui.  "Yes, Jacqui?"

"Moriya is lying in state in the gardens."

Jacqueline quietly gives Mitsune a hug.

Kaede murmurs, "I remember the gardens," and starts walking
toward them.

Mitsune hugs Jacqui tightly.  "Thanks, Jacqui."

Motoko waits to follow Kaede until Mitsune is done with Jacqui,
then walks with her after him.

Jacqueline tightens the hug a moment, then lets go.  "Any time,
Mitsune."

Jacqueline says, "Let's go, sis."

Your group splits; Mutsumi and Thoric go with Motoko and Kaede's
group, as they have the impression Moonshade wants some privacy.

Motoko remains silent as they walk, occasionally fingering the
hilt of one of her swords in an unconscious nervous gesture.

Motoko's group soon finds Moriya lying in state in a carefully
prepared coffin in the middle of the gardens.  Lush trees and
plants grow all around him.  He looks quite peaceful.

Upon seeing Moriya's body, Kaede comes to an abrupt halt,
staring. Then he starts walking forward, again, but stiffly, like
an automaton. "My god," he says, choking. "My god, my god,
Moriya...."

Yuki walks over, her face a mask, staring down at him, obviously
finding it hard to believe it all real.

Motoko looks at Moriya and pain flashes across her face, brief
and intense as a stroke of lightning, and then it's gone; she
closes her eyes and sighs very quietly, left hand tightening
round the grip of her "Logrusfoil".

Kaede says, "My brother is dead, my god, he's dead...." He
finally comes to a stop by the coffin, staring.

Mitsune stands and reaches down and brushes a lock of hair back
into place, beginning to cry softly.

Kaede says, "This wasn't supposed to happen." He reaches out,
touches Moriya's hand briefly. "Not like this."

Motoko comes up behind Mitsune and puts a hand on her shoulder,
squeezing gently.

Kaede says, "But...it has, and there isn't anything I can do
about it." He winces, and thrums with energy for a brief moment,
before choking it back down. "And I can't...I can't even follow
in your footsteps."

Kaede continues, softly, "I wanted to be the new Sword, but
Seiryuu said that I couldn't. He wouldn't even say if there would
be another one."

Yuki says, "We can try to carry on his work, Kaede."  She puts a
hand on his shoulder.  "That's...the most you can do for someone
when they die."

Motoko looks at Kaede for a moment and seems about to say
something, then doesn't.

Yuki says, "After all the training we've done all these years, I
think the time has come for us to put those skills to use."

Kaede looks at Yuki briefly, and nods. "I know. But...still. Even
if it is only a name, if it is only a role...." He stares at
Moriya again. "My brother, my brother...even though we fought the
last time we were together, you know that I looked up to you."

Mitsune says, "He always spoke well of you to me, Kaede."

She pulls her hand back, resisting the temptation to fiddle with
Moriya's hair more.

Kaede bows his head. "Did he? I'm glad...though I am not sure it
was all deserved." He laughs, or tries to; it comes out rather
strangled.

Kaede turns slightly. "Motoko-sama...is there a new Sword?" he
asks.

Motoko glances at Kaede from her vantage point behind Mitsune.
"Yes, there is," she replies.

Kaede stiffens a little. "If I may ask...who has taken my
brother's place?"

Motoko says, "Moonshade of the Valar, daughter of Prince Ota of
Amber and Nienne of the Valar."

Motoko says, "OOC:  Nienna."

Kaede is still, unmoving, for a few moments, then turns back to
looking at Moriya. "I see," he murmurs.

Motoko frowns very slightly for a moment, then removes it from
her face and squeezes Mitsune's shoulder again.

Davros says, "She is a very powerful warrior, one of the best I
have known."  He looks at Moriya and sighs.  "With Moriya fallen,
I would venture to say she is the best warrior of her
generation."

Motoko nods.  "Moriya and her were very evenly matched, from what
I understand.  His blade was quicker, but her strength was
greater."

Kaede nods silently, then speaks again. "I would say it is
somehow unfair, but I have no understanding of the Serpent. Then
again, who would say that there is anything fair about...." His
fist clenches.

Kaede abruptly sags and shakes his head. "Forgive me, I am being
selfish. Whatever happened, whatever is happening goes far beyond
myself and my own petty dreams."

Davros says, "It is completely understandable.  Moriya was like a
brother to me as well."

Motoko says, slightly frostily, "The Serpent chose Moonshade of
the Valar to be the new Sword of the Bride.  I do not doubt her
ability to fulfill that role."

Akemi pages, "Someone is trumping you." to you.

Motoko frowns and cocks her head to the side.

Kaede nods. "I may not pick up my brother's mantle. I will do as
I have been told, and that is all I can hope to do."

You page, "Answer." to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "The call goes through, Jacqui" to you and Rod.

Rod pages, "Jacqui stands there with a silver knife in hand,
bound Taylor in the far background. "Hi, sorry to interrupt, but
before I kill him, I just wanted to make sure you didn't need to
use him as evidence for King Ishmael or something."  She twirls
the knife in her hand briefly." to Akemi and you.

You page, "Motoko blinks, then looks annoyed with herself.  'Yes.
He should be turned over to King Ishmael as part of the evidence
against Tremere.'" to Akemi and Rod.

Kaede says, "But...I do wish to speak to Moonshade-sama sometime
soon. I would like to understand."

Mitsune says, "Moonshade will be back soon.  I think she and
Jacqui are having a little private talk."

Mutsumi nods.  "Given what Motoko just said, I assume she's gone
to tell Jacqui."

Rod pages, "Jacqueline looks... just a little disappointed,
putting the knife away.   "Glad I asked first, then.  Okay,
thanks."    The connection dies." to Akemi and you.

Kaede says, "I see."

Motoko appears not even to be paying attention to Kaede at the
moment, and then she blinks and shakes her head.  "I am sure
Moonshade would be happy to talk to you, Kaede-san."

Motoko says, "If I had to guess, however, I would assume that the
Sword must be of Order, just as the Soul is of Chaos."

Motoko says, "That is to say, the Sword must be someone whose
being bears the imprint of the Pattern of Amber."

Kaede nods once more, and finally turns away from the coffin to
look at everyone else.

Davros says, "As I bear the sign of Chaos within me."

Mitsune continues to stare at Moriya's body.

Kaede bites his lip, then asks, "Is there anyone among you who
knows how my brother died?"

Mitsune says softly, "I alone saw it."

Motoko reaches out and grips Kaede's shoulder briefly.  "I am
sorry for the loss you feel," she says tightly.  "Moriya
mentioned you to me often, though I know when last you parted,
all was not well.  No doubt you feel regret over this.  Please,
have no more guilt than you must; we never know when the end will
come."

Motoko winces at Mitsune's words, but nods.  "Mitsune was there,"
she says quietly.

She says, "On the damnable catwalk over that abyss of books.  I
can hardly even remember much of it, for I had fallen over the
edge and been taken over by Juri when I tried to call up her
skills."

Kaede bows his head briefly, allowing Motoko to speak, then nods
to her. And then looks at Mitsune.

Mitsune then relates the entire story in excruciating detail.

Speaking in a monotone voice that sounds a little like Juri's.

Motoko goes round to the other side of the coffin as Mitsune
speaks and just stares down at Moriya blankly, occasionally
trembling at certain details of the story, as though with
suppressed shudders.

Kaede listens carefully, and covers his eyes with his hand. He
starts to shake a little, and tears can be seen coming down from
behind his fingers. This time, he is unable to resist the change,
and he transforms.

Davros listens quietly, twitching frequently and looking guilty.

Yuki listens sombrely, saying nothing.

Kaede suddenly drops his hand away from his face, and lets out an
abrupt, choked laugh. "His own arm...my god, his own arm. I'm so
proud of you, Brother. Even to the end."

Mitsune says, "It was a defiant, heroic way to die.  But I would
rather he had lived."  She sighs.  "Our path was ill from the
beginning, but he fought on, and saved ourlives."

Kaede wipes his face with his sleeve roughly. "I wish he had
lived too, Mitsune-sama. But I can't fault him his courage."

Kaede sighs shakily. "I still can't believe it."

Mitsune nods.  "He died well."  She sighs.  "Better that...but I
could say that all night."

Mitsune says, "We probably should all go find Rimururu."

Kaede bows his head once more, whispering, "My god, my god,
Moriya is dead, my brother is dead, my god...."

Motoko looks down at Moriya in silence, and reaches out to lay
the back of one hand against his cold cheek.  "Death takes time
to become real," she says softly.  "At first it seems a dream
from which we might soon wake, hazy and uncertain, as though we
may suddenly turn one bend in our lives and find the dead alive
again.  But when we do wake from the dream at last, we find it is
only to realize that the dream is real."

Motoko flinches at the mention of Moriya's mother.  "A little
while longer," she says softly.  "I am not sure I will look upon
him again until we give him to the earth.  I do not know if I
could bear it."

Kaede turns around again, staring at Moriya, continuing to recite
his litany so very quietly.

Mitsune nods.  She stands and quietly watches Moriya.  Davros
stands stiffly, he seems to be praying under his breath.

Motoko closes her eyes and bows her head, hand still against
Moriya's cheek.  She murmurs something under her breath, too low
for anyone else to hear.

Yuki closes her eyes and begins to pray as well.

Kaede finally trails off and starts praying for real.

Motoko finishes at last and opens her eyes, drawing back from the
coffin and briefly cradling her hand against the front of her
tunic as though it's wounded.

Kaede opens his eyes. "Seiryuu gives his blessing. It is all he
can do now."

Mitsune cocks her head as if she hears something in the distance.
Her ears flicker, then she quietly twists a  ring she is wearing
round and round.

Motoko says, "The Serpent told us that Moriya is at peace.  As
the seasons change, so too does he, passing from the Serpent's
loving coils to the forests of the Unicorn; as he did in life, so
does he in death, child of the Unicorn but beloved by the Serpent
as well."  She sighs and walks over to Mitsune's side.  "I wish
it were easier for we, left behind, to take comfort in this."

Kaede says, "It comforts me little, when the wound is still raw
and fresh."

Mitsune says, "He always loved the forest."

Kaede says, "That he did, indeed."

Motoko puts her arm round Mitsune and squeezes tightly.  "Let's
go find his mother," she says.

Kaede nods, and turns, then hesitates and looks at Yuki. "How are
you doing, Sister?" he asks her.

You wander around for a while, then find Yumi and Rimururu busy
going through some books, apparently trying to decide on a
funeral rite.  They're in the library.

Kaede OOCly says, "Any response from Yuki? o.o"

John says, "OOC Aargh, sorry, I missed your pose "

Kaede OOCly says, "Ah."

Yuki says, "I feel chilled," she says.  "As if I stood in the
midst of winter, and for once, it is not my friend."

Kaede nods, looking pained. "Yes."

She continues, "Goodby, Moriya," she says, then takes off a
necklace she's wearing,and puts it round his neck.  "I will never
forget you."

Kaede looks at Moriya one last time, then turns to follow Motoko
and the others.

And NOW you go to the library.  Unless I've screwed anything else
up? :)

Motoko stands there rather uncertainly, then says, "Hello, Aunt.
Hello, Yumi-san."

Kaede says, "Aunt Rimururu." He pauses, bows to Yumi. "I am Kaede
Galfordson. Moriya's cousin by blood, but I called him Brother."

Rimururu gets up and says, "Hello, everyone."  She then comes
over to Kaede and hugs him.  "Hello,nephew.  You look well."

Yumi says, "A pleasure to meet you."

Kaede hugs his aunt. "You are generous, Aunt. I certainly do not
feel well," he mumbles into her shoulder, before letting go.

Motoko comes over and sits down beside Yumi, speaking to her in a
low voice.

Rimururu now turns to Yuki and hugs her.  "I know this must be
hard for you, Yuki."  Yuki blushes slightly.

You page, "'There is something I would like to do for Moriya... a
mourning ritual, common to the Courts, especially to House
Suroth.  But I do not know if it will be thought appropriate.  I
am sure you know it.  The Leaving of Self.  I want to... to cut
my hair, as some do in the Courts, and leave it with him when he
is buried.  Do you think that would be--all right with his
parents?  I do not wish to...'" to Akemi.

Yuki says softly, "It is very hard.  But we have no choice."

Akemi pages, "She blinks.  "I do not think his parents would
mind.  You were one of his closest friends.  I am sure they would
be honored."" to you.

Motoko nods as Yumi says something back to her.

Kaede slumps into a chair. "I feel so drained. More tired than I
have ever been in all my life."

Motoko asks Yumi, quietly, "When is the funeral going to be?"

Rimururu says, "Have you eaten?  We have lots of soup I made."

Yumi says, "In a few days.  On the anniversary of the Second Day
of Darkness."

Kaede says, "Yes, I had some grilled fish a little earlier, when
I first joined up with Motoko-sama. I know your soup is good,
Aunt, but my appetite is lacking now."

There is a rush of air, and Kaede changes back to his normal
form.

Motoko says to Yumi, "Jacqui and Moonshade are also here; I
believe they're still talking.  Though the last I saw of Jacqui,
she was with that Taylor that's imprisoned here."

Motoko asks, "OOC:  Was Moonshade with Jacqui then?"

John says, "OOC Moonshade was there."

Rimururu nods to Kaede.  "Alright.  Is anyone at all hungry?"

Mutsumi and Thoric say, "We just ate, but thank you."

Motoko says, "I have also eaten recently.  But thank you, Aunt."

Kaede says, "I think...I should go lie down and try to get some
rest. Though I doubt I can actually sleep."

Motoko says, "It is good to rest, if you can."

Mitsune says, "I could eat an entire pot of soup."

Davros says, "Yes, some food would be good."

Rimururu brightens a little.  "Alright, I'll be right back with
some."

Motoko OOCly retcons, since her stupid player just remembered
that she ran off to fast-time and probably is hungry.  "I could
also do with something to eat."

Kaede nods, and watches Rimururu move off. "Kafuin, are my and
Yuki's rooms still available?"

Kafuin says, "You're always welcome here and your rooms are
always ready, Lad."

Kaede bows his head. "Thank you." He laboriously pushes himself
up. "I'll retire for now. Good evening, everyone."

Motoko says, "Rest well, Kaede-san."

Yuki says to Kaede, "I will stay here a little while, I think.
Rest well, Kaede."

Kaede nods. "All right, Sister. I will see you later." And he
walks off.

Kaede OOCly says, "Okay, I'm zonked. Sleeping now."

Motoko says, "OOC:  Night."

Motoko paces around the library a bit while she waits for
Rimururu to return, obviously wishing she had something more
important to do than pace round a library.

Rimururu soon returns with soup for all who asked it.

Mitsune digs into her soup like her life is depending on it.

Motoko sits down and eats sparingly.  "Thank you, Aunt."

Rimururu smiles.  "Thank you.  It's nice to cook sometimes."

Yuki goes over to Davros.  "I understand you are a priest from
Chaos?"

Davros nods.  "I am a Stylite, a pillar monk.  Long ago, I helped
Shizumaru and Rimururu and Michelle to recover the Seed of Hope
from another Universe."

You page, "Hrm.  Given the position of the Keep as a centre of
all five elemental forces, would it be possible that some kind of
link could be traced between the Wood Shadow and the Crown of
Wood, and a scrying done via that with the Lens?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Could be.  It's unlikely to hurt trying it." to
you.

Motoko stands up after finishing her soup.  "Please, excuse me,"
she says quietly.  "There is something I would like to do.  I
should not be long."

Yuki says, "Kaede and I often came here to visit with Moriya and
his family.   Shizumaru told us that story."

Rimururu says, "Alright, Motoko."

Motoko leaves the library, and will now be doing something
private by page.

You page, "Okay, Motoko walks out of the Keep and goes to the
Shadow of Wood, standing at the border of it.  'Kafuin, can you
hear me?'" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "He nods.  "I hear you, lass."" to you.

You page, "[Motoko]  'Kafuin, have you any knowledge of the Crown
of Wood, or any other Elemental Crowns?'" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "He says, "They were forged by the Sidar and used in
the Wars of the Gods, lass.  Dangerous, but powerful."" to you.

You page, "[Motoko]  She frowns.  'How dangerous, and what do you
know of what happened to them after the War?'" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "He continues, "Each of them contained part of the
power of an Elemental God.  Now, they are all that remains of
those gods."" to you.

Akemi pages, "He says, "From what I understand, you must struggle
with them for mastery to use them.  Otherwise, they will use you.
 From what I understand, they were lost in shadow when the war
turned in favor of the Outer Gods."" to you.

You page, "[Motoko]  She frowns.  'How powerful are they?  I am
considering...'  She sighs.  'In light of what happened to
Moriya, I know one of his dreams was to seek such things out.
And I believe the Crown of Wood may lie close, very close, even
within Amber itself; amongst the stars.'" to Akemi.

Moonshade and Jacqui find everyone except Motoko in the library.
Yuki and Davros are talking quietly, while Mitsune talks to
Rimururu and Yumi and Thoric and Mutsumi.

Akemi pages, "He says, "Very powerful.  They were made to help
fight the gods."" to you.

Akemi pages, "He continues, "The five elements make up all
things.  To be an Elemental King is to wield great power."" to
you.

You page, "[Motoko]  She looks very thoughtful.  'And what is it,
to struggle to master one?'" to Akemi.

Jacqueline blinks.  "Oh, hello Aunt Yumi."

Yumi nods to Jacqueline.  "How are you, Jacqui?"

Jacqueline says, "I, ah, I'm doing as well as I can, I guess,
given the circumstances."

Yumi nods.  "Yes, I understand."  She sighs.  "Will you be
staying a while, Jacqueline?  I could use your help."

Jacqueline's eyes widen slightly.  "My help?  Oh, sure,  yes,
absolutely."

Yumi says, "There is a LOT of work to be done in preparing, and
your help would be very useful."

Jacqueline nods.  "I'll help wherever I can."

Akemi pages, "Kafuin says, "It is, as I understand, a very
difficult mental struggle."" to you.

You page, "[Motoko]  'How difficult?  Do you think I would be
capable?'" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "He frowns.  "I do not know.  Your mind is powerful,
but I know few could master the crowns.  Yet, if you could, there
would be great power to be had."" to you.

Yumi says, "Good.  So tell me about what you've been up to
lately,Jacqui, won't you?"

You page, "[Motoko]  She looks rather torn.  "Power is needed,"
she says quietly.  "Needed now more than ever.  But will do me no
good if I am lost to it."  She sits down at the edge and stares
off into the green.  "Do you think it would hurt just to look for
it?"" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Kafuin sighs.  "I do not know if it would be worth
it.  I would think looking could not hurt...but looking killed
Moriya."  His voice cracks.  "And the Crown is more powerful than
a Logrusfoil, I think."" to you.

Jacqueline seems to wilt a little, as what she's been up to
lately hardly enthuses her.   "Well.... er...... I fixed Shamber,
though it seems a little frillier than before, and then.... and
then.... ah....... we stopped a pre-Logrus Nuclear God from
unleashing his hordes of minions, then we helped Uncle Drake take
down an Outsider candidate.  And then..... er..... and
then......"  She seems to look a bit ill at this point.
"Well.... nothing much, really," she says, trying not to sound
bitter.

You page, "[Motoko]  She sighs.  "I will think about this.  And
talk to others who might know.  Thank you, Kafuin."  She thinks
for a moment, then trumps Anthy." to Akemi.

The air rips open, and Drake steps through.

He looks rather grim.  The air now closes behind him.

Jacqueline blinks.   "Uncle Drake?  What brings you here?"

Jacqueline pauses.   "Oh, wait, stupid question."

Drake says, "I have come to pay my respects before the funeral.
Moriya was one of those who came and saved me from Ebenscrux.  I
fear I will never be able to repay that now."

Jacqueline tries not to feel like an idiot.

Akemi pages, "Anthy takes the call.  She is weaving, and looks
rather sad.  "Hello, Motoko," she says softly." to you.

You page, "[Motoko]  "Hello, Anthy-sama."  She sighs.  "I guess
you've heard the news by now, then..."" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "She sighs.  "This is only the beginning," she says
softly.  "I mourn for him, who died so young.  Moriya was a good
man."" to you.

Rimururu says, "Thank you, Drake.  Would you like me to take you
to see him?"

You page, "Motoko looks stunned.  "Only the beginning?" she
whispers.  "Do you... do you know that, Anthy-sama?"" to Akemi.

Drake nods.  "Yes, I would."  He turns to Jacqui.  "I will need
to speak to you in  a little bit as well."

Jacqueline says, "O-oh, okay."

Drake then leaves with Rimururu.

Yumi looks at Jacqui thoughtfully, as if she is contemplating
asking her something.

Jacqueline just blinks fairly cluelessly

Akemi pages, "Anthy says softly, "More stars will fall from
heaven before this war is over."" to you.

Akemi pages, "She says, "I have walked the ways of it, and in
every road I could find, there was more death before the end,
though some were far better than others.  I do not know who, but
there will be more."" to you.

You page, "Motoko trembles slightly.  "I had hoped there would be
no more, but feared there would," she says softly.  "We are
strong, but we are not strong enough, are we?"" to Akemi.

Yumi says, "There is something else, but we will need to discuss
it later, after all this is over."  She sighs.

Akemi pages, "She sighs.  "We will do the best we can.  But no
one is ever strong enough to prevent all deaths."" to you.

Jacqueline gets a somewhat worried look on her face.   "This
isn't like the, er, you know, cowboy thing, is it?"

You page, "'What do you know of the Elemental Crowns, Anthy-
sama?'" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "She says, "Ancient.  Powerful.  Dangerous.  They
were forged for the War of the Gods, but they proved
insufficient.  Still, with them, it is said that a mortal could
challenge even a god if he was not himself mastered by them."" to
you.

Yumi blinks, then says, "No, not at all.  I have a project, but
it is very dangerous."  She glances about and says more softly,
"And perhaps not wise to discuss with so many people about."

She says, "Your talents would be ideal for it, but I...we can
talk of it later."

Jacqueline blinks very slowly.  She asks quietly, "Erm, would
this project, by chance involve, you know...."  She kind of does
a hand gesture for a ring on her finger.

She nods.

Jacqueline says, "aaah."

You page, "Motoko nods.  "I have heard.  And also that 'Wood's
Crown hangs in the heavens'.  I believe it may be in Amber
itself, among the stars.  I had wondered if you knew of any such
thing."" to Akemi.

Jacqueline's brow furrows, not being used to being sought by
elders for aid.   Usually, she was sought for excessive property
damage.

Akemi pages, "She says, "Upon the Forest World, yes, I could see
that.  If it is there, it is in the hands of the Parliament of
Trees."" to you.

She glances over at Moonshade, who has gone to talk to Davros and
Yuki, then says very softly, "And your sister."

Jacqueline smiles slightly.  "Mmm, sis.  You'd better ask Motoko
about it too, then.  Seems sis is her sword now."

You page, "'Forest World?  Parliament of Trees?' Motoko asks." to
Akemi.

Jacqueline says in a whisper, "And, ah, I think she'll probably
need some advice on The Art."

Akemi pages, "Anthy says, "Once, there were four celestial bodies
within the world of Amber.  The Sun for Fire.  The Earth for
Metal.  The Forest World for Wood.  The Ice Planet for Water.
And the Element of air surrounded and connected them."" to you.

Akemi pages, ""But the Ice World has melted, and the Forest World
withers in the heat of the Sun.  And yet, it survives by the
power of the Parliament of Trees.  I would not be surprised if
they perhaps possess the Crown of Wood."" to you.

You page, "Motoko looks very thoughtful.  'What are they?  The
Parliament, I mean?'" to Akemi.

Yumi smiles faintly.  "Interesting.  Alright, I will see what I
can do for her."

Jacqueline says, "she, ah, has plenty of experience in one
direction, but none in the other, if you know what I mean...."

Yumi says, "Yes, I know of the rites.  I see.  Interesting."  She
glances over at Moonshade.  "Poor Davros will probably die."

Jacqueline says, "oooh, maybe."

Akemi pages, "She says, "They speak for the trees.  Imagine
ancient trees like those of Endor, but backed by reality.  If
Fuyutsuki had not intervened, they would have possessed the Wood
Pattern, in fact."" to you.

Akemi pages, "She continues, "They are not fond of mankind, for
we bring fire and blade to destroy them and use their corpses to
make our dwellings.  But they do not like to kill either, for
they are plants, who live without killing."" to you.

You page, "Motoko sighs very heavily.  'It sounds as though
Moriya might have had much better luck with them than he did with
the Logrusfoil.'" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "She nods.  "I am sure they must know of his father,
and wouldhave at least listened to him."" to you.

Yumi says, "But a pleasant way of dying."

Drake now returns, and comes up to Jacqui.  "Hello, Jacqueline,"
he says.

Jacqueline straightens up.  "Ah, er, yes, hello."

You page, ""And now... it is too late.  If only I had thought...
insisted he remain at my side as my Sword, even if it would have
made him angry... or suggested this, instead..." She begins to
choke up, and quickly controls herself.  "Would they listen to
me, do you think?"" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "She says, "The Parliament of Trees cares nothing
for the Serpent.  But they respect the Unicorn, and I think they
would listen to one who came in his name."" to you.

You page, ""The Crown would grant great power.  I am to return a
world to life, and it is a symbol of life."  She sighs.  "I will
go to Arden and speak to the Green Knight, I think.  I have
letters to give him from his wife, and... perhaps he will be able
to best advise me.  Thank you, Anthy-sama."" to Akemi.

Drake says, "I believe I have come upon a strategy for dealing
with Dolphin's spikard, which I will need you and Motoko's powers
for.  Is she around?"

Jacqueline nods.  "She should be around here, er, somewhere."

Akemi pages, "She nods. "Good luck, Motoko."" to you.

Jacqueline looks around in confusion.   "She, ah, is still
around, I think."

You page, "Motoko begins to close the trump, then hesitates.
"Anthy-sama... when you brought Nanami-chan out of the World of
the Dead's Tir'na'nog, why were you able to do that?  If... if it
was easy to bring back those who d-died before their time through
Tir like you did for her, I know... but right now, I can't help
but think..."" to Akemi.

She's not in the room ATM

Drake nods.  "Alright.  I can wait."  He sits down.

Jacqueline asks, "so, ah, you talked to Lucien?"

Akemi pages, "Anthy says softly, "Until you visited, there had
been no babies in the World of the Dead for centuries.  She is a
symbol of the new life which must be brought to that world to
redeem it.  And..."  She sighs.  "I could not bear to abandon
her.  We were all that she had.  It may not have been wise of me
to bring her back.  But I could not abandon a baby to die."" to
you.

Drake says, "I have been conferring with Lucien, and fixing his
mistakes.   This will likely take a while."

Drake continues, "But he's given me a solid base to build from,
for which I am happy."

Jacqueline mutters, "I know the feeling."

You page, "Motoko pales slightly.  "May not have been wise?  Why
not?  Is there something about her...?"" to Akemi.

Jacqueline asks, "so when does it all begin?   How many days?"

Akemi pages, "Anthy says softly, "It can raise unrealistic hopes.
And I cannot be sure what problems she may later face because of
her elevation to a higher state of being.  But I will pay
whatever price I must.  She deserved better than she had
gotten."" to you.

Drake says, "That will depend on how long the mission I want to
send you on takes.  And I fear I will have to delay things a bit,
as I wish everyone to be at their best and ready, which...may be
a bit."

Jacqueline blinks slowly.  "Send.... me..... oh.   So this isn't
a part of the main offensive, yet."

You page, "Motoko says, quietly, "Yes... well, I will always do
my best to help her.  As I know Mother and Father will, and
Grandmother.  And you will, too.  Goodbye, Anthy-sama.  Thank you
again."" to Akemi.

Viluy wakes up.

Drake says, "I need to neutralize her lion spikard first, before
we attack, or likely much of my army will be laid waste."

Jacqueline says, "ah, yes, of course."

Akemi pages, "She says, "I know you will.  Goodbye, Motoko."" to
you.

You page, "Close trump, back to the library.  Can I just come in
now?" to Akemi.

Akemi pages, "Yes" to you.

Jacqueline asks, "what does this quest involve?"

Motoko enters the library, lost in thought for a moment; she
spots Drake and looks rather surprised.  "Ah.  Hello, Uncle
Drake."

Drake says, "Are you familiar with how spikards work, Jacqui?"

Jacqueline asks, "they.... tap power sources from many shadows,
yes?"

Drake nods.  "Yes.  Now, I was thinking it would be possible to
travel to one or more of those shadows and subvert them, then
take control of the power feeds, so that you could possibly cut
off the flow.  Or more nastily, use it as a conduit to invade and
take over the Spikard."

"Or simply feed a  very large explosion up the conduit."

Jacqueline says, "oooooh."  She sounds duly impressed, clearly
not thinking of this sort of thing at all.

Drake says, "Given that you have mastery over the Jewel of
Judgement, Motoko possesses great magical abilities,and Davros
possesses a spikard, I believe the three of you could do quite
hideous things toher spikard once you had a direct link to it."

Jacqueline tilts her head.   "Subtle.  Sneaky.  I like it.
Never would have thought of it, but I like it."

Drake now looks up at Motoko.  "Hello, niece."

Jacqueline says, "oh, good, you're here."

Motoko comes over and sits down by them.  "Yes, I am.  Did you
need me for something?"

Drake repeats his idea for Motoko's benefit.

Motoko nods.  "Very workable.  I had been considering something
similar, in fact."

Motoko says, "While I had Hoard of the Dragon in my possession,
before I passed it on to Lian-san, I did a fair amount of
experimentation in how to neutralize and counter spikard users,
as they all work on similar principles."

Drake says, "I suspect that once Dolphin and her spikard are
elminated, I won't have a very hard time dealing with the Bloc."

Motoko says, "Among other things, I've crafted a spell that
should be able to at least temporarily isolate a spikard, making
it unable to draw power from Shadow."

Jacqueline looks duly impressed.   "Oooo, you've got to show me
that one some time."

Motoko says, "It requires the higher-level Pattern magics, as it
works by actively blocking any attempts by the spikard to reach
out into Shadow."

Jacqueline says, ".... oh.   I, ah, haven't managed to improve up
to there yet."   She looks a tad embarrassed.

Drake nods.  "Useful."

Drake says, "I expect that you will probably want to wait until
after the funeral to do this."

Jacqueline says, "I, ah, well...."   She looks at Motoko as if
deferring to her preference.

Motoko says, "It should certainly be possible to attack a spikard
from one of the Shadows it draws on.  It might also be possible
to use that one Shadow to tap into the entire network and disable
the spikard."

Drake nods. "That's what I'm hoping.  Thatit can be disabled or
destroyed in that way."

Motoko sighs.  "It would be best to wait until after the funeral,
if we have time.  I am sure there are other things we can do
leading up to that that are also necessary."

Motoko says, "My concern would be that any Shadows tapped for
power by a Lion Spikard might have Outsider guardians or
otherwise, or that the Shadows might be guarded against
infiltration attempts in other ways."

Motoko says, "Though Davros would probably know the possibility
of that better than I, as he has much more spikard experience."

Drake nods. "I expect the shadows will be guarded, but you've
both demonstrated your ability to deal with powerful threats, and
you have a strong group of allies in the family.  And I will be
surprised if the defenders are up to the level of what we faced
in Marketplace."

Jacqueline tries not to sweat.   Clearly, Drake has not heard of
her previous exploits in full detail.

Motoko asks, "You want to try and remove the spikard as a threat
before the actual assault is made, or simultaneous with it?"

Drake says, "It would probably be best to remove it before, as
that way, if things go wrong, we won't be counting on it and then
be devastated when it does not happen."

Motoko thinks.  "I'm not sure of the viability of permanently
disabling it, although if we can manage to attack Dolphin through
it, we might be able to get it into our hands."

Drake nods.

Drake says, "That would also be acceptable."

Motoko says, "As even if we did manage to kill her through it--"
She frowns.  "Which I would rather not do, given who we think she
is, but... the spikard itself can simply be taken up by other
hands if Dolphin is lost."

Jacqueline blinks.  "Who she is?"

Motoko thinks.  "I wonder if it would be possible to reverse the
draw, somehow, and yank Dolphin into one of the Shadows from
which her spikard draws power, at which point she could be
disabled and the spikard taken."

Drake says, "I do not know, though it is a good idea.  Best to
force your foes to fight on ground you control."

Motoko looks at Jacqueline.  "Don't you know?  I'm sure Uncle
Drake does, as I know Uncle Lucien did, and he... ought to have
told him."

Jacqueline says, "I... nooooo... I haven't been told much about
what's going on with Rebma."

Motoko says, "Ahh.  Well, we believe Dolphin is actually Ynell,
one of Queen Moire's daughters."

Drake says, "Her youngest child."

Jacqueline says, "...... oh.   She's..... family, in a manner of
speaking."

Motoko says, "From what I've heard, she may have been twisted by
the Outsiders through her grief at Rebma's destruction."  She
sighs.  "So I would prefer to take her alive, if possible."

Jacqueline says, "... oh.   Yes."   She quietly scratches out the
idea of blasting Rebma with the Jewel of Judgement from her
mind....

Drake says, "I suspect she is beyond help.  But if you can remove
her from Rebma, it will be of great service."

Motoko says, quietly, "Uncle Miki was lost to them once as well,
and he was brought back."

Drake says, "Miki was kidnapped and brainwashed.  He didn't sell
himself for vengeance."

Jacqueline looks nervously from Motoko to Drake, hoping a fight
doesn't start from this.

Motoko coughs.  "We don't know that she did, either.  I think our
best options for permanently dealing with the spikard will
involve either attacking Dolphin's mind through one of the
conduits and attempting to control her long enough to have her
bring the spikard to us, or by forcibly yanking her into one of
the conduit Shadows via her spikard."

Drake nods. "I leave it to your discretion."

Jacqueline asks, "does anyone know how strong Dolphin's mind is
without the spikard?"

Motoko says, "Given that all she has to do to avoid getting
attacked through the spikard is to take it off, I suspect the
latter might have more chance of success, if we can do it quickly
enough."

Drake says, "When I met her, she did not impress me with her
strength of mind, but neither did she strike me as the sort to
become a crazed terrorist leader, leaving a trail of death in her
wake."

Jacqueline says, "ahso."

Motoko says, "As if we can send a teleport spell up the conduit
and breach whatever defenses she has in place to bring her to our
location, we can then isolate her spikard and incapicate her
fairly quickly, I hope."

Drake nods.

Motoko says, "The nature of the Lion Spikards might even work to
our advantage, as I expect it would be easier to do such things
with them than with other spikards, given that they fall under
the dominion of the Master Spikard somehow."

Jacqueline ever so subtly twitches.

Motoko says, "And thus might not be designed to repel or alert
the wearer to outside attempts to tap into them in quite the same
way."

Drake says, "My suspicion is that they draw some of their power
from the Master Spikard, using special 'circuits' which allow for
mental influence to be exerted as well."

Motoko frowns slightly.  "There is someone I could ask about this
who might be able to give us useful information, but I am
uncertain as to whether to inquire."

Motoko nods.  "So we might be able to 'tap' one of those circuits
long enough and subtly enough to do something useful against
Dolphin."

Drake says, "Who are you thinking of?"

Motoko says, "Kuonji Ukyou.  I don't trust him, but he has
displayed useful knowledge regarding the Lion Spikards and other
such things in the past."

Motoko thinks.  "In fact, as I recall, Anno-sama is currently
keeping one of the Lion Spikards under guard at House Gainax, the
one Kuonji took from the Gaunt Man.  It might be useful to study
it if we're going to try to do something to Dolphin through
hers."

Drake says, "Kuonji is responsible for the death of the heir to
the throne of one of Amber's allies and the near death of a large
portion of the Royal Family.  I do not trust the man further than
I could throw Kolvir with the power of my mind."

Drake says, "Though Keitaro was fortunate in that he could be
revived in Mystara."

Jacqueline directs her eyes elsewhere and twiddles her thumbs.

Drake sighs.  "Unfortunately, Lucien seems to trust him and has
enlisted his help for the Rebma operation, so I cannot simply gut
him as I think he deserves."

Jacqueline raises an eyebrow.  "He has?"

Motoko looks very uncomfortable.  "His self-interest has lead him
to combat the Candidates before.  I think by appealing to that, I
might be able to gain some useful information from him.  At the
very least, we should see if Anno-sama can allow us to study
Nimthos, and perhaps Shield as well."

Drake nods.  "Yes, I'm sure that would help."

Motoko blinks, then looks vastly annoyed with herself.
"Damnation, I knew something was nagging at me.  Kuonji outright
told me that during the Black Unicorn operation."

Jacqueline suddenly realizes studying those rings means going to
House Gainax, means seeing the Logrus again for the first time in
a long time.  She turns slightly pale.

Drake says, "I have the impression Kuonji is building some sort
of superweapon."

He continues, "Though I don't know the details."

Motoko says, "Yes, he seems to be awfully good at that."

Motoko says, "He had the most interesting torpedoes."

Drake says, "Is something wrong, Jacqueline?"

Motoko says, "I cannot fault many of his actions, though I wonder
at the intentions behind them.  He is most ambiguous.  If I did
not know better, I might imagine him to be merely the artistic
creation of someone overly enamoured with antiheroic figures."

Jacqueline says, "I, ah..... things tend to go strangely every
time I go down to Chaos.  The thought of going back there, even
if it is to House Gainax, tends to make me very worried."

Drake says, "You sound like Juri when she turned to philosophy."

Drake says, "As it sounds rather like her speculations on higher-
order universes."

Drake says, "For that matter, I might be merely the creation of a
bored accountant, but either way, it makes little difference to
my life."

Jacqueline mumbles, "I've talked to the higher order before.
Likes to fling people across universes instead of saying things
with a few simple words to make a point."

Drake says, "I do not trust him.  And I would advise you all to
be extremely wary of him.  He is worse than Father ever was in
using people and discarding them when they cease to be of use.
Father at least had a higher goal."

Motoko says, "Oh, from a point of view more within this universe,
I expect he may have a suppressed romanticized notion of himself
as some sort of 'evil which exists to oppose other evils'.  Or he
may simply be a power-hungry sociopath with the cleverness to
cultivate allies where he can by making himself useful when it
does no harm to his interests to do so."  She shrugs.

Drake nods.  "Well, do what you must.  But be careful.  I do not
wish to lose more of my relatives before I even get a chance to
know them."

He shakes his head.  "I am amazed by how much it grew in my
absence."

Motoko sighs.  "I shall, Uncle; I will see what the examination
of Nimthos and Shield can yield before I consider speaking to
Kuonji."

Jacqueline tilts her head at Drake's comment.   Knows how that
goes, somewhat.

Motoko says, "Perhaps we should go to Gainax as soon as possible,
though I should like to go to Arden first and deliver Aunt Hiko's
letters to her husband."

You page, "Did Hiko give letters for anyone else?  Corrine, etc?"
to Akemi.

Jacqueline says, "Oh, yes, that'd be a good...... oh."

Akemi pages, "Anthy, Corrine, her husband." to you.

Jacqueline pauses a moment, then resumes, "Yes, we'd best do that
quickly. I'm.... sure he misses her."

You page, "Oh.  Well, Motoko would've given Anthy her letter when
she trumped her, if I'd known about it." to Akemi.

You page, "Which she did and I didn't.  :)" to Akemi.

In a page-pose to you, Akemi nods.  Makes sense.

Motoko looks at Jacqueline for a moment, and her eyes widen.
"Oh.  My."

Jacqueline mutters something about forest animals.....

Motoko mutters something about "the poor squirrels".

Drake rises.  "I will leave you to it.  Let me know what you
discover."

Jacqueline nods.  "We'll do our best, Uncle."

Jacqueline glances sideward at Motoko.  "And you.... we need to
talk."

Drake takes out a trump.  "Farewell, then."  And then he's gone.

Motoko asks, "Fare well, Uncle."  She turns to Jacqui.  "Talk as
in casual conversation, or... talk talk?"

Jacqueline's expression seems unreadable, though she sounds
fairly serious when she replies, "Talk."

Motoko asks, "Ah.  Yes.  Well... shall we go someplace more
private, then?"

Jacqueline nods.  "After you."

Motoko walks out of the library and takes Jacqui to her quarters
at the Keep.

Jacqueline takes a deep breath, then says, "So... she's your
sword now."

Motoko sits down on her bed.  "Yes.  She is."  She looks away for
a moment.  "Are you upset?"

Jacqueline sits next to Motoko on the bed, looking thoughtful.
"I... upset is too strong a word, I think.  I... I was surprised.
And... and a little saddened."

Motoko asks, quietly, "Weren't you the one asking me to date her
just a little while ago?"

Jacqueline tilts her head in the other direction, pondering.
"Point.   Yes.    But that's quite different than being your
Sword.  How... how'd she end up... I mean.... is this a Serpent
thing?"

Motoko says, "The Serpent said that she could be the new Sword.
I asked her, and she was willing."  She looks down at the ground.
"I will try to keep this one closer to my side," she says softly.
"So that it will not be broken."

Jacqueline puts an arm around Motoko.   "I know, and I trust that
you will.   I... I will miss her, but if I was to entrust her to
anyone, you would be my choice.  Don't let this sword leave your
side."

Jacqueline says, "even though she's supposed to watch over
you.... watch over her as well?  She is my only sister."   She
pauses for a moment.   "I think."

Motoko sighs and puts an arm around Jacqui in return.  "I should
have insisted he stay by me," she says blankly, not seeming to
hear anything being said to her.  "Instisted that his place as
Sword was beside me, the Bride, instead of... running off after
his own desires."  She has trouble getting the last few words
out.  "He might have been angry and bitter, but what price those
if he had lived?  If only..."

Motoko looks at Jacqueline intensely.  "I will watch over her.  I
swear.  I'll--I'll do better this time, Jacqui."

Jacqueline nods solemnly.    "Motoko," she says in a solemn tone.
She looks into Motoko's eyes seriously.

Motoko looks away.  "I won't let any harm come to her, Jacqui."

Jacqueline very solemnly grabs Motoko's nose.

Motoko says, "Ow."

Jacqueline's solemn expression suddenly switches to that of a
happy, albiet demented, smile.  "I bet you thought I was nuts."

Motoko says, "No, but I do note you're still holding my nose.
I've had it broken once already.  I would not care to repeat t."

Jacqueline lets go of Motoko's nose and instead pats her on the
shoulder.   "So, how'd it go so far?  She embrace you in her
poweful arms?  Kissed?   You know, she has this Ear Thing....."

Motoko coughs.  "I know about the ear thing."

Jacqueline's grin turns up a notch.  "Is that sooooo....."

Motoko says, "Yes", as though answering a question about the
weather.

Jacqueline sighs a happy sigh.   "Good.... good.... knowing all
this makes me feel so very much better.  Knowing she's... in....
your capable..... hands."

Motoko coughs and blushes.  "Ahrm."

Jacqueline says, "you know, if you want, I could lend Moonshade
some of those books..... you know....."

Jacqueline winks

Motoko says, "Ahrmhrmhrmh.  I think your sister will have at
least some idea of what to do."

Jacqueline's expression eases off from the somewhat maniacal
glee, sobering.   "There is.... one other question I have for
you.  It is of the... religious sort."

Jacqueline says, "I assumed you have talked to the Serpent soon
after.... soon after Moriya... left us."

Motoko nods.  "Yes... with Davros, and Mitsune, and Yumi-san, and
Moriya's mother."

Jacqueline asks, "and.... and what did he say?"

Motoko sighs.  "Moriya is at peace, held in the coils of the
Serpent in one season, passing to the forests of the Unicorn in
the next."

Jacqueline seems puzzled.   "What's that supposed to mean?"

Motoko says, "I don't know.  I think it's supposed to be
comforting.  His soul is... it is well, even if it has left his
body."

Jacqueline nods, an odd expression on her face.  "Good..... that
is good.    And that's all I  needed to know."  She nudges
Motoko's shoulder.  "Come, let's join the others......"   She
quirks a very small smile.  "Sister-in-law."

Motoko says, "A-hem."

Motoko says, "Chickens.  Hatched."  She gets off the bed and
leaves the room.

Jacqueline says, "OOCLy aaaaand we can cut here"

Motoko says, "OOC:  Sure, fine with me, as I know you all haven't
only been up for six and a half hours.  :)"

John says, "OOC Righto.  Hulk go bed now."