Just sent you a PM :) Glad you want to join us though! Let me know if I can be of any more help!

*stamps* approved!

Lavinya's words lingered on the air a moment, and she felt a moments remorse. Such a simple sentence she had uttered, yet within it she had revealed so much, creating further vulnerabilities, access to strike a most cutting blow. Yet at the same time came a sense of relief, of achievement. There was not a soul alive that Lavinya could be open to, could be her true self, the woman beneath the mask of Aes Sedai serenity. Mentally preparing herself for the blow, or at least the retreat of the one who was pointing out holes in her defences she never knew existed, she closed her eyes, her head lowered. She had opened herself unthinkingly, she deserved to suffer the consequences of her foolishness.

Hope, a tiny flicker she hardly dared give life to surged inside her as Corin spoke. He had not taken his leave, abandoning the foolish Aes Sedai to her girlish whims of escape, to an utterly isolated existance. Warmth from his body at her side called to her, urged her to reach out and take what she so badly needed, the mirror she had seen in his intense emerald gaze, yet she could not. For once, she was weary of the game, of the pretense. When had all her goals and dreams lost their meaning? When had she lost her true identity in the fruitless scrabble of her own ambition? An ache inside her demanded attention, a need for comfort, for acceptance, as she was, but also a need for closeness, a need to surrender. The ache bloomed and spread until Lavinya was certain it would consume her, such an extraordinary feeling of melancholy like she'd never experienced. She teetered on the edge, desperately stricing for self control as the softly spoken words registered in her mind, as warm, gentle hands touched her shoulders, turning her.

Lavinya lifted her head, eyes opening only to drown in the stormy sea in Corin's eyes, the tumult of want and stark need fanning the small flicker of hope until it was a flame, burning, demanding. Her lips parted, her heart pounding in her chest. Light, but she wanted those things so badly, wanted to be simply Lavinya Morganen, woman, wanted. Simple. Her breath caught as the warmth travelled to her bare arms, her skin reacting as though burnt from the touch.

“To know what others know, simple thoughts and desires, no games, no motives save that of two people alone.â€It was as if he read her thoughts, the words so beautiful to her ears she almost wanted to weep, or laugh...something! His mouth was so close to hers, his breath hot as it fanned her face. Her entire body screamed for the contact, her lips very nearly trembling with their need for his kiss, to taste, to indulge, to simply feel. No games, no calculating, nothing but a man and a woman, reaching out to one another the way people had since time immemorial.

Her palms lifted, framing the earnest, handsome face before her, and the last of her trifling defenses crumbled. Her whole life, it seemed, hung on the balance, her heart lay open for the trampling, slave to her weakness, her girlish desire for a true friend, a twin soul to share with. Had she found it? She hardly believed in love anymore, it had never spared her a second glance. Indeed, even on what should have been her happiest day, love had abandoned her and left her broken. But she knew she needed something more, that she could never face another day alone, completely and utterly alone. "You have no idea how much I want what you offer." She whispered, fingers lightly caressing the freshly shaven skin of his cheeks as she gazed at him earnestly. "No one has ever seen me as the woman I am, no one ever wanted to believe she existed." Lavinya swallowed, years and years of pent up emotion swirling uncontrollably through-out her being.

A tear she refused to allow free reign burned in her heart, somewhere in the back of her mind she recognised it as ludicrous, already she had given so much of herself to this man she hardly knew, whether he realised it or not. She should stop this madness, move away from the one who was proving so dangerous, yet she was powerless to stop it as her lips made their own way to his, the contact loosing the damn inside of her so that she was a potent blend of desire, need, and surrender given with a tiny sigh of resignation.

Never had a simple kiss meant so much, pleasure flooding her being where their lips caressed and tasted, while at the same time her heart leapt. She sought to gain nothing, but to give pleasure and receive pleasure mutually, to share a little piece of herself. To be just a woman, a woman who was wanted and appreciated, accepted, just by being who she was. Her hands slid into Corin's hair, holding him close, not wanting to lose the moment, the equisite sensation of being free. Passion was a raging inferno, threatening to over power her even as she gave it free reign. Not a hint of thought was given to the future, nothing else existed but this moment, this second, this breath. This one window of opportunity where she could leave her duty and the binds that would hold her behind - and she was taking hold of it with both hands and refusing to let it be taken from her.

The answering fire in Corin's embrace only fueled the fire that burned within, the sense of tearing down barriers and propriety heady in its appeal. Forever the kisses would be imprinted on her memory, Corin's taste and smell, his touch, forever burned in her soul, for she knew, for this shining moment, she was seen as the woman behind the shawl and the ring, the woman behind the gift of channelling.

The brief flicker of thought surrounding her duty instantly brought the reality of the situation crashing down on her head, a cold fist clenching around her heart. She was what she was - why did she fool herself? And why did she always seek to take someone into the abyss with her? Was she truly so selfish and callous? Light, she was making truth of every rumour ever containing her name. Why should anyone believe this was any different? Why should she be considered anything other than a filthy lightskirt? No one knew the truth, no one knew the secrets she buried inside. No one cared to know. Until Corin. How had he done it? How had his simple manner and delightful conversation managed to guide him past her outter shell, and introduce him to the pathetically lonely woman she was?

Searching one's soul is never pleasant, and for the first time in her entire life Lavinya felt something knew - self-loathing. She turned her head, breaking the delicious contact with the soft lips of her companion, her arms still about him and her breath coming in gasps, evidence of the intense arousal his touch had provoked. Her body fought with her mind, wanting to continue the surrender, to sink into the warmth offered, to forget, but her mind for once was focused on someone other than herself. Corin did not deserve to have his reputation dragged through the mud on her behalf. He was the only one who had ever showed any semblance of concern for her person, and she reacted by taking advantage, by playing her feminine wiles on him. Even as she thought it, she couldn't admit it as entirely true, he had matched her every step of the way, why it was proving impossible to remove her arms from about his shoulders. He had genuinely wanted her, not because she had played him as a toy to amuse herself with. "I'm sorry." She whispered, voice chocked with emotion, her lips at his ear as she tightened her embrace, barely holding back the tears that threatened once more. Light, but she did not cry, why start now? She avoided his gaze, ridden with guilt and hating herself more for being too weak to leave his embrace, her heart still yearning for more than what she had. "I'm sorry." She breathed again as she rested her brow on his shoulder, face turned into his neck. Hating herself for being so weak as to need someone.

Lavinya

Open for the killing strike

Dorian is, well, not a strong personality type. He's friendly, enjoys a bit of fun, bit is fairly reserved, a follower, keeps out of trouble, and always tries to to the right thing. He is the kind to grumble about a task but give it everything he's got until its done. Kinda on the wimpy side, I guess

Whack! The sound of bells tinkled faintly, in contrast to the birch as it whistled through the air and connected with the desk with a loud thwap. The novice seated before the wooden desk jumped at the sound, her eyes wide with fear and trepidation. Faerzyne did not relish the task of punishing the wayward, despite what the girl’s believed. But it was a task she had to fulfil, nonetheless, and she always made certain to do a good job of it, lest she see the perpetrators again soon after their initial visit.

Cool hazel eyes surveyed the now quailing novice, her lower lip trembling at the thought of the irch being applied to her more tender flesh. It had been the first time Faerzyne had had the duty to deal with this girl, caught out of her room after curfew. Inclined to believe her story of simply losing track of time in the library, Faerzyne had refrained for birching the girl, or even giving her a chore. On this occasion, a sharp scare out to do the trick. Whack! the birch struck the wooden desk again, and the frightened novice shrank back further in the uncomfortable chair. “I don’t need to tell you the importance of curfew again, do I child?†She asked, a wry twist to her mouth. The girl shook her head hurriedly, and Faerzyne nodded briefly, causing the bells in her long braids to tinkle once more. “I thought not. Now off with you child. I do not want to see you in this office again, understood?†The novice, now pale with fright scrambled out of her chair, mumbling apologies and curtseying, even as she dashed to the door.

With a sigh, Faerzyne returned the birch to it’s place in her cupboard, before moving to sit behind her desk. Closing her eyes briefly, she felt a tingle as one of her wards was breached, the resulting knock causing her to open her eyes. The day was young, and already it was proving to be a testing day. “Enter.†She called, following the command with a weave of air which opened the door, much to the obvious shock of the girl who stood on the other side, accompanied by a Green Sister. Not clothed as an initiate, an outsider, or petitioner perhaps. Waving them in, Faerzyne nodded to Aramina as appropriate, and regarded the girl with a smooth, though not unkind face. “My name is Faerzyne Grigory, and I am the Mistress of Novices here at the Tower. How can I help you?â€

~Faerzyne, MoN

Lavinya allowed herself to revel in the warmth at her side as she picked up her fork, taking a delicate mouthful and chewing thoughtfully. She really was partial to a well built man, one like Orion who was toned from many hours training. Light, the Warders Yard was simply busting with incredible masculine physiques, and Lavinya could not resist the opportunity to enjoy this particular one for a while, letting her pulse increase and her temperature rise in response to the handsome company pressed against her side.

Lifting her fork once more, she paused, hand in the air, as a movement under the table made her eyes open wide, shock lancing through her, only to be replaced with a slight tremor of pleasure as her thigh rested on top of Orion's, increasing the pressure and closeness, his words inciting her all the more. "Half way there sweet."

Shock fading, a broad smile of feminine satisfaction tugged at her full lips. "I have to say this food pales in comparison to how sweet your demonstration would be though." Lavinya chuckled at the brazen words, perhaps they sounded innocent to some, but she could sense the intimate meaning behind the words, words which were making her stomach churn in expectation.

"A demonstration? Indeed that does sound like an enticing prospect. I just hope I can live up to your expectations." She said with a smile, before taking another mouthful. Had she been asked, Lavinya would have had no idea what she ate, but she continued mechanically, her attention focused on Orion, the tangy masculine scent emanating from his person, his handsome profile, the exciting heat radiating from where they touched. Her nerve endings jangled, her skin tingled.

Pushing aside her plate, she waved for a re-fill for their glasses, lifting the intoxicating liquid to her lips for a deep pull before she leaned to whisper in Orion's ear, her lips lightly caressing the sensitive skin there. "A little more wine, then perhaps a taste of that demonstration?" She purred, her tongue flicking over her lower lip in anticipation, before lightly touching the curve of Orion's ear, grinning at herself as her head pulled back.

Again she drank deeply from her cup, the alcohol having its effect on her small, delicate frame, making her light headed. A rosy flush lit her cheeks, though whether it was from the wine or from the hand on her thigh she couldn't say, as her hand walked from Orions hand to lightly caress the thigh beneath her own. All thoughts of subtelty had fled, all she knew was that she was thoroughly enjoying herself, like she hadn't in some time, and that she wanted the man at her side, no needed. And she would have what she wanted.

"I'm finding it far too....crowded in here." She purred, fingering his thigh softly. "Perhaps you know of somewhere quieter where we can...talk?" The words rolled from her tongue, as though her mind had taken leave and her passions taken over, her breath catching for that moment as she awaited Orion's reaction - would he decline, or would she get that demonstration after all?

OOC: You are far too cheeky - I'm blaming you when I get into trouble from Estel

Happy birthday Jason! *gives him a big birthday smooch*

"I believe both of us are."The softly spoken words were not lost on Lavinya, her blood boiling in response to the barely veiled promise, the knowledge that he was enjoying this game as much as she. A slight shiver down her spine made her smile, a reaction from Orion's warm breath as it tickled her ear in a most intimate manner.

"I'll have the same." Lavinya cut in with a smile, not knowing what the usual was for Orion, but caring little what she ate, her mind diverted to the warm pressure on her thigh. She breathed deeply, smiling to herself as she revelled in the moment, let herself simply feel, be carried away with the sensations that were causing her nerves to hum.

"I'm not sure what I should do to thank you miss. You are proving very helpful with all these little hints for my rusty mind. Your generosity it seems, is only matched by your beauty." Lavinya chuckled, enjoying the compliment, finding it all the more amusing knowing it was his memory Orion relied upon, though truth be told she had aged very little since their first meeting.

"Perhaps another guess for starters, I beleive you were getting warmer with the food, though it does have something to do with children." Lavinya's eyes widened slightly, again understanding the full meaning behind the words, Orion's wicked grin concreting it anyway, should she have doubted.

Swirling her wine in her glass, Lavinya contemplated how to answer, findig herself enjoying the game more and more. "Involving children, you say?" She mused playfully, pausing to drink more of the wine. "You have aroused my curiosity, I must say." She purred, slightly accenting the word aroused.

"I was wrong about the childhood stories," she began, as though thinking out loud, slowly inching her chair closer to Orion's. "Yet it has something to do with children." Moving sideways on her seat slightly, she was suddenly pressed from knee to hip against Orion's side, her hand still keeping his upon her thigh. "I do believe I may need a thorough explanation of just what you have in mind...or rather," She paused, lowering her voice some and leaning a little closer to his ear. "a demonstration." Her voice was rich and lusty, her chuckle soft and throaty. This was a game she had long enjoyed, and was never one to refuse to step up to the challenge. And what a delightful challenge Orion was proving to be.

Oh yeah, forgot to mention Lavy is a weak channeller, something which causes her no little amount of annoyance.

Hmm...Sirayn hates Lavinya too...something to do with her promised or something....*whistles*

*Simply smirks at Jocelyn*

I put down my potential interest for this too...like Shan I haven't bonded before, though I find the whole instance of 'enforced bonding' something that would be wonderfully terrible for my character :)

Lavinya is a Gray, though she is about as far from your usual mediator as you can get. She is a Domani, with long fiery red hair, a wicked temper, and a roving eye for anything in pants - something which has gotten her into trouble with several Aes Sedai (yes, she has a habit of having flings with other people's promised's and warder). *gives Kael a pointed look*

She is terribly vain, arrogant, and fiesty...and would do her best to eat anyone who bonded her for breakfast...hence the interest in what would happen should she be forcibly bonded...she would chafe at the bit, and the loss of her independence...So it could be great fun!

It does depend on a few things though, more stating my potential interest. *Hopes for his sake Rion isn't found out* Now a clash between Jocelyn and someone bonded to Rion....that would be interesting

"I'm going to try to impress this on you before anyone else teaches you otherwise, don't call me sir, commander, or anything of the type. My name is Mehrin Deathwatch, but you can call me Mehrin."Kiarma barely restrained herself from scowling at the harsh tone, but fortunately held herself in check, the only change being a slight straightening of the spine. She didn't care who he was, any man who thought he could talk down to her soon learned not to. Thankfully though, he took her extended hand and shook it. At least he hadn't been trying to instill in her the need for proper respect for his position. He didn't appear overly arrogant, a welcome change in her opinion. Too many men thought themselves superior simply because of their sex. She liked to make it her mission to show them otherwise.

Another voice made her turn her head, spotting a blonde man with an arrogant swagger. Giving him the once oover, Kiarma instantly dismissed him as a pretty peacock. Mehrin saved her the need to introduce herself, naming her to the newcomer, Carnhain. "unless you wish to find yourself demoted to sergeant and forced into the Infantry, I'd recommend breaking that habit." The words brought a smile to Kiarma, liking the way he put the yound dandy in his place. She'd had many a man like this one think she was a pretty peach for the plucking, and had relished showing them just how a "pretty young thang" could protect herself.

Giving Carnhain a hard stare, she turned her green gaze back to Mehrin as he spoke once more, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword out of self-induced habit. "What brings you to our little corner of the world, Kiarma?" She couldn't help but grin, flicking her braid back over her shoulder. "I want to become a soldier, to train. I was a merchant's guard, but sadly training was lacking, especially for me being a woman." She gave the commander a hard stare, wondering if he would have the same misgivings about a woman soldier as her father. That would not do at all. "So I want to join the ranks." She announced firmly, as though daring him to deny her.

"I have few things in mind, though, I don't think my gentleman image would allow me tell those to you."Lavinya eyed Orion's hand, no shortage of surprise in her eyes as he connected with her leg, the warm presence of his palm lingering on her knee. A slow smile spread across her face, and a twinkle came to her dark eyes.

"Gentleman indeed?" She purred, humour abundant in the richness of her tone as she leaned forward, elbows resting on the table. One hand reached out to brush at some invisible lint on Orion's sleeve, before her fingers lightly trailed down to where his hand rested on her knee, idly skimming her fingers across the back of his hand. "I must say your gentlemanly image is already wavering." She chuckled, one fingernail caressing his hand.

Leaning forward further, Lavinya whispered in Orion's ear, her breath softly fanning his cheek. "Though your secret is safe with me." Her voice was low, throaty, as she lingered a moment, before sitting back slightly, using her free hand to lift the pewter goblet to her lips once more. She continued to lightly brush his hand as she considered him in silence, swirling the wine in her cup and smiling to herself.

"If you aren't going to tell me your ideas, perhaps I should guess them." She mused with a smile. Lifting the knee where Orion's hand rested, she crossed it over her other knee, her hand covering his to hold it in place as it slid slightly up her leg with the movement. Idly she kicked her foot back and forth as she toyed with his fingers lightly.

"Perhaps you plan to share amusing stories of your childhood." Lavinya continued, in the same light tone. "Or maybe you are going to gallantly buy me a meal, to go with the delightful wine." Waving to a serving lady, she had their cups refilled. "Am I getting warmer?" She purred, grinning with the thrill of the game.

~Lavinya

Pushing the Boundaries

Lavinya was the picture of Aes Sedai serenity as she waited on the docks for the party to arrive, though inside she broiled with impatience. She had delayed her own business for the task which had been presented to her, the least her companions could do was arrive in a timely manner.

The sunlight glinted off her red hair, setting fire to the curls tumbling down her back. Her eyes squinted against the light as she made out the ship in the distance, which should be carrying the rest of the party. At last. Straightening slightly, she smoothed her skirts over her hips, in preparation to greet her sisters. Her gray shawl was looped easily over through her elbows, and the silver of her great serpent ring glinted on her finger. There was no mistaking her identity.

The ship docked, and before long Lavinya found herself face to face with whom she presumed was a tower guard, though his bow seemed a little over the top to Lavinya. "Lavinya Sedai?"She nodded, though it was evident she was the only Aes Sedai who had been awaiting the arrival of the ship.

"I'm sorry Sheena Sedai, I think it must have slipped my mind when I was being instructed on my place at the beginning of our journey. Lavinya Sedai will be accompanying us, to give a much needed voice of diplomacy." Lavinya could almost smell the mischief emanating from the man. He had neglected to tell of her presence to Sheena Sedai? That could prove a very costly mistake, though Lavinya did not comment on it at present. Let Sheena take the boy to task. The very fact that there were tower guards acompanying them irritated Lavinya, though she let no sign show. She had survived thus far without need of a warder, why would she have need of the protection of a tower guard?

“Well? Move.â€Lavinya blinked, taking in the woman before her in a single glance. She spoke to her, in such a manner? Did either of them care to keep their posts with the guard? “You are acting as if we don’t have business to attend to… Aes Sedai.â€Lifting her chin ever so slightly, Lavinya looked straight past Rosheen's shoulder. Without sparing her a second glance, she strode past the rude woman haughtily, stopping before Sheena Sedai. Nodding as a younger sister to an elder, she greeted the woman.

"It appears you weren't forwarned of my accompanying you." She drawled wryly, ignoring the guards. "Though I do wish to offer what assistance I can, sister I have been informed of your task, and would happily join you, if you have no objections." Raising a brow in question, she waited for a sign of acceptance, before turning slightly. She nodded to Serena Sedai, hiding just how well she knew the woman, and her allegiance to the same sister as she. It would not do for their order to become public knowledge, least of which for what others may think. The wrath they would endure from Sirayn was enough to give her pause, and instill caution.

"Sheena Sedai, Serena Sedai, if you would accompany me, I will show you to my lodgings. We can acquire horses there, and any other supplies you believe we will need." Light, but it grated, bending her neck to any, let alone a woman who was not even of her Ajah. Yet what couldn't be changed could be endured, for a time at least. She was out of the tower, and would hopefully be given the opportunity to flex her skills gained as a sister of the gray, as a negotiator. If not...at least she was out of the tower. Thank the light for small mercies.

Leading the way, she glided past the guards, sparing a nod for Serena's gaidin. In her mind a warder was a step up from a tower guard at least. Especially tower guards that had been thrust upon unwilling sisters.

The walk to the inn was quick, and soon enough the party was outfitted with the necessities, horses and food, enough to see them through the majority of the journey. Changed into a blue dress of fine wool, divided for riding, Lavinya stood by her own mount, doing her best to ignore the mowhawked woman supposedly assigned to her protection. As if it was not insulting enough to think she needed guarding, giving her a woman to do the job was down right ludicrous! She would not endure the indignity contentedly. If it came to it, she would not hesitate to remind the rough looking woman of her place. Burn her, but this trip had better not prove itself as trying as what she feared it may become.

*Gets up on the soapbox* Hear ye Hear ye! I declare this bio to be of a fit standard and give it my approval! *thunderous applause*

*Wonders just how James managed to brainwash Ellorian into siding with him on anything* Kinda like being hit with a truck...him being a gimp I'm used to, him being backed up...well shocking to say the least

:shock: You've never seen Monkey Magic? Blasphemy!

*quietly and discreetly smites James*

*refuses to bite* Though god knows I want to....schmuck....*mutters under her breath*

Hey...this whitey just CC'd your bio Welcome by the way. And please note that James in no way represents the average Australian...I will not be tarred with his brush :)

*makes Satine run past in her sparkly pants*

I'm assuming there was a lot of dry leaves and that fire was pretty darned hot....CC'd

“I…have a note from…Shaneevae Sedai. I am here…to become a…a…a novice.†Faerzyne's unblinking gaze stayed on the girl as she waited for the note. Finally seeming to remember herself, the girl moved, fishing out the note and handing it tentatively towards Faerzyne. A slight curve which could have been a smile touched her lips, as she waved Ellinielle to a chair. "Sit child." She invited as she opened the brief missive.

Scanning the page quickly, she refolded it an placed it on her desk. "So you have already been tested, I see." She raised a brow as Ellinielle nodded. "Well then, we should see about making your stay more permanent then." She smiled then, before opening the large book on her desk once more, the book of novices.

"Could you please tell me your name once more, your age and your place of raising." Holding a pen poised overthe paper, she copied down the information as the girl recited, each curve and flourish tying the girl more securely to the tower. When she was done, she lowered the pen, and wove air briefly to dry the ink, before closing the book with a thump. Another note was penned, and Faerzyne rose to deliver it to a passing novice, before turning to the cupboard against the wall.

Two dresses in white were withdrawn, and she handed them to Ellinielle. "These are yours now child, you are to keep them clean and well mended at all times." She toned, before seating herself once more. "I have asked for someone to join us, another whom shall mentor you, teach you." Faerzyne proceeded to inform Ellinielle of the rules, curfew, classes, chores, and the Warder's Yards, as they waited for her mentor to arrive.

“Blood and bloody ashes, it do be typical of that idiot.†Dorian found Yrean's outburst somewhat amusing, and gave him a questioning look. “It do be bad when drink be having such a hold on a person.†Dorian pulled a face. He still enjoyed the occasional ale when he could, though he always limited himself. Thanks to Yrean and Andular, and his subsequent city survival training, Dorian found he wasn't much inclined to drunkenness.

Dorian quietly followed his mentor, collecting his weapon and listening intently as they fought their way through the crowd. Stopping, Dorian looked at the man Yrean pointed out, a quizzical expression on his face as he tried to determine just why it would be odd for him to have muddy boots. Most people in the square had muddy boots.

“He do be rich, he be a Lord, so why do he be walking through mud? It do be that that be interesting me.†Dorian mulled over the comment as they continued, and began studying people a lot closer, intrigued. He'd never stopped to consider such subtleties as muddy boots before. What else had he been blundering and missing, because he thought things were beneath his notice?

They reached the North Gate, and Dorian was forced to endure some good natured stirring, which he did with a good humour, finding himself slowly becoming accustomed to that sort of thing, thanks mostly to the strange humour he was exposed to from Yrean.

Taking a place on the wall, Dorian set himself up so that he would be able to see anyone entering the city through the gate, still mulling over what Yrean told him. Several people entered, and though he watched them closely, he could find nothing unusual about them, leading him to worry that perhaps he still was missing the important subtleties, until one man caught his eye. He straightened, studying the man, not sure what was wrong, but knowing something was not right. The man limped closer to the gate, and it struck Dorian like lightening.

The man limped heavily, dragging his left foot slightly with each step. He paused to talk to a companion, then walked on, suddenly dragging his right foot, causing Dorian to grin. "Yrean," he called softly to where his mentor stood. "I'd keep an eye on that man there, he seems undecided as to which leg is injured." Quite pleased with himself, Dorian turned back to the seemingly endless flow of traffic.

It wasn't much longer before another character caught his eye, his extravagent red cloak flapping behind him as he walked. His coat was embroidered, though it appeared somewhat stained, but it was his boots that gave Dorian pause. Unlike the rest of his finery, his boots were old and worn, certainly not boots common for a wealthy man. Dorian pointed out what he saw to Yrean. "May be nothing, perhaps he doesn't care for his feet." He shrugged. "But it seems odd to me."

Accepting Yrean's praise with a nod, Dorian turned once more to the line of people coming and going, eyes alight with the thrill of discovering something new. Time passed with nothing more out of the ordinary that Dorian could see, and he stretched, walking along the wall at times to help breakup the day, keep him alert and focused, lest he grow weary and less observant.

Some time after the well dressed man, Dorian stood and shifted, stifling a yawn as he stretched his arm over his head, when a woman caught his eye. She was attractive, to be sure, but that was not what made him look twice. It was the fact that she walked alone. She was well dressed, a small amount of embroidery visible from his vantage point, though not enough to label her a noble. Minor noble perhaps, or a merchant. Yet why was she alone?

Pointing her out to Yrean, he tapped his chin thoughtfully. "She seems to well off to be travelling alone." He mused, pointing out the dust on her skirts. "I don't know if she means trouble, but I don't suppose it is a particularly normal sight, unless she is Aes Sedai." He shrugged as she stepped into the Gate's shadow. "I couldn't see a great serpent ring though, and she didn't seem ageless to me."

No issues in the eyes of the WT...she could well have had such little ability she was put out for failing to learn to reach the source on her own...so CC'd :D

“You are a most interesting woman I assure you Lavinya.â€Lavinya smiled to herself faintly, pleased he had remembered her request in leaving off the honourific. It was strange, the more time she spent in Corin's company, the more relaxed and intrigued she became. Craziness really, considering this was her first acquaintance with him, yet something tugged at her, led her to know more, to not take her leave of him just yet. And it was more than a physical attraction, though that was there, indeed it was something she was finding she was unable and unwilling to ignore. It was almost as though they were connecting on another level, his conversation serving to ensnare her as surely as the glint in his emerald eyes. Still more than that, it was such a relief to find a man who saw beyond the shawl and ring, even if only momentarily. After all, she was Aes Sedai, and he was sworn to the guard, yet his words, his actions, spoke to a place inside Lavinya that no one had found, since before she became an initiate at the tower. He was actually willing, interested to see the woman she was beneath her gift, and that was resulting in a severe reluctance to break the spell she found herself in.

Again he spoke, the meaning behind his words revealing just how at ease he seemed to be. The shrewdness inside of her congratulated itself on her success, at managing to dodge around his defences, though she had no desire to take advantage of the position. She blinked, surprised at her silent admission. For once she was not being the scheming, power hungry Aes Sedai she had become, she was simply enjoying the moment. Disbelief at her own thoughts brought another twinge to her lips, as her eyes flicked to Corin, warm against her side. Would he believe her, if she shared what she thought? Doubtful, regardless of how relaxed he appeared. There were some stigma's she was likely never to escape, even momentarily.

They paused, and Lavinya found herself once more face to face with the man who was revealing the woman that had been well-hidden for years. How was he doing that? His gaze was warm, and Lavinya found she was unable to look away, his words lingering on the edge of her conscious as the softness of the rose in his hand caressed her cheek once more, her stomach clenching in anticipation, longing. “nature’s raw beauty came be overwhelming.â€A blush rose in her cheeks as she captured his meaning, delighted at the compliment, even as she mentally urged his mouth closer to her own, so she could pay him her own compliment. Her eyelids fluttered gently, her lips parting of their own accord as his head dipped towards hers, warmth already blooming across her skin in anticipation of the caress. Her heart pounded, she wanted him to kiss her, wanted to lose herself in his embrace, to think of nothing else but pleasure...

She ducked instinctively, though as her eyes once more caught Corin's she mentally cursed the bird for dispersing the spell once more. He laughed, a deep rumble that seemed to tingle along her spine, but the fog that had enshrouded them was gone, obvious in the way he avoided her gaze. Lowering her gaze, she veiled the disappointment she felt, even as she berated herself for it. She was a woman of the world, one who was accustomed to taking her own life and fate into her hands, so why was she hanging so much on the kiss of a man she barely knew? If it was mere physical closeness she desired, she knew she could find it elsewhere, or indeed, she could convince Corin easily, if she wanted to - she had knowledge enough on how to manipulate a man for her own ends - yet she couldn't bring herself to do so to Corin. She wanted his kiss, his touch, indeed she felt as though she craved it - yet she wanted it freely given, not drawn out through sly actions and depraved techniques. But the question was, why?

Nodding almost absently, Lavinya returned Corin's smile, deliberately avoiding the question in her mind as they continued down the path, the warmth of his hand on hers confusing her all the more. Clearly he fought with himself, for a reason she did not know, but why did it bother her? Why did she want his surrender? Why did she want to confess all of her secrets to him? Why did she not just reach out and take what she sought? She knew the answer, yet stubbornly refused to acknowledge it, scared of what it would be, of what it meant about her, about her vulnerabilities. The thought was almost ludicrous, her being vulnerable, yet she knew she was, and Corin was unwittingly showing her just how much.

Twirling the rose between her fingers, she lifted the bud to her nose, inhaling the pungent perfume as she tried to rein in her wayward thoughts, bringing them to the present, to more pleasant matters, as Corin continued to speak, his voice light, yet still he avoided her gaze. Hiding the fact that she had noticed anything out of the ordinary, Lavinya bounced the rosebud lightly against her lips as she contemplated how to answer. “Sometimes it feels to me as though I live, eat and breathe politics.†She replied with a small smile as she led him beneath the shade of a large oak, seating herself upon the bench beneath its expansive branches, and offering him a place beside her with a casual wave of her hand, suddenly cooler now it was no longer beneath his. “As a child I was taught much, and that education continued upon joining the tower. Even the most uneducated girl can enter the tower, and leave it practically a scholar.†Absently she eyed the stem between her fingers, spinning it gently, surpressing the urge to confess her darkest deeds and secrets. What was it about Corin that made her want to open herself? She knew it was the simple way in which he accepted her words, saw the hidden meanings behind her sentences, and simply asked for more. He wasn’t questioning, judging, at least for her ears, and the change from the usual baited and barbed conversations she was party to was most overwhelming. Was that what it was like to have a true friend? It was sad, thinking that she didn’t know. She had found no need for friends past her novice days, and it appeared at long last her soul was crying out for a companion.

“The class I teach is a broad subject, though I teach only the most basic details to the novices under my charge. To try and explain the full extent of the delicate relations the Tower holds would be a lengthy class indeed, and one that ever changed. As a Gray, I endeavour to keep a finger on the pulse, so to say, along with my sisters. The role of mediator is easier when one is as fully informed of the situation as possible.†Her eyes flicked sideways, taking in his profile from beneath her lashes. Whatever restraint he was holding himself with, she longed to tear it down, to make him simply feel, to let them both forget about the strictures of their reality and lose themselves in even the briefest moment of freedom and simplicity. Would that ever be possible? Would anyone ever see the woman behind the Great Serpent Ring, the Shawl? Or would glimpses be the only memory of what she once was?

She saw his eyes on the rose, watching as her fingers lightly stroked the soft velvet of the petals. Her skin pebbled at the memory of how he had brushed the flower against her earlier. They were secluded, deep in the gardens now; only the most determined of pursuers would be witness to their meeting now. Did he fear being seen? Or was he afraid of losing the control which he seemed to display now? Curiosity caused her to lift the rose, idly stroking the petals across the skin at the back of Corin’s hand, wondering if she could illicit the same response from him that she had given earlier. A soft smile curved her full lips as she saw the subtle reaction, glorying in it, revelling in it. Instinct told her he reacted to the woman beside him, not the Aes Sedai.

Lifting her head, Lavinya caught his gaze, searching, wanting…what? Unbidden, her hand lifted, brushing a stray lock of hair back from his brow as she lost herself in the tumultuous storm that was his gaze. Her breath caught and her pulse quickened. She wanted to be close, wanted his touch…wanted to forget. She did not notice the way her hand trembled slightly as it brushed his cheek, the shape of his jaw. Already she could taste him, feel the pressure of his lips on hers. Yet she did not want to steal, she did not want to manipulate. Not this time. She wanted what his eyes promised, yes, but she wanted it freely given. Almost abruptly she lowered her hand, her lashes lowering to veil her eyes, her thoughts.

She turned her head, studying the shadowy pattern on the grass as the leaves were gently swayed by the breeze. “Many Novices, and even Accepted, contemplated, and even attempted escaping the Tower.†She murmured, catching a glimpse of the shining white spire above the tree-tops. “I never once considered leaving all that I was, all that I am...until after I attained the shawl.†Lavinya’s voice was soft, as though she merely thought out loud, had forgotten Corin’s presence. His warmth beside her beckoned, and Lavinya longed to close her eyes and fall into his embrace, to forget, to escape. Would that ever be possible? Or did she dream with a fool’s hope?

~Lavinya

Losing her Mind...?

Lavinya struggled to maintain a semblance of composure, on the outward at least. Inside a conflictof emotions and confusion roiled like a raging sea. She was on trial? She had come so far, endured so much to attain the shawl, and now she had to fight to prove herself yet again? Did the Creator have no mercy?

“I stand here before you today with only one goal. One purpose. And that is to make you see that this… child is in no way suited to join our ranks.†Lavinya bristled. The faces before her gave no hint of anything, no clue as to what was in store. Something inside Lavinya became resigned. It appeared there would never be an end to proving herself worthy. Never an end to her struggle. Images of the previous night filtered to mind, but she hastily pushed them aside. Thoughts of Nuitari just brought more pain and confusion, and she would not give in to them. She was stronger than that, had to be.

“What do you have to say for yourself?†Pausing, Lavinya considered before answering. Something told her that regardless of her answer, what was to come would come. And she would face it with the same determination she faced everything else. Light, all she had left now was that shawl, folded neatly on Phaedra's lap. She would not let it go without a fight.

"I am the first to admit I am not without sins." She toned, clearly and with as much confidence as she could muster, her eyes locked on her persecutor. "Yet everything that has happened in my past has led me to this moment. I have fought, every inch of the way, to attain that shawl. I have earnt my place among you." She fell silent once more, clasping her hands before you to prevent them from shaking. She would get that shawl back, whatever came her way.