[SE] One over the Other

Maea Big dreamers shoot for open skies Relieving herself of her burdens onto the table, Maea accepted the chair and sat down. Sam's confusion was as obvious as it was understandable, and she knew she would have to explain her whereabouts eventually. But for the moment, she just enjoyed being in his company again. He was one of the oldest acquaintances she had, even if their friendship was still new, and it was very comforting to see that he was in one piece, considering all the trouble she knew they'd had. I've arranged to board at the VlamVloed for the time being," she told him, "but I'm not sure what to do yet once the deal runs out. Jigano said I could stay at the Guild, but... I don't know that a cot in a reading room will be a long term solution. Though I do like the idea of being able to stay here." Reaching for a few strands of Sam's basket project, Maea aligned the reeds and deftly began to weave a square for the bottom, folding strand after strand and placing one over the other as she spoke. It was a task she had done too often, weaving both willow and reed, straw and cloth; it was just one of those utilitarian skills picked up after a lifetime as a farm girl, and she wanted to refresh her memory before trying to teach her friend. "How come? I heard you've been putting yourself forward more recently, are you busy with other things? Of course, you've joined the Council too... Congratulations on that." She smiled warmly, not mentioning that she'd refrained from voting on either of the nominees for the Naturals Advisor. It made her feel a bit guilty, but... Jigano's words about Sam's new devotion to the Voice worried her. More than she wanted to admit.