A forsaken loves
By: Anarian Sedai of the Battle Ajah
Author's note: I'm not sure if my counting of the years is correct but if it's not, please excuse me. I hope you'll enjoy this story because this is my first fic posted here. Please R & R. TNX
Chapter one
Her fingers clung to silk skirt of the one who sat on the gold gilded chair, her knuckles white as if scrubbed to the bone, her whole hand shaking with her sobs but still holding on tightly. Her slim fingers seemed like talons in the dim light of the fire crackling in the hearth, the only source of light in the windowless room. Her cheeks were stained with blood tears that ran down her cheeks, dripping down her narrow silver dress slashed with yellow. Sweat mingled with the tears making a sticky mess that not only dirtied her dress but also the other's dress which she clung on to. Wisps of dark brown hair had gone astray from the silver net holding up an intricate coil of waist long tresses. "Please, sister, you must keep them away from me!" Even through the sobs, her voice was clear if not a bit shrilly. The other woman who sat on the chair was also crying, tears trickling down to her hands that lay on her lap, her fingers closed around the blue woolen skirt stitched with daffodils and morning glories. In appearance, the woman on the chair and on the floor were much alike, their eyes equidistant from each other were stars that shone with warmth and knowledge and in some cases cold fury like glinting knife edges. They were sisters and members of the royal house of Cairhien but they were not in the line of succession to the throne. The woman on the chair leaned forward to pat her sister's back. A silver chain held up a blue gem set in silver that rested between her brow, the same kind of gem was dangling from her sister's neck on a silver chain.. "I won't let them get you! I will go to Tar Valon on my own." "Promise? " "I do." She guided the woman upward so that her head rested on her lap, "I won't let them take you. I swear on the name of this House." She was sincere but she still had doubts about all of this. She was barely seven years old and her sister was two years younger than her but they already knew about the harsh life outside the palace. And the White Tower. She had heard that sisters were coming tomorrow to take her to be a novice because the White tower had found out that she had a strong spark in the gift. So did her sister but along with her gift was something that was a curse for her , which kept her screaming in her sleep. "Listen to me, Moira, tomorrow, I want you to hide. If what your dreams tell is true, you must keep away from Aes Sedai. You have to hide!" The girl sniffed and wiped the tears, "Will I be safe from you? You are going to become Aes Sedai!" Her sister slowly nodded, "Even if I am Aes Sedai, I will not break my promise to you."
Chapter two
The dawn glinted through the glass on the window casting different colors on the cold marble floor, the warmth of the new morning waking her up as usual. But this morning was not filled with the light feeling of living a new day, she was full of fear and anxiety as if she knew something terrible had happened and something worse was going to happen. She shivered in the faint light and fumbled around the room to find decent robe. Elaida wasn't the only fortune teller in Tar Valon. Moira Damodred, a relative of the former Galldrian Damodred King of Cairhien, was a Dreamer and a strong one to boot. All of her dreams told of the foredooming of many things in very specific ways. Like the fall of Ebou Dar to the Seanchan, she had dreamt of that, though many in the White Tower doubted that, she knew for a fact that it was true. And Light burn Elaida for not believing her! Moira sighed and groggily dragged her feet toward the wash basin, a porcelain masterpiece by the Sea Folk, standing on a polished table all the way from Cairhien, this was actually one of the many furniture in her old room in the palace that she moved when she became an Aes Sedai. A mirror hung on the wall showing her the gray pallor that was part of the smooth Aes Sedai serenity. No signs of age yet but stress and hard life had given her a weary and wary twinkle in her eye and she walked as if she carried a great weight though she only did it in private. Splashes of cold water gave her new vigor but she feared that it would not last the day. A sudden rap on the door bought her attention to her anteroom. Tying the sash on her robe, she entered the anteroom-shock entering every fiber in her body-at the sight of the Amyrlin Seat and the Keeper staring or studying her as if she were a novice. Elaida's eyes were narrow as if she had done something against the Tower. Alviarin's eyes were cool with bitterness, something that rarely left her face these days. "Good morning, mother.Alviarin." She forced a calm voice even though she was starting to itch with curiosity to find out why they were in her chambers this early in the morning. She drew her robe closer to her body to cover what some thought as a too ample a bosom. "Good Morning daughter." Elaida's voice was crisp and hard to drive any knife into steel. "We have news concerning what you called the Seanchan and their attack on Ebou Dar and Amadicia. So you have been telling the truth. I hope it is the whole truth! I have confidence in you daughter. But we do not believe they have ter'angreal that can control a woman's flow of the power!" Moira nodded, sweeping away towards the table holding a tray of cakes and a cup of tea, which had gone cold. She channeled to warm it before taking it in her hands. Behind her, Alviarin tapped her foot impatiently. "The mother has called the hall to sit. We expect you to be there in ten minutes, no more." She sipped slowly then replied, "I will be there, Alviarin." She turned and strolled towards them, her silk robe sweeping the floor, making swishing sounds like wings flapping. "May I ask, mother what we will be sitting for?" Elaida opened her mouth to speak but Alviarin cut her, which produced a snort from the Amyrlin Seat. A snort! From Elaida! Now that was something she had hardly seen! "You will know when we sit. Good day, Moira." Alviarin swept away, literally dragging Elaida with her without the use of her hands. Elaida's eyes glinted with fury at what had just happened. Who could blame her, anyway? Her handsome face showed calm but her eyes said otherwise. Moira curtsied and waited for the door to close before looking up. Burn Alviarin! If she wasn't so obviously hungry for the Amyrlin seat, she would have been with Cadsuane by now in Cairhien! But she had to be so and Moira was forced to stay and spy for Cadsuane, something she felt she had grown accustomed to. A sitter for the battle ajah spying for another green, that was not unheard of. But this time, she worked with a legendary sister and she spied inside the white tower. Of course, Cadsuane could have done that herself but why she had been chosen was out of her league. Moira sighed and snapped her finger. On the other side of the room, a door quickly opened and a man entered, his pace slow but purposeful. He wore snug breeches of wool and a blue coat embroidered with humming birds and lilies. His surprisingly waist long hair was let down with a few braids in it, each with a small bell tied at the end so that it chimed like the wind whenever he swayed his head. Like now. "Good morning, Moira." His low voice held little gruff, something she looked in all men she met because she believed that men with gruff voices were ones that caused a lot of trouble. That had been proven wrong before but on the other hand, it had proven itself true too. "Same to you, Logain. It is a good thing you do not wear your.you know what." She channeled to light a fire in the hearth, walking towards it while keeping a keen eye on the man. He chuckled, "I can be smart when I want to. When it is needed too." He barked a laugh and settled in a brocade chair opposite her, "Besides, I wouldn't like seeing you doing penance for keeping an Asha'man in your quarters." "Thank you." She sat down and crossed her ankles. Logain Ablar, who had grown his hair had once been a false dragon, stilled and mysteriously returned to power, and he was from the Black Tower and that didn't scare her one wit. She first knew about the Black tower when she had gone into seclusion after her first warder died seven years ago. Thinking incessantly about Druce do'Angtar a'Banere, her warder who had died confronting shadow hounds at the young age of thirty three, she had stumbled on their training ground. Mazrim was still young and handsome, a fact she couldn't deny, and he was yet willing to help those who were in distress but with a high price. So she was consoled and while that was going on, she gained knowledge on the black tower, their hierarchy, their rules and everything else, something the whole white tower would kill to know. Now, she was the only sister who was allowed to pass into the black tower freely with no guards and no one questioning her. That came with a price, one small enough to pay, and an oath that dictated she tell no one of the tower and its goings-on lest they hunt her down and still her. So far she hadn't betrayed them and had no thoughts of doing so because this relationship was something too valuable to break. Besides, Logain was the only man with whom she let her feelings show because he was a close friend and she wasn't about to destroy that. Cadsuane, however though she was her mentor, knew nothing about this. "You know, Moira, you had better get ready for that gathering lest they find something suspicious going on." She channeled a ward for eavesdropping and shrugged. "The hall can wait. What news have you?" he raked his hair with his fingers, "Let's see.Rand Al'Thor has returned to Cairhien, killing Adley first because he used Callandor against the Seanchan in Altara." Her eyes widen at that. "Yes, he had Narishma get callandor, almost getting Narishma killed in the process. I don't know why he has to use that. It is enough that he surpasses all of the black tower but he wants to use a sa'angreal too? Light!" She smoothen her robe over her lap, "callandor? Is that boy mad! It will kill him before Tarmon Gai'don!" Logain frowned, "Moira, is there something I should know about?" She bit her lip and hesitated. She knew what callandor did, but if she told Logain, would she risk him getting bashed up for telling Al'Thor this? Rumors had it that Cadsuane was with Rand, most likely she had already told him but if she hasn't and Logain went to tell him. "Callandor magnifies the taint on saidin.only a man linked with two women, one of them controlling the flow, can use it." Logain visibly shuddered, "what happens if a man uses it alone?" "I told you.he dies." Silence descended upon them, something she always avoided but this time it couldn't be avoided, and both of them needed it to think. The sun outside shone weakly among the gray clouds, the snow not ceasing in its fall. A rap on the door, brought her attention. Releasing the ward, she gave permission for entry. Waes, a honey colored strong chinned woman younger than her entered with a slight frown on her face at the sight of Logain as Moira warded the room again. She was Andoran, having strict beliefs on men and women like one that dictated no man should see a lady if the lady was only in her robe with no slippers. Moira smiled and motioned her to come closer. Waes's frown deepen but she still obeyed, a silver comb clutched with fingers that were strong enough to strangle Logain should he do anything crooked. "Milady, you know this is not proper. You in only a robe, Light knows what he will do!" She never bothered to lower voice which made Logain chuckle. "I am honorable, dear lady!" He cried in amusement while getting up. Moira stood up too beside Logain, giving Waes and innocent smile. "It is alright, Waes! How many times must I tell you that Logain is trustworthy?" "Bah!" She spat, "Druce was trustworthy but he got himself killed! What will he do to break your heart again?" She jerked her head towards Logain, walking towards Moira's chamber, the brush tapping the palm of her hand. Since her back was turned, she didn't see Moira flinched with the reminder of it. Logain caught it and sighed. "Waes, I take my leave." He gave Moira an apologetic look before turning back to his chambers which once had been Moira's office. She had it made into a bedroom while her room was expanded to include a study. Waes grunted and walked towards Moira, getting hold of her hand and pulling her into her chambers. "I do not know why you mingle with men like him! Bah! The Light will deal with them soon!" Moira wriggled in her grasp and sighed when she didn't let go. Waes almost pushed her on the bed in her irritation. Was her mistress going mad? Men like that Logain, pretty as anything and smooth-tongued as honey, would get killed in battle if they didn't run away with a tavern maiden first and he would break her poor heart. Just like Druce. Just like Moiraine. She swept into an adjacent room and soon reappeared with a narrow green dress embroidered with lilies on the sleeves, neckline and hem with white slashes; a girdle plated with golden leaves served as her belt. All but getting shoved into it, Moira was dressed in less than the time one would take to say ta'veren, Waes clucking like a hen about her waist length hair. "We should do something about that hair of yours, Mistress." At once she began running the brush she held violently down the tresses. If she were any other girl, Moira would have screamed in pain as she felt the strands being viciously pulled out of their roots. Being Aes Sedai, she remained as calm as she cold. "Waes, do you have to be so violent in brushing my hair?" She asked coolly, "You could brush it more gently." "Bah! It's to teach you a lesson! I hope you aren't choosing him as a replacement for Druce!" She spat, continuing with the harsh brushing. "Do not speak of him unless you mean to speak with a little respect, Waes. You know that grief is still too near my heart." She sniffed to make her point. Waes snorted in answer, "Is that why you are going for the likes of him?" Moira swiftly turned and caught Waes's hand, holding it tight enough to make anyone flinch but she only smiled wryly, "Listen well because I will not repeat myself. Logain is a friend, nothing more. Druce was my warder and my lover and I will not have you disrespect him.or me for that matter. Nothing can ever replace him! Do you understand?" she hissed in anger. Waes only nodded, her lips curling up into a bigger grin. Moira was famous for her temper so that many sisters avoided pricking her. Waes on the other hand was thought by many to be foolish to set herself as Moira's handmaid but this didn't affect her one bit because she had a weapon that she could always use on Moira. Druce had been her friend and Moira was not going to taint her relationship with Druce by hurting her. "I understand, Moira." She whispered. Fire flashed in her mistress' eyes but only for a heartbeat before she got up and exited her room. Waes followed her, their velvet slippers hardly making a sound on the marble floor. Out through the door and down the corridor they went, through sweeping vaulted halls, down sweeping stairways until they reached the Hall. There Moira stopped in front of the doors and turned to her. "I want you to check on the doves. See if they have any messages for me. See that my guest has something to eat." Waes curtsied and replied acquiescence. Looking satisfied, Moira entered the hall, leaving her to carry out her task. Waes smiled again. Moira may be the mistress today but there was always tomorrow.
Chapter three
Elaida shifted the six striped stole on her shoulders and strained her ears to listen to the Sitters talk. Everything left her head even as she tried to grasp it firmly in her fingers because of the headache that had launched itself on her. Why did it have to come today? Why did the Hall have to sit? Burn Alviarin! She sighed and shifted in her seat and stared forward at the faces before her. Moira caught her eye as she sat straight back but relaxed in her seat, the image of royal bearing of Cairhien. She frowned. Moira was ten, if not twenty, times stronger than the strongest sister in the tower and twice as strong as the whole white tower, novices, accepted and sisters together. It was a frightening fact because she had strength in all five powers whilst others only had strength in one or two at the most. Another disturbing fact was that, though she was battle ajah, she seemed more fitting for the grays, she was the only sitter who did not take an oath to capture the dragon reborn and keep him safe. Her reason was for mediating purposes, it was vague but it suited Elaida because it meant that she feared the Amyrlin seat and would not swear to do anything she knew she would most likely fail in. wise for someone whose sister was a complete fool. Moiraine was the exact mirror image of Moira though she was two years older, both had a thirst for justice, Moiraine for how her sister was pulled to the White Tower despite the girl's pleas not to because she would surely die and Moira for her dead warder and sister. That wiped the frown off Elaida's face. She knew about how the greens were possessive of their warders but she was surprised to find a green making her warder also her lover. Before, there had been written records of greens who had married their warders but she didn't expect to actually find something like it in her time. And to have Moira whose temper was famous in it too. She had seen Druce, and truthfully, she had found him attractive, his unruly mop of amber curls that tumbled down to his shoulders, veiling a face that had clear blue eyes, a generous mouth always upturned in a boyish smile and those cheeks tinged with pink. Indeed, he almost made the sisters talk in ribald language the first time he had come to the White tower. Many wished that they could get him as their warder and she was one of them but he already had his eyes set on Moira, then a newly raised novice. He waited patiently and so did Moira, while the other sisters fumed at being turned down. When she was bought up to the shawl, they immediately bonded thus causing old anger to rekindle. Druce smothered it however and everything went back as it was. Except that Elaida was furious that she hadn't gotten him and that she was in the red ajah. "Mother." Moira's voice cracked her thoughts, making her blink despite herself. "what is it, daughter?" "Mother, we must discuss the matter about the dragon reborn." One of the red sitters answered. Heads nodded in agreement. Ah, the dragon reborn! Something that wanted her to sick up. "Go ahead, daughter." Moira stood up before the red could speak earning an icy glare and a few muttered words. "If I may mother, I would like to suggest to the hall that I be sent to Cairhien, to the dragon reborn. I can do many things there for the greater glory of the White Tower." But not for your glory anyway. Elaida sat forward, her curiosity piqued by what had been said, "Really, daughter? Send you to the Dragon Reborn?" "Yes mother." Moira bowed her head. "Do you know you have value in the tower because of your power and your agents?" True. She had more agents than anyone right now except for Suian Sanche. "If he stills you-or worse kills you-then we will lose something very important! Do you understand daughter?" "Yes mother. But I don't see why I shouldn't be sent there besides those reasons you gave, mother. I am a familiar face there and there is a chance that I can slip pass him unnoticed. I have agents who are close to him, mother." Cadsuane? Her agent? Moira wanted to laugh. "Really? Then I don't see why you shouldn't go!" Elaida sat back in her chair. May be this was her chance to kill her without getting stained. Light, knows how much she wanted her to go away! Did she mention that Moira also did not swear fealty to her? No. But since Moira was more powerful and she possessed a temper, Elaida wasn't about to risk a confrontation. It may look like cowardice but in a way, it was a way for Elaida to survive.
Chapter four
The hall continued to sit well into the early afternoon. Afterwards, Moira climbed up to her chambers, itching to talk with Logain. Surely by now he had gotten something more useful than she did in the Hall. The doves of the Black tower, the personal pigeons of his.she started to tick of a list with her fingers. Yes, he should have gotten a good amount of information by now. Sweeping into the room, she gasped to see Waes shaking against the wall, well away from the two men who were now sitting down and casually sipping tea. Fear nearly made her eyes pop out of their sockets and Moira could just imagine why. One of them was Logain who still didn't look up even as she shut the door and wove a ward against intruders and eavesdropping. The other was a man who was starting to gray at the edges but he still seemed to be an embodiment of menacing strength the way his eyes darted from Waes in quiet annoyance and to Moira with indifferent welcome. This man had no doubt arrived the way Logain did, only he arrived indiscreetly to cause Waes to tremble. "Mazrim, what brings you here?" She asked coolly trying to cover her surprise. "Nice try, Moira but you can't fool me." He answered, setting the cup of tea back on the table. She rolled her eyes heavenwards, swishing her skirt in slight exasperation, "Alright, you had me surprised." She motioned for Waes to go to her room, then covered them in a ward against eavesdropping. Waes maybe her maid but that wasn't a reason to truly trust her. Mazrim smiled with satisfaction, "You certainly know how to do things." She waved it aside and plopped down on the brocaded chair nearest the fireplace. At this, Logain looked from his cup and darted his gaze from his father and Moira before clearing his throat. "There are reports from my spies say that a group of Aes Sedai is headed this way with an army. Lord Bryne as its commander." "Yes, I've dreamt of it. Is this the rebel Aes Sedai?" Logain nodded, "They plan to lay siege on Elaida!" Mazrim barked a laugh, "War on a single person? Who is their Amyrlin seat, if any?" "Egwene Al'vere. An Aes Sedai newly raised to shawl then raised to Amyrlin seat almost immediately after she got the shawl." She tucked her feet under her, "She's a childhood friend of Al'Thor's. Suppose to be his betrothed if he weren't the dragon reborn." Mazrim reached up and fingered his collar. It was then that Moira noticed he wasn't wearing his black coat but a cream shirt unlaced at the neck with a gray coat embroidered with hummingbirds and vines. "His betrothed?" Mazrim chuckled, "I wonder how that girl gets along with him.and to think she wants to declare war on a single person! Now that is something to write in your history books!" Logain cleared his throat again, "Any way, reports have also said that another group of Aes Sedai, though fewer in number along with one Aiel maiden, several Sea Folk windfinders and a group of old women have been seen in Caemlyn, escorting the daughter heir. It seems that Caemlyn has a new queen, Elayne of the house Trakand.an Aes Sedai to boot who is guarding something with her life." Moira settled deeper into the backrest, "Tell me about this thing that they are guarding.anything about it?" "Only that it uses the one power. Rumors say however that it is the cause of the. 'eagerness' of saidin." Moira bit her lip, images of her dreams flashing through her head. It was a moving kaleidoscope of colors and places that she could stop at her own will. And she did. It was a sky clear with a scorching sun rising above a hill where women had gathered around what seemed to be a bowl of perfectly shaped crystal. Channeling, they put all their energies into the bowl and suddenly, a pillar of saidar rose out of it and shot towards the sky making a lace pattern that bolted in different directions. However, the strangest things of all was that she could detect saidin in this, a nauseating feeling washed over her even if it was only a dream. "The Bowl of winds." "What?" Mazrim and Logain asked in unison. "Bowl of winds. It is a ter'angreal used to change the weather. It is the reason for what is happening to saidin. It's suppose to be able to control the weather." She channeled so that a cup was filled with tea and it floated toward her. Taking a sip, she peered over the cup at Mazrim who was staring just as intently at her. Memories floated back and forth in her head, like a wave crashing on the shore then receding back into the sea. She remembered a time, few years ago when she was heart-broken and lost, wandering aimlessly around the countries. She stumbled upon a group of men training with swords and to her surprise, with the one Power. She was going to bolt at the sight of this, but somehow, her feet was glued on the ground until, one of them-who turned out to be Mazrim-came towards her. Fury glinted in his eyes because he recognized an Aes Sedai. She could have escaped but he had channeled so that she couldn't move. How many whip lashes had she suffered then to finally gain their trust. She was taught to scheme with and for them but never against them. The punishment for doing so was engraved in her mind, and a friendship that was priceless was hers, to remind her of her oath. Mazrim chuckled, "You're not having any second thoughts about anything, are you?" "Nothing." She answered, Aes Sedai coolness in her voice. Except that I feel something is coming, a light out of the shadows.or a shadow to weaken the light. Moira got up and shifted her skirt, "Will you be staying, Mazrim?" "No." "Oh. Well, if you'll excuse me, I have to get some sleep. Feel free to use anything here, just don't leave my apartment and don't frighten Waes." She released the ward against eavesdropping and walked towards her chambers. Before entering, she turned back and gave Mazrim a hard stare, "If you wish to leave, do it discreetly." She added and icy look for measure. Mazrim shrugged and turned back to face Logain. A tingle ran down her spine, a sign that if ever she dreamt anything, it was going to be a foretelling. She ordered Waes to go down to join the other maids in the gardens before plopping down on the bed. She channeled a shield for safety and closed her eyes. It was then that a feeling of dread washed over her.
Chapter five
There before her stood the ancient symbol of the Aes Sedai but this time, two figures stood in front of it. A woman who had flowing hair, pale complexion and was dressed in an immaculate white gown stood in front of saidar. A man dressed in black with dirt and grime everywhere stood in front of saidin. Each one had grave faces but it was the woman whose faces still had a glimmer of hope in it. Suddenly, she felt herself being pulled toward the woman, a wave of expectation filling her every fiber. She felt her muscles tense the closer she came to the woman. Heat emanated from the woman's body that gave her comfort and an exhilarating feeling that she could do anything. When she was only two hand spans away, the woman whispered, "Body." The scene shifted to a hill top filled with wildflowers and humming birds. A lonely oak tree stood among green grass, providing shade for a man who seemed to be sleeping. Moira picked up her skirts and ran towards the tree for she recognized the man. The amber curls, the eyes, everything described one man only. A man she had grown up with and loved and who had loved her in return. She slowed down to a walk as she neared him. The rustling of the blades of grass, made him look up and smile. Getting up, he held out his arms and called out, "Moira, my love!" She gasped and flung herself into his arms. She held onto him tightly, soaking up the warmth and softness of his body, taking in the fresh wood scent that was always with him. " Druce."She whispered. He loosened his hold on her, then tilted her chin upwards. He kissed her forehead, the bridge of her nose, then her lips. It was swift yet full of passion that she had missed in the years after his death. "Druce."She looked up to meet his eyes, her hand resting on his chest. She could feel the harsh beating of his heart. He smiled and pulled her close to him again. "You haven't lost your touch."His deep husky voice filled her ears. She was only a head shorter than him, her height was a wonder among the Cairhienin.
"You haven't lost yours either." He chuckled and nuzzled her neck. Tingling sensations ran down her spine as she held him closer. "Ah, Druce.do you know how much I love you?" "I do, Moira. But I have to leave." "Leave? So quickly?" He pushed her back so that their eyes met in a stare. He brushed his thumb against her cheek and sighed. "I am sorry. but I must go." "Druce, can't you see anything? I have mourned for seven years! I have yearned for your love again and now you want to leave me again!" he placed his finger on her lips, "Hush. This is not the end. I may return to you soon." "Return?" She questioned, "How so when you're already-" He silenced her with a kiss that was deeper, so that Moira shuddered and tightened her hold on him so that she would not slip to the ground. "I will return to you, my love. I can promise you this. I seal it with that kiss." With that, he gently pushed her away, turned to the other direction and started down the hill. A wind swept through the grass and tree, carrying with them a doleful mourning that seemed to be the very echo of Moira's weeping. The last she saw of him was a strange sight for she remembered clearly that he had no such markings on his body. Only noticing that his sleeves were rolled up, she saw the ancient symbol of the Aes Sedai clutched by dark claw like hands, an indelible mark on his left arm.
Moira woke up, her eyes stinging as if bees had planted their hooks on it. The pillow and bed was damp with her perspiration, her hair matted to her head. Looking around, she saw that her blankets lay in a heap on the floor and that the locket she wore around her neck was now clasped tightly in her hand. The locket, hanging from a golden chain, was worked in gold with images of doves, roses and vines. This contained the only picture she had of Druce, painted straight on to the locket using the one power. This locket however, was no ordinary locket. It was a ter'angreal designed to keep the memories that the wearer had with the person painted onto the locket alive even if the person painted on it was dead but it did not affect the wearer's dreams in any way. She had found this in the Cairhien royal house and it had once held the face of Moiraine but after she met Druce. She ran her thumb over it and sighed. That was an unusual dream, one that she couldn't understand. She could see everything clearly, yet the meaning seemed to escape her skill. Why would the woman, probably an image of saidar, say body. Did it need one? That was absurd yet why else would she say that word. As for Druce.she stopped and turned her attention back to the locket. He had promised her that he would return.It was him in all the likeness that she remembered. Of course, it could have been an illusion, an image projected out of her misery but could a mere illusion do that to her? She remembered how the kiss felt and that was enough to convince her about one thing. That had been no illusion. The most dangerous illusions are the ones that seem very real. That had been Moiraine, a guiding star in her years. Now Moiraine was gone and she was left alone confused and frustrated and very powerful, a deadly combination. Hastily, she put the chain on and jumped out of bed. A dream that made no sense was going to be on her mind all day unless she did something and she knew what she was suppose to do. She was going to Cairhien to speak with Cadsuane, may be even ask for a little counseling. She dressed plain brown riding crop slashed in black with a high neckline. She pulled out her dark-colored dust cloak and another dust cloak that was lavender and it was lined with fox fur. Next she pulled out a cream colored gown with a square neck line. Primroses were embroidered on the sleeves and bodice to make a band around her waist. Small emeralds formed the leaves of the primroses. If she was going to meet the dragon reborn, she was going to meet him dressed grandly. From under her bed, she took out a saddle bag where she stuffed the extra clothes, a money pouch aside from the one tied around her waist and a small flute. She didn't know why but she felt that it was going to come in handy along the journey. Lugging the saddle bag behind her, she exited her room just in time to see Mazrim and Logain disappearing into a gateway. Logain flashed her a smile and disappeared completely. The gateway winked out soon after
Author's note: I'm not sure if my counting of the years is correct but if it's not, please excuse me. I hope you'll enjoy this story because this is my first fic posted here. Please R & R. TNX
Chapter one
Her fingers clung to silk skirt of the one who sat on the gold gilded chair, her knuckles white as if scrubbed to the bone, her whole hand shaking with her sobs but still holding on tightly. Her slim fingers seemed like talons in the dim light of the fire crackling in the hearth, the only source of light in the windowless room. Her cheeks were stained with blood tears that ran down her cheeks, dripping down her narrow silver dress slashed with yellow. Sweat mingled with the tears making a sticky mess that not only dirtied her dress but also the other's dress which she clung on to. Wisps of dark brown hair had gone astray from the silver net holding up an intricate coil of waist long tresses. "Please, sister, you must keep them away from me!" Even through the sobs, her voice was clear if not a bit shrilly. The other woman who sat on the chair was also crying, tears trickling down to her hands that lay on her lap, her fingers closed around the blue woolen skirt stitched with daffodils and morning glories. In appearance, the woman on the chair and on the floor were much alike, their eyes equidistant from each other were stars that shone with warmth and knowledge and in some cases cold fury like glinting knife edges. They were sisters and members of the royal house of Cairhien but they were not in the line of succession to the throne. The woman on the chair leaned forward to pat her sister's back. A silver chain held up a blue gem set in silver that rested between her brow, the same kind of gem was dangling from her sister's neck on a silver chain.. "I won't let them get you! I will go to Tar Valon on my own." "Promise? " "I do." She guided the woman upward so that her head rested on her lap, "I won't let them take you. I swear on the name of this House." She was sincere but she still had doubts about all of this. She was barely seven years old and her sister was two years younger than her but they already knew about the harsh life outside the palace. And the White Tower. She had heard that sisters were coming tomorrow to take her to be a novice because the White tower had found out that she had a strong spark in the gift. So did her sister but along with her gift was something that was a curse for her , which kept her screaming in her sleep. "Listen to me, Moira, tomorrow, I want you to hide. If what your dreams tell is true, you must keep away from Aes Sedai. You have to hide!" The girl sniffed and wiped the tears, "Will I be safe from you? You are going to become Aes Sedai!" Her sister slowly nodded, "Even if I am Aes Sedai, I will not break my promise to you."
Chapter two
The dawn glinted through the glass on the window casting different colors on the cold marble floor, the warmth of the new morning waking her up as usual. But this morning was not filled with the light feeling of living a new day, she was full of fear and anxiety as if she knew something terrible had happened and something worse was going to happen. She shivered in the faint light and fumbled around the room to find decent robe. Elaida wasn't the only fortune teller in Tar Valon. Moira Damodred, a relative of the former Galldrian Damodred King of Cairhien, was a Dreamer and a strong one to boot. All of her dreams told of the foredooming of many things in very specific ways. Like the fall of Ebou Dar to the Seanchan, she had dreamt of that, though many in the White Tower doubted that, she knew for a fact that it was true. And Light burn Elaida for not believing her! Moira sighed and groggily dragged her feet toward the wash basin, a porcelain masterpiece by the Sea Folk, standing on a polished table all the way from Cairhien, this was actually one of the many furniture in her old room in the palace that she moved when she became an Aes Sedai. A mirror hung on the wall showing her the gray pallor that was part of the smooth Aes Sedai serenity. No signs of age yet but stress and hard life had given her a weary and wary twinkle in her eye and she walked as if she carried a great weight though she only did it in private. Splashes of cold water gave her new vigor but she feared that it would not last the day. A sudden rap on the door bought her attention to her anteroom. Tying the sash on her robe, she entered the anteroom-shock entering every fiber in her body-at the sight of the Amyrlin Seat and the Keeper staring or studying her as if she were a novice. Elaida's eyes were narrow as if she had done something against the Tower. Alviarin's eyes were cool with bitterness, something that rarely left her face these days. "Good morning, mother.Alviarin." She forced a calm voice even though she was starting to itch with curiosity to find out why they were in her chambers this early in the morning. She drew her robe closer to her body to cover what some thought as a too ample a bosom. "Good Morning daughter." Elaida's voice was crisp and hard to drive any knife into steel. "We have news concerning what you called the Seanchan and their attack on Ebou Dar and Amadicia. So you have been telling the truth. I hope it is the whole truth! I have confidence in you daughter. But we do not believe they have ter'angreal that can control a woman's flow of the power!" Moira nodded, sweeping away towards the table holding a tray of cakes and a cup of tea, which had gone cold. She channeled to warm it before taking it in her hands. Behind her, Alviarin tapped her foot impatiently. "The mother has called the hall to sit. We expect you to be there in ten minutes, no more." She sipped slowly then replied, "I will be there, Alviarin." She turned and strolled towards them, her silk robe sweeping the floor, making swishing sounds like wings flapping. "May I ask, mother what we will be sitting for?" Elaida opened her mouth to speak but Alviarin cut her, which produced a snort from the Amyrlin Seat. A snort! From Elaida! Now that was something she had hardly seen! "You will know when we sit. Good day, Moira." Alviarin swept away, literally dragging Elaida with her without the use of her hands. Elaida's eyes glinted with fury at what had just happened. Who could blame her, anyway? Her handsome face showed calm but her eyes said otherwise. Moira curtsied and waited for the door to close before looking up. Burn Alviarin! If she wasn't so obviously hungry for the Amyrlin seat, she would have been with Cadsuane by now in Cairhien! But she had to be so and Moira was forced to stay and spy for Cadsuane, something she felt she had grown accustomed to. A sitter for the battle ajah spying for another green, that was not unheard of. But this time, she worked with a legendary sister and she spied inside the white tower. Of course, Cadsuane could have done that herself but why she had been chosen was out of her league. Moira sighed and snapped her finger. On the other side of the room, a door quickly opened and a man entered, his pace slow but purposeful. He wore snug breeches of wool and a blue coat embroidered with humming birds and lilies. His surprisingly waist long hair was let down with a few braids in it, each with a small bell tied at the end so that it chimed like the wind whenever he swayed his head. Like now. "Good morning, Moira." His low voice held little gruff, something she looked in all men she met because she believed that men with gruff voices were ones that caused a lot of trouble. That had been proven wrong before but on the other hand, it had proven itself true too. "Same to you, Logain. It is a good thing you do not wear your.you know what." She channeled to light a fire in the hearth, walking towards it while keeping a keen eye on the man. He chuckled, "I can be smart when I want to. When it is needed too." He barked a laugh and settled in a brocade chair opposite her, "Besides, I wouldn't like seeing you doing penance for keeping an Asha'man in your quarters." "Thank you." She sat down and crossed her ankles. Logain Ablar, who had grown his hair had once been a false dragon, stilled and mysteriously returned to power, and he was from the Black Tower and that didn't scare her one wit. She first knew about the Black tower when she had gone into seclusion after her first warder died seven years ago. Thinking incessantly about Druce do'Angtar a'Banere, her warder who had died confronting shadow hounds at the young age of thirty three, she had stumbled on their training ground. Mazrim was still young and handsome, a fact she couldn't deny, and he was yet willing to help those who were in distress but with a high price. So she was consoled and while that was going on, she gained knowledge on the black tower, their hierarchy, their rules and everything else, something the whole white tower would kill to know. Now, she was the only sister who was allowed to pass into the black tower freely with no guards and no one questioning her. That came with a price, one small enough to pay, and an oath that dictated she tell no one of the tower and its goings-on lest they hunt her down and still her. So far she hadn't betrayed them and had no thoughts of doing so because this relationship was something too valuable to break. Besides, Logain was the only man with whom she let her feelings show because he was a close friend and she wasn't about to destroy that. Cadsuane, however though she was her mentor, knew nothing about this. "You know, Moira, you had better get ready for that gathering lest they find something suspicious going on." She channeled a ward for eavesdropping and shrugged. "The hall can wait. What news have you?" he raked his hair with his fingers, "Let's see.Rand Al'Thor has returned to Cairhien, killing Adley first because he used Callandor against the Seanchan in Altara." Her eyes widen at that. "Yes, he had Narishma get callandor, almost getting Narishma killed in the process. I don't know why he has to use that. It is enough that he surpasses all of the black tower but he wants to use a sa'angreal too? Light!" She smoothen her robe over her lap, "callandor? Is that boy mad! It will kill him before Tarmon Gai'don!" Logain frowned, "Moira, is there something I should know about?" She bit her lip and hesitated. She knew what callandor did, but if she told Logain, would she risk him getting bashed up for telling Al'Thor this? Rumors had it that Cadsuane was with Rand, most likely she had already told him but if she hasn't and Logain went to tell him. "Callandor magnifies the taint on saidin.only a man linked with two women, one of them controlling the flow, can use it." Logain visibly shuddered, "what happens if a man uses it alone?" "I told you.he dies." Silence descended upon them, something she always avoided but this time it couldn't be avoided, and both of them needed it to think. The sun outside shone weakly among the gray clouds, the snow not ceasing in its fall. A rap on the door, brought her attention. Releasing the ward, she gave permission for entry. Waes, a honey colored strong chinned woman younger than her entered with a slight frown on her face at the sight of Logain as Moira warded the room again. She was Andoran, having strict beliefs on men and women like one that dictated no man should see a lady if the lady was only in her robe with no slippers. Moira smiled and motioned her to come closer. Waes's frown deepen but she still obeyed, a silver comb clutched with fingers that were strong enough to strangle Logain should he do anything crooked. "Milady, you know this is not proper. You in only a robe, Light knows what he will do!" She never bothered to lower voice which made Logain chuckle. "I am honorable, dear lady!" He cried in amusement while getting up. Moira stood up too beside Logain, giving Waes and innocent smile. "It is alright, Waes! How many times must I tell you that Logain is trustworthy?" "Bah!" She spat, "Druce was trustworthy but he got himself killed! What will he do to break your heart again?" She jerked her head towards Logain, walking towards Moira's chamber, the brush tapping the palm of her hand. Since her back was turned, she didn't see Moira flinched with the reminder of it. Logain caught it and sighed. "Waes, I take my leave." He gave Moira an apologetic look before turning back to his chambers which once had been Moira's office. She had it made into a bedroom while her room was expanded to include a study. Waes grunted and walked towards Moira, getting hold of her hand and pulling her into her chambers. "I do not know why you mingle with men like him! Bah! The Light will deal with them soon!" Moira wriggled in her grasp and sighed when she didn't let go. Waes almost pushed her on the bed in her irritation. Was her mistress going mad? Men like that Logain, pretty as anything and smooth-tongued as honey, would get killed in battle if they didn't run away with a tavern maiden first and he would break her poor heart. Just like Druce. Just like Moiraine. She swept into an adjacent room and soon reappeared with a narrow green dress embroidered with lilies on the sleeves, neckline and hem with white slashes; a girdle plated with golden leaves served as her belt. All but getting shoved into it, Moira was dressed in less than the time one would take to say ta'veren, Waes clucking like a hen about her waist length hair. "We should do something about that hair of yours, Mistress." At once she began running the brush she held violently down the tresses. If she were any other girl, Moira would have screamed in pain as she felt the strands being viciously pulled out of their roots. Being Aes Sedai, she remained as calm as she cold. "Waes, do you have to be so violent in brushing my hair?" She asked coolly, "You could brush it more gently." "Bah! It's to teach you a lesson! I hope you aren't choosing him as a replacement for Druce!" She spat, continuing with the harsh brushing. "Do not speak of him unless you mean to speak with a little respect, Waes. You know that grief is still too near my heart." She sniffed to make her point. Waes snorted in answer, "Is that why you are going for the likes of him?" Moira swiftly turned and caught Waes's hand, holding it tight enough to make anyone flinch but she only smiled wryly, "Listen well because I will not repeat myself. Logain is a friend, nothing more. Druce was my warder and my lover and I will not have you disrespect him.or me for that matter. Nothing can ever replace him! Do you understand?" she hissed in anger. Waes only nodded, her lips curling up into a bigger grin. Moira was famous for her temper so that many sisters avoided pricking her. Waes on the other hand was thought by many to be foolish to set herself as Moira's handmaid but this didn't affect her one bit because she had a weapon that she could always use on Moira. Druce had been her friend and Moira was not going to taint her relationship with Druce by hurting her. "I understand, Moira." She whispered. Fire flashed in her mistress' eyes but only for a heartbeat before she got up and exited her room. Waes followed her, their velvet slippers hardly making a sound on the marble floor. Out through the door and down the corridor they went, through sweeping vaulted halls, down sweeping stairways until they reached the Hall. There Moira stopped in front of the doors and turned to her. "I want you to check on the doves. See if they have any messages for me. See that my guest has something to eat." Waes curtsied and replied acquiescence. Looking satisfied, Moira entered the hall, leaving her to carry out her task. Waes smiled again. Moira may be the mistress today but there was always tomorrow.
Chapter three
Elaida shifted the six striped stole on her shoulders and strained her ears to listen to the Sitters talk. Everything left her head even as she tried to grasp it firmly in her fingers because of the headache that had launched itself on her. Why did it have to come today? Why did the Hall have to sit? Burn Alviarin! She sighed and shifted in her seat and stared forward at the faces before her. Moira caught her eye as she sat straight back but relaxed in her seat, the image of royal bearing of Cairhien. She frowned. Moira was ten, if not twenty, times stronger than the strongest sister in the tower and twice as strong as the whole white tower, novices, accepted and sisters together. It was a frightening fact because she had strength in all five powers whilst others only had strength in one or two at the most. Another disturbing fact was that, though she was battle ajah, she seemed more fitting for the grays, she was the only sitter who did not take an oath to capture the dragon reborn and keep him safe. Her reason was for mediating purposes, it was vague but it suited Elaida because it meant that she feared the Amyrlin seat and would not swear to do anything she knew she would most likely fail in. wise for someone whose sister was a complete fool. Moiraine was the exact mirror image of Moira though she was two years older, both had a thirst for justice, Moiraine for how her sister was pulled to the White Tower despite the girl's pleas not to because she would surely die and Moira for her dead warder and sister. That wiped the frown off Elaida's face. She knew about how the greens were possessive of their warders but she was surprised to find a green making her warder also her lover. Before, there had been written records of greens who had married their warders but she didn't expect to actually find something like it in her time. And to have Moira whose temper was famous in it too. She had seen Druce, and truthfully, she had found him attractive, his unruly mop of amber curls that tumbled down to his shoulders, veiling a face that had clear blue eyes, a generous mouth always upturned in a boyish smile and those cheeks tinged with pink. Indeed, he almost made the sisters talk in ribald language the first time he had come to the White tower. Many wished that they could get him as their warder and she was one of them but he already had his eyes set on Moira, then a newly raised novice. He waited patiently and so did Moira, while the other sisters fumed at being turned down. When she was bought up to the shawl, they immediately bonded thus causing old anger to rekindle. Druce smothered it however and everything went back as it was. Except that Elaida was furious that she hadn't gotten him and that she was in the red ajah. "Mother." Moira's voice cracked her thoughts, making her blink despite herself. "what is it, daughter?" "Mother, we must discuss the matter about the dragon reborn." One of the red sitters answered. Heads nodded in agreement. Ah, the dragon reborn! Something that wanted her to sick up. "Go ahead, daughter." Moira stood up before the red could speak earning an icy glare and a few muttered words. "If I may mother, I would like to suggest to the hall that I be sent to Cairhien, to the dragon reborn. I can do many things there for the greater glory of the White Tower." But not for your glory anyway. Elaida sat forward, her curiosity piqued by what had been said, "Really, daughter? Send you to the Dragon Reborn?" "Yes mother." Moira bowed her head. "Do you know you have value in the tower because of your power and your agents?" True. She had more agents than anyone right now except for Suian Sanche. "If he stills you-or worse kills you-then we will lose something very important! Do you understand daughter?" "Yes mother. But I don't see why I shouldn't be sent there besides those reasons you gave, mother. I am a familiar face there and there is a chance that I can slip pass him unnoticed. I have agents who are close to him, mother." Cadsuane? Her agent? Moira wanted to laugh. "Really? Then I don't see why you shouldn't go!" Elaida sat back in her chair. May be this was her chance to kill her without getting stained. Light, knows how much she wanted her to go away! Did she mention that Moira also did not swear fealty to her? No. But since Moira was more powerful and she possessed a temper, Elaida wasn't about to risk a confrontation. It may look like cowardice but in a way, it was a way for Elaida to survive.
Chapter four
The hall continued to sit well into the early afternoon. Afterwards, Moira climbed up to her chambers, itching to talk with Logain. Surely by now he had gotten something more useful than she did in the Hall. The doves of the Black tower, the personal pigeons of his.she started to tick of a list with her fingers. Yes, he should have gotten a good amount of information by now. Sweeping into the room, she gasped to see Waes shaking against the wall, well away from the two men who were now sitting down and casually sipping tea. Fear nearly made her eyes pop out of their sockets and Moira could just imagine why. One of them was Logain who still didn't look up even as she shut the door and wove a ward against intruders and eavesdropping. The other was a man who was starting to gray at the edges but he still seemed to be an embodiment of menacing strength the way his eyes darted from Waes in quiet annoyance and to Moira with indifferent welcome. This man had no doubt arrived the way Logain did, only he arrived indiscreetly to cause Waes to tremble. "Mazrim, what brings you here?" She asked coolly trying to cover her surprise. "Nice try, Moira but you can't fool me." He answered, setting the cup of tea back on the table. She rolled her eyes heavenwards, swishing her skirt in slight exasperation, "Alright, you had me surprised." She motioned for Waes to go to her room, then covered them in a ward against eavesdropping. Waes maybe her maid but that wasn't a reason to truly trust her. Mazrim smiled with satisfaction, "You certainly know how to do things." She waved it aside and plopped down on the brocaded chair nearest the fireplace. At this, Logain looked from his cup and darted his gaze from his father and Moira before clearing his throat. "There are reports from my spies say that a group of Aes Sedai is headed this way with an army. Lord Bryne as its commander." "Yes, I've dreamt of it. Is this the rebel Aes Sedai?" Logain nodded, "They plan to lay siege on Elaida!" Mazrim barked a laugh, "War on a single person? Who is their Amyrlin seat, if any?" "Egwene Al'vere. An Aes Sedai newly raised to shawl then raised to Amyrlin seat almost immediately after she got the shawl." She tucked her feet under her, "She's a childhood friend of Al'Thor's. Suppose to be his betrothed if he weren't the dragon reborn." Mazrim reached up and fingered his collar. It was then that Moira noticed he wasn't wearing his black coat but a cream shirt unlaced at the neck with a gray coat embroidered with hummingbirds and vines. "His betrothed?" Mazrim chuckled, "I wonder how that girl gets along with him.and to think she wants to declare war on a single person! Now that is something to write in your history books!" Logain cleared his throat again, "Any way, reports have also said that another group of Aes Sedai, though fewer in number along with one Aiel maiden, several Sea Folk windfinders and a group of old women have been seen in Caemlyn, escorting the daughter heir. It seems that Caemlyn has a new queen, Elayne of the house Trakand.an Aes Sedai to boot who is guarding something with her life." Moira settled deeper into the backrest, "Tell me about this thing that they are guarding.anything about it?" "Only that it uses the one power. Rumors say however that it is the cause of the. 'eagerness' of saidin." Moira bit her lip, images of her dreams flashing through her head. It was a moving kaleidoscope of colors and places that she could stop at her own will. And she did. It was a sky clear with a scorching sun rising above a hill where women had gathered around what seemed to be a bowl of perfectly shaped crystal. Channeling, they put all their energies into the bowl and suddenly, a pillar of saidar rose out of it and shot towards the sky making a lace pattern that bolted in different directions. However, the strangest things of all was that she could detect saidin in this, a nauseating feeling washed over her even if it was only a dream. "The Bowl of winds." "What?" Mazrim and Logain asked in unison. "Bowl of winds. It is a ter'angreal used to change the weather. It is the reason for what is happening to saidin. It's suppose to be able to control the weather." She channeled so that a cup was filled with tea and it floated toward her. Taking a sip, she peered over the cup at Mazrim who was staring just as intently at her. Memories floated back and forth in her head, like a wave crashing on the shore then receding back into the sea. She remembered a time, few years ago when she was heart-broken and lost, wandering aimlessly around the countries. She stumbled upon a group of men training with swords and to her surprise, with the one Power. She was going to bolt at the sight of this, but somehow, her feet was glued on the ground until, one of them-who turned out to be Mazrim-came towards her. Fury glinted in his eyes because he recognized an Aes Sedai. She could have escaped but he had channeled so that she couldn't move. How many whip lashes had she suffered then to finally gain their trust. She was taught to scheme with and for them but never against them. The punishment for doing so was engraved in her mind, and a friendship that was priceless was hers, to remind her of her oath. Mazrim chuckled, "You're not having any second thoughts about anything, are you?" "Nothing." She answered, Aes Sedai coolness in her voice. Except that I feel something is coming, a light out of the shadows.or a shadow to weaken the light. Moira got up and shifted her skirt, "Will you be staying, Mazrim?" "No." "Oh. Well, if you'll excuse me, I have to get some sleep. Feel free to use anything here, just don't leave my apartment and don't frighten Waes." She released the ward against eavesdropping and walked towards her chambers. Before entering, she turned back and gave Mazrim a hard stare, "If you wish to leave, do it discreetly." She added and icy look for measure. Mazrim shrugged and turned back to face Logain. A tingle ran down her spine, a sign that if ever she dreamt anything, it was going to be a foretelling. She ordered Waes to go down to join the other maids in the gardens before plopping down on the bed. She channeled a shield for safety and closed her eyes. It was then that a feeling of dread washed over her.
Chapter five
There before her stood the ancient symbol of the Aes Sedai but this time, two figures stood in front of it. A woman who had flowing hair, pale complexion and was dressed in an immaculate white gown stood in front of saidar. A man dressed in black with dirt and grime everywhere stood in front of saidin. Each one had grave faces but it was the woman whose faces still had a glimmer of hope in it. Suddenly, she felt herself being pulled toward the woman, a wave of expectation filling her every fiber. She felt her muscles tense the closer she came to the woman. Heat emanated from the woman's body that gave her comfort and an exhilarating feeling that she could do anything. When she was only two hand spans away, the woman whispered, "Body." The scene shifted to a hill top filled with wildflowers and humming birds. A lonely oak tree stood among green grass, providing shade for a man who seemed to be sleeping. Moira picked up her skirts and ran towards the tree for she recognized the man. The amber curls, the eyes, everything described one man only. A man she had grown up with and loved and who had loved her in return. She slowed down to a walk as she neared him. The rustling of the blades of grass, made him look up and smile. Getting up, he held out his arms and called out, "Moira, my love!" She gasped and flung herself into his arms. She held onto him tightly, soaking up the warmth and softness of his body, taking in the fresh wood scent that was always with him. " Druce."She whispered. He loosened his hold on her, then tilted her chin upwards. He kissed her forehead, the bridge of her nose, then her lips. It was swift yet full of passion that she had missed in the years after his death. "Druce."She looked up to meet his eyes, her hand resting on his chest. She could feel the harsh beating of his heart. He smiled and pulled her close to him again. "You haven't lost your touch."His deep husky voice filled her ears. She was only a head shorter than him, her height was a wonder among the Cairhienin.
"You haven't lost yours either." He chuckled and nuzzled her neck. Tingling sensations ran down her spine as she held him closer. "Ah, Druce.do you know how much I love you?" "I do, Moira. But I have to leave." "Leave? So quickly?" He pushed her back so that their eyes met in a stare. He brushed his thumb against her cheek and sighed. "I am sorry. but I must go." "Druce, can't you see anything? I have mourned for seven years! I have yearned for your love again and now you want to leave me again!" he placed his finger on her lips, "Hush. This is not the end. I may return to you soon." "Return?" She questioned, "How so when you're already-" He silenced her with a kiss that was deeper, so that Moira shuddered and tightened her hold on him so that she would not slip to the ground. "I will return to you, my love. I can promise you this. I seal it with that kiss." With that, he gently pushed her away, turned to the other direction and started down the hill. A wind swept through the grass and tree, carrying with them a doleful mourning that seemed to be the very echo of Moira's weeping. The last she saw of him was a strange sight for she remembered clearly that he had no such markings on his body. Only noticing that his sleeves were rolled up, she saw the ancient symbol of the Aes Sedai clutched by dark claw like hands, an indelible mark on his left arm.
Moira woke up, her eyes stinging as if bees had planted their hooks on it. The pillow and bed was damp with her perspiration, her hair matted to her head. Looking around, she saw that her blankets lay in a heap on the floor and that the locket she wore around her neck was now clasped tightly in her hand. The locket, hanging from a golden chain, was worked in gold with images of doves, roses and vines. This contained the only picture she had of Druce, painted straight on to the locket using the one power. This locket however, was no ordinary locket. It was a ter'angreal designed to keep the memories that the wearer had with the person painted onto the locket alive even if the person painted on it was dead but it did not affect the wearer's dreams in any way. She had found this in the Cairhien royal house and it had once held the face of Moiraine but after she met Druce. She ran her thumb over it and sighed. That was an unusual dream, one that she couldn't understand. She could see everything clearly, yet the meaning seemed to escape her skill. Why would the woman, probably an image of saidar, say body. Did it need one? That was absurd yet why else would she say that word. As for Druce.she stopped and turned her attention back to the locket. He had promised her that he would return.It was him in all the likeness that she remembered. Of course, it could have been an illusion, an image projected out of her misery but could a mere illusion do that to her? She remembered how the kiss felt and that was enough to convince her about one thing. That had been no illusion. The most dangerous illusions are the ones that seem very real. That had been Moiraine, a guiding star in her years. Now Moiraine was gone and she was left alone confused and frustrated and very powerful, a deadly combination. Hastily, she put the chain on and jumped out of bed. A dream that made no sense was going to be on her mind all day unless she did something and she knew what she was suppose to do. She was going to Cairhien to speak with Cadsuane, may be even ask for a little counseling. She dressed plain brown riding crop slashed in black with a high neckline. She pulled out her dark-colored dust cloak and another dust cloak that was lavender and it was lined with fox fur. Next she pulled out a cream colored gown with a square neck line. Primroses were embroidered on the sleeves and bodice to make a band around her waist. Small emeralds formed the leaves of the primroses. If she was going to meet the dragon reborn, she was going to meet him dressed grandly. From under her bed, she took out a saddle bag where she stuffed the extra clothes, a money pouch aside from the one tied around her waist and a small flute. She didn't know why but she felt that it was going to come in handy along the journey. Lugging the saddle bag behind her, she exited her room just in time to see Mazrim and Logain disappearing into a gateway. Logain flashed her a smile and disappeared completely. The gateway winked out soon after