Three Blind Mice~another WoT tale

[sharyntyre]

This was mostly a solo piece, I am hoping you will be able to tell my scriblings from my Partner's.

This thread is the end of a several thread story arc featuring an Aes Sedai who was kidnapped and collared by a renegade. Featuring my lead character the former M'Hael Sharyntyre, Da'Alla Starsong a Sea Folk gleeman,( yesss I stole the name from SW) Mitote the Healer and Ihrie Sedai (victim) This piece is part of the last major story arc before our domain bit the dust.

Wheel of Time, names, cities etc are property of Robert Jordan. Reismen's Cove and characters are from our WoT RPG site...

THREE BLIND MICE by Randy and Amy.

PS. having a tiny bit of trouble with my Word doc. story coming shortly...with some help from the wonderful Nef, I the cyber retard learned how to fix the doc.

[sharyntyre]

He had not liked it, but having no real reason to not follow Kattianna’s advice, Sharyntyre found himself near Falme. Reisman’s Cove was a pit of outlaws, deserters, pirates, *****s, orphans and other general riffraff. It was all well and good to be told “you will meet two allies on Toman Head, you have a chance to address some of the Toh you owe Tar Valon” by a Dreamwalker. It was altogether; to be here wondering which of these cutthroats would prove to be allies. Dressed to fit in, his spears were carefully hidden along with his Asha’man armor a half day’s run from town, a camp he’d stayed in long enough to be able to Travel back to if he needed the equipment. The pair of knifes were large, if plain, with the appearance of heavy use. A sleeveless blue tunic showed off tight cords of muscle and wicked scars to match those running from hairline to jaw bone down the left side of his face. Loose flowing black pants tucked into stout boots.

Intense blue eyes under an unruly mop of sandy hair watched men of nearly every nation pass by going about their business. There were a surprising number of women among them as well, not counting *****s and serving wenches. Not enough to say a lot, but more than he would have expected. Then again, the number of wetlander women taking up arms had been steadily increasing since Tarmon’Gaidin, it stood to reason a number of them would turn outlaw as well. There had been as many female Forsaken and Dread lords both in the Age of Legends and Tarmon’Gaidin both.

Twice since walking into this ramshackle port, city men had attempted to rod him. The first had been an Illianer who would turn and ran when the stranger kicked the sword out of his hand. Sharyntyre walked three blocks chuckling about that. The second man had leaped out of a pile of rubbish in a tight alley knife flashing towards him, he wasn’t sure if the punch to the man’s throat had killed him or not. The trash dweller and collapsed like a puppet loosing it’s strings, Sharyntyre stepped over his prone body without checking, walking quickly away without looking back. After that, he stalked as if looking for someone to kill and the thieves seemed to melt away. Bolder than in most cities, but still thieves were usually cowards at heart the Aielman thought, show them danger they seek escape.

The smell of roasting meat reminded him he had not eaten since a few hours before sunrise, when he’d buried and Warded his equipment and began his race with the sun to the Cove. Glancing around he spied a grubby looking Inn, the other places close by were either *****houses or taverns, with a couple of weapons shops scattered between them. It seemed like every fifth business dealt with weapons. Making his way across the street and into the dimly light common room, the smell of roasting meat set his mouth to watering. The common room was about half full, one dice game between four men in the back, several men around two tables with the rest more or less scattered around in small groups. Hunter’s senses flared as he examined them for possible threats, it did not take long to dismiss the majority of them as no danger, even less to mark the few potential threats.

Sharyntyre made his way to the bar taking a seat two away from a pair of men that looked a cross between Tinkers and mercenaries. Which meant they were most likely pirates, he did not think smugglers would dress so flamboyantly, pimps might but they’d not be so heavily armed. A worn looking woman came and asked his pleasure tiredly not even reacting when a man passing her reached out pinching her backside. Growling low in his throat he shook his head reminding himself, he had a mission here, with no time to teach manners. He ordered a meal and ale then turned to watch as a group of three men began boisterously boasting about their skills with knives.

[sharyntyre]

Da’Alla pulled his bright red tunic of his head then glanced around for his boots. Mimi lay among the tangled sheets watching him with a bemused smile. He spotted the boots near the cold fire place going to pick them up the compact man sat at the foot of the bed and began tugging them on. “I should have been on the docks waiting not showing up two hours after the Vengeance Rising dropped anchor, Captain Iz’Sarya is not going to be happy” his voice had such a deep tone one could almost imagine the floor vibrating with each word. His was not a voice meant for singing, though he could carry a tune, he was trained to entertain and had done so for well over twenty years.

Buckling his knife belt hands that needed no guidance from sea green eyes began stashing his throwing knives here and there. Snatching his quarterstaff from the corner, he turned back the wench in bed “the room is paid for the rest of the week, I do not know if I’ll be back or not.” He paused letting his eyes roam freely over her half covered curves. “I am glad we met, be careful Mimi, and this is a rough city.” Not waiting for a response, he left the room making his way down stairs and out of the little Inn a few blocks away from the healers cave. There was much more to the odd little Seanchan man than anyone knew, of that Da’Alla was sure and trying to uncover. Shaking his head now was not the time for that though.

The walk through the ‘streets’ gave him time to put his report together as he made his way to the docks. Riesman had very firm grip on the town, of that there was little doubt. The former thief taker had a feeling every tenth person acted as eyes and ears for the man. His agent Nam seemed to know everything that went on in this little haven of scofflaws. In the weeks since the Vengeance had come and departed he’d met with five captains who expresses careful and conditional agreement to form a group headed by, but not commanded by his own captain. She had three such allies who worked out of the Fingers and something of an agreement with Riesman as well. Da’Alla wished he knew the details of that agreement, but then again knowing the woman he served, perhaps it was for the best he did not. As it was, he was in a constant struggle between his personal honor and ethics, and the fact that he was in service to someone who at the very least was a hardened criminal, a danger to society. He suspected she was a Darkfriend, but had no proof of such.

[sharyntyre]

On the docks he had no problem picking out his ship, the Vengeance stood tall and proud over the lesser ships at the Coves multi tiered peers and docks. It still felt a bit odd having a sense of pride in serving on a stolen vessel, as a Aethan Mire he should have been furious that the ship was in the hands of anyone other than his people. Perhaps there was a bit more lawlessness within him than he wanted to admit. As he approached along the highest of the docks, a small sense of unease began to fill him. There was a heavy double guard on the deck, all but two of the Sea Dogs and Veronyka, the Damane. He had been told they were going after the treasure of a lifetime, by the look of the guards they would found something worthy heavy protection. The thief catcher suppressed a shiver at the thought of the woman’s unbridled ambitions combined with enough coin to finance them.

As he walked up the plank Yohannas, the first mate planted him at the head of the ramp as if to bar his access to the ship. Da’Alla stopped before the man, being sure to keep his hand still and clear of any of visible knives he wore. Yohannas challenged him in a loud voice carrying the stench of the Blight on his breath “why are you to hours late gleeman, you serve our mistress poorly.” The sea dogs ignored the situation keeping eyes trained on the dock below the deck, and on the boats skittering across the small bay. They behaved as if they expected an attack. He was surprised to see every man on the deck armed for combat, not just the usual deck guard. The unease climbed a notch.

Da’Alla stood there eyeing the hulking brute for a moment just as he opened his mouth to reply Veronyka swayed across the deck. Her voice was honey, everything about the woman was beautiful, stunning even, though she had an air of hopeless desperation and fear to her. “The Gleeman has served as faithfully as any Yohannas and more productively than some. Stand aside for you betters or be moved.”

Yellow and green teeth were bared in something that might have been meant as a smile and the huge man bowed in a mockingly formal fashion. With a last look at Da’Alla promising to continue this later the First mate stalked across the deck to take up a place just in front of the stairs leading down to the officers cabins. There he planted himself with arms crossed as if daring someone to attempt to move him. Veronyka’s eyes followed the man dripping venom, then shaking her head she turned to face Da’Alla “we must talk” she nodded her head to the front of the ship.

Da’Alla followed smiling at the view, stunning! Whatever was going on could not take away the pleasure he felt when his eyes were on a beautiful woman. Some things about him had never changed. The Damane turned to face him, so that she could watch the deck and some of the docks while she spoke. Her honey-toned words chilled the air as she spelled out the exact nature of their ‘treasure’ and Iz’Sarya’s plan for the pregnant woman. The former thief catcher felt something within snap, and despite the effort to keep it hidden, something must have shown on his face.

[sharyntyre]

“Calm yourself” the collared woman hissed “I was right about you the first time I saw you” her eyes glanced off the side as Da’Alla felt the vibration of someone approaching. Veronyka laid her hand on his arm and smiled seductively “if you will lay claim to me I will treat you better than any woman ever has.” With her last word, she leaned in to begin kissing him deeply and passionately.

The sound of someone clearing his throat pulled her away, leaving Da’Alla a touch breathless. Their eyes locked and a silent promise was exchanged. Turning he found Yakov and Densworth standing barely a respectful distance away. Both looked ready to kill at the slight provocation. “I have missed you more than I had thought Veronyka” Da’Alla told the woman as he glanced between the Sea Dogs and the Damane. “I do not know if my service to the captain warrants the reward, but I shall ask. What can I do for you Yakov” he finished turning to face the Second Mate squarely.

The big Jenn Seanchan eyed the pair thoughtfully, suspiciously dark eyes attempting to bore into their faces. “What passes between you and the mistresses pet gleeman” he asked in rough tones as Densworth fondled his sword hilt.

Da’Alla shrugged and looked at Veronyka letting a smile and he hoped a gleam of possessiveness spread across his face. “We’ve discovered a deep affection for each other and I intend to ask for exclusive rights to Veronyka, do you wish to fight about.” His tone was mildly curious he was no match for either of them with a sword, in fact he had so little skill with the bloody things he did not even own one, nor practice with them. With fists, knives or the staff he had few equals among the crew.

Densworth sneered while Yakov just looked as if he did not believe a word of it but his words showed he would play along, for now. “What you see in this used up camp follower is your business, though I doubt the captain will deprive the whole crew just to show you a bit of favor. I will likely want to fight you if she does though. The woman is skilled.”

Veronyka drew herself up, exquisite chest swelling “Yohannas and his rotting teeth make a better bed mate than you ever have or will Yakov, you are not…” Whatever else she intended to say was cut off by the big man’s casual backhand. The woman staggered a step and might have fallen if Da’Alla did not catch her. Steadying her, he then planted himself firmly between the woman and the pair of Sea Dogs “strike her again without orders from the Captain and I will kill you.” His deep tones were quite and tense like a tightly bound spring, a fully drawn bow arrow zeroed in on target.

Densworth chuckled, a nasty sound worthy of his spirit “we’ll see about that gleeman, your wench has fallen from favor of late. But enough of that, you were to negotiate alliances with us for the captain. Report on your efforts so far.”

Da’Alla glanced between them then nodded slowly, glad to move the conversation away from what had passed between him and the Damane. It did not take long to fill them in and not much longer for them to give him another set of orders. Contact all interested captains inviting them to meet Captain Iz’Sarya at the Albatross Inn at sun down. The gleeman glanced up at the sun and shrugged, it would be tight, but he should manage that. Agreeing to their orders he asked for a moment more with Veronyka, which they gave him, reluctantly.

Da’Alla stood staring into her eyes, he reached out and pulled her into a hug “I do not know what is going to happen, be ready and watch your back.” He kissed her as fiercely as she had just kissed him then made his way back off the ship. Two blocks down the docks he noticed a pair of the crew clumsily following him. Growling in the back of his throat he tried to figure out what he could do, if anything as he made his way to the first of the Inns he was using as a contact point with other messengers and contacts….

[sharyntyre]

Five mugs of ale, three hours and four Inns later, Da’Alla still had the clumsy duo of crewmen from the Vengeance Rising following him around. He thought that maybe they were meant to be seen to keep him from noticing any other lurkers, though he did not spot anyone else from the ship as he made his way through the rough town. It was only two hours to sunset; he had another contact to make for Captain McVey yet to go. Fortunately, Sarrin made The Wild Winds Inn his home away from his ship. It was said captain Sarrin actually owned the place, Killian his brother ran the place, but half the rooms were always reserved for Sarrin and his officers. The man would show up eventually, with storm damage to his main mast being repaired, he could not leave the cove, unless he shipped with someone else.

The Gleeman turned roaming adventurer and part time pirate sipped his ale waiting with as much patients as he could muster. There was a scattering of sailors in bright colors, jewelry flashing in the decent but not great lighting, eating and doing some light drinking in preparation for another night of wild debauchery. At a far corner, table dice tumbled and choruses of cheers and curses came in response to the pips showing when the dice stopped. At a table near the bar, where the Aethan Mire man sat two large men were arm wrestling over the wager of ruby studded bracelet. Serving girls made their way around the room topping off mugs, taking orders for food and stronger drink, occasionally getting pinched and fondled. Killian appeared to refill Da’Alla’s mug “Gleeman, it is good to see you again. I beg you favor us with a song or two.”

Da’Alla groaned inside but flashed a smile as he blew the foam off the top of his mug. A gleeman, even semi retired had to be careful to stay in good graces with the Inn and Tavern keepers. Unless he had pressing business, the sea folk man rarely turned down a request to perform. “I’m likely to be shipping out soon, Vengeance has returned from the run north and the crew has missed my stories and songs. I will be happy to entertain here once more before I leave. Bring the dulcimer and summon your drummer girl.” Killian beamed and departed, returning in less time than it took to finish the mug of ale. The Innkeeper handed him the cased instrument with a grin “Karia will be here in a few minutes, thank you again Da’Alla.”

The gleeman accepted the thanks and the instrument and spent several minutes tuning the thing. Karia showed up and the pair moved to the opposite corner from the dice game. Gamblers sometimes got violent and the gleeman wanted some space between him and angry drunk losers. With there being only a few women, and those working the tables, the pair of musicians decided to skip dance numbers. Tapping out a simple beat the drummer girl sat on the floor next to Da’Alla in a chair. They sang three sea chanteys then two Tearan war songs, followed by a pair of nonsense songs. Sailors sang along out of tune and often off time, but they pitched coppers and silvers towards the musicians so Da’Alla did not mind so much. He tried to get away then but several men called for one more song, and a pair of gold crowns bounced across the floor from the gambling table, so he chose to humor them.

There is unrest in the forest
There is trouble with the trees
For the maples want more sunlight
And the oaks ignore their pleas

The trouble with the maples
(And they're quite convinced they're right)
They say the oaks are just too lofty
And they grab up all the light
But the oaks can't help their feelings
If they like the way they're made
And they wonder why the maples
Can't be happy in their shade

There is trouble in the forest
And the creatures all have fled
As the maples scream 'Oppression!'
And the oaks just shake their heads

So the maples formed a union
And demanded equal rights
'The oaks are just too greedy
We will make them give us light'
Now there's no more oak oppression
For they passed a noble law
And the trees are all kept equal
By hatchet, axe and saw.

As he finished the last verse, the door opened. A man he never thought to see again strolled into the common room as if he owned. Da’Alla distractedly finished the final few bars of music at the end of the song then just sat there a moment as the Aielman crossed to the bar ordering a drink. Shaking his head he wondered at the coincident the Sea Folk man quickly wiped the dulcimer down and replaced it in its protective case. As appropriate the girl knelt on the floor collecting their coin, Da’Alla waved the money away earning an ear-to-ear grin from the girl. Karia was used to getting a small share of the coin, though Da’Alla usually fed her and let her drink on his coin when they played together. He had just handed her a couple of week’s worth of coin.

Crossing the common room, he took a seat next to the Aielman who turned and flashed a wry grin “I could not believe my ears as I was passing this place. It has been far to long gleeman. You must be one of those I am to meet here” Sharyntyre waved the barkeeper over and ordered a pitcher of ale. Killian went to fill the order and intense blue eyes locked on the sea folk man. “There is something here I must do” his voice was low and he glanced around to be sure no one was close enough to over hear him. “My sister is a Dreamer” he leaned on the word hoping the gleeman would understand the significance in using it. “She said I would meet two allies here and right a wrong” Sharyntyre had to pause as the barkeeper came back with the pitcher of ale, tossing more than enough coin on the bar he told the man to keep the ale flowing, and bring a meal.

OOC: Lyrics belong to the great Canuk band Rush

[sharyntyre]

Da’Alla just barely managed to keep from reaming his ears with a finger. Sharyntyre’s sister was a Wiseone and a Dreamwalker, if he was hearing the man right. The gleeman knew a little of such, from his time studying weapons at the White Tower. He had no idea who this other ally of Sharyntyre’s was but he certainly knew a wrong that needed to be righted. “I have a piece of unfinished business I must conduct for my captain, meet me at the Ship Wreck in two hours. I do not know what your sister dreamed, but you are just the sort of man I need for something.”

The Aielman stared at him and Da’Alla shifted uncomfortably. There had been all sorts of rumors coming out Tar Valon and Almoth Plains five years ago. Having worked with the Aielman a few times on the island, he had had a hard time believing most of it. A visit two years ago to Almoth Plains had filled him in with some of the truth of it all. Those blue eyes had seen to much death, caused too much death, and held secrets. Sharyntyre shook his head breaking the soul-searching gaze “You know me well enough to not lead me chasing will-o-wisps” he paused and downed most of the mug of ale “the Ship Wreck in two hours. Perhaps you can show me the ship you sail on tonight.”

Da’Alla choked on the ale at the Aielman’s words. In the back of his mind, he saw them rescuing the Aes Sedai and the Damane while Captain McVey met the other captains. He had been assured repeatedly Aes Sedai could not use the One Power to read men’s minds, he wondered if Asha’man knew how to do so. “That may be possible, depending on the Captain’s mood,” the gleeman answered after catching his breath.

Killian appeared with the meal for Sharyntyre and the conversation drifted to gambling, women and fighting. Each shared a little of what they had been up to over the past five years. The Aielman was almost done with his food when a group of men came in and took over the middle of the common room. Da’Alla excused himself and approached the table. After one curious glance, Sharyntyre shrugged and returned his attention to the food. He finished off the meal, lingered over a last mug of ale waiting for the sea folk man to finish. He did not so Sharyntyre left and wondered around until it was time to meet Da’Alla. It took a few wrong turns and asking directions before he found the Tavern situated between levels of peers there was nothing but sea water under the plank flooring of the dark common room. Taking a seat towards the middle of the bar, Sharyntyre ordered ale and settled in to wait for the gleeman to appear.

Da’Alla lingered over his drink with Captain Sarrin and his officers not wanting to be seen leaving with Sharyntyre. Sarrin expected his ship to be fully repaired by the end of the week, and had a voyage already planned. Of course, details of the voyage were not given to Da’Alla. While he enjoyed a certain amount of popularity, he was also in service to one of the more violent pirate captains. No smuggler wanted to have the Vengeance Rising on the tail. The gleeman watched Sharyntyre leave, gave the man about ten minutes to leave the area then made his own departure.

[sharyntyre]

The sun was making it’s final dive into the sea, scattered clouds painted a hundred hues of red, orange and violet. Those cloud promised bad weather before sunrise, but to his eyes, it did not look like a big storm. The streets were crowded, as usual, thick with sailors, smugglers, pirates, *****s, pimps, thieves and dock rats. The gleeman turned away three *****s and two drug peddlers as he made his way to the peers. As usual, Vengeance stood well above the rest of the craft as big as he was, there were only two other ships docked to this particular peer. There was room for more, but most captains knew how jealously Iz’Sarya guarded her ship, they tended to give her and the ship as much space as they could without looking as if they feared her, of course.

The captain was holding court on the aft deck, the Damane dressed in a gray silk gown that set off her pale green eyes well, and left little to the imagination. Half a dozen silver and gold chains decorated her throat, charms and pendants nestled in her fine cleavage. A few bracelets and a single gold and pearl ring, along with matching gray slippers finished her clothing. Iz’Sarya dressed down, in flowing black britches under a loose long sleeved blue tunic. She wore a snug vest, a belt holding a long curved dagger on one side and long supple whip on the other, and knee high, boots with the tops turned down. The captain wore enough jewelry to make a noble woman drool with envy. All the Sea Dogs and several of the sailors Da’Alla knew to be somewhat trusted by the cold hearted captain stood in a loose circle around her.

The silver streaks at her temples caught and reflected the dieing sunlight as her head and cold gray eyes turned to watch him approach “Ahh Gleeman, I was being to think you had abandoned me” she waved a hand to take in the gathering “I am just finishing with the men, then I will have a few words with you.”

Hands on her hips she glared at them all, including Da’Alla. “Recent events have shown that while you are a loyal crew, you lack fighting skills. We have begun to address this, but I must have a few men who do not need to be taught. I offer you ten gold crowns reward for acceptable recruits, and a sever beating if you attempt to bring me a weakling. Tell any man, or woman interested I will pay double the normal signing bonus. Anyone interested is to appear here at sunrise. Go” she waved at the bustling town beyond the docks “go find me ten warriors and we will rule the seas” she finished raising her clenched fist. The fire of ambition burned in her gray eyes as they swept over the gathered crew. The Sea Dogs led the brief cheer, even Da’Alla roared once in agreement. He had to keep up appearances for a bit longer.

The crew left in an eager mob, he wondered what had happened during their voyage for her to see the need for more fighting men, and had a feeling he would not like her plans for them. It was a good thing he intended to leave her service soon. Those ambitious eyes turned back to him and he grinned at her.

"How many captains are willing to meet with me Da'Alla, in the long run your work is more important than theirs" she waved towards the town. Veronyka stayed nearby but a respectful distance and kept her eyes on the docks.

Da'Alla smiled brightly "I convinced seven captains to meet with you tonight, two others may show, but they were most reluctant. I think it helps that word has gone out that Reisman approves of your efforts."

The captain stared off into space for a few moments then nodded "not as many as I could wish, but more than I had hoped. Gather your things gleeman, for we sail before sunset tomorrow. I must go prepare for the meeting" she turned back to the Damane who had turned to face them "Veronyka be watchful tonight" she glanced out over the waters as the last bit of the sun dipped under the waves "there is trouble in the air this night.”...

[sharyntyre]

Da’Alla was careful to not look at Veronyka anymore than he normally did as he made his second departure from the ship that day. There were no tails this time, the crew were doing one of three things, guarding the ship, recruiting or securing supplies for the coming voyage back towards the Fingers. A select hand picked few was going to accompany Iz’Sarya when she met the other Captains. The gleeman made his way back across and down several levels of the docks until he found the Ship Wreck. Sea green eyes had no problem picking the Aielman out at the bar, despite the bustling business, there was a comparatively large open area around the man, at least his was the only seat with empty stools on each side of him. From the crowd in this place that amounted to a king’s respect. A cloud of menace had always hung around the wild half Aielman, this evening that cloud was rumbling and spitting lightening.

Approaching Da’Alla called out over the general noise of the tavern. “Shawn, I’m glad you made it” he took the stool on Sharyntyre’s left banging his fist on the bar to catch the tavern keeper’s attention “Bring me a bottle of Dumallian Soul Fire and two shot glasses.”

Casper, the albino barkeep stood before the pair with an air of impatience until Da’Alla dug out a handful of silver and tossed it on the bar. Pale white hands took most of the coin, glancing between the Athen Mire and Aielman. Blue eyes so pale they were almost clear seemed to study ‘Shawn’ a few more heartbeats without blinking. Slowly those ghostly eyes went to Da’Alla “this man is dangerous, Riesman is going to want to meet him, sooner rather than later.” Not waiting for a reply the albino turned away to retrieve the requested liquor.

Volcanic blue eyes turned to the gleeman “who is Riesman” Sharyntyre asked draining his mug. Da’Alla spent a few moments explaining the basic power structure of the town but was interrupted by Casper’s return. His words did nothing to calm the Aielman. Along with the bottle and shot glasses, he carried a full foaming mug of ale setting it before Sharyntyre. Da’Alla shook his head watching the bar keep move to take more orders “we better vanish, I’ll wager a purse of gold against stale bread crumbs he will send a message to Riesman, if he hasn’t already. We have too much to do tonight to be dealing with them. I will explain things at our next stop.”

Fiery blue eyes turned to the gleeman, unvoiced questions easy to see on his face. “This better be good gleeman, this town, these people rub me the wrong way.” Sharyntyre plucked the fresh mug from the bar blowing the foam off the top he took a deep drink. The feelings boiling inside were not to be quenched by consuming spirits, though the ale did fuzz the edges enough that he was still looking for the good side of the Cove. He was beginning to think Da’Alla might be the only honorable man in the area.

The gleeman’s answering smile held little humor though he nodded and even chuckled “oh I have some entertainment planned that is right up your alley. It puts me in mind of the Ribald Cain incident years ago up North” Da’Alla’s bone rattling deep voice was pitched low to keep down the chances of anyone over hearing them, but he was still being cautious with his words. He watched closely as it took several seconds for the Aielman to figure out what he was saying. If the man’s energy had been a thunderstorm before, it was Stormbringer’s wrath now.

He watched as Sharyntyre visibly battled the inner rage, helped a bit by the three long deep swallows he downed from the Dumallian liquor. The last mouth full seemed to go down wrong for he began coughing and sputtering, the gleeman slapped his back and pushed the mug of ale into his hands. Sharyntyre drained the mug, then wiped his mouth on his tunic, shaking his head he gave the bottle a glare then forced a grin onto his scared face. Speaking loudly he let his gaze sweep the crowd and clapped Da’Alla on the shoulder “Well then gleeman, you lead me to the best pleasure house in town and I’ll buy your girl for the night, Two even if you are up to that much fun.”


Several men within range of Sharyntyre’s voice laughed and called out their recommendations, of both houses and individual women within them. Da’Alla joined in rattling off the names of houses on the other side of town from where he intended to lead the former Asha’man. Standing they turned towards the door, Da’Alla pausing just long enough to scoop up his coin, and the bottle of liquor. They spent the next twenty minutes making a zigzagging course, often doubling back on their trail to throw off or at least spot anyone following. Twice they encountered crew from the Vengeance, both times Da’Alla claimed Sharyntyre was going to become part of the crew. One good look at the scared and angry Aielman and most seemed to accept his hiring as a given, Mocker even going so far as to say it would be interesting to sail with him. Da’Alla had thrown his head back laughing at that, they did not know even half of it.

Five minutes after that encounter Sharyntyre was surprised to find himself standing at the sandy opening to a cave right at the edge of town. The gleeman put a hand up to stop him from just making his way into the cave calling out “Hello Healer, I bring a friend and come to tell you an interesting tale.” Despite the situation, and what he hoped they could achieve this night, he was amused by the look of confusion on the Aielman’s face.

[sharyntyre]

Mitote shook his head as he cleaned up after tending his last patients. Several of the women of this town had caught the pox from men they shared a bed with repeatedly. It was depressing, both for the women and for the Healer. The illness was easily cured, a proper mixture of herbs and a session of acupuncture and they were back to being as healthy as they ever were. For him the problem was he knew they would be back in a week or two with the same problems, getting the men to come in with them was all but impossible. Few men were going to bring that sort of problem to him, not until it became so painful they did not have a choice in it. This whole town depressed the Imperial Seanchan to no end; it was a den of thieves and cutthroats, out-laws and worse. He still had not learned how he was serving the Light by being here, but all his meditations and inner searching told him he had a task to do in Reisman’s Cove.

Dozens of finger long slender needles of the purest gold were carefully laid out in a metal basket with hundreds of holes all the way around it. A large pot of water hung over the fire pit, just starting to boil. The small graceful man added a few pinches of various herbs to the water then lowered the basket into the boiling mix. Keeping the needles clean was most important they were doubled boiled like this before and after each use. Mitote had yet to give someone an infection and he was not about to start being lazy in his work now. While the needles were being cleaned, he grabbed the broom and swept the cave floor. By the time, he was done sweeping the three chambers he had to add another bucket of water to the pot. The basket of needles came out to hang beside the pot; again, he added the herbs to the water. While waiting for the pot to begin boiling again he set about preparing another pot, this one with vegetables, rice and goat meat.

Both pots were over the fire, the smell of dinner coiling and mixing with the sharper smell of the herbs used to clean the needles when he heard a familiar voice from outside his cave. A small smile played across the Seanchan’s rather plain face, the gleeman was always excellent company, an honorable man, though one with secrets Mitote thought.

He wore loose pants that stopped just short of the ankles over sandals with a matching mouse gray robe. The robe had long sleeves and hung to the knees. A black sash wrapped around his waist with the frayed ends dangling nears his right knee. The outfit was something close to those he had always worn, but adjusted somewhat to better fit the local customs. Lightly crossing the chamber he moved to the entrance of the cave, even before stepping into the twilight he could smell a storm approaching from the sea.

As his eyes found Da’Alla and his friend the healer decided maybe the storm stood right in front of him. He was more than surprised to see the man, here of all places, let alone in the company of the gleeman. The way they stood together told him they had known each other before tonight. None of the rogues stood so casually around each other as these to be, an unconscious admission of trust between them, one rarely witnessed in this place. Mitote had the feeling of being on the brink, as if standing at the very edge of a thousand span drop.

None of that showed on a face that appeared roughly thirty to forty years old, startlingly bright and sparkling blue eyes crinkled at the corners and a smile played over his face. “Gleeman, any friend of yours is welcome to my home, please come in both of you” he stepped out two paces as he spoke then bowed and waved his left hand at the cave “Supper is on, a simple soup I fear, but hearty and enough for three. Poor exchange for a good tale, perhaps we can go have a mug or two after dinner.”

Sharyntyre was shocked to see the Seanchan man. Having first appeared as an Ambassador from the Jenn, Mitote had quickly proven to be far from a simple Healer. The last Sharyntyre had heard of the man he’d been playing the same role on Almoth plains he always had, a wondering medicine man who reported to the government the conditions and attitudes of the people. Those reports were going to the Queen of Almoth and the Dragon Hall now, or should be; idly he wondered who asked the man to snoop around the Cove. Not that it was any of his business, of course, but having once served as M’Hael it was hard to not want to know the who, hows and whys of the situation.

Da’Alla nod as he spoke “your welcome warms my heart, as always Healer” the gleeman strolled into the cave the Aielman a couple of paces behind. Mitote followed the men going to fetch one of the bottles of wine he kept on hand for visitors while his guests took seats near the fire. The Seanchan joined them, serving them both full measures of wine, then pouring himself a half glass last. Taking a seat near them, but close enough to the fire he could reach over and stir the soup without getting up he grinned “You must have quite an interesting adventure story for me tonight, to your health gentlemen, and service to the Light.” The Seanchan toasted the company and took a polite drink as the others echoed his statement, Da’Alla mumbling the service to the Light part. Mitote had long felt the man was reluctant to embrace his honorable nature.

The Gleeman launched into his story beginning with his being captured by Iz’Sarya and her ship the Vengeance Rising. As always Da’Alla spun a tale that enchanted his audience, his words put them on the deck of the merchant’s vessel swarming with pirates. They smelled the blood, felt the fear of being tossed into shark-infested waters. He told all he knew of the pirate captain and the character of as much of the crew as he could comment on. Mitote mentioned right away having met Iz’Sarya when the Jenn still held sway over Katar. Sharyntyre’s few comments were mostly questions about the fighting skills of the crew. The tale ended with Da’Alla leaving the ship to meet the Aielman.

The intent look as they gazed at each other left it clear they were going to do something; all that remained was to plan the rescue. Mitote insisted they eat before discussing the plan. Sharyntyre refused the meal on the grounds it was unwise to eat before the Dance, while the gleeman happily took the Aielman’s share of the soup. Mitote and Da’Alla managed to carry something of a normal conversation over the simple fare while the Aielman sat filled with Saidin learning this chamber as best he could. They may have to make a hasty exit and he’d prefer to Travel over Skimming, either would get them where ever they decided to go, Traveling was just much quicker.

[sharyntyre]

Sharyntyre’s attention snapped instantly back to the two other men in the cave the moment their words touched on the coming mission. The planning lasted almost half an hour, seething with impatience to act; he still knew they were moving as quickly as they could. An ill planned mission would be worse than useless. Thunder sounded outside and the smell of rain came into the cave with the moist wind. The weather would drive some, many folk, to staying in doors; it would also make the archers on the deck of the Vengeance useless.

Mitote claimed the need of an additional thirty minutes or so to prepare himself for battle and Da’Alla spoke of arranging his affairs. He’d been commanded to prepare to leave the cove and word could get back he was not doing so if he did not visit the places he was known to haunt. The Aielman had to bite his tongue from saying he would just go alone and meet them back in this cave later. While supremely confident in his skill, he did not want to wager an Aes Sedai’s life on his being able to storm the ship and keep her from harm, alone. “I will go fetch my belongings as well, then” turning he opened a Skimming gate and left going to his campsite half a day away. The trip took mere minutes, with only two more to disarm the Wards and dig up his equipment. Five minutes later, he was incased in Power forged armor that had been custom crafted for him. As always handling, the armor brought bittersweet memories of the woman, his lover, who had mastered the last Talent of Aligning, the Matrix. Going back to Mitote’s cave went much faster as he knew the camp well enough to Travel from.

A vertical line of light snapped open in a corner of the cave sort of rotating open, Mitote looked up to see the vision of Siswai’aman he had held in memory. Even as the Gate snapped shut behind the former M’Hael Da’Alla called out as he entered the cave in the more mundane fashion dripping water from his foul weather cloak. The Seanchan glanced between the two men and gave a firm nod “Whatever happens tonight it is good to work with the two of you, let us go rescue this Aes Sedai, perhaps we can capture this pirate captain as well.”

Sharyntyre grimaced, justice was fine and well, but the woman was a renegade Channeler, a Sister of Truth, or had been, either way an avowed enemy of Tar Valon. Though no longer an Asha’man, by his own doings, he still felt compelled to serve as he had sworn to. If he spotted the woman, he doubted he would be able to stop himself from killing her.

Gerrick Tren stood a few houses away from the opening around the Healer’s cave in the pouring summer rain. He ignored the rain and muddy streets equally as he watched the cave and wondered how he should respond. Toram always wanted to know everything of import that went on, and a man channeling in the city was important, to be sure. On the other hand, Gerrick knew that Riesman had some sort of agreement with the Dragon Hall, having been trained by the Asha’man; he knew how well one of their agents would take interference. While fairly sure he could hold his own against any of them, there was rarely much profit in violent confrontations. Profit was Toram Reisman’s top priority…. There were rumors the Healer was a Wilder, mainly due to the remarkable speed his cures seemed to work. Tonight he would felt more than a little Saidin being used, twice relatively close together in time.

When three men exited the cave the watcher was left with little choice but to follow, at a safe distance, of course. His targets took a circular course winding back and forth across the city until they neared the docks. There was very little traffic on the rain soaked streets, making it easy to keep an eye on them, but more difficult to remain unseen. Thunder continued to crash in a broken rhythm and lightening flashed several times a minute providing fitful illumination. Three streets into the dock district the healer vanished from the group. Gerrick wanted to stop then, but duty demanded he found what the three were up to. This meant following the messenger and stranger, the Healer could be found again, while he knew captain Iz’Sarya was determined to sail tomorrow. Whatever the former gleeman was up to was most likely to happen this night.

The streets were all but deserted as the trio made their way, crisscrossing town a few times but always heading more or less towards the sea. Sharyntyre, covered in Power forged armor made as little noise as the pair of bare footed men in his company. Thunder and the continuing rain masking the small sounds of their feet splashing through the muddy streets. Twice the Aielman thought they were being followed, but could not see anyone behind them. The second time he glanced back Mitote caught the motion and flashed a tight lipped grin “oh yes, we are being followed. I will take care of that and guard our exit.”

Da’Alla nodded in agreement and the Seanchan man faded into the shadows leaving the gleeman and former Asha’man to continue on to the ship. There were a couple of scores of men along the piers, Reisman’s dock watch, sailors and rogues going about business to important to hold up for a little storm. Yakov and Densworth stood at the foot of the boarding ramp their foul weather cloaks protecting them from the elements. As Da’Alla and Sharyntyre approached they both tensed hands going to well worn sword hilts. The gleeman stepped forward, though careful to leave a clear path between the Aielman and the pair of guards.

[sharyntyre]

Densworth eyed the armored man suspiciously and cocked his head to the right slightly “this a recruit” he asked not waiting for an answer he went on “Captain said have them come at sunrise, she is not here to interview him right now anyway.” Neither of them moved from blocking the ramp, both still held their hilts. The armored man just stared through them as if they were no more than posts.

Da’Alla nodded as he answered the second mate. “Oh aye, you think I do not know she is meeting with other captains, for lights sake I arranged that.” He stepped forward half a pace making a show of looking around. “Shawn here has run into a bit of trouble with a couple of Reisman’s bashers, he is willing to split his signing bonus among those who’ll help keep him out of the Man’s reach.”

Yakov motioned the armored figure forward using a flash of lighting to get a decent look at the armor; something about this man tickled a memory. “Which army did you desert?” he asked. Reaching up with his sword hand, he rapped on the armored chest “caravan guards can rarely afford that, nor do they need it.”

Reactions honed for years took over as the man tapped Sharyntyre’s chest. Grabbing the man’s wrist, he pulled on the arm while pivoting in. The Aielman’s right elbow smashed into the man’s face shattering the nose, sending blood and teeth spraying over the pier. The huge Seanchan sailor let out a bellow and used his left arm to shove the armored man away. Da’Alla’s quarterstaff flashed as soon as the Aielman had begun to move crashing down on Densworth’s head before the man could finish drawing his sword. Rebounding off one target a small twist sent one end of the staff crashing into the side of Yakov’s head as he shoved Sharyntyre away. As Yakov went down the rest of the guards on board the Vengeance raised the alarm.

Sharyntyre had a bare moment to regret not wearing his crimson headband and veil as he drew a pair of Power forged spears from the harness on his back. Three steps carried him halfway up the boarding ramp to meet the three men charging down. The first fell to a low stab to the gut screaming as he fell until he splashed into the choppy waters. Sharyntyre ducked under a horizontal slash from a sword stabbing his spear deep into the man’s lead leg he gave the spear a savage twist pulling it out. The man’s backhanded blow hit with enough force to stagger Sharyntyre a step, but doing no damage. The shock of impact left the swordsman’s arm momentarily numb, that second cost him his life as a spear point found his throat. The Aielman felt another impact against the armor under his left arm, spinning around he watched as a knife blossomed in the man’s throat sending him gurgling over the side to join the other two guards. Two long strides and a leap later the Aielman was storming the deck of the pirate ship Da’Alla coming up just as the next of Sharyntyre’s opponents went down in a bloody heap.


Gerrick stood near the wall of the closest Inn to the Vengeance as the gleeman and stranger approached. He had heard that Iz’Sarya was seeking recruits, perhaps that was that was going on. In which case he would feel somewhat foolish for having wasted a few hours of his night on them. There was a short exchange, though because of the storm he could hear nothing of it. The armored stranger took a step forward and attacked. Reisman’s agent hesitated a moment in deciding to attack, loosing the chance to do anything. Thunder made him glance up just in time to see a form dropping from the low roof, he did not even have to time bring his hands up in defense before crumpling to the ground with a small needle sticking out from the side of his neck. Mitote reached down and removed the drugged needle then tugged the man into the narrow alley between the tavern and warehouse. It was not likely anyone had noticed his attack, those not running to join the fight at the ramp to the Vengeance were settling in to watch, and wager. Using Gerrick’s own knife he cut strips from the man’s coat to bind his hands and feet. Mitote moved to stand at the edge of the crowd gathered to watch the battle…

Eight men had been stationed on deck when the encounter came, six of those fully armed pirates were already down, some dead, some soon to be if they weren’t attended to by a skilled healer. The few men who’d stayed aboard ship instead of enjoying the many vices offered in the Cove came boiling out of the hold half dressed bearing a variety of swords, spears, a couple of axes and a lot of knives. The rain soaked deck of the ship became a storm of chaos, men shouting, cursing, bleeding and dieing. Two men should not have had a chance against a shipload of pirates; these were not average men though.

[sharyntyre]

Sharyntyre fought with a reckless abandon, the Power forged armor allowing him to be careless in defense. Twin Power forged spears struck like metallic serpents as cheap weapons shattered against the custom made Asha’man battle armor. Three paces away Da’Alla spun his quarterstaff in a blurring double helix, keeping two swords from coming near his skin. One of the sailors was bellowing for Veronyka, the Damane, Sharyntyre hoped she did not chose to betray them, but there was nothing to do until and if it happened.

The gleeman’s staff flashed up the metal shod tips crushing the throat of one of the swordsmen, Da’Alla moved putting the body between him and the other man. The pirate leaped over the body, rather than moving around it, in his attack, Da’Alla easily, side stepped the heavy over hand blow and hit the man on the knee, the crotch, wrist and right under the chin so quickly it seemed on continuous strike. “I’m going down for the women, hold these curs off” the gleeman turned and trotted towards the cabins under the raised aft deck.

The armored Aielman backed until he stood three paces before the cabin entrance. While supremely confident he could dance against the whole crew without serious injury, he had more than his own skin to consider. The pirates gathered in a large mob, four planted themselves at the foot of the boarding ramp and the rest spread out in a half circle and advanced on him weapons flashing in the lightening. Sharyntyre drew deeply on Saidin, light and power filling him, trying to crush his soul and shatter his bones. The battle with Saidin was as sweet as kissing Rowan to the wild-hearted Aielman. Stabbing one of the spears into the wet wooden deck in front of him he held up his empty left hand and channeled a large ball of Fire high into the air. At the same time, he used Air to amplify his voice “I am Siswai’aman, you are not my enemies, but we are taking the Aes Sedai from this ship. Leave and live, or die needlessly.”

Down on the docks many of the spectators fled, those that stayed moved back a block or so. On the deck about half the men lined against him stepped back glancing at each other and muttering curses. One of those standing his ground whipped a knife at the man Channeling before them. The flashing blade stopped halfway to the armored figure and reversed course and buried it self to the hilt in the man’s belly. A blood-curling scream broke from his lips as he crumbled to the deck. One of the men guarding the boarding ramp yelled over the rain and the screams of his dieing shipmate “Captain Iz’Sarya will kill any of us he don’t if she comes back and those two women are gone. Stand, at least fight and die like men” he waved his sword at them while his three companions silently bared the ramp from any and all.

Bravely said, the Aielman thought hurling the ball of Fire at the man. As the ball of flames flew towards the four men, it grew from the size of a man’s head to nearly the size of a horse. Screams broke from all sides and many pirates simply leaped over the side into the storm-churned bay. The four men at the ramp were swept off the side of the ship carrying them all the way across the pier to smash into the rigging of a ship docked there. More screams tore the night as the night watch on every ship in the harbor was suddenly alerted to serious trouble in the Cove.

Da’Alla threw open the small cabin Veronyka stayed in when not sharing the captain’s bed, but the room was empty. This meant she was in the captain’s cabin. Kicking that door open, he found the Damane sitting next to the bed a very pregnant woman lying there with a silvery leash around her throat. Anger boiled the man’s blood sea green eyes piercing “Veronyka get that collar off of her, Light woman, why did you not tell me she was in this condition” he cursed under his breath as the Damane fiddle with the collar. Trembling with impatience he spun back to face the door, he doubted anything short of the Dark One could pass the Aielman when he chose to stand his ground, but he did not want to get stabbed in the back for that faith either.

Ihrie's green eyes looked at the man in surprise but his words she did not falter. She was already making herself stand. It was not easy, she was so far into the pregnancy she could have gone into labour at any moment, especially now that there was so much excitement.

" I don't know who you are mystery man, but I assure you you've just made a friend, and I will repay you one day." Even so close to childbirth she was beautiful, she had the natural glow of a pregnant woman, combined with her usual radiance. It seemed to mask the purplish bruise on her face, matching the ones that littered her arms.

[sharyntyre]

Punishments. Ihrie would not break. Not in front of them, and that was what they wanted. The verbal threats, the terror of slapping her. She never gave up hope she would-be saved. She could always sense Sarrow and Arden nearing her, and she would not give up. The Captain never thought for once that she had Warders, it was the children that she sense d when she was delved.

Light what a surprise that had been, to find out she of all people was expecting. And to live there for months on this ship knowing full well the Captain had some sick sadistic plan for her children. Ihrie had never thought herself a mother.

The other Damane helped her out of the collar and Ihrie let her hand a moment rest on the other woman’s face and she smiled at her and kissed her cheek " You to will find sanctuary." In seconds Ihrie removed the silver necklace from Veronyka's neck in return.

" I am afraid I cannot even hold the source. " The green said waddling towards the man, even pregnant they had not changed her attire, leaving her in the revealing chain mail, though her breast and stomach swelled against it. She had kept herself in shape, and she was determined to be her petite self again when she woke up from the nightmare. She reached for a cloak, one of the captains and pulled it around herself snuggly, she didn't need anyone else to see her like this now." However with a sword, I might be able to help..." She said wincing as something within her kicked her ribs.

Da'Alla scowled, while he respected the fact that there were a number of quite deadly swordswomen in the world, he had met a few, and he could not like the idea of a pregnant woman in combat. Before he could tell the woman that they had an Asha'man on the deck to do the fighting the Damane spoke.

Veronyka's beautiful features twisted into that of a beast ready to kill. "I can channel just fine, and Iz'Sarya made sure I learned everything those poor Damane of the Jenn could do. I may not be as strong as you Aes Sedai, but I am stronger than the captain" the light in the blond woman's eyes said she hoped to see her tormentor on their way out.

A small shape moved in the door way, Da’Alla had to check his reactions to keep from braining the small healer who'd been watching their back trail "If you are collecting kisses for reward before we are clear you are a fool gleeman. Regimen’s men are circling the docks. Unless Siswai’aman wishes to again wade in a river of blood we are not leaving the same way we came."

Da'Alla cursed with heartfelt passion "we cannot try to sail this ship by ourselves, we'd not even make it out of the bay" he was cut off by Veronyka's own curse, just as vile as his had been "what sort of rescue is this."

Before anyone could answer a dark armored figure appeared in the door way, a short spear in each hand, and the blood of a handful of pirates splattered all over the Power forged armor of the former M’Hael. Blue eyes burned with volcanic intensity without even looking at the people in the room he turned to the only open space and channeled. A bright light appeared seemed to stretch vertically, then rotate open.

"Move it, I am no Stone Dog to stand against impossible odds, nor do I wish to burn this place to the ground" which he was more than capable of doing. Following his own advice, he leaped into the hole in the air to land on a six pace wide disk black and white, the ancient symbol of the Aes Sedai. Whenever he skimmed his chose this platform, it could be anything form a patch of grass, to a paving stone. Skimming from here to Mitote's cave would put them nearly on the other side of town, from there he could Travel. Directly to the island, he intended to take them all.

Ihrie's gleaming green eyes stared at the men before her, if anything the woman was rendered speechless. "Sha- Sharyntyre" She stammered loudly, Him, here? Saving her, this could not be happening, of all the people that would find her it would be him. He would see her like this. The embarrassment, the horror. He would never look at her the same way again she was sure of it. She lost her balance a moment and catching herself on a near table. It seemed at moment the unthinkable happened.


The pretty Domani's Water broke, and the thunderous pain began to erupt within her. " Oh by the light.... not now..." Tears welling up in her eyes as she fought to find the void, but her mind was a motion of panic, clutching her stomach knowing she had to get out of there. However, she was not the only one trying to escape, sweat beaded off the Domani’s face, as her body seemed full of hills, the cloth around her sticking to her, to much going on at once. Months ago she would have lived for this moment, but now she just felt so helpless. So Useless.

She was a weapon and yet there was not a thing she could do to defend herself.

Fighting through pain the gateway open for a skim she moved as fast as she could, this was happening she was getting rescued, not by her Warders, but by Strangers, and by someone who in truth as happy as she was to be rescued she wished it were not him. For some reason she felt shame in having him be the one. She thought she had two capable Warders, she had been wrong.

[sharyntyre]

Veronyka almost fainted when she heard the Seanchan man say Siswai'aman was part of the rescue party. Light the man had been death made flesh on Almoth Plains against the Jenn. She herself had suffered nightmares of facing his lighting strike ambushes; few of the Jenn survived facing the rabid Asha'man. Before she could frame a response the man himself, in the dreaded armor that could shrug off fireballs and lightening attacks appeared in the doorway. Just as in her nightmares, that darkly glistening armor heavily splattered with his victim’s blood.

The Aes Sedai's reaction was even more startling, and much more distressing. She obviously knew the man. The shock of rescue and seeing him enough to send her into labor. Admiration for the Aes Sedai, something she never expected to feel, filled her as the woman determinedly moved to follow the spear of the dragon the Damane moved quickly to help as did the small Seanchan man, the gleeman stood so he could watch them and the door.

Between them then got Ihrie onto the platform hanging in the middle of nothing. Veronyka knew nothing of Traveling, Da'Alla leaped through the hole and it started closing before his feet made contact with the black and white disk they stood on. There was a bare second feeling of movement, though nothing to show they moved it was all the same nothingness anywhere she looked. Another spot of light grew and turned, opening into what looked like one of the caves that dotted the hills around the Cove. The small Seanchan man immediately pulled, urging Ihrie through the opening.

"We have to let her lay down, she is going to have that baby soon, very soon, I am thinking" he spoke with a calm authority that helped Veronyka calm down some herself. She still could not believe she did not have the collar on her throat, or that she was helping an Aes Sedai. She had been given a dream; she would serve these people with her soul. "I believe you are right, you must be the local Healer everyone speaks so highly of" she'd wanted to meet the man, but her wants had never counted for much with Iz'Sarya.

The gleeman leaped out on their heels and Siswai’aman followed the Gate snapping shut as he stepped away. "We are going to the Tower, now. Mitote gather your important possessions" his eyes were on the pregnant woman. They'd last seen each other in Ebou Dar, nearly a year ago, how in the light had she ended up leashed on a pirate ship? It was beyond a mystery, but something for another time.

Mitote did not waste time arguing or asking questions, his part in tonight’s actions may or may not come to light, but it was well known he was a friend to the gleeman. He had no choice he had to leave. Luckily, his most prized possession, the dozens of golden needles he used in healing, was always in their case ready for use or travel. There was a well-stocked script with the herbs he most often used, glancing around he shrugged and turned to the Aielman "I am ready Siswai'aman."

The grim faced armored figure glanced around at the others. He had to admit Da'Alla had outstanding taste in women the former Damane was beautiful. Turning he once again wove a Gate, this time for traveling. "Da'Alla go first, you will be stepping out near the Yellows Hospital. She needs the attention of the yellows, no offence to your skills Mitote" Sharyntyre spoke in icy cold tones of command and watched as the party moved.

Ihrie said nothing, her Green eyes closed as she concentrated on what was happening. Saved... She was going home, granted she was going to have some issues to deal with when she arrived. And her life was now changed.

The pretty green's breathing was light, as she let herself try and ignore the pains that were shooting through her lower back, telling herself that she had felt worse, she was stronger then this.

"Light hope Elhaym is about..." Ihrie said finally as the pain had stopped for a time. Opening her eyes and looking at those around her. The Damane, Sharyntyre, Mitote, she had seen him once or twice when she was a Novice, but nothing more then to know who he was. And a mystery man.

She cast her gaze in the Aiel-man's direction a moment, not wanting to catch his gaze, but just to look at him. She was sure that he had no idea who it was that he was rescuing. This was something that made it a little easier for her.

Turning from him she looked down at herself, cloth wrapped around herself so no one would see what they made her wear. Large mid section, which as wondrous as it was to have something she helped create inside herself, there was the terror that she had never truly saw herself in this situation ever.

That scared her, more then she wanted to admit, she like children, but they were other peoples, she could just walk away from them. Now she would no longer have that option.

She winced slightly as more pain seemed to rush through her, but she tried hiding it as best as she could. She flooded her mind with other thoughts, like how beautiful the isle was going to be when she saw it once more, and how it was going to be heavenly to sleep in her own bed.

Remember...