You pass through the entrance of a large wall, leading to the Courtyard.

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.

Colors seem to change from bright pastels to earthy tones and vibrant reds as the days start to grow colder and the days shorter. There are several benches about the grounds where one might be able to sit and relax. The noon sun rises high in the sky, shining down brightly into the courtyard grounds. All around you can see that the area is a bustle of activity as Novices and Accepted alike work on their chores or mill about on various benches in the yard doing their studies. Aes Sedai clump together in small groups, holding private conversations, keeping a careful eye on events in the area.

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.

Velenne stands back up now and clears her throat.."Maybe I should go lie down in my room.." she says softly.

Weste nods to Velenne. "Yes, perhaps that would be best. I will notify your teachers later today, though you may have to make up the work later."

Velenne nods and curtseys again before starting towards the tower.

Devon looks over towards Sionil and heads that way, taking the time to curtsey easily, smiling at the gray Sister. "Light shine, Sionil Sedai." Her eyes flicker towards Velenne and Weste. "Is everything alright? Did something happen?"

Sionil smiles briefly to Devon "Good evening, Accepted"

Whistling, which is probably not unusual in and of itself accompanies one of the trainees in the gaidin program into the courtyard. Zannick is tossing a pair of carved wooden spheres from hand to hand as he walks out of the practice area, and meanders around a pair of talking inductee to find a seat on a bench.

Velenne starts up the steps and stumbles a bit..just barely catching herself. she stops and stands a moment before starting again and making it to the top. Then she slips into the tower.

Velenne walks up the steps and goes through the main doors of the Tower.

Velenne has left.

Adri enters the Tower Courtyard through the Alindrelle Gates.

Adri has arrived.

Tip tap tip tap tip tap. The sound of Adri's cane cracking against the cobble stones can be heard long before one actually sees Adri.

Weste smiles to Devon. "Peace favor you, Accepted. No, nothing has happened here, anyways."

Devon nods, taking the words with comfort. "Thank you, Aes Sedai." Her eyes flicker towards Sionil, and then over towards that irritating clacking sound. "Gaidin," she says with a curtsey.

Sionil looks over the new head of the Tar Valon Council "Good evening."

Zannick is sitting on a bench in the yard, between chores and classes. A pair of small wooden spheres mill around in his hands under the influence of nimble fingers. He looks vaguely bored. He looks up hearing the cane tapping sound he recognises.

Adri looks to Sionil and salutes her with his cane. "hello Aes Sedai. Anything I can do for you?" His mind travels back to their recent conversation about making laws.

Weste turns with everyone else, and nods low to Adri. She then turns to Sionil and is about to speak, but Adri beats her to the punch.

Sionil shrugs a little "Have you decided when you will have your first council meeting?"

Adri smiles. "within the month I should think. We have done quite a bit already without meeting."

Sionil nods "I heard. Your races."

Adri chuckles. "Oh that...we have little to do with that actually. We are a sponsor, but the Derby would go on with or without us."

Sionil nods "Ah, I see."

Adri nods his head with an odd smile. "Good." That said, he turns his attention to Zannick whom he spotted while coming in. he begins moving that way. "HOw did your lesson with the Prune come out Zan?"

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

Emmeran has arrived.

Kelsyn enters the Courtyard through an opening in the large wall surrounding the Practice Yard.

Kelsyn has arrived.

Emmeran emerges from the Tower this time sans basket. It seems the delivery has been successful.

A familiar figure exits the practice field of the Tower compound, looking as though he's on the prowl for something or someone. As Kelsyn pauses, narrowed eyes search out his prey, scanning each person near and far from him. So intent is he on his search, he forgets to hold the wall in place.

Zannick looks up, the spheres rotating in his fingers pausing as Adri addresses him. His expression is surprised for a moment. Then he laughs a little, "What? Oh. Light Shine on you Gaidin Adri. Hmm.. a bit short, but successful enough I suppose." Zannick's enthusiasm has waned just slightly from the previous days.

Devon moves to find herself a seat on one of the benches, and opens the book in hand and starts skimming through the pages. Her glance flickers upwards at time, but for the most part she's oblivious.

Spying Zannick near where Adri stands, Kelsyn starts to stalk in that direction, looking much like a panther ready to pounce on its prey. His steps are light, and confident as he moves through the courtyard, eyes narrowing even further when he spies with him Zannick speaks.

Adri nods his head with a smile. "Well I am glad you did not have to sit for him for too terribly long." it's painfully obvious that Adri does not care for Ensygn. "Perhaps you would care to go riding tomorrow evening? Assuming you can get the chores out of the way before hand?" he does not see Kel coming.

Zannick stands up off the bench and places the wooden spheres in his jacket pocket. Did the sphere's just chime, or was it the tiny silver bell on the boy's single braid? Hard to tell. "I'm not terribly sure what he was on about." Zan responds, letting his hands slip into his pockets. "Things are.. not the same as I remember them here." he adds. That statement means something, but its vague. He grins and nods then, "Yeah, that would be pretty cool. Have something in mind?" He also does not see the elusive Gaidin approaching. Look for something too long, and you wont see it when it's right before you.

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

Aurora has arrived.

Zannick is standing up talking to Adri by a bench. Keslyn appears to be stalking towards them both.

Adri shakes his head. "Things do change around here Zan. Not much we can do bout that. However...there is no law that says we can't go out and have a little fun on the morrow."

The panther continues to stalk, but stops short of pouncing on his prey. Instead, Kelsyn's form lingers over the two who speak with one another; Adri and Zannick. He waits along the sidelines politely enough to get himself noticed yet not intrude into the conversation at the same time. Instead, he decides to hold up the tree he finds himself next to instead, half closing his eyes like the lazy cat he can appear to be at times.

You sense Adri winks

Devon continues reading through her book, content on the bench where she rests, just catching the last bits of shade from a nearby tree. Passing novices call out greetings matched with curtseys, distracting her, although she soon goes back to her reading.

Adri notices Kelsyn and proceeds to take a step to the side. "I am sorry Kelsyn Gaidin. I hope I am not keeping you from whatever you might have planned with your student." Seems Kelsyn is one of the few men around here Adri...well is willing to respect.

Aurora swishes out of the Tower, looking much better pleased than earlier this morning. She wanders over to Devon and settles down into the grass beside her, her skirts forming a smooth ring around her. "Light shine Devon. Oh, don't let me distract you from your book. I just wanted a bit of fresh air." Tilted eyes lazily wander over the courtyard, a serene smile on her lips.

Respect is not a hard thing to find around Kelsyn; for without it, the man would likely pull a person's intestings through their nose just to prove a point. Kelsyn grunts non-commitally in Adri's direction, but at least receives his recognition. "Simply heard the boy was looking for me. Been busy with the Keeper and that Gaidin of hers." Another grunt ensues. Kelsyn has never been one to mix and mingle with Shamus, Micana's other Gaidin. The reasons for it are not quite clear either.

Adri's sidestep causes the trainee to look that direction as well and Zan nearly jumps out of his skin finding his elusive sponsor lounging indolently against the tree, "Thanks Adri." He replies sideways in a soft voice and then louder to Kelsyn, "Light shine on you Kelsyn Gaidin. I'm back, as promised." A bow is given with haste.

Adri takes another step back indicating Zan with his cane. "Well do not let me gt in your way." He looks to Zan. "We will talk again soon."

No problem Aurora. No offense, but Devon hasn't even noticed you. She continues to stare at the book in front of her, at times making a notation in one column, or flipping a page only to turn back to the previous and scribble something there as well. As a passing novice calls a greeting, Devon glances up, nodding slightly, irritation marring her features. And then the next thing she knows she's a foot or so in the air, plopping back down on the bench. Deep breathes. Long, deep breathes. "Aurora, you nearly scared me to death. Light, let me know you're there next time!"

Light Kelsyn is even capable of cowing Zannick a bit. And he's mister congeniality people person! "We will Adri." The dark skinned young man replies with a grin, and then his attention is all given to his sponsor, the grin calming a bit as it turns back to Kelsyn.

"Light shine, High Ambassador." Kelsyn returns to Adri, nodding his head a bit to the former Gaidin of the Tower. He, at least, remains respectful to Adri, despite rumors of his instability. He then turns his attention back to Zannick, a brow cocking upward just in the slightest. "We must talk, you and I. Care to join me? Or, would you rather do so... here?" He does gives Zannick the choice, smirking as he takes in the presence of those within the courtyard, Adri's company excluded.

Aurora laughs softly and flutters her eyelashes, smiling innocently up at Devon from her seat on the ground, though why she chose to sit there instead of on the bench is a mystery. "I am terribly sorry Devon. I take it your reading is engrossing?" She doesn't pay the slightest bit of attention to the other activities in the courtyard, at least not in a way that is noticable. She plucks up a blade of grass and starts twisting and braiding and weaving it in her fingers, just to keep them occupied.

Adri gives the 2 their space. Tip tap tip tap...he begins walking away after saluting Kelsyn with his cane. "On you as well Kelsyn Gaidin." Hmm. Whwre to go from here?

Devon chuckles, picking the book up off the ground where it landed after her start, and turning to face you. "Not engrossing as much as it was thought provoking. Considering this, or that, while trying to put myself back into the scene. Sometimes it helps me decipher things." Her eyebrow arches slightly. "Is the ground more comfortable than the bench? Or did you just prefer the bugs crawling on the ground to the cool stone?"

Zannick pulls his hands out of his pockets, suddenly recalling that's where they are planted. "As ever, I-- leave the choice to your discretion, Kelsyn Gaidin, sir." Zannick wrinkles his brow at his near stuttering. Kelsyn is the ONLY person who can do that to him. Odd. "I must say I'm relieved to see you still at the Tower, Gaidin." Zan adds conversationally, probably to not be totally set to quaking by the half crazy gaidin.

"Bugs have their good points," Aurora responds idly, plucking up another blade of grass to add to her weaving. "Actually I was just hoping to get some nice grass stains." The Light only knows why. "You should try it some time. It's quite liberating."

Nor does Kelsyn pay the slightest bit of attention to the goings on of the channeling students. His focus lies on the menfolk of the Tower. And, already does he have someone to bend and shape to his own will, should he get his way. A new hobby for the Gaidin really, after spending so many months keeping to himself after stepping down from his former title of Master Gaidin. He grunts at Zannick, "Being bonded to the Keeper does that boy, keeps me here." He shrugs his shoulders, as though that's the only thing that keeps him in place. "Come, we'll go to the Candlekeep where we can talk then." Without waiting for Zannick to follow, Kelsyn starts off toward the south harbor gates.

Devon chuckles, sticking with her spot on the bench for now. "Grass stains, huh? I think I grew out of that phase even before I left Caemlyn. I find pleasure elsewhere, nowadays." Find pleasure, cause mischief, they're synonymous, really. Bad Rora, being a bad influence on her and everything. "Liberating? It only means you have clean them, although... To see the look on a novices face if you asked her to clean a grass stained dress, would be interesting."

Bending and shaping. Hmm. Sounds painful. But the tairien sworn knows enough from his prior exposure to the gaidin to realise it hurts less if you don't resist. Zannick trots after Kelsyn, being sure not to fall behind. He well knows Kelsyn is not waiting for him, but expecting him to follow quickly.

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

Kelsyn has left.

You pass through the SouthHarbor Gate under the watchful eyes of the Tower Guards.

SouthHarbor Road: Tar Valon, Tar Valon

There is a distinct difference of structure in this area, almost as if it were man made instead of Ogier. Inns and merchant houses are decorated with statues, niches, and friezes in an attempt to imitate the original stone masons. The roads are paved in cobblestone instead of the large smooth paving blocks of the main city, depicting this area to be newer, even if by thousands of years, than the rest of the city.

Leaves change colors and fall from the trees and bushes one might see while walking down the street. A cool crisp autumn chill can be felt, showing signs in of the impending winter cold. A small man carries a torch, lighting each lamp that can be seen down the street as dusk starts to set in. Even as the day fades into evening, people can still be seen milling about in conversation or doing last minute business for the day.

Large white gates loom before you to the northwest, leading into the Courtyard of the White Tower. The path that leads to Osendrelle Square lies to the north. Waterman's Plaza can be found by traveling south on the wide stretch of road.

Kelsyn opens the door to the Candlekeep Cafe and enters.

Kelsyn has left.

You go into the Candlekeep Cafe

Candlekeep Cafe: Tar Valon, Tar Valon

Built on the ruins of an old tavern that burned down several winters ago, better known to the older inhabitants of Tar Valon as Will's Tavern. The new owners have come in and resurected the structure from the fire damage that was keeping the property condemned. Brand new woodwork of maple has been put up. Multiple tables are spread out across the room and in the back a few couches are placed for people to enjoy a nice spot of tea. For tea is what this place sells. Safe enough for young adults to converse a late night of philosphy without worrying about drunken riots going on. The small kitchen also provides its patrons with some small snack food, serving just that with tea instead of full meals that they can get at the many restaurants that exist in the city. To one side of the cafe lies an opening that leads to a small library for patrons to browse and enjoy a tome of knowledge while they enjoy their tea.

Kelsyn stalks into the room, and as he does so, those people who were in his way suddenly move off to the side, clearin ga path for him. Oh, Kelsyn has quite the reputation in these parts, and none of it is always on the good side of things; though occassionally there is mentin of some large story of how he saved a child's life once, or something along those lines; proving the hardened man does have a heart in there somewhere, and is really a softy deep down. Not giving Zannick a choice, he plopts down into a seat at the corner table.

Kelsyn sits down at Corner Table.

Zannick didn't expect a choice really. But, there's something a little comforting about a familiar face, even one attached to a crazy old gaidin like Kelsyn. Inexplicably, his spirits lift slightly as he slides into a chair at the same table. Probably anticipating really being fully back, which will really only fully be in swing once he has his chores and class schedule. A weird thing to look forward to, he knows.

You sit down at Corner Table.

Kelsyn fixes Zannick with his pale blue gaze, his eyes emotionless and almost like ice. "How was your time spent while you were away, boy?" Boy is a term the Gaidin uses often for any of the trainees, no matter their ranking or their age; unless that person earns Kelsyn's respect.

Zannick folds his fingers together and rests his elbows on the table's edge, smiling back in spite of the cold demeanor pointed at him. "I spent it travelling mostly, Gaidin. Keeping the family business afloat till Pa decided to come back to the land of the living from where ever he was floating." This is said casually, almost like a joke, and yet the most observant would note a hint of relief in the young man's voice. He's close to his family. "But I didn't forget to practice forms sir."

Zannick receives what few people ever get from Kelsyn, a nod of approval. "Good. It is good to see that you remained loyal to your family, and continued your practice while you were gone. Did you find it difficult to juggle both?" There is curiosity which now runs in his voice.

Zannick flashes a briefly broader smile that may be a hair on the wry side, "Yes sir, I'd be lying if I said it was easy to do. Most of my practicing was at night, though I found a fellow to spar with in Arafel on a couple of trips." In other words, Zannick thinks he may have progressed more in that time had he been at the tower and not riding all over creation in caravans trying to keep trading going for his family, but it can't be helped. And perhaps this explains the rather arafellin twist to Zannick's appearance these days, which certainly was not there before.

Kelsyn grunts a bit, considering Zannick. "You were what, an inductee at the time?" The Gaidin's expression states that he does not remember all too well events of those many years past.

"At the time I left, Gaidin?" Zannick shakes his head with a grin, "No sir, I left right after the tier test for Sworn." Others may not remember, but those memories are bright for Zan. He's held those memories ahead of himself as a promise and a vow to return, no matter how long it took, while he tended the chores duty bound him to. "It's been about two years, Gaidin." He prompts, not in a threatened or pushy fashion, merely a statement of fact.

Slowly, Kelsyn nods his head a touch. "It's coming back to me now." He smirks, blue eyes turning a slight greyish coloring. Around that time, Kelsyn had also been abducted by a male channeler, along with Micana. "There was much going on at that time. I believe Micana Sedai and I had returned from the Blight then."

Zannick roughs up his dark hair a bit, causing the bell to chime once or twice, which the boy hardly seems to notice. He scratches his temple and his brows furrow, "You and Micaena were sort of missing for a while weren't you?" He grins and shrugs.

The usually menacing Gaidin takes a slow, calculated moment to think over the response to that question. His pale blue eyes, which were calm before coming into the room, turn a bit stormy just now. "Yes." The answer is grunted, with a dark note held in his voice. Yet, he doesn't expand on what happened during that time. Rumors might suggest some rather odd things occured, aid from the otherworld perhaps, though those rumors could possibly be discounted easily enough.

To ask questions about that or not? Even Zan, friendly and fearless with people as he is has some sense of when not to pry. He remarks, "I thought I remembered that. Strange how fuzzy certain memories become so quickly." The boy's blue eyes are clear and sunny however, not reflective of fear or caution.

Grunting once more, Kelsyn shrugs his shoulders. "It was not a pleasant experience, particularly for Micana Sedai." He speaks formally of her, though it might be noted he never speaks of her or to her familiarly. Its as though the Gaidin keeps himself rough around the edges, never letting anyone get too close to him. Surely, he has his reasons for being such a gruff person, but even a man such as he would need some sort of companionship, would he not? "What did you learn, aside from forms from others, on your time away?"

"Well-ll..." Zannick strokes his chin with a grin, "All the travelling has put a few ideas in my head I guess. You know me Gaidin. I have to pick up and handle new things and check them out. I guess the business was useful in getting a bit more familiar with some of the other countries along the border and their people. People are people everywhere regardless of what they wear." He's not quite sure what sort of things the Gaidin is looking to hear really.

A brow quirks at Zannick as the Gaidin takes in the young man's appearance. He smirks and grunts further. "It seems their influence and culture has rubbed off on you." He notes the bell that finds itself at the end of Zannick's braid. "Just be certain not to wear that trinket when going on a stealth mission." Sound advice, and that's all he seems to mean it to be, for now. "Are you settling in well?"

Zannick laughs and flicks the bell with a finger making it sound with a soft ting. "Yeah, I guess it has. Got that from a friend in Arafel. Sort of a remember me trinket. I'll make sure it's tucked away when necessary." Zan lets his hands rest on the table and tilts his head. "It was rough the first couple of days, but its getting easier. Everyone I knew as a dedicated is either Gaidin now, and off somewhere else with their bonds, or simply left. I guess it's a bit weird starting from scratch is all." In spite of the fact that Zannick never SEEMS to let it bother him to be a total stranger, that statement there is telling.

Micana comes in from outside.

Ellorin comes in from outside.

Micana Vicayle stands average height at about 5'4" and is slender. Vivid red curly hair shimmers with golden highlights and tumbles around her shoulders. Slanted green eyes with thich lashes give her an exotic look. Her conplexion is pale and smooth, a hint of pink in her cheeks. A bow shaped mouth curves slightly giving the faint illusion of a smile even when one is not present. Dimples pop out when she truely smiles. If Micana's nose, lightly dusted with freckles, was a fraction bigger it would be be of the overly-large typical Saldaen size. Her waist seems to small for the rounded curves of her figure. Her hands are expressive and fingers are long and slim. Her movements are deft and efficient with an inate grace.

Micana speaks in a melodic tone that is almost without an accent. At times it is louder than conversational level usually used in the manner of the hard of hearing.

On the left ring finger is a thick gold band in the shape of a serpant biting its own tail. An ankle length green dress in a rich tone which nearly matches the green of Micana's eyes rustles around her ankles with every movement. The bell shaped skirt hangs in graceful folds. The Sleeves are shot with gold and brown threads that are the predominent color in her slippers and pouch hanging at her waist. A scarf of the same bold and brown hues modestly tucks into the low scooped neckline in the usual style.

Ellorin is a small, slight young woman, barely over five feet tall. She appears to be in her early twenties, but from the comparison between her youthful face and her steady, intelligent gaze, these appearances might be deceiving. Her hair is short, barely covering the tiny gold hoops that decorate her ears. Golden highlights show when the light catches her hair the right way, but otherwise it is a straight, even, brown. Her clear blue eyes look steadily out at the world, searching each new person and thing she sees for whatever knowledge may lie within. Her whole face changes when she smiles, lighting up with some inner fire. Her feet are covered in sturdy, sensible-looking black boots. The right one is a bit more scuffed than the left - the reason for which becomes apparent when she walks, dragging her right foot behind her in a limp.

She wears a dress of dark blue wool, simply cut, although still flattering in its color which makes her eyes seem bluer. The dress has long sleeves with just a touch of white lace at the narrow cuffs, and matching lace circles the jewel-neck collar. The full skirt falls in thick heavy folds nearly to the ground. A Great Serpent ring encircles the third finger of her right hand.

Zannick, a recently returned Sworn, sits at a table in the corner with Kelsyn Gaidin. There actually seems to be a conversation going on that consists of more than grunts.

Caught up in a quiet conversation of their own, the sound blending in with the ambient noise of the cafe, two Aes Sedai - Micana and Ellorin - step through the door. Ellorin pauses just inside the cafe, letting the door swing closed behind her, taking a moment to straighten her hair and skirts from the disorder the wind has caused.

Micana strides in the door, fresh fall air swirling in with her. Her head is held high and the sun streaming in the glass of the doorway behind her seems to set her hair ablaze. She turns toward Ellorin and gives a single brief wry laugh. "He's closer than I thought. Shall we offer to join the men or seek a table of our own?"

Ja'dea comes in from outside.

Ellorin follows the other Aes Sedai's gaze across the room, her head tilting forward to peer over towards the table. A soft answering laugh precedes her words. "Whichever you prefer," she replies. "It makes no difference to me, as long as the tea is still as good as I remember," she adds lightly.

Ja'dea walks through the door and stands there. She sniffs the air around the place.

Kelsyn grunts at Zannick, shrugging his shoulders. "I'm sure you'll adjust well enough, boy. You never struck me as a person who let change get you down. Sides, you've got something they don't." The Gaidin's ice blue eyes drill themselves into Zannick. "Life experience. All they have is their best years wasted, waiting around in the Tower until they get their life experience. Mind you, I don't mean wasted in a bad sense. Just that little opportunity comes their way to get their feet wet in things." Kelsyn is well aware that Micana is on her way to the cafe, the bond telling him as much, so its no surprise when he ears her voice. He turns his head toward the women coming into the room, his eyes taking in first MIcana, then Ellorin. When the door opens once more, his narrowed gaze falls on the young Domani woman who just entered.

Zannick nods, "Well I did get that, it's true." he agrees. Not many 16 year old boys go home to take over a merchant shipping business fully, without any guidance. Zan's gaze follows Kelsyn's as the gaidin turns his head, alighting on Micana and her companion and triggering a quick grin. He remarks softly over the table, "Looks like you've been found, Gaidin." and then leans back into the chair a bit, still smiling.

Ja'dea begins to walk over to the bar. Her golden eyes regarding the group a moment and then sits down on the stool learning her spear against the bar.

Micana moves forward as the door opens once more so not to block the passage into the interior. Miss an opportunity for tea with Kelsyn? Hummm, Of course not. Micana merely offered the opportunity for Ellorin to avoid conversations with him should she choose, after all, not all would seek his company the way Micana does. Many think the ward as odd as the warder at times. A softening of the mouth leads to a smile and Micana helps herself to a chair near her gaidin. "Light shine on you." The words include both men. She leaves Ellorin to obtain her own seat.

Ja'dea eyes turn to look upon the Aes Sedai and her lips purse in thought. She watches her curiously.

Following a step behind Micana, Ellorin moves out of the way of the newcomer, giving a faintly curious glance over her shoulder at the young woman before turning her attention back to the matter at hand. She crosses the room to the men's table, giving a smile to both Warder and stranger as she adds her greeting, "Good day." Another chair at the table slides out, and Ellorin slips into it.

"Light Shine on you Micana Sedai, it's nice to see you again." Zannick responds with a friendly smile as Kelsyn's bond joins them at the table. Not that she likely remembers him. Two years is a long time and he more or less knew OF Micana because she was Kelsyn's bond rather than directly being acquainted. "Good Day." He echoes with a nod to Ellorin. He scoots his chair a bit to the side to make more room for the women to sit with them.

Ja'dea looks at the Aes Sedai and then wrinkles her nose and turns back to the bar and waits for a barmaid.

"Indeed, it seems I have." Kelsyn grunts further, smirking a touch as he answers Zannick. He allows his features to settle into an emotionless mask before addressin Micana and Ellorin. "Good afternoon, Aes Sedai." He half bows from his seat, too lazy to get up at this particular moment, but remaining respectful all the same. Still, there's an air about him that suggests he's now more on edge than before, guarded, though not towards the women or the boy at his table, but toward everyone else within the room. Duty calls, with Micana so nearby.

Micana notices the faint change in her warder but takes it for granted, an expected thing. Her head tips and she studies the stranger a moment. "You do look vaguely familiar but I do admit to not being able to place you firmly in memory. Don't believe I saw much more than a few glimpses of you in passing from time to time." she then looks toward Ellorin "What might be your favoirte here, for tea." she lofts the conversational ball and splits it sending two comments in separate directions briefly, at least long enough to get a tea order out of the way.

"I was about to say the same thing..." murmurs Ellorin with a faint smile as she glances from Micana to the young stranger and back again. She edges her chair closer to the table, smoothing her skirt down as she adds, "And I've found that they do a very nice ginger tea here," taking up the second thread of conversation.

Zan has a knack for putting others at ease, and it is with that end in mind that he rises from his chair and offers a comfortable quick bow, the forward motion disturbing the bell on his braid into song for a moment as he does. He seems not to notice the bell. He's worn it for a while, and it's become mere background noise most of the time. "Zannick Mansetti. Sworn." He smiles at both, his glance then darting to Kelsyn as he reseats himself with a grin.

"He just returned." Kelsyn offers, but doesn't say much of anything else in turn, aside from grunting and looking more alert. He does, however, attempt to continue his conversation with Zannick, not encroaching upon Micana and Ellorin, as they've come to drink some tea. "What do you plan to do now that you are back? You mean to complete your training, that much I know, but do you have any other plans for the immediate future?" His eyes take in the other young girl that entered just behind Micana and Ellorin, assessing her for a possible threat.

A barmaid comes over and looks at Ja'dea and gasps at her and says, "You have been touched by the Dark One! Get out!"

Ja'dea a soft growl escapes Ja'dea's lips and says, 'I am not woman. I just newoman. I just need some ale. And a meat. Raw."

"There is that derby coming up, what next month? I was thinking of entering it with Aries." Zannick responds to Kelsyn's question, though something of the flap going on at the bar catches his ear, dragging his glance over there with it.

Micana says "ginger tea for me also." The quick glance of Micana focuses on whoever might happen to be speaking intently, focus narowed to take in the movements of lips and throat and expressions. Seems the partially deaf woman is not using any enhancement weaves in an area like this where the small ambiant sounds are amplified also. It might be logically surmised she hears little beyond the range of her table. The diversion of Zannick's glance draws her own to follow it toward the bar."

Ut oh. Someone's caused Kelsyn to literally snap his attention on them. That reaction right there is not a good one. "Pardon me a moment, Zannick." He addresses the trainee with his name, which only means Kelsyn holds some respect for the returned young man. Rising from his chair he walks over to the counter, well.... more like stalks. Leaning over it, he looks to the barmaid making a ruckus, and states in a very slow and deliberate manner. "Is there a problem here?"

"Get out! I dont serve Darkfriends. I will call the guards. Get out you beastly thing." The barmaid yells. "Guards...."

Ja'dea growls as she her angery eyes shoot at Kelsyn and with a snap of her hands her spear is in her hands and growls, 'I am no darkfriend woman."

As the gazes of the others at the table turn towards the bar, so does Ellorin's, and the small-talk reply to Micana dies unspoken as confusion and concern take over her expression. "Oh dear..." she murmurs, drawing back away from the disturbance as one hand rises to cover her mouth.

Kelsyn doesn't seem to be paying attetnion to Ja'dea. In fact, her eyes and manner seem not to bother the rather large, and dangerous looking man which leans against the counter, staring down the frightened barmaid. In fact, his pale blue eyes have turned dark and stormy as he regards the barmaid, showing an emotional undercurrent that could literally mean any reaction from the Gaidin.

Zannick's eyebrows both rise as the situation seems to escalate in a bat of an eyelash. He leans into the table a bit, both hands flat on it's surface. Light it's not good when Kelsyn gets that tone and look.

The barmaid looks at the Gaidin and says, "I dont serve evil women touched by the Dark One. I want her out!"

Rising from the side of the bar, the Gaidin stands his full height, towering over the barmaid. His chiseled features set tightly, and his jaw grinds together as he watches the woman who makes those accusations so openly. "You do realize, mistress that we've Gaidin with eyes such as hers, residing in the Tower. Does that mean you are now calling the Tower possesed of the Dark?" He takes matters from a completely different approach. Surely, Gaidin with eyes like Ja'dea's couldn't be evil, could they? "And those accusations are hefty without proof. I believe Tar Valon has a stiff penalty for libel." He reminds her of the laws of the city-state with which they dwell in. However, his words do nothing to calm his reactions or mannerisms; his pale eyes still swirling in a stormy manner, dark and dangerous.

Micana slides her chair back a little and speaks to Ellorin. "Perhaps it would be wise to invite the woman in question to have 'tea' with us. We can then guage why the barmaid is reacting the way she is and perhaps settle things down some, yes?"

Ja'dea sniffs the air around Kelsyn and says, "Your one of the Tower's." She hmmms as she seems to stare at the man her golden eyes regarding him.

Her voice pitched low enough so as not to be heard beyond the table, but clear enough to reach Micana's ears, Ellorin replies, "I think that would be a good idea..."

"But look at the way she is dressed. She isnt cilvilzed. And the Aes Sedai can control those others." She blushes and says, "I would never call the Tower a place of the Dark. Some of my best customers are.." She doesnt say antthning else right now.

There is a deep bellowing grunt which escapes Kelsyn. Controlled?! Certainly, this Gaidin is not, even if bonded. A darkened amusement comes to his eyes. "You have... unclear images of what life in the Tower is like, girl. Go about your work. You know nothing about what you speak. And if I so much as even hear you whispering that this girl is a darkfriend again, I'll take you over my knee and spank your bottom red, and give you a reason to cry that name out, rather than simply accus someone of being such for her manner of dress." As he speeks, his voice becomes a little deeper, with darker undertones. "Do. You. Understand?" Oh, and from the looks of the Gaidin, he would literally do as he says, and spank the barmaid for her transgressions.

Micana rises and srolls over toward the bar. She is careful to not interfer with Kelsyn yet stands close enough to him that the flare of her skirt brushes against his leg. To the young woman bristling with spear in hand she speaks. "perhaps you would prefer to pull a chair up at the table with us?" the words form a question but the manner in which they are spoken goes a level beyond that though narrowly avoids being an order, more of a strong suggestion.

"Yes sir." She curtseys and runs into the kitchen quickly.

Ja'dea takes a step back from the Aes Sedai and then leans on her spear regarding the two. She stares at them her golden eyes looking them up and down.

Zannick remains where he is for a moment, though he might jump in and try to calm Kelsyn down if necessary. He just hasn't decided if it is neccessary yet. It might not do any good actually, and its pretty gutsy to actually even consider such a thing, but Zannick likes Kelsyn. Friends are usually gutsier than people with no mutual respect. However as the barmaid is put in her place, Zannick relaxes a bit, not wound so tightly. He smiles at Ellorin apologetically. As if he could cause it to cease.

With the barmaid gone back to her work, Kelsyn then turns his attention to Ja'dea, now taking in her appearance completely for the first time. He grunts a greeting at her, grunting something he seems to do fairly well. "If she gives you any trouble, come see me. I am Kelsyn Gaidin of the White Tower." When Micana approaches, the Gaidin turns and regards her with a level look. He bows stiffly to her, "Aes Sedai," then turns to go back to his table, letting the Keeper deal with the girl.

Ja'dea doesnt say anything but looks at the Gaidin a moment and then looks at Micana and says, "I...I guess that would be ok."

Micana nods once and trails back to the table after the gaidin. She calls back over her shoulder toward the servers to get the orderig out of the way. "Ginger tea, hot and enought for our table." Absently an afterthought makes her ammend. "And whatever this one ordered." A few steps later and she is settling back into her seat.

Ja'dea follows behind the woman and walks over to the empty chair. She looks around at the people seated and then sits down gracefully and crosses her legs into an indian style postion laying her spear across her legs.

Striding back to his table, Kelsyn takes his seat across from Zannick once more, "Pardon the interruption. Now, where were we?" He picks up things, or attempts to, where they left off, as though there were no disturbance at all.

Zannick offers the latest arrival at the now nearly crowded table a comfortable smile and a non-disruptive "Light shine" before letting his attention be re-grabbed by the Gaidin. "Talking about immediate plans, I believe Gaidin. I was saying I thought I might enter the derby with Aries." Zannick picks right back up, allowing the ruckus to be forgotten.

Still seated at the table, Ellorin follows the entire exchange with her eyes, turning her sharp blue gaze from one side of the 'discussion' to the other, then looking up with a surprisingly mild expression to greet the unusually-dressed young woman. "Good day," she murmurs, as if meeting people like this were a common occurrence. Her composure is back in full force, and nothing more than a slight lift of her eyebrows at the young woman's posture indicates anything but calm disinterest.

Ja'dea looks at Ellorin and says sensing her feelings, "I get that reaction alot." She rubs her nose and goes quite again watching the people with interest of a wolf.

"Ah, yes. The Derby." The Gaidin grunts once more, casting a look over at Ja'dea as she goes to join Micana and Ellorin. His impression regarding the derby is unclear; though there seems to be an air of distaste about him. "Well, you are certainly welcome to enter the race... but be aware that its a dangerous venture. Men have died riding that." And likely, Kelsyn has even tried his hand at it at one time. "Not the typical races you find in Altara."

Micana briefly introduces people around. "Ellorin Sedai, I am Micana Sedai. my gaidin, Kelsyn, Sworn Zannick. And you are?"

"I am Ja'dea Shafin." She regards the Keeper a moment looking at her closely.

Zannick nods to Ja'dea again as he's introduced, smiling congenially and then grinning at Kelsyn. "I recall it was a bit rough last time I saw it." He agrees. "I'm sure there are faster horses than Aries, but a persistent rider could probably do pretty well for himself. And Aries is more suited to obstacles than out in the flat speed." Zannick just wants to have ridden it once really. Part of his explorative nature.

Ensygn comes in from outside.

The Gaidin grunts once more at Ja'dea, the sound not derivative, but simply a part of his nature; a greeting for him. He did, afterall, already introduce himself already to the woman. Still, he seems on edge and alert, despite his 'relaxed' appearance. Addressing Zannick's comment, he regards the young man quietly before answering. "I've seen Aries, I believe?" He asks, uncertain whether or not he's seen this particular horse. "Or at least one of your beasts. I recall the last was also more suited to obstacles when running a training session on riding." He gives a small shrug of his shoulder at that, simply commenting on what he saw, or thinks he remembers. "You ride well enough, that if you join it, I think you'll live.... unscarred is another thing, however."

Pleased to meet you," says Ellorin, still mild and polite, with a nod of her head and a small smile. The men's conversation goes unacknowledged except for a brief glance in their direction before she continues, "This is, I take it, your first time in Tar Valon?" A faint hint of humor colors the understated question.

Ja'dea looks at Ellorin and says, "My first time in a city in 5 years. My training has been extensive with my mentor and friends."

adds..."So I havent had much time to go into a city. Moonsong feels two-leggers are mules." She shrugs.

"The very same horse. The brown and white splotched one." Zannick nods to Kelsyn's comment, adding, "I'm surprised you remembered him." with a flash of a grin. Almost jesting. The conversation definitely seems to be splitting at the table to the men having one conversation, and the women a distinctly different and separate one. "Tell me, is it getting rougher each year? The last time I saw it a few were injured, but no one was killed?" Zannick enquires curiously, though Ja'dea's comment raises an eyebrow in her direction. Mules?

Ensygn comes into the cafe, rubbing at his arms from the cold. He looks around and smiles when a server comes up to him. He orders something in a low voice and then starts looking for a place to sit.

Micana arches one eyebrow and looks toward Ellorin. She leaves the brown sister to satisfy her curiosity while she, in her usual manner, glenas much by how she listens. As the tea arrives, she busies herself with pouring cups and setting them around. When the ale is set with it, she passes one mug to each of the en and leaves one down the end of the table where the women sit, more or less there for whoever might wish it to grab it.

Your eyes have fallen on a young woman. This woman stands at 5'10" tall with long blonde hair that falls down to her shoulders in a slight wave. As you look upon the girl's face you see that she has an exotic look to her. Her oval shaped face, high cheek bones, small nose, full lips, dimples when she smiles, and golden colored eyes. Her copper-colored skin and hourglass shape place her to be Arad Domani. Her body is well-toned and holds curves in all the right places. She can't be more then 23 or 24 years old. She is currently clad in a deer-skin shirt of light brown, with a dark brown leather vest over the shirt. The vest is plain with thick leather trimming. The girl bears around her waist a black leather belt with a simple dagger hanging off her left hip, and a number of leather pouches off her right one. She has on her legs a pair of very tight, deer skin leather pants that almost look like they were painted on. She wears on her feet a pair of soft brown, leather boots that travel up to her knees and are laced up tight. She is wearing around her shoulders a deer-skin leather cloak with a large hood. The cloak is trimmed in black rabbit's fur. She carries in her right hand a 6 foot spear. The spear is well-made from redwood and the finest silver.

Ellorin returns the Keeper's glance with a raised eyebrow of her own and a small tilt of her head, and reaches out to accept a teacup as she replies to Ja'dea, "Indeed," with another faint smile. "By training you refer to...weapons?" she asks, glancing at the spear.

Kelsyn casts a glance at the women, regarding Ellorin, Micana and Ja'dea briefly as he answers Zannick's question. "Last year, two died." He grunts, smirking a bit. "Sabotage. Their saddle girths were cut, and they snapped in the middle of the race, where a group of them were packed together." Keslyn relates that tale indifferently, though from his tone it still bugs him to no end. "They never did find who was responsible."

Ja'dea shrugs as she takes up a tea cup and looks at how Ellorin is holding hers and says, "That amongest other things." She sips it and hmmms softly.

Ensygn walks over to the table well populated and pitches his voice for the trainee and Gaidin. "Mind if I join you?"

Zannick raises a brow, and reaches for the ale Micana just passed to him, "Sabotage? Light that's pretty low. Someone must have felt the pair were a pretty good threat." He glances up as another more recently recogniseable voice sounds in his ear. "Light Shine Ensygn." His glance goes to Kelsyn however. He does not presume to speak for the Gaidin. Not a good idea when the man is known for blowing up unpredictably.

Micana sips the pungent tea and nods approvingly. this ginger tea has lots of flavor, not like some of the tes that are what men tend to call 'colored water'. "Oh?" the single spoken word invites more information to be shared in a polite tone of voice.

Ja'dea looks at Micana. She says with a soft voice, 'You hold a postion of a power. I can smell that. Dont you."

Micana s eyebrow, having returned to its smooth curve, raises slightly and she responds. "yes. I am Keeper of the tower though why would have such a scent I do not know. There is little to distinguish me from other Aes Sedai save I have a harder job than most.

Ja'dea says softly her socail skills lacking, "You would be surpised what I can tell you Aes Sedai Keeper."

Kelsyn listens to Zannick as he makes his comments, though takes a moment to grunt at Ensygn in greeting before continuing his conversation, "That or making certain they were the only ones that would win. The prize went to a fairly poor family, who had somehow managed to get their hands on a good horse." Kelsyn's darkened expression lightens at touch at mentioning this, though he, himself, remains vague on that topic. Addressing Ensygn once more, now answering his question, the Gaidin shrugs his shoulders, "Its up to Zannick." Odd, that he would let the Sworn choose whether or not he wished the company of the other Gaidin. His eyes rest on Ensygn, studying the new Gaidin intently.

Ensygn nods to Kelsyn, unaffected by the glare, or so it seems. He turns his eyes to Zannick and waits. He hopes the young man realizes the test was passed.

Good thing Kelsyn doesn't know about any testing, else the Gaidin would be pretty upset with people tampering with his students. "In any case," he grunts at Zannick, "I wish you luck in the race. Your horse, from what I remember, was fairly well trained, I think it could go over any obstacle put to it."

Micana nods politely to the other gaidin who awaits permission from the men to join them. She watches Ellorin leave to keep the appointment she mentioned earlier then looks toward the yellow-eyed woman. "then surprise me." Again brevity of words is used yet they remain polite in nature.

Ja'dea smiles to herself and says, "perhaps I will Aes Sedai. Perhaps I will." She sips her tea and looks at the men present her golden eyes considering them one by one.

Zannick motions to the chair so recently vacated by Ellorin Sedai, the only chair remaining at the table, with a casual grin, though he does look a bit mystified by Kelsyn's response, and leaving it to him. "Sure, go ahead. I don't mind Gaidin." He nods to Kelsyn and remarks, going back to the quality of his horse. "That he is. And while I was in Arafel, we both learned an extra thing or two. He should be just a bit better than he was when last you saw him. Perhaps you'd like to ride him and see?" A sign of trust perhaps, offering Kelsyn the use of his mount. Zannick sips at his ale.

Ensygn smiles and has a seat. He nods to both Micana, which is in fact a respectful bow from his position, and to Ja'dea which he flashes a warm smile to her. He turns to listen to Zannick and Kelsyn's discution, allowing the Aes Sedai to get her words in with the odd young woman.

Giving a small shake of his head, Kelsyn declines the offer to ride the young man's horse. "No, thank you. I trust your judgement, and likely you got to see a part of the Blight Border while you were out and about." He grunts about mentioning that place again. "At least from the distance, if not up close. I trust you had no run-ins with Trollocs and the like in your travels?" He only nods to Ensygn as he takes a seat, really more content to continue his conversation with his former, and returned student. He does regard Ellorin's back as she leaves, then casts another glance at Micana and Ja'dea simply to watch and see how things are progressing with the two.

Ja'dea says to Micana, "Many respect you Aes Sedai...but be careful. They fear you as well." She regards Ensygn a moment and nods and then looks back at the woman sipping her tea.

Ja'dea rubs her nose a moment as she looks at Ensygn again and then back into her tea cup.

That a stranger is offering to surprise Aes Sedai is an odd offer. Little manages to do such a thing, at least not a true deep burprise. They might be startled, or have a moment needed to assemble information before they settle down, but a true surprise is often rare. She nods to the comment from Ja'dea. "that I know. Not always easy to live with but it is part of who we are, learning to accept it. And you? what do you feel?"

Ja'dea says softly regarding Micana, 'What does it matter what I feel. I shall see who you truly are easy enough. As for me. I am a girl whose dreams were shatters by my current gifts and I have merelycome to see what the world does now. I havebeen finding out much since my return to the cities."

"One of the caravans passed within about 10 miles of the border I believe." Zannick answers, putting the mug of ale down before him and glancing over at Micana and the yellow-eyed girl. "We saw some of it from the crest of a hill at that distance. We didn't meet anything.. untoward though." He chuckles, shaking his head a bit, "No, the only Trollocs this young man has ever seen were the one's the Sedai conjured up in the Shadowlore class my first go around here." He tilts his head, glancing at Ensygn and then adding, "Though there was a report of an attack on a town slightly west of where we were trading in the first year."

Ensygn is simply listening in. He didn't ever really /believe/ in Trollocs until he came to the Tower.

Ja'dea sniffs the air and looks out the window and says, "I am sorry. Moonsong calls me. I must see what she needs." She stands and looks at the group and bows and says, "Until we meet again. I trust we will Micana Keeper Sedai."

"Light shine Ja'dea." Zannick raises a hand in a casual friendly wave. He may find her a bit odd, but he's still friendly. He scratches his head and watches the girl depart a moment.

Ja'dea turns and runs out at good speed.

Kelsyn Gaidin, perhaps has some of the most experience in the Tower dealing with some of the shadowspawn. No one really knows where he disappeared to years ago, but when stuck in the Blight with Micana, he showed a prowess and a deep understanding of how things worked; uncannily so. He nods his head to Zannick's words, turning his eyes briefly to Ensygn as he responds to the Sworn. "It is good to hear you didn't go running off to rush them, as some of the younger generation is aught to do." He grunts at that, smirking some more. "They could have had Fades, or even Draghkar with them."

Ensygn nods to Ja'dae himself. "Peace favor, Ja'dea." he says softly. "Remind me to introduce you to Gabriel..." he says softly to her back.

Micana shakes her head. "that young woman is bound for trouble, I think." the comment is spoken absently and almost in a warning manner to Kelsyn. She then directs her attention to the conversation in progress. "They exist and are worse than most ilusions one could summon of them. The smell and the heat, the way they move and the intentness in their eyes ....can only be conveyed by the 'real' tig I think.

Zannick shrugs and nods in agreement with Kelsyn, "Agreed. It would have been a foolish proposition to attempt to play one man, or even 20 man army. If they were so easy to head.." Zan's blue eyes widen a bit as Micana interjects her description of the vile creatures into the conversation and he grins curiously, "Are these Trollocs you describe? Or one of the other creatures?" Fascinating. He does wrinkle his nose though as if resmelling that awful smell that came with the illusion in class a couple years back. Light he'll never forget that smell.

Ensygn smiles at the server as his single glass of wine arrives. To bad Weste is not here to enjoy it with him, but she is too busy of late. He takes a sip and continues to listen in.

Micana says "Trollocks though some of the others...are unique in their own way." One hand grasps her cup of tea, the other reaches over to touch Kelsyn lightly, tigenting as memories surface behind her calm mask. She becomes aware of the pressure she is exerting and releases the touch, hand dropping back into her lap."

Grunting at Zannick, Kelsyn grows quiet when Micana picks up the conversation. However, when the conversation goes more indepth about the horros of the Blight, his features start to grow dark once more at the memories. Micana's touch, he simply tolerates at this particular moment. Were it any other person, they might receive a knee jerk sort of reaction, and perhaps lose a limb. How those two co-exist in a bond together is really... amazing. He does manage to nod his head at some of the things his bond-mate states, glowering to himself all the while.

And they were worried about Vortian? It's not hard for someone like Ensygn to tell just how close Kelsyn is to cracking. Though, he makes no indecation that he knows. He just sips his wine softly, still listening. In fact, if Kelsyn were not so near a breaking point of some form, he might have inqured further. But, there are books and the subject and other people know. Another sip of his wine.

Micana looks up at man beside her with a faint hint of apology. Her hand returns to perch on him though now more in the manner of offering comfort to both she and her warder. Change of subject time for both it would seem. "Kelsyn, you mentioned the derby here is much different from the Altarian races. In what way? I've heard a little about the races to the south, but not that much to know the differences.

Sensing, and seeing that the conversation's current topic is not being kind to the emotional state of Keeper and Gaidin, Zannick welcomes the diversion of topic that Micana presents. He nods in Micana's direction, indicating interest. The ale is retrieved and sipped at some more, his blue eyes bright and attentive.

Ensygn is also welcomed of the change. It surprises him how little he knows of the World. He just waits for Kelsyn to begin.

Kelsyn shrugs his shoulders, "They've tracks for such races, or use long stretches of road. I've seen one or two myself. They also use young boys to ride the horses, rather then full grown men." He grunts at the last, smirking a touch. "I bet those boys are probably more skilled than our own Gaidin."

Zannick laughs a little, "Small boys? More skilled than Gaidin? Do you mean just in equestrian skills?" Zan can't imagine small boys hauling swords around.

Kelsyn grunts again, shrugging his shoulders, "Who knows. If they are capable of riding horses like the wind, and staying aflight upon their back, surely they'll be able to achieve other things within their life as well. Handling such a beast at such a young age, when your body is heardly heavier than a manageable rock, is quite a task."

Micana listens quietly and nods as she mentally conpairs the differences. "I emember some of their horses are smaller and quicker than many found round here also. Do any of you know anything about a mistress Shaleene and some of her holdings? It is not really a change of topic. She sent me a mote about horses not long ago."

Zannick finishes off his ale as Micana speaks and then shakes his head as he sets the empty mug down. "I don't think I know who she is." he offers.

Grunting, Kelsyn adds his own comments, glancing at all of those around the table. "Never met her." He didn't even vote in the elections for Ambassador. He gives Ensygn an odd look, as the other Gaidin simply sits at their table, offering no conversation himself.

Ensygn notices the look and gives a smile. "I'm just listening for now, Kelsygn Gaidin. I'm afraid your outside my realm of experience. I know a great deal about Cariehien and running an Inn, and a bit about symbolism and philosphy. But vvery little about horse racing."

Micana nods once. "Then will seek others for information later. Thank you. common topics are sometimes difficult to find unless one resorts to 'gusiness' or 'training'.

At Ensygn's comment, Kelsyn turns a meaningful glance toward Zannick, as if to say 'See? I told you so.' He shrugs and grunts at Ensygn's words though. "Tower life is a sheltered life, until the strings are cut and you are sent out on your own."

Zannick grins a bit, though not with any smugness at Kelsyn's meaningful glance his direction. "I wonder why external assignments are not more a part of one's education." he muses softly, stroking his chin. "A richer set of experiences might benefit the students." Zan of course does not suggest in his manner that he feels the tower is gravely in error, but he is curious about that.

"That is no longer my concern." Kelsyn grunts grimly, shrugging again. "Morcath Gaidin and Owen Gaidin are the ones to address those questions to. I make it a point of taking those who are under me on border duty when I take my turn." Its not often, but Kelsyn does sometimes go to patrol some of the borders, though not before clearing things with Micana first.

Micana considers that a long moment then speaks. "Gaidin Owen is making arrangements for trainees to serve learning apprenticeships to gain some such experiences if that is what you mean. I had a bill or two cross my desk regarding that."

Ensygn sips at his wine. "That sounds like a good idea. I also tend to take the Trainees out and teach them what I know when I can. I'm working on a lesson now to help the student's understand how to deal with... shadier elements. In addition to the unarmed lessons I'm trying to work with."

Changing the topic of conversation again, Kelsyn fixes Zannick with his pale blue gaze, "Perhaps you and I can go hunting sometime, and test your skills in stealth. I'm sure they've greatly improved, and the jaunt in the wilderness might do you some good."

"Really? That does sound an excellent idea." Zan's expression is enthusiastic in agreement with that sort of change. He nods in Micana's direction. Okay, so some things have changed at the Tower since he was last here, and for the better. Keslyn's sudden change of topic catches him off guard though. "I'd be ecstatic for the chance to do that Gaidin." Zan's ordinarily comfortable friendly grin is wider, "Where would we go?"

Ensygn finishes off the wine and sets the glass down. He folds his hands on the table and listens once again. Well, he tried to enter into the conversation at any rate.

And Zannick would be curious about what Ensygn means by 'shady elements' had he not been so surprised by the suggestion that Kelsyn might take him on a hunt at some point. The question will probably come up in some later conversation.

Not really the social type, Kelsyn fails to see anyone being really left out of conversation. "Just the plains. There are deer and rabbit a plenty there." Not to mention fox and wolf, but the Gaidin leaves those alone. He then settles back in his chair a bit, growing quiet once more as he regards everyone seated.

Micana gives a faint sniff as 'ecstatic' is mentioned. She seems to be mulling something over in the back of her mind for a few moments then, in Aes Sedai manner, or the manner one uses when thinking about something on a deeper level and is somewhat distracted, she murmurs. "We need to talk about that at some time, Kelsyn, a side trip of a day or two toward the east or south east. Perhaps could hunt or practice along the way if he accompanied." To The other gaidin she murmurs "shady? As in related to some of the current incidents round the city?"

Ensygn nods. "Yes and no, Micana Sedai." he says. "More like... a way to interact with criminal elements. They won't go away, and the Tower can benifit if the Gaidin know /how/ to talk to them. I've looked, and there is no current lesson. Considering... what I know." he realizes that she may not know his past. "I think that such a lesson could be more than helpful and benificial."

Zannick leans an elbow on the table, watching as Micana notes a need to speak with Kelsyn before any plans with him to actually go hunting could be firmed up, and then his eyes turning on Ensygn as he elaborates on this lesson, flicking afterward back to the Keeper for her reaction to this. A quick darting glance at Kelsyn is accompanied by a crookedly sideways grin.

"Of course, Aes Sedai." That's it. That's all Kelsyn states, eyes already travelling to another portion of the room. He nods to Zannick as he catches the trainee's grin, though one might suspect he meant the 'outting' to be a guys only thing. Far be it for Kelsyn to deny the Keeper her presence on his trip, however.

If she wasn't playing at being 'Ms. calm and collected' on the surface and internally for the sake of both she and her gaidin's peace of mind, she might just have reacted more strongly to Ensygn's comment. "One could have mixed feelings about that. For some it might open up lines of communication but it could also e interpreted as 'accepting' criminal activity by others. It will take some very careful handling.

Kelsyn grunts and starts to rise, "If you'll excuse me, Micana Sedai, I have some errands to see to before the evening is upon us." He bows to her, but waits for her response.

Ensygn nods. "I know all to well what it includes, Micana Sedai. And believe me, I do not condone criminal action. But it will occur, and very little can be done to stop it. Come to think of it.... I don't know /any/ action that will keep such activities from occuring. However, the ability to talk to them and gain favors from them could do the Tower well. It can allow for more eyes and ears, keep a pulse on what people are saying and doing, and allow you to catch the criminals of the worst sorts. And it can help you find missing people and items." something Ensy knows all to well. "And part of the lesson would be discretion, Micana Sedai." he nods to Kelsyn as the older Gaidin goes to leave.

Zannick roughs up his hair with an idle hand and then smooths it back down, his eyes lifting as Kelsyn gets up from the table. "Light shine on you Kelsyn Gaidin. It was good to finally catch up with you again." Zannick's expression is respectful, but also.. well.. could this boy be a touch fond of Kelsyn, even though the man is half crazy? There's that flash of friendship in his grin. "I look forward to a lesson from you sometime soon." He adds, a gentle nudge perhaps.

Micana rises with Kelsyn. "If your tasks require you back at the tower, will walk back with you. I have spent all the time I can afford to away from my work." she mentions in explaination to the others. "the tea and conversations were enjoyable, Gaidin, young man."

Ensygn nods respectfully to the Keeper. "Peace favor, Micana Sedai, Kelsyn Gaidin." he says to them both, then stands as well. "I need to be getting back my own self." he says, shaking his head. "Weste Sedai will want my help soon."

Nodding his head to Ensygn, the Gaidin grunts as the other Gaidin starts to make his way out as well. As likely a farewell as the newer Gaidin will get. To Zannick, he studies the young man for a brief moment. "You say that now, Zannick. But I think in the two years you've been away, you've forgotten how hard I can push you."

Zannick arches an eyebrow as the 'party' spontaneously breaks up, and then slides out his chair. "Light Shine then, to all." He smiles, bends a quick bow, and turns a curious eye on Kelsyn at his comments. "I haven't. I need it, Gaidin." There is some intensity in that statement. Zannick means to catch up those lost two years. Its in his expression.