Her arms quivered as the dirt was lifted yet another time. Exhaustion threatened to overwhelm her, but she kept at it, determined. The shovel lifted up and over the rim of the hole, just above eye-level now, and tossed its contents up against the side of the towering hill of dirt.
Fiallain groaned as she stole a quick glance about to ensure she wasn't watched. Every inch of her felt on fire. Her sweat ran in salty streams, running over where blade and spear point had grazed and cut her. This is what you bloody get for channeling, fool woman. Glancing around guiltily once more, she tossed the shovel up out of the chasm and slowly pulled herself out. Digging yourself endless holes until you drop.
What has happened to the others? she wondered, not for the first time. Alathea, is she well? I must know! What of Jasmine and Jed, and Litheene? Jasper? She shivered despite her exertions, remembering the horror that the men in the black cloaks had unleashed... Why won't those blasted women tell me anything? Blinking at her own temerity, Fia glanced worriedly about for Inoreal, as if the Wise One could hear her thoughts. She certainly seemed to!
*crunch* The shovel dug once more deeply into the ground as she began the next hole, venting her frustration. She stole another weary, yet defiant gaze, looking for one of her sisters... well, one of those who had been sisters. Perhaps they could tell her. ...and what has happened to Ryland? Those eyes, am I going mad? Yes, that must be it. The battle and everything, I was seeing things. She gives a shake of her head as if to shrug off the memory. *crunch* The shovel bit in again and again. But she cannot shrug the unease off as easily, for deep down she knows better, those golden orbs seemed to sink deep into her soul. Of all the companions, the taciturn woodsman was likely the one she felt most at ease with. The skills he had developed were most like her own, and he was certainly the only one that might be able to actually sneak up on her. Despite her constant teasing, she had come to respect the man, even if he did refuse to climb off that great beast of his and walk as a man ought! Also, in perhaps a strange way given her own abilities, his reluctance to have anything to do with the Power was also... refreshing - and in some ways mirrored her own journey of keeping it hidden away, kept at arms distance despite its sweet call. What is happening to him? Light, to all of us?
I don't know what is going on, but someone has the answers. The Car'a'carn's friend would know. *crunch crunch* He has the same.. nngh... eyes. Perhaps whatever changed in Ryland also changed in him. They have the same look. She growled to herself. My friends may need help, and I'm stuck here digging flaming holes in the ground! Well... maybe if I finish this task I can finally ask...
The shovel dug in again with renewed, purposeful vigor.
Ryland places the final stone on the small burial mound and pats the rock gently. He stands slowly, his tired back muscles creaking, and looks over his work. Nine similar mounds follow the edge of a small grove of trees, a foot apart. I think they would like to be together here. Thank you my friends.
The woodsman had only found the bodies of 10 of the wolves that fought with him against the Aeil, but the field was littered with the bodies of other wolves. More than 100 wolves must have died during the battle. Still the Boarderlander could not figure out what brought him and the wolves here to this place at this time. I bet The Dragon’s friend knows. His eyes are cursed also.”
Ryland’s eyes had changed to a bright gold during the carnage. Others had noticed also, raised eyebrows and whispers followed him where ever he went. The worse was the look Fia had given him. His friend had seemed horrified by his eyes when he saw her last. It had been too much for the woodsman, so he had stayed away from his other friends since the end of the battle. That and the stench of the killing ground was overwhelming. Light how can they stand it there! You would think this was my first battle!
He had been in battle before but not one such as this. The woodsman had lost himself during the carnage somehow he had given into something with the wolves but he did not know what, and it had changed him. Not just his eyes, but other things, strange things. How did that wolf speak to me? And how do I know they are out there? Am I touched by the Darkone? No. Duskwalker did not seem evil. The others were not either. They looked out for me, like friends, or family. Maybe I am just going crazy. Ryland laughs, but no humor is evident in its sound. Maybe Jasper and I can go to a city as gleemen where he can juggle balls of fire while I sit on a street corner and talk to puppies.
The woodsman shakes his head and sits down on the ground, looking back towards the camps. Sooner or later we will have to face all of this. We have all changed after this. Maybe too much to continue on together. We will see.
Alathea sits on the flat rock, her eyes open but unfocused. Her thoughts are gloomy, and her face reflects them. What am I to do? I have dedicated my life to the Tower, and now I am no longer wanted. I am unworthy to return to the Tower because I have traveled with these rebels, and I am unfit to join these rebels because I have expressed my loyalty to the Tower. She shakes her head. What is an Accepted who is shunned by all who would teach her? Where do I belong now?
But her own problems are not the worst of what troubles her. The memories of the recent battle circle in her mind: the endless ranks of Aiel, the spears flashing towards her, and the destruction wrought by the madmen. Even the memories make her shudder, but all of them pale before the aftermath. She has seen him, the Dragon Reborn, with her own eyes, and she can believe all of the terrible rumors that she's heard about him. And she had sworn herself to him, sworn with the Aes Sedai. A line has been crossed, yes? By swearing to him, he no longer dances on the strings of the Tower, assuming he ever did. Now it is the Tower that will dance on his strings. She cannot imagine a more terrifying thought than that.
Sighing, Alateha pushes herself off of the rock and to her feet. It does me no good to brood over these same things over and over. Perhaps I need to speak to someone. As she is wondering where she might find Fiallain, she notices Jasper walking in her direction. Turning to meet him, she smiles in greeting. "What brings you here, Jasper? I had thought that you would be busy with your responsibilities, yes?"
Jasper simply shrugs, slinging the waterskin over his shoulder Perks of rank.
Looking Alathea up and down with a measuring look, Jasper's face looks sad. Walking up to her, he puts a hand on her shoulder, squeezing it in a comforting manner.You look like you could use a friend to talk to. Laughing suddenly, he bursts out HA, both the Light and the Dark One knows i could use a friend to talk to, after everything that has happened.
She looks beaten, as if something has happened that goes beyond what the battle has caused. Hmmm...could it be related to what I saw when she first approaced the prisoners?
Holding out his arm, Jasper asks Let's take a walk. We can talk about whatever you wish.
Alathea smiles wanly and falls into step beside Jasper. For a quarter mile or more, she remains silent, content just to walk. She doesn't care about a destination, but she unconsciously steers away from anywhere she knows the Aes Sedai to be.
Finally, she breaks the silence. "Look at all of this, Jasper. Who would have thought that something like this could happen? In the Tower, I learned about ancient wars, but even the worst of the histories didn't make the destruction seem this...complete. What's happened here must be new, yes?" She steals a glance at Jasper to see what his expression might reveal, then looks back to where she's walking. "Come. With a battle like this, there are bound to be many who are injured. Let us see if we can help. I'm sure that the Aes Sedai will not begrudge my assistance."
Pausing briefly to consider Alathea's question, Jasper just shrugs, and walks again.battles have been happening for millenia. I am sure this is what it may have looked like when the Trollocs invaded and the Dreadlords wielded the power as a weapon.
Only to fall again from memory. Perhaps this is what needed to happen to remind everyone about the cost of war, especially when we fight amongst ourselves. A battle like this shouldve happened against the Dark One, not amongst ourselves.
Patting Alathea's hand with his, Jasper turns slightly and stares at a fellow Asha'man. Seeing the look on the mans face, one filled with loathing and hate, Jaspers face turns cold. I have her, brother. Go help guard the prisoners since you have nothing better to do.
Smiling down at Alathea, Jasper listens to her talk about helping the injured. Perhaps it would be for the best. Soldiers talk, and it should be put out that the Asha'man help those in need
With that, Jasper turns and guides Alathea towards a couple of Aes Sedai charged with healing those who are injured.
Litheene sits about quietly, noticing neither the Aes Sedai that scout around, duckling after the dragon, nor the Ashaman, eying them suspiciously, and marching around the camp. I've sworn to him. This is the second time, is it not? The Amyrlin was the first. Is it the power of ta'veren?
Two soldiers pass by, carrying a carcass, burned with the power so the form can barely be recognized as a human anymore. The image breaks Litheene's line of though, sending her back to her deeper sulking.
She barely stopped herself from destroying the angreal on the morning, the only thing to prevent her from doing so, is her duty to bring it back to Maelin.
Jasmine speaks, and Litheene turns to her, her eyes not really seeing. He is the dragon. Thou it is not for Aes Sedai to make such an oath, we are eventually sworn to fight the shadow. You are right, we should seek to make the most help out of it.
And how are you gonna do that? A voice hisses inside her, and she is once again aware that she hasn't channeled since the fight. She braced herself to open to Saidar a few times, she knew she could have it, but the horror of the battle, the horror of what she, not the Ashaman, has done, haunted her away from the source each time. Am I an animal? I run away from Seanchan, but did anything change?
Litheene raises up, coming closer to Jasmine, so that none can see her pass a wrap of cloth, with two objects objects packed inside. Could you please keep an eye on those for a while? She whispers wearily, I ... I shouldn't be taking care of these right now. If that's of it takes to keep Maelin's requests safe from my instability she adds to herself.
I'll go and try to find out a little more about the wolf head lord, the one we were looking for before the battle. His banner was among the forces that arrived. At least there I could put my knowledge to good, non destructive, use
Alathea stares flatly at the madman as Jasper dismisses him. That one fears me. At least somebody thinks that I am worthy of notice. But she dismisses the thought as unworthy. The Aes Sedai will change their minds eventually, yes? It is always said that the Tower is never done with a woman who has come to it. They are not done with me, are they?
Alathea shakes her head as Jasper guides her towards the Aes Sedai. "They do not need my help. I can do more good by helping those yet to be tended." Walking over to woman clutching at a wound in her side, she gently pulls her arms away to inspect the wound and grimaces at the angry infection. With soothing assurances, she wraps the gash in threads of Spirit, Water, and Air, and watches with satisfaction as the wound knits itself together and the angry redness fades from her flesh.
Before moving on to another casualty, Alathea pauses. "Tell me, Jasper. If one of your kind leaves your...Black Tower, what becomes of him?"
Jasper chuckles at the question. Leave? Why would anyone want to leave? We all volunteered to join. Volunteered to learn. Even knowing the potential for madness, and eventual death, we all volunteered. No Asha'man has ever wanted to leave. Pausing, he stares at the woman as the healing is completed. Hmm...interesting.
Shaking his head, he continues I am sure, given enough time, and if we survive The Last Battle, that boys may want to leave. But I doubt that'll happen in my lifetime.
Alathea looks at Jasper for a moment before speaking. I don't think he's telling the truth, or maybe he doesn't know the truth. There are always people who start things without knowing what they're getting into. I would think that this would be especially so with those madmen.
When she speaks, Alathea's tone is less cautious. "You spoke of needing to speak yourself. You have listened to me, it is time I listen to you. What troubles you, Jasper?"
Jasper looks at Alathea, and then suddenly through her, as if not seeing her. A look comes over his face, one showing fear, then anger, then self control. A snarl curls his lips, as if fighting against some unseen foe.
What troubles me? he asks in a disjointed voice.
I cannot sleep. My dreams are filled with men and women and animals dying. Dreams of me smashing in faces, my horse crushing those underfoot, me channeling and destroying the enemy in a horrific fashion. I can not relax, or calm down. I am constantly on edge now, expecting a sword or arrow to come out of nowhere. Sometimes I snap at the slightest sound, or the minute movement, and am worried that I will channel in defense and harm the wrong person. As he talks, Jaspers entire body begins to quiver, his hands clench rapidly, his arms pressing against his side, as if to hold himself together.
I cannot find joy anymore. nor happiness. I wish i could say that i could feel fear, anger, hurt, annoyance, anything, but i do not. I feel detached. As if I am looking through another persons eyes and am going through the motions. I look at you, and before, i thought you were pretty, and if things were different, id've courted you, but now, nothing. You still look the same, but whatever internal ideas i had are now gone. Tears begin to stream down Jaspers face from his eyes, frustration apparent on his features.
Something has changed within me. I am not sure if it is for good or for bad. But i have changed.
Alathea pauses and turns her full attention to Jasper. "I feel your pain, Jasper. I understand...I have the same dreams, and sometimes I'm sure that the battle still rages around me, even though I know it's over. But I did little in the battle; from what I have heard, you must have done things that would horrify anybody. I imagine it must be worse for you than it is for me."
Alathea reaches out tentatively to take Jasper's hand. "You say you cannot feel, but look at yourself. You are crying; surely that means something? I would be far more concerned if you were not, yes?" She takes a deep breath and shakes her head. "You may tell me whatever you feel about this. I do not know if I can help, but it must be better than keeping your thoughts inside, yes? And if I cannot help, perhaps things will get better with time."
Jasper nods, grasping Alathea's hand in a almost bone crushing grip. His trembling seems to slow as he fully registers the touch of her hand in his.
perhaps all is not lost, if i can still get frustrated and whine like a muley woman he says in a snide tone directed towards himself.
Taking a deep breath, and looking skyward to calm down, Jasper looks back at Alathea, looking at her in the eye. A smile cracks his stern face. Thank you Alathea. I know now that you are a friend of mine, as i am towards you. I do apologize for all the grief i have given you from Tanchico til now.
Still holding her hand, he says I owe everyone an apology for the way i had been acting, and now, i think, is the best time to do it. Will you help me, for support?
Alathea attempts to put on a stern expression, but a hint of a smile peeks through. "The way you have acted is past, and I am sure that I have treated you poorly from time to time as well. We have been through too much together to let past slights come between us. I will do what I can to help you, and I am sure you will do the same for me, yes?"
time to time? Jasper asks in the same stern manner, only to finally bust out laughing. Oh Bloody creator, we are too funny. Yes, Alathea, I will help you in anyway you need Jasper finishes, giving her hand a squeeze.
Looking around, Jasper attempts to find his fellow companions throughout the encampment. Easily he spots Litheene, Jasmine and Jed standing next to a wagon.
well, i see jed, jasmine, and Litheene, and the last i saw of Fia she was being dragged by her hair by a wise one while some of her maiden friends were tearing off her clothes. I am sure she is with her own people, doing whatever, but i think we can get her to come join us. But i havent seen Ryland since the battle. Perhaps we best get ourselves together before looking for Ryland.
Alathea nods. "You are right. I haven't seen Ryland since the battle: I have heard that he is well, but nothing more than that. Perhaps we should see him for ourselves, yes? And if we cannot find him, perhaps Fiallain would appreciate a friendly face or two, especially if she was truly as unwilling to go with her Wise Ones as you say."
Jasper stares out into the mass graveyard, crows pecking at the dead bodies in the hundreds. Staring at crows that stare back at him with awareness. Shrugging his shoulders, he turns his awareness back to Alathea.
I think we should seek out Fia first. As you said, i am sure she would welcome a friendly face. Besides, i think she would prove to be helpful in finding Ryland.
Pausing a moment, Jasper nods to himself. Let's swing by the others on our way to Fia. By having me with the group, it'll make things easier for them to move about, should they wish it.
Turning, Jasper leads Alathea towards the Aes Sedai that have sworn to the Dragon, which is where Jasmine, Jed, and Litheene are. As he walks, Jasper squeezes her hand in a comforting manner. Wouldn't worry about the old hags. They will be spending too much time staring at me than at you he finishes with a chuckle.
The rest of the day and that evening are a series of moments too strange to comprehend.
Jasmine, Alathea and Litheene quickly discover that they are now to be apprentices to the Wise Ones along with the rest of the Aes Sedai who swore fealty to Rand al'Thor! So far this hasn't truly impacted any of you but if the Tower politics weren't bad enough...
At some point in the evening you all gather together around a meager campfire and try to make sense of the last 24 hours. Ryland is still disturbingly absent and so is Fiallain, although you could swear you saw her run by, naked of all things!, sometime in the night. At a certain point Ryland does return, silent and stoic. All attempts at questions are answered with grunts and shrugs, his golden eyes gleaming wickedly in the firelight. Between your shared strange dream and the Lord Dragon's companion you saw, you know something has changed in your companion even if you're not sure of what.
The following day, the large camp is abuzz like a recently kicked hornet's nest. People move about with a purpose and you learn that the Dragon Reborn means to return to Cairhein. Men in black coats begin vanishing through Gateways around the hill while the rest of the Dragon's forces begin forming up. Soon a large Gateway opens and Aiel begin to rush through, veils drawn as if looking for a fight. Beyond them you can see the topless towers of Cairhein not more than half a mile distant.
This belonged to one who fell against the Aiel. He looks to the prisoner Aes Sedai before turning back to you. With the split, there are no new cloaks being made for us and I won't allow even this small advantage to stay in Elaida's hands. May it serve you better than it did its previous owner. With that he hands you the cloak and moves back to his Aes Sedai's side.
As the group of you wait for your turn through the Gateway, two Aiel women approach. With a start you realize that one of them is Fiallain, although it was hard to tell at first now that she was wearing the bulky brown skirt and white blouse of a Wise One! The look on her face was anything but wise, a mix of frustration, anger and nervousness. The woman with her, much older and firm in bearing, stopped before you all and planted her fists on her hips.
This one was only too quick to inform me that she had committed to serving young Egwene in a task in the city with the rest of you. While she has much training still ahead of her, her foolish maiden's honor will not let her forget this it seems. The woman then smiles briefly at Fiallain. She does seem to possess some small amount of talent in the Dream so there will be ways to continue her training despite her absence. Fiallain's face paled a little at that.
Turning to look at the rest of you she nods curtly at the 3 Aes Sedai. Seeing as the Car'a'carn has placed you under our care, Fiallain will be able to convey her trainings and tasks to you accordingly. While an apprentice herself, if she carries the word of a Wise One, you three had better jump or you'll wish you had! Without a moment to interject, the woman spins away and heads back towards the Wise One's going through the Gateway.
As you finally get your turn to move through the Gateway, you pass through it and find yourselves on the outskirts of Cairhein. The bulk of the army was already dispersing towards the city, many of the Aiel heading to the east towards the array of tents outside the city's walls. The Dragon Reborn was already lost to sight towards the city entrance.
As the Gateway closes, an Asha'man approaches Jasper. You and your companions will report yourselves to the Sun Throne and the Lord Dragon in 3 days time. Without waiting for a response, the man opens a Gaetway and steps through, his destination somewhere outside of Caemlyn it appeared.
Suddenly you are all alone, the insanity of the last few days still ringing in your heads. The splendor of Cairhein lies before you.
Jasmine looks over at Jed as he pulls up beside her on his big broad chested warhorse, looking every inch the Warder he is. Jasmine smiles a bit from the back of her tall white mare and leans over to jokingly punch him in the arm, saying Don't get any ideas about using that cloak for mischief, my good sir. Smiling she looks at her other companions. Though still in a bit of shock as to the turn of events, she cannot help but feel free after the days under the Wise Ones care to be allowed to pursue their tasks for the Amyrlin in the city unsupervised. With a rueful shake of her head, Jasmine thinks How did we go from Aes Sedai to swearing fealty to a man, let alone the Dragon Reborn, to Wise One apprentices within a week? Truly the pattern is swirling us into its grip without a care for what we want.
Returning her attention to her companions she says Well? Shall we see about getting ourselves some accommodations in order to begin the search for the missing Aes Sedai? I for one wish to sleep in an actual bed as I feel I have taken on the permanent shape of a saddle these last few months.
Ryland stands apart from the group, shifting his weight from foot to foot as he holds a saddle by its horn over his left shoulder. His trusted war horse Drake had died during the battle of Dumai's Wells. Many things had changed during the battle, for Ryland and all of the friends.
His eyes flash gold as they dart from companion to companion. His lips curling into a silent snarl as the Asha'man turns and leaves after giving the group their orders.
The woodsman eyes linger on Fiallain before he turns and walks away, heading towards Cairhein.
Hold up a second, Ryland. Before we go charging into Cairhein, there is something I need to say to everyone.
Looking at Alathea for a moment, Jasper turns to the group as they look at him.
For the past couple days, I have been trying to get you all together to say something that is long overdue. Yet Aes Sedai and wise one's business' always got in the way. Well since we are free from the distractions pausing as he sees the masses of soldiers and Aiel around the group, Jasper smirks Well, free as can be expected. Here is what i have to say.
Taking a deep breath, Jasper's face grows somber and serious I am sorry for the way I have acted these past few months. Especially in Tanchico. It only took a battle of this magnitute to get me to realize that you are all friends of mine, and have been looking out for me, as I have been looking out for all of you. I realize this now, and so I wanted to say that I am truly sorry.
Fiallain stood there, holding Ryland's gaze with her own. At last she smiled faintly, wanting to speak, to say something, anything, but the words caught - the moment of contact all too brief before the woodsman turned and walked towards the sprawling city of the oathbreakers. Fia frowned at his back and crossed her arms as she watched him. He looks at me like a wounded cat! Lessened somewhat, but it's almost the same look he gave me at the battle when I saw his eyes.. She gave a start. It's like... like how I felt when he found out I could channel. She sighed heavily and bunched up her skirts in her fists to make it easier to walk, meaning to catch up with him.
Her focus switches however, as Jasper gathers them. I will speak with Ryland later..and Alathea as well", she tells herself as she listens intently to what Jasper says. When he finishes she gives him a nod followed by a smile. "The others must speak for themselves, but there is nothing between you and I for which to offer apologies, Jasper. I am glad though that you have realized all this. The world already has enough trouble in it without creating our own. We must keep our spears sharp and pointed at the enemy, not at those beside us."
Jasmine smiles at Jasper and says warmly The past is the past. We have enough to worry about in the present for two lifetimes. What matters most is what we do now and how we learn from that which we have experienced. You are proof of the benefits of that sort of thinking. I am honored to call you friend and your apology is accepted and any issues that may have existed are as dust upon the wind between us.
Jed grins broadly at Jasmines chiding. Too late, Jasmine. I already have a few ideas. Jed had been planning to sneak up on Jasmine that very night. Somehow, he has a feeling she already knows this.
As Jasper makes his apology, Jed does not say a word. Instead, he steps forward and clasps arms with him. This simply act is more than enough to show Jasper that there is no problem between them. He then walks back to his horse, stopping to give Ryland a reassuring pat on the shoulder, having noticed his brooding as of late (and the change in his eyes). Quietly, for Ryland's ears only, Jed says, "If you wish to talk, I will be willing to lend an ear."
"I think our first order of business should be to secure lodging for the next three days. I would like to then see what rumors have sprung up, about this battle. And of course, we have some business in Caemlyn of our own before we must meet at the Sun Throne."
Alathea is furious. Furious at the Aes Sedai, furious at the Wise Ones, furious at the Dragon Reborn, furious at herself. It has taken time for the shock of the battle to wear off, but as it has, her numbness has been replaced by anger. How did I find myself in this situation? I never intended to put a toe out of line with the Tower, and yet they treat me as if I had thrown my lot in with the rebels just for traveling by necessity with those who have! And these Rebels, they are no better. Their false Amyrlin at least gave me a chance to swear to her and did not hinder me when I did not, but they themselves treat me no better than those loyal to the Tower. And these Wise Ones! It stings that I have to bow to them, but it stings more that I have been pulled into their "apprenticeship" by mere association with these Aes Sedai who will likely never consider me to be one of them! And all because of this Dragon, who cares not for reason or circumstance, only for expediency! But rant as she may, she knows that her problems started when she joined her companions in Illian so long ago. If I had but refused to follow Jak and returned to the Tower when I knew I should, I would not be here, yes? But even knowing then what I do now, would I have declined the chance to follow him?
Although she is angry, Alathea knows better than to express it aloud. I have run too many laps around camp for infractions I had no knowledge of committing. I would be stupid to knowingly earn more, yes? And so, other than a certain tightness to her lips and the occasional angry glare, she tries to carry herself with as much calm as she can manage. She does her best not to glare icily at the Wise One as she sets Fiallain in charge over her, and manages to avoid extending that glare to Fiallain herself. She waits without complaint as she and her companions stand in line for a Gateway to Cairhein, and doesn't flinch at the invisible saidin-spun weaves supporting it. She doesn't even look up at the Asha'man who gives Jasper his orders. It is only a matter of time before the world makes sense again, yes?
At Jasper's apology, however, she smiles. He had, of course, already apologized to her in person, but it still makes her happy to hear the sincerity and the concern for his companions in his voice. Although she has likewise already accepted, she again warmly acknowledges her feelings. "Of course you are forgiven. What good would holding the past against you do when so much has changed since then?" And now, away from the camp and the remnants of battle, she can almost pretend that her problems with the Aes Sedai, the Wise Ones, and the Dragon Reborn are no more.
Ryland stops and looks back over his shoulder as Jasper has his say. The woodsman just grunts and nods his head at the Asha'man before turning backaround, only to be stoped again as Jed places a hand on his shoulder. Ryland looks intently as the warder says something only the two of them can hear, then gives a slight nod of his head.
The Boarderlander once again continues to walk towards Cairhein, and the fate that awaits them all.
The trip to the city is quick and soon you find yourselves passing through what used to be the Foregate, now burned ruins from when the Shaido attempted to take the city. Moving through a set of massive gates, you all sign in to the city rolls with one of the guards. Having done that, you head into the city proper and it's as impressive a city as any of you have seen.
Straight roads bisect the hills and all the streets seem to be at right angles to each other. The streets are crowded with all manner of people, including a large number of Aiel. There is much commotion as the Dragon Reborn had only just been through here and vendors and hawkers attempt to sell wares to all the people churned in his wake.
What little wind there was outside the walls is quickly lost and the oppresive heat rises in the city. There are any number of inns that appear to have rooms available for rent as you travel forward.
Jasmine breathes in the sights and sounds of the city before mentioning over the din We can stay at The Great Tree if they have room available. I have stayed there before and Mistress Tiedra lays a fine table. I am also in dire need of a bath. Wrinkling her nose she looks at Jed and says As are you in desperate need Jed. she says grinning at him. Enjoying the playful banter and her feeling of freedom, however temporary.
Lead on Jasmine. Jasper says, riding close to Alathea, a stern gaze at those that come to close to her.
Alathea shrugs at Jasmine's suggestion. Her own memories of Cairhein are not pleasant, and are uncomfortably similar to recent events. She had been in Cairhein barely a week when the Aiel came across the mountains to besiege the city. She had not taken part in the battle, of course: before Dumai's Wells, she'd have never thought to take part in battle as an Accepted. I hope to never take part in battle again, whether I am still Accepted or not!
Although Alathea had not fought against the Aiel at Cairhein, she had worked long in the aftermath of the siege, assisting the Aes Sedai in their Healing of the survivors and consoling those whose loved ones were beyond Healing. At the time, Abethia Sedai had noticed her talents and all but told her that she belonged in the Yellow. She had politely but firmly declined the Sister's hints, confident in the path she had chosen for herself. I wonder what has become of Abethia? I did not see her in Salidar, nor was she captured by the Dragon Reborn. I hope that she is safe in the Tower.
Shaking herself from her reverie, Alathea nods at Jasmine's suggestion. "I have not had much experience with the inns of Cairhein, yes? If your Great Tree has baths as you say, I will be happy to follow you there. And if they have a bed for me, then I will be even happier."
Ryland signs his real name into the book and moves on to allow the others to do the same. He listens to the group before shaking his head and shrugging his shoulders. "One inn is a good as the next, as long as it has a bath. Some of you really need one badly." With that the woodsman steps aside to let someone else take the lead.
Fiallain signs the book, using her true name as well. Wrinkling her nose she shakes her head. " I do not understand why you would waste good water on something as mundane as a bath when a sweat tent would serve better. Anyway, a bed does sound wonderful though. Is this inn far, Jasmine?"
Jasmine and Jed lead the way through Cairhien, winding amongst the throngs of people. After a little while they pull up at a well apointed inn, three stories of red brick with a shingled roof. A wall surrounds the entire grounds and to the side there is a small barn for the horses. A few of the stable hands move out to take your reins and lead the horses off.
Opening the door of the inn, the pleasant smells of baking bread fill your noses and a few of the staff move unhurriedly about the common room, cleaning and sweeping the floors and tables. As you enter, a stout woman with a pristine white apron stretched across her ample bossom moves forward, a smile on her face.
Mi'lady! Mi'lord! So good to see you again. What brings you to my humble door step again? Will you be staying long? Mistress Velasan Tiedra looks to the rest of your companions, her eyes going a little wide at the sight of Fiallain in her Aiel dress and blouse. And you've brought friends with you as well. Well we've got the rooms for you and your friends of course.
She motions for some of the serving girls to come over before continuing. It's a bit early in the day for supper but would you like me to have something prepared for you and your friends? The girls will show everyone to their rooms and help you get settled. And of course if you need anything, just ask.
Jasmine smiles warmly at Mistress Tiedra's welcome while ushering her companions in, letting them introduce themselves as they wish. Once done she will say It is a pleasure to be back Mistress Tiedra and I see The Great Tree's reputation as the top inn in Cairhien has not been diminished in the slightest and nor has your hospitality. As far as what we need, I believe even before your excellent food, baths are our top order I think.
Fiallain, who hasn't been able to find an hour's rest since Dumai's Wells, but who has been digging pits and scurrying at the Wise Ones' every beckoning finger, yawns widely and jumps in, ...And even before baths, bed. I feel as though I could sleep a week.
As she speaks, she takes in the room, its furnishings, and the patrons, then without another word follows one of the serving girls to the rooms.
Ryland stops in the door way to the inn. The smell of this many people in one enclosed space begins to overwhelm the woodsman, as he takes a step back into the courtyard. "I will check on the horses and a replacement mount for myself."
Light! I know these people just went through a seige but there must be water for baths! They smell like they havent bathed in weeks. The Boarderlander's nostrils flair and he shakes his head roughly. Did someone die up stairs?
Alathea nods politely at Mistress Tiedra's welcome, and allows herself to be led to her assigned room. Before the serving girl leaves, she politely requests that water for a bath be brought to her room and presses a coin into the wide-eyed girl's hand. "If it would come with more haste, the water does not have to be warm, yes?"
With her bath drawn, Alathea gratefully slips into the cool water and allows herself some time to soak and relax. The water seems to wash away not only the dirt and grime of battle and travel, but some of the tension in her muscles. Eventually, she picks up the cake of soap provided and scrubs herself vigorously, as if seeking to scrub away the events of the last few weeks.
Satisfied that she is sufficiently clean, Alathea dries herself off and unpacks her Accepted robes from her chest and dresses herself. Once ready, she descends to the common room of the Great Tree to wait for her companions. Anticipating their imminent arrival, she orders a large ewer of wine, and pours herself a glass.
Fiallain grimaces, her aching limbs wanting nothing more than to sink into the inviting bed in the room next to Alathea's. It can wait she thinks resolutely.
As Alathea slips into her room, awaiting the bath water, Fiallain follows in behind her, wrapping her knuckles on the door as she enters. "I would talk with you a moment Alathea. I will not be long as I know you want to relax, but this can wait no longer."
Fia fidgets uncomfortably a moment, then speaks, her eyes not quite meeting the other woman's. "I have much toh towards you, Alathea. More today than ever before. It was not far from here that we first met and you saved my hide, for which I am very grateful. But in turn, I have failed you, and so lessen myself. I was told that you were hurt badly in the battle... that you lay as when you found me. That is my fault. Had I not rushed foolishly off ahead like a new maiden too eager for her first dance, you would not have come to harm. I have not been a good friend. I did not protect you as I swore to do. I should have been at your side and I was not. The blame is mine. I am ashamed of how I behaved. This one does not deserve it, but I hope you can forgive her.
Jasmine will head into the bathing room with relish once they are prepared, the steam feeling wondrous and the sight of the copper tubs with the pots of hot water near almost making her groan with delight. Shooing away the attendant with murmurs that she can handle herself, Jasmine sinks into the almost too hot to stand water inch by glorious inch until she is submerged up to her nose. The last few months of battles and hardship is leeched out ever so slowly by the heat. Alone for the first time in months she feels unexpected tears begin to course down her face.
Worry over her companions, confusion over what to do about her swearing fealty to the Dragon Reborn mere days after being raised Aes Sedai by the Amyrlin Seat, frustration with Alathea over her loyalty to a woman who is trying to single handedly destroy the White Tower, all are brought to the surface and washed away in a haze of heat and tears. The mixed feeling of relief and weariness settle over her as she begins her novice exercises to clear her mind and attain serenity once more.
Alathea looks up as Fiallain enters and motions her in, but says nothing. The woman's demeanor is uncertain and nervous, a huge change from the sure and confident manner that Alathea is used to. That woman looked fearless as she charged into the thick of battle. What could be worse than that?
Alathea listens calmly as Fiallain pours out her apologies, waiting until she is finished to speak. Choosing her words carefully, she begins, I know that you Aiel have customs that hold more importance than I can know, so forgive me if I break one or another." Pausing to make sure the other woman has heard her, she continues. "You are, if you will forgive me for saying so, being a fool, Fiallain. How often have we risked our lives together? How often have you put your own life on the line to protect me with your spears? How often have you and I fought together? I have lost count, but it is a large number of times, yes? Now think on this: if you were not there in any of those times, would I have survived? You have protected me well, and if you think that you are in my debt, know that I think it is the other way around."
Alathea shifts in the water to show her side to Fiallain. The wound that struck her down has disappeared, but the skin in its place is still pink and tender. "It is true that I was hurt in the fighting, but I survived without your protection, yes? You were likely hurt in the battle, too, and I am ashamed that was not there to help you, either. We were all foolish, I think. We came upon that battle, and we did not make a plan. We all had our own concerns, and we all rushed in to see to them without telling each other. If there is blame to go around for what happened, it is for all of us to share."
Uncertain whether she's offended her friend, Alathea smiles kindly. "I cannot make you believe that you have met your debt, Fiallain; I can only tell you that as far as I'm concerned, you have. There is nothing for me to forgive you for. I know that it is sometimes harder to forgive your own self than it is to forgive another, but please try."
Silently following the servant to his room, Jasper drops his bag onto the floor and pulls out some clean cloths. wait a moment, sir he says to the servant. Getting undressed, he hands his dirty clothes to the servant. Please have these washed for me tonight. i appreciate it
Walking down the hall in a towel at his waist, Jasper easily finds the communal bathing room. Jumping in, he splashes water all over him, and soaps off the travel of the road, and is detached when he discovers chunks of human flesh dropping out of his hair into the bath. Jasper sits and stares at it, reflecting back onto what all has happened these past 4 days.
Shaking his head, he finishes up his bath and towels off. Putting on clean clothes, and a clean black jacket. Taking a moment to polish the pins, Jasper carefully buttons up the jacket and walks down stairs, a withdrawn look from his face.
Coming down the stairs, Jasper sees Alathea at a table with Fia. Walking up to the table, Jasper takes the chair right next to Alathea, pouring his own glass of wine, and topping of Alathea's and Fia's.
so anyone know what is good to eat here?
Ryland makes his way into the stabbles, making his way through the stalls. The smell of the horses and the quiet finally calming his nerves as he pats some of the horses on the neck as he moves to a large water trough. The woodsman strips and washes the dirt and grime from his body and his clothes.
These stalls smell better than that inn. How can they stand it in there?
The boarderlander wrings his clothes out and hangs them over the gate to a stall, then gathers fresh hay and makes a quick bed. Ryland lays down and pulls some of the hay over his body, quickly falling asleep.
It is kind of you to consider my obligation paid. However, you do not understand Ji'e'toh, for you are not of the three-fold-land. It is the one that incurs the debt that determines the toh required to satisfy honor. I do not place my honor so lightly that a life-debt is easily satisfied. She snorts dismissively. The other fights.. we were never really in danger. Child's play. She then grins a little. Just a few wetlanders and a shadowspawn or two... nothing dangerous that you would really needed me for. The smile slips as she becomes serious once more. What you say is right though, we were all careless that day. I do not mean to be quite so foolish again.... Giving the other woman a stern look, she continues dryly,And it will be I who determines when my obligation is met, as is proper, not you.
Smiling once more, she makes small talk until Jasper arrives. Downing the wine after he tops her glass, she gives him a grin as well. This tastes pleasant enough, but it lacks kick. You should try to get your hands on some Oosquai if you want a real drink, Jasper. She winks, then yawns, getting to her feet and stretching. I need sleep, or I will be no good for anything. If the others arrive and we need to discuss our plans, come get me.
After leaving the other two in the commons, Fia will head back to her room and pass out.
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It is an almost shockingly peaceful night after what you had just been through. Baths are had and soreness seems to seep out of muscles. Ryland is markedly absent from any conversations and relaxations.
In the morning you all gather in the common room to discuss your next moves. Ryland is there with you and although somewhat cleaner, the stray strands of hay in his hair and clothes mark his night as spent in the stables with the horses. His nose seems to crinkle every so often as if he smells something rotten.
Already news is starting to filter through the city of the actions of the last few days, rumors circulating about what happened and it's impact. One thing you're able to pick up on is that Lady Colavere, the Dragon Reborn's steward has fallen from favor. Some even say her titles and lands have been seized, although that seems almost too far fetched to be true.
The food is good and plentiful and you all set about it while determining your next course of action.
Jasmine is looking beautiful as she makes her way to the private dining room for breakfast and to meet with her companions. Once everyone is assembled she will say My first suggestion would be to go and meet with Daria, one of Merriane's eyes and ears. If she does not know what happened perhaps she can lead us in the proper direction.
Fiallain enters the dining room looking a bit disheveled, but better rested even so. The puffiness of her eyes all but receded after the night's rest. She slips into the chair nearest Ryland, offering him and the others a friendly, if still a half-asleep "Good morning."
She nods at Jasmine's suggestion and concurs, "That does seem the most reasonable place to start looking. Perhaps the roofmistress here can point the way to this Daria."
Jed, smelling fresh and now with well-polished armor and a sharpened sword (currently in its sheath, of course) enters the common area early, before Jasmine arrives. He smiles as Jasmine enters, and it is clear to everyone that he is in a very good mood. The recent turn of events has been good for Jed, though he does have more weight on his shoulders now. Still, having a Warder's cloak has done wonders for Jed's mood.
As Jasmine speaks, Jed finds himself nodding along with her words, not because he feels he must concur, but because it is the most logical thing to do.
Ryland sits at the table holding a slice of ham with his hands and tearing peices from it with his teeth. The woodsman nods his head at Fia as she tells everyone hello and continues to eat as the others discuss thier plans.
Alathea walks into Jasmine's dining room well-rested and clean, and wearing her Accepted's dress. A bed to sleep on and no reason to hide who I am, and it is almost as life is normal again.
Alathea listens to Jasmine's suggestion, but does not reply immediately. She knows that by continuing on with the false Amyrlin's commands, even just by traveling with Jasmine and Litheene, she is further damaging her chances at acceptance from the loyal Aes Sedai. If I had known that this would be my lot, would I have denied the false Amyrlin? If I was damned from the beginning, would there have been a reason for not embracing it?
Even as frustrating as her problems are, though, Alathea realizes that they are the least of her worries. She has sworn to the Dragon Reborn, and as uncomfortable as the thought is, it is her duty to obey his commands. For now, it seems that the Dragon Reborn wishes them to carry on with the false Amyrlin's work. I am not assisting the false Amyrlin. I am carrying out my sworn duty to the Dragon Reborn. She's unsure if the thought is true, and even if it is, the thought does not make her feel any better.
"I would rather see this woman and find her to be unable to help than to sit here and do nothing, yes? When we are all ready, let us follow Jasmine Sedai."