#meheanas

[devsash]

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

[tindomielsilverthorn]

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. 

[tindomielsilverthorn]

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**

[devsash]

Mehe dances with Anas at their wedding.

[devsash]

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.

[tindomielsilverthorn]

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.

[devsash]

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.

[tindomielsilverthorn]

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.