Benedict's even-toned voice filled the library; some of the people there were listening, some were not. I had the advance information of Random's death, and so my mind could not help but to keep wandering back to Ivory, to the charred horror there. Bishop was a friend -- not one I had much contact with, especially when he stayed in Ivory, but a friend nonetheless, and he was one of the few people to show Bailey any sort of kindness when she first arrived. Goodbye cousin; you deserved better.
What can be done now? Luke and Gerard missing, but close; Chris smelled trap and I was inclined to believe. I owe Luke for finding Bailes, and also, he was being held by Ciro, most likely, and I know what that is like. I may have to find him on my own.
The coming darkness... war, Amber's hopes few... I need to make preparations for Sarah. I would like to do the same for Bailey, but I know she won't go for that. Looking over at her, I smile, the mother of my child. How can I trust in something that might end this world I have formed for myself?
*****
I literally could not believe my ears. My cousin Gwyn, High Priestess of the Unicorn, was advocating returning the eye of the Serpent, citing remarks made by Dworkin as proof, backed by "visions" that Gen was having. Had they not talked with Random, or Corwin, or Bleys? Any of those who remembered Brand's actions at Patternfall? It is an artifact with the power to make or destroy this universe; multiply that by four, and return that power to our nemesis.
I am not so close-minded on this issue as this might suggest, as I have the well-being of Sarah, as well as mine and Bailey's child, to consider. There is nothing I would want more than to avert the war that looms, for their sake. I did not jump into the Abyss to save Bailey, only to lose her again so quickly... But, I don't think I can put enough trust in something that is purported to be the end of all things in the hopes that it fixes the current problems here. There is one thing that can go right with this plan -- but so, so many that could go wrong.
There is also the issue of Ciro's involvement. I have sworn vengeance on him -- and I will have it -- but again, I have to consider the state of the world I am leaving for myself, my love, and my children. To stop him from pulling off his plan comes before my vengeance.
Bailey is considering the arguments much more critically then I am, and it may come to pass that she accepts it, which may affect how I see it as well. I think she does understand the problems inherent in it, of course. But as for right now... I can only hold her in my arms, or pass my hand on her stomach, or tease Sarah about the names of her kittens, and know that I can't support Gwyn's plan as it currently stands.
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