#kelci shadeleaf

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 17 - Overcoming an Obstacle

Wow I’m so sorry this is 1, so late, and 2, so LONG. This was one I’ve wanted to write for a long, long time, and I guess I just WENT for it. Apologies for over 4300 words. Maybe I’ll finally get caught up, after this. I have a week!

A week had passed since Kelci had mounted the peak of Mount Neverest. She had gotten to know Daolong, at least to a point of casual friendship, over that time. Most of the days had been spent resting, though he did instruct her on ways to better meditate. She’d been practicing that, most of all. “It will help with the training,” He said, every time with a knowing tone in his voice. “Just trust me. It is important that your body and mind are at peace when we begin.” Though she had asked around the town, nobody could give her a straight answer as to what Master Zhao’s training would consist of. The only whispers she could get were that his last pupil had died from it. None seemed very hopeful that they would see her again, after it began. At her own request, she tried to converse as much in Pandaren as she could. If she were to live here for an extended time, it would be best if she learned the language.

Finally, the long awaited day had arrived. Kelci hugged a heavy blanket about her shoulders as they trudged back up into the mountains of Kun-lai. She’d grown more accustomed to moving about in the snow, and her hooves found more purpose with each step. She bore a look of confidence, and was eager to finally begin.

“Nearly there, Kelci.” Daolong called out from just ahead. “We will be going off the path, up here. Follow the sounds of my footsteps.” It was easy enough to do. Daolong wasn’t small, even by Pandaren standards, and his steps were heavy and clear.

Kelci nodded back, “Where are we going, Dao?” She asked, curiously. She’d grown to see him more as a friend than anything else, falling back into a casual, familiar tone.

Daolong clicked his tongue. “Ahh, you forget yourself. I am Master Zhao, to you. Today, your training begins.” He chuckled, heartily, “Do not forget your place, my young pupil.”

Kelci frowned, “You do remember I’m older than you by nearly three thousand years, yes?” She paused, but added, “...Master Zhao.” If it meant her overcoming what she’d lost, she was willing to swallow her pride. Not that she had much left, anyway.

“Mm, good.” Daolong continued to chuckle. The sound of his footsteps stopped, replaced by him grunting and stone grinding against stone. “Ahh, this will do. Come here, Kelci.” He spoke loudly and clearly, so she could find him. “And tell me, what do you know of the Mogu?”

Kelci followed the sounds of his voice easily, stopping when she figured she was very close. She gripped her staff in both hands; the same one she’d cut that first day in Pandaria. “Ahh, not much, really. I’ve heard only a little, since I got here. From what I understand, they’re like… evil, animated statues, right? Something like that?”

Daolong took a few moments to speak again, rolling over the thoughts in his mind. “Hm, close enough. Just know that if you do ever meet one, it will try to kill you.” The rest of the story could come another time. “And also, they have tombs scattered across the mountains. Like here, for instance.” He gently led Kelci forward a little ways. Her hooves started to click on stone beneath, rather than snow, and the air grew musty and dull. They’d likely entered a cave. Kelci wrinkled her nose at the smell of the old air.

“Right, so they’re bad. I got it. What does that have to do with anything?” Kelci didn’t mind the history lesson, but since they were supposed to be training, now, it seemed less relevant. “Also, are we underground?” Though he had grown much quiet, Kelci was still able to stick near Daolong.

This seemed to delight the Pandaren. “Yes, we are underground. And I make sure you know, just in case you meet one.” There was the sound of air moving around his arms and a soft, soothing feeling filled the air around Kelci. “I want you to feel this, right now. Hold onto it. Remember it. This is Chi.” He moved to be directly in front of her. “When you think you can sense the orb I’m holding, I want you to grab it.” An easy task, for someone who could see. “Usually, I blindfold pupils for this part. So you are at no disadvantage. Yet.”

Kelci breathed in the more refreshing air from his weaving. “Chi. Huh. I mean, I can feel it on my skin and in my lungs, but am I supposed to be able to… see it? Or is this something else?” She tried to concentrate on the feelings that the Chi had given her, focus inward on it, as he had said. Daolong refused to answer her questions, remaining silent. Kelci glowered. “...fine. Alright. I’ll try to just… sense it.” She took a deep breath. Her brows knitted upon themselves, and she grew still, going into one of the meditative trances Daolong had showed her.

There was nothing but the usual blackness. In her focused state, the air around seemed to pound inward. Her breath was laborious and filled her chest with tension. The feeling of the Chi she had been given was all that remained, and she poured her whole mind into it. There had to be more to it than what was on the surface. It was cool and soothing, but it had carried another feeling, deeper beneath. One of energy and life. It was on that feeling she concentrated, drawing herself further and further toward it. And then, there it was. A spark.

She reached out and swiftly reached for the space directly above Daolong’s hand. She had sensed the orb he was holding. She even picked up on the faintest outline of his hand beneath. Though not really sure how to do so, she took the Chi in her own hand. She could feel it, sense the movement of energy between her fingers. The warmth spreading from it. She continued to concentrate on that feeling, and brought the orb to rest near her chest, holding it with both hands. “...sorry that took so long.” She said.

Rather than his usual silly nature, Daolong was, in a word, dumbstruck. “No, Kelci, I’ve… never had a pupil so quickly perform that. And certainly never on their first try. And to be able to not just maintain the orb, but grow it…” He sounded legitimately impressed, and laughed. “You will be fine. You may do with that orb as you wish, but I wouldn’t recommend spending too much of your energy on it. You’ll need it for other things.” He turned in place and began to walk.

Kelci balked at the idea, “What? No way, surely you’re not serious. You just say that to motivate new students, right? It’s okay, you do--” The Chi orb abruptly dissipated in her

Daolong turned back and said rather sharply, “I don’t lie about anything. Nor do I paint things as anything less than they actually are. None of what I said is untrue. The first step on your journey is going to be to stop doubting yourself.” He sighed, “But I know how hard that can be. It will likely be the last step of your journey, as well.” He turned again. “I am going to lock the door. I will come back for you in three days. If you are alive, then we can begin. Water can be found somewhere in this cave, as can some limited food. And also Mogu.” He chuckled, “So be cautious. Remember the sense of that Chi you held. That will save your life.”

“Wait-- three days?!” Kelci sputtered, running for him. Her hoof caught on an edge of stone and she stumbled, instead, having to halt. “Master Zhao!” She was too late. The sound of stone on stone told her that the door had been closed. A heavy sound against it told her it had also been locked. She reached it just in time to pound a fist against it. It was in vain, however. She couldn’t hear anything through the stone. Several minutes went by before she could drag herself away.

She had to fight back a feeling of dread building up in her. She wasn’t ready for this, not by a mile. “Three days in a cave full of stuff that wants to kill me.” She sighed out, softly. Having put it to words, she realized it might not be the best idea to speak aloud, anymore. Three days could feel like a long time, or they could pass in an instant. Her best option was to give herself purpose. First, find the water Daolong had spoken of. Thankfully, in the musty air, her hoofsteps didn’t echo as loudly as they normally might have. Likely that the ceiling was lower to the floor, as well. By finding purpose, she could make the days seem shorter.

It took nearly an hour of searching, but through sense of smell and careful movements, she found water. Another hour after that, the bottoms of some hopefully not poisonous root vegetables. For a reason she couldn’t quite place her finger on, she just kind of knew that they were safe to eat. The same with the mushrooms she found. Some gave her a bad feeling, while others felt safe. She gathered up as much as she could, taking it back to a makeshift shelter, near the water source. All of the going was slow, as she had to grope her way around the walls and be careful with her hooves along the rough, stone floor. The first day went by rather quickly and uneventfully. Maybe there was no threat, after all.

On the second day, she awoke to a sinister laughter coming from deeper within the cave. It made the hairs on her arms stand completely on end just by the sound of it and sent a shiver of dread down her spine. Whatever calm had set in after the first day was quickly pushed aside in favor of a gripping, gnawing sense of fear. She stumbled awake, hooves scraping on the stone floor, and she reached for her staff, gripping it tightly in both hands. If there was any advantage she had, it was that whether it was light or dark made no difference, to her. Although, she had no idea if Mogu could see in the dark. Assuming what she heard was Mogu and not anything else. It took effort to force the negative thoughts from her mind, but one remained above the others: doubt. Kelci doubted herself. Doubted her ability to survive, doubted her very nature. As much as she pushed it down, it kept surging back up, biting into her mind. “I’m going to die here,” she whispered to herself. She almost believed it.

It was that ‘almost’ that kept her going. She only almost thought she was going to die. Something sparked in her. This doubt wasn’t natural. She had plenty of doubt, to be sure, but she never fell this far into it. Something one of the passing Monks had said came back to her. A legend.

“The last breath of the ancient slain,

Which breeds one’s doubt to fear in vain,

And though despair may take the mind,

It is only anger found in kind.

And soon from anger hatred breeds,

Where after are only violence’s seeds.

Each of these falls prey to pride,

The last breath, from which one cannot hide,

Where in darkest depths they draw,

They wait beneath in caverns deep,

The Sha.”

“Sha,” She whispered the name to herself. It was a name she’d heard before, in some of the stories travelers had told about Pandaria. Nobody seemed to say or know very much about them, beyond that they were terrifying. She ran through the lines of the legend in her head, again. “Doubt.” She hissed, shutting her mind to its influence as best she could. This wasn’t her doubt; this was something from some creature, deep beneath the stones. She tried to push herself back to her meditative state; of a clear, balanced mind. Like how Daolong had taught her. And slowly, as she sought that feeling of serenity once more, the doubt started to trickle away. Furthered in her resolve, she only focused more, until she found herself wholly at peace.

A long exhale escaped her lips. “You will die here, mortal!” A wicked sounding voice echoed off the walls, startling Kelci out of her trance, “And your soul will feed the rebirth of the Mogu empire!” Heavy steps that sounded like stone on stone carried just as much as the voice did, and Kelci scrambled up to her hooves, heart beating through her chest.

That sense of fear threatened to break through her mind, but she managed to push it back down. She stilled her breathing as much as she could, and tried to step as lightly as possible. Back and away, she moved, using her staff to feel the wall behind her, looking for a place to hide. It would be difficult to fight. She hadn’t fought anything in many, many years, though her body seemed to remember the stances and grips of doing so. Staves weren’t her preferred weapons, but she had trained with them all the same. She shifted into a defensive stance, holding the light bamboo keenly out before her. As if she could see any of the attacks coming.

Then suddenly, an opening. There was a small inlet in the wall and Kelci scrambled inside. She hunched in as much as she could, trying to still her breathing. She hadn’t been followed as she moved; she would have heard something. What she could hear, however, was her makeshift sleeping area being ransacked. The scrape of metal on stone filled the cave with the same sinister laughter from before. “So you’re trapped here, little one!” The same voice called out, “And now, you have no food. Or water. How long can you survive, hm?” Heavy footsteps drew closer and Kelci halted her breathing, completely. “Better to die by my axe than suffer!” More laughter followed and Kelci had to brace a hand over her mouth to stop from crying out.

After what felt like, and very may have been hours, the footsteps passed by, then retreated back into the cave. Probably trying to lure her out of hiding. It would be hard on her resolve, but she had to stay here, for the time being. Stay still, and stay silent. Finally, just as she thought she might finally be safe, the footsteps returned. “Clever.” The voice cackled, “And so brave, in the face of doubt. But no matter. You can’t hide in the dark forever. You will come out, eventually.” Kelci didn’t move from that spot.

Another long, indeterminate period of time passed. Kelci was thirsty. And hungry. She’d been thirsty and hungry for more hours than she knew, by now. She had no idea how long it had been since she’d hidden here, or even how long she’d been in the cave. Daolong said he would be back in three days, but it was all but impossible to tell how much of that had passed. Whether or not he had come, decided her to be dead, and left her. Her back and hooves were hurting from this cramped space. She’d tried to adjust into a more comfortable position, but it was of no use. Even for someone as small as Kelci, this was a tiny space. “Going to have to face it, eventually.” She murmured to herself, and nodded. She had a plan. Head for the place she’d stayed, try to scrounge up what food she could, get some water down her throat, then make for the exit. Even if it wasn’t yet time, it had to be close. If time had already passed, maybe he’d left the door unlocked. “Move, Kelci.” She told herself, and carefully pushed out of the shelter.

The cave was silent. Kelci sighed. Gripping her staff, she made her way back in the direction of her camp. Her hooves were louder on the stones than she wanted them to be, but there wasn’t really anything she could do about it. Draenei aren’t quiet on hard floors. She reached the spot without incident. It was slow going, as usual, but something about it seemed easier than before. Just before her staff would connect with something, she sort of knew it was going to happen. To the point that at the spot where she’d slept, she didn’t need to tap her staff against anything. She just kneeled down to examine the scene with her hands. Her heart sank a little.

All the food was crushed. Inedible. It would be near impossible to find any more with the Mogu about, so she’d have to just go without. With the emphasis on haste, she moved to the water, only to discover a foul stench coming from it. Poisoned. “So no water, either.” She whined, slumping against the wall and thumping her horns into it, repeatedly. “Damn it. Come on, Kelci, you’re not dying in here.”

“And that is where you’re wrong, mortal!” The booming voice returned, very nearby. Kelci hadn’t heard anything. Was it just laying in wait? Her only instinct was to jump backward, away from where the voice had come. It was just in time, too, as the sound of something heavy and metal hitting the stones rang out with cacophonous fury. “Ooh, you’re a quick one.”

“My people aren’t mortals,” She retorted, as if that was going to get the Mogu to back off. “We’re ageless. We existed long before you, and we’ll exist long after.” The staff was steady in her hands as she faced the direction from which the voice had come. She was far enough away, now, that she should hear any action. Any move to attack her. The darkness of the cave was of no consequence, to her. There was no escaping the fight, this time. She shifted her stance to a defensive one, ready to react to the first sound she heard.

And hear she did, the brute just calmly strode forward, heavy footfalls thumping against the stone floor. “Not mortals, hm? You can still die.” Kelci heard stone move and the sound of air being pushed past something. That same feeling of instinct thrust her to move, as well. She dodged to one side and struck with her staff. Somehow, it rang true. The hardened bamboo connected with the Mogu’s leg, and it stumbled. Stone scraped across the floor. She was faster than it. Much faster. An opening. She struck again, this time aiming for what she hoped was just below its neck. Once again, her staff rang true, beating into the Mogu hard enough to send it sprawling. Her mind flowed and roared, focused on the feeling of Chi, like she’d been told. But it wasn’t just her mind. She could feel something surging through all of her. Energizing her. She could win this.

The Mogu roared in angry defiance, pushing itself up and spinning back toward her with an arc of its blade. Kelci’s dodge was just barely quick enough, and she now sported a thin slash on one arm, though it was only deep enough to hurt and to bleed a little. The Mogu’s movements were filled with anger. They lacked any control or form, and were easy enough to reason out where he might strike next. Something in her head willed Kelci to try another attack.

Skidding back from the dodge, her hoof caught something on the stone for support and she used it to leap forward, turning with her hips to deliver a sharp kick to the monster’s chest. If there were lungs in it, they would have emptied. Instead, it staggered back, stumbling over itself, and the blade fell from its hand with a loud clang on the floor. Kelci dove for it. It was good she was faster; she got there first. Much to her dismay, the Mogu’s spear was almost too heavy for her to life. Three hundred years ago, this would have been easy. She grunted. All she could manage to do is pull it out of the monster’s reach, but she stumbled in doing so. And her hoof stepped on a panel in the floor that clicked.

Whether it was luck or instinct that saved her, she dove out of the way again, just as a flurry of arrows shot from the ceiling and pounded into the stone where she’d stepped. Not quite fast enough, though. One of the arrows pierced her leg, just above the hoof. Her shrill cry of pain filled the echoing cavern. She tried to put her weight on it, but nearly toppled over, again. This was bad. How was she supposed to keep fighting like this?

The Mogu just laughed at her. “Poor little girl. Finally out of tricks?” It probably didn’t need more than its fists to kill her. She attempted to strike, but her balance was so off, the staff carried no weight behind it, and the Mogu simply knocked it aside, the gripped her about the neck and lifted her off the ground. It must have been full foot or two taller than her. “I told you that you would die here, though you made it much more fun than I thought it would be.” His grip tightened, “Goodbye, little goat.”

This was it. Nearly three thousand years and she was going to die, alone, in a tomb. Her breath was fading and it felt like her skull might crack if it gripped her any harder. This wasn’t the life she had promised. To Anu and to Ki. “No…” She gasped, tugging at the Mogu’s arm with both of her hands.

“No?” it laughed back. “You’re alone, trapped in a Mogu vault. You will die here and your soul will awaken another of my brothers.” A he, then. Kelci hadn’t been able to tell until now.

“No!” She repeated, more firmly, and something burst from her. The energy from earlier, the Chi, it welled up within her and she somehow knew that she could force it out. With the strength of will she had left, a burst of Chi and force came from her hands and into the Mogu’s arms, blasting them apart. The sounds of a million little stones raining on the floor beneath were a sign of her victory. Though she fell on her wounded leg, she didn’t feel any pain.

The beast roared in fury. “You little-- You’re a Monk?!” He sounded incredulous, still staggered from the blast. He fell to his knees.

“No,” Kelci repeated for the last time. She was smiling, even though it was likely too dark to see. “I’m only a pupil.” She put her hands together right by the Mogu’s face. Another burst like the first one came from it, and the monster’s head shattered like a dropped vase. She breathed out, heavily, and whatever that rush of power was, left her. The pain in her leg returned in force, and she fell to the ground. Her tail coiled in pain close about her and she began to fumble around for wherever her staff had gone. Her hand touched cold bamboo. She sighed in relief. “At least you’re intact.” With whatever purpose she could muster, she began to head back toward the direction she believed to be the door.

“Kelci!” Daolong’s voice called out. It seemed like she need not struggle to get there and a flow of overwhelming relief toppled through her pain. “I felt a terrible sense of dread when I opened the door. A feeling of doubt flooded me--” He stopped short when he saw the scene. “Yu’lon’s breath… a Mogu war-captain. And you brought him down, all on your own?” He noticed her injured leg. “...I am sorry. I chose the tomb poorly. I have not scouted this one in many years, and I assumed it still empty. There was a possibility of lesser Mogu, but not something like this.” He crouched down and fussed over her leg.

Kelci was too shaken to protest. “I’m fine,” She lied. Daolong poked the arrow, gently, and she cried out in pain. “...okay maybe I’m not. But I’m alive.” She laughed, knowing that she was safe had pushed out all else. “Has it been three days?”

Daolong laid his hand near the arrow, still run all the way through her leg. “You’re alive. And it has been three, almost to the hour.” If he had noticed anything about how she defeated the Mogu, he didn’t say. “This is going to hurt a lot.” He gave a warning with just enough time for Kelci to brace herself as he pulled the arrow out of her leg in one smooth motion. Though she didn’t cry out, this time, a wincing moan escaped instead. She whimpered. “You’ll be alright,” Daolong reassured, “We will get you outside and I can heal a wound like this,” and without even asking, he lifted her like a child.

“Did I do well enough that you’ll train me?” Kelci asked as she was being carried. The pain had lessened, but only somewhat. She was surely leaving a trail of blue blood behind.

Daolong just laughed, “You accomplished far more than I could have ever expected of you. It would be my absolute honor to be your Master.” He sounded genuine, even in his surprise at what she had done. “No pupil has faced a first challenge so difficult, and most of them have failed or died on the easier ones. You might be something special.”

Kelci relaxed and closed her eyes. “Thank you for your kind words. It would be my honor to train under you, Master Zhao.” She smiled. “Though, first I could really use some food. And water. And a bath.”

A hearty chuckle overtook Daolong. “I could never say no to that!” He grinned and led her outside of the tomb. Her first real training. She probably should have died, but somehow, had come out on top. Only the first challenge of many more to come.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 12 - Spending Time with Her Family

Kelci never had a traditional family. Her parents died when she was very, very little, so growing up her only family was her friends, Aranu and Ki’ieri. Finally, later in life, she can enjoy what she never had with her Wife. Have a giant sappy mess as they debate over baby names.

The mists were thicker than usual, today, outside the Shadeleaf home. Both Kelci and Hiwa were tucked away inside, though the windows were open to the let the cool evening air in. The Jade Forest was so peaceful, at night. It was no wonder they’d chosen to live here. Inside, the two were laughing on the couch. Kelci was leaned back on Hiwa’s lap, grinning as her wife laughed at a story. “And then,” She continued, “I kicked her so hard she went flying! And that’s how I got my first pupil.”

Hiwa cackled and wedged her fingers in Kelci’s hair, stroking the smooth horns with her thumb. “You’re ridiculous, my love.” She shook her head and giggled again at the idea of an Orc getting beat up by Kelci, “And that’s why I love you so much. Though, promise me you won’t teach our child in that way. When we have one.” She wasn’t serious; she knew Kelci was the most caring person in the world. “But anyway, that worked? And you trained her?”

Kelci giggled back, snuggling her head in closer with the horn rub. It was hard to explain why, but she loved them. “It did! I trained her for the whole week I was there. It went so well they kept inviting me back. I’ll still do Master classes, now and then.” She smirks, “They still call me ‘The Blind Master’ there. It’s a fun little title, even if I’m not blind anymore. Nobody seems to care.” Shifting a little so she can see up into Hiwa’s eyes, she let out a happy sigh. “...when we have our child. I like the idea of that. Are you any closer to figuring out how to make that… work?”

Hiwa lifted her arms to let Kelci adjust, then returned to her horn-strokes. “I uh. I’m still on the ‘pop a tincture, throw in some growth magic, hope it works’ plan. It still needs some testing. I’ll get to that later.” She shook her head. This was a rather difficult problem to solve, given the boundaries they faced, being of different races and both female. Still, she was convinced they could make it work. Somehow. “But hey, that reminds me! Did you have any ideas for names? Unless I misunderstand, were we to have a child, that child could only be female.” She smiled down at Kelci.

Kelci went a bit more solemn at the question. It was a more serious matter. “I… had one in mind. Since we will have a daughter, I would like to name her… after Aranu.” She sounded hopeful, looking up at her wife’s face with a faint sparkle in her eyes.

Hiwa seemed apprehensive. “Ah, while I am all for honoring her memory, as she is the only reason you are here, alive, and in my arms, I do not think that naming our daughter after her is the best way to do so. Our daughter would be a fresh start, for the both of us. Free of the tragedy in our pasts. She does not need to be linked to that.” She continued to stroke Kelci’s horn with her thumb as she spoke.

Kelci frowned, only a little, but this was an important enough topic that listening to her wife’s words was important. "But, just hear me out, my love. Aranu was the most... lively person I've known. She was always so animated, so just genuinely full of life and energy and an infectious joy. She made my life happier and more fun simply by existing.” She smiled at the memory, “She would have adored you. I want to honor that part of her memory, and bless our child with the name of someone so... alive."

Hiwa let out a long sigh. Kelci had good reasoning, but there was still something she couldn’t quite get past. "I understand that, my love, but it feels a little like... almost as if you're bringing someone else into our marriage.” She offered an apologetic smile, “By all means, honor your friend. It would be hypocritical to stop you. But our daughter does not need to be marked by the pasts that have shaped us. She will be her own person." 

Kelci extracted herself to sit up, though their shoulders still touched and let out a long sigh, staring into Hiwa’s eyes with love. “...it’s better than naming her after Ki’ieri.” She almost laughed. Almost.

“Oh, yes, after your ex. That would be… worse.” Hiwa did laugh, which made Kelci join in. ”We could just as easily name her after my sister, or my cousin, or Vana. She does not need to be marked by tragedy." She leaned in to kiss Kelci’s head, just between her horns. "We honor the dead in other ways. Children who never met them should not have to bear those names."

Finally, Kelci conceded the point, "You... do bring up a strong point, though. I would love her no less, but... perhaps it is simply a desire to have my friends back in my life, again. I miss them both terribly, even still." So many names in her history were now gravestones. Such is the way of all Draenei.

"I know, my love. Just as I miss my sister.” Hiwa clasped kelci’s hands in her own, intertwining their fingers. “There are better ways to remember them."

Kelci tilted herself upward and kissed Hiwa on the cheek, embracing her. "Alright. You are right. Thank you for hearing me out." A grin spread across her lips, "...but that means we need new baby names!" She had another in mind, as a backup. "How do you feel about 'Keleas'? It means 'mercy.'”

“Keleas. It’s pretty.” Hiwa nodded in approval. “I feel like a Draenei name is appropriate, as you will be carrying her.”

“Well,” Kelci grinned, “She will still be a Shadeleaf. A Draenei name and an Elven surname. Our daughter will be a mix of the two, much like I am.” She draped an arm around Hiwa’s shoulders, “A name I bear with pride!”

“Exactly.” Hiwa grinned right back, “Let her be a mix and match, like her parents.”

Kelci had to stretch, but reached Hiwa’s forehead, planting a soft kiss there. “You are my starlight.” She says, softly.

Hiwa’s heart melted. “....that was adorable. I love it. Keep using that.” It was a new nickname Kelci had never used before, and Hiwa just adored it.

Kelci sighed contentedly, “I will.” She laid her head back down into Hiwa’s lap, careful not to poke anything with her horns. “This is… so nice. A night just to ourselves, to plan our little family. I love you.”

“And I you,” Hiwa went right back to stroking Kelci’s horn with her thumb, the rest of her fingers on that hand tangling into the Draenei’s hair. “If I am your starlight, then you are my morning mist.”

Kelci turned her face into Hiwa’s tummy. “Dork.” She said in a muffled voice, reaching to clasp Hiwa’s free hand.

“You love it.” Hiwa teased down at her.

“...I do.” She said with a sigh. Tonight was good. Everything was good. After so much they had both been through, not just together but before, finally their lives were happy and full of peace.

[clairetherose]

Draecember day 3 - Losing Something/Someone Important

Back to back, Kelci and Aranu stood against a horde of oncoming demons, greatswords gleaming in the chaos and Fel energies around them. The battle had been raging for some time, and in her zeal, Kelci had dragged Aranu far off, away from the others. They stood alone, but confident, hooves planted firmly on the firm ground of some far off world.

“Tired yet?” Kelci shot over her shoulder. A grin plastered her face. She lived for these battles, and always strove to push herself harder in each one than the last. It was a miracle Aranu could keep up with her.

“You wish!” Aranu retorted, “Not until I’ve matched your number.” Despite being a full two heads shorter, Kelci was the much more ferocious warrior of the two women, and always won these contests. Aranu knew it was pointless, but if it meant Kelci getting stronger, she was willing to put up with these little trials.

“Then we’ll be fighting forever, Anu.” Kelci laughed and sprang forward, striking at a Felhound. Her sword split the demon’s skull right in two, and it fell motionless. “And that makes thirty!” Aranu had been trading blows with a Shivara, but finally got in a solid kick that knocked it back. Kleci rushed to aid, and in one slash, cleaved the demon in half by the waist, “Make that thirty-one!”

Aranu took a breath and smiled at her friend, ignoring how blatant it was that Kelci had just stolen the kill from her. She was happy for the break, but things were looking worse all the time. “Cici,” she said, staring at the carnage around them, “We’re overextended. We need to get back. The Genedar will be ready to leave any time now.”

Kelci had engaged in fighting a pair of Felguards at once. She leapt into the air and drew her sword above her head. In a whirling slash as she landed, she struck them both down in the same attack and yelled triumphantly, “Ha! No way, let met get to fifty!”

Aranu growled and rushed over to her. “There will be another day to fight demons!” She shouted, gripping Kelci’s shoulder in one hand, “Come on, I am not watching you die out here.” There was that worried tone she always had when she was much too serious to be reasoned with. No point in arguing, now.

At the touch, Kelci softened and turned. “Alright, alright. I’m sorry. You’re right.” She sighed and reached up to put a hand on Aranu’s shoulder. “What would I do without you?” Aranu just rolled her eyes in response and began to walk.

The moment was cut short by a wicked cry in Demonic. Though she could not see the source, Kelci could not miss the bolt of Fel streaking toward Aranu’s back. A million thoughts raced through her head all at once, but it was instinct that took over. She only had time to shove Aranu out of the way and to step in front of her friend, into the path of the Felbolt. It was mere luck that she managed to bring up the flat face of her sword in a vain attempt to block the spell.

“Cici, no!” Was all Aranu could get out before the impact. With a shrieking crack that tortured the ears, Fel met sword. The weapon’s crystal was never meant to take this kind of blow, and both it and bolt shattered, just inches from Kelci’s face. A searing light in green and red filled her vision until it was all she could see. Then, suddenly, there was nothing. She could still hear the chaos of the battle, but her eyes perceived none of it. She tried to blink, to clear her vision, but it was to no avail. The impact had left her shaken, but okay, other than the searing pain coming from her eyes and face.

Kelci felt Aranu grab under her arms and hold her from falling. “Kelci! Say something! Are you alright?” The taller woman yelled in a panic. Kelci was able to move, and breathe, but was too stunned to do anything. She groped with one hand to her face, straining her eyes to see it. The motion hurt, a lot, and she realized bits of her shattered sword must be scattered all over her body. Even as hard as she tried, her eyes couldn’t perceive the hand she knew was right in front of her face.

“Anu, I can’t see anything. It’s just… black.” The words were more of a whimper than anything else, and she slumped down, only to be caught by Aranu’s steady arms. In a moment of realization, she had lost all hope or drive. What was she going to do? How was she going to fight?

“Come on, we’re getting out of here.” Aranu told her and tried to push her forward, “Can you walk?” Her tone was frantic and the sounds of battle were growing closer. “Damn, there’s a lot of them.”

Kelci tried her legs. They were weak and hurting, but they worked. “Yes,” she said, struggling forward a few paces, “Yes, I can walk. Barely.” In a burst of violent sound, a loud clang and a thud came from right nearby. “What was that?!” She asked, panicking.

“Nothing.” Aranu winced, “Keep moving, follow my lead. I’m getting you out of here.” There was a tug on Kelci’s arm to get her moving, and she had to refocus to get her hooves moving again. She realized she still had the now useless hilt of the shattered sword clutched in one hand, and dropped it. Not much good now, even if it wasn’t broken. She felt a flow of something warm where her body touched Aranu’s.

“You’re wounded!” Kelci cried, “Just go. Leave me, I’m useless like this. You’ll die if you’re dragging me!” Kelci slowed her steps and tried to wiggle free of Aranu’s grip.

Aranu only held her tighter. “Not a chance,” she grunted and continued to push her forward, “I told you I’m not watching you die out here.” Heavy breathing and grunting gave away that the wound was rather severe. “Come on. We’ll get you to the ship, get you healed.” Kelci could tell Aranu was smiling with her words, “You’re going to be fine.”

Kelci could feel her strength fading. The Felbolt had done its work well, and she couldn’t do this much longer. “Please, Aranu. Just go without me.” Though she couldn’t see it, she knew she had tears running down her cheeks, “I’m not worth you dying over.”

Aranu paused, grippin Kelci by the shoulders. She was likely looking right into her blinded eyes. “Kelci, you are absolutely worth dying over.” She said, forcefully. “Please,” she called out, to someone unseen, “Help her. She’s badly hurt.” Another pair of hands gripped Kelci from the rear and pulled her away from Aranu. A rush of voices came up all around her, all of them Draenei. Somehow, they had made it.

The head Anchorite spoke, his voice very close to where Kelci’s face was, “She is badly injured, but will live. Her eyes, though,” he trailed off sadly. No more needed be said. Kelci knew, from that moment, she would be blind, forever.

She didn’t care about that, right now, and pushed it from her mind. “What about Anu? Is she okay?!” Her words cracked, sobbing in her throat. She grabbed with one hand in the direction she last heard Aranu’s voice. A familiar hand gripped hers. “Anu! Anchorite, you can heal her too, right? ...right?” There was a long silence. Too long. “No, Anu! You can’t die!” Kelci brought her other hand over toe hold Aranu’s with both of them.

“I told you. You’re worth dying over,” Aranu coughed the words out. She sounded terrible, like she only had moments left, “Cici, I’m sorry. You’re going to have to live for both of us now. Please, just, don’t dwell on me. Make sure you find happiness in life.” She coughed up again, and it sounded wet. Blood. “I never told you, but I always loved you. For years now. I…” There’s one final pause, then softer than before, barely above a coughing whisper, “Goodbye…”

The tears took over Kelci’s face, “Anu! No!” She shook the hand gripped in her own, “Anu! Anu!” Her whole form was shaking, and her face fell, pressing the hand of her fallen friend to her forehead. “Anu… no… I can’t go on on my own. Please don’t leave me…”

The Anchorite set his hand gently on Kelci’s shoulder. “She’s gone, Kelci. We will bring her body with us, though, and you can help give her a proper burial.” It was of no use to calm her, though. Kelci was still sobbing, bent over Aranu’s corpse. And there, she would remain, until the Genedar finally arrived on Draenor.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 11 - Interacting with a Member of the Horde

Kelci’s first pupil was an Orc. They met in an... interesting way. There’s not very many good ways to meet an Orc, though, as a Draenei. She did alright.

As Yu’wu soared through the sky with Kelci in tow, she thought about the words of her master. She’d been training under Daolong Zhao for just over a year, now, and he was sending her off to teach a class of recruits at the Tian Monastery. Her tail coiled nervously behind her and she hugged her hooves tightly to the cloud serpent’s side. Yu’wu could sense her apprehension and gave a supportive sounding roar, circling down toward the monastery. “Ah, here already?” Kelci whimpered to no one in particular, having expected the trip to take a lot longer. She’d been too lost in thought the whole time. She didn’t think herself ready to teach anyone, let alone someone training at a formal monastery. Still, they had said they were anxious to meet the “blind pupil of Zhao from beyond the mists.” Or at least, that’s what Daolong had claimed the letter read. Kelci hadn’t sensed a lie on him, but that didn’t stop her nerves from flaring up as they came in to land.

Yu’wu spiralled around the grounds once, finally coming to stop in the central plaza, by the great bell. Kelci hopped off, her hooves clicking on the stone below as she landed. Nobody who could see could have possibly missed her entrance. Sure enough, someone approached her almost immediately. An older Pandaren, likely one of the Masters of the monastery. He addressed her formally, “Ahh, the pupil of Zhao. It has been a decade since he took anyone on to train under him. I am excited to see what you can do. May I have someone take your serpent?”

Kelci turned, following his voice and Chi to align herself with him, “Ah, no. Yu’wu can handle himself. He’ll come when I call for him.” She replied in Pandaren. Her time spent training had taught her the language, as well. “I am Kelci.” She introduced herself without even a hint of formality.

The nameless master lingered, silently for a while, taking her in. He seemed pleased that she could speak the language of the land so well. “...Kelci.” He repeated. “I am told that you are blind, and yet you have somehow endured Master Zhao’s training. I find that near impossible to believe, but he has never lied to me. And here you stand!” He chuckled, “Come. We have prepared a feast for your arrival. It is not often we get to entertain a Blind Master.”

Kelci moved to follow him, at first, but stopped, speaking up, “Ah, I am no Master. Still just a pupil.” She felt a sense of dread building up in her chest. How much had Daolong overstated her abilities?

“No? Well, I am anxious, anyway. Anyone strong enough to train with Daolong is a Master in my book.” He began to walk, “Now come on. We will eat and then you will meet who you will be training.”

Kelci sighed and followed. What had Daolong gotten her into? Just ahead was a massive table. Kelci could sense out the edges of it and felt the Chi of several people who were seated there. There were so many that her sense began to get fuzzy, sometimes blurring people together. Her head began to hurt.

“Everyone! This is Kelci, the Blind Master!” The man announced before Kelci could say otherwise. She was met only with cheers. She just kind of waved, awkwardly, even though she couldn’t see what was going on.

“Hi. I’m not really sure if I’ll live up to your expectations, but I guess there’s no turning back now, right?” Hardly a speech for a Master or a great fighter, but she was met with more applause all the same. As she was shown to a seat for the feast, she had to shrink her senses in to just immediately around herself. This was more people than she’d ever sensed at once before, at least in close proximity. Some of the temples held a lot of people, but never all gathered together like this. Was that why Daolong had sent her here? To learn to bear a crowd? Her headache was getting worse.

Finally, thankfully, the feast ended. Kelci had eaten very little, as she was wont to do when she was nervous, and smiled and offered her thanks when she rose, trying to slip away to find somewhere to meditate. A few caught her in passing to ask questions, to which she just mumbled half-responses. Requests to spar. Asking what Master Zhao’s training was like. Asking how she lost her sight. One even asked her on a date. That one she politely, but firmly, declined.

Finally, she managed to escape. There was an overlook on an outcropping nearby that held a single tree, stretching out to grasp more of the sun’s rays. Kelci practically fell beneath it and thumped her head back against the wood. “By Yu’lon… so many people. How am I ever going to train anyone when I can barely stand to be around the crowds?” She whimpered to herself. She was so frazzled that she didn’t notice someone approach.

“So this is the ‘Blind Master.’ Hmph. I knew these Pandaren were pulling my leg.” A voice spoke, just nearby, in a language Kelci recognized, but not one she’d heard in some time. She struggled to recall meaning, but got there eventually. Orcish. As she reached out with her Sense once more, she felt someone there, but unlike herself or like the Pandaren. So, every race did feel a little bit different, in their Chi. She quickly scrambled up to her hooves.

She replied, in somewhat broken Orcish. She couldn’t remember everything. “Blind, yes. Master is… debatable.” In a huff, she switched to Common, hoping this Orc could speak that, as well. Most could. “What is an Orc doing at a Pandaren monastery?” She asked, curious.

The Orc woman snorted and replied, “I could ask the same thing of a Draenei. Surely, you can’t be the one meant to teach me.” Her voice was irritated, and Kelci could sense the same on her Chi. “When they said ‘blind master’ I was expecting some old, grizzled Panda, not a waif of a Draenei girl.” She spat at the ground, “I bet you can’t even fight!”

Kelci took a step forward and planted her hoof, firmly. “I’m as confused as you are, as to what’s going on here. I’m no Master.” She sighed, and extended her hand in peace, “There is no reason to fight, though. We are not enemies. Not here.”

The Orc growled at her, but reached for her hand. Rather than shake, however, a tight Orcish grip pulled on her arm, trying to tug her off her hooves. Instinct kicked in, and Kelci found herself hardly defenseless. As she was pulled, her body flowed with it, and she turned in place. Using both arms, she gripped the Orc’s firmly and used the woman’s off-balance posture from her sloppy attack to flip the whole body over her head. The Orc hi the ground, hard, face down. Kelci planted a hoof on her shoulder blade and held the arm upward, twisted and ready to break. It had only taken a couple of seconds. “Please. There is no reason to fight.” She repeated, but didn’t loose her grip. “Are you going to do that again?”

“Just who the hell are you?!” The Orc barked up at her, trying to turn her head to look. The Draenei stood firmly in place, and she couldn’t move hardly at all, a sharp hoof wedged perfectly between spine and shoulder. “Okay, okay! I give!” She relaxed, as much as she could.

Kelci paused. She could tell the Orc woman wasn’t being completely honest with her, but she decided to move her hoof all the same. Gently, gradually, she let the other woman stand. “Thank you. As for your question, my name is Kelci--” She had to stop her sentence abruptly to dodge an incoming punch. The Orc moved slowly and sloppily; relying on her raw strength to try and overpower Kelci. That made her attacks easy to read on her Chi, and easier to dodge. A few more flailing punches were thrown in vain before Kelci sighed and decided enough was enough.

With one particularly akimbo punch, Kelci brought up her arm to deflect with precise motion, taking all the energy from the hit and deflecting it to the side. At the same time, she delivered a palm to the Orc’s jaw, almost faster than eyes could perceive. The Orc staggered back, surprised by the hit. Kelci had put very little power behind it, and none of her own Chi. Just a swift strike.

“Stop that!” The Orc yelled, growing angry. She attempted a few more punches, but in her angered state, Kelci could read them even easier, and spent next to no energy dodging them. “Grr, hold still! This isn’t fighting!”

Kelci sighed. “Fine, then.” She said, calmly. She caught one of the Orc’s fists mid-punch and threw her arm to the side, spinning as she went. The other woman toppled off balance, nearly falling forward. In the opening, Kelci delivered a punch, this time with little held back, right to her gut. The sound of air swiftly leaving someone’s lungs came from the Orc, but Kelci wasn’t finished. As a last move, she delivered a single, sweeping kick, precisely aimed, that sent the Orc flailing backward until she fell on the ground, clearly defeated. “Like I said. I’m Kelci.” She actually smirked. She’d only ever had sparring matches, before this. And in reality, she treated this no differently. Master Zhao trained her hard, and never held back when sparring. “And apparently, I’m the Blind Master. I’ll be training you.”

The Orc woman coughed from the ground, but laughed at herself. “...works for me. Never had my ass handed to me so easily. You can call me Elrekah.”

Kelci reached down to help her up, and this time Elrekah accepted the aid without any hostility. “I look forward to our training, Elrekah.” She smiled. Her first pupil. Maybe the title she’d been given wasn’t untrue, after all.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 13 - Reuniting with a Loved One

So hey, I’m late again. I blame finals but those are finally DONE WITH. This one is set in modern day, if it’s not clear. This actually impacts current story. 

The twin moons sat low in the night sky over the beach just north of Karabor. A chill was picking up in the breeze, but Kelci didn’t seem to notice. She had her usual thick hood and mask pulled over most of her face, with only her scarred eyes showing through. Her hooves made sharp imprints in the sand as she walked, which filled with water as soon as she moved on. A great Raven’s caw broke the silence and placidity of the deepening night. Kelci’s hoofsteps carried her up a sharp slope and off the beach. Looking around, she smiled. She had still been blind throughout the entirety of the Draenor campaign, and she never got the opportunity to see what she missed. The world she lived on for nearly three hundred years, but never set eyes upon. It was high time she changed that. Karabor had been everything she expected, but that wasn’t what she wanted to see. There was a village, further away, that she needed to visit. She traced along the lower edge of an outcropping and continued to wander west. She hummed softly to herself; an old lullaby she used to hear people’s mothers use.

She traced over her memories of this place. Of the care and charity her people had shown her. Of slowly losing her strength and her confidence, falling into a state of personal despair. She used to think she would never amount to anything. And now she stood, strong and happy. She smiled. Life is good, sometimes, if one is willing to fight for it. Her mind had been wandering so much, she didn’t realize she had wandered into a village. Her old village, where she had spent her days, on the real Draenor. No, this Draenor was still real, but it wasn’t… the same one. “Hello there, Arkenon poros!” A voice called out in her native tongue. Kelci jumped, but caught herself quickly.

“Mists protect you. Well met.” She replied, forgetting she was speaking with another Draenei. She rarely did so, these days. It was a man who had spoken to her. Kelci recognized he was likely a guard, from his armor and manner.

“You look like you’ve come from the other world,” He commented. She could feel his eyes upon her, “I have never seen dress quite like yours, before. Your speech, as well. Is that an accent?”

She blushed, but offered a polite nod. “It’s from Azeroth, yes.” She hadn’t realized she’d developed an accent, compared to most other Draenei. Enough time around the denizens of Azeroth seemed to be having an effect. Her stance stayed as neutral as possible, not wanting to appear a threat in any way.

He seemed to give her a pass and asked, “What brings you out here so late?” He visibly relaxed, happy to see her not a threat. The Iron Horde might have been defeated, but this whole world was still on edge.

Kelci knew what she was here for, but struggled to find the right words, “Just wandering, I guess. Looking for someone.”

The guard gave her a long, appraising look. After this pause, he finally spoke, “Do you have the name of the person, or just looking in general?” His eyes scanned her presence again. Surely, she couldn’t have been the first person from her timeline searching for something from her past, here.

“Kelci, is her name. I think she used to live here.” Kelci felt odd asking for herself as if she were another person. Still, it might be best not to admit too much, for fear of causing a problem.

The man’s tone changed immediately, instead becoming somber, “Ah. You’ll want to check the graveyard, then.” That sounded about right. Kelci used to spend so much time there, when she lived here. She would go and talk to Aranu’s gravestone, as if the other could still hear her. Ki’ieri would stop by, sometimes, but couldn’t seem to reach her or help her to feel any better.

Kelci nodded. “Alright, thank you.” She bowed a goodbye in traditional Pandaren style, and departed. She knew the way to the graveyard without looking. The guard said something to himself as she left, but the only word she could make out was “odd.” It was a winding path through the village to reach the graveyard. This time of night, everything was quiet, all the people asleep. Familiar steps led her to the ground of the dead, swollen with new headstones from the war. Outside the graveyard, she pulled her blindfold over her eyes. It didn’t feel right visiting herself as she was, now. Something in her wanted things to be the same as back then. Even blindfolded, she knew exactly where she was going, and moved with purpose.

As she approached, she sensed someone else was at the location she knew to be Aranu’s grave. “Kelci?” she asked, expectantly. She had never sensed herself from afar, before. Or any of the people she used to know, for that matter. It was difficult to be sure.

The woman turned, “Yeah, you found her.” Her voice was familiar, but came from a person at least two heads taller than Kelci. The timelines were different. It must be one of those things altered. Silently, Kelci cursed her luck about getting the timeline where she was short.

“Is that you, then?” Kelci asked, though there was still doubt in her voice.

“What? Me?” The mystery woman replied, a twinge of sadness marring her voice, “Did you not… hear? No, she’s here… in this grave.”

Kelci’s heart sank like a stone in the dark sea. She was dead, here. Were things so different? Did that mean no one had saved Aranu, either? She stood in disbelief for a few moments, mouth agape. “When did she die? I had no idea.” She finally managed to get out a few words.

“It must have been the better part of 300 years ago, now. Did you know her?” The woman asked, sounding curious and mournful.

Kelci bowed her head in a nod, “In the other timeline, yes.” This didn’t make sense. None of it.

The other woman snapped her fingers, “That’s where I’ve seen armor like that.” She must have seen other Monks, before Kelci, “Kelci was my best friend for many, many years. She died… saving my life.”

Something sparked. The flame of recognition. Kelci took a step forward. “Who are you?” She asked, a mixture of fearful and excited for the answer. Could it be?

“My name is Aranu.” The woman gave in response, now seemingly as confused as Kelci, “Why? Who are you? Ki’ieri?”

Trembling, Kelci lowered her hood and pulled down her mask, exposing her whole face. She tugged off the blindfold, as well. “Hey, Anu.” She was fighting back the grin threatening to take over her whole face. This was impossible, but amazing.

Aranu looked from Kelci’s face to the headstone and back again, three times. “Cici!” She finally yelled and ran to pull Kelci into a hug, lifting her old friend a few feet off the ground. “But how? You died in my arms!”

Kelci giggled in midair, still being hugged, “It went a little differently, on my end. I lived, but lost my eyesight. You died saving me.” She hadn’t yet noticed, but they were both crying. Happy tears spilled down their faces. “You’re the one buried in that grave, on my Draenor.” She had a sickening thought. There was almost no chance the grave still remained and was untouched all this time. She decided to just move on, rather than mention it.

“So many years, Cici,” Aranu looked into Kelci’s eyes, “I don’t care if it’s a different you. I missed you.” Kelci was finally put back down, though she remained close, and rested her face on Aranu’s chest. “Wait, hang on.” Aranu interjected, before Kelci could respond, “Didn’t you say that you lost your eyesight?”

Kelci blinked. “Oh! Right! It was… cured. Though, that in and of itself was an ordeal I wouldn’t like to relive.” She giggled again and wrapped her arms around Aranu in their hug. “There are so many things I want to say. But all of it would take years.” Nervously, she bit her bottom lip.

Aranu laughed, softly, “You never used to do that, bite your lip, like that.” As she pointed it out, Kelci turned a deeper shade of blue. “It’s too bad Ki’s not here to see you. She would have been so happy. Well,” She sighed, looking to one side, “I guess she is. We buried her right next to you.”

Kelci’s blush faded and her expression turned glum, “She died in mine, as well. So many things change in that many years.” She said, trying not to fade into her memories. Instead, she had an idea, “...come back with me. To Azeroth. I’m sure there would be a place for you my friends and family. Please?” She wanted her friend back, now that they were together, right here.

Aranu gently pushed Kelci upright, “Kelci, as much as I would love to,” She looked around and sighed, “Oh, who am I kidding? I don’t have anything going for me, here.” She wrapped an arm around Kelci’s shoulder, like she used to all those years ago. “Sure, Cici. Tomorrow. I’ll get my stuff together. Come see you.” She grinned wide. “And may the Naaru help them all, we’re together again.”

Kelci bumped her horns against Aranu’s chin. “Together again! I can’t wait to introduce you to my wife. You’ll love her, I’m sure.” Kelci sighed happily at the thought of her wife and a loving smile spread across her face.

Aranu smirked, “You married? Didn’t you used to say you’d never settle down, with anyone?” She snickered and ruffled Kelci’s hair. “I can’t wait. I’ll see you then.” With another jovial cackle, she turned to leave. “I’m glad you’re alive, Cici. In any form.”

Kelci nodded to her departing friend, “Yeah, you too, Anu. I missed you so much.” The two shared one last look. Aranu winked. Kelci just rolled her eyes and headed for home. Today had been a good day; Anu was still alive.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 10 - A Turning Point in Her Life

(( Holy deadlines, Batman, we’re caught up! Finally. Guh. ))

The winds of Kun-Lai beat harshly against Kelci’s skin, and she hugged the travel cloak tightly about her shoulders. Her hooves crunched in the snow of the path through the mountains as she trailed behind a grummle who had agreed to show her to the base of Mount Neverest. That was where Daolong had mentioned she might find a master to train her, and she was keen to do so. Though she’d asked at every other town she passed through, no one had been able to recommend anyone else who might take on a blind student, though none of them seemed to hold much hope for her reaching the top alive.

“Friend goat,” the grummle said, stopping, “This is mountain you seek. To your left, try to follow path. Would offer you luckydo, but need them for trip back. Many yeti.” He bowed and headed back down the mountain. “Farewell, friend of the grummles! Do not freeze on mountain!”

“Ah, thank you. I appreciate you risking so much to bring me here.” She leaned on the bamboo staff she had cut, back in the Jade Forest. It had seen her through much, and she had come to see it almost as a constant travelling companion, more than just a guiding staff. “Light protect you,” She murmured, after he was out of earshot. She had received such kindness in Pandaria, since arriving. And while some of it felt like the same pity she was shown by her own people, much of it was more genuine. Just a desire to help and to treat her well. Pandaren were a wondrous people. She steeled herself and pushed toward the mountain.

At first, there was a path, with guiding posts every now and then. She was able to find them with her staff easily enough, and it was easy going. Of course, that wouldn’t last, and as she came to a landing, she found no more markers to guide her. The wind was growing sharper, and her hands were already numb on the bamboo staff. She’d come this far, though, through half a continent. She wouldn’t waste all this time.

Using her staff, she tried to find a place in the nearby ridge to start her climb, but everything here seemed to be sheer cliffs. She’d have to circle around behind the mountain and find another way up. She began to carefully edge around, feeling out as much as she could with her staff before proceeding. There was something, finally, just before the little ridge she was on turned into another sheer drop. This mountain was cruel. Kelci couldn’t let herself make even a small error, or she’d likely fall to her death. Satisfied, she hooked the staff into a makeshift sling for it on her back and moved to find handholds. The stone was cold beneath, but she powered herself through it. The going was slow, her having to grope around after every new adjustment to find another handhold. More than once she almost lost her balance, but was able to wedge the staff strapped to her back into a safe position, her heart threatening to beat out of her chest. Hooves were tricky on some parts of the stone; they threatened to slip off and fall, but she could find places to fit them into a groove in the stone, giving her perhaps more security than not. The title of mountain goat seemed appropriate, even if she might still be angry at it.

She came to another outcropping after some time and leaned into a sheltered gap in the stones, breathing heavily. The air was thinner up here, and she needed a minute to properly catch her breath. She rubbed her hands together under the cloak, trying to restore the warmth and feeling in her fingers. If only she’d had some affinity for the Light, she might be able to warm them that way. She had no idea how much further it was to the top, but she was determined to reach it. She wanted to have a chance to reclaim what she lost.

After she’d gained what warmth she could, Kelci started on the climb, again. The rest had reinvigorated her, and she pressed on with more speed. This proved a mistake. One of her hoofholds wasn’t as stable as she had thought, and while she was stretching for another grip with her hand, the stone gave out. Her other hoof slipped, and she was dangling by only a single hand. In the act of half-falling, her chest slammed into the mountainside, sending a twinge of pain through her and knocking the wind from her lungs. “Ahh!” She gasped, choking on the words. Somehow, her grip held, but it wouldn’t for much longer. She needed to find some other way to stay upright; this was a steep ridge and would surely mean death if she fell. With few other options, she gripped the staff on her back and wedged it as best she could into the stones, using it as the only support she could find. Thankfully, it worked. From there, she could find more grips and resting places for her flailing limbs, and continue her climb. She would have to keep using the staff this whole time, moving it from brace to brace, thankful that the bamboo was strong, even under these conditions. She had chosen her staff well.

After a grueling, indeterminate period of time, Kelci finally topped the ridge. Unbeknownst to her, she’d actually reached the peak. She thought it just a landing, at first, but she could only find sheer drops on every side. A warmth spread in her heart. She’d made it. “I made it!” She shouted, to nobody in particular, “Do you hear that, mountain? I bested you!” The winds spurred up, in response, buffeting her thin frame atop the mountain’s peak. All Kelci could do was turn into them and scream. An outpouring of emotion and accomplishment. She’d been told this was impossible, told there was no way she’d survive the climb. And sure, she’d nearly died many times, but through sheer force of will and endurance, she’d come out alive. She was hungry, every part of her ached, her hands and legs and chest and all of her was bruised, and she couldn’t ever remember being this tired, before, but she had made. Mount Neverest had been tamed. Defeated. Her cries were those of elation, feeling a lightness in her chest that had been missing for centuries. Weeping, she collapsed to her knees in the snow.

And there she sat for quite some time, though she did move to find shelter. There was a large statue erected atop the peak, though she could barely discern of what. In the statue’s shadow, she found a place safe from the biting wind and curled up to rest. Just a nap, that’s all. She had no idea how long it had been since she last slept, but it could have been days. She was told the master atop the peak would appear, when she reached it. Just had to give it time. Using what little supplies she had left, she was able to make a small fire and keep herself warm enough to not freeze to death. And then, restful sleep found her. No nightmares, this time. She was much too exhausted to dream.

She awoke to someone poking her shoulder with a stick. As she stirred awake, she grumbled something unintelligible. “Oh, so then you are not dead.” A familiar voice, filled with mirth, spoke down at her. That woke her up.

“Wait, Daolong?! What are you doing here!” She sat up, but shivered in the winds. Her fire had gone out while she was sleeping, and she was colder than she could even believe. “...it is so cold up here.” Her hands were shaking, but she moved to restart the fire. Even the supplies had been blown away, though.

Daolong laughed heartily, “You are looking for a master, no? Well, you have found one.” He draped a heavy, warm cloak over her shoulders. “I am so happy to see that you made it! When we talked, you seemed so driven. I wanted you to succeed, but I could not help you. My standards are what they are for a reason.”

Kelci was a bit bewildered by everything that had happened, and it took her a moment to register. “Wait.” She mumbled, brow furrowed. “Did you tell a legend… about yourself?!” She sounded incredulous. “Why didn’t you just tell me who you were from the start!”

The large pandaren chuckled, “Because you simply did not ask, my dear. You were so focused on yourself, your goals, your needs… you were very thankful for my kindness, but you did not take the time to try to know me. I was… apprehensive that your Chi might be out of balance, but in reaching this peak, you have proved me wrong!” He set a heavy paw on Kelci’s shoulder. The thick cloak was helping much more than her thin one, especially because it was much too large for her. “I will train you.” There was a smile on his voice.

“Wait. Really?” Kelci laughed excitedly, “I… I can’t believe it! Thank you! I won’t let you down, I promise!” She sat up more straight. “I’m… excited. And tired. And I hurt. And I’m hungry.” She laughed at herself, listing off her gripes. “I don’t suppose a bit of rest and some food would be out of order, before we got started?”

Daolong laughed, “Of course! We will come back down to a village, near here. I would never deprive someone of food!” He was in a jovial mood, his laughter echoing in his belly. “In one week, your training begins. Just know that the mountain, here, was the easy part.”

That didn’t deter Kelci for even a moment.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 9 - Caught Lying

((( Kelci doesn’t lie; this was hard. I had to go way back, back further than I ever have in her history, for this one. So, enjoy: )))

Kelci and Aranu sat, propped up against a wall, after a sparring match. Kelci had won, as usual, and Aranu was panting. The much taller woman shook her head, “I don’t know how you’re so good at this. I’m a thousand years older than you!” She laughed, “This is unfair.”

Kelci for her part, just grinned, “Well, clearly, being short is better after all.” She stuck out her tongue. “Actually, no, the only reason I didn’t win sooner is your longer reach. Just imagine if I was taller!” She giggled, teasing Aranu, just a little.

Aranu gasped, “That would be… horrifying. Cici, seriously, you’re scary enough. Stop it.” She looked up at those passing by, still breathing heavily. “You’re going to make some man very happy, when he’s not just terrified of you.” She patted Kelci on the shoulder, grinning.

“Pff, like I’d ever settle down with anyone!” The shorter woman retorted, standing up and sticking out her hand. “I think you’re just projecting, Anu. Besides! I thought you didn’t like men?” Aranu had never professed any feeling toward a man, but had pursued more than woman in Kelci’s memory.

Aranu took her hand and rolled her eyes. “Right, I forgot. The eternally single Kelci.” She giggled, “It would be pretty surprising to see you with… anyone, really. I don’t know if any man could handle you. It’s really too bad you aren’t into women.” She took Kelci’s hand and rose. The place where their people had temporarily taken sanctuary was fairly nondescript. It was far too scarce of resources for them to remain long, but it was good to put hooves on solid ground, again, rather than just the floor of a ship.

Kelci snorted a laugh, “It’s not likely to happen, anyway. Even if I… was interested in some girl.” She tried to hide her true feelings. Lie about them. It was easier if Aranu didn’t start feeling something for her.

Aranu gave her an odd, lingering look. “...if you say so. Hey!” She tugged on Kelci’s arm, pulling her off to one side. “Let’s go watch the Anchorites! I want to try and talk to Ki’ieni. Maybe she’ll go out with me, this time!”

Kelci let herself be tugged along, but shook her head at Aranu’s antics. “You’re ridiculous, Anu. Stop tormenting the poor girl. I don’t think she likes women.” In truth, Ki’ieni had tried to ask Kelci on a date more than once, but she kept insisting that she wasn’t interested in women. A lie, of course, but one she didn’t want Aranu to catch wind of.

There was no arguing the point, though, as Aranu skidded to a halt by where the fresh Anchorites were just finishing their training, behind a short fence from them. She grinned and waved, “Ki’ieni!” She called out, trying to get the woman’s attention. The Anchorite to be was younger even than Kelci, though not by that much, and exceptionally pretty. She more than looked the part of Anchorite, just a silvery wisp of a thing, grace in every motion and step. From her horns to her hooves, she exuded elegance. Just about the opposite of the two warriors who had just approached. “Hey! Ki’ieni!”

Ki’ieni sighed. There was no ignoring Aranu today, it seemed. When she turned, she was pleased to see Kelci with her, though, and quickly walked over. The other trainees giggled and ran off, some to waiting boyfriends or the like. “Aranu. Kelci.” She greeted each in turn, bowing her head. Between her horns was an intricate gold chain, with similar gold clasps at the bases and tips. As always, immaculately dressed in smooth, Draenic silks, she was a sight to behold. “How are the both of you?” Normally, she might have been more gruff with just Aranu, but Kelci was present. Best to be polite.

Kelci felt herself staring, just a little, and shut her mouth, hoping neither of them had noticed. Why did Ki’ieni have to be so pretty? It made the lie so much harder to maintain. “Hi, Ki. I guess Anu really wanted to get turned down, again.” She smirked.

Aranu glowered at Kelci, “I’ll wear her down eventually!” She laughed and turned back to Ki’ieni. “Ooooooon that note, Ki. Have you thought about it? I’ve seen the way you look at Kelci. I know you’re not being honest with me.” She winked and nudged Kelci’s shoulder, “But she’s a lost cause. Straight as an arrow. Me on the other hand…” She held her arms out to either side. The implication was plain.

Ki’ieni blushed profusely, “I-I…” She’d been caught. “Ah, damn. I’m found out.” She threw up her hands and smiled in Kelci’s direction, “Can you really blame me? There’s something about her…” They were both talking about Kelci as if she weren’t there.

“Hey!” Kelci shot back, “I’m right here! You could at least pretend I’m a part of the conversation.” She folded her arms and leaned forward against the fence. “Speaking of turning people down, Ki, how many times have I told you no?”

Aranu was surprised by that, gaping at Kelci, then over at Ki’ieni. “...how?! Look at her!” She pointed at Ki’ieni, “She’s the most stunning creature I’ve ever seen! Beauty and grace and-- Wait.” She looked to Ki’ieni, “I was mostly joking, you’re actually interested in Kelci? Of everyone on the ship who you could prefer over me, you pick my best friend.” She sighed, dejectedly.

Ki’ieni was caught off guard and her skin turned a darker shade of blue. The gold chain on her horns shook as she shook her head. “I’m sorry, Aranu. You of all people should know that the heart chooses strangely. It’s too bad, I’ve caught Kelci staring, before. Perhaps I misread that?”

Kelci swore in her head. Ki’ieni had noticed her staring. Now they were both looking at her. Her ears flushed and she turned away. “Yeah, well. You… take a lot of time on your appearance. I’m just… admiring. That’s all.” Still trying to maintain the lie.

Emboldened all of a sudden, Aranu walked to the other side of Kelci and bent down to look her in the eyes. “You… you’re lying to us, right now, aren’t you?” She grinned and gave Ki’ieni a mischievous wink. The Anchorite to be walked to a nearby gate and let herself through to join them on the other side of the fence. “Ki, I think she… might return your feelings, after all. I don’t know why she’d deny that.”

Ki’ieni smirked, feeling the hint of mischief from Aranu. Perhaps unbecoming of an Anchorite, but she was only in training. “Truly? Well then.” She moved over next to Aranu, looking down at Kelci as well. They were both taller than the woman, but that wasn’t anything new. Almost everyone was taller than Kelci.

Kelci bit her lip, looking between them. “...I uh. Okay so.” She was running through her mind, looking for excuses, but it seemed like she’d been caught. “The thing is, um.” Nothing was coming up. Nothing that made even an ounce of sense. She just grinned sheepishly. “...maybe?”

Both of her friends’ faces lit up. “I knew it!” They said in unison, then looked at each other and smirked. Aranu was first to speak, “But Cici, why lie about it all these years? Surely, you should have known that I of all people wouldn’t judge you for it.” She put a hand on her friend’s shoulder, “You more than know my own proclivities.”

Kelci wriggled out from under the hand, still embarrassed. “Well I… at first, I really wasn’t sure, to be honest. Because I do like men. And… I wasn’t sure if you’re allowed to like both?” Both of the other women looked at her, then at each other, then just laughed.

“Of course you are!” Ki’ieni chided her, “You’re allowed to like whatever you like, Kelci. Be that me or… Tig’aan, over there.” She pointed at a Draenei male who was busy stuffing his face with something in the corner. “...okay maybe not Tig’aan. But you get my point.”

Kelci sighed, “I… guess so. But then, when you… showed interest, I guess I knew that Anu was looking to do something with you.” She offered Aranu an apologetic smile, “I didn’t want to take that opportunity from her. It would have felt like I was betraying my best friend.”

Aranu ruffled Kelci’s hair. “You dork. Date the gorgeous woman, already. I’ll find someone else to pursue.” She winked at Ki’ieni, “Though really, she’ll get sick of you in a heartbeat. Then she’ll come running to me, I’m sure of it!” With a grin and a laugh she tried to put an arm around Ki’ieni’s shoulder. The Anchorite to be deftly evaded.

Kelci nodded, “Alright, alright. You’re right. Thank you, I’m… sorry for lying. And sorry it took me this long to come to my senses.” She looked to Ki’ieni. “I’ll… take you up on it, this time. I hope you had something in mind.”

Ki’ieni did indeed. The two of them saw each other a few times, but nothing dramatic came from it. Much to Aranu’s dismay, she was unable to convince Ki’ieni to see her, instead. Aranu would die in battle, not long after that. Ki’ieni fell with Karabor. Only Kelci survived of the three of them.

[clairetherose]

Draecember 2017 Day 5 - Discovering a New Place

(((((Yeaaaaaah we’re late again. I’ll be trying to get day 6 up as well, today, too. But here’s this. I’m not sure if it was on purpose, but I’ve somehow had all five days so far be from different points in Kelci’s timeline, showing five different major points in her life. She’s been through a lot. Thanks to anyone still with me <3 )))))

Even though she couldn’t see it, Kelci could feel and smell the cool mist around her as she used the handrail to guide herself off the boat. As she took her first steps onto Pandaria, her hooves dug into soft sand below, and the call of seabirds above mixed with those of other birds; ones she had never heard before. Between the spray of salt and the mists gripping around her, she felt like she was practically swimming through midair, taking each step very slowly. At some point on the trip over here, she had lost her guiding cane, and was having to feel her way around by groping about in each direction with her hands as she walked. It was very slow going, and she heard a couple other people bustle past her off the boat, eager to make landfall.

“Ah, hello miss,” A warm, heavy voice came from just in front of Kelci, “You ought to be careful. This beach is no place to be wandering about. Did you need help?” It was one of the natives, a Pandaren man, and if his voice was any indication, a very large one at that. If he had picked up on her blindness, he said nothing of it, a fact Kelci was thankful for.

“Well, normally I’d say no,” She began, but sighed, “But my hooves are sinking in the sand and I lost my cane on the trip here. So if you could just help me get off the beach, at the very least, I’d appreciate it, sir.” She sounded ashamed of herself for being any kind of bother at all, as if it were her fault things were more difficult for her.

It seemed like the man picked up on her troubles, because he gave her a hearty laugh, “Ohoho, don’t be silly, small one. You are no trouble at all.” He gently placed a guiding paw on her back and helped to lead her from the beach, talking all the while. “Though, I must say, you are so skinny. Do you never eat, girl? Come! I will get you some dumplings!” He was generous, at the very least.

Kelci ducked out of his arm when she felt more solid ground under her hooves. “No no, I’m alright. I ate before we landed.” She’d heard of the legendary appetites of Pandaren and wasn’t about to get accidentally roped into that. “Thank you for your help!” She smiled and promptly stumbled over a loose stone on the path as she walked. Miraculously, she kept up on her hooves without falling over. She just sighed.

“There is no harm in asking for help, if you need it,” The man repeated, joviality painting every word, “You said you lost your cane? Perhaps I can help you to find another one, hm?” He wasn’t mocking or taunting, if anything he sounded impressed by Kelci’s strength and conviction.

Kelci weighed his words. It would be all but impossible for her to continue in a new, unknown land without something to help guide her. And she did need a new cane. Her face was a mask as she considered things. “...that’s actually a good idea,” She conceded, in the end, “I could use a hand, yeah. At least until I can move about on my own, yeah? I’m Kelci, by the way.”

“Ahh, good. You need not worry on pride, my dear.” The rumbling voice came from somewhere to Kelci’s left, instead. She hadn’t heard him move, at all. “For I have none. Daolong Zhao. The honor is mine.” Based on how is voice changed and moved, he probably bowed when he said that.

“Arkenon poros, Daolong,” Kelci greeted him more formally, upon learning his name. “I suppose if you’re alright with devoting your afternoon to a blind woman, I’ll happily accept some help. I just don’t want to be a burden.”

“Oh my, is that your native language?” Daolong asked with a genuine, burning curiosity. “It’s so unique! Come on then, miss Kelci. You are only a burden if you cannot lighten your own load. Do not be so dragged down by worry.” He began to lean her, gently, again. “Come on, I know the perfect place. It is a bit of a walk, though. I hope that you do not mind.”

Kelci’s reply was warm, “It is Draenei, yes. And of course I don’t mind. Not at all! I wanted to experience the land myself, in whatever way I can.” Despite her loss of sight, she had heard so much, she needed to walk the paths and just feel the land around her. “There is something about this place. I’ve only been here a short time, and I already feel at peace. It’s… nice.”

Daolong paused in his guiding, “Mm, that is the way of our land. Peace, tranquility, and balance. We do not let negative emotions dictate our lives, as we have learned all too well the damage they can wreak upon a land and a people.” He ever so gently nudged Kelci forward, just so she could feel that there was the start of a flight of stairs leading upward. “We’ll be going up these, so be careful. They’re even, but just watch your step. They can get slick with the surf and the mists. Once we’re up and into the forest, things will improve.”

Kelci just nodded, slowly getting lost in the sounds and smells of the world around her. Even her hooves on the stones felt differently. All of it was gentle and welcoming, quite unlike anywhere she’d ever been before. Each new moment as they ascended the steps became another new memory for her. The constant mist tickled her cheeks, giving the whole of the land a feeling of mystery and wonder. The smell was unlike the cities and sheltered areas she had come from, far off from the sterile, dryness of Draenei structures, and altogether the opposite of the dingy, smelly human streets. This land was full of people, but allowed to live free and continue to be its own. Birdsong and animal calls, each unlike any she’d heard before, drew her into her surroundings.

It was slow going up the stairs, but Kelci managed. By taking the time to reach with each hoof before stepping, she could keep up the pace almost without aid. Daolong would murmur something when they came to a short landing, so she wasn’t standing there, groping about with her hoof for a step that wasn’t going to come. After some amount of time, Kelci couldn’t keep track, this place drove all notion of worrying about how long something was taken from her mind, they reached the top of the stairs and stepped out into a sprawling forest. Wind rushed up from the beach and through Kelci’s hair, blowing it over her face, but she just left it there. “This place is wonderful,” she smiled, grasping forward with an arm as if she could touch the very essence of Pandaria, “I feel at peace just being here. Thank you for the help, Mister Zhao.”

The Pandaren man just chuckled at her, “Please, just call me Dao. And I’m glad that you can find a way to appreciate my land, even without seeing it. You show wisdom for one so young and so small.”

Kelci continued to face toward the forest before them, but she replied, “I’m nearly three thousand years old, Dao. Young by my people’s standards, though.” She touched the skin around her eyes, “I’ve been without these for three hundred of those years. I was told by someone not to let that hold me back, and I try not to.”

The Pandaren was silent, for the first time. A bit in shock. “Three thou-- My girl, you’re making an old man feel like a young boy.” He chuckled heartily and patted her on the back. “You have been through much, I would guess, and to come out of that so strong is a testament to your character. So tell me, my dear, what brought you to Pandaria?”

He began to walk as he spoke, and Kelci followed. “I would like to tell you it was all discovery, but there’s a more personal reason, as well.” She stuck close to where Dao’s footfalls were, trying not to get lost in a forest she’d never walked before. “I overheard someone saying something about your Monks. That they can fight while blindfolded. That… not being able to see wasn’t something that stopped them. I wanted to see if that ability could be learned.”

Dao paused to think on that for quite some time. Her answer had not been what he was expecting. When he spoke, his words were slower and more thoughtful, “Well, that isn’t unheard of, no. But there are only one or two Masters in a generation who can do so for their whole lives. And even less who’d be willing to teach someone blind. Though,” He added, “There is one who might. But he refuses to teach anyone who does not come and seek him out, on their own. It is said that he sits atop Mount Neverest, the highest mountain in Pandaria, and meditates until he has a worthy pupil. But that climb is more dangerous, these days. I don’t know very many untrained people who could even attempt the climb, let alone survive it.” Though she couldn’t tell, he was giving Kelci an appraising look.

“Then,” She nodded, “That is what I’ll do. A cane first, and then this Mount Neverest.” She sounded like she meant it, and she did. It was her intention to find the Master on top of the Peak and to earn the right to be trained by him.

Daolong spoke no more on the subject, as they had just arrived in a grove of bamboo. “Ahh, here we are. There is nothing that makes a better staff than bamboo. And what is a cane but a shorter staff?” He released his guiding hand from Kelci and took a step back. “The best way to find something that is just right for you, is to do so yourself. Go around to the bamboo and find one that speaks back to you.”

Kelci nodded and moved around the grove, setting her hands on the stalks of bamboo as she wandered. There were some that felt thinner, others had more bend, or a softer stalk. Dao was right, there was a lot of things to be considered. “Speaks back to me,” She repeated, one in particular held in both of her hands. It was sturdy, but light. Durable, but with a bit of spring to it. Hard and solid, with a firm feel in her hands. This was the one. With a swift kick of her hoof, she split the stalk near its base, then again at the length she felt was right, for her. She’d taken Dao’s words to heart and made it more of a staff than a cane. If she was going to be traveling a long distance, it was better to have something that could be both.

“Here it is, and thank you.” She turned in the direction she remembered them entering the grove. There was no response. Daolong had left her be to find her staff. “I suppose I will have to find my own way, then. That’s probably for the better, anyway.” She turned and breathed in, gripping her staff in both hands. If the wind came from the sea, where the air felt more dry and smelled less of salt and water must be the right way to go. She arrived at a direction and she followed it, off into the mists.

It was that day Kelci would first hold the staff she would use for many years to come.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 16 - Celebrating Her Birthday

Yes, I’m very late. Yes, I’ve been absent. And yes, I’m picking up where I left off. I do want to finish these, in order. I have them all planned out. Some things happened in my life that drove me away from writing for this last week, and I had to force myself to sit down and do this one. I don’t feel it’s very good. But it’s an important step to getting me going again.

It had been a hell of a year. The war with the Legion had dragged on long, full of too many dead to count. So much had happened, but they seemed to be winning. Somehow, everyone Kelci was close to had survived. Whether from their own skill or just blind luck, they were all here. Hiwasawa, her wife. Cyllissa, a Kaldorei assassin, distant family of Hiwa’s. Aeschielle, another Draenei and Cyl’s fiance. Even Aranu, freshly arrived from the other Draenor, was there. There were a few missing faces, but those that Kelci considered her family had all turned out to celebrate her birthday. She was turning two-thousand, eight-hundred, and ninety-two, today.

Hiwa turned to Kelci with a smile, “Is this everyone, my love?” She looked around. These were all of their closest friends, or at least those still around. “Cyl keeps complaining about wanting to open the wine.”

Kelci snickered, “She would. But… no. I invited one other to join us. She mentioned she might bring someone along, as well. Give her another few minutes, alright?” She kissed her wife on the cheek and smiled. Hiwa just looked confused. Who else could be coming? Kelci laughed softly and shook her head, “It’ll be a surprise, love.”

As if fate had intervened on Kelci’s side, a knock came on their door, right then. “Perfect timing,” she nodded toward Cyl, who was nearest. “Get the door?”

The Kaldorei shrugged and did so, swinging it open. She was much taller than whoever was outside, as she all but obscured them from sight. “Oh. It’s you. Was wondering if you’d ever come see us again.” She called over her shoulder, “Kelci, it’s just some uppity twerp. You sure you want me to let her in? Oh! ...there’s actually two of them!” She stood aside, revealing a pair of Sin’dorei. Blood Elves.

One of them, most of the others in the room recognized. Mytherili, who usually just went by Myth, was someone they had encountered during the fighting on Argus. An incredibly talented spellcaster of just about every school imaginable. She held a unique sword at her side, the mark of a Timebender. The other had a similar look to her, likely also a mage. There was an odd, glowing rune at her neck.

“Myth!” Kelci called out, beckoning her inside. “I was worried you weren’t going to show up.”

Myth stepped in confidently. “Yeah, well,” She replied in perfect Common, “I’m not used to having to physically go to a place. I hate not teleporting. Sorry I’m late.” She realized her companion was still outside, and she turned, “Talera? Don’t stand outside like a street urchin.”

The other Sin’dorei, apparently called Talera, blinked. She looked apprehensive of the house filled with Draenei and Night Elves, but finally sighed and walked through the door, which Cyl promptly shut behind her. She spoke, also in perfect Common, the rune on her neck lit up with her words. “You’ll excuse me for being cautious around a group that would usually kill us on sight.”

From the back of the room, Aesch spoke up. “We could say the same of you, you know. Just be polite. Kelci wants you here, so you’re fine by all of us.” She looped an arm around Cyl’s waist, as she’d just walked back over to her. The Kaldorei tugged on one of her horns, playfully, then pecked her on the lips.

Myth just grinned, “You see? They don’t care about what we are.” She turned in place to address Talera in their native Thalassian. “I promised you these are good people. You know I wouldn’t lie to you.” Smiling, she laced her fingers with Talera’s, “Come on.”

Most of the others knew at least some Thalassian, but turned back to each other, not wanting to interrupt what seemed a private moment. Finally, when the Sin’dorei women finally joined the rest, did they turn. Kelci was the first to speak, “Myth, you didn’t introduce us. Is this your girlfriend?” She smiled.

Both Myth and Talera went red at the question. They hadn’t really discussed what they were. It didn’t seem important for how their relationship had been playing out. Myth spoke, “Uh, well, see. I think if we’re going by the strictest legal definition, I’m her… concubine?” Talera smacked her lightly on the back of the head. “Ow! I guess not that. Whatever, consort. Friend with a lot of benefits. Something like that?”

Cyl snickered, “I’ve been that, before. By choice, of course.” She gave a reassuring look to Aesch, “Uh, not with you, love. Some people before you. One of them I started to feel a thing for. Which was weird.” She grinned. Aesch just rolled her eyes. “You were all real.”

Finally, Aranu said something. Her Common was still rough, at best, so following the conversation was difficult. She spoke in Draenei. “Cici. I’m starting to feel like I’m a uh. What would this be, a seventh wheel?” She headed for the stairs near the back of the room. “Happy birthday and all, but--”

“Anu, stop.” Kelci cut her off. She got up from the couch and went over to her friend.

“What, Cici?” Aranu looked annoyed. “Everyone has someone, but me.” They spoke in hushed tones, so the rest of the group couldn’t hear them. The others began to converse among themselves, jovially.

Kelci just hugged her. “Oh shut up, you have me.” She refused to let go, despite some protesting. “You have friends here. I care about you, Anu.”

Aranu managed to struggle away. “No, Cici, you don’t…” She ran a hand back through her hair and over one horn. “Not just friends. You know I wanted more than that, back then, but now I see you so happy and I…” She tears away from her friend. “Tonight is just rough, okay? I know it’s your birthday, but I… I just have to go.” She headed up the stairs, quickly, hooves clopping on the wood as she went.

Kelci winced and sighed, heading back for the others. “Anu had to get to bed early.” She wished her friend could have joined them, but she understood. Aranu was already dealing with so much. They’d talk tomorrow, most likely.

Hiwa gave Kelci a knowing look, but said nothing. Aesch and Cyl swapped glances, a bit confused, but paid it no mind. Myth was whispering something to Talera, who still looked vaguely uncomfortable.

Worried the mood might have spoiled, Kelci retrieved a bottle from a hidden place under the couch. “How about we open some wine?” She smiled at everyone collected. “It’s--”

“Whitesun?!” Myth stared at the bottle, dumbstruck. Even Talera perked up at it. “That’s-- I had a best friend for a while who owned that winery!” Despite all her claims of being a “filthy commoner,” Myth always seemed to have a connection to someone or something important.

Talera gave her a look, “...you know the Whitesun house? I swear, Myth, you’re a better noble than I am, sometimes.” She laughed and gave her an affectionate squeeze.

“A noble!” Cyl snapped her fingers, “Well, that explains it.”

“Explains what?” Talera gave the Kaldorei a cautious look.

Cyl pointed at Myth, “Why you have such excellent taste. Would you just relax, already? It’s Kelci’s birthday.”

Myth blushed, Talera laughed, while Kelci, Hiwa, and Aesch just rolled their eyes. Cyl was up to her usual antics. The bottle of wine was opened, and shared. Another three or four went the same way. Kelci spent her birthday the way she most wanted; surrounded by her friends and those she considered family. Her heart ached for Aranu, but there was no easy solution. Still, as the night went on, even Aranu couldn’t stay sad. She came back down in the middle of the third bottle of line, to cheers and welcomes. The two Sin’dorei had managed to fit right in. And together, the celebrated the life of the woman who brought them all together.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 8 - Facing Something She’s Afraid of

(((( This is way late but it’s cute and sappy and I don’t even care I loved writing it ))))

Kelci felt as nervous as she looked. She had a plan for this. She’d spent the whole previous day getting that special tea. Someone had almost died so she could have a good first date. She wasn’t proud of that, but she’d healed them personally. “I hope they’re not all mad at me, now.” She sighed to herself and approached the designated meeting place. Outside the Shrine of Two Moons. She’d chosen Pandaria for a reason; it was the land she knew the best. As she walked out, she felt the Night Elf’s Chi, plainly. Despite only meeting once, it was memorable.

“Kelci! There you are.” Hiwa laughed, sounding relieved, “I thought you’d ran away or something.” She approached, quickly, and gave Kelci a hug without even realizing what she was doing. “...oh. Uh. Too much?”

Kelci smiled and embraced back, “Not at all.” She was relieved Hiwa was even still here. “I was afraid you might have reconsidered. There’s so much wrong with me, I thought all this too good to be true.” She laughed, depressingly.

Hiwa pouted audibly, “Well, now you’re lying to me. Because there’s nothing wrong with you. Don’t start this out on lies, Kelci.” Her tone turned to teasing halfway through, and Kelci could hear the grin on her voice; feel it in her Chi. She smiled back.

“Sorry, sorry.” She rubbed her hooves together, nervously. “I just… it’s been a long time since I’ve been on a proper date. Like, many hundreds of years. And you seem so wonderful, I don’t want to mess it all up.” She smiled, her nerves reflected on her face.

“By the way, you look gorgeous in that.” Hiwa added, pointing at the dress Kelci had chosen to wear. It was the one she’d taken to the everlight ball, and only ever worn that one time. The first dress she’d ever had made, just for her, and she had no idea what it really looked like. From previous reactions, though, she knew it to be pretty. It was a deep-cut neckline on an otherwise traditional Pandaren style gown, in light pastel colors.

Kelci blushed profusely, “Ahh, this? I couldn’t even tell you what it looked like.” She smiled, “But other people have told me the same, even with my scars. So… yeah. I didn’t want to mess things up, so I wore my prettiest thing…”

Hiwa hugged her again. “Okay you are just adorable. Come on, this whole thing was your idea.” She took a step back and folded her arms. Kelci could make out her motions clearly from her Chi. Maybe because she was back in Pandaria, maybe it was something to do with Hiwa herself, but Kelci felt calm. “You did have some place in mind, right?”

Kelci jumped back into herself and nodded. “Ahh, it’s this way. I’ll call Yu’wu. He’ll fly us there.” As she spoke, she extended her arm toward the sky and a trail of mist came forth from it, carrying the name upon it.

Hiwa stood there for a moment. “...what’s a Yu’wu?” She asked, confused. She was answered before Kelci said anything when a very large, Jade-colored cloud serpent roared out of the skies to land before them. “Oh! That! Apparently! You have a dragon.” She whistled, “Sorry, but that’s hot. I don’t have a dragon. Deeefinitely points scored, there.” Teasing? Or more flirting? Probably both.

Kelci laughed, “Cloud serpent, though they are similar to Dragons in many ways. His name is Yu’wu.” She climbed aboard without much issue and held out a hand for Hiwa, who took it and boarded behind her.

“Yu’wu,” The Elf said, trying out the name for herself. “I like it. He’s gorgeous.” She smiled, looping her arms around Kelci’s waist to hold herself in place. “Was this your sinister plan? Get me to snuggle you right from the start?”

Kelci just grinned. “Maybe.” She said, and murmured to Yu’wu in Pandaren. The cloud serpent took off, flying fast toward an instructed location. It only made Hiwa grip tighter. “...even if it wasn’t my plan, it worked out.” Kelci laughed back at her.

Hiwa snorted a laugh, “You’re devious!” She snickered, “This is… so different from when I fly, on my own. It’s so smooth and swift.” She laid her face against Kelci’s back, as the serpent whipped through the mountains and down into the Jade Forest. Hiwa had been there before, but never like this. Flying above the trees, looking down at everything, it took her breath away. “It’s so… beautiful.”

Kelci held strong, even when hugged, “I guess I wouldn’t know, for sure, but I can feel the life in it. This land touched me, even my first time here, and I have been in love with it ever since, though I have never seen any of it.” She spoke happily, but a twinge of regret hinted in her voice. She wanted to see the forest below, but couldn’t. “Still, it’s my favorite place. Here, we’re landing just up ahead.” There was a mountaintop that had a small shrine on it, jutting up out of the mists like a beacon.

As the serpent came near, he swirled around the tower, until his form was curled in a circle. Conveniently, just by where the saddle sat on his back, was a platform. Kelci poked Hiwa’s hands, which were still gripped about her. “We’re here. You can… get off.” She felt the limbs detangle themselves, reluctantly.

“Aw, but you made such a good pillow!” Hiwa cackled to herself as she leapt onto the platform, then turned to offer Kelci a hand. Surprisingly, the Draenei took it in her own as she jumped. “Oh wow, good aim!”

Kelci took just biiiit longer than was maybe natural to let go. “When there are few people around, I can sense Chi much better. Especially if the ones that are around…” She didn’t finish that sentence, instead clearing her throat, “Anyway! I thought we could… sit up here. I got some special tea to brew, and… we could get to know each other better.” She produced the satchel of tea from her belt, and a bag that contained teamaking supplies from her bag.

“...tea? I’ll admit, I haven’t had too much of it. Liked what I have had, though. So yeah, that sounds nice.” She smiled and touched Kelci’s arm as she walked by, to let her know she was moving. Even if it wasn’t unnecessary, it was a kind gesture, and it warmed Kelci’s heart. Hiwa plopped down in a clear space. “So then, tea it is!”

Kelci smiled and moved to join her, removing a rather ornate tea set from the bag, carefully. It was cast in Jade, for the most part, and she had some manner of magical heating element to power it all. Likely a gift, as the girl had very little in the way of money. “I’ll have you know, someone almost died just so I could treat you to special tea. We’ve only just met and I’m getting those in my command injured for you.” She smirked. “I healed them, though. So they’re fine. Don’t worry.” She began to prepare this vaunted ‘special tea’ in an incredibly traditional Pandaren way.

Hiwa was transfixed, “Wow, eggs in one basket much?” She giggled, “Nah, it’s honestly really sweet. I went out of my way to get some food, actually. I have no idea what you like, so I got uh… everything I could think of. Some things I’ve never even heard of! What’s a ‘won-ton’?” She butchered the pronunciation.

Kelci’s earns burnt in her blushing. “...aww, you didn’t have to-- that’s so sweet!” She bit her lip, having to pause for a moment in the teamaking. “And I love wontons! They’re like little fried dumplings, stuffed with… well, almost anything!” She didn’t eat very much, being so small and thin, but that didn’t stop Pandaren from trying. She always had had more food than she knew what to do with, here. “You’re… a little bit eggs in one basket, too, huh?”

It was Hiwa’s turn to blush, though Kelci couldn’t see it. She could hear it, though. “Sh-shut up! You’re cute, alright? I’ve never had the chance to go on a date with a cute Draenei. This is new and I like it so far.”

Kelci finished her preparations and scooted over closer to Hiwa, “Then this is alright?” She asked, leaning her head on the Elf’s shoulder. It was far more brave than she usually was, but something about Hiwa made her easily confront her fears.

“Naturally! I didn’t think I was doing this well!” Hiwa laughed in response and wrapped an arm around Kelci. “I… have a good feeling about this.” She murmured. And so they continued on through the night and into the early morning. They drank many kinds of tea, ate all sorts of snacks, and conversed about everything; from each other’s pasts to their hopes for the future. Then, rain began to fall.

“...it’s raining.” Kelci commented, abruptly. The two were standing on the balcony, but not a single drop had fallen on either of them, yet. Kelci could tell, though. She knew the feel and the sounds and smells of a rainstorm near instantly.

“Is it?” Hiwa asked, just as a raindrop fell on her cheek. She laughed at it, “So it is! You’re good at this.” She bumped herself over next to Kelci, letting an arm reach around the Draenei’s shoulder.

“At what, sensing incoming rainfall? It’s just a matter of--” She was cut off. Hiwa had pressed a finger to her lips. The elf turned herself so she was facing Kelci, and her arms both fell to gently loop around her waist. “...oh.” Kelci whispered.

“Mhm. Good at a lot of things.” Hiwa murmured back, then bumped her forehead against Kelci’s. The rainfall was intensifying, but somehow, neither of them noticed. “I feel like… ahh, this is dumb. But I feel like we were meant to meet, y’know? This. I like this. A lot.”

Kelci’s heart skipped a beat and her voice caught in her throat. “M-me too. You’re just… everything I could have hoped for. And even a bit more.” She, in turn, let her arms fall over Hiwa’s shoulders. “Can I… do something? If I can connect with someone more closely, I can… shut out everything else and almost see them as they are, through their Chi. It’s pretty personal, though, and I don’t want to intrude. It kind of goes both ways, and we both might be able to scrape some of what the other is feeling…”

Hiwa paused, but only for an instant. It wasn’t actually a hard question. “...go ahead. I want you to see me like I see you, right now.” She smiled, and closed her eyes, waiting.

“Alright,” Kelci murmured, and she began. The world melted away around her. All of her focus, all of her mind’s searching and want fell onto the woman holding her. And then… there she was. In full detail; Though not with her eyes, Kelci could see the woman before her, painted by the silhouette of her Chi. “You’re… beautiful.” She gasped, biting her lip. It was so much, and the feelings drifting from Hiwa were only returned in kind by herself.

There weren’t any more words that needed to be said. With the rain pouring down around them, their lips met. The moment seemed to last for longer than either of them could ever recall, after. But that first kiss cemented something, deep within them both. That somehow, in this one moment, everything in the world was just fine. That feeling never left them.

[clairetherose]

Draecember 2017 Day 7 - Feeling Left Out

((((( Oooh boy did that used to happen to Kelci a lot. And maybe I’ll be on time one day. At least school is almost done. )))))

Icecrown was cold, even with the bonfires and the crowd of people who had assembled at the Argent grounds. Kelci hugged her arms to her sides, chilly in just her usual thin leathers and wraps. Amy had said it would be fun, but she’d neglected to mention that it would be so cold. She shook her head to try and clear the chill from it and pressed forward, her hooves crunching in the snow. Even though she couldn’t see them, she could sense the people around her. Talk was happy and excited, and the moods coming off of all the Chi around her spoke of joviality. After all, this was the Tournament of Ages, the largest event of the whole year. How could one not be excited?

Kelci rubbed her temples, trying to fight off the headache she knew was coming. She was rather bad with crowds, since her training in Pandaria. Too much Chi all at once would overload her senses, give her headaches, or make her unable to function until she stopped her Sense completely. This would be a test. Her mind flailed around through the sea of people, trying to latch on to any Chi she recognized, finally sensing Matt sticking out among the crowd. Matthew Varrson was a man Kelci had only met a handful of times, but he’d left more than an impression on her. Even without ever seeing his face, she felt a kind of attraction to him, despite him being a human. Still, a familiar Chi was something to ground herself on. She headed for him, accidentally bumping shoulders with a half dozen people on the way.

“Matt!” She called out, once she got close enough that he might hear her. They were away from the main crowd, somewhat, so things had calmed in her head. It no longer felt like her horns were trying to push their way down through her skull. Her skirt, cut into long strips, was poor protection in the wind, and she shivered even more against it.

“Kelci!” He called back, hopping to his feet with a crunch of snow beneath. “You look. Cold.” He chuckled and crossed the distance to her, putting an arm over her shoulder. “Here. Don’t you have a coat or anything?” Even though they were of different races, they were nearly the same height. Kelci was rather short for a Draenei.

Kelci shook her head, thankful for the shelter from the cold. “No, I have no need, usually. Pandaria is very warm. This place… is not.” She hadn’t had the chance to explore much of the world, yet. She wasn’t aware of how varied Azeroth really was. “I’m sure it’s pretty, though. I wish I could see the snow. Not just feel it.” She shivered again.

“Well that won’t do!” Matt announced, gripping her wrist gently to tug her in a direction, “Come on, I’ll buy you a coat to keep you warm!” He grinned back at her, even though he knew she couldn’t see it. With Matt, it was hard to tell if he was flirting or just genuinely being a nice person. They both seemed the same with him. “And it is pretty, but the thing is… I always thought the smell was the prettiest part. And that’s something you can probably feel more than I do!” He was also good at cheering Kelci up.

“You don’t have to– Ow!” She bumped into someone as she was led along, “Ahh, careful. I can’t dodge people like I usually do. It’s so… crowded.” So far, this was proving to be a bad idea. Maybe it would get better with a coat to be warm. “I do… like how it smells. That’s true. The snow, I mean.” She stumbled again, “Matt! Slow down, please..” He finally listened and released her wrist.

“Ah, sorry. I was excited.” He said rather sheepishly, “You seem like you never have much fun. I wanted to show you a good time so badly I got ahead of myself.” He laughed and turned away from her. “This is the stall I wanted to visit, anyway.” Kelci couldn’t see what it was. Matt turned again and addressed whoever was in charge of the stall. “Hi, my friend here is really cold. We would like that,” He probably pointed at something, Kelci couldn’t tell.

“Of course, right away.” A Draenei’s voice came from the man at the stall, much to Kelci’s surprise. “That will be five golds, please.” He remained calm in tone, but Kelci practically balked.

“Matt, no! You can’t spend that much on me!” She tugged at the back of his shirt, “That’s too much!” Five golds wasn’t much money for Matthew, and she knew that, but it was more than she’d ever spent on clothing, before. She tugged again, knowing it wasn’t going to do any good.

Matt just chuckled and ruffled her hair. “Don’t you worry. Promise this isn’t a big deal for me. Besides, you’ll feel more at home.” He exchanged the money and tucked a heavy talbuk-fur coat over Kelci’s shoulders. “There, see? It’s talbuk!” He was probably grinning; Kelci could hear it in his voice.

“Oh. This is really warm, th-thank you.” She murmured back, hugging the coat about her shoulders and smiling. “Thanks, Matt.” She fit her arms through the sleeves on the coat and grinned. It was sized for a Draenei, but not one as short as Kelci. Her hands didn’t make it to the ends of the sleeves and it hung low, over her waist. It only made it all warmer.

Just then, someone else approached. It was Amelia. “Matt! Kelci!” She hurried over to them, feet crunching in the snow. She giggled when she saw Kelci’s coat, “Kelci, that’s adorable! How long have you had that?”

“Matt just got it for me!” She chimed up, grinning. Despite being over six feet tall, she almost looked like a little kid with her oversized coat. She wasn’t helping with her almost childlike glee. “I told him not to, but he did it anyway.”

“Matthew,” Amelia spoke more sternly, “You can’t go trying to win over every cute girl you meet. Kelci, do not fall for his tricks.” She sighed, and a soft yelp came from Matt. Amelia probably grabbed him and tugged him along. “Honestly, you’re hopeless.”

“Hey! Lemme go!” Matt’s cries grew more faint as the two of them were heading away. Kelci had to hurry to try and catch up, nearly losing them several times. When she finally caught up, they had stopped in a circle of some of their other friends. Kelci couldn’t make out or recognize any of the Chi of the others.

“Oh, there she is. I thought you got left behind!” Matt chuckled when Kelci approached. “Everyone, this is Kelci. She’s really sweet, but she’s blind. So be nice.” He put a hand gently on her shoulder to guide her towards the group. “I… guess it wouldn’t do me much good, introducing them. You couldn’t see who I’m pointing at.”

Kelci blushed at being called sweet. “Ah, hello, new people. Don’t mind me too much. I don’t know anyone here.” She was meek around new people, especially in groups like this, and preferred to let them continue their conversation.

A few of the gathered group murmured hello, then went back to what they were talking about before. A human woman chimed in, “Did you see the booth over there? It has the prettiest paintings! And the one next to it, just the cutest scarves. I want to get like. Five of them!” She sounded excited. Judging by how low to the ground her voice came from, she was likely quite short.

“Quaren,” Amelia touted back at her, “You can’t go spending all your money at once. The Tournament is going on all this week, remember?” Some giggling from both sides was all else that Kelci could perceive.

“But Amy, look!” She pointed at the stall in question. Someone else whistled. “Wow,” A man’s voice, but not Matt’s, “Those are damn good. I saw a food stall that had the best looking sweet rolls. We should get some, later.”

Matt nudged Kelci’s shoulder, “It’s a picture of a Draenei, Kelci, look!” He realized what he’d said just after saying it and his voice sank, “…ah damn it, I’m sorry. I slipped.”

Kelci waved him off, “It’s alright, Matt. It’s fine. This place is almost too much for me, as it is, I’m just trying to keep my head straight.”

Amelia popped back into the conversation. “Hey. There’s an event starting soon in the main stage. We should all go watch!” Kelci felt a pang in her stomach. Watching an event, surrounded by people, was something she could not do. She shrank back from them all, even as the others were adding their agreement to Amelia’s.

“I will remain here,” Kelci said timidly, backing away from the group. “You all go and have your fun, okay? The crowd will just overload me.” She edged another step back, hoof crunching neatly in the snow. “Thank you again for the coat, Matt.” At least she managed to say it with a smile.

“Huh? You’re not coming?” Matt sounded disappointing, “Oh, right, the crowds thing. Gotcha. And hey, you’re welcome! Wear it as much as you need, okay? Just don’t be cold.” He began to head off with the others. “See ya later, Kelci!” And he was gone, lost again in the sea of people.

Kelci went to go find somewhere to sit. It had to be away from most of the people. Away from the fun that her friends were having that she couldn’t join in with. She wandered the grounds for a little while, but found nowhere peaceful. Disheartened, saddened, and alone, she returned the way she had originally came and left the grounds.

[clairetherose]

Draecember 2017 Day 6 - On a Mission

((((( Wooh, almost caught up. )))))

Kelci had been sent ahead with a small force to scout. She knew the two who had been sent with her, but not very well. A human and a Kaldorei by the names of Willard and Thelbien. Both professed to be scouts, and were from the mercenary group that had requested aid from the Dusk. Kelci would have preferred to do this alone, but they insisted that she couldn’t handle it on her own. This annoyed Kelci, but not enough to make her quit. After all, she had a job to do.

“Fan out,” She commanded, quietly, “We’re coming up on something.” She crouched low and drew the handblades from her sides. Her sense never lied to her; just around the outcropping ahead, two men sat in ambush, just waiting for someone to round the corner.

“Ha, I don’t see anything!” Willard, who was the more boisterous of the two accompanying Kelci, sneered at her, “You’re just trying to make us paranoid!” He wasn’t making any effort to quiet his voice, and the enemies likely knew exactly where they were. Kelci sensed a third approach.

“They’ve called for backup. Be quiet!” She hissed, staying low to the ground and using whatever she could for cover. Thelbien, for his part, was listening. He was silent and had faded into the shadows; Kelci only knew where he was from the sense of his Chi. It was only the loud human who seemed determined not to listen. “Get to cover.” She shot at him in her most commanding voice.

Willard faltered in his arrogance, but only for a moment. “Ha! Thel, why’re you listening to this silly girl? She’s not the boss of u--” His speaking was cut off by Kelci shoving him out of the way.

Her spring to action was swift and deliberate. Despite being short for her people, she was more than strong enough to push him out of the way with her shoulder. In the same motion, she released one of the handblades upward and snatched an arrow out of midair. She spun around and threw it back the direction it came from, then caught her handblade again as it fell, hooves sliding on the dirt. The arrow met its mark, and there was a cry of pain from the distance. “I almost missed that…”

“By the Light-- How’d you do that?” Willard sputtered, checking himself for arrows. He was gaping at the Draenei. “You saved my life, even though I’ve been awful to you this whole time.” He scrambled back to his feet and drew his weapon, a small gun with a simple sight on it.

“That’s because my duty is to make sure you both come back alive.” Kelci replied, beginning to stalk forward. “Are you willing to listen to me, now?” Her eyes were no use, here. She closed them. A mist began to billow up around her, filling the air with soothing Jade. It pulsed in and out with her breathing, and especially near her hands and face was glowing, faintly. The grass and leaves around her moved as if rustled by wind, though the air was still. When she spoke again, her voice seemed to echo, coming from deep within her. “We have to move fast. Willard, Thelbien, circle around to the back. I’ll head straight in.”

This time, neither man questioned her orders. They moved together as a practiced pair, circling around to provide the requested flank. At least when he had his focus, Willard was good at what he did, and Thelbien moved with drive and purpose alongside him. Kelci smiled. As much as she wanted to smack him, she was pleased to see the human stepping up. “Patience is the greatest virtue, Kelci.” She told herself, quietly, just after they were out of earshot, and pulled her blindfold over her eyes. Despite restoring her sight, she preferred to fight without it. It was the way she learned her arts originally, and her sight almost felt like a burden, sometimes. Satisfied, she began to move.

Her hooves covered ground swiftly, taking her around to the front side of the enemy ambush. What better way to stop an ambush than to simply trigger it? These were bandits, but clever. Just as she rounded the corner, arrows flew at her from two directions at once. Without so much as showing surprise, she rolled forward, dodging under them. She could still sense all three forms, one sprawled on the ground and clutching at his shoulder. The other two readied their bows to try and shoot again. Kelci didn’t give the first a chance. She rushed forward, closing the gap before the archer could even ready her next arrow. In two tight snaps, her handblade lashed out and broke the bow in half, then her hoof came around and collided with the woman’s head, knocking her to ground, unconscious.

The remaining archer had his bow nocked, the arrow pointed right for Kelci’s head. “Got you now, goat!” He called out triumphantly and loosed the bowstring. The arrow flew true, spinning in midair toward the back of Kelci’s head. Just as it was about to sink home, she reached back with one arm and caught it, right out of the air. The shaft snapped in half under her grip. “H-how?!” He sputtered and instead drew a pair of swords, ready to fight her at close range, instead.

Rather than engage, Kelci stood up straight. “I’ll give you this opportunity to surrender,” She declared, plainly, “It would be in your best interest.” Her face was unmoving, expressionless. “I would really prefer not to kill you.” She stood still, blindfold tightly tucked over her eyes. She was reading his Chi, judging his reaction.

“Go kiss a murloc!” The bandit yelled and charged at her, both swords out to his sides. “This’ll be the last time you leave an opening!”

Kelci sighed heavily. The jade mist still surrounding her came up sharply, billowing into a cloud around her. “I’m sorry for this,” She murmured, and dropped her handblades, instead just bringing her bare hands up as her stance shifted, one hoof back further from the other and arms pointed toward the oncoming man. All around her a faint crackling sound started to hint at what might come, then without further warning, streams of Jade colored lightning came from her hands, impacting the man and stunning him in place, holding him. Kelci began to walk forward, holding her lightning on his form, keeping him in place. She only dropped it from him when she was standing just before him. In a strike too quick to see, she trust out one palm, firmly connecting with his chest. A sweeping kick from down low sent him reeling backward, and she followed with a rising upward kick, catapulting herself into a backflip as her hoof left a visible impression in his sternum. As she landed, she brought both hands together, then thrust them out toward him. A burst of pure Chi energy shot forth, hitting the man and pushing his form back into the stone of the outcropping, where he crumpled and fell to the ground. She turned in place and walked back to her blades, picking them up one at a time.

It was just at that moment that the two other scouts rounded the corner, in time to see her final blows on the bandit. They stood there in silence, gaping at her. “Tie up the woman, she’s only unconscious,” Kelci commanded, striding toward the injured one. “And this one is going to answer some questions.” She leaned down, smiling warmly at him, “I promise if you’re cooperative, I can get you leniency. I do not want to see more people hurt. So please, answer my questions?” From brutality to kindness in the blink of an eye. That’s Kelci.

[clairetherose]

Draecember2017 Day 14 - Relaxing After a Long Day

These are all so sappy, anymore. I might be killing you all with glucose intake. I promise more feels will be to come. In the meantime, Kelci and I share a love and a passion: Tea.

The day’s fighting had been bitter and hard. Both Kelci and Hiwa were bruised, even a little singed in a few places, but they were alive. Kelci had taken the brunt of it, as was her way, though Hiwa hardly escaped unharmed. The both of them being healers, the damage wasn’t severe, but they were near exhausted. Hiwa had taken pity of Kelci’s more wounded state and shifted into a doe to carry her the last little bit back to their home. The Draenei was draped forward over her wife’s animal form, moaning in pain. “...I need tea after that.”

Hiwa still had a bit of wit, even as tired as she was. “You need tea all the time, love.” She replied. At first, it had been odd to see an animal speaking like a person, but Kelci had grown accustomed to it after all this time. “That said, I do too.” She laughed, but it turned into a cough. “Ow it hurts to laugh…”

Normally, either of them could have healed the both of them just fine, but they were too drained from the experience. “Are we there yet?” Kelci asked. Her face was buried in Hiwa’s fur. “I feel like my horns are going to fall off. And that I split my hooves in half.” Neither was true, of course, but it was a decent analogy of how she felt. She groaned and shifted a little to look at where they were.

“Actually, yeah.” Hiwa had just arrived at the door to their house. “Wait, you sensed it, didn’t you? Stop cheating!” She made the mistake of laughing again, only to stop and wince some more. “Owwwwowow…” Thankfully, their house was set up in a way that Kelci could make tea from almost anywhere inside. It had been a very purposeful decision.

“Maybe.” Kelci wouldn’t confirm nor deny. Mustering up enough energy to pry herself from her wife’s back, she wobbled on her hooves, but stayed upright. “We’re taking tomorrow to recuperate. If we go back, we’ll be useless.” She all but commanded, though as Hiwa shifted back to her Elven form, there was a nod of agreement.

“Agree. I feel like I just got into a wrestling match with a whole Tauren deathball team.” She followed her wife inside, too tired to even do her usual playful tail grab. “I don’t think I’ve seen you almost lose a fight like that in… a year?” She made a beeline for the couch and promptly flopped onto it. “Ohhhh Elune’s ass that feels good.”

Kelci only stopped to grab a specific pouch of tea leaves from the kitchen before collapsing next to her. “Tea will cure all things. I know it’s not a special occasion, but,” She withdrew Golden Lotus Oolong from the pouch, a special reserve she could only get a single pouch of. “I’m making this.”

Hiwa had her face stuffed in a pillow and said something much too muffled to understand. She flailed a hand limply toward Kelci, who grasped it with her own and squeezed gently. “I love you, too.” The Draenei replied, and set about her work. A magic heating element was built into most of their tables, somewhere, and it took Kelci only a moment or two to activate it. She retrieved an ornate Jade-inlaid kettle and a skin of water from under the table, setting it all to heat on top.

Hiwa turned and gasped for air. She must not have been able to breathe, under there. “Keeeeeeeelci,” She whined, “Is the tea ready yet?” She flopped her arm toward Kelci again.

“The water just started getting hot.” Kelci laughed in response, but also immediately winced. “It’s the Golden Lotus, love. It’s worth the wait.” That news made Hiwa actually perk up a little, and Kelci laughed. “That got your attention.”

“Shut up.” The Kaldorei retorted, adjusting herself on the couch so she could plant her head face-down in Kelci’s lap. “I can’t move.” She said in a muffled voice.

“I can work around you.” Kelci shook her head as she replied, but smiled. “Just don’t ask me to get back up on my hooves. That’s a no.” It was very likely both of them would sleep on this couch. It was a common occurrence, and thankfully the couch was made with the myriad of little animals that followed Hiwa around in mind. It was late, though, and they were all asleep elsewhere, tonight.

After a few minutes of silent relaxation, the tea water began to steam, indicating it had reached the temperature Kelci needed. She bent over Hiwa, who had turned her face into Kelci’s tummy instead, by now, and retrieved the kettle, pouring over a bowl of prepared leaves. Just a few minutes more.

“Okay but is it done yet?” Hiwa asked again, knowing full well that it wasn’t. “Also, am I okay here? I’m sure you’re sore.” Even tired and beat up herself, she cared for Kelci’s comfort. She wasn’t heavy, but just enough that it might cause some strain on her wife’s injuries.

Kelci didn’t even bother to answer the first question, just huffing. To the second, however, she looked down. “I swore to carry you through everything, didn’t I? I’d rather we be together like this than apart just for the sake of a few aches. If you think we’re parting for even a second tonight, you’re crazy.”

Hiwa only snuggled in further. “Good.” She said in a muffled voice from Kelci’s tummy. She knew better than to actually interfere, though. Teamaking was an art Kelci took very seriously; something extremely important to her. The result was nothing but good, in her eyes. Seeing her wife be happy and getting to drink delicious tea? Both were excellent. “Love you…” She murmured, again. It definitely bore repeating.

Kelci began to run her fingers through Hiwa’s hair. Though tangled, she was gentle enough to sift the tangles out beforehand with her fingers. It was a soothing motion for her hands while the smell of brewing tea filled the room. Waking up from a nap, one of their Nightsaber cubs hopped up onto the couch and curled into a ball on top of Hiwa’s legs, where she promptly fell back asleep. Cats never change, big or small.

Hiwa groaned, “Aw, right on my legs. You little butt.” She carefully adjusted herself so she was sitting up, scooting the cub into her lap. Only minor complaints were made before the little cat fell asleep, yet again. “Okay but seriously,” She asked Kelci again, this time looking right at her, “Is the stupid tea ready? I need it.”

Kelci smirked, “Eh, a little early, but it should still be good. The rest will steep some more.” She reached for the same two cups left there from the last time they made tea on the couch, pouring tea almost to the brim in each, and handed one to Hiwa. “I know that sucked, tonight, but I feel like this war is almost over. We’ve nearly won.” She blew on the mug to try to cool it, then sipped. Almost immediately, she began to feel better.

Hiwa took the mug happily and just drank without blowing on it, promptly burning the ever-loving hell out of her mouth. “Ooh hot!” She set it down to cool and pouted, “I am so tired of waiting.”

“You do that every time and still get burned!” Kelci laughed, being much more careful with her own tea. “Just give it a moment.”

Hiwa continued to pout like a child, petting and scratching the cub in her lap. She said nothing, waiting for the tea to cool.

Finally, at long last, their tea was ready to drink easily. Both of them took heavy gulps in unison, followed by smiles and “ahhh”s. “Tea is one of the greatest things on this or any world.” Kelci murmured, taking another gulp shortly after.

Hiwa nodded, “True. You’re better, though.” She was draining her own cup pretty rapidly, the warm water was helping her everything.

Kelci let out a mock gasp, “Better than tea?! That’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said to me! Well, after ‘I do.’ That one still wins.” She bumped the ring on her finger against Hiwa’s matching one.

They did manage to finish the whole pot, as leaving undrank tea would be the greatest tragedy imaginable. Kelci tried a bit more healing when she’d finished, and accomplished curing some of their worst aches. Hiwa didn’t want to accidentally grow a tree in the middle of the house, so she abstained. The two remained on the overstuffed couch all night, falling asleep in a pile of limbs with the Nightsaber cub stretched out over both of them. Even after a hard day, life was good in the Shadeleaf house.

[clairetherose]

Draecember 2017 Day 4 - A Memory

((((( I know, late again. I will get these out on time when the semester ends. Anyway! I went all depressing last time, so have heartwarming, this time! )))))

Evening was falling, and Kelci was perched lazily on the balcony outside the house belonging to herself and her wife, in Pandaria. From inside, the smell of something cooking wafted out to her and she smiled. “That smells good!” She called in, turning to look toward the kitchen, her once-blind eyes trying to sneak a look at Hiwa cooking. “You sure you don’t need my help?”

“You stay out, you food thief!” Hiwa called back, “I know your evil plot; you’re going to try and eat everything while I’m cooking! You won’t fool me again!” The Kaldorei poked her head around the corner of the door frame and gave Kelci a playful grin, then stuck her tongue out and disappeared. “Besides. I want it to be a surprise!”

Kelci sighed heavily. Her plan was foiled. “Caught me!” She giggled back, leaning against the wall and tapping her hoof against the wood beneath. After a few moments passed, she closed her eyes, simply feeling Hiwa’s Chi. “Hey, I love you. You’re my world.” She wasn’t sure why she said that, but it popped into her head.

The cooking sounds stopped, abruptly. Even though she knew what was happening, Kelci played along, waiting just long enough to open one eye. Barely an inch from her face was her wife’s, grinning at her. “You’re too amazing for words, so I brought this instead.” She said, then kissed Kelci deeply without any hesitation.

Kelci, of course, wasn’t about to complain. When their lips parted, Hiwa had one of the Draenei’s horns gripped in her hand, gently. More of a reflex than anything else. “Now stop being distracting so I can finish dinner.” She commanded with a smirk, and leaned in for one last peck on the cheek before heading back into the kitchen, shaking her head and laughing.

With her wife firmly occupied, Kelci’s mind instead began to wander, back to the very first time they met. It was years ago, before her eyesight had been returned to her, at a bar in Stormwind.

The Monk began to doze off…

Kelci sat at a table in the Pig and Whistle tavern, in Old Town. Across the table, her best friend Amelia was leaning back in the opposite chair, taking a rest. Though both sat as members of the Volfram council, Amelia was far more experienced than Kelci was, at leadership. While the human woman appeared relaxed, Kelci had a tingle of nerves keeping her on edge. The notices had been posted around Stormwind, telling people that Volfram was recruiting, but so far, only one person had answered the call. Amelia took care of his interview in short order, and he had been inducted already. He was downstairs, likely getting drunk at the bar.

Kelci sighed, settling her hands in her lap, gently. It was hard for her to properly take stock of the tavern around them, what with her blindness. Even with her ability to sense Chi, there were enough people that everything became muddled. She would have had trouble dealing with so many, usually, but there was a very large mug of tea before her. Tea always calmed her. Amelia was also abstaining from drinking, as she often did. She didn’t like to drink very much, whereas for Kelci it was more out of necessity. Any alcohol clouded her mind and threw off her Chi; a single drink for her was like being near blackout drunk, for anyone else. Just tea, for now.

“Amy?” She asked, feeling out for her friend with her sense. There she was, as warm and welcoming as always. It made Kelci smile.

“Hm?” Amelia had been dozing off, almost. “Oh, sorry Kelci, what is it?” She shifted in place. Kelci heard the scraping of the chair’s legs on the wood floor, the creak of it adjusting to Amy’s new position. Her friend’s voice came from higher up, as well. She wasn’t slouched, anymore.

“Can I do the next one?” The Draenei asked, hopefully, “I need to learn to be a proper council member eventually, don’t I?” She was hopeful to live up to the responsibility. Even though she’d sat on Volfram’s council since its inception, she had never felt like she contributed as much as the others. Whether that was her inexperience, or her inability to see, she wasn’t sure. It was almost a certainty that they felt pity for her, and she could feel it on their voices and in their Chi.

Sure enough, as Amelia spoke, there was that same familiar tone of remorse as she observed the Draenei. “Oh, of course! I’m sorry to have been hogging them so much,” She let out a low laugh at herself, “I didn’t even realize I might be taking something from you. Go right ahead, okay?” And there it was again; just that slight hint that Amy felt sorry for Kelci, even if she wasn’t doing so on purpose. The tiniest of wisps in her Chi. Kelci knew her much too kind to be willfully condescending, but with all the factors that seemed to be in the Monk’s way, it was more than likely a subconscious reflection of what she saw.

Kelci smiled, though, not wanting to make anything of it. Amelia had good intentions, and was still a good friend to her. “You’re fine, don’t worry about it,” She smiled back, “I’m just putting my name down for the next one.” She mimicked writing in mid-air, then snickered at herself, “Yeah, because I could actually put my name down for anything. I guess we’ll just have to see who walks in.” She smirked, “Or at least, you will.” It had been a long three hundred years since she lost her eyesight, but even ten of those years ago, she would never have been joking about it like this. Her training as a Monk had renewed her lease on life, and she found it easier to enjoy a spare joke every now and then, at her own expense.

Amelia joined in Kelci’s mirth, happy to see that her friend wasn’t actually upset with her. She’d seen Kelci angry only once before, and didn’t want a repeat of it. The girl could be scary, even without her sight. “Alright, then. Next one’s yours, but I’m on spotting duty. Am I your seeing eye dog?” She joked, snickering quietly. She rarely made references to the curse that occupied her, but seeing Kelci in such a good mood was inspiring her. Knowing that her friend was limited, she turned her eyes toward the door, scanning the faces of those who came into the Pig and Whistle.

After a little while, intermingled with chitchat about this or that, Kelci sensed something. A feeling unlike the others in the bar; Chi closer to Amelia’s. It felt a tinge wild, as if a beast was waiting behind, but still kind and welcoming. And unmistakably Kaldorei. “Someone approaches,” Kelci commented, sure there was no other reason for someone like that to brve this particular bar. And sure enough, before Amelia could protest, the Night Elf woman climbed the stairs to reach them.

“You guys Volfram?” She asked, with one of the notices clutched in her hand. “I hear you’re looking for people.” Unsure of who to address, she looked between the two women, finally settling on Amelia, who shook her head and pointed to Kelci. The Elf followed her direction and grinned at the Draenei, instead, “What can you tell me about you guys?”

Kelci was almost surprised to be addressed, and she blinked. It was a holdover from when her eyes used to work. “Ah, well. Like you identified, we’re called Volfram. I think the closest thing to what we are is more like a family, than anything else.” Though she was trying her best to face the woman, Kelci’s aim was off. With how crowded the bar was, her sense was less precise than it might usually be, so she was facing off to her side, a little. “I’m Kelci, and this is Amy. What’s your name?”

“Hiwasawa Shadeleaf,” The woman replied. An odd name, for an Elf, but Kelci could hardly recognize that. “But just Hiwa is fine. Also; are you… blind? You’re staring at a post on the railing. And yeah, it’s an attractive post, but c’mon. Hot Night Elf here.” She snickered, hoping that wasn’t too mean.

Kelci, of course, laughed back. “I mean. Yeah.” She gestured at the scattering of scars all around her eyes. “Or did gray and lifeless not quite give it away? Really too bad, I wouldn’t have minded seeing what a ‘Hot Night Elf’ is.” She adjusted her facing, “Hang on, is this better?” She asked, still off-kilter a bit. Something about this woman made her playful.

Hiwa grinned, delighted that this woman was such a good sport, “Nahhh, but almost. Now you’re… making sexy eyes at a chair. Is that what Draenei are into? Huh. Never been jealous of a chair, before.” She tapped her fingers on the table to make it easier to locate her. “Gray for sure, but hardly lifeless. I can see determination in them. And just a hell of a lot of strength.”

Kelci was thankful for the tapping, but the overt flirting was a bit much and her cheeks went a darker shade of blue. What was it about this woman? She finally met her target right on, the combination of sensing her Chi longer and audio queues helping her zero in. “Ha! Got you. Now. I should probably at least pretend I know what I’m doing, here.”

Amelia, for her part, was mostly silent, but smirking like a mad person. It was rare to see Kelci engage with someone like this, especially to see her so receptive to flirting. This had been a fantastic idea. She elected to simply let the two be.

“Oh, darn, now I have to see your face.” Hiwa cackled back, “Lucky me.” She tapped the table again, then leaned forward on her elbows, “I believe you were supposed to interview me, not just flirt.”

Kelci jumped in her chair. Hiwa was right. “Oh, uh. Yeah. So!” She proceeded to give the Kaldorei a brief rundown of what their group stood for, what it wanted to accomplish. Hiwa, for her part, kept the flirting to a minimum during the explanation. There was a time and place, and this was mildly official. When Kelci had finished, she nodded.

“Well that sounds like exactly what I’m after. What do you need from me?” Hiwa sounded excited to have stumbled on something so fitting for her.

Kelci beamed, “Oh, perfect! Just some questions about your abilities, really. What you can do for us? Though… unless my sensing of your Chi is off, I have a general idea. Still, I think it would be better to hear it from you.”

Hiwa cleared her throat. Time to shine and impress the cute goat. “Well, I guess what I do the best is mend the wounded. But I’m pretty scary when I turn into a cat and turn things into kebabs with my claws. So, yeah, if you guessed Druid - spot on!”

Kelci giggled at the idea of a cat making kebabs. “I want to be around for that, one day. It sounds… hilarious, really.” She gestured in Amy’s general direction, but just missed completely. “Both Amy and I are healers, as well, at least primarily. But there’s no shortage of wounded, these days. That would  be a more than welcome skillset. Next question! Tell us about yourself, at least briefly. You don’t have to share anything that makes you uncomfortable.”

That question made Hiwa pause, just a little bit. She had to debate how much to tell. “Well, up until recently, I was with a sorta military group. But it disbanded. Probably for the better, really, too many had died. Your ad mentioned family. I wanted something like that, again.” This was a far more introspective Hiwa than a few minutes ago. The woman had some depth, too. Kelci felt her stomach churn.

“You’ll fit right in. Third question.” Kelci nodded, more than pleased with the answer. Her first real interview and it was going so well. “Just… tell us your goals. What is it you want from us? We aren’t obsessed with gaining power or conquest.”

Hiwa snorted, “Good, I’d be worried if a nice girl like you wanted to conquer anything.” She gave Kelci a sultry smirk, realizing a moment too late how fruitless that effort was. “…I guess I want the same. Somewhere to belong and feel needed. A family, really.”

Kelci returned a warm smile, even if she couldn’t see the smirk. “Perfect, as far as I’m concerned, you’re in, so long as Amy’s alright with it.” She waited for an affirmative murmur from Amelia, then continued. “I just… have one more question for you. Would you like to go out some time?” She’d made her mind up about that roughly five minutes ago, but wanted to be proper first. Hiwa seemed a great fit for her, and didn’t even appear to care about her blindness. Just perfect.

It took Hiwa only a split second to reply, “Damn right I will. I’m free day after tomorrow, all day. Did you have an idea?”

Kelci was overjoyed. “Not yet but I will! Here, Amy can give you an official communicator and tabard, and I can use that to contact you. I… can’t wait. It’ll be fun.”

Hiwa seemed equally delighted. Kelci could sense her Chi going all aflutter, even if outwardly she was cool and calm. “Perfect! It’s a date!” She chimed, ecstatic with how things had turned out.

Both of them were giddy with anticipation, and for good reason. Though neither knew it at the time, they would someday be married. This was only the beginning.

Back in the present day once more, Kelci was shook awake by Hiwa. Her eyes blinked open and she saw her wife staring at her, arms folded. That same amused smirk painted her face. “Were you daydreaming?” She asked.

Kelci yawned, “Apparently I dozed off. Had a wonderful dream, though. It was about the day we first met.” She rose and embraced Hiwa, bumping their foreheads together.

“Oh how delightfully cheesy.” The Elf exclaimed, hugging her tightly. “Now come on. Dinner’s ready. I made your favorite.

Together, they moved away from the balcony and the fading light of early evening. Two souls intertwined, and perfect for one another.

[clairetherose]

Draecember 1 - A Letter

((((Yes I know this is late))))

My Dearest Anu,

I’m writing you this letter because I wanted you to stop worrying. I made you a promise, those three hundred years ago, that I would live for the both of us. That I would strive to find the positive light in all things, and to never let the darkness this universe is so full of drag me down. Since you’ve passed away, my best friend, I’ve been through so much. I have found a new life for myself, on Azeroth; found a way to cure my blindness. I’ve even found a woman who loves me more than I can ever describe!

There’s so much more to tell than I can fit in a simple letter. I only wish you could see the life I’ve made. I have never forgotten the sacrifice you made; how you gave your life for mine. My wife and I are planning on finding a way to have a child. I plan on naming her Aranu, after you, if she’s a girl. Just know that your memory will be honored. She will have two mothers who love her very much.

I wish I could tell you more, my friend! About the things I’ve seen, about the new skills I’ve learned - of Chi and of Pandaria. It’s finally here, on Azeroth, that I’ve found the peace we both wanted to badly. Only here is there somewhere I can call a true home. A wonderful woman to love and dear friends to keep close. You would like it here. I miss you every day.

With love,

Kelci Shadeleaf

P.S. The surname I took from my wife! She’s of this world, a Kaldorei! I think it suits me.