milliways_bar | (no subject)

(no subject)

*Will steps through the door, and begins to make his way towards the bar.*

*He looks pensive, but only as any other boy might; he's thinking about a history lesson. He's supposed to have an essay topic chosen by tomorrow.*

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Moiraine looks up from her tea as the door opens, and there is an instant's surprise, visible only to those who know her very, very well.

Dark eyes gleam with quiet pleasure at the sight of an old friend, and she raises a hand in an attempt to draw his attention.

*His attention is easily caught. Hers was one of the faces he was idly looking for, in fact -- not for any special business, but as a good friend.*

*He lifts a hand in return, with a smile, and changes direction to head for her table.*

She smiles serenely back and gestures to a chair as he approaches.

"Good evening, Will. How are matters with you?"

*Will drops into the chair, with the obligatory slight slouch of a sixteen-year-old.*

*cheerfully* Well enough, thanks. How is it with you?

"It is as well as may be expected." There is the slightest hint of amusement clear, as she selects her phrase carefully.

But then her expression grows ever so slightly more grave.

"I am glad to see you, now." The faintest stress on the final word. "Your family is well, I may hope?"

*Will knows Moiraine well, by now.*

*He's learned to read the subtle changes of expression, the slight emphasis. His posture straightens a little, unconsciously.*

Yes, they're all fine.

*He's waiting.*

"I am glad to hear it."

There is something about her that is, perhaps, more like the Moiraine who first came into the bar; more like the Aes Sedai was during the early days.

Slightly distant, almost as if focused on something else, something of utmost importance; very, very focused.

"I had occasion to speak with your ... colleague, Merriman, last evening." A faint smile curves her lips. "He is quite expert at t'cheran, what you would call chess."

*Will recognizes that distant focus, and the Old One in him responds to it.*

*A quirk of a smile, from a face that seems somehow subtly older than a second ago.* I am not surprised.

"No, I suppose that you would not be." An answering serene smile, and she continues, "It was an interesting set of pieces he had, as well; they were briefly turned to show those who fought in battles past."

A beat. "In t'cheran, the pieces that you and Merriman appeared to represent are termed 'Counsellors.'"

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