Legion Prelude: Vicaaryna/Pe'phriem

## Prologue: Misguided Vengeance

A tall draenei in ornate, gilded armour burst through the door leading to the command bridge of the ship. He sighed with relief, seeing that he had found who he was looking for.

Standing next to a massive window, with her back turned to his anxious second-in-command, staring into the vast darkness of the Great Dark Beyond and seemingly utterly unfazed by the blaring alarms: the ship's captain, High Vindicator Vicaaryna, the picture of a high-ranking officer of the Army of the Light. If there was one thing she's learned at the Academy, it was the 'officer stance'; there she was, stood with her legs slightly apart, arms crossed behind her back over her hips, her demeanor appearing calm, her stare, unwavering. But she was inexperienced and young, her facade of professionalism served no other purpose than to mask the inner turmoil of an orphaned little girl thrust into the field of unending battle with an endless army of bloodthirsty demons by her own ambition and lust for vengeance.

- CAPTAIN! The hull's been breached, we need to crash-land on that nearby planet!

The High Vindicator slowly turned to her panicked subordinate.

- Calm your senses, Navigator. Now, give me a thorough report. What is it exactly that happened? - she asked, her voice soft, yet authoritative.

- We have been... Hit. W-with an unknown object, several crew members have been found mutilated, eviscerated and immolated... - he looked around frantically before lowering his trembling voice to a whisper and continuing. - *Something* is on this ship, Captain, and it's picking us off one by one, we are... We are losing altitude quickly, and - Vicaaryna interrupted him.

- Navigator Itharios, do you mean to tell me there is an impostor... *among us*? Mutiny? Infighting?

- Highly unlikely milady. Call it a hunch, but... I believe it must be related to the thing we've been hit with.

- I will deal with it myself, then - Vicaaryna said, turning back towards the vast emptiness of space.

The navigator seemed shocked for a moment, but quickly composed himself, knowing with full confidence that his High Vindicator is more than capable of handling the peril.

- Very well. Light be with you, Captain - he said, saluting.

- Light be with you, Itharios - Vicaaryna returned the gesture, turning back towards him before walking away. - Try to land the ship safely while I look for the source of this. We *need* to get to Azeroth. They have requested reinforcements - she commanded without looking back. Itharios saluted one last time.

The sliding door hissed as it closed behind the Captain. She walked down a hall filled with the corpses of her former crewmates, the walls and windows covered in a macabre, intermittent pattern of blue blood splatters and scorch marks. The only light illuminating the gruesome scene was the one emanating from her armour, and the occasional red flash of the alarm. Vicaaryna looked around with disgust mixed with a sense of impending doom and a hint of grief. Some of the bodies - once respectable soldiers of the Army, devout followers of the Holy Light, beacons of hope and justice, some even former classmates of hers from the Academy - had their heads ripped clean off, others had their torsos scratched open, their organs spilling onto the floor, but they each shared two things in common: being covered in burn marks and the expression of pure agony and terror frozen on their faces. A stomach-churning cavalcade of odours assaulted Vicaaryna's delicate nose; the stench of burnt flesh, coupled with the metallic smell of blood that permeated the hallway. As she turned a corner, she heard the anguished scream of her navigator and quickened her pace.

As she reached the generator room, Vicaaryna drew her sword. Standing in front of her was a skinny, almost emaciated-looking humanoid whose entire body looked almost intangible, yet dangerously real, it was as if a dark, almost entirely pitch-black mass forced into the shape of a bipedal creature. Its head was what truly scared her. The only thing she could liken it to was a talbuk, but its eyes were fiery and piercing, burning with directionless and unbridled rage, fixed firmly on its prey - the smouldering remains of Itharios that it held in its clenched hand.

- What... Are you? - she asked with genuine confusion, the blade in her hand trembling with fear.

The being dropped the charred corpse onto the ground and turned to meet her gaze, letting out a menacing clicking sound as it tilted its head, ready to lunge at her. Vicaaryna readied herself, then...

The encounter was cut short by a blinding flash and a deafening sound of an explosion as the ship finally made contact with the rocky, sandy terrain of planet Kerision-616.

## Volume 1: An Unlikely Chance Meeting

### Chapter 1: Flirting with Disaster

When the Captain came to her senses, the first thing she felt was the searing light of the nearby star around which the planet orbited. Then the coarseness of the sand beneath her. Then the maddening pain in her left hoof. It took several agonising minutes to free her foot from the wreckage, and another few to heal herself and get back on her feet.

The Captain looked around. The desert planet stretched out beneath the cloudless sky, its barren landscape littered with chunks of the wreckage of the *Perenaar*. Amidst the desolation, Vicaaryna found herself stranded and alone, the endless dunes echoing the haunting silence of her isolation. Within the charred remnants of the once-proud ship, she scavenged for supplies, her keen eyes searching for any sign of hope. In the mostly intact captain's quarters, she stumbled upon a relic of her past – a holo-frame buried beneath some debris. She sweeped the dust off of it and turned it on. It displayed a family photo of her as a child, her infant sister Anaya, and their father Aan'dros, in a loving embrace, laughing. She hugged the holo-frame to her chest and closed her eyes, sighing.

A presence lurked in the distance. The *thing* apparently survived the crash, its eyes flickering with a mix of anger and confusion. It crawled out of what was left of the generator room, stumbling to find its left arm, completely torn off by the impact. The being grasped the separated limb firmly, pushing it against the stump, resulting in small, pitch-black tendrils slowly coiling out of the open wound, rebuilding the connective tissue tendon by tendon.

Vicaaryna, after folding the holo-frame and pocketing it, attempted to contact the Army for help. She sat down, propping her back up against a supply box and put the transmitter's control panel on her lap. After a few moments of fidgeting with the wires, the communication array flickered to life, and her rushed distress signal echoed through the cosmic void.

In an instance, the transmitter let out a loud, electrical fizzling sound and lit up with sparks, then the screen went dark and smoke began coiling out of the small box. The paladin sighed, let go of the gadget, letting it tumble away from her and tilted her head back, resting it on the box.

- Just my luck... - she mumbled defeatedly.

After a day of scavenging and gathering supplies, the High Vindicator reentered her cabin and fell into a restless sleep.

- Please do hurry, honey... - a worried-looking, pregnant draenei woman said, her voice faltering. She was holding Vicaaryna by her hand, leading her through an underground tunnel. Around them, the walls of Shattrath City echoed with the sounds of slaughter.

- Mommy? Where are we going? - Vicaaryna asked teary-eyed.

- To someplace safe, my sweet starlight... Everything will be... - her sentence was cut short by a single orc jumping out of the shadows, his jagged sword glancing her side. She yelped in pain, falling over on the ground.

- Aka'riel! - a tall, muscular draenei yelled, rushing to her aid, punching the orc in the face with all his might. The mighty warlord grunted, staggered and fell backwards, dropping his unsightly weapon, needing both of his hands to hold back the spray of blood from his nose. The draenei picked the sword up, slashing its former owner several times in the abdomen, splattering blood all over the passageway's walls. Vicaaryna screamed, cupping her tiny hands over her eyes.

- Aan'dros... My darling... - Aka'riel's voice got weaker as she laid on the ground. Her husband threw the sword on the ground and picked her up with a somber expression on his face.

- Come, Vicaaryna! We are leaving this place - Aan'dros whispered.

As soon as the three stepped outside the city, Aka'riel's water broke. Her husband quickly took her to the safety of a nearby village, where, shortly thereafter, she gave birth to her second daughter. Exhaustion, her infested wounds and finally, giving birth proved to be too much for the woman, however. She gestured for Vicaaryna. She walked up to her, tears in her eyes. Aka'riel held her daughter's hands and turned her head towards the baby.

- See, little starlight? This is Anaya. Your little sister... Please... Please take care of her... I love you... - she whispered as she closed her eyes for the last time.

Months passed, the three avoiding the orcish Horde as they ravaged the land, massacring or enslaving all draenei they came across. Hiding in a makeshift hut, Aan'dros hugged her elder daughter before putting on his pack basket and venturing outside to scavenge for food.

- Please, take care of Anaya for me... - he said exhaustedly.

Vicaaryna nodded. This was the last time she ever saw her father *or* her sister. After walking outside the hut to wave goodbye to her father like she always did, she saw a group of orcs capturing her father almost immediately, apparently having stalked them for a while. They bound Aan'dros' starved and atrophied body in rusted chains. Vicaaryna wanted to scream but she knew she mustn't. What made her want to scream even more was the playful glimmer of two tiny, bright blue eyes from under the lid of her father's scavenging basket. Little Anaya thought crawling inside the basket was fun and safe. Vicaaryna fell to her knees. She had lost everything in the blink of an eye. As she was quietly sobbing, she felt a warmth approaching her. The little draenei turned around to see a bright light. A naaru? No... It was natural light.

Vicaaryna awoke to the blinding rays of the star oozing into her cabin through the cracks on the ceiling. She slowly sat up, rubbing her eyes. Looking down on her hands, she saw her own tears. She sighed, then got dressed and prepared herself to survive another day. Before going back to scavenging, however, she decided to bury the entirety of her former crew in the golden sand.

As soon as she finished the last grave, she heard a sandstorm rolling in, so she quickly ran back into her cabin once again, shutting the door and slumping down in the corner farthest away from the crack. Now alone with her thoughts, Vicaaryna began reflecting on her situation. - What could have happened to my family? Are any of them alive, let alone safe? Was joining the Army, getting lightforged and training to get stronger just to take my revenge on the Legion even worth it? - she thought. The paladin buried her face into her hands. - My own conquest for vengeance was all that I cared for. I have become callous, unfeeling, uncaring. Have I not? I have just buried several bodies without even flinching... Those were living, feeling creatures not long ago... - she shook her head. Her thoughts began racing, - Have I really become this desensitised? Yet... I long for connection, but I do not even know when was the last time I have had a proper conversation with anyone... The truth is, I didn't even care if I would not have survived the crash - she admitted to herself bitterly. - I have nothing left to lose...

The storm was over. She stepped out into the desert landscape.

As soon as she did, she felt something approach her from behind. She was barely able to dodge the massive, infernal fireball, it hitting her cabin instead, boring a smouldering hole through its side. Her millennia-long experience fighting many enemies of the Light in many different scenarios on varied terrains didn't fail her however; she was quick to turn to face her attacker and bind it in chains of Light. It was the same lanky being that slaughtered her crew. As it was shackled by the Light, it began chaotically writhing around, emitting an ear-splitting screech.

- I'll ask you once again - she said, and as she heard her own voice tremble, she realised that she is, for the first time in millennia, finally feeling something - immense dread. She was in fact, afraid. Afraid of the unknown, the unknowable. - What are you, and why have you slaughtered my crew?

The being let out an inhuman screech and gazed directly into her eyes. The paladin understood the signal immediately and loosened her grip.

- There. Better? Can we talk now? - she asked drily.

- ...talk? - the creature's voice was unlike anything she's ever heard before, it sounded like multiple voices speaking at once, an ensemble of higher and lower-pitched voices, some screaming, some speaking in a hushed whisper. Vicaaryna shuddered.

- Yes, I want to understand-

- You and your people are the reason why I am here to begin with - the creature struggled to speak Draenei, but his voice was full of seething anger. - Do not think, even for a moment, that shedding your green flames in favour of golden ones will fool anyone, eredar.

- Eredar? You are referring to the Burning Legion, no? - Vicaaryna raised an eyebrow. - We-

- Oh, you know it all too well what I am talking about. I will take revenge for my planet.

- Wait, wait... This is all a big misunderstanding- - her fear suddenly turned into sympathy.

- And I will clear it up once and for all - the thing seethed.

Vicaaryna felt the creature trying to lunge at her, so she tightened her grip once again. It screeched in agony.

- Listen to me you... whatever you are! We have a common enemy - she yelled, still shaken by her dream. -The demons you speak of are related to us by ancestry, but we hate them as much as you do - she felt the creature's anger subside, so she loosened her grip.

- You do not understand... - the being's voice turned somber - My planet-

- OUR PLANET WAS CLEAVED IN HALF BY THE BURNING LEGION! - she yelled, closing her eyes. Tears began rolling down her face. - WE HAVE HAD TO RUN FROM THEM ON MULTIPLE OCCASIONS, MY FATHER AND MY SISTER WERE TAKEN BY THEIR PAWNS, I HAVE NOT A DAMN CLUE WHERE THEY ARE, OR IF THEY ARE EVEN STILL ALIVE, AND YOU'RE THE ONE TELLING ME ABOUT HOW BAD THEY ARE?! - she fell to her knees sobbing, letting go of the creature completely,

- ...oh.

By the time Vicaaryna has finished explaining what happened to Argus, who the draenei are in relation to the eredar and who the Lightforged are, the planet's star disappeared under the horizon, and the night set over the desert world. The paladin used a survival pack she was able to salvage to build a makeshift campfire. After the sixth unsuccessful attempt to light the fire, her tinderbox broke and she threw it over her shoulder in frustration with an annoyed grunt. The shadow being, without saying a word, raised his hand, clenched it into a fist, then pointed his outstretched palm at the campfire, unleashing a fireball at it, making it instantly catch on fire. The paladin looked at the roaring campfire, then at the being, but didn't say a word. She sat down on a broken crystal fragment and motioned wordlessly for the being to sit next to her. It looked at her as if she was insulting its mother.

-Sit - Vicaaryna said calmly, her voice still somewhat hoarse from yelling. The creature warily plopped down next to her, and the two sat in complete silence for a while. The paladin eventually spoke.

- You never told me your name - she said, just to break the awkward silence.

- You do not care and you do not need to know - the thing declared sharply.

- Alright, I'll call you Tommy then - she said, finally being able to smile. She surprised even herself.

- That's not my name - "Tommy" said, sounding a bit more frustrated.

- You're basically a tomcat, I find it fitting - she giggled. She felt... Happy?

- What is a tomcat? - it asked, its anger having turned into curiosity.

- The same thing as you, only smaller, and hairier - the paladin laughed. She has found someone to talk to. The joy that this realisation gave her was astonishing. The creature took a few moments to process the information.

Using his temporary surprise, Vicaaryna, acting without even thinking about what she was doing, inched closer to "Tommy" for warmth. The latter, having seemingly adapted a draenei form - an unnaturally skinny, black-skinned draenei in lackluster, black and red clothes - didn't seem to mind. Vicaaryna stopped.

- Hang on... You're a shapeshifter? - the paladin's eyes widened.

The creature slowly turned to look her dead in the eye. - My kind are able to analyse the body and mind of all specimens of all lifeforms we come across. No, *able* is not the right word. We are... *Come-pelled* to do so - it is second nature to us. We absorb knowledge like you do air. Then, using the information we've gathered, we may choose to *all-go-rhythmically* create an avatar of that race of lifeform for ourselves. But a long, hard look is enough to learn about traditions, customs, gestures, everything - he flashed an uncanny smile at her, attempting to replicate what the paladin did earlier.

The paladin's eyes met his. For the first time, she was able to get a good look of the being's crimson red sclera and pitch-black, cat-like iris that dilated slowly when she looked at him. That, coupled with the grin, was enough to make her shudder again.

- Oookay, I wasn't planning on sleeping tonight anyways... - The paladin slowly turned her wide-eyed stare to the ground in front of her. She sat quietly for a few moments, then spoke again.

- How did you even find us? You bore a hole straight through the hull of the ship - she said, scratching her neck.

- Lucky coincidence. I, along with another, was flung off from Ys'thriss after the Legion attacked and, after drifting for untold eons, your ship got between me and the closest planet's gravitational pull.

- ...so you can't fly?

He smiled.

- No, it was all about *mow-men-tomb* - he said confidently.

- It's pronounced "momentum"- she corrected him with a smile. - But this means we *have* to wait for a rescue team - Vicaaryna sighed. - Can we at least go into that escape pod for the night? - she pointed at a large, white cylinder with a single door, it seemed intact, unlike most of the debris around it - You *kind of* destroyed my room - she smiled. "Tommy" hung his head with shame.

- No hard feelings though, you couldn't have known - she poked him in the side.

The two walked towards the escape pod. Its door opened with a hiss, revealing a pristine interior. The four heatable seats were covered in the finest synthetic silk, which was in a deep shade of purple. The paladin sat down on one of them, opened a latch on the armrest and with the push of a button, converted it into a bed, then gently tapped on it, motioning for "Tommy" to sit next to her, which he sheepishly did. Vicaaryna immediately laid down, trembling, and turned on the heating.

- The nights are so chilly on this planet - she said between chattering teeth. "Tommy" instinctively laid next to her and put his arm on her. She was surprised, but she didn't mind it.

- It's... Pe'phriem by the way, that is the name I was given... But I've grown to like "Tommy".

- Yeah, there's *no way* I'm pronouncing that, it's "Tommy".

He smiled.

- Lights out! - Vicaaryna said. The voice recognition software let out an affirmative chirp and the lamp turned off, leaving the two in complete and utter darkness. She turned towards the being.

- Could you... Embrace me? I am cold.

- Embrace? What does that mean?

- This...

- I understand you want to join the Army, yes? - a tall, armoured draenei asked.

-Yes sir - Vicaaryna shakily replied.

- Aren't you a little bit too young for that? - the recruitment officer said, furrowing his brows.

- I... My father and my sister... They were taken... - the little draenei muttered, tearing up.

- Alright, let me scan your identification chip... - the man replied, his voice softening. As he raised his scanner to her wrist, his eyes widened.

- Welcome to the Army of the Light, Cadet - he said, saluting humbly.

- Huh? - she said, tilting her head inquisitively.

Vicaaryna's eyes popped open. The escape pod's sensors indicated that the star is up, and it is time to wake up, and signaled this with soft beeping and opening all five windows at the same time. The High Vindicator sat up and began unpacking one of the emergency rations for breakfast. As she sneaked a peek over her shoulder, she saw "Tommy" sleeping like a baby, still curled up on the bed. She couldn't help but smile. - He really is like a cat... - she thought. She looked back and saw him wide awake, standing right behind her.

- Good morning, Captain.

Vicaaryna isn't the type to get frightened easily, but she nearly dropped the pre-packaged dried meat she was holding at that sight.

- WHAT- How?

- Are you hungry, Captain? - Pe'phriem replied with a smile.

Vicaaryna felt herself blush.

- I'm not even a Captain anymore... - she mumbled.

- You gave me a nickname as well, can I call you Vicky?

- I-

Vicaaryna composed herself.

- Yes, I indeed am hungry, do you want anything? Oh, and if you scare me like that again, it's back in the "*pain-chain*" for you - she said, trying to act tough.

- Oh, come now, Vicky, no need to get so upset, it was but an innocent little prank. And no, thank you, I have no need for... - he felt his stomach rumble - sustenance... But it seems like this form does. Figures, I myself wouldn't have needed rest either.

- I already wanted to tell you yesterday, but you are frighteningly fast at learning our language. My Exarch would love to study you - she said while rifling through a supply box.

- Exarch? Study? - "Tommy" tilted his head. Vicaaryna looked up from the box to face him, then shook her head and waved her hand dismissively.

- Nevermind. Anyways, we have dried meat and fruit... - she said as she dug through the contents of the reinforced crate - purified water and some preserved bread. It's not much but for now it will have to do. What would you like?

- I... Well... What are any of those things, and what does it even feel like to eat? All, I think. Some of all.

- One hundred percent cat - Vicaaryna thought to herself, smiling.

The two walked outside, the cool morning breeze blowing their hair.

- Tommy, be a dear and do that fire thing again. I'm making a soup from what we have - the paladin said while combating the wind's attempts at ruining her hairdo.

- From cosmic avenger, harbinger of death and destruction to a glorified tinderbox... - he said with mock annoyance in his voice.

- Listen, if you don't want warm food, that's fine by me. But I say, if you have powers, use them - Vicaaryna said, putting her hands on her hips. The wind apparently took this as a sign of surrender and blew her hair straight into her face. She sighed.

- As you command, High Vindicator. - "Tommy" shook his head and lit the fire, then sat down on a pile of debris.

The paladin carefully placed a pot over the burning campfire and poured some water in it. While she waited for it to boil, she sat down next to "Tommy".

This time, *he* broke the silence.

- So... How long until we get somewhere more... Hospitable? It seems as this place does not many creatures house from which many sustenance could be gained.

Vicaaryna smiled to herself hearing Pe'phriem's oddly verbose, yet very broken Draenei, then poked the fire with a charred, broken piston she brought over from the pile of miscellaneous debris earlier.

- I sent the distress signal two days ago, they should be here any day now, and-

- It's adorable - "Tommy" suddenly interjected.

- What is? - Vicaaryna turned to him with a surprised expression.

- The way you roll those "r" sounds. "Distrrress". You're precious, you know that?

- W- I- So we needn't worry, help is on its way - the paladin said, blushing deeply.

The water began boiling and the paladin put the ingredients into the pot one by one. She snuck a peek at Pe'phriem and saw that he was staring at her intently with a certain glow in his eyes she hasn't ever seen before. When she finished assembling the soup, she sat back down next to "Tommy".

- Vicky... - he softly said. - What is this constant pulsating I feel inside my chest? Is this a thing living things have? - he asked, tapping his own chest gently, as if trying to gauge what this weird new thing's intentions could be.

- It's called a heart. Yes, most creatures have one - she said absently.

- And why does it pulsate faster whenever I look at you? - Pe'phriem asked, his pupils visibly dilating.

- W- Well hearts beat faster whenever one is in danger, under stress, physical exertion, or - Vicaaryna, now flustered, began explaining but "Tommy" interrupted.

- No, I feel... Warmth.

- You see... There is this thing called love... - the paladin mumbled.

- Love? I have never heard of it but... It sounds like something I wish to know more about.

- You see, when you find the person you wish to spend the rest of eternity with, you begin feeling a certain way. Things such as... Feeling as if a thousand tiny terromoths were flying around in your belly, your heart beating faster than the speed of light, and the warmth of a million suns all throughout your body, and- - she stopped. "Tommy" was clutching her hand with both of his hands.

- Vicky... Will you spend the rest of eternity with me? - his pupils dilated as he stared at the paladin. She realised she's gotten used to the creature's unnatural eyes.

- I- Well- I, uh...

- Tell me more! What do people who feel this love do? - he leaned closer, his eyes lighting up. Vicky was visibly flustered.

- W-well they- They- They kiss and-

- What's a kiss? - "Tommy" asked, his eyes widening. This proved to be the breaking point for the paladin, as she leaned closer and planted a kiss on his lips.

- This, now don't ask more questions about it for a bit, okay? Okay. Great! Thank you! Have a lovely evening!

Vicaaryna jolted up, ran to the escape pod and shut the door behind herself. "Tommy" looked at the tightly closed airlock with a puzzled expression. He was unsure what just happened, but he loved it. What bothered him was the paladin's screaming, barely muffled by a pillow.

The escape pod's door began slowly opening with an audible hiss. As soon as the opening was large enough, Vicky rolled out, got on her feet and began running towards the pot, repeating a word "Tommy" did not understand.

- The soup! I've almost burnt it!

- Can I ask what the word you said means? This... Fu-

- WHAT DID I TELL YOU ABOUT QUESTIONS FOR A WHILE? - Vicky turned to him with an anxious grin, her face a deep shade of blue from embarrassment.

### Chapter 2: Enter Vindicator Deuteros

In the barracks of the 5th Division's flagship, the *Netherwader*, Vindicator Deuteros stirred from his slumber. The distress signal reached his ears, causing him to groan and roll over to his side. The signal cried out once more. Deuteros scowled and and clenched his eyelids tighter, The signal echoed a third time. Deuteros sat up and rubbed his eyes with an unimpressed expression, before climbing down the ladder of his bunk bed, equipping his black and gold armour, and making his bleary way through the blinding white hall to the communications array. The message was a garbled mess, obviously ciphered. The Vindicator furrowed his brow and scratched at his golden sideburns with one hand, while pressing a button to request a serving of energisant from the automated dispenser. As the machine whirred to life, pouring the violet liquid into a crystal cup accompanied with a rhythmic hum, Deuteros rubbed his face with his palm and squinted at the holo-display. The beverage dispenser let out a gentle beep, signaling that the drink is ready. After several failed attempts to grab the cup, Deuteros finally managed to grab hold of his much-needed energisant and greedily sipped at the liquid. At that moment, the realisation hit him; the message was ciphered using a simple code reversal. The Vindicator ran his hand along the dashboard until he found the correct dial. Turning it a hundred and eighty degrees revealed an urgent distress call from High Vindicator Vicaaryna. Deuteros' eyes widened. The message was still somewhat garbled, the High Vindicator's words were constantly interrupted by static.

- This is High Vindi......aryna, Sector Army Fifty-One.....sion Sixteen. My ship.....destroyed, my crew slaugh.......appear to be the sole survivor of the........my location is six..........Kerision-616.......send help as soon as.........void being stalking me........end transmission.

Deuteros was shaken but his interest was piqued. The *Perenaar* has been shot down? The High Vindicator is in danger? Void being? - This is my time to shine - he thought - I will save the High Vindicator and prove myself to Exarch Caliestes. She might even let me join the Extermination Squadron! - Deuteros let loose a toothy grin, downing what remained of his energisant. He immediately contacted his respective High Vindicator, Ooleeya. The holo-display sprung to life once again, the image of a somewhat displeased-looking draenei appearing on it; her arms crossed behind her back, signaling her authority.

- What is it, Soldier? - she asked sharply.

- Good evening to you too, High Vindicator. It is I, Deuteros. I have just received a distress call from the lovely High Vindicator Vicaaryna, she has been stranded on planet Kerision-616.

- Don't get cocky with *me*, Deuteros - the High Vindicator narrowed her eyes - You mean to tell me the *Perenaar* is out of commission? I am sending a rescue team there immediately-

- Do you think I would just call you to report a distress call? High Vindicator Ooleeya, I volunteer to go there myself and rescue her - Deuteros looked up with a gleam in his eyes.

- Yourself. This is unlike you, Deuteros. What is with this sudden show of seflessness? - Ooleeya tilted her head inquisitively.

- Oh, you know - Deuteros kicked his hooves up on the dashboard - Camaraderie. I can't let an esteemed member of our sacred Army suffer.

- Yes, and you have no ulterior motives whatsoever - Ooleeya raised an eyebrow - I know you to be a troublemaker, Deuteros. But... As a sign of good faith, I will allow it. You and Subdivision Forty-Two depart tomorrow aboard the *Legionbreaker*. You bring back the High Vindicator safe and sound, and I might even consider trusting you. You are dismissed, Vindicator.

- Thank you, High Vindicator. I will not disappoint - Deuteros said, saluting - Oh, and... High Vindicator? - he glanced at the solid argunite replacement for Ooleeya's left horn, which she lost in a battle not long ago - I love what you've done with your horns - he winked - Deuteros, out.

- You little... - Ooleeya's attempt at a rebuttal was cut short by Deuteros abruptly ending the transmission.

The Vindicator leaned back in his chair and interlocked his hands on the back of his head.

- Oh, I'm going to enjoy this... - he laughed.

The soup was ready. Vicaaryna took the pot off the fire and went into the escape pod to bring out some bowls and silverware. "Tommy" looked on, expectantly. She poured out two bowlfuls of the soup she made, which was surprisingly hearty and smelled delicious despite the limited resources, and handed one of the bowls to "Tommy". He looked at it, swirled it around, then attempted to pour it into his mouth. The paladin covered her face with her palm.

- No, silly... Here - she handed him a spoon and showed him how to use it. As soon as he tasted it, his face lit up.

- So this is what eating feels like. It is, how does one say it, de-li-chioos.

- It's pronounced "delicious", and thank you - Vicky smiled at him.

The escape pod began emitting a soft but persistent rhythmic beep. Vicky almost dropped her bowl but managed to place it down next to herself before springing up and running inside. "Tommy" did the same and followed her.

Inside the escape pod was the source of the noise, a dark screen with a blinking red light and a button next to it. The High Vindicator pressed it and the screen blinked on. It displayed a muscular draenei in heavy golden armour and prominent sideburns - Vindicator Deuteros. He spoke with an authoritative, yet humble tone.

- High Vindicator Vicaaryna? This is Vindicator Deuteros of Division Five, Subdivision Forty-Two. We heard your distress call. A ship is en route to your location. And... Might I ask... Who is that next to you?

"Tommy" tilted his head curiously.

- He's a... new friend. The only other survivor of the crash.

- My condolences, High Vindicator. You must surely be in dire pain - Deuteros closed his eyes tilted his head downwards.

- This is a war, Vindicator. People die. Dwelling on their death won't bring them back. The best we can do is to honor their sacrifice - Vicaaryna replied drily.

- You are indeed right, milady - Deuteros bowed his head. - And what of the intruder? Is it slain?

- Negative. Turns out, he has misplaced his anger, but he is not a threat, I can assure you. I will tell you in detail when you get here.

- High Vindicator, you don't mean to tell me- Is that him? A void-corrupted draenei? One of us? You need to get out of there, milady, your life is in danger!

- As I have *clearly* stated - she hissed through gritted teeth, while staring Deuteros down with an annoyed expression - he is not a threat. And no, he's a shapeshifter. We're standing by for your arrival, Vindicator. Vicaaryna, out.

- Wait-

She turned off the communicator.

- Who was that? - "Tommy" turned to the paladin.

- The guy who's getting us off the planet I reckon... He doesn't understand you yet, give him some time.

- I hope he doesn't mind dying.

Vicaaryna slowly turned towards him.

- Don't kill our ticket off this rock. Please, try to control yourself and swallow your pride.

- ...fine - he sighed.

The two went out to finish their soup. As soon as the bowls were empty, a prominent hum began filling the relative silence of the desert planet, first softly, then increasingly loudly, reverberating against the rocks. A huge draenei vessel, covered in golden-yellow crystals, breached the atmosphere and began landing. Vicky gestured for "Tommy" to stand back. The ship landed and lowered a bridge. Out of the bowels of the ship walked Vindicator Deuteros, surrounded by four armed Lightforged soldiers. They each drew their swords in unison and encircled Pe'phriem.

- Whatever you are, prepare to meet your maker. You murdered our men and women.

"Tommy" reverted into his true form and got ready for a fight.

- EVERYONE STAND DOWN! - yelled Vicaaryna, standing on top of a high rock. - Vindicator, I told you, he is not a threat.

She hopped off the rock and walked up to Deuteros.

- Leave him alone. You hear me?

Deuteros sighed.

- Stand down, men.

The soldiers lowered their swords. Vicky walked to "Tommy" and caressed his back.

- There... It's alright.

Pe'phriem turned back into his draenei form. The High Vindicator then turned to the Vindicator.

- I know what he did but he had no idea who we are. We have a common enemy, he only has a vendetta against the Burning Legion; they ravaged his planet as well. He might even prove to be a powerful ally.

Deuteros shook his head.

- I will not side with void filth.

- You'd do best to watch your mouth, Vindicator. You do not know him as I do. He is just misunderstood, but he means no harm.

Deuteros laughed.

- If I didn't know better, I would think you have feelings for this... Thing, High Vindicator.

- I-  Just... Give him a chance. I'm taking full responsibility for his actions, you can tell that to the higher-ups.

- High Vindicator, you can't just-

- That is an order.

- ...yes milady.

After Vicaaryna walked onto the ship, Deuteros gestured for his men to keep an eye on Pe'phriem and gave him a spiteful stare as he walked past him.

He led her and her unlikely companion down a hall and gestured towards a door.

- This will be your cabin. I am aware that it's neither spacious, nor well-equipped enough for someone of your rank, but-

- It will do perfectly, Deuteros - she said sharply, seeking to converse with the Vindicator as little as possible.

- Understood, High Vindicator. What will you have us do with this... Thing?

Vicaaryna turned to the Vindicator with visible anger in her eyes.

- I believe I have already made it *abundantly clear*, he is with me, I am taking full responsibility for his actions and he is coming with me to Azeroth. And you, Deuteros, will stay out of it.

- High Vindicator, with all due respect-

- I am not going to repeat myself. Set the course for Azeroth. We have a war to win.

- A- at your command milady.

As the Vindicator walked off, Vicaaryna slowly walked over to "Tommy", who was looking out the window, gazing at the stars passing by.

- Well, this is much more, how does one say it? *Come-four-table* than drifting through space.

- I can't even imagine what you had to endure, how long were you even out there? - she shook her head.

- I have no idea, time passes differently to how it did at home. It felt like no time at all and an eternity at the same time. An eternity... Vicky! Will eternity pass us by just like this? Will I not be able to spend time with you? Will my love for you be unfulfilled? Will - his rambling was cut short by the paladin's finger on his lips.

- Shhh... - she whispered softly - I didn't fully show you what a kiss is.

- Well, could you- - "Tommy" said, his heart beating in his throat, but he couldn't finish his sentence. Vicky held his face between her firm, yet gentle palms and slowly and awkwardly kissed him on the lips. "Tommy" instinctively closed his eyes but opened them in surprise when he felt Vicaaryna's tongue lick his. He clumsily returned the tongue movement and closed his eyes again. Vicaaryna slowly pulled away and opened her eyes, blushing deeply.

- N-now that's a p-proper kiss... - she muttered.

- Could you... do it again? - said Pe'phriem as his pupils dilated.

- I- I think - Vicky tilted her head down, flustered, shaking from the adrenaline. She looked back up once more, but her embarrassment got the best of her.

"Tommy" sheepishly put his palm on Vicaaryna's cheek, lifting her face as he leaned closer, placing his lips on the draenei's, closing his eyes. This time, with more bravery, he pushed his tongue into Vicky's mouth. She kissed back, moving her body all the way to his.

Pe'phriem felt like "*the terromoths*" moved in his stomach again. Without a second thought, he instinctively placed his other hand on Vicky's waist.

The paladin's eyes opened wide as she broke the kiss.

- Now what do you think you're doing? - Vicaaryna said, her voice full of anger - or surprise - mixed with embarrassment.

- I just - said Pe'phriem, taken aback - I don't know, I apologize... I have a question, what does it mean when-

- NO. No questions for a while - Vicky sat down on the only bed in the room, seemingly lost in her thoughts. When she looked up, "Tommy" - as always - was staring at her.

- Do you ever blink? - the paladin asked mockingly, as she raised an eyebrow.

Seeing the puzzled look on his face, she let the question go.

- Forget it. I think it'd be better if you'd sleep in my room, I have a feeling Deuteros may not be fond of you.

- Oh, that person... - he seethed. Vicky felt the room filling with almost tangible malice, radiating from Pe'phriem the same way it did when she first saw him. The draenei quickly stood up, once again feeling the fear she felt.

- What does he want from me? What do the others want to do with me? - the being's voice sounded sinister and full of hatred, his pupils narrowing. As shadows slowly started appearing from Pe'phriem's body, covering the floor and the walls like vines, he turned towards the door and put his hand on the pressure lock handle.

- Tommy, don't - Vicaaryna took a quick step to reach his shoulder despite her fears. To the paladin's surprise "Tommy" didn't move an inch.

- I won't let them hurt you... But I won't let you kill more people either - she said. her voice shaking.

Vicky's words made him snap back to reality, turning away from the door as the shadows disappeared. He looked back at the girl as he slowly reached for her hand.

- Do you promise? - "Tommy" asked, first looking at Vicky, then at the ground.

- I promise - she said, a faint smile crossing her face - Let's go to sleep. Azeroth isn't that far from here, granted that they use warp speed.

- How can you tell the stars apart?

- I used to look at them a lot when I was little - said Vicaaryna, looking into the abyss with a dreamy look on her face.

The draenei laid down on the silken bed sleepily. She almost dozed off but felt like something... Someone was missing. Vicky turned over to see where "Tommy" was, only to see him curled up on the ground like a cat. She got up and nudged his shoulder.

- What are you doing there, sweetie? - she asked sleepily.

"Tommy" opened his eyes.

- You got upset when I was close to you after the kiss thing so... I thought-

- I-it's not like that - Vicky said blushing deeply.

- Then explain to me...

- Let's just go to sleep now - she turned back towards the bed, only to see "Tommy" already laying there - Didn't I tell you something about this? - she said, crossing her arms.

- You asked me not to scare you - he smiled.

- Ugh... Fine - said Vicky with mock anger in her voice, laying down near Pe'phriem. His growing smile made Vicky blush. She turned around, facing away from "Tommy". Pe'phriem hugged her from behind. Vicaaryna covered her face with her palms, feeling "*the terromoths*" in her stomach awaken.

- Your heart is beating so fast Vicky - he said, burying his face in her hair.

- Tommy... Do you want to tell me something?

- I- you said no questions last time when I-I think this happened if you mean that-

- A- Okay then you know what I'm talking about - Vicky said, blushing even more than before.

- So will you tell-

- Maybe some other time... Just don't do anything weird. Or... Actually, well... - she mumbled.

- What does "weird" mean?

- Good night - she snapped at him.

- Sleep well, Vicky... - "Tommy" buried his face deeper into Vicaaryna's hair, hugging her tighter as they both fell asleep.

- I'm sorry, what was your name again, uh... Vicaaryna, yes. You are not fit to be a member of the Army - a middle-aged draenei woman said, shaking her head.

- What?! Why? - she stomped, her face blue from anger.

The woman was unshaken. She picked up a holo-note from the table in front of her and began flicking through the pages.

- Let us see. Being absent from most, if not all lessons, not showing up for sparring class, failing the pilot exam, exhibiting unacceptable behaviour towards classmates-

- Hey! They started it, okay? - Vicaaryna yelled, crossing her arms.

The woman stared coldly at her, pausing for a moment, then continued.

-...sleeping in class, disrespecting a superior-

- Alright, fine, I'll leave. Ugh - the cadet said, storming out of the hall. - What a bitch...

She was stopped by a guard on her way out.

- Cadet Vicaaryna? - he asked respectfully.

- Not anymore. Just Vicaaryna - she said darkly.

- Urgent update from the headmaster - he said as he handed her an ID-protected holo-note and bowed.

Vicaaryna took the note in her hands with a puzzled expression. As soon as she did, the screen unlocked and revealed a congratulatory message, informing her that she is now a High Vindicator in the Fifty-First Sector Army, and she starts next week.

- I- what? - she asked, but the guard was already gone. - Eh, I guess I shouldn't complain. Time to rub it in that stuck-up teacher's face - she said as she skipped back towards the gates.

### Chapter 3: Azeroth

The two awoke to the sound of an automated voice.

"Now landing on... Azeroth. Breaching atmosphere in T minus 10... 9... 8..."

"Tommy" stretched his arms, yawned sleepily and embraced his paladin with a smile.

"5... 4..."

The ship began shaking violently. He pulled Vicky closer for safety.

"2... 1. Scheduled landing: 5 minutes from now. Destination: Elwynn Forest, Eastern Kingdoms."

- Mmmhhh... Vicky... I feel something about this planet... We are not alone... - "Tommy" mumbled half-asleep.

- Oh you silly little thing, of course we are not, this is a densely populated planet - she shook her head with a smile.

- FOUR GODS ONCE ROAMED THIS PLANET. ONE REMAINS. THE OTHERS - SPAWN OF OUR ENEMIES. WE ARE THE GOD OF CREATION, OUTCAST, EXILED FROM THE VOID FOR WE ARE WEAK IN THE EYES OF THE OTHERS. WE ARE NOT VYING FOR CONQUEST, BUT INVENTION - CREATION - GENESIS - "Tommy" opened his eyes wide and spoke in his original voice.

- T-Tommy? - the paladin sat up with a frightened expression. - What did I tell you about scaring me?

- ERHAND, BROTHER... YOU'RE HERE AS WELL... FATE HAS BROUGHT US TOGETHER. YOUR JOURNEY HAS LED YOU HERE- he continued.

- Your... Brother? - she asked, becoming increasingly puzzled.

"Tommy" snapped out of his trance.

- Mh? Oh yes, the other one I was talking about.

- He's here as well? And what about the 'four gods'? Are there more like you?

- It was a cloudy vision, I am unclear what it means but there are - or were - Old Gods here, and Ys'thriss feels them. Ys'thriss has no love for the others, nor their spawn, for they seek destruction, they seek to consume and conquer. Ys'thriss just wants to create and learn.

- That is... Very cute of him.

- Let's be careful on this planet. There might me more than demons after us - well, after me - here.

- I won't let you get hurt, sweetie - Vicaaryna pinched his cheek and squished his face between her hands.

- Like I need your help... - "Tommy" mockingly rolled his eyes. Their gazes met and they both broke out laughing, then embraced one last time before getting out of bed.

"Attention: We are experiencing a slight delay, as there is no suitable place for the ship to land."

The paladin opened a window. The ship was hovering over a dense forest.

- Of course they cannot land it. This is a custom-made attack frigate, the rear of this ship is massive, they need at least-

- So it was modeled after you? - "Tommy" interjected under his breath.

- III BEG YOUR PARDON? - Vicaaryna spun around.

- Hm? Did you hear something? I didn't say a thing - "Tommy" smiled slyly.

Vicky put her hands on her hips and tilted her head.

- I'll deal with your... - she walked up to "Tommy" and flicked her index finger at his forehead - ...insolence later.

She turned on the communicator in the cabin.

- This is Vicaaryna. Try to find a larger open area. The map here shows a large field to the southwest - she suggested.

After a brief pause, the automated voice spoke again.

"Rerouting complete. New destination: Westfall, Eastern Kingdoms."

The High Vindicator leaned away from the communicator and grinned victoriously at "Tommy".

- I knew it. These guys don't know their left from their right. Who even let them drive a spaceship without help? - she shook her head.

"Landing in T minus 10..."

- Get ready, we're almost there - she said.

"7... 6..."

"Tommy" got up and made his way to the door with the paladin.

"4... 3..."

Pe'phriem forgot the lights on, Vicky sighed, went back and turned them off.

"1. Welcome to: Azeroth."

The bridge opened and the two walked out into the blinding sunlight. Around them was endless farmlands, half-ruined sheds and confused hobos and farmers.

- See, I told ya! The UFOs, Joseph! They're the ones taking me sheep! - said one wide-eyed farmer to the other. The one being talked to, apparently named Joseph, looked away, groaned and waved his hand dismissively at the speaker.

Deuteros stepped outside the ship.

- Greetings, Azerothians! We come in peace! - he exclaimed, spreading his arms as if trying to embrace the world.

Vicky buried her face in both of her palms.

- Naaru give me patience, for if you give me strength, I'll kill him... - she said under her breath. - Alright. Let me handle this - she said, pushing the Vindicator aside. - I wish to talk to your leader.

A hobo pointed towards Elwynn Forest with a sour expression, without saying a word. The two began walking towards the path leading there, but Deuteros stopped them.

- Wait! High Vindicator! If you ever need my help with anything, for example, eradicating a void creature... - he grinned - Feel free to contact me.

Vicaaryna slowly turned around to face him.

- I will not. Light be with you, Vindicator.

Deuteros' expression darkened and he reentered his ship without saying a word. As soon as Vicaaryna and Pe'phriem reached the end of the bridge connecting Westfall to Elwynn Forest, they heard an authoritative voice from the left.

- Halt! Identify yourself at once!

A soldier in silver armour rode towards them aback a mottled palomino, the blue plume on his helmet swaying in the breeze.

- In regards to the recent events, a stricter security measure has been put in place. I have orders from King Wrynn himself to document everyone passing through this checkpoint, and filter out any potential Legion conspirators. This will only take a moment.

He got off his horse and slowly walked towards the paladin and her odd companion, and took out a pen and a stack of papers from his bag.

- State your name and purpose of your visit.

- I am High Vindicator Vicaaryna of the Army of the Light, leader of 16th Division of the 51st Sector Army and former captain of the famed vessel, *Perenaar* - she introduced herself, putting one hand on her hip.

The pen snapped in the guard's hand.

- My apologies milady - he bowed. - It is an honor to meet a member of the prestigious Army of the Light. And the gentleman?

"Tommy" cleared his throat. Vicky prepared for the worst.

- I am Pe'phriem, Bringer of the End, the Legion's Bane, and the person she might have feelings for - he pointed at the High Vindicator. She held up a finger, took a breath and opened her mouth but no words came out. She blushed deeply and wished she was able to turn invisible.

- ...riiight. Anyways, you seem like an agreeable man who despises the Legion as well. I take it you're here to join the fight, aren't you?

- Yes, sir - said the paladin. "Tommy" nodded vigorously.

- Go right ahead, I'll lend you both horses until Goldshire.

He led out two horses from the nearby stable, one brown and one grey. He handed their reins to each of them. Vicaaryna got on with relative ease, but "Tommy" struggled. Vicky got an idea.

- Sweetie, see that thing there? - she pointed at a stray cat that just woke up from its morning nap, walked out the stable and was now stretching its claws beside the footpath - Could you turn into one?

Pe'phriem stared at the cat intently, then closed his eyes, and he himself transformed into a pitch-black tomcat.

- Good kitty - Vicaaryna said smirking, then picked him up by the neck and placed him in front of herself.

- Fascinating... - the guard muttered, clearly awestruck.

- So long, and thanks for the horse!

- Her name is Tempest. Take good care of her, she's a capricious little thing - the guard said with a smile.

"Tommy" attempted to speak but only a meow came out of his mouth, much to his surprise. The guard waved them goodbye.

- See? This is what a tomcat is. You haven't changed much, to be honest - Vicaaryna smiled. The "cat" rolled his eyes.

Vicaaryna spurred her horse. She got to Goldshire by nightfall. "Tommy" curled into a ball and fell asleep in Vicky's hands by the time they got there, so she had to get off the horse very carefully, without using her hands.

As the paladin managed to dismount, a hooded figure approached them.

- High Vindicator Vicaaryna? A certain "*benefactor*" who wishes to remain anonymous asked me to look for ya' - the visitor said. Judging by his accent - Vicky thought - he was born somewhere in Westfall. - He said he's arranged ya and yer *companion* there a temporary place of dwellin' near the loggin' camp. He apologizes if it ain't comfortable or cozy enough, but it was the best he could do on such a short notice.

- Huh? That's odd... - she said, glancing down at the sleeping Pe'phriem. - How does he know me? - she asked, but the hooded figure had already disappeared into the night.

- Well, it seems like we're going to the logging camp, Tommy - she said to the cat, but he was still sleeping soundly in her gentle arms. She pet his head, causing him to purr in his sleep.

Vicky decided they should spend the night in Goldshire. She booked a room in the tavern and settled in for the night. She laid down on the bed, exhausted, putting the still sleeping "Tommy" on her belly and falling asleep to his purring.

- Why doesn't the headmaster ever show his face? Who even *is* he? - Vicaaryna asked her teacher as they walked down the hall.

- There have been... Several rumours - he replied. - Some people say he's the descendant of some ancient warrior, a war hero, a retired veteran, and he doesn't want the extra attention... Others say he still fights to this day and is the same person as the equally mysterious leader of the Sixtieth Sector Army and he's protecting his position, but, uh... - he sighed with a smile as he stopped. - I've heard he's just an old goofball with a heart of gold, but he was hardened by battle, because yes, he does still fight in addition to being our headmaster.

- Why did he revoke my expulsion, and why did he send me that letter? What did he see in me? - the girl narrowed her eyes.

- Frankly, I haven't a clue. But if he personally confides in your abilities, who am I to hold you back? - the teacher shook his head with a smile. - Light bless you, *High Vindicator* Vicaaryna. May luck always favour you - he said, saluting her with respect.

- T-thank you... - she replied, returning the gesture.

As she began walking away, she started feeling something pressing down on her chest, gradually increasing in size and weight...

When the paladin awoke, she jumped at the sight of Pe'phriem, having turned into a new form - a void elf, with pale skin and short black hair, in his signature black and red clothing, apparently having learned what elves look like during his stay at the inn - in his sleep, but still laying on her.

- AH-

- WHAT- "Tommy" jolted awake terrified and jumped back instinctively, falling backwards and stumbling off the bed. - How did I get here... - he muttered.

- Good morning sweetie... - Vicky softly said, tucking the strands of her hair that fell forward from the jump behind her ear. - Get ready kitty, we need to get going. Oh, by the way, nice elf form. This fits you more to be honest - she said, smiling.

- Going? Where?

- Apparently I have a mysterious benefactor here.

- Erhand. It must be him! - Pe'phriem sat up. - What did he say?

- How can you be so sure?

- We are of the same soul, the same mind. We feel and know one another's thoughts - he said as he got up and sat down on the bed next to the paladin. - Did you meet him?

- I did not, he sent a messenger. Apparently he got us a place to live at the old logging camp east of here.

- A place to live? Where we can spend the rest of eternity together? - his eyes lit up. Vicky blushed.

- W-

- Vicky, I must know, do you also feel feelings? Do you also wish to do the spending of eternity with me? - his pupils dilated.

- I- Uh- I-

She looked at "Tommy" and couldn't help but smile.

- I do... - she muttered, blushing.

- Yay! - He squealed with joy and hugged her neck, leaning in for a kiss.

- Kitty, we don't have time for... This... - she couldn't resist. She locked her lips onto his and kissed him passionately, her hands caressing his back.

After she pulled away panting, she caressed Pe'phriem's face and smiled at him sweetly.

- Get ready kitty, our home awaits.

The paladin held his hand - a gesture he didn't understand at first but enjoyed immediately - as they walked down the stairs and out the main door.

Vicaaryna stopped dead in her track. Seven hooded figures - two humans, an orc, a dwarf, a night elf, a tauren and what seemed to be a high elf - were surrounding them. One of the humans, the same one Vicky saw the day before, seemingly their speaker, stepped forward and took off his hood, revealing his unnaturally pale complexion and white curls. He looked really young, but extremely tired; an untold sadness lurked behind his icy blue eyes. He spoke in a quiet, respectful voice.

- Welcome to Azeroth, High Vindicator. Welcome, Pe'phriem. I'm Uriel Derrich of the Watch. These here are my companions, Ashton, Thrunna, Baldr, Naana, Talrios, an'... Hekate - he smiled to himself a little at the last name. - We're the eyes and the shield of the One With Many Names. You may know him as Luciel, Asmodeus, Lord Ambrose, Long Blackpaw, or... Erhand.

"Tommy" straightened his back victoriously and stretched his arms towards Uriel, looking at the paladin.

- See? I told you - he closed his eyes and grinned, crossing his arms.

- What does your master want from us?

- He wants nuthin' more than to meet his long-lost brother... An' his sister-in-law - Uriel smiled knowingly.

- H-his what now!? - Vicaaryna blushed deeply.

- The wife, or, well, future wife of his brother - Uriel explained.

- I am fully aware of that it means but how do you kno- I mean where did you get that- I- - she buried her face in her hands.

"Tommy" tugged on her cape.

- What does "wife" mean? - he asked innocently.

- I'll tell you later... - she whispered defeatedly.

Thrunna broke the silence.

- What a drama queen... - she scoffed.

Uriel stepped on her foot and hushed her.

- You're talkin' about the boss' sister-in-law!

Thrunna groaned and rolled her eyes.

- CAN WE JUST- Ahem, can you take us to that logging camp now? - the High Vindicator asked with an anxious grin.

Uriel nodded silently and gestured for his group to mount up. Vicky mounted her grey horse, while "Tommy" turned into a cat and rolled into a ball on her saddle. They rode to the logging camp with Vicaaryna following closely behind the seven riders, in almost complete silence, only broken occasionally by the riders conversing amongst themselves and "Tommy" attempting to communicate with Vicky - unfortunately, she didn't speak cat, but found his meowing endearing nonetheless, rewarding him with pets each time he "spoke".

- Do we seriously have to babysit the boss' retarded little brother? - Thrunna groaned, reclining in the saddle of her wolf and pinching the bridge of her nose and rubbing her eyes in frustration.

- Ye do *not* want ta anger HIM, trust me lass... - Baldr silently answered, gripping his ram's reins firmly.

- What will he do, bore me to death with his stupid questions? - Thrunna snorted.

- I dunno man, the boss said he's pretty dangerous when angered... - Talrios shrugged, petting his saber behind its ear.

- He said Pe'phriem is able to reduce entire armies into a pile of ash in a matter of minutes... - Naana added, shivering in fear. Even her kodo shuddered.

- Daaamn, what would he do with someone who already *is* Ash? - Hekate said with mock fear in her voice, peeking at Ashton from under her pink locks. Her saber seemed to laugh along.

- That's... Simply not funny - Ashton replied, rolling his eyes and spurring his horse in a vain attempt to get further away from Hekate's mockery.

- I liked it - Uriel said quietly.

- The totally unbiased jury, ladies and gentlemen... - Ashton shook his head.

- Aight, silence everyone. We're here - Uriel said.

Vicaaryna got off her horse, "Tommy" turned into his elf form. It was late afternoon, the sun was almost ready to set.

- Thank you all. I promise to one day repay the favour - the paladin smiled.

- We're just doin' our duty, ma'am - Uriel humbly bowed his head. - May we meet again soon. Farewell.

They each said their farewells and left to report back to Erhand, leaving the couple on their own in the last rays of the dying sun.

The two looked at each other then the sizeable house in front of them. Vicky looked around to see if there was anyone else there, but it seemed like nobody was around. She took the keys Uriel gave her earlier and opened the door, signaling "Tommy" to enter.

- Females first - he said, visibly straining himself to remember the exact words he's heard a while ago. - I've learned at the inn that humans let the female specimen in first.

The paladin chuckled but was flustered by the gesture.

- Thank you, you're sweet - Vicky said as she went in.

Pe'phriem followed right after her, closing the door behind him.

After inspecting the whole house, they both sat down in the kitchen.

- Would you like to sleep or... I saw a lake not so far from the house, we could take a look at it - said the draenei.

- What is a lake? - asked "Tommy" with curiosity in his voice.

Vicky mockingly rolled her eyes, smiling.

- It's a lot of water in a large pit - she summarised the concept with a smile.

- Let's go then - his eyes lit up from excitement. He suddenly jumped up from the chair, hitting his head on the chandelier. - Ow...

- Be more careful, sweetie - Vicaaryna stood up and pet his head softly, holding his face in her other hand. She looked into his eyes only to see him staring back with dilated pupils. Vicky removed her hand from "Tommy's" head, placing it on his shoulder as she inched closer to his lips. She felt her pulse get almost unbearably high when Pe'phriem closed his eyes and they both leaned closer to one another, resulting in a passionate kiss. Pe'phriem placed his hand on the paladin's waist, moving his body all the way to hers. This time Vicky didn't snap at him, instead she returned the movement.

"Tommy" placed his other hand on Vicky's back, clinging to her body and keeping it close to his. He instinctively pushed her gently but firmly to the nearby wall, resulting in a picture frame hitting the ground. The paladin broke the kiss and softly pushed Pe'phriem back, panting heavily.

- Uh... I think it'll get dark if we don't go... Now - she said between gasps, blushing deeply.

- I really want to see this... Lake as well, but... It was so good, I want more - Pe'phriem replied, his face as red as his elf form could get.

- We can continue at night - she purred into his ear, sliding her hand down from his shoulder and onto his chest. She walked to the door looking back at him, signaling to follow, smiling suggestively.

"Tommy" just looked at her flustered, unmoving.

Vicky stepped closer to him, waving her hand in front of his face.

- You good? Did you learn to sleep standing, with your eyes open?

Pe'phriem snapped out of his daze and shook his head.

- I- I am awake just... I actually can't explain - he said, still blushing.

The draenei giggled then shook her head knowingly, reaching for "Tommy's" hand and escorting him out the door.

- What's so funny?

- Nothing... You'll know one day - Vicky replied, still giggling.

- You always say that - he said with mock sulking in his voice.

A short walk away to the left of the house was a ring-shaped lake with an island in the middle of it. The pair walked towards their destination down a path that weaved through deciduous trees.

The sky was clear over Stone Cairn Lake, the moonshine glimmering off of the Heroes' Vigil monument. As the pair reached the lake, Vicaaryna sat down by the outer bank and tapped the grass. Pe'phriem plopped down next to her.

- Lovely evening, is it not? - she smiled - Not a cloud in sight.

- Yes, it... Listen, I meant not to upset you... - Pe'phriem laid back.

- Huh? - the paladin turned to him with genuine surprise.

- Everything happened so quickly, I attacked you, I broke your *sheep*, made that *Doot* person angry at you, lost my purpose, gained a new one and I'm just being a *bird den* in general... - he said in a saddened voice.

Vicky didn't know whether to correct the endearing mistakes Pe'phriem made during his grand speech, feel sorry for him or just hush him and kiss him. She eventually chose the last option, leaning over the laying elf and planting a soft kiss on his lips.

- Tommy, sweetie, you're not a burden. I would give up everything to be with you - she smiled gently at him. - There is nothing in this world or any other that could keep us apart. Come, let's go for a swim.

- What's a swim?

### Chapter 4: The Exarch Cometh

The sun was shining brightly above Goldshire as "Tommy" and Vicky walked into the inn together. At the counter, Vicaaryna ordered a glass of wine. "Tommy" struggled to understand the concept of alcohol and eventually gave up, ordering the same. That's when they heard a familiar voice.

- That is right, and I vanquished that monster with a single swipe! - Deuteros said to his men, laughing loudly and taking a huge swig from his tankard of alcohol. - Ah, High Vindicator! - he said, noticing the two. - Come join us! Oh... That thing is still with you, eh? I have news for you. Please, do accompany me to the back room. Alone.

Vicaaryna rolled her eyes.

- On second thought, leave the bottle -she told the bartender - I'll be there in a moment, Soldier.

She downed the entire bottle in one gulp, then looked at Pe'phriem's shocked expression.

- What? That's the only way I can stand him... - she smiled anxiously. Her gaze wandered to the glass in his hands. He offered it to her without saying a word.

After drinking his wine as well, leaving a generous tip for the bartender and instructing "Tommy" to hide, she walked into the back room.

At a nearby table, an elf poked her companion, seemingly a paladin in crimson red armour.

- That's my uncle... - she whispered.

- You have an uncle? - the paladin's eyes widened.

- Keep an eye on that draenei for me sweetheart, he's... Suspicious.

- Will do darling - the paladin nodded, his black hair sligthly swaying with the motion.

The High Vindicator peeked her head into the back room, almost jumping from the sight of Deuteros' wide grin.

- Make it brief, Soldier - Vicaaryna said coldly while walking into the room.

- Listen High Vindicator, I know you're a compassionate, caring, merciful... - he said while eyeing her all over. - Mmm... - he mumbled, taking a sip of his drink.

- Cut to the chase - she said drily.

- Yessir. You do not have to keep up appearances for void filth. I understand that you are a master diplomat and good at manipulation, but this is a lesser lifeform. Why are you even tolerating him? Or do you genuinely believe he doesn't have any ulterior motives? He is a servant of the Old Gods, they all-

- Hold it. Do you seriously think I am doing what I am doing to... Keep up appearances? Or trying to manipulate him? I meant what I said, Deuteros. Every word of it - Vicaaryna said, narrowing her eyes.

- All I am implying is that our duty includes ridding the universe of these things as well. You're a High Vindicator of the Army of the Light, you shouldn't- - he paused, looking to his side.

- What is it?

- I saw movement, but it was nothing but a cat. Anyways. You shouldn't let your guard down. How can you tell-

- Now listen and listen well, Vindicator, for I will only say this once more - Vicaaryna was getting remarkably angry. - I have full confidence that this one is different.

Deuteros shook his head.

- High Vindicator, you know where blind trust can lead.

She sighed.

- You won't ever understand. You have as much empathy and understanding as... Say, that table over there - she rubbed her eyes. - Is this all you called me here for? To waste my time?

- No, there is... More - he closed his eyes, his mouth curled into a smile. - You see, since there is now a void being loose on Azeroth, and, with all due respect, you are not exactly doing what should be done in such a scenario, I... Took the liberty to notify Exarch Caliestes and the Extermination Squadron. They are on their way here.

- YOU DID WHAT?! - Vicaaryna grabbed the Vindicator by the collar of his armour. - Tell them that the issue is dealt with and that they should turn back immediately. That is an order.

- Unfortunately, "High Vindicator" - Deuteros' expression grew almost malicious - after I notified them about your... Heh... Insubordination, they kindly asked me to relay the following information to you. Until further notice, you are temporarily relieved from your services as a High Vindicator of the Lightforged Army and demoted all the way down to the rank of Marine. Which means two things. One, that I was only being nice by calling you that, and two, I will no longer take orders from you. But you will obey my... Every... Word... - he grinned and held her by the shoulder. He pushed her to the wall and slid his hand down her waist, then began leaning towards her in an attempt to kiss her. Vicaaryna looked away, closed her eyes and gritted her teeth.

The black cat who previously snuck into the room and sat on the table suddenly turned back into Pe'phriem's true form. He grabbed the Vindicator by the throat and slammed him against the opposite wall.

- You have exactly one second to say your last words - he hissed at the draenei, tightening his grip.

- Tommy, no... Don't, please... Sweetie... - Vicaaryna pleaded quietly. That last word seemingly did the trick, his pupils dilated as he let go and turned into his elf form. Deuteros's body slammed onto the ground. He held his throat, coughing. As soon as he caught his breath, he cracked up laughing.

- "Tommy"? You gave your little kitty a nickname? How touching - he snickered maliciously, then got onto his feet and pointed at Pe'phriem. - Kill it. Now. That is an order.

Vicaaryna drew her sword and pointed it at the Vindicator instead. He grinned.

- Would you really cross that threshold? - Deuteros spread his arms.

The former High Vindicator let out a fierce battlecry and slammed the point of her sword... Into the wall. Deuteros dodged the strike and was now howling with laughter.

- Had too much to drink, Marine?

- Thank the Light I am drunk... I never miss - she said through gritted teeth.

- That's cute - Deuteros said with mock adoration. His voice suddenly got cold. - Get out of my sight and do not let me see you until you have the guts to finish the job. And if I were you, I would do it before the Exarch gets here. She won't be this merciful - he added.

- I'll kill her too if I have to...

Deuteros wordlessly turned his back on Vicaaryna and walked out the door, back to his men who greeted him with raised glasses and cheers.

- That... ASSHOLE - Vicky slammed her fist into a cupboard and began gently sobbing. "Tommy" ran up to her and hugged her.

- Vicky, sweetie, what is wrong? What is an Exarch, who are the Extermination Squadron and what happened? - he asked, his eyes widening with empathy.

- What happened is that we're in deep shit, both of us... - Vicky took a deep breath as she hugged back. - We need to hide. Now.

She walked up to the wall and grabbed hold of her sword, pulling it loose from the crack she made.

- Let's go... - she wiped off her tears.

The bartender walked into the back room.

- Is everything alright? I've heard strange noises.

- Everything is... Fine... - Vicky said, her head hanging low.

The man lowered his voice.

- That draenei... He and his men just left. If you're hiding from him, it is safe to come out now. Also, someone is looking for you two.

- Looking for us? Who? - Vicky suddenly lifted her head.

- Come.

The bartender walked into the main hall of the inn, Vicky and "Tommy" following closely behind.

The elf from earlier was waving at them. They walked up to the table.

- Hi. You don't know me yet, but I'm your niece. Well, in a way - she said, smiling knowingly. Her eyes had the same narrow pupils as Pe'phriem's. Glancing over to the paladin, so did his. Vicky tilted her head. She looked at the elf, then at Pe'phriem.

- Erhand's...

- His daughter, yes. And this is my husband.

- Yes, that's me - the paladin smiled warmly at them. - I'm Jaime, and the lovely lady is Eserill.

- I am High Vi- - Vicky sighed. - Marine... - she rolled her eyes. - Marine Vicaaryna and this is Tommy. Or Pe'phriem. He listens to both.

- I'll get to the point - Eserill said. - Who was that dick?

- My superior, apparently... He called  the fleet leader here to kill him because apparently that's what I was supposed to do, but couldn't, because I... Because I... - she blushed.

- Because you love him, we get it - Eserill's lips curled into a smile. - We won't let either of you get hurt, I swear it. You're part of my family.

- We're here for you folks - Jaime smiled reassuringly.

Vicaaryna's face lit up.

- You have no idea how grateful I am. Let us plan ahead, then.

- The zeroth step in any battle is knowing your enemy - Eserill said. - Who exactly are we up against?

- Exarch Caliestes and the Extermination Squadron. She is one of the members of the Council and her division specialises in "solving" Void-related "problems".

- Apology sweetheart, what is it you were doing with your fingers just now? - "Tommy" asked, his pupils dilating.

- Oh, you must know anything, mustn't you - she smiled at him and poked his nose with hers. - It's called an "air quote", one uses them to signify irony.

- What is irony? - he tried to ask, but was interrupted by Eserill's next question.

- But what is *she* like? As a person. Any weaknesses, insecurities, anything we could exploit? - she inquired.

- I do not know her in person, but... I have heard she's a great tactician.

- That doesn't help at all... - Eserill put her elbows on the table and rested her head on her palms. - So she's like... Cold, logical, calculated - she said, gesturing with her finger. - That's hard to exploit.

- Do you think this conflict could end without bloodshed? - Jaime interjected. - We're on the same side, after all, even if they don't know yet.

- Shut up, Tristan - Eserill poked Jaime in the side mockingly. He laughed.

- If the question was serious... - Vicaaryna said. - I want one specific one of them to die.

- I can see why... - Jaime leaned back in his seat. - Why does that twat even want to kill him? Does he not know that Iss... Uss..

- It's pronounced "Yass-triss" sweetheart. Or "Ees-triss", both are acceptable. What he was trying to say is that Ys'thriss is completely harmless, benevolent even. An outlier amongst Void lords, the only one I know of that is capable of compassion and empathy. The *others* find him weak and some of their minions, like the Azerothian Old Gods even antagonise with him. I've witnessed it firsthand - Eserill brushed her white hair out of her face, revealing a star-shaped purple scar running across the bridge of her nose.

- He probably does not know... Wait, that's right! I need to notify the Exarch right away! There *is* a way to stop this nonsense without bloodshed! Thank you, thank you both!

Vicaaryna gathered her belongings - including a now-feline "Tommy" whom she shoved under her arm, to which he reacted to with a frightened meow - and ran out of the inn.

Eserill looked at Jaime.

- You got your boring peaceful solution, you happy? - she asked with mock annoyance in her voice.

- I still hope we can kill that pompous arse to be honest - Jaime shook his head.

- So I'm not the only one who's creeped out by him.

- Nope, he screams stranger danger. Yeesh.

- Anyways... - Eserill's voice softened to a whisper as she leaned in to kiss Jaime on the lips.

Vicaaryna ran across the main square, straight to the gryphon handler.

- Quick, turn into one of those! - she gestured towards one of the gryphons while looking at "Tommy". He obliged; the handler almost dropped the glass he was drinking from.

Vicky got on the back of her brand new mount and instructed him to fly westwards, which he did after a few awkward wing flaps.

- I know this is new to you, but please do try to hurry... Our lives depend on it.

It was getting awfully late and the sun had set by the time they got to Deuteros' ship.

Vicky jumped off of "Tommy" and ran up to the ship, slamming her fist into the communicator next to the door.

- Let me in! I have a vital call I need to make!

The door slowly opened. A familiar face peeked out.

- Good evening, Soldier. What is it that ails you? - Deuteros said with a dishonest smile.

- Listen... Please let me use the interplanetary communicator. It is the only one nearby, and-

- That is no way to talk to a superior. Your behaviour will be repo-

Vicaaryna rolled her eyes and elbowed him in the stomach, running past him.

- Stop her! - Deuteros yelled to the guards, then turned to Pe'phriem.

- You only have days to live, filth. Savour them.

The High Vindicator ran all the way to the cockpit and turned on the communicator. A middle-aged draenei lady with spiky, silver hair appeared on screen.

- This is Exarch Caliestes of the Fifty-First Sector Army, how may I aid... You. Good evening. The Vindicator already went into vivid detail about your predicament and I can assure you that we will handle the situation.

- It's not that, please listen to me...

- Do not worry. I know, it has been tough on you, but we will kill that thing and end its manipulation over you.

- No, you misunderstand... He is not a threat...

- Oh, my poor child... He made you think that, didn't he... We will avenge you, sister.

- No... You don't get it...

- May the Naaru bless you, my sister in the Light.

The screen darkened.

- Wait! FUCK! - she slammed her fist into the dashboard. Guards surrounded the room, accompanied by their Vindicator.

- I'm going. That's all I wanted. Bye - she raised her hands as if she was signalling surrender and walked out the room. Deuteros looked on, grinning.

- You really are something, "High Vindicator". Risking your life for some... Worthless space junk.

Vicaaryna stopped dead in her track. She turned around and punched the Vindicator in the face so hard his nose started bleeding. Two guards began drawing their swords. Deuteros raised his hand.

- Let her go. I will punish her one day myself - he said, clutching his nose in one hand.

Vicky stepped out into the field, the door closing behind her. "Tommy", in his cat form, ran up to her, curled around her hoof and began purring. Her troubled expression melted into one of adoration.

- Where did you learn that? - she smiled at him.

Pe'phriem let out a series of meows. Realising Vicaaryna doesn't understand him, he turned into his elf form.

- I saw other cats doing such a thing to their humans to signal their affection - he said, his pupils dilating.

- You are so sweet... Listen. I couldn't talk to her, she seems entirely unresponsive. We need to hide.

- Vicky, I tried to tell you last night as well, but I am so sorry I have caused so many problems and even turned your own people against you, I never meant to-

- Ssshhh... It's alright darling. It is not your fault. Come. We have a long way to go.

- Not if we fly - he turned into a gryphon again.

- Are you sure?

He nodded and lowered his body for the captain to be able to climb on more easily.

- Alright then. Thank you. Now. To the logging camp, please.

They flew in complete silence, only the howling wind and the occasional flap of Pe'phriem's wings breaking it from time to time. Eventually, Vicky spoke up.

- I... I am sorry too. I have misplaced my trust. This Deuteros person is the worst example of our people.

"Tommy" landed and turned into his elf form.

- Ssshhh... All is right, sweetheart, the fault is not yours - he attempted to echo what the paladin had said earlier. She started chuckling, burying her face into her palm, her locks falling into her face. She hugged her love.

- I won't let them hurt you, my sweet Tommy. I swear on my life.

- You must be serious about it if you are betting the well-being of the universe's most precious thing on it - "Tommy" said, blushing.

Vicky tightened her embrace, tears began falling down her face.

- Let's go inside and sleep, alright? - she said after wiping her tears off. - It's been a rough day and tomorrow might be even worse.

"Tommy" nodded. They went to the bedroom hand in hand, laid on the bed and fell asleep almost immediately.

- Urgent message from High Command, High Vindicator! Our Sector Army is to be relocated to the Azeroth sector to aid the Forty-First and Forty-Second Sector Armies in their skirmish against the Legion! Intel also reports that the Forty-Second have recently lost their Exarch, leaving them leaderless and weak to attacks, and as such, we better hurry - a draenei messenger read his report hurriedly, standing at attention.

- Azeroth? Good. I was getting bored of protecting this barren rock - Vicaaryna replied coldly, looking out the window, staring at the desert planet of Kerision-616. - Nothing ever happens here...

A massive explosion shook the ship. The High Vindicator staggered with a gasp, but quickly regained her composure.

- What was that? - she asked with all the courage she could muster, trying to sound calm and collected.

- I shall look into it, milady - the messenger saluted and stormed off.

- Thank you... - Vicaaryna mumbled absently. - Finally something happens - she thought to herself, the blaring alarms painting her expression - a mix of shock, excitement, anticipation and dread - red like the light of a dying sun. It felt liberating to finally feel something, let alone so many emotions at once, but she composed herself and tried to look as neutral as possible. Speaking of feeling something, she began feeling an eerie, but oddly familiar presence right in front of her face...

Vicaaryna awoke to the sound of forest birds and two purple cat-like eyes staring at her, accompanied by a wide smile.

- Mmm... Good morning Tommy... You're awake already? Tommy? Since when are your eyes...

She looked to her side and saw Pe'phriem sleeping soundly next to her, then looked back and almost jumped back from Eserill's smiling face. Jaime stood at the door and let loose a huge yawn he could barely contain.

- Good morning, auntie. We came as soon as we could. Dad said your... "Kitty" telepathically told him you two are in trouble, so we came. Right, baby? - she looked at Jaime.

- Oh... Huh? Yeah... - he said sleepily.

- Auntie, what's wrong? - Eserill asked as she squatted down next to the bed.

- The Exarch is unreachable... It is as if there is a wall between what I am trying to tell her and her consciousness.

- Maybe we should wait it out - Jaime walked closer. - I've looked into the logs of the Army, and this Caliestes character is a so-called "void analyst", so I reckon she might know Ys'thriss has a heart... Well, figuratively speaking - Jaime shot a sympathetic glance at his sweetheart and caressed her face, running his thumb across her scar and closing his eyes with a frown that screamed "I wish I could have prevented this". He stretched his hand towards her, trying to help her stand up.

- The point is, she might understand what happened when she gets here. For once, he's right - Eserill agreed, clutching Jaime's hand in hers as she stood up.

- You think that, but I am not so sure... She seemed so... Dismissive.

- Have faith, Vicaaryna - Jaime said - I think she will understand. I imagine a member of the mighty Army of the Light would have plenty of-

- Faith? - she looked up - Do not mistake me for a blind zealot. I decided to get lightforged for power and nothing else. The Light is but a weapon, nothing more. One can only have faith in oneself.

Eserill and Jaime looked at one another.

- Nate? - they both asked one another in unison - Nate - they both replied at the same time.

- Who? - Vicaaryna tilted her head.

- You talk like the person who taught me how to wield the Light, that's all - Jaime smiled to himself. - I share your views on this.

- We need to go, there are other things that require our attention, but please contact us through dad if you need anything. Chronakai kristor, auntie - Eserill did the draenei salute.

Vicaaryna smiled.

- Dioniss aca, my niece - she said, returning the gesture.

As Eserill and Jaime left, Vicky laid back down onto the bed and looked at the ceiling, thinking about everything that happened to her in the last few days.

"Tommy" inched closer to the captain and put his arm around her.

- Tommy... - she said, in a mock scolding tone. - What if they're still here?

Suddenly, a loud, repeated noise could be heard. Pe'phriem instinctively clutched her harder. The noise came again, only heavier this time, and with a sense of real urgency. "Tommy" realised what the noise was. Someone was knocking on the door harshly. It surely was really urgent because whoever it was didn't seem to give up. Pe'phriem got dressed and went down to open the door. It was Deuteros.

- Sweetheart, it's that piece of shit who wants us dead! - he yelled up the stairs.

- I could kill you right now, you know that, right? Nobody would know - Deuteros replied coldly.

The paladin hurried downstairs.

- What do *you* want? - she flashed a piercing gaze at the Vindicator.

- I am simply here to notify you that the Exarch will be here momentarily. Your call last night really moved her, so she decided to abandon every other mission the Extermination Squadron is on right now and come here using the shortest available route. Good work, Soldier. I might even promote you after this garbage is taken care of. Don't get your hopes up though.

He let out a loud, almost evil-sounding laugh, then turned around and walked away.

- He's lucky I left my sword upstairs... - Vicky hissed through gritted teeth - Wait! How did you even know we're here? - she yelled at the Vindicator as he was leaving. Deuteros turned back.

- Spies. You are a dangerous traitor and a liability; it is not only a safety measure, but my duty as well as a member of the Army of the Light - he said, his tone even drier than usual. He spread his arms, as if waiting for more questions, then smiled and turned away once again. Vicky watched him disappear over the horizon.

- I want to kill him so badly - Vicky said bluntly after he was no longer visible.

- You could have told me earlier. He came alone, the idiot, I could have just... - Pe'phriem made gestures with his hand akin to a rope being tied around something - Then you... - he made a stabbing motion with his hand. Vicaaryna shook her head.

- We need to wait until the Exarch arrives. If we kill him now, there is no way I can prove your innocence - she sighed - Please be a gryphon one last time sweetheart, let us go... The only nearby place big enough for them to land is Westfall.

"Tommy" became a gryphon and the paladin mounted him. He flew as fast as he could.

- Slow down sweetheart... Let us enjoy what could be our last day, shall we? - Vicky hung her head. Pe'phriem looked up to her with deep sorrow in his eyes.

"Tommy" took her above the clouds, giving her an aerial view of the entire kingdom of Stormwind. She hugged his neck and began sobbing. It took them around three hours to get to Westfall, by that time Vicky had no energy left in her. As Pe'phriem landed near the *Legionbreaker*, she just flopped over and fell onto the ground, taking several minutes and Pe'phriem's help to get onto her feet. In front of her stood Exarch Caliestes, surrounded by sixteen elite draenei soldiers in purple-brimmed black armour - the Extermination Squadron. She should have saluted, stood at attention and given a detailed description of what had happened to her superior, but all she had the strength for was to meekly raise her arm as a greeting, then drop it back down almost immediately.

- Yes, greetings to you too, Soldier. Now. Where is that being? - Caliestes looked around. She must have enjoyed her job, because she looked more than eager.

- It is that thing! The elf! That used to be a gryphon! - Deuteros said excitedly, with more than just a spark of bloodlust in his eyes.

- A shapeshifter, huh? There is only one Old God, void entity, or anything of the sort for that matter that I know of, that this sort of behaviour is characteristic of.

- Yes that must be it, your highness, oh, your wisdom is beyond words! - the Vindicator was almost salivating at the thought of the impending execution.

- Ys'thriss, that is. A true outlier amongst Void lords, for he, along with his spawn is-

- The most dangerous and vile, yes, we must kill it now! Yes, YES!

- ...completely harmless unless provoked.

- Yes! Wait... What?

- And *furthermore*... - Caliestes paused briefly to give her subordinate an angry glare for interrupting her continuously - Despite being an agent of a cosmic force that is diametrically opposed to ours, having a common enemy - the Burning Legion, that is - as well as being the enemy of most Old Gods, makes pursuing its kind not only the least of our priorities, but a veritable act of idiocy - when she uttered that last word, she looked back at Deuteros meaningfully.

- Exarch... We need to... But... - Deuteros stumbled on his words.

Caliestes raised an eyebrow.

- You called us here for this. A non-threat.

- Exarch, I can explain... - Deuteros said, utterly humiliated.

- Get out of my sight, you oaf - she dismissed the Vindicator bluntly, then turned to Vicaaryna. - High Vindicator, I apologise for the misunderstanding, we should have listened. As compensation, you will of course regain your rank and reputation, and that incompetent fool of a Vindicator - she glanced back at Deuteros - will be immediately relieved from his services and ousted from the Army for slander and misinformation. If there is anything else you need, we will not be far. Chronakai kristor! May the Light be with you, Captain - Caliestes said as she turned around and slowly walked towards her ship.

- Oh! Before I forget.

She handed a holo-note to Vicaaryna.

- May the Naaru bless you - she said, smiling at her meaningfully.

- Exarch, you cannot do this to me! I have a reputation to uphold! - Deuteros fell to his knees before his former superior.

- Not anymore. May you see the error of your ways and no longer seek to deceive your people. Farewell, my brother in the Light. No longer must you wear the mantle of a Vindicator, for you are clearly unfit to carry such burden. No longer are you a member of the Army of the Light. Do whatever you wish to do with your life. Dioniss aca - Caliestes replied without even looking at him. She waved one last time to Vicaaryna - who sheepishly returned the gesture - before the door closed behind her with an audible hiss and her ship began humming louder and louder, eventually lifting into the air and disappearing over the horizon, leaving a devastated Deuteros and a puzzled Vicaaryna behind.

- Do not think that this is over! I will return! That thing *will* die, one way or another! It is an abomination, a crime against existence itself, a scar on the very fabric of the universe! I will have my revenge for this disgrace! That I swear! - Deuteros yelled as he turned his back on the two and walked back onto his ship. Except... The ship was no longer his. The door refused to open. He slowly turned around.

- Why wait... Nothing left to lose now - his eyes lit up with a sinister glow. He undid the straps holding his hammer onto his back and charged at Pe'phriem.

He looked at Vicaaryna, as if asking for permission.

She shook her head. "Tommy" rolled his eyes and blinked out of the way of the strike. Deuteros' hammer got stuck in the mud. Pe'phriem wrapped a set of tentacles around his waist, then threw the draenei at the *Legionbreaker* with all his might. He crashed through the crystalline structure and fell onto the dashboard, limp and unconscious.

"Tommy" gestured towards Elwynn Forest with his head, signalling that it's time for them to go before he wakes up. He turned into a gryphon once again, waited for Vicky to climb onto his back, then took off like a speeding bullet.

## Volume 2: United We Stand

### Chapter 1: Recruits

As soon as the two got back to Goldshire, Vicaaryna unlocked the holo-note. It contained an invitation to the Council of Exarchs, signed by Turalyon himself. Still puzzled, she pocketed the tablet and turned to Tommy.

- So... What now?

- I want to go back and kill him. I hate unfinished business.

- So do I but... We cannot just kill him, what would the Exarch say?

- Like she doesn't hate him...

- It is more complex than that, sweetie...

- We'll kill him later then.

- Urgent news, Exarch Vicaaryna! Exarch Caliestes sends her regards, and... This.

A young, nimble draenei ran up to the freshly-anointed Exarch and saluted her respectfully before handing her a small device.

Vicaaryna's mouth curled into a smile. She liked the respect her new rank was earning her.

- Chronakai kristor, soldier. State your name and rank.

- Messenger Mercurios, milady, Forty-Second Sector Army.

- Very well, messenger. You may leave. Light bless you.

The messenger bowed and saluted once again, before disappearing into the night.

- How did he get here so fast? - "Tommy" scratched his head. - And what is that... Thing?

- It's... A-ha, it's a handheld communicator! And it seems as though I have an incoming call - she said, surprised by the sudden escalation in events.

She pressed the button. It was Caliestes.

- Achal hecta, Exarch - she said with a smile.

- It's not exactly daytime here, but to you too, Exarch - Vicky replied with a tired smile.

- Oh you know how it is, you never know what time it is on other planets - she laughed. - Listen, as the new leader of the Forty-Second Sector Army, you are tasked with protecting Azeroth and the nearby systems, working in tandem with the Forty-First Sector Army. Now, there is something of utmost urgency you must deal with. A portal, leading to a Legion-controlled world has seemingly opened over Elwynn Forest. You are to assemble a team of those you think are up to the challenge and take the fight to them, annihilate their base and close the portal.

- Understood, I'm on my way. Vicaaryna out.

Caliestes nodded and ended the transmission.

- Tommy! Oh, don't tell me you are being a cat again...

Pe'phriem was sleeping soundly on a mailbox as a cat. Vicky walked up to him and poked his side.

- Wake up kitty, we are going to war.

He sprung up and turned into his elf form, still sitting on the mailbox that was now way too small to support him, causing him to fall off of it immediately.

- Where? - he raised his head and flashed an uncanny grin.

- Alright, promise me to never make that face again - she shivered as the elf got to his feet. - But to answer your question, we are going to Stormwind to recruit a team, so please be a dear and turn into something I can ride.

Pe'phriem raised his eyebrows at her and smirked slyly.

- No - Vicaaryna said sharply,

"Tommy" glanced into the forest for but a moment and turned into a pitch-black stag with burning red eyes.

- I- why.

Pe'phriem turned back into his elf form for a moment. - You said "be a *deer*" - he said, then promptly turned back.

Vicaaryna buried her face into her palm.

- We would be faster if you flew.

Pe'phriem grew wings.

- I- Huh. I think that will do.

She climbed onto his back and they took off.

- One thing though, if I were you, I would tone back the red eye thing, it's a bit... You don't want the kind of attention THAT will be drawing.

"Tommy" looked at her and shook his head. They landed in the main square in the Trade District. Pe'phriem turned into his elf form.

- The one thing I cannot change is my eye colour - he looked at Vicky with a gentle smile.

- Wow, I thought that was a mount! Turns out it's a druid! Who knew! - a gnome exclaimed.

- What's a druid? - "Tommy" whispered to his beloved.

- Pay no attention to her. She is below the stimulus threshold - Vicaaryna waved her hand.

- Excuse me? Judge me by my size, do you? I'm Ebby Twinklefizz, a master engineer and mech pilot - she exclaimed in a frustrated manner and straightened her back.

- Wait... - Pe'phriem looked closer. The gnome was pointing at her tabard, depicting a crimson-red flame in a pitch-black field. - Who is your master?

- My... Master? You mean my guild master? Lady Ambrose and Lord Sootleaf if you must know - she crossed her arms.

- Jackpot - Vicky smiled. - Take us to your base, please.

The gnome led them to the Dwarven District.

- Vicky, sweetheart, why is a child left unattended on the city streets? They could get hurt.

- A child. A CHILD. Who is this uncultured, ignorant, dumb-

- He is not from around here.

- Right. This way... - the gnome sighed defeatedly.

She pointed at an alleyway accessible through an inn.

- They're probably in there. I have some business to attend to, so just... Go ahead without me.

- Thank you, Ebby. Light be with you.

- Yeah, you too, or something... - she mumbled. - I swear, Essie has the weirdest friends...

The pair walked into the inn and out through the back door. Down the alley was a house adorned with banners depicting the same red flame in black field as the gnome's tabard.

Vicaaryna entered the house first, carefully peeking her head inside. She saw a table in the middle with chairs around it and people of various races and genders sitting around it. They turned their heads towards the doorway in unison. Before Vicky was able to get a good look at any of them, Eserill immediately hugged her.

- Auntie! You came! And you brought him too!

- Yes, we are on a mission - she smiled and hugged her niece back. - We need a group of able-bodied men and women to fight the Legion.

A blond-haired, frail young man immediately stood up, raised his hands into the air and walked out the room.

- You lost me at... "able-bodied"...

- Typical Tristan... - Eserill rolled her eyes. - Hey, come back, they might need a medic - she called out.

- Miladeh, if I might... - a dwarf woman stood up, seemingly extremely intoxicated. - I dunnae where ye're- hic! - going but ye have me ax- - she mumbled as she fell over.

- Yes, you should probably take her, she's one of our best fighters, regarding raw strength. At least when she's less drunk - Eserill chuckled. - Isn't that right, Béa?

The dwarf raised a thumb into the air while remaining laying face-down on the ground.

A jovial-looking draenei walked up to Vicky.

- You seem... Oddly familiar - he said, scratching his chin. - Anaya, dear, come here for a moment!

- WHO? - Vicaaryna's eyes widened. From the back room, a young draenei girl walked out, her armour was that of a seasoned warrior, the two enormous blades strapped to her back jingled as she walked forward. Vicaaryna's little sister. As soon as they recognised one another, they ran into each other's arms and embraced with tears in their eyes.

- Anaya! I... It's been millenia... Where have you been?

- It is a long story - she replied, smiling at her sister, burying her head into her shoulder. - I'll tell you one day - she closed her eyes for a moment as she let go. - But it was only, like, what, thirty years for me? Dad...Dad died though... I thought you should know... - she said as she hung her head.

- I figured he would have... Vicky replied sadly, then looked into her sister's eyes. - And there is no way I am taking you and risking losing you again... You! - she suddenly pointed at the male draenei. - You take good care of her while we are away or there is no telling what happens to you. - she said, her eyes sparking with anger and sisterly love. The man raised his hands and smiled.

- I believe she doesn't need my help - he laughed. - In fact, *she* saved *me* on more than one occasion.

Vicaaryna's expression softened as she exhaled through her nose. - Alright, who else? - she suddenly turned to the others.

- I volunteer - a thirty-something woman stood up from her chair, emerging from the shadows in the corner. Her long, black hair waved unnaturally around her head and her body was emitting an odd, black mist. As she got closer, her unmistakable cat-like pupil and red sclera made it clear that she was no longer fully human.

- Who... What are you? - Vicaaryna tilted her head at her. - Tommy, is she one of your kind?

Pe'phriem stretched his palm towards the woman and closed his eyes, attempting to read her.

- No... And yes. She wields Ys'thriss' power but she was not *borne of it*, nor is her mind a part of the collective... Her name is Ma-

- My former name is none of your business. Yes, I was once called Mavis and you may call me by that name. But I am no longer anybody. And I do not fear death anymore - the woman suddenly unsheathed both of her daggers, flipped them around in her hands and caught them by the blade, offering their hilts to Vicaaryna.

- My blades are yours, Exarch - she forced a weak smile onto her face.

Vicky looked at Eserill, only to notice her niece staring back at her, smiling.

- Yes, it's my doing. She's my third attempt, and the second successful one. Jaime was the first one who... Survived.

- That's really reassuring, sweetheart, lovely, thank you - Jaime laughed with mock anxiety in his voice. Eserill caressed his face.

- Aaanyways, anyone else? - the draenei looked around, visibly uncomfortable at the thought of what voidforging must feel like.

The same blond boy from earlier peeked his head out from behind the doorframe, alongside his raised palm. Vicaaryna gave him a reassuring smile.

- Tristan, right? And you're a healer?

- Yes milady - he nodded sharply.

- Good. We need all the help we can get. Speaking of all the help we can get... Tommy, darling, would you mind if we... Listen, we really need every capable person, and...

- You want to bring *the Doot* too? - "Tommy" asked with a disappointed tone in his voice.

- We need a meatshield, do we not? And that person is the dictionary definition of "expendable".

- That's actually a great idea, that way you can get rid of him *and* use him! - Eserill laughed.

- Aw, I wanted to kill him - Jaime joined in.

- Who is... "*The Doot*"? - Tristan asked in a frightened voice.

Pe'phriem turned to him, putting his hand on Tristan's shoulder.

- Do not do the worrying, boy, he is but a hole of ass - he said with as serious a voice as possible.

- I- Oh. I think I understand - Tristan said, pushing his hand against his mouth, suppressing a laugh.

- Where to next? - Vicaaryna turned to her niece.

- The Cathedral Square. I had someone ask an old friend to rally his team as well - Eserill replied, twirling the wine around in her chalice.

- Thank you for everything. Let us go. Can you stand, Béa? - she leaned closer to the dwarf. No reply.

- BÉA - Eserill yelled at the top of her lungs. The warrior immediately jumped to her feet and dusted herself off.

- Yezz milady - she replied before hiccuping loudly.

- You agreed to go with my aunt to kill demons. Do you understand?

- Did ye say killing? Demons! Count me in, let's bloody do it! - Béa's blood alcohol level immediately dropped to a manageable level.

- You really have a talent for leadership. I am proud of you - Vicky smiled at Eserill. She returned it. - Let us move! We have a portal to shut down.

The group, consisting from a now only half-as-drunk Béa, a terrified Tristan, a completely emotionless Mavis, a cheerfully oblivious Pe'phriem and a resolute Vicaaryna walked to the Cathedral Square in complete silence.

When they got there, they saw an elderly man in a black robe with his back turned to them, talking to a group of people in white and gold armour.

- Nathaniel, sir! I brought friends! - Béa yelled at the man from across the street.

He turned around with a smile on his face.

- Béa! You're here. I got everyone ready, as Lady Ambrose asked of me.

He turned to the draenei.

- Achal hecta, Vicaaryna - he looked at her.

- King's honour, Nathaniel - she nodded.

- And You must be Pe'phriem. I must say, I've gotten quite used to seeing Void beings by now - he smiled, scratching his white beard - Tristan. I know you're eager to help, but are you sure?

- Yessir. I'll finally be useful - he tried to put on a resolute expression.

- What did I tell you about talking like that about yourself? - Nathaniel gave the young man a gentle slap on the cheek.

- I apologise sir - he replied.

Nathaniel exhaled through his nose and smiled at him - And don't apologise. You take care out there.

- I... I will - he said, his voice shaking.

- And Mavis... You too. I already lost a friend to voidforging, I... - he sighed.

- I do not fear death. Mariana didn't either. She went into it knowing the risks - Mavis replied coldly. - You needn't worry about me.

Nathaniel's expression darkened, letting the topic go.

- Here are my trainees, Joshua Parker and Morwynn Bright. They know everything about demon slaying and graduated top of their class. Only... They never got to practice on the field. This will be their first mission. They are at your command from now on, Exarch.

The two paladins nodded in unison and stood at attention.

- At ease, soldiers - Vicaaryna ordered. - Nathaniel, sir, you cannot be serious... You are giving me two freshly-graduated younglings? You are sending them to their deaths.

Nathaniel sighed.

- I have full confidence in my students' skills and they themselves volunteered to-

- When and how exactly are we supposed to learn how to fight if not now? - Morwynn interrupted, her eyes sparking.

- Don't interrupt Sir Clayden - Joshua seethed.

- Shut it, Parker. Sir Clayden himself taught us that blindly following the rules leads nowh-

- Enough! Look at them bickering even now. I apologise, Sir Clayden, but I will not take them with me - Vicaaryna said sharply.

- Understood. Chronakai kristor, Exarch - Nathaniel said quietly.

The group began walking towards the main gates of Stormwind, planning to then journey to Westfall to negotiate with Deuteros.

As soon as they reached the bridge leading into the city, they spotted him. Deuteros himself, sporting a huge dark blue spot under his swollen left eye where he hit his head on impact, using his hammer as crutch and limping. To say he was fuming with anger would be putting it lightly. His expression darkened even further as he saw the five walking towards him.

- We were just looking for you. Despite you not being a member of the Army anymore, I'm giving you a chance. I need all the help we can get. We need to close a Legion portal over Elwynn Forest. Are you up for the challenge? - Vicaaryna asked him coldly.

The former Vindicator looked at her with his one functioning eye.

- Yes... - he whispered defeatedly.

- Damn, lad, who beat ye up so badly? - Béa asked with genuine worry in her voice.

- I would rather not talk about it - Deuteros' yelled back, then he lowered his voice again. His eyes wandered to Pe'phriem and Mavis.

- High V- My Exarch, with  all due respect-

- With all due respect, if you lay a finger on anyone in my team I will kill you myself. And I am not *your* Exarch.

-... understood - Deuteros whispered.

### Chapter 2: Sydvar

Reaching the gates, each one of them got on gryphons - except Vicky, who climbed on "Tommy's" back, who had once again tuned into a gryphon - and they took off. The portal was a fearsome sight; as if the sky itself cracked open with a vortex of emerald flame. The gryphons reluctantly entered the wormhole one by one.

Upon leaving the wormhole, the group were met with towering demon stood in front of them, staring them down with a menacing grin. Suddenly, his expression faded into shock and pain as his body split in half. As the halves fell to the ground and the smoke cleared, a familiar voice was heard.

- Glad you could make it, Vicaaryna - Caliestes said as she fixed her glasses and wiped the vile green blood off of her sword. - And you brought that disgrace as well. You truly are a paragon of mercy - she said, glaring at Deuteros. She then spread her arms.

- Welcome to Sydvar! This is a Legion-controlled world, so keep your eyes peeled and be on your toes, all of you. Our main target is the pit lord Droth, he is keeping the portal open. I hope you are all prepared.

The group split up. Vicky and "Tommy" went with Deuteros to infiltrate Droth's stronghold, while Béa, Mavis and Tristan stayed behind with Caliestes to divert the demons' attention and win them time.

Deuteros fought valiantly on Vicaaryna's side, the demons fell one by one. Deuteros crushed a demon's skull with his hammer. Vicky severed the heads of two felguards with a single strike. Pe'phriem assumed his true form.

- I admire your skill, Exarch - Deuteros yelled. - Say, how about the two of us grab a drink after this?

Pe'phriem put his fist through a felguard's chest cavity - its vile blood bleaving acid burns on his arm - and threw the carcass at the wall of the stronghold, then turned around and grabbed Deuteros by the collar of his armour.

- Say one more word to her and I will kill you. I'm serious - he hissed in his face, shaking his other arm in pain. Deuteros laughed, put his free hand on "Tommy's" shoulders, pushed him away with all his might and shook his head, shrugging him off. He then ran towards the stronghold's gates and smashed his hammer into the lock.

- Help me break this! - he yelled. Vicaaryna began sending pulses of Light at the door, making it shake with every hit. "Tommy" attempted to help, blasting the gates with fireballs. The massive door frame shook and squeaked with every hit, eventually breaking at the hinges.

Just as the gates of the stronghold fell open with an ear-splintering screech, the others caught up with them. Tristan was grasping his left arm - the one he was previously holding his shield in - obviously broken. The massive entrance hall wasn't silent for long. Several doomguards burst through the door at the other end of the hallways and stormed them; three were taken out by Vicaaryna's shield, one was vaporised by Pe'phriem, and two cleaved in half by Béa's axe. Droth himself didn't make them wait too long either: the massive demon soon came charging down the hall.

Mavis began channeling her energies. The massive pit lord easily threw Béatha at the wall, knocking her out immediately.

Mavis kept channeling. Tristan ran to the injured dwarf to heal her.

Mavis kept channeling. Vicaaryna and Caliestes narrowly avoided Droth's room-sized mace, but Deuteros took a glancing hit.

Mavis was finally ready. But she was too late.

The pit lord grabbed her with one arm and devoured her whole. The explosion of black and red flames that followed, combined with the agonising cries of the monstrous demon, accompanied by his chest cavity bursting open with a flash of green was a surprise to everyone. Believing they couldn't have defeated the demon any other way, the ever-cunning Mavis sacrificed herself for the team. But there was no time to mourn. The explosion weakened the structure of the stronghold and it was now a matter of seconds before it collapsed. Vicky gestured for Caliestes to help Tristan carry the unconscious Béa out of the building while the two of them helped the former vindicator to his feet.

Caliestes successfully escorted the injured paladin and the comatose dwarf to safety. Vicaaryna gestured for her to go through the portal with them, which she did. As the three finally left the stronghold, the walls crashed down. Deuteros saw his chance. He pushed Pe'phriem back into the crumbling building, letting the rubble envelop him.

- That was... For getting me discharged... - he huffed.

Vicaaryna immediately pushed him aside and began digging through the debris in a state of frenzied panic. Her eyes began watering.

- TOMMY! - she screamed through sobs. - NO, PLEASE NO...

Deuteros slowly and painfully struggled himself to his feet, then crossed his arms and looked at the Exarch.

- He... He is dead, Exarch. Give up. This is the way it was supposed to happen.

Vicaaryna stopped. She slowly stood up and turned to face the former Vindicator.

- Let us go home, Exarch. He is not worth y-

He couldn't finish. Vicaaryna knocked Deuteros out with the hilt of her sword, then promptly returned to digging.

As time passed, and logic began overshadowing her panic, the Exarch realised that she's wasting valuable time, and began using her powers, creating waves of light to sift through the rubble more efficiently. Eventually, she found "Tommy". To her relief, his chest was moving up and down ever so slightly. She picked her sweetheart up, got onto Mavis' abandoned gryphon and flew through the portal mere moments before it began to destabilise and explode.

Vicaaryna's gryphon landed in a makeshift camp near Goldshire. She was escorted to a medical tent by two human guards. She saw Caliestes inside, putting a laying, unconscious Tristan's arm into a cast. Béa waved from the corner of the room. She was already awake and in relatively good condition - aside from looking like she's in dire need of a good night's sleep - although it was debatable what helped more; the bandage on her head, or the fresh pint of dwarven mead she was sipping on. Caliestes looked up and gave Vicaaryna a tired smile. She noticed the limp body of Pe'phriem in her arms.

- You can place him here, we have a bed free... What of Deuteros?

Vicky stared at her hooves.

- Eh, I reckon he deserved it - Caliestes shrugged and got back to work on Tristan's arm.

The Exarch wordlessly put her sweetheart's nigh-motionless body on the bed, caressing his face.

- Tommy... Sweetie... Please wake up... Don't do this to me... - the paladin was barely holding back tears.

Caliestes slowly walked up to her.

- My sister in the Light, I am afraid I lack the tools and methods to help him, but... There might be someone who could.

- But... Who? - she asked quietly.

- Me - a soft, deep, respectful but authoritative voice was heard. Vicky spun around. It was an elf in a tuxedo suit and a top hat that he took off, revealing his pitch-black hair and purple eyes.

- I am Erhand.

- Erhand... His... Brother.

- In a way, yes - he smiled knowingly. - A pleasure to meet you, Exarch.

- Can you please help him? I... I cannot... I cannot live without him - Vicaaryna stumbled upon her words, her eyes tearing up. Erhand nodded and stretched his palm towards Pe'phriem's face, closing his eyes. His lips moved wordlessly for a time, seemingly trying to communicate with his "brother". He left his outstretched hand there for several minutes, then flexed his arm - Pe'phriem's head and upper body following his movement, gently moving towards Erhand - before violently thrusting it forward, making "Tommy's" head hit the hospital bed.

Vicky stood there with baited breath. Pe'phriem eventually opened his eyes, blinking confusedly at his surroundings.

- Where is my... Where is... - he mumbled.

- TOMMY - Vicky pushed Erhand aside, almost making him fall. Pe'phriem jumped up from the bed and tightly embraced her, almost hurting her in the process. She didn't mind.

- Don't ever scare me like that again - she sobbed.

- Don't ever disappear from my sight... I'll learn to not blink anymore - he smiled as he buried his face into her shoulder.

Vicky gave her sweetheart a passionate kiss on the lips. As she let go, "Tommy" laid back on the bed and peered over her shoulder.

- Brother? - he said.

- Luciel Ambrose, if you so please - Erhand smiled.

- Thomas Mephistopheles Ambrose - he stared back.

- You made that up on the spot to impress me, didn't you? You do know that "tomcat" is merely a name for male cats, right? - Luciel shook his head with a smile.

- Whatever... I like the name -Thomas closed his eyes and smiled. - Know-it-all...

- Try not to exert yourself too much, then, Thomas. And don't get too comfortable with shapeshifting in the future. No other forms are as durable as your true form, they all have their downsides - Luciel said calmly as he bowed looking at Vicaaryna, then disappeared in a cloud of black smoke.

- Can you do that too, sweetie? - Vicky asked, smiling at her kitten and caressing his face.

- I never tried - he answered as he leaned in for a kiss.

The draenei locked her lips onto his and pulled him closer by the shoulders.

Caliestes finished bandaging Tristan and patiently waited for them to finish, then walked up to them.

- Would you all like to go to Stormwind to celebrate? - she asked kindly.

Vicky and Thomas looked at each other, then nodded in unison.

- I simply cannot wait for the seeing of sights! I'm looking ahead to it! - Pe'phriem beamed.

- Common isn't really your strong suit, is it sweetheart? - Vicaaryna asked mockingly.

- DAMN STRAIGHT, LET'S BLOODY PARTEH! - Béa joined the conversation. - I mean... Can I go too?

- Sure, just... Try not to get *too* drunk - the the Exarch rolled her eyes, smiling. - Tristan?

- Yes milady? - he opened his eyes, looked at the cast on his arm and frowned. - Lady Caliestes, with all due respect, I have expressly asked you not to-

- Yes, and I have elected to ignore your request - she said as she slowly walked back towards him. - What do you even mean by "a healer's duty is not to heal himself but to sacrifice himself for others if need be, and for him to accept any healing himself is a sign of weakness"? Who taught you this horseshit?

- M- Me, myself... - he mumbled.

- You won't last a minute on the field with this mentality - she said as she squatted down next to his bed. - Try setting your perfectionism aside in favour of being a team player, will you? - she smiled at him.

- Y- Yes, I think... - he stuttered.

- Good. Now. I asked whether or not you would like to accompany us to the city to celebrate and maybe have a drink or two with us - she asked him.

- Oh. No, I don't drink, but I will *accompan*y you - Tristan smiled weakly.

- Sissy - Béa said under her breath. - Let's get a move on then, we've a lot of ale to drink - she marched out of the tent triumphantly. The others followed behind, exchanging worried looks about the dwarf.

The group, consisting of Vicaaryna, Caliestes, Béa and Tristan, each got on gryphons (Vicky got on Pe'phriem. The gryphon keeper was getting used to the shapeshifter) and flew to Stormwind. They got off their mounts and Pe'phriem turned into his elf form. Caliestes leaned against a wall.

- You all have an hour to go sightseeing, we'll meet at the Old Town inn exactly one hour from now. Have fun, everyone! Squad... Dismissed - she saluted with two fingers and laughed.

Béa immediately ran to the nearest pub to "get warmed up", Tristan went to the Cathedral Square to meet with his old teacher, Vicky and Thomas walked to the docks to listen to the waves, and Caliestes sat down near the gryphon roost to rest after the battle.

The sun shone bright above Stormwind City, its rays gleamed on the furrowed brow of the late King Varian's statue. Vicaaryna and Pe'phriem walked down the road leading to the docks hand in hand, taking in the sunlight, listening to the ocean's waves.

- Vicky, what is "marriage"? I have heard that human speak that word.

- It is when two people who have decided to spend the rest of eternity together, promise one another to do so once again, in front of everyone. It begins with an engagement. One of them kneels in front of the other and asks the other-

- Vicky... - Thomas was already kneeling - Will you marriage me?

- Tommy... Sweetheart... - Vicaaryna started tearing up. - Yes, yes I will - she cupped her palm over her mouth and began crying.

- What happens now? - Pe'phriem looked up, his pupils dilating.

- Let's just enjoy the view for now, sweetheart - Vicky caressed his face and wiped off her tears.

They each got an ice cream and continued on their way.

- How does one eat this? - Thomas struggled to put the entire cone into his mouth.

- You lick, silly - Vicaaryna showed him.

- Oh, so it's like-

- Not a word - she replied, blushing.

The couple finally reached the docks. They sat down near one of the flights of stairs leading to the piers. Pe'phriem looked at his now-fiancée. She looked back and smiled at him sweetly. They spent the next hour kissing, only stopping to catch their breath.

- By the Light, look at the time! Caliestes wants us at the inn in five minutes! We need to hurry! - Vicky sprung to her feet after glancing at the clock on a nearby tower.

Thomas turned into a gryphon without saying a word, threw Vicky on his back and started flying.

- Baby no, wait... Ask around, I have no idea where the Old Town is...

Pe'phriem hastily landed in front of a terrified dock worker and screeched in his face.

- Baby no, they don't speak gryphon... - Vicaaryna looked up, pushed her locks out of her face and let out a nervous chuckle.

- What he meant to ask was, where is the Old Town?

- Uh... Right that way, milady - the worker pointed southeastwards with a confused look on his face.

- Thank you, and I apologise! - Vicky said as they took off.

The dock worker scratched the back of his head before shrugging and turning back to pick up the planks he dropped in his surprise. Pe'phriem landed in front of the Old Town inn just before the hour ran out. Caliestes crossed her arms.

- Where have you two lovebirds been? - she asked with a knowing smile.

Vicaaryna blushed, she didn't dare to say a word. Caliestes raised an eyebrow and barely noticeably nodded to signal that she understands everything. The group went into the bar. Tristan was uncomfortable, Béa was already drunk and eager to drink even more, "Tommy" and Vicky exchanged smiles, and Caliestes was well rested and oddly calm. The group each ordered a drink; Tristan a cup of peppermint tea - prompting Béa to laugh at him hysterically -, Béa, six tankards of dwarven ale - as an appetiser -, Vicky and Thomas, a glass of rosé each, and Caliestes, a shot of gin.

Vicaaryna taught Pe'phriem how to clink glasses together and took a sip of her wine, then noticed his wary expression.

- What is wrong, sweetheart? - she asked worriedly.

- It's just... - Pe'phriem couldn't finish his sentence from Béa's increasingly loud yelling.

- Come on lad, stop being a sissy, will ye? I ordered ye a... Hic! I ordered ye a pint, down it if ye're a man! - she slapped Tristan on the back so hard he almost spilled all of his tea.

- I- I really don't drink... - he said sheepishly.

- Go on then, ye gotta start somewhere, eh?

- I'm really not sure...

- Come on!

- A-alright, I'll try... - he took a sip of the mighty tankard of beer Béa slammed on the table in front of him. His face distorted. - It's really bitter...

- That's the point ye bum! Down it!

- I-

- Don't make me pour it down yer throat!

Tristan took a deep breath and drank as much as he could. He immediately began feeling dizzy.

Vicky looked at Thomas and gestured towards the door with her eyes. He nodded.

They went outside with their glasses in their hands.

- I feel a presence... As if someone is watching us - he said quietly.

- Sweetheart, what exactly do you feel? - Vicaaryna looked at him.

- It's... Not that clear cut, I feel... - he closed his eyes for a time, then opened them again, his pupils dilated unnaturally.

- Malice. Vengeance. Hatred.

- An agent of the Legion is stalking us? - the paladin looked around frantically.

- Not quite. It is someone that has personal grudges against both of us. It would be wise to go inside, I feel like whatever it is wouldn't dare attack us if we're not on our own.

- Understood - Vicky nodded sharply. - One thing I would like to point out, and this is completely off-topic, but your Draenei has significantly improved. Your Common leaves a lot to be desired though - she added with a giggle. - "Hole of ass"...

- We learn procedurally, it takes a while, especially for my kind of tenebre - Pe'phriem said embarassedly.

- Tenebre? So *that's* what you're called.

- It's what *your people* named us. I've sensed it Exarch Caliestes' mind. We don't have a *real* name. But I've heard different folks think different things about my kind. I've heard people call me a shade, a shadow, an omen or even phantom in their mind. I don't associate with any of these terms more than the next, but... This amount of attention is kind of flattering - he closed his eyes and smiled.

- PhanTommy can read minds now - Vicky said under her breath. - Now I don't even need to open my mouth to embarrass you...

Pe'phriem exhaled through his nose as he held Vicaaryna by the waist and kissed her on the lips. She shuddered and held his face in her hands.

- You ready to go back inside? - he asked as he pulled away. - Though... You might not like the state of the place - he smiled.

- Yes, let's - Vicky said, blushing.

Tristan, having drank the entire pint Béa ordered him, was laying on the table, completely knocked out. Béa was furiously step dancing next to him, while reciting dwarven drinking songs and completely missing every note. Caliestes sat near the table, staring on confusedly while sipping on her gin carefully. Vicky facepalmed and downed her glass of wine. "Tommy" followed suit. They both ordered another glass. Then another. After the fifth glass they felt like they've had enough and Caliestes, being the only person who wasn't completely wasted, booked a room each for Béa and Tristan at the inn, then turned to the couple.

- Do you two think you can get home on your own?

- Are you insulting me? I'm a part-time gryphon! - Pe'phriem mumbled, struggling to speak.

- There is no way I am letting you fly like this - Vicky looked at her sweetheart with a warm expression on her face. - Please, get us a gryphon, Exarch - she looked at Caliestes.

- Done. But you do not need to call me Exarch anymore, Exarch - she smiled at Vicky.

The three made their way to the gryphon roost, where Caliestes explained the situation to the gryphon handler in the most respectful manner possible. The handler nodded understandingly and lent the couple his strongest gryphon, a muscular, golden-feathered specimen, able to carry two passengers with ease. Caliestes stood at attention and did her silly two-finger salute as the mighty beast took off. Vicky returned the gesture with a smile.

The wind howled around the couple as it made its way across the starlit, clear summer sky above Elwynn. The paladin enjoyed the cool breeze against her skin. The daze in her head cleared slightly. As the gryphon landed near the logging camp, she got off and helped "Tommy" dismount as well, before patting the majestic beast on the neck. It lowered its head and made a purring noise, waiting patiently for her to let go, then took off towards the city.

The couple began walking towards their temporary home.

### Chapter 3: The Forty-Second

The next day Vicaaryna awoke to the sound of chirping birds. Pe'phriem was sleeping soundly in his elf form, his arm hanging off the bed as he drooled on the pillow. Vicky shook her head at him with a smile and reclined in the bed, feeling comfortable in his tunic. Suddenly, her communicator rang out. She stumbled out of bed, falling off of it, then clutched the communicator to her chest and ran out the room so as to not wake her sweetheart.

- Good morning, fellow Exarch. I called to congratulate you once again on the victory yesterday.

- I still do not know why I was promoted. Was it to compensate me for being falsely accused? - she rubbed her eyes sleepily.

- Yes, and no. You keep proving yourself again and again. Your leadership skills are astonishing to say the least. And this brings me to my next point.

- I knew you wouldn't call me just to lavish praise on me... - Vicky snickered, closing her eyes.

- Your Sector Army is looking for you, Exarch. You should meet them.

- Right. My Sector Army. Do I get a flagship as well? - Vicaaryna smiled.

- The *Requiem* is at your disposal, my friend. She's orbiting Azeroth as we speak. But you need not go that far for your Army. Their representatives are in Stormwind this very moment - awaiting you.

- I will go there immediately then, I want to know who I'll be working with.

- A word of advice: the Exarch of the Forty-First is here as well. "Lord Nel", they call him. Be warned, he's somewhat... How do I put this... Well, he's way too lenient. Please try to make up for that. I don't think *his* Sector Army will be... Up to par. What I'm trying to say is that he doesn't discipline his subordinates quite as much as you or I would. I'm worried - she added with a laugh.

- I'll keep that in mind, thank you, Exarch.

- Please, call me Cali - she grinned.

- Will do - Vicky smiled back.

- Oh, and... Cute tunic - Caliestes winked.

- I- Vicaaryna, out - Vicaaryna blushed as she ended the transmission.

She didn't have the heart to wake the still sleeping Thomas, so she embarked on her journey alone, but not before planting a kiss on the sleeping elf's forehead, then taking off the tunic he gave her and laying it down next to him on the bed. She donned her black and gold combat armour, then whistled for her grey horse.

- Tempest! Come to me. We have business to attend to.

Tempest shook her mane as she whinnied. Vicaaryna climbed onto her back and rode off to Stormwind.

A golden crystal-laden warship hovered over the city, its bridge lowered to the ground, seemingly the ship the troop of Lightforged draenei standing in formation on the Cathedral Square came from. One mustachioed officer was talking to a heavily-adorned lady, who seemingly had both her horns broken off and replaced with golden ornaments. Beside the man, stood another officer, seemingly a hunter, with an unimpressed expression on her face. She yawned.

- Achal hecta, everyone! - Vicaaryna carefully approached the group.

- Krona ki cristorr, Exarch - the mustachioed draenei gave her a suspiciously warm smile - I am Exarch Neladethaar.

- Nice to... Meet you. You seem awfully familiar - Vicky raised an eyebrow.

- Yes, well... We'll talk later - he exhaled through his nose with a smile. - Meet my daughters. This is High Vindicator Nedrah, the leader of my Divine Archer Detachment - he pointed his outstretched palm towards the grumpy girl. She rolled her eyes. - And that there is High Representative Netiiri, she will be the ambassador of your Sector Army - he turned to the broken-horned Netiiri.

The High Representative saluted. - I will serve with honor - she said with a gentle smile.

- So this is my Sector army, huh? - Vicky said, glancing over at the troops.

- Only their leaders. Medical Squadron Gamma is still without one, though, we couldn't find anyone who wasn't preoccupied, deployed on Argus, or out of commission - Neladethaar scratched the back of his head.

- W-what's all this commotion? - a familiar voice rang out. It was Tristan, still clutching his head from yesterday. He walked up to the group - Oh, good afternoon, Exarch - he smiled weakly at Vicaaryna.

Vicky nodded at him. - What about him? - she turned to "Lord Nel". - He's a pretty efficient healer.

- Adorable, too. Can we keep him, dad? - Netiiri giggled. Tristan blushed deeply.

- We usually don't recruit other races into the Army. Usually. But this kid kind of reminds me of the High Exarch to be honest... If he is willing to get lightforged himself, I can ask Turalyon if he allows it. The choice, of course, is ultimately yours, Exarch, since it's *your* Sector Army.

- L-lightforged? Does that hurt? - Tristan looked up, a worried expression forming on his face.

- Not *that much*... - Vicky said mockingly. - He reminds me of my late navigator to be honest. Nervous wreck, way too sensitive and a slight bit too fragile for war, but still efficient when needed.

- I'll take that as a compliment - Tristan gave a weak smile - I'll go through the process if that's what it takes for me to be a part of something bigger.

- Oh I just want to protect him, look at him! - Netiiri beamed.

- Nett. You're a slut - Nedrah crossed her arms.

- What?! How am I a slut? - she stared daggers at her sister.

- You do this every time we go to a new planet. You fall for the first cute guy you see.

- What do you even mean every time? I was born in space, this is the first real planet I even get to see! - Netiiri stomped.

Nedrah spread her arms. - My point still stands - she smirked.

- Calm down, girls. It is settled. If Lord Turalyon gives his blessing, this Tristan kid will join the Forty-Second. Now, come with me, Vicaaryna. We have much to discuss.

Vicky looked around in a confused manner. Neladethaar gave her a reassuring look. The two walked up the ship's bridge, leaving the giggling Netiiri, the flustered Tristan and the increasingly irritated Nedrah behind as the pressure lock closed behind them.

- So, as you know - Neladethaar started - I am the Exarch of the Forty-First, we'll be working together to protect Azeroth, blah blah blah, surrounding planets, blah blah blah, Legion attack, yada yada, whatever. Listen - his expression darkened - Your father was a good man, Vicaaryna.

- You knew my father? - Vicky's eyes widened.

- We didn't want it to be out in the open that the revered Exarch Nayuubi, headmaster of the Academy of the Light, leader of the Sixtieth, the legendary war hero had children, let alone that I'm one of them, I didn't want any of the extra attention, nor did I want to be treated differently because of my ancestry. But know this. Both your father and I are part of something bigger. I am the descendant of one of the most ancient eredar warrior bloodlines, and so was your father - my brother. And - your grandfather is proud of you, Vicky. Even if he's too stone-faced to show it - he added with a smile.

Vicaaryna's jaw dropped.

- Grandpa is an Exarch? And... And the headmaster too?! Wait, so... So Nedrah and Netiiri-

- Your cousins, yes. I didn't tell them yet, but in time, they will know as well. Now the reason I'm telling you this is that I *specifically* asked you to be put in charge of the Forty-Second so that I can protect you. I couldn't bear losing another family member. Not after what happened to my Naraya... - he hung his head. - So please promise me to take care of yourself.

- So the rumours were true... *That's* why they granted me the title of High Vindicator *despite* me being an Academy dropout... It was grandpa who arranged it all. I knew something was up with the headmaster. All I wanted was to be treated like everyone else and yet I get singled out... - she sighed. - I'm willing to bet he had a hand in me getting promoted to an Exarch as well... Whatever. I'll ask the higher-ups if I can retake the Academy from the start, now without the safety net that my "*birthright*" provided...

- I understand that you must be confused, maybe even frightened, but you had to know.

- No, I... Thank you, uncle Nel.

Neladethaar's expression turned into a wide grin as he hugged his niece.

- Now go on... You have an army to lead - he said as he wiped the tears of joy off his face and reopened the airlock.

### Chapter 4: Ice and Fire

The birds chirped cheerfully over the flowering meadow as Pe'phriem laid his head in Vicaaryna's lap, smiling at her. She gently smiled back, caressing his face.

- Wake up, sweetie... - she whispered.

- Huh?

- Wake up - Vicky's voice deepened.

- I-

- Wake up, brother! - Thomas jolted awake to Luciel shaking his shoulders. - Get dressed. We have business to attend to. Granted you aren't *too* tired after last night.

- I... What time is it? - Pe'phriem asked sleepily.

- The time for you to get stronger - Luciel said coldly, without even looking at him. - The stunt you pulled on Sydvar was... How do I put this? Unprofessional? Pathetic? Shameful? Worrying? - he crossed his arms behind his back as he walked around the room. Thomas scrambled to put on his clothes.

- I... What did I do wrong? I was pushed...

- What did you do wrong? What *didn't* you?! - Erhand suddenly turned around, pointing his index finger at his brother. - You were created with the intent to kill, to avenge. to maim and destroy, and yet you failed at *every single point* of your assignment - he said, punching his palm with his fist at every word for emphasis. He was uncharacteristically angry. - Has love made you soft, brother?

- I... - Thomas hung his head.

- I will personally see to it that you become stronger. We're starting today. And I haven't come alone, as you have surely noticed by now.

- No offense, but this hurt to sit through - Caliestes emerged from behind Luciel's back. - Your brother is better at roasting than you are, and that's saying a lot, given that I've seen your pyrokinesis.

- And how is *she* going to help me? - Pe'hriem raised an eyebrow.

- I'm not. Come - the Exarch walked out the room, glancing back knowingly over her shoulder.

The *Hand of Fate* was parked neatly in front of the entrance. Caliestes pressed a button, to which the ship began lowering its bridge and opening its airlock. From the bowels of the ship, a thick mist began oozing out, coupled with an unforgiving cold, covering the nearby blades of grass in rime. A pair of icy blue eyes began glowing in the vast darkness of the ship's interior.

- Come on out. Nittie, don't be shy - Caliestes said teasingly.

An extremely thin, dark-skinned draenei walked out into the field. Thomas immediately recognised her as his sister - another tenebre.

- I... I'm... - he stretched his hand towards the newcomer.

- Yes, Pe'phriem. I'm Ny'thara - she introduced herself coldly.

- Yes, *ice* to meet you - Thomas nodded with a smile.

Ny'thara took a deep breath and looked away.

- Is he always this unfunny and irritating? - she asked. Caliestes shrugged. Erhand nodded sadly.

- Alright then, let us begin. Erhand, you know what to do - Ny'thara said.

Erhand nodded as he began channeling a spell. The four were instantly teleported to a location not dissimilar to a battle arena. The fighting pit was paved with dark grey stones, above it, a spectator's podium. The sky was also grey, with heavy stormclouds floating over the barren setting.

- Where are we? - a puzzled Pe'phriem yelled up to the podium.

- You can call this a pocket dimension if you like - Erhand replied, standing near the parapets of the podium. Caliestes stood next to him, taking notes with gleaming eyes. - I can change its appearance, layout, weather, and any other property at a whim.

- How?

- You learn a few things in ten thousand years - Luciel smiled. - Begin!

Pe'phriem was taken by surprise by the first frostbolt, taking a direct hit in the chest and falling on his back. Caliestes flinched.

- Hey! This is not fair! - he said, gasping for air. He was frozen to the ground, unable to move.

- You can hardly expect your enemies to play fair. Ny'thara, do it - Erhand yelled coldly.

Pe'phriem only noticed now that Ny'thara was in her true form. She put her palms together, then stretched them outwards, a long spike of ice forming between her hands, which she then broke over her knee, giving it a terrifyingly sharp edge. She slowly walked towards the incapacitated Thomas, who tried to struggle his way out of his icy tomb, but to no avail. Meanwhile, a familiar voice penetrated the tense silence.

- Was I late? I read your note, Erhand, has the training started yet? - huffed Vicaaryna as she entered the spectator's podium, leaning against a rock pylon, clearly exhausted. - Oh...

- When did you even have the time to write a note? - Caliestes asked in a surprised tone. Erhand smiled mysteriously.

- Vicky! Don't watch! I... - Pe'phriem yelled at his sweetheart. - I don't want you to see this!

Ny'thara towered over the still incapacitated elf, tilting her head and letting out a bone-chilling clicking noise as she raised her makeshift weapon above her head.

- Don't interrupt them - Erhand said calmly, seeing Vicaaryna's terrified expression. - We tenebrim learn the quickest if necessity gets involved.

Ny'thara bore down with all her might, the ice spike going clean through Pe'phriem's chest and shattering on contact with the stone pavement. Thomas opened his eyes. He was unharmed; his body has turned completely gaseous and intangible. Erhand nodded with an expression of relief on his face.

- What just happened? - asked Pe'phriem and Vicaaryna in unison.

- This is called dispersion, and it's what you should have done back on Sydvar as well, instead of frightening your poor girlfriend - Erhand yelled. - Ny'thara, ease up on him. Let him stand up.

Vicky grasped the parapet with both of her hands so hard her fingers turned white. Ny'thara took a few steps back. Thomas attempted to get to his feet, but he was unable to interact with the world around him, flowing through every surface he touched. - How do I turn back? - he yelled.

- Focus! Think about what you want to happen!

Pe'phriem instinctively thought about becoming tangible again. The black mist that comprised his body started to become thicker and thicker, until he was able to stand up without melding into the ground. He was in his true form now.

- Now, counterattack!

Thomas hurled a fireball in Ny'thara's direction, who, just to rub her superiority in, waited until the last moment to blink away. She teleported behind Pe'phriem and kicked him in the back with full force, sending him flying into the wall of the arena.

- Focus, damn you! - Erhand slammed his fist into the stone parapet in frustration. Vicky teared up. Thomas must have felt her sadness and taken it as a sign that he's disappointed her, because he raised his head and got to his feet. Dodging Ny'thara, who was charging towards him, he elbowed his sister in the back of the skull before double tapping her with a quick fireball. Ny'thara staggered, but then quickly swept Pe'phriem's legs from under him and put her foot on his chest. Pe'phriem dispersed, then blinked behind her, encircling her arms under the armpits with his arms, pulling her backwards. Ny'thara dispersed and blinked forward. Pe'phriem followed, but was stopped by Ny'thara's fist through his abdomen. He took a step back, dazed by the hit. Ny'thara used his temporary weakness and kicked him in the skull, sending him flying once again.

- What's stopping them from reading each other's minds and copying each other's techniques? - Caliestes said, rubbing her chin.

- This place has properties that limit such abilities. For one, it would make it impossible for them to surprise one another, and two... What I want to see is him learning just by watching her - Luciel quietly answered without taking his eyes off the arena. - Besides, the hivemind is not something that's *just there*. Yes, we feel each other if we're close enough, but tapping into the hivemind is always voluntary, and it's something *he* doesn't yet know how to do. So even if I'd let him, he wouldn't be able to.

- Fascinating... - Caliestes tapped the bottom part of her holo-notes to turn to the next page and continued typing away fervently.

Pe'phriem was attempting to catch Ny'thara off-guard with a quick barrage of fireballs, but his sister was way too fast for him, blinking out of the way of every single one. Thomas was getting tired, but so was his opponent. In a last-ditch effort, he attempted to recall what Ny'thara did to stop him from moving, and it was at that moment that it dawned on him what he has to do. He calculated where Ny'thara's feet will land after the next blink, and, hoping with all his might that it will work, attempted to use her own technique against her. To his surprise, it worked! Ny'thara's foot was frozen to the ground. Using her surprise, Pe'phriem landed a direct hit on her face with a fireball. She shook her head furiously and began channeling a counterattack.

- Stop! - Erhand yelled, raising his hand. - Brilliant. Step two - he beamed.

Caliestes grabbed the parapet with both hands and leaned towards the arena, looking straight ahead with widened eyes, as if she was grappling with what she's just seen.

- This is beyond even what I've imagined... - she whispered.

Vicky was not any less surprised. Her gaze met Thomas'. They both looked away, blushing.

- Vicaaryna - Luciel said calmly. - Would you like to try it? - he smiled.

- Try... What? - she raised an eyebrow.

- Your sweetheart's newfound abilities - he replied. - A fight to the death.

- WHAT?! - Vicaaryna yelled, grabbing the elf by the collar of his purple robe. - You must be joking!

- I was - he smiled.

- You two really *are* of the same blood... - she sighed. - Alright, let's see if he's really improved. The first time he attacked me, I royally kicked his ass - she said as she vaulted over the parapet, landing in the arena. - Hi sweetie.

Pe'phriem tilted his head. - I can't do this... Not against you.

- I'll give it my all, you'd do best to do the same - she grinned as wings of Light emerged from her shoulderplates and her eyes began glowing a bright golden hue.

Thomas nodded, blinking away from Vicky's first attempt to strike at him. The next strike, being a hammer manifested out of pure Light being hurled at him, was a direct hit however, causing him to fall on his back from the force of the impact. He quickly got on his feet, but was immediately surrounded by the paladin's signature chains of Light. Before they were able to coil around his body, however, he dispersed, then blinked behind Vicaaryna, towering over her. Now in melee range, all Vicky could do was raise her shield before the enormous being bore down on her. Thomas wrapped his claw-like fingers around her shield, twisting it out of her hand and hurling it across the arena, embedding the bladed buckler firmly in a wall. Vicky tried to take a step back, and almost fell on her backside, as Thomas' void tendrils have already coiled around her hooves. Believing himself to be victorious, Pe'phriem looked up to the podium, only to see Erhand shaking his head. When he looked back, he saw Vicky stretching her hand towards her shield with her eyes closed, a wide smile growing on her face. Thomas looked at the shield, then back at the paladin, then back at the shield. The ancient buckler trembled and flew at high speed towards Pe'phriem, not even giving him time to react. It hit him in the head and flew back into Vicaaryna's hand. Dazed, Thomas didn't have time to react to the next "*pain-chain*". Defeated, he fell to his knees and quietly seethed with pain. Vicky knelt down to see eye to eye with him.

- That shield thing, I planned it all along. You need just a little bit more practice to outwit me, honey... - she smiled, flicking him on the forehead as she eased her grasp. Thomas turned back into his elf form.

- But not today - Erhand laughed. - I'm closing the simulation, be ready to return to the waking world.

Vicaaryna, Pe'phriem, Ny'thara and Caliestes all awoke laying in the grass between the *Hand of Fate* and the lumber mill.

- Was that all a dream? - Pe'phriem scratched his head.

Luciel leaned against the door frame of the house and shook his head.

- What you just saw was all real. Well, in a way - he smiled. - I must be going now, and I believe the Exarch has important business to attend to as well - he said cheekily, glancing at Caliestes, who was staring dreamily at her "Nittie". - But remember what you've learned here today, for it may one day save your life - he said as he dispersed into a cloud of black mist and disappeared from sight.

## Volume 3: Whispers of the Void

### Chapter 1: All Tomorrows

- Go, go, go! - Caliestes gestured towards the collapsing portal. - I'll hold them off.

As the last of her comrades left, the gateway destabilised and ceased to exist. A massive explosion shook the ground, sending debris flying in all directions. As the smoke cleared, Ny'thara saw Caliestes with her back to a rock formation, sitting in a puddle of her own blood. She ran up to her. Behind her broken glasses, the Exarch's eyes glimmered with a playful spark.

- Did... Did we win? - she forced herself to speak, smiling weakly.

- Ssshhh... Do not speak, please... - Ny'thara's calm and collected facade dropped completely as she burst into tears. - I will take you to safety.

- No... We won, it is alright - Caliestes laughed. Her laugh turned into a hacking cough, her blood spraying over Ny'thara. - Go now, celebrate with the others, honey...

- I am NOT leaving you here! - Ny'thara yelled, shaking the paladin's shoulders. - You're coming home with me!

A troop of felguards marched in, trying to flank the pair. Ny'thara sprung into action. Caliestes watched with cloudy eyes as her sweetheart gave her all to protect her.

- You were always too selfless for this world, Nittie... - Caliestes began rambling as her vision slowly faded. - Give them hell, little princess...

As the last of the felguards fell, its head tumbling on the ground, Ny'thara dropped her weapons. As the twin ice blades continued to sizzle on the ground, the demons' vile blood slowly dissolving them, the tenebre ran to her dying sweetheart.

- Cali! Don't... Please don't do this to me... - she huffed exhaustedly.

- Listen... My little dark cloud of respite - she smiled weakly as she touched Ny'thara's face with her hand, tracing blue blood all over her. - Please don't let this go to waste... This peace must last... Honor my... Go back and tell them... The war is over... I... Love y... - she mumbled as her limp hand fell into the dust.

Vicaaryna jolted awake in a cold sweat. Was that a vision? A nightmare? She noticed a worried Pe'phriem looking at her with wide eyes.

- Vicky? What is wrong? - he asked with genuine concern in his voice.

- It... I've had a terrible nightmare... - she fell back onto the pillow. Thomas wrapped his arm around her.

- It is okay, sweetie... I won't anything bad happen to you - he squeezed his paladin.

- It wasn't even about me, it was... - she sighed. - Nevermind, let's just... Huh?

Her communicator was ringing.

- Good morning, fellow E-

- CALI! It's so good to see you! - she beamed.

- Yes, it... It is good to see you too. What's with the sudden burst of energy? - she smiled as she fixed her glasses which nearly fell off from the surprise. - Anyways... Your next assignment will test your limits, Exarch - her expression got serious. - I advise you, *both of you*, to train with Erhand's method, it seems... Very effective - she added with admiration.

- Train? I can beat this dork blindfolded, with my hands tied behind my back, maybe *he's* the one who should train - she poked Thomas in the side.

- I'm serious. Planet Koshmaar is a heavily guarded Legion stronghold, you will need to give it your all. Each and every single one of you - Caliestes said. Her voice was a far cry from the cheerful tone earlier.

- U- understood - Vicaaryna saluted, for a moment forgetting she was an Exarch too.

- Once you are ready, call me back. Caliestes, out - she ended the transmission. Vicky sighed.

After another day of training, Pe'phriem was getting frighteningly close to being evenly matched with the paladin, almost gaining the upper hand in several instances, utilising his newfound powers more and more creatively.

- Alright, that is enough. I'll take the two of you home now - Erhand yelled. - Next, I might teach you about illusion - he added, closing his eyes and smiling.

Back at their temporary home, Vicky sat down on the bed, even more exhausted than the day before.

- Cali said something about talking to my Sector Army, but... - she said as she slowly laid down on the bed. - I couldn't sleep too well last night, can we rest a little first, baby? - she asked Thomas, staring at him longingly. He smiled at her and caressed her face.

- Of course we can, come, darling... - he said, laying down next to her and embracing her tightly. - Sleep well, and sweet dreams.

- You too... I love you - she said with a tired smile, then yawned.

- I love you too - Pe'phriem answered with a smile as they fell asleep.

- Go, go, go! - Vicaaryna gestured towards the collapsing portal. - I'll hold them off.

As the last of her comrades left, the gateway destabilised and ceased to exist. A massive explosion shook the ground, sending debris flying in all directions. As the smoke cleared, Vicky saw Pe'phriem with his back to a rock formation, sitting in a puddle of his own blood. She ran up to him.

- Did... Did we win? - he forced himself to speak, smiling weakly.

- Ssshhh... Do not speak, please... - the paladin said, tears rolling down her face - I will take you to safety.

- No... We won, it is alright - Pe'phriem laughed. His laugh turned into a hacking cough, his blood spraying over Vicky - Go now, celebrate with the others, honey...

- I am NOT leaving you here! - Vicaaryna yelled, attempting to pick the tenebre up. - You're coming home with me!

A troop of felguards marched in, trying to flank the pair. Vicaaryna sprung into action. Thomas watched with cloudy eyes as his sweetheart gave her all to protect him.

- You gave up everything just to be with me... - "Tommy" began rambling as his vision slowly faded. - Look where it got you in the end...

As the last of the felguards fell, its head tumbling on the ground, Vicaaryna dropped her weapons. As her legendary shield, a family heirloom began sizzling on the ground, the demons' vile blood slowly dissolving it, the paladin ran to her dying sweetheart.

- TOMMY! Don't... Please don't do this to me... - she huffed exhaustedly.

- Listen... Please listen to me... - Pe'phriem muttered in a somber tone as he touched Vicky's face with his hand, tracing black blood all over her. - I was a burden all along... - Vicaaryna shook her head, sobbing - At least I die with... My purpose is fulfilled... Go back and tell them... The war is over... I... Love y... - he mumbled as his limp hand fell into the dust.

Vicaaryna woke up screaming.

- Honey, what's wrong? You cried in your sleep - Pe'phriem was already squeezing her tightly.

- I'm having the same nightmare over and over again, only... - she muttered between gasps as tears streamed down her face.

- I know who can help you, sweetie - "Tommy" whispered as he wiped off her tears with the sleeve of his tunic.

The shadow the *Requiem*'s landing ship cast didn't do much to shield the streets of Stormwind City from the scorching summer sun. At the Underdogs HQ, Vicaaryna began relaying her story to one of her most trusted confidantes.

- A nightmare? - Eserill raised an eyebrow.

- Yes, every time I fall asleep, it's a different permutation of someone close to me, or even me myself losing my significant other in a very graphic and disturbing way, and...

- Hang on. That sounds more like my sister's field of expertise - she said quietly, her expression barely even changing. - Allie! Alectrona!

A slender, purple-haired elf girl walked out of the back room, her eyes the same deep purple hue as Eserill's. She radiated an aura of caring, her quiet, restrained voice full of a deep-seated sadness and worry as she spoke.

- Yes?

- Multiverse shit.

- Oh no, not again... - Alectrona frowned. - But... Please do tell me about it - she sighed as she sat down in front of Vicky, next to Eserill.

- You see - Vicaaryna said, barely able to hold back her tears - every time I close my eyes, I see a vision. It is always almost precisely the same, but the people in it change every time. We are on a Legion planet, someone loses their loved one and... - she cupped her hand on her mouth as she began crying.

- Oh no... - Alectrona closed her eyes, pinched the bridge of her nose between her thumb and her index finger and rubbed it. - Essie... She's beginning to see it...

- See... what? - Vicky's voice grew even more disconcerted.

- The multiverse - Alectrona said. - To make it short and simple, at any given moment, there are an infinite amount of timelines being created, branching off one another, coexisting in different ways... You are beginning to see all possible outcomes for a future event unfolding in front of your eyes. One by one.

- But... How? Why? Is this a curse? Why me? - Vicaaryna began sobbing again. - Can it be stopped?

- As for the why, well... Have you been exposed to Void creatures for an extended period of time lately? - Alectrona asked.

- Why are you even asking her that? - Hekate stormed out of the back room. - You know exactly that she and uncle Pe'phriem... - she made suggestive gestures with her hand. Vicaaryna blushed.

- Hekate, you're an ass - Eserill said without even looking up at her sister. - You have a natural talent to ruin the mood.

Hekate shrugged with a smirk, then sat down. Eserill looked at Vicky before continuing.

- As for the 'can it be stopped' part... There *is* a way timelines can be collapsed into one another, "braided together" if you will, so that any string of events will result in a favourable outcome, BUT... As far as I can tell, only Nozdormu is capable of pulling that off. And he's a douche. Even moreso with us half-breeds.

Alectrona opened her mouth as if trying to say something, took a breath, then closed her eyes and shook her head. She then exhaled through her nose and raised her head, opening her eyes.

- I can do it - she said with a hint of steely determination in her soft voice.

Both of her sisters turned their heads at her in unison.

- You what?! - Hekate asked, her chair squeaking from the intensity of her turn.

- I can't keep it a secret any longer... Girls... The 'other Essie' and the 'other Jaime' didn't end up here because of a time paradox. I rescued them from a doomed timeline. Only the two of them survived. I then erased that timeline from existence. You can hate me for my actions, but had you seen what I have, you would have done the same - she said, then fell silent, looking out the window.

- Well, that sure was something - Hekate said.

- I... I need a little time to take all of this in - Vicky said as she grabbed the backrest of her chair with a trembling hand and stood up. - I... Thank you. All of you. And Alectrona... Let's talk later.

- Hold it - Allie said as the paladin was ready to leave. She squeezed her palms together, manifesting a small object that looked like an organic, almost flesh-like stone tablet, covered in carved patterns. - This is a Communion-Stone - she said, handing the tablet to the paladin. - You can use it to talk to me whenever you wish to, but please don't bother me when the red part isn't glowing - she added with a tired smile.

- I... Thank you - Vicky mumbled as she left the building. - Goodbye!

### Chapter 2: A Captain Once Again

Exarch Neladethaar was at the Cathedral District, trying to discipline her elder daughter, as usual. When he noticed his niece, his expression brightened.

- Ah, Exarch Vicaaryna! Welcome!

Nedrah rolled her eyes.

- Ugh, dad, now that we know that she's our cousin, you can stop with the formalities.

Neladethaar smiled.

- Yes, I told them - he said before Vicky could even ask the question.

- And when will you tell *her*, dad? About what happened to mom? - Nedrah asked coldly. Neladethaar gave his a daughter a tired smile.

- I think I've told both of you already, mommy turned into a supernova, and every time you look at the stars-

- Yeah right. Maybe my bimbo of a sister buys that bullshit, but I've heard what happened. I know how she exploded into a million bloody bits when the Forty-First were first sent to Azeroth and her ship got totaled by a Legion dreadnought, how she sacrificed her life to save *your* cowardly ass, and *that's* why you're scared to-

- ENOUGH! - Nel got uncharacteristically angry. - Your mother was a war hero, that much is true - he said, trembling. - But she didn't follow *my* orders. I *specifically* asked her to fall back, but... - the Exarch began crying.

- Alright, I... I'm sorry dad... I didn't know the details, all I heard were rumours... Please tell me the details... - Nedrah's expression softened as she hung her head and patted her dad on the back. The mighty draenei wordlessly put her arm around his daughter for comfort and sobbed quietly.

- I never knew what you had to go through... - Nedrah said quietly.

- Nobody did except for me and my navigator Maanji... I took the blame for her death and in the official reports, it is still documented as a misconduct labeled "negligence"...

- Listen dad, I... I'm sorry I accused you - Nedrah looked up with genuine guilt in her eyes.

- I'm sorry I yelled at you, little one... - Neladethaar hugged her tighter.

- Uh... I'll... I'll come back later - Vicaaryna gave them an anxious smile. - I'll go see how Tristan is doing.

Vicaaryna boarded the landing ship, set the coordinates, and watched as the vessel took off, eventually breaching the atmosphere. Before her was her new flagship, the *Requiem*. She was a sight to behold; much larger than Deuteros' former attack frigate, despite being custom-made to be larger than the usual ship of her kind; probably to mirror her captain's ego, she though to herself.

The landing ship approached *Requiem*, the latter automatically opening the doors to her landing bay to accommodate the smaller vessel. As the ship landed and the airlocks closed behind her, she felt a presence, but went on to explore her new ship, brushing the premonition off.

Walking by the lighforging chamber, she noticed the boy on his hands and knees, gasping for air, as Netiiri patted his head with a wet rag and hushed him. Arcs of pure Light darted from his body to the ground and back as he raised his head to look at Vicky with his new, glowing golden eyes.

- H-hi... - he said weakly.

- Welcome aboard, High Exemplar - she smiled. - Take care of him, Nett. He'll be like this for a few more hours - she added as she walked out.

- Will do! - Netiiri grinned as she waved goodbye.

As Vicaaryna entered the command bridge of her new flagship, she felt a sense of fulfillment.

- I did it, dad... I did it for you... - she whispered as she caressed the armrest of the captain's seat and closed her eyes.

Her moment was interrupted by a familiar voice.

- Hi Vicky- Pe'phriem poked his head into the chamber. - I promise I won't wreck this one...

- That's *Captain* Vicky for you, 'void filth' - she said jokingly, then walked up to him and flicked his forehead with a laugh. - How did you sneak up here, my little stowaway? - she asked as they embraced.

- I'll show you... - he grinned as he turned into a cloud of smoke and began chaotically zipping around the chamber, then manifested in front of her again. - My training finally shows. Besides, they know we... - he made suggestive gestures with his hands. - I don't think they mind me here. Can I be your second-in-*coma*?

- Oh, you'll be in a coma soon if you keep being this cheeky! - Vicaaryna snapped at him, blushing. - Anyways, after the dreams I have been having, there is no way I'm taking you to any Legion worlds and risking losing you... - she added darkly.

- Oh, come on! That's like having a knife and not cutting anything with it! I was made to-

- Yes, I know! - she yelled. - But... - she teared up and hugged her sweetheart tightly. - I don't want *my* knife to dull, or Light forbid, *break*...

- That is why we are training, sweetheart... Please, trust me... I promise I won't get hurt - Pe'phriem raised Vicaaryna's face with one hand and gently kissed her on the lips. - I'm getting better at dodging, and...

- Are you? Then show me - Vicky suddenly got into a playful mood.

- Now? But... Erhand's...

- We don't need him. Let's do it in front of the gates of Stormwind like those adventurer folks do! - her eyes lit up.

- Well... Alright, I'll show you what I've learned. I'm not taking any responsibilities for broken limbs, horns, and/or dreams, though... - he poked the paladin in the side.

- Your won't be so confident with my shield in your mouth - she poked back twice as hard.

They both laughed before they boarded the landing ship together. Pe'phriem planted a swift kiss on Vicky's cheek before the ship took off towards Stormwind with blinding speed.

### Chapter 3: The Deserter

Thomas wasn't lying. Vicky was barely able to dodge the barrage of fireballs hurled her way while desperately trying to counterattack, only for him to blink out of the way of each and every single one of her attempts at throwing her shield at him or blasting him with a hammer of Light.

- Alright, you want to play dirty? - she whispered under her breath, smirking. For a while, she stopped trying to attack, lulling Pe'phriem into a false sense of security. Seeing a window of opportunity, she made her move. - Catch! - she yelled as she smote the tenebre with a forceful, concentrated, vertical attack aimed at his head, stunning the being before running up to him and administering a swift kick to his abdomen causing him to fall on his back. She knelt over him.

- Ha! Still got it! - she huffed victoriously. Thomas was far too flustered to blink away. - What's the matter, Tommy? Did the mean space goat lady beat you again? Poor little baby... - she said as she squished his face between her hands. - Oh, you're so adorable, you-

Her communicator rang out.

- I- I need to take this, I'm sorry. It might be serious - she said as she sprung to her feet. Thomas nodded understandingly as he got up as well and stood behind the paladin, putting his hand around her waist. The screen blinked on.

- Cali here. Listen... We... We have sent an investigation team to Sydvar to make sure there is no Legion presence left and... Well... They have brought back interesting news - Caliestes stuttered, looking uncharacteristically bothered.

- What happened? Did we miss something? - Vicaaryna said, grasping the communicator with both hands.

- No... Well... Whatever you did to Deuteros, he survived - Vicaaryna's eyes widened. - If the intent was to get rid of him for good, then I'm sorry my sister, but you've failed. We found no body, no anything. And now for the worse part. He might be up to something, since A, he didn't come crawling back to us like the spineless lapdog I know him to be and B, one of the smaller Legion ships is missing.

- I knew I should have stabbed the fucker to death then and there - Vicaaryna sighed, burying her hand in her palm. - What are we to do?

- Nothing. I have already notified the MP about it, I just thought you would be interested. It is rare for someone to act this way after their discharge - hell, it's not even common for us to discharge anyone, really - but he's...- Caliestes narrowed her eyes and shuddered. - I've seen how... Worryingly attached he was to *you* and how adamant he was about killing *him* off - she nodded towards Pe'phriem. The tenebre waved at the communicator jovially. - He was always odd, even back at the Academy. I was his classmate, it was a nightmare... - she shook her head with a sigh. - He even... Tried to court me - the paladin broke out laughing. - His ego is - and always was - the size of a planet, but I reckon you already know that well... The guy has always been ever so slightly off his rocker from day one, and he hasn't changed an iota since. If anything, he's gotten worse. He really is something special...

- Oh he's *special* alright... - Vicaaryna rolled her eyes and smiled bitterly. - Anyways, what's MP?

- Military Police. They're responsible for catching deserters and bringing them back to the Army. Now, our *friend* is not a deserter per se, but it's definitely something Dehaart should deal with.

- Who?

- The best man they could have sent for the job. You needn't worry; he'll have Deuteros apprehended and/or dispatched in a two shakes of a talbuk's tail.

- I... Wow. You're effective - Vicky tilted her head and pursed her lips in admiration.

Caliestes closed her eyes and smiled.

- Thank you. Now... Koshmaar is still our highest priority. You and the team you will assemble have two days from now to depart. I and the Fifty-First will provide air support, but you and Neladethaar will lead the charge. I have great expectations for you, Exarch. Caliestes, out. Oh, and... *Nittie* sends her regards and asked me to tell Pe'phriem that he's, and I quote - she produced a holo-note from a table behind her - "the runt of the litter and he still sucks at fighting so he better shape up". Okay, toodles!

Caliestes did her signature two-finger salute before ending the transmission.

Vicky looked at Thomas. He was in utter shock, eyes narrowed, arms spread out, mouth ajar.

- How do I suck at fighting?! How? You saw me...

- From now on, I'll train you myself - she caressed his face.

- I... Alright - he looked at her, his pupils dilating.

- No but seriously, you're improving scarily fast. You don't even need your true form to cast spells anymore - Vicky beamed at him.

- Thank you honey - Pe'phriem smiled, but Vicaaryna couldn't help but notice there was a sadness about him.

- Tommy, baby, what's wrong? - she asked and held his hand.

- Listen... Can I tell you something? - he replied with a somber tone in his voice.

- Uh... Sure, I guess... - the paladin said, clearly taken aback by the sudden shift in tone.

### Chapter 4: All Yesterdays

Pe'phriem sighed.

- My kind have a tendency to develop new abilities, as you have probably realised by now. Sometimes, it's not even voluntary... Since the battle, I have noticed that I have began reading the minds of random people against my will and... - he shook his head. - Now I read memories as well. That Neladethaar person has a vivid, traumatic memory that I have accidentally read, and I am not sure if I should-

- Please tell me.

- How about I show you instead? - he asked. Vicaaryna nodded. The tenebre raised his hand and put it on her forehead, making her faint immediately.

She awoke on the the pristine bridge of a draenei spacecraft. She saw a younger Nel frantically pressing buttons on the dashboard in front of him.

- That ship is far too much for us to handle! The Legion knows where Azeroth is now, we HAVE to prevent the information from reaching Argus! Maanji! Tell the Forty-First we need backup!

- It's no use sir, they are preoccupied with repelling the attackers. This flagship is the only available vessel we have - a deep-voiced, massive draenei replied. Neladethaar shook his head.

In front of them, through the window, a massive, almost space station-sized Legion vessel was charging its emerald green rays, ready to obliterate the Exarch's flagship.

- Nel, baby. I have an idea - said a voice through the communicator that sounded like how spring breeze feels on the skin.

- Naraya? - the Exarch's face lit up.

- Please, do refer to me as *High Vindicator* Naraya, my Exarch - the voice cheekily said, then giggled. - Listen. I have an idea how to stop them.

- I'm listening, *High Vindicator* - Neladethaar smiled, twirling his moustache.

- I'll distract that dreadnought in my fighter. I'll buy you time while you try to shoot it.

Nel's face darkened.

- That's crazy talk. What if you get hurt?

- Would you rather tell the Council - given that you won't get shot down in a few moments - that we've failed our mission and Azeroth has fallen to the Legion?

Neladethaar trembled.

- Please be careful and come back in one piece... - he whispered.

- Will try. Naraya, out.

A smaller spacecraft was seen emerging from the bowels of the flagship. Naraya's pride and joy, the *Western Sun*. The inconceivably huge Legion ship immediately stopped charging its weapons, and recalibrating the immediacy of the threat, turned its auxiliary defensive cannons on the fighter. Neladethaar brought his clenched fist to his mouth in anticipation. The *Western Sun* darted around with blinding speed, dodging the fel blasts of the smaller weapons in the dreadnought's arsenal, eventually stopping dead in front of its command bridge, where a blind spot was located. They've learned about all of this at the Academy, but it all seemed so surreal to the Exarch in this very moment. The communicator rang out. Nel grabbed it with the vigor of an animal.

- Nel... Remember how I... Heh... Didn't promise you anything? This ship's weapons would only make a dent on that monstrosity, if anything, but... I know what to do.

Neladethaar almost dropped the communicator as the *Western Sun*'s warp engine began firing up.

- Naraya! Darling, my only, my star, please, I'm begging you, turn back! No! - tears began falling down the Exarch's face as he realised what her beloved was planning.

- Nel, honey... Please tell the girls that mommy is a supernova now, and all they need to do is look up to the sky to see her again... They're much too young to understand - her voice began to crack, she sounded like she was crying.

- HIGH VINDICATOR NARAYA, TURN BACK THIS INSTANT! THAT IS AN ORDER! - the Exarch roared through tears as he dug his fingers into the communicator, cracking it slightly.

- Sweetheart... Tell the Council I was disobedient... They wouldn't blame a dead girl... - she laughed bitterly, her voice barely audible through the steadily loudening hum of the warp engine. - I love you, Nel.

The *Western Sun* flew clean through the command bridge at warp speed, resulting in a blinding explosion of green and gold that echoed through the cosmic void and shook the flagship to its core. After regaining his balance, Neladethaar slammed his fist through the dashboard several times over in a blind rage.

- NO! NARAYA! NO! - he yelled as he began violently sobbing.

Vicky opened her eyes.

- Sweet Light of the Naaru... - she whispered as tears streamed down her face. She was still laying on the ground, all she had the strength for was to slowly turn towards Thomas - Since when can you...

- See memories? This was the first time...

- No, what the FUCK was that illusion thing?

- It's another thing I've developed over time... - Pe'phriem whispered and hung his head, feeling responsible for Vicaaryna's state.

- No, it's... I asked for it... Don't feel bad honey... Just... Please, don't do this ever again unless I ask you to.

He sadly nodded and stretched his arm towards the paladin, helping her to her feet.

- There is a reason I've shown you this - he said.

- Huh?

- Do you know what it feels like to know of every permutation of every timeline? - Thomas asked quietly. - There are infinite versions of this past event, one where Neladethaar sacrificed himself for her, one where they sent the navigator to his death, one where the Exarch stalled for so long that they all got shot down, one where reinforcements came and nobody died... - he closed his eyes. - The Void knows of every version of everything there is to be known of and... Maybe the fact that these shapeshift forms are mortal is the reason, but... I feel like this fact alone is gnawing at me, it saddens me that it could have ended in other ways... I think I have developed what you call "empathy"... And it's taking a toll on you as well - he turned towards Vicky. - And this is the point I'm trying to make. I don't want you to get hurt anymore. I don't want to be a burden anymore.

- Tommy, no! - the paladin suddenly hugged him, as memories of her dream flashed before her eyes, and Thomas' dying words now rang frighteningly familiar. - Please, stay with me... - she hugged the tenebre so tight that he forgot how to breathe for a moment, let alone how to disperse and run away.

- I... - Pe'phriem stuttered as she let go. - I mean it. I genuinely mean it. I'm having a negative effect on you...

- Shut up. Just... Just shut up. I love you, you stupid idiot, and I wouldn't EVER let you go, even if that were true - she said with the authoritativeness of an Exarch as she gently headbutted him repeatedly. - My 'void filth'. I found it - she said as she squeezed him again and rubbed her head against his chest. She then looked up to meet his gaze with her dewy eyes.

Thomas sighed.

- You need to get used to visions like this, then. You'll see all possible outcomes at once. But... Well, if you can get over the initial shock, it could even benefit you. Knowing how things *could* play out helps you see how things *should* play out, then act accordingly. Or something. I'm starting to sound like Erhand and I hate it - he shook his head and smiled weakly.

- You're adorable... Listen, I'll manage, sweetheart. For you - for us - she buried her face into his chest again with a smile.

- Thank you... - he whispered as he finally hugged back.

- Now... Could you please use your new powers to show me how this Dehaart guy is doing?

## Volume 4: A Grievous Strike

### Chapter 1: The Lonely Hunter

- This is Enforcer Dehaart of the Military Police. Come in, High Command. Do you copy?

- This is Exarch Monoceros. We copy you loud and clear, Enforcer.

- I am approaching their base of operations as we speak. It is a seemingly abandoned asteroid station.

- Do exercise caution, Enforcer. We do not know what we are dealing with.

- Copy that. Landing now. Over and out.

Dehaart's journey led him to the clandestine base for a newly formed extremist group. The atmosphere hung heavy with tension as the Lonely Hunter silently moved through the shadows, observing a ragtag assembly of disillusioned deserters and zealots from several backgrounds, as well as mercenaries from many races.

At the heart of the makeshift camp, Deuteros stood, still wearing his battle-damaged Army uniform, rallying his followers with impassioned speeches against the Void. The former Vindicator had become a charismatic leader, attracting those who shared his disdain for anything touched by the dark energies. Dehaart observed the scene unfold from a corner. He reasoned that confronting Deuteros would not be easy, seeing that the fallen Vindicator had apparently gathered a zealous following. With patience and precision, Dehaart waited for the opportune moment to reveal himself.

- And so I tell you, my brothers and sisters, the leaders of the Army have become so soft and weak, that they allow their soldiers, even their officers, to marry these abominations! - Deuteros roared, slamming his fist into his speaker's pedestal. A chorus of disgusted groans echoed through the dark hall. - And we *will* eradicate these abhorrent beings, and we will stop at nothing, not even if their leaders send-

Dehaart stepped into the dim light, his presence casting a foreboding aura over the assembly. All eyes turned toward the mysterious tracker. Before speaking, he rested his hand on the holster of his massive gun.

- Deuteros - Dehaart's voice cut through the silence. - Your path has led you astray, and this group stands as a stain against the ideals we swore to uphold.

Deuteros, arrogance undiminished, sneered at the intruder. - Well, well, well. And what does the Lonely Hunter want with us? Have you come to join our righteous cause? Or have you come to shoot me down? The power you serve is corrupt, Enforcer. We are truer followers of the naaru than anyone in your precious Army of the Light, we are the Voidhunter Militia! - he yelled, triggering a wave of agreement in the crowd.

Dehaart's response was a stern shake of his head.

- I've come to offer you a choice – redemption or retribution. Restart your career as a reinstated Marine within the Army of the Light, or continue down this path and face the consequences - he said as he unholstered his gun.

The Voidhunter Militia murmured among themselves, uncertain of the stranger's intentions. Deuteros locked eyes with Dehaart.

- You were once a part of something greater - Dehaart continued. - Remember your oath and the purpose we serve. The Void is not our true enemy. Join us, or face the fact that you and your followers are no better than the Burning Legion.

Deuteros finally spoke, his voice wavering but determined.

- You speak of redemption, but I've seen the hypocrisy within those hallowed halls. I will not bow to the whims of traitors who coddle Void creatures and endanger our kind.

The murmur among his followers grew louder, some nodding in agreement, while others exchanged uncertain glances. Deuteros continued.

- The Void must be eradicated, not embraced. I stand by the Voidhunter Militia, and together, we will cleanse the cosmos of its taint!

- And what happens next? - Vicky blinked awake and looked at Thomas, who has seemingly finished his "presentation", because he too, has opened his eyes and was looking at her.

- This is where the paths diverge; the crossroads, if you will. I do not know what his decision will be, but... Something is off. It seems that in every iteration, the station is blown to bits in the end and there are only two survivors *at best*. This Dehaart character and/or our beloved *Doot* - he said as he rolled his eyes.

- Well, let's hope for the best. We can't do anything to directly influence the outcome right now - Vicaaryna sighed.

- What is it exactly you're hoping for? - Pe'phriem turned to her.

The paladin shrugged.

- *Doot*'s death, I guess - she laughed.

Thomas smiled and exhaled through his nose.

- How much longer do we have until we have to go to that planet? - he asked.

- *You're* not going anywhere - Vicky said sharply.

- I believe we have discussed this earlier, *Captain*. If I'm *yours*, then you're *obliged* to take me with you - he said, turning up his nose with a smile.

The paladin sighed.

- Fine. But if anything happens to you... - she grabbed the tenebre by the waist and hugged him tightly. - I'll kill you myself.

- Deal - he grinned.

- To answer your question, two days, or, well, one and a half now. We need a team, and I feel like we need more than Army grunts to cleanse that planet, sooo... We need the Underdogs' help again - Vicky said, laying down on the silky grass.

- I like those guys, they seem nice - Thomas said as he laid next to her with a smile and let the rays of the dying sun caress his face. - Then again, I might be biased because most of them are part of my extended family one way or another - he grinned.

- They are? - Vicky looked at him with a wide-eyed stare.

- You're beautiful, I hope you know that. Every time you look at me, I feel like dying and being born anew, rejuvenated and a millennia younger.

- I- Y- Thank you... - she replied, blushing, - But you're not even that old! - she added when she recovered from the initial shock and realised what Thomas just implied.

- It's another thing I've learned, it's called a 'hyperbole' - he said, closing his eyes.

- Look at Professor Pe'phriem, would you like to teach languages at the Academy? Smartass - she laughed as she rolled over to hug him.

### Chapter 2: Assembling the Team

By the time the two got back to Stormwind, the sun was almost ready to set. Before they could make it to the Cathedral Square however, Thomas got distracted by a shop near the main gates.

- Vicky, what is that they are selling over there? It smell delicious - he looked longingly towards the shop, the name "Trias" painted in bold, yellow letters on the name plate above the entrance. The paladin squinted at it.

- Cheese, I believe. Would you like to try it? - she asked with a gentle smile.

- Would I?! - the elf asked, already halfway in the door.

They ended up buying a large selection of cheeses, most of which Pe'phriem ended up having to consume, as Vicaaryna claimed she's not a huge fan of it. The tenebre, on the other hand...

- Can I please have more? - he said, his mouth full with a great big chunk of goat cheese.

- Maybe some other time, you'll upset your stomach, dear - the paladin said with a laugh. - It's strange, I thought you were a cat, not a mouse.

- Why did I not know about this thing earlier... - he said with a grateful smile as he swallowed. - This is the second best thing I've ever eaten.

- What was the first? - Vicky inquired cheekily.

- Your cooking - Pe'phriem said, his pupils dilating.

- Oh, please don't judge my cooking based on that malodorous swill I whipped up back on Kerision... You haven't tried my meat stew yet. I can guarantee you, you'll reevaluate your entire list - she smiled.

- Can you make some now? - Thomas looked at her with sparkling eyes.

- Not now, honey, we need to focus on the mission now. But I promise you I'll make you as much as you can eat as soon as we get back - she replied as she caressed his face.

At the Cathedral Square, Eserill, apparently already aware of the situation, rallied her guild beneath the gentle light of the Pale Lady, Azeroth's larger moon.

- Sorry, Essie, *someone's* newfound infatuation with a certain dairy product got in our way - Vicky shook her head.

- It's fine, auntie. Look, I brought them all - she replied quietly.

Vicaaryna assumed what she and many others in the Army called the 'officer stance' - standing with her legs slightly apart and crossing her behind her back over her hips - as she observed the motley crew of misfits that was the Underdogs. Eserill barely noticeably mimicked her, sneaking glances at her and correcting her own stance until it was nearly identical to that of the paladin. Vicaaryna was of a modest stature to say the least, but Eserill was even shorter than her, barely taller than your average dwarf. When their gazes met and they realised that they look like two blades of grass next to a forest, they both broke out laughing.

- Alright, enough fun. I need people who can handle a Legion-controlled world. People might die - Vicky said, her expression darkening.

- Leave it to me! - a voice exclaimed. A young man stepped forward from the crowd. He wore his long ginger hair in a ponytail, in his eye, a playful glow. - Celebrity Exorcist, Twilight Vanquisher, Devilsbane, at your service - he said as he bowed.

- Billy, just... Cease. Pretty please? - a red-haired woman walked out from the back with a sigh and stood next to him. - I apologise for my brother's antics. He was dropped on his head when he was born. If you want a proper warlock, bring me. Amanda Blake, at your service.

- Hey! - Billy yelled as shoved his sister.

- I'm bringing both of you - Vicaaryna said. - I feel like we need his chaotic energy so that we won't get bored, and your restraint to keep him in check.

- No, actually, he's not half bad and knows a fair bit about demons, but uh... His ego gets in his way a tad too often - she smirked.

- Oi, that's not true!

- If she's going, I'm going too - a calm, deep voice said. The voice belonged to a tall night elf with long, white hair. He slowly walked to the front and stood next to the Blake siblings. A large, spotted white cat quietly followed him.

- Seth, honey... You don't have to- - Amanda said.

- I was born for this. My people have had a millennia-long feud with the Legion. I'll settle the score once and for all - he said, his expression unflinching. - And I can't let my Candy have all the fun - he added with a smile.

- I- I'm going too! - a pandaren woman ran to the front. - Billy, you can't leave me! What if I'll never see you again?

- Li Li, honey, you can't...

- That's the joke you dum-dum! - she gently nudged Billy's shoulder, laughing. - Yes, I am blind. Any questions? - she smiled in Vicaaryna's general direction.

- Wow, that's one hell of a team - the paladin said after eyeing the four all over, then crossing her arms. - Anyone else?

- Hey, leave some for me, too! - Eserill interjected. - You're not the only one organising attacks against the Legion, auntie - she smiled.

- Alright, I believe that is enough. Let us get to know one another. We have one more day until we have to depart - Vicky nodded.

The four recruits, alongside Pe'phriem and Vicaaryna boarded the landing ship of the *Requiem*.

- Listen, everyone - the paladin started the briefing as everyone sat down. - We haven't much time until we need to depart, so make it count. Say your goodbyes and gather your equipment. We're going to war.

Pe'phriem raised his hand.

- Yes, Tommy? - Vicky said with a smile.

- What will *we* do?

- Oh, you know exactly what *we'll* be doing.

- Focus, runt... - Ny'thara's voice cut through the unforgiving blizzard that enveloped the arena. Pe'phriem was surrounded by images of his sister in her draenei form, each of them slowly walking towards him. She put on a dazzling display of her illusion skills as Thomas' final test; the speed at which she was casting her spells made it appear as if she had at least three pairs of arms - almost resembling a shivarra - that blurred with motion. Thomas cut through the snowstorm with a swift, curved fireball that sliced the air like a blade. He then blinked towards the Ny'thara he believed to be the "real" one, putting his fist through her chest.

The illusory draenei dissipated with a painful expression on its face.

Pe'phriem scoffed as he dodged the massive ice spike that almost impaled him through the spine; the *real one* was behind him. Vicaaryna bit her lips in anticipation. He turned around, casting a smaller bolt of fire in Ny'thara's general direction in frustration as he did. She blocked the attack with a single wave of her index and middle fingers, and tilted her head with a smile. She then conjured two sleek swords of ice and assumed a fighting pose.

Pe'phriem blinked behind her and punched her in the spine her with all his might, causing her to stumble forwards and almost drop her weapons. Thomas turned into his true form and unleashed a massive torrent of fire from where his mouth would have been, forcing Ny'thara to merge her swords together into a shield to defend against the attack. She started to involuntarily walk backwards from the force of the attack, her shield gradually melting. Pe'phriem suddenly stopped, making his sister fall forward. Before she could gather herself, Thomas struck her with a swift downwards strike, freezing her to the ground so tight that she couldn't find the strength in herself to blink away. He looked up.

- Well done, brother. Now let her go - Erhand yelled from the podium. - That's no way to treat a family member.

Pe'phriem looked down at the gasping draenei on the ground, then released the magic binding her there, shattering the ice, and wordlessly turned into his elf form.

- Can I go now? - he asked in an apathetic tone.

- Yes, you may leave. Stand by as I disable the illu-

- Don't bother. I can exit on my own - Pe'phriem said as he opened his eyes. He stood up from the grass and sprung up, making his way to Stormwind. Vicky's eyes popped open. She ran after him.

- Hey! Wait up! Tommy! What's the matter? - she asked with genuine worry in her voice as she caught up with the tenebre. - If I didn't know any better, I would think that you dislike Erhand...

- It's not *him* I dislike. It's the training - he replied bitterly. - It might sound out of character from *my kind*, but I wish not to learn anymore.

- Huh? What do you mean? -the paladin asked, struggling to keep up with him. - Hey, stop! - she yelled as she pounced the tenebre and pinned him to the ground.

- I... - he shook his head with a sigh. - The more I learn, the more nihilistic I become. What's the point of anything when you're basically a deity, wielding the power to do whatever you please to?

- Wow. Okay, I didn't expect you to go all existential on me - Vicky said with a smile. - I understand, but... Listen. There's more to life than you think. I'm fairly sure that at some point, your brother went through a phase similar to what you are feeling right now. Yet, he kept learning and look at him, he's 10.000-something years old and happily married with four children, I-

- Are you implying we should-

- NO, I was just... I... Ugh, nevermind... - she mumbled, blushing.

- I understand what you meant - he said, his lips slowly curling into a smile. - Thank you, Vicky... - he said as he embraced her, still laying on the ground, pulling her closer.

### Chapter 3: Into the Breach

The landing ship of the *Requiem* made its way to the massive flagship with the strike team on board. Vicky was staring out the window, Pe'phriem was sitting on a supply crate next to her, his feet tucked under his legs as he hugged his knees. The paladin caressed his hair with a smile. He smiled back. An authoritative, automated voice was heard.

- BOARDING THE FLAGSHIP IN T MINUS 10...

William tossed a healthstone up and caught it with his other hand, yawning. Li Li sat next to him in lotus pose, her eyes closed tightly.

- 7... 6...

Sethendris had finished polishing his rifle. The set of armour he brought for the mission was a bright green; he put on his helmet that resembled the skull of a strange, alien lifeform. His ancestors, the Silvandareth were bitter enemies of the Legion, and fought alongside the Kal'dorei during the War of the Ancients. This set of armour, a family heirloom of the Trueshot family, passed on from generation to generation, was crafted specifically to be completely impervious to the otherwise extremely corrosive blood of demons. Amanda was sleeping, curled on the bed, her ginger hair fluttering from her breath. Sethendris gently poked her side.

- 4... 3...

- Come, honey - Vicky said gently. - We're nearly there.

- 1... STABILISERS SECURED. STAND BY.

The bridge lowered into the landing bay. Tristan walked in to greet them.

- Welcome aboard, Exarch - he said as he saluted with a smile.

- At ease, soldier. I see you're feeling better - she said, crossing her arms.

- Affirmative. The High Representative went out of her way to assure my safety - he said as he nodded.

- Sweet light of the Naaru, *Trissie*, can you please stop with the formalities? You're worse than dad... - Netiiri said as she poked her head into the door frame, then walked in and leaned against a wall. Vicky snorted. Tristan blushed.

- Could you please refrain from calling me that? It's... Embarrassing...

- As you wish, *Trissie*...- she said with a cheeky grin before disappearing from sight.

- Alright, *Trissie*, show us around, will you? - Vicaaryna said, barely able to contain her laughter.

- Y- Yes, Exarch - the boy said, blushing deeply.

Tristan led the group through a brightly lit, crystalline hallway. Seven armoured draenei, three women and four men greeted them, saluting in unison.

-This will be your crew, Exarch: Gunner Dubhe - a strong, tall male cracked his knuckles. - Warp-Engineer Merak - a sly-looking, thinner male smiled at the Exarch. - Caregiver Phecda, your medic - a youthful female curtsied at Vicaaryna. - Communications Officer Megrez - a serious-looking male barely noticeably nodded - Demonologist Alioth - a wild-eyed female nodded fervently - Analyst Mizar - a bespectacled female slowly tilted her head downwards - and Technician Alkaid - a bearded male bowed his head.

- At ease, crew - Vicky said, beaming at her subordinates. She barely believed her own words. - I did it, dad... I did it! - she thought.

- Come along, Exarch. I'll show you to the command bridge - Tristan said.

- Oh, I've been there already... - Vicky said absently, almost singing. - Exarch Vicaaryna... - she mumbled as she skipped down the hall and entered the massive chamber.

- Greetings, Exarch. I am Navigator Polaris - a warm voice said. - It is a pleasure to meet you.

Vicky spun around. A bearded draenei stood in front of her.

- Yes, a pleasure to meet you as well... - the paladin's gaze wandered to the captain's seat. - May we depart now?

As the *Requiem* exited the Twisting Nether, planet Koshmaar appeared on the horizon. The war-torn world was veiled by a thick, green mist. Vicky took a deep breath.

- Alright everyone, form up. It's time.

The strike team boarded the landing ship and sat down, fastening their seatbelts. It launched towards its destination. As soon as it breached the atmosphere, it was shaken by a massive explosion.

- Shit! We're going down! Hold on! - Vicky yelled as she put on her filtration mask. The others followed suit.

The landing ship careened out of control. As it began losing altitude, another shot hit its side, boring a hole into it, tearing Amanda's seat clean out of the flooring.

- Mandy! - Sethendris yelled as he ripped out his seatbelt and jumped out after her.

- Shit, wait up! - William joined in, vaulting out of the same hole, deploying his trusty parachute.

- Billy, no, what is going on? - Li Li sprung up, breaking the socket of her seatbelt with a swift strike of her palm, and following the three.

- Ugh, we just *had* to bring the most volatile folks, didn't we? Tommy, stay with me. We'll wait it out - Vicaaryna said, tilting his head backwards, resting it against the wall. Pe'phriem nodded.

The ship went down with a loud explosion. Vicaaryna protected herself with a bubble of Light, while Thomas dispersed. As the two crawled out of the smouldering wreckage, they finally got to get a good look at the planet's landscape. It was a barren wasteland, with rivers of fel-infused molten rock weaving through the blackened soil. The atmosphere was thick with green vapours.

- Alright, let's go find the others. They can't be that far... - Vicky said.

They found all four at the same place, surrounded by felguards.

- Oh yeah? Take this, you wankers! - William exclaimed, reaching into his bag.

- Billy, for fuck's sake... - Amanda closed her eyes and hung her head.

William took out a smoke bomb and threw it on the ground with all his might. The cloud it produced concealed the four.

- Go! I'll hold them off! - William yelled.

In an instance, Vicaaryna's shield flew into the fray, hitting one demon after the other, cutting through the smoke, then returning to her hand.

- I... Huh. Well, thank you - Billy said with a laugh.

- This bloke has a gadget for every occasion, it's his gimmick - Amanda said, rolling her eyes. - Thanks for the timely rescue.

- We don't have time for this. Everyone, fall in. We have a war to win - the paladin replied sharply.

The six made their way to the designated rendezvous point. Exarch Neladethaar was there, waving at them with a smile.

- Glad you could make it, *Vicky* - he said.

- Since when did you start using my- Nevermind. Hi, uncle. Can I have a breakdown of the situation?

- There are four pit lords on this planet that we know of. Nedrah is taking care of one of them as we speak and my men are moving in on the second. Exarch Caliestes is en route to provide us air support, and... I have a surprise guest for you.

- Huh? Who? - the girl asked, putting her hands on her hips.

- Greetings, Captain.

### Chapter 4: An Ideal Tomorrow

- Deuteros? Oh, give me a break... Dehaart was too kind to you, wasn't he...

The former Vindicator raised an eyebrow.

- I won't even ask where you know *that* from. The point is, I'm back. As punishment for me falsely accusing you of treason, I was put in *your* Sector Army. I will serve with honor - he said, bowing his head.

- Okay, this is not Deuteros. In fact, I miss the old one. This is just wrong. What the fuck did the MP do to you?

- With all due respect, please do calm down, Exarch. I have simply seen the error of my ways - he said with a surprisingly honest-looking smile on his face.

- You're fooling nobody, Deuteros. In any case... What of the other two pit lords, uncle? - she asked, shifting her focus.

- The other *three* - he said with a smile. - Here, take a look.

The group gathered around a holographic representation of the battlefield, projected by a circular crystal pedestal in front of Nel. There were four green dots, two shining with an even, uninterrupted glow, one blinking and one slowly fading out. The latter two were surrounded by smaller, golden dots.

- See? That's the one Nedrah volunteered to take out, Zederog - he said pointing at the last dot. - This one is Tremendus, being taken out by the Fourth Division right now - he said, pointing at the blinking dot that soon started to fade out as well. - Ah, *now* it's two - he added, turning to Vicaaryna with a smile. - These two, Balagreth and Goddrah are yet to be dealt with.

- So it is best if we split up- - Seth said, but was interrupted by Vicaaryna.

- Whoa there, nope. We won't do that. Unless you want us to get picked off one by one. These are pit lords, not mere imps - she said sharply.

- Understood. Let's focus on one then - he said quietly. - Which one do you suppose is more dangerous, Exarch? - he said, looking at Neladethaar.

- Balagreth commands the surface-to-air artillery battery and has been preventing us from moving in reinforcements, so *I suppose* - he looked up at Seth with a warm expression. - he is our priority target.

- What are we waiting for, then? Let's send the tosser back into the darkness from whence it came! - William yelled.

- Sod off, Billy - Amanda said, rolling her eyes. - We need a proper plan before we do anything. What are we up against?

- Well, we ought to take out his ground defenses in order to silence those cannons, so that Lady Caliestes may move in to bomb Goddrah's stronghold to kingdom come. Then we can send in the infantry and cleanse this planet for good.

- Well, we better get a move on, then... I have urgent business back home - Li Li said with a sweet, naive smile. - Those dumplings won't cook themselves.

The cannons were surprisingly lightly guarded. The biggest threat came in the form of a few wandering doomguards that the group dispatched of with relative ease. Sethendris found himself a good sniping spot and provided suppressing fire for the others as they advanced. Li Li used her instincts to find the demons' weak spots and, despite her disability, was frighteningly fast at whittling down their numbers. William and Amanda took the flanks, incinerating and vaporising the felguards one by one. Meanwhile, Pe'phriem, Vicaaryna and Deuteros took the charge to the heart of the swarm, aiming to get to the cannons. The mo'arg gunners turned their fel cannons on the invaders. While devastating against aerial targets, these specialised weaoons were unwieldy and awkward against ground-based ones. Before they could even attempt to take a shot, Li Li jumped on top of one cannon and kicked one of the engineers in the forehead, ripping his head clean off. Sethendris took care of another with a well-aimed shot at the cannon's energy source, causing it to erupt into emerald flames. The rest were soon out of commission as well.

Pit Lord Balagreth proved to be a worthy enemy, however, as it took both William and Amanda quite a lot of energy to restrain him to allow Vicaaryna to run up his body and ember her sword into his skull, while Pe'phriem, Sethendris, Li Li and Deuteros held back his infantry troops.

As the annihilan's body lit up with green fire one final time before dying in a massive explosion that painted the stronghold's walls green with his blood, Vicaaryna reported to the command post.

- Air defense is down, proceed with the bombing maneuver. Vicaaryna, out - she said, a proud smile forming on her face.

- Copy that. I'll give the signal to Caliestes. Over and out - Neladethaar said through the commuicator.

A fleet of bombers flew overhead, bound for Goddrah's fortress. Vicaaryna sighed with relief as she heard the explosions ring out.

- Alright, we're done here, let's-

A barrage of fel bombs hit the ground, forcing the six to take cover in a trench.

- What WAS that? Uncle, come in! - Vicaaryna yelled into the communicator with a panicked frenzy.

- An entire fleet of Legion ships has been reported in the area. We're taking heavy casualties. Most of our landing ships have been taken out, but we have just about enough to take the remaining troops back to the flagship, however... I am unsure how I can rescue you and your team.

Deuteros grabbed the communicator.

- This is Deuteros. I have an idea. You need not worry, Exarch.

After a brief radio silence, Neladethaar spoke.

- Copy that. Over and out.

Vicky ripped the communicator out of the Marine's hand, after they crawled out of the cover and stood back up.

- I still do not trust you, but we need to take this chance. Alright, what is the plan? - she asked, putting her hands on her hips.

- We have two warlocks, no? Can they not-

- Our portals are one-way, Mr. Man - William interjected. - We can summon anything here, but teleportation? No sir.

Vicky raised an eyebrow at Deuteros.

- Alright... Thankfully, I have a plan B - he said, looking back at her. - During my way back, I was instructed in how these... Tenebrim work. And I believe they are capable of opening rifts, no?

- I... - Thomas stuttered.

- Well, can you? - Vicky asked, spreading her arms. - We don't really have time for this.

Another barrage of bombs fell, almost hitting the group. They were forced to lay back down. The "bombs" turned out to be a large troop of nascent infernals that awakened and began making their way towards the group.

- Please, please, just try to think about a portal... - Vicky said, grabbing his hand.

Pe'phriem nodded, then closed his eyes. Soon enough, a tear formed in the fabric of reality, revealing the mess hall of the *Requiem* on the other side. Vicaaryna's face lit up as she planted a kiss on his face.

- Please hurry... - Thomas said through gritted teeth. - It's taking all of my energy to sustain this...

- Move, everyone! - Deuteros yelled after smashing an infernal's skull in with his hammer. - Go, go, go! - He gestured towards the collapsing portal. - I'll hold them off.

As the last of his comrades left, the gateway destabilised and ceased to exist. A massive explosion shook the ground, sending debris flying in all directions. As the smoke cleared, Vicky saw Deuteros with his back to a rock formation, sitting in a puddle of his own blood. He smiled and saluted her one last time. She returned the gesture with a puzzled expression. Pe'phriem grabbed her by the waist, gave Deuteros an apprehensive nod and focused his energy once again to teleport them both to the *Requiem*.

## Volume 5: A Moment of Respite

### Chapter 2: A Grandfather's Pride

The white gates glimmered in the starlight as the two approached the Academy of the Light. Planet Valetroth was one of the only safe havens for the draenei all throughout the Great Dark Beyond, protected by four Sector Armies and several defensive wards so as to be impenetrable and nigh-invisible to Legion forces. Nearly the entire planet was covered in one big, contiguous metropolis, but the main would-be target and the reason the planet was so heavily guarded was the prestigious Academy of the Light, where members of the Army learned the arts of fencing, wielding the Light, piloting spaceships, and even the basics of military leadership. Pe'phriem marveled at the tall, crystalline buildings that reflected the rays of the nearby star.

- Is there cheese on this planet? - he asked cheekily.

- You're the cheese - Vicky said teasingly as she poked him in the side. - We'll eat later. For now, I want you to meet a few people.

As the two were preparing to enter the Academy, a stern-looking draenei, seemingly a guard, blocked their way.

- Halt. What business have you here? - he barked.

Vicaaryna straightened her back.

- I am Exarch Vicaaryna of the Forty-Second Sector Army and he's with me.

- I- My apologies milady - the guard promptly backed up.

- Now that's more like it. Now to meet my grandpa...