WoTtober 2023 #9 RULER
It was a strange sensation to finally see the seven Towers of Malkier being restored to its former glory. Moraine felt Thom close and it was a huge help all along, He was the only one who could make her feel better any time.
Even the day before he talked to her, but he stopped the first time it irked her. Now he just rode beside her and talked with two Malkieri who rode out to meet them and escort them to the palace. Moraine kept her eyes on Aldieb's mane and ears, since the look on any hadori reminded her of one thing only.
"Moraine Sedai."
That voice chilled her to the bone and she felt like fainting. Thom was by her side in a heartbeat, putting a comforting hand on her back. This made her able to look up and return Lan's welcome.
"My Lord!' she said and nodded with respect.
She looked at him then. He was just like she remembered him and yet different. Steady as a mountain and yet somehow softer - no doubt Nynaeve's doing. That girl could beat almost anyone into a softer side.
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Moiraine tensed when Lan came closer to ride them through the newly rebuilt gate as propriety dictated for esteemed guests. This was a first for Thom. Probably not the last, as more people would soon know him as Moiraine's husband, but this was not about him. Lan's black stallion fell easily into step with the white mare just like they probably did for years. This was, however, not something comfortable for his wife. This man was not her companion. This was the king of Malkier.
He remembered her when she returned to Merrilor from Rand's visit to Lan. She was cold and unresponsive for hours and he hoped this would not happen now. For her sake.