He seemed almost angry at her. "You really have no idea, do you?" No idea of what? She had a few ideas as to what could be going on, but so much was going on, she would believe anything, and no idea was out of the picture. She frowned at him, shaking her head, and he rose from the desk, walking to the closet. "Let me show you something." She watched as he took out her cloak and suddenly, the water slid off of it and onto the floor. What in the light? It had to be a magic trick of some sort! He tossed it and she caught it, holding it in her hands. Why did she have the strange feeling that one of the things she wanted to study and learn about was his secret? She was afraid to ask, but could he channel? The pins on his jacket, the dark clothes, the secrets, the fight, her cloak... was he a channeller?

"You've heard of the Lord Dragon's procalmation and Amnesty for male channelers?" She looked up from her thoughts and nodded. Oh light, he was a channeller. Her heart leaped, and she half wanted to jump up and down, half wanted to kiss him. Light, she was related to a channeller! That had to be the coolest thing ever! Adawyn had been raised to be very open minded to different ideas and situations, and this was one of them. She wanted to know more and learn... light, a real channeller! “Well you could say I'm one of them. Well, to be exact I AM one of them. A male channeler." She opened her mouth to tell him it was amazing and to start asking questions. She wanted to know it all.

He cut her off, and she let him speak. Perhaps her questions would all be answered as he spoke. "These two pins denote my rank of Asha'man. Sort of a male version of Aes Sedai, except we don't go around manipulating people to suit our needs." She figured that they had meant something, as he had mentioned them before during the fight. Nodding her head in understanding, she kept her mouth shut. "As for how I ever wound up under the Lord Dragon....well I'd better first explain what happened on our way to meet your those years ago." She nodded and sat back, listening to his story.

He continued on, and she listened. Light, the poor thing. Her father and Adawyn had been hoping that they had only been held back by something that was other than death, but they had always known that there was some horrid reason they had never appeared. To think that they were attacked... She was certainly glad that she had found him, and she understood why he hadnt come to find them. He didnt even know... light, at least they were together again. Family was everything- she learned that after losing her mother and regaining her father. Sad thing was, with time, her father had forgotten that she was his daughter, and treated her more like a business partner. That was what the marriage was... a business move. He would gain an heir for when he died, and she knew that in her heart, her mother would have wanted her to be as free as she wanted.

Covai was still standing, and he leaned against the door. He seemed so angry and so hateful, and she pitied him for a moment, but the more she watched him, the more she understood he didnt want to be pitied. That was certainly a family trait- they all had too much pride to ever pity themselves and would never receive pity. They were tough and would fight back no matter what- it was in the blood. If she was him, she would certainly still be angry. Of course, as a young lady, vengence wasnt something she should be thinking of, but that was why she ran away: so that she didnt have to be a young lady.

“So there you have it. I'm a member of the Black Tower, and a fairly high ranking one at that, despite how I may look. I've even had the honour of meeting the Lord Dragon in person." A smile slipped across her face. The Lord Dragon himself? Well, her cousin was no fool, and if he said that he was indeed the Dragon Reborn, then she would believe him. And high ranking... she could learn anything she wanted to know! "So, should I continue, or would you prefer me to leave now?" Her mouth dropped wide open. Leave? No way!

“Covai! You are amazing! You have a great power! Of course I don’t want you to leave. I want to know all about it, and I want to learn!†She hushed her voice and ran up to him, giving him a big hug in excitement. He stood still, watching her. “You have no idea how much I want to know! Don’t leave, you are family, and I wont lose you again. Can I come with you there? Can I meet HIM?†He put his hand over her mouth. “Teach me!†she said as he let her speak again. “I want to know it all!â€

Walking back to the mirror, Deneira ran her hand through her hair. He would be there any minute, and she wanted to be perfect. She kept fidgiting with the curls, and she was afraid her body was shaking with nervousness. She took a little more of the lip stuff and pouted it onto her lips, then smiled at herself in the mirror. A knock came at the door, and she turned to look at it. Light, he was here. She swallowed, then ran to the door. Her hand rested on the lock, and she smiled to herself. Light, her heart was racing. She had been waiting for tonight for so long. She turned the lock, then slowly turned the doorknob. It opened, and there he stood. Her heart stopped, and her breath caught in her throat as she looked at him. “Hey,†she managed to whisper. He looked all cleaned up, and even smelled pretty good. His clothes looked new, and he was smiling. â€Hello!†he replied, and she smiled back at him. His arm was behind his back, and she asked him what it was. â€I brought you these...â€

Deneira had to hold back the tears as she saw what was in his hand. Flowers! She had never before gotten flowers from anyone, and one of her hands went to her mouth as she gasped. Light! Her hand, shaking, reached out to take the flowers, and he leaned forward to leave a kiss on her cheek. “Shawn... thank you!†She took his hand with her free hand, and pulled him into the room. Finding a cup, she set the flowers in them, and smiled to him. “We will have to find some water later. Thank you so much.†She had turned back to him and he was pulling her to him. She raised her hand up to his cheek, lightly tracing his jaw, and stared into his eyes. “I’ve never gotten flowers before...â€

Their lips touched, and she kissed him whole heartedly, trying to hold back everything she wanted to put into it. He kissed her back and held her close to him. After a few minutes, they both slowly pulled away from it, somewhat sorrowful. She wished she could stay in that kiss forever. They both wanted it, and she needed him so bad. She almost asked him if he wanted her then, but she was determined to make this night better than five minutes of passion. She wanted a night to remember, where romance was present, and she knew that he truly cared about her more than anything else. â€I think we should go now†he whispered to her, and she nodded in reply. “We should...†Her lips went forward and kissed his again, ever so softly, almost caressing this time.

This time, when they pulled away, they both wore smiles. Running over to the small wardrobe, she pulled out her black cloak. Pulling it on and tying the top, she took the hand he offered out to her. He led her from the room, and she shut and locked it behind her. He was so dashing and handsome, and every person they passed stared at them in surprise. Oh, if only her father could see her now. She felt perfect, and they fit together perfectly. Their fingers were linked with each other, and their hands were almost puzzle pieces. She had learned that about hands. Everyone’s hands were puzzle pieces. You just had to find the person that had the matching piece. In Shawn, she had found the matching piece, and she liked that. They got out of the yards, and were into the city. “So, where are we off to this evening?†she asked.

Deneira l'Spada

*laughs* i figured that. i had the same problem, until James almost kicked me, telling me to check again... i was wrong ;)

oh. and head over to the WT! i would LOVE to channel at you... *thinks about a bonding weave* ;) what? so im a green!

He stared at her for a few minutes, and she glanced away, afraid of what he was thinking. Light, what kind of question was that? He had to think her to be the most boring Tower Guard in the yard. Light... what was she supposed to do now? She waited, and he finally spoke, “Fine.†He seemed mad almost, or at least... confused. “Everything has been going well. As for trainees, I’m not sure. It’s not my place to watch over them, really. Just keep them on the right path when training.†She smiled at him, and nodded in acknoledgement, and he settled back in his bath, ignoring her.

His body was covered with some weird scars. They werent normal... they looked like he had been burned, and some of the others looked like a beating, almost. What secrets did this man hold? “That scar on your chest…what was that from?†She mentally smacked herself. Light, she shouldnt have said anything. Had she hit a cord with that? She should have been quiet. He looked down at the burn mark, then looked off into the air.

“It was from…†She wanted to stop him, and tell him he didnt have to tell her. She didnt want him to tell her if he didnt want to talk about it. “It was from Tear.†Tear... she knew that no Aes Sedai was ever welcomed there. A warder... light, this story could not be good. “When I was younger, almost your age, I traveled to Tear with friends and my Bondmate.†He was silent, and she watched him. He seemed to be in his own world. “And the Children of Light were there. They found me and…questioned me.†Light, he had been beaten. The Children of the Light would have killed him if they could of. She knew he was hurt, and she wanted to cry for him. She had no idea...

He suddenly snapped back to himself as a cinder popped in the fire, and he shook his head, pain in his eyes. â€It’s nothing know.†She wouldnt believe that for a moment. It was most certainly something, and it wasnt good. She pitied him, and immediately tried to think of something that would make him laugh. “Well, I have a story too. Do you remember about three years ago, when Ginae’s hair was dyed blue?†He nodded. Of course he remembered. It was one of the greatest pranks over the past five years. “Well, of course she blamed Aran, because he was with her at breakfast, and was mad at her for some Aes Sedai training or something like that. Thing is, Aran had an accomplice!†Alriand smiled. “For a bottle of spirits, I helped him drug her and was the one that dyed her hair.†Alriand started laughing. Good, that was the point.

“Aran and I were friends after that. I wanted to have some fun, and most of his pranks required an accomplice. Of course, I returned the favor. Lyv, you know her, right?†Alriand nodded. Of course he did, she was a GrandMaster, even though Deneira forgot that on occasion. “Well, she remembered the prank, and knew that I had helped him. You know how the two of them were running around blue for a few weeks?†This instance had happened only a few months before. “Lyv and I had poured dye all over him, and then she fell on to him, which resulted in her becoming blue also. Lets just say, I like to color.†She winked at him, and he laughed again. Setting back, she smiled to herself, proud that he had left his solemn mood, and that everything seemed to be lightened. She didnt know what to say next, so she relaxed back in her tub.

Silence came over them for a while, and she got an idea on how to make him laugh. Jumping out of the tub, she heard him cough as she ran over to the towels, naked and dripping with water, and picked one of them up. Wrapping it around herself, she went back to him, the other one, which was his, in hand. “What would you do if I dropped this in the water?†He made some comment, and she went over to her tub. While standing at his, she had taken a few looks into it, and had liked what she had seen. She was certain that experience had also helped him. Leaning on her tub, she held his towel above it then, smiling, dropped it in. “What are you going to do now, GrandMaster?†Her eyes twinkled, and she was ready to fight for her towel.

He looked at her in shock for a few minutes, and then looked her over. She was about to start shaking, she was so nervous. Just the way he held himself... it was certainly a family trait. Her father always did that twitch in his lips, and the way his eyes searched her... it truly was almost like watching a younger version of her father. She glanced away, afraid of his glances, and he suddenly looked away, and she looked up to see serving girl put the meal on the table. He took a piece of the bread, and then beckoned Adawyn to take a piece. She actually hadn’t eaten much that day, so the thought of the bread was wonderful. She reached out and broke off a piece of it. Happily, she put a piece of it into her mouth, enjoying the warmth, especially after how cold and wet she was.

“So tell me, Adawyn, what was your father’s name?†Adawyn swallowed the bread, and said, “My father’s name is Edwin Seriba.†He nodded his head, and she took another bite of the bread in her hands. “Fair enough. Tell me then….†He looked over her head, and she turned to look at the men he nodded to. “…they friends of yours?†Taking one look at the men, she turned back around, her arms crossed, sighing. Honestly, could she ever escape men? She was sick of men being all over her, and always bothering. Didn’t they know, she had a brain? Did they not know that she was a person too? Men... what a bother they were.

She stared at Covai, and saw him watching the men. She really didn’t have time for this. “So how’s about you leaving this fella and coming with us for a bit, eh?†She felt the man behind her as he leaned on the table, and Adawyn put a smile on her face, turning to him. They were rather drunk, and only her training in dealing with drunks kept her from cringing at the smell. “Yeah, that’s right, two’s better then one, ain’t it sweetie?†Right... only when men were working. Other than that, two men were always just a bother. She glanced at him, holding back a grimace, and turned back to them to speak.

“Well there’s no use arguing the finer point of logic with an idiot is there? They’ll just drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.†How often had her father told her that? Too many times to count. The man closer to her, the bigger one, seemed to be a lot angrier than the other one, who hadn’t gotten the joke. Clearly, her point was being proven.

â€What’d you say?†Light... didn’t these men get it? Honestly, men thought that no was yes, and yes was please. She hoped she didn’t have to punch someone for them to get the point... her cousin might just think she had gone crazy. "She said because of your presence here-“ Adawyn cut off Covai, using another of his phrases. “Some village is missing its idiot." She heard the phrase stated at the same time as her, and she took a glance at Covai. This was really getting to be weird.

Finally, the drunks got the idea that she was not, and would never be, interested in lowlife men like them. She was about to punch one of them as they walked up to her, but were held back, their hands still in midair. What in the light? Covai stood behind her, and she watched him punch the tall man, then showed his sword to the other, who paused for a moment. Adawyn was scared. Something was wrong, and she didn’t know what. She just stood there, waiting, not knowing what to do and when to move.

Everything around them was still and calm, and Covai spoke to the men, his voice almost echoing to the room. "You two listen to me. See these?†Covai pointed to two pins on his collar. "Do you know what these are? These mean I could kill the both of you before you could even blink. Now, I will give you both one chance. Turn around, walk away, and don't ever, ever come back here again, or bother anybody while they're in the middle of a conversation. Do you understand me?" They nodded and walked away, and Adawyn sat there in shock as he sat back down beside her. Who was this man, and what was the power that had held back the two men. She had so many unanswered questions, and she still had no idea what was going on.

He was half smiling at her, trying to make light of the situation as things regained normalcy. "Guess that probably wasn't the most assuring performance, was it?" She smiled at him, and nodded, just a tad worried. What had just happened there, something wasn’t right, and it had to do with Covai. She had to know the truth. “I’m used to the comments, but the fight wasn’t exactly what i see every day...†She looked around, then stood, brushing off her skirts, and returning the hood on her cloak up. “Come with me, please. I think we both know that we are indeed cousins, and I have much to ask you, and this room might not be the best place to ask them.â€

He nodded and rose, and she silently walked up the stairs, leaving a few coins on the table to take care of his meal. He followed behind her, and she led him down the hallway, and into her room. He paused for a moment, as if not sure whether or not to enter, but she grabbed the sleeve of his shirt and pulled him into the room. “Don’t be such a baby!†she said to him as he came in. “Honestly, you are my cousin, not my lover, and no one else out here has any business knowing what is going on.†He nodded his head, and she shut and locked the door behind him. Taking a blanket from off the bed, she pushed it up against the door, sealing the crack under the door to keep open ears away. He watched her, and she pointed to the desk where a chair was. “Sit, please.†He did so, and her fingers went to the strings on her cloak, unlacing them. She slipped it off, shaking out her hair and brushing off her skirts.

Going to the closet, she hung it up, sighing at how wet it was. That was her only cloak too... she would have to get another one as soon as she was settled in somewhere... if she was settled in. Turning back to him, she brushed her fingers through her hair, and sat at a spare chair. Placing her hands on her lap, she smiled. “Wow, this is so weird. We never knew what happened to you two, and we were waiting for ages, so father just went ahead with the plans, but... light, tell me about yourself! How have you been these past years?†But Covai shook his head, almost confused. “Plans? What plans? You had better talk first.†She was confused, but she began talking anyways.

“Well, father was a merchant until mother died- I was twelve at the time- and then my father and your father were going to build an inn, and you and I would grow up together, since you were just a few years older than me. Well, since you never showed, father went ahead with the plans. It was successful, and I have worked there since the beginning. I am really good at it, and I know a lot about different cultures and customs. I also know a lot about finances and how to manage a business. I guess I just learned a lot after all of these years. Well, he wanted me to settle down, and there was no way I would do that, so I ran away. I will not marry, at least, until I want to, and I still want to learn about things and see things and have adventures.†He nodded his head, and she smiled. “Ok, I talked, now it is your turn... and include about what happened down there, because I am still a bit confused.â€

Heading back to her room, Deneira was so excited. She couldn’t believe what was going to happen that night. Light, she felt like she could fly. Getting back to her room, she set all of her packages on her bed, then set about a bath. Shawn came into the room, and she ran up to him, kissing him softly as his arms opened up to her. He held her close, and she rested her head on his shoulder for a moment. “How was your first day?†she asked. He smiled, and told her that it was fine. She laughed again, then took his hand, leading him into the room more. “I have so much to show you, but I fear, my good friend, that you need to gather your things and go somewhere else until I am ready.†He smiled, and she smiled back, kissing him once again, this time receiving a very happy reply. He held her close to him for a moment, and she almost didn’t want to go. Light, this date would be perfect! He finally let go of her, and then gathered up his things. “I will talk to you soon,†she whispered, and watched him leave the room. Locking the door behind him, she set about getting ready.

Setting out all of her things across her bed, she smiled to herself, then set about the bath. Relaxing in the bath, she set about scrubbing every inch of her body and washed her hair till it shined. She thoroughly enjoyed it, then dried her body off with a nice towel. Her hair she put up in the towel, then looked at the clothing she had before her. Pulling on her undergarments, she soon stood in a shift, and let down her hair. Rubbing out the rest of the dampness in it, she pulled the dress on, and smiled at herself in the mirror. Somehow, she got all of the buttons correct and pulled the laces together to make it fit well. Her bosom appeared more obvious, and she smiled.

The necklace and her ring she slipped on, then turned to the cosmetics. Now what was she supposed to do again? She powdered her face lightly, then grabbed the red stuff. What was it again... rouge? She applied it on her cheeks lightly, then picked up the sparkly stuff. It was another powder, but for her eyes. She applied it lightly, afraid to put too much, then turned to look at the weird bottle with the brush. Her eye lashes... she was supposed to put it on her eyelashes. Trying, she poked her eye once, and got a little on her cheek, but she rubbed the mess out and finally got it right. The last bit was sort of like lipstick, yet it was shiny. It was almost an oil, but firmer than a liquid. It was clear, and she spread it on her lips, then looked at herself in the mirror. Wow... she hardly even knew it was herself in the mirror. She just hoped that Shawn liked it, because it was a whole lot of bother to go through if he didn’t like it.

Her hair was all that was left to do. It was already turning into curls and waves, and she played with it for a few moments before grabbing a couple of hair pins and lifting the front pieces and placing them back. She then took the decorative pins and placed them in her hair. Smiling to herself, her heart fluttered, and she went to the door, unlocking it. Sitting down at her desk, she stared at her hand, twisting the ring around it. She had gotten the ring ages before, just because it was pretty and cheep. It was on her right ring finger, and she glanced at her marriage finger. Things were so confusing with Shawn.

She was always so confused. She cared about him so much, and would do anything to make him happy. At the same time, he fulfilled her in all he did. The strange part was, they had never slept together intimately, and when she had offered it to him before, he had denied her three times. Well, tonight was the night. She was going to offer herself to him again, so that he could own her body along with her mind. He most certainly owned her mind. All she ever thought of was him. It was odd that he would keep hold of her thoughts, but he had. Never before, not like this, had a man so controlled her thoughts. He probably had no idea, too.

But her heart... her heart and soul was the hard part. She cared about him, more than anything else. But did she love him? That was a hard thing to answer. What was love, really? She had no idea, and she wasn’t afraid to admit it. Yes, she certainly did like him, but love... she just didn’t know. She was almost afraid to love him, but was also afraid of if she did not. But how did he feel about her? No matter, she would worry about that another night. Tonight was just about them being together, and being happy. She just had to wait for him to come for her.

*pets the other staffers* and people ask me why i love being on gaidin staff... cause its so mellow, and everyone is fun!

well, no. not everyone is fun. the squirrels are not fun. nor the bunnies. damn the bunnies...

*sits there for a moment, thinking*

oooooooOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooooooo

hey you! long time, no talk!

hows it been, Rion? good lord, it has been a long time since we have talked. *hugs an old friend*

no worries, im not doing anything wrong, just trying to keep up with the crazies ;)

*eats a brownie* i dont think its odd. i think its fine. everyone is insane anyways, so what is really odd in a group of crazys?

*looks around for someone that got that, and eats another brownie*

*ggls* i know, the BoE thread is awesome! i wanted to title it Blades of Evil, but I dont think some people would have been happy... man, this bites! ;)

oh, now thats no fun! i am in it for the chase, not the score! *pouts*

Covai, hurt him please!

A bag in her hands, Adawyn ran down the street, ready to get in from the rain and into a nice hot bath. The door of the inn was opened from inside by a boy, and she flashed him a thankful smile. “Thank you, child.†He grinned at her, and she bent down, pressing a gentle kiss to his cheek. “If you do that for all the young ladies, all of us older ladies wont have a chance with you.†She winked at him, and he moved back, allowing her to enter as much as she pleased. Shaking out the lower part of her cloak, she sighed, regretting wearing her nice red slippers. She should have known better on a day with dark clouds, but she had wanted to wear the nice shoes because they went so nicely with the red dress she wore. It was one of her favorites, the neckline low, yet still modest, and her curves were accentuated. She walked up to the woman sitting behind the counter and asked if she had recieved any messages. The woman checked, and she had none. Thank goodness, that meant her father hadnt found her yet. She liked Caemlyn and didnt want to move on yet.

Her hands went up to the hood of her cloak as she was about to set it down in order to allow her hair freedom, but a voice called out shocked her. “Covai Seriba! Where have you been?†Her head whipped around to the voice, and she saw two men. Slipping from her spot, she moved to stand behind a pillar, watching the two men. One left, leaving the one called ‘Covai’ by himself. Adawyn’s heart was racing. What was going on? Her family name was rare, and the fact that he had the same first name, same facial features, and the same age that belonged to her cousin was a bit of a shock to her. The man was sitting by himself, and she wrapped her arms across her chest. She was all alone in a big city, and she knew no one. Should she trust him and put herself out to him? She just didnt know what to do.

She turned to the innkeeper, who was a few steps away, and looked up from the floor to look into his eyes. “Who is that man over there?†she asked, acknowledging ‘Covai Seriba.’ He looked a little wary, and her small hand slipped out of her brown cloak, pressing a few silver crowns into his hand. “I must know who he is.†The man nodded, and beckoned her to the corner. â€He comes here on occasion, and is always dressed in black. He also knows many of us in the tavern business around Caemlyn. He is a private man, and I know no more than that.†She nodded her head, and turned back to look at the man. He had a glass of ale in his hand, and he was watching the gleeman in the corner. She had to know.

Walking forward, Adawyn had to remind herself to breathe. Light, what was she doing... she didnt know the man, and just because she had the same name as he did was no reason to believe that they were related. She was all alone in the world now... she would never return to be with her father. She knew that eventually, he would make her marry and then leave her the inn, and that wasnt the life she wanted. She wanted to run an inn of her own, something were she had adventure and excitement, and not be tied down. She wanted love, not duty. Light, she had to make a move now...

Standing beside him, he looked up at her, and she knew that it was him. The shape of his nose, and the way he swallowed the drink in his mouth... it was just like her father. Smiling to him, she slowly put the hood down on her cloak so that he could see her face. People often said that she looked like her mother, but had her father’s eyes. Perhaps he would see them too. Sitting down, she asked, “Mind if I join you?†He nodded his head, and she rested her elbow on the table, her chin resting on the back of her hand. He looked at her for a moment, and she offered her other hand to him. He took it, and he introduced himself. â€Hello, my name is-“ “-Covai Seriba, I know. Rather interesting name, by the way. Mine is Adawyn. I was hoping that you could help me.†He nodded his head. “You see, my father and I lived in the Four Kings, and about eight years ago, we were waiting on my father’s brother and his son. Its funny, because if my cousin is alive, he is about your age... and with your eyes... and with your name.â€

Covai looked at her in shock. “I was wondering if you were he. My name is Adawyn Seriba, and I was hoping that, perhaps, you could tell me whether or not you are my cousin, because he and my uncle went missing when they were traveling to meet us and begin and inn.†His eyes opened wide, as if he knew the story all too well. “Are you my cousin?†Her heart stopped and her voice caught, wondering if she had found someone in the middle of the world.

LOL not this time hun. Adawyn is a good girl...

hey JASON! *tackles mentee* how are you?

wow, this is scary. i know everyone from gaidin already! woot!

and Dash, hun, good friend, random person that i keep away from the corners, i will hunt you down if you hide in your office... and i suggest you not do so, because i always get what i want ;)

LOL, no worries, hun. There are many men to choose from, so i wont choose the taken ones ;) and no worries, it isnt my habit to take the unsingle ones... now, if they are single, they are fair game.

and you know whats sad? he was my temporary mentee, and now he is the big brother. I have a feeling im going to regret this ;)

Dreamland… the place where fears, desires, and hopes come alive in our mind... Sometimes, what we dream of is forgotten as our eyes come alive to the real world, but on rare occasions, especially with our desires, those dreams can be remembered, so that through out the day, whether it be hard and long, or easy and short, we can hold onto those dreams and relive them over and over. It would be a long and hard day for Deneira, one in which she would have to follow her mind, and not her heart, and where waiting and hoping would be her constant companion.

Her eyes opened at the crack of dawn, and just like in her dream, a warm figure lay behind her, holding her close, his breath barely brushing the hair on the back of her neck. She smiled happily, relaxing again in his arms, her eyes closing again. Oh, how she longed to return to that dream, where everything was easy, both of them could express their true feelings, and both could escape the world of duty and honor. For just five minutes, she wanted him all to herself, where nothing else in the world mattered, and no one could stop them from what they wanted, including themselves. Her better judgment told her to move, but her will allowed her heart to win for a few more moments, enjoying the feeling of Shawn beside her.

Duty came into play, and she had to get up, and prepare for the day ahead. He watched her from the bed, smiling as she moved around. She tried to be as graceful as possible, especially when her clothes came off and a fresh set were pulled on. Her face burned, but she was almost glad… the wait that they had endured would make their first real encounter much better. Her heart pounded just thinking about it, and she knew that they would enjoy themselves.

Just about ready for breakfast, she turned to him, smiling, and winked. "What, don't you want to be a tower guard today? Think you can stay a trainee?" He laughed, of course, and her eyes danced as she heard his laugh. Light, just his smile made her heart skip a beat, and she knew that most of his smiles these days were all for her.

"Oh, right. Sorry, I was...um...distracted. You could be dangerous to be around when there's important things to do." Her cheeks burned from his compliment, and she laughed along with him. He finally got up and got ready for the day. Facing the mirror, she tied back her hair, her eyes watching him in the reflection. Her breathing became heavier, and she had to swallow a few times to keep her throat from getting dry. He even opened the door, and she smiled up at him as he smiled to her. "Shall we go to breakfast?"

He was one of the few that she had to look up into his eyes, and they burned brightly, just for her. “What a perfect gentleman I have!†She smiled, and together, they went to breakfast. She was also ready for a day of shopping. Light, what was she to buy? She had waited for this day to come for so long, especially with him. What was his favorite color? What did he like most about her? What kind of dress did he want her to wear? Should her hair be up or down? What about cosmetics… should she try some of those? She didn’t have any jewelry… yes, she had a lot of money, but only because she had brought every cent with her from the farm, especially after selling it. She was wealthy, but had never really thought about the money. Perhaps she should use that. She had never had anything fancy before, and now was perhaps a good time to use that money.

They separated after breakfast, and she waved goodbye to him. Light, she wished he was coming with her… then again, she could surprise him with what she got. Heading into town, she made a stop at the bank. Upon entering the door, she was scooped up by the head owner. “Why, Miss l’Spada, how have you been? I didn’t think you were stopping by today.†Smiling, she bowed to the man. She came once every six months to check on everything, so no wonder he was off guard. “Aye, well, I came to take some money out… I am finally putting some of my money to use.†The man nodded, and led her to the office. “Of course. We always appreciate your business.†After getting her money, Deneira went onto the street, ready for some shopping. She noticed, though, that more was in her belt purse than should be. Funny… she didn’t remember all of it… perhaps she had simply lost count of her coins, but it was still odd. The idea of Shawn putting some in never entered her mind.

The dress shop was her first stop, and she was immediately taken care of. After a few hours of pinning, standing still, and bargaining, Deneira made a good buy of a low cut, full skirted, blue dress, complete with blue slippers. She hoped that Shawn liked blue, but they had been on the blue team together, and led it together, so perhaps he did like the color. She even had to admit to herself… it did set off her eyes. The package was carefully wrapped, and she went to the jeweler. Immediately walking in, her eye caught on a beautiful sapphire, offset by a small diamond on either side. It was on a silver chain, and she quickly made the purchase, along with a few sapphire-set hairpins.

Smiling to herself, she set about getting a small lunch, and quickly ate a sandwich. Now, what to do about her hair and makeup? She saw a small feminine product shop, and entered, completely lost. Where did those things go? Liquids, powders, brushes, ribbons, laces… light, it was all so confusing. She asked for help, rather embarrassed, and was immediately helped. While she didn’t know if she needed it all, she bought it, knowing that on this night, she would spare no expense to look perfect for Shawn. Everything she needed for her hair and cosmetics were in her possession, and she had an idea on what each thing was for and how to use it. She was ready.

good lord, while we are at it, lets have flashing arrows, fireworks, and a dancing monkey!

*waves* howdy boys! oh yeah, and click the link below my regular siggi, and that is Adawyn's siggi. hows it shakin?

since im new here, i want to meet everyone and learn all i can about the BT, as I also want to know about some of it for the BT and WT bonding, since im gaidin RP coord. so, lets all start RPs, and I can meet everyone!

umm, you joined the Dragon Reborn PSW, right? and not the Black Tower Org. double check that. it might be the key

*pets James and Dalinar* thank you boys!

*steals James' lunch* this is what you get for ignoring me!

‘Guard duty... yuk! Who had invented the idea? Standing on a wall for hours upon end, just watching nothing. With all of the Aes Sedai in the tower, couldn’t someone have created a spell of some sort that would make a warning system. Its not like they were doing anything else up there...’ at least, that was what Bruno Valaski thought… early morning watch was a pain. ‘Why should I be up before the sun came out?’ he asked himself. The mess hall was almost done serving when he got off of duty, so he ran to get the last bits of food available. He ran to the kitchen just in time to grab some fruit. He knew that all of the other guards were going into town to get breakfast, and it hurt that he hadnt been invited, but he was used to it by now.

Stumbling up to his room, he grabbed two books off of his desk, and walked out, ready to go to the library and sit with the Aes Sedai, reading. He had to be the worst Tower Guard ever... if only he could leave. But Bruno knew that the only way he was escaping Tar Valon was with an honorable death, and if it wasn’t honorable, then his father would bring him back to life and make him die again... but that was the life of a Shienaran.

“Ouch!†he exclaimed, his knife slitting his finger as he brushed against it. Funny, he hadnt thought it was there. He glared at the object when he picked it up. “That’s it! I’m taking you back to the armory, where some poor trainee can have you!†He had to be going crazy... now he was talking to weapons. A sigh escaped his lips as he ran his way out of the building. The armory door was shut, which was odd, and he opened it. What he saw was by far the worst prank ever.

Sword were flying through the air, knives were jetting to the walls. Bow and arrows worked together, aiming at targets, and axes swung themselves in the air. Throwing the knife into the menagerie, he turned around, running, and left the door wide open. He was furious, and was positive that is was a prank put on by some trainees or an Aes Sedai. It was cruel and hurtful they would do that to him.

“Well, I’ll just do something different today!†Into the Ogier grove he ran, ready to sit beside the waterfall and read. Sitting on the bench that was out there, he felt something tugging on his shoe. He kicked it away, idly, too engrossed in his book. He felt something on his back, then heard something flying through the air. Looking up, he saw that it was himself in the air. Branches and vines wrapped around his arms and legs, and, from his upside down position, he saw water demons coming from the waterfall. No, he knew that this could not be happening. No Aes Sedai could put this together!

Struggling with the vines, he groaned, furious at himself. “Now is when I need that knife!†He somehow escaped, with the help of a water demon that was throwing rocks at him, which also hit the branches. He ran, hard as he could, stumbling and tripping over things, ready to tell the Commander what he had seen. A scream came from the armory, and Bruno gave up the idea. The back of the yards... it would be safe back there. No one ever went back there to the old graveyard, and it was far away from any source of water and weaponry.

Sitting down, his back against a small stone, he felt something on his shoulder. He wiped the tears off of his face, turned around, and said “What now?†Something slipped into his stomach, and Bruno’s eyes went wide as a skeleton looked straight into his eyes. He felt the ground under him open up, and more skeletons came out. It was the old warder graves... what was going on?

Looking down at his middle, he saw a blade straight through. The skeleton pulled it back out, and another one pushed him to the ground. Laying on his face, his own blood pooling around him, he felt another one step on his back and could see the shadow of it on the ground... there was a sword about to stab into his neck, ending his life. How to die... “RUN FOR YOUR LI-“ With that, his head was gone, his words cut short, and his life ended. What sorts of evil traveled on the yards that would end a young tower guards life? Old warders from the dead, flying weapons, and water demons... who would stop the craziness?

hey people, just wondering, where is everyone's characters at on the land at the moment. I might need to ask a few people to RP, and I just wanted to know who, other than those I know, are near Tar Valon. So, where is everyone at right now?

He paused as she mentioned sleep, and the look on his face suggested some inner turmoil. She really did want him to let her go, even if that meant no sleep that night. But, nothing lost, nothing gained, and she was risking not being in his arms just so that she had a chance to sleep in them. He glanced at each of the beds, then layed back, pulling her down beside him. Her body ached, and every place that his skin touched hers, and everywhere that his body pressed to hers begged for more touches and more caress. She hadnt been with anyone in so long, and she had been dreaming all the while of being with him. He needed her to, the way he held her, she could tell. She needed his kiss, and for a few moments, she thought that she might get everything she wanted.

"You're right, of course. Except, I don't want to let go of you. We've been apart so long I don't think I can stand to let go already." She would never leave him if he asked her to stay with him. Light, forget the shopping and guard watch, she would rather stay in bed with him forever. His arms wrapped tighter around her, and she could feel her heart racing. "Let's just sleep tonight," he whispered into her ear. The hair on the back of her neck tingled, and she pressed herself against him, needing him more than ever. "As much as we both might want to do more, you are right that we need sleep." Light, why did she have to be right?

"Of course. Just as long as you dont let go of me..." she whispered back, wrapping his arms tight over her. "Morning will be here far too soon, and I dont want this to end." She sighed happily as he pulled her closer, and her eyes shut in happiness. If this wasnt love, she didnt know what was.

He paused for a moment, then answered quickly. â€Yes. How far away is Caemlyn, my lady?" Laughing softly, she knocked him upside the head with her hand, playing. “Caemlyn is as far as you make it, young one. One week, or one year- it all has to do if you know where you are going.†She looked up at the sun that was almost midsky. Pointing to it, she said, “The sun is our guide, and the north star at night. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west, as does the moon. Using your brain, if it is the morning, and the sun is to your right, which direction are you going?†He thought about it for a moment, the answered correctly, south. She grinned and slapped him on the back. “Thats right... lets just hope you remember that. Caemly is to the south, so just head south until you hit a road, then ask where Caemlyn is. More than likely, it is to the west, do that is where you head. Simple as that.â€

He nodded his head, and she pointed her finger at him between the eyes. “What I say is useful, and one day, you will be greatful for all I teach you. Remember that.†He nodded his head, and she led him on. “Water can be found if you dig deep enough. If you don’t have a spade, then a knife or a stick does perfectly well in making a hole. If you are lucky, you can find a stream, but if you cannot, then dig for water. You have your shirt on your back, and if you strain that water through it twice, then it is clean. Not once, but twice. Even better would be if you has a pot and boiled it out, but you might not always have that with you.â€

She spotted a ditch ahead, and ran down to it. “Come here, put your hand on the ground and feel it.†He did so. “Do you remember the rain from two nights ago? The water ran down into the lower ground, and it made the ground still wet, days later. If you are going to make a camp, then you need to do it on higher ground. In this lower area, the water runs down, so if it rains, then it will be a little bit of a wet night.†He nodded.

“Now, you came from a farm. Have you ever hunted for rabbits or squirrels? I might have you hunting in a day or two.†She went to her packs and pulled out a small trap. “We are going to set this while we eat lunch, and then see what we catch for dinner. But, while we walk, we are going to talk about how to make it.†They walked as they talked, both leading their horses, and she let him hold it for a moment, then took it back. “You see, it is made out of string and wood. Just a basic square box, you could take sticks and tie them together. The top is held up by string, and if it is disturbed, then the hatch falls down, catching whoever enters. You might catch a snake, or a rabbit, or a squirrel. And never forget, you can eat anything if you cook it long enough. Any questions?â€

He looked at the building for a moment, and she was shaking. Would he say yes? Would he say no? What was she doing? “Alright. I could use some relaxation. Though I take on few students, I have endless duties on the yards, as I’m sure you do as well.†She nodded her head, and they walked inside. A woman greeted the, and confidence returned to Deneira. She was here with him, and she would have a good time, no matter what happend. If all else failed, at least she would enjoy a relaxing bath, and with company to talk to.

“Good day to you both! I’m afraid that we are rather full today, but we do have one room that’s not being used at the moment.†Deneira glanced at him, and he tried to get out of it. “Oh, well then we can come anoth-“ “It’s fine,†she said quickly. She had just gotten up courage, and she didnt think she could do it again. “We’ll take it.â€She looked at him, ready to hear a protest. But he nodded his head. “Right this way.†They followed the lady as she led them back, and she could feel his eyes on her, and her heart raced.

“Enjoy yourselves…†The woman was leaving them in the room. “And if you need anything, I’m at your service.†Deneira nodded her head, and the door clicked shut. She turned to look at him, afraid to be alone with him. She shouldnt be there. Yes, she was single at the moment, but still, she shouldnt be doing THIS. “Shall we?†Alriand began removing his clothes, and she turned away, going to her bench to remove her clothes.

She didnt look back at him as she ran to the bench, her fingers pulling at the laces on her boots. She quickly pulled off her socks along with, and removed her shirt, leaving her in the bindings she wore as undergarments. Her fingers shook as she undid her belt, and she undid the button on her breeches. Pushing them down, she remained in her underwear and bindings, afraid to turn around. The tie in her hair, she undid, shaking out the waves. His eyes were on her, she could feel it.

Her fingers were shaking, and her lips were quivering, and she didnt know why. She had done this before, but for some reason, it felt... different. Not exactly bad, but not exactly good. It felt like something was missing, or there was something she had forgotten. Or perhaps it was the way she felt around him. Her heart was picking up speed as she undid the laces on her bindings, and as it fell off, she stood in only her underwear. They slipped off too, and she ran to her tub, stepping in as he looked at her. “It feels amazing... hurry up before the water gets cold!†She could hear her voice shake, and she tried to put on a smile. The way he was looking at her, the way that his eyes held her... she felt so special. Yes, Shawn made her feel like that, but Alriand was new and exciting. She didnt know what it was about him, but he was so much better.

He slipped into the water, and she couldnt help but watch him. The age old body was covered in scars and rips, from old battle wounds to examples of training in the muscles. She was amazed at how he looked, when she knew he was almost twice her age. “So, how goes things for the Grand Masters? Training going ok? No trainees running around terrorizing the city?†She tried to make conversation, but anytime she opened her mouth, she was afraid her voice was shaking. What was this power he held over her?

Another day came and went, and once again, Deneira stood in the middle of the training yard, banging the flat of her blade to a practice lathe, keeping beat. And every time, Danian failed. “REPEAT!†He glared at her, and she glared back. Again, he did so, and she watched him. Of course, he just kept getting worse. Honestly, when would he realise that he would never be good enough? He should have given up before he ever even came. “Come on, you are being an embarrassment!†She yelled at him again, and he glared and tried again. Light, did he even remembered what the sword forms looked like? Neither his feet nor his blade were doing anything right, and she pitied his mother... no wonder she had sent them there- she had wanted rid of him.

"My brother could do that better, and he is six feet under." He stopped, and turned to him, and for the first time in two months, he fought back. "Well, my brother can do the forms better than you, and not only is he a trainee, he's a blind trainee." She stopped mid beat, her arms held in the air in shock. Had he really just said that? Did he really not know who he was missing with?

Stomping forward, she stopped a few feet from him. "Do I have to show you how to do the forms again? This time maybe if I do them on you, you will finally get them right." He raised his lathe, and she tossed the practice weapon from her left hand, standing before him with her sword in hand. He glared at her, and she had a simple smile on her face. This was going to be perfect.

Dorian, the blind one, walked up, and Danian called out to him. "Dorian, leave, I have to beat this wench." She just glared at him harder, and she heard Dorian protest. He finally left, and she turned back to him, smiling. “Now, you are in my court.†"Really, Deneira, it's a pity that all of that beauty is wasted on you, beauty and evil don't go together well." Now that was too far. This little scum would regret everything he had ever said and done, and would curse the day he had come to the yard.

Careful practice, and using his strength and anger against him, she quickly got in a hit on his side with the flat of her blade. She would leave a few bruises, but Ginae might get mad if she killed him. He was about to cry, he was so angry at her, and it took all of the spring to keep herself from going overboard on him. "I'm sick of you, I won't let you boss me around anymore. You are a wench and a monster, the day you die will be the happiest day of my life.â€

She glared at him, and quickly spinning, she knocked at him once on each leg with the flat of her blade, letting it whip at him as the edges lightly tore at his pants. Only professional forms could allow her to do that without making him bleed. He seemed to be in shock, then went crazy in trying to kill her. She ducked and weaved away from the blows, and when she saw an opening, she took it, spinning the blade. He looked in shock as it flew away from his hands and landed before her. She put her foot on it and lifted it into her hand. Tossing it away, she glared at him, anger pouring out of her as if it was mixed in with her sweat.

Taking a few steps back, she went to the wooden practice lathe she had used before, and put away her own weapon. Walking back to him, she pointed to another one. “Grab it, now you crippled.†He lunged at it, and now they were fighting with wood. This way, he wouldnt die when she beat him to a pulp. “Do your forms. I will block them like I am supposed to. You mess up, and you will get hit. DO IT!†She yelled, ready to hurt him as much as he hurt her.