The Wheel of Time turns, and Ages come and pass leaving memories that become legend, then fade to myth, and are long forgot when that Age comes again. In one Age, called the Fourth Age by some, an Age yet to come, an Age long past, a wind blasted from the north, upon the slopes of Shayol Ghul. The wind was not the beginning. There are neither beginnings nor endings to the turning of the Wheel of Time. But it was a beginning.
The wind crashed upon the dark, lifeless mountain that is the Dark One's prison. The perpetual fog that envelops the lowlands and foothills swirls, like vipers winding upon each other, writhing for the kill. The fog grows a mind of its own; tendrils seeking out the large shadowspawn forces that are encamped within the area. Tendrils, thick like trees, yet sinewy like a reed, glide, caressing the land. Anywhere these tendrils lay upon, withers and dies. Shadowspawn, Myrddraal, Trollocs, Drakhar, shiver as it engulfs them, filling them with the Dark One's faint presence.
The Dark One. The greatest threat the world has ever seen, will be seen again some day, as the Wheel turns and the Pattern is woven. His presence was felt the greatest upon Shayol Ghul and its immediate surroundings. 200 years it has been since the Dragon Reborn died, saving the world, and all of creation, from the fate that the Dark One desired.
Trollocs, Myrddraal, darkfriends, dreadlords, Gray Men, Samma N'Sei, and other creatures that were born of the Dark one's taint congregate around within the Blasted Lands, for there is still strength in numbers.
Beyond the reach of the taint, a 10 day journey for Aiel, the taint has subsided. What was once known as the Blight has receded over the years. twisted mockeries of life has died and quickly rotted away, allowing for fresh plants and wildlife to invade the area. Where once was brown and rot, now is life and greenery.
It is far to the West, West and a bit south, that the wind travels. It moves over rivers and valleys, hills and mountains, and beyond.
It finally settles upon a small town. A small town that has grave significance to two mighty giants.
Within its borders are groups of mercenaries, those that are just a small group, and those connected to a large company. They are paid to stand ready. to stand ready against an army that may or may never come.
South of this village, five miles away, sits another army. Its just as large as the one that is stationed in this small town. Yet, instead of mercenaries, it is the Seanchan who wait, ready to fight. Awaiting an attack that may or may not come.
Then there are those that live within Kandelmar, and also of the country of Arad Doman. A country that is torn in two. A country split by two different ideas. Written, or intended. The people that claim this land as their own care little for written or intended, as they maintain the daily struggle of life. THey care little for the armies within the country, yet they care a lot. They are Arad Doman, yet with a government in exile.
It has been this way for 200 years.
200 years of a Cold War.
A Cold War between the Seanchan Empire, and the Nations of the West.
Bormanes sits astride Glider, riding into the town with his sister, Dalia, a rare frown on his face. It had been a long journey from Tar Valon, where he'd gone thinking to visit Dalia for a few days or so before heading to the family estates, and instead had found himself convinced to accompany her as they rode across nearly the length of the continent, heading for some small town or other right at the border between the Nations of the West and the Seanchan Empire, in what was Arad Doman. They'd crossed the southern Borderlander nations - Arafel, Kandor, and Saldaea - to get here. Although, come to think of it, since there wasn't really a Blight anymore, was it still right to call them the Borderlands? A question to ponder, as it were.
Turning to her, he asked, "Dear sister, why is it that we've come here again? This is a rather long distance to come for an errand. Couldn't we have just Traveled or something like that?"
"Come now Jair, your mother has two sons already in the real blight guarding the border to restore the families honor. Her third son there would be too much. Head west towards Domani. Join a company there protecting against the Seanchan. Make a name for yourself.... besides boy forget Haliene's sharp tongue, forget about her amongst the Domani women eh?"
He could hear his uncle's, his mothers surviving brother, telling him after his third attempt to sign up with forces heading north towards Shayol Ghul finished up the annual recruiting drive in his mind, and again he spat on the ground from atop his horse.
"Blood and ashes that was a foolish move."
He muttered to himself as he sat atop his horse looking into the small town. It didnt look like the sort of place where a young man could make a name for himself, a place where he could help wash away the sins of a forefather who made the foolish mistake of joining the wrong side in a war. A place where the great-great grandson of a friend of the dark... of a traitor could fix past mistakes.
He glanced back torwards his spare horse, at the moment carrying most of his gear and spare food and sighed. So far for his troubles to this land he had been taken advantage of by wily traders, and then robbed...probably by the very same traders.That was of small matter though, as was the fact that while he had seen many a scantily dressed beautiful Domani lady... He had not drawn any of their eyes.
Well there was that one young woman at the inn, but her brothers and father kept very dark glares on him it seemed at all times, and he had given his mother his word of honor that he would cause no fights before he was enrolled in a proper company hear along the 'front' as it were with the Seanchan empire.
He pulled sealed letter given to him by his uncle, a letter to an old friend who supposedly had settled down in this area and ran an inn, but then cursed darkly as a gust of wind, a wind he swore for a moment held the sickening sweetness of the tainted lands near Shayol Ghul blew by pulling the letter from his hand and onto the ground... in a small puddle.
" Blood and Ashes!"
He cursed again as he dismounted. He took a step torwards the folded letter, slowly soaking up water by the minute only to have to leap back as a horseman galloped through the water from the puddle splashing up and almost striking the young woodsman in the face. In his haste to leap back the hood of his cloak flew off, the light tinkling of bells interwoven into two long dark braids escaped. His shoulders slumped as his eyes went from staring darkly at the rider long past him back to the letter now trampled by hoof into the mud no doubt ruined. This whole adventure so far seemed tainted with the dark one's luck.
There was a simplicity in the life of the Tower that he missed. There was always more to do than they had time for, never enough hours in the day to complete it all, and through it all a watchful eye on their backs ready to discipline far more than praise. Yet for all the hard work, the drills, the training and the long hours combing over books it at least had something over their current situation.
It wasn't boring.
That's exactly what he thought as he road astride his horse with the lead to his pack horse tied to the saddle. Traveling so great a distance he'd packed for everything. Warm and cold weather, emergency food, supplies, tools, everything he and his sister could think of. While she'd remained behind at the tower, he had set off with expectations of at least a few good tales to bring home.
Instead the broad shouldered man had very little in the way of stories, other than an outbreak of saddle soars and having to help push a tree from a road in the midst of a downpour. Grand stories of an adventure they were not. But as they crossed into the town in what he supposed was still Arad Domani despite current situations, he began to understand a few things.
The tower had it's fair share of Domani women, usually of the Green Ajah, who wore rather immodest dresses and were very 'friendly' to the Warders in training when they would practice without their shirts on in the summer heat. Now he rode his horse along streets lined with Domani women of all shapes and sizes and found the same style of dress every direction he turned. Enough that he'd considered unbinding his long pale hair to keep his head from swiveling, but long hours being reminded of how bad loose hair was in a fight kept him from doing so.
Instead he looked down at the misfortune of Jair's predicament and drew his reigns in, "Neither, actually. Just some muddy water. Or, I hope that's mud..." He shook his head after a moment and waved him up with a smile on his bearded face, "Come on. You don't look Aiel enough to drown in that puddle, so you might as well come along before you absorb most of the water in your boots."
A small, dark man astride a small, dark horse, Lucius ambles into town slowly. The wind this day has a curious feel, fell and refreshing both. It seems a Wind rather than merely a wind. Lucius pauses at the edge of the town square. His hand absently rests on the hilt of the plain, curved dagger as he watches two men discuss a muddy puddle. The first seems to know his way around the sword he bears, moving with the lazy grace most often seen near Aes Sedai. A Warder then, or one who has trained with them. The other makes Lucius think of the thinly-peopled parts of the world; places where the hand of men lay only lightly on the land.
Lucius ignores the looks he draws, accustomed by now to the sidelong glances. Two-hundred-odd years is not enough time to erase the apprehension they feel at viewing a man in the black coat Lucius wears. Though the Taint is long gone, blessed be the Lord Dragon for that act, centuries of fearing his kind leaves deep marks in a people.
A subtle shift in his seat and Amela steps forward once more. Lucius guides the gelding toward a street vendor, and dismounts beside the man's stall. He passes the man a few coins for a small meat pie. For such a small man, Lucius' voice is shockingly deep, deeper than any person he had ever met aside from the Ogier, "Thank you, goodman, that is quite exactly what I needed. Would you be able to recommend an inn where I might take a room?"
a light sting is inflicted upon Bormane's ear, like someone flicked it. Hard.
that will be enough out of you, young Taborwin! an old voice says, from the front of the long line of riders.
old, even be aes sedai standards, the lady at the front of the line, Manwhen Sedai of the Green Ajah had turned slightly to stare upon the young noble. Her face, lined by years of hard work, determination, and a sour disposition, appears to have been carved from sandstone. White hair, long to below her hips, wafts and glides about in the strange wind, as if having a mind of its own.
we only travel if we must. Riding upon a saddle for a few months while taking the time to see the rest of the world that we help to defend from the Dark One make you appreciate what you saved! And-she cuts off sharply to inhale. a second flick upon the other earand we are now the country of Arad Doman. Speaking so openly about the One Power will get you a visit by those Seanchan Ravens you hear whispered. Technincally, this land is Seanchan Land, but the lands of the west do not recognize it as such. So we play this game. And you shall play it as well
the ride into the town of Kandelmar is uneventful. the main highway that connects the town to Saldea is large, wide, and properly paved. A strategic assest for the nations of the West to be able to move their forces quickly should the need arise.
Watch towers dot the country side, running in a line from the far east and heading west to the sea. Called Barlin's wall, after the Great Captain Barlin devised the defensive wall that runs along the peace zone between the Seanchan and The West. A wall that is 45 feet high, 20 feet thick, with watch towers every 100 yards. A symbol to the never ending difference of opinion.
The Dark One's thorn! Manwhen Sedai says loudly as she stops in front of an inn and dismounts. we shall stay here and rest for the evening. tomorrow, we have work to do. Accepted Dalia, I will secure rooms for the night, ensure that everyone here stables their horses and secures their gear. We already had one robbery on the way here, and we dont need another.
Bormanes winces as first one ear, then the other is flicked by the old Aes Sedai. What am I, an initiate of the Tower? I thought I was just stopping off to visit my sister and spend a few days in Tar Valon, but nooo, had to be convinced that it was worth it to go gallivanting across the Westlands with her and this old Aes Sedai bat. I should have just gone to the estates and sent a letter. Still, the young noble holds his tongue, choosing to avoid aggravating her furter. As they ride into the town of Kandlemar, he studies the wall, and thinks of these Seanchan Ravens she'd mentioned.
Once they stop at the inn, Bormanes dismounts and waits until the older Aes Sedai goes into the inn before turning to Dalia and again asking, "How did you convince me to do this again?"
When the Caravan stopped for the night in the little town, Tiana returned to the group, seeming to just appear out of the surrounding countryside and step in to the road. She lowered her shoufa and settled it around her shoulders, pausing for a moment to brush dust from her hair before moving towards the Inn.
Tiana was short for an aiel, barely bigger than these soft Wetlander women, if even in some cases. She looked the picture of an aiel warrior, dressed in cadin'sor, spears and shortbow cased on her back, her veil draped around her shoulders, ready in an instant to be raised for the dance. She stalked towards the inn, ignoring the presence of the Aes Sedai and anyone attached to the Tower, as she slipped in to the cool, darker interior.
Tiana had hitched a gateway to the Tower a couple of weeks previous, in the hopes of enrolling as a Novice. The Wise Ones would not take her as an apprentice, claiming she did not have the right personality for it. So to prove them wrong, she had headed out in to the world, looking to join up as a Novice.
And that is how she found herself alone, surrounded by Wetlanders, in a small dingy Inn.
'First one to look at me crooked gets a knife in the heart, blind me if they don't!'
Suppressing the slight shiver as the Aes Sedai channels, Lucius tries to remain inconspicuous. I do not like the way that woman looks at me as if I am some mix between her too-mischievous, child nephew and the town thief. Since having joined the caravan from Tar Valon, I really must learn Traveling as soon as I am able, Lucius has spent the time avoiding Manwhen Sedai as much as he could without being rude.
Lucius dismounts in the innyard and leads Amela to a stall where he spends several minutes caring for the gelding. Picking up his saddlebags, Lucius enters the inn hoping for a warm meal and a bath.
She grins as Bormanes is reprimanded by the Aes Sedai elder, while she would not have approached it that way, perhaps she should. Alas, Dalia has a soft spot for men, especially her little brother as he gets into no end of trouble. He always has and Dalia suspects he always will.
Dalia curtsies at the orders given to her by Manwhen Sedai, "Yes, Aes Sedai Manwhen".
He face then becomes the cold impassive mask of a fully trained Aes Sedai as she regards the caravan members cooly, "I trust you all know what to do and how best to care for your own gear and horses? Perhaps I shall spot check this time just to be safe".
She stands still though as the caravan springs into action to prepare for an evening in the Inn.
"Dear Brother I am quite sure it was you who convinced me to let you come along. I believe you were expecting "adventure" yes?"
"It was supposed to be an introduction leader to one of the commanders here... a friend of my uncles. Not much more than soggy parchment now."
He began glumly to the other young guardsman. He stopped frowning as the Aes Sedai spoke... not directly to him thank the light. He still had a ridiculous fear that one day she would call him out and strike him down with her lightnings for his forebear's foolishness.
He paused a moment longer to watch the two Cairhienin bantered back and forth, but only to see if the pretty Accepted had any particular desires or needs. Not that he was offering his services or anything of course.
"Might as well make myself useful."
He muttered guiding both of his horses torwards the stable. While he worked on first his horses, than any of the others that needed tended to he thought about what he could recall about this particular town.
’I should never listen to bartenders, at least not when I’ve had that that much to drink. “There’s a group headed to Kandelmar” he says, “They can use a good man” He says, “They got robbed headed here, so they want to add a couple of swords “ he said, “there’s strength in numbers” he says.’ Realizing he’s dropping further back than he intends, he clicks at his large sorrel mare, touching her gently in the ribs to catch back up. His thoughts returning to the fat bartender. ’That old buzzard didn’t say “oh by the way, Elathras, the whole kit and caboodle is run by an Aes Sedai that makes the blight look friendly.’
Hearing Bormanes commenting something about the distance traveled, he returns to his thoughts. ’Blast, I intentionally traveled a distance! I went east instead of dropping south east to Tar Valon. I didn’t mind the extra miles as long as I avoided Tar Valon and anyone that can channel.’ He shudders, ’It just gives me the willies’ Looking from the older woman in green to Bormanes sister, to the one called Lucius wearing black. ’Now I’m travelling with three of them and an Aiel, no less.’
He looks to the young nobleman, just in time to see the young man wince. ’Ah ha! She did that, one of them did that! I’d bet my last mark one of them did something. Poor guy. I should invite him to leave when I go. I may as well let ‘the Tower’ pay for one more night, I can leave in the morning if I want to. Might ask Jair to go with me. It’s a bit of bad luck, him ruining that ‘letter of introduction.’ He’s a good scout though, he’ll get on someplace. Weyland seems ok, but he’ll never leave those two. He wants to be with them! His nose is so green I’m surprised an Ogier hasn’t built a stedding in one of his nostrils yet. ’
Smiling at his own joke, Elathras reins his mare to a stop in front of “The Dark One’s Thorn” ’Looks like a decent place, who Am I to complain? I love a good tavern, especially when someone else is paying. I don’t know what work she’s talking about. The good news, is I only signed on to get them here. I can leave whenever I want.’ Dismounting his sorrel mare, he leads her forward a little, intentionally avoiding eye contact with the blond Cairhienin Accepted, catching the reins of her horse, he winks at Bormanes ”Hey Bormanes, I’ll take both your horses. Go scout out the best gaming table in there. I’ll join you in a moment.”
Taking the animals, he joins Jair, heading toward the stables, smiling, ”Your not fooling anyone Jair, that Aes Sedai gives you the willies too!”
Bormanes frowned at Dalia's response. True, he'd told her he would ride with her as far as Andor before turning back to Cairhien, but after that robbery, he'd decided it was best he stay with her to keep her safe. Well, maybe it was his fault he was here. It had seemed the best choice at the time, though. Come to think of it, hadn't the legendary Great Captain Matrim Cauthon, Prince of the Ravens, once said that his whole life consisted of him making the best choice at the time? Things had turned out pretty okay for him - although he didn't think he'd marry a Seanchan noblewoman, to say nothing of the heir to their throne. Of course, Cauthon had also been ta'veren, and Bormanes certainly wasn't that.
"You may be right, sister, but I most certainly was not looking for adventure. Just a chance to spend some time with you. We just never have the chance to spend time together since you went to Tar Valon." When Elathras offers to take their horses, Bormanes smiles and says, "Thank you, Elathras. That's quite friendly of you. I'll make sure to point out the best dice game in the inn. See you soon, sister."
With that, Bormanes takes his saddlebags and heads for the inn, intent on finding his room and his wine - perhaps even a pretty serving maid. New inns always offered new experiences.
She laughs at her brother's response, "The life of a Novice much less an Initiate is time consuming Brother. I am glad you are still here with me even if your mouth gets you in trouble though truth be told, it gets you into trouble wherever you go, this time Manwhen Sedai simply called you to task for it".
Dalia nods to Elathras, "Indeed thank you for your assistance", and allows him to take her horse.
She walks the grounds instead of heading inside, with so much time spent in the Tower it was good to get out, plus, once the horses were stabled she wanted to double check the men's work. It wasn't that she didn't trust them, it was that Manwhen Sedai didn't trust them and she would be held as responsible as they for future failures.
the rumors say the seanchan ravens are a group of spys that prowl the northeastern side of the wall, gathering information, kidnapping female channelers, killing those that pose the greatest danger to the land in this area.
same as DC 10, but also that the walls were built with Asha'man help. It is theorized that the walls themselves are power-wrought, never needing maintenance nor repair.
Jair, takes it upon himself to secure the horses in the stables for the night. with a few kind pats, a little bit of apple chunks, and the promise of a warm roof, he easily leads the 12 hourses that make up the caravan into the stables.
Dalia, watches the men unload the goods and take them into the small warehouse that is more an oversized storage shed and secure them for the night. She catches Jair leading all the horses into the stables with ease, and for her part, a mild form of being impressed sparks in her head. OVerall, the unloading process has gone as planned.
******
The inside of the Dark One's Thorn is well built, maintained, and has a homey feeling within. The heavy smells of stew, soup, beef and pork, apple pie, fresh bread, and other delicacies hurls back the heavy town smells found outside.
Large and small tables, square and circular, cover the floor, providing ample sitting space for over 200 patrons at a time. Yet today, the building is mostly empty. Several Domani women walk around the large room, trays of ale and food held aloft. Their dress, as is expected of a proper domani lady, is clingy, revealing, and seductive. The few people who are in the large room track the serving women, some with lust and desire, others just enjoying the beauty of these young maidens.
Far off to one side, her back to the wall, sits Manwhen Sedai, several large tankards of ale and two large birds steaming set upon the table before her. Seeing you enter, she waves each of you over with an air of expectation.
Rooms have been provided for you. Up on the third floor. Please go up and stow your items, and take this time to refresh yourself from the travels of the road. Please meet me back down here promptly at 7. as she finishes, she hands each person a room key.
"I dont know if i would call it the willies, i was raised with a healthy respect for the Aes Sedai, I dont think however that Manwhen Sedai has patience for fools... after that mishap with my stolen furs and that 'trader' I'm afraid she has me firmly in that line of work."
He smiled at the warrior, and gave him a nod spending just a few more moments with the horses than was probably necessary.
"Save me a spot at the dicing table and dont steal all the ale. I'll be there in a few more moments. I think one of the horses that was pulling the wagon may have either tossed a shoe or had one come loose, I want to check it before they settle down for the night."
He began waiting for the other young man to leave before taking his ruined note and trying to find a way to dry it... perhaps he could put it between some excess hay and that would help the moisture. He certainly didnt want anyone else to see how...panicked the loss of it meant to him.
With a final glance at the horses he made for the inn. He gulped when the saw the Aes Sedai wave him over. Thankfully she spoke before he had a chance to sound foolish and apologize for whatever he might have messed up on, and he managed not to breath a sigh of relief when she dismissed him without dressing him down.
He hurried up to his room to put his things away in a hurry, he certainly didnt want any of the young lads he had bonded with somewhat to explore the place without him... or take up all the space at the dicing tables.
Waiving back to Bormanes, Elathras smies, ’I like him, who says nobles are all snobs.’ As he works with Jair, hearing Manwhen Sedai opinion of the woodsman, snorts, ”Respect can always be given at a distance and the further the better I think.’
Helping quickly unsaddle and stable the three beasts he was leading, Elathras watches while Jair, moves cautiously from animal to animal, getting inpatient, he breaths a silent sigh of relief when his friend tells him to ‘save him a spot.’ Smiling and waiving, ”I will.” he heads into the Dark One's Thorn.
’This is a proper tavern, bigger than ‘the nest’ back home, but not as crowded, I wonder why.’ Moving through the tavern, taking his time, he admires the tables and chairs, the woodwork of the bar, the smells from the kitchen and he takes special note of the wait staff. ’I bet these girls earn good tips.’ As his eye follows one particular brunette in a blue dress, he see’s Manwhen Sedai waiving, ’Blast, I wonder if I can pretend I didn’t see her.’ turning to look around, he makes eye contact with the mature green. ’From that look I’m going to assume that’s a no.’
’Promptly back down here at 7:00? What does she have planned for then, I thought we were just extra protection from the road, why did I let that fat bartender talk me into this. Well, at least there’s a room, maybe a hot bath. Certainly time for a game of dice. No need to rile her up.’ Accepting the key, Elathras nods, his head, ”Yes, ma’am, err, Manwhe.., err. Aes Sedai Manwhen.”
Moving back across the room toward the steps, he notices the brunette headed toward the kitchen, calling to her, ”Pardon me, miss. May I ask a couple of questions?” when she stops, he shows her the room key, ”I was told third floor, is there a bathing room on the third floor? I’d really like to soak in a hot tub before I have to report to old….” He stops and looks over his shoulder ’That might not be smart.’ He nods back toward Manwhen. ”Before I need to meet with Aes Sedai Manwhen. Oh, did she say if she was ordering supper for the all of her traveling companions? The stew smells great.” giving a smile as his stomach chooses that moment to growl. ”I've been on the road and haven’t had any proper tavern food lately." Refocusing his thougths, he goes back to the original question. "Sorry, Where can I find the bath house?”
Bormanes looks over the common room as he enters the tavern, a smile on his face as he scans the area. He eyes several of the serving girls, although he remembers something he'd once heard about Domani women. They'll imply they're giving everything you want, but leave with everything they want. Snorting, he thinks, And they leave you thinking they got the better deal. Maybe he wouldn't chase the serving women here after all. The lack of anyone actively gambling was a bit surprising, though - it may be early, but there were usually some off-duty people gambling. He suspected that didn't bode well for him.
Upon seeing Manwhen Sedai glaring at him, he sighs and walks over. Mindful of her prior admonition about mentioning the Power or Aes Sedai, he merely says, "Thank you," and takes his key to head upstairs, seeing Elathras approach one of the serving girls. He'd better be careful with that one. I suspect she'll give him the runaround, and leave him thinking he has a chance.
As he heads up to his room, he hears Elathras mention a bath, then goes over and says, "A bath sounds most enjoyable. I'd like to know where to go as well."
Waiving back to Bormanes, Elathras smies, ’I like him, who says nobles are all snobs.’ As he works with Jair, hearing Manwhen Sedai opinion of the woodsman, snorts, ”Respect can always be given at a distance and the further the better I think.’
Helping quickly unsaddle and stable the three beasts he was leading, Elathras watches while Jair, moves cautiously from animal to animal, getting inpatient, he breaths a silent sigh of relief when his friend tells him to ‘save him a spot.’ Smiling and waiving, ”I will.” he heads into the Dark One's Thorn.
’This is a proper tavern, bigger than ‘the nest’ back home, but not as crowded, I wonder why.’ Moving through the tavern, taking his time, he admires the tables and chairs, the woodwork of the bar, the smells from the kitchen and he takes special note of the wait staff. ’I bet these girls earn good tips.’ As his eye follows one particular brunette in a blue dress, he see’s Manwhen Sedai waiving, ’Blast, I wonder if I can pretend I didn’t see her.’ turning to look around, he makes eye contact with the mature green. ’From that look I’m going to assume that’s a no.’’Promptly back down here at 7:00? What does she have planned for then, I thought we were just extra protection from the road, why did I let that fat bartender talk me into this. Well, at least there’s a room, maybe a hot bath. Certainly time for a game of dice. No need to rile her up.’ Accepting the key, Elathras nods, his head, ”Yes, ma’am, err, Manwhe.., err. Aes Sedai Manwhen.”
Moving back across the room toward the steps, he notices the brunette headed toward the kitchen, calling to her, ”Pardon me, miss. May I ask a couple of questions?” when she stops, he shows her the room key, ”I was told third floor, is there a bathing room on the third floor? I’d really like to soak in a hot tub before I have to report to old….” He stops and looks over his shoulder ’That might not...
Expressionless, Lucius listens to the Aes Sedai before giving a small bow and turning to stow his belongings upstairs, How very like an Aes Sedai and a woman both; give the men instructions to do what they were going to do anyway to reinforce a habit of obedience. Pfaugh! I wish to be done with this woman..."
On his way to the stairs he intercepts one of the serving girls, his voice shockingly deep in a man barely 5'5"; deep enough to be as much felt as heard, "Please forgive the interruption, but will you give me directions to the baths? I wish to refresh myself before taking a meal."
After Manwhen Sedai gives her proclamation, Dalia gives her a curtsey and heads out the door. If I catch someone attempting to steal from the caravan once more, I'll use the One Power to switch them like they'll never forget, then turn them over to the authorities.
She sighs as she heads into the late afternoon the sun slowly setting in the west, It can't hurt to ensure the horses and properly tended for and the equipment properly stowed, these men are too concerned with dicing and chasing Domani women. No doubt in their excitement there will be something not done I will need to correct. As mother always said, the man may be the head but the woman is the neck.
Dalia heads to the stables, drawing slowly down on the source just in case there is some ruffian about who does intend to steal from the caravan once more, It would not be prudent to be caught unawares.
After Manwhen Sedai gives her proclamation, Dalia gives her a curtsey and heads out the door. If I catch someone attempting to steal from the caravan once more, I'll use the One Power to switch them like they'll never forget, then turn them over to the authorities.
She sighs as she heads into the late afternoon the sun slowly setting in the west, It can't hurt to ensure the horses and properly tended for and the equipment properly stowed, these men are too concerned with dicing and chasing Domani women. No doubt in their excitement there will be something not done I will need to correct. As mother always said, the man may be the head but the woman is the neck.
Dalia heads to the stables, drawing slowly down on the source just in case there is some ruffian about who does intend to steal from the caravan once more, It would not be prudent to be caught unawares.
The Inn was like more than a few in Tar Valon save for the low cut of the barmaid dresses and the scent of spiced food. Wood worn with old booze and sweaty patrons stretched out and he could see the years in different amounts on each surface. Some newer than another, some old enough it might have belonged to an Aes Sedai when she was still a girl. Not that he supposed Manwhen reflected on her girlhood much these days. Too many people to lash with her tongue and that gaze of hers.
It would have been a calm type of entrance if he wasn't hauling almost the entirety of his packhorse's saddle across one shoulder casually. His left shoulder bearing the weight of the packs and their contents, his right was left free as he'd been taught. Never letting his instant reach for his sword be obstructed, he calmly crossed the distance, aware that he probably looked like a pack mule on two long legs himself.
The key from the Aes Sedai was a welcome respite. A room with a place to rest his aching back had been something he'd hoped for longer than he cared to talk about. Though no sooner had he entered the modest room and dropped the heavy pack of gear than he turned and locked up, intent on not resting immediately. Many hours of the day left and he didn't intend to waste them lazing about like a Novice skulking in the cellars.
Instead he pulled aside the thick green cloak he'd wrapped himself in and found a place to sit and watch the nearly empty Inn. His sword propped on the table in front of him for ease of access, he glanced about as he waited one of the barmaids and watched the rest of the members of the caravan move to and fro with a keen interest in their comings and goings.
The time flashes by quickly from arrival at the inn to meeting up with ManWhen Sedai.
You congregate within the common room, only to have a sultry Domani serving lady lead you into a back room that holds a large round table, leather clad dining chairs. Red heavy curtains with intricate designs and battle scenes showing the Forces of Light defeating Shadowspawn encompasses the room, while a small firepot crackles in the corner, heating a small tea kettle.
everyone sit.manwhen says abrubtly. Your gaze falls upon her and then on to her companion.
Jamyn Firyn sits next to her, a dark scowl upon his aged face. You grimace at the character that sits looking at you, no love nor friendship between you and him. He has been as annoying as a thorn in your butt while riding in the saddle since Tar Valon.
Old scars cross his face, lining up with where his faded red hair has turned to white, giving him the look of a strange skunk. Standing 6 feet, with a thickness of one used to lifting heavy items for a living, Jamyn has used his size to intimidate others within the caravan to his advantage on more than one occasion.
the look upon his face, the dark scowl, seems to grow darker (if possible) when Lucius walks in. He has made no effort to hide his distaste of Lucius, and for that matter, the Asha'Man and Black Tower as well.
Everyone sits at the table and waits. finally, Dalia nods and sits across from Manwhen. we are all here she says.
Manwhen looks again around the room, and then at Jamyn, who nods once.
What i have to say here is held to this room here, and shall not be spoken of to anyone else outside of this room. Swear to it by the Creator and the Light.
Thank you. Now, to the point. Jamyn here, is a Seanchan Spy Manwhen Sedai says simply.
Bormanes found the whole secrecy thing rather silly. It reminded him of the secret meetings back in Cairhien, where schemes and alliances were hatched - shrouded in secrecy to prevent one’s enemies from learning their plans. Those plans were always about petty, pointless things - how to disgrace this House or better position one’s own. If this was about the same sort of thing, he was going to seriously regret joining this expedition. ”I swear by the Light and my hope of rebirth that I will keep secret what is said in this room.” He swore the oath anyway - the alternative was standing outside, bored. He was sure Manwhen wouldn’t let him return to the common room to drink and gamble.
Upon Manwhen’s revelation about Jamyn, his eyes turned to scarred, obnoxious man who’d been an annoyance the entire trip. A Seanchan spy? If Manwhen knows, she’s likely already flipped him. But why bring him here? Why bring us? What does she want us to do? Bormanes suddenly had the feeling he’d been caught in a trap of his own making - all he’d wanted to do was visit his sister, then protect her, and now he was caught in an Aes Sedai’s web. How could this have happened to him?
When Tiana had entered the Inn, she saught out the Innkeeper, securing her own accomadation, in the hay loft of the barn. She refused to stay under the gaze of the Aes Sedai. She was more comfortable sleeping roungh anyway.
When they were taken in to the private room, Tiana swore the oath grudgingly, but refused to sit, content instead to lean casually against the wall.
When everyone had sworn, the Aes Sedai revealed the identity of the filthy pig and Tiana felt her blood begin to boil. She itched to snatch the life out of him with her bare hands but restrained herself, only because the Aes Sedai had said this so casually.
Against the opposite wall from Tiana, Isa relaxes in an equally deceptive nonchalant manner.
At six feet, the reddish-brown haired warrior is taller than the woman opposite her. She is dressed in Cadin'sor woven to blend into the greener environs of the westlands. She might have been pretty, if not for the angry scar running most of the way up her right cheek and up into the hairline.
On the road, she likely seemed friendly enough to the others, if a bit aloof. Still, she was certainly less... volatile seeming than her fellow maiden, even joining in on a game of dice once or twice and laughing when she lost a rather large wager the last time she played.
Now, having made the oath, she is all seriousness, as her penetrating eyes shift towards the apparently revealed spy. Stonefaced, silent, she watches him and gauges his response.
Just enough time to get things sorted and a hot bath. I don’t see any…’ Stepping in the door of the common room Elathras looks around, ’Blasted Aes Sedai, why did I think we would get a free meal from this, not only is…’ His thought interrupted by the sultry hostess, Elathras follows her into the private meeting room. ’Nice tables and matching curtains. You can tell they entertain import… ah our benefactor, If an Aes Sedai can be called such a thing.’ As Manwhen tells them to sit, Elathras grabs the chair nearest the door. Looking around as he quickly sits. ’Blast, I was right, no food. What’s the point of having a meeting in a tavern if you aren’t serving refreshments.’
’All here, she does have a gift for the obvious, I’m still not sure why I stayed, the thirty marks are nice, but…an oath? Lost in thought for a moment, Elathras looks around the room. Watching Bormanes recite the oath like it was a prayer, then the two ‘Maidens’ ’What have I gotten myself into?’ Making eye-contact with the green Aes Sedai, he speaks the words. ” I Swear by the Creator and the Light.” then quickly looking down. ’Blast that fat bartender.’
As the others take their oaths, Elathras looks up, watching. Then all eyes settle on Manwhen Sedai and she makes her announcement. Elathras looks from her to the redheaded Jamyn, smiling slightly, ”Well that certainly makes him a lot more interesting.” Elathras' eyes widen, realizing he had spoken aloud.
Dalia speaks, "Swear to it by the Creator and the Light".
At the announcement, Dalia retains her composure as best she can and awaits further comment from her Mistress as she is sure there is more to come.
Almost by rote as if even in the light saved 'Borderlands' respect for Aes Sedai was bred into a man He found himself following the others in swearing to keep whatever the Aes Sedai wanted secret. After all he didnt want her looking too closely into anything he did at all of course.
"I swear by the creator and the light."
He was taking a deep breath to calm the nerves when the old Aes Sedai made her next announcement. The words that the man was a spy struck at him hard. The idea that the man whom had been part of their caravan was also a traitor shocked him. He found himself moving away from the man involuntarily only in his haste to move from being near the man he overbalanced on the chair and fell backwards still in the chair.
He managed to hold in the yelp of surprise though he jumped up just as quickly from the fallen chair and the spot on the floor. His hands jerked upwards torwards the blades strapped to his back on instinct as well but just for a second.
"Sorry ...I... just."
He fell silent looking downwards and avoiding meeting anyones gaze as he took a hold of his seat and set it back upright sitting in it rigidly and staring a hole into the table.
Lucius enters the small room, refreshed from his bath and his hunger sated for now. He nearly declines to sit, but at last decides that he will, knowing that sharing a table with Lucius will only further aggravate Jamyn Firyn. Annoying at first, Lucius decided about halfway through the trip to be amused by the man's obvious dislike for the black coat and all it represents.
Lucius murmurs the desired oath to hold in secrecy what the Aes Sedai is about to reveal. When she makes her pronouncement, Lucius flinches slightly and opens himself to the One Power. He stops at the very edge of that torrent of fire and ice and only two things prevent Lucius from outright embracing the source; Manwhen's calm, and the fact that she is much more experienced with the One Power and could probably tie Lucius in knots if she so desired. And she seems to know when I am embracing the Source. No, it would not do to interrupt her theatrics. No, not in the least. He does, however, hold himself ready to wield the One Power at a moment's notice.
His only other reaction is to mutter quietly, "Well, this should be interesting..."
interesting indeed, Mr.Mar'Neill Manwhen says sharply, annoyed at everyones reactions.
Yes, Jamyn here is a spy. And he is someone wjo we must return to get our own spies back she says and stops, as if thst explains it all.
Jamyn, to his credit, rolls his eyes and coughs pointedly. Manwhen quirks an eyebrow at him, and then nods. Ah yes, none of you know what this is.
This is a spy exchange, and i am the representative for the Western lands. My job is to take captured spies, like Jamyn here and take him to the ruins found at the base of Amon Sul. There, i meet with my counter part, we negotiate the exchange of spies, or channellers, and then we trade. All deals must be concluded prior to sunrise of the next day, for these encounters do not officialy exist, and instead would be seen as a sign of aggression. Leading to War.
Tonight, all of you are my escort into noman's land. You guard the spy, ensure his safety, and then help bring back those that have been released.
Bormanes exhales, then asks, "So, all we have to do is escort you and Jamyn to Amon Sul, then escort you and whoever they give us back? Do I have the right of it?" Bormanes wanted to make sure he understood exactly what she was saying - sometimes the truth an Aes Sedai gave you wasn't always the truth in fact.
Lucius' eyes narrow in irritation when he is referred to as "Mister" and he seems about to say something. Then, as if a thought just occurred to him, the irritation melts off his face. His eyes flick toward the privacy curtains and he gives Manwhen Sedai a small bow when he turns back toward the table. Of course. Here in 'enemy' held territory, we should not advertise what we are. Though I am sure they know what an ageless face means. Still, annoying as she is, it would be well to remember the wealth of experience she has at her trade.
Though he wants to say something, Lucius has learned better than to try to fence words with this Aes Sedai; he always comes out on the losing side.
He forwned at Bormanes' question. The answer to that seemed simple, and he wasnt sure if he had asked the right one even....
"What do you need an escort for? I mean what are supposed to be protecting the spy from?"
He asked refusing to call the man by his name now.
Manwhen turns her gaze upon Jair. Her eyes narrow slightly, not appreciating the questioning tone that Jair had, nor the fact that he questioned her.
Have you not been an escort for this journey? pursing her lips, her gaze leaves him and goes to everyone else in the room.
but, to answer Jair's question. We need an escort because there have been times when both sides have actually captured the other side's representative. So, a group of 4-10 people is about the right size, it allows us to enter unseen, and be big enough to keep everyone honest.
Tiana frowned slightly, little more than a hint of a crease in her forehead, before glancing at her Spearsister.
'Clearly a trap!' she signed, glancing at the Spy. 'We will dance the spears with these filthy invaders and when we do, I'll kill the honorless dog that sits before us!'
The thought excited her, she lived for the dance after all, as any true Aiel would.
Isa grimaces slightly as the thoughts expressed by her sister's flashing fingers echo too closely her own. Trap! was the first thing that had crossed her mind.
***It probably is. Likely even, but we will be ready and we will see.***
Inwardly she might have sighed, however. For Isa's part, she would just as soon not have to dance the spears tonight. Not unless it proved absolutely necessary anyway. She rather suspected that tensions were high enough as it was, and the Aiel were supposed to be the peacekeepers.
Keeping her tone respectfully neutral, and turning slightly to Manwhen Sedai, she asks, "This may be a question whose answer needs his ears to not be present for, but do we know who or what it is we hope to exchange this for?"
’Blast, first I get saddled with an Aes Sedai, then I’m told that we have a spy amongst us. Now we learn we have to break the law to give him back and if we get caught we start a war.’ Looking from person to person, listening to Jair, Elthras nods his head, ’That’s a good question, why us, isn’t she supposed to have warders to keep her safe. I know better than signing on for a job after I’ve had a few drinks.’
As Manwhen answers Jair, Elathras is distracted by the two ‘Maidens’ signing each other. ’I wonder what they are …. Wait a minute if there are Aiel here does that mean the ‘peacekeepers’ know about this.’ Looking around the room again, Elathras raises his hand half way, then lowers it. Clearing his voice a little he asks, ”Manw… er Aes Sadai Manwhen, May we assume that the presence of two Algai'd'siswai means that we are working with the permission of the ‘Peacekeepers’ or that the Aiel are at least turning a blind eye to this action?”
Manwhen stops and looks at Elathras, her tongue clicking lightly against the roof of her mouth. That is above your paygrade, nor am I at liberty to speak it. If you want to know more about that, youd have to talk to a Wise One or the Amyrlin.
'Blasted woman, talk to a wise one? talk to the Amyrlin? Is she kidding, I'd rather hang a bell on a trolloc. Well at least the 'Maidens' know how to fight. Let's just get this over with. Then I'll be on my way. Away from all of this craziness.' Looking from the Aes Sadai he looks to Bormanes, his eyes almost pleading. But he says nothing more, crossing his arms as he slouches in his chair.
"Oh... that makes sense I guess... sorry Manwhen sedai."
He said in response to her answer, shoulders slumping.
'What was it that mother used to say? Something about a wise man can learn more from a foolish question than a fool can from a wise answer. I'll have to think the next time i question an Aes Sedai.... What are those Aiel women saying I wonder. I heard they can talk with their hands... it sure looks to be a mouthful.'
He put his hands on the table one atop the other and did his best to not look too foolish as he sat there.