Torena

Hello, I'm Torena a Fire Mage from Dalaran. My Favorite spell is Pyroblast :)

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

Torena turned at Caerleon’s words and smiled, she studied him for a while then said “I would appreciate the company to be honest they are a particularly nasty bunch, the main problem is going to be finding the right group as they have spread around Azeroth in recent years”

“If you don’t mind I will leave Atraq here for now while I go pass on the warning and return with the stuff we will need for the trip, if you could leave Shan a note or something telling her what we are about that would be good to?” Torena asked him. Torena left the house and made her way to the trade district, she stopped a soldier and told him what had occurred and asked him to inform the right authorities as soon as possible. Torena then made her way the The Gilded Rose and left messages for her friends there knowing the warning would reach their ears as soon as they visited the inn. Most of her friends tended to drop in there when visiting Stormwind so she knew her message would get through and be passed on. Torena went back to her own house to collect her travelling gear and food rations then made her way back to Shanarra’s house to collect Caerleon and Artaq, she approached the door and knocked. While she waited she wished that she could have seen Shan before they left but it seemed fate was against her again, several times she had attempted to be reunited with Shan but there was always something that got in the way. A well maybe next time torena thought.

[caerleonravenmane]

By the time Torena returned, Caerleon had left their note for Shanarra, donned his saronite plate armour and got his belongings together in his pack. He was just securing it to Starclaw’s saddle, when his sharp hearing picked up the knocking on the front door. The Night Elf opened the side-gate, leading Starclaw and Artaq out to meet the mage at the front of the house.

“All set,” he remarked, handing her Artaq’s reins. “You’ll have to lead the way; I’m not sure where the Twilight Highlands are.” He strode over to his hippogryph companion and pulled himself onto her back, making sure they were both comfortable before urging her closer to Torena. She clearly recognised the mage.

“Good to see you again Torena.” she said in greeting.

[cooltorena]

Torena smiled at Caerleon as she took Artaq's reins from him grinned at Starclaw and said “its nice to see you again Starclaw” Artaq looked at Starclw and huffed a friendly greeting as well which pleased her.

Then turning to Caerleon she said “there is a small island just on the edge of Stormwind if we go there the Earthen Ring maintain a portal to the Highlands and we should be able to go through, it will save us a lot of travelling” she mounted Artaq and settled into his seat making sure her pack was comfortable on her back. “Shall we fly if you are ready?” she asked Caerleon, and with that she urged Artaq into the sky hovering to see if Caerleon was indeed ready before moving on.

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

“Artaq and I are ok thank you” Torena said “you are right that man certainly seemed to know me and I wonder how” she tried to think what this could all be about.

Torena cast her mind back and then it hit her “Deathwing and the Dragon Soul” Torena exclaimed “that’s what this was all about, it has to be” she stated “and I also think they were not after you it can only be Shan they wanted as she was also part of the group of us that defeated him”

Torena looked at Cearleon “The others will have to be warned to be on the lookout because surely if there is one group there must be more” she frowned in concentration “I have no idea where some of them are but will have to leave messages and hope they get them in time”

“Looks like a trip to the Twilight Highlands is on the cards if I am to resolve this and find out who is behind it” Torena stated “I will also inform the King’s guards to keep an eye out, though they will be hard to spot if they are as well disguised as these men were” she smiled at Cearleon.

“I am afriad my visit will have to be cut short this time so I can go make the necessary arrangements, can I leave you to let Shan know what’s going on and inform the others if she can?” Torena asked and with that she headed back into the house.

[caerleonravenmane]

“A revenge attack?” he mused out loud, scratching his beard as he followed Torena back inside the house. He remembered Shanarra telling him about her mission to defeat Deathwing, especially the part where she travelled back in time to obtain the Dragon Soul.

“Are you sure you don’t need any assistance?” Caerleon asked. His eyes were wide with the list of things Torena had come up with and was clearly concerned about her taking on so much by herself. “I’ll certainly stay back to warn Shanarra and help her find the others but going to Twilight Highlands by yourself would be extremely dangerous. She wouldn’t want you to face them alone, and getting to know you, now neither would I.”

[cooltorena]

Torena turned at Caerleon's words and smiled, she studied him for a while then said “I would appreciate the company to be honest they are a particularly nasty bunch, the main problem is going to be finding the right group as they have spread around Azeroth in recent years” “If you don't mind I will leave Atraq here for now while I go pass on the warning and return with the stuff we will need for the trip, if you could leave Shan a note or something telling her what we are about that would be good to?” Torena asked him. Torena left the house and made her way to the trade district, she stopped a soldier and told him what had occurred and asked him to inform the right authorities as soon as possible. Torena then made her way the The Gilded Rose and left messages for her friends there knowing the warning would reach their ears as soon as they visited the inn. Most of her friends tended to drop in there when visiting Stormwind so she knew her message would get through and be passed on. Torena went back to her own house to collect her travelling gear and food rations then made her way back to Shanarra's house to collect Caerleon and Artaq, she approached the door and knocked. While she waited she wished that she could have seen Shan before they left but it seemed fate was against her again, several times she had attempted to be reunited with Shan but there was always something that got in the way. A well maybe next time torena thought.

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

As Torena watched Caerleon start to change slightly with frost beginning to form around him she smiled, it was quite a sight and she found herself fascinated by it, this time he was not going to be caught out.

Torena turned her attention once more to the three men, she had noticed the slight hint of purple to their aura’s and knew what it meant. “Who are you and who sent you?” she asked “and I repeat why did you attack this man?” but they still seemed to focus all their attention on to Caerleon.

“I believe they are connected in some way to the Twilight Hammer, I can see there is magic involved here, there is a definite purple aura about them Caerleon” she stated and noticed as she reported this to Caerleon the men began to fidget. “Whoever sent them must have known the exact location as Stormwind is quite a large city, I will summon the city guards so they can be taken in for interrogation which I am sure will not be pleasant.

Just as she had hoped it provoked a reaction and the men began to change, Torena immediately cast a spell that held the magic at bay and stopped the transformations from completing, she saw the shock on their faces. Suddenly one of the men looked at her as if seeing her for the first time and declared “She was one of the blasphemers who took part so she must also die” with that they changed and attacked. This time Torena could not stop the change so was forced to defend herself, Caerleon and Artaq, quickly releasing her fireballs at the nearest. Artaq waded in on the second and killed him with just a couple of swipes of his massive paws before he could react. Torena’s target went down and she turned for the third who was fighting with Caerleon, but as she went to help him the third shimmered and disappeared right in front of her eyes.

“Caerleon are you okay?” she asked him.

[caerleonravenmane]

The Twilight’s Hammer… Shanarra had mentioned those people to him before. Caerleon remembered that they were the mortal servants of Deathwing the Destroyer, and any others affiliated with the Old Gods. What would they want with him though? Caerleon had been in Northrend during the time of the Cataclysm; cleaning up the Scourge alongside the Ebon Blade in Icecrown. He had not encountered any of the Twilight’s Hammer there… Unless of course…

He didn’t get a chance to voice his concerns as the men broke free to attack them. The one nearest to him swung a small dagger at Caer, but the Night Elf simply raised a brow in an amused look as the tiny blade simply glanced off the ice on his body. The human lunged again, but Caerleon was ready for him, and used his momentum against him. He grabbed the man by the arm, making him wince at the ice-cold touch.

The Death Knight was about to change forms, when his foe noticed his allies had been dispatched. Uttering something in some vile tongue the Night Elf didn’t recognise, the enemy shimmered and vanished.

Caer straightened up, taking a moment to check their surroundings. There didn’t seem to be any more, but that didn’t mean he was about to drop his guard and let his ice armor fall off just yet.

“I’m fine, what about you?” he asked, glancing both at Artaq and Torena. “They seemed to know you, which adds to my suspicion that it wasn’t actually me they were after…”

[cooltorena]

“Artaq and I are ok thank you” Torena said “you are right that man certainly seemed to know me and I wonder how” she tried to think what this could all be about.

Torena cast her mind back and then it hit her “Deathwing and the Dragon Soul” Torena exclaimed “that's what this was all about, it has to be” she stated “and I also think they were not after you it can only be Shan they wanted as she was also part of the group of us that defeated him”

Torena looked at Cearleon “The others will have to be warned to be on the lookout because surely if there is one group there must be more” she frowned in concentration “I have no idea where some of them are but will have to leave messages and hope they get them in time”

“Looks like a trip to the Twilight Highlands is on the cards if I am to resolve this and find out who is behind it” Torena stated “I will also inform the King's guards to keep an eye out, though they will be hard to spot if they are as well disguised as these men were” she smiled at Cearleon.

“I am afriad my visit will have to be cut short this time so I can go make the necessary arrangements, can I leave you to let Shan know what's going on and inform the others if she can?” Torena asked and with that she headed back into the house.

[cooltorena]

Exodar Visitor

[cooltorena]

As Akirlia opened the door to the shop Torena sniffed appreciatively of all the glorious smells wafting her way and her mouth began to water with anticipation. “Ooh that smells lovely” she said as they went to a table and sat down.

“Would you order for me as I am not familiar with local dishes and I am sure I will like what you chose?” she asked “I would be happy to pay my way but as long as you are sure then it will be my treat next time” Torena reached across the table and squeezed Akirlia’s hand in gratitude, she noticed the slight flush to Akirlia’s face but decided not to comment. Maybe she had embarrassed her but she hoped not.

“I am sure Artaq will get along with Shatterstar he has met many different mounts and is quite easy going” Torena stated with a smile “he is a very patient animal and is used to having to wait around for me” she had not missed the sidelong looks from the other Draenei as they passed the pair but she chose to ignore them, if Akirlia was not bothered then neither was she.

Torena smiled as Akirlia said she new the Exodar well “I would love to see the Crystal Hall and the Vault of Lights I have heard they are rather spectacular, I would also be pleased to visit the central hall which I have been told is the Seat of Naaru” she could feel her excitement building at the prospect “If you think that would be okay?”

Torena blushed then “I am so sorry but I am so excited to finally be able to see the places I have only heard of from others that I feel like a child being taken to the fair for the first time” she gave Akirlia the biggest smile she could muster and then focused on looking around the shop to try and settle herself down before breakfast.

[extraterrestrialmonkasksarchive]

The aromas that wafted through the shop caused Akirlia’s stomach to rumble once again, and her mouth began to water in anticipation to the wondrous meal that they were about to behold. Sure, it was merely breakfast, but even still, it was bound to be an extravagant meal. Taking a seat, Akirlia gave Torena a sheepish smile, nodding her head in agreement as the woman took her hand. “Alright,” she said. “That sounds like a deal.”

Pulling a menu closer to them, Akirlia’s eyes scanned the breakfasts they could choose from, and she came upon a dish, feeling good about the choice. “You might like this,” she said, pointing to the selection. “It’s like the human pancake, but thinner, lighter, and much sweeter. They’re usually served with fruit, and kind you like!” She smiled, licking her lips at the sound of it. “I might go with it, myself, actually! What do you think?”

As Torena spoke of her mount, Akirlia nodded, taking it what the woman had to say. “Shatterstar is the same way, actually. She’s been around all sorts of creatures, though I think horses intrigue her the most. I’m not sure if it’s good or bad that she has such a liking for them, but as long as they don’t harm each other, everything will be fine.”

As the server came, Akirlia ordered them both the same meal, differing on only their choice of fruit, and they were alone again, Akirlia nodding at what she said. “That’s completely fine with me! The Exodar is a beautiful place, and we’ll take in as much as we can, and as much as you’re up for, as well!”

A chuckle ecaped her as she shook her head, raising a hand. “No need to apologize, Torena!” she mused with a smile. “It doesn’t seem like the Exodar gets many visitors aside from the Draenei…I feel as though people are intimidated by it, sometimes. I’d be glad to show you any place that makes you happy!”

[cooltorena]

The breakfast Akirlia ordered arrived and Torena took her first bite “Oh! This is lovely” she said “so light and not overly sweet, what a good choice to start our day” she smiled again at Akirlia.

Torena tucked in to the rest or her breakfast and was a little disappointed in a way when it was over. Torena felt comfortable sitting there having had a good but not overly heavy meal and was enjoying the company of her companion, maybe if she talked a little about herself Akirlia might open up a bit.

“I live mostly in the city of Stormwind and its been a while since I could take some time off just to relax by myself, it can be quite a busy place with lots of the other races coming to visit and the market gets a lot of traffic” she said “I have a small house to myself just on the edge of the Mage district and we have a fair few parks that are pleasant to walk around when the weather is warm” Torena explained “There are some really amazing buildings and the Cathedral is quite a spectical”

“As you have probably guessed I am a mage, it took me quite a few years to master the spells but they have proved to be useful” Torena chuckled “Fighting the scourge and other enemies of the Alliance can take its toll so I take a break whenever time and circumstances allow”

“I have no family now as they were killed a long time ago” Torena had to swallow a bit to keep her voice under control, even after all these years the memories still hurt, “so I decided to follow in my parents footsteps to become a mage” Torena looked down at her hands and found she was rubbing them together in her lap, she hadn’t done that in years so concentrated on stopping herself from doing it, she only did it when she was nervous talking about her family.

Torena looked back up at Akirlia and with a week smile said “That's enough talk about me, what about you Akirlia do you have family here in the Exodar?”

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

Torena smiled at Caerleon and was pleased that her administration of the bandage held while he tested his shoulder, she smiled again as he remarked about not heeding a healer and that he did not require a drink.

She was amazed at his resilience as he stood up to follow her outside to see what the assailants were up to. She walked up to Artaq and gave him a gentle stroke through the ruff on his neck “Good lad” she said to him and heard the slight trill he gave when he was happy.

“Caerleon this is Artaq my Quillen, Artaq meet Caerleon” she watched as Artaq turned his head slightly and looked at Caerleon his eyes bright with interest. The Quillen stretched his neck towards Caerleon and sniffed then returned to his guard position.

“He takes his guard duty very seriously which is just as well saved me a few times from walking into trouble” she giggled “Right shall we see what we have?”

Looking at the three men she could sense something was not quite right and her magic sense started tingling again “Why did you attack this unarmed man?” she asked the nearest but she realised they had all their attention on Caerleon. As she glanced at Caerleon turning her head she could see a shimmer radiating from all of the assailants in the corner of her eye.”Caerlon beware something is not right here” she shouted, Artaq had also changed his stance as he did when he felt a threat.

[caerleonravenmane]

Caer was pleasantly surprised that Artaq didn’t seem bothered by him at all. Usually, since becoming undead, animals tended to recoil from him. He surmised it was his mistress’ relaxed state that kept him calm. He’d never even seen such a beast before, and offered his hand towards Artaq so he could sniff it if he wanted to.

“He’s a beautiful creature,” he commented. “From Pandaria I assume? I’ve never been, although Shan talks about it a fair bit.”

He turned his attention back to the assailants. He too could sense there was something not quite right about them; something out of the ordinary despite their outward guise. Caerleon squinted. Definitely magic of some kind… Hanging over them like an eerie mist. They almost looked like they had a purple sheen to them.

His posture changed and frosty rime began to form over his hair and skin. He might not have his weapon or armour, but this time Caer was not to be taken by surprise. If these foes wanted a fight, this time they’d get one.

[cooltorena]

As Torena watched Caerleon start to change slightly with frost beginning to form around him she smiled, it was quite a sight and she found herself fascinated by it, this time he was not going to be caught out.

Torena turned her attention once more to the three men, she had noticed the slight hint of purple to their aura's and knew what it meant. “Who are you and who sent you?” she asked “and I repeat why did you attack this man?” but they still seemed to focus all their attention on to Caerleon.

“I believe they are connected in some way to the Twilight Hammer, I can see there is magic involved here, there is a definite purple aura about them Caerleon” she stated and noticed as she reported this to Caerleon the men began to fidget. “Whoever sent them must have known the exact location as Stormwind is quite a large city, I will summon the city guards so they can be taken in for interrogation which I am sure will not be pleasant.

Just as she had hoped it provoked a reaction and the men began to change, Torena immediately cast a spell that held the magic at bay and stopped the transformations from completing, she saw the shock on their faces. Suddenly one of the men looked at her as if seeing her for the first time and declared “She was one of the blasphemers who took part so she must also die” with that they changed and attacked. This time Torena could not stop the change so was forced to defend herself, Caerleon and Artaq, quickly releasing her fireballs at the nearest. Artaq waded in on the second and killed him with just a couple of swipes of his massive paws before he could react. Torena's target went down and she turned for the third who was fighting with Caerleon, but as she went to help him the third shimmered and disappeared right in front of her eyes.

“Caerleon are you okay?” she asked him.

[cooltorena]

Exodar Visitor

[cooltorena]

Torena sighed with relief at seeing Akirlia popping her head through the door and a big smile appeared on her face. “Good morning I was just coming to see if I could find you” she said “and yes I would love to breakfast with you and looking forward to trying some of the local food”

Torena noticed that Akirlia seemed a little nervous so was determined to put her at her ease she smiled again saying “I am feeling much better thank you, still a little bruised but they are healing nicely thanks to you”

As Akirlia reopened the door for her Torena passed out of the doorway “Thank you I am really interested on seeing the sites with you as well, its much better with company than going on your own, don’t you think?” she sensed Akirlia fall into step beside her “Besides I would not know where to start” then Torena giggled “Please don’t tell everyone but I have a habit of getting lost in unfamiliar places, particularly in fortresses to the point I have been known to actually jump of the roof to escape” she could feel her face begin to blush at her admission but didn’t think Akirlia would make fun of her for it.

“This time I think I will use my own mount for getting around, I will feel a lot safer that way” and again she giggled “My Quillen Artaq is a lot stronger than most and he always takes good care of me when we are out together” what was wrong with her giggling like a little girl in front of the Draenei. “Please excuse me giggling I haven’t felt this excited about something in a long time, I am glad I decided to come here despite the manor of my arrival and I am really happy I have met you”

[extraterrestrialmonkasksarchive]

Akirlia’s countenance brightened as the woman spoke, her lips curved into a shining smile. “I figured I’d pop in and check on you,” she replied with a nod of her head, brushing back her hair from her eyes. “The Exodar is a big place, and I wouldn’t want you to get lost on my account…not when I offered to take you around!” She chuckled softly, her silver eyes falling upon Torena’s.

There was a sigh of relief from the Draenei when the human spoke of her condition, glad to know that the woman was healing up nicely. “I’m happy to hear it,” she responded softly. “You took such a tumble that I was worried that you might have been a bit worse for wear! I would have gladly done anything I could to make sure you were alright…I’m no good at healing, but I would have done my best.”

Her expression only brightened as Torena spoke, glad to have the woman as company in the vast Draenei city. “Ah, not to worry then, I know the Exodar like the back of my hand, and I’d be happy to show you around. Perhaps we might even be able to see the Prophet Velen! Though chances are we won’t be able to speak with him…he’s a very busy man after all and normally flanked by dozens of Draenei.

Torena’s giggling caused a giggle of her own to escape Akirlia, and she covered her mouth with the back of her hand as they fell in step together, making sure to shorten her normally long strides. Here and there, a Draenei would give them an odd look, but the monk could not have cared less, at that point. She was enjoying herself, and knowing that Torena felt the same gave her great joy. “Well, I’m sure he’ll get along just fine with Shatterstar…she may be a dragon, but she’s the gentlest you’ll ever meet! We won’t need them for a bit yet…around the corner here is the best place to get breakfast in the Exodar, and for the best price as well!” Leading Torena to the rather small, yet homely, shop, she allowed the human to pass through first, allowing the warm smells of Draenei cuisines to wash over them. “Anything you like is yours,” she said happily. “Don’t worry about payment…you’re my guest, and I wouldn’t ask you to pay for a single thing.”

[cooltorena]

As Akirlia opened the door to the shop Torena sniffed appreciatively of all the glorious smells wafting her way and her mouth began to water with anticipation. “Ooh that smells lovely” she said as they went to a table and sat down.

“Would you order for me as I am not familiar with local dishes and I am sure I will like what you chose?” she asked “I would be happy to pay my way but as long as you are sure then it will be my treat next time” Torena reached across the table and squeezed Akirlia's hand in gratitude, she noticed the slight flush to Akirlia's face but decided not to comment. Maybe she had embarrassed her but she hoped not.

“I am sure Artaq will get along with Shatterstar he has met many different mounts and is quite easy going” Torena stated with a smile “he is a very patient animal and is used to having to wait around for me” she had not missed the sidelong looks from the other Draenei as they passed the pair but she chose to ignore them, if Akirlia was not bothered then neither was she.

Torena smiled as Akirlia said she new the Exodar well “I would love to see the Crystal Hall and the Vault of Lights I have heard they are rather spectacular, I would also be pleased to visit the central hall which I have been told is the Seat of Naaru” she could feel her excitement building at the prospect “If you think that would be okay?”

Torena blushed then “I am so sorry but I am so excited to finally be able to see the places I have only heard of from others that I feel like a child being taken to the fair for the first time” she gave Akirlia the biggest smile she could muster and then focused on looking around the shop to try and settle herself down before breakfast.

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

Torena watched Caerlon anxiously being unsure if what she had done would help, she had not had much experience with reformed Death Knights so was not sure how their bodies reacted to pain. Having seen the shock and heard him wince she knew he must be feeling something.

“Please don’t worry about that I am sure anyone would say something along those lines” she said “I hope the bandaging helps and will hold till I can get you to a healer, I only hope the fork doesn’t give you any type of infection” Torena blushed as again she reminded herself that she knew almost nothing of their recuperating abilities.

“I managed to hold them around the side of the house” Torena said to Caerloen’s question “My Quillen Artaq keeps guard on them for us till I can summon a patrol to deal with them” she could hear the anger in her voice “I have no idea why they would do something like this King Anduin has already made a proclamation that this kind of thing would not be tolerated”

“They seem to be just ordinary farmers from their outfits but until we find out for sure they could be anyone” Torena said “I will get a healer to check you out if you need one and then we can go speak to them and see what’s going on, if thats what you want”

Torena helped Caerleon up from the kitchen floor and lead him to a chair “Can I get you some water or anything?” she asked him “You look like you could do with a drink of some sort”

[caerleonravenmane]

He chuckled a bit at her mention of infection.

“I’m technically kept ‘alive’ by magic so I doubt that will be a problem.” Caer said. He rolled his shoulder, testing not only the wound itself, but also Torena’s bandage work. It held well, and he was sure the punctures would be fine.

“I don’t need a healer,” he insisted as she helped him to sit. “A priest’s magic would do me far more harm than good.” Still, perhaps Shan could do something about it later… “And a stiff drink would be good about now… If it would even work!” He chuckled again, waving a hand that he was only joking and he’d be fine.

He was reluctant to leave the assailants for her to deal with alone, and so despite whether or not she would protest, Caerleon was soon on his feet again to follow her as she went out to see them.

As she’d said, they looked like farmers, and all human. He didn’t recognise any of them, but they all fixed him with poisonous stares.

[cooltorena]

Torena smiled at Caerleon and was pleased that her administration of the bandage held while he tested his shoulder, she smiled again as he remarked about not heeding a healer and that he did not require a drink.

She was amazed at his resilience as he stood up to follow her outside to see what the assailants were up to. She walked up to Artaq and gave him a gentle stroke through the ruff on his neck “Good lad” she said to him and heard the slight trill he gave when he was happy.

“Caerleon this is Artaq my Quillen, Artaq meet Caerleon” she watched as Artaq turned his head slightly and looked at Caerleon his eyes bright with interest. The Quillen stretched his neck towards Caerleon and sniffed then returned to his guard position.

“He takes his guard duty very seriously which is just as well saved me a few times from walking into trouble” she giggled “Right shall we see what we have?”

Looking at the three men she could sense something was not quite right and her magic sense started tingling again “Why did you attack this unarmed man?” she asked the nearest but she realised they had all their attention on Caerleon. As she glanced at Caerleon turning her head she could see a shimmer radiating from all of the assailants in the corner of her eye.”Caerlon beware something is not right here” she shouted, Artaq had also changed his stance as he did when he felt a threat.

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

Torena smiled at Caerlon as he commented on Shan when she scolds someone she had been the but of it for years but felt it only went to prove their particular close bond. She thought about explaining how she really felt that Shan was like a daughter but refrained for now, she had only known him for a few hours so that could come later as they got to know each other better.

“I look forward to seeing you in Bear form as I don’t think I have seen a white one yet, I imagine the markings will be quite spectacular compared to most I have seen. I have to admit I have not heard of many redeemed Death Knights appearing in that form either”

Torena watched as Caerlon got up and headed for the kitchen she looked around the familiar room and smiled at the memories that invoked in her mind, all the times she had spent hours talking to Shan and drinking tea.

Suddenly Torena heard a muffled sound coming from around the side of the house, she frowned thinking that’s a bit odd. Then her senses began to tingle something wasn’t right and as she started to rise she heard a smash of glass and a loud thud coming from the kitchen. Torena quickly rushed to the kitchen doorway only to see Caerlon pinned to the wall with a pitchfork sticking out of his right shoulder. She spun around heading out the front door only to see three men appearing from around the corner of the house quickly casting a Frost Nova she pinned them in place. Torena closed her eyes and in seconds her Quillen Artaq landed next to her “Hold them hear Artaq and I will deal with them shortly” she ran back into the house knowing that Artaq would guard them.

As Torena approached Caerlon she could see the shock and pain on his face, she approached him and looked around for something to stop the blood around the wound, seeing nothing she tugged at the sleeves of her robe pulling it free. Torena made it into a wad and placed it against the wound “I have to pull you free” she said hoping she had the strength to do so. Torena took a good hold on the pitch fork and pulled with all her might and felt it give so pulled again and out it came almost propelling her across the room. As the fork came out of Caerleon’s shoulder she placed the pad against the wound in the hope it would stem the flow somewhat. “I am so sorry I don’t have much in the way of healing magic but this will help till I can get a healer for you” she ran to the sink and using the other sleeve wetted it and cleaned up the wound on both sides of his shoulder, then again she closed her eyes and a proper bandage appeared in her hands which she quickly wrapped around the wound for a temporary solution. As she wrapped his shoulder her anger started to surface, why had these men done this to a visitor in Stormwind as far as she knew no one had done anything like this for some time. Then she started to fret she was unsure what to do for Caerlon now……

[caerleonravenmane]

Caerleon’s ear had twitched, picking up the sound of someone approaching him, but he hadn’t thought anything of it. At least until he found himself pinned to the wall by a pitchfork. He grunted at the pain and reached up to cast a spell at his assailants, but they were gone before he had the chance.

He watched Torena chase after them, unable to do much but hang there and brace the weapon sticking out of him. It was so strange, after having been almost completely numb to pain under the grip of the Lich King, to suddenly have the sensation back again.

The mage returned and his head lolled a bit, seeing her tear her robe to stem the blood. Unlike some Death Knights, Caerleon did still bleed, albeit at a much slower rate than someone living. He managed to suppress the hiss he almost made as she pressed the cloth to the wound. He did wince some as the fork was pulled free, and he cursed under his breath.

“Sorry…” he mumbled, meaning swearing in front of a lady, and also that she had wrecked a perfectly good robe to help him. He looked down as she worked, her bandaging skills helping to support his shoulder through the pain. He pushed himself away from the wall, his expression dark.

“I’ll be fine,” he said, flexing his hand on that arm. “Who were they? Did you catch them?”

[cooltorena]

Torena watched Caerlon anxiously being unsure if what she had done would help, she had not had much experience with reformed Death Knights so was not sure how their bodies reacted to pain. Having seen the shock and heard him wince she knew he must be feeling something.

“Please don't worry about that I am sure anyone would say something along those lines” she said “I hope the bandaging helps and will hold till I can get you to a healer, I only hope the fork doesn't give you any type of infection” Torena blushed as again she reminded herself that she knew almost nothing of their recuperating abilities.

“I managed to hold them around the side of the house” Torena said to Caerloen's question “My Quillen Artaq keeps guard on them for us till I can summon a patrol to deal with them” she could hear the anger in her voice “I have no idea why they would do something like this King Anduin has already made a proclamation that this kind of thing would not be tolerated”

“They seem to be just ordinary farmers from their outfits but until we find out for sure they could be anyone” Torena said “I will get a healer to check you out if you need one and then we can go speak to them and see what's going on, if thats what you want”

Torena helped Caerleon up from the kitchen floor and lead him to a chair “Can I get you some water or anything?” she asked him “You look like you could do with a drink of some sort”

[cooltorena]

Exodar Visitor

[cooltorena]

Torena felt pleased that she had not offended Akirlia and smiled at her words, as she dozed off she heard Akirlia leave and finally fell into a deep sleep. The next morning when Torena awoke she found herself alone but much more refreshed from yesterday, she sat up on the bed and decided to see if she could stand without feeling dizzy. Torena placed both feet on the floor and began to use her meditation technique to calm herself and then stood up, the room did not spin as she thought it might so she took a tentative step and found she was nice and steady as long as she didn’t move too fast.

Torena realised she was hungry so decided she would see if she could find Akirlia and get some breakfast, the next job was to find her clothes and refresh herself with a shower, if she could find it. Torena looked around and found the bathroom so she took a nice warm shower and could feel her body responding to the effect of the water on her bruised body. Torena looked in the mirror and was pleased to see that the bruises were mostly on her arm and down the left side of her body but they didn’t seem too bad. A few scratches on her left cheek but nothing to worry about.

Torena found her clothes all cleaned up and hanging in the tall cupboard on one side of the room, she dressed after washing herself and felt much better, with a smile on her face she headed for the door to the room and was about to open it when it opened from the other side making her jump back slightly.

[extraterrestrialmonkasksarchive]

Akirlia had watched over Torena until she had fallen asleep, and the Draenei set out everything she would need for the next day, before retiring herself to her own room. She was happy enough to help, and the woman was kind enough to accept Akirila’s help.

The next morning, not too early, as she didn’t want to wake Torena up before she was rested, Akirlia knocked softly on her door, opening it slightly and popping her head in. A smile lifted her lips as she saw the woman dressed, and looking a sight better than she had the day before, as tired and injured as she was. 

"Good morning," she said brightly, allowing herself in, shutting the door behind her. "I didn’t mean to startle you, I apologize. And I’m hoping you’re feeling better this morning…you do look a lot better than you were." She gave Torena a smile, nodding in approval as she seemed ready to go.

"I was actually wondering," Akirlia began, rubbing the back of her neck, "if you were hungry? I didn’t eat, myself, this morning in case you wanted to try some of our traditional meals to start out the day!" She placed her hand on the door once again, opening it and holding it for Torena to exit first. "There are all sorts of places I’d like to take you, if you’d like!"

[cooltorena]

Torena sighed with relief at seeing Akirlia popping her head through the door and a big smile appeared on her face. “Good morning I was just coming to see if I could find you” she said “and yes I would love to breakfast with you and looking forward to trying some of the local food”

Torena noticed that Akirlia seemed a little nervous so was determined to put her at her ease she smiled again saying “I am feeling much better thank you, still a little bruised but they are healing nicely thanks to you”

As Akirlia reopened the door for her Torena passed out of the doorway “Thank you I am really interested on seeing the sites with you as well, its much better with company than going on your own, don't you think?” she sensed Akirlia fall into step beside her “Besides I would not know where to start” then Torena giggled “Please don't tell everyone but I have a habit of getting lost in unfamiliar places, particularly in fortresses to the point I have been known to actually jump of the roof to escape” she could feel her face begin to blush at her admission but didn't think Akirlia would make fun of her for it.

“This time I think I will use my own mount for getting around, I will feel a lot safer that way” and again she giggled “My Quillen Artaq is a lot stronger than most and he always takes good care of me when we are out together” what was wrong with her giggling like a little girl in front of the Draenei. “Please excuse me giggling I haven't felt this excited about something in a long time, I am glad I decided to come here despite the manor of my arrival and I am really happy I have met you”

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

Torena finally got a hold of herself as she listened to Caerleon talking about Shan and could see his point regarding her nickname “I promise I won’t tell her you told me and I know her scolding tone, have been there myself a few times” she smiled at the fond memories though at the time found it a bit embarrassing.

“I would love to see the two of you together in bear form, I expect that it is quite a sight” Torena said tryin to imagine what they would look like together. 

“Well to me Illidan seems massive as I am quite short for a human and most people over 6 feet are giants to me” she could feel the laughter starting to bubble up again but focused on not letting it go this time.

“I am so looking forward to seeing her face when she finds me here and also meeting her apprentice” Torena said “I had not been able to let her know when I was coming back so hopefully it will be a nice surprise, I do hope they come soon” and with that last remark her stomach rumbled.

[caerleonravenmane]

The Death Knight nodded with slightly widened eyes at Torena’s extremely true comment over Shanarra’s scolding voice. He might be the parent, but she could tell him off just as successfully as he could tell her.

“Well mine is a lot different now,” he said with a gentle sigh, clasping his hands together in front of him. “I used to look pretty much identical to her, but with my condition… Now my fur is white, my mane a light silver and my markings glow with the same blue as my eyes. Still, it is unique I suppose. I know of no other redeemed druid-death knights who can do it. Maybe they just haven’t tried.”

“You know, my sister was quite short for a Night Elf, and she had a saying,” Caerleon said. “That Elune only lets things grow until they are perfect, and some people didn’t take as long as others.” He laughed heartily. He knew humans didn’t worship Elune, but he hoped Torena would get the sentiment.

Hearing her stomach, he raised an eyebrow.

“I will start some food then!” The Night Elf smiled and got to his feet, heading towards the kitchen. “I’m sure Shan will be most pleased! Calaysia too.”

[cooltorena]

Torena smiled at Caerlon as he commented on Shan when she scolds someone she had been the but of it for years but felt it only went to prove their particular close bond. She thought about explaining how she really felt that Shan was like a daughter but refrained for now, she had only known him for a few hours so that could come later as they got to know each other better.

“I look forward to seeing you in Bear form as I don't think I have seen a white one yet, I imagine the markings will be quite spectacular compared to most I have seen. I have to admit I have not heard of many redeemed Death Knights appearing in that form either”

Torena watched as Caerlon got up and headed for the kitchen she looked around the familiar room and smiled at the memories that invoked in her mind, all the times she had spent hours talking to Shan and drinking tea.

Suddenly Torena heard a muffled sound coming from around the side of the house, she frowned thinking that's a bit odd. Then her senses began to tingle something wasn't right and as she started to rise she heard a smash of glass and a loud thud coming from the kitchen. Torena quickly rushed to the kitchen doorway only to see Caerlon pinned to the wall with a pitchfork sticking out of his right shoulder. She spun around heading out the front door only to see three men appearing from around the corner of the house quickly casting a Frost Nova she pinned them in place. Torena closed her eyes and in seconds her Quillen Artaq landed next to her “Hold them hear Artaq and I will deal with them shortly” she ran back into the house knowing that Artaq would guard them.

As Torena approached Caerlon she could see the shock and pain on his face, she approached him and looked around for something to stop the blood around the wound, seeing nothing she tugged at the sleeves of her robe pulling it free. Torena made it into a wad and placed it against the wound “I have to pull you free” she said hoping she had the strength to do so. Torena took a good hold on the pitch fork and pulled with all her might and felt it give so pulled again and out it came almost propelling her across the room. As the fork came out of Caerleon's shoulder she placed the pad against the wound in the hope it would stem the flow somewhat. “I am so sorry I don't have much in the way of healing magic but this will help till I can get a healer for you” she ran to the sink and using the other sleeve wetted it and cleaned up the wound on both sides of his shoulder, then again she closed her eyes and a proper bandage appeared in her hands which she quickly wrapped around the wound for a temporary solution. As she wrapped his shoulder her anger started to surface, why had these men done this to a visitor in Stormwind as far as she knew no one had done anything like this for some time. Then she started to fret she was unsure what to do for Caerlon now......

[cooltorena]

I love it ty hun xxx

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

Torena smiled at Caerleon she realised she was beginning to like him and his sense of humour was catching, the fact he was also accepting of the situation with Shanarra and Illidan also sat well with her.

“We would make a good tag-team” Torean giggled “I burn them and you freeze them that will give them the hot and cold flushes all day long” she doubled over at that with laughing, she couldn’t help herself.

Torena took quite a while to calm down long enough to carry on talking “Little Bear, ooh I like that nickname for Shanarra, but to be honest she almost scared me to death the first time I saw her in bear form. The biggest dam black bear I had ever seen went flying past me onto the mob we had come up against and I was so relieved she was on my side, I thought my time had come” she smiled again at the memory.

Torena then realised how tall Caerleon was and chuckled to herself “I can see where she gets her height from, but too me she is tall and you would be a giant” with that last remark Torena doubled over yet again with laughter and this time couldn’t stop her face was flushed in case she had insulted Caerleon but she just couldn’t control it any longer.

[caerleonravenmane]

He nodded in agreement.

“Both extremes of temperature,” he said, taking his seat once more. “Won’t know what hit them.” Caer watched Tor laugh, smiling himself at the exchange. He took a moment to drink some of his fresh tea as she regained herself.

“Don’t tell her I said it,” he commented, in reference to Shanarra’s nickname. “She doesn’t like me to use it in front of her friends, I’ve already been scolded several times! But I can’t help it, she’ll always be my Little Bear. No matter how big she is.”

He listened with interest to Torena tell him about the first time she had seen his daughter in her favourite form. While it was not an unusual thing to see amongst Night Elves, he assumed it must have been quite the shock to a human unaccustomed to druids.

“Indeed, the ‘Little’ is more to do with her age; when she first learned to take the spirit of Ursoc into herself, I was quite shocked myself to see the size of her bear form,” he said honestly. “But then, she takes after me. I won’t show you my bear form – for one thing I will probably end up taking all the floorspace… Or breaking the table.” He shrugged.

“If I’m a giant, what does that make Illidan?!” he cried, laughing as well now.

[cooltorena]

Torena finally got a hold of herself as she listened to Caerleon talking about Shan and could see his point regarding her nickname “I promise I won't tell her you told me and I know her scolding tone, have been there myself a few times” she smiled at the fond memories though at the time found it a bit embarrassing.

“I would love to see the two of you together in bear form, I expect that it is quite a sight” Torena said tryin to imagine what they would look like together. 

“Well to me Illidan seems massive as I am quite short for a human and most people over 6 feet are giants to me” she could feel the laughter starting to bubble up again but focused on not letting it go this time.

“I am so looking forward to seeing her face when she finds me here and also meeting her apprentice” Torena said “I had not been able to let her know when I was coming back so hopefully it will be a nice surprise, I do hope they come soon” and with that last remark her stomach rumbled.

[cooltorena]

Exodar Visitor

[cooltorena]

“Thank you I would like that if I am not imposing, I don’t think I would be able to do much in my current state” Torena said “I am so pleased the Hippogryph is ok too it was very scary at the time”

she smiled up at the young Draeni as she took the proffered glass and took a sip.

“Well it was lucky for me you were visiting I don’t know how long I would have been there had you and your dragon not found us” Torena stated she smiled and said “I am pleased to meet you Akirlia and yes I would like it if you could stay, as long as I am not taking you away from things you need to do” she tilted her head slightly “I would be honored if you could show me around, the last time I was here I have to admit I didn’t get to see much”

Torena studied Akirlia and liked what she saw, she seemed very relaxed and that helped Torena to relax. Suddenly she yawned Torena flushed with embarrasment, “I am so sorry I don’t know what came over me” If the ground would have opened up and swallowed her she would have been far happier.

[extraterrestrialmonkasksarchive]

"I can assure you, you’re not at all," Akirlia replied with a smile. "It would be my pleasure to take you around my once-home. The Exodar is a large place, and I won’t take you around too much, so you can recover easier, but I’m sure we could find some nice places to have some traditional Draenei meals, my treat." She was growing to like the woman with each second; Torena was a genuinely kind soul, and it was nice to speak with her as they didn.

"I’m sure someone would have come across your path quickly," Akirlia assured her with a nod. "While the beach doesn’t get traveled nearly as often as other parts do, young trainees to wander by regularly." She paused for a moment, pouring herself a glass of water, taking a sip before speaking again. "The pleasure it all mine, Torena," she replied with a nod. "And don’t worry about taking away from my plans. I was planning on returning to Stormwind tomorrow to meet with a friend, but I’m sure she’ll understand. I’ll send a letter in a bit to her. She’s a very kind and caring soul."

Brushing her hair out of her eyes, they fell upon Torena, who yawned rather loudly, causing a giggle to escape Akirlia. “My, my!” she exclaimed. “Someone’s a tad tired now, aren’t they? I don’t blame you, though, after what you’ve been through. Tell you what, rest up a bit more, and we can go wandering about the Exodar when you feel that your feet can take it. How does that sound?” She offered the woman another smile, assuring her that she was not offended by her sudden yawn.

[cooltorena]

Torena felt pleased that she had not offended Akirlia and smiled at her words, as she dozed off she heard Akirlia leave and finally fell into a deep sleep. The next morning when Torena awoke she found herself alone but much more refreshed from yesterday, she sat up on the bed and decided to see if she could stand without feeling dizzy. Torena placed both feet on the floor and began to use her meditation technique to calm herself and then stood up, the room did not spin as she thought it might so she took a tentative step and found she was nice and steady as long as she didn't move too fast.

Torena realised she was hungry so decided she would see if she could find Akirlia and get some breakfast, the next job was to find her clothes and refresh herself with a shower, if she could find it. Torena looked around and found the bathroom so she took a nice warm shower and could feel her body responding to the effect of the water on her bruised body. Torena looked in the mirror and was pleased to see that the bruises were mostly on her arm and down the left side of her body but they didn't seem too bad. A few scratches on her left cheek but nothing to worry about.

Torena found her clothes all cleaned up and hanging in the tall cupboard on one side of the room, she dressed after washing herself and felt much better, with a smile on her face she headed for the door to the room and was about to open it when it opened from the other side making her jump back slightly.

[cooltorena]

Exodar Visitor

[cooltorena]

Torena slowly came awake she felt very sore and couldn’t quite remember what had happened to her, as her mind seemed to come back to her she realised she was laid in a bed and she heard a melodic voice ask her if she was okay. Torena opened her eyes to see the prettiest Draeni woman she had ever seen bending over her.

“Oh my I hurt all over” Torena said, then she fully recalled what had happened “Is the Hippogryph okay?” she asked “I remember the storm and the poor thing struggling to stay aloft then the next thing was we hit the ground, I would have cast a slow fall spell but couldn’t leave the poor thing to struggle on his own, that storm seemed to come out of nowhere”

Torena looked around the room and although not very big it was cosy and warm, she realised she was thirsty and asked “May I have a drink please?” but as she tried to sit up she became dizzy and flopped back down on the pillow “Phew I must have hit my head a bit felt quite dizzy there for a minute” she managed to sit up slowly and pulled the pillow behind her back.

“I better introduce myself, my name is Torena and I was coming to visit the Exodar as it has been a while since I had been there, I am glad someone found me as I have no idea where I came down” she stated “By the way where am I?”

[extraterrestrialmonkasksarchive]

"I would be surprised if you didn’t," Akirlia murmured, her lips curved in a smile. "I’m wondering if a storm caught you and the hippogryph while you flew here…I’m glad you didn’t get too badly hurt though. I’d suggest staying here a few days, at least until you’ve recovered more."

The Draenei rested a hand upon the human’s shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Relax, the hippogryph is fine. My dragon, Shatterstar, is watching over it at the flight master’s lodge. It seemed pretty ruffled, but is recovering just fine. You don’t have to worry, it’s in good hands.” She offered a smile before resting her hands in her lap, taking a moment to glance over her features.

Nodding to the woman’s request, Akirlia rose from her seat, tail swishing as she poured a glass of water for her. “Take it easy,” she cooed, returning to her side, handing her a glass and brushing some of her hair behind her ear. “You had a rough trip, and you’ll still need plenty of time to get better, though you seem very strong and shouldn’t have a hard time with that.”

Remaining quiet as she introduced herself, Akirlia bowed her head in greeting. “Archenon poros, Torena,” she said. “My name is Akirlia and you’re in the Exodar. I’m here on visitation as well, but my family lives here. I haven’t seen them for quite some time, and I believed it was a long overdue visit.” She paused, locking her fingers together, her thumbs twiddling. “Would you like me to stay with you?” she offered. “I could always show you a layout of the city, or around Azuremyst as well.”

[cooltorena]

“Thank you I would like that if I am not imposing, I don't think I would be able to do much in my current state” Torena said “I am so pleased the Hippogryph is ok too it was very scary at the time”

she smiled up at the young Draeni as she took the proffered glass and took a sip.

“Well it was lucky for me you were visiting I don't know how long I would have been there had you and your dragon not found us” Torena stated she smiled and said “I am pleased to meet you Akirlia and yes I would like it if you could stay, as long as I am not taking you away from things you need to do” she tilted her head slightly “I would be honored if you could show me around, the last time I was here I have to admit I didn't get to see much”

Torena studied Akirlia and liked what she saw, she seemed very relaxed and that helped Torena to relax. Suddenly she yawned Torena flushed with embarrasment, “I am so sorry I don't know what came over me” If the ground would have opened up and swallowed her she would have been far happier.

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

“Well I have to admit when I met him I was very wary but as you say seeing them together you can see they care deeply for each other” Torena said with a rueful smile on her face “He is aware also that if he hurts her I will return and he will know first hand how much it has upset me”

Torena was beginning to like Caerleon and could see where Shan got her free spirit from, she wondered whether her stubbornness came form him or her mother. She would have liked to ask but was afraid it might open old wounds so decided to leave it for another day when they had known each other for a while.

“If you have no objections I would like to wait for her, I have missed her so much and it seems we have quite a bit of catching up to do” Torena asked hoping he wouldn’t say no “Mind you I do sometimes get a crick in my neck when I look all the way up to her” Torena couldn’t help it and began laughing “Are all night elf females that tall?”

[caerleonravenmane]

He chuckled deeply at Torena’s words. Oh yes, he and this human were going to get along just perfectly.

“Ha, not if I get there first!” he exclaimed with a fanged grin. “Or I’ll hold and you can bring the magic, how’s that, a tag-team.” Caerleon realised he was making jokes about beating up his daughter’s partner, but he only did so because he knew deep in his heart that would never happen. Of course Caer had been around long enough to know that disagreements between them may occur, but he sincerely doubted that there would ever be anything serious.

“I don’t object at all, you’re welcome here Torena,” he said, getting up to refill their drinks. “I’m sure she will be pleased to see you. Little Bear has been swept off her feet lately, I’m sure the chance to sit with a good friend and catch up is exactly what she needs. And if you get on so well with her, I’m sure Calaysia will like you as well.”

As the mage mentioned Shanarra’s height, he laughed too, especially since he was still standing, and Caer was 7’ 2” tall.

“Actually, Shanarra is quite average,” he said. “Calaysia is taller than most females, she’s only 2 inches shorter than me.”

[cooltorena]

Torena smiled at Caerleon she realised she was beginning to like him and his sense of humour was catching, the fact he was also accepting of the situation with Shanarra and Illidan also sat well with her.

“We would make a good tag-team” Torean giggled “I burn them and you freeze them that will give them the hot and cold flushes all day long” she doubled over at that with laughing, she couldn't help herself.

Torena took quite a while to calm down long enough to carry on talking “Little Bear, ooh I like that nickname for Shanarra, but to be honest she almost scared me to death the first time I saw her in bear form. The biggest dam black bear I had ever seen went flying past me onto the mob we had come up against and I was so relieved she was on my side, I thought my time had come” she smiled again at the memory.

Torena then realised how tall Caerleon was and chuckled to herself “I can see where she gets her height from, but too me she is tall and you would be a giant” with that last remark Torena doubled over yet again with laughter and this time couldn't stop her face was flushed in case she had insulted Caerleon but she just couldn't control it any longer.

[cooltorena]

Exodar Visitor

Torena decided she wanted to visit the Exodar again, it had been quite a while since she had been there. At the harbour in Stormwind she boarded the boat for Rutheran Village and settled down to read in her cabin. It was much later that she heard the Captain announce their arrival in Gadgetzan and she got up to leave when it hit her, Gadgetzan what was she doing there, darn it she had got on the wrong boat again.

Torena left the boat and decided to fly instead hoping to see some of the land she had heard a lot about. Hiring a Hippogryph she headed for Ashenvale with the intention of moving onto Lor’danel from there.

Torena found Astanaar in Ashenvale to be as beautiful as ever and stopped off in the local inn for lunch, she loved the look of the night elf houses and the trees were as beautiful as she remembered and the local Elves were so friendly. The trees wore there autumnal colours of reds, oranges and purples and almost seemed to make it a fantasy land for which if she had more time she might have stayed a bit longer. However she went back to the Flight master and hired another Hippogryph to take her on to Lor’danel further up the coast.

As the bird was flying over the Veiled Sea from Lor’danel towards the Exodar a huge storm blew out of nowhere and caught the bird throwing it back over the sea, the bird did his best and struggled against the high winds in an effort to go where it was supposed to. Finally Torena saw land and instead of the dignified landing she was hoping for the poor bird crashed onto a beach all grey with ash.

The last thing Torena remembered was hitting the ground very hard and wondering where she was before the blackness took her.  

[extraterrestrialmonkasksarchive]

It had been what seemed like ages since Akirlia had been to the Exodar, and it was time for a long overdue visit to her family. Though she now called Stormwind her home, her heart would always lie with her brother and sister, here in the Exodar, and after staying with them a few days, she felt as though the time had come to explore Azuremist Isle once more.

Calling her fae dragon, Shatterstar, by her side for company, Akirlia and the dragon explored the surrounding area with great joy. It brought a smile to her lips as she remembered when she first began to train, young and slightly nervous about landing upon a new planet with new people. It was obvious that she had fit in well, over the years, and she was glad to call Azeroth her home.

Walking the grey, sandy beaches was something that she had always enjoyed doing, and as Shatterstar nuzzled at her face, the Draenei noticed something amiss in the skies, a small black dot growing larger and larger before a hippogryph and it’s rider came crashing to the ground. Shatterstar roared in distress and Akirlia hopped upon her, ushering the creature toward the hippogryph and a female human, checking for vitals of both woman and animal. They seemed to be fine, but still injured at the fall, and Akirlia hurried to hoist the woman in her arms as her dragon lifted the hippogryph gently into her claws, taking off toward the Exodar.

Several hours had passed as Akirlia remained by the woman’s bedside, occasionally dabbing a wet cloth upon the woman’s brow to keep her temperature normal. She had shown signs of improvement recently, and as the woman stirred awake, a relieved smile crossed the Draenei’s lips. “How are you feeling?” she asked softly, gazing upon the female. “You hit the ground pretty hard, but the medics said you were going to be just fine.”

[cooltorena]

Torena slowly came awake she felt very sore and couldn't quite remember what had happened to her, as her mind seemed to come back to her she realised she was laid in a bed and she heard a melodic voice ask her if she was okay. Torena opened her eyes to see the prettiest Draeni woman she had ever seen bending over her.

“Oh my I hurt all over” Torena said, then she fully recalled what had happened “Is the Hippogryph okay?” she asked “I remember the storm and the poor thing struggling to stay aloft then the next thing was we hit the ground, I would have cast a slow fall spell but couldn't leave the poor thing to struggle on his own, that storm seemed to come out of nowhere”

Torena looked around the room and although not very big it was cosy and warm, she realised she was thirsty and asked “May I have a drink please?” but as she tried to sit up she became dizzy and flopped back down on the pillow “Phew I must have hit my head a bit felt quite dizzy there for a minute” she managed to sit up slowly and pulled the pillow behind her back.

“I better introduce myself, my name is Torena and I was coming to visit the Exodar as it has been a while since I had been there, I am glad someone found me as I have no idea where I came down” she stated “By the way where am I?”

[cooltorena]

Meeting Caerleon

[cooltorena]

Torena was relieved that Caerleon knew about Illidan it meant she didn’t have to pussy foot around it and would not inadvertently put her foot in it. The subject could be talked about openly with no worries on all sides. “I am glad she has found someone at last, though have to admit I was really shocked when I found out who it was, as I am sure you must have been”

“It is so good that things are working out for Shan she has suffered much over the years feeling lost at times and to be frank I am so glad I was able to help when she needed it” Torena said, she blushed slightly at his gratitude for helping her “I have to admit she is like the daughter I never had and I love her dearly, we have fought together a lot and understand each others ways” Torena continued “She has saved my life too many times and I would do anything for her”

Torena noticed the slight blush to Caerleon’s cheeks but chose not to acknowledge it in case it caused him embarrassment but locked it away in her mind, she would have to watch the interaction between the two new people in Shan’s life.

Torena sipped the tea that Caerleon had given her and asked “Do you have any idea when they are due back, I had hoped to surprise her as I have been away for a while?”

[caerleonravenmane]

“Shocked is one way of putting it…” Caer mumbled, rubbing the back of his neck. “I can’t really remember too well what I did at first – my memory becomes hazy when the Lich part of me takes control. But I ended up in the Temple and slaughtered a couple of his guards just for the stress relief. We came to an agreement however. You only have to see them together.”

He drank some more tea, licking the drops that collected on his moustache. He could easily see how much this woman cared for his daughter, and that made him happy. It eased the guilt he still carried inside for leaving her, even though he knew it wasn’t his choice or his fault. He thought about making a joke about the age difference between Torena and Shanarra but he refrained, not yet knowing how the mage would react to his sometimes strange sense of humour.

“Well let’s see…” Caerleon glanced at the clock on the wall and his eyes widened a bit. “Okay, I slept in longer than I thought… It’s almost lunch so I assume Shanarra and Calaysia will be popping back for lunch any time now.” A grin wormed across his face before he could stop it.

[cooltorena]

“Well I have to admit when I met him I was very wary but as you say seeing them together you can see they care deeply for each other” Torena said with a rueful smile on her face “He is aware also that if he hurts her I will return and he will know first hand how much it has upset me”

Torena was beginning to like Caerleon and could see where Shan got her free spirit from, she wondered whether her stubbornness came form him or her mother. She would have liked to ask but was afraid it might open old wounds so decided to leave it for another day when they had known each other for a while.

“If you have no objections I would like to wait for her, I have missed her so much and it seems we have quite a bit of catching up to do” Torena asked hoping he wouldn't say no “Mind you I do sometimes get a crick in my neck when I look all the way up to her” Torena couldn't help it and began laughing “Are all night elf females that tall?”