Life as she knew it, was going well. A cool breeze flowed by her, its force thin and almost enchantingly so. The day was fresh still, Vera knew as she looked up into the long stretches of sky, the blue a young, lively shade that would gradually change into so many other, it was impossible to count how many. Saidar was a beautiful sensation that enhanced senses and as she sat there dribbling little spheres of Air, Vera found herself letting go and becoming a part of the nature that surrounded her, the same environment, she realized during a moment of revelation, that she now called home. A little away, not unlike a little child her garden was groping through the darkness into its first steps of life, thin twines curling themselves onto the stone walls that loomed behind all of them- her, the trees, the flowers, even the Tower to some extent. However, some extent only. It had been a month since Vera had crossed her first Arch, a month since she had left the little chamber she had shared for so long with Aoife. A month, she knew all this while, since she had heard the sound of Shayna’s voice. There were no whispers any more, there was no pain. She was healed. Or was she? Again, the question was answered with an ominous silence for the deep caverns of her mind knew no answer but that which she herself wanted to believe: She was free. Vera remembered the screams that had torn her apart during her Arches, remembered not only those of Shayna’s but her own. It had taken two weeks for her voice to return to the way it once was, but she knew it was going to take much longer for her to forget the paths the ter’angreal had led her through.

 

 

This time, Vera did not try to push these thoughts away, she did not try to alienate herself from pain, for ultimately, she had realized during her five years as Novice, it would come. Letting her mind wander as much as it pleased, Vera began to play a little distractedly with the balls in her hand until she was suddenly bored with them and wanted to try something more challenging. More enticing, yet something that did not attract attention. Ripples, perhaps, she thought, a small smirk on her lips containing the pleasure she felt. Slowly she let weaves of Earth touch the soil and quickly curl around the mud. Vera was never going to be very strong in Earth, but at least she should develop her weaves so that they reached their maximum skill; Having made the threads as thick as her weak affinity with the element allowed her to, she began to push the weaves, picturing it not only in her mind but moving her hands as well, in strong forceful movements. Slowly, she found the weaves beginning to take place before her. Eyes shining, she continued to play with the weaves, her hands and gestures animated, even from a distance. It was only luck perhaps that had ensured that she had chosen a shaded corner, away from the rest and hard to find for indeed, if she had been seen in such a state, not only would she be berated for her manners but also for overuse of the One Power. It was also perhaps just luck again, that it was only a Novice who found her so, slender hands clutching to the paper in her hand as she watched the Accepted in mingled surprise and admiration. It was a rather stimulating sight, truth to be told. And one, the Novice felt, should not be disturbed. And so she waited, shifting slightly every now and then as the Accepted went from one weave to another, the joy in her eyes apparent.

 

It was only when the Novice shifted so that a shadow was cast on the grass before Vera, that her presence was noticed. Turning around immediately, she let go of Saidar, smoothing her dress as she did so. What if it was a….releasing a sigh of relief as her eyes met with those of the younger girl, Vera smiled, for the Novice was one she knew and well acquainted with. For a while they continued to talk, laughing pleasantly as they talked of the Novice life Vera had left behind. Perhaps they would have continued to do so for much longer if the Accepted had not noticed the thin parchment in the others hand, pressed still into her stomach, her hands protective. Raising an eyebrow inquisitively, she questioned the white-clad girl immediately, who suddenly blushed a shade of mortification Vera knew well and understood. Gently she took the paper from the Novice girl’s still reluctant hands and unfolded it. Accepted Vera, make it so that you reach the Petitioner’s Hall immediately after this message is brought to you. Nyssa Deschain, Sister of the Gray Ajah. Nyssa Deschain. The name was known to her of course, familiar, but then, so were those of most Sisters. It was if not openly, still expected for an Accepted to be acquainted with the names of all Aes Sedai in the Tower. What puzzled her though, was the summons. Making a swift exit from the gardens, she strode towards the Hall, her steps brisk, her face one of she who was too lost in thought too be bothered by anything else.

 

What indeed could she be needed for? She had not personally encountered Nyssa often, perhaps a chore there, a few words here…certainly not since she had been Raised. Was she…..dare she say it, in trouble? But if so, why would she be called by Nyssa Deschain of all Aes Sedai? Surely it would be Faerzyne Sedai’s office she would be sent to now, if it was trouble the matter concerned. Puzzled, Vera tried hard to smooth her face, imitating so many Aes Sedai she had passed and seen. Composure however, although present, was being evasive. She was a little nervous, she realized. And more than a touch taken aback. Having reached the hall, she looked around, past the various faces she saw until finally, she spotted her. Walking smoothly towards her, she made a last attempt to rid her features of the confusion she felt, knowing it would not to well for the Sedai to notice the surprise she felt. It might even bring about slight offense, which, Vera knew, she could not afford. Lowering herself, she curtsied gracefully before rising again and opening her mouth.

 

“I got a summons, Nyssa Sedai..? To meet you here….â€

 

~~~~~~~~

 

Vera Cadsanome

Accepted

Shades of gray

 

~~~~~

 

Masks were such a beautiful and refined way to hide things from people. Nyssa stood next to Faerzyne’s fireplace, admiring a black, porcelain mask framed with dark feathers. A rustling of clothes behind her betrayed movement from her Sister. “It’s a fine piece, don’t you agree?†the older Aes Sedai said as she walked up to the fireplace. Nyssa smiled. “It’s quite lovely… and functional of course. Cairhienin, if I’m not mistaken?†The soft tingling of bells meant that the Mistress of Novices nodded. “Of course.†Nyssa whispered, before turning. “I should be on my way. Wouldn’t want to be late for my meeting with the talented young lady you’ve picked out of the masses.†Again they shared a smile. Faerzyne had an eye for talented young women. For one side or the other, which was fine with Nyssa. It still pleased her that Faerzyne and she thought alike in so many cases.

 

The fine satin of her dress rustled softly as she walked down the hallways that belonged to the Gray Ajah. As a sudden breeze ruffled the dress even more, Nyssa pulled her shawl closer around her. Sometimes it had more than one function. At least no older Aes Sedai would bother to stop her now. Even though she had been raised for quite a while now, they still tended to test her, just to see if she was indeed worthy of the shawl. Nyssa treated them all with the same graceful disdain that could turn Freja even more sour than she usually was. She smiled sweetly as she glided past a pair of Sitters, whispering about something they no doubt thought was important. She could feel their eyes on her back for a while. They were fools. Weaklings hiding behind their given status. Wearing masks of power that could crumble with the slightest breeze of a rumour. A rumour even a servant could spread. Power was such a relative thing.

 

Around the corner she went, and into the masses. Even though it was a quiet day, petitioners had already gathered in the hall, and even on the steps that lead to the White Tower. They stepped aside as she approached, giving her all the space she desired. Once again she marvelled at the effect a shawl and a serene look had on people. It was no more than smoke to her. With a change of clothes and some make-up she could move among them as one of them, instead of someone they worshipped at times, and despised at others. She smiled an nodded at them, continuing on her way purposefully, yet without rushing. Grace was her mask at the moment, and she wore it well.

 

Yet even for her grace was not easily maintained when one was bored and waiting for someone in a corner of a crowded hall. Fortunately her waiting ended soon, as the Accepted Faerzyne had pointed out to her arrived. The girl was hesitant, frightened even. Nyssa smiled reassuringly. “I got a summons, Nyssa Sedai..? To meet you here….†The girl before her seemed as pure as a blank page, but Nyssa knew that there had been things that bothered her. Faerzyne had told her that much. “Yes dear, I did. Faerzyne told me that you had the afternoon of, and I was wondering if you would like to join me for a walk.†Without really waiting for an answer, Nyssa placed her arm on Vera’s, and guided her out of the Hall, and into the city. For a while they walked quietly, and Nyssa could almost feel the anticipation building in Vera. As usual they drew eyes to them, an Accepted in an almost white dress, and an Aes Sedai who was dressed in dark indigo, as if she had done so purposefully to contrast with the girl next to her. After a few more moments of silence, Nyssa spoke. “Tell me, Vera… What do you know about the Great Game of Houses?â€

 

~~~~~~~~``

 

The face before her, she noticed immediately now that she was close, was quite beautiful really. Nyssa Sedai had always struck her as someone attractive, pretty yes but then, so had most other Aes Sedai. Their grace, she knew, could easily match the beauty of even the loveliest of damsels and their calm…. she did not need to describe the effect it had on her, for it was this same effect that had caused -among many other things of course- the building of legends. The stark white complexion against the silky black locks, the slanted eyes- this was beyond the common prettiness she could find in many faces and swirling colours, even now as they stood before one another, puzzled glances coming there way as others of curious natures observed from a distance, clearly interested by the contrast of personalities they found themselves before. Or behind, it didn’t matter. Taking the smile as intended, Vera relaxed slightly, visibly perhaps as well, for it was with definite amounts of doubt that she mulled over having ‘imagined’ the slightly amused shine she had glimpsed in those brown eyes. “Yes dear, I did. Faerzyne told me that you had the afternoon off, and I was wondering if you would like to join me for a walk.†A pleasant voice. Like chimes really, when moved by the breeze. Only a breeze though, with just hints of something stronger present. Faerzyne. Thinking of the Mistress of Novices, she smiled. Yes, Faerzyne had had her experiences with Vera. Nothing directly of course, ‘nothing’ in the sense that she had spoken to her face to face of her…. troubles. Troubles. A safe title to cover oneself under, that.

 

She did not get much choice in the matter or actually, the supposed ‘request’ Nyssa had put forward. Soon they were off, without seeming to care about another’s views or a slightly more traditional Sister as they notice the arm Nyssa had looped through Vera’s. Quite the picture. They were walking, she noticed as they took another turn, towards the city. Eyes lowered to the ground, that would change every now and then from marble to earthen brown, she did not try and create conversation. Firstly, of course because Nyssa herself seemed to be in no want of any or was waiting for a certain point to be crossed on their seemingly aimless path and secondly…secondly because she was enjoying the quiet. The peace was lulling to her mind and immediately another scene came up in her mind, a clear well detailed picture of Aoife Rois sitting coolly on the edge of a stark white mattress, her face more composed than it would naturally be. Yes, it was one and the same, for peace, like everything else in this world, came in variety. It occurred to her suddenly as she studied the rich quality of the indigo cloth that the Sister wore, that from a distance and mind you a great distance it would be, they could be mistaken for the Dragon’s banner: the Aes Sedai playing the part of the Fang while she herself played the Flame. Mouth twisting slightly, she rid herself of the image for now, for indeed, the pictured idea was not pretty. So much simpler to say that the contrast of black and white was amusing but then, that would bring reaction; That would not be grand.

 

“Tell me, Vera… What do you know about the Great Game of Houses?â€

 

Daes Dae’mar. Now these were words Vera found harder to pronounce than most others, for all her upbringing in Cairhien. To find it here of all things, amidst the fringes of Tar Valon while she herself continued to walk arm in arm with an Aes Sedai. It did not matter nor did it help when she reminded herself that she too would reach the same masked elegance one day, if she were to succeed. It surprised her of course, to the extent that she started slightly before containing herself, but that didn’t matter- Nyssa had noticed. She must’ve. What though, she could not helping wondering, was this about? For all her Cairhienin blood, Vera was no player of the Great Game. No, that was and always would be Shayna. She was more like her father she had begun to assume but then, how could her father have been an innocent? Shrugging subconsciously she struggled with herself in silence as she tried to think up a suitable reply, for whether or not she was skilled, she knew her facts, Vera did.†The Great Game, Nyssa Sedai?,†began Vera, her tone still hesitant for all the practice Lavinya had made her do. It is a foul, wretched thing created by those who do not possess lives.Hastily, she sealed her ever scandalous thoughts, knowing it would only harm if she listened now, for Nyssa Sedai she was sure, did play the Game. “I know that it is dangerous. I know that once you are lost in it, it is nearly impossible to get out. I know that suddenly…everything has a newer, stranger meaning.â€

 

She paused suddenly as she heard herself: the words were bitter for all her hesitance. It was like the juice of sour grapes had touched her tongue, the twist her lips had found to themselves now. Looking up at Nyssa Sedai, she spoke once more, this time a little more careful in her choice of words: “I did not mean to sound so bitter Nyssa Sedai. It is just that…my homeland, Cairhien as you must know, is filled with such things. I am not...skilled with this game. My sister however, enjoyed it.†She stopped there, the ending simple, the words she knew oozing knowledge that was unnecessary and yet…

 

~~~~~~~~~`

 

Bitter indeed Nyssa thought as she heard Vera Cadsanome talk of her thoughts on Daes Dae’mar. It came as a surprise and yet not. She knew that Vera was born in Cairhien, and that the Great Game had to be in her blood, singing to her when she slept. Yet she also knew that even in Cairhien, people had the wrong impression of the Game she now practised without much thought. She smiled sweetly. Perhaps the White Tower changed Daes Dae’mar the way it changed the people that lived within it. Nyssa had never thought of the Great Game as dangerous, even though she knew it could be. Skill was necessary here, because even the lowliest servant of the White Tower played the game more avidly than some of the lords and ladies of Cairhien. Nyssa smiled again, storing the information Vera had given her freely in her mind, ready to be used at another time.

 

“You must not apologise for the things you believe in, Vera. I can not accuse you of being wrong. I can merely attempt to change your mind.†She spoke, guiding the Accepted through the streets of Tar Valon, to one of the marketplaces. There perhaps Vera would see a more practical use of the thing she seemed to despise so. “I must warn you though. Daes Dae’mar involves all of us. Every single person who comes within sight of an Aes Sedai is pulled into it.†She left that sentence hanging, knowing full well that Vera would grasp the implications of it. She was blind to the benefits of the Great Game, not stupid.

 

“Borderlanders…†she started, her eyes settling on a pair of tall Tower Guards walking by, looking fierce and dark, the way borderlanders often did. “… have the luxury of looking their enemy in the eye. They have a common cause to fight against, which unites them stronger than any other cause.†They stepped onto the marketplace, which vibrated with activity, as Nyssa had expected it would. She guided the younger woman over to a bench at the side of the square. A path cleared itself for them as people stepped aside to let the Aes Sedai and the Accepted pass. For a moment the people on the marketplace seemed to freeze. As it became clear that Nyssa and Vera had no intention to trade the moment of quiet anticipation ended, and business continued as usual.

 

“Other people, and even Aes Sedai are not as fortunate. We have not looked our enemy in the eye, and therefore we don’t know how to fight it.†She savoured the irony of that statement for a moment. Some times the servants of the Light were blinder than people gave them credit for. “Do you understand why the borderlands seem to have no need for the Great Game of Houses?†she asked Vera. Perhaps if the girl saw why the borderlands were free if it, she would also see why every other country needed it.

 

~~~~~~~~`

 

For a few moments they continued to walk in a steady silence, the descended atmosphere a heavy one, the ripples of noise around them an irritating contrast in her mind. Irony, she had come to think, haunted people at the worst of times. This perhaps wasn’t one of them since she needn’t be more dramatic than she already was, but sometimes…sometimes such moments would be remembered and she would qualify them then, when she was in a mood far worse than the one she was in now, that indeed, that had been annoying. “You must not apologise for the things you believe in, Vera. I can not accuse you of being wrong. I can merely attempt to change your mind.†The words, Vera noted, were well chosen…careful…cautious. Prodding yes, but prodding as one would prod the snarling dog that belonged to your neighbour. Or perhaps that was too harsh…Nyssa Sedai here was simply...diplomatic. Aptly so, she knew, as she studied the gray cloth from the corner of her eye. This was in reality, a far better way of thinking and handling things. It was at the very least, a much smarter course than the one she herself had chosen. Passions and flares were all very well, but in the end, was it mad impulse that gifted you the rush of power? Nay, there is a very fine line between passionate and intelligent and usually, they are crossed- they are mingled.

 

She took in Nyssa’s words with quiet contemplation as she was sure, the other expected her to do. Implications…so many implications- she was already being pulled into the Game, Vera knew. Already, every so subtlely, it was being used on her. She wondered for a moment, her mind like that of a flippant young child, whether Nyssa had always been as good at Daes Dae’mar as she now was. Had she too been guided and prodded? By whom, it made you wonder… “Borderlanders…â€- her words came as a cool interruption, thoughtful and certainly more interesting to Vera than the vague silhouette of the subtle manipulator that had formed in her mind. Tilting her head slightly, she looked at Nyssa as she spoke, knowing full well that it was not really the Tower Gaurds she needed to watch. She knew the expression that usually courted a Borderlander’s face- stone after all that was humane, could be stone for only this long. The sudden rush of noise that flowed through the market made her lose the string of words forming in her mind and ultimately, she found herself unable to do much more than simply watch and listen. And learn, of course. She was slowly beginning to accept the ‘mission’ to be achieved in this little escapade Nyssa had planned.

 

“Do you understand why the borderlands seem to have no need for the Great Game of Houses?â€

 

She continued to stare into the opposite direction, that in this case being the rise and fall of a young man’s wagon wheel which was currently being placed into order. Undisturbed by the growing silence, Vera continued to contemplate as she studied the mass of colour swirling around her, the patterns vibrant, the quality rich and youthful. For a moment or two her eyes shifted to the stony cheekbones of the borderlanders they had just passed and she watched openly, for she knew after all, that they certainly wouldn’t react. “In relation to your words, Nyssa Sedai, my answer is that they know that above all others, their enemy is the shadow just across. That there is…no time for trivials like the power of their houses for indeed, there is a greater matter at hand for them and that….is none other than the fight for survival. They have an enemy too close, too near and too hostile for them to go looking for others. On the other hand though, is it not human nature to suspect? Is it thusly, not human nature that is the Game, ultimately?†The words fell smoothly, the questions of a strange, rich nature Vera did not understand and yet this was how she felt. This was what had come to her mind.

 

~~~~~``

 

The corners of Nyssa’s mouth curved into a slight smile, one that even reached her eyes. Reluctant as she might have been, Vera was a good student of the Great Game. It was in her blood, and that meant that eventually all denial would be made impossible. Human nature indeed. The Game sang to those who had a gift for it, and it’s sweet voice was hard to deny. Nyssa had never been one to try going without it for long. “Borderlanders are lucky, according to some. They are strangers to the Game, and the Great Game is kept far from their towns and cities. They see a threat in the beasts of the border. Some who don’t live among them might agree. Not many though. We might try to live as they do, free from the Game, but it would be foolish. The Game is here, and it’s used by too many to pretend it doesn’t exist. The survival of many depends on our skills in something the borderlanders call a ‘silly game’.†She had turned her head for a moment, and her eyes were fixed upon the White Tower. We. Our. All who dwelled within the walls of the White Tower.

 

“Life could be simple. Should be simple, if everyone lived their lived the way the Light wishes it. If we were all perfect and pure, no battle would ever be fought. But alas, it is not so. Darkness taints the perfect world the Creator left for us, and we must do our best to defend that which is still good against the forces of that Darkness. Be it sword or be it word… Battles are fought on many different levels and fields.†She fell silent for a moment, thinking on what she still wished to teach Vera. It would take years for her to become as proficient in reading the patterns of the game as Nyssa was, but the Aes Sedai hoped she would at least manage to plant the seeds of interest in Vera’s mind.

 

“So when we accept the horrible truth…†Nyssa started again, her eyes twinkling with mirth, almost as if to show Vera that she was joking in a way. “…we must find a way to arm ourselves against it. Powerful as we may seem, we Aes Sedai are bound by rules that make us vulnerable in the game.†Well, some were at least. Others had chosen a different path in life, and a different Lord to follow. “That means we must be better at it than every other player. It means that we must read people as if they were open books, even when they hide the truth from us. We must be able to negotiate without words as easily as we do with words. We must take every opportunity our opposition offers us, and we must be ruthless in taking advantage of it’s weaknesses. It will be just as ruthless to us when it has the chance.â€

 

She sat down on the narrow bench on the marketplace, and waved over at the people going about their daily business. “Even here, in trade and in every day life, in the end it’s all about who has the last laugh. The better we are at Daes Dae’mar, the more likely it gets that we will be the one who laughs last, when we finally face that which threatens us.†Nyssa looked at Vera, hoping that the girl understood all she had said. “Tell me, Vera… Do you see people using the Great Game here on this market square?â€

 

~~~~

 

OOC: Nyssa, the reply is being posted very soon. :) Look out for it.

She realized with the quick soft lifting of curves that she had pleased Nyssa. Or at least amused her. Perhaps the answer lied in both- a sensible intermingling then? Whatever the reality might be, Vera knew she wasn’t going to uncover the truth any time soon. But then, she didn’t really want to. “Borderlanders are lucky, according to some. They are strangers to the Game, and the Great Game is kept far from their towns and cities. They see a threat in the beasts of the border.†Trollocs. Myrdraal. Or simply people? Were these the horrors the Sister spoke of? To her, they still seemed to be part of a very enchanting, very popular myth: the final touches for a grand story, that had a hero and ofcourse, had a villain. That sounded appallingly similar to real life, she thought with a small smile. Who would be the villain of her life, she wondered. Writing? Words? Opening her mouth? Or was it all of them? With a vague reddening of cheeks, her eyes lifted themselves up to Nyssa’s face, who was speaking still, in earnest. …. “We might try to live as they do, free from the Game, but it would be foolish.†Yes, she knew what Nyssa meant. Was it not the very reason she hated the Game? The truth was, it was as far from a ‘game’ than possible. And that was why she disliked it so. It had taken so many lives, so many brilliant people and yet, it was of a base so petty and still so sought after. Power. A five letter word that held so much importance today, blood would be spilt, sacrifices made with eyes closed and ears deafened.

 

“Life could be simple. Should be simple, if everyone lived their lived the way the Light wishes it. If we were all perfect and pure, no battle would ever be fought.â€

 

There again, power was the cause and the reason it continued. Had we been born this tainted? Or perhaps….perhaps this was not a ‘fault’. Perhaps this was what we were. Created so that it made you wonder about the Light and faith. Faith that she had followed blindly for so long now. “Darkness taints the perfect world the Creator left for us, and we must do our best to defend that which is still good against the forces of that Darkness.†Vera nodded almost out of habit in response, although, suddenly, she found herself in turmoil. Was there truly faith?

 

…Silence…

 

 

“So when we accept the horrible truth…†Layered with dry humour, the words came as a fresh, very welcomed interrupter. When she looked up at the Gray, she found eyes merry with humour looking her way which due to their genuine nature, made Vera smile herself. Suddenly, the thunder clouds above her seemed to have become just a little more weak. Or a little less important at any rate. As she continued to listen to Nyssa, the Sister’s words falling softly and smoothly, rocking to and fro in her mind like a chiming pendulum, she found herself agreeing with the other. It made complete…sense. Logic was never something Vera had prided herself in and yet here, she was looking at it in a completely cold-hearted manner. Light, she was changing. Rapidly. For the better? She didn’t know. Atleast she was quiet about it she thought, smirking slightly. Watching the Sister, with her passion driven words of intelligence and wit, she knew it was easy to be swayed by people because of sheer personality. Had Shayna not done just that? Even long after she had been buried under an alien soil, her words resonated in Vera’s mind, her smile a memory that was cemented completely. Perhaps that was the way things are. The weak become stronger by being shown the way. Guidance could never hurt anyone, she thought as her eyes followed the rise and fall of delicate white hands as they bettered the words that were being said with so much meaning and such subtle force.

 

“Tell me, Vera… Do you see people using the Great Game here on this market square?â€

 

Shifting her gaze from her teacher’s face, she looked across the market square, straight along the streets Nyssa had motioned towards. It was like any other market if you asked her: Busy, dirty and filled with people both very ruthless and very innocent. The streets were littered with apple cores and dry leaves; People went on by them almost without noting their presence, which was not unusual actually. And yet, somewhat upsetting. “Is it not very much the same picture you would see in any other city of wealth and prosperity? Take the woman standing at that corner, Nyssa Sedai. She is young and the plump nature of her body only adds to her beauty. Her playful smile is so natural that it makes one think that it is an expected feature. And perhaps in some ways it is. But in other ways…right now, I can also see that it is directed. Specifically towards the man next to her. He does not seem very important, certainly not welloff. The sack in his hands almost suggest a very servile nature. Perhaps he is the boy working at the smartest house round the corner.†For a bit, she paused and observed the two silently. He did not have much money she knew. It would barely be enough to buy the apples she was selling him. One…Two…Three…Sold. Laughing softly, she turned to smile at the Gray. “I never knew it was there in so great a degree. Why, I must’ve been fooled myself by many a vendor. Not that I am so easily taken.†She blushed slightly as she heard herself. Her experiences with the other gender were few and rare and at this awkward stage, she found herself blushing very often when thinking about men.

 

Nyssa would be very amused. She just knew it.

 

~Vera

Pretty little child ;)

Nyssa followed Vera’s gaze to the young woman selling the apples, and the boy buying them from her, even if he probably didn’t have the money. A smile curved her lips as she watched the way the woman positioned her body, the way she laughed at something the boy said. The way she manipulated him into buying something he could not afford. Letting him think that he was buying her favour. Yet when it came down to it, she would drop him like a stone if a more interesting prey came along. People were so predictable. She knew she could loop the woman around her finger several times if she had tried. One did not play the Game with as much joy as she did without getting very, very good at it.

 

Vera’s observations were accurate. Nyssa smiled again at the Accepted. “Very good.†She whispered, allowing Vera to continue in her observations a little longer. Finally she reached the statement that Nyssa had been waiting for. She realised that she too had been the prey of those who played the game avidly. “Realisation is the first step towards bettering yourself.†She said, ignoring the blush on Vera’s cheeks. She would do the girl a favour or two. She herself hadn’t been all that secure when she was an Accepted. “Now that you see that the Great Game is everywhere, you can arm yourself against it. Just by living in the White Tower, which some say is the centre of all Games must have taught you a lot about the Game. You will find that, now that you are aware of it, you will not be fooled by the wiles of a vendor anymore.â€

 

“Still, thinking that merely seeing it will make you proficient at it would be foolish. As I said, realisation is the first step. The next step is being immune to it. Resist the offer made when you or those you serve gain nothing from it. When an offer does gain you something, you must think on it long and hard. The price has to be worth the gain. If not, refuse. If the one offering is eager enough, they will lower their price.†Nyssa glanced over at the woman selling the apples. She’d lost interest in the young man now that he’d given her all that he had. “And you must keep in mind that emotions always play a role in Daes Dae’mar. The young man will remember his hurt feelings the next time he has money to spend, and he will not spend it on her. In order to make ally people to you, you must keep them close even when you do not need them right that moment.â€

 

“Now, with this in mind, I would like it if you went to that merchant,†she pointed at a man with a rat-like face selling bracelets and necklaces, “And buy yourself something that will remind you of what I’ve told you about the Great Game.†She handed Vera a pouch that was heavy with the weight of silver coins in it.

Apples. Light, what will he do with apples?

 

A sliver of disgust had entered the mirth she had first felt as she continued to watch the fruit vendor. Woman. How would it feel, she wondered, after he understood the nature of her flirtation? Betrayed? Humiliated? Angry? All of them combined? Her eyes widened a little as she watched her thoughts occur before her, almost like one of her paintings except this was in every sense possible, reality. The woman had now turned away from the boy, her back straight and cold which was a clear sign of ‘backing away’ for the young man. His face had turned a delicate red and even from the distance Vera was watching from, she could tell by the change in his posture that he was offended. “Now that you see that the Great Game is everywhere, you can arm yourself against it.†The words came in a soft but firm tone, the accuracy of the timing making her look up curiously at Nyssa. The glance of course, revealed nothing and the Gray continued talking. “Just by living in the White Tower, which some say is the centre of all Games must have taught you a lot about the Game. You will find that, now that you are aware of it, you will not be fooled by the wiles of a vendor anymore.†But how often had it she been fooled before this? Crimson fire swirling through her insides, she lowered her eyes in embarrassment. How many shopkeepers had bought her trust with their warmth? How many of them had smirked as she left the shop, bells jingling long enough before they did so? Oh the embarrassment. She never wanted to return. Not to that vicinity atleast. And that too, Cairhien…

 

“Now, with this in mind, I would like it if you went to that merchant and buy yourself something that will remind you of what I’ve told you about the Great Game.â€

 

Unlike the earlier times when Nyssa had interrupted her thoughts, Vera did not have to restrain herself from sighing out loud in relief. Quite the contrary, actually. Bending her head slightly so that her chestnut waves would cover her face, she began to recount all that Nyssa had just said before having spoken most recently. Furiously she thought back to the words that had slipped by her in such a lulling fashion but a few minutes ago. And all she got, as she stood up suddenly, were vague whispers. Whispers. Really, she thought indignantly as she cautiously picked up the bag of silver, its weight only adding to the pressure she felt. If she went and got fooled now…dropping a polite curtsey, she turned around, her face a blank mask. But a mask only- it was not natural- that, she had yet to learn and perfect. The merchant who the Aes Sedai had pointed to earlier was now watching her with apparent interest, his smile oily, his eyes glittering in a manner Vera did not quite appreciate. It did not take much longer for her to realize that Nyssa had chosen one of the worst crooks who had ever lined the streets and markets of Tar Valon. His small eyes squinted slightly as she seated herself in front of him, smiling politely as she did so. It was when he noticed the small pouch she was clutching, that he jumped into a long array of words, both oily and unpleasant to her ears. Not smooth though. Never smooth. The words flew past her as she studied the display before her but she cared to appear interested. Her face had on a thoughtful guise, head tilting from side to side as she eyed the handicraft. Occassionally, she would look up at him, straight in the eye as he spoke, nodding slightly.

 

Some of the work was quite pretty really, Vera noted as she idly picked up a thin silver bracelet. Intricate lines of design had been carved into it, coiling in a vine like fashion. Loops that you were tangled in forever…yes, she would buy it. “You like it, yes?†She looked up at him and smiled sweetly, feigning embarrassment for him to have been able to ‘guess’ the obvious. But this was a shrewd man, it would not do to overdo it. “For you, I give the very special price of three silver crowns.†Eyes widening slightly before she could stop herself, she stared scathingly at the merchant, now more greasy in his black livery than ever before. Was the word ‘fool’ written all over her? Like a branded cow, really. But no, she couldn’t give into anger right now. Forcing herself to smoothen her face, she smiled politely, “That must be a terribly low price, I am sure, but for me, I am afraid it will be stretching things too far.†Rising smoothly, she inclined her head in farewell and turned to leave when he spoke yet again, “Wait please! The bracelet is too pretty on your hand…what price is it you be looking for?†Smiling with genuine delight, she turned once more and lowered herself. Reaching out for the bracelet, she wondered for just a moment if Nyssa was watching all this…

 

In the end, thought Vera, as she made her way back to the bench where Nyssa was sitting in wait of her arrival, it had been worth it. Gently placing the bracelet before her, she spoke, a little apprehensive but proud still: “I bought it for a half a silver crown. And please, let the next time be with someone a little less…oily, Nyssa Sedai.â€

 

 

~Not a fan of them greasy ones ;)

The dark Aes Sedai threw her head back slightly and laughed. “Very well, my dear, very well. I shall not force you to interact with the greasy ones here again today.†She smiled warmly at the Accepted at her side, quite proud of the way she had handled things. Nyssa had expected more from the trader, but sometimes even she was wrong in judging people. Sometimes, but not often. She took Vera’s hand in hers so she could take a closer look at the bracelet the girl had gotten. It reminded her of the design she had stitched onto her shawl. Dark vines twined over the gray material, coiling and coiling, until it seemed that they trapped the shawl underneath. Nyssa was never one to forgo the possibility to hint at her true nature. She raised her face slightly, capturing a hint of sunlight. Here she was, a child of the Dark standing in the middle of Tar Valon, under the light. She was quite sure that she was one of the few who could appreciate the irony of it.

 

She turned her attention to Vera again, who was watching her with a hind of anticipation in her stance. “People are fooled easily.†She said, glancing over at the greasy trader who was eying the both of them with a scowl on his face. Some people truly expected Aes Sedai to pay the full price. Just because the Tower had money. She shook her head slightly. “Too easily, most of the times. That is why we must be careful at all times. Aes Sedai do not have the best reputations. When you decide to tell someone only a part of the truth, you must be sure that it sounds like the whole truth, and nothing else. You should tell it convincing enough for people to believe you beyond all doubt. For when people start to doubt our word, it makes it less effective. There will be times when the survival of nation depends solely on the word of an Aes Sedai, and when it does, you must make sure that your words are right.â€

 

She glanced over to a pair of women near the water well at the centre of the square. They were gossiping, that much was obvious. “But enough of this serious talk.†She said with a wink. “I have one more task for you, Vera, and then I would like to buy you dinner.†She smiled warmly at the young woman. “I would very much like to know what those women are talking about. Why don’t you find out for me? Try to be as inconspicuous as possible. And as you listen to them, try to come up with the significance of gossip in general.â€

 

Ooc: well, there you go, greaseless gossips ;)

To Vera atleast, it seemed terribly ironic that from the very depths of solemn talk they had arrived here: Nyssa’s face lit up with an amused grin while she herself glanced rather awkwardly at the women she had motioned at. She did not gossip. She never had. That again, had been something very much down Shayna’s path of mystery and subtle smugness. “I would very much like to know what those women are talking about. Why don’t you find out for me? Perhaps it was because Nyssa too had noted the irony that would come with her words that made her say them in the first place. Wretched Aes Sedai, she thought halfheartedly as she slowly made her way towards the women, who were now being watched by more eyes than they would ever know. Step by step, she dragged herself forward, watching them as they carried on, blissfully unaware. For a few moments as she trudged along, she felt very tempted to laugh as she continued to watch them. They were both rather…well-fed women, their skin bulging slightly near their sides. One of them, Vera noticed between her mirth, could be particularly pretty, should she bother to leave behind her idle, but terribly tempting gossip.

 

But it was not the many layers of fat that amused her so. It was the actions. The hand movements. The pretentiously widened eyes of one while another spoke in hushed whispers. It was in fact, these very things that had attracted Nyssa to them.

 

Reluctantly Vera came to a stop, now only a few paces away from the gossipers, she found herself flummoxed. Finding herself terribly tempted to glance backwards in Nyssa’s direction, she stared harder at the ground, turning her back to the women behind. Even so, loud-stage whispers, even- whispers came her way, oozing with the needed drama and suspense. And to think this made so many people’s daily enjoyment, she thought with a dark face. Turning around quietly, she went and stood beside the two women, trying her best to fit in with the wallpaper while doing so. Of course, it was not to be. Both women paused amidst their conversation and turned to look at her, taking her Accepted’s dress with an arched eyebrow. Upon realizing that they were waiting for her to speak, Vera hastened into speech: “Good day to you. I have word from…Leslie. You know Leslie ofcourse? The seamstress’s daughter, Leslie? So terribly humiliated…her father was quite adamant of course, so she really had no other option.â€It is amusing enough, when one finds another pretending to know about a fictional story. However, what is even more amusing, is when the other individual actually carries it on.

 

“Oh yes terrible!,†started one of the women, instantly forgetting Vera. “Her mother and I are very good friends. I know all about it. They plan on….you know of course?†she had now turned to the other woman, who instantly jumped into conversation, talking in great detail about the tragedy of Leslie. Slowly but surely, the conversation began to drift-

 

“ ‘Ave you heard of what happened to Sara Conrow’s daughter? Quite the mess that girl is. So shameful. Apparently, and I heard this from a very good source, she’s decided that she wants to marry young Davian- you know, the locksmith’s son? Well, her father’s quite outraged. And he really should be….â€

 

“Oh but you must know about Old Farren. I’ve just heard that he means to get married to beautiful Raetha Marksky. And she’s meaning to say yes too! All because of that gold he inherited. My son is heartbroken, really. He really was quite mad about her…â€

 

“Forget that! I’ve better news still. The merchants are coming! They’re coming in about two weeks from now. My husband was telling me jus’ yesterday. Apparently they come on half-price! Apparently its only because of them Tower ones...â€

 

Deftly the women spun their web of exaggeration and lies, each tale wilder than the first. Each reaction a louder, more emphasized one. How did Shayna bother with such trifles? And to think the gossips had loved her so much too. Noticing that the women were truly lost in their little spider’s web, Vera stealthily walked away. At first, she took a long turn around so that they would not notice that it was the “Aes Sedai†she was with. Walking on at a much faster pace than she had reached there with, it was with a screwed up expression of disgust that she sat down beside the Gray.

 

“I honestly do not think, Nyssa Sedai, that you would like to know of their talk. But if you do….there are at least fourteen runaways that they know of and there are six women who have killed their husbands. Other than that, the merchants are to be coming here soon. Considering that the “merchants†are here practically all the time…â€

 

~Vera

Gray Aspirant

And to think that gossiping can be so much fun ;)

The Gray sister kept a close eye on the Accepted as she stealthily made her way over to the gossiping pair that she had pointed out earlier. She smiled as she saw the girl pretend to be air at first, and then pretend to be one of them when they finally took notice of her. Soon enough the women were talking again, Vera all but forgotten save for the occasional glance, which the girl answered with a nod, a shake of her head, or an exclamation. For one who claimed to have such a firm dislike of the Great Game, she seemed to have a natural affinity for the finesse it required. “Very good.†Nyssa mused, waiting patiently for the girl to return to her. Soon enough Vera grew tired of gossip. Yet she did not rush back to Nyssa, no, she took great care to keep her affiliation to Nyssa hidden by taking a bit of a detour.

 

She listened patiently as Vera told her about the things she had heard, her smile growing with ever over exaggerated rumour. “Nothing of value, you say? Are you sure you haven’t missed something?†her questioning look brought a frown to Vera’s face. “Think hard, was there anything they said that might have concerned us, an Aes Sedai and an Accepted from the White Tower?†Nyssa could almost see thoughts forming in Vera’s head as she went over the things she heard again. “Something about a runaway, perhaps?†it was almost as if a little light went on over Vera’s head, shedding light on a situation that had been veiled by other rumours at first. Vera told her about the runaway, who was supposed to marry a nasty man. No more than two days ago, which was the exact day Faerzyne Sedai accepted another Novice into the White Tower, a girl who seemed to be eager to stay there, as if the world outside the White Tower wanted nothing more than to hurt her.

 

“What else?†Nyssa asked, forcing Vera to go over the things she had heard, forcing her to remember. The girl had a quick mind, so it didn’t take her long to figure the bits and pieces of truth out of the pile of rubbish she had heard. In the end they came to the conclusion that there was one Tower Guard who wished to renounce his oaths to marry a local girl, and that the traders that were on their way were in fact summoned to come by the Blue Ajah, to provide with the necessary means for a feast. Since they already paid more than enough for the goods they needed, the gossiping women expected that they could get the rest of the load for fair prices. “I would not be so sure of that though. Traders are greedy even at the best of times. But I am quite sure they will make those matrons believe that they have the best possible bargain on the goods.â€

 

“Well done, Vera.†She said, smiling at the young woman. “You see, you know more of the Great Game than you expected, and you are perhaps better at it than you would have guessed.†The girl showed a lot of potential, though that was something Nyssa would not say out loud just yet. “Now let us get to something a little more entertaining. I am to leave for Mayene soon, no more than a month from now, to oversee some trade negotiations with Illianer traders. I will need someone to be at my side at all times, to be an extra pair of eyes and ears for me. Would you like to be that someone, Vera?â€

 

OOC: I figured we could go buy some dresses for Vera if she says yes ;)

It was during the fifteen, rather rapidly spent minutes that Vera came to understand the true intelligence of Aes Sedai. Nyssa, especially. She had reappeared beside the Gray, a touch exasperated and very dry humoured. Nyssa had taken what she, the Accepted, had dismissed as idle talk and constructed it into such plain stark truth that it embarrassed her. Embarrassed her not because she couldn’t understand the other woman’s mind and its track, rather, she was humiliated that she had not caught onto this herself. It was something she should’ve-could’ve- done. But then, that was the very reason for this meeting was it not? To sharpen her, make her more aware?

 

Or was it?

 

Suspicion, she had accepted early into her Tower years, was something that flowed not only in any Cairhienin’s blood, but also in any bred around Aes Sedai. She had seen it not only in various Accepted, Novices and Aes Sedai, but in a few Tower Guards and civilians as well. It was imprinted onto people, she believed, so deep that it became a part of them. A quality like any other in their personalities. Nyssa Sedai was already confusing her opinions and these were opinions that she had built carefully in the past seventeen years, using up, thusly, almost her whole life. It scared her a little that a person could change her so quickly. The things people could do…..the things a Darkfriend could do, if she was ever claimed…

 

“Would you like to be that someone, Vera?â€

 

Shock perhaps, was not the correct word for the rapid variety of emotions that whirled in and out of Vera as she heard Nyssa’s last words. It was surprise yes, but pleased surprise. Glittering eyes looked straight at the Gray Sister, the smile they contained more genuine that any smile she could’ve actually given her. The only other trip she’d ever gone on while in the Tower was one with Carise. And Ashmalinen, she thought with a small grimace. That had certainly been…eventful, she remembered. An experience like this would be…she was flattered. Honoured, even. At first, she was terribly tempted to jump up and shriek in pleasure, but that of course, was not to be. Nyssa was still an Aes Sedai and she more importantly, was still the white-clad Accepted. Instead, she replied sincerely, as expected. “I’ve never gone as far as Mayene and I’ve especially never played Eyes and Ears for anyone. Not well at any rate,†she added, suddenly remembering the times Shayna had instructed her to go spy on some boy or the other who she had taken a fancy. “But, having said that-†For a moment, she reconsidered. Was she doing the right thing? Was it a trap? Was it…was it…

 

“I would like very much to try.â€

 

~Dresses were always a pretty way of bribing a girl ;)

Of course she would. Had Nyssa herself not squealed in joy when her beloved mentor took her on a trip to Andor? Despite the outcome of that, she looked back on those days with fondness. How innocent she had been. How much had changed. For a moment a shadow passed over Nyssa’s features as she was lost in the past. Then she shook her head and smiled again. Such things should remain where they were. In the past, in her memory. There was no need to mourn what could have been or would have been. Though she wondered… had the fear she felt during that trip set her on the path she had chosen? Or was it something else. She focussed on Vera again. “Well then… let’s make sure you have something more appropriate to wear on our trip.†She looped her arm through Vera’s and guided her over to the seamstress she always visited.

 

As they walked there, Nyssa told Vera about Mayene and it’s relation with the White Tower. “Mayene has always supported, and been supported by the White Tower. It is ruled by the First of Mayene, who has an Aes Sedai advisor. If I’m not mistaken, the current First is male. It is not always so. The First is supported by one or more Seconds. I doubt we will see the First or any Seconds now, but that doesn’t make this any less important to know.†A lesson in politics could never hurt. “The First is said to be a direct descendant of Arthur Hawkwing, and that is a heavy influence on their character. You will find that many of the nobles in Mayene have an arrogance that seems unbecoming of those who own only small estates. Don’t be fooled though. It is this arrogance that has kept Mayene independent for so long.

 

“If you are to negotiate with Mayeners, you must keep two very important things in mind. The first is that I have yet to meet a single person from Mayene who is easily blinded by promises. Promises are empty to them. One does not build a kingdom on promises. They will need concrete proof of your sincerity and your intentions. A Mayener will not be blinded by petty baubles.†They arrived at the seamstress’ shop. “The second thing you have to keep in mind is that, while they support the White Tower openly, they do not trust us as blindly as some borderlanders would. An Aes Sedai will have to negotiate as long and hard as an Illianer lord if they wish to get what they came for.â€

 

“But for now, let us focus on more important things.†Mistress Davina, a fragile old woman came bustling towards them, curtsying on the way. “Nyssa Sedai, what a delight, what a delight! Your dresses were finished a day ago, I would have them sent today, but here you are! I will send a carrier with you back to the Tower, if it pleases you.†Then she noticed Vera. “Oh, what a delightful child!†she exclaimed. Nyssa smiled at the elder woman, who she had known since she was still an Accepted herself. “This is Vera, mistress Davina.†Nyssa introduced them. “Vera is to come with me on a trip to Mayene soon. She will need at least two riding dresses, and as many, or more dresses to wear while we are in Mayene. Make it so, Davina, make it so…†Nyssa sat down in a lush chair in the corner of a store, watching as Davina rounded on Vera, along with a pair of assistants.

 

Ooc: well… have fun with the dresses ;)

“Well then… let’s make sure you have something more appropriate to wear on our trip.â€

 

If Vera had found herself pleasantly surprised at first, what came next made her want to run around the street, even whooping maybe. These words she replayed in her mind, cherishing them well after they were said. She was not very flexible-certainly not in her Accepted dress- but oh, if she could try…a cartwheel or two were the quite the picture of appeal in her head. Arms looped with the Nyssa’s, Vera wore a face of hardly composed glee. And the truth was, she was jubilant. Exultant to a nature that was almost entirely opposite to the mask she had worn before, when presented to the various nuances of Tar Valon. And it really was just the sort of thing that would please her-not exactly the trip itself, but the little joys that came with it. Dresses now, dresses were an appurtenance she had not chanced upon previously. As a Novice, certainly not, and as a girl in Cairhien, the chances had been just as few. How Shayna and her sighed through the apparel of the ladies of the House during ‘spring cleaning’. It had angered her terribly when she would see each dress go to waste. Each exquisite thread was a waste, simply because had the woman bequest with the dress worn it after its season, there would have been much more than just an elephant of silence in the room. There would have been giggles and even the most ladylike snorts possible.

 

Mistress Davina was a feather bodied woman and yet, everything about her contrasted her physical state. Maybe it was the manner that she had bustled in with that brought Vera to like her. Maybe it was the way the other woman could not stop saying the word ‘delight’. Whatever it was ultimately, she warmed to it instantly. Smiling small mouthed and yet, not pouty, Vera found herself ushered away instantly, the last she saw of Nyssa Sedai being nothing more than a glimpse and a smile. Chattering excitedly to both Vera and herself, the seamstress lead her deeper and deeper into the store, and what had seemed a challengingly squeezed little plot had become a maze. A maze of dresses and silk, and pins and needles. And colour too, so much colour. Occasionally, Vera would chance upon a woman or two, bent over a collar here or the borderline work of a sleeve, right there. Most would smile distractedly, that too, only if they noticed her.

 

Vera was awed. Awed and delighted.

 

Awed, that so many women had made this such a cemented part of their lives. Delighted, because soon, she would be subjected to their appraisal. Dresses were going to be made for her. Oh, the joy. The happy happy joy.

 

 

Finally, they came to a stop in a less frenzied corner of the long walkway. A door came into Vera’s vision. Soon, a room came into this vision too. It was a small undecorated room, only lavished with a long mirror, a chair and a desk. Mistress Davina frowned, as if something was missing. Pulling a cord in the room that she had not noticed before, a loud ringing lead its way out into the horizon of what had seemed to be one of the tiniest shops that rested on the particular street. It was only after the third tugging of this rope that a woman appeared. A curvy hipped, pouty lipped woman appeared. Sultry, spoilt, patronizing- these were the words that rose to Vera’s mind as she looked her up and down. Sultry, and Domani too. Looking at her face, she found an expression half condescending half amused canvassed. It too was looking her up and down.

 

“Ah, Aeldra, you are finally here with us. Aeldra, this is Miss Vera. She is going to be travelling to Mayene soon.â€

 

Again that look of sheer complaisance rose on the woman’s face making Vera uncomfortable, unimportant. She had felt like this before.

 

“Go on, measure her up child!â€

 

“She’s here with Nyssa Sedai,†Davina said very slowly, as if the importance of this last sentence would not sink into Aeldra’s head otherwise.

 

Bending down, Aeldra began her task and even while she was in such a position, it was not she who felt small…

 

 

Vera re-emerged from the long aisle of dress and dresses more than content. Idea after idea had been suggested by Mistress Davina and with Vera’s added suggestions, some of the dresses were going to turn out as “quite delightful,†quoting the woman herself. And perhaps as she would admit to herself later that day, quite relieved. Aeldra had actually terrified her. And yet, she had said not one word throughout the long escapade. In Vera’s hands there was a thin folder of parchment and paper; the ideas they had brought together to form what would be her-Vera’s- future garb.

 

Nyssa Sedai sat composed and even as ever in the ergonomically fashioned chair, while the woman beside her seemed half asleep in it’s comforting wait. Smiling curves of excitement and at the same time questioning, Vera handed her the thinly bound papers, saying only,

 

“I think Mistress Davina’s assistant is terrifying, Nyssa Sedai.â€

The chairs Mistress Davina had set up for her patrons were quite comfortable. Nyssa was glad for it, as they made her wait a lit more comfortable. Aside from an offer for tea, Davina’s assistants stayed far away from her. Even in Tar Valon people were wary of Aes Sedai, especially when they just marched into their stored, demanding to be served. Fortunately Davina herself had gotten over that a long time ago. White waiting for Vera and Davina to pick out the fabric, colours, and cut of the dresses she was to buy for the woman, Nyssa pondered on the benefits of having someone with her in Mayene. Though she hadn’t lived there for years, it still felt like home, in a way.

 

She was about to lose some of her well kept patience when Vera reappeared from the back of the store, looking quite content with herself. Nyssa took the offered papers, smiling. She’d look at them later, but she was quite confident that Davina knew what to make of Vera’s request. She laughed when Vera mentioned Davina’s assistant. “My dear, I think it’s safe to say that, while you’re unsettled by her, she is quite terrified of you. If people act differently around you than you would around them, it is because they have not yet had the time to get accustomed to having Aes Sedai around them.â€

 

With the reassurances of Davina that the dresses would be done within a week, Nyssa and Vera left her store, and made their way back to the White Tower. “I do hope you feel this afternoon has been constructive, Vera.†Nyssa said. “I enjoyed your company a great deal, and I shall be looking forward to our trip to Mayene. Perhaps it is a good idea to warn your teachers about your absence. We will be leaving in three weeks.†Nyssa smiled slightly, knowing full well that some of Vera’s teachers would object. Now was the perfect time for an Ajah to latch onto a promising young woman, and here Nyssa was, preparing to take Vera on a trip that would last several months. She was quite sure that Phaedra would approve.