Conner pulls Jerod through. "Hello, Jerod. Welcome to the war." Conner smiles at his cousin. Jerod finds himself in a nondescript tent with a map table and figurines arrayed for a battle simulation around Rebma. Merlin is standing off to one side. "Llewella is in charge of the city defenses and is happy to coordinate with us against Huon." Conner informs Merlin and then turns back to Jerod. "How have been Jerod? Little news has reached us of your journeys since you left."
Jerod's gaze sweeps the tent, map table and all, committing the images to memory in an idle, almost reflexive action. Just what one would expect from family when arriving somewhere new. He is wearing an officer's uniform of the Guard, a battlefield design as opposed to the more formal Court-style uniforms worn when on parade. Once his hand is restored from Conner's grip, he shifts his spear to his right hand, making himself more comfortable.
He nods briefly towards Merlin. "I've got a message for you, from Benedict." he says briefly. Enough notice that Merlin will know Jerod wants to speak to him, but leaving it up to Merlin to respond at his convenience.
Conner wishes he could be a fly on the wall for that message.
"I've been in command of the Guard looking for my sister and flying the flag." Jerod says. "She went off on some silly quest for Moire, looking for something called the Eye of Rebma and disappeared. When I heard that something was on the move down here, I figured it was Khela, especially when I had orders to avoid Triton contact. Since Khela can command them I figured she ran into her. Otherwise, at the very least, Loreena's Triton would have returned to report back."
It takes of all of Conner's training in detachment to not visibly start at the mention of the Eye of Rebma. His face freezes for a moment before slipping into a more relaxed smile. "Your suppositions are correct. Loreena is here and her Triton has joined Khela's forces. I believe she was imprisoned until we arrived. Celina gave her a limited parole and more comfortable living arrangements." Conner informs his cousin. "You make me wonder if Loreena being captured was the objective. Sending people out on silly quests, as you put it, is not really Moire's way, is it?"
Jerod's expression adjusts subtly, like a predatory animal who sees a change in his environment, one that he had not anticipated. He's sensitive enough to notice a deliberate freezing of a diplomat's face when a conversation is taking place. He was taught the same behaviour in Court and recognizes its value. And that during his conversation the only thing that could have been new to Conner was the mention of the Eye.
"Moire normally doesn't." Jerod says. "My mother tried to send me out to the edge of Seaward with the Guard, thinking this would keep me out of trouble, so I suspect they were looking long term. We both know that would never really work though with me.
"My sources told me that the Eye was an item of mythology, the usual layers of folklore stories and treasure chest tales wrapped around it. They dismissed it and I was not inclined at the time to consider it feasible to pursue." he says. "I have a feeling I should revise that position. My sister is here, you say. As her brother, it would be within my rights to verify the conditions of her parole. I'm sure she could provide considerable details concerning her search."
That Jerod is leaving such an obvious opening for Conner to respond can only be deliberate. He is delineating a line of options, if Conner actually has something to offer, vs Jerod doing some digging. Jerod appears to be comfortable with either option.
Merlin has managed to move unobtrusively in a way that places Conner between himself and Jerod and himself between Jerod and the tent's entry.
Which leaves Conner as a shield for Jerod should things go bad. Jerod has no problem with this. He waits patiently to hear any reply that Conner might choose to make, or not.
No doubt that is Merlin's plan as well. For his part, Conner is confident in his ability to get out of the way fast enough to be a very poor shield should it come to it. Aside from floating a bit to make sure has them both in his field of vision, Conner doesn't let it concern him.
Mainly because he is performing a quick risk/benefit scenario in his head. Conner wants more information on the Eye and Loreena is much more likely to tell Jerod than Conner. Llewella is no doubt a better source of information but has not been forthcoming about the mirror. Could be the old, "you never asked," defense of course. Perhaps some of the truth will serve.
"I am certain that she could," Conner smiles. "and I hope that she will though I more interested in the stories and legends around the Eye than the details of her search. You see, I know where it is and I have some inkling of how to use it and what it can do. What I lack is how exactly it fits into all this. If this wasn't a wild minnow chase for Loreena then Moire truly thought the Eye could turn the tide and that intrigues me very much."
"I'm sure it would. Though you no doubt will understand that the last thing I would do is offer information on a Rebman artifact to a redhead. Especially one who's loyalty is not bound to Rebma's people." Jerod says, leaning in slightly with an equally diplomatic, and meaningless smile. "Loyalty being an important factor here, I'm sure you understand my position."
But Conner's smile is no longer bland or meaningless. It is amused and slightly mocking. "Of course Jerod. I bow to your superior knowledge of the local political situation."
"In the meantime, since the Eye is a wild minnow chase, I need to speak to Khela. There is the matter of Huon that I have come to help deal with."
"Of course, your Grace." Conner smiles. "This way." Conner floats to the entry of the tent and addresses one of the two Tritons guarding it.
Merlin moves to the entrance ahead of Conner, mumbles an apology and slips out.
"Inform Her Majesty that Duke Jerod of Rebma has arrived and seeks an audience with her." Conner turns back to Jerod. "Shall we follow along behind? I doubt she will keep you waiting long."
"One hopes." Jerod says. "Lead on."
Conner leads Jerod to an open water commissary of sorts. Khela is standing at a table with a Triton and two humans. There are bowls of food before all of them. "Ah, General Conner! You keep the most amazing company! Please introduce me to your cousin, we have not formally met."
At her side, in a hangar that looks to allow very easy access, is a thin-bladed sword of shining green metal with the oh-so-familiar traces of the pattern upon it. She wears it like a woman who knows how to use it.
Conner bows slightly to Khela and gestures toward Jerod as he rises. "Majesty, allow me to present Jerod, Duke of Rebma, Prince of Amber, son of Eric and Rilsa." Conner ends his recital with a smile. "He has come by way of Princess Llewella to offer his assistance with Huon." Conner informs her. "He would also like to see his sister and verify that she has been treated well."
Jerod provides a suitable short bow as befits protocol for one in charge, though not necessarily bestowed of majestic rank. He remains silent however, waiting patiently.
Khela acknowledges his bow and steps forward. "Cousin, I'm pleased to meet you at last. I recall your father fondly." She turns to one of her officers. "Please send someone for Loreena."
Given that Dad never mentioned Khela, Jerod takes this with a grain of salt but says nothing in reply. This can be pursued later.
She turns back towards Jerod. "That will take a few moments. Please join us. My advisors and I would be quite interested in your proposal relating to our Uncle who threatens Rebma."
While she speaks, Jerod takes the opportunity to look over the individuals currently with Khela. He does not hide this behaviour, but it is also not threatening. He is interested in a first glance impression, an idea as to the caliber of individuals Khela has gathered to herself and whether they will be a likely asset or a hindrance. Tritons and sorcerers are impressive, but power is useless without the proper focus or intent.
Keeping in mind that no man sounds like a fool who does not first open his mouth, Jerod takes what measure of them he can. They are serious men who are more interested in appraising what Jerod brings to the table than in fighting over who takes what position at it. They seem, by dress, to be men of the Seaward. It is very likely that if Jerod knew their names, he would know their families.
So it comes about that Jerod provides his answer a few moments later, once he has finished collecting his impressions. "My intelligence reports indicate that Prince Huon is coming to acquire Cneve's blade, and that he intends to use it to strengthen himself in an old feud with Prince Bleys. This is the most probable outcome based on the existing information, though it is not the only possible one given the paucity of data available.
"There is some question as to whether Huon is operating under old information and is unaware of the changes that have occurred since war that was instigated by Prince Brand's treachery, such as King Oberon's death. If such is the case, an opportunity presents itself.
"King Random has authorized me to make contact with Prince Huon and to determine his intentions, with a view to working out an accomodation with regards to the animosity that exists between Bleys and Huon. Given the threat to Rebma, I have taken the liberty as commander of the Guard of assuming that same mandate. In addition, King Corwin of Paris, and Amber's warmaster Prince Benedict have indicated their support for my endeavours and are prepared to intercede if Huon prefers not to engage with Random, whom he may not be comfortable with.
"None are not eager to return to the old ways of brotherly conflict and would prefer a peaceful solution, though all have indicated they will act however necessary to prevent a conflict from arising that would threaten the stability of the other kingdoms and by whatever means necessary.
"I spoke with your mother and she agreed it would be advantageous to seek you out, since you are closer to the environs where Huon is located and could provide greater support for the mission than she can from Rebma. The mission will be twofold. To determine if Huon is in fact intent upon the old feud, and if so can he be turned from that path. If either of those circumstances is not the case, then I am to acquire additional information in preparation for the next move."
His synopsis concluded, Jerod lets his spear roll to his left side so it can be cradled in a resting position, awaiting comments and questions that are sure to come.
Conner is quietly impressed at how much effort Jerod has put into feeling out the political landscape before venturing in. For once, Conner is happy to have another that wishes the post of diplomat. In a negotiation with Huon, red hair is a distinct disadvantage. Conner also notes the one glaring omission from Jerod's list of backers. It would seem that Jerod is truly Eric's son right down to not learning that trying to keep redheads out of things only draws them in deeper.
"To complete the current chart that His Grace has sketched out, I have spoken with Prince Bleys." Conner adds. "While he would personally like to see Huon of the Horn defeated in battle, he understands the desire to solve things without bloodshed. I have his permission to offer a nonaggression pact between Prince Bleys and Huon. If Huon abandons the feud, Prince Bleys will do likewise."
"That may serve as a useful inducement, should they become necessary." Jerod says. "I'll be sure to keep it in mind when I speak to him."
"Thank you, Cousins." She turns to her advisors. "You have heard the proposal, what do you think?"
A mage of indeterminate middle age speaks up. "There are risks. He might be misleading us and intend to provide intelligence to Huon."
Khela nods and looks at another man. "And the potential for damage?"
The man, whose voice gives away his origin in the Seaward Shells, taps the table. "Some. That you have the blade may make him turn course to attack us."
Khela nods again. "Yes, so we need to cut off the advantage of that. I would have you tell Huon that I have Cneve's blade and will use it or dispose of it as I please, and if he comes at me with his army, he will find himself defeated. Were a battle to go against me, I would personally give Cneve's sword to Bleys to keep it from Huon's hand.
"Just the possibility of that may give him pause, and while I am more likely to send the blade to Rebma for her defence, he doesn't need to know my actual arrangements. Still, a Prince of Amber is dangerous and unpredictable, even if an array of the same are aligned to our cause. We must use this opportunity to our best advantage.
"General Conner, what outcomes do you consider possible from Prince Jerod's meeting with his Uncle?"
"Well I think it unlikely that Huon would simply kill the messenger." Conner begins with a widening of his grin. "He seemed quite willing to speak with family when Celina and Merlin first encountered him and again below the waves. He made it clear to Celina that the only bargaining he would be willing to do would be for the sword of Cneve. This may have changed with the reality of his army's situation but I doubt it. It really come down to how much Huon is willing to believe Prince Jerod. Claims that the sword is not within Rebma could be discounted as a misdirection and then nothing would change. If Huon is convinced the sword lies within this army, then a frontal strike by his army while he and other special units search and target the battlefield for the sword would be my expectation. For all that Huon has treated his conquered people well, I fully expect that he would sacrifice his army to gain the sword and then escape with it to plan anew. However, it is possible the Huon may be made to see a lost cause when it is before him. I suspect he would try to bargain for a withdraw with his troops first followed by an offer for his troops to surrender while he escapes. He would never submit to capture willingly not after so recently being freed. Even then, I would expect him to make one last try for the sword by covert means since overt failed him." Conner shrugs his shoulders. "Honestly, I do not expect the first attempt at diplomacy to be very productive, but it is worth the effort to try."
She nods. "I count on you to prepare against and prevent his covert assault, General. I do not think Huon could command the Tritons if he were to win it, but it would not be good for them or for us."
Conner nods in response. He already has plans to institute some extra patrols and passwords around the camp. He would speak with Khela later about establishing a royal bodyguard.
"I agree that we must try. I would rather begin this new chapter of Rebman history with an effort to prevent war."
She turns to Jerod. "Cousin, do you have anything to add to Conner's analysis? Do his expectations match yours?
"Mostly, though the underlying motivation for Huon remains an assumption which I am not yet willing to accept without question." Jerod says. "I do not believe that Huon actually knows where the blade is. Otherwise, he would have made his assault already. As such, unless absolutely necessary, the knowledge that the blade has been located will not be revealed. An army without a target is much less dangerous as its tactics will not be as focussed.
"That Huon wants the blade for a reason goes without question, though the specific reason is as yet unknown. The feud with Bleys is the most likely but there may be others that we are unaware of and must take steps to identify. The most efficient way to neutralize the primary assumption is to deal with the underlying cause instead of the symptom. Since he will be meeting only with me, Huon will be operating from a position of personal security and will not feel threatened. My personal background does not carry any negative history that might otherwise interfere with discussions. And the message I bring will be sufficient to get him to consider it. Whether that moment carries forward, we will see."
Conner nods in agreement with that assessment.
"As for the risk, there's always risk where there's something of benefit to gain." and he looks around blandly at their surroundings, a reminder to them as much as anyone. If they're worried about a little risk, they're definitely on the wrong road to avoiding it.
"In truth, the only thing we risk by this gambit is you," Conner observes. "and that risk is minimal given the assumption of Huon as a reasonable family member. Have you an escape plan if he is not?"
"A couple." Jerod says. "And if those don't work, there's always avuncide as a last resort. I'd just have to figure out what to tell his Majesty. The 'fell-down-the-stairs' excuse has already been used and Random was kinda insistent I not act unpleasantly. Though, circumstances and all..."
Khela smiles, grimly. "Given that he marches on Rebma, I would not be displeased if he were killed in battle or if you killed him protecting yourself or the city, but his death-curse on either yourself or the city would best be avoided."
She pauses for a moment, then continues. "It is my hope that when things have concluded here, you will be welcome in Rebma and reconfirmed in your titles and holdings."
"No doubt his majesty might wonder as to that, give my oath to him after my father's death. I have noticed that he can be flexible however, when it suits the circumstances." Jerod replies blandly. "I have no doubt that the consolidation of situation after dealing with Huon, by whomever undertakes such action, would be better served by support from those who are actually part of Rebma and its community. As opposed to relying on hired help.
"Let us just say that I believe my welcome in Rebma might depend on the climate of Rebma and the actions of those who desire to determine her future. I have often noted that those who accept the curse of duty to their kingdom are more likely to been seen in a favorable light. Those who serve only for their own advancement or desires, usually at the expense of her people...are less illuminated.
"As with all things, motivations are the key for an individual but they are difficult to discern from a distance. It is necessary I find to garner a closer look at those who would act as a catalyst of destiny."
[Khela]
"It's my intent for the future of Rebma to be more open and less secretive.
My aunt your grandmother's court of intrigue and schemes was good for few
but those who schemed and intrigued. Every man and woman has their own
conscience to answer to and their own reasons for what they do.
"Let no one tell you she is totally selfless or even totally selfish; we are a mass of reasons for each act, all of which are true and false. The flagellant and the religious hermit believe they gather treasures in a life beyond. Are they different than the merchant, other than in what they hoard?"
She smiles. "So do not accuse me of selflessness, but instead think of me as a woman who could not take it any more, for whom the injustices and tyrannies of Moire overcame my reluctance to challenge them.
"There were personal reasons, but I see what I am doing as benefiting all of Rebma. I'm doing what I think is right. It may take some time to tell if I was right or wrong. And that's assuming that I win."
She gestures at the table. "Would you care for a drink?
Jerod's expression remains neutral throughout her speech, digesting the words, tone and timing. There is just enough spoken to garner an interest, treading a middle path carefully between the options that Jerod has laid out. That she avoided the trap he laid is not surprising. Had she fallen into it so easily, he would have been disappointed.
At her invitation, he makes note of the refreshments that exist, and has a sudden intense desire for something lighter than the traditional heavy drinks that one finds below the waves. A decent scotch would certainly be nice, but unless there's a stroke of luck here, it's doubtful such a drink, lacking the hardiness to survive underwater, would be found here.
(if I'm mistaken, then we can correct this).
[It's not, but a sorcerer could provide it.]
"Thank you, though I regret I must decline for the moment. Perhaps another time." he says, his expression indicating there is little to attract his attention on the table.
Khela does not force the issue.
"You mentioned wanting my support for your diplomatic mission. What can we provide for you?"
"I need to know the disposition of his forces and their current location." Jerod replies. "I also need to know approximately your forces and how quickly a confrontation can be imposed on him should he be reluctant to consider alternatives besides the sword. Finally, I need to know any recent actions that have been undertaken between your two sides and the impact of those actions.
"Once I have an understanding of the chess board, then I will be able to determine the best means to reach him, to begin the final play."
Khela nods to one of the men, dressed like a magician. He unrolls a large hide and begins casting some spell. A map appears on the hide and Jerod quickly recognizes the environs of Rebma. Ostia to the seaward and the Faella-Bionin and the Faellen Gate to the shoreward. The mountain that provided access to Paris is there, as well.
The triton speaks, disconcertingly. "The enemy is here," he says, "leading forces of his have reached Ostia and have likely began to entrench, if they haven't taken that stronghold. Once he has Ostia, there's nothing between him and Rebma, but a half-day's march over easy terrain. Ostia is not defensible for either him or us, so it's mostly a landmark.
"He has scouts out to either side. He's expecting us and worried about a magnified version of your forces, Prince Jerod. He's still bad at underwater combat, because he does little to protect his shallows; like a bottom-feeder all he sees is the bottom."
"Perhaps, " interjects Khela, "or he may attempt to misdirect us thusly."
The Triton bows. "Yes, Highness, we must keep that in mind. He is more than capable of learning. Our forces are arrayed according to General Connor's order of battle. The basic plan is to flank them while there are within spear range of Rebma's walls and push through them with Tritons.
"Based on what we saw at Phillipae, he has us out maged, but we have him outarmed by a great factor."
The triton and the mage go on to show Jerod the details of the battle-plan and answer his questions. It seems reasonable, if a bit showy.
"We will be close enough to Rebma that he cannot use his talents against us," adds Khela.
Jerod listens dispassionately to the information provided, with any questions during the conversation directed to the Triton who is speaking, and those questions being related to relative levels of troops, their movement capability, the placement of Rebma and Triton forces and the level of mix involved within the various units, plus an evaluation of the unit dispositions that they have faced from Huon's forces to date.
Beyond that, he is silent as he examines the map and ponders. When he begins to speak, he does so absently, sifting information and trying to fill in the holes that exist in their knowledge, and the holes are large.
"Ostia as a landmark, though more of a warning point." he says, "Holding it signals a declaration of force and intention. He will not attempt to defend it.
"The half days' ground gives time to complete his formation marshalling and prepare to attack Rebma, but it is also easy ground for a counter-offensive, for the side that is ready to exploit it. Huon will know this so I wonder why he might choose to do so with inexperienced troops.
"Since he has been engaged at least once, I will presume you won an easy victory over him. Do not assume the same will occur again. He will adapt. He may have deliberately allowed his forces to take a hit, to give them the necessary tension that troops need to build cohesion and teach them to focus. Your commanders must be vigilant against feelings of an easy victory to come. A sudden sharp shock will melt that feeling and give an advantage to the enemy."
"You presume incorrectly." Conner informs Jerod. "Our first encounter inflicted heavy casualties on Huon's forces initially, mainly due to surprise and their unfamiliarity with underwater fighting. Given time to rally and regroup the battle became a stalemate and I ordered the Tritons to withdraw. We have no illusions of easy victory against Huon." Conner concludes.
Jerod frowns, definitely not liking the holes, and begins moving around the table, viewing it as he talks. "Huon has adapted throughout his journey to this place. He brought guns and artillery on the first stage, stopping in Meg's home city where he made a collection, of what is uncertain. Then there was Gateway, where he bartered for mages. He would know that the guns would be useless here in their normal form, and that close to Rebma his mages would have a similar value. Everything says that he is weak and vulnerable, easy to exploit. I do not believe it. If he were so stupid, he would have been dead long ago." he says, then directs his comments more to the group instead of the air.
"Have you considered the possibility that this force is a decoy? That the number of mages present is not intended to force battle on a city but instead to sorcerously search for Cneve's blade? If Rebma were attacked by a powerful force, it would be logical that the champion of the kingdom come forth and that the blade be deployed in its defense. Once the target was located, a concerted attack could be mounted to obtain it." and Jerod stops, turning to the Triton.
"Have your troops been able to capture any enemy patrols for interrogation? If so, what orders did they have and what were they to look for and report on? I also wish to know if there is anything strange about the last battle that was fought. Anything at all, no matter how small or unusual."
"Answering the second question first," Conner began, "Huon's forces were able to summon giant sharks to fight the Tritons. They were powerful beasts capable of matching a Triton's strength. However, I detected no use of magic on the battlefield at the time and according to the Triton's that fought them, they did not move or behave as they would expect. They ignored blood trails for example. So these battle plans contain contingencies for the sudden appearance of allies. This close to the Pattern of Rebma, it more unlikely that Huon could replicate this call for aid, but it is best to be cautious." Conner nodded. "On the topic of enemy patrols, we have been unable to capture any unless there has been recent news?" Conner looks to the Triton for confirmation.
"So he should be even more weak since he is too close to Rebma to summon more allies." Jerod mutters, awaiting the Triton's reply. "Not right. Something's not right."
Khela clears her throat. "Patrols are something of a magician's duel here, Jerod. We block them from directly observing us and they do the same and we all watch the intervening ground with spells and neither side has risked patrols too close to the other side. We keep them honest, they keep us honest, but too much force in between us would result in an unplanned battle on disadvantageous terrain.
"I hope to take advantage of your offer to spring or detect his surprises earlier than he desires."
"With luck, none of that will become necessary." Jerod says. His tone currently does not indicate whether he is hopeful of that.
A man and a Triton approach the table. Between them walks Loreena. She looks at Jerod, a puzzled expression on her face. Were they alone, she might wonder aloud if Jerod was in over his head. Here, she keeps silent.
When is Jerod not in over his head? Such is the nature of life he realized long ago. And since he has not yet drowned, Jerod figures he's doing okay. Lamell once told him - you sink, you swim, or you learn to breathe underwater.
"Ah, good." Jerod says, pleased to note that his sister appears unharmed, though he is certain that she is unlikely to be pleased with her predicament. He speaks to Khela next. "I would like a moment alone with my sister, if that can be arranged. This will not take long."
Jerod does not bother to offer his word that he would not try to aid in any kind of escape attempt. As the guest, he would not be inclined to offer such an insult, barring a hostile change in circumstances. He waits to see if any of Khela's troops decide to speak up on this matter.
Khela nods. "Certainly, my Lord Jerod. You may walk within the camp for a bit as it suits you."
Jerod nods a bow to Khela in thanks. There is no loss of status in doing so, given that the reality is that Khela is in command here and it does no harm to show respect in such circumstances.
Loreena's lips purse and she offers her arm to Jerod, turning her back on Khela, which slight the claimant to the sapphire throne ignores.
As they step away Loreena leans in to Jerod.
"I was taken prisoner by Khela and gave my parole to our cousin Celina. Either you are here to negotiate for my release, you have also been taken prisoner, or you are negotiating with the traitors. I hope for the former but suspect the latter. Which is it, my brother?"
"None of them sister." Jerod says. "I am here under the aegis of Random and Corwin to deal with Prince Huon, who currently threatens the city in his pursuit of Cneve's blade. My position as commander of the Guard has made it feasible to approach Khela for additional support to that end. If Huon cannot be dissuaded from his course, then I intend to prod Khela and her army to aid in dealing with him, which she will do for her own benefit.
"I do not have much time so listen carefully. The Queen has already fled the city and Llewella commands the forces there currently in defense against Huon. Khela's return is likely inevitable unless grandmother has something in store and I have no time to devote to speculations. Mother is also missing. I have Lamell looking for her in case she left a message as to her whereabouts. He knows how to get ahold of me if he finds something.
"When you disappeared you were looking for the Eye. What have you learned of it?"
Loreena frowns. "I'd hope the most important thing to be concerned about is your dear sister, captive to traitors. Your airbreathing concerns mean little here, and I hope you're sensible enough to see that.
"Captain Atonides is condemned to death on the word of a Triton, for ordering Tritons to fight for Rebma. Don't expect her to treat you well, just because you've done nothing wrong. Just because it would be fair, doesn't mean she'll do it."
She seems quite agitated.
Given that the best way to deal with agitated individuals is to remain calm, Jerod does precisely that. He knows of the good Captain but cares little for his fate. If Atonides is like any of the average primping and ambitious officer types he has seen, Atonides would have treated the Tritons like the slaves most consider them to be. In that case, Jerod would not be surprised to find the Tritons were correct in their charge. He would not necessarily support a charge of death based on one person's word, but he also has no interest in investigating it. He will let it be a test case for Khela's justice, and whether she treats all citizens as equal or simply swaps Rebmans for Tritons.
"While I am sure you believe that to be important, I would look for more information than what little you have offered." Jerod says. "Atonides may be guilty and I have no time to get side-tracked. Given that Tritons are considered no better than slaves, I suspect one of them condemning a Rebman wouldn't go over well."
"I am not here to deal with the power transfer that is shaping up. I'm trying to see if something is happening that affects all the realms, and Huon may be connected to forces that could make this little throne switch insignificant by comparison. I have verified that you are okay and that is satisfactory for the moment. Since you are unwilling to discuss the Eye, we are now done. I do not recommend you speak to Conner concerning the Eye."
With that, Jerod unlinks his arm from his sister and begins to head back to where Khela and her advisors are located.
Loreena looks at his retreating form, wondering why it had to be her brother who came here, and not someone sensible.
Last modified: 1 July 2008