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Post by Trailfoot on Nov 9, 2010 17:22:05 GMT -5
Tinker Camp
"I'll look forward to seeing you dance!" Galin called out after the girl, then smiled to Wren. "We should find seats... it's going to get crowded here soon."
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There is never a better time to ambush an enemy than when the enemy expects to ambush another enemy. The words of her mother's Captain-General echoed in Lancelle's mind as she gazed over the Trollocs, her eyes searching for the dark figure she knew must be nearby. When she failed to locate it, she spoke quietly to Boyd and Reginald. "Close quietly, and engage loudly. Those they target must be warned, but I would rather like to make the first strike before the Halfman knows his forces have been found." She reached out, drawing deep on saidar, feeling the world snap into clarity. "Go. I shall support you."
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Post by Myridd on Nov 9, 2010 19:28:26 GMT -5
Boyd and Reginald flanked the Trollocs from either side, noting that there was a little under two dozen working to surround the camp. They had obviously been instructed in how to proceed as they were making their movements along with the rhythm of the Tinker’s music.
There was a swish of an axe as it flew threw the air, and a thud on the ground as a goat head rolled towards another Trolloc’s feet. Boyd’s face had been spattered with the goat head’s evil blood as he stood menacingly over his newest kill. This was one thing the Borderlander knew how to do. Killing Trollocs, slaying shadowspawn, it was what he was made to do. Something seemed different about this though, Trollocs this far into Cairhein, what had drawn them this far from the border?
This is ‘ot the time to be ‘asting time. Boyd chided himself as he bellowed loudly and charged another Trolloc, barely dodging several black blades as he did so.
The Borderlander sure is loud. Reginald smirked as he attacked from the otherside, slaying three Trollocs before their comrades knew he was there. Unfortunately, loud is nothing I’ve ever put effort into. . . He knit his brow in concentration, trying to think of how to be loud, like his sister had requested. Suddenly, he was flanked and the Trollocs charged from both sides. A swift jump backwards was all it took to dodge the ill-fated maneuver causing the Trollocs to clash with a deafening clang. Ah. That’ll do.
Inside the Tinker Camp, the noise of battle soon over clouded the pleasurable music, causing women to scream and the Tinkers to search for cover. Then the channeler entered the battle.
Captain Rehald Torvis of the Children of the Light once described fighting an Aes Sedai as being akin to facing a murder of flaming ravens while trying to wrestle a bear. Lancelle Paendrag walked into the battle unleashing ribbons and bolts of primal fire, each unerringly seeking a nearby Shadowspawn. As one of them broke free of the sudden, confusing melee to charge her, she raised her hand, channeling Fire and Air in a small pocket to create a dazzling light, sending the Trolloc careening into a wall and leaving it easy pickings for her Warder’s blade.
Galin managed to free himself from the first panic of the crowd, grabbing for Wren’s hand to make sure not to lose her. “Come on!” Safety. No. First find her, then safety. And burn me for a light-blinded fool not diving for cover immediately. “Stay close.” He knew Wren could defend herself as well as he could. Best we stay together, though. Nobody I’d rather have watching my back.
Wren nodded her assent, knowing why Galin had not immediately sought cover. He was searching for the dancer, therefore Wren would too. Her eyes searched the crowd, her height allowing her to look over the heads of most of the crowd. She was taken aback by what she saw, a man behind a Tinker’s toppled cart, his gray hand lashing out and grabbing the dancer girl about the wrist and pulling her into the shadows.
“Galin! There!” Wren shouted, tugging at her friend’s arm and leading him in the appropriate direction.
“Lancelle Sedai! Look there!” Reginald called over the crowd, pointing to where Galin and Wren were heading, noticing that the Trollocs seemed to be crowding around them. The Warder had only been able to slice down five Trollocs, as the others had instead headed towards the Borderlander or the fleeing two. Indeed, it looked as though reinforcements had been arriving while the battling took place.
Galin released Wren’s hand to draw two daggers, rushing toward where the girl had vanished. “Hands off her!”
Lancelle turned her eyes toward the gathering Trollocs, raising her hand. Are those two the target of this attack? “Lucan, to them!” She released another blast of flame, catching one of the circling Trollocs in the back before finding herself forced to turn her attention to one that was charging her.
The Warder did not have to be told twice, he used the wreckage of a burning cart to vault himself over the crowd of Trollocs, landing deftly behind Wren and Galin, his sword catching the black steel of a hyena-headed beast. He pushed the Trolloc back with a swift boot to the chest, causing it to stumble backwards and into flames.
The man clothed in gray glanced at Galin and Wren as they rounded the corner, his arm around the dancer’s neck, a sharp, thin knife at her throat. She was struggling, and it took her a moment before she noticed her would be rescuers.
“Ga-Gallen!! M. . My name is Beryl!” She shouted as tears flowed down her cheeks and she tried to escape her captor’s grip. “I’ll see you again! Gallen, I promise!” A moment later, the cart collapsed, blocking the path between Galin and Beryl, and than bursting into flames.
The collapse of the cart drew Lancelle’s attention, causing her to look their way just was Galin reached out as if to grab the hand that had just disappeared behind the rubble. The air around Wren and Galin grew thick, the flames coming off the cart burned more brightly becoming white hot before suddenly extinguishing and crumbling to ash, exposing the gray cloaked man with Beryl still in his grasp riding off on a fast horse.
Galin acted in desperation, flicking both his wrists, sending both knives sailing at the horse, his face showing a look of iron-willed despair as he sent the knives flying. Lancelle paused, eyes wide. Saidin. She unleashed more flame, searing Trollocs as she rushed to join her Warder near the two youths.
One of Galin’s knives landed squarely in the fleeing man’s shoulder, even though he already seemed to be well out of range. The battle died down, the remaining Trollocs mopped by my Aes Sedai flame and the swift blades of Boyd and Reginald. Neither the Borderlander nor the Warder seemed to be injured, though they were both covered in quite of blood.
Wren grabbed her friend’s hand as the kidnapper disappeared in the night. She pulled Galin into an embrace, whispering to him. “It’ll be okay. . We’ll find her.”
“Of course we will...” Galin hugged his friend tightly, and when he released her his face showed a grim determination. “There’s bound to be someone who’s seen him before.”
Lancelle finally let the Power flee her, and and found herself leaning against her brother for support. The Trollocs were after the boy who put the flames out. I may have found him. “Injured. How many are injured?”
“A half dozen, though two seem to be simple skinned knees.” Boyd remarked with a grim smile, joining up with Lancelle and Reginald. “ ‘one of them were struck by the Shadowspawn. Looks ‘ike we got lucky.” He looked at Lancelle and followed her gaze towards Galin and Wren. “Ho!” He waved to the two of them, than approached to see if they were all right.
Lancelle turned her eyes on Reginald. “I must rest. Bring the youths to me when you can, and in ten minutes start to bring the wounded. I will do what I can for them, but to do more than a little I need those ten minutes to rest.” She smiled to her brother, spared one more look for the youths, and turned to make her way back to the inn.
Galin retrieved the dagger that had missed the kidnapper from the ground before responding to Boyd. “We’re fine... I think.” Am I bleeding on my cheek? When did I cut my cheek? And why is there ash all over my jacket? I like this jacket! “I’m pretty sure we’re fine. Wren, are we fine?”
Wren was holding her head, looking weary and battle worn. “I. . . Y-yeah. . we’re fine.” Than suddenly she collapsed, falling heavily into Galin.
“Whoa!” Boyd exclaimed stepping up to help Galin support the sudden weight. Reginald than walked up to them, placing a hand on Galin’s shoulder.
“Bring her to the Inn. She’ll be the first one Lancelle Sedai sees. Boyd, bring the other wounded in ten minutes time.” The Borderlander nodded, looking solemn as the Warder headed towards the Inn.
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Post by Myridd on Nov 10, 2010 14:16:44 GMT -5
Back at the Horn and Dagger
Gareth Markose had given Lancelle a room to lay down in. He had than drawn the curtains, and lit a fire for warmth. He than quietly slipped out to let the Aes Sedai have some privacy. It only took a few moments before Reginald let himself in and sat at his sister’s side.
“Do you think its him?” He asked simply, stroking his sister’s hair.
“I hope so.” Lancelle let her eyes fall closed, resting and speaking softly. “His face carries an expression that tells me he will be difficult to handle, yet... if he is who we seek, we have found him before our enemies would have taken him. That is the most important thing... not only to our quest. It is the most important thing in the world.”
“And if we are wrong?” Reginald asked quietly. “Did you notice the Trollocs swarmed around our Borderlander friend as well? He certainly slayed more than his fair share.”
“We will have to take all three of them, then.” Lancelle took a deep breath, seeming to find her strength and sitting up straight. “That may be the only choice we have, and it may be for the best anyway. What remains is convincing them to go... even if we are wrong, even if our enemies are targeting them for another reason, they cannot stay here. Whatever He seeks, I must do whatever I can to deny Him.”
“Where would we take them?”
“I had planned to go to Tar Valon, but that may be too near. Perhaps we shall go south to Tear, and see if the Prophecies draw him, or perhaps we shall simply let the Pattern guide us.”
There was a knock at the door, than Boyd stepped into the room, guiding Galin who was supporting Wren. “I’ll be sittin’ myself just ‘utside, ‘lright?” Boyd said nervously as he slipped back outside.
“Come in.” Lancelle leaned forward, looking to Wren. “I can help with your exhaustion, if you will allow it.”
“No. . No I’m fine.” Wren shook her head. “But. . What is an Aes Sedai doing here? What business do you have in Cairhein? With a Borderlander no less!” Wren asked, straightening up to her full height, using her Cairhein will to fight against the exhaustion and let no evidence of how tired she is show.
Reginald stayed seated by his sister, a hand on the hilt of his sword as he watched in silence. She’s. . tall. Too tall, and too dark to be a Cairhein native. He looked Wren over before catching himself and feeling awfully ashamed. . . Focus.
“The business of Aes Sedai carries us everywhere. My name is Lancelle.” The Aes Sedai let a small smile cross her face. “You should be glad that mine carried me here. The Trollocs would have overwhelmed the camp without my party.”
Wren gave a characteristically Cairhein smirk. “I never said I wasn’t grateful. Just tell me, why are you interviewing us instead of trying to rescue the girl that was kidnapped?” Her arms were crossed, and she was in full Game mode. It was the only defense mechanism she knew, and always used it in stressful situations.
And there’s the hook. “I must remain long enough to Heal the wounded, which I shall begin to do once I am sufficiently rested to do it safely. Afterward... the Shadow may have been behind that abduction, and I will go in pursuit.”
“Let us join you!” Galin called out the words loudly before looking to Wren. “I mean... if you’re going to go after her... well, I want to help.”
Bout time you spoke up. I was worried I would have to do all the talking. Wren thought to herself as she nodded to Galin. “Of course. I couldn’t let her be harmed when we were so close to rescuing her. I only regret that I did not have my bow on me.” She sighed, showing a bit more of her true self, and letting the Cairhein facade fade. She had gotten the Aes Sedai to admit, even pledge to find the girl. Wren knew she and Galin could not of taken on the task by themselves and lived.
“My name is Wren Finnigan.” She held out her hand to Lancelle, glancing only once at the silent man by the Aes Sedai’s side whose eyes had not left her.
“Galin Markose.” Galin offered his hand to Lancelle after Lancelle shook Wren’s hand. Lancelle smiled, honestly relieved. “We will find the girl. Lucan, I am ready to start the Healing. Could you and Boyd begin bringing them in?”
Reginald stood, bowing slightly to Lancelle before making his way across the room. His gazed locked with Wren’s for a moment, and the exhausted girl felt her heart skip a beat as he smiled at her before turning away and leaving the room.
A moment later, Boyd and Reginald were helping a Tinker man hobble in, with some serious burns on his left calf.
Lancelle spoke softly to each patient as she saw to their injuries, Healing them as well as she could while conserving enough strength to ensure that she could fully recover any life-threatening injuries.
After the healing was done, Boyd excused himself and returned to the sight of the battle. Reginald had taken the time to explain to him about the missing girl, and the Borderlander set about finding a trail while Lancelle and the others talked.
“You did come with the lady, did you not?” The Illianer girl stepped from the ruins of one of the Tinker wagons. “The one who was throwin’ the fire at the beast-men?”
Boyd looked up from the ground, startled. He had not heard her since his mind was focused elsewhere. “ ‘hat of it?”
“‘Tis odd.” The girl stepped fully into view. She wore a simple dress of cotton and her hair was combed out, falling midway down her back. She folded her hands under her breasts, her eyes lingering on the Borderlander. “I did not feel... this... from her.”
The Borderlander immediately straightened his posture under the girl’s scrutinizing stare. “Ah. . ‘hat n-now?” He stuttered as he failed in fighting back his flushing cheeks.
“The draw.” The girl smiled, then curtsied to the Borderlander. “Isabeth Morales.”
He bowed somewhat awkwardly, suddenly aware of the dirt on his nose and the blood on his clothes. “Boyd McNair, ‘f the Borderlands.”
“It do be good to meet you, Boyd McNair.” The girl laughed suddenly, smiling widely. “What do you be lookin’ for?”
“Tracks.” He replied, happy to have an excuse to look away from the girl and back to the ground. “A ‘irl was kidnapped, during the Trolloc attack. Me and mine mean to find ‘er.”
“Tell me more.” The girl moved to help search. “Was the girl bein’ near the wagon that did burn?”
“ ‘rom what I’ve ‘een told. She ‘as right between the ‘agons, and they collapsed and burst in flames. By the time they were cleared, she was disappearin’ ‘ver the horizon.” He points in a general direction. “There!” He points at the ground, where the grass seemed normal to anyone but a tracker’s trained eye. “Its disturbed, blades headin’ in the opposite direction than the others.”
“Then they’d be goin’ out the South Gate, likely.” Isabeth shrugged. “Or ‘haps they do be goin’ to some hidden way out...”
“On horseback, ‘ut the man be injured. Better ‘round up the others.”
“Shall we be goin’ to the Lady, then? An’ to the rest of yours?”
Boyd nodded. “The Lady be an Aes Sedai. She’s got a ‘arder, and there ‘re two ‘thers that were the missin’ ‘irl’s friends.” He glanced at Isabeth, than away before making his way back to the Inn.
Isabeth walked next to the Borderlander, her hands folded behind her back and a small smile on her face. “Ah, The Horn and the Dagger.”
As they came to the Inn, they noticed Reginald standing outside, looking thoughtful while strumming his lute. He looked up as he heard their approach. “Ah, you’re back.” He says to Boyd as he glaces at Isabeth. “Who is this?”
“ ‘sabeth Morales. ‘sabeth, Lucan.” Boyd said, introducing the two, than quickly slipping inside.
Isabeth curtsied to Reginald as they passed him, and followed Boyd into the building.
Reginald followed them inside and followed them back to Lancelle’s room. He took his place by his sister’s side as Boyd explained what he found to the Aes Sedai.
“We will set out within the hour.” Lancelle looked to Galin and Wren. “If you intend to come along and have good-byes to say, you should do that now. I do not intend to leave anyone in the hands of the Shadow longer than I must.” She then looked to Boyd. “Gather what supplies you can. We may be on the road some time.” Next she spoke to Reginald. “Secure mounts if possible. We will have to be able to keep up with the abductor if we are to capture him.”
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Post by Myridd on Nov 10, 2010 15:27:40 GMT -5
The Horn and Dagger
After everyone had gathered, Reginald had procured horses while Boyd rustled up food and general supplies for a long journey, the Warder pulled the Aes Sedai to the side.
"I must speak with you, before we go. I found out something of interest." Reginald said with an easy smile on his lips but weariness in his eyes.
---
Elsewhere. . .
A cloud of dust rose after Captain Yancy had knocked a fellow captain to the ground after a spar.
"All right, you've won. I think that's enough." The other Captain said as he rose to his feet, dusting off his white cloak.
"No." Yancy said quietly, gripping the hilt of his sword so tightly that his knuckles turned white.
"You've done nothing but spar since your return. You're bound to be exhausted. That's enough training for to-" The other captain was cut off as Yancy charged him, pinning him against a wall.
"It will never be enough! I will never stop!" Yancy growled, staring hard at the other man with a certain madness in his gaze.
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Post by Trailfoot on Nov 10, 2010 16:24:17 GMT -5
“What is it, Lucan?” Lancelle stepped out of earshot of the others, her head close to her Warder’s to allow them to speak quietly.
“Its about the Foretelling you overheard. . About your mission? Do you remember anything more? Did it mention anything to do with three people?” Reginald replied, his voice serious.
“It mentioned the one we seek. There was no mention of others, but neither was there a statement that others would not be important. Why do you ask?”
“While I was procuring the horses, I had the pleasure of chatting with Isabeth. It seems as so she is drawn to important people. Three of said people happen to of been targets of a recent Trolloc attack.”
“Interesting... do you think this is a Talent? The girl has the spark.” Lancelle looked past her Warder toward the others.
“Has she? I am relieved. I was worried about taking an unarmed girl to rescue another. There is a good chance she is indeed Talented.” His eyes lock of Isabeth before travelling to Galin, Boyd, and finally Wren. “She mentioned she felt drawn to these three. . Stronger than anyone before.”
“Then we must make certain they are all protected... the girl, Isabeth, will have to go to the Tower for training. To do otherwise would be to abandon her to death. The others... until we know what the Pattern intends for them, they must be kept from the Shadow at all costs.”
“Yes. I am in agreement. After we rescue the girl, we head to the Tower?”
“Likely, unless the Pattern draws us elsewhere.” Lancelle glanced over the others again. “Which it may; the Pattern will pull them quite firmly.”
“Perhaps, before we do. . We could write to Aly and Pelleas? It has been far too long since we have heard from them, and they from us.” Reginald glanced at his sister, a sad smile on his face. “Their fourteenth birthday is coming.”
“I plan to compose a letter to them, and mail it at the first village we reach. Would you like me to mail one from you as well?”
The Warder pulled a sealed and signed envelope from beneath his leather doublet. “Though I was thinking of hiring a messenger to deliver it personally. . I fear that perhaps our letters have not been getting through. It is not like Pelleas to lag so long between letters.”
“I think that is a good idea. We should still wait until the next village, however... too many here saw me channeling. The messenger knowing he bears a letter from an Aes Sedai to the Royal Family... it could make my sacrifice worthless.”
“What is the messenger was a friend? Not someone who could be bribed?” Reginald asked.
“Do you have someone in mind, brother?”
“I would, but it seems as though we must keep all of our new friends close to us at this moment.” Reginald sighs. “It is a shame. I worry about them so.”
“I would like to see them.” Lancelle sighed, looking toward the others, seeing Galin pacing impatiently. “We need to go.”
“Of course.” The Warder nods in agreement, than spurs his horse to join the others. “Come!” He waves to them, than turns to Boyd. “Lead us.” The Borderlander nods and begins to lead them down the trail.
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Post by Trailfoot on Nov 10, 2010 17:41:50 GMT -5
Galin nudged Pips with his knee, moving closer to Wren as they rode. “We’re with a Warder and a Borderlander... they should be able to track, right?”
Wren chuckles slightly. “Of course. He wouldn’t be a Borderlander if he couldn’t track. I don’t think its a prerequisite to being a Warder though.” As she spoke, Wren glances over at Reginald, her eyes lingering a second before returning her gaze to Galin. “Still. . We are with an Aes Sedai. She has given us her word.”
“The truth an Aes Sedai tells is not always the truth you hear. Still, she was rather plain in her meaning... I believe she’ll help us find Beryl.” Galin glanced at the Warder as well. “Light, could that man’s sword be any fancier? But he moves like it’s part of him.”
“His sword?” Wren turns her eyes back to Reginald, a playful smile on her lips. “I can’t say I’ve noticed it til now.”
“Can’t say you’ve... Light, woman, a Warder?” Galin managed a playful smile on top of his worried expression, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Next you’ll be making eyes at an Aiel.”
“At least an Aiel would be taller than I, unlike the men I have met in Cairhein.” She returns Galin’s playful smile. “And what’s wrong with the Warder? He’s certainly a capable man. Besides, making eyes is innocent enough.”
“I suppose so.” Galin turned his eyes on Isabeth, and noticed her suddenly turning her head away from himself and Wren. “I wonder what’s with her...”
“Isabeth?” Wren tears her eyes away from the Warder and glances at the Illianer. “Perhaps she was making eyes at you, and did not want you to see?”
“She stares, you know.” Galin spoke softly. “At both of us, and at Boyd. Whenever she thinks no one is watching her.”
“Hmm.” Wren considers it a bit more seriously. “I have no idea than. Though, if you are alert enough you can sometimes catch the Aes Sedai glancing at us a bit more often than what is normal. Perhaps it is something about us than?” I did think it was rather odd, the Aes Sedai agreeing to help us so readily. What’s in it for her, I wonder?
“She’ll get something from us. Whatever it is... we can’t leave the girl in that man’s hands. Something wasn’t right about him, and not just the fact that he was going about abducting girls.”
“I wonder if he was working in concert with the Trollocs? Or if he used that attack to cover up the abduction? Which than draws to question, why her? Why Beryl? Certainly she is a pretty girl, but there were dozens of pretty girls at the Tinker camp.” Wren sighs, shaking her head. “And if he wasn’t working with the Trollocs, why did the Trollocs attack?”
“I haven’t a clue.” Galin turned his eyes back on the Aes Sedai. “What do you think? Is she trustworthy?”
“Hard to say. Aes Sedai are supposed to be unable to lie, but they are known to twist the truth.” Wren frowns. “I hope it was not a mistake, asking for their aide.”
“How else would we have found her?” Galin let the question hang in the air.
“We haven’t found her yet.” Wren reminded him.
He sighed and continued to ride in silence for a few minutes before responding. “We will.”
As if to be encouraging, Wren’s black horse Bella nudged Galin’s leg with her head. “I think Bella agrees with you. The Aes Sedai and Warder can’t be all bad, they did buy us horses after all.”
“True.” Galin managed a smile. “A bad Aes Sedai would make us ride donkeys.”
“Or made us walk. Can you imagine?” Wren made a displeased face, and than giggled. “Only time will tell if they are trustworthy. Curious though, I have no doubt the Borderlander is trustworthy, and he is the most menacing.”
“He does seem a good sort. I rather approve of him.”
“You approve of him?” Wren giggled again. “Since when do you dish out your approval? As if it is a rare thing?”
Galin smirked. “I always have. I just never told you.”
“OH?” Wren slugged her friend in the shoulder. “Does that mean I haven’t gotten you approval? After all those times I’ve saved your hide?”
“You’ve had my approval since the day we raided the bakery.” Galin managed a wide grin at the memory.
“It took that long did it?” Wren smiles as well, remembering the day they made off with dozens of cream puffs, eclairs, and jam tarts which they immediately ate and spent the next day in bed with stomach aches.
“It did.” Galin turned his eyes forward again. “I know we’ll find her. I hope we find her soon.”
Wren watched her friend silently for a few moments. “. . .Does she mean that much to you?” She asked quietly.
“I... don’t know. We only really talked for one night... but it was nice.” He turned his eyes on Wren. “I think she could? Whatever the answer, I can’t leave her in danger.”
Wren reached out and patted her friend’s back. “Of course not. Once we find the person that took her I’ll put an arrow through his eye.”
“I’m entirely in favor.” Galin smiled to his friend.
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Post by Trailfoot on Nov 10, 2010 19:50:47 GMT -5
As Boyd checked the ground for signs of passage, a soft hand rested on his shoulder. “Any luck?” Lancelle’s voice came from behind him.
The Borderlander suddenly stood up straight, caught off guard by the Aes Sedai’s approach. He turns to her, a slight flushing on his cheeks. “Ah. . Yessum. Tho’ the trail is weaker than I ‘ike. It ‘ould of ‘een better if the weather ‘ad been sour ‘efore the abduction. As it is, ‘orsehooves donna make ‘uch mark on hard ground. But, we’re ‘till on course.”
“As long as you can find the trail, all is well.” Lancelle glanced toward her brother before continuing. “Do you know how long ago they were here?”
“A few ‘ours ‘go. Expected, ‘ince that was ‘hen the attack ‘ook place. Hasn’t stopped.” Boyd sighed. “Thou, there be blood drops every now and again.”
“The boy Galin wounded him... put a dagger in his shoulder. If he does not stop at some point, he will bleed himself to unconsciousness.”
Boyd nodded, a grin on his face. “Than we ‘eed to keep our pace. He’s probablly ‘ware there be people on his ‘rail. If we keep the pressure, we ‘ight find him fainted.”
“I agree.” The Aes Sedai smiled. “You have a good head on your shoulders.”
“Nah. I’m just ‘tubborn.” He glanced away, obviously hiding his face from hers as he looked for more signs of a passerby.
“I disagree, but will not belabor the point.” Lancelle turned to return to her steed. “I am glad we found you.”
“Ah.” Boyd also returned to his mount. “You’re wrong, Lancelle Sedai. I believe it ‘as I whom did the finding?”
Lancelle laughed softly. “I suppose you are correct.”
“‘Course I am. ‘aited there ‘while for you. Spent most ‘ights thinkin’ you’d think I was crazy.”
“I spend my life touching the energy that drives the Wheel of Time. I know how strange the workings of the Pattern can be.”
“Still. . . I’m glad you ‘et me ‘ome.” Boyd looked down at his bulky hands that held the reigns of his stallion. “Thought I’d have a ‘ard ‘ime fittin’ in with a classy crowd.”
“You seem to do well enough with us.”
The Borderlander grinned. “So you’re sayin’ you’re classy?”
“I am an Aes Sedai.” Lancelle’s ageless face was parted with a small, knowing smirk.
“Ah, you ‘ere classy ‘efore your oaths. Donna deny it.” Boyd said while returning her smirk with a grin of his own. “I can ‘ell. You and ‘ucan both. Donna worry, I won’t tell the ‘thers what I know. Where you be from, that is.” He winks. “I can keep a secret, long as its not one o’ mine.”
“I hope you can.” Lancelle mounted her horse, watching Boyd.
“You know I can. Or you ‘ouldn’t be trustin’ me.” He said a matter of factly as he mounted his own horse, adjusting the position of his large battle axe. “And your Warder be trustin’ me too. Leavin’ me ‘lone with you this long.”
“I have my eyes on you.” Lancelle started to ride, gesturing for the group to start moving again. “In general, someone an Aes Sedai is aware of is no threat to her.”
“Ahh.. O’ course. ‘ever suggested I was. Thou, without the clarification. .” Boyd smiled softly, running a hand through his hair as he avoids Lancelle’s eyes. “One ‘ight a taken that as flattery.”
“Perhaps one might. Perhaps one should.” Lancelle focused her attention ahead.
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Post by Myridd on Nov 10, 2010 22:07:22 GMT -5
On the trail. . .
It was early the next morning when the search came to furition. Found bound to a tree, his shoulder bound and dressed with fresh linen, was the man they had been searching for. His horse stood near by, grazing idly on some fresh grass. There was a tent pitched nearby, of a crisp green fabric. There was also a fire pit dug that had been recently put out.
Reginald rode up to the tree where the man had been bound, and hopped off his horse. After checking to make sure the man was still alive, he turned to the others. "He's alive. Though he seemed to be unnaturally put to sleep. Drugged, a weave." He glanced at Galin, than Wren. "You two check the tent."
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Camelyn
"Alymere!" The strict voice of Alymere's nursemaid as she searched the halls for the Daughter-heir.
Hiding behind a Illian vase, Alymere watched as her nursemaid rounded the wrong corner. Smiling slightly through a sleep deprived fog. She hurried down the hall, opposite direction than her nursemaid.
I knew she would be mad when she found me out of bed at this early hour. But I can't stand idly by. . no. . My mother didn't believe me. Her advisors laughed it off. . I can't leave. I can't get help. . She held a piece of parchment to her breast as she turned another corner, ducking out of sight as a guard came down the hall doing his rounds. Alymere had to fight to keep her rapid breath from being heard. If I can just get this out, get it to him. . He won't let me down.Peeking out from her hiding spot, deciding it was safe, Alymere ran down the hall again, holding the hem of her sleeping gown so as not to trip.
She reached the door she sought just as another guard stepped into the hallway. She knocked softly, hissing through the door while trying to make herself blend into the shadow.
"Pelleas!"
The guard was drawing closer, his footsteps becoming louder.
"Pelleas!" She whispered louder with more urgency.
"Who's there?" The guard called out, quickening his steps.
The heavy oak door opened, Alymere slipped inside and as the guard approached Pelleas greeted him sleepily. "Sorry. . I just snuck back from the kitchen." The thirteen year old smiled sheepishly.
The guard cracked a smile, nodding. "Those jam tarts from dinner?" he inquired.
"Nah, the sweetmeats." Pelleas replied, rubbing his eyes.
"All right. Well get back to bed. The Queen will be wanting to talk to you and your sister pretty early." The guard waved goodbye as he walked away. Pelleas slipped the door closed, and turned to his sister, his eyes searching for an explanation.
"Pelleas. . You need to find Lancelle. . You need to find our brother and sister!" Alymere pleaded as she grabbed the front of her brother's dressing gown.
"Aly. . what's going on?" Pelleas was startled by the panic he saw in her eyes.
"Just. . trust me. Find them. Take this." She shoved the parchment into his hands. "Tell them. . tell them to come home. " Tears welled in her vivid blue eyes. "And remember, always remember that day by the river. . when we were six."
Pelleas opened his mouth to protest, to tell his sister than he is her First Prince, he should not leave her side, but she had never looked at him with such determination. With such fire. She looks so much like Lany, like Mother. . . Instead he just nodded, tucking the parchment into his fist.
Alymere al'Mar brushed her lips against her brother's cheek in parting, than disappeared through his door again.
It took Pelleas less than ten minutes to change into some of his less grand riding clothes, pack a bag, than saddle his horse.
Hours later a howl went through the castle when Queen Meliota was told of the disappearance of her son.
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Post by Myridd on Nov 11, 2010 0:13:37 GMT -5
“A... all right, Lucan.” Galin wanted to be there when the man was questioned, but he heeded the Warder’s words and made his way into the tent.
Wren followed him, glancing back at the man tied to the tree. She reached out and grabbed Galin’s shoulder. “Be careful.” She warned softly.
Galin nodded, gesturing to show that his right hand was on his remaining dagger, ready to draw it if need be.
“I’ll cover you.” Wren readied an arrow, keeping her eyes sharp.
As Galin lifted the tent flap he was greeted with a warm “Good morn” from an older man obviously awoken by the noise of the horses. The man had a short graying beard, toffee colored hair and inquisitive green eyes. He grinned at Galin, motioning with his hand to the dagger the Innkeeper’s son had almost drawn. “Put that away boy. I’m unarmed. Heck, I’m pantsless too!” He chuckled and motioned to the thick blankets covering his lower half. “Guessin’ you’re looking for Beryl?”
“Um... yes?” Galin pushed the dagger back into his belt, his eyes on the older man warily. “You know where she is?”
“Yup. On the way to Tar Valon. Ran into her and a group of Red Ajah. Help me up.” The man offered Galin his hand, making sure to secure a blanket around his midsection with the other.
Galin took the man’s hand, helping him to his feet. Red Ajah? Aes Sedai? “What did the Aes Sedai want with her? And who’s the man you have tied up outside?”
“Beryl mentioned somethin’ about being friendly with a Gray Ajah, guessin’ that be your friend out there? Asked for sanctuary she did. Turns out that man be a male channeler. The Reds were doin’ there thing to him as I came up.” The man replied as he looked around for his clothing. “Asked me to wait here for her friends. To tell them where she was headin. Name’s Flynn. Oscar Flynn.”
“Galin Markose.” Galin looked to Wren, then back to the man. “Tar Valon... I guess that’s where we’re heading next, then. If you’re okay with that, Wren...”
“Of course.” Wren nodded.
“ ‘Cuse me. Don’t mean to interrupt your talking to that pretty lady, but can you hand me those breeches? And the gray doublet? We should talk with the Aes Sedai over breakfast. I’ve got sausage.”
Galin bent over to grab the pants, and passed them to the man. “I don’t know if we have time for... light curse me, I don’t think we can skip food. My bloody stomach’s growling like a Trolloc.”
The man ducked underneath his blanket once more, and came out fully dressed, but still looking groggy. “No need to rush now, boy. She ain’t in no danger.” He than held the flap of his tent open for Wren and Galin to exit, than rummaged around a bit for the food he promised before stepping out himself and waving to the others.
Wren looked mildly amused by the man as she exchanged glances with Galin.
Lancelle looked up as the three left the tent from her Delving of the man tied to the tree. “Who is our host? Or is he a prisoner?”
“A prisoner only to the beauty I see before me!” Flynn swept forward, grasping Lancelle’s hand and kissing its back. “A graceful Aes Sedai, gray does suit you, Mi’ Lady.” He than looked towards Isabeth, stepping towards her as well, grasping her by the shoulders and planting a kiss on each cheek. “An Illianer, such dignity. . and those eyes!” Lastly he rounded to Wren, who took a step back startled. “A lass from the Two-Rivers! Tall, graceful as a gazelle.”
“I’m not from Two Rivers.” Wren immediately responded, a dark brow raised.
“No? Now, are you sure?” He inquired, not quite believing her. “Your height, posture, ease with that long bow. . certainly. . ?”
Wren shook her head. “Quite sure.”
“No matter!” He turned back to Lancelle. “I am Oscar Flynn, traveller extraodinaire!”
“Lancelle.” The Aes Sedai gazed at the traveller with curiosity in her eyes. “And where are you bound for, Oscar Flynn?”
“Tear, by way of Cairhein. I’ve got some family who haven’t seen me in quite awhile.” He replied, kneeling down to start the fire again, than taking the sausage out of the package. “Where did I put that pan. . .”
“Here. ‘se this.” Boyd suggested, offering the man a wrought-iron pan from their travel supplies.
Flynn looked up, than smiled broadly. “A Borderlander! My, what a mish mash of people Beryl has looking for her.” He took the pan, and began to fry some sausage.”
Galin spoke up. “Oscar... do you know Beryl? You speak of her in a familiar way.” Isabeth made her way over to help Oscar prepare the food.
“Course I know her. I helped raise the lass. Rather, I am what could be considered a godfather to her? Haven’t seen her in few years. Since I left the Tinker caravan.” Flynn replied, a twinkle in his eyes as he spoke of his goddaughter.
Reginald leaned over to Lancelle, whispering to her. “We do attract quite a bunch, don’t we?” He chuckled lightly.
“It seems so.” The Aes Sedai gave the Warder an amused smile as Galin started to ask Oscar questions about Beryl. She then looked to Wren. “Did Master Flynn tell you anything of interest?”
Wren stepped over to Lancelle and Reginald. “Yes, actually. . The man. .”She gestured to the man still tied to the tree. “was a male channeler. He ran afoul of some Red Ajah as he was making his escape from us. The girl, Beryl, asked them for Sanctuary, saying she was a friend of a gray ajah. So they took her to Tar Valon.”
A member of the Grey Ajah? Could she have been referring to me? That would indicate she knew my Ajah... though I suppose she could have simply guessed that my shawl corresponded to it. “I suppose that decides our next destination, then.”
“We would go that far to find the girl?” Reginald asked, not disagreeing just questioning. “I presume she is safe with your sisters.” I know Tar Valon is the best place for them. Still. . . I can’t help but wonder if I am wrong.
“Isabeth needs to reach Tar Valon anyway. We will have to decide what to do after she is entered into the Novice Book after that is done, but she needs to be trained, and the road is a poor place for that. I do not wish to lose a promising wilder to difficulties in training while travelling.”
“Wait. .Isabeth is a wilder?” Wren asked, a brow raised. “Did you ask her if she wants to go? Do people even get a choice?” Her voice was raised, sounding quite upset.
“In her case, no, there was no choice.” The Aes Sedai kept her eyes on Wren. “There are those who can choose to learn to channel - who have the ability inborn, but will never do so without training. Others have what is called the spark - they will channel whether they try to learn or not. Three of four of those who with the spark die if not trained, of an illness caused by drawing on the True Source improperly. I did, however, tell the girl this, and she agreed that it would be best to enter the Tower.”
Wren crossed her arms, still frowning. “Oh? And when were you going to tell the rest of us? Were you assuming we would accompany you to Tar Valon as well, or were you just going to ship us on our way the moment we rescued Beryl?” Why am I this angry? Why do I feel like I’ve been manipulated?
Reginald stood by, quietly watching the exchange.
“You are, of course, free to go on your way whenever you wish. If my presumption that you would want to travel with your friend until he located the girl he is seeking was incorrect, I apologize.” The Aes Sedai’s eyes showed no sign of insult at Wren’s anger, her ageless face unreadable. “However, I do think that anyone who has the opportunity should see the Tower at least once in their lives. Even after growing up within sight of the Royal Palace of Caemlyn, it stole my breath the first time I saw it.”
“So you did grow up in Andor!” Flynn called from the fire, breaking the tension with his jovial tones. “The sausages are done! And no more harsh words. Its early, the sun don’t even be up.”
Isabeth grinned, taking food for herself then making a plate for Boyd and one for Wren. When she handed Wren her food, she smiled. “Perk up! It do be a beautiful morning, and we do know the one we seek is safe.”
Galin sat next to Wren, reaching for food for himself before casting a glance at the unconscious man by the tree. “What are we going to do with him?”
“We need to talk to him. Figure out why he was after the girl.” Reginald answered, than taking a bite of sausage. “Too bad I have no idea how long he’ll be sleeping.”
Boyd sat on the other side of Lancelle, eating his food more delicately than one might of guessed he would, but still eating a lot of it. Flynn sat next to Isabeth, and started talking about a trip he made through Illian in his youth.
“I plan to bring him to Tar Valon.” Lancelle raised a hand to quiet any complaints. “Channelers are the responsibility of the White Tower, even male channelers. His ability to wield the Power has been removed, but my sisters neglected to remember that he is still guilty of abduction. For that, he must stand trial.”
When Flynn was done with his story - a story Isabeth applauded - Galin spoke to him. “Did the man happen to have a dagger with him? He had my dagger when I saw him last.”
“Yeah, He had it in his shoulder.” Wren chuckled, her mood lightening now that she had good.
“Dagger? Ah!” Flynn suddenly stood up and headed back to his tent. A few moments later he returned and handed Galin an ivory bladed curved dagger in a black ivory sheath. “Beryl took the dagger from the guy’s shoulder, kept it close to her. Asked me to give ya this in its place.”
Lancelle’s eyebrow raised as Flynn passed Galin the dagger. An angreal. Where did the girl get such a thing... and did she know what it was? She didn’t move from where she sat, however. Galin took the weapon, slipping the sheath into his belt. “I’ll have to be careful not to lose this one.”
Isabeth smiled to Wren. “It would be an embarassment to lose a gift from his lady-love in the shoulder of another villain, would it not be?”
Wren giggled. “Oh indeed. How gallant!” She teased Galin, smiling slightly.
“Be quiet.” Galin’s voice was light, and a playful smile crossed his face. “Both of you.” Isabeth burst out laughing.
Even Boyd had to suppress a chuckle and the conversation had nothing to do with him, but he did understand how the lad was feeling.
“It takes a real gentleman to treat a lady’s gift with such care.” Reginald remarked, hiding his mirth, but just barely.
“... I actually can’t tell if you’re mocking me or not, Lord Lucan.” Galin grinned at the Warder.
“He do be mocking you.” Isabeth just managed to beat Lancelle to the last sausage.
“Mock? Do you truly think I would stoop so low?” Reginald asked, obviously mocking.
Lancelle glared at the empty pan. “Of course you would, gaidin.” She finished the small bit of food left on her plate. “Master Flynn, I thank you for your hospitality.”
“If you say it, Lancelle Sedai, it must be so.” Reginald finally chuckled.
Flynn nodded to Lancelle, bringing himself to his feet. “I suggest ya’ll find some shelter, sleep a bit before headin’ to Tar Valon. Feels like a storms a comin’”
Lancelle looked up toward the sky. I should have studied weather prediction more closely. “Do you have any suggestions of good places to find shelter?”
“There is a windmill, just down that a ways. In relatively good shape, though been abandoned for a bit. Smells faintly o’ fish.” Flynn smiled, helping Isabeth to her feet than kissing her hand.
“That sounds quite helpful. Thank you again, Master Flynn.” The Aes Sedai rose again, and Isabeth smiled to Flynn. “Thank you. I hope to meet you again.”
“I’m sure the Pattern will draw us together once more.” Flynn replied in parting as he began to pick up his campsite. Reginald moved to untie the gentled man than to secure him on his horse.
“We should move out, if we want to get to shelter before the rain hits.” Reginald suggests, mounting his steed, waiting for the others to do so.
Galin helped Wren onto her horse before mounting Pips. “Ready to go.”
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Post by Myridd on Nov 13, 2010 22:09:18 GMT -5
Windmill
A few lengths north, just as Oscar Flynn had said, the group found a crusty old windmill. It was still mostly in tact, but the windmill’s blades have obviously not spun in quite some time. The structure was made of stone, its south side covered in moss. A worn wooded door gave entrance to a damp room, which did smell faintly of fish. A rickety staircase lead to the windmill’s upperfloor. Other than the windmill’s inner workings, the structure was empty.
Lancelle ducked into the low door, her hands moving to wring her hair out as she quickly stepped out of the way to let the others in. She managed to maintain her dignity in spite of being soaked to the bone. “Everyone inside.”
Galin did not maintain his dignity quite so well as the Aes Sedai. The Cairheinin man’s good coat was dropping, as was his short hair. He grumbled as he flopped down against a spare millstone. “I don’t know if I’ll ever be dry...”
“Light knows I won’t be. .” Wren says pathetically, wringing out her hair as well, than slipping out of her leather jacket and letting it drop like a stone to the floor. She flopped on the ground, working off her boots, a sad look in her eyes. “These were my favorite boots. .” She whined.
“Ah, well. Looks like I did not need that bath after all.” Reginald said humorously, stepping into the windmill, soaked to the bone but appearing as though it didn’t bother him. “I say we get out of these wet things, and see if anything in our packs survived the deluge.” He glanced at Lancelle, offering her a smile. “For sake of properness, I say the men follow me upstairs to change. Coming down only when the ladies give their word?”
Boyd came in after Isabeth, closing the door soundly after him. “Sounds ‘ood to me. Donna want no one to get sick.”
“That do be agreeable.” Isabeth looked around the room. “I suppose there do be no chance for a fire.”
“None whatever. There is no chimney.” Lancelle nudged Galin with her toe until he rose to his feet and started toward the stairs.
Boyd handed Lancelle his pack before heading upstairs. “There be some small ale, mighta go aways to ‘arm you up ‘ince there be no chance for a ‘ire.”
Reginald hid a small smile as he followed suit, than kicking off his boots the moments he was upstairs.
Downstairs...
After watching Reginald disappear upstairs, Wren immediately began to pull off her wet clothing, exposing her athletic, graceful form underneath. Than, dressed only in her small clothes, she began to dig around in her pack, looking for other things to wear.
Lancelle channelled Fire and Air to dry her hair, then reached out to touch Isabeth’s hand. “That is a delicate thing... you will light your hair afire.” The Aes Sedai opened her pack, then frowned softly. “My pack leaked.”
“You want a fancy blue gown?” Wren frowned as well, tossing Lancelle her pack. “Everything I brought is dry. . . But I grabbed the wrong bag when we left. Nothing but courtier gowns, corsets and slippers.” The tall woman pinned up her hazelnut colored hair onto the top of her head, than squeezed herself into a elegantly cut garnet colored gown. “Heh. I hate this gown.”
“I will have to dry our travelling clothes before we leave.” Lancelle started to put on the gown as Isabeth pulled a pair of clean breeches from her own pack. When the Aes Sedai regarded her, Isabeth shrugged. “I was packed for a journey before we left.”
Wren glanced over at Isabeth, and glared. “I must hate you now.” She chuckled lightly. “I’m all dressed for the ball in a broken down mill. What will the boys say?”
“If you do be fortunate, they will ask you to dance. If you do not be, they will not.” Lancelle blinked, unsure of whether the Illianer was joking.
Wren blinked at the Illianer as well, and exchanged a confused glance with Lancelle before giggling, a slight blush on her cheeks. “You know, I think she’s right. A lady could do a lot worse than those three.”
Isabeth lowered her voice to ensure that the men wouldn’t hear her before speaking again. “And do you have your eyes on any of them in particular?”
“Wh-what? No! O-of course not!” Wren’s face turned the color of her gown, before lowering her voice as well. “Why, do you?”
Isabeth grinned broadly and nodded. “Yes. Yes I do, in fact.”
“Who!?” Wren exclaimed, clapping her hands over her mouth after yelling.
Isabeth lowered her voice, speaking too quietly to be heard at the distance where Lancelle and Wren were, drawing them closer.
As she was drawn in, Wren exchanged another glance with Lancelle. “Repeat that. We couldn’t here you.” She pleaded quietly.
Isabeth smiled widely, speaking at a whisper. “Boyd do be a strong and solid sort, whose merit as a man is a draw. Lucan do be a loyal man, who would make a fine husband for any woman who could accept his divided attentions - and worth accepting that from. Galin does have the nicest smile I have seen on a boy in any city or village. Wren does have a confidence that draws attention to her.” The Illianer smirked. “I do have my eyes on more than one, but of course with only days of acquaintance I have not chosen one to pursue, or chosen whether to choose one at all.”
Wren stepped back, chuckling and shaking her head. “Than why get us all worked up?” She had noticed she was one of the people Isabeth had mentioned, but had decided not to make too much of it. “What of you, Lancelle? Any of them you have eyes for?” Wren teased.
“Aes Sedai rarely...”
Isabeth interrupted. “Marry. Yes. But that do not be the question Wren asked.”
“You are direct, aren’t you?” The Aes Sedai regarded Isabeth with an amused smile. “I will answer if you do so, Wren, and do so directly.”
“I. . .” Wren started, thinking for a moment. “No. I can’t honestly say that I do. Granted, Lucan is rather attractive, being the only man here taller than me.” She smiled slightly, looking away. “Just like Isabeth said. Its too early to tell.”
“Lucan is my brother. The other two are attractive and seem loyal; however, I have no pressing desire to pursue either of them.”
“Bah. Then we did learn nothing.” Isabeth shrugged, pulling some dried meat from her pack. “I doubt there will be game tonight, and even if there were we could not cook it.”
“We just had breakfast. Are you hungry already? I thought we were here to sleep after riding hard all night.” Wren commented, yawning.
“I always sleep better if I eat something first.” Isabeth started to eat the meat, settling against the wall of the mill.
“Should we call the guys down, than? Or leave them upstairs?” Wren asked, settling against another wall of the mill, using her pack as a pillow.
“I am comfortable with them returning, if the two of you are.” Lancelle found herself a place to rest on the floor.
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Upstairs
Reginald set his pack down, and stripped off his linen shirt. He than kicked off his boots, hanging them on some of the windmill’s inner mechanics to dry. “I hope they are dry by the time we have to leave. Though, with the soaking they received its likely they’ll be a few sizes too small.” As he hung up his shirt as well, he glanced at Galin. “Hey. How big are your feet?”
Galin hung his shirt, looking down to his feet. “Ten inches. Why do you ask?” He delved into his pack for a change of clothes.
“Mine are a bit bigger than yours. My boots are going to shrink. You want them?” Reginald asked, fishing out a shirt of his own. An emerald green one with gold embroidery. “A bit fancy for sleep wear, but it will do.” The Warder than shook out his golden locks, frowning slightly. “Miserable weather.” He muttered.
Boyd just glanced at the other two as they conversed, hanging up his shirt, vest, and boots as well. The Borderlander wasn’t concerned about his boots shrinking. They were the only pair he owned, but they have been through everything. Though he had to admit they weren’t nearly as nice looking as the Warder’s boots. Or as nicely cut as the Cairhein’s boots. However. . Boyd had made sure to pack extra clothing, and none of the fancy stuff. Soon he was clad in an outfit, sans the shoes, almost identical to what he had worn during the storm.
“My da used to say that a wise man never turns down a dance from a lady or a good pair of boots. Of course I’ll take them; thank you.” Galin pulled his belt back into place, sliding both daggers into it before looking to Boyd. “I know how the rest of us got mixed up in this, except that Illianer girl, but what about you? How’d you find yourself travelling with Lancelle Sedai?”
As Reginald pondered what he would now do about footwear, Boyd glanced up at Galin as he was repacking his bag. “Oh? Ah. .” The Borderlander glanced over at Reginald, who was paying him no mind. “Its a bit silly, ‘ctually. Was sittin’ outside Cairhein and I ran afoul some fancy White Cloaks. They dinna like me none, and Lancelle Sedai and Lucan there came to my rescue.”
“Wha? Someone speaking to me?” Reginald looked up suddenly as his name was mentioned. After glancing back and forth from Boyd to Galin, realizing that neither were talking to him, he went back to inspecting his pack.
“I’ve heard say that Whitecloaks don’t like much of anyone, so you likely shouldn’t take that personally.” Galin laughed good-naturedly at Lucan’s question. “I suppose this journey’s almost done... once we reach Tar Valon and find Beryl safe. At least for Wren and I. I suppose a Warder’s journey is never done.”
“Hm? Am I on a journey? I wasn’t aware.” Reginald smiled slightly, finally seeming pleased with how he had packed. “You’ll be surprised by how the Pattern takes you. You might believe your journey is almost at an end. . .” His words trail off and he shrugs.
“You just gonna go back to Cairhein than? Just gonna ‘ave a taste o’ the world, that ‘ead back ‘ome?” Boyd asked as he began to pace.
“I’m not sure,” Galin admitted. “I guess it will depend on what Wren wants to do. And... light, I started this trip to find Beryl, and I don’t really know what I’m going to do once I’ve found her.”
“You speak of Wren as though the two of you are joined at the hip.” Reginald interjects. “Are you sure the two of you aren’t bonded?”
“We’re friends, man.” Galin smiled lightly. “She joined this trip to help me; if she needs help I want to be there to give it.”
“Are you. . . just friends?” Reginald prods. “You are pretty gung-ho about rescuing this girl you barely know. Have you truly never noticed the beauty that’s been there the whole time?”
“Give ‘im a break, Lucan. Galin be a smart ‘an. If there was somethin’ there ‘sides friendship, surely he ‘ould of done something about it.” Boyd chastised the Warder.
“I’m sure, Lucan. If there’d been more of that, I’d have noticed by now.” Galin laughed softly. “You sound like my ma, by the way. She asks that question at least monthly.”
“Your mother just probably wants grandchildren.” Reginald smiles, suddenly looking throughful as he steps towards the stairs. “Why does it take women so long to change?”
“More ‘ayers.” Boyd said simply, having choose a spot to sit and lean against the wall and polish his axe.
“You could go down and ask them. I’m sure they’d appreciate your curiosity.” Pulling a whetstone from his bag, Galin started to sharpen his dagger.
“Heh. Appreciate my curiosity. Lancelle Sedai would show it by throwing me on my horse.” Reginald chuckled slightly, still looking down the stairs with interest.
“Like she did to Yancy Pants?” Boyd chuckled.
“Exactly like that. Now Isabeth. . would probably answer honestly. Wren might try to break my fingers.” Reginald looks down at his hands with sad eyes, as though imagining losing function in his fingers.
“Maybe so. Though I’ve never seen her break someone’s fingers...” Galin shrugged. “Boyd, what do you plan to do once we reach Tar Valon?”
“Whatever be needed of me.” The Borderlander answers simply.
“Good answer.” Galin shrugged. “I guess I’ll figure out my path from there once we get there.”
“If not before.” Reginald replies. “. . . Grawr. I’m tired of waiting.” The Warder grumbles, than begins to head down the stairs.
Downstairs, footsteps can be heard coming down the stairs. Wren looks towards the staircase, than Lancelle. “We haven’t called for them yet, have we?” She asks as she frantically looks for something to cover up her gown with.
“I do not believe we have.” Lancelle turned her gaze toward the stairs before Isabeth bounded past the two of them, toward the stairs and up them.
Reginald halted his advance as Isabeth came into view and almost straight into him. “Ah, dear Isabeth. All dressed than?”
“You do be sleeping upstairs.” Isabeth smiled widely. “We will see you after the storm does be done.”
The Warder tilted his head, looking slightly amused. “You don’t seem to know how this being a Warder thing works. I’m not sleeping upstairs.” He went to step around her.
“You do be digging your own grave, then.” Isabeth shrugged, standing aside to let the Warder pass.
“Donna worry! If Lucan loses function in his limbs, We’ll drag his arse ‘ack upstairs.” The Borderlander called from upstairs as Reginald continues down the stairs.
“Lancelle Sedai?” Reginald asks as he steps off of the final stair to find Lancelle just as Wren manages to disappear underneath an old blanket. “Surely you are not serious about making us stay upstairs? Its drafty, and unsafe.”
Lancelle sat in her gown, and gave Reginald her very best aloof gaze as he came into sight. “If you wish to sleep down here, you may, of course. You will invite the others as well?”
A smile crossed Reginald’s lips as he glanced at the blanket Wren was hiding under, than back at his sister. “I believe I might just keep this beautiful company to myself.” The Warder made his way across the room, settling himself next to Wren, who peeked out from under her blanket. “Why, hello.” He gave her his most charming smile.
“Lancelle, your brother? He’s annoying.” Wren called, closing the blanket over her head again.
“Brothers have that habit.” Lancelle settled down once again, closing her eyes this time.
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Post by Myridd on Nov 14, 2010 12:38:29 GMT -5
Countryside of Andor
Three days since fleeing Camelyn
The darkness of the night began to set, Pelleas drew his horse into a small clearing a ways off the main road, than hopped off and led his horse to a small stream inorder for it to get a drink.
"There, there. Rest up, Delg." The blonde First Prince said as his pumpkin colored stallion began to drink. The two had been riding almost nonstop for the last two days, barely managing to dodge some of the Andor patrols.
By now Pelleas had read the letter his sister had handed to him in such distress. They are going to replace her. Someone is plotting against Andor. He fell to his knees, splashing some water from the river onto his face. The sun was set now, Pelleas' stomach grumbled. I haven't eaten since the day before yesterday. I miss the fine foods of court. Though hungry, he was still determined.
. . . There is meat. . . A primal voice came to him, causing Pelleas to sit up suddenly and look around as if looking for the cause of the voice. Finding no one there but his horse, who looked at him as though he had lost his mind, Pelleas decided he must of been hearing things.
. . . . . There is blood. Wounded prey. An easy kill. . . .
Hearing the voice again, sure this time it was resonating within his brain, Pelleas shut his eyes tight, throwing his hands over his ears. No, no, no! I don't want to hear this. I'm going crazy. Its just the hunger. . . I'm just hungry. He tried to tell himself, almost convincing himself until he caught scent of something.
Blood. He knew immediately, though he had never smelled something this clear before. The boy was training to be the First Prince. He had trained, sparred, made others bleed if only by accident. He also would go hunting, shoot down ducks and deer.
Suddenly, Pelleas was on his feet, trudging through the woods towards the scent. What if someone is hurt? He tried to convince himself that was why he was heading towards the scent of blood. Not his overwhelming hunger. Delg neighed in protest as his rider disappeared into the woods, leaving him alone by the stream.
Soon, he came to a deer. A doe, with a wound in the side of her neck as if she had been attacked but the attacker had run off. She was lying there, suffering, barely alive and unable to move save to turn her brown eyes on Pelleas as if to beg him to end her suffering.
A flick of his wrist, arming himself with one of his faithful blades, and without a second thought he ended the deer's suffering, than collapsed to his knees and cried. In all of his thirteen years, it was the first time he had killed something that was so innocent. Even when hunting, he choose targets that could flee, evade, fightback. But this doe was harmless, almost dead. He did it for her as much as for himself, though he couldn't help but hurt in his heart as he got the doe's blood on his hands as he stood and dragged her back to his horse.
. . . It is the way, Youngling. Its flesh will keep you strong.
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Camelyn
Queen Meliota sat alone in her chambers. It was too late for her to do anything, she should of caught on to betrayal earlier. Her mind was just not as focused as it used to be since the lose of her eldest children.
She was confined to chambers, the story given to the masses was that she went mad after the disappearance of yet another child. In truth, her betrayers certainly believed she was mad. This was exactly how Meliota wanted it.
The Queen, now disgraced, spent her time plotting. Hoping that her son would indeed make it to the Tower. Bring back help for Andor, and save Alymere. What kind of mother have I been? Putting my children last. This is my punishment. This is what I deserve. She would tell herself, before arguing I am still well and able. I can still fight. I will find a way to bring my children back together.
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Post by Myridd on Nov 14, 2010 12:59:55 GMT -5
On the road towards the Tar Valon
A few days after leaving the Windmill
While the others were setting up camp, Wren grabbed her longbow and went to hunt. The food was running low, and the Borderlander had noticed tracks nearby. Hunting would give Wren practice she needed, plus time alone to consider things.
There was only one thing she had not expected. The insistance that Lucan join her, from Lucan himself.
"I've never been much of a bowman." The Warder confessed as the two of them crouched in the woods looking for prey.
". . . Shush. You'll scare away the prey." Wren chastised him, hiding a pleased little smile. Why would he come hunting, if he did not know how to use a bow? Surely he wasn't planning on beheading a deer with that sword of his? Wren suddenly giggled, picturing Lucan rushing out to attack a rather startled deer.
"Now who is going to scare away the prey?" Reginald responded, smiling to himself. She has a wonderous laugh. He shook his head lightly, than caught a flash of movement to the side. "There." He pointed, as a pair of ducks took flight.
A moment later Wren was on her feet and had let loose two arrows bringing down both birds.
Reginald applauded as Wren gathered her prey. "You wield that bow well. I know many a man that would be jealous of your talents. Certainly you didn't develop such skills in Cairhein?"
Wren smiled slightly. "In a way I did. Something I used to rebel, I guess. I was so different than the other children. Being tall and tan."
"Both good qualities." Reginald smiled.
"Shush. I'm not finished." Wren chided again, her eyes lighting up with amusement. "Being as tall and tan as I was, still am, it made me quite a sight to see at court. Archery gave me the confidence I needed to stand tall. To know I have a worth other than what those silly people think of me."
Reginald nodded quietly as they returned to camp. You have more worth than hunting, as well. Just how do I show you?
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Post by Myridd on Nov 14, 2010 13:00:24 GMT -5
The setting sun cast the shadow of Dragonmount over the River Erinin, leaving only the White Tower rising above the shade. Ogier-worked marble marked the walls of Tar Valon, and the great stone bridges that spanned the Erinin bustled with people trying to make it into or out of the city before the gates closed for the night. While Camelyn and Tear had more people than Tar Valon, neither packed so many into so small a place.
The Tower, of course, overshadowed all else apart from the great mountain that now lie behind the travellers. Unblemished alabaster rose from the southern tip of the island, far above the walls, taller than any palace in the West, showing all who came within sight where the true seat of power lie. Other buildings could also be seen beyond the Unbroken Walls, their roofs in slate or granite tile honed perfectly by the Ogier who had built the city nearly a thousand years before, standing before time as the city had against all other forces that had tried to assault it.
The group walked up to the gate, where they were halted by two guards in dashing red uniforms. “Who goes there? What is your business in Tar Valon?”
“Lancelle Sedai.” Lancelle raised her hand, showing the Great Serpent ring on her first finger. “I have business at the Tower, and my companions will join me.”
“Of course, Sedai.” The guard nodded, stepping aside to let them pass.
“Ah. There is nothing quite like returning home.” Reginald commented as they all rode into Tar Valon proper. “Our welcoming committee. How nice.” The Warder said with a smile as a group of young girls dressed in white dresses, some of which had stripes of colors at the bottom. A woman dressed regally in blue was leading them.
“Novices, behave yourself.” The redheaded Aes Sedai chided as the Novices had all locked their eyes on the rather attractive men just entering Tar Valon. The Accepted had glanced in the men’s direction, but were attempting to hide their glee.
“Ooo! Look at the muscles on that one!” One of the young girls gushed and Boyd turned a vivid shade of red.
“That is enough!” The Aes Sedai commanded, hitting the girl over the head with some rolled up paper, as one would a disobeying dog. “Keep this up and you’ll be getting laundry duty for the next three fortnights!” It was than the Aes Sedai glanced at Lancelle Sedai and her companions. “Lancelle? Lancelle Sedai, is that you?” She grabbed the hem of her gown so it did not get dusty and she walked towards them, Novices and Accepted in tow.
Lancelle smiled as the woman approached. “Anne. It is good to see you. Is there any news in the Tower?”
“Dire. Dire news.” Anne says in a low whisper so only Lancelle could hear. “Though it must wait. Let us get your companions situated first?” Than in a louder voice, she looks over at Reginald as he was dismounting his horse. “Lucaaaaaaaaaaan!” She almost squeals, walking over to the Warder and throwing her arms around one of his arms. “Lancelle, you are so lucky.” Anne winked to her Gray Ajah friend.
“Ah, Anne. Still Warderless, I see?” Reginald asked, peeling himself away from the Blue Ajah. The Novices and Accepted started whispering to each other in small groups, occasionally pointing to the group, or waving at Galin or Boyd than giggling and hiding their faces. None of them seemed interested in Isabeth or Wren.
“Walk with us?” Lancelle dismounted, locating an Accepted and two Novices who were staring most openly at the men with her and speaking to them. “Bring our horses to the Tower’s stables and have the horsemaster see to them.”
Isabeth leaned toward Wren and spoke quietly. “Are Novices not allowed to stare at boys? It is a wonder anyone comes to the Tower willingly if that is true.”
“I think they are allowed to stare. . As long as they have a dignity about it.” Wren shrugged as she slipped off Bella and handed her reigns to the Accepted. Soon, the gigglers were gone, Boyd looked exceptionally more comfortable, and Anne Sedai was walking with them.
“Tell me of your friends, Lancelle. Introduce us.” Anne said smiling with her lips. Lancelle noticed, however, that Anne was not smiling with her eyes. Obviously something was wrong.
“Galin Markose, son of an innkeeper in Cairhein. Boyd McNair, soldier of the Borderlands. Isabeth, a new girl to place her name into the Novice Book. Wren Finnigan, noble from Cairhein and friend of Galin.” Lancelle took her place next to Anne, moving ahead of the others.
“Perhaps they would like to see the Warders train? While we see about getting them rooms?” Anne suggested.
“Galin is here to find someone. A girl named Beryl who was brought here a few days ago. I have little doubt he would appreciate being shown to her. Perhaps someone could introduce Boyd to the Master at Arms.”
“And the ladies? Would they like to watch the Warders? I know I do.” Anne winked while waving over a few Accepted. “Leanne. Show Galin to Drusilla’s room, please? He is here to see her impromtu roommate. Gladys, escort Boyd to Gruston. The Master at Arms would love to test himself against a Borderlander.” Boyd glanced at Lancelle before he was lead off. Leanne bowed to Galin, than began walking towards the Tower, making sure he was following.
Wren looked around, seemingly a bit uncomfortable as people were being lead off.
Galin smiled reassuringly to Wren before turning to follow Leanne, walking a few steps behind her. So... here I am, on my way to that Tower. I’ve heard there are Aes Sedai who hate men... am I going to regret coming here? Maybe I should have sent a letter to Beryl from an inn... no, go see her. I came all this way to find her.
Lancelle continued to walk toward the Tower with Anne, Reginald, Isabeth, Wren, and the Novices. “It will be good to be at the Tower again. I have been away too long.”
“Its a shame you could not come back to better news.” Anne said quietly, glancing at Wren and Isabeth. Reginald noticed the glance, and than looked over to Lancelle.
“Perhaps, if I may dear sister, I could give Isabeth and Wren a tour of Tar Valon? I trust you are in safe hands?” The Warder asks.
“Of course.” Lancelle smiled to her brother. “Go safely.”
The Warder offered his arms to both ladies. Wren’s cheeks turned slightly pink as she laced her arm through Reginald’s.
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Post by Trailfoot on Nov 15, 2010 21:23:16 GMT -5
It took ten minuted for Galin to be led to the White Tower. It took five more minutes to locate Drusilla’s room. His guide knocked, and the door swung open, revealing Beryl dressed in a simple white cotton gown. She barely noticed the woman knocking on the door, and instead focused her dark eyes on Galin.
“Gallen!” She said excitedly, pushing past the Accepted to throw her arms around Galin’s neck. “You came!”
Galin oomphed with surprise as she hugged him, returning the embrace tightly. “I was worried... I had to be sure you were okay.”
Beryl pulled back a bit, looked at the Accepted who was gawking at them and frowned prettily. “Don’t they teach you to not snoop on obviously private moments?” The Accepted’s cheeks flushed red as Beryl grabbed Galin’s hand and dragged him inside and slammed the door behind them.
It was than Beryl turned serious, sitting on the edge of one of the beds, patting a space next to her for Galin to sit. “I knew you would come. I’m glad you did. I am safe.”
Galin took his place next to Beryl, holding her hand. “I’m glad you’re safe. And I’m glad to see you.”
“Gallen. . .” She said softly, looking into his eyes, than suddenly turning away. “What will you do now? Where does the road lead you?”
“I really don’t know. I came here to find you; now that I have, I didn’t make any plans beyond that. Where do you plan to go?”
“I am to be heading to Tear. I will join up with my god father there.” Beryl said quietly. “There.. . I am not one for violence, I abhor it. Which is why I travelled with the Tinkers. . . . . There is violence in your future, Galin. I trust you’ll be careful?”
“Of course I will. I could accompany you to Tear... make sure you get there safely.” Galin let his eyes rest on her, matching her volume.
“No. . No Gallen. I wish it could be so, but our paths are not meant to combine. Not yet. Keep yourself safe. You can find me in Tear. . . When the Pattern deems it time, than you will find me in Tear.”
“How do you know all this? That I’m going into violence, that I can’t join you on the trip to Tear...” Galin frowned, squeezing her hand. “It’s somewhat confusing to me.”
Beryl lets out a small laugh. “That, I cannot say. But it is why that man spirited me away. I am sorry I am confusing you, Gallen.”
He smiled, shrugging off his confusion and distress. “My da told me once that a woman who does not routinely confound you is not worth pursuing. How long do you have before you leave for Tear?”
“A few days. I’ll spend it with you, of course.” Beryl smiled happily, resting her head on Galin’s shoulder.
“That was the answer I was hoping for.” Galin released her hand, slipping his arm around her waist. “Are you from Tear?”
“By the Light, no!” She let out a melodic laugh. “I am from the exotic lands of Ebou Dari.”
“Are you?” Galin smiled. “Even spending my life in an inn, I don’t think I’ve met an Ebou Dari girl before. I’ve heard stories about knives, though.”
“Yes, we are famous for our knives.” Beryl giggled again. “After Tear I will have to show you Ebou Dari. It can be a lovely place, providing you have a proper guide. Now.. tell me. Did Mr. Flynn treat you alright?”
“He fed us well and told us where you were. I think I nearly scared him out of his skin, though... when we came to the camp and found the man who took you there, I think we all started stalking around like we were worried there could be Trollocs behind a tree. Which, after what happened back in Cairhien, I suppose we might have been.”
“Have you yet to figure out why the Trollocs were there? They are not natural to Cairhien, are they?” Beryl asked, looking concerned.
“I honestly haven’t a clue. They’re supposed to stay to the Blight, not march all the way down to my doorstep. If any of us knows, it’s the Aes Sedai, and she’s not told us.”
“Perhaps.. you should ask?”
“You know, it amazes me that I did not think of that.”
Beryl giggled once more. “To your credit, you did have other things on your mind."
“I did at that. My main goal - the reason I left Cairhien at all - was to find you.”
“Not getting eaten by Trollocs was certainly a secondary goal. Bless the Light the Aes Sedai and her Warders showed up.”
“Thank the Light indeed... honestly, they likely saved us all. Wait... Warders? Lucan’s a Warder. As far as I know, Boyd’s just someone who was travelling with Lancelle Sedai. Either way, the three of them saved all our lives.”
“Hmm.” Beryl said quietly. “Perhaps you should ask why they were in Cairhein? Certainly they didn’t have pressing business if they were willing to change course and come to my rescue? All the way to Tar Valon, no less.”
“That would be a good thing to ask.” He sighed. “Do you think the others have ulterior motives? Maybe the Aes Sedai simply saw help that was needed and rendered it.”
Beryl shrugged. “I don’t know. I certainly hope not. But I’ve spent no time with them. I am just saying it looks suspicious, is all. Certainly they came to help against the Trollocs, but why were they in Cairhein? Its something that should be asked.”
“You’re right. I’ll ask Lancelle Sedai the next time I see her.” Galin leaned back on his elbow.
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Post by Myridd on Nov 18, 2010 22:10:57 GMT -5
“What is the bad news?” As they entered the Tower grounds, Lancelle smiled softly at the feeling of so many women who could channel - so many of her sisters - in close proximity. She folded her hands behind her back, speaking softly with her friend.
“Your brother is missing, Your mother has gone ill, and your sister has taken the throne.” Anne said really fast, pulling Lancelle away from the others. “I received a letter from Alymere, dated weeks ago. I think she sent it to me because of you being disinherited.” The Aes Sedai frowned, shaking her head with worry. “But the letter was soaked, the ink worn mostly away. I could only make out a plea for help than I hear the news about Andor.”
Lancelle stopped walking, her face showing the expression one would expect on a woman who had just been struck. “Pelleas is missing? Mother is ill?” How could this have... no, there is no time for wondering. “I fear my visit to the Tower will be short-lived, then. I shall have to leave soon.” She turned her eyes on Anne, her expression sad. “Thank you for telling me.”
“I am sorry I couldn’t get word to you sooner!” Anne pleaded, sadness in her eyes as well. “I would go with you. . . But I have the Accepted to watch over. And with no Warder I doubt they would let me leave. If it helps, I have heard that it seems as though Pelleas left of his own accord. Though that might be idle rumors.”
“It does help. And I do not blame you.” Lancelle let her full facade fall away and hugged her friend tightly. “Light, I do not blame you. I have been difficult to reach.” The boy must be watched over, yet... I cannot leave my family in danger. Not if there is any chance I might be able to help them. “I have some choices to make. Some difficult ones.”
“Let me help you, Lancelle! I can do that, at least.” Anne hugged Lancelle in return. “I want to help. . .I feel like your family is my own.”
“There is a girl among those I brought with me... an Illianer named Isabeth. She has the spark... and an exceptional amount of potential. Help her to learn?” I wish I could tell you everything, but what I know has killed too many Sisters already.
You’re hiding something from me. I know it. Anne just nodded to Lancelle as she released her hug. “I promise to let her eye the Warders with only a bit of chiding.” The Blue Ajah managed a small smile. “Can I help you prepare?”
“Do you think you can convince the Master of Horse to loan Reginald and I horses again, after the months late we were returning this time?” Or was it years? I do not even recall how long I said I would be gone.
“The Master of Horse has eyes for me. I can get you the noblest steeds we have. Will you be leaving tonight?” Anne asked, her voice going quiet. Its been so long since I’ve seen her. . . and off she goes, disappearing again. I can’t stand it, but I must sit by and watch.
“No. I will make better time if I take a moment to rest, and accomplish my goals more quickly if I take time in Tar Valon to learn what I can. I will be here a few days, I think.” Lancelle smiled sadly to her friend. “I wish I could stay longer.”
“Shall I sneak into your rooms tonight? With some hot cocoa and all of the Tower’s hottest gossip?” Anne said, trying to cheer up her friend. “Surely we have outgrown the flighty-ness of the Accepted, but it might be nice to relax. . just one night?”
“I think that would provide just what I need, actually.” Lancelle managed a more honest smile and hugged her friend once more. “I would like that very much.”
“Great!” Anne smiled widely. “Just wait until you hear what Miriam Sedai did inorder to catch the eyes of one of the Warder Trainees! Simply scandalous!” She giggled, than stepped away from her friend. “I’ll see you tonight, than. I am sure you will be wanting to speak with your brother and your other companions?”
“I will have to speak to them. I may leave the others to a night of peace, though, before I do.” I have to decide what to do with the three of them... Galin, Wren, and Boyd. Whether to bring them with me or help them find somewhere safe.
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