New Soldier of the Legion

"Congratulations, Legionnaire Seona!"

A large gathering of local citizens cheered and shouted for the lady dwarf, blushing slightly as she stood on a chair in the local tavern. She smiled and thanked them all, telling them that drinks were on her, which got another, even more enthusiastic cheer from those gathered. Below her, a young human priest looked on, smiling and cheering with all the rest. Once the congratulations died down a bit, she hopped off the chair, her armor clanging a bit as she hit the floor, the priest wincing a bit at the noise, but patting her on the back enthusiastically.

"Fandren, pass me that ale, would you?" she asked, sitting down on her chair next to the young priest. He smiled and complied, pushing his dark hair back from his eyes, watching his friend take a long drink from the tankard.

"Congratulations, sister. I never thought I'd see the day that you become a soldier." He said, laughing a bit. Seona laughed too, the blush on her face compounded by the ale, but her eyes sparkled clear in the lamplight.

"Ah, I never expected this either, Fan. I'm glad you could take a night off from your duties to celebrate with me."

Fandren smiled, lifting his glass to her and downing it in one gulp. "Of course, sister! When a former priestess turned Paladin enlists in some private army, you have to come join in the fun. Plus, when do I get this much free beer?"

They laughed together, enjoying each other's company and the company of the various Stormwind citizens that knew them both from the Cathedral of the Light. Fandren, young as he was, had only one more drink before he was starting to reel a bit and Seona decided to call it quits. After another round of loud congrats and cheers, and Seona squaring the tab away with the bartender who eagerly thanked her, the two slipped out and walked back to Cathedral Square, Seona leading her black riding horse and Fandren attracting neighborhood strays with leftover bread and cheese from the tavern.

The streets were relatively quiet this late, the working men and women of the city at home asleep and the die-hard tavern-goers still drinking at their favorite establishments. The two made a strange pair, but there were few if any to see them: the short, stocky, armored, lady dwarf and the tall, thin, young, dark-haired priest, both walking a little crooked and laughing together.

Fandren stopped when they reached the canals and looked out over the water. "I suppose this means I'll get to see even less of you than I do now, doesn't it? Now that you're well and truly a soldier." The laughter was slowly fading from his voice and Seona turned to look up at him.

"I suppose... I suppose that's true, Fan," she sighed. "My duties to the Kingship will have to take precedence and we're stationed almost exclusively in Northrend or on the various fronts. I'll have less and less time to spend here in the city."

Fandren sighed, too, turning to the short paladin. "I miss you, you know? The other priests don't understand me they way you do." Seona nodded, and he continued, "I'm doing more and more with the Redridge militia when I'm not in the city. I actually spend as little time here as I must, these days." Seona glanced sidelong at him, but remained silent, listening to her young friend. "Brother Ben and I simply don't get along anymore. We butt heads every time we meet, it seems, over differing philosophies. We don't hate each other, of course, but we aren't friends."

Seona shook her head. "Fan, Brother Ben is just... well, he's-" "An idealist," Fandren interrupted, a sour look on his face. "He's an idealist in a world that needs more realists. He wants me to be this pure bastion of the Light and I'm just not. I've been studying Shadow magics, Seona, and I'm right. I know I'm doing the right thing, nothing you or Brother Benjamin will do can change that in me."

Seona looked up to her friend. "Fandren, look at me." He hesitated, but finally turned and looked down into his friend's face. "Fandren, you are my closest friend. You are like a brother and, sometimes, like a son. And I don't mean 'brother' as in the fact that we're both of the cloth, I mean family." He glanced away, but Seona kept his attention. "I'm not ashamed of you or what you study or what you do. I've done..." She paused for a moment, looking, briefly, to the north.

"I've done some pretty terrible things in Northrend. Things that had to be done because no one else was there to do them. Things that would make Brother Benjamin no doubt call for my excommunication from the Church. Things that might even make you look at me sideways." Fandren started to protest, but Seona silenced him. "No, Fandren. I don't blame you for looking for other ways to walk your path. Shadow magics were something I couldn't stomach, not because they're evil, which I don't think is true at all, but because they weren't for me. I decided to completely start over, learn a whole new set of rules. That's not for everyone. Obviously you're doing okay. Obviously the Light hasn't forsaken you. Brother Benjamin would do well to take that into consideration the next time he sees you."

She turned back to the canal, watching the moonlight reflecting on the water, her stallion shifting lazily and sniffing her hair. Fandren was silent beside her. The two stood together, quietly, for some time before Seona sighed again. Fandren glanced down and laughed.

"We're such an odd pair, Seona. Me the Shadow priest in training, and you the priestess who turned in her robes for some armor and a hammer." He sighed as well, and turned toward the bridge. "Come on, then, sister Seona. There's a warm bed waiting for us at the Cathedral and a good night's rest. You need to wake in the morning to prepare to return to the fronts in order to become a great soldier of the Kingship's Legion!"

He cheered then, and ran over the bridge towards the square, Seona hot on his heels, dragging her tired horse and shushing him while they passed sleepy-eyed city guards. "Seona the Paladin! Seona of the Kingship! Seona the Legionnaire!"

Into the North

"Seona! Seona, you in there?" Fandren's voice carried through the open doorway into the women's dormitory at the Cathedral of Light in Stormwind. The young priest dared not enter the dormitory, off-limits to men with dire consequences if they entered, but if he had heard the rumor right his friend wouldn't be in Stormwind much longer.

As it was, the young paladin was inside, packing the rest of her things. She sighed, knowing that Fandren missed her. They never got to see one another anymore, what with her being so busy with the Alliance army. She was needed by so many and had less and less time for her old friends. Checking one last time to ensure all her things were squared away, she shouldered her pack and closed the door to the small room behind her.

The dormitory door was standing open to allow the fresh breeze inside and Seona could see her young friend framed in the doorway. He's so young, she thought. He still has so much to learn, too. I wish Brother Benjamin would just let him do as he pleases. He'd be so much better off.

"Seona! There you are. Is it true? Are they finally sending you north? Are you taking the ship to Northrend?" Fandren's eyes were filled with a fearful excitement. He knew what awaited those who went into the cold north, but only the most well-trained warriors and soldiers went there, and he was jealous. Seona just sighed and nodded.

"Oh, Seona, be careful! Is there anything I can do for you before you go? Or maybe we can visit a nearby tavern and have a drink together before you leave." Seona, surprised at the suggestion, actually thought it was a good one.

"Aren't you a bit young to be drinking, Fan?" She asked, jokingly. Fandren laughed.

"Come on, Seona! I'm a man grown now! I can do as I please, no matter what others want to think." She hid a frown. He makes comments like that more and more often now. I know Brother Ben can be difficult, but he certainly seems to not take this seriously. She shook her head. No, can't think about this now. He's my friend, not my student or my responsibility. Plus, as he said, he's a man grown. Whatever he does is his choice. I'll not mother him.

"Come, then, Mister Fandren," Seona joked. "Lets get me squared away for my journey and we'll have a goodbye drink at a nice pub. Maybe I'll introduce you to some good dwarvish beer." With that, the two of them walked out of the grand church to the streets of the Cathedral District. The square was relatively quiet this time of day, but Seona had business to attend to.

They made their way to the canals. A well-known leatherworker there had agreed to repair Caliburn's tack and fit it with fur lining. She paid him the remainder of his fee after looking over the craftsmanship and had him deliver it to the Cathedral stables. Her next stop was an armorsmith where Fandren nearly knocked over a display of a full suit of armor. After his apology and a hasty clean-up, she spoke with the blacksmith.

"You'll be ready, m'lady. I've nearly gotten all your steed's armor fixed up and ready. I've tightened a few of the looser bits as well, without changing the fit, so you'll be safe against anything you come across, whether it be Scourge or a simple beast." Seona nodded, handing over the gold for the work. "I'll just have it delivered to the stables for you, then, m'lady Lightstone."

Seona thanked him and continued to her last stop, a small tailor shop at the end of the canal. "I need new blankets for Cal. It's going to be cold up there and I can't have him freezing to death." Fandren frowned. "Didn't you purchase a gryphon? Why bother with Caliburn's tack when you've a way to fly?"

"Unfortunately flying in cold weather like that is much harder than in warmer air, both for the rider and for the beast. On top of that, Zephyr is less protected against the freezing temperature. It takes more than a blanket to keep a gryphon warm in the sky. It will be some time before I'll be able to afford to prepare him for flight in Northrend. Besides, Caliburn could use the exercise. I spent nearly all my time in Outlands in the sky on Zephyr. He deserves a rest."

With that, she pushed open the door of the tailor shop and finalized her purchase of the new and much warmer saddle blankets and armor lining for her charger. With a smile and a nod of thanks, she was nearly done. Fandren, beginning to look terribly bored, smiled when she emerged from the shop and asked, "So, we finally ready for that brew?"

"One last thing, and then yes, we'll go for a drink."

"What could you possibly be still missing? You've packed, Caliburn is resting and will soon have entirely new tack and repaired armor... what am I missing?" Fandren asked, ticking off the places Seona had been on his fingers, confused.

Seona giggled. "I have to meet with my estate manager, Ziir. He'll meet us in the Dwarven District, near the tram station. Let's not keep him waiting, Fan, he's an intimidating fellow when annoyed."

Seona made her way through the streets of the human capital with the young priest on her heels. The Dwarven District was easy to distinguish from the rest of the city, both from the billowing smoke from the many blacksmiths and engineers' work, but also because most of the people were her height. For once, she wouldn't have to crane her neck to speak to people, though poor Fandren would no doubt have to stoop or even kneel, if he wanted to talk to any gnomes he may pass on the streets.

The archway entrance to the station came into view through the smoke. Near the entrance, a tall, heavily armored man stood, his bald head easily visible, his spiked helmet held under his arm. The few people moving to and from the tram gave him a wide berth. When he turned, Fandren gasped, realizing just what he was and why people avoided him. Cloistered in the Cathedral as much as the young priest was, he hadn't seen any of the Death Knights of the Ebon Blade up close. Seona smiled reassuringly and strode confidently up to the tall human.

"Ziir! Good to see you, my friend." She reached out and the death knight turned her way, stooping to take her hand.

"M'lady Lightstone. A pleasure, as always. Who is your companion?" Ziir turned his blue-glowing eyes towards the very nervous-looking Fandren, who, to Seona's pleased surprise, stuck out a trembling hand. "F-Fandren, sir. Forgive me... I haven't met anyone like... um... with your... condition."

Seona sighed, but Ziir seemed unaffected by the young priest's rudeness. "Quite alright." He turned to Seona, "M'lady Lightstone, I understand you have a great deal for me to process, correct? If it's all the same, I dislike Stormwind and will take the packages back to Ironforge straight away." Seona nodded and reached into her large traveling bag for a few smaller, but obviously heavy packages. "Ziir, I've picked up all this in Outland. The second bag is filled with nothing but skins. I had to send the ore shipment separately, so expect that in a few days. Did you have anything else for me?"

The death knight took the heavy packages and shook his head, handing over a small note and a bag of coins. "No, just the funds you requested. I'll do my best to keep you posted, but mail has a difficult time getting to and from Northrend as I understand it. Godspeed to you, m'lady Lightstone," he turned to Fandren and bowed, "Fandren. May we meet again."

With that, he turned back to the tram station and entered, his back fading into the darkness of the tunnel and out of sight. Fandren sighed, relieved, and Seona smiled. "Well, I guess that's that. Let's go get that drink now, Fan. First one's on me." Fandren nodded, still trying to shake off the strange feeling he got from meeting a real Death Knight, and followed his short friend into the nearby tavern.

They found a nice, secluded table and ordered drinks, reminiscing about old times, when Fandren was a young child, an orphan like Seona, and how they became friends. She told him stories of Outland and the things she had done there, of Zangarmarsh and it's strange, etherial beauty, of Nagrand and the strange, floating islands and waterfalls, and of the ogres, orcs and draenei that made there home there. He told her of the rumors in the church, about his simple life as a student in the Cathedral, about the troubles of Stormwind and the people living in it.

They laughed and talked into the night, the dwarven paladin and the young priest, but in the end, Seona had to end it. "I'll be boarding the ship before dawn, I think," she told Fandren, his smile slowly fading. "I'll miss you, Fan. I don't know when I'll be getting back, either. You should focus on your studies more, so you can eventually leave the Cathedral. Brother Ben doesn't want you as a student forever!" she joked, only realizing after that it may be in poor taste, considering their strained relationship. Fandren, luckily, was slightly drunk and waved it off.

"That would please him, no doubt. Eh, don't worry about me, Seona. I'll be fine. You're the one that has to be careful, now. Up north, it's a different land, or so I've been told. Strange people up there, and strange dangers. The Scourge, some kind of half-giant people, terrible beasts... no. You watch yourself, I don't want to have to say prayers for your spirit, or come down to the docks to pick up a coffin, something the priests are doing far too often these days."

She reached across the table to her friend, and he grasped her smaller hand in his own. "Thank you, Fan." She said, a tear escaping to roll over her cheek. "Oh, look at me, you're going to make me cry!" she chided, a smile on her face again. Fan laughed too, though it was only half-hearted.

"Write to me, Seona. Sometimes I feel like you're the only person in the Church that understands me." Fandren gave her hand one last squeeze, then let it go. "Oh, one last thing before we head back to the Cathedral... where in all the hells did you find that Death Knight to care for your finances?! I thought I was going to piss myself, he scared me so much!"

Seona laughed, draining her mug. "I'll tell you on the way back to the church. It all started when I was patrolling Elwynn Forest, months ago..."

----------**----------

Seona stood on the dock, the strange, dim light of the false dawn illuminating the wooden planks just enough for her to see. Caliburn snorted, restless after being ridden so little over the last weeks and knowing that great change was coming. He pulled at the reins a bit, but Seona gave a small tug and a look that would melt steel and he settled, not ready to face her ire this early in the morning.

There were no other soldiers waiting for the ship, and Seona was beginning to wonder if she had walked onto the wrong pier. A dockhand finally appeared from the shadows of the nearby boxes and crates stacked for shipping and walked over to the paladin. "Waitin' for the ship to Northrend, m'lady paladin?" she asked. When Seona nodded, the dockhand pulled out a small ledger. She checked it, turning pages quickly until she found what she had been looking for. She bent down a bit to get a better look at Seona's face, then nodded. "You're Seona Lightstone, Paladin?" When Seona nodded, she continued, "I've got it down that you have a single pack and will need space for one horse. Looks like you're all set, then. If the seas weren't too rough, The Kraken will be here soon enough."

The woman walked closer to the end of the peir. "Speaking of..." Seona followed her, telling Caliburn to stay where he was. There, on the horizon and quickly getting bigger, a ship was coming in. It slowed as it got closer to the harbor, and the dockhand quickly moved to the large bell that was situated at the end of the pier. She rang it, the clear sound carrying over the water and around the harbor, letting everyone within earshot that the ship was coming in.

It was huge, much larger than the ships Seona had ridden on before. The dockhand came back to stand beside the short paladin and pointed to the ship that was now preparing to dock, slowly approaching the pier. "They covered her prow in metal armor to allow her to break through the ice up north. She's powered by a steam engine, too, thanks to the gnomes and dwarves, so she makes good time." She stooped to pick up Seona's luggage and placed it near the crates of supplies that would be going along as well.

The ship was at least twice the size of the sailing ships the Alliance used to get from the Eastern Kingdoms to Kalimdor. The armor that covered the prow was beautifully shaped to form a gryphon's head. Seona could see scratches, though, near the water's edge. She couldn't imagine ice on the water that could scratch metal like that, but she imagined she'd find out soon enough. The steam engine made a terrible racket as well, nearly spooking Caliburn, but her hand steadied him. "Come now, Cal. That engine can't be worse than all the things you've seen at this point."

Finally, the enormous ship came to a stop at the end of the pier and the dockhands quickly unloaded its cargo. Seona was sad to see that some of the things unloaded were coffins. She sent a prayer to the gods for the dead and prepared to board. As she led Caliburn up the ramp onto the ship, she turned her head to the wind. Strangely, it smelt of winter, salt, and ice.

She was ready. She was ready to face the cold north, to fight the Scourge where it lived. She was ready to become stronger than ever before. She was ready to finally find Arthas... and help bring him to Justice.

Northrend, Seona is coming. Are you ready?

Into the Skies of the Outlands

It was terribly hot, but then it was always hot on the peninsula. Affectionately called "Hellfire Peninsula" by the soldiers stationed there, the broken land was characterized by its orange hue, dark skies, and the countless demons that made their home there.

Seona Lightstone, paladin of the Alliance, was riding south at speed, making for the outpost of Honor Hold. Her horse, Caliburn, was accustomed to the harsh conditions at this point and would barely snort at the flames that occasionally erupted from the reddish soil. He was far more concerned when one of the huge sand worms would pop out instead, but even then he'd simply swerve away, allowing his rider to jump off and deal with the threat.

Seona swore a bit as another plume of smoke and flame erupted to their right, closer than she'd like. "I could feel that one, Cal. We'd better get away from this ridge as soon as it's safe." A few Helboars scattered as they pushed onward, squealing and grunting in their wake. Seona ignored them, her eyes fixed on the horizon where the broken keep could be seen through the shimmering heat. Honor Hold held more than just the Alliance. It also held a well-known Gryphon breeder.

For weeks, the lady paladin had been in constant contact with her estate manager back in Ironforge. As soon as she had heard that the gryphon rider and breeder were relocating to Honor Hold she had asked about her funds. She knew the prices would be steep, but learning to fly was not just a dream... it was a necessity. Caliburn had served her well, would continue to serve her well, but the ability to fly would make her tasks far simpler and more efficient.

The broken walls of the keep were looming above her as these thoughts went through her mind, and she breathed a slight sigh of relief as they passed guards and neared the stables. She slowed Caliburn to a walk and looked around for the Wildhammer dwarf that trained the soldiers to fly the gryphons his people so carefully bred for the Alliance army.

She spotted him near the stables, once filled with Alliance warhorses, now home to various young gryphons ready to be sold. He was a solid-looking dwarf, and obviously a Wildhammer. Older, his hair and beard solidly silver, he was nevertheless quite intimidating in his barbaric looking armor and his face covered in the tattoos his clan favored. Still, Seona wouldn't be intimidated. Dismounting, she led Caliburn forward.

He noticed her approach and waved her forward. "'Ere for trainin'?" he asked, his demeanor all business. Seona nodded. "Very well. I'm Hargen Bronzewing. I 'eard you'd be comin' from the guard. Yer Seona Lightstone, correct?" Again, Seona nodded, a little more comfortable. She had done some work for Honor Hold before moving further north to the Temple. It seems her work was remembered.

"Me fee is 540 Gold. Ye can purchase a gryphon from me sister, Grunda, once you've mastered my techniques." He waited, then, patiently, as Seona reached into her pack to sort out the gold. A steep fee indeed, although she got the impression that her standing with the Honor Hold guard may have worked in her favor. Once the money had changed hands, she prepared for her training.

"Truth be told, ye won't need to learn too much new from me. Ye have a good seat on that beast of yourn already. Could see tha' as ye rode in." Seona blushed a bit at the compliment. "I'll jus' teach ye a few new commands fer a gryphon and how to saddle 'em up. Ye've ridden gyphons before, o'course..."

The lesson took only a few hours, but despite his warning of not learning much, Seona found her head filled with all kinds of new information. How to saddle a gryphon, what they ate, how to care for their feathers, how to groom their fur, the commands for flight as well as the ground, how to tell if it was ill or injured... it was a great deal to take in. Still, Hargen was a good teacher and had her flying perfectly by the end of the lesson, as well as saddling and grooming a gryphon without mistakes.

"Good. Ye're ready," he said, clapping her on the back. She smiled, thanking him.

"Master Bronzewing, might I ask for your opinion?" Seona asked, nervous about picking a mount from the collection in the stable.

He smiled. "O'course. I'm glad you did, actually. I know these gryphons like they're me own children. Seeing that beast of yourn already, I know ye can handle something a bit more stubborn. I think I know of a good match fer ye."

Hargen lead her through the stable to a young, golden gryphon. His piercing eyes seemed to look straight through her. He was a proud animal, and intelligent. She didn't reach out to him right away, getting a nod from Hargen for her prudence. "Smart lass. He's a bit of a handful, at first, but once he knows who's boss, he'll settle right down fer ye. He's got endurance and has a bit of growing to do yet. Regardless he'll serve ye well, if ye pick 'im." With that, he turned and left, no doubt needing to train another to ride.

Seona peered into the gryphon's eyes and knew she'd take him. Not just because Hargen thought they made a good pair, but because he seemed familiar somehow. "Tha's a good lad. Finally found yerself a rider, then?"

Grunda had come up quietly, her armor much like her brother's and her face sporting similar tattoos. "'E may not be as flashy as some of our other stock," she said, gesturing to the pure white and the darker varieties of gryphon in the stable that caught the attention of so many other riders, "But he's a good heart. And he'll serve ye till the day 'e dies, 'e will, if ye prove ye can 'andle 'im."

Seona smiled. "I'm certainly willing to do so."

She gave up the last of her gold to Grunda, paying for the beautiful, golden gryphon. Her training fees had already paid for food, supplies, and tack for the animal, so it was simply a matter of leading him out and saddling up.

"I'll call you Zephyr," she whispered, swinging into the saddle, and taking off, the heat falling behind as they spiraled up into the dark, starry sky. "Zephyr."

The First Battle: 5 - Durotar and the End

The zepplin made good time, with favorable winds, and the dusty, hot lands of Durotar soon came into sight. The hot, steamy night of the jungle had given way to a cooler, drier night of the desert. The Alliance, eager and ready after their flight, prepared to jump from the zeppelin as it neared the tower.

Orgrimmar glowed in the night, smoke from bonfires billowing out and up into the night sky. Seona was surprised at how big it looked from the air. She had little time to enjoy the view, however, as the zeppelin came to a halt at the docking tower. A roar from below caught her by surprise, and she yelped. Orcs, trolls, and other members of the Horde poured from the city fully aware that the zeppelin wasn't carrying friendly passengers.

Many of them, she saw, wore the same colors. She quickly asked Gildaroy who they were.

"Nyx," she replied, then grabbed her hammer and leapt from the zeppelin. Seona protected herself from harm using holy Light and jumped after her, soaring through the air to the ground below. She ran, then, charging with the rest of the soldiers from Grom'gol into the fray.

Within moments, she blacked out.

.: * :.

She was no match for the hardened Horde warriors. Nyx and their allies seemed to be unending, their numbers so overwhelming and great that with numbers alone they pushed the Alliance back all the way through Razor Hill, a small Horde outpost on the road to Orgrimmar, and to the river and across into the Barrens. Seona awoke in the dirt, vague and hazy memories of a grey world, and realized that she had nearly died. Every bit of her hurt, and she counted bruises as she tried to stand.

Realizing she was soon going to be behind enemy lines, she quickly called Caliburn to her and in a flash of Light he appeared. That was no doubt highly visible to the enemy, she thought, and grabbed onto his saddle to hoist herself up, urging him to start running even before she settled.

She caught up with the other Alliance soldiers and crossed the river, narrowly missing being bitten by a river crocolisk. They hissed loudly as she and Caliburn plunged past them through the water and up onto the Barrens bank. The other soldiers of the Alliance stood there, nursing wounds and bandaging up their comrades.

Beaten but not broken. They stood their ground, regrouping and fighting off the Horde that soon surged across the river after them. Seona, knowing that she couldn't face the Horde warriors in her current state, stayed clear, blessing the Alliance fighters and healing when she could. On occasion, she'd try to destroy one of the Horde totems that their shamans planted to give them strength and speed. A bad idea, in the end, as she was, yet again, struck down from behind.

When she awoke this time, the Alliance morale was gone, too many had fallen, and it was time to make a strategic retreat. The loud, gnome mage, now called all to her as she created a portal to Theramore isle, warning those that were near that she couldn't hold it open forever. Just as she did, the Horde returned, regrouped and in even greater numbers than before. The few Alliance left now stood no chance whatsoever. Zappie, knowing it was futile, shouted one last warning, and stepped through her portal, knowing that soon enough it would close behind her.

Seona and most of the other members of the Kingship hadn't been close enough or in time. The horde stood there now, and the portal was closing anyway. They turned and ran. North, ever north they went, along with other soldiers. Lord Cendall stayed behind, buying them some time as they made their way up to Ashenvale, to Astranaar. They staggered into the town, the Night Elves stationed there tending to wounds and giving them some measure of safety.

Lord Cendall wasn't behind them. The Kingship stood, waiting, at the archway into the town, hoping to see him on the horizon. Nervous, they began wondering where he had gone, a few even saying they'd turn back, go get him. Then, there he was, his loud motorcycle coming up the road. They were all bruised, all beaten.

Thanking them for their service, he dismissed them, telling them to get some rest. Saluting Lord Cendall and then sighing with relief, Seona reached into her saddle bag for her hearthstone, activating the magic that would take her back to the Hinterlands where she'd get a nice malt beer and a warm bed under the mountains. As wild as the Hinterlands were, they would be tame compared to this night.

_____________________

((Note: These events happened (with some literary liscense, of course) during the Strands of Fate storyline run by Al'shar lo Dor'ano, an RP guild on the Emerald Dream US server. More specifically, it has to do with the Prisoner Transfer that occured during that storyline, where Al'shar was going to move a Nyxian ambassador for trial, when things got rather out of hand. ;) All in all, I had a blast, and all of the above happened over a few hours at night one evening. It was much more fun than questing in the Hinterlands, let me tell you. Still, I desperately am trying to level Seona up to 80 so that the next time something like this happens, I won't be a bump on a log, I'll actually be able to do some damage back.))

The First Battle: 3 - The Dark Woods

The trees of Elwynn forest passed in a blur as Seona rode hard to keep up with the other soldiers. All of their steeds were the finest gold could buy, perfectly trained for war, swift and enduring. Poor Caliburn did all he could to keep up, but he was young and stumbled on occasion. Seona patted him, whispering soothing words to help him along, and they managed. Anaara, the young rogue, rode a beautiful battle-cat of the Night Elves, but her beast was also young and far slower than the chargers and huge steeds of the more-experienced soldiers. Seona smiled encouragement, though, and the rogue returned the favor.

The light grew dimmer as they entered the thick of the forest. Seona knew this land fairly well, and slowed Caliburn before they plunged into the river that divided the Elwynn forest from Duskwood. Looking out over the slowly flowing river, she could barely see the dark and forbidding woods standing like dark soldiers along the opposite bank. A curse seemed to hang over the Duskwood, but the other soldiers were pressing on and Seona wasn't one to show cowardice. She urged Caliburn down the bank, and he obediently went, splashing down into the river and swam towards the other bank.

The deep dark enveloped them as they emerged from the water on the other side, and Seona shivered. A long howl echoed in the distance and something skittered away into the dark. Caliburn shook a bit and sidestepped, uneasy, but Seona steadied him and pressed him onward into the woods.

Huge spiders were in these woods, but they payed them no mind as they passed through to the road up ahead. Other soldiers were already climbing up the steep hill to the road and Seona followed suit, finally breathing a little easier as Caliburn's hooves clattered onto the solid, cobblestone road. Lantern-light flickered in the distance, evidence of the Darkshire militia and guard. They ran up the road to the small town, slowing to a walk as soon as the buildings surrounded them, protective.

She could see on of the leaders speaking with a member of the Darkshire guard, no doubt filling him in on what we were doing here, that they should keep their eyes open for the Horde. Milling about, Seona glanced around the town, realizing that not much had changed since her time here. The guard was still under-manned and under-supplied. She could have sworn that she had passed a scourge abomination on the way up the road, thankfully dead on the path, but obvious evidence that the dead refused to stay still in these woods. She shook her head sadly, wondering why Stormwind refused to send aid here, to its own backyard.

They waited for some time for more instructions, or from news of sighting of any horde, but there was nothing. Many of the soldiers were getting impatient and Seona was nervous. Was this normal? Were they just to wait here? She patted Caliburn's armored neck again, and checked her gear. Gildaroy noticed her nervous movements and asked her if she was okay.

"Just a little nervous." Gildaroy chuckled a bit and offered her a flask. "Thank you, but I'd rather keep my head clear." Seona smiled, declining the drink.

"You needn't worry. This is the best bunch of soldiers in all of Azeroth." The paladin nodded, "That I can see."

Commotion from the front line caught Seona's attention. Murmurs swept through the many mounted soldiers as curious citizens looked on. Whispers reached Seona's ears. -They retaliated?Where? -We should take them all out! -Waiting here is foolish, especially if they've hit the border. -What are our orders? -New orders are sure to come soon, be calm. -Steady on, men. - Horde have been spotted in the Jungle! -The Rebel Camp? Then, orders were shouted from the front. "We're moving out! We're riding to Stranglethorn! Show no mercy! Show no quarter! For the Alliance!"

"FOR THE ALLIANCE!" the soldiers shouted in response, and they charged out of town, riding full speed for the bridge to the south that served as the entrance to the hot, steamy jungles of Stranglethorn. Seona gulped and followed, doing all she could to keep her nervousness from showing too much. Anaara, urging her cat forward with the rest, kept near. I'll stick close to her on the road, at least, Seona thought, and urged Caliburn on.

The dark began to lift a bit as they neared the bridge where the trees thinned out. Clattering hooves echoed out over the woods as the front line charged over the bridge that spanned the gorge separating the jungle from the woods. Sounds of battle soon reached Seona's ears as well as the foolish Horde who had attacked the rebel camp on the border were dealt with. She followed as the group turned south again and plunged into the jungle.

"Onward soldiers of the Alliance! Onward to Grom'gol! Take out any Horde threat on the way!"

Seona charged and roared with the rest, the zeal and excitement of the fight and hard ride sweeping her along. Grom'gol was near and the Horde wouldn't know what hit them.

The First Battle: 2 - The City

The gryphon soared over Elwynn forest, the city's lights in view in the early dark. Night had fallen as Seona flew, but luckily the gryphon knew the path to the landing platform even in the low light. Over the wall, down over the moat and into the gryphon roost, straw scattering as they landed and Seona jumped off, waving in thanks as she made her way quickly out of the building.

Outside, the commoners were buzzing about a commotion in the canals near the Stockades, the city prison. She summoned Caliburn with a flash of Light and rode as fast as she dared in the narrow streets to the canal district. Sure enough, a great many Alliance troops were stationed all around the prison. Had another riot started? Were the Defias finally pushing their way out?

She found another member of the Kingship, a fellow lady dwarf Paladin, Gildaroy, standing battle-ready near the prison's entrance, patiently waiting with other troops for any orders. Dismounting and pushing her warhorse out of harm's way, Seona joined her, a bit nervous, though she did her best to hide her feelings.

"Welcome to the party, lass." Gildaroy said, her lilting voice quiet so as not to interrupt the chatter of the officers positioning troops. "Ready to dance?"

"I suppose. I just hope I know the steps." Seona replied, taking her place in line and pulling her large mace from it's holster on her back.

Seeing other troops arriving, Seona gathered holy Light and whispered blessings over the newcomers, giving them extra energy and strength. As more and more fighters arrived, she began feeling far more self-concious, realizing she was vastly less-prepared for battle than these hardy warriors. All of them had seen far more fighting in their lives, and were much more experienced.

She turned back to Gildaroy, whose eyes remained locked on the entrance to the Stockades. "Why were we called? The Defias giving the city trouble?" The paladin just shook her head. "No, lass. Far as I c'n tell, there're some Horde holed up in there. Don't know any more'n that."

Horde! In the city? Seona gulped and turned back to the entrance. She heard sounds of a skirmish in the distance, near the other entrance to the prison, but she didn't move from her spot in the line. She had more discipline than that, at least. She didn't notice the people shifting around her until he stood at her side, silent. She jumped a bit when Cendall, called out, "All members of the Kingship of the East, to me! Find me at the edge of the Canal!" Turning to him, Seona noticed he looked a bit tired and worn out. She wondered how long he had been here, and what on Azeroth was going on, but wasn't about to ask him directly, seeing as he was too busy gathering his troops.

The two warriors in front of her were whispering, both bearing the colors of Al'shar lo Dor'ano, and Seona turned to concentrate on their conversation instead.

"Yes, far as we can tell, Horde made it into the prison and have fought their way through to him."

"You think they'll make it out of the city with him in tow?"

"We have a good group here, but they are crafty. They made it in, didn't they? We'll have to be on our toes, at any rate."

"If they escape? What then?"

"We no doubt will go after them, try to take him back."

Seona's eavesdropping was interrupted then, by a very strong-looking Night Elf warrior riding his large cat, also bearing the Al'shar colors. Seona recognized him immediately as Commander Leikos, as he had been at the picnic the day she had been inducted as a recruit of the Kingship. He seemed a bit out of breath, and yelled out, "Move back! Back from the entrance!" All of the fighters complied quickly, catching Seona by surprise. She followed their lead, wondering why, if they're trying to keep the Horde from leaving, they would move further away from the entrance. She didn't have long to wait for an answer.

The entrance of the keep exploded in a flash of arcane energy, blinding her and most of the warriors around her. The Horde had set some kind of magical explosion, either as a distraction, or to blow a hole for them to escape from, or at least, so it seemed to her. Unfortunately, it worked. On the other side of the keep, she could hear the sounds of fighting and the roar of something big and angry, and most probably green. Orcs.

Confusion from the explosion had everyone off guard, and chaos ensued as the various fighters tried to push them back or bar their way. Leaders barked orders and Cendall moved through the mass of fighting with precision, his athleticism and stealth a huge asset, but the fighting stopped suddenly, leaving many of the forces surprised and unsure.

Mages quickly determined that the energy surge had been a portal, not a bomb as Seona had guessed. The Horde could be anywhere, now. "Mount up! Mount up and meet at the city gates!" Commander Leikos rode past, and Seona called Caliburn to her. Swinging quickly up into the saddle, she rode hard through the streets with the other members of the Kingship nearby, Gildaroy to her right on her charger and Cendall on his huge motorcycle in front, following the Kaldorei. Poor Cal could hardly keep up with their pace, though Gildaroy pulled up a bit to keep pace. Seona smiled in silent thanks and other dwarf returned the gesture.

The city gates were soon in sight as they regrouped and awaited orders. Leaders were given assignments and many groups broke away and rode off into the night. First a group of Night Elves, to scout out the roads leading from the city; then, a gruop of gnomes, all bristling with bombs and gadgets, led by a very excitable gnome mage, rode their mechanical striders off into the west; a small, mixed group of humans, dwarves, and draenei rode off towards the east. Cendall went ahead and soon returned with orders to head for Darkshire in Duskwood and scout the area, making sure to call out any enemy sightings along the way and engage to slow them down.

The Horde was on the run and needed to be caught, along with whoever this "him" was from the prison, and Seona was going to do her damnedest to ensure they didn't get far. Riding off into the Elwynn forest, though, she began to wonder just what it was she had gotten herself into.

The First Battle: 1 - The Call

The Hinterlands were slowly darkening as the sun dipped down below the mountains. A cool breeze danced through the trees and finally found the paladin sitting upon her warhorse. The lady dwarf sighed, turning her face into the wind, a small smile on her face. Brown hair wound up in a loose bun tried to fall free, but was unsuccessful as the breeze passed, ruffling her dark tabard on its way down the valley. The golden, two-headed eagle on the sable field seemed to glow in the dimming light, and Seona Lightstone shifted in her saddle.

A long, low howl came from the distance and her eyes opened, alert for any potential danger. The warhorse's ears pricked forward as well. Leaning over, the young paladin patted her warhorse's armored neck. "Easy, Caliburn, easy. Sounds like the beast is still some way away." Caliburn snorted in response, one ear flicking back to listen while its twin remained forward, waiting for another howl. The abnormally large wolves of these lands were known to take down fully-grown gryphons.

Seona turned Caliburn back to the west, giving him is head as they headed back to the keep. The Wildhammer dwarves were wary of strangers, but she had been working with them for the last few days and they were a little more open towards her now. They didn't turn her away, at least.

Just as she was entering the Dwarven town, she heard a call come from her guild stone. Muffled from her pack, she slowed Caliburn and reached down quickly into her saddlebag, pulling it out.

"Any who can, please, come to Stormwind! Our aid is needed at the Stockades!" The voice that came from the stone belonged to Cendall Fost, one of the Lords of the Kingship. Seona, worried, immediately spoke into her stone in reply. "If my hammer can be of service, I will be there, though I'm not the most seasoned." The stone immediately responded, again with Cendall's voice, "Join us in the city, Seona. Make for the Stockades, near the Canals."

"Yes, sir." She altered her course, then, pushing Cal to run up the ramps to the keep's gryphon master. A few quick words and she had a flight to the city. Hopefully whatever was happening in the city would be kept in check by the troops stationed there. She wasn't lying when she had said she wasn't seasoned. Regardless, she'd do her part, one way or another. Her eyes locked onto the horizon and she gripped the gryphon tight, willing it to fly faster.

The Kingship of the East

The humidity was nearly unbearable in the jungles of Stranglethorn. Seona Lightstone, paladin, had just arrived from Duskwood, and was making her way south towards the Goblin settlement of Booty Bay. Caliburn's easy, fast gait was eating up the road, carrying her easily past paths that led off into the dark and steamy jungle. Large animals could be heard rustling in the vegetation, and an occasional roar from one of the rumored big cats, like the Stranglethorn tigers, would echo out over the trees.

Swatting away mosquitos, Seona sighed heavily, allowing Caliburn to slow to a walk for a bit after all the traveling. She had heard that the goblins were hiring for many odd jobs around the jungle, and paying decent enough wages, so she had made her way down from the human lands. She was beginning to regret the decision, though, as another insect decided she tasted delicious and bit down.

If her recent plans were to come to fruition, though, she'd need the extra coin. Some days ago, she had been in Stormwind and had overheard a knight asking about local guilds and political groups. He was well established and well known, and she had listened, eager to hear what would be recommended to him. Most of the groups mentioned were well enough, but the one that caught Seona's ear was a new kingdom, a new human kingdom that had signed a treaty with King Varien Wrynn to protect and claim some of the northern territory in the Eastern Kingdoms for the Alliance. They called themselves the Kingship of the East, and they planned to retake the lands that had once belonged to Lordaeron and return them to the Alliance.

She had then made her way to the Stormwind archives to do some digging, and realized that this "Kingship" was an excellent organization, very after her own heart. She applied for citizenship and now had to wait. Certain criteria needed to be met, such as more training, as well as plenty of time set aside to speak to one of the high-ranking members of the Kingship's government, such as it were.

Seona was only slightly nervous about the interview. She had heard that it was often the Queen herself that sat with new applicants, a prospect that made Seona a bit queasy, as she had never dealt much with royalty. Her life had consisted of wandering and helping refugees, not sitting in on tea or socializing with the elite or aristocracy. Still, this Kingship seemed like an excellent new nation, and one that didn't seem to require more than loyalty and honor and a little sacrifice to regain lost lands. Seona wanted to belong, and they seemed to accept just about anyone who didn't fit anywhere else.

Caliburn's ears pricked forward and his pace picked up. Seona looked around and realized the breeze had changed, carrying with it the obvious smell of salt and sea. They were nearing the coast and their destination. "Come, Cal. Let's get there." Not needing much encouragement, the warhorse picked up the pace again, following the rough road. They rounded a bend and came face to face with an archway created from the giant jaws of some huge sea shark. Each side was flanked by a bored looking Goblin in full armor. They didn't even bat an eyelash as she nodded to each and continued on, through the ominous arch.

The tunnel beyond the shark's tooth gateway was made of wood and was damp from the water below. Caliburn's hooves echoed hollowly on the planks. The light at the end was in sight, though, and it opened to the docks of Booty Bay. Merchants were calling out their wares, here, and Seona hadn't seen this many goblins in one place in all her life. Ships came and went from the main dock, crates of goods were being unloaded, and both Alliance and Horde walked between the shops, an uneasy, fragile truce between all involved. Booty Bay Bruisers, their clubs gripped tightly, eyed a few Trolls who were making rather menacing gestures toward a Draenei and Human. Seona just shook her head and turned north, following the upper deck of the town.

The whole place looked like it was constructed out of a fleet of ships, dismantled and stacked up on the shore of the cove. Come to think of it, that's probably exactly how the Goblins came to settle here. Seona giggled a little to herself as she passed a shop that looked exactly like a boathouse on a ship. She made her way to the end of the dock where a large, multi-story inn stood. She stopped by the local gryphon station, glad to see that the Alliance had enough pull among the goblins to make travel here easy, and then stopped at a mailbox.

Surprised to see she had a message, she dismounted and took the note. It was a simple parchment, with a seal she didn't immediately recognize. Confused, she opened it, only to smile wide. Her application had been received and processed by the Kingship's government. This was an invitation to join the high-ranking members of the Kingship in a Royal picnic in Elwynn forest. Her smile fell, though, as quickly as it had appeared. The date for the picnic was for today. There was no way she would be able to travel all the way North to Stormwind fast enough. Not unless...

She raced back the way she had come, back up to the Gryphon master. She knew this was a terrible long shot, as most gryphon masters only allowed rides for official business for the Alliance army and forces. The Gryphon Master looked a little surprised to see her again so soon. "Wha' c'n I do fer ye, Lass?" Seona, a little out of breath, gasped, "I need to get to Stormwind." He looked a bit confused. "O' course." Now it was Seona's turn to be confused. "You... you aren't going to ask for orders? Or a reason?"

Gryphon Master Gyll laughed. "Ha ha! Nope. Nobody worries much about such things 'ere. 'S long as ye can pay, lass, ye get a ride." Seona couldn't imagine her luck. She payed the fare, a little more than she expected, Gyll explaining about some sort of Goblin tax, and the gryphon soared off, over the jungle.

_.:| * |:._

Seona had ridden into Goldshire after summoning Caliburn back to Stormwind, only to discover a small Horde raiding party had gotten into Elwynn forest and attacked. Dismayed, she slowed and stayed out of sight, realizing she was no match for the mages that were laying waste to the small, normally bustling town. No luck, she thought to herself, but was quickly surprised by a loud shout from the road.

A human man stood there, in full armor, backed by a large group of warriors, paladins, mages, and others. They wore tabards Seona recognized, the golden, two-headed eagle on a sable field. The Kingship of the East had arrived for their picnic, but first, it seemed, they'd get some entertainment.

There were at least twenty of them, all fully armored and prepared for battle. They charged into the Horde mages, dodging spells and striking back, outnumbering them. Seona, overcoming her shock at suddenly seeing the very people she had been waiting for, quickly rode towards them, gathering the light around her and blessing all she could get to with spells of protection and strength. The Horde didn't stand a chance against the small army, and were quickly dispatched.

The warriors laughed, making their way to the nearby lake, and Goldshire came alive again, the citizens coming out of their homes and the Inn doors opening again. Seona followed close behind, shy. The Night Elf priestess that had stood close by the human's side noticed her and approached. Senoa dismounted and bowed low.

"Thank you," she said, nodding. "I am Kristyl Da'Kien." Seona gasped and bowed again. "Your majesty." Kristyl smiled. "I am Seona Lightstone. It is a great honor to make your acquaintance."

"Ah, Seona. How good to finally meet you. Come, it's safe with us by the Lake. Join us, won't you?"

Campfires were already being lit, and most of the group had removed heavy armor to reveal festive clothing beneath. They were relaxing under the trees, some fishing in the lake, others conversing around the fires. The tall, graceful Night Elf walked to the nearest fire and sat near the human warrior who had led them into battle. "Seona, please come sit near the fire. No need to be shy."

Blushing, Seona approached. "Seona, this is my husband, Hinik Da'Kien." Seona bowed again. "So good to meet you, your majesty." King Hinik smiled and welcomed her. Once they settled, the priestess asked, "So, Seona, how did you hear of us?"

Seona explained how she had overheard the conversation in Stormwind and discovered more about them. Then the queen asked, "Why should we let you join our Kingship?"

Seona thought about what she should say. She mentioned her loyalty, that she was trustworthy, though she knew trust had to be earned. Then, she said, "I will also uphold the honor of the Kingship, in all matters, both great and small."

Kristyl, who had been listening, smiled wide. "Those were the words I was waiting to hear. It is with great pleasure I welcome you to the Kingship of the East, Seona." She then reached into a nearby pack, and presented the paladin with a tabard and a magical guild stone. The two-headed eagle shone in the firelight, bright against the sable fabric, it's golden embroidery glinting.

Blushing even deeper, Seona smiled and accepted them both, bowing again. The nearby members of the Kingship applauded and welcomed her, a new recruit into the fold.

"Now, enjoy yourself, paladin."

She did, surrounded now by new acquaintances who would no doubt become friends, comrades, and, more than that, family, in time.

Warhorse: 5 - The Training

Seona followed Fandren down a few hallways, all in the same, simple stonework. They crossed s small courtyard with green grass and even a few flowers blooming where sun manages to shine. Each side of the small yard had a door, but the two on the right and left looked identical except for color. Fandren and Seona appraoached one of these, painted a light yellow, and Fandren stopped.

"Obviously I can't go any further, as you know. I've been told that a room has been prepared for you inside, just on the right. The door should be standing open. As I understand it, more paladins are arriving tonight and tomorrow, so you should have neighbors soon enough. Rest well, Sister."

Seona bowed in thanks, and Fandren nodded, turning to walk back the way they came. Seona sighed and pushed open the yellow door, and entered the ladies' dormitory. The long, low-ceilinged building was just one hallway with doors along each side, each leading to a small room, some had two beds, while others only had one. Seona was lucky that she got here when she did, as she was given a room to herself, and since all these rooms were built for a human, they seemed large to her. No one else was in the hall and most of the rooms doors were closed, though the second on the right was left open. No doubt this was her room.

She stood in the doorway, taking in the small room. There was nothing special about it, being square and very plain, with a simple bed across from her. To her right, along that wall, stood a very simple desk and chair, a quill and inkpot atop it's surface, and Seona guessed that there would be a few sheets of parchment in the small drawer. One small chest stood at the foot of the bed, though it had no lock. The walls were whitewashed and bare, though the window that looked into the courtyard above the bed gave a nice view and plenty of light. It was a room for a priest: open, minimal, and clean. She sighed and dropped her packs on the floor near the desk, closing the door behind her.

Collapsing onto the bed, she thought about the things Fandren had said, and how Brother Benjamin was dealing with his more outspoken and difficult student. She worried about the teacher's generally strict demeanor when it came to Fan, as she guessed that it was pushing him away from the Faith, rather than drawing him in. Try as she might, though, she could think of no way of convincing Brother Benjamin to let him learn on his own. She'd never tell him, never let him guess, but his strenuous teachings nearly turned her from the Faith as well. She simply found a better outlet, in the end. Perhaps after her training here, she'd speak to one of the paladins stationed here in the Cathedral. They might have some insight and advice for her friend, perhaps even a place for him among their ranks.

Seona didn't know when she fell asleep, but she suddenly realized she was dreaming. One moment she was staring at the ceiling, thinking of Fandren and his troubles, and the next he was there, standing next to her. He couldn't be there in truth, as the ladies' dormitory was entirely off limits to men, and even her rather mischevious friend wouldn't break that rule.

They were standing in what appeared to be a huge battlefield, the ground covered in snow, churned by the feet of hundereds of soldiers, their yelling and screams audible over the howling wind. Their armor was strange to the paladin, completely unlike anything she had ever seen before, though some of it held a strange familiarity to her, almost like it could have been designed by her people. Many of the designs were geometric, at any rate, and all of it looked ancient. She was glowing in the dim light, the snowy landscape cold and dark, though the Holy power of the Light pulsing through her and her large hammer illuminated those around her, but Fandren...

Fandren was like a cloud of dust, barely visible. He looked like a dark ghost, and his body pulsed with Shadow energies, absorbing the light. He was speaking words she couldn't hear, as if in a foreign tongue. Repulsed, Seona pulled back. Suddenly, she was grabbed from behind, a huge man, tattoos covering his chest, and long, dirty, matted hair waving in the chill wind, lifting her small form above his head. Fandren uttered strange words, dark energies lashed out at her attacker, and she fell again, and kept falling, down, further and further...

And landed on the floor. The howling wind continued, occasionally whistling through a crack in the window above her bed. A small rain storm had cropped up in the night, turning the already dark courtyard completely pitch black. Her heart pounding, she pushed herself back up and stood, smoothing out her shirt. She had fallen asleep hours ago, still in her traveling clothes. Shaking her head to clear it, she walked over and opened the door. Small torches along the walls illuminated the hallway in a comforting, flickering light.

It was empty and quiet, although a few of the other rooms had flickering light spilling through the crack under the door. Other travelers, perhaps even other paladins, had arrived while she slept. Seona took deep, calming breaths, and turned back into her room, quietly closing the door again behind her. She made her way over to the table, to the lantern there, picking it up. She found a striker and lit the wick, watching as the light from the lantern grew to fill the room.

The wind continued to howl and rain beat against the glass of the window. Slowly, her heartbeat slowed and she was able to think about what she had seen in her dream. Fandren had been frightening. She knew what she had saw. He was a Shadow Priest, a cleric dedicated to the darker arts, and one that inflicted pain and misery, rather than healing Light. Was that truly the path he was going to walk? Is that his future?

She sighed, a little sad. I cannot live his life for him. Neither can Brother Ben, for that matter. In the end, he must decide what he is, what he wants to be. She stooped to open her bag and change into a lighter shift for sleeping. Fandren is a friend. Even in my dream, even when he was... dark, he moved to protect me, to fight against that huge man. What was that man, anyway? He wasn't human. Perhaps the library can tell me. She blew out the lantern and worked her way under the covers and tried to settle in for sleep.

Tomorrow, she'd head over to the stables. Tomorrow, she'd choose a warhorse. The thought made her smile and she slept dreamlessly until dawn.

Warhorse: 4 - The Cathedral of the Light

Seona emerged from the underground station and had to shade her eyes from the late afternoon sun. Smoke billowed from a nearby forge and she could hear the loud sound of the smith working metal, no doubt creating a sword or fine armor. This was the Dwarven District of Stormwind, full of blacksmiths, leather-workers, engineers, and taverns. Large braziers held smoldering fires, much like in Ironforge, and by nightfall the city guards would make their rounds, stirring the flames to illuminate the narrow streets. Machinery could be seen and heard in the streets as engineers tinkered with their latest creations. A few gnomes walked by, deep in discussion about blasting caps, and the paladin just shook her head. For a moment it seemed as if she hadn't left Ironforge at all, except for the sun.

Seona was starving, realizing that she hadn't eaten anything since very early in the morning. She had made amazingly good time to the city, and wondered if arriving early for the training was such a good idea. Still, she had friends in the Cathedral of the Light here, and no doubt they'd be able to accommodate her. She made for the canals, turning right and passing the large open area where several blacksmiths plied their trade. She made a note to return here later, as she had a few places in her chainmail that could use new rings and patches, but was too hungry to stop now.

She had her rations, of course, but she hated to use them when she was already in the City, especially when she might get a free meal at the church. Noting street signs as she walked, she found the bridge to take her over the canals towards Cathedral Square. She stopped halfway across, peering down into the water. As a child, she had heard rumors that strange things lurked in the dark corners of the canals and remembered peering down into the water just as she was doing now. Though she found such things silly now, she still wondered if anything could be down in the murky water. Smiling at the memories, she shook her head and continued on, passing into a much quieter area of the city. As she passed under a large archway, she caught a glimpse of spires reaching up to the heavens. Soon, though, the buildings blocked her view.

No merchants were shouting their wares here, and no blacksmiths or other artisans were working on their crafts. Instead, the buildings in all white stone stood silent and stoic, surrounding the greatest building in all of Stormwind, the Cathedral of the Light. Before it was a round, multi-tiered fountain, it's water quietly splashing, the air cool and calm. A few young priests in white robes sat nearby in prayer and quiet meditation. There were fewer dwarves and gnomes here, as she had entered the heart of the city now. Strangely, she felt more at home here than in Ironforge, though she was surrounded by humans instead of her own people.

The Cathedral itself was magnificent, it's white, stone towers and spires reaching up to the sky and it's windows full of clear, blue glass. A large set of steps rose up to the arching doorway, a blue and golden carpet covering them. Seona remembered the first time she had seen those steps as a child, just another refugee orphan of the war, and sighed.

"Seona?" Her memories were interrupted as one of the priests at the fountain called out her name, running to her side. "Seona! Seona, you're back!"

The priest knelt down and hugged her, laughing, and she returned the gesture, a huge smile on her face. Oh yes, she had friends in the Cathedral.

"Fandren, it's so very good to see you again!" she said, pulling back from her friend's embrace. His youthful face was framed by his two long braids of black hair. Grey eyes looked out from a square face some would no doubt call handsome, his nose just a little on the large size, but not enough to look foolish. Seona knew his easy laugh and quick mind and immediately asked about his studies and health.

"Oh, Seona, I'm doing alright. I suppose there are days when I wonder if I wouldn't have been better served following in your footsteps, though. Some days I think... maybe..." he trailed off, his smile fading.

"What's wrong, Fandren? Is Brother Benjamin being strict with you? You know he has his reasons, of course. You always were a handful." she smiled, hoping for another one of Fandren's lilting laughs, but they were interrupted.

"Speaking of, look who's here." Fandren pointed, and Seona turned to find her old mentor. Brother Benjamin was a tall human, with skin dark as night. His white robes were trimmed in gold, a sign that he was one of the teachers of the clerics, an educator of future priests. He had taught Seona earlier in her life, before she became a paladin.

"Sister Seona, welcome back child," he smiled, stooping a bit and taking her hand.

"Brother Benjamin, it's so good to see you," the paladin said, bowing. Benjamin laughed.

"So formal, my dear! It's been awhile. How are the Wetlands?"

"Wet, no doubt." Fandren quipped, earning him a stern look from the older priest. Seona suppressed a giggle, knowing that Brother Benjamin was a far more serious man than her young friend will ever be.

"They are better off than Darkshire, though it seems much of the Northern lands are troubled by Dark Iron dwarves, the Horde, and other, less pressing troubles. Still, I'm glad to be back, even if it is only for a short time."

Benjamin gestured toward the cathedral, "Come, let's get inside. I've my afternoon prayers to attend to, and you're no doubt hungry and tired from travel." He glanced back disapprovingly at Fandren, then added, "Young Brother Fandren will take you into the kitchens and find you a room." He then whispered to Seona, "Try to convince him to study more, my dear. I worry about him a bit."

Confused by that last, Seona frowned a little, but quickly forgot about his words as she entered the cathedral. The air was cool inside, and she felt finally at home. The vaulted ceilings arched high above her head, and light streamed into the huge, rectangular nave through stained-glass windows above the altar. Columns lined each side of the nave, separating it from the smaller aisles with lower ceilings. She paused for a moment to go to one knee, and thought a wordless prayer of thanks, for everything. Seona felt renewed and at peace here in the church, surrounded by friends and the Light. Brother Benjamin bowed silently, and turned away to make for the right entrance of transept, off to make his own prayers in one of the alcoves.

Fandren turned to Seona and whispered quietly, "You're starving, aren't you? You never do eat when you're mind is on other things." Seona nodded emphatically, and he smirked. "Come on, then." He turned and passed through the columns to the left aisle, walking it's length with Seona right behind, to a small wooden door. He opened it and they both passed through to a much smaller, simpler, stone hallway. This lead to a very small courtyard and the living quarters of the clergy that stayed here in the Cathedral. Off in the distance, Seona heard a horse whinny, do doubt from the Church's stables, her ultimate destination, according to the letter.

Away from the omnipresent power and peace of Cathedral itself, Fandren looked a little happier and Seona was once again reminded of Brother Benjamin's plea.

"Fandren, what have you been up to lately? I feel like I've been gone a hundred years."

The dark-haired priest frowned, continuing down the hallway to the kitchens. "Oh, not much, just study, really, and lots of book reading." He gestured her inside where a long, low table with benches along it's length sat empty, taking up much of the room. At dinner, it would be filled with the inhabitants of the Cathedral, she knew. There was always food of some kind available, though, for visitors or the needy. Today it was a hot, hearty stew and she fell to immediately.

"C'mon, Fandren. I know when you're holding back, and, frankly, so does Benjamin. He worries about you." Seona said, trying to sound lighthearted.

"He's just upset that I don't view the Light the same as he does."

This only confused Seona further. "What do you mean?"

Fandren sighed. "Ah, my friend, you shouldn't concern yourself. It's nothing, really. It's possible I just don't have what it takes to become a truly great priest." He sat beside her, clasping his hands, a little sad.

"Don't be stupid, Fan. You've got talent. Brother Ben wouldn't have taken you as a student if he didn't think you had what it took to be a priest." Her bluntness surprised the young man.

"It's just... I look at the Light as a tool, and sometimes an imperfect one." He grimaced a bit.

Seona wanted to chide him for the remark, but stopped. "Explain, please."

Fandren looked thoughtful for a moment. "I just think that maybe it isn't always the best tool for the job, you know? You became a paladin because of that."

Seona shook her head. "No. I became a paladin because I wanted to do more, to fight, to protect others. Mostly to fight, though." She smirked, and Fandren smiled a little.

"Oh, well, I just think that, as a priest, I'm maybe more scholar and less cleric."

"Now, that I can understand, as I felt the same way for a time. What have you been doing that upsets Ben so much?"

"Um... enchanting." Fandren nearly whispered the word.

It was Seona's turn to grimace. It was fairly well known amongst the clergy that Brother Benjamin disliked the mix of Arcane with the Light's power, claiming that the Arcane energies "taint" the Light inherent in all things. He loves warning of the dangers of Arcane magics, their temptations, and he often cites the numerous warlocks amongst the great Alliance populace as proof of the danger. She shook her head, though, at his occasional backwards thinking and laid a comforting hand on Fandren's arm.

"Don't take him so seriously. Brother Benjamin is a purist, wanting all his students to become perfect healers." Fandren frowned again.

"Well, then, I'm doomed, Seona. I have a terrible time healing anything. Or, at least, a much harder time than others."

Seona shrugged. "Have you considered a different path? Or perhaps approached one of The Disciplined? They use holy Light in a different way."

Fandren nodded. "Yes, I have, and I just... I don't know. The Disciplined are very, well, disciplined-," Seona snorted, and Fandren continued, "-and I doubt I'll fit in well. You know me, Seona, always pushing boundaries and joking around."

She finished up her stew and bread and pushed the bowl back. "Seems to me you're just having a hard time finding your footing. Don't worry so much, Fan, you'll do fine. Look at your options and decide. You can always change your mind later if you feel you've chosen wrong, I mean, look what I ended up doing. You're so young yet." Fandren looked a little comforted, but still confused, and the paladin could sense his inner turmoil. Still, he smiled, punching her in the arm saying, "Not that young, Sister, I'm nearly 20 years old now." She laughed in response, but yawned, tired from travel.

"Well, your room is waiting, you're no doubt wanting to get settled in." Fandren stood.

Seona followed Fandren to the door, saying "Then by all means, my friend, lead the way."

Warhorse: 3 - The Deeprun Tram

The tunnel entrance to Tinker Town was decorated with moving gears and smoothed metal. Loud clanking seemed to come from behind the walls as she walked under the archway and she was certain she heard something explode somewhere past the exit, out of sight. Sighing, she continued down the hallway, standing well clear of the walls that moved as a piston, up and down, hypnotically. Finally emerging in what can only be called a small throne room, the leader of the displaced gnomes, the High Tinker Mekkatorque, was speaking with several of his advisers, all of them at least a head shorter than Seona. His bald head stood above the others only because he stood on a large platform, twin gears arching up on each side. The group was oblivious to the goings-on around them, far too interested in whatever subject they were conversing about to worry about the various people coming and going.

Not wanting to intrude, though Seona was far from the only person walking through the room, she gave the group of busy gnomes a wide berth, instead walking to the right and into another tunnel, this one leading to a much larger, rectangular room with two deep, narrow troughs in the floor. A few other travelers passed her, some on riding rams, and at least one on a large, armored elven sabre cat which she made sure to give plenty of space to. In front of her was the Deeprun Tram station of Ironforge, built by the gnomes to link the human and dwarven capitals. Ingenious and practical, it was, at least in Seona's opinion, the best thing the Gnomes had ever built... especially since it always seemed to work perfectly and didn't backfire. Small, metal benches stood in neat rows in the center of the station and Seona made for one of these, to set her bags down as she waited for one of the trams to arrive.

The seemingly infinitely long, twin tunnels that ran from here to Stormwind each carried one train. Large, cylindrical columns of stone and metal with square bases held up the ceiling. Geometric arches kept the metal rails suspended above the troughs for the tram to speed along. The machinery working under her feet made various strange noises, some beeps, some clangs, each echoing down the tunnels into the darkness, though lights strung up in intervals kept it dimly illuminated in places. The air was still, smelling of dust and a strange, musty scent of the earth and stone, mixed with metal and oil. Everything here was built in steel and iron with some panels showing more wear and tear than others. Blinking lights on a large screen displayed information impossible to discern for probably anyone, especially one such as Seona. She giggled to herself, thinking that even the gnomes probably don't know what the screen displayed. An occasional rat dashed by, making for trash bins or hiding in the shadows of the corners, sometimes disappearing behind loose panels.

One of the many wisps of hair that had fallen loose from her bun brushed her cheek. The air was stirring, and a low, whistling moan emerged from the tunnel nearest her, a sound from the wind being pushed before a tram. Grateful that she hadn't needed to wait too terribly long, she stood, pulling her heavy pack back onto her shoulders. The tram followed the wind into the station, slowing quickly to a stop before her.

The tram was suspended from the single rail above, it's three cars lining up with the three small disembarkment platforms built in to the trough walls on the station's floor. They bridged the gap, making it easy for riders to step from the train to the ground. The cars themselves were little more than open platforms suspended from above, with a short railing around the outsides. Columns made of metal and a strange, green-glowing crystal sat at each corner, anchoring the suspension frame to the platform.

Seona made for the nearest car, the middle of the three, and stepped lightly aboard. The black metal floor of the car was scuffed and scratched from countless traveler's boots and pets, but was still sturdy. She moved to the front of the car and placed her packs down. Gripping the railing, she leaned over just a bit to look down into the trough below, past the complicated-looking link between her car and the one in front of her. Few other travelers were in the station at the time, and only one other boarded the tram, in the last car behind her. A human man, a warrior, from the look of his large broadsword and chainmail, though he looked a bit ragged around the edges with scraggly hair, and a beard that looked like it needed a trim. He was relatively forgettable, though, and she turned back to examining the car. After only a few moments more, the tram shuddered and began moving out of the station, slowly at first, then much quicker, picking up speed as it moved into the long tunnel.

Seona, keeping at least one hand on the railing, looked up past the front car into the dark. Hanging lights seemed to flash yellow and red to complement the steady green light of the tram as they passed by, quickly fading away again into the shadows. Wind rushed passed, pulling even more strands of hair from her bun, deafening in its roar. The tram dipped down a few times, getting further beneath the earth, and the glow from the green crystals soon seemed to fade as they emerged into a tunnel made of what looked like glass.

The tram passed under a part of the ocean, and Seona was in awe of it's blue-green beauty. She had no idea how deep they were, but the water was completely surrounding them, only the glassy tunnel walls keeping it from flooding the entire tunnel. No surface or land was in sight, aside from the ocean floor. Giant strands of seaweed waved in the silent current of the ocean, and glittering bubbles rose from the sand. As they sped past, Seona made out the silhouette of a sunken ship from one of the wars before, perhaps the first war, it's sail still suspended from the mast, billowing in the water as if it were searching for an elusive wind. Most of the ship was embedded deeply in the sand, and she said a silent prayer for the sailors that must have perished when it sank.

As quickly as the ocean tunnel had come upon them, they were through it and away, once again enclosed in the deep darkness of the tunnels, red and yellow lights flashing as they passed. Perhaps, Seona thought to herself, I'll come back and walk down the tunnel to stare out into the ocean. How often will I get such a chance otherwise?

The tram began ascending again, going up little hills in short bursts, and Seona knew they were coming to the end. The wind moaned again, whistling as the tram pushed it into the station ahead. The small paladin stooped and grabbed up her packs again, holding the rail for balance as the train slowed to a stop. This station was nearly identical to the one in Ironforge, still made of metal and stone. It smelled a little better though, as if fresh air came down into the tunnels more often. Seona watched the human warrior disembark and she followed suit, hopping off and moving clear as others boarded, more humans and elves in the mix this time, with even a few of the strange and alien Draenei as well. She ducked out of the way of the taller folk, making for the exit tunnel, hoping that the trip through Ironforge and the wait and ride on the tram hadn't taken too long. If she was lucky, it was still a few hours to sundown here in the human city of Stormwind.

Next Chapter

Warhorse: 2 - To Ironforge

The morning dawned foggy and damp, typical for the soggy Wetlands. Seona awoke just as the sun was coming up over the mountains in the east, their long shadows still covering most of the Wetlands in a quiet, gray light. It would be hours before the sun was strong enough to burn away any of the thick fog and cloud-cover, though she hoped the gryphons would be awake and ready to fly her away from it all soon enough. She found a small basin of clean water outside her door, along with a small towel, left there in the early hours of the morning. A quick glance down the hall showed that there was only one other guest in the Inn, or at least, only one other still sleeping.

She ducked back inside her room, closing the door behind her. She washed up and changed into light breeches and tunic for traveling, packing away the few loose articles she still had laying about here and there, including the letter from the Stormwind Paladins. Seona did make sure, however, to keep it someplace handy. The gryphon master here near the dock was particularly strict and didn't often allow flights without good reason or direct orders. She did her hair up in its customary loose bun, easy for her after years of practice. A few strands fell loose right away, and she once again wished she were better at the usual braids her people wore as they generally held fast for far longer.

Seona shouldered her packs, blew out the lantern and ensured it was well and truely out, and went down the stairs. The tavern below was entirely empty, aside from a dozing Mikhail and the stout Innkeeper. She smiled sleepily and waved.

"Mornin' lass. 'Ow'd you sleep?" Innkeeper Helbrek asked, no doubt cheerful from the good business last night.

"Very well, thank you," Seona replied, as she pulled out her coinpurse. "How much do I owe you, Helbrek?"

"Fer a night? Seventy-five silver." Seona pulled out the coins and counted them out, for once grateful she worked as a soldier. All who aided the Church of the Light and the Kingdom were often given some discount for rooms and supplies. The coins changed hands and she decided to buy some dried trail rations as well, while she was here.

"'Ow far you goin', lass?" Helbrek asked, curious. Seona shrugged. "Oh, not that far, just to Stormwind, but you never know what will happen along the way." Helbreck nodded knowingly."Aye. Well, you ought'er get goin', then. 'E 'ope ter see you 'gain soon, lassie."

Seona laughed. "Oh, you can't get rid of me that easily, Hel. I'll be back soon enough!"

She left the tavern only to step into a bank of thick fog. The sound of the ocean lapping against the shore came from her left, along with the creaking and soft splashing of a docked ship. She saw the ghostly siluettes of soldiers making their morning rounds of the town, lanterns held lazily at their sides, only to lose sight of them again within moments thanks to the cloudy mist. Already she could feel beads of water trying to cling to her hair, so she made her way carefully towards the dock where the gryphons roosted in their low-lying roosts filled with straw.

As the sounds of the dock grew louder, the gryphon post emerged from the mists, the soft ruffling of feathers almost impossible to hear over the sound of the water, though an occasional impatient growl from one of the gryphons steered her closer. The stern gryphon master, named Shellei Brondir, was feeding some of her flock, cooing softly to a few of the large beasts. So as not to startle her, shuffled her bags and coughed, catching the attention of several of the intelligent gryphons and, thus, their master.

"Who's out there?" the gryphon master asked, quickly finding Seona's form in the fog.

"Sister Seona Lightstone, requesting a flight to Stormwind, Gryphon Master Brondir." She pulled the letter containing her orders out from her bag to present to the tall, firey-haired human. Seona couldn't judge her expression, thanks to the goggles so many of the gryphon riders wore, but she didn't look pleased.

"You want to take one of mine out? And that far?" Shellei shook her head. "No, I'm sorry, I can't authorize it. Most of my current gryphons are very young without the endurance needed for a trip that long. My older, more experienced ones, came down with a coughing sickness, no doubt due to all the damp, and had to be taken back to Stormwind weeks ago. I'm still waiting on decent replacements." Seona was disappointed. There were other routes of travel, but the letter had come to her so late that there wasn't much time left. Her face fell. Shellei's face softened just a little, and she pushed her goggles up onto her head to look down at Seona.

"I'll tell you what. I have one gryphon who's a bit green, but is easily up to the flight to Ironforge." Seona nearly clapped with excitement.

"Oh, thank you! That's more than fine, as the tram under Ironforge will get me to Stormwind just as easily as a gryphon," she then looked over at the beasts who were watching her intently,

"Though not nearly as stylishly." Even the gryphon master laughed and waved at the gryphons.

"Alright, then. Give me your packs, and we'll get my beast loaded for you."

After a few minutes of cajoling and prodding the young gryphon, getting him settled and packed up, Seona was beginning to doubt her decision. The gryphon looked about ready to bolt off without her, and even when he stood still, he seemed twitchy. He seemed far too eager for her tastes, at any rate. Still, this was the fastest way, by far, and she had to make it in time for training or have to wait a whole extra month.

"Alright," Brondir said, waving Seona over. "He's ready."

"So I can see." Brondir laughed.

"Oh, yes, Zephyr is eager. He's fast, though, so you'll get to Ironforge in no time, probably by noon, perhaps a bit after." Seona eyed him wearily, but knew better than to back out now. She moved forward and straddled the fidgety gryphon. Shellei whispered a few things into the gryphon's ear, and Seona watched with amusement as the gryphon seemed to listen and understand. She knew the beasts were far smarter than any average animal, especially the older, wiser ones who could memorize many flight paths without any problems. Still, this seemed more like a mother telling her youngest to behave himself in school, than a gryphon master giving directions to an eager student.

"All right, you're set. Give my regards to Gryth, the Ironforge gryphon master. Remind him that I'm still waiting on replacements, will you?" Seona nodded and nearly lost her grip. Zephyr, the all too eager gryphon and bolted and lept up into the air, the only thing Seona could hear was the laughter from Brondir below and the rushing wind. At first she was a little terrified, as the thick fog was still pressing in all around and in the air you couldn't tell which way was which. For a moment, she thought they would crash right into the sides of the nearby mountains.

Then, gradually, she noticed the light growing brighter, only to burst out of the fog into the dazzling morning sunlight. The snow-covered mountains were just ahead, a sea of grey mist below them, and Zephyr growled with delight, climbing ever higher into the cold, mountain air. Even Seona had to giggle at her initial fright, now that she was safely in the air and soaring easily above the wetlands. She looked down at the gryphon and realized that he'd make a very good one someday, provided he learned some patience. Perfectly honed muscles bunched and moved under golden fur, his tail twitching to keep perfect balance in the air, feathers perfect and rippling in the wind. She watched it all work in unison to keep them flying, higher and higher until they were in the mountains, snow beneath them.

As the morning continued, they neared Ironforge, making even better time than the gryphon master had predicted. Seona guessed, by the sun's position, that it was only mid-morning as the lights of the dwarven city winked in the mountains before them. She patted the gryphon thankfully, getting a good-natured growling call in return. The air was cold, and obviously more difficult to fly through, as the gryphon had to flap far more often to stay aloft. Still, he moved well, nearing Ironforge with the same pace he had set before. The gates were looming ever closer, the giant statue in the doorway, his crossed hammers high above signalling the end of her flight.

Zephyr swooped down, lightly turning as he entered the city, his cry echoing along the stone walls of the gryphon flight tunnel. The air was much warmer here, nearly stifling, as the heat from the huge furnace created strong updrafts, the air visibly churning in the lights of the fire and molten rock. The gryphon bobbled a bit in the air, then pushed and found his aerial footing, moving onward into the heart of the city: The Great Forge. The second dark tunnel opened up into the huge cavern, and the flight was nearly over.

Banking around the molten lava pouring down from above, Zephyr landed neatly in fron of the dwarven gryphon master, panting only slightly with the exertions of his flight. Gryth Thurden walked over and patted him, saying gruff praises and unbuckling Seona's packs as she dismounted. Giving her gryphon a final farewell pat in thanks, she shouldered her packs and turned to go.

Remembering her promise, she turned back and bowed to the gryphon master. "Sir, I was asked by the Wetlands post to inquire about replacement gryphons."

Thurden turned around to look her up and down and snorted. "Ach, she'll get 'em soon enough. Better send a letter to the lass, though, to keep 'er from constantly askin'. Thank'ee for passin' the word along, though, miss. No doubt you've better things t'do." She merely bowed again and resettled her packs on her back, turning right, to make her way towards the Military Ward of the city.

Ironforge was bustling, with many stout dwarves, diminutive gnomes, and tall humans in the streets beneath the mountains. Seona had forgotten what it was like to be amongst so many others, and felt a little out of place. She shook of the feeling, though, and made her way along the tunnels, smiling shyly at passersby. The Military Ward opened up before her as she left the Great Forge behind, though there was still plenty of heat coming from a pit of coals in the center of the square. The Hall of Arms, a very large building carved directly from the stone of the mountain, loomed ahead of her. Warriors and Hunters entered and exited the structure, some in groups, but most alone. Seona looked around to the left and found what she was looking for, the entrance to Tinker Town, the last Gnomish stronghold left in the world.

Next Chapter

Warhorse: 1 - Orders

The tavern was loud and full of people, mostly dwarven and human sailors, though a few soldiers and adventurers were seated around the heavy, wooden tables as well. Outside, beyond the safe walls of Menethil Harbor, crockolisks hissed as they dragged themselves through the mire of the Wetlands, looking for their next meal. Murlocs sat around small, flickering campfires near their leaning huts, and gnolls bayed in the distance. Further still, dark iron dwarves sat in their tents, red eyes glowing in the dark, watching for enemies.

The sun was setting over the soggy landscape, the shadows from the drooping trees getting longer, reaching out into the growing darkness. A single dwarf paladin, her boots covered in mud and her once shining, bronze chainmail now covered in grime was crossing the stone bridge into the town, passing by the guards who were in the process of a shift change. They called out to one another, the tired ones gladly giving their post over to the replacements, with good-natured humor and ribbing.

A few raised hands in greeting to the short paladin, some calling her by name. "Seona! You should meet us in the tavern, we're off to get a drink!" She smiled, her blue eyes full of mirth. "Maybe I will!" she called over her shoulder, waving. The soldiers fell behind as she continued into the town, skirting around the huge barracks that took up most of the space within the walls, meeting up with various locals. "A letter for you, sir, from your wife. She's fine, by the way." A quick thanks, a grateful handshake and a few coins for her trouble, and she was back on the path, heading round to the next house. "Your pack. You really don't want to know where I found it..." A relieved sigh, and a few more coins for her purse and more thanks. She smiled and continued on, finding herself in front of the tavern. The windows glowed brightly in the growing dark and she could hear the sounds of soldiers and sailors drinking, laughing, and talking from the open doorway.

A few of the soldiers from the keep, freshly off duty and changed out of uniforms and armor, walked past and Seona followed them inside. Ordering a drink from the barkeep, she found an empty stool at one of the lower tables designed for the dwarven citizens and sank down with weary sigh, letting her pack drop heavily to the floor. After a few long pulls from her flagon, she scratched absentmindedly at an insect bite, thinking about her decision to come to the Wetlands in the first place. If it weren't for the need, she'd never put up with the mud, grime, and biting bugs that made their home here. Her thoughts were shortly interrupted.

"Seona!" the loud call easily carried over the din, and was immediately reconizable as the barkeep Mikhail's voice. He stood near the bar, looking over the crowd, searching for her. She stood up and pushed her way to the bar, maneuvering around the soldiers ordering drinks.

"You called, Mik?" Startled, Mikhail looked down. "There you are," He said, bending down just a bit. "This came for you today, via courier. It looks important so I wanted to get it to you fast as I could."

He handed her an envelope of heavy, yellow parchment bearing the seal of the Paladin Order of Stormwind. Excited, as Seona guessed what the letter was, she tipped and thanked the barkeeper and made her way back to the little table she was in before. The tavern was still full of people, but her spot was thankfully empty so she sat and opened the letter. Her eyes darted over the page, taking in the words written there eagerly, thrilled with its contents.

Sister Seona Lightstone,

Congratulations are in order. You have shown exceptional aptitude and perseverance in your studies and training. It is with pleasure that I tell you of your promotion to full Paladin status and entrance into the mounted elite.

You are hereby ordered to return to Stormwind for a two-week intensive training session, at the conclusion of which will be an induction ceremony. During the training, you will learn how to care for, and maintain the equipment of, a warhorse of your choosing from our stables.

Please bring the enclosed application with your signature along with these orders to Stormwind when you arrive for your training.

By the Light,

Arthur the Faithful, of Stormwind Cathedral

For the Alliance!

The second paper was the application mentioned, quite plain and simple. She carefully pulled out a small inkpot and quill to sign it, careful not to spill her drink onto the parchment. The date written on the application for the training was only a few days away, but she knew that reaching Stormwind would only take a day from here, provided she could get a ride to at least Ironforge. There was a gryphon station here, and, weather permitting, she could purchase a ride. The town had been plague with bad storms at night, and thick fog in the mornings, but with the official orders from Stormwind, even the gryphon keeper would have to allow her a flight. Wanting to make herself more presentable, she finished her drink and hunted down the Innkeeper, Helbreck.

She found him behind the bar, in the small kitchen, chopping what looked like crockolisk meat with a huge cleaver, his beard carefully tucked into his shirt. Knocking on the door frame to grab his attention she asked, "Any rooms available tonight Helbreck?" He looked up from the butcher block and grinned. "Aye, lass. You're welcome to any. Few strangers in town t'day." His beard began to slip out and he unceremoniously shoved it back down. "Pay me in the mornin'. I know ye paladins 're good fer it."

Seona nodded, smiling, and dragged her pack up the stairs to one of the small rooms. Closing the door behind her and locking it, she dropped her bags down in a corner and took out the letter again. Setting it on the small table in the room, she removed her chainmail, wincing as she did so. "By the Light, I'm sore," she muttered, getting the rest of her armor off. She checked herself in the small mirror, realizing that some of the soreness came from nasty-looking bruises on her back and shoulder where Gnolls had attacked her with clubs earlier that morning.

She clicked her tongue dissaprovingly. Rubbing her hands together, she whispered a few prayers, calling the Light to her. Slowly, her palms began to glow and she smiled, grateful for her gift. With thanks to the gods, she poured the Light over herself, feeling the soreness ease, then dissapear altogether. Another check in the mirror showed healthy skin, the bruising gone entirely. With that done, she changed into a simple shift from her packs. She placed her chainmail in her bags after inspecting it for damage and finding little, expecting simple travel in the morning and no need for heavy armor or weapons. She rearranged a few things, discarded some other items, checked her coinpurse, and finally closed up her bags again.

By now, the noise from the tavern below was much quieter, as soldiers and sailors both returned to their bunks for the night. Seona finished preparing for sleep herself, and finally blew out the lantern, settling into the bed. As she closed her eyes and drifted into sleep, she dreamed of a white stallion carrying her into glorious battle, the both of them bathed in the holy Light, their faceless enemies fleeing before their combined might.

Next Chapter