Darkness began to settle over Ilian and the Perfumed Quarters and the setting sun reflected beautifully from the stinking canals and the spotlessly clean windows of three buildings along a walled courtyard. The whole complex stood out amidst its neighbours since it was in middle of a warehouse area and all the buildings and the wall were built of stone. Even without the weapon racks underneath the eaves of the buildings and on the large porch of the largest of the three buildings at the back half of the yard, anyone could have been able to deduce that it was the quarters of a militia. There were no visible guards posted since you couldn't enter the yard without notice but men lounged at the porch dicing and playing cards.

 

Deeper in the house was the apartment of the commander of the militia and his family. It was obvious that a woman had at least decorated the place since there were fabrics hanging from the walls covering the cold stone. They weren't like the finely woven tapestries you could find at noble houses but they were good work and clearly chosen with good eye since they matched each others well. The carpets were not noble stuff either but they were warm and fitted the rest of the decorations and the simple furnitures were balanced by plush pillows. The sizeable sitting room rang with laughter as two toddlers were chased by the servant of the family. The happy trio vanished through one of the five doorways leading away from the sitting room and after loud peals of delighted protestations revealing that the twins had gotten caught, they began to play something quieter.

 

Enjoying the relative silence Arette curled even closer to Con on the sofa and kissed his scarred cheek. They had been married for three months already but it still felt like the first day. She enjoyed throughoutly the privacy and space of their own home and even if the apartment had its small flaws, Con and the men had built it for them and it was truly their place. Even Fia wasn't causing any problems anymore and Arette was proud of her progress. But Light if she herself had been as annoying in the start... Willamina must have wanted to throttle her many times. Thinking the old wisdom hurt and she didn't want to spoil her mood so she spoke lightly. "Well master Stavrosi, how has your day been?" Unfortunately the situation in the city hadn't gotten any better so Con replied honestly. Yet another shipful of mercenaries had arrived into the city and flocked under the Queen's banner and they were trickling daily to the city by land too. Worrying news indeed with the number of Companions and the troops she already had. The worst part was that they didn't keep up the order in the town, quite the contrary. They were especially bad in the Perfumed Quarters since the nobles didn't care a whiff what happened there. The death of Philip, Con's brother, five months ago had been just one of many incidents.

 

But there were always ways and Con and the former Children of the Light had begun to patrol the Quarters to keep it safe. They were too few to be everywhere however and after few more deaths, local young men had begun to join the... well, militia was what it had become to be called. The training yard and living quarters were a living testament of the unity and will of the people of the Perfumed Quarters. Many voluntary hands had helped to take down the warehouse on the spot that had been near collapsing and the stones had been gathered from Light knew where. Men had laboured beside their daily jobs alongside Con and his men to put it all together. Arette wondered if the people at the higher echelons of the city even knew how organized the Perfumed Quarters had become and how popular the militia was. Today one young man had died again despite their best efforts and even if he had been avenged, it would be a slim console to his widow and the orphans he left behind. There was nothing you could say to that, so Arette could just offer her presence. At least Con had gotten some of it out of himself, maybe it would help.

 

Their moment was interrupted by a knock at the door and with a sigh Arette broke away from the embrace. She and Con had an unspoken agreement that late evenings were family time but in recent weeks there had been too many nights when he had been called to handle some emergency. She prayed that this wasn't one of those days again as she opened the door to reveal one of the former Children, Micah. Nodding respectfully to Arette he announced that there was a party of men who desired to speak with the commander of the militia, seemingly soldiers themselves too. She and Con exchanged a quiet look and Arette went to tell Fia to keep company to Rana and Cina while she and Con had some matters to attend to. The girl had the nerve to actually protest. Light, she liked her but this was not the time to be stubborn. Arette removed her slipper and shook it at her and Fia was wisely quiet after that. She could still remember the last time the slipper had been required and the muscle training had given unpleasent force to Arette's arm. Stooping a quick kiss on the brows of her precious girls, Arette hurried to join Con in the large dining room where they would receive the guests who ever they were. She was already mentally going through the weaves she might have to resort to.

 

Micah had alerted the former Children staying at the main house and there was ten of them present standing at readiness as the party of the strangers was ushered inside. Arette studied them carefully but they wore clothes appropriate for the Quarters and there were no visible insignias. She could tell the home countries of the most of them by their looks but she was none of the wiser of their identities or motives. Finally Con spoke. "I do be Con Stavros, what do be meriting this visit?" She couldn't help the small proud smile that curved her lips but she never took her eyes off the group. The first sign of offense and this could all blow up.

He watched warily on all sides as the small group moved down the streets of the Perfumed Quarter. Had he not been wrapped up in the void, Arath would have felt nervous. Being assigned to survey the city had been easy, something his early life on the streets of Caemlyn had prepared him for. But approaching the leaders of this resistance faction . . . he didn't feel comfortable putting himself into a potentially dangerous situation.

 

Arath shook his head, chiding himself softly. He and his Asha'man brethren were potentially dangerous situations. But oddly enough it was something one became accustomed to. Being in a camp of soldiers who weren't specifically loyal to the Lord Dragon was not something he was accustomed to.

 

They travelled swiftly down the awful smelling 'Perfumed Quarter' streets, and soon arrived. Arath banged the knocker on the heavy wooden gate and waited. Seconds later a small window panel was opened and a man looked out at them, questioning silently. "We're here to see your commander," Arath said cooly. "It is extremely important." The man said nothing, staring at him for a moment, then turned and motioned to someone else whom Arath couldn't see. With nothing left to be done, Arath took a step back from the gate and waited. A minute later the gate swung open. "Commander Stavros will see you," said the man, motioning them through.

 

As they approached the small building at the back of the complex, Arath took note of the relaxed attitude of the place. There didn’t seem to be any sentries posted, though everyone clearly had quick access to a weapon. They passed a few men casting dice, playing cards, and casually enjoying their evening. Some of these men glanced at them for a moment before returning to their game, but other than that nobody seemed to take much notice of them. He supposed that so many outside mercenaries had passed through the city in the last months that a handful more was no great cause for attention.

 

Moments later they were permitted to pass through the doors of the back building. The scene inside was far less relaxed than it was outside, which seemed a little ironic to Arath. This place felt and looked more like a family home than a milita commanders quarters. A man and woman stood side by side, watching them, accompanied by almost a dozen obviously seasoned soldiers. All parties studied the others for a moment, making automatic appraisal of their situation. Finally the man spoke to them. "I do be Con Stavros, what do be meriting this visit?"

 

After a quick glance at the others, Arath took a step forward and gave a slight bow. “Commander Stavros, we represent the armies of the Lord Dragon. I am Asha’man Arath Faringal of the Black Tower.” Spreading his hands wide in a peaceful gesture, he added, “We are here to help you bring peace to the city.” He saw some of the soldiers stiffen at his words, and momentarily questioned the wisdom of such a direct approach to this. But the die was cast, they had to continue.

Carnhain surveyed the city, his eyes skipping over extravagant buildings and other man-made wonders that, a year ago, would have had him gaping. The blonde man had changed much in a year. A year had seen him masquerading through Caemlyn after Miria, grappling with Kedyn at Emond’s Field, trying to take his life, escaping the ruins of Lugard and most recently being brought to the very verge of death by his own commander. He still bore the marks of that fight; his nose was certainly more crooked and once again there were bandages wrapped around his middle, protecting what would have been a gaping hole is not for the stitches keeping his innards in while it healed.

 

A year of change, indeed. He looked to the three people walking with him through the crowed streets of Illian proper. Kedyn, his foster-brother, and he had been drawn even closer in the past year through their struggle at Emond’s Field and the forgiveness and grace the former Queen’s Guard had given him afterwards. Miria strode by his side, holding his hand. Immediately his face darkened while his injured insides twisted with guilt. Love Kedyn she did, but there was no love lost between them.

 

Last, his eyes rested on Jatasha who walked a few strides ahead of him. Her name and confusion had very much become synonymous in his head. Since she had come to the Citadel, the two of them had become close, though there was a certain awkwardness that kept him somewhat aloof and distant around her. They had spent a night together after he had saved her from a group of thugs and even after all this time he was unsure of where that put them.

 

However, he had only a minute to glance at his companions. They were now entering the Perfumed Quarter of Illian and from the tales Carnhain had heard, he ought to be on his guard. Everyone was dressed so as to raise as little suspicion as possible. Even the three Asha’man with them had taken civilian garb; their black coats and pins would have painted a target the size of the Queen’s Palace on them.

 

As they entered the first street of this, the poorest section of the city, the cavalryman could barely keep from gagging at the stench emanating from the canals. He chanced a look, immediately regretting it as his stomach heaved out his lunch. The partly digested chunks of food joined the already floating clumps of unidentifiable- which was certainly for the better- muck. He gave his companions’ inquisitive glances a weak grin before wiping his mouth and continuing on.

 

Walking the streets, he was shocked at the destitution in which these people lived. Houses were so dilapidated, they were practically crumbing before his very eyes. Each time he saw a small child, nursing at its mother’s breast as she sat on the curb, begging or else selling her body, he fought back tears. He chanced a glance at Jatasha, his mind swirling over what her life must have been like before he had met her. How could she have survived on these streets? Light! Even his private hell was nothing to what these people were forced to live their entire lives in, with absolutely no hope of climbing above as he had done by joining the Band.

 

Finally, they arrived at a compound that seemed in far better condition than any other building Carnhain had seen yet in the Perfumed Quarters. Men bearing weapons and hard faces were constantly moving in and out of the courtyard. Was this the militia group the Dragon had ordered them meet with? It certainly didn’t look like much, but then again, Carnhain’s basis for comparison was limited to the Citadel and the palaces of Caemlyn, Cairhien and Lugard.

 

Upon entering the building, Carnhain was once again surprised at the contrast between the Band and this place. While there were a few Banders who did have families and children, this place was filled with the laughter of the children running through the halls. It was almost a contradiction to see children laughing and playing, running around the legs of their father’s who wore grim masks and held swords as if they might have need of them in short order.

 

The blonde Lieutenant had to reign in the urge to grasp his sword hilt in answer to their challenging stares. However, he was not so uneducated that he did not know it would bring the entire garrison here down on their group. Burn him, he would not be the cause if the Dragon bloody Reborn’s plan burst into flames!

 

At this point, Carnhain took the lead, having the highest rank out of the Banders. He was led to a room in the back, which had the feeling of a family sitting room rather than a commander’s office. A man and woman stood before them and Carnhain was shocked that, upon closer inspection, the woman’s face was that of an Aes Sedai! He recognized the ageless face from those he had seen in Lugard!

 

Carnhain silently thanked Rowul for his lessons in etiquette and to the commander he gave a crisp salute- something Merhin would have killed him for- and to the Aes Sedai, a bow. The introduced himself as Con Stavros and Asha’man Arath, the name was a completely new revelation to the Banders, pleaded their case.

 

“The Dragon, Lord Jarron al’Tannin,” Carnhain began, right on the heels of Arath’s last words ”is worried over the Queen’s actions here in Illian and the injustices done amongst the Illianers. I am Lieutenant Carnhain Stromblade and my companions are Sergeant Kedyn Alastair, Private Miria Landen and...” his mind drew a blank at how to introduce Jatasha, somehow “my friend, who is a prostitute” just didn’t cut it. His mind scrambled, finally drawing on her heritage. “...Jatasha Danica, a native of the city.” ‘Nice save.’ “We represent the Band of the Red Hand, which, along with the Black Tower, has been sent to you to both gather information about the situation here and ask for your aid in liberating the city.”

 

Carnhain went silent, praying to the Light that he hadn’t said anything wrong and botched it. Blood and ashes, why had they sent him?

 

 

Lt. Carnhain Stromblade

Band of the Red Hand

She was past this. She was past it all. Though she said the same thing ever time she turned her head, it didn't stick. No matter how hard she tried not to see the familiar sights of the Perfumed Quarter, it was still home. Part of her wished she had stayed back with the others, with the Band where she was safe and protected from the life she had once known, but she had promised herself that she would find a way to be something good within the Band. They had taken her in when no one else had. No one manhandled her that they knew of and she demanded good coin for the odd soul that did now. If she was mistreated she had people that would protect her. If they needed someone in her native city to help, she would be that.

 

Still, she found herself stopped in front of an alley as she saw a young woman, barely more than a girl really, with a familiar stance and look in her eye. She turned away quickly to keep from recognizing a kindred soul. She wasn't the first child to have been put on the streets to earn their way through the world in Illian, though she had been among the youngest, forced into every act imaginable when she was barely 12. She took a deep breath as she followed after the others, trying not to see her own desparate eyes in the other girl's face.

 

She picked up her pace, knowing where she was going far better than her companions. In fact if she looked close enough, there were faces she knew, as she passed by. 2 years gone from the Perfumed Quarter and there was little change. A new girl in the alley, a different gang on the corner, but the world of her childhood hadn't changed.

 

She walked past Carnhain and saw the look on his face, realized what had happened to him, she shook her head, feeling guilty that she hadn't anticipated her friend's need. She knew what life was like here. While she would never be able to walk into the life he had lived before she knew him, he was walking straight into hers and it wasn't a pretty sight. She spared him a look and gave him a small smile before getting lost in thought again.

 

Carnhain. He was a puzzle to her. Sex she could understand, and the dark desires than coursed through a man's blood, but he was completely different. She looked over her shoulder again. It was safer to focus on him. Safer than remembering her days on these streets, the nights in the house not far from where they stood, a place of murder then and now.

 

Carnhain who had saved her from thugs and had protected the unknown girl. Carnhain who had taken her as a lover, who she had chosen to sleep with for nothing more than to be close to him. How long had it been since she had taken a lover, not a customer? If she had ever had tears for such a thing, she might have shed them for such thoughts. Had she ever taken another lover? If she had, she couldn't remember, as she stood with the stench of her youth surrounding her.

 

A familiar turn and they were at their destination, though she didn't remember walking all the way there. Carnhain took the lead as they approached.

 

She knew the place and it's inhabitants by name and a few by sight. They were a large family and Jatasha had run with members of the Stavrosi clan from time to time though she doubted any of them would remember her well enough to name. She was just another whore from the streets after all.

 

As they entered she noticed the kids roaming through the rooms, noticed the way they were watched and how the men of weapons reacted to their presence. She hated having a weapon pointed at her, but at least this time there was nothing being forced from her, at least yet. Light, she hoped it didn't come to that. She might still be new to the Band but they protected each other. She looked at Carnhain and wished she would have thought to warn them. If anyone remembered the whore from the street, they just might decide to give a little of the attention she had always received there. She'd whore herself out even to the black coated Asha'man if it meant keeping those with her safe. Light, she should have said something to Carnhain.

 

And yet, some of the tension seemed to leave the room as Carnhain began to speak. A common cause to join them all under helped. She smiled slightly as Carnhain introduced their companions, her own name follwoed be a slight pause as if he didn't know how to explain her presence there. She still didn't know and yet, if the Band needed her, she'd be where she could be of use. Even if it was in the bloody alleys of Illian, reliving her nightmares.

 

Jatasha Danica

The group that was admitted into their home was... out of place. They wore clothing similar to those around them, rough hewn and of poor quality, they even to their credit had the look of those who worked on the docks, and as they came closer likewise smelled the same. But they held themselves differently, their colouring was also different. His first thought was that they might be mercaneries, no doubt the thoughts of his men who had fanned out around them with their weapons at the ready. They would allow people to seek shelter, but he doubted that was why they were there.

 

The story they told was one that instantly made Con suspicious, they represented the Dragon? One introduced himself as Asha'man Arath Faringal, the other was a Lieutenant Carnhain from an initially unidentified company who proceeded to introduce his companions. Out of all the names, Jatasha Danica's was the only one he knew and that was because of the incident after Philip's death. Her last name was the trigger and it made him look at her a little closer than the others. She looked Illianer, but he had been gone during the years she had lived in Illian, he had never had any chance of meeting her. Even if she was though, that was something to be wary of. Maybe she was in the Queen's employ.

 

"I'm sorry, but that do be quite a wild tale. Besides, we do be loyal to the Queen here and no be in need of liberating." A lie, but also the truth at the same time though these people wouldn't know what truth he spoke. He wasn't about to declare his animosity towards the woman who wore the Laurel Crown to people who had just walked into his home and told him they served the Dragon. For all he knew, and perhaps likely with the trouble his militia had been causing with mercaneries and the like in the Perfumed Quarter, they could be agents of the Queen here to get him to utter treason to justify an attack.

 

Before he could say more, new people filtered into the room, armed with staves and clubs. Militia, and with them Nic. Holding a hand up to his elder brother to let him know that everything was alright, Con shook his head at the man. "Its do be alright, these people do be mistaking us for troublemakers. The militia do be the Queen's men."

 

While Nic nodded as he understood he had walked in on something that he might not want to be present at, Menalos was prodding Tyrian who had stepped away from the others. "Tash, it be you? What do you be doing with these strangers? Where did you be going? Cilia and Penelope did be trying to find you as did we."

 

Jatasha's eyes had remained on the man before them until she heard a familiar voice. She looked over at the sound of her name to find a face she hadn't expected to see. She gave a small smile for Tyrian and Menalos even though she felt the eyes of the others on her. "I did be getting myself away from here. When my Da be passing, there really no be a reason for me to be staying." She didn't know how much of her father's abuse was known on the streets, or that he had been the one to put her there to whoring in the first place, but she thought they would understand.

 

Con decided not to interrupt, so Nic's sons knew her that was something. The silence on the part of everyone else was something that Tyrian took advantage of as he responded. "That no be true, we would be taking you in if you'd been wanting to. Penelope and Celia did be asking for you and did be having us and others looking. You did be just disappearing from the city altogether."

 

"I no be meaning to worry anyone." Jatasha said, surprise clear in her voice as she looked at the two boys before her. "Tell Penelope and Celia..." She paused. Tell them what? That at least she was a safe whore now? "I do be with better people now." She said softly. She refrained from looking back at the others but she wondered how many questions she would have to answer later for this. "I did no be wanting to be living my life with his memory over me. You do be understanding that, no?" She asked of them.

 

"I suppose, but..." Smiling slightly as Tyrian seemed to realise where he was, Con waited for him to step back before he started speaking again. "Well then, Jatasha, perhaps you do be able to answer a question for me since my kinsmen do be knowing you. Where did you be going?"

 

Jatasha looked up from the man before and over at Con. Even more aware of the eyes than she had been before, she took a deep breath. She knew she should have just stayed quiet and not talked, but she didn't have much of a choice now. She looked at Carnhain quickly, then back at Con. "I did go to find my mother's people." She said quietly. "It was not so easy as I did think it would be and I wandered for a while. The road was not always good, but these did find me and take me in." She looked at Carnhain then and smiled. "Carnhain did protect me against bandits when he no did know me. They do be good people."

 

Con found himself wavering a little, but he decided to cling to his resolve. There was too much to be lost and until he knew these people better he couldn't afford to let anything slide. Not that the bearer of the Laurel Crown would probably need such a thing the more he thought about it, but he was also wary of the Dragon. He brought a great deal of harm along with his good, and if there was any gain to be had from this they couldn't simply comply and reveal their weak position. But what to say...

 

 

Con Stavros

Head of the Militia

 

Jatasha Danica

Band of the Red Hand

Arath eyes roamed the room as the Illianers spoke, gauging the reactions of all present. Most of the soldiers stood stone-faced, hiding all emotion and making it difficult to judge the situation. He took particular note of the woman at Stavros' side though. That face ... he couldn't put an age to her. Was she Aes Sedai? He had never yet met one, even at Dumai's Wells. But this woman seemed to fit all descriptions. Arath momentarily bit his lip in concern. This situation might prove to be more dangerous than they had thought. If things deteriorated here, she would have to go down first.

 

Taking a deep breath, Arath pushed the thoughts from his mind. Focusing on the possible negative outcomes never really did much good. Everything would go well. It had to. It just had to be handled carefully. Arath listened to the Jatasha as she addressed Con, who fell silent in thought for a moment. Against his better judgement, he opened his mouth to speak again. "Master Stavros, you say you are the Queen's man. Completely loyal to her. And yet, I can't help but notice that you have different agendas. She appears to be gearing for war, letting the city fall into chaos. You try to maintain order, in the Perfumed Quarter of all places, and are achieving it. I would think that loyalties should lie with those who deserve them. The people of Illian, whom you fight to protect.

 

"And now we offer you the assistance of the Dragon Reborn. Surely you were raised on the stories of him. What he did long ago. What he will do. In my nineteen years, I know I've heard them. And like most others, you prayed that it wouldn't happen in your lifetime, or that of your children. I did. And yet, here we are, representatives of the Dragon, standing in your home. From my perspective, you should find comfort in this. He wishes to save Illian, not destroy it. You have heard of the Asha'man, haven't you?" The question was directed to Con, but his gaze was on the woman at his side. "If it were the wishes of the Dragon to destroy this city, the three of us could grind it to dust." To ephasize the point, Arath slowly extended his hand forward, palm up. Touching the source lightly, he wove fire. A single flame flared into life above his palm. He only held it for a moment before letting the flame vainsh and dropping his hand to his side. "I am not threatening you in any way commander. But we do ask for your help in saving the lives of the people of Illian."

 

Arath looked around at all of the faces in the room. Every eye was fixed on him. Some looks were calculating, others angry, a few terrified. He hoped he had not damaged their efforts with his little example. His last words still hanging in the air, he took a half step backward. Taking a deep breath and releasing it slowly, he closed his mouth and waited. He was no diplomat.

OOC: There are only 2 children in the whole militia quarters and they are well kept out of sight. No need to edit previous posts or anything, just so you know :) My apologies for not communicating the fact well enough.

 

IC:

 

Arette was fairly certain that most of the men recognised her to be an Aes Sedai but only one of them revealed it in any way. He bowed to her respectfully and she returned the gesture with a regal nod. She hadn't needed to resort to the controlled and unemotional facade for over two years but after two centuries of practice she could still pull the mask on without an effort. Only slight widening of eyes revealed surprise and shock when the first man to speak claimed to be an Asha'man. She pressed the given name well to mind: Arath Faringail. So Jarron al'Tanin had finally taken note of Illian. Light only knew what kind of instructions he had given to his blackcoats if these really were Asha'man and not something else. How many male channelers did they have in the city already and if they really were Asha'man, had they been noticed already?

 

The man who had greeted her spoke next; Carnhain Stormblade, another name to remember. So, this was just a scouting group, here to gather information. They had to have larger numbers ready to be called through Traveling. The Band of the Red Hand tugged her memory... They had been the defenders of Tarwin's Gap a few years ago and nearly all of them had died. The survivors had taken the name and now they were seemingly allied with the Dragon. Or so they claimed. It was horrible to be so unable to trust anyone anymore but too much had happened to her to be anything but paranoid. The Forsaken loose, the existance of Black Ajah, the kidnap of Telcia's children, Aginor wanting her girls, Rasputin, Willamina's allegiance...

 

Con finally broke his silence and he was clearly even more wary than she. She did bit the inside of her lip when he declared them the Queen's followers. They were bound to take it the wrong way if they really were who they claimed to be. They obviously didn't know what really was going on here. If only she would have been able to ask some questions about Jarron al'Tanin to verify their story. She didn't want to take a very active role anyway because Con was in command here and she had no desire to undermine his authority. The last thing for these people to think was that she was the one pulling the strings. Not anymore, she was no longer the Keeper of the Chronicles and he the Commander of the Tower Guard.

 

Nic and other militiamen entered and the situation tensed with even more men on their side. Con tried to ease things but again his true statement would be understood so wrong if these people really had no knowledge of the real state of affairs. It seemed that Con's nephews recognized the only woman in the company. Arette listened to them and this Jatasha chat about her recent doings and whereabouts as if they weren't in middle of important negotiations. She wondered why Con allowed it but it seemed that it was a way for him to get assurances of this party and their identity or at least good intentions. Of course she could be a darkfriend and her every word a lie.

 

Faringail spoke again and she studied him hard for signs of lie and either he was very good at dissimulating or then telling the truth. Her mouth quirked into a mirthless smile at his comment about the Dragon Reborn. The Black Tower seemed to have done its share of indoctrination and succeeded with this man. Arath was directing his words to Con but he eyed her and Arette met his gaze levelly and unwaveringly. She actually let out a half-amused, half-disbelieving snort at his incredible claim of what the three of them could do. Men! They often had inflated egos and ideas of what they could do but she could not believe that only three channelers would be capable of such a feat as destroying an entire city unless they were the strenght of a Forsaken or the Dragon Reborn himself. He had to be a bit touched by the madness already and the thought shot a sense of nausea in her belly. The flame the man conjured above his palm caused quite a stir in the people around them but he released Saidin thankfully quickly. And it had likely been only a small enough amount that it couldn't be detected very far if Saidin worked at all like Saidar. This was getting out of hand and she just could not remain silent any longer.

 

"Your negotiation strategy is quite interesting, Master Faringail", she stated wryly. "I recommend you to steer clear of Saidin in this city unless your life depends on it. If you really are here to gather intelligence as you claim, there are some things you are clearly not aware of. As for your question about the Dragon Reborn, I am certain that we all have heard the stories. Only the most told ones tend to be the ones where he killed his family after wreaking much havoc in his madness. Luckily for the world the new incarnation, the young horseherder, is not quite there yet. It would be wise to keep the notions of incineration to yourself in the future. If you do it, you do it and if you don't, no one likes to be threatened by such things. Stick often doesn't work but honesty might. Is there actually a plan for this grand liberation you keep mentioning?"

 

As if having waited for her calm lecture to end, another woman entered the scene and Arette drew an exasperated breath. She would have a session with this child about obedience once this was over. Lifting her leg, she picked up her slipper of all things and patted it to her palm while shotting a meaningful glance toward the newcomer. The woman blanched slightly but squared her shoulders. Obviously Fia was going to have her show and pay the price later. But if she hadn't at least closed the door after her that would keep Cina and Rana safe and away from these people, she would truly regret the day her mother first smiled at her father.

Princess Sofia Stepaneos, Daughter Heir to the Laurel Crown, was far from impressed as she was practically shoved out the door to 'watch' the twins. Raising a finger with a retort that was quickly silenced by the witches bloody slipper "Fia" sulked in the corridor with Cina and Rana to each side of her. She looked longingly at the door after a momentary sigh that released her frustration. How was she suppose to get home when she could not even be part of it? She was no child!

 

"Come." She took the twins hands as they looked up at her and then followed easily. "Lets get you back to the nursery, hm?" She smiled down at them as she forced the unsettling feeling inside of her. She just had to get back in that room!! But of course she was not going to be the fool and allow Arette Sedai's children stay in danger. Her mind grew foul as she dwelled more on Arette's actions, ignoring the twins protests as they would rather go play in the garden instead of the nursery. Glowering she set up Cina with her dolls and Rana with a brightly coloured picture book, closing the door and locking it behind her Fia practically stomped back through the corridor. Arette's poor conduct and her courtesy had Fia in a right foul temper as it was rare she would be sent away in the beginning. Bracing her palms on the door Fia pushed hard as they swung open to reveal a room of men that looked no more familiar to her than Master Con had on their first meeting.

 

And of course that Aes Sedai had to pull off that stupid slipper...

 

Ignoring the look that Arette warned her with she moved into the room purposefully and surprisingly graceful despite her foul temperament. Looking down at the others in the room, Fia spoke calmly but the underlining anger was still there for the ears that could pick it up. "Do be forgiving my intrusion gentlemen, but..." She turned on Arette, "How dare you be dismissing me like some common serving girl! If there do be something of importance that be needing to be discussed then I will be in attendance." Fia's eyes glanced back at Arette and Con. They were far impressed. With a smug look in her smile she stood her ground with her hands on her hips, trying her best not to look at the slipper that was taping in Arette's hands.

 

 

 

Princess Sofia

The Wheel was a fickle creature, and now was such a time where it proved itself so. Of course she could not do as she was told, nevermind that it was for her own protection. No, Sofia needed to storm into the room and start giving demands like the princess she was. Nevermind that the people visiting might not be who they said they were, or that there could be a darkfriend hiding amongst them, or that... that... Con's fists were clenching so tightly that he had to hide them behind his back and his face could have been compared to a cliff face. He hadn't lost his temper before with the girl, but she had truly managed it now. "I do be sorry, this do be one of my cousins, Fia. She occasionally be forgetting herself. Would you be seeing her out Arette so we may be continuing our discussion with this Asha'man and his fellows from the Band of the Red Hand in private?"

 

Not wanting to cause a scene, Arette looked at Con for a cue. She was slightly startled at the clear display of strained temper. Con was almost always in control of himself but it seemed that Philip's death had loosened something in him. Arette nodded in acquiscence and took a firm hold of Fia's elbow and began to guide her to the door. She really hoped that the woman would come peacefully since she didn't want to resort to channeling over something like this. It was a bad thing from Con to have revealed who the guests were. He seemed to believe it now but Fia hadn't needed to know it since it would only strengthen her stubborn idea of sticking around. And if he believed them, maybe she really should be around. Maybe after a good smacking that would take most of the hot air out of her or she would do or say something stupid.

 

Carnhain watched and listened as everything seemed to be beyond his control. Light, why had the Commander made Jatasha come along? It seemed now like she might be proving her worth, but he wasn’t blind either and he had noticed her uneasiness on the streets. He might not know exactly what was going on between the two of them but he did not want her hurt.

 

Despite leading the group of Banders, Carnhain knew very little of what exactly the Dragon wanted them to do. “Liberate the city” was an awfully broad topic and no one had ever graced him with specifics so Arath’s information was completely new. By the end of the speech, the young man was beginning to figure that between Jatasha’s presence and Arath’s speech, the Can couldn’t possibly say no.

 

Which of course only proved how naive he was when the Aes Sedai spoke up, laying all Carnhain’s hopes in the ashes. Damnit! How in the Light were they going to save the interview now? He was just tottering on the edge of a last desperate plea when a young woman, younger than he, entered creating a stir amongst Con, the Aes Sedai and the gathered militia. Her attitude towards Con and her obvious fear of the Aes Sedai’s slipper had Carnhain completely bewildered.

 

“If I may be so bold,” said Carnhain trying to make himself noticed in the commotion “May I ask as to what exactly is going on? And for what reason does the young woman believe that she deserved to be in attendance? Cousin or not, Commander Stavros, certainly the woman would not make a demand for absolutely no reason. Who is she?"

 

"You no be being so bold." Looking sharply at Lieutenant Carnhain, Con continued. "She simply do be forgetting her place at times, and no be remembering to be silent when others do be speaking." Light, let her take the hint.

 

 

Con, Arette & Cairnhain

"Oh do be no saying that!" She snapped as the pain in her arm increased by the tighter squeeze of Arette's hand. If she let Arette pull her into the corridor light only knew how much worse the verbal punishment, and physical, would be. She had no inclination of that happening. "Who I am be no difference to you. All you be needing to know is that I be one of the Court in service to the Crown. I no be liking how I be dismissed when I be of great use to you." She looked to the other men in the room with careful eyes, jerking her arm out of Arette's grasp and giving her a look that she would not tolerate her actions. "And there be no need for removing me by force."

 

She walked carefully but not too closely to the man that inquired her name, looking over him carefully. He was young, and able, there was no doubt in that but like with Arette Sedai she had no love of the One Power, although admittingly saw the use in it. "You no be Illian. Black Tower than? What use could you be to my place of home? You can no beat the Princess there. No without Master Con's help and 'e without yours."

 

Sofia paused carefully as the others stood silently for a moment. Clearly her outburst was unexpected, and possibly unwanted but she was not going to give them the option of throwing her out now. Not when she already had a foot in the door. "What do you be wanting with Illian, why help? What news do you bring of home?" There was almost a wishful sadness to her tone at her last question, but the hard inquiring look never changed, demanding to know everyting and would not leave with her hands empty.

 

 

 

Princess Sofia

Fifi was a fool for failing to see why Arette and Con had kept her away from these people. The girl had no sense of self-preservation and not much sense either and for the sake of Illian and all of its people the two of them had the sorry task of trying to imprint them both on her. They might have even fetched her once they would have mde certain that it was safe and that their goals would indeed be in alliance. After Fia shook off her grip and walked away, there was no use of trying to exit her anymore. She wanted to have some of her dignity left after all and she tried to appear as if it had been her idea all along. Aes Sedai had the image that they were supposedly never wrong and could not fail in a task. She kept a close eye on Arith's reactions to the stone-headed child standing so close to her. He might be stronger than her in the One Power, men were said to be, so she might be unable to Shield him but she would at least have to try.

 

Fia's cover story had some merit except that no cousin from the poor Perfumed Quarters would ever be allowed to serve in the Palace. Not the way things were now. Of course it could be taken as a figurative speech. She very much wanted to hear the question to Fifi's first question but doubted that these people could help with the second one. They had come to the militia for information and likely weren't aware of what was really going on in the palace. Non-chalantly she walked to Con and laid a hand on his neck to the juncture of shoulders and pressed hard to relax the muscles. His wits were needed about. In the old days she wouldn't have anything of the like, touching him in public and especially in front of important guests and she even now she couldn't help the softening of her posture and appearance when she looked at him. But if they hadn't already noticed the wedding ring on her finger, it was quite the same to her what they made of it.

 

"Fifi seems to be staying, Con", she murmured softly to only his ears. "We will deal with her later." With that she turned to the embassy and demanded an answer to hers and Fia's question with her eyes. They had to hear the plan before they could commit to it even if the presence of additional men and channelers - even potentially mad ones - was quite the gift from the Creator. Militia alone could not win against the Queen's mercenaries and what else she had in her command.

 

Carnhain said his piece next and she stole a quick glance at Con to see his reaction. Light but these people really were no diplomats. Nor were they, but this was a far too important deal to be fumbled by tempers and inexperience.

The tirade took Carnhain completely by surprise. So much so he was nearly forced back a few steps as the young woman surveyed him, judging him. Light blind her! She had no right to judge him! Too often he had been judged and found wanting. No longer was he the pathetic inn slave he had been, he had risen in the world and he was their equal. Equal! Damn her, there was nothing wrong in him... He suppressed dark memories and truths.

 

“For one,” he started coldly “I am neither Illianer nor from the Black Tower. I am from the Band of the Red Hand which, though aligned with Lord al’Tanin, still keeps much of its former freedoms. We have always been there if we deem a cause worthy and we are here now because we fell Illian could use our help. We ask for nothing in return except your aid in returning this city to order, which is in your own bloody interests!”

 

Carnhain took a moment’s pause to reel his anger back under control and forced his arm down from where he had been nearly poking her with a finger to emphasise his points. Bloody, flaming nobility!

 

“As for your home, the Queen has been gathering mercenaries under her banner for months and with Tear next door, of course the Lord Dragon wants the threat dealt with. The mercenaries have taken to the streets, doing as the please while the nobility turn a blind eye. Neither the Dragon, Band nor Black Tower will stand for this injustice and we are here to lend out services so Illian can throw off her oppressor.”

 

Blood and ashes, he was treading a thin line here. He could not afford to anger the commander. The young woman spoke true, neither could accomplish their goal without the other’s aid and Carnhain desperately hoped Con would see the sense in that.

 

 

Lt. Carnhain Stromblade

Band of the Red Hand

Arath wasn't sure what to think anymore. This girl just walked in a defied the Aes Sedai, and they claimed she was unimportant? Who was she? The stories didn't add up. A cousin from the Perfumed Quarter and a member of the court? A noble? No ... They were being lied to. And he was not going to take anymore of it.

 

"Enough of this!" he said, voice raised and taking a step forward. "I don't believe any of you. Perhaps this was a mistake. We came to you, to help YOUR city, and you won't be forthcoming on the identity of a girl with quite an impressive range of occupations. Cousin, noble, servant ... which is it? A 'stick' may not work Aes Sedai, but you are the last person who will speak to me of honesty. Why are you even here? Aes Sedai don't live in run down slums of cities so far away from Tar Valon, flaunting wedding rings while abandoning serpent rings. For not being able to lie you certainly are good at hiding the truth. You want to know our plan? We have none. Plans require people we can trust. We'll speak of plans once we reach that."

 

Arath dropped his head and closed his eyes, drawing a deep breath. Anger wouldn't solve this. At this point nothing might. Voice calm and very low, he continued.

 

"Look. We have been honest and direct from the beginning. More so than you have at least. We are here, because under its current leadership this country is viewed as a threat to the Dragon. Surely you believe that he should live to see the last battle? Despite what you may think of him and the rest of us, we are human. Killing other people is not something we enjoy. Illian needs to be dealt with, but we want it done with as little death as possible. Too many died in Cairhein, in Andor, at Duami's Wells ..." He trailed off for a moment as his few memories of that last battle rushed to his mind. "But perhaps we were wrong. Maybe a bloody conquering is what you want for Illian? I don't, but Light knows we're running out of options."

 

"Now should we leave, or would you like to tell us the truth?"

Kedyn was silently fuming as he stood next to Carnhain. For the past few weeks he had been living in the city, calculating what it would be like if the Band would need to intervene, or more for the eventual intervention. But the way Carnhain and Arath wer handling this meeting was completely against how he thought it whould go, instead of being tact..probing first before revealing everything that they had to offer, everything they were, they had simply laid there cards on the table and now were only going to get what the men in front of them decided to give them.

 

His eyes were constantly fluttering around the room, taking in every person, weighing measuring..doing what he did best by finding out everything the people in the room gave off in their words and actions, whethere they wanted to reveal it or not. This girl, cousin though Kedyn wasn't sure he beleived it though not entirely for the same reasons as Arath or Carnhain might. Her face, looks, perhaps they had only gotten the wrong traits from their parents but it didn't seem like they were related with their lack of similarities.

 

And nor did the words bode well for the group. Anger was present in both sides, and their group was outnumbered and out armed. An Aes Sedai sitting in front of them as well as armed men all around them, both outside and inside the room. If this escalated they were dead, no doubt.

 

"Forgive my companions their childish anger sir, we're a long time from hom and some patience wears thin on long roads with no end in sight." Kedyn shot a fuming glance at Arath and Carnhain. Carnhain might be of a higher rank but he was certainly not being diplomatic enough for their own good, and this arrogant Ashaman was not helping.

 

"Who every one in this room is is irrelevant for our purpose, and why you are here milday" Kedyn gave a respectful nod to the curious enigma of the Aes Sedai, "Is just as irrelevant, you have your reasons as much as we do." Kedyn gave a small friendly smile, at least he was able to control his emotions enough in situations that could get you killed by one off remark.

 

"So if you will let us stay..than perhaps my companions can leave this petty anger of theirs behind so we can discuss like men perhaps? And perhaps if they can't then I will take over and they will recieve a good spanking from their commanding officers for being so disrespectful in your noble home sir." Phrased to this commander in front of them, but thick with sarcasm towards his two companions as he nodded with a warm smile, a little humor would perhaps help as well. "We only wish to help." There, he had said his bit and left out everything he wanted to. He alone was still nameless, and hopefully what he said would cool the room to levels he was more comfortable with and allow careful negotiations.

 

 

Kedyn Alastair

Band Scout

Miria felt a little out of her depth as she stood silently in the ominous atmosphere. There was tension on both sides, so thick it was almost tangible. In fact tension had been building in the city for days, something that brought Miria no comfort. She had only seen one battle, and the horrid memories of that were enough that she never wanted to see another again, soldier or no.

 

They were supposed to be negotiating to maintain peace, not to encourage violence! She could have slapped all the parties involved, though it was hardly her place to do so. She was just a private, after all. So instead she was forced to act as though she was in full support of Carnhain's idiocy, and the Ashaman was not much better.

 

Yelling at an Aes Sedai? Was he out of his mind? Perhaps he was going mad like all male channelers eventually would, because raising your voice to an Aes Sedai was a quick way to anger her, and even in her limited knowledge, Miria knew it was best not to trifle with her sort. Or perhaps it was because he too could weild the one power. She had seen some of what they could do at the citadel, and it was impressive. But it was no excuse for foolishness.

 

Kedyn spoke up, a decidedly calmer voice next to Carnhain and Arath. Miria silently applauded her lover his tact. A yelling match would not win them anything but trouble, but perhaps a soft, reasoning voice could bring about successful negotiating. Or at least avoid complete disaster. She had not missed how dreadfully outnumbered they were. Trained soldiers and a man who weilded the power, but they were too few. They had to maintain peace if they wished to live to see the day through. It was that thought that made her wonder once again why she had been deemed fit to aid this mission.

 

Miria cast her gaze to Kedyn as he spoke. She did not believe the other women present should be so quickly dismissed. There were strong undercurrents that she did not understand, but she sensed that presuming they should discuss 'like men' may only add to the irritation radiating from the so called 'cousin'. But there was little they could do, they were more there to present a stronger front than to actually take part in the negotiating. Hopefully now though, Carnhain and Arath will have detected the hidden not in Kedyn's words and watch their own. She had no desire to meet the creator this day.

 

 

Miria Landen

OOC: Wanted to post a reaction before James posted his bit for re-starting the negotiations :) Interesting and unexpected dynamics indeed which is awesome.

 

IC:

 

Arath spoke again, or almost yelled. Arette shouldn't have been surprised but still she was. Why had the Black Tower sent this hotheaded arrogant prick? Her eyes narrowed at him questioning her honesty and her motives for being in Illian. When he reached the absolute low point of his little spiel, calling Perfumed Quarters a slum, Arette took a firm hold of Con's arm as he glared at the Asha'man. There was utter contempt in her eyes too. How dared he to insult them, their relatives and lifestyles in this way and still expect their help. With the way this was going, they might not be getting the information they needed from, information that they likely couldn't get from anywhere else. That intelligence would be crucial for making any kind of accurate plans that wouldn't get the liberators butchered. The last part of his speech was supposedly meant to soothe them but as he lacked all tact and diplomatical skill, he ended it to a demand that could only antagonize them further. She just eyed him stonily and said nothing.

 

A third man who had been quiet so far spoke and he had the sense to apologize. Arette relaxed a bit but still stayed close to Con to keep him from doing anything really rash. She responded the man's respectful gesture with an acknowledging nod of her own and a slight smile. She liked this man and she hoped that he had done the talking from the start. She was fairly certain that Con would allow the negotiations to be started over again even if she rolled her eyes at the comment about discussing like men. That was exactly what had been done here so far and what had lead to many raised hackles. But they all had the same goal and they could maybe actually get to the constructive phase of sharing information and making the plans if they took a little break first. They could all composure themselves and discuss their approaches and negotiation strategies. It was all up to Con now.

Patience.

 

That was what Con kept reminding himself of as he listened and let the drama unfold. He needed to be patient, patience was the cornerstone of his years of training and instruction. Things were to be accepted, to be allowed to pass through and over, or as he had learned as a child, one simply had to roll with the punches sometimes. No matter how well someone tried to handle something, there was always the possibility of it going horribly wrong. Things that couldn't be predicted, things that should have been predicted and weren't, things that one knew were going to go wrong but there was not a jot one could do about them.

 

The situation Con found himself in covered all three of these problems. He did not foresee members of the Black Tower or the Band of the Red Hand approaching them on behalf of the Dragon. Something he was finding more palatable because when Fia, who he should have known would be as difficult as she could be, would draw attention to herself and forget the role she had been encouraged for months to adopt to protect herself. And of course, the thing he knew would go wrong was his own temper which was rising, despite his attempts to be patient and calm.

 

In fact, if it had not been for the one that Carnhain had introduced as Kedyn, then Con was certain that the meeting would have been completely unsalvagable. Watching the man as he spoke, his anger diminished only slightly even as he recognised the voice of reason that had previously been lacking from the other party. Light but this was a mess, and so help him his anger at how this had turned out as well as what had been said was not helping him at all.

 

"I do be thinking that do be the wisest thing that do be said so far." Con's tone was far from soft, but the anger wasn't directed at Kedyn. "In fact, I do be thinking it perhaps be best if we do be taking a few minutes apart to be cooling off." And for them to take the chance to discuss things amongst themselves, as Con certainly planned to do with Arette and Fia.

 

In particular Fia.

 

Turning to the Asha'man Arath, Con took a couple of steps forward so they were no more than a couple of feet apart. If anyone had been wondering who he was angry with, the black gaze and the icy voice would have informed them. "As for you, Asha'man, if you ever do be insulting my wife again, especially under my roof, then it do be the last time. And when you do be returning, I do be suggesting you be having an apology for her or you best no be coming back at all."

 

Looking over Arath's shoulder to Nic, his expression remained the same as he spoke. "Nic, do be escorting them out to the courtyard. We will be joining them in a few minutes."

 

Waiting until the last one of them had gone, quietly, Con turned to Arette with a deceptively mild tone. "Could you be warding this room please?" Getting a nod after a moment, Con took that to mean that the ward of silence was in place. Now he could speak without fear of being overheard.

 

No need to guard his tongue now.

 

Looking at Fia, if Arath had thought he had been unfairly singled out, then he was sorely mistaken. If anything, he was even angrier with her which was no doubt why he took his time on every word as he spoke. "What was that? If I do be recalling correctly your name do be Fia and you do be our serving girl. See, I just do be wanting to be checking this because last I recalled, you no be telling strangers you know nothing about that you do be; a member of the court, in the service of the crown, making demands of Dragonsworn and for all intents and purposes do be screaming 'look at me'."

 

"You know, because the whole idea of you being here was to be remaining unseen." A slight pause, the calm before the storm as he took a few steps closer to her. "WHAT DO YOU BE THINKING?!"

 

 

Con Stavros

 

 

OOC: Ok, the way the RP has gone so far was definitely unplanned, but lets roll with it :) We're going to have Con and Arette have a 'discussion' with the Princess.

 

While we're doing that, this is a good time for Band/BT to discuss things. Also gives Nakor (our other Ashie) a good chance to jump in as he's been sort of wondering where to slip in. We'll see how this deviation goes then bring the two groups back together, the Princess will be revealed and we'll push forward.

All eyes were on Con as he suggested the break like he had been reading her mind. But he was a wise man, wiser than many would credit from his mien and he had experience from his time in the White Tower and the Citadel of the Light. His words to the Asha'man startled Arette also and even if she was touched by the gesture of him defending her honour, it could make things difficult. At least it showed that he wouldn't be bullied around and maybe Master Faringail would be more careful with his tongue in the future. Still this show of temper worried her. It wasn't like Con, the old Con at least. Had he really been changed so much by Philip's death? They would have to discuss about it later. She didn't mind and she would love him no matter what he was like, but she had to know so she could predict his reactions. Unexpected surprises were not something she liked, even from her own husband or maybe especially from him.

 

The embassy took off escorted by Nic and Arette set up the privacy ward meekly. Fia would certainly be getting an earful and she just resigned to listen and let him spend his rage and get it out. Then he could maybe be reasoned with and he could face the Asha'men and Banders. Con was quite magnificent in fact but she was definately glad that she was not on the receiving end. From their earlier fights she knew that she could respond viciously even if the previous conflicts had been mostly her doing. She didn't want to ever argue with him no matter how common place it was in Illian. She might be be able to face off Electra with no problem but she didn't love Electra from the bottom of her heart and they were not married.

 

But this was no time to ponder their private affairs. As strange as they all would find it, she had to step between Con and Fia and speak in her defense - kind of - before the girl exploded. Fia likely still would but maybe Con would listen to Arette. She moved to face her husband and cupped his face firmly. "Listen love, what Fia did was wrong and stupid but now is no time to lay blame and find motives. Instead we need to find the best way to benefit from this. There is a way and this opened the chance to tell what we know of the real events at the palace without compromising Fia's identity yet. We can merely imply that she indeed has been there and let them assume that she was simply a courtier. It conflicts with your comments about being loyal to the Queen but they might just let that pass once we make an alliance. And we do need their help, right?"

 

She looked at both Con and Fia demandingly and locked her gaze on the young woman. "Alright, child. You may say your piece now. I am sure that you wish to vent, but be brief about it so we can get to the actually productive things soon."

"You do be expect too little from me." She frowned, almost hurt in her stance as her eyes flickered between the two of them. "Your meeting ruined and pride bashing into eachother. I may think that I do be but a silly princess with my head in the cluds, but i do be right in saying that if I had been there to begin with, if you be asking me to stay that we be no needing this break and them be in the courtyards to bicker."

 

She looked to Arette Sedai and frowned, "Do you be expect that I can no handle my own country? Maybe you do be right, maybe yuo do be wrong, but by leaving me outside those doors will no more educate me than anger me." Sofia was educated and intelligent, and although she had her own way of doing things, she admitted that she could be wrong, even if the admission was to herself. Selfish she may be, young as well, foolish, perhaps. But daft and beyond hope she was not. And her own stubborn nature would not allow them to back her down from her mind frame. "I do no care if you think that you need me for this meeting, but I do think you do. Make me stand in the corner or sit by the desk, but I no be leaving this room or wherever your meeting do be placed. I be a reminder of what you all be fighting for and I will no be pushed aside because I be insignificant in this."

 

 

 

Sofia

Fia's speech made Arette smile appreciatively. She wasn't a lost case and she would make a fine ruler once things just got arranged the way they ought to be. "We are not talking now about whether your presence here was alright or not in the first place. That is for later. The topical thing is that you are here now and they are not a threat to you. And the way things went, it would do more harm than good to exclude you now."

 

"This discussion and the break are not needless, though. Both sides need to gather their ranks under one commander as there seems to be mutiny on both troops. We do have to explain them something about how we know what we know about the events in the Palace. There are two ways to go about it, the whole truth or clinging to the half-truths given so far and insinuations. Con, what is your opinion about that? I think that Fia could actually talk to them in both cases but you are the commander of the militia and it is your men we are committing here." She shot a warning glance at the young woman. Whether she liked it or not, it was Con's decision.

 

The last thing that Con had expected was for Arette to step in and actually defend Fia. Well, not defend her so much as tried to postpone the inevitable, because as far as Con was concerned the only thing that kept him from knocking Fia on the ground was the fact that she was a woman. Light, but if they had been Darkfriends, or worse yet Dreadlords, anything could have happened and with his children in the other room that was less than acceptable. Then of course Arette jumped back in confirmed what she'd said. Nevermind that she was right, again. Taking a deep breath, Con took a few seconds before responding. "Full truth, she do be speaking only when she do be spoken to." Looking at Fia, his anger had only lessened slightly. "And when this do be done, we do be having a conversation about what do and no be appropriate."

 

Fia thankfully nodded which settled it and Arette went on quickly to check the girls. They were playing peacefully behind the locked door of their room, a small credit to Fia, and she told them that Mama, Dada and Fifi would be with them soon. After that the trio headed out of the room intent on meeting the representatives of the Dragon at the yard.

 

Arette & Con

 

OOC: We decided to leave it to this so you can work out between you whether you (BTer and Banders) want to RP having a chat or just assume that your chars talked :)

Jatasha couldn't remember ever feeling so completely useless in her whole life. As a child her mother had instilled her with the belief that she was worth something and was always able to give something worthwhile. When she had died, her father had taught her she had something else to give. SInce that time she had always had a service to provide, a place in society even if it wasn't mentioned in the upper echelons. In this room surrounded by all these people, she felt helpless and no more than a bother to people of a greater cause.

 

She was just a whore, a whore who had crossed paths with Carnhain and had somehow found herself among the Band of the Red Hand. She felt at home there with them in a way that she hadn't felt since childhood, but she was no child any longer, no matter that her number of years was small compared to the Aes Sedai they had seen.

 

So as they pulled together after Con had mentioned some time to cool off, she looked over at the others and followed closely with them as those better than her spoke. Her eyes continued to return to the Stavros dwelling and it's people wondering if perhaps she hadn't left Illian too soon. It was a childish wish though, to be part of something bigger and stronger, to feel loved for who you were and not as the world wanted you to be. She had a new place in the world now, and as useless as she was, she was going to make her way somehow.

 

Jatasha Danica

"Could you give us one moment sir?"

 

The man that Kedyn had heard to be named Nic backed up a few paces to give the small group some space. Kedyn let out a long sigh, shaking his head but determined to not let his irritation show through. There had already been enough of that during the negotiations and it would not help to poke at people's prides for their loss of tempers. "That didn't..quite...go as well as it could have. Both of you need to calm down. And you," Kedyn pointed at Arath, seeping some of his irritation through but his words to the Aes Sedai could have very well gotten them killed if the situation had not been diffused.

 

"If another arrogant Ashaman comment like that one comes out of your mouth I will help them do whatever they want to you. The Aes Sedai in their should be treated like the bloody wife of your Dragon not some common street hussy! It doesn't matter what, but she is the wife of their commander and insulting her once is worse than insulting him a hundred times."

 

Kedyn shook his head and calmed himself back down. This was why he hated bringing people who had not been trained to deal with to situations like this, they stepped on nerves and didn't realize a single off comment could escalate to arms many times. "So if you two are going to keep doing all the talking, the Aes Sedai is 'milady' or 'maam' or anything respectful taht you can think of, the Commander of this militia is 'sir' or at least a respectful tone of voice."

 

Kedyn was more than willing to take a backseat as long as these two knew that there main goal was not to find out the lifestory of these people but too get some information and the agreement that they would help when the time to attack Illian came. "So we leave the question of whoever this girl is, if they want to tell us they can, if not...oh well. They are in control and on most things we have no space for demands, especially on things that will probobly not affect our main goal. Now Jatasha," Kedyn turned to the almost forgotten woman who's story Kedyn had no idea of, but was bugging him for that reason only. "Perhaps you could give us some type of information about these people..anything you might be able to think of?" Light Kedyn would be happy to be over with this, he looked to Miria and she smiled and that helped ease away some of his tension as he smiled back. They were going to salvage this, they needed too.

 

 

Kedyn

OOC: I was waiting for Nakor to step in, but I guess thats not gonna happen now. Looks like Arath is the only active Ashy on this trip . . . bummer huh?

 

The moment Nic had stepped away, Arath threw a small ward into place to keep the conversation private. Which was a good thing, since this fool Kedyn was not showing any signs of smartening up. Arath tried to calmly listen as he ranted, but his patience was wearing thin. When he had finished, Arath held up his hand to stop Jatasha. He had a few words of his own to speak.

 

"Do you make a regular habit of insulting your superior officers? Do you think that your own little display improved our position? They will not want to work with a divided force, much like I do not want to work with people I cannot trust.

 

"If you think you can do a better job, then by all means help us out. I am a weapon, not a diplomat. I have no skill in twisting words like the Aes Sedai has done, so I speak directly. So believe me when I say that if one more fool comment come out of your mouth, I will show you first hand why the Asha'man are so feared."

 

The cold look in his eyes left no doubt that he meant what he said. "Now, Jatasha, if you would."

Frustration threatened to turn to anger; anger pounding in his mind with the rhythm of his heart; the rhythm of his blood lust. Bloody and bloody ashes! He needed to calm down! Fast! Things had already spun out of his control and it would be far beyond recovery if he lost control of his mind now. ‘Breathe man. You bloody fool! You can’t afford to let anger control you.’

 

All the same though, by the time Carnhain had been escorted out of the barracks and into the courtyard his fists were tightly balled and his eyes threatened to kill whatever he stared at too long. Again he repeated the command to himself to breathe and calm down.

 

As Kedyn spoke, his former anger for the man undermining his authority fled like a stag before the hounds. The voice of reason slowly crept through his thick skull, calming him and forcing him to see the stupidity of his own actions. However, Arath was another story. Unfortunately, his anger would so him no good and only make a bad situation worse. A few choice words were needed though.

 

“Shove it, Asha’man.” So much for keeping his temper in check. “If you account yourself our superior officer, you make a grave mistake and if that comment was referring to Sergeant Alastair, you have no idea what you’re talking about. I trust Kedyn like a brother and without his suggestion, no doubt our escort would have thrown us all out on our noses and you could report to the Dragon bloody Reborn how you botched the interview.”

 

The Asha’man made as if to speak, but Carnhain cut him off. “I don’t doubt your worth on the battlefield, but you are no diplomat and neither am I. So the both of us can shut up, stand there and look pretty while Kedyn and Jatasha handle the rest of the interview.”

 

Having released his venom, he turned to Jatasha with as chivalrous a grin as he could manage. “My apologies for cutting you off.”

 

 

Lt. Carnhain Stromblade

Band of the Red Hand

More than a little ticked off

The whole thing had become insane. Their party was completely insane, she decided as they all debated back and forth, each of them turning back to her to hear her words. Her words... like she had anything of worth to give them. She was about to try to put it all off, to tell them she didn't know any more than she had already said, when Carnhain turned to her as well. She wouldn't be here now if it weren't for him. If she had survived that night without his interference, she would still be travelling the world, along and friendless, working back alleys for coin when what she had ran out. So she took a deep breath and calmed herself.

 

She shook her head slightly. "I do no think there is much I can be telling you that I have no already said before. I grew up in this area, but things do be changed since I left. This family though, they are good people and they always do the right thing. I do no know the girl with them, but I can say she no did grow up around here, with that attitiude and bearing. Whoever she be, they brought her here, or she sought them out. Perhaps she knows more about the troubles than we, no? Or perhaps she is nothing and we are on our own. I do know that they are the only ones keeping peace in the Perfumed quarters. We've all seen it since we arrived. He do be a Queen's man, of that i've no doubt. So what does that say of the person in power?" She asked. "Do the Queen really rule her people, or do someone else be taking a hand?" She shrugged. "I am no politician. I be nothing more than-" she couldn't say it in front of Carnhain, a street whore wouldn't come from her lips with him standing so close by. "-a girl raised on these streets. But I do be trusting the man in that room, I trust the people that would make this place safe for even the low life's that do infest it's quarters. I don't know what else you would ask of me, but that is what I do think."

 

Jatasha Danica