First of all, review responses. If you don't want to hear what may be coming up in this story, I suggest you skip ahead to the fic itself!

Ilona: Not to worry, Amy won't be falling for Rand anytime soon. Especially since every WoT reader I know spends half their time making fun of Rand's "habits" when it comes to females. *falls over laughing* It can get pretty mean, but is all in good fun. There is a chance for a relationship with another Emond's Fielder, but not a main canon character. I'm not sure exactly how well it would turn out, but who I mean will eventually become obvious. It depends on the way the story flows though. I'm a slave to my muse ;-)

Zysch: First of all, thank you for such a detailed review! I agree, the prologue is much too choppy, which is admittedly one of my weak points. ^-^ Always has been, but it's a definite improvement from when I started my writing. Scary days, those were. I'll definitely have to check out our story and leave a review. :-)

Funny you should mention Artur coming. That was the actual plot I started fiddling with, but decided to try and work with someone who didn't know much about the Age of Legends. It leaves more room for learning (and a great way to cover my stupidity;-P) As for Artur coming later on, it's a definite possibility. I think Amy would love to see her grandfather because she was close to him, and he'd be a definite asset.

On the topic of her training, she'll be advancing as fast as she can. Amy's not going to intentionally put herself in the danger of severing herself, because she's eager to learn and really wants to help Rand and the others. She has the advantage of knowing what some of the future holds and will therefore take special consideration of drawing too much of the power. She's been given enough warnings, and she (hopefully) has enough common sense.

Amy's strength in the power will be stronger then the average AS in the Age, because her blood isn't as far removed from the AOL and whatnot, but not so amazingly powerful that she'll beat Lanfear in confrontation or not have to struggle with learning. That would just not be plausible. I'm hoping to make her experiences realistic.

On the topic of timelines: She's landed one year before TEoTW, since she's "of age" with Egwene. If calculations serve me, Egwene is eighteen at the beginning of the story. (She's two years younger then Rand, who was born at the end of the Aiel War, twenty years before). She's going to have to learn to adapt to life in the Two Rivers, but in the end that will help when she has to travel. It gives her the chance to know the some of the people, and realize what she's fighting for. It will also play an indirect role in CC's relationships, as you mentioned.

As for the WT reaction to her, we'll just have to see. I mean, they aren't exactly fond of wilders as it is, and for her to do it intentionally, without guidance from their knowledge, it will definitely make her unpopular. But by the same token they'll see her as an opportunity, because she's developed that much without guidance (to their knowledge, that is). Typical AS dilemma. ;-)
Ilyena's control in tel'aran'rhiod has yet to be determined, especially since she seemed unaware of time until Amy came. But if she could be used to alter it, she could very well change events in a major way.

Your taint theory is positively fascinating, BTW. As I've said, I haven't actually finished the books (yeah, number one Mary Sue writer sign *rolls eyes*) but from what I can gather makes sense.

I intend to stick to the major storyline, but Amy's presence will alter events inevitably. So, I can't honestly say one way or another. For example, she's not going to stop the events of Winternight, but fate has a funny way of twisting around anyone, not only ta'varen.

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Disclaimer: Sorry, I don't own WoT. I do own insanity, all ten released WoT books, a bookmark of great desire and the death glare that scares every guy I know except one! And he can just take my bookmark and bite it! And then deal with the fact I have Crossroads of Twilight and he' still waiting for it his name to reach the top of the waiting list at the library! Muhahaha! That's what I own. Oh yeah, and an insane ability to sing random French songs! Yes, you heard me, random French songs! Being Canadian rocks!

Oh yeah, there's supposed to be a story here, isn't there?

Without further ado…

(Excluding the warning you could skip 90% of this chapter and be further ahead then you would if you read the entire thing)

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Amy awakened to the sound of chirping birds, and promptly fell out of the bed. A quick glance around the room assured her that she was indeed at the Winespring Inn. This would take some getting used to.

Memories of her dreams danced in her mind. Ilyena had not been of any help. She had asked a few questions, mentioned a few names, and then went back into quiet contemplation. Given time, Amy knew that she had a better teacher then anyone else in this world. But time was the issue. How long did she have?

Mulling the situation over in her mind, she picked up her possessions from their arrangement on the floor. She gave a slight grimace at her riding dress, which was covered in mud. She would have to ask Mistress al'Vere about laundry. She quickly pulled on the pants- excuse her, breeches – and the second blouse. The blouse's material was durable, yet stretchable. A comfortable fit, all in all. The leather belt was fastened around her waist, after a quick count of her funds. A medium sized pouch filled with silvers and coppers. Hopefully it would be enough to live on. She looked at the knives –she had to admit they were a fine design, and the balance was remarkable- but left them where they were. She hoped she wouldn't need them, not here.

She took a deep breathe. It was time to face what the day would bring.

~*~*~

"Well, I'm just saying, that Wisdom is much too young. I have children older then she is."

"And I'm just saying, that is purely Women's Circle business. And that is a beehive I would rather avoid sticking my hand into."

Amy recognized Master al'Vere's voice before she reached the common room. Arguing over the Wisdom, were they? Nynaeve would likely rap them over the head with her stick if she ever found out.

The assembled Village Council looked up when they heard someone enter the room. Bran had mentioned he had a guest, but what they were facing was the last thing they expected.

A child, or a woman barely old enough to braid her hair. She was taller then most women in the Two Rivers, but with the same dark colouring. Large brown eyes dominated her face, which was masked by chestnut brown hair that fell just past her shoulders in light waves. She was undoubtedly pretty, but in an innocent manner. Her small smile seemed to hold a hidden joke. She stood at the doorway, watching them.

And she was dressed in the clothes of a man!

"I'm sorry gentlemen, I seem to have interrupted something. I will come back later, if it would suit you better."

Her voice was soft, and carried a slight hint of meekness. That was something new. A meek woman in the Two Rivers was as likely as a Coplin lasting a day without some trivial complaint.

"Nonsense Melime," said Bran, hurrying to his patron. "Would you like some breakfast? I am sure Marin will fix you something."

"I am fine. But I do have a question to ask. In my last stop, my bow was misplaced. I have heard nothing but good things about Two Rivers longbows, and I was wondering if you may know where I may be able to purchase one."

Whatever images of meekness and innocence the men had created of her were null and void.

"I will see what can be arranged."

"Fine. I will also need instructions on its usage. I haven't handled a long bow in years, with so many swearing by the crossbow. A useless piece of equipment if you ask me, but there are some things you have no control over." Not completely true, but she doubted her few archery lessons could be passed for the skills a woman travelling alone must possess. "And if there is anyone who can handle a sword, I wouldn't mind having a conversation with them."

"I will see what can be arranged," Bran repeated.

"Thank you."

~*~*~

Amy let out a small breathe as she headed out the front door of the inn. She had rehearsed her lines on her way down the stairs, but she was not used to lying to others. It irked her that Bran had decided to arrange what she wanted. She had half a mind to tell him off, but she didn't exactly want a mob of angry Emond's Fielders chasing her out of town either. And to make matters worse, she had stolen a glance at the clock on the mantle. Almost noon already. It would be a long say.

Goodwives were in their yards, finishing their spring cleaning. Children were playing on the main street, laughing. She walked slowly, drinking in the sights. This could be the reason she did not notice the young man tearing down the street until she ran into him.

She grunted in surprise, and stumbled backwards.

"Sorry," he managed to wheeze out before setting off again.

He was only a few feet away when a woman's voice was heard.

"Matrim Cauthon! You get back here!"

The woman came around the side of the nearby building, looking furious. Flour stained the front of her apron, and Amy laughed.

"Do you find something funny about this child?" The woman asked.

"Of course, ma'am. I am afraid that this is the most excitement I have had in months. Not that I don't think the boy should be punished for his behaviour. But it still did me a lot of good." Amy gave an innocent grin.

She returned the smile distractedly, but the tightness around her eyes betrayed her anger.

"Well then child. Perhaps I should go deal with that boy and his behaviour."

"Perhaps you should. But would you know where I could find the Wisdom? I must ask her for a remedy for this headache I have been plagued with." It was a good of an excuse as any to meet Nynaeve, and her head was pounding.

"She was visiting Corin Ayellin today. Try there for starters," she said, giving directions to the house.

"Thank you ma'am." Amy began to walk, then turned to the woman. "Oh, and don't be too harsh with Matrim. He'll only be a boy once. Of course, with men, one childhood lasts an entire life."

~*~*~

A graying woman answered Amy's knock.

"Hello dear, are you looking for Dav? He's off with his friends. But come in, I have some fresh honey cakes that are practically begging to be eaten." Her dark eyes scrutinized Amy form head to toe, and gave a small shake of her head before leading the way inside.

Before she could protest, Amy found herself in the kitchen of the Ayellin home. A younger woman was already in there, a dark braid pulled over one shoulder.

"Hello. Are you Nynaeve? Someone told me I may be able to find you here." She really needed to work on introducing herself.

In a brief moment, Amy found herself sitting, a plate of delicious smelling cakes in front of her. She gently picked up on, popping it into her mouth.

"Mmmmm, so good. That's it, I'm forsaking chocolate," she managed to mutter around her full mouth.

She ate a few more, listening as Nynaeve and Corin discussed Bel Tine preparations. She asked questions when she didn't understand, and they explained the traditions. If Amy was careful, she knew there was a chance she could pull her illusion off.

After drinking some horrid concoction Nynaeve gave her, Amy excused herself. At later times, she would contemplate the next events, and wonder if the Pattern was not throwing her a few good things.

She reached to open the door at the same time as another. She did not sidestep nearly quick enough to avoid him, and for the second time that day she collided with a solid body.

"Sorry, Mistress…" he said. There was something about being called Mistress by someone that was not much older then herself that grated her nerves.

"Melime. Call me Melime or I'll scream. The next person to try that Mistress business will get a good beating."

"Alright, Melime. May I ask why you are here?"

"Visiting your Wisdom. What business is it of yours?"

"I can see you've never heard of manners."

"No, I'm afraid not. And you, country bumpkin, haven't either. It is usually polite to introduce oneself."

"Dav Ayellin."

"Much better."

He gave her a lopsided grin, and she finally got a good look at him. Stocky, but with a general feeling of an easy going manner, he was attractive. Not Hollywood gorgeous, but that hint of mischief in his dark eyes was appealing.

"I apologize for my...behaviour a moment ago…it has been a long journey and I've never been anywhere near here before…it's not been a good week, quite honestly."

"You're forgiven Melime. Everyone gets that way occasionally. So, you're new to the area? How does a guided tour sound? Not much to look at, but I'm sure you'd enjoy it."

"It sounds delightful."

"Come then," he said, leading the way into the afternoon sunlight.


~*~*~

When Amy returned to the Winespring Inn that evening, it was with a weary step. Dav had brought her for the Ayellin Tour of Emond's Field, and she still couldn't get over it. The world was so different then hers. Nobody had much, but everyone was happy. There was no stress, no pollution, and most of all, no feeling of danger. It was incredible. And though Amy knew what the future would hold, she was happy to relax here until it did.

"Here is the inn," her companion said.

"Yes, here it is. Thank you."

"It was no problem," Dav said. "Hey! Rand!"

A tall man Dav's age was just leaving the building. He looked, and then loped over.

"Hello Dav. Who's this lovely young lady accompanying you?"

"Rand, this is Melime. She has come to stay at the inn. She hopes to see Bel Tine here this year. Can you believe that they don't have it where she is from? Melime, this is Rand al'Thor."

"I am pleased to meet you, Rand."

"Rand lad! It is time to go!" called an older man, leading a horse and cart.

"Alright. See you next week Dav. Melime." He tipped his head and walked off.

"Well, see you later Dav. Thank you for the tour, you have some lovely woods."

"Always glad to help."

~*~*~

"Mistress Melime, come eat. You look starved, and Marian has made a delicious stew."

"Thank you Master al'Vere."

Amy sat down at the long bench, and Bran headed for the kitchen. A minute later, a serving girl came out with a bowl of steaming food. She was an average height, and very beautiful.

"You must be Mistress Melime," the woman said, placing the bowl in front of Amy.

"Yes, I am. Are you Egwene? Your parents told me that you would bring me around the village one day."

"I am. Though I was not aware my parents had offered me to do any such thing," she said, grinning. "It would be my pleasure though. I always like to here about places that are far away."

"Tomorrow perhaps then. I feel I should retire for this evening. All that traveling seems to have caught up with me."

"Finish your supper first."

~*~*~

It was only a short while later that Amy found herself in her room, Egwene behind her. The two had hit it off quickly, and Amy knew having an ally would be a great asset in the coming days.

"May I ask what you are here for, Melime?"

The question was surprising, but not unexpected. "I do not wish to discuss it, but perhaps it is best I tell someone. But I do not want this to get out, and you will see why in a minute."

"I will not tell a soul," Egwene vowed.

Amy silently thanked creative writing classes. She had been planning a lie all day, and now was the first time to try it out.

"My father is a minor noble. So minor we are below several wealthy merchants. Which means he follows the codes of nobility even stricter then others. And that includes mingling with 'commoners'. Unfortunately for him, I was quite besotted with a young man who lived nearby. The amazing thing is that my father remained oblivious as long as he did. But, all fairytales end, and he found out. He was furious. He quickly set up an arranged marriage with a man twice my age, and mean spirited to boot.

"I told my love, and we knew the only answer was to run away. But we would not be stupid about it. We were to be masquerading as peasants, and I didn't know how. My father had raised me as a lady. But I learned how to sew and cook, as well as other skills to help us survive, and earn a living.

"We almost made it too. But rumours reached my father's ears that his daughter had been seen in the kitchens. He may have been heartless at times, but my father was never stupid. He figured out our plan, and let us escape. But he had Ailin intercepted near our meeting place."

She let her voice drop to a barely audible whisper.

"Close enough that I could hear his scream as my father's men killed him."

She heard Egwene gasp. "What did you do?"

"There was nothing I could do. I fled. I have been looking for a place to stay since, but it always seems that something happens. But with such a small village, I should be safe."

The other woman sat down and embraced her. "I promise that I will not tell a soul what you have told me. If you need to talk, I will be here to listen. It must be hard, with nobody to trust, to confide in. But you can trust me."

"Thank you," said Amy. She felt guilty for lying, but it was better then telling the truth. One day perhaps, Egwene would know the truth. And Amy found herself hoping she wouldn't hate her for it.