"So, you mention the side of your family descended from Finndo and now Benedict wishes to see you." Connner murmurs softly. Conner turns to Misao. "My apologies for keeping you waiting but my sister speaks with His Majesty and may come through to us when she is done."
Misao nods and steps back, keeping an eye on the crowd while patiently waiting for Conner to finish.
Brita nods at her Brothers insight and adds to Random in the other thread, "Ah! So Uncle Benedict Wishes to Know More about Auntie Freyja?"
After that, Brita goes silent for a bit and then whispers to Conner, "Cousin Ossian has Called The King. Our Cousin is With Someone - a Woman who Has Changed – who May Have been Partially Eaten by Dara. The King wants to Consult Her Father..." She pauses, a confused look on her face suddenly clearing. "It is Cousin Meg. The Conversation Appears to be Almost Done, but I Do Not Know if I am Dismissed Yet, Brother."
Brita grins suddenly and whispers to Conner, "The King has Given Permission to Leave. Can you Accept me Now?"
As soon as Conner is ready, she will reach for his hand and step through, appearing through a waterfall of rainbow colors.
Conner smiles and offers his hand pulling Brita back onto the streets of Tyrell City. "Well now we can get started." He turns to Misao. "Greetings cousin. How did you find this place?"
Misao bows to Brita. "Hisashiburi, Burita-san. I hope you are well." Turning back to Conner, they continue, "I walked the Pattern in Rebma. I asked it to send me home, to look for my mother. She was not there. I went looking for her. I walked through a tunnel and found myself here. I could not continue. I am very glad to see you." and indeed, Misao seems greatly relieved.
Conner chuckles. "It would seem you could have saved yourself a trip. Apparently, your Mother arrived at Xanadu looking for you. Our Uncle Benedict is currently returning her home." Conner informs her. "So there is a shadowpath from here to your home. That goes a long way toward explaining how the monks found you."
Brita smiles and bows to Misao in greeting. " MataAimashita, Misao-san!" Brita says - her Goddess Capitalization still coming through even in another language. "You Have Sisters! Crow-Girl Tricksey and Knight-Commander Lilly, Both Fine Defenders in Their Own Unique Ways."
Misao's expression rapidly goes from extremely relieved to extremely startled. They don't seem to know who to address first, as their head swivels from one cousin to the other, almost as if they are watching a tennis match. After a long minute of processing this information, they take a deep breath and turn to Conner first.
"My mother went to Xanadu? And she is returning home? Does she know that I am okay? Does she blame me for...what happened?"
"I relay what Brita told me so I will defer to her." Conner replies.
Misao's head swivels back to Brita. "Sisters?!? Older or younger?" This is apparently very important to them based on the stress they place on the question. "Please tell me more about them!"
Brita responds to Misao's first question with a serious mien. "The Lady Kimiko-san Was Informed that You Had Been Rescued. She was Upset that The King could Not Direct her to You Immediately. She Requested to See Your Rooms, Alone. I Think She Attempted to Scry for You, but Sorcery does Not Work in Reality Xanadu. She also Was Not Pleased that Punishment for Your Kidnapping were Not Hers to Enact."
Her stance and face relax as she continues, "Your New Sisters are Each Wonderful in their Own Way. I Do Not Know their Order Relative To You, but Cousin Lilly has been Known to The Family Since Before the Battle at The Abyss. Her Father is Our Uncle Benedict. She is Thus an Accomplished Warrior."
Brita waves a hand at their surroundings, "Cousin Tricksey is a Fierce Protector from Here in Shadow Tyrell. She Works in these shadows to Protect Those who are Not Strong Enough on their own. She Reminds me of The Tengu."
Misao nods at each statement. They look disappointed that Brita can't answer the order question, but do not address it. After listening to everything Brita has to say, they give one final nod, then speak:
"Thank you, Burita-san. Do you (OOC: including Conner) think it would be advisable for me to return to Hikariguni? You would be welcome to come with me. Or I can come with you."
"For all that we seem to forget the rule when convenient, none of the family should be traveling alone. We have disordered the monks but who knows who else hunts us?" Conner remarks. "So you traveling with us is a given. As for the destination," Conner pauses, "that depends on whether you wish to have the conversation with your mother about your new place in the cosmos now or later."
Brita nods, "We are Safer Traveling Together and You are Safer Traveling with Those of Us who Can Walk Through Shadow. I Would Like to Meet with My Uncle Your Sibling Father Benedict Sooner rather than Later. We could Go to His Avalon First and Confirm Your Mother Was Returned to Your Home."
Misao bows. "I defer to your experience, Burita-san. I have a few items I wish to gather, but I can be ready in half an hour, if that is okay with you."
Assuming Conner and Brita are okay with this, Misao leads them to the place they've been living in...think capsule hotel...and clears out their safe which holds a few valuable and/or sentimental items, wrapping them in silk covers and packing them carefully but quickly into a bundle, which they sling on their back.
While Misao is gathering her things, Conner takes the time to send a few texts to Tricksey's people to let them know that the Crow Girl's nest will be empty for awhile and to keep an eye on it.
Unless Brita or Misao object, Conner intends to drive them to where ever Conner's ship is, and sail it out of Tyrell following the shadow paths towards Avalon.
That works for Brita. She will check in on the news outlets to find out if there is any more info about the Monks and Cousin Abel.
Misao loves the ocean, although they'd rather swim than sail. But they'll follow Conner's lead.
Brita finds that the news feeds are full of talking heads speculating about the withdrawal of the monks from the hospital, where they are going, what made them leave, if the city is unsafe and that's why the monks left, etc.
It's clear that nobody knows anything and yet people want to talk about it around the clock.
Conner gets no response to his texts, but he may not have expected one.
The Lorraine is ready to sail, and Conner thinks Commander Garlic is relieved to be almost underway.
Conner's ship is larger than Skidbladnir, but Brita will slot herself in to the working flow as needed. She will spend time talking with Misao about Traveling Through Shadow, pointing out the Changes that her Brother makes as He Guides the ship across New Waters.
Misao watches, listens, and asks intelligent questions. This is the power they were trying to harness when they left Hikariguni and it's evident that they want to achieve proficiency as soon as they can.
Commander Garlic eases the ship into the shipping lanes, commenting that they seem to have escaped from the customs house mostly unscathed. He sets course "outbound", confident that the Royals will get them where they are going, or to a shadow-path along his rutter.
Conner molds the stuff of shadows, using his years of experience to add and delete elements from the scene. Avalon's water comes first; color first, and the way the light strikes the catspaws where the wind ruffled the water. Waves, spray, and the shadows of fish and sharks came in their turn. The smell of the shore and the sound of the seabirds followed, and over the horizon Conner saw the Silver Towers, rising on their island off the shore of Avalon. The siege of the Silver Towers seems to be lifted, and they still stand.
It's unclear if Ramjollock and his people are still occupying it, but at least no one has thrown them down.
Conner makes a point to explain what he is doing to Misao and importantly, to be able to feel when he does it.
Misao feels a warping of reality, as if the fabric of the Shadow they are in is twisting, and then a release of tension as the change is made and suddenly, they are in a new Shadow.
"It's like a spectrum, is it not? Gradually changing from one thing to another."
Commander Garlic looks over at Conner. "Orders, My Lord?"
Conner muses for a moment. Benedict is as likely to be on any battlefield in Avalon as his capitol. He needed fresh information and the Maghee were not likely to have it.
"Set sail for Methyn's Port." Conner orders and gives the appropriate heading. "We'll dock, take on supplies and see if we can get news of the Protector."
As an aside to Brita and Misao he adds, "The last time I was there, I organized a mass movement of people by commandeering every ship in the harbor. Here's hoping they don't bear a grudge." Conner makes a note to have more bribes on hand.
"Who did You Move? Did it Benefit The Port to See Them Go?" Brita asks.
"It is a long story." Conner replies. "The short version is that we convinced a large group of people that the prophecy of the Silver Towers rising," Conner indicates the towers in the distance, "was about to be fulfilled and not a single member of their clan wished to miss this occasion. I believe their plan was to simply overrun the town and take the ships they needed. I explained the situation to the town's leaders and persuaded them that it was in their best interests to just let the Maghee and MacAlpine clans use their boats, liberally splashed some valuables about to compensate them, and the operation went pretty smoothly." Conner explains. "I have no idea what happened after I left." He adds. "Hence the concern. Still if the Maghee are still in charge I should be in their favor and if the Maghee have left, I am still the Protector's kin. It should work out one way or the other."
Commander Garlic, having consulted the charts from the chart safe, orders the ship to turn about and sails it towards the port.
Misao bows to Conner. "I think I can see that you change the world around you to fit the world that you want it to be. So you have to know where you are going. What happens if you don't know? Secondly, how do you 'make' that change? Finally, how do you choose what to change in what order?"
"Depends on what you are looking for." Conner replies to the first question. "If it something physical like a beautiful beach with a fancy resort and ready company, then you just add those elements until you reach a place that satisfies you." Conner smiles. "If you are looking for something more esoteric like a place where I can find answers about the Moonrider threat, then you hold that desire in the forefront of your mind and shift as it seems appropriate to your Pattern senses." Conner pauses a bit at the second question. "That is much like asking how one walks. Eventually you just do it. The short answer is force of will. A useful construct I once used is to treat it as a guessing game where you try to predict what is just beyond your vision and if you do that with conviction, you will find you always guess right." Conner smiles once more. "As for the order, largely personnel preference but in general broad details first and then progressively more specific. Shifting shadow on the open ocean to a specific location is tricky due to the lack of landmarks. You have to rely on subtle details like the exact shade of the water's color, the smell of the sea air and the types of fish common to the area. This is one of the reasons Amber laid down Shadowpaths to common trading Shadows. It would be very easy to find near copies of a place rather than the place itself otherwise. Though, the more time one of our Family spends in a place, the more Real it becomes. It gives them a sort of attractive force such that we are likely to rediscover places others have been if we don't have a specific destination in mind."
Brita nods in agreement with all that Conner has said. She adds to Misao, "Personal Preference May mean that I would Start with Smells while You Might Start with the Shapes of the Creatures. You make Small Changes, Tweaks, Until it Matches Your Desired End."
Misao nods to each of them. "Thank you very much."
The port of Methryn comes into view; a shallow bay at the end of series of glacially carved valleys on a mountainous island. The land is green and large enough that there are probably people who don't make their living from the sea. But not many.
The port is not particularly empty, although some of the boats seem to be newer. Two head towards the Lorraine.
Garlic looks at the ships. "Revenue Cutter," he says.
"Prepare to receive them and pay whatever tax and bribe seems reasonable to you." Conner instructs Garlic.
Conner feels the touch of an incoming Trump contact.
Conner seemed about to say more when his face stilled in concentration. "Bide a moment." He tells them walking to place his back facing the deck of the ship before accepting the contact.
"Impeccable as always, cousin." Conner replies to the air with his trademark smile. "How fares things with you? I got a partial update from Merlin not too long ago."
Brita notes Conner's stance and smile, noting no obvious tension. She notes as an aside to Misao, "He Speaks to Another Cousin via Trump Contact." She then turns to monitor and assist Garlic as needed in the Cutter interactions.
Misao nods at Brita's statement and joins her to wait for the opportunity to disembark.
Conner pauses for a moment. "Has there been an escalation of events with the Tritons?" Conner asks. "Last I knew this 'conflict' was happening where we could not see."
Commander Garlic and his bosun have helped a port official aboard the Lorraine. They are near the stern of the boat, and talking. The officials from the revenue cutter seem to be interested in the cargo and passengers and other questions. The Lorraine is clearly the biggest ship in the harbor.
Brita has drifted towards Commander Garlic and the Port Official. She will not interfere, but she is there for support as needed. If there are any Fees mentioned, she may step in to offer payment, given that they have directed The Lorraine to These Shores. As the talk dies down, she will ask after any news of Protector Benedict as she has been summoned by him.
Misao is more or less along for the ride at the moment; their experience of ocean going is that they transform themselves and swim through the water so they really don’t understand docking procedures or port officials, so they are just watching and learning.
The port official is indeed looking for Pilot fees and also to have a harbor pilot on board to direct the ship to a berth. He's deeply suspicious of a ship that is not a merchant and not an ally and is a warship, belonging to a foreign prince. But adequate funds seem to make him reasonable.
"The Protector is on his islands and we are on ours. We are not at war, nor are we allied with anyone fighting against him. If you wish to take on cargo or passengers for Avalon, the port can arrange that, for a standard fee."
Brita gets the feeling that the fees are set higher based on the Lorraine's ability to pay more.
The look of concentration leaves Conner's face and he walks back over. "That was Celina." He tells them. "She wanted some advice around Rebman affairs."
Brita nods, "Is Queen-Cousin Celina Returned to Watery Rebma?" It is sort of rhetorical just to orient Misao to another cousin.
Misao says. "Serena-joo was there when I left Rebma. She was the one who gave me permission to walk the Pattern." They turn to Conner. "I hope she is well?"
The pilot takes his fee and his instructions from the Assistant Harbor Master. The excisemen leave the Lorraine and the pilot flashes a sheepish grin.
"Don't mind him. Unless you are unloading cargo, we should proceed to the 3rd red buoy to starboard. Oh, and can you raise my ensign so that the port knows you've paid your pilot fee?"
As Garlic begins to conclude his business with the Port Official, Brita will step forward and ask " Is there News of Protector Benedict? I Have Been Summoned by Him."
The Port official looks at her, thinking. "We have no quarrel with the Protectorate, and are neither at war with him nor allied with him against any of his enemies. I have heard no news of him, but that he might be hunting pirates to the north."
Brita thanks the official for the information. She waits for Conner to decide what they are doing next.
Once they have answered the questions, the Port officials return to their boat and row towards the shore.
Conner gives instructions for Garlic to dock long enough to take on fresh food and water and get maps of the area then to set sail towards the Protector's lands heading north if possible. (Rich is less familiar with the geography than Conner.)
Addressing Misao, Conner replies, "Celina is well and preparing to dive into Triton matters once more."
Misao bows in acknowledgement.
Commander Garlic makes arrangements to dock and talks to the pilot. The pilot has a cousin who can provide supplies and the port office can provide maps for a nominal fee. It will take a few hours to reprovision the ship and does Conner wish to give the men their liberty of the port?
There's a nominal fee for that, which the pilot will also accept.
Conner glances at Garlic. "Keep the men close but give them their shore leave."
"Very good, Sir. We'll be ready to sail in four hours, on the tide."
Misao has been paying close attention to the people on shore. As soon as the port official has departed, they shift their clothing to appear more like a better-quality version of the attire of Avalon.
Brita notes the change with a nod of approval. She turns back to Conner and asks, "Shall We go Ashore As Well?"
Garlic addresses to his officers. "Port watch has loading duty, until watch change, then switch with Starboard. Anyone late back from Liberty will either be fined or left behind. Junior Officers rotate to shore with your watches, and the MPs from the opposite watches assigned to shore patrol duties. This is a rough port, and I don't want to have to slow up his lordship bailing your sailors out and you don't want to do that either.
"Number One, you see if you can keep them from totally robbing us for supplies. Do your magic, Lir knows I hate that. And see if we can get decent wine here."
"Yes, Sir," replies the Lieutenant, who then proceeds to implement the orders.
Conner nods his approval to Garlic's orders and answers Misao's question. "We might as well. I did not get a chance to see much of the port that last time I was here what with the mass migration. It might be interesting to see if there is any reason to have stopped here."
After they have docked, Brita disembarks and turns to Misao and Conner with a mischievous smile. "Where shall We Go First? Shopping or the Local Alehouse for Some Gossip?"
Misao displays their outfit. "I think I could be of some use in collecting information, while you complete your mission," they say to Conner.
The town is disappointingly small, and focuses on the business of exporting materials of war, including foodstuffs, shipbuilding, and repairs and the mercenary trace. They had arrived just too late to be in the town's main tavern when the brawling started, and it didn't seem conducive to actually sailing today to go in and get arrested with the locals. The market has a variety of goods from workmanlike weapons for outfitting companies to arms and armor of reasonably high quality.
Even in its sheath, Halosydne attracts more attention than any of the cousins.
After some time visiting the market stalls and mercenary tents of Methryn's town, the three return to the Lorraine, with not much more than trinkets for souvenirs.
The ship is stocked and is ready to depart. The pilot is aboard and the ship eases out of the harbor at the appointed time.
Misao takes the opportunity and privacy of their cabin to finish tweaking their form until they are indistinguishable from the locals. If either Brita or Conner appear curious, they simply say:
"During my time in the city, I... discovered what happens to those who do not fit in."
And they leave it at that.
A sad Truth. Brita will clasp Misao's shoulder and say, "I See You."
It's not a long trip to Avalon, the famed "Isle of Apples". The port they land in is not quite in view of the Silver Towers, but Conner knows where they are from here, which is not far.
It's a short ride from their next port of call to the Castle of Avalon, located on a cliff side and surrounded by orchards. The three riders are the subject of some attention as they head from the port to the castle, but no one accosts them.
Eventually they arrive at a castle that looks formidable and yet also as if it has been attacked more than once.
The guards are on a casual alert and it's not a surprise to anyone that the party is challenged as they approach.
"Annouce yourselves, please. Friend or foe?"
Brita calls back, "Lord Conner, Protector of Aqueous Rebma; Honored Misao, Heir of Fabled Hikariguni, and Lady-Ranger Brita, Purifier of Asgardian Waters. We are Here at the Summons of Prince-Protector Benedict." She does try to mute the Voice of the Goddess, but she is Asgardian and can likely still be heard on the other end of the castle.
A slight pursing of Conner's lips betrays his feelings about how they were announced but he says nothing.
Brita gives him a wince of apology.
"Welcome, your Lordships, to Castle Avalon. The Castellan will see you at the Castle."
The gate is opened for them and the voice that called out seems to be an older military officer. "The Castellan has been notified of your arrival. Would you like an escort into the keep?"
The keep has all the subtlety of a freight train and seems large enough to hold a small army. The Castellan is quickly located and introduces himself. "I am Lynch, My Lords and Ladies. The Protector is out riding but should be back within the hour. Is there anything you wish from the hospitality of Avalon?"
"A place to rest and refresh ourselves while we wait for the Protector." Conner replies. "The last time I was here I was present at the raising of the Silver Towers. I would appreciate being caught up on local events since then." He adds.
Brita will follow along at this point.
Misao bows politely to the Castellan and listens attentively.
The Castellan brings them to a sparsely decorated but cozy room with chairs and a bar with drinks and light refreshments. It's the kind of place a visiting diplomat (like Conner) would refresh himself before talking war and peace with the Protector.
"The Silver Towers still stand, and immediate attempts to dispose of them seem to have come to naught. They are the reason the Protector is on patrol; he wishes to see the extent to which the mercenaries are able to use Avalon against the Towers.
"We've had few visitors since then, although there is a representative of their Righ, Ramjollock, here as well. I'm sure you'll meet him this evening, if you do not rush off."
The Castellan will answer questions as needed, and then leave the three to their own devices.
Misao selects a plate full of food and then sits at a table, taking out drawing supplies they acquired in Tyrell and begins to sketch what they've seen of Avalon so far while daintily eating.
Brita thanks the Castellan as she, too, makes a plate. She notes to Misao, "You Can Sketch me As Well - Start Learning How to Create a Trump Image of Family." Then she settles down to eat.
Misao pauses and looks up. "I made a Trump of Otoosan. He was very proud of me." Their voice wavers between happy and sad. "I will do my best to create one of you, if you wish."
And, given permission, they start sketching Brita.
Trump sketching can be undertaken. High quality materials, a subject who is present and who knows what Misao is doing, all will be positive modifiers, but it still will be a while before it comes together. Misao thinks it will take more than a day to complete, but they can definitely get a good start in a watch, or however long it will be before Benedict arrives.
The food is filling and tasty. There seem to be a lot of apples in pretty much all the food.
Misao looks up after some time. They don't know how long it has been, but that's not uncommon when making art and beauty.
Benedict has arrived. He is wearing riding clothes with an open jacket. His eyes scan the room. "Brita. I see you brought your brother. And Misao, who I have not yet met."
Brita rises from her seat to great her Uncle with a small bow. "Yes," she responds simply. "Cousin Misao was in Shadow Tyrell when I was Relaying Information to My Brother. They Both Agreed to Accompany Me to See You."
Conner rises and inclines his head as is proper to Family in their own domain. "Greetings Uncle. As it happens, I was travelling towards Avalon before I learned of Brita's need to visit here and heard of Misao's travels causing concern to her Mother. I thought it best to assist on both fronts."
Misao also rises and bows "We meet for the first time. I am of Hikariguni, the child of Kimiko-dono, and of Xanadu, the child of Lucas-dono. I am well. I hope you are well."
Benedict bows back, slightly, as befits a King. "We meet for the first time. Welcome to Avalon, Misao. I am Benedict-heika. Your mother was here recently, but I have taken her back to her shadow, Hikariguni. Do you want to meet your half-sister? My daughter Lilly is in the castle if you are inclined to meet with her."
Misao blinks in shock. "My mother? Does she know... does she know I am well?"
Benedict nods. "She's aware that you were with Random and walked the pattern, I believe."
Misao nods, obviously relieved. "Arigatoo gozaimasu, Benedict-heika."
"I would be happy to meet my sister. Is she older or younger than I am?"
Benedict nods. "You'll have to work that out between yourselves. I think she's likely older, but perhaps not very much older. It depends on if you are asking about life experience or birth order. Time is not constant through shadow, so those may be different. To finally set it, you would need to ask Kimiko."
Misao nods again. "Again, I thank you. Is my sister available?"
"She is," he says. "Please ask my servant Darter to take you to her. Darter is in the antechamber." He takes off a ring. "Give her this token from me, please." He hands it to Misao.
Benedict is very economical in his facial expressions, as if 'hard to read' were a defensive manoever. "Conner, thank you for coming. Brita, do you know why I asked you to come here?"
Brita glances at Conner briefly but quickly turns back to her Uncle and says, "No, Your Magesty of Fruitful Avalon-Sir."
"'Uncle' will do, as we are all family here. Now, do you recall what the last thing you said to Kimiko was? You said 'You are Worse than Auntie Freyja!'" He doesn't imitate Brita's voice, but it sounds pretty insulting in his normal voice.
"Kimiko may not know who Freyja of the Slain is, but she certainly interpreted your tone. She would have felt it within her perogrative to call you out for the insult."
Benedict looks to Conner, but keeps speaking to Brita. "Had that happened, what might the diplomatic consequences if you had won, having both insulted Kim and then humiliated her?"
Brita is silent for a bit, processing. "Uncle. Although it Did Not Happen, I Will Apologize to Structured-Hikariguni Lady Kimiko-san for Her Children's Sake. I was..." a pause as she searches for a word "Surprised by her... Uneven Reactions to the Knowledge and Re-Introduction to Her Children."
Conner nods in approval to the first part of Brita's statement. He is satisfied that she has gotten the point. He waits to see if Benedict is.
Benedict nods. "An apology seems sensible. I intervened to prevent Kimiko from raising an issue. As her host, it was, per her standards, acceptable for me to take offense on her behalf. I did tell her I would not be engaging you in an honor duel, which was what she assumed at first. We agreed that would not be fair."
He takes a breath. "If you have an adequately strong relationship with Misao, perhaps you can ask them how to apologize to their mother."
Conner nods in agreement. "From what little I have seen, things are highly formalized in their culture. Best to seek advice rather than cause another insult. Thank you for your intervention Uncle." Conner adds. "The style of Random's court has us used to acting en familie. It is a good reminder that different rules apply with those who are not."
Brita gives another small, somewhat militaristic bow to Benedict, "I Will speak with Cousin Misao After They have had Time to Meet Their Sister. Do You have Aught Else for Us, Uncle?"
Benedict considers, and says, "there is an embassy here from the Silver Towers. Would you meet with them? I am not ready to commit to one side or another in their war, but I would be interested in what they have to say. As my sister's children, you can meet them with appropriate dignity but without committing Avalon."
If either Brita or Conner thought that Benedict was too meticulous a planner to extemporize, this request should put that thought to rest.
Conner nods at the request. "Happy to assist Uncle. I was with their leader Ramjollock when the Towers rose so they are likely to view me favorably as a listening ear." Conner moves to one of the tables and picks up a leather bound book with folded pieces of paper stuck in it. "You will find this of interest Uncle. There is a system of Shadowpaths linking Paris and Avalon by sea. I met Bleys in Shadow Tortuga where he was ambushing ships with connections to the Klybesian monks and then following their rutters and maps to trace the paths. He continued from there towards Shadow Earth. I traced the other way and ended up in Shadow Tyrell. Here is a copy of the information I gathered on my journey." Conner offers the book to Benedict.
Benedict takes the book. "Fascinating. I was aware of Bleys' mission, but not how it was going. I've been to Earth, but not Tyrell. Both places where they can do genetic research, if I recall correctly." He opens the book. "I'll take a look through this, Conner. Thank you."
Conner nods a "you're welcome" to his Uncle. "Shadow Tyrell was a monk stronghold for genetic research. It has been recently abandoned by them now that we have focused in on it. One further point of interest is that there appears to be a shadowpath from Tyrell to Hikariguni. Misao walked it to arrive there."
Brita nods in agreement to Conner's acceptance of the task. She waits while Conner concludes his business on the rutter before asking, "Do we Need to Change Before Meeting with The Silver Tower Embassy?"
Benedict looks at Brita. "You're fine. The Silver Towers are resurgent, but they are a first-generation kingdom, with the men and women who won a war in charge of it. They have yet to develop an attachment to formality. Give them three generations for that."
"But you can change or freshen up if you wish you."
"As our Uncle says, they are still a rough and ready people. I think we shall be fine as is." Conner assures Brita.
Benedict nods and they depart. The Avalonian Castellan takes Brita and Conner to a side-room in the castle. A woman rises from the chair and is introduced as Pochle. She is not dressed as a diplomat would be in Amber or Rebma, but rather more like a traveler.
"Well met, your honors. I come from the Righ, Ramjollock, and bring good wishes from our island home to the north of Avalon." It sounds as if she's memorized that introduction.
"Greetings, Pochle." Conner greets her and offers his arm to clasp. "I am Lord Conner of Xanadu and Rebma and this is my sister, Lady Brita. The Protector is our Uncle and bid us speak to you. How fares the Silver Towers? I have not seen them since the first day your Righ stepped on their shores."
Brita visibly relaxes at the sight of the emissary and her smile of greeting is warm as she mimics Conner's greeting when her turn comes. She glances around to make sure that hospitality in the form of food and drink has been offered. If not, or if the offerings look in need of refreshing, she offers to order some refreshments.
The woman hasn't tried the food, but has a beverage. It smells of apples, but most of Avalon does, at least faintly. She doesn't seem to be drinking from it.
"Thank you, your honors. The Silver Towers still stand, and they are a Wonder for the Ages that I never believed I would see in my life. The Righ is my clansman, and I support him even above the loyalty all owe the Ard-Righ of Tara. He was also, before the torc passed to him, my teacher as a child.
"We know so little of the Protector, and I was not aware that he had siblings. But we wish to be good neighbors and I am pleased to meet the children of his kin."
"I am Unfamiliar with The Silver Towers. Can you Tell Me About Them and Your Clan?" Brita asks as she gestures back to the seating so they can all be comfortable.
Conner pours himself a drink and takes a sip to put Pochle at ease. He is curious to hear the answer to Brita's question.
"I can tell you're a stranger," she says, not unkindly. "For the Silver Towers are the most famous buildings in ancient history. Long ago the land of Avalon was subjugated by a Sorcerer King. The Sons of Alpin, five clans all related to the first Ard-Righ, were not immune and while at first he demanded only tribute, eventually he wanted soldiers and then even more. Some say he kidnapped over a thousand women to be his harem. And yet, because of his magics, no one could approach to strike him down. Finally, the High King Delphinus was taxed beyond his breaking point, and with the counsel of his people, discovered a way to break the Sorcerer King and cast him down.
"The Sorcerer King had taken the Silver towers and Maghee-town beneath it and turned it into his own palace." She tells the story simply, but it's clear she felt the slight of it, even centuries later.
"The Maghee committed powerful magics and sunk the tower, the town, and the entire island. They passed into history from there, and the Maghee diaspora began. We were a people without a home and without friends. For even though we had given people their freedom, it was a hard freedom to live with, and while there was no more Sorcerer King, there were plenty of would-be tyrants and petty warlords to be found. The times after The Demon Corwin were also hard times for many peoples."
"Indeed." Conner nods. "So it is for many that live in dark times." Conner looks pointedly at Brita and gives a slight shake of the head to hopefully communicate not to mention our link to the Demon Corwin. "I am told about a prophecy fulfilled by one called Camelopardus. Can you tell us that part of the tale?"
Brita, who had no intention of mentioning their Uncle, settles in to hear more of this intriguing history.
"Ramjollock tried to teach me ancient history, but it's all a jumble. He knows more. But Cameleopardis Findanus was the Ard Righ, sometimes called the Last King or the Lost King. He was three generations removed from the King who ordered the Silver Towers to fall, and may have been the last man to see them stand, ere the present age. He did not pass his torc on to his sons, and without it, the High Kingship of Tara was contested, and with Tara being no more, our Seeds of Alpin splintered.
"This part I do know, for it concerns prophesy, and the gift runs in my line. Cameleopardis the Righ said that the Sons of Alpin would not reunite until his heir ascended to the throne of Tara in the Silver Towers of the King, and that Cameleopardis' heir would be known because he would bear the Royal Torc of Alpin the King of Kings.
"I was not in the room when the Torc was passed to Ramjollock, but I was in Methryn's Port and we came to the Towers in the flotilla of the Righ, and we saw him enter the tower and take the throne." She beams. "I have never seen such an ancient prophecy come true so powerfully. It was as if the hand of the gods touched us as a people.
"And then the enemies of the Maghees decended upon us like fang fish upon an injured deer in the water. But we were not without strength at that point." Pochle seems grimly satisfied with what happened, whatever it was.
"It is our hope that the Protector of Avalon will be interested in being our friend and trading partner."
"I see." Conner nods. "What trade goods do you offer?" He asks. "And what enemies might he anger if he chooses you as a friend?"
"While most of these isles are focused on either arms or armies, we are a diverse population of craftsmen and tradesfolk," she replies. "We can provide foodstuffs, shipbuilding materials and expertise, finely made goods, and we are amazing with horses." She is not exactly humble, but it's not really a matter of pride, just an honest trade assessment.
"It's really a matter for the tradesfolk to try and see what they can buy and sell, but markets on both sides would benefit both islands." She pauses. "And if the Protector has specific needs that you would like us to meet, we would certainly be amenable to discussing them."
Brita is listening for the response, but she adds, "Who were the Maghee Enemies that Descended Upon You? How Many Still Exist?"
She nods. "We were a people without a home, and our strength and peoples were scattered after the Silver Towers fell. The period after the fall was not a golden age, but a period of turmoil. The old wrongs were undone, but people arose to create new ones. As they do. There is no such end as 'happily ever after', just new challenges. But the Ard Righ did the right thing.
"Being a displaced people, we became travelers and lived on the margins and on sufferance. It was a hardscrabble existence that birthed enmity. Many of the descendants of the petty and not-so-petty warlords and dictators that followed in the succession wars are unwilling to entertain the renaissance of the kingdom that once toppled the world-emperor that was the Demon King.
"In other words, people who are already opposed by the Protector. We are a threat to continued injustice," she says, "or so the oppressors think."
Pochle deflates a bit. "I wish we were. I hope in time we become so."
Brita glances at Conner. “That is an Honorable Goal, One that The Protector Could Assist With. My Brother and I Will Relay your Proposals to Our Uncle.”
Darter opens the door to a room that seems to be mostly an armory, or perhaps a museum of weapons. At the far end of it there is a woman sitting at a low table, sharpening a sword. She rises gracefully when Misao and Darter enter. She is dressed for riding and fighting, not unlike Benedict's retainers.
Darter announces Misao and leaves.
Lilly smiles. "Misao, I am pleased to meet you for the first time. Cousin Paige told me about our new cousins, but I was unable to come to Xanadu. I didn't expect to meet you for some time. I seldom get far from the Tecys or Avalon these days."
If Misao looks closely, Lilly somewhat favors their mother. Morseo than Tricksey, even.
Misao is currently presenting as a more masculine figure, garbed in Avalon-typical clothing that is practical and functional, albeit of higher quality than the average townsman would wear. Their black hair is short, with the silver lock they always sport, and their eyes are also silver, but they don’t appear otherwise noticeably different from an Avalonian.
Misao bows deeply. "We meet for the first time, oneesan. I am of Hikariguni, the child of Kimiko-dono, and of Xanadu, the child of Lucas-dono. I am well. I hope you are well."
While waiting for Lily's response, Misao takes in the collection of weapons with interest.
Lilly bows in return. She seems to have adopted less formal address of Xanadu. "Nii-san, you may call me Lilly. Age relationships are strange in a family who live at different time rates. I am well. Are you interested in weapons? My papa. My adoptive father made several of these."
She seems pleased that Misao is taking an interest. If Misao looks carefully, Lilly has swordswoman's calluses on her hands.
Misao smiles as their eyes light up. "I have practiced many weapons from my home Shadow."
If there are any weapons similar to traditional Japanese weapons (katana, tachi, naginata, yari, kama, kusurigama, or nunchaku), Misao will point them out.
"Would you like a spar, sister?"
Misao deliberately leaves the choice of weapon to Lilly, as the challenged has first choice in Hikariguni, and also because they are genuinely curious to see if Lilly will choose a weapon that Misao is familiar with... or not.
"I would be pleased to," replies Lilly, who seems quite happy. She stands opens a door to what looks like a training room. "Would you prefer wooden practice swords or live blades?"
There are a number of bokken and swords in the armory. They mostly look like katanas. "If you would prefer live, I can recommend that blade on the stand." It is clearly a prized weapon, but Lilly does not seem to be feeling particularly possessive of it at the moment.
Lilly hands her the blade and it is exceptionally well balanced and light. Lilly takes a blade for herself as well and begins swinging it to loosen up.
Misao takes the time to fully appreciate the prized blade before handing it reverently back to Lilly with a bow.
Since this is a friendly spar, Misao is happy to use bokken, but ultimately accepts whatever Lilly hands them.
Lilly ultimately returns her sword to the stand. "She would give me too much of an advantage, and not enough for you, since you do not know her." Apparently Lilly's blade is addressed with feminine pronouns.
She takes two bokken. "We should be able to test our mettle with these." Who will prevail is clear early on, as Lilly is the most skilled swordswoman Misao has ever met. Lilly seems to be enjoying herself and, like any true master, is generous in praising her student and encouraging them. Several times, Lilly stops the bout to ask Misao to show her how they did a particular move, and then uses it. "Let me show you a pattern I learned from the Tecys," she says.
Misao enjoys both the learning and the teaching. They offer to show Lilly the styles of fighting associated with the kitsune and the oni. If Lilly accepts, Misao will back off, drop their weapon(s), and transform into one form, then the other, going through some unarmed practice routines in each form. The style of the kitsune resembles the southern snake style of kung fu, while the style of the oni resembles the leopard style of kung fu. After the demonstration, Misao resumes their previous form and regains their weapon(s).
Misao can't match Lilly in training, speed, endurance, or knowledge of sword craft. Even when Misao can predict where Lilly will go next, they are unable to stop their sister. Were she to go to Hikariguni, she would easily be the top swordswoman in all the islands.
She also doesn't seem to get tired. "Thank you, Misao-san. I once heard that two of our uncles dueled for twenty-five hours, until one had to prepare for an assignation. While I have no such plans, I do not want to steal you from your other duties."
Misao bows formally, but they can’t entirely conceal their happiness. "Arigatoo, neesan! This was very enjoyable! You would give a pack of kamaitachi a challenge."
Lilly also bows, less formally, but with the grace of a natural born courtier.
"You may address me in the Amber way, my sister. I am simply 'Lilly'. I have no idea what a pack of Kamaitachi are, but if they need a challenge, I would endeavor to be one." She is also smiling.
"A kamaitachi is a yokai from my home Shadow that has the shape of a large dog, with the spines of a hedgehog, wings, and sharp, sickle-like claws. It moves as if riding on a whirlwind and can inflict deep wounds. They usually appear in packs of at least three and are very unpredictable."
Lilly nods. "Will you be staying long in Avalon?"
"As long as Brita-san and Konner-san, I believe. I was informed that Amberites are not supposed to be traveling alone due to a threat against us."
Misao then describes their encounter with Chew and what they know of the Amberite response to it.
They conclude with "I was hoping to find Kimiko-dono and reassure her that I am safe, but I am told that she knows that now. So I am intending to travel back to Xanadu. I have a request for Tenno Heika.
"But please, sister, tell me more about yourself. And about Avalon."
"There's not much to tell about me. I was raised in the Tecys, which is a community to the south of here, in the land of Chosan. My Poppa and Mamma were retainers of The Protector, and were raising his child because he could not do so alone. I learned everything I know about how to behave from Momma and everything I know about swords from Poppa. I have travelled to Amber and Xanadu and Paris and I have fought wars both here and in Chaos with my Father and my cousins and Uncles and Aunts.
"I spend most of my time mastering the art of swords fighting. I am, I am afraid, somewhat dull."
"Oh, no, neesan! No one should call someone as dynamic as you are in combat dull!"
Misao's expression is playfully scandalized in a "don't you say mean things about my big sis" way.
"Tell me of yourself and your home, Misao."
Misao's expression grows wistful. "Hikariguni... is a land of gods and ghosts. Kami and yokai. Kami are powerful and wise. Yokai are mischievous and playful. Most of them are shapeshifters, as I am. I have... become aware... that not every Shadow... or... everybody... finds that to be normal, or good. For me, it's a way of being. I can do no other. I hope....someday to have that accepted.
"Hikariguni is a beautiful place, where nature and beings are part of each other. Kimiko-dono rules Hikariguni as the Supreme Spirit of Earth. She bore me to Lucas-dono, and intended me to be her successor. Otoosan.... was obviously not of Hikariguni... but he never talked about his home. He never told me about...". Misao gestures vaguely, "all this.
"Kimiko-dono sent me to be educated by the five other great kami of Hikariguni. I learned much from each of them. Otoosan also taught me... mainly the art of painting Trumps.
"I hope I can show you my home someday, neesan."
"I hope for that, too. I fought in the war, in the Courts of Chaos at Father's side. The enemy were shapeshifters. They had to be taught that we could not be attacked with impunity. Many died, and many in Amber lost their lives. The King was killed. The people are easily frightened, and it has not be more than a decade since the invaders reached into the very forest. Our cousin Solange lost her brother in the war in the Forest of Arden. That fight continues and so the people of Amber and Xanadu are not at ease with shapeshifters. It is hard to be trusted in those circumstances." Lilly frowns thoughtfully. "But it should pass, with time and as people get to know you.
"Would you do me the honor of painting a trump of me? So that we can stay in touch after you travel onwards?"
Misao smiles. "It would be my honor, neesan. Do you have time now?"
If the answer is yes, Misao sends for their baggage, which contains their Trump supplies, and starts working. They will work as long as Lilly allows or until someone else interrupts.
The baggage is sent for and a corner of the armory with good light is cleared for Misao to work. Lilly is exceptionally strong and doesn't wait for porters to move furniture.
Misao's goal is to eventually have a sealed working Trump. Misao will also offer Lily their Trump as a method of contact for the moment.
Lilly is honored to accept the trump.
Misao finds that painting Lilly is more difficult than painting herself. Misao starts with several preliminary sketches or the non-trump kind, getting ideas for how to approach a trump of their sister.
Lilly seems comfortable talking during the session, or sitting still when required. She tells Misao of the war in the Courts of Chaos, the return of the army, the coronation and the fight there, and several of her other adventures.
Last modified: 15 June 2025