Drenn seemed to remember well their past or so it seemed. He watched him with as much caution and readiness as Linten did him. What would happen if either slipped; would Isha stop them. Would he spare Linten or turn his back as Drenn dealt dead and release from the madness? Linten was not sure either way at this point, his former mentor’s silence troubled him greatly. But he spared it only a moments time and focus. He would not be blindsided by Drenn if he could help it. The man moved off ahead of them; a cold dispassionate shell wrapped around him but Linten could still see the tenseness in small muscles. Neither was about to let their guard down around the other.

 

Isha’s final utterance of words almost startled him as his focus on the more distant shape of Drenn was so intense. He had not noticed the stretched silence between them until his mentor had spoken. At least he hoped he would still be his mentor; he still didn’t know if Isha would accept him. Turning his eyes back to Isha’s scared face Linten studied the man for a moment. Read what he could from the expressions present and void on Isha’s face; the tone threaded through his voice. Survival had made it necessary to learn to read expressions and emotions. He was still not a master like some of the Cairhein he had observed, but he had learn some valuable insights that had kept him alive thus far. Only now his own emotions seemed to muddle what he saw; what he hoped he saw.

 

“Chasing demons and dancing with death,†his voice was quiet with a guarded matter of fact edge still riding on his words; a guarded inflection that had become habit and second nature. He had to keep his head straight now, had to. This maybe his only chance back to some semblance of family and belonging, he could not afford to alienate the man. Deep down a spark of hope took light; warmed to the thought that perhaps Isha might still accept him back. Welcome him as mentee again forgetting that day at the grave side. “You look …. You look awful,†a small smile pulled at the corners of his mouth; attempted lightheartedness in his voice. But worry still prevailed underneath. What do I do if he does not accept me? Where can I go? Will he even let me leave again? The last thought had his mind reaching toward Saidin’s call before he realized it and rationality took over stopping it’s touch of the sweet and tainted source moments before it might have been to late. Isha was not his enemy, would not betray him. He was his mentor and somewhere in the hard man before him he knew he still existed.

 

The empty socket and new scars kept pulling his eye; making him self conscious of the flick of his eyes repeatedly. The big man did not deserve that no matter the situation; how could someone have let it happen? “Is Ben still with you?†It seemed like a safe place to start; a former mentee from the same time as Linten and also assigned to Isha. Perhaps Ben had done better as a mentee for Isha; had made him proud unlike the boy who had cowardly run from the only thing he had left to call family.

 

edited for text marker corrections

The boy dropped to the ground with almost the same speed as his pack once he had unfastened the load. Corin could not believe this was happening; how was he going to explain to Ginae what had happened to one of her children in his care. The fool boy was going to get his hide striped for putting him in this position. Never had Corin had to deal with a mentee assigned to him in a disciplinary fashion so many times; and this one was not even halfway through his training. Silence stretched out between them as the boy visibly fought himself to answer the question. His patients began to wear thin as he waited on the boy for an answer he should have been quick to give. What could possibly be worth this much? Where had he placed his loyalty that he could not readily answer the questions? He watched as the boy leaned heavily against the tree; anguish, more then the pain in his leg lay plain upon his face and spoke of secrets. Little things that usually held a wealth of information when laid out in the right light.

 

Pain and exhaustion finally prevailed as the dam walling his thoughts collapsed; broken incoherent thoughts carried on Dorian’s breath touched his ears. They began to build a puzzle in his mind as he worked to fit the pieces of the boy’s secrets to a picture. Each word uttered without though in the near bliss of isolation and the darkness of unconsciousness. Corin gathered each word as he silently watched the boy continue his struggle. He did not want to disturb him just yet; disturbance would only bring back consciousness and still the tongue that continued to betray his thoughts. It ate at Corin how cold and calculating she had made him and yet he could not forget her; forget either of them. As his body completed it’s slump to the ground; head slipping into the soft grass of the field a smile touched his lips with one last utterance, â€Tiegan.†Green eyes, void at first of emotion, regarded the boy laying still in the grass; his breath still coming in labored gasps. Compassion began to touch their edges; soften them as he worked the puzzle pieces Dorian had let slip; reminded himself again how he was just a boy.

 

Time had changed the world again; made the need for them greater. The White Tower was too empty still though they pushed each new member harder; swept each dark corner of the world deeper looking for more. Tarmon Gai’don was approaching and they did not have the numbers they would need. Even the guard fought to train boys faster; push them harder and make them instruments ready for the Towers purpose. He moved to lean over the boy; so much you still have to learn Dorian. So much I still have yet to learn. His eyes turned once more to a place they gazed on often. Somewhere in that area should be Sirayn’s apartment; a destiny he was tied to some how. There had to be away to make clear the murky waters between them but how? What of Lavinya? He could forget his feeling for her as easily as he could stop breathing.

 

Purposeful eyes sought out the boy’s face once more as he brushed the hair from his face. “Welcome to the journey my young mentee; for the life of a guard is intricate webs of conflict and confusion. Knowing which is which and when to speak will become your life soon enough. Don’t rush into the fray with your eyes closed, there will be ample time for that when you grow up.†Corin’s voice was soft and hushed as he continued to work the new puzzle Dorian had started in his mind. He had not heard of this girl Teigan; but there were so many that came now and he had alienated himself from two that might have offered light to the subject. The hurt separated edge in Lavinya’s voice earlier was not lost on him. If she only knew what she was doing to him; knew what deep rents she carved into his heart with the very edge of sorrow’s sharp blade. He was not trying to avoid her of late, not really. He was just not sure he could control himself as he knew he should; as he knew he must. She did not need to be caught up in the troubles and isolation of a pitiful Tower Guard and the mess he had made of his own life. She deserved someone who could lift her up; support her and return the vast wealth of love he had seen in her.

 

Slowly Corin picked up the boy; slipped him over his shoulder and grabbed a strap to his pack. The burden was awkward and heavy but it fit his disposition. A perfect picture of his turmoil life, burden laden and isolated from those he cared for most. Why did the creator taunt him so; continue to turn his world on end. Did he want to see him break? See him become the hollow and lost soul he had seen come to the Tower hoping against hope that the sisters could help them. With a heavy sigh he turned his eyes from the silvery spires that lay home to the two he cherished most but could not have. “Come boy, let’s get you back on your feet so they can knock them out from under you again.†The silent silhouette of the man and his charge draped over his shoulders crossed the shadow filled yard with only the stars and a few watchful eyes to note their passage toward the infirmary.

Her nod and answer crushed any hope he had of her passing along without notice of him at the same time bringing a slight edge of excitement. So social courtesies it shall be then, Sirayn’s touch had gone deep in him; a deep quietness seeking to play at Daes Dae’mar when ever the opportunity may present itself. Her ice blue eyes swept over him nonchalantly as she questioned whether she was disturbing the guard passing among them. It had to be politeness that brought forth the statement; Aes Sedai did as they pleased and did not ask permission or state a purpose unless they felt there was a gain to be made. The question was what was the gain for this one? Corin had come to learn that there was no simple answer to that question when placed in the light of an Aes Sedai. The gambit of options ran as wide as the Aryth ocean and just as deep.

 

After the past couple of experiences with Aes Sedai he had really be hoping that she would have passed on; left him to make his rounds in peace and eventually find his bunk for a few hours of sleep before he had to check up on his mentee’s again. But it appeared the pattern had something else in mind yet again for his life. Alone with an Aes Sedai had become a rather unnerving experience of late and already his eyes wanted to sweep the area looking for anything that might record this impromptu conversation and return it to Sirayn. Banished or not he was sure she was still receiving word of his movements and actions. Why she would care beyond ensuring her never came within eye sight of her he was not sure; but he could feel it. The guard, like himself, had been well trained in the art of ignoring and not seeing or hearing what took place between Aes Sedai and anyone else unless expressly charged to. This left him for all immediate purposes alone again with yet another sister; one he had not met and therefore was not sure what she might expect from him.

 

“No Aes Sedai, you are not disturbing us. As always we are here to serve and you are welcome to walk the wall as you see need.†He kept his voice light and welcoming as his arm swept the length she had been headed in. The question my dear is why are you out on the wall at this hour? What answers are you seeking? Most people walked alone to sort out thoughts and seek answers to questions they did not always want to share; and it was no different with many of the sisters in the Tower. Intricate puzzles they were and through Sirayn’s teachings a craving to solve those puzzles Corin had learned. With his source of information now in hand; the girl had been far more of a challenge then he expected out of a novice; some of the tension over Sirayn’s protection had eased if only a fraction. “I am Corin Danveer of the Guard, if I may be of any assistance please do not hesitate to ask.†It was formality once again that played the words from his lips. Many things related to the sisters lay in ceremony and formalities. Aes Sedai seemed to take or order as they felt and there was little anyone short of another sister could do about it.

 

If she chose to pass on and leave him to his rounds in peace; to the demons in his head and heart that waged a bitter war. He would be quite happy about the turn of events and would gladly welcome the attempt at isolation again. But should she decide for one reason or another she would be better served with him he would have little choice but to oblige her and see what may come of it. At the very least it would perhaps quell the battle in his mind for a while and focus it else were. There was even a chance this might turn out to be nothing but simple harmless conversation; two separate worlds passing in the night and offering a bit of reprieve from the turmoil of their own climates. Already he could feel eyes borrowing into his back; recording everything that took place around him. He had come to accept that little remained a secret around the Tower, his smile widened slightly at a morbid thought the swept his mind. How the Guard does not face the same fate as a man who can channel I will never know. Surely these women and their way’s will drive us all mad in time.

Her actions initially offered hope to him; brought a sense that he may yet have her bundled neatly with a bow in service. But the eyes that lifted from their gaze of her shoes, even with the timid lip biting, dashed the feeling away as so many bits of broken glass from fine crystal hurled against the hearth. This one had a spirit and a level head on her shoulders; so far. But that would only make the victory all the sweeter in the end; if one existed. Inwardly he frowned at himself and his own doubt welling up. Sirayn seemed to do this on a daily basis; with the ease of breathing. What did it feel so damn hard to accomplish this simple little task. But that was just it. It had started as a simple little task and had ballooned into a conquest of sorts. There had been a time he could have slipped from this path with hardly an alarm; only that time was well past him. Now he was not entirely sure he sought completion for it’s original goal or to prove to himself, to Sirayn, that he could do it; That he could beat this agitating little girl.

 

“I guess it would feel like being cast out by the people you love most.†Her words were soft; almost with an innocent curiousness to them. But she could not have cut him deeper and more direct then if she had held a blade of steel. A blood red rose opening in beauty and delivering nothing but loss and pain in it’s fragrance. He knew all to well the pain that came from being cast out. The overwhelming loss at being separated from that love; knowing that while she still breathes you might never be near her again. A separation only made all the more permanent with death. This was the reason they were here now; his loss. Anger, blind rage, surged up from deep with in. Somehow this simple child had found the one thing to hurt him with the most and casually threw it in his face. Years of meditation and ingrained training were the only things that helped keep any of it from touching his face. Tension in his shoulders, the knotted muscles, were hidden from view under the cloak and fingers that had taken to clenching white with the strain were in front of him and safe from view. All signs he needed to work further on his control; any of which had she seen would have been a good as telling her where to strike him the hardest.

 

He almost wanted to laugh at the way she stressed Tower Guards in her line of protecting family; instead nodded in affirmation. This one is more slippery then a fresh eel, humorous thought helping to remove a wisp of the tension knotting his back. He turned back along the alleyway keeping a slow and comfortable pace with her at his side. “No reason really, just pondering.†The innocent look she wore was almost perfect in everyway. Only it did not match the viper of earlier nor the skill at which she played out this game; other then to prove she was good indeed and cautious steps were called for. Had he not had the training he received from Sirayn he was sure this Novice would have been leading him around by the nose already. Keeping her at his side worked at keeping her from fully studying his face directly. But it also did the same against him. “As I am sure you are aware there is a great degree of politics in the Tower. It seems to be a game they thrive on. I myself am a simple man and rely on the more black and white of situations. The ever changing tides of grey I leave to those more qualified.â€

 

They emerged once more from an alleyway and this time turned down the cobbled street away from the wall. “It’s okay, a brief stop to refresh those herbs for the yellow.†He turned to smile warmly at her, “wouldn’t want her more upset then she is now would we.†he collected her hand gentle, but with firm enough authority to keep it there should she think otherwise, and placed it on his forearm; interlocking their arms before leading her into a small shop. He could feel the sudden tension in her delicate muscles under his touch. Once inside he release her hand immediately and motioned for the store owner, a tall willow of a man, from behind a writing desk. “Can you please assist this young lady with replacing these herbs for I fear they will be of little use by our return.†After only a moments glance he hustled Faile over to a series of garden boxes through a side door; tisking about the loss of such fine herbs. They were not gone long before they returned back into the store; offering a yellow carnation to Faile as Corin covered the man’s time and product. Collecting her hand once more in similar fashion he escorted her out the door and across the street to another alley where he once again released his grip.

 

“Even before we reach the goal of our training it seems many idea’s and perceived loyalties have been formed about us and who we will become. Wouldn’t you agree?†He glanced over with a relaxed expression briefly before continuing; but his focus was on the girl in the corner of his eye. Never really looking at her but taking in any changes or reactions his peripheral vision brought him. “It seems nothing is done in Tower or town that is not seen and reported to someone. Take us for example …†he let a slight pause draw out briefly to add thoughts to his last words. “By now several reports I’m sure have been sent through certain channels to sister in the Tower. By our return or the morn many judgments and new perceptions will have been formed. Always trying to pigeon hole each report and situation to an action. Truth; backed truth can of course correct misconception. But if not fully backed it can cement that misconception to a point nothing will correct it.†He continued to study his adversary from the corners of his eyes.

 

Adversary, when did an innocent child become and adversary Corin? The question in his mind was cold truth. Somewhere since there meeting; desire for Sirayn’s safety had changed the game he played. This Faile and her skills, greater then an ordinary novice should hold, had set the pace. Now it was a match more of players in the Great Game then it was a simple entrapment of a novice for a task. In a way she had taken his need to protect Sirayn and added a second mission to this night. To prove to Sirayn he could sit at the table of Daes Dae’mar and be an asset for her. He was by far not the caliber of his teacher; but surely enough for her to use. Deciding that the silence had stretch long enough for her to have thought on his latest words it was time to add more teeth to the trap; sweeten the bait. “Reports often change in the retelling; grander, additions of minute proportion to make the tidbit seem better to the pallet.†His hand tapped at his chin idly, “I wonder what conclusion could be made from this trip. A visit to an Inn; man and women. They emerge and she looks less disheveled and he is smiling. I wonder what they are hiding; what could happen in an Inn? Arm in arm into a flower shop for herbs. Odd for a guard and novice really …. Unless one takes into consideration they are a man and women …. Oh and lets not forget the Inn earlier. Little bits here and there; nothing concrete in purpose or happening. Only questions and speculation. Interesting don’t you think?â€

Linten watched as the chair clattered to the floor; a single wide eye lock on him. It was the first time he had ever seen open bewilderment on the large borderlander. He had seen different emotions from him at the yard and on that fateful day in his home borderland; his fathers grave. Concentrated control kept the shiver from manifesting at the grave side remembrance. He studied his mentor’s face; recorded every mark and line displaying a maze of emotions. But he could not stop from glancing back to the puckered scar that ran through tissue and a dark socket where his eye should be. Who could have done this? Isha had been a tough hard and disciplined mentor; soldier. But now before him Linten saw a man lost to himself; gripped by emotions that seemed to fight themselves for control. Had anyone suggested it was possible earlier in his career with the Tower he would have fallen over unable to walk with laughter. But laughter was a distant thought now. Will he still accept me? Does he despise me so much?

 

Movement from the corner of his focused vision normally would have alarmed him; had sword and Saidin in hand. But now it registered only dimly; a fly buzzing around his head as he stood motionless be fore his speechless mentor hoping for acceptance; understanding. “Recruit, You will return to the Black Tower with us promptly and report to the M’Hael for debriefing.†The sudden hard tone of Drenn’s voice broke though him; startled him slightly. He almost flinched at the words; a slight shake visible before he could rein in control. Coolly he looked back at the man; noted the shining Dragon pin on his collar, the guarded stance. Fingers flexed slightly at his side, itched to feel the firm pressure of his sword hilt. His eyes looked back at Isha questioningly only to hear the other man order him to prepare to leave. eyes lingered on Isha’s seeking any sign of the leader he knew existed; hoping beyond hope that he would accept him back.

 

Again he noted movement in the corner of his eye but his senses where his own again; eyes darting back to Drenn in veiled challenge. At one time he would have; might have called the man friend; but that same night had also pit them against each other. A dark and quiet man with unnatural eyes had met his from opposite sides of death offering edges. Linten had not forgotten where the man’s loyalties had lay that night; he would watch him carefully until proven otherwise. Silence lay thick between them as he continued to study the man now risen to Asha’man status. He tested his reach toward the source and felt no resistance as he neared it but did not touch it. Drenn had far more training them himself now; the pin showed that. But in a fight for survival a man used everything he could and a cornered man fought harder then one expected. He turned his head slightly keeping Drenn still in good view while he addressed Isha, “As requested Asha’man Isha Talcontar so shall I do. If you will excuse me I will gather my things and return.†He offered a crisp salute to his former mentor and the barest nod of recognition to Drenn. With his eyes still on Drenn he back away several steps before turning to head toward the stairs. Most of the common room was empty now; those that remained tried to look busy, to look like they did not see what was happening. Cowards! Bury your head in the sand, but sooner or later you will need the Dargon and those sworn to him. Stopping briefly at the stairs he glanced back toward the table eyes locking briefly on Drenn’s once more before proceeding up.

 

Closing the door behind him he sagged against it briefly “He said nothing, nothing at all. Am I so great a disappointment he would not even acknowledge my presence. Am I truly so dead to him.†His mouth worked the form of the last few words but his voice had failed him. Slowly his body slide down the door until he was seated on the floor; arms wrapped around his knees he fought to keep emotion at bay. Perhaps he had been wrong in his decision to return. He could run; slip out the back and move on to the next village or town. Lay low in a farm house an wait for the hunting parties to move on; only then what? The witches still hunted men like himself; he could not face them all. What about the taint, if he went mad would he hurt innocent children. He scrubbed the tears that had begun to slide down his face with the backs of his hands. The void had slipped and in it’s absence emotion leeched in. No, he would make this work. The Black Tower needed men who could channel; until the Dragon claimed them for service he needed the Tower.

 

With stone determination he collected his belongings and stuffed them into the bag; hand closed gently around the small carvings in his pack. Reassurance they were still there helped to melt away some of the stress in his neck. He pulled his hand back out, fastening the bag securely and slipped back into the comfort of the void. Emotionless was how he had to remain; mind alert. He could afford neither a drop in his guard nor a softness in his heart until he fully knew what lie before him. The yard and the M’Hael were the next stop and answers he was not sure he could offer would be sought from him. Perhaps that would be all but he steeled his emotions into a distant corner should that not be the case. He would accept what was to be; but he would not be broken, not yet.

 

Arriving out front with the short legged gelding at his side he surveyed the little party. Three men dressed in black on a lightless night; the look of death held in them and the tension of silent madness surrounding them. It appeared the town folk were more then happy to see them on their way alone; nothing moved in the streets; window shutters drawn tight against the night. He shook his head slightly; disappointment welling inside. It had been that way in the beginning when he had worn the uniform back then; his hand once more absently rub the material of his opposite arm. They wanted protection from the Father of Lies and his minions. But would only embrace men who could touch Saidin if they were surrounded by Tar Valon witches or they were facing a Trollics pot and no other means of salvation came to them. He was tired of the resentment, the fear; you could rush them, crush them all. Make it look like one of his minions did the deed. A quite low growl escaped him briefly as he cursed the voice and it’s poisonous thoughts; eyes looking back down the deserted street behind them. I need them still …. For awhile I need them. With emotions and thought in a steel grip he faced the other two; a small dark twinkle still lighting his eye. He nodded acknowledge at the men, prepared to follow them; but eyes remained warily on Drenn and his movements. How much of the past lives in you still old comrade.

 

Linten al’Dracain

BT Recruit mentee of Isha

Quiet defiance is mine.

A dark lightless sky; the moon hidden behind the thick blanket of cloud. It seemed to fit his mood, a mood that had become far to familiar. Linten adjusted the saddle pack on the short legged gelding he sat; moved in rhythm with the horses steady trot toward another town. It was the only light in the area and the only potential light for him; a chance to once again start over. Each time he had the Tar Valon witches had appeared; going about their business it seemed. But he knew better; knew they must be Red’s hunting for male channelers; for him. Each time he seemed to settle in; began to find possible comfort and a way to co-exist. They had shown up in all their pompous glory and world saving righteousness. Each time the temptation to stop running; to face them, destroy them if need be, grew. But instead he always slipped out with the coming of night. Black had comforted and protected him more then anyone else since leaving the Farm and he had become found of it’s company. Dark space, dark thoughts, dark life. These were his companions; all he could trust and now the wheel turned again and he found himself hoping to start a new; to find rest.

 

The town streets were quiet and it pleased him to slip nearly unnoticed into the village. What noise there was to indicate life mainly came for two large buildings that where the Inns for the village. His random choice lead him to the Inn on the left, The Black Mare. The grin that added the faint white trace to his face at sight of the name seemed out of place at first glance but it fit the theme of his life. Slipping from the horse he tossed a couple of coppers to the boy out front. “Mind it’s fed and watered properly, and don’t forget the rub down either.†Turning he stepped up to the door with a large saddlebag over his shoulder and reached out to it. In that instant his world changed and for the first time in over a year Linten felt ice move in his veins again. Somewhere inside a man had just channeled; it was not a large draw. If he had not been this close to the door he may not have noticed. But it had happened; the question that pulled at his haggard mind now was who? And for what purpose? Tension tried to touch him; make him nervous and tighten muscles. But instead he quickly opened himself to the void; fell into its emotionless embrace and studied the door before him that his hand just touched. In there answers maybe found, but also more question . He was tired of question; tired of thinking; tired of trying to survive alone. Perhaps if it was not too late he could teach the man enough to last against the taint for awhile; someone to talk to.

 

With cautious steps he entered the tavern and moved to the bar. The room was only mildly busy and the plump old women who owned the place immediately met him there. “I’m in need of a room for the night, perhaps more.†It took only a moment to settle on a price before she had another old lady on the move to ensure his room was ready. Glancing over his shoulder he surveyed the room carefully hoping to figure out who had channeled when the very blood in his veins became ice; his breath catching in his throat for a moment. He turned back toward the bar quickly, his glance had been no more then a flick to the table in a distant corner but it was enough for his mind to leap visions before him. Men sat around that table, but these were no ordinary men. He recognized the black uniforms immediately before spinning back to the bar hoping not to be noticed. Ashamen here, a recruiting party perhaps. Unconsciously his hand moved over the saddlebag still on his shoulder; rubbed the black uniform inside. With a slight start he looked up to the owners face as her hand shook his shoulder lightly. “I said your room is ready, She will see you to it.†Only half turning he followed the other women up the steps and into a small cramped room at the end of a hall. Closing the door behind her he quickly latched it and tossed his pack on the bed with a thump; the bed was not going to be soft and comfortable by the sounds of it.

 

Ashamen here ….. Here, in the same town. How can that be? What are the odds? He paced back and forth over the small room as his mind worked feverously on what to do. In a way they were the answer; if he went back with them then he would be safe from the witches. But it also meant facing the M’heal and Isha his old mentor. What would he say? Would he be happy to see me again? So many questions; his life continued to be unanswered questions that never ceased. He was not sure at what point he had stopped pacing and had pulled the black uniform from the saddle bag. But realization came as his eyes swept toward the door and froze on the image in the mirror. A young man he had not seen in a long time holding a uniform he had not worn in almost as long. Curious puzzlement painted his face; nervous hands held the black cloth. So long it had been since he had felt those feelings. His focus shifted slightly to the sword hilt sticking up over his right shoulder. There would be a price; was he prepared to pay it?

 

It had taken several more minutes of negotiating and rationalizing with himself before the decision was made. Slowly fingers suddenly made of wood fumbled at his laces and buttons; slightly trembled as they worked at the clothes. With painstaking slowness they completed the job. He turned toward the mirror fastening the high collar and let his hands fall to his side. A view from a distant memory looked back at him from the depths of the mirror; a face, a person he had not seen in over a year and only now realized how much he had missed him. He looked back down at the tunic; his hand smoothing the cloth against his opposite arm taking in the feel of the material; the snugness of the collar. Turning back to the bed he lifted the sword and fastened it to his back once more. With a final adjustment and look in the mirror he took one last cleansing breath and drew the void around him like a protective cloak. “Now the test of your will begins Linten old boy.â€

 

He closed the door behind him; his hand lingering on the wood as if to leech additional strength from it. Noise from below filtered up the stairwell. His destiny awaited and there was no more time for hesitation. Each step down the stairs was a test of his will to face the men in black and the judgment that may be settled on him when they returned him to the Farm. He could feel the pull of Saidin calling to him as he reached the bottom. A serving girl passing across the stairs base almost dropped her tray before skirting wide around him. Bloody ashes Linten control. Control your emotions; your features. You are better then this. With a conscious effort he relaxed the hard expression that had taken his face and emptied all sense of emotion from it. With a last deep breath he headed across the room toward the men at the table and an uncertain future.

 

As the crowd parted the table broke into view directly in front of him. Eyes as black as his uniform flashed up from one of the table’s members and regarded him coolly at first and then a tinge of recognition flashed as Linten’s lips moved to the memory, “Drenn.†Suddenly this did not feel like the right choice; the sound of metal meeting metal echoed in his head a vision of Drenn facing him sword locked against his own. Drenn’s eye movement, braking their locked gaze, drew his eyes to the large man at the end of the table with his back to him. A top knot adorned his head and brought back a flood of memories; threatened to break him then and there as loss and fear battered violently across the smooth surface of the void. Spidery web lines cascaded over it’s surface; gave the impression of a shattered mirror. His throat felt dry and tight but he knew there was no way to turn back now. His tongue swept across his lips; tried to bring moisture to them. Focusing he worked the words over in his mind before he let them pass between himself and the men at the table; worked to ensure his voice remained calm and flat. “Recruit Linten al’Dracain reporting. I stand ready for your orders.†His hand moved to his chest in a salute and then fell to his side as he stood emotionless watching and waiting.

 

Linten al'Dracain

Black Tower Recruit

A lost wanderer returns hesitantly

Green eyes swept across the black velvet expanse over head; noted the twinkle of a thousand stars. Their appearance was that of diamond chips drawing the wandering eye in wonder and bewilderment. So much beauty and vastness created in a sweeping moment by the creator’s hand. Corin’s eyes finally came to rest on a moon almost full and low on the horizon. The thin film of chimney smoke where it sat made it take on a blood red tinge drawing a sardonic smile to the young guards face. The creator had so easily brought forth the vast wonders and beauty of the night; yet that same night held a deep rooted evil. An evil that continued to grow; to gain strength against them. How was it, that which could bring forth such beauty could not remove such horrid evil as easily. Hard surveying eyes swept their gaze down to the city of TarValon that stretched out below the high wall he stood. A smattering of lights flickered through out it’s restless slumber. Even at this hour the streets still moved with life. The teaming masses of the day were gone but the city never truly slept, and in that darkness amongst the few scurrying and scuttling around dark agents went about their tasks. The same evil they fought to dispel; lurked ever watching for an opportunity. “Not on my watch†the words were little more then thought bound to a breath but the sentiment was strong as steel and rooted deeply.

 

Releasing the city below from his study he continued on his rounds along the wall checking on the various men and women stationed there; men he had traded posts with before, would again. His schedule had him walking the wall instead of positioned on one of it’s guard posts. A nice change of pace from the usual doldrums of standing at a post watching the same scene play out before you. Late night walks where good for the mind; helped focus thoughts and the cool fresh night air worked to bring clarity to those ever mounting problems. The biggest of which still remained to be Sirayn Sedai and her refusal to let him explain. As well reach into the sky above and collect even one of those diamonds as try to get it through her stubborn thick head what he was trying to do. He could feel the tension begin to knot in his shoulders once more and eased them slightly to work the tension free. He returned a nod to a guard at post as he passed along the wall’s walk. If he did not get control of his thoughts he was going to have to answer questions he was not ready to yet. Glancing back toward the Tower spires rising high above he could almost sense the creators ironic humor in the view. The discolored moon breaking over the horizon bathed the normally white shining tower in the palest shade of crimson. Even the creator can see the blood that stains the hands of many of those who call that home. Shaking his head to refocus his thoughts Corin continue along the walk; the tension no longer visible as his mind worked meditation exercises.

 

Life had changed so much for him since he arrived as a wide eyed child seeking the adventure told about in gleeman’s tails. He had known innocence then; believed in the good of the tower and those that were bound to it. Over time though his eyes had been opened; the world he had know shattered like a mirror. It’s shards sharp, reflecting an dark and twisted view of what had once been so clear. Even here behind the great wall he walked; the Father of Lies was able to touch the world. Distort the beliefs of weak minded fools who would bring about the flow of life’s blood in his name. The rest of the world still saw the White Tower as a refuge and beacon of all that was good. But he had come to see the darker side of it. The twisted souls that had sold themselves to his slavery in the hopes of gaining greater power. It was because of that that Corin worked so hard to know where and what Sirayn was doing. He needed to be at her side; to keep her safe from the dark clutches that roamed freely in the Tower. But instead he had been banished from her sight, never to communicate directly with her again. He kicked at a loose stone and sent it skittering across the walk as it bounced off one of the short walls. I swore to keep you safe and will with my dieing breath whether that pleases you or not Sirayn Simeone-Damodred.

 

But then his actions at the cabin were not the only thing that contributed to this isolation. At the slight remembrance Lavinya’s soft smooth face framed in rich red hair filled his minds vision almost causing him to stumble. Control was getting better when thoughts of her invaded. But it was still a struggle to keep her in thoughts as a sister who might need protection and not an emotionally deep woman he could easily be lost in love’s embrace with. She was another part of the ever complicated puzzle that had become his new life; his tower life. He missed the day’s of sparing with friends like his old roommate Orion. There was a man of honor that held the good side of life in the tower. Other then that very unfortunate accident that had left him blind, Orion had come though training and the guard’s smelling like a rose. Everything seemed to be going for him. He didn’t have the women troubles Corin faced nor the dark and seedy side of the city to deal with in servitude to the Aes Sedai that lay swan over him. In fact, for Orion it seemed the love of his life was the one he would bond if not already. One day they needed to catch-up again in the tavern; perhaps even tease Savannah like they use to. The new journey his mind had taken sat a relaxed smile on his face and lightened his spirit immensely. This was what he needed right now; release from the troubles of his own life. He continued along his round whistling softly to himself a tune from the tavern they sat when they could.

 

His relaxed state changed as a silhouette appeared along the wall before him; his eyes picking out the shape of it slowly growing up and out of the darkened path. Even at this distance the shape was unmistakable now to his mind as he began to prepare walls around his emotions before he would find himself face to face with an Aes Sedai. He did not recognize her specifically at this distance; but there was no mistaking the outline. Only one type would be allowed out on the walls at night looking other then the cloak and armament of a guard. Those one’s where rarely questioned; those brave enough to try found themselves feeling as though the flies gathering around the latrine had more right then you to be in there presence never mind actually question them. Slowly his mind shifted to a game he had played here often; a game Sirayn had introduced him to. Instructed him in fact on it’s many and varying nuances. What treasures and tidbits does this one hold that I might be able to pry loose for Si …. He cursed himself under his breath. So well she had him trained; even banished from her as he was, he was still looking at what gain he could bring her. The woman became more clear as the distance between them continued to close. He was not going to be able to make the next guard post before he met her; which meant at least a sociable hello. Perhaps she is deep in thought and will pass on like some of the Browns, he had found that many of their rank seemed to be lost in their own thoughts most of the time. Stopping slightly before her Corin dropped into a proper bow; red cloak sweeping around him in the sudden change of movement. “Good evening Sedai, a wonderful evening for a walk.â€

Corin watched the boy with an intent eye as he bowed and wheeled for the barracks and his room. Don’t be late boy, the though was more a whish for him self then it was a wish for the boy’s sake. He had no real desire to be out here at this hour with his turn at the wall coming early in the morning hour. Had it in fact not been Lavinya’s voice in that office he might not have stopped at all. How was it she could still muddle his mind? But he had stopped and now he was going to ensure this was nipped in the bud early. The last thing the boy needed was the distractions of a girl and her future Aes Sedai claws; whether he understood that or not. From the catalogue of memories rose a conversation with his mentor while he was still sneaking out to train with Sirayn. He tilted his head slightly watching the boy as he disappeared around the corner. Something was not right; the way he moved, something.

 

Even as Lavinya Sedai materialized out of the building’s shadow the light flowery scent of her hair filtered the expanse to twine around his thoughts. He cut a glance sideways at her comment; face still the chiseled stone authority of a yard mentor. Just the view of her once more; silhouette in the soft shimmering moon light stirred feelings he had, until now, successfully kept lock up deep inside. Her hair, in a slight disheveled look, framed a face that still if he was not careful infiltrated his dreams. In a way she had been a part of what had gotten him exiled from Sirayn’s presence. I could lay so much blame and hurt at your feet ….. Yet still it is myself I fight to keep from laying at your feet in surrender. He watched as her lips, moist and glistening in the moon light, curled at the edges in a wry smile. Perhaps her way of making the words less then they seemed.

 

His eyes returned to the building corner Dorian had fled behind at her words of his mentee. He nodded at the mention of the awkward position the boy had made this. Noted the stop in her movement; a safe distance still separating them for propriety. Even in the dark at this late hour the yard held too many eyes that watched; and he could feel them press in on him. He had been cornered by Sirayn shortly after there first meeting; there last meeting Sirayn had impressed on him during that uncomfortable time. In reality it was not just to appease Sirayn he had stayed a safe distance from this redhead. It was also for himself; not knowing if he could have the control, the restraint to keep friendship at friendship and not fall deeper then he could afford. He would have been true to his word, if she had sent for him he would have met her anywhere. But so far she seemed to accept the idea of friendship between them. "It is a pleasure to see you again, I just wish it was under different circumstances." Her voice still sounded musical to his ear as he turned to face her; watched the moon bathe the side of her face in light as she tilted her head. Light if you only knew how hard it is to see you and not hold you; feel you close It would have been so easy after Sirayn had banished him from her presence to fall into Lavinya’s warm arms and be lost in a closeness he knew she would return.

 

“It is good to see you again also Lavinya,†he bowed slightly resisting the urge to collect her hand. The light from the MOT’s office snuffed out and he straightened rigidly for a moment. A reminder that there were eyes everywhere. With a quick salute to Ginae he watched as she disappeared into the dark toward her quarters. Only when the footsteps no longer reached him did he turn his attention back to Lavinya. "I hate to be harsh on the pair, after all I was little different as a novice and some things never change." His eyes swept briefly to where she looked and then back to her profile a small knot tight in his stomach. Since they had last met curiosity had worked it’s trade on him; most notably after certain comments Sirayn had offered. What he had found out had confused him immensely. She was an Aes Sedai of the grey; a place of honor being risen to the shawl. But some of the stories he had heard …. Many did things while they were trainee’s. It was an extension of who they had been or the last shreds of defiance in who they where becoming. But the few stories he had hear painted Lavinya in a shade of color closer to Sirayn’s comments then he liked; then he was willing to believe.

 

Unconsciously he flexed fingers of the hand that hand been broken; though not nearly as bad as the fellow who had been spouting off in that tavern. Why did he care what happened to her …. What some said about her. “You look like you have had a rather .. Busy night Lavinya.†He voice still held a slight edge but it was not for her. He hope she would recognize that as he let the edges of his features soften slightly; a touch of warmth enter his eyes. “I am sorry you were disturbed by the boy, he really is a good kid. I would say I do not know what got into his head but that would be a lie.†An edge of remembrance entered his voice; betrayed the distant front he still tried to hold as he forced his glance back to the building where the boy had slipped behind. How long had it been? “I may not know the situation I can imagine; I was a trainee too at one time.†He attempted a weak smile at his comments as if in jest of his own words while he met her gaze. How easily he could fall prey to those deep brown eyes again. His torn and confused heart demanded more from him; moved with without thought. His eyes scanned quickly around them as his hand began to raise toward her. His features still remained distant, an example of the battle that waged inside. “I have …†a soft clattering sound rounded the distant building and drew his focus intently; an eagle drawn to it’s prey.

 

He dropped his hand to his side as hard authority filled him once more; added ice and command to his voice. Impassionate eyes followed the awkward progression of the over burdened blind boy as he approached and dropped into a formal bow for Lavinya before addressing himself. So much potential if the boy does not force me to kill him. “You are lucky, it seems you have met the first requirement. Since you were so easily able to find your way to the barracks and back you should have no problem finding the track from here either.†His voice dropped, a darker edge touching it again as he leaned in toward the boy, “you will run until I say stop, are we perfectly clear on that.†He waited for the boy to nod before he leaned back again. “Good … now run!!†the sudden shout smashed the peaceful quiet calm and echoed off the buildings. He watched as the boy moved off toward the track in a shuffling jog. I don’t know what it is but there is something wrong.

 

He watched Dorian set to the track; rounding the near corner and setting out along the back straight. “Why,†the word was soft ; his back still turned to Lavinya as he studied the boy. Why had he gotten mixed up with a Novice? Why did Lavinya of all people catch them? Why was she out there? Why am I so hard on him? Why can I not make Sirayn see sense? Why? Always there was why Lavinya’s soft voice broke his concentration again pulling his mind and ear to her though he did not turn. His eyes remained on the boy working the track; his mentee, his responsibility. He listened to her, took her words in but could not shake the sensation of eyes watching in the dark. He had to make things right with Sirayn, what might have happened moments ago would not have helped that cause. He noticed the boy stumble and realization finally came to mind. “Bloody ashes! The boy will make himself lame at this rate and then what am I to tell Ginae.†He stepped forward and froze for a moment before spinning quickly on heel to face one half of the torment that consumed is mind. He dropped into a very formal bow, “if you will excuse me Lavinya Sedai, I must see to the fool boy before he completely destroys that ankle.†Rising he started to turn and stopped; eyes flicking back to her face. “It … it was nice to see you again. Perhaps one day we can go for that ride we spoke about.†What are you doing you foolish man. Have you lost all sense. You are playing with fire and you are going to get burned. Common sense buried somewhere in the quagmire of confusion and loss broke free enough to bring the obvious to light. Only he had already spoken the words; could not take them back. He quickly turned and jogged toward the track where a problem he could deal with lay.

 

It did not take long to catch up to Dorian as he worked his way around the track. He was doing quite well considering the load, his blindness, and the problem ankle. “Okay, time to stop and have a little chat Dorian.†His voice still held it’s authoritive tone but it no longer held the iced edge. Grabbing the boy by the elbow he lend him to the inner grass circle, “loose the load and have a seat.†Watching he sat down on the grass cross-legged and waited for the boy to finish and settle to the ground. “You did not just hurt that ankle did you?†The boy nodded and he suppressed a sight, “I didn’t think so; mind telling me how you did hurt it?â€

The sensation was strong as Linten walked toward the tree line, Saidin sung to him and he could feel the power Isha was channelling to create the gateway. But it did not last long. Within several steps the sensation was gone; snapped off like a flame snuffed out. His steps faltered slightly. No sound met him on the wind; his mentor was true to his word. Isha had left him here alone; he did not need to turn around to know this. A silent ache in his chest grew as he realised he may never see the big man again.

 

It's better this way; you'll see, the voice in the shadows of his mind was his and was not at the same time. He stopped on the edge of the dark and twisted tree line. Now there would be only himself and the voice whether it was his or not he cared little now. Ahead lay death and he welcomed its call with bittersweet acceptance. It took little time to sink into the void now with all the training Isha had given to him. From in it's isolated darkness Saidin sung the sweetest of songs to him. The glowing golden orb over his shoulder whispered of power and strength. It offered him life beyond measure and pleasure untold. He reached out mentally and grasped it with force.

 

Fire and ice crashed over his body as he touched the One Power. A river of molten lava; oil slicked and covered in decay scoured or his bones and tried to sweep his spirit with it. His stomach twisted from the stench and vileness that coated the source. The Dark ones taint coated him like a thin film of oil and for a moment as he stood before the forest he almost welcomed the taint. It reminded him he was not dead yet; sweet joy bursting in on him from the torrent river that was Saidin. So easily he could draw it all in, fill him self with the mesmerizing pleasure of it's touch and end all his pain as it destroyed him. Not yet Linten ... Not yet, With a visible shudder he pushed the urge away; held only what he could comfortable handle like in training.

 

With Saidin weakly at his call; limited in knowledge of the many weaves that could be used. He pushed through the forbidding foliage and moved into an unnatural darkness that felt wrong; felt death and decay brush over him at the touch of the plants. Death would be dealt this day and every day he lived to see until the creator took him home or a meaning to live returned to him. Silence sprung up around him; nothing moved as the forest edge swept closed in his passing sealing off the wind that had blown blustery across the plain.

 

It was time.

 

Linten al'Dracain

BT Trainee, Lost mentee of Isha

:lol: ...... screamed at .... well at least he knows his place .... a screamer not a fighter ;)

Ahhh .... insight and a road map into chaos <EG>

 

Linten

 

EDIT: What!!!!!! Seems I missed a post from why dear careing mentor. Send them after me .... you just want to punish Linten more don't you .... send the gay guy's over so he goes off the deep end and you get to punish him again .... Time has warped you mentor *shakes head* .... our reunion will be interesting. ;)

Why is it that women and life must be such a complicated puzzle? The guard he had become and the lessons he had learned; still learned. None of them prepared him for this kind of meeting. To watch as you slowly fell in love with some one while still in love with another. It made no sense yet the feelings Lavinya continued to stir in him could only be attributed to love. Life was not suppose to be like this; one could have many fancies on this girl or that. But to feel so deeply about two women was insane; sheer madness. A man gave his heart to one women only save that of a family member. They were not even the same type of woman; different as night and day. Be that as it may he loved them both; cared for them both. How was he going to get himself out of this mess; did he even want to.

 

His pulse raced once more at the light brush of her fingers over his tunic; demanded his minds attention from it’s puzzle. The light stain of red in her tear streaked cheeks with that small smile created the portrait of an angels face before him. Light there has to be a way? Please let me find a way; the strength, he offered a silent pray to the creator. â€Thankyou.†the simple word in her soft voice sent a chill down his spine but he refused to acknowledge it’s presence. There has to be a way, but a new voice; dark voice now echoed his bodies thoughts. Sirayn holds no bond on you, she hardly notices your presence. How can you possibly find happiness there? Look before you; take it, clench happiness in your grasp and never loose it. Startlement at the bold and brazen words that floated there. A heated hatred of himself that they could even exist in his mind. He was a guard of the Tower and swore to protect all with his life. A proud member of the crimson cloak that stood in defiance against all that would harm the White glistening spires or it’s inhabitants. He had made a commitment to Sirayn whether she knew it yet or not; a commitment he could not simply discard as rubbish. So where does that leave me?

 

The smile this time that spread thinly over her face lacked heat or humor; distant from the passionate exchanges they had shared earlier. Something was different; had changed between them. She seemed hesitant, almost as if on unfamiliar ground. The point emphasized as she stepped back from his hold; coolness washing over his chest in remorse. Suddenly the smile was more suited to her face; more the curve of her lips he had remembers from the begin of their meeting. Lips that brought forth a phantom remembrance of their heat and softness which he had indulged in. Her hand remained wrapped around his and to his surprise she brought them up to place a light kiss to the back as he would normally. Like a new beginning … perhaps that is what they needed; he needed. A chance to start again, to be more weary about where he let her lead; where he allowed himself to go.

 

Foolishness! How could that ever happen, how could he even imagine his mind and heart would not remember what had happened here. No, there was no chance at beginning again; only finding a way to go from here. Grey eyes returned once more … only something was different. These where not the hard accusing eyes he had become accustom to in his mind; had faced so many times. They seemed almost soft; almost saddened. His mind had to be playing tricks on him. There was no way Sirayn could ever possible be soft; be frightened. It was preposterous to even think, but it pulled hard at his heart; he wanted to comfort them. More then ever now he needed to get her alone, to find a way to talk to her; show her how he felt, be like he was now with Lavinya.

 

Lavinya’s soft musical voice once more drew his attention back as she spoke up, fingers toying with his own. She seemed to almost take on a child like innocence before him as she opened herself further to him; voice similar feelings and questions. They were more alike then he wanted to willingly admit. Perhaps another place or a different time he might not have let her slip from his arms so easily; would not have. But he had to stay focused; fight to remain on solid footing. It would be so easy to fall back with the slippery slope that was Lavinya Sedai; she would make it so easy and welcoming. I have to get away from here …. Need distance and time alone to sort out what is happening. The whispered question about what to do now only added to his own perplexity with the future. He opened his mouth to answer not knowing what he would say; what he might give up. But was saved as she continued, her eyes still downcast; his weakness unnoticed.

 

The dark brown eyes that finally rose to meet his own where no longer the smoke surface of enticement and forbidden promise he had seen earlier. Neither was there an Aes Sedai emotionless state about them. What he found was open clear windows to her soul and he drank into those pools deeply. Confusion and timidness swirled there; contrasted against the title he knew was rightfully hers. Would Sirayn ever offer such openness to me; would I her? Before him stood a beautiful women offering open honesty in her emotions; in herself. In a deep recess of his mind was born a dark thought briefly; how well he could wrap her to his finger and have his way. But it lasted less then a heartbeat before chivalry crushed it ruthlessly sending it back to the abyss. She was a friend a very close friend now; like a sister. Yes of course that’s it, a sister to love and look after but nothing more.

 

His free hand was stroking the back of her hand he still held while he had studied her eyes; shared so much of themselves in that silent stare. He would never forget her, she had seen to that whether planed or not it was done. “If you did truly entangle me Lavinya then I was a willing participant. This day …†his hand squeezed her’s slightly; a small sigh escaping him in the quiet pause. “This time will live in my mind for eternity as well. I have never met another like you and I can not imagine finding another. I hope today I made a friend …. A friendship I would very much like to see grow in the future. I ..†how could he put it. The grey eyes now framed in the ageless face of Sirayn bloomed before his vision; his eyes glanced over her toward the tower hidden behind the tree. How would he explain this when she found out; she always found out that which he most wanted unknown. He was not even sure he could face her without blurting it all out and begging for forgiveness. Yet he had no reason to beg; they had done nothing wrong. They may have started on the wrong track but found their way back; gained a friendship he hoped.

 

“All I can offer is friendship right now. This is but a start on a new journey, one I am glad to have the honor to walk.†His voice seemed almost laced with resignation and remorse but slowly a calmness was coming to his eyes. His gaze once more lowered to meet her’s as he tried to tame some of the run away emotion from his face. “If you ever need anyone to talk to; to listen. I will always be here for you as much as duty allows. You are a wonderful women Lavinya and I hope that through a friendship I can get to know even more of you.†His voice had taken on a more serious edge. Yet it was not an edge of duty or lecture, more concern and admiration. “You have so much to offer this world, including that beautiful open smile. I know it is the nature and a requirement of survival for an Aes Sedai to be able to hold emotion at bay; keep everything close and guarded inside.†He collected her other hand now; pressed them together, his rougher one’s surrounding tender skin in light emphasizing pressure. “But know there is a freshness about you greatly lacking in this world when that hardened shell is removed. Let the real you… this you, out when you can. It would be a shame to never see her again as I have now.â€

 

He held her hands still in that firm grasp, eyes intent on her’s, using the pause to ensure his words sunk in. To give her time to see in his eyes all he had spoken was true. “I mean what I said, if you ever find yourself in need … I will be here for you, little sister It was how he would have to force himself to see her until it became natural to him. If not he was sure he would fall to her simple charms and be lost forever.

 

 

Corin Danveer

Tower Guard

Tied to the Flame

Finding Focus Once More

Well Jocelyn,

 

I don't believe I've had the pleasure of meeting you .... yet *grin* It is a shame it is not under better circumstances .... As for you Rion, hiding behind her skirt will not help ... much.

 

*Mischieviously grins at Lavy* you are enjoying this aren't you. ;)

 

Linten

Corin listened with veiled interest to her every word. He had a plan that needed a spy and he was hoping to find the information he could use to turn this simple innocent child in that very role. How would she react when he finally positioned her into the trap? What would she think when she found out the price of her freedom and who it entailed? Indeed it was a very slippery slope he walked and caution was of the utmost importance. His hand absently brushed his left pocket where a forged letter lay nestled away as a backup. The overwhelming drive to see the stubborn old lady safe from harm had him walking roads he despised internally. Sirayn Sedai had him so wrapped around a cold uncaring finger that he was willing to do just about anything to see to her safety. Whether that was as despising as the out right corruption and blackmail of an innocent child or the simple matter of ignoring her wishes and warnings about staying away from her and having nothing to do with her. One way or another Sirayn, time will see me at your side as your blood shield and you will not be able to stop that. An oath he had repeated to himself several times since she had banished him from her sight at the cabin.

 

Faile’s voice suddenly trailing off drew him back from his stewing; noted the smile that lifted her face. She had said something that had meaning to her, deep meaning. He sifted through the conversation that had rattled on beside him while his mind had wandered. Berated himself for not paying proper attention. There had been something about stories and testing, but what was it? He worked to put the pieces together as she continued her story. Yes of course that’s it ….. She was happy to finally find meaning .. To be believed. Like a faceted jewel her turned the thoughts and words around in his mind while they stepped into yet another dark alley and followed to the left when it forked.

 

Garbage and debris lay scattered in piles along the wall; the air damp and heavy with an underlying stench. Slowing the pace slightly he plotted out an alternative to the letter in his pocket. There was a chance still that he might be able to accomplish this task without the need of it. His voice took on a soft fatherly sound , “the vast knowledge and opportunities the Tower holds is a wonder. Freedom from what may have been a simple life instead of the adventure one might crave. So many possibilities; unwritten stories of the future awaiting an author or heroin. It draws many to it’s splendid spires gleaming bold and white like light and truth. I am glad you were able to make the trip; to be entered in the book. So many do not, and then there are those that come…†He let the pause hang there in the silence of the alley; their footsteps reverberating off the rock walls of the surrounding buildings as they continued still deeper. “Some are sent away unfortunately. Back to what they would have been before the White Tower ever visited them. Sent away because they where not strong enough, not obedient enough, not useable enough. I can not imagine what that would feel like; to be cast out and know the future you might have had before those heavy doors close coldly on you.†He glanced back at her now, ready to draw in her expressions and movements as he set the first mental snare. “Can you imagine how that must feel Faile?â€

*rubs hands methodically* oh I can happily take care of that for you ;)

 

As for the soft comment .... You did fall completely prey to the preying mantis know as Lavi *grin*

 

Linten

I'll throw my hat into the ring for this ..... though I have no good idea at the moment. But there is still a lot of time so I can do some thinking.

 

Hey Mentor, perhaps if we dress you as a horse your other mentee could ride you to the Carnival and no one would suspect anything. ;)

 

Linten

Well Well Well ..... look what we have here. I found another thread about this RP. Since I am really not sure wich area you are using for this I will repeat Linten's discription here. Oh and Lavy ...... that whole something that has Sirayn upset with you, knows who is at fault there ....... the one with the Red hair. ;)

 

Name Linten al’Dracain

Age (will be about 25 for the thread)

Height 5’6â€

Build: Strong without being bulky or blocky.

 

Linten is a very confused and hardened individual right now. He originally arrived at the BT as a 22 year old shy quiet young man and was just beginning to come out of his shell under the guidance of his Mentor Isha when something snapped in him causing him to end up drawing steel on another member of the BT. In an attempt to help Linten sort out his issues and return to the man he was becoming Isha took him to the blight but was unable to reach the boy and left him there to his own demise. This time away and alone in the blight region has hardened him to life and a warped sense of duty.

 

He has light brown shoulder length hair and green eyes that once carried childhood innocence but now carry a cold offering of hatred. He deems anyone not willing to die for the Dragon worth less then the life of a street rat. Their purpose simple to support those who are. He will not go out of his way for a fight but will rarely back down for even the slightest opportunity toward violence. He has little use for the weak and is suspicious of most until they prove themselves to his liking. The only exception to this is a mixed feeling of hatred and admiration of his mentor Isha for what he tried to do and the fact he never returned to claim him from that misery.

 

His view on women is a dark one. He distrusts all women until he is sure they are not Aes Sedai. His view on Aes Sedai is a simple one, Enslave them or kill them, he has no preference unless they are Red and then the urge to kill is stronger. His distrust of Aes Sedai causes him to believe all are Red until time and actions prove otherwise. Most of this attitude has come from a combination of his slipped mind set and his time spent trying to avoid capture while returning to the BT.

 

If you have any question let me know.

 

Linten

Just remember if you do decide to hit on Isha .... he's the big ugly one not the short one. If I'm going to be around you Mentor I don't want them to get confused ;). LOL

 

Linten

Hey Death,

 

Yes I'm sure it will be interesting to say the least. I would love to say his out look on them has improved but infact it has in a way gotten harder. So I'm sure we will have an interesting conversation on it at some point. LOL :D Say Isha has volunteered to be in the recruiting party I am going to stumble across on my return. If you are interested you are more then welcome to join that party. ;)

 

As for you Lavy, you could only be so lucky as to have any time around Linten. He is far from the easy soft target's you are familiar with back in the yard. I would hate to be the one to set her in her place with a good beating. ;) Come to think of it she might like that :P *grin* I am so going to pay for this some where along the way aren't I

 

It will be interesting to see if any of the Aes Sedai in the Watchers RP will be up for the challenge with Linten *grin*. Of course I still have to meet up with the recruiting party and get my butt back to the BT so I can continue where I left off.

 

mwhahahahah

 

Linten

Linten listened to the wisdom Isha played out to him; felt himself become even more hollow and empty. How can he not understand the bitterness that eats at me hourly. The feeling of failure that I could not save the ones who needed me most. A dark empty room had more life then the sound of his voice, "if I could trade them places I would. My life is the Dragon's now, I have nothing left to live for. I was willing to live or die as he needed; but even that has no worth now." Cold streaks, bright red, from tears itched his skin as the salt dried it. His eyes remained on the forest line to the north, "I thirst for revenge; for blood. No longer is it for those that hurt my family, it is to cause pain and suffering to anything for the dark. Anything that hunts a man who can channel I thirst to destroy," even those Tar Valon witches. The finishing unvoiced thought caused his hands to close in tense fists.

 

He did not know why that thought had become so prevalent in the last week, but it seemed to consume him when ever the thought of an Aes Sedai came up. The Red were the ones that hunted men; but all where in an allegiance to the other and where another color might not out right hunt men as the Red did. He did not doubt they would turn them over to the Red as if passing a simple hand towel to be cleaned. Enslave them for the Dragon’s purpose or kill them were they stand. At one time it mattered … more and more the mattering is less. It almost disturbed him how easily he seemed to accept the cold thought; the voice in the dark that gave it life. How could Mother Earths embrace not be a better alternative then to have him loose in this world.

 

Looking back over his shoulder he watched as the gateway rotated into shape. His eyes scanned back to the grass near him where Isha had left his blade; watched the moon light reflect along it‘s edge. A reflection that offer peace and tranquility through violence. He reached out and closed his hand around the hilt; felt a completeness flood him. His eyes focused on the tree line dark and ominous in the near distance as the pulsing orb just out of sight called sweetly to him. The dark forest offered death and decay; somewhere in there answers called to him. He felt it's pull and welcomed the death and pain it promised as he rose to his feet. Saidin sung to him with an enticing voice; offered him power and pleasure unimaginable. Looking back toward his mentor one final time he turned his back to him; shoulders set and stepped out toward the dark. "I'm sorry Isha ..... I can’t ..... For the safety of others I can’t," his voice was quiet and distant; an edge of acceptance threaded throughout it.

 

 

Linten al'Dracain

BT Trainee, Lost mentee of Isha

Count me in as a name for the list if there is one. But I'm not cleaning up after Isha .... that's way to much to ask for. As for Rion ..... <EG> been a while old friend ;)

 

Let me know if anyone needs further information. In the mean time I will start perusing through the various threads I can fin on this.

 

Linten

Lost mentee of Isha

Hey all,

 

Been a long time but I think I am ready to bring Linten back out from under the dust and put him back in service.

 

Just thought I would drop a line to say Hi again and I will seen you around the place. :D

 

Linten

OOC: This is a recap of a larger post that can be found here on hte old boards: http://dmpsw.com/dr/viewtopic.php?t=518&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=0 This is to give the background on Linten's absence and set up the enviroment for his return.

 

IC:

 

He moved off into the darkness in the direction the frail fellow had gone; slivers of moonlight offering him a slight hint to the path he traveled. He held the cold isolation of the void still; emotionlessly he made his passage across the barren yard in search of Rion. A sudden pulse in the orb that floated over his shoulder brought him around quickly as he dropped into a ready stance; Saidin calling out to him with its sweet voice. Without thought he felt the taint role over his very soul; dark sickness, offering relentless suffering through death assaulted him and then faded into the background as the sweet life of the One Power flooded his senses once more.

 

His vision sharpened through the Power; searched the black horizon for a source. Something drew on Saidin; hungered for it and pulled at it like he had never felt. Fear battered on the void as a smith's hammer against hot steel. Fractures began to build a spider web across the void as it threatened to collapse. The river of life that was Saidin begged him, urged him on to match the draw but he refused it. Pushing the thought aside like a stray branch. What could draw that much ..... the thought lost as the sensation suddenly disappeared. Motionless Linten waited in the dark, Saidin at his ready yet he knew so little of it. As time pressed on and the silence remained he slowly returned to his normal stance. Nothing could be seen moving in night’s veil of darkness from where the sensation had come.

 

Turning back to the direction of his original travels he used the gift of sharpened vision that Saidin offered in exchange for the day it would consume his life. There in the distance he spotted the fellow once more, sitting with his hands wrapped around his legs. A cold twisted smile touched Linten's lips unbeknownst to him as he moved forward toward the shadowy shape. He released Saidin as he neared the man, the scouring decay of the taint trying to pull his life's thread with it. Rion suddenly rose to his feet, eyes searching the darkness that held Linten obscured for a brief moment. With eyes widening in disbelief and horror Rion backed slightly as Linten grew from the darkness before him.

 

"What do you....um..want. I um...am ....um...ssssorry I called you a monster. I didn't...um think... and I meant no....um offense I was just maa...making a..ppppoint. Please....it's just that....um..I didn't think..and the thi...things you said sent my mind scrambaling. It's um....I'm um...I apologize." His hands quickly moving behind his back. Linten already on edge from earlier, dropped once more into the ready, his mind's hand reaching uselessly toward Saidin. But the stark fear that radiated from the frail man's eyes was enough to bore through to Linten's mind and he relaxed his stance. Still in the void his voice came out cold and harsh, "Rion, it is not all your fault." As his voice met his own ears he realized the glacial edge it held and let his hold on the void slip away. Trying vainly to soften his voice but keep it from betraying the emotional whirlpool that tried to consume him; once more he addressed the man. Raising his hands slightly with his open palms up to try and calm the mans fears before he died of fright.

 

"Rion please ..... It was not your fault. You were only trying to speak your emotions, your thoughts ....." His voice began to drift toward a whisper as he almost lost himself to the emotions, "we are all men bound to emotion, cursed to its pain and anguish." His voice steadying and growing it's strength back, "I was wrong to force your hand as I did. Please forgive me, I mean you no harm. What you said hit ......" The tall imposing form that appeared from the darkness as shadow brought to life drew Linten’s attention away instantly. The void sprang up around Linten as his hand flew to the hilt over his shoulder only to close around air. He had forgotten he had left his sword driven into the ground out side the Inn.

 

It was Isha the shadow took form into; the weak hold on the void that Linten had just regained slipped like oil through his fingers as nervousness crept over his face. Only when he bumped into Rion's shoulder did he realized he had been backing up the whole time; his hand still clutching air over his shoulder. "I'd like a few words alone with Linten if you don't mind, Rion." The words slide across the dark expanse between them offering no warmth. Dread began to grow in the pit of his stomach as anger tried to take control of his hands. His mind was a wash of confliction; wanting to draw steel on the man who's very existence in the dark seemed to threaten him; to turn and run before the battle hardened vet could cut him down; to drop to his knee's before his mentor, asking for forgiveness, for purpose, for .... why.

 

 

OOC: Welcome back mentor

_________________

Corin Danveer

White Tower Guard

Promised to Sirayn Sedai

 

Linten al'Dracain

BT Trainee, Lost mentee of Isha

 

"Life is wonderful. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that we trouble over." - Isaac Asimov

 

 

ooc: thanks... it's good to be back...

 

ic:

 

As soon as Linten discovered someone was there his hand went to his sword hilt and he fumbled for a ready stance. But his hand gripped air and he backed away from the tall giant. 'Is he frightened of me now?' Isha thought, unsure of what emotions he felt, anger, disappointment, sadness, self-doubt and others flowed through his still turbulent mind. When the boy siezed the Source, Isha refrained from grabbing it as a reflex, he couldn't give his mentee any more reason to afraid of him.

 

"Where's your sword?" asked the Dedicated, voice devoid of emotion. "You'll need it yet tonight I don't doubt. Go get it then come back here. Now." the only emotion in those cold hard words was authority and the expectation to be obeyed and not even seeing the boy go, Isha turned to Rion.

 

"I'd like to apologise for not stopping Linten sooner. I'm not sure why he acted the way he did tonight, I've never seen him like that before. He's going with me now, and I hope I can knock some sense into him, however, if you ever want any help with training or anything else... just ask me, or Dash, I'm sure he'd oblige as well." The pause he left was dilberate, and with all Rion's intelligence he'd be able to understand what Isha was implying: learning to defend himself.

 

ooc: okay... Isha's going to manage a very poor Gateway and manage to take Linten and him away from the Tower (not saying yet...surprise...) and if he needs to be...he will face up to any punishment warranted by leaving Tower Grounds as a Dedicated...

_________________

Asha'man Isha Talcontar

Tallest, Ugliest Asha'man

Estel Sedai of the Blue Ajah

Promised to Orion, Bonded to Matthias

Lieutenant Carnhain Stromblade

Rowul's Nephew

ADL of the Band

Alianna Karalev, Former Thiefcatcher

The woman who lost everything

 

 

"Where's your sword?" The words hit Linten like a quarter staff and he released Saidin immediately. His mind recognized his mentors voice and a shocked cold enveloped him spurred on by the frosted edge in his voice. "You'll need it yet tonight I don't doubt. Go get it then come back here." Linten could feel the blood drain from his face as the words echoed in his mind. Was he really going to make Linten spar him, with real edges? How could he hope to survive against the battle-hardened vet. His body was frozen in place as fear grasped at him in the dark.

 

"Now." The word was not loud, not forced, not angry. It was flat and cold like steel; spoke of authority; challenged to be denied. Linten did not even remember his mentor turning, his feet moving his body at a dead run for the Inn. Racing through he dark he trip several times, tumbling across the ground only to regain his feet before the motion stopped and continue to the Inn. A slice of moon light lite the Inn and it's surrounding area; the sword glinting in it's soft glow. Skidding to a stop, a small dust cloud rising around his feet he pulled the sword free of the earths grip as he pivoted to leave.

 

Bolting back in the direction he came from he practically ran over someone; some form in the dark that he paid no attention to. Sliding the sword back into the scabbard over his shoulder as he made his way. His mind turned over and over with possibilities of what might come to pass once he returned to the spot where his mentor waited. Fear tried to freeze his mind from its icy ball in the pit of his stomach. He had been trying to apologies to Rion, now he was afraid of what his mentor's mind held for him. The scar that ran along his face seemed to create a sinister sneer in the dark with Linten's present mindset, adding to fear’s grip.

 

Skidding to a stop in front of his mentor’s stone carved face; Linten opened his mouth to explain what he was doing. To inform his mentor that he had been out here to apologies to Rion; that Isha had surprised him. He would never have acted like that had he known the man was the one materializing from the shadows of darkness. But before the sound could escape his panting throat his mentor cut him off, the words strangled in his throat

_________________

Corin Danveer

White Tower Guard

Promised to Sirayn Sedai

 

Linten al'Dracain

BT Trainee, Lost mentee of Isha

 

"Life is wonderful. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that we trouble over." - Isaac Asimov

 

 

Swinging around in time to face the man hurtling at them, Isha looked coldly upon his mentee. Seeing the sword above Linten's shoulder, Isha grunted a recognition, cutting off what the boy had been about to say, and swung back to Rion. "I suggest you get some sleep, Rion. Good night."

 

Then, without a word, Isha strode off into the night. By the grass and dirt stains on Linten's black coat and breeches, he had run the entire way and tripped numerous times. 'Is he that afraid of me?' Isha thought, his mind a maelstrom of emotions yet none touching his face.

 

The towering Dedicated had no idea whether Linten tried to talk to him or not, and if he did Isha ignored him, so the entire walk seemed longer and worse than it really was, at least it seemed worse to Isha.

 

Finally arriving at their destination, Isha noted the surprise in Linten's face as they arrived at the Travelling Grounds. He hoped he could do this, he thought he could. Stepping over the rope that separated the Travelling Grounds from the rest of the Tower, the Shienaran siezed saidin.

 

Dipping through the oily, slick Taint into the fire beneath, Isha pulled deeply on the One Power. More and more he took into himself until he held nearly as much as he had before by the inn. The bliss was so much it was pain and only iron self-control kept him from drawing more and burning himself out and probably destroying at least part of the Tower and Linten along with it.

 

Then, weaving pure Spirit as he had seen countless Asha'man do before he made a Gateway. It took far longer for him than it did them to make the vertical slash rotate into a small hole in the Pattern even Linten would have to duck through.

 

Bending almost double, Isha stepped through the Gateway onto a large plain of grass. To the South, a city with its keep rising high off the rolling grassland could be seen, and to the north thick forest.

 

Even though it was summer, a chill winds blew through the land around Fal Dara and bit through the black wool of the two men's coats, though they ignored it. Everything was covered in shadow, and only the howl of the wolves in the hills let the giant man know no Trollocs or Myrdraal prowled the night.

 

Letting the weave dissipate behind Linten, Isha strode off once more, looking back only to check that Linten was right behind him.

 

After an hour's walk, they found themselves on the top of a hill, overlooking Fal Dara. There, a single gravestone, only slightly weathered, jutted out from the blowing grass. On it read simply 'May the last embrace of the Mother welcom you home General Faerthines Talcontar'.

 

After a moment of silence in which time memories flooded through Isha's mind almost bringing him back to tears, the Dedicated spoke, his voice tight and dry from the effort it took to conceal his emotions from the younger man beside him.

 

"I don't know why you did what you did tonight, or why you no longer believe in hope, but maybe I can knock some sense into your brain. I don't know where you father's grave is, but this is my father's. He died fighting the Shadow because he knew that there was still hope for humankind to rid the world of the Shadow and live in peace, even if it wasn't in his lifetime, or mine, or even my children's liftime. He fought for the hope of the world? I fight for the same as he and to make sure that his death doesn't extinguish that hope. What do you fight for Linten? Have you forgotten your father? Have you forgotten why you are even at the Tower? Maybe you should start questioning yourself instead of others. Maybe you can find the answers you're looking for in you."

_________________

Asha'man Isha Talcontar

Tallest, Ugliest Asha'man

Estel Sedai of the Blue Ajah

Promised to Orion, Bonded to Matthias

Lieutenant Carnhain Stromblade

Rowul's Nephew

ADL of the Band

Alianna Karalev, Former Thiefcatcher

The woman who lost everything

 

 

Everything seemed so ominous in the darkness; shadows from the moon’s light slid and wavered. The light natural sounds from the surrounding plain and forests creatures twisted in his mind to create danger and fright in the darkest of nights black pools. Linten found himself having to take a hurried step to keep up with the tall Shienaran’s strides as he stalked through the yard. They where moving away from the training grounds and the barracks. Is he so determined to punish me that he wants no one else to see his wrath unleashed. The though tried to pull his feet back, to turn them and run. Only sheer determination forced his body forward behind the silent shadow moving with purpose in front of him. He had done this to himself, no one else was to blame; everything he received was at his own hand’s doing.

 

As they arrived at the familiar traveling grounds, puzzlement painted Linten’s face as he sought out his mentor’s eyes. Only to find his back as he stepped over the rope and into the grounds. Why would he take him here to met more arrivals, the way the last had gone it made no sense. The sensation of Isha seizing Saidin brought Linten’s eyes up, his attention focused on his mentor. Asha’man created gateways not Soldiers or Dedicated; the thought brought back the ice of fear in his stomach. He had pushed his mentor so far that he was using the grounds to mask what he was about to do to his mentee with the power. Linten steeled himself in the void and prepared for Isha’s wrath.

 

Instead the familiar pinpoint of light appeared before the man and slowly elongated into a slice. With a wavering unsteady motion it began to rotate open. Linten’s mouth was practically hanging open in shock. His mentor so at a lost with his mentee was taking him away form the Tower, away to …. With the thought frozen in the front of his mind Linten ducked and stepped through the small opening in front of him wondering if he would ever see the Black Tower again. The chill in the wind as he appeared in the field the gateway was set to bit through the black cloth and scratched at the void. It was like nowhere Linten had ever seen. A keep stretched out high above to the south and a thick dark forest to the north. Yet he had little time to orient himself as Isha continued in his solemn progress, once again on the move. He looked back and Linten though perhaps now he would find out what was to happen to him. Yet it was a brief glance to ensure he still followed.

 

There arrival at the top of a small hill was noted only by the single cold head stone of a grave. Isha seemed to take a moment to gather thoughts or perhaps prepare himself to meet his mentee. Linten took the time to read the stone, the last name drawing a quick sideways glance at his mentor. Could this be …. Isha’s words again cut off his thoughts, his voice sounding as if he fought to keep it empty. “What do you fight for Linten?†The words brought confusion to his mind as he looked up from the grave to the flat emotionless eyes of his mentor. Tightness showed at the edges, else Isha’s face seemed a stone carving devoid of emotion. He started to open his mouth, to tell the man he had not even had the time to place a proper marker at his fathers head, especially not stone to endure all time with his memory. “Have you forgotten your father?†The question could have been cold steel run deep through his heart for the effect it left. Linten sunk to his knee’s before the grave, his eyes back on the soft grass covered mound before him, redness rimed them, tears on the verge of spilling down his face. How could the man say that? How could he even possible think he could forget his father. His hands clenched in his lap, knuckles whitening under the strain; teeth clamped shut tight. “Have you forgotten why you are even at the Tower? Maybe you should start questioning yourself instead of others. Maybe you can find the answers you're looking for in you." Anger, hot as a blacksmiths forge surged up in him as the words continued to twist the blade in his heart. He made it sound like Linten had forsaken the light, embraced the Father of Lies. Fury flared in his eyes as he slowly rose to his feet his eyes still down and turned away as if to leave.

 

With a sudden shift his hand had the blade sliding free of it’s sheath and slicing toward Isha as he spun back in a some what jerky movement. The clang as his blade met the solid block of Isha’s echoed in the silence of the hill top. But it reverberated in his head and shattered the anger that threatened to overwhelm him; anger that seemed to be fed from something unseen, uncontrolled. The sound of the metal blades that normally offered death, here offered life. With his eyes going wide in shock at what he had done, Linten dropped the sword and ran down the hill toward the forest’s edge. He only made it about half way down before he fell to his knee’s, shoulders shaking as sobs wracked his body; tears flowing freely to darken the thighs of his black uniform.

_________________

Corin Danveer

White Tower Guard

Promised to Sirayn Sedai

 

Linten al'Dracain

BT Trainee, Lost mentee of Isha

 

"Life is wonderful. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that we trouble over." - Isaac Asimov

 

 

 

Linten sunk to his knees as Isha’s questions bit colder than the wind that tried to rip their black coats from their backs. From what the monstrous man could see of his mentee’s covered face, it was tight and emotions played across it ever changing between anger, sadness and loss. Quick as lightning though, anger prevailed over the others as steel shone frostily in the light of the Shienaran moon.

 

Rather than seizing the Source- making that small tiny Gateway had taken almost all the strength he had and he maintained the Void partly because it kept the exhaustion at bay- he drew his sword. Linten’s strike met Unfolding the Fan as Isha drew and blocked in the same motion. Smoothly, the sword cut the air as it swung to Isha’s high shoulder is Lion on the Hill, he prayed that his mentee- even in his state of emotional confusion- would have the sense to not attack again, Linten barely knew how to use the steel he had bared twice tonight already and Isha had had lessons even before he had come to the Tower and bettered his skills.

 

However after a moment of fury, Linten’s face turned from red to pale as quickly as a Myrdaal’s blade could run you through. Dropping the blade, he hurtled down the hill falling after going only halfway. Picking up the fallen blade, the Dedicated followed slowly.

 

The vast emptiness and silence of the plains was broken by the sobs coming from the shadowed, shaking body of the Soldier lying on the ground. Here, but a few miles south of the Blightborder, where hope was often the only thing that kept these Borderlanders going was a man who had lost all hope in his fight, the Creator and mankind itself.

 

Isha sat down, the boy’s blade across his knees, and watched as tears streamed down Linten’s face. ’What is he crying over? His father? Or my words? Am I being too harsh?’ Questions. So many questions. How come there were always questions but no answers?

 

“Why have you lost hope, Linten?†his voice was soft and held none of the edge it had before. “Hope is all I’ve ever had since my father’s death and my life is fine even though I hunger for vengeance I can never satisfy, yet still I hope. Where’s you hope? Hope is all we have, don’t loose it.â€

_________________

Asha'man Isha Talcontar

Tallest, Ugliest Asha'man

Estel Sedai of the Blue Ajah

Promised to Orion, Bonded to Matthias

Lieutenant Carnhain Stromblade

Rowul's Nephew

ADL of the Band

Alianna Karalev, Former Thiefcatcher

The woman who lost everything

 

 

 

The quiet arrival of his mentor went unnoticed by Linten as the tension, the lose, the questions; all his emotions streamed out in the tears that ran down his face and soaked the thighs of his black pants. So much anger held for so long; loss that slowly ate away at his inner control; unanswered questions that drove sleep from him night after night. The grave and his mentor's words had driven him to the point of a balloon pricked by a pin; all the tension exploded from him in the instant their swords had met.

 

“Why have you lost hope, Linten?†The words floated through the fog, disembodied and soft, offering warmth and understanding. He turned tear blurred red eyes toward his mentor as he sat cross-legged beside him, the soft glint of bare steel in his lap. Through the distorted image his eyes brought to his mind he made the blade to be his own, the one he had drew on his own mentor. How far had he slide, did he even recognise the boy before him anymore? Slowly his eyes climbed to meet his mentor's, the words wrapping around him as arms of strength offering caring, understanding, support. “Hope is all I’ve ever had since my father’s death and my life is fine even though I hunger for vengeance I can never satisfy, yet still I hope. Where’s you hope? Hope is all we have, don’t loose it.â€

 

His voice sounded distant; hollow to his own ears, "hope seems to elude me mentor. It plays on the edge of my mind, forces me to chase it in vain; mocks me." He looked slowly across the land toward the forests edge, "darkness seems to shadow my every move. Drives questions in front of me I can not answer, I can not escape," the last coming as a whisper. "It's like I've never stopped fighting, I'm so very tired ..... Some nights as I lay awake I welcome eternal slumbers loving arms. To finally rest, to sleep." His eyes once more sought out Isha's, "how can I have hope when all I crave is separation from the pain?"

_________________

Corin Danveer

White Tower Guard

Promised to Sirayn Sedai

 

Linten al'Dracain

BT Trainee, Lost mentee of Isha

 

"Life is wonderful. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that we trouble over." - Isaac Asimov

 

 

 

Drenn and Isha both made their feelings of him known to him, finally. Not that he didn't already feel it in every glance, or word spoken to him. Not that he couldn't feel their dislike as if it were waves of static negativity washing over him. So what? He cared for the Black Tower, he just didn't care for all of the repercussions of being a male channeller. Thinking of them as something special or even equal to the Aes Sedai was a huge mistake. Yes, the Lord Dragon seemed awesome in strength and Power, his adventures seemed like those out of stories his mother used to tell him before bed when he was young. Even still, being apart of the Lord Dragon's stories hadn't sunken in.

 

Dark eyebrows shot up to the ceiling as Drenn apologised to Onyx. Quickly averting his eyes and attempting an icy stare, the Andoran Dedicated mumbled. "Don't worry about it, man." How was he going to act cold towards men that were trying to reconcile with him? Dedicated Isha suprised him next. The huge Shienaran ,who must have been enraged that his Mentee had chosen Onyx's example to follow, apologised as well. Luckily, Onyx didn't have to do or say anything because Isha simply nodded to him and followed Lintin and Rion out the door.

 

"Burn me!" He cursed. "I'm not here to make any bloody friends!" He yelled. Covai and Dashiva seemed to turn from their conersation for a moment and eyed Onyx as if he had interrupted them. Atleast, Drenn was there to hear him. Perhaps he could go back on what he said...no, Onyx never did that. He could kill a man out of pure rage, with the addition of untrained Saidin searing through his veins, but he could never go back on his word. The Andoran was loyal, now all of his brothers knew it. Brothers? Had he actually thought that word. Impossible.

 

SHaking his head in disgust, he threw up his hands in frustration and stormed out the door. Immediately he could feel someone channelling and headed in that direction. It was dark, but being aware of men that could channel seemed to come fairly easily to him. Nodding to himself, he could definately feel that there was probably more than one man that could channel up ahead. Instead of running up to see what other kind of tasks he could do to blow his cover, he hung back in the shadows and listened. Leaning back against a tree, with his features casting shadows on his face from the moonlight, Onyx's eyes glistened in the dark.

 

 

Onyx Drakor

Dedicated

 

 

OOC: Someones gotta tell on you, right? Muahahahaha

_________________

Serena Morrigan- Aes Sedai of the Blue Ajah~Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

Onyx Drakor~Dedicated

 

 

 

“’Duty is heavier than a mountain, death light as a feather.’ Would you die and leave your father unavenged? Would you throw away your life when there is so much you can do yet? There is power within you, boy that many men would crave to have even if it does carry the price it carries. The Dragon Reborn doesn’t have the One Hundred Companions anymore, but he has us. The world’s hope is in the Dragon Reborn, but even he had no hope if we won’t stand by him. Even madmen are better than nothing against the Dark One. Will you leave the rest of your loved ones to die by the Shadow’s Hand, just like your father? Will you run away like a coward? Or will you fight like the man you are? It’s your choice boy, you can return with me to the Farm now, or you can run away from it all and I won’t stop you.â€

 

Standing, Isha seized saidin and drew deeply as he prepared to weave a Gateway once more. He hoped Linten would follow him, but he would be true to is word and if the boy left, Isha wouldn’t chase him.

 

ooc: hehe...Isha's getting in trouble...maybe I'll turn him into the next Estel since she's been raised

_________________

Asha'man Isha Talcontar

Tallest, Ugliest Asha'man

Estel Sedai of the Blue Ajah

Promised to Orion, Bonded to Matthias

Lieutenant Carnhain Stromblade

Rowul's Nephew

ADL of the Band

Alianna Karalev, Former Thiefcatcher

The woman who lost everything

 

 

____________________________________________

Corin Danveer

Tower Guard

Tied to the Flame

 

Linten al'Dracain

BT Trainee, Lost mentee of Isha

â€Noâ€, it was no more then a faint breathy whisper but it stilled every fiber in his being. His heart; a confusion mass of emotional tension and turmoil leaped with elation at the word. Two simple letters that brought life in full to part of that tangled mass and horror to the other. A small word that elicited a state of complete fervent turbulence in him. Frozen he held his eyes to the far wall; unable to face her. Control was a steep slippery slope and he feared if he met her eyes again he may not be able to walk away. Her words only added layers to the confusion that gripped him. He sensed her move from his side and fought to hold his eyes in place until her face filled his vision and her chestnut brown eyes pulled the last shreds of resolve from him. In a movement so simple she had completely crushed his ability to resist falling through those deep pools of emotion and offering; surrendering his gaze to her as she trapped his hand in warm pressure.

 

“No pain“, his mind played those sweet trembling words that she had spoken. Rolled them around in his head feeling an elated relief well from those wonderful words. She could not have chosen better words to bring relief to him; but that relief carried the high price of added questions and bewilderment. Why did he feel so much for her? Why did he need to hear those words; feel such relief from them? His path had already been set out before him. A path that tied his life to Sirayn Sedai and the greater purpose the Light and the Tower held. How was it another could have slipped into that safe wall built around him secure in the knowledge of where his life would end. He had sensed nothing of her method yet now felt great concern about her wellbeing.

 

The tremble in her voice, the long pauses; her mouth working silently. She held him on the edge of every word; eyes still fused to hers. “how cold and empty I am inside,“ his head shook involuntarily; he had felt the warmth, the raw heat she held and shared. It was impossible for her to be cold inside and so comfortingly warm outside. The picture just did not match the women he had met; been so enticingly entwined with. How could anyone hate this wonderfully sensitive woman? The whole thought seemed misplaced and disjointed when applied to the redhead before him. Who could have caused her so much pain that she would see herself in such a negative light; heap such invalidating beliefs upon herself.

 

His fingers interlaced with her’s; slight pressure to tell her she was safe even as she cast her eyes to the ground. Finally she continued but her words still seemed foreign when placed next to the woman he had met this morning. "I apologised because it is wrong of me to catch you up in my vulnerabilities“, the women he had met at the fountain was anything but vulnerable. She had been strong, confident and sure of her place and the path of the sun. There was a strength in her that had been bold and showed a future made of her own will not the will of others. With a hesitative meekness she raised her head to look into his eyes once more glassed with tears on the verge of release. She laid her soul before him and he was not sure how to build back up the shattered woman he now found in his presence. Even as the first tear finally freed itself from her lashes and began its slow procession down a smooth and tear streaked cheek his heart broke anew with her pain.

 

For a long moment he remained lost in her eyes; reading emotion and complete openness like he had never seen in eyes before. The sparkle of white glistening stone brilliant in full sun pulled at the corner of his eye. This was the type of position Sirayn would have grasped in a hard grip. Secured a complete and utter surrender from her victim. Yet he could not follow her teaching this time; not with Lavinya. Sirayn was in there somewhere amongst it’s rooms and corridors. Going about her business of preparing the world for The Great Battle. Soon if not already, she would hear of the garden and his indiscretion. By all accounts he should have left before; been at a mad run away from Lavinya now. But Lavinya’s exposed assailable condition held his feet rooted in place and his focus on her needs. Sirayn had made him wait often and now for the first time since meeting her Corin believed it was time she waited. The women before him need strength; to be uplifted and believed in. To leave now would only cause further hurt and possibly scar her further in life. It was the story he told himself in an attempt to ease the constant battle that still waged in him over the position he placed himself in. A lie unspoken to hide the truth of a heart that had begun to find a warmth it should not know in a women that was not dark haired and grey eyed.

 

If there was ever a time he needed counseling and guidance on the ways of women and emotions it was now. Alone and on ground unfamiliar he stepped out on a purpose still unperceived in his own mind. With soft strong tones he broke the silence between them, “Lavinya, I do not know this person you speak of. I have seen only a wonderful caring woman full of life and love. I can not change the past.†His free hand raised to brush the remnants of tears on her cheeks; whished he could dry the ones welling in her eyes. “You are not the only one with a past that has parts they would like to keep hidden in the dark. We all carry secrets, it is part of what we have become.†His hand slipped lightly down her back and he pulled her close; felt her heart beat against him and the scent of her hair fill his nostrils. He could not look into those eyes any longer with out risk of never returning. “I am glad you also found a feeling; a sense that had not been since before this place. It seems we have both found a benefit in our meeting.†Confusion still clouded reasonably clear thought. Silence stretched out between them as he held her close to him, felt the moisture of her tears soak though his shirt.

 

I have a life already offered several times to one who will not accept me; will hardly notice I exist beyond a mere boy to run her errands. Why can’t she be like this. Close and warm in arms meant to protect her. But here in her stead a woman who seems to need protection more then I can offer; in ways I can not offer. What am I to do, I am lost to myself more then ever before. The battle continued to rage inside of him as he held her close in silence. “I will not leave you to fall alone Lavinya. I can not.†His body betrayed the thought to life in a hushed whisper over her head. Inside a crushing sensation seemed to be determined to turn his heart into a liquid puddle; to ooze out onto the tender green grass. His being, his training, his respect for her would not allow his feet to move from this place until he had found away to restore her strength of will and brazen spirit. Only now a tremble of fear swept over all the emotions that waged inside. A fear of loosing himself to her; entering a path he could not afford to take. It had to be the creator’s own sense of irony that in his attempt to save her he needed her to save him from himself even more.

 

 

Corin Danveer

Tower Guard

Tied to the Flame

Lost to himself and the future

Corin watched as Dorian seemed to hesitate; to concentrate on the spar behind him. Deneira and his twin locked in battle. It was more intense then he would have expected at this stage of the boys training. She seemed to have a habit of driving the boy hard; several times Corin thought to take her to task on Danian’s training. She was to train the boy not break him completely so he was useless to the Tower. His eyes widened in shock and his right hand raised empty in front as if to catch the boy across the yard. He watched as Dorian turned, drawing blade and lunged toward Deneira. Already his feet where in motion at a run toward the madness, this can’t be happening. Watched in mid stride as the wooden lathe crashed into the side of his mentees head; twisting it hard with the impact. Dorian crumpling like a wet sack to the ground at her feet. The boy was no match at this stage for her, but he had hoped to spare him the trip to the infirmary. Continuing at a run he watched as Deneira laid into Danian again, the sound of his nose breaking echoed in his ears. “Stop it!†Deep commanding authority welled in the tones as he yelled at the guard standing over the boy. Enough was enough, the women had to learn limits and he would reinforce that if need be. Just what we need, a trip to the Commander and Mistress of Trainees. Not the way I wanted to make and impression.

 

Deneira seemed to pay him no attention as she finished her insults toward the one twin and then turned toward Dorian. All honey in her voice as she assisted him to his feet and tried to spin her tale. Corin did not know what she hoped to gain from this little endeavor of hers but he was certain the twin would not fall for it. They were too inseparable, one was never going to believe the other was the cause of hardship. The harsh words and movements of Dorian confirmed his suspicion as he kept his face an empty mask void of emotion. “Dorian enough! You do not utter threats you can’t back up with action, and you never threaten a guard of the Tower, no matter the circumstance,†the boy pushing away his hand he tried to rest it on his shoulder. Deneira seemed to surveyed the boy’s and then tried to round on him like she was in the right as Dorian scrambled over to his brothers side.

 

“You have the right to train the boy in the laws and rules of the Yard and the Tower. You have the right to teach the boy about our duties and ties to the Tower and it’s occupants. You even have the duty to train the boy and make him in to a useful tool the Tower can use. But you, Deneira, most certainly DO NOT have the right to batter him for your own personal vengeance.†The stress he put on some of those words would have made the point on it’s own to most trainees and newly raised guards. Yet it seemed to slide off her like water off a ducks back; cold fierce gaze still lock on him challengingly. “Further more, what in the bloody name of the light did you think to gain from that little trick. I should have your butt before the MOT and see how she views your treatment of her charges.†He stepped closer, taking the time to emphasis each word, “if you try that with one of my mentees I will have you publicly drawn and quartered . You think you are so good try someone trained and see how well you fair.†His eyes remained focused and locked on Deneira as he addressed Dorian, “you and your brother both report to the infirmary. I will join you shortly, and Dorian. If you ever draw steel on a guard again, this will seem like a stubbed toe in comparison to the justice I will drop on you. Now move!†He could hear the boy’s rising to their feet again, but his focus remained on the dangerous woman in front of him.