Calling a Truce

This next chapter is a collaboration with my wonderful husband, @thebiganvil.

Find the full storyline here: Iasea Storyline

The hulking man stood in the doorway, reading over the note in his hand again. He seemed to be debating the best course of action. If he went straight to Forosuul, the man would likely leave straightaway to take matters into his own hands. And Alsa would be hurt. But if he told Alsa first, she would want to go and see what could be done. And the Patriarch will be angry with him. There’s no winning here. No choice that resolves things. He sighed heavily and stepped into the small cottage he shared with his mate.

The space was cozy and comfortable, all decorated with Alsabe’s beautiful wall hangings that made the space bright and joyful. He spotted her plucking leaves into a bowl, her soft, silver-white hair tumbling down her back. Placing a hand on her shoulder, he gave her the gentlest of squeezes to get her attention. 

“Big Bear!” She jumped up and hugged him tightly, her task forgotten. She kissed him happily before pulling back to see his concerned face. “What’s wrong, Dæ?”

He set her back down on her feet and lumbered over to a chair. “Sit down, beautiful. Please.” He indicated the chair across from him. She did as he requested, her brow furrowing. He placed the parchment in front of her, giving her some time to read it.

“She wants me to meet with her? At the Blue Recluse?” She read it again, her confusion only building. 

“This could be a trap, Alsa. But it might be what she is offering too. Just to talk. It’s a very public place, so I would think it might not be too bad,” he offered. His eyes were sad, knowing the pain this whole situation had brought everyone.

She stared at the paper, nodding. “I’m going.” She set her features and stood. Without further discussion, she started changing into her fighting kit. As she wrapped the adorned belt about her waist, Dæsin’s heavy hand pulled her backwards against him. He wrapped his arms around her, leaning down, he kissed the top of her head.

“Not alone, beautiful. Let me come with you,” he held her still, forcing her to talk it through. She tried to push free to keep dressing, her heart pounding in her chest. She didn’t want to stop. Didn’t want to talk. He knew she would do this, so he held her close, keeping his voice gentle. “Alsa, please. I could never forgive myself if something happened. And your father won’t forgive me for telling you. Please.”

She sighed, accepting his request. They dressed together and stepped out side. Dæsin closed his eyes, opened his arms wide and shifted into the form of a large grey owl. He lowered his belly to the ground and she pulled herself up onto his back. Once she had settled, he took flight and headed to the Shrine and the portals.

Dæsin nodded as he let his form morph into a large cat. He bumped her side, purring before shimmering out of view. He stalked off a bit away, hopefully out of notice and waited. Alsabe drew the shadows around herself, preparing for a fight that she was uncertain would come. The district was busy as usual, people coming and going from shops, the tavern and the mage tower. A drunk man wandered a little too close to her. Moments later the same man could be heard cursing a blue streak while spinning around to find the cause of his now shredded trousers. A small smile cracked Alsa’s features as she shook her head. The amusement was short lived as a familiar head of pink hair moved into view. 

Iasea Moonwhisper approached slowly, looking around. She spotted her target and walked up, keeping her hands in full view. As she stepped in front of Alsabe, she bowed her smile quickly fading. The shadows around Alsa pulsed as she eyed Iasea warily. Iasea watched Alsabe, surprised.  “You were expecting me to fight with you? Here?”

“You attacked my niece not far from here, in broad daylight,” Alsabe spat.

“I attacked no one,” she responded calmly.

The younger woman narrowed her pale violet eyes. “Fine,” she clipped. “Your people did.” She turned her back and walked inside to order herself something to calm her nerves.

Iasea gestured to an empty table and found a chair for herself. “I came to call a truce, Alsabe. Will you sit with me?” She indicated the chair beside her. I’m going to have to work for this. Damn.

Alsabe sighed. “Very well,” she responded, dismissing the shadow. 

For the first time that day, Iasea could see her clearly. The halter top, thigh high leggings and a detailed belt. The entire look designed to accentuate Alsabe’s full hips and chest. Iasea, unable to stop herself,  chuckled. Alsabe frowned at her. “I see some things haven't changed,” she indicated the way the younger elf was dressed.

“A lot about me has changed, Iasea. You can blame your former matron for that.”

“Who our House served was not my choice,” she sighed.

“I don't remember you protesting,” Alsabe sneered.

“What would have been the point,” Iasea asked. “Min'da made the decisions. The best I could do was work with what was available.” Alsabe nodded, conceding the point. She picked up her drink and took a slow sip. “You were her favorite, I don't know what you are complaining about.”

Alsabe eyes widened. “Her what,” she asked incredulously.

“Her favorite,” came the fit reply. Alsabe looked both shocked and outraged. “You were the one she counted on. You always got things done.”

Alsabe glared at her. “I hope, Iasea, that someday you know how it feels to be the favorite of someone like her.” Her voice dripped with hatred. “I really, really do.”

“I tried,” she sighed. “Never managed to get her to look at me the same way.”

“Lucky you,” Alsa stated bitterly, looking away.

Iasea shook her head. “You seem to have done quite well for yourself now. Unlike the rest of us.”

“Blame her for that too, she cast me out.” 

“So you are unhappy then?” She seemed surprised. All indications were that she was being absolutely spoiled in her new home. Could I find another way to make you miserable? I wonder…

“I am unhappy my niece was nearly killed,” she snapped. Taking a breath, she managed to level out her voice. “Other than that, no, not even a little.”

“I'm not exactly happy that my entire family is dead.”

“I am,” Alsa smirked, crossing her arms in front of her.

Iasea sighed. “I didn’t come here to fight with you, truly.”

“Why did you try to kill her?” Alsabe stared at her once sister. “Kalimè did nothing to you.”

Iasea’s voice grew quiet. “And I did nothing to this House of yours. Yet I am the one who suffers.”

Alsabe scowled. “Kasuura murdered my sister's mother. Ufnas and Shefyura helped her do it.”

“They did,” Iasea confirmed. 

“Our people thought you innocent of it, so they let you go.”

“Min'da was obsessed with getting back into Mire's graces,” she replied in surrender.

“Well, perhaps she is, as the two of them roam the netherworld together,” she muttered.

“I heard Mire died as well. But no one seems to want to tell me what happened,” she pried, hoping Alsabe would give her something of use. “To either of them.”

Alsabe smirked, “They crossed my father.” She gave the older woman nothing more.

“There's nothing left, Alsabe,” she whispered. “Everything is gone. I lashed out, it was horrible. I am sorry for it.”

Alsabe narrowed her eyes. “...what are you saying?”

“What I did was wrong and I am sorry. This is done with.”

“You're sorry…” she repeated dubiously.

“I am sorry for sending people after the young one,” she amended quietly.

“What did you think you were going to accomplish?”

“I don't know! Make you hurt as much as I did?” Her ice blue eyes, searched Alsa’s pale face. It was so unlike her own pink one. “Make you understand what it feels like to have nothing and no one. Permanently?”

Alsabe face hardened. “I faced that a long time ago, Iasea. I spent my life hurting, until Kajeda took me in.”

Iasea nodded. “But you still had a place to live. Clothes, food, people who would get whatever you needed.”

“Would you rather they had killed you?”

“Since the world tree burned,” she whispered. “Very much so.” Alsabe eye twitched. “I was a fool. I let myself be bitter and horrible, just like Min'da was. And now? Now I really know what it's like to feel alone. And with no chance of seeing our home again. I see our people hurting and I think it would be better if I did something...I don't know, better than what I was doing?” Alsabe looked confused. It’s working. If I just keep playing on her sympathies, I’ll have her. Iasea sniffled a little. "I just wanted you to know that I am not going to harm anyone else in your family.”

Alsa watched her in silence for a long few minutes. Very quietly she asked, “Are you expecting this to simply be forgiven?”

Iasea shook her head. “No. But I am hoping that maybe I can give you something in return.”

“What could you possibly offer?”

Iasea withdrew a piece of paper from her pocket. “The names of the three men I paid.”

Alsabe frowned. “You will give them up?”

Iasea placed the parchment on the table and slid it over to her with a single finger. “If I turn them over to you, I cannot ever use them against your family again.”

“Why, Iasea, what do you hope to gain?”

“Nothing. I just want to put it all behind me.” Alsabe looked uncertain, but lifted the note from the table. “What else can I do…sister?”

Alsabe eyes flashed a darker shade of purple. “I am not your sister,” came her guttural reply.

“Not by my choice.”

“My sister is the one whose child you tried to murder.” Iasea nodded, casting her eyes to the table. “I was cast aside, you did not reach out, you never even asked if I was all right.”

“I was forbidden to do so,” she offered quietly.

Alsabe frowned. “Where is this coming from. Iasea?  It’s not like we were close before,” she stated, looking at the names on the paper in her hand.

“Maybe that is the very problem. We never got close. Isn't that what sisters are supposed to be,” she asked gently.  “Maybe we missed out on something and Min'da's cruelty dug in too deep.” Alsabe looked troubled as Iasea shifted in the ill fitted robe. Iasea looked at her hands before returning her gaze to Alsabe. “I don't expect you will forgive me. But I hope you will trust that this is over. There will be no more threats, no more attempts on anyone.”

Alsabe rubbed her eyes. “ Iasea…” Iasea let her breath catch in her throat. Alsabe waved the note at her. “I will give them your peace offering, but...Papa does not forgive. There will be a price for what you did.”

Iasea stood and held out her hands. “You are looking at everything I have.” Alsabe looked stricken but tried to hide it. Iasea gestured to herself, “This...this is the entirety of the House of Moonwhisper. All the members, all the funding, everything.” Iasea flopped down into the chair, a tear rolling down her cheek.

Alsabe’s voice cracked slightly. “Am I supposed to feel sorry for you?”

“You feel whatever you want to feel. I am merely telling you how things stand. If there is a price to be paid, he will have to take it from me. There's nothing else.”

“It won't be money, Iasea. Papa takes payment in blood.”

Iasea held out her wrists. Her voice was quiet, resigned. “Then let him take it.” Alsabe recoiled, unprepared for that response. “I don't know what else I can do or say. If I must pay for what I did, and the price if in blood, then take it.”

“It is not my place. Papa will decide what to do.”

Iasea's eyes filled with tears, but she nodded. “I will be in the survivor's camp on the other side of the city.”

Alsabe waved the note again. “This may buy you some measure of mercy.” She looked the other woman over. “Have you eaten?” Iasea shook her head. At that, Alsabe asked the server to bring over a small meal. The other started to argue, but Alsabe insisted.

Iasea nodded her gratitude. “Is she all right? The young one, I mean.”

“She will be, she has had a team of healers on her day and night. The Silverthorns take care of their own.”

“That is good,” she whispered.

“If she died, you understand, nothing would save you,” Alsa told her. “No power in this world.”

“Like Min’da?”

“Worse.”

“I don’t even know what that means,” she countered. She nodded her thanks at the server placing the sandwich in front of her. Alsabe’s face hardened. “I don't know what was done to her, only that she was killed.”

“Pray you never do,” Alsa answered coldly.

“Who did it?”

“That is not for me to say.” Iasea sighed, and tugged on the dress again, trying to get it to sit more comfortably. Alsabe looked Iasea over. “You keep picking at that dress.”

“It doesn't fit right,” she replied quietly. “It's not mine. My clothes were destroyed escaping the tree.”

“Where did you get it?”

“One of the other survivors.” She picked up the sandwich and took a bite.

“Did you steal it,” Alsa accused her.

Iasea scowled and shook her head. “No. They gave some of their clothes to the healers.” Alsabe gazed at Iasea impassively for a moment. “It's fine. At least it's better than the singed one I had on.”

“I shall give your message to my family,” Alsa sighed. 

“Thank you Alsabe. Please, let them all know that I mean them no more harm. Nor you.”

“I can't be sure how they will react,” she responded. “Well, except in the case of your friends,” she smirked, brandishing the note. “I hope you weren’t fond of them.”

“I will take my meal and go sit back at the camp then. I wouldn't want to ruin any appetite you may have. Be safe, Alsabe.”

Alsabe gazed at Iasea, looking conflicted. “Where are you sleeping, Iasea?”

“At the camp. There's some soft patches on the ground that the druids have created. I will be fine.”

Alsabe reached into a purse and pulls out a few gold pieces, setting them on the table. “Get yourself a bed, Iasea.” Iasea shook her head, turning away. “Oh for Elune's sake don't argue.”

“Keep your money. I don't deserve it.” She stood and dusted the crumbs from the front of her dress. “Not after what I did.”

“I won't miss it, just take it.”

Iasea sighed and picked up the gold. “That is exceedingly generous of you.”

Alsabe chewed her lip. “I will try to convince my father to leave you alone for now.”

“Good night, Alsabe. Go home to your family. I won't trouble you again.”

Alsabe sighed and bowed. “Goodnight, Iasea,” she whispered. She turned and walked away as Iasea picked up the food on the table and wrapped it in a napkin. Once Alsabe was out of sight, she grinned like a cat. Go, little girl. Go off to your snug bed and think I am done with you.

Matriarch & Patriarch

The next chapter of the Iasea storyline! This piece was done with @thebiganvil. Forosuul belongs to him. 

The streets of Old Town provided a good hunting ground to if you were looking for quick, simple kills. That area of the city had become the place that the seedy underbelly of society worked their trades. The lithe Kaldorei woman paced the uneven cobblestone slowly. Spying a rat scurrying along the wall, she lurched forward and snapped its neck. She didn’t notice the demon hunter blink at the odd behavior. Two more rodents came into view and she did the same to them, splitting their small bodies open.

Leaning against the stoop, Forosuul Silverthorn watched with some confusion. “Helping keep our city beautiful?” His rasping voice surprised the woman, her pink hair whirling around as she jerked her head to look at him.

Offering him a cruel grin, “If it makes you happy to think that, sure. Why not?”

Forosuul eyed her curiously. “You don’t know who I am,” he responded, somewhat shocked.

“No,” Iasea confessed. “No, I do not. But I can hazard a guess.”

He gestured for her to do so, “By all means.”

“Judging from your coloring, you are Silverthorn.”

With an arched eyebrow he answered, “Correct.”

“Given the fact that I have only heard of one demon hunter bearing those colors, you may very well be Forosuul. The Patriarch.” The final word was spoken with the barest hint of venom and for a moment, her voice took on an odd quality that was gone as quickly as it had arrived.

He bowed before here. “Indeed.”

“And since you come on the heels of the conversation with my sis…Alsabe, I imagine you want to speak?”

“Three for three.”

“Or am I already condemned,” she asked suspiciously.

“That remains to be seen.” He gestured at the ground in front of her. “What’s with the rats?”

Iasea sighed heavily. “It’s that or lose myself to the eternal hunger.”

The man’s eyes widened. “Death knight?” She nodded at him. “Strange that Alsabe didn’t mention that.”

“She isn’t aware of it. Not exactly something I wish people to know.”

Forosuul frowned. “Seems like something difficult to hide,” he countered.

Shrugging, she explained,  “It's fairly simple to keep her from touching me. And so long as she doesn't see me in the wrong state, she won’t find out.” Forosuul watched her, his expression thoughtful. “Does that trouble you?”

“Not as such, but something doesn't add up.”

“Hmm?”

“She said you were the youngest,” he told her. 

Iasea sighed, for a moment, she seemed genuinely saddened. “She doesn't know. I was away for most of her life.”

 He scratched his chin. “You served in the wars?”

Iasea nodded, “I wanted nothing to do with Kasuura's politics.” She pushed her vibrant pink hair away from her face. Forosuul arched an eyebrow. “So I became a Sentinel. Went off to fight. It seemed better than the social climbing,” she offered. 

 Forosuul scratched his chin. “When were you raised?”

 “Some time ago. During the Third War?” She seemed to mull that over for a bit. “Or was it after...I don't remember any more.” Forosuul chuckled lightly. “It's not exactly my favorite memory.”

“Hmm...” came his reply. “So, why the change of heart?”

 Iasea looked down at the stones beneath her feet. “I lost everything when Teldrassil burned. Seeing our people...dying all around me...I realized the foolishness of what I was trying to do.” She held up her hands in what she hoped would appear to be a gesture of surrender. One that would have him believe she was sincere. “Alsabe, your family, you are not to blame for my entire family being dead.”

Forosuul smirked slightly. “Are you very sure of that?”

She nodded. “It was Kasuura's doing. Her grasping at anything she could to get back into Mire's good graces.” Forosuul looked at Iasea sidelong. Seeing this, she asked him simply, “What?”

“This is a lot to accept,” he told her. 

 Iasea inclined her head, conceding the point. “I am sorry for the attack on the little one,” she offered quietly. Forosuul jaw clenched tightly. “She had nothing to do with any of this.”

“A little late to be reaching that conclusion,” he rasped. 

“Not if my original intention was to do it to many more family members.”

Forosuul narrowed his eyes. “Do you actually think you could have succeeded?”

“Kill all of you? No,” she lied. “But I wanted her to feel the way I did. Watch the people who mattered disappear one by one.”

“Well, you didn't even manage one,” he smirked. “If you had, nothing in this world could save you.  Do you understand?”

 “No. The men I hired were not...” she lowered her head. “I know.”

 “Oh, speaking of them...” he shifted, the threatening tone easing. “Why give them up?”

“If I give you my weapons, I cannot use them against you,” she replied. 

“One might argue they were pretty shitty weapons,” he laughed. 

“Perhaps. Some of the fault lies with me. I did not know that the girl had training,” she stated sullenly. Forosuul chuckled. “As such, they were not prepared for a fight.”

“They got one.”

“I heard.” She grunted, her expression seeming almost impressed, though she was guarded enough not to let much of that show. “She broke Thivo's collarbone.”

“He won’t have to worry about it much longer,” he grinned at her. Iasea sighed, but nodded. “Did you think I would grant them mercy?”

Iasea shook her head. “If they were honest about what they do, I doubt very much anyone would.”

“Did they tell you what they did to her?”

“They told me they beat her and tossed her off the cliff as was discussed. But she didn't land in the water,” she responded, with only the slightest hint of regret. 

Forosuul’s face went hard. “They kicked her until her ribs broke, one of them smashed her cheek,” he growled. “They shattered one of her arms as well.” Iasea winced. “And her leg. If we had found her any later, she’d have died.”

Iasea hung her head, her ears drooping for maximum effect.  “If they had done as instructed, she would have,” she told him softly. 

 Forosuul jaw clenched. “What were the instructions,” he demanded. 

“Knock her around until she was unconscious. Tie the note where it would be found and toss her in the water.” She swallowed. “The hope was she would die from the fall or drown. The small inlet there would have kept her visible for a few days until she was located.” This is it. This is where he will kill me, now that I’ve admitted it. 

 Forosuul clenched his fists, his knuckles losing what little color they had. “You should stop talking about it now.”

Iasea nodded, “I am sorry.”

“So what now for you?”

“I have no idea,” she shrugged. “If I can find some way to earn enough to replace my armor and weapons, I will go fight.” 

Forosuul looked at Iasea sidelong. “Fight where,” he asked her warily. 

“Wherever the Horde are,” she answered. Forosuul arched a long eyebrow. “What happened to my House was the result of Kasuura's scheming. But now I have nothing and our people have no place to gather strength. The Horde need to pay for that.”

“If I find you near any member of my House,” he whispered menacingly. “Or if they tell me you have so much as nodded in their direction, that is it for you, do you understand?”

“I do.”

“Your fate is not yet decided, Iasea,” he hissed. 

“No need for the threats. I will not be bothering your people any longer.”

 “Judgement for your actions is delayed.” The felfire behind his mask flared. “When this business with the horde is done...then I will decide what happens to you.”

“As you say.”  Iasea tipped her head to one side. “Tell me, why did you feel the need to take Alsabe in? She did your family no favors before losing her own.”

Forosuul narrowed his eyes. Discussion of his adopted daughter was a very sensitive topic and for someone who had threatened the House, a dangerous one. “She was a victim and she was of our bloodline.”

Iasea nodded at first before blinking. “What?”

“How many people have you ever seen that looked like me?”

“Not many, but enough,” she answered. 

The demon hunter smirked. “Every single one was Silverthorn, although most don’t know it.” He leaned back, watching her reaction. 

Both of her eyebrows shot up. “Is that so? Interesting.”

Forosuul nodded. “Alsabe was sent by Kasuura to spy on us, and she was very, very bad at it.” Iasea barked out a laugh. “She harmed us not at all, and ultimately became one of us.”

“I am not surprised she was a bad spy. It is not the skill she was most talented at.”

Forosuul narrowed his eyes. “Tread carefully,” he warned. 

“What she was best at was getting people to pay attention to her,” she grinned. 

A deep growl rumbled from the man before her. “I may stand here without armor or weapons, but it would require no effort whatsoever for me to take your life.”

 Her ice blue eyes flared in her face. “She could purr a name, anyone's really and they would take notice. I am not talking about the other things,” she quickly added. “I am speaking simply of her ability to draw anyone she wanted to, into conversation. If a distraction was needed, she could provide it.”

His entire body had gone rigid. “You would be wise to stop talking about her.  Now.”

Sensing she had reached his limit on patience, “I do not know what more I can say to prove my sincerity.”

Forosuul narrowed his eyes and studied her carefully. Iasea met that gaze, unfaltering. “There is something you are hiding,” he stated. 

 “What ever would that be,” she asked, doing everything in her power to sound genuinely confused. 

“You tell me.”

 With a shrug, “There is nothing left for me to tell.” 

“I doubt that very much,” he said flatly. Iasea chuckled mirthlessly, shaking her head. “You stand there acting contrite over your actions, but you carry yourself with far too much confidence for one who is supposedly so shaken.”

“I am sorry for what I have done,” she offered with her hands held out in a gesture of surrender. “I have given you everything I am capable of. You know my little secret, kept so carefully from Alsabe.”

 “In my experience, people with secrets rarely keep only one.”

“The only thing left is what you see,” she stated sullenly. 

“I see more than most,” he grinned at her. “You are not quite so alone as you would have me believe. Someone is helping you, but who that is, I cannot say. Not yet.”

 “Am I not?” 

 “You will be watched,” he warned her. “Just understand that.”

 “I thought as much. I would do the same, in your position,” she looked thoughtful. “May I ask something of you?”

 Forosuul arched an eyebrow. “Go ahead,” he waved to offer her permission, mostly out of curiosity. 

“Look after Alsabe,” came the unexpected request. “There is still so much good in her. Do not let her become soured by our people's politics like Kasuura.”

Forosuul narrowed his eyes. He straightened, his tattoos flaring. “I look after my daughter very well. Her show of mercy is the sole reason you are alive.”

She nodded and responded quietly. “Good. Someone should.”

 “Now you answer a question for me.”

 “All right.”

“If someone should look after her, why didn't you?”

 “She was not my daughter,” she sighed. “I had no say in the matter. By the time I returned, I was not the person I used to be.”

“A weak excuse,” he sneered. “But I suppose fitting, from one of your House.”

Iasea shrugged. “It is all I have to offer.” Forosuul grunted. “If you knew Kasuura, you would know why.”

A slow evil grin spread over his face. “In the end, I knew Kasuura very well.”

Iasea peered at Forosuul, her cold blue eyes flashing for the briefest of moments. Forosuul let out a low chuckle. “There was no protection for Alsabe, so long as she was under Kasuura's control.” She offered the information even as he took two steps closer, his form hovering over her. “The best thing for her was to leave,” she added barely above a whisper. 

“She is very well protected now,” he growled. “Do not test that statement.”

“I have no intention to.”

“We shall see. I think our business is concluded, Iasea Moonwhisper,” he paused, mostly for effect. “For now.” Iasea bowed low to him. “When the Horde has been shattered, you will see me again.”

“If I survive.”

“If you do not, then our argument will be put to rest,” he chuckled. Though not so deep within him, he was still wishing he could simply kill her right there. 

Iasea nodded. “Will I be seeing you on the battlefield?”

“It is possible.”

“Should I watch for an attack from friendly fire?” It seemed a fair question to her mind. 

“I told you that judgement was delayed,” he answered, not a little annoyed. “I keep my promises” Iasea nodded, conceding his point. “Until we meet again, Iasea.”

“Farewell, Forosuul Silverthorn.”

“Enjoy your rat killing,” he mocked. 

Iasea grinned at him until he turned and began to walk away. Fast as a cat, another rodent was in her hands. She ripped its head from its body as she glared at his retreating back. “Not as much as I would much, much larger vermin,” she growled under her breath. “Not as much as all of you.”

The Houndmaster

Hey all! @thebiganvil has written the next chapter of the Iasea Storyline!

Please go check it out!

The Houndmaster

Tension and Release Part 1

A collaboration with @devsash and @thebiganvil

Find the story parts here!

(Assault on the Cliffs)(Found)(Coming Together 1) (Coming Together 2) (Retrieval Gone Wrong)

Eliân pulled the split cigar from her mouth and sneered at him. “What the fel was that for? Do I know you?” She looked him over, as she slid a small pistol from her pocket. She raised it, waiting.

Mehe ignored the pistol. "What did you want with Niqi?" he demanded, unperturbed.

“Oh for love of...another one? I didn’t want a damned thing with her. I was sent to gather her, ok?” She flung the broken cigar to the side, her eyes never leaving him.

Mehe's eyes narrowed. "What for?"

“Not any of your business,” She grunted. “House members are the only ones privy to that.”

Mehe arched an eyebrow at that. The shadows drew swiftly towards him, obscuring his form. He dodged out of the line of fire, hurling his dagger at the hand gripping the pistol. Eliân tried to turn, but wasn’t quite fast enough. The dagger caught the end of the barrel, knocking it aside and pulling it from her grip. She fired unintentionally, though by some luck, she only hit the corner of a building. In an instant, she reached into a pouch and threw down a handful of flash powder, allowing herself time to vanish and begin to search for him.

Clever. A grin touched Mehe's lips. He drew the cloak of darkness more closely around him as a shadowy dagger materialised in his gloved hand. Holding his breath, he listened for the telltale creak of leathers or rustle of cloth as he crept forward. Eli moved ever so slowly, dropping a smoke bomb, further obscuring her from view. “Why are you interested in the girl?” She whispered, moving a moment after asking. Mehe did not deign to reply. He stood still as his ears twitched at the soft hiss of the smoke bomb, noting where her voice had come from.

She moved slowly, her soft soles moving silently along the stones. She positioned herself on a small ledge opposite from her previous location. “We can do this all day...or we can talk.” Mehe considered this, turning his head to peer in the direction of her voice. He retreated from the cloud of smoke, the shadows muffling any sounds of his movement. She tossed two smoke bombs in opposite directions, watching them roll along the ground. “My job is to keep the House safe. Give me a reason to assume you are no threat to them.” She shimmered into view.

Mehe grimaced. Much as he was enjoying this game, the bloody Kaldorei woman was taking up too much of his time. Niqi could be in Kalimdor by now for all he knew. He reluctantly crept further away from the smoke, edging his way towards the path back to the Cathedral.

“That includes her, in case you are wondering.” She took out another cigar and lit it.

He paused at that, glancing back at her. "How do I know if you're telling the truth?”

“You don’t. But I will tell you this. There is a very angry monk meditating in the doorway. Her mate was assaulted by 3 men in stealth. Go check it you don’t believe me.”

"Hmm." Mehe straightened, allowing his cloak to fade away, though the dagger remained in his hand. "Is Niqi safe?”

“She has been delivered to her mate and family.”

"Is she safe?" he repeated.

“Yes.” She raised a long eyebrow. “Why?”

"My mate will need to know." He turned around to head back towards the Cathedral.

“Where are you going?” She demanded, hopping down from the ledge.

"To see if what you said is true.”

“For your mate. Why does you mate need to know?” She strode over to him, ready for an issue, but trying to determine if he is any threat to the family.

"She's important to him." Mehe glanced at her impassively. "You did just bloody burst your way in and hauled her off right in front of him.”

Eli grunted. “I had a job to do. Tell me your mate wasn’t the one with the tendril…” Mehe gave her a deadpan look. His eyes did not return to their usual blue as the black blade of his dagger gleamed in his hand. “I’m going to take that for a yes.” Her own thin dagger slipped into her hand. “I wouldn’t have even spoken with him if he hadn’t interfered.” He snorted derisively, turning towards the Cathedral. "I would advise you not try to enter the area of the infirmary she is in." Eli cautioned him.

"And why would I take advice from someone who, for all I know, just kidnapped my mate's friend?”

She shrugged. "Your life. There's ten members of the House in there. Nine of them ready to kill just about anyone who enters that is not one of them.”

"Mehe!" Anas's worried voice rang out, startling him. The Ren'dorei man turned to peer at his mate sprinting towards him. Anas slowed to a halt a few steps away from them. "You," he murmured in recognition, seeing the Kaldorei woman. Eli prickled.

With the sound of a herd of charging elephants, an enormous lightforged draenei came galumphing up behind Anas. Despite his enormous size and charging movements, he seemed no worse for the activity. Mehe's gaze slid to the newcomer. "Who's that?" he asked, his grip tightening on the dagger.

Eli turned to the Draenei. An enormous grin wrapped her features. “Hey, Big Man.” Sutrakarre nodded to Eli but gave her a cautioning glance.

"This is Sutrakarre. He said Niqi's fine." Anas stepped towards Mehe. "Are you okay?" he asked, glancing at the dagger in Mehe's hand.

"He's fine." Eli muttered. "We've been dancing a bit, but no one is harmed.”

The dagger vanished from Mehe's hand as his eyes faded to their pale blue once more. "More like wasting my damn time." He glanced at Sutrakarre. "You think he's telling the truth about Niqi?”

A deep frown broke across Sutrakarre's craggy face. "Sutrakarre does not lie," he rumbled in an offended tone.

"Of course not," Anas said hastily. "Mehe was just—"

"They wouldn't know that, Big Guy." She walked over to stand beside him. She placed a hand on his arm. Sutrakarre grunted, looking unhappy.

"You'll understand why I don't take the word of someone in league with this woman." Mehe gestured at Eli.

Anas nudged him. "Stop antagonizing him," he hissed under his breath. "Do you want him to squash you flat?”

Sutrakarre blinked, alternating his gaze between the two men. Finally he looked at Eli, saying, "What is wrong with these men?”

Eliân shrugged. "Fel if I know. All I tried to do was gather the girl and get back here. Turned into a whole thing.”

The big draenei gave Eli side-eye, and added, "Sutrakarre think Eli might have been rough, yes?” She responded with a look of feigned shock and insult.  Sighing, Sutrakarre replied, "Rough maybe wrong word. Maybe Eli was…abrupt?"

Eliân shrugged. "So? Not like I was taking her to a party.”

"Let's just back away really slowly," Anas whispered to Mehe. The Ren’dorei shot him an incredulous look.

Giving her a reproachful look, Sutrakarre turned back to Anas, bowing his head slightly. "Anas, please to pass on message from Nee-kee to tiny suspicious man. Eli and Sutrakarre must be about our duty.” He placed a large hand on Eliân’s back and gently nudged her to go inside.

Anas froze. "Oh! Uh, yes. I'll tell Mehe." He bowed at the Draenei man. Mehe said nothing, eyeing the duo.

"Am I to be expected to trust these people?" Eli shot Sutrakarre an irritated look. "They could be involved.”

"Eli, these friends of Nee-kee. She ask me to deliver message so they not worry,” the large Draenei offered. His attempt to calm the situation was cut off when Mehe snapped back at her.

"You could be involved, you bloody--"

"Stop it, Mehe." Anas grasped the shorter man's shoulder warningly.

Eli's head snapped to Mehe.  "If I was not willing to kill you and risk incurring the wrath of the House Patriarch, why in the fel would I do something so stupid as to try to kill his niece," she hissed.

Mehe scoffed. "Kill me? Hah! As if someone so incompetent--"

"No one's killing anyone, okay?" Anas glanced at Eli. "Mehe and I are going. Just leave us alone, please." Mehe's ears twitched at the pleading note in Anas's voice. His tendrils coiled reassuringly around Anas’s hand still resting on his shoulder.

Eli's hands flicked up, blindingly fast. Two small daggers left her fingers, removing a lock of hair from both men. "I am very deliberate about what I do. Make no mistake about that." She stooped and picked up the hair, stuffing it into her pouch. "I have no fight with you. Unless I find out that either of you had something to do with this attack." Turning to Sutrakarre, "I'm going to report in. Everyone is gathered now. Say whatever you need to these...individuals." She started towards the Cathedral door.

Sutrakarre sensed that the situation was coming to a head. Both Eli and the void elf were practically vibrating in their desire to pick a fight. Heaving a great inward sigh, he realized he would have to get their attention off one another. Moving far faster than a person of his size should be capable of, he whipped the spear from his back and laid the flat of the blade along the void elf's cheek. "Do not move!" he bellowed. "Sutrakarre has had enough of crazy elfs for one day!” Eli froze. She turned to Sutrakarre, surprised.

"No!" Anas cried. "Don't hurt him!"

"See?" Mehe said stonily. "I knew that Niqi girl was bad news. She, her bloody demon hunter friend and the rest of her crazy family." He glanced back at the Draenei man. "You can take that out of my face, malanore. Anas and I are leaving Stormwind. For good.”

Sutrakarre blinked, somewhat taken aback. Chewing on his lip for a moment, he finally rumbled, "Tiny elf show disrespect and baseless suspicion. Never admit fault or admit wrongdoing. Tiny elf is coward or worst kind. City better off.”

"Whatever." Mehe did not take his eyes off the Draenei. "Come, Anas. We don't have anything more to do with these... people.”

Slowly, Sutrakarre pulled his blade back, planting the butt of the spear on the ground. "Walk away, little man. Keep mask of courage. All know it is lie."

Eli raised an eyebrow. "That was surprisingly harsh for you." She grinned wickedly. "I suppose I should go inside and tell the little girl that she won't be seeing them again.”

"Tell her whatever you like, I don't give a damn." Mehe took Anas's hand, ignoring the horrified look on his mate's face. He turned around, pulling Anas after him. "Pack your things. We're leaving now.”

Watching the tableau, Sutrakarre said to Eli, "Feel sorry for tall skinny one. He seemed nice.”

She shrugged, "He's got a dangerous side to him. Might have been a good ally if he's truly a friend."

Tindomiel stepped out of the Cathedral, her pale face weary. She noticed the scene and smiled towards Anas and Mehe. "Anas! Mehe! Please, don't go just yet! I wish to speak to you.”

"Keep your bloody words to yourself," Mehe said without looking at her. "I'm done with all of you."

"Mehe, stop! Where would we go?" Anas asked, craning his neck to peer fearfully back at Sutrakarre and Eliân.

"Anywhere away from these people," the Ren'dorei retorted.

Tindomiel looked genuinely hurt. "I don't understand..." She turned to the green haired Kaldorei. "Eliân. You need to go inside now. Forosuul wants to speak with you." She called out to the men. "Please! Wait," she pleaded.

Sutrakarre looked back and forth, confused.

"Anas! Please! Niqi is asking to see you," she tried. "I cannot let her leave for her safety, but...will you come in?”

Anas paused at that, concerned. "Is she okay?"

"He's not seeing her," Mehe snapped.

"It can't hurt to--"

Mehe whirled on him, his eyes blazing. "I defer to your judgement on many things, but not this one. I'm damn well not about to let you get attacked again.”

“Attacked?!” Tindomiel’s eyes went wide. “Who? Who did this?” Eliân started to make her way up the steps without a word.

"Ask that one." Mehe pointed at Eli. "And that one." He jabbed a finger at Sutrakarre. "I don't appreciate anyone attacking my mate. Now just leave us the hell alone.”

“Eliân? Sutra?” Tindo looked visibly upset.

Eliân shrugged. “I didn’t attack them. I was making a point about my ski....” she fell suddenly silent at the look on Tindomiel’s face. Tindomiel’s usually silver eyes, had gone purple.

Tindomiel turned back to Mehe. “Tell me.”

"She can play at throwing her daggers all the livelong day, but she threw one at Anas and I will never tolerate that." He pointed at Sutrakarre. "He backed her up too.”

Tindomiel slowly turned to Eliân with a look that would melt iron. “There is nothing you can say to me right now. Go inside.”

Tindomiel sank down to the steps, her silver hair falling into her face. “I am sorry, Mehe. Anas. Sutra was likely protecting her. Though I will let him speak his mind in a moment.” She held up her hands in a display of surrender. “Anas...Niqi is safe, but very upset. She is worried about you after what happened. She wants to see her brother, she said.”

Anas's face crumpled at her words. "Niqi..." he murmured. "I need to go to her."

Mehe shook his head. "No. I won't allow it."

"Stop it! You're just as bad as she is!" Anas rounded on his mate, suddenly toweringly angry. "Why couldn't you listen to me? What else did you think was going to happen with you two egging each other on?" He yanked his hand free of Mehe's grasp. "I'm going in to see her," he said firmly before hurrying up the steps of the Cathedral.

“Anas wait,” she reached up and pulled a feather from her shoulder guard. “Give this to the violet haired woman at the door. Tell her I sent you. One of Kalimè’s attackers was a Kaldorei with blue hair.” She held the feather out to him.

Anas accepted the feather with a nod.

(Tension and Release Part 2)

Tension and Release Part 2

This chapter is a collaboration with @devsash. Read (Part 1) here!

Upstairs in a private area of the Cathedral infirmary:

Niqi wass curled up in the corner of the room with a small blanket. She had hidden herself between the wall and a bookshelf in an attempt to have her own little space. Her hair was a tousled mess, ears turned down. She picked at the corner of the cloth, fussing over a badly stitched edge.

"Niqi?" Anas called, his footsteps swift as he hurried up the stairs. He paused at the landing, glancing around before spotting her tiny figure in the corner.

The young Ren’dorei looked up, purple eyes finding him. “Anas? They...they let you come?” Tears had streaked her face and had been allowed to dry on her cheeks.

He nodded, stepping towards her before falling to his knees. "I was... so worried... about you," he choked out.

Niqi crawled out, curling up against him. “I’m so sorry,” she sobbed into his chest.

He hugged her tightly. "Are you hurt?"

Muffled by his embrace, she shook her head. “No. She didn’t hurt me,” she sniffled. “But Anas...you used your powers! I’m sorry! I know you don’t like to…to...” She leaned back to look at him, distressed.

He shook his head at once, sending his long ears waggling. "I thought she was trying to kidnap you. I couldn't just stand by and let it happen.” He pulled her into him again, squeezing her small frame.

"I was so scared,” she cried out. “I thought she was going to hurt you! That's why I told you to stop."

He sighed. "Well, you're safe now, thank Elune. How long will you be here?"

“I’m not certain.” She sat back, keeping herself close to him. “This whole thing is so scary. People attacked Æl’s sister. They tried to kill her.” She shuddered hard. “They said that I could be in danger because they have probably been watching Æl.”

"I saw Æl and Este on my way here. They look like they can keep you safe." He patted her back reassuringly.

She searched the face of the Kaldorei she had grown so close to.. “But what about you? What if...what if they look for me..and you...” The worry behind her eyes darkened them further.

Anas sighed again. "Mehe wants us to leave the city," he said reluctantly.

Niqi's face shifted to one of shock and horror. "But...where will you go? You can't...how will I find you?" Tears started to fill her eyes.

Anas's heart twisted at the sight of her tearful eyes. "Don't cry, little one," he murmured, placing his hand atop her head. "You know I wouldn't just vanish on you like that."

"What about your shop? I thought we...we were going to..." her words failed her, unlike her grandfather. He would know what to say, she thought to herself. "You're my brother now. No matter what happens,” she said in a matter-of-fact tone.

"You mean that?" he asked softly. "You really think of me as your brother?"

The small Ren'dorei nodded. She hoped that Mehe had been truthful with her. If not, she was making a fool of herself. "You are more than my friend, dear Anas. I never had a brother before. But I imagine it feels very much like this."

A joyful smile spread over Anas's features. "I've thought of you the same way for the longest time, little one." He gently smoothed down her unkempt hair before returning his hand to its former position atop her head, his voice becoming solemn. "With Mother Moon as my witness, I hereby take a vow to love and respect you, Niquisse Greythorn, as my own sister for as long as you'll have me as your brother."

She leaned back, the deep purple in her eyes fading away. "You really mean that? Truly?"

"Yes, I do." He smiled at her.

Laughing brightly through her tears, she launched her tiny frame at him. Throwing her arms around his neck, she exclaimed, “Always! You will always be my brother!”

He chuckled, hugging her gently. "We'll see to our shop once this business blows over."

Releasing him from her hold, she revealed a expression of joy, surprise, and sadness, all blended into one. Despite all that, her voice was hopeful. “You promise?”

"I promise," he said, still smiling.

She smiled happily at him. “Then you will have to find a location. Since I’m kinda stuck. Oh! And order a new work table! I won’t have my big brother hunching anymore.” She turned to grab her bag, realizing it wasn’t there. She looked under the bookshelf, and shrugged.

"I'll have to try and talk Mehe out of leaving as well." Anas rubbed his forehead tiredly.

The young Ren’dorei gently smoothed his long blue hair. “You need rest, Anas.”

"I doubt I'll get any. Mehe can be incredibly stubborn sometimes, especially when someone tries to threaten me."

"You mean Eliân?"

Anas blinked, surprised. "You know about that?”

“Well, she told me she was going to kill you. Isn’t that what you mean?” She looked confused.

He shook his head. "Mehe got into a confrontation with her. She ended up throwing daggers at the both of us." He fingered the severed lock of hair, shivering.

Niqi reached out, placing her hand along his cheek. Her blue eyes were wide with concern. The voices in her head started whispering, but she pushed them away and focused on her brother. “Are you all right? She didn’t hurt you, did she?” She turned back toward the door for a moment, looking to see who might be listening. Finding no one, she brought her attention back to Anas.

He shook his head again. "She cut off some of my hair. Mehe was mad. He's killed people for less."

She gently moved her fingers down to the cut lock of hair. “Why would she do this?” Bringing her other hand up, letting it join the other. Her hands started to softly glow in shimmering violet and blue around the strands of hair.

Anas sighed. "You know Mehe and his sharp tongue. He took issue with Eli saying that we could be 'involved' and it just got worse from there."

Her fingers slowly moved downwards, moving hand over hand as she passed the lock through. The cut hair grew longer as she did so. “So she accused you of having something to do with what happened to Kalimè? That’s terrible!”

He nodded distractedly. "What are you doing?" he asked, watching her glowing fingers with interest.

She smiled up at him. “Fixing my brother’s hair.”

He blinked. "I didn't know you could do that."

Niqi giggled as she continued her work. “Living in Silvermoon, everyone picks up a little arcane use. I can’t do a lot with it. And I am not doing it to mine right now because I made Æl a promise.”

He nodded. "Wonder if Mehe can do it," he mused.

“He might be able to. It’s a mending spell. Different than healing. It’s more...like making repairs to the strands themselves.” She worked her way down, almost reaching the same length as the rest.

"It seems useful if you want to change your style once in awhile." He grinned at her.

“It is!” She sighed happily as she finished her work. She released it from her fingers and tipped her head, giving it an appraising gaze. “There. All fixed. At least...the hair part.”

"Thank you, little one." He ran his fingers through the restored strands, marvelling at her work. "I can't even tell where she cut it."

“It was the least I could do for all the trouble I’ve caused.” She sat back and pulled her knees to her chest. Resting her chin on them, she began to chew on the inside of her lower lip. Raking her fingers through her own hair, she left a trail of sparkles as the strands smoothed back into place.

Anas shook his head. "If you mean me using the Void, I'd do it without a thought if your safety was at stake."

“I would do the same for you.” She smiled faintly. “You are very powerful. I had no idea.”

"You could tell?" Anas asked, his cheeks darkening with mortification.

She nodded, impressed. “It was like you were suddenly more. If that makes sense. And you held that horse at bay. And your voice!” She lifted her face as she spoke, making a gesture that indicated the booming quality that he had achieved.

"More?" he echoed confusedly before clearing his throat. "Ah yes. My, uh, voice.”

“It was like you suddenly had this commanding presence. My sweet brother became someone who should be listened to. Because refusing to do so would be very, very bad.” She placed a hand on his arm and gave him a squeeze.

"I probably would've done something very, very bad if she hadn't threatened to kill you,"  he admitted.

“Oh Anas!” She leaned into him. She sighed, looking around again for her bag. Soft footsteps were heard coming up the stairs. Niqi peered around Anas to see Lilybeth mounting the final step. She bowed her head slightly to the Kaldorei woman.

Anas glanced around, spotting her. "Lilybeth! How are you?”

The woman tried to smile, her face softening. "Hello, Anas." She indicated the small room to the side where her daughter rested in a healing sleep. "I have had much better days.”

He nodded. "I'm sorry about what happened.”

“Thank you, Anas. You have always been so kind.” She turned to Niqi. “We will be leaving in the morning. Gilræn has sent for your gear. I assume you will be staying with my son while we are there?”  Niqi nodded slowly, as though trying to understand. “We are gathering in a safe place until we can figure out what to do and how to safeguard everyone. Niqi...forgive me dear,” she winced at the Ren’dorei before turning back towards Anas. “She is not a good fighter. And until we know it is safe, she must remain among those who can protect her.”

He nodded. "I understand. She would be safer with everyone.”

Niqi turned purple. “I’m sorry to be a burden,” she whispered. “Is there any way I can still go to work?” She asked hopefully, but her eyes betrayed her doubts.

“Not right away. Could you work at the fortress?” Lily offered.

"I'm not sure how we could work it out with Wynne," Anas said apologetically.

Niqi turned to Anas, her eyes wide and filled with tears. “There has to be some way I can help! I don’t want to leave you to do it all alone.”

Anas's brow furrowed in thought. "If we had transference runestones, perhaps we could send orders back and forth?" He shrugged. "I don't know, little one. I'm open to ideas.”

Lilybeth smiled wide. “Give me a moment.” She turned and wandered down the stairs.

Niqi looked confused. “I don’t know what is was you just suggested, but I think Lady Lilybeth got an idea.”

"They're enchanted stones that come in pairs," Anas explained. "You put something on one of them and it'll be sent to its pair."

“So I could still help?”

He nodded. "Almost like you were right there beside me." He rubbed his forehead again. "Though I don't know where we could find a pair like that. They're really expensive to come by."

Lily’s soft voice comes from behind him. “You ask a mage who doesn’t mind making them.” The woman set a small basket beside him and settled onto the floor. Carefully, she selected a couple of reasonably flat stones from within. Lily placed them on the floor and raised her left hand. It glowed violet as a rune appeared on the first stone. She held her hand above it for a moment as the image turned twice before bringing her hand down with an audible thud. She repeated the process with the other.

Anas watched, fascinated. "Where did you learn it?" he asked.

“Oh, let’s see... my preferred method is from a book titled ‘Migration of Solids’ written about 2 thousand years ago by a stuffy old Quel’dorei.” She picked up a smaller stone and tested the two runestones out. Once satisfied, she turned them over and began the process again. But this time, a small circle of runes appeared.

"What are those for?" he asked, pointing at the runes.

Lily grinned. “A little something I stumbled on by accident recently. Put your thumbs in the center please,” she instructed.

Anas carefully did as he was bid. "What happens now?” Niqi did the same, watching carefully.

Lily smiled. She brought her hands down over theirs and a flash of purple filled the air. “You can remove them now.” She picked them up and inspected each carefully. “Something special for you both. If you want to speak with one another, place your thumb on the print there and say the other’s name. You’ll be able to hear each other speak.”

"Really?" Anas peered at the stones, intrigued. "Even if we're really far away?"

“Even if,” she smiled wearily. Gathering up her things, she wandered into Kalimè’s room and closed the door.  Niqi sat there, dumbfounded.

Anas picked one of the stones up to examine it. "How amazing," he murmured. "Well, these would make our work a lot easier, little one. It'd be like you were right there in the shop with me."

“Not quite as good as being right there with you. But close!” She looked at the stone in her hand then held it to her chest. “At least I know you won’t have to it all alone.”

"I'm glad." Anas pocketed his stone. "I'll explain it to Wynne.”

“Anas?”

He glanced at her askance. "Yes, little one?”

“Thank you.”

He smiled at her. "No. Thank you, Niqi. For everything you've done.”

She blushed. “I haven’t even done anything!”

He chuckled. "Of course you have! You stood up for me, gave Mehe and myself food, let me design your wedding dress, helped share the workload..." He grinned. "Need I go on?”

Niqi practically turned black, she blushed so hard. “I just wanted to help,” she replied softly.

"And you did, so very much." He smiled at her.

“You made me feel like I belonged. Before I even met my family, you helped me find my feet here. I can never repay that,” she whispered. “And what you did today…”

"It was the least I could do for you." He patted her shoulder. "Well, I suppose I should get back to Mehe and talk to him. Get him to reconsider leaving Stormwind."

Niqi nodded. She scrambled to her feet, straightening her blouse. “Tell him I am sorry? Please?”

He nodded, rising as well. "I will, little one. Promise me you'll look after yourself, okay?”

“Only If you promise the same,” she countered with a smile. “I love you, Anas.”

"I promise." He bent to kiss her forehead. "I love you too, Niqi.”

She wrapped her arms about his waist. “Al diel shala, Anas.”

"Elune be with you, little one." He straightened. "I'll be in touch with you through the runestone."

“Remember to stretch,” she instructed, fussing over the folds in his cloth belt. “And eat. And...” She tried to hold back her tears. “I will send word when we are at the fortress.”’

"I will." He squeezed her shoulders gently. "Chin up, little one. This will all be over soon.”

“Thanks, Anas.” She gave him one last squeeze before stepping back to allow him to leave.

He nodded before turning to leave. “I love you, my brother,” she whispered to his back.

His ears twitched at her words. He turned around and swept her up into a warm hug. "I love you too, little one," he said, smiling at her.

She giggled at the hug. “I’m going to miss you so much. But you better go or Mehe is going to think we did something to you.”

"Yes, of course." He set her down carefully. "Be safe, Niqi. I'll miss you too." With a final wave of farewell, he descended the stairs, vanishing from sight. Niqi picked up the blanket and went back to her corner. She curled up against the wall wishing things could go back to normal.

(Part 3)

Iasea Storyline

This story is getting fairly long, with many chapters, so I thought I should make a post with links to each chapter :)

Multiple chapters are a collaboration with @thebiganvil and @devsash. 

1. Assault on the Cliffs

2. Found

3. Coming Together Part 1

4. Coming Together Part 2

5. Retrieval Gone Wrong

6. Tension and Release Part 1

7. Tension and Release Part 2

8. Tension and Release Part 3

9. Tension and Release Part 4

10. To Safety

11. Time to Heal

12. The Houndmaster (written by @thebiganvil)

13. The Argument Part 1

14. The Argument Part 2

15. The Argument Part 3

16. The Other Side

17. Calling a Truce

18. Matriarch & Patriarch

19. An Ally for the Enemy

An Ally for the Enemy

Hi all! This one turned out quite long so I don’t want to clog up anyone’s space. Another chapter by myself and @thebiganvil.

This is the next chapter of Iasea’s Revenge.

An Ally for the Enemy

Tension and Release Part 4

The final chapter of this section! A Collaboration with @devsash 

The previous chapter (Part 3) Find a link list here of all the Chapters of the (Iasea Storyline!)

Leaving the Cathedral Steps

She chuckled lightly at the sensation. "They tingle." Once on level ground, she steadied a bit. "You can check on Anas this way as well. Whew...I don't know how Sutrakarre does this. He won't eat at all. Says the fasting helps.” "Hmm." Mehe glanced at his tendrils. "If you're feeling steady enough, I'll let go.” "I think I am. Those are very handy." She turned to the right and started towards the Mage Quarter. "Thank you for helping me.” "You're welcome." His tendrils slipped free of her arm. "I admit I still forget about them a lot.” "Still a new thing for you I would imagine. Do you have any control over them?" She asked, genuinely curious. He nodded. "When I focus, yes.” "And they react to your emotions. Interesting." She turned towards the tunnel, holding out a hand to steady herself along the wall. "Among other things," he said. His tendrils reached out again to help steady her. "Elune..." she whispered. "I didn't think I was this weak.” Mehe stepped closer, wrapping his arm around her waist to help her. "It's okay. We're almost there.” She offered him a weary smile. "I have never had to deal with so many injuries before. What they did… killing her would have been much faster. They meant to be cruel." She forced herself to keep moving. Mehe's tendrils curled around her shoulders and wrist as he walked slowly, bracing her as best as he could. "I'm sorry. Why did they go after her?” "You remember I said that Eliân let someone live, believing she was innocent?" He nodded. His eyes glanced around watchfully, scanning the passers by. She lowered her voice, "Her House was responsible for the torture and subsequent murder of Lilybeth's mother. The Matriarch of the House was my adoptive daughter's birth mother. She pimped out my daughter for political favors. When Lilybeth's mother was killed, Forosuul ordered everyone involved eliminated.” He pondered this. "Which means someone was spared by your... assassin.” She nodded. "She went through, on very limited time and got the people out who had no apparent ties to the events. She couldn't find any connection to Iasea. So she drugged her and stuck her on a boat to Pandaria. And then killed everyone else, save the Matriarch. Forosuul took care of her.” "So this Iasea is behind the attack." Mehe glanced up at her grimly. "Are you certain it's still safe for Anas to be in the shop?” "She is after the family. She has targeted Alsabe, her once sister. The note that was tied to Kalimè's hand said ‘You will learn what it feels like.’ I do not think the Anas is in any real danger." She paused a moment as her feet found the grass. "Niqi would have been a target to get to Ælithil.” He nodded. "Is it safe for you to be out here then?” "Probably not. But the family needs to eat. Someone had to go. The others are standing guard over the ones who cannot fight. Like Niqi and Kali. Anyone trying to enter will pay dearly if they do not have word from a family member. It's why I gave Anas the feather.” "Right." He glanced at the door to the tavern. "We're almost there.” "Oh thank Elune." She stumbled up the ramp, nodding to one of the tables close by. "I need to sit down.” He helped her into a chair. "I'll get your tea," he said, his tendrils uncurling from her. She nodded dully and put her head down on the table. Mehe stepped inside briskly, calling for the server. Tindomiel fumbled into a pocket and retrieved a small piece of paper with a list of food items. She put it down on the table along with a handful of coins. He emerged moments later, the server behind him. "You want anything to eat?" the Ren'dorei asked. "Just get this stuff… for the family..." she mumbled. "I'm fine.” Mehe picked the list up, glancing over it briefly before handing it along with the coins to the server. "A cup of white tea and a few muffins for the lady as well," he said. Tindo lifted her head up, frowning. "I didn't ask for muffins." She sighed. "I just needed some tea to wake me up.” He shook his head. "Muffins," he repeated firmly. "Three of them." The server nodded before returning inside. “Mehe...” She pursed her lips. “That is not necessary.” He sat down. "I'm not about to let you bloody fall over here if I can help it.” “From that tone, I am going to assume this is not up for debate.” She chuckled a little. "It isn't." He leaned back. "I was harsh with you earlier. I'm sorry.” Tindo smiled gently. “It was a stressful situation. The fact that you see it, makes all the difference. Apology accepted, Mehe.” He nodded, his tendrils curling idly over his arm. She leaned against the stone wall, letting the chair and the building support her. “Anas seemed to be in good spirits when he came out. I hope that means everything went well.” "I'd assume so. He looked better than when he went in, at least.” “Good,” she sighed. “I admit, I am glad Anas came with you. I am not sure I could have handled much more of Niquisse’s fear. It’s part of why I was glad to go get the food.” "Anas was really worried about her," he said. "I've never seen him use his powers within Stormwind.” Her eyes went wide. “He used his powers?” He nodded. "He doesn't do it very often.” “To stop Eliân?” She seemed surprised. "Yes." Mehe peered at her solemnly. “He really cares about Niquisse, doesn’t he?” "He does." He smiled. "He thinks of her as a little sister." “She called him her brother. I’d never heard her say that before. But when she was crying, she kept saying she wanted her brother. It took us a little while to realize who she meant.” "Hmm. Seems it was mutual then." He glanced up as the server arrived with a tray laden with food. She set it down before looking expectantly at Mehe. The Ren'dorei man fished out a few silver and copper coins, handing it to her. "Thank you." Turning back, he pushed the cup of tea and the plate of muffins towards Tindo. "Help yourself.” Tindo picked up the tea cup and breathed in the aroma. She closed her eyes as she took a sip. “Hmmmmm,” was the only thing heard as she wrapped both hands around the beverage. Mehe watched her reaction without comment. "How long has it been since you last ate?" he asked instead. “I have no idea,” she answered sleepily. “I haven’t even thought about it.” "Hmm. Well, eat up." He waved at the muffins. She chuckled a little. “You’re not going to let up, are you?” She selected what appeared to be a berry muffin and broke off a piece, popping it into her mouth. "Not until you get some food in you." He glanced around at the other patrons, scanning them carefully. "What are you looking for?" she asked before taking another bite. “I like being aware of my surroundings," he said evenly. "You do it all the time. Almost like you are expecting something to happen." She took a few more bites of the muffin. She picked up another and tore off a piece. He shrugged. "Can't hurt to be prepared." "Hmmm." She picked up her tea and took another long sip. "How's the tea?" he asked. “It’s quite good. Would you like to try it?” She held the cup out to him with a smile. He shook his head. "All for you," he said. He tried to raise his hand, only to blink at the tendrils curling over his arm. He loosened them before flicking one of them over his shoulder. Tindomiel laughed for the first time in days. She bit down on it and flushed. “I’m sorry, that was rude of me.” Mehe peered at her askance. "What's so funny?" “I’m sorry. The look on your face when you were tangled up… forgive me, Mehe. It seems that I am incapable of maintaining some decorum.” She stifled a giggle before taking another sip. "Hmm." He glanced at the food in the paper bags. "Can you carry all that back?" “Only one way to figure it out,” she shrugged. "I'll help you if you like," he offered. “That is very nice of you. Thank you.” She sat up and pushed her chair back. Taking a final sip of tea, she stood slowly. "Ready to go back?" He stood as well. “I have to. I have a whole infirmary suite full of people to look after.” She took a deep breath before gathering up several of the bags. Mehe helped gather the rest. He carefully picked up a few with his tendrils as well. "Let's go." Looking over, she tried unsuccessfully not to giggle. “You are making me think I need some of those.... oh… wait.” She closed her eyes for a moment and four thin tendrils sprouted from the backs of her shoulders. She  let them reach out and each take a bag. He offered her a small smile. "Convenient." “Hey, I can adapt.” She chuckled a little. “Thank you, Mehe.” "You're welcome." He nodded towards the path. "Shall we?" “Yes.” She started along. “Mehe, can we talk about Sutrakarre?” Keeping pace with her, he arched an eyebrow. "What about that malanore?” “I know he stepped in at a bad moment. But I can tell you that that man cares about one thing. Helping people. Everyone he can. If he stepped in, it’s because he thought something worse was going to happen.” She tried to keep her tone gentle and reassuring. "Hmm." Mehe pursed his lips. "He's bloody deluded though." “He’s actually a good counselor and someone I trust to care for my family. He misread you in the heat of the moment. But he also made sure that no one was hurt.” She offered her words carefully, trying to keep things calm. Mehe's eyes flashed. "By letting that woman throw a dagger at Anas and get away with it?" “Were either of you hurt?” "She could've hurt him. Wasn't that the point of her little demonstration?" “Yes. And she was showing you that she was choosing not to. And Sutrakarre knows her well enough to know that she wouldn’t.” She sighed. “You and Eliân were at the point of pushing each other to a bad place. He stopped it. He kept everyone safe.” "Hmm." Noticing a passing rabbit, he stepped carefully out of its path. She smiled at the movement, noting his kindness that showed in little ways. “I am just saying, please do not judge him poorly for a difficult situation.” "Look, Tindo. He can do or say whatever the hell he wants. I really don't care as long as Anas comes to no harm," he said. One of his tendrils carefully adjusted its hold on the paper bag in its grasp. “Fair enough. I just don’t want there to be bad feelings in the future.” He shrugged, glancing around idly. "I won't unless he does something that warrants it. Though I'm surprised he lasted this long in the Army of the Light with his damn 'trust people you've never met before' shtick. Bloody hell, I'm surprised he's even alive at all." “Sometimes, my friend, it is the right choice,” she encouraged lightly. He threw her an incredulous look. "It makes no sense." She chuckled. “You’re right. But that doesn’t make it any less true. Sometimes we find friends in unexpected places.” She frowned as they reached the tunnel, her bare feet finding stone again. "Something bothering you?" he asked, noticing her frown. “Setting foot on the stones means leaving the grass. That probably sounds silly.” She shook her head. The motion made her stumble and she reached out to grab the wall. In a smooth motion, Mehe's tendril dropped the paper bag atop the rest in his arms before whipping out, latching onto her arm. “I’m all right...I’m all right.” She closed her eyes and stopped. “Shaking my head made me a little dizzy. I’m ok now. Thank you.” "You need to get some rest," he said, his brow furrowing. "I will, as soon as we are safe at the fortress. Tomorrow, mostly likely." He nodded though his expression remained unconvinced. “I can’t right now. Not until my niece has been moved and the family is secure.” She looked at him. “Would you do any less for Anas?” "I'd be of no use exhausted and unable to defend him," he pointed out. At that, she seemed to crumble a bit. “I don’t… it feels wrong. It’s not right, that I should rest when others need me.” "Think of it this way. If you push yourself too hard, you'll collapse. Then they'll have to look after you as well as your niece," he said seriously. "It's better for you and them if you take care of yourself." “I will consider it.” She straightened herself and gestured to continue. “It won’t be much longer before we all leave.” He nodded, his tendril releasing her arm. The sinuous limb retrieved the paper bag it had been holding before he continued on towards the Cathedral. She moved beside him, sighing. “You are a good man, Mehe. Even if you don’t let people see it all the time.” "Hmm," came the reply. “Why are you so indifferent to that?” "Good, bad. It's all relative." He shrugged. “I suppose it is.” She smiled slightly. “What do you consider Anas to be?” "Oh, definitely a good man," he said with a smile. "And why do you consider him a good man, but not yourself?" "I'm not him," he said simply. "No. You aren't. But do you think Anas is a bad judge of character?" she asked softly, prodding a little without pushing too hard. "He trusts very easily. Sometimes to his detriment." “I would say that we are all guilty of that. But it doesn’t change our nature.” "Perhaps," he allowed. "Which is why I'm there to watch his back." “So if you are there, to protect a good man, does it not follow that you are also a good man?” He chuckled. "Perhaps," he repeated noncommittally. "It doesn't matter how anyone chooses to see me." “You are a curious one, Mehe. But I like you.” He raised an eyebrow at that but made no comment. Walking slowly, the tendrils sprouting from her back twisted around. Their length seemed to shift several times, almost imperceptible at first. “I am very sorry you got dragged into this mess, Mehe. Here I thought things were peaceful and I could simply make a friend.” "It's not your fault," he said, watching her tendrils. As they left the tunnel and entered the Cathedral district, one of the tendrils started to flicker out, the bag slipping from its grip. She managed to catch it with her arm with a heavy sigh. “Well, I had enough energy to do that for a little while.” "Try not to strain yourself too much," he said, concern in his pale blue eyes. “We are almost there. I will find a place to sit for a while. I know Niquisse was curled up in a corner for a while. Maybe I can do the same.”  She tipped her head to the side. “Mehe? Don’t worry too much. I’ll be all right.” He nodded again before glancing up at the Cathedral. "I'd help you carry these inside, but I don't think your family would appreciate it.” “Unfortunately, not right now. But if we can figure out a way to smooth things out, I would love it.” She adjusted the bags she had into one arm and reached out for the rest. He held them out to her one at a time. "Can you manage?" She offered him a gentle smile. “I think so.” She arranged them as best she could, until everything was settled. “Thank you, Mehe. For all of your help today. And for trying to look after our Niquisse.” He nodded. "I'll take my leave. Shorel'aran, Tindo. Be safe." She inclined her head to him. “Elune be with you, Mehe. Please give Anas my love.” She took a breath before beginning to climb the long steps to the Cathedral door. He watched her for a moment before turning and heading back towards the Mage Quarter.

The Other Side

A Collaboration with @thebiganvil who’s delightfully sharp character, Sellanii, is helping create the tension to this storyline.

Find the Full Storyline here: Iasea Storyline

The Embassy was busier than usual. Evening was beginning to fall and the lanterns were being lit. Iasea watched the comings and goings of the people, taking note of every person that moved through the area. Most notably, the targets of her rage. She watched as yet another head of silver hair entered area with a sneer.

“Iasea Moonwhisper,” her name was spoken almost as a command.  Iasea’s vibrant pink hair swirled around as she jerked her head to see who was speaking. She was met with the slight smirk of Sellanii Longleaf. “Did I startle you?”

Turning her gaze back to the field, Iasea shrugged. “A little. Lost in my own thoughts.”

Sellanii nodded. “ I am gratified to see that you survived the fall of our city, young one.” The younger elf grunted in response. Sellanii arched a long green eyebrow at her.

“If there was nothing left to me before, there is even less now,” she responded sullenly.

“I suppose that depends on your point of view, child.”

Iasea turned herself towards the older woman. “What point of view is there,” she spat out. Her hand came up and tugged on the ill-fitting dress she wore. “This isn’t even mine!”

Sellanii sighed. “All of us are the the same boat now, young one. In times such as this, a wise woman sees not only sorrow, but opportunity.”

“Oh, opportunity I see, yes.” Her face twisted into a wicked grin. “The Silverthorns are coming out of hiding.” She pointed at the small building across from them.

“Ah yes, your special project.”

“Project…interesting choice of words.”

Sellanii shrugged. “Should I have said ‘obsession’?”

The younger chuckled bitterly.  “Focus, plan, whatever. The word matters less than my completion of it.”

“Hm…well, that’s as may be, young one. But the Silverthorns will have to wait.”

Iasea scowled. “Says who?”

Sellanii narrowed her eyes. “Says the one who can help you restore your House. The one who can grant your House its former status. The one who will support your ‘project’, provided it comes in due time.”

Iasea’s eyebrows shot up. “You would help me kill every last one of them?”

“I don’t plan on wading in and spilling their blood, if that is what you mean.” She reached up and pushed her green hair back from her eyes and settled down next to the other woman.

“Then what? Because that is what I plan to bring about,” came the confused response.

Sellanii sighed, her eyes closing for a moment. “I will help you realize your goal, by providing what you need  more than anything else.”

“And what is that?”

“A respectable cover,” she stated plainly. Iasea sat back, her mind racing through what that would do for her. “There is, of course, a price.”

Iasea barked out a laugh. “Of course there is. There always is.”

Grunting, the druid continued. “The price is that you wait.”

The younger woman blinked, surprised. “What?” She couldn’t muster any more than the one word. How could she even consider asking me such a thing?

Sellanii turned her gaze to the refugees huddled around the campfires. Her voice held a tinge of grief, though she did her best to keep her tone even. “Our people need time to recover, Iasea. And just as important, their enemies need to be crushed.”

“All the more reason to take out the pale ones now.”

A sharp look cut her off.  Narrowing her eyes, Sellanii glared at the her. “No. For starters, let us make one thing very clear; you cannot accomplish this alone. If you try, they will find you and kill you. You will end up like your mother. Do you know what happened to her?”

“I was told she was murdered,” she replied. “The guards wont tell me more. They simply get a strange look that washes over their faces and they leave.”

“I know someone who can tell you more. I will have her pay you a visit. Her name is Nuelæth, a Sentinel Captain of some repute.”

Nodding, “I have heard the name.”

“She’ll talk to you. It will give you pause, believe me.”

“These ‘people’ killed everyone in my House but me. What could possibly give me pause now?” She sneered, growing ever more frustrated.

“Just wait, you’ll see.” Iasea shrugged. Sellanii’s eyes narrowed at the younger woman. “You are going to need to learn to show respect, child,” she growled. Iasea sighed heavily, bowing her head. The green haired woman nodded. “The Silverthorns stole your life. And their irritating ‘Patriarch’ ruined my plans. For this, they will pay.” She took a breath, sighing suddenly. “But not yet. Whatever else you might say about him. Forosuul SIlverthorn is an implacable and vicious enemy of the Horde.”

“That man is an enemy to nearly everyone, so far as I can tell,” she muttered. The ancient woman chuckled at her. “The reports I have show he will even pick fights with our allies.”

“The point, my dear child, is that he is a great weapon against those who did this,” she gestures to the fields, “to our people. Until the Horde is shattered, I will not have him removed, or even distracted.”

“And if we don’t succeed in that? Will I never know my revenge?”

“If we don’t succeed, your revenge will be pointless. You need support. And you need something else.”

Iasea nodded. “Money.”

“No.” Sellanii snapped. “Life after vengeance.”

“No…” she argued. “I definitely need money.”

Sellanii chuckled. “Money is no issue.”

“Good. Because I am not spending the war in this,” she tugged on the dress again. “I need equipment, weapons.”

“I will send you to someone who can craft them for you.”

“Thank you, Matriarch,” she inclined her head.

Sellanii smiled faintly. “Thank you, Martiarch. We shall go to the Council in Exile next week and make your client status official.”

Iasea sighed heavily. “I will make arrangements to parlay with the Silverthorns.”

“You will tell them the matter is dropped. And you make them believe you,” Sellanii commanded.

The look on the pink haired woman was one of incredulity. “Dropped?!”

“I did not say you had to drop it,” she rolled her eyes. “I said you had to make them believe you.”

Iasea sighed, relieved. “Trust me. My sister never quite got the hang of the fake tears. I however, did.”

“Of that, I have no doubt. I knew your  mother, child.” 

“I am not her,” she stated matter-of-factly. She turned her pink face to the sky, looking up at the stars.

“That is good to hear. She was an idiot,” Sellanii grinned, all her teeth showing. “Oh. One other thing.”

“Hmmm?” Iasea returned her attention to her benefactor.

“As a gesture,” she explained, “you will give the Silverthorns the names of the men you used to assault their young lady.

“What?” Her eyes were wide, disbelieving.

“I believe you heard me.”

“They will kill them. I will lose the use of good men.”

Sellanii laughed at her. “They are not good men. Otherwise they would not have failed. Give them up. Claim they exceeded your instructions. Wash your hands of them. Make your sister believe it and she will convince the others.”

“I will do what I can,” she nodded.

“You will do what I say,” the woman replied. “No excuses, Iasea.”

“May I ask you something? What do you get out of all this?”

The grin on the older woman’s face held a cruel edge to it. Her eyes shone. “I get my revenge on them for ruining my plans. And moreover, I remove one of the last things supporting Tyrande. After her actions in Darkshore, she lost a lot of support. When the House of Silverthorn falls, she will follow.”

Next Chapter: Calling a Truce

To Safety

The next chapter of the Iasea Storyline. 

The room had been cleared of all furniture, save a small cot. Kalimè watched quietly as the family gathered about her. Ælithil knelt beside her, grasping her hand firmly while Estelæth held the other. “An’da knows what he is doing Nésa. It will be all right.” He did his best to sound reassuring in the face of her fears. She nodded slowly, her swollen face unreadable. “It’s different than a portal. And An’da has us stable, remember?”

“I remember,” she answered softly, not entirely convinced. Her pale face turned its gaze to the window, watching the evening light. “Este? Is there water?” Anything to keep her mind from the teleport. If it were even possible. The ancient woman at her side reached down and retrieved a wine skin. 

“Here, little one.” Estelæth brought the open end to Kali's lips as Æl helped his twin sit up slightly. “Not too much at once,” Este reminded her as she tipped it. Kali nodded and took a mouthful, whimpering at the struggle to do something so very basic. After another, Æl lowered her back down, concern filling his face.

From across the room, Tindomiel’s not-so-quiet snores could be heard. Having finally lost the battle to remain awake, she was curled up in the corner, a blanket folded and tucked behind her head. Niquisse gaped at her, somewhat surprised by the depth and volume of the sound. Silannah laughed aloud, causing Niqi to jump. “She can snore louder than that, child,” Sil joked. “She’s not fully asleep or you'd really hear something.” Niqi gave Sil an incredulous look, to which Sil shrugged. “Trust me, I listened to it many times. This is nothing.”

Leaned against the doorframe, Eli picked at her nails with the tip of her dagger. Her eyes moved from the preparations in the room, out into the walkway and back again. Despite the casual position, she was very much on alert. “How much longer,” she questioned. This is taking entirely too long, she thought, but kept it to herself. 

“Ask the question again, Bandu, and the answer will come in a much more painful manner than words.” Kalithil's eyes flared at her. “It takes preparation and concentration. We are moving everyone to another planet, not the next room,” he barked. Eli quietly moved herself out of the room. Returning his attention to Gilræn, they finished their discussion on the mechanics of the spell. “Remember, balance the flow through Lily. Do not attempt to fight it. Trust me, her raw power is...uncomfortable if you pull too hard.”

The Ren’dorei man inclined his head towards his father. “I will attempt to simply focus it. Alert me if the rotation feels off. I’ve not done this in some time.” He turned to gather his things.

Niqi, seeing this, did the same. She moved quietly into position next to Ælithil. Placing her small hand on Kali's shoulder, she offered a gentle smile. “It'll be all right. Æl's not going to let anything happen to his sister." Kali smiled faintly. 

Kalithil turned to the large Draenei man standing off to the side. He offered a curt nod and the Sutrakarre crossed to the cot. His large white hand came down very gently over Kalime’s eyes as a golden glow suffused his fingers. “Buros,” he commanded quietly. The girl’s body relaxed immediately and her breathing became steady and deep. “She is ready.” He lifted his hand away, revealing a peaceful expression on Kali’s damaged face. He stepped out of the way and looked toward Tindomiel’s sleeping form. “You want for me to do the same?” Forosuul sighed heavily, but nodded his assent. The large man repeated the process and carried the sleeping Priestess over to the center of the room. He gently laid her beside Kalimè and moved back to the side. 

Lilybeth closed her eyes a moment and took a slow breath. She brought her hands out, her fingers outstretched as a series of runes began to appear on the floor around them. The others watched with rapt attention as Kalithil and Gilræn began to move in concert. The air crackled as their hands glowed with violet energy. 

Gilræn took in a sharp breath suddenly, causing Lily to snap her head to him. His eyes were wide, his face lit by the vibrant arcane power wrapping up his arms. “Slow it down! You’re getting too much. You have to control it, Gilræn. She cannot,” Kalithil guided him. “Concentrate on the spell, taking only what you must. Counter turn the fourth position.” Gilræn nodded and focused his attention more throughly.

Circles began to appear under each of them, rotating runes moving it opposing directions, filling the room with brilliant violet light. Kalithil spoke a word, archaic to most and Gilræn echoed with another. Together they spoke the final three and with a flash, the room was empty save a few bits of dust and papers that slowly drifted down to the floor.

A hour later, everyone had been assigned a room, or a cottage to sleep in. Kalimè and Estelæth taking the small cottage nearest the pond allowed for Kali to be moved and walked easily without steps. The others were placed as was best for their situations. 

After checking that her daughter slept, Lily lowered herself quietly on the edge of the pond and draped her feet into the water. Moments later, Gilræn settled nearby, studying her quietly. “You can ask, if you want to,” she offered. “I saw the look on your face. You want to know why. Or how, either way. Maybe both?” 

The Ren’dorei man stared at her, bemused. “I have been referred to as overly loquacious, but I think perhaps you surpass me.”

Lily pushed her hair back behind her shoulder and chuckled. “That wasn’t much of anything, really. Just ask your An’da some time.”

“I have been informed. No need,” he waved it off. “But you are correct. I did want to ask why you were not the one to cast the teleport. It would have been effortless for one with such a depth of raw power.”

“Do you fancy the idea of being dropped into the Maelstrom? Or perhaps on the Blue Child?” Gilræn laughed, but stopped as he realized she wasn’t joking. Her face was, in fact, quite serious. “While the power is there, and the knowledge is there, I simply lack the finesse for something like that. Minor things, research, are my specialty. But when I attempt something with that enormity, that much minute detail of crafting to the spell, it goes awry. Every time. For something so important, it is better if I lend the power to those who can weave the spells properly.”

“Why does my father not teach you?”

Lily laughed brightly. “Such a simple question. With a short answer. He has tried. Elune bless him, he has. But some people have the gift to do it, and others do not. The beautiful thing is, together, we do make quite the combination.”

Gilræn nodded and looked around. An unusual choice, this place. For the man who demanded solitude, he seems to have surrounded himself with activity. His face must have betrayed him, as a silent laugh could be seen behind the woman’s eyes.

“He’s changed, Gilræn. He still has his Sanctum, well, three that I know of. But he tolerates a lot for my sake. And our children. Your siblings were born just over there.” She indicated a deeper area of the pond, glowing lilies adrift in its waters. “This place is special to him now, as it is for me. And from here, our House can gather strength and maintain safety, while we plan how to care for our own.”

The older man inclined his head to her. “I hope you are correct. If it is so, it is a pleasant change for all of us.” He rose and bowed. “I will let you rest. I imagine that took quite a lot out of you.”

“Not at all. But I thank you for the thought. I am going to stay here and read for a bit. Then check on my daughter before dinner. There should be plenty to eat at the inn near the fountain, if you are hungry.” She smiled at him gently. He studied her for a moment before nodding. Turning quietly, he moved away in search of Silannah and a cup of coffee. 

Lily watched him leave before looking back towards the cottage. You are safe here, my little dancer. We all are, her thoughts wandered as she turned her attention to the leaves gently swaying above the water. We all are.