How glorious it all is, the mighty army of the Argent Crusade as it makes its way through the horror that is Icecrown. Before us lies the imposing Icecrown Citadel. A vast and hideous black fortress atop a frozen mountain, its spires reaching high into the sky like black claws scratching the heavens.
This army is small, but it is the best that the combined might of the Alliance and the Horde has to offer. At its head stands the indomitable Trion Fordring, one of the finest humans I have ever met and the only person who could have conceived and built this unstoppable army. In truth, I wish my ability to lead my tiny warband was as good as his ability to inspire this army.
My name is Lady Annora Sunstrider... and I am a paladin of the light. I was inspired to become a leader by my great uncle Prince Kael'thas Sunstrider. He was forced to lead my people, the Sin'dorei, when his father was killed in a battle with Arthas. It was much later in Outland that I was forced to kill my uncle because of his foolish plans to summon a great demon lord of the Burning Legion. After that time, I went into hiding and changed my name to Squish.
My reasons are my own for picking such a foolish sounding name. Sometimes I worry that it has undermined my authority and standing within the Horde. From what I gather Squish in the Orcish language means soft. Honestly, even knowing that, I kind of like its implications, it puts the other warlords who work for Garrosh off their guard.
A signal is given, and the column comes to a stop at the foot of the grand stairs that lead up to the Citadel. The siege equipment is being brought up for the assault.
I watch as Trion spurs his warhorse to the side of the column, in his hand he holds aloft the mighty sword Ashbringer, as if to strike fear in the enemies that watch him from above, and to inspire the crusaders he leads to this fight.
"Rise up Argent Crusaders!! The hour of justice has come!!" Trion cries out.
The assembled army lets out a mighty cry. I feel the pride and inspiration at being here in this moment of glory.
The siege train moves forward up the stairs to begin battering down the gates of Icecrown. Overhead I hear the chilling screams of gargoyles who have been harassing the crusade ever since we began our march. A few well placed spells and arrows are enough to keep them at bay.
"Lady Squish!!" A rider calls out as he brings his charger to a halt before us. "You are commanded to take your warband up to the westernmost heights of the Citadel."
The rider points to a series of balconies high above us "Up there where those Argent Crusade banners have been hung. You are to be part of a expeditionary force into the upper reaches."
"On whose orders are these commands given?" I shout over the din of battle around us.
"By order of Lady Sylvanas Windrunner. You are to meet her up there" the courier shouts back.
I am intrigued. An expeditionary force into the upper reaches? Perhaps a premptive strike against Arthas himself?
"Bloodlust!!" I cry "take to the skies!!"
At my command the two score members of my mercenary unit launch into the air on the backs of their wyverns, drakes and other assorted flying mounts.
Today we either charge to a hideous death, or to timeless glory as a hero of Azeroth.
Monday, December 28, 2009
pt 29 The father who couldn't love
"Comon ya litl runt!! Swing dah axe harda!!"
The massive weapon feels like a boat's anchor in my little hands. It is heavy and unbalanced, not at all like my beloved dagger.
The frothing beast lunges at me again, its razor sharp tusks nearly slicing me open. However, I am too quick for the starving boar and I deftly jump to the side. If I could use this stupid axe I would carry through with a killing blow. My feeble attempt to swing it is met with roaring laughter and cheers from the assembled crowds in the arena.
"Meekha git stronga, swing dah axe!!" my father yells to me from above the fighting pit. I look up to see his disgusting, pale face glaring down at me.
The boar pauses for a moment, as it lifts its head up to squeal ferociously at the crowd. Once again I miss an opportunity to finish it off because of this axe. Instead I retreat to the far edge of the fighting ring, dragging the useless weapon with me. The crowd boos my actions, I hear someone call me a coward.
Suddenly, I trip on something and fall hard on my backside into the blood stained sand. At my feet is a splintered leg bone.
The boar notices me again and charges. I try to scamper back away from it but it is on me in an instant. I grab its tusks to keep it from goring me, the beast bites and snorts frantically. My little arms can't hold the monster for long and my life flashes before my eyes.
Above me I see the crowds looking down on me. They all have an eager blood lust in their eyes. Here it doesn't matter who I am, where I have been, who I have loved, or who loves me. Instead I have one task, to die in the most memorable and grisly way to appease the masses. I look into the face of the Orc that I am told is my father. I don't see love or compassion. He's not going to jump down and save me. Instead I see what I think is anger, perhaps he is displeased that he will lose the money that he bet on me this night. What should I expect, he is a Death knight, I remember hearing someone say he lost his soul a very long time ago.
Without warning, the frothing boar whips his head to the side, tossing me through the air like a rag doll. I hit hard against the side of the arena and slide down into the dirt. Ragged and battered I look up to see the beast preparing another charge against me. I frantically feel around for something to fight with. Then, my hand lands on the splintered leg bone I tripped over before. Gripping it tightly, it feels like a dagger in my hand.
The boar squeals loudly and charges me in a flash. I hold my makeshift weapon up to protect myself. As the boar crashes into me, the bone pierces its tough flesh at the neck. Blood sprays everywhere as the boar screams in pain. The crowd roars with delight.
I jump to my feet and scurry across the ring to my axe. I grab its handle and put my back against the opposite wall. Meanwhile, the beast whirls in a circle trying to pull the bone out of its neck. Then it stops and looks at me hard. It's milky eyes filled with pain fuelled rage.
Time slows down again, as I watch the beast preparing to charge at me. I smell the stench of sweat, blood, and orcish ale. I once again look up at my so-called father, he glares at me with those hollow glowing eyes. I long for the love that I felt from my Master, he would never have subjected me to this nightmare.
The boar charges, its horrible squeal rising above the roar of the crowd and echoing through the arena. With all my strength I dodge to the side, and watch the boar smash hard into the arena wall. The beast stands helpless as I raise the axe into the air.
I swing the axe downward with all my might and watch the sharp blade bite into the back of the beasts neck, and slices through before jarring hard against the floor below. In an instant the horrible screaming stops and the beast falls down. Blood flows like a river across the ground.
The crowd roars again. Their blood lust has been fulfilled, and to my amazement it is not by my blood.
I look up at my father, hoping to see joy that I survived. Instead I am faced with that terrible glare. He does not celebrate with the others, instead he sits in disappointment, as if somehow he lost.
I watch as another Orc steps up to him with his hand out, and my father, Goregreedy the Death knight, presses a bag of coins into his hand.
The massive weapon feels like a boat's anchor in my little hands. It is heavy and unbalanced, not at all like my beloved dagger.
The frothing beast lunges at me again, its razor sharp tusks nearly slicing me open. However, I am too quick for the starving boar and I deftly jump to the side. If I could use this stupid axe I would carry through with a killing blow. My feeble attempt to swing it is met with roaring laughter and cheers from the assembled crowds in the arena.
"Meekha git stronga, swing dah axe!!" my father yells to me from above the fighting pit. I look up to see his disgusting, pale face glaring down at me.
The boar pauses for a moment, as it lifts its head up to squeal ferociously at the crowd. Once again I miss an opportunity to finish it off because of this axe. Instead I retreat to the far edge of the fighting ring, dragging the useless weapon with me. The crowd boos my actions, I hear someone call me a coward.
Suddenly, I trip on something and fall hard on my backside into the blood stained sand. At my feet is a splintered leg bone.
The boar notices me again and charges. I try to scamper back away from it but it is on me in an instant. I grab its tusks to keep it from goring me, the beast bites and snorts frantically. My little arms can't hold the monster for long and my life flashes before my eyes.
Above me I see the crowds looking down on me. They all have an eager blood lust in their eyes. Here it doesn't matter who I am, where I have been, who I have loved, or who loves me. Instead I have one task, to die in the most memorable and grisly way to appease the masses. I look into the face of the Orc that I am told is my father. I don't see love or compassion. He's not going to jump down and save me. Instead I see what I think is anger, perhaps he is displeased that he will lose the money that he bet on me this night. What should I expect, he is a Death knight, I remember hearing someone say he lost his soul a very long time ago.
Without warning, the frothing boar whips his head to the side, tossing me through the air like a rag doll. I hit hard against the side of the arena and slide down into the dirt. Ragged and battered I look up to see the beast preparing another charge against me. I frantically feel around for something to fight with. Then, my hand lands on the splintered leg bone I tripped over before. Gripping it tightly, it feels like a dagger in my hand.
The boar squeals loudly and charges me in a flash. I hold my makeshift weapon up to protect myself. As the boar crashes into me, the bone pierces its tough flesh at the neck. Blood sprays everywhere as the boar screams in pain. The crowd roars with delight.
I jump to my feet and scurry across the ring to my axe. I grab its handle and put my back against the opposite wall. Meanwhile, the beast whirls in a circle trying to pull the bone out of its neck. Then it stops and looks at me hard. It's milky eyes filled with pain fuelled rage.
Time slows down again, as I watch the beast preparing to charge at me. I smell the stench of sweat, blood, and orcish ale. I once again look up at my so-called father, he glares at me with those hollow glowing eyes. I long for the love that I felt from my Master, he would never have subjected me to this nightmare.
The boar charges, its horrible squeal rising above the roar of the crowd and echoing through the arena. With all my strength I dodge to the side, and watch the boar smash hard into the arena wall. The beast stands helpless as I raise the axe into the air.
I swing the axe downward with all my might and watch the sharp blade bite into the back of the beasts neck, and slices through before jarring hard against the floor below. In an instant the horrible screaming stops and the beast falls down. Blood flows like a river across the ground.
The crowd roars again. Their blood lust has been fulfilled, and to my amazement it is not by my blood.
I look up at my father, hoping to see joy that I survived. Instead I am faced with that terrible glare. He does not celebrate with the others, instead he sits in disappointment, as if somehow he lost.
I watch as another Orc steps up to him with his hand out, and my father, Goregreedy the Death knight, presses a bag of coins into his hand.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
pt 28 The reckoning
"Many of you have experienced a betrayal of trust. Yet you perservere, as we all must. In these times, no one is a stranger to the virtue of tenacity. In the face of depair and hatred, we continue to stand true to our beliefs and fight on. There can be no doubt as to your tenacity... but there are other virtues to consider."
I have taken up a seat in the makeshift Chapel of the Light in the Argent Pavilion at the Tournament grounds in Icecrown. Before us stands Argent Confessor Paletress. She is giving aa sermon to a group of Alliance and Horde warriors who are preparing for their march on Icecrown Citadel. This seems like to best place to be inconspicuous as I prepare for my grisly task. Outside the pavilion I can hear the hustle and bustle of soldiers preparing for war.
"Look across the aisle to those you call enemy. Despite the hatred that separated you, there are qualities to respect in your opponent. Their prowess should be acknowledged. Respect your opponent on the field, whether he be your brother or your sworn enemy. No matter where your beliefs truly lie, such respect is acknowledging a connection... and in acknowledging those connections, you are closer to the Light."
The Light... In all my years I have never come to understand this force that serves the saintly and the wretched zealot alike. I have known of powerful paladins like Trion, who seem to serve good. I have also met the mysterious Naruu, the source of the Light. Then, I have met fools that use the light for their own selfish ends like that paladin I killed in Thunderbluff. Then of course I have also met the sinister and wretched who use the light for evil deeds like the Dark Iron Dwarves. I just don't understand how this Light can be a tool of pure goodness. It is not balance.
"By feeling and understanding compassion in enemy and ally alike, you reaffirm your connection with the world. Acting on these tenets, these virtues, help make the world a place we all can appreciate. A world of honor and justice."
Honor and justice... important precepts. Clearly the basis of civilization. How can we believe in them when we have leaders like Varian Wrynn and Garrosh Hellscream? Today, I seek to change all that.
"... In the darkness that surrounds us all, the Light is needed more than ever. I'll be behind the confessional screen if anyone wishes to speak with me.."
One by one the congregation stands, Human and Orc, Troll and Dranaei. Some form a line at the confessional screen, others shuffle out of the chapel to prepare for the coming siege of Icecrown.
I sit for a cold and lonely moment. In facing death, all manner of weakness and doubt tends to creep into your mind. As the last of the warriors finish their confessions, I stand. My legs are tembling beneath me. Then, Paletress steps out from behind the screen and looks at me inquisitively.
"Tauren, do you want to confess anything? You seem to have a heavy weight on your soul. Any worries or doubts you have I will happily soothe.." she says to me with a smile.
I can't help but look at the zealot with a scowl on my face.
"Your Light cannot help me this day Paletress." I softly reply to her.
Once again she smiles at me. "The Light helps all who seek righteousness Tauren. Let me try to help you."
Her words remind me of the noble inspiration that Trion instills. Without saying a word I slowly walk behind her confessional screen. She steps in with me and looks at me expectantly.
"Well since you think that your light can help me I will tell you what troubles me." I pause for a moment to collect my thoughts, wondering why I am taking part in this foolishness. "I have come to the Argent Tournament grounds to murder Garrosh Hellscream. He killed my adopted daughter and her blood cries out for vengence."
Paletress looks at me with a horrified stare.
"As a druid I have learned and embraced the way of balance in all things. This war that Garrosh and your wretched King are taking us into is wrong, and I seek to stop it or die trying."
The priestess shakes her head. "Druid, you are mistaken. Killing Garrosh will only drive turmoil into the ranks of your people. It may even divide you. It is this divide that Varian will strike at and take advantage of. If you do this you will be the one bringing us to war."
Remarkably the anger does not rise in me as it once would at her words. Instead I am frustrated and confused.
"This is not the time to seek retribution Tauren. If Garrosh killed your daughter then justice must be done, but not now. Can't you see that the Horde and Alliance march together to rid the world of Arthas, who threatens to destroy us all. Your daughter would want a world that is rid of injustice."
"Your words Paletress..." I say with a sneer "are like snowflakes on a hot forge. Destiny has brought me here, overcoming obstacles that are unfathomable to you. Destiny will guide my hand this afternoon."
I stand up with renewed vigor and turn to leave the Chapel. Behind me Paletress stands and watches me go with a frown on her face.
As I step outside into the cold air I look about and see the Argent Crusade gathering for their march. Hundreds of souls from all the races of Azeroth have assembled in glorious order.
Then, I see them. Garrosh stands at the side of Thrall, nearby stands King Varian Wyrnn. Between them stands Trion Fordring. Around them are assembled their royal guards, and a woman I recognize from my days in Dalaran, the mage Jaina Proudmore.
All the threads of fate and balance have come to this point... If this is destiny then I can kill Garrosh and Varian at the same time. Everyone will see. The world will be shaken to its foundation.
"Tauren, don't do this" Paletress says from behind me.
Strength that I have never known surges through my body.
"Do not try to stop me human, or you will be next" I say to her over my shoulder.
"MEEKHA YOU WILL BE AVENGED THIS DAY!!!" I scream at the top of my lungs as I spring forward and shift into lion form.
All eyes turn to me as I sprint across the expanse towards my enemies. Everyone is so stunned that not even the royal guards react to my charge.
Suddenly, roots burst from the ground and catch me in their throny embrace. As I struggle to break their grasp a hammer hits me hard on the head. Then I am assaulted on all sides by Orc warriors. They seemed to be waiting for me!!
I roar with rage and frustration. However, instead of swords, axes and spears piercing my flesh, the mob surrounding me grabs me from all sides, holding me prone. I shift to bear form to escape, but they hold me fast. I was so close.
"What is the meaning of this!" Trion says as he walks up to the dog pile that holds me down.
From the assembled crowd steps a lithe Blood elf in the thick armor of a paladin.
"My Lord Fordring, please excuse our friend... he is not in his right mind and we have come to collect him before he hurts himself." the elf says with a smile.
That elf I immediately recognize as Squish. That vengeful bitch somehow knew of my plan and stopped me... but how did she know it was me?
Thrall and Garrosh walk over to survey the commotion.
"Lady Annora!! Why are you not getting your warband prepared for Icecrown Citadel" Garrosh exclaims. "Didn't you get my letter?"
"Of course I did Overlord, and we are ready as promised." Squish replies with a bow.
I continue in vain to struggle against my captors. Tears roll out of my eyes at the knowledge that righteous vengence has been robbed of me. Poor Meekha, there will be no rest for her soul.
Then I see her... a tall and graceful tauren women kneels before my face. It is Charibdys!! I should have known, she somehow found me, she lead them here to betray me!!
"Calm yourself" she says
My anger and frustration are too much to bear, but they give me new strength and I continue to struggle.
"Diogenes!!" Charibdys exclaims "calm yourself!!"
The utterance of my human name strikes through me like a nail. The shock forces me to lose control over my mastery of shapeshifting, I change back to tauren and my captors finally get a good hold on me.
Garrosh, Thrall and Trion turn back to their business of assembling the crusade. Meanwhile Squish joins Charibdys in front of my face.
"Ahh, here we have the mighty Calmfury. My what a cunning disguise you have. I would have never known it was you if you didn't reveal yourself like a moron." Squish says sarcastically.
"You vengeful elfin bitch!!" I spit on the ground. "How dare you stop me!! I was so close to getting vengence and stopping this entire war. You had no right!!"
"Oh but Calmfury, what in the world would you want to hurt our leaders for?"
"For my Meekha, he killed me daughter!!" I scream
"Calmfury!" Charibdys shouts in my face as she grabs me by my horn "Meekha is alive, Garrosh never killed her."
I am stunned. All my anger, all my rage, all my frustration melts away in an instant. Those words, I could never have imagined to be uttered.
"Alive... you are a liar!" I manage to say over my grief.
"No my dear Calmfury, she is alive" Squish says with a sort of twisted delight. "and if you help me in my assault on Icecrown Citadel, I will bring you to her."
Tears roll from my eyes like they never have before. I have no words to describe this feeling in my heart. It is like pain and relief all at the same time. I lay there in the snow for a long moment trying to come to grips.
"Vorack!" Squish exclaims to one of her warband. "I want you to fetch Darqyn, tell him we need a portal opened to Dalaran at once." the Forsaken scout nods as he turns to find the warbands mage.
Once again Squish turns to me. "So, what say you Calmfury, will you pledge yourelf to my cause?"
I look into her sneering elfin face for a moment. "It seems I have no choice." I manage to say with contempt.
"Good" Squish replies as she stands up. "and this time there will be no leaving. Your in my service for life."
I have taken up a seat in the makeshift Chapel of the Light in the Argent Pavilion at the Tournament grounds in Icecrown. Before us stands Argent Confessor Paletress. She is giving aa sermon to a group of Alliance and Horde warriors who are preparing for their march on Icecrown Citadel. This seems like to best place to be inconspicuous as I prepare for my grisly task. Outside the pavilion I can hear the hustle and bustle of soldiers preparing for war.
"Look across the aisle to those you call enemy. Despite the hatred that separated you, there are qualities to respect in your opponent. Their prowess should be acknowledged. Respect your opponent on the field, whether he be your brother or your sworn enemy. No matter where your beliefs truly lie, such respect is acknowledging a connection... and in acknowledging those connections, you are closer to the Light."
The Light... In all my years I have never come to understand this force that serves the saintly and the wretched zealot alike. I have known of powerful paladins like Trion, who seem to serve good. I have also met the mysterious Naruu, the source of the Light. Then, I have met fools that use the light for their own selfish ends like that paladin I killed in Thunderbluff. Then of course I have also met the sinister and wretched who use the light for evil deeds like the Dark Iron Dwarves. I just don't understand how this Light can be a tool of pure goodness. It is not balance.
"By feeling and understanding compassion in enemy and ally alike, you reaffirm your connection with the world. Acting on these tenets, these virtues, help make the world a place we all can appreciate. A world of honor and justice."
Honor and justice... important precepts. Clearly the basis of civilization. How can we believe in them when we have leaders like Varian Wrynn and Garrosh Hellscream? Today, I seek to change all that.
"... In the darkness that surrounds us all, the Light is needed more than ever. I'll be behind the confessional screen if anyone wishes to speak with me.."
One by one the congregation stands, Human and Orc, Troll and Dranaei. Some form a line at the confessional screen, others shuffle out of the chapel to prepare for the coming siege of Icecrown.
I sit for a cold and lonely moment. In facing death, all manner of weakness and doubt tends to creep into your mind. As the last of the warriors finish their confessions, I stand. My legs are tembling beneath me. Then, Paletress steps out from behind the screen and looks at me inquisitively.
"Tauren, do you want to confess anything? You seem to have a heavy weight on your soul. Any worries or doubts you have I will happily soothe.." she says to me with a smile.
I can't help but look at the zealot with a scowl on my face.
"Your Light cannot help me this day Paletress." I softly reply to her.
Once again she smiles at me. "The Light helps all who seek righteousness Tauren. Let me try to help you."
Her words remind me of the noble inspiration that Trion instills. Without saying a word I slowly walk behind her confessional screen. She steps in with me and looks at me expectantly.
"Well since you think that your light can help me I will tell you what troubles me." I pause for a moment to collect my thoughts, wondering why I am taking part in this foolishness. "I have come to the Argent Tournament grounds to murder Garrosh Hellscream. He killed my adopted daughter and her blood cries out for vengence."
Paletress looks at me with a horrified stare.
"As a druid I have learned and embraced the way of balance in all things. This war that Garrosh and your wretched King are taking us into is wrong, and I seek to stop it or die trying."
The priestess shakes her head. "Druid, you are mistaken. Killing Garrosh will only drive turmoil into the ranks of your people. It may even divide you. It is this divide that Varian will strike at and take advantage of. If you do this you will be the one bringing us to war."
Remarkably the anger does not rise in me as it once would at her words. Instead I am frustrated and confused.
"This is not the time to seek retribution Tauren. If Garrosh killed your daughter then justice must be done, but not now. Can't you see that the Horde and Alliance march together to rid the world of Arthas, who threatens to destroy us all. Your daughter would want a world that is rid of injustice."
"Your words Paletress..." I say with a sneer "are like snowflakes on a hot forge. Destiny has brought me here, overcoming obstacles that are unfathomable to you. Destiny will guide my hand this afternoon."
I stand up with renewed vigor and turn to leave the Chapel. Behind me Paletress stands and watches me go with a frown on her face.
As I step outside into the cold air I look about and see the Argent Crusade gathering for their march. Hundreds of souls from all the races of Azeroth have assembled in glorious order.
Then, I see them. Garrosh stands at the side of Thrall, nearby stands King Varian Wyrnn. Between them stands Trion Fordring. Around them are assembled their royal guards, and a woman I recognize from my days in Dalaran, the mage Jaina Proudmore.
All the threads of fate and balance have come to this point... If this is destiny then I can kill Garrosh and Varian at the same time. Everyone will see. The world will be shaken to its foundation.
"Tauren, don't do this" Paletress says from behind me.
Strength that I have never known surges through my body.
"Do not try to stop me human, or you will be next" I say to her over my shoulder.
"MEEKHA YOU WILL BE AVENGED THIS DAY!!!" I scream at the top of my lungs as I spring forward and shift into lion form.
All eyes turn to me as I sprint across the expanse towards my enemies. Everyone is so stunned that not even the royal guards react to my charge.
Suddenly, roots burst from the ground and catch me in their throny embrace. As I struggle to break their grasp a hammer hits me hard on the head. Then I am assaulted on all sides by Orc warriors. They seemed to be waiting for me!!
I roar with rage and frustration. However, instead of swords, axes and spears piercing my flesh, the mob surrounding me grabs me from all sides, holding me prone. I shift to bear form to escape, but they hold me fast. I was so close.
"What is the meaning of this!" Trion says as he walks up to the dog pile that holds me down.
From the assembled crowd steps a lithe Blood elf in the thick armor of a paladin.
"My Lord Fordring, please excuse our friend... he is not in his right mind and we have come to collect him before he hurts himself." the elf says with a smile.
That elf I immediately recognize as Squish. That vengeful bitch somehow knew of my plan and stopped me... but how did she know it was me?
Thrall and Garrosh walk over to survey the commotion.
"Lady Annora!! Why are you not getting your warband prepared for Icecrown Citadel" Garrosh exclaims. "Didn't you get my letter?"
"Of course I did Overlord, and we are ready as promised." Squish replies with a bow.
I continue in vain to struggle against my captors. Tears roll out of my eyes at the knowledge that righteous vengence has been robbed of me. Poor Meekha, there will be no rest for her soul.
Then I see her... a tall and graceful tauren women kneels before my face. It is Charibdys!! I should have known, she somehow found me, she lead them here to betray me!!
"Calm yourself" she says
My anger and frustration are too much to bear, but they give me new strength and I continue to struggle.
"Diogenes!!" Charibdys exclaims "calm yourself!!"
The utterance of my human name strikes through me like a nail. The shock forces me to lose control over my mastery of shapeshifting, I change back to tauren and my captors finally get a good hold on me.
Garrosh, Thrall and Trion turn back to their business of assembling the crusade. Meanwhile Squish joins Charibdys in front of my face.
"Ahh, here we have the mighty Calmfury. My what a cunning disguise you have. I would have never known it was you if you didn't reveal yourself like a moron." Squish says sarcastically.
"You vengeful elfin bitch!!" I spit on the ground. "How dare you stop me!! I was so close to getting vengence and stopping this entire war. You had no right!!"
"Oh but Calmfury, what in the world would you want to hurt our leaders for?"
"For my Meekha, he killed me daughter!!" I scream
"Calmfury!" Charibdys shouts in my face as she grabs me by my horn "Meekha is alive, Garrosh never killed her."
I am stunned. All my anger, all my rage, all my frustration melts away in an instant. Those words, I could never have imagined to be uttered.
"Alive... you are a liar!" I manage to say over my grief.
"No my dear Calmfury, she is alive" Squish says with a sort of twisted delight. "and if you help me in my assault on Icecrown Citadel, I will bring you to her."
Tears roll from my eyes like they never have before. I have no words to describe this feeling in my heart. It is like pain and relief all at the same time. I lay there in the snow for a long moment trying to come to grips.
"Vorack!" Squish exclaims to one of her warband. "I want you to fetch Darqyn, tell him we need a portal opened to Dalaran at once." the Forsaken scout nods as he turns to find the warbands mage.
Once again Squish turns to me. "So, what say you Calmfury, will you pledge yourelf to my cause?"
I look into her sneering elfin face for a moment. "It seems I have no choice." I manage to say with contempt.
"Good" Squish replies as she stands up. "and this time there will be no leaving. Your in my service for life."
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
pt 27 In search of...
How did this happen to me?!? Here I am a beautiful, intelligent and auspicious Blood Elf of noble birth, and I am surrounded by imbeciles. I can't get anything done because of the low grade morons I have in my employ.
It doen't matter how much I pay them. It doesn't matter that I have consistantly led them to success in whatever venture we have undertaken. They are like simplistic children who have to have their hands held in order to get anything done.
Now, their ineptitude has put my life in danger.
"Uh, Lady Squish, dere is someone ere to see you. Shees offerin money fer infermation" my orcish assistant says as he walks out on the balcony where I have made my office.
These days I have taken up residence at the Ledgermaine Lounge in Dalaran. I prefer to work on the balcony where I can see the crowds in the streets below. I'm hoping a public presence will help my effort to recruit mercenaries into my warband.
"You say this person wants information? About what, and how much is she offering?"
My blunt assistant stares blankly at me for a moment. Obviously he didn't bother to ask. Without saying a thing he turns and heads back into the inn.
Before me on my desk lies a letter delivered to me this afternoon:
I can't help but squirm a bit as I re-read his letter. My warband is strong, but not strong enough to assault the Citadel. We have had losses, and recruitment is slow. We need skilled people for Bloodlust but they are few and far between.
"Uh, boss. Shes a taureen and is lookin fer sumone. She says u myte know weer to look. Shes offern alot of gold" my assistant says as he returns once again.
"Alot you say?" I reply "Lemme guess, more than you have fingers?"
He nods meekly at me as he looks a the floor. Honestly, I didn't pick my assistant for his ability to do arithmatic.
"Very well, send her in" I finally say.
After a moment a Tauren woman walks out on the balcony. She is tall and looks strong, wearing plain, handmade leather clothing from head to hoof. However, in her eyes I can see a twinkle. Something is different about this Tauren.
"I am told your name is Squish and that you lead the warband called Bloodlust" she says directly to me.
I look her up and down for a moment, still perplexed about what is different about her.
"Your information is correct Tauren" I say coldly "What business do you have with me?"
The Tauren pauses for a moment and then replies "I understand that you have employed a Druid by the name of Calmfury. I am interested in finding him."
She tosses a small leather bag on my desk. Sounds to be about 15 coins.
I pick up the bag and toss it back to her. "Save your money, everyone knows that Calmfury was cut to pieces by Garrosh over two months ago."
She looks at me with that strange twinkle in her eyes again.
"You are mistaken Elf." she says to me with a sneer "he has returned and is wandering around in a disguise of sorts. You haven't had any new mercenaries in your employ, that fit the description of a Tauren Druid that no one knows, have you?" She tosses the coins back onto my desk.
In a disguise? Came back? Maybe Slasherjoe lied to me.
I do my best to hide my curiosity as I sit back down in my chair.
"A disguise huh? Hiding out from Garrosh perhaps?" I reply.
"I doubt that he is hiding out. More like he is trying to get close to get revenge on Garrosh for killing his Gruntling. Anyway, if you hear anything would you let me know? I will be in town for the next month" The Tauren says as she turns to leave.
"Wait!" I exclaim as I jump up from my chair and grab the Taurens arm. "Perhaps we can help each other more than you know... uh, what was your name?"
She turns cautiously towards me again. "My name is Charibdys"
"Please, sit down and talk with me for a moment Charibdys" I motion to a nearby chair. "Let me buy you a drink. Poklix!!"
My assistant comes running out on the balcony. "Yesh My Ladee?"
"Bring me and my Tauren friend a drink."
With a simpleton grin on his face he turns to carry out his task.
"Now, Charibdys" I say "I think we can help each other out. You see, we are preparing to assault Ice Crown Citadel and I need people of skill in my warband. I remember you from a conversation I once had with Calmfury. He said you are a powerful healer, is that correct?"
The Tauren looks at me with caution in her eyes before nodding.
"This is good, I need healers. Now, I am also in need of having Calmfury back in my assault group. Perhaps if my warband helps you find him, and you agree to convince him to help me, then we can work together. Also, I want you to come and heal my warriors during our assault."
The obviously dim witted Tauren, like there is any other kind, sits quietly for a moment and ponders my offer. Meanwhile, Poklix brings us a bottle of wine.
"Squish, I shall have to think about this for a bit. Can we talk more about this tommorrow?" she finally replies.
"Why of course. Please, let me get you a room here at the Ledgermain. It is the least I can do."
The Tauren nods before standing up to leave.
"Oh, one more thing Charibdys. Garrosh did not kill Calmfury's gruntling. No, one of my warriors saved her and hid her away. From what I understand she is living with her father in Orgrimmar."
Charibdys wheels about to face me again in with a startled look on her face.
"Perhaps we can use this to our advantage to get Calmfury to work for me again" I say with a grin. "Poklix!! Get Charibdys a room!"
My assistant grabs Charibdys by the arm and leads her back into the Inn. Clearly she is at a loss for words.
If this plan works out then I will have all the people I need to once again lead Bloodlust to glorious victory.
It doen't matter how much I pay them. It doesn't matter that I have consistantly led them to success in whatever venture we have undertaken. They are like simplistic children who have to have their hands held in order to get anything done.
Now, their ineptitude has put my life in danger.
"Uh, Lady Squish, dere is someone ere to see you. Shees offerin money fer infermation" my orcish assistant says as he walks out on the balcony where I have made my office.
These days I have taken up residence at the Ledgermaine Lounge in Dalaran. I prefer to work on the balcony where I can see the crowds in the streets below. I'm hoping a public presence will help my effort to recruit mercenaries into my warband.
"You say this person wants information? About what, and how much is she offering?"
My blunt assistant stares blankly at me for a moment. Obviously he didn't bother to ask. Without saying a thing he turns and heads back into the inn.
Before me on my desk lies a letter delivered to me this afternoon:
Lady Annora Sunstrider,
Loktar!! Our time has finally come! I received word last night from the Argent Crusade that the siege of Ice Crown Citadel has begun. You must rally your warband and prepare to assault the gates within a few days time. I want Bloodlust to help lead the charge! It is critical that we crush the Alliance before they reach the Frozen Throne. The glory of defeating Arthas must go to the Horde!
Saurfang is expecting you soon. You had better be prepared! Otherwise, I have a place for your head on the spires of Warsong Hold. Don't fail me elf!!
Also, I heard that you are calling yourself Squish. It is clear that you don't have a understanding of the orcish language, Squish in orcish means you are soft. Change your name you moron!
Garrosh Hellscream, Overlord of the Warsong offensive
I can't help but squirm a bit as I re-read his letter. My warband is strong, but not strong enough to assault the Citadel. We have had losses, and recruitment is slow. We need skilled people for Bloodlust but they are few and far between.
"Uh, boss. Shes a taureen and is lookin fer sumone. She says u myte know weer to look. Shes offern alot of gold" my assistant says as he returns once again.
"Alot you say?" I reply "Lemme guess, more than you have fingers?"
He nods meekly at me as he looks a the floor. Honestly, I didn't pick my assistant for his ability to do arithmatic.
"Very well, send her in" I finally say.
After a moment a Tauren woman walks out on the balcony. She is tall and looks strong, wearing plain, handmade leather clothing from head to hoof. However, in her eyes I can see a twinkle. Something is different about this Tauren.
"I am told your name is Squish and that you lead the warband called Bloodlust" she says directly to me.
I look her up and down for a moment, still perplexed about what is different about her.
"Your information is correct Tauren" I say coldly "What business do you have with me?"
The Tauren pauses for a moment and then replies "I understand that you have employed a Druid by the name of Calmfury. I am interested in finding him."
She tosses a small leather bag on my desk. Sounds to be about 15 coins.
I pick up the bag and toss it back to her. "Save your money, everyone knows that Calmfury was cut to pieces by Garrosh over two months ago."
She looks at me with that strange twinkle in her eyes again.
"You are mistaken Elf." she says to me with a sneer "he has returned and is wandering around in a disguise of sorts. You haven't had any new mercenaries in your employ, that fit the description of a Tauren Druid that no one knows, have you?" She tosses the coins back onto my desk.
In a disguise? Came back? Maybe Slasherjoe lied to me.
I do my best to hide my curiosity as I sit back down in my chair.
"A disguise huh? Hiding out from Garrosh perhaps?" I reply.
"I doubt that he is hiding out. More like he is trying to get close to get revenge on Garrosh for killing his Gruntling. Anyway, if you hear anything would you let me know? I will be in town for the next month" The Tauren says as she turns to leave.
"Wait!" I exclaim as I jump up from my chair and grab the Taurens arm. "Perhaps we can help each other more than you know... uh, what was your name?"
She turns cautiously towards me again. "My name is Charibdys"
"Please, sit down and talk with me for a moment Charibdys" I motion to a nearby chair. "Let me buy you a drink. Poklix!!"
My assistant comes running out on the balcony. "Yesh My Ladee?"
"Bring me and my Tauren friend a drink."
With a simpleton grin on his face he turns to carry out his task.
"Now, Charibdys" I say "I think we can help each other out. You see, we are preparing to assault Ice Crown Citadel and I need people of skill in my warband. I remember you from a conversation I once had with Calmfury. He said you are a powerful healer, is that correct?"
The Tauren looks at me with caution in her eyes before nodding.
"This is good, I need healers. Now, I am also in need of having Calmfury back in my assault group. Perhaps if my warband helps you find him, and you agree to convince him to help me, then we can work together. Also, I want you to come and heal my warriors during our assault."
The obviously dim witted Tauren, like there is any other kind, sits quietly for a moment and ponders my offer. Meanwhile, Poklix brings us a bottle of wine.
"Squish, I shall have to think about this for a bit. Can we talk more about this tommorrow?" she finally replies.
"Why of course. Please, let me get you a room here at the Ledgermain. It is the least I can do."
The Tauren nods before standing up to leave.
"Oh, one more thing Charibdys. Garrosh did not kill Calmfury's gruntling. No, one of my warriors saved her and hid her away. From what I understand she is living with her father in Orgrimmar."
Charibdys wheels about to face me again in with a startled look on her face.
"Perhaps we can use this to our advantage to get Calmfury to work for me again" I say with a grin. "Poklix!! Get Charibdys a room!"
My assistant grabs Charibdys by the arm and leads her back into the Inn. Clearly she is at a loss for words.
If this plan works out then I will have all the people I need to once again lead Bloodlust to glorious victory.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
pt 26 The reluctant assassin
A lone figure moves across the swinging rope bridges of Thunder Bluff. She is a Tauren woman wrapped tightly in furs against the blowing wind and rain that winter brings to these vaunting heights. Lightning flashes overhead, lending haste to the pace of the woman. Shortly afterwards, a crack of thunder booms across the land.
No one is foolish enough, save her, to brave the storm. All the other inhabitants of this foreboding height are safe and sound in their lodges.
As she nears the end of the bridge, she sees the sacred huts of the elders of Spirit rise. In the center lies the enormous lodge of Hamuul Runetotem, disciple of Malfurion, servant of Cenarius, and leader of the Tauren druids.
The ever present and merciless wind whips across the bluff as the lone figure nears the door of the grand lodge. A massive kodo hide has been stretched across the entrance, buttoned from the inside. It is clear that those inside are not expecting a guest this night.
"I need an audience with Elder Hamuul!!" she cries out over the howling wind.
Moments pass as the wind and rain batter the tauren. She holds fast to her skins and furs, trying her best to endure the storm.
"Hamuul Runetotem!! I desperately need to speak with you!!" she cries
Suddenly the kodo hide is pulled aside far enough for another tauren woman to stick her head out. She eyes the rain soaked figure for a moment before replying.
"Elder Hamuul is not seeing any visitors. He is gravely ill."
"Tell Hamuul that Charibdys is here to see him. I bring word of Calmfury!! I need the Elders help." the lone figure growls.
The woman at the door looks hard at the stranger. "I told you, the Elder is ill. He will not see anyone, anyway we don't want to involve ourselves in this Calmfury business anymore!!" she snaps back at the stranger.
"Bashana!!" a deep voice bellows from inside the lodge. "Let our guest come in"
The woman pulls her head back into the lodge with a scowl on her face, the kodo hide door is buttoned back up, and even over the howling wind an argument can be hear inside the lodge. The forlorn stranger left out in the cold shivers against the wet and stormy night. Then all at once, the argument in the lodge stops, and the kodo hide door is opened.
"Come inside" the deep voice commands from the dark and smokey confines of the lodge.
As the figure enters, she immediately feels the warmth and safety of the room. Huddled around a fire are about a half dozen figures, one of which is a elderly looking tauren male wrapped in a blanket and smoking a pipe.
"Come here child, let me see you closer." the Elder says.
The drenched tauren fumbles her way across the room and stands before the elder, then all at once she drops her furs, revealing a scantily clad and tattered looking woman.
Elder Hamuul squints for a moment, then tears well up in his eyes and a smile comes across his weary face as he recognizes the stranger. "By the Earthmother!! Charibdys it is you!!" he pauses for a moment, obviously astounded by what he sees. "Charibdys... but how?"
Charibdys sits heavily on the floor of the lodge as she begins to weep. "Elder Hamuul, I am so sorry." she cries out.
"Charibdys, what is wrong? Why have you come back?" Hamuul says, emotion clearly in his voice.
The tauren woman sobs for a moment before looking up at the venerable elder.
"Elder Hamuul, Ysera and the green dragonflight would not let me pass. They say that the war in the dream goes badly, and the nightmare threatens to envelope everything."
Everyone in the room gasps collectivly at the words of Charibdys.
"But, what about Calmfury?" Hamuul says in a low tone.
"Thats just it... Calmfury passed into another body, just as you thought. But, he didn't do it through the dream. You were right that he has some forbidden knowledge. The Night Elves said he is a necromancer of some sort. That he has a power that is akin to a banshee, to take over peoples bodies."
A horrified look comes across Hamuul's face. He doesn't respond, instead he just stares at Charibdys in disbelief.
"Master Hamuul, we have to find him. I need your help! He has to be stopped before it is too late. The Kaldorei he possesed when he left Moonglade manifested the Curse of the Worgen. The Sentinels had to kill him!! Right before my eyes!"
Bashana stands up from her seat by the fire. "Oh no!! you're not going to involve us in this mess again. My father has been sick ever since we came back from Moonglade. If the Night Elves want Calmfury dead then let them kill him. He is their problem now. That arrogant fool Fandral can deal with this!!"
"You don't understand!!" Charibdys continues "Before he died the Night Elf told us that Calmfury had possessed a new body. He was able to take over another Tauren!!"
The room goes deathly quiet, as everyone tries to come to grips with this new nightmare. The howling of the wind and the crackle of the fire bring a haunting aura to the smokey lodge.
"Charibdys" Elder Hamuul finally speaks "It is you and only you that must find him. I sense that there is some purpose to this horror that we don't yet understand. You seek him out and discover this purpose. I have known Calmfury, I have looked him in the eyes. My heart tells me that there is good in him and that the Night Elves are wrong. Find him Charibdys, talk to him. If I am wrong, then you must kill him."
"Father no!!" Bashana cries out
With a shocked look on her face, Charibdys does what she has always done. "Yes Elder Hamuul, I will do as you ask."
The weary Elder smiles at her. "Charibdys, please make yourself comfortable here for the night. Have some kodo stew and regain your strength. Tommorrow we will talk more about this."
"Yes Master" she says as a bowl of hot food is passed to her. As she begins to eat, a bit of a smile comes across her face. "I think I have a hunch where I can find him".
No one is foolish enough, save her, to brave the storm. All the other inhabitants of this foreboding height are safe and sound in their lodges.
As she nears the end of the bridge, she sees the sacred huts of the elders of Spirit rise. In the center lies the enormous lodge of Hamuul Runetotem, disciple of Malfurion, servant of Cenarius, and leader of the Tauren druids.
The ever present and merciless wind whips across the bluff as the lone figure nears the door of the grand lodge. A massive kodo hide has been stretched across the entrance, buttoned from the inside. It is clear that those inside are not expecting a guest this night.
"I need an audience with Elder Hamuul!!" she cries out over the howling wind.
Moments pass as the wind and rain batter the tauren. She holds fast to her skins and furs, trying her best to endure the storm.
"Hamuul Runetotem!! I desperately need to speak with you!!" she cries
Suddenly the kodo hide is pulled aside far enough for another tauren woman to stick her head out. She eyes the rain soaked figure for a moment before replying.
"Elder Hamuul is not seeing any visitors. He is gravely ill."
"Tell Hamuul that Charibdys is here to see him. I bring word of Calmfury!! I need the Elders help." the lone figure growls.
The woman at the door looks hard at the stranger. "I told you, the Elder is ill. He will not see anyone, anyway we don't want to involve ourselves in this Calmfury business anymore!!" she snaps back at the stranger.
"Bashana!!" a deep voice bellows from inside the lodge. "Let our guest come in"
The woman pulls her head back into the lodge with a scowl on her face, the kodo hide door is buttoned back up, and even over the howling wind an argument can be hear inside the lodge. The forlorn stranger left out in the cold shivers against the wet and stormy night. Then all at once, the argument in the lodge stops, and the kodo hide door is opened.
"Come inside" the deep voice commands from the dark and smokey confines of the lodge.
As the figure enters, she immediately feels the warmth and safety of the room. Huddled around a fire are about a half dozen figures, one of which is a elderly looking tauren male wrapped in a blanket and smoking a pipe.
"Come here child, let me see you closer." the Elder says.
The drenched tauren fumbles her way across the room and stands before the elder, then all at once she drops her furs, revealing a scantily clad and tattered looking woman.
Elder Hamuul squints for a moment, then tears well up in his eyes and a smile comes across his weary face as he recognizes the stranger. "By the Earthmother!! Charibdys it is you!!" he pauses for a moment, obviously astounded by what he sees. "Charibdys... but how?"
Charibdys sits heavily on the floor of the lodge as she begins to weep. "Elder Hamuul, I am so sorry." she cries out.
"Charibdys, what is wrong? Why have you come back?" Hamuul says, emotion clearly in his voice.
The tauren woman sobs for a moment before looking up at the venerable elder.
"Elder Hamuul, Ysera and the green dragonflight would not let me pass. They say that the war in the dream goes badly, and the nightmare threatens to envelope everything."
Everyone in the room gasps collectivly at the words of Charibdys.
"But, what about Calmfury?" Hamuul says in a low tone.
"Thats just it... Calmfury passed into another body, just as you thought. But, he didn't do it through the dream. You were right that he has some forbidden knowledge. The Night Elves said he is a necromancer of some sort. That he has a power that is akin to a banshee, to take over peoples bodies."
A horrified look comes across Hamuul's face. He doesn't respond, instead he just stares at Charibdys in disbelief.
"Master Hamuul, we have to find him. I need your help! He has to be stopped before it is too late. The Kaldorei he possesed when he left Moonglade manifested the Curse of the Worgen. The Sentinels had to kill him!! Right before my eyes!"
Bashana stands up from her seat by the fire. "Oh no!! you're not going to involve us in this mess again. My father has been sick ever since we came back from Moonglade. If the Night Elves want Calmfury dead then let them kill him. He is their problem now. That arrogant fool Fandral can deal with this!!"
"You don't understand!!" Charibdys continues "Before he died the Night Elf told us that Calmfury had possessed a new body. He was able to take over another Tauren!!"
The room goes deathly quiet, as everyone tries to come to grips with this new nightmare. The howling of the wind and the crackle of the fire bring a haunting aura to the smokey lodge.
"Charibdys" Elder Hamuul finally speaks "It is you and only you that must find him. I sense that there is some purpose to this horror that we don't yet understand. You seek him out and discover this purpose. I have known Calmfury, I have looked him in the eyes. My heart tells me that there is good in him and that the Night Elves are wrong. Find him Charibdys, talk to him. If I am wrong, then you must kill him."
"Father no!!" Bashana cries out
With a shocked look on her face, Charibdys does what she has always done. "Yes Elder Hamuul, I will do as you ask."
The weary Elder smiles at her. "Charibdys, please make yourself comfortable here for the night. Have some kodo stew and regain your strength. Tommorrow we will talk more about this."
"Yes Master" she says as a bowl of hot food is passed to her. As she begins to eat, a bit of a smile comes across her face. "I think I have a hunch where I can find him".
Monday, December 14, 2009
pt 25 Betrayed by pride
It's been over a thousand years since I last walked the fields, forests and mountains of Kalimdor. So much of the world has changed. Demons, orcs and other strange foreigners have come to our lands. The only thing that has remained roughly the same are my people the Night Elves.
"Ah, the venerable and wise Sylios. I am delighted to see you once again." the graceful and beautiful Priestess Tyrande Whisperwind says to me as she enters the hall where I am staying.
From what I understand she is leading the Kaldorei while Malfurion continues to wage war in the Emerald Dream. The lovely priestess of Elune sits at my table and takes some of the fruit that had been brought to me.
I stand and bow gracefully to her, in the fashion of the old ways. I wonder if she remembers the formal greeting of our forefathers.
"Sylios, I know you are very tired from your long journey, but is there any word from Malfurion?"
I feel a bit a anger and disgust as I realize that she does not remember our ways, though I am careful not to show it. As I sit down I can't help but shift uncomfortably for a moment in my chair, unsure of how to answer her.
"Well Tyrande, the war in the dream is complicated. Ysera and the Green Dragons are still searching for Malfurion as they battle the growing nightmare. But, we still don't know exactly where he is or what is causing the nightmare." my cautious explanation is interrupted by a sentinel entering the room. "From what we can gather my lady, Malfurion is battling the nightmare as well, but at the side of Cenarius himself."
The sentinel speaks "Mistress Tyrande, the Tauren druid has been found. Shall we bring it here?"
Tyrande looks displeased. "Sentinel Avaria, you will not refer to the Tauren as "it". Despite what Fandral says the Tauren are sentient creatures and worthy of respect. Even if they fight for the Horde." Tyrande sighs. "Yes, please bring the Tauren to me."
The sentinel bows gracefully as she ducks back out of the room.
"So, Sylios tell me about your tribulations in Winterspring." Tyrande says as she bites into a fresh apple.
I can't help but fidget nervously. Honestly, I don't know where to start or what to say.
"Well, Mistress" I reply "It's all so uneventful and trivial. I'm afraid my story would only bore you to tears."
Tyrande's beautiful face suddenly becomes hard. "Try me... In particular I would like to know how you were able rid yourself of the one called Calmfury."
Her hard words and her forceful tone make me angry. She may be the leader of our people but I am an elder, an ancient of the old times when the Kaldorei were respectful of one another regardless of their station, a time before these foreigners came along. Besides, I said nothing about Calmfury, how does she know?!? Despite my rage, I try hard not to grimace at her.
"My Lady, pardon me but I'm not sure what your talking about. Didn't your people tell you that I got lost and ended up in Winterspring by mistake? Things have changed alot in the long years I have been asleep" I say cautiously.
Tyrande suddenly softens her glare and sits back. A soft, strange light radiates off of her as she looks down at her half eaten apple.
"Elder Sylios, let me be honest with you." she says softly, still looking at her apple. "We are trying to track what we believe is a necromancer of untold power. He has used some sort of unnatural abiliy to possess the body of several people, including you. We know that he left Moonglade in your body and went to Winterspring, in fact we were searching hard for you. Anyway, this necromancer carries a disease called the Curse of the Worgen. If it is allowed to manifest, he may be infectious to others. We need to find him and kill him before that occurs."
It is all clear to me now. Somehow he stole my body and left me in limbo for weeks on end. Then the young tauren, Redtalon, he must have been a previous victim. My fury rises in me like a hot fountain. This wretched beast must be found and killed before he does this to anyone else... Then I remember, the tauren warrior.
Suddenly, the doors to the hall come open and a group of sentinels enter, carrying a filthy tauren woman. She is covered in tattered rages and barely seems cognisant. I recognize her stupor as that of the afteraffects of waking from the Emerald Dream.
Behind the sentinels walks an arrogant looking Night Elf with a permenant scowl on his face. I recognize him immmediately as Fandrel Staghelm, an old friend from times long past. We fought in Silithus together in the war of the shifting sands. A smile creeps across my face as I rise to greet him.
"Fandral, it is a pleasure to see you once again." I say politely as I bow to him in the traditional fashion
With a motion he interrupts me. "Sylios, save the pleasantries for later, we have important business to attend to. What happened to Calmfury?!" His dismissive tone makes me angry, this time I do nothing to hide my displeasure as my rage continues to grow.
"They would not let me through!!" the tauren suddenly screams. Her dirty face twisitng into a mask of frustration and despair. "Ysera refused to guide me through the dream. She said the nightmare engulfs all corners... Malfurion is lost to us!"
Fandral grabs the tauren by her horn and looks her square in the face. "You wretch!! If you couldn't go through how did Calmfury do it?!"
"Fandral!!" Tyrande yells. "Let me handle this, do not treat her is such a manner!!" she grabs him forcibly on the shoulder.
No one notices me as I stumble to the corner of the room. My body feels hot and my chest feels tight. Something is wrong with me.
"Calmfury did not use the dream..." the tauren says with a stammer. "he never used the dream, he has some sort of power, something I don't understand."
The occupants of the room jump in startlement as I scream out in primal fury. All eyes turn to me as I feel my bones begin to crack and my muscles start to stretch into unnatural shapes.
Sudden recognition sweeps across Fandral face as he yells. "It is too late!! He has the curse!! Kill him before it spreads to us!!"
Everyone in the room stands in horror as they witness my hideous transformation. Tears run down my cheeks as I feel an overpowering urge to tear everyone apart. It's like a powerful beast, much stronger than Calmfury ever was, taking me over and dominating my mind. I fall to my knees as my last bit off willpower trys to stave off the demon inside me.
"Fandral!!" I scream in a glutteral and sickening cry "Calmfury has possessed a Tauren.. left him in Winterspr....."
Everything fades to black as I watch the sentinels descend on me with their blades in hand.
"Ah, the venerable and wise Sylios. I am delighted to see you once again." the graceful and beautiful Priestess Tyrande Whisperwind says to me as she enters the hall where I am staying.
From what I understand she is leading the Kaldorei while Malfurion continues to wage war in the Emerald Dream. The lovely priestess of Elune sits at my table and takes some of the fruit that had been brought to me.
I stand and bow gracefully to her, in the fashion of the old ways. I wonder if she remembers the formal greeting of our forefathers.
"Sylios, I know you are very tired from your long journey, but is there any word from Malfurion?"
I feel a bit a anger and disgust as I realize that she does not remember our ways, though I am careful not to show it. As I sit down I can't help but shift uncomfortably for a moment in my chair, unsure of how to answer her.
"Well Tyrande, the war in the dream is complicated. Ysera and the Green Dragons are still searching for Malfurion as they battle the growing nightmare. But, we still don't know exactly where he is or what is causing the nightmare." my cautious explanation is interrupted by a sentinel entering the room. "From what we can gather my lady, Malfurion is battling the nightmare as well, but at the side of Cenarius himself."
The sentinel speaks "Mistress Tyrande, the Tauren druid has been found. Shall we bring it here?"
Tyrande looks displeased. "Sentinel Avaria, you will not refer to the Tauren as "it". Despite what Fandral says the Tauren are sentient creatures and worthy of respect. Even if they fight for the Horde." Tyrande sighs. "Yes, please bring the Tauren to me."
The sentinel bows gracefully as she ducks back out of the room.
"So, Sylios tell me about your tribulations in Winterspring." Tyrande says as she bites into a fresh apple.
I can't help but fidget nervously. Honestly, I don't know where to start or what to say.
"Well, Mistress" I reply "It's all so uneventful and trivial. I'm afraid my story would only bore you to tears."
Tyrande's beautiful face suddenly becomes hard. "Try me... In particular I would like to know how you were able rid yourself of the one called Calmfury."
Her hard words and her forceful tone make me angry. She may be the leader of our people but I am an elder, an ancient of the old times when the Kaldorei were respectful of one another regardless of their station, a time before these foreigners came along. Besides, I said nothing about Calmfury, how does she know?!? Despite my rage, I try hard not to grimace at her.
"My Lady, pardon me but I'm not sure what your talking about. Didn't your people tell you that I got lost and ended up in Winterspring by mistake? Things have changed alot in the long years I have been asleep" I say cautiously.
Tyrande suddenly softens her glare and sits back. A soft, strange light radiates off of her as she looks down at her half eaten apple.
"Elder Sylios, let me be honest with you." she says softly, still looking at her apple. "We are trying to track what we believe is a necromancer of untold power. He has used some sort of unnatural abiliy to possess the body of several people, including you. We know that he left Moonglade in your body and went to Winterspring, in fact we were searching hard for you. Anyway, this necromancer carries a disease called the Curse of the Worgen. If it is allowed to manifest, he may be infectious to others. We need to find him and kill him before that occurs."
It is all clear to me now. Somehow he stole my body and left me in limbo for weeks on end. Then the young tauren, Redtalon, he must have been a previous victim. My fury rises in me like a hot fountain. This wretched beast must be found and killed before he does this to anyone else... Then I remember, the tauren warrior.
Suddenly, the doors to the hall come open and a group of sentinels enter, carrying a filthy tauren woman. She is covered in tattered rages and barely seems cognisant. I recognize her stupor as that of the afteraffects of waking from the Emerald Dream.
Behind the sentinels walks an arrogant looking Night Elf with a permenant scowl on his face. I recognize him immmediately as Fandrel Staghelm, an old friend from times long past. We fought in Silithus together in the war of the shifting sands. A smile creeps across my face as I rise to greet him.
"Fandral, it is a pleasure to see you once again." I say politely as I bow to him in the traditional fashion
With a motion he interrupts me. "Sylios, save the pleasantries for later, we have important business to attend to. What happened to Calmfury?!" His dismissive tone makes me angry, this time I do nothing to hide my displeasure as my rage continues to grow.
"They would not let me through!!" the tauren suddenly screams. Her dirty face twisitng into a mask of frustration and despair. "Ysera refused to guide me through the dream. She said the nightmare engulfs all corners... Malfurion is lost to us!"
Fandral grabs the tauren by her horn and looks her square in the face. "You wretch!! If you couldn't go through how did Calmfury do it?!"
"Fandral!!" Tyrande yells. "Let me handle this, do not treat her is such a manner!!" she grabs him forcibly on the shoulder.
No one notices me as I stumble to the corner of the room. My body feels hot and my chest feels tight. Something is wrong with me.
"Calmfury did not use the dream..." the tauren says with a stammer. "he never used the dream, he has some sort of power, something I don't understand."
The occupants of the room jump in startlement as I scream out in primal fury. All eyes turn to me as I feel my bones begin to crack and my muscles start to stretch into unnatural shapes.
Sudden recognition sweeps across Fandral face as he yells. "It is too late!! He has the curse!! Kill him before it spreads to us!!"
Everyone in the room stands in horror as they witness my hideous transformation. Tears run down my cheeks as I feel an overpowering urge to tear everyone apart. It's like a powerful beast, much stronger than Calmfury ever was, taking me over and dominating my mind. I fall to my knees as my last bit off willpower trys to stave off the demon inside me.
"Fandral!!" I scream in a glutteral and sickening cry "Calmfury has possessed a Tauren.. left him in Winterspr....."
Everything fades to black as I watch the sentinels descend on me with their blades in hand.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
pt 24 The forgotten dream
Freedom... I had forgotten what it was like. It seems that life has dealt me a bittersweet hand in letting me remember.
The dry wind blows gently across the plains as I run. It is winter in the Barrens, but there is still so much life here.
Life... something so precious, so unique, it is mine, and with it I am free. Mostly, because I know what is on the other side.
It is life that I pondered these past several weeks, after leaving the frozen confines of Winterspring. I never want to go back to that place. I have considered my burning hatred of the beast calling himself Garrosh Hellscream. When I thought that I'd rather forget about him and live my life, I remembered poor Meekha, and the need for vengence swelled in me again.
Then of course, I thought about Him, the beast that pursues me, the curse that lays claim to my soul. It finally occured to me how he found me so quickly. At first I thought the vicinity of the warlock had acted like a beacon in the twisting nether for the beast to find me. Then I remembered my studies as a fledgeing mage in Dalaran.
It seemed like an age ago, in truth it was. I was a young boy from a noble house in the kingdom of Gilneas. When I was about 10 years old, I was selected by the Kirin Tor for training as a mage. I was quickly assigned to my Master, his name was Kel'Thuzad. I remember him as a cruel man, not a teacher at all. It was a sad fate that I was assigned to him, but one that I embraced. I was a good and loyal student. I remember my Master working on some sort of secret project. He foolishly used me to acquire some of the materials he needed for what I know now was his forbidden work in necromancy. I will admit that sometimes while he slept I would read his texts. Here I was nothing but a boy, barely a mastery of the most simple of cantrips, and I was reading about demonic emanations, corpse reanimation and necromantic possesion. Even then I knew it was dirty, I felt unclean and tainted.
So, it came as a relief to me in my second year as an apprentice that my master was discredited and thrown out of the order. I was left in limbo until the head of the Kirin Tor, Archmage Antonidas assigned me to a new master, Archmage Arugal. I was overjoyed because Master Arugal was also from Gilneas. He was kind and fatherly. He taught me the craft with untold patience. Then, the Scourge came. After the razing of Dalaran I fled with my Master to Shadowfang Keep. He worked tirelessly, day and night to find a way to protect Gilneas from the Scourge. Finally he was able to summon an army to fight for us from beyond the nether, they were the wretched Worgen. It worked for a while, until they turned on us. I think it was sometime afterwards that I acquired the curse.
Anway, it occured to me that the winterfall firewater that I was taking to supress Sylios's control over his own body, was what likely helped manifest the worgen curse. I believe that the Winterfall Furbolg are under some sort of demonic influence, and the potion they carry and consume helps to manifest that influence. Perhaps someday I will go back to help them overcome this demonic slavery.
But, today I will simply run. Not to get away from anything, but to feel life. To feel my lungs draw air, to feel my heart pound in my chest. I will enjoy this time because soon I will give it all up. I know that it is my fate to head back to Northrend, to find Garrosh and to seek my vengence against him. I know deep down inside that I will likely fail, but I cannot suffer evil to live and flourish.
I choose this path for Meekha's sake. Her innocent blood screams for vengence, and I will see that she has it, or I will die trying.
The dry wind blows gently across the plains as I run. It is winter in the Barrens, but there is still so much life here.
Life... something so precious, so unique, it is mine, and with it I am free. Mostly, because I know what is on the other side.
It is life that I pondered these past several weeks, after leaving the frozen confines of Winterspring. I never want to go back to that place. I have considered my burning hatred of the beast calling himself Garrosh Hellscream. When I thought that I'd rather forget about him and live my life, I remembered poor Meekha, and the need for vengence swelled in me again.
Then of course, I thought about Him, the beast that pursues me, the curse that lays claim to my soul. It finally occured to me how he found me so quickly. At first I thought the vicinity of the warlock had acted like a beacon in the twisting nether for the beast to find me. Then I remembered my studies as a fledgeing mage in Dalaran.
It seemed like an age ago, in truth it was. I was a young boy from a noble house in the kingdom of Gilneas. When I was about 10 years old, I was selected by the Kirin Tor for training as a mage. I was quickly assigned to my Master, his name was Kel'Thuzad. I remember him as a cruel man, not a teacher at all. It was a sad fate that I was assigned to him, but one that I embraced. I was a good and loyal student. I remember my Master working on some sort of secret project. He foolishly used me to acquire some of the materials he needed for what I know now was his forbidden work in necromancy. I will admit that sometimes while he slept I would read his texts. Here I was nothing but a boy, barely a mastery of the most simple of cantrips, and I was reading about demonic emanations, corpse reanimation and necromantic possesion. Even then I knew it was dirty, I felt unclean and tainted.
So, it came as a relief to me in my second year as an apprentice that my master was discredited and thrown out of the order. I was left in limbo until the head of the Kirin Tor, Archmage Antonidas assigned me to a new master, Archmage Arugal. I was overjoyed because Master Arugal was also from Gilneas. He was kind and fatherly. He taught me the craft with untold patience. Then, the Scourge came. After the razing of Dalaran I fled with my Master to Shadowfang Keep. He worked tirelessly, day and night to find a way to protect Gilneas from the Scourge. Finally he was able to summon an army to fight for us from beyond the nether, they were the wretched Worgen. It worked for a while, until they turned on us. I think it was sometime afterwards that I acquired the curse.
Anway, it occured to me that the winterfall firewater that I was taking to supress Sylios's control over his own body, was what likely helped manifest the worgen curse. I believe that the Winterfall Furbolg are under some sort of demonic influence, and the potion they carry and consume helps to manifest that influence. Perhaps someday I will go back to help them overcome this demonic slavery.
But, today I will simply run. Not to get away from anything, but to feel life. To feel my lungs draw air, to feel my heart pound in my chest. I will enjoy this time because soon I will give it all up. I know that it is my fate to head back to Northrend, to find Garrosh and to seek my vengence against him. I know deep down inside that I will likely fail, but I cannot suffer evil to live and flourish.
I choose this path for Meekha's sake. Her innocent blood screams for vengence, and I will see that she has it, or I will die trying.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
pt 23 And then there was one
Earlier I saw him, he was something like a withered corpse riding a demonic steed, tearing across the icy fields after his quarry. The driving snow makes it hard to see anything, I sort of wish I could track by scent again. If it wasn't for the coming blizzard he would be easy to track, the hoofs of his mount burn with an unholy fire, leaving large slushy holes in the snow. But, I will make due despite the fact that he's steadily been moving away from me as I pursue him in my savannah cat form. Hopefully this chase will end soon before I am utterly spent.
Normally, I wouldn't care if some demonic warlock crossed my path. But, this one was chasing a friend I made a few weeks back, a Draenei huntress who had "helped" me out of the wilderness. I remembered what she said about a group calling itself the horde skinning people alive. Perhaps this warlock is part of this group.
Suddenly, we drop down into a valley, and I see my hunter friend making a stand with her wolf. She has taken up a defensive position on the ridge across from us behind a fallen tree. The warlock brings his steed to a halt and dismounts in the snowy valley, as if he is accepting the hunters challenge. Then with a gesture, he summons a horrific demon. The stench of brimstone permeates the air as the massive beast materializes before our eyes. It then brandishes a wicked axe at the hunter above them. I shift to lion form and take cover, ready to pounce on the unsuspecting warlock.
Unmoved by the fel magic of the warlock, the huntress takes careful aim and shoots her rifle. The crack of the shot rings loud over the howling of the oncoming blizzard. Her aim is true and the bullet rips into the chest of the warlock, knocking him down in the snow. Then, the demon howls and charges up the hill towards the huntress.
As the demon leaps through the air at his prey, a magical hammer flies out from behind the log impacting hard against the beasts head, stopping it in it's tracks. From behind the log stands a burly Draenei paladin. Apparently, the hunter had a plan, and this is a trap for the warlock.
Another shot rings out and a bullet rips into the prone form of the warlock. The paladin then leaps over the log and falls upon the demon, striking him with a glowing sword. I stay in hiding, just observing the ongoing battle.
Suddenly, the warlock rises from the snow, seemingly unphased by the huntresses deadly shots. He raises his hands and a horrific, screech rips through the frozen wind. I feel terror raise in my heart, my limbs go weak, and I cannot help but break from cover and run. It is then, in my irrational terror, that He takes over.
My bones crack, my guts seize up in my body, and I feel a horrific change taking hold of me. This isn't like the fluid transformation I know as a druid, instead this is painful and unnatural. I barf up my lunch, mixed with blood. I feel a primal howl rise in my throat as my body grows and expands. I can feel him in my mind... No, its not Redtalon, or Sylios. This is someone else, someone who has been chasing me. Now, somehow He has found me!!
As the beast takes full control, we look up and see what was meant to be a reinforcement for the warlock. He is a hulking tauren warrior riding a black worg. Somehow in the chase I missed him falling behind. He seemed to arrive just in time to see my hideous transformation, and instead of helping his undead friend, he watched me in horror.
The beast leaps onto the warrior, ripping and tearing him with his vicious claws. I suddenly feel a tinge of sympathy for Sylios and Redtalon, I am a helpless observer looking through eyes that are not mine. The beast is in sole control.
The warrior recovers from the assault and knocks us back into the snow. He then slides off his worg and brandishes a massive axe. Once again the beast leaps through the air like a vicious madman and begins tearing and scratching at the warrior's armor. The tauren swings his axe in a wide arc through the air, missing us by a hair.
With ruthless precision, my worgen master leaps past the warrior and quickly turns, then with a powerful swipe he slashes the tauren across the back of his legs, where he has no armor. The warrior falls face down as his blood spatters across the snow. Then, the worgen leaps in his back, ripping at his neck. Suddenly, the tauren's helmet comes off in the struggle and the beast sinks his fangs into his neck. Blood flows in rivers as the worgen drinks greedily. The tauren collapses in defeat.
His rage sated with murder, the beast falls into a slumber. Slowly, my body begins to painfully revert. I regain control of myself once again.
"Calmfury, you animal!! What have you done!!" Redtalon exclaims. I do not know how long he was standing there watching. But, I can now sense both the ghostly tauren, and that whiny night elf standing over me.
With my limbs weak and shaky, I slowly rise from atop the dead warriors body.
"He was one of us!! He was a Tauren!! Why did you kill him?!?" Redtalon screams at me.
I sit in a daze for a moment unsure of what has happened. I remember the beast clearly, but I don't know how he found me.
"Calmfury!" Sylios says "your friends are coming."
I look up to see the huntress and her friends approaching me. It seems that they easily finished off the warlock, and saw my fight with the warrior.
Sylio's eyes widen and he kneels down to look me in the eyes. "Calmfury, now is your chance!! This tauren, his body is whole. You can take it for yourself and leave me!"
I look at Sylios, confused by what he is saying.
"You imbecile!! You don't have to possess me any longer! You can leave and take him!"
"No!" Redtalon cries "You will not carry this curse to my people. You will not subject anyone else to this hell you demon!!"
I feel the rage well up in me at his words, it brings new life to my limbs. It is then that I realize that because the beast has found me again, I will be wracked with his curse, subject to his fits of anger, a slave to his murderous rampages. I would rather be dead. Somehow, by sheer will alone, I give up the ghost. It's kind of like dropping a heavy bag after a long voyage.
Sylios and Redtalon look at me in amazement. "Calmfury" Sylios says "your a human!!" I look down at my ghost, my true form, I finally remember who I am. I remember the Horde, I remember Dalaran, I remember Garrosh, I remember poor Meekah, I can even remember my mother. It all becomes clear, like clouds parting before the sun.
"My name is Diogenes" I say quietly
Without further hesitation, Sylios returns to his body. I stand there for a moment as a ghost. It is an existence that is devoid of pleasure or pain. It is strangely cold, and lonely. I look down at the body of the tauren and make my choice.
"Calmfury no!!" Redtalon screams.
"Well, if it isn't my retarded druid friend" the Draenae huntress says "You put yourself in danger for no good reason, we had it under control."
Sylios opens his eyes and smiles for the first time in a thousand years.
"Greetings Druid" the noble Draenei paladin says with a flourish "My name is Heimdall, and these are my companions Sibiy the hunter, and Lilac the warlock." he gestures to the huntress and a sinister looking gnome female standing nearby. "You fight well, if your looking for employment we may be in need of your services."
Sylios sits up and looks at the trio.
"Sibiy tells me that your name is Calmfury" Heimdall says with a smile.
Sylios begins to laughs out loud, his boisterous laughter and the tears rolling out his eyes are enough to insult his would be friends.
"I am sorry my friends, please forgive my irreverence." Sylios manages to say in kaldorai "My name is Sylios and I would be most grateful if you would lead me out of this frozen hell."
Heimdall and Sibiy look confused for a moment.
"See Heimdall, I told you he was an idiot, he doesn't even speak common." Sibiy says with a sneer.
Lilac pipes up in her little voice. "He is speaking an old dialect of Darnassian. He says his name is Sylios and he wants to leave with us."
As the blizzard grows in intensity, the four figures begin to make their way to the safety of shelter. Behind them lie the defeated remains of the Horde in Winterspring. As they disappear into the blowing storm, one figure rises from the snow. Turning sharply, the bloody tauren warrior shifts into lion form and disappears into the wilderness. No doubt he is bound for the cities of the Horde, filled with a new purpose.
Normally, I wouldn't care if some demonic warlock crossed my path. But, this one was chasing a friend I made a few weeks back, a Draenei huntress who had "helped" me out of the wilderness. I remembered what she said about a group calling itself the horde skinning people alive. Perhaps this warlock is part of this group.
Suddenly, we drop down into a valley, and I see my hunter friend making a stand with her wolf. She has taken up a defensive position on the ridge across from us behind a fallen tree. The warlock brings his steed to a halt and dismounts in the snowy valley, as if he is accepting the hunters challenge. Then with a gesture, he summons a horrific demon. The stench of brimstone permeates the air as the massive beast materializes before our eyes. It then brandishes a wicked axe at the hunter above them. I shift to lion form and take cover, ready to pounce on the unsuspecting warlock.
Unmoved by the fel magic of the warlock, the huntress takes careful aim and shoots her rifle. The crack of the shot rings loud over the howling of the oncoming blizzard. Her aim is true and the bullet rips into the chest of the warlock, knocking him down in the snow. Then, the demon howls and charges up the hill towards the huntress.
As the demon leaps through the air at his prey, a magical hammer flies out from behind the log impacting hard against the beasts head, stopping it in it's tracks. From behind the log stands a burly Draenei paladin. Apparently, the hunter had a plan, and this is a trap for the warlock.
Another shot rings out and a bullet rips into the prone form of the warlock. The paladin then leaps over the log and falls upon the demon, striking him with a glowing sword. I stay in hiding, just observing the ongoing battle.
Suddenly, the warlock rises from the snow, seemingly unphased by the huntresses deadly shots. He raises his hands and a horrific, screech rips through the frozen wind. I feel terror raise in my heart, my limbs go weak, and I cannot help but break from cover and run. It is then, in my irrational terror, that He takes over.
My bones crack, my guts seize up in my body, and I feel a horrific change taking hold of me. This isn't like the fluid transformation I know as a druid, instead this is painful and unnatural. I barf up my lunch, mixed with blood. I feel a primal howl rise in my throat as my body grows and expands. I can feel him in my mind... No, its not Redtalon, or Sylios. This is someone else, someone who has been chasing me. Now, somehow He has found me!!
As the beast takes full control, we look up and see what was meant to be a reinforcement for the warlock. He is a hulking tauren warrior riding a black worg. Somehow in the chase I missed him falling behind. He seemed to arrive just in time to see my hideous transformation, and instead of helping his undead friend, he watched me in horror.
The beast leaps onto the warrior, ripping and tearing him with his vicious claws. I suddenly feel a tinge of sympathy for Sylios and Redtalon, I am a helpless observer looking through eyes that are not mine. The beast is in sole control.
The warrior recovers from the assault and knocks us back into the snow. He then slides off his worg and brandishes a massive axe. Once again the beast leaps through the air like a vicious madman and begins tearing and scratching at the warrior's armor. The tauren swings his axe in a wide arc through the air, missing us by a hair.
With ruthless precision, my worgen master leaps past the warrior and quickly turns, then with a powerful swipe he slashes the tauren across the back of his legs, where he has no armor. The warrior falls face down as his blood spatters across the snow. Then, the worgen leaps in his back, ripping at his neck. Suddenly, the tauren's helmet comes off in the struggle and the beast sinks his fangs into his neck. Blood flows in rivers as the worgen drinks greedily. The tauren collapses in defeat.
His rage sated with murder, the beast falls into a slumber. Slowly, my body begins to painfully revert. I regain control of myself once again.
"Calmfury, you animal!! What have you done!!" Redtalon exclaims. I do not know how long he was standing there watching. But, I can now sense both the ghostly tauren, and that whiny night elf standing over me.
With my limbs weak and shaky, I slowly rise from atop the dead warriors body.
"He was one of us!! He was a Tauren!! Why did you kill him?!?" Redtalon screams at me.
I sit in a daze for a moment unsure of what has happened. I remember the beast clearly, but I don't know how he found me.
"Calmfury!" Sylios says "your friends are coming."
I look up to see the huntress and her friends approaching me. It seems that they easily finished off the warlock, and saw my fight with the warrior.
Sylio's eyes widen and he kneels down to look me in the eyes. "Calmfury, now is your chance!! This tauren, his body is whole. You can take it for yourself and leave me!"
I look at Sylios, confused by what he is saying.
"You imbecile!! You don't have to possess me any longer! You can leave and take him!"
"No!" Redtalon cries "You will not carry this curse to my people. You will not subject anyone else to this hell you demon!!"
I feel the rage well up in me at his words, it brings new life to my limbs. It is then that I realize that because the beast has found me again, I will be wracked with his curse, subject to his fits of anger, a slave to his murderous rampages. I would rather be dead. Somehow, by sheer will alone, I give up the ghost. It's kind of like dropping a heavy bag after a long voyage.
Sylios and Redtalon look at me in amazement. "Calmfury" Sylios says "your a human!!" I look down at my ghost, my true form, I finally remember who I am. I remember the Horde, I remember Dalaran, I remember Garrosh, I remember poor Meekah, I can even remember my mother. It all becomes clear, like clouds parting before the sun.
"My name is Diogenes" I say quietly
Without further hesitation, Sylios returns to his body. I stand there for a moment as a ghost. It is an existence that is devoid of pleasure or pain. It is strangely cold, and lonely. I look down at the body of the tauren and make my choice.
"Calmfury no!!" Redtalon screams.
"Well, if it isn't my retarded druid friend" the Draenae huntress says "You put yourself in danger for no good reason, we had it under control."
Sylios opens his eyes and smiles for the first time in a thousand years.
"Greetings Druid" the noble Draenei paladin says with a flourish "My name is Heimdall, and these are my companions Sibiy the hunter, and Lilac the warlock." he gestures to the huntress and a sinister looking gnome female standing nearby. "You fight well, if your looking for employment we may be in need of your services."
Sylios sits up and looks at the trio.
"Sibiy tells me that your name is Calmfury" Heimdall says with a smile.
Sylios begins to laughs out loud, his boisterous laughter and the tears rolling out his eyes are enough to insult his would be friends.
"I am sorry my friends, please forgive my irreverence." Sylios manages to say in kaldorai "My name is Sylios and I would be most grateful if you would lead me out of this frozen hell."
Heimdall and Sibiy look confused for a moment.
"See Heimdall, I told you he was an idiot, he doesn't even speak common." Sibiy says with a sneer.
Lilac pipes up in her little voice. "He is speaking an old dialect of Darnassian. He says his name is Sylios and he wants to leave with us."
As the blizzard grows in intensity, the four figures begin to make their way to the safety of shelter. Behind them lie the defeated remains of the Horde in Winterspring. As they disappear into the blowing storm, one figure rises from the snow. Turning sharply, the bloody tauren warrior shifts into lion form and disappears into the wilderness. No doubt he is bound for the cities of the Horde, filled with a new purpose.
Monday, November 16, 2009
pt 22 The Tauren's lament
I miss my life. I miss the feel of the wind, the sunshine, and yes even the cold. Though from what I can tell I have been effectively dead for many seasons.
I can clearly remember the day he kidnapped me. Or rather, he kidnapped my body. My name was Redtalon Grimtotem. I was once a part of the Grimtotem clan, who live apart from our tauren brethern for reasons I don't want to discuss. I was born and raised in a place called Grimtotem post in the Stonetalon mountains. At a very young age, I was not even a bull yet, I decided to follow my dreams and explore the barrens, and perhaps see the ancestral homeland of my people, Mulgore. Never had I seen a more beautiful land, and never had I felt more at home then in that place.
Sadly, it was where he found me. He came like a hellish spectre in the night. I ran for all I was worth, but he caught me. The last thing I remember were the cries of the plainstriders, my father told me that when I hear their scream it meant danger was near. He was right, as the demon seized me I passed out from fear.
When I awoke after all these years, I found myself as a ghost, and the demon calling himself Calmfury was possessing yet another body. Mine had been mutilated beyond reckoning.
These past several weeks have been miserable for me. I'm beginning to wish I would have stayed asleep. Calmfury and a Night Elf ghost named Sylios have been bickering incessantly. Sylios is some sort of elder and the owner of the body that Calmfury is possessing. From what I understand Sylios is trying to do everything he can to take control of his body.
He came close once, when Calmfury fell asleep. Sylios took control and ran us through the winter snows to some Night elf city. Sylios apparently remembered the place from thousands of years ago. But, when we got there all we found were ruins at the edge of a frozen lake. In his grief Sylios lost control of his body to Calmfury.
So now, we have taken up residence in a cave in the mountains. Calmfury preys upon a strange race of Furbolgs calling themselves the Winterfall. They possess some sort of potion that Calmfury craves. Anyway, yesterday we killed their chieftain and took his cave as our own.
"I think I have forgotten how to speak Orcish" Calmfury says out of the blue, breaking the long silence.
Sylios sneers with contempt.
I stand from my position by the entrance to the cave.
"You need to scurry your way back to hell demon!!" I say in Orcish.
Calmfury looks at me with a blank, clueless expression on his face.
Over the past few weeks I have noticed some bizarre changes in Calmfury. He seems to sit and think alot but, he's not remembering things. In fact, he seems to be forgetting more. I think it's the winterfall potions he's been drinking day after day to maintain control over Sylio's body.
"Well, I'm hungry. I'll be out hunting for a while. Don't wait up for me." Calmfury says as he rises from his bed and strides out of the cave.
Stark silence falls in our makeshift home. Nothing here but us ghosts.
"Sylios, aren't you going to follow him to make sure he doesn't wreck your body" I say in a ghostly whisper.
The mournful Night elf doesn't even look at me. He just sits quietly in the shadows.
The afternoon turns to evening, as the winds outside the cave begin to howl. Snow flurries blow in the dimming sunlight, a storm is coming in.
All at once, Sylios rises to his feet. "Red Talon. I may have a plan to end this nightmare. Will you help me?" he says in desperation.
I stare blankly at the frantic elf for a moment before nodding approval.
"Follow me!! I sense that Calmfury is in trouble!!" He says as he darts out of the cave.
It is morbid curiosity that causes me to rise and follow him into the growing blizzard outside. My father once said that nothing good happens in a storm, my intuition tells me he is right.
I can clearly remember the day he kidnapped me. Or rather, he kidnapped my body. My name was Redtalon Grimtotem. I was once a part of the Grimtotem clan, who live apart from our tauren brethern for reasons I don't want to discuss. I was born and raised in a place called Grimtotem post in the Stonetalon mountains. At a very young age, I was not even a bull yet, I decided to follow my dreams and explore the barrens, and perhaps see the ancestral homeland of my people, Mulgore. Never had I seen a more beautiful land, and never had I felt more at home then in that place.
Sadly, it was where he found me. He came like a hellish spectre in the night. I ran for all I was worth, but he caught me. The last thing I remember were the cries of the plainstriders, my father told me that when I hear their scream it meant danger was near. He was right, as the demon seized me I passed out from fear.
When I awoke after all these years, I found myself as a ghost, and the demon calling himself Calmfury was possessing yet another body. Mine had been mutilated beyond reckoning.
These past several weeks have been miserable for me. I'm beginning to wish I would have stayed asleep. Calmfury and a Night Elf ghost named Sylios have been bickering incessantly. Sylios is some sort of elder and the owner of the body that Calmfury is possessing. From what I understand Sylios is trying to do everything he can to take control of his body.
He came close once, when Calmfury fell asleep. Sylios took control and ran us through the winter snows to some Night elf city. Sylios apparently remembered the place from thousands of years ago. But, when we got there all we found were ruins at the edge of a frozen lake. In his grief Sylios lost control of his body to Calmfury.
So now, we have taken up residence in a cave in the mountains. Calmfury preys upon a strange race of Furbolgs calling themselves the Winterfall. They possess some sort of potion that Calmfury craves. Anyway, yesterday we killed their chieftain and took his cave as our own.
"I think I have forgotten how to speak Orcish" Calmfury says out of the blue, breaking the long silence.
Sylios sneers with contempt.
I stand from my position by the entrance to the cave.
"You need to scurry your way back to hell demon!!" I say in Orcish.
Calmfury looks at me with a blank, clueless expression on his face.
Over the past few weeks I have noticed some bizarre changes in Calmfury. He seems to sit and think alot but, he's not remembering things. In fact, he seems to be forgetting more. I think it's the winterfall potions he's been drinking day after day to maintain control over Sylio's body.
"Well, I'm hungry. I'll be out hunting for a while. Don't wait up for me." Calmfury says as he rises from his bed and strides out of the cave.
Stark silence falls in our makeshift home. Nothing here but us ghosts.
"Sylios, aren't you going to follow him to make sure he doesn't wreck your body" I say in a ghostly whisper.
The mournful Night elf doesn't even look at me. He just sits quietly in the shadows.
The afternoon turns to evening, as the winds outside the cave begin to howl. Snow flurries blow in the dimming sunlight, a storm is coming in.
All at once, Sylios rises to his feet. "Red Talon. I may have a plan to end this nightmare. Will you help me?" he says in desperation.
I stare blankly at the frantic elf for a moment before nodding approval.
"Follow me!! I sense that Calmfury is in trouble!!" He says as he darts out of the cave.
It is morbid curiosity that causes me to rise and follow him into the growing blizzard outside. My father once said that nothing good happens in a storm, my intuition tells me he is right.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
pt 21 Three's company
No matter how long I lay in the snow I can't feel the cold, at least not in the way that I remember feeling it.
It's been a few days since I left the wretched furbolgs and set out into the wilds of the snowy mountains. I don't know what I am supposed to find here, all I can really remember is that I hate someone by the name of Garrosh.
Everything seems so strange to me now. It was hard to hunt for my food at first because somehow I was used to hunting by scent, now I can't smell a thing. Though it seems like I can see things alot clearer, especially at night.
Today, I managed to kill a flying scaly creature and have been feasting on its flesh off and on all day. The rest of the time I have spent lying on my back in the snow and basking in the warmth of the sun.
"Are you still laying here you lazy idiot?" the booming voice of my tauren companion says to me as he steps into my precious sunlight.
Deep down inside I can't help but despise this tauren who calls himself Red Talon.
"Oh, its you again. Where is that whiny elfling Sylios?" I say with a sneer.
As much as I may despise their presence I can honestly say I think I would be dead now if it weren't for my two companions. Despite themselves, they have been helping me remember things.
The lumbering tauren shuffles through the deep snow. His ungainly race doesn't seem to have the knack for snow walking. Probably something to do with their hoofs.
"Sylios is around. I think he's up on a hill looking for a landmark or something." Red Talon says.
I can't help but laugh to myself. That stuffy elf is determined to get us out of this wilderness. As for me, I am quite happy here, and he isn't going anywhere without me.
My stomach begins to gurgle a bit and I feel a cramp coming on. Quickly, I rise from the snow and begin scrounging for my makeshift bag. My fingers begin to ache and I feel feverish as I tear at the sinew string to get it open. Reaching in and feeling around, I find the cold ceramic container that holds my precious cure. A moment later I pull the cork and begin greedily drinking the fluid inside. As quickly as the symptoms came they disappear, and a warm feeling of strength flows into my limbs.
"That was our last jar. How many of those have you put away today?" Sylios says as he strides confidently across the snow.
"There is plenty more of them to be had, we'll just kill a few more of those white furbolgs. They carry lots of them." I reply.
The Night Elf sneers at me contemptuously.
"So, if memory serves me correctly there is a place called Kel'Theril near here. There may be someone there that can help us." he says.
Once again, I lay on my back in the snow.
"Perhaps, but we aren't going. We're gonna stay right here." I say with a smile.
"What!!" Sylios yells "You ignorant fool!! We can't stay here. You said that once you have rested a bit we would find someone to help us! I want my body back!!"
"Yeah!" Red Talon snorts "Hey, what about me? I don't have a body to go back to. This idiot all but destroyed mine!!"
Sylios sneers at the young tauren.
"Well, that can't be helped now can it. It's not my fault. But, you need to get out of my body before you do something to wreck it!!" Sylios pauses for a moment "Calmfury, are you listening to me?!?"
I am not of course, I have been listening to this bickering for the past several days. No, I have no plans to give up this body, not until I figure out what I need to do. It has something to do with this Garrosh and another person... but I can't remember the second name.
Suddenly, a shot rings out across the snowy valley. I shift into a lion and disappear into hiding. Soon, I see a form moving across the icy fields below us. It appears to be a wolf, and it is chasing a white furbolg.
"Hey Calmfury look, it is a hunter of some sort." Red Talon says as he points farther up the valley.
Sure enough, I see an odd looking figure following the wolf through the snow. My curiosity gets the best of me, and I begin to creep down the snowy hillside towards the mysterious figure.
"Calmfury, you be careful. Don't go and get us killed you moron!!" Sylios shouts from behind me.
As I come around a stand of trees in the valley I see the hunter standing above its fallen prey. She appears to be an exotically beautiful female with deep blue skin and very strange curving horns jutting from her head. In one hand she is holding an ornate rifle, and with the other she is pulling a string of beads off the body of the furbolg.
"Hey, it's a Draenei woman. What's she doing out here?" Red Talon says from behind me.
I think I remember now, the Draenai were of group of bizarre travelers that came from the same world that the Orcs came from.
Suddenly, the hunters wolf starts to growl menacingly as he slowly moves towards me.
"What is it?" the huntress says as she raises her rifle in my direction.
I stand perfectly still, confident that my skill at hiding will protect me. Then it occurs to me that I can understand the language of this creature.
I watch her reach into her pack and pull out a strange tube, she strikes it on the butt of her rifle, and it ignites into a brilliant flare. She then throws it high into the air towards me. As the searing torch lands in the snow near me, I see a startled look of recognition wash across the hunters face. She raises her rifle and points it directly at me.
We stand perfectly still for a moment staring at one another.
"Druid!!" she breaks the silence. "Why are you stalking me?!?" she says in an elegant, rolling voice.
Once again my curiosity gets the best of me, I shift out of cat form. It takes me a moment to remember, but I think I can speak her language.
"Uhhh, I not sorry for hiding you from" I say with a stutter, not even sure I said anything right.
The Draenei looks puzzled for a moment. But, she doesn't let her guard down. Meanwhile, her canine companion stands faithfully at her side.
"Are you stupid or something?!?" she says sarcastically "Don't you know how to speak common?"
Her rudeness makes me angry and I feel rage welling inside me.
"What is she saying Calmfury?" Sylios says from behind me.
I ignore his question for the moment as I try desperately to remember how to speak her language.
"Uh, we are eager for help you. We don't think where to go" I manage to say.
The huntress throws up her hands in frustration, and then looks at me with a scowl.
"Ugh!! Alright you idiot, I'll help you find Starfall village. But only if you promise to stay out of my way!!" she says with a growl.
"Calmfury, what did she say!!" Sylios says in exasperation.
Once again I ignore the whiny elf and move cautiously towards the Draenei huntress. She turns and starts trudging her way through the snow as I follow. I pause only long enough to pick up the three ceramic vials that the dead furbolg was carrying.
We quietly walk for quite some time up the valley, to a place where I had not yet explored. Finally, as the sun nears the horizon we come to a forlorn little village at the base of a hill.
"Alright, you should find some shelter here for the time being" she says.
"Calmfury, ask her if she knows the way to Moonglade" Sylios says.
I can't help but hold some strange regard for the graceful Draenei. She seems to be as tough as nails but she still has some compassion for those in need.
"Uhh.. me Calmfury name. Wut be your name please" I say with a smile.
She stares at me for a moment with a contemptuous glare on her face.
"Well, Calmfury.. Idiots like you should stay out of the wilds or your gonna get yourself killed. There's all sorts of beasts and such lurking about, not to mention the Horde like to skin simpletons like you alive."
With that, she turns around and strides off into the snowy wilderness where she came.
My rage had begun to get the best of me, until she said the word Horde. Somehow this phrase has meaning to me. As I ponder this conundrum, I wheel about and once again return to the wilds where I came, away from Starfall village.
"Calmfury!!" Sylios exclaims in frustration "civilization is here, where in Elune's name are you going you idiot!!!"
It's been a few days since I left the wretched furbolgs and set out into the wilds of the snowy mountains. I don't know what I am supposed to find here, all I can really remember is that I hate someone by the name of Garrosh.
Everything seems so strange to me now. It was hard to hunt for my food at first because somehow I was used to hunting by scent, now I can't smell a thing. Though it seems like I can see things alot clearer, especially at night.
Today, I managed to kill a flying scaly creature and have been feasting on its flesh off and on all day. The rest of the time I have spent lying on my back in the snow and basking in the warmth of the sun.
"Are you still laying here you lazy idiot?" the booming voice of my tauren companion says to me as he steps into my precious sunlight.
Deep down inside I can't help but despise this tauren who calls himself Red Talon.
"Oh, its you again. Where is that whiny elfling Sylios?" I say with a sneer.
As much as I may despise their presence I can honestly say I think I would be dead now if it weren't for my two companions. Despite themselves, they have been helping me remember things.
The lumbering tauren shuffles through the deep snow. His ungainly race doesn't seem to have the knack for snow walking. Probably something to do with their hoofs.
"Sylios is around. I think he's up on a hill looking for a landmark or something." Red Talon says.
I can't help but laugh to myself. That stuffy elf is determined to get us out of this wilderness. As for me, I am quite happy here, and he isn't going anywhere without me.
My stomach begins to gurgle a bit and I feel a cramp coming on. Quickly, I rise from the snow and begin scrounging for my makeshift bag. My fingers begin to ache and I feel feverish as I tear at the sinew string to get it open. Reaching in and feeling around, I find the cold ceramic container that holds my precious cure. A moment later I pull the cork and begin greedily drinking the fluid inside. As quickly as the symptoms came they disappear, and a warm feeling of strength flows into my limbs.
"That was our last jar. How many of those have you put away today?" Sylios says as he strides confidently across the snow.
"There is plenty more of them to be had, we'll just kill a few more of those white furbolgs. They carry lots of them." I reply.
The Night Elf sneers at me contemptuously.
"So, if memory serves me correctly there is a place called Kel'Theril near here. There may be someone there that can help us." he says.
Once again, I lay on my back in the snow.
"Perhaps, but we aren't going. We're gonna stay right here." I say with a smile.
"What!!" Sylios yells "You ignorant fool!! We can't stay here. You said that once you have rested a bit we would find someone to help us! I want my body back!!"
"Yeah!" Red Talon snorts "Hey, what about me? I don't have a body to go back to. This idiot all but destroyed mine!!"
Sylios sneers at the young tauren.
"Well, that can't be helped now can it. It's not my fault. But, you need to get out of my body before you do something to wreck it!!" Sylios pauses for a moment "Calmfury, are you listening to me?!?"
I am not of course, I have been listening to this bickering for the past several days. No, I have no plans to give up this body, not until I figure out what I need to do. It has something to do with this Garrosh and another person... but I can't remember the second name.
Suddenly, a shot rings out across the snowy valley. I shift into a lion and disappear into hiding. Soon, I see a form moving across the icy fields below us. It appears to be a wolf, and it is chasing a white furbolg.
"Hey Calmfury look, it is a hunter of some sort." Red Talon says as he points farther up the valley.
Sure enough, I see an odd looking figure following the wolf through the snow. My curiosity gets the best of me, and I begin to creep down the snowy hillside towards the mysterious figure.
"Calmfury, you be careful. Don't go and get us killed you moron!!" Sylios shouts from behind me.
As I come around a stand of trees in the valley I see the hunter standing above its fallen prey. She appears to be an exotically beautiful female with deep blue skin and very strange curving horns jutting from her head. In one hand she is holding an ornate rifle, and with the other she is pulling a string of beads off the body of the furbolg.
"Hey, it's a Draenei woman. What's she doing out here?" Red Talon says from behind me.
I think I remember now, the Draenai were of group of bizarre travelers that came from the same world that the Orcs came from.
Suddenly, the hunters wolf starts to growl menacingly as he slowly moves towards me.
"What is it?" the huntress says as she raises her rifle in my direction.
I stand perfectly still, confident that my skill at hiding will protect me. Then it occurs to me that I can understand the language of this creature.
I watch her reach into her pack and pull out a strange tube, she strikes it on the butt of her rifle, and it ignites into a brilliant flare. She then throws it high into the air towards me. As the searing torch lands in the snow near me, I see a startled look of recognition wash across the hunters face. She raises her rifle and points it directly at me.
We stand perfectly still for a moment staring at one another.
"Druid!!" she breaks the silence. "Why are you stalking me?!?" she says in an elegant, rolling voice.
Once again my curiosity gets the best of me, I shift out of cat form. It takes me a moment to remember, but I think I can speak her language.
"Uhhh, I not sorry for hiding you from" I say with a stutter, not even sure I said anything right.
The Draenei looks puzzled for a moment. But, she doesn't let her guard down. Meanwhile, her canine companion stands faithfully at her side.
"Are you stupid or something?!?" she says sarcastically "Don't you know how to speak common?"
Her rudeness makes me angry and I feel rage welling inside me.
"What is she saying Calmfury?" Sylios says from behind me.
I ignore his question for the moment as I try desperately to remember how to speak her language.
"Uh, we are eager for help you. We don't think where to go" I manage to say.
The huntress throws up her hands in frustration, and then looks at me with a scowl.
"Ugh!! Alright you idiot, I'll help you find Starfall village. But only if you promise to stay out of my way!!" she says with a growl.
"Calmfury, what did she say!!" Sylios says in exasperation.
Once again I ignore the whiny elf and move cautiously towards the Draenei huntress. She turns and starts trudging her way through the snow as I follow. I pause only long enough to pick up the three ceramic vials that the dead furbolg was carrying.
We quietly walk for quite some time up the valley, to a place where I had not yet explored. Finally, as the sun nears the horizon we come to a forlorn little village at the base of a hill.
"Alright, you should find some shelter here for the time being" she says.
"Calmfury, ask her if she knows the way to Moonglade" Sylios says.
I can't help but hold some strange regard for the graceful Draenei. She seems to be as tough as nails but she still has some compassion for those in need.
"Uhh.. me Calmfury name. Wut be your name please" I say with a smile.
She stares at me for a moment with a contemptuous glare on her face.
"Well, Calmfury.. Idiots like you should stay out of the wilds or your gonna get yourself killed. There's all sorts of beasts and such lurking about, not to mention the Horde like to skin simpletons like you alive."
With that, she turns around and strides off into the snowy wilderness where she came.
My rage had begun to get the best of me, until she said the word Horde. Somehow this phrase has meaning to me. As I ponder this conundrum, I wheel about and once again return to the wilds where I came, away from Starfall village.
"Calmfury!!" Sylios exclaims in frustration "civilization is here, where in Elune's name are you going you idiot!!!"
Sunday, November 8, 2009
pt 20 A death sentence
"How dare you defy me Hamuul Runetotem! Your feeble understanding of the intricacies of the Emerald Dream may have put the whole of nature itself out of balance!!" Fandral says with a roar. His face is twisted into mask a fury.
Arch Druid Hamuul Runetotem sits in stoic silence. The old Tauren barely blinks at Arch Druid Fandral's outrageous claim.
A graceful and beautiful tauren woman rises from her seat in the meeting hall in anger. She is Bashana Runetotem, Hamuul's daughter, and second most senior druid amongst the Tauren.
"You pompous and arrogant elfling!! How dare you speak to Master Hamuul in such a manner. He is as much a disciple of Malfurion as you are!!" she says through her bared teeth.
"Ha!! I have served our founder for thousands of years young Tauren. The service of your master is but a twinkle in that time. Your people are a meer anomaly in the Order of Cenarius, and barely fit to join our ranks!" Fandral replies harshly.
Bashana balls her fists in rage, and looks as though she is about to spring across the room and attack Fandral where he stands.
"Bashana, please sit down. My dear, I can defend myself." Hamuul says calmly.
As Bashana gains control of herself, a beautiful and graceful Night elf priestess enters the hall.
Arch Druid Fandral looks startled for a moment.
"Tyrande! you were not invited to this meeting. We are discussing issues of the Order of Cenarius, of which you are not a part." Fandral says with a hiss.
The heavenly priestess turns to Fandral with a slight smile on her face.
"Master Fandral, I beg to disagree with you. Arch Druid Hamuul Runetotem invited me to attend." she says in her soft, soothing voice.
Fandral Staghelm turns to Hammul and glares at him with all the hatred and fury he can muster.
Another Night Elf druid stands from his seat in the hall, he is Quintis Jonespyre.
"Master Hamuul, you were about to explain why this young tauren druid was admitted to the Emerald Dream. Please tell us why you have taken this rash, and foolish course of action given the ongoing struggle that Malfurion fights in the dream." Quintis says with concern.
Mylentha Riverbend nods in approval and turns to Hamuul.
The elderly tauren rises from his seat and looks about the room.
"My brothers and sisters. I come today to confess that I have lied to you. I come to seek atonement and ask for your understanding."
Arch Druid Fandral Staghelm hisses through his teeth at Hamuul's plea.
"You were all lead to believe that a small tauren calfling being raised on Red Cloud Mesa in Mulgore was the reborn soul of Lord Diogenes Titus Lascarius, formerly of Dalaran, and the only human to ever be admitted into the Order of Cenarius..."
"Against my expressed assertions!!" Fandral interrupts.
Hamuul pauses for a moment before continuing.
"The reality of the situation is that Diogenes was found to be inhabiting the body of a much older tauren. We called him Calmfury, and trained him in our ways with the hope of..."
As Hamuul continues relating the story, another night elf comes to the entrance to the hall. His name is Rabine Saturna and he is a much regarded elder of the order. At his side stands a burly creature that looks alot like a upright bear. This creature is Kernda of the Timbermaw tribe of Furbolgs.
"I am certain wise Kernda that the council will want to hear what you have to say." the stately night elf says with a smile.
The strange creature looks about nervously.
"We Timbermaw want good relations with our druid brothers. It be impolite to not tell you what happened." Kernda says with a growl.
The heated discussion continues in the hall as the two respectfully stand outside.
Fandral Staghelm finally has enough of the story laid before him, he once again stands up and interrupts Hamuul mid-sentence.
"This once again proves that only the Kaldorei have the wisdom it takes to lead the Order of Cenarius. This council should never have offered to help this human, and it's short sightedness has put everything that Malfurion has worked for in jeopardy!" Fandral slams his fist down in anger.
The hall goes quiet, as the gravity of the situation bears down on its occupants.
Fandral stares at each member with a smug look on his face. As if to say I told you so. Finally, he breaks the tense silence;
"I see no other alternative but to have this Calmfury removed from his slumber, and have him mercifully put to death. Something that should have been done in the first place."
A shudder goes throughout the room. A death sentence? Never in all the centuries of the order has it been done. But in light of what has become, no one, not even Hamuul can bring themselves to even protest the order.
"Warden!!" Fandral shouts, and in walks a burly Tauren guard. "Send a runner to the keeper at the Storm Rage barrow Den. The Tauren known as Calmfury is to be taken from the den and brought to Nighthaven immediately!"
"Master Fandral!" Rabine steps forward "This Furbolg is from the Timbermaw tribe. He has something urgent that he wants to tell us. I think you should hear what he has to say."
Fandral motions for the guard to leave and then beckons for the Furbolg to enter the hall. All eyes turn towards the furry, primative beast as he hesitantly walks into the room.
"Greetings friends, I am Kernda of the Timbermaw. My chieftan has bid me to come tell you about some strange goings on earlier today."
Hamuul sits quietly with his head down while Fandral seems to feign interest in what the beast has to say.
"A druid came into our tunnel calling himself Calmfury. He seemed angry and upset about something. He was very hungry so we fed him. Then, he left without even thanking us. We only thought you should know because he said something about going to kill someone named Garrosh."
Once again the room goes quiet. Fandral stares in disbelief at the wide eyed furbolg. Hamuul stands and strides across the room.
"Kernda!" Hamuul says urgently "Are you certain this tauren said his name was Calmfury?!?"
The furbolg looks nervous and confused for a moment.
"Oh no..." The furbolg finally says, now Hamuul is the one that looks confused "he wasn't a tauren, my friends, he was a Night Elf. Yeah, he was a Night Elf and said his name was Calmfury Stonehoof."
High Priestess Tyrande jumps to her feet; "Fandral, if this human has come back in the form of a Night Elf, then he may spread the worgen curse to our people!"
Fandral looks about the room in disbelief before laying his eyes on Hamuul once again; "What have you done you fool!!" he says through snarling lips.
"I will rally the sentinels immediately, this Calmfury must be found before it is too late!!" Tyrande says with authority.
Once again Hamuul looks down at the floor in shame. His daughter comes to his side to comfort him as the assembly quickly leave the ancient hall.
"Bashana, please take us home. I am too old and heartbroken to see this to it's end" Hamuul says in a whisper.
Arch Druid Hamuul Runetotem sits in stoic silence. The old Tauren barely blinks at Arch Druid Fandral's outrageous claim.
A graceful and beautiful tauren woman rises from her seat in the meeting hall in anger. She is Bashana Runetotem, Hamuul's daughter, and second most senior druid amongst the Tauren.
"You pompous and arrogant elfling!! How dare you speak to Master Hamuul in such a manner. He is as much a disciple of Malfurion as you are!!" she says through her bared teeth.
"Ha!! I have served our founder for thousands of years young Tauren. The service of your master is but a twinkle in that time. Your people are a meer anomaly in the Order of Cenarius, and barely fit to join our ranks!" Fandral replies harshly.
Bashana balls her fists in rage, and looks as though she is about to spring across the room and attack Fandral where he stands.
"Bashana, please sit down. My dear, I can defend myself." Hamuul says calmly.
As Bashana gains control of herself, a beautiful and graceful Night elf priestess enters the hall.
Arch Druid Fandral looks startled for a moment.
"Tyrande! you were not invited to this meeting. We are discussing issues of the Order of Cenarius, of which you are not a part." Fandral says with a hiss.
The heavenly priestess turns to Fandral with a slight smile on her face.
"Master Fandral, I beg to disagree with you. Arch Druid Hamuul Runetotem invited me to attend." she says in her soft, soothing voice.
Fandral Staghelm turns to Hammul and glares at him with all the hatred and fury he can muster.
Another Night Elf druid stands from his seat in the hall, he is Quintis Jonespyre.
"Master Hamuul, you were about to explain why this young tauren druid was admitted to the Emerald Dream. Please tell us why you have taken this rash, and foolish course of action given the ongoing struggle that Malfurion fights in the dream." Quintis says with concern.
Mylentha Riverbend nods in approval and turns to Hamuul.
The elderly tauren rises from his seat and looks about the room.
"My brothers and sisters. I come today to confess that I have lied to you. I come to seek atonement and ask for your understanding."
Arch Druid Fandral Staghelm hisses through his teeth at Hamuul's plea.
"You were all lead to believe that a small tauren calfling being raised on Red Cloud Mesa in Mulgore was the reborn soul of Lord Diogenes Titus Lascarius, formerly of Dalaran, and the only human to ever be admitted into the Order of Cenarius..."
"Against my expressed assertions!!" Fandral interrupts.
Hamuul pauses for a moment before continuing.
"The reality of the situation is that Diogenes was found to be inhabiting the body of a much older tauren. We called him Calmfury, and trained him in our ways with the hope of..."
As Hamuul continues relating the story, another night elf comes to the entrance to the hall. His name is Rabine Saturna and he is a much regarded elder of the order. At his side stands a burly creature that looks alot like a upright bear. This creature is Kernda of the Timbermaw tribe of Furbolgs.
"I am certain wise Kernda that the council will want to hear what you have to say." the stately night elf says with a smile.
The strange creature looks about nervously.
"We Timbermaw want good relations with our druid brothers. It be impolite to not tell you what happened." Kernda says with a growl.
The heated discussion continues in the hall as the two respectfully stand outside.
Fandral Staghelm finally has enough of the story laid before him, he once again stands up and interrupts Hamuul mid-sentence.
"This once again proves that only the Kaldorei have the wisdom it takes to lead the Order of Cenarius. This council should never have offered to help this human, and it's short sightedness has put everything that Malfurion has worked for in jeopardy!" Fandral slams his fist down in anger.
The hall goes quiet, as the gravity of the situation bears down on its occupants.
Fandral stares at each member with a smug look on his face. As if to say I told you so. Finally, he breaks the tense silence;
"I see no other alternative but to have this Calmfury removed from his slumber, and have him mercifully put to death. Something that should have been done in the first place."
A shudder goes throughout the room. A death sentence? Never in all the centuries of the order has it been done. But in light of what has become, no one, not even Hamuul can bring themselves to even protest the order.
"Warden!!" Fandral shouts, and in walks a burly Tauren guard. "Send a runner to the keeper at the Storm Rage barrow Den. The Tauren known as Calmfury is to be taken from the den and brought to Nighthaven immediately!"
"Master Fandral!" Rabine steps forward "This Furbolg is from the Timbermaw tribe. He has something urgent that he wants to tell us. I think you should hear what he has to say."
Fandral motions for the guard to leave and then beckons for the Furbolg to enter the hall. All eyes turn towards the furry, primative beast as he hesitantly walks into the room.
"Greetings friends, I am Kernda of the Timbermaw. My chieftan has bid me to come tell you about some strange goings on earlier today."
Hamuul sits quietly with his head down while Fandral seems to feign interest in what the beast has to say.
"A druid came into our tunnel calling himself Calmfury. He seemed angry and upset about something. He was very hungry so we fed him. Then, he left without even thanking us. We only thought you should know because he said something about going to kill someone named Garrosh."
Once again the room goes quiet. Fandral stares in disbelief at the wide eyed furbolg. Hamuul stands and strides across the room.
"Kernda!" Hamuul says urgently "Are you certain this tauren said his name was Calmfury?!?"
The furbolg looks nervous and confused for a moment.
"Oh no..." The furbolg finally says, now Hamuul is the one that looks confused "he wasn't a tauren, my friends, he was a Night Elf. Yeah, he was a Night Elf and said his name was Calmfury Stonehoof."
High Priestess Tyrande jumps to her feet; "Fandral, if this human has come back in the form of a Night Elf, then he may spread the worgen curse to our people!"
Fandral looks about the room in disbelief before laying his eyes on Hamuul once again; "What have you done you fool!!" he says through snarling lips.
"I will rally the sentinels immediately, this Calmfury must be found before it is too late!!" Tyrande says with authority.
Once again Hamuul looks down at the floor in shame. His daughter comes to his side to comfort him as the assembly quickly leave the ancient hall.
"Bashana, please take us home. I am too old and heartbroken to see this to it's end" Hamuul says in a whisper.
Friday, November 6, 2009
pt 19 The forgotten watcher
Alone I sit on the white marble stone of the moonwell. Despite the cold of the morning air, I prefer to not wear clothing while I meditate. I stare into the swirling pool of glowing, mystical water. Sometimes it reveals visions of other places and times.
It is yet another quiet afternoon in the mystical valley of Moonglade. It always feels like spring in this place. Despite the constant change of seasons all across Azeroth, it never changes here. There is always the smell of new life and new growth. I have often wondered if this valley exists because of the druids who call it home, or do the druids exist because of the promise of balance and harmony this place teaches its inhabitants.
I am a Cenarion Dreamwarder. Long ago I devoted myself to the Order of Cenarius, and I have lived an ascetic life here ever since. I gave up my sense of self, possession, and even my own name, to devote my life to my job, which is to watch and tend to the countless druids who live, and slumber in the Stormrage Barrow Dens. I am not alone in this task. There are others who live as I do. In fact, across the northern reaches of Kalimdor there are several dens such as this.
Today, as I sit by the moonwell in meditation, I can't help but think about a strange word that has come to my ears. A little over a month ago a dying tauren said the word "Meekha" to me as he entered the barrow den for his long sleep.
This word Meekha translates several different ways. In Kaldorie it means peace, in draconic it means tenacity, and in orcish it means favored one. But, these diverse meanings matter little to me. The truth is that I heard this word in a prophetic dream long ago.
I had this dream while I was young. I was meditating near a moonwell as I am today. In it, I saw a war erupt in the deserts of Silithus. Great hordes of scarabs were pouring out of Ahn'Qiraj with the intention of devouring the world. But, in their way stood a massive beast. I know now that this creature was a druid in bear form, but unlike any that I have ever seen. This bear would kill the scarabs by the dozens with its powerful swipe, and its roar would shake the very ground, making the mindless invaders pause in their tracks.
I watched this battle continue for some time, wondering who would come to help this brave soul. Finally a flight of bronze dragons descended from the sky and called out to the beast, Meekha they called it.
After I awoke from the dream I researched the name Meekha in the archives and found no druid bearing such a name in all of our history. So, I concluded that this dream is of the future, instead of the past.
That is why when the tauren said that word, I was startled. Perhaps he had experienced the same vision as I, and perhaps he will find its meaning in the Emerald Dream. I look forward to talking to him about it when he awakes.
In the distance I hear a horn blow from the towering cliffs of Nighthaven, it is the fourth one today. It usually means that an Arch Druid of the order has come to Nighthaven. If so, there must be some sort of meeting being adjourned.
"Keeper, please forgive my intrusion into your meditation time. But, one of the sleepers has emerged from the dream." one of the other wardens says as he approaches me.
I stand up and turn in time to see a filthy looking night elf in a tattered shroud emerge from one of the dens. I immdiately recognize him as Sylios Leafwalker, an Arch Druid of the order. He entered his slumber when I was still young and could remember my own name.
I quickly put on my robe and jump down from the edge of the moonwell. Sylios walks in a daze across the verdant green ground.
So many times I have seen them, those who emerge from the dream. They seem like zombies in a strange way, barely even able to recognize the world around them. It is part of my job to talk to them and see them off in the right direction where they can transition into life outside the dream.
"Master Sylios, we are pleased to see you again in the land of the waking world." I say to him
He continues to walk stiff legged towards the archway leaving the compound. I walk with him trying to get his attention. Sometimes those emerging from the dream can become violent if they are approached the wrong way.
"Master Sylios you have awoke from the Emerald Dream after a great many years."
The ragged night elf stops in his tracks and stares blankly at a wandering deer in the gardens. Moments seem to pass slowly as I gradually see recognition wash across his dirty face.
I approach him closer and he turns to looks at me.
"Master Sylios, much has happened in the world since you entered the dream. Let me take you to Nighthaven to meet with the other elders."
Suddenly, a twisted look of dark rage comes across his face. His fists ball up tightly and a faint growl rises in his throat.
"My name is Calmfury!!" he yells at me in the language of the tauren. The sound of his voice echoes in the forest, leaving a stunned silence to all those who inhabit this place.
I step backwards, fearing that this creature will attack me.
With the graceful motion of a master shapechanger, the night elf turns into a tawny savannah cat, and darts off into the nearby woods.
Never in all my centuries of watching over the sleepers have I witnessed such an emergence, and I hope I never will again.
It is yet another quiet afternoon in the mystical valley of Moonglade. It always feels like spring in this place. Despite the constant change of seasons all across Azeroth, it never changes here. There is always the smell of new life and new growth. I have often wondered if this valley exists because of the druids who call it home, or do the druids exist because of the promise of balance and harmony this place teaches its inhabitants.
I am a Cenarion Dreamwarder. Long ago I devoted myself to the Order of Cenarius, and I have lived an ascetic life here ever since. I gave up my sense of self, possession, and even my own name, to devote my life to my job, which is to watch and tend to the countless druids who live, and slumber in the Stormrage Barrow Dens. I am not alone in this task. There are others who live as I do. In fact, across the northern reaches of Kalimdor there are several dens such as this.
Today, as I sit by the moonwell in meditation, I can't help but think about a strange word that has come to my ears. A little over a month ago a dying tauren said the word "Meekha" to me as he entered the barrow den for his long sleep.
This word Meekha translates several different ways. In Kaldorie it means peace, in draconic it means tenacity, and in orcish it means favored one. But, these diverse meanings matter little to me. The truth is that I heard this word in a prophetic dream long ago.
I had this dream while I was young. I was meditating near a moonwell as I am today. In it, I saw a war erupt in the deserts of Silithus. Great hordes of scarabs were pouring out of Ahn'Qiraj with the intention of devouring the world. But, in their way stood a massive beast. I know now that this creature was a druid in bear form, but unlike any that I have ever seen. This bear would kill the scarabs by the dozens with its powerful swipe, and its roar would shake the very ground, making the mindless invaders pause in their tracks.
I watched this battle continue for some time, wondering who would come to help this brave soul. Finally a flight of bronze dragons descended from the sky and called out to the beast, Meekha they called it.
After I awoke from the dream I researched the name Meekha in the archives and found no druid bearing such a name in all of our history. So, I concluded that this dream is of the future, instead of the past.
That is why when the tauren said that word, I was startled. Perhaps he had experienced the same vision as I, and perhaps he will find its meaning in the Emerald Dream. I look forward to talking to him about it when he awakes.
In the distance I hear a horn blow from the towering cliffs of Nighthaven, it is the fourth one today. It usually means that an Arch Druid of the order has come to Nighthaven. If so, there must be some sort of meeting being adjourned.
"Keeper, please forgive my intrusion into your meditation time. But, one of the sleepers has emerged from the dream." one of the other wardens says as he approaches me.
I stand up and turn in time to see a filthy looking night elf in a tattered shroud emerge from one of the dens. I immdiately recognize him as Sylios Leafwalker, an Arch Druid of the order. He entered his slumber when I was still young and could remember my own name.
I quickly put on my robe and jump down from the edge of the moonwell. Sylios walks in a daze across the verdant green ground.
So many times I have seen them, those who emerge from the dream. They seem like zombies in a strange way, barely even able to recognize the world around them. It is part of my job to talk to them and see them off in the right direction where they can transition into life outside the dream.
"Master Sylios, we are pleased to see you again in the land of the waking world." I say to him
He continues to walk stiff legged towards the archway leaving the compound. I walk with him trying to get his attention. Sometimes those emerging from the dream can become violent if they are approached the wrong way.
"Master Sylios you have awoke from the Emerald Dream after a great many years."
The ragged night elf stops in his tracks and stares blankly at a wandering deer in the gardens. Moments seem to pass slowly as I gradually see recognition wash across his dirty face.
I approach him closer and he turns to looks at me.
"Master Sylios, much has happened in the world since you entered the dream. Let me take you to Nighthaven to meet with the other elders."
Suddenly, a twisted look of dark rage comes across his face. His fists ball up tightly and a faint growl rises in his throat.
"My name is Calmfury!!" he yells at me in the language of the tauren. The sound of his voice echoes in the forest, leaving a stunned silence to all those who inhabit this place.
I step backwards, fearing that this creature will attack me.
With the graceful motion of a master shapechanger, the night elf turns into a tawny savannah cat, and darts off into the nearby woods.
Never in all my centuries of watching over the sleepers have I witnessed such an emergence, and I hope I never will again.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
pt 18 The sleep of the ancients
The solemn processional marches slowly down the road like mourners going to a funeral. Carried aloft is the litter holding the barely living body of Calmfury. He is wrapped tightly in several layers of linen cloth, making him look little more than a corpse.
With all that I have seen and heard over the past year, I can barely believe that fate would have brought us to this. Still, I do not understand what Elder Hamuul is thinking. I made my way through the Emerald Dream with the help of the green dragon flight, who jealously guard its mysteries. They made me swear a solemn oath to never reveal its secrets to anyone, on fear of a gruesome death. I was so honored that they choose me that the thought of betraying their trust is beyond my capacity.
I know that a mysterious human mage somehow made his way through on his own, using the forbidden knowledge that his kind waste their lives pursuing. But, what I am skeptical of is this idea that Calmfury will make his way across as well. If Elder Hamuul thinks that I will reveal the way, he has another thing coming.
Fireflies swarm in beautiful glowing clouds from the surrounding wilderness to light our way along the path. We pass beneath the ancient arch into the courtyard of the storm rage barrow dens. This twisting catacomb of burrows dug into the hillside house the multitude of druids who have sought out the Emerald Dream over the history of the order. Some say that the oldest of druids still slumber here.
The procession stops and the ancient keeper comes out of the den. He is a nameless night elf of unknown age that tends to the bodies of those who rest inside.
"Who seeks to unravel the mysteries of the dream?" the dark clad keeper says in a deep, booming voice.
Elder Hamuul steps forward. "The seeker is Calmfury, Guardian of Cenarius. He has travelled across the known world seeking a greater balance. Now, he seeks that balance within the dream."
"This is highly irregular Arch Druid Hamuul. Calmfury must announce himself and ask for a place within the den. No one has ever been brought here in such a way." the keeper replies
Elder Hamuul stands perfectly still for a moment, as if he did not expect to be challenged by the keeper.
"Calmfury has been gravely injured by enemies of the order. It was his final wish to be inducted into the dream before he died." Hamuul finally says with authority.
"This barrow den is a place of repose, not a graveyard. You must prove that Calmfury still lives, and he must invoke the right himself, before he is allowed to enter!"
As the keeper steps forward, the bearers of Calmfury's litter lower him to the ground. Blood from his wounds has seeped into the white linen shroud making him look quite ghastly. His once proud face, now battered and mutilated is all that shows from the wrappings.
The keeper kneels down and looks Calmfury in the face.
"Calmfury, Guardian of Cenarius, do you wish to seek the mysteries of the Emerald Dream?"
The broken tauren barely opens his eyes and looks up at the keeper. Then, he whispers something that is inaudible. The keeper leans down close, and turns his ear to Calmfury's mouth. Once again the bull whispers something.
I see tears well up in Elder Hamuul's eyes as the keeper stands up straight once again. I think he heard what Calmfury said.
"Calmfury has spoken! He may be taken in to the den." the keeper finally says.
With a collective sigh of relief, the procession resumes its solemn march into the den. The smell of fresh dirt and cool humidity prevade our senses as we descend into the darkenss.
I remember when I entered the dream and my last moments as a Night Elf. My friends helped me to dig a fresh burrow into the earth. Then, I was wrapped in the linen shroud like a corpse and the ritual of the dream was performed on me. I don't remember much about my time in the dream except that I was greeted by the image of my draconic keeper.
Some time passes while the group begins digging Calmfury's burrow in the soft earth.
It occurs to me that my own resting place is not far from where Calmfury is being laid. Naturally, curiosity gets the best of me and I slip quietly down the tunnel to take a peek. Afterall, who would pass up the opportunity to visit their own sleeping body?
My room is as I remember it. Roots hang down from the ceiling above my very small body laying on the floor. My face is all that I can see and I have a look of peaceful serenity.
"Do you miss being a Night Elf Charibdys?" Elder Hamuul says from the dark passage behind me.
I pause for a long moment as tears well up in my tauren eyes. Looking into my elven face I can't help but see my resemblance to my sister. Painful memories come flooding back.
"Elder, I do miss it. But, I have have learned so much living as a tauren. I would not trade that for anything, not even to have my little Belanna back." I try unsucessfully not to sob a little when I say her name.
"Dear sweet Charibdys. I have learned more from you than I ever thought I would come to understand. You have shown us a kind of strength and devotion that honestly may not exist in the race of tauren."
The old bull pauses for a moment, and makes a long sigh.
"Charibdys, I think it is time that we send you home to your own people where you belong."
Hamuul's words hit me hard and my heart skips a beat at the thought. I turn to face him in the musty dark of the tunnel, as tears roll down my cheeks. I cannot hide my sorrow anymore.
"Elder, I have to tell you that I don't think that Calmfury can find his way through the dream as I have. Fandrel was right, only myself and the human mage have done it, and I had the help of the green dragons to do it. Calmfury may be a druid but he is not a creature of balance and will not find peace there, he is going into a nightmare!"
Hamuul gets very serious and takes a deep breath before replying.
"Charibdys, there is something you don't understand. The truth is that I lied to Calmfury. He is not being sent into the dream to infiltrate the Alliance. Master Fandral was right, it would be a hateful exploitation of the mysteries of the dream to do so. In reality, if there is a war between the Horde and the Alliance, as horrible as it may be, it is of no real concern to us. We only care about balance."
Hamuul pauses for a moment as he looks down at the moist dirt. Then he looks up and motions for me to follow him deeper into the den. We carefully walk the winding paths past the innumerable burrows of sleeping druids. Finally, he ducks underneath a twisted root and enters the last den in the long hallway.
There on a slightly raised bed lies a bulging form wrapped tightly in his shroud. Where his face should be is the black, furry face of something that looks like a wolf. I recognize the body as a worgen, and I can see him breathing heavily as he sleeps.
"Charibdys, I would like you to meet the only human to ever be admitted into the Order of Cenarius. His name is Diogenes, and he is formerly a mage of Dalaran."
I stare in awe at the snarling, beastly form. A swell of pity wells in my chest for the poor human.
"Elder, this poor creature continues to suffer even in the dream, I don't understand how you say that he crossed over as I have." I say quietly, as if I am afraid to wake the beast.
Arch Druid Hamuul gently smiles at me. "Charibdys, the sad truth is that this creature before you is the tormented, mortal shell of the soul you know as Calmfury. After he entered the Emerald Dream, Diogenes emerged as a young tauren wandering the plains of Mulgore. He had no memory of who he was, but the stars told us the truth about him. So we called him Calmfury, and we trained him in his new life as a druid. I guess we foolishly thought the transformation had cured the poor soul of his curse."
Hamuul sighs out loud as he seems to struggle with what I think is regret.
"To our dismay Charibdys, it seems that the anger and rage he suffered with during his life as a tauren, is a remnant of the Curse of the Worgen. The evil magic of that curse has chased him through the Emerald Dream, and we fear that it threatens to affect him as a tauren. If this were to happen the curse may spread to other tauren like a disease, like it did to the humans in Gilneas. We simply cannot allow this to happen, so he needs to return to his body."
I pause for a moment in stunned astonishment before I am able to reply. "Elder, Calmfury spoke many times of his tauren family, his mother that died and his father that was some sort of painter?!"
"I know he did, but these people never existed, as tauren at least. I believe they were ghosts of memories from his former life. I think his human mother actually died of the plague in Lordaeron." Hamuul replies
It all makes perfect sense to me now, and the wisdom of the elders is clear.
"Charibdys, I think you need to go home to your life as a Night Elf. It is not right that you are here, despite all the good things you have done for us. Besides, knowing what you do about Calmfury, you can help him if he awakens." Hamuul finally says to me with a frown.
I look him in his big green eyes and once again tears run down my cheeks. The wise elder is right, I am eager to return to my people.
While they finish digging Calmfury's burrow, and lay him down in his resting place, I am wrapped in my own linen shroud. It is not unusual for several druids to share the same burrow, so I will sleep in the same place as Calmfury.
As I lay down in the soft earth next to Calmfury's unconscious body, the chanting of the Ritual of Dreaming rises in crescendo signaling its completion. Mylentha brings in the hot, burning coals that will ignite the yellow crystals, which will put us in a deep sleep and allow us to enter into the mysterious Emerald Dream.
Elder Hamuul comes to my side and holds my hand. Though there is a smile on his face, I can see tears in his eyes.
"Goodbye Charlibeth Mooncloud. You are always welcome in my lodge." He whispers.
"No Master Hamuul, my life as a tauren has changed me forever. From here on I will always be known as Charibdys" I reply with a smile.
He gives me a broad grin as he turns to leave the burrow. Mylentha also smiles at me before dropping the hot coal into the bed of crystals.
"Elder Hamuul!" I say "just to satisfy my elven curiosity, what did Calmfury say to the keeper to get us in?"
Hamuul turns to me as the yellow incense begins to fill the cramped burrow.
"He said the only thing that he has repeated since he was brought to Moonglade. He said the name Meekha."
With all that I have seen and heard over the past year, I can barely believe that fate would have brought us to this. Still, I do not understand what Elder Hamuul is thinking. I made my way through the Emerald Dream with the help of the green dragon flight, who jealously guard its mysteries. They made me swear a solemn oath to never reveal its secrets to anyone, on fear of a gruesome death. I was so honored that they choose me that the thought of betraying their trust is beyond my capacity.
I know that a mysterious human mage somehow made his way through on his own, using the forbidden knowledge that his kind waste their lives pursuing. But, what I am skeptical of is this idea that Calmfury will make his way across as well. If Elder Hamuul thinks that I will reveal the way, he has another thing coming.
Fireflies swarm in beautiful glowing clouds from the surrounding wilderness to light our way along the path. We pass beneath the ancient arch into the courtyard of the storm rage barrow dens. This twisting catacomb of burrows dug into the hillside house the multitude of druids who have sought out the Emerald Dream over the history of the order. Some say that the oldest of druids still slumber here.
The procession stops and the ancient keeper comes out of the den. He is a nameless night elf of unknown age that tends to the bodies of those who rest inside.
"Who seeks to unravel the mysteries of the dream?" the dark clad keeper says in a deep, booming voice.
Elder Hamuul steps forward. "The seeker is Calmfury, Guardian of Cenarius. He has travelled across the known world seeking a greater balance. Now, he seeks that balance within the dream."
"This is highly irregular Arch Druid Hamuul. Calmfury must announce himself and ask for a place within the den. No one has ever been brought here in such a way." the keeper replies
Elder Hamuul stands perfectly still for a moment, as if he did not expect to be challenged by the keeper.
"Calmfury has been gravely injured by enemies of the order. It was his final wish to be inducted into the dream before he died." Hamuul finally says with authority.
"This barrow den is a place of repose, not a graveyard. You must prove that Calmfury still lives, and he must invoke the right himself, before he is allowed to enter!"
As the keeper steps forward, the bearers of Calmfury's litter lower him to the ground. Blood from his wounds has seeped into the white linen shroud making him look quite ghastly. His once proud face, now battered and mutilated is all that shows from the wrappings.
The keeper kneels down and looks Calmfury in the face.
"Calmfury, Guardian of Cenarius, do you wish to seek the mysteries of the Emerald Dream?"
The broken tauren barely opens his eyes and looks up at the keeper. Then, he whispers something that is inaudible. The keeper leans down close, and turns his ear to Calmfury's mouth. Once again the bull whispers something.
I see tears well up in Elder Hamuul's eyes as the keeper stands up straight once again. I think he heard what Calmfury said.
"Calmfury has spoken! He may be taken in to the den." the keeper finally says.
With a collective sigh of relief, the procession resumes its solemn march into the den. The smell of fresh dirt and cool humidity prevade our senses as we descend into the darkenss.
I remember when I entered the dream and my last moments as a Night Elf. My friends helped me to dig a fresh burrow into the earth. Then, I was wrapped in the linen shroud like a corpse and the ritual of the dream was performed on me. I don't remember much about my time in the dream except that I was greeted by the image of my draconic keeper.
Some time passes while the group begins digging Calmfury's burrow in the soft earth.
It occurs to me that my own resting place is not far from where Calmfury is being laid. Naturally, curiosity gets the best of me and I slip quietly down the tunnel to take a peek. Afterall, who would pass up the opportunity to visit their own sleeping body?
My room is as I remember it. Roots hang down from the ceiling above my very small body laying on the floor. My face is all that I can see and I have a look of peaceful serenity.
"Do you miss being a Night Elf Charibdys?" Elder Hamuul says from the dark passage behind me.
I pause for a long moment as tears well up in my tauren eyes. Looking into my elven face I can't help but see my resemblance to my sister. Painful memories come flooding back.
"Elder, I do miss it. But, I have have learned so much living as a tauren. I would not trade that for anything, not even to have my little Belanna back." I try unsucessfully not to sob a little when I say her name.
"Dear sweet Charibdys. I have learned more from you than I ever thought I would come to understand. You have shown us a kind of strength and devotion that honestly may not exist in the race of tauren."
The old bull pauses for a moment, and makes a long sigh.
"Charibdys, I think it is time that we send you home to your own people where you belong."
Hamuul's words hit me hard and my heart skips a beat at the thought. I turn to face him in the musty dark of the tunnel, as tears roll down my cheeks. I cannot hide my sorrow anymore.
"Elder, I have to tell you that I don't think that Calmfury can find his way through the dream as I have. Fandrel was right, only myself and the human mage have done it, and I had the help of the green dragons to do it. Calmfury may be a druid but he is not a creature of balance and will not find peace there, he is going into a nightmare!"
Hamuul gets very serious and takes a deep breath before replying.
"Charibdys, there is something you don't understand. The truth is that I lied to Calmfury. He is not being sent into the dream to infiltrate the Alliance. Master Fandral was right, it would be a hateful exploitation of the mysteries of the dream to do so. In reality, if there is a war between the Horde and the Alliance, as horrible as it may be, it is of no real concern to us. We only care about balance."
Hamuul pauses for a moment as he looks down at the moist dirt. Then he looks up and motions for me to follow him deeper into the den. We carefully walk the winding paths past the innumerable burrows of sleeping druids. Finally, he ducks underneath a twisted root and enters the last den in the long hallway.
There on a slightly raised bed lies a bulging form wrapped tightly in his shroud. Where his face should be is the black, furry face of something that looks like a wolf. I recognize the body as a worgen, and I can see him breathing heavily as he sleeps.
"Charibdys, I would like you to meet the only human to ever be admitted into the Order of Cenarius. His name is Diogenes, and he is formerly a mage of Dalaran."
I stare in awe at the snarling, beastly form. A swell of pity wells in my chest for the poor human.
"Elder, this poor creature continues to suffer even in the dream, I don't understand how you say that he crossed over as I have." I say quietly, as if I am afraid to wake the beast.
Arch Druid Hamuul gently smiles at me. "Charibdys, the sad truth is that this creature before you is the tormented, mortal shell of the soul you know as Calmfury. After he entered the Emerald Dream, Diogenes emerged as a young tauren wandering the plains of Mulgore. He had no memory of who he was, but the stars told us the truth about him. So we called him Calmfury, and we trained him in his new life as a druid. I guess we foolishly thought the transformation had cured the poor soul of his curse."
Hamuul sighs out loud as he seems to struggle with what I think is regret.
"To our dismay Charibdys, it seems that the anger and rage he suffered with during his life as a tauren, is a remnant of the Curse of the Worgen. The evil magic of that curse has chased him through the Emerald Dream, and we fear that it threatens to affect him as a tauren. If this were to happen the curse may spread to other tauren like a disease, like it did to the humans in Gilneas. We simply cannot allow this to happen, so he needs to return to his body."
I pause for a moment in stunned astonishment before I am able to reply. "Elder, Calmfury spoke many times of his tauren family, his mother that died and his father that was some sort of painter?!"
"I know he did, but these people never existed, as tauren at least. I believe they were ghosts of memories from his former life. I think his human mother actually died of the plague in Lordaeron." Hamuul replies
It all makes perfect sense to me now, and the wisdom of the elders is clear.
"Charibdys, I think you need to go home to your life as a Night Elf. It is not right that you are here, despite all the good things you have done for us. Besides, knowing what you do about Calmfury, you can help him if he awakens." Hamuul finally says to me with a frown.
I look him in his big green eyes and once again tears run down my cheeks. The wise elder is right, I am eager to return to my people.
While they finish digging Calmfury's burrow, and lay him down in his resting place, I am wrapped in my own linen shroud. It is not unusual for several druids to share the same burrow, so I will sleep in the same place as Calmfury.
As I lay down in the soft earth next to Calmfury's unconscious body, the chanting of the Ritual of Dreaming rises in crescendo signaling its completion. Mylentha brings in the hot, burning coals that will ignite the yellow crystals, which will put us in a deep sleep and allow us to enter into the mysterious Emerald Dream.
Elder Hamuul comes to my side and holds my hand. Though there is a smile on his face, I can see tears in his eyes.
"Goodbye Charlibeth Mooncloud. You are always welcome in my lodge." He whispers.
"No Master Hamuul, my life as a tauren has changed me forever. From here on I will always be known as Charibdys" I reply with a smile.
He gives me a broad grin as he turns to leave the burrow. Mylentha also smiles at me before dropping the hot coal into the bed of crystals.
"Elder Hamuul!" I say "just to satisfy my elven curiosity, what did Calmfury say to the keeper to get us in?"
Hamuul turns to me as the yellow incense begins to fill the cramped burrow.
"He said the only thing that he has repeated since he was brought to Moonglade. He said the name Meekha."
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
pt 17 Hamuul's fateful choice
The wind makes my eyes water. Tears roll down my cheeks and land on the tawny fur of the Wyvern I am riding.
For most of the afternoon I have been flying across the wild expanse of Kalimdor. I heard the news about Calmfury this morning and I set out for Moonglade to see for myself what has become. I cannot say I did not expect this to happen at some point, when someone lives on the blade of a knife he will be cut sooner or later. Of course that does not take out the pain that fate has brought to us. I say this because the truth of the matter is that Calmfury is like a son to me.
The wyvern I am riding gracefully swoops over the rugged, snow covered mountains and begins its descent into the immortal valley of Moonglade. There on the edge of a crystal clear lake lies the place where druids call their home. Or at the very least where the elders of the Cenarion Circle come to discuss the mysteries of our order.
My stomach rolls as we dive into the valley and fly like an arrow across the surface of the lake. Then all at once, like the well trained beast he is, my wyvern soars into the air again and lands gracefully at the roost on the cliffs above the lake.
"Elder Hamuul, welcome back to Moonglade. You are expected in the meeting hall of Nighthaven." the Tauren flightmaster named Bunthen Plainswind says to me as I hop off the back of the Wyvern.
"Thank you Bunthen" I say, as I hear the heralds horn echo across the valley, announcing the arrival of an elder.
I collect my travel bag and head out through the streets of the small village. The air is crisp and clean. Birds in multitudes fill the air above us, giving the impression that this place is at the center of a primordial garden free of disease and death. Though, today I know that this is not the case.
The twisting paths take me to the ancient hall of Nighthaven. It's simple but beautiful architecture stands as a monument to our order. As I enter I see a bed laid on the floor, on it the most pitiable sight I have had the misfortune to witness. Wrapped tightly in a burial shroud of linen lies the once powerful Calmfury. Even from here I can see he is barely breathing. The ever vigilant and loyal Charibdys stands at his side.
"Arch Druid Hamuul Runetotem, it is good to see you again." I look up and on a balcony above the floor stands Arch Druid Fandral Staghelm
Fandral is the most senior member of the Cenarion Circle, and certainly the oldest. He is a very ambitious and impatient Night elf. On his best days he is barely tolerable.
I bow in respect of him. "Master Fandral, it is a pleasure. What brings you out of Darnassus these days?"
He chuckles a bit and looks me up and down with contempt on his face. "You think that word has not reached my ears of your plans? This effort to exploit to Emerald Dream is over." he says with a flash of anger in his eyes.
"Arch Druid, the Emerald Dream is open to any druid of the order. Why should we cut off Calmfury from its mysteries?"
"Hamuul, you know that there have only been two creatures in all of the history of the order who have traversed the dream as you propose. One was the human mage, whom you all foolishly decided to help over my objections, and the other was Charlibeth with the blessings of the Green Dragonflight. It is well known that the mage had forbidden knowledge that helped him. How do you think that this tauren will be able to accomplish this task?"
I look down in sorrow as I feel the sting of grief in my heart.
"I don't expect him to cross, in his condition he is too weak to make the transition into the dream." I pause for a moment to collect my thoughts. "Master Fandral, Calmfury was like a son to me. I have come to witness his passage and see him laid to rest."
The night elf seems surprised at my response, and looks at me for a moment as if I am lying to him. Of course, it would be the height of audacity to openly suggest that I am. That is what I am counting on.
"Very well then Master Hamuul. I will leave you to your mourning. Though I will remind you, as is my duty, to not linger on death for too long. It is not our way" he says with a sneer.
I fake a smile as the Night Elf turns and leaves the sacred hall.
"Charibdys" I say "How is Calmfury?"
The beautiful tauren looks up at me with a stoic face of mourning. I already know the answer.
"Elder Hamuul!" in walks the revered Mylentha Riverbend. She is another elder in the Cenarion Circle and one of the finest healers I have ever met. "I am sorry to say that Calmfury will not last the night. His injuries are extensive, and he has lost the will to live. He is beyond my care Hamuul. I am sorry."
She lovingly cradles my chin in her hand, trying to console me.
"Elder Mylentha, I understand that Calmfury was brought here three days ago. Why wasn't I told sooner about him?"
Silence falls across the three of us. Charibdys and Mylentha look at one another as if some secret lies between them that they dare not tell.
Finally Charibdys speaks in a whisper. "Elder, Arch Druid Fandral was here when I brought Calmfury. He personally oversaw his care and forbid us to tell anyone what happened."
Anger rises inside of me, but I dare not show it.
"Elder Hamuul, you said to Fandral that Calmfury would not be strong enough to make the passage into the dream. Honestly, if he was to be induced into the dream he may yet live." Mylentha says inquisitively
I look at the venerable tauren for a moment. If I put him into the dream then what I told Fandral in honesty will be construed as a lie.
Off in the distance the heralds horn echos across the valley, once again announcing the arrival or the departure of an Elder.
Mylentha turns to tend Calmfury's death shroud. "Oh, it sounds like Fandral has returned to Darnassus." she pauses "Poor Calmfury, if you would have harvested your own crystals we may have been able to save you."
Trying hard not to smile I reach into my travel pack and pull out a small, battered leather bag filled with yellow crystals from the depths of Ungoro crater.
"Elder Mylentha, prepare the Ritual of Dreaming, I will gather a processional. Tonight we will march to the Storm Rage Barrow Dens."
For most of the afternoon I have been flying across the wild expanse of Kalimdor. I heard the news about Calmfury this morning and I set out for Moonglade to see for myself what has become. I cannot say I did not expect this to happen at some point, when someone lives on the blade of a knife he will be cut sooner or later. Of course that does not take out the pain that fate has brought to us. I say this because the truth of the matter is that Calmfury is like a son to me.
The wyvern I am riding gracefully swoops over the rugged, snow covered mountains and begins its descent into the immortal valley of Moonglade. There on the edge of a crystal clear lake lies the place where druids call their home. Or at the very least where the elders of the Cenarion Circle come to discuss the mysteries of our order.
My stomach rolls as we dive into the valley and fly like an arrow across the surface of the lake. Then all at once, like the well trained beast he is, my wyvern soars into the air again and lands gracefully at the roost on the cliffs above the lake.
"Elder Hamuul, welcome back to Moonglade. You are expected in the meeting hall of Nighthaven." the Tauren flightmaster named Bunthen Plainswind says to me as I hop off the back of the Wyvern.
"Thank you Bunthen" I say, as I hear the heralds horn echo across the valley, announcing the arrival of an elder.
I collect my travel bag and head out through the streets of the small village. The air is crisp and clean. Birds in multitudes fill the air above us, giving the impression that this place is at the center of a primordial garden free of disease and death. Though, today I know that this is not the case.
The twisting paths take me to the ancient hall of Nighthaven. It's simple but beautiful architecture stands as a monument to our order. As I enter I see a bed laid on the floor, on it the most pitiable sight I have had the misfortune to witness. Wrapped tightly in a burial shroud of linen lies the once powerful Calmfury. Even from here I can see he is barely breathing. The ever vigilant and loyal Charibdys stands at his side.
"Arch Druid Hamuul Runetotem, it is good to see you again." I look up and on a balcony above the floor stands Arch Druid Fandral Staghelm
Fandral is the most senior member of the Cenarion Circle, and certainly the oldest. He is a very ambitious and impatient Night elf. On his best days he is barely tolerable.
I bow in respect of him. "Master Fandral, it is a pleasure. What brings you out of Darnassus these days?"
He chuckles a bit and looks me up and down with contempt on his face. "You think that word has not reached my ears of your plans? This effort to exploit to Emerald Dream is over." he says with a flash of anger in his eyes.
"Arch Druid, the Emerald Dream is open to any druid of the order. Why should we cut off Calmfury from its mysteries?"
"Hamuul, you know that there have only been two creatures in all of the history of the order who have traversed the dream as you propose. One was the human mage, whom you all foolishly decided to help over my objections, and the other was Charlibeth with the blessings of the Green Dragonflight. It is well known that the mage had forbidden knowledge that helped him. How do you think that this tauren will be able to accomplish this task?"
I look down in sorrow as I feel the sting of grief in my heart.
"I don't expect him to cross, in his condition he is too weak to make the transition into the dream." I pause for a moment to collect my thoughts. "Master Fandral, Calmfury was like a son to me. I have come to witness his passage and see him laid to rest."
The night elf seems surprised at my response, and looks at me for a moment as if I am lying to him. Of course, it would be the height of audacity to openly suggest that I am. That is what I am counting on.
"Very well then Master Hamuul. I will leave you to your mourning. Though I will remind you, as is my duty, to not linger on death for too long. It is not our way" he says with a sneer.
I fake a smile as the Night Elf turns and leaves the sacred hall.
"Charibdys" I say "How is Calmfury?"
The beautiful tauren looks up at me with a stoic face of mourning. I already know the answer.
"Elder Hamuul!" in walks the revered Mylentha Riverbend. She is another elder in the Cenarion Circle and one of the finest healers I have ever met. "I am sorry to say that Calmfury will not last the night. His injuries are extensive, and he has lost the will to live. He is beyond my care Hamuul. I am sorry."
She lovingly cradles my chin in her hand, trying to console me.
"Elder Mylentha, I understand that Calmfury was brought here three days ago. Why wasn't I told sooner about him?"
Silence falls across the three of us. Charibdys and Mylentha look at one another as if some secret lies between them that they dare not tell.
Finally Charibdys speaks in a whisper. "Elder, Arch Druid Fandral was here when I brought Calmfury. He personally oversaw his care and forbid us to tell anyone what happened."
Anger rises inside of me, but I dare not show it.
"Elder Hamuul, you said to Fandral that Calmfury would not be strong enough to make the passage into the dream. Honestly, if he was to be induced into the dream he may yet live." Mylentha says inquisitively
I look at the venerable tauren for a moment. If I put him into the dream then what I told Fandral in honesty will be construed as a lie.
Off in the distance the heralds horn echos across the valley, once again announcing the arrival or the departure of an Elder.
Mylentha turns to tend Calmfury's death shroud. "Oh, it sounds like Fandral has returned to Darnassus." she pauses "Poor Calmfury, if you would have harvested your own crystals we may have been able to save you."
Trying hard not to smile I reach into my travel pack and pull out a small, battered leather bag filled with yellow crystals from the depths of Ungoro crater.
"Elder Mylentha, prepare the Ritual of Dreaming, I will gather a processional. Tonight we will march to the Storm Rage Barrow Dens."
Friday, October 30, 2009
pt 16 Facing the hatred, again
It shames me to say that I haven't laughed this hard in a long time. The biting wind and the slippery snow seems to just add to poor Meekha's frustration, as she tries hard to swing the wooden sword at the training dummy.
"Oof!! lil Meekha, youf gotta swing yer hips wit dah sword"
Of all the people, Slasherjoe stayed at the Argent Tournament grounds to help me train my little Gruntling. He is an honorable and noble orc, and I trust him more than many others I know.
Meekha holds the sword high in the air and swings hard at the training dummy. She screams a battle cry as the blade impacts the shield. Unfortunately, she doesn't recover fast enough and the swinging pendulum of the dummies arm impacts her hard in the chest. Into the snowbank she tumbles.
Slasher looks at me and shakes his head.
"Eets okay Calm, shees learnin, eet won't take vewy long fer eer to pick eet up a goodin."
Meekha picks herself up out of the snowbank and looks at us with an angry stare. Then she grabs her wooden sword and heads right back to work on the training dummy.
"The little thing has tenacity, I'll give her that" I say as I try to stifle my laughter.
Slasher looks at me in surprise. "Of cours she dus. Shees da chiltren of heroes of da Horde! Sheel make a miyty warrior sum day!!"
A gust of wind blows up from the north, cold as icy death. The banners of the Argent tournament snap and wave in the wind. This place always makes me yearn for the warmth and peace of Mulgore.
"So Calm, wheen you gonna tell lil Meekha about er Father?" Slasher says in a whisper.
I look at him with every bit of harshness and disapproval I can muster.
"Well, look who we have here. It is the mighty Calmfury. I heard you were showing your face around here again but I could hardly believe it."
A chill of terror shoots up my spine, worse than any that Northrend's haunted wind could bring me. I cautiously turn and look into the grinning face of Garrosh Hellscream. He stands confidently in the snow with his elite guards, along with Trion Fordring himself.
"Garrosh, we have to finish our inspection of the tournament grounds and meet up with Thrall." Trion says with authority.
The Orc warlord sneers at me, and then turns to Trion. "Why don't you go ahead with my guard. I have seen enough of this place to be satisfied. Tell Thrall I'll be along soon." He turns back to me with a grin on his face.
Trion frowns with disapproval, then turns and continues his walk around the tournament grounds.
"So, Calmfury... I heard that you were part of an expedition into the titan city. My, you are such a brave hero."
Warily I stand in the snow looking at Garrosh. I feel my body tense up and my knees begin to shake a bit. Out of the corner of my eye I can see Meekha, she is focusing on the target dummy and oblivious to the danger at hand.
Garrosh looks at Slasherjoe, who also seems oblivious. "Warrior, why don't you go find something to do. I need to talk to our friend here." Garrosh says to him in a threatening tone.
"Uh, shur boss." Slasher says as he wheels about. "Calm, eyl be workin wit lil Meekha while yous are bizzy."
I am left in the snow with him.
"Calmfury, how about we take a short walk. I have something important I want to show you." Garrosh says as he motions me towards the edge of the moutain overlooking the north sea.
Cautiously I follow his command as my mind races on how to get out of this situation. I still don't know if Garrosh remembers who my gruntling is. I don't care if he hurts me, but if he tries to harm her I will give everything I am to kill him.
"Young Tauren, you don't need to be on your guard with me, I'm not going to hurt you. In fact, I have big plans for you. We have a war coming and we need mighty warriors like you."
I ease somewhat, though I am still unsure if I can trust him or not.
"Garrosh, it had always been my intent to serve the Horde in any way I can." I say to him slowly.
"Ahh, this is good Calmfury. Because I have an important task I need you to perform for me."
As he says this, we come to the cliff edge overlooking the sea. Far below us I see the frozen waters of the Sea Reavers run.
"Calmfury, there is a war coming with the Alliance, and we need to be prepared. We have worked hard to break the bonds of peace with them and soon our glorious Horde will be cheering from the towers of Stormwind."
An icy gust blows up from the sea once again and I can almost hear the voice of Arthas laughing on the wind.
"My Lord, what about Arthas?" I say to him cautiously. "Aren't we still at war with him? Maybe we shouldn't be picking a fight with the Alliance until Arthas is dead."
Garrosh's grin turns into a scowl. He licks the ice off his tusks and then snorts at me in disapproval.
"In my Horde" Garrosh continues "I have no room for those who would fail me. You know this more than anyone Tauren! We have to be mighty, honorable and without mercy as our people has always been."
I turn to face him. A sinister look washes across his brown face.
"Garrosh, what is this task you want me to do?" I ask.
With that, a sharp pain pierces my side. The breath goes out of me in an instant as my lung collapses in my chest. As I turn to face my attacker, I feel my legs stiffen up, and I fall to my knees at the cliffs edge. Looking up, I see the smiling face of a weedy little orc holding a bloody dagger, he is missing one of his tusks.
I reach out for the assassin to no avail, my arms go stiff and I fall flat on my face in the snow.
"Vengeance Tauren, this is vengeance for knocking out my tusk. Now you die!!" the weedy orc yells as he lunges forward with his blade.
With a swift motion, Garrosh grabs the little orc by the scruff and tosses him into the nearby snow bank. Then I feel his hands on me as he turns me over.
"My task for you Calmfury, Guardian of Cenarius is to die!! You have insulted me in front of my Horde and for this you will pay with your pathetic life!!" Garrosh yells in triumph.
It just so happens that when Garrosh turned me over my face fell in the direction of Meekha. I watch as she swings her wooden sword in a mighty arc, striking the training dummies shield. Then, she expertly ducks below the swinging pendulum. With a proud smile on her innocent face she turns to Slasherjoe and cheers. Then, she looks around to see if I was watching.
Her eyes fall upon me and I see her proud smile turns to a look of abject horror.
"Lets see how a druid works when he's been chopped to pieces!!" Garrosh yells as he swings his huge axe down. The razor sharp blade cleaves into my upper arm, severing it in one clean blow. Whatever poison I am subject to does nothing to ease the pain.
I watch Meekha as she screams in horror. Slasherjoe turns around to see what she is screaming at in time to see Garrosh cut off my other arm.
The pain is so intense I nearly black out.
Meekha pulls out the glowing dagger I gave her and begins charging across the field at Garrosh.
By the Earthmother no! Save us from this horrible fate.
Slasherjoe begins chasing after Meekha. It is then that I see the weedy little assassin pull himself out of the snow bank. On his face is the smug grin I recognize from the Alliance murderers I have fought. He draws his dagger and starts out for my little gruntling.
Just before he falls upon her I see Slasher cleave downward with his poleaxe, cutting the spineless assassin in two.
"Get away from my master you honorless dog!!!" my little Meekha yells out at Garrosh, holding her glowing dagger at the ready.
I feel my heart break
Garrosh Hellscream, Overlord of the Warsong offensive, sneers at the little Orc. "An honorless dog am I?"
With that Garrosh kicks me hard in the side. I feel several of my ribs break as my armless body rolls off the side of the cliff.
I fall for what seems like an eternity before hitting an icy outcropping in the cliffside. Whats left of my body is crushed as I slide down a slope. Then I come to an abrupt stop on a precarious ledge.
Here is the place I am to die, not as a hero of my people, but as a shameful and forgotten soldier who dared to question his leader.
I stare out at the merciless sea, as the icy winds of death howl in laughter at me. Already the scavengers, foul birds, begin to circle me.
I think that Thrall was right. Wisdom and mercy are the things that give a person true value. Sadly, it is too late to tell this to my poor Meekha.
One of the scavengers lands on the ledge. The wretched bird hops about for a moment and then pauses to look me in the eyes. Perhaps it is mocking me before it feasts on my flesh.
My eyes begin to darken.
"Fear not Calmfury, your story is not yet told, fate has something else in store for you" I look up to see the smiling face of Charibdys. The bird was not a vulture, but her in stormcrow form.
A portal opens up next to me. "I am taking you to Moonglade" she says as she pulls my broken body through the portal.
With what little strength I have I am able to whisper just one word.
"Meekha"
"Oof!! lil Meekha, youf gotta swing yer hips wit dah sword"
Of all the people, Slasherjoe stayed at the Argent Tournament grounds to help me train my little Gruntling. He is an honorable and noble orc, and I trust him more than many others I know.
Meekha holds the sword high in the air and swings hard at the training dummy. She screams a battle cry as the blade impacts the shield. Unfortunately, she doesn't recover fast enough and the swinging pendulum of the dummies arm impacts her hard in the chest. Into the snowbank she tumbles.
Slasher looks at me and shakes his head.
"Eets okay Calm, shees learnin, eet won't take vewy long fer eer to pick eet up a goodin."
Meekha picks herself up out of the snowbank and looks at us with an angry stare. Then she grabs her wooden sword and heads right back to work on the training dummy.
"The little thing has tenacity, I'll give her that" I say as I try to stifle my laughter.
Slasher looks at me in surprise. "Of cours she dus. Shees da chiltren of heroes of da Horde! Sheel make a miyty warrior sum day!!"
A gust of wind blows up from the north, cold as icy death. The banners of the Argent tournament snap and wave in the wind. This place always makes me yearn for the warmth and peace of Mulgore.
"So Calm, wheen you gonna tell lil Meekha about er Father?" Slasher says in a whisper.
I look at him with every bit of harshness and disapproval I can muster.
"Well, look who we have here. It is the mighty Calmfury. I heard you were showing your face around here again but I could hardly believe it."
A chill of terror shoots up my spine, worse than any that Northrend's haunted wind could bring me. I cautiously turn and look into the grinning face of Garrosh Hellscream. He stands confidently in the snow with his elite guards, along with Trion Fordring himself.
"Garrosh, we have to finish our inspection of the tournament grounds and meet up with Thrall." Trion says with authority.
The Orc warlord sneers at me, and then turns to Trion. "Why don't you go ahead with my guard. I have seen enough of this place to be satisfied. Tell Thrall I'll be along soon." He turns back to me with a grin on his face.
Trion frowns with disapproval, then turns and continues his walk around the tournament grounds.
"So, Calmfury... I heard that you were part of an expedition into the titan city. My, you are such a brave hero."
Warily I stand in the snow looking at Garrosh. I feel my body tense up and my knees begin to shake a bit. Out of the corner of my eye I can see Meekha, she is focusing on the target dummy and oblivious to the danger at hand.
Garrosh looks at Slasherjoe, who also seems oblivious. "Warrior, why don't you go find something to do. I need to talk to our friend here." Garrosh says to him in a threatening tone.
"Uh, shur boss." Slasher says as he wheels about. "Calm, eyl be workin wit lil Meekha while yous are bizzy."
I am left in the snow with him.
"Calmfury, how about we take a short walk. I have something important I want to show you." Garrosh says as he motions me towards the edge of the moutain overlooking the north sea.
Cautiously I follow his command as my mind races on how to get out of this situation. I still don't know if Garrosh remembers who my gruntling is. I don't care if he hurts me, but if he tries to harm her I will give everything I am to kill him.
"Young Tauren, you don't need to be on your guard with me, I'm not going to hurt you. In fact, I have big plans for you. We have a war coming and we need mighty warriors like you."
I ease somewhat, though I am still unsure if I can trust him or not.
"Garrosh, it had always been my intent to serve the Horde in any way I can." I say to him slowly.
"Ahh, this is good Calmfury. Because I have an important task I need you to perform for me."
As he says this, we come to the cliff edge overlooking the sea. Far below us I see the frozen waters of the Sea Reavers run.
"Calmfury, there is a war coming with the Alliance, and we need to be prepared. We have worked hard to break the bonds of peace with them and soon our glorious Horde will be cheering from the towers of Stormwind."
An icy gust blows up from the sea once again and I can almost hear the voice of Arthas laughing on the wind.
"My Lord, what about Arthas?" I say to him cautiously. "Aren't we still at war with him? Maybe we shouldn't be picking a fight with the Alliance until Arthas is dead."
Garrosh's grin turns into a scowl. He licks the ice off his tusks and then snorts at me in disapproval.
"In my Horde" Garrosh continues "I have no room for those who would fail me. You know this more than anyone Tauren! We have to be mighty, honorable and without mercy as our people has always been."
I turn to face him. A sinister look washes across his brown face.
"Garrosh, what is this task you want me to do?" I ask.
With that, a sharp pain pierces my side. The breath goes out of me in an instant as my lung collapses in my chest. As I turn to face my attacker, I feel my legs stiffen up, and I fall to my knees at the cliffs edge. Looking up, I see the smiling face of a weedy little orc holding a bloody dagger, he is missing one of his tusks.
I reach out for the assassin to no avail, my arms go stiff and I fall flat on my face in the snow.
"Vengeance Tauren, this is vengeance for knocking out my tusk. Now you die!!" the weedy orc yells as he lunges forward with his blade.
With a swift motion, Garrosh grabs the little orc by the scruff and tosses him into the nearby snow bank. Then I feel his hands on me as he turns me over.
"My task for you Calmfury, Guardian of Cenarius is to die!! You have insulted me in front of my Horde and for this you will pay with your pathetic life!!" Garrosh yells in triumph.
It just so happens that when Garrosh turned me over my face fell in the direction of Meekha. I watch as she swings her wooden sword in a mighty arc, striking the training dummies shield. Then, she expertly ducks below the swinging pendulum. With a proud smile on her innocent face she turns to Slasherjoe and cheers. Then, she looks around to see if I was watching.
Her eyes fall upon me and I see her proud smile turns to a look of abject horror.
"Lets see how a druid works when he's been chopped to pieces!!" Garrosh yells as he swings his huge axe down. The razor sharp blade cleaves into my upper arm, severing it in one clean blow. Whatever poison I am subject to does nothing to ease the pain.
I watch Meekha as she screams in horror. Slasherjoe turns around to see what she is screaming at in time to see Garrosh cut off my other arm.
The pain is so intense I nearly black out.
Meekha pulls out the glowing dagger I gave her and begins charging across the field at Garrosh.
By the Earthmother no! Save us from this horrible fate.
Slasherjoe begins chasing after Meekha. It is then that I see the weedy little assassin pull himself out of the snow bank. On his face is the smug grin I recognize from the Alliance murderers I have fought. He draws his dagger and starts out for my little gruntling.
Just before he falls upon her I see Slasher cleave downward with his poleaxe, cutting the spineless assassin in two.
"Get away from my master you honorless dog!!!" my little Meekha yells out at Garrosh, holding her glowing dagger at the ready.
I feel my heart break
Garrosh Hellscream, Overlord of the Warsong offensive, sneers at the little Orc. "An honorless dog am I?"
With that Garrosh kicks me hard in the side. I feel several of my ribs break as my armless body rolls off the side of the cliff.
I fall for what seems like an eternity before hitting an icy outcropping in the cliffside. Whats left of my body is crushed as I slide down a slope. Then I come to an abrupt stop on a precarious ledge.
Here is the place I am to die, not as a hero of my people, but as a shameful and forgotten soldier who dared to question his leader.
I stare out at the merciless sea, as the icy winds of death howl in laughter at me. Already the scavengers, foul birds, begin to circle me.
I think that Thrall was right. Wisdom and mercy are the things that give a person true value. Sadly, it is too late to tell this to my poor Meekha.
One of the scavengers lands on the ledge. The wretched bird hops about for a moment and then pauses to look me in the eyes. Perhaps it is mocking me before it feasts on my flesh.
My eyes begin to darken.
"Fear not Calmfury, your story is not yet told, fate has something else in store for you" I look up to see the smiling face of Charibdys. The bird was not a vulture, but her in stormcrow form.
A portal opens up next to me. "I am taking you to Moonglade" she says as she pulls my broken body through the portal.
With what little strength I have I am able to whisper just one word.
"Meekha"
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