After staggering home, Ardros sprawled across the sofa, watching sheets of rainfall on the windowpane. People rushed toward the village huddled under robes, going about their activities. Life never halted for a little bad weather, but for Ardros, it was a must. His eyesight had never taken well to this weather.

He winced, keeping a cold herbal compress on his jaw. Tyothiel had very well earned his respect for defending his family. But for now, Ardros pondered what to do next. Time was wasting. Thielor could burst through the door at any moment and enact his revenge. Ardros wouldn't stay here, but returning to any human lands was no option. The rest of his life would be spent on the run, and if his wife ever found out about what he had planned, she would never forgive him. They had plans to spend their lives together, but where was not exactly etched in stone.

Ardros placed the compress aside. He stood and stretched. By the time he moved over to the table for a drink, the door opened. For a second, his arms tightened. But the sight of Reila lightened him as she stood cloaked in white, hoisting a bag of goods in her arms.

They met just before the Third War, and it didn't take long for them to fall for each other. He blinked as the years went by and they were wed. He had never been more pleased to make her happy.

As she lowered her damp hood, her slitted amber eyes met his. He forced a stiff smile.

"Reila!"

"Oh, finally!" she sighed.

"I thought you would be here sooner."

"I went out for some supplies," Reila shut the door. In a rush, she hung her soaked cloak on the nearest peg and dropped the sack on the bench. As Ardros approached, she flung her arms around him tightly, shivering from the chilled air. Their first visit was cut rather short when she had to return to Darnassus. He didn't even get a chance to hold her. But even if she kept busy, he enjoyed being home even for a short time.

"It rained the entire trip," she groaned. "I thought the hippogriff was going to slam into the light tower."

"I'm so glad you're here," He crooned, keeping her close. "I thought we would never be alone."

Reila kissed his cheek, then stepped away. A warm feeling surfaced while she brushed off her white initiate's gown. Since his departure, Reila had been studying at the Temple of the Moon. It was her dream to become a priestess. He vowed to see that fulfilled.

"Have you been here all this time?"

"Not until recently."

"You must be tired from the rain."

Ardros shrugged, pouring two glasses of wine. "I always welcome a little downtime," he said casually.

When she glanced away, he tilted his head to one side, flexing his jaw again. Some of the swelling went down, but it still hurt like hell. He followed her to the sofa and handed her a glass. As they sat down, she took a brief sip then clasped his wrist.

"I heard about Thielor's mother. How is he?"

Ardros guzzled his drink, exhaling. "Honestly, I'm not sure."

"What do you mean?" Her eyes somewhat narrowed. "Have you visited them?"

"Briefly," he told her. "Tyothiel has spent a lot of time alone."

"That will not help."

Ardros bowed his head. "Among many things."

He gulped the rest of his drink. Reila's sapphire brows lowered.

"Ardros, is anything wrong?"

His stomach flipped. There was no hiding from her sharp instincts. She could walk by anyone and sense a problem.

He set the glass aside and stood. He moved over to the dining table and leaned against a chair. As he stared at the wine bottle and floral centerpiece, the wreckage, the human girl, and the fight with Thielor's father tumbled in his thoughts. He drew in a small breath, forming the words to say. Reila stood, awaiting his answer, but instead, the hunter turned and slowly removed his tunic and belt. He closed the distance between them and watched her cheeks darken.

"Not at all," Ardros softly replied. "I just want to catch up on lost time."

He cupped her exquisite, unmarked face and caught her mouth in a long, deep kiss. Reila went limp as she held him, letting her touch wander. Ardros pulled away as her mouth curled into a delicious smirk.

She agreed.

In seconds, Ardros was shoved to the bed, his trousers yanked off and tossed aside. Her boldness and aggressiveness... How he missed that dearly. She disrobed confidently and sprang on top of him. His waist tightened. Next he knew, her soft skin covered him. He ran his hands over her taut waist and thighs. Her kiss, her touch, the way she moved, it was as though no time had passed.

The rush concluded as quickly as it began. Her floral scent lingered as they separated. Ardros settled his breath while she remained in his crooked arm. Neither bothered covering up. It felt wonderful being home.

"Now you can tell me what's bothering you," Reila cut right to the chase and nibbled his earlobe, teasing him. Her jeweled fingers drifted across his chest. He groaned contentedly.

"Fine, have it your way," he chuckled, then briefly glanced at her. "Thielor and I – we had a slight disagreement."

She kissed his jaw and spoke softly. "Everyone has disagreements."

"Yes, but they shouldn't end with a fist fight."

Reila drew back, her brow creased. "What happened?"

He exhaled sharply and tried to conjure an answer. It hit him. Thielor was the victim here.

"Thielor made friends with a woman – a human," he scoffed, resting his arm over his forehead. "If you can truly call her that. That little bitch is just a child."

"Please don't say that," Reila protested. "Times are difficult. Many of our people are making friends with them." She propped her chin on his chest, pushing her hair away. "Unless there is something else you're not telling me."

Suddenly Ardros felt sick to his stomach. He couldn't get the image of their embrace out of his mind.

"Reila, he has feelings for her."

Her eyes narrowed. "Really."

He nodded. "I saw her kiss him several nights ago. Thielor did not withdraw."

Glancing away, her face swirled with disbelief. Ardros knew she and Thielor never saw eye to eye. She had suggested Thielor stay behind, that it was best, but he insistently volunteered to help his people when the Alliance formed, even if it meant leaving. That was when his father asked Ardros to tag along and keep an eye on him.

"I never dreamed he would abandon his people like this!"

"Oh, I'm afraid he has," he reassured her. "They have become very close."

"Does his father know?"

Ardros rubbed his jaw again. "Yes, he knows."

Goddess knows he won't do anything about it either.

Reila sighed deeply.

"Maybe it's out of his hands at this point," she said. "These matters are often left up to chance."

"Surely you don't approve of this," he eyed her skeptically.

"Well, even if I did," her fingers danced over his stomach. "it's not our place to intervene." she paused, then gasped. "Wait. You already tried, didn't you?"

For the moment, Ardros ignored her touch and felt bitterness coat his mouth. Fate would not be on Thielor's side, whether or not their strength was enough to overcome despair and regret. He knew Thielor would still know only pain.

Reila's touch suddenly snapped him back to the present. His chest went hot, his muscles tense.

"Of course not," he scoffed, shaking his head. "I would never dream of butting into his life," he moved on top of her. For now, he only focused on her. "Let's not speak of this again."

"Whatever doesn't distract you," she purred.

She softly caressed his back. As he stared in her eyes, he thought of their future. He would not see it ruined. Perhaps it was time to begin anew.

"Reila, I want to do something for you."

"What's that?" she crooned.

"I think it's time we moved to the capital."

When the rain finally cleared, Thielor and Leah stood on the top deck, watching the village grow smaller in the distance. Fog finally lifted enough to set sail. Dim moonlight rippled endlessly on the ocean, stretching as far as the eye could see. When Leah finally caught a glance of Teldrassil peering above the haze, wonder seized her eyes. She had never seen anything more beautiful.

"I wish we could visit the capital," Thielor suggested.

"Someday we will," she remarked, holding onto his arm. The ship swayed as it briefly banked toward the eastern sea. Leah hadn't felt as nauseous thanks to the tonic and welcomed a short walk before settling in for the night.

"I only hope the circumstances are better," Thielor said.

Leah nodded. Not much else was needed to be said regarding Ardros or the others. Thielor felt he may never see them again. Perhaps that was for the best.

"Tell me more about your mother," she said. "Everything happened so fast, I never got a chance to ask about her."

"She was a fast rider. Most elusive. She could hide in the barest tree and never be spotted," the hunter smiled, chuckling proudly. "She made sure I could hit the center of a target, or I was not going to play with friends. When the war started, she was recruited as a courier, given how fast she could ride," he sighed regretfully. "But it wasn't enough. She was barely alive when an adventurer found her." He felt his heart sink and sniffled slightly. "Well...you know the rest."

"I share your grief," Leah said solemnly. "No one is ever prepared to lose a parent."

Thielor shook his head. "I didn't get to tell her how much I loved her. She deserved to die knowing that."

"Somehow I think she knew."

"How?"

Leah looked up at him, "I believe that a mother knows, even if it's never spoken." she placed her hand over his heart, "She's always with you, wherever you are."

He felt some confusion but said nothing else. Some time went by, and they watched the horizon. Soon his mind settled until he spotted a blue speck of light on the shore. It coiled around one tree, then another, leaving a spectral trail behind it.

Leah pointed frantically. "Oh, look! Did you see that?"

"Yes! Wow..." he replied.

"It's so beautiful! What is that?"

"A wisp," he told her. "Ancient spirit of the forest. I never thought I would see one again!"

"What is it doing?"

"I can't really tell, but it's likely tending the trees."

"You mean caring for them?" she asked, nearing disbelief. "Keeping them alive?"

"That's right." Thielor nodded. "They keep the forest vibrant and even extract lumber without harming the tree."

The woman sighed. "Amazing. Your people focus on preservation rather than posturing. All for a common goal. I guess it's only natural for others to find that confusing or perhaps intimidating."

"I'm not sure I understand why," the hunter said. "but I doubt there is much we can do about it."

"Sure there is," Leah said plainly.

"Oh?"

"We can work together."

He hugged her close, disregarding anyone nearby.

"We're off to a good start."

Six Months Later

Leah and Thielor strolled into the Park. The chill of night prickled their skin as they watched residents stringing white and yellow lanterns from a row of trees surrounding the moonwell. Another group intricately lined a row of tables with food and drinks. Thielor spotted Thell among them and smiled. He was glad to see his friend had adjusted since their return. He did not wish to disturb him or anyone's efforts, however and kept his distance.

Beside him, Leah pulled her shawl around her shoulders. She had spent a great deal of time at the Cathedral and her home. It had been a few days since they spent any time together. Thankfully they had this time to catch up.

"You still haven't heard anything?" asked Leah.

The hunter grimly shook his head, not answering. He had written to his father every week since returning, but received nothing from him. He could almost picture the letters stacked on his floor, never being read. But why? They hadn't exactly parted on bad terms. He even accepted that Leah was a part of his life now. Thielor hated to assume the worst, that his father had changed his mind.

He felt Leah's fingers graze his hand, bringing him back to the present. The swell he felt in his stomach told him to dwell on more important matters.

Then a crazy thought popped into his mind.

"Leah, I've been thinking," he said.

"About what?"

"I spoke with Aidann last week. The war isn't slowing down any time soon," he said plainly. "And now the Dark Portal being watched closely."

"The portal that lead the Horde here."

"Yes," he nodded grimly. "So with all this I was thinking... Maybe we should go ahead with the binding ritual."

She paused and glanced behind her. Anyone that strolled by them – human or night elf – hadn't regarded them yet. Then she led him to a table nestled behind tall, dense shrubs. Slipping into the shadows here would be pointless. So far everyone seemed too distracted to notice them, but this was their only option.

In the city, they had to keep their appearance as friends. Both he and Leah were growing frustrated. So after returning, he and Bayla scouted areas near Mirror Lake until finding a path along the hillside. A narrow river ran along a small dock and an abandoned cottage, ending at a waterfall over the other side of the forest. From the right angle, he could almost see Westfall's watchtowers. The full moon at its peak almost reminded him of home.

Leah was surprised, not having known of it. When Thielor took her there, she was thrilled in spite of the steep, hilly terrain, and suggested meeting there when possible. The cottage was littered with broken furniture and debris, but once they cleared it all away, they packed it with supplies. It was finally a place where they could be truly be alone, free from pretense. A part of him wished to settle there, but Leah still needed to be with her parents.

They sat across from one another, leaning in close. The plan formed on their journey home, however, still hung in the balance. Thielor made clear in his last letter to his father that being with Leah was what he wanted.

"I thought you wanted to wait until your –"

"I won't worry about him now," he dismissively waved his hand. "This is more important."

Her eyes glinted with determination as she looked at him. "Then let's do it tonight."

The hunter gaped for a moment, struck by her suggestion.

"You're sure?"

She nodded, saying nothing. He swore a hint of fear wrinkled her lip, but he was too lifted by her words to question it.

He softly stroked her cheek. They had decent cover here, but he dearly wished they were at the cottage as another group strolled by. Thielor lowered his hand briefly. Leah swallowed, trying desperately not to make a sound. The shrub may have been dense but not enough to keep others from hearing them. As the group moved off, Leah rubbed her forehead. She hoped they were too busy with festival preparations.

"I'm glad your mother is doing better," Thielor said.

The priestess let her head drop slightly.

"Oh, you have no idea," she sighed. "Seeing her like that was heart wrenching."

Relief echoed in Thielor's mind. During Leah's absence, her father returned home and found Marlena had fallen down the stairs. He had gotten to her just in time, thankfully, but she broke several ribs and had a concussion. Leah kept blaming herself, saying that she should not have left home, even for a short time. But even as her mother slowly recovered, everyone reminded Leah that it was not her fault.

Thielor leaned in closer. "She is strong, like you."

"Thank you for helping us," she said, then kissed him. "My father wanted me to thank you as well."

The hunter nodded. Months ago, Braxton had left for a mining expedition. Leah asked Thielor to stay with Marlena when Leah studied. He had only basic first aid training, but he was able to help out around the house. In that time, they got to know each other better. Marlena spoke highly of him when Braxton returned. To he and Leah's surprise, Marlena and Braxton welcomed Thielor to their home anytime as long as he didn't stay overnight. This frustrated Leah, but it was the best her parents could offer.

"It's my honor to help anytime," Thielor said.

Beside them, the shrub rustled. As they backed away, Thell poked his head inside, startling them.

"Well, well. Not very inconspicuous, I see," he teased. The hunter and priestess chuckled for a moment, then glanced at each other, flushing briefly. Thell looked over them, lowering his brow. "Is everything okay?"

Leah tapped her fingers on the table. "Yes. Wonderful, in fact."

Thielor peered over the shrub, then stood. He clasped Thell's shoulder.

"Thell. Remember the cottage I told you about?"

"Of course. What do you need?"

"Meet us there later tonight."

Beneath the moonlight, Thielor and Leah joined hands. Her sheer veil and long, white dress swayed in the breeze. A feathered headdress and jeweled tiara lay upon a round table. Thell sprinkled lily petals around them, then raised his outstretched hand, reciting a blessing in both Common and Darnassian. As he spoke, Leah kept her gaze on Thielor. She exhaled deeply. His black formal attire and soft expression weakened her knees. For a moment, she swore she had dropped her white and yellow bouquet.

She smiled at him briefly, then lowered her eyes, dearly wishing Davin or her parents were here. Although no cleric or witnesses were needed for the ritual, she felt it was appropriate, at least by her traditions. But upon leaving the park, Leah felt it was best not involving them. Imposing secrets on him could compromise his position at the cathedral. And no matter how much Leah trusted him, this was her secret to keep.

As for her parents – they had already been through enough. She knew Thielor wanted his father to be here as well, but that was beyond them now.

Thielor gently squeezed her hand. She met his gaze, then focused on Thell as he gestured for them to close their distance.

"The blessing is finished," Thell declared, taking a step back. "Now you may recite your vows."

Leah moved forward and gently placed the headdress on his forehead, then softly touched his chest. His breathing, his heart beating filled her with lightness.

"Thielor, son of Sylari," she began, her voice trembling. "my heart and spirit are bound to you, from this moment on. I swear to stay by your side for however long we both endure."

Taking a deep breath, Thielor lifted her veil and placed the tiara on her head. His palm then rested on her chest. Joy shimmered in his eyes.

"Leah, daughter of Marlena, from this moment, I bind my heart and soul to you. I swear to love and honor you for as long as we both shall live."

Silence lingered for a moment. Leah had nearly forgotten what to say. Then as she recalled the words, she spoke shakily. "Our hearts –"

"Our hearts – " Thielor winked.

Thell's voice followed, " – beat as one."

The couple embraced, reciting in unison, " – beat as one."

"May the Light bless our journey," sniffled Leah.

"And may Elune guide us."

Leah smiled, yet could hardly restrain tears brimming her eyes. Thielor better understood human emotions. Tears were often normal when happiness overwhelmed them.

We did it. At last! repeated in her mind, tumbling with Thielor's excitement. For the first time, they buried any uncertainty in their decision.

Thell clasped his hands together. "Well, now. It is done. I'm proud to call you lifemates!" he happily said. The two were frozen, appearing lost in each other's eyes. Thell cleared his throat. "Thielor, what are you waiting for? Kiss her!"

"Oh, hush it, Thell. We're savoring the moment," Thielor laughed, then kissed Leah deeply. He abruptly lifted and spun her a couple of times. Leah flung her arms around him and let out a muffled laugh. When he set her down, she cleared her cheeks then turned to Thielor's friend.

"Thell, thank you," she said, handing him her bouquet.

He took it and raised a brow, then turned to Thielor. They clasped wrists.

"Thank you, my friend," said Thielor. "This means a lot to us."

"It was my honor," Thell nodded, then gathered his supplies. "What will you do now?"

The couple looked to each other, shrugging. Only fate would decide that.

"We'll see what each day holds," replied Thielor.

Later that night, they stood on the huge log bridge overlooking the river. Moonlight rippled on the surface like glass. Leah folded her arms over her chest, her teeth chattering as she huddled against Thielor's body for warmth.

"Thielor you can't be serious. I can't!"

He rubbed her arms. "Don't tell me you've never done this before."

"No! I'm not crazy!"

Thielor's chest rumbled with laughter.

"Oh, come on. It's not like there's an audience."

Leah shot him an angry look, but it quickly gave way to laughter as well. Leah glanced down at the blankets on the ground. Being stark naked outdoors felt so foolish. And to her people, it was crazy! But with all they had been through, it suddenly wasn't so outlandish. She took a slow, deep breath, moving beside him.

"Okay, okay. I'll try once, but if anything happens..."

"We'll be fine. I promise," he clasped her hand. "Ready?"

She stiffly nodded. "I think so."

"Don't worry. I'm right here," he reminded.

"All right," she slightly rolled her eyes. "Let's do it."

"We'll go on three," he paused, then leaned slightly forward. Leah gripped his hand tighter, mirroring his move. "One... Two..."

Okay... here goes... Just don't tell Mother about this...!

Leah curled her toes around the bark and held her breath.

Then Thielor shouted. "THREE!"

They leapt.

And Leah screamed.

For a split second, she swore they hovered before dropping feet-first, the surface rushing toward them. Exhilaration quickly erased her fears. She sealed her eyes shut and in seconds, all she felt was cold water seizing her lungs and Thielor's hand slip from her grasp. But it was quickly over as they both climbed ashore. Leah dug her fingers in the blanket, meeting Thielor's eyes. She saw her future in them.

And its mystery was wonderful to behold.