05/19/2000 Courtyard, The White Tower, Tar Valon Marble tiles gleam from a straight path which leads from the Gates of the Tower to the wide double doors which announce its entry point. Soft grass and well planned patches of flowers can be found to either side, with the occasional shady tree. Accepted and novices sit on stone benches, some practicing their Power to the dismay of uneasy petitioners passing through. To the side there is a stable, near the fenced entrance to the clearly visible yard where shirtless boys go through sword forms through the day. Guards take the weapons of those wanting to enter, though the Gaidin spread about the courtyard, seemingly about their leisure, look ready to pounce on any men who "forgot" a dagger at the gates. Aes Sedai pass through on various errands, some nodding to acknowledge bows or curtsies. The atmosphere is busy, but calm. Espi sits on a bench, string out at nothing and seemingly frozen to the place where she is. Tiau stands in front of her. Espi stares distantly, face going sad for a time. "I..just wish he were still with me. I mean..it wouldn't be so bad if I knew if he were alright and I..do so need him." She sighs, blinking once before going on. "Yes..work is going as well as can be expected, but..there are a few problems. As there will be with such things." She shrugs, "We have a success and are working to create a second. I..just worry about the keys. They do not lead to where they are supposed to most times. It seems..more random and I can't work out that problem. If I could..I could travel between to find him..since I..know he has to be lost somewhere within. I..don't feel him anymore..." "What's wrong, Espi?" She asks, gently. "What are you doing?" Wandering out of the Practice Yard, Neelkan is grumbling softly under his breath about something. Something that can't really be heard and is said rather softly. Though even if someone were a few feet from him they probably still would not hear make it out. He starts towards the Tower itself, then pauses as he hears a voice he recognizes. Espi? He glances around until he sees the girl and immediately heads towards her, only to come to a halt a few feet away when those words she is speaking start to register. Keys? Lost somewhere...? His bright blue-green eyes blink with confusion. It's happening again... isn't it...? Espiria shrugs a shoulder to someone she hears. The voice she speaks with is full of power and surity of what she says, though it seems full of sadness as well as she continues. "Yes...I will tell the Shae'en M'taal that they will be needed, though I'm sure they will not understand why." She sighs, shaking her head. "You know it must be asked. We are not equiped for such things. I..wonder if Bellandona has started that male training program as yet. Though..poor things won't be ready for years as yet and I'd hate to have them hurry off to fight before they are ready." Tiau reaches up to try and tap at the center of Espiria's forehead. "Who are you talking to?" Kalibar steps into the courtyard, whistling a spritely tune to himself as he strides towards the front gates. He pauses as he spots the group and turns toward them with a smile. Oh Light. Neelkan's eyes look towards the sky for a brief moment, before darting around the Courtyard, then focusing on the Tinker woman with the novice he knows. He heads closer to them, biting down on his lower lip a little before asking in a rather soft (for him) voice, "Espi?" He sounds a little concerned. Alright, a lot concerned. Espiria glances out toward the gates of the Tower courtyard not seeing anyone and speaking in a louder tone. One that Kalibar would hear even at his distance. "I do not! I...will never choose another. He..is gone and I..will just have to be without." Two tears fall down her face as she sighs. "No..you go about your duties. I still have testing to do on the one we have completed thus far. Do not worry..I will endure to do what must be done. I..must. I have no choice." Her voice fades, repeating over and over again. "no choice...no choice.....no choice..." Kalibar reaches the group and hears Espiria repeating her mantra endlessly, and his smile fades into a rather deep frown, which looks unusual on his usually smiling face, "What's going on here?" Tiau reaches out to touch the woman's shoulder. "Wake up, dear... wake up.." A'right. Neelkan really does not like this. At all. He moves forward and instantly puts a hand on Epsi's other shoulder. "Espi? Ya gotta stop playin' 'round now, ya hear? Snap outta it." He really would rather not be forced to take any messures like shaking her. It's the tears that seem to have him upset. At the Warder's voice though his hand moves away again and he reaches up to scratch at his hair, "Uh... I dunno. She started talkin' weird. Prolly playin' a joke on us!" He offers one answer to why she's acting strange, even if he knows it's wrong. One thing he's interested in knowing... He has to ask. Sorry Espi. "D'ya know what ..Shae'en M'taal means?" Cause it's obvious he doesn't have a clue. Espiria shivers a bit, voice seeming to fade out as her eyes slip closed. Her hand goes to her head and she sways just a bit on the seat, other hand gripping the bench so she feels something steady under her. She feels hands on her shoulders, glances blearily up to them before connecting them to the others with her. She widens her eyes, fear and worry flickering there as she mutters over and over, "Oh..no..Not again...Please not again." She notes Kalib there and bites her lower lip in worry. She looks down and blushes in embarrassment of it happening again with others around her. If..only she had a way to control it. To hold it back so she could get away before it took her..to that other place. Kalibar frowns at the word, "No....I don't know what it means....but I think I recognize the language." He looks to Espi and takes her shoulders in his hands, "Are you all right, Espiria?" He uses her name, rather than 'novice'. Don't tell the Sedai! Nodding her head to Neelkan, Tiau speaks "Yes I do." She says, looking back over towards Espi. Taking in a deep breath, Neelkan looks around one more time then focuses his eyes on his friend again. As the warder does what he wants to do he frowns slightly, bunching his mouth up on one side. But then he just shakes his head and lowers his hands until they touch the sash around his waist. He didn't want to grab her again anyway. "I'm sure she's fine... I'm sure she'd perfer if we didn't question 'er too much." Though he -really- wants to turn this into another round of 'What in the Light is goin' on, Espi?!'. Mmhmm. He's just trying to be helpful. (Believe it or not.) Espiria bites her lower lip, shivering. "I'm...fobidden to talk about it, Gaidin. I...Oh Light..why did it have to happen here...now?" She bends over and weeps quietly. She looks up at the Gaidin, eyes wide and frightened. "I'm..just scared. Alittle tired, but that's all." She glances at everyone, shaking her head. "I'm...sooo sorry. I never meant for...I didn't mean for..." She looks back to the Gaidin, frowning. "I really didn't want to involve...them. I tried to make it stop..I did..." Tiau shushes Espiria gently.. "I believe it is time for you to go to sleep, m'dear." Kalibar nods, "Don't worry about it, Espiria....it's not your fault." He glances to the other two, "Listen to me......neither of you must speak of this to -anyone-. Forget that it ever happened...." His tone is quite serious...a rarity on him. Tiau turns and moves to the Gaidin.. "Walk with me, brother of battles?" The soft sound of a knuckle popping is the only sound that Neelkan makes besides breathing right now. His fist is now tightly closed around his poor defenseless sash until the nuckles are as white as his hair. The skin around his eyes tighten, and his jaw closes as well. Blood 'n ashes... His eyes stay on his friend while the Warder gives his order. Finally, after a long delay on his part, he nods his head slightly. He will not speak of it with anyone else, but he will not forget it. Not when it involves a friend. Might as well ask him not to breathe. He just doesn't say that. Kalibar glances between Tiau and Neelkan, then back to Espiria, "Neelkan, take Espiria to the infirmary (How did he know his name?), and make sure she rests. I will join you shortly." Espiria rises from the bench, wobbling on her legs just a bit as she sighs. She would curtsey to the Gaidin, but her legs would tumble her to the ground if she tried that. She glances at Neel, managing a smile to him as she sees his concern. "I'll be fine..really. You..ready to help get me there?" Taking another deep breath, Neelkan nods again and finally unclenches his fist around the poor sash that never did anything to him and says to the Gaidin, "Of course, Gaidin." Oi. Title. He's really upset. Then he forces a smirk at his friend and his mood jumps up slightly (or at least it does appearance wise), "Ye'h! I know the place real well! Shouldn't be hard t' find." And with that said he moves over to offer his friend any help and support she needs to get to the Tower, and then to the Infirmary itself. The Tinker woman stands off to the side of the courtyard as she leans against her staff. She patiently waits for the Gaidin to finish. Kalibar nods to Neelkan and Espiria, then turns and moves over to Tiau, "Yes?" The hint of his usual smile returns. Espiria turns to head to head with Neel toward the Tower and the infirmary. She leans a bit on his arm as she walks and seems to be very careful with each step she takes. She notes Denn heading out and smiles to her, bobbing a very slight curtsey as she grips onto Neel's arm for support. She manages a smile, "Good day, Denn'ryiel." She glances at Neel hoping that he will get her there soon, since her legs don't seem to want to hold her up. Tiau mutters to Kalibar, "... know what... means?... has... about the..." Tiau seems to be speaking to the Gaidin in small hushed tones as she looks over towards her distraut friend. Kalibar tilts his head at Tiau, then shakes his head slightly. Denn'ryiel's eyebrow raises slightly as she steps out of the Tower and sees Espiria in a weakened state. "Light shine, Espiria, Neelkan. What happened?" she then asks, dispensing with pleasantries for now. Moving with Epsi clinging to his arm, Neelkan looks a little awkward and distraught, perhaps at the idea of a girl needing him for support, but it also appears as if it might be forced. "Dontcha go gettin' used t' 'is, Espi." But that sounds forced too. When the girl sees his friend his mood seems to brighten genuinely and he smirks gaain, "Heya Denn. Ya wanna help m' get Espi int' the infirmary?" Neelkan doesn't answer his friends question, trying not to look like it's a big deal. Silly Gaidin giving orders. Glare. Espiria wobbles a bit more on her feet, glancing between the two. Her eyes go to Denn and then Neel, "Might...we go now? I'm..not sure how long I..can stand up." Her eyes slip closed a bit before she opens them again. "So...tired." Tiau nods and erms for a few moments as she speaks again. Tiau mutters to Kalibar, "... been gone... centuries." Kalibar nods, then raises a finger, murmuring something in reply to Tiau. Denn'ryiel nods to Neelkan and hurries over to Espiria's other arm. She's far from the strongest woman at the Tower, but this task shouldn't take too much strength. "Please tell me you haven't channeled yourself to exhaustion, Espi," she says, when the group begins walking again. Kalibar mutters to Tiau, "... to continue... someplace..." Siiiigh. Neelkan looks at his friend, then around and just asks, looking like he doesn't want to ask it but he really does... "D'ya want m' t' carry ya? If it'll be easier on ya...." He shrugs slightly. No big deal. Really. But with Denn now it should be easier, so he just continues to help the girl into the Tower. Infirmary, White Tower, Tar Valon Square in shape, this room is most often abuzz with activity. It contains the normal implements of a teaching infirmary, in fact, it is extremely well stocked with all manner of things: cots, jars, bottles, syringes, bandages, cloths, cabinets, shelves, books and tables along with plenty of hot water. The air has that sterile smell associated with the constant use of redwort, tinged with the unpleasant prickle of witchhazel. While most of the Healing is done via the One Power at the Tower, there are many minor medical situations that are dealt with the old fashioned way. There are several areas curtained off, for patients' privacy as well as for instructional usages. This is a teaching infirmary for the Yellow Ajah, after all. Beds in cheerful colors are lined up in neat rows, providing a comfortable place to sleep after a Healer's tender ministrations. Windows are kept wide open to all for light and fresh air. Espiria heads into the infirmary walking or rather trying to walk in between Neel's arm and Denn's arm. She wobbles badly on her feet, eyes slipping closed off and on as she struggles to keep going. Mindra pulls the chair that the novice had been seated in closer and settles into it, a scant distance from Redd's beside. She studies the lad's face quietly, her face composed in contemplation. She doesn't seem to notice as the others enter the infirmary, but of course the staff does. There is a flutter of movement by the Accepted and Novices that work here in the ward as Espiria and Denn'ryiel enter. Denn'ryiel divides her attention between the girl she helps in, and the bed that they are (hopefully) walking towards. "Take it carefully, Espi, we're almost there." Her eyes still venture to Neelkan occaisionally, asking for elaboration. Mouth all bunched up on one side in a frown, Neelkan continues to help his friend forward, in the direction of a bed, with the help of his other friend, making sure that the younger of the two doesn't fall down and hurt herself. He glances over at the oldest of the three (though probably a lot older then he thinks she is...) and just shakes his head slightly. He can't give an answer to what happened. That's what his expression says. Espiria moves slowly toward the bed, eyes blearily looking to Denn with a smile of thanks to her help. She glances over to Neel, shivering slightly and sooo sorry that she drug him into this. If she..could have stopped it she would have to save him from anything else to have to deal with. Her eyes are a bit sad when open and gladly she gets to the bed and sits down. Her legs wobble as she does, sighing softly as her head drops into her hands. Denn'ryiel sighs as she helps Espiria onto the bed. She composes herself for a brief moment, before biting her upper lip and bringing up her hand, in the motion she was trained to do when delving someone with the Power. "How much of... whatever happened did you see, Neelkan?" she asks, while her eyes are on the novice. Redd remains on his bed in the same condition he was in when the two last saw him. He even seems to sleep as he had before. Clenching his fist slightly around his sash again as soon as Espi is safe on the bed, Neelkan frowns as his friend asks outright what he saw. He shakes his head again and looks away, his eyelids closing halfway, "I can't tell ya what happened. The Gaidin ordered m' not t' speak of it." And it's very obvious he doesn't like that at all. He shakes his head again, opening his eyes fully before laying a hand on the girl's shoulder, "Espi? Don't worry, a'right? Remember what I told ya yesterday...?" That's the only bit of comfort he can offer. ... Speaking of yesterday, he glances away towards where Redd's bed is and checks on the boy. Good. Still asleep. He would not like to see Espi in this condition, and Neel knows it. Espiria glances upwards to Neel, nodding slowly before she looks with worry over to Redd. Oh..please don't have him wake up just now. She couldn't bear to see him as sick as he is trying to get out of the bed and come over to her. He needs his rest..and she has to deal with this alone. Well...technically alone, since noone can really understand what she's going thru at the moment. She sighs, shaking her head for a moment. Her head darts upwards though, "Notebook...I..I've got to have my notebook before I forget it all. Mother would be upset if I let that happen." She frowns, muttering that to herself but loud enough for others to hear also. Denn'ryiel just sits there blinking for a moment. "The Gaidin ordered him not to... Mother would be upset?" Then it strikes her that Espiria's notebook is being asked for, and she looks around for it. "You should get some rest Espi... you are not in good shape." She'd give Neelkan a hard look, but she knows it isn't the lad's fault. Still, it's hard to treat a condition when one has little idea what it is. "Can you at least tell me if Espiria is currently in danger, Neelkan?" she asks, looking at him. Her friendliness is eclipsed at the moment by concern for one of her students. Lowing his hand, Neelkan closes his eyes and takes in deep breaths. She needs her notebook? Sigh. Denn's asking him to say if she's currently in danger. Sigh again. He clenches his eyes even tighter closed, then his fists follow a second later. He hates feeling useless. Finally he manages to get out, "I don't think she's currently in any danger..." Currently being the keyword. Light!! He really, really wants to know what's going on with his friend. After a few more moments he pulls himself together and asks, "Where's yer notebook? I'll go get it." Give him a little time to vent mentally. Espiria glances up to Neel, eyes taking a moment or two to focus on him. "It's...on the bench where I was sitting. I..forgot to grab it." She seems a bit pale at the moment too, and sighs deeply as though the effort to stay awake was more than she felt she was capable of. But she does it, because Mother /has/ to know what happened while she can remember it. Not that it's all the clear at the moment, but it's clearer than it would be after she takes a nap. She sighs, offering him a smile before she scoots back to lean against the wall behind the bed. Denn'ryiel sighs and pulls out a wicker chair next to Espiria's chosen cot, and takes a seat. She smiles to Neelkan, both to thank him for his answer and apologize for the questions, before he goes. She then looks back to Espiria. she's half-tempted to try a sleeping weave; the Novice truely needs her sleep. But if this is something Mother needs to know... "I assume the Gaidin's directive not to speak of it extended to you as well, Espi?" she asks, trying not to let the frustration at her helplessness seep into her voice. Reaching once more to squeeze his friend's shoulder slightly, Neelkan offers a smile, "I'll go 'n get it right now." Then he heads towards the door out of the Infirmary to head back down to the Courtyard and retrieve the book from the bench it was laid on. And don't be at all surprised if he takes a few minutes to do it. Yes, he's fast when he wants to be (and even faster if the Tower would ever give his earrings back) but he just might be naughty enough to sneak a quick peek into the book and skim a few pages. (Ain't he awful?) Courtyard, The White Tower, Tar Valon Marble tiles gleam from a straight path which leads from the Gates of the Tower to the wide double doors which announce its entry point. Soft grass and well planned patches of flowers can be found to either side, with the occasional shady tree. Accepted and novices sit on stone benches, some practicing their Power to the dismay of uneasy petitioners passing through. To the side there is a stable, near the fenced entrance to the clearly visible yard where shirtless boys go through sword forms through the day. Guards take the weapons of those wanting to enter, though the Gaidin spread about the courtyard, seemingly about their leisure, look ready to pounce on any men who "forgot" a dagger at the gates. Aes Sedai pass through on various errands, some nodding to acknowledge bows or curtsies. The atmosphere is busy, but calm. Tiau is sitting back on the bench that she and Espi were talking on. SHe seems troubled Coming out of the Tower, Neelkan quickly moves over to the bench that the Tinker woman is sitting at and pauses for a second to scratch at his hair awkwardly, "Eh... hey. Um..." He doesn't say anything more and starts to look around the bench for something it seems. "Yes?" She looks up over at the man, her fingers playing over her recently reconstructed harp. "Uh.. did ya happen t'.." Neelkan starts, then stops as he spots the corner of the object he was looking for. "Ah! Ne'ermind." He bends down and picks up a notebook that fell under the bench, then he stands up and looks over the woman's harp. "Uh... nice insterment. Uh... Bye!" He seems uncomfortable for some reason, but after what happened out here just a short while ago, is it any surprise? He holds the notebook and starts towards the Tower again. "What's wrong with you? I'm a Tinker, if you've forgotten." Tiau say as she watches the man strangely. Huh? Neelkan pauses and turns around slightly to glance back at her, "I just... I have t'... get 'is t'... Espi..." He shifts slightly, "'n I noticed ya were a Tinker. Kinda hard t' miss with ya all decked up in blinding color combinations!" He grins, and looks a little less uncomfortable, then turns and starts back towards the Tower again to return the notebook to Espi like he said he would. Entrance Hall, White Tower, Tar Valon The floor forms a beautiful mosaic of color as the seven colors of the seven Ajahs are employed in tiny tile work to form the flame of Tar Valon in all of its glory. Though it appears white from a distance, one needs only bend down to see the fine artistry that went into employing those colors in just the right way to create such an illusion. Seven that make one, a fine metaphor for the Aes Sedai, and the first thing a petitioner would see. Women wearing great serpent rings, their faces young whatever their real age, stride through the area, sidestepping petitioners, white-clad novices, and striped Accepted, for the most part calm and aloof. Novices run through, to grab petitioners or on their way to lessons, either one, wheras the Accepted comport themselves with better decorum. Usually, these days, it is tattered refugees, in grimy clothing, that finds itself huddling within these fine white walls. As often as not, they cannot be helped, whatever titles or sad stories they brought with them when they came. More often than not the denizens of the Tower look straight over the heads of these pathetic souls, staring straight south. As though they could see the enemy over the horizon straight through the perfect white Ogier stonework, and somehow eliminate it with a gaze, a glare, a frown. As if some answer to the growing corner they find themselves backed in will present itself from beneath the tangled hair of one of the refugees. Heads tilt upwards with determination and perhaps a hint of anger, then, and often times will disappear in a swirl of cloak and hemline. The door to the tower is more or less thrown open as the Master Gaidin strides into the Enterance area of the Tower. A graceful deadly stride leads him directly towards the infirmary a grim look on his face as he walks. Standing very close to the Infirmary door, Neelkan has a notebook opened in his hands and seems to be reading it with a confused expression on his face and his eyes narrowed slightly. He flips a few more pages, as if trying to read as much as he can in as short a time as possible, but whatever is written he doesn't seem to fully understand. After one more page he finally closes it and looks up and around as if making sure no one saw him reading, as if it would ruin his reputation or something. Michael continues on towards the Infirmary not sparing a glance to the young man standing near the enterance to the room hes about to enter. With the notebook tucked under his arm now, Neelkan also enters, following after the Gaiidn. Infirmary, White Tower, Tar Valon Square in shape, this room is most often abuzz with activity. It contains the normal implements of a teaching infirmary, in fact, it is extremely well stocked with all manner of things: cots, jars, bottles, syringes, bandages, cloths, cabinets, shelves, books and tables along with plenty of hot water. The air has that sterile smell associated with the constant use of redwort, tinged with the unpleasant prickle of witchhazel. While most of the Healing is done via the One Power at the Tower, there are many minor medical situations that are dealt with the old fashioned way. There are several areas curtained off, for patients' privacy as well as for instructional usages. This is a teaching infirmary for the Yellow Ajah, after all. Beds in cheerful colors are lined up in neat rows, providing a comfortable place to sleep after a Healer's tender ministrations. Windows are kept wide open to all for light and fresh air. Redd lies on the bed he occupies with a cold cloth over his forehead to try and bring down the fever that seems to resist going away. The boy's eyes are closed as he sleeps quietly, looking to be in very bad health. Espiria glances to both women, eyes wide as she keeps her hands firmly over her mouth. She can't let herself start spouting things like this. I just can't let this happen again. "I...Please..don't talk about war. Please? I..don't want to disobey Mother is speaking of things I shouldn't be...and...it seems to be triggering when you speak of that." She looks hopefully to both of you, then noticing the entrance of others, she smiles at Neel and notes he has her notebook in hand. She's passed over Redd and knows he's ill. Oh if only she could help fix him, but if the Healers can't..then how could she possibly? She notes Michael as well, laying back on the bed as she is and nods to him, hoping he will understand that she does not curtsey because she is...indisposed at the moment. Michael comes striding into the Infirmary glancing around as long legs lead him further into the steral looking room. Grabbing the arm of a passing Accepted he has a quiet hushed word with her before turning and beging to head towards Reds bedside. Mindra frowns at the novice. No, the yellow sister is not pleased at all. However she tells Espiria, "Very well then. For now, we'll let it rest." She then looks over at the new arrivals, inclining her head toward them politely. It is not everyday that the master gaidin enters her ward. "Light Illuminate you both." Her gaze is mainly on Michael, but it touches briefly upon the woman hater as well. Moving inside right behind the Warder, Neelkan has the notebook safely tucked under one arm and instantly moves over towards his friend. His face is crumpled slightly in consern and confusion, but as soon as he gets closer he covers it up with a smile and holds the notebook out towards his friend, "Hey! It was layin' on the ground, prolly got knocked off, but I found it." The fact that it fell on the ground would explain why it took him so long? Maybe. But there's something about his avoidance of looking at the girl directly... he didn't do something he shouldn't've did he? Denn'ryiel blinks at Espiria, and sighs nodding. "Alright... I'll try not to, Espi." She mentally records the couple words Espiria stated, in case they lead towards an answer to the Novice's illness though. Still, it's going to be hard to make certain she doesn't talk about war, since she is about to head off into it. She looks at the newcomers and gives both a welcoming smile as she gets up. For a moment, she almost gives Michael a curtsey. "I should go then, Espiria... I don't trust my tongue on that subject, not when my thoughts dwell on it. Light shine on all of you," she says, as she moves to depart. Michael comes to a halt beside Redds beside looking down to the young boy for a moment, before looking up tp Mindra. " Light Shine as well Mindra Sedai," he replies before looking back down to Redd. " Whats wrong with him?" Espiria glances to the notebook, holding it gently as though it held all the answers to her questions, but she finds the answers as confusing it not more so than the questions were. She smiles her thanks to Neel, tipping her eyes to Denn in sorrow. "I'm...sorry Denn'ryiel. I didn't mean to....I..just didn't want to.. I mean.." She looks down sadly then, feeling as thought eh ground were ripped out yet again from under her feet. Oh..when will the ground be solid again? When...will she be able to close her eyes and not feel as though she were in anoher place..another time? She looks up, "Light...always keep you safe, Denn'ryiel. Always." She glances over to Redd and Michael, happy to see that someone came to see him. She sighs, hoping against all hopelessness that he recovers before glancing back to Neel. "I...I almost did it again, Neel. I'm glad you walked in when you did..." She sighs deeply, shaking her head. Mindra sighs at the master gaidin's question. "What is not wrong with the boy." She looks up at the man from her chair at the lad's bedside. "There is not a single day when this child is not in my ward. Memory loss, bruises, and now a high fever. I dare not use another weave on him for fear of weakening him further." There is an accusation in the yellow sister's sister tone, "Can you not keep the boy out of trouble?" She doesn't seem to hear the girl as she takes her notebook, since she is focused upon the gaidin at Redd's bedside. " I suppose I could tie him to a chair and just have him fed and watered like an animal every now and then," Michael replies rather flatly to Mindra. " The memory loss isn't my fault and has never been, as far as bruises well let them heal normally, it will toughen the boy up, and if you didn't heal every little scratch then by your own words you could now heal the fever." He grows quiet at that looking down to the Redd. After taking a small breath and seeing his other friend leave (and a bloody good thing he didn't hear about her going off to war or there might have been an explosion of something from him...), Neelkan nods and offers that small smirk again, "Well, glad I came in when I did, 'en." There's a slight pause here, then he glances around and bends down to get a little closer to Espi and whispers softly for her ears alone, "I'm gonna have t' talk t' ya 'bout somethin'. But I'll wait 'til yer better, kay?" Then he straightens again and scratches at his hair. "D'ya need m' t' get ya anythin' else?" Mindra frowns again. "I just want the boy to heal is all...." she doesn't seem to want to press the point with the gaidin. "What brings you to my ward, Gaidin? Looking for more boys to wack?" Michael looks up to Mindra. " I was actually looking for this boy Sedai," he replies calmly. " He went missing from camp then I got word he was here. Espiria blinks after a moment of listening to Neel. Talk to her about something? She shrugs, "I'm not really sick, Neel. Just tired. I can get over that with a good night's sleep." She glances around the room for a moment, noting the conversation with Michael and Mindra over Redd. Her eyes go a bit wide too at the topic, but she glances back to Neel and sighs. "Umm..I could probably do that as easily in my own room then in here. Denn was just being concerned anyways." She smiles a sleepy smile to Neel, hoping that she might be able to slip out of the infirmary to get away from all this talk. She's afraid something will happen again and she hasn't learned to control /that/ as yet. "Maybe we could just leave? I mean.." She tries to keep her voice low, "I don't mind heading back out of here and leaving them to a more private discussion, since it seems they need to." Damn that Gaidin emotionlessness! "I'd say that you found him." She sighs, "What will you do with him now, Michael? He is rather young to be going off to war." They are all far to young.... Taking in a deep breath, Neelkan nods slightly, "A'right. If ya think yer up f'r it. I don't want ya t' stress yerself too much, Espi." Him and Denn practically had to carry her to get into the Infirmary after all... "'n Denn had reason t' be concerned. Just like I'm sure most anyone who knows ya is." He offers a hand to help her get off the bed. "The Gaidin told m' t' see ya t' the Infirmary. Might as well see ya outta it too!" His voice is low volume wise, but the tone is something more like his normal voice, even if the volume isn't there. Espiria stiffens, eyes fuzzing out for a second or two before her voice comes out, stronger than before. It rings with age and power which this poor novice certainly doesn't seem to have. Still the voice is one of that power. Her body goes slightly lax as her voice comes out clearly. Oh..if that sentence had only not been said. The young..going off to war. Mindra just doesn't realize what she just sparked. "The young...untrained. Would that we had the Shae'en M'taal at our backs rather than the future that is our youth. As it was in days before. They were ever faithful to the promoting of peace...and of justice. We coudla wlays depend upon them for this." Espi's eyes go wide for just a moment, but she doesn't seem to leave that dazed state. She's..partly here...partly somewhere else it would seem as she stares at nothing. " Hes not going off to War Aes Sedai," Michael replies looking down to the boy again. " He is simply a cooks assistant in the army. Getting paid and room and board and under adult supervision." That sentanced finished he turns his attention to Espiria, " What do you know of the Stone Dogs girl?" Mindra turns to stare at Espiria as well. Most strange this girl. Blood 'n ashes! Not again! Neelkan doesn't swear though, or yell the words, instead his hands instantly to to his friends shoulders and he shakes her gently, "Come on, Esp. Snap outta it." Never worked before, don't see why it would now. He looks her right in the eyes, as if trying to get through the fuzzy look in them. When the Gaidin questions her his eyes snap away though and widen. Stone... Dogs...? That word. Could that be what that word means? No more time to worry on it, he looks back at the girl, hoping to see some sign that she's not... where she is anymore. He's even more worried after the small investigating he did... Mindra rises to her feet and smoothly moves over to the novice. "Perhaps you should lie down, child." It is more an order than a suggestion. The yellow sister catches the eye of one of her accepted assistants and they exchange a nod. Espiria sighs softly, mouth making sounds over and over again. Something in the Old Tongue that would be recognized by anyone who was Accepted or Aes Sedai. She says it over and over again, like a mantra of safety. Her head sags a bit and she shakes her head to clear it, blinking at everyone standing near her. "What?" She looks at Neel and sees the look on his face and begins sobbing, "I'm..so sorry. I..said not to speak of war..I said...." She begins sobbing harder as she allows herself to be leaned back against the bed. "I have..to get out of here. I don't want to anger Mother...Oh Please..just let me leave here and go to my room, please?" She didn't even hear Michael's words since she is dazed and confused at the moment, but at least someone did. Sorry, Yellow, but Neelkan isn't letting go of his friend when she starts sobbing. He keeps a hold on her shoulder with one of his hands and says softly, in a rather different voice then he usually uses, "Don't worry, Espi. Remember 'at ya shouldn't worry so much..." Then he glances at the Aes Sedai, "I think it would be best if she go somewhere else actually, Aes Sedai. Please, ya have t' understand 'at she can't stay in 'ere right now." Ack. Title -and- it sounds like he's nearly begging here. This is not the same Neel that sat there and glared at the Yellows all the time. Michael continues to eyeball Espiria as if waiting on an answer frowning when the girl begins to sob before looking to Neelkan. Shaking his head he remains silent and stonefaced two easily mastered Gaidin traits. Mindra is staring at Espiria and is slightly startled when her assistant goes up to her with an wide eyed expression. The woman in the banded white dress leans over and whispers into the yellow sisters ear and then glaces at the novice in an unnerved manner. Mindra nods once to the Accepted and then that frown returns to her face. She looks at Neelkan, "I will have to report about this to Mother. Something odd is going on here and I intend to get to the bottom of it." Turning then to Espiria, "There is no need for sobbing girl. Honestly." Espiria shivers a bit, eyes faling on the Yellow Sedai for a moment before she bites her lower lip. Now, she's gone and done it. But..but...she couldnt' stop it. She shakes her head slowly, trying to stop the flood of tears coming from her eyes. "Please..may I go to my room now. I..would really like to lay down for awhile and I...need to write stuff down for Mother." She sighs softly, "I...really need to write things down, Aes Sedai. Please..can I go to my room before I get into any more trouble than I am?" Michael looks to Mindra Sedai a thoughtful look on his face arms crossing over his chest. Mother? What's with everyone saying Mother? Who's Mother? Neelkan is the guy that called the Amyrlin Seat, Kaomi (and she let him more then once), and oddly enough doesn't know that most everyone else calls her Mother (He hasn't had that explained to him yet, believe it or not). He looks at Espi as she says again she has to write it down for 'Mother', then looks back and focuses fully on the Aes Sedai, eyes pleading, "Look, she isn't allowed t' talk 'bout it to no one. Someone ordered it, 'kay? Ya gotta understand reason 'ere, Aes Sedai. She's upset, 'n somethin' 'ere is settin' 'er off, so will ya just trust m' please? She's m'friend, 'n I'm not gonna just stand by 'n watch as she breaks down in the middle of the Infirmary!" Maybe he shouldn't join the Warder program. This guy is way too emotional, and shows it far too easily. Genuine concern for a friend radiates from him. Mindra frowns at the would be gaidin. "If she falls apart here in the infirmary, probably one of the safest places here in the white tower, what will happen to her beyond the walls? She is a novice and must learn to stand on her own two feet, or she will never be granted the ring and shawl." She glances at the master gaidin for a moment and then shakes her head. Yes, the Aes Sedai suspects something, but what that is, she doesn't seem to be sharing it right now. Espiria sighs heavily, feeling the weight of everyone's eyes upon her where she sits. Well, since it seems as though she isn't going to be allowed to leave anytime soon and the memories are fading with time, she pulls out her notebook and begins writing as quickly as she can while they are fresh. She tries to ignore all the staring going on, biting her lip as she gets all of it..well, most of it down into the notebook before it's gone again. All the feelings...the images...and more importantly what was happening when it happened. She frowns slightly, continuing for a time and trying to block out the feeling of eyes watching her. Michael shakes his head slight and turns his attention on Neeklan, " Boy you should really learn to watch your tongue. Mindra Sedai is just looking out for the girls best interest, and as she said there is not a safer place in the tower for her to break down." Mindra blinks with surprise at Michael. Agreement? Perhaps miracles do happen. She nods at Neelkin, but instead moves over so that she can see what the novice is so furiously scribbling into her book. "How 'bout a place 'here she isn't bein' STARED at like she is!?" Neelkan yells a little more loudly then he should. He clenches his fists and looks like he wants to hit something or someone, but he seems to be keeping it under control, "If ya want 'er t' stand on 'er own too feet, 'en why don't ya let 'er go so she can do what she needs t' do 'n not get watched like a child sittin in the middle of a room full of people!" When the Aes Sedai moves to look at it he tries to intercept her, "Whate'er she is writin' isn't meant f'r ya, lady. It's f'r this Mother person ya all keep talkin' 'bout. 'n unless yer 'Mother' 'en I don't think yer supposed to be peekin' at it." He should know. He was. Mindra frowns and stops as Neelkan moves in front of her. The Accepted and Novices freeze in their tracks and STARE. Not at the novice still scribbling in her notebook, but at the young man who stops an Aes Sedai, a yellow sister in her own infirmary! This is quite the shocker. Mindra for her part puts her hands on her hips and looks up at Neelkin cooly. She is a small slip of a woman, but the power she wields is not slight at all. "You will get control of yourself now, Neelkan. I will not be bullied by a youth in my own place." Espiria widens her eyes at Neel, listening to the words being shot back and forth. Her hands rest on top of the notebook since she is almost done writing what she had to and she blinks. What is he doing? He..shouldn't be...She could...Ohmy. She just has no words. Where Michael was once standing still, now he is moving, and moving towards young Neelkan. Large hands drop down one to the back of the boys shirt, and the other down to the seat of the boys pants grabbing handfuls of material. Hefting the boy like a sack of wheat he hauls him upwards a foot or more off the ground looking to Mindra, " I believe a bath in the horse trough will cool him off. Light Shine Mindra Sedai." Not standing down for an instant, Neelkan looks about ready to tear into the women verbally, then all of a sudden... Eh? He's hauled up in the air by Michael, grabbing onto his clothes and lifting him a foot up into the air. HEEEEY! "Put m' DOWN ya BLOODY BRUTE!!" he yells at the top of his lungs (which is pretty damn loud), flailing about wildly, his face flushing with anger. "BLOOD 'N ASHES!! Ya don't know WHAT yer dealin' WITH!! Put m' DOWN!!" All this is yelled while flailing and kicking about like a five year old. Mindra blinks as the gaidin moves, but she is certainly not surprised. The master gaidin certainly knows his duty! She moves out of the way and mummers, "You are lucky that you are just getting a dunking, boy. Next time...it will not go so easy for you." Low and behold! Look who walks in at the right moment, but the MoNster in this tower. She stops at the door as if to talk to the accepted there, but with the yelling... smokey blue eyes dart to the young boy. She sighs and walks calmly over to the group not interupting yet. Espiria gasps at the sight of Neel being lifted from the ground. Her eyes go wide and mouth dropping open in shock. He was only...He didn't mean...He was just trying... So many thoughts go running thru her mind. None of which she can say since it's a Gaidin's business and not her's. She bites her lip harder this time, shaking her head in worry as she looks back to her notebook. Oh..why is anyone that I know being hurt? Being punished? Is it all because of me? She seems to think so. Neel is just trying to stand up for her in her confused state. Varcel is just trying to be her friend and he gets all confused and involved in things dealing with...the past. Or..even the present. She sighs, shaking her head again as her hand goes to her forehead. It's all so confusing at times and she tries to understand. She tries sooo hard. Her eyes return to see Wynt walk in, blinking. Oh dear. Now she will be in trouble. She was told not to tell anyone about this..and yet it's happened around these people now too. lovely...life just goes from bad to worse. Michael gives Neeklans a good hard shaking enough to prolly rattles the boys teeth as he turns and begins to head out of the Infirmary. " You'll shut you bloody mouth boy," Michael says in a stern voice used to command thousands of troops, and trainees a like. Long strides quickly lead him towards the doors of the Infirmary and from Mindras words after that the stables and a horse trough. "DON'T YA DARE DUNK ME!!" Neelkan yells as he flails about even more, his expression going from anger to some sense of terror (the poor boy is afraid of water...), then back to anger again. He doesn't even seem to heed the words of the Gaidin, "Put m' down 'n go suck on a PIG's tail!!" He kicks out at the man, grabbing, anything to get out of his grip. Sorry, but if the guy seems like he's really going to dunk him in water... the boy now is going to do more then flail and yell. "LEMME GO!! I was just TRYIN' t' help!! Ya don't know what yer doin' is WRONG!!" He's expression and motions are a mix of three different things. Anger. Terror. And... and pleading. They just don't understand!! And sadly, he's too emotional right now to notice Wyn. Mindra sighs as the boy is removed from the infirmary. She inclines her head to the mistress of novices. "It seems our master gaidin is doing well in his duty to the white tower, sister." She watches them both depart with a look of approval. "I am glad that you have come. There is a matter here that puzzles me and I am concerned for one of our Novices." Usually Wyntere will stay out of Michael's business, but Neelkan's face doesn't look like just an angry insolant boy. Wyntere nods to Mindra. "Just a second, Sister. Then I'd be happy to listen." Then she turns to the master Gaidin. "Master Gaidin, what did the lad do to be dragged out of here like that? If he's trying to help, give him a chance to explain. Neelkan, if he gives you the chance, then you better do it respectfully." There is a little warning in her voice more like she's trying to get you a break and if you aren't respectful, you'll blow it and there is nothing she can do to help. Espiria watches in growing horror at Neel's fear. He's not kidding with this. He's really terrified. Her eyes remain on him, but she sighs in relief that Wynt says something to pause the punishment. She'd hate to see Neel go crazy with fear over something..whatever it is. And his face definately wore that expression. She takes a deep breath, staying on the bed and watching as well as she can from the close knit group of people blocking her view. Oh..please Neel...try to calm down and explain. Please? Now she's more worried for him, then for herself. She does feel she's going to be in trouble for what's happened, but that's shoved aside in favor of her friend. Hopefully, Wynt can get this resolved favorablely? Mindra nods with approval as Wynt steps in. It her place to do so after all since she guides the young ones here at the tower. Mindra might be in her element here in the infirmary, but she obviously respects the Mistress of Novices for her position and authority. She merely watches and waits to see what will happen to the young irratant that has invaded her ward. Michael turns his attention to Wyntere as he comes to a brief halt at the exit to the Infirmary. " I have given the boy more than enough chances Wyntere Sedai, when he began to yell at Mindra Sedai enough was enough. Now I suggest that you tend to Novice Espiria while I teach this boy," he hefts Neeklan easily, " How to cool off." "Ya don't understand... What she was doin', 'n what yer doin', is -wrong-..." That part is said so softly it doesn't even sound like the voice that was practically screaming a second again. It's also rather rasped, perhaps from all the yelling he was doing. But the wonder is, now that he's seen Wyn is there all yelling and flailing has stopped. Neelkan seems to have accepted defeat, something anyone who knows him would know he does not do very often. His hands go to his head, palms cover his face and fingers touching his hair. And Michael would probably feel him shaking, even if the others would just think it was the fact that he's being held up. Wyntere frowns when Michael says this. She looks to Neelkan, then back at Michael. "Why was he yelling at Mindra?" Yep, Wynt can't get him from punishment. She looks to Espiria as her name is mentioned. Then the Grey looks torn a moment. But hearing Neelkan's explaination she moves over towards the lad. "Neelkan, I can't get you out of trouble. Yelling at Aes Sedai is not tolerated here and Michael is Master Gaidin. This will come common in your training. But rest assured that I will deal with Espiria." Her blue eyes look into the lad's almost sorrowful that she can't stop the punishment, but there is a warmth when she mentions Espi and almost an assurance that the -right- thing will be down. Espiria sighs softly, feeling a bit dejected that Neel couldn't be helped. She shakes her head, a few tears coming from the sides of her eyes in sorrow for getting him involved and for allowing him to remain with her once she got here. She shakes her head a bit, thinking he would have been better off if he had never known her? Probably. He certainly wouldn't be getting the dunking that he might be getting in the time to come. She frowns deeply, gripping her notebook in tight white knuckled fingers as she looks down and away from Neel. OH Light! Why him! He's so scared...and now...he looks beaten. He never should have to go thru this! " I really don't see how me tossing you in a water trough for yellin at Aes Sedai is wrong boy, " Michael comments to Neeklan as he carries him from the infirmary. " You need to learn to watch your mouth if you hope to every even join my Gaidin program let alone survive it." Mindra moves behind Espiria, now that her protector has been removed and gazes down at her notebook, taking in the words and pictures that she has scribbled there. The yellow sister appears thoughtful once more. Wyntere moves to Espiria's side. She catches the Yellow looking at the notebook and embraces causing the words and things to fuzz too far out of focus to make sense. Smileing down at Espi, Wyntere puts an encouraging hand on the novices shoulder. "Missed seeing you in my office today, espiria." She sounds like she misses the friendly talks. Then looking up at Mindra, "Peace favor you, Sister. Now what about this novice concerns you?" She sounds very interested. Hands covering his face, Neelkan just gets carried out to accept his horrible fate. Entrance Hall, White Tower, Tar Valon The floor forms a beautiful mosaic of color as the seven colors of the seven Ajahs are employed in tiny tile work to form the flame of Tar Valon in all of its glory. Though it appears white from a distance, one needs only bend down to see the fine artistry that went into employing those colors in just the right way to create such an illusion. Seven that make one, a fine metaphor for the Aes Sedai, and the first thing a petitioner would see. Women wearing great serpent rings, their faces young whatever their real age, stride through the area, sidestepping petitioners, white-clad novices, and striped Accepted, for the most part calm and aloof. Novices run through, to grab petitioners or on their way to lessons, either one, wheras the Accepted comport themselves with better decorum. Usually, these days, it is tattered refugees, in grimy clothing, that finds itself huddling within these fine white walls. As often as not, they cannot be helped, whatever titles or sad stories they brought with them when they came. More often than not the denizens of the Tower look straight over the heads of these pathetic souls, staring straight south. As though they could see the enemy over the horizon straight through the perfect white Ogier stonework, and somehow eliminate it with a gaze, a glare, a frown. As if some answer to the growing corner they find themselves backed in will present itself from beneath the tangled hair of one of the refugees. Heads tilt upwards with determination and perhaps a hint of anger, then, and often times will disappear in a swirl of cloak and hemline. Michael continues to haul you along ignoring looks or and mutterings as he passes Aes Sedai and Novices alike. Neelkan doesn't even kick at all as he's carried now. He doesn't even whimper or whine or yell, he just... is there. Courtyard, The White Tower, Tar Valon Marble tiles gleam from a straight path which leads from the Gates of the Tower to the wide double doors which announce its entry point. Soft grass and well planned patches of flowers can be found to either side, with the occasional shady tree. Accepted and novices sit on stone benches, some practicing their Power to the dismay of uneasy petitioners passing through. To the side there is a stable, near the fenced entrance to the clearly visible yard where shirtless boys go through sword forms through the day. Guards take the weapons of those wanting to enter, though the Gaidin spread about the courtyard, seemingly about their leisure, look ready to pounce on any men who "forgot" a dagger at the gates. Aes Sedai pass through on various errands, some nodding to acknowledge bows or curtsies. The atmosphere is busy, but calm. Michael kicks the door open with his right foot proceeding out into the Courtyard, his hands rather full with Neeklan. He glances around a bit before turning towards the large horse trough over by the stables. Long strides lead him in that direction as he heft Neeklan a bit higher into the air. Kayne nods his head slowly, again putting charcoal to paper wearing a solemn expression, 'Yes, we all die sometime... but the goal in life is to live as long as one can, as honorably as one can.' As Michael kicks open the door, the gaidin turns, brow arching up at the sight before him.... now this you do not see everyday. Being carried by the Gaidin, Neelkan has his hands covering his face and he's not doing anything except being carried. Literally. Towards the water trough. What did the boy do to deserve this? Well, with Neel, one can never really be sure. Tiau blinks a few times as the door is pounded open. Tiau frowns a bit at the actions.. "Gaidin? What has the lad done to deserve to be manhandled out of the tower?" Michael continues on towards the trough glancing over to Tiau as he walks, " Mind your buisness Tinker," he replies as he walks. Coming to a halt infront of the water trough he hefts the boy again, high this time to about shoulder level shift his grip as he prepares to cool the boy off. Kayne simply stands back out of the way, watching the whole proceeding with a raised brow. The boy is not being harmed so he does not step up to find out what is going on, believing there must be some reason. If he feels it goes too far then perhaps he will step up, but he had worse happen to him in training then a dunk in a trough. "Violence in any part is my business Brother of Battle." Tiau says, standing over to the side. "Especially when a man is beating on a boy." Neelkan has his hands over his eyes, fingers in his hair, and notices the fact that the man has stopped, and is holding him higher. He shifts his hands and sees the water and literally starts to yell now. Almost scream, "STOOOOOOOOOOOP!!" His voice sounds terrified, and it is. One of his only fears is staring at him with only a Warder's hand keeping it out of being a relaity... But likely this final plead will not stop the gaidin at all. This will only draw the attention of -everyone- in the Courtyard. This is going to be the gossip of the Tower for months... Michael ignores Tiau for the moment as he hefts the boy and swings him out over the water trough before letting him go. Taking a couple of steps back as the boy drops so as not to get wet he finally looks to Tiau, " He yelled at Mindra Sedai, that will not be tolerated, so I'm teaching him to cool off and watch his mouth and his temper." The Tinker doesn't seem impressed. "Do you not think that this will teach him to be more agressive and reactive?" Kayne watches the boy fly into the water, then walks over and offers him a hand out of the trough. He shrugs at the Tinker, obviously okay with the punishment offered here... or at least he does not seem upset. "STOOOOO-" Neelkan trails off in his yell as he hits... the water, probably getting a whole mouthful of it. He comes up sputtering and soaked, flailing about as if he'd fallen into a lake and not a little trough. When the hand is offered he clings to it, body shaking as if the water was cold? No, he's just terrified of it. Using the hand as leverage to pull himself out, he lets go of it a second later and falls to the ground in front of the trough, body curling slightly, eyes closing and coughing up water slightly. " Do you want a bath to little girl?" Michael ask bluntly turning away from the tinker with a look of disgust and a shake of his head. " Bring me Storm," he calls out to the stable hand now moving that way. Tiau chuckles.. "You could not catch me, Brother of battle." Michael ignores the comments from Tiau as Storm is brought out and he climbs onto the back of the massive chargers. Putting heels to the horse moving it onto a canter back towards his army up on the battlefields. Kayne kneels down next to Neelkan, patting him slightly on the back. He shakes his head slightly as he looks up at Tiau for a moment. He then turns back to the boy, making sure that physically at least he is okay. Had he kept his mouth shut he would not be hacking up water, now would he. Hugging himself slightly, Neelkan just doesn't even respond at any touching done to him, but physically he seems alright, except that he's shaking and his breathing isn't exactly steady and his pulse is racing... He isn't even moving except for the shaking and the breathing, spitting of water finished for now. "This is a proper punishment?" Tiau asks of the Gaidin Kayne looks up at Tiau and shrugs again. He pulls out his notepad, leaving Neelkan alone for now and begins writing, 'We must all face a fear or two sometime in life. He will learn that as all who train here do. He needed to be cooled off and he has been... so why would it not be proper?' Tiau rolls her shoulders. "Perhaps I just don't understand." Laying there for a few moments longer, Neelkan finally moves to push himself up, wiping at his face as if trying to get the water off of him as much as he can... But actually he's wiping away tears that are thankfully (for him) hidden by the water all over him. It takes him a little bit longer to work his way up to his feet. Kayne gets to his feet, shrugging again at Tiau as if to say, perhaps she does not. He moves away from Neelkan, allowing the boy to compose himself. He does not seem bothered by the bit of water that got on him, merely standing back, his arms moving to fold across his chest. Taking deep breaths now, Neelkan seems to be a little better, besides the fact that he looks like a drowned puppy, his expression looking more hurt then anything. Like he couldn't believe someone would do that to him... He doesn't say anything, he just runs his hands over his hair, slicking it back so it's no longer in it's usual poofy mess of red and white-streaked locks, the red even darker now and making a much larger contrast to the white streaks, then moves towards the tower again. All his clothes are still in the Infirmary, so he -has- to go back there, even if he was just dragged out. Kayne simply stands back out of the way, allowing you to pass. He says nothing, but then he can not, which would explain that. He makes no move to stop you nor does he look like he will. He keeps his arms folded across his chest, his pose one of relaxation and not readiness. Neelkan just continues towards the Tower, trying not to look at anyone as he leaves a nice trail of water that some poor Novice is probably going to have to clean up once he gets into the Tower itself. No one is here. No one saw this. Or that's what he's telling himself. Infirmary, White Tower, Tar Valon Square in shape, this room is most often abuzz with activity. It contains the normal implements of a teaching infirmary, in fact, it is extremely well stocked with all manner of things: cots, jars, bottles, syringes, bandages, cloths, cabinets, shelves, books and tables along with plenty of hot water. The air has that sterile smell associated with the constant use of redwort, tinged with the unpleasant prickle of witchhazel. While most of the Healing is done via the One Power at the Tower, there are many minor medical situations that are dealt with the old fashioned way. There are several areas curtained off, for patients' privacy as well as for instructional usages. This is a teaching infirmary for the Yellow Ajah, after all. Beds in cheerful colors are lined up in neat rows, providing a comfortable place to sleep after a Healer's tender ministrations. Windows are kept wide open to all for light and fresh air. Espiria glances over to Neel and smiles, moving out of the way for him. "I have to go to see Wyntere Sedai, Neelkan...will you stay with him?" She gives him a good looking over, reaching out to gently tap his arm. "I'll...be able to talk to you later on..alright?" The return of Neelkan. And he looks like a puppy that got dropped in a lake. His expression is one of someone who seems wounded. Wounded and tired. He doesn't look at -anyone- as he moves in, heading towards his bed that has his dry clothes under it. The reason he looks like a puppy that got dropped in a lake besides the wounded expression on his face? He's soaked. Drenched. His clothes are clinging to him, and he's leaving a trail of water. His hair is flat to his face, the red locks now greatly contrasting with the white ones as the red is now much darker. But when Espi speaks to him he glances over and the hurt expression is taken away and replaced with a forced grin, that doesn't touch his eyes, "Ye'h... I'll watch 'im... 'n.. thanks." Espiria nods and sighs gently, concern flickering in her eyes before she tries to be brave as well. Her eyes dart over to Redd and she sighs. She heads for the door squaring her shoulders for her own punishment which will be sure to follow her seeing the MoN. Vorsha looks down at the little guy. "Now what's wrong with you, sweet stuff." she asks with a twinkle. She hasn't noticed Neelkan yet. And that's a good thing. At least, for him. Redd opens his eyes a little, looking up. "Hot... very hot..." Moving to look at Redd a minute Neelkan says, "Lemme change 'n I'll be right with ya, Redd, kay?" He sees the kid has someone talking to him, so he takes this chance to grab a towel and close the curtain around his bed so he can change out of these soaked clothes. Hopefully no one will peeeeek! Vorsha looks up at Neelkan and sighs wistfully. He's all wet and she's got to deal with the sick kid. Oh well. She looks down at Redd and nods. "Can I delve you, sweetie?" she asks with the type of smile that melts hearts of any age. Redd frowns, eyes fighting to keep open. He nods very slowly, the cloth on his forehead completely dry, defeating its purpose of being there. The sound of someone changing comes from behind the curtain. The wet clothes are dropped in a pile, and dry um... small clothes and trousers are handled first. Light, Neelkan can not wait to have his own room and not have to change behind nothing but a curtain in a room full of women. He hasn't even slipped on his shirt yet when he opens the curtain and moves to look down at Redd, shirt in one hand. "Ya need anythin', Redd?" He would have put the shirt on first, but he wanted to take as little time as possible since he was asked to watch the kid... Walking around wet and shirtless? Not a good idea, Neel. Vorsha smiles and puts a hand on his forehead, quickly and easily weaveing the weaves that will tell her what's wrong with him. "Well now, we'll just get you taken care of sweetie, don't worry. I'm Vorsha, by the way. You can call me Vor if you want, cute stuff." she also weaves some nice cool water into the cloth. Redd frowns, eyes fighting to keep open. He nods very slowly, the cloth on his forehead completely dry, defeating its purpose of being there. Vorsha Tai'shor is tall, shapely, and well built. Almond shaped blue eyes regard the world with a touch of humor and mischivious. Her auburn hair hangs low, curled down to her backside. Her features are heart shaped, perky, and with more than a hint of promiscituity. She seems the type to be equally at home in silks or pants, but for now she's in the dress of an Accepted, the golden ring of the Aes Sedai on the proper place. Espiria heads back into the Infirmary after some time has passed, holding her head gently and not showing the signs of what might have happened in the MoN's office. She heads over to Neel, head tipping to one side as she puts on her best brave smile. "How's..he doing?" Standing in front of Redd's bed, Neelkan is changed, at least as far as trousers. He's not wearing a shirt yet, but he has one in hand. He doesn't even glance at the Accepted talking to Redd, frowning down at the boy as if unsure what to do. The Accepted seems to have it under control though, so he doesn't say anything. He should probably put his shirt on though... Neelkan glances at Espi and offers a small smirk, glad to see that she isn't as punished as he was! Silly Gaidin dunking him in the horse trough... Vorsha sighs and shakes her head. "Poor dear. Can't do anything for him..." he looks up at Neelkan, and a bright smile appears on her face. "Friend of yours?" she asks with a smirk. Redd closes his eyes slowly, and he is asleep again. Espiria sighs glancing at Redd for a moment before she smiles at Neel. The Yellow gets her curtsey, neat and tidy just as she was taught before she looks at Neel with concern. "You okay, Neel?" "Ye'h, he is." Neelkan says to the Accepted in answer, shaking his head, wet spikey hair flailing around slightly. "Same as he was yesterday it seems... Startin' t' wish I'd paid more attention t' m' ma when she'd treat m' sisters 'n me when we were sick." He hates feeling useless. "I'm fine, ye'h." -Now- he puts his shirt on. Good boy. Vorsha smiles at the young man and reaches up, pulling the water from his hair with Water, creating a small ball that she sends over to a bucket and drops in. "Don't you worry about a thing, Neel? Was it? We've got everything well in hand. But I suppose if you want to help... you can help me keep his rags wet." Espiria glances between the two of you and then to the resting Redd as she frowns. Well, it seems she's not needed. She glances at the Accepted wondering what she did to be so ignored. She stares down to her hands then, wondering what she might be able to do to help in some way. She bites her lower lip, frowning slightly before she tries once more. "Is there anything I can do Accepted?" "If ya don't mind, Lady, think I'm not gonna have nothin' t' do with water for a lil' while, thanks..." Then Neelkan blinks as he sees the ball of water, and notices that his hair is... dry? He reaches up and ruffles it, and it goes into it's usual mess of spikes all over the place. Ah. Much better. "Uh... 'anks.. But next time ask, please?" No like power used on him. Even in niceness. He smiles at Espi again, but says no more. Vorsha smiles and gives him a quick looking over. "Of course." she says, laying a hand on his arm and squeezing softly. "I'll do just that." she turns to Espi. "Be sure the rag on his forehead remains cool and wet. Be sure that he gets clean bedclothing and the like." she says. Espiria bobs a neat curtsey to Vorsha, smiling as she hurries to her tasks. "Certainly, Accepted. Right away." She does glance over to Neel, lifting a brow at the other woman's attitude toward him. She must not know his rep with women. She grins a bit, shaking her head slightly as she goes to refill the basin with fresh water for Redd. Cough. Clean bed clothing? Light. They're going to change the poor kid? Neelkan looks like he's about to chuckle for a moment. Looking down at the hand on his arm after a moment, he tries to shake it off saying softly, "Would ya mind keepin' yer hands t' yerself?" At least he's being nice. Maybe the trip to the water trough really did bother him more then he's letting on. Pause. Wait a minute... change the kid.. Does that mean they changed HIM when he was in here!? Arg. Must glare at someone. So he glares at the nearest non-friend female. Which is of course the Accepted. So much for being nice. Vorsha drops her hands and /almost/ pouts. But she's an Accepted now and doesn't do that sort of things. The friendliness in her eyes drops away, though. "Of course I don't mind." she says, the noble half of her accent coming back in forth. Bloody kid doesn't know what's good for him in anycase. She walks off towards another patient. She does have chores after all. Espiria widens her eyes just a bit, grinning with her face turned away from being seen. Ohboy, she knew that was coming from Neel. She is glad that it ended as well as it did. Her Ma always used to tell others about those who don't give up as easily and through all sorts of fusses about someone not returning their advances. Ohboy, that was a close call. She does hear the colder tone in the woman's tone, browe lifting slightly but refraining from comment. And nope, she doesn't plan to see him get changed. That wouldn't be proper at all. But she will tell those who would normally do such things that he needs it. Mind now full of icky thoughts of being -changed- by a bunch of evil women, Neelkan is going to have a hard time getting the mental picture out of his head. He actually shifts around a little as if something dirty had crawled under his clothes. "'anks." he finally says to the Accepted again before moving back to his bed to sit on it. There's nothing he can do for Redd, so he's just going to sit there and feel useless and try to get the mental picture of women changing him out of his head. Another reason for him to glare at the Yellows! Vorsha walks over and gets a paitent water, anoter a bite to eat that he needs. She moves about, in a generally huffy mood. Espiria lifts a slim brow, watching the Yellow move along before she slips a grin to her lips and chuckles at Neel. "She is different..isn't she?" She smiles, shrugging her shoulders just a bit as she sighs and replaces the cool compress to Redd's face. "Did...he wake up at all, Neel? I..was rather distracted to notice if he had or not." "Different.. ye'h. 'at's one word f'r it!" Neelkan says with a wide grin, which fades a little and he glances towards the boy, "F'r all of 'bout a minute at most. Said somethin' 'bout bein' hot." He sighs and shakes his head a little, hair ruffling about again. "I wish I could help..." Pause. "Hey, m'be I could help ya by changein' 'im." So he wouldn't have to endure the thought of EVIL women changing the poor boy!! Like NEELKAN has to. Dark, evil thoughs... Arg. Vorsha steps up behind the young man. "I think we can teach you how to do that, yes. It's not like changing someone normally. Sick people need special treatment." Espiria glances around for a moment, nodding as she covers over a giggle. "I think Redd would feel better about that too. He trusts you like a brother and I think he'd feel better with his brother doing that..than strange women doing it." She giggles, blushing brightly at the thought of having to change a male of any age. She'd even blush changing her Da. She darts a glance over to the Accepted, biting back another comment as she notes her nearby. She instead goes back to her placing the compresses on his forehead. "Ya don't need t' teach m'... I can figure it out..." Neelkan darts his head down, letting his hair fall in front of his face to cover up the slight blush on his cheeks that nearly matches Espi. The idea of letting a woman TEACH him to change his adopted little brother. "I can figure it out! Really." He looks up and glares at the woman, the blush still slightly staining his cheeks. -Some-people. Grrr. Vorsha stops and gives the young man a very stern look. "I'm sure you could, but while you are trying to figure it out, you put him in danger. And we can't have that. Like I said, I can teach you how so that you don't hurt him." Espiria hmms softly glancing over to Neel, "Would you at least listen to her, Neel? I mean..you won't be able to help unless you do, Neel and I know you want to be able to help, right?" Forever playing peacemaker in whatever form she needs to, Espi hopes that Neel will just try to grin and bear it till the 'showing' is over. Redd, of course, is silent and motionless. He has no real idea what is going on as of now. "Can ya... Just tell m' how?" Neelkan asks softly, his hair falling over to almost completely obscure one of his eyes. The way he says that and is looking at her with the unobscured eye is almost screaming out the sentance 'Have you no -shame-, woman?' Hehehe. Vorsha sighs. "No, I can't." she says. "Look, I know I don't always seem it, but I /am/ a professional here, okay? I don't do this for kicks or so I can have a great time. I do it to help people." Espiria rises as she finishes placing the cloth on Redd's forehead. She curtsey's to Vorsha, smiling as she glances over to Neel. "Neel...I'm going to have to leave you for today. I...have things I need to do for Wyntere Sedai before i had to bed." She smiles gently, "I will see you tommorrow..alright?" She darts a glance over to Vorsha, trying to maintain her smile. Sighing dejectedly, Neelkan just nods, "A'right, a'right... I'll.. leave 'im in yer hands.." Sorry. The idea of a woman helping him change his little brother is just... It makes him feel almost green. Then Espi goes to leave and he nods, "A'right. Tomorrow. uh... we can have our... talk tomorrow... right?" Sorry, he has to ask. He needs to talk to that girl. He got dunked for her after all! Vorsha sighs and continues about her tasks. Bloody men. Espiria smiles and nods to Neel as she cleans up her area, "Of course, Neel. I'll be around as usual." She chuckles, "If not here wrapping bandages, then in the courtyard reading." She smiles, bobing a neat curtsey to the Accepted again before heading for the door. "See you soon and Light always keep you safe." "See ya soon too." Neelkan responds before looking over at Redd again, then moving to lay back on his little cot. Another night here it seems. Is he -ever- going to get out of this place?! Sigh. He just stares up at the ceiling and tries to wait out the need to sleep, but alas, sleep will eventually come, whether he likes it or not. Vorsha walks over by Neel's bed and looks down at him. "My name is Vorsha." she offers. Neelkan looks over at the women. His eyes narrow slightly, but then he just sighs and says, "Neelkan." Yup. That's all he's going to say. Vorsha sits down on a stool near him, smoothing out her skirts. "It's good to meet you, Neelkan." she says with a soft, warm smile. "Whate'er..." Neelkan says in response, closing his eyes. Right now he wants to sleep just to get away from the strange woman. Vorsha sighs. "You don't like me, do you?" she asks, her voice soft but firm. "Oooohhhh..." Another moan. It looks like Redd is awakening again. "I don't like women in general," Neelkan mutters softly, his eyes still closed. Why is she still talking to him? Is he going to have to glare or something? Grump. But he just doesn't have the strength right now for a full glare. And he'd have to open his eyes. Vorsha sighs and shakes her head. She stands and walks over to Redd. "Take it easy there, sweet stuff." she tells the kid softly, gently checking the rag on his head.