Hwang Kwahn strode confidently up the road leading to Paw’don, the usual shield slung across his back replaced with a pack laden with exotic ingredients and a few gifts for his mountain. It had been far too long since the weathered captain had seen his beloved. The escalation in the war had only meant more business and fewer opportunities for shore leave for the crew of the Serpent.
He took a deep breath as he entered the walls of the peaceful village. His ears quivered curiously. Perhaps it was just the salt in his blood keeping him on edge after the storm a couple days prior, but...Paw’don seemed to lack that calming aura it normally radiated.
A few minutes later, he turned a corner to come face to face with a familiar home. His rugged face lit up with a warm grin, even as a growing anxiety filled him. Getting closer only confirmed what his subconscious had already picked up on.
Tsuragao’s home, empty, dark and a window open. No note on the door explaining his absence.
Kwahn’s heart sank as his mind raced, thinking up possible explanations. He approached the empty home, resting a hand on the head of the hatchet hanging from his belt. “Tsu...?” He called out innocently, playing dumb in case any assailants were waiting inside. “Are you home?”
Peering inside the open window only confirmed his initial suspicions. Empty. Nothing would be learned like this. Kwahn carelessly tossed his pack to the ground, a few berries slipping out of their pouch and rolling across the ground from the sudden impact. There were more important things to worry about at the moment.
Kwahn glanced around briefly, making sure he wouldn’t be spotted. With surprising grace and agility for a Pandaren his age, he hoisted himself through the window into Tsu’s home. Once through, he drew his axe, clutching it tightly as he scanned the room for any disturbances.
@actualpanda
