Speech = `` …. ´´

Thoughts = ….

Inner voices = " …. "

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Vereesa point of view:

Kingdom of Quelthalas: Silvermoon

``Ranger General, Captain Windrunner…., please, rise….., we have much to discuss….´´ Stated dryly a solemn voice, slender fingers stroking softly the edges of a well cared beard as two ancient eyes glared down on them with hidden animosity from a mighty throne made out of gold and ruby's.

``I am grateful that you have arrived here in earnest….. I wished everyone was so diligent when called´´

``You summoned us my king, it was only appropriate to follow your command´´

``Indeed…, though I pray tell that you understand why I have brought you…. two here. Do you?´´

``We do not, my liege, though I we think we have an idea of the reason behind it...´´ She replied.

``The refugees from the kingdom of Lordaeron, and news of forthcoming doom they bring´´ Finished up her sister, quickly switching the attention of his majesty towards her.

``Yes, the refugees…..´´ The words came out slowly, as if considering their worth. She did not like it.

Her sister did not seem to care about his majesty's wording as she continued on. ``The stories we have gathered from them have been...worrisome, a new foe has appeared on human soil and its spreading rather quickly, they may have been the first to come, but they will not be the last...´´

``Its possible that this new foe may pose a threat to our kingdom in the long run, be it for our proximity to Lordaeron or the possibility of this enemy finding and targeting this groups of humans may lead them to our home. Its imperative to send scouts and mobilize everything we have´´ She said, grabbing once again the kings attention onto her.

``I am not blind to the events that are taking place outside my halls, captain. There is little that happens under my vigilant gaze that goes pass me….., even if many believe otherwise. Now this, this situation..., this crisis that our neighbors are passing through its merely …..´´ His words halt for a second, two, three. His face turned in a scowl as he glared at one of the grape in his left hand, its round violet shade standing still by those slim, skeletal fingers.

Then the grape burned out, the flames consuming it so fast that only a purple mist was left of it``An inconvenience…..´´

An inconvenience!? The manner he uttered those words was as if they were not talking about an imminent threat but rather the weather lit a fire inside her. ``What do you mean by that…?´´ She replied more hastily that she desired. The kings eyes narrowing in response.

``I believe that I have not given you permission to speak out of turn, Lady Vereesa….´´

``My apologies, my king. I was merely curious about such statement´´ She replied with both haste and formality as she bowed immediately, a pang of pain coming from her knee as it touched the floor way faster than she had intended, but one she ignored completely. She had her head hanging low so she could not spot the glare the king was giving her.

Nor he could see the scowl on hers.

``Of course, everyone makes mistakes from time to time….. some more than others…..´´ Each word hung over her head. ``As I was saying before you interrupted me, its an inconvenience….we all knew that sooner or later the human kingdom would fall...they just did it far sooner than intended´´

`` With that out of the way…., I have received news from Ser Feldan, I believe that you two know each other ´´ He muttered laconically, the folds of his skin slowly cracking into what could have been assumed was a smile, abomination of a smile, but before she could say anything he continued.

`` Though his report was large and tedious…..there was a part that caught my attention. He informed me that you not only refuse to aid him on his task, but that you assaulted him, both physically and verbally and then took away the command of his forces under veiled threats´´

That lying fuck!

``I must admit that its not the first time I have heard this kind of critics from your sister, and her more than questionable decisions…..´´ He glared at Sylvanas, who did not respond in any kind or form, her face a mask of indifference. `` But never from you, captain Windrunner. What do you have to say for yourself?´´

There many things that she wanted to say indeed, to spat out if to be more correct. Yet she knew that it would be for naught. With her head still hanging low she decided to utter the next following words. Only Beelore knew if her plead would be heard.

``Permission to speak freely, my liege?´´ She could feel how those eyes were burning holes on her hood.

A second passed, then another, with only utter silence to greet her. For a moment she thought that her words would go unheard and she would be forced to remain kneeling.

``Granted..´´ Was the quaint yet guttural reply.

A wave of relief washed over her, yet she did not allowed to show it, least the king changed his mind. Rising his head he met her liege cold eyes.

``With all due respect my liege, while Feldan has given most of his life in service for the kingdom and has been a steadfast defender and friend of the royal faction, there were a series of irregularities present on his activity on the region, some of them very serious´´

``Is that so?´´

``Though as a commander he has the freedom to choose what sort of action must be taken to protect the kingdom, the very moment I arrived at the field by his own cry for help I found him…..abusing his power over those defenseless people, we were lucky the humans did not tried to fight back as a horde because of him ´´ She replied curtly.

``Was he now?´´ His voice was calm and tone down, yet she could feel the knife sharpening behind it.

``Indeed...´´

``Those are grave accusations, my lady. I fear that you cant just utter them on a whim without any sort of repercussion, be thankful the court its long gone or the gossip from this would have been….problematic´´

That is a fun way to see it, isn't it? ``I know what I saw…, my liege´´

`` Do you have proof? A witness perhaps?´´

``Are my words that questionable?´´

That seemed to not set well on him, a frown formed on his ancient face, while his fingers started tapping the golden edges of the thrones arms. `` You surprise me Captain….., you better than anyone should know that if an investigation must take place, it s always mandatory to recollect the testimony of those present to ….support you, in case to avoid foul play of course…...after all, nobles are not very well known for their honesty´´

What a nice way to throw shit at bout of us, not that I care anymore. Besides, you never make investigations regarding your friends, unless is to save face….like that time

How the blatant incompetence and abuse of power had led to that village be destroyed and its inhabitants butchered, not because they had done something to them, but rather they were trying to hurt someone else.

How an innocent had been humiliated and imprisoned for life for a crime not her own but rather the weasels own making. Backed up by a father that though held no love for him had no intention to weaken his position.

That time she had been foolish to believe in the honesty of their royal highness. No longer….

And so she kept quiet.

Anaesterian stood silent, his eyes glaring at her as if they could pierce through her flesh and look at her soul, awaiting for an answer. His frown deepened when he realized that she would not talk.

``No? No one at all? Well… that's unfortunate´´ The tone of his voice spoke otherwise.

``Now, with or without prove about Feldans failings on his duty, we still have the matter of the refugees. We better deal first with what is urgent so that we can find who to blame about the management later on...´´. Came her sisters steadfast reply, drawing away the attention of the elderly king.

It took a few seconds than she would have liked before Anaesterian stopped glaring at her and decided to regard Sylvanas.

``My thoughts exactly, Ranger General. My closest confidants demand me to punish them for their transgressions, make an example of this few to stop any possible illegal entry in the long term….a decision though not yet taken does have some…..appeal´´

``And what would that accomplish my liege? Nothing but senseless violence and spilled blood. We could very well waste our men in more productive goals than just an act of repression from defenseless people...´´

``And should we waste our resources on them? Do you not see the future ramifications such naive outlook could have? By allowing the sheep inside we may safe their….ephemeral existence, who is to tell that only sheep will come through our gates?´´

Well, now that wasn't actually far fetched. Especially when taking into consideration the fact that it was common sense to be wary of mere strangers than your own people, especially knowing that there were humans who had joined their enemies in the past and had been proven to try to infiltrate the kingdoms defenses.

The report about infected grain crossed her mind.

This was perhaps by far the most intelligent and useful thing his majesty had said in the entire night, nor that she would admit it out loud. No need to stroke his overbearing ego...

``Even now our men are searching for any clues regarding this cult of the Dammed, I assure you that if they find something they will put a stop to them.´´ She tried to reassure him, though mostly in vain as they could hear a low growl emanating from him.

``But you cant be sure of it now, can you?´´ A sick glint on those ancient eyes that glanced at the two of them with mirth at something he only seemed to know. `` I am sure the footman of Lordaeron and their paladin orders thought the same….. where are they now?´´

``We can't just close the door before them for just a hunch, my king. That is not how we operate´´

``Strange, didn't you managed to ambush the old horde and their Amani allies against all odds when everyone thought they would go north-west instead of going south-east? All because of a hunch I may add?´´

``That was different´´ Sylvanas cut him in, her voice emulating steel at that point.

``How so?´´ He fired back calmly, slowly starting to lean forward as he awaited for her response.

Vereesa fought back the increasing urge to pinch the bridge of her nose and get the fuck away from the room, almost uncaring of the endless rules of etiquette and good manners she would break. But who could blame her? This constant back and forth of pettiness and pride was getting on her nerves.

At this pace they would spend what remained of the night here, squabbling between one another,

``With all due respect your majesty, I think we should rather spend our efforts in trying to find away to salvage the situation as best as possible than to argue with one another like a pair of fishwives about such petty notions. It will not push away the threats looming over our shoulders´´

``You seem keen to repeat that we are under a dire threat…that we have no longer much time, but you seem to have forgotten that time has always been on our side. And though I honored my sons wishes to pull back the volunteers I have yet to see any worth in these foe. For all they have shown they may never cross our frontiers and go south, to Dalaran, I have heard that they are amassing their forces...more likely to strike at this...infestation´´

Dalaran is neutral in this conflict and they seem more likely to fend of the storm from their city than go out to meet them, why would the Scourge go south, leaving its rear undefended from the northern residents? It doesn't make tactical sense! Why cant you see that!?

``The undead could very well turn their attention at us as well, my king. Once they are done exterminating the last pockets of human resistance….what tells us that we wont become their next targets? Our geographical situation in the Easter kingdoms will leave us secluded from external help...though you already knew that´´

``A situation that has always played favorably in our favor when dealing with outsiders, both politically and territoriality´´ He retorted, he then waved his arm around `` This Scourge….as it has named itself its a threat, yes, but not to our people. I assure you, we will be quite protected from this tide behind the two Bloodgates...´´

``Their sturdiness are to be commended, but did not do such a good job at protecting us during the second war, the old horde with their Amani allies and dragon slaves managed to broke through and laid siege to This city, our capital, my king´´ Replied calmly if not a bit coldly her sister.

``That was before we reinforced the second Bloodgate withthat powerful spell, only with the three keys one can open the lock of the kingdom once the barrier is set. Putrid sacks of carrion like them will never be able to break through its enchantments in a thousand years´´

``And if you are wrong?´´ She could not help but ask, that question burning inside until that very moment.

Anaestarians cold gaze was casted upon her, the disdain in his eyes was too palpable to mistake for anything else, it was as if he was observing a speaking insect rather than a fellow Queldorei. And yet she felt no fear, taking a step forward.

``Your lack of faith is your weakness…., captain´´

``Your overconfidence is yours, my king´´ She found herself spatting unconsciously. Her pent up anger at the constant disregards thrown at her becoming too much for her to hold tightly, by the time she realized the look of outrage of the king and the look of surprise of her sister it was too late.

``You dar-!´´

``My liege, may I offer a proposition?´´ Came out her sister, drawing away from her the attention of the king, proving out to be her saving grace.

That did not meant that she dint have to endure that wrathful aura oozing from his very body, a promise of future retribution ``Of course, the floor is yours, general. I hope its worth it….for when you are finish I w-´´ Whatever he was going to say next would be forgotten as her sister interrupted him.

``As of yet we don't know when or where the Scourge may attack next, be it the closest human kingdoms, the dwarven clans or us…., but if worst came to pass we would need all the man power we could muster. This people that have waved ashore our borders have lost everything to those monsters, family, friends, love ones….., in other words, many of them have nothing left to lose´´

``What are you going with this, general?´´ Probed the king impatiently, his fingers tapping the arms of the throne repeatedly.

``Instead of disposing of them like one would to rotten sacks of meat, we could recruit those willing for the Corp. Direct their grief and anger at this foes while bolstering our forces, and minimizing our looses. Through unity we would weaver this storm, divided we may fall´´.

It was not needed to be said that it a brutal statement, though no less truthfully.

A rather practical approach….no?

Anaestarian stood silent, before he brought up one of his arms and stroke his beard, a looking in deep thought. ``Ah…..this brings me back. Liresa did had a nack to said that every time she had, whether she was right or not. I have to admit….., such proposition is unheard of, though not without merit. Yes, something like that could be done, but…´´

What now? ``But….?´´

``I believe that there is too much risk and too little to gain from such course of action´´

``Why is it?´´ Pressed Sylvanas.

``If they were capable to abandon their people what makes you think they will not turn tail and flee at the first chance of defeat or failure? A root in the middle of a battle can have catastrophic effects in the whole theater of operations. And that is not adding their lack of expertise with weapons….., or our weapons. What they were again? Peasants?´´

``People, my liege. Honest, living people´´ She said, earning a baffled look from the King, though one that was immediately squashed away by a frown.

``We can train them, every man and woman and child capable and willing to fight or die for their kin will prove to be an invaluable asset for the incoming war. Our weapons are beyond compare, and our instructors are worth in gold, the results will not be dissatisfying´´ Followed Sylvanas.

``Ranger General, surely you don't believe that a such a disorganized mob of humans who have never touch a weapon in their lives will be able to archive anything remarkable in….a week? Two? It takes centuries if not more for our warriors to become the perfect soldiers, what you are proposing its beyond ludicrous...´´

``You pay them too little credit, your liege.´´ Was her sisters dry remark, a scathing sound lasting at the very end.

``My apologies, Ranger General. I tend to forget that you placed one of them in your ranks…., what was his name? Tomas? Nathan?´´

``Nathanos…., Ranger Lord of the Fastriders and my second in command. A post that he earned through blood and sweat….unlike some of those that flock at your side´´

``So you say…., but more than once I have heard of the way you have shown your favor to this outsider over your own colleagues, and not just from those feeble nobles as you have said…..but also your own rangers, curious isn't it?

``People speak whatever is in their mind my liege, specially when they believe they have been slighted by any real or imaginary action. To pay heed to such notions is foolish at best and down right stupid at worst´´

``Yet for all I have heard, not even once you have affirm or deny them...´´

A grimace slowly started to form over her sisters face, yet she did not broke her composure at that. ``I did not know that we were call here to debate about which rumors are true instead of the protection of our nation, your highness. Had I know I would not have come to waste my time in this idle chatter and brought you a proper buffoon...that way we two could both laugh´´

``Always so aggressive, Sylvanas. I will let this slide….for now´´

``Of course, and we are most grateful. Now, can we count with your support?´´

``No, we shall remain from this, no point in sacrificing our peoples lives for a fight that may never come´´

``Does this has to do with the burning of our forest during the second war? I think that now is not the time for petty grudges my liege!´´

``Do not fight me on this Sylvanas! My decision is final. We wont have them. The humans in their hubris and lack of vision brought this catastrophe to themselves and we wont partake on it, in any way. Anything else?´´

No one said a word, an eerie tension filling the room to the point she could probably pin point a nail falling to the ground, that was until that was interrupted by the low, steady crunching of her sisters fists.

``No, my king...´´

``Good, I will let you to find away to disperse them, I will even lend you some of my royal guard to speed things up, but I wont grant you the resources that come with your station to mop this vermin, too much you have invested on them already´´

``But if you d-´´

`` You are dismissed´´ He cut her sharply.

With all the strength and self control she could muster she turned around and walked away from there, knowing that if she were to look back she would do something...reckless. Soon, the sound of their footsteps echoing through the now empty halls was all they could hear. A single thought prevalent in her mind,

It was gonna be a long fucking night.

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``I cant believe this, does he have any idea of what he is doing!? Does he!?´´

The two of them had returned back to the spire, to say that neither of them were thrilled by the results would be an understanding.

Sharlindra stood inside the room in one of the corners, her hands behind her back as she gazed at them in silence. Allowing the two of them to argue at their hearts content, though at least providing some sort of over watch.

Arator too was present, the young boys clad golden hair shined brightly under the light of the candles. He had refused to leave them to their own devices or go back to sleep much to her chagrin. In fact, the two of them had tried to bar him entry when they found out their nephew snooping around in his night clothes, it was bad enough that they had woke him up with their rather hectic arrival and yells of frustrations, but the boy had butted his way in a rather surprising manner...

Another thing he had gotten from her sister, she was sure of it.

``I bet he does, though I have the feeling that he wont loose any sleep about this Little Moon….

``I don't know which one makes my stomach hurl more...´´ She replied with distaste, a grimace on her face as she considered the options for a second. Her sister merely looked at her sympathetically, she too understood the utter madness and sacrifice of any moral righteousness that they had been witnesses in that cold throne room.

Still...what were they expecting to happen? For their uncaring overlord to go out of their way and help others with no strings attached? How childish...

``He has always been stubborn, sis. I did warn you that it may come to that…..though I wished he gave us more time´´

``Me too….., Belore knows how long it takes him to stick out his neck away from his wonderful spires. It seems that Feldan did managed to screw us over in the end´´ She cursed quietly, her hands closing into tight fist. He must have cried to Anaestarian like the little bitch that he was when things did not go his way.

No one said a word after that, allowing for a thick and eerie silence to follow through. The very sound of their breathing and t being the only sound they could hear.

`` What are going to do now? We just cant throw them out….not like this´´ She didn't seem necessary to add the fact that none of those refuges would take the news or accept them. If worse came to pass they would make a revolt against them

``No, but we could find a way to….mobilize a large number of them off our shores..´´

It took her a few seconds before a thought clicked inside her. ``You are planing to sail them away by sea´´ She muttered, realizing what her sister was hinting at. A rather daring move if she was honest.

She gave her a weak nod, a faint smile on her lips. ``Yes, I can ask for a few favors here and there….., and now that commerce with our neighbors have come to an end there are a few ships doing nothing with their sailors sitting in their thumbs I doubt they would care for what reasons we use their ships´´

``I didn't thought they would be that altruistic´´

``No, they aren't, but they will keep their mouths shut and do what I tell them for a few coins´´ came Sylvanas sharp reply.

``Fair enough´´ Convincing a bunch of bored sailors who were not earning their wares seemed far more simple than trying to appease to the proud cackle of the nobility to lend them a hand, it was also more practical. Wait...didn't Anasterian said that we could not use our usual resources to reroute them?´´

``He did not said anything about using our own finances to pull this off...didn't he?´´ Sylvanas replied with a smug on her face.

She could not find anything wrong with that logic, she was sure she could already hear Anasterians outrage when he heard about this. And she loved every second of it...

``We would need to and prepare provisions for their travel, no point in placing them in there, only for them to start eating each other or drinking the sea water´´ Sometimes desperation and hunger could make people do stupid things. Especially when they did not know what they were doing.

``Good idea, now we have to look for a way to smuggle grain and humans alike out of the kingdom….. Beloree, never thought I would ever said that. Anyway, we must be quick, if we allow them enough time they could even try to shut down this as well, deemed as an unnecessary expenditure ´´

She could help herself but snort, and how could she when nothing made sense? ``Kind of stupid if you think about it, to try stop us from moving away the humans that they want so much out of their noses. It´s….kind of contradictory, its like they want to drag this forever ´´

``I never said that they were well in the head´´

Too true, perhaps her sisters theory of brain root was on point. ``Too bad his majesty stated that he wound give us anything but time, eh?´´ She muttered dryly, earning a scoff in the process.

``How nice of you to remind me , sis...´´ Sarcasm pouring out from each pore of her body ``Anyway…perhaps we could appeal to the priests….Lia in particular, from what I take she does have some pull inside, it could also make them look good in the outside´´

``True... the problem then would be getting Romath on boat with this….´´ Muttered Sylvanas, rubbing her neck, a thoughtful look settling in her delicate features.

``Why would we need him? His blood rans colder than Northrend, I doubt that he cares about the humans´´

``That may be true, but he has been looking for an angle to take Belo'vir Salonar position and by proxy send Darkhan away from the kings council, he only wants….some leverage ´´

``And you have what he wants….´´ It wasn't a question but rather a statement, one that was quickly answered by a nod fro her sister `` You understand that we will replace a fool with dreams of power and a passive old man with a cold back stabbing schemer? Right?´´

A sigh left her sisters lips, a faint look of concern flashing through her eyes before a look of determination took hold. ``I do…or will have, but right now we need him and I will make him see how much he needs us. It would be a small price to pay to give us the support to send the humans away than wasting his time in fighting both Belo'vir Salonar and Darkham off the kings ears while we prepare for the incoming storm, besides...with the weasel away he is the second best thing to get away with this...´´

``And once he gets what he wants, the grand magister will lose his position...and Darkham would be kicked out like the trash he is….´´

``Correct, though more in the reverse really…..still, a wonderful image if I am honest´´

``Why him though? Darkham may be a sob but he is small fray to someone like Romath..´´

``Because he is an idiot….., and idiots are more harmful to their own side than their adversary's...perhaps Romath is planing to continue to shame that little shit, or he has other ideas. I don't know, and honestly I am not going to lose any sleep about it.´´

``The rest is up to him I guess..´´

``You guess correctly´´

Vereesa remained silent, pondering her sisters words. It wasn't a bad plan, hell, it was a lot better than she had thought previously...yet she could not take away that nagging sensation from her chest. Something was surely about to go wrong…, her gut feeling had never led her astray, but what was it?

Speaking of which, there was something else that had been left unsaid.

``You still haven't explain why we are doing this….´´

``Vere...do you trust me?´´

``Always, that doesn't meant you cant be insufferable cryptic or can go away and say "everything

will be explained in due time..."´´

``I am not like that and you know it….´´ Muttered her sister with indignation.

``Hmm...right, you were saying?´´ She said, fake interest in her words as she looked away.

``You too can be insufferable as well sis, you know that?´´

``Oh please sis, stop...you are making me blush´´

``It wasn't a compliment...´´ Drawled Sylvanas rolling her eyes as she held her head with one hand. ``And about the other thing? The magisters have been pushing their luck, hell even those two love birds back at HQ were pretty adamant at it. Thought it was time we got to hit back...´´

Perhaps, but the timing couldn't have been any worse, or best. It changed depending on how things would turn. That was the neat thing wasn't it? It all depended on the outcome and they had no way to channel it to their wishes.

``You do realize we are about to kick the hornets nest? Things will be pretty heat up, and with this crisis….I just-´´

``Oh Beloore….who would have thought that I would see my little sis worried about politics?´´ laughed Sylvanas

``I am not worried, mind you. Just pointing out that this…..may not gonna end as you might think´´

``Don't worry, you do your thing and I will do my own…, of our family it seems that only I managed to be able to deal with our shredded system…, what a joy´´Drawled out her sister, rising her arms up.

That may be because neither Alleria or I have the patience to deal with a bunch of chickens who enjoy to hear themselves talk from hours without end…. Her lips parted ways, though at first no sound emanated from them as she tried to formulate a question that had been lingering within for a while.

``What would Lia said about this?´´ She asked.

``What does she have to do with anything?´´ For once in the entire discussion the words sounded rather forced, and she should not be surprised by it, Lia was by far one of the most altruistic individuals, denying help to people in need because of orders would be a no no for her. And that was without taking into account the fact that a certain asshole was one of her friends.

``She is not gonna like this, doesn't she?´´ For better or for worse Lias good hearted nature had left her to befriend that lowly bastard. A matter that they had already argue about before...with little success.

Sometimes she could not imagine how that had ever happened in the first place, was she a better person than her? The answer scared her….

``No she wont, but she will survive it, we all will….´´

A bit foreboding...aren't you? Though truth be told, this was her sister who she was talking about, theatrics were in her blood...for better or for worse.

``Alright, I trust you, I really do…..I only hope it doesn't blow up in our faces, if they heard that we are beh-´´

``They wont, and even if they do they will not be able to do shit about it….not if we don't expose ourselves...´´

The words hanged out in the air, their finality slowly bringing them down over their shoulders as they tried to chew the whole mess. Yet she did not mind, she could make use of it, this silence allowing her to find some sort of peace of mind as.

A tired sigh leaving her lips as she contemplated her hands, now devoid of armor to cover the scars. The phantom itch of blood soaking every digit before it was gone in a blink.

``Though its not bad plan over all…., it wont be enough, mistresses´´ Came out Sharlindra, her voice calm and collected yet with small hint of solemnity.

``What is it´´ Sylvanas stated sternly, although more out of habit than any ill will behind it.

`` Our ships unlike the human galleons are thin and smaller, meant for quick travels and swift conflicts. The amount of cargo they can take will be considerably…...reduced from your estimation, more so when we fill them with the provisions and crew required for such travels. There are also thousands of them and not enough ships to carry them on, after all…... we have always prided ourselves for being a land power´´

``Meaning we lack the necessary ships for such ordeal—´´ Said Sylvanas.

``And only Kultiras would have enough ships to take them all and have some more to spare. And we are not Kultiras´´ Finished Vereesa.

``Nor we have any political union or strong relationship with them…., or a reason to coerce them to aid us´´ Muttered Sylvanas through clenched teeth, her eyes burning a hole over the table. `` I hate to admit it, but she is right, our current naval power...if we even can call it that, its not capable of such deed´´

``Shouldn't we sent a missive then? They may have no reason to like us…., but we have given them no reason to hate us either. Saving innocent people will probably turn things in our favor´´

Sylvanas shook her head, pummeling her hopes into the depths. ``It would take too long, and the king and his rooster of valiant cowards would not allow another power, even less a human nation to sail in their waters with a fleet of warships. Its out of the question….., I am sorry ´´

``Those who wont sail will have to go back by ground….not great, but not too terrible. Still, we will need to provide them some guards if only to appease the scared civilians so that they don't think we are kicking them out...´´

``I can get that done, now remains who leads the rest back, it has to be someone who knows the human territory…., but who?´´

To ride down the road through the human country side with a large column of men, women and children tagging alone, to guide them, feed them….this alone would sound hard for the inexperienced. And that without counting the dangers they may face on the way!

It was a task that required a lot of cold nerves or luck to be carried away perfectly, not something that many would be delighted to deal with, they would have to search for possible cand-

``I volunteer…´´

For a moment silence ruled over the room, one almost could hear a pin fall to the floor had there been one. Leaving her to hear the increasing beating sounds of her heart against her chest.

No…, please no…

She didn't want to, the muscles of her neck struggling to turn around, fearing what she was about to find. After what it could have been an eternity her eyes finally landed over the origin of those words, only for her heart to skip a beat for the one who have uttered those words was none other than her nephew, who wore apologetic look on his countenance.

``I volunteer for this, I will go to Lordaeron….´´ He repeated again, this time with far more confidence, standing up from his seat.

She didn't know when she stood up from her seat or why she was grabbing Arators arm as if he was about to vanish but she found herself standing in front of him.

``Arator….dear, this is no time for jokes´´ She muttered sharply, more than she originally intended but did not care, this was too important to be left ambiguous.

For a while he stood silent, those lively blue eyes of his looked right at hers with conviction, but also with pain. ``I wasn't, dear aunty….´´

It felt like a slap, her muscles burning inside her as they flexed and tensed rapidly, her fangs chewing her lips as his words repeated over and over again in her mind.

Why now? Why now of all times?

``You don't know what you are asking me….what you want to get involved with….´´ She whispered weakly, her voice cracking at the last moment as she placed one her hands around the boys cheek, her fingers caressing him softly.

She felt the heat of his fingers as he clasped his hands along side hers before she removed her hand from him. It hurt, more than she thought possible. ``I don't….I really have no idea what I may find myself into.…, but that wont stop me from helping those in need´´

``Arator….dear, I love your bravery…., but what makes you think that you can achieve what many others did not?´´

``I don't know, but someone has to do it, there is nothing left for me to do for my fellow countrymen. Is it so wrong for me to try lend a hand to those in need?´´ His words made her wince, memories flashing before her.

"Someone needs to bring their war to them, there is nothing left fore me here than pain and lost, so why do you refuse my decision?"

"You know damn well I cant stay here. Lirath, Mother, Father, countless others…., butchered by those vile monsters. Make no mistake Little Moon, there can not be peace as long as the green skins continue to exist, they must be exterminated to the last. And I don't trust anyone to carry this task than myself´´

Alleria, you fool….why did your son had to inherit your stubbornest? She thought with both pride and sadness as she gazed at him. How she wished she was here to see it with her own eyes.

To marble how much he had grown….

Sylvanas may have been thinking something similar to her, as her expression darkened slightly, one of her fangs chewing her lips. Yet the grand general of Silvermoon did not spoke out, she wasn't sure if she was grateful for it or annoyed.

``Do you….do you even understand what you are asking of me?´´

`` I know that this is selfish, and that I shouldn't be asking you about this, but I believe they would have wanted me to do it, that they would be happy to know that I would follow in their footsteps…...´´

Off all the things she was expecting, that one wasn't one of them...but perhaps she should had known better. She knew for a long time that he idolized them, she had been the one that had groom him into the stories of his elusive parents.

A colorful series of events and adventures the pair had shared in life, something to cheer up the mood from a lonely boy when he asked about who where they rather than look up some bunch of static statues in Stormwind. An attempt to nurture him away from the ruthlessness of her family's reaching traditions as well as trying to keep him away from such self destructive tendencies.

Oh the irony, she could already felt is bitter taste.

``I am sure that they would be happier knowing you are safe and sound, dear... There is no need for you to do this, we can find someone else to lead them away safel-´´

``While I stay here playing with my thumbs?´´ He said with a hint of exasperation drawing out in his voice ``Aunty…..I understand…., I appreciate it even, trust me I do, but I am no longer a child that needs you to carry me by the hand. There is no elf in all of Quelthalas who knows Lordaderon better than I, with the exception of you and aunt Sylvanas of course…..´´ He quickly added, looking at the two of them, clearly taking into consideration the years they had served in the Fastriders.

A nice touch, especially with so many who considered such experience as null, if not outright conterproductive.

``I know, and I haven't said otherwise...but you don't need to rush when there are plenty of other choices. We only need time to find which ones could work bes-´´

``But time is what we don't have! While we wait lives could be lost, you said it yourself! The roads could be blocked by foes or mud, wolves or trolls may grow more daring with each day that passes, starvation and sickness could be starting to spread through the refugees….. We need to act before its too late!´´

``But going south in such a hurry, with thousands of malnourished, fearful humans tailing behind you can only lead to catastrophe! Cant you see that? Life is not a fairy tail where goodness triumphs over evil because one is courageous or kind hearted!´´ She cried out, her voice cracking down as she tried to held down the anguished flowing inside her. Why was he been so stubborn? How could he not see that?

She wished Arathor would have lashed out, that he would have screamed at her, or just see reason…, anything that would tell her that her words were actually taking an effect on him, and not the melancholic smile he was offering her.

The same one he had when he stood before the tombs of her sister and brother in law when the day of his birthday reached the calendar, the same one he offered her when he tried to hide away his pain. Why? Why did he do that?

``I know….., you taught me well´´

``Perhaps not good enough´´ She said yet nothing but a faint whisper came out.

``Still, I will not change my decision, this is what I want...´´

Her legs quivered slightly, though it was probably nothing but an illusion casted from her own mind by these turn of events. After all, this was too much for her in such short notice, she needed time….and a drink, perhaps two to assimilate this mess. Beloree what could she do to fix this? Could she even?

``Syl….help me here!´´

Surely she would see reason and stop her s-nephews heroic yet foolish notions. She loved the boy as much as she did.

Yet no answer came, with an annoyed scoff she turned around, ready to ask again, this time more sternly and loudly if needed be yet she was met with a different scene. Her sisters eyes were not resting on her or her dear nephew, no….., they were lost in the distance.

To be more precise on the chimney. The brightness of the flames reflecting on the corners of her eyes. Her face stuck in a cold yet regal mask as he slowly turned her head in her direction. Her lips twitching only for a fraction as the color of her eyes dimmed as a silent voice went through them.

Though she would deny it, deep down she knew that nothing good would come out from her lips when they open up.

Fate was fickle, but never kind Not to her….

``I think that he should go….´´

The words lingered in her mind for a second, their ethereal forms slowly descending into the ground itself in slow motion before they echoed with the echo of a dropped pin. Curious, isn't it? How six words could bring the very world down around her before dragging her as well by their own weight.

It took her several seconds to rationalize what had been said, her mouth opening back and forth until she managed to strength to speak up.

``What!? She replied in shock, eyes open wide, gazing at her sister as if she were a stranger as she tried to make heads of the utter nonsense she had just heard.

``Look, no matter how we wish he wasn't, he is no longer a child, so he is in his right to take his own path. Besides he looks truly set about this..., I doubt there is much we can say to sway his opinion´´

``But we just cant put him in such position when he is clearly not prepared! Anyone but him sis!´´

``It doesn't matter what we do, or don't do…..sooner or later danger will find him. I like this as much as you do Vereesa….but he needs this. We cant keep him here lock like some sort of canary because we fear he will ruffle his feathers…..let him fly´´

``You are….not kidding...´´ She gasped horrified, taking a step back from both of them as she realized where this was all going..

``No, and I have the feeling that it´s possible that he would have gone there regardless of your choice…., am I right?´´ Said Sylvanas calmly, her eyes gazing at both her hands before switching towards Arathor.

``I wish it doesn't have to come to that…., but yes I would´´ He replied a bit sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck in embarrassment as he looked away from her. Not really wanting to witness the hurt in her eyes.

Why would he push her away? He had never questioned her before? What changed? What did she do wrong?

"What did you thought? That he would be like you?"

"What? Sad that he doesn't want to stick around you anymore? Who would after what you became?"

"Everyone will put above their own selfish reasons before yours….everyone will leave you"

She could already feel that particular metallic taste of blood as her teeth smashed against one another, her eyes shut while tremors went through her body. She knew that if she were to open them now she would not be able to hide away the tears threatening to form.

It hurt.

It hurt to have nothing to say, the way the words poked and puncture her with the same ease a blade would do through clay. How the image of her little light was now pushing her away as if she was a stranger, that she was arguing with him.

Why was this happening?

``But if that doesn't convince you we can also add to his retinue a small group of rangers, they will look after both him and the civilians during their travel. After all, we only need him to guide them south, the rest can provide much needed security, Beloore knows they will need it….´´

Slowly, her chest swelled and deflated with every intake of air her lungs could manage while her heart continued pounding with renew strength inside her as if deifying her. Only after what seemed an eternity she spoke out, her words weak and fragile as she still tried to regain her focus.

``How many will company him?´´

``We can dispatch at least two hundred with ease along side some food wagons in a day, four hundred if you press me, more will be considered a luxury we can not afford by the king and his lackeys, something that...I do agree if worst comes to worst´´

If this threat does try his luck with us you mean, sis….. ``Four hundred are still to few compare with the number they will be charged to look after….´´ Sylvanas merely nods, but she doesn't seem disturbed.

``I know, but we can only pray they do make it to safety….anything else will be madness. Many of them will die on the way south, of that there is no doubt, but most of them will reach their destination. Do we have your blessing?´´

She knew her sister could have done that regardless whether she agree or not, it was still touching the fact that she still made the effort to ask.

To care….

"Are you gonna let him get away? I thought you were made of stronger stuff"

"He will die alone, just like your brother….."

"You failed your oath to your sister, but don't worry, at least Lirath will have soon any playmate..."

``There wont be such need…..Arathor…..´´ She trailed slowly, yet before she uttered what needed to be said, she halted, the words stick on her throat. A burning sensation spreading over it as if the words themselves had become burning coals.

She knew that there would be no turn back after this. And for what seemed an eternity she rose her head and glared back over Arathor´s own.

``You can…... go...´´

Three words, three damn words. How simple they seemed yet they way they weighed on her was as she was been dragging down through the depths of the abyss. Fighting against Death wing with a broken leg did not seem like a bad idea anymore if she could trade it for this.

Arathors face lit up with surprise, those ocean shaded eyes open wide as they contemplated her, but soon enough they soften. An apologetic smile over his lips. ``Th-´´

``But let me make this clear for You, young man´´ She replied with renew strength, making the young boy flinch in surprise at her tone, closing quickly the distance between the two before she grasped his shoulder and pointed her finger at him, never wavering her gaze from his.

``You don't get to die on us, you don't get to leave us alone in some kind of selfless sacrifice. If the enemy are too many you don't engage them, if you hear screams you stay quiet and don't move, and if someone doesn't want to take orders from you quick them out and continue forward, always forward…. Understood!?

``Aunt-´´

I said…., do. you. understand? She snapped at him, her tone leaving no room for discussion.

``Yes…, I promise I will come back´´ She was not happy, but she knew that the only thing she would get from him would be that.

``We will hold you to it, I suggest you rest young man….I have the feeling you wont be doing that soon enough´´ She whispered softly before she started walking away from them, her back hiding away the tears that were starting to form around the corner of her eyes. She almost wished that this was nothing more but a bad dream, that the world wasn't going to shit, that her king had not pull out the finger at them or that her son would be going out of his way to get himself killed who knows where.

But she knew better….

She only needed time to cope, time to put these contradictory feelings at rest before she did something….terrible. Little did she know that this moment would be the last time she would ever seem him.