#Tenwu of the Red Smoke

[artistgem]

Mini little thingy going over the 3 Pandaren variants that are partially aquatic: the Krasarang, Wandering Isle (the most adapted) and Kun-Lai.

Tenwu, Chen and Taran are showcasing their abilities here 🖤

For context: I have a Pandaren regional variation headcanon. I did a infodump on the mainland variants which you can read below. And also one for the Wandering Isle variants which I got help from Gill with.

[sirdolraan]

The Importance of Understanding your Gear

(( DWC May 2024, @daily-writing-challenge, Day 5, Complication/Spicy, CW: mantids get blown up ))

"Alright, draw them in Spiru, we're ready!" Tenwu-of-the-Red-Smoke (cogs above why did he insist on the entire title every time, it was even in her head now) shouted, putting the last barrel of blastbrew in place, and motioning Fei Li into position.

It was a simple plan, perfect for dealing with this particular threat. A massive swarm of young mantid, all instinct, no intelligence, but a grave danger nonetheless had been spotted making its way to the wall, on a path that would surely take it right through the nearby outpost where the Shado-pan's injured were recovering. Tenwuoftheredsmoke (nope, not better without punctuation) and Fei Li had volunteered to handle the situation, with a little help from their newest ally. Lure the bugs into a kill zone, then blow them up with a few dozen barrels of blast brew, eliminating the threat without further friendly casualties. Spiru exhaled, then began to channel the mists, waving them over the piles of meat she'd gathered from the local wildlife. The scent, combined with a little bit of magic, would draw them in like troggs to a shiny rock. She directed the vapors over the hill, to where the swarm was beginning to pass. Within moments, the ground began to rumble as the newly born mantid, ravenous and mindless in their violence, changed course and began bearing down towards Spiru. She jumped back several times, maintaining her channel to lead them right over the barrels.

"Perfect, just like that!" Tenwu-of-the-crimson-cloud (No one said she couldn't have fun with it) declared. "Firecracker, do your thing!"

Fei-Li giggled ominously as she called fire to her hands, then launched it at the blast brew barrels. The blazing flames splashed over the barrels... and did nothing besides blacken them.

The three blinked, then looked at each other. Fei Li made an angry sound, and launched more flames, causing little more than black patches to appear on the barrels. "What is going on?!" Tenwu-of-the-confused-visage demanded, "why aren't those barrels burning?"

"Are you certain they are the correct barrels? There were many similar types among the supplies," Spiru ventured.

"No, these are definitely the blastbrew barrels!" Tenwu-the-increasingly-concerned answers, as Fei Li rapid fired fire spells at the barrels in frustration. "I don't understand, unless..... oh no. These are the reinforced barrels! We need to pierce them to expose the brew to the flame!"

"Well then," Spiru said, summoning healing mists to surround Tenwu-of-the-Red-Smoke (He could have that one this was going to be dangerous), "I will cover you as best I can."

Tenwu-of-the-Red-Smoke gripped his sai, and sighed. "Sometimes I wish I wasn't the greatest. HEEEEEEYAH!" he shouted, leaping into the swarm that was beginning to cover the barrels and meat, slashing and kicking his way through to the barrels, Spiru surrounding him with a cocoon of mists and ki to protect him. The mantid swarmed over him, excited at the prospect of moving prey, but among the chittering, the spray of blast brew that emerged from the pile was unmistakable. As Fei Li began to laugh maniacally, charging a massive pyroblast to ignite the brew, Spiru engaged the magical gems in her boots, and pulled Tenwu-the-covered-in-mantid-guts free from the swarm. He had a front row seat as he was pulled towards Spiru even as the pyroblast flew in the other direction, missing him by inches to land within, and finally get the reaction Fei Li had been promised. The firey inferno that resulted quickly spread throughout the area, searing and burning the mantid, leaving only a scattered few to disperse, far less of a threat now without the rest of the clutch.

"FINALLY! Oh, I -needed- that," Fei-Li cheered, jumping up and down and laughing at the firey inferno she'd unleashed. Tenwu-of-the-red-smoke coughed a bit at the decidedly -not- red smoke that was beginning to fill the air, and motioned for the trio to return to base camp.

[actualpanda]

Things to Come - Taoshi (Short Story)

I haven't forgotten about the second part of Taoshi's story. This is something I came up with in the meantime...and something canon should have given us but didn't.

...

The downpour that settled over Townlong descended from the mountains with almost no warning. The first indication that Taoshi had of the onslaught of the elements was when a single, small raindrop hit the pan she was scrubbing out. The first course of the night had been served, and most of the Shado-Pan veterans retired to their tents, save those who were assigned first watch.

The next thing Taoshi knew, she was soaked to the bone and on the wrong side of camp from her own tent. Blowing water from her snout, the Wu Kao rogue felt like a raincloud, considering the sheer amount of water that dripped from her uniform. The leather had soaked through in seconds…normally resistant to the rain, it stood no chance in the height of the storm.

Lightning flickered against the bulk of the distant mountains of Kun-Lai, and the world grew loud for a moment. The torches about camp that had been set out for the evening were sputtering, a few snuffed outright by the sheets of driving water and wind.

“Taoshi, over here!” She heard a voice through the cacophony of water striking the tents around her, and looked to see a tent flap raised slightly. Two sets of deep blue eyes and one of gold met her own, and there was a red-furred paw raised out to reach one of hers. “Inside, quickly!”

She didn’t waste a moment sprinting into the tent. When her eyes adjusted to the low light, she made out the great belly of Lao-Chin, who was oddly dry. This had to be his tent, yes? Lao-Chin smiled readily. “Here, get that soaked leather off and I’ll get you a towel or four.”

She wondered what he meant by four for a moment, then realized that she was simply that wet. Her undershirt was freezing now that she was in the shelter of the tent, and as soon as she removed the clammy metal and leather uniform, she shivered. “Thanks, folks.” She muttered through chattering teeth. Lao-Chin hung her uniform on a long pole and offered her a blue towel. As for the other two who were here…she made out Tenwu easily enough. As for the other figure…the moment that a light was struck within the tent, the breath was sucked out of her lungs. Some of that was embarrassment.

“My Lord. You have my apologies; I didn’t realize that was you.” Taoshi bowed after wringing a huge amount of water out of her forearms.

“At ease, brave Taoshi.” Taran Zhu bowed in reply, and a rare smile lifted the corners of his lips upwards. “You look like you’ve had yourself a good and proper soaking.”

“I most certainly have, my lord.” Taoshi chuckled abashedly. “More’s the pity, I took a good long bath this morning…”

“If nothing else, you’ll be squeaky clean for sure.” Tenwu piped up. “You didn’t get any crushed quilen powder on you earlier, did you?”

“No fighting for me today.” Taoshi confirmed with a shake of her head. “Two patrols about camp, however.”

Taran Zhu seemed to nod. “It’s been quiet the last few days. I made the trip from the Monastery today to check up on matters.”

Taoshi began using the next towel she had to dry off her undershirt, which no longer clung to her stomach and chest once she’d done so. “My lord, would it be impertinent to ask what you found?”

“Not at all.” Taran Zhu inclined his head. “The fact of the matter is that the garrison in Townlong has served its purpose. The Sha of Hatred has been destroyed, the mantid are in full withdrawal, the mogu in decline, and an operation to the South in the Dread Wastes may soon rid us of the Sha of Fear.”

“That is good to hear.” Lao-Chin murmured from where he sat down. Tenwu soon joined him and the huge brewmaster at once wrapped an arm about the much smaller rogue’s shoulders. “I had a few encounters with Sha-possessed mantid. Or Sha-influenced mantid…” He shuddered. “They’re worse than usual when those foul things are pushing them forward.”

“After Tai Ho made his report, and after our efforts drove the Mogu from the Temple of Niuzao, I spoke with the August Celestial himself.” Taran stated. “Niuzao gave me his blessing and a number of other items of information. Some of what he said…” Taran Zhu sighed. “Some of that troubles me very greatly. I’ll tell the order at large before I return to the Monastery.”

“I hope the rain clears up before you go, Lord Zhu.” Taoshi expressed quietly. “A soggy slog back to the Monastery wouldn’t be pleasant.”

“Indeed, it would not be.” Taran chuckled. “I actually wanted to speak with you. In private.” He gestured to Tenwu and Lao-Chin.

Both of them took the hint. Taoshi had nothing to fear from Taran Zhu…but if she was going to be told something that no one else could be present for, she suspected it was something very important. Tenwu took a thick paper umbrella and unfurled it while he still had the advantage of the tent covering him from the rain. “Whenever you need us, we’ll just be a tent over.”

“Thank you both.” Taran Zhu bowed. The two younger Pandaren left them in the tent.

Taoshi folded both arms behind her back…clad in only her undershirt. Not exactly the most dignified appearance she’d ever had, but considering the…soggy state of her uniform…she didn’t exactly have a great choice in that regard. “I await your command, my lord.”

“Dutiful as ever.” Taran Zhu nodded gratefully. “I’ll make this quick as I can.” He drew a long breath. “Zhiyao’s death in the defense of the Ox-Gate, as well as that of Shado-Master Zhen during the battle for Longying, leaves us two Shado-Masters down. There are traditionally three per discipline, from the Blackguard, Omnia, and Wu Kao Disciplines.”

Taoshi nodded, and Taran continued. “Your conduct has been exemplary, Taoshi. Nurong and Ling speak of you in glowing terms. Occasionally you get a little impetuous…but your heart and your duty are in the right place. It was for that reason…” A searing flash of lightning lit up the skies immediately above the garrison, even with the tent protecting them. The thunder’s roar was such that Taran Zhu’s words were lost. The Lord of the Shado-Pan sighed and held a hand to his snout for a moment. “Ah. I believe what I was going to say was that I wanted to see if you were interested in succeeding Zhiyao. He was one of the Wu Kao’s finest, just as you are now.”

Taoshi’s breath caught in her chest. Her ears were still ringing a bit from the earlier thunderclap, yes...but she’d heard Taran Zhu perfectly just now. “My lord, I hope not to seem too presumptuous, or worse yet, arrogant…”

“Go right ahead.” Taran offered.

“…I would be very interested.” Taoshi bowed at once. “And I would be honored to serve the order in such a role.”

Taran Zhu smiled now, a genuine expression that lifted his eyespots slightly. “Then when you next return to the Monastery with Ling and Nurong, you will be named Shado-Master before the whole of the order, and your name be added on the scrolls of our order’s history.” The Lord of the Shado-Pan bowed. “I look forward to that day. Until then, brave Taoshi…” Taran Zhu inclined his head once again. “Keep up the fine work.”

“I shall do so, my lord.” Taoshi bowed.

Then Taran Zhu left…leaving a very hopeful, excited, and somewhat giddy Taoshi in the tent. The downpour continued, but it couldn't dampen her spirits.

[mastersnowdrift]

Memories

There was something about the last group of pedestrians he passed that stuck out to Master Snowdrift...formerly of the Shado-Pan. No, not formerly. He was still part of it, even if he was in a strange world that did not follow the conventions of Azeroth. He endured. He had no choice but to endure.

...

[THREE YEARS AGO]

Snowdrift was incredulous. "You want me to do what?!"

Tenwu of the Red Smoke, still all of twenty year sold, was most insistent. "I want you to teach me how to use Tornado Kick, Master!"

Snowdrift held a hand to his brow. Tenwu wanted to learn everything, but Snowdrift was experienced when it came to teaching one as...baffling as Tenwu was. As it was, Tenwu still had so much to learn before he could try to add that technique to his arsenal. "I cannot teach you that."

"Master Snowdrift, why not?!" Tenwu's response was that of a petulant child.

"Because you already think you know everything." Snowdrift replied unhappily. "Until you come to me with humility in your heart...I will not teach you."

Tenwu's face crinkled into a dissatisfied frown. He wore his emotions clearly, unable to disguise them from the Blackguard Master. "I am humble, Master."

Snowdrift barked a laugh. "Indeed. Shall I test you to prove your readiness now, Tenwu?"

The color drained from Tenwu's red cheeks. "I...perhaps not."

"Eagerness is not the same thing as readiness." Snowdrift emphasized coolly. "Learn humility first. Then speak with me...and I shall determine whether you are capable of such techniques."

Tenwu, frustrated in his whims, yet inwardly accepting Snowdrift's words at last, bowed low. Snowdrift, for his part, returned the gesture.

...

[THE PRESENT]

Snowdrift sighed as the memory faded. What had brought it on? That anonymous slip that Tenwu of the Red Smoke had 'died'? How had that reached him here?

He dismissed it. Until he saw Tenwu, or the bodies of any other member of the Shado-Pan, or heard of their deaths from Lord Zhu himself, he would continue as though they were alive. It is possible that those orchestrating this experiment want to put me to the test by 'informing' me of the deaths of those I care about. I shall not fall for the bait. Those without faces are not worthy of my respect or my trust.

Snowdrift continued his walk through the Third District, seeking the train that would take him someplace else. Anyplace else. He just didn't want to be in such a violent place at the moment.

[artistgem]

"Still, we must prove we are better than they. We will show them honor in death."

Except one.

[sirdolraan]

DWC May 2024 masterpost

This time around it was all about Spiru Handycog, who I rolled using the random appearance tool in pandaria timerunning, and proceeded to declare she was going to be a real girl whether I liked it or not. (So, you know, situation normal)

Day 1: Mysterious/Appearance: An Offering of Potential; Spiru is rebuilt from non-existence and begins her journey Day 2: Agony/Embrace: The Shared Burdens of Grief; Spiru helps Sully "The Pickle" McLeary say goodbye to a dear friend Day 3: Shame/Favorite: Timey-wimey Revelations; Spiru finally meets her benefactor face to visage Day 4: Drama/Celebration: Not So Above It All; Spiru and Sully discuss a matter of great import while she treats his wounds in Kun Lai Day 5: Complication/Spicy: The Importance of Understanding your Gear; Spiru, Fei Li, and Tenwu of the Red Smoke try to stop a mantid swarm, shenanigans ensue Day 6: Empty/Confidence: Survivor's Grief; Spiru contemplates what comes next after defeating the foes offered by Pandaria Day 7: Void/Captivate: Fork in the Road; Spiru's Pandaria adventures come to an end and she makes an important choice

[actualpanda]

Kafa (OTP: You Fluffy Badasses)

No sooner had Tenwu entered the cooking tent than Lao-Chin turned to him with a grin on his face...a grin that faded when he saw Tenwu's features. "Oh my, but you look like you've seen a ghost! Or a spirit! Or a thousand..."

"Kafa. Now." Tenwu groaned as he slumped into a chair.

Lao-Chin waggled a finger, and Tenwu added the magic word. "Please."

"Enjoy your patrol last night?" Lao-Chin murmured as the brewmaster went to work shredding the kafa grounds.

"No." Tenwu answered simply, his thick, red-furred eyebrows looking as though they were angry beetles. "I almost stumbled into a yaungol javelin."

The brewmaster's own brows furrowed in concern, then he sighed. "You didn't get enough sleep before you went out."

"Oh, I know I didn't." Tenwu muttered. The table across from his chair didn't look nearly substantial enough to hold up his face. Considering his already...well, spoiled attitude, Tenwu didn't look like he wanted to take a dirt nap by resting his head on the table and putting its flimsiness to the test.

Rather than reply, Lao-Chin took a long breath and got to work on preparing the kafa. He soon had the water boiling, and once it was about the temperature he knew Tenwu enjoyed most, he poured it through the now-prepared kafa grounds. Taking a sip to be certain it was good beforehand, Lao-Chin nodded once. The bulky brewmaster then poured the kafa into a solid cup, and walked over to where Tenwu sat.

The rogue, much to his surprise, stood to his feet before he could arrive. Before Lao-Chin could hand him the cup, those dark red-furred arms wrapped about the bulk of his enormous belly. "Thank you." Tenwu buried his head in Lao-Chin's chest and nuzzled his face against the brewmaster's solid torso.

Lao-Chin used his free hand to wrap about Tenwu's back. "Good to have you back." He smiled from ear to ear.

"It's good to be back, Iron Belly." Tenwu murmured. Lao-Chin's smile grew broader as he felt the rogue's lips kiss the top of his belly.

"If you go out on patrol during the day...how about you come sleep with me, hmm?" Lao-Chin suggested.

The smaller rogue murmured something in agreement.

[actualpanda]

OTP: You Fluffy Badasses - Fic Collection

The Lao-Chin / Tenwu fanfic collection! Because that's kinda getting lost in the almost 6,000 posts I've made... Bookmark this if you like it! Or just save it. Or look them over, please. It's fluff fiction about equally fluffy Pandaren.

Three chapters feature tinypandafriend's incredibly awesome Pandaren rogue. And many thanks to him for allowing me to use his character in my stories!

In chronological order...

Where Questions May Lead

Comfort Foods

Vestment Related Guesses (Part 1) - featuring Lang Silentbelly

Vestment Related Guesses (Part 2) / The Bet - featuring Lang Silentbelly

The Bet (Part 2) - featuring Lang Silenbelly

Farewell Letters and Welcome Realizations

Third Watch (Part 1)

Third Watch (Part 2)

Third Watch (Part 3)

And if you need something to sell you as to just how ridiculously cute the two are together, well...perhaps tinybirdfriend's work of Tenwu and Lao-Chin might persuade you?

[actualpanda]

Third Watch (Part 3 / Final) - OTP: You Fluffy Badasses

More fluff fiction about equally fluffy Pandaren. Because reasons, that's why.

Word Count: 1,201

...

The patrol finished and the fourth watch sent to perform the same tasks, the three Shado-Pan returned to the camp. Tenwu was the first to head back to the tent, and cast a smile back at Lao-Chin…who was about to walk after him when Taran Zhu cleared his throat. “Lao-Chin, may I have a moment of your time?”

Lao-Chin had his back turned but he swallowed hard. And then he turned back and nodded. “Of course, Lord Zhu.”

Taran looked down, and then met Lao-Chin’s eyes. He stood about four inches shorter, but the authority that Lao-Chin attributed to him was a great one…as was the respect. Still…if this was about his relationship with Tenwu, there was more than a bit of nervousness. Relationships among the Shado-Pan were not forbidden, but neither were they…well, practiced. Most preferred to focus on their duty.

Yet since the rambunctious, flirtatious rogue had captured the gate to Lao-Chin’s heart, he knew that he had changed. “It…will not take long. I have an observation.”

“My…my lord?” Lao-Chin answered hesitantly.

“I see the way he looks at you when he leaves your presence.” The words that Taran Zhu spoke caused Lao-Chin to freeze up on the spot. Taran Zhu’s golden eyes closed. “You know what I mean, Lao-Chin. You make Tenwu extremely happy.”

Lao-Chin said nothing. Taran continued speaking. “If I speak wrongly, you have my apologies. But I am good at reading both of you given the many years you have spent in the service of this order.” Taran’s voice was soft. The authority was still there, but muted. This was a private conversation, wasn’t it? “He is in love with you. He might be a rogue, but he can’t hide that. Not from those who know him as long as I have…and certainly not from you.”

The huge brewmaster nodded once. Taran spoke again. “As for how I learned this…you do not have to worry about one of the others telling me. I had an inkling before…but needed substance to back up my idea.” Taran Zhu shrugged his great shoulders, the tiger pauldron on his shoulder ‘breathing’ jade mists into the cloudy night. “Were you concerned about the rest of the order finding out?”

Lao-Chin thought about this for a moment. “No. I am not ashamed of my relationship with Tenwu, my lord. Far from it. He has brought my life meaning ever since I embraced him as a part of it.” He closed this statement emphatically, patting one fist to his chest. “As for the order…they know who we are.” He folded both arms over his considerable belly and explained what he meant. “I am confident that others will understand. Those who will not…well, that’s unfortunate, but Tenwu is a part of my life just as I am a part of his. He would be immensely displeased if he had to hide that…as would I, for that matter, Lord Zhu.”

Taran Zhu smiled faintly beneath the scarf…then he took one hand to the corner of his scarf and lowered it. “Then…allow me to say this.” He held out one hand, and Lao-Chin accepted it. Taran then held the other hand to Lao-Chin’s and squeezed tightly. “Seeing as you have both embraced who you are, and come to find happiness in each other as you have…I wish you the best.” A brilliant smile transformed Taran’s normally reserved face. “We have had enough grief in recent days, yes? Tenwu finds comfort in your presence, as you do in his. Never lose sight of that.” Taran met Lao-Chin’s eyes and the golden gleam was as intense as Lao-Chin had ever seen it.

These aren’t mere words to make me feel better. He meant all of what he said…

Lao-Chin nodded once, a halting smile taking over his features. “Thank you…Lord Zhu.”

Taran inclined his head. “If anyone…and I mean anyone in the order sees fit to give either you or Tenwu any trouble over your relationship…do not hesitate to speak of that to me.” Taran’s grin became more of a rogue’s and less of a friend’s. “There is no place for that sort of intolerance.”

Lao-Chin’s head bobbed three times quickly. Then he bowed. “My Lord…I believe my bed desires me.”

Taran wrapped the scarf about his face and nodded. “Do not disappoint it, then.” A rare chuckle escaped the lips of the Lord of the Shado-Pan. “I will accompany the fourth watch on their next pass. Good night, Iron Belly.”

Lao-Chin bowed again and walked through the darkness back to the tent. Tenwu had already stripped down to his undershirt and his underpants, and lay down on the bed. His eyebrows fluttered teasingly, but then he regarded Lao-Chin with a questioning stare. “What did Lord Zhu want to see you about?”

Lao-Chin removed his pants and joined Tenwu on the sleeping mats they’d put together for easier convenience. He wrapped both arms about the smaller rogue and smiled. “He…had an idea that we were together. Taran Zhu wanted me to know…that he wishes our relationship complete happiness.”

“Good.” Tenwu murmured, wrapped his arms about Lao-Chin’s shoulders and nuzzling his head against the brewmaster’s neck, kissing him several times. Lao-Chin giggled helplessly as those lips tickled the one of the most delightfully sensitive parts of his body and patted Tenwu’s back...very much enjoying the sensation of the rogue’s fur beneath the fabric. He felt Tenwu’s smile against his fur. “His approval means a lot. Did he say anything else?”

“We were to talk to him if anyone gave us grief over this.”

At that, Tenwu’s face fell. He nodded soberly. “Right…there are…those who might not agree.”

“Love is love.” Lao-Chin murmured, hugging Tenwu to his big belly and enjoying the feeling of the rogue’s solid gut against his own. “You…complete me, Tenwu. In ways I didn’t know I needed to be completed.” The rogue lifted his head from Lao-Chin’s neck and shoulder and smiled in an abashed manner. “You have made my life better by being part of it…and I am so, so grateful for that.”

Tenwu touched his lips to Lao-Chin’s, with gentleness guiding them, with passion blazing in those blue eyes. The teasing sensation as those warm lips and the fur surrounding them pressed against his own, the scars above his lips, caused Lao-Chin to smile helplessly.

It was with great reluctance that the kiss ended. Tenwu shifted his arms where he’d positioned them about Lao-Chin’s broad bulk. “Is it fine if I kiss you?”

“Always.” Lao-Chin whispered. Tenwu promptly began kissing him on his neck again, and between giggles, Lao-Chin placed his lips to the rogue’s forehead. “Of course, sleeping with an invisible partner would cause even more whispers.”

“You’re full of good ideas.” Tenwu chuckled. “But I’ll do that another time. How about…we sleep on it?”

Lao-Chin rolled onto his back. “I’d settle for having you sleep on me, to be honest.” At that invitation, Tenwu stood, draped himself over the huge brewmaster’s belly, and laid as many kisses as he possibly could against Lao-Chin’s face and neck.

“You’re better than a bed in any case.” Tenwu agreed, nuzzling his face into Lao-Chin’s neck and causing another fit of giggles from the brewmaster.

[actualpanda]

Afternoon Headcanons (body contact and sleeping habits - Fluffy Badasses)

Tenwu doesn't use a pillow if he sleeps during the day, especially if Lao-Chin is right there (and a brewmaster's big belly is better than a pillow in any case).

The number of times that Tenwu has woken up to find Lao-Chin's arms draped all over him is too many to count. By contrast, the number of times that Tenwu has woken up to find Lao-Chin on top of him can be counted on the fingers of a single hand. Chest-crushing experiences generally need to be minimized.

Tenwu hates it when someone ruffles their hands through his hair...with the exception being Lao-Chin. Of course, there's no guarantee Lao-Chin's hands will stay there, as he knows where all of Tenwu's sensitive spots are (hint; underarms, neck, lower back and belly).

Lao-Chin makes chuffing sort of chuckling noises whenever Tenwu is rubbing his ((very generous)) love handles (and full out giggling if the situation escalates to tickles). And he makes almost sort of purring/growling noises whenever the rogue's hands move over his belly.

Tenwu giggles uncontrollably whenever Lao-Chin wraps his arms about his lower back on account of his very ticklish lower back. The number of times this situation has developed into neck kisses and bone-crushing hugs is too great to count.

Lao-Chin keeps better care of his appearance since he started sleeping with Tenwu. 

Tenwu is allowing his mustache hairs to grow out since he started sleeping with Lao-Chin. The more ticklish the kisses are, the better.

The scars on Lao-Chin's upper lip are about the most ticklish thing ever and if he starts kissing Tenwu's lower back...well, a full-on makeout might be on the way. Very quickly.

Neck nuzzles are the best thing ever in both their opinions.

[actualpanda]

Third Watch (Part 2) - OTP: You Fluffy Badasses

Fluff Fiction about Fluffy Pandaren. Because reasons, that's why.

Third Watch, Part 2, is 1,200+ words long. Enjoy.

...

A thick hand suddenly appeared out of the darkness and settled on Tenwu's shoulder. Alarmed, the rogue turned to his right and caught the golden flicker of very familiar eyes. At once, he swallowed hastily. "Lord Zhu."

"Tenwu of the Red Smoke." Taran Zhu answered him. "And Lao-Chin the Iron Belly."

Lao-Chin had whirled in place as soon as Tenwu had frozen. The brewmaster bowed. "My Lord."

"You both drew third watch?"

Tenwu nodded. "Yes, sir."

"Mind having a third set of eyes join you at all?" Taran Zhu offered, a bit of a smile at the edge of his lips...at least, from what Tenwu could see through Taran's scarf.

"Not at all, Lord Zhu." This time, Lao-Chin answered. There was a hint of disappointment that only Tenwu seemed to pick up on...perhaps sharing the watch together was one of the things that Lao-Chin had been looking forward to.

Instead this made matters a bit more complicated.

"We'd be honored." Tenwu bowed.

"Good." Taran returned the bow but did not bend as much as Tenwu did. "Let's go."

Tenwu could not recall a more silent patrol in all of the nights he'd been posted to Townlong over the last two weeks. There were sentries about camp, yes, and all made certain to acknowledge Taran's presence with a polite bow. Lao-Chin was making an effort to be as silent as possible, the clinking noises of his staff were almost as quiet as Tenwu's footsteps.

They'd made their first sweep about the camp when Taran Zhu cleared his throat. "I should add that I accompanied Snow Blossom and Chao about camp as well." Taran stated after a moment, breaking the silence. "Even as tired as she was, Chao wanted to talk. You two haven't said a word since we started." The implicit question of why that was hung in the air.

Tenwu gulped. This was not something he'd foreseen happening. Yes, Lao-Chin was someone he loved, but talking wasn't something that most rogues did on patrol duty. They hadn't said a word since they'd left the tent.

Lao-Chin saved Tenwu from having to answer by speaking up. "Chao's voice is something that she loves exercising, no matter what sort of tiredness lies on her brow, my lord." The huge brewmaster shrugged. "If Tenwu had something to say, he would say it. Perhaps we do not need words at this hour."

"Ah." Taran accepted this with a nod. "From what I remember in my youth, even Wu Kao rogues tried to make small talk on their patrols..." This part was clearly addressed to Tenwu.

Yes, but that probably wasn't while their Lord was accompanying them. Tenwu thought to himself. He spoke far more diplomatically than that, however. "Lao-Chin and I have said what needed saying." Tenwu declared. "But...I do have a question."

"Ask and I shall answer...so long as it is reasonable." Taran responded.

Tenwu breathed in and nodded. "My Lord, it isn't my place to ask...but why are you on patrol with us?"

Taran considered this, holding a hand to his chin through the scarf. A moment later, he lowered it. "I am responsible for the entire order. The events of recent days have claimed many lives...and I know morale is not great." Taran's golden eyes closed for a moment. "If accompanying you two can do anything to lift your spirits, than I must do that, yes?" Taran posed this rhetorically, shrugging his great shoulders. "Does that answer your question, Tenwu?"

"It does, Lord Zhu." Tenwu bowed. "Forgive my impertinence."

Taran inclined his helmeted head. "You knew Lin Silentstrike well, Tenwu. And Suna...and Zhiyao."

"The entire Wu Kao knew of them, Lord Zhu." Tenwu answered quickly. The pain of their deaths still hung in his mind. He thought then of Lin, left to die behind enemy lines, and of Suna, left in her grief by her commander...a grief that had destroyed her in time. Zhiyao had died in the field of battle...a Shado-Pan rogue to the last breath.

I wanted to punch Ban Bearheart in the snout when I found out he left Lin in enemy hands. The order I was trained in does not leave its fellows..

Ever.

"Their deaths will haunt many within the order for a long time to come...myself included." Taran stated, holding a hand to Tenwu's shoulder. In that moment, Tenwu met the golden eyes of Taran Zhu and saw the grief he felt echoed within them. "Lin was a good friend to me for many years. He asked me to join his and Suna's hands in marriage." Taran's eyes closed.

"Lin trained me in how to walk without making a single noise." Tenwu reminisced. "He was...a good teacher. Zhiyao spoke like a gentle rain on a hot summer day but I'd never seen an assassin do what he did." He gathered his hand into a fist. "He taught me how to throw my knives."

"Suna's smile could light up even the gloomiest day in the field." Lao-Chin murmured. "I remember telling her that she needed to smile more. She could bring a lot of cheer to those around her. Zhiyao...was a good soul. He was gentle when the time called for it, and decisive when combat demanded his best efforts."

Taran Zhu merely nodded. "Have either of you meditated since their passing?" Tenwu nodded at once. Lao-Chin nodded as well. "And you understand why Suna fell?" All three paused, their second sweep complete.

"I think that I do." Tenwu spoke hesitantly, but gained confidence as he gathered his thoughts. "She allowed rage at her husband's seemingly pointless death to dictate her actions."

"And she fell into darkness." Lao-Chin concluded glumly. "I...I was there when Lin was left behind at the Ox-Gate."

Taran held a hand to Lao-Chin's shoulder. "Do you blame yourself, Iron Belly?"

"Part of me does." Lao-Chin admitted. Tenwu's eyebrows rose beneath his helmet. "I should have kept a closer eye on Lin, Lord Zhu. Instead, he got into the kind of trouble that no one can escape from."

Taran shook his head. "You shouldn't. You have meditated on what happened, yes? What if you had done something differently and gotten yourself captured as well that day?"

Tenwu felt a lump come to his throat. That was not a thought he'd wanted to indulge. Would he trade Lao-Chin's life for Lin's, if it meant the Silentstrikes lived that day?

No. He wouldn't.

Lao-Chin looked down. Clearly similar thoughts were on his mind.

"You followed your orders, Lao-Chin." Tenwu spoke up, wrapping both arms about Lao-Chin's chest. Taran Zhu's eyebrows rose with surprise at the open gesture of affection, but he said nothing...for now. "You might not have liked them...but they were your orders to follow."

"Ban Bearheart's defense was that he had to attend to those under his command, and that Lin had disobeyed orders." Taran sighed. "Who was right? Who was wrong? Perhaps both were correct in doing what they did. Perhaps neither. But if events of that day and those that followed haunt you for the rest of your life, Lao-Chin...we will all be much worse off for it. You must find peace in what happened."

Lao-Chin nodded soberly and bowed. "Yes, Lord Zhu. I will."

Tenwu released Lao-Chin from the hug. There was something akin to a smile about Taran's lips, but he gestured back to the route they'd taken. "Let's...resume our duties, yes? Your watch is almost over."

Tenwu could not help but breathe a sigh of relief as the three Shado-Pan began their third sweep about the camp.

[actualpanda]

Third Watch (Part 1) - OTP: You Fluffy Badasses

And here's another installment of fluff fiction about equally fluffy Pandaren, because I couldn't get the images of these two out of my mind.

This is set the night / morning of Farewell Letters and Welcome Realizations.

Title: Third Watch, Part 1 Word Count: 1,037

The first idea that Tenwu had that he was supposed to wake up was when a fuzzy feeling crept across his lips. A fuzzy feeling mixed with just the hint of an energizing brew, at that. “Good morning, fuzzy face.” Lao-Chin’s lips moved not even a full inch away from Tenwu’s. “Get a good night’s rest?” The brewmaster had one arm draped over Tenwu’s stomach. Over the course of the night, the two had naturally tossed and turned…clearly Lao-Chin had wanted to wake him up in a gentle fashion.

Which Tenwu appreciated. “Fuzzy face yourself," he chuckled, "not as much as I’d hoped.” Tenwu at once kissed Lao-Chin full on the lips, feeling the tickle of the faded scar above Lao-Chin’s right lip. Only reluctantly did he release Lao-Chin from that kiss. He cleared his throat and smiled. “Did you sleep fine?”

"No nightmares." Lao-Chin answered, wrapping one arm about Tenwu’s body. "I slept mighty well with you on top of me. Then you rolled off…and then I fell asleep like that."

"I’m sorry if that made you uncomfortable." Tenwu patted Lao-Chin’s chest. "I’m not exactly a lightweight."

"Oh, you were fine." Lao-Chin made a happy little growling noise at the touch of Tenwu’s fuzzy hand against his chest. and Tenwu began rubbing his belly. The growling grew steadily more contented until Lao-Chin’s eyes closed. "I can handle your weight atop my gut easily enough. Someone like Yi, though…” At that, Lao-Chin mock shuddered.

Tenwu chuckled at that. Lao-Chin was the heaviest in the Shado-Pan and had earned that distinction with good reason, and Yi was only slightly smaller than he was. “I’ve only gotten Yi to say more than five words in a single sentence once in all the time I’ve known him.”

"Oh?" Lao-Chin’s eyebrows rose. He knew quite well just how tight-lipped Protector Yi was.

"Yep. As I remember, he said ‘Stop poking me or you’ll wake up in the lake’."

"And?"

"One simply does not provoke a Protector after something like that." Tenwu��s eyes closed. "You know that."

Lao-Chin hugged him. “You were probably playing dirty. Aiming for his great gut…”

"His belly isn’t as big as yours is, Lao-Chin." Tenwu reminded him, gently prodding the eponymous Iron Belly.

Lao-Chin released him and rolled his eyes. "That much is obvious.” He shook his head as though trying to shake sleep from his eyes and his inmost being, swinging his shoulders up and rising to a sitting position. “We’ve got watch soon enough.”

"You can tell when your watch is supposed to begin?" Tenwu seemed surprised by this. Lao-Chin was quite a sound sleeper.

"You can’t?" Lao-Chin echoed his surprise. Then he offered an abashed smile. "I’ve drawn third watch three nights in a row. If it’s the same shift every night, you get used to it." He patted Tenwu’s shoulder.

"I could use some consistency." Tenwu muttered, accepting the rub. "It’s a different watch every night for me."

"I know." Lao-Chin offered one hand and Tenwu accepted, allowing the brewmaster to pull him to an upright position. "Get ready. We’ve got ground to cover."

Tenwu nodded and reached for his scarf and his hat. His topknot was a mess, but the traditional Shado-Pan hat would conceal that. He pulled the vest over one arm and then the other, tugging it down his big gut and enjoying the feeling of the fabric against his skin. I’m gaining weight. Good. I need it. He had lived as a shriveled mushroom long enough.

"Have I ever mentioned that I love watching you get dressed?" Lao-Chin offered in a low tone, with a roguish look in his eyes. The brewmaster hadn’t taken his pants off and didn’t need to bother with putting them back on. And Lao-Chin never bothered with the top half of the traditional uniform, in any case…

"You’ve also mentioned that you love watching me take my clothes off." Tenwu smiled and pulled up the lower half of his uniform to below his waistline. The belt that secured it to the top half was easily fastened. He then pulled the scarf over his head and secured it about his cheeks, pulling the traditional helmet of the Shado-Pan over his head a moment later. "Ready."

"No daggers this time?" Lao-Chin’s raised eyebrow indicated his skepticism.

Tenwu patted the rings there the kunai he carried were normally fastened…and found just the rings. The blades were on the small table. “Right. Never leave home without them.”

Lao-Chin chuckled as Tenwu fastened his gear about himself. “Let’s go.” The brewmaster stated, using his brewmaster’s staff to lift open the flap of the tent. “I’m sure Chao and Snow Blossom will appreciate us arriving early.”

They made their way through the sleeping camp, Tenwu’s steps utterly silent. Lao-Chin’s didn’t seem to shake the earth; his brewmaster’s staff made the only other noises that Tenwu could hear; small ‘clicks’ and ‘dunks’ were audible as the vials and bottle at the end of Lao-Chin’s staff ran into one another.

Only the stars were out. The moon was little more than a sickly sliver against the sky above, and offered almost nothing. This meant that the two had to squint to see much of anything, but Tenwu was used to dimly lit environments.

The brewmaster and rogue passed the watch they were relieving near the Challenger’s Circle. A very sleepy Chao the Voice offered a lazy wave, while Snow Blossom offered a more courteous salute. “Nothing interesting to report.” She reported. “Catch you in the morning.”

"Good night." Tenwu smiled at the frost mage in the darkness. "Catch up on your rest."

Snow Blossom nodded to do just that, heading back towards the camp and catching Chao’s arm before the Blackguard battlemaster could fall asleep where she stood. “Let’s get you back, all right?”

"Good plan." Chao murmured, the voice she was known for barely more than a husky whisper.

"Must have had a rough day." Tenwu whispered.

Lao-Chin agreed. “Or had to go on watch when she was really falling asleep.”

Tenwu shuddered, he knew that feeling quite well. "Right. Let's go."

The assassin and the brewmaster headed off about the camp, eyes alert in the darkest hours of the night.

[actualpanda]

Vestment Related Guesses (Part 2) / The Bet - OTP: You Fluffy Badasses (Feat. Lang / Wolf)

The adventures of my most accidental OTP ever continue...this time, with a certain Pandaren rogue tagging along for the ride.

This is Part 2 of (hopefully) 3 sections featuring Wolf / Lang silentbelly, who is muddybear's amazing Pandaren rogue, who deserves all your bearhugs and nose boops.

Title: Vestment Related Guesses (Part 2) / The Bet Word Count: 1,415

When Lao-Chin returned, dusk had settled about the camp, and more wood was being added to the bonfires of the Shado-Pan Garrison in the Townlong Steppes. He’d traveled a good distance today on his riding tiger; he’d accompanied Master Snowdrift into the field to check on a yaungol post to the north that had borne the brunt of a mantid assault. They'd arrived to find a bunch of burned out yaungol tents, but no bodies. “Whatever happened here happened long before our scouts spotted it.” Snowdrift had concluded. It wasn’t a wasted effort; they’d concluded the outpost wasn’t being used at the very least. The yaungol had likely abandoned it, considering there were all the obvious signs of mantid activity.

Now, they reported back to the camp. Master Sagewhisper had agreed with their conclusions after Snowdrift gave his report. “Mantid normally don’t leave husks all over the place unless it’s to send a message.” Yalia stated, holding one hand at her side. “In this case…this was to tell the yaungol that the next time they try claiming that camp back, the mantid will make them bleed for it.”

Snowdrift nodded. “We’ll keep an eye on that situation. Chances are the two sides will tangle again in the near-future.” The Blackguard Master then looked to the gigantic Pandaren who’d followed him into the field. “Lao-Chin, you’re dismissed. Your company on this task was appreciated.”

Lao-Chin bowed then. “It was my pleasure, Master. We didn’t get to fight today, but I’ll be ready if we need to in the future.”

Snowdrift ruffled the fur of Lao-Chin’s free shoulder. “There will be other chances for you to show me what you know soon enough. You can trust me on that.”

Lao-Chin wandered his way back to his tent. Snow Blossom seemed the picture of serenity, having chosen to meditate atop a high tree branch…a branch that would never have borne Lao-Chin’s great weight. He waved up to her and then continued on his way.

A hand on his right shoulder seemed to appear out of nowhere, and quite literally grabbed his attention. His eyes wide open, Lao-Chin whirled to his right, ready for a scrap. The cheeky grin on the face of the rogue who’d spooked him couldn’t keep Lao-Chin upset for long, however…especially considering who bore that smile. “Was that really necessary?” Lao-Chin asked, reached out and hugging Tenwu.

“I just needed to prove I still had that ability.” Tenwu grunted as he was squeezed into Lao-Chin’s stomach. The smaller rogue wrapped his arms about and hugged Lao-Chin back as best he could. “Welcome back.”

Another Pandaren appeared out behind Tenwu, “Ah, there’s the fellow we wanted to see!”

“We?” Lao-Chin released Tenwu from his grasp. “I can only imagine what this might be about.”

Tenwu smiled at once, but offered no answer. Instead, he gave a brief introduction. “Lao-Chin, this charming Pandaren is Lang. He remembers you... Perhaps you don’t remember him as well as he remembers you, though...” Lao-Chin reached around Tenwu to shake the big rogue’s strong hand. He noticed the gold earring above Lang’s left ear and in that moment, his memory was jarred back of the burly Pandaren rogue who had smashed the absolute stuffing out of several mantid, wearing several mantid husk pieces in order to cushion the blows they showered him with. An interesting tactic then…and I was glad to have the company. Tenwu shuffled out of the way, allowing Lang and Lao-Chin to get into a more comfortable handshaking stance.

Lang smiled at seeing comprehension dawn on Lao-Chin’s broad features, his dark features creasing with laughter. “We fought together at Dusklight Bridge. I recall you had a small cloud of brew above your head when we did.”

Lao-Chin chuckled helplessly as Lang released his hand. “That…could describe any number of fights I’ve had these past few months. But I do remember you. You’ve been well, I trust?”

“As well as sneaking about and dueling absolute flirts like Tenwu can make me, yes.” Lang poked Tenwu on the shoulder. “Fortunately for him…I rather like the poking game.”

The brewmaster now guffawed with laughter, holding one hand to his vast belly in mirth. “Then we are of like minds on that matter.” Leaning closer to Lang, he whispered, “It’s one of the best things about him, isn’t it?”

“I’m right here.” Tenwu shook his head and uttered a small tsk-tsk in a manner that would have made Master Sagewhisper proud. “And I can hear both of you perfectly.”

Lao-Chin ignored him for the time being. “He didn’t bug you about your vest, did he?”

Lang shook his head and sighed. “Constantly. I had to poke him in his big belly to get him to stop. And that only worked for two minutes.” A smile spread across Lang’s features at the memory

“’Big belly’ yourself.” Tenwu shook his head. “You wear your weight well, though.”

 Lao-Chin flashed his teeth in his next grin. “I think he was more interested in seeing you without the vest than in finding out the story behind it.”

Lang’s mouth opened and his eyebrows rose with surprise. “I can imagine that…” He muttered, smiling after a moment. “You really do like what you see, don’t you?”

“He most definitely does.” Lao-Chin assured Lang.

Tenwu’s normally red cheeks bore a frown instead of a smile. Lao-Chin shrugged. “I’d say Lang’s got you figured out, Tenwu.”

Tenwu pursed his lips into a disappointed expression, the teasing clearly not doing wonders for his temperament. “We wanted to see you, Lao-Chin? Remember that?” There was a bit of an edge to his voice.

Lao-Chin shrugged at this. “What did you two want to see me about?”

Lang clapped his hands together. “We need someone to judge who’s the better rogue between us. And seeing as you aren’t a rogue, and Tenwu thinks very highly of your skills…”

Tenwu finished his sentence. “He seems to think that because he threw me the way he did, his skills at stealth are somehow greater than mine.”

Lao-Chin held a hand to his forehead. “I wish I had a cloud of brew above my head right now.” At seeing both Tenwu and Lang’s cheerful expressions fall and them both mutter something about finding Snow Blsosom to do this instead, Lao-Chin acquiesced, holding both hands up helplessly. “All right, all right. I take it something is at stake in this…contest?”

“It’s simple. We both hide under stealth, and whoever you find the most times is obviously the worst rogue between us. The winner gets ten gold pieces.” Tenwu smiled, jutting his head out a bit at Lang…almost like a peacock, in a way. Lao-Chin might have laughed at the image, had he not been so irritable at the moment. “And a surprise as well.” Tenwu threw in.

Lao-Chin’s vast belly grumbled. “I hope that surprise is the loser cooks the winning party’s dinner. Very well… As the judge, I will impose my own conditions.”

Lang held a hand to his chin in contemplation. “I assume that’s to protect the integrity of the contest?”

Lao-Chin pressed his lips together and thought of some things that would make it a tad easier for him to find the two rogues. Considering they were both considerably lighter than he was, no trees could be allowed to be used as hiding places. Or at least…they couldn’t climb them. “Neither of you are allowed to seek refuge in the upper branches of the trees about camp.” Both Lang and Tenwu looked like they were about to protest, but the mock-severe stare that Lao-Chin aimed at both of them prevented either rogue from complaining. “Second…you will both hide somewhere within the camp. I’m not taking my tiger out of their enclosure just to chase you across Townlong.” Tenwu muttered something to Lang, who smiled briefly. Lao-Chin ignored it. “Lastly…when one of you is found, the person who hid most successfully will choose a new location.”

Lang nodded in acceptance of these terms. Tenwu’s lips furrowed into a frown, and then he nodded as well. Lao-Chin held out his hand, both rogues put a hand each on top, and Lao-Chin smiled. “I have to admit…I’ve never done this before. It’ll be interesting to see which one of you is worse at hiding.” Both rogues rolled their eyes at that. “May the best rogue win!” Lao-Chin shouted as he threw up his hand. Both Lang and Tenwu vanished on the spot…and the contest began.

[actualpanda]

Vestment Related Guesses (Part 1) - OTP: You Fluffy Badasses (Feat. Wolf)

Silly ideas sometimes translate into ridiculously fun stories to write. In this case, I plunked down 1,300 words, which makes this the largest installment of the stories featuring the Fluffy Badasses of Lao-Chin and Tenwu.

This story has a cameo by Wolf, who is muddybear's Pandaren rogue. The later installments (which will be up at some point tomorrow) will have a bit more of the big fellow.

Title: Vestment Related Guesses (Part 1) - Featuring Wolf Word Count: 1,335

Frost covered the ground when Lao-Chin was roused from his slumber for the morning watch…and unfortunately, that morning watch meant he had to leave Tenwu snoring away on his sleeping mat. The Wu Kao had joined him for the night, but given Lao-Chin’s tendency to go without the top half of the uniform, eventually, the red-furred Wu Kao rogue found himself draped over Lao-Chin’s torso. He was a little nervous about how Tenwu would respond to not being woken up, but when the Wu Kao assassin approached him, there was a small smile on his features.

“So…did you sleep well last night?” Lao-Chin shuffled, uncertain of what Tenwu might say.

Tenwu nodded immediately. “I knew you had morning patrol. You told me before you went to bed…on second thought, that might have been you talking in your sleep. It’s good that you remembered, though.”

Lao-Chin shrugged in an abashed manner. “I’m…sorry I didn’t wake you up before I left. I didn’t have the heart.” He shrugged in a far more helpless fashion. If I’d disturbed you, it would have been a crime on my part.

“That was awfully kind of you.” Tenwu sidled next to Lao-Chin and placed a kiss against the brewmaster’s neck, on the side opposite his stone tiger pauldron. “I appreciate the hour or so of additional rest I got…well, before Taoshi woke me up with the frying pan.”

“That was what that racket was?” Lao-Chin said in a jesting manner. Tenwu nodded wearily and Lao-Chin burst out laughing, his great guffaws amplified by his gargantuan stomach. “I think she’ll be getting an earful from Snow Blossom. She didn’t look very happy about that.”

Tenwu huddled next to Lao-Chin, and the huge brewmaster wrapped an arm about his shoulders. “You see that guy out on the edge of the camp?”

Lao-Chin gave him a glance. “Are you referring to Moshu the Arcane, Ban Bearheart, or Tai Ho?” All three were sitting by one of the small bonfires, blazing away near the overlook and the target range.

“Not them.” Tenwu shook his head. “The Pandaren on the edge of the camp; the one who joined up with our group the other day.” He gestured to the Pandaren in question. Rather than follow the conventional styles of the Shado-Pan and arrange their hair into a topknot (or buzz that hair off entirely), the visiting Pandaren had a mussed yet almost effortlessly natural look. Considering the pain that Lao-Chin’s hair could be at times, this was something that he envied a bit.

Lao-Chin nodded upon recognizing the fellow. “The big male rogue who responded to your flirting taunts in kind, before throwing you like a scarecrow?” He chuckled, that image still hadn’t left him. To see Tenwu wrong-footed in such a fashion was not something that many of the Shado-Pan could confess they’d seen before.

Tenwu’s opponent, a burly male Pandaren who always seemed to be here in the mornings, but just beyond the reach of the camp, had been quite the help (according to Master Sagewhisper) throughout the area in recent days. He’d squared off with the Wu Kao… And then both had dropped into stealth soon after the opening blows of Tenwu’s challenge were exchanged. This had been much to the displeasure of the Shado-Pan who had gathered to watch Tenwu face off against the unfamiliar Pandaren. Unfamiliar does not mean outsider, not at heart. He fought like one of us, Lao-Chin recalled.Eventually, the duel progressed, the two exchanged punches while stealthed…and then dropped out of stealth. Tenwu’s opponent then took the upper hand; the burly Pandaren had boxed Tenwu’s ears, then had wrong-footed him so as to trip the Wu Kao. Before Tenwu could topple over into the dust, the burly Pandaren challenger seemed to appear out of nowhere, grab Tenwu between the thick part of his belly and chest, and throw him across the ring. Tenwu was so winded by the duel that he didn’t bother trying to recover.

And the form of that throw was beautiful. Not quite as beautiful as the person being thrown, though. Lao-Chin had seen and heard some of the less kind members of the order say just how much they liked seeing Tenwu taken aback so. Lao-Chin, for his part, made certain not to mention the horrified look Tenwu had on his face when he’d realized his predicament after the match was over. Instead, he hugged Tenwu, knowing that while Tenwu’s pride had been damaged, it had taken a defeat for the rogue to come to the same realizations that Lao-Chin had.

Only that defeat had opened Tenwu’s eyes to just how much these Pandaren from the outside world knew. And that they were not to be taken lightly. Lao-Chin had known this for a good long while… infact, he vaguely remembered the big Pandaren rogue with the bluish vest from the recent combat for Dusklight Bridge. Since then, he’s gotten better, definitely. More powerful, too.

Tenwu waved a hand dismissively. “Details. Yes, that’s him.”

“What about him am I supposed to notice?” Lao-Chin sighed; Tenwu was prone to these games. It was the small things he guessed about; he once speculated for hours about the contents of Ban Bearheart’s pockets…in a single afternoon. After the haze of a couple of his own drinks had clouded his vision, Lao-Chin found that he enjoyed these little mental games Tenwu had.

Tenwu’s next question pointed to the fact that he wanted to play one of those games, right this instant. “What do you think of his outfit?” The Wu Kao assassin asked him.

In truth, Lao-Chin hadn’t paid much attention to the relatively new arrival until Tenwu asked him to…well, eye the Pandaren up. Giving a more cautious gaze to the rogue, Lao-Chin sized him up from a distance. His vest had seen better days, yes, but it was still in one piece and seemed to do the job of covering his torso.

“It’s functional.” Lao-Chin offered after a moment. “Although it’s seen a bit of wear and tear. And if I can tell that from a distance, then chances are, he’d agree.”

Tenwu huffed, almost offended by that analysis. This was a sign that clearly the guessers of this guessing game were not on the same page. After a moment, Tenwu muttered, “How can you say that about such a glorious piece of work?”

Lao-Chin cast Tenwu a wry glance. “I’m not sure if you’re talking about the vest, or the Pandaren wearing the vest.”

“Yes.” Tenwu responded with a cheeky grin on his face.

Lao-Chin rolled his eyes again. “I haven’t had enough brew to deal with your foolishness today. Tenwu, just…ask him where he got it.”

Tenwu sighed. “What would the fun in that be?”

Lao-Chin threw an arm about the Wu Kao assassin’s shoulders and drew him in close with a conspirator’s grin. “Instead of wasting fifteen minutes trying to guess at where his vestments came from and what shape they’re in and not getting any answers, you might actually find out the stories behind those glorious garments.”

Tenwu acquiesced then. “All right, I’ll go. And I’ll tell him you said hello.”

Lao-Chin winked. “I want to hear whatever story’s behind that vest. So I’ll go too.”

They had scarcely taken a dozen steps when the bellow of Master Snowdrift from the other side of the camp stopped the two Shado-Pan in their tracks. “LAO-CHIN!”

“What could that be about?” Lao-Chin sighed. Rather than yell back, the huge brewmaster instead looked off in the direction that Snowdrift’s voice had come from. A moment later, Lao-Chin hugged Tenwu. “I’ll try and let you know what’s going on…if I get the chance.”

Tenwu would have nodded, but Lao-Chin’s great strength pulled the much smaller rogue into the great bulk of Lao-Chin’s Iron Belly and easily had Tenwu gasping for air. “Sounds like…a plan…” It was only with great reluctance that Tenwu was released from Lao-Chin’s iron grip. And that Tenwu allowed Lao-Chin to leave.

[actualpanda]

Comfort Foods (OTP: You Fluffy Badasses)

So because I can't get them out of my head, here's 974 more words of Lao-Chin / Tenwu.

Content warnings for food (considering it is Ramadan at the time of this little piece getting published)

Title: Comfort Foods Length: 974 Words

Comfort Foods:

Lao-Chin sat on the rough ground, his back against the keg he normally carried at all times outside of the Monastery. The wooden bowl and the soup contained within radiated warmth…and that was a good thing. The night figured to be yet another in a long line of cold nights spent along the Gao-Ran Battlefront.

The seasons were changing. Pandaria was moving from a rough autumn that felt more like the ragged edges of summer and winter mixed together into a cool winter that would likely blanket the Townlong Steppes with sheets of snow in the next few weeks. When Tenwu demanded an explanation, Lao-Chin had smiled. I can feel it in my bones.

Tenwu sat nearby, looking over a small scroll of sorts… Actually, once Lao-Chin squinted in the dim light to make out what Tenwu was reading, he realized that the rogue has a small book in his hands. “So…reading anything interesting?” Lao-Chin murmured, bringing the bowl of soup to his lips and taking a sip afterwards.

“It’s a cookbook. I’m trying to see if the recipe I used is in here.” Tenwu muttered.

The flavorful broth and the mix of spices that had been used to lend it flavor sent feelings of absolute delight through every taste bud Lao-Chin possessed. When his tongue encountered something solid, the brewmaster tested it…and hastily wolfed down the chunk of meat that had absorbed most of the broth. He savored the sensation, turning over the meat in his mouth with his tongue before tearing the tender meat apart with his teeth. Once he’d finished that bite, Lao-Chin realized that Tenwu was smiling at him. Tenwu then shrugged. “You really enjoyed that, didn’t you?” The rogue closed whatever he was reading.

“The soup, or your smile?” Lao-Chin grinned briefly, taking another sip.

Tenwu shook his head, the corner of his lip tucking into a grin at the flattery. “The soup, of course.”

“The soup is excellent.” Lao-Chin inclined his head. “You had a hand in making it?”

“I had both hands involved in making it.” Tenwu’s chest seemed to puff up with satisfaction for a job that had been appreciated. “I know you don’t care for yak meat, but…well, I won’t ruin the surprise.”

“Surprise?” Lao-Chin peered into the broth. “Let’s hope it wasn’t of the fatal variety. You’re quite good at those.” Tenwu rolled his eyes at once.

“The surprise…is that it’s Oxtail Soup.” Tenwu shrugged. Lao-Chin’s eyes widened. “It’s like the kind my mother made. At least…what I remember her making.”

She passed away when he wasn’t even eight years old, Lao-Chin remembered, and then he basically became an orphan after his father followed her to the grave.

“It’s certainly savory.” Lao-Chin took another sip. “And greatly appreciated.”

Tenwu nodded, meeting Lao-Chin’s eyes. “I don’t cook that often. Except when I’m ordered to. Or when I feel like it. Which…isn't often.” The rogue abashedly fidgeted with his hands over his chest.

“You felt like cooking for me.” Lao-Chin smiled from ear to ear, placing the now-empty bowl on the ground. “I’m touched, Tenwu. I haven’t had Oxtail Soup quite that excellent in…many, many years.”

Tenwu stood to his feet and shuffled over to Lao-Chin and sat down next to the brewmaster. Once he sat down, Lao-Chin wrapped an arm about Tenwu’s shoulders and hugged him close. Tenwu promptly snuggled into him as much as possible. “I’m glad that my efforts to satisfy that great gut of yours were appreciated.” Tenwu patted Lao-Chin’s huge stomach with one hand. “And that you enjoyed it as much as you did.”

Lao-Chin nuzzled the rogue’s head against his neck, enjoying very much the feeling of Tenwu’s fuzzy hand against the fur of his stomach. “If you tell me how to make that again, then I can whip it up…for whenever you don’t feel like cooking.”

Tenwu turned his head to meet Lao-Chin’s eyes as best he could. “That would be nice.” After a moment, the rogue stiffened slightly.

“What’s wrong?” Lao-Chin asked, releasing the arm he’d gathered Tenwu to himself with.

Tenwu pursed his lips and stated, “I drew first watch tonight.”

Lao-Chin sighed. “I drew last watch.”

Now it was Tenwu’s turn to sigh. “Will we ever have a night to ourselves, Iron Belly?” He relaxed back into Lao-Chin. For his part, the brewmaster once again wrapped his arm about Tenwu’s shoulders.

Lao-Chin leaned his head down and kissed Tenwu on the forehead, enjoying the ticklish feeling of Tenwu’s eyebrows against his lips. He especially enjoyed the feeling of those bushy brows against the scars above his lip. “Probably not on this deployment.”

Tenwu snuggled closer to him and began rubbing Lao-Chin’s broad belly once again. The brewmaster couldn’t help but make small noises of contentment. “We’ll make the time after we return to the Monastery.” Tenwu murmured in his smoothest possible tone. “I promise.”

“I would like that.” The rogue now placed a kiss against Lao-Chin’s neck.

They remained huddled together, sharing in each other’s warmth and company, until Taoshi arrived and Tenwu had to leave for the first patrol of the night. Once Tenwu had left, Lao-Chin gathered a thick blanket about himself and huddled on the sleeping pad for a moment. Oxtail Soup… I’ll need that recipe. He doesn’t like cooking much… But when he puts his mind to it, Tenwu can cook up a flavor sensation.

Licking his lips, Lao-Chin decided not to go to sleep right away. Instead, blanket gathered about him, he picked up the bowl of soup to find the cooking tent…where hopefully, more of Tenwu’s special Oxtail Soup was simmering.

And if not…well, Lao-Chin’s own mother had a pretty good recipe for sweet and sour sauce that he knew very well by heart. Tenwu will like that. I’ll have to make it tomorrow if I get a chance.

[actualpanda]

Where Questions May Lead (OTP: You Fluffy Badasses)

Where Questions May Lead (Lao-Chin the Iron Belly / Tenwu of the Red Smoke) Word Count: 1,138

So because I could not get these adorable fools out of my head, I proceeded to write over a thousand words about both of them...and their first kiss. Seems a good place to start, right?

"Do you remember your parents?" Lao-Chin's voice was collected, not having the drunkard's lilt despite the fact that two mugs of rice wine had gone down his mouth. His eyes were alert, his tone kind...and right now, that was exactly the kind of thing that Tenwu needed.

The red-furred rogue looked at his right leg and groaned inwardly. According to Yalia, he'd screwed up something in his knee when he'd planted awkwardly running down the hill after the yaungol, and the result...was this: a lame leg that wouldn't hold his full weight if he moved the right way. No duty for three days, she'd announced. When Tenwu protested, Yalia gave him a steady glare that could have split solid obsidian in half until he accepted his fate. No duty for three days. That would take him out of the field for most of this operation.

"Not favorably." Tenwu answered, looking up from the thick wrapping about his leg and meeting Lao-Chin's eyes. At his reply, Lao-Chin's eyes became downcast. "They stopped bothering with names after my fifth sibling was born.”

“And you were tenth. I remember you telling me.” Lao-Chin’s eyebrows furrowed.

“What about your parents?” Tenwu was quite eager to get the conversation off of himself. For Lao-Chin, Snowdrift, or Taran Zhu, Tenwu would speak of his past readily. For anyone else, he huddled into a shell. They’d just pity me at every turn. And I don’t want their pity; I want them to understand that just because I was a street thief and a beggar, I still became a Shado-Pan. I am as good as they are.

“You’d like them.” Lao-Chin smiled, leaning back against the keg he’d brought with him. “My mother is the best brewer in Dawn’s Blossom.” The smile that came across Lao-Chin’s face was blissfully content. “She had a rice wine that would lay out Hawkmaster Nurong in one go. And the flavor she put into it…subtle, yet sweet. My recipe for that is pretty poor by comparison.”

Tenwu looked towards the top of the tent. “You miss her?”

Lao-Chin responded in the affirmative. “I do, but don’t get me wrong: she’s still in the world of the living. I make sure to try and keep in contact. Letters, the like.”

“Must be nice.” Tenwu murmured, looking down at his cast.

“My father’s a florist, of all things.” Lao-Chin added.

Tenwu’s eyebrows furrowed. “Really?”

“He loves the feel of plants. The feeling of watching them grow, the satisfaction of a good bouquet of flowers…” Lao-Chin’s expression grew sour. “The disappointment of watching giant wasps destroy them. This year was really bad for him.”

“They ever ask about your love life?” Tenwu’s eyebrows rose. That was one thing he was glad not to be asked about by his siblings.

“All the time.” Lao-Chin moaned. “Father has this idea that, because I’m so big, I should have at least five cubs by now and countless women lined up outside my quarters, waiting to get a taste of the Iron Belly’s affections.” Tenwu burst out laughing. At that, Lao-Chin cast him a mock-offended glare. “I’m serious! If I wouldn’t die of embarrassment afterwards, maybe I’d show you some of them…”

Tenwu suggested. “You’ll meet the right woman someday. You’re perfectly stable, have a wonderful, laidback personality, and are exceptionally patient…”

“The right person. Who says it has to be a woman?” Lao-Chin corrected him with a far sterner glance. The mocking had left his face now. “Your kind words aside…what woman in their right mind would bother with me?” One of Lao-Chin’s powerful canines appeared to be itching at his scarred lip…something he only did when he was worried.

“Maybe…you haven’t asked the right person.” Tenwu offered, shrugging. In truth…someone like Lao-Chin wouldn’t be a bad mate in the slightest. Heck…I’ve never met the right person either. Everyone obsesses about who I was. They all want to know.

I don’t want that to define who I am the rest of my life. To have that burden accompany every single child I might bring into this world.

He looked over Lao-Chin, who’d nodded and closed his eyes. Leaning back a bit farther against the keg, the big brewmaster seemed almost ready to fall asleep in contemplation.

On second thought… Maybe I’ve been the hunting wolf, only I’ve barked up the wrong tree.

“What about���us?” Tenwu spoke aloud, but his voice was timid.

At that, Lao-Chin’s eyes opened wide. “By us…you mean…you and me?” Tenwu nodded. Lao-Chin’s gaze softened for a moment. “I’ve never thought about it…” Tenwu at once felt that sick feeling grow, the one he’d gotten immediately after he’d asked Taoshi out on a date…of sorts.

She’d rejected him immediately. There was no interest on her part.

He respected her decision. He had to.

To do anything less would not bring peace to his heart.

There wasn’t a future there. But with Lao-Chin...

That’s a future I want to build.

“But now that you mention it…why not us?” Lao-Chin smiled now. “You know…you’re quite spontaneous. And according to you, I’m stable…”

“Shouldn’t the hunting hawk have something to return to?” At hearing one of Nurong’s metaphors escape Tenwu’s lips, Lao-Chin rolled his eyes. Tenwu sat up.

“First off…if you want to make us a reality, there will be a minimum of Hawkmaster Nurong’s silly euphemisms leaving your mouth.” Lao-Chin waggled a finger. “Secondly…I want you to realize that I have never been part of a committed relationship before. With anyone. And no, the order doesn’t count.”

Tenwu nodded and then smiled cheekily. “I think we’re passengers on the same ship, then.”

Lao-Chin rolled his eyes once more. “Seeing as Nurong’s metaphors have filled your head, you may use three per day. Lastly…” Lao-Chin closed his eyes. “May I kiss you?”

Tenwu didn’t hesitate. This is what I want. “You may.”

The burly brewmaster stood up and then walked over to Tenwu, standing over the rogue for a moment. Then he remembered and at once apologized, “Oh. Right. Your leg. My mistake.” Lao-Chin the Iron Belly knelt down close to Tenwu, and then moved his head close…his lips closed until the last possible moment. Tenwu moved his head a tad closer…

And then their lips made contact.

Tenwu had never felt acceptance such as he felt in that moment. To know that Lao-Chin accepted him completely for who he was…brought joy to his soul, joy that he could never have expressed in words. So this…this is what Lorewalker Pao’s scrolls speak of when they mention love.

Not that I could ever know about those, of course.

Once the kiss was finished, Lao-Chin smiled from ear to ear and wrapped both hands about Tenwu’s chest, hugging him tightly. “I think…I could grow to enjoy that.”

From under Lao-Chin’s bearhug, Tenwu grunted, “I’ll make sure…that you do.”