Log Date:Jan 25, 2000
Logged By:Theowyn
Location:Grand Hall, Palace, Caemlyn
Players:Aislynn, Kellian, Theowyn, Rio, Milton, & Inarin
Summary:Kellian is proclaimed the Captain-General and announced as Aislynn's older brother. Inarin informs the Queen of Illian's misguided support near the end of the scene, and Durnik's 'staying' with the Children.

Kellian comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Kellian has arrived.

Kellian stops to speak with the Guards at the entrance. His voice is quiet but firm.

Rio arrives in the grand hall, making her way across the marble floor with silent steps. Her silk skirt making the only noise, a slight swishing sound. She moves through the courtiers with a slight nod to those that she reconizes or those that owe her favors, until she finds a place near the throne, but off to the side where she can observe, but not be in the way of what the royalty has planned.

Milton comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Milton has arrived.

The young Queen arrives just a few seconds before Rio Sedai, and it is unclear from the wave of bended knees whether it is simply the Queen's presence that makes those gathered show their obeisance. Likely it is the Queen and the presence of not one--but two Aes Sedai. Aislynn strides purposefully up the middle of the room, and gracefully ascends the dais, smoothing her skirts before seating herself upon the Lion Throne.

Reynard has left.

Milton watches the young Queen from a distance. Perhaps taking notes on how it's done...or how it's not done.

Kellian remains near the entrance, studying those assembled here. Perhaps trying to decide how to best fit himself in among them..but in truth, ever wary, he is watching for trouble even here in the heart of the palace.

Casting a cold gaze about those assembled, Aislynn sits languidly upon her Throne, her eyes finally meeting Kellian.

The First Prince has been standing near the throne as Aislynn and the others enter. He has his head slightly bowed downward as Aislynn passes, though nods lightly as she sits before standing to attention. Theowyn's expression shows the years of training in the Tower, his eyes nearly a reflection of Aislynn's own.

"Captain Kellian Devail....Please approach the Throne. It is for you that we have assembled thus," Aislynn intones, in a pleasant voice that belies her outwardly icy demeanor.

Milton leans back. Here it comes. What an odd moment to be here, in this place, watching this happen

Kellian regards the young Queen across the distance. He has no tower training, as yet, but he can keep his cool with the best of them. He raises his brow at this pronouncement. He steps forward and moves across the red carpet, then finally falls to one knee before the throne. "Your Majesty." He won't grant himself a smile.

Inarin comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Inarin has arrived.

And the doors swing open once again. Being shown inside by a servant or two is Inarin, who's look irritable. An irritable whitecloak, most likely, is not a good thing.

Continuing to coolly appraise Kellian, though with an expression akin to pride lingering within the depths of that gaze, Aislynn rises from her throne as Kellian approaches. "Captain Kellian, and those gathered to witness this momentous occasion..." at this, she sweeps a glance about the room, and then returns to Kellian. "...I am sure you are all well aware of the events that have taken place in Caemlyn of late--involving namely the former Captain-General, Lord Durnik." Considering how angry she is at the man, it is surprising that she even grants him his given honorific.

Milton licks his lips. This is great!

While the Aes Sedai had been watching Kellian present himself to the throne, she doesn't miss then entrance of the Child of Light, coming into the great hall like an univited beggar. She directs a single cool glance his way, seems to note the number of guards that are near him and then pointedly turns her attention back to the Queen. When Aislynn speaks of Durnik, the young Aes Sedai nods. Although, there is little anger to be found in Rio.

Kellian glances back as the door open again. Eyes narrow ever so faintly. Then he turns his attention back to the Queen.

Theowyn continues to stand in attention, his eyes cooly tracing over Inarin as he enters. There's a slight flicker in his eyes before he begins to focus on Kellian once more. He does not even spare a nod, Theowyn's agreement all too understood.

Inarin waits quietly over by the door, shaking his head at one of the servants. He flexes his hands inside his gauntlets quietly, trying to take deep, calming breaths.

As the Queen continues to speak--apparently not noticing the entrance of Inarin as yet--a soldier dressed in ceremonial uniform approaches the Throne deferentially, hanging back as the Queen finishes her speech. "Although it pains me to admit it publicly, Lord Durnik did not live up to my expectations of his command. He made decisions that were unsupportable." She finishes with iciness in her voice; hers is not to explain to -everyone- her reasoning behind her decisions: she is Queen, and that is enough. "Because of your valour in combat and your years of service to the Rose Crown and Lion Throne, your Queen asks you to take up the gauntlet that Lord Durnik so wastefully droped. I ask you to serve as Andor's new Captain-General."

Milton folds his arms in front of him.Watching Kellian receive his new rank. Just as it is supposed to be. Sure they may be Aes Sedai...but it seems that does not make them any less predictable. Perfect.

Kellian is moved by this certainly, but his voice is deferential to begin,"I will serve you well, Aislynn. I accept this duty and responsiblity to Andor and to you. In these difficult times I hope that I bring the Guard back to its former glory and strength and heal the wounds that have split Andor in these dark weeks. The people will believe in us again, and when we in the Guard oath that we stand in defense of the Lion Crown with our last breath, it will carry weight once again with nobles and commoners alike. And let any who stand against you know that the Guard is ready to defend you on the field of battle, and our people. I will see that it is so." He finishes finally, his words carrying through the gallery the way they would when he speaks to his troops before commiting their lives to the cause. He does smiles faintly at her then. "I've waited my whole life to stand here, my Queen." he says softly, which means more then most in the room realize.

Rio gives Kellian a mona lisa smile. She seems to be proud of this Captain that has traveled with and fought beside her so many times in the past. She remains quiet off to the side where she had settled herself, among a few of the other courtiers and advisors to the queen. Applause breaks out to the new Captain-General's speech and she adds to it with some of her own.

Aislynn inclines her head at Kellian's words, a knowing look in her eyes that seems to pick upon whatever extra weight his own might carry. She turns and takes an ornate sword from the soldier dressed in ceremonial uniform--the same sword that made the scars that cross both of her palms. After taking it, she gestures with a slender, pale hand for Kellian to kneel at her feet.

Theowyn shows the briefest of pride in his eyes as he looks to Kellian. Those eyes similar to Kellian's, perhaps too much so. The attention is lowered only briefly, but as the sword is taken he raises to attention some more. Pride flashes through his features.

Kellian does as she instructs. Quiet now, he kneels before the young Queen. His silver flecked blue eyes regard her calmly now.

Aislynn holds the sword before her, point ground into the marble floor of the dais. "Please grasp the sword with both hands, Captain-General Kellian, and repeat after me." The razor-sharp edge of the blade glitters brightly in the room's vibrant illumination.

Kellian reaches out and takes hold of that sword in both his hands, his grasp is strong and sure, his voice, when he speaks again will resonate with the authority of command.

Jerald comes into the Grand Hall through the grandious doors that lead to the Entry Hall.

Jerald has arrived.

"I, Kellian Devail, do solemnly swear to lead the Guard of Andor in strict loyalty to Queen Aislynn, and to protect her life with my own--if need be. I swear blood Oath in the Old Way to uphold the Queen's Writ and to protect Andor and her people with my last breath." After solemnly intoning these words, the Queen awaits for Kellian's response.

Jerald takes his post at the door, relieving another guard standing at the door.

Milton takes mental notes. taht's good stuff.

Kellian takes a deep breath, then intones, a bit deeper then the Queen,"I, Kellian..Devail," A pause there as he glances from the Queen to Theowyn, but it is ever so slight,"do solemnly swear to lead the Guard of Andor in strict loyalty to Queen Aislynn, and to protect her life with my own--if need be. I swear Blood Oath in the Old Way to uphold the Queen's Writ and to protect Andor and her people with my last breath."

Inarin nibbles at his lip. That's right. The Lord Captain is *lip* nibbling. Of course, he's still looking agitated an irritable.

Aislynn nods in approval at Kellian's Oath, and lifts the sword, handing it back to the Guard, who retreats with it to the rear of the dais. She holds out a hand to the newly appointed Captain-General, helping him to rise to his feet. She glances out over at the crowd, a smile now curving her lips: "I present to you Kellian Duvail Versyr, Captain-General of Andor and Lord of House Versyr." She intones to Kellian in a low voice, so that only perhaps the closest rows might catch the sentence: "It is high time you take your rightful birthright, Kellian."

Some in the crowd must have caught that last addition, as a low murmuring and sussuration of questions begins at the Queen's addition of 'Versyr' to the new Captain-General's name.

Milton leans forward. That poor man. Hope he enjoys his day in the sun...cause it is going to be short. Odd how fate works...putting such an interesting man...at the helm of a sinking ship.

Kellian stands quietly now beside the Queen. He looks over at her,"I will endeavor to bring some respectibility to it, my Queen." The meaning of that might seem faintly obscure.

Theowyn nods his head, as though justice has been reached. The younger brother's expression begins to break more free of pride as Aislynn announces the true name of his older brother.

Rio glances around her as the people hear the Queen give Kellian the name of Versyr and declare him the Lord of the House. She looks over at the First Prince, curious as to how he might react to this pronouncement. For herself, Rio is not surprised by the addition of this new last name to the Captain-General's moniker.

Aislynn inclines her head to Kellian. "Thus far you have brought much honor to our House...a House that you have heretofore been denied. I trust you shall bring more honor in the future."

Milton does not seem all that suprised either for one reason or another. Hah...he expects better games of chess from a member of the Queen's house.

Inarin folds his hands together, now, behind his back. He's waiting, patiently, for a chance to get the Queen's attention. Of course, he's not about to interrupt *just* that second.

Despite the momentary confusion caused by Kellian's 'new name,' a great cheer rises up, with thunderous applause and a rain of hearty "huzzahs!" as the crowd greets the new Captain-General.

Kellian regards the crowd with a faint smile and says to Aislynn quietly,"I gained much by being forced down the path I was given as a child..I hope I can do equally well in this new role. I should warn you though, as a commoner and a soldier I've always had a faint distrust of the nobility." He's smiling faintly at her. "Except for you, of course." His words are too quiet to be heard by anyone further away then Aislynn, what with the huzzahs and conversation that ensues.

Aislynn chuckles lightly at Kellian, shaking her head in amusement. "Remind me to speak to you later on a subject Mother once broached with me. In regard to the nobility and commoners. I am sure you will find it enlightening...and amusing." She waves a pale hand, perhaps dismissing the idea of distrust. "As for me: there is nothing to distrust. If my Guard rides to battle, I shall ride with them." This last said with a confident lift of her chin.

Milton licks his lips again. Exactly the words he wanted to hear. "You go get um Queen Aislynn." That said quietly in amongst all the HURRAHS!...who knows perhaps Inarin might have heard it.

Theowyn shows that younger brother smirk with the words exchanged. Then he settles back into a more official stance as he watches his brother. "Welcome to the family, for the second time."

Rio chuckles and remarks quietly, "Spoken like a true sister of the green." One or two of the nearest couriters look at her strangely for her comment, but the gray sister pays them no mind.

Although she chats amiably with Kellian--her brother--Aislynn's eyes now happen at last upon the Child of the Light, Inarin. She inclines her head politely to him, although a lift of one pale golden brow denotes her curiosity--and perhaps slight irritation...at his presence. Her eyes flick quickly to Rio, perhaps to judge her reaction to his presence.

Inarin half-bows towards Aislynn, politely. He obviously has something he wishes to speak with her about. He takes a step closer, arms folded across his chest. Something must *really* weigh heavily on the Child's mind for him to *not* be sneering at the Aes Sedai present. Or maybe it's the fact he doesn't want to sneer at the Queen of Andor and get his head chopped off.

Rio returns the queen's glance and gives Inarin a cool look. The gray sister's views on the Children of the Light are well known and documented. The Aes Sedai doesn't speak however, leaving this particular instance without advisement.

Kellian smiles at Aislynn,"I know. That's why I trust you." then he smiles at Theowyn,"Thank you, Brother Theowyn. It has been a long journey and I have all of you to thank for it.." He regards Rio as he speaks, he begins to say something to her, then turns to regard the approaching Child,"Should he be here?" he asks the Queen.

In a dry tone that carries across the room...perhaps amplified with the Power? perhaps not....Aislynn recognizes Inarin. "Ah....Captain Commander Inarin. To what pleasure do I owe your presence during such a momentous occasion?" She raises a brow in expectation.

Inarin clears his throat. "Lord Captain Commander Emrich has once again assumed his duties. I am no longer acting Lord Captain Commander, your majesty. If I might have a moment of your time, there are several things I must discuss with you, your highness. Matters of import."

Aislynn murmurs quietly to Kellian, "Andor has a non-aggression treaty with the Children. He looks as if he comes for some purpose. If you are not acquainted with the Treaty, I shall have you briefed soon."

Theowyn manages that smug little look expected from him in regards to Inarin. Well, its the best that he can do. He seems content at letting his sister handle this one, thankfully.

Milton moves to get a better look at Inarin. This should be interesting. What important matters could possibly be festering here in Andor?

Aislynn inclines her head to Inarin's words, making a gesture of clear dismissal to the crowds gathered in the Grand Hall. (OOC: You don't have to leave, tho') She turns and seats herself again upon the Lion Throne, and beckons for Inarin to approach, holding out a hand to stop him as he nears the dais. "What are these matters of import, Child Inarin?"

OOC Note: From this point on the RP no longer contains general IC knowledge. All have been cleared but Kellian, Rio, Theowyn, Aislynn, Milton, and Inarin.

Kellian nods,"I was aware of it, I spoke to Emrich about it when he forced an escort on Rio Sedai and I during our journey to Tar Valon. Emrich suggested he wanted to make a treaty with the White Tower in a similar vein." Kellian resists the urge to tell the Queen that if she is not acquainted with the details he will be happy to brief her on them soon.

Apparently, this news was new to Inarin too, since his eyes widen slightly. The man doesn't do a very good job of concealing his surprise, though he's working hard to get past it. To his credit, he manages not to gape. "First, the former Captain-General is now residing at the farm. He has made...comments and accusatons that have necessitated this. He will only be seen within the city with an escort of the Children of the Light."

Rio remains in position as the courtiers move away from the throne. She looks calmly at the child, but doesn't travel any closer to the throne. However, being Aes Sedai, this doesn't mean that she doesn't hear every word. Quiet as Inarin and Aislynn may speak, there are still ways for the gray sister to hear every word.

Aislynn's eyebrows climb almost to her hairline at this revelation. "Lord Durnik? At the farm of the Children of the Light? Has he lost his wits?" Her voice rises slightly at this last. That infamous and notorious Versyr temper.

Theowyn takes a step forward at this, his eyes touching on a cool anger. He needs to cough to surpress any emotional outburst that would credit his features soon enough. The void becomes soothing enough, considering. "Is he there of his own free will, Lord Captain?"

Kellian will only move away from Aislynn's side if directly told to do so. He just swore an oath to protect Andor with his last breath. Well, these are far from his last breaths, but he is certain he should be involved in this conversation unless she says otherwise.

Milton licks his lips. Something he does when he is waiting to eat something as a general rule. This place is great! He hasn't been here a week and already there has been a riot...lions running loose, Durnik has been fired...He should come here and live.

"I suspect such," Inarin replies, calmly. "And until he has regained him, the former Captain-General is staying under escort and guard." He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "He has agreed to it, yes. He is there under of his own free will. He was given the choice to leave or stay."

Rio shakes her head and walking a little closer finally speaks. "What choice has he left to him, Sister? He is a landless Lord with only his skills to earn him a living. You have just taken his position in your court from him." She gives a nod of apology to Kellian, for she does not hold his new rank against him. "Although, I have to agree, joining the Children seems extreme."

Aislynn shakes her head, settling more comfortably on her throne, though her stance denotes that her anger has not abated. Not in the least. "The Children of the Light have -no- authority to take into custody an Andoran citizen. Not the least an Andoran citizen who might be a bit...unstable...at the moment. If he has not his wits about him, he is not able to make such a request of sound mind." She trails off as Rio interjects, and looks thoughtful--but no less angry...and perhaps concerned...for that. "Rio Sedai, I understand how me might feel. But, his place has not been usurped. He made a number of decisions that were--frankly--alarming in relation to what is currently taking place. I had no other choice but to do what I did."

Rio nods to Aislynn in understanding. "Of course." She says no more, sensing the queen's anger when it comes to Durnik.

Theowyn takes a deep breath as all this is being revealed. "What accusations has he made?" Theowyn asks following Aislynn's words, his expression cooling down.

"I agree. Durnik is there of his own free will, however. He is not our prisoner. However, he *will* be under escort. Perhaps I can give Her Highness a more detailed account in a slightly more private situation, at some point, where we can discuss the particulars?" Inarin also bears no love for the man, and this shows in his expression. He does *not* like Durnik.

Theowyn's words seem to spur something in her, and she swallows hard, though any fear or...foreboding is hidden beneath her cool demeanor.

Aislynn clears her throat imperiously, glancing about at the much emptied room. She turns her silver-flecked blue gaze back to Inarin, and says perempetorily: "Anything you need to say can be said in front of my most trusted circle, which is all that remains here." Funny: she doesn't seem to take into account this mysterious Milton, who has not heretofore drawn her attention.

Kellian remains quiet during the discussion about his former Commander, but keeps his eyes on Inarin,"Did you come here to court the Queen or to provide information important to the safety and security of the Realm?"

Jerald remains posted after all guests have been withdrawn to other rooms or off the grounds.

Inarin seems to find this funny, almost ironic really. He snorts at Kellian's comment, then coughs once. "Hardly. But I also hardly feel comfortable in front of everyone here, either." His gaze snaps to Kellian once, then returns to the Queen. "As I was about to say, he was levelled two accusations at two officers within my ranks. Accusations of a highly dangerous nature. Lord Kasagar, until these accusations have been resolved, is under the protection of the Children of the Light."

Aislynn smirks prettily at Kellian's mention of 'courting' and she gives Inarin a sharp glance, lifting one brow. Her voice is low and contains a dangerous edge. "You dare to waltz into my presence and announce--to me--that one of my subjects -will- be under your so-called 'protection' whether I will or no?" The low purring of her voice is belied by her stance upon her throne...a placid cat ready to spring to the attack.

Milton watches the Queen put Inarin through his paces. This will be interesting.

"I thought that Lord Kasagar had been fired, your majesty. I had assumed that he was no longer tied to the throne of Andor in any way, shape, or form. And he had agreed to our protection, agreed to our escort, and agreed to stay with the Children of the Light. You know that my loyalty to Andor is only second to my loyalty to the Children of the Light. Please, your majesty, do not put me in a position where I am forced to choose between the two." He seems sincere in that. "Lord Kasagar came to us of his own free will and asked to see the Lord Captain Comamnder. An audience was granted to him, and that came to be the result." Inarin shakes his head slightly, gaze sweeping over the trio.

Milton sighs. he wants to hear about the accusations...

Theowyn takes another step closer toward Inarin. His eyes steadied on the Ta'veren. "What in the Light..." Theowyn has near had enough with this. "I suggest we not allow /Lord/ Kasagara the privledge of causing strife between the Children and Andor." This meant specifically for Inarin, not Aislynn.

The sound of a sharp slap echoes through the room as Aislynn slams her palm down upon one of the armrests of the marble Throne. "Enough! The Lord Durnik is still a blooded noble of the land, no matter that he was not born in Andor. Despite the loss of his position, he is still under the protection of the Lion Throne." She turns now and looks at Theowyn.

Strife is good. Let him stay...

Inarin gives Theowynn and Aislynn and odd look. He takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. "Yes. But that protection isn't necessary. Durnik is *not* under arrest. He is not being put to the Question. His claims are being investigated by the Children of the Light, as we would any other." That can only mean one thing, of course. Someone or other is a Darkfriend. "Your Majesty," He looks up towards her, saying quietly, "The former Captain General did say one thing that I feel I must bring to your attention before all others. I do not know if these are ravings or things he learned on good conscience.. but he said that Andor's eyes *must* be turned towards Illian, that Illian may indeed support Murandy in whatever comes."

At this, Aislynn shares a look with Theowyn and Kellian. "At this point, considering what has passed, I am not quick to trust in Durnik's judgement. However, know you this: if this situation in Murandy escalates into war....AND IF Illian decides to support Murandy, Andor will be prepared."

Milton does seem very highly interested in that last bit...

Inarin looks toward Theowyn and Kellian too, then at Aislynn. He nods, then half-bows a second time. "Thank you, your majesty." Her assurance seems more than enough for him. Maybe there's some level of trust in her on his part? Or maybe he doesn't want to push the point any further. "I apologize for creating such a stir."

Aislynn waves a hand in dismissal. "This matter shall garner further discussion. Now hear one of -my- demands: to parley with the Lord Durnik on the morrow, in order to see. for. myself. whether or not your words hold even the slimmest shard of truth."

Theowyn nods with the slighest tilt of his head, finally taking the few steps back that he had taken forward.

Aislynn rises from her throne, Inarin being dismissed. She turns to Kellian, smiling at him wanly. "I am afraid that your not inconsiderable skills and prowess may well be called for soon in this matter." Clearly, she is not speaking of the situation with Durnik. She takes his hand in a gesture of familial affection, and presses it lightly in her own. "There is much I shall have to brief you on over the next few days and weeks. Theowyn, also, shall aid you." That being said, she steps down off the dais, making a polite nod to Rio, "Good even, Sister," before making her way toward the exit, heeled by two Guards, in a soft rustle of silks. Responsibility seems to weigh heavily on her, for her steps are just the slightest touch heavier than they were when she entered, to make the announcement of Kellian's promotion. However, she hides well her foreboding with Aes Sedai expressionless, which seems to come just the slightest bit more easier for her now, and with her own ingrained air of confidence and grace.

Theowyn passes by Kellian patting him on the shoulder. He manages a brief nod to Inarin, before too heading out.

Aislynn has left.