When the raven found the nest - Cari Namere (Rashad Ranch)

[Guest Celes]

The black veil hung loosely over her face as Carmen sat back in the saddle of her brown mare. It was as if her legs had gone limb and her behind made of stone the way she felt now. But the end was near as she reached the Rashad ranch late that afternoon. It would be dinner time for the men and women living there, but Carmen did not care about such trivial matters as when other people were supposed to eat. She was not hungry but she was in dire need of a bath and a change of dress. This one was dusty and smelt of travel and horses. She found the house nearest and then considered, it might be prudent to hide herself for now as her work would call for delicacy. She thought about the veil over her face, put there to protect her nose, lips and skin from dust and dirt and decided to keep it on now, for a different kind of protection.

 

A young girl appeared out a house to her left and smiled at the stranger in the dark clothes. She had the brightest blue eyes and looked curiously up at the horse that was meekly following Carmen as she walked past the houses and the shed. “Hi there, are you a merchant, maybe?” the girl asked and Carmen shot her an angry glance. Then her face slowly softened as she recognized something in the girl’s eyes. She looked familiar somehow, even though Carmen was sure she had never seen such a child in her life. A merchant, no that was not to be a good cover as she had nothing on her to sell. She wondered for a brief moment and then said, “No child, no merchant, but I do have something interesting to sell,” and then glanced around to find that nobody was there besides the child, “Why don’t you bring me a drink of water,” it sounded a lot like a command but the way she lifted her voice lightly, the child could do nothing but comply.

 

“Who is she,” Carmen muttered under her breath when the child appeared once more, yet not alone. Cari, the woman who had brought Carmen to the idea of using the Ranch for a few days during her stay in Carhien appeared behind the girl, a frown drawn all over her face. Surely she would recognize Carmen, it would be better for her though if she did not lead on to that. “Lady Cari,” she said as her dark eyes pierced through the other woman’s eyes. “So good to see you again, you must have known I was coming and sent this little angel to pick me up from the dusty road,” a wry smile appeared under her veil, hidden for the blushing girl’s curious eyes who now looked up at the woman and asked, “Mother, is this lady a friend? She told me she was here to sell us something,” Carmen turned pale.

 

She was more than glad to be wearing the veil over her face, the dark shade covering her skin as it drew white pale. This was the child, the child of a darkfriend and a lightfool, what luck she had to stumble into her just like that. Carmen took a step forward to look at the girl more closely and wondered what Cari would make of all this, what would her move be. Carmen had to think fast and react if she was to come out a victor. “Indeed your mother knows me,” Carmen quickly intervened,” my name is Raven of Shienar and I seek an old friend to sell information to,” she nodded at Cari as her mind raced over the new ideas she had.

 

Carmen Macaria “Raven”

Dreadlady

 

[Matalina]

"Go to the house."  Cari patted her daughter on the head, she was not about to give Carmen the girls name right off.  If she was here to sell information then she could do so now, and then leave.  Cari didn't want this woman near her daughter or the twins, much less anyone else in this house.  Cari wondered what Carmen would do if she found out she had another to whom she cared a great deal for.  The lives of more than just her family lay down on the line for this channeler that Cari dispised worst than all the others.

 

Cari didn't look to see if Fawne had complied, she was 12 and hardly in the way but she didn't need to hear what Carmen had to say.  Cari took the reigns of the woman's horse.  "Come with me."  She tried to hide her distrust as the game Carmen was playing might rely on the fact that Cari was a friend.  But how far from the truth was that.

 

"You touch anyone on this Ranch, Raven, and you will answer to a force greater than yourself.  My family is protected by a chosen friend."  Cari put an emphasis on the word chosen, she didn't want to reveal who yet, she couldn't recall if she had in the last encounter. 

 

Once in the stable Cari started to tend the horse.  "Why is it you have come?  I would prefer it if you were on your way quickly but as this is not my home I cannot ask it of you.  Are you seeking a haven or someone in particular here?"

 

Cari finished tending the horse and dropped a bucket of grain into the feeder.  "I'm sure you would like a bath and perhaps a meal before getting to your business.  If you let me know why you are hear and under what prentenses I can offer my assistance accordingly."  She didn't expect details, but she wanted to know if she wanted to spend her day with the family or in the private of someone elses house.  The Great Lord only knew who she was here to see and why.

 

Cari

 

OOC:  Not sure where you want her staying lol, she's welcome to cause Cari more trouble by staying with her.

 

 

[Guest Celes]

Carmen watched as the child moved away from them and towards the house, she appearantly lived in. The name Raven was not chosen on a whim, it suited her mood but it was also one she had not used before. Now that the girl was off, Cari spoke frank about how she felt about Carmen's appearance at the Ranch. She spoke of a Chosen who protected the Ranch, it mattered little to Carmen as she had no intention of burning it down or anything the like. However, it did spike her interest away from the girl and towards Cari, who could be the Ranch' protector? She would find out in time, just like she would find out more about the woman's daugher - all in due time.

 

"Well, quite the warm welcome for an old friend,"  Carmen said and tucked the veil down from her face to look at Cari better. "I can remember being alot more welcoming to you, even had wine to offer when we last met," she smiled at the disgruntled look the other woman shot her. "Oh relax, I am not going to bite, not even a taste I promise," she winked and stroked the mare gently. It had come a long way, yet had it stopped halfway, Carmen would not blink to strike it down and leave it behind for the reluctance to do as she wanted. "I will not stay long, Cari," Carmen said and patted the horse's neck as if she were meaning to be gentle. The horse whinnied and stepped back a pace, glad to be rid of the dreadlady's touch. Horses were intelligent creatures, that and their strength was all Carmen could appreciate them for. She stepped back from the horse and looked out over the Rashad Ranch.

 

"I do need a place to stay, yet I will not ask that you house me, my friend," Carmen said, all the while looking away from Cari who was feeding the horse and finishing the chore of settling the animal for its rest. Carmen looked at the houses around the stable and pointed at a large one to her left, "Tell me, who lives there?" it was the house left of Cari's and it would do fine to keep an eye on that family while not being bothered with them around her too much. The freedom of it being on the outside of the Ranch appealed to her. Appearantly a seamstress girl lived there, but she was not home, travelling since a few weeks and not due back for some time, Carmen thought it was perfect but Cari seemed unsure. "Help me settle in, dear and I will be out of your hair soon," she said with a light smile and then moved the veil over her face as she heard a man's voice. It looked to be a farmer, he looked stern over her and then nodded, "Cari, who is your guest?" to which Carmen wondered what the reply would be. Her cover was important if her mission was to be a succes, but would Cari agree to that, she had been nice to the woman so far. What harm did Cari expect 'Raven' to do while staying here?

 

Carmen

[Matalina]

Cari looked over to Nathan who was inquiring.  "This is Raven.  She's a friend, she's requesting a stay for a short time, but she'd like to stay in Aki's house.  She's not here."

 

Nathan gave her this look when she said a friend, Cari seemed to have alot of friends these days  but he did acknowledge that this was a different sort of friend, a darkfriend to be exact.  But he wouldn't ask anymore questions.  "Just make sure your friend doesn't take Aki's things."

 

Cari nodded.  "I will do the best I can."

 

With the matter settled Cari held out her arm in the direction of Aki's house.  "This way, Raven." 

 

Cari wasn't sure what she could do if her friend decided to take anything or even to channel at her, but then Nalia would know someone else was here.  It was nice to have a semi-friendly Dreadlord handy. 

 

"I can't offer you much as I'm not sure what Aki has on hand, but your welcome to dinner in the main house, or to join the family."  Cari wanted to make sure Carmen was watched carefully and it was much easier if she only had to tend to her own family.  Demus would hopefully stay away tonight.

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

Carmen could feel a change happening as she walked over the Ranch, she could almost feel someone channeling. It was not an unpleasant sort of feeling, it meant that this place was probably alot like the Fortress in its protection. It also meant that the channeler might know Carmen and that was something to avoid, for now. She looked around the living room they had entered, it had bright colored blankets hanging over the two large chairs and an intricate pattern of thin threads made an odd sort of mural, to her left. At hearing the name, Carmen smiled, she had known that her old servant Akasha was hiding here for some time now, yet the interest in getting the girl back in her allegiance had died down some. Still, it would be interesting to see if the poor girl had left something while absent. The place looked vacant and not very personal, Carmen thought this might have to do with the girl's interest in fleeing a scene on moment's notice. The greatest value this darkfriend had had to Carmen, was that she did not attach herself, not to friends, not to lovers and certainly not to a home. However, this last thing seemed to have changed as Akasha lived in this house. Carmen nodded to Cari, "Maybe your hospitality extends to a meal, old friend?" she did not ask, it sounded all the more like an instruction. And as Cari made to leave the house, Carmen said, "and I would appreciate your company of course," and smiled.

 

Carmen

[Matalina]

Cari hated doing Carmen's bidding but it was better to do it willingly than to be forced to do it.  She'd felt the woman's wrath one too many times.  Though this time the woman might bet a bit more than she bargained for.  She wasn't the idle play toy, and the only true pain she could and would cause would be with the one power, but Carmen didn't need to know her own thirst for pain in whatever form.  Cari shook herself from her thoughts and went to her house to tell the children to dine with the Rashad's the twins were extactic to spend the evening in the ranch house, they enjoyed Taylor's company immensely.

 

Cari walked with them to the Ranch's kitchen where she asked Nona for two meals to take back to her house.  She had a guest who preferred their solitude.  She didn't say more than that as she picked up the tray Nona had provided her.  Cari smiled at the woman and headed back to Aki's house.  It wasn't a long walk but it gave her time to clear her head.  It was her home this woman came to and now it was time for her to be nice to Cari, hopefully she would remember where she was.

 

Cari didn't knock on Aki's door she would have if Aki had been home, but it was Carmen and she was a guest in a friend of her's house.  "Mistress Nona, has provided a selection of food for you."  It wasn't much and it was exactly what the house was getting, even the meatless stew that was in a bowl for Cari.  She poured Carmen a glass of wine, and took her water and stew and sat at Aki's table. 

 

She didn't like this any better than she had any other time Carmen had shown up in her life, but now hopefully she had some control over the situataion or Be'lal might have someone to deal with.

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

As Cari left the small house, Carmen looked around assuming a pose of curiosity for Akasha’s belongings while letting her mind work over these recent discoveries. It seemed to have come too easy for her, where was the fun in hunting for anything when the pray walked up to you smiley-faced and all. Carmen let the image of the little girl dance in front of her, she had not done a test on the child, but maybe that was something for the morrow, to see if she had the ability to learn or to spark. Carmen could teach her then, earn her trust and complete the transition for her to become a faithful servant. She might even persuade Akasha to have a hand in this process, or she might forget about the woman altogether. Although, Carmen did not forget easily.

 

She was disturbed from her thoughts by the return of Cari, this time holding a tray with bowls of something that smelt as disgusting as it must taste. Carmen placed herself slowly across the table from Cari and stared at the other woman who had started to eat. For now she would play nice to her hostess, as Cari had given her no reason to act otherwise. She had given her a place to stay and kept her true identity to herself, assuming this friend Raven as if she truly were that.

 

It was a very useful move for now as Carmen had no idea who else could overhear, who else could benefit from the knowledge that Carmen had left the sanctuary of the Fortress and was traveling once more. She smiled, took a sip from her wine and then tried a small bite from the stew, it tasted of nothing in particular and she took a few more bites before deciding it was just not worth it. “Not that hungry,” she said and tore some bread of from the bun that lay on the tray still. It was dry but not too bad and she took another chunk, before asking Cari, “How did you end up living here? You are a faithful servant, a warrior even and yet you seem to have gone into hiding, a family as your cover perhaps?”

 

She wondered about this woman, it was an enigma to the dreadlady who could always read the people around her like the open books they were. Cari had given up everything to be a mother, assuming a different name and no longer serving anyone in particular. Or was she now a faithful servant to all? Carmen stared deep into the woman’s dark eyes and felt a bit taken by the fact that this woman could not be turned to her liking more, she knew the other side of Carmen’s friendliness and they both knew that they would never trust each other completely, perhaps not at all.

 

[Matalina]

"The work is good here."  Cari didn't elaborate at first, taking a bite of her stew and chewing on some stringy vegetable for a while before swallowing.  "And I don't mean in horse care."  Cari gave Carmen an evil sort of smile, not directed at her but at nothing in particular, her mood always shifted when speaking of what she loved doing.  "My family is not my cover, the work I preform her daily is but my family is the only reason to stay alive." 

 

Cari took another bite.  "Master Nathan has many contacts and many friends pay well to keep their secrets from the light fools.  And some light fools pay even better to be rid of theirs.  I work for the money, no other reason.  I work for whoever has the coin to pay me."

 

Cari got up and moved slowly around behind Carmen.  The woman didn't move but Cari knew she was gripped in the tangles of the One Power if she made a wrong move she would be dead before she knew it.  But Cari didn't make any sudden movements she only wanted to tell Carmen in absolute private.  She leaned over her shoulder and brushed aside her hair to whisper in her ear.  "I have changed from the woman you knew.  No longer honor bound to the Shining Walls.  No longer the slave to those who can channel.  There is nothing you can do to me that hasn't already been done.  Why are you here Carmen?  Come to try to make playthings of those I love?  Or are you really in need to refuge or someone to do your bidding?  For a price, I can keep your secrets or help you remove them from your side..."  Cari leaned in and kissed her neck.  "There are many changes you have no clue about Carmen or shall I say Raven."  Cari stood up she wanted to see what Carmen would do to her advances, Cari had no desire to be with this woman, no matter how attractive she was, but this is the one person who might give Cari what she wanted with out asking, to be forced.

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

Carmen glanced over her shoulder as if she could see the mark that Cari had left on her neck, before slowly moving her dark gaze back upon the woman. “Well, well, you have come to like me so much more in these past few hours we have spent together”. She smiled and her gaze was open and wondering as she took Cari’s soft curves in, her round face and her feminine form. She felt a little excited at this turn of events. It had been all too long since Carmen had come out to play. And she did remember well what it was like playing with the woman standing before her, or at least the woman she used to be. Carmen decided she would see where it lead them and rose to her feet, she was shorter than Cari was but not by much and could tilt her head just a little to see the other woman straight in the face.

 

“You know I was trained to get from men and women alike, that which I what  from them. You have been with me before and yet you seek to invite me now – to come and play?” her voice rose softly. “Who are you, my friend? Is this Cari, the mother of three and lover of none?” and watched as Cari merely gazed back at her calmly. “Or is it Matalina, mother of none and lover of….?” she smiled and licked her lips as Cari opened her mouth to speak. Yet silence filled the room, for before the other woman could speak, Carmen pressed her lips against hers and smothered the words Cari was about to say. The act of hurting did not have to be physical to inflict pain upon one’s victim as Carmen knew all too well, words could sting badly.

 

“Now, don’t struggle dear, you invited me remember?” and Carmen tilted her head to look at Cari and take her in full. In her youth, Carmen was trained to please and to punish, as she was used to the same treatment from her teachers. There was a thin line between physical pain and pleasure, as Cari would soon find out. Carmen took a thin blade from its sheath she kept under her skirt. “This is just a tool - to play with,” she said and ran the blade softly over Cari’s chin. Time seemed to pass quicker now as the game began and Carmen ran her fingers through Cari’s hair. “This won’t hurt a bit,” she said.

 

The bruise on Cari’s lower lip was only visible by the light of the three candles that Carmen had lit with a small flick of the One Power. She had not channeled much these past few hours, not more than the flick of a finger to light a candle. The knife lay on the floor, and as Carmen reached for it to tuck it away, she found a soft trickle of blood run down her right arm. It was not her blood however as she knew even without looking for a cut. The blood felt warm and the taste of it was still lingering on Carmen’s lips. “I understand if you want to go to your home now, for a change of dress maybe?” She closed her eyes and said, “I’ll see you at breakfast I’m sure.”

 

Carmen

 

[Matalina]

The past hours were more of a dream than anything doused with pain and pleasure and Cari wasn't sure who got more out of it Carmen or her.  But it mattered little she had only struggled a little against the Dreadlord, it was the one power she feared not the woman herself.  Cari let Carmen do with her as she wanted and she did as she was told, with only a small amount of protest to give Carmen the pleasure of hurting her more.  Cari was surmisely dismissed and Cari knew she had some covering up to do before she saw Yearn again.  He would undoubtledly want to know who did the damage.  Demus would not give it much thought, he knew Cari's likes but she did wonder what the men would think of her giving herself to someone like this for the pure pleasure of getting hurt.

 

Cari did go home and change clothes, and made close inspection of her wounds tending each of them with care and concealing anything that was apparent.  There was no need to lie about what had happened both knew she enjoyed the company of women, but Cari began to wonder why she'd chosen Carmen for such pleasure, a woman she could barely stand the sight of.

 

Morning dawned and with out being told or asked Cari brought Carmen breakfast.  It was a selection of meats and cheses and fruit.  She hoped that the dreadlord would find something appeasing in it since she'd refused dinner.  Cari didn't knock on the front door it wasn't Carmen's house but she did knock on Aki's bedroom door.  "Raven, I've brought you breakfast, but I must be getting to my chores so I cannot join you."

 

Cari waited for an acknowledgment, she had started to regret doing what she'd given to Carmen, she'd given her control and now Carmen had better not press the issue or things could end badly for them.

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

The ivory comb ran down the curls that washed over Carmen’s shoulders as she sat on the side of the bed. She had slept a few hours after playtime and had got up early that morning to prepare herself for that day. She had invited Cari over, more to see what her plans would be than to enjoy her company. The fun was played out and Cari had not even winced at her little trick with air lashes. If it had not been painfully good, it would have been boring Carmen thought and tapped a hand on her knee when a knock on the door announced her faithful subject.

 

Carmen waited to let Cari give her information, rather than to ask for it. It was always easier to allow people to speak when they were unsure about what to say, things tend to slip like that. She could not ask straight out where the children would be that day, but she could ask to have a meeting with the Ranch owner and on her way back drop by Cari’s house to check when she was on her chores. The words came easy, she looked over Cari’s face and nodded, “Nicely covered that bruise on your lip, my pet,” she said and smiled. The look Cari shot her told her that this was as far as she would allow Carmen to go. The raven spread its wings and Carmen hid her irritation with this false sense of power that Cari showed off. The woman did not get her way, just because she had allowed Carmen to have hers.

 

“I’ll be off to talk to the man who we met yesterday,” Carmen said and tucked her silk black shirt in her skirt, then moved her hands through her hair to let her curls hide half her face. “He does not know me, but others might. So do not speak to anyone about me, speak of Raven if you must." She looked at Cari and moved her face in a similar close way to Cari's as the woman had done the night before, "I’ll allow you some more fun in a few days,” and then took the tray from Cari. “Shoo, be off to your chores,” she said while looking over the honey, bread and meat cuts. As Cari moved towards the door, Carmen looked up and said in an innocent and friendly voice, “I wish you a good day,” then let her attention return to the food. Finally, she was hungry and ready to eat. Biting down into an apple, she thought about her plans for the day ahead.

 

Carmen

[Matalina]

Cari didn't like her tone and as she walked toward the door she fought the desire to bite into Carmen's hide, but the anger with in her won out, fueled the shadow's desire to hurt Carmen even if it would mean her death.  Cari turned before opening the door.  "I am not your pet.  I am not your servant to send bidding or to pleasure you.  Here."  Cari pointed at the floor indicating a whole lot more though by the tone of her voice.  "Here, one word from me can send you packing at the very least or even more to my liking you can wind up shielded and in my little undground room where you will find no solice from the darkness or from the pain.  Don't think I wouldn't enjoy hurting you any less than what you've done to me.  I have the power her Carmen.  Just because you can channel doesn't make you higher than me.  So leave off treating me like your faithful servant, you don't pay me to do your bidding and I don't need your protection."  Cari turned towards the door but before opening it.  "You will find Nathan in the farthest field today, he's working with some of the more troublesome steeds there."  Cari opened the door and slammed it as she left.

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

“Temper, temper,” Carmen muttered under her breath and shook her head as she watched Cari move away through the window. She knew that she was under a similar security rule here as the one used in the Fortress. But she also knew that there were not many dreads around to stop her if she wanted to play with Cari again. Or if she decided to stop the other woman from shooting her mouth off at the dreadlady, but for now it was part of a little game the two women had. It mattered little that there was no real victory in the end, just the taste of blood and the memory of pain for her pet. She smiled and decided to find this Nathan Rashad and get her work over with.

 

Outside she started to walk towards what looked like the fields that Cari had described. She noticed the woman standing near the stables and brushing leather saddles with a piece of cloth, two young girls standing next to her. The one who had greeted her the day before held a broom in hand and looked sourly at it and then up at her mother who sent her off to work the broom over the pathway in front of their house. The other girl was playing with some stones and seemed to lift them a little off the ground. To an untrained eye, she appeared to be picking them up and dropping them quickly, but to the dreadlady it looked more like the girl was using light weaves of Air. Might be something to look into later, Carmen thought and nodded at the three women, as she saw that Cari was staring at her now, then moved along.

 

She found Nathan soon enough and spoke of the business she had with him. She would pay for his generosity in hard coin and could bring him news from the Fortress. Rasputin’s name was used and soon the man was like putty in her outstretched hands. He agreed to help her set up a line of communications, under the idea that this was to serve a purpose for the Fortress a whole. The Blight had ways of finding information and news, Carmen would have a new source thanks to Cari. She decided to pay her family a visit soon, bearing gifts for the children maybe. After she had explained to Nathan about the structure of such a network and what was expected of him, she handed him a small leather pouch filled with solid gold coins and then left him to his work. “I will probably leave in a few days time, should the mistress of the house I am staying at return, I will be sure to leave sooner,” Nathan shrugged and went back to work, the pouch in his pocket, his hand rubbing over it from time to time. Carmen was delighted to find the power of gold coin had worked its magic so easily once again.

 

The little girl who had been fiddling with the stones had disappeared and Carmen found the other child, sweeping the pathway between the houses. She was not really sweeping, but more dancing with the broom and sweeping some dust from left to right, only to sweep it right back again as she danced around the stick with elegance paces. Carmen watched her act for a while and then made a thread of air and spirit which she let sweep over the ground around the little girl. She was careful not to touch the child with her weave, she aimed to earn the girl’s trust. A gust of air moved along the girl’s skirts and her big blue eyes looked up at Carmen’s, curiosity unveiled. “Did you do that?” she asked, her lips curling up in delight. She was not afraid of the One Power, interestingly enough and Carmen found that the girl showed not a hint of fear for her own presence either.

 

“Yes I did, can you do something like that? Work with the air around you maybe?” Carmen asked and moved towards the girl, releasing the power and moving her hands towards the little one’s. “What’s your name child, tell me your name and give me your hand.” The girl stretched out her left arm and took Carmen’s outstretched hand, then she said, “My name is Fawne Namere and I did not know there was an Aes Sedai at the Ranch here,” she looked pensive and said, “Mommy could have told me there were Aes Sedai, do you have news of Tar Valon?” Carmen smiled and thought about a reply when Cari appeared behind the girl, pulling her back and as Carmen released the girl’s hand she looked up at Cari. “Don’t worry, Fawne here was done sweeping the path and we just had a little chat,” she said and winked at the little girl who grinned back and then turned to her mother. “Yes mother, this Aes Sedai was just asking me my name, that is ok right?” and smiled at Cari.

 

Raven & Fawne

[Matalina]

Cari was going to lie to her daughter for one of the few times she had to since Fawne came to live with her, she had promised her self to never lie to Fawne after what Alex had done to her, but Fawne did not need to know that this woman tortured her father before she was born.  "Yes, it's fine.  But you have other chores to be getting to." 

 

"But, Mother, I want to talk with the Aes Sedai."

 

Cari couldn't exactly tell Fawne that Carmen was no Aes Sedai, Carmen would clearly not claim to be one, she must have channeled in front of the girl.

 

"I'm afraid Raven Sedai has been away from the Tower for many years and can't fill you in on home."  Cari knew she'd given Carmen a bit too much information but she would learn soon enough whose child she was if she didn't know already.

 

"You have chores to do before lunch.  Perhaps Raven Sedai will join us for lunch and you can speak with her."  Cari looked over at Fawne who seemed to be extremely happy with that and then over to Carmen.  "Will you grace us with your presence at lunch?"

 

Cari wanted to be there when she spoke to her daughter.  "I'm sure you have other things than to watch a child do her chores."

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

The invitation for lunch was almost a friendly offer, but the dreadlady knew that Cari did not really want her near her family. She was smart enough to offer, so that she could keep the control. For now it was ok, for now Carmen would play Raven Sedai of Tar Valon and see what she could learn about the two girls. Maybe they were both channelers and could both be taught under her guidance. The mother was only a nuisance to the dreadlady who had more strengths than just the One Power. She nodded, “I will see you at lunch, will you be cooking Cari?” she asked and smiled.

 

She returned to Akasha’s home and settled in a chair, closing her eyes and opening herself up to the dream state that her former mistress found a good channel of communication. It was a way for her to pull Carmen into the world of dreams when they needed to confer, but since quite some time of many months now, her mistress had not shown herself. Carmen had understood from Cari that one of the Chosen was master over the Ranch, she was sure it was not the Daughter of the Night but was curious to see who it was then. After a while, Carmen’s thoughts had cleared and she got up to write a message for one of her minions in the Fortress. It had to say she was traveling longer and would seek a way to increase her means before too long. She could use the new network she had asked Nathan Rashad to set up. A test run as one might say.

 

Soon it was time for her lunch with Cari and her family and Carmen decided to dress up for the occasion. She put on a low cut deep green dress with a silver sash down the skirt. Pulling on a string of curls, she wondered about what to bring for lunch, a silver dagger or perhaps some herbs to spice up Cari’s food? The herbs it was, as it would allow Carmen some time with the children while their mother took an afternoon nap. “She looks tired, she must not have had much sleep last night, let’s help her out,” Carmen tapped the small pouch that contained the dried herbs and then placed it in the broad sleeve of her dress, hidden from sight and suspicion.

 

 

[Matalina]

Cari didn't want to cook, but for some reason when Carmen suggested things Cari seemed to do them.  She wondered if the woman used the One Power to control her but Cari would never know and she would definitely not ask.  Cari was longing for Demus' company at lunch.  She had an odd feeling about it and she wanted someone she trusted around.  But Cari also didn't want him near Carmen, she'd had her fun with Alex, she wasn't going to give her the opportunity with another man she cared for. 

 

Cari rushed her chores to have something ready for lunch more than bread and meats.  She had the time to throw in a small chicken to roast with a few vegetables and herbs to flavor them and made an accompanying salad.  Cari didn't trust Carmen one bit and made some tea as well.  She flavored the tea heavily with lemongrass and mint before adding in enough forkroot to keep Carmen away from the One Power.  It was far easier to handle her with out the power behind her back.  It wouldn't do any harm to anyone else except give them a mild headache, but they were use to forkroot tea.  Cari often put it in her tea when she knew Nalia would be around. 

 

Cari had Aiden set the table.  He had finished his chores early and had asked for Taylor to come eat with them since they were staying home.  Cari obliged the lad, it was better to have more than family around.  Cari truly wished for Demus' presence at that point but she wanted him safe and a surprise to the Dreadlord if she did ever try anything.

 

Cari opened her door to let the fresh air in and keep Carmen from having to knock.  The girls hurried in to the house and cleaned up, they both were eager to talk with a real life Aes Sedai.  Kate and Fawne made a place for Carmen to sit between them and Cari shook her head, if they only knew.  Aiden and Taylor sat next to each other at the head of the table and Cari was left to sit across from Carmen.

 

Everyone waited patiently for Carmen to arrive, the food was sitting in front of them when the raven haired beauty walked in the door.  It was a sight to watch Aiden and Taylor with their mouths wide open.  It wasn't often someone dressed up in front of them, and surely not someone with Carmen's figure. 

 

"Welcome Raven, if you'll have a seat we can start lunch."

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

The table was set and everyone had taken a seat when Carmen entered, she realized that they were waiting for her to begin and she took her time to find the empty seat between the two girls. “Good afternoon everyone,” she said and made a point of looking each of them in their face, to see each of them as they sat. “Cari, dear friend, why don’t you introduce me to your family before I share a meal with them?” and Cari did so, hesitant at first but soon with a bright smile as the children were all looking up at her. Aidan, Taylor who was not her own son, Fawne, whom she had met and Kate, whom Carmen had seen playing with the stones and the air. They all started to eat and Carmen took a sip from her tea as she watched Kate take a big chunk of chicken and eat as if it was her last meal. Carmen was not used to sharing a meal often, especially not with children and had to smile a little at their mannered yet a little childish behavior.

 

Taking a second sip from her tea, Carmen found the taste vile and set it down by her plate. The others seemed not to notice, they ate and drank until there was no more and Carmen had to admit that the food was good. She managed to try some of the chicken before Aidan gulped down the last piece and finished the salad on her plate, while remembering the small pouch she had up her sleeve. She managed to pull it down and free some of its contents into the palm of her hand, just as Cari offered to refresh her tea. “Yes please,” and rose to hand her cup over to Cari who sat quite far from her across the table. In this movement she let the cup drop a bit, as if the warmth of the tea surprised her, while moving her other hand over Cari’s fresh cup.

 

She watched Cari sip the tea from beneath her eyelashes and smiled at Kate who told her that she really liked Carmen’s dress. “Maybe I can ask Aki to make me a dress like that,” Kate said, her eyes growing big at the thought. Carmen nodded and noticed that Cari was not struggling as hard as she would have, the herbs were working and the other woman was touching her forehead and stroking hair from her face, while seeming more troubled to keep her eyes open. “Are you alright mom,” Fawne asked, a look of worry shooting over her face, “you look a bit pale,” she added. Carmen did not look up from her tea, but felt something changing inside of her. As if her stomach suddenly was very tight and she had to take deep breathes, all the while watching Cari as she decided to rise and get some fresh air. However, as she rose it seemed like gravity pulled on her and Carmen noticed how she was swaying on her feet. Then with a thud, Cari fell to the ground and lay there, her head lolling off the side of her arm.

 

“Mommy!” the four children were up on their feet as Kate screamed and held Cari’s head in her hands. “What is wrong with her?” Fawne asked Carmen, “You are Aes Sedai, please heal her,” she continued and stroked Cari’s face. Carmen moved over to Cari’s body and saw the chest rise and fall in a steady pace. “She is sleeping dear, just very tired I guess, did you not like the big lunch she made?” she looked around the children and said, “we will let her sleep for a bit, and we'll be quiet while she does." She channeled a flow of Air, or at least tried to but it seemed like something was keeping her from that. Her attempt at lifting the body failed, she could not find the One Power and for a brief moment panic struck. Then Carmen remembered the vile taste of the tea and nodded with a smile, the score had evened so soon already. So, she asked the two boys to help Cari over to the bed and let her sleep there.

 

When she was alone with the two girls, Carmen asked Fawne and Kate to sit back down again. She could not take too long, Cari had only taken a few sips before she fell down so the herbs would only keep her dozing for half an hour, or less depending on how she reacted to it. It was more than enough though, as Carmen tested both girls for their ability and asked them about their life on the Ranch. The boys soon came back to tell her that their mother had not woken up yet, but Aiden had felt her breath on his hand as he moved her head on the pillow. “She’ll be fine, you go about your games now children,” she said and followed them out. Kate decided to stay with her mother and clear the table after lunch. Carmen decided she should leave now and find out how long her shield would keep her. She did not need her skill for the testing of apprentices, but she did to protect herself from anyone else who was curious about the results. Or about what a dreadlady was doing on this Ranch with Cari’s children. She waited on the bench in front of Akasha’s house, sipping on a tea she made herself. This time had been the last time she drank Cari’s tea.

 

 

[Matalina]

OOC:  Sorry for the delay I had every intention of posting yesterday except that damn migraine was killing me still have a mild one but it's not incapacitating.

 

Cari found herself lying in her bed, her head was throbbing and she felt a little dry in the mouth.  Kate nearly strangled her to death when she saw her mother sitting up the hug was so tight.  Cari smiled as she pried her daughter off of her.  "I'm alright, though I don't want you hanging around Raven Sedai when I'm not around do you understand, that goes for all you children."  Kate nodded as she hugged her mother still.

 

Cari stood up with her daughter wrapped around her.  She went straight for the tea pot and the cups and dumped all their contents out.  She didn't know what had happened but she wasn't about to risk the children or her self with a Dreadlord sitting around next door.

 

Cari set Kate down who was now hovering near her mother.  Cari went outside and saw Carmen sitting out side.  She walked over cautiously wondering where Fawne and the boys where, she needed to tell them to stay away from the woman.  "Raven Sedai, I don't mean to be rude, but next time just ask if you want to be with the children alone.  Not that I'll grant it, but this is my home.  I did not presume to make requests in your home don't do so in mine."

 

Cari was only playing at being nice, she wanted to slit the woman's throat and watch as the blood drained out of her pretty little skin.  The shadow stirred at the images floating around in her head and Meeghan started to cry.  It was very discosorting to have one thrive on violence and one scared to the deepest pits of the world of it.  Cari tried to ignore the feelings both were sending out but she had no choice whe wasn't about to lose control now.  There was too much at stake.

 

"I would appreciate it if you left my children alone while they are doing their chores."  And that was all Cari would say, she turned to walk towards the barn to begin her afternoon chores.

 

Cari

[Guest Celes]

The woman would probably never learn unless she was taught properly how to behave among those who had great power over her than she could realize. Carmen was growing tired of the woman’s pressing need to better herself over the dreadlady and finally realized she would have to hurt this woman. She returned to Akasha’s home when a letter reached her later that day. The new network she had set up already worked well and it was good to see that some of the Ranch inhabitants knew their place.

 

She received word of a gathering not far from Cairhien and was interested to go there. Leaving the Rashad Ranch for a later date, when more was clear. There were now several points of interest here, the least being Cari who was only a defiant child in the eyes of the dreadlady. But her children, especially the two girls were of a different matter. And then there was the woman who had left Carmen’s network, who had disappeared from her job to seek what, love? Freedom? Carmen decided she would return for Akasha later too.

 

No need for goodbyes, the raven flew of as swift as she had come and knew that her place was secure at the Ranch. Its owners were not under her control, but they were part of her network now. Paid by the Fortress, in duty to their own leaders and servant to whomever they chose, still they would work for Carmen when needed. It was good, it was more than she could have hoped for coming to this place. Carmen heeded the stag on and moved away from the Rashad Ranch, knowing she would return. This nest was too great too leave alone for too long, another crow or pest might step in and take what was there for grabs.

 

Carmen left her mark on the Ranch though, she made sure a small weave rested on the houses of Akasha and Cari. One that would be detected, but not feared or dealt with unless the channeler who found the weave thought it best to rid of all weavings. It was just a whisper, a doorbell that rang many miles away when a change happened in either of these houses. Yes, the raven never left her nest unattended.

 

Carmen Macaria