Thread: The Wheel Weaves What The Wheel Wills (Ryees & darkangel76)

With a nod, Caitrin watched Aermun go to work gathering wood for a fire. She managed to find some small pieces of wood for kindling along with tattered pieces of tree bark and pine needles. She set them next to the pile her Warder had made, adding to what would be needed. Her tummy rumbled softly, but she pushed thoughts of hunger aside. There would be no feasting this night. As it was, they were lucky to be alive. Caitrin found herself settling in as she watched Aermun build the fire. A part of her wished he could reach out to saidin, touch the One Power and light their fire with ease. But to do so would be foolish, dangerous. As a trained Aes Sedai, she knew the temptations of touching the Power. Its seductive call always beckoned deep within the mind, to touch it brought euphoria, blissful peace. Her legs trembled slightly at the thought. But there was a sickening taint in saidin, the male power shadowed in darkness by Shai'tan himself. To embark on the journey of channeling without aid? It was madness. And it was why they needed to get to the Black Tower. A small smile tugged at the corners of Caitrin's lips and she pulled the cloak even more tightly about her tiny body. The heavy fabrics were warm and smelled of Aermun mixed with fire and smoke. It was pleasing, comforting...somehow soothing her as they readied themselves for the night. Heeding Aermun's words, Caitrin listened to him and moved to sit with her back to the fire. Immediately, she could feel the cloak absorbing the heat, allowing it to warm her entire body as the frigid night air became colder. Her cheeks grew warmer still when he spoke of staying by her side. It had always been a given, an unspoken expectation that he'd never bothered to reiterate. Hearing such words now... It was as if he wasn't just a mere Warder, but a man. Living, breathing. Warm. Sucking in a sharp breath, Caitrin gave Aermun a nod and then averted her gaze. Thank you. She longed to reach out, to touch his arm like she always did. But something made her hesitate, unsure. I... she began, stammering slightly. Swallowing hard, she mustered up her resolve and brought her hand down upon his arm. And I promise to stay by your side. We face this together, she reassured. Everything. With great reluctance, she let her hand slide from his arm and she nestled deeply within his cloak, letting herself get lost in his scent as sleep slowly began to claim her. Meanwhile, Damarys led Leithia to a small grove. She gestured the girl take a seat upon the ground. I know this isn't the best accommodations. But I have blankets in my pack. And we'll spend the night at an inn tomorrow. Leithia's eyes widened. Not everyone fears and detests Aes Sedai, Damarys explained. We are revered in many towns, in many countries. She nodded, smiling. You are taking your first steps into a much larger world. One where you can stand tall...and will. Leithia nodded. I'll make you proud of me, Lady Damarys, she said, her voice hopeful, eager. I've no doubt that you'll exceed my expectations, pet. Damarys opened her pack and began laying out blankets. But let's gather some wood for a fire. We need our sleep for it's a long way to Tar Valon.