rainbrookeemberscar

[rainbrookeemberscar]

Chapter 6: of the Claw

The road to the barrow dens was a familiar one. She had walked it long ago and many times since then. The long, deep tunnels were a favorite of the guardian and feral druids. The small chambers were excellent for hibernating, meditating and...other druidic activities. Strangers were often too scared to journey within due to the echoing growls and groans from the occupants. 

As she reached the entrance an eerie feeling crept up her spine. Something was different this time, but she wasn't exactly sure what it was. Rain clenched her fists and steadied herself. Reclaiming her druidic nature would take patience and determination. No sense in backing down now. 

With that in mind, she continued down the long tunnel into the dark. It led down further and further. The dark, rich, earthy smells filled her nose as she went deeper. The air grew thicker and so dark she couldn't see her hand in front of her face. But just there up ahead of her she could make out a faint light. It was little at first, but as she drew closer the shape came into view.

It was a candle situated in a small seating alcove next to a quaint pool of water. She approached carefully, not wanting to disturb any other residents in the dens. As the flame danced and flickered, Rainbrooke spied the black satchel Ven'arkis had mentioned. It was slumped on the floor next to the fountain. As she bent down to retrieve it, however, something caught her eye in the pool of water. She peered at the black water searchingly. Nothing looked out of the ordinary. Just a dark pool of water in a cave. 

But that was just it. The water was empty, without reflection. She gently grabbed up the flickering candle and held it closer to the inky black waters. Shockingly, the candle appeared but without Rainbrooke holding it. It was as if she was invisible.

With her free hand, she reached out towards the water, hovering just above it for a brief second. Lightly, her fingertips dipped into the dark pool. It was a drowsy feeling at first, followed by  the soft hum of drifting into sleep; warmth surrounding her like a blanket. 

She could hear something...a girl...crying. She tried desperately to open her eyes but couldn't. 

"Hello?" Rain whispered into the sound's direction. 

There was no response, just the continued sound of weeping. 

"Shhhh, it's alright. I'm not going to hurt you. Tell ol' mamma Rain what's wrong, child? Are you lost down here in the barrows?"

The small voice stuttered and stammered through tears. "Y-yes. I've lost my mommy," she choked. " And there was a big, scary monster chasing me!"

Despite not being able to see the tiny girl, Rain could feel her. She could feel the terror leaching off the poor thing. "It's going to be alright, I promise. Let's work together to find her, what do you say?"

A sniffle echoed. "A-alright."

Rainbrooke nodded and smiled warmly. "Good. Let's go down to the dens and see if she's there." She reached out towards the little voice, motioning for the girl to take her hand. After a few moments of emptiness, a tiny, delicate hand slipped into Rain's and gripped it tightly. It was so small nestled in Rain's. 

The two set off further into the dens. Despite the fact Rain's eyes refused to open, she somehow managed to navigate them. Perhaps it was memory of the place, but it felt like she knew exactly where she was going. Each turn, each choice Rain moved through smoothly with clear direction. Until, finally, they came to the end of a segment and her direction was gone. She stood in the dark with the child's hand in hers trying to sense which way to go. 

The little hand suddenly gripped tighter.

"What is it?" Rain whispered.

The little voice spoke. "There is a split in the tunnel. Which way do we go, Rain?"

"Hmmm. Well my eyes aren't the best at the moment, so i'll need your help. Can you see any differences between the tunnels? Is one darker or greener? Is there more light in one?"

The little girl leaned forward peering closer at the tunnels. "Well...the one on the right has some green moss growing in it. And...."

A low growl echoed through the tunnels. "Oh no Rain!" she shrieked. "It's the monster!"

Rainbrooke again desperately tried to open her eyes to see. They opened halfway, just enough for her to get a vague picture of what was in front of her. "Get behind me," Rain commanded. There in the left tunnel just ahead, was a pair of yellow eyes glowing in the dark. The beast growled louder and stepped it's massive body further out into the dim light. It was another druid, a bear, most likely a male considering the size.

In the past, when druidism was still young, limiting the amount of time spent in form was crucial. It was not uncommon for the druid to become lost in the animal. But this occurrence had almost entirely disappeared as the expertise of the general druid population had increased. From his demeanor, she surmised that this may have happened to this male. What other reason would another Kal'dorei have to act aggressively to an unarmed woman and child?

Rainbrooke leaned back, throwing her hands up in front of her defensively. "Brother! Please, we mean you no harm."

The bear snarled and took another step closer.

"If you wish to fight, then so be it but let the child pass. Her mother is somewhere inside."

His head dipped low to the ground as he growled and gnashed his teeth, foam dripping from his jowls. He snapped at the quivering child.

The tiny girl yelped in terror. "Rain!"

Something clicked inside of Rainbrooke's mind. If she didn't act quickly this crazed druid would kill the girl! "Hey!" she screamed at him. "You want a fight?! I'll give you one!" Without a trace of hesitation, Rainbrooke lunged. As her body propelled forward, the change took shape. Her purple skin ripped apart, revealing brown fur beneath, revealing the bear underneath. 

She batted her large claws into him, drawing blood. Her teeth bared and loud growls, all asserting her dominance. This was her cub and NO ONE was going to touch her! The male's demeanor changed drastically. He quickly retreated to the tunnel from where he came and disappeared into the darkness. 

Rainbrooke stood in the dim light with eyes fully open now. A moment of glee shot through her as she reveled in the comfort of her old form. The dark brown fur, bits and bobs she'd earned and sown into her mane, all restored. She quickly shook off the happy moment to remember the child. 

Turning around, she noticed a small figure curled up at the edge of the room. "It's alright now, child. You're safe."

Slowly the figure stood and crept into the light to join Rain. But...this child...looked...like...Livi! All she could do was stare.

How? 

The child walked towards her and placed her tiny hand on the bear face. "Thank you, Rainbow."

"Who...who are you?" Rain stammered.

"Don't you recognize me silly?" she giggled.  

"A-alysa?"

The girl giggled again. "Yes. I have to go now, but promise you won't let any more bad monsters get me okay? Bye." She turned into the shadows and vanished.

Rainbrooke plopped down on the floor dumbfounded. Had she been hallucinating or was this real? If so how? Was Livi in trouble? 

Get up and go home! They need you!

She stood back up and charged off through the tunnels towards the entrance. 

"Don't worry Livi, I'm coming."

[rainbrookeemberscar]

Chapter 5: Wayward Daughter

The sound of soft raindrops woke her. Slowly, cautiously, she opened her amber eyes to discover she lay on a bed filled with animal furs and the distinct smell of wood. She was in a room overlooking a beautiful meadow. It took a few moments, but gradually the memories returned. She remembered the foreign feeling of the golem, the excruciating pain of the dragon's fire, and then......comfort. She felt comfortable again, after what had seemed like a lifetime.

Sitting up, Rainbrooke's eyes trailed down to her hands. The light purplish skin and long spindled fingers looked just like she remembered. Her arms, her legs, her breasts...all as she remembered. But what about her face? Frantically, she scanned the area around her searching for her reflection. There on the wall close by, hung a very weathered mirror. She shakily stood from the comfort of the furs and leapt towards the aged glass. 

Her hands rubbed across the flesh, the tattoos and the long dark hair in a joyous fit.  After several minutes of gleeful tears, she began to collect herself. Rainbrooke hummed with a renewed sense of gratitude for her body. She was finally home within herself. It was warm and pleasant and beautifully imperfect. The sound of the rain outside, again, travelled to her pointed ears. She turned from the reflection and gazed back out at the surroundings. At first, she didn't recognize the green trees or the sprawling lake. But as she stared, the realization hit her. 

I'm in Moonglade! But...how? How long have I been asleep?

The questions began racking up inside her mind, almost giving her a headache. A quick skimming of the rest of the room told her she was staying at one of the master Druid trainer's homes. Druidic carvings and idols were dotted around in the architecture and décor. A set of leathers was draped across the back of a chair, ready for her. 

It didn't take her long to dress, although navigating down the winding staircase took her more tries than anticipated. She had to rely on gripping the railing several times before finally reaching the bottom. As her feet touched the floor, a voice rung out from behind a decorative screen. "Good morning. Feeling better?" His voice was calm and deep, like the sound of heavy hooves on damp ground. 

Balancing on tip toes, she peered over to discover an elderly Kal'dorei man sitting in what appeared to be a reading nook with a small, ornately carved pipe hanging from his lips. "You have no idea," she replied.

A deep chortle escaped him. "I can only imagine for a creature as rare as you. Come, sit. I'm sure you're brimming with questions. Perhaps, I can answer some of them."

She searched his weathered face, enamored by the story it told. Scars and wrinkles, white tinged hair, and a certain dignified calmness to him all acted to draw the unsettled woman in. She obeyed his requested, but strode cautiously to the chair across from him. 

He smiled at her warmly. "Now then, let's start with the surface shall we? I am Ven'arkis Deepshade. I am a trainer to the young and inexperienced druids here in Moonglade. You," he said gesturing towards her, "are Rainbrooke Emberscar, once celebrated Druid of the Claw turned to Flame and in actuality....a phoenix." He sat back in his chair and continued smoking.

Rain stared at him, mouth agape. She was entirely caught off guard by his forwardness. It was so....refreshing. 

"Now I'm sure that by now you are wondering how you got here and how long you've been asleep. Your dragon friends arranged your transportation and you've been here with us for three days fast asleep in that bed."

"I see," she replied. "And...they.."

"Told me everything...yes." The smoke from his pipe steadily hovered upwards surrounding them.

"I see." She didn't know what to do now. There were no pretenses to keep up. No secrets about herself to hide. No past to hide behind. She was exposed. And now she didn't know what step to take next.

"Feeling a bit lost?" he hummed.

"Yes."

"Not completely unexpected, given everything that has happened. Were I in your place, I most likely wouldn't know my ass from a hole in the ground. But then, I am not in your place am I?"

A faint smirk crossed her plush lips. "No Master Deepshade. But I do sense there must be a reason the dragons brought me here and explained all of this to you. Have you some deep wisdom to bestow upon me? Something in all of my years walking this planet that I've overlooked or become too bitter to acknowledge?"

Another deep laughed escaped him, but this time it reached his eyes. "No I have learned, just as you have, there is no use in imparting your own wisdoms onto others. People will do exactly as they please, with or without your advice." He paused and took several deep puffs of the peacebloom. "But I have also learned that it is far more effective to help people find their own deep wisdoms." 

She quirked her violet brow inquisitively.

"Your dragon friends brought you to me so that I might help you to reconnect with your true self; The woman and the beast you were before Smolderon's interference."

"I'm not sure that woman was any better than who I am now. She was riddled with anger and grief. Years of war and heartbreak had taken their toll," she grimaced.

"Would you rather go on masquerading? Hide behind your fiery feathers? Or behind your golem? Or behind this child you protect, perhaps?"

The mentioning of Alysa pricked her. A dull anger swelled in her belly. "I am not hiding! I had limited choices in almost all of those circumstances."

"For thousands of years you roamed, fighting tooth and claw to prevent atrocities and as soon as you gave up your true self, you almost became an atrocity."

His words burned, but he was right. She had made a foolish decision and perhaps it truly was a hidden way to run from herself. A hidden way of trying to distance herself from Livian and Vincent before they, too, were stripped away. 

How could I have been so stupid?

"I don't know what to do," she muttered through dampening eyes. "I just can't lose someone like I lost him."

"Loss it a part of life, my dear. It is pain. It is tragedy. But it is also a reminder that we are indeed alive in this moment with the ones we do have. And we must love them while we have them."

Tears flowed freely down her cheeks. She had jeopardized everything she cared about, simply to avoid having it taken away from her. 

Ven'arkis reached his hand out and placed it tenderly on her shoulder. "If you are ready to accept yourself, accept back your past and your pain, then journey to the barrow dens and you will find what you seek."

Although what he had said pained her, she did appreciate him. A swift kick in the behind from a kindly, peacebloom smoking, druid teacher was exactly what she needed. Rain patted his hand and smiled before standing to leave. "Thank you."

"Oh and while you're in there, if you happen to see a black satchel, would you bring it back? I have looked all over for that damn thing!"

[rainbrookeemberscar]

Chapter 4: The Ritual

The throne room had been cleared of almost all occupants despite some protests from the other council members. All that remained was the Dragon Queen and the Phoenix. Heavy clouds had surrounded the open room, making it feel much more cramped and closed in. Rainbrooke now stood back in her golem form, shaking uncontrollably and griping her abdomen from the pain. Lady Alexstraza walked to the very edge and looked off into the snowy clouds. "Come to my side, Emberscar."

The sound of that moniker rolling off of Alexstraza's tongue send a spike through her heart. She could barely restrain the tears. Livi often called her that, especially when trying to sound authoritative and make a point. The way this dragon spoke it, it sounded much softer. It was comforting. She wiped away the salty tears and joined at Alexstraza's side. 

"I would assume that since you have made such an effort to find me and have submitted yourself, that you trust me. But I question whether you really trust yourself. Do you trust in your abilities completely?" the Dragon spoke softly.

Deep within her heart, Rainbrooke knew the answer. She knew she was a powerful creature, but she did not trust in herself. A deep part of her still believed she was meant for more destruction and devastation that anything else. A monster. "I do not trust in them completely. I've trusted nearly nothing completely my entire life." 

Alexstraza's eyes softened and she nodded. "From what you have told me, I can understand why. Making difficult choices and rash decisions can leave dark marks upon one's soul. But it does not change the beauty of the being beneath them." She reached out to Rain's face and brushed her cheek lightly. "You are not a monster Rainbrooke. You weren't then. And you're not now."

Rain tried her best to believe the Dragon. She was an ancient guardian who'd seen so much. Surely, Rainbrooke could believe her. But the memories of war, and her own grief nagged at the back of her mind.

"Even now you doubt. I can see it in your eyes. But here you are atop a dragon's temple, ready to go into servitude for the chance to save your friends," the Dragon Queen prodded.

Tears returned to Rain's eyes as she answered, "I...I love them."

"And that is proof in itself. You love others more than yourself, little one. True, you are capable of great destruction but you are so much more capable of compassion, selflessness and love. You can be a healing to those around you. And a protection from harm for those in need. Reclaim yourself....reclaim who you are. Call it back to you!" Alexstraza thrust her hand out into the misty clouds and they parted sharply, revealing the shining sun and the snowy landscape below. 

Rain closed her eyes and stepped closer to the edge, letting her toes dangle from the heights. "I am Rainbrooke Emberscar ;veteran of the first war, conqueror of the arena, slayer of the Lich King, pupil of nature and fire, Druid of the Claw, Phoenix of the purple flames and I AM NOT A MONSTER!" her voice shrieked across the land.

In the distance a soft and growing rumbled started, winds swept and swirled, and a dark patch of ash could be seen coming over the mountainous horizon. Her ashes! They were carried upon the wind, like fish in a current. Diving and swishing they came closer, until the wind let them go in a soft fall, depositing the ashes in a neat pile at her feet. "I did it," she gasped excitedly.

"That you did. Now, it's my turn." Alexstraza uttered her own Draconic spell and shed her mortal form. The Dragon Queen's scales shone a brilliant crimson in the sunlight. It was enough to steal the breath of any mortal. She strode closer to the small pile of ashes and, rearing her head back, unleashed a steady stream of fire. Flora and fauna began sprouting beneath the ashes as new life was breathed into them. 

Slowly, the ashes began to move. A very large plant began sprouting from them. A long stem, followed by a bulbous pod, unfurled. The pod was sealed shut but glowed a vibrant green color. Alexstraza sat back on her haunches and grinned, showcasing her gloriously massive teeth. 

Rainbrooke ooched closer to the pod structure and gently touched it. Instantly the pod opened and revealed the flowering bloom. Situated in the middle of the bloom was Rain's body. She gasped sharply.

It was really her. Not a vessel made for her. Not a construct. But really her. Renewed from her own ashes. "What now?" she asked turning to the Dragon.

"Now we rid you of this...container."

"And how do we do that?"

Alexstraza's voice growled low. "We destroy it."

"This is going to be hurt isn't it?" she quipped.

"Still trust me, little one?" Alexstraza replied.

"Yes."

"Then do as I say." She motioned for Rain to move away from the body. "Stand still."

Rainbrooke obeyed and clenched her jaw. It wasn't going to be pleasant, whatever it was. She pictured Livi and Vincent in her mind. And....Alysa.

Alexstraza reared her head back once more and spewed her dragon's fire directly at the golem. The flames engulfed Rain, completely encasing her. Rain screamed in agony but the Dragon's words echoed in her mind, "Stand still!" The golem materials began to buckle and twist. Her new "skin" was melting like wax from a freshly lit candle. 

She tried to remain standing for as long as she could, until finally her limbs began detaching and she collapsed in a heap. The fire continued burning and consuming the golem flesh until all that remained was a small ball-like mass. Alexstraza leapt forward and snatched it her claws. She dug through that remaining clay until she could see a brilliantly shining light. She held the phoenix soul in her hands. 

"Beautiful," she murmured. "Not without blemish, but beautiful all the more." She plucked the light from the clay and pushed it into the chest of the Kal'dorei body still resting within the bloom. Painstakingly long moments passed before Rain took her first breath. Her eyes were not open but she was alive. 

"Rest now, little one," Alexstraza breathed. "Tomorrow we will continue our journey."

[rainbrookeemberscar]

Loyalties

It's an odd thing to know you're a ticking bomb. Every breath lingers in your chest a bit longer. Every time you hear the loud ringing of cathedral bells or a baby crying, your heart stops and clenches in your chest worrying that you might be the disastrous end to someone else’s beginnings. You become eerily aware of everyone and everything around you. I wouldn't recommend it. Until I have all of this sorted I feel it is best for me to remain distanced from you. But i wanted you to know that I love you and Vincent and..most of all..Alysa. I will do everything in my power to protect you and her, even if that means removing myself...for the time being. Be well my dearest Livigosa. Love, Rain

She set the quill down shakily, hoping Livi would appreciate the update. It had taken everything just to keep her hands steady enough to write the damn thing. By this point, she was quite sure things were beginning to get interesting in the pregnancy. It plagued Rain that she was not there to help. Although she had never actually been pregnant, herself, she had helped in a number of battlefield births and had taken a midwifery class shortly after taking up her position as the mortician's apprentice. And beyond all of those technicalities, Rainbrooke loved children and they usually loved her. Perhaps it was her naturally calm demeanor or the warm, fuzzy fur. Regardless, she had a way with them and it was eating her up inside to be away during this critical time.

She looked down at her trembling hands and frowned. They were getting worse by the hour. She needed help and fast. But it all still begged the question of; who? Who could she turn to? Who could possibly accept who and what she was? It would take someone who had the knowledge and wisdom to look beyond appearances. Someone trustworthy. Someone that wouldn't abuse her powers.

I need a fucking dragon, she mused. But then the idea shot through her like an arrow. A dragon....that's it! I NEED A FUCKING DRAGON! She quickly shoved her letter in the mailbox and shot off through town towards the nearest dark alleyway she could find. There was no way in hell she'd go the Bronze flight after what happened with Vincent. The Blue's, gods love them, were a bit too weighed down with logic and rules to suit her needs. The Green's were in a state of chaos after the tremendous loss of Ysera, and Rain doubted that they really needed to be worrying about a time bomb phoenix creation. But that left one flight, one flight that could hold the key.

Old Dalaran was the closest she could get to get to her destination. As she stepped onto the landing area, gryphons and dragons and all other variety of flying creatures swooped around overhead. 

"Give me the fastest you got," she said flipping out several gold coins to the flightmaster.

"But you've only just arrived madam," he snickered.

She flashed a faint smirk and boarded the black cloud serpent that had been summoned. "And it was long enough in this hot bed of mage scum."

The cloud serpent swayed and swished lightly over the mountain range, until Wyrmrest Temple was within view through the snowy landscape. The Red Dragonflight was known for its high regard for all life. Lady Alexstraza was given the title of Life Binder for a reason and Rainbrooke was praying that the Dragon Queen would listen and be willing to help. Besides, who better to fix a dragon made golem than a dragon? 

The trick would be getting an audience with Lady Alexstraza. She was the Dragon Queen after all, and had countless duties to attend to. Had she more time, a well thought out and intricate plan would've been concocted, but time was not something she had. Just short of bursting in and shouting her problems to the heavens for all manner of creature to hear, Rain would have to be bold and straightforward to get what she needed. Or, at least, the chance to get what she needed. 

After landing and taking just a moment to make herself as presentable as possible under the circumstances, Rainbrooke hurriedly set off into the temple. The tower reigned high into the clouds, but all guests entered through the bottom floor. Massive, spiraling columns supported the structure. And the distinct sound of clattering shoes echoed across the marble floors. It was a grand building, but she expected nothing less from a temple full of dragons. 

One of the female attendants finally managed to catch Rain's attention and motion her over. "Welcome to Wyrmrest Temple. Is there something I can help you with?"

"Yes, I need to speak with Lady Alexstraza," Rain replied very matter-of-factly. 

"I see. Well, I'm afraid the Lady is busy currently. Perhaps someone else may be of assistance to you?"

Had she been in any other circumstance, Rain would've been very content to be put off to some lesser for handling, but this was not other circumstances. "I'm afraid no one else will do. If I'm ignored, it would spell out death for a number of people!"

The attendant squinted. "Is that a threat?"

"No. Merely a warning.....an...eventuality." She tried her very best to express the dire need. "Look, I may appear as any of these other mortals stumbling through life looking for answers from a dragon, but you and I both know appearances aren't everything."

The attendant squirmed around and looked over Rain.

"Please," Rain gasped. "I don't have much time."

"Very well, I will escort you to the throne room, but your visit will be brief and supervised. Is that understood?"

"Explicitly."

The attendant opened a portal to the top floor hovering in the clouds, the throne room, and walked through it. Rain followed behind her, carefully watching and trying to contain herself. Most of the dragons were in their mortal forms conversing and sorting out dragon matters. She specifically heard several of them speaking of Senegos but couldn't decide exactly what was being said. They spoke in a broken mixture of common and Draconic to mask their conversations. 

"My Lady, do forgive my interruption but this seemed urgent," the attendant addressed the group. She then backed away leaving Rainbrooke front and center in the midst of the Red Council. A pair of golden horns poked above the heads of the rest of them and began moving through the crowd. 

The Dragon Queen stepped forward and locked eyes upon Rain, inquisitively gazing her over. "And now you have my attention mortal, speak. What is so urgent that you would interrupt my council meeting?"

Rainbrooke instinctively bowed her head to the great beast before speaking. "I did not wish to come here. I did not wish to come groveling to you....but here I am. I need your help."

Alexstraza watched her carefully, but there was a certain softness to her eyes. "Many come seeking the power of my flight, whether it is to help fight in their wars or restore a loved ones health. But my aid is not meant for those things. It is reserved for only...certain matters. So tell me, which of these things have you come for?"

"Neither, my Lady. I came here for your help. And I came here to offer mine." She snapped her fingers and the delicate mortal golem she wore vanished, revealing the violet flaming phoenix within. There was an audible gasp at her transformation and dull whispers surged through the crowd. "I am Rainbrooke Emberscar, former servant of Smolderon, Lord of the Firelands."

Alexstraza's eyes widened. "And do you come to me with war upon your mind? Do you come with threats!?" she snarled.

"No, great Queen. I come before you a lost creature in a body that is not mine, but crafted by one of your kin. I come before you as a servant....without a master."

The dragon's eyes softened again. "Without a master?"

"He is missing." Her voice cracked. "When I needed him, he abandoned me, leaving me to find solutions that have proved more deadly than I could've ever imagined."

"You say this body is not yours, so that means you had a different one?" she asked.

"I walked Azeroth for 10,000 years as a Kal'dorei Druid of the Claw. I fought and served in all of the great wars. I mourned Lady Ysera. And I grieved the burning of my home. I was filled with rage and Smolderon offered me a solution. He remade me and I existed as a Druid and a Phoenix cohesively."

The Dragon Queen strolled the edges of the room, thinking. "I take it a lot transpired after that for you to be in the shape you're in now."

Rainbrooke dipped her fiery head in a nod. "Yes, some of the choices were mine. Some were not. But the conjoining of my Phoenix abilities and the magics used to create this golem have proved to be...too much. I'm a disaster in waiting. Thus I came to the only creature I knew was strong enough and wise enough to listen."

Alexstraza continued pacing, but remained silent.

Silence was the most tortuous thing to endure in Rainbrooke's mind. No response could mean anything. She winced as she spoke the next words. "I would not expect your help without offering you my allegiance as payment. I can guarantee I am not the strongest of your servants by any means. But I am the only one that can come back from the grave time and time again, ready to do whatever I can for your flight."

The pacing stopped. "You're offering your service to my flight in exchange for help with your "golem" problem?" Her face was hard and intense.

Rainbrooke was unsure of what intent was hidden behind that question, but the terms were correctly stated. She had no choice but to answer, "Yes, my Lady."

"Very well. You may be of use to me and I may be of use to you," she stated calmly and mysteriously. "Your previous form, where is it?"

Rain's fire dimmed and she hung her head low. "I burned it to ash, which I'm sure has long since blown away."

Lady Alexstraza walked closer and lifted Rain's chin. "Then we shall call the ashes back."

[rainbrookeemberscar]

Chapter 2: The Phoenix Hall

The purple, spinning gateway stood ominously before her. Her stomach ached with anxiety at the thought of outcomes and possibilities within. But first there was the rabble by the front door to take care of. Kael'thas' other servants were not nearly as powerful as the great bird, but they were a nuisance. Although, she mused, it was rather comical that she now looked eerily similar to them. Perhaps that would work in her favor. 

The idea piqued her curiosity. Rather than blasting her way in, perhaps a more subtle approached could be utilized, putting A'lar in a friendlier frame of mind. Rain took a breath, pulled her shoulders back, and turned her nose up to give her best Sin'dorei impression. Here goes nothing.

The architecture reminded her of the Draenei style, smooth and flowing with colorful accent colors lighting the way. Groups of Sin'dorei roamed around exuding grace and snobbery. All green eyes shot to her, as she stepped further inside. "Halt!" several of them lunged forwards with weapons drawn. "State your business."

Now came the time to see if her performance could stand the test. Rain quirked her brow and sneered at their weapons held towards her. "Really?" she scoffed. "I don't think that's how you should greet your new mistress."

The guards shot each other confused glances and squirmed. One of them spoke up. "We..um..I wasn't informed of any newcomers arriving today. Much less a...."

"Mistress?" she purred. "Pity. I'm quite sure your superior would be disappointed in your turning away someone with my," her eyes glimmered, "specialties." It was working. She could see deep down in his eyes, past the front door guardsman badge, he was incredibly curious now. 

"And what specialties are those, exactly?" 

Her gaze continued on him, watching his every feature, analyzing and correcting her body language to further draw him in. "The kind that leaves enemies as a pile of ash on the floor. And leaves lovers....well," she teased, "that's a story best left to private conversation." 

The guard flushed red and smirked. 

Gotcha.

"Well Mistress, you seem like the sort that would be welcomed here by the Master. But I would ask that you speak with his generals first."

She bowed her head auspiciously. "Of course."

"In the meantime, if you would follow me, I will escort you to the Phoenix Hall." She sauntered behind him in utter shock. Did that really work? Or is this guy just an idiot? It didn't matter now. She was headed exactly where she wanted to be, the Phoenix Hall. 

As they entered the grand room, Rain had to resist the urge to let her mouth gape open. It was far more beautiful than she'd remembered. Overhead, A'lar circled, blazing a beautiful, fiery trail around the room. He was magnificent. "I will speak with him," she said pointing up.

"The phoenix?"

"Is that what it is? Fascinating." She hoped feigning ignorance would be successful at reducing suspicions. "I will speak with him." 

The guard shuffled around and squirmed before nodding and setting off to call the bird's attention. After several gestures and posturing and great phoenix flew downwards and landed just a few strides away from Rainbrooke. Her heart pounded and her insides jittered around like young fireflies. Never had she so ached to burst into a dead run. But nothing would stop her now, not even her own fears. 

"Mistress, I present A'lar, the great phoenix of Kael'thas."

She strode towards them in a gracefully smooth float. "Well, well. Aren't you the prettiest bird I've ever seen?"

A'lar appeared to gaze through her, and for a moment time seemed to stop. The two locked eyes, one phoenix to another.

He knows.....

She was completely unsure of what was going to happen. Would he alert the guards? Or try to attack her? The brief seconds ticking by were tortuous. Everything was weighing on this interaction. 

"I will leave you to get acquainted," the guard blurted out. "I will go and fetch one of the higher ranked officers to get you settled in Mistress."

Rain nodded without even taking her eyes off of A'lar. She'd be damned before she was the first to look away!

A voice crept through to her, subtle and curious. "No I believe you are the prettiest bird ever seen."

His words were surprising. She had not expected that kind of response. "I'm not sure why I ever doubted your ability to see past this form."

He chuckled. "Yes, I can only assume you took it to remain hidden amongst the mortals for a time."

"Something like that." Dear gods it would be difficult to even try and explain everything, so she didn't bother with the details. "You must be wondering why I'm here."

A'lar tilted his fiery head to the side, eyeing her closer. "That question had crossed my mind. Amongst others."

"I've travelled all this way to...to...seek your guidance. To ask you several important questions and then leave as calmly and peacefully as I came." Rain twitched and rolled her fingers behind her back, desperately hoping he wouldn't see how fearful she really was.

"We shall see. Ask your questions," he answered sharply.

"The tales say that you were created by Kael'thas. Were you a mortal before? Or..." "Me? A mortal?" he laughed. "No my master's power set into motion my creation." She frowned worriedly. "I see. Yes, of course. And what of your abilities?"

The fire radiating off of him shifted to an angrier shade of orange as he spoke, "My abilities, you say?"

She had to fix this quickly. "Forgive me, poor word choice. Are you limited to the fire magics granted by your master or have you learned other magics?"

His color returned to normal. "We are creatures of pure magic. But to combine too many facets together would be disastrous. One vessel can only contain so many before it...overflows."

Is that what's happening to me? 

"And what would happen if the vessel overflowed?" she pressed.

"Devastation."

Just like in the dreams. Everything he'd told her thus far made sense. "Is there anyway to stop it without triggering the....devastation?"

A'lar remained silent and motionless.

"Please!" she pleaded.

"Return to your master," he answered.

Rainbrooke reacted to his words as if she'd been struck. News had recently reached her that Smolderon was missing. Her master was gone. "I have none. He has left me."

"Then it is only a matter of time."

"But what of the rebirth? I could simply go somewhere remote to....devastate and then...." ideas spun through her. "But I would come back in this body and have the same problem all over again." Tears swayed heavy in the rims of her golden eyes.

"A phoenix is created by a master...and if that master is lost....another must be found." "A master? But who could I trust? Who would understand everything I've been through?" her voice cracked.

His voice hummed low. "I envy you, my dear. So powerful. So beautiful. Unbridled. Tis a dangerous and glorious thing."

Rainbrooke managed a faint smile. It was a compliment coming from him. "Thank you, for everything."

"My master will not take kindly to my allowing such a wonderous creature slip through my fingers.....but you and I both know what his fate will be, so it matters very little."

She raised her brow inquisitively and surprised. "I don't know why I ever doubted you."

"Because you're wise. Now begone. Find your new master."

Without hesitation she swiveled her wrists and spoke a small incantation, teleporting herself back the safe harborage of Shattrath. She pulled her hood back over her red tendrils and set out for the inn. She could barely walk, much less fly anywhere else for the time. The inn would have to do for tonight. 

As she lay her head down on the pillow, utterly exhausted and overwhelmed, her final thought echoed....

Livi's gonna kill me.

[rainbrookeemberscar]

Chapter 1: Questions

Her breath hitched as she set eyes on the little face before her. Two beautiful blue eyes stared, and soft pink flesh grasped. Alysa was everything a baby should be, warm and loved, so much love. Rain’s hands folded around her gently, like cradling an egg, and brushed the soft dark hairs along her head. She was so entranced, she'd hardly even noticed the calls of the child’s mother, Livian.

"Rain! Stop!...." She glanced up and around. The noises were fuzzy and so were the https://www.pinterest.surroundings. It looked as though the entire area around them was covered in a thick, soupy haze. "Rain! Please!....." Livian cried. What could Livi possibly be concerned about? It's not like she would ever do anything to harm Alysa. Rain's eyes trailed back to the infant in her grasp, but Alysa wasn't there. Only a smoldering heap of ashes clung in her shaking palms. She couldn't breathe.... I...I couldn't....I.... Tears and sobs escaped her as she cradled the ashes to her chest. I'm so sorry....

"Would you like a refill on your tea Miss?" the waiter inquired. Rain's attention snapped back to the cup betwixt her fingers, now just barely containing any of the warm contents. "Miss?" he pressed. "Yes, yes." She held her cup out and tried to smile. There was a small bit of comfort watching the amber colored liquid pour from the spout and splashing into the dainty cup. She wished desperately that the herb infused water could wash away these disturbing visions. But in the end she knew that was just a wish, not a reality. 

After cleaning up a few of the spilled droplets, the waiter bowed his head and dismissed himself to attend to other customers waiting. She watched him for a few moments before refocusing on her cup. It was rather ironic that she found herself reflected in a teacup. Warmth swirling and churning in a certain amount of chaos, all contained in a dainty, porcelain container so easy to break. "Bah," she muttered.

The haunting reality was Rain had no idea what she was doing anymore; no clue who she was or even what she really wanted. She was a hot, swirling, churning mess and quite possibly dangerous. Everything that had happened in the past few months had left her in a place she was not familiar with. Before, she'd lived 100 lifetimes of men and knew precisely who and what she was. Now, it was a different story. Was she a phoenix? A golem? A Kal'dorei? A Quel'dorei? 

What bothered her even more, there was no one to guide her. Her friends had helped her through these processes. Livian had created this unique golem for her and had been continually maintaining a close eye on her developments, but even Livian didn't know exactly what would happen. When Rain had felt like sharing any new progress or changes the poor dragoness would be thrown for a loop and drown herself with guilt and worry. 

Rain was not a child to be coddled or caged, even for her own safety. The only thing Rain was completely sure of was that she needed training. The fire magic was a minor concern in comparison to the other abilities popping up. And these visions....hallucinations.....whatever they were....were becoming a real problem. She needed someone to trust. Someone to guide her and teach her how to control all of this. The mere mention of training had sent Livian into a tantrum, but Rainbrooke knew there was more at risk than just the wrath of the Magus Senate. Livian was right, however. Those pompous politicians, powerful though they are, are not to be trusted. But who?

She drummed her fingers across her lips anxiously, wondering if she would spy the stubborn drake coming to drag her back to the mortuary. Livian would be furious when she received Rain's letter explaining her choice to seek training. In her heart, though, Rain knew it was the only option, especially after what she had seen. 

There was only one other phoenix she was aware of, perhaps he would be able to shed some light on the situation. That is, if she could get him to talk to her. He served the great Prince of Silvermoon, Kael'thas Sunstrider. But he was a phoenix nonetheless. 

She tossed a few coins on the table, making sure to leave a generous tip for the waiter, and made her way to the portals. Shattrath would be the closest to she could get to Tempest Keep without alerting anyone. Several timelords had created a magical field upon the entrance to that place, transporting those back in time to when the occupants were still alive. It served as a testament of the plunders of devotion to the Fel. Kael'thas and his minions had done terrible things with magic and it proved to be their downfall. Now it seemed that period of time might hold some of the most important answers for Rainbrooke.

She stepped through the portal and arrived instantaneously in the City of Light. Refugees pattered back and forth through the corridors, buying and selling goods. She did her best to blend into the crowds, pulling her hood over the red tendrils of hair and trying to cover her face.

She hurried quickly in buying her gryphon ride and setting out. The sooner she was away from crowds the less chance she had of being discovered, or of causing a scene. She used to love crowds and parties, dancing all night. Now, the thought almost made her vomit. 

The trees and stone passed beneath them in a haze, until the creature slowed and landed just outside the mighty keep. Goblins and Sin'dorei had taken up residence outside to sell their wares and offer loaded down travelers a place to dispose of unwanted items. But she wasn't in the market for either this day. A short walk away was the door to the great phoenix A'lar. Would he have answers? Would he even speak to her? So many questions buzzed around in her head, but she would never know if she didn't try.