Vereesa point of view:
Kingdom of Quelthalas: Silvermoon
Silvermoon, if there was a time when the prime jewel of her kind could actually outshine the brightness of the sun they all adored and more, it was without a shroud of a doubt during the day of the Foundation. Though that did not mean that she was had to like every aspect of it….
Its usual crowded streets now stood full to the brim, to the point they looked more like fish in a barrel. People of all ages and classes trying to make their way around without bumping with one another as they were under the bright light of countless flare spells, floating aimlessly in the air, each one bearing a different colour to give a more festive mood to their surrounding's.
Friends, families and acquaintances meeting once again unanimously. Conversing happily about what the future foresaw of their lives while they drank to their hearts content. The melodies of countless street musicians playing their instruments to the passing crowds and the soft explosions that lingered over their heads when their explosive payloads from the fire works became.
Though meant in the first place to celebrate the creation of the core of their city when their forefathers arrived in the region after the long perils they had to go through from their exile from the mysterious lands of Kalimdor and the violent natives of the land, the pass of time had slowly change it. Now a moment in time to celebrate to the point the success of the harvesting the crops of the season mixed with the military victory that put an end to the second war, which ironically had ended the same day.
Merchants stood in position, ready to sell their more than varied products, the sound of their voices managing to peer through the multitude as they made known their existence to half the city. The single women wore their hair down, showing their desire to spend a night of passion with someone brave enough.
Vereesa had the nagging suspicion that more than one bastard would be born from that night, though to be honest, that wasn't the thing that was nagging her at the time. She gave a tired sigh, while she rubbed her left arm in exasperation.
But perhaps more to quell a feeling threatening to resurface….
At first she thought that the squares around the Walk of Elders would be at least…..modestly full, instead she was met with a massive wave of people coming from various directions, it also did not help the presence of a few shops that their owners had settle around in an effort to make extra cash from the onlookers, dragging the attention of many, hindering even further the crossways. If that was possible.
She left a sigh, this will not do, for all things considered, Lia and company may be just around the corner but she would be non the wiser. She needed to find the high ground.
Carefully she made her way out of there, trying not to step on anyone's toes as she did as well as not trip herself over, Beloree knew that those high heels were already proving to be a nuisance, and the night was just getting started. Slowly, and with some effort she managed to break her way towards one of the few elevations situated in the Walk. Housed in her bodice, a homemade dagger was digging into her skin with every step she took.
For emergencies, of course…..
She prayed she didn't have to used it tonight though.
As she walked through the crowd, she felt something was wrong, she turned around, looking for an answer to that strange feeling that had gotten stuck in her stomach. It would have been for naught had she not caught a glimpse of a certain figure on the distance.
A small, thin girl stood still a few meters away from her, clothed in an old red ragged cape that hide most of her body from view, with only her long blonde hair been visible as it came out from the top, in a large pony tail. Though most of her face remained obscure by that hood she had a strange feeling crawling inside her, it felt…..wrong, no...strange. As if her mind could not admit that such girl could be actually there.
Then it happened, the girl rose her head at her, her lips warped in a thin line. It may have been nothing but a few mere seconds, but it felt like hours when both of their eyes met as she analysed every part of her face. But by the time she blinked, she lost sight of her.
She tried to search for her, find wherever she had disappeared but to no avail as she failed to navigate through the wave of bodies pressing her from all sides. By the time she reached her last known location she had evaporated like a puff of smoke.
How could someone dressed like a walking tomato be so damn hard to find? She bristled in annoyance, true that she was besiege by all sides by bystanders….but at least she should had found some modicum of clue of her whereabouts. Her brooding was short lived when a different question barged inside her head.
Who was her? She could swore she had never met her in her life...yet there had been a feeling of deja vu when their eyes had met, as if that had happened before, long ago. How strange…
Lost in her thoughts she did not see the man she was approaching to until it was too late.
``W-what! Who dares!´´ Exclaimed a man with outrage, his face hidden by an expensive scarlet plate of armour, forged with delicate trims of golden and ruby's. The Royal emblem embedded on his chest and cape told her whose master commanded this man.
``Ah...my apologies, I was not paying attention sir...´´
``It was nothing, miss´´ Spoke out the guard, his voice sounding unsure as his eyes lingered a lot more than she would have liked on her chest.
Well, another disaster averted
``Then I will be on my-´´ Extending his hand forward, yet instead of going up for a formal salute it instead went way forward, the cold steel that made of his gauntlets grasping her bare shoulder.
``But perhaps we could have a talk….in a more private place, this streets can be rather dangerous at night….´´ She immediately spotted the look of smugness creeping over his features as he finally seemed to regain his confidence.
I guess not….. She lamented as she fought down the urge to slap her forehead in dismay, she and her big mouth...why did she attract only the weirdos?
"Is that a question at this point…..?"
She glared at him, her brows furrowed while one of her fist tightened, clearly not amused by his lack of tact or thought. To her chagrin the man was either a fool or too lost on his own little world as he did not notice how the people around them started to take a few steps back.
``I think I will pass´´ She replied curtly, hoping that would be enough before pulling away her shoulder from his grasp.
It did not work.
``I think not...´´ He replied this time far more harshly, graving this time her left arm, applying some pressure on her wrist. His calm facade now gone, showing off his ugly underbelly as his face started taking a profound shade of red that would combine sweetly with his cape. ``Its not wise to fight against a royal guard miss...´´ He cackled dangerously.
``Its not wise to mess with me either...´´ She replied coldly, almost robotically as she met his wrathful glare.
``What was that!?´´ He barked furiously, pulling her hard, just right towards his chest. She could already feel the soreness where his grip was the strongest, but that did not deter her.
``I thought your kin were suppose to be the wise guys….., guess standards have fallen. Tell me...daddy bough your place up there?´´ She said softly, she fought back the urge to grin at those rage brimming eyes as they bared down on her.
Completely disregarding anything else.
``You bitch! We can do this the easy way or t-´´ Whatever he was about to say comes to a halt when he felt the cold kiss of steel around his throat. His eyes opening wide to the point that she thought they would fall down when noticed a small blade that had made its way through the empty spot between his gorget and his lower jaw.
``Do you know how easily a full armoured warrior can be knock down if one hits a precise place? How it all takes one good swing and they crumble like puppets which strings have been cut loose? She stated calmly, with the same passion as if she were to speak about the weather.
``L-lady...please drop down that thing, you could cut those delicate hands of yours...´´ He muttered with the same flippant attitude than before, though a bit more shaken. Perhaps trying to not show his fear and shock of the situation...or he did not believe she would carry on.
In that case she was more than happy to prove him wrong.
``I could shave a spiders arse if I wanted to with this blade or…..I could nick this artery, and once its nicked...I doubt there is a single priest in the near vicinity to save your wretched skin in time...´´ She whispered softly at his ear while she pressed the knife further, the tip managing to make a minuscule drop of blood that soon fell down to the ground below.
``Y-you cant do that! Do you know who I am!?´´
A nobody? A failure of a man? A horny dog who cant keep it down? There were a myriad of thoughts going through her mind, each one more hurtful than the latter.
"Go….slay him right where he stands, I want to see him bleed"
"All that armour and they don't have anything to cover those feeble necks of theirs….amusing really"
``Oh but I can, after all...what is the life of a toy soldier compared with a noble?´´ She found exhilarating the way his body went rigid when she brought the blade down, the tip still making contact with his skin, which meant a slow yet painful experience for the man.
``Y-you are mad!´´
"It would be a surprise if you weren't, though would wouldn't? No one comes unscratched from this mad house we call life after all…."
``What? Never been at the mercy of a girl?´´ She muttered more to herself than him, she then pulls him by the ear with her now free hand, twisting it. She continued for a few seconds, uncaring of his pathetic cries before she brought him to his eye sight. `` Touch me again, and the last thing you shall experience in this life its how you drown in a puddle of your own blood while the people around you just watches. Is that understood?
He nods furiously.
``Good, now scatter´´ She stated coldly, not even a fragment of mercy on her tone.
It seemed that she did not need to tell him twice as the man quickly made his way through the crowd, sending to the ground those that did not move in time in his haste. When his figure disappeared she looked around her, glaring at the small group of observers that had formed thanks to the whole mess. When they realized they had been caught they quickly averted her gaze and walked away.
She scoffed Cowards…the lot of them They should had helped her when they saw the idiot throw herself at her, instead they had decided to look as if it was some kind of expectable. She should be angry, angry at them for their inaction…..she would in her right to do so.
Yet she thought it a futile effort, for better of for worse her people would rather stick to their own problems than aid another. She was lucky that none would call for the law enforcement, not having to worry about them being after her, would probably be the best thing she could get.
``Nothing better than a good start...eh?´´ She muttered to herself before she slipped the dagger back inside from where she had retrieve it. There was no point on alarming the populace with them spotting a white haired girl armed with a knife on the streets.
After that, her way towards her goal went rather uneventful, finally she stood over what once was a small plateau, an artificial construction of the arcane from where she could see the zone that she had previously transited.
``Captain! Over here!´´ Someone yelled vividly, though it was partially dulled by the crowd.
Slowly she tilted her head to the left, her eyes trying to spot the owner of said voice though such thing was no easy task with the people going about their merry way around her. Nonetheless the search did not took long when she finally realised where, or better said who she had to look for.
Ten meters away from her, waving her arms frantically to the sides, making gestures at her stood a young girl, probably in her late four hundreds. She was wearing a one piece white long dress with a few different shades of grey attached to the sides, it covered most of her body, leaving only her arms and shoulders exposed. Bright flowers placed in her hair as some kind of floral gadgets to put some colour to her cloth as she took notice that she was not wearing any kind of bracelet or gem to complement.
A smile slowly formed around her lips as she recognise who it was.
``Cyndia, its good to see you´´ She greeted the younger woman with a polite nod, quickly shortening the distance between the two before she engulfed her with a hug. Cyndia responded in kind a few seconds later as she felt the heat of those arms close on her back. Even though she had seem her not that long ago when in company of Liadrian a few days ago that did not meant that she had not wished to see her as soon as possible. She had a soft smell of mint.
``Good to see you to captain, with this many people I had my doubts if I could find someone, a rather crowed night isn't it?´´ She said as she separated herself from her.
``That would be an overgarment….one would think that with the Magisters plan to place a ten gold coins fee for anyone who wished to enter the city to partake the festivities as close as possible with the king the place would be a lot less of a crowd…..I guess I was wrong´´
``It happens even to the best of us, I only hope that we can avoid any problems, with these many peoples problems can do nothing but increase, more when we reach the dead of the night´´ She said softly, eyeing a small group of elf's chatting rather loudly just next to the fountain. Bottles already half way down on their hands. ``Each time they start more younger…..´´ She muttered in dismay.
The way she said those words felt rather ominous, but she resolved to avoid that topic for the moment, instead deciding to tap at her shoulder to pull her back to herself.
``Well, then its good that you found me, and please, just Vereesa. All that captain crap its way too formal for this event, wouldn't you agree?´´
``Of course cap- I mean miss Vereesa´´ She corrected herself in a heart beat. Her ears deflated a bit, pressed against her head while she chewed her lips for a few seconds. She would had preferred if she had just call her by her name, well... it would have to do.
``So….you were looking for me or were just as lost as me?´´
Cyndia turns her head to the side, a look of puzzlement warped in her face before her eyes widen when she realized what she had said. ``The prior actually, I thought that if I looked around I would find someone from our merry band….to not much success at first, until you came along that is...´´
``I see...so you know where we will find them? ´´
``Of course, I just came out from there, though I arrive a bit earlier with my companion we are only two at the moment. It will be my pleasure to guide you´´
``Then what are we waiting for? Lead the way´´
The two of them walked away, leaving the of the square as they marched through the ever increasing crowd on the streets, when she took notice of the building standing before them.
``Is this the place? She asked though more to herself than someone else. Cyndia gave her a backwards glance, nodding at her.
``It is…...´´
It wasn't what she was expecting, in fact it was far modest than she would have thought for a bar-restaurant on the very streets of the capital. A two stores high building clamped by red blue bricks, a set of tables placed outside for costumers. At least it was far less crowded than anywhere else, and that she appreciated.
It did not took long before they were greeted by a well known voice once they entered inside.
``Miss Liadrin, look who I found by...´´ Exclaimed Cyndia with barely held enthusiasm, drawing the attention of the red head towards them while she pointed her finger at her.
``What a rare catch….I did not thought you would come Vere´´ Said Liadrin as she took a few steps towards then, a grin forming around her lips.
``Well, don't act so surprise, I did tell you that I would attend, didn't I? She replied with another grin to boot.
``Yes you did….´´ She replied with a smirk before she switched her attention towards the other girl. ``Thanks Cyndia, for leading her here, what I could do without you?
``It was my pleasure, miss Liadrin….´´
She found her near a booth, sitting over a rather tall barstool, her exposed back directed at them while one of her fingers caressed the edge of a coup. There was only one word to describe her.
She looked divine.
``By the light Lia, you look gorgeous. Stunning even! With those looks one would never believe that you are a high member of the church. How do you manage?´´
``Are you saying that priests of the light have to be ugly and old?´´ Came her friend with a half bothered half amused tone, those scarlet browns frowning at her while she tilted her head to the left.
``Only the standard ones..´´ She replied, a wild grin plastered all over her face, as she grasped softly her friends bare shoulder.
For a few seconds she found herself besiege by those bright blue eyes that looked at her with a mix of annoyance and amusement before her features soften lightly, yet a malicious glint appeared on her eyes. Liadrin pressed against her herself, grasping her shoulders as she brought those blue soft lips around her ear.
``After all that time together, you should know that I am anything but standard….´´ She whispered softly.
``M-mis Liadrin?´´ Came the flustered voice of the other woman who was looking at them, taken back by it.
``I-I see...´´ She muttered with struggle as she took a step back from her, looking for a bit of personal space to place between her and the priestess who by now was wearing a shit eating grin in that sharp face of hers. It annoyed her, but she could not fault her friends wishes to play. For someone who most of the time preferred to stay at the sidelines, she really had some moves..
``Oh Vere, Cyndia...You two are too easy….´´ She laughed, pressing a hand around her lips to try to suppress it, but failing. Hard.
``Sometimes I forget that under all that pious pretence you are sly as a fox, my friend´´ She said a bit annoyed.
``Oh please stop, you are embarrassing me´´ Laughed Liadrin as she rubbed her neck, not an inch of remorse on those damned cat like features.
``That wasn't a compliment´´ She said sternly, pinching the bridge of her nose for a few seconds, trying her best to held herself back. A futile effort on its own as a few seconds later she as well broke down in laughs, leaving only Cyndia as possibly the last remaining sane person in the group. Looking at both at them like they had grown another head above their shoulders, but not yet daring to intrude on it.
She was always such polite little thing….
It was only after she managed to find the strength to keep herself back together that their laugher finally died out. ``By Beloree….it feels like an eternity since the last time we acted like fools...´´ She muttered, a hand pressing her chest which now hurt for the effort.
``Oh Vere we are all fools, every single day...´´
``You sound like an old wife….growing old in your age, Lia? When should we expect the litters in your household?´´
``Oh please, like you are one to talk, bashing away all the boys and girls that dare approach you…, what? Afraid to meet someone else?´´
``Are you….are you actually a pair? Like..together... together?´´ Came the meek voice of Cyndia, the poor girl had gone unnoticed by the two of them for a while now. Thankful her words managed to brought them back to reality, though much to the blonds distress the two of them lock eyes with the fidgeting ranger.
``Of course not! / Why do you ask!?´´ Exclaimed the two of them at the same time in the heat of the moment, earning another confuse yet relief glare from Cyndia in the process.
Though before they could continue in that direction another thing halt them.
``Well well….what do we have here, the two ladies of the hour´´ Came a joyful voice from behind them, loud enough to be heard over the constant voices of the people around them. Her heart beated slightly faster while a grin started to form around her lips. She knew to who it belonged, how could she not when she had heard it thousands of times.
There, just a few feet away from them stood both Kalira and Velonaraa. The way the two of them show up had not surprised her in the slightest.
Kalira had decided to come with a blue red dress that matched her personality. it had an opening in the middle, allowing, it also gave a clear view to those toned legs. Her curly blonde hair had been set loose, allowing for the wind to brush it each time it, giving a sensation of wildness coming from her as she approached them at a quick pace, waving her arms. Speaking of them, they were covered from her elbows to the tip of her fingers. She could not avoid feeling a bit of unease at their sight, a faint smell of smoke and flesh resonating inside her for a moment.
She knew what laid behind those soft layers of cloth, what the fire had almost taken away.
Unlike her companion, Velonaraa stood very still and frigid, her arms crossed behind her back. She wasn't wearing a dress but rather a set of long black pants and a tight sleeveless green jacket with a white under shirt. Her hair had been cut short, just above her shoulders.
It took her some time to realize that the two of them had walked inside the bar, holding hands.
``Kali! Velonaraa! It's so good to see you, we were wondering if you would show up at all….´´
``And why on Azeroth would we miss this party!? The music, the food, hell even the people! Have you any idea how much I have waited to get the gang all aback together!? No, don't answer that, it would ruin my immersion...´´
``It seems that someone is excited tonight´´ She muttered with a slight sense of surprise.
``That would be to put it lightly, Vere...´´ Mused Liadrian, her eyes roaming the bodies of the new comers as she took another sip from her glass. ``How are you two faring the festivities?´´
``Its certainly…...a nice change from our daily routine...no arrows or insults sent our way for once´´ Replied Velonaraa coldly yet her words held no true animosity against neither of them, it felt more like a statement of a series of facts.
A feeling of bitterness and pity crawled through her as she understood where her fellow ranger was coming from. War or not, those who held positions of power never liked to be considered, especially towards those they considered inferior. Peace times only making them grow bitter and resentful. A clear example could be seem in both the laws and created by those scoundrel.
An unfair decision, made even more apparent of its by the kings unwillingness to listen to anyone but his fellow friends.
What a world do we live on… She lamented before she gave Velonaraa a soft pad in her shoulder, it wasn't much but it earned her a small nod of appreciation from the taller woman in the process.
``Quite so…, us having a good time with friends, not having to do paperwork or pay attention to Lord frown himself. You know….like a party´´
``Everyday with you its a party, Kal´´ Velonaraa replied dryly, almost apathetic as she shook her head. It looked like they had these kind of conversation many times `` I simply don't know how you can have energy for more….´´
``What can I say, you cant keep a good elf down, my dear.´´ Replied Kalira with condescend, flipping her hair to the side as she smiled at her friend.
Velonaraa sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. ``Fair enough….´´
``Hmpf! I think that you missed me, lieutenant Kalira, though that should had been predictable...´´ Came of Cyndia annoyed.
``Oh..Ah! I did not saw you over there Cyndia´´
``Right…..like one could not spot someone just next to them´´
``You would be surprised by how her mind works, Cyndia´´ She said, earning a confused glare from the woman but before she could ask back Kalira stood between the two.
``Oh Vere….how cold you are with poor little old me...´´
``Right….you said the same thing years ago..´´
``Still upset about that!? Why so? Its just that their presence outshines yours my dear, it also doesn't help that plain white dress. What were you thinking!? This shades of grey and white wont do for a party, and even less for one to be have with Friends! I mean….for Belorees sake girl, we are not at a temple!´´
``I-I didn't had anything better alright! I was busy and the others were ragged or old...and….and..´´
``Don't worry Cyndia, you look really nice. Its not what that makes then shine ´´
``Thank you, Liadrin….that means a lot´´ Muttered shyly the girl, both index fingers fidgeting with one another as she looked away from the red head.
``It was nothing, really´´ Came out the the red head, a simple smile warping around her lips before she placed her hand over the blond girls shoulder, earning a small and faint squeak from her. She could not avoid the grin forming around her lips as she observed the way Cyndia started a flee and fight response only by Lia´s gentle touch.
Who could have thought those would mutter such an adorable sound.
``No! No! How greedy of you Priestess, first our dear captain and now our fellow rangers...when will your conquest stop?´´ Whined Kalira, waving her arms around like some kind of windmill, before placing one of her hands over her chest, just right where her heart would be while she made the motion as if she was fainting.
Now I remember why I never allowed myself to be in the same room with her and my sister She though with a droplet of sweat falling down her forehead as she witnessed the play before her. The two were such drama queens.
`` Kali, please…..could you try to keep it down? People are looking at us´´ She said hastily in a whisper, embarrassment creeping around the corners of her ears as her eyes switched rapidly from one person to another, finding those that were observing them from the distance. Whispering to themselves.
``Oh please Vere, you know you cant ask me that…..besides, let them look. Its not like we are doing something fishy like our pious priestess...´´ She said with confidence, a sly grin forming around her lips as she looked back at Liadrin.
``I don't think I like what you are insinuating, Kalira´´
``Why? Did it struck at ner-outch! Velo!? Why?´´ Exclaimed Kalira in pain, her sentence cut short by her companion who had smacked her head lightly with her knuckles. The blonde woman started rubbing the sore spot with her hands, she sent her a glare filled with reprehension yet to her chagrin she was fully ignore by Velonaraa. The rest opted to observe the event, clear amusement on their features.
``I apologize for her, Liadrin. Is just that today she is….. a bit hyperactive´´ Said Velonaraa, slowly. Her words made Kalira pout, a crimson shade starting to take place on her cheeks. Cyndia was smiling like it was the best thing she had ever seem while Liadrin merely toyed with her hair, a brow raised slightly.
Vereesa fought back the urge to laugh at her friends chosen words. That would be an over statement…
``Its okay Velonaraa, I know that she did not meant wrong…, after all..she would be herself if we were to demand her to be strict and taciturn like you dear´´ She said, Velonara merely shrugged.
``Oh? Everyone's already here? You girls surely did not waste time in showing up for people wearing high heels….´´ Came a voice from behind, by all accounts it should had been obstructed by the noise already present around them, but there was no way they would miss that timbre in that voice.
None of them needed to turn around to know to who it belonged, yet they all did as they wanted to see her, wanted to find out the way she would show up. They all were for a surprise, that's for sure, though perhaps not the one they were expecting.
One never knew what lady Moon had in her mind, not that she had thought it fitting to share her plans with her.
``What? Did you already forgot about me?´´ She said as she pressed one of her arms over her hips.
She did not know when she had started to hold her breath when she sighed in relief. Finally Sylvanas had deigned herself to arrive, yet whatever words were starting to form behind her lips were left unattended as Kalira shoved her aside, clearly approaching her sister.
Really? Did you have to do that?
``Eh….nooo….? I mean, hmpf...pardon me for this, but its clear as day that it was you that was late, General´´ Came out Kalira.
``Is that so…?´´ Replied her sister softly yet with that hint of stern that spoke of untold punishment, eyeing dangerously the who took a step back for precaution, before her eyes set on the companion behind her.
``What say you, Velonaraa? Did I arrive late?´´
``No you did not, general, your presence honour us, as always….´´ She replied drily while she took a bored look at her nails.
A smile warped around her sisters lips. ``See Kalira, I never arrive late´´
``Oh come on! That's cheating! Lia! Tell me that she cant do that!´´
``Why are you asking me?´´ The red head asked dumbfounded by the sudden switch of attention though she tried not to make it shown.
``Because you are suppose to have a light bulb that tells you everything, you know, priest things and all...´´ She said pointing at her head with both her thumbs.
``A what!?´´ Asked the red headed priest in puzzlement.
``Oh for lights sake…..´´ Muttered Vereesa in dismay, placing a hand in her forehead as she tried to make tails of the nonsense taking place. ``Alright everyone, leaving aside who did or did not arrive on time, or what Kal is actually trying to say….. there are matters far more important to discuss at the moment´´
This seemed to placate everyone, for now at least as they looked at one another in silence.
It was then that her sister decided to intervene again ``Such us…..? ´´
``Such us why you are dressed like that! She exclaimed, pointing her finger at her. ``Yes, You. I can still not believe that you decided to wear your Fastrider outfit instead of a dress!´´ she exclaimed, pointing at her sister who started looking around to find if something was wrong with her outfit.
`` I mean, even Velonaraa tried to come….with something else ´´ The silent ranger gave her a nod though she decided not to say anything of notice.
Sylvanas brows widen a bit, a look of amusement set on her eyes as she crossed her arms. ``Why are you pointing me out, Little Moon? Velonaraa is also not wearing a dress...´´
``Because of the two you promised me to come with something informal, not your battle regalia…...´´
``Fair enough…..if you want to know then blame politics my dear sister, you how they always are. I was asked by the king himself to prepare the security measures for the celebration, and make sure that his friends do not accidentally drown with their own drinks. You would be surprise how easy is for such to find themselves coughing on the floor, resting for eternity…..you know, the usual noble shenanigans….´´ She said calmly, waving her hand in a placating manner.
``Well….its not that surprising when one have been dealing with them for years, that doesn't make it less unpleasant´´ She replied, though this time more weakly.
``I get what you mean Vere, yet it. Perhaps there is a….far more troubling matter, is it not? Syl?´´ Spoke out Liadrin.
``It seems you have not lost your wit with the drinks, Lia´´
``Not yet…..´´
``So something important came out….and you did not though reasonable to tell me if not us?´´ She quickly butt into the conversation, she would have felt sorry for the way she made her sister flinch at the unjust implications of her words.
But there were no others words she could find to express her disappointment.
``Oh come on Cyndia, you cant believe that? This was the day...The day´´
``Its the most logical thing, Kalira. Think about it, Syl never does something half way nor she acts without reason….most of the time.´´ She added the last part with some just as her sister was about to nod at her, making her roll her eyes in contempt.
``Perhaps, but it also could be something else...´´ Muttered Kalira, the blond ranger moving away from the brunette as she spoke.
``Like wh- ´´ Lias voice trails off weakly, leaving way to a short awkward silence. A baffled look on her face before it gave way to a shocking realization that only she had seemed to notice.
``By the Light don't dare finish that line of thought...´´ She exclaimed with haste, it was then that everyone caught a small glimpse of the wicked grin plastered over the younger rangers lips.
Oh no… this is not good…. All around her she could spot the looks of barely held amusement or annoyance of everyone else about what dread was about to be cook out from the oven of spontaneous madness that stood before them.
With Kalira one never knew.
And she had tried….Beloree knew she had.
``Too late! Ready or not here I go!´´ She said with abundant enthusiasm before she calmly leaned against the counter of the bar, a wide smile on her lips. ``You see...all this could be easily explained as the actions of certain faceless gods with megalomaniacal tendencies trying to write our stories from start to finish with some obscure plan between their hands. In which messing with a friends party plan seems to be the most important aspect of their eon long coming plan…... ´´
``And there will be some bald ass dude who likes to speak in riddles and wear even more weird tattoos all over his body who will try to replace it with a vision of bodybuilders...see? Everything is coming together….´´
For a moment everyone remained quiet, allowing for the words to stew in their mind as they could only gaze at their friends prideful smirk for what she assumed was a ground breaking hypothesis.
Then all hell broke lose…..
``What? Just what the hell I have just listened?´´ She could not help but ask, still baffled by it.
``Miss Kalira...are you drunk? Already?´´
``Don't mind her Cyndia, this is her sober state….just wait and see what she can do with five bottles….´´ Muttered Lia, the red head covering with one hand her mouth, clearly trying to quell done the urge to laugh.
``I think I would rather not...´´
``Still, you have to admit that this one is new low...at least better than her..dad jokes´´ Said Sylvanas.
``Urght, why did you had to remind me….´´ Muttered Lia under her breath.
``Hey! There is nothing wrong with my humour, is you jerks who can get a laugh here and then. Always so stiff, no wonder you are still single´´
`` Leaving aside my...friends more than worrisome and mad ideas of conspiracy theories…. its rather strange what happened, wouldn't you say?´´ Said Velonaraa as she stood a bit for straighter from where she stood, her eyes swiping the room.
``What do you mean by strange?´´ Asked Liadrin.
``I mean no disrespect General, but couldn't someone else had done the same? Its true that there is always need for security, more now that there is such a large of people walking around….yet that is the duty of soldiers, not Generals´´
Sylvanas chuckled, a laugh that was bitter and devoid of its mirth or joy. She had seem that look before. A cold shiver ran through her spine, her arm looking for something to grasp and held herself. She did not know when but she took notice that the girls were looking at her sister with mirrored expressions of worry.
``Rightfully said lieutenant, that I cant dispute with you or anyone else….. yet orders are orders, whether we like them or not we still have to see them through, in a way.
``I see…that's….unfortunate´´
``Well, I did said that I had to guard the festivities….. but no one said where should I do that...´´
``So you are gonna say that you were guarding this bar? Neat….its obvious why you are the General of our merry band´´ Came out Kalira as she finished a bottle of wine and then smash it against a wall. ``Another one!´´
Gods...why does she have to do that…?
``There are worse places to be, I guess...´´ Finished Velonaraa, earning a pad of appreciation on the back from Kalira.
``Exactly, one never knows when they will have to act in the line of duty, where better to wait for chaos than a bar?´´
``I see...though didn't his majesty order that no one would be allowed to bring weapons to the celebrations?´´
``That was mostly his magister friends, who we all know have a thing to look for trouble with us, still problems tend to arise either way and we will still need to protect the people during the time all this festivities lasts….. ´´
``That's kind of grim, for a day of celebration I mean´´
`` Well, you know that there is always an arsehole wishing to fuck things over….more with those pitiful magisters and those sticks up their arses. Besides its kind of difficult to patrol with high heels, I am sure you will understand Liadrin´´
``Urght….I suppose that is better than nothing, at least you are one of the few that can look good with anything….´´
``You suppose well, Priestess…. and you don't look bad on that scarlet outfit either. They way it hugs your body, its marvellous. Though I have to say, I don't recognise the style…..From that tailor friend of yours? Am I right?´´
``Quite so, was it so obvious?´´ A small hint of surprise in her voice.
``Lets say that I have….an eye for things´´
``So what we should do before Kal sets this place on fire?´´ She said softly, nodding towards the named menace.
``Hey! I heard that!´´
``You were suppose to….´´ She snickered, earning a pout from the woman.
``Haha...very funny, anyway….why not ask about the incurring romances we may be looking forward?´´
``We are a bit old to ask about such things….wouldn't you say?´´
``Now that's the shyness speaking, Lia. Don't you have anything good to share with us?´´ Said kalira as she leaned against the red heads shoulder, muttering the words softly against her ear. Though if it troubled the red head priest it did not shown as she softly pushed the troublemaker aside.
``Not that would actually matter´´
``Spoil sort…, you Goldilocks?´´
``Its Cyndia to you, Kalira and….no, there is..no one I am going with´´
``Not yet, eh?´´
``I-I did not say that!´´
``Don't worry, with aunty Kalira´s help we will get bring to reality your wet dream ´´
``Please don't...´´
``How about you and Nathanos, boss…...? The two of you have been rather close with one another for a while…, no?´´ Asked Liadrin softly. At the mention of those words everyone turned around to meet Sylvanas. All of them.
``Nathanos and I…? Well, there is not much to talk about to be honest´´ She said with a huff, placing one of her hands around her hips. ``Our relation is strictly professional, you all know its not allowed fraternization between commander and those commanded. It only causes problems. No need to give those weasels more ammunition for their crusades..´´
``Oh come on, there has to be much more than a mere "there is not much" Came Liadrin on the spot with clear disappointment in her eyes, carefully placing the now empty cup on the table before meeting her sisters an-mused glare.
``We are between friends, surely you can share something more that just that…., better than allowing us to imagine it I assure you´´
``I didn't take you for one to gossip Lia, what would Lorthemar said when he realized his fair maiden has become in such a cheeky girl?´´ Said Sylvanas with that characteristic smile of hers, earning a glare from the red head that would had scared anyone in their line of sight, but not her sister.
``Really Sylvanas? That's your defence? Me being meddlesome? We better not have a war in the horizon or we would be sorely fuck´´
``Now you are just being vulgar…..´´
Liadrin chuckled ``And you are being an ass, though truth be told, you have always being one´´ She replied with a grin, taking a step closer to Sylvanas, holding out her gaze at her. For a moment she saw a faint flicker of gold from the corners of her eyes, but that was lost as she turn her head to the side to meet the sound of someone else coughing.
``My oh my...Who would had thought that our dear and sweet priestess would be this crude? ´´
``Hush you Kal…..you are the last people to say that to me, especially after what happen at the last Winterveils gala...´´
``T-that was one time!´´ She stammered in outrage, earning a dry chuckled from Velonaraa, increasing the embarrassment of the lieutenant.
``And to your information, general. When you are a healer people tend to tell you all kinds of things even if you don't really care what they are saying, it gets a bit tiring from time to time but sometimes you heard a few interesting things´´ Said the red headed priest with a mix of both fatigue and laugher in her tone. ``And about Lorthemar...I don't really care what he thinks, I do what I want with my live even if he thinks the other way´´
``I see, then I will send my condolences to him, the poor does not know how doomed he truly is...´´
``Hush you now, Sylvanas. Do you always need to rifled up everyone's feathers?´´ She whined, a strange mix of outrage and embarrassment coming out together.
A wicked grin formed around her sisters lips. ``Always….´´
Everyone laughed at that.
``So...about Nathanos?´´
``What about him?´´ Replied Sylvanas slightly more sharply than normal, a detail that was not unnoticed by the rest who to her sisters annoyance grew even more interested in whatever story lay behind.
``Being defensive now are we, sis?´´ She laughed. Though she was, . It also was the same man who had .
``What terrible accusation, and from my own sister nonetheless, I expected more from you, Little Moon´´
``A shame, isn't it Lady Moon? If only someone had not come here ready for war…...´´
```You are not gonna live me this one down for a while, aren't you?´´ She sighed, rubbing her head in frustration.
``Nop….´´
``Girls, girls..focus! Leave that girly thing outside and return to the real meat! Is it true what they said boss? Did you really had to snatch him from his crib?´´
``What? No! In human years Nathanos was completely legal, who said anything about that!?´´ Exclaimed Sylvanas completely flustered, her cheeks taking a soft shade of red.
``Well….lets say that someone did not take a liking to him´´ Said Velonaraa, her arms crossed below her chest.
``That would be an overstatement. Tell me one person who wasn't thrilled with our beloved grumpy Lord when he arrived at the corp? Not that I have anything against the man, mam…..but as much as we...tolerate him, his attitude does leave something to be desired...´´
``Non taken, though I admit that things could be better you must understand that sometimes its necessary to bend the rules if we are to find and put to use good talent, not all humans are useless with a bow you know...?´´
``I do agree with that sentiment, general…..but lets say that its an opinion not greatly shared by mostly the high echelons of the corp...or the nation´´
``Not this again...´´
``You asked….if the answer does not satisfy you is not really our fault´´
``And here I though that I could count with you to agree with everything I said….´´
``You taught us better, mam….´´ Was Velo´s simple response, a timid smirk on her lips.
``I have to admit that this is the first time I have heard you speak for so long Velo...you should do so more, it kind of softens that cold aura around you´´
``…...´´
``See Cyndia, you jinx it! Now I will never hear my beloved´s voice…..´´
``But I didn't say anything!?´´
``To answer your question lieutenant, it really didn't work out in the end so lets leave it at that...´´ Was Sylvanas simple answer as she tugged a loose strand of her golden mane, clearly not thrilled about it. Though if it was about her own answer or the situation that had presented to her she did not know.
Kalira however may have not notice it or she did not seem to care as she quickly approached her sister, a playful glint in her eyes.
``O~oh? So the rumours about the real reason why you all-Aght! She whined in pain as Velonaraa hit her again, just in time to stop in her tracks ``One of these days you are gonna carve my skull, sweetheart...´´
``You are too dense for that to happen...´´ Was the black haired girls answer. Vereesa could not avoid to roll her eyes, a devious grin on her face.
``And what about you Kal? Do you have a special someone? Someone to go back? Or should we prepare the litter for the future kittens in your care….?´´
``Haha...very funny, but that is a big Nah for you lot. There wont be the need for that….lets say that...I am already taken´´ She replied with a sly grin, but one that could not truly hide the redness forming around her cheecks.
``O~oh? And pray tell who might be? Someone that we know of perhaps?´´
``It might be the case, yes...though I doubt you would have an idea of who may be´´
``Is that so?´´
``Will you present us to the lucky gal or guy?´´
``Well…...Its...a rather complicated matter. I don't know how to say it without causing a shock in your faint hears´´
``As long as you did not grow feelings for a Troll or a Murlooc I doubt you will surprise us´´ Said Sylvanas calmly, waving her arm as if it wasn't such a big thing before she gulped down another glass in one sift motion.
``Very funny, Mam´´ Muttered Kalira under her breath before she shook her head and tried to regain her composure, though with not great effect as her lips, for though her lips remained open no sound came through them.
Until the raven haired ranger placed her hand around Kaliras exposed shoulder, her fingers rubbing softly against the naked skin.
``Thanks dear´´ It was nothing but a faint whimper, yet one that refused to be drown under the cacophony ranging around them.
``The thing is, that Velo and I are getting married, a week from today to be more exactly´´ She finally replied, shyly as her face burned with a deep shade of red that would had put most of the royal guards armour sets to shame while she smiled at them, nervous, unsure. One of her hands trailing down to meet her fiancées and grasping them tightly while the other started to fidget with her own curly blond hair.
Velonaraa, unlike her, stood tall and calm, her mouth closed in a small thin line, more akin to a cut caused by the carving of a knife in her pale face rather than a real flesh organ. Those cold, calculating eyes that had always come with multiple ways to take down a target were now gazing at them with….curiosity? Mild amusement? Or something else?
Switching a few times between the smaller rangers head and their merry group before she decided to set her attention on them. For all accounts she looked the same…. yet even the calm and taciturn lieutenant did not come out unscathed by the revelation.
Her nose wriggled to the left, her long ears were no longer stiff but instead had found themselves pressed down her onyx black hair as well as the muscles of her neck and legs had tensed, slightly, perhaps even barely perceptible under the cloth and the fading lights of the building. Yet those details were still there. Perhaps the only thing that could truly tell them that she was feeling somehow embarrassed about the whole ordeal was the faint reddish tone that was starting to warp around the woman's cheeks. Yet even that could had been easily dismissed as an after effect of the liqueur they had taken all night long.
And though all of these rare details were taking place before their eyes, it took a few seconds for the meaning of those words to truly came crushing down their minds.
``You what!? / Oh Belore! / Oh that's so sweet! / Well, it was about time...´´ Came the different response from the four others as they gazed at the duo. Some barely capable to held themselves from having their jaws hitting the floor, forcing themselves to learn to breath again while others observe at the reactions of the others with amusement while they played with their nails.
``You don't know how happy I am for both of you. But before anything is said and done you must tell us how did it happen!´´
``I have to say that I am curious about it…..´´
``And what a story it is….´´ Came Velonaraa, rolling her eyes as she played with her hair, everyone laughed at that. The room echoing of their mirth like tide waves washing against the stoic white gulches of the Shattered coast.
She could not help herself but lean back and observe at the rippling effects those words had caused their merry band of misfits, the world around her slowly fading away, leaving only the forms of her friends to be the only thing to lay before her eyes while everything else was shrouded in obscurity.
As if she was more of an observer and not an active participant.
There was no dark, cynical banter….no unease mood hanging around them as they exchanged jokes, and the throbbing echoes of the past had yet to voice out their displeasures from the other side of the grave. It was just as Sharlindra had said, them acting like fools instead of the grown women they were suppose to be…..
It felt nice…
Her eyes blinked a few times as she rose a hand to her face, her fingers rubbing slowly over the soft skin before she brought it back, a peculiar humid sensation slipping between them. Realization striking her a few seconds alter with astonishment as understood what was happening, that did not stop another tear to fall from her eyes and leave a faint trail around her cheek before it was lost below her cleavage.
She fought back the urge to scoff at it, especially not wishing to unwillingly draw their attention towards her. Whether these tears were of pain or happiness...she did not know, but what she knew was that they were part of it and that could never be a bad thing, or at least she hoped so.
Now the only thing she wanted was for this moment to never end, to avoid waking up once again in this uncaring world and having to deal with its bullshit again...
Was it too much to ask?
``And you Vereesa, have you or someone has already caught your eye? A taciturn Ranger Lord perhaps? Or that red haired mage that still writes you those letters filled with passion?´´
``Shit….´´