Chapter 18: Haunting Possibilities

**Araatris:** The dream is of home, the twins cuddled in her arms and Yami beside her on the couch, chattering at her about a funny beast in the market.

**Rhoelyn:** “…ysse…” Her searching gaze finds no one else. When she turns back to Yami, his dark eyes are creased with worry. “You have to wake up, min’da.”

**Araatris:** Her brow furrows, but she’s distracted when Mirra squirms in her arms and reaches up to grab her cheek with a squeal. “My light? What do you mean?”

**Rhoelyn:** Her eldest son frowns. “I’m not sure what’s happened. You… called out in your sleep, but an’da is very worried.” He rests a hand on her arm.

**Araatris:** The young mother blinks at him. “Worried? But I’m happy here, Yami. I’ve missed you all so much.” Rhy gurgles and snuggles in, sucking his thumb.

**Rhoelyn:** The young man tries another angle. “Alright, then where are min’nu and an’da? When did you return? What’s the last thing you remember?”

**Araatris:** “W… we got back… um…” Nysse looks around at the large room, the round, natural walls of the tree all around them and the forest visible outside.

**Rhoelyn:** The world around her wavers to a much darker forest, then the invisible voice pierces past Yami and the twins. “…se… Nysse. Why isn’t she waking?”

**Araatris:** A soft, worn voice answers as the huntress tries unsuccessfully to focus, her eyes drifting closed. “She was badly wounded, brother. She must rest.”

**Rhoelyn:** Yami squeezes her hand. “I’m here, min’da. Our connection is in the waking world, too. Use it.” The huntress fights tears as her arms grow lighter.

**Araatris:** “No,” she sniffles, suddenly feeling sad and desperate, the twins gone. She clamps her hands around Yami’s wrist. “I want to stay with you!”

**Rhoelyn:** Her son shakes his head. “Min’da, we need you to come home to us, awake and well. Please, min’da.” He leans forward and kisses her cheek.

**Araatris:** The warmth of his lips spreads along her cheek. “… shelter. We mus… warm…” Another voice intrudes over that, closer. “Aw. Ya’re so sweet!”

**Rhoelyn:** There’s a soft growl at the intruding voice. Nysse regards Yami. “Oh my light, I miss you and the twins so much. I-” Her son begins to fade.

**Araatris:** “Be safe, min’da,” he says with a smile. “We love you.” Behind his fading form, Korran limps out of the forest, a little human girl at his side.

**Rhoelyn:** “I love you all, Yami.” He disappears as she finishes speaking, and she hurries to the wolf and girl. “Korran! Are you alright? Who’s this?”

**Araatris:** The child is barely taller than her spirit wolf’s wounded shoulder with freckles and little brown braids down each shoulder. She pats him.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse crouches in front of the girl while resting an affectionate hand on Korran’s neck. “Hey there, little one, what’s your name?”

**Araatris:** Smiling, the girl reaches out to touch Nysse’s green hair, bold and curious. “I’m Kitalia, but my papa calls me Tali. Yer Miss Nysse, right?”

**Rhoelyn:** “May I call you Tali?” Nysse watches Kitalia play with her hair and nod. “Who’s your father, and why aren’t you with him? He must be worried.”

**Araatris:** Her answer is a little giggle. “Prolly he is a little. But I promised him I’d come right back once I helped. I can’t leave papa alone, y’know.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse tilts her head like one of her confused wolves. “Once you helped? Wait… you’re a spirit, aren’t you? Is he the reason you stay, Tali?”

**Araatris:** “Yep!” In her glee, the child hugs a wincing Korran. “I’ll stay with papa unt-… um. I better not get ‘stracted. Papa hates when I go on an’ on.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress tries again, “Tali, who’s your father, and why are you here?” She shoots Korran a sympathetic look, then back at the girl.

**Araatris:** Tali rubs her cheek on Korran’s fur. “Papa’s name is Nolin, Miss Nysse. An’ mine’s Kitalia Quaed.” She smiles over at Nysse. “I’m here t’warn ya.”

**Rhoelyn:** For a ground that doesn’t exist, it hurts when Nysse lands back on her butt. “W-wha?! Quaed? The undead Quaed that I met in Pandaria?”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse shakes her head and mutters to herself, “There’s no way that this is real, I must be delirious or something. Yami said I was asleep…”

**Araatris:** Tali giggles and leans down, crouching in front of Nysse. “No, really! Can’t ya see? Mama always said I looked th’most like papa of all’a us.”

**Rhoelyn:** The night elven woman stares at the girl, trying to see any bit of Quaed. Finally, she has to admit a bit of resemble to the forsaken. “Y-yes…”

**Araatris:** The pleased grin that lights the girl’s face at that draws a little answering one from the huntress. “Quaed is… really… I never imagined…”

**Rhoelyn:** “Papa is great, isn’t he?” She stands and clasps her hands behind her back. “He told me that he likes this dress, but I dun get to wear it much.”

**Rhoelyn:** The girl suddenly claps her hands. “Oh! Right! Warning.” Nysse blinks at the sudden change, but happy not to answer the girl’s rhetorical question.

**Araatris:** Tali’s smile sobers. “They’re comin’ ta get Miss Rhoelyn an’ you, papa’s other friends. That patchwork lady an’ mister Kai made all kindsa plans.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse grimaces. “Apothecary Kimmel and Kai was that troll that was with Nataro. I remember them. Thank you, Tali. Did you know anyone else?”

**Araatris:** She looks proud as she answers, “I always keep papa company, so I know all his friends. Mister Leo, too! They… the others’re really mad at him.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Oh? Who are the others that are mad at him?” She tucks a stray hair behind Tali’s ear. The voices from earlier rumble in the background.

**Araatris:** “Miss Dakna,” the girl starts ticcing people off on her fingers, “an’ Neelie – she’s really nice when she ain’t so mad – an’ funny mister Bendric.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress frowns thoughtfully. “I don’t think I know Neelie or Bendric. Why are they mad at him, Tali? Did he do something they didn’t like?”

**Araatris:** Her answer comes with a shrug. “I don’t really get it, but seems like they’re mad cuz mister Leo is your friend an’ not theirs, any more?”

**Rhoelyn:** “Ahhh. It’s alright, Tali. We’ll watch over mist–Leo. Thank you for your warning. Would… would you like a hug?” Nysse opens her arms.

**Araatris:** The ghost’s green eyes widen, and she blushes. But she nods and leans forward. As the night elf hugs her, she sniffles. “They’re my friends, too.”

**Araatris:** Her grip tightens on Nysse’s shoulder. “Miss Rhoelyn was so nice t’me, even though her heart was all broke apart. I hope they aren’t mean t’her.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress hugs her tightly. “We’ll make sure that they aren’t. You should head back to your father. Will you tell him thank you for me?”

**Araatris:** Tali nods and smiles, pulling back. “Yep! But he’ll just grumble.” She darts forward and plants a kiss on Nysse’s cheek. “Ya better wake up.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse gives her a fond little grin. “I suppose I should.” She stands and caresses Korran’s head. “Korran, would you give her an escort?”

**Araatris:** The child giggles and rests a hand in his soft fur. “Papa will be so surprised if I bring ‘im back. Thank ya for listenin’ ta me, Miss Nysse.”

**Rhoelyn:** The young woman nods. “Of course. Take care, Tali, and be careful with Korran. He’s still healing.” She leans forward and kisses the top of her head.

**Araatris:** “… doing the b… stop h….” The voices from outside intrude once more as the child grins and steps back. Korran noses her, turning away. “I will!”

**Rhoelyn:** It’s only once both child and wolf are gone that the ache pervades Nysse in both body and mind. The voices grow louder, “What d’ya think…”

**Araatris:** The huntress grimaces, shifting in the darkness as it grows in intensity. “… waking… give her so…” Rhese’s voice reaches her first. “Surfal?”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse tries to respond, but finds her throat to dry to respond. A painful cough rises to the surface. She attempts to open her eyes.

**Araatris:** “Please, brother,” comes Rhoelyn’s soft voice as Nysse feels a warm hand settle against her arm. “I know you are anxious, but give her space.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse tries again as she blinks blurry eyes open. “Wat-” She coughs. A cup is placed against her lips as a gentle hand raises her head.

**Araatris:** The shadows are deep on her sister’s face as it comes in to focus. Rhoe shushes her and drips a little water in her mouth. “You’re safe, sister.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Rho-Rhoelyn,” the huntress manages the priestess’ name with the help of fresh moisture. Rhese nudges in closer. “I’m here, too, surfal.”

**Araatris:** Pain washes through the young mother when she tries to move, and she grimaces. Her mate strokes her arm. “Just lay still, lovely. You were hurt.”

**Rhoelyn:** She swallows and nods. “Korran. He was in range of the azerite bomb, trying to get to the others…” The huntress turns only her head to look around.

**Araatris:** They huddle together beneath the wide, low branches of a pine, sheltered and alone. It’s not clear where the rest are. “We wondered. Is he…?”

**Rhoelyn:** “No, but he’s badly injured. We’re… connected. We share our pains, I think.” Nysse stares up at the leaves. “What happened while I was out?”

**Araatris:** Rhese exchanges a look with his sister. “Korran and you were the only ones hurt in the explosion. Rhoe saw it coming and got everyone out.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse chuckles dryly, then frowns.”I do seem to have that luck, don’t I? Where is everyone else? I thought I heard them? Where are we?”

**Araatris:** The healer bites her lip, quiet over her brother’s shoulder as he answers, “Relare just stepped out. Faye and that blood elf girl are keeping watch.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Leo? Kaer? Is there something wrong?” The young woman attempts to sit up again, only to fall back with a pained grunt. Rhoelyn’s eyes open wide.

**Araatris:** “Nysse!” she scolds, grabbing her shoulders. “You must lay back. They are well. They are all well, save you.” Rhese frowns as her magic glows.

**Rhoelyn:** “Tsume as well? She’d normally be nearby, but I don’t see her.” Nysse frowns worriedly. Rhoelyn keeps firm pressure on her shoulders. “Tsume is-”

**Araatris:** “Nysse,” Rhese cuts in, stern and shooting an oddly scolding look at his sister. “Everyone is fine. Tsume was fretting, so we sent her with Verune.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress deflates. “Oh…” She bites her lip and closes her eyes. After a moment, she offers, “I saw Yami and a girl named Tali while I was out…”

**Araatris:** Both twins blink in surprise, but they say opposite things at the same moment. “Yami?” Rhese exclaims. “Tali?!” The priestess startles, gaping.

**Rhoelyn:** “I dreamed we were home,” Nysse says longingly, “with the twins and Yami. He was chatting, then… he was there. Not just a dream version.”

**Araatris:** The druid considers his love for a moment. “Your… connection? Do you think he can reach you from so far away, lovely?” Rhoe goes silent.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse gives him a look. “Yes, of course I do. He was telling me that you were worried and that I should wake up. It was definitely our dear light.”

**Araatris:** Brushing her hair back from her temple, Rhese teases, “Then I’m glad he’s watching over you, my lovely. Goodness knows, his mother needs watching.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Rhese…” She smiles gently. “Well, he ended up leaving, but then Korran brought a little human spirit girl to me. She was bringing us a warning.”

**Araatris:** The priestess sits back on her heels, clasping her hands in a nervous ball in her lap. “What… what kind of warning, sister?”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress glances between them. “Tali is Nolin Quaed’s daughter. It seems they’ve pulled together a team to come after us… including Kimmel.”

**Araatris:** Rhoelyn says nothing, while Rhese’s brow furrows in confusion. “Nolin Quaed?” Then he blinks, drawing back. “Quaed? The undead who had Rhoe?”

**Araatris:** He snarls, suddenly, his fist clenching. “Is this all related? Why he kidnapped her from Darnassus and why that apothecary wants to capture her?”

**Rhoelyn:** “I don’t think he’s in with Kimmel or he wouldn’t send his daughter to tell us they’re coming.” Nysse shifts to get more comfortable and grimaces.

**Araatris:** Their sister’s voice is very quiet as she says, “He… did not kidnap me. Quaed came to Darnassus to… t-to see me safely away from the fire…”

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese’s head snaps around to look at his sister. Nysse speaks first though, “I’d guessed as much. Tali said you and Leo were his friends.”

**Araatris:** Rhoe’s eyes widen. “Perhaps Tali exaggerates on my part, but… I believe Nolin has some measure of heart. He saved Alen when he need not have.”

**Rhoelyn:** Grimacing, Nysse nods. “His daughter has enough for both of them. She mentioned several names… Kimmel, Quaed, Kai, Neelie, Bendric, and Dakna.”

**Araatris:** Her mate turns his attention back to her with some reluctance, shooting one last annoyed look at his sister. “Dakna was that orc with Nataro.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Kai’s the troll that was with him, but I’m not sure who Neelie or Bendric are.” Nysse’s stomach rumbles, but she ignores it. “Maybe Leo or Rel do.”

**Araatris:** Her sister clutches Nysse’s hand, quiet, as Rhese nods. “They might. Leo’s been surly since they healed his rifle wound, but I can ask him.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress sighs and weakly squeezes Rhoelyn’s hand. “We’ll ask them when they return. They will be coming back soon, won’t they?”

**Araatris:** Rhoelyn nods. “Soon enough. We have time before they make their move, sister.” Her thumb rubs the back of Nysse’s hand. “You must be rested and fed.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse gives them a petulant look. “You’re not going to force me to sleep again, are you? I think I’ve slept enough, but… I wouldn’t mind food…”

**Araatris:** The healer gives her a dim, tender smile. “You would not sleep even if we tried.” She looks at Rhese. “Can you find if Verune has made a new camp?”

**Rhoelyn:** The druid nods, but gives her a pointed look as he pushes to his feet and steps away, activating the hearthstone. Nysse watches them with a frown.

**Araatris:** Rhoe turns back as they get a moment of relative privacy, brushing Nysse’s hair. “Is the pain fading? I fear I have no rations to give you.”

**Rhoelyn:** “I’m better. My body just protests its treatment. As for food, I can wait, but it helps Korran.” Nysse whispers, “Why is Rhese being like that with you?”

**Araatris:** Rhoe glances at her brother before she answers as softly, “My fever has been coming and going. He and Relare have been… insufferable.”

**Araatris:** She sighs softly and strokes Nysse’s hand. “They tried to make me sit aside and let our bondbrother heal you, but I refused. Nysse, I am so sorry.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Sister, why are you sorry? You can’t help your fever.” There’s a confused tilt to her eyes, but she reaches other hand over to Rhoe as well.

**Araatris:** Rhoelyn shakes her head, her brow furrowing. “I did not see the danger to you. I saw the bomb, but I wasn’t careful enough. And you hurt for it.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Rhoelyn,” Nysse scolds, “those visions aren’t something you control. Korran and I have to be more careful. I shouldn’t have asked him to go.”

**Araatris:** Her sister sighs, and her shoulders round. “I want to help. I have been trying to see outside of the fits. I know this gift can keep us all safe.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse squeezes her hand, but falls silent when Rhese stops talking and turns around. He strides back and crouches by the women. “He’s found one.”

**Araatris:** Rhoe nods and releases Nysse’s hand, looking down at her. “Do you feel well enough to travel? Rhese can shift and let you ride.” He smirks.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress blushes. “I’m not sure since you two haven’t even allowed me to sIt up.” Nysse puts her elbows down and pushes herself up.

**Araatris:** The twins exchange sheepish grins as they step back just slightly, watching her with matching careful expressions as she tries to stand.

**Rhoelyn:** Despite the aches, the young woman stands lowering her hand from the tree. Then she takes a limping step forward. “Perhaps… riding would be best.”

**Araatris:** When Rhoe reaches for her, hands starting a dim glow, her brother grabs her wrists and glowers at her wordlessly. She frowns back and sighs.

**Rhoelyn:** “Thank you, Rhoe, but I’ll be better once I settle in at camp and get some food.” Nysse gently pats Rhese’s arm. “Do you mind, beloved?”

**Araatris:** By way of answer, her mate leans down to kiss her cheek and takes her arm, helping her walk until they’ve cleared the low boughs of the pine.

**Rhoelyn:** He steals another kiss before he shifts into a stag and lowers himself to the ground. The huntress blushes again as she settles on Rhese’s back.

**Araatris:** Before long, the three of them gather Faye, Landrie and Leo from the hill nearby. The mage tucks Rhoe’s hand in his. “It’s good to see you up, Nysse.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Yes, I’m doing much better thanks to Rhoelyn. How is your wound? Are you good as new?” The huntress smiles at him. “That was a nasty shot.”

**Araatris:** “Ah, yes.” The mage’s smirk is rueful. “It hurt like fel, but I’m quite in perfect shape, now. Save my poor tunic.” He sighs and points out the hole.

**Rhoelyn:** Laughing, Nysse still manages to look at least a little sympathetic. “Perhaps you can ask Rhoelyn sweetly for her help mending it, Leothir.”

**Araatris:** The blood elf smiles hopefully at his love and pats her hand, tucking it in the crook of his arm. She smiles back. “Perhaps when we have time.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse softly slaps Rhese’s shoulder when he snorts. “No comments from you, surfal.” She sighs, “I’m looking forward to seeing Tsume…”

**Araatris:** Faye shrugs her glaive harness higher on her shoulder. “I would venture to say she’s looking forward to seeing you, too. She was quite agitated.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress grins widely. “She’s like a little sister, so excitable and easily worried. I’m surprised you got her to go with Verune.”

**Araatris:** The stag snorts once more, and Faye chuckles. “It took bribery. Still, I doubt she would have left you with anyone else. Verune was… stern.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Bribe? What was offered? First chance at her favorite dinner?” Nysse raises an eyebrow. Leo guffaws. “More like her very own deer carcass.”

**Araatris:** Rhoe smiles quietly and leans her head on Leo’s shoulder, unaware that Galandrie watches them with an odd expression, nibbling her lip.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress looks a bit horrified. “If she eats all that she’ll-” “Be just fine.” Verune’s interjects as he steps from some dense foliage.

**Araatris:** The druid looks between them calmly. “What of Relare? Did he-” “Find the loud and chatty group easily?” The paladin smirks and steps out by Leo.

**Rhoelyn:** The elder druid scoffs and offers his arm to Nysse. “Let’s get you to your wolf, young woman. She’s about to burst.” She takes the offered help.

**Araatris:** As she slides to the ground, the huntress mumbles under her breath, “Yeah, probably from eating all that deer carcass.” The stag snorts, laughing.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese shifts and takes over from his mentor, grinning. “Well, you’ll see soon enough,” he says mysteriously. “Show us the way, papabear.”

**Araatris:** Behind them, the mage whispers quietly in Rhoe’s ear, but she shakes her head as he leads them to the new camp, carefully concealed in a thicket.

**Rhoelyn:** There’s excited wuffing as they near the green blanketed area. Verune snaps, “Stay, Tsume! Hmph! Such an impatient pup. Didn’t you teach her better?”

**Araatris:** Nysse blushes, but she can’t help her wide grin as they clear the hanging vines and catch sight if the white wolf’s wriggling body and flopping tail.

**Rhoelyn:** She releases Rhese and stumbles forward at a fast limp. “Tsume!” The wolf rolls to her feet and pushes under Nysse’s hands to hold her up.

**Araatris:** Kaerryn straightens from where she was leaning against the tree, grinning to watch the huntress sink to her knees, snuggling her companion.

**Rhoelyn:** Her mate snorts. “So quickly I’m replaced by a wolf.” Nysse smirks over her shoulder. “But you’re the best beast I’ve ever tamed, dalah’surfal.”

**Araatris:** The others look amused as he nods and settles down beside them both. “Without a doubt, my lovely.” Leo teases. “If only he were better trained.”

**Rhoelyn:** “The best ones need very little training to know their mistress’ needs.” Nysse looks pointedly at Rhoelyn. “Sister, how goes your training?”

**Araatris:** The priestess giggles as she looks over at her golden mage. “He is very obedient, thank you, Nysse.” He gasps as she gives him an innocent grin.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese chuckles as he scoots behind Nysse so she can lean against him. “Don’t look so shocked, lordling. You knew the risks.” Leo fights a grin.

**Araatris:** Chuckling to himself, Relare directs, “Galandrie, can I ask you and Kaerryn to go on watch while we get some nourishment? I don’t know ho-”

**Rhoelyn:** “Not hungry at all. I’d be happy to.” She takes one last glance at the couples and hurries to the entrance. Kaerryn smirks, “What bug got up her-”

**Araatris:** “I’ll,” the paladin starts, overloud to cut her off, “get some dinner started.” The warrior, used to the many ways they rein her in, just shrugs.

**Rhoelyn:** Kaerryn joins Landrie as the paladin sets up the fire and pot. When Nysse starts to lean as if to get up, Rhese snakes his arms around her waist.

**Araatris:** Ignoring her weak protests, her mate encourages her to cuddle with him and Tsume until she gives in, and soon they all settle. Rhoe leans forward.

**Araatris:** The mage glances over at her, wary, suddenly, at the golden gleam in her eyes. “Princess?” he questions quietly, but she just shakes her head.

**Rhoelyn:** He murmurs again. “If you’re feeling a fit, you promised to let everyone know.” His emerald eyes flicker over toward her brother and sister.

**Araatris:** While the others chat, she leans close, muttering, “It isn’t a fit, ilais’surfal. There is something…” Her brow furrows as she reaches for his hand.

**Rhoelyn:** Leothir takes her hand. “My dearest princess, your fever isn’t going to go away if you don’t relax and rest.” The mage kisses her temple.

**Araatris:** His silver-haired love strains for a moment longer before she relents, letting out a held breath as her eyes darken once more. He tugs her closer.

**Rhoelyn:** The blood elf’s thoughts wander to his earlier conversation with Rhese and he hugs her tighter. “…you do know how I feel about you, don’t you?”

**Araatris:** Rhoelyn rests her cheek on his shoulder, missing the sober edge to his tone. “My dawn? If you intend to scold me, I have stopped trying to see.”

**Rhoelyn:** “No, I don’t mean to scold you.” Leothir sighs and leans his head so it rests on hers. “I suppose that’s my answer though. You don’t know.”

**Araatris:** It’s a while before she pulls her thoughts back from elsewhen to realize she doesn’t know what the conversation is about. “I… do not know what?”

**Rhoelyn:** The mage stammers in an almost incomprehensible mumble, realizing this conversation isn’t going how he wants, “…h-how I… a-b-bout you…”

**Araatris:** The sudden, mild anxiety in her cool and confident mate’s voice has Rhoelyn straightening to look at him, brow furrowed. “Leothir? What is wrong?”

**Rhoelyn:** The elf’s pale cheeks redden. “N-nothing’s wrong.” He pulls her close so he can bury his face in her silvery hair. “I…IjustwantyoutoknowIloveyou.”

**Araatris:** His love blinks a couple of times before a slow, tender smile spreads across her lips. She giggles and leans by his ear, “I love you, too, my dawn.”

**Rhoelyn:** The tension in his shoulders eases. “Rhese… said that we weren’t fully family until we’re…” He swallows nervously. “Mates was the word he used.”

**Araatris:** The healer’s eyes widen and her cheeks darken in a flush that has nothing to do with her fever, but everything to do with his choice of words.

**Rhoelyn:** “Princess? Did I say something wrong? I must admit that I’m not exactly sure what the differences between mate and wife are…” He whispers urgently.

**Araatris:** Rhoelyn shakes her head ‘no’, brushing her hand down his arm and whispering, “Y-you… only startled me. Those two are the same commitment.”

**Rhoelyn:** He gives her a nervous smile. “That’s… that’s good.” He nods to himself. “Do night elves have a special ceremony? I know Nysse planned a wedding…”

**Araatris:** His love shakes her head a bit. “No ceremony is needed between hearts, my dawn. Our way is simpler; a commitment freely given and accepted.”

**Rhoelyn:** Leothir grasps her hands, silent and thoughtful. His green eyes staring at them as he turns them over and runs his thumbs over them lightly.

**Araatris:** Sensing the weight of his thoughts, she smiles fondly and says, “I have missed this more than I can say, Leothir. Missed us, having you beside me.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Rhoelyn.” He says her name slowly, savoring the sound. “Rhoelyn, I missed this as well. I… I don’t wish to be without you again, sur-surfal.”

**Araatris:** Her amusement at his accented Darnassian word is soft, and she leans in to steal a kiss. “Then I suppose we will need a new place to live.”

**Rhoelyn:** “I suppose we will. Something tells me that Boralus wouldn’t suit us.” The mage steals another kiss with a bright smile. “Does this mean th-”

**Araatris:** He cuts off with a bright blush when he glances up to find Rhese watching them intently. Rhoelyn follows his look, giving her brother a quiet grin.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress has fallen asleep and thus is unable to rescue Leothir. The sin’dorei murmurs, “Is that a good look or bad one? I can’t tell…”

**Araatris:** His love giggles and makes a shooing motion at her brother. “It is a nosy one, my dawn.” Tsume huffs and lifts her head to nibble Rhese’s hand.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese makes a face at Rhoelyn before looking down and rubbing the wolf’s ears. The priestess turns back to Leothir. “Now, what were you saying?”

**Araatris:** He tears his emerald gaze away from the druid, his cheeks pinkening even more. “Ah… well, perhaps it’s a question for when we’re alone, princess.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Oh? Would you like to step outside for a moment?” His love offers, leaning to give him room to stand if he wants. “Not too far, of course.”

**Araatris:** Leo smiles at her and shifts to push to his feet. “A bit of fresh air would do wonders to clear my hear- head!” The mage winces and offers his hand.

**Rhoelyn:** The night elf takes his hand and stands gracefully, letting him guide her from the cave. The huntress’ eyes peek open. “Do you think he’ll ask?”

**Araatris:** Rhese sighs and strokes his hand along her back. “If he doesn’t, I might have to throttle him. Or thank him. I haven’t quite decided which, yet.”

**Rhoelyn:** “If it makes your sister happy, you’ll follow her wishes. You may grump at him either way if it makes you feel better,” Nyssera teases.

**Araatris:** “I’m relieved to have your permission, my lovely,” he says dryly, earning a chuckle from Verune. Faye looks from them to where Leo and Rhoe left.

**Rhoelyn:** The sentinel sighs. “It’ll be a harder road for them, but it is worth it. I’ll support them if it comes to it.” Nysse sits up. “How is he doing?”

**Araatris:** “Nithan?” Faye asks. At the huntress’ nod, she smiles, a more gentle expression than usual. “He is grouchy and overworked. And he loves it.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse laughs. “He has to have something to grouch about. I hope you see him soon. It feels like we’ve been away from loved ones for too long.”

**Araatris:** “Any time away from loved ones is too much,” the sentinel says softly, looking down at her glaive as she cleans one of the keen blades.

**Rhoelyn:** Nodding, Nysse comments more quietly. “You and Nithan should visit soon. The children have grown so much. They started crawling before we left.”

**Araatris:** The sentinel smiles and looks over at the pair and their wolf. “Next leave we get, we shall come and find you. Both children need a toy glaive.”

**Rhoelyn:** “They would love that. I’ll look forward to it.” Nysse smiles fondly then looks toward the exit. “They’ve been out there a while. I wonder…”

**Araatris:** Relare chuckles as he hands her a bowl of warm stew and a spoon. “My brother and his love haven’t had more than a moment of privacy in months.”

**Rhoelyn:** She takes it with mumbled thanks before digging in. Rhese snorts, “I don’t think you’ll have to worry about my mate until she’s done eating…”

**Araatris:** The paladin laughs and goes back to spoon out more food. “The surest way to distract Nyssera from nosiness. Or anything, really.” The others grin.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress blushes and ducks her head. “I’m not that bad…” They settle down and enjoy their quiet dinner, changing out the guard later on.