Drabbles of life after 2 (Wheel of Time fanfiction)

WoTtober 2024 #21 GAME

Moiraine spent the whole day with Lan, sorting through reports and accounts. It felt good, this new camaraderie they worked out between them. Both comfortable in silence, working over their own thing. From time to time she would reach out to Thom for some cheering up. He was always fast to get happy and excited for her. Today, however, something seemed to change.

Thom was... strange. Amused, but also a little angry. Motivated. And it all started shortly after afternoon meal. At least what was supposed to be one. She and Lan worked through that time with snacks brought on Nynaeve's orders left untouched. Another sign that Thom was really engrossed in what he was doing – he would have otherwise noted her skipping a meal. He was in no distress, which was good, but it seill irked her not to know.

The bond helped her track Thom down. It was, however, not a novelty or hard guess. Malkieri library was a place he loved, especially since Lan tasked him with filling it. This time, surprisingly, the world didn't circle around books. Thom sat in his favourite wing-backed chair, hunched over a small table, usually holding his chosen volumes. Across from him Loial was perching on a big lounger, probably the only piece of furniture in the room able to sit him comfortably.

Between them, on the small table, a fierce game of stones was laid.

Thom was so engrossed in his strategy that he didn't even notice her presence until Loial stood up to welcome her.

"Moiraine Sedai," he said, it's good to see you."

"I hope you're having a good time in Malkier, Loial. I know I'm happy you've decided to accept the invitation." Moiraine put her small hands into his big ones. "I see Thom finally got you to play a game," she laughed. "And if I can judge correctly, you're giving him a really hard time."

Loial sat back down. Moiraine accepted Thom's outstretched arm and perched lightly on the armrest, with his body and hers touching. She tried to convey calmness to help her husband, but ended up just trying not to let him feel her profound amusement.

"I'm sorry." Loial seemed to feel down about his game. "I didn't mean to be difficult."

"Don't be," she went fast to assure him. "Thom's been yearning for a worthy opponent. Even Mat with all his Wheel given luck couldn't give him a hard time."

"There is no question about your skill, Loial, for sure," Thom assured.

"I'm going up, my dearest," she said and kissed his cheek. "Try not to be too long. Goodnight, Loial."

She was happy to feel another outburst of pride and excitement in the bond a minute later, on her wat up the stairs. Finally someone matching her husband in strategy.