Meheanas are all wrapped up in love 🥰

Decided to redraw/update this, just to see how far I've come since. Which do you prefer?

2018 2021

Slip Into The Dark

Anas kissed the top of her head, smiling down at her as he always did. His mate, Mehe, squeezed her hand and moved to take Anas’s instead. They said their goodbyes and stepped out the door, Mehe’s long tendril flipping the sign of their shop to closed before latching it with a soft click. 

Gathering up the sketchbooks, she placed them out neatly in the counter for the next day. Out of the corner of her eye, she spied a bit of red fabric, neatly folded at the far end of the room. On top lay a piece of paper, a note in Anas’s handwriting. A request to design a dress to match the embroidery design on the end of it. 

She set the note aside and unfolded the delicate sash. The ends were woven and stitched in an undulating pattern, deep blue and purples that drew in the eye. Niqi studied it, thinking she might likely be helping him replicate it, when it seemed to her the curls and waves began to move. The more she watched, the more hypnotic it became. 

In her mind, she saw Anas and Mehe, smiling at her, but the expression was wrong somehow. There was a sinister edge to it that she had not known from her two chosen brothers. The slender Kal’dorei began to laugh, but her mind warped it. His mirth was directed at her, a darkness that was not present in him in the past. Mehe’s hand reached out as though to grab at her. 

You can keep trying to make them happy, but they will betray you. Hurt you. Stop wasting your energy on the ones who don’t care. The whispers twisted in her mind, warping everything she tried to focus on. Her tendrils writhed across her shoulders. She sank to the floor, tears rolling down her cheeks. 

She squeezed her eyes shut, murmuring the mantra.  “The Shade speaks the lies we tell ourselves. The Shade speaks the lies we tell ourselves...” over and over. She took deep breaths, hoping to calm herself, but each breath brought and even deeper level of terror. “The Shade speaks the lies we tell ourselves. It can be quieted through careful diligence and focus.” She kept at it, rocking in place on the floor of the work area. 

“Tiny?” Heavy footsteps moved to her side. She looked up to see her husband, his lip curled up in a sneer. Large hands grasped her shoulders and she cried out. Her eyes rolled back, her whole body going limp. 

“Niqi! What’s wrong?” Ælithil gathered his tiny wife up into his arms and left the shop, kicking the door closed. Her constantly evolving wardrobe caused the sash that wrapped her waist to go completely unnoticed. Along her pale skin, hidden beneath her dress, flowing curls of darkness began to creep. They danced and flickered, the color shifting from the deeper black of night, to vibrant, rapturous purples creating a design that perfectly matched one she had seen just a little while earlier. 

Ælithil pulled them up onto his saber and held her close. “Come on, Tiny. Stay with me.” He took to the air, heading for help. 

   Meheaaris is a very stubborn, determined man. As he Sin’dorei with no magic, he found himself working as a ranger among the Farstriders. He is exceptionally skilled with bow and dagger. Wanting to rid himself of his addiction to the fel, he made a deal which would cost him more than he realized. The ethereals offered him an exchange. They would remove the addiction to fel in return for all of his memories of his family. At the time, he thought it was the best choice. What they did was replace his need with that of the Shadows.

    He was given some training on how to work with it and sent on his way. Left now with no memory of where he was from or what his true name was, he soon found himself yearning to get those memories back. His determined nature would push him to make decisions that led him to Master Umbric and his followers. Enticed by promises that they could find those memories in the Void, he went with them. Instead he became the focus of Umbric’s experiments and when the incident on Telogrus Rift occurred, Meheaaris was forever changed.

       He is now finding a new life with the help of his beloved and the very small number of people he trusts. Mehe finds comfort and solace in the small garden he is cultivating behind the cottage he and his mate live in in Elwynn Forest. The search for his past continues.

    Tumblr Timeline of Meheaaris and his mate, Reianas Starmane: http://devsash.tumblr.com/post/175740672650/meheanas-timeline-here-are-all-the-stories-of

   And this concludes the uploads of the Christmas presents this time around :). I hope you have enjoyed Meheaaris and the rest of the uploads! I had a lot of fun working on the lot. 

    Devsash’s art can also be found here: https://www.deviantart.com/devsash

59. “Please don’t be mad at me.”

Niqi had come into the shop to find the previous night’s storm had blown a large branch from the tree outside through their window. She spoke to the landlord about getting it repaired and had started cleaning up the space. There was broken glass and splinters of wood everywhere. She grabbed the broom and set to work.

It went faster than she had expected. The floors were clear and she had gathered all the debris on a large piece of cloth. She brushed the chair off onto it as well and found that Anas’s desk was quite luckily clear of any mess. Hers on the other hand, was not.

The gown she had been embroidering was full of bits of everything. She picked it up and swept it to the side, intending to shake it out over the cloth. As the skirt swirled through the air, it caught the edge of the display that bore a number of Mehe’s pressed blooms. The hem wrapped around one of the carved frames and before she could stop it, pulled it from the hook.

Her eyes went wide as everything seemed to move in slow motion. Stretching a hand towards it, she tried with all she had to grab it. Her fingertips grazed over it, causing it to spin slightly, moving further from her grasp. It turned a few times in the air before colliding with the corner of her worktable, shattering with a crash. It clattered to the floor, and finally ceased its movement.

Niqi sank down to the floor and crawled over to it. The frame was intact, but the rest… She grabbed at the glass, trying to lift the flower free, ripping one of the sides nearly off. She let out a cry of anguish as she tried to piece it back together, causing further damage.

Outside, the two men arrived to find the window busted out. They rushed in, eyes wide to find the Ren’dorei girl sitting on the floor. She was sweaty and dirty from cleaning and the shop looked to be mostly ready to go. Anas sighed, relieved until she looked up at them. “Please don’t be mad at me,” Niqi begged him, holding the broken shards in her hands. She held them out to Mehe, tears streaming down her cheeks, her tiny hands covered in nicks and cuts. In the very center lay a torn and tattered rose that had previously been pressed with love and care.

“I w-was trying t-to clean up and I b-broke it,” she sobbed.

He crouched down and took her wrists in his hands. Moving her hands over the pile, he tipped the mess out. He took a cloth from his pocket and carefully swept the remaining shards from her hands. He gathered her up and carried her to the sofa. “It’s just a flower, Little Bird. I can make another.” His tendrils wiped the tears from her cheeks and wrapped about her shoulders.

Anas joined them, taking her fingers gently in his own. His eyes shifted to a deep purple as he extended the shadows into her hands, healing the cuts and scrapes. He brought his forehead to hers as she whimpered at the pain caused by the magic, kissing the end of her nose. “I’m sorry, Little One. Are you okay?” His eyes returned to their familiar silver, the shadows retreating from his fingers.

Niqi nodded. “Mehe? I’m so sorry.”

He waved it off. “It’s nothing, Niqi. You can help me find a new flower to take its place,” he offered, a reassuring smile playing at the corners of his lips.

“I would like that,” she sighed, her tendrils relaxing. “Thank you.” She leaned against Anas and looked over the shop. “What a mess…”

The two men chuckled. Without much further discussion, the trio stood and finished prepping the shop to open for the day. “At least it isn’t raining today,” Anas offered. They shared a giggle at that and Mehe flipped the sign on the door to “Open” before heading to the back to make them all some tea.

**Thank you for the ask! I hope you enjoy it. Anas and Mehe belong to @devsash and are included with love**

Mehe dances with Anas at their wedding.

Together Forever

在天愿作比翼鸟,在地愿为连理枝。

In the heavens we shall be birds flying side by side, and on the earth we shall be twined trunks of flowering sprigs on the same branch.

Void Bolt Ch 7

Another chapter collaboration with @devsash and @thebiganvil.

Chapter 6

~Larson’s Clothiers~ Wynne swept the last of the scraps up and tossed them into the waste bin. She threw an irritated glance at the two empty work stations. Returning to the counter, she pulled out the order book and started to review the next day’s tasks. Mehe stepped into the shop, looking around. He nodded at Wynne. "Anas is still recovering," he said. "He'll be back once he's better." She looked up at him, with only the smallest shred of sympathy. “Fine. At least I know where the fel he is. Unlike the other one.” She closed the book over-dramatically. “Never should have hired that little flake. She didn’t even bother showing up today.” Mehe's lips thinned. "She's ill," he said simply. "I'm here to inform her fiancé. Have you seen him?" Wynne scowled. “No. He picks her up at the end of the day. Tell her I expect her back tomorrow. Can’t have both of them out. If he’s recovering, she has to be here.” She scooped up a gown and placed it on Niqi’s table. Mehe's eyes narrowed. "She's in no condition to work." From the doorway came a troubled voice, “She’s what? What are you talking about?” Mehe glanced around at the voice. Seeing the Kaldorei man, he nodded in acknowledgement. "Ælithil, I presume. Niqi is ill. Anas and I are looking after her at our place in Elwynn." “Ill? What the fel does that mean? She was fine two days ago.” "There's been an incident." Mehe's eyes flickered towards Wynne. "I'll explain on the way." Ælithil eyed the Ren’dorei for a moment, noting the subtle glance towards the shopkeeper. Looking at the sour-faced woman himself, he said, “Yeah, let’s do that.” Wynne snorted. “Probably scared herself looking at a wall.” Mehe glared at her, his gloved fingers twitching. "This way," he said to the other man. He stalked out of the shop in the direction of the Trade District without a backward glance. Ælithil stared impassively at Wynne just long enough to make her uncomfortable, then turned and followed the Ren’dorei. Mehe paused at the arch exiting the Mage Quarter, waiting for Ælithil to catch up. "Bloody woman," he muttered under his breath. “Agreed. Niqi told me I can’t kill her though.” "So did Anas." He shook his head and started walking again. "Niqi was in Stormwind yesterday. She was looking at a few places for them to set up shop when she was accosted by a damn human." Ælithil froze. “...accosted?” Mehe nodded grimly. "She managed to escape and called Anas for help. I came here and took her back. She's very badly shaken by the ordeal." Suddenly frantic, Ælithil seized the smaller man by the shoulders and cried out, “Where is she? Take me to her!” Mehe hissed, his eyes flaring purple as his Gloomblade dropped into his hand by reflex. Startled, Ælithil drew back, looking confused. The Ren'dorei took a deep breath before dismissing the shadowy dagger. "Don't do that," he growled, his eyes returning to their pale blue as the weapon melted away. "Bloody hell. Are you trying to make me hurt you?" “Uh...sorry. Look, just take me to her, ok?” Mehe nodded. He raised his taloned finger, drawing it down in a quick vertical slash. A dark line followed in its wake before opening into a Void rift. "This way," he said before stepping through. Ælithil eyed the gaping violet aperture uncomfortably for a moment before taking a deep breath and stepping in. Mehe emerged from the rift before the door of the cottage. Glancing around, he spotted Goldeneyes standing near the garden, a bowl of food in his hand. He was chewing absently as he eyed the herbs, apparently lost in thought. "Enjoying a late lunch?" Mehe asked. The Sin'dorei man looked up, his gaze darting to the portal behind Mehe. His expression darkened. "More Greythorns?" Ælithil emerged from the rift and let out an obviously-held breath with a loud whoosh. Shivering slightly at the touch of the Void, he looked around the garden, his eyes resting on the blood elf stuffing his face. The face identical in all ways but color to his Ren’dorei guide. “What in the fel fucked bullshit is this,” he breathed. Goldeneyes stared at him in shock. "What the hell?" "Ælithil, this is Goldeneyes. He's me... from another world." Mehe waved a hand, closing the portal. "Goldeneyes, Ælithil Silverthorn, Niqi's fiance." The Sin'dorei's lip curled in disgust. "Silverthorn? Is that what you're bloody calling yourself now?" He set the bowl on the windowsill before planting himself in front of the door. "No. He's not going in there with Anas." Ælithil looked in confusion between the two near-identical men. "Wha...other world? What?" Mehe sighed. "Another world like ours but different. Like Draenor and Outland." He turned to the Sin'dorei. "Now let us in so that he can see to Niqi." Goldeneyes scoffed at the Kaldorei. "You may have deceived these people with your dark arts, but I'd know that face anywhere." He folded his arms, glaring at the taller man. "No way in hell am I ever allowing you in the same house as my mate, Greythorn." Frowning, Ælithil muttered, "But the Greythorns are decendents of my brother..." "Do you think I'm a bloody fool?" Goldeneyes snapped. "Drop the act, Greythorn. Everyone knows who you are." "He's not a Greythorn," Mehe said firmly. "The Silverthorns are a Kaldorei family." Niqi cried out in her sleep, "NO!" The sound broke Ælithil from his confusion and he rushed forward, heedless of the blood elf blocking the doorway. The Sin'dorei's hand rose, steel glinting in the sunlight. Mehe leaped at him, his own dagger dropping into his hand out of thin air. He blocked Goldeneyes's stab, their blades meeting with a clash. Unconcerned with the infighting, Ælithil bowled both men over as he tried to reach his beloved within. Mehe fell atop Goldeneyes with a grunt, his Gloomblade vanishing. The impact knocked the dagger from the Sin'dorei's hand as well, sending it clattering some distance away on the floor. Goldeneyes tried to shove Mehe off, forcing the Ren'dorei to grapple the older man to a standstill. "Let go, damn you!" the Sin'dorei spat, his eyes blazing as he tried in vain to twist free. "You don't know what he's capable of!" "Do you think I'd bloody spare him if he tried to hurt my mate?" Mehe demanded coldly. "He's here for Niqi and nothing more. Now stop this." He released Goldeneyes and stood, grimacing at the pain in his shoulder where Ælithil had knocked him over. The Sin'dorei rose as well. He straightened his shirt, his lips compressed in anger. "If anything happens to Anas, it's on you," he snapped before storming back to the garden. The noises from the outer rooms sent Niqi into a full panic. She fought her way out of the blankets, falling from the bed. Her eyes flared purple as she scrambled into the corner of the room. Making every effort to pull herself into as tight of a ball as possible, she covered her ears with her arms. "Oh gods...he found me...he's here...please..." "Niqi!" Ælithil bellowed. Not knowing the layout of the home, be barged around the central table and started to open doors. "Æl?" she choked out, shaking uncontrollably in the corner of the room. The whispers roared in her ears, drowning out much around her. Ælithil burst through the bedroom door. Seeing her curled in on herself in the corner, he immediately went to her side and knelt, holding out his arms to her. Anas started awake from the din. "Mother Moon. What's happening?" he mumbled, looking around blearily. “Oh gods, Æl!” She buried herself in his chest, weeping. Anas sat up at once, his gaze snapping towards the pair. Pushing the blanket away, he rose a little unsteadily. "What happened?" he repeated, his brow furrowing as he stepped closer. "What is it, little one?" Ælithil wrapped his arms tightly around his betrothed. Glancing over his shoulder, he gave the tall Kal'dorei a look that said in no uncertain terms, "I have this." Niqi shook in his arms, clinging to him. “Æl, Anas and Mehe...they’ve...they’ve helped,” she choked out. Anas halted at Ælithil's look. "It's okay, little one," he said kindly. "Ælithil wants to look after you, so I won't get in the way." He bowed towards the other Kal’dorei before sitting back onto the mattress, looking down at his hands. Ignoring the other man, Ælithil brushed the hair from Niqi's face and spoke softly to her. "What happened, Tiny?" She held onto him tightly. Taking a slow, deep breath, she quieted herself a little. "I was looking at...at one of the shop options that Anas and Mehe had found. I came down from the upper level and I walked straight into a man...he...he was um.." She swallowed hard, tears rolling down her cheeks. "He wouldn't let me leave....he..." her voice grew pained, pinched. "Tore my dress down and he...he" Ælithil's jaw clenched convulsively.  He took a few deep breaths, very obviously doing all he could to stay in control. In a low tone, he asked, "Did you know him? What did he look like?" Niqi shook her head, sobbing. "He was big...brown hair...he smelled like old beer." "Old town?" Mehe stepped silently into the room and went to Anas's side. Noticing the Kal’dorei's downcast eyes, he placed a hand on Anas's shoulder. "Back to bed," he murmured. "You need your rest too. Ælithil will look after her." "Along the Canals..." She turned to look over at the two men by the bed. "Mehe knows where. Anas and Mehe..." she sniffled, "They've been taking care of me." Looking back over his shoulder slightly shame-faced, the young Kal'dorei said softly, "Thank you. Both of you." "It's the least we could do for her." Anas's brief smile seemed forced. Mehe simply nodded curtly. He lightly pushed Anas down onto the bed and drew the blanket over the him. "Rest. I'll deal with this," he said gently before turning back to the duo. Niqi pulled away from Æl and crawled over to the bed. She knelt beside Anas and kissed his forehead, tears still rolling down her cheeks. “Thank you,” she whispered. “Rest. I can’t...can’t do this without my brother.” Anas brushed her tears away. "Don't cry, little one. You know I'm always here for you," he said soothingly. "I'll try, brother,” she said softly. “But you need to get better. Æl will take care of me so you can." She moved back to Ælithil and kissed him gently. Ælithil returned the kiss, then stood, looking uncomfortable. He looked at the two men, unsure of what to say. Niqi held tight to him. “Thank you for helping me feel safer. I am sorry if I caused extra trouble.” "You're never any trouble to us, Niqi," Anas said, stifling a yawn. "Let him rest." Mehe waved the pair to the door. "Come," he said before stepping out. “All right, Mehe,” She nudged Æl towards the door, glancing back at Anas, worried. “Wait, what about the attacker,” Ælithil asked. "We'll talk about it outside," Mehe said firmly. "Now come." Niqi released her death grip on Æl’s waist and took his hand, pulling him from the room. She led him to the table and sat down. Ælithil followed, but with obvious reluctance. Mehe closed the door behind them. "I went back to the place, but the human was gone," he said, turning to face Ælithil. Niqi pulled her knees up, her eyes going dull. “I hurt him. He’s going to find me...” she quavered. His brow furrowed, Ælithil asked, “We don’t know anything else?” Niqi shook her head. The pale Kal’dorei have Mehe a questioning look. "I didn't find anything when I returned there." The Ren'dorei frowned. "If anyone found him, they're skilled enough to cover his tracks." Ælithil heaved a great sigh and looked at the floor. For a quiet moment he said nothing, then simply muttered “damn it all” nearly too low to hear. Without preamble he stood upright and marched out the front door. Once in the open air he called out in a voice a whisper above his normal tones, “An’da, I need you.” Niqi slipped from the chair, following behind him, unsure what he was doing. As he said it, he looked around, tilting his head slightly as if listening for something. Mere seconds later, the air became electric and there was a violet flash and a whooshing sound. When the air cleared, two figures stood before the young Kal’dorei. Another Kal’dorei male, taller even than Ælithil, festooned from head to toe on blue and gold finery. He gleamed in evening light. Beside him, her hand resting on his arm, a Kal’dorei woman, round faced and pretty, with a cascade of ocean-blue hair and a dress to match. Mehe blinked at the new arrivals. "Who are these people?" “Kalithil and Lilybeth Silverthorn,” Niqi whispered. “Æl’s parents.” Her eyes were wide. The tall Kal’dorei glanced around, his eyes falling on each person before him in turn. When he looked at the ren’dorei, his gaze lingered a moment, his eyes shining behind his helm betraying mild curiosity.  He nodded at Niquisse and then turned his attention back to Ælithil. “My son, what is wrong?” Niqi offered the pair a deep curtsey. She forced a smile as much as she was able.  Lilybeth tipped her head to the side, noting Niqi’s odd attire. She moved to the small Ren’dorei, wrapped her arms around the girl and looked to her son. “Æl? What happened?” Grimacing, Ælithil replies, looking back and forth between his parents, “Niqi was attacked in Stormwind. By a human. I don’t think it has anything to do with whoever hurt Kali, but I’m not sure. This was different. Her...ummm,” here he hesitated, his jaw clenching and his face going red hot, “her dress was torn.” Niqi whimpered, turning a deep violet in embarrassment. “Elune above, did he...” Lily found herself unable to finish the question, hugging the girl tighter. “He tried, My Lady,” Niqi looked at the ground, mortified. Mehe watched them silently. He caught sight of movement out of the corner of his eye. Turning his head slightly, he glimpsed Goldeneyes glaring daggers at the group of people. The Sin'dorei said nothing as he retreated back out of sight. Ignoring this, Ælithil continued, “Niqi hit the bastard with something. She hurt him.” Pointing at Mehe, he said, “this one...uh, his name is Mehe, he rescued her. He went back and looked for the human. Says there was nothing there.” Lilybeth turned to face the Ren’dorei watching them. “Mehe? You did that for Niquisse? How can I repay your kindness?” She bowed her head to him in gratitude. Mehe shook his head. "I'd gladly help Anas's sister... and my friend." Kalithil, having watched the exchange silently, now spoke, “Lily, take Ælithil and Niquisse away from here. Have Tindomiel look at her, be sure she is unharmed.” His head swiveled until his gaze rested on Mehe again, and he said, “You will take me to the scene.” Lilybeth bowed her head to Mehe again. "Please give Anas my best. He has always been kind to me." Niqi stepped towards Mehe. "Thank you. I..I will get these clothes back to you once I have cleaned them. Could I get my bag? And...you can get rid of the dress. I don't think..." Mehe nodded at Kalithil and Lilybeth. "I will," he said before turning to Niquisse. "Where's your bag? And I'll get rid of it." Niqi winced. "In Goldeneyes's room..." Mehe nodded again. "I'll get it," he said before disappearing back inside. “No,” interjected Kalithil suddenly, “give the clothes she was wearing to me. I will dispose of them when they are no longer useful.” There was no audible response from within, though Mehe emerged a few minutes later with the dress and the bag. He handed the torn garment to Kalithil and the bag to Niqi. Niqi placed a hand gently on Mehe's arm. "Thank you for the past two days. Especially helping me through the night." Her eyes teared up and her lips pulled inward, forming a pinched frown. Lilybeth's hands began to glow softly as she raised them, runes appearing in sequence along the ground. A shimmering portal appeared before her and she motioned for the young ones to follow her through. "Come dear. Let's get you cleaned up and home." Mehe nodded, offering Niqi a small smile. Raising his taloned finger, he opened another Void rift before turning to Kalithil. "This way," he said simply. Lily led Niqi into the portal gently, calling for her son to follow. Kalithil looked at the ebon tear intently a moment before giving Mehe an appraising look. He whispered, “interesting...” as he stepped through the rift. Mehe followed him though, emerging right before the steps leading up to the door. "This is it." He waved his hand and the rift snapped shut. Kalithil stepped inside slowly, his head swiveling to take in the space. His brow furrowed as if he could will the events to reveal themselves to him through concentration alone. Calling back over his shoulder he asked, “And you found no traces?” "Nothing." Mehe glanced around. "Why?" Kalithil began to pace around the room. At regular intervals he bent down and traced a rune on the floor with his hand, each of which would glow with a soft blue light when complete. He spoke as he worked, saying, "No traces indicates a presence of mind and attention to detail one does not expect from a would-be rapist." Mehe's eyes narrowed at this display of the arcane, though his face remained otherwise impassive. He watched the mage work in silence. Kalithil glanced in Mehe’s direction and stood up, a curious expression on his face. “Why do you look at me like that,” he asked. "You're a mage," he said flatly. "A Kal’dorei mage." “Obviously. Why is that an issue?” He shook his head. "Just get on with it." Kalithil shrugged and returned to his preparations. He spiraled inwards, creating a concentric ring of lines and runes. Laying the torn dress in the center, he stepped back and surveyed his work. “This should do.” Mehe took a step back and turned to peer out of the window at the passersby. Muttering arcane words, Kalithil held a hand over the runic circle. The runes on the floor shone brighter at his words. Quietly he said to his companion, "You're going to want to watch this part." Mehe glanced back at the Kaldorei, pursing his lips. Nevertheless, he did as he was bid, keeping an eye on the proceedings. A flickering began in the space above the circle of runes. Kalithil, watching it with a furrowed brow, commented, "The world has a memory. But that memory fades. The greater the span between diviner and event, the greater the loss of detail. Here we have a rare opportunity, this happened not two days past, and naturally, the dress helps as well." As he finished speaking, a ghostly figure could be seen stumbling backwards within the circle. A Ren'dorei female, Niquisse, followed by a human male who seized her dress and leaned in, snarling unheard epithets. Kalithil watched impassively for a moment, then twitched a hand and the image froze. "I don't think we need to see more. I have fixed this face in my mind." Turning to Mehe, he asked, "Have you?" Mehe's eyes flickered over the human's features, noting his clothes and the expression on his face. He nodded briefly. "Very good. If you see him, inform us." "Hmm." Mehe turned away from Kalithil and the figures to scan the room. Whomever had concealed the human's tracks was good. Probably a professional. "Is that a problem?" Mehe arched an eyebrow. "Are you quite finished?" he asked mildly. "Seems to me your future daughter-in-law could use some support from you right now." "She has my son and my wife, she will be fine." "Good. Then we've nothing more to discuss."  He stepped past the mage, making for the door. "If you intend to go after this man on your own, I would advise against it." "I'll keep that in mind." Mehe opened the door. "Shorel'aran, mage," he said before stepping out. Kalithil, amused, called after him, “Your call, of course. Your service to my family will not be forgotten.” His only answer was the soft click of the door as it closed. Outside, Mehe shook his head in irritation as he disappeared through a Void rift back to the cottage.

The Gift

The cottage, Elwynn Forest

Mehe watched his mate's exhausted face as Anas slept in their bed. As soon as they arrived, he had drawn a bath for the Kaldorei man and cleaned all the blood and grime off of him. Anas was so tired, he spent most of it in a half-awake daze.

Goldeneyes had offered to help, but Mehe wanted to do this on his own. The Sin'dorei retreated instead to the guest room. Mehe had not seen him since.

He leaned over Anas's slumbering form, gently touching his forehead to his mate's. "I will protect you, dear one, he murmured. "Rest now."

You are too weak to keep him safe, the voices whispered.

His lips thinned. He straightened and stepped outside. Focusing his attention, he tried open a portal to the garden with the Shadow. He drew his taloned finger through the air.

Nothing happened.

He snorted. "Figures." After all, he had never been able to do much with the Shadow beyond hiding himself with the cloak or conjuring his Gloomblades. Spatial rifts were behind his ability. The rift he had brought Goldeneyes through was probably something that happened because of the Void within him at the time.

Try again, the voices whispered, or were they his own thoughts?

Nonetheless, he shrugged and concentrated once more. He visualised the garden before repeating the gesture. To his surprise, a rift appeared at his touch, pulsing lightly with darkness. He stepped through it cautiously, only to emerge amongst the flowerbeds.

Power beyond your wildest dreams.

He glanced down at his hands in sudden apprehension. The feeling vanished abruptly, as though pressed down by a giant hand and deftly smoothed over into calm and eager acceptance. Of course he was able to open rifts. He had channeled so much of the Void in the monastery that this was practically effortless.

You will awaken your true potential, my servant.

Mehe smiled. Best to practise then.

Void Bolt Ch 6

Another chapter collaboration with @devsash. I have not been posting here, and I apologize. I will catch up as best as I can.

Chapter 5

Niqi peered at the guest room door. She took a couple of slow breaths before stepping towards it. Goldeneyes sat on the bed, peering out at the bloodthistle. He seemed lost in thought. "What if I tried mixing it with...? But would that work?" he whispered to himself. Niqi raised her hand and softly knocked on the door. The Sin'dorei man started, glancing at the door. "Yes?" Niqi opened the door just a small amount. “Mister Goldeneyes? Sir? Ummm, lunch is almost ready.” Goldeneyes peered at her for a moment. "I'm not hungry," he said. “Are you certain? The way you dressed the meat, it smells heavenly.” She chewed her lip a moment. “I could bring a bowl to you, if you would rather be alone.” "I'll be damned before I eat anything prepared by a Greythorn," he said flatly.

“All...all right. I’m sorry. I just wanted to help,” she closed the door and wandered out to the garden. She flopped down in front of the bloodthistle, staring at them as tears streamed down her face. "Niqi?" Mehe said, stepping out after her. He frowned, seeing her tears. "What is it? Did Goldeneyes say something?" “I was just trying to help...”’she whispered. “But he won’t eat because I helped make it.” Mehe sighed. "Honestly, if I didn't trust you, I'd be the same way. He needs time to see you're not who he thinks you are." “I don’t think he’ll even give me a chance, Mehe. I don’t know what the other Greythorns did. But it must have been bad.” She reached out, gently touching the vibrant bloom. "I don't know," Mehe admitted. "He doesn't talk much about his world." “How did I make you see, Mehe? That I was all right?” "I saw how much you care about Anas." Mehe sat down beside her. "And I could tell you're a genuine person. That's what matters to me." “So just being me?” She dropped her hand down into her lap. He nodded. "Yes. Now come, let's have lunch. Anas is waiting for us." She nodded and worked her way to her feet. “All right.” Mehe stood as well. He gently brushed her tears away with a tendril. "Come," he said, turning and stepping inside. "I'll have to find Ælithil later as well. Should I wait near the shop or would he be anywhere else?" “I’m not sure. He just found out about a friend who died on the tree. He went to ask family about it.” She made her way to the stove. “Shall I serve?” "My deepest condolences." Mehe shook his head. "I think Anas wants to serve. He's really happy that he was able to heal you." “I’m glad I convinced him to try then,” Niqi smiled. She crossed to the table and found a seat. “It hurt, but my back feels a lot better now.” "Good." Mehe smiled as Anas placed the food before them and handed out the cutlery. "Okay then, let's dig in," Anas said, grinning widely. "I can't wait to taste my little sister's cooking!" Niqi smiled. “I do hope it’s good. It’s been a while since I cooked anything.” “I'm sure it is," Anas said, picking up his spoon. Niqi followed suit. Dipping in, she took a bite. “Oh Light. I need to know what he put on this. It’s wonderful.” Anas glanced at the door to the guestroom. "He's not joining us for lunch?” Niqi shook her head, looking at the table. "I'll give him some," Mehe said, getting to his feet. He filled a bowl with some of the food. “He won’t eat it,” Niqi said sullenly. “Because it was prepared by a Greythorn.” The two men stared at her. "He said that?" Anas asked, frowning. Mehe pursed his lips, glancing at the door. “He did. It’s fine. He doesn’t trust me.” Niqi took another bite, shrugging. She did her best not to get upset, but her drooping ears and tangled tendrils gave her away. Anas placed a hand on her shoulder. "I apologize for his behavior, little one," he said softly. “It’s hardly your fault, Anas.” Her tendril grabbed ahold of his hand. "I really want you to feel comfortable, safe and welcome here, but it's not working out that way." He sighed, gently squeezing her shoulder. She smiled sadly up at him. “I do feel safe with you and Mehe here. I’ll manage. Let’s just... have lunch. Maybe he will change his mind?” She tried to sound hopeful. "I daresay he will," Mehe said. He resumed his seat before taking another bite. “So, umm, how does it work? To make a pressed flower, Mehe? I’ve never done it.” She turned her attention to the Ren’dorei, offering him a small smile. "Hmm?" He glanced at her, his spoon halfway to his mouth. "I pick one that seems appropriate to press, cut it a little if it's too thick then put it between a pair of small wooden boards and tie them together." “Oh...” "We should get some ice cream sometime, little one." Anas smiled at her. "It's been so long since we did that." Niqi smiled up at him. “That sounds amazing. I would love some. Should we try new flavors or the same as last time?” She took another bite looking at the closed door. "Maybe we could try something new this time." Anas glanced at Mehe. "Would you like to join us, my love?” The Ren'dorei man nodded. "Just no mint. I hate mint." “Lemon is my favorite, though Anas introduced me to cookie dough. Maybe another fruit option? Like strawberry?” She tipped her head to the side. “Why no mint?” "It's just..." He pulled a face before shaking his head. "Damn well tastes like medicine." Niqi giggled. “All right, no mint.” "Strawberry sounds nice though." Anas chuckled. "We should try that. Who knows, it might even go well with the other flavours." Niqi finished up her bowl and headed towards the sink to clean up. “Berries and lemon are good together. And chocolate. So I bet they will.” "Only one way to find out! We'll have to get it." Anas helped himself to another spoonful. “Go to the city and get some...” She smiled faintly. "We'll do it sometime," Anas said, smiling at her. "Unless you'd like for us to go with Mehe and meet Ælithil?” Niqi took a moment to consider it. Looking up at Anas's face seemed to make her choice for her. "No, brother. You need rest. I can see it on your face. You shouldn't be taking a trip into the city yet.” "She's right, dalah'surfal. You need to rest." Mehe finished his meal and stood. "I'll go ahead and look for him." Niqi crossed over to Mehe and reached out for his dishes. “I’ll take care of that, Mehe. You relax for a little while.” "It's fine. I'll do them." He nodded before beginning to clean up. "Would you want Anas and me to link with you so that you can try delving into the Shadow?" “Will you show me how? I have no idea what to do.” She looked to Anas nervously. “I don’t want to hurt anyone.” Anas smiled reassuringly at her. "You'll be fine, little one. Mehe knows what he's doing." “Well, then yes. I would feel better if I had some idea what was happening.” She wiped off her hands and moved to Anas’s side. She gently smoothed down his hair while she waited for instruction. Anas smiled at her before rising to wash his dishes as well. Mehe dried his hands. "First, what do you know of the Shadow?" he asked, setting the cloth down. “I know it’s the balance of the Light. And that it has been twisted by people into something evil, but it’s not.” She pushed her messy hair behind her shoulders. He nodded. "It's dangerous, but no more evil than the Light is. It simply is and it's not to be feared." Behind him, Anas carefully set the washed cutlery aside and wiped his hands dry. He turned towards them, gently placing a hand on Niqi's shoulder. “Why is it treated as such?” "People like things in black and white." Mehe shrugged. "Also, because it's the opposing force of the Light and the Light is seen as good, it's easy to follow that the Shadow must then be evil." Niqi nodded. “All right. I guess that makes sense.” "Delve too deeply into the Shadow and you'll find the Void." Mehe grimaced. "It's far more powerful, but also harder to control. If you're not strong enough to keep your feet, it'll drag you under." He glanced at the Kaldorei man. "Anas is better versed in its use than I am. I prefer to avoid it." She smiled at Anas. Turning back to Mehe, she furrowed her brow. "But, because we are Ren'dorei, should that not make us more able to deal with it?" She settled into a chair to listen. "On the contrary," he said wryly, "It makes us more vulnerable to its bloody whispers. The Void tempts you to draw more and more upon it. It can and will drown out your consciousness, fragmenting your thoughts, and eventually break your mind." “So that’s why they are so loud when I’m upset...” Niqi pulled her knees up and set her chin on them. “The meditation I’ve been learning helps. But they’re still there.” Mehe nodded. "It's what we have to endure as Ren'dorei," he said, a note of resignation entering his voice. Niqi closed her eyes and sighed. She took a few breaths and tried to relax. “So what do I have to do?” she asked quietly as she opened her eyes once again "I'll reach out to you," Mehe said, his eyes turning purple. He sent out a tendril of power to the Ren'dorei girl, probing gently. "Can you feel it?" Niqi’s eyes shifted slowly as she nodded. “It’s cold.” She felt an odd sensation reacting from within herself. She chewed her lip as she attempted to focus on it. "Good." Mehe nodded. "Try linking with me. If it helps, close your eyes and visualize that you're taking my hand." “All right.” She closed her eyes and pictured it as he had described. As the hands in her mind touched, she gasped, jumping at the sensation. "It's okay, don't be scared," Mehe said calmly. "This is how you link with someone. What do you feel now?" Niqi took a shuddering breath. “It’s like a tugging. But it’s cold.” "The touch of this magic is always cold." Mehe watched her face carefully. "Are you okay with this? Do you want to continue?" "I'll help if it makes you feel better, little one," Anas offered, squeezing her shoulder comfortingly. Niqi took a few breaths and nodded. “I want to learn.” Her tendrils wrapped around Anas’s hand and she squeezed her eyes a bit tighter, trying to hold on to the visual. Mehe nodded. "Now, I want you to feel along from where we're holding hands back towards the source within yourself." She nodded slowly. Her brow furrowed a few times and her head tipped and moved one way, then the other. Mehe glanced at Anas. "Will you link with me, dear one?" Anas nodded, his eyes turning purple as well. He reached out, forging the link with familiar ease. His power trickled through the link, mingling freely with Mehe's. Niqi’s eyes snapped open wide when Anas joined the link. Mehe smiled at his mate before returning his attention to the Ren'dorei girl. "Now, I want you to visualize that source within you as a ball filled with water. Hold up your right hand and imagine it trickling slowly down your hand, pooling in your palm." “Gods... is it always so....” she shook off the thought, refocusing on the lesson.  She closed her eyes again, picturing a ball slightly larger than her hand. She reached out towards it, both in her mind and physically. As she started picturing the water, the color shifted. “It’s turning black. Why is it turning black?” Her voice took on an edge of panic. "It's the Shadow," Mehe explained patiently. "Deep breaths now. Remember you're here and you're safe with us. Just let it trickle slowly into your palm." The tendril’s grip on Anas’s hand tightened as she took a few deep breaths. She focused on the image, the dark water dripping started as a few large drops before suddenly flowing quickly. She screwed up her face, “No.... it’s...” Mehe reached out at once. Anas's power flowed gently through him as he focused it, soothing the flow of the magic within the Ren'dorei girl. "You're okay, Niqi. We've got you," he said. "Breathe, little one," Anas murmured. "Focus but don't force it." Niqi choked back a sobbing breath. “I am trying to make it trickle. But it came so fast!” "It can do that," Mehe said calmly. "You'll get better at it with practice. Don't worry, Anas and I won't let you fall." The girl took another breath and tried again. This time she managed to take it from slow drips to rapid ones. She sighed, relieved. Focusing again, she pushed it a bit past a trickle, but not as hard as the first time. "Good," Mehe said encouragingly. "Just like that. How do you feel now?" “Oh Light this is hard. I um.... a little better? It makes my head spin a bit. And I can hear the whispers now.” Her fingers moved in front of her like she was attempting to cup her hand. Mehe nodded. "The whispers will always be there when you work with the Shadow and the Void. You must learn to pay them no heed." "Look at your hand, little one," Anas said softly. She opened her eyes slowly before gazing at her palm. Gasping, “Is that from me?” "It is," Anas said with a smile. "You're doing very well." Her focus slipped and she opened up further, the shadows pulling down around her arm. She clamped down on it just as it reached her shoulder. "Close your eyes," Mehe instructed. "Focus on your breath. Keep breathing in and out slowly." Her purple eyes slid closed. Air flowed slowly in her nose and back out. The swirls retreated to her elbow and stayed around the lower portion of her arm. “Come on...” she whispered mostly to herself. "I think we've done enough for today," Mehe said, nodding at Anas. "You should rest, Niqi. I'll need to search for Ælithil." Niqi opened her eyes, hurt evident behind them. “I can get it! I can… I… ” "I know you can, little one," Anas said, smiling at her. "But Mehe's right. The Shadow isn't something that should be forced. It's not safe to push too far on your first try." She dropped her hand, letting it fall to her lap. "All right. I'm sorry I didn't do very well," she said softly. She glanced down at the shadows still clinging to her arm. "What do I do now?" "You did well for your first attempt. Now close your eyes," Mehe instructed. "Picture the water flowing back up your arm into the ball." She did as he asked, the shadows curling away and dissipating. She let out a relaxed sigh. "Very good," Anas said, pride in his voice. "That's wonderful, Niqi. You did so well." "I'll let go now," Mehe said before releasing the link. The purple faded from his eyes and Anas's. As the link released, Niqi’s body visibly slumped. “Oh Light, I’m so tired now.” "You should rest." Anas peered at her in concern. Niqi put her head down on the table, curling her arms around her face. “I’ll be ok. I’ll just take a minute here.” She closed her eyes, shuddering a little. Anas sat down beside her, his brow furrowing in worry. "I think she might've overexerted herself," he murmured. "It's okay. She can rest here with you. Keep you company while I'm in the city." Mehe glanced out of the window at the sky. "I should leave soon if I'm meeting him at the shop." The little Ren’dorei shifted slightly, but didn’t raise her head. “Why am I so tir...” she mumbled. "It's okay, little one." Anas patted her back gently. "Working the Shadow can be exhausting. Do you want to go to bed?" Niqi shook her head. “It’s your bed. I can rest here.” "I'd rather you rest there, where it's more comfortable," Anas said. Mehe nodded in agreement. The door to the guestroom closed with a soft click. Niqi slowly raised her head, blue eyes turning to them. “All right. Are you...are you ok? I didn’t hurt you, did i?” Mehe smiled wryly. "We're fine. Really." "I've been doing this with Mehe for a very long time." Anas smiled at his mate. "We've had a lot of practice." A relieved sigh escaped her lips. “Maybe someday I will be better at it,” she yawned. She slid down from the chair and hugged Anas. Anas hugged her back. "Off to bed now," he said, drawing back to smile down at her. "Hopefully when you wake up, Ælithil will be here for you." Releasing Anas, she turned to Mehe and smiled faintly. “Thank you, for...well everything.” Mehe nodded. "You're welcome," he said simply. She turned and walked to their bedroom. Climbing up into the bed, she pulled the pillow close, clinging to it. She closed her eyes and whispered to herself, "Please just let me sleep, please. Please don't let him be there." Anas's ears twitched. He threw Mehe a worried glance. "I need to go to the city," Mehe said softly. "Can you look after her, dalah'surfal?" Anas nodded. "Be safe, my love." Rising, he kissed Mehe's forehead before stepping into their bedroom. "Is everything okay, little one?" Niqi hugged the pillow tighter. “He’s gonna be there. If I sleep. He’s going to be there again...” she whimpered. Anas sighed sadly. He climbed into bed beside her and hugged her. "I'll hold you. Would that help?" She nodded and curled into him. “I’m sorry. I… I just...” She yawned wide. “I’m scared he’s really there.” "He won't be. Not as long as I'm here." Anas stroked her hair gently. "Sleep, little one. I'll be here." She took a shuddering breath and let herself drift off to sleep. Anas pulled the blanket over them both. He held her close as he slipped into slumber as well.

Through the Darkness - Part 4

(Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3)

Warm arms enveloped Mehe, drawing him into a tender embrace. He smiled, nuzzling into the familiar curve of his mate's neck.

"We fit so well together," Anas's deep, gentle voice murmured somewhere above him as he rocked Mehe.

The Ren'dorei sighed, basking in his mate's presence. He tilted his head back to meet the tailor's gaze, only to freeze.

Anas's face was streaked with dirt and blood. One eye was swollen almost shut and bruises mottled his dark skin. "I need you, my love," he whispered, exhaustion and desperation clouding his words. "Find me."

A cold spray of water splashed over Mehe and he started awake with a gasp. For a moment, the rocking sensation disoriented him until he remembered he was in a boat. Specifically, the boat he had managed to procure for his getaway... along with the stranger.

The man in question sat across from him, his hood pulled low to conceal his eyes. The first traces of sunlight on the horizon were still faint, allowing him to pass well enough as another Quel'dorei.

The sailors steering the boat went about their business, none the wiser about the Horde member in their midst. The nearest one offered Mehe a muttered apology, holding out a towel.

Mehe waved it away. He dashed his sleeve across his face before looking around. They were nearing the Tradewinds Market, a good distance from where Anas had been taken.

His lips thinned at the memory. He returned his attention to the other passenger, eyeing him warily. "How are you called?" he asked in Thalassian.

"Goldeneyes," the Sin'dorei replied, almost too quickly. It was the first thing he had said since their hurried flight from Boralus.

Mehe blinked, remembering Anas's vision. "Your first name... is Meheaaris, isn't it?"

The Sin'dorei glanced up at that in surprise, the glow of his golden eyes briefly visible in the shadows of the hood. He neither confirmed nor denied it. "Have we met?" he asked instead. "You seem familiar."

"We haven't, but you know me in a way," Mehe said cautiously. "I'm Meheaaris."

The Sin'dorei stared at him almost insolently.

"Anas had a vision." Mehe looked away from the stranger's invasive gaze. "He said he saw a Sin'dorei with golden eyes--"

"Anas is alive?" The man's voice rose in shock. "Reianas Starmane?"

"I don't know," Mehe admitted with a sinking feeling. "He was kidnapped by those damn tidesages and their lackeys."

"That's impossible," the stranger said in a shaking voice. "Anas died in the Burning of Teldrassil. He never even bloody made it to Kul Tiras."

"What the hell?" Mehe blinked. "He was here with me last night. I was with him when he got captured."

The Sin'dorei leaned forward. "How long has it been since the Burning?" he asked urgently.

"A few months," Mehe said, frowning.

The older man sat back, with a soft groan. "Where I'm from, it's been 500 years since the bloody Burning," he said, pressing the heels of his palms into his eyes.

Mehe frowned. "So you're from the future. A future in which Anas..." He trailed off, unable to stomach the thought of his mate's passing. His gaze flickered towards his talon. "It wasn't my intention to bring you here. I'd send you back, but I don't know how I managed to reach you in the first place."

"I was worried you'd say that... Meheaaris." The Sin'dorei lowered his hands with a weary sigh. "Do you know where they've taken Anas?"

"Probably their monastery here in Boralus or elsewhere in Stormsong." Mehe shook his head, frustrated. "He kept asking after them. I didn't think it would end up with him getting bloody kidnapped."

"You've done a bloody bad job at protecting him then." The Sin'dorei regarded Mehe's tendrils with an unreadable expression. "I'd never give up Quel'thalas for the Void," he remarked unexpectedly.

Anger flared in Mehe's breast. He clenched his fists, resisting the urge to lash out at the other man. "Look here, Goldeneyes," he spat. "If you've nothing useful to say about helping me find my mate, keep your bloody opinions to yourself."

"Hmm." The Sin'dorei ignored Mehe's outburst, pursing his lips thoughtfully. "The tidesages in my... world. They rarely kidnap people unless they have some use for them."

"Use? What use could they possibly have for--?" Mehe broke off, his eyes widening in horrified realisation. "His power. If they found out about it somehow..."

"They could force him into using it," Goldeneyes finished grimly. "We need to find him before it's too late."

"'We?' I don't recall asking for your bloody help," Mehe growled.

"You were the one who lost him in the first place," the Sin'dorei pointed out smugly.

Mehe bristled. "I've just about had it with your damn tongue, Goldeneyes--"

"We don't have time for this," the Sin'dorei snapped. "Each minute we waste, Anas gets further out of reach. Think back! Do you have any leads, any odd encounters?"

Mehe grimaced but forced himself to recall the events of the past few days. "We ran into a tidesage from yesterday and he reacted strangely to Anas. He might know something about all this."

"Do you know his name?" the Sin'dorei asked.

Mehe shook his head. "No. But I'm sure someone in Mariner's Row does."

Void Bolt Ch 4

A collaboration with @devsash who owns Mehe and Anas.

(Void Bolt) (Void Bolt Ch 2) (Void Bolt Ch 3)

An hour later, Niqi’s terrified scream pierced the peaceful quiet within the cottage. “Please! No!...Don’t....” she cried out before waking alone in the dark. She wailed into the pillow, trying to stifle the sound.

Mehe bolted upright in bed, his Gloomblade condensing in his hand. He leaped onto the floor and ran to the door, peering around for whatever was causing the commotion. Niqi was sitting up, against the wall. She had the pillow crushed to her face as she cried. Her whole body shook and her tendrils lashed out frantically.

Mehe stepped closer. "Niqi? What is it?" he whispered. "Did someone attack you?"

The tiny Ren’dorei pulled the pillow down just enough to look in his direction. “I keep...seeing...” she sobbed. “Over...and over...” He allowed the dagger to vanish before stepping closer. He sat down beside her and hesitantly placed his discoloured hand on her shoulder. “I...Mehe...he’s there. Every time I try to sleep. I...I close my eyes....” she shook harder, her tendrils grasping at his hand.

"What can I do to make you feel better?" he asked softly. Niqi looked at him searchingly. Very slowly, tentatively, she moved closer and grasped his arm. She leaned on his bare shoulder and tried to stop crying. Mehe blinked at this sudden proximity. Hesitantly, he draped his arm around her. One of his tendrils curled up to gently brush away her tears.

“Thank you,” she whispered. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to wake you.”

He shook his head as his tendril coiled around his arm once more. "I heard you crying earlier," he said quietly.

Her eyes went wide. “I...I didn’t mean to...” She hung her head. “I’m being so much trouble. Anas needs rest and you should be with him.”

"You're no trouble at all, Niqi." He sighed. "I want you to feel safe in our home at least. You've my word that I'll protect you as long as you remain here."

She curled into him. “I can still smell him on me. Feel...feel his hands... Mehe? What if he finds me?” She started shaking and pulled her knees to her chest.

"Then I'll kill him," Mehe said calmly as though discussing the weather.

“You...you would?”

"Yes." He leaned his head back against the wall, closing his eyes. Niqi closed her eyes as well and tried to take the deep breaths the way she’d been taught. After a few attempts, she managed to still herself a small amount. "That's good," Mehe said softly. "Just breathe.” She continued the exercise, her small body eventually relaxing enough that her tendrils released Mehe’s hand on her shoulder. Mehe cracked an eye open, peering at her. "Feel better?"

“A bit, yes.” She sat up, giving him some space. “Thank you...for sitting with me. I...” she flushed purple.

"You what?" Mehe opened both eyes and turned to her curiously.

“I am scared....by myself.” She answered him sheepishly, immediately regretting the words coming out of her mouth. “I’m sorry, I’m foolish....ignore me.”

His brow furrowed. "You mean you don't like sleeping alone out here?"

Niqi shook her head, looking at the floor. “Just forget I said it....” she whispered.

Mehe glanced at the door to the room he shared with Anas. "You could sleep in our room if you want," he offered. "That way you wouldn't be alone."

She looked up at him then to the door. “I...would I disturb Anas? Mehe, what happened to my brother?”

He sighed, his eyes sliding shut again. "He was kidnapped by the tidesages in Boralus. They wanted to harness his power in the service of their dark masters."

Niqi’s eyes went fully round. “They kidnapped him? Why didn’t anyone tell me? Oh Anas!” She pulled the blanket back over herself. “I’ll...I can...can manage. Take care of him.”

"You wouldn't be disturbing him. He's fast asleep." He stretched lightly, stifling a yawn. "If you'd feel safer, you're welcome to sleep in there with us. I know he wouldn't mind."

“Are you certain?” Her voice was muffled under the blanket.

"Very certain." Mehe smiled. "He'd want his little sister to be as comfortable as possible."

She smiled faintly. “All right,” she yawned. She scrambled out of the covers and picked up the belt and pillow. She arranged the pillow under her arm and started to reach for the blanket to gather it up.

"I'll get it," Mehe said. He climbed to his feet before picking up the blanket. Leading the way into the room, he set it down and refolded it into the makeshift sleeping bag. "There."

“Thank you, Mehe.” She set the pillow down and belt aside. “This...is very kind of you.” She knelt down and climbed back into the warmth of the wool.

"Hmm." He knelt and tucked her in gently. "I'll be right here if you need anything," he said.

“Ok.” She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. Then another. “Please don’t come back, please...” she whispered pleadingly.

"What is it?"

Niqi shook her head. “I just don’t want to...to see him again...”

Mehe pondered for a moment. "I have an idea," he said. Without further ado, he lifted Niqi into his arms.

Niqi gasped as he scooped her up, blanket and all. “Mehe...are you,” she quivered as he carried her over to the bed.

Carefully laying her down beside Anas's sleeping form, he climbed in next to her with a weary sigh. "Feel better now?"

“Yes.” She curled against Anas and studied his face. “Thank you.” She closed her eyes and tried to figure out how she would repay Mehe for this kindness.

"Hmm. Goodnight, Niqi," Mehe mumbled, already drifting off.

“Goodnight,” she murmured.

Void Bolt Ch. 5

A collab with @devsash

Ch 4

At the cottage, midday

Anas carefully wielded the knife, dicing the onions. "Are these enough, little one?" he asked. "Or do you need more?” Somewhere outside the house, Mehe's rhythmic hammer strikes against a nail were clearly audible over Goldeneyes's soft muttering as he tended to the herbs in the garden.

Niqi looked over at the board, shaking her head. “I think one more...” she murmured as she sat peeling the carrots. She turned her head to the side slightly and wiped her cheek on her shoulder.

He nodded, picking up another onion and began to peel it. "Meheaaris talks a lot to himself," he said quietly. "I think he's used to living alone."

“Gil used to do that too,” she offered. “When he first took me in.” She finished peeling the carrot and started to clean up.

"Does he still do it?" he asked, dicing the onion.

“Sometimes,” she nodded. “I don’t see him as much anymore.” She sat at the table absently lining the carrots up in front of her.

"Why not? Has he been busy?" Anas swept the diced onions onto a plate before setting the knife down. "Here."

“What?” She looked over at the plate. “Oh. Thank you.”  She picked up the onions and carried them to the stove, placing them into the pot to start sweating. “He spends most of his time with Silannah now,” she shrugged. “Which makes sense.”

"Do you miss him?"

She looked over to him, her blue eyes dim. “Very much,” she said quietly. “I’m lucky to have Æl, you, and Mehe though. Else I’d be alone.”

"You'll always have me, Niqi." He smiled gently at her. She stirred the onions, added a bit of salt and pepper and turned to Anas. Wandering over to him, she wrapped her arms about his waist. He chuckled, gently placing his hand on the top of her head. "Is there anything else I can help with?"

“Could you find the stew meat? I will start cutting up the carrots.” She squeezed him tight before releasing him. “Thank you… for everything.”

"You're welcome, little one." He glanced around the kitchen with a frown before calling out, “Mehe!”

"Yes?" an identical pair of voices chorused. Goldeneyes's face appeared at one window as Mehe peered in from another, both wearing the same curious expression.

Anas blinked at the duo. "Uh... where's the meat for lunch?” Niqi glanced back and forth between the two, a small laugh popping out. The Sin'dorei and Ren'dorei men arched an eyebrow at her in unison.

"I've dressed it," Goldeneyes said, pointing towards a covered bowl on the table with the trowel in his hand.

Anas glanced at it. "Right. Thank you, Meheaaris." He picked the bowl up, uncovering it.

"Hmmm," came the reply before Goldeneyes returned to his work. Mehe shrugged at Anas before disappearing as well. The ringing of his hammer resumed shortly after.

Niqi crawled up into a chair and leaned up in her knees. Pulling the cutting board over, she started chopping the carrots. "I'm still getting used to having Mehe and Goldeneyes here," Anas said. He carried the bowl to the sink before carefully rinsing the meat.

“It has to be hard on top of what happened to you,” She frowned. “Mehe told me. Anas, why didn’t you say?”

"You were already so upset. I couldn't make you feel worse." Anas sighed. "You needed me, little one. Besides, I'm getting better slowly but surely."

“You’re so good to me… I… I don’t deserve it.” She pushed the chopped pieces aside, picking up another.

Anas blinked, glancing at her. "Of course you do. If our places were switched, would you think I didn't deserve to be helped?"

“You’re… you’re a good person. You can help people, heal people… save them...” She choked out. The knife slipped from her hands falling to the table with a clatter. She buried her face in her arms.

Anas rinsed his hands, wiping them on a cloth. He stepped to her and lifted her into his arms. "You're a good person too, little one," he murmured, hugging her gently.

She cried into his hair, holding on to him. “What if he… what if he was right? That I am only good for… for...” she wasn’t able to finish the words.

He shook his head. "That's not true. You're an amazing friend and a wonderful seamstress. You helped Mehe and myself when we were going hungry. You even let us live here, in this house that was intended for you and Ælithil." He stroked her hair comfortingly. "You've helped us more than we can ever repay you, little one. I'm so glad to have you in my life."

She held on till she managed to get control over herself, at least a small amount. “I’m sorry. You… Oh Light, you shouldn’t be holding me… you’re supposed to rest!” She leaned back, looking at him, concerned.

"I'm not straining myself, little one." He kissed her forehead.

She hugged his neck and kissed his cheek. “Thank you, big brother,” she whispered into his ear. She cleared her throat a little. “We should probably keep working on lunch. Mehe will be working up an appetite and Goldeneyes...ummm, maybe?”

Outside, Goldeneyes growled almost inaudibly as he continued weeding. Anas's ears twitched as he glanced towards the window. "We should," he agreed, setting her gently on her feet.

“Did I say something wrong?” she asked in a whisper, seeing him move. She crossed to the stove to check on the onions and give them a stir.

He shook his head. "You didn't," he said quietly. "But it seems that Goldeneyes doesn't trust you."

Her ears drooped. “Just like with Mehe...”

"Well, he's technically also Mehe." Anas rested a hand on her shoulder.

“I know. But this one has a whole different reason for hating me.” She set the spoon down and smiled. “Mehe… um, your Mehe, he was really kind to me last night.”

"My Mehe?" Anas chuckled. "What did he do?"

Niqi’s eyes dropped to her feet. “He insisted on setting up the blanket for me. Made it nice and cozy. He even tucked me in. And when I woke him with my crying, he came out to check on me.”

He smiled. "Mehe is a kind man. I'm glad he was there for you when I wasn't."

“He’s kind of blunt about it though,” she laughed ever so lightly. “He just wants to fix it.”

Anas grinned, handing her the bowl of meat. "Did he?"

“Kind of? I still had nightmares, but waking to you both there made it better.” She picked up the bowl and added the contents to the pot. Taking a whiff, she closed her eyes. “That smells wonderful. What did he add to it?”

"It's his own recipe, I believe." Anas peered into the pot. "Something he invented."

“It’s like… Autumn...” she looked at it again. “I’m going to finish the carrots. Do you think you could stir that a bit?” She made her way back to the table. Her hair dropped into her face as she started working. Sighing, she pulled it back with a tendril and started chopping again.

Anas stirred it with the ladle. "Do you and Ælithil cook together?"

Niqi smiled, laughing a little. “No. There’s no kitchen in the tower. We mostly get food from the taverns and such.”

"Right. Though if you had the chance, would you like to cook with him?"

“I would love it. Although, I honestly don’t know if he can cook.” She sat there, pondering it.

"Maybe you should ask him about it," Anas suggested. "Who knows? The two of you might end up with something else in common."

“Perhaps,” She grunted, practically standing on the chair to get leverage on the last, and largest carrot.

He glanced over his shoulder at her. "Need help?"

"This carrot is defeating me..."

He chuckled. "Let me do that."

Heaving a sigh, she set the knife down and got out of the way. "Defeated by a vegetable..."

Anas picked up the knife and set to chopping it up. "I wonder if Mehe would grow these as well as his herbs," he mused. "Having our own vegetables sounds wonderful."

She walked over to the pot, pouring in a bit of water. "I bet he would if you asked him to."

"I will." He grinned, sweeping the chopped carrots into the plate. "There, all done.”

"They can go in in a little while...I wonder if some tomatoes would taste good in this with the spices...." She looked outside considering her options.

"Sounds like a good idea!" Anas set the knife down. "Though I don't think we have any at home right now."

"Well then I guess we'll have to go without for today." She walked over to the back door and sat on the steps. She watched the flowers in Mehe's garden sway in the breeze as she picked at the hem on her borrowed shirt.

"Goldeneyes really has a pair of green thumbs." Anas walked over to the pot. Picking up the ladle, he began to stir it again. "Ever since he came here, the plants have really been flourishing."

"They are very pretty. I wonder what he does?"

"He weeds them, applies fertilizer, talks to them, waters them." Anas smiled. "I think they really make him happy."

"Well it's working. And seeing him smile a little would be nice, I guess." She shrugged.

"Even the bloodthistle is growing so well. Did you see all the blooms they've put out?"

She shook her head. "I haven't gone out there. I...didn't want to disturb anyone."

"You mean Goldeneyes?"

"Yes," she whispered. She peered around, nervous she's being heard.

"He won't hurt you," Anas said firmly. "He knows you're my sister and that Mehe and I would never allow you to come to harm here."

Niqi shivered despite his words. "All right. I will," she swallowed. "I will go look."

He nodded. "I'll go with you if you want. Though it'll have to wait until this is done." He lifted the ladle to his lips, tasting it. "I think it's missing a little something. Here, try it and tell me what you think."

She got up and moved to his side. Taking a taste for herself, she nodded. “It needs...hmmm, Oh Light! The carrots! We didn’t put them in yet.” She grabbed the plate and dumped it in.

He laughed aloud at that. "Mother Moon, how could I forget? Thank you, little one."

“I did too. It’s ok, this way they won’t get too mushy.” She carefully stirred them in and set the ladle aside.

"That's true." Anas sniffed the aroma wafting from the pot and sighed. "It smells so good. You're a wonderful cook, Niqi."

“You think so? I used to hang out in the kitchen when Minn’da wasn’t paying attention. Cook was nice to me. He would let me help sometimes.” She climbed back up into the chair and leaned back. She winced and jumped forward.

Anas started. "Elune above! Are you okay?”

She nodded a little, tears having sprung to her eyes. “I think whatever Mehe put on my back yesterday is wearing off.”

"Your back?" Anas moved closer, concerned. "May I have a look?"

Niqi turned so he could look. She put her hands on the back of the chair and rested her head on them.

Anas carefully lifted the hem of her shirt, frowning at the variety of mottled colors marking her back. "I... could heal it," he said hesitantly, "but it would hurt. Or would you prefer I help you reapply the ointment?"

“It already hurts,” she sniffled. “Would… would it help you practice?”

"No. I don't want to cause you more pain." Anas lowered the shirt. "I'll get the ointment."

“It’s ok… if you want to try.” She offered it gently, knowing how sensitive it was for him. “Practice would make it better for you, right?”

"It would." Anas sighed. "It'll hurt, but it'll be fine once I'm done. Are you sure, little one?"

“I’m sure. Do you need me to do anything?” She adjusted herself in the chair so she was fully stable.

"No." Anas lifted her shirt once more to expose the bruises. "Just try to hold still." His eyes shifted to purple as the shadows swirled towards him. Niqi gripped the back of the chair, took a deep breath and held it.

"Mother Moon, guide my hand," he murmured before gently touching her back. The icy magic seeped into her flesh, spreading from his fingers. It yanked broken blood vessels together, scouring away the visible marks on her skin. Niqi gasped and gripped the chair harder. She whimpered, but did her best not to cry out, at least at first. "Hold on, little one." Anas's brow furrowed as the final marks vanished from her skin. He lifted his hand, allowing the shadows to retreat.

She cried out as he finished. As the cold subsided, she took a few gasping breaths. “Oh Light...” she choked out.

"Are you okay, Niqi?" Anas asked, touching her shoulder.

Her breathing leveled out as she nodded. “I’m okay. I’m okay. Oooh wow.” She set her forehead against her hands. “That was intense. Are they gone?”

"They are." He lowered the hem of her shirt once more. "I'm sorry for hurting you, little one.” A small sound at the window made his ears twitch. He glanced over, only to see Mehe and Goldeneyes peering in, watching him. Goldeneyes wore an expression of awe while Mehe gave him an encouraging nod. "She's okay," Anas said. "I just healed her bruises.”

Niqi flushed a deep purple when she realized they were watching. “It’s all right,” she reassured him. She turned around and leaned back. Smiling up at him, she sighed. “All better. Thank you, Anas.”

"Glad I could help," he said, smiling in relief.

“It was cold. Like that thing that came out of me,” she observed. “Like ice with spikes.”

Anas blinked. "Something from the Shadow then?"

“I’m not sure. It just happened.”

"It could be," Mehe said as he entered the kitchen. "The Shadow and Void are characteristically cold." Goldeneyes stepped in a moment later, closing the door behind him.

“So then I...” Her eyes went wide, surprised.

"Is that very surprising?" Mehe chuckled wryly. "We are Ren'dorei after all."

She shook her head. “It’s not that. I’m just not very… um… skilled? With magic.”

"Shadow and Void magic is very different from the arcane." Mehe bent over the sink to rinse his hands as Goldeneyes disappeared into the guestroom.

“But how do I control it? And… how do I do it again?” Her voice was a blend of frustration and curiosity. “I wasn’t trying to do anything. It just happened.”

"That would require opening yourself to the Shadow." Mehe glanced at her. "It can be unsafe if you don't know how to suppress the whispers. But, if you want, I could link with you and help keep you steady."

“Link with me?” She looked to Mehe, her brow furrowed as she tried to work out what he meant.

"He means join your magic with his," Anas explained. "He'll be able to help keep the flow under control.”

Mehe turned to Anas. "Will you help as well, dear one? I could use your strength if it goes awry."

“But… is it safe for Anas to do that right now? I don’t want to harm him.” She wiggled from the chair and moved to the stove.

"I'll be okay, little one," Anas said reassuringly. "Mehe knows how to draw upon my power without hurting me.”

"But only if you both want to," Mehe said firmly. "The Shadow is only slightly safer than the Void, but not very much safer."

Niqi stirred the pot a bit, set the ladle down and turned to Mehe. “I don’t want to hurt someone because I fling Shadow magic without knowing how.”

"But if you don't know how to control it, you might accidentally hurt someone," Anas said with a sigh. "I know I did when it first happened to me.”

“You did?” She placed her hand gently on his arm. She shifted in place, her tendrils curling around each other. “Could you help me with the control?”

"Yes," Mehe said calmly. "It's how I taught Anas."

“Then, it’s a good idea, I think,” she wiped her hands on the cloth by the sink.

Mehe nodded. "We can try after lunch if you want."

Niqi nodded and bowed her head to him. “Lunch is almost ready. Just a few more minutes until everything is cooked through.”

"Anything I can do to help?" Mehe glanced at the pot. "That smells really good."

Niqi giggled. “You think so? I didn’t pick the seasoning, but the rest Anas and I did together. Anas rescued me from the evil carrot.”

Mehe chuckled. "I'm glad he did." One of his tendrils curled up to caress Anas's cheek tenderly.

Anas turned his head slightly, brushing his lips over the glowing limb. "Niqi did a wonderful job holding out against it though," he said with a grin.

Niqi smiled at the two of them. “Not sure I would say that... “ she quipped. “Light save me, you two are precious.”

Anas laughed. "I'll get the bowls. Would you help me wipe down the table, my love?” Mehe nodded, picking up the cloth.

Void Bolt Ch. 2

A collab with @devsash​ who owns Mehe, Anas and Goldeneyes.

(Void Bolt Ch 1)

"Get one of my spare shirts," he said to Goldeneyes, who was peering at Niqi through narrowed eyes. The Sin'dorei nodded and stepped back, allowing Mehe to carry Niqi to the guest room. He left the room without a word. Niqi gasped as the air shifted between the two spaces. She tried to look up a little, her messy hair falling into her face.

"Anas is asleep," Mehe said, carefully setting Niqi on the bed. "I'll tell him you're here once he wakes."

Niqi nodded, not fully comprehending. She curled in, making herself as small as possible. “Oh Light....”

There was a soft rap at the door. Goldeneyes stood there with a neatly folded shirt and a pair of pants. "Figured she'd need those too," he said. He held them out to Mehe, his eyes still slightly narrowed on the girl.

Mehe accepted them with a nod of thanks. He turned back to Niqi. "My clothes are probably going to be a bit loose, but it's all we have right now that's close enough to your size. I'll step outside so that you can change.” Placing the shirt and pants beside her, he stepped back a bit.

Goldeneyes watched from the door, his expression carefully guarded. Niqi looked up at Mehe and then over to the other. Her eyes went fully round. She pointed at Goldeneyes then Mehe, her mouth working for a moment before she managed to speak. “He’s...you...but…” She swallowed hard. “Mehe? What is happening?” She pulled away crawling backwards towards the headboard.

"It's a long story." Mehe grimaced. "I'll explain after you're dressed, but he means no harm.”

"I'll see if Anas needs anything," Goldeneyes said, stepping away.

She kept staring at the now empty doorway. She nodded very slowly, her shaking hands starting to pull on the lacing of her dress. Mehe watched her for a moment before sighing. "Do you need help?" he offered. "Or would you prefer that I wait outside?"

“I can...I can get it,” she sobbed.  She flushed. Her face had started to get puffy from crying, she turned her back to him, letting the ruined top of her dress fall to the bed, revealing a growing patch of dark purple bruises.

Mehe frowned at the injury. He turned to the nearby cupboard, picking out a jar of ointment. "Here. For your back. I'll help you put it on if you want."

“For my back?” She peered over her shoulder at first sounding confused, but wincing in alarm as the attempt pinched at the damage.

"Hold still." He removed the lid of the jar. Stepping closer, he smeared the ointment carefully over the mottled skin.  "There," he said, replacing the lid. "It'll help with the pain and the bruising."

“Thank you,” she whispered.

He nodded. "I'll let you change," he said, replacing the jar in the cupboard before stepping out and closing the door behind him.

She slowly managed to change her clothes, softly sobbing through the process. Once she finished, Niqi looked around the room. She found a small wash bowl and rinsed off her face. She had to hold his pants up to stop them from falling as she walked.

Mehe knocked the door softly. "Everything okay in there?"

“Come in,” she whispered. She had settled down onto the edge of the bed, her arms wrapped tight around herself.

Mehe pushed the door open, a mug of steaming tea in his hands as he glanced her over. "Could you get her a belt?" he called to Goldeneyes before stepping inside and sitting down beside her. "Here," he said, offering her the mug.

She looked down at it a moment before reaching out to accept it. “Thank you,” she said dully. Taking a sip, she swallowed with effort. After a few more, her mouth and throat no longer felt like sand.

"What happened?" he asked. "Were you attacked?"

Niqi nodded slowly. “Yes...a man...he...came in...” she shook her head to focus. “I was looking at one of the shop options.”

"The ones Anas suggested?" Mehe frowned.

“Yes,”  she whispered. “The one along the canal. Near Old Town”

He nodded. "Go on."

“I..I came down the stairs and he...was there. He...called me a spy...” her eyes started to darken again, whispers ringing in her ears. Setting the mug down, she curled back in on herself. Her tendrils writhed around each other, twisting into tight balls.

"Niqi?" Anas's voice called weakly from the other room.

“Anas?” She cried out his name, standing quickly. She tripped a little on the pants and started to stumble to the door.

Mehe stood at once, taking her arm. "Easy," he murmured, steering her to the other bedroom.

Anas was awake, his tired silver eyes fixed on Niqi. "Little one," he whispered, extending a hand towards her. Goldeneyes, who had been seated beside him, stood up and moved back to make room.

“Oh Anas! What happened?” She moved to him, her purple eyes searching his face. She clasped his hand.

"Trouble sleeping," he said, slowly sitting up in bed. "But nevermind that. What's wrong, Niqi? Will you tell me about it?” She crawled up on the bed, curling into him and wept. Anas wrapped his arms around her gently, stroking her hair. "What happened?" he asked, glancing at Mehe.

"She was attacked," Mehe said grimIy.

“I...I think....I think I killed him, Anas...I think I killed somebody!”

"Killed?" Anas tipped her chin up, peering at her in concern. "Was it the person who attacked you?"

“Yes...he tried to...he said I was only good for one...one thing...” She started crying harder, pulling at the front of her shirt.

Anas's expression grew thunderous. "Where is he now?" he asked softly. The shadows in the room seemed to darken, stretching towards him. Goldeneyes took a step back, his brow creased with worry.

“I...I left him...” she choked out. “On the steps.”

Mehe nodded. "I'll go check," he said before ripping open a portal and stepping through.

"Did he hurt you?" Anas asked quietly. The shadows did not retreat. Even the late afternoon sunlight streaming in from the window appeared muffled.

She gingerly touched her arm. “He grabbed me...tore my dress from.... I felt my fingers grow cold...” she shivered. “And he pushed me against the wall and then he....he...”

Anas bared his fangs. "He'd better be dead," he growled. "Else, he'd wish he were once I get my hands on him."

“Anas...I...something came out of me. It was so cold,” she shivered. And shivered again, her whole body shaking. Her voice fell away, as she gasped for air.

Anas took a deep breath, reining in his anger. The room brightened once more as he stroked Niqi's hair reassuringly. "It's okay, little one. Breathe. Mehe and I will keep you safe."

She swallow air hard, trying to calm herself. Her eyes flicked to Goldeneyes, suddenly remembering his presence. “Wait...you...” She looked to Anas. “Is he...the one you saw?”

Anas glanced over at Goldeneyes. "Yes," he said. "This is Meheaaris from... another time and place.”

"Do I know you?" the Sin'dorei asked, peering at Niqi. "You look somewhat familiar."

Niqi pulled away from Anas very slightly. “I don’t think so... my name is Niquisse Greythorn. I only just met Mehe recently.” Her tendrils twisted and curled upward as she studied the Sin’dorei’s face. “So this...this is what Mehe looked like before?”

Goldeneyes snorted, gesturing at the grey in his hair. "If he was five centuries older and hadn't turned into a Ren'dorei, then maybe." He frowned. "Another Greythorn eh? Bloody hell, seems I can't escape you people even in this time."

Niqi looked thoroughly confused. "What do you mean? There's only two of us...."

He raised an eyebrow. "Really? There are lots of you over where I'm from. Who doesn't know the Greythorns? They're the most powerful family in all of Quel’thalas." He scowled.

Niqi’s eyes dimmed. “That must be nice.”

"Nice? Hah!" he scoffed. "I've never known a more arrogant, unpleasant bunch. Always looking to bloody profit off the suffering of others." Niqi burst into tears, curling in beside Anas.

Anas cuddled her close. "That's enough, Meheaaris," he said firmly. "Can't you see she's already upset? Most of her family is gone.”

"Good bloody riddance," the Sin'dorei spat.

"But...we...I..." Niqi pulled away, trying to flee the room, only to be gently stopped by Anas’s hand on her shoulder.

Anas glared at the Sin'dorei. "Leave. You're only making this worse.” Goldeneyes's lips thinned. He stepped out of the room without another word, closing the door behind him.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry," she whispered.

He stroked her hair gently, kissing her forehead. "It's okay, little one. I'm here." He sighed, glancing at the door. "Meheaaris Goldeneyes is... familiar, yet so different from the Mehe I know."

She choked back her tears, trying to understand. "We aren't like that..."

"I know, little one." Anas's gaze seemed to turn inward. "His world is not exactly like ours. The events didn't necessarily happen the same way as we know. For instance, it seems I died in the Burning after saving Sheronda."

"Oh Anas....” She hugged him tightly. “Was he with that version of you?” She looked at the door. “I shouldn’t have bothered you all. I’m sorry. I should....I should go.” Anas opened his mouth to respond, only for a rift portal to materialize before them.

A very grim looking Mehe appeared from it, his shadowy dagger vanishing from his hand. "I checked the whole place up and down." He waved a hand and the portal snapped shut. "The man who attacked Niqi. He's gone."

(Chapter 3)

Through the Darkness - Part 3

Mariner's Row, Boralus

"No!" Mehe shouted. The whispers roared in his ears as he slashed at the tendril before whirling back to stab at one of the men reaching for him.

The shadows... take their shadows.

He grimaced at the voices. They were so loud here, with all the Void magic saturating the air. Ducking under a sword sweeping towards his head, he swiped his dagger at a hand grasping his thigh before looking up frantically for his mate.

Both Anas and the tidesage were nowhere to be seen. A faint purple shimmer was all that remained where they stood.

A wordless bellow of rage tore from Mehe's lips. The whispers eagerly clamoured closer in the back of his mind.

Take their shadows. Make them pay!

He flung a hand out at the closest guard. The Void's raw chaotic power crashed through him like a tidal wave.

The human froze, his face paling. He fell to his knees, panting harshly as his shadow stretched towards Mehe. The other guards paused uncertainly, watching as the man's shadow ripped free and he collapsed with a final shuddering breath.

The darkness slammed into Mehe, flooding him with euphoric power. Void energy seeped from his skin, coalescing into bladelike projections that unfurled from his back. They spread wide like wings of the purest, blackest night, so disorientingly dark, it was as if reality itself had been cut away. His tendrils uncoiled from his arms to writhe joyously at the magic coursing through his veins. He had never felt this strong, this alive.

Yes. The voices were exultant. They will fear you now!

Mehe straightened, the daggers in his hands shifting into a sword. He had never managed anything more than the smaller blades without help before, but this strange power within him made it effortless. His eyes narrowed at the remaining guards. They were mere insects compared to what he wielded.

Take their shadows as well, the whispers urged. Become what you were destined to be!

A predatory smile curved his lips. He darted towards the terrified group of humans faster than the eye could follow. He was one with the Void, he was unstoppable.

Their shadows on the pavement promised so much more power. He reached out, clamping his Void-darkened hand over them. The humans froze at once, caught in his grasp like helpless beetles. One of them made a muffled sound of fear from between tightly shut lips.

Mehe ignored it. He started draw the shadows into himself... only to hesitate.

This... this was not right.

His mind struggled to think through the ecstacy permeating his entire being.

The Void... If he followed the whispers... If he lost himself to them, it would break his mind and change him. He would never again be the man that Anas fell in love with.

Anas...

Growling in the back of his throat, he fought the whispered enticing promises. Instead, he drew strength from the thought of his mate and concentrated, forcing the energy within him to flow to the tip of his taloned finger. Raising his hand, he whipped the talon downwards in a swift vertical motion, tearing through the very fabric of existence.

The energy flowed out of him into a growing Void portal, leaving him drained but sober. His skin returned to its usual pale tone, the black bladelike projections vanishing.

Freed from his grip, the nearest guard gaped at the rift in shock. Mehe backhanded him hard before kicking him through the rip. He pirouetted out of the way of another guard charging at him. She went right into the portal after the first.

Their shadows! You could crush them all!

"No! Anas!" Mehe yelled over the voices in his head, trying to down them out.

A guard tackled him to the ground, followed quickly by another, piling on top of him.

He struggled to slip free but their weight bearing down upon him made it impossible.

Another guard approached him as he fought to get out from under the bodies. Her gaze was ice as she raised her sword over her head.

A dagger flew out of the portal, embedding itself in her throat. The human's eyes went wide, the sword falling from her fingers.

The other guards atop Mehe glanced up as a figure leaped out from the portal. Red hair flashed as more daggers flew from its hands. Within moments, all the guards were either dead or dying.

Mehe shoved his way out from under the guards and sat up, panting.

His saviour was standing with his back towards him. The man’s feet were apart, a dagger gleaming in each hand as his head turned form side to side, scanning the path for more hidden assailants. Those pointed ears... it was a Quel'dorei or a Sin'dorei man. His red hair was flecked with grey strands, which meant he had to be a few centuries older than Mehe at least.

"Ama noral'zaram," the man murmured in Thalassian, his daggers disappearing up his sleeves. Saved by the blade.

"Indeed." Mehe climbed to his feet, grimacing at the aches and pains from the fight. "Thank you, malanore. I--" The rest of his words died on his tongue as the man turned to face him.

He was Sin'dorei, one with golden eyes that shone with the power of the Sunwell. But for the grey in his hair, his face and everything else about him was the spitting image of Mehe before his transformation.

"Who... who are you?" Mehe whispered, stunned.

The Sin'dorei eyed him suspiciously. "Who are you?" he demanded before glancing around. "This is Boralus, isn't it? Why have you summoned me here?"

Mehe shook his head. "I didn't summon you. I just opened a--" He glanced at the portal, which was already closing up as the threads of reality reasserted themselves.

The Sin'dorei who looked exactly like himself watched the portal disappear through narrowed eyes. "So that was an accident? No matter, I had to come anyway. Especially when there's a name I've not heard in a very long time." He looked around before his golden gaze settled back on Mehe. "Tell me, Ren'dorei. Did someone call out for... Anas?"

Through the Darkness - Part 1

Mariner's Row, Boralus

"Anas? Are you listening, dear one?" Mehe asked for what felt like the hundredth time.

His mate started before glancing down at him sheepishly. "I'm sorry, my love. What were you saying?"

Mehe sighed. "I was asking what you'd like to have for lunch."

"Maybe something back at the inn?" Anas suggested, his gaze already sliding back to the mysterious monastery.

One of Mehe's tendrils curled up to brush through Anas's beard. "You've been like this for the past three days now," he said, concerned.

And nodded distractedly. "Something about it seems... off," he mused. "Why would they be channelling so much of the Void? And why will no one tell us about these tidesages?"

"Seems no one wants to draw their attention by discussing it." Mehe glanced around the bustling port. "From how they're tiptoeing around the issue, it's probably wise for us to avoid it as well."

"Right, but--" Anas blinked, his gaze drawn elsewhere.

A man was striding briskly in their direction, weaving through the crowd. He was dressed in elaborate robes that had a ceremonial look to it, yet seemed comfortable enough for him to move with ease. "Excuse me," he said curtly, pushing past Anas. His eyes widened momentarily at the contact and he glanced up at the tall Kaldorei in shock.

Anas began to speak, but the human whirled around abruptly and hurried towards the harbour.

Mehe frowned. "That was strange."

Anas was still staring at the robed figure. "That man," he murmured. "His clothes are just like the ones I saw in that vision."

Mehe's frown deepened as he returned his gaze to the human, who was lowering himself into a boat. The oarsmen pushed off and it skimmed across the waters, heading towards the monastery.

The fine hairs on the back of Mehe's neck prickled. "I think that might have been a tidesage." His tendrils coiled over Anas's hand, reacting to his unease. "Come, let's get going," he urged. "We need to meet Brineweaver after lunch, remember?"

Anas nodded absently, allowing Mehe to pull him away.

Finding Home

Elwynn Forest, Eastern Kingdoms

"So, what do you think?" Anas set the food-filled basket down as he watched his mate's careful scrutiny of the cottage.

Mehe looked up from examining the hinges on the door. "I like it," he said, wearing a small smile. "Still needs work though, but it's nothing I can't handle."

The Kaldorei grinned, looking around. "It's nice and peaceful out here."

"Hmm." Mehe tilted his head back, his eyes sliding shut as a slight breeze tugged at the purple strands of his hair. His tendrils uncoiled from around his arms to hang in a relaxed manner over his chest.

"Niqi was asking if you'd help her with the flowers for her wedding." Anas knelt to pluck a peacebloom.

Mehe was silent for a moment. "In return for all this? The cottage, the food?"

"I feel bad that she's doing this for us and we can't even pay her for it." The Kaldorei hesitated before tucking the white flower behind his mate's ear.

Mehe's eyes snapped open, glancing up at him in surprise. His hand came up to touch the soft petals in his hair. The look on his face morphed into one of mystified bemusement.

Anas snorted at his expression. He swept Mehe up into his arms and kissed his freckled cheeks. "It looks good on you," he murmured.

Mehe's arms encircled his neck, his smile returning. His tendrils twined around Anas's arms, tangling in his hair. "You think so?" he asked.

"I really do, my love." Anas grinned, nuzzling into his neck. "A handsome ornament to your natural radiant beauty."

The Ren'dorei laughed aloud, tipping his head back. "I'll never tire of your honeyed words, dalah'surfal," he said, gasping as Anas's lips brushed the column of his throat.

Anas smiled. "I'll keep them coming. Need to think of something new."

"Do you rehearse them? Make a list in your head or--?" Mehe bit his lip as Anas nipped his pale skin lightly before soothing it with tender kisses.

"No need. My inspiration is right here in my arms." Anas nibbled lightly on Mehe's ear, eliciting another gasp.

"I'll help her with her flowers," Mehe purred, his voice deepening. "I owe her an apology anyway. As for you, my handsome husband-to-be," his tendril brushed Anas's cheek gently. "Don't stop. I want you."

Anas chuckled. "As you wish, my love."