Tolbyas sat in the shadows of the caverns, mulling about information in his head. The female leader of this cult had been gone for a long time. She had been sent away, it seemed, not long after a dispute with Vinarion. Tolbyas managed to evesdrop on the conversation, and it certainly confirmed his suspicions about the current captive.
The female wanted to just release Mortre, let her go. She seemed confident that Mortre would leave them be, if they just abandoned Vinarion’s plots and hatreds. Vinarion, referring to the woman as Vanexia, seemed to remind her that the mortals and other dragon flights are why she has no surviving children. This seemed to anger Vanexia, who then countered that it was Deathwing’s brood that killed some female named Zerixia. Of course, Vinarion roared about how it was mortals that lead Deathwing to her, and how it was the mortals that mounted her head on a pike. ‘Well,’ Vanexia countered. ‘Mother wouldn’t let them do that. Please, let's just let her go. Maybe we can all come to an agreement.’ This angered Vinarion rather intensely, and he chased Vanexia from his chambers. Within hours, Vanexia received some new orders and ended up leaving the cavern system.
So she is one of them. Tolbyas couldn’t let that thought escape his mind. He sat there in the shadows as his thoughts turned to his family. They were all dead, of course, had been for thousands of years. His father and brother died, out seeking glory, hunting a blue dragon that lived amongst the mortals. It was before Deathwing’s betrayal, but that didn’t stop a black dragon burning them alive. Tolbyas sighed. He wished they never found the black scales when they found the bodies. Not long after, his sister died in the sundering, and his mother took her life in grief. Tolbyas was left alone, in the new frontiers of Azeroth. Nothing but a hatred for the black dragons in his mind. He tried telling himself that his brother and father deserved their deaths, but he couldn’t deny that losing his father drove his mother to suicide. Knowing that, Tolbyas couldn’t help but feel his hatred.
And here he was, so many years later, using the skills he learned through his long life, to be an assassin. Wrathion was a black dragon, but Tolbyas found kinship in Wrathion’s cause, and tried to ignore that his employer was one of the beasts he hated so much. But, his heart felt like it skipped a beat when he saw Mortre again after they had gone their separate ways. He felt warm, just thinking about it.
Tolbyas shook his head. She was a black dragon, it was the only thing that made any sense, yet he tried so hard to blind himself from it. He was sworn to kill her kind, without mercy.
“Tolbyas?”
Tolbyas didn’t realize it, but in his thoughts he managed to walk to Mortre’s cell. He had his dagger drawn, held in his left arm. His posture was dark and slumped, and his expression cloaked in shadows.
He looked up, the light illuminating his stone face, his eyes cold despite the heat of the cavern. “You… are their mother.”
"Oh, it looks so terrible in there." Richard groaned as the dragons were fighting. It seemed they were trying to talk this Draco out of his frenzy, no doubt induced by the black dragoness somehow. Whether it be ancient kinship through blood or something else he didn't know.
He wanted to help, no he needed to help but what could he do. The Death Knight seemed to be making an attempt. Death Knights were killers though, trained in twisted magic and a lot more sturdy than he ever was. Him, the person who failed to become a proper mage and did little more than peddle potions. He'd gotten himself into quite the pickle.
He had panicked at first of course, bolting out the room panther at his side. Even now she was cowering beside him, eyes alive with fear and tail twitching. The slightest sound from behind and she would swivel her head in a panic. No doubt if friend or foe approached them they would be mauled before he could say panther.
Poor girl. Richard thought. After all she went through I drug her out here into a more terrifying mess. She was far less equipped to be here than he was. He'd gotten them into a terrible situation and he had to have the nerve to try and get them out of it.
He began to dig through his bag. HIS GUN! Of course, how had he forgotten about the gun. But would any of the bullets even pierce the dragon? Were their scales stronger than a few rounds, he didn't know. "Oh, I hope I don't regret this. Stay back here girl." If things went sour perhaps she could flee with her life. It offered him some small comfort.
He made his way back into the cavern, the dragons and the others all in this battle. Stopping his hands from trembling he firmly grasped the weapon and directed it towards whom he thought was the female. He loaded up the weapon and fired off a shot. If anything it might distract the dragoness enough for someone to get another hit in while he was reloading.
He wanted to help, no he needed to help but what could he do. The Death Knight seemed to be making an attempt. Death Knights were killers though, trained in twisted magic and a lot more sturdy than he ever was. Him, the person who failed to become a proper mage and did little more than peddle potions. He'd gotten himself into quite the pickle.
He had panicked at first of course, bolting out the room panther at his side. Even now she was cowering beside him, eyes alive with fear and tail twitching. The slightest sound from behind and she would swivel her head in a panic. No doubt if friend or foe approached them they would be mauled before he could say panther.
Poor girl. Richard thought. After all she went through I drug her out here into a more terrifying mess. She was far less equipped to be here than he was. He'd gotten them into a terrible situation and he had to have the nerve to try and get them out of it.
He began to dig through his bag. HIS GUN! Of course, how had he forgotten about the gun. But would any of the bullets even pierce the dragon? Were their scales stronger than a few rounds, he didn't know. "Oh, I hope I don't regret this. Stay back here girl." If things went sour perhaps she could flee with her life. It offered him some small comfort.
He made his way back into the cavern, the dragons and the others all in this battle. Stopping his hands from trembling he firmly grasped the weapon and directed it towards whom he thought was the female. He loaded up the weapon and fired off a shot. If anything it might distract the dragoness enough for someone to get another hit in while he was reloading.
Kersia glanced over towards Richard, who had finally come out of hiding. He seemed shaken up, and Kersia couldn’t blame the man. There were three dragons quarrelling in the cavern after all. They needed to stop this as soon as possible, or things were only going to get worse.
Kersia’s ice, though fizzling, had served some purpose. The repeated freezing and reheating of Vanexia’s scales was starting to make them brittle. It was only a matter of time before something cracked them open. Kersia started forming another lance, but stopped when she heard the resounding echo of gun fire.
Richard had unloaded a round towards Vanexia with his gun. The bullet fire reached the same area Kersia had aimed for, and although the bullet did not get all the way through the scale, it managed to break open an area, wide enough for a spear or sword to fit through.
Vynianyx slowly started to come too, before quickly jumping awake. The dragon’s foot was mere inches from where she had been laying, and no sooner did she move did the foot now occupy that space. Sylstyx was along a wall nearby, Vynianyx decided to make her way carefully towards the shaman, a limp in her back left leg.
Kersia’s ice, though fizzling, had served some purpose. The repeated freezing and reheating of Vanexia’s scales was starting to make them brittle. It was only a matter of time before something cracked them open. Kersia started forming another lance, but stopped when she heard the resounding echo of gun fire.
Richard had unloaded a round towards Vanexia with his gun. The bullet fire reached the same area Kersia had aimed for, and although the bullet did not get all the way through the scale, it managed to break open an area, wide enough for a spear or sword to fit through.
Vynianyx slowly started to come too, before quickly jumping awake. The dragon’s foot was mere inches from where she had been laying, and no sooner did she move did the foot now occupy that space. Sylstyx was along a wall nearby, Vynianyx decided to make her way carefully towards the shaman, a limp in her back left leg.
Vynianyx shifted back into her elf form, clutching her left side. Some dried blood speckled through her leather armor, but it appeared to have clotted off. Now it was just painful. With a scrunched up face, Vynianyx made her way over to Sylstyx along the wall, each step slow and deliberate as she nursed he left leg as well.
“I think a claw got me.” Vyn mumbled as she reached the shaman.
Sylstyx clicked her tongue as she looked over her friend. After a few moments, the shaman held her hand onto Vyn’s side. Water formed around the shaman’s hand and flowed onto Vyn’s side. It worked its way through her armor, and spread down the druid’s entire left side and leg. Slowly, the water wove into Vynianyx’s flesh, empowering her body to heal and mend.
In the center of the cavern, the dragons roared with their combat. It would have been a spectacle, if one of the dragons wasn’t trying to kill them all. Vyn remember the time she went up against Mortre herself, though they focused more on Sterixia while Kersia dueled the black dragon. It was funny how far they had all come as a group of friends. Vynianyx found herself smiling for a moment.
“Ze budiez felink gudz no, ja?” Sylstyx said, noting Vyn’s smile.
Vyn chuckled. “Yeah, I suppose so.” She rolled her shoulders and stretched, noticing a lack of pain on her right side. “We need to regroup with Kersia.” She began to make her way towards the pandaren, hoping to reach her and be able to be of help. So far, it looked like someone managed to break through a section of Vanexia’s scales, but the opening hadn’t been taken advantage of yet. Vynianyx wondered if Vanexia knew it was there. Vyn didn’t have a polearm with her, and doubted her claws would be long enough to do any damage, but maybe Kersia had a plan? Or perhaps someone else had something long and… stabby?
“I think a claw got me.” Vyn mumbled as she reached the shaman.
Sylstyx clicked her tongue as she looked over her friend. After a few moments, the shaman held her hand onto Vyn’s side. Water formed around the shaman’s hand and flowed onto Vyn’s side. It worked its way through her armor, and spread down the druid’s entire left side and leg. Slowly, the water wove into Vynianyx’s flesh, empowering her body to heal and mend.
In the center of the cavern, the dragons roared with their combat. It would have been a spectacle, if one of the dragons wasn’t trying to kill them all. Vyn remember the time she went up against Mortre herself, though they focused more on Sterixia while Kersia dueled the black dragon. It was funny how far they had all come as a group of friends. Vynianyx found herself smiling for a moment.
“Ze budiez felink gudz no, ja?” Sylstyx said, noting Vyn’s smile.
Vyn chuckled. “Yeah, I suppose so.” She rolled her shoulders and stretched, noticing a lack of pain on her right side. “We need to regroup with Kersia.” She began to make her way towards the pandaren, hoping to reach her and be able to be of help. So far, it looked like someone managed to break through a section of Vanexia’s scales, but the opening hadn’t been taken advantage of yet. Vynianyx wondered if Vanexia knew it was there. Vyn didn’t have a polearm with her, and doubted her claws would be long enough to do any damage, but maybe Kersia had a plan? Or perhaps someone else had something long and… stabby?
Torin grimaced. He didn’t want to hurt Draco one of the few black dragons that might be saved. Despite what they’v flight has done he didn’t think they deserved extinction. ‘Fight the control of the old gods Draco, fight damn you! I was saved from the grip of the Nightmare, I will not lose a potential friend to them! Not again! Never again!’ Torin yelled out in Draco’s mind. He tried to channel his energies to soothe the tormented mind of the dragon.
‘The whispers don’t have to control you! Shut them out and reclaim your flights proud heratige and protectors of the earth! Do not let them pervert your purpose!’ He roared out blasting Draco with nature magic. Colossal roots erupting from the earth to ensnare the dragon’s legs. Torin felt the pain in his eyes as he used so much of his magic to try and help Draco.
‘The whispers don’t have to control you! Shut them out and reclaim your flights proud heratige and protectors of the earth! Do not let them pervert your purpose!’ He roared out blasting Draco with nature magic. Colossal roots erupting from the earth to ensnare the dragon’s legs. Torin felt the pain in his eyes as he used so much of his magic to try and help Draco.
01/24/2018 10:03 AMPosted by BowendosekiDraconyxion dug one of his claws into the ground and beat his wings sending gusts forward towards the group. He then brought his tail around, smashing it into the ground triggering the quills on the tip before showcasing it to the Death Knight. If he really wanted to be the first to taste the dragon's fury then so be it, Draconyxion swung his tail around hoping to sheer his prey upon his quills tossing the knight like the flea he was in the process.
Morician's eyes widened as the massive tail swept towards him; the spines looking rather sharper than he remembered. It was all he could do to veer to the side and curl inwards to lessen the inevitable impact. He let loose a sharp cry of pain as he was swatted aside, landing several yards away on the cavern floor with a metallic thud.
Grimacing, he pulled himself back up to his feet, readying his blade and focusing on Draco as he mentally took stock of himself. Dull pain throbbed in his right side, and the armor felt as though it might have been bent. Not too surprising, given the power behind the strike. Thankfully, saronite was rather tough, and undead flesh could be pushed past typical mortal limits if the situation demanded. He would, however, likely need an extended vacation after the mission's end to recuperate properly from the damage.
02/19/2018 06:33 AMPosted by Distrò‘The whispers don’t have to control you! Shut them out and reclaim your flights proud heratige and protectors of the earth! Do not let them pervert your purpose!’ He roared out blasting Draco with nature magic. Colossal roots erupting from the earth to ensnare the dragon’s legs. Torin felt the pain in his eyes as he used so much of his magic to try and help Draco.
Much to his relief, he wasn't alone in the endeavor to contain the rogue ally. One of the other group members--the male druid, it seemed--was also trying to quell the unruly black. Note to self; avoid the business ends this time. The roots seemed to be containing Draco, at least for now. How long they would hold though, he couldn't say. If Draco were only weaker somehow...
He frowned as a rather grim thought crossed his mind. While he was not an expert on diseases, he had used a blood plague from time to time to weaken his enemies enough to kill or subdue them. He'd never tried to inflict one on a dragon though. Still, desperate times called for desperate measures, and anything that could weaken Draco would buy them more time to save their former ally. He focused the power in his runeblade for a moment, focusing on Draco and stretching out his free hand, attempting to inflict an onset of fatiguing illness onto the black.
Kersia scowled as Vanexia fought against the others. That hole in her scales was their best bet for felling the dragon, but what would happen when they did? Kersia knew Vanexia was exerting some level of control on the cavern, but she didn’t know the extent of the control. Was the dragon the only thing holding the cavern together? No, most of the outer walls seemed to have less mana infused. The biggest expenditure of Vane’s mana seemed to be the floor.
They didn’t have time to experiment now. Every minute wasted was time that could be spent reaching Mortre. And Sterixia remained unguarded outside. Kersia ground her teeth as her brow furrowed. It was a conundrum.
They needed to act, Kersia was done waiting. Vanexia was exposed, yet unaware, distracted by the others. “Vyn.” Kersia whispered as the druid drew in close.
Vyn looked at her. “Yes?”
Kersia smiled. “You are somewhat strong, yes?” She began pooling mana and weaving it into the water Sylstyx had made prior. “I need you to do something. I am going to be focused on keeping this ice formed. You get it to its destination.” As she spoke, Kersia sculpted the water into a long ice lance.
“Give it a blunt end as well as the sharp.” Vyn spoke, realizing Kersia’s plan.
Kersia complied. “She has a spot where Richard had broken the scales. If you aim there, you should be able to knock her out. I don’t know if it’ll be enough to kill her, but she’ll at least be out of the battle.”
“Right.” Vynianyx took the spear and looked over to where the dragons fought. She saw the scaleless spot behind Vanexia’s front leg.
Kersia kept a flow of mana tethered to the spear, to combat the melting heat of the cavern. “Be swift.”
Vynianyx nodded, before darting off towards the the dragons. She shifted to her cat form, flameless with white fur, and gripped the spear in her mouth. The smaller form allowed her to pass below Vanexia’s awareness, as something so small couldn’t hope to damage her. Such thinking would ultimately be her downfall. As Vynianyx got past Kora and Draco, she shifted back into an elf. The druidess let out a feral battle cry as she lunged forward, stabbing the spear into Vanexia’s flesh.
The dragon roared in pain, but before she could act, Vynianyx struck again. She shifted into bear form and used the bear’s strength to push the spear in deeper, causing the black dragon to begin coughing, lava spraying out of her jaws. Once Vyn had pushed nearly the whole spear in, Vanexia found her. She swatted the druid with her claws, and sent Vyn careening away.
The deed was done, however.
Vanexia continue to hack and roar. Her form seemed to melt away as she tried lessening the damage by taking her half elf form. However, as apparent by the blood spurting from her side, it was too late.
Vanexia stumbled forward towards the group, before falling to her knees. “You…” her voice raspy and ragged, cut off by her coughing.
Kersia stepped forward. “Please. Tell us where Mortre is.”
Vanexia’s color was fading, but she managed to hold together, so far. She regarded Kersia, not with hatred, but with a look of reverence. “She…” Vanexia coughed, and Kersia came closer. “Tenaris. Ogre mound by Un’goro.” Blood trickled from the side of Vanexia’s lips.
Kersia bowed. “Thank you.” Kersia turned to leave.
“Wait.” Vane called out. The floor of the cavern rumbled as her body pulled her mana back within her. Small segments of floor fell, to reveal the drop into a lava pool below.
Kersia glanced back at Vane.
“Tell her… tell her I am sorry I-” Vane’s color faded more, as more of the floor fell. The party needed to get into the tunnels and out of the cave. “I couldn't stop my brothers.”
Kersia nodded, before blinking across a hole that had opened up between her and the cavern mouth. “We need to go! The floor of this room is hollow.” She called out to the others. Kersia did her best to freeze the ground beneath her allies as they escaped the cave, but her power wouldn't hold long.
Vynianyx darted forward in her stag form, with Sylstyx perched on her back. The pair were out of the cave and out of the tunnels in minutes.
Sterixia looked up from where she moved the mounts nearby. Her face lit up as she saw Sylstyx and Vynianyx approach.
They didn’t have time to experiment now. Every minute wasted was time that could be spent reaching Mortre. And Sterixia remained unguarded outside. Kersia ground her teeth as her brow furrowed. It was a conundrum.
They needed to act, Kersia was done waiting. Vanexia was exposed, yet unaware, distracted by the others. “Vyn.” Kersia whispered as the druid drew in close.
Vyn looked at her. “Yes?”
Kersia smiled. “You are somewhat strong, yes?” She began pooling mana and weaving it into the water Sylstyx had made prior. “I need you to do something. I am going to be focused on keeping this ice formed. You get it to its destination.” As she spoke, Kersia sculpted the water into a long ice lance.
“Give it a blunt end as well as the sharp.” Vyn spoke, realizing Kersia’s plan.
Kersia complied. “She has a spot where Richard had broken the scales. If you aim there, you should be able to knock her out. I don’t know if it’ll be enough to kill her, but she’ll at least be out of the battle.”
“Right.” Vynianyx took the spear and looked over to where the dragons fought. She saw the scaleless spot behind Vanexia’s front leg.
Kersia kept a flow of mana tethered to the spear, to combat the melting heat of the cavern. “Be swift.”
Vynianyx nodded, before darting off towards the the dragons. She shifted to her cat form, flameless with white fur, and gripped the spear in her mouth. The smaller form allowed her to pass below Vanexia’s awareness, as something so small couldn’t hope to damage her. Such thinking would ultimately be her downfall. As Vynianyx got past Kora and Draco, she shifted back into an elf. The druidess let out a feral battle cry as she lunged forward, stabbing the spear into Vanexia’s flesh.
The dragon roared in pain, but before she could act, Vynianyx struck again. She shifted into bear form and used the bear’s strength to push the spear in deeper, causing the black dragon to begin coughing, lava spraying out of her jaws. Once Vyn had pushed nearly the whole spear in, Vanexia found her. She swatted the druid with her claws, and sent Vyn careening away.
The deed was done, however.
Vanexia continue to hack and roar. Her form seemed to melt away as she tried lessening the damage by taking her half elf form. However, as apparent by the blood spurting from her side, it was too late.
Vanexia stumbled forward towards the group, before falling to her knees. “You…” her voice raspy and ragged, cut off by her coughing.
Kersia stepped forward. “Please. Tell us where Mortre is.”
Vanexia’s color was fading, but she managed to hold together, so far. She regarded Kersia, not with hatred, but with a look of reverence. “She…” Vanexia coughed, and Kersia came closer. “Tenaris. Ogre mound by Un’goro.” Blood trickled from the side of Vanexia’s lips.
Kersia bowed. “Thank you.” Kersia turned to leave.
“Wait.” Vane called out. The floor of the cavern rumbled as her body pulled her mana back within her. Small segments of floor fell, to reveal the drop into a lava pool below.
Kersia glanced back at Vane.
“Tell her… tell her I am sorry I-” Vane’s color faded more, as more of the floor fell. The party needed to get into the tunnels and out of the cave. “I couldn't stop my brothers.”
Kersia nodded, before blinking across a hole that had opened up between her and the cavern mouth. “We need to go! The floor of this room is hollow.” She called out to the others. Kersia did her best to freeze the ground beneath her allies as they escaped the cave, but her power wouldn't hold long.
Vynianyx darted forward in her stag form, with Sylstyx perched on her back. The pair were out of the cave and out of the tunnels in minutes.
Sterixia looked up from where she moved the mounts nearby. Her face lit up as she saw Sylstyx and Vynianyx approach.
The black would end up a greater challenge. Vanexia did leave a parting give for the red dragon, launching a spear of molten hot stone from the ceiling down at her.
Kora threw her wings out in front of her like a shield. The molten rock shattered against her wings, the shrapnel and magma tearing and burning through her wings. She groaned in pain as she attempted to keep herself aloft. She turned to reengage Vanexia but to her horror saw what was being done. As the black shifted to her half elven form Kora reverted to her own mortal form. She walked up and knelt next to Vanexia, tears rimming her eyes, "It didn't have to be this way. You didn't have to die."
((pause for any response from Vanexia))
Kora followed the others out of the cave with a heavy heart. She slumped against a nearby rock and let the tears flow at the loss of a life that could have been saved.
Kora threw her wings out in front of her like a shield. The molten rock shattered against her wings, the shrapnel and magma tearing and burning through her wings. She groaned in pain as she attempted to keep herself aloft. She turned to reengage Vanexia but to her horror saw what was being done. As the black shifted to her half elven form Kora reverted to her own mortal form. She walked up and knelt next to Vanexia, tears rimming her eyes, "It didn't have to be this way. You didn't have to die."
((pause for any response from Vanexia))
Kora followed the others out of the cave with a heavy heart. She slumped against a nearby rock and let the tears flow at the loss of a life that could have been saved.
The druid and dragon in disguise worked together to finish off their foe. Richard sighed a breath of relief as she began to shrink, wondering if their companions would also simmer down from their fury.
Yep. Sigh of relief over, back to reality. Richard booked it outside of the cavern Synthara following behind him as he dashed past her. The cavern rumbled as they began their run through the tunnels, some of his allies running ahead of him extremely quickly. Lucky they could turn into a stag. He exited the tunnels way after them panting and out of breath. He rest a hand on the end of the caves mouth.
02/27/2018 08:33 PMPosted by EtzulKersia nodded, before blinking across a hole that had opened up between her and the cavern mouth. “We need to go! The floor of this room is hollow.”
Yep. Sigh of relief over, back to reality. Richard booked it outside of the cavern Synthara following behind him as he dashed past her. The cavern rumbled as they began their run through the tunnels, some of his allies running ahead of him extremely quickly. Lucky they could turn into a stag. He exited the tunnels way after them panting and out of breath. He rest a hand on the end of the caves mouth.
- Draconyxion -
Draconyxion felt the impact of his tail as it connected with the small Death Knight watching with glee as his prey tumbled to the floor. It was all to easy as the adult Black dragon crawled towards his first victim to finish the job. In doing so Draconyxion exposed his backside to the other Black in the cavern: Vanexia; whom clawed at his haunches.
Draconyxion felt her claws did into his backside which caused him to abandon his pursuit of the smaller Death Knight. Why would she attack him they were on the same side... No, she wanted the mantel herself. It was common for members of the Black Dragonflight to fight each other for dominance. With the position of Aspect open she wanted his throne. You are a child of Deathwing not her... you have the aspect's blood running under your scales... You are destined to rule all of Azeroth. If she does not want to be by your side... finish her off, Kill her with the others...
The Dragon's mind was a whirl of thoughts fighting for control over his actions. There were those thoughts that belonged to himself, then there were the whispers fighting to overpower not only his own mind but the second invading force: the Dreamwalker. It seemed as though Torin's words were overpowering the Old one's whispers as they doubled their efforts. Draconyxion remained trapped within his mind as the two opposing forces vied for control of the great beast.
Draconyxion pushed back against both of them as hard as he could. Even if he was not in total control of his mind or his body they both were still his. Torin's words spoke truth as did the maddening whispers. He was one of the proud, the most powerful of the Dragonflights. One of the rightful heirs to Death Wing's Throne. The Earth was his to command and not the other way around.
Draconyxion's eyes narrowed as did his pupils. The rage building in the dragon's body as the druid's vines did their best to secure him to the floor of the cavern. Matters were made worse as he felt his strength being sapped. Then the cave started to crumble. Inside Draconyxion cried at the loss of one of the few remaining members of his flight as the Mage struck her down with some magically created spear.
Draconyxion felt the impact of his tail as it connected with the small Death Knight watching with glee as his prey tumbled to the floor. It was all to easy as the adult Black dragon crawled towards his first victim to finish the job. In doing so Draconyxion exposed his backside to the other Black in the cavern: Vanexia; whom clawed at his haunches.
Draconyxion felt her claws did into his backside which caused him to abandon his pursuit of the smaller Death Knight. Why would she attack him they were on the same side... No, she wanted the mantel herself. It was common for members of the Black Dragonflight to fight each other for dominance. With the position of Aspect open she wanted his throne. You are a child of Deathwing not her... you have the aspect's blood running under your scales... You are destined to rule all of Azeroth. If she does not want to be by your side... finish her off, Kill her with the others...
The Dragon's mind was a whirl of thoughts fighting for control over his actions. There were those thoughts that belonged to himself, then there were the whispers fighting to overpower not only his own mind but the second invading force: the Dreamwalker. It seemed as though Torin's words were overpowering the Old one's whispers as they doubled their efforts. Draconyxion remained trapped within his mind as the two opposing forces vied for control of the great beast.
Draconyxion pushed back against both of them as hard as he could. Even if he was not in total control of his mind or his body they both were still his. Torin's words spoke truth as did the maddening whispers. He was one of the proud, the most powerful of the Dragonflights. One of the rightful heirs to Death Wing's Throne. The Earth was his to command and not the other way around.
Draconyxion's eyes narrowed as did his pupils. The rage building in the dragon's body as the druid's vines did their best to secure him to the floor of the cavern. Matters were made worse as he felt his strength being sapped. Then the cave started to crumble. Inside Draconyxion cried at the loss of one of the few remaining members of his flight as the Mage struck her down with some magically created spear.
Vanexia looked at Kora as the red seemed to pity her. Between labored breaths, the woman spoked. “I was born of the earth, I return to the earth. Do not fret for me.”
As the ground of the cavern fell into the pits below, as the group left, Vanexia’s body could be seen sliding over the edge, falling into the lava below. A slow gurgle of lava around her would bubble as her form slowly sank below, immune to the burning nature of the substance.
Kersia sighed as she saw Sterixia safe and looked around. Others emerged from the cavern. Kersia smiled sadly as she saw Kora weeping on a rock nearby. She understood the red’s plight, but not every life, not every foe could be saved. That their losses were minimal was good enough for Kersia.
As Kersia reflected on the battle, she began to wonder. Surely the black dragon could have been less careless in the engagement. A dragon as old as she did not get that age by luck, especially with her circumstance. A part of Kersia was convinced the woman sought the death she received, unable to betray her brothers, but unable to also betray her mother, death as the option to avoid both perhaps. Though now that she was gone, Kersia supposed they could not know.
As the others began to gather near the mounts, Kersia turned to address them. “Well, that was a bit more intense than I expected, and I doubt they will be ignorant of Vane’s death for long. We cannot stay here.”
She could see exhaustion amongst the group, rest was needed. It had been a grueling morning, and the sun wasn’t yet to the mid way point of the sky. Yet even she felt ready for a evening bed. “We should… I think we can reach Gadgetzan by nightfall, and get rested there. We can head for the ogre mound tomorrow.” Kersia furrowed her brow and rubbed her temples. “I doubt they will react in time to catch us here, we can probably rest some on our mounts.” She got back on her talbuk. “There is a narrow point at the south end of Thousand Needles, between those of us present we should be able to craft a bridge to cross. There was a pirate camp there last I knew, but they should be cakewalk after those dragons.”
Kersia smiled at Sterixia as the young one climbed onto her talbuk’s back. Having said her piece, and weary from the battle, Kersia fell silent and began to guide her talbuk south.
As the ground of the cavern fell into the pits below, as the group left, Vanexia’s body could be seen sliding over the edge, falling into the lava below. A slow gurgle of lava around her would bubble as her form slowly sank below, immune to the burning nature of the substance.
Kersia sighed as she saw Sterixia safe and looked around. Others emerged from the cavern. Kersia smiled sadly as she saw Kora weeping on a rock nearby. She understood the red’s plight, but not every life, not every foe could be saved. That their losses were minimal was good enough for Kersia.
As Kersia reflected on the battle, she began to wonder. Surely the black dragon could have been less careless in the engagement. A dragon as old as she did not get that age by luck, especially with her circumstance. A part of Kersia was convinced the woman sought the death she received, unable to betray her brothers, but unable to also betray her mother, death as the option to avoid both perhaps. Though now that she was gone, Kersia supposed they could not know.
As the others began to gather near the mounts, Kersia turned to address them. “Well, that was a bit more intense than I expected, and I doubt they will be ignorant of Vane’s death for long. We cannot stay here.”
She could see exhaustion amongst the group, rest was needed. It had been a grueling morning, and the sun wasn’t yet to the mid way point of the sky. Yet even she felt ready for a evening bed. “We should… I think we can reach Gadgetzan by nightfall, and get rested there. We can head for the ogre mound tomorrow.” Kersia furrowed her brow and rubbed her temples. “I doubt they will react in time to catch us here, we can probably rest some on our mounts.” She got back on her talbuk. “There is a narrow point at the south end of Thousand Needles, between those of us present we should be able to craft a bridge to cross. There was a pirate camp there last I knew, but they should be cakewalk after those dragons.”
Kersia smiled at Sterixia as the young one climbed onto her talbuk’s back. Having said her piece, and weary from the battle, Kersia fell silent and began to guide her talbuk south.
Vinarion sat upon his stone throne in the center chamber of his caverns. Mortre was in her cage a few feet away, her knees pressed against her chest. Her heart ached, but she knew not why. Something on Vinarion’s face seemed pained as well, and he was fidgeting. Anxious.
Suddenly, the sickly looking human hopped from his chair. He paced around it, before sitting back in. He sat only for a moment, however, before hopping up again. Vinarion had much to be anxious for, as the emptiness of the caverns told. Their forces, their followers, the numbers were declining rapidly. The intrepid blue dragon and her allies had taken a decent dent in their numbers, but it was nothing compared to the dent the tol’vir and Wrathion left. Hundreds of the mortals fell to the tol’vir guarding the titan weapons beneath Uldum. And Wrathion’s black guard killed many of the dragons as they were exposed investigating the titan weapons in Un’Goro.
But this anxiety, this was different. This wasn’t some level of annoyance at the group’s failures. His plans crumbling. No, Vinarion always took that news with anger, followed by a brief anxiety that comprised of some foot wiggling and finger tapping. This was something else, as the ancient black in weak mortal guise repeatedly stood, paced, and sat.
“Vanzer!” The sudden booming voice of the old black caused Mortre, and Tolbyas in the shadows, to jump with a start.
Vanzerion skipped into the tavern in his half elf form, spinning his scythe around and around above his head. Though his motions seemed their normal erratic self, his demeanor seemed off as well. Something was plaguing his mind. “Yes, oh graCIOUS and eLDer one!” Vanzer did a pained bow, the motions chipper but the emotions bland.
“Where is Vane? Has she reported in?” Vinarion sat himself back in the chair, but his leg remained bouncing in place.
“EveRY THirty miNUTes,” Vanzerion cocked his head to the side. “AH!” He jumped suddenly. “Long PAST due! NO rePORTS in fourTY minuTES!”
Vinarion scowled. “Contact her. NOW!” Mortre stood from within her cage and watched them, her hands on the bars.
“As you COmmanD!” Vanzer bowed, before reaching for the floor. It was an old way to speak, through the earth. And it had its failings if the other was airborne. But it was covert, in a way, as only your tether target could hear and respond. Vanzerion’s face grew concerned, and soon his brows furrowed. “I fiND HER very BRIEFly, but SHE SAYS nothing in REsponse! Then FALLS!”
Vinarion scowled. “AGAIN!”
Vanzer begins to look pained. “GONE! GONE! GONE! NO ANSWER! GONE! GONE!”
Vinarion growled. He slammed his hand into the arm of his stone throne. “What do you mean!? Titans I feel you only make sense when she is around.”
Vanzerion began wailing. “GONE! DEAD! GONE! THE ROCK GONE!” His expression suddenly grew dark. “WithOUT MY VANE!? Who will SETTLE!?” Vanzerion glanced wildly around the room and spotted Mortre. He charged and swung his scythe at her cage. Had Mortre not jumped back when she did, she would have been impaled. Vanzerion dropped his scythe and hopped onto the bars, holding himself with the tension between his arms and feet. “moTHER! MOTHER! Riddle THIS! Why? Why. does. MY. CheST! PAIN!” His eyes had grown wild, far farther gone than any time she had seen him before.
Vanzerion always seemed odd, even before everything. He took extra care in raising, always struggle with emotion and understanding. After everything, each year he seemed worse and worse, but Vane knew how to handle him. And then his mate, Yanaxia, was even better. Given Yana’s absence, Mortre could only assume she was killed some time after they arrived back on Azeroth. Vane must have been filling her role again.
And now, Vane was dead.
Mortre’s own heart ached with the knowledge. Vane was the gentle one of the clutch, and always seemed to have a soothing effect on her siblings. She was calm, level headed, though not always quick when backed into a corner. Everything went out the window when Vane was cornered, and she oft took drastic and self detrimental solutions. So her brothers often kept her out of any cornering situations when they were growing up. Even when they were adults. Of all the children Mortre had, those three, the first three, were by far the closest to each other, and to her.
“Vanzer!” Vinarion snapped, using his good arm to pull Vanzer free. “Leave mother out of this!”
Vanzerion’s eyes began weeping a constant stream of tears. “Yana! YaNA’S PAIN! I wanted! I wanTED never AGAIN! Vane proMISED! Never AGAIN!”
“The blue did this, find her. Make her feel your pain.”
Vanzerion’s face froze for a moment, as he processed the thought. An instant later, he was gone.
Suddenly, the sickly looking human hopped from his chair. He paced around it, before sitting back in. He sat only for a moment, however, before hopping up again. Vinarion had much to be anxious for, as the emptiness of the caverns told. Their forces, their followers, the numbers were declining rapidly. The intrepid blue dragon and her allies had taken a decent dent in their numbers, but it was nothing compared to the dent the tol’vir and Wrathion left. Hundreds of the mortals fell to the tol’vir guarding the titan weapons beneath Uldum. And Wrathion’s black guard killed many of the dragons as they were exposed investigating the titan weapons in Un’Goro.
But this anxiety, this was different. This wasn’t some level of annoyance at the group’s failures. His plans crumbling. No, Vinarion always took that news with anger, followed by a brief anxiety that comprised of some foot wiggling and finger tapping. This was something else, as the ancient black in weak mortal guise repeatedly stood, paced, and sat.
“Vanzer!” The sudden booming voice of the old black caused Mortre, and Tolbyas in the shadows, to jump with a start.
Vanzerion skipped into the tavern in his half elf form, spinning his scythe around and around above his head. Though his motions seemed their normal erratic self, his demeanor seemed off as well. Something was plaguing his mind. “Yes, oh graCIOUS and eLDer one!” Vanzer did a pained bow, the motions chipper but the emotions bland.
“Where is Vane? Has she reported in?” Vinarion sat himself back in the chair, but his leg remained bouncing in place.
“EveRY THirty miNUTes,” Vanzerion cocked his head to the side. “AH!” He jumped suddenly. “Long PAST due! NO rePORTS in fourTY minuTES!”
Vinarion scowled. “Contact her. NOW!” Mortre stood from within her cage and watched them, her hands on the bars.
“As you COmmanD!” Vanzer bowed, before reaching for the floor. It was an old way to speak, through the earth. And it had its failings if the other was airborne. But it was covert, in a way, as only your tether target could hear and respond. Vanzerion’s face grew concerned, and soon his brows furrowed. “I fiND HER very BRIEFly, but SHE SAYS nothing in REsponse! Then FALLS!”
Vinarion scowled. “AGAIN!”
Vanzer begins to look pained. “GONE! GONE! GONE! NO ANSWER! GONE! GONE!”
Vinarion growled. He slammed his hand into the arm of his stone throne. “What do you mean!? Titans I feel you only make sense when she is around.”
Vanzerion began wailing. “GONE! DEAD! GONE! THE ROCK GONE!” His expression suddenly grew dark. “WithOUT MY VANE!? Who will SETTLE!?” Vanzerion glanced wildly around the room and spotted Mortre. He charged and swung his scythe at her cage. Had Mortre not jumped back when she did, she would have been impaled. Vanzerion dropped his scythe and hopped onto the bars, holding himself with the tension between his arms and feet. “moTHER! MOTHER! Riddle THIS! Why? Why. does. MY. CheST! PAIN!” His eyes had grown wild, far farther gone than any time she had seen him before.
Vanzerion always seemed odd, even before everything. He took extra care in raising, always struggle with emotion and understanding. After everything, each year he seemed worse and worse, but Vane knew how to handle him. And then his mate, Yanaxia, was even better. Given Yana’s absence, Mortre could only assume she was killed some time after they arrived back on Azeroth. Vane must have been filling her role again.
And now, Vane was dead.
Mortre’s own heart ached with the knowledge. Vane was the gentle one of the clutch, and always seemed to have a soothing effect on her siblings. She was calm, level headed, though not always quick when backed into a corner. Everything went out the window when Vane was cornered, and she oft took drastic and self detrimental solutions. So her brothers often kept her out of any cornering situations when they were growing up. Even when they were adults. Of all the children Mortre had, those three, the first three, were by far the closest to each other, and to her.
“Vanzer!” Vinarion snapped, using his good arm to pull Vanzer free. “Leave mother out of this!”
Vanzerion’s eyes began weeping a constant stream of tears. “Yana! YaNA’S PAIN! I wanted! I wanTED never AGAIN! Vane proMISED! Never AGAIN!”
“The blue did this, find her. Make her feel your pain.”
Vanzerion’s face froze for a moment, as he processed the thought. An instant later, he was gone.
03/09/2018 09:03 PMPosted by Kersia“We should… I think we can reach Gadgetzan by nightfall, and get rested there. We can head for the ogre mound tomorrow.” Kersia furrowed her brow and rubbed her temples. “I doubt they will react in time to catch us here, we can probably rest some on our mounts.”
Richard nodded breathlessly. At least his horse hadn't run off...this time. He mounted Swiftwind and Synthara padded beside them.
03/09/2018 09:03 PMPosted by Kersia“There is a narrow point at the south end of Thousand Needles, between those of us present we should be able to craft a bridge to cross. There was a pirate camp there last I knew, but they should be cakewalk after those dragons.”
Kersia smiled at Sterixia as the young one climbed onto her talbuk’s back. Having said her piece, and weary from the battle, Kersia fell silent and began to guide her talbuk south.
He gave a big ol' thumbs up to her before falling in line silently behind. This day had certainly been a rough one. And the worst was yet ahead of him he feared.
Kersia smile at Richard's thumbs up before she led the way as the group moved through the marsh. Her mind wandered back to Mudsprocket and their missing people. Kersia didn’t remember seeing anyone in the caverns, perhaps the dragons were not the culprits, or perhaps the prisoners were already moved? Did they even thoroughly check the caverns? Kersia scowled, failing to remember.
Well, regardless, if the people of Mudsprocket cared about the kidnappings, they would investigate themselves. It wasn’t worth losing any sleep over.
Kersia glanced around, after everything that had happened, the marsh seemed overly quiet. Or was her mind overly loud. Kersia sighed, and took a moment to clear her thoughts. Soon, the sounds of wildlife, birds singing, amphibians croaking, insects chirping, all a cacophony of wild music, entered her senses.
It was then, that relief finally washed over the pandaren. It was done. The dragon was dead. One of the heads of the cult beast had been severed. They even got a clue into where the cult was located.
How long were they in those caverns? Kersia squinted as she looked up at the sky. It felt like an eternity, but it was truly only an hour or so. Still, it was an hour or so of time lost, and energy spent. Kersia hoped the cult wouldn’t retaliate. At least not until tomorrow.
She started to feel it as her adrenalin faded. Energy spent. Mana spent. She felt so exhausted, yet she didn’t fully exhaust herself. An odd mixture of total mental exhaustion, yet mild physical and magical. A nap, a meal. All she craved at the moment. Glancing around, she had a feeling the others felt similar.
As they continued towards their goal, Kersia got into her pack and pulled out a bag of smoked fish. Zaria, her talbuk, knew to follow the roads without Kersia’s coaxing, so the pandaren allowed herself a moment’s reprieve and enjoyed her snack.
As the sun began to descend on the sky, the group exited out of the marsh, through a protected valley, and onto one of the ledges of Thousand Needles. It wasn’t long after that they were at the south most portion. From across the gap, Kersia could see the pirate encampment. It appeared abandoned at this time, as no torches, no lights could be seen.
With the sun so low in the sky, however, Kersia decided to stop where they were, right next to a rather large rock formation.
“We make camp here,” Kersia announced as she slipped off Zaria. She helped Sterixia dismount. “Then tomorrow, we go until we reach Gadgetzan.”
Well, regardless, if the people of Mudsprocket cared about the kidnappings, they would investigate themselves. It wasn’t worth losing any sleep over.
Kersia glanced around, after everything that had happened, the marsh seemed overly quiet. Or was her mind overly loud. Kersia sighed, and took a moment to clear her thoughts. Soon, the sounds of wildlife, birds singing, amphibians croaking, insects chirping, all a cacophony of wild music, entered her senses.
It was then, that relief finally washed over the pandaren. It was done. The dragon was dead. One of the heads of the cult beast had been severed. They even got a clue into where the cult was located.
How long were they in those caverns? Kersia squinted as she looked up at the sky. It felt like an eternity, but it was truly only an hour or so. Still, it was an hour or so of time lost, and energy spent. Kersia hoped the cult wouldn’t retaliate. At least not until tomorrow.
She started to feel it as her adrenalin faded. Energy spent. Mana spent. She felt so exhausted, yet she didn’t fully exhaust herself. An odd mixture of total mental exhaustion, yet mild physical and magical. A nap, a meal. All she craved at the moment. Glancing around, she had a feeling the others felt similar.
As they continued towards their goal, Kersia got into her pack and pulled out a bag of smoked fish. Zaria, her talbuk, knew to follow the roads without Kersia’s coaxing, so the pandaren allowed herself a moment’s reprieve and enjoyed her snack.
As the sun began to descend on the sky, the group exited out of the marsh, through a protected valley, and onto one of the ledges of Thousand Needles. It wasn’t long after that they were at the south most portion. From across the gap, Kersia could see the pirate encampment. It appeared abandoned at this time, as no torches, no lights could be seen.
With the sun so low in the sky, however, Kersia decided to stop where they were, right next to a rather large rock formation.
“We make camp here,” Kersia announced as she slipped off Zaria. She helped Sterixia dismount. “Then tomorrow, we go until we reach Gadgetzan.”
Vynianyx followed behind Kersia, on the back of Illuria. Though normally she was happy to prance along the group in her stag form, the recent encounter left her drained. Healing can only heal so much, and doesn’t do anything for the mental exhaustion. Had they truly only been in there for so short a time?
Vynianyx sighed, and rested her head on the back of Illuria’s. She trusted her hippogryph to follow Kersia, and allowed herself to nap lightly. It was a tough day, and she knew someone needed to keep watch at night. Surely even the sleepless would need rest.
Vynianyx awoke after a few hours to her stomach rumbling. She had brought jerky to tide her over between opportunities to hunt, so she fetched it out of her pouch. Illuria grumbled. Vynianyx chuckled and stroked the hippogryph. “At camp, I have a pouch of seeds and fruit for you.”
The hippogryph chirped in response, and continued on. Vynianyx allowed the rhythmic steps to lull her back into her nap. Until the steps stopped.
Was it evening already? Vynianyx opened her eyes slowly and took in her surroundings. They were in Thousand Needles now, at the southern edge.
”We make camp here.” Kersia announced.
Vynianyx slid off of Illuria and stretched. She pulled Illuria’s food pouch from her pack and dumped the contents in front of the hippogryph. With a happy squeek, Illuria enjoyed her meal.
“I can take watch tonight. Napped more of the way here. Can do the whole night or split it.” Vynianyx spoke, an empty cheeriness to her voice.
Vynianyx sighed, and rested her head on the back of Illuria’s. She trusted her hippogryph to follow Kersia, and allowed herself to nap lightly. It was a tough day, and she knew someone needed to keep watch at night. Surely even the sleepless would need rest.
Vynianyx awoke after a few hours to her stomach rumbling. She had brought jerky to tide her over between opportunities to hunt, so she fetched it out of her pouch. Illuria grumbled. Vynianyx chuckled and stroked the hippogryph. “At camp, I have a pouch of seeds and fruit for you.”
The hippogryph chirped in response, and continued on. Vynianyx allowed the rhythmic steps to lull her back into her nap. Until the steps stopped.
Was it evening already? Vynianyx opened her eyes slowly and took in her surroundings. They were in Thousand Needles now, at the southern edge.
”We make camp here.” Kersia announced.
Vynianyx slid off of Illuria and stretched. She pulled Illuria’s food pouch from her pack and dumped the contents in front of the hippogryph. With a happy squeek, Illuria enjoyed her meal.
“I can take watch tonight. Napped more of the way here. Can do the whole night or split it.” Vynianyx spoke, an empty cheeriness to her voice.
Sylstyx felt a heaviness in her heart as she got on her horse and followed the group. Vanexia. She couldn’t shake the feeling that she had met the dragon before, her voice sounded so familiar. And now, Sylstyx would never know. She sighed, allowing Enara to carry her along the path.
Enara neighed quietly, concerned for her daughter’s low spirits. Sylstyx smiled and stroked along the horse’s neck. “All is well. Death always leads to a heavy heart, but I will be fine.” Sylstyx spoke in her native tongue.
She felt no hunger as the group progressed. Sylstyx had been used to going long periods without food, between her training and her misfortunes. Even when food is available, she normally just picks through.
Instead, Sylstyx spent the time traveling meditating. She communed with the spirits and elementals, refreshing her connections after being deep underground. Even though the time was short, her baseline connection to the wind elementals was weakened greatly. Through meditation, she strengthened her bonds.
It wasn’t long before spirits began to be drawn to her as well, and soon her father returned to her side. He fluttered around her, happy she had survived the caves.
By the time the sun was setting, Sylstyx had refreshed her connections and her mana stores. As Kersia announced her camping intentions, Sylstyx slid off her horse. “Brink vud, I zuhmundz foyerrz.” She smiled. “Zinkink all cud yooz ze varmz.”
Then Sylstyx set to work on another task. On her knees, she began scooping the earth to make a small hole. Satisfied with its size, big enough to dunk waterskins, she held her hands over it and prayed to the water elementals. Soon the pool filled with crystal clear water, pulled up from deep beneath the surface and filtered through the sands and stones.
“Und vahterrz! Dahzerd beink varmz, zould beink ze rehfilz vahterr koopz.” Sylstyx announced as she was done, then dunked and filled her own waterskin.
-----
((Bring wood, I summon fires.))((Thinking all could use the warms.))((And waters! Desert being warms, should being the refills water cups.))
Enara neighed quietly, concerned for her daughter’s low spirits. Sylstyx smiled and stroked along the horse’s neck. “All is well. Death always leads to a heavy heart, but I will be fine.” Sylstyx spoke in her native tongue.
She felt no hunger as the group progressed. Sylstyx had been used to going long periods without food, between her training and her misfortunes. Even when food is available, she normally just picks through.
Instead, Sylstyx spent the time traveling meditating. She communed with the spirits and elementals, refreshing her connections after being deep underground. Even though the time was short, her baseline connection to the wind elementals was weakened greatly. Through meditation, she strengthened her bonds.
It wasn’t long before spirits began to be drawn to her as well, and soon her father returned to her side. He fluttered around her, happy she had survived the caves.
By the time the sun was setting, Sylstyx had refreshed her connections and her mana stores. As Kersia announced her camping intentions, Sylstyx slid off her horse. “Brink vud, I zuhmundz foyerrz.” She smiled. “Zinkink all cud yooz ze varmz.”
Then Sylstyx set to work on another task. On her knees, she began scooping the earth to make a small hole. Satisfied with its size, big enough to dunk waterskins, she held her hands over it and prayed to the water elementals. Soon the pool filled with crystal clear water, pulled up from deep beneath the surface and filtered through the sands and stones.
“Und vahterrz! Dahzerd beink varmz, zould beink ze rehfilz vahterr koopz.” Sylstyx announced as she was done, then dunked and filled her own waterskin.
-----
((Bring wood, I summon fires.))((Thinking all could use the warms.))((And waters! Desert being warms, should being the refills water cups.))
As the others moved off Kora summoned her arcane mount. Before leaving she cast one last look at the cavern and said a small prayer to Elune and the Light for Vanexia. The woman had made the only decision she could think of. She couldn't betray her siblings nor could she live with what was being done to her mother and so she chose her place to die. Kora sighed as she wiped more tears from her eyes and spurred her mount forward.
"Why did you send me Dalf? Even though you are looking for Master Moonfury you could have come and allowed me to search in your place. Your stoicness and ability to relieve yourself of emotion would be much better served here."
To Kora's surprise Dalf's voice spoke to her from her pocket, "That is why I sent you Kora. Your kindness and love for all living things is needed there. Your desire to save every life possible be it friend or foe and whether or not you can save your foes is irrelevant the simple act of trying shows your enemies that there could be a better way. Life is precious, no matter whose life it is. Don't let the hardships of this world change that about you. I had called to check in and I guess you must have picked up without realizing it. Keep trying Kora and even if you can't save your foes you can at least save Mortre. Me being there may have made fighting your enemies easier, but then they wouldn't even get the chance to be saved, that is a gift you can give where I cannot. Don't give up and stay strong."
The line was severed as fresh tears poured out of Kora's eyes and they would last into the night until she finally fell asleep on her mount's back as they stopped to make camp. The mount would remain until either Kora dismissed it or someone took her off its back.
"Why did you send me Dalf? Even though you are looking for Master Moonfury you could have come and allowed me to search in your place. Your stoicness and ability to relieve yourself of emotion would be much better served here."
To Kora's surprise Dalf's voice spoke to her from her pocket, "That is why I sent you Kora. Your kindness and love for all living things is needed there. Your desire to save every life possible be it friend or foe and whether or not you can save your foes is irrelevant the simple act of trying shows your enemies that there could be a better way. Life is precious, no matter whose life it is. Don't let the hardships of this world change that about you. I had called to check in and I guess you must have picked up without realizing it. Keep trying Kora and even if you can't save your foes you can at least save Mortre. Me being there may have made fighting your enemies easier, but then they wouldn't even get the chance to be saved, that is a gift you can give where I cannot. Don't give up and stay strong."
The line was severed as fresh tears poured out of Kora's eyes and they would last into the night until she finally fell asleep on her mount's back as they stopped to make camp. The mount would remain until either Kora dismissed it or someone took her off its back.
03/18/2018 07:17 PMPosted by Kersia“We make camp here,” Kersia announced as she slipped off Zaria. She helped Sterixia dismount. “Then tomorrow, we go until we reach Gadgetzan.”
They had been riding for some time now. Richard was worn out. Another long, seemingly endless day was coming to a close and he only wanted the sweet relief of sleep. He yawned as he slid off of Swiftwind.
The strange one was talking again, something about water maybe or warmth. He didn't know. He walked over to where she was and watched her do her thing. She had a deeper connection to the elements than he realized if she could make clean water come from nowhere.
He took a few drinks wetting his dry mouth. "Satisfying." was all he said.
And with that it was time to rest. He brought Swiftwind over to the rock formation and tied her around a smaller part of it sticking out. Seemed like a good as place as any. Synthara followed him as he slumped onto the dirt not a few moments away. She lay behind him, his head resting on her underside.
He didn't care about watches or anything of that nature. If they wanted to keep an eye on scorpions, huge bugs, pirates, or whatever the hell lived in Tanaris they could do so. It wouldn't be the first time he'd been kidnapped by pirates at night. Nor would it be the first time to fight off something that would wake him up from his sleep.
- Brave Baine Bloodhoof -
Baine had been traveling with the group in silence. The events at the cave leaving him in deep thoughts as he prayed to the Earthmother for guidance. While he did not care for nor trust the Black dragon whom once accompanied them having his fate be shared with the female of his species it was strange how as of yet, nobody had mentioned anything about it. True they were all exhausted from the ordeal and Baine himself felt like he'd lost several pounds in sweat alone. Perhaps they just had not noticed his absence, or just the same did not want to speak of the loss.
Before the Tauren even noticed their leader stopped them and suggested strongly they should make camp for the night. Baine was in no effort to argue. They seemed to have made great strides from the cave and with the sun setting his priority shifted to making a suitable fire for the group. The desert was quite hot during the day, but nights allowed for a cold chill to sweep the landscape.
Baine and his animals returned to the group with kindling and stones to make a fire pit as the Tauren build the structure. Taking some of the stones he struck them against each other until some of the dry grass caught ablaze. The fire was slow to build but as the newborn embers took their fill of the smaller brush they grew to engulf the rest of the pit.
Baine grabbed some herbs and powder in his hand before releasing it into the blaze. The fire quickly engulfed the offering as it flickered in the night air. Those of the group whom partook in the warmth could also smell something soothing and almost refreshing coming from the light. The effect would be minor, but would grow throughout the night.
Baine had been traveling with the group in silence. The events at the cave leaving him in deep thoughts as he prayed to the Earthmother for guidance. While he did not care for nor trust the Black dragon whom once accompanied them having his fate be shared with the female of his species it was strange how as of yet, nobody had mentioned anything about it. True they were all exhausted from the ordeal and Baine himself felt like he'd lost several pounds in sweat alone. Perhaps they just had not noticed his absence, or just the same did not want to speak of the loss.
Before the Tauren even noticed their leader stopped them and suggested strongly they should make camp for the night. Baine was in no effort to argue. They seemed to have made great strides from the cave and with the sun setting his priority shifted to making a suitable fire for the group. The desert was quite hot during the day, but nights allowed for a cold chill to sweep the landscape.
Baine and his animals returned to the group with kindling and stones to make a fire pit as the Tauren build the structure. Taking some of the stones he struck them against each other until some of the dry grass caught ablaze. The fire was slow to build but as the newborn embers took their fill of the smaller brush they grew to engulf the rest of the pit.
Baine grabbed some herbs and powder in his hand before releasing it into the blaze. The fire quickly engulfed the offering as it flickered in the night air. Those of the group whom partook in the warmth could also smell something soothing and almost refreshing coming from the light. The effect would be minor, but would grow throughout the night.
As night fell and preparations were set, Kersia allowed herself to relax. The tauren, Baine, created a campfire, and put some additives in the blaze. It seemed to let off a relaxing aroma, which Kersia welcomed. As the fire blazed on, Kersia felt the relaxing fumes grow stronger, and soon she drifted into sleep. Her mind wandered to Draco and where he went, but she couldn’t be bothered to worry too much. He seemed to have turned on them at the end, so if he died, it was one less enemy at this point. Sterixia nestle in next to her.
After making water, Sylstyx laid down by the fire. She closed her eyes and focused on the sounds of the camp, the crackling fire, the water of the basin, the light breeze, the earth shifting between moving feet. Here she felt attuned to the elements, and soon sleep drifted over her.
Vynianyx clawed her way atop the rock near the camp. Here she laid down, her feline eyes scanning the area for threats. As she grew bored in the night, she took to watching the stars, only leaving her post to get a log of wood from a nearby grove for the fire.
The night passed without much incident, and soon Kersia was ready for everyone to leave camp again. As people woke up and got to cleaning up, Kersia addressed the group. “We’ve got a bit more ground to cover, but our reward for doing it timely will be soft beds and good food, in Gadgetzan. So, let us be off.” She hopped up onto her talbuk after she was done talking. Sterixia climbed up as well.
Sylstyx said a small prayer in draenic to the elementals of the area before making her way to her horse. She carefully climbed onto the horse’s back before having the creature follow Kersia. Vynianyx, sleepy eyed and tire, shifted back into an elf and got on her hippogryph. She rested her head against the hippogryph’s neck as Illuria followed behind Kersia, carefully stepping to keep Vynianyx from falling off.
It didn’t take very long to finish reaching the southernmost point they could. A crickety bridge spanned the chasm, but Kersia didn’t truly trust it to hold. It looked like it had seen better days, made by the pirates that used to live in the camp across the way. Kersia slid off her talbuk and approached. She focused her mana onto the bridge as she took hold of it. The arcane energy took hold, enchanting the bridge to be strong.
With relief, Kersia got back on her talbuk and lead the way onto the bridge. It was wide enough for the group to pass in a single line, with Kersia at the front. The bridge held well, perhaps it would have been fine without the enchantment, but Kersia didn’t want to chance it. Once the last person crossed, she broke her mana connection to the bridge and continued on.
Illuria took great pains to cross the bridge, doing it slowly and carefully, as Vynianyx slept on her back. She kept her wings up as a shield to keep the druidess from sliding off. She kept them up slightly even after getting off the bridge.
The pirate camp was deserted. There were bones and remnants of what appeared to be a fight. Kersia was unsure if perhaps the Alliance, Horde, or if even the goblins had enlisted adventurers to clean out the camp, or maybe the cult they were seeking cleaned them out. Whatever scared or chased out the pirates was some time ago, as the camp looked somewhat time worn. At least a few years old.
It sent a chill through Sylstyx’s spine, but the draenei just focused on the back of her horse’s neck. She kept her mind to herself, and closed herself off to the elements in this area. Fortunately it didn’t take long to traverse, and soon they were at and through the mountain pass between Thousand Needles and Tenaris.
The scorching heat of the desert soon washed over the group. The sun was past the halfway point of the sky, but the heat was still intense. Kersia found herself panting of all things, and would have blushed if it wasn’t for the fur. Sylstyx did her best to keep the group cool with little gusts of wind. Kersia refrained from using any more magic. The bridge did tap her a bit and to enchant the group or bubble it to be cool would only strain her mana stores more. After all, no one knew when the enemy might strike.
The sky had begun to shift from blue to orange when they finally reached the gates of Gadgetzan. Kersia turned her talbuk to face the group before they entered.
“I don’t care what you do. At this point, we know where the dragons are. You have the night in the city to unwind. Meet at these gates as the sun rises. I’ll head to the inn and pay for rooms for all, and open a tab. Feel free to use it, I’ll close it in the morning. If you decide your life is worth more than this venture and decide to stay here or head home, I will not judge you. However, thank you all for coming this far, and if you decide to remain, thank you for seeing it through.” Kersia nodded at the group before making her way to the inn.
After making water, Sylstyx laid down by the fire. She closed her eyes and focused on the sounds of the camp, the crackling fire, the water of the basin, the light breeze, the earth shifting between moving feet. Here she felt attuned to the elements, and soon sleep drifted over her.
Vynianyx clawed her way atop the rock near the camp. Here she laid down, her feline eyes scanning the area for threats. As she grew bored in the night, she took to watching the stars, only leaving her post to get a log of wood from a nearby grove for the fire.
The night passed without much incident, and soon Kersia was ready for everyone to leave camp again. As people woke up and got to cleaning up, Kersia addressed the group. “We’ve got a bit more ground to cover, but our reward for doing it timely will be soft beds and good food, in Gadgetzan. So, let us be off.” She hopped up onto her talbuk after she was done talking. Sterixia climbed up as well.
Sylstyx said a small prayer in draenic to the elementals of the area before making her way to her horse. She carefully climbed onto the horse’s back before having the creature follow Kersia. Vynianyx, sleepy eyed and tire, shifted back into an elf and got on her hippogryph. She rested her head against the hippogryph’s neck as Illuria followed behind Kersia, carefully stepping to keep Vynianyx from falling off.
It didn’t take very long to finish reaching the southernmost point they could. A crickety bridge spanned the chasm, but Kersia didn’t truly trust it to hold. It looked like it had seen better days, made by the pirates that used to live in the camp across the way. Kersia slid off her talbuk and approached. She focused her mana onto the bridge as she took hold of it. The arcane energy took hold, enchanting the bridge to be strong.
With relief, Kersia got back on her talbuk and lead the way onto the bridge. It was wide enough for the group to pass in a single line, with Kersia at the front. The bridge held well, perhaps it would have been fine without the enchantment, but Kersia didn’t want to chance it. Once the last person crossed, she broke her mana connection to the bridge and continued on.
Illuria took great pains to cross the bridge, doing it slowly and carefully, as Vynianyx slept on her back. She kept her wings up as a shield to keep the druidess from sliding off. She kept them up slightly even after getting off the bridge.
The pirate camp was deserted. There were bones and remnants of what appeared to be a fight. Kersia was unsure if perhaps the Alliance, Horde, or if even the goblins had enlisted adventurers to clean out the camp, or maybe the cult they were seeking cleaned them out. Whatever scared or chased out the pirates was some time ago, as the camp looked somewhat time worn. At least a few years old.
It sent a chill through Sylstyx’s spine, but the draenei just focused on the back of her horse’s neck. She kept her mind to herself, and closed herself off to the elements in this area. Fortunately it didn’t take long to traverse, and soon they were at and through the mountain pass between Thousand Needles and Tenaris.
The scorching heat of the desert soon washed over the group. The sun was past the halfway point of the sky, but the heat was still intense. Kersia found herself panting of all things, and would have blushed if it wasn’t for the fur. Sylstyx did her best to keep the group cool with little gusts of wind. Kersia refrained from using any more magic. The bridge did tap her a bit and to enchant the group or bubble it to be cool would only strain her mana stores more. After all, no one knew when the enemy might strike.
The sky had begun to shift from blue to orange when they finally reached the gates of Gadgetzan. Kersia turned her talbuk to face the group before they entered.
“I don’t care what you do. At this point, we know where the dragons are. You have the night in the city to unwind. Meet at these gates as the sun rises. I’ll head to the inn and pay for rooms for all, and open a tab. Feel free to use it, I’ll close it in the morning. If you decide your life is worth more than this venture and decide to stay here or head home, I will not judge you. However, thank you all for coming this far, and if you decide to remain, thank you for seeing it through.” Kersia nodded at the group before making her way to the inn.