#ardanholt

[ardanholt]

The Resistance ~ Day Three

With the names Lady Aerius gave me I spent the next day searching through the city looking for the two that could help me. The fighting, the chaos, and the flowers were still abundant throughout the city and I was worried that Riahanna was seeing the same things I’m seeing in our own streets.

As I made my way to Stillwhisper Pond both Kirollis and Caelrus had been sitting near by. It was the perfect time to put the orb into good use. I wasn’t sure how they would take meeting with a human and with a bounty on my head I had to use caution.

Sadly they’re intel was much like what I had. Very little to go on and no answer as to how to solve the problem. However, both of them had started a resistance and were working in the Bazaar to help those infected and those that weren’t. It gave me cause to believe that there were individuals out there trying to combat the problem and like me looking for answers. I wanted to ask more questions get more out of them, but Riahanna happened along the same people I was speaking to. 

With Riahanna’s questions and insight with the problem at hand it shed a little more light into the problem plaguing both Alliance and Horde now. Indeed the situation wasn’t isolated and it would seem that inadvertently the Alliance and Horde may have to work together on this problem. Or perhaps this was this “God’s” intentions? 

With the offer of my help to aid the Sin’dorei with their resistance, and a reassurance to Riahanna that Ardan Holt was okay, I departed with the information I had to gather a little more from observations and then started my trek back to Stormwind. While I was worried about the people back home and just how we would be able to combat the situation, I couldn’t help but wonder if Lady Aerius would come true on her word. Either way I was short on time and a cure was my top priority.

@riahannaofblackwood @thesnoreashan @the-shieldedmind @chorusofcontention

[ardanholt]

The Huntress ~ Day Two

Ghostlands...

My situation was not ideal but necessary if I were to find the information needed to solve the puzzle of this “infection”. I wasn’t here looking for who started it, but how to fix it. I had hoped someone might have something of a cure. The only thing was no one in Silvermoon was able to help me thus far, and now I find myself bound and gagged and about to face the one Sin’dorei that hates me the most.

“Where is he?” a woman asked just outside the room I was in. Her voice sounded worried instead of angry. Perhaps this was a good sign, but as she entered the room her fel green eyes got angrier, “You have a lot of nerve showing your face here after what you did.” She added as she stood before me.

“Always lovely to see you Lady Aerius.” Is what I would have said if not for the cotton in my mouth instead she would have to settle for grunting and my greenish hazel eyes.

“Six years. You’ve not shown your face in Silvermoon since you killed my father six years ago. Lord of House Brightsun, a prominent leader in our community, and well respected among the noble community. You robbed everyone including myself of a great man. What do you have to say for yourself?” she asked.

“Has it been that long? Feels like yesterday.” I said. Again she’d only here grunting, but I had hoped amidst the bloody lip and black eye she understood what I was saying.

“Remove the gag idiots so I can hear what he has to say.” She ordered, and like any lackey in the company of a noble they did as they were told. “You were saying Ardan?”

“It seems that Lord Brightsun’s death worked out for you. I mean that is what you wanted in the first place right? I believe your words were, “My father is a fool, the sooner I have his head the sooner I can lead House Brightsun.”  If you think about it I did you a favor.” I said. My test to see just how far she would take the situation.

“You dare to insult me and my father. You’re still a man without honor Ardan and I should kill you for what you stole from me.” Lady Aerius said as she looked into my eyes.

“You’re infected.” I said. It took me a bit, but I could tell something was wrong with her as she entered the room. It wasn’t anger in those eyes but fear.

“What do you know about the infection? Why are you here Ardan?” she asked as her eyes turned to desperation.

“I was hoping you would tell me or point me in the direction of one that can help me. The people in my city are dying, killing each other in the streets, mass hysteria everywhere and now flowers popping up out of nowhere. I need answers Aerius.” I explained as my gaze moved from hers and to the others in the room with me. As I looked about I noticed she wasn’t the only one infected and now I needed to plan my escape route.

“Was getting caught part of your plan?” she asked as she raised an eyebrow.

“Considering most are useless to talk to, I had no other choice.” I replied as I started to work the binds on my hands.

“You know as much as we do. Which is next to nothing. As far as we discovered there seems to be no cure in sight and if I am indeed going to die, my last act might as well be avenging my father.” she said as she removed her bow from her back.

“Let me go and I’ll find the cure you need?” I suggested trying to buy more time.

“There’s a resistance withing the city. People trying to help the sick and actively looking for a solution. You can start there.” She surprisingly said as she motioned for one her guards to remove my binds.

“You have a name of someone within this “resistance”?”

“Take this, it gives the names of at least two people involved.” she replied as she handed me a small parchment.

“I’m surprised you’re going to trust me?”

“You seem to be immuned to whatever the hell this is. Perhaps there’s something about you that might fix it. You better move fast though. None of us have much time left.” she explained as she sheathed her bow.

“I’ll do what I can.” I said as I started to leave.

“Ardan.” she said stopping me in my tracks.

I slowly turned to look at her hoping it would be a thank you, but I wasn’t surprised as to what she had to say.

“When this is over, we’re coming for you. You’re a murder and there’s only one thing you can do for a monster like you.” she said to me. 

As I headed out of what once was beautiful property I had looked back to reflect on what had taken place. I wasn’t worried about her threat, part of me believes she’ll not act on it. No I was worried about my sisters, about Riahanna, and about House Holt. I worried as to how many would be dead before I returned home. Hopefully this “resistance” will have the answers I seek. I cannot return home empty handed.

@riahannaofblackwood @thesnoreashan @the-shieldedmind@chorusofcontention

[ardanholt]

It has become a quiet pleasure of mine to allow others to think they know the man that I am. With just a little bit of conversation most think they have an idea of who I am. I admit that it is part of how I was when working with SI:7. Deception can become a powerful weapon, and leading people on to think and believe one thing can at times actually save your life.

What is my deception you ask? I mentioned it before but it is my arrogance. A word here, and a word there. Let those around me believe that I’m full of myself and not worthy of their time helps to keep those that are not family or friends at arms reach. For many they likely see me this way, but for one, maybe two they see me an entirely different way. They see the real me and had all of House Holt been around me last night they would have seen the man that I really am. However, for now it shall be fun to keep that side of me a secret.

For now I’ll leave her name out of this. If something were to happen to me too soon I’d hate for her to have to face the repercussions. I’d surely never forgive myself if something happened to her. Especially after I just promised her father I’d keep her safe.

I’m the kind of man that you could consider old fashion. Perhaps this is why I don’t get along well with the noble world. So much is planned out by nobles. What they’ll do when they grow up. Who they’ll marry, and so on and so forth that I believe that many don’t leave anything to chance. You can’t blame them entirely, no one with wealth would want to leave it to chance. However, planning out everything leaves out adventure and excitement and that chance encounter of finding that one that is meant for you. I could never marry one without love being the main factor and if I didn’t know any better I think I found that one.

Beautiful, blue eyes, and genuine are just a few words to describe her. I would list more, but I’m certain I’d run out of room before I could get on with my entry. She is herself all the time. Doesn’t pretend or fake an emotion just to have a moment with me. Granted she has a few mishaps, but it is one of those traits that I love most about her. She wouldn’t be her without those mishaps. 

I’ve done all the necessary things a man must do. I’ve expressed my desire to get to know her and much to my relief she felt the same. I then met with her father to ask for his permission and blessing to which he willingly gave. Dinner was nice as we both discovered that we have much more in common. Food, life, where we’d like to see ourselves when our services are no longer required. It was everything I imagined it would be and much more and to feel her lips pressed against my cheek made that whole night even more special. 

Hopefully our special night will lead to something more and hopefully my family will appreciate her as I do.

[ardanholt]

Solitude

For some time now I have lived a life of solitude. Even after I met my sister and became a part of House Holt I still liked to linger in the shadows. While old faces stood about the Shady Lady conversing and reminiscing and new faces tried to find a way to fit in, I would sit back in the shadows and listen to as much of the conversations as I could. 

It’s difficult being an outsider and that’s exactly how I felt among people who knew and followed my sister and other siblings.  One might say that “I’m a Holt and should have no trouble fitting in.” However, this has been the case for me. Honestly for most Rogues this is the case for them. When you serve a life of living in shadows, whether it be for the intelligence or killing someone, it can and become a lonely field to be in. 

For myself I have had to swear a life of secrecy. All the information I’ve gathered, the people I’ve killed, and the various other things required of me as an SI:7 agent, I’ve had to keep to myself. My family doesn’t know the things I’ve done, and even if I were to fall in love, even she won’t be able to know.

The problem with secrecy is at times you don’t have an alternative but to lie to the people closes to you, and the  worst thing about lying is if you do it so much you can begin to believe your own lies. Perhaps this is the reason I stick to the shadows? Except for the various meetings, and conversing with Addy, I have chosen to stay hidden among the people of House Holt. One is not wanting to lie, and the other is I don’t know where I’d really fit in. My sole purpose for being with House Holt is to draw closer to my family. I’ve met a few, some have warmed up to me, others need time. 

Eryn mentioned recently that I should just embrace the name and everything that I’m entitled to. She also expressed concern on just how long I’d stay and that she didn’t want me to hurt Addy. As to how long I’d stay. I’ll stay until they no longer desire to have me around. As to what I’m entitled to as a member of the Holt family, I’d like to earn it. I like to play the arrogant noble as often as I can and as much as Addy and I are alike, we are also different people. Perhaps if we were raised by the same people we’d be an unstoppable duo, but there’s a part of me that carries something not many have these days and that’s compassion for those around me. 

Perhaps one day the people of House Holt will embrace me as they do Addy, but if not, I won’t die a man that is unsatisfied with his life. I know I won’t die feeling alone. However, I will die with secrets that I can never share with those I’m closes to.

For now I hope to find that moment when I can break that awkward silence that I and the members of House Holt share and hopefully they’ll warm up to me.

[ardanholt]

A New Path

I was tempted to go straight into the home of the individuals that had been seeking me out while I was away, but as I got to their doorstep I hesitated. Was it fear? Not entirely. I knew that if I stepped across that threshold, I would be entering a world I know little about. On one hand I would be meeting real family, but on the other I they did give me away to someone else. For what purpose though? I had so many questions and I knew that barging in wouldn’t put me in a good spot. 

Instead the next day I found myself standing in front of my superior getting a coin purse full of gold and a pat on the back for a job well done.

“I’m not sure how you do it Ardan, but as always you never disappoint. I know that your King and fellow SI:7 agents thank you for your services.” My commanding officer said.

“It’s what I was trained to do.” I replied as I put t he gold in one of my satchels. 

“That it was. Planning on sticking around for a couple of days?” my commanding officer asked as I heard some chirping coming from outside.

“Excuse me for a moment?” I asked. He nodded as I started to head outside. Once I stepped outside the chirping had stopped and there to my right a raven had perched itself upon a nearby barrel, curiously eyeing me. As I studied the bird I noticed a letter with symbol on it. The moment I took the letter the bird quickly flew off. As I headed back inside I had opened the letter and began to read it,

“Lord Ardan Holt,

I am Lord Warlund Blackfyre. You don't know me, but I know a little about you. If you ever find yourself in Stormwind, meet me near Olivia's Pond after dark.”

Signed, Lord Warlund Blackfyre

“Everything alright?” my commanding officer asked as I made my way back to his desk.

“Yeah.” I casually said as I read through the letter at least a third time.

“So how about it Ardan? Are you up for another assignment?” he asked.

“Actually I need some time off. I have a family matter to take care of.” I said as I rolled the letter back up, which caught the man’s attention.

“That’s the Blackfyre’s seal. You’re not in any trouble are you?” he asked with a concerned look.

“No. None. Just need some time to take care of family.” I replied,

“Go. You’ve earned it. When you’re ready for more work just drop in.” he said with a smile but with a hint of worry in his eyes.

Alright Lord Blackfyre, lets hear what you have to say...

[ardanholt]

The Noble Assassin

“Wake up!” shouted one of the shipmates as he shook the hammock I was sleeping on.

“How far out are we?” I asked as I sat up and looking at my pocket watch. A watch that was given to me by an uncle who I came to discover was actually my father. 

“We should reach Stormwind Harbor within an hour. I was sent to wake you up as requested.” the shipmate replied,

As I made my way to the top deck I could not help but reflect what had taken place over the past nine months. 

Nine Months Ago...

I had just finished meeting with my superiors about another mission that I was about to embark upon. According to my superiors this mission was top priority and they claimed that this hit might have come from the King himself. 

Yes, in case you were wondering I am an assassin for SI:7, and not to toot my own horn, but I was damn good at what I did. Now for most part they might say that I am just an assassin, or just a murderer who kills for money, but neither are true. I have only killed to protect the people of Stormwind and my King. I don’t kill for any other reason, because of this a few of my contacts like to refer to me as the “Noble Assassin”, which is also in reference to me actually being a nobleman.

At this point I was eager to get going on my assignment, but as I started to pack in my room, I was interrupted by an angry “father”.

“Ardan what are you packing for this time?” Lord Avren asked with an angry tone.

“I was given a new assignment.” I simply replied,

“Who do they have you assassinating now?” he started to ask, “You are needed here. You’re a noble for Light’s sake, it’s high time you started to behave as one.”

“What attend parties and kiss ass with the people that have a higher status than you? What I do, I do for my king. There’s nothing more noble than that.”

“No. However, you have a responsibility to the people that serve our house and a name that you have to uphold.” Avren replied. 

“This world is not for me, never has been. I found something that I am good at. I already serve the people that work in our house. I protect them from dangers that threaten them and the people of Stormwind. I am not sure why we’re having this conversation again? You have never understood why I do what I do, nor have you ever been supportive. Now if you could please move aside I have a boat to catch.” I explained with an angry look towards him.

“Since you seem determined to go I won’t stop you. However, I was hoping to talk with you about something. I had hoped you would be able to sit and hear me out, but seeing that I don’t have much time, I’ll just be out with it,” He explained as he looked to be fighting to get the words out of his mouth, “Ardan, you belong to a family much bigger than this and the time has come for you to join them.” he added as he reached for the pocket watch my uncle had given to me when I was just a boy,

“What are you talking about?” I asked as I took the watch back.

“That watch wasn’t given to you by your uncle. It was given to you by your father.” Avren simply said as he waited for my expression and my response. 

“What the hell are you talking about?” I asked him in an angry tone.

“Darcassian, the man that gave you that. He is your father, and the time has come for you to rejoin your family and your twin sister.” he said as I started to see the fear in his eyes as to what I would do from hearing this news he presented me with.

For a moment I just starred into his eyes. I was waiting to see if he was lying but the longer I starred the more I realized that he was telling the truth and then the anger set in. I reached for my bag of gear and pushed him aside. “This whole time the two that I referred to as mother and father had done nothing but lie to me. I am leaving and I am not coming back.” I barked before leaving.

Everything I knew was a lie. Why would he wait until now to tell me? Am I just part of some sick game that the noble world likes to play with me? As I headed for the harbor, my head was filled with so many questions, but out of all the questions the one of leaving all this behind I wasn’t really sure on. For now I couldn’t worry about it. I had a mission that I had to complete first. After that I would decide if I should return or not. 

“Hey boss. heading out to sea again?” one of my informants asked as he stood on the docks awaiting my arrival.

“Something like that.” I simply replied.

“Got any work for me to do while you’re away?” he asked, eagerly awaiting my reply.

“Find out what you can about my real family and who my twin sister is.” I said as I got on the boat.

“Sure boss. Everything okay?”

“We’ll find out when I return, be careful where you go seeking the information, Nobles have a way to make people disappear.” I said as I motioned to the captain that I was ready.

Present Day...

As we approached the Harbor, part of me didn’t want to get off, but I needed to know the truth. I wanted to know more about my real family, about my sister, and I wanted to know why they gave me away. Fortunately for me I was greeted with a familiar face.

“Good to see you back boss.” the informant said.

“What intel do you have for me?” I asked as I got off the boat.

“I wasn’t able to find anything that you could use. However, over the last several weeks people have been inquiring about you. I was actually able to follow one to this address.” he explained as he handed me the parchment.

“Thanks. I’ll pay you after I’m finished looking into this.” I said as I started to walk away from him.

“Don’t you think you should clean up a bit?” he asked.

“Why? There’s no time like the present. If they are eager to find me, there’s no reason I should keep them waiting any longer.” I replied.

Elsewhere...

“Keep searching. Find out who killed my brother, and when you do we’ll start killing his family before we end him.”....