The doors to the Kamikatsu apartments swing open with a single fluid moment of the a pair of Kamikatsu liveried sentry Honor Guard. Revealed is the Princess Elyse, on the arm of one of the ranking officers of her guardsmen. With his escort, and those meant to guard her person flanking them and behind (a total of 5), she steps out into the Noble Sitting Room in her usual cautious, slow pace. Her vacant deep blue eyes settle on some distant and unrecognized point ahead of her.

Aislynn paces back and forth restlessly, near the far end of the sitting chamber. A hapless young man, dressed in the uniform of the Queen's Guard, listens to her attentively. "I want this person -found- and found -immediately-! I cannot -believe- that my. own. Guards. do not even know me when they -see- me!"

Elyse pauses in her short, cautious stride. She gives no visible indication as to her thoughts, her features remain smooth and even. Her head tilts in a fashion as to lend her ear more to the voice of the Queen, and it takes her a moment to recognize the voice. Her guards, of course, bow, and those by the doors to the Kamikatsu apartments close them once more. At last, recognition seems to spread across her features and the Princess offers a deep courtly curtsey towards the voice of the Queen. Elyse's hand adds particular deference, by Borderland standards at least, by placing her hand over her bosom through the curtsey, as well as bowing her head. A few honey-blonde tresses slip forward past her neck, brushing over the slender hand that covers her heart. "Your Majesty," she greets in a rich, smooth tone, thick with a Borderland accent.

Aislynn turns from the hapless Guard, and stops in midstride at the sound of the Princess' voice. "Your Highness," she says, giving a perfunctory curtsy...the merest bending of her knees and spreading of her rich skirts. There is no doubt about it: the young Queen is highly upset over -something-. She hastily turns back to the Guard and says, teeth gritted, "I want some answers! The Queen's Bounty, indeed!" She sniffs disdainfully, and tosses out: "Anyone with an silver crown's worth of intelligence -knows- that it is -not- the time for the Queen's Bounty!" With a wave of a hand, she dimisses the Guard upon whatever duty she has angrily assigned him, and turns back to Elyse, offering her a kindly, apologetic smile. "Forgive my rudeness, your Highness."

The light clicking of foots can be heard coming from the stairs. Theowyn makes it to the stop of the steps, his eyes stressed over some matter or another. A half smile does come to his features as he sees Aislynn and Elyse standing near in the start of a conversation, though the pale-faced dismissed guard offers a less pleasing insight. Theowyn heads toward the Queen and Princess, his eyes moving between the two. His introduction into the conversation is less the formal. "Aislynn, Elyse. Good evening."

Elyse offers a kind smile, courteous, but with a warmth indicating an effort to be friendly. And lifting herself from her held curtsey, raising her head with that pleasant smile, replies in an eloquent lilting silver-tongue, "Of course, Your Majesty, though I confess I have yet to find anything rude by which to take offense," she swallows, pausing a moment as if silently considering if her own manner was inappropriate by Andoran customs, and then adds, "Is there anything with which I can be of service?" Her head tilts at the sound of Theowyn's heels approaching, and her smile brightens noticeably when she hears his voice, "My Prince," she greets warmly, "Peace favour your sword." Suspecting that Elyse will be here a little while at least, her Honor Guard fan out slightly, save for the officer escorting her, and all remain alert to the room and those who come and go, including passing servants.

guard players on Caemlyn's channel:

The First Prince moves to Elyse's side, taking his escort of the Princess all too naturally. The time these two spend together would be obvious, with the familiar way his arm slips around hers, aiding her lightly in a half step toward him. "My Princess," he returns the fondness, his gaze lightly lingering before he looks to his sister. "Something the matter?"

Rezna enters the Palace Sitting Room from the Cairhienian Ambassador's Suite.

Rezna has arrived.

Rezna comes ambling out of his apartments with hsi hands in his pockets.

At her brother's question, Aislynn nods. "Please correct me if I am wrong, but several days past was -not- the customary time for the distribution of the Queen's Bounty, was it?" What an odd question for Aislynn to be asking. But, perhaps it is not--if rumours have already reached the higher circles of Caemlyn.

If Elyse's smile could be said to have the ability to brighten yet more, it does so now, as Theowyn takes her arm to his, offering himself as escort while the officer who had formerly been escort steps away with a respectful bow, and resumes his duty elsewhere in the room, along with the other Kandori Honor Guard stationed about the room. Elyse too easily settles beside the Prince, quite used to his offered escort and placement. To the observant, her hand gives his arm a gentle, affectionate squeeze. Her attention then turns to the Queen, her ear tilted a bit in the direction of Aislynn's voice though Elyse's eyes are cast in a blank stare someplace distantly.

Engest walks from the Queen's Chambers, entering the Sitting Room.

Engest has arrived.

Theowyn shakes his head with a brief confused look on his features. "Not unless you have decided to change the date of the bounty?" It is clear that none have informed Theowyn of his 'sister's' activities. Though confused, he manages a reassured squeeze of Elyse's arm as he steps them closer to Aislynn. The two show some familiarity in the way they move together as well. At the end, something tugs at his consciousness. "There was some strange report of a bounty, but I took it as false gossip. Is that what this is about?"

Rezna scratches his head as he approaches. "You refer to the bounty given the other day?"

Aislynn inclines her head to her brother's words. "Indeed, I had thought it simply idle gossip before. But it would seem may in the city are in an uproar about the Queen stealing food from the mouth of babes." She sounds indignant, and lifts her chin in her characteristic manner. "And -then- I pursued the matter by speaking to a group of Guards who I was told escorted 'me' to distribute the Bounty, and they concurred: they looked at me as if I were taken by the Dragon! I was there! I had them distribute food, clothing and goods--but no coin, as is the custom. And -then- I took all away when questioned." She shakes her head, her pale eyes flashing coldly. "There is something very odd afoot." She turns at the sound of Rezna's voice, and gives a curt nod. "It would seem so, Ambassador, yes. What know you of it?" She lifts an impervious brow at the completion of her sentence, giving it harsh punctuation.

Just arriving from without, Engest's expression is faintly chagrinned as he makes his usually pained way towards the Queen's side, "Your pardon for my tardiness, your Highness," he murmurrs as he offers the Queen a formal bow, stepping slightly to the side to allow the conversation to run it's course.

Elyse remains silent, but definitely present for the interaction between everyone. Not entirely certain of the situation, she merely listens, remaining at the side of the First Prince of the Sword, evidently attentive.

Rezna cocks his head to the side with an odd smile. "You have no memory of placing a man in the stockade then?" Oh come on Aislynn...admit it..>Rezna didn't think you had it in you in the first place.

Theowyn is a little taken back by Rezna's words, stepping to the side slightly to allow for more room for both Rezna and Engest. "You were there?" Theowyn asks in surprise, as though this had confirmed something that Aislynn had already offered enough evidence for. He looks to Aislynn, beginning a nod in agreement. "This is not right," he agrees, after nodding a welcome to Engest.

From Guest Quarters: Royal Palace of Andor, Caemlyn, Kellian says " Hello :)"

The young Queen, despite her apparent anger and righteous indignation, also offers her Uncle a polite nod, murmuring a dismissal of his apology as unneeded. She then blanches somewhat, before her pale face is suffused with angry red. "The stockade? The Guard bloody well left out -that- detail." She turns to Rezna, since he seems to be just a -font- of information. "Tell me more," she says, a cool purr from the back of the throat.

Rezna nods. "Yes I was there. The queen...was not the least bit happy. She had one man put in a stockade for...questioning her generosity, and proceeded to order a number of her guards to take back everything she had given out...which was not all that much to begin with."

Rezna scratches his head. "The man is still festering out there I believe..."

Elyse blinks a number of times in succession and her brow furrows as she tries to puzzle this mystery out. She remains on the arm of the Prince, her vacant gaze cast elsewhere, and continues to listen. Her attention seems easily divided between the forthcoming Cairhienan and Her Majesty.

Upon hearing this, seemingly oblivious to everything else, the Queen turns on her heel in a whisper of silks and velvets, and runs down the stairs, toward the direction of the Great Hall.

Aislynn descends the white spiral, headed for the lower levels of the Palace.

Aislynn has left.

"My Queen," Engest begins, his words falling on deaf ears as Aislynn hurries forth from the room. Shaking his head in frustration Engest moves to follow, although his gait is labored and wracked by his infirmity.

Engest descends the white spiral, headed for the lower levels of the Palace.

Engest has left.

The First Prince does not look pleased at all, and he too turns toward the stairs. "Coming, of course, Princess?" he manages to ask, though clearly intends to lead her down.

Rezna has left.

You descend the white stairs to the lower levels of the Palace.

Entry Hall: Royal Palace of Andor, Caemlyn

Elyse descends the white spiral staircase and walks into the Entry Hall.

Elyse nods, her expression even, as she is lead away, "Of course, my Prince." Her guards move to take up flanking positions.

The Queen's Plaza: Inner City, Caemlyn(#749RJMa$)

Elyse walks through the guarded gates, and into the Queen's Plaza.

Gracefully, the Queen rushes through the thinning crowds of the Plaza, nimbly dodging obstructions to her way. When she approaches the stocks near the Palace walls, she orders the Guards nearby: "Release this man at once!"

And there he sits...hunched over onto his knees with his arms and his neck locked into the stockade. Poor guy looks to be somewhere in his late 30's. His wife sits there on the ground nextt o him...having just brought him something to eat. Unlike most public spectacles, in this case the people take no joy in seeing him there whatsoever. Infact people have actually tried to donate what they could to the poor guy who is now entering into his third night of being stuck there. He looks like hell...clothes soiled hair greasy...just the sort of mess one expects from the stockade. The guards seem puzzled by the queen's orders. Did n't she order them to put him here? They immediately move forward and begins removing the man's restraints.

Hobbling after the hurrying Queen in a painfully pressed gait, Engest draws as close as he can to the Queen before the demands of his wracked frame overcome his ability to proceed further and the Chancellor half-stumbles to a stop. "My Queen," the Chancellor pants, "Spare a moment, if you will."

The Kandori Honor Guard surrounding the Princess, escorted by the First Prince of the Sword, tense visibly as they enter the plaza. The officer can be heard muttering something about too much exposure, but doesn't dare command the Princess to retreat back to the relative safety of the Palace. He makes gestures to the guardsmen under his command, and indicates positions he thinks will best offer the Princess (and the Prince) protection with only a meager five Kandori Honor Guard contingent. Elyse, for her part, has done all she can to keep up with Theowyn's strides, after those who followed the Queen here. Her bosom heaves a little from the exertion, but she is not completely out of breath, being long-leggedly tall as most Kandori are. She tilts her head this way and that, attempting to capture all the sounds and vibrations of the environment.

Theowyn's sights are set on Aislynn as he leads Elyse swiftly through the streets of Caemlyn toward the Queen's Plaza. His eyes visibly widen at the sight of the held man, and those that are there to help him. The weeping woman... Theowyn is disturbed, slowing in pace as he whispers the scene to Elyse in near exact detail.

Aislynn watches the Guards removing the manacles from the poor man's wrists and ankles. Her fierce eyes turn to the Guards, who look at her in a confused manner while they are about their work. "Do not look at me like that, you men! -I- did not order him here. I tell you, there is something very strange going on." When they do not look convinced, she raises her voice and snaps, "Think, you louts! Three days past was not even. the. time. for the Queen's Blessing!" Upon hearing her uncles voice, she turns to him, her chest heaving with anger.

The 'louts' release the man. The both of them bow to their queen...honestly and completely confused...and not the least bit happy about being accused of whatever it is this is here for the whole world to see. Oh sure...blame it on the poor grunts who are just following their orders. One of them fixes the queen with...an unhappy face...as if to say...You certainly did order me to do this and I am not a fool...all without saying a word. If one were to look around the steadily growing crowd of spectators...they would see the same accusing stares. Many of them had their things forcibly removed from them by these same guards. they saw the queen. They heard her...they watched her...and now the crowd mumbles and grumbles as she yells at the guards. Is she calling all of them liars? or perhaps they're all just ungrateful louts?

"My Queen," the Chancellor begins haltingly, half the hesitation brought on by his fatigue and pain, the other by Aislynn's enflamed countenance. "You are no doubt correct in your recognition of something amiss, yet you do yourself no favors by rushing about headlong. You have people who can aid you, my Queen, make use of us." So spoken, Engest steps a half pace away from Aislynn and awaits her pleasure.

The sobbing wife wraps her arms around the poor man as he is released and proceeds to just hug him. Both sob together...not daring to look up at the raging queen for fear of what she might have done to them next.

Elyse nods without word to Theowyn's description of events, and remains on his arm until he should remove himself. She doesn't seem to acknowledge the unhappy mutters of either the Queen's Guards, or her own Honor Guard. Instead, her attention seems divided between the weeping wife, the sounds of the crowd, and the Queen and her company themselves. She is, quite obviously, distracted with trying to keep up, but does so with a calm exterior, dislpaying none of the worry or tension of her own Guardsmen.

Theowyn's awareness of the scene becomes more obvious as he slowly escorts Elyse closer to the scene. There's a slight nod in confirmation of Engest's words. He takes a few more steps forward, until they are near beside Aislynn, his focus going to the man and his wife, and those that are here in support of him. A touching moment, if not for the fact that it was brought about from an evil source.

Aislynn inclines her head to her Uncle, casting a glance about at the crowd that seemed to have sprung up. The angry murmurs and accusing glances seem to cut her to the quick, for a hurt look comes into her eyes. Her gaze turns to the sobbing woman hugging the hapless man, and she takes a few steps forward, holding out a compassionate hand.

Kellian walks through the guarded gates, and into the Queen's Plaza.

Kellian has arrived.

Engest mutters to Aislynn, "... in... the... is pitched... his... "My Queen,... is... yet... to... seen rushing here, there... suspicions by... behavior.""

Kellian enters the Plaza atop a strong gray mare. She's moving at a trot. He slows and finally stops as he reaches the group here.

Aislynn inclines her head once again to Engest, before she approaches the couple any further. "Speak, Uncle," she says, perempetorily.

The man is not in any condition to be getting up at the moment...not without some major help. His wife seems...at a loss. She was there when this woman exploded. She knows what Aislynn is capable of. And she knows what might happen if she dares to upset Aislynn again....with that in mind she reaches a tentative hand to the queen.

Inarin walks through the guarded gates, and into the Queen's Plaza.

Inarin has arrived.

Kellian drops to the ground with a single fluid motion. His eyes scanning the situation here. What is going on here?

Jaelana enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Jaelana has arrived.

Aislynn clasps the woman's proferred hand warmly in both of hers, smiling to her gently, the anger that formerly tinged her eyes now melting away at the sight of such emotional suffering. "Mistress...." she murmurs, quietly. She says nothing more for the nonce, awaiting her Uncle's comment.

At the sound of a horse approaching, and a man dismounting, Theowyn turns. He nods to his brother once, and urges him over. "It would seem these men believe they received orders stright from the Queen," he notes the Guardsman nearby. "That Aislynn certainly did not give." This is said loud enough for Kellian and a few others around to hear, depending on his proximity.

And then through the crowd comes Inarin. He's not in uniform, so most there don't recognize him, though it's obvious who does from the way they get out of his way.

Elyse remains on the arm of the First Prince of the Sword, and her accompanying, seemingly unhappy, contingent of Kandori Honor Guards are rigidly attentive to her surroundings. The Kandori Princess remains attentive as well, listening between description offered, and the sounds of the circumstances. She seems unafraid, even as exposed as she likely is, and her expression is simply neutral as she remains, listening.

The woman just looks at the queen. Her hands certainly do feel...human enough. "Why are you doing this?" Is all she can amanage to say as she looks up into those imperious eyes.

Engest spares the Queen a wry glance before taking a few steps forward from her side, raising his arms as he raises his voice, speaking in a clear tone which likely carries across the entire Courtyard. "People of Caemlyn," he begins formally, lowering his arms as he takes another few steps forward, "Your Queen has come here to extend mercy to one of her subjects," he says, indicating the pair now in close quarters with the Queen, "As it is her right and priviledge to do. Know that her compasion is rivaled only by her wrath at those who would seek to do any injustice." And with that he nods to Aislynn and steps away.

She's lost, maybe. Or maybe it's just the crowd that drew her. In any case, Jaelana is just one of many.

Kellian frowns faintly,"What orders?" He studies those in question. Then looks to each of the players here, trying to surmise something of what is happening. He feels a dark hand at work here..

A collective moan goes up from the crowd! Nothing more nothing less. They are not stupid afterall. How generous of her...To slam these locks down on him...only to show them all her magnanimous mercy nearly 3 days later.

Ironically, in his thoughts of dark hands, Kellian's gaze finally stops on Rezna.

This means it's easier for Inarin to get a look at what's going on, of course, which is exactly what he's doing. He starts whispering with one of the citizens, speaking back and forth to find out the 'deal', so to speak.

Rezna comes ambling down the road...not in nearly the same hurry everyone else seems to have been.

Aislynn's eyes widen at her Uncle's speech. Perhaps it is not entirely what she had in mind, but perhaps it is enough to save her. Perhaps. That being finished, she closes the distance between herself and the man's wife, drawing her closer to him, still holding the woman by the hand. She kneels down next to him, heedless of her fine skirts trailing in the dirt and grime of the street. She leans close to murmur in comforting tones to the erstwhile prisoner: "Please, Sir, try to calm yourself. Aid is coming." She gestures to a Guard with a pale hand...her free one..."Water. The man needs water."

Said guards snaps right to it. he does not want to be the victim of the queen's next memory loss afterall. It takes him only a few moments to locate the water and bring it back. The poor man on the other hand...is calm as a mountain lake right about now...namely because he has strength for little else. Again the wife asks in a meek tone. "Why did you put him here?"

Engest steps forward then, hopefully before the Queen has the opportunity to speak. "All will be explained to you in time, Mistress." he says softly, "On that you have my word."

Aislynn casts the woman a sidewise glance, a shudder running through her as if she were physically stricken by the woman. She does not answer yet; instead, she turns to the man and says in low tones, "When you feel refreshed enough to rise, you shall retire to the Palace, where you shall be fed and reparations might be made you."

"That we have yet to figure out, brother," Theowyn answers honestly. "There was a Queen's Bounty out of season, one that Aislynn certainly did not attend, though Guards seemed to believe she did." The Prince's hand moves to stroke against Elyse's arm in reassurance. "And as a result some believe the Queen ordered this man shackled for public punishment."

Kellian watches this exchange quietly. "What was his crime?" he asks Theowyn.

The woman looks crossly at Engest. Like she needs him to explain what she saw...She wants to hear it from Aislynn's mouth...She does not press it though, knowing full well what this woman might do. "I want to come with him." she nearly demands. Quite headstrong it would seem.

"Of course, Mistress. I would not separate you from your husband." Aislynn looks at the woman with concern. "And if you have any children, pray you bring them, also." Aislynn takes the water from the Guard and gives it to the man with her own hands, helping him to drink.

Rio walks softly through the guarded gates, and into the Queen's Plaza.

Rio has arrived.

Caenna walks through the guarded gates, and into the Queen's Plaza.

Caenna has arrived.

"You'll have to ask the guards, that I am not certain. Though it would seem that he is innocent of any outlined crimes," Theowyn states in a quiet tone to Kellian, his attention shifting to Aislynn as she tries to reason with those she is near.

Remaining on the escorting arm of The First Prince of the Sword, Elyse is calm and collected, despite the growing crowd, and despite the confusion anyone without the gift of sight might feel with all the motion and noise around her. A nervous, foot-shifting, five-man contingent of Kandori Honor Guard surround Princess Elyse and Prince Theowyn, which in turn more or less indicates most of the notables at the center of the crowd, seeing as how that is where Theowyn has lead Elyse. For her part, Elyse remains silently attentive to what is being said, and not expressing her own thoughts at this time, not thinking it her place, though the approved and formal courtship between herself and Theowyn is well known.

Rio arrives near the rear of the party, quiet and without a guard of her own. Being Aes Sedai, she has the ability and confidence to stand on her own. With her is the white sister, Caenna Sedai. She murmers quietly to Caenna as they walk closer to where the man has been shackled in the public plaza. More an observer than a participant.

Caenna emerges quietly from the palace with Rio, halts in surprise at the crowd before following the Gray sister.

Aislynn kneels before a haggard looking man who sits before the empty stocks. She seems oblivious to the fact that her fine skirts are dragging in the dirt, and her velvet slippers are besmeared with mud. She looks at the man with concern, and helps him to drink from a small pail of water, every once in awhile casting glances sidewise at the murmuring crowd.

The man does indeed drink but not much else. He says nothing to this woman...a woman he has been silently cursing for 3 days now. He simply accepts her help...not understanding it. Both he and his wife remain quiet...not enjoying being the public spectacle that they have been for all this time.

Kellian clasps his hands behind his back and steps away from his brother, he walks to the guards that carried out these orders. He takes up a position just in front of one of them, staring up into the man's eyes. His voice is decisive, though so quiet as not to be heard clearly enough to be understood by eavesdroppers. The three guards do a hasty about face and flee toward the barracks. Kellian turns back toward the Queen and the punished man. He takes a few steps forward, then the short Captain General kneels in the mud as well, taking a critical look at the man's condition. He looks at the man's face, then his wrists, finally he turns his face toward Aislynn enough to say,"You did not do this." It is a statement.

Theowyn continues to scan across those that are watching this scene unfold. Leading Elyse another few steps, he stands near the empty stocks and watches. "To have our own men fooled," he mutters lightly under his breath, realizing it must be as stated, the evidence enough clear on the features of those that are watching them, and those that witnessed the 'Queen' give her orders.

Caenna mutters to Rio, "... I... man we... presence is required here?"

Not only your men...but your people. The crowd is pressing closer...still fixing their queen with a myriad of particularly untrusting and unhappy stares.

Kellian stands from the mud,"Your husband is safe now."

Aislynn seems unperturbed by the closely pressing crowd, her attention--and concern--focused on the unfortunate man.

Rio leans over to the white sister. She mutters to Caenna, "I can... ears... tower,..." She gives the Aes Sedai a comforting squeeze on her arm and her dove gray eyes bid the woman to depart on her other business before she returns her attention to the Queen. Rio will remain where her post and duty lies.

Marith enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Marith has arrived.

Caenna gives Rio a concerned look, but nods, murmurs a soft "Thank you." She sets off through the crowd, small size aiding her even without the ring on her finger.

Kellian looks around at the crowd,"A great injustice has been done to this man, at the hand of the Queen's own guard. The Queen herself is innocent, but those that would believe her capable of such a deed..they have failed in their duty." He walks over to the stocks. "Guardsman!" he calls to one still standing nearby. "The Queen has only compassion for her people. And only an iron fist for our enemies. The Guards stands shamed this day for its hand in this matter. Therefore, I will place myself in the stocks and remain so just as this man did..without food and without water. Let no citizen of Andor be treated unjustly by our hand again."

Caenna leaves the Queen's Plaza, headed north.

Caenna has left.

Humming to herself, a rather tall and interesting creature makes its way toward the Palace. A dress made of the finest of silks, decorated in a deeply inhued floral pattern, dons this figure which stands nearly ten feet tall. Marith looks to be in better spirits than she did when she first exited the Palace, having spent a majority of the day in the larger Arboretum, rather than the Queen's Gardens.

Rio sighs as she hears Kellian's declaration and shakes her head with some disapproval, but remains silent and passive in the background. Simply the eyes and ears of the tower.

Einone enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Einone has arrived.

Kellian will signal the Guardsman to lock him in, lest someone intervene.

The guards are flabbergasted. First they get called louts and liars...Now they bring shame on Andor by persecuting the innocent...and now they have to put their Captain General in the stock for people to have their way with. Many of them just look at one another for a long moment...hoping perhaps the queen will countermand the order...Just as she gave the previous one to put the man in the stocks...and then countermanded that. A number of them do move forward though to do as their commander bids. The complete confusion and utter unhappiness about this entire mess is evident on their faces...To be abandoned like this....

Aislynn rises, holding out a hand to stop Kellian. "Nay, good brother. The crime and injustice was committed in the Queen's own name. If anyone should stand in the stocks, it should be myself."

Einone limps along the jingling of her bells lost in the crowd, large eyes widen further as she looks around

Elyse blinks again, her brow furrowing a little as she listens to the ongoings, feeling rather at ease, and confident in her security. However, the Kandori Honor Guard, a meager five in count, are indeed perturbed by the pressing crowd, unlike Her Majesty. If they did anything against them, even in proactive defense of their Princess, it could case an intercultural incident. The officer in charge of his men knows this and though he doesn't turn his attention from the encroaching muttering crowd, he directs his voice to Elyse, 'Your Highness,' his tone is soft, and almost plaintive, as plaintive as a Borderland warrior could make, 'I strongly suggest we away, now. Before the situation grows more dangerous.' He shoots a meaningful look towards the Prince. Elyse, however, doesn't seem ready to leave at all, her head tilting to lend an ear in this direction or that, depending on who is speaking. To her guardsman's words, she purses her lips slightly and She mutters to Theowyn, "By... council,... Prince.... I..."

You sense Elyse blinks again, her brow furrowing a little as she listens to the ongoings, feeling rather at ease, and confident in her security. However, the Kandori Honor Guard, a meager five in count, are indeed perturbed by the pressing crowd, unlike Her Majesty. If they did anything against them, even in proactive defense of their Princess, it could case an intercultural incident. The officer in charge of his men knows this and though he doesn't turn his attention from the encroaching muttering crowd, he directs his voice to Elyse, 'Your Highness,' his tone is soft, and almost plaintive, as plaintive as a Borderland warrior could make, 'I strongly suggest we away, now. Before the situation grows more dangerous.' He shoots a meaningful look towards the Prince. Elyse, however, doesn't seem ready to leave at all, her head tilting to lend an ear in this direction or that, depending on who is speaking. To her guardsman's words, she purses her lips slightly and "By your council, my Prince. Should I away?"

Rezna finds a nice quiet place to watch. He folds his arms in front of him...amusement clearly showing. Only in Andor could something as...screwed up as this actually happen.

Theowyn is standing terribly near to the locks himself, and as he watches his older brother take his position, he eyes the crowd in a studious manner. There is a hope within him as well that the Queen will put a stop to this, though not with her resolve. "I do not believe any of us should pay for an injustice against the Queen. These men need to be questioned. Certainly the cause of all this could be found." He turns his attentions to Elyse, shaking his head lightly. "In a moment's time, Princess. We are safe here, among the Queen's men. And among Her people." The tone quieter, though he does take a step back away from the shackles. There is a certain consideration for this, as certainly the stated dangers are all too real.

Jaelana finally drifts away from the crowd, as inconspicuous as she was before when she came.

Jaelana leaves the Queen's Plaza, headed north.

Jaelana has left.

A voice shouts out from the crowd. "We already know the cause! We saw it withour own eyes! Why are you telling us we didn't see it!?" The crowd quickly converges around the source of the voice. The vast majority of them do not have the guts to speak up...but when one of them does...by the light they do have the guts to shield him from view.

Rio scans the crowd, seeking the source of the catcalls. Her attention is certainly not on the mayrteristic prince or the queen. Their lives are their own. No, the aes sedai is more interested in how this whole mess got started in the first place.

Tufted ears flicker back and forth at the crowded gathering, warm, brown eyes taking in the curious sight before her. Marith pauses in her steps, on her return ot the palace. This is an interesting sight indeed, for the Eldest to have stumbled upon.

Kellian lifts his head from the stock and looks over at her. "I swore an oath to you Aislynn. I must stand responsible for the actions of the Guard who have forgotten their way." He looks at those of his men who stand here now."I know you, everyone. And I know in your hearts you are good men of Andor..and you will make all of Andor proud. But as your commander I swore an oath to protect Andor and her Queen with my last breath. Just as all of you have done by donning that uniform." He then looks to the crowd,"All of you feel fear. You feel distrust. You see us as the enemy of your lifes. I was once a poor boy in a small village far from here. I was not born with this rank..I earned this position by my not giving in to the fears of distrust and disappointment. Go if you will and gossip about what has happened here..or, be brave, and don't let our enemies win. Our true enemies. We are Andorans, all. From the smallest child to the highest of nobles. Go on like this and Andor will lay in ruins within the month. I am going to endure the same as this man suffered, will any of you join me? Do any of you have the courage and the strength to stand for something, instead of against it? You should be proud to be Andoran, and to have a Queen such as Aislynn. But as long as you listen to the little voices of the Dark One, then we have all lost our way.." He looks to the Guard again,"close the stocks."

Engest sighs at the development of the situation, shaking his head sadly as he approaches the Queen, He mutters to Aislynn, "My... perhaps it would be... the Palace. It would... have... from the... the..."

Einone watches the confusion eyes wide, she murmers something softly about southlanders

Rio continues to scan the crowd and then catches sight of the arafellin novice. "Einone. Attend me," she tells the girl, expecting her to come forward at her command.

Einone obeys instantly as she has been trained limping towards Rio as best she can, bells chimming softly as she fits her slender body through the crowd

Aislynn looks undecided, as she stands near a pair of empty stocks, apparently awaiting to be locked up as her brother is volunteering to do. Upon hearing Engest's voice, she seems uncertain, though. Clearly, something needs to be done about this situation. In reply to Engest, she states, flatly, "Take the victim and his wife to the Palace. There, see that they both receive food and a warm bed. In three days' time I shall return, at which time they shall receive reparations for what they have endured." She lifts her arms, situating herself into the stocks. To the Guards commanded by Kellian, she repeats his order, but in relation to herself. "Close the stocks."

Kellian mutters to Aislynn, "The... the... joke... that... our oath..but... do not have to do this..."

The crowd is not at all sure what to think...One mind at a time Kellian's reasoning might have some appeal...but this is the herd mentality you are dealing with. Another voice shouts out, this from the other side of the crowd. "Ain't no evil people whisperin to us! We saw it and that's for sure." As The Queen puts herself into the stocks and orders them closed...an eerie hush falls over the crowd though...even the most active antagonists silenced by this gesture. Why is she doing this? She's the queen...

Aislynn lifts her chin at her brother's admonition. "Kellian, I am just as much a laughingstock as are you and the Guard. I, too, made a vow to protect and serve Andor. I have fought for Andor...for these self-same people who now crowd around here, silently demanding justice be done to these poor unfortunates. I have been sheltered in their basements...in their rat-infested attics..during the reign of the usurper. I believe my pride can take being in the stocks for three days."

"Little Voices of the Dark One?" Inarin looks at Kellian, then just simply stares at Aislynn as she puts herself in the stocks. He just shakes his head, slowly, "Light."

Rio leans over to Einone. She mutters to Einone, "... is... Queen can't... I need to... started... Einone.... was a... here, (she... general... believe that... have... this.... out more... her and... is... in this madness and report... to me immediately.... this..." Rio Sedai looks at the arafellin novice steadily, her quiet tone very serious.

Elyse nods to Theowyn's council and for most of what is spoken she remains dutifully quiet. However, as she listens to the Queen, and Kellian place themselves within the stocks and order themselves within she gasps audibly amidst the crowds silence, and a frustrated frown appears. OH, if she were to have the liberty to rally Andor to their Queen as she has done so for the Kandori soldiers of her own land.

Rezna stands amazed. Is she actually going to put herself in the stockade? He mutters to himself about the Queen of Cairhien being dead within the first day if she were to try a stunt like that. Talk about...defensless. You know somebody is up in a nice padded room with a birds eye view of all this drooling all over themselves at this possible opportunity.

Einone blinks as she listens to rio and nods She mutters to Rio, "Aye... will... Aes... what... and... someone less..foreighn..."

Jzuric enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Jzuric has arrived.

Perhaps sensing Rezna's unspoken thoughts of danger, the Guards uncertainly enclose the fiery-haired Queen of Andor into the stocks, and then go about stripping her quickly and efficiently of the opulent jewels she wears. Every item of jewelry adorning her neck, wrists and fingers is taken---all except her golden Great Serpent Ring. Perhaps they are afraid to touch it.

It takes a lot to surprise an Ogier, particularly this Ogier who is leader of a Stedding. Her deep voice rumbles out across the plaza, easily heard by human ears. "With all due respect, your Majesty, would it not be better to show kindness and loyalty upon the people, than to place yourself in direct harms way? These are hasty acts, and do forgive me for speaking so, but... you will be vunerable to attack." Marith gives the guard an apologetic look, "Would you not?" She tries to be a voice of reason within the madness, her tufted ears twitching back and forth as she catches some of the idle conversations about her.

Kellian nods at Aislynn. "It is the right thing to do." He looks at the crowd now.

Rio shakes her head at Einone, "No, I am asking you." She then moves away from the novice and says to the Queen. "Please, think about what you do, Aislynn. Can you truly serve your people from the stocks? Or will you allow whoever started this madness to win. Do not disgrace yourself in this fashion, nothing good will come of it."

Einone curtseys to Rio 'Your will Aes Sedai'

Theowyn takes a few steps forward, the concern showing on his features. He's obviously not liking this, for varied reasons. He mutters to Aislynn, "... has been... and your... a... victory to... other... if... for their crimes. I... prefer none..." As he lifts away, he simply glares at the guards that would dare come close to locking the Queen, though they certainly would at her other, he'd expect. He looks to Elyse, a comforting squeeze on her arm showing.

Aislynn senses "Theowyn takes a few steps forward, the concern showing on his features. He's obviously not liking this, for varied reasons. "A crime has been committed against you, and your people, sister. It would be sending a hint of victory to the other side if they were to see the cause they had on you, to see you shackled here for their crimes. I would prefer none of us restrained ourselves and such." As he lifts away, he simply glares at the guards that would dare come close to locking the Queen, though they certainly would at her other, he'd expect. He looks to Elyse, a comforting squeeze on her arm showing."

Quietly, Inarin presses his hand to his forehead. The look on his face is of someone that just feels like this is all his own fault, somehow. He steps through the crowd a bit more quickly, trying to get closer to the front of it so he can see without any interruptions. It's relatively easy for him to make it there, even without his uniform being on.

Einone at the odd voice she looks to Marith and blinks, then blinks again, rarely caught at a loss for words she is now

On the verge of following the Queen's commands Engest stops dead at the Queen's pronouncement, and it's ensuing result, "My Queen," he says softly, yet firmly, as he approaches the stock holding the Queen of Andor. "You must not do this," he begins, sparing Kellian a frown at the Captain-General's comment, "You cannot rule the city, or the nation, while bound in a stockade, and Caemlyn and Andor need you now more than ever. Please, reconsider this action, my Queen."

Jzuric rides quietly into the plaza, obviously not expecting the crowd here that stands before him...his eyes immediately go to the LCC who is currently out of uniform.

Einone drifts away from the crowd with a frown, reluctant to leave the scene and especialy the ogier

The bound Queen listens to the booming voice of the kind Ogier. She looks only vaguely surprised at seeing such her here, though. "My good Ogier, a grave injustice has been done--in mine own name. And it is with my name that it must be atoned for. We -shall- get to the bottom of this, but perhaps I have grown too complacent. Perhaps I have forgotten how close to my people I had grown during the Reign of Terror with Moergan the Usurper. If it is for nothing more than to show the good people of Andor that I. am. one. of.them., I submit myself to the Queen's Writ." To Rio, she smiles a bit wanly. "Sister, I much appreciate your concern. Engest and Theowyn can take care of matters while I do my penance here. I have taken too little care of matters of late; I should have suspected something like this would happen." She lowers her voice, then, and murmurs quietly to Rio.

Aislynn is bound in the stocks, next to Kellian--her brother and Captain-General of the Queen's Guard, who is also bound in a pair of stocks.

Kellian looks back at Aislynn. His agreement with action might have been a calculated attempt to get the opposite response. He says softly to her,"They are right about your safety Aislynn. And you are more important to Andor then I. We can not both remain here for three days. But they are wrong about one thing..those people..they are Andor, and if they are against you..then there is no Andor for you to govern." this last is likely aimed at Engest and those that protested.

Rio sighs and nods to the Queen. She mutters to Aislynn, "... well... least... not... stocks so... protected. I... as... more... as..."

Under any other circumstances, Elyse would smile at the affectionate or reassuring squeeze that Theowyn offers her hand whle he remains her escort, but matters at present do not permit that smile to grace her Kandori features. Yet again, she remains silent, an expression of mild frustration over the situation and her feelings of uselessness to assist.

Rezna decides to put his 2 cents in since he's the only one here blunt enough to do it. With his hands in his pockets he comes ambling up to the stocks. Size making it easy for him to get around people.

Kellian says quietly,"Why am I not surprised to see you in the midst of all this, Ambassador?" Kellian says as he sees Rezna approaching.

Aislynn turns to Kellian, after listening to Rio, her advisor. She mutters to Kellian, "Brother,... politic for... be... that... protection? One of us... will... the..."

Inarin just sort of stares, openly, at the Queen. His jaw is almost slack.

Rezna speaks up after another amused moment of contemplation. "Forgive me for saying so Queen Aislynn...but if I were your enemy...and I were watching you right now...I would be making preperations to see to it that your body left the stockades only after your head had been detached."

"Would it not be more of an injustice for the Queen herself to be placed in more shame? A ruler must appear strong to her people, yet compassionate. If the rumors of these misfortunes are true, why not hold a true Bounty for the people, give them back what was taken from them, rather than placing yourself where the people may be rid of their Queen entirely?" The Eldest answers, her voice once more resonationg in a musical candor across the plaza. "You will do no one any good, should an arrow fell you, your Majesty."

Einone nods slightly and murmers 'Not like going in the stocks actualy be helpin anyone'

Jzuric lets the corners of his mouth roll up at that comment....though no more than that.

Rezna shrugs with that annoying smile as he looks to Kellian. "Odd coincidence I suppose." Seems he's always right in the middle of everything

Jzuric scans the rooftops out of habit when an arrow is mentioned.

Aislynn replies to both Rezna and the Ogier Elder: "If there are Andorans who wish to harm me, and if I must fear my own safety in Caemlyn's streets amongst my own people, then, as Kellian so wisely has said, there -is- no Andor for me to protect."

Einone shakes her head and murmers again 'Not just andorans what the Queen dead' she tries to keep quiet but her words carry

Rezna just shakes his head and ambles off. Such a cavalier attitude. WIll be fun to see what ends up happening to her. He goes to the tavern to see what the odds are going to end up being on the bets that are likely to start wizzing about. He's got 5 marks that says she lasts 1 day and half into the evening.

The Eldest shakes her head sadly, her tufted ears drooping against her head. "And how do you know it will be Andorans who'd be the one to kill you. What of the recent dangers of Murandy? Would you let yourself fall prey to their attacks? I have stayed in the Palace for some time and heard such thigns about this land. Some whisper rumors of war between the nations, yet that is not something I see." Marith continues to speak, pausing a moment to let Aislynn absorb her words, "Would you let your nation go defenseless when the wolves come to prey upon her lands?"

Some Guardsman have gathered now as word has spread about the actions of the Queen and their commander. A Lieutenant among them steps forward. "The Queen will be safe, whether she is secluded in the palace, walking the streets of Caemlyn or held here in the Plaza of her own choice. We will protect her." The others behind him, a sizable group give a cheer of sorts in response to the Lieutenants promise.

"But the good Ogier is not wrong about the Bounty," Aislynn states, attempting to relax her shoulders a bit and make herself as comfortable as possible in the stocks. "The Guard shall distribute the Queen's Bounty--the -true- Bounty of the Queen--for the rest of this evening."

Kellian nods at Aislynn and looks at Marith and then Engest and even Rio,"We will suffer this so that all Andor will see..but it does not mean we will stand silent. Aislynn is still Queen here. Whether her order are issued from the throne or from these stocks."

Jzuric rides around the outskirts of the crowd trying to get a good look at those near the front by the Queen...the most dangerous rocks are always under your hull.

Elyse frowns, her head swiveling between voices as they chime and offer coucil to the Queen on how to conduct herself. Not that she really agrees with Aislynn's decision, but, she's never experienced this much near open rebellion.

Inarin just keeps staring at Aislynn. Out of uniform, really, he is just another face in the crowd. He blends.

Engest sighs again, and seems to sturdy himself for the comments he opens his mouth to make, "My Queen," he begins evenly, "This is a frivolity. Do you honestly believe the people will respect you /more/ for publically humiliaiting yourself and exposing yourself to more danger than this simple situation warrants? You have said that you are not the one who has brought these unfortunate events about, and I for one believe you." He takes another breath, and continues, "Would the Amyrlin allow herself to suffer a penance in public? Of course not. If you must suffer some penance to assuage your guilt over this matter, it needs not come at the expense of the mockery that will result from such a gesture as this. Please," he continues earnestly, "Come away from this act before this situation becomes irreperable. Your offer to suffer this ignominy will be a true tale which will earn you respect. To actually submit to such outrageous treatment will do more harm to your rule than good.

Theowyn's scratches as at his cheek with his free hand as he watches this, still unconvinced for its merit. He does actually further nod in agreement to Marith's words. "Thank-you Eldest, I concur. But the decision has been made." Those words come out softly, as Theowyn knows all too well that stubborness is not a trait that is well challenged within those of his blood. "Insure there safety," he manages to say to another Guard that is nearby, feeling better in producing the casual order, as he looks to his brother with a hopeful glance. "My Queen." Theowyn leads himself into a formal bow, one with his knee going to the ground. There is an urging to guide Elyse to this action as well, as he simply accepts her decision and bows before her as he would for any order.

Einone nods in agreement with Engestm for what the agreement of an arafellian novice in ador is worth anyway

Rio looks at Kellian and through some means pitchs her voice to his ears alone, She mutters to Kellian, "... will... stand guard... from harm? She... very... Please make sure... this."

"Your pain sings in my ears Queen Aislynn. I will further mourn Andor, should the wolves come to prey during your time of self-imposed incarceration. For in those days she will be without Queen." Marith makes a small tsking sound, shaking her head from side to side. "Sometimes, a ruler must endure the pains of her nation, but not so much so that she places herself where she can no longer aid her nation." Believing that there's not much more she can say or do to help aid the situation, the Eldest starts to make her way for the Palace once more, a saddened melancholy about her.

Aislynn contemplates her Uncles words, her icy eyes locked with his. The Guards who have just locked her in the stocks stand nearby, seeming on the point of freeing her whether she will or no--and face her wraith later. The Queen's jewels drip from their hands like alms.

Finally, Inarin starts maneuvering through the crowd a bit more, clearing the way so that he can get a better look at the queen. Though he was in front, he was off to the side, and now he wants to be front and center.

Kellian nods at Rio, and his voice rings clear and deep. "With my last breath, Rio Sedai, if need be." he leans close to Aislynn then. "Your presence among the people when your bounty is distributed might go far to lessen their fears. I hate to say this, but I think they are right. You walk among them, to reassure those that still believe in you, and to challenge those that don't. Remind them of the days when you lived among them in exile. Remind them who you are. Let your voice be heard throughout the city this night. That is the true Queen's Bounty. ..though some food in the right places would go far to ease some suffering..and repair your damaged reputation."

Jzuric keeps watch on several in the thick of the action....though Rio Sedai warrents the bulk ofhis attention.

Elyse bends knee to a formal courtly curtsey with Prince Theowyn, her head bowed and her hand resting respectfully over her bosom, deferentially. Yet the Kandori Princess offers more, nearly costing herself conflict from her own country she begins to issue forth, in such a well-practiced, and trained soprano voice, none other than Andor's anthem, "For-ward the White Lion!...For-ward the White Lion!...the White Lion takes the field...Roar defiance at the Shadow!...For-ward the White Lion!...Forward, Andor Triumphant!!" She lifts herself with such dignity and pride, her voice resonating in a similar though more soprano manner as the Ogier, in an effort to sing out above the crowd, and she repeats the anthem, hoping to influence those patriots of this nation to take up the anthem with her.

Tears almost well up in Aislynn's eyes as the Kandori Princess sings the Andoran national anthem so beautifully. That, coupled with her brother's words, rouses her to motion. "Release me!" she commands the Guards, though not in a belligerant tone: instead in one of exaltation.

Einone rolls her eyes and limps off muttering about something in the air down south

Rezna frowns. So much for his bet.

Marith does pause long enough to listen to the anthem, but then continues onward inside the Palace.

Jzuric frowns....what light of respect he had grown for this Queen in the last few minutes having now totally departed.

Marith is provided with an armed escort while on the Palace grounds, and any weapons are taken.

Marith has left.

Einone leaves the Queen's Plaza, headed north.

Einone has left.

The Guards now seem -utterly- confused. Lock me up. Release me. Distribute the Bounty. Confiscate the Bounty. Has the Queen lost her mind, as some have whispered? The Guards make no move to release her; they stand motionless, looking back and forth at each other, seeming about to place -themselves- in the stocks for lack of volition to do -anything- that they might later be punished for. Or to obey an order that very well could be countermanded, and then counter-countermanded, in three minute's time.

Kellian bellows,"Release the Queen!" And they'd better move then.

It is a genuinely sorry position for any soldier to be in...The people are angry witht hem for following orders...The Queen is angry with them for following orders...Their general is angry with them. They're trying tofigure out what the hell they did to earn themselves all this.

Theowyn continues to kneel before his sister and Queen, almost getting teary eyed himself from the singing. He does look to Elyse with that sense of pride, a certain joy being taken in her voice. At the command to be released, he hides that relieved sigh.

And they do release the Queen.

They are soldiers. They will take comfort in following orders they can believe in. Releasing the Queen is one such order.

Released from the stocks, Aislynn seems unruffled by the disarray of her clothing now. The hems of her skirts are spattered with mud and one sleeve is ripped from the workings of the stocks. She moves away from the device, and looks just the slightest bit sheepish for the briefest of seconds. Then she looks with concern at Kellian. "I shall return. Once I distribute the Bounty, I will be back to check on you, brother."

Kellian nods,"Perhaps you could send the Lion's Claw to watch over me?" He says with a faint smile. But it vanishes quickly as he looks out at the faces of the crowd. "We are losing this battle, my sister. I think you will win us some ground this night.."

Aislynn lifts her chin stubbornly at Kellian's comment. "We lose -nothing- brother. As long as there is breath in my body...blood in my veins..I will fight for Andor. The knave responsible for this -shall- be found out. And woe to she that is responsible!"

Elyse 's hands tremble as her voice fades, apparenly without any of those about to take up with her. This was a moment for the Princess indeed, as she has refused to perform her voice before anyone in years. Her guards know this, and they regard her with quizzical looks, some even frowning, as Elyse sings the anthem to *another* nation. They remain there for her protection however, and as Elyse ceases her lilting voice, her bosom heaves from the exhilaration and anxiety of putting herself on such display. She moves a little bit closer to Theowyn, using his arm as a guide, her head bending a bit and seeking his shoulder.

Engest nods in satisfaction at the Queen's recovery of decorum, although he elects to remain silent.

Theowyn stands slowly to his feet, his arm moving around Elyse's waist as he reaches to place a light kiss on her cheek. "That was beautiful, Princess," he praises quietly, indeed moving her into a tighter embrace. Though he nods quietly with Aislynn's words, for the most part he is far too satisfied to see her out of the locks. Leading Elyse away by a few steps, he once again begins to watch the crowds.

Jzuric stands out on horseback in the rear of the crowd...in the garrison uniform of the CoL, but still CoL indeed.

Inarin's still in the front of the crowd, gaze still locked on the Queen of Andor.

Rio smirks a bit at the singing princess, but refrains from comment. Her attention, rightly so, is upon her friend the Queen of Andor. Rio Sedai seems quite relieved that the woman is coming to her senses at last.

Caenna enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Caenna has arrived.

Caenna returns to the plaza, not looking overly pleased with something. She rejoins Rio qwithout a word.

Rezna has left.

Jane enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Jane has arrived.

Rio nods to the white sister as she arrives. "Did your matter resolve itself to your satisfaction, Sister?" The tensions are winding down and Rio Sedai is satisfied that all will be well once more. She can devote more time to Caenna if she needs it.

Jane walks rapidly into the Square. Rapidly, that is, until she sees the high-ranked crowd. She stops, a good long distance away, to watch.

Kellian is in the stocks with some of his Guardsman near at hand standing..well..standing guard. A crowd is watching still, most of the tension is gone from them and they are likely slowly dispersing. Word that the Queen's Bounty is to be distributed tonight circles among them. Some venture close to those stocks to look at the Captain General, murmering about him being there. Some look at him with displeasure, others are openly moved by what they've seen this night, and some just don't know what to think.

Caenna replies softly, "No, Sister. I think not."

Inarin shakes his head. "Why," he mutters, "do I get the feeling that some of this was my fault?" He folds his hands together behind his back, taking one step forward.

Engest turns to Theowyn, bending close to the First Prince, He mutters to Theowyn, "... I believe... Captain... is..." he notes with a wry chuckle.

You sense Engest turns to Theowyn, bending close to the First Prince, "Ironic, no? I believe the wrong Captain General is in the stockade," he notes with a wry chuckle.

Jane blinks. Stocks? Him? Jane frowns, weaving her way a bit closer.

The rumors might already be starting,"..put himself there in place of this poor man the queen was punishing.." "No..that's not it..The Queen is punishing him.." "You are both wrong.."

The young Queen, no less imperious or regal for her besmattered clothing, waves a pale hand to a contigent of Guards: "Prepare the Bounty. Thrice the usual amount, to make up for the injustice that has been done in Our name." The Guards thus admonished bustle off efficiently to the Palace.

Engest turns to Theowyn, bending close to the First Prince, "Ironic, no? I believe the wrong Captain General is in the stockade," he notes with a wry chuckle.

Rio glances over at Engest with a slight frown at his words.

A Town Crier walks the streets, crying out:

Word circulates swiftly through the city, originating from the centre of disturbance this night: The Queen's Plaza. Crowds begin to line the streets in every quarter, for the Queen's Bounty is to be distributed tonight...by the Queen's own hands.

(Message sent by Aislynn.)

Halraid enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Halraid has arrived.

Halraid frowns as he hears some of the town cryers he moves to the closest person "what is the queen's bounty?"

Elyse actually manages a weak smile, a combination of bashfullness, and relief at hearing she was in part instrumental in the Queen's decision to release herself from the stocks. She of course remains on Theowyn's arm as he begins to move away, and her Kandori Honor Guard move with the couple.

Kellian spots Jane in the group of onlookers. He offers a faint nod, though the motion of his head is restricted somewhat by the stocks.

Rio sighs and glances over at the arriving Jane. She inclines her head to the young woman pleasantly.

Jane returns Rio's nod, nervously. She glances at Kellian, and back to Rio, face confused.

Halraid sniffs softly and tilts his head slightly, he frowns, still not sure what is happening

The Guardsman move forward to try and keep the crowd back, but Kellian calls to his men,"Let them stand. I am here so that they can see the guard is not above the Queen's Writ."

Einone enters the Queen's Plaza from the north.

Einone has arrived.

Einone limps back to the plaza, large glorius eyes scanning the crowd

While she waits the return of the Guard she has dismissed to prepare the Bounty, the Queen busies herself with re-adorning herself with the jewels that were previously stripped from her--of her own volition.

Inarin folds his arms across his chest. He can't get close, of course, with all the guards. Not like he's trying to, though.

Halraid frowns as he tries to listen to the proceedings, he tilts his head again

Anluan has arrived.

Einone pushes through any remianing crowds with a faint scowl heading towards the officals looking for RIo

Theowyn begins to lead Elyse slowly away, in a place where the Kandori guard would likely be more comfortable in offering some protection. He's not far from the Queen and the others, however, his attention going to the Princess. He mutters to Elyse, "I... this... fine,... here?... to... Palace, it... the... course... action."

Elyse senses "Theowyn begins to lead Elyse slowly away, in a place where the Kandori guard would likely be more comfortable in offering some protection. He's not far from the Queen and the others, however, his attention going to the Princess. "I hope this is fine, to be here? We can head to the Palace, it might be the wisest course of action.""

The young Queen of Andor stands near the stocks, Kellian--the Captain-General of the Queen's Guard and the Queen's own brother--is currently secured in the stocks. Aislynn, her fine gown besmeared with mud along the hem and one sleeve torn, stands near her imprisoned brother. A great crowd of Andorans seethes about, some with angry looks upon their faces. The feeling in the air is one of tension.

Halraid frowns slightly and growls in frustration as he can't tell what is happening, he tries to make his way forward, only getting lost in the crowd

Jane turns that questioning look away from Rio, and back to Kellian, and moves a bit closer to where he is.

Anluan comes loping into the Plaza on long, ground eating strides, long for an Andoran that is. Immediately spotting Queen Aislynn, he slips quietly through the tense crowd, not slowing his pace in the least.

Rio sighs a little and seems ready to depart, after all...if the whole andoran guard can't handle this, who can? Not one little Aes Sedai certainly. Rio inclines her head to the confused Jane and gives Kellian a somewhat worried glance before beginning to head back to the palace.

Rio is provided with an armed escort while on the Palace grounds, and any weapons are taken.

Rio has left.

Einone limps in Rio's wake the soft chimming of bells filling the air around her

Einone is provided with an armed escort while on the Palace grounds, and any weapons are taken.

Einone has left.

Kellian says softly,"Hello Jane. You don't look as if you've come to stare like the others.."

Elyse smiles, her cheeks still a little flushed from having sung the Andoran national anthem, and the general commotion surrounding her. The Kandori Honor Guard seem generally pleased at Theowyn's movement to a better vantage point to protect the Princess, but they say nothing. Elyse inclines her head to the Prince's words, however, remaining still on Theowyn's arm, She mutters to Theowyn, "... my... trust your..."

You sense Elyse smiles, her cheeks still a little flushed from having sung the Andoran national anthem, and the general commotion surrounding her. The Kandori Honor Guard seem generally pleased at Theowyn's movement to a better vantage point to protect the Princess, but they say nothing. Elyse inclines her head to the Prince's words, however, remaining still on Theowyn's arm, "By your leave, my Prince. I trust your council."

Caenna is provided with an armed escort while on the Palace grounds, and any weapons are taken.

Caenna has left.

Turning her head, seemingly searching someone out in the thick crowd, Aislynn's eyes fall upon the figure loping through the crowd. Although she does not move from her place near Kellian, she does seem to relax her stance just the slightest bit, as she watches Anluan approach.

Halraid stumbles slightly as he slowly makes his way through the people, upsetting a few people and starts getting jostled

Jane won't get _too_ close to Kellian. She keeps her distance, frowning, folding her arms. All disapproval at the situation. There's guards she'd like to see in there, oh my yes. But not that one.

Anluan comes to a quick halt at his Queen's shoulder, eyes scanning her face briefly before turning to assess the nature of the scene before him and the attitude of the crowd. His hand doesn't grip his sword hilt, but does rest on it, ready. "I came when I felt trouble and heard on the way that you were in the stockades?" he asks Aislynn, eyes darting to the stumbling Halraid as he does so.

Theowyn picks through the people to head toward Aislynn. "Insure my brother is not hurt in those stocks?" he manages a teasing voice, or at least tries at one, eyes constantly scanning the crowd. "I will escort the Princess back to the Palace." Theowyn offers Kellian a reassuring wink.

From The Queen's Plaza: Inner City, Caemlyn, Kellian says " Sorries for being slow, my pup wanted some attention."

Kellian smiles faintly at Theowyn.

"Bloody lovely." Inarin mutters, still watching the scene. He hasn't done anything real major, but then, there's not a whole lot for him to do here, at least just yet.

The faintest hint of a blush creeps into the Queen's pale cheeks, though she seems to disregard it. Perhaps her decision to take such punishment was, indeed--as many told her--unwise. She glances from Anluan to Theowyn, simply nodding assent with her brother's decision. Then she turns back to Anluan: "There has been grave injustice done to one of my subjects--Nay. To many of my subjects. I was attempting to atone for that." With a wry twist of her lips, she adds, "And was summarily talked out of it. I am safe, Anluan."

Halraid gets pushed more to the front of the crowd now, he stubbles again and falls to one knee before he stands again his golden eyes flashing in annoyance, a few people step back from him, apparently spotting his eyes and growing a bit afraid

Elyse falls easily into step beside Theowyn as he slowly maneuvers towards Kellian and others. Her Kandori protectors shadowing their every movement. Not entirely certain who Theowyn addresses, Elyse does not offer a curtsey before she hears Aislynn's voice. At that, sensing that Theowyn will be ushering her to a more secure location in moments, Elyse offers another courtly curtsey to the Queen, head bowed and once more her hand placed over her heart deferentially. "Peace favour you and Light Guide, Your Majesty."

Anluan tilts his head at Aislynn and blinks, the sky blue of his eyes momentarily vanishing. Nodding his acceptance of the explanation, however much he still does not understand, he steps back and takes a position behind the Queen while searching the crowd still, especially the yellow-eyed man up front, "Mostly safe." A glance at Elyse is all he spares the Princess for now, she wasn't addressing him anyway.

Theowyn manages a few more reassured looks, and begins to escort Elyse through the crowd and toward the Palace. But not before giving Anluan a nod that hints on some concerned for the Gaidin. Or rather for Aislynn. He was always an odd one.

Kellian is quiet now as he stands there in the stocks, it is not so bad just yet, years of hardship as a soldier ensure that he can remain in the stocks for a while yet before discomfort or hunger set in.

Inarin watches Theowyn go through the crowd for a moment, then looks back towards Aislynn and Anluan. He folds his hands together behind his back.

Aislynn returns the curtsey to the Kandori Princess, murmuring quietly, "The Light illumine you, Your Highness." She watches the two move off, speculatively, perhaps. Then she turns to Kellian. "Will you be safe here? Shall I stay?" She tilts her head to one side, looking at her elder brother curiously.

Jane looks around, frowning, for someone to explain. She gives up, glances once more at Kellian, and starts to work her way back toward the way she came.