The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: Cynadea on 26-08-2015, 02:13:50</h2>
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				Title: <strong>The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cynadea</strong> on <strong>26-08-2015, 02:13:50</strong>
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				<div align="center"><span style="font-size: 14pt;" class="bbc_size"><span style="font-family: times new roman;" class="bbc_font">Blue Ajah Hall</span></span></div><hr>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sindra</strong> on <strong>22-09-2015, 22:47:58</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/50/BlueAjah.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Aleana Schiller (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=234819.msg11575159#msg11575159)<br><strong>Position:</strong> Keeper of the Chronicles, Blue Ajah <br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> None (As yet!)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Ardan | Closed<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening | Saven 5 | 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana’s Room <br><strong>Warning:</strong><br><hr>(Continued from the White Tower Basement (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=235756.msg11661458#msg11661458))<br><br>Leaving the cell with Ardan, Aleana nodded as the Gaidin locked the door.&nbsp; With a quick movement, she added a weave to the door, tying it off afterward.&nbsp; Though it wouldn’t do anything to keep others out of the cell, it would make it clear if someone else went into the room.&nbsp; Even if they copied her weave exactly, she would know if it wasn’t her own work.&nbsp; Though she didn’t suspect that any potential Black Ajah would risk themselves for a darkfriend that got captured, she couldn’t be too careful.&nbsp; The dangers at the Tower, the growing darkness within the glittering white walls, was a situation that needed careful handling.&nbsp; If she acted too boldly and went on a witch hunt, it would provide their enemies a chance to act and disappear for a time, hiding their actions.&nbsp; If she did nothing, the Tower would continue to be at risk and every woman that stepped foot within it to train would be in danger and the ranks of their enemies would swell.&nbsp; No, it was something that needed to be handled carefully and, preferably, quietly.<br><br>Walking up the stairs of the Tower in the company of Ardan, Aleana said little as they made their way up to the level of the Blue Ajah Hall.&nbsp; Though there was a great deal she wished to discuss with him, it was best to be private.&nbsp; Heels clicking lightly on the floors of the Tower, Aleana sneaked a glance at the man walking next to her.&nbsp; While her silence was for privacy, at least a little, she had to acknowledge the butterflies beginning to dance in her stomach.&nbsp; It had been a long time that Aleana felt nervous but the prospect of asking Ardan to become her Gaidin, to bond to her for the rest of their lives, brought the feelings back in a rush.&nbsp; It wasn’t the same as when she grew concerned about Black Ajah, darkfriends and other threats to the world.&nbsp; Instead, it was much more personal.&nbsp; <br><br>Pausing at the door to her room, Aleana swallowed hard, the first breach in her composure since they began the interrogation.&nbsp; Flicking another glance at the skilled warrior by her side, she opened it and gestured for him to enter her room silently.&nbsp; A gentle scent of tea rose subtly wafted from the room.&nbsp; Going inside herself, she called on Saidin, lighting several candles for them to see, offering illumination to the once dark room.&nbsp; The immaculately kept room had a large wooden bed near the back of the room, mattress covered by a plush white comforter and accented with decorative blue pillows and a matching throw at the end of the bed.&nbsp; A few feet from the bed there was a small sitting area.&nbsp; Two white chairs sat, backs of the chairs facing the bed, each with a small blue pillow.&nbsp; A soft rug in whites and blues sat under the chairs and wooden table.&nbsp; Scents of rare visitors lingered in the room, for those that could smell such things but even her own scent was lingering rather than strong, suggesting a lack of time spent in the bedroom.<br><br>“Please make yourself comfortable, Ardan.”&nbsp; Aleana offered, gesturing toward the chairs, her voice lacking the stern undertones she saved for her duties as Keeper of the Chronicles.&nbsp; Striding toward the second chair, she settled her hands over the back of it, still a bit too wound to sit.&nbsp; “First of all, I want to thank you for your bravery and diligence.&nbsp; If it had not been for those things, that darkfriend might have slipped through the Tower halls and accomplished his task.”&nbsp; Aleana said, her hands tightening on the back of the plush chair.&nbsp; Though she understood that Ardan had caught the man from the very beginning, she was also aware that the Light had given them luck in the person that was on duty.&nbsp; Inside the Tower, it was rare enough for something to happen that the diligence of many of the guardians could be questioned.&nbsp; Taking a deep, steadying breath, she shook her head, pushing those thoughts away.&nbsp; It had turned out for the best and getting lost in what could have been was self-defeating.&nbsp; Plus there was a bit of silver lining in all of it.&nbsp; One that she would happily discuss in a moment.&nbsp; However, one question still remained, the one question she hadn’t gotten an answer to in the hallway.&nbsp; “How did you know?”&nbsp; She didn’t question his knowledge itself but was curious how he managed to spot a darkfriend.&nbsp; As far as she knew, there were no distinguishing features.&nbsp; 
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				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cynadea</strong> on <strong>23-09-2015, 07:22:33</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/4/42/Gaidin.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Ardan Taliesin<br><strong>Position:</strong> Gaidin<br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> Aleana Sedai (Soon)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening, Saven 5th, 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Warning:</strong> N/a<br><hr><div style="text-align: justify;">Ardan had an odd feeling of deja vu when&nbsp; he followed Aleana up the tower to the Blue Ajah hall. He felt like a child who had been caught with a hand elbow-deep in a cookie jar and now had some explaining to do. He didn't expect her to punish him, or scold him or anything. It was the explaining, justifying that he dreaded to do and her reaction to it. At least she wasn't a Red, she wouldn't quickly jump to the conclusion that it had something to do with channeling. By the Light, he hoped it had nothing to do with channeling!<br><br>As they walked silently, he tried to think of ways to bring it up to her, to explain it to her. There weren't sixty different ways to go about it, but he wanted to pick the right one regardless. Outwardly, Ardan appeared to be his usual self; alert with his deep brown eyes constantly scanning his surroundings even up here and calm. He was anything but calm inside and he knew it. What was the worst that could happen? He become some subject of study for a brown or a yellow? Give him to the Reds to be tested for channeling, tried and gentled? This had nothing to do with the One Power, he repeated to himself. He had seen what the One Power would do and this had nothing in common with it. Being put out of the Tower, or labeled a dark friend could happen and would sadden him much. What if he was some kind of hound for the… no. He was no dark friend.<br><br>Ardan clenched his teeth to control himself, something that a twitch of a muscle at his jaw betrayed, but not much more. He entered her quarters, murmuring thanks as he did so and he stood, near the door, his hands around his back; one hand holding the wrist of the other and he forced himself to ease the tension in his shoulder, neck and jaw. Aleana had never given him a reason to think ill of her; if anything, she had always done the opposite. He trusted her and as the thoughts came to him, the tension drained from him.<br><br>"I will remain standing, Aleana Sedai." Ardan said, a little too quickly and when he caught himself, he added, "Unless it causes you discomfort." He had no intention to be a literal pain in the neck to her. At her words of gratitude, Ardan's first reflex was to dismiss them. He had done his job, he had sworn to protect the men and women of the Tower and he would uphold that oath until he was released from it or died. He simply inclined his head to acknowledge the words. Then came the words that he dreaded to hear. How did he know…<br><br>"I don't know how I do it, or what makes me different." Ardan started and it was the honest truth. Truth would be the best path to take here, he was sure of it. Of all the scenarios and explanations he had thought of, truth seemed the most efficient and logical. "I can track people by scent once I've encountered them or something of theirs that carries their scent. Some people, and sometimes places, smell foul. I've learned that when it happens, it's because there has been violence in their vicinity.&nbsp; When he perused the foyer waiting for someone to call him to his meeting, I picked up on his scent.&nbsp; The clothes on his back are not his, they belong to someone else. He stinks of death and violence, and by the end of the interview he smelled of fear and despair." Ardan said, talking much more than he intended to but he was nervous and that made him long-winded.<br></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sindra</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 02:49:02</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/50/BlueAjah.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Aleana Schiller (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=234819.msg11575159#msg11575159)<br><strong>Position:</strong> Keeper of the Chronicles, Blue Ajah <br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> None (As yet!)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Ardan | Closed<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening | Saven 5 | 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana’s Room <br><strong>Warning:</strong><br><hr>“However you’re comfortable.”&nbsp; Aleana said and waved it away with a hand even as she began to suspect he was as distracted as she was and, perhaps, nervous.&nbsp; Did he know what she hoped to accomplish tonight and what she wished to ask him?&nbsp; Was he opposed to such a thing or perhaps hoping for it?&nbsp; No answers were going to appear out of thin air and, for the moment, she forced herself to focus on the important business at hand.&nbsp; Running a slightly damp hand down her dress before returning it to the back to the chair, she turned toward him as he spoke, her brows creeping up slowly.<br><br>Straightening as he explained how he had known, she took a deep breath and released it slowly.&nbsp; “You can smell that sort of thing…”&nbsp; She repeated what he told her, surprised but not disbelieving.&nbsp; “How?”&nbsp; She wondered aloud, though she didn’t quite realize she had actually spoken and aware that he already answered that question.&nbsp; He didn’t know how he did it.&nbsp; Hands falling to her sides, she stiffened as her mind raced over the potentials.&nbsp; Though she doubted that Ardan was a channeler as he had been at the Tower for quite some time, there was the slight potential.&nbsp; Even though the Red Ajah didn’t often pay attention to the Valdar, she suspected that he would have accidently channeled at some point during his stay.&nbsp; Likely, as with most wilders, more than once during stressful times.&nbsp; Training at the White Tower was indeed stressful and he would have, most likely, given himself away if he were a male channeler.&nbsp; But, there was a sliver of doubt.&nbsp; A sliver caused by her own knowledge of the failings of the Tower.&nbsp; Darkfriends entering the Tower, Black Ajah likely in their midst, and a great deal of information they lacked were clear signs of it.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br><br>“When you… smell these kind of things…”&nbsp; She trailed off, beginning to pace a bit behind the chairs.&nbsp; If she had thought she had been tense before, she was doubly so now.&nbsp; “Do you feel anything?&nbsp; Perhaps a feeling of pleasure?”&nbsp; She asked carefully.&nbsp; When women touched the source, it was a very pleasant sensation and, though she wasn’t certain, she suspected men would feel the same.&nbsp; It was such a good sensation that many became addicted to it and, without the training of the Tower, could easily channel enough to burn themselves out.&nbsp; <br><br>Another thought occurred to her and she paused in her pacing, her face paling.&nbsp; “I must ask, and this is important, have you had any strange haziness in your memories?&nbsp; Any moments in which you were in the middle of doing something and then you couldn’t quite recall why?”&nbsp; She asked, her tan eyes worried as she gazed at him.&nbsp; If he were being used or his memories altered to fit into the Tower, there were usually signs.&nbsp; She didn’t suspect that he was a darkfriend himself but she was worried that something might have been done to him.&nbsp; <br><br>Shaking her head, she sighed, her tan eyes meeting his.&nbsp; “Oh, Ardan, whatever is going on, we’ll find out what it is.”&nbsp; She promised, her voice gentle, concern writ in her face.&nbsp; Stepping closer to him, she moved to touch his upper arm gently, to lay her hand on him.&nbsp; “Thank you for telling me.”&nbsp; She added, her lips curving into a humorless smile, the worry too great to offer anything more bright.&nbsp; She understood the risk he took in informing her and the Tower did have a reputation for poking and prodding those that were different.&nbsp; His trust in her, his faith that she wouldn’t do as such to him was touching and only reaffirmed her earlier decision.&nbsp; Plus, if his gifts weren't given by the Dark One or any of his creatures and Ardan wasn't a channeler, his abilities would be incredibly useful.&nbsp; Just one more thing that made him such a wonderful prospect for a Gaidin.
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				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cynadea</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 04:25:02</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/4/42/Gaidin.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Ardan Taliesin<br><strong>Position:</strong> Gaidin<br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> Aleana Sedai (Soon)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening, Saven 5th, 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Warning:</strong> N/a<br><hr><div style="text-align: justify;">Ardan shook his head no. "This is not how it works, Aleana Sedai. I smell things all the time, sometimes smells wake me in my sleep if a particularly pungent trainee is on his way to a bath, or if Aes Sedai comes in the barracks and she is using floral soap or cream for her skin. The infirmary is scrubbed clean, but whenever I pass by it, it still smell of blood and sometimes some of the violence that led to the blood still lingers behind. I can smell the sickness or the infection…"<br><br>Uncomfortable towering over a woman he so deeply respected, Ardan took the seat near her to try and answer to her question. "I am perfectly normal, Aleana Sedai. My head is clear, my memory never lapsed. I've been like this for as long as I can remember. I could tell when my mother tried to surprise me baking blueberry pie, because I could smell it from three houses over even if my friends couldn't. It's just a very sharp nose." It was quite obvious that Ardan had accepted his condition. What made him nervous was whether of not the Tower would. If <em>she</em> would.<br><br>"I've kept my peace for so long because I don't want it mistaken for&nbsp; something else. There's been nothing odd happening with me other than a very sharp nose that I've learned to use for the Queen's guards, and now for the Tower. How do you think I knew to find your group when we first met? How I knew there were some among you that were more wounded than appearances made them be? The violence and the blood left a trail for me to sniff and follow." Ardan grew calmer as it became obvious that she had no intention to bind him and throw him at the reds like a bloody carcass at a pack of hungry wolves.<br><br>"I am not worried by what I am, Aleana Sedai. I am worried by how people will react when they learn. Some people do not react very well to what is different, and I am in one of the places that has both the best and the worst reputation on how to deal with such difference. Believe me, if you were a Brown, your questions would have been met with silence. A red would have my cooperation just so I can prove that she has no business to do with me. I've learned a lot of what I am not since coming here. I can't channel, I am not a wolfbrother, if I've been manipulated by the dark forces of this world, it was done while I was a child and I have had no clues of it being the source."&nbsp; Ardan had simply accepted the difference like one would accept big feet, or towering a head over the crowd.<br><br>"What is it that bothers you, if I may ask? I have seen you worried and concerned before. You hide it well, but I pay attention. What is it now? Is your life in further danger?" He was not so self-centered to think that it was him that was the source of her worry. He leaned forward to put his elbow on the tip of his knees and held one fist in the other hand, but his gaze was fixed on her unwavering. If there was one thing that Ardan had learned since becoming Valdar for the White Tower, it was that Aes Sedai were women, no matter how hardened or willful, they remained women.<br><br></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sindra</strong> on <strong>25-09-2015, 06:25:21</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/50/BlueAjah.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Aleana Schiller (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=234819.msg11575159#msg11575159)<br><strong>Position:</strong> Keeper of the Chronicles, Blue Ajah <br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> None (As yet!)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Ardan | Closed<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening | Saven 5 | 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana’s Room <br><strong>Warning:</strong><br><hr>Listening carefully as Ardan explained further, Aleana began to mentally relax and finally sat down in the second chair herself.&nbsp; There didn’t seem to be more to it than an incredibly honed sense of smell and, further, he seemed to understand immediately why she asked the questions she had.&nbsp; Another excellent example of his skill and knowledge.&nbsp; He understood the Tower, the various Ajahs and the subtle nuances of their concerns.&nbsp; He knew when to remain silent and when to speak.&nbsp; He also knew when to act.&nbsp; He had waited until the darkfriend had reached his destination for information and that had been brilliant.&nbsp; Even if another had been capable of scenting the same things Ardan did, how many would understand that it was best to wait?&nbsp; How many would have stopped the darkfriend before any information had been gathered?&nbsp; By waiting, Ardan had allowed them to learn a good deal more.<br><br>Though it was nearly imperceptible, Aleana’s face darkened a bit at as he spoke of their meeting.&nbsp; It had been a rather dark time for Aleana as she had been one of those injured far more than she had let on.&nbsp; As her strengths in the One Power leaned closer to the strength of male channelers, he had seen her as a particular threat and, unfortunately, had her bound for a time.&nbsp; As she had done with many other things, Aleana forced that to the back of her mind and remained focused on the present, on Ardan, her tan eyes never straying from him.&nbsp; He had been there after Raine had gentled the False Dragon and they were trying to return to the Tower without the escort of Warders that had accompanied the group.&nbsp; It was Ardan that had escorted them back.&nbsp; <br><br>Stiffening ever so slightly when he asked his question of her, she remained silent for a second, still watching him.&nbsp; “Thank you for sharing with me and answering the questions.”&nbsp; She said, turning away from the question for a moment.&nbsp; Pausing again, she laid her hands on her lap, her fingers entwining.&nbsp; “I have to admit, that’s an incredibly useful skill.”&nbsp; She mused and shook her head.&nbsp; “I agree with your decision to keep it quiet and see no reason to discuss it with others.”&nbsp; She added, leaning back in the chair for a moment before sitting straighter again, his question rising in her mind and her nervousness returning.&nbsp; It was much easier to focus on business than it was something so personal to both of them.&nbsp; <br><br>Concerned about what would happen if he said no and worried about what would happen if he said yes, she inwardly chided herself.&nbsp; She had always been a well-spoken and confident woman.&nbsp; She had been chosen to be the Keeper of the Chronicles because of her skills and abilities.&nbsp; She had spoken with Kings and Queens, sometimes negotiating and sometimes chiding them.&nbsp; And now she hesitated.&nbsp; Now, when she was alone and private, she hesitated to put herself out there and tell him the truth.&nbsp; Further chiding herself, she crossed her ankles and sat straighter still.&nbsp; “I asked to speak with you privately only partially because of the darkfriend.&nbsp; Ever since I picked the Blue Ajah, there have been threats against my life but that is part of what I do.”&nbsp; She finally said, after sidestepping the question for a few extra seconds.&nbsp; “The other reason I wished to have a private conversation is because I have, for quite some time now, wished to discuss the possibility of bonding you as my Gaidin.”&nbsp; She answered his question honestly just as he had done for her even though her heart thudded in her chest at the mention of it.&nbsp; “I am quite aware that this isn’t something to enter into casually and there might be much to discuss but I would be pleased and proud should you agree to be my Warder.”
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				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cynadea</strong> on <strong>26-09-2015, 23:29:52</strong>
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				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/4/42/Gaidin.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Ardan Taliesin<br><strong>Position:</strong> Gaidin<br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> Aleana Sedai (Soon)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening, Saven 5th, 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Warning:</strong> N/a<br><hr><div style="text-align: justify;">Ardan was relieved that Aleana would not push further, that she would not give them to the Browns or the Reds, he wasn't sure which one would be worse. Still, she understood the need for secrecy. Who better to understand it than the Keeper of Chronicles? Or the Amyrlin? Ardan was more relaxed, now that someone else knew and did not run out of the room flailing. He couldn't smell anything different about her, or at least nothing worth notice.<br><br>The tension in her did not ease with his intruding question. Considering how hers at been, it was a fair turnabout. With the information that she had about him, about his secret, she held cards that she could use against him, or use to force him into a situation that he would want nothing to do with. This kind of power, Ardan though, should bring a measure of trust. She could share with him because if he could scratch her by spreading information spoken in confidence, she could put him in a world of trouble.<br><br><em>"I have, for quite some time now, wished to discuss the possibility of bonding you as my Gaidin."</em> The words were immediately registered by his brain and he felt the blood drain from his face. He had the level of skill required to be a warder. He had forgone the possibility of marriage and children already, although he was still young enough to father a son or three.&nbsp; "Blood and Ashes." He said under his breath. There was a difference about dreaming to become a Warder and being offered to really be one. He hoped that his words had not offended or come across as a negative answer to her offer.<br><br>Ardan had the skills, the will, and certainly the respect necessary to become Aleana's warder. He was not infallible, of course, but he was dedicated and trained hard to become better.&nbsp; He knew that there was no other woman to whom he would rather bind himself. Aleana was no foolish woman, she would not throw herself in the face of danger without care for her life or his, or how the loss of her life meant his own death. His life tied to hers, until death. His stomach twisted as the decision was taken. Ardan brushed the palm of his hand over his face, from forehead to chin and finally returned her gaze to her Aleana, Keeper of the Chronicles, raised from the Blue Ajah.<br><br>Ardan moved from sitting onto the edge of his chair to kneeling at her feet. He was humbled and honored by her offer, and he had to let her know. "It will be an honor to serve, Aleana Sedai, and I would be proud to be your Gaidin. I swear to protect you and serve, my loyalty is to you, and to the Tower. By the Light and my hope of Salvation and Rebirth, I so swear, or may the Creator's face turn from me forever and darkness consume my soul." The words came out of his mouth as if spoken by someone else, more binding than any weave she would put on him. His voice was unwavering even if his palms were sweaty. He wasn't entirely sure that it was the kind of oath that he had to take to become her gaidin, but he relied on her to guide him if it wasn't. He had professed his loyalty to her, and to the Tower and he knew that it would go in that order, precisely. Her first, Tower after.<br><br></div>
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				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sindra</strong> on <strong>23-10-2015, 21:58:49</strong>
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			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/50/BlueAjah.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Aleana Schiller (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=234819.msg11575159#msg11575159)<br><strong>Position:</strong> Keeper of the Chronicles, Blue Ajah <br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> None (As yet!)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Ardan | Closed<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening | Saven 5 | 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana’s Room <br><strong>Warning:</strong><br><hr>Though it was nearly imperceptible behind her composed expression, the skin around Aleana’s eyes tightened at the initial reaction and she watched with growing inward concern as the blood drained from Ardan’s face.&nbsp; Though she hadn’t been sure what to expect from her offer, she had hoped that it wouldn’t quite cause what almost seemed like fear.&nbsp; Perhaps he had been interested in that eager Yellow sister and didn’t quite know how to tell her no?&nbsp; Perhaps he wasn’t interested in being bound to her but was concerned about ramifications?&nbsp; He had just shared something private and, at the Tower, something that could lead to him being poked and prodded by the Red and Brown ajah’s.&nbsp; She hoped he knew her well enough to know that she wouldn’t betray his trust for such a reason but he might not as she was not overtly open.<br><br>Her thoughts were swirling, her mind conjuring dozens of possibilities but, before she knew it, he was kneeling before her.&nbsp; Brows rising at the seemingly sudden gesture, the rush of conjecture in her mind stopped immediately, focused on the man in front of her instead.&nbsp; Her tan eyes widened in surprise as he spoke and a strange mixture of serious pleasure filled her.&nbsp; She could almost feel the strength of the oath he spoke from his heart and it warmed every part of her.&nbsp; She both wished to laugh in relief and happiness that he had agreed but knew it was inappropriate and wanted to answer his oath with one of her own.&nbsp; That too wasn’t appropriate but for entirely different reasons.&nbsp; She was an Aes Sedai and while there would never be anyone closer to her than her Gaidin, she couldn’t make the same kind of promises he had made though she wished to.&nbsp; <br><br>Straightening in her chair, her gaze never wavering from the man that just agreed to become her Warder, she took a subtle deep breath, letting the air leave her lungs slowly.&nbsp; It was an incredible moment for her – for them – and she wanted it to be just right.&nbsp; “I do not have words to express just how grateful I am that you have chosen to accept my bond, Gaidin Ardan Taliesin.&nbsp; Your dedication to the Tower over these years has been extraordinary and your help beforehand has never been forgotten.”&nbsp; She said, inwardly pleased that her words came out clearly and strong through her own nerves.&nbsp; Pausing for a moment, she licked her dried lips and shook her head, letting herself be more open with him even though he had already agreed.&nbsp; “I wish you to know that I had wanted you as my Gaidin from that first meeting.&nbsp; Your generosity, courage and strength in our time of need meant much to me and spoke volumes of your character.&nbsp; I waited as long as I have only to be sure that this was the life you wished for yourself.”&nbsp; She explained, presuming he would understand.&nbsp; The Tower and the Aes Sedai that occupied it were… difficult… to put it mildly.&nbsp; It was certainly not the life for everyone and the Gaidin had it harder than most.&nbsp; Dedicating their lives to an Aes Sedai completely was not something to be taken lightly – by either party.&nbsp; She had wanted to give him the chance to see what he was getting himself into and the chance to determine if that was truly what he wanted.&nbsp; <br><br>Opening herself to Saidar, Aleana let the female half of the One Power fill her slowly, carefully.&nbsp; Though she had never bonded a Warder, the weave was taught to the women of the Tower and she began constructing it with great care.&nbsp; It was not a weave she wished to make any errors with as she had no idea what the effects would be and, even more importantly, she wanted it to be powerful.&nbsp; If they were going to be bound together forever, she would put her best work into it.&nbsp; “Gaidin Ardan Taliesin, from this day forward, we will be bound together; our very lives entwined until death.&nbsp; I am honored and delighted to call you my Gaidin, my Warder.”&nbsp; Allowing herself to show her pleasure, she beamed a smile at him as she finished the weave, the bond connecting with him as she finished speaking, branding both of them for the rest of their very lives.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cynadea</strong> on <strong>29-10-2015, 03:03:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/4/42/Gaidin.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Ardan Taliesin<br><strong>Position:</strong> Gaidin<br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> Aleana Sedai (Soon)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening, Saven 5th, 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Warning:</strong> N/a<br><hr><div style="text-align: justify;">Ardan remained kneeling at her feet, the last word of his oath had passed his lips and he still couldn't believe it. When Aleana spoke, Ardan looked up at her and listened. He had joined the tower with military training, he believed that his skills had needed a dose of honing, but he was already a decent swordsman. She could, at any point, have laid her claim on him and his answer would have been positive. Her words confirmed that she could have, had she been the hasty kind. Had she asked at any point, he would have told her that it was his goal, his dream, to become a warder. He was not desperate enough for his dream that he would accept to be bonded by just any one of the available Aes Sedai. Her, however, he trusted. Why else would he have shared his secret with her?<br><br>Ardan braced himself for what came. Some had described it as merely unpleasant, others as needles in the brain. Ardan was ready, but he was also not one to let pain take him over. He took the settling of the weave very stoically, but as soon as the bond would connect them together, she would be able to feel that he was far from stoic. He was excited, ecstatic, and so very grateful to be so trusted with such an important task. He knew that she would rely on him now, for her protection, and to care for her when she needed it. <br><br>"The honor is mine, Aleana Sedai." He replied solemnly and he climbed onto his feet to walk closer to her. One hand raised and came to rest against the side of her neck and he leaned in to kiss her forehead. "My Aes Sedai." He added so very softly that only her ears could catch it. He pressed his forehead to hers and closed his eyes so that he could focus on the presence, the bundle now living in the back of his mind that was her. His bondmate. <br><br>"Would it be out of line for me to hold you?" He asked, still speaking softly as if he did not mean to be overheard. He felt uncertainty at his request, something that would easily seeped into the bond as he had no clue how to prevent some emotions to reach her just yet. He was uncertain, but also a bit shy. A wise man would know better than to ask such a question… but would a wise man without a death wish agree to become bonded to a woman who seemed to have a target painted on her back? After all, he had stopped an assassination attempt on her person only hours ago. He also wasn't sure what kind of relationship she expected from the bond, but he was prepared to be what she expected of him.<br><br></div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sindra</strong> on <strong>04-11-2015, 05:44:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/50/BlueAjah.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Aleana Schiller (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=234819.msg11575159#msg11575159)<br><strong>Position:</strong> Keeper of the Chronicles, Blue Ajah <br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> None (As yet!)<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Ardan | Closed<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening | Saven 5 | 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana’s Room <br><strong>Warning:</strong><br><hr>A sense of awe swept through Aleana as the bond connected, binding them together forever.&nbsp; No amount of education from the Tower or personal experiences from other Aes Sedai could have prepared her for the unique sensation of actually <em>feeling</em> another person.&nbsp; He was there.&nbsp; Not just in her rarely used bedroom but also inside of her mind.&nbsp; Blinking at Ardan as he rose and stepped closer, her face broke out into a beaming smile, his own excitement mingling with her own, feeding it.&nbsp; <br><br>“My Gaidin.”&nbsp; She breathed, the sense of wonder not at all diminished.&nbsp; She had waited for years to offer him the bond and, while necessary for both of them, she was thrilled that they were finally bound.&nbsp; Finally, she was his Aes Sedai and he was her Gaidin.&nbsp; Closing her eyes as their foreheads touched gently, she took a slow, deep breath as she <em>felt</em> him in the back of her mind.&nbsp; Wonder, pleasure, curiosity and the barest hint of nervousness flowed from her as she did nothing to hide herself from him.&nbsp; No matter what happened from here on out, they were tied together.&nbsp; United.&nbsp; He was the one person that she would be able to trust completely.&nbsp; It was an odd mixture of refreshing freedom and quite scary.&nbsp; <br><br>She chuckled lightly, the sound coming out barely above a whisper and she shook her head minutely.&nbsp; “It’s not out of line at all.”&nbsp; She replied, her voice soft and carrying a hint of her happiness.&nbsp; While they would return to their stoic natures once they were back in the public eyes, Aleana already valued their time together.&nbsp; Slipping closer to him, she wrapped her arms around him lightly, a hint of uncertainty creeping in.&nbsp; She hadn’t held or been held by anyone other than Raine in years.&nbsp; “Thank you, Ardan.”&nbsp; She spoke again and sighed, “Thank you for becoming my Gaidin.&nbsp; This is… thrilling.”&nbsp; She mused, still in awe.&nbsp; <br><br>Resting her head against his shoulder, she relaxed against his body, grateful to be surrounded by his strength.&nbsp; “I know there is much to discuss but can we save it for tomorrow?”&nbsp; She asked quietly.&nbsp; There was indeed much to discuss about the bond, what they both wanted from it and their duties to the Tower but she wanted to savor the moment, to fully appreciate the man that had agreed to protect her and had already risked his life for her.&nbsp; The rest… they could, and would, figure out.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cynadea</strong> on <strong>08-11-2015, 00:12:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/4/42/Gaidin.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Ardan Taliesin<br><strong>Position:</strong> Gaidin<br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> Aleana Sedai<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening, Saven 5th, 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana's room<br><strong>Warning:</strong> N/a<br><hr><div style="text-align: justify;"> Ardan hoped that the thick leather that he had worn while guarding the petitioner's foyer would not be an issue, but then he realized that his request to hold her had been to physically feel her close, not just in his mind, as if trying to ease the intensity of the feeling. He made a quick move to the clasp at his side and one at his shoulder to remove the armor, revealing a rather plain white shirt underneath, slightly crumpled by the pressure of the hardened leather. Ardan dropped on the seat of the chair where he was sitting a moment ago, and did so gently even though the armor could have sustained a rougher treatment and not gotten damaged. He was just that careful.<br><br>Ardan did not lose much more time before giving in to his urge to pull her close to him. Her words, her emotion, her body's state, everything was reaching him all at the same time. It was like communicating with someone at another level, in a language he had yet to learn. The language of her emotions. He could recognize some easily enough, as they were the mirror of his own. He wrapped his arm around her in a protective, maybe even slightly possessive manner, but in no way smothering. "It's such an honor, Aleana. I think I have yet to wrap my head around it fully. It's not going to sink in properly until the morning." He said and realized that he had not used her title a few seconds too late. He would never dare to do this in public, where others could hear.<br><br>"Of course, you've had a long, eventful day. It can certainly wait for tomorrow." It wasn't like everything had to be decided tonight. Oh! He would get to move out of the barracks and into the Gaidin's wing! The joy of having his own room, rather than sleeping in the same large room with a dozen of snoring men.&nbsp; He felt a mix of relief and joy at the thought of that. No one to pull pranks on him anymore, and a more private place to store his belongings; now that was a perk that he had not considered, but that was quite considerable for someone who had tasted the perks of a higher rank prior to coming to the Tower.<br><br>"Would you like me to leave you soon, so that you can rest?" Ardan asked although he had no desire to leave, and putting some distance between his Aes Sedai and himself was something that he was reluctant to do. She should be safe, in the Blue Ajah Hall, but then again, she should have been safe in the White Tower's dining area…&nbsp; He simply wanted to have her close for now, get used to her, get acquainted with her at such a personal level. Ardan was careful not to let his mind wander, not to focus on the feel of her very attractive feminine body held against his. Tower training had left very little time for pleasure. Would the bond remain platonic, as the training told them to expect. Could it really remain platonic when they were in each other's mind? Ardan wondered but did not question. He suspected that this was just the beginning of the questioning that would rise out of being bonded.</div>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Sindra</strong> on <strong>20-11-2015, 03:05:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/5/50/BlueAjah.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Aleana Schiller (https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=234819.msg11575159#msg11575159)<br><strong>Position:</strong> Keeper of the Chronicles, Blue Ajah <br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> Ardan<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Ardan | Closed<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening | Saven 5 | 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana’s Room <br><strong>Warning:</strong><br><hr>“It has been an eventful day.”&nbsp; Aleana agreed, a quiet sigh slipping from her lips.&nbsp; That someone wanted her dead was not much of a surprise.&nbsp; Many felt that way about all Aes Sedai.&nbsp; But the fact that someone had tried to accomplish her death inside the White Tower was concerning.&nbsp; “And no doubt will be an eventful morning for both of us.”&nbsp; She paused for a moment, a hint of worry slipping through her happiness.&nbsp; “I would like to inform the Amyrlin Seat in the morning as to what happened.”&nbsp; She paused again, hesitating slightly.&nbsp; “And introduce you as my Gaidin.”&nbsp; She finally added.&nbsp; While Raine had met Ardan and she had known of Aleana’s interest in potentially bonding the man, it hadn’t been discussed for quite some time.&nbsp; <br><br>Pondering the question about him departing, her tan gaze flicked around her room.&nbsp; She wasn’t particularly interested in him departing but, undoubtedly, there were things he would wish to accomplish on his own.&nbsp; “You’re more than welcome to stay here.”&nbsp; She offered easily, it being her preference.&nbsp; “But I also understand you have much to accomplish yourself so if you wish to do as such, I understand.”&nbsp; Though she had hoped to wait on any business until morning, it simply wasn’t how her mind worked.&nbsp; Between being bonded to her and the events of the night, there was much that would change for Ardan as well.&nbsp; The Masters would need to be informed to both his rise and the attempted assassination and, of course, he would be allowed to move to a private room.&nbsp; A flicker of disappointment at the thought washed over her quickly before fading into thoughtfulness.&nbsp; <br><br>“There’s so much to discuss.”&nbsp; She said aloud after remaining deep in thought for a short time.&nbsp; Gently slipping out of their embrace, she met his eyes, a smile slowly spreading across her face.&nbsp; “Though I said we should wait for morning, and still feel that way, I can’t help the onslaught of questions and thoughts I’ve had.”&nbsp; She explained and chuckled, amused at herself.&nbsp; Would they end up staying in the Blue Hall together?&nbsp; What would their relationship entail?&nbsp; She had been so certain that it would be completely platonic if she were to bond anyone but would that even be possible?&nbsp; They were so connected, their lives so entwined.&nbsp; Was it really possible to maintain a professional relationship?&nbsp; Would either of them really want that?&nbsp; <br><br>Rolling her eyes at her own thoughts, a burst of ironic amusement flashing through her, she tried to force her questions and concerns aside as she had promised herself she would do.&nbsp; Glancing at her closet, her tan eyes brightened.&nbsp; “I should get changed.”&nbsp; She mentioned casually.&nbsp; “If you do want to stay here for the night, is there anything you need?&nbsp; I can have an Accepted or Novice collect whatever you might need.”
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: The White Tower ~ Blue Ajah Hall</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Cynadea</strong> on <strong>26-11-2015, 21:24:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/4/42/Gaidin.jpg)</div><strong>Character name:</strong> Ardan Taliesin<br><strong>Position:</strong> Gaidin<br><strong>Bondmate:</strong> Aleana Sedai<br><strong>Tag:</strong> Aleana<br><strong>Time:</strong> Evening, Saven 5th, 990NE<br><strong>Place:</strong> Aleana's room<br><strong>Warning:</strong> N/a<br><hr><div style="text-align: justify;">"I will be where you want me to be." Ardan agreed with a nod of his head. He wasn't some mindless puppet who would never have a mind of his own or take decisive actions, but he picked his battles and arguing that he should not meet the Amyrlin in the morning would have been both useless and senseless. He was bonded to the keeper, so unless Aleana decided to send him away, he would meet the intimidating Amyrlin whenever his Aes Sedai desired for him to be there.<br><br>"There is nothing that I have to do now that cannot wait for morning. Besides, finding the Master of Arms to inform him of the changes and make my report would require finding him. I doubt that he is on the Tower's grounds at the moment. Not with the first evening of the Faire right outside our doors." The faire was not that close to the Tower, of course, but it was in Tar Valon, so it was close. The evening shadow of the Tower would be cast onto the faire.&nbsp; "I can probably hope to move my things to a new room in the Gaidin's wing only in the morning. I will stay with you, if that is what you prefer." Getting his color-shifting cloak and his warder sword would also wait for the morning. He was a Gaidin! There was a surge of excitement at the thought that could most likely be felt through the bond.<br><br>Ardan did not resist when Aleana decided that the embrace had lasted long enough. He nodded in agreement to her statement. There was a lot to discuss, he needed to be aware of her expectation if she meant for him to meet them. Bond or not, he still wasn't able to read his mind and women still were as confusing to him as ever. He certainly had a few dozens of questions of his own, unknowingly quite similar to the one in the Aes Sedai's mind. <br><br>When Aleana mentioned that she should get changed, Ardan considered the door was it was proper for him to leave, but her next words made him freeze. He felt his cheeks prickle slightly and cursed being caught off guard so easily with a single question. He was Andoran, and raised to be proper, but he did feel the urge to stay by her side. It was more than being here if there was another attempt on her life. He wanted to be with her.<br><br>"Ah… uh… A pair of clean smallclothes?" He said, and it sounded like a question even to his ears. "I can go and get it myself. It wouldn't take me long…" Ardan insisted. He would probably take a clean change of clothes too, while he was at it, and maybe even wash up a little so that she won't have the feeling of sleeping with an old leather armor beside her, and… Ardan took a deep breath and his emotions shifted as training kicked in. He became calm again, but if Aleana paid attention to the bond, she would learn of one of the things that threw him off balance, if only for a time.</div>
			</dd>
		</dl>
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