piggys-writing-blog

[piggys-writing-blog]

WoW Fiction - “The Deal” cnt’d.

Vermeadow adored parties. Mostly, she enjoyed them for the social aspect. It was a great opportunity to make connections and expand her list of friends, as well as a chance to catch up on the latest gossip. She was a rumor monger, and proud of it. She could often be seen standing in a corner with one or two of her friends, pointing out the folly of other elves: sharing a laugh over the atrocious dress one was wearing, or the fact that another had spilled some of their wine on their lap. It was all humorous to her. The failures of others, great and small, brought a sick sense of satisfaction to her. One could almost say it was what she lived for...and they would be right.

But tonight was a bit different than usual. This wasn’t some random’s party she either crashed or was cordially invited to--this was a birthday party for a family member of hers. One she was obligated--no, required to go to. One she would rather be anywhere else than attend. It was not nearly as fun as any other party in the entire universe would be. For one thing, the vast majority of the guests were family members--and everyone and their pet wisp knew how she felt about her family. And whoever wasn’t her family--

--were the Wildmane Siblings. 

A heavy scowl weighed on her face as she watched them arrive, arm in arm. The rogue looked as shady as ever, with his barely-shaved face and overall rugged appearance. What her twin saw in him, she would never understand. He seemed so dirty, so simple-minded. What in the world was a common thief such as him doing at this middle-class party? Perhaps her father had given him a free pass because of their history. She shook her head in distaste.

And the sister...the hunter. Vermeadow slid her gaze over to the vibrant, emerald head of hair, nearly matching in height with her brother. Sturdy, but still a bit slim, she seemed cleaner than the rogue; a little sharper...but not by much. 

Vermeadow could see the faraway look in her eyes. There was something troubling her, something she couldn’t figure out. Pitiful. 

She took a sip of her drink; the third one she’d had. According to the rules of the party, it should have been her last. But she had no plans to abide by anyone’s rules, let alone when it came to wine. She fully intended to have more. She felt a small buzz at the back of her head, one she had grown accustomed to. One she had come to need quite regularly, as if she couldn’t function without it. Some might call it an addiction, but she wouldn’t go that far. It was more like a helpful boost. 

Her eyes remained locked on the newcomers, judging them every second they stood there. She wondered when they would leave. The hunter’s gaze flitted around the establishment as if in search of something--or someone. Vermeadow fleetingly wondered who or what, and her question was quickly answered as their eyes locked. Talondressa was looking straight at her. 

‘Why is she staring at me?’ Vermeadow quietly wondered in disgust, diverting her eyes and taking another hard gulp of the arcwine. ‘What a dunce.’

Before the disgruntled arcanist-in-training even had time to react or attempt to leave, the hunter was making her way over. Weaving through the crowds of people, her eyes wandering about in a wary manner, as if she was hoping no one would see her, or see where she was headed. Vermeadow nearly choked on her drink when she put two and two together. Talondressa was coming to see her. But what would she want with her? 

Panic began to rise in her chest. She had fully intended to survive this gathering by talking to no one, ideally, or at the very least, those she was absolutely required to acknowledge...like Lianthorn. But not anyone else. Not this girl, especially. She had to escape; avoid this situation if at all possible. But time was very quickly escaping the mage. In mere moments, she would be close enough that she could clearly be heard if she were to speak...a distance where it would be awkward, and rude, to simply turn and leave. The window wherein she could escape was rapidly disappearing.

With haste, and no tact whatsoever, she whirled around and began to march in the opposite direction, her back turned to the incoming woman. She took a single step, but it was too late.

“Vermeadow! Wait!” she heard Talondressa call after her, clear as a bell.

Her shoulders stiffened, her lips pressing into a thin line. Turn back around, Vermeadow, she told herself defeatedly. You've lost.

Behind her, the emerald head stopped, resting her weight on her knees momentarily to catch her breath. Vermeadow resisted the urge to clench her fists, not wishing to show any sort of reaction to the other woman. Her heart was racing as it was; try as she might, she could not come up with a solution but to stand there and converse with Talondressa. It was simply an impossible situation. 

“Thank you, Ver,” Talon said to her after a moment, dropping her nickname out of familiarity. It stung the mage, who finally bolstered up the courage to turn on her heel and face the other. 

A joyless smile was slapped on her face, one formed of pure spite and vitriol. “Can I help you with something?” she asked tightly, batting her eyes lazily. 

Talon cleared her throat, shifting uncomfortably. Her voice lowered as she replied. 

“Perhaps, but...can we discuss this somewhere else?”

“Surely, there’s no need to seclude ourselves in order to hold a casual conversation,” Vermeadow answered her in a normal, though perhaps slightly loud, tone. 

The huntress stiffened and lowered her gaze in what seemed to be fear.

“Vermeadow, please,” she muttered between her teeth. “It’s important.”

“And just why would it be important to me?” Vermeadow snapped back. 

“Because it’s something you and I both want.”

The arcanist stared her down coldly for a while. What could Talondressa possibly know about her own desires? It was true that they had known each other for several hundred years, but they hadn’t been close for many of them. That the huntress would insinuate understanding Vermeadow filled her with proud rage. She opened her mouth to retort, to finally cut off the conversation and leave, when Talondressa stopped her. 

“You hate your sister, don’t you?”

Those six words froze the mage in a shell-shocked reverie. Her gut felt as if it had been swiftly punched. It was not something she had ever professed to feeling; she’d barely even acknowledged it within herself. She held a deep resentment for her family, but never had she considered some of it might be directed at her twin, as well. Her face hardened as she thought it through. 

Finally, she met eyes with huntress. Reading her face, she tried to get a sense of what she was playing at without even asking. She was almost afraid to. Her previous fury at being judged was gone, for as it turned out, she had been judged correctly. 

Nodding, the huntress continued in the same hushed tone. “Well...I need her gone. And I’m willing to do whatever you ask to convince you.”

Startled, Vermeadow replied before she could even think. “I thought you two were best friends,” she said incredulously. 

“Well...we were. But now she’s trying to take Tenderis away.”

Vermeadow had to hold back from snorting in amusement. “How so?” she asked instead, her voice steady. 

Talon took a step closer in a mysterious, secretive manner and lowered her voice to a whisper the mage had to strain to hear.

“She plans to marry him.”

This time, Vermeadow couldn’t hold back her laughter, though she stifled it some. She covered her mouth daintily as quiet, amused giggles erupted from her chest. Talon narrowed her eyes. 

“It’s not funny,” she insisted crossly. “This is serious. I’m never going to get my brother back from her if she marries him. We have to do something!”

Vermeadow was gaining a whole new perspective on the situation now. Talondressa was just a whiny child, completely unaware of how things worked in the world, and too absorbed in herself to realize that this marriage might actually make her brother happy. As sorry as she was to say, Vermeadow had always expected a union between her twin sister and the rogue. Distasteful and bland she had always thought him, but at the end of the day, he was a decent man. The fact that she would stoop so low as to come to her and ask for help in disposing of Saellennia….well. It was laughable, as Vermeadow was clearly displaying. But a small part of her was growing curious. Talon had mentioned that she would do anything for it to happen. Did she really mean anything? 

Perhaps, Vermeadow thought, it would be worth it to test. 

“So, you want me to get rid of her,” Vermeadow began, calming down from her fit. “How exactly do you want her to be taken care of…?” The mage paused, testing the huntress purely out of curiosity. Just how far would she go for what she wanted? “Do you want me to kill her?”

Talon blinked wildly at her, taking several seconds to formulate an answer. “Kill--? No--I mean--that’s a little bit harsh, no?” She frowned pensively and thought some more. 

Vermeadow watched silently, a smirk desperate to spread across her face. 

“I-I mean...I’m not going to ask you to kill her,” Talon continued a few moments later, “but if you were to...I don’t know...poison her or something…,” she swallowed thickly, clearly terrified of the words coming out of her mouth presently. But she said them, nonetheless. “I wouldn’t necessarily object. But I won’t directly ask that of you, no.” She shook her head and her hair trembled and flowed down her back like a jade waterfall. All was perceived astutely by the mage. “Just...take her away. I never want to see her again.” 

Vermeadow chuckled and shook her head. “And what do you have to offer me?” The whole idea was ridiculous. Where she would take her sister, she hadn’t the faintest idea. She wasn’t exactly keen on homicide; it wasn’t tasteful or classy. It was disgusting, really. She preferred a more...subtle approach. And if there was something in it for her, she certainly wouldn’t object outright.

The huntress bit her lip slightly, seeming nervous to offer her ideas. But out they came. “I know you love arcwine…,”

An intrigued eyebrow was raised. “Go on.”

“And...I mean…,” she fiddled with her hands a bit. “Money…?”

“Ha!” the mage laughed out loud. “Everyone wants money. And not just a small amount, either. I’ve known you quite a while--too long to believe you could possibly come up with enough money to--”

“I’ll get it. However much you want. I’ll secure it. Just name a price.” 

Both eyebrows were raised, this time. A surprised smile grew faintly on her lips. 

“Any price?” Vermeadow questioned. 

“Any.” The huntress nodded confidently. 

‘This will prove interesting,’ Vermeadow thought to herself. She pondered for a few moments before she got an idea. 

“Well then, Wildmane,” she began. “My father has a very secret stash of money in his room. It’s in a safe sealed with arcane magic. You do know how to use arcane, don’t you?” 

“Yes,” Talon blurted out. Vermeadow did not believe her for a second.

“Good.” She carried on, regardless. “It’s a simple spell, really. He thinks he has everyone fooled. Anyways. There are also several bottles of arcwine stored in the cellar below. Also sealed with an arcane spell, which I’m sure you can take care of just fine.”

Talon gulped. 

“I’m not sure exactly how much is in my father’s gold stash...but whatever there is, I want exactly half, and no less than that. As for the wine, I demand three of the oldest bottles you can find. Bring those to me and I will take care of my sister for you. Do we have a deal?” 

The ball was in Talon’s court now. Would the half-witted girl actually accept the offer? Would she really go through the trouble of paying Vermeadow to be rid of Saellennia? Part of her hoped so. She figured it would be nice to get some action.

The huntress thought and thought, her face hardened in consideration. She seemed to be struggling, but what with? Morality? Values? The bond of friendship she shared with Vermeadow’s twin? 

‘Please,’ Vermeadow mentally scoffed in disdain, drumming her fingers against her wine glass boredly. ‘Those have already been tossed out the window if you’re standing here now.’ 

Talon seemed to understand that, for she suddenly straightened and lifted her gaze to meet evenly with the mage’s. All the previous uncertainty she’d had written on her face was gone. 

“We have a deal,” she said confidently, nodding her head once. And before Vermeadow could utter another word, she was gone.  

The amused mage lifted the glass to her lips once more and waited to see how things would pan out.

-

[ part 2 of 2 ] part 1: [x]

[piggys-writing-blog]

WoW Fiction -- “The Deal”

[Based on an rp; set a few days before The Sundering]

The Silverspear Grounds were beautiful as usual; spacious and neat, with a beautiful garden in the center of the many buildings that made up the property. The one in the back, where the head of the family lived, was especially large—not when placed in comparison to those of Suramar, of course. These were just outside the city borders, and comprised a medium sized estate. Modest, but still gorgeous. 

The garden in the center was where most social events took place, much like the one the Wildmane siblings would find themselves at upon arriving. There were stone paths that connected and turned off in several directions, with many wondrous plants and trees to fill the space between. Glowing, colored lights had been strung up all around them, and as the evening slowly darkened into night, the party grew more alive, buzzing with quiet murmurs of family members chatting amongst themselves, and the occasional giggle of a few small children as they ran about the garden. 

Everyone had gathered at the Silverspear Estate to celebrate the birthday of family head Fallinros Silverspear's first and closest cousin, Lianthorn Silverspear. It would be one of two, for the birthday boy was quite the ladies' man, and insisted on having a more...mature-themed party later. But for now, it was the family event, where everyone was allowed up to three glasses of arcwine, and clothes needed to remain completely on. A bit drab for Lianthorn's taste, perhaps, but nonetheless, he adored his humongous family and indulged his older cousin by happily attending this get-together in his honor. Talondressa knew of the event, but wasn't sure if Tenderis did. 

Regardless, it still fell on a day when they would typically visit the Silverspears anyways, so there they were. As close as they were to Fallinros' daughter, and Fallinros, himself, they were pretty much considered family, anyways. Which would explain the huge grin on his face when he saw the two approach. He politely excused himself from his conversation and swept up two glasses as the servant passed by, practically floating over to the siblings. His voice was big and booming and full of cheer as he greeted them...loud enough for the entire party to hear. 

“Tenderis! Talondressa! You've arrived!” He stopped in front of them and handed them each a glass, encouraging them to drink up. He was tall, as any other elf would be, with long, flowing hair of a blueish, silver tint--gray, but still shimmering. His jaw was broad and strong, much like his stature, and his eyes glowed with  such warmth, the likes of which Talondressa had never seen until she'd met him. He radiated light and joy; so much that he could undoubtedly light up the whole garden by himself. “How lovely to see you! I'm sure Lianthorn will be pleased to know you came out for his birthday!” 

Talondressa, having grown accustomed to Fallinros' exuberant nature, was hardly fazed as she took the glass politely. She would not drink it, for she knew all too well the consequences of indulging in such a drink. She had to live with them. Instead, she flashed a warm smile at the man who was like an uncle to her, and gave him a polite bow. “It's good to see you, too,” she said to him after giving the formal greeting. 

Tenderis, her older brother, had always been a man of few words and fewer parties. He had not spoken much with any of the Silverspears, save Vermeadow and Saellennia, of course. The proclivities and extravagance of the rest of the family had not interested him in particular. Strangely enough, of all the people he kept tabs on in Suramar, House Silverspear was not one of them. He trusted the members of the house, perhaps to his downfall, as he never kept track of events like this. As such, this elaborate setting would prove the slightest bit intimidating to him, especially considering the reason he’d even decided to attend--the discussion of permanently mating with Fallinros’ daughter. Indeed, it seemed strange, as he practically felt like a brother to Sællennía. Still, he kept about him his calm demeanor, carefully concealing his training weapons as Fallinros approached. His low and sagely voice replied to the night elf, “Elune-Adore. I trust you are well?” It was a much more pointed response from Tenderis than usual...though his emotions typically were fairly level. 

“Splendid, as always,” Fallinros cheerily replied with a nod and a wide sweep of his hand as he gestured to the glowing garden around them. “Have you seen this? The servants really outdid themselves this time! Absolutely beautiful, isn't it!” His grin was brighter than the Nightwell itself. 

“Yes….very beautiful, indeed,” Talondressa agreed enthusiastically as she took it all in. “I'm sure your dear cousin Lianthorn enjoys it, as well.” 

At Talon's mention of his cousin, Fallinros’ eyes gleamed with excitement. “Why, yes! As a matter of fact--Tenderis,” he said, turning to Talon’s brother, “I've been meaning to introduce the two of you! I know how lonely it can get sometimes, and, you know--” he leaned in a little close, cupping one side of his mouth as if to shield his words from Talon as he muttered, “--being around your sister so much must get a little exhausting, bless her heart,” he chuckled heartily and moved back once more, flashing Talon an apologetic smile before finishing his point. “I thought you would enjoy the company of someone...ehh…,” he waved his hands about as he tried to get the right wording in his mind. “...a bit more on your side of things, hmm?” 

Talondressa had zoned out halfway through, after Fallinros had directed his attention elsewhere; she, too, was focused somewhere else. Her eyes were madly searching for someone in particular...a very specific head of amethyst hair. It took a little while, but at last, she located it. She wasn't sure if the person had made it tonight...but they had. It seemed almost too good to be true. Quietly, she excused herself from the conversation that she was no longer a part of and weaved her way through the crowds of nobles, towards one very important Kaldorei.

_

[ part 1 of 2 ] part 2: [x]

[piggys-writing-blog]

WoW Fiction- “The Night Before”

It was late at night, when the world was still and slow. The midnight sky was dark and vast; little specks of innocent light dotting its black expanse. One bright light hung above, pouring its silvery rays onto the land below. Many believed that light was sacred and pure. They worshipped it and called upon its power to augment their own. Talondressa used to be one of them.

Now, however, she stood on the balcony staring out at this sky, her arms folded and leaned against the metal railing. The only thing keeping her from jumping to her death. What would be the use, anyways? She would just come back afterwards. So there she stayed; several hundred, maybe even a thousand feet above ground, taking in what she could of the ebon night. If she focused, she could make out the faint energy of the stars. But the moon...there was no denying its power. Gentle and frigid, yes; but also strong. Thriving. Pulsing. The Moon Goddess she once served was still just as luminous and breathtaking as she had always been. The man she now served paled in comparison to her--she knew that well.

Regardless, she would always be indebted to Illidan. Nothing she could ever do would be enough to fully remunerate him. Many called him The Betrayer. A heretic. A criminal. He committed many crimes against the Night Elves, yes. But Talondressa, the others--they knew the truth. They knew the reasons behind their master’s seemingly ill-meant behavior. He was the only one out of them all who would even take action. Nothing would have changed; hell, most of the elves would not be alive now if it weren’t for him. His followers knew that. That’s why they served him. Because they knew they could unquestionably rely on him to follow through, unlike anyone else. He alone could and would change things. Born with amber eyes, Illidan Stormrage had always been destined for greatness. And here he was even now, after everything, still doing his damndest to make things right. Talondressa admired him so for this.

But it was more than that to her. Not only did he save the Night Elf race as a whole; she felt he had also saved her, personally. He’d dragged her out of the hopeless and desolate abyss she’d found herself in--that everyone found themselves in. He told her, and many others, to get up and brush herself off, and learn to fight for what needed to be fought for: Azeroth’s safety, and that of its inhabitants, great and small. Even after being labelled a criminal and a betrayer, and called a monster by the woman he loved after being rejected by her as well, his grand plan at the end of the day had never changed. Protect Azeroth, no matter the cost. After Talondressa lost her entire family and everyone she held dear, she felt as though her entire purpose for being alive had slipped away, too. But Illidan gave her a new purpose. And she became one of his Illidari.

With all this in mind, Talondressa had begun to wander the castle in silence. By now, she had ventured from her chambers and up the many tall, wide staircases of the Black Temple. Up she climbed, lost in her thoughts and worries. Visions of the past filtered through them, and she sent them away without a care. Those were old and irrelevant now. She held her head high and reminded herself of her ultimate goals: protecting her home, and obeying her master. It was all that mattered now.

Eventually she found herself at the very top of the citadel, the sky open and endless above her. The many torches were lit and blazing brightly, guiding her way across the large roof before her. She wondered why she had ended up there, but didn’t think much of it. That is, until she was suddenly overwhelmed by the presence of another. She stopped dead in her tracks, eyeing the dark, shadowed blob a few hundred feet away from where she stood. The silhouette was difficult to make out, but after focusing her gaze a bit harder, she was able to recognize the energy signature. The swirling emerald power radiating off of the figure was so great and terrifying, it sent a shiver through her. It was her master. The demon within her quietly chuckled to itself.

Still afraid of him, are we? it taunted her. She ignored it. Squaring her shoulders, she took step after step towards him in a cautious but precise manner. If he were to send her away, she would not argue. But perhaps...perhaps he wouldn’t mind some company? Never had he laid a hand against one of his Illidari, despite being rather rough with the demons and the Broken Draenei. He was strong and very powerful, and was definitely not a pushover. But he never used force unnecessarily. So, though her demon was technically correct in its musing, she wasn’t truly afraid of him. Just...extremely intimidated.

“Did you want something?” came Illidan’s inquiry, all of a sudden.

Talondressa stiffened with a small gasp. She immediately dropped to her knees, unable to remain standing in his presence. “S-sir,” she stammered, “I was just wandering the halls unable to sleep, and I happened upon you by accident. If you would like me to leave, I will not hesitate to do so.” She squeezed her eyes shut, grimacing as she waited for him to send her away.

Alright, so she was afraid of him.

The Illidari Master was silent for a moment, and Talondressa was unable to see his reaction, for her head was bowed.

“...what gave you the impression that I would ask you to leave?” he then asked, in an almost confused tone.

Talondressa slowly looked up at him, shock evident on her face. “I-I was afraid I might have disturbed you.”

“Then why did you approach me in the first place?” inquired her master, smirking.

The younger Illidari’s mouth opened and snapped shut again like a hungry fish. He definitely had a point. Her cheeks began to heat up and she hung her head in shame. “I’m sorry,” she whispered, embarrassed.

A single, soft chuckle left him. Though it sounded more like a scoff, it was truly the closest thing to a laugh that she had ever heard come out of his mouth. Her eyes widened.

“Well, I won’t send you away, for now. Getting lost in my thoughts isn’t exactly something I enjoy. It’ll be nice to have a distraction, even if only for a moment.” The shifting of fabrics and the plop of a massive body setting itself upon the cold stone was heard. Illidan had sat down. Talondressa gazed at him again in confusion and gratitude as he patted the spot beside him once. With that, he turned his gaze to the sky and said nothing more.

Elated, the younger Illidari shuffled her way over to him, resting her own body upon the spot which he had indicated. It was so strange to be sitting beside him, as if they were equals. Her heart swelled and roared in excitement and uncontained emotions as so many things to say came to mind. She’d always had so much to tell him, to thank him for. There just weren’t enough words in the world.

None of this was spoken aloud, however, for she did not know if Illidan would want to hear them...or if he would even accept them. She kept it to herself once more, nearly exploding from the catastrophical amount of sentiments that were forced to remain within her.

Digging her nails into her palms, she tried and miserably failed to keep the tears in. Ah, yes. The tears. Sure, she had become one of the fiercest demon hunters around, and had lost or at the very least dulled most of her sensitivity to death and murder and the like--but that did not mean she didn’t cry over everything from seeing a cute rabbit in the forest to sitting beside the person she adored and respected most in the entire world. Blood trickled down her wrists; she had forgotten that her nails were now claws. Hundreds of years she’d spent harboring a large portion of a demon soul within her, and still she continued to forget that she also took on some of its physical features. She quickly hid her palms from view and took a breath, calming her tears as quietly as physically possible.

“Sometimes I envy those who can still express their emotions in such a manner,” Illidan mumbled suddenly, causing Talondressa to jump.

“Wh-what do you mean?” she asked him, bewildered, hastily rubbing her eyes with the backs of her hands to erase any evidence of tears. She was sure there was no way he had actually seen her.

Her master turned his head and gazed down at her. “You. You’re crying.” He nodded once at her.

She simply stared at him in shock.

A sad smile played on his lips. It was so faint, it was barely even there. He let out a sigh and shook his head. Talondressa could tell he was troubled. She wondered if he would tell her or not. He seemed to be attempting to formulate words in his head, but nothing else came from him. He was silent. Eventually, he looked back up at the stars again, wordless.

Talondressa’s shoulders drooped. But it was at that moment when she caught sight of what was in his hand. It was a skull. Focusing harder, she was able to deduce that it was an Orc skull, or at least looked it. The Master looked down at it then, another sigh leaving him. His shoulders sank, too. Talondressa was extremely curious now. She decided to say something else, hoping it would eventually lead him to explaining what he’d meant by his previous statement.

“I was crying because...well, I’m grateful to you,” she said simply. “You’re my master and yet...here I am, sitting beside you.”

Illidan grunted. “Indeed, I am your master, but that does not mean you are not allowed to occupy the same space as I.” He glanced at her apathetically.

Talondressa felt herself smile at that. “Well, I’m grateful. I--we owe you so much, Lord Illidan. Our lives.”

Another grunt. He shook his head. “I’m just trying to make a real change in a world full of people too self-absorbed to do the same. You, and the rest of my Illidari, are the special few who followed me on this path because you share my ideals.”

Talondressa nodded. He was just being modest, but none of it was untrue.

Illidan took a small breath, hesitant before he finally went on. “...and...you know,” he took a moment to pause. “I’m...grateful to you, too. To all of you. Without you, I….” he trailed off, his eyes finding those stars again. Nothing more was said on the matter.

Still, just hearing those words from Illidan was enough to send her over the edge again, tears flowing endlessly from her fel-burned eyes. Her shoulders shook gently from the strain of trying to keep silent. She was embarrassed at herself for crying in front of him not once, but twice. She hoped at least this time he wouldn’t--

“You’re crying again,” Illidan noted, a hint of amusement coloring his voice. He hadn’t even moved.

“Gah,” Talondressa choked, a small sob leaving her. “I’m sorry.” Her words were barely audible.

Illidan heard them. He shook his head and stared at the faint power radiating off of the distant stars. “You’d better not cry like that tomorrow when you launch your assault on Mardum. Am I understood?”

“Y-yes sir,” Talondressa managed to say between sobs. She was hugging her knees now.

Illidan would offer her no comfort save for his presence, and a gentle smile that she would never see. “Good.”

[piggys-writing-blog]

WoW Fiction -- Talondressa and her Feelings

Kinship. Trust. Respect. Love. A few things Talondressa hadn't experienced in ages—she hadn't allowed herself to. Too much pain had come from them in the past...she knew better. She'd already lost everything—for good—because she'd felt those things. So she made a vow to herself: “I will never love, or expect someone to love me.” It was for the best. Nothing like that would ever happen again.

But there she stood, before her Illidari. Despite everything she'd promised herself, every silent reassurance that this would never happen—she felt as though she could cry...cry from the kinship, the trust, the respect...and even the love she felt so strongly in her heart as Kayn honored her before all of them. Named her “Slayer.” Praised her for her wonderful deeds and for leading them with conviction and strength. Every day she'd worried nearly to death that she wasn't doing anything right. But it was all for naught, and she knew that now. It made her so...happy for the first time in a long time. If only Illidan could see her now...maybe, she thought, he would be happy too.

In that soft moment, a dark shadow began to hover over her mind, erasing it all. Agonizing pangs shot through her as she was swiftly reminded of her faults, her shortcomings. Those who left her. Xailaraa. Lucidian. Probably the two most precious people in her life, aside from her brother...gone in an instant. Her child...his life was over in the shortest of moments, as the person Talondressa hated more than anything—even more than the Legion itself—cast her off the highest place she could, sending her down carelessly and watching in satisfaction as she landed lifelessly below. Saellawyn...Talon knew if she ever saw her again, her blades would find her throat and reave it apart without a second thought. The very notion sent a shiver of rage through her, causing her to flinch. Back into reality she came tumbling, suddenly aware of the sounds of applause and whistling from her underlings. Even the Shivarra Mother clapped once or twice. Talondressa immediately plastered a gracious smile onto her face and gave a polite bow. The attention was nice, though the good feelings were quite short-lived.

Once the announcement was over and she was free to go, she nearly sprinted to the upper balcony to get some air. Through it all, she'd barely noticed Sin'drai's haughty chuckle echo within her ears...taunting her. How weak and patethic Talon was...still obsessed with those long gone, hell-bent on revenge for having her precious lover stolen from her by some slut, bitter over an unborn child barely older than 3 months—

“Shut up,” Talon seethed at the demon, her fists curling tightly as she moved to the very corner of the balcony for some privacy. She let out a tired breath and leaned against the railing, staring down at the vast, fel-corrupted expanse of Marduum. Her heart had been irrevocably destroyed; it was a fact. The only thing that kept her going day by day was the Legion...the need to defeat it. The need to please Illidan...to honor him. Aside from that, there was nothing left for her. Many, many times, she had considered offing herself and just waiting in the Twisting Nether...going to Illidan, or letting herself get captured by the Legion, whichever happened first. But the Illidari needed her. She was left in charge...she needed to see it through to the end. It was her duty. To Illidan, and to Azeroth. Not that she cared much for the latter.

“Talondressa?” came a gentle, yet grumbling and confident voice. It belonged to a man. The softness of it did little to startle Talon outwardly, though she was quite surprised that someone had come to see her. She slowly turned to the one who had spoken, glancing apprehensively at his energy before addressing him...it was Jace.

“Ah. Jace,” she said cordially with a nod. “What brings you here?”

The Illidari gave a small smile in return. “I just...couldn't help but notice you, all alone in this corner here. You seem troubled.”

The Slayer eyed him. “Not in the least,” was her reply. “I was just thinking we ought to redecorate the place one day.” She gestured down to the planet below.

Jace let out a small, belated laugh after peering down at Marduum. “Right...of course. I guess it could use a bit of sprucing.” He chuckled once more before giving her a more serious look. “Something must be upsetting you, Captain,” he insisted, pausing a moment. “...your hands,” he said at last, pointing at them.

Confused, Talon peered down at them and abruptly became aware of the stinging pain she felt in her palms. A small gasp and a hiss left her as she slowly uncurled her fingers, revealing four blood-smeared dents beneath them. She'd once again underestimated the length of her fingernails....

“I—uh,” Talon mumbled sheepishly, quickly hiding her hands from view. She wiped them on her legs and attempted to come up with a viable excuse. “I was, um. Just—you know, my hands, they were...they were itchy. And my nails—damn, my nails are long,” she said with a nervous laugh, “so I guess I just scratched too hard.” She huffed and turned away from the Illidari, aware that he knew better. It was apparent from the smirk plastered on his dumb face.

Jace knew what was going on. He was a smart man. Taking a few moments to sort his thoughts, he leaned one arm against the railing and let out a silent puff of air. “Captain,” he began, “you are aware that I am one of your champions, correct?”

The Slayer side-eyed him confusedly, her flustered tone long gone as she spoke. “Obviously. I recruited you not ten minutes ago.”

“Quite,” Jace nodded in agreement. “That means you have my utmost respect. I believe in you, because you've never let us down. You're an excellent leader and a fine Demon Hunter.”

“Thank you, but I've had enough flattery for one day,” Talon cut in sharply, not even looking at him now. Hearing it all over again made her feel uncomfortable. He had to be lying, anyways. She was an awful captain and everyone knew it.

Jace, however, was patient, and kept his voice calm and level. “Along with all those things, there's something else.” He closed his eyes only for a moment, preparing himself. Then he stared at her unwaveringly. “I also care about you, Captain. Very deeply.” He gave her a moment to process.

Talon merely stared down at the planet below and said nothing.

Jace pressed on. “If something is bothering you in any way—by all means, let me know. I want to help. Or at least listen....” A sigh left him as he turned, facing the same direction as Talon with both arms against the railing. Only, he looked straight ahead into the fel-lit sky. “The others may not have the time, because the most important thing is to defeat the Legion. It's been this way as long as most of us have been alive.... But I know that you are also a person. A person with a history, and a past.” He looked at her again, his gaze soft and curious. “Often, I wonder if that's what bothers you so.” Turning his gaze back to the open sky, he continued, “Now that I have been recruited as one of your special champions, it means I am directly beneath you. You are my captain. Well,” he added with a small laugh, “you always have been, but now it's official. So because of this, I want you to know that I am here for you to—“

“Stop. That's enough.” Talon's ice-cold words sliced through the air between them like shards of hateful glass. Her fists were curled once more, her nails digging deep into the new wounds she'd just gained. Deepening them. The sting was nothing compared to the empty ache in her heart. Jace's words were like sandpaper against newly-seared flesh to her. She had just reiterated to herself—merely moments ago—that she was not going to allow herself to feel those things again. Not ever. And there he was, trying to force her back into it once more. She felt the terror she'd once known course through her, her heart beating against her ribcage like a feral animal. She could hear her pulse thudding ceaselessly, like the steady drumbeat of impending doom. The world around her began to spin, slowly. This was it. She felt herself slowly slip away, her vision fading, as with the rest of her senses...one by one...until darkness and silence overcame her. Then, there was nothing.

-----

When Talon finally came to, it was very brokenly. Her vision came first, and then hearing...but for a few moments, they were out of sync. Through her weakened, fel-burned eyes she could make out the shape of someone's face...and moments later, their desperate voice as they spoke her name.

“Captain Talondressa?...Captain?...Are you...coming back...?”

Gradually, her eyesight returned fully, and her eyes opened wide. She stared directly in the face of Jace Darkweaver, watching his lips move long before the sound of his voice met with her ears. Fascinating.

“Captain!...You're awake!...Thank Elune!...How are...you feeling?”

The two came together eventually, and Talon didn't dare utter a word until they did. Time seemed to shift back into place and flow naturally once more. Once she felt it return, she quietly pushed herself up to sitting.

Jace's hands flew to her immediately and a panicked, “No no no!” came from his lips. He gently pushed her back down, and she merely stared at him. “You shouldn't sit up yet, you had a concussion, and you might faint again. If you do, then who knows when you'll wake up again....”

“Perfect,” Talon muttered, sitting up again as quickly as she could once Jace removed his hands. Immediately the entire room flopped onto its side and back again, tumbling around her and carrying her along. She nearly vomited from the wave of nausea that hit her then, but as much as she had hoped to, she did not black out again. A pained groan left her as she clutched her head in her hands, squeezing her eyes shut. “Damn it....”

“Oi!” Jace had yelped at her when she shot up once more, gripping her shoulders to keep her steady. He shook his head in disbelief at her. “You want to black out again that badly?”

“Yeah, kind of,” Talondressa replied irritably. She lowered herself back again with a grumble and stared up at the ceiling. The room was silent for quite a while before Jace finally spoke up.

“I'm sorry, Captain,” he said quietly. “I feel terrible. I didn't mean for this to happen....”

“Why do you even care?” the ever-stoic Talondressa replied, a sliver of hostility coloring her tone.

Jace took a deep breath and obliged her by explaining. “For a long time, since the day you showed up at Lord Illidan's door, I've watched you in admiration. It may not have seemed it, and there were times when I wasn't even around...but when I was, you were always on my mind. Why? Because you seemed so strong. So capable. I knew from the moment I saw you, that you were a born leader. That you would gain respect from us and from Lord Illidan. And I was right.

“Moreover, I saw something in you that made my heart ache. Something deep and painful—something that can never be forgotten. Loss. You look to me like someone who has lost everything, and is barely holding on. And it hurts to see that. It hurts to see a woman as respectable and strong as you weighed down by those things. You just deserve better. Whatever may have happened to you, you didn't deserve it. And I want to right the wrongs that were done to you, because no one else seems to be willing to. I want to do that for you.”

By now, Talondressa's eyes were overflowing with silent tears that merely slid down the sides of her face. She stared quietly, angrily at the ceiling, desperately holding back the sobs threatening to escape. He was right. And she hated it.

“Why,” she began to ask very softly, and was horrified when her voice was weak and unstable. Clearing her throat and hastily wiping away those pesky tears, she tried again with a more confident tone. “Why would you even want to do that for me? You don't know me. I never did anything directly for you that would warrant some sort of repayment like this. I don't need it. I don't want it.” Even as she said it, her mouth nearly froze from having to form such nasty, untrue words. “So don't worry about it. I'm fine on my own, loss or not.” She folded her arms across her chest and turned her head away from him, trying to show him that she was done having the conversation. In spite of herself, however, part of her wished he would continue anyways.

He did. “I may not know you, not completely. Not inside and out...not yet. But I know what you're capable of, and what you do for someone you respect and love. You love Illidan; you respect him, and you refuse to let him down, even when the odds are stacked high against you. You're incredible and determined, and you lead us well. I have so much respect for you, Captain...and love.” He quieted his tone at the last two words, almost sounding bashful as he uttered them.

Talondressa slowly turned her head towards him, finally staring at him. More fresh tears had replaced the old ones, and her lower lip was quivering. She was weak and disgustingly pathetic. She reminded herself of this, her mental voice echoing that of her demon's. “W-what...?”

“Love,” Jace repeated. “You love Illidan, and I love you. It's the same love. I don't mean romantically. Honestly, I don't have time for romance,” he said with a sigh. “There are much more important things than that. Like saving our world, our planet, from an angry Titan hell-bent on destroying it.”

Talon felt her heart collapse from the strain. For a second—a tiny, insignificant second—she'd hoped he had actually meant romantically. Despair hit her like a 10-ton elekk as she realized that she was really wasn't ever meant to find love again.

“What I do have time for, however, is building a relationship with someone I trust and respect. Becoming their close friend and supporting them with all I have. And if this person and I end up deciding to stay together forever...then we will.” He looked at her rather pointedly now, hoping she would get the message.

After the huge letdown she'd just experienced, and the heartbreaks of the past, his words were a breath of fresh air in a stale world. She looked at him again, her heart lifting just slightly. It took all she had not to shout yes and throw her arms around him. Instead, she stared at him quietly, the tears having dried on her cheeks.

Did she love him at all? She searched deep within herself and gradually found the answer. First, she loved Illidan. She always would. The Illidari belonged to him. They were his. Talondressa may be the captain now, but Illidan would always be their creator and master. Regardless, being in charge of the Illidari, being responsible for their lives, really had changed her perspective of them. It seemed they had become an extension of Illidan, and in doing so, had earned a place in her heart, as well. They fought side-by-side with her every day, they followed her commands without batting an eye, and they gave her the respect and trust she'd craved but never received. In return, she led them the best she could, made every decision with them in mind, and made certain that they were safe at the end of the day.

Jace had a new way of looking at love. It was one she'd never thought of, but really like the sound of. With Xailaraa, it started out as a crush that grew into attachment. She cared for her undoubtedly, and enjoyed her company...but she hardly knew her. In fact, she knew her so little, that she hadn't even seen it coming when she returned from “training” in the Caverns of Time with a new lover and a child. With Lucidian, it started out as purely attraction. They made love countless times, and because of the chemistry they shared, they grew fond of and attached to each other, as well. But looking back on it, she knew absolutely nothing about the man. She cared whether he lived or died, but she didn't know a thing about him. She didn't know about his crimes and that he was on the run...that's why it took her so by surprise when he was taken into custody that day, never to be seen again. No; that couldn't have been love...Jace had to be right, then. He just had to be.

With this in mind, she asked herself once more if she loved Jace. The answer was clear then: she did. She respected him as one of her chosen champions, and as a fellow Illidari. He was reliable and kind, and very strong, too. Looking back on it, she remembered many times when he had made her smile with one of his little jokes. Despite the dark times they all were in, he was always there to try and lighten the mood. And even now, here he was, offering his companionship and love to her. Thinking of her. It seemed too good to be true.

So, she loved him. Now what? She was still firmly sticking to her vow. Even though everything seemed wonderful, she knew she couldn't let herself be fooled again. It had always seemed fine before, but never turned out very well in the end. This couldn't be any different. She knew that. But did she believe it...?

“So?” Jace asked, breaking the silence that had probably been killing him. “What do you say?”

Talon merely eyed him and said nothing. She weighed the options some more. He was nothing like the other two—this whole situation was different, in fact. He wasn't asking her to be his girlfriend because he had a slight crush on her, nor was he suggesting they become “exclusive” after making love dozens of times. He was making her a simple offer, with everything laid out before her. It didn't seem like there were any expectations being put upon her—not even being “in love” with him. He just wanted to build a relationship with her. Like friends, but...closer. What was so wrong about that?

She chewed on her lower lip and huffed a little. She was getting ready to say yes. His calm countenance and feather-soft voice made it hard for her to refuse. It almost persuaded her to abandon her past for him. She stared at him again, her gaze softening a little. Now that she had given him a real look-over, she found him to be a little cute. Another point towards him.

So, what. You love and respect him. He loves and respects you. He seems decent. He's not trying to get in your pants. And he's cute. What's stopping you?

“What's stopping you, Captain?” Jace asked softly, echoing her own question to herself. Talon jumped. “I get the feeling that if you'd really wanted to say no, you would have already.” He gave her a knowing smile.

Talon glared at him. “Fine then, since you seem to know me so well, why don't you tell me what my answer is.” Her voice seemed brash and sarcastic, but it was mainly because she was agitated at him for being so damn endearing.

Jace chuckled, leaning closer to her. It was the closest he'd ever been to her, though he was still several inches away. He gingerly brushed a bit of hair off of her forehead, and Talon's heart began to race. “You were going to say yes, right?”

Talon dared not speak, for she doubted anything coherent would come out anyways. She simply nodded at him, her eyes locked on his. She worried he could hear her terribly fast heart beat. He probably could.

The widest smile spread across the Illidari's face then. He looked like a kid on christmas. “Wonderful. That's good. Thank you,” he said to her, sitting up again. Talon was saddened as the distance between them grew once more.

Damnit. I'm already getting fond of him.

But for Jace, it was already business as usual again. He gently took her arms and asked her if she could sit up, then helped her to do so. He fluffed her blankets a little and made sure she was comfortable before leaving the room to get her something to drink. And all the while, Talon just sat there numbly. So exhausted. So full of emotions. Of kinship, of trust, of respect...and most of all, of love.

[piggys-writing-blog]

First Post!!

Hello everyone! Welcome to my brand-new writing blog! 

I’m going to be reposting the things I wrote on my old blog, shadowofillidan, onto this one. That old blog will be converted into an rp/wow blog, and this blog here is where you will find all things writing!

I’m not going to be charging anything for a while, because I realize that I am brand new here and I want to show you guys my talents first! So, feel free to leave me an ask for anything you want to have written. Whether it’s a little scene you’ve wanted to see put into words, or an idea for an entire fanfiction, let me know! (I won’t be doing anything NSFW right now.)

However, if you do wish to donate in exchange for a piece of writing, I will be gratefully accepting ko-fi/coffees! I am currently hoping to raise $500 to help my husband @rooted-and-reaching and I move so he can go to school for his Horticulture degree next year! Here is the link if you would like to help out: click

I hope you all have a fantastic day, and I can’t wait to share what I’ve written with all of you!