Atdtda29: Overview, 806-836 #3

[Paul Nightingale]

If we divide Atdtda29 into separate phases ...

Phase 1: Cyprian and Yashmeen, 'guided'/manipulated by Theign (806-815).

With Cyprian and Yashmeen often apart, the narrative cuts back and forth,
with Theign making sudden interventions. A range of locations are indicated,
but geographical space--ie the time needed to get from A to B--is treated
dismissively.

Phase 2: Yashmeen and Vlado (815-820).

In the first instance, Cyprian is 'replaced' by--even transformed into--a
female cat, Cyprienne; subsequently, Yashmeen denies that Vlado is "a
substitute for Cyprian" (817). However, recalling Cyprian, Vlado is
"unpredictably in and out of town".

Phase 3: Cyprian and Bevis at sea (821-826).

A transitional phase, in which Cyprian is largely a passive observer,
suspicious of his fellow passengers. As this phase ends, Cyprian and Bevis
briefly postpone their landing. Evidently Bevis takes the initiative here,
perhaps confirming Cyprian's passive role.

Phase 4: Cyprian and Bevis in Sarajevo, meeting Danilo (826-832).

Here, an alternative history is juxtaposed to Cyprian's regression to a time
pre-Theign, the reintroduction of Misha and Grisha followed by the
reappearance of the Colonel. For the first time Max Khautsch is identified
explicitly as Cyprian's Colonel in Vienna: "... I am succumbing to
nostalgia" (831).

Phase 5: Cyprian and Danilo at large. Bevis disappears in transit (833-836).

Departure from Sarajevo takes an unexpected turn, as Cyprian and Danilo have
to improvise. Cyprian is given another map he cannot use.