A Costly Decision

A floorboard creaked. The sound was a nothing, a whisper in the reading room and almost lost amongst the crackle and popping of the flames in the hearth. Circular in shape, the chamber boasted two floors of carefully organized bookshelves with scrolls and documents weighing down each shelf. The center of the room was vaulted, with a railed balcony on the second floor overlooking the center of the room where a number of chairs and divans were arranged to allow those reading the works of the library the ability to do so before the warmth of the fire.

Standing near the stone hearth, Alleriel Sunhaven's long ears twitched once as the sound came to her. Barefoot and wearing loose-fitting robes after her evening martial arts practice and bath, she had just selected a tome to read to put her mind at ease before she slept. She paused, the book half-opened in her hands as her eyes slipped closed. Something around her, something within the room felt wrong and out of place all of a sudden, the sound having alerted her in some subconscious way. She delved deep within herself, finding her center and hunting for the source of imbalance in her Chi.

The moment came and passed, and with it a sense of impending fate. As if the entire thing had been orchestrated, Alleriel whirled, the book folding closed in her hands and coming up before her, her sea-green eyes opening as her Chi came into balance within her once more. Through the air a throwing knife tumbled end over end, the deadly weapon glinting in the firelight as it crossed the distance to what would have been her back in an instant. The razor sharp point penetrated the book's cover, sticking in the pages and quivering there.

Alleriel's mind raced, her body already in motion as the assassin on the upper balcony jumped down, drawing a blade and dagger and advancing on her. As she moved, a second projectile eclipsed the spot she'd been standing as a second attacker failed to strike his mark. In her quick assessment of the situation, Alleriel instantly recognized that she was not being attacked by Sin'dorei, but by orcs dressed in black leather armor with black cloth masks covering half their faces.

Out of time to consider the situation further, the first of the orcs reached her, his blade stabbing out at her with a lightning fast jab. Utterly focused now, Alleriel's hand came up at precisely the right moment to slap the flat of the blade, driving the weapon wide even as she whirled to avoid the slash of the dagger. Within the arc of the orc's arm, her hand lashed out again, striking his underarm as her leg came up to strike his groin. The larger assailant tumbled onto his back, his sword flying from his hands as Alleriel continued to move.

Behind her the second assassin slashed at her, narrowly missing the lithe elf as she darted towards a divan, her bare feet easily allowing her to jump onto the high back of the furniture before she neatly dove down and rolled across the floor. Feathers flew into the air as the second orc's blade bit into the furniture, the second strike missing Alleriel by mere inches.

As the blonde elf ended her roll, a third orc jumped down from the balcony above, slashing downward with two of his blades. Still in a half-crouch, Alleriel swept one of her legs out instead of rising, the two swords whisking over her head as her assault knocked the legs out from under the orc. He fell with a grunt, and Alleriel gave him a quick blow to the neck as she rose and darted forward, knowing it would do nothing more than stun him for a moment. Behind her the assassin that had been chasing her struck again, his strike held up by the fact that his companion on the floor was attempting to rise, gasping for air.

Having bought herself a moment's reprieve, Alleriel rolled again, coming up near a bookshelf. She snatched several tomes from the collection, whirling and hurling them as projectiles as the two orcs both advanced on her. They slashed at the books with their swords, one taking the bound edge of a thesaurus to the face. Pages fluttered around them and they began to look enraged as they stalked her. Realizing she would have to face them both, Alleriel dropped into a fighting stance, taking a deep breath and preparing herself for the battle to come.

Unfortunately, the three orc assailants were not the only attackers. Even as she prepared herself, there was a *click* and a crossbow bolt flew across the open space of the room. Having only a moment's notice, Alleriel was not able to deflect the bolt with a belated swing of her open palm, and the bolt passed through the flowing sleeve of her robes, narrowly missing her arm directly and leaving a bloody welt on her flesh as it exited the other side.

Her eyes darted to the balcony above where a dark-haired Sin'dorei held a crossbow in his hands, sighting down the length. The weapon was of special design, shooting small projectiles but having a loading mechanism to allow it to fire up to five of the missiles before needing to be reloaded. Alleriel's face took on a look of surprise and she darted to one side, somersaulting away as another bolt passed through the space she'd been standing. She fell to her knees, sliding in her robes across the wooden floor and slowing to a stop behind one of the feather-stuffed reading chairs. Even as she stopped, a bolt struck the chair and feathers exploded from it.

With the two orcs beginning to pursue her around the edge of the furniture, the sniper on the balcony above, and the third orc stirring where he lay on the floor in the middle of the room, Alleriel came to the understanding that her fate might be upon her. She took in another deep breath, steadying herself and bringing her Chi in alignment within her. She jumped up, quickly dodging away from the orcs pursuing her, her hand extended towards the balcony above.

She could feel the space between her and the assassin. Could feel his finger as it caressed the trigger. She could see the motes of dust that danced in the air between them, sense the deadly potential that hung within that impossibly small space. Into that void she thrust her Chi, her entire focus on that moment.

Green crackling lightning burst from her open palm, crossing the distance between her and the assassin before he could squeeze the trigger. It slammed into the balcony railing before arcing up and over, and the Sin'dorei cried out and hurled himself backward. His weapon fired, the bolt traveling towards Alleriel but thrown off course now, missing her by a few feet and clattering against the stones of the hearth behind her.

Deep within the interior of Sunhaven Estate, shouts arose as the House Guards heard the thunderous retort of the lightning within the enclosed space of the reading room. Footsteps began to pound down nearby hallways as the defenses of the House began to gather to repel whatever attack was occurring. Within the room, the Sin'dorei on the balcony growled through the mask that covered his face, lightly leaping over the railing and turning towards the door.

Behind him, Alleriel skidded to a halt, twirling on her bare feet and bringing a leg up before leaping to the side. Her foot connected with the head of one of the orcs, the blow to the temple knocking him unconscious and causing him to stumble sideways into his companion as he slid towards the floor. The second orc's attack was thrown off as his companion jostled him, and Alleriel was able to slap his clumsy assault to the side. She stepped towards him, lightning fast strikes hitting him in the groin, the stomach, and throat, and the nose before she jumped back, allowing her two dazed opponents to collapse in a heap.

In the doorway, the Sin'dorei who had been on the balcony paused, his gaze reaching across the room to lock with Alleriel's, irritation at the failure of his assassins clearly written there. He held up a small glass orb, dashing it on the ground and creating a wall of smoke in the doorway, obscuring all sight through the entrance.

Again Alleriel sensed that something was amiss, and she fell to the floor as the smoke cloud expanded. No sooner had she done so than a barrage of throwing stars exited the smoke, hurtling towards where she'd been standing. Several strands of her hair were cut free by near misses, drifting onto the stones around her as the spent projectiles collided with the hearth behind her and the orcs that were attempting to get to their feet.

In the silence that followed, only the sound of Sunhaven guards rushing towards her location could be heard. Of the leader of the assassins, there was not even a whisper to hint he had been within the rapidly clearing smoke cloud. Alleriel jumped to her feet, rushing to the doorway and seeing a window ajar in the corridor beyond. She looked out into the night to see the moon shining down on Sunhaven Estate's grounds. Her keen sight took in the crumpled forms of several of her rangers that had likely been cut down while they patrolled the grounds to allow the assassins access to the structure.

In the corridors behind her, House guards rushed towards her, their voices a cacophony of shouts and cries of dismay. Several hurried into the room behind Alleriel, checking on the two dead orcs and taking the third semi-conscious orc into custody.

Alleriel ignored them all, her gaze locked on the still forms laying in the fields beyond. At the dead Sin'dorei that had fallen defending their home. At those who had died because of her decisions, her leadership. There was a price to pay for every choice one made, for every path one walked. The dead in the fields beyond were the price she paid now for choosing to withdraw from the alliance of four Houses that she had been a part of.

Had they convinced others that she had betrayed the Horde? Would more orcs come, thinking she was disloyal to the Warchief when all she had wanted was to protect the Sin'dorei in her care? Or perhaps one of the other Houses simply found her position inconvenient, and sought to eliminate her so that her replacement would be more compliant. Which House was it? Sunfire, Dawnsea, or Felo'melorn? Who owned the blade of the dark-haired Sin'dorei?

The questions circled endlessly in her mind as her gaze remained locked on the dead. Doubt gnawed at her, a feeling that would hound her relentlessly and was a part and parcel of leading others. Though it would make meditation difficult and keep her awake for many nights to come, she could not be deterred. Too much depended on her keeping House Sunhaven's Sin'dorei safely within Quel'Thalas.

She whispered into the night, her voice steady but having a hint of anger to it that was uncommon for her, “Strike well my foes, strike many times in the hopes that you will stop me. When the time comes that I strike, there will be but one blow and you will fall. No more Sin'dorei will die for this. No more of our kin will be slain at our own hands. This I swear.”

With that she turned, striding away from the window and letting her guards do their jobs. She desperately needed the serenity of meditation in that moment.

Taking Action- A Blood Elf Parable

*Written on a scroll in meticulous, elegant script, the story has a small wax seal embedded with the emblem of a sun cradled between two trees and is signed by Seneschal Leneath Dawnrise of House Sunhaven.*

It came to pass that my lady Alleriel Sunhaven, Scion of our House and protector of the Sin'dorei under her care, was troubled. In recent days she had made the decision to withdraw the soldiers of House Sunhaven from Pandaria, fearful of the loss of precious elven lives in that distant land for a cause that had become clouded. Not knowing if she had made the correct decision, she spent a day and night meditating on the issue before emerging from the hall that contained House Sunhaven's reflecting pools, at which point she said that she wished to journey to the Tian Monastery to seek guidance.

It was decided that I would journey beside her to discuss the matter. All of those in our care were safely in Quel'Thalas now, and the trip would be swift one would hope. With this in mind, we packed only minimal supplies in the saddles of our hawkstriders and set out for Silvermoon with some haste. With no magi of our own to open arcane portals, we sought one out within the capital to speed us along our way. This first leg of our journey was taken in silence, each of us reflecting on current events.

Within the city it was an easy matter to find a Magistrix that would open such a portal for us. Not only did the helpful Sin'dorei indicate that she would assist us, she stated that she could open a portal directly to the monastery, which would save us much time. Lady Sunhaven gratefully agreed, and eagerly stepped through the portal intent on finding the guidance she sought. I followed her, and at the last moment before I entered the portal I looked back to the Magistrix. In that moment, I noted with some curiosity that her eyes glowed not with the green of the Sin'dorei, or even the blue of the Quel'dorei we once were, but bright white. She winked somewhat playfully at me, and then the portal took me and I saw her no more.

After a moment of disorientation my eyes opened to see not the Tian Monastery as expected, but instead a towering mountain rising into the distance with the structure we sought only a distant point barely seen at the top. My mouth must surely have hung agape at this moment, for Alleriel turned, a whimsical smile on her face as she nodded towards the mountain and said, “It seems we are to be tested before we can proceed. Let us show ourselves to be worthy.”

It amused me to hear her speak of what would be an arduous trip up the sheer, winding path to the monastery as a simple test, but I nodded and took up my reins, following in her path. It was likely we would need to proceed on foot for at least part of the journey to rest our mounts given our lack of preparation for such a venture. Nevertheless, my Lady steadfastly moved forward, an example for me to follow.

It was perhaps an hour into our trip up the mountainside when we rounded a corner and brought our mounts to a halt, looking at one another and then taking in the scene. Ahead a small portion of the sheer cliffs had broken free, rubble falling on the path and partially blocking it. Before the rubble sat a number of Pandaren pilgrims, a cart pulled to the side of the path and a low murmur coming from them. They glanced up at us, shaking their heads.

“You cannot go any further, it is no use,” said one. The others nodded in agreement behind him as he gestured at the rubble. “We are going to turn back after we have rested. There is no way through that.”

Alleriel merely studied the scene, quietly taking in the situation before shaking her head and dismounting. I watched with some interest as she approached the pile of rubble and began to study it. She smiled, taking the simple wooden staff she carried from her back and resting the end against one of the boulders. With a heave, she used the staff as leverage, tumbling one of the rocks over the cliff edge beside us, the sound of it cracking in the ravine below echoing back up to us.

“You will never move forward if you give up so easily,” my Lady said softly. “It is in the trying, in the perseverance that you gain the strength to remove obstacles from your path. Come, together we can surely clear enough room to pass, and tell the others in the Monastery above of this trouble.”

And so the Pandaren looked at one another and then nodded, rising and moving towards Alleriel. Together they heaved rock after rock over the edge, the work difficult but possible with proper teamwork. After less than an hour it became clear that my Lady's words were true and the path opened before us once more. The Pandaren cheerfully gathered up their things, following us as we continued on our way.

Another hour passed, this time spent in cheerful company as we ascended the mountain path, the Monastery closer above us now, although still some distance away. The path ahead had begun to twist and turn as it rose with the terrain, making it impossible to see more than forty or fifty yards ahead with the winding bends in it. As we rounded one such bend, we were brought up short by a Hozen that jumped onto the trail.

“Wickets go 'way! Go 'way!” the creature bellowed. It was a sight to behold, his body much larger than many of his kind, a giant spear grasped in one hand. As he yelled, he jumped up and down, his empty fist pounding on the ground with a loud thumping noise and setting the Pandaren with us to quailing and quaking with fear.

Several of the Pandaren with us had been carrying spears or staves as they traveled, and they grimly brandished these weapons, advancing on the yelling creature, intent on doing battle with it before it could harm the unarmed and innocent amongst the pilgrims. I winced, realizing that there would be bloodshed on the narrow trail. I must admit my nerves made me shake and the bile in the back of my throat rose to think I would have to witness such slaughter.

Before the first of the Pandaren could reach the Hozen, he was brought up short with a light touch on his shoulder. My Lady Alleriel had dismounted, quickly moving towards the front of the group. She placed herself between Hozen and Pandaren, bringing a hand up to halt them.

“Wait,” she said. “You act with haste and do not take a moment to let wisdom guide your actions. Wait and listen and perhaps you will see that all is not as it appears.”

And so it was. With the Pandaren halted, looking at one another in curiosity, the Hozen calmed himself somewhat, looking over his shoulder. From beyond the next bend came a sound that my Lady's ears had heard underneath the yelling; the sound of battle ahead. The Pandaren nodded, understanding finally that what had at first seemed to be an enemy was, in fact, a friend who was warning them of danger. Alerted now and guided by Alleriel, I watched as the group proceeded with caution, weapons at the ready as they passed around the bend. Following, the scene that unfolded before me made it clear what was happening. A small group of Saurok had assaulted a group of Hozen passing up the trail, threatening to overwhelm the forest dwelling creatures. With battle-cries the Pandaren charged into the fray, my Lady joining them quietly and using her training to help defend the Hozen. It took only a moment for the Saurok to recognize that they would be defeated, and they withdrew in haste, their nimble bodies scurrying over the edge of a cliff and onto a narrow ledge leading downwards that I would not have cared to tread upon myself.

With the threat gone, we took some time to tend to the Hozen who had been injured in the fray, and they gratefully joined us in our journey towards the Monastery. Our group had grown in size, and it amused me to think that what started as a simple journey for guidance had turned into a pilgrimage of so many varying peoples. This thought stayed with me, even as my Lady silently guided us ever onwards.

It was mid-afternoon when we encountered the final obstacle in our path. Rounding a bend and seeing the Monastery looming above us, we came upon a horrifying scene. Standing in the path was a Mogu warrior, his massive body taking up much of the space where one would walk. In his hand he carried a giant halberd, the weapon many feet longer than any that a Sin'dorei might carry and a glinting ax-blade at the end. Behind him, many Pandaren sat on the ground in misery, their hands bound behind them and a general feeling of fear radiating from them.

“More supplicants to serve!” the Mogu's voice bellowed out at us. He waved his weapon too and fro before him, and many in our party stepped back in terror. Never before had I seen such a massive creature, never before had I experienced such terror. How could one fight such a beast on the narrow path? Surely he would conquer us and we would become more prisoners! I am sure such thoughts went through the minds of the others amongst us as well.

There was one who did not quail at the sight of him however; my Lady Alleriel stepped forward, standing between the others and the beast of a Mogu. Calm and composed, she took in a deep breath to steady herself, falling into a combat pose. It was a brave act, and I record it now so that none may doubt that she is willing to put herself at risk for others. The creature laughed when he saw her, towering over her and yelling down at her, “Foolish weakling. You do not have the strength to defeat me! I will make an example of you so that the other slaves do not think to rebel!”

To her credit, my Lady said nothing, simply moving towards him silently. His weapon came down, and I will admit that I closed my eyes, already mourning her passing. And yet, the weapon struck nothing, the blade burying itself in the soil of the trail as she dodged it. Behind me a ragged cheer went up as the Pandaren saw their champion unharmed, the sound followed by a gasp as the Mogu dragged his weapon from the soil and brought it down again.

Again it missed. And again. And so it went on for some time, the creature attempting to shatter Alleriel's body with that cruel blade, and my Lady dodging the blows, nimbly moving from spot to spot or reaching out to slap the flat of the ax-head away and directing the weapon away from herself. I will always be amazed at her speed and determination as she fought, never coming close enough to be struck. After some time, the blade began to rise and fall more slowly, the blows more clumsy as the creature tired itself out. The trail was pitted with divots now from where he had attempted to strike and failed. Finally, the blade slammed home in the soil and despite his tugging, would not come free. Exhausted, he slumped on the weapon's handle, and my Lady walked up to him, a quick kick sending the worn out creature to the ground on his back.

We all looked on in awe, not believing she had defeated him without striking a blow. She smiled at us, nodding at the fallen creature and speaking softly, “Strength of arms is a virtue, but alone it does not win the battle. It is strength of heart and fortitude of mind that sees a battle through to its conclusion. The creature can never defeat you if you fight justly and with the heart needed to attain victory. Never believe you are beaten before the battle begins, or you truly shall be.”

With that she walked over to the captives, freeing the Pandaren. The rest of us followed her, looking at the fallen creature with distaste as we passed it. Once the captives were freed, we all continued up the trail, the Monastery's steps beckoning to us invitingly.

Upon those steps several Pandaren awaited the approaching group, their garb showing them to be monks who lived and trained there. As a group we paused some distance away from them, my Lady walking ahead to stand before them. She bowed low, a smile on her face and a greeting on her lips, “High Elder Cloudfall, it is an honor to visit with you once more. I believe I have passed the tests placed upon the trail, and hope you will give me your wisdom and guidance.”

Even from the distance at which I stood, the confusion on the Pandaren's face was evident. He shook his head, his voice curious, “Tests? We have placed no tests on the trail. Nor were we aware that such a throng of travelers was heading here. I welcome you all, and hope your journey has not been to difficult.”

Alleriel looked up, her eyes wide for a moment as she turned back towards us in confusion, “N-no tests? But then, why did we pass through such trials? I believed wrongly that all of this was designed to see what we would do when...”

Her voice trailed off and a smile crossed her face. It was hard to hear her, but I record her words here as I believe they were important. She spoke softly to herself, her voice serene, “I see it so clearly now. Had we not set out on this journey, I would not have encountered these difficulties. Had I not acted, then ills would have befallen others on their travels. While it is difficult to decide what the right course is, it is the actual doing, the fact that we have acted that has mended these ills. Whether or not I have made the right decision, I have acted. I have not let myself be dissuaded by the difficult path ahead. I have not acted with haste but with informed consideration of the matter. I have not allowed the apparent strength that our allies display to be the only guiding factor, but instead looked to the heart of the matter.”

She smiled at the Pandaren monks, bowing to them and then turning to me, looking more relaxed than she had in days. With a nod, she started back down the trail, even as the pilgrims passed by her and headed into the Monastery. She lightly touched my arm, guiding me back towards our hawkstriders, “I have found the answers I seek. They were within me all along. I had but to listen hard enough to understand them.”

It seems that answers can be found in many places and ways. I hope that the story of Lady Alleriel Sunhaven's journey will help others find their own.

Penned by my hand and will,

Seneschal Leneath Dawnrise

House Sunhaven

Parting Ways

The hawkstriders raced through Eversong, leaving the more populated areas near Silvermoon far behind. Fifteen in number, their feathers flashed brightly amongst the natural colors of the enchanted forest around them. At the head of the procession rode the Magistrix Biara Sunfire, her fire red hair flowing behind her as she urged her mount to greater speeds, glowing blue ward marks glittering on her right cheek as she hurried. Behind her, her retinue attempted to keep up, the highly trained guards of House Sunfire determined to match the boldness of their Scion.

With the speed at which they traveled, it was not long before the group found itself entering a clearing deep in the heart of Eversong, nearer to one of the gentle shorelines that graced Quel'Thalas. Nestled in the clearing was a large estate, a low gold-painted wall made of stone surrounding the structure. Biara pulled back on the reins of her hawkstrider, slowing herself and the rest of the procession down as she studied the structure.

There was little to remark about the building itself. Typical of a noble house, it displayed a bit of wealth in its design and exterior decor that the Magistrix would have expected. The low wall was broken by an arched gateway with a crest centered above it. The emblem that hung there was a golden sun cradled by the branches of two golden trees on a field of red; the emblem of House Sunhaven. Other than this display of ownership, there were no other markings visible, and in fact there was no sign of the typical magical wards, lanterns or floating gardens that other Sin'dorei buildings would have. Biara narrowed her eyes as she noted this, snapping her reins and passing beneath the gates.

Within the courtyard there was activity. Sin'dorei trained with weapons in a small practice yard off to one side, while guards that looked suspiciously like Spellbreakers stood motionless before the twin doors that lead into the estate. Biara also noted that rangers with bows patrolled along some portions of the wall, presumably to make up for the lack of any visible mages or other spellcasters amongst the defenders. Even as the Magistrix absorbed all of this, the twin doors opened and a male Sin'dorei in blue and gold robes passed through them, a smile on his face and his hand raised in greeting. He approached the group, pausing and bowing before Biara.

“Magistrix Sunfire, it is indeed a pleasure to see you on this fine day. To what do we owe the honor of this-” he began. He was cut off before he could finish.

“You will take me to the Lady Sunhaven at once,” Biara stated coldly, her fel green eyes boring into the seneschal.

The other elf bowed again, the smile remaining plastered on his face, “Of course Magistrix! I shall take you to her at once. Your men will need to surrender their weapons to the guards before you proceed.”

Behind Biara, her retinue began to grumble. She held up a perfectly manicured hand, silencing further muttering, “I will proceed alone. You cannot disarm me of my magic anyway and should something befall me, my men will make war upon this manor house and my sister will avenge me.”

“Magistrix Sunfire, I am sure I've no idea what you are referring to. Please, if you will, Lady Sunhaven is right this way,” the elf replied. Biara could swear he was smirking now. She quickly dismounted, her blood red and gold robes falling into place around her as she moved gracefully behind him, her heels pounding on the marble floors as they entered the structure.

They passed through a number of corridors, the interior of the building decorated as one might expect of a Sin'dorei noble house. Expensive tapestries and paintings dotted the walls, statues in alcoves here and there as they walked. Throughout the house was the sound of some instrument being played, possibly a violin although Biara was not entirely certain. It did little to soothe her ire as the seneschal brought her to a narrow doorway at the end of a long corridor and pushed the barrier aside. He bowed, gesturing into the room. “The Lady Sunhaven is within, Magistrix.”

Biara ignored the elf, brushing past him as if he didn't matter, stepping into the room as he closed the door behind her quietly. The room beyond the door was a large circular chamber with windows all around; likely the base of one of the estate's elegant towers. Within the center of the room was a large reflecting pool, a pile of smooth, polished stones in the center allowing water to flow gently down an incline, sending ripples through the water. Along edges of the pool and surrounding the room was an array of flowering plants and greenery that immediately set one at ease. A narrow pathway of stepping stones lead to a flat marble surface before the flowing display of water in the center of the pool, and above the stone a figure hovered in mid-air.

She sat cross-legged, her hands resting on her knees and her fingers pointed upward. Long golden hair flowed down her back, the color much brighter than the blue, brown and gold dress she wore. Hovering as she was a few feet off the ground, Biara could clearly see that the other elf was barefoot and catch a glimpse of the sea-green color of her nails; colors that were not traditional amongst the populace of Silvermoon. The Magistrix's mind immediately tensed, the hovering elf looking nothing less than a Quel'dorei in that garb.

“Lady Sunhaven,” Biara intoned, her voice filled with restrained malice.

The other elf did not respond for a moment, simply floating there, meditating before the flowing water. After a moment, her musical voice came out in a soft, low tone, “Lady Sunfire. Your visit is not unexpected. In fact, I assumed you would have come two days prior to this. You must be very busy in the city, and I apologize that I must consume more of your time.”

Biara sneered at the back of the hovering elf, her words tinged with anger, “Yes, well I generally must set time aside to deal with potentially dangerous political upheaval that could spell disaster for my House. As you well knew when you sent me this farce of a letter.”

With that she reached into a pouch, taking out a folded piece of parchment bearing the emblem of House Sunhaven and tossing it onto the ground. She folded her arms across her chest, staring at the other elf, “I am awaiting an explanation.”

Alleriel Sunhaven murmured to herself, completing her meditation exercises and gently floating to the ground. Her sea-green eyes opened, and she rose on her bare feet, turning to face her counterpart. She gave Biara a pleasant smile, looking her over before responding, “I do not believe much explanation is required Lady Sunfire. The letter plainly states my intentions. House Sunhaven is withdrawing its support from your alliance of Houses. My men will no longer heed orders from the Blackhearts command structure, and I am withdrawing all of my companies back to Quel'Thalas.”

Biara's face blazed with fury and she barked her words out, the sound echoing from the peaceful chamber, “I was unaware that House Sunhaven was full of traitors who would stand against Quel'Thalas.”

Alleriel shook her head, her expression still calm and her voice neutral, “And I was unaware that House Sunfire was lead by an orc.”

Biara's eyes popped wide open and she stabbed a finger towards the other elf, “How DARE you? What are you implying?!”

“It is simple Lady Sunfire,” Alleriel said, still calm and serene. “Your campaign in Pandaria, in fact the entire objective that you have given our alliance of Houses, does nothing but drain the resources of Quel'Thalas and put our people at risk. In fact, more Sin'dorei have been lost due to the plotting of our 'Warchief' than I care to consider. As a result, it is only prudent that I withdraw House Sunhaven's support of this campaign until such a time as the Warchief looks at our people with the respect we deserve and handles our companies with competence when planning his war.”

“I could have you executed for what you just said,” Biara responded sternly. “We are members of the Horde. The Sin'dorei support the Horde. I do what I must for our people.”

Alleriel shook her head, looking at Biara with some degree of sadness, “Lady Sunfire, I must respectfully disagree. The battles at the Isle of Thunder as well as Garrosh's use of our magic for most foul purposes shows that he cares nothing about the fate of the Sin'dorei. Are we so numerous that we can continue to slaughter our own people over a political divide? Will we allow the orcs, creatures that have once before burned our precious forests, dictate the fate of our race? I fear you are blinded by your hatred of the Alliance and by the feeling of power that war brings you. The Quel'dorei are our people, even if they have made choices that we cannot accept politically. Each one we slay, each one of our own we lose to their arrows, brings our entire race closer to the brink of extinction.”

Biara stormed towards the other woman, her face inches from Alleriel's, “You betray all of Quel'Thalas with your words. What will you do, flee to Dalaran? Do you think your green eyes will see you welcomed there?”

Alleriel did not move or show any sign of concern as the other Sin'dorei raged at her. Her tone became more stern as she replied, “I am loyal to Quel'Thalas first and above all else. My men will continue to perform the duties they have performed for thousands of years; the protection of our lands and people. If you believe I will stay my hand when it comes to the Alliance, you are mistaken. I simply refuse to put our soldiers in a position where they can be used as fodder for the orcs, who have shown precious little respect for their own allies. You will need to come to terms with this I fear.”

Biara looked as if she were about to slap the other elf. For a moment she trembled with rage, glaring at Alleriel, “You are fortunate that I cannot bring the bulk of my men here to raze this estate to the ground. Due to your withdrawal from our alliance, I am forced to send even more of my soldiers to Pandaria. Pray that when this campaign is over my temper has cooled in relation to your defiance of the Warchief's will.”

With that she turned, beginning to storm towards the door. She paused as Alleriel's words came to her from over her shoulder. “Lady Sunfire, the reason why you will not come and raze this estate to the ground is precisely because of the threat you just made. In your reign over House Dayfire and later House Sunfire, you have engaged in brutal and senseless slaughter that has resulted not only in the loss of hundreds of Sin'dorei lives, but the utter destruction of the spire that was built by your House in antiquity. The reason why your threat is empty and meaningless is because, unlike you, I put the lives of the Sin'dorei in my care as my first priority. Meaning I have hundreds and hundreds of trained fighters, many dozens to each of your own.”

Biara turned, her eyes wide. Behind her Alleriel remained where she'd been standing, her words contrasting harshly with the serene room around her and the calm look on her face. There was a look of experienced wisdom in the Lady Sunhaven's eyes that spoke volumes about her capabilities and her tolerance for threats against the Sin'dorei of her House. Biara's mouth opened and closed once or twice, at a loss for words.

“Lady Sunfire, I see that you are about to depart,” Alleriel said. “Do know that although I have withdrawn my support for your little personal war, I am still a Sin'dorei, and still support Quel'Thalas. Should you or yours need aid of any sort; food, medical supplies, healing, or the like, please write or call upon me. I will not see a Sin'dorei suffer needlessly, even those under your care. I am not your enemy, but neither am I your friend.”

Biara simply glared, spitting out her words, “You will suffer for your lack of conviction one day Lady Sunhaven. Good day to you.”

She turned, her robes whirling around her as she stormed out. Alleriel's final words drifted over her as she hurried down the corridors, intent on getting Sunhaven Manor far from her sight. “A true leader knows that to lead is to suffer for one's people Lady Sunfire. Every day until the day I am able to lay down this burden I will worry over those in my care. Perhaps you should do the same. May your path be green and golden.”

With Biara gone, Alleriel turned back towards her reflecting pool, the urge to meditate again strong within her. It was best to banish fears and anger to keep oneself balanced after all. As she sat in her meditation pose once more, she murmured to herself in wry amusement, “That went precisely as well as I expected it to go.”

With a smile, she closed her eyes, slowly beginning to hover once more, silence descending on the chamber.

Touch of the Sha

Alleriel moved fitfully in her sleep, her face slipping into a frown as she tossed and turned in her bedroll. She lay on the open ground of the Krasarang Wilds, the beautiful stars of Pandaria glimmering over her head. The day had been spent making contact with the locals and learning more of their culture. It had been filled with many long treks across the beautiful landscape, and Alleriel had been glad to finally find a place to rest.

As she slipped into a deeper, troubled slumber, the Sha began its attack on her powerfully focused mind. She dreamed, and in her dream, she remembered a time several years past...

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

The corridor was long and dark, with only a few magical lanterns to light the way now. Once it had been bathed in illumination, the bright lights showing off the beautiful tapestries lining the walls and the plush furnishings that had been placed in alcoves along the way.

Now though, the estate had fallen on hard times. With the fall of the Sunwell, the Quel'dorei had suffered terribly, both in lives lost and in the loss of the magic that sustained them all. Although Alleriel knew the hallway in which she found herself, it was hard to believe that only a few months before it had been a proud representation of House Dawnflame's power.

Built in an area of Silvermoon City that had more open spaces, the manor house was connected directly with the great wall that had encircled the city. During the Scourge invasion, it had been a near thing that Alleriel's betrothed, Lenius, had been able to lead his servants and people to the ships that House Sunhaven had prepared to flee the hordes of undead. Thanks to the quick thinking of all involved, many lives had been spared that otherwise would have been lost.

By the looks of things now though, the lives that had been saved had only been consigned to a slow death rather than the swift destruction that the Scourge had promised. Over the previous months, the members of House Dawnflame had slowly sunken into the grip of the Thirst that all of them keenly felt after the Sunwell's loss. Although Alleriel had done all she could for Lenius's people, there was little she could do other than try and teach them the new ways of the Sin'dorei in the hopes that they would be able to control themselves.

It had been hard, becoming Sin'dorei and following the new methods the Prince had shown them. It had caused a schism, and many Quel'dorei had left Quel'Thalas forever as a result. Alleriel's own parents had been amongst the exiled, and try as she might she still missed them dearly, especially now given what she saw.

She took a few hesitant steps down the hallway, her finely made dress shifting with the movements of her body. The dress, and its wearer, had seen better days. It marked her as a Magistrix, but the weary expression on her face, the loose threads on the garment, and the locks of her golden hair that had escaped their bindings all pointed towards many long, sleepless nights as the new Scion of House Sunhaven tried to cope with the disaster that had befallen her people.

As she began to move, Alleriel saw that the situation in House Dawnflame's estate was worse than she had remembered during her last visit. The alcoves had not been dusted or cleaned in many days, the magical brooms and other arcane devices that would normally handle such tasks having fallen silent and dead. Alleriel grimly continued on down the hallway, trying to put the implications of the missing items out of her mind.

She exited the corridor to find herself striding across a raised platform with a balcony overlooking a grand entrance hall down below. What would normally have been glowing chandeliers now hung dull and almost light-less, their magic drained and never renewed. Alleriel also tried to ignore this ill omen, picking up her pace and passing the top of the grand staircase that would have lead down to the entry hall below. Ahead of her another corridor opened, winding into the darkness of the estate and leading her towards her destination. Somehow, she already knew what she would find, as if she had been here before.

She came up to elegantly carved double doors, their golden handles glinting dully in the darkness of the corridor. On the floor before the closed barrier were several bits of cloth; discarded clothes and what appeared to be a few valuables wrapped in a discarded window-drape. Clearly some of the servants had begun to abandon the structure, or at the very least order had begun to decay.

Alleriel took a deep breath, her hand extending towards the door handles. Her fingers rested on the latch and she gave a wry smile; the manicure she'd had was long since chipped, and it was likely she would never again have the luxury or time to spend on such frivolities. Not when her own servants and retainers needed her. With a sigh, she twisted the handle and pushed the doors open.

As the doors creaked opened, no longer properly maintained, they exposed a darkened room beyond. In happier times, Lenius's bedchambers would have been brilliant with magical light and the light of the sun coming in through the tall stained glass windows at the far end. Now though, the drapes had been closed tightly over the sparkling glass, blocking out the sun's light. The magical lanterns that had once glowed warmly now sparked dully, giving off almost no illumination. With great hesitation now, Alleriel slowly entered the room.

She knew what she'd find there.

Her eyes, newly fel-green from the absorption of 'alternate' magic sources, adjusted slowly to the dim light, until she could finally make out the bed on the far end of the room. As she knew she would, she saw two figures upon its soft surface, Lenius and one of his servant girls. Her heart skipped a beat.

“Lenius..?” her voice was timid, hollow. All of the joy and energy had been drawn from it. She stepped closer, already knowing what she would find. He lay there, his arms around the girl, his lips locked with hers. Under normal circumstances she would have been hurt, upset, angry even. But these were not ordinary circumstances, for she was not viewing a lover's tryst or the severance of Lenius's vows of betrothal, but something far far worse.

The servant girl was dead.

Not just dead, drained. He had been feeding on the magical energy within her. He'd taken so much of her magic that she had perished during the encounter that had never had a romantic objective in the first place. Her nearly naked, lifeless body hung limply in his grasp as his lips continued to suck up every last trace of magic within her. Her eyes were wide with horror in death, and Alleriel knew that she'd had no chance to resist him. Like her, he'd been a powerful magister and knew what he was doing.

As she stepped closer, the rustle of her skirts alerted him to her presence. He slowly released the unfortunate elf, letting her body lay upon the blankets. He looked up, his eyes glowing dully with magical light. “I need more.”

Alleriel took a step back as his hungry, haunted gaze locked with hers. His body was pale and thin, likely from days of deprivation as he slowly gave in to his thirst. Likely he was not the only who had become Wretched as all of House Dawnflame slowly came to an end. It explained where all of the magical lanterns had gone, where all of the magical brooms and other arcane devices had gone. They'd been consumed by the Sin'dorei as they gave in to their base needs, and now that it was gone, they had nothing left to feed on but each other.

She shook her head, knowing that somewhere in the wreckage of the creature that had once been her betrothed his mind still functioned behind a wall of pure thirst for magic. She spoke softly, her voice sad, “Lenius...why? Why couldn't you focus? Why couldn't you retain control?”

He almost hissed at her, moving slowly away from the dead body on his bed, moving to the edge and setting his feet on the floor. “I need more Alleriel. Always more. There is a void in me that can never be filled. I WILL fill it. I will have more!”

Alleriel's heart broke as she heard the words, despair creeping over her. She shook her head, taking a step back. “You are not the elf that I am sworn to. He has passed from this life now. Though I hurt so much that I can barely stand here and say this, I must go Lenius. This...this can't go on any longer.”

She brought her hand up, the ring on her finger glittering brightly. His eyes locked on it, and it broke her heart even further. The ring, given to her by him when they had been betrothed, glittered not with a diamond, but with the purest of mana gems crafted from their magic together. It was a token of their love and shared dedication to the arts and Quel'Thalas. With shaking hands, she slowly pulled it off her finger, holding it up. His eyes locked on it, and she could tell by the expression on his face that the symbol it represented meant nothing now, it was only the magic it contained that mattered.

She dropped it on the floor and turned, fleeing from the sight. Behind her, she heard him lurch forward, not after her, but after the ring that sat glowing on the carpet behind her.

Her hands came down, grasping her skirts so she could run faster. Despair clawed at her heart and mind as she passed through the crumbling remains of House Dawnflame's estate. Something deep within her made her want to just give in to the feeling, to let it encompass all of her being. There was no point in anything now. Her people had suffered, many of them losing their lives and others becoming what Lenius was now, Wretched.

She dashed down the grand staircase of the estate, heading for the doors that lead out as she knew she was supposed to do. She could not shake the feeling that grew and grew within her, her mind slowly sinking into the pure incarnation of despair that the events, the memory brought with it. Her hands reached out, pressing against the doors that lead out of the estate and throwing them wide.

Sunlight flowed into the room, and Alleriel paused, shielding her eyes. Before her, a figure hovered in the air. It was an elf, her legs crossed and her hands resting on her knees, her eyes closed as she serenely hovered in place. With a shock, Alleriel realized she was looking at herself.

This is not how it is supposed to happen. I run out and leave Lenius behind...I sink into despair for days after. What is...

The figure before her opened its eyes, the other-Alleriel looking at her with a soft smile on her face. “Alleriel. Remember your training. Focus. Discipline. Balance the Chi within yourself.”

Alleriel blinked in surprise, shaking her head and trying to think clearly, despair still trying to overwhelm her. Memories came flooding back, of who she was now, of what she was, of what she'd learned in the years since this memory, this DREAM and the true present.

I am asleep. This is not real. This is just the past, and the past does not dictate the future. Focus. Balance. Breathe in and take calm within yourself. Breathe out and let the darkness go. It does not belong, and when it is gone, only Alleriel will remain.

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

The Sha had gotten close, the eerie manifestation of despair almost hovering over the sleeping Sin'dorei as it attempted to invade her mind. But Alleriel Sunhaven was not the broken Magistrix that existed after the fall of the Sunwell. She was not vulnerable in her mind as she would have been before she traveled the world and learned more of herself and who her people were. She was a trained monk now, and her mind was a weapon.

The manifestation reached out to touch Alleriel and she exploded into motion. From an apparent deep sleep her body rocked onto its back. Blue-green eyes sprang open as her legs spun above her, the deadly arc of her feet driving the creature away. She flipped herself up with her hands, landing lightly on her bare feet and falling into a fighting pose, her face a calm mask as she looked at the Sha. It was a smaller one, but still dangerous as the assault on her mind had shown.

The creature lashed out at her, despair falling upon her and sliding off of the edges of her disciplined mind. The spell had no effect on her, for she had purged the despair from her heart many years ago, and forged strength of mind in her training and trials. The memory was now nothing more than a bittersweet note of a time when happiness had fled for a while. The future was so much brighter.

The creature lurched at her, and in a blur of motion she met it halfway, her hands flying out and connecting with the semi-solid edges of its manifested form. She dodged its claws and spells, her reflexes more than capable of protecting her as she systematically began to dismantle the creature with Chi-empowered blows.

In the darkness of the Wilds, a howl briefly flowed out over the land as a piece of despair itself despaired, and then withered away to nothing, destroyed and put to rest physically as it had been in the heart of the monk, leaving Alleriel Sunhaven to her peaceful camp once more.

Reunions

Alleriel strode with purpose down the street, her gaze roaming over the signs of the nearby shops. Dressed in carefully crafted leather armor that had been dyed red and accentuated with the red tabard of the Blackhearts, her outfit stood out amongst the lightly colored buildings of Dalaran, yet matched the red cobblestone streets perfectly. With the half-mask she wore to protect her face from the bitter northern cold pulled down, Alleriel's peaceful demeanor was plain for all to see, written on her face in a smile as she took in the wonders of the city.

She had arrived only hours before, on the longest leg of her journey of self-discovery. Intent on retracing the events of the past few years and visiting the homes of her allies, she had already visited many different locations across Azeroth and even the Outlands. It was now time for her to explore the frozen north, where her people had sacrificed and lost much to help defeat the Scourge in recent times. Already the frozen vistas and brilliant dawns had captivated her heart, and she was eager to see what else the lands had to show her about herself and her people. That was, of course, after she obtained some proper cold-weather equipment. Even perfectly balanced Chi would keep frostbite away for only so long.

As she rounded a corner, she came up short when an elf stepped away from one of the doorways and blocked her path. He was the same height as her, his pink complexion and soft features marking him as being of the same race. The difference between her and the stranger extended only to the soft blue glow of his eyes, and the distinct displeasure scrawled across his face.

"Can I help you sir?" Alleriel said, the smile still on her face.

The elf's scowl merely deepened as he reached into a pocket on the coat he wore and withdrew a piece of parchment. As he moved, Alleriel was able to glimpse the armor he wore beneath the heavy garment through the open front, and her eyes widened.

Why would a Silver Covenant member wish to stop me....?

He thrust the paper towards her, and she reached out slowly, trepidation overcoming her natural calm. A heavy lump settled in her chest as she took the parchment. The Quel'dorei didn't bother to say anything to her as she took it, merely turning and hurrying away as if being near her would cause him to contract an illness.

For her part, Alleriel merely unfolded the piece of paper, her sea green eyes widening as she discovered it contained only an address and a time. A time that was nearly upon her. With a resigned nod, she folded the paper up and looked to the nearest street sign, already plotting her path to the written address.

Getting her bearings in the city quickly, she hurried along the various streets, her gaze now looking to street signs rather than to shop signs. At last she found the address that was indicated, and stepped to the front door, opening it and stepping inside what appeared to be a florist's shop. The shop keeper, a human woman, looked at her and nodded once, as if she was expected. She tilted her head towards the back door, and then resumed pruning a small plant she had been handling when Alleriel stepped in.

With a shrug, Alleriel moved towards the door indicated, and stepped through into the shop's back room, closing the barrier behind her. She discovered immediately that it wasn't dark within the enclosed space because there were magical lights illuminating the small room, allowing her to see clearly the shelves of planting pots, tools, and sacks of soil.

And the two Quel'dorei elves standing within the room awaiting her.

Alleriel took a deep breath to calm herself, bringing herself upright and presenting a formal appearance as best she could given her stained and worn travel gear. The two elves before her wore long, flowing white robes that bore the symbols of the Silver Covenant on them. It did not surprise Alleriel that they were there though. After all, it only made sense.

She dipped her head once, murmuring softly, "Ann'da. Minn'da. It has been long since I've seen you both. I hope that you are well."

The two elves looked her, almost regal in their stance, their blue eyes studying every detail of their daughter as if measuring and weighing her. It was true that Alleriel had not seen her parents since the rift between those who would become Sin'dorei and those who had remained Quel'dorei.

"We are well, Alleriel," her father said softly. Kethan Sunhaven had always been one to speak as efficiently as possible, and he wasted little breath on needless words here. This was not a happy family reunion, but a necessary inspection of his heir.

Beside Kethan, Alleriel's mother Denala Sunhaven stirred, the golden blonde hair that so matched her daughter's shifting slightly. She offered Alleriel a half smile, her voice warmer as she spoke in turn, "And you Alleriel? How do you fare, and what of the fortunes of House Sunhaven?"

Alleriel took in a soft breath to balance herself, knowing that she had to remain calm and focused before her parents. She spoke with a steady voice, "We fare well. Although times were difficult immediately following your departure, we have managed to survive and prosper even in darkness. Recent events have been...unfortunate, and required that I make decisions to help restore balance to those you left in my care and our people."

Kethan nodded, his face betraying little emotion, "We are aware of the events in Theramore, Alleriel. It was difficult to face the knowledge that those we left behind were capable of such acts. I trust you have taken the lesson of this incident to heart? You were always wise enough to see the truth of things."

Alleriel swallowed once, her attempts to remain focused failing for the first time in many weeks. All of the training in the world could not keep her inner Chi aligned when faced with the judgement of her parents and the acts that the Sin'dorei had helped commit. She merely nodded, her face pale as she looked her parents in the eyes, "I have taken it to heart Ann'da. As a result of this act, House Sunhaven has been purged of all magic. We live a more simplistic lifestyle now, and those whom you left under my guidance seek a way to free ourselves and purify our spirits. It is my hope that we can learn a new path, and teach others as well, before we repeat the mistakes of our former Prince."

Alleriel's parents paused for a moment, glancing at each other. There was more communicated in that glance than an entire conversation, and the silence in the room weighed heavily on Alleriel. Her parents had left her as the ruler of House Sunhaven when they had chosen to remain Quel'dorei and face the ravages of the Thirst after the death of the Sunwell. They knew then, when they left, that Alleriel would do what she could to guide those who stayed behind wisely. Those who stayed behind, those who became green-eyed Sin'dorei, would at least have someone to care for them in the darkness. Alleriel's sacrifice in remaining had been difficult for both Quel'dorei to process, and now, for the first time, they had the chance to see what she had done, what she had become.

It was a chance to witness and judge her.

Her mother turned back towards her, a look of concern on her face, "You are traveling the world without magic Alleriel? That is quite dangerous."

Alleriel smiled and dipped her head, "Minn'da, I have been training in new ways, different ways brought to us from faraway lands. It is my hope that studying these new ideas and new culture will allow me to find some enlightenment that will aid House Sunhaven in the trials to come. I am...capable, even if unarmed, and such power cannot be abused, because it requires strength of will, focus, and a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. I hope that I will, in time, become proficient enough in these ways to teach others, and help heal the Sin'dorei."

Again silence descended between the three elves and Alleriel watched her parents as they exchanged another glance. Finally, Kethan nodded once, a slight smile creasing his lips, "Alleriel, we are very proud of you. You have done much to correct the many things wrong in Quel'Thalas. Although it was difficult to watch you choose to stay behind, we understand why you felt it was necessary. We cannot join you in your journey, for we chose a different path, but know that we support you even when we are not there."

Alleriel's heart ached as her father spoke the words that she'd secretly been wishing to hear for years. She had had no way of talking to either of her parents once the rift formed between Quel'dorei and Sin'dorei, and the Silver Covenant especially was an enemy to her people now. This chance meeting, this brief moment with them, told Alleriel all she needed to know about the righteousness of her path. She would not fail them, and would not fail the Sin'dorei. They would survive the coming war and heal as a people. She would see to it as long as she had breath in her body.

She looked down, tears filling her eyes as her self-control broke. It was rare for her to allow emotion to penetrate so deeply through her rigid training, but she had not been taught to reject good emotions. Quite the opposite, she had been taught that they strengthened her spirit, and that she should embrace them. Even as she began to cry, she felt both of her parents move closer, their arms encircling her and holding her tight.

For a moment the three stood, holding each other in happy reunion, Alleriel's mother soothing her by patting her hair. After a time, the moved apart, the older Quel'dorei looking at Alleriel with a mixture of pride and sadness.

"We cannot tarry here long Alleriel," Kethan said softly. "With things as they are in the world now, we cannot be seen with you publicly. Not here, and not now. Maybe with time, even this wound will heal and we can reunite with you. Know though that we will always be here in your darkest hours my daughter."

Alleriel nodded, taking a breath to calm herself again and allowing her Chi to balance perfectly within her. Her face glowed with peace and serenity, and her parents smiled at her with pride. She moved forward, embracing them one last time, "I will not fail Quel'Thalas. Our people will have their soul again one day. Our mistakes will be long forgotten in the past, and we will heal. I swear it will be so."

With that she turned, slipping from the room and leaving her parents behind, her last sight of them the smiles on their aged faces. She had a lightness in her heart now that she would carry with her through the rest of her journey. She realized, as she returned to the streets of Dalaran, that coming here had had the exact purpose and effect that she'd hoped; she had found another piece of herself, found another point of serenity upon which to focus. As all of the learning she'd experienced previously had done for her, this trip would teach her many things about herself, her family, and her purpose on Azeroth.

Muddied Waters

Biara sat in a high-backed chair, a large table spread out before her with several maps of Quel'Thalas laid over it. Upon the maps were a number of notations, troop placement markers, and depictions of various assets of all of the four Houses included in the Blackhearts alliance. The purpose of the information was to show the Magistrix exactly how the now-increased company was deployed within their homeland and where it could best be put to use if deployed outside of Quel'Thalas, such as the groups that had already been sent on to Pandaria with Kyliska's battlegroup.

As she looked over the map, Biara sighed, making a few new notations on the document before pausing to glare critically at the entire pile of documents. There was no mistaking the situation; with four Houses now included in the alliance and several of them deploying men and materials to Pandaria, the delicate balance of power within the city was on a knife's edge. If any House depleted their forces too far, they would be weak within Quel'Thalas and one of the other Houses could use the opportunity to snatch up undefended assets. On the reverse point of view, if any House withheld too many resources, they would lose face in the overall political background of Silvermoon's elite as they would appear to be less loyal. It was a tricky situation indeed.

Biara's thoughts were interrupted as a servant approached, sealed letter in hand. The servant placed the letter on the table before offering the Magistrix a bow and quickly retreating. Biara audibly groaned when she saw the seal gracing the letter's exterior. The lack of magic on the parchment had been enough of a hint but seeing the emblem of a sun rising between two trees embedded in the wax let her know it was another letter from House Sunhaven. With a rolling of her eyes, Biara picked the document up and broke the seal, reading swiftly.

Magistrix Sunfire,
 Greetings and salutations! I am writing to you in regards to several important points that have become a topic of deep debate between myself and several other members of our alliance. I wished to make my sentiments on these matters abundantly clear since there has been rumor and hearsay flying about like loose mana on the wind. It is always best to address such matters directly and with integrity to avoid future complications in my opinion.

The first matter I wished to address is the issue of Theramore. Although I am currently traveling, I have been corresponding with my seneschal as well as members of some of the other Houses involved in our alliance. It has come to my attention that House Dawnsea has recently made statements abhorring the abominable acts that were committed at Theramore by Horde forces. In direct contrast to this, it is my understanding that you yourself have made direct declarations condoning this historic event and hailing it as a great achievement of our people.

It is my wish that the two Houses come together in some form of agreement upon this matter. While I do not believe we should go so far as to publicly condemn the act, I also do not believe that your own stance on this matter is entirely accurate, as I believe you would feel utterly different if such an act were to occur in Quel'Thalas. In fact, one could argue that the Deadscar is very similar to the damage done to Theramore's physical structure.

House Dawnsea is correct, in theory, that the use of such magics is abhorrent. We have seen more than enough suffering due to this force and we understand the danger it poses and the damage it can do to our beloved lands. Actively encouraging the development of such weaponry is absolutely unacceptable for any member of this alliance, and I urge you to consider strongly your words on this matter before expressing them publicly in the future.

That being said, in every argument there is a point of balance where the two sides agree more than disagree. I have come to see this in my travels, and even in this argument it is true. While House Dawnsea may be correct to condemn the act, they are not correct to say that the act was entirely unwarranted, and your point of view has some merit. Theramore was not entirely neutral as public opinion would lead one to believe. Fort Triumph, which was itself responsible for the destruction sewn amongst the Tauren, was being supplied from somewhere. It is highly unlikely and illogical even to think that the men and women of Fort Triumph landed on some desolate shore rather than at Theramore's docks. It is clear that this city-state was, in fact, supplying the Horde's foes for some time, facade of neutrality or not. Therefore, your argument that the attack on this city was justified is not entirely incorrect. The friend of my enemy is my enemy after all, yes?

Consider my words carefully for the future, I beg of you. Neither viewpoint should be taken to such lengths as to attempt to represent all of the Blackhearts company, for there are so many differing opinions that the waters have become too muddied to see through. 

My final point before I leave you to your work is to inform you that I have moved one half-company in support of your sister Kyliska. She should expect to see the arrival of our men on this new continent within a week's time, and I myself will be joining them once I have finished my contemplation and training. It is only fitting that I go myself, for your House has dedicated its own blood to the journey, and I hear rumor that House Moonblade's Scion has herself seen fit to depart for this distant land. A donation of blood will be met in kind, and you can be assured that I will do my part for our people.

I bid you farewell Magistrix. May your path be green and golden.
With warm regards,
Alleriel Sunhaven
Scion of House Sunhaven
Former Magistrix of the Whispering Grove

Biara let the letter fall to the table's surface, sighing heavily. A manicured hand came up to massage her temples as she tried to absorb the irritating words of her new ally. It was clear that House Sunhaven would only make matters more complex, and yet the forces it brought were vital to House Sunfire; that much was clearly spelled out on the map before her.

In some frustration, Biara looked around her war room and noted that Kyliska had left some of her training equipment stacked neatly in a corner. For a brief moment, she had the urge to pick up one of Kyliska's swords and take her irritation out on one of the training dummies in the practice yard. She could see now why her sister liked to beat the dummies into useless pulps some days.

Kyliska's methods might not be entirely inappropriate.

Biara sighed again, shaking her head and rising. She would go and read a book and try to put all of these thoughts from her mind for a time. In some ways, her sister was the lucky one; she'd rather be dealing with deadly creatures than having to read these inane letters constantly!

Change on the Wind

"Elf! Let's see your papers!"

Alleriel winced as the voice called out behind her, subconsciously hunching over slightly. It was, of course, far too late to avoid detection or harassment, but perhaps if she made herself as non-threatening as possible the entire thing would go more quickly.

She was in the Valley of Wisdom in Orgrimmar, walking past the various structures there on her way to obtain more supplies for her journey. She'd spent some time in the region so far, particularly in Durotar and Azshara assisting the orcs and goblins in the area. While the work had been somewhat violent, she'd also aided quite a few of the local citizens and felt overall good about the trip. Until, that is, she came to Orgrimmar.

It had been clear from the moment she arrived that her kind was not welcomed there. From the suspicious glances to the random searches by Kor'kron that seemed to be conducted on all foreigners or people acting 'suspiciously,' Alleriel had seen more than enough to know she didn't wish to remain in the city for very long. She'd taken great efforts to cover her face and head with a hood, but nothing could disguise her ears, which gave her away immediately.

"Are you deaf elf?" the voice said, more demanding now. "I want to see your papers!"

Alleriel turned to find five rather burly orcs staring her down. In full combat armor and festooned with weapons, they were typical Kor'kron grunts that she'd seen keeping the population in line as the Warchief continued to gear up for full-scale war. That she'd avoided them until now had been a blessing, but it seemed her luck was over. She took a deep breath, reaching into a pocket sewn into her leather armor to pull out several documents. One was simply her identification, while the other was the sealed and signed charter of the Blackhearts, detailing her rank within the organization and the greater Horde military. The Kor'kron might have the authority to search her, but there were limits to what they could do if there were no officers present. Judging by the look of the five, none of them were officer material.

The orc that had challenged Alleriel snatched the papers from her hands, scanning them over quickly before thrusting them back at her with a grunt. He scrutinized her weather-beaten armor, tanned skin and golden blonde hair before growling, "This seems to be in order. Go about your business and then leave. We don't want your kind ruining the strength and power of our city."

Alleriel frowned slightly and offered the orc a curtsey before turning and starting to walk away. She sighed with relief, knowing that the encounter could have been worse. Ever since she'd left Quel'Thalas the rumors of the Warchief's ever more intolerant bully-force had reached her ears, and now she'd seen it first hand. Just as she was almost out of earshot of the five, she heard the orc bark out again.

"You! Boy! What do you think you're doing? You should be over in the labor camp. We've need of more strong arms for one of the iron mines."

Although it was against her nature to intentionally seek out confrontation, Alleriel could not help but turn her head to look back. The five orcs had surrounded a much smaller orc, looming over him as one roughly grabbed his arm. The orc they were accosting could not have been more than an adolescent, although Alleriel was not great at judging the age of other races. Despite every nerve in her body telling her to keep walking, she found her body turning and stepping towards the orcs, her own voice surprising her.

"Unhand him at once!"

All five orcs turned to glare at Alleriel, and she swallowed a lump that had suddenly developed in her throat as she continued to move towards them. The lead orc growled at her again, his eyes staring daggers, "This is none of your concern elf! If you know what's good for you you'll leave at once!"

Alleriel did just the opposite, walking closer and quickly inserting herself between the terrified looking young orc and the Kor'kron. She straightened up to her full height, looking the leader directly in the eyes. It was hard for her to project the power of her station wearing her battered travel gear instead of the dresses and finery she might have worn at court back in Quel'Thalas, but she WAS the Lady Sunhaven and she'd be damned if she watched some soldiers try to forcibly recruit a CHILD of all things.

"This boy is a Page for my portion of our forces," Alleriel said, her voice firm. As she spoke, she looked around to see what the reaction of the local populace was. As she had hoped, most were not interested at all and those that were would not be likely to interfere. If they helped the Kor'kron, it would make them look weak since they outnumbered her and would be insulting. Most would not stand against them to aid her, so she was on her own. Just as she'd hoped.

They respect strength. I have to be strong in my stand or they will try to crush me.

The orc she addressed glared at her, stepping closer and looming over her, his bulk many times her size, "I don't think so elf. He goes to the mines. And you're coming with us if you don't get out of my way. Right. Now."

Alleriel took a deep breath, calming herself and focusing, falling into a meditative place within herself where she was at peace and calm. Although she'd only been studying the ways of the monks for a very short time, she had learned much and banishing fear, anger, and rage was one of the key goals she had focused her studies on. She looked at the orc with a serene expression as she replied calmly, "No. I am the Lady Alleriel Sunhaven, Scion of House Sunhaven. This boy is my Page. You are not authorized to take him, nor to command me. Stand down and continue with your duties."

The orc grinned, and behind him the other four began to draw weapons with the sickening sound of steel sliding out of sheaths. Alleriel remained calm, focused and balanced within herself. Her eyes look at the orc as if she were in a distant place as he took a step towards her, still growling, "I warned you elf. Now you will suffer the consequences."He reached for Alleriel, his hand about to clamp on her arm, the onlookers grinning as they realized there would be a fight.

And then she exploded into movement.

There was no warning, no warcry, no hint of anger or rage on her face as she moved. One moment his hand was about to clamp down on her rather small arm, the next moment she was simply not there. She dodged past him as if he were no obstruction at all, rolling between two of the other orcs who also tried to grab her. She whirled as she came to her feet, falling into a half-crouch, her hands up, palms open as she watched the orcs. Although Alleriel carried two swords on her back, she didn't dare draw them, as any intent to kill the orcs would be illegal and WOULD egg the crowd on to aiding her assailants.

The orcs looked at each other, shrugged and then grinned before charging her.

The first orc lunged with his sword, aiming it with deadly intent at her torso. To his everlasting surprise,  her hand darted out at JUST the exact right moment to slap the flat of his blade and send the weapon off course. His momentum carried him forward, and she stepped within the reach of his arms, her other hand locking with his still swinging forearm and hooking it in the crook of her arm. She applied force to him as he moved, and his arm bent at an unnatural angle. All of the orcs winced as the sound of a bone snapping could be heard, followed quickly by his howls. Alleriel spun, letting him trip and fall past her.

The others were already rushing towards her, blades extended. She rolled again, the weapons narrowly missing her lithe form as she dodged, slashing nothing but air. As she came up on her feet in a crouch, her leg swept out, taking one of the orcs by surprise and sending him tumbling to the ground in the path of one of his companions. The second orc tripped, his arms windmilling as he landed face first atop his comrade.

Alleriel darted forward, using the fallen pile of orcs to gain height as she moved. A fourth orc had rushed towards her after her roll, and she launched herself into the air from atop the pile of orcs beneath her, her form flying across the distance in a heartbeat. Instead of encountering an elf in a crouch on the ground, the rushing orc found a well-made leather boot connecting squarely with his face. He gave a light grunt as the impact knocked him out, his weapon tumbling to the ground and followed soon after by his unconscious form. He landed atop the other two orcs, who grunted as the unconscious weight slammed into them.

Alleriel landed, whirling to face the last orc in the group. Behind her, one orc whimpered pathetically, nursing his broken arm, and two others were grumbling at each other as they attempted to push their unconscious friend off so they could get up. The remaining orc glared at her, his voice rough and threatening, "You will pay for all of this elf. Your pain will last for days before we finish with you."

Alleriel did not respond. She simply dropped back into a crouch, serenity and focus on her face, her hands open and awaiting the next attack. The orc quickly obliged, charging across the distance and bringing his two hand-axes up to slash at Alleriel.

She wasted no time, moving in swiftly. As the first axe came down, her hands lashed out, striking the orc in the throat, then stomach, and then groin. As her opponent reeled back from the lightning fast blows, she stepped in closer, slipping past one of his flailing axes and making it impossible to strike at her. She darted around him, a hand lashing out and striking one of his knees as she moved.

The orc turned in a panic, his axes lashing out and hitting nothing but air, "She's like a damned sprite darter!"

Alleriel rolled, coming up in a crouch a short distance away from the orc, her hands again open, awaiting his move. She took a deep breath, keeping herself centered and focused.

I am a sprite darter. I am the wind.

Enraged by her lack of response and the humiliating blows he'd taken, the leader of the Kor'kron group roared and charged at her. She rushed forward as he moved, coming to meet him in an unexpected counter attack. As his first axe came up, her hand lashed out, striking his underarm and dislocating his shoulder. His roar turned into a yelp as the axe tumbled from nerveless fingers, his second weapon slapped away by a well timed parry from Alleriel.

Her hands lashed out again, striking his chest near his diaphragm and driving the air from his lungs. As he bent forward, coughing and gasping, her whole body whirled in a circular motion, her foot coming up to connect squarely with the side of his head. His now-unconcious body cart-wheeled sideways before landing unceremoniously in a heap on the nearby ground.

Alleriel completed the move and came to a rest, not even remotely out of breath, her hands coming together before her as she inhaled and exhaled, retaining her center of balance and focus of Chi. Before her, the two orcs that were still conscious and battle ready looked at their two unconscious comrades and the third holding his broken arm and then gave each other glances. Around them, the crowd laughed at the fact that five trained warriors had been unable to defeat an unarmed women. Flushing with shame, the two quickly sheathed their weapons, each of them grabbing one of their unconscious comrades before hurrying off, the ever-increasing jeers of the crowd sending them on their way.

Alleriel remained unmoving for a moment, completing the mental exercises necessary to purge her mind and body of the exhilaration that combat brought and keeping her thoughts centered. She breathed in and out again, her eyes closed. She felt a tug on her armor, and her sea green eyes opened to see the orc child standing before her.

"T-thank you miss! That was GREAT!" the orc said happily.

Alleriel smiled at him and nodded, her exercises complete and her mind clear, "It was necessary.  They believe that strength of arms is all that matters, and cannot appreciate the rest of what the world has to offer. Remember that lesson well as you grow older. It is not just strength of arms, but strength of heart and mind, that matter."

The young orc nodded at Alleriel, his eyes wide, "I-I'll remember that!"

Alleriel smiled and offered him one last piece of advice before turning to leave, "My offer stands by the way. You may become a Page of House Sunhaven if you wish. If you cannot find something safer to do here."

She paused, turning to hand him a token with the emblem of her House on it, "Simply present this to the guards, and they will know what to do. This is not a requirement though, but an offer. You have the right to choose your own path, and whatever path you choose, may it be green and golden young one."

With that she walked away, the crowd parting to let her pass and the young orc smiling at the golden emblem in his hand. It had been a brief encounter, but it had taught both orc and elf much in that short time.

Alleriel would know now to be more careful amongst her 'allies' that was for certain.

A Letter of Acceptance

Biara sighed, shaking her head and setting the parchment down on the writing desk before her. She reached out, her delicately manicured hand scooping up a goblet of fine wine which she sipped as her fel green eyes ran over the contents of her desk once more.

It had been several days now since the Blackhearts had been ordered to assemble an expeditionary force to aid the Horde war effort, and in that time Biara had come to some stark realizations over the position of House Sunfire within the grand workings of Quel'Thalas.

They were low on manpower.

Not just low, bereft. The fall of Dayfire Spire had slain many House Dayfire supporters, and even with the money Kyliska had provided from her own coffers to found House Sunfire, they had only been able to assemble a small military force. What was worse, House Dawnsea had ALMOST claimed control of the Blackhearts military company while House Dayfire was in decline. Only the presence of House Moonblade forces in the mix, combined with the new House Sunfire's tenuous grip on outlying properties liberated from House Dawnsea allowed Biara to even command a fraction of the force. As a result, when the call had gone out for troops to be supplied to Quel'Thalas, it had forced a round of negotiations as the Magistrix tried to find a way to supply those troops without draining House Sunfire's forces at a crucial time.

And thus, the letter and papers sitting on Biara's desk. And the reason for her headache.

Biara took another sip of wine before setting the goblet down, a golden bracelet on her wrist sparkling in the magical lights that surrounded her. Although the negotiations were not entirely favorable, things could have been worse she supposed. Maybe. Her gaze came to rest once more on the letter before her.

Magistrix Sunfire,

Greetings and salutations! I pray that this letter finds both yourself, and your sister Kyliska in excellent health. I was pleased with our recent discussions over the future of Quel'Thalas and the need to meet the Warchief's demands for troops and materials of war.

As we had discussed, let this letter mark my official and joyous acceptance of your offer for a military alliance between House Sunfire and House Sunhaven. I believe that between us and the other Houses already included in your military company, we can gather the appropriate soldiers and materials needed to meet our obligations to our nation and to the Horde as a whole.

As we have previously discussed, I am henceforth dispatching four companies of House Sunhaven soldiers to our mutually agreed upon muster point. Please see the attached appendices for a complete list of the capabilities of these companies. As per the laws I am enforcing upon my own House, we will not be providing you with magical support or materials, as we no longer retain any Sin'dorei with such capabilities. 

Please also note that the Blood Knights I am dispatching alongside the above noted companies have been given their own command structure. Their role on the battlefield is that of healer and they have been ordered to engage in no bloodshed during any engagements that we may participate in. I am aware that your sister Kyliska already commands her own formidable assemblage of Blood Knights, and must remind you that my men are not under her direct command and have been ordered to ignore any orders contrary to my own during any deployments. As we discussed, I believe your sister is quite capable, but her methodology does not correspond with the edicts of House Sunhaven, and I would prefer if my men remain under the disciplinary guidelines we have in place for them.

I hope that we may work together towards a brighter, healthier Quel'Thalas where our people can once again live in peace and harmony with our ancestral lands and where we can, with a group effort, finally heal ourselves from the ravages that magic has left upon our bodies and minds.

I will be undertaking a journey over the next few months in an effort to learn more of our allies and the events that have transpired in the world. For too long I have remained secluded here, and it is time that I leave Quel'Thalas for a while to learn firsthand what has happened since the restoration of the Sunwell. During my absence, all requests may be routed through my seneschal, who will be more than happy to assist you with any issues that may arise. With luck, I will return in due time and the gates of Quel'Thalas will open for one who has gained some wisdom.

I wish you well, Magistrix Sunfire, and hope that these arrangements are pleasing to you. May your path be green and golden. 

Sincerely yours,
Alleriel Sunhaven
Scion of House Sunhaven
Former Magistrix of the Whispering Grove

Biara sighed, shaking her head again as she reread the words. The alliance was necessary to maintain the balance of troops within the Blackhearts, and would help to ensure that House Sunfire didn't fade in power as they recruited more Sin'dorei to their cause. She could only hope that Lady Sunhaven was less irksome to deal with than the other Houses already included in the fragile alliance. Time would tell.

Her headache was getting worse.

"I swear this will be the death of me," the Magistrix murmured as she arose from her chair. "Miscalculations and defeats have forced us to this point. Let us hope that we can rise above the need for such things one day."

With that she walked from the room, heading towards the armory. She had much business to complete before the day was done, and the work was vital to the growth of House Sunfire.