Straydog Saga

Flea 15: Arrival and the Reunion

Orifiel waited in one of the small, branch-made reception rooms the Pinnacle Bow with energy coursing through her tapping feat. Though the action seemed impatient, the bubbles that were brewing within were filled with a lighthearted nervousness. The response from the Earthen Ring was not only favorable but smile-evoking as one of the names mentioned was one that lingered in her long memory. The images of many warm nights on her first big mission spent dancing and drinking sweet nectar wrapped her mind in a colorful ribbon. Romulus had met the group days before, providing tours and other light hearted activities before their proposed work was to start. She paced around the small foyer, doing her best to keep her helm on straight as it shifted with her shaking movements. Orifiel felt her shoulders jump a little as she heard Romulus's voice just a few steps beyond the doorway. The sound of many pairs of footsteps ascending the staircase made her breath catch in her throat. She did her best to calm the beating heart within, all anxiousness seemingly vanquished at the sight of a familiar, bright eyed face. Though she often remained poised, stoic, and aloof to her subordinates, Orifiel could not help but crack a wide smile as a friendly squeal was sent billowing her way.

"OREE-FEE-EL! It has been so long time!" The young looking woman with perfectly polished hooves, vibrant violet skin, and delicately angled horns spoke with a heavy accent. Long, curled black hair seemed to act as streamers as she ran forward, much to the horror of her associates, and gave Mydrassil's steward a huge bear hug. The action sent Orifiel's hood-like mask flying from her face and to the floor but the smile beneath eased all tension in the Earthen Ring members' faces.

"I-I'm to assume you two know one another, Lady Whitedeer?" Romulus chuckled as the hug persisted.

"Violetina and I go way back." Orifiel admitted, trying not to suffocate in the shaman's loving iron grip. When the ordeal was over, Violetina patted her old friend on the shoulder and took her by the hand, leading her to where her fellow shamans stood.

"I was so happy when you call me! I start tinking you forget me…" Violetina pouted but the action was short lived. Orifiel shook her head and nervously laughed.

"How could I forget you? I've just been so busy."

"I can see, nice big tree, strong and tall. You and Set do a great job. You sure you not a druid?" Violetina asked as a few of the others humored her small joke. Orifiel motioned to the other shamans, whose shifting stances told of their growing discomfort. Romulus cleared his throat. "O-Oh yes. Sorry I forget myself. Let me introduce!" Violetina moved with a girlish hop over to where the rest of the druids stood. Like a tour guide of the elements, the perky Draenei motioned to each of her fellow shamans and friends in introduction.

"Tis is Jango, he is lead healing shaman on team. Best wit water element." The green-haired troll bowed, long mammoth-tusks nearly touching the floor.

"Next is Mar'duk. He is best wit fire." Violetina said, watching with smiling eyes as night elf and young orc bowed in mutual respect.

"Short one is Tel-ma Torn-Beer—"

"Thelma Thornbear…" The dwarf sighed with a tone that visited the correction many times before.

"Tat is what I say, Tel-ma Torn-Beer. She is expert wit eart element. You know me, Violetina best wit air element. And ah…" Violetina looked to the last person in their group. Her questioning look seemed to wait for approval. The elder shaman nodded and moved to remove the hood that covered his warn green face.

"Head shaman, Trall, best at all elements." Violetina nodded. Orifiel's eyes went wide at the sight of the blue eyed orc she had only read about in adventure stories. His hair was mostly grey with a few youthful black strands remaining. The lines in his face were deep but the power and resolve behind his calm eyes seemed to be bottomless.

"T-Thrall? Sir it is an honor. I didn't expect Earthen Ring leadership to send you for this project. " Orifiel bowed low, a slight flush running to her cheeks. The action caused the elder orc to chuckle and take a step forward.

"There isn't any need for that, Ms. Whitedeer. We stand as equals. Leadership recognized your request as extremely important. Please do not deprecate the crucial work you do here." Thrall nodded. Orifiel, barely able to keep her feet firmly on the floor, straightened and did her best to keep her composure.

"I don't know if I can agree, sir. But I hope that my task does not prove too tedious for someone who has done what you have done for this world." Orifiel spoke, quickly reaching for the mask on the ground and placing it over her flushed face. Thrall did not press the matter but cast a scolding look to his team members, who seemed to think the night elf's reaction to his presence snigger-worthy. Orifiel motioned for the group to follow, deep into the center of the tree. The younger shamans marveled at how the white branches moved at the steward's touch and seemed to respond to her silent thoughts. When the group reached the center of the massive bramble of branches they entered a narrow room, the woven walls seemed to reach beyond the sky. In the very center of the room was a column of swirling energies, both arcane and elemental. Three mages stood in a triangle around the column, each straining to keep the chaotic energies in balance. In the very center of the column was a large, stony object that seemed to shine from within.

"Whoa, what is dat?" Jango marveled as the object slowly turned on an invisible axis in the constant flow of energy.

"This is why I requested your presence." Orifiel turned with a small smile before allowing the mages to finish their incantations and take a break. The flowing energy seemed to diminish greatly, and only the very basic magic that held it aloft remained. "This is the fruit of the White Branch Initiative's labors."

"Does not look like fruit..." Violetina tilted her head. Orifiel sighed and continued.

"It's a figure of speech. This is the result of years of development and implementation and now we've reached the final stages of its completion."

"What exactly IS it?" Thelma interrupted, eyebrow raised and expression slightly sour. Orifiel paused for a moment, going through the right words in her mind.

"Since the tree was planted in such a strange and historically powerful place, we needed to ensure that the chaotic energy it fed on did not corrupt the tree or attract corrupters. The diamond itself acts as remnant, a purified and harmless left over of the cleansing process. But as a precaution we continuously ward the gem, checking for any signs of corruption or tampering. The druids and light-workers have run their scans, and Lord Redmane's mages are completing there's. The final step in the process for this gem will be the elemental warding. That is where you all come in." Orifiel motioned for the shamans to approach the circular platform at the base of the column. Four of the five nearly felt their legs collapse in the presence of such power, while Thrall found himself wincing at the brightness reflecting within the gem as its radiance stung his aged eyes. Orifiel waved her hands around the radiant gem, coaxing it to dim its inner light. Though the brightness did diminish, the four young shamans still found their legs to be shaking.

"This task will take some time." Thrall warned but his questioning gaze met a cool, unnervingly peaceful smile.

"You have all the time in the world."

Shandori struggled to keep an even tone as anything above a whisper seemed to make the elf in the apple cart beside her wince. Christoffel's wound was growing, the black sludge that was once his own flesh crawled its way further into his system. The sight of once benign tumors along his chest, swollen and green, nearly made Shandori look away. But it was her attention and her voice that kept Christoffel conscious as he was carried in a small fruit cart on loan from F-bomb's furbolg friends. The group surrounded the ailing elf as Shandori held his weak hand and spoke. Sometimes the words were soothing, other times they were about mundane nothings. Each time her voice began to fail, Chris would make his best attempt at words to keep hers flowing. Daggerfang, healed by a renewed sense of purpose lead the pack, sniffing for any sign of company in the lush, dreamy landscape. No one could see the dread in his blazing gold eyes but his hair was even and his steps were relaxed. Nothing that could come from the bushes caused his quickened heart beat, but what could be waiting for him in the sacred town just rising over the small hill.

Nighthaven's rooftops brought a glimmer of hope to Shandori's vision as she assured Chris that they were nearly there. When they entered the placid village, all eyes seemed to be transfixed on them. Some recognized the scarred night elf to be the very same person drawn on many wanted posters. But all who would have acted looked to the hulking Tauren guards and continued about their business. Daggerfang flipped through the images in his memory. He memorized where the small pub was and a few of the shops of interest. When his keen vision caught sight of a tall wooden sign with an even cross, he waved the cart-pullers on. When they reached the entrance to the modest hospital, Daggerfang helped Ima lift Chris from the apple cart and onto his motionless feet. A young night elf woman immerged to greet them. She took a step back with a gasp at the sight before her. Despite Christoffel's horrific state, it was Shandori's face that caused her to take another step back.

"He needs help!" Shandori spoke, in a voice so diminished it hardly seemed to come from the lips of the lawless warrior. The young druid froze, looking to Christoffel for a moment before resting again on Shandori. When she slowly began to shake her head, a roar nearly sent her falling backwards. The curses that flew from Shandori's mouth caused Christoffel to wince but give a weak chuckle.

"S-Shut 'er up. She's killin' me." He joked, coughing a little as he spoke. Shandori quickly clamped her mouth shut but her words did more than cause him discomfort. By then onlookers were beginning to gather with curiosity and slight disgust at the scene. Those who were bold enough to comment at the sight of a blood elf in the caring arms of a night elf quickly found themselves hushed by Maiev's fierce vision.

"What is goin' on out there?" A shrill voice, asked from within the infirmary doors. A tall human-looking woman with long brown hair and deep chestnut eyes immerged. Her druidic garb flowed behind her as she hurried down the steps to stand beside the night elf nurse.

"My Lady, we have a problem." The night elf nurse turned to find a look of worry on the druid's face.

"I'd say so, what 'appened to 'im-YOU!" She shouted, worry quickly changing to outrage as the furry vision of Daggerfang overtook the sad sight of Christoffel.

"Er…'ello, love. Life treatin' ya well?" He asked with a nervous, fang-filled grin. A growl came from deep within the druid's throat as a small wind started swirling around her. Darkness rose where the human woman once stood and when the energy abated a great chestnut colored worgen stood in her place. The snarling beast of a woman slowly approached, claws glistening with anger and mouth hungry for the flesh at Daggerfang's throat. Meryld instinctively pulled F-Bomb and Ima out of the fuming worgen's path.

"Eliza, darling, sw-sweetie, buttercup? C-Calm down, people are watching!" Daggerfang yelped as Eliza crouched, ready to strike.

"Um, EXCUSE ME, but we have a poisoned elf over here that needs some medical attention?" Shandori desperately looked for anyone in the strange scene who would help as she struggled to hold Christoffel up. She looked to the night elf nurse who briefly met her gaze but turned and ran back inside. Shandori felt her heart sink as a small stream of black blood started trickling from the corner of Christoffel's cracked lips. Maiev found her mind quickly racing and in the split second it took her to make a decision in battle, she stood between Daggerfang and his certain death.

"My lady, I do not know what the scoundrel has done to you but the blood elf needs help. The forsaken poisoned him and we fear he doesn't have long to live. You may slaughter this pathetic dog later, if that is your prerogative. But we need to hurry if he is to live." Maiev reasoned, hands up and weapon safe at her hip. The snarling Eliza's pin-straight mane hair started to sink as she stood and spat. Her eyes met Maiev's own, questions answered in the stern and steadfast silver gaze.

"If a night elf elder such as yourself can speak for the blood elf then surly 'e is worth saving. As for YOU…" She motioned with her snout to the cowering rogue. "Stay the 'ell away from me." Eliza Sagepaw turned and quickly came to Christoffel's side, lifting him over her shoulder with ease. She called for her nurses. Though there were 10 on duty only two would rise to answer her call for such a patient. The young troll and matronly tauren helped prepare a bed and salves until the druid could fully determine the severity of his condition. Sagepaw requested that the group remain outside until nightfall, giving her and her team enough time to stabilize the elf as more black ooze dribbled from his mouth onto his chest. Daggerfang led the group to Nighthaven's only pub and proceeded to buy the first round.

"Least I can do for puttin ya all through that." Daggerfang sighed as he placed everyone's drinks of choice well within grabbing distance.

"What WAS that? I've never had so strong an instinct to flee in my life!" Meryld snorted as she took a swig of dwarven ale. Daggerfang looked to the floor for a moment, stomach turning a little before speaking.

"She's my ex wife."

"Wow, rough…no pun intended." Ima spoke and patted the worgen on the shoulder.

"Nah, she is a sweet 'eart. What 'appened was mostly my fault anyhow. Don't blame 'er a bit." He said as he downed a double shot of cheap whiskey, bottle waiting beside him for another tilt. Shandori silently sipped her stout, eyes burrowing into the table in front of her. The sounds around her seemed to grow fuzzy as her own thoughts began to break into jagged shards, cutting into her composure. She did her best to steady her beating heart. She knew by the lack of vocal concern from Ima that her state did not escape her tired mask.

"W-what happened, if you don't mind me askin?"

"Sorry gobby, maybe in a few drinks." Daggerfang said with a sad smile as he lifted another brimming shot glass. He downed the short with a snarling face and placed the empty glass on the table with a pop. "Our boy's in good 'ands though. If she wanted to spite me she never woulda taken 'im in, in the first place."

"Well I hate to seem insensitive but I did not like the looks those people were givin us. The sooner we get to my winter home the better."

"She's right. It wont be long until someone notifies the authorities and the sentinels are here, then we'll really be in trouble." Meryld nodded, pushing the thought of an inevitable ambush out of her mind. It was then that a great figure made himself known. The hooves that carried him seemed to rattle the floorboards.

"I'm sorry for eaves-dropping, but you have little to worry about."

"Potan!" Ima smiled as the sight of the feral druid filled their vision. She stood, and quickly gave the tauren a warm hug.

"Greeting, Imajin. You look well. I see your friend has gotten much better since last we met." Potan smiled to Shandori, no longer covered in painful fel burns, who responded with a polite nod.

"Wait, wait! What was that you were saying?" F-bomb asked with perked ears.

"If you are worried about either political faction sending agents to claim you here, there is no need. The guard is made up of all druids and that bond is stronger than any side. At most those who seek you would have to demand your extradition and that would give you all plenty of time to flee." Potan nodded.

"Still, it's my shit that got us in this mess, well mostly." Shandori looked to Meryld and F-bomb, mind quickly snapping back to the present. "Meryld, the sentinels don't know you're involved with me and F-bomb is easy enough to hide or disguise. The two of you should leave for the safe house as soon as you can. Make sure it's ready and actually safe. Daggerfang…" She turned and looked to the worgen who was preparing to take another shot. "It's up to you. As far as I'm concerned you don't owe anything anymore." She shrugged. Daggerfang responded by downing his next drink with a snort.

"We'll see…" he sniffed.

"Maiev, err…you uh, you just keep doing what you do." Shandori spoke with a slight tremor in her voice. Maiev merely looked to her with pale, thinking eyes. The group spent enough time in the pub for all their drinks to go bone dry. Meryld and F-bomb prepared to leave, offering hopes and prayers as they laced their walking boots. Potan offered to give those who remained a tour of Nighthaven, but only Imajin agreed. Daggerfang purchased another bottle of whiskey and curled up at the bar. Maiev decided to take her own path through town and disappeared into the shadows.

Shandori made her way to the hospital, though the sun was still shining through the thick leaves. She walked into the lobby to find the night elf nurse glaring at her from the counter. Shandori cast the girl a bemused look and took a seat in the waiting room. Hours passed and just as the sun cast its final rays through the open window, Sagepaw stood in the waiting room door. She coughed a little to remove the light slumber that had the night elf in its grip. At once Shandori was on her feet, eyes grasping for any clue to her companion's condition.

"How is he?"

"Come with me." Sagepaw turned and led Shandori through a small corridor. After taking a flight of steps, to the highest floor, they came to the room where Christoffel lay, resting. Shandori's heart sank at the sight of his pallid skin and sunken expression. It was as if someone took black ink and traced patches beneath his eyes.

"I take it you are not his next of kin?"

"N-No just…a friend."

"Right. Well, 'e's stable for now but it really depends on 'im. The poison was actually a form of the forsaken plague. The amount wasn't enough to melt 'im outright but it 'as caused a great deal of internal damage. It may sound crude, but you could literally suck 'is insides out with a straw."

"Thanks for that." Shandori snapped, but shook her head in apology. She took a seat in the small wooden chair beside his bed and folded her hands in her lap. "So that's it? We wait for him to die then?"

"Not quite. You see those nasty tumors? Well they sucked up a lot of the poison, which is great. The only issue now is removing them before they start growing into his ribcage. The veins have all but collapsed in them, which means there isn't much of a risk of blood loss from removal. But with the levels of poison in 'is blood there's no telling if 'e'll survive the procedure. My nurses and I will prepare daily potions and salves to try and shrink the tumors and cleanse the poison left in 'im before we attempt to remove them." Sagepaw spoke as she began grinding some plants in a small mortar and pestle.

"How long?"

"A week or two if 'e lasts that long." Sagepaw grunted, huffing a little on the crushed plant material. She poured the sour smelling oil into a vial as she prepared to grind a hunk of earthroot to add to the mix. Once done the fresh ointment was ready to be administered. She walked over to where Shandori sat and handed her the vial.

"If you want to 'elp 'im, spread that over the tumors. It's better with a less…rough 'and." Sagepaw snarled as she held up her rough and calloused paws. Shandori didn't ask why the druid couldn't just shift back into her human form, as glinting teeth and a foul mood kept her lips from moving. Shandori turned and moved the blanket covering Christoffel, exposing the open wound and hideous tumors.

"The black ooze is devoid of poison. It won't 'urt you. All that's left is in 'is blood." Sagepaw sighed, stony golden gaze falling upon the pair. She gave a nod and started towards the exit. "You may stay as necessary. I will ensure that you will not be disturbed. I 'ave other patients to see." She gave one last look before taking her leave. Shandori sighed and popped the stopper on the vial and poured the greasy contents onto the rogue's chest. He gave a sharp breath at the stinging sensation but Shandori's touch allowed him to exhale. He managed to open his eyes but his vision was still fuzzy.

"Hey there, sunshine." Shandori whispered as the smell of rotten flesh caused her nose to wrinkle. "Bleh, or should I say stinky."

"H-Hey." He rasped with a small smile. "What'dya think yer doing there, missy?"

"Rubbing oily crap on your gross chest, what's it look like?" She playfully jibbed, careful not to press too hard on the vein-ridden tumors that seemed ready to burst.

"Damn, gotta get hurt more often." He smirked, with a pained look following the action.

"Or not." She shook her head. "If I'm going to have my hands on you I'd rather them not be covered in yuck."

"If you play your cards right." He tried to laugh but the action caused him to wince.

"Shhh, you can talk dirty to me later. The druids say you're in the clear, so long as you relax and stay off your feet."

"Not what I heard, but thanks for trying." Chris sighed. He did his best to sit up but his attempt didn't even prompt Shandori to stop him. His vision started to clear, that was when he saw it. The first time it made an appearance, he thought it was his mind playing a trick on him but there it was. The look of vulnerability, of honest concern was there, plain as the scars on her face. Christoffel found it impossible to look away. Shandori looked to him with pleading eyes, that none, not even her own mother was privileged enough to see. She looked away but continued her work.

"You'll be alright. You were near dead when I first found you, you'll get through this. If you don't I'll-I'll reverse haunt you! Yeah, you'll be all one with the light and stuff and when you least expect it, BAM shield to the face." She gave a false laugh, eyes too engaging in their pearly sorrow. Christoffel felt a soothing warmth in his chest, far deeper than what the salve could reach. With all the strength he had, Christoffel lifted his hand and placed it on top of one covered in his suffering flesh. Christoffel managed to close his fingers around hers, which was just about the same size as his own. There were no words for the rest of the night, just quiet hopes and assurances as the moon hung in the window, keeping its silent watch in the cool but uncertain night.