It has definitely been a while...months? I don't even remember. Too long, anyway. Super sorry about that. I'm a busy student testing away, and I just sort of put off my joy of writing and imagining in favor of studying...not that I prefer the latter. Anywho, Caldur and Allacaya have been rekindled in my mind as of recent, and I couldn't help but finish the next chapter :)

And I hope saying that I'll be surprised if I still have the support of all my readers after such a long wait isn't too pessimistic. I've truly missed posting these and getting feedback in return. Also, sorry if there are any major spelling/grammar/general mistakes...I kind of rushed through this ^^'

*Disclaimer is the same as always~

"Azuremyst Isle?"

My lavender-haired companion lowered his map so that he could peer at me over the parchment's singed edge.

"That's the one."

He returned his attention to the layout in his hands, and I cautiously made my way over to his side so that I could catch a glimpse of what he was looking at. We had decided to stop and try to get a good sense of where we were; it's only a pity that my traveling partner wasn't as capable as he had previously claimed to be. Still, at least we were getting somewhere now. I pointed at an interesting-looking island just above where Caldur had declared our current location was.

"What's that? It's connected."

The Night Elf's brow furrowed a bit. He hesitated before answering.

"Bloodmyst."

I took notice of the discomfort lingering in his voice.

"Is it bad?"

Golden eyes flickered up to regard me bemusedly.

"Bad how?"

I rolled my eyes.

"I don't know… You just said it like it was a disease or something."

He chewed at his lip thoughtfully before decidedly folding up the map and sticking it into his rugged waistcoat pocket. Now that I think about it, his overall choice of attire was pretty odd. I mean, who wears an old waistcoat together with patched-up pants and combat boots? It's a bit contradictory; so, instead of waiting for him to reply, I instead inquired about his appearance.

"What's with your get-up? You look like you looted an Undead."

The Elf appeared to be genuinely miffed. He lifted his chin and puffed out his chest like a prideful child.

"Looted?" he scowled, "I'll have you know these clothes were a gift."

I lifted a brow disbelievingly.

"Someone must have a grudge against you then."

His hand rose to rub at his neck subconsciously. He sniffed.

"A lot of people do, it would seem."

Caldur started walking, and, naturally, I followed. What a curious fellow. He seems so open and carefree on the outside, yet, whenever I ask a question that pertains to him he seems to shy away. It probably has to do with why Dentaria had been picking on him. The Priestess is only popular to those who can't see her for who she truly is. People like us, on the other hand, have a clear understanding of her vile ways. She disregards the health of those who can't afford better and offers fake blessings to those who can. She's nothing more than a narcissistic Harpy, and I'd do anything to drive a blade through her gullet. Perhaps, Caldur feels the same. Maybe she took something away from him as well. Still, I'm not confident enough to ask. I know that's a sore subject. If he'd asked me about my parents then I probably would've withdrawn a bit, too.

What of Nar then? I can't help but be worried about him. After all, I did just sort of leave him all alone with Dentaria Silverglade herself. He's a strong, little Elf…but he's got a soft spot in his heart when it comes to emotional turmoil. That's why he clings to me—even if he never admits it. When he looks at me, he sees a mirror image; I am a possibility, a puzzle piece that could match up with one in his future. He's sticking around me, because he's aware that he could be standing in my shoes a century or two from now. Maybe even mere decades. Sure, he oftentimes speaks of his supposed noble-man of a father, but that doesn't mean a damn thing. Nar's father could be the king of the world, and Dentaria still wouldn't kneel in his presence. It didn't matter. It just didn't matter.

"Draenei straight ahead," a low voice whispered in my ear.

I jolted a bit and glanced sideways first at Caldur, who of which had slowed his pace to match mine, and then up to the single Draenei that was walking down the grassy path in our direction. Puzzled, and slightly scared, I muttered back.

"Is he dangerous?"

Golden eyes flashed warningly.

"There is no doubt in my mind that Dentaria has already managed to spread word of our escape. Anyone within reach of a short Hippogryph flight should be aware of who we are and what we've done by this point in time."

I swallowed heavily and did my best to straighten myself and look passive as we practically brushed shoulders with the Draenei. Well…I say brushed shoulders, but it was more like my head just about brushed it. I'd heard stories, but I had no idea that the creatures were truly this massive. No wonder they preferred Elekks for mounts. To top things off, the Draenei was a Paladin, so his body was veiled in thick chains that made him appear that much sturdier—I bet if I punched him he wouldn't even feel it; rather, I'd probably just break my entire arm trying. Also, he had a huge hammer…and I mean huge. Nevertheless, he obviously had the strength to lift it. I wonder if Orcs were as big as that. Elune…I'd hate to meet an Orc.

"Oi, you two…"

The blood froze in my veins as my body came to a complete stop in response to the deep, uncertain voice. In my peripheral vision, Caldur shook his head once. Okay…whatever that meant. Heavy hooves thumped against the earth as the Draenei backtracked a ways and halted in front of us. His azure skin shone a faint lilac hue in the light of the evening sun. His glowing, blue eyes regarded us suspiciously.

"What are a couple of small Elves like you doing prancin' about in a place like this, eh?"

The question didn't sound overly condemning. Though, I was immensely relieved when Caldur decided to reply with a bit of hesitation.

"We just fancied a bit of a journey. I've heard plenty of good things about Azuremyst," the Night Elf shrugged his shoulders and smiled bashfully as if the lie were absolutely true.

Too bad it wasn't quite convincing enough. The Draenei leaned forward until he was practically nose-to-nose with Caldur and inhaled deeply, an action that made my companion tense uncomfortably. The creature's liquid sapphire eyes narrowed as he considered the Elf before him.

"I am no fool, elfling. I know the smell of blood, and it rests heavily upon your flesh," the Draenei slowly straightened, his large hand tightening around the handle of his hammer, "What is your business here?"

Panic sparked within me. Had we already been found out? What if the Draenei decided to attack? How could we possibly fend off such a large beast? As I mulled over these constantly growing horrors, Caldur, in contradiction, had taken a step forward, shoulders squared, and tilted his head up to glare challengingly at the Paladin.

"Why should I tell you? A person's business is his own," the Elf crossed his arms, "Besides, don't we all have a bit of blood on our hands? It's part of the job."

Blue met gold, and electricity seemed to crackle between the two as they sized each other up. That idiot…why was he picking a fight? Now we're really done for…

"Fair point, small one. What do you call yourself?"

The Night Elf eased up slightly, his expression relaxing.

"Caldur," his eyes flickered in my direction briefly, "and that's my traveling partner…Allaberry."

I bristled. What? Alla-what? Did he seriously just stick 'berry' onto the end of my name? I bet he forgot. What an idiot. Simmering silently, I scowled at the Elf and averted my attention to keep from making a big fuss about it. Meanwhile, the Draenei gave a short nod, lifted his arm, and pounded his big fist against his chest, rattling the chainmail that hung there.

"Banstro," he rumbled.

How fitting. The Draenei looked between us a couple of times before waving the air in front of him meaningfully.

"Do forgive me for being so inquisitive, but, it is my job to do so. If I may make up for it, please allow me to guide you to wherever it is that you are heading."

Before I could speak up and mention what a big help that would be, Caldur gave a crooked smile and beat me to it.

"That won't be necessary, but thanks. Allaberry and I are more than capable of finding our way around. Right?" He glanced at me.

I glowered, but complied nonetheless.

"Yeah…"

Banstro nodded and hit his fist against his chest once again. I suppose it was some sort of salute.

"Then I apologize for my previous rudeness. Dioniss aca, elflings."

With that, the Draenei clomped his way past us and continued along the path until he rounded a corner and disappeared from our sights. It was only then that I was able to completely relax. I let out a long breath of relief and lifted a hand to brush back stray strands of hair that I had been too nervous to fix in the Paladin's presence. Caldur wrinkled his nose distastefully and tilted his head to regard me.

"I've never been overly fond of Draenei."

I blinked, a little perplexed.

"You've encountered them before?"

The Night Elf shoved his hands into his pockets and began walking along the path. I jogged forward until I was at his side and then slowed to match his light pace. I couldn't help but marvel at him. In comparison to others of our race, he's quite handsome; and I don't mean that just because I haven't gotten out much—trust me, I've seen plenty of people, including different races, in my life time. He's just got one of those appealing, face shapes—high cheekbones, strong jaw, tapering chin—and, alongside that, he's got the feline ferocity, bear-like strength, and elk-like elegance of a Druid. He's an all-in-one package deal…if that doesn't sound too weird.

"Once or twice," he shrugged, "I've probably been around since before you were even born, so I've seen plenty of crazy stuff out in this big, wide world."

Then there's his voice. It's low, but smooth—not too deep and has just enough of an elfish lilt to give it that enchanting sort of effect. Whenever he speaks, one can't help but listen. Every time he talks it seems as though he's got something important to say, as if every word counts. His golden eyes have undoubtedly bared witness to unimaginable horrors, yet, at the same time, I very much believe that he has seen just as many breathtaking wonders. Caldur is definitely a complex puzzle…but he's one I've become determined to solve.

"Ah, would you look at that… There's a hole in my boot."

I followed his disappointed gaze to see that three of his toes were indeed sticking out of the front of his worn, right boot. Slightly humored, I motioned to his general person.

"It's about time you made a wardrobe change anyway."

Caldur ogled at me as if I'd just suggested he should go streaking through Orgrimmar. He tugged at his waistcoat subconsciously.

"There's nothing wrong with my clothes."

I lifted a brow.

"Just because they were a gift?"

A scowl crossed his face, which just as quickly transpired into a pitiful pout. He fingered the buttons on his coat.

"It's more so because of who gave them to me."

A bit of nostalgia began to creep into his expression, but he extinguished it with a swift shake of his head. I observed him oddly, curiosity building within me.

"Who? A friend?"

He couldn't help it. His lips started to curve upwards.

"You could say that."

"A good friend?"

The Elf chuckled, a sound as sweet as honey.

"She's a pretty good friend, yeah."

Something fluttered in my chest at that. She? So…he had someone special waiting for him back at home? Or…are we perhaps looking for her now? A bit of amusement leaked into my voice.

"Girlfriend?" I suppose it wouldn't have surprised me if he had confirmed it to be so.

My companion lifted a hand to rub at the back of his neck awkwardly. It took him a minute or so to respond.

"No," he snorted, "She already has a rather charming fellow looking after her."

I hummed thoughtfully.

"If she's such a good friend, then how come she isn't here helping you?"

Caldur lowered his head. A bit of guilt glinted in his bright, golden orbs.

"I promised myself I wouldn't mess her life up any more than I already have…"

"Then why-"

The Night Elf clamped a hand over my mouth so suddenly that I nearly stumbled and fell. My eyes darted to the side to see him proffering a strained smile.

"Time to shut up now."

I jerked away from his hand and glared daggers at him. Fine, if he wanted to be so secretive then he could be secretive. It's not like I cared. No, I didn't care at all. That idiot can just go crawl in a hole and die for all I care.

"Allaberry…"

I grimaced and turned away from him, fully prepared to just storm off and find my own way back home, when, abruptly, I was tackled to the ground. A grunt escaped me as my back collided with the rugged earth. Something heavy landed on top of me. Then, before I even realized what was going on, I was being rolled sideways. It was only when my head finally caught up with me that I began to struggle. Strong hands gripped my shoulders and pinned me against the ground. No…wait. Those aren't hands. Paws. They were paws. I blinked several times to clear the stars from my gaze. A snarling maw appeared in my field of vision, and I started to shriek; however, something furry invaded my mouth, choking back the sound until it died in my throat. A low, guttural voice addressed me.

"I said shut up," it growled, "There are more Draenei coming."

Caldur? It took a while, but once I remembered that the Elf could, in fact, shift into a large cat, I allowed my racing heart to slow and my muscles to loosen.

"Idiot," I mumbled around a mouthful of fur.

Golden eyes twinkled down at me, and then the tail was removed from my face. I stuck my tongue out disgustedly.

"You could have just told me."

Something dark flashed across the feline's face.

"I tried. Apparently, you had other things on your mind."

I tilted my head to the side so that he couldn't see the embarrassed coloring of my cheeks. I suppose I did get a little moody back there, didn't I?

"Sorry…"

He seemed to smile, though it was somewhat hard to tell considering when his lips peeled back it just looked like he was snarling. The approaching sound of heavy hoof beats made us both stiffen, and we waited fearfully in the foliage where Caldur had rolled us as they passed. As they passed, I estimated by ear that there were at least three of them. I have no idea if any of them were as big as the first one, but I figured it was probably smartest to just lay low and not take any unnecessary chances.

"This is turning out to be more difficult than I thought," Caldur uttered uncertainly.

Once the hoof beats faded, I pushed the Druid off of me and rose into a kneeling position, brushing dirt and lavender fur off of my already filthy clothes as I did so. My companion, on the other hand, slowly shifted back into his Elf form—a feat I found most intriguing to watch—and then slipped a long dagger out from where it was hidden in his boot. I gawked.

"Why the hell do you have that? Since when do Druids use daggers?"

Caldur beamed at me and flipped the blade expertly in the air.

"Since when does a one-armed Troll fall in love with a Night Elf? Impossible things happen every day, Allaberry."

What a weirdo. I shook my head and used the tree beside me for support as I rose to my feet. My companion waggled his eyebrows at me in a manner that was absolutely ridiculous even though it was obvious he thought it charming. Rolling my eyes, I fingered the hem of my pants until I felt the handle of my own dagger. I drew it from its place and couldn't help but smirk at the somewhat impressed expression I received in response.

"Well, even if you can use a blade, you're certainly no match for me."

Caldur laughed and leveled his weapon at my face. The playful innocence he had been addressing me with so far shifted into a feral sort of energy as the familiarity of a challenge clicked within his brain. Before I could so much as twitch, my dagger had been flicked out of my hand, spun over my head, and then repositioned against my throat. Cool metal nipped at my skin. Icy breath misted against my cheek.

"You're several hundred years too early to be pointing a dagger at me."

I swallowed. He continued, and what he said next had me grinning despite my precarious position.

"I've seen things you wouldn't believe. I've swam in a sea of stars. I've walked amongst a forest made of crystals and ash. I've stood at the peaks of mountains that tower above the clouds. I've fought beasts that could destroy entire villages… And I've survived," the knife edge lowered from my neck, "Do you want to know why?"

I whirled around so that I could see him—so that I could take in the impossible being that graced me with his presence. All he did was stand there, smiling giddily like the fool he was whilst twirling a dagger between his hands, yet I could sense it. I could sense all of the magnificence that he had seen, all of the glory he had surmounted to. So, why then? Why was he here? The corners of my lips twitched upwards.

"Kind of."

He laughed.

"Because I'm going to find my brother," the Night Elf reached forward and poked me in the nose, "and you're going to help me."