09/01/2000

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.


Laurisa turns to eye the small Sister, lips pursing for a moment. "Too
true. And sometimes the purpose isn't obvious for years."

Espiria glances over to Alys with a grin and nods, "Every cloud does have a
silver lining." She chuckles softly, not thinking about what she just said
as she glances over to Lauri. "I plan on learning as much as possible.
So..I'll be ready for what comes." Her eyes look down for a moment though
as she adds, "If...that's at all possible, that is."

Laurisa's sharp gaze is back on Espiria now. "Why would that be?"

Alys grins back. "And every piece of silver an imperfection. - Learning
everything is a worthwhile goal, but I wouldn't expect to attain it any
time soon. Nobody knows everything."

Stepping out of the practice yard, Neelkan rubs at his odd white streaked
hair and grumbles loudly under his breath, loud enough to carry, though the
exact words are for the most part lost even to those close to him as he
stalks into the courtyard. Just grumbled half-words. And oddly enough, no
matter the time of day, it looks as if he just woke up. Has that ruffled
'just fell out of bed' look about him. Including the fact that his layered
clothing to keep out the chill of winter. Either way, he's not very happy
right now. But then what else is new?

Espiria glances at Lauri, lifting her shoulders. "I'm not sure really. Just
a feeling." She chuckles and glances back over to Alys, "I never expected
to know everything, Aes Sedai. But sometimes things happen..that we don't
expect. I think it's life's way of keeping things running always forward.
Forward toward some goal we can't see." She looks down toward the ground,
"And..life tends to enjoy throwing all sorts of things at us to see just
how we will deal with them. But no matter what it may be..it's a learning
experience for us. No matter the outcome."

Alys nods. "Well. FInally, someone who wants to learn because they want to
learn, not because someone is forcing them to. Always a good sign. And yes,
what you say is true. WIthout learning, everything would stop."

Laurisa's lips press together, no opinion offered at the moment. She merely
just sits back and listens to the exchange.

The grumbling cuts off as the young man catches a familiar voice in the
yard. Neelkan looks over until he sees Espiria, then shakes his head. He
still looks ruffled and not pleased, but he pushes it aside and starts
towards the young Accepted, glancing at the two women with her for a
moment. After a moment of hesitation he does a half-bow to each of them. He
says nothing, but he quirks his eyebrows at the Accepted as if he might
have something he wants to say to her, but isn't going to interupt her
conversation.

A small girl, short and thin, but well toned from years in the outdoors.
She wears either a short skirt or shorts and a loose fitting short sleeved
blouse. Her colors are all earth tones, she is never seen in anything else.
Sometimes she looks like she just sprouted from the ground. Her hair is
straight and black and doesn't quite touch her shoulders. Her eyes are dark
green and her pupils are large. Standing about 5' 5" tall, she is just
barely tall enough to use the great long bow that often times accompanies
her around. Compared to other girls, you might consider her very pretty, or
even beautiful, but somewhat short of ravishing. She cares little for who
looks at her or how, or even how much of her legs she shows from her short
skirts or shorts. To her, the clothes are merely comfortable and allow ease
of motion, which to her is most important. Her smile is sweet if somewhat
aloof, and has already caused her some trouble with men losing themselves
over it. But she has no interest in men yet.

Espiria closes her eyes for just a moment, smiling. "Entropy is the Dark's
hope for all of those who live in the Light. Stagnation...dis-use. It is
our hope always to continue moving forward..toward the goal that Light has
for us and in so doing just this, we continue to thwart the Dark's
designs." She puts a hand to her forehead, darting a glance over to Lauri
for a moment before she clears her throat and tries to continue without
seeming anything odd happened. "Anyway..I know I love learning too much to
let it stop me now." She giggles softly. A nervous sound as though she were
caught doing something she shouldn't have. She does see Neel then, smiling
brightly to him before she tips her head to one side. "Hello, Neel. Did you
need to talk to me about something?"

Laurisa just regards Espiria for a long moment, thoughtful as ever. Then
that sharp regard is bestowed on Neeklan. Lucky Neeklan. She snorts softly
but does acknowledge him with a nod.

Alys nods to Espiria. "Remind me to explain the Brown Ajah to you soon, if
no-one else has done so. I do not remember who has done what."

Laurisa catches Alys' words and smiles faintly. "I think that Espiria is
getting talks from all the Ajahs."

Neelkan can't help but smirk widely at the mention of talking to Espi about
the Brown Ajah, and the grin reaches all the way to his eyes as if that was
the funniest thing he's heard all day. He clears his throat a moment,
glancing towards the two women as if they may be vipers just waiting to
pounce. Not that he seems afraid, just overly aware that they are there.
Then looks back at his Accepted friend and shrugs his shoulders, smile
smoothing a little. "Um. Nothin' important, no." Doesn't seem the truth,
does it? He takes his hand down from his hair finally.

Alys just turns to look at Neelkan. "Hmm? Does something amuse you?" Her
head tilts. "I'm just curious, you see. I'm not used to being grinned at by
people I have never met.

Espiria widens her eyes just a bit to Alys, blushing slightly at Lauri's
words. It's true. They all seem to want her very badly lately. Not that she
understands why, but then..most of what happens to her..she doesn't
understand much of as yet. She glances at Neel though, smiling. She
chuckles softly, shaking her head for a moment before she glances at both
Aes Sedai. "Would you both excuse me for just a moment? I think my friend
needs someone to speak to." She glances at Alys again, raising a brow
before she stands from the bench.

Laurisa regards Neeklan for a long moment before waving Espiria off. "I'll
send Rijin for you later," she states, frowning at the young man.

Raising his eyebrows at the short woman, if anything, Neelkan's grin widens
at the question. "Just find it funny 'at ya wanna talk t' Esp 'bout the
Brown Ajah is all." He's not going to say /why/ he does. But there is a
reason. He blinks at the woman and the grin falters, followed by a shrug
and a grumble of, "'least I could 'pect." Then he raises his hand back up
and motions to Espi, "Ya don't have t'." But oddly enough, he starts moving
away from the /women/ without adding more.

Alys squints at Neelkan, but doesn't press him. "Speak away, then," she
says, allowing Espiria to go - like she had a choice in the matter.

Espiria glances at the two women, bobbing a curtsey to both before she
smiles, "Certainly, Laurisa Sedai." She turns and heads over to Neel,
tipping her head slightly to one side before lowering her voice alittle,
"Neel? You want to talk here? Or..umm...I mean depending on what it is."

Laurisa looks away from the Accepted, settling on Alys instead. "You've
emerged, Sister," she states quietly.

There's a brief pause, then Neelkan glances at the two Aes Sedai for a
moment. Then shakes his head, "Prolly best somewhere else." He pulls his
clothes around him a little and adds, "'n somewhere inside would be good
too."

Espiria chuckles and nods, "Hmm...I feel like a bit of something to eat.
Would the Dining Hall work alright for you?" She glances back over to the
doors, tipping her head then back over to Neel in a questioning way.

Alys nods to Laurisa. "I have, indeed, Sister. I'm done studying in private
fo rnow. Either I'm to actually do something, or I should at least come out
and share it with the Tower," she says. "So, I'm out."

Lithlori walks up to the gates, leading her horse by the rains, a few
things strapped to the horse's bare back indicate a journey just took
place, including a longbow that is half again the height of the girl
leading the horse, could that be hers, or is she a servant for someone
else? She stops and talks to the guards a little bit before they take the
reins for her and lead the horse away to the stables. She watches the horse
go for a second, and the walks slowly into the courtyard looking this way
and that. She smiles when here eyes fall on the gardens, but the rest of
the place she gives a little frown. She continues to wonder aimlessly into
the courtyard like she doesn't know where else to be.

Neelkan glances back at the two Aes Sedai, then shakes his head a little,
muttering some random comment he probably shouldn't about women. Sounds
like a Red sister, reversed... He nods to Espi, "Ye'h. Somethin' t' eat
wouldn't hurt." And continues towards the Tower doors. His eyes catch the
young girl with the huge bow, and he just shakes his head, muttering
another bit about women he probably shouldn't. No offense, Esp.

Laurisa chuckles softly, hand brushing her hair back. "Its more interesting
out here anyway," she replies, voice dry. "I never have understood how
people can study without reprieve in their rooms." She spots the newcomer
to the courtyard, eyes narrowing a bit as she watches her. No offer of
greeting is made, the woman merely waiting.

Espiria heads inside after a chuckles at Neel's view in general of women.


Dining Hall, White Tower, Tar Valon

One may see, here, a huge buffet table full of every type of food
imaginable, from nearly every part of the known world. Occasionally empty
plates are removed and replaced, for there is no common eating time for any
but the students. Most eat when they remember to, or find the time. Other
tables are present. Some have broad cloths thrown over them, in the color
of the Ajah that normally sits there. Others are left plain, indicating a
table at which anyone may sit.

Bobbing lights, produced by the One Power, emit a soft glow, replacing the
need for candles and lamp oil, whose supplies are growing short each day
and which are getting quite expensive. Occasionally as some fade an
Accepted will walk in and replace them. The floor, white, is kept
meticulously clean and scrubbed. No sooner does some morsel find its
accidental way to the ground than someone is along to sweep it up and throw
it away.


Espiria glances over to you after she enters, "I'm sorry, Neel. That
Laurisa Sedai.." She sighs, shaking her head. "I sometimes feel like a bug
being watched so closely as she does watch me sometimes."

Moving into the Dining Hall, Neelkan moves to steal a place in the lines to
grab a few things, no doubt earning the looks he always does. He's careful
to only do it to Novices and Trainees though. Anyone else he avoids. He
grabs some pieces of bread and a heated bowl with some buttery dipping
thing that smells of garlic. It's enough of a snack for him, along with
some warm tea. Though ale would be so much better. "The blond one? Whoe'er
'is Rijin is, I'm gonna 'void 'im I think." He smirks lightly, then starts
towards a table, after waiting to see if you'll get anything.

Espiria reaches for a plate, chuckling softly as she picks up a few things
that seem to be edible today. Yumm..meat pockets with some kind of sauce
for dipping. She shrugs a shoulder, reaching for a glass of tea before she
shivers. "Well...Gaidin Rijin is her Warder. But...he makes me feel very
incomfortable sometimes. Winking..making lewd gestures at me when Laurisa
Sedai isn't looking." She shrugs, "I don't like either of them all that
much...and that's really hard for me to say." She sighs softly, taking what
she's chosen and heading over to one of the empty tables. She slips into a
seat, setting her things down.

.... "Well, in that case, I think I'll offer t' spar with 'em. I'm better
'en some of these Warders sometimes." And anyone making lewd gestures at
/his/ Espi deserves a few bruises. Moving into a seat close enough to carry
on a whispered conversation, Neelkan puts his plate down and peers into the
garlic butter for a few moments before saying, "I've been havin' a dream.
The same dream. F'r the last three nights. It's drivin' me nuts. 'n I..."
He trails off and shakes his head, muttering as he tears off a piece of
bread, dips it and eats it.

Espiria is seated across from Neel at an empty table on the far side of the
room. Thier voices are lowered and each has something in front of them that
they take time now and then to sample. Espi purses her lips and nods to
Neel, "Well..I said I would listen to anything like that, Neel.
Please...tell me if you can and maybe we both can figure it out together."
She smiles, reaching for her tea to take a sip.

A girl of about 5 and a half feet and dressed in shorts and a loose long
sleaved shirt of all earth tones enters the dining room and begins to look
around like she is on some self guided tour of the tower. She certainly has
never been here before. Lithlori watches what people are there and takes in
the place as she wonders around.

Neelkan dips his bread into the bowl again, but doesn't immediately put it
in his mouth. Instead he furrows his brow, looking like he would rather not
say anything at all, until he starts to speak, in hushed tones. He mutters
to Espiria, "I don't really... it, 'cept 'at... swords.... I think,...
crossed in a... stickin' upright outta... was snow... 'en... don't... else
t'... was... out... but almost... back by..."  He shakes his head, shoving
the bread into his mouth and looks as if he'd rather be talking about
something else. He catches in the corner of his eye the young girl who was
out in the courtyard as he chews away on the bread.

Espiria senses "Neelkan dips his bread into the bowl again, but doesn't
immediately put it in his mouth. Instead he furrows his brow, looking like
he would rather not say anything at all, until he starts to speak, in
hushed tones. "I don't really know how t' 'cribe it, 'cept 'at at first
'ere were 'ese swords. Silver I think, 'r at least silver in color, crossed
in a field, stickin' upright outta dirt. 'n 'ere was snow 'round 'em. 'en
'is... shadow... I don't know how else t' describe it... 'is shadow 'at
just felt... /wrong/ was streaching out towards 'em, but almost seemed... I
dunno... held back by the snow?" He shakes his head, shoving the bread into
his mouth and looks as if he'd rather be talking about something else. He
catches in the corner of his eye the young girl who was out in the
courtyard as he chews away on the bread."

Espiria rubs her chin gently, thinking this over for a bit as she takes a
bit of the meat pocket and dips it into the bowl next to her. She chews
quietly, letting all of the images run thru her mind as she tries to
imagine seeing it as it was seen. She mutters to Neelkan, "Hmm..I'm...
seems... though they... image... them... Dark... take..." 

You sense Espiria rubs her chin gently, thinking this over for a bit as she
takes a bit of the meat pocket and dips it into the bowl next to her. She
chews quietly, letting all of the images run thru her mind as she tries to
imagine seeing it as it was seen. "Hmm..I'm not sure about the swords. It
seems as though they are an image for something else. Maybe the snow is an
image of what protects them and the...shadow you saw might be the Dark
trying to take the swords. How many swords were there?"

Lithlori studies the faces of the people in the area, she'll probably have
to remember them later. As she looks around, she sees the two that were in
the courtyard not a few minutes ago. They look nice and friendly, well,
I'll have to meet a few people sooner or later, might as well be now, I
hope they don't mind. With that she wonders over to the table where Espiria
and Neelkan are sitting, cautious in case they don't want to be disturbed.

"'ere's more." Neelkan says after a moment with a sigh, closing his eyes
and leaning to press his head against his forehead, as if trying to
remember. "I don't know how t' 'xplain it, but... blood 'n ashes, Espi, it
just... /changed/. Like... one thin', 'en suddenly 'nother!" He's raised
his voice a little this time, partly from confusion, partly because he's
upset at his own ability to understand what is happening. After a quick
glance around the room, which stops on the girl who sits with them for a
long moment, then he lowers his voice again. In the middle of it somewhere
he trails off in a shudder and grows a little white in the face. In fact,
he looks as if he doesn't want to eat anymore.

Neelkan mutters to Espiria, "It changed... a field.... walls,... it felt...
It... like 'ere... any life... a... was dead. 'n... was... of... saw..."

You whisper "It changed int' a place then, not a field. 'is place with
walls, 'n... bloody Light, it felt wrong. It felt like... like 'ere wasn't
any life 'ere at all. Like... ... like a place where e'erythin' was dead.
'n 'ere was 'is... hand. 'is red hand. And it was searching the walls of
the place, but I ne'er saw who the hand belonged t'..." to Espiria.

Espiria glances over to the girl, smiling gently as she holds her hand up
to Neel for just a moment. "Hello. Are you new here?" She tips her head to
one side as she glances back over to Neel and shivers. "Let me think about
that for a few moments, Neel. Then we can try to figure it out together. I
know we will..just..try not to let it bother you so badly." And yes, she
knows that's like trying to make the sun come up at night, but what else
can she say at the moment?

Lithlori gives Espiria a small smile, "I hope I am not interrupting
anything." She says and watches to see if she really is, after all, that
guy, Neel?, yeah that's what she called him, he didn't look like he was
happy with her presence. After a pause she continues. "Yes, I just arrived
a little while ago. I have been looking around a bit. Do you live here?"
She says, trying to make light conversation. Her voice is soft and a bit
melodious, and her Old Tounge is very crisp and accurate.

Closing his eyes again, Neelkan just lowers his head a little and puts a
hand in his odd, white streaked red hair. As if doing such will just take
him away from all the things he wants to be away from. After a few moments
he waves the free hand in the direction of the girl as if telling her he
doesn't care if she says or not. He just needs a few seconds to breathe.
But he doesn't seem to settle himself completely, or calm down either. When
he does look up he manages a forced smirk and snorts softly, "Live 'ere?"
As if that's the most disgusting thing he'd ever heard, but a second later
he shudders lightly again and grumbles something, then nods, "Ye'h, ye'h.
I'm trainin' with the Gaidin 'ere. Though I'd love t' have a place in the
city..." Or more specifically, his own /room/. His words are torn up in a
very thick accent. Southern almost. Or Northern Eharon to be accurate. Or
at least 'common folk' accent. Odd. Doesn't look very Eharon, does he?

Espiria glances over to Neel, placing a gentle hand on his arm as she
smiles. She just takes a moment for this, perhaps to tell him it will be
alright. Her eyes then tip over to the girl, smiling as she nods. "I'm an
Accepted of the Tower. Are you here to visit us? Or perhaps to stay with us
and learn?" She seems genuinely curious about that before she thinks of
something else and glances over to Neel, whispering softly softly to him.

Espiria whispers "Have you told Wyntere about any of this as yet?"

Lithlori doesn't look Eharon either, at least not the way she is dressed,
but her dress doesn't match her speech either. But she recognizes his
accent, a shame he seems a bit put out at the moment, or at least that is
what she hopes his actions are due to. It would be nice to have a friend
from her own country here. but he doesn't seem to be in the best spirits
right now. She has something that might sooth him, but no, that is still on
her horse, besides, if the Aes Sedai can't help him, how could she.
"Visiting at the moment," she say lightly, "but perhaps I might stay to
learn if I find it advantagous to do so." She looks around at the building
appraisingly. "How long have you been here?"

Shaking his head, Neelkan mutters, "No." in response to whatever it is Espi
said softly to him. He rubs a hand through his hair again, then glances
down at the bowl he was dipping his bread into earlier and suddenly
remembers something. He starts up straight in his seat and looks shocked,
then says, "Oh Light... 'ere /was/ more... blood 'n ashes..." He looks
almost like he wants to add something, but he cuts off and looks at the
girl at the table with him and Espi and settles back into his seat...
slouching again. He remembers the last part now. He'll tell it later. He
grumbles something about 'Far too long' in response to how long he's been
here.

Espiria glances over to Neel again, biting her lip. She really /has/ to
speak to Neel about this, but then..there is this girl.
Decisions...decisions. She offers a smile to the girl, nodding in an absent
way as she worries for her friend. "I've been here a very long time now,
but I've learned so many wonderful things so far and it just seems to get
better as it goes." She chuckles, "I wouldn't change anything..."

Heads into the dining hall and moves to get a bite to eat. She really
doesn't look around just yet. This Mistress seems to be in deep thought
about something and just can't shake it off her mind.

Lithlori gives Neel a level stare, Hmm, one who likes it, and one who
doesn't. It is obvious to her the way Neel looks at her that she is
inturrupting, so, she'll leave them be, she doesn't want to impose, but whe
will ask one more question before she goes. "What is it that you don't care
for here Neel? What perturbs you about this place?" and then to Espiria,
"You wouldn't change anything? Miss....." She asks as if there must be
something, that and she doesn't know your name yet, and she would like to
before she leaves.

Neelkan shakes his head a little, "It's not 'at I don't wanna stay... I
just... this place is an island. Run by women. Though, some'a the women're
nice... so 'at's a'right too... but... I dunno. It just gets on m' nerves
sometimes." Coming from an Eharon? What? He isn't /used/ to being the
'secondary citzen'? Well, apparently not. He adds a second later, "It's not
really 'at I want t' leave, I just... 'ere's other places I would rather be
'en... 'ere. But... 'ere're people who're 'ere who I'd rather not... leave
either." He glances at Espi for a long 'meaningful' moment then takes a
drink from his untouched tea.

Espiria glances at Neel for a moment, smiling softly before she looks back
over to Lith. She chuckles softly, "No..I wouldn't change a thing. Except
maybe for friends to never have to face the dangers that fighting against
the Dark sometimes causes." She lifts a shoulder before she adds, "I'm
Espiria. It's a pleasure to meet you...Oh..I'm sorry. I never asked you
what your name was." She blushes, shaking her head. "Sometimes my mind is
working so hard even I can't keep up..."

Looking over the dining hall now, Wyntere heads towards the table with
Espiria sitting at it. "Accepted, do you mind me bothering you for a
moment?" then a soft smile comes to wyntere's face at the sight of neelkan.
"Hello, Neel. It's good to see you." A gentle nod goes to the new girl
there.

Enter, the evil one, the reason Neel is the way he is, or at least part of
the reason. Aidou! Dun dun duh! She looks a little impatient at the moment,
though as usual she has a sweet smile for just about everyone except her
brother. Whatever it was she was doing though is dropped immediately as she
sees who he's sitting with and hurries over. Is she trying to sneak up
behind him? It's possible... I certainly wouldn't put it past her. She
pounces him from behind, startled or not and floofs his white streaked
hair, "'ey ol' man." She grins and curtsies to Espi and Wynt and smiles to
Lith before inviting herself to join them. "Wha's goin' on?" Ok, so maybe
she said that a little too loudly, a little too close to his ear, but..
she's a big sister. It's her job to tease.

Lithlori nods at Neel, she understands the 'people you do not want to
leave' part, but not liking women? from an Eharon? that is peculiar. "I
hope you find that place you would rather be someday." She says as she
stands. She smiles at Espiria, "A pleasure to meet you Espiria, my name is
Lithlori." She gives a slight put perfect and proper curtsey to Espi as a
greeting. Well, she going to let them get back to their quiet conversation
that Neel seemed to need, but I guess that is over for now. But
nonetheless, one less to bother them is probably better. "I didn't mean to
bother you. Perhaps another time." she says and then begins to turn to
leave.

Arg... Not /her/. Neelkan is gasping at the appearance of Wyn when his
sister comes up behind him. Wyn was just mentioned! Talk about naming the
Dark One... But he doesn't even have time to respond to the Aes Sedai's
greetings before he suddenly has a novice pouncing on him from behind and
floofing his hair. "Erk!" He's already in a bad enough way this morning,
and this startles him pretty badly until he hears the voice and the
nickname. "Blood 'n ashes, Aidou. Don't /do/ 'at." Grrr. He glares over at
her for a few moments, then grumbles, "Nothin' ya have t' worry 'bout. Just
havin' a bloody snack." Finally he responds to Wyn with a small grin.
"'ey." He's too distracted to do much more then nod to the newcomer. Yup. A
woman hating Eharon. Strange, ain't it?

Espiria glances over to Wynt, smiling brightly. "Not at all Wyntere Sedai.
Neel and I were just discussing needing to speak to you about something."
She glances over to Aid, frowning slightly. "Please refrain from doing
that, would you Aidou?" Her eyes dart over to Lith as she smiles, "It was a
pleasure meeting you, Lithlori. We can have a chat later on, if you have
other questions you want to ask." She smiles, tipping her head back to
Wynt, "Did you need to speak with me privately? Or?"

Wyntere glances to those at the table once and then her smokey blue eyes
fall on Lithlori. "Lithlori, please stay. I'll need to see you at some
point. My name is Wyntere Sedai. I'm the Mistress of Novices here. We
should talk about your talent." Then glancing to Aidou. "Please, I know
he's your brother, but it's not necessary to bother him like that."
Alright, back to espiria. "Espiria, I just wanted to tell you thank you for
my life and I wanted you to have this." She places a small rectangular blue
marble box on the table by Espiria.

Aidou bats her eyelashes at Espiria, quite innocently, "Do what, Accepted?"
She's been doing this so long she doesn't realize there's anything wrong
with it. But then Wyntere spells it out for her and she blinks a little.
Yes it is necessary Wyntere Sedai. What she can't even tease her own
brother? Normally she's nice and complacent when the rules make sense, but
this is just silly. So she doesn't say anything, except that she puts her
hand on Neel's head. She doesn't pat his head per se, and it could be
construed as just an affectionate family thing, except that she
surreptitiously sticks her thumbe into the very spot where she knows he'll
have a bruise from the other day when she beaned him with one of her logs.
It's as if she thought it was his fault she got yelled at. Of course.. it
doesn't matter whether he did anything to deserve it or not. His being
there is reason enough. She has something to talk to Espiria about too, but
it can wait till the MoNster is done with her.

Glancing at Espi, Neelkan actually gives her a small glare for a moment,
then looks over at Wyn and mutters, "Don't worry 'bout it. She just
startled m'.." He suddenly flinches and his eyes widen as she thumbs his
bruise, but he bites down on his lip for a moment and finishes, "...is all,
Wyn..." Wyn? He talks to the Mistress of Novices like that...? Yup. He
pulls his head out of the hold, and looks at Espi as if saying 'I told you
so', then blinks at the box that she just handed over to Espi and leans
down to peer at it. Well, blue marble. At least it isn't a bowl or
anything. He shrugs his shoulders lightly. "Neat." He already got his
'reward'.

Lithlori looks at Wyntere, weighing the Sedai with her eyes. An Aes Sedai
Hmm? A little different than the only other she has ever met. She doesn't
seem as ... hard. But at least she doesn't seem soft, only time will tell I
guess. "It sounds like word has preceded me?" She says with just a hint of
irritation. She wanted to look around and meet a few people and form her
own opinion of the place before sat down to discuss it with an Aes Sedai.
"As you wish Aes Sedai." She sits down gracefully and watches the Aes Sedai
intently.

Espiria blinks, widening her eyes slightly at the lovely little box,
reaching over to it tentatively and picking it up, "Wyntere Sedai..you..."
She blushes brightly, turning it over in her hands before she says softly,
"I..just couldn't sit back and see it happen, Wyntere Sedai. I did what was
right..and that needs no real reward except that justice was done." She
does smile though and opens the box. Music begins to come from it and
anyone how has been around Espi can tell that it's playing the same tune
she hums frequently when she's by herself. The viloin and flute making it
sound lovely as it comes from the small box. "Oh!" She giggles brightly,
closing her eyes and listening to the tune. Her tear filled eyes open and
she can't help but reach over to Wynt and give her a strong hug this time.
"Thank you, Wyntere Sedai...thank you so much." She closes the small box,
letting the music stop as she leans over to Neel and whispers to him.

Espiria whispers "We can get Wyntere Sedai to speak with us once she has a
moment. I think she would want to know about your..umm..thing too."

Wyntere hugs Espiria back and then nods to Neelkan. "As you say, Neelkan.
I'll leave her to your hands." Then glances to Lithlori, Wyntere nods. "I
just know these things, Lithlori. Fear not, talking to me isn't that bad.
Ask Espiria or Neelkan here. Even Aidou knows I'm not that bad." Wyntere
chuckles. Boo! Ooo.. I'm a MoNster!

Aidou watches everything with a soft smile on her face, though she does
give Neel's hair a good tousleing as he covers for her. Not that she much
like's Wyntere's way of refering to it, but she'll deal. Her eyes do
twinkle more mischeviously as she watches Espiria whisper in her brother's
ear. She watches to see if he blushes before nodding to Lithlori. "She's a
far better Mistress 'an 'lanta Sedai," but then.. she's biased. And she
just has to correct Wyntere, "'n it's Shun'u, not chi- Neelkan." Honestly!
What kind of name is Neelkan? "I think I'm going ta get myself somethin' ta
drink, would ya like anything," she asks of Lith, and Espi, and Wyn, but..
alas her sweep doesn't include the trainee. She's from Eharon as well, in
case anyone was wondering :)

"Wyn's great." Neelkan mentions with a meaningful grin, even after
listening to the music box and watching his friend have an emotional
moment. Women. He blinks at what is whispered to him, then nods. "I know...
I know... Blood 'n ashes, ya think I don't?" Of course he flinches at the
mention of his real name, as if she'd hit him over the head with one of
those logs instead. "M' /NAME/ is Neelkan, /Aidou/!" He glares at his
sister, just asking to get hit. But then, she is right. His real name is...
Shudder. Shun'u. But it's so... eck! He just glares at her and grumbles,
"'n I a'ready got somethin' t' drink." So what if she wasn't asking him!

Lithlori reserves her own judgement, she certainy doesn't seem that bad,
but just what is she, well, Llithlori will just have to accept their
opinion till she has reason to form her own. Glancing at Aidou, "No
thankyou Aidou, I am not thirsty." Returning her gaze to Wyntere she says
politely, "Very well, Aes Sedai, what would you like to talk about?"

Wyntere looks to the group. "No thank you on the drink, Aidou." Glancing to
the others at the table, Wyntere gives them a nods. "I'll see you later
neelkan and Espiria." Alright.. last but not least. "Lithlori, will you
join me for a walk while we talk? I need to head back to my office.
Perhaps, you'd like to see it or more of the tower?" The Gray is friendly
enough and isn't really puchy too much.

Espiria tips her head back over to Aidou and scowls for a moment. This is
one time she's glad she never had siblings. She sighs softly, glancing over
to Neel again as she smiles. The lovely box in her hand, she tips her head
gently toward the desert section. "You want to go over with me to pick
something out, Neel?" She's hoping he will get the hint and go with her for
a moment or two of privacy. Sheesh. It's getting so noone can see anyone
else and have a quiet chat without everyone and his cousin showing up all
at one time. She chuckles at Neel, hoping he seems to humor in all of this.
Light knows he sure could use some humor at the moment. Her eyes do dar
tover to Aidou for a moment before she gently asks, "I can speak with you
in a moment Aidou once I finish with Neel here. Besides..we have some
catching up to do.." She grins at the girl, trying to make her feel
welcome. Espi is curious why she was gone for so long.

Espi smiles at Wynt, nodding as she bobs a curtsey to her. "Thank you,
Wyntere Sedai."

"Thankyou Aes Sedai, I would like to see more of the tower." With that she
stands and walks towards the door with Wyntere.

Aidou chuckles and grins at the two of them, that twinkle in her eye again,
"Oh, I understand. I'll leave ya two alone." She gives Shun'u a wink before
quickly ducking into the kitchen to get her drink.

Neelkan looks at Espi, shakes his head and says for one of the first times
angry with her, "I told ya not t' do anythin'." He shakes his head and
slouches into the chair for a moment, looking down at what's left of his
bread, the butter dip is almost dried up though, so he isn't going to be
using it anymore. He watches as the Mistress of Novices goes, and then
watches as his sister goes and looks even more miserable because of the
wink perhaps? "Ya really don't know what ya just did, Esp..."

Espiria scowls over at Neel, "Oh..and you would just rather I sit here and
listen to her drivel? I'm sorry, Neel..but I couldn't just do that. She's
an annoying..arrogant...little pest and I can see why she was sent to that
farm." She glares at the kitchen doorway and then back over to Neel. "I'm
sorry if I just couldn't choke down what I wanted to say..or keep my lips
buttoned like you would have wanted me to, but I can't just sit here and
let her walk all over you like that. It's not right!" And yes, she's very
ticked off as well, eyes and face showing it plainly.

"No she isn't, Espi." Neelkan says, shaking his head a little and still
looking upset. Though not exactly ticked off, just... upset. "I told ya, if
ya said anythin'... Blood 'n ashes. Now she's convinced 'at we're---." He
stops and shakes his head, then runs fingers through his hair. He really
can't deal with things like this right now. "She's just... bloody Light..."
He rubs at his eyes with his hand, then takes a few deep breaths. "Just...
try Esp. I'm used t' it, 'n I don't need ya protectin' m' either."

Espiria scowls and stares at her food, shoving it away from her after a
moments thought before she rises from her seat. "All I can say is I'll try,
but if she bothers you one more time..I'll letting loose Neel because it
isn't right. I don't care where she's from. She's not there now..and there
is proper behavior to follow being a member of this Tower. As for what she
believes... She's more of a child than an adult if she thinks anything was
going on between us over something that I say. If she can't learn to curb
her tounge or to stop if from wagging about things she doesn't
understand...she will always be in more trouble then she can ever handle.
The sooner she learns that lesson..the sooner her life here will go
smoother than it has been." She takes a deep breath trying to steady her
nerves. "YOu /don't/ need this kind of thing from her, Neel. You don't
deserve it either...and I know for one I won't put up with it. My friends
don't deserve to have their every waking moment filled with the worries of
some family member making life harder than it already is on them. Men are
equal here, Neel. Have always been and the sooner she realizes that /fact/,
the sooner her life will start growing. Right now all she is a stagnant
pool of water, Neel. All she can see is what she believes...and she can't
see beyond that because she won't let herself. She will end up hurting
those around her if it doesn't stop...."

"Espi... Men are /not/ equal 'ere! Perhaps ya have t' be one t' see it, but
it's true, blood 'n ashes!" Neelkan says, pointing around the room. "Who
d'ya see with the best tables, huh!? Aes Sedai. Aes Sedai. /Women/. Who d'
ya have t' bow 'n scrape t'!? Aes Sedai! Ye'h, Gaidin 'r /said/ t' be
'equal', but give it a rest, 'cause 'eir not! A Gaidin's rank is determined
by his bond f'r the most part, unless he's unbonded, 'en it's by his
position, if he has one." He growls and lowers his voice down, "'n ya don't
tell m' how t' act, so bloody Light, don't tell m' sister! 'er beliefs 'r
her own, just like mine 'r m' own! Ya haven't e'en spent an hour with 'er!"
.... The real question is why is he so frustrated at his friend who he has
very strong feelings for... and defending his sister? Who is for the most
part the source of many of his person problems? "Just... blood 'n ashes,
she's m' /sister/ Esp." Who he wishes to avoid, claims he hates at every
turn, but wants to defend now? He lowers his hands down to his knees and
grips them there, calming his voice down so he'll stop yelling. "I'm
sorry... I'm not really angry with ya, just... ...I dunno, but yer not
gonna teach 'er any lesson 'at way. Yer just gonna make things worse." He
reaches up and rubs his head lightly. The bruise she was pressin' on is
proof of that. "Please, just let m' handle 'is."

Espiria leans back as you begin your tirade. Not like she used to being
yelled at by you. Well the fact is..she isn't. You've never ever once
raised your voice to her and now this? Maybe you like being abused by your
sister? Maybe your sister has you so brainwashed that it's just acceptable
to you? In any case, Espi lowers her eyes, wincing back a flow of tears
from coming at your words. Men are equal. Sure they have different tasks,
but didn't they /ask/ to do them? Didn't they come here because they felt
it was going to make a difference in guarding AS? They can't guard
themselves /all/ the time and Gaidin are /very/ important for that fact.
Gaidin..well, without them AS would have lost the battle a very long time
ago against the Dark, but she doesn't say any of this. You've made it quite
clear that you don't want the help..don't need the help. Or feel that the
help will only make things worse. She nods silently, picking up her dishes.
"Alright, Neel." This is said in a very soft voice and one that is slightly
sad that you would rather be beaten up by your sister or suffer more sorrow
and mental upsets at her hands..than even take the chance for some peace
once again. "I'll..abide by your wishes, but I /don't/ have to like it."
She turns away, heading over to put her dishes into the bins.

No, he doesn't enjoy it. It's the reason he ran away from home to begin
with. Neelkan just was raised to believe she has every right to treat him
however she wants to. Even in the Tower, he's never physically tried to
stop her from pinging him over the head, or anything like that.. Yelled at
her, yes, but never tried to stop her. Standing up to women in general was
something he didn't learn until he was with the bandits for a while, and
was exersized to a minor extent here in the Tower. Too bad he still can't
stand up to his sister. But at your reaction... he blinks and inwardly
wants to just hit himself a dozen times. He instantly stands up, reaching
out to try to catch your sleeve as he says, eyes just as sad, "I... Espi..
I'm sorry. Really... Light, I'm not mad at ya. I just..." He scowls, but at
himself instead of anything else. "I'm sorry..." He lets his hand drop away
and turns to pick up his own plate and things now.

Espiria shakes her head quietly at you as she turns around from placing her
things in the bins. "Nothing to be sorry for, Neel. You will deal with it
as you are able. The rest of us who have to watch it happening..will just
have to deal with that." She seems cooler now, just a bit distant as though
she doesn't want to show the pain that you just gave her in saying what you
did. You have enough pain to deal with. She sighs, "I would like to
continue our discussion though about that..." She glances around for a
moment, then continues since very few are in the area you both are. "That
dream you had. If you don't mind, that is." And yes, she's being just a bit
curt about it. What you said hurt and she can't help it that her words
reflect that hurt just a bit.

Dumping his not even finished plates into the bins, Neelkan looks at you
for a long moment before turning away. "I'm sorry." He still mutters
anyway, rather softly. He then takes a deep breath and nods a little. His
dream. Of course. That's a much better subject. Though right now he wants
nothing more then just for you not to be hurt. But he says nothing about
it, instead just explains softly, looking down at an empty table. "The last
part was 'bout a bowl. I don't know how else t' explain it. A bowl. Made
of... stone. Rock. Blue, cloudy crystal. 'n the colored parts seemed to
a'most be movin' 'round. 'is part was only in t'nights dream, 'n... 'n
right after the bowl thing... the swords. The silver swords. The one the
snow was protectin'.. I saw 'em 'gain, 'n... 'ey broke. 'ey just fell
'part..." His voice is sad, and disturbed, and even a tinge of anger,
though directed at no one but himself right now.

Espiria tips her head to one side as she nods. Yes, the dream is a much
better topic. Well, at least in most cases anyway. She motions back to the
table so the both of you can sit down again, "Alright. Now...let's go back
to the swords. Can you tell me how many there were? How many swords were
there that were being protected by the snow." That would be an odd
statement for anyone hearing it, but thanfully the dining hall is nearly
empty now so there is no chance of being overheard at the moment.
"And...could you tell if the swords had any markings on them? Anything at
all?" She slips into the seat, rubbing her forehead a bit as she puzzles
this out. "We'll just take a bit at a time..and see what we can find out
and then put it together and see if it makes any sense that way."

"Two." Neelkan says, keeping his voice lowered, settling into the seat and
running fingers through his hair. Also, he is avoiding looking at you for
now as well. Directly at least. "I didn't see any markin's, 'cept 'at 'er
were crossed. 'n silver." He shrugs his shoulders, and rather hopes that
this is just a weird dream he's not meant to understand. He doesn't want
his dreams coming true. He wants to avoid accepting this... 'Talent' of
his. Though it's fairly clear already that he can't just ignore it.

Espiria purses her lips for a moment, noting the arrival of another person
into the Tower Dining hall. She turns back to Neel and lowers her voice
once more as she rubs her chin in thought, She mutters to Neelkan, "...
We... means... might mean they... from... perhaps just work... move...
the... the snow surrounded... a shadow... it's... though... chased it..." 

You sense Espiria purses her lips for a moment, noting the arrival of
another person into the Tower Dining hall. She turns back to Neel and
lowers her voice once more as she rubs her chin in thought, "Hmm...Two.
Alright. We can assume that means two people. Silver might mean they are
from the Tower..or perhaps just work for the Light. Now..let's move to the
snow field. You said that the snow surrounded the swords. That..when a
shadow came too close it's as though it chased it off?"

Ian 'a head jerks up and he blinks, as if he has heard a sound. He stands
and begins to back slowly towards the door, watching the ceiling. His face
flickers with the half-frown of startled confusion...he lowers his gaze to
the room, shakes his head a little, and walks towards the door. He behaves
as if he is completely alone in the dining hall.

Neelkan is sitting over near Espi, and unfortunately is a little wrapped up
in whatever has him upset right now, that he barely notices the person
until after he sits down, and when the strange young man with white streaks
in his red hair notices him, his forehead knits up for a moment. It knits
even more as he watches him start to leave. What's up with him? He shrugs,
not looking at her as he responds. He mutters to Espiria, "... were...
snow.... seem... held back,... 'n... just... like it... holding... it..." 

Espiria senses "Neelkan is sitting over near Espi, and unfortunately is a
little wrapped up in whatever has him upset right now, that he barely
notices the person until after he sits down, and when the strange young man
with white streaks in his red hair notices him, his forehead knits up for a
moment. It knits even more as he watches him start to leave. What's up with
him? He shrugs, not looking at her as he responds. "'ey were covered in
snow. 'n it did seem like the shadow was... held back, 'r... at least it
didn't touch 'em. 'n it just... /felt/ like it was the snow holding it
back... I dunno how to explain it...""

Espiria hmms softly, nodding after a moment. "Alright. So..we might assume
that the snow could be the White Tower..or it could even be a person that
is protecting the two swords." She smiles, shaking her head a bit.
"No..It's fine. We will keep your feelings, since you are the one who
experiences this first hand. It's important to understand what the images
are as well as take into consideration the feelings you have when you see
them." She smiles, rubbing her chin again. "Alright...now..the next part.
What was it again?"

"A dead place. It just... felt... dead. Like... a battle ground? Or a place
where lots of people are buried maybe? But it was indoors, 'cause 'ere were
walls... Lots of walls." Neelkan shudders a little bit and shakes his head,
pressing a hand to his forehead for a moment. "'n a hand. I didn't see
anything but a hand. No one attatched t' it, I mean. But it wasn't floatin'
either.. it just..." He grumps for a second, then adds. "It just... the
hand was red. Dark red. 'n it was... movin' 'long the walls. Like I would
if I were lookin' f'r a hidin' place in it, 'r a loose stone." He shakes
his head again. "I don't e'en know if 'ey're connected, but it... felt like
'ey were..."

Espiria smiles and nods, shivering a bit as she bites her lower lip. Could
it be the same place that she was shown in her..dream? She wraps her arms
around her for a moment, idea striking her like a flash. "Neel....this is
important. Was there anything on the walls that you could see? Faces..or
maybe things that could have been taken as faces?" One step at a time
Espi..let's not wig out before there's a reason to, shall we? Get a grip
girl. She takes a breath, "Just see if you can remember anything about the
room..no matter what it is or how small you believe it to be."

"I..." Neelkan frowns for a moment, then shakes his head, "I don't
remember, Esp. Maybe. It was... it just felt wrong. I didn't like it. I
don't remember faces though, but... it felt like... somethin' was...
sleepin' 'ere. Waitin'... It just... I didn't like how it felt." Which is
probably why he woke up during the dream at that part a few times. He
finally looks over directly at you again, "Why?"

Espiria shivers a bit, shaking her head. "I'll tell you in a moment,
but...I have a real fear I know what the dream means." She seems to look
paler than she was when she sat down, but she doesn't give up just because
the fear seems very real to her. "Neel...let's talk about the bowl now,
alright? You...said that the bowl was made of some kind of blue rock? Or
stone of some kind? That..is seemed to be moving? Or parts of it at least,
right?"

Staring at you for a few long moments, Neelkan seems reluctent to continue.
He doesn't want to scare you anymore... he's already done so much to risk
the friendship he has. He /yelled/ at you... He finally lowers his eyes
after a moment and nods, cupping his hand into a bowl. "Ye'h. A bowl of...
rock. 'r crystal. 'r somethin' like 'at. 'n it had... white and gray parts
moving around, but... only on the inside part I think." He closes his eyes,
trying to picture it, then opens them again, "Like lookin' 'at the sky.
The... the stuff movin' looked kinda like clouds." He looks back over,
still not sure what any of this... it can't be involved with you after
all... Can it?

Espiria nods, watching your hands and listening to your words. She rubs her
chin, aurgument of moments before forgotten for now. There are other things
more important than harsh words and she knows it. She thinks quietly for a
moment before she bites her lower lip, "And..you said that right after
you...you saw the bowl you saw the two swords break?" She frowns for a
moment, "Were..they still with the snow?"

"I... I don't know. I don't think so. They just... broke." Neelkan shrugs
his shoulders. "I really don't know how to explain it, Esp. I saw the bowl.
Then it was like the... two swords came back. Like... while the... bowl was
still visable kinda. 'ey weren't in the field, 'ey were still crosed, 'n...
it was like 'ey had been made of glass 'n not silver in ya dropped 'em. It
kinda looked like 'at... Only without bein' dropped." He watches you
carefully, more worried then ever.

Espiria looks down, heaving a heavy sigh as she nods. But will it come
true? Is it about her? Or is she just paranoid. She places her hands on
either side of her head for a moment, biting her lip so it hurts. Yes..a
bit of pain now. But..will there be alot of pain later? She regains some of
her composure, shaking her head. "I..I don't know for sure, Neel. I really
don't." She glances back over to you, definate fear in her eyes.
"Neel...how did that bowl make you feel. Did you have any feelings toward
it at all? Like..it was something else? Or...did it make you feel badly
like that room?"

"It didn't make me feel bad... It actually was kind of weird when the
swords shattered, because the bowl was pretty peaceful seeming..." Neelkan
shrugs his shoulders, not knowing how better to explain, if he could
anyway. He continues to look at you, his eyes wanting to know what's going
on. "Ya don't know f'r sure..." he repeats after a moment, as if not
believeing, then looks away and sighs. "I wish... blood 'n ashes. I don't
want 'ese dreams anymore... At least I understand why Redd's always so
pissed off when he sees 'ose things 'round people... But at least he knows
who the things he's seein' 'r attatched t'..."

Espiria reaches out to touch your hand, shaking her head. "Neel..there's
nothing that can be done right now. You seeing these things is a way of
warning us that something if going to happen, but it's our job to find out
what. And maybe prevent it if possible. You really need to talk to Wyntere
Sedai about this one. And if it's all connected as you feel it is..then it
must be something very important indeed. Lives could be on the line..and I
think she..and Mother are better equiped to find out the truth behind what
you saw and find a way to fix it."

"I don't know if 'ey're connected f'r sure... It just... felt that way."
Neelkan says, shrugging his shoulders. He's never been very good with
reading things like this, but the feelings have always been the part he
hated most about the dreams. Images can be scary, true, but sometimes the
feelings with them... He's just very glad he wasn't alive during the fall
of Jaramide or Aramelle. Those probably would have inspired dreams that
would have done more then earn him his 'old man' nickname from his
sister... "I'll talk t' 'er 'bout it. I promise..." Though he's reluctent
about having to explain it again.

Espiria looks at your face and smiles, "Neel..I know it's got to be so hard
for you to retell this so many times, but each time you do you find another
small piece of the puzzle. Each time..you have a chance of remembering
another small detail that might be important to make it all fit. I..I
remember how hard it was to mantion my dreams..to her at first. They were
terrifying..and I just was so afraid of saying anything to anyone. I'm glad
I did though..or else the Dark could have actually succeeded in doing what
it tried to do to me back then. We can't let the Dark win, Neel. No matter
what..we can't stop fighting it or keeping it back from swallowing other
people of the Light. Promise me, Neel..that you will never stop fighting
it." She's very serious at the end there as though she feared something and
wanted to make sure where you stood.

Neelkan blinks and looks over at you for a long time. He pauses, then says
truthfully, still looking at your face, "Espi... 'fore I came 'ere.. I
ne'er fought it. I didn't care. Honestly. It... It scared m'. It haunted m'
dreams, but... I didn't care." He shakes his head, looking away now, a
little ashamed. "But... I'm with m' friends, Espi. 'n m' friends fight
'gainst the Dark. 'n..." He pauses for a moment, and realizes that's just
an excuse. He shakes his head again, then nods. "A'right. I promise. I'll
fight it. 'n continue t' fight it. No matter what happens." He adds in a
soft mumble afterwards, "F'r ya."

Espiria smiles, tears glistening in her eyes as she nods. "Thank you, Neel.
That...means more to me that you'll ever know." She heaves a sigh, looking
down at the table again and then closing her eyes. No..she won't let you
see her crying. You have enough to deal with and her fears may not be real.
She may just be paranoid after all. It might only be a coinsidence that it
was two swords, right? It might be only a coinsidence that you saw that
place with the dead feel. The place that 'he' took her just before dropping
her back into her room that time. The place where the dead's faces screamed
out in agony to her. She shivers and can't help the shiver as she remembers
that horrible place. But..what could the other mean. That they will come
for her and Varcel in the Tower? If it does, then how can she be safe
anywhere? And what of the peaceful bowl? What does that mean... She sighs,
glancing up to you again as she makes her best efforts to smile. "I...I
know it's scary, Neel. Light..I know. If I could take that from you, I
would in an instant, but you have it for a reason, Neel. You have so that
it can help others..and that's a great gift and a great burden to bear."

Looking over at you, Neelkan nods slowly, leaning over and putting an arm
around you for a moment, taking your offered smile as an instentive to
offer a half-hug in return. "I know... I'm sorry. I just... Light... It's
so bloody annoyin'. I wish 'ere were ways t' make it so some nights I don't
have 'em... So I can get a decent night's sleep." He shakes his head, then
lets you go and says, "I really should be gettin' back t' m' lessons. I
think I missed one, but 'ey usually aren't too bad, since I a'ready know
more 'bout swords 'en some of the Gaidin." Those that didn't focus on sword
training and all. "Whate'er the dream means... well, it means what it means
I guess. Maybe Wyn 'r Kaomi'll know more."

Espiria pats your arm as it rests around her shoulder and she smiles
gently, "Yes, Neel. You need to work and become a Gaidin..so that you can
make your mark on the world as you were always meant to." She sighs softly,
"I need to get some things done too, but I'll be looking forward to seeing
you again. And...I'm sorry about getting all worked up about your sister
too. I..I never wanted to make you upset with me, Neel. I..just don't see
how it's right for a good man like yourself to have to go thru such
pettiness. I only hope..that one day you will see that is true." She
squeeezes your hand gently, rising from the table. "I'll see you soon.
Please..make sure you talk to them as soon as you can. We never know how
soon what you see will happen..or to whom it will happen."

"Make m' mark on the world, eh? Well, who knows... maybe..." At the mention
of his sister his jaw tightens, and he shakes his head, "I... shouldn't've
been upset. Ya were just tryin' t' help, it was m' fault. But, m' sis
doesn't see m' as a good man. Light, she prolly won't e'en agree I'm a
'man' yet. Maybe if she sees m' as ya do..." Neelkan shrugs. He doubts she
will ever see anything good about him. She's always seen the faults. But...
perhaps. Either that or there's always hope he'll grow out of letting
himself be abused. "'n I really will talk t' 'em 'bout it. E'en if I'd
rather not. But I will. Light keep ya safe, Esp." He offers a half grin,
then starts to head out.

Espiria smiles and nods, "Light guard you always, Neel and keep you safe
from Harm." She sighs softly, heading for the door as well. Much to think
about..and much to worry on now. Could it be about them? There were 2
swords. She grits her teeth for whatever may be coming. She won't give up
and she knows Varcel won't. But..from the sound of things..and /if/ it's
about them..it's not going to be pleasant.