The mid-afternoon sun beat down on Maev's back and shoulders as she took her second jog around the Warders Yards. It wasn't that she hadn't anything to do, but she seemed to need to fill some time between her training. Why not jog? As her long legs moved lithely across the field, she let her silver-blue eyes scan the area around her. Many trainees were practicing their forms and the sound of Tower Guards voices calling out orders to those Trainees was almost comforting to her now. At last, she was in a place where she could be treated as an equal to the men that she trained with.

Tilting her head to the side, Maev furrowed her brow at the site she saw before her. A trainee of whom she had no idea the name of, was struggling with forms. Right behind him lay a man in the regular garb of the tower trainees. White tunic and black breeches. He just lay there, his arms crossed over his chest, which rose and fell with the relaxed breath of sleep. Clucking her tongue, she shook her head and turned right around.

"This is absolutely ridiculous! That man should be punished for his lack of enthusiam for training! Just letting his partner do all the work." Her cheeks reddened with anger and her jaw set firmly. I can definately think of something that might give him a little 'kick'. Smirking, the Shienaran trainee took off running at a much faster pace than she had started out. Yes, this would all work out for the better is she simply took matters into her own hands.

Upon her return to the lazy trainee and his tree, she carried a large pail of freezing cold water. Softly, she crept up behind him. Her feet made no sound as she approached him. Lifting up the pail, she caught a glimpse of the other man who was training, and thought she caught a horrified look on his face. Dismissing it, she poured the water over the sleeping man. "That will teach you to lay about while others are working."

As the sleeping 'trainee' caught Maev's wrath, she stood over him with her hands planted firmly on her hips.

Maev Kiyosa

Tower Trainee

Mentee to Anwashawn

Hey guys, what's up? I can finally play Maev. Anyone wanna play with me? *crosses fingers* please please please

Maev Kiyosa

Tower Trainee

Mentee to Shawn

Pursing her lips, Serena looked up into the eyes of Estel. The words she spoke were coated with honey, but Serena knew better. Blue Sisters did not join the Blue Ajah because they couldn't read between the lines. "Have you any idea what time it is, Estel?" Shaking her head, she manouvered past the younger Aes Sedai and into her rooms. Turning over her shoulder to look at Estel, she remarked. "It's not early." Breathing in deeply, the Saldaean Sister attempted to calm herself, she had not done such a wonderful job of it on the way over.

Waiting until Estel finally offered her a seat, she gestured for the other Blue to sit as well. Where should she begin? There was so much to be brought down onto this young fire-spirited woman, Serena was practically at a loss for words. "Estel," Light, I practically called her 'Child'. It would be fitting, though."I almost wish I were here to speak kind words to you. However, that is not the case." Biting the inside of her cheek, Serena tapped her fingers on the arm of the chair. "There is much to be said about an Aes Sedai. We take on responsibilities that many others would never even dream of, we enter battles of the mind, body, and soul, yet we come out the other side holding our own."

Tilted emerald eyes tried to grasp at Estel's to see if the other woman was beginning to understand where Serena was going with this, but it hardly seemed that the younger woman cared. "Listen, Estel, I cannot beat around the bush with you. Your behaviour is very well noted through-out the AJah, let alone the rest of the White Tower. Your sudden outbursts: the crying, the yelling, the hysteria! It has been brought to my attention, not only by what I have witnessed myself, but by Sisters in other Ajahs." Shaking her head, her eyes lit with irritability, yet her face remained smooth and calm. "This has to come to an end, and it will come to an end beginning today." As she spoke the last word, her small hand came down hard on the arm of the chair.

"You are to be under my watch until further notice, Estel Liones. Which also means, you have penances to serve. There will be no more lashing out suddenly infront of any innitiate of the White Tower. THat includes Aes Sedai! Your behaviour is unacceptable, and until you have the courage and strength to act line an Aes Sedai, I have a mind to put you to work under my steady eye...and I have been given permission to do so."

Serena's eyes seemed to glow as she watched and waited for Estel's reaction.

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

BOnded to Thera Trakelyn

Her breath seemed to freeze in her throat when the radiant and opalescant city of Tar Valon came into view. Running a tanned hand through her short white-blonde hair, Maev shook her head. "Unbelievable!" She muttered to herself. Silver-blue eyes narrowed as she scanned the distance between where she stood and the bridge that would take her onto that beautiful island. The early morning sun seemed to bounce off of the strangely carved buildings and towers, to practically blind her.

Months of travel had brought her to this place, to this very moment. The horse she had bought in Cairhien had held out, even at the fast pace she had been traveling. Maev had never really preffered horse-back to traveling on foot for some reason, but she seemed to be somewhat glad that she had brought NightStalker. The mare was large and black, it's flanks were built more for balance in battle and not for speed, but she had held up well enough.

Patting NightStalker on the nose, Maev nodded and pulled the horse towards the city. Upon entering the din of the bustling Tar Valon, Maev tried to take in as much as she could. Bartering and merchants calling their wares distracted her from keeping a good eye on most of the passers by. Many of the women she ran into had a strange sort of agelessness to their faces. Not all seemed stuck up, but most were plenty more dignified than she had ever seen. Remarkable how these women carry themselves, and most don't even carry a sword! Furrowing her brow, the tall Shienaran attempted to cast aside her strange conceptions of these noble-like women, and turned her horse towards the White Tower.

The tower grounds seemed to be as busy as the city of Tar Valon itself. Servants in livery dashed about, and women her age or slightly older, dressed in white dresses with rainbow stitching on the hems, carried books and barked orders and younger looking girls dressed all in white. Again, Maev shook her head. What a strange place this was turning out to be. At last, she heard the clashing of metal on metal and she knew she had come to the right place.

A large yard, surrounded by an even larger fence, held what must have been the Trainees. What looked to be a barracks off to the side streamed with men mostly, but to her suprise...there were some women as well. Her heart jumped into her throat, and at last she knew she just might fit in here. Granted, there were a few folks that looked at her awkwardly, she stomped out any thought that would hold her back from what she wanted.

After asking a couple of the liveried servants, Maev found her way to the Mistress of Trainees, which made her even more determined. It was a woman that headed the Trainees! "Excuse me, may peace favour your sword," She began in traditional Shienaran greeting. "I am Maev Kiyosa and I am here to train." After a couple of minutes, the Mistress of Trainees gave her a piece of parchment with a man's name on it and told him where he could be found.

Holding out the piece of paper, Maev narrowed her eyes at the name. Anwashawn Ellasser. Shrugging, she supposed it would have been too good to be true to have a female for a mentor, so she would just have to deal with having a man for one. Hopefully, he wouldn't treat her like a silly girl that had never handled a sword before. Narrowing her silver-blue eyes, she fixed a look of determination on her face as she approached the Tower Guard that would be her Mentor.

"May peace favour your sword, Anwashawn Ellasser. I am Maev Kiyosa, your new Mentee." The man turned with his head lowered slightly, perhaps he thought that she would be a lot shorter than she was...

Maev Kiyosa

Tower Trainee

OOC: Yay!! my first post as Maev!! Woot! I'm so excited!

OOC: I have started a thread in the White Tower for you and the Mistress of Novices.

http://www.dragonmount.com/forums/viewtopic.php?p=223788#223788

Go nuts!!

The morning was crisp and beautiful. The sun hung low in the sky. Not wanting to admit it, Serena's arms were slightly sore from the archery lessons the young soon-to-be novice had been giving her. When the girl wasn't looking Serena would steal a grasp at the muscle between her shoulder blade and spine. Biting down on the inside of her cheek, Serena began to see the towers of Tar Valon in the distance. Nodding to herself, she admitted silently that she would be happy to get back into her rooms for atleast a fortnight.

Pointing at the glistening towers before them, she turned to Sandrilene. "That, child, is Tar Valon. You have done well in our travels. I must say, I am quite suprised at your patience with the horses and the pace in which we had to travel at. Most girls your age would have whined and moaned for most of the way." Serena let a smile touch her lips and eyes for a moment before returning her features to cool serenity. "It is not much longer now."

As the two rode closer to Tar Valon and onto the sturdy polished bridges, Serena gave Sandrilene a small lesson in White Tower Ettiquette and how to greet the other Aes Sedai and Accepted. "Always curtsy when in the presance of an Aes Sedai and Accepted. Yes, the girls in the white dresses with the bands of colour on the hems." The Blue Sister answered some last minute questions and prepped Sandrilene to meet with the Mistress of Novices.

As they arrived at the gates of the White Tower, Serena lead the girl to the stables where she would have to leave her horse with the stablehands. It was always hard to leave one's animal. Atleast, it was to Serena. After patting Current on the nose and giving her some oats, Serena urged Sandry to follow her. "Now, I will be taking you to the offices of the Mistress of Novices, she will most likely ask you a few questions and write your name in the Novice book. She will give you a couple of white dresses, and assign you to a room. Most likely, that will be it." Waiting for Sandrilene to nod, Serena wanted to make sure that Sandry understood.

Gliding towards two large wooden doors, Serena raised her hand and knocked loudly. They were bid to "enter", and the Blue pushed the door open gently. "Faerzyne Sedai, may the light favour you." Serena curtsied slightly. It was always odd to her, to curtsy to another Aes Sedai that wasn't the Amyrlin Seat, but she always did so when she was in the presance of the Mistress of Novices. This woman would be responsible for any of her punishments as well, that is, if she was ever in need of a penance.

"I bring to you, Sandrilene fa'Toren of Amadicia. I have tested her, and I believe she is fit to be trained in the White Tower."

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

BOnded to Thera Trakelyn

Mentor of Sandrilene fa'Toren

Pursing her lips and scowling in frustration, Serena swiftly removed herself from the gardens, where she had met with Sirayn secretly. Never could the Blue be frustrated with a woman that she was so bound to in duty. Serena had always paid swift and direct attention to the Green Sister, and was now bound in Oath to the woman she held so dearly. Not that Serena was "in love" with Sirayn Simeone, never that, she just held her...in high regards. Focus, Serena! Mumbling curses to herself under her breath and in her mind, the Saldaean Aes Sedai was practically storming to through the Blue Quarters by the time she reached the entrance way.

Why me? I'm not a baby-sitter! If the girl can't hold her own than more vigerous action should be taken. It's not my bloody fault that she's blubbering in front of the other innitiates when she she should be teaching. What can I do about her sudden bursts of outrage? The bloody woman has always been a little ferocious, perhaps a bug just got up her skirts for good this time!

Over and over and over, Serena cursed the Sister she was about to have to "look after". Perhaps Sirayn had assigned Serena because the two of them were in the same Ajah and the Green had just had enough of Ms. Liones. Shaking her head, Serena turned a corner and took in a deep breath. She was almost at Este's rooms, and she would have to collect herself, somewhat.

Realizing that she had been twirling her dagger through her fingers on the whole walk over to Estel Sedai's, Serena shoved the blade back up her sleeve. Glancing down, she straightened her floor length coat and dusted off her breeches, slightly. Straightening, she raised her hand and knocked hard on Estel's door.

Serena Morrigan

BLue Ajah

Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

Member of the Order of the Rose

As the Aes Sedai and Amadician girl left the small area where they had been hunted by bandits, Sandrilene began to ask questions. As Serena looked down upon the girl from her saddle, her eyes merely showed that she was listening, but behind those sly emeralds the Aes Sedai thought to herself, The White Tower will profit much from this young lady's mind, and she will profit much from what she learns. It was not hard to tell that Sandrilene fa'Toren had been raised well. The words and questions that managed to slip from her mouth, although slippery and perhaps with a slightly awkward or opposite intent, happened to be quite smart and well thought out. Nodding, Serena smiled slightly and turned her head to face infront of her.

"Sandrilene, you were raised the only way your family knew how to raise you. I do not think their lessons were lies, per se, but more of what they had been taught, and their fathers before them." Glancing down at her reins for a moment, Serena rubbed the leather of one of them with her hand as she thought. How can I put this lightly? "Would it be more simple to tell you that Aes Sedai and the Children of the Light just do not get along and never have? I would hope to say that one day the Children will see that we are working towards the same goal. Also," With an arched eyebrow Serena wove a few threads of Air, Fire and Spirit together to create a small ball of light, something she had learned in her novice classes under Arette Sedai. Turning to Sandry she asked, "and how does one explain this to someone that has never channelled before and never will learn how to?"

Kicking her horse into a gallop, Serena persuaded Sandrilene to pick up her pace as well. It was about time they were off and covered some good distance. "We shall ride for quite some time now at this pace. I will not run either of our horses into the ground, but we need to cover some distance if we want a decent roof over our heads and a hot meal for dinner." Out of the corner of her eye Serena caught Sandry eyeing her bow and had deliberately not answered the girls question about getting it back. Perhaps after a few days she would hand it back to Sandrilene, but not yet. The girl would not be allowed to have it upon returning to the Tower.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~**

The sound of Currents hooves on the hard cool ground was comforting to Serena; however, the time was coming where she would be more than happy to be sitting in one place for longer than a night or two. It was not often that Blue Sisters stayed at the White tower for long periods of time, but a month or two back in her quarters was always welcoming at first.

The sun was cresting the horizon and about to bless the day with it's golden rays. Glancing over at Sandrilene, Serena could tell the girl was more than weary with riding in the saddle. "It's not much longer Sandrilene, two days at the most."

Biting the inside of her cheek, Serena reached behind her and pulled out the bow. Holding it up and out towards Sandry, she said. "I will give this back to you on one condition. I have not used a bow much, only the One Power and I am quite decent with all of my daggers if I need them. However, if I give this bow back to you, you must teach me a thing or on how to use it. For the next two days, until the towers of Tar Valon glisten in the sun...or moon before us, you will teach me. Agreed?" The sparkle in Serena's eyes glistened mischieviously as she waited to see if Sandrilene would accept. Most likely, the girl would not hear such a deal ever again from an Aes Sedai.

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

OOC: If you want to post once more I might post again, then I can post us coming to the White Tower and the Mistress of Novices quarters. sound good?

Not to be pushy, but...How is the bio going? Do I need to send it again?

Re-send it where? To you devon? or were you not talking to me :mrgreen:

Sandrilene went on and on about how she would never let the witch take her to Tar Valon. Sighing a heavy breath, Serena shook her head in disappointment. Light, this child will have me asleep in no time with all of the energy I'm burning up with her. Biting down on her lower lip, the Blue Sister watched as the girl tried to hide her emotions. It was slightly strange to see what it looked like when a battle was going on within someone else's head. Quirking an eyebrow Serena thought, so that's what I look like...

Shaking her thoughts away, Serena softened her features and concentrated on Sandrilene. Laying a gentle hand on the girls arm, Serena tried to bring the girl back to reality and steady her a bit. "Listen, child, I am not worried about your family and what they may or may not do to me and the other Aes Sedai. I am only worried about you." The girl looked as if she might fall right off of the horse if Serena had not had her in strands of Air. Reaching for her pouch, she lifted the skin and held it out towards Sandry. "Drink some water." Before the girl could even refuse, Serena held the skin above her lips and let the water trickle into her mouth from a few inches away. "It is not poisened. If it was, I would not drink it." Pursing her lips she waited until Sandrilene took the skin.

"Why do you think your family let you go so quickly? Why do you think your brother let you go with me? They may not like what channellers can do, but they know that if you are to become one, and you will regardless of what you do, that they want you to be safe while learning how to control it." The skin was thrust back into the Aes Sedai's hands angrily. "YOu don't have to like me, Sandrilene. I don't need that from you. But you are doing no one any favours by acting the way you are." As Serena finished her sentance she could feel a shift in the air around them. It seemed to feel thick, and she felt as if eyes were boring into her.

Biting the inside of her cheek, Serena quickly wove a Shield of Air around the two of them. Lucky that she had, because a group of what seemed to be bandits attempted to circle up on them quickly. "Sandrilene, I cannot hold the strands of Air that bind you and channel at these bandits at the same time. I am going to let go." The Air Shield would hold the two of them in place until Serena moved, then it would follow them wherever they would go, so Sandry wouldn't be able to move anyways.

Arrows knocked and blades thrust at the two women, but with Serena channeling smalls balls of fire, their equipment went up in flames in no time at all. None of the men were killed, for Serena did not believe in useless massacres. Thrown off of their horses, and weaponless, the men turned and ran for their lives. Furrowing her brow in concentration, Serena turned to Sandry. "Are you alright?" She should have been, the Shield had held well and the "fight" had been over in mere minutes. Tilting her head to the side, she spoke. "Now, back to what I was saying...You want to fight the Shadow? You want to live? You want to be able to see your family again? These things are all possible if you come with me to the White Tower. You would be fortunate, in my eyes, to see your family again." Serena's emerald eyes narrowed a little in anger at the Dark One. "My family was killed in a Trolloc raid when I was your age. Perhaps that is one reason I dedicated my life to fighting the Dark One in any way that I can." Again, she took in a deep breath and sighed. "Well, if we are going then we should get out of here. It would not take long for those men to get reinforcements. Will you join me for a ride, Sandrilene? If you wish to know more of my plite with the Shadow and what it was like being taken to the White Tower, for me...then please, come. Remember, I was once in your predicament, child."

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

OOC: Sorry, our internet connection went out and I haven't been able to get online until now. I'm at school at the moment, but our connection should be up soon.

*claps excitedly, and still has fingers crossed*

WOOT!

Hey guys, what's up? I have been working on a bio for qute some time, it's for a Tower Trainee named Maev Kiyosa. The bio has just been CC'd and I'm crossing my fingers until it's approved. I've never had a Gaidin character before, and I am looking forward to taking on the challenge.

I just thought I'd let you all know, so you'd be prepared, ya know? hehe. Hopefully I'll be seeing you all in the Yards soon.

Serena Morrigan/Maev Kiyosa

With the One Power coursing through her veins, Serena's senses were hightened. In the distance between she and Sandrilene she could tell that the girl was reaching for her arrows and preparing to let them fly. Shaking her head in disapointment with a hint of humour, the Aes Sedai wove a shield of Air around her. The girl's first arrow hardly came close to Serena, and when Sandrilene noticed she abruptly stopped her horse and turned to knock another arrow in Serena's direction. "If this is what she wants, than this is what she'll have." The Blue muttered as she approached.

Following in suit to what the child wanted, Serena continued to catch up to Sandrilene. “I warned you. I told you to leave me be. I am nothing like you!†The bow's string seemed to buzz in taughtness as the Blue approached. Nodding, Serena said. "Yes, child. I have been warned. Do not think I am afraid of you, I have faced much worse in my time." Studying the girl, Serena noticed the paleness on her face. A common look of those who might lose their lunch at any time. With ease, Serena deftly wove a few threads of Air around the knocked arrow and bow and removed them from Sandrilene's grasp. "I believe it safer if I take these for now. You may keep the rest of your arrows until I deem it necessary to remove those from your custody, as well." Tilting her head to the side, emerald eyes sparkling, yet compassionate.

"Sandrilene, fighting with you is not my top priority. I did not come to Amadicia to fight Children of the Light, I came to remove the Darkfriends from within the lines of this nation. That is what I live for." Gently, she placed the bow and arrow into her saddlebags, next to her staff. "However, if force is how we will go about our excursion to Tar Valon, than that is your choice, not mine. There is no joy in forcing innocent girls anywhere." Her voice was calm but steady, the use of the One Power while speaking often did that to a channeller.

"Now, if that's how you wish it to be, then it will feel much like this..." Wrapping thin but sturdy threads of Air around Sandrilene, the girls arms tucked into her sides tightly, and her legs became stiff against the horses sides. "I can guide your horse with ease. Is this what you want? I will not take you into Tar Valon as a prisoner, Child. Tell me, is this how we shall have to ride?"

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Serena's heart went out to Sandrilene as her parents stood to leave. The only words expressed were the ones that the girls father spoke to the Aes Sedai. Heartless...She thought as they left the inn. The pain in Sandrilenes' brother's eyes wrenched at Serena's soul. She had seen this before and every time it seemed to get harder and harder. Just because she was an Aes Sedai and wore the cool mask of one, did not make her heart cold as well.

When he walked out, Serena was prepared for the calamity that happened next. Most Amadician girls that had the ability to learn to channel did NOT like being taken to Tar Valon. “Why couldn’t you just leave me be? If I had died so be it, it would have been the will of the light… Now… Now I have nothing! Leave me alone! I want nothing to do with you or your darkfriend ways.†Sandrilene exploded and took off out of the inn as if she didn't realize she had an Aes Sedai on her trail.

One thing an Aes Sedai realizes and eventually comes to learn, is the fact that there are several stages to mourning. Each innitiate comes to the White Tower not expecting to stay, but when they do the lose everything. One might not realize this particular issue upon entering in their training, but when they outgrow their family, their Gaidin, and have no real friends to speak of in the White Tower...that is when you learn.

Expecting Sandrilene's outburst, Serena let her go. Gulping down the last of her ale, she stood up and paid the serving girl. Since she was merely passing through and had expected to be leaving with or without the potential novice, her things were already packed.

Upon reaching the stables, she tucked her small staff into one of the saddle bags and mounted Current easily. Most Aes Sedai wore dresses, this one did not, except on rare occassions. Riding always came easy to Saldaeans and was made especially simple without skirts flapping around. Her long tight fitted blue coat flapped out behind her as she nudged her mare into a full gallop. With the mischievious twinkle still in her eyes, the Blue Sister caught up to Sandry in no time at all, and hung just behind her.

Falling back a little more, Serena watched the girl. She was quite a decent rider, which was formidable for a young girl. Her temper would get the best of her, just as Serena's had, but that would all come in good time. Embracing the True Source, the Aes Sedai wove a funnel of Air that went right up to the girls ear. "I was just wondering, Child, where you might think you're going? Where can you go?" Not wanting to be mean, and not trying to be, Serena kept quiet as Sandrilene turned her head to look over her shoulder. She would be torn, no doubt. As all of us have been.

In a much more soothing tone, she said. "Sandrilene fa Toren, you are not alone. There are many out there like you...even me." Aes Sedai were human beings. Just because they lived a little longer and were affected by the agelessness, it did not mean they were all cold and heartless. Now, Serena would leave it up to Sandry to slow down and speak to her. If this tactic didn't work, there were many other ways she could get the girls attention/

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

OOC: Beautiful post! Please, never apoligize for it being long. I LOVE to read them!

Nodding, Serena pursed her lips and patted the chair beside her. "Come sit next to me, for I will need your full attention." At last, the girl got up and sat next to the Aes Sedai. "Good. Now, close your eyes and try to concentrate only on my voice. Shut out the din in the background and calm yourself." It might have been a hard task to do, especially with the circumstances the way they were, but Sandrilene seemed to obey almost right away. Most likely, she is trying to prove me wrong... A light ignited behind Serena's eyes as she knew that she was right.

"Concentrate only on the sound of my voice, Sandrilene. Feel all of your thoughts drift except one. Think of the sapphire stone on the hilt of my dagger. Think of it's shape and colour, the smoothness of it. As you turn the stone over in your mind, look through it, be a part of it. Think of how it would feel in your hand, and it's texture." As the Blue Sisters voice droned on, as she described the sapphire more and more to the girl, she could feel Sandrilene calming herself.

First, the sapphire blinked quickly and went out. Instead of stopping the girl from thinking of the stone, she urged her on. Within moments, the stone was alight for several minutes at a time. Placing a hand on Sandry's she gently urged the girl to hold the image of the stone in her mind and open her eyes to see for herself. "The One Power is alive in you, Child. This stone blinks every time you come close to Saidar." A knowing smile spread across the Aes Sedai's face. "There is no proof but what you have shown here today. No one has made this happen, except for the Creator and the power you hold within you. You must come to the White Tower with me."

Again, the Saldaean Sister arched her eyebrow at the fa Toren's. "Do you see now?"

Serena MOrrigan

Blue Ajah

BOnded to Thera Trakelyn

The din of the tavern seemed to move on in its chaotic orchestra around Serena and the couple she sat across from. The woman across from Serena's mouth moved as she protested the Blue sisters petition. The words no longer mattered. Obviously, no wife of a predominant member of the Children of the Light would want their child to be able to channel. However, such was the way with this woman's child.

"Child," Serena snuck in a word here and there. The woman seemed to hate being called a Child, but that is what she was to the Aes Sedai. In truth, and all actual fact, the woman was probably the age of what Serena's grandchildren's grandchildren would be, if she had any. "There is no need to discuss this matter any further. I believe your daughter can learn to channel and control the One Power. That is purely factual." Tilted emerald eyes moved from the girls mother to the girl, Sandrilene fa Toren. The potential novice had long auburn hair and blue eyes that seemed to change with every emotion. At this particular moment, she did NOT look happy.

"Sandrilene fa Toren, if my ability to sense the One Power in women is of any use, you can and will be brought to the White Tower in Tar Valon." The girl looked as if she were about to protest and Serena cut in. "I will not have anymore discussion about 'witches' and darkfriends with you or your family members." Putting up a small ivory hand as if to stop anymore words to flow from the fa Torens, it did not seem to stop anything.

Arguments shot from the Child of the Light, the Blue Sister knew that there was nothing she could say to the man. The White Tower had fought with the Children of the Light for so long Serena was exhausted from hearing the slander that came out of the mouths of this particular family.

Her emerald eyes grew fierce, and she glared at each member of the fa Toren family present. Her Aes Sedai calm was still painted across her face, but one could easily tell that she was not a happy woman at this point. "Well then, if she does not come with me, she will die. That is the long and short of it. In no time at all, your daughter will begin to weild the One Power by herself and find she is suffering from headaches and nausea, soon the sickness will overtake her and she will die. Is that what you want Master fa Toren? Do you succumb your child to death?"

The look in the young girls eyes changed to one of fear. It was not right to speak of what could happen to Sandrilene infront of her, but it seemed the only way for a message to be put across. Arching a dark eyebrow at Sandrilene's parents, Serena asked. "Or is it that you do not believe me that she will be able to channel one day?" With a flick of her wrist, the Blue Sister produced a dagger from her sleeve. On the hilt of the dagger shone a polished sapphire. "I will prove it to you if I must. Is that what you want?" Smoothly, she turned her head to face the girl. "Sandrilene, will you assist me then?"

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

OOC: Is that alright?

Puffing away on her delicate and intricately carved pipe, Serena couldn't have been any more content. Unless, of course, it was any other time. Obviously, the two other Sisters were just as "put out" with the other Tower Guards as she was; however, lumping Thera into that small group was beginning to annoy the Blue. She had a great and lovely Gaidin. Not only was Thera Trakelyn loyal, but she kept her guard well. Slightly preturbed by the outcome of the beginning of their excursion, Serena fell in step behind Sheena and Lavinya. The other Blue had always been better at speaking with Sisters of different Ajah's, then Serena had been. Not that she couldn't do it, Sheena was merely more qualified.

Nodding where it was appropriate, Serena listened to every word and annalized the tones of voice that were used in the exchange between the other two. Pursing her lips as she thought, the Saldaean Blue figured that any tension in their voices was most likely caused by the series of events that had led up to their meeting, and afterwards. When had the White Tower decided it would be a great idea to enlist immature recruits? Shaking her head and biting the inside of her cheek, she held back any unnecessary comments.

Upon entering the inn and seeking baths and warmth, the party seperated for what could not have been long enough. Torn between her thoughts of Lavinya and her love for Thera, Serena bathed alone and dressed alone. Normally, Thera would have been somewhere near by, or in the same quarters as Serena as she dressed. Not this time. She had to spend her time in pause and meditation. The issues that would be laid on the table tonight would not be ones that should be taken lightly. Speaking of male channellers was always a touchy subject.

Entering the private dining area, Serena nodded to Sheena and Lavinya. The candlelight danced off of the walls, creating a disdainful atmosphere. Breathing in deeply, the Blue took her seat. Behined her, Thera stood in the doorway. Narrowing her tilted emerald eyes, Serena studied Sheena as she spoke. "My contact made sure I understood that the rumors of a male channeler were just that: rumors. She believes whole-heartedly that they are true, but because the rumors point accusingly at the son of a very important man, the whispers are heard only behind closed doors and in the darker corners of the city. It's just as well that you are here," As Sheena's head turned to Lavinya, Serena followed her gaze and she nodded.

"Serena and I are no strangers to such delicate political matters, but we have devoted our lives to pursuing other causes. I have no trouble allowing you to take the reins there should it prove necessary. I can't speak for Serena, but--"

Just as Serena was about to speak Aran and Rosheen burst into a bout of raucous laughter. The three Aes Sedai turned to gaze upon them, studying them from head to toe. I've bloody had it!Pursing her lips, the Blue immediately thought of a weave that had irked her in her days as a novice. Embracing the Source, Serena plucked at a couple weaves of Air, and some of Fire which would produce little nettles spiking up and down Aran's spine. Deciding at the last moment to spare Rosheen, simply because she had the intelligence to appear ashamed. The mohawked tower guard would be spared the One Power being used on her, but she would not get out of the lecture completely. A sly smile crept onto her face, while her eyes still shone with ferocity. Yes, perhaps lighting a tiny fire under his bottom would help a little, too.In satisfaction, she watched as Aran jumped to his feet in suprise. Perhaps they were angry; however, the Sisters were, too.

"If the both of you do not shape up soon, there will be major penances to pay. Not only that, but you could cost us our lives at the point where we are to depend solely on the protection of you." Pulling at a thread of Air, Serena cupped Aran's face and tilted it closer to hers. "What could possibly be so amusing that you would disturb our discussion? Are male channellers funny to you, Aran?" Venom could have dripped off of her tongue, as she spoke his name. "Is it funny to you that we could all go up in flames at any moment of being in this madman's sight? Is your fealty not to the White Tower and to protect the Aes Sedai? If you are not here to protect us in our time of need, or to go over our strategies with us, then please, do us all a favour and leave. The White Tower has no use for baffoons." The harsh words she spoke were directed mainly at Aran, but the Blue figured Rosheen might be able to benefit from them as well.

When she was done her lecture, she released her threads, and returned to Aes Sedai calm. The glowing of her eyes had died down, and her cheeks no longer flushed with anger. Quietly, and quite reserved, Serena took up her pipe and sat back down. Closing her eyes for a moment to collect herself, she took in a deep breath. Upon opening her eyes, she looked from Sheena to Lavinya, "Please, Sisters, carry on. I have no objections to Lavinya Sedai taking on the negotiations; however, will you discuss your actions with us before you take complete control of that aspect? I would assume that we should all confont eachother before making a large decision. This," she paused as she thought. "subject is quite delicate."

Leaning back in her chair, Serena seemed to act as if nothing had happened.

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Bonded in Heart and Soul to Thera Trakelyn

Angry

OOC:Sorry this took me so long. School is just over at last!

OOC#2: It's Edited guys! Is that better? Nothing Moiraine wouldn't have done to Lan. :mrgreen: Oh! And I do apologize, James, for getting Aran's name wrong. It wont happen again

OOC#3: Edited!!!

The sun had descended the sky more than Serena had hoped. Elyith had not arrived, which meant she had failed to heed Serena's call. Clucking her tongue on the roof of her mouth, the Blue shook her head and headed for the door. Gliding down the hallway, making haste towards the classroom she knew the girl would be in, servants and innitiates quickly hopped out of her way once they saw the look on her face. She was NOT a happy Saldaean.

Reaching the classroom, Serena paused before the door and raised her fist. Three hard loud knocks rapped on the door. Knocks that could have instilled fear into a madman. The door opened and the Aes Sedai teaching the class glared at Serena, then whiped the look off of her face and took a step back. Tilted emerald eyes shone like a cats in the night. "Elyith Ishel. I believe you were instructed to come to my quarters. Better late then never." Walking over to Ely, Serena smirked and embraced the True Source. Wrapping the girl up in flows of Air, she lifted her up out of her seat.

"Is this what you wanted?" Once she had pulled Elyith out of her classroom, she placed her on the ground in the corridor. The bonds of Air still around the girl, Serena asked. "Alright, can you walk by yourself, now?" Once Ely answered, Serena went on. "As we're walking to my quarters, you will tell me of why you decided to disobey me. Once we get there, I have something waitinf for you to take care of."

Serena Morrigan

OOC: Don't worry, I havent forgotten about you. School suddenly picked up and I have been slammed with work.

IC: Shaking her head, Serena's eyes seemed to glow with ferocity. "Estel!" It wasn't quite a yell, but her voice was firm. How dare the Aes Sedai act like such a fool infront of a novice! Grasping the Domani Blue's arm, she gripped it hard. "Is it really necessary to run all the time? Pull yourself together Estel Liones...Your wits must have washed off with your tears, or have you forgotten that you are Aes Sedai?" The small Saldaean Blue's voice seemed to rise as she questioned Estel.

Glancing over at Zaire, Serena knew this was not the time or the place to scold the insane Blue. "And, 'the girl', for the third time, is Zaire Sharimaei. Zaire is new to the White Tower, and my Mentee." Pursing her lips, but maintaining her calm exterior, Serena cursed Estel in her mind.

"Estel, why don't you tell Zaire about what Tower life is like. Please, leave out the portion of where you lost your mind." In any other case, Serena would never have spoken to another Sister in such a manner, infront of a novice. However, Estel had earned the right to be taken down a few notches. Public humiliation would do wonders.

Serena Sedai

"Well, I only know by the way we just came, but I am rather good with direction. If I get lost I will be sure to ask someone," Zaire's head bobbed with a nod and the girl seemed to smile genuinely, at last. Returning a smile, that Serena let touch her eyes, she said. "Good, Zaire. That skill will work well for you in your training now, and in the future."

Just as she was about to lean back in her chair and pull out her pipe and tabac, a soft and sort-of weak knock came at the door. Puzzled, but positive the destraction was made with good intentions, Serena called for the knocker to enter.

To her suprise, in walked Estel Sedai. The Saldaean Blue arched a dark eyebrow in confusion, slightly irritated that the young Domani Sister had felt it necessary to interrupt a discussion, such as this. It was always interesting to get to know a new Mentee, and try to figure out which direction they might be headed in. Gesturing to a seat, she ushered Estel in.

The younger Blue's eyes were slightly red around the outsides, and still a little puffy. Looking into her eyes, Serena could almost feel the pain that wrought Estel's very soul. There were very few things that could make an Aes Sedai feel pain and despair, and Serena had felt one of them in her life before. Tilting her head to the side, as she was known to do, in curiosity, Serena spoke gently, but firmly. "Estel Sedai, please meet Zaire Sharimaei. She is new to the White Tower and hails from Andor." Waiting for the two to get through their introductions, the weak sound that emanated from Estel's voice seemed strange and horribly 'off', for the young woman.

Narrowing her tilted eyes, she studied the Domani, and pursed her lips. "What is it that brings you to my rooms, Sister? Perhaps, you would like to speak to the Child of your experience in the Tower, or as a Blue?" All in all, Serena had no clue why Estel was there. Still, quite preturbed but never cold to her Ajah Sisters, the older Blue had a warmth in her heart for Estel. Expectantly, she fixed her eyes on the other woman and waited for an answer.

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Serena nodded as she finished the last bite of her honeycake. "They are nice, Child." The Blue had spent many hours in some of the secret Gardens located about the White Tower. The Blue Ajah had its own secret Garden called, The Sapphire Gardens. Sometimes, she even taught her mentee's there just to get out of the norm. Gray and white walls could get pretty boring after a few years.

"Well," the small Aes Sedai said as she pushed the chair out from under her. "we should probably head up there, then. I'll take you to the Quarters of my Ajah, then maybe to a select few of the Gardens." Embracing the True Source easily, Serena channeled a few threads of Air, picking up their cups and saucers and placing them in the sink. The novice with her elbows drenched in dirty soap water huffed and muttered. There was no need for Serena to scold the girl, Mistress Laras was on her right away.

Mentor and Mentee exited the Kitchens and headed for the corridors, once again. Up ramps and stairs they went, until finally they came to a hallway that was tiled a seperate colour from the rest. An archway opened into the halls of the Blue Ajah. Tapestries of fine art, fringed in blue, rippled with the cool draft that entered the tower through small cracks in the stone. Painted scenes of famous legendary Blues scattered the walls, along with small tables with stone carvings and sea folk porcelain. The floor tiles alternated between blue and white.

Turning around to face Zaire, Serena grinned with great pride. "This is my home in the White Tower." Sisters wrapped in blue shawls passed the two of them, some of them stopping to give Serena a nod or a smile. Accepted decorated the halls, as well. Most of them aspiring to the Blue Ajah.

Gliding to her rooms, Serena embraced the Source again and unraveled the Wards she had set on her threshold. Pushing open the heavy door, the smell of sweet Two Rivers tabac filled the air, helping the true feeling of home that the Aes Sedai felt every time she stepped over the threshold.

On the far side of the room, a window with a small balcony, let the warm sun hit her desk that was piled with papers. To the right, a fireplace stood unlit with a sofa and a few comfortable chairs facing towards it. To her left was her sleeping quarters, there was no need to show the novice that, just yet. She had just met the girl, for the Creators' sake.

Motioning for the girl to sit down on either the couch or a chair, Serena took her own seat and folded her legs up under her. "Do you think you could find your way here?" Smirking, Serena waited for an answer and any questions the girl might have.

Serena Sedai

Blue Ajah

Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

Devoted Member to the Order of the Rose

OOC: Just so you know, I posted the beginning to your first lesson here: http://whitetowerdiv.org/forum/viewtopic.php?p=47400#47400

OOC: My reply, at last! I apologize for the lateness of this reply. I really had to dig up some information on this. I'm excited to finally get it going again.

IC: As the last skirts swished out of the tents, Serena had gone directly to work on her return letter to Sirayn. With her heart beating loudly in her ears, she felt as if the Wise Ones would be able to hear it and detect what she was doing. Childish and foolish, she knew; however, if they knew what she was up to, there would be severe punishment. As the candlelight flickered, Serena began to encode her letter.

Sirayn Sedai,

It is with great honour and thanks that I received your letter. Have no fear of others finding out about the Order of the Rose, or of our communication. None, even of my own Ajah, are aware of the Oaths and ties that bind us, nor will they ever. I understand the importance of keeping such secrets, and I would not wish anything untoward to happen to you or the Order. I swear to hold onto that to my death and beyond.

Never, even as a novice still in freshly washed white, have I ever been in such a predicament as the one I am in now. You are correct in stating that the boy Dragon has channellers on his side that are not of his lunatic regimen. They are the Aiel women, who call themselves Wise Ones. Not all can channel, and I am still figuring out how their ranks work. Non-channellers can be Wise Ones, as well, and sometimes hold authority over the channellers. That is beside the point, but I feel it is a necessary piece of information. These women watch over the Dragonsworn, and have made pacts with us that we could not deny. They have taken us on as their apprentices, and treat us with harsh vigour that hardly befits a novice.

I am not struggling or afraid for my life; however, there are Aes Sedai here who have been placed in the black woolen robes of what the Aiel call dat'sang, or "the Despised Ones". Sheena do'Amoren is among them. These captive Sisters are drvien to perfom all sorts of arduous and meaningless tasks. Out of all of this, I would say they have it the worst. Being an apprentice to the Wise Ones, though exhausting, has put me in a place where I can eavesdrop on what the Aiel women let out of their mouths around us. Some of these women are incredibly strong in the One Power, and some of them quite weak. I have overheard them speak of "the Dream", and I am more than positive that they speak of Tel'aran'rhiod.

We are held in a camp just outside of Cairhien, and some of us are often taken into the topless towers of the Sun Palace. Men in black coats stream the streets of Cairhien and corridors of the palace. The boy is much stronger than anticipated, much to my chagrin. His army of madmen is much larger and stronger, as well. It grows like the poisened vines of The Blight. These men seem to have ranks, as well. Some wear no pins on their collars, but others either have a silver sword, or a sword and dragon on the collars of their black coats. I have not had much chance to study them, or to understand their ranks. Have no fear that I will study all that I can about these men. THey may be more of a danger than we have ever thought. The madness does not seem to be about them, as I had previously thought. This is also a danger, how will I be able to tell which men are not sane if they do not show it? Not a question for you to answer, but a thought to merely put out there.

The women that are holed up in the tents of the Aiel Wise Ones with me are as follows: Kartos Dal'Avier(Blue Ajah), Kara Bankshee(Of your very own Green), Cerianth De'Corenn(Yellow Ajah), Sarai Decoa(Yellow Ajah) and Sheena do'Amoren (Blue Ajah). I do not doubt your expertise in the strategies of Battle, Sister; yet, the Aiel have used their One Power against us and I am not sure they will not do it again. There are so many Wise Ones here, I am not sure it would be beneficial to form a second rescue party. No more Aes Sedai blood needs to be shed, atleast until I can figure out a better way.

Audience with the Dragon Reborn is slim, and he hardly requests the sight of any of us. He no longer trusts Aes Sedai at all, and does not seem to want to take on any type of advisor. I fear the White Tower has made a grave mistake in trying to retrieve him, but what is done, is done.

I have heard nothing further of importance to anyone, especially to you. As soon as I hear anything, it will be in your hands as if I had learned to make objects Travel.

By the way, concerning the dark scarred woman. I believe I did see her, though I cannot be sure. Please, never apologize for anything that concerns helping you or the Order of the Rose. I merely stepped in when I thought I had to. I could not let the leader of such a strong Order, and a woman of such stature and importance to me fall into the hands of the Creator, just yet. It was not time, Sister. I swore to serve you, and I do.

I will have my agent return to me as soon as another letter is received. She is loyal to me, which makes her loyal to us.

Under the Light,

Serena Morrigan

Sister of the Blue Ajah

Serena nodded as the novices spoke, and turned quickly on her heel to lead the way to the kitchens. Obviously, Zaire had no idea why she would be spending so much time in the kitchens.Well, she would soon find out. Down the dark corridors, there was really not much to see at this point. The way always seemed a little dark and dreary, perhaps it was because of the memories one had of the area, or it simply was that way.

Shrugging off her thoughts, Serena lifted her chin as she thought she could smell fresh honeycakes wafting down the hallway. It would be good to finally get something to eat. As the two entered, the Mistress of the Kitchens immediately set eyes on them. With a wooden spoon in one hand, the plump woman waddled over to the Aes Sedai and novice.

"Is this one here for some...direction? Faerzyne Sedai mentioned nothing to me of a penance." Mistress Laras eyed Zaire and whirled her wooden spoon around in the air as if she might strike the girls bottom.

Serena gently touched Zaire's arm and smiled at Laras. "No, not this one. I am merely taking her about the Tower, so she will feel more comfortable once her training really begins." The Blue cast her eyes about the Kitchens, several novices in their pale white dresses, and Accepted in their rainbow hems, were already elbow deep in soapy water, or soot. "This," Serena gestured as she turned to Zaire. "is where you will be spending alot of your time. Hopefully, you wont be spending TOO much time here, but that all depends on how well you behave." Levelly, she met Zaire's eyes.

"Many penances are served here, chores are done quite often, and Mistress Laras will need all the help she can get." As she finished, Serena grabbed a couple honey cakes, and ordered some tea. Pulling up a chair for Zaire and herself, she asked. "Would you like one, Child? You must be starving after your journey."

As another novice brought some tea, the two sat down to munch on a honeycake and sip their warm drinks. "Now, the Dining Halls are where you will be eating. If you like I can show them to you, however, is there something here that you would like to see? There are plenty of Gardens, some woods, and ponds, as well. I can take you the Blue's Quarters, because that is where I will have you meet me some of the time." Sipping on her tea, she watched Zaire over the rim of the cup. What kind of Aes Sedai would this girl make?

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

OOC: Holy lateness, batman. I'm exhausted, too, so please just put up with this post. Thanks.

IC: The night grew thick and enveloped the sleeping Blue, without her even being aware of it. A loud clanging noise, and the sound of screams, startled Serena out of her well-needed rest. The air felt wrong. Glancing over to her side, the Blue searched for Thera, yet knew she would not be there. The rift that had grown between them could have been a large thick wall, which made the Blue incapable of letting her Gaidin know how she really felt.

clang

Arching an eyebrow in the pure darkness of her room, Serena searched blindly for the source of the sound. What in the-... The sounds began to pick up speed and grew closer and closer to her. Bloodcurdling screams echoed from the corridors outside of her room, causing her skin to crawl. Reaching through the suffocating darkness, to grab a robe to wrap around herself, the Blue jumped onto the floor. As soon as her bare feet hit the hard wood, she felt a sharp pain in her foot. Recoiling from what felt as if she had stepped on a large thorn, the Saldaean woman yelped and moved to step in a different direction. Again, as her foot came close to the floor, something stabbed at her again.

clang, clang, clang

The rythmic sound of metal hitting wood jogged a memory hidden deep within Serena's mind. Where had she heard that exact sound before? Shaking her head, she crouched down to the floor and reached out before her. A clang, then stabbing sensation in her hand. What in the light was she to do? Biting her lower lip, Serena embraced the True Source and wove a Shield around her. It seemed to work for the time being, but the loud clanging never stopped. As she headed for the door, stumbling in the darkness, she could hear the metallic sound come after her.

Reaching for the door, something whizzed passed her ear and struck the door...hard. The resonance of wood being struck by metal seemed to revurberate up the Aes Sedai's arm. In frustration and irritation, Serena channeled a small flame that seemed to hover above her hand. Tilted emerald eyes widened at the site before her. The loud clanging noise continued, and when she saw what it was, she remembered where she had heard the noise before. Grasping for her hair, the Blue could not forget the night that she and Kieryn had to chop off her long silky raven hair. Her blades had sought her life before, now, they were after her again.

Swallowing a large lump in her throat, Serena threw open the door and ran out into the corridor. Blood seemed to stream out onto the blue tiles, defiling what it meant to be a Blue Sister. Her daggers flew passed her, as she attempted to dodge them every time. They seemed to have a life of their own. At an intersection of hallways, a standlamp seemed to stretch out to stop her. It wrapped the long brass arms of the candlabra around her leg, then her arms. The Shield she had wrought had disintegrated long ago, somewhere between being chased by her own weapons, and tripping over body parts of her sisters. Cool brass snaked it's way up her back and around her neck, slowly closing her throat. Stars flashed in her peripheral vision and she became tired, exhausted, ready to give in to the Dark One's touch.

Short raven hair bounced slightly as her chin began to drop towards her chest. The darkness was closing in, and there was nothing she could do. Saidar was a distant memory. Suddenly, someone came screaming passed her. The voice of a younger Sister, and a Sister closer than others new. Estel Liones...The name bit through the numbing the lack of oxygen was creating. Clenching her teeth, Serena attempted to grasp onto Saidar again and again. At last, it came, when she had practiced the calming novice excercise well enough to have fallen asleep and died, the True Source came to her. Wrapping threads of Earth and Air around the brass that held her captive, Serena was able to pull the metal away from her. Breaking free was only the beginning, as the standlamp fell back against the wall, it was as if her daggers had been waiting for her, just in case.

Dashing down the corridor, Serena searched up and down for Estel, but could not find her. As she was about to give up, she practically trampled the Domani woman, who was in a bloody heap on the floor. "Oh, Light, Estel!" Sticky wetness seeped through Serena's toes as she stepped in her Sisters blood. Reaching down for the other Blue, the Saldaean Aes Sedai wrapped Estel up in her arms. With each hand on either side of Estel's head, Serena began to Heal the other woman. With her strength in the One Power lying in Water, Spirit came a close second. Although Serena's strength in the One Power, at all, was not much, her skill was greater than most. Delving into her younger Sister, and doing the best she could at Healing, Serena was unable to do much else. Seemingly unaware of the chaos that occured around them, the raven-haired Aes Sedai was not prepared for the striking blow that ended her weaving abruptly. Unable to comprehend what had just struck her in the back, Serena crumpled forward in a heap over Estel, sticking straight up out of her shoulder was her own glistening blade.

Darkness ensued...

Serena Morrigan

Blue Ajah

Bonded to Thera Trakelyn

Not Dead, but Seriously Injured