Kathanna giggled as Anduin's lips were against her cheek, brushing it lightly – and yet that light touch was sending shivers through her nerves, shivers that made her whole body tremble. He placed soft kisses on her scar, ensuring to give enough attention to every feature of her he adored – including her scars. His lips trailed back to Kathanna's, they kissed slowly and passionate, their breaths growing heavier as Anduin pulled Kathanna closer to his chest.
After another, long day in Dalaran City – Anduin found himself wandering on a sleepless night. To his luck, Kathanna was awake in her chamber, taking the liberty to draw on her free evening with some colorful pencils which she purchased from a store within the magi city. She has offered to keep Anduin company until his eyes would grow tired.
At first – the king and his champion were merely sitting on the sofa, nearby the fireplace, sharing to each other the knowledge they knew regarding the city of Dalaran before it was destroyed, history of Azeroth before the human kingdoms appeared and whatever topic that was possible to keep them distracted from their current troubles.
Soon enough, their discussion became shorter and shorter as they began stroking each other's arms and planting kisses their cheeks and lips. And then suddenly, their voices completely ceased from talking and the only sound heard in Kathanna's guest chamber was the sound of kisses between the two lovers.
Despite his desire to withhold coitus until marriage, Anduin would not hesitate to share amorous exchange with his dearest Kathanna. He took great pleasure in it as much as she did. Kathanna was respectable of his choices and never did anything what would be seen as pushing it too far, granting Anduin the entire control. But the young king could feel it -
- Her body desired for more.
The way she tightly pressed her chest against him, how she caressed the back of his neck, the swift slipping of her tongue into his mouth.
Anduin knew she was holding back, and he partly felt guilty. It made him question certain choices that he has made and wondered if he was being fair to her.
Anduin broke away from the kiss, to gaze at Kathanna.
"What's wrong?" asked Kathanna alarmed, concerned she has crossed a line.
"Nothing." Smiled Anduin, he lifted his hand to cup Kathanna's cheek. His heart warmed as he lovingly looked in her brown eyes. He could have never imaged one single person making him feel so many emotions. He has experienced parental love; he even knew the feeling of the love his kingdom had for him. But this… Anduin wondered if this was the love so many songs and poems are written about. "Merely savoring this." He whispered to her.
Kathanna's cheeks flushed pink at hearing his answer as her lips formed a smile. She leaned in into his palm, her expression displaying utmost comfort and joy. As they stared at each other - Kathanna drew him toward her with her eyes, he inclined his face towards her and laid his mouth on hers.
His arms encircled her waist once again, as he deepened the kiss. Daringly his tongue entered her mouth, exploring tenderly, slowly, burning the taste of her into his memory. Soft moans of pleasure were heard from Kathanna, her hands begun traveling up to Anduin's head until she found the tie that kept his hair together. With a swift pull she took it off, allowing Anduin's golden locks to rest freely as she dangled her fingers in them. The tips of her long nails were tickling Anduin's head, which the king found quite pleasant.
Kathanna's light tunic, which she usually was wearing for sleep, was sitting loosely on her torso, displaying large openings of her chest and stomach. It made easier for Anduin's hand to touch her exposed back. He found himself wishing for more, his body began desiring to feel her entire body as his arousal continued to grow.
Kathanna made no comment at the sensation of his hand touching her bare back, she continued to sensually kiss him while her fingers were playing with his hair.
Meanwhile, Anduin was debating inside his mind, battling with physical desires against the moral ones. He was no fool, he was well aware his body was aching for intimate touch and he well knew he wished for it to be with Kathanna. He has thought of it when they were apart for a year – he dreamt about her.
Nonetheless, Anduin has always considered (or at least was taught to), that saving yourself for the person one would marry would share an intimacy and experience worth waiting for. Ever since he has started to go through his adolescent changes, the young Wrynn was told to be aware of whom he would lay with; fathering a bastard with a mistress or someone of a commoner status, would cause a scandal in the court of Stormwind; a scandal which could be "easily" avoided if he would not succumb to his physical desires.
But times change, and now that he was together with Kathanna – the young king has started to question the mentality he was raised with. Kathanna was no mere mistress to him, and although the time since they have begun pursuing their romance was short, Anduin felt that their unique connection would last a lifetime. Of course, the matter of marriage or children was a thought far into the distance; however, it was a possibility.
As Anduin continued to tenderly kiss Kathanna, his right hand caressed her nude back, trailing with the tips of his fingers around her rib-cage. He gasped mid-kiss when he felt the form of her bosom. Kathanna was very petite, even for human standards, hence her chest wasn't visible in the layers of armor she would usually wear. Yet, despite the size, he felt its well-rounded form. His heartbeat was increasing and his mind began forming an image of Kathanna lying bare underneath him.
Why was he hesitating? He cared for Kathanna a great deal – she desired it. There was nothing holding them back aside from Anduin's decision.
Maybe he should…
Suddenly, Kathanna pulled away when a light noise was heard coming from the window, as if something hit the glass. She stared at the window but nothing was visible aside from the dark star-filled sky of the city. Anduin, who has heard it as well, turned his head to view the window as well, hoping to see the cause of the noise.
They glanced at each other and then Anduin retrieved his hands away from Kathanna, to allow her to walk towards the window.
She unlocked it with haste and popped her head outside, analyzing every side of the tower.
"It's nothin'." Stated Kathanna with her head still outside the window. "Probably a bird dropped something against the glass, or merely the wind."
"I suppose." Said Anduin as he picked up the hair-tie which was lying on the lounge they sat on and began tying back his hair. Kathanna ran her fingers through her brown hair and gave Anduin a smile. He tore his gaze away with a large blush on his face when he noticed her erect nipples visible through her tunic. Kathanna furrowed, unable to understand why Anduin suddenly cut eye-contact with her. Then she swiftly realized the cause of it by examining herself up and down. A blush appeared on her cheeks as well; she paced towards the chair and picked up a spare purple vest of hers and put it on to cover her half-exposed torso; she mumbled a "Sorry." during the process to which Anduin shook his head:
"Don't be. It's…" the king coughed unable to find the correct words. Kathanna bit her lower lip but then gave Anduin a smile in attempt to ease the awkward situation. He returned the smile and rose on his feet, he approached Kathanna to place a kiss on her cheek.
Despite the heated passion exchange moment being gone, Anduin enjoyed just as much holding Kathanna in his arms and caress her hair. He wondered if Kathanna was intending to bring up what has occurred earlier but the monk simply buried her face in chest and released a yawn.
"I should retire for tonight." Decided Anduin, Kathanna lifted her head to face him, her smile ever remaining on her lips, but slight disappointment was visible in her eyes – perhaps she desired for his company a little longer. "It would not be wise to stay up until late."
"Agreed." Nodded Kathanna, once again she leaned in into Anduin's chest and wrapped her arms around him. "Should I escort you to your chamber, my king?"
Anduin chuckled and blushed at her, he could never get used to being called "My King", especially by Kathanna.
"It's just across the hall. I will be fine." He kissed her softly. "Good night, Kathy."
"Good night." She smiled as she watched Anduin exiting her chamber.
Kathanna stood in front of the door for a little while, waiting to hear Anduin's footsteps fade into the hallway and finally him entering his chamber and close the door behind him.
Then, she returned to the window and once again opened it.
"Get in." commanded Kathanna coldly and took a couple of steps away from the window.
Serenia swiftly jumped off the roof and grabbed upon the edge of the window, pulling herself up to enter in Kathanna's chamber.
The brunette blood elf gave Kathanna a smile, her lips were painted in a crisp red color as before.
"We agreed we will have our discussion in the early morning." Scolded Kathanna.
"Yeah… I am not a morning person." Stated Serenia. "Hence, we are going to have a discussion now." Kathanna took in a deep loud breath as a sign of irritation and sized up Serenia.
"Daggers." Kathanna said while crossing her arms, she was attempting her best to keep her expression stone; despite being completely flustered after her time with Anduin.
Serenia rolled her green eyes and unsheathed the steel weapons which were tied on the sides of her waist. She put them at the table next to Kathanna and gave the monk a taunting smile.
"Happy?" asked the blood elf mockingly. Kathanna did not reply, she merely stared at Serenia. "I do not understand why you are being so paranoid; I could kill you with my bare hands if I wanted to." She said in a melodic tone. Kathanna glared at her.
"So could I, so stop gettin' on my nerves."
It has been two days since she has spoken with Serenia and her small team regarding the demon that infiltrated Anduin's inner circle with the intention to push the young king towards a war against the Horde.
Serenia has kept to her word – she and the Uncrowned organization have been attempting to discover more of the imposter of the Alliance and every new information she learnt was delivered to Kathanna via letters.
To avoid suspicion, Kathanna told Serenia to hid her reports underneath a flower pot inside the main chamber of Archmange Khadgar's tower. Nobody would suspect looking underneath a planted flower and everyone could access the main floor to either have discussion with the Council of the Six or to view the library. Such exchange of letters have been happening at every sunrise and sundown. Until Kathanna has finally wrote that she desired to discuss with Serenia in person during an early morning – of course, the blood elf has decided to have the meeting in her own way.
"So," began Serenia, "What about those Alliance contacts of yours?"
"I sent the message yesterday; they should arrive any day now." Kathanna has delayed sending a message to her friends from Stormwind asking for their presence in Dalaran, due to unable to find a time when she would be by herself. Kathanna was attempting her best to be as discreet as possible regarding her "partnership" with the Horde, it made her feel guilty for hiding this to Anduin. She ensured herself that she doing this for his own protection.
"Good." Smiled the blood elf, she crossed her arms and took a seat at the chair, taking the liberty of extending her feet atop the desk. Kathanna flinched at the rogue's attitude but made no commentary, by now she realized Serenia enjoyed teasing Kathanna with miniature taunts. "Together with the Uncrowned, I have located bodies of some SI:7 scouts' on the Broken Shore. You and I should head there together and analyze those bodies. To see if among the dead is someone important from the SI:7 that a dreadlord might pose as."
"Why not just bring them? Why hail to that graveyard now?" the thought of standing on the soil of the Broken Shore formed a knot in Kathanan's stomach. All of those deaths, all of that loss. She felt like she would be forced to relive them again by merely breathing the air in that place.
"I fear removing the corpses might attract Legion's attention." Stated Serenia simply. "Analyzing the entire battlefield with a small elite team might help us learn more of the trap Legion has planted when they have first invaded."
This plan sounded both well-crafted and badly thought to Kathanna.
"A small elite team?" repeated Kathanna followed by a scoff. "You truly think the Burning Legion completely abandoned that place and we won't 'attract attention' by merely bein' there? Small team or not – they will notice us." Argued the monk, but the blood elf was confident regarding her plan and merely shook her head.
"I just think the Legion won't see it coming – heroes of the world are recovering the Pillars of Creation with a surprising haste; the demons are desperate to turn us against each other in order to prevent that." Debated Serenia. "As I mentioned before, Broken Shore was a trap. The trap that has been successfully laid by them – a hunter does not use the same trap twice."
Kathanna remained silent, she questioned herself, why in the Light's name was she trusting this blood elf. She was so afraid of a demon merely touching a lock of Anduin's hair with its claw that she was ready to fight alongside the Horde. However, the monk has also theorized that her subconscious mind might be desiring for some actions after weeks of following Anduin around, writing reports and assisting at meetings. Kathanna was a fighter, a person who thinks actions speak louder than words – she did not belong in politics or the royal court. She belonged on the battlefield.
"The moment my friends will arrive in Dalaran, I will meet you in the attic of the inn as before, and discuss this plan further ." Kathanna said in the end. A curled smile formed on Serenia's painted lips when she heard the monk agreeing to her plan. "It is highly likely it will be around late night – I am the king's bodyguard;" continued Kathanna. "I cannot merely disappear from his side to conduct personal affairs."
"Is that you're calling saving his life? "Personal affairs"?" the blood elf chuckled. She removed her feet off the table and rose out of the chair, facing the monk. The blood elf was just as slim as Kathanna, but due to her being on a couple of inches shorter than her, Serenia seemed smaller than Kathanna.
Seeing that the monk did not answer, Serenia released a chuckled and walked towards the window. Kathanna watched Serenia climbing on the edge of the window and giving her a wink.
"I will let you get your beauty sleep now. Tomorrow, in the attic." Said Serenia, and without giving Kathanna a moment to reply, she jumped off the tower.
Kathanna did not bother to look out of the window to see where Serenia head to or if she has even landed safely, the blood elf proved to be an expert and climbing off and on buildings.
Silently, Kathanna closed the window and blew away the candles, allowing the darkness of the night fully wrap her chamber. As she laid down in bed, she immediately shut her eyes; forcing herself to cease any worrying or concern she had in mind.
Eredes stared unblinking out of the window, watching the view of children kicking a ball to each other. She continued gazing at them for a while, not realizing that the mug she was drying off with a piece of cloth has been wiped away off water already.
The sun was shining warmly on the streets of Stormwind, lighting brightly Eredes' and Kathanna's house through the glass. The sunrays made Eredes' red hair look a crisp orange shade, almost like the color of a fox's fur, and the freckles on her nose and cheeks were more defined.
"I have news." Came Uldisian's voice; she saw him entering the house which confused the priestess. Last she recalled - the paladin was sleeping besides her in her bedroom. One would think Eredes would notice him coming downstairs and exiting the house. It made Eredes realize she has completely lost the track of time.
She put way the mug and piece of cloth and gave a smile, waiting for him to deliver the news he claims to know. The draenei unrolled the parchment he held in his hands and handed to the priestess.
"Kathanna is calling us to Dalaran." He told Eredes before she could even begin reading the letter. The message was short and clear, which allowed Eredes to read it quickly.
"This is not an official report nor order." Stated the priestess confused, her brows furrowed together as she was reading the sentences written by her friend over and over again. It was obviously written by Kathanna, given its smudgy penmanship. "It is an odd timing. Isn't she in Dalaran on the king's order? Why would she ask for a meet up?"
Uldisian gave Eredes a shrug.
"Whatever it is, she must have a reason for it." Assumed the draenei. "You are temporarily freed from your duties; it is good time as ever to pay Kathanna a visit in Dalaran."
Eredes gave a heavy sigh at hearing that sentence. She turned her head again towards the window, watching the orphans from across the street playing.
Ever since the return from Broken Shore, Eredes, much like many other soldiers, has been shaken by the loss of the battle and it affected not only her concentration but also her health. She has been writing reports, healing the wounded, aiding with burying the dead without a single intermission. One morning, she has fainted during a meeting with her squad which gave the superiors of the militia no choice but to force Eredes to temporarily resign from her duties.
But even without having the pressure of actively fulfilling her assignments, Eredes was restless – she has begun questioning the choices that led her to this lifestyle. So much pain, loss and trauma could have been avoided if she would have never stepped in Northshire and signed to become a cleric.
All of those thoughts were consuming her day and night. It has become difficult to maintain the daily chores; even with Uldisian constantly by her side.
The paladin, who was been a friend of hers and Kathanna's for more than four years, has finally found strength in his heart to confess his admiration for the priestess; and Eredes could not been happier, with everything she was going through – it felt like Uldisian was the only soul she could rely on, especially now that Kathanna has been promoted and was often away by the king's side. The little comfort Eredes currently had was Uldisian's warmth in her bed.
Hearing from Kathanna also cheered up the priestess, she had yearned for her sister-like friend. Whatever reason was for Kathanna's call, Eredes was happy to answer it.
"We better not keep her waiting then." Said Eredes without hesitation.
Thaldrin has returned to Dalaran with good news.
He and Jarod Shadowsong were able to successfully rescue the night elf's sister from Legion imprisonment alongside other Illidari prisoners. The Shadowsong siblings remained in Val'sharah to aid the Dreamweavers - a faction of powerful druids that grew under Cenarius's tutelage - to reclaim another Pillar of Creation which was hidden somewhere within the dense forest of Val'sharah.
It was Anduin who greeted Thaldrin upon his arrival in Dalaran. The young king was in the district which the city of magi has gifted strictly to Alliance members only; and Anduin immediately noticed the worgen warrior approaching Greyfang Enclave to have a rest inside the inn.
"Thaldrin!" exclaimed Anduin warmly, he walked away from a captain and a general that he was talking to and walked towards Thaldrin. "It is good to see that you are well."
"I am honored to receive such a welcoming greeting from you, Your Majesty." Said the worgen humbly as he lowered his dark brown-furred head. He searched the hallway around and asked Anduin: "Where is Kathanna?"
"Oh, she is on her way here. I asked her to retrieve some documents of mine from the Violet Citadel." Smiled the king.
Anduin was so enthusiastic to see Thaldrin eager to reunite with his daughter and Anduin knew Kathanna would be as excited as Thaldrin was. Even Anduin himself was happy to see their relationship blossoming into a true family.
Thaldrin gave a nod. Anduin returned to the two military leaders he was previously discussing with and said:
"I will join with you in this afternoon. Take some leisure for now." Ordered the king warmly. The two humans saluted their king. The worgen's ears could not help but twitch at Anduin's words, daringly Thaldrin asked:
"May I inquire – where are you heading to, Your Majesty?"
Anduin opened his mouth to speak but was interrupted by Kathanna's voice calling out Thaldrin.
"Father!" she exclaimed and swiftly approached the worgen for a short embrace. Thaldrin chuckled at Kathanna's excitement, he attempted to hug her as gently as possible, careful not to bruise her with his plate armor or scratch her with his long claws.
"It is good to see you again, Kathanna." Exhaled Thaldrin warmly. Kathanna's lips formed a smile, her eyes shining in relief from seeing Thaldrin safe. She pulled away from the worgen, readying herself to ask him everything about his mission in Val'sharah but suddenly Kathanna remembered she still was on duty.
"Oh." She mumbled looking down at her left hand in which she held a scroll sealed with the Alliance's symbol. Kathanna extended it to Anduin, embarrassed at her childish behavior from moments ago.
Any superior of hers would scold Kathanna for getting carried away even for a quick moment; Anduin, however, was not the type of person. He merely gave a smile and thanked her for retrieving the scroll.
Anduin watched the military superiors retreating as their king ordered. Leaving him alone with Kathanna and Thaldrin.
"To answer you question, Thaldrin." Begun with king, then he turned to Kathanna. "I also was just about to tell you - I have decided to return to Stormwind City." Declared Anduin. "General Hammond has confessed to me right now, that the citizens are unease that I have been away for too long; my people need me now – more than ever."
Kathanna blinked in surprise. She did not expect to hear such a decision coming from Anduin just yet. Last she has spoken to him regarding returning to Stormwind, the king displayed a visible bother to go back.
However, he was correct. It has been weeks since Anduin has been home, and while he is confident Genn could handle the responsibilities of the city – Anduin could not run away from the throne for eternity. Especially with the passing of Varian Wrynn, the citizens of Stormwind needed to feel protected by his heir. Kathanna was proud to see Anduin taking responsible choices for the sake of his kingdom.
Nonetheless – the king's decision to go back to Stormwind meant that his bodyguard had to come with him and that put Kathanna in a difficult position; it made her unable to work on her side mission alongside Serenia. She had to remain in Dalaran if she wished to pursue the Uncrowned's rumor that someone within Anduin's inner circle has intention to deceive him. However, that would mean Anduin would have to be in Stormwind City by himself, without the protection of his bodyguard. What if instead of whispering lies to the king, the dreadlord would decide to silence him? That thought shook Kathanna to her very bones.
"I see." Nodded the worgen. He paused for the moment, gathering his thoughts. "If I may, I wish to join you, Your Majesty." pleaded Thaldrin with another bow of his head. "I was the one who asked for your Majesty to accept the demon hunters, I believe I should be there with them. As I am the only one comfortable enough to have the Illidari around Stormwind. Jarod Shadowsong agreed to send me daily reports, so I can also provide you updates on the Broken Isles situation."
Kathanna smiled at her father, feeling a great relief. As if boulders were lifted away from her. She saw an opportunity – Thaldrin was a skilled, trustworthy warrior. Together with the Illidari (who claim to sense demons in their presence), Anduin can remain safe in Stormwind without Kathanna's worrying. Nonetheless – another challenge stood before her – convincing Anduin to allow her to remain in Dalaran.
Before she has left to aid the monks in the defense of Peak of Serenity, Anduin has confessed that he was utterly frightened at the thought of Kathanna facing the Burning Legion; which was an understandable feeling after the loss of his father.
Kathanna, much like him, was scared of fighting the demons after she witnessed their power but she has taken an oath to protect her people by fighting. As much as she enjoyed acting as Anduin's bodyguard and constantly being by his side – it was driving her mad remaining so passive. She had to fight on the front lines and she had to work alongside Serenia to locate the dreadlord before the demon causes too much damage.
If only Kathanna could find a way to tell it to Anduin without spilling the truth about her mission…
"Well put, Thaldrin." Nodded Anduin, agreeing to Thaldrin's proposition. "And I cannot thank you enough for your service."
"Thank me when this is all over, Your Majesty." Chuckled the worgen.
"I will retrieve my belongings from the guest chamber and I will be ready to depart." Anduin said, Thaldrin once again, bowed before the king as he began walking towards the Violet Citadel where his chamber was. Kathanna quietly followed Anduin, while attempting to resolve her dilemma within herself.
As Anduin began arranging his spare clothes, documents and whatever personal belonging he had, in a large, decorated chest - Kathanna was silently leaning against the door.
She was looking at Anduin but her gaze wasn't truly focused on him. Anduin could not help but notice the discomfort in his champion's eyes which prompted him to reach out to her:
"Kathy, are you alright?"
Kathanna snapped out of her thoughts at the sound of her name. This time her attention was directed to Anduin, however she could not yet speak.
Carefully she picked the words she was about to say. Thinking of a well-thought argument to convince Anduin to not argue with her regarding her desire to remain in Dalaran. However, despite having a well-crafted sentence in her mind, all she could say was:
"I think I will remain in Dalaran." She said plainly with haste. Her cheeks flushed pink in embarrassment due to her blabbering.
Anduin was silent, Kathanna could not read his expression. Was he angry? Worried? Disappointed?
"Very well." He spoke calmly. "I can send someone from the barracks to bring your battle-armor."
Kathanna blinked at him in shock.
"You-you're comfortable of the idea of me stayin' behind?" Kathanna continued to blabbered. "I have to admit… I was expectin' a slight argument."
Anduin exhaled and gave her a warm smile. He ran his fingers through his golden hair and bit his lower lip.
"I will be honest, I am terrified to let you go, Kathy." Confessed Anduin. "But I cannot keep you away from your battles. When Khadgar mentioned that the order of the monks recovered one of the Pillars of Creation – I saw your expression – you wanted to be among them. You want to fight on the front lines. I knew that about you ever since I met you – it is one of the reasons you are a monk after all. I feel
selfish keeping you by my side. And I will not abuse my power as a king to order you to return to Stormwind with me."
Kathanna exhaled and released a small giggle, she pushed herself away from the door and took a couple of steps closer to Anduin.
"But I'm your bodyguard." Kathanna said, still grasping the thought how she did not have to convince Anduin. "I have to remain by your side."
"I know. But you are also my champion, someone who fights on my behalf." Anduin cupped her cheek and gently caressed it with his thumb.
Kathanna did not say anything, Anduin's lips formed a smile and he pulled her for a strong embrace. She was so astounded how well he understood her that it left her speechless.
"I will pray every night for you to be safe." He whispered in her ear. Kathanna found herself tearing up, she buried her face in his shoulder as she swallowed her tears. Yes, she wanted to fight and free the world from the Legion's grasp, but the thought of being separated from Anduin again brought her sorrow.
"And I will write to you whenever I get the opportunity." She muffled into his shoulder. "I will return victorious – you have my word."
"I do not doubt it." Anduin exhaled as he tightened the embrace. "Be safe and I will miss you, my champion."
Kathanna replied to Anduin with a kiss with utmost affection and gentleness. Anduin cupped her cheek as he tasted her lips, forbidding himself to even dare to think this might be their last kiss. It will not be. Kathanna will return and he will lovingly hold her in his arms once again.
As she parted her lips, Kathanna looked lovingly in his eyes as she traced his lips with her thumb, burning its curves in her memory. She continuing tracing her fingers down to his neck, going atop his right shoulder and arm until she reached his wrist, where she felt her protective jade bracelet which Kathanna has given to Anduin before her departure to the Broken Shore, when the Legion attacked for the first time.
"Return it to me when it is all over." Kathanna told him that day.
And Anduin intended to keep his promise.
"Stay safe, my king." Whispered Kathanna while her fingers were touching the jade pearls – as if she was praying to the bracelet to protect him.
Anduin nodded at her, without interrupting their eye-contact.
They sealed one more kiss goodbye before Anduin resuming with his preparations to return to Stormwind City.
Anduin and Thaldrin, together with General Hammond and a captain who Kathanna did not remember the name, left Dalaran City late in the afternoon.
Her farewell with her father was brief, much some simpler than her separation with Anduin. Kathanna felt at ease knowing her father will be by Anduin's side. Stormwind is a safe, well-defended city – both Anduin and Thaldrin were safe, for as long as Kathanna manages to find the imposter.
In a blink of an eye – through a mage portal - both Anduin and Thaldrin were gone. Kathanna felt as if she was sobering up. She knew she would often think of Anduin, but as much as she cared for him – she could not let Anduin take her mind away from her mission. Her priority now was to put everything else aside and focus on putting down the dreadlord that has the nerve of posing as an Alliance member.
In her letter to Eredes, Kathanna pleaded her friends to meet with her at the inn in the center of Dalaran. Once she changed out of her jade attire in her leather armor, she immediately headed to the inn, hoping that her friend and comrade-in-arms were already there.
In truth, Kathanna was quite nervous. Last, she has spoken to them both was then Anduin used their help to search for Kathanna after she learnt the truth about Thaldrin. Since then she hasn't seen or written any letters to them and now suddenly – she had to explain to a 7th Legion priest and a draenei paladin that she is working alongside some Horde members to discover a dreadlord that was infiltrating as a king's advisor and attempt to start a war between the factions amidst the Burning Legion invasion.
Merely the thought of having this discussion made Kathanna sweat.
To her luck, Eredes and Uldisian were sitting inside the inn at a table in the corner of the room. Kathanna instantly recognized the tall paladin in his large golden plate armor and Eredes' voluminous red hair. The moment she approached them, Eredes rose out of her chair and pulled Kathanna for an embrace. Uldisian proceeded to do the same. Kathanna was happy to reunite with her friends, and she wished for nothing more than to have some ale and discuss humorous topics; sadly however, this reunion was not due to a joyous occasion.
Kathanna took a seat in front of them and took in a deep breath. Both Uldisian and Eredes noticed Kathanna unsettled expression, they exchanged worried looks and looked back at their friend.
"I wish the reason for asking you to be here would be a good one… but I am afraid it is not." Sighed Kathanna. "And I am also afraid that I will be asking the two of you to aid me with a difficult task."
Anduin inhaled in deeply the air of Stormwind City. He found himself smiling at the sight of Stormwind Keep in front of him.
Dalaran was a breathtaking however, Stormwind City has been his home for his entire life and he found himself eager to be back home.
Together with his travel companions he walked up to the stairs to enter the keep, only to be greeted by a familiar figure at the entrance.
"Your Majesty." Bowed Wyll humbly. "Welcome home."
"It is good to see you, Wyll." Smiled Anduin, he warmly placed his hand on his servant's shoulder, squeezing it gently and careful as to not hurt the old man's bones.
Wyll extended his arm in a sign for Anduin to enter the keep, he followed the king inside the throne room, with Thaldrin and the rest slightly behind him.
Anduin found himself slipping the jade bracelet off his wrist, gently holding it in his hand as his fingers were brushing the pearls.
"She will be alright." Anduin reassured himself.
He stopped in front of his throne. Anduin has missed Stormwind City but he certainly did not miss the throne and its burdens. It even felt heavier without Kathanna by his side – but he knew he has made the right decision by allowing her to remain in Dalaran.
"Your Majesty?" Wyll's voice echoed in his ears. "Is there any trouble?"
Anduin lifted his eyes at the servant and shook his head.
"No… I am merely exhausted from such a long trip." He sighed with a smile on his face as he rubbed his eyes. "Please inform King Greymane that I will greet him tomorrow."
"Your Majesty." Intervened Thaldrin. "It may be not my place to say it… but do not hesitate to take a rest for the rest of the day. I myself can report everything to King Greymane regarding our progress on Broken Isles."
Anduin found himself chuckling at Thaldrin's commentary.
"You and your daughter are more alike than I thought." Said Anduin, recalling Kathanna often insisting on Anduin to cease from his work and relax. He gripped the bracelet tighter when Kathanna came to his mind. "But you have just returned from Val'sharah, you must be exhausted as well. Take a break; in the morning we will have a meeting with Genn." Ordered Anduin softly. "Tomorrow is a new day."
"Thank you, Your Majesty." Replied the worgen humbly. "Indeed, tomorrow is a new day."
"That… is a lot to take in, Kathy." Confessed Eredes after Kathanna concluded her story. "I mean… you say this blood elf is doing out of paying up her debt… but it sounds like she has found a perfect excuse to lure you in."
"Lure me in what? A trap? What could she gain out convincing me to travel to Broken Shore?" asked Kathanna. The priestess found herself dumbfound and could not give an answer.
"Do they have a high position among the Horde?" inquired Uldisian, unlike Eredes, he wasn't questioning Kathanna's faith in this mission. And frankly, he seemed quite eager to join in.
Much like Kathanna, Uldisian was a man of action, but due to his skills of battle tactic - the paladin was often sent on meetings and battle planning, rather than allowing him to fight on the front lines. It was only natural, that Uldisian wanted to accept this mission.
"I know that the orc is an arcane advisor to their Warchief." Replied Kathanna. "As for the blood elves… One of them is a paladin, who apparently is a part of the paladin order. Do you know a blood elf by the name Anathrian, Uldisian?"
"Anathrian?" repeated Uldisian, his blue eyes widen at hearing the name. "The Blood Knight? He is one of Lady Liadrin's champions."
"Can we trust him?" inquired Eredes but the draenei gave an unconvinced shrug.
"I have spoken to him a little, during the time Highlord Fordring still led the Argent Crusade. He is arrogant and has too much pride in him. But I have seen him fight – he masters the art of the sword well and the Light." Described the draenei, Kathanna sensed no hostility in Uldisian's tone. The draenei admitted to distrust the Horde, however as a paladin, he has learnt to work alongside the enemy faction as well.
"He also saved my life at the Broken Shore." Stated Kathanna. "I would have been cleaved by a felguard if not for him."
Despite everything she has heard – Eredes remained unconvinced. She sank in the chair with her arms crossed, blinking at Kathanna.
"I will admit… the biggest losses among our militia was SI:7 forces…" said Eredes weakly. "As if the Legion planned it."
Kathanna's eyes widen – that was a strong evidence. Perhaps the Burning Legion weren't merely cleaving foes left and right during the Broken Shore assault. Perhaps they not only intended to break the spirits of the enemy by killing their leaders but also get rid of their spies so it could become easier to infiltrate and attack from inside.
"The more reason to investigate this." Kathanna furrowed her eyebrows, curling her fingers into a fist.
The entire concept of forces of Azeroth falling into the Legion's trap, made her blood boil.
"It is still a risk to work with the Horde, Kathy." Eredes said, Kathanna sensed the priestess voice felt weary which brought concern to her.
"That is why, I called you two: because I did not want to wander by myself with three Horde soldiers." Kathanna insisted, she slammed her fist on the table in anger. She did not intend for the slam to be so powerful and loud, although she did not damage the table, Kathanna did receive an ugly glare from the innkeeper. "Worse comes to worse – the three of us can bring the Horde members down." She continued in a lower tone. "And I can trust you, our superiors cannot know we are working alongside the Horde, not yet anyway."
Once again, Uldisian and Eredes exchanged looks. It seemed the paladin was convinced and ready to aid Kathanna, Eredes understood that by the look in his eyes. However, Eredes had her doubts. Her green eyes kept on moving from Kathanna to Uldisian. They did not have to speak for Eredes to understand that they pleading for her to agree on this.
It is not that Eredes did not have faith in Kathanna – it was more of a shock that held Eredes back. The priestess was hoping to reunite with her friend and have chance to catch up with her, instead Kathanna has thrown frightening information and is pleading her and Uldisian to embark on what sounded like a suicide mission. This was certainly not what the superiors of 7th Legion meant when they ordered Eredes to resign from her duties.
But in the end – Eredes knew what had to be done.
"We will never turn our backs on you, Kathy." Smiled the priestess. "Nor on our king."
Kathanna sighed in relief and took Eredes' hand into hers. She smiled warmly at her friend. Uldisian smiled relieved at Eredes as well.
Just as Kathanna was about to tell them to head towards the attic where she has agreed to have discussion with the Horde, the innkeeper approached them with a tray of drinks at the table. All three of them looked confused at each other once the black-haired man began putting a mug of ale in front each on of them.
"We did not order this…" said Kathanna politely as she pointed at the mug of ale.
"Compliments of the Uncrowned." Muttered the human as he slipped a small piece of parchment in front of Kathanna. He took his leave before anyone else could address him.
Kathanna did not hesitate – she unfolded the half of the parchment. A message in red ink was written on it:
"We are at Krasus' Landing."
S."
Krasus' Landing was filled with so many travelers of various races, that if a gnome and a troll would be kissing – nobody would bat an eye.
Kathanna was forced to hold Eredes' hand to ensure she would not lose her friend through the crowd, meanwhile Eredes was holding Uldisian's hand.
The Alliance members walked hand in hand towards the edge of the circular platform, where Kathanna has spotted Serenia and the rest of her companions.
It seemed the Horde members had agreed with the Flight Master to receive mounts for their journey, as Anathrian was handed reins of a wyvern by one of the stablemasters.
"You finally brought your friends." Smirked Serenia. She was wearing a velvet and black leather armor, the metal portion of her gear seemed like gold. As usual she had her daggers sheathed on both sides of her waist and she had her shoulders wrapped in a long black cloak. A black backpack was visible on her back. Her brunette hair was tied in a large, high bun. And despite being obvious she was ready to depart on the mission to the Broken Shore – she still had her lips painted in her and black eyeshadow on her eyelids.
Anathrian wore the same golden plate armor as Kathanna saw him wearing in their previous encounter, red gems were decorated every piece of his armor and he wore a black tabard with the red symbol of the Blood Knights on his torso. His long silver hair, rested on his shoulders. The blood elf's hair was so shiny and silky, it actually made Kathanna jealous.
Unlike Anathrian, Gro'gak's hair was black and thick, its length was more than half of his back and he had a portion of it tied up in a high ponytail. He carried a long staff with skulls of various sizes and shapes dangling on its top, the orc covered his shoulders with a brown fur cloak but appeared to be bare-chested. His belt, had numerous potion bottles and small bags attached around the waist. The orc was wearing a long, brown kilt instead of trousers which Kathanna found very odd. His gear was completely impractical.
The Horde members had large satchels already packed on the saddle of the wyverns – indicating that they are ready for the departure on the Broken Shore.
"I see you are already prepared." Kathanna said "Shouldn't we plan a tactic before heading there?"
"We can sort everything out once we're on the Broken Shore." Stated Serenia. "The longer we delay this mission, the further the Legion moves on with their plan."
"So, what is this?" intervened Eredes. "We are supposed to merely hop on your wyverns just like that? No introductions whatsoever?" bitterness was sensed in her tone, but it did not affect Serenia nor any other Horde members.
"I assumed Kathanna has already told you everything. But fine…" sighed Serenia and shrugged. "This is Gro'gak, and that is my cousin Anathrian." She said while pointed at each of the person she presented, then the blood elf pressed her ivory palm on her chest. "And I'm Serenia. And we are ready to work together with you to stop the Burning Legion from starting another war between our people." The blood elf gave a taunting smile once she finished her sentence. Eredes sighed and looked at Kathanna, distrust was visible in her eyes.
"Trust me." Mouthed Kathanna to her friend. Eredes exhaled in defeat, she had only two options here – either go home by herself or stand by her decision to aid Kathanna on this mission – it was too late to attempt to convince either Kathanna or Uldisian to back down from this.
"We have packed enough provisions for the six of us." Added Anathrian, who was leaning against the wall. "We will fly towards the north of the Broken Shore and seek shelter in a ruined temple first. Then we can proceed with exploring the area once we analyzed how safe it is."
Kathanna turned to Uldisian and Eredes one more time. Both of them gave them a nod of approval – in that moment – Kathanna found herself praying to the Light that she did not make a mistake in putting her trust in the Horde and this insane mission. While telling herself, in her mind, that she is doing for Anduin's safety, she nodded at Serenia.
"Very well." Said the monk with confident.
Once again, a sly smile appeared on Serenia's slip.
"Well then –" said Serenia as she eyed every single member of this new team. "Everyone ready for a trip to the Broken Shore?"