Tav's Bastards

    "How do you feel?" The tall Aiel man asked of his companion standing next to him in the small room. The room was slate crafted of gray stone, each stone held together by an equally gray mortar that was, all in all, very depressing. The rest of the room was bare, save for a high window in the west wall, a bed and a chest that rested at the foot of the bed. The rest of the room was barren, and bleak and offered little in the way of comfort.
 "I feel... ." The other man began and than trailed off. His voice soft and thoughtful, his black eyes far away as he searched for the proper words that seemed to elude him. Beginning again he tired to seek the words that would answer his friends question.
 "I feel... free." He said finally, his voice still soft and eyes lost. "For the first time in a long time, I feel free." Turing to look at the tall Aiel, he noticed again the golden dragon and silver sword pinned to his collar as well as the color shifting cloak that hung at his back.
 "Good than Ivan I am happy for you." The Aiel answered him, a smile forced upon his lips. "I think we should be off my friend, for the other s are already assembled and waiting." He said, his tone cool and never changing save for a tightening around the eyes when he heard his friends reply.
 "In a minute Tor, I need to finish up here and I will meet you and the others at the practice yard as soon as I am able." Nodding, Tor pulled open the door and departed to where Ivan should have been going as well, to the practice yards. There upon the brown filed a small detachment of the Black Tower was gathering for a journey in search of a fabled item of power long thought lost.
 Ivan waited a few minutes before turning back to the open chest and looked down at it once more. Inside, resting on his spare clothes and he saw his color shifting cloak. It was his by right, he had completed the training, and gone through all the trails to attain it, but he no longer wished to have it. It felt wrong to wear it somehow. Perhaps another day, another time but not now.
 Letting out a small sigh, he bent down with one quick motion and closed the chest, and locked. Placing the small brass key in the pocket of his black coat, his eyes scanned the room once more, seeking anything that he might have missed. Seeing nothing out of place, he smoothed the black coat with the silver sword and golden dragon attached and left the only place in the world he called home.
 Walking through the busy corridors of the Asha man's abode his dark eyes scanned for trouble, while his hand never left the hilt of his saber. However upon this day he noticed nothing out of the ordinary as he reached the large double doors that lead to the practice yards. Striding through the open doors, Ivan felt the mid day heat wash over him, and was again thankful for the trick that kept the full heat of the day from reaching him. But even so, he felt a little warm underneath the wool of his Black jacket.
 Waiting a few second for his eyes to adjust to the bright light of the midday sun that bore down upon the world from its cloudless perch, Ivan let the sounds of the practice yard wash over him. The roar of the exploding stones, and the clack of the wooden practice swords beat out a rhythm to him that sounded of home.
 As his eyes adjusted he began to make his way past the classes of Soldiers and Dedicated as they toiled to become the living weapons that the Lord Dragon demanded of them all. This day however he other concerns than the teaching of the Soldiers and Dedicated to kill with either the power or steel. The big Kandorian strode across the practice yards to the meeting place and found the men he was to lead already assembled and waiting. Striding up to them he spoke to the small group in a deep voice that carried over the roar of the exploding stones and the clack of the wooden swords.
 "Greeting brothers," he began his voice deep a powerful, " some of you know me and some do not. I don't care. We are not hear to be friends, we are here to serve the Lord Dragon and do his bidding. Right now his bidding is that we go to tear and meet up with some of our other brothers and from that point search out for a fantastic treasure. Some of you may find me harsh and uncaring, and again I do not care. We are brothers you and I. Bound by far more than blood, we are bound by death. I accept you my, as do all the men around you, and no where in this world will you find that. We know you for who you are, a man who can touch the true source, and we do not cower. We accept you." Looking at all the men whom he was to lead, Ivan nodded to those who he knew and who knew him and wondered about the rest. "Now lets get this task done and afterward the first round is on me and maybe if your lucky Sen will set us up with a brothel. Rohan, you are the farthest along in your training. Step forward and create a gateway to Tear." Stepping out of the way he waited for him to create a portal to the far off city.
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Notes: Sorry it sucked, but it's been a while. :::Shakes off the rust:::
 
 Kano was walking in Caemlyn one day, when he heard a sharp whisper behind him coming from a dark alley way. As he turned, he saw two eyes and soon a body. He approached the person slowly, and realized it to be Tor, dressed in street vender garb, carrying a turtle in his hands.

"Tor," Kano asked surpised, "why are you carrying a turtle?"

"I found it in the city. I think it was lost."

Kano could barely hold in his laugh. "Well, Tor, did you hear we are to report to Tear as soon as possible, and meet in an inn called "The Stanky Ho". We need to hurry back to the BT to pack." Kano opened a portal to the BT, and transported them both there. As Kano stepped out from the portal and waved goodbye to Tor, carrying the  for now, he ran to his room, packed a small bag, dressed in vending garb and opened a portal to the badside of Tear. As he stepped out into a dark alleyway, he noticed the crowd seemed a litttle scared today. he quickly got into the mob of people and stepped into the flow of traffic. The city seemed dark today, for the cloud cover was low. He finally approached "The Stanky Ho" the sign was old and rotting, but you could make out a picture of an old lady, naked, over top of a obtuse man. Kano grinned to himself and steppin inside, and stepped over to the Innkeep. The room cost 15 gold and he was surprised to get Andoran change. He recieved his key and a free ale and stepped up the stairs to his room...

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Hope you all like it. :D

-nate

 As Rohan wove the threads that split the fabric of reality Xyranthes wandered into the yard, nose deep in a book.
"Ivan, it's fascinating to read the histories of the Sea Folk, so few know really why they wear those rings and chains. According to Uranin, they wear them for..." Looking up, the old Cairheinian noticed the battle group had already been assembled.
"Ahhh, Asha'man Xyranthes reporting as ordered!" The severity of the nobles stance was offset by the broad grin. Noticing the quizzical look on the other Asha'man Xyranthes quickly explained.
"The Lord Dragon feels that immediate study and warding of the item in question is of highest importance. I was ordered to assist in the study of the artifact, as soon as it is in our possession, of course."
Ivan waves the Cairheinian on through the gate, and soon the battle group stands on a lowly hillock near the coast. Gulls call softly in the distance and the roll of the sea fills the air. The brothers of the tower stand loosely at attention, many of them gazing off at the great mound that rises to the East.
"To those who have never seen a great city before Caemlyn, I present to you Tear, oldest city of our making." Muttering to himself, Xyranthes looks longingly at the mountainous city. " Now that the Lord Dragon rules this land, I wonder if I can finally enter into their strongholds cellars." Shaking his head, the Old Cairheinian limps along with the rest of the battle group, heading to Tear.
 

Xyranthes of house Demandredal.
<><

 Looking up at the tall Kandorian, Mingar felt that things were falling into place.  This was the first time in many years that he had fought for a cause rather than personal vengeance.  When his family was destroyed in the blight, Mingar though all was lost.  Indeed it was not.  He could help destroy the evil that killed his family, and so many other families would be saved.  It was his purpose in life to fight the Dark One.  He was a soldier who knew he would die.  He wanted to die avenged.  As soon as his war was over he wanted very much to be reunited with his family.  He had met a man in Shienar who had taken part in a war much like his.  Lan al Mandragoran, was a true warrior, and understood what Mingar was feeling.  Mingar had only talked with him over a cup of ale, but he had found out that other people ad been hurt, other people had felt the pain of knowing their families had died at Trolloc hands.  Looking up at the tall Kandorian, Mingar knew that this was a man who could lead men in battle, Mingar had confidence in this powerful Ashaman. Rohan was standing next to Mingar and when Rohan was called forth to open the gateway he glanced over at Mingar and smiled knowing it was his first mission.  Mumbling under his breath he said a chant he had llearned in the borderlands, he said this when ever he set out on a quest.
        Let the Light be with us
        Let the Dark One die.
        For I shall conquer
        and resume my life.
Stepping thorugh the gateway in Tear he wondered what he would see he had never been this far away from his homeland.  If the light was with him, there would be some of the Dark ONe's minions here.  He wanted to see Trolloc blood on his sword once more.
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There it is guys hope it is acceptable, i am at school so i had to keep looking over my shoulders for teachers.  See ya later.
Joe
A.K.A
Mingar Blightsbane

 Stevan was at the end of the line of the Asha'man, Soldiers and Dedicated entering the gateway to Tear. As he grew nearer, he heard Sen's sharp orders more clearly, "Come on get a move on! Don't go near the edge of the gateway!" Stevan smiled and remembered when he had been as incompetent as some of the Soldiers. Finally, he reached the gateway, and stepped through into Tear...
 
 Only small...but...

Steve
<><

 darien stepped through the gateway to tear, standing inside the gate. a rush of bodies pushing him towards the otherside. he frowned, all these people were way too close to him, he didnt like physical sensation. the rational part of him tried to tell him that they didnt mean to intrude on his little bubble, they just did. the irrational, and  more prominent part of him wanted to sceam and hide in fear. he listened to the rational part of himself, with very much restraint he finally made it on his way through to the other side. to tear.
 milling bodies everywhere. they were surrounding him, and the urge to scream again rose through him, he bit his lower lip in order not to do anything terribly stupid, he chewed on it unconciously; kneading the gums in between his teeth. he barely tasted the blood that came as a result. he glanced around at all the other people, a buzz around them. all of them talking and chatting.
 he stood and waited to see what would happen next.

((sorry, not the greatest....))
darien

 The vertical slash opened upon a deserted hill side a few miles from the great river city of Tear. In the distance one could make out from the vantage point the great harbor of the city, shipping bobbing in the surf. The town was something of a blur, save that you could tell that it was divided into two portions, separated by a wall of stone and a wall of wealth. Within the walled section near the heart of the great old city stood the large manors, with there red titled roofs and twisting towers. Outside the wall huddled a maze of building crisscrossed by streets that entwined the city. Above it all however towered the stone.
 The massive ancient citadel of Tear that had stood, some say since the breaking of the world. It was a massive construction, more akin to a mountain than a castle, and seeing it did not make it anymore real. It was simply beyond belief.
 It towers seemed to touch the sky it's self and the massive bulk of the thing seemed to weigh down the world, making the land sage around it, as if struggling to bear such a burden. It was here that the High Lords of Tear had ruled, it was here that the fabled sword known only as Callandor lay impeded into the very heart of the great castle, and it was here that the Dragons Banner flapped in the breeze.
 The hill that silver slash of light opened onto was barren by comparison. It was one of many such hills that dotted great rolling plains of Tear. It's crown was covered in a green grass that seemed to sway with the wind and for as far as one could see, the same green grass grew.
 Striding forth from the silvery slash of light came a man clad all in Black From head to foot, with a color shifting cloak upon his back. In another life he would have been known as an Aiel, for tall was he, and of red hair. In his hands he carried a black shafted spear of an unknown make that seemed more a part of him than his own arms.
 His eyes scanned to sea of grass for a long instant, before moving forward and allowing others to follow him. The others were dressed as he was save for two things, the color shifting cloak that seemed to obscure his outline, and the Golden Dragon and Silver Sword that were pinned at his collar. Some of the new comers had only the silver sword, others had both and a few had nothing at all pinned to their collars. The new comers to the hill departed as quickly as they came, making their way to the great city of Tear and whatever lay beyond. The silver slash of light vanished as quickly as it had appeared upon the hill, leaving only the waving green grass to mark the time of day.

 It was bloody hot. Ivan thought to himself as he and the rest of the men from the Black Tower made their way through the muddy city streets. Even with the aid of the power, it is still to bloody hot. Dodging out of the way of a noble man's carriage Ivan eyed the crowd around them for any signs of danger. It never hurt to be careful, the Blight had taught him that. The Blight was an unforgiving teacher but the lessons that it taught were never forgotten either.
 For the most part the crowd was ignoring the men dressed all in Black, for the most part. His black eyes had seen more than a few Merchants turn down an alleyway or a back street to avoid sharing the street with them. But still the common people pressed about them, each on his or her own errand, lost in their own little world, never known that men who could channel walked among them.
 Thinking once more of the oppressive heat that bore down form the mid day sun, he hoped that Sen had the ship ready. The less time in spent in Tear the better. Looking back over the crowd once more, Ivan stepped out of the way of a passing mounted courier upon some important errand for a noble no doubt, while still keeping his eyes on the crowd, the doorway, and roof tops.
 Walking down these muddy streets required no little talent, as he had discovered years ago. It was preferable to walk with the aid of wooden plat forms, but he had not thought to bring any and as such his boots were splattered with mud and Ivan had the feeling that it was going to be a long day.
 Looking back at the crowd he let his gaze include the men under his command that were making their way to the Inn were they were to meet Sen, when he noticed the blood. It was a small thing, but it was still something that could get a lot worse if left unattended.
 Moving slightly to his left, Ivan dodged out of the way of a passing person, and moved closer to the new solider known as Darien. He did not know the man, as he was new to the tower and Ivan had little contact with the soldiers save for teaching the use of the power or the sword. But still he was a brother and that made it Ivan's concern.
 "Are you okay?" Ivan called out once in his soft voice deep voice, and than when he saw he was not heard once more in a louder more commanding voice. Getting no response Ivan spun the solider around and saw that his chin was covered in blood and his eyes had a wild panicked look to them he had only seen in combat. Stopping in the middle of the street, he brought the young man to a halt, and began to think of his options.
 Behind him he heard a carriage skid to a halt and curse of the driver, and his command to get out of the way. Ivan ignored him and focussed upon the mattered at hand. If Darien was going insane it would be better to kill him now, before he had a chance to harm others. If it was something else than he would have to work it out.
 Again Ivan heard the command of the Driver, but continued to ignore him as he focussed his attention upon the welfare of Darien. He could sense the man was not gripping the source, nor had he done so in the time they had been together, and because of this Ivan did not think he was taint mad. Maybe it was Darien first time in a large city? Maybe it was something else, but it would require a quite moment to figure out what the problem was. The sooner they reach the damn inn the better.
 behind him he heard the driver conferring with someone in the carriage and heard the words, "Just do it. If the man wont move than... . " Turning around to see what the driver wanted Ivan caught the full impact of the Bull whip upon his chest.
 The wind knocked out him, his chest feeling as if was on fire, his hand reached for his saber as his eyes saw the guards behind the carriage who were even now coming forward to dispose of him. This was the way it was in Tear, the High Lords had all the rights and the common mans life was cheap by comparison. Even the acts of the Lord Dragon could only change so much. Seeing the driver pull the whip back once more Ivan unsheathed his saber and prepared for battle.
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Notes: It was an okay RP, but did not have any polish on it. BTW, who ever plays Sen's Character better get that ship. =Þ

    Mingar was behind was walking to the side of Ivan when something seemed to have stopped him.  Glancing around the Kandori's wide body Mingar saw that he was looking at a soldier with blood on his lips and a distant look on his face.  Turning around he saw that the other men from the Black tower were walking forward ahead of Ivan, the soldier and himself.  At about this time, Mingar noticed a carriage trying to pass the two men, it could not fit around them so it tried to shout at them to get out of the way.  Ivan was totally abosorbed by the soldier in his grip, and did not see the the whip descend upon his massive chest.  A lesser man would have fallen down in a senseless heap, but it only drove Ivan back a step.  Blood started to trickle down his coat out of the cut made by the leather whip.  Mingar saw Ivan draw his saber, and knew battle had come to him.  The guards started to come around the side of the carriage, to deal with these miscreants, little did they know what they were dealing with.  Drawing his sword from the scabbard on his back he launched forward to deal with the first couple of soldiers.
      "Do not use the power!!", whispered Ivan, "Do not kill just injure."
       Mingar was side by side with Ivan and the soldier with the mysterious injury was behind them crouching in a fetal position.  He lookied like he was dead already.  As the first soldiers met the wall of Mingar and Ivan, the two men of the Black Tower went into action.
       "FOR FAMILY", yelled Mingar.  His battlecry resounded through the street, and several soldiers of the BT turned around and went to help Mingar and Ivan.  Ivan parried the first stroke of the Tairen, and turnhis parry into a slash that cut the guards leg.  It was not a terrific blow but it disabled the man from further combat.  The man coming at Mingar tried to bull rush him, and was tripped as Mingar turned aside.  WIth a stunning blow to the head from Mingar's empty hand, the man was rendered unconcious.  There were two more guards left, each more wary than the first two.  They circled Ivan and Mingar, who were now back to back, and as if with a sudden signal they charged.  The man attacking Ivan tried for a cut along the big mans stomach, Ivan was to quick, he parried and with an expert flick of his wrists wrenched the sword away from the Tairen guard.  The guard after Mingar pulled a dagger from his belt, and Mingar followed suit.  Then they started to dance.  Dagger on sword, and sword on dagger, they were stepping to a tune on a razor's edge.   One wrong move would mean death.  Finally with a piece of luck, the guard slipped in the mud, and fell down.  Mingar took his sword and put it at the throat and told the man to drop his weapons.  The guard dropped his sword and dagger, and looked at Mingar with respect on his face, and daring him to do his worst.  To the Tairen mans astonishment Mingar sheathed his weapons and helped him up.
   "Next time can you be a little more patient?", asked a calm Mingar, "WHat harm would it have done?"
   The rest of the Bt soldiers came running up and circled the carriage and their leader.   What had seemed hours had only lasted a couple of minutes.   Mingar was totally exhausted and could not wait for a mug of some cool ale.  IT was too bloddy hot for a man to fight around here.
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There it is guys, i am feeling a little verbose today, anyways, i am sitting in study hall and in case you dont know high school sucks.
JOe
A.K.A
Mingar Blightsbane

 darien, was about the respond to the man talking so fervently to him, when he saw the whip strike him. he stumbled back, and battle ensued. darien winced at all the people, yet again. and it was over, just as quick as it had begun. people ,everywhere, around the wagon. he stared at it. he took in a deep breath, and wiped the sweat off his face, and looked somewhat suprised to see blood on his hand. he touched his chin....it was wet.
 'ahh...so that's where it came from.....is that why that man was talking to me? because of this?' he stared into space, trying to think, trying to ignore everyone there. he kept wiping his chin, and hoped to get the blood cleared away. he frowned.

darien
ergh....not sure what the hell to write...

      The two wagons flanked the campfire, the horses and tents on one side and the road on the other. They had put up early, covering distance slowly, as they were hardly a proficient caravan. Plus, Sen had alterier motives for wanting to spend the night out here as opposed to finishing the last hour of the journey to arrive in the town. He didn't have to wait long, as the pounding of hooves against the dry dirt foretold of visitors.
         The camp went quiet as the sentry let out a whistle to awaken the caravan from their blissful merriment. Sen set down the bottle of wine he was drinking from and walked away from the campfire and onto the road to observe their visitors. White cloaks and golden sunsets glistened against the real sunset that was fast fading into the western sky. "20... maybe 25..." said Rohan, standing to Sen's right, nudging his heron marked sword from view. Sephiroth smiled in anticipation of a quick skirmish, and motioned soldiers to take up positions on each side of the road in order to better ambush the Whitecloak party.
        "No..." said Sen, peering out into the quickly darkening trees, waiting for the fast approaching Whitecloaks to arrive. "We have plans... remember that."
        The Whitecloak fanned out to 5 abreast along the small dirt road and rode hard on seeing the small group of travelers waiting for them. "Ho fair guardians..." said Sen as they reined their horses in only a few feet away from him. Their captain nudged his horse forward in irritation, wanting nothing but the comfort of his bed back in the Whitecloak camp, and any delays would mean riding past dusk.
         "What is your cargo?"  said the Captain bluntly, eyeing the pair of wagons, and the dozen motley members of the caravan.
          "Ahh ... that you would have to see yourself," said Sen, smiling broadly, and rubbing his hands together. "Only the fines of wares from Tarabon! I rode the wind itself in bringing it here!"
         "Well... let's have a look then." said the Captain, dismounting and handing his reins to an underling. Sen dismissed Sephiroth with a wave of his hand, and walked swiftly towards his wagon with Rohan and the Captain in tow. Four other Whitecloaks dismounted and moved after their Captain, while the rest took up guard on the road.
          "So, how many Children of the Light would there be in the village up ahead? Only the finest soldiers are deserving of my goods! And I would be more than happy to provide what little I can for the battle against the Shadow." The Captain ignored Sen's idle flattery as Sen opened the door to his wagon then popped open the lid to one of the crates that filled all but the space to open the small wardrobe, and the bed.
         "Yes yes yes... the fines vintage if I do say so myself." said Sen, pulling an unopened bottle of Sea Folk wine from the case. He popped the cork and poured two glasses. Handing one to the Captain, he drank his own with a single gulp.
          The Captain eyed Sen's smiling face warily, then decided to test the wine, finding it to his liking, he downed the rest. "Not bad. Nothing like some decent wine for a parched throat," commented the Captain, deciding that Sen was harmless enough.
          "Yes, I do say so myself. I would sample some myself, but my wife would have my hide if there was even a copper piece not shown to her!" Sen eyed the bottle, testing it's wait and worth before smiling at the Captain. "As you said... I'm sure you've had a long day, as well as your men. Why don't you take this as a gesture of my appreciation for keeping our small roads safe of brigands?"
          The Captain nodded and took the bottle. "Well then, thank you for you gift, I'm sure my men will appreciate it."
          "Yes, of course. And if you'd like to tell the rest of your men that there is plenty more for sale tomorrow when we arrive in the village, I would be much obliged." Sen smiled broadly, liking that his hooks had already been sunk into the Whitecloaks, and within the week he would be quite appreciated.

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Oh yeah, I upgraded to AOL 4.0 also... it's kinda nice... more of a Win98 feel to it. But the main difference is spellcheck... : )
You'll notice half my writings without as many errors.

-Tav

 The Whitecloaks finished their conversation with Sen and came out of the wagon.  Rohan got another glimpse, (sp) which he really didn't want, of their men.  They wore the white cloaks, hence their name, which were quite dirty and their weapons were plainly visible.  Of course, a whitecloak was no match for a blademaster or even less a channeler.  Occasionally there was the whitecloak with a skilled hand, yet their numbers held them strong around Amadicia.
 Rohan watched suspiciously as the Whitecloak captain signaled for his group to leave.  Knowing about whitecloacks through books and occasionally sightings of them, they didn't just leave all the time, there was this nasty habit of coming back and proclaiming everyone to be a darkfriend.
 He noticed he was still holding a glass of Sen's drink.  He drank the rest and set the glass down on a crate.  Sen must have something to say after this, their first encounter with the whitecloaks.  He hurried back to the wagon and stepped inside...

****** *******

I don't use the spellchecker anymore, it got annoying after all those WOT terms...

Tom/Rohan

    The heat feels so good. Thought Sen with an audible sigh. He stood outside a slightly run down warehouse and just let the sun soak into his skin. It had been some time since he had been in his usual climate, which was noticeably different from that of the Black Tower. He had spent most of the past three years in the waste, and the rest of it on the paradise of Mayene. It was uncomfortable to wear anything more than a wisp of silk, and he was gald to return to his usual wardrobe.
     "High Lord Sen!" exclaimed a wiry man in his late twenties. Another Mayener, who seemed to have seen far more sun in the past few months than Sen had.
      "Biron!" exclaimed Sen with a smile. He let out a laugh and wrapped his arms around the man in a tight hug. "Long time no see my friend. Far too long." said Sen letting go of the man, who was starting to turn red. He had not seen Biron in almost 2 months, which was when Sen had started his journey to the Black Tower. He had thought that his bookkeeper murdered by Aes Sedai at the same time Sen had lost everything besides his life.
       "You do me honor my Lord. I'm glad you have finally come to Tear. I got your letter a week ago, and have already started to convince the High Lords to anex Extase's dock." Sen smiled, knowing that Biron would outwit Sen's feeble minded brother and hand Sen back his holdings that Extase had confenscated after thinking his brother's removal as a success. But, even Extase did not know Sen was perfectly healthy, and far more powerful than Extase had ever dreamed. It was only a matter of time before he returned to Mayenne to take care of business.
       "Well well, it does look like you are doing quite well here." Said Sen, commenting on the somewhat rickety, yet sizeable warehouse that Biron had come out of. "Well, time to get down to the reason I am here. Have you any contact with any of the Sea Folk ships? I need a ship, by morning."
        "Hmm... let me see. Come now, let's go inside for a glass of wine, and I will send a runner to see if any of the Sea Folk are willing to provide transport to...." Biron left his sentence open, wanting to know as much about the situation as possible, as to make the best of it, least he end up fleeing like a dog through the mountains once again. Sen winked at his bookkeeper and followed him into the warehouse.

       *              *             *             *             *

     The mud was being churned up and spewed all over the Tearan cityfolk's legs, most of whom were smart enough to wear their clogs. The bustle parted for the 4 barrel chested men who carried a large seat attached to two large poles. Sen sat comfortable next to Biron as the harbor came into view. The Stone of Tear lay to his back, an awesome sight which had left him breathless as a child sailing into the harbor, but now, it was nothing besides the might of the Black Tower. Not that the building itself was not a marvel of construction, unrivaled by anything in existence, but the Black Tower could reduce the Stone of Tear to a pile of rubble in minutes. That was something to be in awe about.
       The barers trudged along through the mud, the citizens making way, not wanting to be the center of some Lord's fury, so they arrived at the harbor in short order. Sen hopped off, landing lightly on the wooden dock, before the seat was lowered to the ground. In front of him lay a harbor full of Sea Folk ships. Dozens and dozens of them, their sails making the sea into a quilt of patches, and hundreds of bare chested Sea Folk moved on the ships and the docks they were attached to. Sen scanned the hull of the ship, spotting the name "Mermaid's Torch" painted on it. Things were going well. Now if they would just let over quickly, he had an appointment to keep.
      "Coming aboard!" yelled Sen to the few Sea Folk crewman who were peering down at the dark skinned landdweller who was waiting to be let aboard.
       "Why shouldn't we let you climb up?" laughed one of the women, a gruesome scar traced her neck and a chunk of her right breast seemed to be cut off. Sen wasn't unnerved by the nudity, far from it, he missed the scantly clad women of Mayenne, and the mud bathes of his country.
       "Because, I have a gift for the Wave Mistress." stated Sen, pulling a small box from somewhere in his flowing cloak. With a heave, he pitched it up onto the deck of the boat, some 20 yards above him. There was some movement as someone went to retrieve it, and a few minutes passed before a rope ladder was lowered, a sign that the Wave Mistress was appley satisfied with her gift.
       Sen came aboard easily, followed by a sweating Biron. A hardened sunbaked woman came forward, a slash of clock covering her chest, and a tight pair of pants clung to her body. "So, what is it that I can offer you?"
       "Some wine would be suitable repayment." said Sen. The Wavemistress' eyes narrowed, and she studied the smilling youth closely. She had at least a decade on Sen, and it definitely did not appear that Sen would need to give her lavish gifts in order to convince her to bed him, so out of curiosity she cocked her head towards her cabin, and led him and Biron to a small table inside.
        "So, I will ask once again. What is it that you wish of us?" asked the Wave Mistress, pouring a small amount of wine into three glasses, then giving one to each of her guests, she sat down with her own opposite the other two.
        Sen glanced down at her wrist, seeing a large golden bracelet framed with sapphires, his gift to her. "I request passage." said Sen bluntly.
       "I can easily arrange that. But, I'm sorry, the Mermaid must remain here. There are a dozen other Rakers that would be more than suitable."
       "No. I need the fastest ship. We have a mission, from the Coramoor." said Sen, trying to play off any sense of duty they may feel towards Rand. He had little experience with dealing with Sea Folk outside of the few that visited Mayenne and could be coaxed into transporting gold from one port to another, thus he was mistaken in what Rand meant to them.
       "We do not do charity work. As I stated, we must stay here." replied the Wave Mistress evenly.
       "It is unthinkable that 20 of the Dragon's men have to sit on the dock, because you deem their work unfit. The Dragon would be very displeased." Said Sen, putting an edge to his voice, displaying a slight bit of anger, but managing to slip in the fact that it was not just him that needed passage, and failing to mention a destination.
        "I... " started the Wavemistress, thinking as hard as she could. Sen leaned forward, pleading with his eyes. "Maybe I could manage to find someone who may be willing to take you." Sen inclined his head, and sat back in his chair.
        "That would be greatly appreciated. I hope I will be able to meet with 'them' sometime this afternoon?" asked Sen, having no intention of leaving the ship without getting a ship. She nodded, and departed the room, on her way to find Sen a ship. It is always better to let those who feel obliged, be obliged. Thought Sen, suprising a grin.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

-Tav

 Sitting at the table behind Ivan and Tor, Mingar sipped at his ale.  It was cheap and warm but anything was good that would take the cotton out of his mouth.  Wiping the sweat off of his forehead, Mingar glanced at the healed Ivan.  Even though he knew that he could channel it was still an awe inspiring thing to see wounds close and not leave a single scar.  Tor had healed Ivan of his injuries, and lead the group to this tavern.  Members of the Black Tower were scattered across the inn, talking about the fight, dicing, or just making rude comments to each other.  Mingar sat by himself, thinking about the fight.  It had been a long time since he had to fight humans.  He did not like the feeling of hurting a fellow man.  Trollocs, fades, he could deal with, but the red blood of another man made him queasy.  Finishing his ale he decided to sharpen his sword.  Unlike several of his companions his sword was not power wrought, and had sustained a couple of notches in its long blade.  He pulled it out of its scabbard, and layed it against his leg in a practiced manner.  Pulling his pumice stone out of a bag tied to his waist he ran it up and down the smooth blade.  After several minutes he stopped, and tested the sharpness with his finger.  Biting back an oath he stuck his finger in his mouth to stop the bleeding.  Mingar checked to see if anyone noticed his stupidity and was releived when he found no open laughter on the faces of his companion.   All of sudden Ivan stood up and announced it was time to move out.
__________________________________________________________________

There is just a little segment.  well gotta go talk to you guys later
Joe
A.K.A
Mingar Blightsbane

 Ivan stood at the edge of the practice yards, a tankard of ale untouched in his hands, his dark eyes lost in thought. He could hear the sounds of merry making coming from the buildings behind him as people sought each other for company and entertainment. On most normal nights he would be one of them, lost in his own world trying to gain a few laughs and make the night speed along, but not this night.
 It was not exactly cool this evening, but neither was it hot. It was that time of day when the sun had gone down, but the light had not faded from the world. Some said it was the time of the Day when death had it's strongest pull on the world. The time when the sun died and before the night was born.
 He stood there as the shadows crept across the world and the sun set in the West and thought of the past, and what might have been. He thought of the days of his life before the tower, of the times before he came here to be a weapon of the Dragon. His mind caressed over the images of his wife and family, and thought back to his times in the guild and what had eventually happened to them. He thought about the past, and the ghosts that would forever haunt his soul. filled his vision with the faces of the dead.
 His gaze swept over the empty yard even as his eyes found the black marble block at the far edge of it. In the gloom he could not make out the names carved upon it, but he knew they were there. Some were strangers to him, gone long before he ever came to the Tower and some were men that he had known, bled with, drank with and in the end he had killed. To many names, to many ghosts.
 This night was bad for him above all others. It was tonight that was the night of dead wife's birthday. A date that he had burned into his mind, swearing never to forget it when they were married, now doomed never to forget it no matter how hard he tried.
 It was a just a few years ago that he would pick the first flowers of spring for her hair, and take her to town to see a gleemen or whatever else caught her eye. It was this night not so long ago that meant so much to him, because it meant so much to her. It was this night that haunted him like no other, for it reminded him of her. The one perfect love of his life.
 Rising the frosty tankard of ale, he took a long sip trying the ease the dull pain in his heart of what he had lost. His mind drifting back to his marriage and his children. Beyond in the shadows he heard a soft clink of armor, and the rustle of cloth. Lowering the tankard from his mouth, he wiped it with the back of his free hand and called out in his deep rumbling voice, his tone low and even.
 "What do you want Legolas?" Ivan never turned around, only one man in the tower wore plate armor, and that was Legolas. The hand to Taim, M'Hael of the Black Tower, he was a soletary man who commanded respect but had few real friends. His eyes still lost in thought, Ivan never turned around as the man encased in Black Armor walked up.
 "Nice night Ivan." Legolas said, his tone even and cool. Legolas really did not have any friends, the man's personality just would not allow for it. Not looking over at him, Ivan spoke again, this time his tone blunt and uncaring.
 "Why is the Eye watching me?"
 "The eye watches everyone Ivan, you should no that by now." Ivan grunted but made no comment switching to another line of questioning.
 "What do you want Legolas?"
 "I have a bad one. Something that requires a touch if you know what I mean." Ivan turned and looked at the Legolas now, with the gathering of the shadows all he could make out was Legolas' outline a few feet away him.
 "What?" Ivan said softly, his mind going back to the black marble stone block with all the names. "Why don't you get one of the Eye to do it. This is their area." He said, his voice becoming a little more firmer.
 To the East a sliver of moon was rising making the shadows bathing the world in it's silvery light. On a night like this we should be dancing to the tune of the flute and harp. The thought sprung up at him unbidden, and with it the face of his wife. He could smell her scent, clean and pure and hear her laughter as she twirled in his arms. Looking down, and not seeing anything save for her face, he took a long drag of the ale and tried to wash away the ghosts of years past.
 "The Eye does not want it. So it's yours."
 "Why me. Why not Ken, or Dahl. I heard that Dack just got in why not send them?" He did not want to add another name to the marble block. Not another on a night like this when the ghosts where so strong. Not another one.
 "They are busy and you have the gift. That certain bit of magic that lets you come out alive when you should be dead. You have the touch."
 "Who is it?"
 "A member of the Eye. This one is sticky Ivan and calls for the best."
 "What do you mean."
 "Asha man Tye Norman went rouge on a patrol with his brothers from the Eye. All we know is that he seemed to fixated on the White Tower for some reason, our best bet is that he is headed there."
 "Why not let the Aes Sedai handle him?"
 "It's not the simple, we can't afford an embarrassment of this magnitude. We have been able to keep the taint madness pretty quite up till now, but if this blows... . "
 Ivan said nothing, letting the story was over him. It explained why the Eye had been watching him and what he had to do. It was a good story, one worthy of a gleemen's tale. With the thought of the gleemen his wife's face once more haunted his vision. Pushing her face out of his mind, he thought back to present.
 "When do I leave?"
 "Now. Your horse is stabled and ready to go. You have your sword, and I have placed a new pair of clothes, a less obvious pair of clothes, in your saddle bags. Norman has a three day head start, and he more than likely traveled to the city." Ivan said nothing as he absorbed all the information. Waiting to see if there was anymore, he gave Legolas his tankard of ale and walked off into the night before Legolas called out to him. "Don't fail Gregorian the M'Hael and the Lord Dragon are watching this one closely." Ivan never turned, just walked back through the Darkness with none but the dead to keep him company.
_________________________________________________________________
Notes: Okay Tav that's one. This is an RP string that is only supposed to be used by me, so nobody needs to reply. Anyway sorry if it sucked, I had a lot of other ideas, just did not have the time to put them in or fully flesh them out. Thanks for reading.

  Darian was sure that many of the inhabitants of the Black Tower were in Tear.  He couldn't be going crazy already.  Darian tried to redirect his mind away from the thought of insanity.  Of all things, that was the only thing he feared.  In reality, it was much more than fear.  It had gotten to a point that he had thought about suicide many times before instead of going completely insane.
     Darian had been to the majority of the inns over the day, and none had seen the people he was looking for.  He had searched nearly every inn in the city, with the exclusion of a square block he was currently in.  This was, of course with the help of some friends.  He walked up to another inn, and walked inside.  There, he saw Ivan, Tor, Xyanthres, and some other men he did not know.  They were just getting up and were about to leave.  Darian was very relieved that he was still rational.
     Darian walked up to Ivan, who had just turned around.
     Ivan began to speak.  "Hi Darian, glad you could make it.  I had heard you were supposed to show up, but I wasn't sure if you would be able to make it or not."
     "I was getting a little worried myself when I searched most of the city and didn't find you guys.  So, has anything new happened since the last time we talked?"
     "Yeah, you are supposed to be proven, but I'm not sure how easy that will be with this mission to accomplish.  Oh well, don't worry about it.  You will be proven soon enough."
     "Yeah, as long as I'm proven sometime, it doesn't bother me!  By the way, what is are mission?"
     As the group walked towards the docks, Ivan explained the mission to Darian  and anyone else that was within a distance that his words were audible.  When the group reached the docks, there was a great ship, one of a size Darian had only seen once before.  He knew this was the Seafolk ship Ivan had spoken of.

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

K, someone else can write now.

--The long lost Darian
Soon-to-be Dedicated

aka Michael in RL

 
Kano was tired. He had a long night last night. Partying with the ladies in the inn was work, although it was fun work. He looked outside. It looked to be about 10:00 AM. He sighed. It was a rainy cloudy day. What a day. He did not feel like going outside. But he had too. The Ship was to come at....9:00 and depart at...hmm, what was it? Oh Yes. Now he remembered. 10:30..10:30! He had to get moving. Kano leaped out of bed, almost hitting his head on the low ceiling. He would have to tell the innkeeper about that. But another time. Now it was time for Kano to get to the boat. He dressed quickly into a light black tunic and soft trousers that met high black cow leather boots at his calves. He stepped over to his closet to get his bag. Oh how he wished how he knew how to make stasis boxes. But that was for another time. He picked out a nice Black Cowhide Leather pack, perfect for this adventure. It was waterproof and should keep his things safe.

As he placed his shaving knife and his shaving lotion into his bathroom kit. he needed to take a shower, but that, like so many other things, was unfortunately for another time. He picked up his Ancient Aes Sedai Pendant, putting it around his neck where it had been for 15 years. He then tucked it under his tunic. As he filled his pack with clean clothes and boots, he realized he was forgetting something. What could it... AHA!!! That was it! He was forgetting food. He needed food. He quickly closed his pack after cramming his things in there, slung it over his back and ran out the door and down the stairs. He quickly paid the innkeep and kissed "the Stanky Ho" from which the inn got its name. He Then ranout the door.

As he approached his destination, the marketplace, he realized, he might not have enough money. He walked by stands with fruit and vegetables that were in horrible condition. The Light knew this Blight was killing everything. He finally a stand that had half decent fruits and vegetables.
"Ma'am?", Kano asked."Do ye happen to have a lot of this produce?"
"Aye, sir. How much do ye need?"
"25 Bushels of carrots, 20 of lettuce, 30 cucumbers, and 35 baskets of assorted vegetables. Also; 40 bushels of apples, Andoran if ye have them, 30 bushels of Tomatoes, and 45 bushels of assorted fruit. Do ye have any meat avaiable?"
The Lady did not talk for 1 minute. She was shocked anyone would want this much of her food. But she finally found the words.
"S-s-s-sir... wwwould you mind t-t-telling me what you plan to carry it with?"
He had not thought of this. he must think more next time.
"Yes.." Kano grabbed a cart that was behind him. "This."

Over the next 15 minutes she helped him load this small cart full of bushels of so many things. When they were done, the cart was like a teeter toter, barely able to stay balanced. Kano muttered and wove some air to keep it balananced and to keep it going at a decent pace. He paid the woman 500 andoran crowns and rushed with the cart down to the docks, and stopped dead at the sight. A huge square rigged ship with no oars was sitting at the dock. He had never seen anything like it before in his life. As his shock was overcome, he realized the Asha'man were aboard. He then pushed Super Cart over to the ramp that was slowly being... Light! They were leaving without him. He muttered and shoved the cart full speed at the boat weaving air to make it go faster. The cart was going full speed now, and all that food was heavy and increasing the speed...

BANG!!!! POW!!! SMASH!!!!!
The Cart collided with the ship. This was his goal. He rush to the ship, weaving air to stop the cart from crashing through the other side. He then quickly wove water, air, fire and earth all along the broken side of the boat, hoping to repair it before it sunk with all his friends. The boat seemed to be in good shape now, and the food was on board. he quickly ran up the gangplank and hopped onto the ship, helping them crank it up.
"Well, Tor, Xyranthes, everyone. Sorry I am late. I needed to get the food. How is everyone?"
All of them being a tad bit shaken by what just happened answered slowly.
"Umm, Good..."
"Fine..."
"Tired..."
Then Tor Spoke. "Light Kano!! What in the Lights name do you think you are doing?!?!?"
"I was getting the food. Anything else we need?"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, I hope you got this far. I haven't RPed in awhile so I am trying to get back in the habit. I hope ye like. :D

-nate

  when darien woke up and the first thought in his mind was 'i think i have a disease.' he frowned and wondered why he thought that. ahh..too  much ale too little time.he went through the standard morning prodedures and then wandered around trying to figure out where everyone went.  his mind thought back....he couldnt remember. he went to common room and saw some of the asha'man that he only knoew by appearance, and followed them. kinda trailing along behind like a puppy dog, simply because he wondered what kind of disease he happend to have.
 they reached the docks. and there was mindless chatter everywhere. there was aloud crash, and darien looked up with a start. he took a hold of saidin unconciously, and looked warily around. everyone seemed to be friendly with the guy. darien let go of saidin, grateful and reluctant at the same time. he went back to wonderingif it was a VD he could have possilby gotten from some whore that he didnt remember......

darien
that was really bad...sorry. but im still alive! if that counts.

  Waking up in the morning, Mingar got dressed and strapped on his sword, and placed his several knives around his body.  Walking out of the room, he noticed he was early since it was only about 7:00.  Going to the kitchen he broke his fast with a plate of bacon and ham.  With a wink at the serving lady, Mingar went and sat down to finish his breakfast.  Leaning back, against the wall, Mingar noticed that the dining room was not empty.  There was a woman sitting on the other side of the room, staring at him.  Remembering his Shienarian instincts he did not look her in the eyes because that would be rude.  Calmly eating his meal Mingar noticed that she was walking over at him.  He saw that she was wearing a forest green dress divided for riding.  She had a fair head of hair, and had glorious blue eyes.  As she pulled up a chair beside his, Mingar wondered what this woman wanted of him.  For the first few minutes she did not speak and just stared at Mingar.  Wondering what was wrong he asked if he could help her.
        "Actually, you can.  My name is Delenia, of House Carilinia.  It is a minor house of Andoran Royalty.  I am here in Tear on...business, and was wondering if you knew anything about the men staying in this inn with you?"
       Arching an eyebrow, Mingar said, "What do you mean, by the men staying in this in with me?  You sound as if i should be aware of a dangerous truth.  Should I?"
     Looking at Mingar with a confused look on her face she replied, "I do not know if you are serious or just playing with me(no pun intended).   There are men from the Black Tower here.  They can CHANNEL.  When i found out that they were here i rushed over to warn anyone i could.  You are the only one here that can not channel, so i thought i would warn you."
    A smile playing across his face Mingar said, "How do you know i can't channel.  What makes me different?"
    "Well you just look normal, you dont look like a monster!"
   Turning serious Mingar stood up and said," Madam, i am a part of the Black Tower, i serve the Dragon Reborn, and i too can channel!!"  After he said this Mingar did opened himself to the filth and gloriousness of saidin.  He channelled a small flame in his palm and held it out to the woman.  IT sputtered and died out several times but the effect was all that could be wished.  She jumped up, and sprinted out of the door.  That little flame was about all Mingar could do right now, he was still learning.  Sitting down he started to finish his breakfast.
    After breakfast he went into the stable and started to paractice the sword.  In the hot and damp weather of Tear this was no easy task.  After about an hour he called it quits and went up to his room to wash off.  When he came back down he found the rest of the BT assembled and ready to leave.  They left the inn, and walked to the docks.  The ship they headed for was huge dwarfing any vessel Mingar had ever seen.  It was absolutly beautiful.  The masts were standing straight, and yearning for the heavens.  This would surely be a wondrous voyage on such a fine and gorgeous ship.  When all were aboard there was a ruckus and a huge BOOM!!.   Mingar felt saidin in the air but tried to open himself to it but fund he couldnt.  Whisking out his sword he leaned over the side to see what had happned.  A man who he did not know had hit the side of the ship with the food for the voyage.  He was from the Bt and everyone laughed it off since the damage was repaired.  The ship left the dock, and the quest continued.  He never told anyone about the mysterious woman in the inn.
__________________________________________________________________
There it is boys and gal, hope you like it see yeah late HOMIE G'S
Joe
A.K.A
Mingar Blightsbane

  Tor had been securing rooms for the men in the Maule while Sen went looking for a ship, the place he had found wasn't too bad, at least the serving women were quite pretty and the ale was almost up to par, plus it was cheap and plentiful.  Yes, this would do nicely.  He left wanting to get back before Sen or Ivan found the case of oosquai he had stored on the wagons.  He found his brother's nursing scratches, and wanted to kick himself for obviously missing a fight.
 He seized the power, life and foulness filling him, he wanted to draw more despite the oily filth cascading through his soul. he wove fire, water, and spirit, healing Ivan's and the other's wounds, checking on everyone, he idly wondered where Xyranthes was, the great holding if he knew him.  He reported to Ivan after checking on his oosquai, and they settled into the inn.  And so he found himself drinking with Ivan at a table less than half an hour later, asking what had happened.

Tor the Shaido,
Yes I am alive,
and no writer,
Deal with it.

 "I Hate Mud!"  Muttered a disgruntled Xyranthes, picking himself out of the sticky ooze was hard enough, but these stupid clogs he had bought made it even more difficult. Fortunately Sen had booked passage on a sea folk vessel, the boy defiantly had a good head on his shoulders. A bit rough when it came to the Game, but a good head nonetheless.
Slowly Xyranthes made his way to the docks. There stood the ship, Sea Dancer, Xyranthes called up. A face appeared over the rail. "Who wishes to board the Sea Dancer?"
"I have little time for protocol, you will allow me, Xyranthes of the Black tower, immediate entrance to your vessel. If not, then I shall tell the Coramoor of your unwillingness to obey his orders."
A ladder was quickly tossed down, and Xyranthes climbed up. Steadying himself, the old Cairheinian nobleman began to make his way to the fore deck.
"Wave Mistress, I believe you have been asked to bear my Brothers and myself on a mission for the Coramoor. I am here to aid in the preparations."
The Wave Mistress turned, gold coins clinking on the thin gold chains that crosses half her face. Xyranthes personally thought such decorative jewelry disgusting, yet it was not his place to question, not yet anyway.
"You will come with Ashasha. She will guide you to the hold, where the rooms are being prepared. The Sea Dancer is now barren of our cargo, though you have paid well for his goods."
"Thank you, Wave mistress, You shall not be saddened by thy choice."
Xyranthes was lead down into the innards of the ship, there to see the newly installed beds and privacy chambers being built.
"Soon my brothers shall be here, all this must be finished before sunfall. I thank you for the effort you are making, but time is of the utmost. We shall sail at the first good tide. I will be ondeck, awaiting the imminent arrival of my brothers, if you need me." And with that Xyranthes turned and climbed up to the deck, there to greet the new arrivals. Sen was already climbing aboard, a silly drunken grin just fading now.

Xyranthes of house Demandredal.
<><

   Sen winced as the food cart hit the side of the ship. One glance over at the Captain and he felt his coffers open up and spill their contents. Next time I'll do it myself. Damn, he just couldn't find anyone else with any sense besides battle-sense, and that just rarely was enough.
     "Great... " said Sen, laughing at the irony. One moment he was fighting with the Wavemistress over 100 Andoran crowns for their fare, the next he had to pay out a thousand or so to cover damages. Well, it was all worth it, he didn't have much better to spend his money on. At least they would have decent food, and enough wine had been loaded on the ship for a year long party. Pulling a bottle from a box nearby, he sat down on one side of the deck, unbuttoned the front of his shirt and let himself feel the ship speed across the water.
     Topless Sea Folk ran across the deck adjusting ropes and moving the sails slightly to optomize their ship, oblivious to the Black Tower men who were generally being far too loud and who were going to make the most of the boat ride.

          *       *       *         *             *               *

      "Well Andy, how goes it?" asked Sen, coming up in a wisp of silk behind Andy.
       "Well enough, everyone is assigned a bed, and we got all your baggage stowed in your room... you may not have much room to move in there." replied Andy, noticing Sen wearing little besides a pair of thin silk pants and a wisp of a blue silk cloak that hovered behind him. He seemed to have made himself at home quickly enough.
       "Great. The wavemistress will dine with the Asha'man tonight, and we will discuss the exact location of the Island the Dragon told us of. We should assign a rotation on giving the ship extra wind, it would also help the Soldiers learn." commented Sen.
       "Already done." said Andy with a smile, nodding, Sen climbed back up the ladder lightly and went to go sit on the deck, where he wouldn't mind sleeping.

 Ivan searched the defiant faces of the prisoners one last time looking for something, anything that might give him a clue as to their purpose. He stood within one of lower rooms of the great Seafolk ship, the gently rocking motion of the room the only indication that he was onboard a sea going vessel.
 The room was small and cramped. The dark treated wood of the walls seemed to suck up the light, and the only illumination in the room, a lantern hanging from the ceiling in the middle of the room, cast deep shadows at the edges of the room and hid the unseen watchers. In the center of the cramped quarters, within the pool of light sat the prisoners. Each tied up with their hands behind their backs seated upon a chair. Each with a defiant look that seemed to speak of arrogance and defiance no matter what the situation.
 Ivan's dark gaze wondered briefly from face to face, as a thousand questions raced through his mind. Did they know where we were going? Is it part of some larger trap that is waiting for us at the island? Are they all Darkfriends as was their captain and part of some darker plot or was this just a chance meeting? Important questions with no answers, however his dark eyes got no answers from the sullen and defiant faces of the prisoners. Turning away from them, the black clad Asha man, battle group commander of the Dragon's Guard walked slowly over to other side of the room and disappeared in the shadows.
 Stopping by what he knew was the door he noticed a figure wrapped in the shadows, and nodded to him. Leaning over to him, he spoke softly so as the words would not carry beyond the shadows.
 "Do what you have to Xyranthes. I need answers." Seeing the other man nod in the darkness, Ivan's leaned back away from the man, and his hand closed on the door handle. Pausing for just a second before opening the door he spoke again in the same soft voice.
 "What you have to." Not seeing what the other man would do, Ivan pulled open the door and strode out in the still corridor closing the door behind him. leaning up gains the door he closed his eyes, and let the weariness wash over him.
 His sword hung at his side cleaned and well tended, but that was all that clean on him. The blood and bone of his foes were smattered all over him, and made his skin itch with the desire to rip off his clothes and bathe. Smoke filled his nose, and the strength seemed to be gone from his limbs. Sighing softly Ivan pushed himself away from the door, opened his eyes and looked at the corridor.
 Glancing up and down the wooden hallway he saw Tor crouched against one wall waiting for something. Nodding to his friend he walked away over to him as the tall red hair man stood up.
 "I see you Ivan." Began the Aiel in a cool calm voice that never showed any emotion. That was Tors way Ivan thought once again as he replied in his deep rumbling voice. Still walking down the corridor, he saw the Aiel man fall in beside him.
 "Hello Tor."
 "Ivan. I have the lists of those who are dead and wounded."
 "How many did we lose?"
 "Three soldiers and two dedicated fell. Another two will join them soon enough, as the healing will not be enough. The others should be fine."
 "Did we mange to recover the bodies of those who died?"
 "No."
 "Very well, set up a burial detail and inform the other's that it will be tomorrow at sunset."
 "Very good Ivan. I have also been thinking of setting up a training session or two for the Soldiers and Dedicated."
 "Do it. Focus the attention upon the individual needs of the men. Darien needs some work with a sword as well as the power while Minglar needs work in the power. From what I have seen each solider needs to work on something different. Lets see what we can do. I want you to assign Mendi to the sessions to practice linking with the men. Break the men up among the Asha men and lets see if we can get them in a little more comfortable with what they are."
 "As you command Ivan."
 "Also don't forget to add me to the rotation of teachers." Ivan said smiling at his friend.
 "As you wish Ivan." Said his friend softly. Stopping in his tracks, Ivan turned to his friend, his eyebrows raised.
 "What is this Tor, a sign of emotion?" The other man stopped with him and looked down the corridor and not at Ivan.
 "It's nothing. I should not have spoken."
 "What is it?" he had seen Tor face the horrors of the blight, the treachery of an Asha man and never did he flinch in either case. All the men of the Black Tower were brothers to each other. Linked by the taint, joined in a common cause to serve the Lord Dragon, every man who put on the black of the Tower was a brother. All men who served the Lord Dragon and put on the Black were his brother, but not all me in the tower did Ivan call fried. Tor was one such man that Ivan did call friend and he had never seen him in such a state.
 "It is .... . It's all the water." The Aiel said, his gray eyes widening, and his voice shaken. Staring at his friend for a second, and feeling the ship rock underneath him he wondered how he could put his friend as ease. His mind numbed by exhaustion from the battle, words failed him that night as he searched for words to put his friends worries to rest. in the end he resorted to a passage from a book that he seemed to read an eternity ago.
 "From the dawn of time have the fish conspired to have dominion over all the lands of earth. In the distant future their plans shall come into being and the sea's shall swallow the land whole and the fish will rule the world. Their domain shall be complete, and yet they will than dream of the land."'
 "Van Roth?" Tor asked his tone questioning.
 "Yes, it speaks of finally getting what you want and realizing that it is not enough. Enjoy what is there Tor, for it is and not what it is not what you want it to be."  Clapping his friend on the shoulder Ivan left the man standing their as he walked down the corridor in the direction of the ladder that would take him to the deck.
 After a time walking through the large ship, Ivan finally walked onto the deck of the Sea Folk ship and felt the sea breeze on his face. Walking slowly over to the railing of the ship he looked out across the night shrouded sea. The breeze brought with it the sharp tang of the sea, and seemed to bring a respite from the pressures of command. Standing there, looking out across and ocean only lit by the stars he tried to forgot about the blood and death that seemed to fill his life. After a few minutes a light touch on his shoulder alerted him to the fact that he was not alone.
 The sweet scent of perfume, the smell of roses on a hot summers day, drifted to him and he knew the Windfinder had returned.
 "Are you ready to finish what we began?" She said in beautifully musical accent. Thinking about his response he still kept his back to her when he responded.
 "Windfinder, I am an island in a sea of death and soon I shall be no more. " Turning to her and away from the sea, he could only make out the shape her head in the dim light but it was enough. "I have killed this night. I am tired, hungry, covered in blood and smoke and for a little bit I just want to not think about what is going to happen tomorrow." He did not know how this would go over with her, at this point he did not care. He spoke the truth and hoped she understood. After a long pause she finally spoke to him in the same accent.
 "Than why worry about what will happen Asha man. If tonight is your last night than enjoy it. You are tired and covered in blood, let me help you rest. let me bathe you. You are hungry, let me feed you. Let me help you forget that you are an Asha man, and let me tend to the man."
 "Why?" He demanded, his deep voice gruff and menacing. "The world hates me, and reviles me. Why do you show me compassion?"
 She said nothing as she moved to the railing beside him. He waited for a long moment before she spoke in a soft voice that he almost had to strain to hear.
 "Maybe that is why I wish to be with you. Maybe the fact that the world hates you, while you are trying to save it is what I find noble. In the end, you will be with the Coramoor when he confronts the Dark One. When the Trollocs pour over the land and come against you, your blood Asha man will drench the cursed slopes of Shayol Ghul. You fight for all of us, and maybe I wish to say thankyou. I will not be there, nor any of my kin. Other than that I do not know why I am here Asha man." She said nothing more and Ivan did not know how to respond, so they just ended up looking across the endless waves of the sea until the gateway opened.
 The silvery slash of light appeared on the quarter deck of the ship, the small portion that they had reserved for making gateways. The thin silver line expanded in the night to create a portal to another place where the sun was just rising. As Ivan watched he saw a black clad man that he knew stride through with several women after him following after him that he did not know. Calling out in his deep voice deep voice to the new comer, he greeted his friend.
 "So they sent you Cyrus!" Ivan said a grin splitting his face. Cyrus was another one that Ivan called friend. "I heard you were up along the blight. What happened you kill all the Trollocs?"
 "No." Called out the man walking over to him, the women trailing after. "All the Trollocs were already dead after laughing at your last attempt to enter the blight. " Said the man as he walked up clasping Ivan's hand. "Congratulations upon your rasing Battle Group Commander. So where do you go from here?" Releasing Cyrus's hand, Ivan barked out a quick laugh.
 "Wherever the Dragon command's me. With luck Illian to fight Sammael with him. Without it he may assign me as guardian to him. Exciting job." Ivan said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.
 "Well, you won't have to worry about forsaken here. I have brought Myke Sedai and Ilya Sedai." Ivan glanced at both of the women. He did not know either and hoped they would prove the equal of Mendi both in power and in heart.
 "Good Cyrus. You will need to find Tor, he will arrange quarters for both you and the women. Also Tell Tor to get them involved with the training. Now if you don't mind I need a meal, a bath, and some rest."
 Seeing Cyrus salute and walk off the Aes Sedai trailing behind him Ivan waited until they were gone. Pulling himself away from the railing and the sea, he turned and walked a few steps before looking back at the Windfinder and said in his deep voice. "Coming?" Watching her move toward him he wondered what Xyranthes would find out, how training Tor would turn out, and just who the new Aes Sedai were. Pushing the thoughts out of his mind he focused on moment and enjoyed the company of the Windfinder.
__________________________________________________________________
Note: Sorry if it is a little bit rough, but it took me long enough as is. Also welcome to the newest memeber! ;-) Also I wanted to end some of the ideas and bring in some new ones. So tell us what you find Xyranthes, how the training goes for the rest of you. I will move the group to the island and hopefully the end of the RP soon. More killing!!!!!!!!!! =Þ Also Vyrus is getting a new Screen name, so keep sending stuff to his old one tell he brings us up to date.

   Mingar woke up from a deep slumber, and found light peering in on him from a portal in the side of the ship.  He got out of bed and stretched.  Looking down, Mingar noticed he had a new scar traced across his ribs.  He guessed it had not been healed quick enough.  Oh well, at least he was alive.  He started to get dressed.  He left his sword and one remaining knife on his pallet.  He would not need those now.  After he finished getting dressed, he noticed a ravenous hunger eating inside of him.  He looked around for anything to eat, and found a plate of food on the nightstand.  Mingar wolfed it down with hardly a conscious effort.  He walked out of the room feeling very content, but still a little tired.  As he walked he nodded to the other members of the BT, said good morning, and asked how they felt.  Mingar saw a tall aeilman walking towards him down the corridor.  It was Ashaman Tor.  Raising hand to heart, Mingar saluted Tor.  "How are you today Ashaman?"
     "Just fine, soldier.  I was looking for you.  Ivan asked me to teach some of the soldiers and dedicated to get a little better with the power and their weapons.
    "Thank you Ashaman.  What must i do?"asked Mingar.
    "You must first find Darien and go up to the first deck, where i will be waiting.  Bring you sword, and tell Darien to bring whatever weapon he favors.  Do not keep me waiting."
   Mingar went on to find Darien.  He found Darien in his room, eating.
    "How fare you Darien?  I hope you were not injured in the fight?"
    "Not to bad, a few cuts and scratches, but with the love of the Light i will survive." muttered Darien with a smile."No healing for me, i was not injured bad enough.  So i got try my hand at becoming a pin cushion.  I think after Tarmon Gaidon it might be my new occupation."
   Mingar smile, "Very funny, Tor wants us up on the first deck to train with saidin and swords.  So hurry up
 and finish your meal."
   "I'm done.  I would not want to keep Ashaman Tor waiting." said a sarcastic Darien.
As they walked up stairs they talked about the battle the day before.  It had been their first confrontation with the Seanchan.   Both of the soldiers agreed that they did not like these foreigners very much.  When they got up to the first deck they say Tor sitting on the deck.  He looked like a snake waiting to strike.  It was nothing unusual for an aielman.  As they sat down next to him, Tor started them on exercises that would help them with the Power.  He had them grasp, and let go until they could do it ten times straight.  Mingar had trouble with this.  He could not grasp the source.  Darien did better and only failed one time.  Finally after a long moment, Mingar embraced saidin, and let it go.  He tried to embrace it again, and failed.  This went on for about half an hour.  Finally Mingar was able to grasp the source ten times in a row.  then Tor had them try to weave  flows of Earth and Fire.  He would throw up a peice of wood or trash over the side of the ship, and one of the soldiers would have to destroy it.  Mingar nailed his 3 out of 5 times, and Darien got 4 out of 5.  Tor said that was enough for training with saidin.
   "I see you brought your swords. " muttered a disgruntled Tor," That is fine but practice with yourselfs i will not touch one."  As this was said Ivan walked up from the lower decks carrying his sword.  He had a "rosy glow" around him that spoke of an interesting night.
   "I will teach them the sword Tor, go get some rest, you need it my friend." Tor wished the soldiers good luck with their training and went down the stairs to the ships galley.  Ivan started to teach them the forms.  Mingar knew many, and was a bit more proficient than Darien.  Finally, Ivan handed out two bundled lathes to the soldiers and bade them spar.
   "Lets see some action.  Remember your forms Darien, and try not to hurt Mingar." said Ivan with a smile.
  "I'll try, but i dont think i will be able to restrain myself." said Darien with a wink at Mingar."
   Mingar smiled a little and then lauched at Darien.  Darien brought up his lathe just in time to delfect a hit on his chest.  Mingar began to attack Darien.  He was tired from the night before but healing had refreshed him greatly.  Mingar went hi with a strike, and Darien landed a hit on his middle.  Keeping his feet, Mingar regained his breath and went at the other soldier.  Swinging hi again, this time on purpose, Mingar ducked low and swept Dariens legs out from under him.  Darien fell to the deck but maintained a hold on his sword.  Mingar stepped on his sword hand and pointed the lathe at dariens unprotected throat.
  "Nice job, boys." said Ivan, He was clapping.  And Mingar noticed that the two soldiers had acquired a little bit of a audience.  THey dispersed and went along their duties while Mingar helped darien up. They both glanced at the Ashaman and thanked him for the teaching.   Ivan looked at both of them and then walked down stairs.
  "That was a nice hit you laid on me.  You would have cut me in half with a real blade." said Mingar.
   "yeah, well i need to work on my sword work and you need some definite work on saidin.  SO were about even." said a smiling Darien." I think it is time for lunch.  I'm goin now, do you wanna come with?"
  "Sure i am starving, and i hear Sea Folk food is very good."
__________________________________________________________________
Sorry for the length but i was feeling like a writer today.
Joe
NO MORE ONE LINERS :P

 The screaming stopped, the two soldiers who had been assigned guard duty glanced at one another.
"What do you think happened?" The older of the two asked. Just then the door slowly opened, and a haggard Xyranthes slunk out, exhaustion marred his face. Rubbing his eyes, the old Cairheinian turned, and closed the door.
"No one is ever to enter this room, save myself. If anyone tries, they are to be stopped at all costs. I repeat, no one is ever to enter this room, only I. Is that understood?" The haggard voice did not sound quite like the usual crisp voice of the nobleman, but the commanding tone was there. The guards nodded, and stood a bit straighter.
Xyranthes slumped against the wall a few yards around the corner. Placing his hands over his eyes, the old nobleman muttered.
"Blessed creator, is it worth it? Can I go through with this?" Rising to his feet, Xyranthes headed for the kitchen. Grabbing the largest wineskin possible, he made his way to the deck.
Standing near the rail was Tor.
"Any luck with the prisoner?", the tall Aeilman replied.
"None, though I feel she's finally starting to crack."  The old man said, "Drink?"
"Of course," said Tor.
"You know, I wonder why we do the things we do, it doesn't seem fair. We are born, and then all through life we are placed in situations where we must make a choice, to do good or evil. Yet even when we choose good, the means we must undertake are evil. Will the ends allways justify the means? Ahh, bloody wine, I never could take the stuff ... take it my friend, before it takes me again. I need to sleep. May I not dream tonight, for fear of what dreams may come."
Slowly the old Cairheinian turned, and stumbled down into the sleeping quarters.
All through the night, cries and the sounds of crashing of books could be heard.
*********************************************************************
"Guards, I am not to be disturbed, no one is allowed admittance." The command brought both guards into renewed awareness. Since they had taken over the watch, Herbert and Nigel had been nearly napping. It must be close to 3 in the morning. Yet here stood an Asha'man, Already halfway through the door.
"Sir, no one is allowed entrance," one of the soldiers began, when his throat suddenly constricted.
"I know, I gave those orders, and now you shall obey the new orders I have issued. No one is allowed admittance. Asha'man Ivan is to be informed on whatever information I give you to convey. That is all. You have your orders." And the weave of air was dropped.
No sounds came from the room for the next three hours.

Xyranthes of house Demandredal
<><

 Slowly, Mendi opened her eyes.  She was staring at the wooden ceiling.  She recognized the rolling that spoke of the ocean... that could only mean she was on a ship.  Suddenly, she remember everything.  And she saw sunlight streaming through her window, which meant she had overslept.  With a muttered curse, she sprang out of bed.  The shift was damp with sweat, and she realized she must have had nightmares, and that in itself was odd, that she couldn't remember them.  She had trained herself to remember her dreams.
 She took off the shift and was digging through a trunk for a clean one, when a Soldier barged in.  "Mendi Sedai, you are..."  the boy trailed off and blushed crimson as she stood up.  "Did no one ever teach you to knock?" she asked quietly.  He tried to stammer a reply, then gave up and stumbled out.  She rolled her eyes.
 After she dresses, in a suitibly modest dress, she set out to find Darien.  She seemed to remember being told to teach him to link.  She found him in the ((place where seafolk eat.  I dunno.. woudl that be a

  Sen's head shot up abruptly as he felt a gateway open close by. Cyrus hopped through it to his relief, and he looked around, embarrassed that he had fallen asleep so easily. That was definitely a dangerous move though, opening a gateway on a moving ship, and especially an unfamiliar ship. Sen would definitely have liked to know how long he'd spent trying to get to the right place.
        Sen rose to his feet, feeling a lot more rested, and then glanced around to take account of the goings on. A few of the Soldiers were celebrating their first victory, or drinking away memories that no man should have to have, and the Asha'man were greeting their old friend Cyrus. Personally, Sen had never even talked to the man, but Ivan and Xyranthes knew the man, so he let it go. His eyes were held by the commliest female on the ship, standing next to their Commander, which made his eyes widen slightly. He smiled at her, finding it unusual to not have a woman himself, but then his smile widened as it occured to him that she was probably as old as his mother. (Not a knock on Andy, hehe... Sen's barely 19).
       He hopped onto the railing, he sat there precariously, feeling the warm wind pass over his bare back, and pull at his thin silk pants. Sen opened the ledger that he had been reading before he fell asleep, and channeled a small mot of light over the book in order to study the numbers. Well.... thought Sen, skimming over the latest assessment on the Black Tower's loss from transporting goods because of his absence. It was more he made running his family's business for a year. It seemed somewhat ridiculas, but it was all too true. Using gateways, he could instantaneously move shiploads of cargo from one city to another, reaping the profits for the Black Tower. In one day a band of soldiers with a few dedicated could do the work of a months movement of a shipping fleet.
         Slowly the Black Tower's group went below deck, where the rest of the crew was, the few females on board were, and where all the bottles of Ale and food they could possibly consume awaited them. It left a sole Dedicated channeling air into the sails, and a few Sea Folk who were in charge of keeping watch and making sure their sail through the night went well. Putting his book asside, he stood up in the center of the deck. He had to make sure he was properly exercised, least he not be ready for the next day's events.
         Taking deep breath, he stretched out his arms slowly, then circled them back inward to the center of his body. He closed his eyes and took another deep breath. Slidding into a wider stance, he turned his body 90 degrees and put his palms together as a blade and circled his arms around the left side of his body. He dropped down into a squat, placing all of his wait on the ball of his right foot, and raised his left leg off the ground. He slowly spun in a circle, his body taunt in order to maintain his balance and make sure his form was perfect, he then placed both hands on the ground and raised into a handstand. Maintaining his balance, he lowered one leg onto the ground and did a backward flip, coming out of it awekwardly.
      "OUCH!" gasped Sen, rubbing at a cramp that started up on his right side, the exact place he had been awarder a brutal slash from a Seanchan warrior. He massaged his ribs for a moment before attempting to continue his form, flowing through his endless array of motions with grace and practice. It was almost an art, and he had mastered it. As he finished his second round of forms, he noticed a Sea Folk man standing and watching him carefully.
      "I don't know what you would possibly want to waste your time practicing that fairy nonsense for. You can channel, and I know what  you can do. Why bother?" said the man, as Sen opened his eyes and exhaled loudly signalling the end of his form.
      "Because, I've never seen a woman swoon over me because I can blow up 10 trollocs. I'm small, slim, and can barely swing a sword let alone fight with one. So, I practice the Aiel art of closed fists. You'd be suprised how fast a woman's corset can come off when you can do a backflip."
        Laughing horasly the man shook his head at the boy, then wandered back to where the Asha'man were providing the crew with enough wine to drown even Dack. Sen picked up his book, and tossed his wisp of a cloak over his shoulder and followed him down, ready to prove to himself right. If Ivan can have a windfinder... just think of who I'll wake up next to tommorow...

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Man that was bad... : )
Sen's just too hard to write combat for. Noone would know what I'm talking about if I started giving you martial arts terms, so I leave it up to your imagination. But everyone knows what a black belt form looks like? You know, with lots of breathing, slow movements? Well, add a few flips, handstands and other acrobatic stuff, and you have Sen's forms....

-Tav

 Kano sat on the deck of the Sea Folk ship. All the other Asha'man were below, save a Dedicated channeling air for the sails. It was a crystal clear night, for the moon reflected on the sea, like a mirror would reflect any image. It was so beautiful. Kano wished he had grown up by the sea. Alas, he hadn't. He had grown in the cities of Arafel. A place, so far, far away. As Kano looked out onto the water, and like a mirror, it reflected his life back to him. Being born into a ruling house, living a childhood that was normal, but boring, and then joining the Black Tower, the Tower that had made his dream come true. A dream to build the most beautiful things in the whole world.

He loved to Build, especially with the one power. It made him feel a feeling of peace, and calm, although the Taint worked its toll on his body. He breathed in the fresh salt air, air that smelled of things so far, far, away. He slowly wove weaves of air, under him, as a platform for his "skimming" of the sea. He had to find a home in life, maybe it was the sea. He had to admit, it was pretty appealing. More appealing then burping and drinking with the Asha'man, but he enjoyed that too, no matter how vulgar it could get.

Kano looked back at the ship, sitting lonely in the water, like an Asha'man in an Aes Sedai camp. He grinned to himself. Using the power made one horny. No wonder Ivan was so desperate. He chuckled. What a bunch they were. From all ends of the world they had come, prepared to give there life in order to serve the Dragon. He was proud of that. Giving your life to help someone else, that is what it counted for in life. He smiled. Life. What a hard word. He grinned and went back to the Sea Folk Raker. Kano noticed a young very pretty Sea Folk woman, with round plump bosoms, and pants that went tightly over her buttox, bringing out its nice feature. She was smiling at him. Casually he approached her.
"Hello, My name is Kano."
"Hi, I am Meghania."
"Pleasure to meet you. I couldn't help but notice you looking at me in an odd way."
"What do you mean by odd?"
"Well, ... you seemed to be trying to hook me, and you did."
She grinned. "Come downstairs into my cabin and I will show you." She chuckled light heartily, and Kano couldn't help but grin.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She lead him into a dark, small cabin, towards the bow of the boat. It consisted of one bunk, and a closet, and a table. She then shut the door, lighting a candle, and setting it on the table, for tonight was a calm night on the water. The moon flickered in the window. Meghania was one of the rare Sea Folk women on this ship who wore a shirt. She grinned at him, and let down her black, silky like hair. She then undid the buttons on the front of her silk blouse, sticking her chest out, so as to have her bosoms almost "break" through her shirt. he smiled and approached her, helping her with her shirt off. She then proceeded to strip down to her birthday suite. He blushed as she helped him undress down to his birthday suite. She smiled an impish smile and crawled into the bunk. Kano crawled in after her, for one of the wildest ride of his life....

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kano was tired. That was hard work. He smiled at Meghania. She was so beautiful. He stroked her hair, and followed one long strang all the way down her face. She was beautiful. He smiled, and sat up. Hurriedly dressing and giving her one last kiss, he darted out of the room, clothes on, and up to the deck....

When he got there, Tor was giving a lecture. "Alright, today will be spent in learning. None of us is excellent in sword and saidin. Today we will work till we drop. And when we drop, the ones best in healing will heal us. It should be fun. I have broken you up into groups. I want Ivan to train Kano in the use of destroying. Kano, you are an excellent builder, but you lack the skills neccessary in destroying. You two will spar on the lookout." Tor grinned a quick ale grin, then pointed up to the lookout on the main mast. Kano groaned and ivan just shrugged. This should work wonders on his stomach. "I want each of you to pair up how you want to, the only reason Ivan and Kano are together is because Kano needs the wotk badly." Kano could not help feeling a tad bit embarassed. But he also felt proud that he got to spar on the lookout tower. Working to till you dropped would be fatal in this instance, but oh well. He grinned and started the climb up the ropes. The ropes of his destiny...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hope you all like. I tried to make opening for everyone, including Mendi who was dressing as a Sea Folk woman just for me. :D

-Nate

  darien glanced up at the blonde aes sedai. he felt thouroughly confused as she introduced herself. his dark eyes were kept shadowed though, and he  studied her.she seemed nice enough. he said cautiously to her, "and what would that lesson be?"
 he didnt mean to sound so rude and arrogant,  but he wasnt going to be jerked around by people he didnt know. he had kept to himslef most of the trip because he didnt like being aroung so many people in such a cramped space. and now someone was talking to him? he didnt mind the occasionnal off hand comment from the soldiers and asha'man,  but for once someone seemed intent on getting to know him. he kept his guards up. he knew about people, to an extent. especially women. even worse, aes sedai, dragon sworn or not. he simply stared at the blonde and waited to see what she could teach him.
 
darien
dashing young man
hee hee!

 Mingar looked up at Mendi Sedai as she talked to Darien.  Darien had not been very forthcoming with talk during lunch.  Mingar could understand this, he had his ghosts too.  When Mendi walked into the GALLEY Mingar's breath caught in his throat.  She looked absolutely stunning today.  Her blond hair shimmered and hand a lively bounce to it.  Her dress was cut low enough to show cleavage but that was all that could be seen.  It was a forest green in color and was split down the middle as for riding a horse.  She had an air of confidence, and a brisk manner.  Mingar looked up and tried to meet her eye but she had all of her attention on Darien.  Mingar noticed the way the man spoke to her, so he nudged him in the ribs.  Darien looked over at Mingar, smiled and spoke to Mendi Sedai, "I apologize Aes Sedai, what do you need me for.  I am forever at your service."
   Mendi saw the nudge by Mingar and glanced in his direction.  Their eyes met and they shared a mutual smile.  She turned away and asked Darien if he would come up to the top deck so he could teach him how to link.
    "Sure  Aes Sedai, Mingar i will see you later.  Maybe you could help me with my sword work?"
    "Yes, i'll help you out, but be careful shes Aes Sedai" Mingar said with a wink, "May the Mothers Embrace welcome you."  Darien walked away with Mendi laughing.
    Mingar turned back towards his lunch and started to finish it, when he heard a loud screaming.  It was coming from the upper deck.  Mingar was alarmed, but Ivan, who was at the next table, was laughing.
    "whats so funny Ivan?" asked Mingar.  The screams suddenly reached a peak and then stopped.
    "Nothin, thats just Kano when he gets excited.  Dont worry about it." Mingar didnt.  What a strange, strange man.  Mingar finished his meal and walked up to his room.  He looked at his sword, it had several notches in it.  He started to sharpen it and smooth away the notches.  It would take a couple of hours.  One attribute that Mingar had was that he could wait.  Yes, he could wait a long time.  At this moment he was waiting.  Waiting for the revenge that would come, when he could kill shadow spawn
__________________________________________________________________

GOTCHA KANO!!!!!
Joe
"Yes, i am a smart ass"

 Mendi was surprised that he hadn't been informed.  "Linking, of course!  I have to help inexperienced soldiers and dedicateds... and even Asha'man... learn to link.  And from what I hear, most if not all of you don't have much experience."
 Darien was getting a look from someone sitting next to him.  A man's voice drifted over to her, "Yes, i'll help you out, but be careful shes Aes Sedai" the man said, "May the Mothers Embrace welcome you."  Darien walked away with Mendi laughing.  Men were odd.

Mendi
Darien, wanna take it from here?

 Tor stood at the bow of the heaving deck, thinking to himself as another day
dawned on the heaving ship.  It had been three days since
Xyranthes and the Seanchan noblewoman had been locked away together and the
screams had finally stopped three hours ago. As the sun came up, the other
Asha'man joined him at the bow, Sen, Xyranthes, Cyrus, Taurs and their leader
Ivan.

"Well, she's finally began to talk, and from what she says it doesn't paint a
pretty picture of what's in store for us on that island.", said Sen.

Ivan and Sen had been closeted in the small room with Xyranthes since the
prisoner had finally cracked.  What they said was grim, the Seanchan had
fortified the island they were heading too, making it an advance sea fortress
for the Corenne. Details were sketchy, but apparrently it had been some time
since the forces were heard from.  They didn't know whether it was good news
or bad.  An entire legion of the invaders from across the Aryth had been
positioned there.  The prisoner was troubled by the lack of communication.

They were heading back to further interrogate her about precise defenses, and
they wanted Tor and Cyrus to keep the Soldiers and Dedicated on their toes.

Suddenly a cry rang out from the crow's nest.  "Sail ahoy!"
"Seanchan?", the Sailmistress called.
"No," came the answer.  "He is one of ours Sailmistress.  He looks to have
seen better days."

"Tor", Ivan said, "We're going below, stay here and find out what you can from
the crew of that ship.

"As you wish, Ivan Gregoraian.", the Shaido Warrior replied.....

--------------------------------------------------------

He hurried down to the cabin, and knocked hurriedly on the door, the two
dedicated on guard eyeing him quizzically.  Sen opened the door.  "What is
it?", he asked.

Ivan joined him, "You could have waited until we were done Tor," said Ivan,
ahint of anger at being disturbed in his voice,"What did the crew say."

"You had better come see for yourself Ivan Gregorian. There is no one living
on the ship......"

Tor the Shaido,
trying to move the RP along

  darien , the strikingly handsome young soldier ((heh heh)),  rolled his eyes at mingar. mendi's laugh broke through his thoughts, and he glanced at her too. his eyebrows rose under his shaggy bangs and smirk curved on his lips, "linking,eh? why am i being taught alone? wouldnt it be a little beneficial if there were others with us?" he looked at her with dark eyes, and then glanced again at mingar, who looked like a sick dog, staring at the blonde aes sedai.

darien
strikingly handsome
incredibly modest

     Mingar had finished cleaning and sharpening his sword and decided it was time for some fresh air.  He walked up to the top deck and leaned on the railing.  He could feel the saidin being woven into the sails by a Dedicated.  It helped the ship fly over the sea.  He looked out over the sea contemplating life.  Mingar felt...comfortable on this ship surrounded by his friends, companions, and...family.  Yes, he had found his family at last.  No more wandering around aimly.  No more trips to the Blight hoping to die.  He had lost his first family, now he would die before losing this one.  He had not known that friendship like this was possible.  He was part of something now.  He was a thread in the bigger tapestry of the Black Tower.  Mingar had finally found a home.  After the Trollocs had killed his family, he had gone mad.  He tried to chase them down.  He even went into the Blight.  He had brought no food, water, or even the proper clothes.  He was found by a band of soldiers, out from Fal Dara.  They brought him back to the fortress, fed him, and listened to his story.  After he was well his madness was replaced by a cold burning anger.  His blood had turned to ice.  The fire of his heart had been quenched by the hatred running through his veins.  He was starting to thaw now.  He had started to laugh again.  He had made his first joke in twelve years a couple days ago.  His life had changed.  The wheel weaves as the wheel wills.
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just an insight into my character boys and gal(s)
MWA HA HA HA HA!!!
Joe
nope the taint as not taken me yet.

 Stevan rushed over to the ship which had Sen and Tor had just brought over with their boat. It had been a hard day yesterday, killing Seanchan, and he was still tired. He arrived just as Sen was issuing instructions to board the ship. "Ah, Stevan, you're here." Sen grinned at him and spoke in a jovial tone. "I was hoping we could use your expertees in this mission." Sen then turned to face everyone else. "Right, get into partners and we'll dish out parts of the ship to each pair. In that part you must try to find out what has happened - using the Power or your skills of deduction..."

::meekly:: Anyone want to go with me......... ::whines pitifully::

Steve
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Asha'man Stevan
Lord Of Fal Dara