The Final Crusade

[Visca]

“We got him! We got him! Prince Kael’thas is no more!” As this voice traveled through Sun’s Reach in Quel’danas, a large crowd would start to form around a group of five people. “He escaped once, but not this time!”


Draco moved to stand before being halted, Voren’thal had come to the Isle today much to the Offensive’s surprise. “Sir… they killed—“

“He is but a pawn now.”

“Voren’thal? Are you sure you are feeling well? This is the enemy we, The Scryers, have been trying to bring down for far too long! And they killed him!”

“This… does not bode well. The Storm has hit in full.”

Draco looked concerned, he understood ‘The Storm’ more than most… he preached of it for sometime… before Leoren’s Trial… “Sir…” But before he could continue, they were interrupted by another Blood elf.

“We have the new reports. The plans seem more… aggressive than usual.”

Draco and the Seer looked at each other for a moment, before Draco did stand this time. “Very well, then. Seems we must tell our Dranaeic allies of the news...”

“Vis—Vis cannot be… Vis soon?”

“I understand the concern Vindicator, but it seems that yes, the War has reached the high point. According to the reports we have—“

“Three days?” The Dreanei said overlooking the report himself.

“Yes. Tell the rest of your Aldor kind, we have no time to waste.” Such was the way they still talked to others. Even in the Offensive, some issues remained hard to forget. Draco still received their taunts as well, so the feeling was indeed mutual. As he walked away, leaving the stunned Vindicator… too stunned to even pay attention to the faction comment… Draco would quickly activate his communicator, ready to page the elf he trusted most:

“Cerryan… the time has come. The Final Crusade is upon us.”


Behind him, the Shattered Sun Offensive would be working quickly, preparing to send their envoys to Shattrath. Much needed to be done. Far too much, and in such a short time frame.

[Vilmah]

"Three days."

Vilmah wasn't accustomed to listening in on other people's conversations, but the intensity of those words caught her attention. Sitting with a book open against the large steps, she glanced up towards the draenai who were conversing with a Blood Elf envoy. They spoke Orcish, which she supposed must have been their commonly used lanuage. It certainly was convenient.

"--war has reached a high point. According to this, there is no time to waste."

The orcess blinked. A high point? The Aldor certainly hurried about their business quicker than usual. Frowning slightly at this revelation, Vilmah stood and put her book away. Sanctuary had to be notified of the possible plunge into danger they would be facing.

[Keraph]

Cerryan sat at the edge of the landing above the Seer's Library, looking out over the glowing city of Shattrath. He would do this often, taking in the beauty of the resplendant Terrace of Light, when he wasn't off protecting his allies against the various threats to the world, the same friends that she once fought beside. He could come here frequently as of late, blessed with a temporary break in the fighting, a time of relative peace. Some said it was the calm before the storm, but in truth any rest from the wearying work of keeping the world safe was more than welcome. Things were not perfect, to be sure, but every step forward brought the world closer to blessed warmth of the Light.

"Cerryan...the time has come. The Final Crusade is upon us." The trinket around his neck, emblazoned with the crest of the Order of Eversong, hummed softly as he heard the words of his leader, his friend. The paladin stood, rising from his calming reverie. A look of determination fell over his face; he knew the meaning behind Draco's words. The time was soon coming to end the malaise that plagued his people, bringing them closer to their salvation.

As he headed towards his personal storage to obtain the arms and armor he knew would be needed for the coming storm, he noticed a hurried group of elves dressed in the armor of the Shattered Sun Offensive speaking quickly with many of the Scryers on the tier. Further away, on the Aldor rise, similar messages were being given. In short order, the Horde and Alliance both would be well aware of what was to come.

[Xaraphyne]

"Huh?"

Xaraphyne blinked over the edge of her mug before she put it down. One of her drinking companions, a scarred orc who had arrived in Booty Bay in search of mercenary work just that evening, only nodded in confirmation of his astounding words. Around them, the tavern was set abuzz with the news. The green-skinned troll to her left let out a whoop.

"'Bout time someone got that bastard! Bartender, the next round's on me!"

Xara leaned back, not picking her drink back up just yet. So someone had finally finished off Kael'thas. As the news sank in, it came with a flurry of new thoughts and considerations. So much would change. Ironically, two years ago she wouldn't've known who Thrall was; now she found herself considering how the death of the blood elves' former leader would impact the world. Not to mention doing that instead of getting blind drunk. The trolless grimaced and pushed back her chair to take her leave of the tavern, her drink unfinished and free round unclaimed.

There were people she had to find.

[Taknar]

Out in Nagrand, Taknar sat on a floating isle near the south east; his little corner of paradise. From below, no one would think anything of it if not for the deep throated cackling that carried through the air. He relaxed against a tree, his normally white robes stained with drops of fresh fallen blood. Following the trail of blood up from where it fell, an observer near by would be able to see the old troll conversing with a large humanoid head that he had stuck on his hand.

"Ah be bein' 'Ex Lord Mahlacross," Taknar bragged sarcastically while he played with his new puppet. "Be lookin' at dis troll, playin' tricks on da Loas. Be lookin' at dis troll, pretendin' ta be Taknah!" With a cackle and a spit, Taknar threw the head over the edge of the island towards the small Draenei village of Telaar. "Be makin' dis troll take da blame fa ya schemin' ways, 'uh? Ya be gettin' wha' ya deserve."

As he leaned over to watch the skull land on the ground, Taknar heard the sound of drums coming from the village below him. Cheers ran out and small forms danced among the waterfalls and the trees. Casting his conciousness downward towards a visible guard, Taknar was able to use his Mind Vision to hear the cause of the wonderfully excited, if horribly caterred, celebration. "The Blood Elf king is dead! The Naaru prepare to strike against the Sunwell! Victory is in sight!"

With a sigh, Taknar sat back down on the island. " 'ell, dat be bein' ah short break indeed." He got up to go, leaping off the island towards Garadar and the Wyvern that would take him to the front lines.

Now, if only he could remember where he put those light feathers...

[Pyrisath]

((text It looks like that, I think, Taknar. Just quote someone who has it, its what I did!))

Iricillian sighed softly at the news of Kael'thas' death. Ignorant of his Wretched state, he still remembered Kael as the powerful prince whom he had followed from burning hell to the cold north. Saying a quick, unanswered prayer that his soul may rest in peace, he stood up quickly and suddenly, disturbing the few mana-puffers near him.

Tossing the rest of his mana-thistle in his mouth and chewing it on the go, he took the Scryer's elevator down to the main level of Shattrath, where he took the uncomfortable portal-ride to Silvermoon City, and from there to his house within the walls.

Donning the plate armor that held so many bloody memories, he looked at himself in a mirror. He would now be fighting against the same demonic force he had fought before. Shuddering as images appeared in his head, he picked up his sword, then left to pack his backpack for another skirmish.

[Visca]

The flurry would be noticeable even from the air. Elf and Dreanei would be running from building to building, dodging the constructed Arcane Golems who kept their rounds.

Draco would remain in his grey-white armor, his blade at his side and his Shattered Sun issued shield on his back. He’d put the emblem he had just spoken through back at his belt, sighing as he closed his eyes, searching for peace. Kael’thas was dead. At long last, the traitor to his people had fallen. At the end of the war, the Order of Eversong… their goals would succeed. He smiled at this, to see all his work so close to fruition.

“Sir?”
Draco would open his eyes, feeling a slight burning sensation in them, before looking at the person behind him who interrupted his thoughts, his face serious again. “Yes?”

“We need you, sir.”
“Very well.” Draco sighed, before following the elf.

As he entered the room he was lead to he’d see a council of sorts. Dreanei and Blood Elf were the most prominent. But he could see a couple of the other races, to him they would all have to leave once Kil’jaden was dealt with, but that was neither here nor there currently.

The first to speak was a Blood Elf magister from Silvermoon, they had been converted to the side of the Shattered Sun when the Felbloods had come for their ‘visit’ in the Blood Knight Head Quarters “So, everyone has seen the reports?” There would be mutterings for a moment, all affirming this. “Good. Now that the traitor had been dealt with we—Visca! Come have a seat, I see you’re ready for the action already.” He smirked as motioned to the chair beside him. Draco reluctantly did so, still untrusting of the Magisters he had fought for some time now… “Where was I? Oh, yes, the Traitor has been dealt with, so we can expect some retaliation.”

“Retaliation?” A Vindicator asked, obviously annoyed with the pompous Elf as well.

“Yes, my big blue friend, you see… even though Our government has renounced him, certain loyalists have not. I’m sure they will want to avenge their fallen leader.” The Vindicator and the Elf looked at each other in almost glaring eyes; before the Dreanei could speak the Magister was talking again. “Obviously this could cause… complications. I am authorizing you to use deadly force against these scum as well.”

The Vindicator spoke up again, “Authorizing us?” A tone of anger could be heard in his voice, “We do not work for you, Elf. We are here by the Naaru.”

“If you say so… thing… But, you are on Sin’dorei land, and you will obey Sin’dorei law.” The Elves tongue getting sharper as well before his speech went into Thalassian, “Lawless ingrate” he smirked as he looked at Draco again.

The Vindicator was furious at this point, raising his hammer as he bellowed, “HOW DARE YOU SPEAK IN SUCH A MANNER AS TO ASSUM—“

A human would put his hand to his comrade’s chest, whispering “Light calm you, they need the example.”

The Dreanei would glare at his friend for a moment, before glaring back to the Elf, “Blessings on your family.” He spat out, obviously not meaning it as he walked out of the room. The amusing part being there was no family to this elf either… who scowled a moment, finally silent for once.

Draco took this moment himself to stand, he disliked this pompous fool, but he did have a point, they did have reason to suspect attacks before they began to summon the Eredar into their world. “Though Magister Sunward presented poorly, he does have a point. The war will heat up; we cannot simply send our forces into the Plateau. We will have to defend our position as well. We have less than three days to gather our strike force, equip them, deploy them, and to rally our troops in our defense. Much is needed to be done in preparation, I suggest we get started.”

Sunward apparently wasn’t done yet, “And I nominate Draco Visca to head the war effort.”
Draco looked over to the Magister, “Why?”

“You have experience in fighting something much bigger than yourself and succeeding. Do you not remember what you were before the Offensive? The Trial? Well orchestrated, and you got out alive. I’m impressed.” Draco opened his mouth about to protest, “Don’t try to be humble, it doesn’t suit you. All in favor?”

The Scryers were all in for him, the a few of the members of the Aldor planned on speaking out, but the Magister spoke before they could, “Good! Then it’s settled. Draco, lead your army.” Sunward got up and before leaving the room asked, “And your first order of business?”

“Arm the Wards, and stop the Wretched menace from interfering for once and for all.”

The Aldor grumbled as they left, Draco left there wondering what exactly just happened.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------



Sunward would be at his desk, writing his report when Magister Bloodsworn came in.

“So, was it a success?”
“Yes, he’s their general now. He’s sure to be a primary target of the Legion.”
“Good, good. Pitting the Traitors against each other… brilliant if I do say so myself.”
“Yes, Brilliant indeed.”

[Keraph]

Cerryan stepped through the portal to Quel'Danas, the safe, calming environs of Shattrath fading away, replaced by the chaos of an army preparing for war. Shouting from Aldor, Scryer, and adventurer alike mixed into a cacaphony of sound as orders were barked out, names were called, and perparations were made for the largest mobilization of the Shattered Sun Offensive since the initial sieging of the isle. One particular order caught the paladin's pointed ear, as two elven scouts ran by in a hurry, with directives to prepare the arcane wards around town, assigned by 'General' Draco Visca.

As he made his way through the hurried masses of soldiers, clerics, and arcanists, he stopped a passing elf, mage by the looks of him, and asked where he could find Sir Visca. "-General- Visca" he was quickly corrected, "is directing his troops in the center of town." Cerryan stood dumbfounded for a moment, giving the mage time to move by and continue his business. Confused, but driven by a sense of urgency, he moved to the statue and the center of Sun's Reach, and did in fact see Draco there, Shattered Sun soldiers taking his orders and following his commands with haste and complete compliance.

"You called for me, er....General?"

[Naheal]

Naheal decended the ramp from the portal between Quel'danas and Shattrath City. "Vindicator." He jerked his head towards a draenei. He didn't smile, just kept a solemn expression. "We're preparing. Please report to the center of town. We'll find someone who can help you." He nodded and continued towards the center of town, seeing a grouping of Scryers towards the center of town, as well as a scattered group of Aldor, many busy with their own tasks.

He looked to one of the passers by, not even noticing their Scryer's tabard. "Excuse me, who's in charge here."

"What? Like it's tell a traitor like you?" He spat on Naheal's Aldor tabard and continued on. Naheal sighed and shook his head.

We're not going to get through this if we don't work together.

"Vindicator Malastar." He jerked his head towards a Draenei. The draenei was speaking in draenei, very little of which Naheal actually understood. After a confused look, he began speaking in common. "General Visca is in charge. I'm certain the Aldor would be happy to have someone such as you to help out." Naheal nodded.

"Very well. Follow the general's orders as if they came directly from the Naaru. If I'm right, we'll need every bit of cooperation in this. Understood?" The Draenei nodded and saluted.

Naheal took off in a light jog, his orange crystaline armor gleaming in the hot sun. He approached Draco, giving a slight nod to Cerryan. He saluted. "General Draco Visca of the Order of Eversong, Vindicator Naheal Malastar of the Aldor reports as ordered."

[Visca]

Draco was facing mounted Shattered Sun soldiers; among them was one Blood Knight and a Farstrider, one human SI:7 operative, and a Kal’dorei druid. “These Wretched are destroying our wards as fast as we are able to repair them. Today, we take care of the problem. We have no time for their disruptions. Now, men move—“

"You called for me, er....General?"

“—Out?” Draco’s tone changing in the interruption, his face showing the determination he needed to portray in his position. Gladius’s youngest… and look where he was now; leading a full out war against an age old enemy of the peoples of Azeroth. As he saw who it was, his expression changed once again. “Cerryan! Good to see a friend at these times.” As he struggled to get back into his role, “I have something I need to discuss with you… later.”

As the two men were talking, another Elven Paladin would approach the general, giving a slight nod to Cerryan. He saluted. "General Draco Visca of the Order of Eversong, Vindicator Naheal Malastar of the Aldor reports as ordered."

As he heard the former ally, and saw the salute… he had very mixed feelings. On one side, he was proud that his, or at least in his eyes, former student had returned in a time of the Order’s greatest accomplishment… finishing the war they started. Another feeling was that of grief, this man had caused a lot of hardship when he left… Draco had not forgotten… Pride and Suspicion, this was a bitter sweet to see Naheal Malastar again. “Uther… give me strength.” He murmured before responding with a strong salute back, “Welcome Malastar. I am happy to see our Aldor allies have entrusted me enough to send their ranks amongst us.” He would have to watch this one… to ensure he didn’t try to stab him in the back again, but… he hadn’t tried in the Silvermoon Massacre after all.

Draco would clear his head with a deep breath as he motioned to them to get in the formation as well. “Back to the objective; these Wretched must be dealt with, as they are a potential hazard when we are in the middle of the battle. If not dealt with now, they may in fact turn the tide in our enemy’s favor in their insatiable need to feed on mana. We cannot afford this risk.” Beckoning his skeletal horse, he’d mount up, draw his sword and shield then his steed reared as he called, “All prepared?”

[Naheal]

Naheal moved to formation, whistling for his wolf mount. His expression still solemn, he spoke a prayer, "May the Naaru guide and protect us all. May those who still have light somewhere in their hearts find a path that we show them, and our blades find the hearts of those who have been consumed by dark." A few draenei nodded to the prayer. Naheal drew the Sunwell Blade to his side.

[Agnarr]

"Hunting wretched, eh?"

Agnarr Bloodmourne slid the shield granted him by the Shattered Sun collective off his back and on to his arm as he walked his talbuk closer.

"You'll have to excuse my entrance, but I was unaware that there was anything organizing here until I happened across this...gathering." Agnarr nodded briefly to Naheal.

"My blade and my shield are yours, should you need them." The Forsaken warrior brought his shielded arm to his chest, a plated fist covering his shoulder, in a salute.

[Visca]

“I have no issue with you joining us, Forsaken.” Draco smiled and nodded at the new comrade, biting his tongue at the Aldor Prayer… Being a member of the Scryers was impossible to forget, after all. “In fact, I embrace it. The more soldiers we have in this trying time, the better chance we shall succeed in the up-in-coming battle. Now, Move Out! And try your best to avoid Dawning Square, the later they learn about us… the less prepared they will be for our Judgment Day.”

“Sir! Wait! Before you go out… we need your party to do something else as well.”

Draco looked over at the approaching solider, a ranger from the Farstriders, “Speak, what do you need of us?”

“Take these, and regain our sentries.”

Draco would nod, “Very well. You heard her, men! Take a sack of the new cores and let us be out our way! For Quel’danas!” He hollered trying to keep the men rallied as much as he could, this was going to become a routine objective, sending men out here as much as he could… but, this one was to show that he too was going to fight the fight. He would be side by side with the men, as that was his philosophy when it came to the Order as well.

…All this ran through his mind, before his charge lead him to the first Wretched. Draco’s sword drawn and at the ready, the addict’s head would roll on the ground.

[Taknar]

Taknar stepped out of the portal that had been set up in Shattrath for the purposes of quickly getting to the island, and was greeted by an arrow shooting straight through his ear.

"Watch your head," a soldier had called out. "Don't you know you're in a war zone?"

Taknar raised his arm and prepared to lecture the young archer, but noticed that the archer had turned back to take more shots at the mounted flying attackers around them. Instead of pointing his finger in shame, he concentrated on the attacker that the archer was aiming at and closed his fist slowly. A flash of light from his hand came a moment later, followed by a pillar of fire engulfing the assailant, mount and all. The mounted elf instinctivly covered his eyes with his hands to ease the burning, allowing the young archer a clear shot at his neck. "Dat be bein' 'ow ya need ta be doin' it," Taknar told the archer as he jumped down off the platform that the portal rested on. "Don't ya be knowin' dat dis be bein' ah wah zone?" With a cackle, Taknar left the archer to continue the fight and headed towards the harbour and the small outpost located there.

After asking around at the outpost, Taknar was informed that he should find the general who had led a small foray into the forest to cut down the numbers of the Wretched there. It didn't take very long to find the group; they weren't exactly trying to be subtle. They were far enough away from the Legion's main forces that they wouldn't be heard though. Without a word, Taknar ran up behind the team and whispered a prayer to Zanza to help the soldiers endure. He could see faces now, and recognized a few of the pack. Nodding to Naheal and Agnarr as he passed, he walked up to the elf in the lead who he recognized as the leader of the Order of Eversong that he had healed during the fight to keep the Arcane Golems away from the citizenry of Silvermoon during Leoren's rescue. "Ya be knowin'," Taknar started off with a cackle. "Da last time ah be 'ealin' ya, dere be bein' some massive chaos followin'. Let's be 'opin' dat it not be 'appenin' ahgain 'ere, ya?"

Looking around and nodding towards the other Legion forces through the trees Taknar added, "Den ahgain, maybe dat be bein' da ahdea. Regardless, Taknah ah da Raven Cross 'nd Scryahs be bein' 'ere ta serve."

[Visca]

Draco was off his mount, the battle with the Wretched becoming easier to fight off his steed, and would look at the Troll that spoke to him. At first, his expression would be blank. Healed him? Chaos following him last time such occurred? Then he heard the next part the Raven Cross. Sir Leoren… though he was not a ‘Sir’ anymore… Evershine’s group. The time chaos followed him with them was when, well, they weren’t in existence yet. Did he mean at the Silvermoon Massacre?

“You do look familiar… was… was that you who aided me in the courtroom?” He hadn’t gotten a look after all; he had been too busy smashing golems with his shield! But, if it was… he owed this troll a large amount of respect. Something he would proudly give.

[Taknar]

"Jah mon," Taknar replied with a laugh. "Dat be bein' dis troll. 'Owevah, dat not be bein' important jus' now. We be needin' ta watch owa 'eads, ya?"

Taknar pointed forwards ahead of the group, where a line of golems were forming up. Someone had organized them to be a counter force, as normally they were simply loose among the trees and beaches of the island. He took out his hammer and vuuduu skull, and cast a protective bubble around Dracovista, Naheal and Agnarr.

"Da fight be bein' dere mon!" Taknar exclaimed as he rushed before the assembled golems. "Dun be lettin' dis 'ld troll be beatin' ya ta da front line!"

[Visca]

“Then, sir, I owe you my thanks. You saved me during that fight,” Draco would give a rather ridged salute, “I do hope you are prepared to do such again?” He smiled. Then, watching where the troll was pointing, he’d nod. “Very well. They will serve us well in the upcoming battle, no doubt!” Gripping his sword and preparing his shield, he would charge in the direction the troll was going.

[Naheal]

Naheal turned to Draco from his mount. "Sir, at some point, we're going to need to assault the Sunwell, itself. And, when we do, sir..." he patted the Sunwell Blade. "I feel I should go." Mu'ru... I'll end your suffering.

He closed his eyes and bowed his head. "I'm sorry, sir. I'm sure you already knew that..."

[Visca]

“We have three days. Three days until the summoning of the Erader. Three days until the invasion against our base of operations. Three days before whatever else the Burning Legion springs what they will upon us that we know not of. This is why we are preparing Now. We just received the news this morning.” Draco was frowning at this, slinging his shield now…

“But yes, we will need to send a force to end actually put a stop to their operations, do you believe yourself to be one of the few we should send in?” As the shield hit one of the golems, Draco would close his eyes to ignite it in holy power, focusing on Uther’s lessons… “If you truly believe so, then talk to the Drill Sergeant when we return,” As the shield pulsed with the Light, it would bounce off the golem to strike another, “He will be responsible for compiling a list for our strike force,” and then bounce to a third, “Now, look alive!” Grabbing his shield from the air, he would continue the charge to strike one of the golems, feeling his righteous fury pulse through him and his weapon.

[Keraph]

Cerryan followed behind, healing and blessing the fighters as they tore through the Wretched and golems. He spoke a soft, short prayer when the wretched fell, asking the Light to forgive them their destructive nature. One of his allies took a hard, debilitating blow to the chest, but almost as soon as it landed the wound glowed with light and closed gently. Cerryan channeled the Light with a trained, focused touch by now, his heavy ornamental armor and Naaru-blessed weapon a strong focus for his powers. Bloodshed was guaranteed to increase as the next few days progressed, but he was determined to protect anyone brave enough to fight against such blatant evil as the Legion, determined not to let their wicked grasp take the lives of those who fought in the defense of innocent people. That was his goal, and with the Light as his guide, he would not fail.

[Naheal]

Naheal nodded to Draco and took off on his wolf at a full gallop. He popped open his protected explosives pouch and redied a pair of Super Sapper Charges. Not caring about the Wretched or the Golems that were surrounding him, he continued to charge to the center of the group, where he was quickly becoming swarmed. He leapt from his wolf, Righteous Fury active, cleaved one Wretched in half, and concecrated the ground around him.

Within a few seconds, he turned to face the group that was before him and, with a smirk on his face, struck the charges against his explosive pouch, setting both off at once.

[Agnarr]

Seeing the explosion where the paladin was just standing, Agnarr knew that he would either need immediate help if any of the wretched or malfunctioning arcane golems survived the blast, or he would be perfectly fine inside his little glowing bubble.

Playing it safe, the Forsaken warrior charged into the cloud of debris ready to attack anything that might have survived, determined to keep its (or their, as the case may be) attention on himself.

[Visca]

The hit from one of the golems was hard, hard indeed… he should be more careful. To die before the Crusade was seen through would be a very poor idea. He’d look to see who had healed him just in time before seeing an explosion out of the corner of his eye. Great, alert the Dawnblades to give them time to prepare for the upcoming battle… Even though he clearly gave the order Not to… With a sigh, Draco watched as the two wrecked havoc on the wretched and golems… before noticing one escaping. Towards the enemy camp!

“No! you will not be permitted to give away our position!” with that he slung his shield again, making the Wretched fall… the shield should have stopped, but…due to his teachings on the Light, he was able to summon it back to him. Thank Uther. "Be sure to watch for the runners."

After this, Draco starting working on the conversions while the two blew up and cut down more of the wretched menace and shut down the Arcane Golems they needed… “I do hope they are not too damaged…” he’d sigh, seeing the blacked and dented portions of the Golem plating…

[Naheal]

The smoke cleared around Naheal, showing corpses around him with soot and dust covering his armor. He glanced back at Agnarr. "Back! I can handle these! Trust me, I'll be back in one piece. Just don't follow." He took off at a full run towards a larger group, hooking more explosives onto his belt and switching one of his devices. Cloaking device. Hope it works...

[Agnarr]

Wasting no time pondering what he was told, Agnarr turned back toward the others. Taknar had run on ahead as he could hear cackling amidst the screams of falling wretched. If the cackling stopped, then Agnarr knew it would be time to worry.

He turned just in time, as he saw a couple of the wretched creatures approaching Draco from behind, the Paladin's attention on the arcane golem he was working on reactivating for the defense.

Swapping his shield for a dagger and drawing his axe, the warrior hurled the magical axe at one of the wretched. The axe embedded itself into the neck of the former elf and it toppled to the ground behind Draco. The second, alerted by its companion's fall, spun and ran toward the Forsaken warrior.

Holding his empty hand out, the axe soon magically returned to his grasp. Agnarr was quite fond of his Decapitator. He ran toward the charging wretched. As the two neared, Agnarr dropped to his knees and spun, swinging both weapons out wildly. Both found the legs of the surprised wretched and passed through. The stunned creature's torso fell to the ground, no longer having its lower legs attached. Reaching back, the warrior planted his dagger into the back of the wretched's head, ending its misery.

Climbing back to his feet, Agnarr sheathed his weapons and patted Draco on the shoulder as he ran on to see what sort of trouble the Troll had surely gotten himself into.

[Taknar]

These golems were always precarious inventions, switching sides in the battle depending on who got to them last. At least, that's how Taknar felt about it as he finished the last conversion on the golems that Dracovista had disabled. The Elf hadn't even required assistance; he was a beast.

Turning around, Taknar could see Agnarr coming up behind him. From this distance, it almost looked like he was smiling having enjoyed the foray. Cackling, he gave Agnarr a wave in greeting as he prepared a spell to help renew the warrior's strength. He was sure to need it.

With the recovery of the golems complete, the old Troll knew that there were other tasks that needed doing. However, it would be troublesome if the Sunwell forces were to re-take these golems after having put in so much work to convert them this time. Reaching a long arm down to the ground, Taknar dipped a finger in mud and went to each golem in turn, drawing on Troll words of power.

"Dere," he said aloud to himself after he had finished. "Dose 'exes ah weakness be 'elpin' ta keep dem on owa side. If dey can't be bein' fully repaiahed, den dey can't be turnin' on us ahgain!"

Turning to Dracovista he added, "Aight den, wha be bein' da next goal, ya?"

[Visca]

“What… exactly did you just do?” Draco looked curiously at the Troll as he stuck mud on each of these constructs... Some sort of religious thing of his race, he was sure… but, he should atleast Try to learn. These were his allies afterall. The Sin'dorei were now Horde, he may as well get used to it... even if wished that this matter could have remained an Elven affair. As impossible a wish that was...

But, to answer his question Draco would motion for the other two to return. “Naheal and sir…?” He looked at the Forsaken, hoping to receive a name, if received, he’d use it… if not, he’d go on without it. “Get the essences from the Wretched and arm the wards. Naheal, as I said, if you wish talk about joining the strike force talk to Bahduum when you return to camp. Sir Taknah, was it? Follow me. You as well, Cerryan. As for you, Golems. Activate action 132. Follow me.”

Now, Draco felt like a leader. Like a general. Like a Visca, the head of the House at that. Perhaps he would earn the right to follow in his father's footsteps.

[Taknar]

"Nah mon," Taknar called out in response as he followed Dracovista. "It be bein' Taknah, wit' ah "ahhh", like da pirahtes be sayin'!"

[Agnarr]

The Forsaken nodded to Draco. "Agnarr Bloodmourne." With that he turned, and headed off to retrieve the essences some of the wretched carried, to reactivate the wards. He was quite familiar with the process, having done it regularly for weeks beforehand.

[Visca]

“Nah mon," Taknar called out in response as he followed Draco Visca. "It be bein' Taknah, wit' ah "ahhh", like da pirahtes be sayin'!"

Draco stopped and looked at the troll a moment, ‘ahh’ like da pirahtes be sayin’ At first it would be a confused expression… And sometimes he felt his Orcish failed him? What was he supposed to do with a Trollish accent? ‘Ahh’ …oh ‘Arrr’ TaknARR. “OH! My sincerest apologies, Sir Tankar.” Draco would bow his head slightly to the troll, trying to show that he was trying to be respectful, these were a different tribe after all… and this one Was aiding in the struggle against the Burning Legion.

After such, Draco would continue his stride towards town. Golems, a troll, and his friend following him; an impressive sight, he hoped. A solider would be awaiting him.


“Sir! The Naga on the coast are amassing!”

“Is it an immediate threat?”

“Err… well, not as of yet sir… but…”

“Let the new recruits handle it. We have more eminent dangers. Here, take these broken cores to Vindicator Xayann and tell the Quartermaster that I do need four of these shipped to my Manor.”
“Is that wise… with such limited resources…”

“Yes, it is. I do not trust the Magisters; something seemed… awry… when Sunward came to visit.”

“Y-yes sir. And what are your orders in preparation for the upcoming battle?”

“Send War-criers to Darnassus, Ogrimmar, Stormwind, Silvermoon, and the Draenei capitol… whatever it is they call it…”

A Vindicator would come up, “We call it the Exodar. And what is this? Why mention our ship?”

“We will need all the aid we can muster against the Legion; we are sending recruitment agents to key cities. I just hope your Alliance comes through, they failed the Sin’dorei once… will they fail Azeroth this time as well?” Yes, the sentiment stayed, after all, all Elves remember the stories of how Kael’thas...before he was corrupted... and his noble group was treated at the hands of that horrible human… Garithos, was that his name? He only hoped that human got his retribution, where ever he was.

[Skaadvik]

Skaadvik woke up in his small home in the Cathedral District, feeling a bit hung over... and what was that yelling? He held his head for a moment, and then the words became clear "...all hands needed! The Legion must be stopped.." the words faded out again. Gods, what a headache. "...Quel'danas... General Draco Visca!"

Skaadvik raised himself out of bed, donned his Alliance Military Issue plate armor, thick steel shield, and finally the brilliant blue glowing hammer he'd taken to using. He sat a moment and meditated, feeling the Light surround and fill him with righteous power. He stood, and looked at his Silver Tabby, rubbing itself on his little-used Warmaul in the corner. "The Fabled Order should be there. I will alert them. In the meantime... I need to get to the Island." Looking away, he donned his Order tabard and stepped out the door.

Using the magic of his Hearthstone, Skaadvik arrived immediately in Shattrath, and from there rode to the Terrace of Light, the best place he could think of to find a Portal. There it was, and there was an Aldor guard standing next to it. He took a deep breath, closed his eyes, and stepped through.

Arriving on the other side, he nearly collapsed. "I'll never get used to these damned things," he muttered. He walked down the ramp to the base of the tower and looked around. Taking in the area, he asked around for a "Draco Visca," and getting a satisfactory answer called his Charger into being and set off at full gallop to find this General.

It wasn't long before he spotted the man as described to him, and he stopped his charger some distance from him and his companions. Relations between Alliance and Horde had sadly been tenuous at best until this point on the Island... but, he ignored that fact and slowly approached. As he got closer, he hailed "I am Avatar Skaadvik the Reborn, of the Fabled Paladin Order. I am here to aid against the Legion in whatever way I can."

[Naheal]

Naheal returned to Bahduum, saluting. "Sir, Vindicator Naheal reports as ordered."

Bahduum looked at him, and eyed his tabard. "Vindicator? Get out of here and return when you speak the truth, elf."

Naheal chuckled, "Well, sir, by the Light, I speak the truth. I am Vindicator Naheal Malastar of the Aldor, a servant of the Light and the Naaru just like yourself."

Bahduum glared at him. "Aldor's getting lax, eh? Whatever. What have you to report?"

"Only that, under the guidance of my patron G'eras, I am to accompany the planned assault on the Sunwell itself."

"And why is that, elf?"

Naheal patted his blade. "Well, for one, sir, I carry one of the power sources that used the Sunwell's energy. I feel that it would be a great asset in there. And, for two, there's a sin that I and my former comrades, the Blood Knights, that must be corrected."

The draenei folded his arms. "Alright, but for now I want you to remain under that other elf's command... Visca? I'll send for you if we need you."

Naheal bowed respectfully, "Understood, sir." He turned and started back to find Draco.

[Visca]

Draco was right outside of town, discussing something with yet another one of the Vindicators. Right on the bridge that lead to the Plateau, waiting for Naheal and Agnarr to report.

“Are you sure you have eliminated all the magical gates?”

“Ves, for the fortieth time, ve are sure. Vy do you keep asking vis?”

“We need to send a strike force through, and I do not want to waste any race’s lives… that includes your kind, Dreanei.”

The Vindicator seemed quite annoyed by this, “Well ve appreciate the concern… Scryer… ve do not need...“

"I am Avatar Skaadvik the Reborn, of the Fabled Paladin Order. I am here to aid against the Legion in whatever way I can." Said the approaching human.

Draco looked over the Paladin with a smile, an actual paladin. A true follower of the Light! “Welcome, Sir Skaadvik.” Draco smiled warmly for once in this career as a general, “Glad to have a Paladin on board… I hope others of your Order are coming?”

[Ignas]

Preparations were being made in the Exodar in response to the threat of the Legion. Many members of the Hand of Argus were being called back to be sent to Quel'Danis and aid in the war effort. Vindicators, Exarchs, Anchorites, all those who were able were being outfitted and prepared for what many were calling the End of the Legion.

"Finally! We are will stand against the Legion send them back the Nether where they belong!" Ignas had to cover his left ear in order to keep from going deaf at the tremendous shouts of an Anchorite near him. It was hard to hear over all the noise, and the enclosed walls of the Exodar echoing the noise did not help. "And I thought Ironforge was bad during Brewfest." Ignas thought to himself as he tried to listen to the directions being given by some of the ranking officers.

"Ignas! Ignas! Vindicator Ignas!" shouted an Exarch while reading from a list of names.

"I am here." Ignas replied as he moved to where the officer was standing.

A few other names were called before he looked at the small group and began detailing their instructions. "Good, that is everyone. Alright, here is the plan. You will be the first group sent to Quel'Danis. Specifically you are to seek out the ranking officers of the Shattered Sun and let them know that the Hand will be sending more reinforcements soon. After that, do as they say and aid them as best as you possibly can. The Shattered Sun is in charge of this operation and we are there to help in any way we can. Is that understood?" A unified "Yes Sir!" was the response. "Very good. Our Mages have portals set up to allow you travel to Shattrath, and from there you will take the portal to Quel'Danis. You all know what to do once you are there. Go with the Light, troops." He ended with a salute and dismissed them towards the Vault of Lights where the Mages were waiting.

The group moved through the crowd until they reached the Mages who were busy maintaining portals to Shattrath. They numbered twenty five and moved through the portals as fast as possible. Moving through the Terrace of Light towards the portal revealed that the Shattered Sun was just as busy as the Hand was. Everywhere there were soldiers running and performing exercises to prepare them for battle. Not only that, members of both the Horde and Alliance were moving about nearly as much. "Shattrath is gearing up for war, and that would mean that the other major cities are making similar preparations." Ignas thought, and hoped, to himself. "Light be with us." he prayed to himself.

"The Light is always with you, my child"

Ignas stopped suddenly and looked towards the center of the Terrace looking for who may have spoken, but instead he focused on A'dal. The Naaru was hovering over the map of Quel'Danis where several officers were discussing battle tactics as well as the progress of the war effort.

"Hey, Ignas! Keep moving, we do not want to be late for our rendezvous!" said an Anchoress as she prodded him lightly with her staff. Ignas continued walking to the portal when, before any time had passed, he was standing on the balcony overlooking the staging area of the war effort.

The Shattered Sun officer was quick to dismiss them to their tasks, however, Ignas had other plans. "I am an Avatar of the Fabled Order and I answer to the Sovereign of the Alliance. There are certain duties that I must perform." Ignas said to the officer. The Blood Elf shrugged and replied "Well, there are others we can send out to get the Bloodberries. Do what you will, Draenei." At that, the officer left to tend to other matters.

Ignas was left standing in his heavy armor with his hammer near the bay. A Blood Elf marksman was nearby leaning against a halberd watching the sea. "Pardon me", Ignas said, "would you happen to know who is the one in charge? General, I believe is the term for the rank." The Blood Elf responded quickly "Oh, that would be General Draco Visca. He left not long ago with a small group of soldiers to take care of the Wretched and retrieve some arcane golems. I think he would be on the west side of town right now, near the large bridge leading to the Magister's Terrace." Ignas looked off towards where the Watchman had indicated. "Thank you very much, marksman." With that, Ignas summoned his Charger, having left his Elekk behind, and rode off with the Blood Elf yelling after him "Any time, friend!" "If only all Blood Elves were as kind as him." Ignas thought to himself.

As he neared the bridge, Ignas saw a Blood Elf speaking with some others around him. One of those figures looked familiar... "Skaadvik! Hail, friend. I am glad to see you here."

Ignas cleared his throat *Ahem* "Avatar Ignas Mordanas the Shepherd of the Fabled Paladin Order, Vindicator of the Hand of Argus, reporting for duty, General Draco Visca, Sir."

"I should probably shorten that for future encounters." he thought to himself as he saluted the General.

[Naheal]

Naheal saluted Draco as he approached, barely noticing the two that had addressed him. "Sir, as requested by Bahduum, I am to remain under your command until they should need me for the assault on the Sunwell. In the mean time, though, I'd like to prepare some explosives for our dragonhawk riders to patrol the area and neutralize threats before they become a real problem."

He pulled out a small glowing blue orb from his explosives pouch, a Primal Mana. "I think I have enough of these to make a few crates of the best I can make."

[Agnarr]

Agnarr was just finishing up the final preparations to rearming the final magical ward. After using the arcane essence carried by the wretched of the area, the crystal came to life, emitting a low hum. No sooner had the ward activated than a desperate wretched ran toward Agnarr, hoping to get its hands on the essence before it was all used up. The crystal ward shot out a bolt of electricity in defense, striking first the Forsaken and then ricocheting to the wretched.
"Ow," called out the warrior. The jolt was enough to hurt, but not enough to do any serious damage. The crystal shot out another pulse, again directed to the wretched by way of the undead.
"OW, damn it."
A third charge shot out. "Ow! Frelling elven piece of junk!"
A third hit was enough to dissuade the wretched and it ran back from whence it came.

The crystal quieted as Agnarr rubbed his neck. "I don't think those are supposed to do that," he mumbled, heading off to report back in to Draco.

[Skaadvik]

Skaadvik breathes a sigh of relief as a moment of tense silence passes, and upon hearing Ignas hail him, he nods to the General, and motions toward his friend. "Aye, and Avatar Ignas is only the first of my comrades I expect to see here. How can we help?"

[Visca]

At first the Vindicator next to Draco remained silent as the human appeared. But, as Ignas approached… the draenei’s facial expression changing with every line.

“Skaadvik! Hail, friend. I am glad to see you here.” The Vindicator grinned in amusement, watching Draco who was attempting to hide any form expression currently…

*Ahem* "Avatar Ignas Mordanas the Shepherd of the Fabled Paladin Order, Vindicator of the Hand of Argus, reporting for duty, General Draco Visca, Sir."

The Vindicator watching this would then start with a snicker, then a full out cackle, “Well, General… I do hope you meant what you said about not wasting lives!” Enjoying this he’d add in Draeneiac, “To think the Hand of Argus is taking orders from someone too radical for their Blood Knight order!” before walking off, far too amused at Draco’s unease.

Draco glared at the leaving Vindicator, before addressing Ignas, “We certainly could use the help, Vindicator Ignas.” Trying to choose the most preferable title, “Though, I swear on the Light, I see that hammer rise against me…” he grumbled, “Wouldn’t be the first time one of your kind tried to kill me for no apparent reason…” Draco could only hope his Common was up to standards… after all, he could read and write it better than speak it.

As Naheal approached, Draco had never been happier to see his ex-student. This Draenei had seemed friendly thus far… but after all the poor experiences with them before understanding fully the reason Why they tried to slaughter him on sight when he was a Blood Knight, they still made him less than comfortable. Each time he had to think on his feet to avoid death… whether it be outrunning them, hiding as well as he could in the terrain, faking death, or managing to overpower one… it was never pleasant.

"Aye, and Avatar Ignas is only the first of my comrades I expect to see here. How can we help?"

“Good. Light-wielders, such as we, are a great advantage over the Burning Legion. We need someone to scout the island and give us an accurate map, we have an idea… but troop movements may have changed. Avatar Ignas?” He wondered if that was more appropriate to him? “I may need you to cut down the Legion populations near that Wrathgate of theirs. Less of a surge we have during the final push the better.” He’d salute to the two Paladins adding, “It is an honor to fight alongside True Paladins.” He said with a warm smile. Draco would turn to Naheal to address his option, “As for you, Naheal, a good idea. Take someone else with you. We’ll need as many weapons in our arsenal as we can get.”


Gladius would be proud.

[Skaadvik]

Skaadvik saluted the General, reigined in his Charger, and shot Ignas a grin. "Ready to hunt some demons, my friend!?" Just before he rode off, he realized he recognized the other Blood Knight... "Naheal, good to see you still alive. Light guide you, and you as well, General." At this, he took off in the direction of the gate.

[Ignas]

"To think the Hand of Argus is taking orders from someone too radical for their Blood Knight order!"

Turning on his Charger and speaking in the Draenei tongue, Ignas responded "If you believe that you can lead these soldiers to victory in this war, then please, by all means, speak up." The Vindicator turned around for a moment, caught off guard by the comment, and searched for a response, but not quick enough. "That is what I thought. Return to your duties." Ignas dismissed him and turned to face the General while the Vindicator resumed walking back to the staging area, a most unsatisfied look on his face.

"We certainly could use the help, Vindicator Ignas. Though, I swear on the Light, I see that hammer rise against me... Wouldn't be the first time one of your kind has tried to kill me for no apparent reason..."

"No apparent reason?" He thought to himself. However, thinking it better to simply avoid anything that could result in a violent argument, he replied with "Sir, I may not be able to speak for most of my people, but I swear to you that the only ones who will feel the wrath of this hammer will be those who serve the Legion."

After hearing what needed to be done, and seeing the thrill of battle on Skaadvik's face as he turned his Charger and rode off towards their destination, Ignas saluted the General. "I will do my best, Sir." At that, he turned his Charger, although in a fairly clumsy manner with an smaller-than-desired mount. "I will definitely bring Nul'un next time."

Before leaving, he turned to the General. "Sir, if I may suggest something? It would seem that the Shattered Sun is being held together by a single thread. If I were you, I would find a way to keep the two sides from fighting amongst each other. We must not be so divided if we are to be fighting along side each other." At that, he saluted the General and the Blood Elf that had joined him and rode off following Skaadvik to Dawning Square.

[Naheal]

Naheal nodded to Skaadvik as he walked away and listened carefully to what Ignas was saying.

"Sir, he's right. That group of Paladins helped me in my own path towards the True Light, and I've found a great deal of allies amongst the Aldor. Also, I've found that Avatar Skaadvik can fight with some of the best of them. I know we've had our... disagreements in the past, but I ask for your trust on this one." He smiled.

He took in Draco's response before bowing and saluting. "Sir, do you have any suggestions on people to assist? I would prefer to work alongside an experienced engineer, and I need someone who will keep most of the schematics that I'm using secret. On the oath I took when I learned it amongst the Cartel."

[Visca]

“Right as he may be… we are dealing with a diversity that runs deeper than simple words can heal. Scryer and Aldor rivalry remains even against common foes. A shame, truly.” Even though Draco was guilty of it as well… “But, I will keep the suggestion close and see what I can do.”

As the Dreanei and the human left, he would listen to Naheal. ‘Disagreements’ was certainly an understatement. Draco had refused to help a cult, and Naheal left for it. Or at least that was what Draco believed. “Check with that ex-pirate in Stranglethorn. Maybe you can get him involved in the Order’s affairs for once, not simply calling their leader ‘glow-face’. He may have connections to more resources than we know. And if you could rally him… we might have a Fleet to back us against reinforcements.” At least, Draco hoped Naheal could…

[Naheal]

"Ex-pirate..." He thought for a moment. "Are you talking about Sahena's mate? What was his name..." He thought for a few moments before snapping a finger. "Vanderzee?" It was a long shot...

"Sir, for all I know this man may still want to kill me, but I'll see what I can rally. Also, I'll look to see if I can rally any of the remaining Cartel. I think I may have a certain Kaldorei and another dwarf in mind." He gave it a bit more thought.

"I may also be able to call in a few contacts of my own. From what I know Rannoch's not in too good of shape, Theira's constantly dealing with problems outside here and in her own family, but maybe I could call on one of the former Rangers. Jeshua. He left that group shortly after I had done what needed done, but, he's now a member of the Red Moon Clan. If we can get him, we've got at least three more that I can think of off the top of my head."

He folded his arms. "I know that you don't feel comfortable working with those Rangers, sir, but we really need all the help we can get. It may be time I call in a favor that I gave to a girl calling for help." As if it's really a favor. She'll come if she can. Hopefully I can get her brother, too. Without costing me my life, preferably.

[Visca]

Draco frowned, “That would be him… why would he want to kill you? And if you are wanting to go to Stranglethorn, I believe we can arrange a way far quicker than a Zeppelin.” Reaching from a pouch on his belt, he’d hand a piece of parchment and a blue crystal to Naheal, “Take this and the coordinates on the paper to Astromancer Darnarian. It Should take you to the entrance to Booty Bay. I planned on using it myself, but I am stuck here for the time being.”

"Sir..."
"Not now" Draco raised his hand to dismiss the Shattered Sun mage behind him.

Hearing the second part of Naheal's talk, he’d scowl slightly. “I am unsure how much good a cult of lunatics will do us, when they’re too busy screaming about some Eclipse and marks… but Very well. We do need as many soldiers as we can get. Now! Go with haste!” This last line was used for two reasons, one… to get him to go get aid. And the other to avoid such problems as to why he thought it was wise to leave the rebellion because Draco refused to aid a cult without proof. Getting him to go silent about this was certainly a plus….

[Naheal]

Naheal nodded and jogged to the building with the Astromancer. Time is of the essence. Reguardless as to whether or not he trusts my help, this problem is one for all of us. Even the goblins should be able to see that they can't sell anything if they're dead. He gave the parchment and crystal to Astromancer Darnarian. He didn't even listen to what he said to Naheal, simply responding "Booty Bay. The teleporter there. Should be easy."

Darnarian nodded and sent him on his way, blinding Naheal in the typical blue glow.

When he arrived in Booty Bay, he almost reflexively pulled out a seperate cloak before returning it into his pack. Oh, wait. Didn't do this myself. I'm probably not on fire. He looked at the nearest goblin. "Bruiser, find me an Enforcer."

"Enforcer? They don't exist no more, kid."

"Fine. A former one, then. If you can find Ryoku or Thal, then good. Reguardless, make it quick. Time is of the essence."

"There somethin' in it for me?"

"How about your hide, bruiser? If this doesn't get done in a timely manor, there's no more business for either of us. Now, get to it." The bruiser nodded and took off.

Naheal took off in a full tilt run, himself, on his way to where he was introduced to Vanderzee by Sahena nearly nine months ago. He yelled in Thalassian. "Vanderzee! Sahena! Either of you here? Come on! Time is of the essence!"

[Visca]

“Give me another.”

“Yes, Cap’n”


Van took another shot, calming his nerves after another slaughter of Pirates. It was his job, after all. But he desperately tried to keep work away from home. It wasn’t pleasant, it really wasn’t.

Then he’d hear a voice. Yelling. "Vanderzee! Sahena! Either of you here? Come on! Time is of the essence!" Well, there went the relaxation. And someone was trying to steal his mate away for some adventure he wouldn’t approve of, he was sure. Though… he had heard this one before… who was it?

After a twitch in annoyance, he’d slink into what shadows he could in the afternoon… Who the bloody hell was yelling for him and his mate specifically? He’d peak out… goody, that weirdo… the one who brought that girl, and yet refused to tell him anything? Oh, what ever he had planned… he’d have to talk to Van first.

He’d wait for Naheal to approach the inn, before sliding down a rope to drop behind him, drawing one of his rapiers. Pointing it at him, “Aye, what do yeh want? Eh?”

[Naheal]

Naheal glanced at the rapier for a moment before meeting Van's gaze. "I bear a message from Draco Visca. If I remember correctly, you served in the Blood Brigade from him. We need aid at Quel'danas. Anything you can offer would help."

He folded his arms. "And, if you don't mind, I would appreciate actually speaking in a civil manor. I can elaborate to our current situation, if you'd like."

[Visca]

Vanderzee would eye the elf up and down for a moment, making his judgment.

“Aye… well... come on.” With a motion, that would be all Naheal would get out of him, until he was sure they were out of goblin ears, taking an unmarked route to a ship docked nearby. Van would motion for his short term guest to follow, when both were aboard and in the hull… Van would speak again.

“What is it yeh want, eh?” Getting two bottles out of somewhere… best thing about Vanderzee’s ship… Booze was not a scarce resource.

[Naheal]

Naheal waved off his share of the drink. "Sorry, I don't drink. Part of my oaths." He tapped is Aldor tabard as he sat down. "There's a problem in Quel'danas. Kael'thas, our hapless 'prince,'" he scoffed at that title and name, "decided that he would do better to deal directly with the Legion." If the Scryers had just listened to us, we could have found this out sooner and avoided all this. "So, he went and tried to summon Kil'jaiden." He coughed.

"Well, turns out that someone managed to kill Kael'thas, but that didn't stop the summoning. So, the group in charge on the isle, the Shattered Sun Offensive, is mounting a, well, offensive to stop this summoning. And, Draco's in charge." He folded his arms. "I was thinking that we needed some support. I've a few favors to call in, myself, and Draco requested that I come and talk to you." He smirked. "Apparantly you have a fleet that could help us."

He took a deep breath. "I'm not sure you know about what was happening in Draenor, or about the skirmishes between the Horde and the Alliance, but this is serious enough for rivals to work together. Aldor, Scryer, Horde, Alliance. If we fail... We'll see something far worse than what had happened in Lorderon during the Third War."

[Visca]

“Sah don’t drink either… dunno what’s wrong with you people.” He said teasing as he took the two bottles for himself. He’d continue listening… most of it going over his head.

“Glow-face is in charge of stopping warlocks, eh?” He chuckled. “As fer a fleet. Think he’s got it all wrong. Yeh see, I ain’t really in a place ta help anyone. Baron’s got me by the… y’know.” He frowned. It was true, the Baron pretty much owned him right now.” He tried to ignore his questions about this legendary third war he knew nothing about, afraid it would enhance the feeling of stupidity people got from him for some reason... “But, I dun like it. Can tell yeh tha’ much. So… How many ships we talkin’? Perhaps I can get payback on the bastard. Wantin’ me firstborn an’ all…”

He’d lean in, “Just… keep this between you an’ me, aye? Can’t get Sah involved. She’s pregnant. She ain’t goin’ anywhere.” Van would take out a pouch of gold coins, “Please, I know I’ve lived a dangerous life… but… I really dun want her involved. Lost me mother ta the Orcs. Can’t lose me mate… or me child… How much will this cost me?”

[Visca]

Back at Quel’danas:


“Do we have that scout in the air yet?”

“What?”

Sighing Draco would give an order he was sure he had given already, “Get someone on a Dragonhawk and scout the land. We need to see their strong points.”

“Very well, sir.”

“And soilder?”

“Yes?”

"Sir, if I may suggest something? It would seem that the Shattered Sun is being held together by a single thread. If I were you, I would find a way to keep the two sides from fighting amongst each other. We must not be so divided if we are to be fighting along side each other." The Vindicator Ignas’s words still echoed in his mind. “Gather the troops. We need a rally.”

[Naheal]

Naheal smiled. "I can't promise that I won't say anything about it. I can, however, promise that I won't volunteer any information. If she asks, I'm obligated to speak the truth, and I've left the whole twisting it behind me with my Knight's colors."

He shook his head. "And, I'm not going to take your money. Just watch the backs of those around you, and we'll help watch yours. I will also give you my word that, if I have any say in the matter, I'll bring you back in one piece."

He glanced around him. "As for the goblins... leave them to me. I've enough information to get their cooperation as well. I've a friend on the high seas, as well, if I can find her." He lowered his eyes.

[Skaadvik]

Skaadvik saw his friend Ignas close behind him, and then looked to the demons before him. "He can catch up!" the Paladin grinned to himself, hurling a bolt of pure Light at the nearest demon. The demon was huge, but no match for a Paladin. It swung its massive sword, which Skaadvik managed to deflect to the ground with his shield. Then he held his hand toward the demon's chest, feeling the evil essence that permeated it and kept it standing here. "Back to your hell, Demon! The Light will not tolerate your kind here!" With that, he filled all of that evil and blackness inside the thing with blinding white light, and the demon turned to dust before him. Stepping over the ash, he heard something and turned his head just in time to see three more Infernals hurdling toward him. He consecrated the ground around him, and stood strong, awaiting their charge. Demons closing in on him, it occurred to Skaadvik that Ignas was right on his heels. "This should be fun..."

[Visca]

“Yeh forget. I’m where I am because of me past experiences with them. Bein’ an ex-bloodsail an’ all.” He looked down. “And her askin’ ain’t goin’ ta be a problem. Yeh ain’t seein’ her.” He was firm on this.

As he reclined in the desk, “An’ I Can’t go. Yeh don’ understand do you? I’m goin’ ta be a daddy. I can’t get meself killed. Gotta be there fer me kid. Fer me fiancée.” Then he’d lean in, “I can wish yeh luck. I can try an’ arm ya with explosives….”

“The goblins won’t be a trouble ferever. Yeh know, might ‘ave a few things up me sleeve.” With a wink he’d take another drink of his bottle. “What is it I can do fer yeh in this war… whatever it is?” A grin was on his face. Blood, carnage, war… things that interested his more savage side….

[Naheal]

Naheal leaned close. "I don't believe you quite understand the gravity of this situation, Van. If we fail, you won't be a father. Nor your mate a mother. None of us will survive this." He studied Van for a moment. "Don't think that you're the only one with someone to fight for. I've someone... special to me as well. And, I'm intending on being on the major assault."

He sat back a moment. "I don't know exactly what Draco wants you to do, but I can imagine he'll want at least some form of transport for reinforcements or supplies." He folded his arms.

[Taknar]

Taknar sighed and rolled up his sleeves as he walked around the isle. Visca had seemingly forgotten him, which left the old priest free to lend his services where he saw fit. And where he saw fit was with the two Alliance paladins. More than once in his time with the Horde had the Alliance pledged their aid to a cause and then completely ignored the truce. The first had been after the war in Hyjal. While not present at the fight, Taknar knew of the intrution of the human navy shortly afterwards. The second time had been after mounting the effort to aid the Cenarion Circle and their fight against the silithid. If Taknar had his way, there would not be a third chance.

He found the two across the bridge leading towards the Plateau, where the Legion's forces had created a portal to summon in reinforcements. He called out in his best Orcish, figuring they wouldn't have the slightest chance at understanding his native tongue. "'Uman! Eredah nah yet corrupted! Be leavin' da 'ealin' ta dis troll. Jus' be swingin' ya sticks ahround like da good children be doin', ya?"

He lept off the bridge towards them, and could see the angelic wings sprouting forth from the human as he felt the effects of Taknar's magic. With a cackle and a grin, Taknar joined the battle.

[Keraph]

Cerryan had been keeping close to Draco, quietly watching him take on the mantle of leadership, and keeping him relatively undamaged whenever battle was joined. The safety of his leader was Cerryan's first priority, especially in the focal point of all they had been fighting for over the past years. If this was to be where the fight was finished, then the paladin would be beside his leader and friend until the end, no matter what the result.

He listened to Draco give out more orders, the responsibilities of a war commander coming easily from him. The Visca line had always been known for their strength and valiance in combat, and Cerryan had no doubt that Draco was his father's son.

"A rally, sir? What do you have in mind, exactly?"

[Ignas]

It did not take long for Ignas to catch up to Skaadvik, and by the time he had arrived Skaadvik had disposed of one demon.

"Is this what the Legion sends to delay us? A few foot soldiers?" Ignas thought as Skaadvik turned towards another threat. An incoherent shout came from behind. Ignas looked behind him and noticed a Troll jumping off of the bridge and making a light jog towards them. Ignas noticed what it was that Skaadvik had been focused on: three large Infernals moving upon them. Ignas turned to face the Troll, thinking him a threat. However, he began casting spells to replenish their strength, all the while cackling in a most disturbing fashion.

"So, the Troll wants to help, eh? This will be interesting." Ignas then turned back towards the Infernals and, picking the one on the right, conjured a powerful hammer of Light over its head and brought it crashing down in the demon. Its movement was impaired as its limbs tightened and it slowed to a steady walk. "It seems that we have some aid in this." Ignas motioned behind him. "Now," Ignas held his hammer ready to fight "let us show these fel creatures the power of the Light!"

[Visca]

Van eyed the man up and down, getting slightly annoyed. Still trying to remain civil, he’d say slightly straining his voice in attempts to hide any distain from his voice, but it was beginning to fail. “And I don’t think yeh understand. I Can’t go. Fer many reasons. And I’m sorry if yer magic users caused this, but I ain’t ever liked that damn well in the first place. Now, if yeh don’t tell me what yeh want, I can’t help. If yeh need a ship, we are… harboring a comendeered Alliance transport. Take it. Caused us more problems than I’d like. Guy who it’s registered ta never came back fer it.”

Taking a swig of alchohol, he’d get up. “Now… theres got ta be more ta this than yeh playin’ messenger boy, aye?”

[Visca]

“They were correct, We are too divided. Aldor and Scryer. Horde and Alliance. Ex-loyalists and rebels… we are at stake. United we stand, divided we fall.” Looking at the sky, it was getting dark. The first day would be coming to an end soon enough. Draco took a deep breath and let it out before continuing on a different matter:

“Cerryan,… I am the last of a line…” he started looking at his friend.

[Naheal]

Naheal stood and began to walk out, his voice completely calm. "No, I'm getting accustomed to associates of Visca not listening to reason. We'll take the ship at least, but if you want to hide, then so be it. Just don't come to us when Kil'jaiden's at your throat and your mate's lying in a pool of her own blood. And, here I was planning on trying my own pull as a former Enforcer to help you." He shook his head. As if I was expecting any better. Well, hopefully the goblins will have a bit more they can do.

[Keraph]

The paladin listened, a look of concern for his leader on his face.

"Sir, the Visca family has been known for generations. A name like that doesn't just dissapear when it's last bearer has moved on and joined the Light. During the invasion, many noble families met their end. And I do not mean noble in the social sense of the word, I mean those who were truly that: noble. But they are not lost and gone forever, they remain known by their deeds and their virtues." He smiles, placing a hand on Draco's shoulder, "And besides that, sir, to say that you're the last of your line is to assume that there will be no more afterwards. You won't be falling here, sir, not while I'm here to protect you, not while the Light is on our side against this evil. We will be victorious. We must, for the good of the world."

[Visca]

“You say that now… but this is possibly the fulfillment of my duty. I am the youngest of the generation of my family. I am the last… and I have no heir. Though the Manor stands, it will be empty without me. Cerryan, my friend, If I should fall…I want you to have my inheritance. You are like a brother to me, it is fitting. If you wish, then… by the powers granted to me as the Head of the Visca Family, I hereby offer you to become a brother of blood. The Second Visca of this age.”


The thought of dying in battle was one that felt… odd. For his blood to be shed in the war to come, for the end be met in a noble cause… to see his family again. It was, interesting. Humbleing and swelling with pride at the same time at these thoughts. To die a man, not the boy he was when his duty was thrust upon him in the aftermath of the Invasion of the Scourge.


This war would quite possibly be his Judgment Day. And for him, he needed to be sure his affairs on Azeroth were complete. “I will be remembered this day, I pray, for fulfilling my promises. My duties. For helping bring upon our people’s Salvation.”

[Naheal]

((Based off of current events in game. Not going to be a forefront, I promise))

Naheal hiked his way back to Booty Bay. I'll send word... to... His thoughts trailed off as he looked off in the distance. Scourge. In Booty Bay. He unslung his blade before charging to the city. He glowed with a new light that he had learned to control recenty. The Seal of Vengance, which he had learned from some of his own friends. True Paladins. He had come to appreciate the Seal itself. It suited his style much more.

He charged the closest Ghoul and cut it in half before yelling at a Bruiser. "How bad is it?"

"Bad. We got hit hard. I think that Gadgetzan and Ratchet have been hit, too."

Naheal's eyes went wide. He took out one of his mechanical messengers, a small bird, and whispered to it. "Vanderzee. Your mate is no longer safe in Booty Bay and she need some sort of protection. I'll be needing to return to General Visca as soon as I can. He needs to be apprised of this situation and that reinforcements are going to be... short." Once it arrived, it would automatically spout off a recording of what Naheal just said. The best way he could communicate to someone.

He glanced at the Bruiser. "Cover me." Naheal then ran to one of the balconies in Booty Bay and surveyed the area. Ghouls were everywhere, and the plague was back. People radiated in the same way as they did during the Third War. What's going on? Scourge fighting Legion, now this? He shook his head before leaping from the balcony into a group of Ghouls. He quickly became surrounded by a holy light, a storm of sorts. Cutting through one after another, bearing hits that would've hit a goblin, he grunted as each Ghoul swiped him.

Wielding the Light in the volume that he did hurt. It hurt quite a lot. The grinding ache that he had felt when wielding the light turned into a neigh-blinding pain. He healed himself, he tore through undead. "Get me to the transporter! I need to get back to Quel'danas!"

A Bruiser yelled back. "What 'bout us, kid? You just leavin' us here?"

"Get what people you can onto your ships and zepplins and start sailing north, Bruiser. The plague can be cured for now, but we'll need to get that cured ASAP. If anyone can fight, get them to Quel'danas."

"What!? The Baron didn't approve-"

"I'm a former ENFORCER, Bruiser! And, would you rather stay here and fight these? There's no profit in that! Instead, head north and support the Shattered Sun Offensive. We need to take down one enemy at a time, and right now, we need to focus on the Legion. So, get going!" The Bruiser nodded and ran towards the larger inn. "Oh, tell the Baron what's going on, and tell him that what I suggested. Name's Naheal Malaster."

"You got it, kid!"

[Visca]

Draco looked at his friend one last moment, “Think about it?”

The sun was well on its descent. And the troops were starting to gather in the space below. Draco waited for a few more moments, before shouting “Formation!”

“Dear Comrades. I have been approached with a concern, one that is quite valid. I understand, and I respect that we may have our differences. Diversity on Azeroth allows keeps us strong. But, for these three days… We must set aside old quarrels. These three days, we are on the verge of the Apocalypse. We risk everything. We have beaten back the Burning Legion twice now; all both times we had to unite! Why should we believe otherwise today? Why should we think that we can fight so sundered?

Scryers and Aldor, Horde and Alliance; None shall matter if we fail in two days time. None can withstand the full might of the Burning Legion alone! Draenei, Dwarf, Elf, Forsaken, Gnome, Human, Orc, Tauren, nor Troll, shall stand if we fail today. The enemy is powerful, yes… but together we shall make this the third time the Legion was beaten by the mortal races!

United we stand; Divided… may the Light have mercy on our souls, for we will face a fate far worse than death.”

As Draco finished, the sun would set, bringing upon the end of the first day. “Let my words ring true in your ears, my brothers and sisters in arms. Let those who have the night shift have their arrows be true and their blades be sharp, those who need the rest… enjoy it while you can.” And with that, Draco withdrew into the building again. I pray that was enough… for we have no room for errors.

[Naheal]

Naheal ran towards the teleporter, the fighting slowly dying around him. "Is it set up, tinkerer?" The goblin nodded and he stepped onto the pad. "Send me there."

There was an explosion, typical of goblin engineering, followed by a roar of flame, and with that, Naheal was gone, leaving behind a singed sigil bearing the crest of the Red Moon Clan.

***

The teleport was a bit.. odd. Naheal opened his eyes, finding himself surrounded by undead. Ghouls, mostly, and a gargoyle flying overhead. He reached for his weapon and grasped the hilt, his knuckles whitening. Great. This was quite possibly one of the worst screwups I've had yet. Hopefully I live through this... He was about to draw his blade when he heard a voice from nearby, hollow, and cold. "Be at peace, Vindicator. You're not unwelcome here, former servant of the Legion."

Naheal turned to face the man who spoke to him. A human, slightly taller than he, but much more powerfully built, clad in black plate armor with a long blade across his back. It took a moment for Naheal to recognize the armor style and the blade style. "You... you're a..." The human nodded. "What do you want from me? I'll give you no information."

The human shook his head. "It's not what you can do for us, free slave. It's what we can do for you. I know of what you have remaining in you. That thing that's killing you. That's grinding against you when you wield the Light." Naheal kept his eyes locked on the man. "Your rune on your chest that changes your light to something more... managable... is being overworked. And it's sapping the very life from you. We don't want that. You're no use to us dead. No... what I have to offer you... is life."

Naheal tilted his head. "A life offered from a man surrounded by death in..." He glanced around him. "..the plaguelands, I assume."

The human nodded. "I offer to you the chance to join us as one of our honored Knights. The reward is far greater than anything the light could give you."

His eyes narrowed. "And the price is my soul, I assume?" The human smirked. "Well, I'm not too keen on giving that out for something small."

"Oh, trust me, my friend. It's nothing small."

Naheal closed his eyes. "If I agree to this, I have conditions." The human cocked his head. "One, you'll assault the Sunwell Platteau from the south through the Dead Scar. Slaughter any and all of the Burning Legion that you find."

"Easy enough."

"Two, I be given discression when exercising whatever 'power' it is that you give me. I will continue to follow a great deal of the tennants of the Holy Light." The human's eyes narrowed. "Three. Return me to Quel'danas with supplies enough to complete explosives needed to blast both Legion and Sunblade alike. Four. Allow me to continue to fight alongside the Shattered Sun Offensive until the time when we defeat Kil'jaiden and disrupt the summoning ceramony."

The human folded his arms. "After that, then what?"

"Then I'll go with you."

"Willingly?"

"Willingly."

"You have yourself a deal. Ghouls and Skeletons will be dispatched immediately." Naheal nodded as he was teleported out of the area, only to find himself standing at the landing point in the Harbor.

Draco...

[Keraph]

*Cerryan nodded, not knowing what to say as his leader and friend offered him a place in the Visca family, and the inheritence of the manor they had only recently restored. He had trouble forming his words before the masses gathered, and Draco tried his best to rally them into cooperation. As he finished his speech, and the sun set, he followed Draco into the building.*

"That was well spoken, Draco. I know that you've not always been on good terms with some of those who we're fighting alongside now. But you see the need for unity, and with any luck, we'll pull through this as one joined force against the darkness. And, about your offer...I am happy to accept. You've been like a brother to me, ever since you saved me from the corrupt path that I was walking without even knowing it. Truly, I look upon you as my family, and my greatest friend."

[Visca]

“I do what I can, there is nothing more. And, I will be proud to call you my brother, Cerryan. If we make it out of this alive… we shall celebrate the doubling of a dead house, hm? And… which allies would you be speaking of?” Draco grinned at his friend, his closest comrade. Though the grin would be short lived… for many reasons. As he descended down the spiraling ramp, he’d think in now silence.

Something was… troubling him. In the back of his mind, things seemed elusively… wrong.

[Naheal]

Naheal walked around, looking for Draco, before hearing his voice in one of the buildings. He approached the building and spoke, "General, I bring word."

[Visca]

About to head to the conference room for his rest, knowing full well as a General, he couldn’t simply go home in such a dire time as this… Draco would respond to Naheal’s approach, he’d have a quirked eyebrow and gave his regal salute. “What is your report? Did you recruit anymore soldiers for against the Legion? Was that pirate gentleman any help?”

He could only hope so….

[Naheal]

Naheal saluted Draco. "Sir, I'm afraid to report that Vanderzee himself is either unable or unwilling to assist at this time. I explained the gravity of our situation and he unfortunately felt that it was a problem that was caused by our magic users and, as such, was our problem. He also imparted on me that Sahena is also expecting and he's doesn't wish to leave the area at this moment. To top things off, he's also under the Cartel baron's thumb at the moment, so, even if he did want to come, he'd be unable to. I was going to attempt to speak to the baron himself on it, but, well, to be blunt, events didn't play out like that."

He sighed. "Sir, the plague's back. There were Scourge attacking the city itself, and I helped force some back to get at the teleporter after I had found that. I also instructed them to organize, evacuate the city, and send what they could up here as soon as possible. I estimate that we'll have at least five zepplins here by morning, with more arriving over time. These goblins also have the clearance to put together the same explosives that I wanted to construct, with the expertise to put together ammunition and scopes for our marksmen."

[Visca]

Hearing about his supposed contacts in Stranglethorn he sighed, “Well… That is a shame. I… do not know what to do with that one, if it had not been for him being so accommodating after the Silvermoon Massacre I would find him lazy and a coward… But…did he at least aid in creating the explosives you required?” Upon hearing the second part, his eyes wide. “…Wait. The Plague?” His voice grave and uncharacteristically alarmed, what was he to do? They were becoming surrounded by all sides!

Turning his back he thought about this. “…Does this mean… that the other prince has returned? It seems that when we secure the Sunwell once again, that we shall have a duty of attempting to protect it again. I… I pray the same does not happen again. I fear we would simply… not survive another blow such as that.”

Turning back to Naheal, Draco finally addressed the final part of Naheal’s report, “So… we shall have goblin support then? If so, then we at least have some form of good news. But it does seem that we have our work cut out for us. Malastar, you have done well. As for our occurrences here while you were away… I have tried to rally the men into unity. The night patrol is on duty currently. So, please… enjoy what rest while you can. And tomorrow? Report to the Drill Sergeant, if you are going on this strike force… Tomorrow is the last day you have to prepare. Understood?”

[Naheal]

Naheal nodded. "Understood, sir. And, if I might have a reccomendation? Focus on one enemy right now. The Scourge seem to be functioning seperately from the Burning Legion, and the Legion's a far greater threat right now."

He bowed. "Light bless you and guide your blade, sir." He then turned and walked out.

An Aldor anchorite walked up to him as he moved towards the inn, "Sir, are you alright?" Naheal nodded. "Sir... General Visca's wanting us to focus on instructions from him. What do you recommend?"

"Follow his orders, but don't do it blindly. He has the authority over the Shattered Sun Offensive for a reason. He's a good man, but he's got a paranoid streak. Listen to him and follow his orders. If you are given an order that you feel is wrong, take it to the Naaru."

The anchorite nodded. "And, sir... come with me. You're injured. We'll get you healed up."

[Visca]

The next morning
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



Whistles blowing.


A Sin’dorei shouting.


“Here here! I come from the Isle of Quel’danas! Kael’thas and his followers march with the Burning Legion! They claim our scared well as their own. Should we let them take it? No! Will we let them without a fight? No! Sign up, and join in the battle our former power! Let us not be dominated by demons! We drove them back once, we drove them back twice… let’s do it a third!”


Raving lunatic. The magister scowled out his window, wondering what the fel was all the shouting about. As he cleaned the rapier in his hands he closed his eyes in irritation; He hadn’t heard this much commotion since the Farstrider Square incident.


“In two days, the world as we know it will fall, unless we stop it!”


They knew? The magister paused, the blade freezing what liquid remained to polish it. That could be troublesome. How could they know? The magister rose, closing the window.


“Who will join the fight? We are all in peril! We must stand! This is our war!”


Our war indeed. The magister took a crystal globe of Azeroth, activating it. A red spark glowing from Quel’danas, then it would glow. The red would consume the globe whole, before portraying an Eredar. “Well?” the demon spoke in annoyance, “What is it you have us today, Adonis?”


“They know."

[Ignas]

"Have we been fighting all night?" The first rays of dawn filtering through the trees provided the answer.

"We have been hunting demons for nearly day." Ignas said out loud. He was breathing heavily, not used to such prolonged combat. Most of his experience in combat was composed of short skirmishes and guerrilla tactics which allowed for more chances to rest and recover. Over the course of the night, they had made a few stops to rest, but returned to their duty of slaying the demons shortly after.

Ignas looked ahead of him at Skaadvik, who was standing a few short paces away and appeared to be looking around for more demons in the area. The Troll had walked up near him looking around on occasion, perhaps to keep an eye out for more demons as well.

When Ignas had noticed the Troll he turned towards him and, straightening himself in a more dignified position, brought his right fist hard against his breastplate causing a heavy, clunking thud.

"Throm-ka." he said to the Troll. "I hope that some of the old Orcish customs are still in use today. Their language could not have changed much eihter. Thinking hard on the Orcish language, he spoke as best he could in broken words. "I's sorry, I'sm is Ignas. What's you's called name?"

[Taknar]

The old troll pointed and cackled at Ignas as he stood up from where he was resting. Taknar had no intention of trying to piece together Orcish that was only slightly more broken than his own. Instead, he put away his hammer and his vuudoo trinket and stood up to look the Draenei in the eyes. He seemed exhausted. There hadn't been much time for rest, and Taknar wouldn't let them stop either. Each time they ceased fighting for a bit of a break he managed to lure another pack of demons to their area. If they were exhausted from the battle they could not muster the strength to fight the Horde once the demons were taken care of. They would either go home to rest, or be struck down by the less patient Horde members for trespassing. How they ended up leaving didn't matter though, so long as they left.

The paladin's blue forehead was large and sweaty, and seemed to have a small circle on the centre of it. Taknar looked to the circle, staring at it as it grew larger and larger. He glanced up a moment then pushed the blue giant out of the way before leaping back and away from the source of the circle; a large incoming Infernal. He ran around to the side, mace in one hand and the fingers of his other in constant motion. His free hand suddenly stretched out towards the paladin, and Taknar cackled as the Draenei soul burst forth from its body to create a protective shield. Next, Taknar focused his gaze on the Infernal and reached his mace hand up towards the heavens. A quick drop of the hammer was accompanied by a great pillar of fire mimicking it's movement. It slammed down above the demon, ripping through it and bursting it apart into pieces of smoldering rock once more.

With the demon destroyed Taknar bent down and wrote out three words out of his small library of the human's Common language.

"Stop
mean
dead"

[Taknar]

As she marched out of the water and onto the decaying earth of southern Quel'Danas, she turned around to look at her army. His majesty had granted her a thousand Scourge for this march. A paltry number in his mind, she was sure. But for her, these thousand would be her stepping stone into greatness.

With water still dripping off of her Saronite armour, she looked weakened. Like sweating from an overwhelming task. She looked... defeatable. That would not do. She reached behind her back, brushing some of the water off of her deep blue braids as she grasped a hold of her massive black axe and brought it to wield in front of her. The axe was nearly as long as her leg, and the edge was lined with strange markings. Runes of power. The aura wrapping around the blade ran up the long handle and twisted around her arm, and then down her back. It caressed her blue tinged skin like a lover would, and she shivered as the feeling took. A small fog of condensation started to rise from her body as the cold surrounded her. The water on her skin froze, and with a shake all the small droplets of ice flew off. That was much better. Now she could put her army to task.

She stared out at the field with glowing blue eyes, symbols of her power and her rights. The last time the Scourge had come up this way it had been under the direction of her master. The idea that she was following in his footsteps made her smile a devilish grin with fangs bearing. The wall was still crumbled from their last offensive, but now demons manned the walls instead of elves. She was not there, but she could remember and see it all clearly. It was His gift. What it was before didn't matter though, only what she would make of it. Further back, there were larger overlords and sorcerers but they would not have the time to react before they were overwhelmed. She decided to strike quickly, picking out the closest demon she could see. It would be the example.

A dark cord leaped out from her hand towards the demon, pulling it easily through the air. The female Trolless shot a hand upwards and blasted it in the face with a permeating cold, letting the frost fever set in. With a quick upwards strike towards the leg, she let her axe bite deep. For that brief moment her axe turned a dark green and oozed into the wound. Using the freshly cut leg as a stepping stone, she jumped up to run two quick slashes across it's chest. The demon reached out for her, trying to grab her out of the air, but couldn't move fast enough. Its fingers and arm muscles were beginning to show signs off frost, and the young Scourge general could feel it. She breathed in and the cold aura wafted off the demon's arm and into her body. If he isn't going to use the heat I will, she thought to herself.

Moving faster now, she ran around to the left of the demon, catching it's other leg with the axe as she ran by. Jumping again, she stuck towards the creature's wings. The demon attempted to dodge the attack, but her runed axe would have none of that and guided her strike such that the wings were cut clean off. The demon fell to the ground without the wings to help it balance on it's weakened legs. A final blow to the neck separated head from body, and it was done.

She pulled around the horn at her side, and gave a large blow. The sound filled the southern half of the island, echoing inside the section of the plateau that had no wall. "Follow my example, my soldiers!" she called out to the army of ghouls behind her. "March forward and devour. Destroy! For the one true King! SUFFER WELL!"

With that, she ran forward to lead the charge. She was not going to let this perfect opportunity to prove her worth go to waste.

[Naheal]

"'ey, kid. We're here. Who we reportin' to?" Naheal jerked awake and met a goblin's gaze.

"How many?"

"Seven zepplins right now, two more on the way and should be here within the hour. We've also got some sea ships comin'. Don't know how many, though."

Naheal nodded. "Alright. How many explosives techs?"

"We've got about seventy laymen and another fifteen certified techs. Also got some gnomes. Don't ask me why, but they think they can help."

Naheal smirked. "Don't worry about them. Have the gnomes start putting together some scopes or whatever for our marksmen. Send the certified techs to me, with their cards, and we'll get some explosives going for some bombing runs. Send a bruiser to talk to Draco Visca. He's running the show here."

"You got it, kid."

Naheal stood and started walking out of the inn, when he was stopped by a Draenei Vindicator. "Vindicator, we've got a member of the Hand still out there." Naheal nodded aned took the reigns of his wolf.

"Where?" The Vindicator gave him directions and Naheal took off on his wolf at a full gallop.

***

Naheal approached a human, Skaadvik, a draenei and a troll he recognized as Taknar. Demons were still here, but there were enough corpses around for him to notice that they had been fighting and he could see the fatigue in them and he spoke in orcish, then common, "Everyone alright?"

Before they could respond, Naheal caught a demon approaching out of the corner of his eye. He raised his hand and blasted it with holy energy, dismounted, unsheathed his greatsword, and wrapped his weapon in a Seal of Vengance.

[Visca]

Sunlight. The day before the Crusade came to the close. Waking in the conference room with a start, seeing a goblin staring at him… “’Ey! Ya the boss around ‘ere?”

Draco would get up out of the chair he ended up sleeping in. “Yes. And… who might you be?”

“Reinforcements. That Naheal sent fer us. I’m ‘ere fer orders.”

Draco looked the Bruiser up and down… “How many reinforcements do we have exactly?”

“Nine zeppelins full. And ships on the way.”

“…Vanderzee came through then?”

“The Cap’n? You didn’t hear? He Vanished. Off the face of Azeroth.” He nodded at his own statement, “An’ let me tell ya, Revilgaz ain’ happy. No sirree.”

“…Interesting…”

“In the middle of the Scourge fight, me guessin’…”

“I see… now, get the bruisers to secure the area. We could use more guards, more at harbor… we have a Naga encampment to the South east that needs to be watched. To the west, we have Wretched. So non-Burning Legion threats exist as well, I do hope you can see the seriousness of this situation?”

“No one knows where he’s at… Hope the Baron don’ catch him…”

“Are… you even listening?”

“Yes?”

“…I’ll write the orders down. Please, stay focused at the task at hand?”

“Yeah, yeah.”

“You cannot be paid if you are dead…”

“….Oh. That’s true, ain’t it?”

Draco would go to get a quill and a piece of parchment off the table, “Now… I know your Goblin Engineering can be quite formidable… So, I would be interested in seeing what you can create to aide us. I shall have more orders for you throughout the day. Understood?”

“Yeah… but… who’s payin’ us?”

“I will make sure you receive your money. After we win this war. Now, be gone with you. I have work to do.”

Draco waited until the goblin was obviously gone before calling on his communicator with a sigh... “Order, meet me in the conference room at Sun’s Reach Harbor. I will be waiting for you outside.”

[Faynt]

((Tell me if anything I post doesn't work!))

The Walk of Elders was strangely quiet, the gossamer curtains that encased the seating area blowing softly in a breeze Fayntira could no longer feel. She felt nothing anymore... not since 'Guardian' had bitten into her side. The blade and her pride had been her undoing. No, she cared for naught, she loved for naught, she lived for naught.

Well, there was her work. She supposed it was the only thing keeping her alive anymore. Her gloved hand smoothed her red and gold tabard... the Madame would not be pleased with the sudden drop in morale.

But even this could not last forever, could it?

Faynt closed her eyes and smoothed her bangs. She made as if to stand when a cry rang in her ears. "War?" She breathed the word. Her salvation...

The Sin'dorei stood, striding to the curtains and pulling them aside with a rough hand. There, in the street, were a Goblin and another Elf- arguing furiously. Faynt tapped down the stairs leading up to the bench she had occupied, and stood a short distance away from the noise.

"Whaddya mean y'can't do it anymore!?" The goblin yelled, furious, at a shady-looking male elf. "We paid you! In ADVANCE!"

The elf snapped back, "My wife JUST told me! I can't go to a Fel-ridden war when I'm going to be a father. Here's your damned money." A flick of his hand and a coinpurse went sailing into the Goblin's chest, bouncing off his shirt and falling to the stone. It split on contact with the ground, gold pieces clattering around the Goblin's feet.

Immediately, the coins were gathered by the businesslike Goblin, and stuffed into a new sack. One couldn't just leave gold on the cobbles. Faynt raised an eyebrow as the male elf waved his hand and then took off at a rapid pace down the street.

"Oi! Come back here you Sonofa..." The curse degenerated into grumbling as the goblin tugged at his tie. Fayntira's hand rose to her own throat, fingers dancing over her necktie as well to make sure she was presentable.

"Excuse me." She spoke without inflection or hesitation. The Goblin looked up sharply, and Faynt gave a short bow. "I heard something about a job?" She watched as the gears began to turn in his little green skull, and she waited patiently, staring intently for the first sign of an idea.

"Yeah... yeah, you did. Dangerous stuff, though. I'm needin' a sneaky-type to head out to some sorta battle with some Elf, beggin' yer pardon, and I need him today." The goblin looked her up and down. "Know somebody?"

She simply stared at him, frostily.

"Oh, aight. You think you wanna go, girlie? Well, You look like a 'nice' little thing, so I'll tell 'ya. Chances are, y'ain't comin' back."

She blinked at him, voice still a monotone. "Perfect."

The Goblin blinked right back, and then shrugged. "Your funeral. But if you make it back, there's money in it for 'ya." He dug in a pocket, and pulled out a crumpled piece of parchment. ""Ere y'go. Find that Elf, he'll assign y'."

The Goblin trundled off, the sound of gold being counted trailing after him in the breeze. Yes, the breeze. Faynt closed her eyes, and clenched the parchment in her fist. She could feel it, stirring her hair and making the pale strands dance around her shoulders with relief.

Yes. This would be the end. All she had to do...

She opened her hand, unfolding the paper and staring coldly at the words on it.

... was find Lord Visca.

[Ignas]

At first, Ignas thought that the Troll was mocking him for his poor Orcish. With the morning sun now giving a clearer view of the Troll, Ignas noticed something. "He is old. Very old" The wrinkles on the Troll's face were not something that he had noticed on many other Trolls that he had fought.

The Troll was very close and was staring at him, perhaps about to say something, perhaps about to burst into another fit of cackling. "If he starts cackling again, I may just strangle-" Ignas was ripped from his thoughts as the Troll pushed him, with surprising strength, backwards only seconds before an Infernal landed right where they were standing. A sudden rush of energy moving outwards from his body caused him to panic for a moment, but soon realized that a shield had been placed around his body. The Troll then brought his hammer down in one wide swing and a pillar of flame struck the demon from above, shattering it in an instant. "Remarkable! Such power and control!" Ignas thought. The power of the Spirits always interested him, but this power, it was different. It seemed to be similar to the Spirits, but different enough incite his curiosity. "I must inquire about that power at a later time."

As Ignas stood and wiped dirt off of his Tabard of the Hand, he noticed that the Troll was scratching something in the dirt.

"stop
mean
dead"

It was not hard to understand what the Troll meant. Ignas nodded towards the Troll and, speaking Orcish, said "Thanks."

Ignas then looked up into the sky as if expecting to see another Infernal hurtling towards them when a Blood Elf rode upon them on a wolf. "Everyone alright?" the Blood Elf inquired. Before Ignas could respond, the Elf dismounted from his wolf and charged an incoming demon. Ignas shot a bolt of Holy energy towards the demon and struck it in right shoulder. It continued its charge while Ignas lifted his hammer in both hands, ready for the demon.

[Visca]

“They know”

“We feared they may learn before the time was right. And we are taking the appropriate… precautions. Stay available, we will need you to deliver a present to these ‘Shattered Sun’ resistance.” A cruel smirk appeared on the Eredar’s face.

“Understood.”

The orb’s image the Eredar stood over would fade the connection over currently. Where they were stationed looked to be a mana forge. The Demon waited for the progress below to finish, standing overhead on a platform, looking down, and “How close are we?”


A Sunfury engineer lifted his goggles off his face, “Well sir, we have the casing secure just about… in the other room, they’re working on the more… intricate items if you wish to inspect them?” Then the Sunfury put on his goggles again, using a tool and wielding the Adamantite plates together.

And go to the other side, this demon did. This section was covered by glass, the Sunfury engineers in here wearing full body suits, covering them from any potential leaks. Careful at what they did, their creation’s inner workings were taking form. All the workers on edge, this was certainly a live site.

“Keep working, keep working… we have a schedule to keep! Our lord is joining our home world tomorrow!” A sin’dorei supervisor shouted at them. One engineer started screwing something in too tight, only to be stopped by the Supervisor. “Are you Trying to get us killed?! What if this went off?”

“Err… sorry sir.”

“Get off my line. Get!” Then he looked up to see the Eredar above. “The rest of you… be careful! We all know what happened in Treokkar when these things are set off!” Quickly he hurried off, having to change and get showered off to rid him of any contaminants, before getting on the platform with his overseer.

“How much longer?”

“Sir… we have until tomorrow…”

“No. They found out. We have to eliminate the resistance now.”

“I can… get us up in an hour sir.”

“Very good.”

“But… we’ll have to rush it.”

“I don’t care. Kil'jaeden must be uninterrupted. Understand?”

“Yes sir. I’ll get the men to hurry.” The Sunfury rushed down back down to supervise his engineers.

[Naheal]

Naheal let out a roar and charged after the demon, striking it with a strong blow and forcing a burning wound on him. Immediately afterwards, he became surrounded in a storm of holy energy, deepening the burning wounds on him, his hands glowing brightly and being strengthened by the Light. He swung once more, deepening that wound just enough, when he unleashed his seal in a Judgement on the Demon.

From the wounds from the Holy blast and the burning slashes that were on the demon, it dropped. Naheal wiped some blood from his Aldor tabard and turned to face the Draenei, Skaadvik and Taknar, addressing the Draenei in Common, "Vindicator of the Hand, yes? The Aldor were concerned when you didnt return. Have you been hunting demons all night? Would you appreciate some aid for a time? I've business I must attend to later, but I will more than happily hunt demons with you."

After he heard the draenei's response, he looked at Taknar and spoke in Orcish. "Taknar, are you well?"

[Taknar]

"Dis troll be bein' fine, Naheal," Taknar said with a cackle. "Wit' da powah ah dis troll's primary Loa permitted ahgain, ah be 'avin' mo' enahgy den ah can be recallin' fa ah long 'hile."

Looking over at the two others with him, he added "Aldo, dese two be lookin' worse fa weah. Dis troll be workin' dem 'ard. Dey nah be 'avin' ah Troll's stamina ta fight. Nah ah Orc's fa dat mattah. Dis troll be bein' loathe ta ahllow it, but maybe dey be needin' ta rest fa da night."

[Visca]

It would take about ten minutes for the Order of Eversong to fully join him in the conference room. When the last he knew of that was coming came in, he closed the door. “We have a situation in Azeroth for those who do not know…”

Slowly, Visca walked up to the centre of the hollowed section of the round table. It was grim news he was delivering after all, “The Plague… has returned.” He said with a sigh of sorrow, “I do not know how far it has spread… how fast it has spread... or what this exactly means as far as Scourge movement. As make our push against the Burning Legion against their foul crusade we leave ourselves potentially open for a flanking by the scourge… as well as leave Quel’thas without much support. This cannot be allowed, as well as losing soldiers in the Shattered Sun Offensive in our mounting attack tomorrow. Due to this dangerous situation, I wish the Order to provide what aide they can until we can finish the war effort here. This will consist of anyone who isn’t an ambassador or higher. Have I made myself clear?”

“But… This is the time to bring the Order of Eversong to glory!” A freedom fighter popped up. It was true, their whole organization’s goals lead up to this...

“We have our glory now. But glory is not what we are seeking. The Order of was founded for the defense of the Sin’dorei. We were able to make the tough decisions; we were able to go against the grain when we had to. And now… this is one of those decisions. We are no longer choosing to go to war against our own people’s leaders… we are choosing which threat we must deal with. We are choosing to spare our resources on another threat to buy us time to finish here as well. Both are of high priority. Once we finish here, we will come to aid you. Now… time is of the essence! Go!”

Allowing them to leave before he sat down, he’d flop in his pate armor into a chair, sighing. I hope this was a wise decision on my part… I pray they can hold out long enough for us to finish…

“Yo! Visca! We need some, ya know… insurance that we’re gettin’ paid fer this!” The bruiser barged in.

Looking at Cerryan, he’d growl in Thalnassain, “Oh how I loathe Mercenaries” before looking back at the goblin, speaking back in orcish for him... though it might not have mattered... “Very well. I shall get you the key to our funds for you.” He said with a sigh as he went began to leave the room, “And Cerryan, please round up the Fabled Order paladins… I have not seen them since yesterday, and they need their rest before tomorrow…” And with that, he would have to return to Old Silvermoon to get the insurance that the goblins so desperately needed.

[Naheal]

Naheal nodded to Taknar and spoke in common, "My troll friend is right. You need rest. You've been out all night. I'll escort you back. Once we get back to town, report directly to Draco Visca and then get to bed."

[Keraph]

*Cerryan nodded, his mind still buzzing from the Order's meeting. Had the plague really struck again? How could this have happened, at the worst possible...regardless, Draco had been right. As important as this battle is to the Order, the reason for it's existance has always been to protect their people. If the world was saved from one threat only to be consumed by another, then a victory here would be meaningless. He prayed that the lower ranks of the Order could stave off any threats from the Scourge until he could join them*

"Oh, y-yes sir. I'll look for them at once" *With that, he left the building, summoning his warcharger and heading off in the last known direction of the paladins. It was not long before he ran into them, accompanied by Naheal and the troll Taknar*

"Naheal! Good, the other paladins are alright. We were worried when they did not come back, but I'm glad to see that everyone seems to be ok." *He turned to the members of the Fabled Order, speaking in a tongue not used in some time* "Light bless you, my friends" *That much he knew in many languages* "I hope you haven't strained yourselves too much; the fight is far from over, and we'll all need to be at our peak when the time comes. I'll help in escorting you back."

[Faynt]

Faynt looked down at her closed fist, opening her fingers like a peacebloom at first light. In the center of her palm lay a paper, crumpled and flattened and now crumpled again. She didn't need it, really. The script on the parchment had been burned into her brain from hours of thought.

Her eyes flicked to the tall arch as the wooden manor doors opened. A Knight slipped through the opening, stopping only to call out a name before moving past her. She eyed him carefully, then called out in her trademark monotone, "Lord Visca?"

He turned, having grabbed the reins to a horse that had just trotted up to meet him. "Yes?"

Faynt bowed to him, and so the interview began.

They spoke for a middling while, of battle plans and where she would help them make their stand. The Lord Visca seemed uneasy around her- it was of no matter. She was not unused to such a reaction. And none of it mattered. He was a good elf, she could tell. Worth protecting... with her life. She did not intend to walk away from the battle. Her time had narrowed down to this one dot on a map, an inkstain on a parchment. So she poured her intense concentration into memorizing the map of Quel'Danas as he pointed out troop movements to her.

When the briefing was over, she swept a low bow, and added, "Should the worst come about, please Notify Librine Mournsonnet, who is my cousin and the head of my house, and please tell Soa Aluune, my employer."

He nodded to her, and they traded fareells until tomorrow.

---

She awoke, sprawled in her bed, tangled in the sheets. She had slept alone, which had not been her intention. Oh, well. She had spent the evening with Mira, had summoned the courage to show a smile. Faynt had also left a wrapped note with her.

She rose from her narrow bed, and drew a thin robe about her form. The last day. Judgement, as Lord Visca had said. And she knew it would be the last time she would see Silvermoon. Last night, looking Mira in the eyes. The last time.

With a sigh, Faynt opened the window overlooking the Bazaar. Her small apartment was high up in one of the many towers, up near the purple-hued sky. She looked over the city...

"Goodbye."

The window shut with a tug of her hand, and she began to suit up.

[Visca]

Returning from his trip to get a key to the vault for the goblins, he’d see the group waiting for him. He’d smile seeing that the two from Fabled Order had made it all right, Naheal and Cerryan were good sights to see as well, the goblin… was not. “Hail! My apologies for the delay, I had to retrieve something for,” Draco would motion at the goblin as he showed him the key, “this one.”

The goblin looked at the key curiously, “And what does that exactly lead to?”

“The Scryer Vault, You will have to talk to one of the Vindicators about receiving the Aldor key." Draco said trying to keep it short. Simply too focused on the gold, I do pray these goblins are an asset and not a liability. Before the goblin could respond, Draco continued, “But, I do have something I hope makes the inconvenience up to you?” And with that, Draco removed the scroll case from the back of his belt, that which was hidden from view until now.

Opening the case, he’d pull out a map of Quel’danas, one that had the battle plans marked on it. This was the operation for tomorrow.



http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q36/dragonson07/World%20of%20Warcraft/QDbattleplans.jpg

[Ignas]

The short trip back to Sun's Reach was a welcome reprieve from their long night. Traveling along the walls of the Sunwell Plateau allowed them to avoid any of the demons surrounding the portal from which they were spawning. Ignas looked at the wall and, running his along it, could almost sense what was happening on the other side. Preparations for the summoning of the Deceiver were being made. "We must not fail." he said aloud, to no one in particular. As these thoughts entered his head, desires for rest and food began to drift away. Still, he would need to be at peak performance for what was going to happen tomorrow.

They arrived at Sun's Reach and saw a small group of Goblins talking amongst themselves. It was not long before General Visca arrived and presented a Goblin with a key.

"Fighting for the survival of Azeroth and yet they still desire gold." Ignas said with a sigh, ignoring the menacing look one of the Goblins was giving him.

General Visca presented a map of the Isle, with the battle plans laid out. They were simple, and easy to understand. Mistakes would be at a minimum if they were kept as such. Ignas looked at the Eastern part of the Isle.

"What of the Greengill coast? The Dead Scar? Have we sent scouts there to investigate any enemy activity?"

[Visca]

“The Dead Scar, last the reports came in, was a battlefield of its own. The Scourge and the Burning Legion are in constant struggle against each other… this distraction could prove quite valuable. Because of such, we cannot afford to meddle there in fear of tipping the delicate balance and one overwhelming us there as well.” The goblin didn’t want to wait for the key, and as such, he’d begin to move his hand towards the chain it was attached on Draco’s belt, “We may, depending on just how well our numbers are, be able to spare a few men and dragonhawks to bomb them from the sky enough to keep them busy.”

The goblin grabbing hold of the key, and trying to find a way to remove the chain would get smack from Draco’s gauntleted hand upon the back of his head, Draco really did hate the money grubbing mercenaries' way of thinking, and this was his way of showing his disproval, well it worked. “I told you that you would receive your pay After the battle was won.” He’d said to the goblin before returning to the discussions of strategy.

“As for the Naga, their purpose here is unknown. Although their presence is alarming, they have yet to make an organized move against us. As long as we keep our Wards up during the battle, and defend from all sides here at Sun’s Reach… we should be fine.” Draco’s hand would move towards the smaller of the black circles, “This is where you just returned from. The wrath gate, unless you have already… it will need to be shut down. I will send you a few men to do this as well, but this operation would be best suited by Paladins. You may have to enter it to shut it down from their side, and to eliminate those threats you can there as well… From my experience, Wrath gates have a way of repairing when they should not. If you need so, we can arrange to have our mages here to work on a way to summon you back to Sun's Reach when the objective is achieved.”

[Faynt]

Fanyt swung off the back of the 'hawk that had flown her to Quel'Danas. The brilliant beast looked into her cold eyes with a measure of curiosity... but then lost interest as it was led away to eat.

She brushed off the front of her tabard- the red and gold livery of the Madame's servants was pristine. A quick glance behind her, to her homeland, and she hurried down the steps to where Lord Visca stood, speaking with a Draenei, a goblin, and a handful of others. She jogged up, saluting Visca and drawling in a chilling tone that even carried through her Thalassian, "Reporting, M'Lord."

[Taknar]

(( not enough time at the moment to write up an in character thing. I've gotten a new job which have kept my posts short at best due to long commutes eating up my day. I just wanted to inform you that it is Taknar's intention to stay back at the wrath gate as opposed to returning to base with the others. If and when people head back there, assume the situation however you want. The old troll won't be there anymore ;D ))

[Faelenor]

The Ranger Colonel rode furiously to the Farstrider Retreat. His Talbuk, pushed to its limits. His life in Nagrand cut short by Visca's call. He did not intend to fight along side Draco Visca, but his mind spoke otherwise. His past became irrelevant, his fear of reliving the past had faded away.

"Damn it Visca... why am I about to do what I am about to do right now?"
----------------------------The Arrival of the Colonel. (many hours pass)-------------------------------------------------------

"Everyone gear up, and follow me. We leave for battle immediately. For a long time now we have been deemed unnecessary. It is time to prove those voices in the city wrong. Our peaceful lives are being threatened by the frozen throne. Pick up your bows, your blades, your helmets, and mount up. Let us prove ourselves once more. The last passing of the scourge left our numbers and our moral low. We have trained long and hard for a moment such as this one... We do not have all day. I am afraid the battle may have already started. Get moving."

The Farstriders gazed at the Colonel atop his armored talbuk, his return was not expected so soon. Then with a moralizing shout from the crowd, they began preparations for their leave. They all picked up their bows, leaving behind all sense of fear and hoped to return alive or die heroes. It had been a long time since they had been put to any use.

"Let us tread carefully and not let that fey dark weald that ends all life's journeys stop us... Bring me my tabard. If I am to die today... I die a Farstrider. I die... A Rayfeather."

The sun shone down on the small army. Their destination, Quel'danas.

[Naheal]

Naheal glared at one of the goblins. "Your payment isn't in gold this time around, but in schematics. You'll be able to make far more. Here..." He pulled out some of his personal schematics. Explosives. Those he wanted used as bombs later on. "...put some of these together. And get some tinkerers to work on some scopes."

The goblin looked him. "Aye. Oh, we got yer flyer here. Did some work on it, too. Installed some flak cannons and a proper bomb release on it. Maybe you'll be able to put it to good use, eh?"

Naheal nodded. "Good. And make good use of yourself. The harder and better you work, the more schematics you get, got it?"

"By who's eyes?"

"If Visca gives me so much as a gesture that he disapproves of what you're doing or thinks that you're not giving your all, I remove a schematic. And I start at the highest quality." The goblin grumbled. "There's the first."

"Yeah, yeah. I hear ye." The goblin scampered off.

Naheal then turned back to Draco. “Well, sir, it looks like my place is in the skies. With your permission, I'd like to lead a strike force to the Dead Scar. Finish off some of the Legion before they pose a real threat to us.”

[Visca]

Draco opened his mouth to answer before one of Draenei came in, “Vindicator Naheal? Vis time vor the Strike Force to meet Drill Sergeant Bahduum. Are you coming?”

Looking to where he heard that chilling tone, “Madam Fayntra!” a smile upon the Paladin’s face. “The battle is tomorrow, but… I suppose you would like to discuss strategy with us?” And with that he’d give a motion for her to stand over the table with the men before him. With that, he return to his work, “When the Strike Force moves into the Plateau, I will lead the Defending Wall. I suspect they will not allow us to keep the bridge easily. So, this is likely where the battle will be focused. I am thinking that we may want to use a decent portion of our goblin forces to help keep the bridge at bay; though… with the concerns on the Dead Scar… it might be a good idea to send our zeppelins there, allowing us a sort of flanking tactic. Luckily it seems that Naheal was able to recruit enough to allow us such an advantage.” Draco stared at the map for a moment, hm… he had overlooked the Dead Scar it seemed, that could have been dangerous.

[Ignas]

Ignas massaged the bridge of his nose as the burning sensation caused by lack of sleep returned to his eyes. A female Blood Elf approached, with General Visca greeting her as "Madame Fayntira". Ignas gave her a curt nod as she came nearer. A zeppelin flew overhead with Horde markings on the sides of the balloon and vessel. "Reinforcements from Orgrimmar?" Ignas inquired. Another Blood Elf began conversing with another Goblin, something about cannons, bombs, and other tools that the Draenei knew nothing of. An Aldor Vindicator referred to this one as "Vindicator Naheal". "Vindicator? He must be held in high regard with the Aldor." Ignas thought to himself, before turning back the the General.

"Sir, do your Mages know where this portal leads to? I would like to end up on solid ground, and not floating around in the Nether." As much work as possible would have to be done before any rest could come. Shattered Sun soldiers moved about the encampment with the utmost urgency, while the number of Horde and Alliance fighters steadily increased.

An Orc walked by, carrying a bundle of spears, while a Human came towards him, carrying a large pack. They continued walking past each other, one simply giving the other a short glance before going back to their task. No sword or axe was drawn. No hateful words were exchanged. They, for the most part, ignored each other. Perhaps it was the fact that the guards prohibited fighting in the encampment. Perhaps they were too focused on their tasks that they did not pay the other any attention. Regardless, the Horde and the Alliance was working together, however tense it may be. A slight smile came to Ignas' face as he turned to look at the map and hear the General's battle plans.

[Visca]

When Ignas asked about the Orcs, Draco could not help but to look outside… “Well… it seems our army is beginning to amass. Good, very good.” A smile spread on his face, it was good to see his people’s new allies were coming to their aid.

“I do understand the concern, Sir. Though we fail to have an exact location, as our scout has refused to return… I have been assured that it is somewhere in Dreanor and is safe for landing. The Astromancer has crafted some sort of device that will teleport you back to Shatterath, why he waited to tell us until now… I do not know. Perhaps he recently perfected it, or perhaps this is insubordination. Currently, I have no time to deal with either. When pass through that portal tomorrow, I want you to ensure that portal remains closed, we cannot afford to make a miscalculation in thinking it closed when it is not. I doubt that is the only location they will be using to summon more soldiers, but it seems the most immediate threat. I have no idea how long this will take you… but when finished, I do request you return and aid in keeping the bridge, it is imperative we keep it open for reinforcements in aiding our troops here,” Draco pointed to the red dot.

"Now, any more questions before you go to rest? We will need you at full strength tomorrow."

[Ignas]

Remembering the geography of Outland, Ignas stated "If it leads to Outland, and such a large force is expected to come through it, then it likely leads to Netherstorm, Hellfire Peninsula, or Shadowmoon Valley. Those seem to be the locations of the largest concentration of Legion forces. I can only hope we do not end up in the middle of a Forge Camp or Fel Reaver construction site. A recall of some kind would be very much appreciated, though I believe that we will be able to escape should events take a turn for the worst." This last sentence he said while patting a small pouch on his belt containing his Hearthstone.

Thinking for a few moments, the Draenei finally said "I only have one request for this mission. Please send with us at least four members of the Third Regiment of the Hand. They should have arrived today, and one of your Drill Sergeants should know which ones they are. It matters not which ones, as any four will do. Additionally, I would ask for a skilled technician, preferably one knowledgeable of Legion technology, but any one skilled in complex machines would be welcome. I believe that their assistance will be needed should we end up in a Forge Camp of some kind. That is all that I ask. You may send any others with us as you deem fit to send."

[Naheal]

Naheal stood at attention at before the Drill Sergeant.

"We will have two seperate attacks. We will assault the Dead Scar now and the Sunwell shortly after. Our scouts report that there's a Man'rii by the name of Brutallis there. You will be fighting your way through Scourge and Legion, so arm yourselves.

"The assault force will be leaving soon, be ready for combat. Dismissed." Naheal began to turn and walk away. "EXEPT for you, Vindicator." He stopped in his tracks and faced the Drill Sergeant, another Draenei Vindicator doing the same. "When you go, you will not be wearing the Aldor's colors. Your people have blasphemed enough and I will not be having such a blasphamy occuring on the front lines. You will have to earn that title in my eyes. For now, you are still a Bloo-"

The Drill Sergeant didn't finish the sentance. The Draenei that was beside Naheal stepped forward and punched him square in the mouth and yelled at him in Draenei, "You will show proper respect to a Vindicator, Sergeant! G'eras has chosen to bestow some of his grace to him. I've fought beside him and I can tell you that I would not be speaking to you now if it weren't for him. If there's one elf that has earned that title and those colors, it's him."

The Drill Sergeant wiped some blood from his lip. "Fine. Blaspheme if you should wish." The Drill Sergeant looked Naheal directly in the eyes. "You will not make it back if it is truly blasphamy, Malastar."

Naheal, not understanding a word of what was said aside from the last sentance, nodded. "Then we shall see if I truly am a warrior of the Naaru, sir."

"You will be on the first and second assaults, Malastar. We begin in an hour."

"Yes, sir."

[Visca]

“Before leaving, be sure to talk to the Astromancer then. As for your requests, take as many of those of the Hand as you need. As for the skilled engineer in such machinery… that part will be the most difficult. I shall tell you this; if you can find someone who does not already have an important assignment… then take them. Fair enough?”

Naheal already had his assignment; the only other engineer he knew was one was unable to attend… And the other he suspected was? She had seemed ill, and he didn’t want her life risked… he did hope Ignas could find someone though, though Draco never understood machinery himself…

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Back at the Manaforge, the Supervisor ran towards the Erader, giving him a salute, “Sir! The mana bomb is complete. We are awaiting orders to attune it.”

The Demon grinned massively, “Good… Very good. The Master will be pleased,” activating the sphere, “Adonis, begin proceeding to Sun’s Reach. You have ten minutes until the bomb is complete.”

[Kyrous Sunfeather]

Chaos, it was rampant with the plague and zombies running around. Leaving the local Wretched to his work on the crystal above Murder Row. Finally. No one to stop him. Imagine his glee! So he fed himself drunk on fel magics. Wonderful Fel magics!

A noise.

The Wrecthed, Kyrous, looked to see what it was.


A Magister! A delicious magister! He said something. “Yes master” was it?

With a flash of fel from his eyes, he halted from the crystal. Bigger Fish to fry. He always wanted to taste the mana from one. Lucky men. Kyrous had always wanted to be a magister, but no. His sister was sent to Dalaran. Not him. His beautiful sister. No, Kyrous had to stay and look over the Sunfeather ranch of Hawkstriders. Bless Arthas and his ripping through the land, freeing him from his doomed legacy. “Mana,” he said with a large grin as he prepared to stalk his prey.

The Magister held out a glowing orb, paying attention to it all too intently.


“Mana!” The Wretched exclaimed as he jumped right infront of the Magister. “Your Mana is mine!”
“No!” The magister screamed as the Wretched struck at him to drain his mana.
“Yesss!” The wretched screamed back as he struck the necklace inside before trying to mana tap.
The magister’s eyes went wide, “You don’t know what you’re doing!”
A moment too late. The Wrecthed had mana tapped the Magister’s soul stone, before his eyes went wide as well.



Blurry. Everything was blurry after he injected a second soul into him. Shattering both, leaving them both incomplete.

[Ignas]

"Very well, as soon as I have had a short rest I will begin my recruitment. With your permission Sir, I take my leave." Ignas gave the General a salute and walked out of the small building towards the harbor.

The keep near the Harbor was his destination. It served as an inn for the soldiers, and would be the place where he would rest for a while. He passed several Shattered Sun warriors who seemed to be having a discussion about an air strike to take place soon. Making his way through a small crowd to the back of the keep where the walls were open towards the harbor, he slowly sat down in one of the chairs near the railings. Several joints popped, and his back let out two loud cracks before he had completely settled into the chair. "I am getting too old for this." With a sigh, he retrieved a small flask of water from his pack and took a few refreshing quaffs of the delicious liquid. He loosened some of the straps on his armor to allow for more comfort. "Sleep would be welcome, but I must not be caught be surprise regardless of where I am. I know what I should do." he thought as placed his flask of water back in his pack.

Any regular passerby would have thought him to be sleeping, but it was only a facade to what was truly happening. He was meditating, in a state of tranquility. Still aware of his surroundings, but still receiving the much needed rest his body and mind ached for. The Holy Light flowed through his body, refreshing his muscles, his mind, his spirit. It would still take time to become fully refreshed, but it was much safer in such a volatile region. Thoughts rolled through his mind. "Remain disciplined. Remain vigilant. Do not hesitate. Conserve yourself. Concentrate."

[Visca]

And so, Draco allowed things to proceed as they were meant to. Soldiers were getting geared up and going through routine training, Officers were memorizing the battle plans, Patrols were set to prepare for any incursion…


Until that Evening, when Draco would say his last words until the morning to the troops While Draco spoke Orcish for his Horde comrades, a Vindicator was used to translate in Common.



“My dear Elves, Humans, Orcs, Trolls, Dreanei, Dwarfs, Gnomes, Tauren, Forsaken and Goblins… tomorrow we stand together against a threat that seeks to destroy us all. We stand united under the banner of the Shattered Sun Offensive, not as Horde or Alliance. We all have reasons for being here, whether it is for duty, for the protection of our loved ones, for the defense of our world, because it is the morally upright thing to do…” Draco eyed the goblins, “…Or for other means. Know that before you march on to defeat the Burning Legion for the Third Time in Azeroth’s History… I want you to know that I am Honored to be your General in the struggle to come. I am Honored to fight alongside you, my worthy comrades. I am Honored to be part of this chapter of history. We will persevere! Tomorrow we will drive back the might of the Burning Legion! This is the hour of triumph of the mortal races of Azeroth against an immortal threat. We will do what the enemy thinks impossible! We will cry in Victory!

For those who will not see the end, I want you to know… you will be honored. And in preparation of the worse, I request all members of this war to submit your information to tell your loved ones what happened. As much as I hate to admit it, our odds are great, and casualties may occur… I do pray it is none of those who stand in front of me in this moment, but if the worst is to come… I want to honor those who fall. Please, do not be discouraged in the thoughts of what may happen, but be encouraged by the fact that you will be honored even if it were to come to such. That we will tell those who love you, and aid them in comfort for those killed in action.

Rest well, Ladies and Gentlemen. Tomorrow we make history; tomorrow we drive back a force that would otherwise consume our beloved planet. And remember, in my view… all of you are heroes. All of you deserve a reverence, an honor for being brave enough to stand in defense of all.”


With that Draco moved back into the building again, hoping his rally was enough… Draco knew he had a lot of work to do… His armor and shield needed polishing, his sword needed sharpening… And his soul needed illumination from the Light one last time…


The Storm had come. At long last, the Order of Eversong was to succeed in their goals. The rebellion was almost over.

[Agnarr]

Sleep meant little to the old Forsaken warrior. The undead do not need to rest, after all. Agnarr walked the grounds throughout the night. He would catch small tidbits of conversation here and there, many in languages he did not comprehend. Though it was quiet overall, he knew that few actually slept this night.

Draco's words were nice, and as comforting as mere words could be. As Agnarr glanced about at the gathered army set up in various tents or simply laying beneath the glowing moons, he knew many of these would not be returning from whatever it was they would face on the morrow.

It was sad that it would take something so dire to cause these various races to cooperate. Old hatreds die hard. Sighing, the Forsaken warrior looked around, holding his torch up. Through the legions of Blood Elf Scyers and Draenei Aldo, Agnarr searched for one particular troll.

[Visca]

Draco was awake as the sun rose, the fiery orb that his race revered. He had been busy, trying to focus and attune himself as far into the Light as he could for this battle.

Today. Today ended a chapter of the Blood Elves in one form or another. This very morning, history was to be made. As he opened his eyes from the very little sleep he had gained, he could see his hand shaking. Today he controlled Azeroth’s fate. If he succeeded, the Burning Legion would be forced away from their world once again. If he failed… the consequences were Much more dire. He held everyone’s lives here at his command, and the pressure was great. He would either leave here a victor, or die in the process. “By the Light, I pray… shield us all, and allow us to become the blades of retribution. Allow me to guide with the strength and wisdom of my father, allow me to fulfill the Visca Oath.” He sighed before three Blood Elves came into the tent.

“Sir, it is time.”

“Yes, yes it is.” Draco said with a sigh, allowing the Light to ease the burden… at least on the outside. “Today, we make history.”

With a walk out the tent and up to the Statue that stood to tribute those who had fallen already, and those that would fall today… Draco stood on it, surrounded by troops of all races. Banners of Horde and Alliance… Today, today was the end of a chapter… and Light willing, the beginning of a new one… A brighter one.

“Those who stand before me now, I salute you.” Now was not the time for a speech. Now was the time for Action. Lowering a helm on his head for the first time in who knew how long… He nodded to Drill Sergeant Bahduum, “On your mark.” Behind him was the Strike Force assembled, the ones that held hope for them all.

“You heard the elf! Go Go Go!!!”

Getting on Draco’s horse, he’d smile under his helm, as the drums of war beat from the Horde, and the Alliance blew their trumpets. With sword and shield drawn, Draco gave his battle cry in Thalnassain as he charged behind the team that took towards the gates of the Sunwell:



“Today is Judgment Day!
Let our shields be strong! Our Swords sharp! And our Bows at the ready!
Let what comes, come!
The Light is on our side, now… March my brothers in arms!
For the Sin’dore!
For Quel’thas!
For the Order of Eversong!”



The Final Crusade was here.

[Taknar]

Taknar turned his head to look behind him as he hear the sounds of drums beating and trumpets wailing. He'd lost track of how long he'd been out from camp chasing down the demons. He stopped for a moment to lean on his benediction staff. Night had come and gone, he knew that much. Taknar had to sing Hymns of Hope the whole night, just to stay awake and refreshed. It was just a matter of how long the morning sun had been beating on his back. Taking the weight off his staff, he waved his hand in the air behind him, wiping away the useless thoughts. It didn't matter how long he'd been out, he told himself. All that mattered was getting the demons off the island, and back to the Twisting Nether where they belonged.

He continued walking, smiting small imps and calling fire down on larger ones as he past them. The infernals had thankfully stopped following him. He cackled out loud at the thought of those large and bulking pieces of fiery rock huddling in terror at the thought of facing off against the old troll. Because of their absence though, the ground here was softer. It felt moist between the toes of Taknar's sandals, and as he continued to walk forward he could smell something releasing from the ground where his foot left. It was the odor of decay. The grass here was dying.

Taknar looked up and around at his surroundings. Caught in between two of the Elven buildings, Taknar could only see the path in front of him. The shoreline spanned in front of him, largely untouched by the warfare happening on the north side of the island. It would be nice, he thought, for the Blood Elves to return to this. The breeze ran through the trees, cuddling leaves as they fell to the ground on the sand only to be picked up by the gentle ocean tide. Further on the left though, the trees became more and more sparse, and they were blackened as well. The ground turned to a muddy black colour, with hints of glowing green grass struggling to hold on. Taknar knew at once what he was looking at; the border of the Dear Scar. The look of the land wasn't surprising after that realization, but the events taking place on the strand were. Hundreds of undead ghouls marched up the Scar, combating the demons there. He never would have suspected that the Scourge would be fighting the Burning Legion there. Especially now.

He crept up to the crudely assembled spike fence that separated the safer area of the scar from the part where the battle was now taking place. Up above he could see elves and draenei on the backs of Dragonhawks, bombing the demons where they stood and any undead that happened to be in the way. He could hear the call from up above that the leader seemed to be shouting. "Focus on the demons," she called out to the squad that followed her. "We aren't interested in the Scourge today!" That was fine for them, he thought to himself as he cackled to himself. "Dis troll be bein' mo' den ahnough interested fa da bot' ah us, child."



- *** -



Karryn stopped swinging her axe for a moment to reassess her situation. Her ghouls had gotten far enough up the island that the legion felt the need to make wall of blazing fire to block her progression. She was fine with that though. There were more than enough demons to kill on this side. She could deal with the wall when there was nothing demanding her focus on this side of it.

A shot of fire slammed into the ground in front of her, bringing her attention back to the immediate fight. Following the path it traveled, she could see some of the Eredari magic users were attacking from the crumbling walls of the elven buildings around them. Not wanting them to feel left out of the fight, she called six ghouls to her side and charged the nearest wall. The ghouls leaped up ahead of her, catching the large demon by surprise. Karryn followed up with a blast of ice to its head, forcing the sorceror to lean back against the wall and brace itself.

"Focus on the demons! We aren't interested in the Scourge today!"

Karryn looked up as she heard the shout. Elves and blue eredar were teamed up together, tossing bombs down onto her battlefield. If the elves were with these blue eredar, then they must be Legion followers. But they also were attacking the Legion demons that she was. Something here didn't make sense. Her King had not told her of this. This was unexpected.

She leapt back off the ledge in time to watch a bomb drop right on the sorcerer that she had been hitting. Pieces of eredar flesh mingled with the flesh of the dead as both the sorcerer and the ghouls flew out in pieces from the bomb's explosion. She looked up to the sky in anger and prepared to reach out and pluck one of the bombers from the sky with her power. As Karryn reached out though, she was thrown off guard by the sound of laughter coming from the west. It was a deep laugh, nearly forceful, that echoed off buildings and ground alike to reach her. She used to dream of that laugh; cruel nightmares of hard work and little reward under the eye of one tall, conniving, despicable, old troll.

“Taknar!!” she cried out in anger. She turned to her left and seeing the purple haired troll yanked him over to him. A surprised yelp escaped from between the old troll’s tusks as he felt Karryn’s power grab onto him. Taknar jumped up and back from where he landed, faster than Karryn had expected, and threw up a defensive shield.

“’ho be dis dat be knowin’ dis troll’s name?” he asked as he held his staff in front of himself protectively. Karryn could nearly feel his eyes probing, looking for something to recognize. It hadn’t occurred to her how much her appearance had changed since serving the Lich King until now. Not that it had ever mattered before. Taknar’s bewilderment from the change didn’t seem to last long though, as he backed off and continued to speak. “Nah… Kar Ryn?”

“It’s Karryn, you stupid old fool!” she shouted in response. Even after so many months that they had spent together, the old troll couldn’t get his head around the pronunciation.

“Child… wha’ be ‘appenin’ ta ya? Ya be bein’ changed. Ya skin be paleah, ya ‘air be blue now. Ya eyes be bein’ blue now, too! Ya be tradin’ ya robes ‘nd staff fa full plate armah ‘nd ahxe.”

“I’ve improved. I became what I needed to become a leader. Look at me now! See how that in a few short months, I have gained what you couldn’t teach me in over a year. My army marches at my command; they look to me for guidance and support. They need me!”

“Dey be needin’ ya? Dese mindless creatures be seekin’ orders, nah guidance. Ya be ‘avin’ nah ahmy, jus’ tools.”

“It’s still more than I had under your tutelage!” Karryn shouted as she stepped forward towards the priest. “You didn’t teach me a damn thing! Just bossed me around! Clean this, fix that! Never did you teach me about leadership, or how to herd my tribe. You never taught me how to get them to even listen to me!”

In a move that surprised Karryn, Taknar stepped forward to meet her face to face. She wasn’t used to opponents that didn’t cower from her. “Da true lessons be bein’ dere if ya be bein’ wise ‘nough ta be takin’ dem in! Ya be seekin’ ta boss ya people ‘round, ‘nd ta be in da glorious position ah leadah. But ya be bein’ young, child. Young ‘nd ignorant. Da priestess, she be leadin’ be servin’ ‘er people. Dis be bein’ da lesson dat ah be wantin’ fa ya ahll ahlon’.”

“Enough!” Karryn screamed as she brought her axe around to come down on Taknar. “No more of this nonsense!”

Taknar dodged to the right, and sent uttered a dark word of pain. Karryn started to feel the effects at once, the small numbing sensation in the back of her head. But she knew priest tactics and customs, and best of all she knew Taknar. She could tell that his powerful shield was beginning to fade, and she would make the best of it.

She stepped back and breathed in deep, pulling icy blue tendrils out of the land around her. A moment later, and the ground around her was slick and cold. The ground where the old priest stood solidified quickly, continuing up his body until he was incased in a block of solid ice. She could see the defenseless priest’s face as recognition set in, and his protective ward vanished.

Reaching a hand towards the frozen troll, she clenched her fist and saw a mimicking reaction from Taknar’s neck. The heavy block holding him in place shattered, but there would be no chance for him to cast any protective spells while the strangulation took effect. Karryn rushed in with her axe, making cut after cut against the old priest’s taught skin. She would only have a few moments before her power choking Taknar would fade, and she reached out her hand towards one of her ghouls in preparation.

The ghoul instantly fell to the ground as Karryn grinned. Her skin became more sickly, decayed, and her visage became more fearsome. So when Taknar was able to cackle again, Karryn just giggled and sighed.

“Your Psychic Scream won’t work on me, oldy!” she said with her gravelly echoing voice. Another good axe hit to his leg took Taknar down to one knee. She saw him raise his hand in a greenish glow, and knew he was trying to renew his strength. One quick move to her left followed by a sickly brown glowing axe to Taknar’s right sapped the strength right out of the restorative spell. Blow upon blow she threw at him, and she could see him weakening. He was attempting to block the blows with him staff now, and she laughed heartily as she hooked her axe under it and tossed it aside.

“I have you right where I want you now, dear Taktak.” she snarled, putting a venomous emphasis on his common nickname. She raised her axe high, preparing to strike. “I hope the Loas are kinder than you were to me.”

“Nah child,” Taknar responded calmly. “Dis troll be ‘avin’ ya.”

Karryn brought the axe down, and could feel the blade bite into the priest’s skin. She smiled a satisfied smile. And then was knocked onto her back by a blinding white light. Blinking furiously while she propped herself up on her elbows, she looked up at where Taknar was kneeling before she struck. There was no sign of the troll, no robes or corpse could be found. All that remained was a large transparent angel. The angel’s face bore sadness, as if it had been watching the entire affair and mourned the fate of the old troll.

Karryn stood up, shook the dirt off her saronite armour, and walked over to where she had knocked away Taknar’s staff. The benediction staff shone brightly, its golden headpiece shining with sparkles of magical light. The sparkles created a trail of light as Karryn picked up the staff and tucked it away into one of her bags. As she turned around to return to her battle with the demons, she grinned and wondered where she would keep her newest trophy.

[Ignas]

The sun had barely begun to shine over the horizon when Ignas began searching for the recruits. The Staging Area was buzzing with activity, preparing for the final push set to occur in mere hours. After walking for a short while, he remembered that he had not seen Skaadvik since the previous day. "He must have gone to rest" the Draenei concluded. Thinking again, he remembered that the Troll had disappeared as well. "No matter, there are more pressing matters to attend to." Members of the Hand were not difficult to find and, after asking around for short while, Ignas found the ones that he was looking for.

The Hand had divided its ranks being sent for the Offensive into regiments. The First and Second regiments consisted mostly of freelance Vindicators and Anchorites who were the first to answer the call to combat the Legion. The Third regiment was composed of those who had spent a long time combating Legion forces in Outland. This pattern was used for all future regiments should the numbers become available.

Four Vindicators and an Anchoress volunteered for the mission. The Anchoress was a welcome addition as she had been stationed in Netherstorm to aid the Aldor. While there, she had gained some knowledge on Legion technology. The inquisitive nature of the Goblins had given her opportunities to see firsthand what some of the Fel machines were capable of. "Although, I am not very skilled at technological machines. If we do come across such a mechanism I doubt I will be able to manipulate it to serve a purpose, not without a skilled engineer to aid me." she admitted, watching a passing Goblin carrying a small crate. "No matter." Ignas said, "I have full permission from the General to recruit any who are able to aid us in this mission." Looking out in the crowd of various soldiers preparing for battle in the early morning light, Ignas spoke to the small group "Meet back here in an hour. Prepare yourselves if necessary. I will do some more scouting for any others to aid us." With that, Ignas began walking towards the forge.

Every Goblin Ignas spoke to either asked for large amounts of gold, was busy with another task, or said that they were a Bruiser. The Draenei was nearly ready to give up his search for an engineer when a Gnome rode by on a Mechanostrider, obviously in a hurry, and made a swift leap from his mount into the building nearest the forges. An impressive display of acrobatics to say the least. "Perhaps I have been looking in the wrong places..." The Draenei made his way to the building. Once inside, he noticed that there were quite a few Gnomes and some Dwarves busy packing crates full of objects unfamiliar to him. The Gnome that had just entered the building was now making his way back outside. Helped by another Gnome and a Dwarf, they loaded two crates onto the Mechanostrider. Once they were secured, he left at full speed towards his next destination. Ignas looked back the group of Gnomes, two of them sealing a crate. "Well, that's the last of them." a younger looking Gnome wearing light cloth robes and a cap with a small puffy ball on top said to another. The other was older looking, with what appeared to be a technicians outfit and a metal helmet possessing many odd appliances and tools, one of the them spinning. He also wore thick goggles.

"Excuse me, but would either if you two gentlemen know where I can locate a skilled engineer? One who is not busy at the moment?" the Draenei asked the two Gnomes. They both looked up at him, the elder speaking up rather quickly "Well, we're free for now. We just finished up the last batch of charges to be used on the air strikes." The younger added "Yeah, we've made some special modifications to the charges to increase energy output by 36.5% which should be sufficient to bring down even the toughest of Pit Lords!"

"Ah, very well. If it is not too much, we will be needing some skilled engineers for a special mission to-" The Gnomes cut him off with excited chatter. "Hear that!? A special mission!" "Say no more, my big, blue, friend. We'll gladly lend our assistance for your mission."

"Er... alright. Take your time to prepare yourselves and meet me at the keep in a short while." Both of the Gnomes nodded and began talking amongst themselves. The odd metal cap the elder Gnome was wearing let out a little whistle and a few sparks flew out from the back. The Gnomes seemed to ignore it. "I... I think your hat... what does it do?" asked the Draenei. "It electrocutes anyone who tries to read my mind." The Gnome said it as if it was completely obvious. Ignas simply nodded and moved outside. "Light protect me..."

----------------------------------------------------------

After the preparations had been made, the group had begun to assemble outside the keep again. Now they looked more like a group better suited for the task at hand. Joining the six Draenei and two Gnomes were a plethora of various races of numerous trades. Some were soldiers and warriors, some were rangers and rogues, several bombardiers and marksmen, a few magi and warlocks, a druid and some shamans, and a few more paladins and priests. Members of both the Horde and Alliance were working together, begrudgingly in some cases, to fight the common enemy. They numbered nearly half as strong as the Strike Force to be sent in to fight on the Sunwell, but they were just as determined. One of the magi, a human, passed small crystals out to the group. A Draenei fluent in Orcish translated "These are to be used to escape should the Legion overrun us. They will teleport you back to this keep. Our primary objective is to shut down that portal. I suppose that is why we have the Gnome engineers." "That's right! We've got a few surprises tucked away here." The elder Gnome said this while patting a robot with legs and a large dome-shaped body. Some who were near the Gnomes moved away slowly, giving a large space between them and the machine.

Now joining with the full force of the Shattered Sun Offensive, they stood ready to move into the Dawning Square and assault the portal. The General stood near the stature, the Monument to the Fallen, and gave his final words to the army. The Strike Force moved out. The morning sun shone down on the land. Ignas took one last look around, as if searching for something. The General's final shout captured his attention and he focused on what was ahead. The next second seemed like minutes, before, finally, he took his first step of the charge to the portal. Thoughts ran through his head, like a massive blur but still able to see everything clearly. The time was now. No turning back. "No, never turn back. Complete the mission or fall. We must not fail."

[Naheal]

Naheal stared down from his flying machine, surveying the destruction. He had been assigned to assist in bringing down the pit lord Brutallis. He watched helplessly as the Death Knight brought her axe down on a friend, Taknar. No. Tak! He closed his eyes. This.... is wrong. We have to end this now before it's too late.

Fireballs flew around him. Alright. Mourn later. Finish the fight now. He dove in an assault on the demons. His flight had listened to his order, but they weren't following him. They had tossed bombs down on the demons, but they weren't even weakening Brutallis himself. We'll have to take him on foot. Wait. A. Minute. He stared down at the Death Knight. She may be an enemy, but she could just as easily be a tool for now. I can avenge Taknar later. Have her shield us. He smirked. Yes. That's it. Clear her path to him.

He let out another yell. "The Scourge seem to be after our same enemy. Clear their path. Watch each other's backs."

[Agnarr]

"Elvish superiority," Agnarr muttered in gutterspeak, hearing Draco babble some nonsense in the language of the blood elves. Glancing over the gathered forces, he saw a large number of elves gathered, but equally as large a number of others. The Forsaken warrior shrugged it off, not really surprised after his experiences with the race as a whole. Agnarr sat atop his talbuk, earned through much time and blood spent in the defense of the Mag'har of Draenor, and now he would stand in defense of Azeroth as a whole.

Taknar had gone missing, but the warrior had little time to search the area as he was needed for something bigger than one lone troll. Though he was determined to find him after the events of the day were ended. And those events were now upon him.

Sliding the helmet on that had protected him on many occasions in the darkest and most dangerous parts of Draenor, Agnarr kicked at the talbuk and charged forward into the fray.

[Naheal]

Fireballs continued to swirl around him, falling to the Scourge below and flying towards him. It's starting to get hot in here... He pulled a small communication device from his console and spoke, "Anchorite Daila, spread word to our forces. Brutallis will be down shortly. Begin the assault on the Sunwell. And, give word to the members of the Raven Cross. The troll priest named Taknar has fallen. There's nothing I can do to bring him back to us."

A female draenei voice came back through his end, "Heard loud and clear, Vindicator. I will give word to the Raven Cross. Will you be assisting in the assault?"

"If I can get out of here soon enough. Don't count on it, though. It's way too hot for me to p--" His words were cut off as he was hit with a fireball from above him. The blast bewildered him for a moment, and he lost focus.

"Vindicator!? Naheal! Malastar! Come in!"

"I'm here." He looked around, surveying the damage. "Daila, I'm not coming back. I took a hit to my engines and I'm venting fuel. I'm going to make sure that Brutallis comes down. Send my reguards to our General when this is all over."

"Naheal? What are you going to do?"

"Well, I've got enough explosives mounted on this thing to put quite a bit of hurt on Brutallis himself, if it doesn't kill him. I can't shield myself, though, so..."

"I understand. The Light and the Aldor will remember your sacrifice, paladin."

Naheal smiled. "I'm not a paladin." He switched off his com and armed all his explosives. Focusing on Brutallis, he pushed his engines to their limit.

* * *

The heat from multiple rapid explosions could be felt across the Isle. Daila looked up towards the cloud, closed her eyes and bowed her head. "Sleep well, dear friend." She patted a book beside her. One which she had given Naheal on his path to search for the Light of the Naaru when he had first come to the Aldor. "I'll give this to our General, as you asked."

She stood and started out towards the general's quarters. A man searching for the Light who insisted that he wasn't a Paladin. She smiled. My friend, not only did you find the Light, but you used it. Your title of Vindicator was earned. You saved my life as well as the lives of many others. Yet, you insisted to the very end that you were not a paladin. Daila closed her eyes and breathed a prayer. "The Light has lost one of it's champions today. May he find peace."

As she entered the General's quarters, she remembered words that he had said to her the day before....

"I'm a traitor to my people, Daila. They see that, they believe it. But, that may have been what was needed to show them the Light. Please, ensure it doesn't die."

"I will do what I can, Naheal."

[Ignas]

The portal in Dawning Square was overrun with demons. Fiends, Shivarra, Doomguards, covered the area. Shouts in their demonic tongues filled the air, mixed with the cries of the mortal races during the assault. The Shattered Sun soldiers kept a tight formation; no one was to be separated or they would be ripped to shreds by the demons. Ignas hefted his hammer at a Shivan that had moved too close. The hammer glowed with Holy energy as it contacted with her torso, causing her to fall to the ground. The Draenei lifted his hammer above his head, ready to bring it down on her skull, but a Tauren beat him to the she-devil. Her skull was pierced by his spear and violently ripped out leaving a torn mess on the ground. Another demon, a fiend, sped towards them, using its wings to quicken its pace. Still ready to strike, Ignas swung the second the demon was within reach. He caught the fiend on the skull, one of its horns snapping off and flying into the air. The demon fell to the ground and did not move. A Night Elf huntress watched the horn fly through the air, but something in the sky caught her eye. "Incoming! Infernal rain! Everyone move forward!"

The Infernals rained down upon the Square. Demons were not even safe from them. The entire area echoed with the sound of crashes and explosions. The roars of the fel constructs sounded across the field. The force assaulting the portal was split into several groups. As the groups tried to reunite, Ignas found himself with the Gnomes and their 'special weapon'. "Draenei! We can't let anything hit this! It could destroy this entire area. Half the Island maybe!" An Infernal marched towards them, smashing a Dwarf not quick enough to move out of its path. An Orc shaman was nearby. Ignas yelled in Orcish "Bring it down! Destroy it!" while pointing to the Infernal. The Orc nodded and called upon the Spirits of Lightning. Ignas threw a hammer of golden Light at the stone creature, pieces of its body chipping away and its pace faltering. The Orc let the power of Lightning loose upon the creature, striking it in the torso causing its arms and head to explode with tremendous force. It fell over as a pile of rubble. Ignas spoke to the Orc "Translate." He then yelled in the Common tongue "Protect the machine! It must not be touched by the demons!" Attention was brought to other threats on the Gnome's machine. The Shaman and Paladin kept other demons from getting to it as others rallied to them. The first wave of Infernals was being dealt with. Their arrival had destroyed a large number of demons in the area. The same Night Elf huntress that called out the Infernals asked "What is that thing? What does it do?" keeping her eyes to the sky. "Well, to put it simply..." one of the Gnomes said while loading a disk-shaped device into another contraption, "it's essentially a rocket with enough power to obliterate a small city." The Gnome activated the launcher which sent the disk towards the portal. It skidded along the ground and stopped right at the portal border. "It has a lot of power, but it's not very accurate for long-range attacks." Several demons passed through the portal, one of them stepping on the disk. A large explosion erupted at the portal incinerating any demons nearby, maybe even a few on the other side. The demons stopped passing through for a short moment.

The remaining forces rallied together around the rocket. Demons resumed charging through the portal. Marksmen, magi, and any others able to take them out from afar did so as best they could. Demons from around the area pressed the group on all sides. The Legion forces were closing in. "We have to get through the portal and set that thing off." a Forsaken cutthroat said while pointing at the rocket.

"Kil'jaeden's patience wears thin! Destroy the Naaru's lackeys once and for all! Slay the mortals! Slay them ALL!!"

A massive Wrathguard stood at the entrance to the the portal as more demons passed through behind him. Shivarra formed lines and hurled bolts of fire and shadow at the huddled group. Wards were placed as fast as possible. Many were falling. The Legion was gaining control of the situation. "Heads up! More Infernals incoming!" Greater numbers came this time, with a larger concentration on the center of the battlefield. "Move it! Move it!" "Clear the area!" Yells in Orcish and Common spread through the group. Ignas grabbed the rocket, along with a Tauren, Orc, and Human and hefted it further from the portal. The Infernals landed, completely destroying any still in the field. The rocket was placed closer the bridge, where Shattered Sun marksmen kept a steady rain of arrows and shot to keep the demons at bay for as long as possible. "Why can' we jes' blast the thing through the portal?" a Dwarf asked. "We are too far! It doesn't have the power! It can't go too far." "It doesn't even have any fins for stability! If we could keep it stable then it could make it to the portal, but not too far beyond!" the Gnomes yelled in outraged voices. Ignas looked at the Tauren still holding the rocket, who had asked a Blood Elf what was being said. "If we can hold it steady can we hit the portal?" the Human asked, a soldier by the looks of his armor. "I... I suppose so, but... there is no guarantee... of it hitting or your survival." The Orc, a younger female, simply said "Do it." in Common. The Tauren nodded with grim determination. The Human looked from Ignas to the Gnomes before nodding as well. The Draenei closed his eyes before saying in a low voice "It has been an honor. Light protect us." The Gnomes began working on the rocket as the demons pressed through the offensive rain of arrows and spells.

"You fear death? Far worse awaits you should you fail! Push forward and slay the mortals!" the Wrathguard yelled at the demons charging across the field. The Gnomes had finished, and protective wards and shields were being placed on the rocket and its guides. "This must succeed. We can not fail. The Legion will be stopped at this point." the Human said. One of the Gnomes said "We have calibrated it to accommodate your weight. There should be enough power to make it to the portal and shortly beyond, so you should have time to let go... assuming everything goes as planned." Nothing was said. "Ready?" Again, only silence. The guides nodded once. "Light be with you." The rocket was lit.

The sudden explosion of the boosters caught the demons by surprise. The first lines were broken through easily. Whenever the rocket veered in one direction, the Tauren or Ignas would dig in their hooves while the Orc woman or Human pulled it towards themselves to keep it stable. The Wrathguard leader stood in front of the portal to Outland "What is this!? Stop that thing at once!" Any demon in front of the rocket was barreled over or ripped in half. Infernals stood in the way, but even they were no match for the thrusting engine. The protective wards kept it from detonating too early. "Move out of my way! I'll stop it myself!" the Wrathguard said as he held two massive axes ready to swing down upon the rocket and its guides. The battle cries could be heard across the decimated field. "Lok'tar Ogar!" "For the Light!" The rocket bore down upon its target, the portal and the one in the way. A sudden burst from the thrusters surprised the Wrathguard. He was struck in the abdomen with the rocket and, with the four guides, passed through the portal.

Demons no longer passed through the portal in Dawning Square.

[Visca]

“Move! Move! Move!” Draco shouted in both of the faction tongues, “We must take and keep the bridge! To let it slip through our fingers is to fail!” He had to make sure they knew just how important this was. Taking the bridge was the key objective to allow the forces through.

“The Master will not be pleased if we let them through!” A leader of the Dawnblade Archers shouted from above. “Ready! Aim! Fire! For Kael’thas!” The rain of arrows would start; constant shouts to keep the waves of projectiles would be in the air.

“Shield yourselves!” Draco shouted as he saw the first waves come down, still on his skeleton war steed; he drew his defensive weapon close. “Marksmen! Magi! Take them down!!” To prove his point, Draco launched his shield as far as he could, taking out one of the war callers.

“Ready! Aim! Fi—ugh!”

Rapid explosions made the ground shudder under them. The ground heating up, between the demons and arrows though, concerns were less prevalent on what that could be. One solider asked, “What was that?” only to get a short response from the General.

“I do not know. But, keep your eyes on the objective!” They were only about half way before Infernals fell from the sky and onto the bridge to create a new barrier they had to overcome. “Keep the strike force safe! We cannot afford them to be injured.” Another explosion would be caught from the corner of Draco’s eye, causing him to turn a moment to see. “Good job Ignas! We have more work to do!” he cheered for a moment before turning to see himself charged by a Dawnblade, decapitating him. This is taking far too long… there must be a way to clear the bridge quicker…

[Agnarr]

He charged through the attackers, targeting the closest infernal and slammed his shield into its torso. Shouting, he stomped at the ground and sent a shockwave out in front of him. He swung his weapon around widely, knocking rocky fragments of the few nearest infernals loose.

The damage wasn't enough to destroy any of them, but it did earn Agnarr their attention. Using the momentum of his charge, the Forsaken warrior continued through the large group of infernals, hacking as he ran. Holding his shield before him, he carved a narrow path through the center of the demonic ranks. The demons were foolish enough to follow him as he forced his way across the bridge.

Reaching the end of the bridge, Agnarr dropped to the ground and slid under one final infernal, climbing to his feet behind it. It turned quickly, and lashed out at the warrior. Agnarr easily blocked that attack, and as expected, more attacks started to come as the other infernals gathered around him.

He only hoped he could last long enough for the main force to come in from behind, as the infernals were now sandwiched between the lone warrior and the attacking forces, backs exposed to the larger force.

[Visca]

More Dawnblades poured from the gate to the Sunwell, increasing the difficulty of progress.

There has to be something! He noticed the Forsaken slipping past the infrenals, Impressive… but if he does not get our aid soon… then he will die. Draco thought to himself, progress was far too slow. “Pull back, we’ll send in the golems.” He told the people on the front line with him who proceeded to give his order still. I do hope he can keep himself safe until then.

"Pull back! Pull back!”

Hold out as long as you can, Warrior. We will be there soon. He looked at him from the distance, focusing the light to give him a blessing to aid in combat. Draco hated the idea of leaving someone behind.

[Taknar]

Karryn glanced up in time to see the flock of dragonhawks over the Dead Scar peel off from their trajectory and watched as the lone remaining flier in the sky held course to land straight in the chest of the large demon known as Brutalis. The wall of fire went down as the hulking demon roared in pain, clutching the spot where the small flier crashed into him in an explosion of sparks and fire. He turned away from the scar, retreating deeper into the safety of the plateau.

"We have the scar," Karryn called out around her to the ghouls carrying out her bidding. "Finish up the demons!"

She raced up the scar, finishing off weakened sorcerors and minor imps on her way to where the wall of fire fell. Karryn was eager to finish up the job here and return to Acherus under her Lord's bidding. She arrived at the wall and the first thing she noticed was another barrier, magicial green this time, blocking of Brutalis' escape route. However, that didn't concern her as much. Soon they would have the dead scar, and that's all she was commanded to take. Without further instruction, she could return home for more assignments.

Looking over her shoulder, Karryn noticed a pile of metal scraps. It must have been the spot where the lone pilot had fallen, she thought to herself. Upon closer inspection, she found the pilot lying on the ground, covered in blood and burns. He body was deformed; his bones must have broken in the fall. However, he looked to be alright. A glowing shield, unlike the one used by priests, surrounded his body and protected him. Karryn grined with anticipation.

"This shouldn't take long," she said aloud to herself as she hauled the man, a blood elf she could now tell, away from the wreckage. She raised her axe high and came down on the creature's neck, but the blade was stopped short by the shield. The barrier around the elf shone a deep blue that mimiced ripples of water running away from a dropped pebble. Karryn struck again and again, and with each blow the colour of the blue shimmer faded slightly. Finally, she spun the blade around her in a wide arc and using that momentum slammed the axe down and shattered the barrier, although she still fell short of man's skin.

"One last cut and it all falls down," Karryn said as she giggled.

"BRING THE ELF TO AMAL'THAZAD. HE WAITS FOR THE BODY. GO NOW."

The loud voice ringing in her head stopped Karryn as she rose the axe above her head, preparing for her final slice. With a disappointed frown, she dropped her axe to her side then placed it on her back. Grabbing one of the elf's legs, she started her way down the dead scar dragging him behind her.

Stupid lich, he'll get his body she thought to herself angrily, disappointed that her kill had been denied her. Maybe I'll forget to maintain a path of frost for the elven fool though.

[Ignas]

Silence. That was all Ignas could hear after leaving the portal, for a moment. "What... the..." The sound of the Human's voice brought the Draenei's attention to full focus. They had made it through the portal, about ten paces, before the rocket had sputtered and stopped. The wrathguard that they had hit was curled in the fetal position on the ground groaning while, one could only imagine, thousands and thousands of demons stood in front of them in about as much confusion as the mortals were. The demons were lined up, ready to charge through the portal and assault Quel'danas. For about one second, every single creature in the area thought the same thing the Human said just a moment before. "The Gnome's weapon didn't WORK!" the Human exclaimed, his voice growing in volume as he went on. He pulled his tattered cloak free from a fold of metal on the rocket causing a piece of the case to fall off. "Back through the portal!" the Orcess said, but they were too late. The Gan'arg controlling the mechanisms sustaining the portal had shut it down. With the portal now gone it was possible to see that a short distance behind the machines was a ledge. The sky was clear and stars were visible. But what stood out most was a swirling green river of energy in the sky. They were in Hellfire Peninsula atop the mountain named the Throne of Kil'jaeden.

An Eredar yelled "Why is everyone just standing around? Why are our forces still..." he stopped, looking at the four mortals. "Well, it seems that we have some guests. I do believe that the Doom Lord will be most pleased to meet them." he said with a menacing grin. Ignas grabbed his hammer and held it ready to strike the rocket. Yelling as loud as he could "One strike to the... this thing and the entire mountain will be turned to rubble!" The Human was inspecting the area of the rocket now revealed by his frustrated attempts to free his cloak. A small click was heard followed by a very fast beeping sound. The other three turned to look at the Human, who had just flipped a switch. "Oh, hey, the Gnomes didn't turn it on. How about that?" he said with a smile, which quickly disappeared as he realized what he just said. "Detonation in fifteen seconds" the rocket said. "Wait, did it just..." There was no time to answer. The Human and Ignas were already running while the Tauren had to shove the Orc woman to move before the bomb, which is what the Gnomes had actually made, went off. The sound of demons charging after them echoed around the mountain, their yells and roars deafening. The mortals had made it to the ledge. It was steep, there was no path and nothing to grab for support. The ledge below was not too far. They jumped. Ignas closed his eyes for a second, the world going black. Then, what can only be described as sound physically striking him and taking his breath away caused every fiber, every muscle, his entire body to move and contort in ways that he could not even describe. It was as if everything could be heard at once, then nothing at all. The darkness Ignas had begun his jump in changed to a bright white world of nothing.

[Agnarr]

Blow after blow pummeled away at Agnarr's shield. He wasn't trying to fight back too much, instead concentrating on his defense. He knew that the attack force would be there in mere moments to take down the infernals from behind. They had to come.
Agnarr ducked under one wide swing, and spinning around brought his shield up hard into the upper torso of an infernal. It staggered back, briefly, but long enough for Agnarr's hopes to dwindle.

The attack force was retreating.

Narrowing his eye, the Forsaken warrior let out a loud challenge to all who could hear. "You shall not defeat a warrior of the Forsaken so easily, demons! Let me see what you've really got!"

He intended to survive this battle. And he intended to remove the throat of the paladin that called for a retreat when the tide was starting to turn.

[Keraph]

The battle was far from over, and already Cerryan was tested by the sheer amount of people to protect. His golden armor glowed with light as another of his spells was cast, and healing energies refreshed the injured fighter he was focused on. Not far away, another two were brought down by their injuries, nearly dead. Light aid me, there are so many... A holy prayer and another healing spell had them both back on their feet, their wounds regenerating simultaniously. Elsewhere were the paladin's attentions turned, closing wounds and strenghtening the fighters. There was no shortage of people in need of aid, but he had to trust that the other healers would take care of what he did not. The line was moving again, and he was being sure to stay close to Draco.

"Pull back, we'll send in the Golems! Pull back, pull back!" There was a warrior, a Forsaken that seemed to resemble an impenitrable wall of steel, who was being left behind as the line pulled back. Cerryan was about to protest the order, to go back and help him, but then he felt the ground rumble beneath his feet. More enemies? No, wait...

The wall of Arcane Golems passed by them, and stoicly lumbered towards the bridge.

[Visca]

“Send them in!”

“Sir… they’re not ready.”

“What?”

“The Golems… they aren’t completely reprogrammed yet.”

Draco would give a sigh of frustration, Think. We have done this before…

“Magi! Choose a Golem and bend their enchantments to your will, the Bridge is far too clustered for us to rush in. I need you to send them in, Move out!” Then he glared at the mage who was responsible for rewriting them, “And you, work faster. I’ve seen the sheer amount of power needed to control one of these things. This will only buy us a small amount of time.”

“…Yes sir.”

“The rest of you! Get behind them, we are going back in!”

[Agnarr]

For every demon he felled, another seemed to take its place. Sword and shield swung wildly, connecting on infernal after infernal. But his armor, and his shield, could not be everywhere at once. The Forsaken warrior was weakening. His resolve, however, was strong as always. He could not feel the rumble of the arcane golems beneath the constant barrage of blows from infernals.

One demon knocked his shield to the side as another sent a ferocious punch at his chest. Agnarr stumbled backward slightly. His vision blurred slightly as he was driven down to one knee.

Somewhere on the other side of these demons is that elf. The one that just called the retreat before we had even lost anything. He...must...pay...

Planting his foot, Agnarr pushed himself upward with what strength he could muster. "Vengeance comes for you!" he called, though only he would know at whom it was directed. Shoving past one of the infernals, he stopped, seeing a wave of arcane golems stomping toward them.

Deep inside his dented plate helmet, Agnarr Bloodmourne smirked.

[Visca]

The Golems worked as efficiently as Draco hoped; already they took two thirds of the bridge by storm, and progressing quickly. “Do not stop until we control the bridge! We take it, or we die here!” Draco shouted towards the magi, knowing what was soon to happen…

“For Kael’thas! Death to the Traitor!” A Dawnblade screamed as he charged for Draco, meeting a quick demise as his head simply rolled off the bridge. And then another shower of arrows darkened the sky a moment.

“Get those Goblin Siege Machines up! Now!!” Draco roared as he felt on pierce his shoulder guard, “We do not have time to linger here!” An Irespeaker came to summon an infernal felfire storm, only to be pummeled by one of the golems. With her out of the way, Draco spotted the Forsaken Warrior who was beginning to fall, Draco would begin making his way towards him, bashing enemies with his shield or striking with his sword.

[Ignas]

"So, what's the news?"

"Well, Sir, most of the western half of the camp has been destroyed along with most of the forces stationed there." An Eredar stood, somewhat uneasily, in the presence of Doom Lord Kazzak. The Doom Lord stood, overseeing the hasty repairs being made to the mechanisms on the Throne. Gan'arg and Mo'arg moved furiously about, repairing and constricting the machines necessary to maintain a portal. "How much longer?" the massive demon lord asked. "Well, if everything goes smoothly, several hours at most. It seems that the portal line to Quel'Danas is still up. We can resume our invasion shortly."

"Good. In the meantime, send word for forces at Netherstorm and Shadowmoon to deploy here. The first invasion was not enough and we payed the price. The second will be too many, if anything, and the mortals will not be able to stop it. No, not this time." The Doom Lord gave a menacing grin as the Eredar left to contact the various Forge Camps scattered across Outland. They had underestimated the mortals, but they shall not do it again.

-------------------------------------

It was strange. It was as if he were nowhere and everywhere at once. Up was down, black was white, chaos and serenity at once. After what seemed like eons, the world began to form around him. A figure stood over him.

"Hey, you alright?" It came to him as a warped language. The face of a male human emerged from a black shadow which soon began to reveal the rest of his body. Several blinks of his eyes brought the world into clearer view. "You were a mess when I found you, and it was a good thing that I did. What was that thing glowing on your forehead?" The memories of what had happened returned to his mind. The jump, the explosion, the sudden rush of Holy energy as he said a prayer, and... now.

"The Naaru... answered my prayer... they protected me with their... Blessing." he mumbled slowly rising to a sitting position. Pain shot through his chest and back causing him to fall back to the ground groaning. "Yeah, you might want to stay down. As protected as you were, you still got quite a few injuries. You're not invincible." the human said with a smirk. "When you're up to it, I suggest you start mending yourself as best you can. I patched up and cuts that you had and wrapped up your leg."

"What happened exactly... where are the other two?" the injured Draenei asked. "Well, hard to say. I know what happened to me. I hugged the mountainside very close while falling so I avoided the blast, I think. I was able to slide down some of the slopes and then the landslide happened. The Tauren is buried under it somewhere. Obviously he didn't make it. The Orc lass, she made it out with me. She went back up the mountain to check the losses of the demons and see what their next plans are."

Another prayer was said and another rush of Holy energy filled his body. The pain is his chest and back slowly subsided and he raised himself into a sitting position once again, the sigil glowing brightly on his forehead. The Human stared at it until a sound caught his attention. He stood, sword drawn, ready for whatever it was. The Orc ran from the other side of a fallen boulder. "Well, what did you see?" the Human asked, visibly relaxing while keeping his sword at hand. "The Legion will be restoring their portal. We have little time. Only a few hours maybe." The Human cursed and Ignas held his head in both hands. He was developing a headache and, noticing it for the first time, saw that his right leg was wrapped in a splint. "We still have our crystals that will return us to Quel'danas. We can warn the Offensive and they can prepare. Perhaps they can get the strike force to the Sunwell before then and we can focus on the portal." the Orc said. The Human nodded and produced the small crystal from one of the small packs on his belt. The Orc already had hers at hand.

"Where is my hammer?" Ignas asked, looking around for something to aid him in standing. "No idea. It probably got lost or broken in the landslide." The Draenei sighed, and tried standing as best he could. The Human gripped Ignas' arm and placed it around his shoulders. "Can't you just heal yourself?" the Orc asked. "No, my energy is spent. I need to replenish my strength and rest for a moment... I am in no condition to fight." he said while searching for the tiny crystal that would recall him to the Isle. "I can not find it." he said, only producing his Hearthstone. "This will return me to Theramore, at the barracks of my Order. You two will need to return to the Isle and warn the Offensive and the General." "What about you?" "I will be fine. If I can find a healer or a mage at Theramore then I shall rejoin the battle when possible."

It was all that could be done. The Draenei activated the powers of the Hearthstone. "Go. Warn them. We must not fail this." After his last words he vanished from the shattered world. The other two stood and looked at each other for a moment. They simply nodded and activated their crystals. Time was not on their side. The next few hours would decide the fate of the mortal races of Azeroth.

[Faelenor]

"Keep the attack going," shouted another Dawnblade, "That Forsaken warrior wont be able to hold for much longer." Spotting Draco bashing his way towards Agnarr, another Dawnblade began to command his men. " Dont let that traitor reach that forsaken scum. If he is allowed to reach it, our loses will only be greater. TAKE THEM O..."

Before the command could be finished an arrow ripped into his skull. Mounted on a snow-white talbuk, sat the Ranger-Colonel Faelenor, his arrow meeting its target. At that moment arrows began to rain down from the sky, one after another taking out the Dawnblade's soldiers left and right.

The attention was no longer on the falling forsaken or Draco. All eyes where directed at the assault from the sky and down upon the Ranger.

[Visca]

“You heard them! Get the machines up and ready!!” The head goblin shouted. Quickly the Engineers worked at setting up the odd cannons. They would open the long back of them, taking out dead canisters to replace with live ammo. When the new live five cylinder canisters were in, they would shut the backs of each and lock them. From there, they moved the sights and tighten valves. With that, it was a flip of a switch. “Charging! Estimated time until ready is thirty seconds!” A hum could be heard from the machines.

Draco was at the Forsaken’s back. “Hold in there!” He shouted as he put his hand on the man’s shoulder, focusing for a moment. Draco was not a healer, but since his teachings with Uther, he was slightly more in tuned for something this quick. He sent a wave of warm Light through the warrior in attempts to help him regain his slacking posture. It was obvious the man was tired. “We will get you out of here, from there I want you to find one of our medics and get patched up before you rejoin the battle. Understand?” He shouted as loud as he could over the screaming… turning to see waves of arrows coming to close for comfort. “Stay low! Or else we shall be caught by the crossfire!”

The arrows being shot through the crowds would hinder their progress to the rest of the army, no doubt… but soon it seemed that would not matter.

“Dawnblade archers! Focus fire!” The arrows would stop from the enemy’s side, as all bows focused on Fealenor and his rangers. “Ready!” The mages and warlocks continued to rain fire balls where they could to try to thin the Offensive’s army. “Aim!”

Before the Elf could shout fire, the head engineering goblin would. “Fire!!!” The cannons burst their terrible shots, the canisters screaming in the air. Upon impact would be fire smoke and blue flashes of Arcane energy. All that remained of the resistance for now on the walls was half remaining corpses.

When the smoke cleared, there would be a tint of red in the sky. “The Eredar has already begun his entrance to our world! Hurry! Strike team, you must hurry! We have no time!”

[Visca]

“Well, what are you waiting for?! GO!!!” Draco shouted as he directed them into the gate.
The captain of the Strike Team broke contact from the reddening sky, “What?”
“STOP THE EREDAR FROM ENTERING OUR WORLD NOW!!!”
“Yes sir!”
As they moved, Draco would motion to the others around, “Get in Formation! We know not what to expect!”



In the Terrace nearby, a Blood Knight watched the beginning of the carnage of this war. “Those flashes… what were they?”
A high ranking Magister would sigh, “They have brought bigger guns than we anticipated, round up the Dawnblades from the Square. We haven’t much time, our Master needs us.”
“And those who remain here?”
“We need more demons. The portal is down, so we will have to direct them ourselves.”


Comets would erupt from the sky, striking into the bridge. One. Five. Twenty. It seemed the Bridge was important to both sides after all. "Brace yourselves!"