Echo of the Lion's Roar
Chapter 1 – Home, it's where the expectations are.
The skies of Elywnn were dotted with puffy white clouds. The sun sparkled through, and danced on the leaves of trees. The feathers on the gryphon rustled. He dove at incredible speed into the forest blow. The rider throwing her hands above her head screaming with delight.
Fox had not been home for an incredibly long time. Now she would be on a three month reprieve from her adventuring. It was time for her royal guard rotation. To her there was no place as beautiful as Elywnn Forest in all the world. She felt her very soul soaring just being there. Stormwind, was more then just where she lived. It was home.
Seb called out to answer her cry. The gentle squeeze of her thighs assured him she was alright. This knowledge caused the cunning gryphon to increase his pace. He was no ordinary mount after all. He was the pride of the Wild Hammer clan. A heritage and legacy longer then even the King who owned him. The bond he formed with the rogue that sat astride him was strong. Their minds finally merge like one, when locked in the dance of flight. That was why he was able to pin his large wings to his side, and twirl his body in a horizontal spin without losing her. Then lifting higher to skim the roof tops of Eastvale Logging Camp. The residents, that were outside, all turning in awe of the acrobatics of the passing rider.
"You are in a good mood, Seb. Happy to finally be rid of me, and back in the Royal Stables?" Fox patted his neck.
Seb did not understand her words. It was her constant care and affection he knew so well that he heard. A squawk thrown back at her was her only warning. He dropped low to the ground dodging the tree trunks. The large wings stretched out to full length. They broke the wood line at Crystal Lake. The murlocs gurgling on it's shores caught Seb's attention. He banked toward them.
There was nothing Fox could do to stop him. She had dropped the reins the moment he had began weaving through the forest. Seb grabbing one bright green Murloc up in his talons. He tossed it up high in the air. Fox watching the fishman flipping helplessly past her head. Seb spun, and went back for it. Catching it in his beak. A few head bounces and it was thrown into the deeper water.
Fox laughed hard. "Now that wasn't nice, Seb. But seeing as it was a Murloc, I can find it in my heart to forgive you." Looking up to see Goldshire before her, Fox leaned low.
The signal was clear to Seb. Fox wanted speed. The kind that impressed. Taking note of the crowd in the town before him, Seb was willing to comply. He did, after all, enjoy an audience to his greatness. They rocketed past as Seb let out a battle cry so fierce it echoed even within the walls of the Lion's Pride Inn.
"You are going to have everyone jealous of you now." Fox looked back over her shoulder. Seb ignored her. Using the speed to coast through the arch of Stormwind's gates. Lifting vertical in front of Turalyon's statue. They flew over the Trade district. Then circled the Cathedral before moving to land back behind the main keep. The royal stables pristine awaiting them.
"Miss!" One of the hands dropped his pitchfork, and ran toward her.
Fox ignored him. Dismounting, she bent over and ran her hands over her tired legs.
The stable hand coming up to her in a rush, "Miss, you can't bring your Gryphon back here! This area is reserved for his Majesty's private use."
Seb moved between them. The feathers fluffing up in a clear warning. Chirps of irritation deep in his throat. He did not like threatening tones. Especially not ones directed to his rider.
"I understand. I am merely returning his Highness's mount from the Lion's Landing mission. Check his anklet for conformation." Fox pulled the reins over Seb's head. Holding them out to the confused stable hand.
Seb turned his head to Fox. Clearly confused as to why he was being entrusted to someone else. Strangers were not to be trusted. He had learned that much during his time with the rogue.
The man took the reigns hesitantly. He started to kneel down to check the identification tag. Only to be knocked back by one forceful wing. Seb flapping both of them hard as he reared just a bit.
"Seb!" Fox scolded. She reached out trying to sooth the irritated Gryphon. "You behave for the poor man. He is only doing his job." Looking down at the prone figure, "I am so sorry. He really can be quite a handful at times."
"It's okay, miss. I can see the inscription on his ring from here." The words coming out a low groan. "I shall send a messenger to inform King Wyrnn that you have brought the beast back in good condition."
"Thank you. There is an older mount here. A Gryphon named Besty. Is she doing well?" Fox wrung her hands, dreading the answer.
"Ah! You know Besty? Yes, the sweet girl is the joy of the entire stable. She is doing very well. Would you like to see her?" The man took the reins just avoiding a sudden peck from Seb.
"I would love to do so, but I need to report to my Boss over at the SI-7. I will be back later to see her." Fox promised. It was enough knowing that Besty was pleased with her new lot in life.
The man blinked, "Your a rogue." Looking closer his eyes widened, "Are you that rogue?"
"Excuse me?" Fox turned. She had to admit his tone caught her attention.
"Well you said you were from Lion's Landing and the rumors are that..." The man blushed. Embarrassed to be caught carrying gossip, and possibly about the woman before him.
Fox tried to look expressionless. Rumors, again with the rumors. "Good sir, if there is some Lion's Landing Rogue gossip, I can assure you I know nothing of it."
"I am very sorry. I didn't mean to offend."
Fox didn't bother saying goodbye. She turned and made her way toward the gates into the city. The Dwarven district was full of heat and smoke. There were happy laughs of the hard working race, mixed with the drunken slurring of speech. Somethings never changed.
She moved through the crowded streets. Senses heightening as a small human boy bumped into her. Painfully aware of him lifting her purse.
"So sorry miss." He called out. Believing he had not been caught in his mischief. He bobbed a short bow and ran off.
Fox smiled and waved after him. He would be so disappointed with the bag of polished stones and small rolled note. If he was able to translate the scrap of paper, he would find an invitation and password to speak with SI-7 Leader Mathias Shaw. "Good Fortune shine on you, little soul." Fox whispered turning to resume her path.
Moving along the front of the main keep. She looked up the stairs. Immediately squelching any urge to go inside. She would be in and out of that building constantly for the next few months. She would have her fill of political posturing, grand meetings, and of course titled noble frippery. How King Wyrnn dealt with it was beyond her. She had to salute him for that alone.
That put a bounce in her step as she moved through the arch into Old Town. The smell of the Pig and Whistle tempting her to stop. After her meeting with Shaw, she promised herself to get a snack.
So who was she going to be assigned to this time? Anduin! Oh please let it be the Prince. Fox loved guarding him, simply loved it! From the time in the Library to the archery matches. Although, she was pretty sure they would be in and out of the Cathedral more then any of her previous missions. He was becoming a powerful Priest after all.
The other options were Genn Greymane and the King, himself.
She had yet to have an opportunity to watch the Gilnean leader. Fox pinched her lips together in thought. It could be a really interesting assignment. Considering how long Greymane had lead his people. There would be a wealth of insight to the man. She could learn so much from observing. Shivers of excitement at the prospect rushed over her.
Shaw would not be so diabolical as to force her to watch over King Varian again, would he? That paused her step. Yes, Shaw would. She begrudgingly admitted to herself. Fox decided then, if that happened she was going to do her utmost, to remained as silent and unseen for as long as she could. The idea of informing his Majesty that she had been in the keep by his side for three months without his knowledge would be completely worth it. The look on his face would probably steel her through the rest of her days.
Entering the training area she was still lost in thought. She missed Shaw looking up from instructing one of the new agents. Seeing her, he patted the fellows shoulder and signaled he would be off.
Fox was tackled in a huge hug. Stunned she shrieked and flailed her arms. "Damn it, Shaw! What happened to affection in uniform."
"We don't have uniforms." He took her arms and stepped back. The brown eyes looking her over. "I can not believe you did it, Fox."
"You did have your doubts?" She winked up at him. Knowing he was referring to her suicide missions. Light be praised she had been just as lucky as she was cunning.
Shaw let her go, and reached up to stroke his beard. "I didn't doubt you were going to die. I believed you would. Now I know I have underestimated you."
Fox lifted her hand to stare at her nearly nonexistent nails. Then pretended to polish them on her shoulder, "The Crimson Fox, proving that anything Mathias Shaw can do, she can do better."
"Oh really? Remember I get to decide who you're guarding this rotation." Shaw let loose a vicious smirk.
"About that! I think I want Greymane." Fox placed her hands together. Peeking up at her boss. A hopeful light in her eyes
"The King has already been selected. You knew, I would send you to him. After all you're friends." Shaw chuckled as he turned the imaginary dagger. "Sorry, Fox, I already inked the final forms. You will be Lead Rogue in charge this time too."
"Fine."
"You are not going to argue with me? Come on, Fox, I was up all last night dreaming of how you would react to this. Don't ruin it by being compliant."
Fox reached out and patted his shoulder, "I am sorry, Shaw. I fear there is no entertainment in this for you. The King is my friend, after all. So who am I getting to work with."
"I chose Cat. She is pretty dependable. So lots of help there." Shaw nodded, as he recounted the list."There is a new little gnome rogue too. He has finally risen in skill enough to learn how to go about this. His name is Iggee. Shy little fellow, but I see potential."
"And my last rogue? Adian?" Fox smiled at the thought.
"Nope."
"Amber?"
"Like I would waste her time with this?"
"Gee thanks, tell me who?"
Shaw didn't answer. He looked over her head at the loud screaming and swearing coming from the entrance. "Ahh Goldenleaf, I see you found him."
Fox turned and paled, "Shaw you son of a bitch! You can't be serious."
They watched as Goldenleaf held Learen, the angry little gnome rogue, by his cloak.. The Night Elf had his arm thrust as far away from his body as he could. Learen spinning around trying to stab the druid. By the Light, was that foam coming out of the goggled gnome's mouth?
"I am. I got word that Learen needs to be removed from battle ground service. He has formed some sort of strange addiction to it. What better place to detox then on boring guard duty?"
"Guard Duty?! No! I refuse. Put me down so that I may stab him, you floppy eared pin cushion." Learen growled at Goldenleaf. Waving his daggers in the air as if he was brutally murdering Shaw.
"I found him in Alterac Valley. When I asked him when he was going to leave, he told me," Goldenleaf sighed and looked at the Gnome still scrambling around trying to be free. "That he would leave in a body bag. He keeps going on and on about it being Stab the Blood Elf day."
"It is Stab the Blood Elf day! I can show you my calendar. I take my stabbing very seriously."
Shaw sighed, "I will pay you the gold I owe, but after you go lock him in the basement. Seems we are going to have to starve him a bit before he agrees."
"I want more gold." Goldenleaf headed for the door of the SI-7. Clearly the druid was feeling used. "I am not being paid enough to put up with this."
Learen was screaming at Shaw as he was carried off, "Starve me? Lock me up? HA! I survived in Gnomergan for months with nothing but my daggers, with out being killed or irradiated. You can't bully me Shaw! I know where you sleep." The voice fading. "I'll stab you, Shaw! I'll do it too!"
"So Fox, seems you will be a man down for a day." Shaw looked to the building and pondered on Learen's ability to be stubborn, "Or five. Excuse me, I need to make sure they don't give him water. I have a feeling that he could last months in there if we give him anything to drink."
Fox grabbed his arm. She forced him to look down at her "I will be taking two days before the rotation starts. I want to spend time with my parents."
Shaw nodded, "I expected that when you came through the gate. Be careful moving around the city. I do not need anyone recognizing you."
Fox watched as Shaw picked up his pace heading into the headquarters. She didn't pity him. After all she was the one that was going to have to deal with Learen for the next three months. She had no doubt that at the end of that time, she would be begging the gnome to stab her. Knowing Learen, that would be one order he would comply to without argument.
Now that her duty of reporting in was done, she would stop at the Protective Hide, and change. She maybe a leather worker by trade, but Gracie Fulbright expected her daughter to dress like a lady.
O0O0O0O0O0O0
Varian gave a bored smile, as Greymane complained, yet again, about the cold starkness of Stormwind's architecture.
"There is something to be said for the warm inviting colors of wooden timbers." The older ruler sighed. "Standing on stone all day is making my joints ache."
"Wood burns, Greymane. I prefer the stone." Varian side stepped the obvious fact that Greymane was clearly suffering from arthritis. Watching the elder man limping around the keep, Varian wondered if perhaps he should consider putting in a more comfortable throne in preparation for his own old age. A huge sigh hit him. That was wishful thinking. The chances of him making it to his old age.
"Your Highness," Varian looked up to see his Master Stableman moving up to him. "I have brought you an important report. Should I read it now, or would you like to look it over later?"
"Is Besty well?" Varian turned his attention to the man.
A smile brightened the Stableman's face, "Oh yes. Besty is still in the of best health. I had her tacked up the other day. One of the grooms took her out for a few turns around the city. She seems to be moving well and without pain."
Greymane scoffed at that.
Varian dropped his head trying to hide the smile."Then what is there to report?" He felt oddly confused. What was urgent enough to require his attention?
"I am please to announce your Grand Armor Gryphon has been returned. Minus the armor." The stableman supplied proudly.
That information caused Varian's head to snap up. The blue eyes going large. He was eager for more information. "The rider?" He moved forward. Ready to run from the Keep, if Fox was awaiting him at the Stables.
The excitement in his voice causing the Stableman to look nervously at Greymane. "My hand tells me that the rider asked about Besty, and went to check in with the SI-7. Is everything okay? Should we have detained her?"
Varian scowled and looked around the room. "Yes. Everything is fine. Thank you for the report."
Greymane waited for the man to leave, before casting Varian a glance. "What was that about?"
"Obviously nothing. Seeing as she didn't bother to come to the keep, and alert me to her arrival." Varian turned to slump down on his throne.
Graymane sputtered on a laugh, "A woman? You? I think my hearing has finally gone."
"She isn't just any woman. If you get the chance to meet her, you will see what I mean. Fox can not be explained."
Greymane was speechless. Was it possible that the Stormwind King had actual feeling for the rogue?
Varian came off his throne. "I have a better idea." He could not stay there and do nothing. Not when Fox had finally returned to Stormwind. It had been months since he had last seen her. He missed her company. The sly smile and teasing wit. He missed taunting her, then watching her struggle to find away around his all consuming power. He needed her as much now as he had in Lion's Landing. Why should he wait? Moving toward the doors in great strides.
"What are you doing?" Greymane limped forward cursing the cold stone in his mind yet again.
"To see Shaw about a rogue."
"What if something comes up?"
"Why do I keep you here, if not for situations like this?" Varian motioned for his guard. "Get me a horse. I need to go to Old Town."
O0O0O0O0O0O0
Fox had to admit, robes were comfortable. She lifted the hem of her boring brown robes off the ground. The cloak swayed behind her. The thick hood hanging back. She had just left the Protective Hide, and was considering stopping at the Pig and Whistle. The thundering sound of hooves brought her attention up. The citizens all stepping back in the streets. Excitement as the King rode past, the Stormwind banner waving behind him.
Fox took her place in the crowd lining the streets. Moving to tip toes to see King Wyrnn riding right through the gate at the SI-7. She smiled shaking her head. Poor Shaw. First Learen, and now King Wyrnn. She wondered if it was her return that had brought him to the SI-7. She snorted and rolled her eyes at her vanity. There were so many things that could draw his attention it wasn't likely to be her. Pushing through the people milling around, awaiting another look at their King. Fox had no time for this. She moved toward the Trade District. The only place she wanted to be right now was in a little town house located on the canal. She wanted to see her parents. Fox was going home.
Fox waited by the front door. She had knocked a few times. The voice of her mother calling out in acknowledgment. Gracie Fulbright pulled open the door. The bright green eyes flew wide. "Eloise?" Throwing her arms around her daughter she cried out, "Eloise, my baby!"
"I'm finally home." Fox had to hold back the tears. Wrapping her arms around her mother and pulling her close.
Gracie pulled back. The lips pressed close. Reaching out to slap her daughter's arm hard."You terrible girl. It's been months since you sent your last letter. We thought you were dead."
"Dead people don't need to eat. I can smell you're making bread." Fox gave her mother a little smile.
Gracie pulled her daughter into the house and rushed her toward the eat in kitchen. "Your father should be home shortly. He is bringing guests with him. The Captain of a merchant ship and his son. You will need to thank them. I made so much extra food for them."
"A sea Captain? Does this fellow have a name?" Fox forced herself to sit properly. It was time to revert from being a SI-7 agent to Eloise. Fox liked being herself so much more. But her mother had her own thoughts on the matter, and Fox knew better then to challenge them.
"I believe your father said his name was Captain Raynol Stormblight." Gracie placed bowl of stew before Fox. Then added a steamy chunk of buttered bread, and a glass of moonberry juice. "That should hold you over."
Fox was relieved she did not know any Stormblight in person or deed. Lifting the spoon to her lips. "What of the son?"
"He is taking over the shipping company for his father soon. So the young gentleman is learning the ropes, as the saying goes." Gracie sat down and rested her plump chin on her hand. "What of you? What kept you away this time? Do not tell me those chubby Panda's are as demanding as the Twilight Highland Dwarves were?"
Fox choked on her soup. Recovering she pulled out her rehearsed lie. "I really don't want to worry you with things in the past, mom."
"So there was danger involved?"
"The Continent of Pandaria had trouble with something they call the Sha. I did not want to take a chance of accidentally bringing home any trouble."
"I wish you would have brought home some trouble in the form of a man." Gracie lifted her head hopefully, "Did you find anyone acceptable?"
Fox laughed. Most women would be insulted by such insistence from a meddling mother. Still this was Gracie Fulbright. She had been pushing her daughter to be a good Lady, and make a good match since before Fox could remember. "No. I did not find a single acceptable gentleman on my very long journeys."
"What about unacceptable?" Gracie frowned. "Because you aren't getting any younger girl. I have to admit I am getting quite desperate."
Fox put her spoon down. "There was an unacceptable one in there. But his job was so unacceptable, I kept a good distance."
"I guess I can't fault you for not throwing effort after foolishness." There was a slight ring of disappointment in her mother's tone. Reaching out to pat her daughter's hand. "Don't worry dear. We will try harder. It's not to late."
The sound of the door opening brought Gracie to her feet.
The loud male shout making it's way to the kitchen "Honey, I am home!"
"Myles, I have such a surprise for you. Stay here." Gracie pointed at her daughter. "I want to tell him you are home." Then she rushed from the room.
Fox was left alone. Taking advantage of the moment she spooned more soup into her mouth. Being at home was heaven. No one ever cooked like your own mother. She only had a moment, before the thundering of heavy boots caused her to look up.
Myles Fulbright stood in the door way. "Eloise!" He did not wait for her to react. Rushing in and pulling her as if she were a feather out of the chair. He crushed his precious daughter to his chest. "Thank the Light you have returned. Have you missed your father?"
"That's a stupid question, Dad." She fluttered her legs in the air. One thing could be said of her father. He was a large man. In stature and strength. Years of moving freight on and off ship added to rigging had made him muscular as well. Even with his advancing age he was more like an ox. "Don't you have company?" She asked.
Myles set his daughter down, "Nothing is as important as you are, Eloise. Nothing."
"Nice to hear that, Fulbright, but I am starving and your wife's cooking smells amazing." Fox could only assume that it was the Captain Stormblight who spoke.
She looked over, and saw her mother inviting the men into the kitchen.
"Captain Stormblight, may I present my adventurous daughter Eloise." Myles smiled over at the Captain. "She has surprised us with her return from Pandaria."
"Pandaria" The Captain suddenly looked impressed, "My son Jacen, has been rather curious about the new continent. Perhaps you would be so kind as to tell us about it?"
Fox looked from Captain Stormblight to Jacen Stormblight. One could certainly see the family resemblance. Tall, blonde, blue eyes, and generally pleasing to look at. "It would be my pleasure."
"Then you may discuss it during dinner, because I didn't work all day for it to grow cold." Gracie motioned to the chairs."Myles and Captain Stormblight, you may take the ends of the table." Then she paused. A sudden gleam in her green eyes. "Mr. Stormblight you may sit here next to Eloise."
"It would be an honor." Jacen looked all to delighted as he waited for Fox to sit. "Myles you never mentioned that Eloise was such a beautiful woman."
Fox felt her smile fail. Oh by the Light, not again.
Author Note: I have to admit, there is some trouble keeping Fox straight. Having two names for the same person, tricky. As you can see Fox's Luck has not changed at all. And I will admit this up front. I am a HUGE fan of Learen. He just makes me laugh so hard. Angry, angry, hateful little Gnome.