We were all told horror stories when we were children. Some of them about monsters that patrol the darkness. Others about hapless men or creatures whose carelessness led to some terrible fate. What these stories have in common is that they are understood but not taken literally or too seriously. When we first arrived in Amber we were told the same sort of stories about Trump contacts and how dangerous they are. It wasn't until I activated my Trump of Castle Amber and stepped through, not to Amber, but to somewhere else altogether that I realized what they were talking about.

I let out a scream as I was redirected, not as much out of fear as to warn Fiona that something had gone horribly wrong.

As it turned out things were not so bad. The redirection had been at the hands of Cassandra. She brought me to her shadow to avoid suspicion. There had to be a better way, but what's done is done.

After some opening pleasantries Sand explained that the images I had seen had not been the effect of Dreamline. I suggested Bleys' theory that they might have been caused by contact with the Jewel. I offered to let Sand examine my memories of the battle if it would help verify this. She agreed. I felt this would be beneficial in two other respects. It would put Sand in better touch with our recent exploits, and it would show her that I have no hidden agenda in opening communication with her. She agreed, with a tiny hint of envy, that I have some small attunement to the Jewel and that it was likely causing the visions - a side effect. This meant that the others are probably experiencing these visions too. I'd have to check that out. Sand also mentioned she felt a good portion of Julia Barnes' mental signature in my mind. At first I was alarmed. Would that effect my actions? Sand didn't seem to think it would, but I will examine my actions closely the next few day to make sure they are my own. If I see any indication the Julia's mind has any sway in my own I'll simply have to walk the pattern.

I thanked Sand for the information and returned to Castle Amber.