A wind blew through the streets of the city, which caused the sign of theThe Queens Blessing Inn to sway lazily. While not the most popular of inns in the city of Camelyn,arguably one of the best. It wasbecause of these reasons it was chosen for by the Dragon Reborn to be where he and his closest confidants would spend their night in quiet contemplation to plan ahead; for the coming war against the shadow.

At least, that's what they told everyone else.

Rand al'Thor was greatly pleased to spend the night with his friends drinking and catching up with one another. It had been far too long since they were separated, and he was looking forward to the chance to relax with familiar and non-expectant faces. He took a slow sip from his wine and smiled to himself, Lews Therin was silent, how he did not know, the possibility of being in close proximity of his friends, two other ta'veren? Who knew? But for now, he was going to enjoy being alone to his thought while in close company with friendly faces.

Matrim Cauthon tugged at the scarf around his neck as he took another gulp of his wine, his grin seemed etched on his face. Rand was acting a little more relaxed, and this was always a welcome thing. He'd never admit it as such, but the fear he displayed at a Man Channelling was from his fear of rands safety. He was one of the few men who understood him, and the only other to know what happened in Ruhiden. And above all else, Rand had saved his life. On more than one occasion.

Perrin Ayabra was smiling widely. He was glad to be with Rand and Mat again, and the comfortable surroundings was doing wonders for everyone's mood. He could smell calm and relief rolling off the others in waves. Too much time was spent apart between the three of them, for three who spent so much time together as children, and went though so much since leaving the two rivers, they had not had much chance to discuss the aspects of their lives since being apart. This night would help remedy that.

Al'Lan Mandragoran sat in the corner carefully sipping his wine; despite his relaxed stance he was always ready. After a little pushing from his wife he agreed to follow Rand, Matt and Perrin to make sure they stayed out of trouble. His surprise to see them entering the inn was out-weighed by the surpirse oftheir invitations to join them for some drinks. Which he expressed by raising an eyebrow at the time, but he accepted. Men who were to fight together needed time to reacquaint themselves with each other. Time apart would have most definitely have changed them all, and this would be time well spent.

The three friends were finishing their drinks and a small argument ensued about who would offer to pay for the next round, all of them wanted to be courteous and generous, but they were all being especially obstinate about it.

But an offer was made.

"How about a game?" Mat challenged
"Game?" Rand said doubtfully.
"What sort of Game?" Perrin asked.
"We compare some stories based on a certain topic whoever has it worst out of the lot has to buy drinks for everyone else." Mat said simply.

Now each man at the table believed they had the worst lot in life, and had no reason to say no.

"Very well." Rand said with quiet confidence
"Fine." Perrin sighed.
"Alright then lads, what's the first topic then?" Mat asked. His eyes filled with mischief, and his grin widend in a waythat would make anyone wary of his attitude.

To be continued.