*waves* Me please, NSW Gray Sitter

Evaida al'Marnae

Aes Sedai

Gray Ajah

I'm off for 3 weeks creating 'havoc' in Europe  ;)

Apologies to those I owe posts to, will get straight on to it when I get back.

They could have been mistaken for an Aes Sedai and her warder had someone looked in on them. Evaida casually threading her needlework and Leawen reading to her, in what would have appeared to be a picture of serenity but had anyone stayed long enough they would have felt the tension in the air. Eva listened intently as Leawen continued his tale, she almost jumped when it came to an abrupt end, the trainee slamming the book shut, despite the fact he wasn’t actually reading it. The look he shot her had gave Eva the feeling that he blamed her for the words that he spoke, which only made her more curious about what he had been implying.

“I think I can smell lunch. Should I get us something to eat, Aes Sedai? Do you want something to drink? Wine? Water? I can always continue with that tale after we have eaten.” he barely left a pause long enough for her to answer

“Wine would be lovely thankyou Leawen. I look forward to the continuation of your story” Eva watched as the trainee bowed and practically ran out of the room, she smiled to herself as the door closed behind him. Leawen was playing right into her hands, at this rate she would have no trouble keeping him in line. The interesting thing about Daes Daemar was the effects it had on different people, with Leawen, he would be too busy running errands and such, trying not to say something she could use without even realising what he was doing.

Evaida took the opportunity to put a ward on the door, at least this time she would know when Leawen returned. It was not too long before she felt the tell tale tingle on the back of her neck, someone was standing outside her door, but they certainly were taking their time in making their presence known. Eva embraced Saidar and prepared a shield weave, there was no such thing as being too cautious. When Leawen finally came through the door she let the weave dissipate. She watched him carefully as he entered and placed the meal on the table. She did not ask what had taken him so long despite her curiosity, provoking him would not help her cause. The silence stretched as they sat down to eat, that was until Leawen plucked up the courage to say something “So, why have you taken me along on this mission. And what is this mission about anyway?”

Eva merely looked over her wine glass at him deciding how much she should tell. It was none of his business, she had already made that clear to him. However he was no Warder so simply brushing him off would not do any good particularly with a trainee as strong headed as Leawen. Evaida let the question hang for awhile, if she was to answer it he would know that she had only given him certain details. “I have brought you along on this mission because you have the skills required to carry it out” Eva thought carefully about what she said, being bound by the oaths she could not lie but it would do nothing for her cause if Leawen found out he was merely there because she had no choice in the matter “As for the mission itself… it is a civil conflict, a bargain turned sour you might say”. There were some things he didn’t need to know and there were some things that he shouldn’t know, the last thing Evaida wanted was the trainee to meddle in things and the less he knew the less likely he was to do so.

“That Altaran man, you said he had secrets…” she paused a moment hoping it would be enough to prompt Leawen to continue, failing that “What kind of secrets could an Aes Sedai not fathom? The White Tower is the home of secrets, surely what this man carries could not compare” She knew he had been hiding something from the day she first met him, it surprised her somewhat that he would admit it even if it was through a story or just a slip of the tongue, it was a mystery just begging to be investigated. “We all have secrets Master Leawen, I doubt the Aes Sedai in your story would be without furtive tale or two herself”

The boat rocked gently as the moved further and further away from the safety of Tar Valon. Strangely Evaida felt no fear or hesitation at leaving what had become her home over the years. It had begun to feel more like a prison of late locked away in her rooms for hours on end with menial administrative work. It was somewhat encouraging being entrusted with a task outside of the Tower, and she felt prepared. Her needlework was a rather intricate vine pattern that would cuff a sleave of a dress she intended to have made if she ever found the time. Deftly working the needle through the fabric she waited for Leawen to start. He murmured something about interesting literature before launching into a story she knew was not in the book.

She did not stop him, after all Leawen did have a certain flare with words, Eva simply listened as he began his story. Stone cold heart? Eva had no doubt the characters in the tale were meant to them, but it amused her slightly that he considered her cold, that and he implied that she had some feelings for him. She watched him steadily from across the desk

“What?” he asked in mock-innocence, Eva just gazed back at him. She was about to say that his words did not come from the literature and that he should try reading what was written on the pages rather than speaking of the thoughts that were quite obviously running through his head, but she hesitated. Instead “That is a rather foolish woman to be riding out in the rain like that. Her heart could not have been that cold if all it took was one look from a man to thaw it” she settled back in her chair turning her attention back to the needlework “Perhaps the Aes Sedai is not as cold as others may perceive, perhaps… she is simply cautious.” Immediately wishing she could take the words back Eva lightened her tone “Alas do not let my cynicism get in your way Master Leawen, please do continue. This Altaran man sounds quite fetching let us hear more of him, perhaps he is sheltering in the barn because he is petrified of water too” she ended the sentence with a slight grin, she was not about let go what footing she had gained, Leawen was treading on dangerous ground and Eva felt it only fair to warn him.

Evaida could play this game just as well as Leawen could and she would let him continue so far as he did not cross the boundaries. Besides that she was curious to know where he would take it, there was nothing the man could do to unsettle her, at least nothing that she would allow him to even consider anyway.

The sound of water gently lapping at the ships hull was soothing. Evaida watched as the horses were loaded and once they were secure she found her way to the bow of the boat. She left Leawen to his thoughts when they boarded, he seemed a little pre-occupied and Eva had better things to do than hold the trainee’s hand for the entire journey. Safe in the harbour the water was calm but looking past the walls of Tar Valon the Erinin flowed swiftly to the Sea of Storms. Shouts rose up from the docks as the ship cast off and gently drifted to the harbour mouth. Eva felt a slight rise of excitement as they moved towards the Erinin.

For while she watched as they coasted through the south harbour passing smaller vessels and it wasn’t too long before the rapid waters of the river hit and began carrying them downstream. The countryside would be much the same for the rest of the journey so Eva found her way down to her cabin. She was out of the Tower now but there was no shortage of paper work to catch up on and reports would have to be sent at the next town they reached. Settling at her desk Eva leafed through the letters regarding the case she would be attending to in Murandy. It seems the woman who caused the whole mess was a slight bit flighty and her father was more than a little stubborn. Eva could only guess what challenges she may face when she reached their destination but there may have been something worth while in the letters that she may have missed and every clue helped.

Tipping some sand on the paper to help the ink dry Eva re-read her notes. She was re-inking her quill when there was a knock on the door. This time it caught her by surprise, she had not put the usual ward on the door so she did not sense the visitor before he knocked. She called him in, it was Leawen of course, there was no other on the vessel that would dare disturb a sister. Continuing her work she let the intruder stand for sometime before paying him any head, even then it was just a glance. She had leverage now, his dissipated stares and smooth words did not phase her. For the most part Eva ignored him but when Leawen dropped one of her stockings in front of her it was hard to keep her composure. She bit back the words that she would have used to berate him and instead calmly removed the stocking and continued reading her notes.

“I have not forgotten that night Master Leawen, and you should do well to hold on to that memory for such things will not happen again.” She regarded him coolly over the papers before turning her focus back to their words. “Do I hope you have learned more than how to irritate an Aes Sedai or flirt with a stocking since that night, for such skills will not be required of you.” Dipping her pen Eva jotted a few more notes on her paper before dusting it once more. “Perhaps you could make yourself useful, there is a book in my saddlebags” she waved in the general direction of where she had left them “The other side Leawen” Evaida instructed when the trainee went to delve through the pocket from whence the stocking had come.

Retrieving some stitch work from the desk draw Eva waited for Leawen to take a seat on the other side of the desk. Settling back she began threading occasionally looking up at the man that sat opposite her. “Why don’t you read some out aloud” Evaida suggested, she knew very well how Leawen disliked being given orders particularly tasks he considered beneath him, but Eva simply watched daring him to do otherwise.

Sai frisked as they entered the streets of Tar Valon, it seemed the stallion was just as pleased to get out as Evaida was. She needn’t look back to know that Leawen was following, he was foolish but not foolish enough to disregard the orders of an Aes Sedai no matter who she was. However she was a little disheartened to see that her attempts to lighten the mood had completely failed, the trainee’s silence was just one sign of that.

Something that did surprise Eva though was what came out of Leawen’s mouth next ”… I must advise you that I am not ready for such a task.”. It was partly that he was willing to admit such a thing – though she doubted he truly believed it – and partly the fact that was exactly what she had told the Mistress of Trainees when she found out it was he that would accompany her. Of course the other woman had assured her that Leawen was more than ready and would be able to handle any challenges they may come across but Eva had her doubts. The man had a hard time keeping his hands off anything in a skirt long enough to be of any use. That aside, ultimately neither of them had a choice in the matter, Evaida would not be allowed out of Tar Valon without an escort and Leawen was the only one left.

Continuing through the streets, Eva carefully pawed over Leawen’s words, he was trying to get out of his duties but why? Did he despise her that much that he would bruise his own ego to avoid her? She was still trying to piece together the puzzle when Leawen reached over and drew Sai’s reins. The stallion was well trained and his ears flattened as he kept walking, it was only a slight shift in Eva’s seat that brought the horse to a halt. She stared at the trainee as he sat back in his saddle, if looks could kill Leawen’s next breath would have been his last. He was testing her and she did not appreciate it.

What Evaida heard next almost broke her calm façade. Words that she least expected to come from any man let alone Leawen ”… I am scared.” Her brow quirked before she could control it, she realised now he truly was desperate. Leawen was literally begging!

“I… I can keep afloat for a little. But… ships… and rivers as huge as this one… and so much water…”

Being Tearian it had never occurred to Eva that someone could be afraid of water, she had grown up around boats and the sea, sailing was in her blood – even if she preferred dry land. His hand was clutching at her skirts now like a child clinging to its mother.

"Please, send me back and take another trainee along. Or let us ride."

If not for her Aes Sedai training Eva would have grinned, this couldn’t have worked out better had she planned it herself. The Game of Houses had become somewhat of a hobby of Eva’s of late and Leawen just handed her leverage on a silver platter. She looked at Leawen then at his hand that remained on her skirts and waited. It did not take long for him to realise his hand remained where it was not wanted. Once Leawen had his hands to himself Eva signalled Sai forward “Do not be ridiculous Leawen, I do not have the time nor the patience for your games” she knew very well he wasn’t playing but this was far to great an opportunity to pass up. “You have been selected for this task and you will see it through” Eva could see the trainee hesitate out the corner of her eye, she was at the end of the alley when he finally allowed his horse to move.

“Are you afraid a touch of sea sickness will damage your manly reputation?” she mused before disappearing around the corner. They were only a few streets away from the south harbour and it would be easy enough to loose the ‘tagalong’ in the crowed. She liked having the upper hand but Eva was not cruel enough to further the man’s already rising panic, if he returned to the Tower having lost a Sister he would have greater fears to face than a little water.

Finding a rise on the street Evaida waited for Leawen to catch up, the vista looked over the harbour with all it’s ships and sails. The gaping harbour mouth stood open allowing vessels of various sizes in and out of the great haven and the Erinin. The ship they were destined for was the largest at port, it’s sails were still wrapped up almost like it was sleeping. “Beautiful isn’t it” the words escaped in a whisper of wonderment, it reminded her so much of Tear and her family, it would be comforting to be on the broad decks of a ship once more.  It was clear the trainee was getting more nervous the closer they drew to the water, his hands now clung to the saddle as if he may drown should he let go, not to mention the colour from his face had all but drained away.

“The Wheel waits for no-one Master Leawen nor will our captain” Eva said with a flash of a smile before pressing forward.

It was of some comfort that her plan managed to work to an extent. Eva held her expressionless face while entirely grinning on the inside. Leawen was somewhat caught of guard or at least it seemed that way from his shaky bow and hesitant greeting. However his demeanour did change somewhat, she could not pick exactly what it was, but part of his usual confidence returned.

“It has been quite sometime Master Leawen, I hope your training is progressing well.” She held him with a steady gaze, trying to read his almost… smug stance “I take it you have read my letter. I have made arrangements for our passage down river, the boat is due to depart soon so we should make our way to the docks” she had barely finished the sentence when Leawen spoke

“We will not take the boat! I am told many ships have recently perished on the Erinin, Aes Sedai. And on top, I heard that some warders have recently cleared the road to Aringil of robbers and their type. We should ride. I will ready the horses, Aes Sedai.”

His outburst seemed to be as much of a surprise to Leawen himself as it was to Eva because his initial sharp tone quickly softened. It did nothing for Eva’s mood though, she simply raised an eyebrow in question, did he forget to whom he was speaking to? Did he think one night of childish banter gave him such leeway? Whatever it was that he was thinking Evaida was not impressed.

“This is a matter of haste Master Leawen.” She spoke with an intensity that stopped the trainee in his tracks “The Erinin is the quickest route to Aringil and I would not be so cruel as to push the horses so hard as to make the same time. We are going by boat.” Eva made that point certain “I’ve heard nothing but the highest commendations of the captain and he has sailed those waters longer that you have breathed, I’m sure he will get us to our destination safely” Eva had been pushed around all day with people questioning her decisions or making them for her and she was not about to let Leawen do the same “The horses have already been prepared, in fact they are probably waiting for us”

Collecting her cloak she swung it over her shoulders fastening it as she approached the door. A thin thread of Air was all it took to open the heavy wooden door, Eva waited for Leawen to follow before closing it in a similar fashion. Her soft leather riding boots barely made a sound on the tiled floor at they made their way through the Tower to the stable yards.

“I should not have to remind you but I shall anyway. This is Tower business, you will be told only what you need to know and no more. Do not question me Leawen, I tolerated your outburst back there but try that again and I will not be so lenient.” She glanced at him sideways and almost had to look again, he was beginning to look more and more like a Warder with a walk like a leopard “As a Tower representative you should be on your best behaviour.” They arrived at the stable yard to find the horses standing waiting, Peiter loosely holding Sai’s reins “I know it might be hard for you Leawen but I would appreciate the effort” she allowed a hint of a smile to accompany the sarcasm. The mood had been slightly sour since the trainee had walked through her door, Eva did not want the entire trip to be forced small talk and tension so thick it could be carved with a knife. She hoped her attempt a lightening the mood would at least have some effect on the bitter look Leawen had on his face since she completely disregarded his idea to ride to Aringil.

She accepted a leg up into the saddle from Peiter, as soon as she placed her feet in the stirrups the black stallion leapt forward a few steps. It looked as though Leawen may have ended up with nasty bite had he not moved away in time “It seems the tables have turned Master Leawen” she actually did smile this time settling Sai with a few quiet words “Time is of the essence, we best be off lest they sail without us”. Eva urged her horse forward into a steady walk leaving Leawen sort his horse out and lead the pack horse.

For what was a beautiful autumn day Evaida’s mood was darker than the Tower basement with no lamps. She thumbed her great serpent ring absently as she walked back to her rooms from the Warders Yards. Her meeting with the Mistress of Trainees had been almost as frustrating as her meeting with Ophelia, the woman was a sitter and as well as being significantly older than herself she was also quite insistent. Eva was reasonably young and new to sisterhood but she was capable of making her own decisions despite popular belief. It was quite simple really, a short boat trip to Aringill and a few days ride to Caemlyn before heading down to Lugard, a journey she was quite capable of managing herself or even simpler still take another sister with her and skim straight to Lugard. However no other sisters were available and instead, she was informed she must take at least one Tower Guard with her, not asked but informed!

Once she adjusted to the idea Eva met with Mistress of Trainees to arrange a suitable escort. All she required was one Tower Guard, just one. Well she got an escort alright, it just so happened to be the last person in Tar Valon that she wanted to see let alone spend what could be weeks with. Leawen… their encounters has been brief but often heated, the man had no concept of boundaries and Eva had little patience for him. She tried to negotiate for someone else but negotiating is no use when there is no one else. As it seemed all the Tower Guards were busy with other duties and all the other trainees advanced enough in their training to be of any use were already deployed. So she was stuck with him, like it or not. One thought she did take comfort in was that Eva was Aes Sedai now, she had not seen Leawen for quite sometime and she had been raised since then. As long as she kept her wits about her she would have no trouble keeping the boy in line. What annoyed her though, was that she was most probably better off on her own without having to worry about the mischievous trainee as well as the job at hand. The job at hand! How could she forget? They had not even left and Leawen was already plaguing her thoughts.

Civil conflicts were of particular interest to Eva and the one that drew her to Murandy she felt she could relate to, to some degree. It was of course over a woman, it was always men who started a fight but more often than not the cause of the conflict was a woman. The details were still very vague but she knew enough to get her there and the rest she could determine once she reached the destination. Ophelia suggested she leave as soon as possible to try and extinguish the conflict before it turned into a full scale war. Arrangements had been made for passage on ship to Aringill leaving just before sun down, there was no time to waste. She spotted a novice loitering in the hall as she entered the Tower “Follow me child” Eva said not leaving any room for questioning, as a novice you quickly learned that you were never seen idle else you where made active.

Arriving at her rooms, Eva checked the ward before going in, she would have known if someone had entered while she was away but she always liked to be certain. She rolled up her writing kit and stowed it in her saddle bags with the rest of her necessities. “Take this to the stable master and ask if he could have Peiter ready Sai for me” she handed the novice the heavy saddle bags and watched her scurry off. Peiter was the only who could handle Sai other than Evaida, she had spent hours training the stable boy so that the stallion would get the best of care even when Eva too busy to exercise the horse herself. All that was left to do was wait. She had already organised to supplies and a pack horse, and the letter of summons had been sent to Leawen. She had been purposefully vague even leaving off her name, only giving directions to her quarters and a brief outline of the proposed journey, in attempt to gain the upper hand before they began. Eva had no idea how he would react, the last time they met they parted on uncertain terms and if he was anything like he use to be she could use any advantage she could find.

Drawing the curtains on her windows, filing away the last of her papers and placing wards on all the things she deemed important and some she didn’t. By the time Eva had prepared everything for the journey a tingle on the back of her neck alerted her of a visitor at her door. Leawen obviously did not know the meaning of haste or he managed to determine that it was in fact Evaida that sent the summons and he was already up to his usual games. Either way Eva was resolute not to let it get to her, she had a job to do as did Leawen and if it was to be any sort of success he would have to remember that.

“Come in” Eva called, fixing her deep blue fine woollen riding dress and adjusting a few pins in her hair, she would look a picture of Aes Sedai serenity…

The day started well before sun up, but for Eva there were never enough hours in the day no matter what time it started. She picked out a deep green fine woollen dress with divided skirts - as most of her dresses were - before sitting back at her desk. By the time she got dressed and scanned through some eyes and ears reports that had found their way to her, the first rays of sun were beginning to peep over the horizon. She made her way to the entrance hall of the Tower to find her mentee sitting waiting for her. A slight hint of satisfaction entered her smile to see Kalinde there on time.

"Good morning Kalinde, looks like it is going to be a nice day outside, perfect for a walk in the grounds" she waited for the novice to rise from her partly startled curtsey before she continued out of the Tower in the general direction of the main gardens. "I've always found the grounds to be a peaceful place to study particularly when the library is busy. There is always a quiet corner where you can find some solitude."

Evaida paused for a moment in front of the gates to the Warders Yards "Now, the Yards are strictly forbidden for Novices and Accepteds unless on an errand for a Sister. Remember that and you will avoid a trip to Pia Sedai, which I guarantee you would not be as pleasant as yesterday.” Continuing on further into the gardens Eva decided to take the opportunity to probe deeper into Kalinde’s background “Maradon is a fair distance from here, what drew you to Tar Valon and the White Tower?”

eeek I'm a bit behind the times I know...

Screennames of mentee(s): Myra (MIA) and Perine

Character Names of your mentee(s): Myra and Kalinde

Would you like any more mentee: Not at the moment

Evaida al'Marnae Gray Sister

Ophilia NSW Gray Sitter

Eva listened carefully as the initiate spoke, making mental notes as they walked. Every little piece of information someone shared could be useful, particularly when teaching, to know their background often hinted at their limitations. It did not surprise Evaida in the least when Kalinde admitted that she could not write "Do not worry yourself child, you are most definitely not the first and you will certainly not be the last Novice to arrive with little or no literacy skills. I was not all that educated when I came to the Tower. We will work on these as well as your channelling and weaving" she kept a brisk pace nearing the novice quarters, occasionally dipping her head to a fellow sister or acknowledging the wave of curtseys as she passed those in white and banded dresses. "The Tower has the largest collection of books and manuscripts in the World, I am sure that will be motivation enough to expand on your reading skills" she gestured down one of the wider halls as they passed, the great doors to the library stood open showcasing it's grandeur.

They passed the kitchen and the dining rooms, and Eva pointed out the more regularly used classrooms. “If you don’t remember where to go, just ask. It will take time but you will know these halls like the back of hand. Until that time be sure you leave for class early, there is no excuses for being late even if you are new, I learnt that lesson the hard way.” She smiled to herself remembering the numerous times she spent in the Mistress of Novices office, punctuality had never been her strong point. She came to a halt as the walkway opened up into a large chamber with levels upon levels of doors. “Here we are” it was disheartening to know that the majority of rooms stood empty. With the new initiate behind her she walked around the alcove before finally reaching their destination “This is it, your home for the next few years. Now I will leave you to get settled in, dinner will be on soon, just follow the other Novices to the dinning rooms if you loose your way. I will see you at first light tomorrow in the entry hall, from there I will show you the rest of the grounds and perhaps start your lessons”

Gliding back to her rooms and her ever increasing stack a paper work, Eva contemplated what tomorrow may bring. Teaching someone to channel was rewarding but it often presented itself with numerous obstacles and there was no telling what they might be…

OOC: Apologies for the late reply

IC:

The stack of papers on Evaida's desk seemed to have grown since she last looked, she had only been out a little while but more work had managed to find it's way to her. Since returning from a reasonably short trip south, Eva's rooms had become more like a prison cell than living quarters. From sunrise to sunset she perused reports, wrote letters, planned, met, organised and filed, yet still the pile of work continued to grow. She let out a disheartened sigh and almost jumped when a tingling sensation crept across the back of her neck. "Come in" she called before the visitor had the chance to knock. Eva always got a little amusement out of the look of amazement that usually accompanied the Novice or Accepted through the door, it was a simple alarm ward but quite effective - she was never caught off guard.

The white clad girl scurried in and handed Evaida a note with a quick curtsey and scurried back out again. Novices' under the duty of the Mistress of Novices knew not to dawdle lest they earn themselves some form of punishment. Such notes brought a smile to Eva's lips, it was a joyous occasion when a new novice joined the tower and it also meant she could leave her desk for a little while longer. With a quick check in the mirror as she passed Eva straightened her dress and fixed her hair before heading to Pia Sedai's office. She did not hurry rather glided along the marbled floor basking in the various tapestries that lined the walls.

Pausing but a moment when she reached her destination Eva knocked on the door. Pia's clear voice rang out sounding her cue to enter. With a brief nod to her fellow sister Evaida turned her attention to the initiate. A little dishevelled and travel weary the girl managed an awkward curtsey as Pia introduced them ”Evaida Sedai, this is Kalinde, our newest novice. I trust you will be able to guide her as she begins her studies?”

Eva smiled “Of course. It is lovely to meet you Kalinde, if you’ll follow me we will get you settled into your room”. With that she led the girl into the hall “Best pay attention so you will not get lost in the future. Many of the halls can look the same particularly when you are new to the Tower.” Some Aes Sedai frowned on Evaida’s more liberal approach to initiates but it was just not in her nature to high minded or strict. She could be firm when she needed to be, otherwise she preferred the more subtle approach. There was no need to be overbearing particularly with those only fresh to the novice whites, they were usually overwhelmed enough already.

“I should properly introduce myself, I am Evaida Sedai of the Gray Ajah. I will be your mentor at least for the first little while in the Tower. If you have any questions or troubles do not hesitate to ask, after all that is what I am here for.” She gave Kalinde a reassuring smile as they continued through the halls to the Novice quarters. “Why don’t you tell me a little about yourself?”

The day started well before sunrise for Evaida, her saddle bags had been packed the night before but there were still plenty of things that had to be organised before heading out on such a long trip, particularly one where there was a chance that you may not return. Sitting at her desk she set a keeping on her lock box and tucked the key away. She had never been much of a writer but her brief notes contained some significant and possibly dangerous information, the kind of information that she did not want to end up in the wrong hands. Donning her best riding dress, deep blue with silver horses marching the hem and bodice, and sturdy riding boots, she stepped out of her rooms into the hall. Not surprisingly the Gray Ajah quarters were buzzing with activity, she was not the only one of her Ajah journeying to Kandor and she imagined that the rest of the tower would be just as alive despite the early hour. With a few curt nods and reassuring smiles Eva wound her way to the ground floor and out to the stable yards. She avoided talking to anyone, now was not the time, at the moment she had to concentrate on the task ahead, it was not easy preparing yourself for war. There would plenty of time for planning and discussion in the coming days, for now Eva’s priority was her horse.

Dull hues for gray coloured the stable yard as she entered, the dark shadows of the stable hands hard at work were the only things that moved. A wide eyed owl sat in a nearby tree and hooted it’s greeting, sending shivers down Eva’s spine. She was never a firm believer in omens but today they rode to battle and no signs were good signs. The lamps in the yard were lit but they only cast enough light to ensure that you did not run into anything. Even then there was no guarantee as a weedy stable boy rushed past loaded with saddlebags only looking up in time to skirt around Eva before disappearing into the west stable wing. It was mostly silent except for a soft wicker of a horse or an order shouted between workers. Evaida glided along the aisle towards her destination, stopping every now and then to stroke an anxious horse on the forehead as they too could sense the excitement thick in the air. The deeper she ventured into the stables the more active it became, when she reached the area where Sister’s horses were kept there was not one hand that was idle. There were no other Aes Sedai to be seen, they would wait in the yard for their horses to be brought out, but the fact that Eva was the only Sister wandering through the chaos did not seem to draw any attention. Men rushed by dragging half awake horses loaded with bags, others were brushing down mounts preparing them for the journey, every stable had at least one person attending some had two, every stable except for one. She finally stopped in front of that stable, the one that even the bravest of stable boys made a wide birth around and for good reason. Peering over the half door some may have thought it empty but Evaida knew better immediately finding a dark pair of eyes staring at her from the pitch black.

Evaida waited for the almost inaudible whicker of recognition before lifting the latch on the stable door and entering. She reached into her belt pouch producing a lump of sugar holding it out in the darkness until a soft muzzle took it gratefully. It was not Striker’s fault that his previous owner had been less than kind and Eva did not blame the stallions mistrust of people, but his behaviour was often unpredictable and dangerous at best, except of course when Eva was around. That was what made him such an invaluable war horse, of course many of the Warders had similar animals but none were quite as fierce in their duties as Striker. Most Sisters opted for the quieter mounts but Evaida was never one for the plump little mare or sturdy gentle gelding and Striker was neither of those. She led the tall black stallion into the aisle and picked up a brush. By the time she had groomed and saddled him the first rays of dawn were filtering over the horizon.

The quiet stable yard had now become organised chaos. Horses and people were everywhere, Striker pranced nervously at the end of his reigns flicking his ears back and forth as Evaida led him out. It was quite a sight if you had time enough to take it in, Aes Sedai in their finery, Warders in their colour shifting cloaks, Tower Guards in their uniform all steady as rocks, the calm amongst the chaos. It would be a regal procession that left for Kandor if nothing else. A white clad novice offered to hold Striker’s reins while Eva mounted but quickly scurried off when the stallion flattened his ears ready to lunge at her. Swinging into the saddle easily Evaida checked everything over for the hundredth time that morning. The girth was firm and the saddle bags were tightly strapped on, only then did she allow herself relax a little. From the saddle Eva could easily search through the crowd for a familiar face, her eyes finally fell on a fellow gray. Space just seemed to open up in front of them as she directed Striker over to Vera Sedai. This was not their first mission together and she certainly hoped it would not be their last.

The crowd began to spill out of the stable yard and into the front Tower Grounds. Evaida waited for Vera to ready herself before following suit. She scratched Striker’s neck in attempt to calm him, talking quietly to the stallion as they made their way out for the official send off. Everyone lined up in organised ranks, Aes Sedai in groups of Ajah with their warders close at hand, there was no such thing as mulling around at the White Tower. They did not have to wait long for the Amyrlin to appear, the former Green was composed and as steely determined as ever as she delivered her words of encouragement. Eva sat nervously in her saddle, it was not her first out of Tower mission but it certainly was her biggest and she was determined not to fail her fellow Sisters, the White Tower or Kandor.

“As of this moment we are at war. Go forth and raise the Light’s banner over Kandor.”

The words rang in Evaida’s head as they rode through the Tower gates into the city. War it was such a strong word and something that was alien to Eva. It made the moment almost surreal as if it was a dream or perhaps a nightmare, to hear Sirayn Sedai, a battle hardened woman, say it with such strength yet with a hint of regret. The North road was cleared allowing the White Tower’s army to flow unhindered to the harbour where the boats would be waiting. This journey, this war, would be one that would be remembered for years to come, Eva’s only hope was that she and her companions would live to tell the tale…

The streets had calmed down since they had entered the Inn. More time had passed than Eva had realised with the sun well past it's zenith making it's way back down to the horizon and casting long shadows. It was nice not to have to push through a crowd or yell over the din, a very serene time be in the city as it took on the golden hues of the impending dusk. The events of the day were running through Evaida’s head as they walked back to the Tower, over and over she considered how she may have done things differently. Every time she came back to the same thing, she could not always use Saidar to defend herself, had Mors not been there, things would have turned out very differently.

“Be careful what you say, this mind does not easily forget” Eva glanced at Mors sideways “I may hold you to that one day” she said with a wry smile.

When the Tower gates came into view she looked at them with a tinge of regret. It had been an interesting day with many lessons learnt and she had quite enjoyed Mors’ company. “Well young Mors I fear this is where we must part ways, my thanks again for your assistance at the Inn and for your company, with the few exceptions it has been a most pleasant day”

There was a blur of motion and dull thump that came from behind Eva as she collected herself. She turned to find the other loud sailor gasping for breath with Mors standly calmly to the side. It did not take much to put two and two together. She took the mug from the first sailors hand before releasing her Air weave

"Perhaps you two gentleman will think twice next time before behaving in such a manner" Evaida spoke sharply and flashed her serpent ring to emphasise the point. Neither of the men said another word, their eyes darting from Eva to Mors and back again.

"Good" she turned on her heel headed for the door. The situation had unsettled her it was becoming more and more obvious that she still had alot to learn, at times she felt like a new born foal trying to gallop before she could walk.

Eva handed the inn-keeper a few crowns to cover the meal and with a curt nod continued out to the street.

She did not look back to see if Mors followed but she was not surprised when he appeared at her side, easily keeping stride.

"Thankyou" she said with a brief smile "I fear I may have had a very sore head had you not stepped in"

It was not a loss of interest in the conversation or the company that drew Eva's gaze to the other side of the room. She was listening to Mors but half of her attention was focused on two rather burly men sitting at a table in the opposite corner of the tap room. Evaida was observant by nature and had seen them walk in not long after Mors and she had sat down. The Fox and Hound was not a rough place but on occasion crewmen from the ships coming down river visited for a drink or two.

These two men seemed to be on good terms when they walked in but now their conversation was becoming quite heated. Eva could see the innkeeper watching on worriedly and when the argument escalated into a shouting match she decided it was time to step in.

"Will you excuse me for a moment" she said to Mors as she got up from her seat.

By the time she reached the table where the two men had been sitting they were about to come to blows

"Excuse me gentlemen what seems to be the problem" she asked politely but loud enough that the two men paused.

"It is his turn to buy a round but he refuses" the bald bearded man boomed

"Ya still be owing me from last night" the other retorted

"Perhaps if we all sit down we can sort this out calmly and rationally"

"I owe you nothing!" the bearded man yelled

"Oh yez yer do" the other slurred "Unless I be dreamin' that game of di last night"

"The di were weighted I tell you!" the bearded man replied

"How about you two just settle down" Evaida demanded but she was not heard.

The bearded man swung his mug at the other and Eva was just quick enough to duck and catch his hand in a strand of Air. In the commotion she did not see the second man take a swing...

edit: apologies, didn't realise it was totally whack when I posted, all fixed now :D

The boy was pushing his luck and showing more of his true colours Eva suspected. He was wise enough to drop the issue of her leaving Tear, for that much she was thankful. It was interesting to see how truly fervent Mors was to serve Aes Sedai, the lengths he would go to and the risks he would take to be a good Warder, it was either that or he was just using it as an excuse to push the boundaries. Evaida found herself enjoying his company alot more than she thought she would - he was a challenge, and she never shied away from a challenge.

“If most Aes Sedai would be switched for such words, both you and Lavinya Sedai must be unusual Aes Sedai. If that is the case, I believe I will work best with ‘unusual’ Aes Sedai.†his smile was all she needed to know he was indeed talking about the same Lavinya as she knew.

Having spent many of her novice years and even some of her time as accepted with Lavinya she had grown to like the sometimes...perplexing woman. Her reputation around the Tower however left much to be desired, though it occured to Eva that her fellow gray actually thrived on it, she was Domani afterall.

"Interesting that you should mention Lavinya Sedai" Eva said with a wry smile, obviously her friends wyles had caught the trainee's attention, not an uncommon occurance in the warder's yards it seemed "A fellow Gray sister and not a woman to be taken lightly". She could only guess as to what happened between the two but when it came to Lavinya and men her assumptions were usually not far wrong.

"You must have seen some interesting things in your travels between Cairhein, Caemlyn and Tar Valon. Do you ever resent being stuck in the one place for such a long time?" she asked more out of interest than anything else. Eva wanted to see the world, experience the cultures and visit grand cities, she was young for an Aes Sedai and some may have considered her flighty. At the moment the only thing that was stopping her from leaving Tar Valon that day was the lack of a good horse and an escort.

Mors was not to be taken for a fool that much was clear to Eva as the conversation continued. He may have been young but it seemed that his upbringing or his experiences had made him wiser than perhaps he gave himself credit for, it was either that or he had come across Aes Sedai many a time before today. His answer to her question was calculated almost as if rehearsed, the boy was a natural at the game of houses – not surprising for a Cairhienian. Such a high regard for Aes Sedai had become more familiar to Evaida but it was still strange to hear someone so fervent about them. Even being a Sister she regarded herself as a normal person certainly not a Queen, though she knew of some Sisters who would think of themselves in such a manner. The life of an Aes Sedai, as she saw it, was about sacrifice, you gave everything for the Tower forsaking all ties to your old life. With that came a certain sense of distance from the rest of the world but such sacrifice also brought about humility.

Evaida took a sip of wine and almost choked on it upon hearing Mors’ next question. The trainee was a lot more observant than she initially thought, her avoidance of the subject in her previous answer may not have gone unnoticed afterall. He was growing bold as meal wore on but it did not unnerve her as it may have in her younger years, it was actually a refreshing change from the roundabout questions most White Tower residents used to get answers, even if it was a little blunt.

“It is said that it was curiosity that killed the cat, Mors, best you keep that in mind for future conversations with Aes Sedai. Any other Sister would probably have you switched for such a question.†She paused with a raised eyebrow to emphasise her point, “I am not any other Sister however, so I will answer your question†she took a moment to collect her thoughts, on being raised she had let go of her past or at least tried. Her life in Tear had not been the easiest and there were certainly things she would rather forget, the thing that drove her from Tear being one of them. “I was not avoiding persecution, I did not even know I could channel until well after I had left let alone aspire to become an Aes Sedai. All this did not happen until weeks after I had packed the bare essentials and left my home in the darkest hours of the night.†It was difficult to think of that night, she had long since left that person behind, she had changed for the better – or at least she hoped so. “No, it wasn’t persecution or a search for adventure. It was a man, a noble to tell you the truth†Eva spoke as if it were nothing. She barely knew Mors, it was still a mystery to her as to why she was telling him this in the first place, so she was certainly not going to let on that there was more to the story. Sometimes she wondered if her experience with Morikan had somewhat darkened her perspective of high society, maybe that was why she had tried to avoid being associated with such people. One thing was for certain, when it came to men she kept them at arms length.

History and culture never ceased to interest Evaida and when Mors told of his curious background she listened intently. He seemed a very straightforward person and it was beginning to come to light why he reminded Eva so much of Morikan. Being raised with noble etiquette seemed to bring about a quiet arrogance if not blatant egotism, for those who possessed some self control it manifested itself as self-assuredness Mors seemed to be one of these, yet so did Morikan in the beginning. What scared her more, is that could have been her, had she not left Tear when she did she may very well have ended up like Mors’ mother… Alone with a child and with no verifiable noble claim. It made her all the more thankful she found her home in the White Tower.

â€â€¦ And that is why I will become a Warder someday.â€

For some reason that comment surprised her – she did not let it show of course. Perhaps it was her upbringing, none of the Tairen nobles wanted anything to do with the Tower let alone become a warder, then again Mors was not Tairen. Perhaps it was just that so very few trainees actually made it as a warder. His next question posed as a bigger surprise as very few were game enough to ask an Aes Sedai something personal. It did not bother her, she had little to hide and she was versed enough in Daes Daemar and the constrictions of the oaths to know what she could and couldn’t say and how to get around things without lying.

“There is not a lot to tell I am afraid. I have spent most of my life in the Tower before that I lived in Tear with my family. My father was a smithy, my mother a nurse maid and I have a younger sister.†Much of the time when you gave people enough facts they were less inclined to dig, the more illusive you were the greater their curiosity.

“These days I spend my time settling small claims and disputes, and of course there is always paperwork to be done. When I have a spare moment or two I am out here in the streets and markets soaking up the atmosphere, there is nothing like being amongst the people, I enjoy it almost as much as a gallop in an open field†she left it there as their meals arrived. After taking a few bites of her mint garnished roast beef and a sip of chilled wine Eva restarted the conversation “You say you want to be a warder, have you thought much about what you want to do once you achieve that goal?†Often trainees created romantic ideas about fighting trollocs and dark-friends and never fully realised how little of that they actually ended up doing. Particularly for those poached by brown and white ajahs or even some of the grays, spent a lot of their time escorting sisters across the country side or carting books with very little real combat involved. Although such tasks were a good test of dedication they often put trainees off being warders and staying Tower Guards instead.

The first rays of sunshine were making an appearance on the horizon when Evaida woke. Her first though was to roll over and try and get more sleep, that was until it occurred to her that today was no ordinary day. Oh no this was the one day of the year that every novice looked forward to, the one day where they could get a taste of what it was like to be Aes Sedai. Eva still could not quite figure out why she had signed up to be a ‘fool’ for the day, probably because the memories of being a novice and accepted were still fresh.

Poking her toes out from underneath the covers she tested the air, it was already warm and the sun had only just begun to rise, all signs indicated the day would be a hot one. Pulling herself out of bed Eva washed and dressed, today selecting a pale green dress with silver tairen mazes along the hem and neckline, nothing extravagant but it was a light cotton well suited for a summers day. She left her hair mostly out with a few of her dark curls strategically pinned at the back of her head to keep her hair out of her face.

There was no knowing what the day had in-store for her, she hoped the novice who picked her would show some restraint, for things would return to normal tomorrow and girl may just find herself scrubbing pots in the morning. Eva did not realise how long it took her to get ready until there was a knock at the door. Surely the novice could not be that eager…? She was proven wrong when she crossed the small entrance room to her door to find a small dark haired novice on the other side.

Evaida had barely opened the door when the child started talking by the slightly pained look on her face she seemed to be having an inner struggle of some sorts.

"Hello, Evaida Sedai. I am Gianna, and I have chosen you to be my Fool today for the Feast. It looks like you are already dressed and ready to go, excellent. I am quite hungry as I know you must be, so if you would accompany me to the kitchens, we can start our day."

The words seemed to flow a little to easily for Eva’s liking but she promised herself that she would give the child a chance, it was only one day after all and Gianna appeared pleasant enough. She wondered what was proper for her to do, she did not have to curtsy did she? It was a day of role reversal as such but that seemed a little extreme if not quite odd. She had only freshly acquired the shawl and curtsying to a novice just seemed…wrong. Evaida finally decided that a slight bend of the knee and inclination of the head should suffice in the circumstances.

“Good morning Gianna, it is nice to meet you. I am rather famished, it would be my pleasure to accompany you to the kitchens. Lead the wayâ€

She followed the novice with conflicting emotions, both dread and excitement well up inside her, what would the day bring…?

“Indeed, but not half so hard as I work myself, Evaida Sedai. Master Orion is an excellent Mentor, but he cannot spend the time with me I require to become fully prepared for the trials that will await me on the day I become a Warder. A day I am certain will pass, though I am uncertain when. I train about another 3 hours after Master Orion finishes with me, or anytime I find myself lazing about. However, I have given myself more time for recreation lately, as I was growing too weary to benefit the fullest from Master Orion’s teaching...â€

Eva raised an eyebrow at his reply – was the boy trying to impress her? He seemed honest enough, Mors was either extremely dedicated or a good liar, his sincere tone and her instinct suggested the former even though Evaida’s experience suggested the later. “With your work ethic I would think you would do well with your training†she considered him over her cup of wine, he was quite handsome and those eyes had a depth that reminded her of Morikan before their relationship turned sour. She had long since lost the romantic at heart she use to harbour, though she was no where hear as cold as some Sisters she had crossed paths with.

Visits to the yards were a rarity these days, there was always something that needed to be dealt with in the Tower, so she was glad of company other than that of side stepping Aes Sedai. “Tell me a little about yourself, where are you from? What do you do when you are not training?†she settled back and watched as the trainee answered more often than not you could learn more from how people reacted to a question than what they tell you. It was said that curiosity killed the cat but that never stopped Eva from digging a little deeper.

“You honor me, Evaida Sedai. I accept your generous offer.â€

The pair of them must have looked rather odd and if anything quite suspicious standing in the alley. Though the day was still young the air was starting to warm up, Eva preferred the milder climates and the sea breezes of the coast but had adjusted to the extremes that came with living in Tar Valon. Still she sought the cool of the inn and a cup of chilled wine.

“Very well†Eva looked at Mors standing there rather unsure of himself, “Follow me†she could remember a time when she was young and impressionable, it made her wonder whether the boy really knew what he had gotten himself into, or any trainee for that matter. The White Tower was not a place for the faint hearted, then again Mors seemed to be anything but faint hearted - naive perhaps. It was an environment that forced you to learn quickly, and weeded out anyone not fully committed. Eva doubted Mors would still be there if he could not handle it.

Back in the main street everything appeared to be normal, as if nothing had happened, it never ceased to amaze Eva how people could ignore such goings on. Of the hundreds of people that had walked past while the thieves surrounded the trainee very few had paid attention. Making it all the more clear that the days of The Last Battle were drawing near – the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.

Stepping into the Fox and Hound was like stepping into a cool room. It was dark and it took Evaida’s eyes a few moments to adjust. The common room of the Fox and Hound was like that of any other inn except for the tall greying woman that stood at the back of the room over seeing it all. Mistress Margaret was no stranger to White Tower patronage, being one of the nicer Inns between the Tower and the North Harbour, it was a popular spot to sit down for some fine wine and a hearty meal between comings and goings. Eva had discovered it on one of her ‘hunting’ trips, it was always peaceful and a convenient place to meet horse dealers to discuss business.

Evaida bowed her head to the Inn keeper who returned her courtesy, and found a table not far from the kitchen. The tantalising aromas of cooking drifted out whenever the swing door opened as the serving girls rushed in and out. It was not long before one of the girls stopped to take their order.

Once the young lady scurried off towards the kitchen Eva spoke up “So Mors, how long have you been at the yards? Are they treating you well and working you hard?†that was pretty much a given, despite the fact that trainees were not worked nearly as hard as novices or accepteds, but it was a good place to start without being too intrusive.

It was interesting to watch the trainee’s reaction to all that had happened. Some would have burled off blowing steam trying to save what scraps of their pride they had left, others may have politely excused themselves with as much dignity as they could muster, fewer still would act similarly to this trainee. He apologised, of all things the boy apologised much to Eva’s astonishment. Humility was a rare thing in trainees, a lesson that was often learnt the hard way, Mors was different and Evaida could not quite pin point what it was.

“I would hardly say you failed, bit off a little more than you could chew maybe, but not failed†she said with a smile “Now Mors, you must be famished, I know an excellent Inn just around the corner, that is of course if you do not have somewhere more important to beâ€. It was a well known fact that Healing took a lot out of you and hunger was a side effect of it. Eva could have just sent him on his way with orders to go straight to the kitchen but there was something about Mors that intrigued her, something that she hoped a decent meal and a drink or two might shed some light on.