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Esthi's Raising

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Setting: Courtyard: White Tower, Tar Valon

Before you stands a magnificent palace made of delicately sculpted marble, rather than blocks. Gently arching walls and bulging domes rise high into the sky, seemingly just barely touching the clouds with its delicately crafted spires, topping off the breathtaking sight before you. Looking about, one can see a small garden off to the side, with a small winding path down it's center that leads into a maze of bushes where one might get lost if not too careful.
The grounds look much like a garden as the trees and shrubs are in full bloom, showing off their vibrant green color. Flowers all over seem to wake up and bring life to the surrounding area. There are several benches about the grounds where one might be able to sit and relax. The sky seems to brighten as the sun rises from the horizon beyond, bringing the start of a new day. All around you can see residents of the White Tower milling about as Novices and Accepted start to their early morning chores.
A broad stairway, made of pristine white marble, enters into the White Tower, marked by a massive pair of doors decorated with delicate carvings of intricate workmanship. A tall, white wall cascades around the yard, its entrances and exits marked by high gates leading to the street, watched by the Tower Guard. Somewhere in the courtyard you can see buildings for the barracks and the stables. You can also see an entrance to the practice yard, marked of by a row of high hedges.

Micana walks down the steps into the Courtyard, after pushing through the main doors of the Tower.

Raemira sits quietly on one of the benches, looking up at the sky. Her eyes appear to hold a curious note to them, not noticing others passing back and forth.

Micana steps into the courtyard, a rather distracted look on her face as she picks her way along the path, avoiding some of the chicken droppings. She looks around and notes the presence of Raemira and directs her path toward her, curtseying and waiting respectfully near.

Upon hearing footfalls coming her way, Raemira turns her attention from the sky to glance to the person directing their attention in her direction. A half smile appears on Raemira's lips when she sees Micana, though the rest of her features remain more or less serene and calm, "Good evening, Daughter." Raemira speaks, her voice a gentle tone.

Brenn walks in from the southeast entrance, watched closely by the Tower Guards.

Esthi walks down the steps into the Courtyard, after pushing through the main doors of the Tower.

Raemira sits on one of the various benches within the Courtyard, with her attention directed curiously in Micana's direction.

Micana looks at the stranger, leaving the guards to ask him his business whils she continues to talk to the woman she stands beside.

Esthi curtsies, then sets out a basket of chicks, letting each one out one at a time, cooing softly to them.

Micana says "I have a problem I would like to ask your advice regarding, Mother." She lowers her voice discretely."

Raemira raises a brow slightly, keeping her own voice low, She mutters to Micana, "... Daughter?"

Micana senses "Raemira raises a brow slightly, keeping her own voice low, "What sort of problem, Daughter?""

Brenn sits on a bench, admirring the grounds.

Esthi tries to herd the chicks into a small area, keeping an angry eye on a cat..

A low grumble appears to come from the cat closest to the chicks. One might say it's licking it's chops as it looks a the chicks, as if biding it's time to pounce one, or all.

Micana mutters to Raemira, "... sent... ago explaining... I had... Esthi's... can... she is... one away from... cat... it... She... to... it... Channeling... She is... doing a... the chicks and... have... and finished serving Irinya... meals. She... am running out of ideas on handling..."

Micana whispers " I sent you a note several days ago explaining what I had done regarding Esthi's punishment, and as you can see, she is doing this. However, she failed to keep one away from a cat and it became injured. She attempted to heal it without permission. Channeling without permission. She is already doing a report, the chicks and what you have planned, and finished serving Irinya formal meals. She has potential, but I am running out of ideas on handling her."

Esthi says "BAD Kitty!"

Esthi says "You already ate Celia. Go away before I hurt you!"

The cat appears to ignore Esthi, still looking rather hungry. It calmly wraps it's tail about it's body as it crouches down real low, to get a better perspective of it's chosen victim.

Esthi picks up a rock and throws it at the cat. "No!"

Esthi herds her little chicks closer together, bribing them with seed and soft coos..

Raemira lifts a brow just slightly, glancing from Esthi to Micana, then back again. She appears thoughtful, quite so, as she gently lays a hand in her lap, taking it from the bench to do so, She mutters to Micana, "I... that the punishment... gave... Think.... has... the... attacked... animal?" She pauses, not responding to the rest of the comments so far.

Micana senses "Raemira lifts a brow just slightly, glancing from Esthi to Micana, then back again. She appears thoughtful, quite so, as she gently lays a hand in her lap, taking it from the bench to do so, "I think that the punishment you gave her was quite innovative. Think.... has she learned anything from the experience, when the cat attacked the animal?" She pauses, not responding to the rest of the comments so far."

The cat hisses at Esthi, then stands on all fours, swishing it's tail back and forth in a rather prissy, angry matter, giving Esthi one of the most evil looks imaginable from such an animal. Rather than dealing with a testy human, she goes off in search of a mouse.

Esthi says "chick chick chick chick...."

Esthi quicklly chases down one escaping bird and then another..

Micana nods. Mutter Raemira= I hope so. If she listened to me and to my counciling, she did.

Esthi stops to wipe her brow....And a chick dashes under an Aes Sedai skirts.. A quick count shows one missing.. but where? "Did you see where Saia went?

Micana mutters to Raemira.

You sense Micana raises one hand expressively, "She saw how half-grown chicks think they know best put themselves in danger, knowing and unknowing. She saw how, when one is aware and tries to guard, even that precaution will not work if the chick disobeys and goes where not supposed to be.

Esthi loks about, Paniced. "Saia! Saia! chick chickchick chick...

Esthi scurries about.. "Saia!"

Raemira inclines her head slightly, turning her attention to Esthi, watching the girl thoughtfully as she scurries about in search of her missing chick. She lifts her hand from her lap and taps at her cin in a pensive manner, as if thinking over the girls fate. After a few moments she turns her attention back to Micana again, She mutters to Micana, "... you... spoken... her in regards... Power when... not..."

Micana senses "Raemira inclines her head slightly, turning her attention to Esthi, watching the girl thoughtfully as she scurries about in search of her missing chick. She lifts her hand from her lap and taps at her cin in a pensive manner, as if thinking over the girls fate. After a few moments she turns her attention back to Micana again, "I see. And have you already spoken to her in regards to using the Power when she is not supposed to?""

Micana nods. "I have. And told her not to embrace the source at all until decided what to do. No classes or practices."

Micana mutters to Raemira, "I... not... her plain classes... her chores nor... work... but I... the... serious... novices."

Micana whispers " I did not restrict her plain classes nor her chores nor her work on her project, but I did indicate the infringment was serious since one of the fundimental rules for novices."

Saia dashes out from under Micana's skirts. "Saia.. You scared me.. Don't do that again little miss.."

Raemira inclines her head silently, once again turning her attention to the Novice, her eyes watching over the girl quietly, appearing calm and unnerving at the same time, She mutters to Micana, "... of... than that, though... watch out. The girl has... to... I'm... she'll... let... do... for them..." A slight pause as Raemira looks up at the sky once more, "Or..." She begins, watching Micana quietly, though pausing her words.

Micana senses "Raemira inclines her head silently, once again turning her attention to the Novice, her eyes watching over the girl quietly, appearing calm and unnerving at the same time, "Of course. I would think of nothing less than that, though do watch out. The girl has a tendancy to do other's chores for them as well. If given time, I'm sure she'll have convinced the others to let her do their chores for them..." A slight pause as Raemira looks up at the sky once more, "Or..." She begins, watching Micana quietly, though pausing her words."

Brenn stands up, and stutters nervously, "uh... um, If it pleases you, may I have a word?"

Raemira slowly turns her attention to Brenn, looking him over with a mask of calm sereness. After a few moments a brow raises slightly as she regards the man, then she speaks, "I am not so sure that it will please me, Master, but you may speak if that is your will."

Brenn swallows, "I'm s..s...sorry to disturb you, Lady, but, I wondered if you could ah.. help me find something.

That single brow of Raemira's appears to quirk just a bit higher, out of curiousity it seems, "And what, exactly, is it that you are looking for?" She speaks, keeping her attention on the man before her.

Micana listens to Raemira, turning to the side as the man approaches adn falling silent. She uses the toe of one shoe to herd a chick back toward Esthi.

Brenn stutters, "Ahh well... as perhaps you could tell by my guise, er... well," He swallows nervously, then blurts out "I'm looking for The Song, and I wonder if you could tell me where I should look. er... your grace?" The other brow of Raemira's appears to go up in question, "Song, Master? What song?"

Esthi continues running about after teh chicks, having run out of clever ways to pose this..

Brenn looks indignant, "Why, THE Song, of course, all of the Tuatha'an seek the Song, when we find it, it is said we we be given back our home! uh... Your ladyship."

Brenn shakes head, "I have lost the way of the leaf, and it is my hope to someday find it again, I hope to do that by bringing the song back to the Tuatha'an. um..."

Micana mutters to Esthi, "... sprinkle of... while... you a breather." Brenn says "My father's dying words were that he had found it, but to late he perished, unable to pass it on." A tear glistens on Brenn's face. He wipes it away, shaking his head, "No matter, the present is important, the past is dust...""

Raemira allow her brows to lower as some light has come to her. "I see. Master. I do not think that any Song will restore you to your Way. I have known and met several of the Tuatha'an. The Way is simply doing no harm to those about them. Never taking up weapons, especially edged ones or killing for one's food, or even harming in defense. It is a hard life, surely, though I respect and admire those that I do know;

Esthi smiles and nods to Micana, pulling a small bag of seed from a pocket

Brenn says "Perhaps I've lost the Way, but I still wish to find the song. My father's people deserve their home!""

Raemira hrms thoughtfully, "As I once understood their home was the paths they traveled and they seems more than content to do so. I cannot help you find the 'Song' master, as it is not my quest to do so."

Brenn looks down, "I'm sorry to have wasted your time, m'lady. Many thanks..." Brenn turns away

Raemira shakes her head slightly, "Nay, you have not wasted my time. Though it is more advisable to have more of a direction when walking within the Tower walls. Not many would appreciate strangers just sitting about."

Brenn mumbles an apology, and leaves.

Brenn passes through the SouthHarbor Gate under the watchful eyes of the Tower Guards.

Esthi spreads some seed about. "Chickchickchick..

Raemira watches Brenn exiting the Tower grounds, then lets out a small, unaudible sigh before she turns her features toward Micana once more, She mutters to Micana, "... we could... and see if... the Testing.... above... tell us... she... what... takes... become one... us."

Micana senses "Raemira watches Brenn exiting the Tower grounds, then lets out a small, unaudible sigh before she turns her features toward Micana once more, "Or we could just raise her, and see if she survives the Testing. That, above anything else should tell us if she has what it takes to become one of us.""

Micana nods. "Agreed."

Raemira nods once to the words spoken, looking silently up at the sky again before looking back to Micana, She mutters to Micana, "Has... all of her... I... that... her, which... not... from doing... she... from those punishments that are in store."

Micana senses "Raemira nods once to the words spoken, looking silently up at the sky again before looking back to Micana, "Has she completed all of her lessons? I know she is not yet finished her project that you have given her, which is fine, for now. She will not be expempt from doing it, nor will she be expempt from those punishments that are in store.""

Esthi says "Chick chick chick.. Have some nice seed.."

Micana mutters to Raemira.

You sense Micana looks toward the chicks and novice and back at Raemira. "Mother, I do not remember regarding her lesson completion. I know she has come far along, but would have to look at the actual roster to know.

Raemira inclines her head slightly, rising from her bench. She smoothes over her skirts with one hand as she does so, She mutters to Micana, "... go... if she... completed... that others... them... have authorized... give... recommendations needed."

Micana senses "Raemira inclines her head slightly, rising from her bench. She smoothes over her skirts with one hand as she does so, "Well then, perhaps we can go see if she has completed her lessons. If you are worried that others will object to her being raised, please make them aware that I have authorized it. Too many Accepted these days are too busy to give the recommendations needed.""

Micana nods and rises to accompany Raemira to the tower.

Raemira starts to walk toward the Tower, keeping strangely quiet. As she does so, she casts one last glance at Esthi, then enters inside.

Both Raemira and Micana head for the Practice room to look over the rosters.

You enter the Practice Room, where there are many practicing channelers. Might want to make sure you stay out of the way of those inside.

Practice Room: White Tower, Tar Valon

This room is devoid of any sort of decorations, keeping it practical for it's purposes. There are several desks and chairs about the room, lined in an orderly fashion for Novices and Accepted to use during their training in the One Power. There are also several stools about the room, where Novices and Accepted can break off and speak to each other one to one on certain channeling techniques. In one of the corners you might notice an area with some throw pillows, where one might sit to relax for a moment, or where one might lay out a student who passed out from over extending their abilities. A large fireplace sits against the far wall, used to hear the room during the colder seasons.

The windows within the room appear to be open, allowing any chance breeze to flow through during the hot summer season. This room appears to be rather full as Novices get lessons from various Accepted and Aes Sedai present. Each small group appears to be working on different components of the One Power.

There is one exit within this room that leads back out into the main hallway of the learning center.

Micana says "all the lessons complete it looks like but not the practices"

Raemira nods gently, "I believe with those things in flux, we had decided to let the novices go without the practices. All appears to be in order."

Micana nods and looks down seriously as she closes the book. She looks toward Raemira steadily, knowing the magnitude of this step.

Raemira looks about thoughtfully for a moment, then turns to Micana, "Bring the Child to the Chamber. Instruct her not to speak unless spoken to."

Raemira's voice holds a note of finality, "I will be waiting in the Chambers for you both and rouse the appropriate number of Sisters to work the arches..." She moves toward the door, glancing back at Micana once, "I am hoping that this will do the trick, but we will know if it does not."

Micana nods. "Yes. We shall know."

With all being said, Raemira moves out the door.

You leave the practice rooms, feeling the eyes of the Sedai guarding the door following you as you leave.

Raemira continues until she gets to the testing chamber.

You enter through a hidden passage, entering a strange chamber.

Testing Chamber: White Tower, Tar Valon

The room appears to be rather closed off from the rest of the world, yet no dust appears to settle on the cold stone walls and floors, as if it's being kept clean each day, no matter the consequence. There is a serviceable table that sits not five paces away from the door. Within the middle of the room lie three strange arching shapes, which look like doorways, in a sense, perhaps making this room that which Novices are raised as Accepted. Several untensils for the ritual appear to lay on the table, waiting to be used.

Raemira slowly, but surely enters the chambers moving close to the podium. She inclines her head to Irinya, her features shadowed enough so that her own expressions remain hidden and unreadable. " Good Evening, Daughter..." Raemira speaks, her voice low and barely heard.

Irinya is waiting near the entrance. Seeing Raemira, she drops a slow,yet perfect curtsy and answers quietly in her deep and smooth voice. "Good evening Mother. You summoned me. " Her expression is calm, yet there's a small hint of anticipation within her coppery features, perhaps a sign of curiousity?

Raemira inclines her head slightly, "Aye, I did. We are raising one of the Novices this evening."

Irinya raises a thin, delicate eyebrow slightly in faint surprise and asks softly. "Yes.. It was some time since last.. Who is it, Mother?"

"Novice Esthi." There is no emotion within Raemira's voice as she speaks, "With all of the efforts that have been put into disciplining her, Micana and I have agreed that perhaps now that she has completed her studies, perhaps the Testing will mend her of her ways."

Irinya is seldom known to be able to look surprised. But for once she does. A widening of her eyes for an instant speaks of that. But she soon regains her smooth Aes Sedai serenity, her voice almost thoughtful, in that almost purring Domani accent. "Yes... perhaps that would be the best.. Her discipline has been far from.. how should I put it.. flawless?"

Raemira inclines her head slightly, "Aye, that it has. We all know, those of us that have been raised, what goes on within those Arches. Perhaps she will see what effort there is to be what we are, should she pass them even."

Irinya inclines her head slowly to that.. "Yes.. More responsibility and higher demands on her. Perhaps that is what's needed. "

Micana enters the Testing Chamber from the hallway of the basement.

Esthi enters the Testing Chamber from the hallway of the basement.

Micana steps silently into the testing chamber and over toward the table to the side. She turns to face the novice and gives her a cool assessing glance.

Esthi quickly counts the channelers present, calming slightly at less than 13..

Irinya is speaking quietly to Raemira, as the two new people arrive. She smiles faintly and politely to Micana, inclining her head. "Sister." Not saying any more, her dark, disconcerting eyes move to study Esthi. Now however they seem to take that motherly calm she often seems to achieve around women.

Raemira inclines her head slowly to something Irinya speaks, standing near the podium within the room. She appears to be waiting patiently, with everything laid out carefully already. As soon as she hears the door opening, she turns her attention to Micana and Esthi, a brow raising slightly, though something of a rather sympathetic look coming into her eyes for the young girl who may be about to go through her most trying moments.

Esthi remembers herself and curtsies, but brooks no greeting.

Micana faces the novice. She studies her a moment then speaks, her voice slow and measured, "You are to be tested for Raising to Accepted. Before you undergo the test, you must search yourself and decide whether or not you are truly ready." Her expression is quite serious, "You may refuse now, and twice again, without shame. The third refusal, and you will be put out of the Tower for good. Do you understand?"

Esthi nods slowly.

Raemira appears to stand up straighter, looking more intently at Esthi and Micana. She appears to study Esthi more intently, as if trying to read a book.

Esthi looks for permission to speak.

Irinya is watching Esthi too, calm and motherly.

Micana says "You may now speak, Esthi.""

Esthi says "I.. I am ready."

Esthi steels herself. "Tamarind Sedai has faith in me, I am ready.."

Bravado is.. an interesting thing, no?

Irinya arches an eyebrow slightly at the mentioning of Tamarind, making mental notes to herself.

Micana nods just once, "Then remove your clothing, Novice, that you may enter the testing unfettered."

Esthi carefully removes her dress, folding it neatly, and with respect.

Raemira inclines her head as she watches Esthi decloth herself, then turns her attention to Micana. There are two other Aes Sedai, each with the glow surrounding them, each sitting before the arches. Raemira begins to speak in a monotone voice, her words directed at no one in particular, "Whom do you bring with you Sister?"

Micana answers, in a toneless voice, "One who comes as a candidate for Acceptance."

Raemira nods slowly, asking in her monotone voice, "Is she ready?"

Esthi pauses, unsure iff she is spoken to or Micana..

Irinya is sitting before the second arch, her skirts folded around her, legs folded in indian manner, her calm gaze studying Esthi for most of the time. Now calmly and motherly, most of the disconcerting manner away.

Micana looks toward the novice to speak. "Now I will tell you two things that no woman hears before she stands in this chamber." "Once you begin you must continue through to the end. Refuse at any point and you will be put out of the Tower just as if you had refused to begin for the third time."

Raemira appears to pause the ceremony, frowning slightly at herself for having jumped the gun.

Micana waits for the novice to think about her words, then continues. " The second is that to seek, to strive, is to know danger. You must know that some women have entered and never come out." The word 'never' is unmistakably emphasized by a tone in Micannas voice.. "When the ter'angreal finally was allowed to grow quiet, they -were not- there. And they were never seen again." "If you will survive, you must remember to be steadfast. Falter, fail, and..." She trails off in a meaningful way to await a response from the novice.

Esthi's lips tighten, a grim expression masking her.. "I understand, Aes Sedai. I.. am ready.

Micana says "Then ready yourself for there will be no turning back. She turns her attention to Raemira to continue the ritual. " replies, "She is ready to leave behind what she was, and passing through her fears, gain Acceptance.""

Raemira inclines her head slightly to Micana, "Does she know her fears?" Micana intones in a steady clear tone. "She has never faced them, but is now willing."

"Then let her face her fears." Raemira's voice holds a note of formality, and even finality, however that does not match the expression within her eyes, which remain rather sympathetic.

The arch behind Irinya seems to be humming quietly and glow softly.. a strange contradiction against the smoothly cold stone floor.

Micana leads Esthi toward the first arch. "The first time is for what was. The way back will come but once. Be steadfast." She squeezes her arm gently once and then steps back.

Raemira watches Esthi closely, to see if she will enter the arches or not.

Irinya looks up at Esthi as she approaches the arch, watching calmly.

Esthi enters the first arch slowly, deliberately

Esthi gulps, and breeches the gateway.

The scene facing Esthi is on a ship, a Seafolk raker.. with those in her family she knew and loves before being sent away.. Her mother is standing at the railing of the ship, looking at Esthi, smiling sadly. "It is our decision, my daughter. We love you no less for it. "

Esthi blanches. A horrid memory..

Esthi says "It is.. as you wish mother.. Get it over with..."

Micana waits silently beside the empty arches, the glow steady as the three Aes Sedai channel into the testing arches.

The woman standing before Esthi nods slightly, her eyes still sad, "I know child and I know you will do us proud, as all of our kind have, to keep our secrets safe. You should be happy, this is an honor, as would be sailing along my side." She gently reaches out and touches her daughter's chin, in a motherly fashion, afterwords she nods to the Windfinder who starts toward Esthi, the glow surrounding her as she does so, starting to work the weaves of fire to burn the tattoo from her.

Esthi screeches in agony, pulling her hand to her chest, wincing, face distorted..

The mother suddenly stops, emotions going through her. She steps in front of the windfinder, protectively in front of Esthi.. ".. No. Not my daughter. She is staying with me. "

Esthi looks up.. She didn't burn me again.. Something is wrong. "Mother?"

The windfinder glances from the Mother to Esthi, "It has been decided. She drew the shortest straw." The mother shakes her head, giving Esthi a soothing look, "I have changed my mind. We will hold the lottery again." Her eyes appear to flash slightly, as if her word is law.

Esthi says "No."

The mother glances at Esthi, "I want you by my side child, as we have planned together, is that not what you want?"

Esthi says "I.. was chosen.. I.. go.."

Esthi looks at her hand, fingering teh scar. "Wishing different doesn't make it so.."

The mother kneels down next to her daughter, "Aye, but it does..." She continues to soothingly caress Esthi's features, "I am the sailmistress of this ship and I can hold you exempt from the lottery if I so choose, and I have chosen." She rises, a decisive look on her features, "Gather the girls again." Her voice is authoritative.

As if hovering in the back of the girl's mind are a flicker of words, an echo, not a memory of hers..."The way back will come but once. Be steadfast." The words fade as she fingers her scar and speaks with her mother, yet their presence may be felt.

Esthi says "NO. I.. I renounce my name, and all claims.."

Esthi gulps. "Burn me, Plisea...

The mother shakes her head slightly, "Dont be silly child. The decision is made" Her eyes appear to watch Esthi in that saddened light as she turs ns to watch the gathering girls again...

Be steadfast, the way comes but once... The echoing memory shimmers again as a silver doorway begins to appear just to the right of Esthi.

Esthi waits for the pain.. She opens her eyes to see the doorway.. And steps through.

Micana watches as Esthi reappears from the archway, her expression a placid mask as most in the chamber look like. Her eyes have a hint of sympathy yet she does not falter in what must be done.

As Esthi steps through the archway, she is drenched with a chalice of water, "You are washed clean of what sin you may have done, and of those done against you" Raemira speaks, with her voice still hovering in that monotone nature, "You are washed clean of what crime you may have comitted, and of those comitted against you. You come to use washed clean and pure, in heart and soul." As Raemira dumps the water on the Novice her eyes turn even more sympathetic and even empathic in nature, having been through similar experiences through the arches, or not so similar.

The second arch begins to hum and come to life as the midded Sedai begins to channel power into it.

Esthi wraps her arms about herself.. shivering...

Micana steps forward to guide the girl to the second arch. She places her hands on the novice's shoulders, completely lacking in any sort of compassion, and steers her firmly toward the second arch. "The second time is for what is. The way back will come but once. Be steadfast."

Esthi slowly steps into the next arch, dripping wet.

As Esthi moves through the second archway, things change and alter themselves around her. She appears to be in the practice room, with Raemira. "Good child, now then, tell me, what have you learned concerning the other Ajahs?"

Esthi says "Their purposes, and how they serve teh Tower, Mother.."

Raemira inclines her head slightly to Esthi, "Aye and what else? I have had word from Micana Sedai that you were working on a project. Have you yet had a chance to discuss things with the Sisters of the Ajahs?"

Esthi says "Most, but not all, I fear, Mother. Many of the Aes Sedai are very busy and have difficulty having time when I am not at chores or lessons."

A slight raising of the brow tells you that Raemira is not exactly surprised, "I see. I do agree we can be very busy, but if you ask, most Sedai will help. It is something that was assigned afterall. Please, tell me what little you have been able to glean."

Esthi says "The Yellow Ajah seems to sit.. alomost outside the goals of the other Ajahs, healing without concern of the wounds origins.. The whites strive for truth in it's myriad forms - fact and philosophy. The Blue sisters strive for those goals that are worthy, that often only the Aes Sedai can accomplish.."

As Esthi begins to speak something rather strange and even perhaps frightening happens. Raemira clutches at her chest, as if something were rather wrong, and her breathing turns very funny. Her breaths come in short gasps, as if she's unable to breath and she appears to be in a great deal of pain.

Esthi says "The Greys hold the world calm with each other.. Mother? Your condition is not cured?"

As if hovering in the back of the girl's mind are a flicker of words, an echo, not a memory of hers..."The way back will come but once. Be steadfast." The words fade as she discusses the Ajah's yet their presence may be felt.

E sthi rushes to teh door. "Fetch Help! Mother is ill!

The Amyrlin continues to clutch at her chest, falling over on her side as she does so, slumping. She appears unable to answer the girl's pleas and no one appears to be within yelling distance, which is rather odd for hte Tower.

Esthi steps forward, approaching the Amyrlin. "Mother.. May I channel? Let me help you!

Raemira does not appear to be able to answer the Novice, her eyes rolling up into her head and closing as she effectively passes out. Drool starts to come down the side of her cheek.

At this moment, a silver doorway appears, and a tickling at the back of your mind, "Be steadfast, the way comes but once."

Esthi says "Mother.. I.." She spies the door. "I am sorry, Mother.. But I cannot.. help you.."

Esthi steps to the door..

Esthi falls into teh door, crying..

Again as soon as Esthi steps through the door, cold water is poured over her head, in a chalice held by Raemira, "You are washed clean of false pride. You are washed clean of false ambition" Raemira speaks, no emotion or sympathy reaching her voice this time, "You come to us, washed clean in heart and soul."

Esthi sputters at teh water, tears mixing freely with it..

Micana eyes rest on the novice, her expression completely devoid of emotion after a flicker of sympathy is quelled. She .moves to stand in front of the third arch, waiting without any show of impatience.

The third Aes Sedai within the third arch begins to channel, allowing the power to surge into it. Soon afterwards, you can hear the humming.

Esthi looks up at the third arch. Fear in her eyes.. She slowly steps.

Micana takes hold of the novice's arm when the girl nears her, and directs her to the third arch. "The third time is for what will be. The way out will come but once. Be steadfast."

Esthi enters the arch, fearful, but with resolve..

The scenery changes. You are in an encampment, of some sort, and appear to be within a desert. All around fires burn, lighting the night sky. You can sense he is nearby, as always, watching over you, yet you cannot see him within the night. Your Gaidin, the one you thought you'd never have a chance to get. "All is well, my Sedai." He speaks, his voice a low rumble in the night, reassuring, "The Aiel have not attacked any place within three days. The Cairhienens are beginning to think that everything is finished, for now."

Esthi blinks.. looking around.. Sand? But no water.. No water?

Esthi says "Thank you.. my.. Gai. gaidin?"

Esthi says "The Aiel are.. attacking again?"

The man inclines his head, gentle, yet strong. Definitely something you had not expected from the spindly boy who grew into a man, one of your own kind. Another surprise that, when you found him within Tar Valon and he accepted your offer, "They were, but they've stopped. Your other Sisters are just a few paces away, resting. Two of them were injured badly with the fighting, and a third appears to have been captured. It seems that the Aiel are forgoing their honor to fight this war, something even I never expected."

Esthi says "Captured? Whom?"

As if hovering in the back of the girl's mind are a flicker of words, an tickle, not a memory of hers..."The way back will come but once. Be steadfast." The words fade as Esthi consults with her gaidin.

The Gaidin shrugs slightly, "The Aiel of course. Are you feeling well Esthi?" Concern etches over his features for the briefest of moments nad strange feelings flicker through the bond. Love, caring, worry, all ever present, pressing at the back of your mind, "Perhaps you should rest, today has been tiring..." He reaches out to touch yoru shoulder and push you back, though at that very moment, an alarm is sounded. He looks up sharply, his emotions pushed sharply away as he seeks the void, "Aiel again..." He comments, grabbing for his sword.

Esthi says "We.. We will share our water."

Esthi says "I must know of our missing sister."

At the moment that Esthi speaks a spear appears out of nowhere and lands next to the camp fire. Several are thrown forth as well, though your Gaidin, rather than answering your comment, rushes forward, "Run..." He calls out, urgency in his voice. As he yells such, you see one of the spears being aimed at his groin, as several black hooded figure appear within the firelight, all looking dangerously menacing.

Esthi says ""Hold! I would.. wish to speak to your leaders.."

Esthi says "I am Esthi Sedai of the White Tower. I ask with all respect.."

The Gaidin brings his sword down to bear upon the spear that is aimed for his groin. The others clad in the shouffa's do not appear to be holding as they advance toward the encampment. Another lounges out toward the Gaidin, aiming for his exposed back. You can feel the damage done as the spear point goes through his shoudlerblade.

Esthi embraces the source, weaving together all the moisture she can muster.. a rainstorm..

To the side is a flash of silver, glinting against the sky. A silver arch spans a narrow opening. The whispery tickle winds through the recesses of Esthi's mind. "The way back will come but once. Be steadfast."

Esthi spies teh doorway.. But.. she.. must.. leave. Light. Forgive me..

Esthi bolts for the door, leaving the rain .. her sisters, and her gaidin behind..

The Gaidin, though injured, continues to fight with all his might and skill, "Blood and bloddy ashes, Esthi, Run! I cant protect you and me both.." He tries to concentrate on the last bit, though as Esthi runs through the doorway, he is slashed several times more......

As Esthi enters the room once more, the power fades from the Third Arch. The Amyrlin is there, waiting, as before, as well as one person from each Ajah, all wearing worried,yet expectant expressions on their features. When they see Esthi coming out of the arch, several of them look rather relieved, though the others still seem worried and tense. Raemira walks forward slowing, with the last chalice within her hands.

Raemira slowly empties the chalice over Esthi's head, speaking in that monotone voice of hers, used for the ceremony, "You are washed clean of Esthi, of the Atha'an Miere. You are washed clean of all the ties that bind you to the world. You come to us washed clean, in heart and soul." Raemira pauses as she lowers her eyes to meet with Esthi's a sympathetic appearance to them with a stark seriousness found deep within, "You are Esthi, Accepted of the White Tower. You are sealed to us, now."

Raemira hands the chalice to Micana, then takes a gold ring from one of her pockets. She speaks to Esthi, "Hold out your hand, child."

Esthi barely manages to reach forth, shaking with fear, anger, sadness, and of course, cold..

Micana stands to the side, her expression calm, a hint of relief in her eyes. In her hands rests a folded white dress with seven bands of color on the hem. A towel rests atop. She takes the chalice and sets it aside.

Raemira watches the girl with emotionless eyes, once more. She places the ring on the third finger of Esthi's left hand, then kisses each cheek, speaking in a more pleasant voice, though the seriousness remains, "Welcome, Daughter."

Esthi says "Thank.. Thank you.. mother.."

Raemira inclines her head, regarding Esthi wtih a critical eye before speaking, "You will find that you may not be thanking me shortly. Accepted have a much more difficult time than Novices. You will be worked harder than you ever have over the next few weeks. This is the time where we find those that will not be able to make it as Aes Sedai." She turns her attention to Micana, speaking in a more quiet voice as the other Aes Sedai move out, "See that she gets her new set of clothing."

Micana nods and extends the towel and dress to Esthi. She kisses her on each cheek. "Welcome Accepted."

Esthi says "Thank you, Micana Sedai."

Esthi says "Do.. I.. still need to watch teh chicks?"

Raemira glances to Micana, to answer that one.

Esthi slowly dries herself with teh towel.. Then Reaches for the Accepted Dress.. She's frreezzzin!

Micana says "Rest now Accepted. Your restriction on lessons and channeling are released, you may channel within the restrictions placed on Accepteds. You will need to complete the report you began and the 'herding' for the remaining day."

Seth enters the Testing Chamber from the hallway of the basement.

Micana says "and any penances which have not been completed already... including the one I mentioned mothe may impose."

Esthi nods. "Yes.. Aes Sedai..

Esthi slaps a gendercheck lock on the door.. :)

Seth all but bursts in, half bowing when he does so. He begisn to gasp,"There is trouble with Kale, and Olista."

Raemira blinks slightly as the door to the testing chamber bursts open. A frown begins to appear on Raemira's features which suddenly turns into concern, "Trouble? What sort of trouble?"

To Coerel- Immediate concern flashes through the bond.

Esthi looks over, and up.. "Olista Sedai?"

Seth catches his breathe, and begins,"I was in the library with Kale and all of the sudden he hit the ground, got up, and took off running. I followed him to see if he was feeling well. He went to Olista Sedai's room ... I think she is the one who is not feeling well." Seth does what he can to make sense of the matter, hoping they will make out his gibberish.

Micana turns to the doorway, stepping before the new accepted to give her shelter to adjust the clothing over her body.

Esthi is dressed now. New Desc

Coerel enters the Testing Chamber from the hallway of the basement.

Coerel steps quickly into the room, his dark gaze casting about taking in the scene.

The concern begins to engrave itself deeper on Raemira's features. Not even seeing Coerel starting to enter the room she starts for the door, muttering several curses you may not have heard before under herbreath as she takes off. Only by nearly running into him does she notice Coerel, "Esthi, go see if you can find some Yellow Sisters" She calls out, then speaks to Coerel, "Follow me."

Esthi says "Yes, Mother."



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