A/N: Please note that this is of course Fan Fiction, therefore the events described would be slightly deviated from the orginal telling.
And nope, I in fact do not own Warcraft or anything else I write about.
Chapter 13
Kael'thas Sunstrider again stood before his people on that low stone stage. The weary, yet rested Elven soldiers gathered behind him, ready to march. In front stood all those who were unable to fight, and barely clinged to life. His voice boomed across the encampment.
"Again a time has come where we must sacrifice more lives. There is always more to be expected of you, as well as all of us. Pray for a swift and triumphant return," the Prince said.
For the things that the Prince said on that stage that morning, those words would burn into the hearts of all those in attendence. During his long speech, he gave no indication of the objective, no statement of the mission that he was about to lead. Kael'thas's fear of traitors within his sight was very strong, and he wished no more advanced warning than the one of him already being here.
He concluded his speech to the sound of thunderous applause. Then he stepped down and began to walk in front of all the soldiers. They formed a long column behind him as they came to a halt in front of the entrance. Several horses stood waiting, and Arlandria was slightly shocked when she was called forward for a horse of her own.
"Thank you Prince Sunstrider," she said and saluted.
"Of course, Generals are not meant to walk in front of their triumphant soldiers," he said as he leaped onto his white horse.
Arlandria mounted her horse and turned to observe the soldiers under her command. They looked better now than yesterday, many still sickly looking, but their armor and weapons were repaired and shined with the sun. Many of them looked eager for battle and a chance to strike rather than fear of moving away from safety. The majority of them however, would be under the strict command of Prince Kael, as they were his chosen that marched out of Dalaran with him.
The formation began its march as the cheers of the crowd were still going strong. Officers on horseback under the command of Kael broke apart from the front to reinforce the sides and rear of the column. Arlandria rode close to the Prince, two senior Archmages rode on each side of him as his personal bodyguards at all times. The pace of the march was quick and light, all were informed that speed was of the essence, but it was more important that their energy was conserved. Prince Kael looked back and motioned for Arlandria to move foward.
"Are you aware of the objective General?" the Prince asked.
"To recapture Silvermoon," Arlandria quickly said.
"Yes and no," said the Prince. "Our mission is to reap the heads of the traitorous Elves that have taken residence inside the walls of Silvermoon. Most notably the head of Dar'Khan and his followers who have opened the way for the Scourge and slaughtered countless Elves during the invasion."
Arlandria paused in thought, realizing the actions of this man could have lead to the death of her children, the death of so many of her people, of Sylvanas.
"As you well know because of our limited size it is impossible to hold Silvermoon," the Prince continued. "But we must try to hold it long enough to destroy the Sunwell and claim vengence. We should be within the city for no more than an hour. Do you understand now General?"
"Yes My Lord Sunstrider," Arlandria chanted back.
"Lead your Rangers next to my soldiers, it is crucial to not divide our forces within the city. Do you have any questions?" he asked.
With Arlandria's full understanding of the plan, she had only one question to ask.
"Am I to be a true General?" Arlandria asked.
"That was the wish of Lady Sylvanas, I believe she saw you as being worthy. But today you must prove that to me. If you are indeed capable, then you will be appointed in the ceremony tonight, along with the heads of Dar'Khan and his minions," Prince Kael said.
The sun passed the center of the sky as the surviving Elves came within sight of Silvermoon. Prince Kael and Arlandria lifted their hands in unison to signal the column to increase their speed for the quick rush to redemption.
End of Chapter 13
