While I don’t want to really provide any details yet publicly, I’ve begun working on something of a side project and am looking for potentially interested parties to contact me directly to learn more/contribute.
The basics (or at least what I’ll divulge publicly for now) of what I’m looking for:
- Contributors (sorry, I can’t get more specific on this one yet)
- If someone has solid graphic design skills and wants to help I would love to hear from you and get some assistance, and the same goes with web/php development skills (not to worry, I’m only looking for help on getting a few things set up initially, and while I’m slowly figuring it out, someone with the skillset that wants to help would make it much easier).
And some basics about the project itself:
- The project is blog-related.
- I’m looking for both guest contributors and regular contributors, so even if you’re concerned about time if you’re interested send me an email.
- Contributions are not limited to articles only, though there will be some guidelines involved.
I know that is still very vague, but without having a definite timeframe for wrapping things up and not knowing the types of responses I will or won’t receive I don’t want to give out too much information too soon. Things are coming along nicely, though, and I’m anticipating being able to launch this endeavor by the end of the month!
Yes. I went and did it again. I changed my UI up drastically. Lately it is as though I love my UI for a while, and then suddenly one element ticks me off and it all changes. I’m starting to really miss the days when I only used one or two small mods to the default UI, but I’m after such a minimalistic approach that I just cannot go back to the default look anymore. Sad… isn’t it? And the best part, I’m wanting to change it again…
Anyway, I thought this might be a good time to give some screenshots of my UI’s evolution, so here we go in order of oldest to most recent starting with the first UI I put together that was not based on the stock UI (and a follow-up post will provide information on what I decide to do with my UI currently):
This layout served me quite well for a long time. My primary frustrations were with the haphazard placement of unit frames and the irritation from having buttons stretch all the way across the bottom of the window. This particular setup actually evolved some (while retaining the ugly factor), as shown here:
This one actually started to look better. Breaking myself from the long-time exposure to having the unit frames in the top left section of the screen started to really open my ideas on how to evolve my UI from this point.
And this is where I finally realized I needed to weed out a lot of the duplicated information I had taking up screen real estate. This is also where I started the drive to be even more minimalistic and actually be able to see the game’s graphics instead of just the information I needed to see per encounter.
The July revision is actually quite nice. Honestly, I could have left it alone and been fairly happy. I wanted to try to open up a little more screen space though, and decided to move a few things around. The result is the UI I am currently using (and am about to change):
Where will I take it from here? Absolutely no idea. I think I may play with state changes more to utilize fewer action bars, or perhaps just relocate the one to the right to not be obscured when I open my bags (for some reason I cannot use any bag addon, they simply irritate me and I have no idea why). Maybe I’ll completely revise it yet again and try to make the elements flow together better. Regardless, I’ll have another post coming in the next few weeks that shows the next iteration of my UI.
By now I’m sure the question of why my UI changes so much has crossed your minds. Well, it has a lot to do with the classes/roles I fill. I’ll end up with a UI setup I absolutely love for healing, but then it doesn’t work well for me tanking. Or I’ll love the minimalistic number of buttons I have on my Druid, only to find I’m short buttons on my Priest or Paladin. My goal is to have one UI setup that works across all of my characters, not to create individual interfaces per character. We’ll see if I get it right this time!
Byaghro, standing off to the side of the Champion’s Ring, watches the competitors intensely fighting until their opponents can no longer stand. Not even the fresh snows of Icecrown can cleanse the blood from the field where hundreds of competitors have had to be carried away.
“Ye be competing today lass?” asks a fellow crusader, an old grizzled dwarf by the name of Arv.
“Nay. The competition no longer holds a challenge. Of course, you know this as well as I,” responds Byaghro, “although I hear the coliseum is nearing completion and will present us with some new challenges soon enough.”
“Aye, them Argent fellas are tryin’ to keep it quiet. Methinks there be somethin’ they’re ‘fraid of involvin’ the place.” Arv pauses a moment before adding, in a hushed tone, “Ye know the Silver Covenant to be involved here…”
Byaghro nods, her eyes never straying from the field before them, “Aye.”
“Well, word is they be plannin’ to use the coliseum to test the crusaders and see who be fit to lead the assault on Icecrown Citadel.”
Finally breaking her gaze away from the field to look at Arv, Byaghro sighs, “For a self-proclaimed scholar you sure have a knack of making the information we all have heard to sound like such a secret.” She laughs, and starts to walk toward the stables, “Come Arv, let us see if you have improved enough to best me today!”
Arv grumbles as he follows Byaghro, “Lass, were I able to beat ya I woulda by now, but I can still make ya work hard for it!”
Disclaimer: Although this story and the subsequent chapters are based on events in-game, they are meant to be completely separate and will, almost certainly, contain completely fictitious pieces of information as well.
Descriptors: Socially Inept, Inadequate, Immature, or “Simply Unintelligent.”
Classification: “Dumbass.”
Technical Definition: (1) One who not only lacks the social skills to interact with others in any meaningful manner but also cannot understand why they are perceived as inferior. (2) One who, through lack of socialization or out of spite of social norms, causes grief to the generally competent people with which they interact.
Guidelines for Interaction:
- Accept full responsibility for being superior to the dumbass by professing how much better the dumbass is than everyone else.
- Compensate for being “a subpar player” compared to the dumbass by picking up the dumbass’ responsibilities in the group, thereby supplying positive reinforcement to the dumbass in question for being a dumbass.
- Laugh with the dumbass at every conceivable chance, including the dumbass’ obviously superior social skills and performance.
- Consistently provide positive reinforcement of the dumbass’ choices by showing damage/healing meters in every encounter, praise the gear and talent choices made, and recommend the dumbass to every person encountered in-game.
Unfortunately little is known about the origin of the dumbass, or why they thrive so much in virtual worlds. Science has attempted to provide social and psychological profiles in order to better understand and appreciate the dumbass subculture, and yet best guesses indicate nothing more than what is presented here.
Recognizing the “Dumbass” in World of Warcraft:
Thankfully this is far easier than many scientists believe. Typical behavior will include excessive use of “leet-speak” or other variations of incomprehensible grammar, damage/healing levels comparable to those attained by other players at a disparity of ten levels lower, attempts to enter content designed for level eighty players in epic gear while wearing combinations of easily attained “greens and blues” (as described by peers), and a complete lack of knowledge (sometimes to the level of barely understanding basic use of a mouse and keyboard).
When contact is established one must be wary, as the dumbass will typically not reveal its true nature until a critical moment, thus providing almost insurmountable levels of frustration to unprepared players that can result in severe emotional and psychological trauma, vehement language, rage, diarrhea, schizophrenia, alcoholism, depression, legal and illegal substance abuse, and possibly even self mutilation.
Now back to the exciting news of new druid forms!
Blood. The field, normally a pure white from the snow, was practically painted red. The remains of villagers were strewn everywhere, not a single man, woman, or child left whole. Although they attempted to fight off the attack, only a couple of scourge bodies were interspersed throughout the carnage.
Kneeling over the dismembered remains of an elder, obviously the former leader of these people, Jeseth felt a wave of emotion akin to a red-hot dagger through her heart. She looked up at Byaghro, an all-consuming fiery rage evident in her eyes.
“These were my people,” she growled, “I was raised by them for a short time after my birth, before I embarked upon the journey that led me to the assassins. They were nomads, living as one with the land around them before moving on to new sources of food.”
Byaghro nodded, her face betraying no sign of her emotions, “It would appear Arthas knows more about us than we would prefer.”
Jeseth slid her hand over the elder’s eyes, closing them gently as she whispered, “Peace to you my friend.”
Laughter emanated from the woodline, causing both to spring into defensive crouches. They stood at an angle to each other, each facing the general direction of the laughter’s source.
A single being emerged, shadowy energy swirling around him much like the priests of the dark. This was obviously no priest, however, nor even apparently mortal. He glided over the field in their direction; his laughter sending chills through them both.
“Aelara… wait… it is Jeseth now is it not?” he laughed again, seemingly even a colder, more vile sound than before, “I am disappointed. It took so long for you to arrive that I had to carve up the bodies to keep myself entertained.”
Byaghro shifted slightly, barely even apparent to Jeseth’s trained eyes, “Might we have the pleasure of learning who you are before your existence ends?”
He cackled, “Byaghro, surely you recognize me? After all, it was you who sent me to hell, though I suppose you thought me dead at the time. Had it not been for an overzealous warlock that might even have become true.”
Jeseth’s hands lay lightly on the hilts of her daggers as she listened, watching for any opening to launch her attack. Again she noticed Byaghro shift slightly, and wondered what the druid was planning.
“Perhaps this form does not fit the memory you have of my previous life.” He chuckled, and morphed into the form of a young blood elf. “This should remind you of what I once was.”
Byaghro gasps, for the first time a hint of anger evident in her voice, “You will not be so fortunate this time.”
“Foolish druid, it took five of you to banish me from this realm originally. Do you really think you stand a chance now?”
Without warning a blast of pure energy struck Byaghro, knocking her into the trees behind them. Laughter erupted from the blood elf’s lungs as he looked at Jeseth.
“What hope do you have, little one? Not even the mighty druid could withstand even a hint of my power!”
He glanced back to the trees, preparing to unleash another bolt in Byaghro’s direction, but she was not there.
He chuckled, “Run away little night elf, prove to the world how cowardly your kind truly is!”
Jeseth flicked a throwing knife at the blood elf, hoping to cause a distraction as she launched herself into an attack, daggers drawn. Suddenly she found herself lying face down and crumpled against a tree. The stench of scorched leather filled her nostrils as she slowly pulled herself up, just in time to see a sleek, muscular feline latch firmly onto the back of their opponent. The cat sank its teeth into his shoulder, ripping and tearing away flesh and crunching bone.
The blood elf morphed back into his hellish form, unleashing a blast of shadowy energy at the same time and knocking the cat backward a few feet. Without missing a beat the cat shifted into Byaghro’s natural form, and unleashed the fury of nature’s wrath against the fiend.
Seizing her opening, Jeseth sprang into the fray. This time her daggers found their mark, burying themselves to the hilt in the fiend’s side. He gasped, and Byaghro seized another opening to rip the tendons from his legs.
As suddenly as it started the fight was over, the fiend gone.
Panting, Jeseth turned to Byaghro, “Well done.”
“He will be back I am afraid,” she turned to face Jeseth, “And it appears we have some common enemies in our past. That fiend used to be a mage, and one whose love for people actually caused the Cenarion Circle to allow his visit from time to time. He betrayed our trust, attempting to absorb the powers of nature and enhance his own magic. At any rate, when he returns he will not underestimate our abilities again. We must move on.”
“He was not a demon…” Jeseth points to a piece of flesh on the ground, “That is part of a dragon’s wing.”
This Series:
- Jeseth’s Introduction, Truth Eternal
- Byaghro’s Introduction, Guardians of Cenarius
- Degenerate’s Introduction, The Ebon Blade
- Convergences (Part One)
- Destruction (Part Two)
- Discoveries (Part Three)
- Loss & Repentance (Part Four)
- Downfalls (Part Five)
- From the Ashes (Part Six)
DISCLAIMER: The events I have been chronicling are not a part of lore, based on any actual story, or even bearing any resemblance to any events in game. I am writing these purely for my enjoyment, and enjoying the story that I am creating based upon the Warcraft Universe.
From The Ashes (Part Six)
“Jeseth was more than simply a man of considerable respect within our ranks. Although unknown to anyone outside our guild, he was also the one who established our alliance, and led us to form the entity that is now spoken of in the darkest of circles… the Merciless Blades. I was his sole pupil, and, until recently, I was known as Aelara.”
Tyrande listens intently. She had known that Jeseth had many secrets, but she had not expected any further assistance from any of the assassins. “What brings you to me now, and why should I not have my Sentinels merely end your wretched existence in these lands?”
Laughing, Aelara responds, “My dear, none save yourself could pose me any threat, and even your attempt would be futile.”
Sinil growls, “I am certain my attempt would be quite successful.”
“Perhaps. I would accept the challenge any other time, but there are much more pressing concerns at hand.”
Byaghro finally steps forward, “Rogue, you mentioned you were known as ‘Aelara’ until recently, why not start there?”
She nods, “Jeseth is the name assumed by the leader of the assassins, and it must persevere. There have been two others before me, and it is now my fate to assume the role and continue the legacy set forth. I am afraid I cannot provide more details without risking the guild, but rest assured our loyalty lies within the decisions Jeseth made, the groundwork he began that I now continue, and the battle before us all.”
“This is interesting news indeed,” says Tyrande. “I had thought Jeseth was acting independently, though he also kept from me his stature among your people.”
“In many ways he was, for it was his undying loyalty to you that led him upon his most recent endeavor and subsequent downfall. Although he issued no such decree, we will not let his death go unanswered. Hold no illusions that my loyalties are the same as his, but I will honor any word I give.”
“That is all any of us can expect of ourselves, much less another,” states Byaghro, “Come, Alexstrasza is waiting.”
Aelara… Jeseth… two others before her? What was his real name then? What other facets of our previous life together were hidden from me?
Sinil takes a deep breath, trying to clear her head of the thoughts.
Whatever the details, it is obvious the love we had was pure… real. I must take comfort in that fact, and use that strength to see this through. I hope to see you again when this is over my love, for this world grows colder without your presence.
How touching. Though this is an interesting turn of events. Even I did not know how important that pathetic bug was to those assassins.
Sinil pauses, and attempts to block her thoughts from Arthas once more.
Have you not realized that your resistance, your wishes, are irrelevant? You will return to me Sinil… soon.
The rogue is a curious one. Our destinies are more entwined than I would have thought possible.
As they reach Alexstrasza she turns to Byaghro, “I know you understand what I am about to ask.”
“You need not even utter the words, we will tend to the matter at once,” she turns to Jeseth, “Do you trust me?”
“I am afraid I trust no one, an unfortunate effect of my work. I will, however, place my faith in the thought that your intentions are honorable,” replies Jeseth.
“Then we depart.” She turns back to Alexstrasza and nods, and suddenly, with only the slightest movement by Alexstrasza, the two disappear.
Alextrasza turns to address Tyrande, Sinil, and the other leaders before her, “Now we wait, and prepare for war.”
This Series:
- Jeseth’s Introduction, Truth Eternal
- Byaghro’s Introduction, Guardians of Cenarius
- Degenerate’s Introduction, The Ebon Blade
- Convergences (Part One)
- Destruction (Part Two)
- Discoveries (Part Three)
- Loss & Repentance (Part Four)
- Downfalls (Part Five)
DISCLAIMER: The events I have been chronicling are not a part of lore, based on any actual story, or even bearing any resemblance to any events in game. I am writing these purely for my enjoyment, and enjoying the story that I am creating based upon the Warcraft Universe.
“I do not know who… what I am anymore. I label myself ‘Degenerate’ because I cannot bear the thought that, somehow, continuing as ‘Sinil’ may condemn all that I held so dearly in my former life.”
Tyrande sits down, resting a hand on her former pupil’s arm, “Fear not this reincarnation of yourself child. Although no longer a direct instrument of Elune, it is obvious you still have her blessing.”
“How can you be so sure? Look at me… I am death. I am the embodiment of that which we have fought for ages, a hollow shell of a woman who once lived, reanimated and cursed with the knowledge that this body is nothing more than a prison for my soul.”
Kill
“Often what we see in ourselves is not what we truly are, but what we have decided we should be. Come with me, I want to show you something,” Tyrande states as she rises.
As she rises to follow Tyrande suddenly turns, hurling a bolt of light at Degenerate. Bracing herself, Degenerate stands solemnly, waiting for the excruciating pain and certain death that would come. She had seen this before with the undead… channeling the pure energy of Elune at one was perhaps the easiest way for a priestess to defend herself from them.
Kill
Nothing.
“You see child, you are not completely undead,” Tyrande whispers, once again turning toward her original destination and motioning for Degenerate to follow.
Stunned, and even more uncertain than before, Degenerate breathes again.
Kill
Arthas, it is time for you to leave my head. You will not regain your power over me, and soon enough I will embark upon my crusade to crush your pathetic, miserable life.
Foolish girl. You have yet to break free of my will!
Wrong Arthas, I have only allowed you to maintain this connection so that you may see that Azeroth will not fold to your desires, to your whims. In some ways we should, perhaps, be thankful. After all, you have provided a means for the people of our lands to set aside their differences and work together, to come for you, and to bring you to justice.
You think yourself clever? Let me show you something…
Degenerate’s head is suddenly filled with an image of… of Ulduar it would appear. Jeseth is there, his voice barely heard upon the roar of the wind, and yet perfectly clear in her mind… “Come! Do your worst Arthas! Pathetic, cowardly dog! I will show you where true strength comes from!” She watches as he leaps into the wind, ever so gracefully. He extends is body as much as possible, and reaches for a ledge.
“NO!” Degenerate screams, falling to her knees and startling Tyrande, who rushes to her side.
You see what happens when my will is opposed?
Sobbing, gasping for breath, Degenerate manages “Jeseth…”
Tyrande immediately understands, and begins an incantation. After a moment she stops, midstream, and her eyes open wide. “How…?” she whispers, her voice trailing off before even the next word could be uttered.
With unbridled ferocity Degenerate hisses, “I will destroy you Arthas. I will tear you apart and crush every piece of your pitiful, worthless body underfoot…” After a moment she regains her composure, and turns to Tyrande, “His death will not be in vain. My love for him reminds me of who I am, of what I was and what I can become… I will go speak with Mograine, and regroup with the others Byaghro is searching out.”
Tyrande nods, “Take comfort child, for Jeseth’s soul is free.”
Sinil. That is who I am, who I was. For Jeseth I will reclaim myself, and avenge his death. I am Degenerate no more…
Byaghro kneels before Ysera’s slumbering form.
“I cannot come to your aid yet, for I am needed here much too urgently in the wake of recent events. Thank you for your guidance Ysera, I can only hope Malfurion will be able to hold out until this battle is over, and we can rush to your aid.”
Rising, she leaps into the air and shifts into the form of a raven, flying swiftly to meet with the rest of the druids now convened.
I only hope Ysera was right when she convinced me this course was the only remaining option… and that Alexstraza does not feel betrayed when she learns of our part in Ysera’s plan.
Byaghro clears her head as she lands, stepping onto a small hillock be seen by all.
“My dear friends, my family, thank you all for coming.”
Hundreds upon hundreds of druids stand calmly together, waiting to hear Byaghro’s report. For this battle none would have their decision made for them. Each would have to make a choice, and follow that path until it has run its course. This time there are no rulers, no allegiances to any but each other.
“As you all know we are facing a growing threat, both here and in the Emerald Dream. Ysera, the Dreamer, has fallen victim to the Nightmare. Malfurion is already at work there, along with all of our brothers and sisters who still slumber, trying to find a way to save our beloved friend. We all know she chose this path to discover the truth behind the Nightmare, and we will see that plan to its completion no matter the cost.”
Byaghro pauses as she scans the faces before her.
“I come before you now, however, to relay some circumstances we were not aware of. Loken has apparently taken control of Ulduar, and though we know not of his plans we know enough to warrant it a huge threat to all of our people. Even the Aspects are concerned, and are planning to intervene. Combined with the threat we face from Arthas, I fear this is the beginning of a very dark time for all of Azeroth.”
As Byaghro relays her message the concern and fear that can be seen across the faces of all gathered quickly gives way to determination. Druids, no matter their background or differences, hold an unwavering allegiance to each other.
“The plan is to meet at the Wyrmrest Temple in a week’s time, and from there those who elect to go will begin our march on Icecrown. This path will end in destruction, hold no illusion otherwise, for either we will meet our downfall or Arthas will meet his.”
The Guardians of Cenarius have chosen. The fury of nature herself will descend upon Icecrown Citadel.
This Series:
- Jeseth’s Introduction, Truth Eternal
- Byaghro’s Introduction, Guardians of Cenarius
- Degenerate’s Introduction, The Ebon Blade
- Convergences (Part One)
- Destruction (Part Two)
- Discoveries (Part Three)
- Loss & Repentance (Part Four)
DISCLAIMER: The events I have been chronicling are not a part of lore, based on any actual story, or even bearing any resemblance to any events in game. I am writing these purely for my enjoyment, and enjoying the story that I am creating based upon the Warcraft Universe.
Part Three
Ulduar… the legends at least have some truth to them…
Surveying the abandoned city below, Byaghro becomes lost in thought. So many things left unexplained, so many questions now brought forth.
We knew Alexstrasza felt pushed, otherwise she would not have involved the dragonkin even at the Wrathgate… but if the Titans still exist, and if Loken truly is working to…
Her thoughts trail off, an understanding of the dangers Azeroth truly faces for Alexstrasza to have become involved starting to fully be realized. Arthas is a very real, very dangerous threat, but one that the realms can recover from as long as heroes are willing to stand against him. Add in the threat that Loken represents, and this may well be the end of our time.
I wish Malfurion had been able to stay for more than a few hours. Hopefully his absence from the Emerald Dream for even such a short time did not cause all that we have fought for to be lost…
Byaghro leaps from her observation point, shifting gracefully into her flight form and soaring across the apparent ruins.
Something still does not feel right.
With a speed unmatched by most of her brethren, Byaghro soars toward Wyrmrest Temple. If her fears are correct then the day has arrived when all of the aspects and the mortal races will have to work together, or perish together.
I only hope this war with Malygos has not eliminated too many of their number already…
Seeming delighted by her arrival, Alexstrasza uncharacteristically greets Byaghro personally, “Welcome back, child. I was hoping to see you return quickly.”
Unfazed by the unusual behavior of the dragon queen, Byaghro pauses to face her, “Perhaps this is not the time for pleasantries Alexstrasza. I fear things more grim than even I originally imagined.”
“It is true that even time has become a liability for our peoples, but I do not think things are quite as dire as they appear.”
Byaghro only whispers, “Ulduar.”
Alexstrasza smiles grimly, “Yes, it does exist, and yes, Loken is causing many problems. However, there are many chapters to that story already. Arthas is more of an immediate concern than Loken.” Suddenly she pales, looking almost devoid of life. Barely audible, a whisper escapes, “Ysera…”
At the mention of The Dreamer Byaghro stops and closes her eyes, apparently lost in thought.
“I’m sorry Alexstrasza…” she whispers, “I feared Malfurion’s brief trip here might prove detrimental.”
“She was already in trouble with the ever growing Nightmare. We both feared this may be the only way to find its source, though I certainly hope we can free her of its taint. This was her intent, and why she has secluded herself from so many for so long.”
“I will go to the Moonglade and see what support I can garner. I am afraid our time has run out. War is upon us all, and all of our fates intrinsically entwined.”
“I am inclined to agree. We will reconvene here in two week’s time. I will personally speak with the leaders of the Alliance and the Horde. I only hope they can set their differences aside long enough to meet…”
Without another word Byaghro whispers an incantation, and disappears from sight.
Previous Posts In This Series:
- Jeseth’s Introduction, Truth Eternal
- Byaghro’s Introduction, Guardians of Cenarius
- Degenerate’s Introduction, The Ebon Blade
- Convergences (Part One)
- Destruction (Part Two)
DISCLAIMER: The events I have been chronicling are not a part of lore, based on any actual story, or even bearing any resemblance to any events in game. I am writing these purely for my enjoyment, and enjoying the story that I am creating based upon the Warcraft Universe.
Part Two
The blood of hundreds upon hundreds of foul beasts soaks the field, creating an awful stench that could make even the most seasoned fighter nauseous. The snow, previously so white and pure that it hurt the eyes, is now such an eerie, vile crimson that this place resembles a deep, dark pit of hell.
Weary, and breathing quite hard, Jeseth emerged from the mouth of a cavern after chasing the apparent scourge force’s leader into its depths. The look in his eyes confirmed the wretched creature did not survive.
Time is even more precious than I thought… to spare so many in an attempt to wipe out a small group implies…
Byaghro’s thoughts broke off abruptly as she noticed movement in the distance. In a movement so quick it startled her companions, she shapeshifted into her feline form and disappeared from sight. Uncertain what had just transpired, Jeseth suddenly melded into the shadows nearby and started on a path toward where Byaghro disappeared from view.
Warily, Degenerate dropped to one knee. Appearing to drop her sword from exhaustion, she mentally prepared herself to unleash a magical fury upon whatever threat dared show itself. Without warning she fell to the ground, a blood-curdling scream making everything stop in its tracks.
You will not break free…
Barely understandable through the pain in her voice, Degenerate screams back, “I am no longer under your command Arthas!
It is Mograine’s folly to believe that my power is not strong enough to control mere puppets.
Before she could retort another wave of excruciating pain erupts through her body, almost stopping her from even breathing. Her mind struggles to form a single coherent thought, to rebel against the strength of his voice.
From the edge of the forest a new figure emerges. Covered from head to tail in robes the color of blood, it seems to glide gracefully over the ground toward Degenerate. The mysterious person watches for a moment as she writhes in agony, seeming lost in a deep thought or immensely enjoying the pain it was causing… only the passing of a few more moments would tell.
Cold, quiet laughter escapes his lips as he drops his cowl around his shoulders. In a voice barely above a whisper he asks, “Did you really think I would forget the sins you visited upon my family, my friends? It was so easy… your fear of not truly being free of Arthas’s grasp allowed me to amplify that fear, practically controlling you.”
Degenerate growls, unable to escape the pain long enough to do anything else.
This fool dares question my power!? RISE!
With any feeling of pain, of free thought, or even any realization of her actions suddenly gone, Degenerate leaps to her feet with sword in hand. Her eyes glow a deep, unusually red color. Her voice seems different, if such is even remotely possible for the undead.
Snarling, she advances toward this mere nuisance, “How dare you question my powers mortal. I will destroy you, ripping you limb from limb.”
He just laughs, this time it actually seems genuine, perhaps even joyful.
From the forest’s edge Byaghro emerges, walking side by side with High Priestess Tyrande and the Aspect of the Red Dragonflight, Alexstrasza.
“As you can see, this one is unique. She was never completely severed from the Lich King, and yet she is mostly able to keep his influence at bay. This gives me hope,” Byaghro calmly explains.
“Thank you for endangering yourself and your brethren to find her,” Tyrande answers, “Had Arthas been able to take complete control of her I fear the might of all the Druids in Azeroth may not have been enough.”
“Do not underestimate their strength Tyrande,” Alexstrasza chides, “This one alone is going to surprise even you with her prowess.”
“Dark times do tend to reveal the greatness in others… as we both know so well,” whispers Tyrande. “Shall we intercede now, or let the filth be killed first?”
Quietly, Jeseth emerges from the shadows to stand behind them. Turning to face him, Tyrande bows graciously, “I am truly sorry for not revealing the true nature of my request. I knew of your love for her, and hoped that seeing you would give her the strength to break completely free on her own. This death knight is not like the others, for she was one of my most trusted and strongest priestesses. Even in death her ties to Elune have only grown stronger, though she will never again be able to wield the powers of the light.”
“When we ran into each other again I suspected the truth. You know you only have to ask and I will travel to the pits of even hell to aid you,” he answers calmly.
Sighing, Byaghro whispers something the others cannot discern. In the distance Degenerate becomes entangles in roots, unable to move even the slightest muscle.
Calling out to the man in the field she exclaims, “You know, you could have just done that yourself!”
Tyrande gasps in disbelief as the man removes his mask.
“Malfurion…” she whispers, tears welling in her eyes and her voice cracking.
Explanations will come in time my love, we must help this child first.
Tyrande only nods, too shocked at the sight of her love to worry about anything else at this moment. Byaghro steps forward, taking her place at Malfurion’s side.
Previous Posts In This Series:
- Jeseth’s Introduction, Truth Eternal
- Byaghro’s Introduction, Guardians of Cenarius
- Degenerate’s Introduction, The Ebon Blade
- Convergences (Part One)
DISCLAIMER: The events I have been chronicling are not a part of lore, based on any actual story, or even bearing any resemblance to any events in game. I am writing these purely for my enjoyment, and enjoying the story that I am creating based upon the Warcraft Universe.
Direbrewfest
Argent Confessor
Kiss and Make Up (10 player)
Heroic: Trial of the Champion
