**Rhoelyn:** “Y-yes, my princess, but-.” “Leothir! Nysse was supposed to call me days ago! She was only going to Stormwind,” Rhoelyn interjects worriedly.

**Araatris:** The mage winces, speaking softly into the hearthstone in his hand as he watches Sarren and Relare disappear into the trees to give him privacy.

**Rhoelyn:** “Maybe she needs time to think. You mentioned Rhese hasn’t returned. It would be like her to want to keep busy, Rhoelyn.” Leothir offers gently.

**Araatris:** “She hasn’t even reached out to confirm that Yami arrived safely.” He can hear how her voice thickens. “Oh, I should have taken him myself.”

**Rhoelyn:** Leo closes his eyes and takes a breath, forcing a smile. “I’m sure the tyke is fine. It’s just a boat ride. How much trouble can he get into?”

**Araatris:** He’s forced to wince once more when he hears her breath hitch on the other side. “Goddess… what if there could have been another shipwreck?”

**Rhoelyn:** The mage speaks quickly, “No, surely not. They would have called you. I’m sure she’s spending some extra time with Yami before the twins come.”

**Araatris:** Her puzzled look is practically drawn for him through her tone of voice. “You… you know about the twins, ilais’surfal? How did you learn that…?”

**Rhoelyn:** “Nysse called me. I think she was bursting to tell someone else. Ah… you should have heard her voice…” He grins broadly and hopes it comes across.

**Araatris:** He knows the ruse works when his love giggles. “Oh. I suppose she was very excited, if nervous. And she has had to be so patient in telling Rhese.”

**Rhoelyn:** Leo chuckles. “He had better return before she explodes from waiting. At this rate, he’ll be the last to know about the miniature fuzzballs.”

**Araatris:** Rhoelyn’s voice is tender. “I am excited for them. Rhese will be so pleased. It is only terrible timing that he is on assignment, just now.”

**Rhoelyn:** “We’ll have to have a talk with Morthis about his timing.” Leothir adds, “Rest easy, princess. I’m sure that you’ll hear from them soon.”

**Araatris:** “Very well, my dawn. I will try not to be so anxious.” She sighs softly. “I admit that I miss them. I am tired and too busy, and everyone is gone.”

**Rhoelyn:** Leo’s voice softens, “I know, Rhoelyn. It’s always hard when they’re gone. When they return we should spend some time together. All of us.”

**Araatris:** For a moment, the stone glows golden at a pair of fingerprint-sized points, and the mage grins at her little trick, setting his fingers atop them.

**Araatris:** “I would like that very much,” she says tenderly. “We have been too much apart, of late.” The ‘we’ has multiple meanings in her tone.

**Rhoelyn:** Leothir grins, warmed more than he’d admit. “Yes, we have, my dearest Rhoelyn. When I finish with my work, I’ll be sure to head straight home.”

**Araatris:** Her voice is rich with silken amusement. “Give me enough warning, ilais’surfal, and I will ensure that I’m there to greet you… properly.” He grins.

**Rhoelyn:** “As you wish. Be well, princess.” “Elune be with you, Leothir.” After her reply, the mage is left staring at a dark stone. “…back to work.”

**Araatris:** The mage brushes a tender hand across the stone as a stand-in for the one who was just on the other side of it before he tucks it away.

**Rhoelyn:** Within the city, Nysse frowns from another alleyway at a building. There’s several nightborne guards in front. She turns, whispering, “Why not?”

**Araatris:** “Because,” Temirra responds quietly, her cowled face toward the doorway, “Those guards are only the first. There are a half dozen more inside.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse rubs her face with her free hand. “They’re so close and I can’t do anything.” The huntress moves into the darkness, trying to calm herself.

**Araatris:** Mirra rests a leather gloved hand on her arm. “Take deep breaths, dear. Patience is difficult, but it will serve them best, right now.”

**Rhoelyn:** “I know that, but… my son is likely with them. It… complicates things.” Nysse releases a tiny sigh. “I can’t wait until the others get here.”

**Araatris:** Nodding, Temirra pats her before stepping back. She looks up at the building beside them. “Speaking of that. I must tell Zali where we are.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse tilts her head up. “Are you going to head up-” The demon huntress leaps up with her powerful legs and grips onto the side, climbing easily.

**Araatris:** Letting her question die, the young night elf sighs and glances around before settling wearily against the wall. She reaches into her pack.

**Rhoelyn:** She pulls out a ration and opens it. She draws up her knees and nibbles on the bar. Nysse mumbles softly to no one, “I’d kill for a piece of fruit…”

**Araatris:** As she waits in the darkness, something skitters further back in the alley. A patrol approaches the guarded building across from her hiding place.

**Rhoelyn:** Distracted from the noise by the guards, she leans forward, her food forgotten in her grasp. She frowns as they pause at the door and head inside.

**Araatris:** Somewhere deep within that building, Rhese chuckles. “You really have the worst plans, Lash. Try again.” The demon hunter sighs. “Fine, fine.”

**Rhoelyn:** “How small can your little man make himself? If he can turn into an ant maybe they’ll think he escaped and loosen their guard on us?” He offers.

**Araatris:** “A little bit of chaos?” The druid looks through the glowing field of magic that separates his prison from Yami’s. “What do you think, alei?”

**Rhoelyn:** Yami sighs, “An’da, I can’t make myself that small, but…” The boy moves to the back corner and changes his coloring to match the shadows.

**Araatris:** Rhese grins. Lash just watches him, eyes going up under his stitched leather blindfold. “Aaaand… where’s the trick, squirt?” Yami giggles.

**Rhoelyn:** “You blend in perfectly, alei. Good job. Now we just wait and see.” The druid watches the shadow proudly. “Maybe that’ll serve your purpose, Lash.”

**Araatris:** The demon hunter makes a sour face. “This plan is going to fail fast if those fel nightborn have spectral sight,” he grumbles under his breath.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese raises an eyebrow. “I thought only demon hunters had that. Isn’t that the entire reason for…” He points at his eyes implying their state.

**Araatris:** “Close enough, kid,” Lash chuckles. “But I don’t know fel about what these… unfriendly cousins of ours have gained. We’re going to find out.”

**Rhoelyn:** A group of soldiers talk softly as they enter the room. They look about the cells without speaking to them, pausing on Yami’s and frowning deeply.

**Araatris:** The leader growls, clenching a fist as she spins on Rhese and Lash. “Where is the other? The one they want!” Magic flares around her hand.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese shakes his head, frowning. “He’s not there? I swore he was just sleeping.” Lash’s felfire gaze flashes he looks about. “I don’t see him…”

**Araatris:** She turns to the others with her, biting out, “Go! Search the district! The youngling can’t have gotten far.” As they rush off, she watches Rhese.

**Rhoelyn:** “What did you do?” She snaps. The druid raises both eyebrows in surprise. “I didn’t do anything. He’s always been an independent kid.”

**Araatris:** “You think your silver tongue fools me, wretched, savage thing.” She clenches her fist, and the cage he’s in crackles, shocking him.

**Rhoelyn:** The druid cries out. For a moment, she smirks, then she glances back at the “empty” cell and growls again. “I’ll deal with you later.”

**Araatris:** Releasing the spell, she turns and stalks from the room, leaving him to recover with huffing breaths. “Are y-” Lash barely starts before he nods.

**Rhoelyn:** “It’s… It’s time for your crazy plan. We won’t have long. What do you have?” Rhese speaks softly between breaths. Lash glances toward the door.

**Araatris:** With a brief nod to himself, he looks up at the floating ring near the top of his cage. “Hold your breath, you two. This is going to be rough.”

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese and Yami takes deep breaths and the druid nods. His gaze goes to the ceiling back down to the demon hunter as he concentrates.

**Araatris:** Lash slips free the black leather that covers his fel-glowing eye sockets and clenches it in his fist as that ruined gaze flares and then explodes.

**Rhoelyn:** The ceiling crumbles in a blast of felfire. Dust blinds them and small rubble pelts them. The demon hunter leaps upwards, out of the cell.

**Araatris:** At the top of his leap, a pair of large, leathery wings unfurl from his back, and he stretches out a hand to pull his large glaive from the air.

**Rhoelyn:** He swings the blade down, opening the other cells. Lash starts to lower his arm when the druid and his son shift and fly out, passing his hand.

**Araatris:** The older man darts after them, leaping up the rubble piled against the back wall and jumping off from the top. In the ally, Nysse gapes, paling.

**Rhoelyn:** “No no no…Come this way! Please!” Nysse hisses urgently. She swings about and leaps to her feet, rushing to the wall. Nysse begins climbing.

**Araatris:** Halfway up, a hand clamps on her ankle and yanks her roughly back. “You! What did you do?! Where are they?!” A nightborn woman shouts at her.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse’s grip slips and she tumbles into the woman’s arms. “W-what are you talking about? W-who?” The suddenness confuses the young elf.

**Araatris:** The stranger, dark-skinned and pale-haired, wears odd, arcane armor. Power crackles around her hand before she shoves it against Nysse’s shoulder.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress shrieks, trying to jerk away as her shoulder feels like it’s on fire. The woman continues, “I know you did something. Tell me!”

**Araatris:** Another pair of people, more armored guards by the look of them, rush up behind her, stopping short. She pulls back her hand to let Nysse speak.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse mentally curses the tears running down her cheeks. “I d-don’t know. The… the building exploded and I couldn’t see any-anything…”

**Araatris:** The woman snorts, an indelicate sound, and shoves her magic against Nysse once more. “You expect me to believe you just happened to be here?”

**Rhoelyn:** Screaming again, she frantically shakes her head. “I… I was looking for a friend, but I was w-waiting. I didn’t have a p-p-plan to get in…”

**Araatris:** As Nysse shies away, two things happen simultaneously. A black form streaks by her, wind rushing as it slams into the woman, and …

**Rhoelyn:** A small body landing next to her, snarling. A moment later it’s followed by another gust as a large figure with wings slashes a large weapon.

**Araatris:** Before Nysse has a chance to do more than start to process the chaos around her, two nightborn are dead. A fourth figure drops on the last.

**Rhoelyn:** Overwhelmed, Nysse covers her face and tries to slow her breathing and trembling. After a long minute, another pair of hands gently tugs hers down.

**Araatris:** Rhese’s worried eyes are the first thing that she sees as she looks up, and his beloved voice is the same as he says, “Surfal? Nysse, are you hurt?”

**Rhoelyn:** She shakes her head, her throat closing. Nysse sobs and fresh tears run down her cheeks as she throws her arms around him and buries her face.

**Araatris:** The druid wraps his arms around her tightly, cradling her against him. “We have to move,” Lash dares to interject, Mirra and Yami beside him.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse raises her head and nods despite the tears, looking up at the roof next to them. She speaks hoarsely, “Head on up. I’ll have to climb.”

**Araatris:** Rhese presses a quick kiss to her lips before he tugs her to her feet, rather physically possessive about it all. Yami says, “I’ll help.”

**Rhoelyn:** She smiles gently, her hand still in Rhese’s. “I’m fine.” Nysse rubs her eyes. “I can make it up.” Pulling away, she grasps onto the wall.

**Araatris:** “Miiin’da,” the boy whines, his shape flowing to one of the Pandaren Hozen. He grabs her with one arm, as willing to manhandle her as his father.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse barely has time to gasp before her son is climbing up the wall and she has no choice but to hang onto him. Rhese shifts into a raven.

**Araatris:** Lash takes just a moment to grin at Mirra and brush a hand along her arm before they both turn to the wall, leaping up after the others.

**Rhoelyn:** Yami sets Nysse down at the top, shifting and grinning. “You always try to do too much, min’da.” Zali huffs and stretches his neck toward Mirra.

**Araatris:** The huntress takes a deep breath before she wraps her arms around her boy. “I’m so glad you’re safe!” Rhese rests a hand on her shoulder.

**Rhoelyn:** Mirra smiles and ushers them toward Zali. “You all should head back to our meeting point. We’ll stay on the move and meet you shortly.”

**Araatris:** Rhese nods and helps Nysse and then Yami onto the drake’s back. “Be careful, you two. Someone in this mess is gunning for us in particular.”

**Rhoelyn:** Lash smirks, “Don’t worry about us, kid. They only got us before because we split up. Get back with your friends.” Zali jumps into the air.

**Araatris:** Mirra smiles and waves at Rhese as he leaps after the drake, his form folding into the stormcrow. Once they’re gone, she turns to Rhian.

**Rhoelyn:** “How do you feel like hunting for answers, dear?” She smiles. Lash chuckles. “Something tells me that they’re not going to miss us for a few.”

**Araatris:** He stretches out a gloved hand to her, and she laces her fingers through his. “Besides, sweeting, we have to get Yoz. I can’t believe you left him.”

**Rhoelyn:** The demon huntress makes a face at him. “Only for a moment. I wanted to get you first, but then you made a mess.” Her tone is light, teasing.

**Araatris:** “It is my specialty.” He tugs her hand to his lips, unrepentant as he kisses her knuckles. “Let’s go see what other messes I can make.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Yes, let’s do…” Temirra tugs him after her. As they cross the city, the protodrake lands with the others at their camp. Yami jumps down.

**Araatris:** As Nysse hops down after him, Rhese shifts back a few feet up, landing lightly in the grass. He catches himself with a hand to the ground.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress smiles at her father. “They have been retrieved. Mirra and Rhian are going on foot, but they can travel more easily than we can.”

**Araatris:** “An’nui!” Yami calls his name but goes over to claim his father’s hand as the druid straightens. “You should have seen. I really helped!”

**Rhoelyn:** “I’m sure you did.” Sarren tugs him to the side as Rhese walks up behind Nysse. The two brothers talk to the side only pausing to wave at them.

**Araatris:** As the hunter tugs his reluctant grandson away, he also snares Kaerryn’s arm. She grouches, “I don’t even get to say ‘hi’, scruffy? C’mon…!”

**Rhoelyn:** Sarren smiles and continues to pull her away. Nysse turns as the druid rests his hands on her shoulders. “I’m so glad that you’re alright, Rhese.”

**Araatris:** He smiles gently and leans down to steal a kiss. “I’m glad you’re alright, too, lovely. When I heard you scream, I thought my heart would stop.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse blushes, stealing another kiss of her own. “She caught me off guard. I was trying to climb up to the roof after I saw your escape…”

**Araatris:** He tenderly gathers her into his arms. “You took such a risk coming, my lovely. What would I have done if we’d been too far to hear you?”

**Rhoelyn:** “I had my dagger and Mirra was nearby. I would have been fine.” Nysse rests her head on his shoulder. “It was worth it to find you, Rhese.”

**Araatris:** The druid holds her tight, pressing his face into the crook of her neck. His voice is muffled when he admits, “I missed you, dalah’surfal. I was…”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse reaches up and runs her hand through his hair. “I’m here. We’re back together.” She leans back to look into his eyes with a nervous smile.

**Araatris:** Before she can speak, he leans forward and kisses her again, more tenderly. Lingering. He just holds her tightly.

**Rhoelyn:** “Rhese… I… need to t-tell you something.” Nysse clears her throat. “You know how I was sick before? It continued, and R-rhoe told me I was-”

**Araatris:** “Expecting?” he interrupts, nuzzling her neck. “Maybe expecting twins that your oldest son is incredibly excited about?” He smiles against her skin.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress flushes brightly. “He… he told you? I’m glad that he’s so excited though. I… what do you think?” She asks sheepishly.

**Araatris:** Rhese laughs softly and squeezes her even tighter against him before he finally raises his head to smile brightly at his mate. “Elune…”

**Rhoelyn:** She ducks her head shyly. “I was really surprised. I’m not even showing yet…” She trails off, mumbling, “Rhoe had this armor made for me…”

**Araatris:** Her mate releases her to cup her cheeks in his hands, smiling. “Look at me, lovely. I think I might burst!”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse gazes at his toothly, joyous grin. Tentatively, her own smile widens. “Rhese… oh, Elune, I’ve been waiting to tell you for weeks…”

**Araatris:** He kisses her again, brushing her hair back. “I’m sorry to have kept you waiting, my lovely. Right now – since Yami told me – I’m just amazed.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Amazed? I’m not sure I understand.” Her lips quirk into a confused frown, but before it settles Rhese leans in for another kiss. “Yes, amazed.”

**Araatris:** “More family,” he says softly, his kiss tender. He pulls away a bit to rest a gentle hand on her stomach. “Beautiful babies that are you and me.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse places her hand over his. “Can you feel them like Rhoe can?” She bites her lip. “I wish I could, but I have to wait.”

**Araatris:** The druid’s hand glows faintly as his golden eyes taken on a verdant tint and a faraway look. “There’s… you’re rich with life.” He grins.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse smiles tenderly and then giggles, “Rhoelyn already bought their first outfits. I can’t wait to show you.” Her eyes widen suddenly.

**Araatris:** “Wh-wh-what was that?!” She practically squeaks it as Rhese pulls his hand away. She replaces his with both of her own, staring down.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese’s chuckles explode into laughter when she looks up and asks anxiously, “Is something wrong with- Rhese!”

**Araatris:** The druid calms enough to smilingly tell her, “That was your babies. If I help, I think you have more than enough spirit magic to sense them.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Really? But I don’t have…” Nysse stops as he rests his hand over hers. “You have Korran. You’re connected in your own way.” Rhese explains.

**Araatris:** At her astounded look, he leans in and kisses the corner of her mouth. “Dalah’surfal…” It’s all he says, his smile warm as he considers his mate.

**Rhoelyn:** Tears shimmer in her eyes as Nysse slips her hands from under his and throws her arms around his neck. “Our babies…!” She kisses him.

**Araatris:** Rhese tugs her against him so tightly that only her tiptoes reach the ground, and the kiss goes on for a while until a shouted “GET A ROOM!”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse pulls away, crimson. Rhese keeps her tucked against his side and grins unrepentantly. “Are you ready to join the others, lovely?”

**Araatris:** Rubbing at her warm cheeks, she nods. As if watching for that cue, Yami darts over to them, wrapping his arms around her waist. Rhese chuckles.

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress hugs him and strokes his hair. “Now… Little light, how did you get all the way out here when you’re supposed to be with Rhoelyn?”

**Araatris:** His dark eyes drop, and he ducks his head guiltily. “I… I told min’nu that you wanted me to come to you in Stormwind. I’m sorry I lied, min’da.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse freezes and gazes at Rhese. “R-rhoelyn might think that I’m in Stormwind waiting impatiently for you…” She looks just as guilty as Yami.

**Araatris:** The druid winces. “You kept her in the dark to avoid the panic, didn’t you?” Nysse and Yami both just look more guilty. “Cenarius’ Beard…”

**Rhoelyn:** “Maybe we should call her and let her know we’re all safe and that I met up with you after all? Do you think that’d help?” Nysse asks softly.

**Araatris:** Leothir steps up to them, looking pleased with himself, “On that count, I did some damage control for you, already. She called a few hours ago.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress grimaces. “Was she very upset?” The mage snorts. “Terribly! You never called to let her know that you or Yami got there safely.”

**Araatris:** Nysse cringes, “I… didn’t know what to tell her that wouldn’t give it away…” Leo gives her a droll look. “It’s a good thing you have me, isn’t it?”

**Rhoelyn:** Yami tugs Nysse’s hand. “We should call min’nu then. I don’t want her to worry.” He releases her hand to open her pouch with the stone.

**Araatris:** The huntress squirms as he rifles in her pouch. “Isn’t it late for her?” Shaking his head, he pulls the stone free. “She’s always up this late.”

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese plucks the stone from Yami’s fingers. “You’d better let me do that, alei. She’ll be distracted if I do the calling.” The druid grins.

**Araatris:** Standing not far from them, Kaerryn folds her arms and grins. “Hey, fuzzbutt. Tell her I said ‘hi’ and ‘you go, girl!’” She glances at Leo.

**Rhoelyn:** The druid snorts. “I’ll… tell her something.” He activates the stone and immediately Rhoelyn answers, “Nysse! Is everything oka-”

**Araatris:** “Take a breath, sis.” Rhese can’t help but grin at the glowing stone. “She’s right here and just fine.” “Oh! Rhese!” comes her happy response.

**Rhoelyn:** “Hi min’nu!” Yami bounces. The druid laughs. “Hello, little light. Brother, have you and Nysse had any time to talk?” Rhoelyn asks smoothly.

**Araatris:** Rhese slants Nysse a warm look. “Yes. We have.” There’s just a brief pause before she says, “So? Will no one tell me whether or not he fell over?”

**Rhoelyn:** Yami giggles. “When I told him, min’nu, he thought he was delirious.” Nysse raises both eyebrows and looks at Rhese questioningly.

**Araatris:** As Rhoelyn’s giggle comes through the stone, the druid smirks. “Well, it wasn’t the best timing our boy chose. I had other things on my mind.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Did you forget to let Nysse speak when you saw her?” The priestess hazards a guess. The huntress’ cheeks pinken and she squeaks, “Rhoe!”

**Araatris:** The priestess tsks over the comm, drawing the implied conclusion. “Really, brother. You are incorrigible. Nysse, you must simply bite him when h-”

**Rhoelyn:** “N-no! But… thank you.” Nysse stammers as Leo laughs silently on Relare’s shoulder. “Rhese and I are truly overjoyed about the little ones.”

**Araatris:** “We all are, my sister. Elune ethar ishnu’ah.” Rhoe says, a smile in her voice. “Yes,” Rhese responds, “She’s been generous to us all, hasn’t she?”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse smiles tenderly, resting a hand on her stomach and looking at everyone. “Yes, she has.” The huntress lays her head on Rhese’s shoulder.

**Araatris:** There is a noise in the background of the stone, and the priestess sighs softly. “I have news, I fear. Leothir will be disappointed when I call.”

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese and Nysse share a look and the huntress asks worriedly. “Sister, what’s wrong? Please don’t tell me there’s been another invasion.”

**Araatris:** “Not precisely. The Legionfall forces have gained a foothold on the Broken Shore.” Weariness is evident in her tone. “I’m to go to the field.”

**Rhoelyn:** The night elven woman’s eyes narrow in concern at the stone. “Rhoelyn, are you up to that? You’ve been working ragged the last few weeks.”

**Araatris:** “It must be done,” the priestess says softly. “The fighting is fierce, there, and the field hospital is undermanned. Don’t be concerned, sister.”

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese rests a hand on Nysse’s shoulder. “Try to remember to take care of yourself, Rhoe. You won’t help anyone if you’re out on your feet.”

**Araatris:** “Yes, brother,” comes the meek answer, but there is warmth in her voice. “Leothir and I had hoped we could all gather when you got back. Alas…”

**Rhoelyn:** The druid grins, “We’ll get together soon, but work and missions come first. Don’t worry, sis, we’ll stay in touch.” Yami raises on his toes.

**Araatris:** “Min’nu, don’t forget to eat your dinner, even when you get busy!” he orders. Rhoelyn giggles. “Yes, little light. I will try to remember.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse chuckles. “We’ll call you again soon, sister. Get some rest before you head to the Broken Shore.” She strokes Yami’s hair and hugs him.

**Araatris:** They can hear her wince in her voice. “Well. We leave tonight, and there is much to prepare. I… will sleep as best I can on the journey.”

**Araatris:** Rhoelyn continues, “Will all of you return to Winterspring, next? Nysse, you must be sure to rest sufficiently. Do you need more herbs? I can-”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress ducks her head. “I will, sister, but I’m fine with the herbs I have. I’m much better. As for Winterspring…” She looks at Rhese.

**Araatris:** The druid shakes his head, not that his sister can see. “Not yet, Rhoe. I think there’s more work for now. These two will… stay here.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse narrows her eyes at her mate, watching him cautiously. Rhoelyn sighs, “It can’t be helped I suppose. Call me if you need anything, sister.”

**Araatris:** Rhese winces and brushes a hand through his hair as his mate answers, “I will, Rhoe. Don’t worry about me, okay? Just stay safe on the Shore.”

**Rhoelyn:** “Of course. May Elune watch over you.” The stone goes dark as they finish their goodbyes. Nysse tucks it away and stares silently at Rhese.

**Araatris:** Leothir sighs dejectly and comments, “There goes my hope of meeting her back at the house, soon.” Relare pats his shoulder. “Hang in, there.”

**Rhoelyn:** The mage’s stone lights up. “My princess calls. Time to get my disappointing news.” Relare smiles. “You’ll just have to steal her away later.”

**Araatris:** “I am rather accomplished at that.” His playful grin for his brother turns decidedly more nervous when he glances toward Nysse and Rhese.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese sighs and rubs his face. The huntress smiles at Yami and kisses the top of his head. “Why don’t you go help an’nui feed the wolves?”

**Araatris:** “Okay, min’da!” The boy darts off into the trees, and Leothir follows after, his hearthstone lighting. Nysse turns to her mate, hands on her hips.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse presses her lips together. “You were serious, weren’t you? You’re thinking about sending me to Stormwind with Yami while you stay here.”

**Araatris:** The druid sighs and takes her arm, tugging her reluctantly into a walk with him along the cliff and away from Rel and Kaerryn. “More than thinking…”

**Rhoelyn:** “Rhese Silverwing, I’m not going home until you do.” She scowls at him and shakes her head. “I can’t believe that you’d ever think that I’d-“

**Araatris:** He rests his big hand over her own, cutting her off. “My lovely, I can’t believe that you’d ever think I’d want you and our unborn babies here.”

**Rhoelyn:** She stops mid-step. “What did you say? I am perfectly capable of protecting myself and our babies.” Nysse pulls her hand back to her belly.

**Araatris:** Rhese pauses and sighs, turning to her with a contrite face. “Nysse, I don’t doubt your skill, my lovely. There are… things you don’t know, here.”

**Rhoelyn:** Crossing her arms over her chest, Nysse shifts her weight onto one hip. “Really? And what will you tell me that’s going to change my mind?”

**Araatris:** He faces her seriously, cupping her elbows and looking in her eyes. “Surfal, the demons are after our son. You have to get him away from here.”

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse bites her lip as her stance softens. “An’da can take him back, Rhese. I need to be with you. When Morthis told me he couldn’t reach you…”

**Araatris:** “I knew you would be so worried.” Her mate draws her into his arms, cradling her against him. “Nysse, I don’t trust anyone but you to protect Yami.”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress murmurs, “…you’re doing it again.” She grips his tunic. “I know you trust an’da, but… you’ll do anything to get me to go back.”

**Araatris:** He wilts, going so far as to sink to his knees in front of her, resting his cheek against her belly. “Not anything. But many things. Nysse…”

**Rhoelyn:** She looks at the sky and takes a deep breath. “Rhese… if I go back, how will I know you’ll be safe? If anything happe-” Her throat closes.

**Araatris:** Rhese squeezes his arms around her waist tighter. For a long while, he says nothing. “Cenarius’ Beard,” he curses, growling wordlessly.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse sniffles and rests her hand on his head. “What am I supposed to do? I don’t want to argue with you. Am I supposed to just go home and wait?”

**Araatris:** He shifts, looking up. “Please let m-” A guttural sound interrupts, and he surges to his feet, dragging Nysse behind him as the spell coalesces.

**Rhoelyn:** The portal explodes open forcefully. Nysse gasps, grabbing Rhese’s arm to stay upright. “Wha-?” An eredar steps out and smiles. “Hello, Rhese.”

**Araatris:** “You!” The druid bares his teeth as he nudges Nysse with the hand against her. “What, Ruuma, you just couldn’t bear to go without my jokes?”

**Rhoelyn:** The huntress bolts toward the others at the second nudge. “I knew if I found you, I’d find everything else I needed.” Ruuma raises her hand.

**Araatris:** “The only thing here for you is pain.” Rhese shifts, his form folding into the sleek, silver cat even as he moves, launching himself at her.

**Rhoelyn:** A bolt flies from the eredar’s hand, delaying her leap away. Rhese’s claws sink into armor and flesh as someone shouts frantically behind him.

**Araatris:** “Min’da!” Ruuma’s scream of pain ends by turning into a laugh, and even as she shoves against Rhese’s attempt to maul her, her hands glow.

**Rhoelyn:** Nysse cradles Yami in her arms tightly. “It’s alright, s-sweetie. I have you. I won’t let go.” The boy tugs at her sleeve, wailing, “Miiin’daaa!”

**Araatris:** She doesn’t answer his cry, only slumps forward, her eyes slipping closed. “No!” His form rippling, he catches his mother as she falls.

**Rhoelyn:** The teenage Yami lays her down, checking her for injuries. “Uncle Relare, something’s wrong with min’da!” Ruuma grins and kicks Rhese.

**Araatris:** The cat yowls as he tumbles back, and she clenches her fist, the magic there flaring. Crying out in pain, the druid reverts and hits his knees.

**Rhoelyn:** A tall, brutish eredar with large, thick spines arching up from his back, steps through the portal. His path toward the boy is halted by Relare.

**Araatris:** Sarren’s arrows whistle past Rhese’s shoulder as two in quick succession fly toward Ruuma. She whips a hand up in an arc of green flame.

**Rhoelyn:** Ruuma catches the first in the felfire, burning it, but the second arrow sinks into the fleshy part of her shoulder. “Ah! Muuzeran, get him!”

**Araatris:** The beefy eredar swings his cudgeol at Relare, sneering. “Move, twig,” his voice is deep and rumbling, and his steps leave fel scars on the dirt.

**Rhoelyn:** The paladin doesn’t bother parrying and instead ducks under the blow, swinging his hammer at Muuzeran’s knee. “The nice thing about twigs is…”

**Araatris:** The hammer connects, but the demon’s joint doesn’t give. He laughs, rumbling the awful sound through his massive chest, and snags Relare’s arm.

**Rhoelyn:** His arm snaps and the blood elf screams. A fireball hits the massive demon’s side and Muuzeran tosses Relare aside as Leo readies another.

**Araatris:** Kaerryn rushes in to take Relare’s place, her big axe gripped across her body. “Come on, big guy. Pick on someone my size.” She sneers.

**Rhoelyn:** Yami bites his lip and shakes his mother as he watches the battle. “Please wake up. Please!” Nysse groans softly, but her eyes are still closed.

**Araatris:** The teen hunches over her protectively, confused by her stillness. “Min’da, please. I-I need you. I don’t know what to do!” He looks over at Rhese.

**Rhoelyn:** He suddenly reaches for her pouch and pulls the hearth stone from it. He stares between it and her indecisively. “I’m sorry, min’da.”

**Araatris:** The boy triggers the stone and shoves it back in her pouch before he scrambles to his feet and rushes toward his father. The magic soon sings.

**Rhoelyn:** Rhese looks up noticing Yami then Nysse’s fading form. “Alei!” The voidling’s feline form leaps, slamming into the smaller eredar woman.

**Araatris:** Ruuma shrieks as she falls, Yami’s teeth sinking into her shoulder near Sarren’s arrow. He shouts, “No!” as the druid shifts and stumbles forward.

**Rhoelyn:** The teen jumps off Ruuma and bounds over to Rhese, blurring into his night elven form to support him. “An’da! Are you alright? I sent min’da-”

**Araatris:** Kaerryn slams into the voidling from the side, sending the both of them tumbling as the damaged demon, Muuzeran, stomps after them. Leo mutters.

**Rhoelyn:** Fire rains down on the brute, halting his progress as he throws his arm up. “Muuzeran, hurry up and grab him!” He shoots a dark look at Ruuma.

**Araatris:** The smaller eredar straightens, damaged and bleeding and at the mouth of the yawning portal. “Stay away from the tyke, monstrosity!” Leo growls.

**Rhoelyn:** Kaerryn keeps Yami tucked behind her. “What poncy boy said! You’re not getting him.” Muuzeran steps forward, rumbling. “This is unnecessary.”

**Araatris:** “It’s very necessary if you think you’re taking my grandson.” Sarren growls, the wolves darting to Yami’s side. “What is your purpose, demon?”

**Rhoelyn:** Ruuma answers, “We need him to create a portal. That creature is no more your grandson than those wolves-” She breaks off, looking around.

**Araatris:** “Ah, they finally made it.” The demon smiles despite her wounds, and Leothir cries out as a blade slices across his back. Relare struggles up.

**Rhoelyn:** “Leo!” The paladin is still healing himself as another eredar steps up with two felguard. “Really, Ruuma. How much of a mess can you make?”

**Araatris:** One of the felguard reaches down to grab the mage’s arm, pulling him up with a grunt. “You’re late, Halaxiz. They are more capable than most.”

**Rhoelyn:** He snorts, examining the mage. “They seem rather average to me.” Rhese limps to Yami and tugs him close. Halaxiz says, “Ah! There he is.”

**Araatris:** The third eredar looks between the other two, lips pulling up around his teeth in a threatening sneer. “Play time is over. Get them.”