An Unintended Lesson

[Calina Taborwin]

Calina Taborwin moved gracefully through the halls of the White Tower. Silence trailed after her, an unusual thing for a woman with a penchant for surrounding herself with followers. Her observant gaze passed over servants, Novices, Accepted, and Aes Sedai, seeing none of them. Their eyes fell on her, of course. They usually did. Calina would normally try to glean some meaning from their movements but for the moment her mind was troubled and preoccupied.

She was thinking about her first days in the Tower.

Calina's life before the White Tower was still a painfully clear recollection, but those first days in the Tower were seared into her memory. Taken from her home, from family, and from the Game and everything else she'd ever known. Those days had been...trying. They were also necessary, in hindsight, but they also were the reason for her current predicament.

These reminiscences weren't pointless. Calina had more control of herself than that. Her past actions and reputation were still an issue for many of the older and more influential Aes Sedai. Combined with her unexpected rise to Sitter, resentments were making her work more difficult. Katreine needed the Tower united behind her; she could not do that if one of her closest allies courted controversy.

So today's meeting was special, and she had prepared for the occasion as best she could. Zamira Dagaron was a prominent Green with a reputation for bravery, cunning, and skill even in an Ajah where such traits were prized. She was also one of Calina's few equals in Power, and old enough to have been Aes Sedai when Calina was first brought to the Tower for judgement. And, most importantly, she'd been one of the few friendly faces Calina had seen in the Tower in those early days. She had often made her presence known during trips back to the Tower after being Calina had attained the shawl. Zamira was a perfect Sister to paper over some of Calina's weaknesses. Securing her cooperation would be a coup and, hopefully, shake up the recalcitrant Greens and Reds.

The meeting was an informal one, of course. Calina didn't trap her Sisters with formality unless the circumstances called for it, and Calina knew such a tactic would never work on Zamira Dagaron. Still, Calina had dressed to impress; as she recalled, Zamira was never particularly modest, either. Her Taraboner gown was one of the more daring in her wardrobe. Thin gray silk hugged her tightly, emphasizing her abundant curves. The neckline was precariously, almost scandalously low, with golden embroidery along the top and an image of the sun on her breast. She wore a complementary silver choker with gold scrollwork around her neck, dangling gold earrings, and her kesiera. A translucent half-veil completed the ensemble, framing her pale blue eyes between it and her dark locks. She would not go into a meeting with Zamira outmatched. As she passed into the section of the Tower with the Green apartments Calina attracted slightly less attention than usual. Greens tended to be more...expressive, in their dress, leaving Calina more or less in place.

Calina shook away the memories. The Greens apartments were scarcely populated, with the current issues in the Borderlands, but it wouldn't do to let her guard drop. She had arrived. The door to Zamira's apartment beckoned. Calina approached and rapped thrice, softly.

"Dear Sister, if you have a moment? Calina Taborwin seeks your company."

[Zamira Dagaron]

The ever-increasing turbulent events within the Borderlands kept most of her sisters occupied and the Green Ajah Quarters almost deadly silent. It was an eerie stillness yet not an unfamiliar one. Zamira herself had returned to Tar Valon only two days ago from Saldaea. There had been a swell in trolloc attacks and Myrddraal raids there since she and Avyanna had joined a circle of 13 and reopened the Bore. It always amused her when she'd assist the light in its frivolous attempts to push back the Blight, especially when it cost innocent lives. Aes Sedai, Warders, and Asha'man alike fell like pawns on a chess board and their bloodied, lifeless corpses were scintillating for her. Every blow to the light, regardless of how big or small, worked in favor of the dark. Still, it felt refreshing to be back at the White Tower and secluded within the confines of her own apartment. She still had a few last details to smooth out for a very special project, of her own device, that needed her attention. And once Zamira worked out how those last two pieces fell into place, the plan would finally be implemented... Her victory was so close that she could almost taste it.

As the Head of the Green Ajah fantasized over what that victory meant for her, there came a trio of soft taps to her door followed by a familiar voice: Calina Taborwin's. Though she disliked stepping back from her scheming, a smile still spread across the woman's face. She had taken an interest in the Gray Sitter almost immediately upon her arrival to the White Tower. She was a
Cairhienin woman whose strength in the One Power matched her own, and in such a balanced manner at that. It also didn't hurt that Calina came from a trying family situation that had made her a bit of an outsider at the Tower. If Zamira could play upon the right emotions enough and guide her, she felt confident that she'd be able to turn the Sitter. But such an approach demanded to transpire with care and time so as not to expose herself as a member of the Black Ajah to the wrong source. So with that knowledge, she collected the papers, maps, and letters upon her desk and hid them away into a concealed compartment before exiting her bedroom to go open her door.

"Calina Sedai, how thoughtful of you to pay me a visit."

She gestured for the woman to enter with a warm and friendly smile. The reports from her inner network of Calina's meetings had reached her some time ago hence she knew full well why the Gray Sitter had come. Usually, she'd brew a pot of tea, sit down, and let her fellow Aes Sedai Sister present her case but Zamira was still imbued with a burning thrive for combat from her trip. A delicious prospect crossed her thoughts, one Calina would never have seen coming. Then like a lioness eyeing its prey, Zamira circled Calina as her hands seamlessly caressed her guest's curves through the thin gray silk that hung to them.

"Oh dear,... This will not do at all, though it is quite a ravishing gown sister. How have none of the Gaidin thrown themselves at you for the chance to become your Warder?" inquired Zamira as she continued to intimately size up Calina's measurements. "Wait here a moment." added the Green before disappearing into her bedroom.

Zamira's apartment was beyond elegant in its layout and decorations. Intricate designs were etched into the wood paneling which encompassed the walls and was completed with crown molding. The white fabric furniture was pleasantly placed around a stone fireplace as a large crystal chandelier hung in the middle. There were two couches, two chairs, two end tables, and a coffee table that had a centerpiece of red roses on it. Giant white curtains were pushed open to the sides of two large windows that sat behind one of the couches. There was the lightest scent of sage burning from incense on the fireplace and an ornate mirror hung above it creating the illusion that the room was larger than it actually was. Overall, Zamira's space was far warmer and more inviting than most would expect of the fierce Green yet it still suited her lavish style.

After a few minutes of digging around in her closet, Zamira finally returned to the main area of her apartment carrying a set of clothes. She held a pair of black britches, a white blouse, a brocaded gray under-bust corset with straps, and a long silk gray ribbon. Zamira herself wore something similar except her corset was a deep red over-bust with a black rose brocade. Her corset also came with a collar around the back and a tail. She also had her hair braided into a bun and wore a pair of knee-high black suede boots. She set the folded pieces into Calina's arms with a smirk.

"Now hurry and get changed, dear. If you wish to discuss Tower politics and alliances with me then it shall be done so on my terms."

(Zamira's corset: i.pinimg.com/originals/1a/02/f6/1a02f6de53b12188284e2ca705bbc468.jpg )

[Calina Taborwin]

Of course, Zamira Sedai. It's been too long. Thank you for inviting me in." Calina was going through her introduction as Zamira opened the door, coaching herself through it. She was in control. She was ready.

"Calina Sedai, how thoughtful of you to pay me a visit."

Calina entered the older woman's apartments, lips quirked in a smile.

"Of course, Zamira Sedai. It's been too long. Thank you--" she broke off as Zamira began to circle around her, eyes predatory. "Wh--"

She was cut off again as she felt Zamira's hands on her through the thin silk of her dress. The taller woman's touch was questing, invasive, and Calina stiffened under it. By some inner well of control, she was able to keep her face bland.

"Oh dear,... This will not do at all, though it is quite a ravishing gown sister. How have none of the Gaidin thrown themselves at you for the chance to become your Warder?"

Calina didn't answer, Zamira's hands still on her, at her waist, her hips, and elsewhere. Some men had, of course, but while she enjoyed the attention she wasn't fond of most martial types. That, and a strange chord of Cairhienin modesty clung to her in spite of all evidence to the contrary. When she'd told men to leave her alone, they left her alone. In the wake of Zamira, however, Calina was positively befuddled.

"Wait here a moment."

Calina watched, allowing her jaw to drop slightly as Zamira left the room. What in the Light is happening? She'd been in the apartments for a minute at best and already the entire meeting had unnervingly departed from plan. She could hear Zamira in the other room, and she took a second to compose herself. A glance at the mirror confirmed that a faint blush had risen to her cheeks, and with long instilled Aes Sedai calm she smoothed it and all other features away. She settled herself onto one of the couches gracefully, trying to puzzle through how to seize back control of the discussion. Just what is wrong with my gown?

Calina began to have an inkling when Zamira returned. The Green was dressed immaculately, as always, but in a style that was entirely her own. Calina raised an eyebrow, it was certainly nothing she would wear...and yet the bundle in Zamira's arms indicated exactly the opposite. She stood smoothly, ready to break in, but she had no time as Zamira placed the bundle in her arms.

"Now hurry and get changed, dear. If you wish to discuss Tower politics and alliances with me then it shall be done so on my terms."

Calina stood there, bundle in hand for a moment. Hesitated. How had Zamira known, and was she bluffing? She was excellent at reading people, though, and Zamira seemed confident to the point of boredom that Calina would do as asked. So far as the Green was concerned, it was just a matter of moments. A surge of indignation rose through her. How dare Zamira order Calina around like this? They were equal in the Power, and Calina a Sitter besides. If anyone should be directing the conversation, it should be her. And yet...if she refused, she sensed that all discussion would be off the table. The meeting would end, and Calina would gain nothing. Katreine would gain nothing. The thought flashed through her head as she stood there frozen a moment longer. Then she plastered a smile to her face and nodded.

"Of course, Sister. I'll be but a moment."

She excused herself from the sitting room, bundle in hand, entering Zamira's bedroom. What am I doing? She was getting changed. For some reason. She stripped to the extremely thin shift she wore beneath the dress (even tighter than the dress, by necessity) and set about trying to assemble the outfit. The britches and blouse were easy enough to figure out. Unfortunately, while Calina and Zamira were similar in build proportionally, the Green was the significantly taller of the two. Calina felt (and looked) like a younger sister raiding an older's wardrobe. The tight-fitting brocaded corset was helpful for the top, at least; she tucked the sleeves back to keep her hands free. The britches she tightened as best she could and cuffed the legs up. Well, this is a mess. From looking her best to looking like a child trying to emulate Zamira. You must regain control Calina. Patience and confidence.

So, forcing her lips up into a smile, Calina emerged clad in Zamira's clothes. She was still fastening her hair back with the grey ribbon Zamira had provided. Her jewelry now looked quite out of place.

"I'll happily meet your terms, Zamira Sedai, but I confess I'm not certain what they are. Did you intend to go for a ride today, perhaps?"

[Zamira Dagaron]

Despite the lack of facial expressions to suggest otherwise, Zamira could sense Calina's surprise and discomfort when she'd intimately felt the fellow Aes Sedai up. It always delighted her to catch others off guard or keep their head spinning with too many questions to ever puzzle out her agenda. She oozed confidence, dominance, and intuition unlike any other. But that was how she operated, changing the game in such a manner that always favored her. She was the house and as everyone knows, the house always wins. Though Calina Taborwin served as quite the formidable opponent. Still, as equal in power as she was to Zamira, the elder Aes Sedai maintained control with ease and mystery.

"Of course, Sister. I'll be but a moment."

"Take all the time you need Calina Sedai." remarked Zamira with a friendly smile.

Zamira glided over to one of her armchairs before sitting herself down into it. Her eyes gleamed with delight as she waited with remarkable patience. She rarely had opportunities such as this fall into her lap hence the Green hardly could let this one slip through her fingers. By all rights, the younger Aes Sedai should have had the upper hand but the Head of Green was far too clever. Calina was, after all, just as stubborn as she was which meant that the woman would do anything Zamira asked if she believed that it would favor her cause to unify the Tower. So as the shorter female exited her bedchamber resembling that of a child yet to grow into their clothes, it took a well-practiced control on her part to refrain from laughing. She had tried to choose pieces that were smaller on herself. Unfortunately, Zamira had seven inches on Calina leaving the poor Gray Sitter to appear immature within the outfit.

"Not quite Sister." replied the Head of the Green Ajah.

Firmly taking Calina by the hand, Zamira led the woman down the spiraling staircase of the Green Ajah Quarters. She took her out the back entrance that let out almost straight into the Warder training yard. Since hers was nicknamed the 'Battle Ajah', it was hardly surprising to find her sisters within the yard practicing alongside the Gaidin. Being able to defend yourself without the use of the One Power was often the difference between life and death for a Green. Her past had burned a determination to always be strong into her. Therefore she'd never looked down her nose upon obtaining martial skills as some sisters did. And as far as she knew, Calina Taborwin had never learned of such things... Zamira was about to change that.

"If you intend to gain my ear as well as my support Calina Sedai then today you shall be my student. A sister of the light should always be able to defend herself. Relying on her strength in the One Power alone is both cocky and unwise. Especially if that sister does not possess a Warder to protect her flank."

Zamira removed a Bo staff from a wooden crate filled with weapons and tossed it to Calina caring little if the woman would be able to catch it or not. Then she fetched one out for herself.

"For every time I knock you down and you stand again to your feet, I will grant you 5 minutes to state your case uninterrupted. The longer you are able to last, the longer you'll have my attention. Do you agree to these terms Sister?"

[Calina Taborwin]

Zamira had her by the hand just as soon as Calina finished tying her hair back. The Green’s grip was forceful and the whirlwind that was Zamira had them out of the room before Calina could blink. What under the Light am I doing? She had completely lost control of the situation; Zamira was leading her down and out of the Greens’ apartments by the hand. Calina couldn’t free her hand from Zamira’s grip without forcing a scene that would derail any negotiations. Nor could she match the taller woman’s lengthy stride, forcing Calina to hurry along slightly behind Zamira. It only strengthened the image of immaturity she’d unknowingly acquired after switching to Zamira’s ill-fitting outfit.

The loss of control was unnerving. Most of Calina’s life had been built on acquiring or exploiting control of her situation. She fundamentally needed control. The lack of it brought back dangerous memories. Relax, Calina. She still had the chance to salvage everything. Zamira was toying with her, that much was obvious. If Calina could play her game and earn the Green’s respect (or at least her interest) it would all be worthwhile.

Still. This was not something to be celebrated. Zamira’s escort through the halls of the Tower drew eyes, and every glance in her direction damaged a presentation Calina had worked hard to cultivate. She felt a surge of hope that she wouldn’t be recognized in such an outfit...but there was slim chance of that with the kesiera on her forehead. Indignant anger boiled; she would pay Zamira back for this someday.

Her heart dropped as they exited the Tower and approached the training grounds. Zamira’s plan was obvious and Calina had been rashly optimistic in hoping for some other possibility. Dragged onto the grounds, surrounded by gaidin, Green sisters, and some others, Calina knew this was a story that would travel. Blood and bloody ashes.

“If you intend to gain my ear as well as my support Calina Sedai then today you shall be my student. A sister of the light should always be able to defend herself. Relying on her strength in the One Power alone is both cocky and unwise. Especially if that sister does not possess a Warder to protect her flank.”

That was a familiar story, one Calina had ignored before. What need had she of someone to protect her flank? The dangers she faced were political, not physical. Any physical threat could be met with the Power. Except this one. The tossed staff was a surprise that Calina fumbled. One end bounced off the dirt before she could grab the other with both hands. The weapon was strange and unwieldy.

"For every time I knock you down and you stand again to your feet, I will grant you 5 minutes to state your case uninterrupted. The longer you are able to last, the longer you'll have my attention. Do you agree to these terms Calina Sedai?"


She didn’t have a choice. Calina needed Zamira’s support, and she needed to get it without destroying her reputation. One hand rose, first to her choker then to her kesiera, the other still on the staff. A nervous habit, rarely exercised. How bad could it be?

“Of course, Zamira Sedai. One should always strive to learn, and I can think of few better teachers. I’m so glad you’ve agreed to take the time to entertain my whim.”

Her voice was bright and cheery, expression perfectly practiced. Giving the implication that this mess was, somehow, her idea would help buffer her reputation. By the Light if Kat or Veira hear of this I’ll never live it down.

[Zamira Dagaron]

Every inch of Calina's tense body informed Zamira that the Gray Sitter was quite uncomfortable with her current situation. Much like herself, Calina Taborwin thrived only when she was in control. As an equal to her in the One Power, and a Sitter besides, made Calina formidable but she lacked Zamira's ferocity and spirit. Which made dragging the woman around the White Tower as if she were a misbehaved child such a gleeful experience. Maneuvering in unpredictable patterns and usurping control were behavioral aspects in which she lived. And even as Calina attempted to act as if this whole scenario had been of her own making, Zamira couldn't resist the urge to smirk. The poor thing didn't have a clue what she was getting herself into.

“Good. Then we shall begin.” Zamira circled Calina as she attentively observed every inch of the other woman much like an officer would a cadet. Her chocolate gaze reflected a stern judgment of her adversary as she began. “First Calina Sedai, it is vital that you never lock your knees. Although a warrior always should desire to maintain a firm stance, they also must be ready to either strike or defend themselves,” remarked Zamira in a flat yet intimidating tone. Zamira was swift as a fox as she used her own Bo staff to strike the back of Calina's knees. It was a soft enough wallop to prevent her opponent from falling over but a forceful enough blow to not only sting but also leave a mark.

“Second, it is important to grip your staff out in front of you so that the weapon is parallel with the ground. This is your beginning stance. You'll want to keep your right hand facing up and your left hand facing down. Also, you must be sure to break the Bo staff into thirds with your hand placements.” Zamira shifted Calina's hands into the proper positions. The Green Aes Sedai then struck the tops of Calina's knuckles in the same manner she had the girl's knees. Once again she maneuvered around her opponent akin to that of a hungry lioness sizing up her prey. Satisfied with Calina's stance, Zamira took up her position in front of the girl in order to demonstrate the first move she intended to teach.

“I shall now demonstrate the overhead front strike for you while describing my actions. I expect you to pay very close attention Sister.” Zamira shifted her own body into the stance which Calina stood. And then similar to that of a graceful dancer, her body began to move in a slow fluid motion that matched her verbal depictions.

“First, you are going to bring up your right knee as this will be the knee that will land in what's called the long front stance. As you bring your knee up, you will prepare the Bo on your right shoulder as you ensure that it's still parallel to the ground. You do this to line up the end of your Bo with your striking point. You are going to step forward as you're completing your strike.”

The Green Ajah Sister performed an overhead front strike in slow motion, “Notice what happened there. The back tip of the Bo travels across and down to hit the target you've set up for yourself. As you strike, you don't keep your hands in thirds but instead, you'll take your right hand and twist it. You are twisting it outward while your left-hand slides down to your hip as you perform the strike.” Once again, Zamira performed the move slowly for the benefit of her 'student'.

“You want to finish in that long front stance I referred to earlier while keeping the Bo at an angle that is not too high or too low. Your elbow should be out slightly with your eyes focused forward on your target. Which for this demonstration, you shall act as though the target is at the same height as your nose.” For a third time, Zamira executed the move but this time she did so much faster and with an intense ferocity.

“Now show me that you've been paying attention Calina Sedai. Demonstrate an overhead front strike for me.”

[Calina Taborwin]

Calina stood ramrod straight as Zamira circled her, holding the unfamiliar staff in both hands. Zamira's clothing was uncomfortable, the sun beat down on them, and for once Calina was hard-pressed to maintain her concentration. Light, what a mess. For just a moment she lost sight of Zamira, then a second later Calina yelped loudly and jumped forward as the Green's staff cracked across the back of her knees. That had hurt. Physical pain was not something to which Calina was accustomed. A flush crawled up her face, concentration totally shattered now, but Zamira acted as though nothing had happened and continued a lesson. Blasted fool! Her eyes blazed dangerously but Calina settled as Zamira continued the lesson, the Green adjusting her grip before wrapping her across the knuckles as well. This time Calina only stared balefully at Zamira, but her eyes watering at the sudden stinging pain surely cut down on how effective her glare could possibly be.

The temptation to reach for saidar was almost uncontrollable, but somehow Calina restrained herself. Control, Calina. Control. She wouldn't be baited or trapped by Zamira Dagaron.

Instead, she watched Zamira's demonstration intently, burning the words into her mind. The move didn't seem difficult? Knee up, step forward, staff down. Unfortunately, her usual supreme sense of confidence was feeling particularly absent, but Calina intended to supplement it with anger.

It didn't help that the last strike at full speed made Zamira seem impossibly fast and graceful. Calina certainly knew the value of grace, but she'd never been athletically inclined.

“Now show me that you've been paying attention Calina Sedai. Demonstrate an overhead front strike for me.”

Still, by the time Zamira invited her to demonstrate Calina's flush had faded and she was able to respond with a smile that didn't reach her eyes.

"Of course, Zamira Sedai."

Calina took a deep breath, taking up the stance Zamira had showed her and arranging her hands carefully on the staff. She forced every distraction out of her mind, very carefully not considering how similar the twinned outfits made her appear to Zamira, or at least to a smaller, less intimidating version of her.

She raised her leg and brought it up to her knee as she brought the staff up to her shoulder. The motion was a bit jerky, too slow then too fast as Calina tried to judge her own body's movements for the first time in her life. Still, the staff placement was correct. Then she brought the staff down much more smoothly, stopping it slightly below her nose as her eyes inadvertently locked onto Zamira instead of the 'target.' Her hands didn't quite line up as well; apparently twisting her wrist was a bit more complicated than she'd expected, and sliding the other hand down was a bit clumsier than she'd expected as well.

This wasn't going to be easy at all.

[Zamira Dagaron]

A dance. That was a far kinder manner of describing what Zamira's 'training session' with Calina amounted to. Every step was fluid, controlled, and executed with a flair all while she maintained a firm grip on retaining the lead position. She dictated the moves, orchestrating the choreography with ease. Manipulation, ferocity, and drive were her strengths. Then again her harsh personality often collided with other Aes Sedai, especially the Keeper of the Chronicles Veira. A fact that she'd often contemplated solutions to. After all, Zamira hardly needed the Amyrlin's close confidante peering too closely into her affairs... But she already had a solution for that, one that would serve both her cause and lord well. Still, that was neither here or now, therefore, she focused herself back in on the lesson at hand and how she could potentially use this proposition of Cal's to eventually position herself into Katreine's good graces.

“Of course, Zamira Sedai.”

Observing Calina Taborwin attempt an overhead front strike felt far more akin to watching a toddler first learning how to walk. It was clumsy, unbalanced, and uncoordinated. If Zamira believed she could actually spend a whole day training the Grey Sitter, she would. But as the current situation stood, it was in her best interests not to push Calina too hard or put the woman off the real reason she'd sought Zamira out. It was logical to shift the situation not only to keep her opponent second guessing Zamira's every action but also to keep her leading role in their dance. Then again, one more run through of the move wouldn't hurt... Well not her at least.

With a firm grip of her staff, she thrust the weapon to the back of Calina's knees in a harsh blow. A quick maneuvered twist of the weapon between her hands brought a sweep to the Grey's legs knocking her onto her back.

“Again Calina Sedai.” chided Zamira in an orotund voice. “But this time funnel all of the anger I know you're currently bottling up inside towards me into the staff. At which point you shall direct it at a practice dummy.”

She assisted 'her student' up again before the Green Ajah Sister walked over to one of the practice dummies, picked it up, and then carried it back before setting it up in front of Calina. Zamira positioned herself behind Cal once again as she assisted her in the hand placements and beginning stance she required. As if she were a doll or a lump of clay, the Green Ajah Sister molded every inch of Calina's body into place.

“It is important to remember that you must retain fluid motion but also to keep eye contact with your target.”

She would occasionally step back to observe her work then step back in to readjust whatever she was unsatisfied with until the woman was exactly how Zamira wanted her. At which point, Zamira moved away before imparting her last morsel of advice.

“Breathe, concentrate, and focus that anger. You can do this Calina Sedai, I have faith in you.”

[Calina Taborwin]

This wasn't going to be easy at all.

The thought had scarcely crossed her mind when Zamira's staff caught her behind the knees, sending shooting pain through her legs. In a fluid motion Zamira had twisted the staff and pulled Calina's legs out from under her, and Calina hit the ground hard. It happened in under a second. From Calina's perspective she had been standing, staff in hand, then suddenly on the ground covered in the dirt of the training yard, with a sharp pain in her rear where she'd hit the ground. Shock stilled her for a moment and allowed her to retain some control; rather than cry or curse or embrace saidar she just inhaled deeply and let the pain roll over her.

The last time she'd had to deal with physical pain, she'd been a novice sent to the Mistress of Novices. She'd expected to never have to deal with anything like that again. Calm washed over her, but the back of her mind seethed. Her eyes sought out Zamira, standing above her with a sense of...gloating? Projection, perhaps, but the bitter humiliation Calina was suffering didn't leave her feeling generous.

“Again Calina Sedai. But this time funnel all of the anger I know you're currently bottling up inside towards me into the staff. At which point you shall direct it at a practice dummy.”

She reached a hand down to Calina, and after taking a moment to grab her staff Calina accepted her hand and stood. The rage slowed to a simmer, a faint tinge of heat in Calina's otherwise perfect serenity.

"My thanks, Zamira Sedai," Calina said, her pale eyes glittering dangerously. She wore a bland, placating smile, but her eyes promised that this wasn't over. She allowed Zamira to position her hands and her stance, allowing her mind to settle, compartmentalize. Calina still had a job to do, and she was a fast learner.

When Zamira stepped back, Calina almost started at her final comment. She shot a searching gaze at the Green, wondering, thinking, but she finally turned back to the training dummy. She lifted the staff as Zamira had shown her, locked her eyes on the dummy, and lashed out with the same sort of focus she used when wielding the Power. The blow wasn't perfect, but it was significantly better than her first attempt; she kept her hands where they should be, for one. It was a marked improvement for her, though her physical strength wasn't enough to do more than slightly displace the dummy. Calina let out a breath and grounded the staff before turning to look at Zamira again, raising an eyebrow. What next, Zamira Dagaron? This was, unfortunately, the Green’s performance, and Calina was just catching her footing.

[Zamira Dagaron]

How unfortunate it was that an Aes Sedai as powerful, determined, and so in control of her emotions as Calina Taborwin choose the Gray Ajah instead of the Green. She would have made a fine asset to her order, then again, Zamira was still convinced she could coax Calina into the Black Ajah. An order in which she cared far more about adding Sisters to than the Green. Even with her clear lack of self-defense training, for her first session, Calina had done considerably well. Not that Zamira made it appear that way. They were still in a dance, one which she had maintained control of since the beginning. But the time had come to allow her Sister to believe said control would finally shift into her favor. First, silver-tongued words were required to smooth over the testing she'd unwittingly put the woman across from her through.

“I am impressed Sister, you maintained your temper despite the painful strikes I have administered upon you several times. You have held yourself with pride during the entire duration. Such a feat could not have been an easy one dressed as my, albeit smaller, double. And on top of this, you managed to follow my directions to the best of your abilities. Your time in the White Tower has made you remarkably strong Calina Sedai. I apologize for embarrassing you in such a manner but I needed to know if I could push you over the edge or force you to give up. I failed miserably. That tells me this cause of yours is important and that you're willing to do whatever it takes to see it succeed. You would have made an amazing member of the Green Ajah Sister. Come, let us return to my chambers so that you may change back into your own attire, partake in a cup of soothing tea, and share what you came to me for.”

Zamira smiled towards Calina before she collected the woman's quarterstaff and returned it, along with her own, to the crate filled with staffs. With that sorted, the Green Sister led the way back across the training ground and through the entrance into the White Tower. She kept a steady stride as they moved through the stairwells and corridors which led back to her quarters. Calina had endured enough embarrassment for one day otherwise she'd have chosen a more leisurely pace. Once they were privately tucked away again there, Zamira gestured for the Gray Sitter to use her bedchamber to change within. As Calina did as much, she made quick work compiling a tray together with the fresh pot of tea Micajah kindly brewed in her absence, two teacups, a container of sugar, a bit of cake, cheese, and some bread.

She placed the tray upon her coffee table within her living area where she'd allow Calina to pitch her proposal. A proposal in which the Black Sister had an inkling that she knew what it pertained to but she'd play ball regardless. After all, the Gray Sitter could provide her with useful information or even leverage which might be useful at a later junction. So when Calina exited her bedchamber once again wearing her dress, Zamira smiled and gestured for the Gray Sitter to come to sit across from her.

“The floor is all yours now Sister.”

[Calina Taborwin]

Silence reigned on the training grounds for a few moments following Calina's strike as the two Aes Sedai faced one another. Despite the embarrassment of the past few moments Calina refused to concede an inch, her expression the very picture of Aes Sedai serenity. She'd stumbled, so far, but in that moment Calina felt her footing stabilize. There was a slight sense of a wind changing, somehow...though Calina couldn't place it to any one shift in particular.

Zamira's not-quite-apologetic speech was precisely what Calina wanted to hear. An escape from this situation and a chance to gain some momentum of her own were exactly what she needed, and Calina handed back the staff with a magnanimous nod and only a hint of a smile. She felt a perverse fusion of anger and gratitude at the older woman, then they were returning to Zamira's chambers at a quicker clip than Calina had anticipated. The taller woman's longer strides required Calina to hurry, somewhat, in order to keep pace as they marched through the halls of the Tower. That was fine with her; the fewer people who saw her dressed in Zamira's attire, the better.

Their return to Zamira's chambers was a welcome relief, and as soon as it was polite Calina hurried into the bedchamber proper in order to change. The silk gown she wore was as good as a suit of armor after the costume from before. It was astonishing the difference a set of clothing tailored for oneself could make, and Calina relished in the change as she took down her hair once more.

When she returned to Zamira's sitting room Calina looked every inch herself: the provocative, confident Sitter who would be bested by no one.

“The floor is all yours now Sister.”

Calina smiled wryly and sat, inclining her head.

"Thank you, Sister."

She sounded perfectly sincere as she spooned some sugar into her teacup, mixing it thoroughly.

"I must thank you for that experience...it is not something with which I'm acquainted. I begin to see why you are so influential among your Ajah, however; you are bold and decisive, not to mention skilled. It speaks well of us to have you in the Tower."

Calina weighed her options now, pausing to take a sip of the tea. Her intention had been to play with Zamira as she did with most meetings such as this. To hedge and hem and pressure and persuade. After this session with Zamira, Calina wasn't sure that would work. Worse, Calina felt that it might backfire and discourage Zamira entirely. The woman was blunt and straightforward. Confusing as she might be, Calina had the sense that Zamira would not respond well to subtlety. Nothing for it, then. She set the teacup back down and straightened her skirts before raising her head to stare Zamira in the eye.

"I've come to you today to ask for your help. The Amyrlin Seat needs allies and support, in the Hall and elsewhere, and there are those I'm unable to sway thanks to my history. Where I've failed, I expect you could succeed. You are beloved by the Greens and respected elsewhere. There are those who would listen and obey Katreine din Ziago, should you be the one to speak on her behalf. The Amyrlin's ideas are new and strange, and Aes Sedai do not tolerate either well. But they are necessary, and the Tower must stand united in the days to come."

She spoke plainly, but her eyes were passionate and she leaned toward Zamira as she spoke. She let her anger fall aside to focus on this one chance to gain something of value from today's debacle.

[Zamira Dagaron]

“I must thank you for that experience...it is not something with which I'm acquainted. I begin to see why you are so influential among your Ajah, however; you are bold and decisive, not to mention skilled. It speaks well of us to have you in the Tower.”

Whether she was sincere or not, Calina's tone certainly gave the impression of her being as much. Zamira resisted the urge to smirk or to allow vanity to distract her. This was a battle of power, whether Calina realized as much or not, and for Zamira there was only the option of winning. A feat in which the Captain-General felt she'd already achieved. Still, it was important to not become cocky or count her victory just yet. Any prize can be snatched away if one was not vigilant. So even if her body language gave the illusion that she'd shifted control into Calina's court, nothing could be shorter from the truth.

What transpired next from the Sitter's lips was as satisfactory to Zamira as tasting a plump ripe strawberry for the first time. Every syllable rang within her ears, laying out an opportunity at her feet that was far too delicious to pass up. Despite having to play the role of an advocate of the Amyrlin's, Zamira would gain access to members of both Katreine's inner and outer circle. Under the facade of unity and strides forward, she could undermind those very goals. Silence, coupled with an unreadable expression, were the weapons she wielded at this moment. She picked up her teacup, enjoyed a refreshing sip, and then returned the item to its saucer. Her response required silver-tongued words hence those were exactly the kind she'd deliver.

“I see, well then Sister, let me reassure you that the embarrassment you've endured at my hand was not in vain. I am flattered you reflect so highly upon me, Calina Sedai, to approach me with such an important task. Though our Mother and I have never been close, I respect her vision for our future and admire her spirited dedication to improving relations with the Black Tower. I would be immensely honored to speak on her behalf with my fellow sisters of the White Tower.” A reassuring smile spread on her lips as she placed her hand on Calina's before continuing, “Now, If there is nothing more you wish to speak with me about, I have another rather important matter to attend to today.”

[Calina Taborwin]

Zamira bloody Dagaron took her sweet time in responding, but Calina kept her frustration in check. She had laid everything bare in this attempt, an experience nearly as uncomfortable as the pain she still felt from her experience in the Yard. This needed to succeed, now. The gamble had already taken far more capital than Calina had intended, and she would be dealing with the fallout for days yet, at best. Burn her for a fool, but why had she not simply refused to go with Zamira in the first place? It was all for this moment. It has to be enough. Calina watched Zamira take her sip, and with a wry amusement, Calina thought she saw something of herself in the vivacious, infuriating Green.

“I see, well then Sister, let me reassure you that the embarrassment you've endured at my hand was not in vain. I am flattered you reflect so highly upon me, Calina Sedai, to approach me with such an important task. Though our Mother and I have never been close, I respect her vision for our future and admire her spirited dedication to improving relations with the Black Tower. I would be immensely honored to speak on her behalf with my fellow sisters of the White Tower. Now, If there is nothing more you wish to speak with me about, I have another rather important matter to attend to today.”

Calina returned an empty smile at those words, but her heart soared. Not only had Zamira agreed, but she'd done so in a way that offered little room to demure. The Three Oaths bound Zamira as much as Calina; by phrasing her agreement in such a way, Calina had done it. Zamira was now a tool to be wielded by the Amrylin. Zamira bloody Dagaron was hers.

"No, Zamira. I believe I've finished my piece. Thank you for your time."

Calina stood, then, and though it didn't grant her much height she carried herself as though she were a giant. She moved to the door and smiled with a hint of an edge to it, turning to speak to Zamira before she left.

"I believe we will work well together, Zamira Dagaron. We are both women who control ourselves and through that, our surroundings. It's a rare skill. I'll get you a list of Sisters to approach and how to approach them within the next day or so. Together we'll do great things."

Calina opened the door and paused once more, throwing a parting jab back over her shoulder.

"Next time though, perhaps I can return the favor. I'm afraid I couldn't lend you any of my clothes, exactly, but I'm certain I can have my seamstress prepare something suitable if you'd like to branch away from corsets and pants."

Then she was gone, celebrating victory.

[Jenaroni]

This thread is now closed.