Finding Good Help These Days

Sunlight sparkled off the flashing blade as it descended towards Braeth'el's head. With a deft move his dagger came up, deflecting the blow away from him. The sword's path stopped abruptly, it's wielder sliding it back around to his right in a vicious counter-attack that forced him to dodge, the sound of his second dagger's hilt parrying the blow ringing through the courtyard.

In front of him, Kyliska panted, her blade coming up again and her own feet sliding backwards as she avoided a vicious slash to her belly. She growled and charged forward again, her blade coming down and the double ring of two daggers crossing its path to stop it singing across the marble paving stones of Dayfire Estate's practice yard. Kyliska laughed, the sound low and vicious as she pressed on Braeth'el's daggers, forcing him to put extra effort in keeping the blade from his head. Muscles bulged in his arms as he forced her blade up, her body slamming into his as their weapons went up over their head.

Pressed face to face, he grinned at her and she leaned forward, kissing him for a lingering moment, the mixture of violence and passion making her blood sing, their weapons hanging over their heads. After a time he released the pressure on her sword and she took it in one hand, letting it drop beside her as they kissed again, one of his arms snaking around her waist as he sheathed his daggers.

"That was fun," Braeth'el breathed into her ear. "We should practice indoors next time..."

Kyliska nearly purred, her smirking lips parting to say something truly outrageous when a polite cough from the open curtained door leading into the estate caught her attention. She turned to see one of the servants there, the poor Sin'dorei looking extremely uncomfortable as he shifted from foot to foot, observing the lady of the house in her training leathers and Braeth'el in his cut tank top and leathers embracing.

"Yes? What is it? We're really very busy right now," Kyliska nearly growled.

"T-there's a visitor, Lady Sunblade. Er.. for Master Braeth'el. He's needed for a short time only, I'm sure," the servant stuttered.

Braeth'el nodded at the elf, giving him a wink while expertly giving Kyliska a pinch on her bottom that made her squeak and then bite her lip. "Of course. Bring them to my office if you would. I'll be there in a moment."

Reluctantly he released Kyliska, picking up a towel and rubbing it over his face and neck to remove the sweat the practice had worked up. If a visitor wanted to show up unexpectedly, he was hardly going to dress to impress. He nodded at Kyliska as he headed for the door, "I'll see you later."

Kyliska grinned and nodded herself before turning back towards the practice yard and heading for a training dummy to work off her excess energy.

******************************

Braeth'el's office was simple yet elegant enough to be impressive by Sin'dorei standards. The hardwood desk had neat stacks of paper, and filing cabinets made of fine oak stood to the right of the desk. Behind it was an armoire, the top of the piece of furniture open to display a collection of elegant wine bottles. The office itself was carpeted in a deep red that matched the lighter red and gold motif of the walls and door, and sunlight streamed in from the closed window overlooking the woods.

Braeth'el was seated behind his desk in the high-backed chair there when the door opened and the servant reappeared. Behind him walked a golden haired beauty of a Sin'dorei that he'd never seen before. The servant gave him a bow once, his voice more solid now as he announced the guest, "Dame Melsana Featherwind to see you, Master Braeth'el."

Braeth'el waved the servant away, nodding his thanks; he always hated the use of titles but sometimes it was necessary when guests were around and some of the servants wouldn't stop even when they weren't. Master at Arms indeed.

The golden-haired Sin'dorei stepped into the office as the door closed behind her and Braeth'el studied her for a moment. Dressed head to toe in gold and red mail armor that looked like it had been poured over her body while molten, it left little to the imagination. Where Kyliska was athletic and toned, this elf was lithe and wiry although she curved in the same places as his lover. He could sense a restrained agility and grace in her movements that would rival many of his rangers. The only thing that marred her beauty was a vicious looking scar beneath her right eye, the flesh there a faded pink color from whatever had made the wound.

She gave him an unreadable look before she shifted in place, removing a sack that had been slung over one shoulder and dumping it on Braeth'el's desk. He noted that she was armed to the teeth with golden daggers, a red and gold spear, and some collapsible traps strapped to her red and gold belt.

He shifted in place, reaching out to take the sack's drawstrings, his voice a rumble, "What is this then?" His question was answered a moment later when severed demon heads tumbled out and onto his desk. He could see other heads in the recess of the bags; likely demonic felhunters. He looked back up at the elf, a brow perched.

"Your estate is overrun with these creatures," she replied in a musical voice. "I've taken care of them, but your own rangers need to do a better job if you don't want your manor house infiltrated. They are hunting for something or someone on this property."

Something or someone on the property... Braeth'el's suspicions were aroused, but not at the huntress and not for a topic he'd care to discuss with her. He studied her for a moment before replying, "And you want compensation for these I take it?"

The elf shrugged at him as if it didn't matter, and he found himself grinning at her boldness, "I don't really care. I hunt what needs to be hunted. Coin is always nice but I can make due without."

Braeth'el nodded; he liked this huntress immediately, "And whom do you work for?"

"I work for Quel'Thalas, for Silvermoon. I'm not 'employed' by anyone if that is what you are asking. I was a Farstrider for a time," she replied.

"I see. Well, you've certainly done us a service here, and I would certainly be willing to give you some coin as bounty. Further though, we could use a ranger of your capabilities amongst our forces. If you think you'd be interested in staying for a while, at least until the reason for this incursion is resolved, I'm authorized to hire staff for the House and estate," he replied.

She tilted her head, her hair like a golden curtain shimmering in the sunlight, her eyes boring into his unflinchingly. When she replied, he nearly laughed, "One hundred gold per week, plus accommodations and access to your armory for equipment repair as needed."

Braeth'el leaned forward and grinned, "Fifty a week, plus the rest."

"Eight-five or I will return to the woods," she countered smoothly.

Braeth'el nodded, enjoying himself, "Very well, it is agreed then. There is just one more thing..." He reached under his desk and pressed a magic rune, summoning the staff. "For security reasons we need to check you over."

She stiffened and then nodded, "Fine by me."

A moment later the door to the office opened and a black haired mage entered the room. Braeth'el nodded to him and then looked at Melsana, "Melsana, meet Rayleth. He is one of our apprentices here and he will be examining you."

Braeth'el leaned back in his chair, studying the golden-haired elf for a moment. There was not even a twitch on her face, not a hint of recognition. She merely nodded, her voice flat, "A pleasure. You're here to 'check me over' as Braeth'el just indicated?"

Braeth'el grinned; she hadn't even used his title, definitely someone to keep on staff. For his part, Rayleth merely nodded and then stuttered, "Y-yes, if you don't mind m-miss. I just need you to hold still..."

She nodded again and then stood where she was, her arms at her sides. Rayleth moved around her, leaning in close to study her face, his eyes lingering on that scar as if wondering what could cause such damage. His hands waved in the air in front of her as he chanted, magic trickling out across her. Her spear, her daggers, and the traps at her belt began to glow a brilliant blue color.

"Hmm, s-she has enchanted weapons, Master Braeth'el," Rayleth said nervously.

Braeth'el waved a dismissive hand, "Of course she does, she's a Sin'dorei. You know what we're looking for."

Rayleth nodded, stepping closer to the elf, his voice apologetic, "S-sorry I need to p-place my hands on you."

"Whatever. Just get it done would you?" Melsana rasped.

Rayleth nodded again, his hands on her shoulders, his fingers running down her arms while he chanted. He then moved to her sides, hands running down her hips. He paused for a moment, hesitating, his hands moving towards her belt as if something around her navel had attracted his attention but he didn't know what to do about it.

In all his life, Braeth'el had rarely seen someone move as fast as Melsana did. Her knee came up into Rayleth's crotch so hard and fast that he almost felt it. As Rayleth fell over, Melsana's hands grasped his hair and guided his face very un-gently towards the edge of Braeth'el's desk, the crack of his face hitting the wood echoing through the room. As Rayleth crumpled to the ground, Melsana's hands slammed on Braeth'el's desk, her voice furious, "You asked me to do a job as a huntress. I'm not working at a damned brothel for you. If that's what you think, find someone else!"

Braeth'el held up a hand to calm her, smirking in amusement as one of Rayleth's hands shakily clung to the edge of the desk, the apprentice slowly pulling himself upright. His nose was bleeding and his glasses were broken. When he spoke, it was with a wheezing wince that made Braeth'el cringe in sympathy, "S-she's got...no magic I can detect on her....other than...the weapons...."

Braeth'el nodded and then offered Melsana a smile, "You've passed our test. Congratulations, you're hired. You can meet with Andithiel, our ranger captain, for your assignment and quarters. I'll have someone show you the way."

Melsana stood upright, as if considering whether or not to walk out. After a moment she nodded, her voice clipped and sarcastic, "Fine. I will see you soon then, sir."

As she turned and strolled out of the room, stepping over the still crumpled Rayleth, Braeth'el could only chuckled to himself. That one was going to be trouble for sure, but certainly useful. And amusing.

Endings

Biara sat at her desk, piles of paperwork stacked up before her in both her completed and unfinished stacks, hours of work ahead of her. She sighed, her quill running across the paper before her as she completed yet another requisition form for the Magistrate to review.

A soft knock on the door brought her blessed relief, and she looked up from her work, "Come in."

The door opened and Rayleth stood there, a grim expression on his face as he paused in the doorway. After a moment he seemed to find his nerve and entered the room, closing the door quietly behind him and walking hesitantly towards the desk, "You summoned me, Magistrix?"

Biara sighed and waved a hand, "You may still call me Biara, and yes I did summon you. It's time we had a talk now that my head is clear."

Rayleth nodded, slowly sinking into a seat across from her, his voice steady, "You have been keeping me away."

Biara met his gaze, her tone even, "I have. After...what happened to me, and what passed between us at that time, I needed time to myself to think. I saw how you reacted when you saw me. It was not what you were expecting, was it?"

Rayleth considered the question for a moment and then finally nodded, "No, it wasn't. I expected you to sometimes need to risk yourself in battle, you are a battle-mage after all, but this was different. You were supposed to have been going to the city to go shopping, and you returned a bloody mess."

Biara sighed, toying with the feathered end of her quill, "Before, I told you about the difficulties of my life, of being with me, but I don't think you had a chance to truly come to terms with it. My life can be taken at any moment. At all times there are enemies who wish me ill, or may be battles that I must face for the good of the Sin'dorei. I cannot shirk these duties or stand idly by while others are placed in grave danger that I could avert with my magic. You now see what I really meant."

Rayleth nodded slowly, "I do."

Biara paused, studying him for a moment, "You may speak freely with me, Rayleth. Even if you say things that are hurtful to me, I will not hold them against you, nor deny you your place here. I need to hear what you are thinking, what you are feeling."

He sighed and nodded, "I was scared. For you I mean, but for us as well. I just never thought...well, that you could be taken from me so easily."

"It made you reconsider, didn't it?" Biara said softly. "This is not the first time that I have had suitors come to this realization, nor will it be the last. Everything that you saw is the truth of the matter. I will die doing what I was born to do; fighting for our city. That day could be a hundred years from now, or it could be tomorrow."

Rayleth looked grim, "I know. I just wish it could be different, that you didn't have to do this. It makes everything so hard."

Biara nodded, "Courage is not the lack of fear, but it is acting even when you do fear. Even so, I will not consider you a coward for being afraid for me, and for what we've had between us. You simply didn't fully understand."

"I don't think words can adequately explain it until you experience it," Rayleth said softly. "I want you to be happy, to be safe, but at the same time what we have is then on a knife's edge."

Biara frowned and sighed again, "It always was, you just didn't know. The only way for us to truly be, is for you to sacrifice more and accept that it must be this way. If you cannot, if the doubt and worry gnaw at you too much, I will not hate you or wish you ill for being unable to handle it. Suitors who I would have expected even more from than you have fled from this, and I understand it."

Rayleth nodded, "I...need some time to think about it, if that's alright?"

Biara smiled sadly, "In some ways, that is all the answer you needed to give, but yes go and take the time you need. You can return to the garrison and when you are ready, send for me. Regardless of what you believe though, promise me one thing?"

Rayleth tilted his head, "What is that?"

"Promise me that you will at least care for me, and be my friend," Biara said softly. "I have too few of those."

"Always, Biara. Always," he replied with conviction. He nodded, slowly rising from his chair and looking at her one last time, "Regardless of how I feel about...all of this, I still admire you for what you do, for your courage. I think everyone should."

Biara smiled and nodded, "If only the world worked that way. Farewell for now, Rayleth. I hope when next we speak it is of more pleasant or casual things."

"Farewell, Biara," Rayleth said with a sad smile. He turned and walked from the room, closing the door behind him.

Biara sighed again, rising from her desk and leaving her pile of paperwork behind. She headed towards a set of double glass doors that lead to the balcony connected to her upper floor office, pushing them open and letting the sunlight in. Walking across the balcony, she leaned against the stone railing, looking down into the courtyard below.

Far below her, Kyliska's Blood Knights trained, the sunlight sparkling off of their swords. Biara leaned on the railing, a head held in one hand as her eyes wandered across the elves training there, spying one that she sought. There, off to one side, two Sin'dorei stood near a third, holy Light flowing from them and into their target as they practiced their healing arts and prayers. The day was hot, and the elves had stripped down to the bare essentials.

The blood knight Myriel wore a tight bodysuit, meant to be donned beneath a set of plate armor. Standing beside her, muscles glistening with sweat in the sunlight, a bare-chested Evindar practiced his magic, his hands aglow as he cast spell after spell, his form rippling as his hands darted forward to place his spells on his target, his blonde hair flowing in the soft breeze.

Biara watched him for a time, smiling secretly as she gazed unobserved at his practicing. When she saw Evindar say something that was apparently a joke and the other Knights around him began to laugh, Biara became amused with herself as a streak of jealously shot through her when Myriel placed a hand on his arm, patting him after whatever jest he'd made.

Oh if only things were different. If only I were truly free now that I've given up my role as the Lady Sunfire and abdicated to Kyliska. Why, if I could do as I pleased, I'd shout down into that courtyard right now and order Evindar to come up into my quarters and-

"A lovely day, isn't it, Biara?" Braeth'el's voice said softly behind her. He moved to stand beside her, his footsteps having been silent.

Biara nearly jumped, her face blushing bright pink in an instant, "Oh y-yes, yes it's a lovely day, Braeth'el."

Braeth'el smiled at her, as if he was quite aware of what she had just been thinking. He said nothing of it though, nodding at her, "I apologize for saying so, but I accidentally overheard what you and Rayleth were discussing. I think you made the right decision to speak to him as you did."

Biara's smile faded and she nodded. She turned and looked back out over the courtyard, "It was hard to let him go. I wanted so badly to have what you and my sister have."

Braeth'el patted her arm reassuringly, "You will one day, but he was not the right one. Think of this; you need someone who will be beside you in battle all of the time. Your life, like my own and Kyliska's, is one of risk. He is a civilian in the end, even if he performed admirably in a battle. I know you, Biara. I've watched over you for your entire life. You need a strong Lord to fight by your side, a Knight or a warrior of renown. You will find it, eventually."

Biara smirked, "Or I'll die of old age long before...and given my contamination with temporal magics, who even knows when that will end up being..."

Braeth'el shook his head, leaning on the railing beside her, "Just be patient, my friend. I never thought that I would find it either. I wasn't even looking for it, but your sister kindled something in me that I would never have found on my own. It will be the same for you one day."

Biara sighed, waving a hand at him, "Just be sure that when you marry her you have a large number of eligible bachelors in your wedding party please."

Braeth'el barked out a laugh and nodded, "I will see it done, Magistrix."

For a time, the two fell silent, merely watching the knights training down below. After a while, Braeth'el stirred, his tone more serious, "I need to ask you how your progress goes in searching for Telatha. I'm becoming worried."

"As am I, honestly," Biara replied. "I've found no sign of her with all of my magical resources, although I have evidence that she survived the battle around the Dark Portal. I have even spent considerable coin for hints of information relating to her and offered to pay goblins of all things to hunt for her, but to no avail thus far."

Braeth'el nodded, "I am grateful that you are expending so much effort on this. I know that you are quite busy with other, much more important things."

Biara looked at him, shaking her head, "Nothing is more important than our family. I will find her, I swear it. Actually...I had a thought, although it is not a pleasant one, about what more we might do."

"Oh?" Braeth'el asked.

Biara looked him directly in the eyes, her tone flat, "We should find out if she was captured by the Alliance. I believe we need to tap into your SI:7 contact."

Braeth'el blinked, "Rosellina Cooke? She would be able to find out if Telatha had been captured or if the Alliance was aware of her whereabouts, but....what would motivate her to aid us?"

Biara gestured behind her, "I have prepared a redacted report of the battle for the Felo'melorn garrison. It fully details the strength, disposition, and deployment of the Iron Horde forces that assaulted that position. Given that the Felo'melorns were wiped out there, and that the Iron Horde still controls that territory, they are hardly state secrets that would bring harm to the Sin'dorei. I am willing to exchange this information for information that will allow us to locate Telatha, but you must ensure we get a fair deal in exchange. You are the only one I would trust with such a task."

Braeth'el considered this carefully, finally nodding, "What you propose isn't treason, as you aren't giving away any state secrets...and we're not technically at war with the Alliance at the moment anyway. It seems like a sound plan, but....Kyliska. She's going to be annoyed with you if she finds out."

Biara's tone was cool now, "Then see to it that she never finds out, Braeth'el. My sister...is quite capable, but she is untested in her new role. She would not understand that sometimes necessity requires bold moves like this. Agent Cooke is not a threat to us, as we know her identity, and if she can be of use to us, then a fair trade is reasonable."

Braeth'el fell quiet for a long time, turning to stare out into space, "I can do this for you, but understand that my days in active service are coming to an end. I send agents to do this kind of work now. I want to settle down, to retire. I want to spend my best years holding your sister in my arms and waking with her in the morning."

Biara nodded, turning away from him and looking out over the courtyard, "And I want to see my daughter grow into an adult, but I know that I will likely die long before that happens. We do what we must for Quel'Thalas and for our family. I understand what you are saying though; I will burden you no further once this task is done, and leave you to your happiness."

Braeth'el nodded, looking troubled, "Very well then, I will do as you ask. Your plan sounds like it could bear fruit. If not, it will reinforce our contact with what could potentially be a non-hostile enemy agent in the long run."

Biara nodded, not looking back at him, "You have your orders then. See to it that my sister remains ignorant of this; she won't understand the need."

Braeth'el turned, his voice carrying over his shoulder as he departed, "I've never betrayed the secrets of this House, not even to you, Biara. I'll do my job, as I've sworn to do long ago."

After he was gone, Biara stood quietly for a time, staring out into the blue sky beyond and ignoring the Knights down below now. Her heart was heavy with the many secrets, plots, and deceptions that had long plagued her rule of House Sunfire. Even now, even when she'd stepped down, they continued to stir and she knew deep within her heart that she would have to continue her course for the good of her people.

"I do what I must for Quel'Thalas," she whispered to no one.

The Aftermath

The double doors to Sunfire Estate banged open, a crowd of shouting guards pouring in through the opening and instantly turning the foyer into utter chaos. Braeth'el strode down the hall towards the mass of elves, his voice rising over the shouting in an attempt to restore order. If he was going to be the Master at Arms, then they'd damned well better listen when he gave orders.

"Step aside at once! Clear the way so they can bring her through! Let's go people!" his voice carried through the small space.

Guards began to obey him, shifting in position, a few trying to exit the room through doors leading deeper into the estate while others tried to melt against the wall to give space. Another mass of guards poured through the opening, this time the group closely packed and carrying a limp form in their arms.

"Let's move! Get her to the dining hall. Clear the tables and chairs out of the way and get a divan in there immediately!" Braeth'el shouted.

Guards immediately jumped to obey him, pouring into the dining hall and moving the furniture. The sounds of wooden chairs on marble flooring could be heard through the hallway. The tightly packed mass of guards neared Braeth'el and he could finally see through the crowd to spot her.

Biara was a bloody mess. Semi-conscious and being carried by six of her guardsmen, it was obvious she had been in brutal combat and had not fared well. That she needed immediate medical attention was beyond question; Braeth'el only hoped he was up to the task of getting it to her in time given his new position.

"Let's go! I want her in that room on a divan in less than thirty seconds do you hear me?! You there, summon the Blood Knights! We need at least two healers. You and you, seal off the hallways and get these people out of here!" Braeth'el barked.

Guards hopped to obey, the six carrying the wounded Magistrix bursting into the dining hall where a red and gold divan had been placed and the furniture had been cleared to the side. As the men carried her, Braeth'el could see blood dripping steadily from her right arm, which hung limply down. Her head lolled in time to their movements, and her face was ashen; none of these were good signs.

Biara was quickly and gently placed on the divan, the guards that had been carrying her scurrying out of the way as Braeth'el made his way to her side. A quick visual inspection revealed that she had been badly wounded on her arm, likely from a blade, her dress was torn at her left side and scorched, and there was soot on the left side of her face with blood trickling from a cut on her mouth. All of her limbs seemed to be intact otherwise though, and Braeth'el came to the conclusion that she likely didn't have any broken bones. The loss of blood was concerning however, and he knelt down beside her as the door to the dining hall burst opened and two plate-armored blood knights rushed into the room.

Biara moaned, her arm gushing blood onto the white marble floor, the crimson liquid spattering the stones. Her eyes were glassy, and Braeth'el drew a knife, gently starting to cut away the fabric of her dress on her right arm, his voice calm, "Easy, Biara. It's going to be alright. Just hang in there okay? We've got healers here."

One of the blood knights came to a halt next to Biara's left side, prayers already on her lips as she held her hands over the wound to the Magistrix's side. That was a minor concern though, and the second blood knight looked at the revealed arm with a frown; the flesh on her inner arm had been torn by a blade, the slice easily ten inches long and spilling her life blood. It required immediate attention to ensure that she would survive the blood loss.

Biara moaned again, her head rolling to the side. Dully her eyes made contact with Braeth'el, her voice weak, "T-take care of Kyli for me. P-promise me."

Braeth'el shook his head, his voice firm, "Don't talk like that; you're going to be fine. Are all Magistrixes as dramatic as you? Besides, you know I'll take care of Kyli. That should never have been a question."

Biara smiled, her eyes starting to roll as her gaze became unfocused. The blood knight kneeling on Biara's left began to pray, his hands over the wound, "Sir, we're going to need to stitch this. The wound is too serious and the blood loss is too great. Myriel, I'm going to need your assistance with this one. Her other wounds can wait."

The second blood knight nodded, finishing her prayer and hurrying around to Biara's left side. She looked at Braeth'el and shook her head, "This is going to hurt. Try to keep her conscious, sir. It would be better if she didn't pass out right now."

Braeth'el nodded and gave the two blood knights some space, turning to walk around to Biara's other side. He took her hand in his own, blood making the grip slick and wet. His voice was firm, "Biara. Look at me and focus on my voice. You need to stay with us okay?"

Biara's head lolled towards him, her eyes barely focusing on him, "Braeth'el? There was a battle. Alliance raiders...or mercenaries...I don't know. Many died, I-I couldn't stop them..."

Her grip on his hand tightened with immense pressure as one of the blood knights began to stitch her wound closed, the second blood knight praying over the injury. Biara's eyes began to close, and Braeth'el quickly reached out with his free hand, taking her face in his hand by her cheeks, forcing her to look at him, "Biara'thiel Dayfire! Stay. Awake. Do you understand me?"

Biara's eyes snapped back open, locking with his as a cry escaped her, the pain of the stitching process evident in the tightness of her grip, "I-I'm here. S-sorry...I feel sleepy. My arm hurts..."

Braeth'el released her head, kneeling beside her, "It's okay, they're almost done. It's just a little flesh wound and they'll have it fixed up in no time. You might have a little scar there when it's all done, but nothing too bad."

Biara's nose crinkled and she shook her head slightly, "Just another one....doesn't make a difference..."

The praying blood knight finished his spell, light flowing into the Magistrix's arm. She sighed in relief as the healing power flowed through her, the wound closing tightly around the stitches and the terrible blood loss halted. It was clear by her slack grip that the pain had also receded a bit.

In that moment, the door to the dining hall banged opened and a crowd of elves began to pour into the room, all shouting questions of concern. Amongst them were several of Biara's apprentices, Rayleth included. His eyes locked with Biara, his gaze taking in the blood all over the floor, the wounds she'd suffered, and the condition of her clothing and body. Biara instantly saw him, and tried to sit up straighter, her chin held up as if in defiance, as if to show him that this is who and what she was.

In that moment as their gazes met, Biara saw fear flash across Rayleth's face. He tried to hide it, tried to force it down, but it had been enough. Biara had seen that look a thousand times on the faces of many suitors; the look of horror that dawned on each of them when they came to understand what her life was. Rayleth crushed it down deep inside, his expression changing a fraction of a second later, but Biara had seen enough to know.

The blood knights beside Biara rose, their voices shouting at the others to get out of the room immediately, to give her space to breathe, to give her time to heal, but Biara didn't need any of that. She just needed something she couldn't touch, something she could only feel. As the last of the elves, including Rayleth, were shooed from the room by Kyliska's angry blood knights, Biara felt tears on her cheeks.

Braeth'el knelt back down beside her, and in an instant she had wrapped her uninjured arm around him, weeping bitterly. Although surprised for a moment, Braeth'el nodded, putting an arm around the weeping Magistrix and gently patting her back and making circles with the palm of his hand, "It's okay, Biara. We all fall down sometimes. I know what this is about; he had to see it. He'd seen it in Draenor from what you've told me, but that was war. Now he knows that this is life with you. Give him time to absorb it, and I'm sure he'll come around."

For a time Biara said nothing, merely weeping against him until she'd finally shed all her tears. Exhausted, she released her grip on him, easing herself back down onto the divan in obvious pain. The blood knights stood over her, still praying to ease her pain further.

Braeth'el stood up, looking down at her and shaking his head, "You're taking this way harder than you normally do. I've seen you injured about a million times now and you're not even halfway to 'fucked up' as I've thought of your condition on a few occasions. Don't take it so hard; it's just a scratch."

Biara grimaced at him, shaking her head, "Does it look okay? I don't even want to look at it..."

Braeth'el grinned, trying to ease the tension, "No, your hair is an un-salvageable disaster I'm afraid. You're going to have to start all over at the beauty salon. I'm terribly sorry for your loss."

Biara grinned, too exhausted to even swat at him with her hand, "You're terrible, you know that right?"

"Oh, I know. I've got more bad news for you, by the way," Braeth'el replied. "Since your sister made me Master at Arms, I'm afraid I'm going to have to confine you to bed for the rest of the evening and day tomorrow so you can recover." He glanced over at the two blood knights, who nodded their approval at him. "I don't want to hear any arguments about it either, young lady."

Biara smiled, letting go of both her physical and emotional pain for the moment, nodding at him, "You always know the right thing to say, Braeth'el. I can see now why she loves you. One day one of these battles will take me from her, and I'm glad to know that she'd got someone like you to watch over her. I know we spoke of this before, but know that you have my blessing to court her. I would welcome such a man as you into my family."

Braeth'el's grin widened, and he patted Biara on the hand, "Admitting you were wrong? You really were wounded badly weren't you? Very well, Magistrix, I shall consider this an official command to see to your sister's every need. In the meanwhile though, we will see to yours; bed rest and some food and drink are in order. I'll get the guards to take you there, and no, you're not walking on your own."

Biara sighed, shaking her head, "Very well. I shall submit to your authority in this matter my friend."

"Good, I'll be right back with the guards to help us with this," he said, nodding at her.

Braeth'el turned to leave and Baira watched him go, her own thoughts swirling through her mind and clouded by pain. Her very career had thrown a wrench into her personal relationships, as it always did, and she was going to have to find a way around that problem one way or another. She'd be damned if a little spilled blood would spell the end of yet another romance.

As she was carried towards her quarters by a quartet of silent blood knights, Biara finally let the pain and exhaustion overcome her, and drifted into an uneasy rest, her mind still picking at the question until blessed unconsciousness took her fully.

Once in Forever

Biara's laughter rang out through the forest, the sound musical and full of joy. It almost made her pause for a moment, her own laughter sounding so carefree. When was the last time she'd made such a sound? When she was a child perhaps, long ago when the cares of the world were not something she concerned herself with. She laughed again, just for the pure enjoyment of the moment, her hands coming down to hike up the hem of her dress and allow her to dash more quickly across the uneven terrain beneath the golden boughs of the trees of Eversong Woods.

Behind her came Rayleth's shout, his voice full of mirth as he scolded her, "Get back here! I'm going to get you for that!"

Biara laughed again, pausing beside a tree and whispering a word of magic as she held her hand palm upwards. Magical energy sparkled there for a moment, the air freezing and condensing into a crisp ball of fresh snow. She grinned impishly, peeking around the tree before hurling the snowball towards Rayleth's approaching figure, the cold ball striking him in the chest in a puff of snowflakes that dissipated quickly in the magically warm air of the enchanted woods.

Biara ducked back behind the tree that she'd been using for cover, smiling as she heard Rayleth sputtering from the cold flakes that had burst all around him. Magic could be deadly and powerful, but when one had a moment of freedom it could also be used for simple, fun or artistic things. She laughed again, picturing the look on his face as it hit him the first time she'd done it.

His voice had fallen silent, and Biara quickly turned and peered around the edge of the tree again. Her eyes widened as she realized he had slipped out of her sight, for he was nowhere to be found amongst the beautiful forest beyond. A moment later she squealed as a pair of hands wrapped around her waist, Rayleth materializing from invisibility behind her and catching her.

"Got you!" he laughed, pulling her towards him and holding her tightly.

Biara squealed again, laughing so hard now that she could barely catch her breath. She feigned defeat, collapsing against him as he drew her to him and causing them both to topple over backwards. He landed on the ground with an 'oof!', his back against the tree that had been providing her with its questionable defense, her own body landing gently in his lap.

"You are quite the forester," Rayleth said with some mirth.

Biara continued to laugh, finally managed to catch her breath as she shifted so she could peer into his eyes, "And you have learned how to properly cast and maintain an invisibility spell!"

"It is not very difficult to learn when my instructor is so beautiful," Rayleth said. "It makes one tend to focus on what she is saying quite closely."

Biara blushed at this, smiling and looking away from him, "Would that I had met you before I obtained all of my many scars. Perhaps I would have better lived up to such bold words."

Rayleth's smile faded only slightly, and he reached out to caress the wards on Biara's cheek, bringing her gaze back to his, "I've had ample opportunity to study what you think are blemishes to your beauty. I assure you, they do nothing to take away from what you are or make you less pleasing to the eye. I'm sure there are quite a few Sin'dorei who would kill for the chance to see the things I have seen."

Biara smiled at this, leaning forward to kiss her apprentice, her voice a low whisper, "If you keep speaking so sweetly I fear I will be even more smitten with you. Be careful with my heart; it has been through quite a lot in its time."

"Then I will handle it with the utmost care," Rayleth said, kissing her again. "I have never owned much in my life, but I would gladly trade everything in exchange for that most valuable treasure."

Biara sighed and leaned against him, cuddling with him and letting her eyes drift closed for a moment. Her hand rested against his chest, his heartbeat beneath her fingertips pulsing in time with her own. In the distance, a stream bubbled and gurgled and a soft breeze stirred the leaves in the boughs above them. She whispered to him softly, "I wish that I could stay in this moment forever."

He wrapped his arm around her, holding her close, his tone tender as he replied, "We can hold it forever, and set aside the rest of the world."

Biara stirred in his arms, her fel green eyes opening and staring into his. A hint of worry passed across her face as she gazed at him, and he looked down at her, a question in his own gaze. When she spoke now, she was hesitant, as if afraid of what would come next, "There is something I need to tell you. I should have told you this in the first place, but I was selfish and wanted my moment, wanted all of this. It's not fair to keep it from you though."

He frowned but held her gaze, nodding at her, "Tell me then, Biara. I wish for there to be nothing that troubles your mind, especially on my behalf."

She nodded at him and replied, "I have a daughter. Her name is Astariel Dayfire."

Rayleth looked surprised for a moment and then he smiled, "That is a wonderful thing, and not something to be afraid to tell me. I am somewhat surprised that I had not heard of her in the Magistrate, but this is not terrible news at all!"

Biara smiled at his words, "Do you really mean that? Because she is very important to me. I have risked everything...my life, my magic, my very existence for her. For her I have torn asunder barriers that should never be approached, and I would fight any battle on her behalf. She is a part of my heart and world, and if you seek to hold my heart you must know that she is a part of that."

Rayleth took one of Biara's hands in his, still holding her gaze, "That only makes your heart that much greater. Of course I mean it when I say it is wonderful! This is not something that would deter me or make me turn away, nor should it be. If she is a part of your life then she is important to me as well."

Biara smiled, leaning her head against his chest and holding him tightly for a moment, "I have dreaded talking about this, and now you've made me feel silly. I should have trusted that you would be open minded to this, and kind hearted as well. I have hidden her presence from the outside world to a degree, with only a few outside of my House aware of her. It is to keep her safe, protected, and happy that I do this."

Rayleth hugged her tight, leaning down to kiss the top of her head and then pausing to admire the flame red locks that spilled across his chest, "I will carry knowledge of her as a secret, even to my grave. You have my word on that. And if danger should threaten her, I will stand beside you to keep her safe."

Biara snuggled up against him, her eyes closed again as she listened to his heartbeat against her, her own arm wrapped around him. For a time, she just lay there, the sun playing across her and the soothing breeze almost lulling her to rest. He had fallen silent as well, content to lean against the tree behind him and hold her in his arms, marveling at the fact that he was actually doing such a thing, that a powerful noble and Magistrix had chosen him of all people to give her heart to.

Time passed, but seemed to also last for an eternity, and Biara smiled to herself, a thought playing through her mind and staying with her for the rest of that day, and many days to come afterwards.

This is what it is like to be happy. To love and be loved. This is what I have been missing for all of that time.

A Dinner Party

Special Note: This story has been co-written with Kyliska!

Kyliska was in Biara’s room and she set aside the dress that she wanted to wear for dinner. Kyli said that she would have it ready for when she arrived with her apprentice and friend Rayleth. Kyliska smiled as she smoothed out the dress thinking about meeting him. She knew that her sister had a crush on him, and she was interested to meet him. Biara did not really date or see people for that matter ever so Kyli was curious to see how she would react. Just through their small conversations Biara seemed very nervous at the thought of having Kyli meet him.

Kyliska decided to go to the kitchen to check on how the dinner was progressing. When Biara and Rayleth arrived, they would start with some appetizers and wine, and then move on to the actual dinner. Kyli thought they should all just sit around for a little bit to get to know each other. Kyliska had also invited Braeth’el to join them, sort of like a double date. Biara would not admit to that fact but it really was.

“Lady Sunfire! Everything is coming along quite nicely!” the head chef said. “We are preparing Miss Dayfire’s favorite meal as you requested. We shall let you know when it is ready, the appetizers will be ready within the next ten minutes or so.”

“Thank-you. My sister and her guest should be here shortly.” Kyliska started. “I just wanted to check on the progress, I am glad everything is running smoothly in here. I had no doubt that it was!” Kyli was in a great mood. She even decided to wear the new green stone earrings that Selenthiel had bought for her. She frowned slightly as she remembered their encounter. Well not their encounter, but when she had met with Andithiel at House Felo’melorn, he was not too inviting. He had angered her to no end, but then she came back to Sunfire Estate and Braeth’el was able to calm her. She then smiled as her thoughts turned to him. He could always calm her, and just make her at ease. She wasn’t sure what they were exactly to each other, and she did not mind. She knew they both cared about each other, and they were enjoying each others company, and she would leave it at that for now. No need to put a label on it for the time being. As long as they were both happy, did it really matter?

Kyliska walked in the hallway towards the front door, and then laughed as she realized that her sister would most likely not be arriving that way. She took a quick look in the mirror on the wall there. Her long blonde hair was down and silky smooth, with some stylish clips bring part of one side of her hair up and making her look a little bit more formal. She was wearing a dark green dress that complimented her figure quite well. It was slightly low cut in the front, but not overly so. She was not used to wearing dresses and walking in heels, but she was trying hard to dress the part as House Scion.

Kyliska started to pace slightly as she waited for her sister to arrive. Now she was starting to get nervous instead of her sister. She was not nervous to meet Rayleth, but she was nervous about the dinner party. It was the first one she was putting together and she wanted everything to go just right!

Just as Kyliska had finished admiring herself in the mirror, a voice spoke softly behind her, Braeth’el’s calm tone a soothing sound, “Well look at you; you’re looking like the Lady of the estate now, Kyli. Very well done.”

The spymaster smiled as Kyliska turned around, admiring her for a moment. He had also taken the time to dress himself for the occasion, his normally rough leather armor replaced with a stylish, button-down shirt that was opened on the top three buttons, a hint of a silver chain around his neck visible against his tanned flesh. The shirt hugged his torso, accentuating his strength and matching well with the tailored pants that he wore. To Kyliska’s amusement, a hint of a dagger’s bulge could be seen along one side of the spymaster’s leg; he clearly never went anywhere unarmed, not even to a simple dinner.

Kyliska whistled at Braeth’el and walked towards him. She smiled warmly at him as she gave him a hug. “Brae, you look so handsome! You do dress up quite nicely! I should have dinner parties more often!” She took a slight step back and admired him once more. He was a sight to see. One thing Kyli could appreciate was his muscular body and he chose his outfit well to show that off. “Also, that dagger is not hidden too well, are you trying to scare poor Rayleth? I do not think we have anything to worry about with him!”

Braeth’el grinned and shook his head, “No, but you never know when one of the structures that you two sisters own is going to come under assault. I’ll not be taken surprise while I’m enjoying a meal. I’ve made security arrangements as well since both you and your sister will be here this evening. No one will interrupt our meal or evening, you have my assurances of that. As an aside, you are ravishing, Kyliska.”

Kyliska blushed furiously. She had a crush on Braeth’el for as long as she can remember and she never got used to him complimenting her. She still could not believe that they had been together and were a quasi couple. “Braeth’el! Stop making me blush. But thank-you.” She laughed. “I am glad that you made such arrangements because I do want to enjoy this dinner! I know my sister is very nervous about us meeting Rayleth. She seems to have quite the crush on him, and it is adorable. From what she has said he seems to like her as well, so this will be very interesting!”

Braeth’el’s eyebrow rose in surprise at this, “She has a crush...on an apprentice? Am I sleep-walking again? What has gotten into your sister lately? She’s definitely a changed Magistrix from recent years. Does this Rayleth know anything about her, or even that she feels this way? Talk about strange!”

Kyliska laughed louder this time. “I know it is quite adorable really! I don’t even know if she wants me telling you this, so shush about it, ok? But just from what she was saying before, she definitely likes this guy. She sent me an image of what he looks like and he is not my taste in men, but seems perfect for her.” Kyliska paused. “And yes she has changed, as I am trying to change. I am very proud of my sister. I think she deserves happiness and I hope this Rayleth will be good for her. I am still trying to hold off judgement until meeting him though. I will have to let him know that if he hurts her he will have to deal with me!”

Braeth’el chuckled at this and shook his head, “I’m sure that will put him completely at ease when you threaten him. I will keep this information to myself though; I’m quite good at that as you probably had guessed. I just checked and the dining room is all prepared if you’d like to go there and wait for them. Knowing your sister, she will likely be precisely on time and not a minute sooner or later.”

“Yes my sister does like to be punctual, but I just want to do something real quick first!” Kyliska leaned into him and kissed him passionately. She clearly had not gotten enough time alone with him today. “Alright I’m ready now!”

Just as the two had begun to break away from the kiss, the nearby doors opened, servants leading the way for Biara and Rayleth to enter. Biara paused, clearly having seen her sister kissing the spymaster, a blush rushing from her exposed shoulders and cleavage all the way up to the very tips of her ears, competing with the deep red and gold dress for attention for a moment. Beside her, Rayleth paused, his black hair artfully arranged such that it looked less of a complete disaster than normal, his glasses perched precariously on the tip of his nose as always. Wearing a formal shirt and pants similar to Braeth’el, he was less impressive, his only saving grace the fact that his height made him tower over Biara and even stand taller than the spymaster. He smiled politely at the two, saying nothing as he glanced at the furiously blushing Biara.

“Kyliska! *ahem* We’ve arrived now and are ready for the dinner you’ve promised,” Biara said unnecessarily loudly to alert the two of her presence.

“Sister, you made it!” Kyliska exclaimed. She took Braeth’el’s hand and walked towards Biara and Rayleth. She then hugged her sister and also hugged a surprised looking Rayleth. “It is so good to meet you, I am Kyliska, but most people just call me Kyli. Welcome to our home! I hope you are doing well this evening!”

Rayleth blinked in surprise at the sudden contact, peering at Kyliska as if he expected her to sprout swords for a moment. Seeing that she was completely unarmed and in fact in a dress rather than battle armor, he took a deep breath and seemed to relax slightly, “Lady Kyliska, I just want to say that it is an honor to meet you. I have been working for your sister for several months now, and I have learned much of House Sunfire. I feel privileged to be invited to your estate, and would like to thank you for the invitation.”

Beside him, Biara managed to finally regain her composure, her blush fading slightly as she smiled at the two before her, nodding at Rayleth’s words, “And Braeth’el, it has been too long since I’ve seen you, old friend. We’ve much to discuss.”

Braeth’el nodded at Biara, eyeing her over for a moment as if suspicious before responding, “We do have much to discuss. Hopefully this pleasant dinner will also allow us a moment to discuss important business.”

Kyliska eyed Braeth’el and Biara curiously. “Is everything alright between you two? You seem….tense…..” she said. “Should Rayleth and myself leave you two alone to talk, or shall we go to the dining room?”

Biara frowned and shook her head, “Oh no, no, that’s not necessary. I’ve been looking forward to our dinner this evening. I’m sure anything Braeth’el needs to discuss can be discussed in front of everyone. Rayleth here is to be my research assistant, and will be privy to much of my business as I travel in Draenor, so it is best that he learn the basics now.”

Rayleth chuckled and shook his head, “As if I could learn all there is to know about House Sunfire in a single dinner Bia- er..Magistrix Dayfire.”

Biara glanced at him, her tone almost scolding, “Remember when I said to call me Biara in private? Kyliska and Braeth’el are family. You need use no formal titles here Rayleth.”

The gangly apprentice ducked his head, looking sheepish, “I apologize Biara. I didn’t realize that it would be alright and didn’t want to offend your sister! Do forgive me!”

“Offend me? I do not get easily offended about formalities Rayleth. I am new to being Lady Sunfire, my sister here has held that title for quite some time.” Kyliska said. “Anyway since we are all hungry and I’m sure dinner is ready now, let us move into the dining room and sit down!”

Kyliska lead her guests into the dining room. A small table was set up with fine china and glasses of wine set up at each place setting. There were some small appetizers in the middle of the table. “Please everyone sit down. Let us get to know one another a little better!” Kyli sat down and looked towards Rayleth. “So Rayleth, you are my sisters research assistant you say? How has that been going for you?” Kyliska started to drink some of her wine, a little too fast, and a servant came to refill her glass right away.

Rayleth blinked in surprise at Kyliska’s question, nearly knocking over his wine glass with his hands as he gestured. He managed to catch the glass at the last possible moment, only a single drop of the wine staining the tablecloth. He stammered a bit as he spoke, clearly not having expected to need to answer questions so soon, “O-oh! It’s been going quite well Lady Su- er...Kyliska? Your sister has been extremely generous both with her time and the resources available to the outpost where she has stationed her men. I am deeply grateful to have been given the opportunity to work with her honestly.”

Biara smiled at this, sipping her wine lightly, her hand shaking slightly as she held the glass. She looked away from the group as her apprentice spoke, clearly nervous. Braeth’el grinned at this, looking between the two and then shooting an amused smirk at Kyliska.

Kyliska smiled sweetly. “I am so glad you are enjoying your work! My sister is a very good teacher! I am sure she is very happy to share her knowledge with you.” Kyli took another large sip from her wine, she almost used the sleeve of her dress to wipe her mouth, but then thought better of it and used the napkin and lightly used it on her lips. She looked towards Biara now. “Sister, you seem awfully quiet, are you alright? I had the chef make your favorite meal tonight, I do hope you enjoy it! Please tell me more about both of your time spent on Draenor!”

Biara jumped, having been picking at a thread on the tablecloth in front of her. She looked up at her sister and took another sip of the wine, drinking quite a bit more than she had the first time. When she spoke, her voice was unsteady for a moment, “Oh...oh yes, well um, we’ve been doing a lot of research at the garrison and um, I’ve been reviewing the new apprentices that were sent from Silvermoon. Rayleth here is absolutely astounding, and has far surpassed the others which is why I decided to offer him the position of research assistant. Um….we’ve had issues with the Iron Horde there, and Rayleth has also been great with that and even aided me in battle!” By the time she was finished, Biara was virtually gushing praise and then she blushed as realized what she was doing. She quickly fell silent and began toying with the thread again.

Braeth’el frowned, leaning forward to study the Magistrix, “It sounds like you’ve had no luck in locating Telatha. Perhaps more resources should be dedicated to that task, hmmm?”

Rayleth chimed in, completely unaware of the tension between the two, “Oh we’ve been doing a lot of scrying, Mister Braeth’el! Actually half the apprentices have been set to this task at all hours. It’s been wearing many of them down. Biara is quite the taskmaster when she puts her mind to it!”

Kyliska laughed and finished her second glass of wine. “Yes I have heard that my sister can be quite the taskmaster! I am glad you are doing well in Draenor, and I do hope you find Telatha soon as well. I worry for her safety as well, she was very nice to me when I met her.” The servants walked into the room and started to remove the appetizers that were barely touched and brought out the main course. A third glass of wine was poured for her. She was drinking more than she had in a while, and it was starting to make her feel a little drunk since she had not eaten much throughout the day.

Kyliska put her hand under the table and onto Braeth’el’s leg. She was hoping no one would notice, not that she cared much if anyone did. “I am so glad sister, that you picked a worthy research assistant! Rayleth here seems to be very proficient in many ways. I do hope he can help you in anything that you might need……” she smirked.

Biara turned a little red at the comment, and quickly picked up a dinner roll and shoved it in her mouth, giving her an excuse not to provide an answer. For his part, Rayleth smiled brightly at Kyliska and nodded as he eagerly began to dig into his dinner, using the wrong utensils and immediately getting a red sauce on the sleeve of his shirt, “Oh yes Kyliska! I hope to live up to the confidence Biara has placed in me. I only want to be there for her should she need anything and ensure that she faces no hardships on my account or on anyone else’s account for that matter. She has been wonderful to me and I only hope I can repay her kindness.”

Beside Kyliska, Braeth’el stirred, studying Rayleth closely, “Not many have said such things about the Magistrix, or been so bold in proclaiming them when they did think them.” He shifted again, was he intentionally flexing his rippling leg muscles beneath Kyliska’s hand? Yes, yes he was. “I’m surprised honestly. I’d have thought that all of the apprentices would be terrified of Biara at this point and beg to avoid being sent into her service.”

Rayleth shook his head, gesturing with a lettuce covered fork as he spoke and chewed with his mouth open, “You know, I had heard all of those rumors, but really that is all they are. Just look at her! She’s a talented, lovely, and powerful Magistrix who has given much for our nation. Why wouldn’t I be pleased to be here honestly?”

After a moment Rayleth’s eyes widened and he looked down at his plate, finally realizing he had said too much. Beside him Biara was beet red, and yet a smile played across her lips as she took her wine glass up again, taking another long sip.

Kyliska drank another glass of wine, clearly not knowing when to stop and not touching her food. “Rayleth, you are adorable if I must say so myself! I absolutely adore you! The way you talk about my sister, it just makes me so happy. She needs someone in her life like you. You both would be quite a good fit for one another, wouldn’t you say Braeth’el?” she said, turning to look at him. Her hand massaging his leg as he flexed, moving it slightly higher.

Braeth’el grinned, seeing that Kyliska had clearly pushed her drinking a little too far, too quickly. He took up his own wine glass, leaning over towards her chair and putting his free hand on the back of it, his fingertips brushing the tip of one of Kyliska’s long, sensitive ears as it came down before he spoke to her almost in confidence, “I would have to agree Kyli. I mean, it is not often that one enjoys magic as much as Biara does, and it would seem our esteemed apprentice here fits that bill nicely.”

Rayleth nearly choked on his salad as Braeth’el spoke, his own face turning a shade of red that was only slightly lighter than Biara’s, “O-oh, well um...that is very nice of you to imply that I would be worthy of such a thing, but we are speaking of a Lady here and I mean, I’m just a farmer’s son and-”

“You are an apprentice, and your lineage is not important,” Biara blurted out, not daring to make eye contact with him. She took another sip of her drink before setting the wineglass down with shaking hands. “B-but I mean, I’m sure you have someone...you know, from back home and all and I-”

“Actually,” Rayleth cut in, “I d-don’t. I’ve always been too busy with my studies and trying to improve my magic you know? It’s difficult to find time to spend away from my books…” his voice trailed off lamely and for a moment both he and Biara turned and looked at each other, eyes wide as they gazed at one another.

Braeth’el grinned, running his hand up Kyliska’s back, “Adorable.”

Kyliska shivered in delight at Braeth'el's touch. She enjoyed his presence and touch immensely. Kyliska was slightly slurring some words due to the wine. "Why don't you two just make it official? It is clear you both have feelings for each other!" She leaned back and meant to fall into Braeth'el and almost fell off the chair.

Braeth’el grinned and caught Kyliska in his arms, shaking his head slightly, “Very subtle Kyli, well done. I’m sure neither of them are mortified now in the slightest. I believe you’ve had quite enough to drink my dear, and perhaps should also not be upright anymore as you’re a danger to yourself and your surroundings at this point.”

On the other side of the table, Biara gone from bright red to pale white, her head bowed and her hands flat on the table before her. She said nothing, her embarrassment plainly written across her face, her posture miserable. Rayleth had stopped eating, a fork-full of something delicious looking paused halfway between his plate and mouth, his eyes wide.

Kyliska shook her head and giggled. "Oh Braeth'el you are always saving me! Thank-you!" She then looked to her sister. "What is wrong Biara? You both clearly find the other attractive and you both speak so highly of one another! I also think you both are so cute!" Her eyes got a little more serious as she turned to look at Rayleth. "But Rayleth do know that if you were to ever hurt my sister there would be dire consequences and you would have to deal with me. I am not a friendly person when I am angry!" She then leaned back against Braeth'el instead of falling this time and sighed.

Rayleth set his fork down carefully, drawing in a deep breath as if composing himself before looking at Kyliska directly, “Lady Sunfire, I would never in a thousand years want to see harm befall your sister. After everything she’s done for me so far, and everything I’ve seen about her, I’ve come to know that she is a rare treasure of Quel’Thalas, and to even think of some dire event occurring to her makes me ill. You don’t have to threaten me, or even question me in this, and honestly I think discussing this in front of her at all is making her feel very uncomfortable. I do not wish to be the source of her discomfort.”

He nodded once at Kyliska, one of his hands sliding across the table and coming to rest on top of Biara’s as if to reassure her. She turned and looked at him, peering through the curtain of her red hair, a smile playing across her face again as she spoke softly, “Well said Rayleth, and you’re not a source of discomfort. My sister… just lacks in subtlety at times… I apologize for her loose tongue, or her presumption that you have such thoughts about me.”

Rayleth grinned and Biara and surprised her with his response, “Who said she was wrong?”

Kyliska could barely contain her excitement and let out a squeal! She did not say a word but looked to Braeth'el and smiled slyly. She tried to whisper to him. "Brae, you are right they are really so adorable! I'm not sure if we should leave them alone or something. I sure could spend some time alone with you, if you know what I meyou

Braeth’el grinned, “You are an insatiable beast at times, Kyliska. But yes, perhaps we should leave them to talk before you drink the estate’s entire stock of wine in one sitting. I suspect you are going to be feeling this tomorrow.”

He rose from his chair, offering his hand to Kyliska to help her up, grinning down at her rather impishly, “Actually, I know you are going to be feeling this tomorrow.”

Across the table, Biara and Rayleth were lost in their own world, the two paying little attention to Kyliska or Braeth’el. Biara’s eyes were wide and her mouth was open in surprise as she stared into the apprentice’s eyes, “Do you really mean that, Rayleth? Do you really wish to risk everything for this? Understand that the things I said to you earlier about the dangers I pose to you would be tenfold if I gave my heart to you. And it was something that would have to be hidden away, only for us to know.”

Rayleth picked Biara’s hand up, interlocking his fingers with hers, his voice steady as he spoke, “I understand the risks involved, and I’m willing to face them if it means I could share my heart with someone whose soul is so alike to mine. I have honestly been dreaming that I could tell you these things for some time now. I’ve admired you from the moment I laid eyes on you.”

Biara’s fingers interlaced with Rayleth’s, her hand holding his tight, “It has been an eternity since someone has been willing to risk this. Know that I have admired you as well, and that I am willing to do my best to live up to what you believe me to be.”

Kyliska watched them as she held Braeth'el's hand and smiled at their conversation. She didn't want to interrupt them but she did want to say something because she just could not keep quiet.

"Sister, And Rayleth I am so happy to see you sharing your feelings like this! See maybe you did just needed a little push to admit your feelings for one another!" She said. "I do apologize if I embarrassed either of you. But Biara I do approve of him. He is sweet and tender and clearly thinks the world of you. He is brave and is willing to protect you. There is no one else I could think of to be with you!"

Kyliska tripped slightly and caught herself before falling. "I'm fine I'm fine! Braeth'el and I shall retire to my room for the evening. You should both stay the night we have more than enough room! Such a pleasure to meet you Rayleth! I do hope I did not leave you with a bad impression of myself!"

Rayleth managed to tear his gaze away from Biara for a moment to dip his head at Kyliska, “It has been an honor, Lady Kyliska. A-and..thank you. I don’t think I could have said what I wished to say without you.”

He turned to look at Biara, still holding her hand, his voice soft, “So what now?”

Biara grinned at him, squeezing his hand in hers, “Now, my dear apprentice, I do believe that the Lady Kyliska Sunfire has officially declared you to be acceptable as my suitor. I believe that this is settled then, and we shall be spending a lot more time together going forward. As she said, you are welcome to stay in Sunfire Estate with us.”

Rayleth’s face turned a shade red again and he nodded, “Then its settled! Er...you have accommodations for me? I don’t mean to be a bother….”

Behind Kyliska, Braeth’el grinned and took her hand in his, gently leading her away from the table and towards the doors leading from the dining hall, “Come Kyliska, let us leave them to work out the details alone shall we? I suspect it’s going to take them all night at this rate and I’d really rather get to bed if you know what I mean.” He grinned and gave her hand a squeeze as he started to move.

"You are welcome!" She said a little too loudly at Biara and Rayleth. She let Braeth'el lead her away from the room. "I do hope they have as good a time as we will be having!"

Rayleth blinked and looked back at Kyliska and Braeth’el as the two passed beyond the double doors, Braeth’el’s deep voice saying something he couldn’t hear and Kyliska’s giggling echoing back into the room briefly. He looked back at Biara, an eyebrow raised, “Good time…? And what of the accommoda-”

Biara silenced any further words by leaning forward, her lips pressed against his as she kissed him passionately. She held the kiss for a long time, her eyes closed as she felt his free hand come up and wrap an arm around her. Happier than she’d been in the longest time, she reluctantly broke away from the kiss, her nose inches from his, her eyes bright, “You ask too many questions my dear. My sister said you were welcome to stay here, and stay here you shall.”

With that she rose rather hurriedly from her seat, her hand still grasping Rayleth’s and drawing him up after her, their half-eaten meal left behind as the apprentice found himself being urgently tugged towards the dining room doors by a ravishing red-haired beauty that had decided she’d had enough talking for one evening.

As they passed through the spire, Rayleth was not quite sure whose amusement and surprise was greater, his own or the servants who stopped to stare in open-mouthed shock as Biara hurried past them with him in tow. And then they were at the double-doors to her private chambers, and the barrier was closed behind them.

And then, for a time, he quite forgot about anything else.  

A Research Assistant

The top of the spirit lodge was open to the freezing cold winds of Frostfire, with the structure looming so high over the rest of the garrison that the land all around was visible. Fortunately, magical flames kept the cold at bay, and the hide covered roof of the somewhat primitive structure prevented snow from falling on any magical experiments or tomes that happened to be out.

Biara placed the finishing touches on the large prismatic crystal that she had conjured in the center of the open space, nodding in satisfaction at her work. Just as she finished, she heard Senior Apprentice Namia call to her from the stairwell below, "Magistrix Dayfire, the apprentices are ready for you when you've finished."

Biara turned towards the opening leading further down into the tower's core and called out, "I'm ready now, Senior Apprentice. Send them up."

With that she turned and stood beside the crystal, waiting as she heard the sound of footsteps growing nearer. Three Sin'dorei exited the stairwell and blinked in surprise as they saw the crystal, each of them shuffling along to stand in a line before Biara. The first of them was, of course, taller than the others, Rayleth's dark hair and glasses standing out beside the two blonde female Sin'dorei that had joined him at the top of the tower. The second of the two, Apprentice Lissa, seemed somewhat out of her league, awe on her face as she peered at experiments that were perhaps beyond her current skill level. The final apprentice, Apprentice Marielle, had a condescending look on her face as if the entire exercise bored her and Biara mentally noted that she would be one of the apprentices to watch out for as her attitude was already poor and her high opinion of herself didn't even remotely match her talents with the magical arts.

After the apprentices had ceased their shuffling and gawking, Biara smiled at them and gestured at the prismatic crystal beside her, "Welcome! The three of you have been recommended by the Senior Apprentice and by my own judgement as candidates for advanced studies. Only one of you will be selected for this role to begin with, although each of you show potential. Before I can make such a selection however, I must test you to further determine your qualifications. We will begin with a simple exercise involving the use of arcane magics flowing through a solid structure and I will judge how well you can absorb and direct this external energy."

Biara gestured towards the crystal again, making sure each of them was watching before she turned towards it, speaking over her shoulder, "I will demonstrate how this process works by tapping into the crystal's energy first. Watch closely and observe, for the test will be more subtle than you may at first believe it to be."

Biara reached out, magic building on her fingertips as she began to move her hand towards the crystal. She came within inches of touching it when a hand suddenly grabbed her wrist, Rayleth's voice barking out a warning, "Magistrix! Wait!"

Biara's mouth hung open in surprise, her gaze affixed on Rayleth's hand holding her wrist. She had expected, or at least hoped, that one of the three apprentices would recognize that there was a problem, but the boldness of the apprentice once again left quite the impression on Biara.

She turned to look at him, nodding, "Hold off a moment on saying anything."

Rayleth nodded and released Biara's wrist as the Magistrix turned towards the other two apprentices. Her voice took on a lecturing tone as she looked at each of them, "Apprentice Rayleth believes I should halt this experiment for some reason. Can anyone tell me why he has taken the rather audacious step of interrupting me?"

The two blonde haired Sin'dorei peered at the crystal for several moments before glancing at each other and shrugging. Biara sighed and then turned towards Rayleth, "Please, Apprentice, explain to me why you interrupted my spellcasting."

Rayleth dipped his head as he was acknowledged and spoke quickly, "Magistrix, the warding circles at the base of this crystal are missing two half-circle containment symbols. Activating the crystal would have sent torrents of powerful arcane magics towards we apprentices. I suspect this would have caused instant death at worst, or possible mutations such as are experienced by the Wretched at best."

Biara smiled and nodded, pleased with her apprentice, "Very well done, Apprentice Rayleth." She turned towards the other two, her voice stern now, "You two have failed the very first test, and therefore will not be selected at this time for advanced training. Remember what you saw here today, and recall that attention to detail is key when using magic. The slightest error can result in extreme danger. Be glad that Apprentice Rayleth was here to prevent you both from being badly injured during the testing. You are dismissed."

The two blonde elves blinked for a moment, mouths hanging opened. When they didn't move fast enough, Biara gestured with her manicured nails, shooing them out of the tower's top. She waited until they were gone before turning and smiling brightly at Rayleth, "I'm very impressed with your progress in your studies. Honestly that test was hardly fair and your ability to spot the intentional flaws in the wards was amazing."

Rayleth smiled at the praise, but then frowned, his voice low, "Would you have really burned us all to ash if I had failed?"

"Of course not," Biara replied, "But those two will think that I would have. They will fear that failure could result in death, which is a lesson they should take to heart. Mistakes happen, but mistakes with magic can destroy you outright or injure those you care about. Besides, I'm the monster of a Magistrix that chews up apprentices left and right...it's not like my reputation has taken any serious damage here."

Rayleth took this in for a moment, a smile making its way across his face. He pushed his glasses back up on his nose and spoke more softly, "You said something about advanced studies?"

Biara nodded and then spoke a word of magic, draining the pulsing crystal of its power. When all of the arcane energies had faded she strode across the tower's top, gesturing for Rayleth to follow. Nearby, the hard wooden floor was covered with thick furs; the most luxury available in the frozen hellhole that was Frostfire. Biara walked over to one of the thickest furs, slowly easing herself down to lay on the soft surface, her head propped up on one hand as she lay on her side.

She gestured for Rayleth to sit nearby, and secretly smiled as she saw his eyes briefly glance over the form of her hips as she lay on the floor, her dress doing little to hide her shape. She banished the thought for a moment, studying the dark-haired apprentice as he sat down cross-legged on a nearby fur rug, facing her.

"Rayleth, tell me more about your goals, what you want out of life," Biara said softly, watching him intently.

"Magistr-" Rayleth began. He was interrupted when Biara pointed at him with her free hand and shook her finger. He grinned and shook his head, "Sorry, I mean Biara. Honestly? I would like to become a Magister much like you. There is so much we can learn, so much we can accomplish with our powers for the betterment of Quel'Thalas. I'm envious that I cannot already contribute as you do."

Biara nodded at this, pleased with the answer. She toyed with a few strands of her red hair, thinking about what he had said, "You already have the power to make Quel'Thalas better, every Sin'dorei does. Your next steps will be hard, and possibly dangerous. Mastering magic is no small feat, and what you do with it will be weighed and measured by all. Are you prepared for that burden? Understand that I ask you all of this because I see potential in you above all of the others. You have impressed me."

Rayleth's voice had passion in it when he responded, "Biara...I've told you before, I will not let danger deter me from doing what needs to be done. My parents are not wealthy, they are not powerful adventurers or magic users who can reshape the land. They are gardeners and farmers; simple folk who just wish to live in peace. When I found out I had the gift, I knew I had to use it to help people like them, regardless of the danger to myself or the cost. With magic we can repair much of the damage done to Quel'Thalas. We can built amazing things, amazing artifacts. We could do so much."

Biara smiled at this, her voice wistful, "Magic is our lifeblood and is the most valuable tool we had. If only I had the knowledge, why, I would-"

"Create a barrier to protect our lands from the outside world?" Rayleth cut in. "Because that is what I would do. If I had the spells for it, I would seal all of Quel'Thalas off with powerful magics and keep our people safe forever. I know that it's not possible though, so I will do what I can to make a difference. I would follow in the footsteps of great Magisters like you."

Biara's eyes were wide as she gazed at Rayleth and she was silent for a moment. He had completed her sentence! Spoken the very words she herself had said a thousand times. To say she was thrilled was an understatement. When she spoke again, her voice was soft, "Rayleth, you have spoken the very depths of my heart with your words. Long have I believed in what you've said, and I have spent every waking minute of my life dedicated to trying to make the world safer for our people by whatever means I could, using whatever magic I could. Understand the cost though; sometimes you will be the monster in order to be the savior. Not all will agree with what you wish to do, or the methods that you choose to do it."

"I don't care, Biara. I will continue my studies, and I will do what must be done. If there are those who stand against progress, then they are simply wrong and should be discounted," Rayleth said with some fire in his voice.

Biara shifted, sitting up and studying him again in silence, a smile on her face, "I believe you Rayleth, and I want to help you achieve those goals. You are one of the most promising apprentices I've ever had, and one of the most fearless. You will become greater than any of the others if you continue to dedicate yourself. If you are willing to take my hand in this, know that I will support you and help you in whatever way I can. Essentially, I am offering to teach you personally, if you would welcome that."

Rayleth blinked, looking surprised, "That...is an extremely generous offer. I know how busy you are, and how difficult your work is."

Biara waved a hand at him, dismissing the concerns, "This will be harder for you than for me. There are some disadvantages to my offer, and I will make sure they are clear to you before you accept."

"As you wish, Biara. But I suspect I will not wish to decline your offer," Rayleth said with a smile.

"Well, the first and most difficult thing is that you will have to spend far more time with me in the near future," Biara replied. "As my research assistant, you will need to travel with me regularly to many different locations, from my estate to potentially dangerous locales."

As Biara spoke, Rayleth began to make faces of pretend-horror, shaking in mock-fear at the thought of being close to Biara so much. She grinned at him, playfully kicking his knee with the tip of her shoe, "I see that will not deter you, which is good! I suspect you may grow tired of me after a time, but we will see."

"I highly doubt that, Biara," Rayleth said. "I've enjoyed every moment we've spent together so far, and quite the opposite of what I was told to expect when I came here, this is the only place I'd like to be right now."

Biara blushed slightly, looking away from him for a moment before steadying herself and continuing, "Very well then. The second thing is that you will need to meet my sister, Kyliska. If you will have access to our estate, she needs to get to know you so that you can come and go as needed to obtain experiments or supplies from our stores in Sunfire Estate."

Rayleth nodded, smiling at her, "I would be delighted to meet Lady Kyliska. I have heard she is a dangerous and powerful Blood Knight and it would be an honor."

Biara tilted her head, one eyebrow perched, "What have you really heard about her?"

Rayleth grinned, "Well, that she drinks the blood of her enemies with her breakfast each morning, that she is incapable of going anywhere without the largest collection of weapons possible, that she can drink a dwarf under the table, and that she is more likely to break my face than shake my hand. Rumors do manage to get around the Magistrate."

Biara laughed, nodding, "And you're still willing to meet her, despite all of that?"

"Biara, if it means I have the chance to learn from you, to study with you, and quite frankly to spend more time with you, then I would be willing to meet Deathwing reborn in person and have tea with him. Your sister will not be an issue that would make me decline such a generous offer," Rayleth said softly.

Biara's smile was as bright as the sun at this, and the faint blush remained on her face as she stared at him, "Very well then, it is settled. You already know the dangers of magic itself, and what delving deeper into such secrets might mean, so I will not waste your time with warning you of that. This is your last chance to decline; once you make this decision, I will consider you my research assistant and will not hide this fact. You will put yourself in possibly greater danger, both politically and personally from the magic we are exposed to. If you are willing though, it would please me very much to have you take up such a role."

Rayleth grinned, nodding his head, "It would please me very much as well. I gladly accept your offer."

With that, Biara rose from her place on the fur rug, watching as Rayleth rose and stood before her, "Very well then, Research Assistant Rayleth! Be prepared to travel within a few days; we will be returning to Sunfire Estate and introducing you to my sister. You are about to learn much more about magic, about House Sunfire, and about me."

Rayleth smiled at her, staring into her eyes, "I will be ready, Biara. And I'm thrilled to have this chance, especially to learn more about you."

Impulsively, Rayleth suddenly offered Biara a formal bow that would befit a Lord or Magister of high station. He reached out, taking her hand in his and kissing it before releasing her and straightening up. The gesture was one that reminded Biara of the noble balls and galas that she once attended more frequently, and the blush that rushed to her face went all the way to her long eartips this time.

As Rayleth turned to go, she stared after him, her heart racing a bit as she thought about what had just passed between them, a smile playing across her lips. She prayed to the Light that her sister liked him, because Biara knew in that moment that she definitely was going to need to spend a lot more time with him.