Beauty is in the eyes of... uuuuhhhmmmm... never mind.

"Well,", Ellen Sedai began then hesitated before continuing, "that is not entirely correct." Jolly Jonnie could tell that he had a puzzled look on his face. Ellen Sedai motioned for him to have a seat in a nearby chair and she pulled up one for herself. "You remember that I am unable to tell you a lie, correct?". Jonnie nodded. "Even though I have never actually lied to you there was one instance where I... bent... the truth... somewhat.". She blushed and lowered her eyes as if waiting for a reply. Jonnie told her to go on. She sighed then continued.

"Do you remember the year that you were just beginning to really enjoy yourself during the Celebration of the Low Tide? The year that you woke the next morning needing my Healing for your sore head from too much wine? And I took a year sabbatical shortly after that?". Jonnie nodded and she continued. "Do you remember that when I returned I brought with me the infant child Lonnie?". He nodded again. She blushed again. "I ...implied ...that the child was an orphan. He was not. I am his mother. You are his father.". By the time she finished she was almost breathless. Jonnie nearly fainted.

"WHAT!!!", he shouted as he jumped from his chair. He considered calling her a liar but caught himself. Besides being totally impossible, it was NEVER a good idea to treat an Aes Sedai that way. She could have decided there and then to deny him the Healing that he would be needing in the near future. Herbs just would not be the same, he was sure. In stead, he walked over to the rail. He still wasn't sure that he would not pass out or be sick. He stood there watching the waves slamming against the side of the ship wishing that he something left in his stomach that he could throw up. His headache was worse. He went back and sat back down.

Ellen Sedai placed her hands on his shoulders. Without asking she used her Healing on him. He recognized the feeling. It wasn't as intense as past treatments but it did make him feel better almost immediately. Even though he was grateful he gave her an evil look. "Please ask me before you do that.". Her face showed that his words had hurt her feelings. Jonnie felt terrible. "I'm sorry.", he muttered. She nodded then vowed that she would ask first in the future. They both smiled.

"So.", Jonnie began after a long awkward silence, "tell me. How did this happen? And how did you keep it secret so long? Why?". She must not have anticipated these questions because it took her some time to answer.

"How did it happen?", she almost whispered. "You were so young and strong. And beautiful. Full of fun. I had no business getting involved with you. But, we were both enjoying the wine far too much that night. I lost my self control and took advantage of your condition. You don't remember that night on the beach but I will never forget it. Nor will I regret it. My best dreams are those when I remember us being together on the sand. Caressing each other. Enjoying the company. Kissing and talking. It was foolish wine talk, yes, but it was so pure and uninhibited. In the end you passed out and I was with child.". She smiled a contented smile.

"Secret? The only secret that I kept was about who the child's parents were. If you remember correctly I asked if you could raise him as your Ward. He has been your son in every way except for your acknowledgment. He has lived under your roof. Eaten your food. Received the same training that your heir would have otherwise. He even enjoys your love. Do you deny any of that?" Jonnie shook his head "No.". "Had I told you when I returned that Lonnie was your son then things could have been far more complicated and harder to explain to your subjects. They might have even insisted upon having you replaced. For your sake and the sake of our son I chose the path that we have followed for these many years. Until now, it has not been necessary to tell you the rest of the story.".

Jonnie smiled and sighed. Once more he remembered why he felt so much love for this woman. And, as of today, he has a son! An heir! He had always loved Lonnie like a son and now he WAS his son! Down the road it might be tricky getting his subjects to accept all of this along with the fact that he was in love with an Aes Sedai. But, the Pattern willing, somehow it would all work out just fine.

==========================================================================================

Boris was snoring. Not loud nor obnoxious. Soft. Intermittent. Shallow. It was a cute kind of snore. Kerrie loved to watch him sleep. She could hardly wait until the day came that they didn't have to hide their feelings and she could watch him sleeping in their very own bed every night. There had to be a way. Somehow.

The chest. That awful, bloody chest! It didn't belong to her and she had to find some way to stop thinking about it! There had to be another way of getting the money that they needed. Maybe she and Boris could find other work to supplement what they were earning now. He could spend a little of their nest egg to buy a boat. With so many of the fishermen leaving Cross Village to follow the Dragon Reborn there were plenty of fish to be taken and Boris was strong enough to handle the task. Maybe she could take in some laundry for extra money. She could do it during her breaks. Master Greggory wouldn't mind as long as she got his work done. Laundry and fish. That should help some. The chest would be quicker.

Kerrie reached over and slapped Boris on the chest with the palm of her hand. It made a loud CRACK and she realized that she had swung harder than she meant to. Oh, well. What's done is done. Boris sprang upright and grabbed where he had been swatted. "What did I do?", he asked with a puzzled look on his face. Kerrie just frowned and said "you were snoring and we need to talk.". She jerked the sheet off from him and wrapped it around herself then got up. She walked to where she had piled her clothes then proceeded to put them on after tossing the sheet back to Boris. Boris went to his pile to get dressed.

"So.", he grunted, "What's so all fired important? I was sleeping really good! I've had a couple of hard days and needed some decent rest!". He was frowning. He sure was grumpy when he first woke up. She would cure him of that some day. But for now there was more important stuff to work on. "We need to find a way to make more money. How will we ever get to be together if we can't afford a decent place to call our own? If we are ever going to have a family then we will need a house and yard big enough for us and the children. I don't earn enough to buy what we need and neither do you. What are we going to do?".

Boris had that "you woke me up for THIS?" look on his face. Kerrie hated that look. How dare he? This was IMPORTANT! And all that HE could think about was SLEEPING!!! Men!!! "You can't live with them but you dare not stab them", as the old saying from Ebou Dar went. Overall, Boris was just right as men went. But, at times like this, he could be almost as bad as any of the rest of them! "EEERRRRRRRrrr!!!", Kerrie exclaimed as she headed for the door. Boris finished pulling on his shirt then shrugged and followed her.

As was so clearly described in one of my RP posts, when I awaken from this dream I will rejoin my family at the beehive to await my next dream. Seeing as how they are busy as bees, they would probably frown on me sleeping forever. I will have to flap my wings to help keep the hive at the correct temperature or I might have to go to collect pollen. I might even have to fight off intruders. No time for sleeping. Not that I won't get tired. If I get too tired I'll probably take a nap and be sent to my next dream. When I awaken from THAT dream it will be back to the old grind again until I get too tired and need a nap. And so on.

I recently purchased a 2007 PT Cruiser so it will have to hit someone else's pickup.

OOC: in case you missed it, there is an extra "Friday" post this week (see above). Daeve should have sliced up the mouse.

"What are your plans for me? And how are you able to use the adam? I thought that only WOMEN could use those dastardly devices.". Rosie was obviously upset. This amount of emotion did not hold with Rourke's impression of her. She really didn't like the adam or the fact that he could control her with it. She had also deduced that the adam was a part of his plan for her. She had a fine mind, indeed. He purposely let her stew for a few moments before answering.

"I plan to use the adam to keep you under control.". He could have told her that the cost of an apple was two coppers. No emotion. Just a simple fact. Nothing out of the ordinary. He knew different as well as she. He might as well have poked her in the ribs with a stick and she knew that he had done it on purpose. She was NOT pleased. Nor did she appreciate his humor. His answer was so obvious that it was wasted breath. Rourke was only slightly embarrassed because he actually had been attempting humor which he rarely did for the simple reason that he was not very good at it. He smiled an apologetic smile.

"Please, forgive me.", he offered. "That was not appropriate of me. I understand that wearing the adam is not funny. In the future, I will try to avoid a similar blunder.". He waited for some sign that his rare apology had been accepted. Rosie's eyes told him that she knew how seldom he apologized for ANYTHING and her nod said that it was accepted in the spirit that it was given. "Let me begin again.".

"If all goes well, and if the Pattern so pleases, one day soon I will be Emperor.". Rourke did not bother saying anything about "may the Empress live forever" because the only way that he could get to be Emperor would be for the Empress to be dead. Even though it was the constant goal of every High Lord and High Lady to achieve top leadership, mentioning that goal out loud was cause enough for instant beheading if the wrong ears caught wind of it. Even an accusation by a damane could be damning. The dice were tossed. Rosie's reaction would tell how they fell.

The initial shock disappeared quickly from Rosie's eyes. She was a seasoned veteran. Hard as stone when necessary. Cautious. Cunning. Yes. Rourke had chosen the perfect ally. Being able to control her use of the One Power was his ace in the hole. He could see her figuring it all out. His plan was unraveling in her mind. She was able to see it working even though he had not disclosed it to her. She could easily be considered brilliant. Either that or she was going to be sick. Her face went pale. She started to sway. Before she could hit the floor Rourke caught her. When she was able to, she spoke.

"You will use me to get what you want then I will be discarded just like you plan to do with your Truth Teller. I will experience a small amount of freedom as long as I am valuable to you. When you have no more use for me I will be... disposed of.". She shuddered once then steeled herself and thrust herself upright defiantly.

Rourke felt something that he had not felt in a very many years. Over the course of earning the position that he now enjoyed he had learned to ignore emotion. He pretended to use it when he had to for personal gain but other than that emotion was a negative trait to be avoided at all cost. It could lead to becoming soft and incapable of making hard decisions. One did not get to be High Lord by riding the waves of the emotion ocean. But, for this brief instant for a reason that he could not explain he felt himself softening just a smidgen.

"That WAS my initial plan. I am presently reconsidering in favor of... other options.". He dare not say more. She was DAMANE! Even if she wasn't, she had NOTHING to offer him! She had no title or property or land holdings. She was not the leader of any recognized enemy who could offer him greatness through an alliance. She had no wealth. She was nothing more than a plain, insignificant, damane. And he had nearly offered her the position as Empress if his plans succeeded!!! He clapped his hands for a servant. It was time for some Two Rivers tabac and a nice hot cup of kaf!!!

============================================================

The last tone sounded on the clock in the common room at Kelsey's and Daeve couldn't help letting out a huge sigh of relief. Ever since that blasted mouse had entered his bed chamber he had been concerned that his future bride would die today. Now, today was over and she was sitting at a table across the room rubbing her tired toes. Daeve smiled. Then the thought hit him that if she was OK then someone else that he cared about was dead. He had not, after all, taken the time necessary to ward off that evil. Without knowing WHO it was exactly, he thought a silent prayer wishing their soul a safe journey home and a pleasant rebirth. There was nothing else that he could do.

Even with that unpleasant thought still in mind he realized that today had been rather pleasant in spite of his worry. He and Kerrie had walked to the market which gave them about a half hour each way to chat. She got him a very good rate of exchange for his gold piece. They shared some fruit on the walk back to Kelsey's. He had even gotten so bold as to ask her if there was a particular house that she had hoped to someday raise her family in. They took a detour to see an old fisherman's cottage with a nice big oak tree for shade and a storage shed that looked sturdy. It even had a nice new outhouse and a freshly strung laundry line. Kerrie sadly told him that she had heard that someone had already bought the place but that there were plenty of others available with all of the crazy people chasing off to follow the Dragon Reborn. That had given him some idea of her taste so he would have a better idea of what to look for.

She should have been a singer. Her voice was like music to his ears. Some women had that awful, screeching tone when they talked. Others spoke as if they held a chip on their shoulder that they just dared you knock it off. Not Kerrie. She was polite and friendly. Probably from all of those years waiting tables. She spoke softly yet knowledgeably. Daeve really had regretted it when they finally got back to Kelsey's and she had to get back to work.

It had been a VERY long day after that. He didn't want to let her out of his sight for fear that something would happen to her. He didn't want to keep ordering ale as a reason to watch over her for several reasons. Ale cost money. Ale could get a man drunk. Ale made a man pee and while he was gone doing that something bad could happen to her. She could die while he was getting rid of ale. The same could be said for ordering food, except for getting drunk of course.

So, he sat. He asked for a book then pretended to read it while watching over the top of it to see that she was safe. He introduced himself to a wagon driver who was sitting with his back to where Kerrie was working then asked if he could join him. After an hour or so of trading jokes and traveler's tales the driver finished his meal and returned to his wagon. Daeve was ashamed that he had chased off one of Master Greggory's paying patrons. But, Kerrie was OK. He watched the musicians and the dancing customers until that blessed clock finally chimed the end of the day.

Since it was well beyond his normal retirement time he left a tip on his table then made his way up to his room. After he had his clothes off he resolved to purchase some proper night clothes. If he was going to be civilized he might as well dress the part. He made his way to the wash basin to clean up for the night and there it was. Bloated from eating most of his cake of soap and floating face down. That rascal of a rodent had drowned in his washing dish. He knew that that would not be the same as if he had killed it and sliced it up himself, but he still hoped that perhaps at least this meant that whoever died would not have suffered too much in the process.

Gwampy likes sleep.

* nods *

If a tree falls in the forest and nobody hears it does it make a sound?

Oh piffle, at your age you didn't have much use for any of that anymore anyway.

Just wait. Someday your boobs will sag to your belly button. Would you want someone to come along and whack them off?

Yes.

I'm here on a Friday.

Couldn't wait until Sunday.

Anyway, wifey is working.

REALLY good post in RICH MAN/POOR MAN if I do say so myself.

Yup. Sighting that raven was the best thing that could have ever happened. Pure good luck. Rycke just couldn't believe how everything had turned out so wonderful. After all of these years of being Daeve's partner he was finally the boss. He had never dared to dream of owning his own wagon because his life had revolved around Daeve and HIS wagon. Now, because of one simple raven sighting, here he was perched on the seat of HIS wagon. "Pattern be praised.", he thought.

Rycke felt a little bit ashamed that he was feeling so good about his own situation and not really feeling sorry for his old friend. After all. They had shared countless nights in all kinds of terrain and weather. How many days had they had only each other for companionship? How many meals had they prepared for each other? Rycke was sure that if he concentrated really hard that he could remember how many years the two of them had been in business together but what would be the point? That was the past. Mostly fond memories. That was then and today is now. He nodded.

Poor Daeve. He really did believe that the sighting had been for him. Rycke had not wanted to spoil his excitement by letting him know that he had seen the omen long before Daeve had. The omen belonged to him, not Daeve. Now, here Rycke was atop a fine barely used wagon that they had purchased new when they arrived here and poor old Daeve was probably still wandering the streets of that flea speck of a village trying to find an apparition that did not exist. Sure, he had the lion's share of their savings but Rycke had the wagon. Poor, poor Daeve.

Then there was Ty. His full name was Tymathee but Ty was easier and sounded more like a wagon partner's name. It was surely the work of the Pattern that Rycke had been blessed with Ty. Young. Energetic. Strong as an ox yet gentle. Caring. Beautiful. With that cute little sprig of whiskers that he left in the shape of a triangle pointing down from his bottom lip. He liked Rycke and Rycke liked him. It wasn't quite love. Not so soon. But Rycke had no doubt in his mind that within a year or so the two of them would be far more than business partners. He could tell that Ty was having similar feelings. "Pattern be praised.", he thought again. He glanced at Ty and smiled.

It was Ty's turn to drive while Rycke sat guard. Riding guard could get boring on the most interesting day. A sore rump sometimes gave a guard something to concentrate on. Watching the passing scenery. Keeping a sharp eye out for possible bandits. Whittling. Honing a knife. Rycke had a favorite stone that he kept in his pocket. Over the years he had rubbed that stone perfectly smooth until it gleamed in the sunlight just by rubbing it between his thumb and fingers for countless hours while riding guard. If he really tried hard he could probably remember where he had gotten that stone but why? That was then and now was now.

Even with the time spent in Cross Village hunting for Daeve's "future wife" and the out of the way path that the raven had sent them down Rycke and Ty were almost back on schedule. After Rycke had explained to Ty that they could make up the time by getting an earlier start and driving longer into the evening they had agreed to do just that. Ty was anxious to see Tanchico. He had never been to a major city. Rycke assured him that he wasn't missing anything. Out here in the wilderness was better. But Ty still wanted to get there as soon as possible. So, push they did.

It reminded Rycke of the time that he had been milking his mother's cow when the old cat wandered up under the cow's belly and the cow missed kicking the cat and instead caught him squarely in the Adam's apple. That had immediately taken his breath away. Just like now. Rycke had just now felt that cow's hoof even though there wasn't any cow riding with him. Instinctively he reach up toward the sudden pain and found a small arrow protruding from both sides of his neck. That seemed strange. Why would there be an arrow in his neck?

For reasons unknown it took a few seconds for the reality of the situation to sink in. Maybe he was in denial. He had seen nothing even with his keen eye. The arrow had to be real because it was hurting but where had it come from? He looked toward Ty even though it made his neck hurt and found his answer. A figure covered with clothes that faded into the background with the exception of a black veil was removing the tip of a short spear from Ty's neck. The figure seemed to be deciding whether another stab was required or not. Rycke tried to scream but couldn't. He knew that even if he could move enough to retaliate that it was too late to save Ty.

"So called Aiel.", he thought. He had heard that some of them had come out from the Waste but why would one be over here on the Shadow Coast? And what were the odds against one of them deciding to steal HIS wagon? Somehow, this all just had to be the work of the Pattern. As Rycke gave up and slumped over to lean against Ty's dead body he decided that maybe that blasted raven really HAD been Daeve's after all.

Sheltered.

* shrugs *

OOOOOOOOOOOoooooooooouuuchhhh!!!

"Yohon will do just fine", Karlee told himself for the hundredth time. Just as Irene had been his personal assistant for all of these many years, Yohon had taken care of the books. In all of that time Karlee had never caught him skimming or so much as forgetting to carry a one. He didn't have Irene's people skills but he should be able to keep the ship afloat until Irene and he returned. The goat disputes would have to work themselves out or wait for Karlee to get back. For the hundred and first time he resolved to stop worrying about it.

The trip to Cross Village had only taken two days. In another couple of days his party would be boarding a fast Sea Folk ship and leaving for The Creator only knew where. The Pattern would determine if they departed Landalea from East Town or West Town. Karlee still didn't have any idea which way they would go. It might come down to the toss of a coin. More likely it would depend upon where a ship could be hired quickest. Just the thought of being so impulsive scared him and excited him at the same time. It was definitely out of character for him. His job required him to maintain a sound mind. This trek was far from sound. It was closer to insane. He could hardly wait!

"Good evening to you, Master Greggory. Tomorrow will be a busy day. I think I will retire early.". Karlee smiled to the owner of his favorite place to stay and nodded a small bow of his head in respect for his old acquaintance. Master Greggory gave his wishes for a restful sleep and returned the bowing nod. "Good night, Irene!", he called to where his secretary was sitting watching the patrons dancing to the music of a flute player, a fiddle player, and a harpist. She smiled and nodded. The musicians mistook his shout for a request and began playing a song that he did not recognize. Karlee had to admit that they were pretty good but he was tired. Irene had coaxed him into several dances that he had no idea how to do. She insisted that if he was going to truly enjoy this experience that he should "let his hair down" some. Her laughter had been worth the pain of his inability to dance.

Several of the other members of the group traveling with him were also drinking and dancing. Some of them knew the steps. Others tried desperately to learn. Those who had consumed the most wine didn't care. Most of them seemed to be having fun. For a moment Karlee considered going back to Irene's table and drinking enough wine to relax and have fun. Then he convinced himself that he should do the wise thing and get rested for tomorrow's toils. Some of those dancers would regret tonight when they had to perform their tasks in the early morning. That was their business. Karlee headed upstairs.

Karlee passed the doors of the rooms where his entourage would be sleeping and proceeded to the next stairway. Even though it meant climbing an addition set of steps, the best rooms were on the top floor. That few feet of height difference provided cooler, cleaner smelling breezes. Also, since they were more expensive and not rented out as often, the upper rooms were usually cleaner and did not smell of the previous patrons. Fresh bed linens were a given. That might not be true in the lower rooms unless someone had an accident in the night. Karlee unlocked his door and entered.

A candle was already lit for him. Since it wasn't raining his window had been left open to let in the cool breeze. Rose pedals scattered on the bed gave off a pleasant aroma. The oil that stayed on the coverlet would maintain that welcome odor all through the night. There was a pitcher and basin on a stand beneath a mirror for cleaning up. Karlee's maid had already laid out his night shirt. Other than the physical size of the room everything seemed similar to home. He even found a chamber pot in the corner by the bed. A quick glance told him that it had been cleaned since the previous patron's visit. This was exactly why he chose to stop a Kelsey's whenever possible. They knew how to treat their guests.

After he was clean and dressed for bed, he turned back the sheets and crawled in. He felt a little guilty that he had such a comfortable mattress while his help would likely sleep on a thin layer of down. But then he remembered that his father had explained to him that some of the comforts that he enjoyed were necessary to set him apart in the minds of those who were beneath him. If they all had comfortable beds they might lose some of their envy for his station. Envy was necessary for maintaining respect and respect was vital to keeping order. Sleeping on a comfortable bed was a small price to pay for keeping the peace. The same could be said for the clothes that he wore.

As Karlee allowed himself to relax he had a sudden thought that caused him to sit upright. From out of nowhere he wished that Irene had come up the stairs with him. He yearned to have her snuggled in beside him. He wanted her to cuddle up next to him. He wanted more. The thought took him by such surprise that he gasped out loud. What kind of cad was he? Where did he get off having such ideas? Sure, some nobles took advantage of their station and abused their help. Karlee had always prided himself that he was NOT like that! Until tonight! Just by having such thoughts he had all but committed the act itself. Shame stung his soul.

When he was sure that he had sufficiently punished his mind for misbehaving so and he was thoroughly convinced that it would never happen again, he laid back onto his nice, soft pillow and tried to think of anything at all that would keep him from having a relapse. Several times he caught his dirty mind trying to revive that nasty thought and quickly drove it away before it could bloom. What worked best was thinking about work. How many new wells would be needed to replace the ones that had gone bad or dried up? What could he do to offset the effects of the crops rotting in the fields? Should he send an envoy to the White Tower seeking aid? What were the other Mayors doing to help their people? Perhaps he should forget this foolishness and turn around and go home. "Yohon will do just fine", he thought as he finally faded off to sleep.

==========================================================================================

"It's just PERFECT!", Opel told herself as she stood in the back yard of her new home staring toward the back door. Even though they had already been there for more than a week the newness still hadn't worn off. Just yesterday her husband had strung a brand new clothes line at just the right height for her to reach. It was right outside the back door so she wouldn't have far to carry the wet clothes. And that BRAND NEW OUTHOUSE!!! Well, the boards weren't new. Neither were the nails. But her husband and her father had dug the hole and built within two days of moving in. It was level and square with overlapping boards to keep out the breeze. Two seats. A chimney at the back leading up to the vent at the top to let the smell get away. "Simply PERFECT!!!".

Opel could barely remember what the old fisherman looked like who had raised his family here. She did remember the old house that used to be next door on the left. The old man had torn that down and used the wood to build the storage shed that now stood strong and straight on that lot. She couldn't remember the shack that her mother said used to be on the other side. All that was there now were a couple of apple trees and one tall oak that gave a nice afternoon shade for her new home. HER NEW HOME!!! After all of these years she and her husband were finally settling down!

The inside of her house was not new but it was in very good shape. The attic was big enough for the boys to have their own room. They loved that. There was a bedroom for the girls to share on the main floor. That had belonged to the old fisherman's only daughter who Opel's mother said had been spoiled rotten. Opel didn't remember her, either. A roomy living room with a working fireplace that had seen very little use especially lately but would be nice if the weather ever took a turn for colder like it had last winter. There was even a couple of wooden benches and chairs. And a window to let in the breeze. The dirt floors were now covered over with boards that her father had been saving for a rainy day.

The kitchen had a built in hearth with an oven in the mantle. Inside the fire box was enough room for a large pot to be swung in on the solid metal hook. Two large shelves for the dishes. Another window. The fisherman had left a good sized table and a few chairs. Opel's husband had found a couple more that had been abandoned by people leaving town to join the Last Battle. That still bothered him some but he was getting better. His love for his family was winning that war. He also brought home a couple of stools so the kids could help with dishes. Opel couldn't wish for more if she tried.

They had found this place entirely by accident. Or, perhaps by Will of the Pattern. Yes. That was more likely. Anyway, they had been on their way to the market one morning when Opel's mother said right out of the blue "I wonder what ever happened to Old Jess the fisherman's place?". Since it was only a street over from where they were walking anyway, they checked it out. Mistress May who lives next door told them that "that crazy old coot just up and left! Told me I could have his place. Sell it for what I want. That's what he said.". She asked a fair price and Opel paid it.

Now, here she was standing in her very own back yard still not believing that all of this was happening. Part of her expected to wake up from some silly dream. If she woke up and her husband was still gone then it would be a nightmare. She still couldn't cry. But, at least she was beginning to believe that maybe that day would return soon. And maybe her dreams really were coming true.

Proctologist?

We wouldn't want you any other way.

"I didn't realize it before now. If I did have any inkling about how I really felt about you I didn't allow myself to acknowledge it. I am not deserving. A common man, even of my elevated station, has no business dreaming about becoming involved with an Aes Sedai. I know my place. I am below you. I can never be your equal. You and I...it just... couldn't possibly work. Especially now.". Jonnie tried not to look like a whipped puppy but couldn't help lowering his eyes to the deck below his feet and pouting slightly. He waited patiently for Ellen Sedai to say something. Anything.

When she remained silent for a little too long he just had to look up. Sure enough. She was staring at him. He knew she would be. After this many years working together he had learned pretty much what he could expect from her. Her expression, however, was NOT expected. She was smiling. And BLUSHING!!! Jonnie had expected to see her frowning and pondering whether to have him flogged or filleted. Instead, she was squirming like a teenage girl at a dance. She even giggled a small, delicate giggle. Her eyes shown and they had a trace of moisture in them. Most unexpected of all, she lunged toward him and applied a huge bear hug. Well. Sort of a bear hug. Only better.

"You have no idea how long I have yearned for this moment.", she sighed into his shoulder as she rubbed her hair under his nose. It smelled of rose pedals and tickled. Part of him wanted to push it away before it caused him to sneeze but another part of him wanted to inhale as deeply as he could to draw in every possible drop of her essence. She held him tight. VERY tight. He tried not to panic and push her away. She had yearned for this moment? What? She wanted to tell him that he would die soon? Then it hit him. SHE loved HIM, too!!! And apparently she had felt that way for some time just as he had about her!

"CRAP!!!", Jonnie blurted out as he struggled to free himself from Ellen Sedai's grasp without hurting her. She was pretty strong for a girl. Or, maybe she was using the One Power on him somehow. When he was finally standing staring blankly at her and she was waiting for him to explain himself he came to his senses enough to speak. "You mean that you have feelings for me, too?". He couldn't keep the disbelief from coming through in his voice. She nodded and smiled almost meekly. That was not like her at all. "For a long time?". Another smile that was not meek at all but almost sensual. Her eyes sparkled. That was not like her, either.

"I did not want to ruin our relationship by letting you know how I felt. As long as I was simply your adviser I could remain close to you and speak openly to you about almost anything except how I loved you. I was very careful not to allow you to find out because I didn't want you to send me away. I had no idea that you had feelings for me.". Ellen Sedai was almost breathless. And glowing radiantly. She had just removed the weight of the entire world from her shoulders. She was in love with Jonnie and he knew it after all of this time. Her expression told the story clearly. Jonnie smiled back at her then lowered his gaze to the deck again.

"Are you sure? Am I... going to die... soon?". He was almost whispering.

Ellen Sedai lifted his chin so she could look squarely into his eyes. "Yes, my love.", she spoke softly yet in her normal businesslike tone. "You have what many refer to as 'The Slow Death'. Your body has decided to destroy itself and no amount of Healing will ever reverse it. It usually starts in one place then gradually spreads. Eventually your vital parts stop functioning. Some people lose one or two things at a time. Others lose several all at once. Regardless, the end result is that you die. It might take a few days or a few weeks. Some people last for a year or two. My Healing can help with the suffering but the Pattern has made up it's mind that it is your time to die and that will be that.". She was very good at maintaining her businesslike tone when necessary. Jonnie loved that about her. Among other things. She gave him time to think about what she had said.

"I have no heir.", Jonnie muttered part to himself and part to the wind. Ellen Sedai smiled an understanding and loving smile.

=========================================================================================

Since that strange old man Daeve had moved into Kelsey's, Kerrie had become obsessed with the knowledge that he had a large trunk in his room that just HAD to contain enough gold for her and Boris to start the life together that they both so longed for. So far, she had said nothing to Boris about it. Men sometimes did stupid things that they regretted later. She would work this out by herself. There was plenty of time. Boris and she had waited this long. A little longer would hurt nothing. But the thought of that chest of gold just kept popping back into her head. Luckily, Tuna hadn't figured out the secret yet.

The lunch crowd was gone. On most days there were several hours of slow time in the early after noon. This time was needed to get everything tidied up before the evening bunch got there. Once things were ship-shape, Master Greggory didn't mind if the girls relaxed for a while to get rested up. This is exactly what Kerrie was in the middle of when Daeve came flying down the stairs. His face was white as a clean sheet. He was panting and almost frothing at the mouth. He was definitely excited about something. He looked wildly about the common room until at last he fixed his glare upon her. He almost immediately relaxed and sighed. A small satisfied smile formed on his face and he continued down the stairs almost calmly. He went to his favorite booth and sat down motioning for a cool beverage.

Yes, he surely was a strange fellow. And he had confirmed to her that he was from Seanchan. He had been a wagon driver for "far too many years" and was determined to plant his roots here in Cross Village.

OOC: for the life of me I can't remember ever giving a name to the town where Kelsey's is located. If I did, and it is not Cross Village, please ignore the old name and rewrite this one into your memory chip. Thanks. Love, Gramps.

He seemed to be a harmless fellow. Almost likable. Easy going. He said that he had learned lots of jokes and wagon driver's tales that he would be willing to share. She was even getting used to the weird way that he talked. He was a steady paying customer who behaved himself. There wasn't so much as a pinch on the butt for any of the waitresses from him. As wagon drivers go, he seemed fairly tame. Maybe he was just getting tired after all of those years traveling. It was time for him to settle down and take it easy.

That's what made that chest of gold so tantalizing. Kerrie was sure that if she explained to Daeve about her needing money to be able to settle down with Boris this strange old Seanchan man would probably loan it to her without hesitating. Blood and ashes. He'd probably GIVE her the money outright if she took the time to smile while asking him. Or maybe show him a little shoulder. She had caught him sneaking a peak a few times. Nothing bad. Just a normal dirty old man who can't change his old habits. Harmless enough. She really didn't want to hurt him just for his money. Especially not if he planned to become a citizen of Cross Village.

Kerrie took Daeve his drink and gave him a quick friendly smile and wink as she sat it down on his table. She was taken aback when he asked if she had time to walk to the market with him to buy some fruit. She considered lying about having too much to do but changed her mind when he added that he also would need to trade his piece of gold for some local change. It was a strange coin that she had never seen before. Seanchan, he told her. With those foreigners controlling everything from Ebou Dar to Tanchico their gold had to be the most valuable right now. She assured him that she would get him top silver for his gold. Boris watched as they exited through the front door.

I think my metabolism must be out of whack. Either that, or I haven't been hitting the beans hard enough lately. I don't seem to be a gassy as usual. Should I be concerned? Is there a doctor in the thread?

Some days I'm younger than other days. Most days I'm 57. Until April Fool's Day.

I've reconsidered last week's comment. Who cares if only 2 people read my writing as long as I enjoy it. And what's an hour or two here or there? How many people in this country go MONTHS without actually enjoying ANYTHING!!! I like to RP (or anyway that's what I call it). It's free. It gives me pleasure. If somebody doesn't like it, they don't have to read it. No harm done. A few hundred bytes that could have been wasted elsewhere. And, after I'm dead and gone who knows...maybe I'll get famous posthumously!!!

Rourke briefly considered giving a truthful explanation of his intents then caught himself. That move could have proven fatal. Even if trust had been established between them some things were just better left unsaid. It was far to soon to disclose anything that could be used against him. But, on the other hand, this one was far from naive. He had to give her enough without crossing the line. Keep her interested and under control. Sometimes it takes patience to land a large fish.

"You're right.", he finally answered. "I do have something to gain. But I am not yet ready to tell you everything. Surely you understand.". Rosie looked thoughtful then nodded. "I thought that you would.", Rourke said with another slight smile. This woman would be a tough adversary in a game of stones. With the right guidance she could be a valuable ally. "For now, just assume that my plans will profit me. This is important enough that it caused me to speak to you. That in itself is a rarity. In our society it just is not done.". He was talking WAY too much! Let her chew on what he had said. He settled back and crossed his palms on his lap.

Rosie did seem to be processing what he had said. Perhaps she really had been some sort of leader of those women running loose with no adam to keep them under proper control. At the very least she was skilled in the Game. She understood the value of caution and patience. Her observation of him made him uneasy. Perhaps it was the remembrance of her finding him handsome. It was one thing to suspect that a woman felt that way about you and it was something entirely different to KNOW what she thought! "STOP! Those thoughts are totally irrelevant! Concentrate! Don't lose control!". Rourke did not like what he was feeling.

"I really hope that I am not missing anything here.", Rosie finally said. Rourke realized that they had both been silent for quite some time. "For you to step outside your comfort zone as you have, your motivation has to be extreme. You have much to lose. In your mind you must have a great deal to gain. Somehow, I am valuable enough to you that you are willing to take a huge risk.". She lowered her eyes and thought some more. "You do know that I am incapable of telling a lie, correct?", she said to her lap.

Rourke stared at the top of her head while searching for a reply. Had she really been able to think that far ahead without knowing the details of what he intended? That thought was REALLY frightening. Perhaps he HAD underestimated her abilities. Either that, or perhaps she had just gotten lucky while fishing. He could be getting ready to take her bait hook, line and sinker. If only he could gaze through those beautiful eyes to see what she was up to. "You have lovely eyes.".

Where in the name of the omens did THAT come from? Surely the pattern was standing on edge. Everything to the core of his soul told him that he could not have possibly have made that statement...but he knew just as well that he had. She knew it, too. She glanced up at him with a surprised look that gradually changed to a sly grin. Had this been a game of stones she would be claiming her victory at this exact instant. She might as well have been jumping up and down shouting at the top of her lungs that she had won! She did and said nothing of the sort. Instead, she eased her grin. "I need details of what you have in mind.".

===========================================================================================

Daeve paid his bill and thanked the owner of his former inn for his hospitality. With the help of a hired youngster he hauled his belongings to Kelsey's where he had arranged to stay while he searched for a proper dwelling. He didn't own much. A few changes of clothes. An extra pair of boots in the event that they were needed...you just never knew when you would need dry boots. Grooming essentials. All of which were piled inside his traveling chest on top of his life savings. That was why he kept the chest locked. The key hung from a leather cord around his neck under his shirt. The chest was heavy but the lad who was helping him was young and strong. For the silver penny that Daeve had offered he was sure the lad would have carried the chest by himself if not for Daeve's insistence that they carry the load together. Kelsey's was just a few more steps away. They could make it easily now.

Master Greggory had already shown Daeve his room so he and the lad did not need to hesitate. They went directly up the stairs to the second door on the right. Daeve pulled the room key from his left pants pocket and opened the door. He and the hired lad sat the chest next to the head of the bed. Daeve produced a silver penny and a copper from his right pocket and gave them to the lad with his thanks for doing an exceptionally good job. The boy smiled and bolted out the door. He obviously couldn't wait to part with his newly earned money.

The only window in the room looked down onto the main street. Daeve had the strangest feeling that he had seen this view before. Deja Vu. Then he realized that it was impossible since he had never been in this room before today. It must be his imagination.

OOC: yes, this room was in the Last Battle thread. Love, Gramps.

Since he thought it might be a few days before he found the right place to raise his family he decided to unpack some of his clothes. Most of them had been stored for quite some time so he thought he might even get them laundered just to freshen them up a little. Now that he was settling down, he might have to consider buying something other than work clothes. He would need a nice outfit to get married in. His bride might want to go out for dinner sometime. Maybe he would have to dress up to visit her parents. Did Kerrie have parents?

Kerrie. Perfect. What a beautiful name. He had almost swallowed his tongue when he asked her what her name was. How many names of lovely bar maids or waitresses had he learned and forgotten over the years? Since he heard the name Kerrie all of the old memories had been wiped clean. There was no longer any reason to recall what they looked like, either. Kerrie was the only name that mattered now. Kerrie. Perfect.

The cleanest clothes were hanging in the wardrobe. Those to be cleaned were in a heap on the bed. His spare boots sat beside the chest at the head of the bed. His money was accounted for to the last copper. He kept out one piece of gold that he would get changed into the local money so he could hire his laundry done. He really hated doing his own laundry. He also intended to visit the market for some fresh fruit. Most of the time he preferred meat and beans but every now and then fruit hit the spot. One piece of gold should cover everything that he needed to get done. There was plenty more where that came from when the time was right.

He put the gold coin in his right pocket and turned to leave. Under the bottom of the door he noticed some movement. Then he saw a nose with whiskers. Then a head. Followed by the rest of the mouse that was squeezing under his door. Daeve sat on his bed and grabbed at his heart. How could this be happening? Why today of all days? Who would be the loved one that would die? Rycke? One of his brothers or sisters? Or a niece or nephew? This omen was never misinterpreted. Someone that Daeve cared about would die today. Then Daeve felt his heart racing and he wanted so badly to turn back the hands of time so he could rush over and step on the nose of that mouse before it had a chance to come in! What if the omen meant that KERRIE was going to die? Daeve couldn't handle the thought. He didn't bother to chase the mouse back out of the room or to cut it into three even chunks to lessen the evil that it foretold. He bolted for the door and made up his mind to nothing else today but make sure that nothing bad happened to his future bride!

* hasn't the foggiest *

Wifey is watching the Disney version of Scrooge...AGAIN!!!

Oh, well.

That's her thing.

I shouldn't talk... I just spent an hour writing stuff that only twenty people in the whole world will ever see.

A person must enjoy something.

A scented candle, for which the smell is "fart". Happy Eostre.

Where in the world did you ever find one of THESE? It's just PERFECT!!!

Irene looked stunned. And for good reason. Karlee didn't fully understand for himself where the idea of a trip had come from. He supposed that it could be an OK idea. He had taken trips before. Some good. Some not so good. But those trips were nothing like what he now had in mind. Not just a week to Ebou Dar and back. Not a quick boat ride to Tanchico. His brain was telling him that he wanted an adventure. He wanted to experience his deeply hidden dream. He hoped that it wouldn't be the nightmare that Irene had spoken of.

"Forgive me if I caught you off balance. Perhaps I should explain myself.". He waited for her to answer but only received a nod. Taking that as a yes he continued.

"I want to do something special. I want to GO to SOMEPLACE special. I want to experience first hand what some of the tales tell about. I've never touched the Stone of Tear. I've never smelled the tanneries in Illian. I've never tasted roast Lionfish. Do you believe in snow? I can almost feel it's bitter cold but I have not touched it or watched it melt. Forgive me, but one day I would like to watch a Domani woman in action.". He felt his face turning red. "My point is, I want to see the world that I have heard so much about. If Shara was not so dangerous I almost think that I would like to visit there just to say that I had been there. Do you understand?".

Irene seemed to be mulling his words over inside her head. She was lost deep in her own thoughts. Karlee didn't exist. For several longs moments she sat, slightly slumped, breathing slow deep breaths, concentrating. At long last she raised herself to her normal proper stance and looked him directly in the eye. "I would be honored to accompany you on your quest.". She smiled. Not a huge beaming smile. Not a nervous smile. A simple, contented, satisfied smile. Karlee smiled back at her.

=======================================================================================

Opel still just could not believe that all of this was real. The past year without her beloved husband had seemed to last a lifetime. Now that he really was back... well... it just didn't seem possible. But it WAS possible and he WAS home!!! Here he was sitting having lunch in her parents home with her and all of their children! But, as things usually happen, that in itself presented a new problem. Where would they go from here?

Opel still had some of the money that they had saved while he was working in the woods and mining and fishing. Even though he had payed to get free of the military, he had managed to save a substantial sum because he had no expenses. Between the two they had enough for a good start here in their home town. With people deserting their farms left and right to run off to join the Last Battle there were plenty of established places to be bought fairly cheap. Same with fisherman's cottages. Those were a dime a dozen. And the fishing was good due to decreased pressure.

"So,", Opel's father said to her husband while smiling proudly, "where will you go from here, son?". He let out a soft burp in gratitude for his good meal and reached for his pipe and tabac. Opel's husband already had his pipe lit and was sitting back in his chair with his arms crossed on his belly. He was happy to be home. Opel smiled.

"I heard that the Lord Dragon is opening an Academy in Illian. I can go there to study under some of the greatest minds in the land. If I am lucky enough to be taken as an apprentice to one of them I might even MEET the Lord Dragon some day! Provided, of course, that all goes well with the Last Battle and all. But, even if I didn't meet him, perhaps I could be the person who discovers the next great discovery or something, right?". He winked at his father-in-law then peered toward Opel out of the corner of his eye.

"YOU!!! YOU are NOT funny!!!", Opel screamed as she threw a perfectly good saucer at her husband. As soon as it left her hand she realized what she had done but it was too late. She grabbed at it but only caught thin air. Her husband saw the missile approaching and put up his arm to deflect it just in time. He was OK, but the saucer slammed against the wall and shattered. Opel squeaked. Her father laughed. So did her husband. Apparently a broken saucer was a small price to pay for a good chuckle.

"Now, dearest,", her husband said in a consoling tone, "you know that I have no intention of ever leaving this town again. I've LEARNED my lesson! There's no place like home! There's no place like home! There's no place like home!". He blew out a smoke ring and sighed a contented sigh. "All I have to do is to choose between fishing and farming. Or, perhaps I could become a blacksmith. That's an honorable trade. I spent some time among them in the troop. Yes. Maybe that's what I'll do to support you and our darling family.". He made a loving gesture to his children. They smiled.

Opel apologized for the broken saucer and went to fetch a broom to clean up the mess. Her mother and the children cleared the table. The men retired to the living room with their pipes. It seemed to blessed good to have this family together again. Almost too good. After the year that Opel had just endured she was positive that something bad was going to happen. She just could not trust all of this good luck.

Stable bills.

Hay.

Shoes.

Vet bills.

Grooming.

Trimming.

Exercising.

Cleaning up pooh and pee.

Getting kicked.

Saddle sores.

Getting bucked off.

Sugar cubes.

Dental bills.

Etc.

Used car salesmen transitioned from being horse traders.

Try as they may, few of them ever get stinking rich and they live with tarnish on their reputations every day.

I'd like to be a professional gambler but they get the same bad rap as used car salesmen... not a trade that your grandma would approve of... but still a step above dealing Mary Jane.

How did I get started on all of this?

Oh, yeah... HORSES!!!

I don't get it.

What do eyes have to do with gargoyles?

Maybe a monster with one eye?

But, if you poke it out with something dull then it will be a blind monster...

Flying around in the dark scaring innocent people in the park...

Not realizing what it's doing at all...

Maybe it should just land on the ledge of a building and get hard as a rock.

* nods *

YUP!

That would do it, all right!

"HHHHUUUUUAAAAAHHHHHhhhhh...", Jonnie blurted out noisily as he coughed up the last of his breakfast. He spat to get the last few chunks out of his mouth. His head ached terribly. What little sunlight there was made his eyes hurt. This reminded him of the time that he and his cousin Filbert had sneaked that awful jug of wine from Filbert's father's secret stash and sucked down the entire thing as fast as they could. That memory sent him leaning over the rail for some more conversation with Master Ralph.

Ellen Sedai stood nearby with her hands on her hips tapping her right toe on the deck planks. The scowl on her face had all of the deck hands keeping plenty of distance. Most of them knew that she was Aes Sedai but that look on ANY woman's face would be enough to cause them to shy away. No, it wasn't hard at all to tell that she was less than pleased.

"There really is NO reason WHAT SO EVER for you to suffer so!!! The healing of sea sickness is a MINOR task!!! I could do it in my sleep!!! Why are you being so stubborn?". After a few moments Jonnie heard her whisper just loud enough for him to hear "silly man.". He knew that she couldn't see his face so he allowed himself a small smile.

"I'll be fine. You just said that this illness is minor. I will save your services for when I REALLY need them if you don't mind.". He had to stop talking. It made his head hurt. He squeezed his eyes tight and prepared for the next dry heave.

"Well, at least let me check to see that you don't have anything more serious going on. Just for the sake of caution. It won't hurt and it won't make you hungry. Please.".

Jonnie raised his head enough to look toward her. In all of his years he had seldom heard that word coming from her lips. And her sincere tone was almost frightening. The look on her face showed genuine concern. Jonnie almost felt ashamed for toying with her. He nodded then hung his head back over the railing.

Other than knowing that she had her hands on him he felt nothing. There was no flash of coolness or heat like there had been the few times that she had healed him. He didn't quiver or shiver or shake. He did feel a few seconds of slight relief of his upset stomach but that was probably because he was trying so hard to concentrate on detecting what she was doing. After all. She WAS using the One Power on him! No man could relax while in the clutches of an Aes Sedai no matter HOW friendly she might be! Ellen Sedai gasped and released her touch. Jonnie turned to see her face as white as his had to be.

"What's wrong?", he asked. His concern for her made him forget his own condition. It took her several long moments to answer.

"I...I...", she started but couldn't seem to continue. She almost seemed to be breathless. UNABLE to speak. Jonnie totally forgot his troubles and went to take her by the hands. She stared at him wide eyed. Then she began to cry.

"Ellen Sedai, WHAT IS WRONG?". Jonnie was sure that he had NEVER seen this much open emotion coming from her. Her dignity was a shield. It protected her. It made her better than ordinary people. For her to show her feelings so openly was like a soldier dropping his lance in the middle of a battle. It just wasn't done. It took a while but she gradually brought herself back into control and looked Jonnie hard in the eye.

"I...suspected...", she started again then paused to regain her composure. "For some time now I have noticed...changes...in your behavior. Small signs that only a trained eye would notice. Things that you yourself have probably shaken off as being a temporary nuisance or part of getting older. A missed step. Dizziness. Shortness of breath. Getting tired easily. Loss of appetite. An occasional cough or wheeze. Little things that by themselves are no big deal but when they reoccur and happen together they add up. I was almost afraid to check you for what I might find. You will die soon.".

"The sky is blue.", she might have said. "Winter will follow summer.", she might have said. From the tone of her voice she was convinced. There was no doubt. She couldn't be playing some elaborate joke because even if she was she could not lie. She was Aes Sedai. Yellow Ajah. If she said he was going to die, then he would die. SOON!

"I LOVE YOU!!!". Jonnie couldn't believe his own ears. Had he actually SAID that? Or was this part of the sea sickness and he only IMAGINED saying it? And where had it come from? Until this very moment he had never really considered the possibility before. He didn't regret saying it. And, he meant it. It was so clear to him. He had loved her for a very long time but had never allowed himself to admit it until now. Now that his life was almost over. The woman that he loved had just condemned him to death. SOON!!! But he didn't care. He was in love.

===========================================================================================

"Well,", Kerrie muttered to herself as she made her way to the kitchen, "THAT was certainly interesting!".

"What's interesting?", Tuna asked. Kerrie hadn't realized that her friend was within earshot.

"Oh, nothing, really. Just that strange old man who I was waiting on. I think he might be San Chan or something. He talks funny. Slow. Weird. He used to be a wagon driver but now he wants to live here of all places! Wanted to know if I knew of any good farms for sale. With chickens. And pigs. The price doesn't matter. He has plenty of gold.". Kerrie smiled and so did Tuna. Girls like gold. Especially working girls.

"Can I help?", Tuna whispered while looking around to see who might overhear.

"Help what?", Kerrie replied innocently.

"Getting the gold from the old geezer.", Tuna answered just as innocently.

Kerrie tried to look shocked but failed miserably. Tuna and she had worked together for many years and been friends for most of that time. Their only trouble had been the time that both of them were duped by the handsome stranger who played them like finely tuned fiddles. He had nearly caused the two of them to come to blows before they realized the game that he was playing and joined forces to teach him a lesson that he would never forget. They were a good team when they wanted to be. This might be one of those times.

"I don't know.", Kerrie answered. "He doesn't seem to be a bad fellow. I'm not sure that he really means to stay here. If he does, that might make it hard to get his gold without getting in trouble. It's not like he's just passing through and we can charge him extra for his meals. And I have the need for more than a couple of coins.". She tried really hard NOT to glance toward Boris. That cat wasn't totally out of the bag yet. "I don't know WHAT I'm going to do. If anything. Maybe nothing. I don't know.".

Tuna shrugged. "Let me know.". She turned back to the mug that she was polishing. Kerrie turned away and continued on toward the kitchen. It was almost time for her lunch break. Maybe a mid-day session with Boris wouldn't be such a bad idea after all.

I know.

It's only Wednesday.

I'm actually car shopping.

Just couldn't resist a few moments of self indulgence.

HI!!!

BYE!!!