Setting: Practice Room: White Tower, Tar Valon

Players:
Micana - Mistress of Novices
Kyra - Novice
Raemira - Amyrlin Seat
Atalanta - Aes Sedai of the Blue Ajah
Quim - Scholar
Esthi - Accepted
Amara - Aes Sedai of the Blue Ajah

Micana murmurs softly to Raemira. "I see that Kyra seems to have finished. I have gotten no recommendations on her from others, but I do think I could recommend her myself, prehaps with better conscience than Esthi.

Raemira lifts a brow faintly at Micana, glancing toward Kyra for a moment or two. She inclines her head a bit, as if considering, then lowers her voice, She mutters to Micana.

Micana senses "Raemira lifts a brow faintly at Micana, glancing toward Kyra for a moment or two. She inclines her head a bit, as if considering, then lowers her voice, "So you think she is ready then?""

Kyra glances towards the door, automatically dropping a curtsy at the Amyrlin's presence. Somehow she manages to keep her attention on the task the Accepted she is working with has given her.

Raemira nods faintly, turning her eyes back to Kyra, watching her quietly for a moment.

Raemira turns her eyes back to Micana, "You know what to do. I will arrange for others to meet us."

Micana nods. "As you wish, Mother." She pauses then adds in a low murmur.

Raemira inclines her head to Micana, "I will be there shortly. I wish to see if there are others available." She glances toward Kyra once more, then turns for the door.

The Amyrlin walks off to go round up interested Sedai.

[Setting change to: Library: White Tower, Tar Valon

Occupants: Atalanta, Quim, Esthi Raemira]

Raemira smoothes over the folds of her dress as she enters the room, her eyes searching it seems for someone or something. She pauses a moment, and her eyes seem to settle on Atalanta, though go to Quim in a curious light. After a few moments, she walks over toward her fellow sister, then pauses a nearby.

Atalanta sits on one of the chairs in front of some books. She looks up and nods, murmuring a respectful "Mother", then rises to see what she needs.

Esthi curtsies. "Mother.

Raemira lowers her voice, speaking in soft undertones, her eyes moving to Atalanta fully for a moment before looking out over the library again. She mutters to Atalanta, "... you... involved..." A faint glance goes toward Esthi and she inclines her head, in a reserved manner.

Atalanta senses "Raemira lowers her voice, speaking in soft undertones, her eyes moving to Atalanta fully for a moment before looking out over the library again. "We are bringing another closer to our ranks, Daughter. Do you wish to be involved within the ceremony?" A faint glance goes toward Esthi and she inclines her head, in a reserved manner."

Quim quickly puts down his pipe, which was cold but still it gives the wrong image, and puts his feet on the floor, with a soft thump and attempts to straighten his clothes.

Atalanta smiles and nods as Raemira speaks.

Raemira inclines her head gently, then speaks once more, She mutters to Atalanta, "Then... us... testing chamber,... power..."

Atalanta senses "Raemira inclines her head gently, then speaks once more, "Then meet us in the testing chamber, Daughter. We have need of you to help power the rings.""

Atalanta turns to Esthi and Quim. "Business calls me away. Until later." she smiles and heads out.

Atalanta passes through the massive wooden door leading into the Learning Center.

Quim nods and waves to the Aes Sedai as she exits.

Raemira straigthens a bit, then she too heads toward the door, walking in a dignified, yet purposeful manner.

[Moving on to the Aes Sedai Living Quarters: White Tower, Tar Valon]

Amara steps out of one of the quarters of one of the Blue Ajah. For those who know, the quarters belong to Amara Sedai

Amara opens the door, looking out.

Amara 's eyebrows arch slightly and she curtseys, "Mother."

Amara says "Please, come in."

Raemira inclines her head to Amara, her voice soft, yet commanding at hte same time, "We are going to test a Novice, to see if she is read for donning the ring. Do you wish to be part of that Ceremony, Daughter?"

Amara steps out. "Of course Mother."

Raemira inclines her head, "Then please, follow me." She offers a glimmer of a smile, though already there is a slight sadness with in her eyes, as if remembering her own time within the arches.

Amara nods and follows.

[Amara and Raemira move through the Tower to the Testing Chamber.

Testing Chamber: White Tower, Tar Valon

Occupants: Atalanta, Raemira]

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

Raemira inclines her head to Atalanta as she enters the room, Amara following behind her. "Micana is bringing the Novice to us. She will be instructing her on things she must do to prepare herself. I have need of you to power the arches when she goes through."

Raemira appears to be addressing you all. Atalanta, and Amara, as well as the other sister standing nearby. Amara nods, her expression solemn as she glances at the arches then away. The Yellow sister attending nods, then takes her place near the third arch, closing her eyes after she takes a seat upon one of the pillows presented there.

Atalanta nods and says, "Mother...what flows?"

Atalanta sits down at Pillows.

Raemira tilts her head at Atalanta, "Just saidar, no particular flows, Atalanta. It just needs to be channeled into, to work. You must not falter, otherwise we may trap her inside." Her words appear grave, and her eyes appear to grow more solemn as she speaks, not wanting Kyra to hear that particular bit before she enters.

Atalanta pushes up her glasses and nods solemnly.

Amara's expression sets in determination as she moves over to take her place.

Raemira walks toward a basin and gets out three chalices from underneath. She then proceeds to fill each with water, getting ready to prepare for the ceremony. At her waist, is tied a small white bag, which may contain the ring Kyra may receive should she pass her tests.

Atalanta watches, this scene taking her back to her own Accepted's test long ago.

Amara gives the closest arch a slight frown, then looks away again.

Raemira takes her filled chalices and places them upon her podium, turning her eyes toward those present, then glancing toward the door expectantly.

Atalanta pushes up her glasses and adjusts her shawl.

Amara glances at Atalanta, and reaches casually into one of her belt pouches, pulling out her own shawl. She shakes it out once, and slips it over her shoulders.

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

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

Raemira tilts her head faintly as she glances over toward the arches, her own shawl not present at all. Her head turns as she hears more footfalls, her eyes going to those enterin the room, her face suddenly more calm than before, and her eyes somehow more compassionate and sympathetic than before, as if knowing what this girl is about to face.

Atalanta folds her hands in her lap and waits, Aes Sedai calm, slipping, as it does for her so rarely, over her face, eyes unreadable behind the thick glasses.

Amara gives Kyra a sympathetic glance, then sets her expression into a smooth, watchful gaze.

Micana nods slightly to the others present and moves across the cold stone floor to a point midway the strange arches and Raemira. She turns to face the novice and speaks in a low clear tone. , "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?"

You stand behind the Podium.

Amara sits down cross legged where an arch joins another, taking her place.

Kyra strides in, then takes a deep breath even as she manages the smoothest curtsy she has ever been seen to do. Upon rising, she makes a concerted effort to keep the coolness ingrained in her from her training, despite what may be going on inside her head. She turns to Micana at the question, nodding assent. "Yes, Micana Sedai."

Raemira stands before a podium, which holds three golden chalices filled with water. She watches Kyra and Micana, her eyes studious, waiting and sympathetic.

Atalanta remains as motionless as a statue.

Micana expression is not kind but more empty of emotion. She says "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."

Kyra nods once again in acceptance, but waits for the second.

Micana says "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 Micana's 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.""

At 'to seek, to strive, is to know danger,' Atalanta's lips move almost imperceptably, mouthing the words.

The eloquent silence afterwards wrings a reaction from Kyra's face. Only the slightest frown, as if to quell a shiver, then yet another nod.

[Channeling] Amara embraces Saidar.

[Channeling] Atalanta embraces saidar.

Raemira watches silently, her eyes watching the ceremony with a bit of reserve.

Micana says "If you are sure.. This is your last chance to refuse. Do so now and it counts only as the first. You may still try two more times. If you accept now, there is no turning back. There is no shame in refusing. Are you sure you wish to continue?"

Tongue darting out to wet dry lips, Kyra spares a glance towards the arches and for a moment, that seems eternity for her, weighs what she knows now. Turning back to Micana, she states resolutely with a level gaze, "I am ready."

Amara glances at the arches then over to Raemira.

Micana nods once. "Then remove your clothing, Novice, that you may enter the testing unfettered." She turns toward Raemira, silently waiting for the ritual to begin while awaiting the novice to strip.

With smooth movements strangely precise and controlled, Kyra efficiently removes the Novice dress a good deal easier than she removed her clothing upon arrival into Tower. The rest goes too, folded carefully and placed neatly to the side.

Raemira watches patiently, then starts to intone in a very monotone voice, unlike her true one, with a sympathetic look corssing her features, "Whom do you bring with you, Sister?" Raemira directs her voice toward Micana."

[Channeling] Amara channels Saidar in its pure form.

The yellow sister sitting closest to the third arch starts to embrance the source, then channel into the arches, empowering them.

Kyra doesn't seem too bothered by the lack of clothing. She was expecting it and it was similar to the baths in Shienar. The circumstance, however, was quite different.

[Channeling] Atalanta channels saidar in it's pure form, sending it into the arches.

Amara stares fixedly at the arches, those nearest to her starting to glow.

Atalanta stares at the arches as well with the same effect.

Micana begins the words of the ritual's response. She answers, in a toneless voice, "One who comes as a candidate for Acceptance."

"Is she ready?" returns Raemira's own intomation.

Micana says "She is ready to leave behind what she was, and passing through her fears, gain Acceptance."

Raemira glances carefully at Kyra, still directing her words to Micana, "Does she know her fears?"

Micana responds in a steady tone, her voice clear and true, "She has never faced them, but is now willing."

"Then, let her face her fears." Raemira gives Kyra a sympathetic glance, before her features harden somewhat.

Kyra swallows at that, regardless her time along the Blight's borders

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

Raemira continues to watch quietly, almost holding her breath it seems, as if waiting for the Novice to step through.

Amara continues to stare at the arches she's powering, not looking at the novice.

Kyra squares her shoulders, then staring deliberately at what she intends to face, strides through.

The scene surrounding you is that of your home, back in Shienar. Anything of yoru present life is forgotten, and this is what you know to be true, what is presented before you. You are 'home' with your family, with both mother and father. You also have a younger brother and sister. It seems your father never left you, and decided to take your mother along with him when he was recalled to duty and married her soon afterwards.

Your sister tugs at your arm, being the youngest of the crew, barely aging 10. "Come on Ky, you promised! I wanna to go the market now, I dont care if the Trollocs are out there" Her lower lip sticks out stubbornly."

You hear a faint echoing, that's almost not there, as you enter the arches: The way will come but once. Be steadfast.

Once the girl is in the arches, Atalanta allows herself to chew on her lower lip briefly, and push up the glasses while staring and continueing to power the arch.

The young girl tugs at Kyra's arm once again, "If you dont take me..." She bgins to get indignant, "I'll go myself, alone."

Kyra arches a brow at the tug on her arm, then sighs. She can't refuse her sister much. "Alright, but you promise you stick by me and if anything happens...you mind. Understand?" A raised finger in the girl's face indicates the seriousness of her command.

Jessica nods, quite quickly so. "I promise... Cross my heart" And she does cross her heart. At about that moment, a tall fellow arrives, not too lanky though not chubby either, "And how are my two favorite girls anyway?" He smiles down at both Kyra and Jessica, or in Kyra's case, equal height, more or less. One can tell there is love on this man's face.

Kyra's face breaks out into a smile at his arrival. "Well, one of us is whining," a pointed look towards Jessica at that, "and we're about to go to the market. As I supposedly promised."

The man appears to frown faintly, "There's trouble a foot. If you go, I dont want you wandering away from the main road." He watches both girls, his expression rather dark and bleak, "Understood?" His words are spoken a bit harsher than needed.

Jessica quickly nods, "Yes father..." She casts a side glance at Kyra, watching her sister with awe.

Kyra arches a brow at that, but she trusts him implicitly. "Of course, you know me better than that." She ruffles the younger one's hair affectionately. "We'll come back safe and sound."

The man nods, "Good." His words are terse, though after a few moments he breaks into a smile.

At her father's assured look, Jessica promptly takes Kyra's hands and pulls her toward the gates, "Come on Ky, hurry, lets go, get movin'" She never was one who wanted to stay in a place for long.

Kyra chuckles, allowing herself to be tugged along, and giving their father a reassuring wave. She /does/ know how to take care of them after all. Soon, the two are well on their way down the main road as instructed, towards the market. Kyra allows a smile at the younger one's chatter, keeping up with her younger sister easily and interjecting a response when it seemed to be needed.

After awhile down the road Jessica lets go of Kyra's hand. There appears to be movement at a nearby house, though it seems uncannily quiet. "Hey, whatcha think's happening over there?" Before Kyra can say anything, however, Jessica starts up in a run toward the house, curiousity peaked, it seems.

"Jessica! Wait! You don't know if it's dangerous." Seeing that the girl is paying no attention whatever to her warning cries, Kyra follows at a run, already gaining ground on her shorter sister's strides.

Of course, being of her own mind, Jessica continues to run, despite the dangers involved. Movement continues around the farmhouse present, and after a moment or two, one can indeed make out the misshapen form of a Trolloc.

"Oh-my-light..." comes Jessica's small voice, and as she speaks, one catches a glimpse of her, snorts and begins to move steadfastly within her direction....

Something in the back of your mind rumbles: The way will come but once. Be steadfast.

Kyra shakes her head at something she hears, continuing to run for the Jessica, heart pounding at more than just exertion now. "Get back here, now!" she cries almost desperately, eyes now darting around to try and spot more of the beasts.

A silvery arch is seen to the side, in a direction away from the danger of the trolloc and the vulnerable Jessica. "The way back comes but once, be steadfast." echoes in memory.

And more of the beasts she does find. One comes unexpectedly from behind a tree and scoops Jessica from the ground, as if she were a sack of potatos, "KYRA!" Comes Jessica's voice, tinged with nothing more than pure fear, "Help me..."

Though help is something you surely know you cannot give. Somewhere nearby, you can finally smell something, a cookpot, a feast... wretched in smell it is.

Kyra falters a step at the repetition, noticing the glow of the arch that offer to tear her away from aiding her beloved sister. She nearly gags at the stench of the cookpots and she takes a few more steps towards Jessica...

The Silvery arch flickers against the sky, The gleam reflecting a glint of light as it shimmers...waiting. "The way back comes but once, Be steadfast" The words hover in half memory.

The trollocs continue to carry Jessican off, and after a few moments try to shove her, wholly, into one of the caldrons.

Kyra nearly drops to her knees at the sight, but some strength keeps her at her feet and with an anguished cry, she heads for the now-fading arch.

Kyra leaves the Arch One.

As soon as Kyra comes out of the Arch, Raemira can be seen standing next to her with one of the chalices. She unceremoniously dumps the water over her body, "You are washed clean of what sin you may have done" She begins, "And of those done against you. You are washed clean of what crime you may have committed, and of those committed against you." A faint pause, "You come to use washed clean and pure, in heart and soul."

Kyra emerges from the first arch, and stumbles to a halt, fire blazing from her eyes, through tears. A single choked off cry, "I..." then she looks around as if the others were to blame for the life she just lived.

Amara stares solemnly at the arches, continuing to power them with Saidar.

Atalanta doesn't turn her gaze from the arches, continuing to power them.

Kyra shivers at more than just the chill from the water dripping off her body. She looks around once again, asking "Tell me that didn't happen."

Micana stands beside the arch awaiting her exit. A quickly surpressed hint of relief is in her eyes as Kyra steps out the arch. Micana's glance moves from Raemira to Kyra as she continues, placing 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."

Raemira gives Kyra a quiet glance, sympathy within her eyes. She says no other words, not speaking of the experience. Relief also mars Raemira's eyes, however, as if frightened Kyra would not return.

Atalanta pushes up her glasses several times before returning to her straight ahead gaze.

Kyra takes a shuddering breath, letting it out slowly in some effort to calm herself. It is clear that the effort is not fully sufficient. Nevertheless, she faces the second arch, then with a final glance around, steps through.

Kyra enters the Arch Two.

The scene that unfolds before you is this: You are within the Tower Walls, in the practice yard, just as if it were any normal day. A lone visitor, a man, has come to pay a visit to you. No one you know surely, and something quite unexpected. He seems old, though not overly so, and well muscled. "Good day..." He begins, quite unsteadily, very near so uncertainly, "You are Kyra? Correct?" he folds his arms before him.

You hear something rumbling in the back of your mind, a gentle warning, all other past things forgotten in the meantime: The way will come but once. Be steadfast.

Kyra turns to face the stranger with a questioning look. "Peace to you. You have named me correctly. And now you have me at a disadvantage for I cannot name you."

"Nor would you have been able to...." His voice rumbles as he continues to study the girl, "I have oft heard of you, and your adventures. I had not thought I'd be standing here this day however." He pauses, consideringly, "I am Celorn...." Another pause, uncomfortably so, "Some tell me, I'm your father."

Kyra's face registers no reaction for a moment, clearly taken aback. A brief shake of her head rouses her from that shock, then she asks cautiously "M..my father?" Narrowed eyes, "How are you certain? How am I to be certain?"

The Shienaran man, Celorn, watches for several long moments, "Truth be told, I am not certain.... A friend of your mother's confronted me... a few months after she died." You may remember that your mother nearly three years ago, about the time that you entered the Tower, "I have been searching for you since, though I have no proof upon the matter. I just have my word."

Kyra shakes her head coolly. "I have not spoken with my mother since...she frowns slightly trying to remember, "well, since I left to search you out." She tilts her head in study of the man that now claims to have turned her mother into the bitter, woman she remembers. "She didn't want me to find you."

The man shifts a bit uncomfortably, "I suppose she did not." He offers, "It is not always a good thing to find that one has lied and is of noble birth, after times shared. I loved her dearly, and wanted her to love me for who I was, but..." His voice grows silent, "But I was called away. That too, I am sorry for."

Kyra arches a brow at information she was not aware of, "You could have left word." oddly enough in defense of a long-estranged mother. "She had no idea what happened. Can you blame her for thinking as she did all those years?" Kyra assumes that in talking with her friend's mother, he would have found out exactly what happened in the meantime.

Celorn sadly shakes his head, "She was left word... she chose never to act on it. I did not even know about you, until after.... After her death. I had tried writing several times, only to have my letters returned." His voice almost pleads, "I will leave you.... here, now, if that is what you wish, though I had never wanted to abandon her, nor would I have you had I known."

Kyra relents a bit, the change evident in her posture. Holding up a hand, "My apologies, I was taught better than this. I've some time at the moment. Perhaps we could talk somewhere?" Her eyes continue to measure the man though.

Celorn inclines his head, though seems to glance about nervously, "Here....? Now?" He appears afraid, of something, though its obvious its not you, perhaps his past? He clears his throat faintly. A glimmer of movement is missed, in the confines of the practice yard. Something slinks along, though seems unseen, almost a shadow of a man.

Kyra shrugs slightly, waving towards an empty bench. "Here, perhaps something to eat. Whereever. Not for long, though, I've chores to report to."

The man nods, glancnig about and missing the moving figure, "Alright..." He starts to move forward, though before he does, a crossbow bolt comes out of nowhere, narrowly missing him, "What in the light." His eyes move about, searching hastily for the one who would do such a thing within the Tower grounds.

Kyra spins in the direction the bolt came from, eyes already searching for the culprit and raising her voice to call for help.

Just as Kyra is about to raise the call, another bolt comes out of nowhere, or seemingly so, though this time the faint traces of a man can be seen, ashen in color, eyes intent upon Celorn. "Kyra no... Get out of the wa..." He starts to speak, before he becomes impaled in the shoulder, a scream eminating from his voice.

A silver arch slowly rises against the distant wall of the practice yard, gleaming against the stone. "The way back comes but once, be steadfast" Echoes in the back of the mind, a persistant thread of almost memory.

Kyra's eyes widen as the bolt hits home, stepping forward to try and catch him, should he fall. Something catches the corner of her eye, and a slight jolt of recognition goes through her when she sees the arch. Her gaze slides off of it though, still searching for the bowman.

The 'bowman' now has a sword drawn, crossbow discarded. He starts to slink along at a fast pace, eyes set and driven upon Celorn, your father whom you've sought to speak to in so long of a time, your only known existing family member left. Celorn staggers a bit, but does not fall, trying to regain his wits, "Go... Get help... " He cries out, hastily trying to get his own sword in hand, his arm hindering him a bit.

The arch sets firm, silent, and for the moment, solid. "The way back comes but once. Be steadfast" Again whispers in memory, called forth by the silvery curve.

Kyra puts out a supporting hand to Celorn, already placing herself in the direct line of the attacker; and feeling quite inadequate for lack of weapons.

The attacker comes forth, drawing his sword up to sweep not at Kyra,but the person behind her though looks as if he'll slice through her if needed to get to his Quarry. At the last possible moment, Celorn attempts to push Kyra out of the way to take the brunt of the blow.

Be steadfast.

Atalanta pushes up her glasses repeatedly as she channels through the arch. How long has it been?

Raemira continues to stand by, watching silently, her breath held tightly, it seems, as if concerned for the girl's fate. Her eyes go over those present.

Micana glances toward Raemira, feeling the humm of the arches. The time of usual exiting is long past and she turns back to face the second arch, catching her breath as she studies it.

Kyra glances between Celorn, the attacker and the arch. Perhaps if she could just buy him time...giving her father a push away, she runs full speed towards the attacker, using momentum to try and knock him away and allow Celorn's chance at escape. But even as she does so, the flicker of the distant arch catches her attention and she is forced to run headlong for that instead.

Atalanta adjusts her shawl. Adjusts glasses. Adjusts shawl again. Folds and unfolds her hands.

Kyra leaves the Arch Two.

Atalanta closes her eyes, hoping nobody sees how relieved she is.

Amara's shoulders seem to relax the slightest bit, her gaze flicking a moment to Kyra before looking back to the arches.

Kyra half stumbles out again, panting from exertion. That same look of incredulity is in her gaze, though she seems to still be looking to remedy the situation she just witnessed.

Another cold chalice of water appears to find itself splashing over top of Kyra as she exits the arch. Relief appears on Raemira's features for a brief moment, then they harden as she intones, voice emotionless, "You are washed clean of false pride. You are washed clean of false ambition. You come to us, washed clean in heart and soul."

Micana eyes rest on the novice, her expression becoming completely devoid of emotion. She .moves to stand in front of the third arch, waiting without any show of impatience. 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." The words of the ancient ritual are solemnly entoned.

Kyra's face is pale, paler than it has ever been before. Shivering again at more than just the cold of the washing, she stands beside Micana, apparently nearly shorn of all resolve. Her glance around is almost pleading this time, but she doesn't expect much. Another squaring of her shoulders, then she steps through.

Kyra enters the Arch Three.

The scene unfolds before you, all past events forgotten as this becomes reality. You are dressed in normal clothing, whichever of your choosing. Upon your shoulders a shawl sits, Green in nature (this does not necessarily denote your Ajah in the future :). You are sitting upon a bench within the Tower Gardens, reading a book when you hear a few voices speaking out.

"Good, the time is set then. Make sure the maid knows what to do. We want to time this perfectly." It's a voice you do not recognize, nor the other that returns, "Aye, I understand, mistress. We would not want to spoil the Amyrlin's 'surprise'" The way that this last bit is said, seems to send chills up your spin.

In the back of your mind, you feel a tingling: The way will come but once. Be steadfast.

Something else tugs at your memory as well. A past conversation between some members of the Hall, about dispersing with the current Amyrlin, any means they see fit to do. They had thought their voices were low enough so as not to be heard. Something tugs at you, perhaps warns you that you need to tell the Amyrlin of her fate. A movement in the bushes lets you know you've been spotted.

Kyra maintains the expression of utmost interest in her book; false at this point. She continues to read, seemingly calmly for some long moments. A feigned stop, makes her look around and ever so casually rises from the bench. The stride towards the Tower is measured and again, calculatingly casual.

A sister, someone you vaguely remember to have just returned from a voyage, steps within your path, "Ah.. Kyra Sedai, just the person I wished to speak to...." A false smile appears on Liselle's features. "I have need to discuss with you your plans upon the blight."

Kyra arches a brow; she's never quite gotten rid of that expressiveness of commentary. "Peace to you Liselle Sedai. What of my plans?" She maintains the feigned lack of urgency with some skill due to her training in the Tower.

As Liselle speaks another enters the Tower, moving with some unknown, or possibly known person. She appears to be a new servant, one just entering its ranks. Liselle smiles warmly at Kyra, though at the same time it lacks the depth it should, "I was thinking of going along with you. I know how found you and your Gaidin are of stopping Trolloc raids. Perhaps you need an extra hand or two?"

Kyra's eyes flick to the entrance imperceptibly, returning quickly to the sister before her. "An extra hand? There really is no need. Have you been to the Borderlands of late?" She starts walking towards the Tower, walking as she converses - it's natural enough.

Still, Liselle is intent on hampering Kyra's movements, "Aye, actually I have. From what I've seen, they are in need of more people to help..." She steps deliberately in Kyra's path, "Of course, I will understand if you do not wish to accept the help of a fellow sister...." There is a slight emphasis on sister, as if it means something, though may not at the same time. Her smile because a bit seedy, "As will others I am certain." Liselle has also been known to talk people into doing things they normally would not, perhaps the reason why she dons the blue shawl.

Kyra pauses in her approach to the Tower somewhat. "It's not that I am unwilling to accept help. But with our few numbers, we can ill afford to send a concentration of Sisters to the same place. I can handle the post I have chosen, perhaps you could help in some other part of the Borderlands." Suddenly leaning forward, she attempts to impinge her presence on the other Sister; few can avoid the inadvertant step backwards. "Now if you'll excuse me, I've important duties to attend."

"Of course, Kyra... Of course..." A faint smile marrs Liselle's features, eyes plotting it seems, perhaps on how to better handle the other woman. Inside, a roar of activity can be heard, as well as a few screams. The Tower shakes and rumbles for a moment and a loud *boom* is sounded as well. Should you turn around, you'll find Liselle hurrying toward the stables, going somewhere perhaps.

Despite herself, Kyra jumps at the *boom*, a frown immediately crossing her features. She hesitates for a moment, unsure of whether to satisfy her curiosity at what caused the noise or to apprehend the suspicious Sister heading for the exact opposite destination that one of clear conscience would head.

Someone comes bursting from the Tower, screaming, "The Amyrlin... she's.. de... dead...!" At this point, Liselle speeds her hasty retreat a bit more, unwanting to have any attention on her at the moment.

Certain of the woman's involvement, Kyra growls an oath, then unceremoniously picks up her skirts to run towards the retreating back of the Blue Sister. She makes no other sound, no detraction to the ground she eats up with her running strides.

A silvery arch appears beside the tower steps, the arch echoing the shape of the stones framing the doorway. "The way back comes but once. Be steadfast"

More screams and shouts can be heard coming from the Tower as well, more so stating that the Keeper, too, has perished in the explosion. Liselle appears to disappear around a corner, though reappears later riding her horse away from the area.

The arch stands as if it belongs where it is placed. The silent beacon stands directly opposite the fleeing Liselle, smirking over her shoulder as she heads toward freedom. "The way back comes but once. Be steadfast." again tickles the mind..the thought not Kyra's own.

So intent is Kyra on catching the other woman that she doesn't notice the arch's appearance. When the horse appears bearing her prey, she leaps into Saidar, almost instinctively reaching for a flow of Air and Spirit throwing it up as a barrier at first to slow the woman. The screams dimly register on her awareness, but register they do.

Atalanta blinks. Something...She glances at Amara.

The horse stops, almost instictively, at the invisible wall before it, throwing Liselle from the area. She too, embraces saidar, though to quickly weave a blanket of air beneath her before she falls, though she does not escape without brusing. Her eyes glare fiercely, "That was not a good thing to do...." Her attention goes toward Kyra, eyes buring.

Be steadfast, the way will come but once.

Amara glances over at Atalanta, frowning slightly, but looks back to the gates with a determined set to her jaw, continuing to pour in Saidar.

"....once....steadfast... ... ... once....Steadfast"

Atalanta never ceases in her pouring of saidar, but she begins pushing up her glasses again.

Raemira appears to frown faintly, folding her arms before her as she watches the third arch, almost too expectantly.

Anger sweeps over Kyra's features, matching Liselle stare for stare. She knows she can no longer do anything about the Amyrlin; there are others better at Healing should there be a need. But this..this, she can exact payment. She draws on another flow of Spirit, this one a blade.

Time goes on and those at the arches have been channeling and maintaining a hard pace.

Micana looks at the three, a hint of apprehension on her face. She looks at Raemira as if wondering just how long they can maintain the outpour of power.

"I would not do that... child" Liselle's features harden somewhat, as her own flow moves into a blade of pure spirit.... An echo comes to you once more during that time, and the archway begins to flicker, as of staring to wink out of existance, Be steadfast, comes a faint sound.

Amara keeps all of her concentration on powering the ter'angreal, frowning at it. She looks like she'd be sweating if she let herself.

Silver loses a little of its brightness, starting to fade, un-noticed as yet. As Kyra looks into Liselle's eyes, she can observe the reflection of the arch behind her. "The way back comes but once... be steadfast"

Atalanta chews her lower lip, wringing her hands. No sweat at least but not exactly hiding her worry.

The flicker finally slices through Kyra's awareness, though her Spirit flow still remains poised to cut the other woman off from the Source. Kyra swallows hard, abruptly changing the flows to Air and Water, this one though, directly under her feet. Water to slide on and Air to move. Tearing her eyes away from Liselle with an audible snarl, she hurls herself towards the arch, her flows aiding her speed...barely getting through before the last flicker signals its disappearance.

Cold water pours out over Kyra's features. "You are washed clean of Kyra al'Tran from Fal Moran. You are washed clean..." Raemira intones, her voice droning, "... of all ties that bind you to the world. You come to us washed clean, in heart and soul. You are Kyra al'Tran, Accepted of the White Tower." As Raemira speaks, you'll notice that several more Aes Sedai have poured into the chamber, each bearing a different colored shawl to represent the seven Ajahs. "You are sealed to us, now." Her features remain unsmiling however she appears sympathetic still yet, even should her eyes be cool, and unemotinal at the moment. "Welcome... Daughter" Daughter, not child, not Novice, but one amongst the Tower who has earned respect. She leans forward and kisses each cheek. Looking about, you find a new set of clothing, and a ring, admist the piles, waiting for you.

Atalanta visably relaxes.

[Channeling] Amara stops her weave of Saidar, and releases the source.

Kyra stumbles headlong from the last arch, dropping to her knees at the force of her own momentum, eyes still blazing; every shred of her being aching to finish what she thinks is right. The splash of water over her blurs her vision and she reaches a hand to brush her hair away from her eyes, blinking at the reception.

Several of the Aes Sedai present nod, breaths of air being held let out in unison. Seldom does it happen that Novice returns, or actually passes the test. A few move forward to congratulate the rather misbegotten Accepted.

Micana lets out the breath she has been holding. She moves forward to take her place. Micana, too, kisses Kyra on both cheeks. "Welcome Accepted, dry yourself and put on your new dress." She awaits Ramaera's placing the ring.

Atalanta stands and leaves Pillows.

Atalanta arises to join the milling crowd of Aes Sedai, leaving the side of the arches, her worry now once again buried beneath the mask.

Amara stands, letting out a small sigh of relief, but her expression is composed though she looks somewhat tired.

Raemira moves over to the podium and takes up the ring, then goes toward Kyra, waiting until she can stand before speaking, "Please hold out your left hand, Kyra."

Taking another shuddering breath, Kyra moves almost woodenly to accept kisses and towel. After donning the new dress, she steps towards the Amyrlin and holds out her hand as bidden. Still pale.

Micana murmurs softly, her concern for the exausted Aes Sedai who powered the testing making her hurry her words somewhat. "You will find the next few weeks harder than any you have yet been through. Rest well. You may move to the Accepted wing, and start your duties and classes as accepted once you have been supervised in this new task." She turns toward those who powered the rings. "Do you need help Sisters? I can have food sent to your rooms."

Raemira gently places a golden ring, of serpent eatting it's tail, upon the third finger of Kyra's left hand, "You have earned the right to wear this ring. Let it it be a symbol of your testing, and Acceptance. You may only wear it upon this finger. Should you ever raise to the shawl, you may wear it on whatever finger of your choosing."

Atalanta says ,tiredness showing in voice if not face, "I'd appreciate it, please, sister." she murmurs something else to Micana.

Atalanta mutters to Micana, "... light. Seeing... from... into... different perspective."

Amara says "Perhaps just some chilled juice.."

Raemira adds also, "It is also a custom of the Tower, not to speak of what has happened within the arches." She watches Kyra, to see if she has understood, "No matter what has happened"

Kyra nods mutely at the Amyrlin's words, her manner strangely distant and far from her customary one. "I understand, Mother." she almost whispers. It is evident that she has retreated in some facet of her being that allows her to keep functioning.

Raemira inclines her head, "You are given this evening and all of tomorrow to yourself, free from chores and lessons that you would otherwise attend. Go... rest."

Micana nods to Raemira's words. No caution regarding her mentioning this to novices is necessary, that part of the ritual very plain on the matter. She turns to Raemira with a curtsey, silently waiting dismissal to order refreshement for those needing it and for Kyra to be sent to their rooms.

Raemira looks up finally and glances around. She nods to Micana, her assent in dismissing the others, "You may all go about your business again."

Atalanta heads out of the chamber, pushing up her glasses.

Atalanta exits the chamber through the secret doorway.

Amara curtseys and heads for the door.

Amara exits the chamber through the secret doorway.