It was still Nesan. The second last month of the year. The sun rose over Tar Valon with a cold glow to it. Winter was always cold, no matter where you were. But this day was not just an ordinary winter day, not just an ordinary Nesan day. It was the last day of Nesan and today the Danshu festival was held. This holiday was celebrated through out the lands west of the Spine of the World, even here in Tar Valon. Though the day might seem ordinary during the day, with chores and classes for those resident in the Towers and work for those in town, it wasn't going to stay like that once people got some time free. As the evening came and darkness started to fall many inns and taverns were crowded with people.

One of the inns who was open this night was the Five pointed leaf. The inn had been handed down for the past 4 generations and was well visited. Tonight the Five pointed leaf had the luck of having a gleeman within it's walls and tonight he entertained the guests. The guests varied from all different kinds, peasants and nobles, merchants and sailors even Tower people like Aes Sedai, Asha'man and Gaidin, not to mention the younger Accepted, novices, Dedicated, soldiers, or the Younglings and recruits. People came and went and the inn was making a fortune this Danshu evening.

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It had been a long day for a free day. Classes and practice almost all day, then chores and helping her mentor out for the rest of it. Now, when it was almost time for dinner Nevira so longed for something other then the Towers mess hall. She was in luck today, it was the last day of Nesan and Danshu was celebrated even here. Today was a free day and so she could go out in the city for some food and fun. As it was a celebration Nevira had let her friends know she would be going to the Five pointed leaf, an inn she had only visited a few times but that served lovely grilled chicken. Nevira hoped that someone else would be there as well, perhaps Resolute would even have time to pass by, but she wouldn't know. Ever since the ball people seemed to be so busy they couldn't even stop and smell the roses in the garden once and a while. If they didn't take the time to blow off some steam people would end up burned out sooner or later, something that wasn't good for anyone, least of all the Towers.

Walking down the streets of Tar Valon Nevira found herself smiling at the windows glowing in the night. The streets weren't overly busy like during the days, but they weren't empty either. She walked by several inns where she could hear laughter and loud talking and even one where the people inside were singing along in an old traditional song. It was a nice night, though slightly chilly but Nevira was prepared for that. Dressed in her usual clothes she had her cloak on as well, which helped with the soft wind and chill in the air. At her hip she had a sword. The sword belonged to the Garrison, but she had been put in charge of taking care of it as if it was her own and she carried it around most of the time since the ball. Who knew when she'd need it, especially now when she had lost all but three knives.

It didn't take an awfully long time to reach the Five pointed leaf, but even so Nevira felt as if she had been starving. As she came in it didn't help that the place seemed rather crowded. Normally she would have chosen to go to an other inn, but tonight she had said she would be here and so she would stay. Looking around she eventually found herself a seat but had to wait a fair amount of time before one of the maids noticed her. The maid soon walked off with Neviras order and Nevira leaned back against the wall and watched her surroundings.

(ooc- I'm going to rp this as if I already completed some novice classes already. This looks like it's going to be fun!)

Between chores and classes, Katrina found that she almost had no time to herself at the Tower. When she left her keep, she had been accustomed to giving orders, but that frame of mind quickly earned her more than one punishment already. Now, she jumped when an Aes Sedai said frog. Today was almost an exception, since it was a freeday, so Katrina could barely sit still during her novice classes to the dismay of her mentor. It seemed to take forever for the day to progress and in the late afternoon, she spent hours getting ready. It wasn't really a special occasion at all, but Katrina missed the feeling of getting spiffed up for an event. She chose a simple red dress with long sleeves and a low neckline, surprising since she was from Andor. This was the one of the only piece of clothing she still had from her long journey to Tar Valon. She lightly curled her hair with a ceramic hair curler heated in the coals of the fire in her room. Her destination tonight was an inn; The Five Pointed Leaf. She heard some accepted talking about it. There was going to be a gleeman! Light, she hadn't seen a gleeman since she was ten and visiting the Queen's palace.

Dawning her long cloak and slipping a small knife up her sleeve just in case, she made her way down the novice corridor, she could hear excited talking come from each room. It would seem that everyone would be making good use of their evening off. As she left the White Tower she declined the stable boys offer of a horse. She would walk to the inn and have a chance to glance at the various shops on the way there.

It was a clear starless night, the sun just fading over the horizon and the moon already high in the sky. The stores where all closed; the owners also enjoying the evening and the streets where only partially full compared to the bustle experienced during the day. Katrina walked past many inns, light streaming out the windows and doors into the night and the sounds of merrymaking issued forth. Raucous laughter and singing. Katrina really wanted to learn how to enjoy herself again. As she’d grown in life, she’d become a stern woman, consumed by her noble position. She hoped that tonight she’d be able to regain at least a bit of her fun loving childhood. As she approached the Five Pointed Leaf, her heart raced. Light, this was going to be exciting. She took a seat in the crowded inn near, but not quite with some people she remotely recognized from the Tower. She flagged down a serving girl and ordered some spiced wine. Hopefully, this would be a night to remember.

It was a long day for Miakoda, not only casue she stared to take some extra classes, but because today was Danshu. It was a great chance to dress up and dance the night away. And Miakoda was going to do just that. She was lucky enough that she was in the city a couple of days ago and heared some people talking about the festivel that would be going on. She was alwaso luckey enough to have bought a nice dress to wear. For the most part Miakoda hated dresses, she ws never able to move in them the way that she would like. But since coming to the tower she has grown rather found of them. Her dress tonight would be wonderful. It was not fancy like a high noblmen would wear, but just right to feel pretty. She looked out the window from her last class. The sun was just about to set over the city. As soon as the Aes Sedai said that they were free to go. Miakoda gathered her belongings and made her way to her room. She had hung the dress out to have it ready. That way she would just have to put it on, give her hair a good brush. Slipping the dress on and fixing her hair. Miakoda looked at herself in the mirror and started to giggle. She really didn't look like her self. Her hair was done up in a high bun with a few strands of hair around her face, Shinny pins were sticking out of the bun, what was holding them in place and her dress was a dark forest green, and low cut as well. She gave herself one more look in the mirror gave another small laugh and set out for the city.

By the time Miakoda got to the city, all of the shops had closed for the night. That much didn't surpise Miakoda. She did hope that she would be able to get some new shoes though it seemed that she would be out of luck for that. Her shoes were not tha bad, just she wanted new ones for around the tower, A little smile came to her face. "I care if I have new shoes for the tower, but when I go out I don't" She said to herself and laughed over it. It took her a while to find an inn that she would like to spend her evning at. There was so many to choose from. She looked through the windows to see what was going on, with every inn that she passed. Finally she found one that looked like there was alot of fun going on. She opned the door and the sound of laughter and music filled her ears. She smiled and shut the door behind her once she entered. The inn was called. Five Pointed Leaf. She had never been here before, but it looked really fun. She found an empty seat near the back of the room and took it. Many of the young men that were there were looking at her. She tried not to smile at them though it was a little hard. Miakoda had wished that she had more friends at the tower after that happen. She was so into her studys that she never made time for anyone else. Letting out a low sigh a stout looking women came to get her order. Grilled Chicken was what they were serving that night, and it sounded wonderful. She Ordered that and some Spiced Wine. She never really drank anything other than Tea, though there was a festivel going on, How could she not. Miakoda listned to the music and tapped her foot along to the songs that she knew and spipped her spiced wine. She let the days work from the tower fall behind her and let joy of the night take her out.

Aven hurried to spruce himself up. Tonight was Danshu, and the first time he would leave the Tower since the Feast of the Dragon. He hadn't really had time to enjoy the Feast, and now he was more accustomed to the idea of Tar Valon, if not its streets. At the least he would no longer be gawking.

After washing up from sword practice (light, he was sore after every lesson) he pulled his old shirt over his head and put on a fresh pair of his uniform pants- they were nicer than his old pants, and weren't obviously part of a uniform.

Grabbing the sketchbook Sei had given him before he left, as well as a moneypurse issued to him through the Tower, Aven hurried out into the afternoon sun. It was only beginning its slow descent to the earth, the sky barely tinged with color.

People were streaming out of the Towers, under the wary eye of the Tower guard. He felt bad for them, not being able to participate, but they were obviously taking no chances after the Feast of the Dragon. He'd heard Ash'aman had been enlisted as well as a pre-cautionary defense system.

Putting all thoughts of the Towers out of his head, he made his way merrily (albeit more cautiously, remembering his run-in last time in the City) throughout Tar Valon's winding streets. He got more than a few looks from various young women, of which he was blissfully ignorant.

He'd bought himself a few trinkets from the die-hard peddlers still selling at this late hour, some colored inks and a statuette of a dragon. It was a pretty little thing, done up in faux-gold paint and vibrant reds. The sinewy make of it apealed to his eye.

As the descending sun cast a purplish light to the sky, his belly finally began to rumble. Aven began searching about for a tavern. The nearest one was called The Five Pointed Leaf, with a brightly painted sign. Festival sounds eminated from within. It looked like a good place to grab a bite and mingle with (and also sketch) the crowd. Something about people in a relaxed social atmosphere was fascinating, artistically speaking.

He took a step inside and immediately lost himself in the crowd.

Farina didn't remember having so much fun in a long time. Calling the masquerade fun was a bit far-fetched, considering what had happened after a few hours of dance, and the White Tower didn't offer much chance to really have a good time. But tonight was an exception. A freeday. Farina had left the White Tower as soon as she had finished her classes and chores and freshened up a bit, and she had taken the most of it ever since. She had circled almost the whole city, gaping at statues and fountains, visiting the few shops that had still been open and taking a drink at every tavern she passed. She was already feeling a bit giddy, but that was just part of the fun. If everything went as she had planned, she would feel a lot giddier before the night ended.

Farina gave a giggle as she saw a bunch of young men walking together, supporting each other and singing out of tune. She wasn't the only one who was having fun, although it was a bit too early to be that drunk. Farina passed them without stopping, and smoothed her bright green dress. She had bought that dress since the one she had used in the masquerade was ruined. It wasn't too fancy; it was of good wool and it had only a little embroidery on the sleeves. She had taken the liberty to cut the neckline a lot lower than usual Andoran dresses. She was quite happy with the result.

Giving another laugh, this time for the sheer joy of being outside the White Tower, she found another inn. The Five pointed leaf, it said on the sign. Farina walked straight in and took a free seat at an empty table. There was one thing she hadn't been able to find in the various inns she had visited, and that was male company. Oh, there had been men who had tried to hit on her, but none of them had pleased her. Maybe this inn would prove to be an exception. She ordered some spiced wine and listened to the music, waiting to see who was the first one to enter her table.

Robert walked into the inn, whistling softly to himself. He had been working very hard lately, and felt he deserved to take a little time to relax. He liked to come down here; he occasionally needed a break from the formality of his position and to get away from everything. The ale was good, the food was good, and the barmaids were nice to look at. Joachim and his people had checked it out carefully before he entered, and now the ones who weren't keeping watch outside were sitting at various tables around the inn, blending in with the patrons and keeping a weather eye out for trouble. He nodded to the innkeeper as he entered and was shown to his usual table, where a pretty girl soon brought him a tankard of ale and left him to his own devices. Several juniors had spotted him and made as if to rise; he quickly waved them back down. This was a holiday, after all, and no need to spoil it with formality. Just as long as the recruits showed up sober for morning formation. He had worn one of his usual working uniforms, with no insignia to mark his rank, and he had left the white baton of his office in his quarters in the barracks. He had told Erin not to keep dinner for him, he would probably eat here and if he didn't, he could always get a quick snack at home later.

The evening was quite nice, every here and there Nevira spotted tower people in the crowd but none she knew and so she waited patiently for her dinner. When it finally came her the smell was divine, which naturally caused her stomach to rumble as the waitress sat down the plate. The woman looked at her a little surprised, but Nevira only gave her a smile as if it had been a joke. The girl just shook her head and left. What ever was going through her mind didn't concern Nevira though, taking her side knife she cut off a leg of the chicken and started eating. Light did food taste good.

It didn't take that long for Nevira to finish her dinner, sitting alone at the table talk wasn't keeping her busy. So she realized she was sitting there listening to the lowchant the gleeman was performing. Looking about she noticed Robert Gaidin entering, she immediately rose to bow but he waved at her and the other recruits around the room in a gesture that told it wasn't necessary. Already on her feet she didn't feel to sit down in her lonely corner again so she started to take a stroll through the room. Most of the tables were flooding over with people, only rarely were the tables so empty that a person could sit alone.
In the old days, back in Cairhien, it was in these kinds of crowds that she and Arvance had made the most money really. Exceptions being one break in at a really rich nobles house but that was only cause one of those helping got caught so his share was split up among the rest. Arvance had also made sure that Nevira rarely participated in such break ins, not cause she was bad at it, but cause he was protective of her. He really had been a brother to her.
Cairhien was long gone now, and Nevira had no impulses when it came to stealing save for old memories popping to the surface. She wouldn't do such a thing anymore without an order to do so from the Gaidin, and they never would.

As she had been thinking about old times she had been leaning against a separative wall between two tables. Noticing she made sure her money was in place by letting her hand slide to her side and then looked around. No one was watching it seemed, but wait, over there.
At a table by the window a lone soldier sat. In his hand he had some form of notepad and Nevira met his gaze as he looked at her again. What is he doing? Nevira wondered as she recognized the boy. He had participated in her class on shadowspawn. What was his name again? Oh right Aven.

Having nothing better to do Nevira crossed the room and walked over as Aven looked down at his pad again. Softly, without sound, she put her hands on the table and leaned over to see what he was doing. The sight that caught her eyes was a sketch, it was fairly good and it depicted... me? "You have a good hand with that." Nevira said then looked at Aven with a smile.

Katrina's spiced wine arrived promptly, the glass pleasantly warm to the touch. The aromatic smell of exotic spices wafted up her nose providing a delicious, enjoyable scent and an equally outstanding taste. She eyed the serving girl as she walked by again, this time with a roast chicken bound for another table. It's skin looked perfectally crisp and the smell was one to match her spiced wine. Her mouth watered slightly although Katrina knew that she couldn't possibly order one, considering she had grabbed a quick bite to eat before leaving the tower. Light, what a foolish thing to do, Katrina thought to herself as another serving girl walked by, the food seemingly mocking her from the plates. She took a sip of her wine to take her mind of the food and went out into the crowd. After a moment she spotted the girl who'd given her a class on shadowspawn... Nemira? She was rather close to a soldier who'd also been in the class; Aven, his name was. The way Nemira looked at him and the way he looked back, it seemed to Katrina that she had a little something for him and that he had no idea. Oh well, Katrina thought to herself, she'd been horribly wrong about things like that in the past. It was then that she noticed the men. Boys in their late teens to almost senior men, sending her half guarded stares- some even openly leering. Katrina's first thought was to cross her arms in fron of her chest and leave, but then she realised that tonight was a freenight; a night for her to be out in the city having fun. She should enjoy herself, she wasn't a bloody stiff country girl that planned on dying a bachelorette, untouched, unkissed, unloved.

Knocking all negative thought out of heard mind, she walked through a group of young men. Giving a slight smile to some, a wink to others, lightly pressing up to ones side as she walked pass. She noticed Miakoda at another table with the works; Wine, chicken and men hanging around at a distance, yet visibly eyeing her. Katrina went to join her, a smile on her lips and merriment in her eyes, bringing with her, her own escort of mesmerized masculine company who of course, kept their distance; whispering among themselves and sending guarded looks. Miakoda graciously waved Katrina to a seat next to her and Katrina hoped that they could become friends even though Miakoda was already accepted; light knew she had few enough as it was in the Tower.

Robert had just ordered his meal: a nice roast, with potatoes, gravy, greens and fresh bread and butter, when he looked up and saw two mischevious grins coming his way. Erin and Elaine, both dressed as well-do-do merchants out looking to enjoy a night on the town. The two women sat down on either side of him; Erin to his left with that outrageous red hair, At her age, too! he thought to himself, and Elaine to his right, with a sort of shy half-smile he had never seen on her before. "Did you really think you could get away?" his sister jested as she sat down. "I gave cook the evening off. It is a freeday, after all." He motioned to a passing barmaid to order two more meals of the same. Erin stared at him for a moment, then laughed. "Take me dancing, brother. I haven't kicked up my heels in quite a while!" At that moment, so much of a concidence that Robert was sure that it wasn't, the group of gleemen and musicians in the corner struck up a country reel, and Erin grabbed his hand and pulled him into the dance floor, laughing all the while. It was a dance they knew from their childhood, with a lot of twirling and men lifting their partners and skirts flying outrageously, just the sort of dance that farmers and other country folk would indulge in at a fair. They came back to the table laughing, and then Erin pulled Elaine to her feet and shoved her into Robert's arms, "Get out there and enjoy yourself!" she ordered the younger woman. It was a slower dance, this time, and all the while Elaine said nothing, just looked up at him with that same enigmatic half-smile that he found more and more disconcerting.

They returned to the table afterwards, and found their meals waiting for them. Robert tossed a gold crown to the head musician, and then quickly took a gulp of ale, as the dancing had turned out to be thirsty work. The three of them fell to their meals with a will; the cooking here was excellent, and it was pleasant to venture out upon occasion. Afterwards he sat back with a repleted groan. I am definitely going to have to work this off tomorrow!

The food had arrived. The food smelt great. The chicken was just steaming out and the potatoes were just the way that she liked them, mashed up on the side swimming in the juice from the chicken. There was a few greens on the side to make sure that the meal was compliant. She smiled down at it and thanked the young women who had helped her. She laughed when the young men that was looking at her when the young women walked away. Shaking her head, Miakod took a small sip of her Wine and started to cut the chicken up. Hearing some whistles from the group of men, Mikaoda looked up to see what was going on. What poor women did they see the need to whistle at. She looked at the young girl and raised her eyebrow when she knew who it was. Katrina, from her class. She might have been a late Novice, but she was a late Novice that knew the answer to her question. She waved to Miakoda and, Miakoda waved back to her. The wave was more of a gesture to come and join her at her table. She knew that the Inn was quite full and more would still be joining, as the night went on. Miakoda laughed at how Katrina was moving around the boys. Smiling at one, winking at another, closely rubbing up on another. She giggled out loud and took a sip of her wine to calm herself before Katrina joined her at the table.

“Take a seat Katrina, the day was long and the night will be longer.” She smiled up at the girl as she took a seat beside Miakoda. The music was loud in the back ground playing a rather fast song. She watched the dancers dance. Wishing that she could be there dancing as well. She didn’t really care who she would be dancing with just as long as she could dance. Oh how Miakoda loved to dance. She was pretty good herself or at least that is what she is told. It might take her a while to get the swing of it, but as soon as she does there is no stopping her. The barkeep came up to the table asking Katrina
If there was anything that she wanted. She ordered some spice wine as well and Miakoda took the chance to order another glass her self.

“Are you enjoying your free day Katrina?” Miakoda asked taking another small bite of food.

Laridian gazed down at the festivities, perched in a window high in the Black Tower. From this height people looked so small, like insects, almost. His face brooding and impassive, he momentarily watched the dancing lights below him, before continuing his patrol. He had organized a group of Ash'aman ('volunteered' a few of them, really) to keep watch throughout the Tower. He was worried that the forces of the Dark One would choose another celebration to attack.

Well, part of it was that.... the other was that he by no means felt like dancing. It was too soon after such a devastating blow. There were several of his men who had actually volunteered, motivated by the hope for revenge. The angreal stores were Shen al'Dieb Chas very core, their reason for being. The attack on it had been a strike at the very heart of the Shen.

Walking through emptied halls, one ball of light overhead as another flew about into corners, checking archways, as Laridian checked with saidin enhanced eyes for anything suspicious, for a sign of intruders. There had been nothing so far and Laridian wasn't sure if that made him happy or sad.

His thoughts strayed to the dancing lights outside. Miakoda was probably out there somewhere, enjoying the revelry. Just as well. She should remain carefree as long as possible. Laridian was certain that the Towers would have little room for such celebration in the future. There were Dark Friends in the Towers. Strong ones. His eyes and ears, as well as those of the Shen, spoke of unrest throughout several nations as well. It all gave him a great sense of foreboding. He felt as if the lines in his face were increasing daily. The thought that his Shen would be in battle worried him greatly. As much as he complained, he loved every member like a brother, no, like a father, now that he was Rei. They were his to protect, every bumbling researcher to the strongest of channelers. The camaraderie they all shared had been the greatest sense of family he had ever known. He was working to prepare his family for the troubled times ahead. They would be ready.

But for now... he would watch out for them. Let them enjoy themselves. He would be here, ready to lead them.

Laridian turned down another empty corridor and continued his watch through the halls of the Black Tower.

Aven had eaten the dinner of the evening, and it was definitely the best chicken he had ever had. Light, Tar Valon was amazing. Reasons kept popping up to remain in the Black Tower, beyond wanting to learn Illusions. Well, not that he had any choice in the matter, and not that Illusions weren't reason enough, but the Black Tower was becoming increasingly better. It was hard, Creator knew, but it seemed it was worth it.

Meal finished, and lacking a companion, he pulled out his sketchbook. It was a relatively small journal, wrapped in blue-dyed leather. His sister had been saving it for his Nameday, but when she heard he was going to the Black Tower, had given it to him as a parting gift. Aven always tried to put only the really good drawings in it, treasuring the space it had and cramming as much as he could into every precious page.

His eyes picked their way through the crowd, scanning for an interesting person in an intersting pose, resting on one brightly dressed reveler after the next. Finally they stopped at a young woman leaning casually against a wall, watching the people around her. Aven's hand flew across the page, fluid lines of graphite defining her figure on the cream colored paper. He kept glancing up at her, checking her with the figure in his sketchbook, then back down to correct a line, to tighten a shape. He'd gotten a fair approximation of her down when he looked up and accidentally caught her gaze.

"Ashes!" he mentally cursed. He'd only then realized that it was the girl who'd taught his Shadowsworn class. And she was coming this way, no less. Light. Some people didn't react well to being watched... but then, most women also seemed to be flattered by being drawn. Well... the ugly ones usually didn't, because he made them look ugly, but this one... Nevira! That was her name. She was pretty. Aven crossed his fingers, and smiled nervously as she came walking his way. He still had the sketchbook out when she arrived.

""You have a good hand with that.", she said.

"Yes! She's impressed!" Aven let out a sigh of relief and smiled.

"Heh, thank you. I'm- ah, I was a painter's apprentice before coming to the Black Tower." He grinned. "You're Nevira, right? That was a really good class you taught. Where'd you learn so much about Shadowspawn?"

She was eyeing the other little sketches on the page. He held the book out to her. "You, ah, can look through it if you want. I haven't had it too long so there are only a few pages, but.. feel free to look, I guess."

Aven seemed relieved as she commented on his work. What was he thinking? That I'd yell at him? She might be older then him but in no way his superior nor did she dislike a guy looking at her. Res might.. She reminded herself, then also reminded herself that it was inevitable as inevitable as girls looking at Res. Aven smiled back anyway and seemed fairly happy. "Heh, thank you. I'm- ah, I was a painter's apprentice before coming to the Black Tower." With a grin on his face he added. "You're Nevira, right? That was a really good class you taught. Where'd you learn so much about Shadowspawn?"

Nevira felt like laughing. She was no where near a good teacher and in her view the class had been as basic as it could have been. But before she had time to do so he handed her the sketch book she was eyeing. "You, ah, can look through it if you want. I haven't had it too long so there are only a few pages, but.. feel free to look, I guess." Smiling again Nevira put her cloak down on one chair, took a seat in an other and looked at Aven before she opened the pad to the first page. "Learned a bit about shadowspawn here an there. Mostly here. It was part of the reason I survived and was able to help at all during the Feast of the Dragon." She didn't look up as she eyed the first page. But she could feel a look or two turning for a moment towards their table, people who had walked by and heard her mentioning the Feast of the Dragon as casually as she had. They probably didn't like it. Bad memories she supposed. "I guess it was a bit boring for you though, being Saldaean." She shot Aven a glance. Aven had never told her his origin, but his dialect was as distinct as any saldaeans tongue. Having a close friend like Myara made it impossible to not have learned the quirks of that dialect by now. Though really there were few dialects Nevira didn't recognize, though now they were very few and she could list them on her fingers easily.

The sketches in the book was really good and Nevira truly believed he might have been handpicked as a painters apprentice. She wondered slightly if he had had a good life back home and wished he would never have been able to channel, but then again she wouldn't know about such things. Channel was something Resolute did, not her. She would never fully understand it, she still wasn't quite used to it, but she accepted it as it was. "Sorry about that." She added as she had told Aven he was Saldaean, something he naturally knew but she normally wouldn't. Gesturing to her ear as if signaling hearing she added. "I'm usually good with listening to dialects. A old hobby of mine." She smiled and turned the page to look at the next one. "Were you here during the Feast?" She didn't think she had to add what feast, not again. Anyone overhearing it twice could get upset, if the person was drunk enough anyway. She had seen similar things happen at different times in her life. It usually turned out bad.

Handing the book back to him as she was done looking through it she added to her question. "Don't mean to pry if you don't want to speak about it. Most people have bad memories from that night, some more then others." She had heard that high officials in the Towers had been attacked. No matter who that had been Nevira hadn't seen any sign of her mentor since the feast, her mentor being the Mistress at Arms that couldn't be a good thing. Nevira hoped she was alright, where ever she was.

Katrina and Miakoda sat together; sipping their wine and Miakoda eating some of her chicken as well. The bartender spied Katrina holding an empty wine glass and scurried over, almost before she noticed it herself. Should couldn't but help but order more, as did Miakoda. “Are you enjoying your free day Katrina?” Miakoda asked taking another small bite of food. "It's going far better than I thought it would", Katrina admitted. "I was almost expecting an Aes Sedai to follow us, to make sure that we had "proper behaviour". Katrina laughed at her foolishness while Miakoda shared about her evening.
The bartender was hurrying back with their spiced wine; Katrina could already smell the spices wafting over. Unfortunately, before it could arrive at their table, the bartender was pulled aside by two very attractive young men; both clean-shaven and sporting narrow swords around their lean hips. After some brief discussions, they placed some coins in the bartender’s hand. The bartender continued on his way the Katrina’s table. Smiling, he gave Katrina and Miakoda their drinks. When they went to pay, the bartender made a brief gesture to the two young men lounging against the wall, he said, “They’ve got you covered”. Katrina and Miakoda exchanged a look and a light-hearted laugh. Each drawing a coin from their belt pouch, Katrina told the bartender to send them “two ales, on us”. Katrina could barely suppress her excitement as the bartender hurried off.

Moments later, the two young men, having finished their ale, sauntered over with easy grace, each one clearly approaching a different girl. So that ones for me, Katrina thought to self, eyeing the man coming her way, his sleek auburn hair reaching his shoulders. Miakoda was equally eyeing the other man.
The next song that was played was the tragic ballad of Alisha and the Seeker. A tale of how a young Aes Sedai, allows herself to be collared by the Seanchan in order to get closer to the man she loved, only to be rejected by him since damane are worthless. In despair, she burned herself out and then took her life.
Katrina stood up and locked the fingers of her right hand in his. He put his arm around her; holding her close and they began to dance. Lost in his deep brown eyes, she surrendered herself to the music and danced. She didn’t know how long they danced and an occasional glance around the room told her that Miakoda was also lost in the song. When it was over, Katrina barely had time to catch her breath when another song started, much more lively and fast paced. She hadn’t heard the song before, but she quickly adapted to the dance pattern. Men and women where separated in two lines facing each other. As the drum got louder, the two lines approached each other and Katrina laughed as the man opposite her twirled her around and then passed her on the next man in line. Katrina could see Miakoda further down the line, thoroughly enjoying herself.

Mirazhe enjoyed the cold wind brushing her face. She was Arafellin, and the cold didn’t bother the slightest bit. Of course, she had been living in cold temperatures all her life, so it was nothing new. Today was Danshu, and it meant a free day to every one in the Tower. She was looking forward to it, since lately, her chores and classes had been dragging her down. But today, she could spend all day relaxing. And maybe do a bit of shopping. She didn’t have much money, but if she browsed carefully and spent her money wisely, she could buy a few nice things for herself. Not that she really needed anything. She’d never had jewelry, never owned fancy clothes. The only thing she had really cherished was the little knife her father had gotten for her. It was the last present she’d ever gotten from him, seeing as how he had died the next year. She’d wanted to take it with her to the Tower, but the Aes Sedai who had taken her to the Tower had told her that weapons weren’t allowed. Besides, she’d left her mother behind, and she’d wanted to leave her mother something to remember her by.

Perhaps she could by some small bells. Then she could put them on her braids, in the true Arafellin style. Although, she hadn’t worn her hair in braids in since she’d come to the Tower. It wasn’t that she’d forgotten her heritage, not at all. She was proud of who and what she was. But, she had so little time in the morning to put it up in two braids. And she didn’t want to sleep with her hair in braids, as it tended to get mussed in the morning. So it had stayed down all this time, and she was starting to feel guilty. Putting her hair up and attaching the signature bells would make her feel better. However, she doubted that her teachers would let her wear the things in her hair. They’d tinkle in class, and distract everyone. But she could wear them at celebrations and during free days like today. That decided, she walked down the street and entered a shop.

A while later, after much browsing, she bought a pair of small silver bells. They tinkled prettily, and had loops at the top so she could thread a ribbon through them. She hadn’t bought anything else, though she’d seen lots of pretty things. The bells were enough for her. Stopping near an inn, she realized that she was hungry. She entered the inn, where she saw lots of people. It seemed as if the entire Tower had taken it into their heads to come to this one place today. Weaving her way through the crowd, she spotted an empty table and hurried over to it. Placing her things on the table, she sat down and asked a maid to bring her a cup of cider. After that was done, she relaxed and looked around. Miakoda and Mirazhe’s new roommate were here also, and they were deep in conversation. A couple of minutes later, the maid arrived with her cider. Sipping slowly from the mug, she let her thoughts drift.

Myara had gone to look for Robert, as she was still trying to get up to speed on the recent events within the garrison. She had been quite sure he would still be in his office, as he had been most nights when she left for her quarters, yet when she got there, he was already gone.

"He mentioned something about going out for the evening," a voice spoke, Thom's, she realized as she turned around. "Perhaps he has finally realized that even he deserves an early night every once and a while!"

Myara chuckled softly, wondering just what brought about this sudden change in routine, though she realized it was quite late and she was still working, obviously a catching trend. "Thanks Thom, perhaps I'll go see if he'd like some company... oh.. wait! I'd heard something about some of the others heading out for the evening. Thanks again, Thom!" She tipped her head in a gesture of gratitude, then turned to hurry off towards her own quarters.

She quickly changed into something more suitable for an evening out, a riding dress cut in Saldaean fasion, dark blue with gray accents, nice enough for a visit to an inn. She hadn't heard the name of the place people had planned to gather at, yet she was sure enough she could find it, and after brushing out her hair and rebraiding it, she was off. She felt Edeleas, but had not yet become quite adept at reading what she felt, though she had simply come to accept the fact that he had matters to deal with, knowing he'd find her if he needed her. Perhaps one day we'll run off to an inn together, just for the sake of relaxing, she mused hopefully, a hope she wouldn't give up.

After a brisk walk from the Tower grounds out into the city proper, she began to hear a collection of voices, mixed in with some wonderful music, and figured she had found the place. Ducking inside, she saw quite a few familiar faces, including those of Robert, Nevira, Erin and Elaine. Some of the others she had seen around, yet they were much less familiar, perhaps that would change tonight. She bit her lip a bit, as not to chuckle, catching sight of Robert dancing, obviously an event arranged by his sister. Myara stood quietly and watched, until they finished their go around, at which point she made her way over to the table they had gone to, offering him a somewhat humorous look. "I see you have found out that there is life beyond the office, Robert. At least for one evening, eh? Good evening, Erin and Elaine." To the two ladies, she gave a tip of her head followed with a warm smile.

"Sit," Robert commanded, but the words were softened by a warm smile. Then he got a most wicked grin on his face. He stood up and whistled loudly for attention. The music and the festivities gradually died down until the inn was silent, more or less. "Attention all gaidin and everyone else," he shouted, to be met by barks of laughter and friendly jibes. "We have a new officer in the garrison!" he said. His look was absolutely evil as he pointed to Myara. "Come over and congratulate her!" He laughed out loud at the expresssion of shock and horror and surprise on her face. He signaled the musicians, and they broke out into a lively air as he pulled Myara out of her seat and into a dance from the Borderlands. He spun her around the floor, then passed her off to another gaidin, who then passed her off to another, until she had made the circuit of the floor. The last escorted her back to the table, where Elaine and Erin were waiting with big smiles. As Myara sat down, the serving girl set her dinner in front of her. "On the house, mistress," she said, "compliments of the Marshal General." Robert smiled and tipped his wineglass towards her in a salute. Then he laughed out loud. "Myara, the look on your face is absolutely priceless!"

Taking orders as they came had become such a natural thing for Myara that she simply took a seat as she was told. She returned Robert's smile, tilting her head a bit in curiosity as his features shifted into a grin. She barely had time to watch him stand, when suddenly he was calling for the attention of nearly everyone in attendance. Light, what now?!? "We have a new officer in the garrison!" he said. She looked up to him, eyes wide as saucers. "Come over and congratulate her!" So much for an evening of peaceful relaxation! She laughed, knowing her face was probably twisted in some mask of surprise mixed with shock. Suddenly he Robert was pulling her from her seat, the one he had just told her to take, and they were dancing.

She passed from arm to arm, dancing to the music as it was played, seeing the face of almost every gaidin that had joined them for the festivities of Danshu. When she came to the last one, she was finally returned to the table where Robert, Elaine and Erin were seated. She gave him a grin, shaking her head softly as he spoke, "Myara, the look on your face is absolutely priceless!"

"I'll be owing you one. I haven't danced like that in years, Robert, or been quite as surprised!" She chuckled softly, "Quite a .... treat, it has been, to take an evening away from the barracks and responsibilities, though I am quite sure they will return bright and far too early to remind me of them!"

The winds were cold, but a certain blonde Asha'man with many piercings on his ears was far from being bothered by the chill. Edeleas sighed as he looked around the city around him, taking in the crowds and the Tower initiates that were enjoying the Danshu. He sighed again. He wasn't supposed to be here. True, he had no work in the Black Tower, but frolicking in the middle of... he was far too old for that - or far too changed for anything of the sort. Still, his Soldiers and Dedicated would have none of it. They dragged him out here in the first place, so here he was.

Tar Valon boasted of many great inns and bars, but right now Edeleas was not in the mood for ale or anything. He frowned lightly as he sensed Myara through the bond. She seemed like she was annoyed with something but also enjoying herself. She must be with the other Gaidin and Robert, drinking somewhere in these bars. Edeleas could go there, of course...and maybe...maybe his boys were right that he just needed some break. A good jig on the dance floor, an Illianer Dedicated of his hinted. Edeleas thought. When was the last time he danced? He couldn't remember.

Following the bond, Edeleas went to the place where Myara was. He entered the pub and sat down near the counter and asked for a mug of ale, all the while watching his Warder out of the corner of his eye. He smiled at her. He wondered if she liked to dance.

Dinner and a drink or two to go with it had been quite the pleasure, along with the company of Robert and the ladies. Of course, there had been little peace and quiet involved, as it seemed the entire garrison, down to the newest recruit had stopped by to speak a word or two. None the less, the evening had turned out to be quite the enjoyable one so far, and Myara was sure this way.

A thoughtful look crossed her face as she sipped at a fresh mug of ale, all the while she continued to greet those who passed by the table. So, you've decided to leave the Tower and enjoy just one evening out? She grinned slightly, feeling Edeleas there, knowing he had finally given in to the idea of an evening out in the city. She knew well that he had his share, and then some, of responsibilities, yet this was Danshu.

Sure enough, Edeleas had made his way to them, though she noted he remained at the bar, rather than approaching them. A warm smile crossed her lips, knowing he was there behind her, and with that she set her mug down. "If you'll excuse me for a bit," she addressed Robert, Erin and Elaine, "I'll be back, before too long." She stood, offering a slight bow, a mix of respect and proper manners, then crossing carefully between those who were dancing, the smile still upon her lips as she approached Edeleas. "You've decided to join us, I see? I had hoped you would find some time between the paperwork and soldiers to come this way."

Nevira flipped through the pages slowly, and Aven felt that slight nervousness he always felt, wondering whether or not someone enjoyed what he made. "Learned a bit about shadowspawn here an there. Mostly here. It was part of the reason I survived and was able to help at all during the Feast of the Dragon." He nodded and his face fell a little at the mention of it. Blood and Ashes, that had been terrible. He saw a few other people glaring their way at the mention of it. No one especially wanted to think on it, and didn't wans to hear others thinking on it either, apparently.

"I guess it was a bit boring for you though, being Saldaean."

Aven blinked his surprise. "Ah, well, actually I don't know a lot about Trollocs... shameful for a Saldaean, I know." He grinned ruefully in reply. "I..used to have a bit of a phobia and went out of my way to avoid even hearing about them. Childhood trauma. Managed to avoid it a good deal, especially since I grew up in a very southerly party of Saldea. But how did you know I was Saldean?" To his own ears his accent didn't sound very obvious, though he knew it wasn't quite the same as the more fluid speech of Tar Valon.

"Sorry about that." She indicated her ear. "I'm usually good with listening to dialects. An old hobby of mine." He smiled. "That's really quite remarkable."

"Were you here during the Feast?"

His face fell almost instantly as images appeared before him again. "Ah, yes." He bowed his head, cupping his hand in the other and studiously stretching his fingers. He seemed to huddle in on himself a bit, retracting inwards from the merriment around him. "It.. it was my first day here, actually."

He looked up again and her eyes were sympathetic. "Don't mean to pry if you don't want to speak about it. Most people have bad memories from that night, some more then others."

He nodded, and worked to regain his composure. Shrugging it off abruptly, he moved to dismiss its importance. "Anyhow, it helped me move past my old fear. I took that class because I need to know and be ready if it happens again." He nodded decisiveley once and took a decisive swig of his ale, decisively spilling some on his shirt.

"Ashes!" He frowned at his shirt, ale stain marring what was otherwise a lovely blue color, blackening the already dark color. He looked up again in alarm and covered his mouth. "Sorry, I should watch my language more." Light. He was just not doing well with first impressions. He looked like the Bumbling Soldier out of that tavern ballad. Nevira probably didn't know it... it was rather... well, bawdy, to say the least. Aven rubbed at it, trying to lessen it and mostly just making it worse. He gave up, slightly red about the cheeks, figuring it would dry sooner or later.

((OOC: Aven: Yay! Your posting again! *been missing you*))

Naturally Aven had gotten surprised at her knowing his origin. But he didn't comment on it right away. "Ah, well, actually I don't know a lot about Trollocs... shameful for a Saldaean, I know." He smiled at her. "I..used to have a bit of a phobia and went out of my way to avoid even hearing about them. Childhood trauma. Managed to avoid it a good deal, especially since I grew up in a very southerly party of Saldea. But how did you know I was Saldean?" At her explanation he just smiled though and told her he thought it was quite remarkable. Nevira didn't quite agree, but then again he might not have had the training she had had. Something in what he had said caught her ear though. Childhood trauma and shadowspawn in the same explanation brought back bad memories. Clearly she wasn't the only one with bad memories, but then again she knew that pretty well already, just not that Aven was one of those people.

The next thing Nevira found out about Aven was awful as well. He had been here during the Feast of the Dragon, but it wasn't only that, it had been his first day here. So much for the Towers making a good first impression. It had to have been awful. He didn't look to happy, huddled in on himself and looking rather sad, so when she told him she wasn't trying to pry he nodded. He tried to shrug it off, and cover it up with a positive comment: "Anyhow, it helped me move past my old fear. I took that class because I need to know and be ready if it happens again." and took a swig of ale, only to spill some on his shirt.

Aven cursed and Nevira couldn't help but to feel like laughing again. She tried to keep it back when he suddenly looked up looking rather alarmed. Covering his mouth he said "Sorry, I should watch my language more." He was blushing and Nevira couldn't hold her laughter back. Giggling Nevira shook her head, smiling as if what had happen was nothing and as normal as anything. "I'm no lady, Aven. I have heard curses far worse then ‘Ashes’ in my life." Smiling at him she picked up a handkerchief from her pocket while adding, "Said a few as well." and offered it to him. "You might be able to dry your shirt a little, wouldn't want to freeze to death on your way back to the Black Tower now would you?"

As she said that she heard a loud whistle and looked up. The Marshal general was standing up calling on the attention of all in the in. "Attention all Gaidin and everyone else," the man shouted "We have a new officer in the garrison!" Neviras eyes shot to the person that Robert was pointing at as he said "Come over and congratulate her!" Thrill inside and surprise on her face Nevira watched for a second as Myara was swamped with people and drawn up on the dance floor. Laughing softly Nevira hoped her friend was having a good time. Can't believe she hadn't told me before this. Who is she bonded to?

Realizing she had gotten completely distracted from Aven she looked back at him and smiled apologetically. "I'm sorry, she's a close friend of mine. From Saldaea actually." She didn't quite know what to say or do so she shrugged. "So do you dance?"

"You've decided to join us, I see? I had hoped you would find some time between the paperwork and soldiers to come this way."

Edeleas smiled and nodded, taking a careful sip from his mug. He channeled briefly, pulling up a chair for Myara and asking her to sit down. The bond between them reflected easy and...good will? Perhaps. It was really the first time Edeleas had gone out with his Warder. He had seen too many of his brothers and sisters to do the same, but it was himself now here, and he felt awkward to say the least. But he decided to get on the point; there was nothing to be ashamed of in front of Myara, after all that they'd been through and after everything she knew about him. He set his mug down on the counter.

"I was wondering if you would like to dance?" Edeleas grinned, looking at Myara. He felt funny, and he was sure it was flitting across the bond, this light tickling feeling he felt, for Myara had started to smile at him too. "I daresay my skills have rusted, but a good jig never fails to awaken whatever talent on dancing I may have, or used to have." He took an other careful sip from his ale before offering his hand to Myara.

He was here to enjoy, and for the first time in his life, Edeleas felt like he could forget everything that evening - the murders, the Great Lord, his being Dreadlord, the murders he was yet to commit.

Myara gave a bit of a grin as the chair was pulled over for her, accepting it and taking a seat with Edeleas, feeling something she had never shared before with him. It was almost as if there was a relaxed feeling, something different than she'd felt over the past days since their return to Tar Valon.

"I was wondering if you would like to dance?" She tilted her head slightly, surprised by the question a bit. Perhaps, just this one evening, she'd get to see a hint of what Edeleas was truly like, behind what she had already come to know of him. "I daresay my skills have rusted, but a good jig never fails to awaken whatever talent on dancing I may have, or used to have." It was reassuring to hear how he felt of his skills, seeing as it had been months, or years, whatever time had passed since she had last danced, beyond being passed amongst the gaidin in celebration.

"Of course I'd like to dance with you," she replied with a smile, taking his hand and sliding from the seat she had just settled into. "I'm sure we can both remember the steps and make it a good one together, eh?" That same funny feeling that she'd felt between them was reflected back as she felt a bit of girlish excitement.

Robert had been listening as Erin had giving Myara all kinds of good advice about saving her money and investment, and it probably going in one ear and out the other, he thought to himself. Light knows at that age I wasn't interested in that stuff either. Or much, anyway. Truth be told, with the extensive family trading connections to Tear and all over the Westlands, he had grown up somewhat more aware of high finance and trading and such matters, but he had realized early on that he really didn't have the temperament or the aptitude for it and left it to advisers who did know what they were doing. And who are carefully watched, he amended. He raised his eyebrows when Myara excused herself for a moment and went over to the bar to talk with someone. Edeleas? he thought to himself, surprised. I didn't think he was the type to take a Warder. She must have certainly impressed him on the ride up to Fal Dara and back. He didn't know Edeleas very well, their duties did not bring them into contact very much. This is going to be interesting, he mused as he took another sip of wine.

((ooc: somewhat! I keep going off and on as stuff happens. but I lurve this post. ^_^ ))

He was still blotting furiously at his shirt when Nevira laughed at him. Aven sighed. He must have been a comic figure, so he smiled back. "I'm no lady, Aven. I have heard curses far worse then ‘Ashes’ in my life." She smiled, then contuned with, "Said a few as well." He should have figured. Maybe she really did know the "Bumbling Soldier" song... though he didn't feel like pressing his luck on that account. Nevira handed him her handkerchief which he gratefully but sheepishly accepted. "You might be able to dry your shirt a little, wouldn't want to freeze to death on your way back to the Black Tower now would you?"

Suddenly they were interrupted as a large, impressive looking man, presumably a gaidin of some kind, stood up and made an announcement about a new officer. Nevira's face lit up and she laughed for joy. ......Light she was pretty.

She turned back to him and he snapped out of his reverie. She smiled apologetically for getting so instantly distracted, not that he minded or cared. "I'm sorry, she's a close friend of mine. From Saldaea actually." Nevira gave a shrug and Aven smiled. "How nice." He wasn't sure what to say exactly and was ready to lapse into an uncomfortable silence when Nevira rescued him.

"So do you dance?"

His face lit up. "Poorly at best, but I love to dance." His smile was wide and excited. Aven had never been able to dance half as often as he wanted to dance in Saldea. Nothing like a city of Tar Valon's size for a good party. He jumped up, pulling her with him onto the dance floor, and they were immediately swept into the laughing, swirling crowd.

"Of course I'd like to dance with you," Myara replied with a smile, taking his hand and sliding from the seat she had just settled into. "I'm sure we can both remember the steps and make it a good one together, eh?"

Edeleas smiled and led the way to the dance floor, Myara's hand in his. He felt amusement at the myriad of feelings flitting across the bond. It was strange and refreshing to feel these sort of emotions instead of just frustration, annoyance and anxiety. A new music had started up, something not too fast but altogether not too slow - just the perfect one. Edeleas strained his head to remember what were the steps with this song. Of course he'd danced to the tune when he had been younger, back in Cairhien.

The first spin came. Edeleas was smiling. He wanted to laugh, but couldn't. There was a flash of regret and rage through the bond, and he quickly gave an apologetic nod of his head. "Sometimes you lose things that may seem so trivial but are actually half of your life." He sighed. Now they moved to a light jig. "My memory serves me better. I remember this dance. I last performed it for my father in a family ball when I was twelve."

Myara followed Edeleas' lead both from their seats into the crowd of dancing people and through the steps of the first dance. It was something vaguely familiar, yet it felt as if years had passed since she last took the time to dance. Her face was crossed with a bright smile, a mirror of the emotions she felt through the bond, and shared with Edeleas in return.

She saw the entire room whirl about her they moved, just after the new song had started, and then an odd feeling that caused her smile to fade a moment. A curious look slipped through for a moment, smoothed quickly as he spoke. She gave him a look of empathy, knowing there was much she'd wish to say, but now was not the proper time or place, too many people.

The music shifted, and her feet followed Edeleas' into a jig, a fun dance for an evening such as this, drawing more pairs onto the floor to join those who were already gathered. Myara looked to Edeleas, her smile returned as she replied, "Twelve.. that feels as if it's decades in the past." Myrik, she pictured her older brother, what would you say to this sight? "Though, if I had a drink, I'd toast instead to the decades still to come!"

Clearly asking if Aven danced made him forgive her for having gotten distracted a moment ago. His face lit up like a lamp. "Poorly at best, but I love to dance." He said and his face was so wide Nevira couldn't help but to smile back. Suddenly he jumped up and pulled her up on the dance floor, something she had been ready to do so it came as no surprise. Nevira had only danced once since coming to Tar Valon and she had missed it greatly. The last time had been at the Ball which naturally had ended in disaster. She was glad though that she and Res had sorted things out. She loved him to much to not have brought up what she did and if he would have acted differently. Well. She guessed she wouldn't have been here then. Resolute was why Nevira wanted to become a Gaidar. If he no longer wanted her she could just as well leave and do something more useful with her life. With all things she had learned in the Towers she certainly knew enough to do pretty much what ever she wanted with it should it come to that.

The music was lively and fun and reminded her a lot about the taverns back in Cairhien as well as the menagerie. Music like this, people music was the major amount of music that had been in her life prior to Arvances death. Sure she had heard other types of music, the recited gleemans tales and all that, but it was only randomly and rarely she had ever seen a gleeman. Bareth and Arvance had made up for it back then though. They loved making up stories and scare Nevira about the silliest things, things that would never scare her now when she knew the world far better.

The music shifted into a jig and Nevira smiled up at Aven as they twirled across the floor. Dancing was fun and doing it with someone who enjoyed it was just great. Aven seemed to be enjoying himself as well. As they passed an other couple, both couples twirling the other girl stumbled into Nevira. Nevira would normally, standing up right, have been able to take that nudge, but like this, she in turn lost her balance and fell towards Aven before she could yet again regain her balance. She looked up at Aven as soon as she had with an apologetic look on her face. Speaking wouldn't work as the music here was to loud. They had been dancing for quite a while already and Nevira felt a little short of breath so she gestured for the table they had sat by earlier. It would be nice with something to drink as well as catching her breath, dancing was so much more different then fighting, and still so similar. And fighting was something she spent most of her days doing, today included.

Back at the table Nevira decided it was best to apologize. "I'm sorry about that. I usually have better balance." She pushed her hair back behind her ear and shoulder before sitting down again. "It was fun though, haven't danced in years except... during the ball." She chose not to mention anything even remotely close to the word Dragon this time. She wouldn't want anyone to get angry, or for Aven to get to uncomfortable with her. "The last time before that was when my brother was still alive." Her lips curled in a half smile as she said the last as it was still both making her sad and happy to think about her old family, both of them. "Do you have any siblings? Or other family back home?"