The Exodar Attack

Tensions were high in the Exodar ever since Kayaara set sail with the Echoes. It was obvious to anyone that Velen was under much stress, even if he tried to conceal it. Nobundo and the shamans were working harder than usual, and were not even taking in any training for the time. The worry only made the citizens of the Exodar feel worse, unsure of what was to happen, but it was obvious to anyone that there was definitely something up.

I Now Pronounce You, Part 3

I Now Pronounce You...Pt 3

 Previous chapter

Author: Riatcha

Note:  This is an alternate universe version.  Some characters are portrayed differently in this story.


They had both fallen asleep easily enough.  At some point during the night Atrophus awoke feeling part of a warm body pressed against him, an arm slung across his chest.  Somewhat sleepy eyes looked down to see that somehow Riatcha had mananged to work her head and most of her body in under his left arm and now her face was pressed tightly against side.  At first he frowned and trying not to wake her he attempted to extricate himself from her one armed hug, but she moved with him, not letting go.  After a moment he let out a sigh and lay still, allowing her to stay snuggled in against him, even going so far as to move his arm around her gently.  A few minutes later he fell asleep like that.


---------


Riatcha was in the main room, having set out the table for their breakfast and took a seat as Atrophus also joined her at the table with freshly made tea.  He watched her intently for a moment before speaking.

"Did your meeting with Triumvir go well?"  He asked.  He poured tea into both their cups; his a purple one, hers a dark green.  She nodded.

I Now Pronounce You... pt. 2

Author: Riatcha




Previous Chapter

(This story is set in an alternate universe.  Some characters are portrayed differently.)

Her staff strapped to her back and carrying her leather 'work suit' over one arm, Riatcha picked up the satchel of the rest of her belongings she had brought with her and stepped through the portal behind Atrophus.  Both were on their way back to the Exodar to; as Erusi had put it, enjoy their new life together.  After a moment it was as though she had just taken one step forward and she was standing in the Draenei city.  Atrophus was waiting for her, carrying a larger bag of his own things.

"Are you ready to see to getting our new quarters?"  He asked.  For a long moment she looked conflicted, but eventually she bowed her head slightly in agreement.

"It will get easier with time," he caught her gaze with his own eyes and she nodded, quickly looking away from him.

"I know," her voice was quiet, and he knew she was still unsure.

"It is this way," he headed in the direction of where the supplies were kept.  She followed behind him a few steps, her head bowed.  He didn't say anything until they arrived at their destination.  Where he explained the situation and what it was they required to the provisioner on duty there.  The female provisioner looked at the silent Riatcha behind him and simply nodded, seeing the matching necklaces they both wore.

I Now Pronounce You... pt. 1

Author: Riatcha

(This story is set in an alternate universe!)

Riatcha sat at one of the tables in the small library muttering something under her breath about Saaurnu while trying to write a note for Eudaimonia, explaining why she was leaving for the Exodar.

"There is no need to speak of Saaurnu that way, sister," Atrophus' voice spoke from behind her.  Riatcha turned in her seat to look at the tall Draenei.  He did not seem to be in any way upset.  She set her pencil down next to the scroll of paper and the large book on the table.

"Have you spoken to Saaurnu today?"  She asked him.  He walked towards her, limping slightly on his bad leg.

"No, I believe she has decided to join up with the other Echoes," he replied.  Riatcha sighed, leaning back in her seat.

"I see.  In that case can you explain to me what it is that married people do in Draenei culture?"  She watched him carefully.  He frowned, taking a seat and facing her.

"There are some books in my library on the Exodar that I would be happy to lend you so as you can learn about marriage customs, sister, if that is what you want," he answered, crossing his arms.  Riatcha sighed again, rubbing her finger and thumb against the bridge of her nose.

"You do not understand I think...Saaurnu did not...perform the rite of kinship.  She has told me that it was the rite of marriage, she said she was going to tell you..."  Riatcha trailed off, looking right at Atrophus.  His crossed arms loosened and a look of surprise crossed his face, before he frowned again.  For a moment he seemed unsure of what to say, his frown deepened.

"She did what?"  He finally asked.

The Wolf and the Dragon, pt. 2

Author: Erusi

An infernal charged through the formation of rams, swatting its fiery arms from side to side. The formation broke and some of the rams bolted. The descent from Ironforge gave the dwarven defenders momentum, but with that came a loss of control. They descended into a wave of Felfire, spewed forth from the invading legion ship above, some lept from the descent at the last minute and prayed for hope their ram would land safely, others threw themselves from their mounts. Those who charged, hoping that speed would carry them through were burnt alive, their charred remains not making it much beyond several feet into the inferno.

Some, had called upon the light to see them through and for a time it had carried their dwarven steeds and them to safety, enabling them time to prepare for combat. The dwarven paladins were few and far between, but their holy light was quickly targeted by the demons.

“They’re picking off those who wield the light!” Gahdoan flipped his visor up again, swatting an incoming fel bat out the way that looked much larger through his visor.

“They’re trying to whittle-” Aevah paused, hoofing a keg of Thunderbrew up at a demon and then throwing her sword through it. The demon caught the keg with a brief snort, but instantly grew silent once the blade pierced the keg, the liquid within and then finally it’s face. With an agility unbefitting her armour, Aevah went to run up the demon to pull her sword from it’s face, but only served to knock it to the ground with the force of a tombstone. Yanking her sword free she continued “They’re trying to whittle us down, protect the healers!” She swung her sword off to her right, similar to that of a club, slicing an imp clean in half.

Old friends

Author: Kayaara

It was foreseen for weeks, months by now. Not by Lexa herself, no, she never would have even imagined that these demons that she had tried so hard to run away from, to forget all about, would ever return to this planet, or back into her life. The doomsayers stood in the streets of Stormwind were the ones who were warning the people of a new danger coming to this world. Yet, who was going to believe them? Who would believe a group of naysayers, who were shouting on the streets of the danger coming to this planet?

Lexa was stupid to even leave her house during this time. She was only paying a visit to the cathedral, but strangely enough a doomsayer had made their way to the steps of the cathedral, a desperate and pleading cry being shouted at by the top of the short human lady’s voice.

“The Light has forsaken us!” She screamed, and as Lexa began walking up the steps, around this crazy woman, said woman turned to face Lexa, and shoved a pamphlet into her chest.

Now, Lexa had always been told ever since these doomsayers arrived that she should avoid eye contact, and stay as far away from them as possible (“You don’t want any of your old… Tendencies to show up, now do you dear?”), but this one was just. In the way, when all she wanted to do was get through to the cathedral. How they were even allowed to stand there was a mystery to the girl.

The Wolf and the Dragon, pt 1

Author: Erusi

Thunderbrew Distillery,

Kharanos,

Eastern Kingdoms.

Three weeks ago.

“Another three please.” Aevah raised a finger towards the bartender and then to her newly emptied mug. She slid a few silvers towards the other side of the bar and smiled, her hair didn’t have the best of appearances since her helmet’s removal when they entered. She clasped all three by their handles and headed back to her table.

“Combat training with the dwarves is quite unique.” Peacekeeper Gahdoan sipped at the new drink and leant back, the chair creaking beneath him. He raised the glass with a grin at the bartender and then nodded at Aevah. “But this...this is something else.”

“I know right!” Provisioner Hahfmood smiled from tentacle to tentacle at the sip, “It’s something to do with the hops they use.”

“It tastes like they use their steam engine fuel instead of water.” Aevah grimaced, but sipped anyway. “It’s a good job we’re not needed until tomorrow morning, I feel I may need this time to clear my he-.”

The distillery rocked hard at the sound of an explosion outside; by the thundering of the walls and the vibration in their chests it seemed as if it was right outside. “Armour up!” Hahfmood barked, grabbing his hammers. Gahdoan lifted up his his mace and shield from the floor and Aevah grabbed her swords. They went for the door to be met by a wall of fire, Gahdoan raised his shield and jammed the base into the ground. Instinctively the other two ducked behind him to both hold him steady and protect themselves against the fire.

“I think not!” Came the cry from the other side as the infernal took a harpoon through the chest and was dragged backwards. It’s reaction was nigh on priceless as it took a series of cannon blasts from the Kharanos defenders before falling to pieces. The three Draenei spread out onto the road and began assaulting the smaller demons with a flurry of blades, maces and skill.

“Incomi-” Came the cry from a dwarf who buckled under one of the showering fel meteors. His garbled cry drew the crowd’s eyes upwards to the ferocious sight of impending doom. Demons blessed with the ability to fly came swooping down towards them, clasping at defenders, dragging them into the sky and then tossing them back towards the ground below.

“Gahdoan, Hahfmood, sky-toss now!” Aevah dropped her swords and ran for the pair as they grasped at either end of Gahdoan’s shield. She leapt up onto it and in one well-practice move was thrown upwards, at the peak she leapt from the shield into the air, arms extended. The momentum of the falling dwarf forced her into a mid air roll as she caught him. Wrapping herself around him she hit the ground hard, but tensed up to take the blow herself. At the end of the roll she pushed him away, winced to her hooves and hobbled back to her weapons. To her dismay, for the one she had saved, four were not. Gahdoan had caught a gnome in one hand, but Hahfmood had fumbled and missed catching a human, he looked down in dismay at the crumpled corpse that lay near his left foot. “We cannot defend against this.” He added.

Aevah spun, tossing one of her swords out; pinning a Fel Bat against one of the roof barrels of the Thunderbrew Distillery. It let it’s prey go onto the roof and the dwarf dropped to the roof with a sigh of relief, Aevah huffed, she clearly wasn’t getting her sword back anytime soon. “Ironforge must be sending reinforcements!” She shouted towards Gahdoan, “Can you see anything?”

He dropped his engineering visor down and looked towards the mountain. “Reinforcements are on the way!” He flipped the visor up and clapped his mace and shield on an incoming imp. “We need to hold on.”

To be continued...

Nairii: A New World, A New Path

Author: Rick

It had been some time since Nairii had joined the Echoes on their trip back to Azeroth, unlike the other Echoes who were returning home Nairii was leaving hers. Draenor, her home, she had seen it decimated by the Iron Horde and the Fel-Legion, had lost loved ones and all that remained of her childhood homestead was fel-scorched rubble. She had lost everything, although as she learned more about this alien world was thankful that her Draenor had been spared the almost total destruction of this worlds Outland's.

She had split off from the Echoes early on, eager to find her place within this magnificent new World, she spent much of her time studying the history of Azeroth, the Outlands and the Burning Legion. Her self-inflicted sojourn away from the Echoes wasn't entirely to learn, she had felt great loss with the passing of Consul Mahdaan, a true Vindicator and wielder of the light, she had warmed to him quickly and admired him both as a mentor, warrior and most importantly a friend. She still saw him sometimes in her dreams, ethereal and glorious, stronger with the light than most souls she had seen walking the path to Auchenai. He appeared in his prime, younger than when Nairii had known him, dressed in his familiar Justicar armour hefting his mighty Hammer with ease, he would talk to her although she could not hear his words, she longed and struggled to make them out but they were like rain drops upon the Ocean. Somehow she knew or felt what he was trying to say though and as such she had set off for Stormwind.

Saaurnu's Battle

(Theme Music Above)


Author: Taarhal

Saaurnu stood upon the hill, the legion ships were overhead, fel energies bombarding down into the town of Westfall, people were running in panic, running for cover. Others were preparing to fight, all races had come, humans, night elves, orcs, trolls, draenei, differences forgotten. A common enemy bringing all together.

The Journal of Tarnalia

(theme music above)

Author: Taarhal

Day 1
So here it starts, the Legion have returned, it was foretold but even when you expect something it still takes you by surprise, I guess that’s the thing with seers, they tell you things will happen just never when or quite how they will come to pass.

But for all she is Taarhal means well, shes crazy as the day is long but she has seen things over her long life, things I would have no wish to see, maybe she’s even seen how she dies, I’m no seer and I have no understanding of how it works or how magic works. All I trust in is my weapons and my strength to destroy my enemies and serve the Holy Light and our people.

So we came together, the Echoes, some I had met already, some I had not, a calling, a mission to track down five demon lords that betrayed all that they stood for and now seek to kill us all and destroy our world, or the world we now call home.

I believe in the cause they serve, Taarhal believes in the cause, I am not wise, but I am strong, strength should be directed where it is best used and Taarhal tells me I will be needed so I will serve and lend my strength to the cause for that is all I have to give and so I will give it.

Our last night in Stormwind, it’s strange as while the place is not home it did feel as such for a while, since meeting the Shas`tans, serving under Vaerhal, fighting at her side, good times.

Much smashing the skulls of our enemies, fond memories of those I leave behind, but if it is to be the last time I see the city so be it, I can not dwell in the past and I cannot sit by and wait for the Legion to roll into the city and take it. So I must fight, and fighting is what I know, have always known, and what I am good at.

To Smashing of the Demons, For Argus, For the Echoes!

To Hold in Your Heart

Author: Kayaara

It was a night like any other; peaceful. Azuremyst Isle always had that sense of serenity, a sort of calmness that Kalaru just couldn’t get anywhere else in Azeroth. Of course, Azuremyst had been what Kalaru has had to call home ever since the crash, but despite that, the place almost reminded her of her old home in Shadowmoon Valley.

The only thing missing now was her sister.

Nobody

Author: Riatcha

(Timeline for when the Draenei arrived on Azeroth is pushed back a few more years than current WoW lore)

Carrying the leather satchel in one hand he strode down the hallway briskly, passing cells with a variety of occupants within he did not stop until he reached his destination.  Quickly and quietly he unlocked the door opening it wide and stepping inside.  He looked only at the one he had come for, ignoring the others in the tiny cell, he took the young girl by one arm.

"Come with me," he pulled her from the cell.  She did not resist him in any way.  He sighed watching her sadly for a moment; this was what happened to of those that the Forsaken held captive.  But he refused to be a part of this any longer, he had once been a paladin and a warrior for the light and of justice.  His own life forever lost to him now.  That did not mean he could not do his best to ensure his young charge never had the chance to make one for herself.  He guided her past the huge abominations guarding the entrance and a number of his fellow Forsaken, none of whom questioned him or attempted to stop him.  After walking for a few minutes more they finally reached the surface near the edge of what had once been a human village.  Here he turned to the young girl, holding out a satchel to her.  She shaded her eyes against the natural light that he knew she had not seen in years, squinting her eyes even though it was not that bright.

A Battle in the Past

Author: Taarhal

The bodies were heaped around the battlefield, it was an horrific sight, something Anorai had never witnessed before, this wasn`t her first battle, but this one felt different, it felt like this one they were losing and losing badly. She passed whole detachments of dead elves as she slowly advanced forward, they lay where they had stood, in deformed and crumpled piles, eyes no longer filled with life, but empty and devoid of who they had once been. She had passed many she knew, had known for thousands of years, the elf who had trained her to shoot, the friend she had spent long years playing with when she was a youngling, her tutor that had taught her the histories and lore of the world, the elf she had stood side by side with laughing and joking with not a week ago, now all dead, all taken from the world forever. The smell if anything was worse than the things she saw, you couldn`t block that out, couldn’t turn your eyes away from it, it was just there all the time…the overpowering stench of death.

Her gaze moved forward as she crawled through the mud and the blood and the body parts, her sister was a few feet ahead, edging herself forward and caked in the filth of the battlefield, they were the only two left from their scouting detachment, all the others had joined the dead, how she and her sister had survived she did not know, maybe it was fate, maybe it was luck, maybe it was just some cruel trick to torment them further before they too joined the dead.

The two elves crawled for what seemed like an eternity, pushing on through the filth and using the heaps of bodies as cover when they could, after a time they came to a ridge that dropped away to a flatter plain below, the world tree was visible from here, it was surrounded by demons, assaulting it from every side, Fel energies crackling out at those trying to defend it.

“Rai” her sister spoke softly as she looked back to her position “move around….to that ledge over there….cover my flank as I move down”

Anorai motioned that she understood and started to move to the indicated spot.

Her attention was drawn to her left by movement, a group of figures stood in a dip, they seemed at first glance to be Kirin Tor mages….but as Anorai focussed her keen elf vision on the group they seemed to blur and shimmer, Anorai glanced right to check on her sisters progress, satisfied she was safely in position, Anorai crawled closer to the group so she was just able to pick out some words

“A blue scale….” She caught the words on the wind, something about dragons they were discussing something about dragons…. She peered down at the group, the more she looked the more it all looked wrong. They shimmered as if in a heat haze of a hot summer day, she concentrated more, staring at the faces….the shimmering seemed to fade, but to be replaced not by mages but …. She had not seen such creatures before…they had horns and tails and hooves… and were displaying a tabard she was not familiar with.

She studied the group for a while longer, memorising the faces, but as she watched one of the group seemed to cast some kind of spell and a portal opened, each of the strange creatures vanishing into it….and then silence….no trace of them, it was as if they had never been there at all.

Visions of a Seer (Part 2)

Author: Taarhal

Vaerhal sat behind her large desk in her study, books and scrolls piled up around her, Taarhal and Tarnalia sat opposite.

Taarhal glanced between her sister and Tarnalia, noting both still had their armour on and weapons close at hand “Do you two both sleep in your armour?”

Vaerhal and Tarnalia replied almost together “we like to be prepared”

Taarhal smiled a little, thinking the two of them made a perfect paring, so devoted to duty and doing what needed to be done.

“Yes yes, being prepared is good……so what are we to do about what I have seen?” Taarhal fixed her eyes to that of her sister.

No Rest at Wyrmrest

Author: Erusi

Wyrmrest Temple

Dragonblight

One Week Later

The temple had been kept in check since they knew not when, guarded over by the various flights and a regular presence of all but their own flight. Maren and Aben spoke with one of the guardians, discussing their tale and pleading for support. The windy precipice upon which they stood gave them full surveil of Dragonblight, and brief glimpses into the neighbouring climates.

“We have not seen many a Blue in this temple since...well, in quite some time.” Cielstrasza commented, reviewing her records. “Kalec made record of his journey to the Kirin Tor, but Dalaran makes no mention of his attendance at last check.” She gazed from her records towards Dalaran, it’s spires barely visible through clouds and peaks beyond.

“The beacon atop the Nexus was ignited not one week ago was it?” Ciel gazed at the two of them. “Perhaps you met a few of your brethren there?”

“We were there” Aben commented, looking down at Maren’s bandaged but nearly healed hands. “But it is Kalec we seek.”

Confided

Author: Kayaara

“Your sister is kind of scary.”

“Really? I don’t think so – she’s just… Wary of other races, I think. We’ve only ever had each other, and I know she’d hate it if something ever happened to me.”

“I just… I have a feeling she doesn’t like me, you know?”

“Even if she doesn’t, I like you.”

The Night After

Author: Kayaara

The night was cold, and the streets were calm in Stormwind. The dimly lit roads were almost silent, were it not for the rustle of the trees made by the gentle breeze, and the quiet footsteps of Lexa Carabell.

Her feet dragged behind her, hair a mess sticking up in all places and her eyes showed just how tired she really was. They lost the glow they once held, bags a contrast to her pale face. To top off the look, two curled horns sat on top of her forehead. The dark of the night was helpful for hiding from guards – she didn’t want to think about getting caught as she was – all she wanted to do now was go home.

Turning out from the Trade District into the canals, she almost bumped right into a patrolling guard. With wide eyes, she swerved around the guard, and ran down the path, all the way until she was across the bridge leading to the Cathedral District. She didn’t dare to turn around; afraid the guard noticed her head, and she was so close now. Only a few more steps, just a few more, and she could finally collapse.

The Communion

Author: Janna

Night had fallen. The last glow of the sinking sun soon was swallowed by the thick mists which had crept silently from the moist earth. And yet, the jungle of Feralas never slept. The cries of the night's birds echoed through the dark and the rustling of bushes spoke of small and large mammals rising from their slumber. Somewhere in the distance, the dull beating of a drum started up and continued to pound the same hypnotic rhythm without breaks. The very fabric of reality seemed to thin, and the soft night wind carried whispers from another world through the trees.

The hour of spirits had arrived.

The old Troll rose to her feet and slid the voodoo mask over her face. Slowly, her step unconciously in tune with the distant drumbeat, she walked back into the cave. The small space was lit by the flicker of six candles burning with blue fire. Everything was prepared: the large sigil, drawn upon the stone floor in her own blood. From the ceiling, she had hung the vital organs of a foe she had slain in ritual earlier – one above each candle. The scents of death and incense intermingled to a sweet aroma that made a muted extasy swell within her chest.

Without delay, she began the ritual of communion.

The Things We've Lost

Author: Janna

You don't know what you've got until you lose it.

Such an old, deadbeat saying. But Eudaimonia, and too many of her Draenei brethren, knew its meaning only too well. If only she had known the hardships her life would bring, she might have appreciated so many more things the way they deserved to be appreciated. Her parents, for instance, or their home in Shattrath. Oh, how she regretted not having known the value of their peaceful life until in one violent, horrible night, it was gone forever.

Those days were long past now. Sitting here now as she did, in her workshop deep inside the Exodar, watching her two assistants bowed over their own respective projects, she let out a contended sigh. Yes: this was where she wanted to be now. Not on the battlefield, where fate had carried her. Not by the side of her dying companion – Mahdaan, another person she had not realised was important to her until his tragic departure. Leading the Echoes into Draenor had been an adventure, for sure. Reluctant to take on the role designated for her, she nevertheless had had high hopes at the beginning of their expedition. Then everything fell apart, yet again.

War was an ugly thing.

Visions of a Seer

Author: Taarhal

Tarnalia spun her double handed axe in a sweeping arc, slicing clean through the two charging orcs heads like they were butter, the bodies falling to the ground still twitching, seemingly still confused that the heads that had been controlling them were now flying through the air.

The muscled Draenai looked around, aware her travelling companion was no longer fighting by her side as she had been moments before, she cursed under her breath as she spotted Taarhal standing motionless some 20ft behind, a fact that had not gone unnoticed by the remaining three orc raiders that were closing the gap to her.

Tarnalia bounded forward, rapidly closing to intercept the orcs, her superior height and strength giving her the edge, the first orc reached Taarhal, its sword coming down to cleave her skull in two, but Tarnalia arrived in the same instant her huge broadsword deflected the orcs blade it in a shower of golden sparks , then she spun on her hoof, slamming her weight into one of the other orcs to send him sprawling into the mud, and burying her axe in his companions chest. A few moments later and the other orcs joined the first, dead upon the ground.

Shadow of the Beacon

Author: Erusi

The beacon roared, the searing light scratching at the sky. It’s width and power lit the heart of Coldarra up in a snow white light, betraying the blue grace that normally covered this part of the Tundra. The call echoing to all corners of Azeroth, heeding that call, portals were opening up all around it, fellow blue dragons stepping forth. Aben and Maren gazed down from the top of Coldarra, having lit the beacon to call forth Kalecgos, their eyes drew to each of the portals checking for the one they hoped to call.

Suddenly the beacon cut short and the last of it’s light met the clouds before Coldarra returned to its normal blue glow.

“Aben!” Maren looked down with worry across his face. Darendrak below had pulled the core from the beacon furious in his expression, knew something was up but knew not who was to blame.

The two stepped off the platform and dropped a portal at their feet and then one further down, giving the appearance that they too had just arrived. Gracing a plinth with their footfalls, they gazed around as the other dragons either took their places or circled above entering from portals.

“I know not who has called us together,” Darendrak roared, “But treachery is abounds amongst our brethren.” His wings flapped hard against the cold air, buffeting those who stood below. “My order stands, dragonflight. I would have you seek out our power. Restore to us that which ha-...” He paused and gazed at the gathering.

“Lendra,” He peered, “Where have you been?” She quivered slightly at his interrogative tone, “Tending the prisons. Daren.” She came back nervously.

He continued his peer, to an almost narrow stare “Stay after we have finished here.”

The Bogmoor Drake

Author: Mahdaan

From 'Songs and stories of Khaz Modan', translated from Dwarvish.

There was once near Dun Modr, a local mountaineer that had discovered the site of a destroyed dragon roost, but more importantly, an egg that was still intact. He took it down to his village of Bogmoor, and showed it to his dearest friends. After a week or so, the rumour had spread, and the dwarf’s neighbour came by to look at the egg. Then another one knocked at the door, and soon the whole village was in his living room, looking at the egg.

One of the dwarves suggested making an omelette with it, for the whole town to share, but another dwarf thought it would fetch a good price in Thelsamar. The dwarves argued over the mountaineer’s possession until he himself spoke up. “Me good lads an’ lasses, I’ve seen dragons and how they defend their nesting places. We are nae safe from red nor black, and we must always live with an eye to the skies. I was thinking we could do with a dragon of our own.”

All dwarves looked stunned as the mountaineer lifted the egg and placed it into his hearth. “I will hatch the egg meself and train the whelp, until it defends our home as its own. We will be safe and no bandit or drake will ever dare to threaten us.” The dwarves all cheered at their neighbour’s courage, all but the elder, who said it would be dangerous to keep a dragon, no matter how little. No one would listen though, and the mountaineer ended up stoking the fire to hatch the egg.

Weeks later, the egg finally cracked, and out came a little hungry whelp. The mountaineer cared for it every day, feeding it raw raptor meat at alarmingly increasing volumes. It didn’t take long for the little devil to fill up the entire living room, so he moved him outside. The elder protested a last time, but without success. The mountaineer had the support of the whole village, and he started dedicating his whole day to the drake, relinquishing his scouting duties.

The three Dragonslayers

Author: Mahdaan

From 'Songs and stories of Khaz Modan', translated from Dwarvish.

There were once three dwarves, living in a village in the mountains of Khaz Modan, overlooking the great Loch. Their names were Brom, Hewe and Ruhn. They were at a local brewery, drinking away the remaining hours of the day, when a message came that a fearsome drake had made its lair in the hills close by.

They vowed to kill the drake before it could permanently settle, for that would have meant the end of the village. The three, each skilled in some form of combat, immediately volunteered to set out to slay the beast. They did not care to call in the mountaineers, because they had had each other’s company for many adventures already.

Brom was a warrior, and he relied on his shield and a great axe, passed down to him for generations. Hewe was a hunter, skilled with a gun, and the fastest shot in the village. He never missed. Ruhn was a user of magic, and his tongue was as quick as Hewe’s triggerfinger. Together, they left before dawn, and headed into the mountains.

It took these experienced heroes just two days to track down the lair of the drake, and they hurried to trap it inside. As they rushed towards the cave, they did not see the shadow behind them. The great black lizard landed and caught the three off guard, and the laugh of the evil drake echoes throughout the area.

He was gleeful, because to a black dragon, a reputation counts. The more that try to kill you, the more powerful you are seen as. He was glad to be a threat, all by himself. He was cheerful even, because he had these three adventurers trapped at the mouth of his lair before they could even strike him once. So cheerful, he decided to play with his prey.

Of Goggles and Imps

Author: Kayaara

“Beltal, pass me my arclight spanner.”

The small imp stood up lazily from its seat, arclight spanner already in his hands from idly fiddling with it. He poked Taiream’s leg with it, and she took the spanner from his hands, quickly tightening the blue goggles on her workshop table. She mumbled a quiet ‘thanks’, and the imp returned to his seat, legs up on the armrest.

“He-e-e-e-y, Taiream. Are we goin’ out today?” Beltal asked – or more like whined.

Taiream squinted at the goggles, putting the arclight spanner down and picking up her gyromatic micro-adjustor, finishing off any final touches she needed to give to her new pair of goggles. “There!” She put them on over her hair turning the dials on the side until she deemed them at the perfect setting. “What do you think of them?”

“Yeah, yeah. Just as good as your last pair. We goin’ out or not?”

Picking up the tools scattered on the table, Taiream opened the draw below the desk and shoved them all inside. Then she gathered the blueprints set out and tidied them up and away in the draw just above the tools. “I’m glad to see you’re as enthusiastic as ever about my new creation. Well – I was planning on going out. I wasn’t going to take you with me.” She walked over to her small wardrobe, picking out a simple black shirt and matching black trousers, picking from the bottom of the wardrobe some fingerless gloves.

The small imp frowned, stretching himself over the seat, letting out the loudest sigh of frustration he could muster. “But why don’t ya want me to go? I helped make those new goggles of yours!”

Taiream’s bones creaked as she swapped her outfit, the sleeves of her shirt just short enough to show the decay on her elbow; not much, but her bones were clearly showing. It was the same with her shoulders – the bones broke through her skin, precise holes in the outfit she had exactly where the bones poked through. She patted her shirt down, turning to face Beltal. “Because. I don’t think you’d want to come with me today. I’m meeting up with some people.”

“People? I love people! I can go, can I go please? Do they got money? Are you getting some money from ‘em?”

“No, they don’t have money – not for you, anyway. Do you remember Alaeryn? I’m just catching up with her.”

Beltal sat up slightly. “The elf lady? Yeah, yeah I know her! She didn’t like me, whys you going to see her now?”

Taiream came over towards the small imp, giving him a gentle flick to the nose with a bony finger. He scrunched his nose in protest. “I wish you stopped being so nosy! She’s my friend, and friends happen to see each other from time to time. Maybe you should get some of your own.”

“I happen to have all kinds of pals, thank you very much.”

“Uh-huh.”

“I do!”

“Uh-huh. Now – I’ll be off.” Taiream headed for the door, opening it and taking a step outside into the cold, chilly air. She stopped in her steps and turned her head, jaw clicking. “Don’t make a mess.” Then she closed the door behind her. As she took her steps away from the small house, she was sure she could hear something clatter and something crash.

Watching

Author: Kayaara

“You can’t spend every day sitting watching the baby turtles, Venufii.” Akande let go of her mace, gently placing it beside the sitting pandaren while she took her seat beside her.

 The pandaren in question nodded her head, not turning to face Akande but acknowledging her anyway. It was always like this between the two of them; Akande would find Venufii at the Singing Pools, Yakkun tucked inside his shell just to her side while she admired the newly hatched turtles splashing about in the pools. Other days, she would sit atop the bridge and watch the budding young pandaren practicing on the balance poles until one by one they fall into the magical waters. Whatever it was, Venufii was always watching.

“I was at the training grounds today. I thought we said we’d meet up there.”

A shrug.

“If we want to leave this island one day, you can’t just sit here every day.”

Another shrug, this time she turned to face Akande. Her expression was a mix of wonder and amusement, if not some confusion.

“What is it?” Akande asked, knowing fully well she wouldn’t give her a verbal reply. Venufii rested a hand on top of Yakkun’s shell a silent sigh escaping her lips. She opened her mouth, as if she were about to speak, and then decided against it. She looked at Akande, frowning.

“Sorry… Are you going to do some training today?”

The mute pandaren shook her head slowly.

“Okay.”

Akande leaned her head against Venufii’s shoulder. The latter wrapped an arm around the shaman, pulling her a little closer to herself. The baby turtles were beginning to return to the land, the parents waiting patiently as they took their time to return to their homes. The sun was setting just behind the trees, beyond the vast ocean that surrounded the Isle and it glistened against the wet shells of the turtles.

It always made Akande wonder just how Venufii could spend her days sitting, watching the trees sway in the background; watch the clouds form into flowers and animals and even her favourite foods; or watch the baby turtles swim in the pools. But now, as they were together, watching together, she finally began to see the beauty Venufii had always seen. And she looked to her side, and watched the glint in Venufii’s eyes sparkle and her gentle smile and her hair falling over her shoulders.

And she decided that yes, maybe there was something about taking the time to just watch.

The Ritual of Synn (Part 3)

Author: Taarhal

Rowanne stumbled along behind the Felsteed, the bottom third of her yellow dress caked in mud , a large leather pack strapped to her back and an imp sat on top, pulling at her long black hair as she moved.

The girl looked up at Synn who rode the mount, looking all the world like a queen from her lofty position.

“ummm my love , do you think we could stop and rest soon, my feet are getting very sore, maybe it would have been better had you let me wear some boots instead of going barefoot….” Rowanne held her breath, hoping her words did not cause to much of an outburst from the succubus.

Synn looked back at the bedraggled girl following the Felsteed “really girl, I agree to take you out on an adventure , which is what you wanted and when I do, all you do is complain and whine, I don`t wear boots and you don`t hear me complaining about being sore”

“but…umm, my love…you have hooves and not feet, feet are much softer, and umm also your not walking your riding my mount”

“Oh…so its my fault, is that what your saying girl?, its not my problem that you have inferior body parts that don`t enable you to walk is it!, we will keep going another few miles then I may allow you a break, now stop your complaining and entertain me with a song”

Rowanne bit her lip, not wanting to anger the demon any further, and started to instead sing a rather vulgar song about drunk pirates at sea , much to the delight of Synn, but a delighted Synn was much better than a grumpy Synn, Rowanne thought to herself as she sung the words, words a lady of her noble upbringing really shouldn’t have been uttering at all.

Why Turtles are Green

Author: Taarhal

Once long long ago in a distant land there lived two Draenei, they were sisters and one was a pretty blue colour with a very swishy thin tail and the other was taller and not as blue and had a much fatter tail, but they loved each other very much.

The two Draenei journeyed together far and wide across the lands, stopping to study the wild life, or sniff the flowers or when they got very smelly to take a bath.

One day they came across a very large and wide river, the waters were running very fast, fed from the distant snow capped mountains.

The two Draenei stood upon the river bank looking across at the tree lined slops beyond

"What are we to do?” The fat tailed Draenei said to her sister

One Final Goodbye

Author: Kayaara

Lyra walked down the path towards her small home. In the front garden, a pandaren with long, ginger hair pulled into a plait dotted with pink and blue flowers, knelt down in front of an arrangement of flowers. Grinning to herself, the young warrior gently placed her sword down on the path and tip-toed towards the other, until she was directly behind her and put her paws over her eyes.

“Tashya, come on. I need to finish watering the flowers!” A rather grumpy Akande moaned, leaning back into Lyra to get away from her paws.

Lyra laughed, removing her paws and looking down at her older sister. In return, Akande gasped and her eyes widened. She turned herself around and stood up, embracing her sister in a tight hug. “Lyra! I was wondering when I’d see you again. It’s been what, a week since I last saw you?”

“Well if you’d have come home from training too you would have seen me. And stop acting like it’s been ages!”

“I can’t help it, Ly. I’m just so happy to see my little sister! Now let’s go inside, mama is finishing dinner up so you can tell us about your day over some rice buns.”

The Fist of the White Tiger

Author: Janna

The view that stretched out before him when he exited the Temple of Five Dawns was breathtaking. The afternoon sun bathed the lands below in a soft golden light that made the ponds and brooks, the paved paths and the roofs of the villages glisten with splendour. The young pandaren's heart was swelled with joy and sadness all at once. The events of the past few days had yet to fall into their proper place within his memory; as for the moment, his thoughts were scattered without a thread. Images would float by before his mind's eye of his old Master bidding him a last farewell in the wood of staves, of the blood (so much blood) gushing forth into the ocean from the wound the explosives had torn into the land. Images also of his friends, patting his shoulders and smilingly offering words of comfort.

Yan Yong dabbed at his eyes with the furry back of his paw. He mustn't show weakness, now that his great day had finally come. Descending the temple steps, his eye was drawn again to the lands below. As he would always do he searched the roads for lamplighters who were going about their business ensuring the street lamps would remain lit despite the heavy winds and rainfalls they had become used to as of the past few weeks. Most of the lamplighters were family. The Goldenglows went back many centuries and perhaps longer still. All of his family members took up the honourable trade as they reached maturity; all but himself.

Uncle Gao

Author: Mahdaan

“We call it wanderlust,” uncle Gao said. “It is in our blood. Ever since Liu Lang gathered any who would rather travel than stay within the safety of home, we have all shared that bond. There comes a time in every wandering Pandaren’s life when they feel the call to explore.”

Chin Su pulled a sceptical face and looked from the temple of Five Dawns to her uncle. “Even my father?” she asked in unbelief, about the man who was so dedicated to his comfortable chair, his noodles and his evening pipe.

Uncle Gao let out a hearty laugh that shook his whole body, so he held on to his large furry belly. “Yes, even your father. I remember well how he explored a tropical peninsula with some friends and came back with a sort of fruit we had never seen before. How else did you think he got your mother to like him back? He was quite the daredevil too, back then.” Uncle Gao’s story faded in mumbles about the excellent brew they had made with the precious fruit.

Chin Su had this special bond with her uncle, perhaps exactly because she always felt that her father was much different from her. It had been uncle Gao who told her when she was just a cub, that the Wandering Isle was in fact a massive turtle on whose back they once climbed thousands of years ago. It was uncle Gao’s iron shield had inspired Chin Su to make her own, out of string and an old bamboo basket. Both times, she had looked like this, in wonder and curiosity.

“Why doesn’t the turtle visit the continents anymore then?” she asked, although that wasn’t the most burning question Chin Su had. She really wanted to know why her father had shown so little support when it came to her need to explore and find adventures, but she was about to get both answers from her uncle anyway.

“In our time, it used to be safer. The people across the world now don’t have the same welcome for travellers they showed us back then. They now wage war, for land and riches and to conquer all that is strange to them. The masters agreed to avoid the shores of Azeroth for the time being.”

Chin Su’s curiosity made way for indignation, and she challenged uncle Gao with her eyes, to which he responded with a warm smile and a cryptic explanation: “Can you blame the parents to worry for the cubs? Can you blame the crane for running from the tiger?”

“I’ll be a tiger myself!” Chin Su exclaimed, and straightened her back, then struck a blow in the air, clumsily, but passionately all the same.

Uncle Gao chuckled again, then pushed himself up by his staff. He took the time to scratch his face and then greeted a passing lamplighter with a half bow before turning to Chin Su again. “I don’t doubt it, little one,” he said as he glanced at the rising sun the great turtle was swimming towards. “We better get going, or you’ll be late for your first day at the Academy.”

The Road to Karabor

Author: Janna

approx. 600 Azerothian years ago, Shadowmoon Valley, Draenor

From afar, theirs looked much like any small procession of pilgrims: there were women and men clad in robes and striding in quiet thought and a small number of Elekk burdened with their possessions. At times their voices would ring across the hills as they accompanied their step with hymns of faith and hope. And yet, Atrophus thought, once an observer would be near enough to make out their faces, they would recognise their mistake; these were no mere pilgrims, and their plans were far more substantial than to engage in prayer upon reaching the holy site. The robed figures would reveal themselves as a group of arcanists, wearing not only the traditional garb, but also the jewelled accessories which mark those of the highest skill and learning. Amongst them, others were walking in more practical dress and outfitted with stacked tool belts: artificers, and again they were picked by their rank and name, even though one might not have guessed such from a first glance.

He walked at the rear end of the group, leading one of the animals by its reigns. The animal did not strictly speaking require his guidance, but it allowed him to ease the weight he placed upon his left leg. It was a long road from Shattrath to their destination, and they walked many hours each day. They were getting close now, and he did not wish to slow their progression by asking for a break, thus he had no choice but to silently bear the sharp pain that would erupt from his left knee and flare through the whole limb at every step.

“Why so frowny? Is this not a fine day to walk these beautiful hills?”

Two Days Later

Author: Erusi

Erusi had been circling Kalimdor for days, venturing below the cloud cover often she even

swore sight of the wandering isle at some point. There was no taste of blue dragonflight

magic in the air and her eyes brought her no further information, if Kalec was near he was

not using the magic she had known her flight to use so easily.

She drew a claw up and stretched her talons out, pulling a swirling mist of energy from

nothingness. Flicking it forwards it formed a portal that kept pace with her, bringing into focus

the sight of a dragon high over the Eastern Kingdoms. “Aben, any leads?” She spoke,

turning her head to the portal but keeping a steady pace.

Aben had set down atop one of the peaks in the Hinterlands, “No Eru, I have scoured the

plaguelands and the forsaken’s lands and found no sign of him.”

With a twist of her claw the portal split in two and a connection to Maren was formed.

“Maren, yourself? Any sign?”

Maren seemed almost emotionless, and simply shook her head. “There is nothing in

Northrend. This is a waste of time.”

“Where else should we look? Wyrmrest held no record of his departure, let alone his

journey.” Erusi turned her head away from the portal to look down upon the now flooded

thousand needles region.

“We could use the beacon?” Aben was at this point nigh on hugging the mountain as the

wind battered his wings. “Summon all of our flight, at which point he must return.”

“I wanted to be subtle, to speak to him in a private setting where such formalities would not

be required. Daren will have first say if we do such a thing.” Erusi pondered.

It was the first time that Maren had shown a smile on this journey, let alone any other emotion. “He could be distracted. His gaze drawn from the skies, whilst the beacon is

ignited.”

The Ritual of Synn . Part 2

Author: Taarhal

Rowanne struggled across the courtyard with the large rock and dropped it onto the pile with a loud thud, a bead of sweat trickled down her forehead from her soaked black hair and dripped to the ground.

“Umm why am I doing this again my love?” Rowanne looked across at Synn who was sat with her hooves crossed on the courtyard wall.

Synn smirked before speaking to Rowanne in a sarcastic and overly important voice “Foolish little girl, you are moving the rocks over there, so that tomorrow you can move them back again, is that not very obvious for your puny little brain to understand?”

Rowanne walked back to the pile on the opposite side of the courtyard, lifting the next rock up, holding it against her rough sack cloth dress, the dress or rather sack with arm and neck holes cut in, that Synn had insisted she wore for the task.

“ummm yes s..sorry my love, its just there doesn`t seem to be…..a lot of point to it” Rowanne panted as she moved back across the courtyard with the rock

“Of course there’s a point to it silly girl, the purpose is that its amusing me to see you do it and as you are bound to me now…your purpose is to amuse me when I want amusing, or are you not content with that purpose?”

Rowanne dropped the rock onto the pile and turned, smiling nervously at the smug looking Succubus “oh..no…I mean of course I`m happy doing it if you want me to, its just….ummm when I summoned you, I thought it would mean I could find some adventures, and see the world and not be stuck in the house all day….like I was….before”

Synn tossed her head back and let out a shrill and cackling laugh, her folded wings twitching. “oh that’s funny, yes you do amuse me my dear, hmmm so you want an adventure do you, you want to get out and see some of the world and use your new found powers that i've allowed you to learn”

“Umm yes my love, if it would make you happy, I would love to go out somewhere…..please?” Rowanne fluttered her eyes at the demon looking hopeful that she would agree.

“hmmmm very well girl, an adventure may be amusing, go saddle your pony, oh and change into that pretty yellow robe I had you buy, and gather some rations…..and unlock the imps from the cage”

Rowannes smile spread as she listened “yes my love, oh thank you so much, i`ll go do it all now, and I promise it will be fun for you”

Rowanne started to hurry across towards the house to start gathering the items she would need

“Oh and girl?” Synn snapped out after her

Rowanne spun and smiled back “Yes my love?”

“Please clean yourself up and put some perfume on and try and look a little less like a swamp rat before I take you out, I do have standards for my pets”

“Yes of course , I will, I will look pretty for you my Love”

Synn watched the girl run off into the house and chuckled to herself, such an easy piece of meat to control she thought, and i've only just got started on her, so much more fun that being bound to a filthy orc warlock….oh yes so much more fun.

The Awakening pt. 2

Author: Kayaara

As the white forest began to make its way over the horizon, the elf quickened his steps, the human following. Only until they took a step forwards across the border of the two lands did they stop, the elf taking a deep intake of breath (not that it was too important anyway), looking to his left and exhaling. To their side a small camp was formed, makeshift tents and a small fire in the middle. There were about five people – none of whom she knew but they were dressed the same way and her new companion seemed to know them. He looked at her, nodded, then started towards the camp, the human following behind.

As soon as the two approached those at the camp stood up, watching their movements. Upon noticing the elf’s face, they stopped and got back to what they were doing before. They entered the camp and the elf sat down in front of the fire – the human merely followed. Quickly the rest of the Death Knights joined them.

“I’m Eldorath. I found these people after the battle; they’re safe.” The elf – Eldorath – mumbled, his helmet lying idle to the side of him.

The human coughed, reaching up to take her own helm off leaving her blonde hair. She was also pale – not in any way surprising – and most notable, a scar ran from just below her right eye across her nose and finishing at the bottom of her lip. “Valsey Ca-“she paused, then started again. “Valsey Carabell.”

Sisterly Love

Author: Taarhal

The arrow sliced through the air and thudded into the orcs chest with pin point accuracy, followed swiftly by a second arrow that hit in almost the same spot as the first, the orc beside him, looked at his companion then howled in anger as its gaze moved to the source of the attack, two night elves that were positioned on a shallow hill, who instead of being focussed on him were seemingly now shouting at each other.

Rowethli turned to Anorai as the first orc slumped to the ground “I said i`ll take the tall one you take the shorter one”

Anorai shrugged “I did sis, I took the shortest you hit the wrong one”
“shorter, how was he shorter, he was clearly the taller of the two”
“well whatever Sis, from where I was he looked much shorter, maybe your eyes are squiffy, but just as well I helped you out anyway as your arrow was way off the mark”
“what!, off the mark, it was not off the mark, I hit him right in his heart!, just where you were meant to hit the other one, and I don`t have squiffy eyes!”
“well look hes clearly way shorter than the other one that you missed that’s now charging towards us looking a bit grumpy”

Rowethli whistled sharply as the orc closed the distance on his charge towards them, a large boar came into view, barrelling into the orcs path and stopping its onward progress

The green haired elf raised her bow and let loose another arrow towards the orc who was now in combat with the boar
Glancing over at her blue haired sister, who was now casually adjusting the laces on her tunic “Anorai…..are you helping or sitting this one out?”

Anorai looked over at the battling orc and his companions that were now charging towards the battle, then flashed her sweetest smile at Rowethli “Well Sis, I can help you if you really think you need it, but Oink and you seem to be doing just fine”

“Anorai!, will you please assist me in killing these orcs and stop being a brat!”

Anorai stopped fiddling with her tunic and raised her bow, notching an arrow to it and flashing another cheeky grin at her sister
“Of course I can help you sis, just try and hit the right ones this time”

The Funeral

Author: Mahdaan

It is a custom among dwarves to spend at least three days in silence, preferably alone, right before the funeral. On the last day, with the last rays of the sun, the ceremony is held. In this case, one member of his family and one of hers accompany the grieving partner to the burial site, as it was on the day of their marriage.

Yet Torgrimm walked alone. He made his way up the slope in his worn leather vest, clutching tightly to a wooden box of mementos that were to go into the grave as well. His thick fingers went white at the knuckles, showing the strength of his grip. As if holding on to it as fiercely as he did would somehow make her death less final. There were no tears yet. Torgrimm felt hollow, and no amount of tears would be able to fill the emptiness he had inside anyway. He wished he could cry his heart out, but without her there was no point.

When he arrived at the top of the hill, the sun just started sinking over the horizon, right above the small glimmering speck in the distance that was the Loch. The sky was painted purple and orange and pink, and for all the sadness that permeated the air, the birds around the burial site would not share his silent grief. The world around him was full of life, enjoying the last light of a warm summer’s day.

The Awakening

Author: Kayaara

There was no feeling at all. No sadness, happiness, anger. The part of her once full of rage, of despair and violence was now more of an empty husk. The need to kill, to inflict pain still ran through her body – that she was definitely sure of – yet without the will of the Lich King to sway her thoughts, they lessened, now a whisper in the back of her head rather than a pounding migraine stomping through her mind. She was dumped in the middle of the frozen lands of Icecrown, with herself as her only company.

Her last memories were of the Citadel – the Lich King’s Citadel – stormed by the heroes of Azeroth. Did she ever remember any of them from her past life? It was painful even trying to remember a life where she wasn’t slowly decaying; where she wasn’t a killing machine. She was lying down on the cold earth, arms outstretched and twin axes just out of reach. If she stretched just a little bit, she could grab them-

Footsteps sounded around the Death Knight, quiet but she heard them in the near silence anyway. They came closer towards her, until she could make out armoured legs in front of her, beside her axes where they stopped. She looked up at the figure from where she lay, not making any effort to sit up or fight back if they were dangerous. She was too weak to fight back anyway.

Showanna's Choice

Author: Janna

The wooden door gave a muffled creak, followed by soft footsteps from the room next door. Her mother who had been alerted by the sound entered the living room and greeted her with a warm smile.

“Welcome home, child. Have you eaten yet?”

The small, low-ceilinged space was lit only by the glow of a milky glass sphere sitting in the middle of the table, and the elves' silver eyes. Showanna shook her head.

“Not since noon. Is father home?”

“He will be here shortly. He is intent on finishing yesterday's order before he will agree to rest.”

Showanna nodded. She knew her father as a stubborn and hard working man, one who had earned the respect of the village without ever trying. His craftsmanship was admirable indeed; yet no such contemplation of his qualities could turn her mood in his favour at the moment.

“I will leave Teldrassil, mother.”

She held her breath after she had uttered these words. Yet her mother only indicated a nod. The older woman poured a vial of moonwell water into the silver basin atop their home altar, then bowed her head in prayer for a few heartbeats. Finally, she turned around to face her daughter, who felt regret rising in her throat. A pained crease had appeared between her mother's eyebrows.

The Day After

Author: Erusi

The day after the Echoes return to Azeroth

Borean Tundra

A bitter wind cut through the air against the wings of the blue dragon, she pushed herself up over it, teetering on the edge of the clouds. With the extra altitude, the Nexus broke the horizon in all its royal blue glory. With the rise of the Nexus came the beat of fellow dragons, as two escorts broke the clouds above her and matched their pace with hers. With a tilt of their heads they observed her rune wrapped horns and jewel adorned headpiece and gave what looked like a snarl, but toned match that of a smile.

“Erusigosa, it has been some time” Marengosa proclaimed, her head turning forwards.

Abenigos tucked his wings in and dropped down beneath Erusi, looking up. “What happened to your little adventures in Draenor? Get cut short?”

Erusigosa twisted her wings up and her tail down, attempting to swat at Aben. “Someone died,” She snarled. “I could not save them.”

The Ritual of Synn

Author: Taarhal

"My servant?"

"Yes girl your servant" Synn`s voice whispered in Rowannes mind

"But I don`t understand...whats wrong with my servant?" Rowanne questioned the demon, looking around the room to try and see where it may be stood, veiled as it often was under its phased enchantment. The woman thought for a moment she caught the glimpse of a shadow move near the window of her study, but as she focused her eyes to the spot, it had vanished again.

"I don`t like her...I heard her praying to the Light last night, I want her gone" The succubus answered.

Rowanne sighed softly "Shes been very loyal to me, but if you insist i`ll tell her I no longer require her services"

"No...I said I want her gone...as in gone..no more...dead....foolish girl, do not twist my words around or you will feel my wrath as I punish you"

Rowanne sat frozen in her chair , in shock and disbelief at what the demon wanted from her

The Secret Never Told

Author: Taarhal

Taarhal Shas`stan stood with her back to the older draenei, looking out across the wilderness beyond, the distant mountains glistening with the first white snows of the approaching winter

“Where will you and your sister go, here at least you have safety”

Taarhal remain with her back to the draenei as she spoke softly “safety…no…there is no place safe, always we are pursued, the legion look for us where ever we settle”

“That is a price we must all bear, they will always look for us, always, but for now at least we are hidden from them”

Taarhals voice softened slightly. “Shes asking questions….”

“What questions?” The old draenei moved a little closer

“About our parents….shes asking about how they died” Taarhals voice faltered as she ended the sentence

The old draenei sighed deeply “well you knew that this day would come, shes growing , maturing, its only natural she wants to know more…she had no real memory of them..she was too young”

Taarhal spun around her eyes glinting with moisture “And what am I to tell her?”

The older draenei moved to Taarhal, placing his hand upon her shoulder, looking into her eyes “The truth…you should tell her the truth”

Taarhal held the gaze of the draenei for long moments , then pulled away from him spinning back to face the window.

“No…I will never tell her that….She must never know….must never know…I will save her from that shame”

The old draenei sighed heavily again “The shame is not yours to carry, your father was head strong and foolish, he failed to look past the deceit and lies, you saved your sister, what more could you have done…you blame yourself when there is no blame”

Taarhal replied in almost a whisper “It is my burden, and I will not allow her to carry it too, I will protect her from that….forever”

“And how long do you think the secret will last…shes asking questions…sooner or later she will find the answers, sooner or later someone will tell her that her parents were not killed by the legion…but that they became part of it…what then?”

Taarhal spun around again, tears freely running from her eyes “That is why we must leave, that is why I must take her far from here” as she finished speaking she started to walk from the hall, moving slowly past the older draenei.

“Taarhal….” The old draenei called out after her, causing her to pause in her steps

“You cannot run from it forever”

Taarhal bowed her head slightly, clenching her fists hard “I must protect her, that is all that matters now” and with those parting words she left the old draenei alone.

Saaurnu`s Dream

Author: Taarhal

The dream was always the same, it started with a feeling of panic, then flashes of faces that she felt she should know but could not place a name to, then an intense white flash, her eyes burning from its power then screams and heat, and pain, incredible pain.

And then a sense of falling followed by blackness and silence, after a time broken by voices, seeming distant at first, then getting closer.

“Is she dead?”
“No no, look she is breathing still”
“We must help her, we are honour bound to help.”
“Yes yes, of course we must, can you move the wreakage over her, I need room to try and heal her wounds”
“Indeed, give me a moment”

Then pain again, intense pain that made her want to scream... and blackness…silence again, then faces, now familiar to her, Aunty Taarhal as she called her now, looking down at her
“Lay still, you will be ok yes yes you will, but the elemental spirits need time to work”
“wh…where am I, who are you, what happened?
“You are safe, I am Taarhal Shas`stan, and the big armoured one over there is Vaerhal, my sister”

A towering figure came into sight, dressed in full armour, that caught the reflections of the setting sun upon its polished surfaces and made it look like the towering Draenei was surrounded in an aura of light.
Aunty Vaerhal spoke, her voice filled with a sense of confidence and certainty
“You have been hurt, you were in a bad place on the ship when it fell from the sky, but you are safe now, we will protect you and help you, we give you our oath”

The dream that started with such feelings of fear and panic, replaced with feelings of calm, and peace and safety.

New Directives

Author: Janna

About:
This story is set before our adventures in Draenor. It details the events that lead to Eudaimonia becoming the First Consul of the Echoes.  I am not usually comfortable with writing major lore characters - but for the purpose of the Echoes being expressly an enterprise in Velen's name, I did so here anyway.

"The Prophet wants to see you", said Hekaan. "tomorrow at dawn." His face hardened as he met her eyes. He didn't continue, but it was obvious from his expression that he would have liked to reiterate his accusations from the previous day, when they had discovered her. His words had been crushing, yet now he remained silent, the look from his silvery eyes aimed unblinkingly at her face as if he was trying to break her defiance with his stare alone.

Eudaimonia felt her grip tightening around the gyromatic micro-adjustor in her hand, her thoughts racing as she stared back at the chief artificer. She could feel the heat of her forehead against the rim of her goggles. Her superior's condemnation only intensified the anger she felt about how she had been treated. She took a step back and pointed the screwdriver at his face.

"Don't give me that look", Eudaimonia said angrily. "There was no need to get the Prophet involved; you didn't have to report me. You of all people should know that I was acting as I did with best intentions, for the future of our people."