Long Humor chapter! Enjoy!
Chapter 39
Learen's Christmas Special
Learen was beyond ticked off. Finally he had been given an interesting mission by the SI-7 to infiltrate Lord Bascomb's trust by any means necessary. Such free range of choices were not typically handed out to the little Gnome. Despite his impressive level of skill. Shaw always held him on a very tight rein. Bascomb on the other hand, was willing to allow him to run wild. All the man wanted was a heartless killer for hire, and the occasional intelligence gathered. Bascomb had no idea where a Rogue's true skill lay beyond those two things. Finding things out was not really Learen's forte so to speak. A quick note slipped to Shaw had the information in his hands within hours. If it were true or false, Learen didn't care. He handed it over in his own sweet time, and Lord Bascomb rained praise upon him for it. Learen hated praise. Always an indication someone liked you, and he was always uncomfortable with that.
Lord Bascomb must finally have deemed his trust worthy enough for a real assignment. Killing the elder Lord Remington was to be the final act of devotion to the cause. To bad they had not asked him to do it earlier though, Learen growled in his mind. Why would that be? Because the rotten Noble had the ill grace to die before Learen had a chance to arrive. Now he stood in the bed room next to the corpse of a man he was supposed to kill. You can't kill the dead. Learen dragged his hands through his black hair in agitation. It would be different if that man had been plagued, but then the Undead was a completely different beast. Blast it all. It just made him mad enough to stab something!
Calm, Learen. You are going to end up frothing and twitching in your anger again. That never bodes well for you. Think man! Think!
First off, when confronted with a dead body, Learen was typically inclined to cover his involvement with it up. Removing any possible blame that would lead suspicion to himself. Unfortunately this time, he actually needed some kind of proof he had been involved in the demise of the victim. His trade mark stabbing would not work, since dead men don't bleed. Trace amounts of poison in the tea would not work either. Perhaps the best bet would be a large sack and some rope? Yes, then he could toss the man into the canal in Stormwind. That would make it clear it was an obvious murder.
Learen reached up and took the man's arms and pulled. The corpse fell out of the bed and on to the floor. It was then Learen realized that moving bodies was not really all that fun. A scowl as he tried to pull it further. It became clear that the only reason he moved it to begin with was gravity was on his side. Now it was his mortal enemy. Gritting his teeth he decided his next great invention would involve destroying all gravity that impeded his agendas. At the moment it was to late to devise such a device.
Argggh! What to do?
Lucky for Learen it was early in the evening. No one was going to come around for quite sometime to discover the body. Which was why he had chosen this hour in the first place. Slipping back out the window, he jumped across the rooftops unseen. Plopping himself down in the Trade District and watched all the other people rushing around.
He was pulled from his doldrums when he saw something out of the corner of his eyes that made him cringe in terror. Winter Veil Helpers were starting to stream about Stormwind. Was it really that time of year already? The PX-238 Wintervolt was up and in action. It had been created to keep Learen from systematically destroying all of Father Winter's little followers, by making them indistinguishable from regular people. Ingenious really. Blast Father Winter to the eternal nether. Everyone knew Learen hated the holiday and Father Winter, but what they didn't understand was why.
Learen wasn't the Grinch here. That was Father Winter. The old turd had once been a normal Dwarf with a heavy drinking problem. Although Learen believed he used alcohol to cover up the fact he was just a plain old mean saphead. He used to love tormenting Learen and his childhood buddies. Before everyone Learen had known from his youth had gone and died in the Trogg invasion in Gnomeregan.
Father Winter had taken it into his head that the meanest most vile thing he could do to get to Learen was to be kind, to everyone but Learen. He gave out presents and treats to all. Even Learen got a gift each year with a card. The gift, well coal of course. The joke would eventually be on Father Winter for that one. Learen was carefully saving it up to burn the man's house down, but that was a distant future. The letters were what really got to Learen. It was a list of every single reason he did not deserve a gift or basic kindness from others. Of course no one ever believed Learen's tale. They all love the gift giving buffoon.
Learen was caught off guard by a sound close by. Looking around for a moment before realizing it was just him, grinding his teeth again. Another year was going to go by and Father Winter was going to get away with his nasty prank. This time Learen was far to busy to go after the cookie eater and his gravity defying sleigh.
Blink.
Gravity Defying Sleigh? Surely there had to be some schematic to those plans. There was a small speck of hope within Learen's heart. Then it died. Father Winter would never let him anywhere near that sleigh. He looked down to a human Mage jumping into the PX-238 Wintervolt and shuddered. There was a way, but it meant giving up a bit of his pride.
No. No. No. NO! He would not pose as a servant of Father Winter for anything. Shaw could take his mission and shove it some where odious. Jumping down Learen made his way toward the SI-7, but not before tripping the Mage in disguise.
He arrived to see mistletoe literally growing around the SI-7 Headquarters. Sheylann happily humming away in a carol as her hands circled in spirally green glow.
The Night Elf looking over to see him stomping his way in. "Learen, sweet pea, should you really be here? You are going to break your cover."
"I'm retiring from field work. Going back to war where my reputation is safe." He snarled. He reached for the door and then it happened. The stupid woman rushed over and pulled him up in her arms like a child. The cheek brushing over his head.
"Oh poor dear grumpy Learen. You got caught under the Mistletoe, didn't you?!"
That was all the warning he got before there were kisses raining down upon his cheeks. "Stop! Cease! Desist!" The little Gnome flailed his arms in horror. Knowing that she had worn the dark purple lipstick for just such and occasion. Realizing the implications, he squirmed until he could see his reflection in the window. As suspected his face was covered in kiss marks. The eyes narrowed and he roared. "I'll CUT YOU!"
Sheylann knowing he was rather serious dropped him with a startled cry. She took off running for all she was worth around the yard. The sound of revving chainsaw blades caused her to make a mental note to self never to make this mistake again. "Come on Learen. It's not that bad." She called behind her.
"I actually look loveable. Some one must pay." He roared as he rushed around swinging his little fists at her.
"Learen!" Shaw appeared and tackled the little fellow. The two going down and wrestling around. "How many times do I have to tell you not to kill my Sheylann!"
"Tell me all you want! The demon of hatred lives within me!" Learen reached out a clawed hand toward the druid. "Must maim!"
"Demon?" Sheylann stopped for a moment. "Shaw that's the answer! Let me borrow Learen for an hour or so."
Shaw had his legs locked around Learen's neck. The long arms trying to grasp hold of his wrists. "If you hadn't noticed, he was trying to kill you again."
"Then let him go so he can follow me." Sheylann transformed into a panther and rushed for the doors of Old Town.
Shaw released Learen and like a rabid mouse he ran after the cat. Sheylann led him on a merry chase through the finely decorated streets of Stormwind. Until they came to the Cathedral Square.
Once at the entrance arch, Learen looked around in confusion. "Why are we here?"
"Demon of Hatred?" Sheylann nodded. "Isn't that what you said."
"And you think the Paladins and Priest can do something about this?" Learen peered over at the Holy place.
"No, they are perfectly worthless when it comes to anger like yours. But she could." Sheylann pointed over to a lovely woman with the face of an angel. She was rushing around affixing red ribbons to the plate armor of every Paladin who passed by. "Crimson!"
The Warlock ignored the call. She was to caught up in her work. A bright smile as another Paladin was caught by the arm. "One moment of your time, Champion of the Light!" She reached up and twined the red ribbon around his shoulder armor. Tying it in a bow. "Present for me... and another Present for me."
"She is gift wrapping them?" Learen rolled his eyes over to Sheylann.
"Look closer." Sheylann whispered. "You will see."
Another Paladin walked down the stairs with a particularly dark look on his face. Crimson moved over and dropped a ribbon around his neck. The darkness filtering away as a brighter light ensconced him. The Warlock absorbing the corruption away from the man as she tied her bow. "And a present for me." A warm giggle as she kissed his cheek.
The Paladin chuckled and shook his head before moving off.
"See? We can get her to absorb your anger and hatred, at least for a time." Sheylann moved Learen next to Crimson. "What do you say, Crim? Little Winter Veil Miracle?"
The Warlock turned to see the two approaching her. She smiled sweetly and knelt down. A hand going to touch Learen's arm. Closing her eyes for a moment before shaking her head. "Nope."
"I know you're a Warlock, and opposed to Rogues..."
"Blood Elves and one Blood Elf Rogue especially! Thank you very much." The golden eyes narrowed. "I do like Rogues, and Gnomes are adorable."
"Then why?" Sheylann pressed out her lip in a pout.
"Because this one needs revenge, and I will not keep him from it." Crimson looked deep into Learen's eyes. A dark wave of power coursing through him. "You will not be satisfied until you see justice for your pain. Go destroy as you will, Little Gnome."
"But if I get my revenge Winter Veil will be ruined for ever." Learen whispered, knowing the Warlock had just seen his soul.
"Winter Veil is what we make of it. If it's ruined, that is not your fault."
"Yes..." Learen's purple eyes glowed deep with hatred and malice. Nodding slowly at her in awe. "Bestow upon me your dark blessing oh great one!"
"Blessing?" Crimson stood up. "Sure? Go get the bastard who pissed you off. You're blessed. Go."
Learen turned and headed for the Dwarven District, The Deep Tram, and Father Winter. He would gain his revenge this year, and complete his SI-7 mission. No one could stop him now!
Sheylann sighed and looked over at Crimson. "What did you do?"
"Obviously, I just sent a minion of darkness to destroy Winter Veil? Man, why does this always happen to me?" She looked down at the ribbon in her hands. "Let's catch a Gryphon to Hearthglenn. There are plenty of Paladin's I can gift wrap up there. Damn it all, but the ones here are so much cuter!"
"It's the price you pay for being omnipotent." Sheylann patted Crimson's shoulder. "Admit it you just want to run and hide from the eventual fall out?"
"Yes. That works too."
O0O0O0O0O
Learen came off the Deep Tram with new determination in his little black heart. He had everything he needed to get his revenge after all these years! That Warlock, Crimson, had been able to see right into his soul. He had known Warlocks took souls, mostly just shards. But when those golden eyes met his, there was such a rush of power and adrenaline. Learen felt he could destroy the world if he wanted now. All he had to do was get Father Winter to Stormwind. He entered Tinker Town and ignored the shocked gasps of the other Gnomes as his brethren scrambled to get out of sight. He head learned long ago that short of the High Tinker, none of them dared speak with him any more. Mekkatorgue only checking up occasionally to make sure he wasn't demolishing the Gnomish reputation with his bizarre behavior and rampant stabbing.
Coming into the Commons, Learen saw the poster. Looking closer he read it. "MEZTEN MISSING!" Well, this wasn't new.
"Hey Learen." Goldenleaf leaned over next to him. "If you are thinking about the reindeer, just forget it. I have it all bagged up this year."
"You?" Learen stepped away. He glared menacingly as he sized his foe up. "Why are you after Metzen?"
"The reward." Goldenleaf pulled the poster off the wall. "It's a new high grade steam tonk that transforms into a missile launching robot. Pure epicness."
"You want a toy?"
"That's what Winter Veil is about out here in Eastern Kingdom. Not like back home where it's the 25 days of Astarii. My mother plans it every year. From one event with the Priestess of my nightmares to the next. Always some where I have to be with her on my arm. Not this year though. This year I am going to camp out in Stromgarde, drink eggnog until I puke and torment the locals. Speaking of locals, the gang is all here in Ironforge. Shopping and picking up presents. Are you going to join us, little buddy?"
"Bah Humbug!" Learen spit on the ground. "I don't have time for this. I have a reindeer to capture."
"Because you want my steam tonk?" Goldenleaf growled down in open challenge. "Because if that is what you have in mind, I have to deter you from that train of thought right now."
"The tonk would have fine engineering components if it could actually transform." Learen reached up and rubbed his beard in thought. It might be worth his time to go the extra mile, rather then just using Metzen to get close to Father Winter.
Goldenleaf lifted his foot and placed it on Learen's face. Pushing the Gnome down before runing over him in his haste to start his hunt first.
"Cheating mouth breather!" Learen shouted as he rolled to his stomach. Shaking his fist after Goldenleaf. Pushing up on his hands and coming to his feet. "When I catch you I am going to show you how a real man kicks!"
Goldenleaf raced arounexd the Great Forge using the crowd as cover from the angry Gnome. Diving into a shop he looked up to see Khadgar standing over a glass case. "Well, hello there Goldenleaf. Fancy seeing you still on this side of the world. I would have thought you would have headed home to your family for the season."
"I, uh, am..." Goldenleaf looked out the window to see Learen rushing past. Ducking back around he came over to look at the fine jewelry in display. "I am looking for a nice trinket for my girl. Yeah! That's it, something pretty and sparkly."
"Your girl? So you have someone who has caught your interest this year? Besides the lovely betrothed your mother has told me repeatedly about? Astarii, I believe that was her name." Khadgar leaned on the counter as the Dwaren sales woman smiled, she knew a large commission when she saw one. These two were big spenders.
"Well, you know. Lady love their jewelery. Cant go wrong there." Goldenleaf moved around and passed a quick glance in the case. Looking up at the shop girl he added, "Give me that." A finger jump plopping down on the case."
"Earrings?" Khadgar chuckled and then placed a fist to his mouth and coughed. "You can't just get her earrings with out a matching necklace. It just isn't done."
Goldenleaf pressed his lips together and looked over the display. "Fine then, grab her a nice necklace that goes with them."
"Very good! Asking for help is always the best when it comes to this sort of thing." Khadgar winked over at the Dwarf.
"What are you getting, and who for?" Goldenleaf suddenly lifted his head.
"Oh I was getting Chelinka a little something. A silver bookmark with a rare crystal. It can hold a locator spell with in it, so that I can contact her when I need. Since I will be headed out to Draenor soon I would like to be able to speak with her regularly. About magic and such." Khadgar shrugged innocently.
"He also put in an order for tons of plain rings. The kind you give to toddlers at birthday parties. If ya ask me he's a player, that one." The Dwarf cast a glance over at Khadgar. "You know how long it's gonna take to fill that order, sir. Boxes and boxes of simple toy rings delivered to the Dark Portal?"
"Now hush dear," Khadgar looked uncomfortable. Then to Goldenleaf he whispered, "I have no idea how bad it is going to get out there, but sometimes a mere bobble can motivate a person to do great things. So long as they believe there is some sort of magic to it."
"So you plan to hand out fake magic rings, and expect people to believe they are powerful enough to defeat the Iron Horde? What kind of morons are you taking with you." Goldenleaf felt his mouth drop open in stunned horror.
"You would be amazed what the most rational of people will believe when you attach a long gruesome quest line to it. Trust me, Golden. It will work."
Not far off Learen was bursting through the front gates. Only to see Lor'themar and his two cohorts standing angrily behind him arguing with the Dwarven guards.
"And we be tellin ya, that we could give a rat's arse who ya be! No Blood Elves, means no Blood Elves!" One of the Dwarves waved his mace under Lor'themar's nose.
"But we came in good faith with the people of Stromgarde, and you let Lady Pyrasong inside!" Lor'themar snapped back. He pointed toward the city.
"The little Lady was a Paladin of goodness. It was clear she is merely a High Elf that has been lead astray by your wretched kind. The three of you are ta stay oot here, and await your party's return. And dat is da end o dat!"
"Lor'themar." Halduron shivered turning blue. "I'm cold."
"Your cold? Look at me, the wind is blowing up my robe." Rommath leaned over to wrap his arms around his knees. "Can't I just port us home where it's warm?"
"No one told you to wear a dress and come with us, Rommath." Lor'themar snapped over at the Mage. He was more then a bit chilled himself. Blood Elves were thinner then the other races. It left very little insulation to their delicate forms in such harsh conditions.
Learen stepped backwards slowly, even he wanted no part of this. Making his way back inside only to be waylaied by a very familiar voice.
"Learen!" Braelyn rushed over to him. She was holding a drink carrier in her hands full of steaming beverages. "It's been so long. How are you doing?"
"I'm hunting for a reindeer. Outta my way, Hunter." He started to stormed past. Then stopped and looked back at her. "Are the drinks for the Blood Elves?"
"Yes, how did you know? Oh never mind. They are getting cold." She turned and took small but quick steps toward the gates. Careful not to spill her cups.
"They are gone. Left. Princess Rommath ported them back to Silvermoon cookie shop." Learen grabbed her arm. The drink falling to the stone floor. "You are coming with me."
"But why?" Braelyn cried out as she stumbled along behind him.
Learen growled and shook his head not bothering to look back at her. "Missing Reindeer. Reward. You were made for this."
"You want the steam tonk toy?" Braelyn had to admit. She was surprised at that. She never took him for that type. Goldenleaf she could see running around playing with such a device for hours.
"Yes." Learen lied. "I want the toy."
Braelyn was a skilled tracker. Probably one of the best in all of Azeroth. Learen was renowned for his interrogations skills. So it was to both their shock to find Goldenleaf finishing off the Dark Iron Dwarves that held Metzen hostage in the northern part of Searing Gorge.
"How?" Learen gaped in absolute shock. The Druid had easily beaten them to the prize.
"How did I beat you here?" Goldenleaf looked over at his two friends rushing up to him.
"Yes! That indeed is my question." The angry little Gnome watched as Goldenleaf took hold of Metzen's lead line.
Goldenleaf shrugged as knelt down to unhobble the reindeer. "That's because this is where he has been taken every time the Dark Iron have stolen him for the last ten years. Didn't you know?"
Braelyn started to laugh. She could not stop herself from running to the animal's side and looking it over. "Oh you poor little fella. Were they mean to you?" It was good to see him safe and unharmed
"Listen, Learen. I don't mind taking him back with you. I still want the toy though." Goldenleaf offered. He put his hand out to the Gnome
Learen shrugged and accepted. Since he could care less about the stupid toy. "Fine. The toy is yours but we have to hurry. Soon Father Winter will be leaving on his yearly run, and I need to see him before that happens."
Braelyn smiled as she hugged Metzen close. Everyone was getting along and it was pure magic. Winter Veil was her favorite time of the year, or so she thought.
It was less then an hour later as Goldenleaf parted the crowd before him. He walked like a hero between those who had come to visit Father Winter.
Metzen following behind like the prize reindeer he was. In his mouth the sweet taste of molasses and oat treats Braelyn had been feeding him through the trip back.
To late Father Winter saw Learen coming unstealthed behind the reindeer daggers at the ready
"Euwwwwww..." The death cry of the fabled beast rang out for all to hear.
"My Tonk!" Goldenleaf turned shocked eyes as Learen flung a stark white letter toward Father Winters feet, and disappeared
Braelyn's mouth fell open as tears filled her large blue eyes dropping at the side of Metzen. How could this be?
"Learen!" Father Winter shouted in rage. A note fluttering to the ground at his feet."You will pay for this!" He leaned over and picked up the paper. Opening it to read:
Happy Winter Veil, FIEND!
It's time things were settled between us. Meet me in Stormwind for our final show down.
Hate you. Hate you so much,
Learen
Clinching the letter in his hands Father Winter's eyes looked as if actual flames burned within them.
Challenge accepted!
O0O0O0O0O0O0
Learen waited in an apple tree. He happily munched on his snack. When was the last time he was this happy? Happy was an understatement! He was almost giddy with excitement,
Night had fallen and the majority of the citizens had rushed home to bed. Eagerly awaiting Father Winter's arrival. It was the first time in recorded history that Learen was excited for Father Winter's great appearance.
The sound of bells alerted Learen to Father Winter's advance on his position. The purple eyes narrowing. Really? Had the Dwarf learned nothing in all these years? Scrambling from the tree Learen moved into open sight on a near by roof top.
The sleigh slid to a stop along the shingles. Damage that would need to be fixed before the next storm. Learen snorted, of course the inhabitants would forgive the chubby Dwarf on reputation alone.
"You horrible hateful Gnome! You killed my very best reindeer. Metzen was beloved by all, and now I will gain my revenge." Father winter bound from his sleigh. A candy cane sword in one hand and his huge bag of gifts as a shield in the other.
Learen laughed and pointed his chainsaw daggers toward the tubby Father Winter. "You started this long ago. You comeuppance has been long over due fat man. I know you only started this to make me more miserable."
"Of course I did you vile creature. I have hated you for a very long time, and tonight I will be rid of you. Either way this turns out, Winter Veil ends tonight for good." Father Winter charged in at Learen.
The Gnome vanished and appeared behind Father Winter. He had to be careful not to hit any vital points on his foe. He did not want him dead. That would be to swift an end, and Learen would doubtlessly find himself taking the wrap for ruining the season, and all others after it for years to come.
Knocked forward, Father Winter reached in his bag and pulled out his dreaded, stocking stuffing stash. Tiny plastic toys that were more choking hazards then actually play things, tossed across the roof. Learen was forced to dance upon them to keep from losing his footing and falling off the roof.
Jumping high, Learen flipped through the air to landing true on his feet. He rushed Father Winter, but encountered a gift basket of over scented candles. The smell driving him back to his rear. His hands movig to his face as he sought to escape the powerful scent of old vanilla and stale butter cookies. The Gnome sliding down the rooftop until he held on to his nose with one hand and a gutter with the other.
"You can't hold on long after I use this!" Father Winter pulled out a bath and body kit. The soap rolling it's slippery way over the thin metal.
Learen scoffed., and grabbed for a better hold "I am a tested member of the SI-7. I wont lose my grip that easily, Fatty Macfatterson."
"You think it was to lubricate the surface so you fall off? No, everyone knows that these gifts contain a substance that causes a delayed allergic reaction. Your days are number, Gnome!" Father Winter threw his head back and laughed loudly. Certain of the Gnome's eventual demise at the hands of over price beauty products.
Learen had not been expecting this. A great swing and he scrambled to a window ledge. It was his last hope. Throwing it open he rolled inside and escaped that toxic substances.
Father Winter looking over the edge of the the building. "You think you can escape? Are you forgetting who you are dealing with?" Then he rushed over and jumped feet first down the chimney after Learen.
O0O0O0O0O0O0
Goldenleaf arrived off the Deep Tram. He glanced around madly. Hoping to find out where the duel between Father Winter and Learen was taking place. If he helped defeat the nasty Gnome, maybe Father Winter would relent and give him his precious steam tonk he desired so much.
He rushed out of the Dwarven District and around through Cathedral Square in a mad rush. Barreling head long into a smaller form. They both landed hard on the cobble stone in a nasty impact. Goldenleaf hitting his head and shaking it with a groan as he came up.
"By the Light of Elune!" A voice screeched out taking to a banshee wail that could have broken the will of any lesser being nearby. "What where you are going!"
"My apologize but I am in a rush too..."
The silver and gold of their glowing eyes met and Goldenleaf paled at who he saw before him. "Astarii. What are you doing here?"
"Golden, my love!" She scrambled over to his side as fast as she could move. The face twisting in panic as she saw the blood seeping down the side of his face. She reached out to almost touch him. "Please forgive me, darling Goldenleaf. You are injured, and it is all my fault." She had tears forming in her eyes as her hands went to his head examining his wounds.
Goldenleaf grabbed her wrists and pushed her back hard. "I'm fine. I don't even feel it. Get off me." He climbed to his feet. Dismissing the woman, now that he knew who had impeded his path. Then the weaved of dizziness hit him and be crumpled back down to his knees.
"You are hurt badly, Love." She moved her hands over his body as the Light of Elune's healing grace formed within them. "I will heal you. Just stay still while I work."
Goldenleaf felt the power of Elune closing his wounds and the pain and dizziness vanished."Thank you, Astarii. I am good now. Really. You can move away."
"You should really rest a moment. Perhaps there is more damage that we do not see." She looked around wildly. Seeing the box that had dropped and skidded across the cobble stone. She moved to retrieve it. Looking at the package the silver eyes widened. "This is from a famous jeweler in Ironforge! One of my favorites. How did you know?"
"By Elune." Goldenleaf looked to the sky and wondered why the Goddess had forsaken him.
She opened the box and saw the shining gems perfectly inlaid in white gold. "My Goldenleaf!" She pulled the box to her chest and then threw herself over him in hugs and adoring kisses. "My most Beloved Goldenleaf."
All Goldenleaf could think was when he saw Khadgar again, he was going to kill the Mage.
O0O0O0O0O0O
Learen watched as Father Winter emerged from the fire place in the lower level of the home. The Candy Cane sword leveled at him as the fat dwarf charged in. Learen raised his chainsaw blades to block the attack. He moved to slash the candy sword, but it only grinded along the side and slipped away. Looking in shocked disbelief at what had just happened.
"The magic of Winter Veil, Gnome! Give yourself over to fate. You can not beat me. I have the power of everyone's love behind me. You have nothing but yourself, runt!" Father Winter laughed over at him.
"As you already know, fat man, I never give up!" Learen tucked his head and rolled in, knocking Father Winter's feet out from under him. Coming up across the room near a small table top tree display Learen reached down and started tossing ornaments at Father Winter.
Father Winter batted them away easily. Some of them merely bouncing to the side while other fragile glass ones shattered and rained sparking dust around the room.
Then with a quick hand Learen reached to his belt. Pulling up a Gnomish grenade. He pulled the pin with is teeth and threw it toward Father Winter. Then turned and ran up the stairs for all he was worth.
Father Winter tried to toss the grenade back before it went off, but it was to late. Poof! To his relief it was not an explosive. Then he realized it was worse It was worse, a left over mo-hawk grenade that destroyed his jovial beard! The long flowing hair was gone in a perfect up do.
"Learen! You are a DEAD GNOME!" Father Winter belted out as he ran after his intended victim. "I will KILL YOU!
O0O0O0O0O0O
"You did this didn't you?" Pyrasong tried to pushed back her tears as she slapped the flat of her hand against Lor'themar's beautiful face etched in perfect ice.
"No. Really, I was told that they had ice carvings out here from some of the other tourists. I never dreamed they were the real thing." Chelinka set her mitten hands on her rosy cheeks. Looking around wondering if there was anyone who could save the poor Blood Elves before the Spring thaw. "I would try and get them out, but I don't know if the heat from my fire magic would harm them."
Khadgar dropped his arm over Chelinka's shoulders. "I think they look splendid. You really should take the credit, Chelly." he looked down at her with adoring eyes. "Admit it, only you could get them frozen so exquisitely as this."
Chelinka could not help but lean her head closer. The bright eyes looking up at him. "Archmage, really. You are going to get Pyrasong believing I really did this to them."
"Oh my wondrous Leaders!" Pyrasong fell to her knees in the snow. "What will we do without you?"
O0O0O0O0O0O0
Learen held his back against the large wooden door, as Father Winter shouted for him to move aside. The sound of his voice echoing into the streets as he promised a painful death. The attempts to break down the door equally as loud.
Learen looked around the room. This was where his evening had begun. There on the floor near the bed was the very dead body of Elder Lord Remington. A deep breath to fortify himself, Learen jumped away from the door. It burst open and splintered against the wall. The great heaving pants of Father Winter as he rushed in swinging at Learen.
The agility of the Gnome jumped around avoiding the blade. It smashed off the table, busted up chairs, and swept decorations off the walls and shelves. It was very obvious each strike was intended to be the killing blow. Finally Father Winter pinned Learen up against the bed. Driving his blade home, but Learen rolled out of the way. The candy cane impaling into the body of Lord Remington.
Father Winter's eyes grew large as he tried to pull his weapon out of the corpse's chest. The sound of foot steps could be heard om the stairs as the Stormwind Guards flooded the home due to the call of disturbance.
The last thing Father Winter saw of Learen was a mock salute as he vanished from sight with the time honed skill of a practiced Rogue.
It was a mere five minutes later that the guards hauled the certifiably insane Father Winter out of the Remington home.
Learen watching from his position on the roof. Turning he smiled at the gravity defying Sleigh, his reward for defeating his foe. Winter Veil had finally come for Learen. No one else was going to get anything, but hell, this was present was years over due.
O0O0O0O0O0O0
Over at the SI-7:
"Master Shaw! The Mistletoe is still growing out of control. We are still barricaded inside and cant get out!" Amber cried out. "Why did Sheylann do this to us?"
"Oh I have an idea. Believe me." Shaw looked over at his men, with a guilty look.
O0O0O0O0O0O
Learen stood by the cell doors in the Stockades looking at his defeated nemesis, Father Winter.
"I know ya are there lad." The Dwarf growled with menace. "What I don't know is why you have come?"
"Because I want to know why." Learen grabbed hold of the bars and pressed his little face against them. "Why were you always so cruel to me? I can't remember ever doing anything to start this feud."
The evil light came to Father Winter's eyes as he looked up. The same one that was always there when he saw this Gnome. "Too bad, cause I am not gonna tell ya. It is your curse for running Winter Veil forever."
"Winter Veil isn't ruined. It will live on in the good spirit it was intended." Learen tossed back.
"And who would be telling you that load of lies."
"I heard it from a Warlock." Learen pulled away and nodded. "Anyone who needs you or your rotten presents, to have a good Winter Veil, was never truly happy to start with. That's the thing about false happiness, it never lasts. Now you rot in there. I have people to manipulate and lie too."
With that Learen left the Stockades in search of the other great humanitarian Lord Bascomb. Knowing full well, things would probably not turn out much better for that Lord as they had for Father Winter. All hail the SI-7.
Happy Winter's Veil!