"Here with you..."

She heads to bed ahead of him as he puts Riptik down for the night. He joins her there in short order. She turns to face him as he settles at her side. "Barraccus," she asks softly. "Do you ever have any regrets about what happened to you?"

He looks at her curiously. "You mean being a death knight, and everything that came with it," he states, and she nods. He frowns slightly in thought, rolling to his back and staring at the ceiling. "No," he says finally, then looks at her again. "I wouldn't change a thing, no matter what I went through to get here. If anything did change, I most likely wouldn't have met you, Quae."

She frowns now, looking uncertain. "So your family dying, all the torture you went through.... You wouldn't change any of that?"

He shakes his head. "I know it sounds terrible, but Quae... I would go through it all again, so long as I knew that in the end I would be here with you."

She looks at him without answering for a minute, then she reaches over to gently stroke his cheek. His hand comes up to cover hers as it comes to rest on his chest. She can feel his heart beating under her arm, and she smiles.



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This is basically what was going through my mind when I did this picture. (So everyone get your minds out of the gutter! >.>) Haven't done anything RP-wise with these two for ages, and I miss them. I'm still not sure exactly when I'll move them to Feathermoon, but it'll probably be soon. Anyways, enjoy zee artz!

Quae and Barraccus: Heading North

Quae gently traced the scars zigzagging across Barraccus' chest. He lay still, eyes closed, though she knew he was awake. She said nothing, however. She was thinking.

He had arrived in Telaar earlier that afternoon, and she had immediately noticed how worn out he looked. He had brushed off her concerns, so she had let it drop. All through that afternoon, however, she had watched him closely. He was tired, it showed in everything he did. She had cut their time out short, pretending to be tired herself, and after a supper that he only picked at, they had retired early.

She knew that his work up north kept him busy, yet he managed to get back to her every weekend so they could spend time together. But the constant traveling was exhausting him. Quae knew it had to stop. Barraccus would argue, she knew he would. She was also pretty sure of what he would say, and carefully thought out her own arguments accordingly.

Finally she leaned over, laying her hand on his cheek as she kissed him. He returned the kiss, then as she sat back again he opened his eyes and gave her a faint smile. "I love you," he said softly, and she smiled back. "I love you too," she said, then paused before continuing, "but... you should be up north." He blinked at her, first in surprise, then confusion. "I should-I need to be with you," he started, but she laid a finger on his lips, silencing him. "Hear me out, love," she asked him, and after a moment he nodded slowly.

"You need to be up north," she said bluntly. "You need to be there, when he falls. You need the closure, love. You can't be whole without it, and I need you whole." He blinked at her, then when she took her finger away he asked, "And how can I be sure you're safe, if I can't see you?" She gave him a faintly mocking grin. "Simple, love. I'm coming with you." "What?!" he exclaimed, sitting up partway on the bed, then he winced and lowered his voice. "But... Northrend, Quae. It's bad enough with you here, but what makes you think being with me will make it easier to keep you safe?"

She frowned, and he knew he had probably said at least two things he shouldn't have. Instead of answering sharply, however, she merely said, "It will be easier because you won't have to worry about us being apart. I'll be right under your eye. The Temple doesn't have any more of a presence there than they do here. And if you don't think you can protect me from anything up there, you're not giving yourself enough credit."

He looked at her for a bit, finally cracking a small smile. Then his gaze sharpened. "But what about your work here? Are you just going to pack up and leave?" She shook her head at him. "Barraccus, there is no work left. Everything I've been doing the past few weeks has been repetitive chores, things to keep me busy and out of their hair. And there are still younger adventurers coming in, looking to prove themselves before they head north. Love, trust me. I will not be missed."

Barraccus was silent for a few minutes, then finally he gave her a crooked grin. "You thought up an argument for anything I might say, didn't you?" he asked wryly. She smiled back. "Pretty much. You are rather predictable, love." He chuckled, then pulled her closer for another kiss. "Alright," he said when they parted. "We'll head out first thing. To Northrend." The twist of his mouth when he said it showed he still didn't approve, but she knew he wouldn't argue anymore; she had won. She snuggled down at his side, allowing herself a small triumphant grin. "To Northrend," she repeated softly. "Together."

Quae and Barraccus: Hopes

I know this has been long-delayed. Shaurria has been taking up most of my story-writing time lately. For a refresher, this happens right after this.

Also I'm borrowing the ideas for herb uses from the Wildfire Riders & Co., they have a thread about it here for reference.
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The next day Quae ran through everything the Honor Hold commanders told her to do quickly. With Barraccus' help, none of it took long. She was dismissed after turning in her last report, then she and Barraccus went back outside to their mounts. He turned to her before getting on Krallormu. "I'm presuming you have a spot picked out?" he asked with a grin, and she grinned back. "Follow me," she said, then urged Thoribas up and away. He scrambled into the saddle quickly and chased after her.

Quae found an outcropping of rock and waited for Barraccus to catch up to her before nudging Thoribas down. She dismissed the gryphon, knowing he wouldn't go far, and turned to see Barraccus already off Kral's back, looking around. They were as alone as they could be; even the orcs of Zeth'gor nearby were no bigger than ants in the distance. He turned to face her, grinning. "Nice spot," he said. "So what was it you wanted to tell me?"

Quae looked at him appraisingly, until his grin turned mischievous, then she abruptly dismissed her shadows. "First, love, take off your shirt." His eyebrows went up, but he complied without comment, having grown used to this routine. Quae helped him with his armor, then he pulled his shirt off and sat. Quae knelt next to him, her hands already starting to glow with holy energy. Placing one hand on his chest, she let the power flow into him and closed her eyes, following it with her senses. It filtered through muscles and blood vessels, then deeper to bones and organs. She felt it when it came upon anything out of order, guiding it as it healed cuts and scratches, then a pulled muscle she hadn't even realized he had.

He flexed his arm when she finished, testing the now-healed shoulder muscle, and grinned at her. "Thanks." She still just studied him, a slight frown her only expression. "You're sure it doesn't hurt anything?" she asked him. Arien's words echoed through her head- "It's not a good way to test, since healing works on the Forsaken just like it does on us"- but she pushed them away.

Barraccus caught her hand in his own and pulled it away, breaking the contact and the healing spell. "Quae," he began, his expression now as serious as hers. "You've been doing this every day we've had together for the last couple months. What is it?"

She closed her eyes briefly, opening them again to look into his. "Tell me again how you died," she said softly, just above a whisper. He raised an eyebrow, and she smiled slightly. "I'm not changing the subject. Trust me." Now he closed his eyes for a moment, then looked out into the distance. "I don't remember. All I can recall is his eyes digging into mine, then blackness. When I woke I was in Acherus, and my training began. What does it have to do with anything?"

Quae took a deep breath. Elune, she prayed silently, give me the right words. "I've been thinking about it the last few months. Don't you think death would have been a bit more... memorable?" He shrugged. "I don't know, Quae. But what does it have to do with whatever you've been doing?" "Barraccus," she began, then paused, suddenly uncertain. Finally she blurted, "What if you didn't die?"

He blinked, surprised. "What do you mean?" "What if you never died, love? I've been researching this in Stormwind's library, and nothing I've found says you have to die to become a death knight. Light, Arthas was a death knight before he became the Lich King, and he never died; there are all sorts of accounts of it. And I found a strange book, that says if you agree to it, you simply receive the powers." She hoped no one from the Temple found out she had read that book. Creepy and mysterious didn't even begin to describe it; it had probably belonged to a cultist once.

Barraccus stared at her as she spoke, the skepticism in his eyes slowly being replaced by uncertainty. He mouthed the words agree to it after her, then as she finished he looked at her sharply. "Why are you so sure of this, Quae? I mean, it'd be wonderful, but still..."

"Think about it, love," she told him. "If you're not undead, the Temple can't touch you. The charges against me would be dropped, we could make our vows official, and... when we're ready, we could start a family." At the word family, his expression changed, a look of pain and longing flashing briefly across his face. "But Quae," he said. "That should prove it if nothing else does. I mean, shouldn't something have, you know, happened by now?"

Quae had been expecting him to ask that, but she still dropped her gaze. "Umm, about that," she said hesitantly. "I'm afraid I haven't been totally honest with you, Barraccus." She glanced up at him; he had gone completely still, his expression unreadable. "Quae," he said quietly. "Are you...?" She gave him a small, sad smile. "No," she replied, and his face showed disappointment for a moment, before he regained control. "Then what do you mean?" "You know the tea I make every morning?" she asked, and he nodded. She took a deep breath. "It's earthroot." She watched his face carefully.

He was silent, staring at nothing for a long while. Finally he looked up at her. "Earthroot?" She nodded, still watching him. "You really think I'm not an undead?" "Yes, I'm getting sure of it," she replied, and he nodded. She studied him as they sat in silence for several more minutes. "Barraccus," she said hesitantly. "If you want me to stop taking the tea..." He shook his head. "No, you might as well stay on it. At least I can get it for you from now on. I'm guessing Alanon was providing it before?" "Yes," she replied. "Love... are you all right?"

He didn't answer right away, instead looking off into space, his expression still unreadable. Finally he looked at her, and after a moment he cracked a grin. "Yea, I think I'm more than all right." Quae smiled back, fighting back the worry that came when she saw the hope slowly growing in his eyes.

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P. S. - Happy Thanksgiving everybody!!

Quae and Barraccus: Honor Hold

Barraccus arrived at Honor Hold earlier than usual. Quae's first hint was when the lieutenant she was speaking to suddenly started to grin knowingly. She turned to see a very familiar bronze dragon waiting patiently behind her, and its equally familiar rider watching her with a little smile. She barely heard the lieutenant's "Dismissed, priestess. Go enjoy yourself," as she went over.

Krallormu nodded to her as he rumbled, "Good evening, Quae." She absently patted his scaly head as she walked up to Barraccus, who had hopped off the drake at her approach. "Heya," he said, grinning. She grinned back before stepping into his arms, hugging him back as hard as he hugged her. "All set here?" he asked into her ear, and she nodded. Stepping back reluctantly, she headed to the stable master to get Thoribas, and they were off soon after.

They returned to Honor Hold soon after night fell, though it was always hard to tell when that was here in Hellfire Peninsula. Quae slept fitfully that night, finally giving up after the fifth time she found herself awake. She propped herself up a bit on the pillow and watched Barraccus sleep next to her. He looked peaceful, and she wished, not for the first time, that he could look that relaxed while he was awake.

She gently placed her hand against his chest, feeling his heart beat under her fingers. His skin was surprisingly warm. Everything about him was so unlike any of the few undead- death knights or Forsaken- that she had known. She hoped desperately that her hunches were right. After her talk with Arien the day before, she felt more encouraged. The paladin hadn't discounted her idea at all, in fact she seemed to think it might be possible. Quae vowed to do more research the next time she was in Stormwind. Barraccus never asked why she spent so much time in the library, but then, he was usually busy keeping an eye out for any threats from the Temple until they left.

She began slowly tracing the scars on his chest with her fingers, careful not to wake him. All the while she thought to herself, he did deserve to know. Alanon was right; she shouldn't keep this secret, especially when she might need his cooperation soon. She focused on the scars, studying them. When he had told all of them about his captivity, back when he had rescued Rhokk, he hadn't mentioned how he had gotten these ones. Later, though, she had asked him about them, and he had told her what he remembered. He told her everything; it was only fair that she was honest with him.

She was startled when Barraccus' hand suddenly came up and covered her own. She looked up as he opened his eyes and smiled at her. "Tickles," he whispered, and she smiled back. "Sorry, love. Didn't mean to wake you," she whispered in reply, then leaned over and kissed him. After she pulled back, she studied him for a minute, until his eyebrow quirked questioningly. "I need to tell you something tomorrow," she finally said, and the other eyebrow came up. She smiled reassuringly. "It's not important," -she winced inwardly at the lie- "but don't let me forget, okay?" He looked at her curiously, but nodded. Satisfied, she snuggled back into his arms and willed herself to sleep once again.

Alanon and Quae have another talk

So this one is long overdue. I've been stuck on it for awhile, just because I've been too tired lately to kick my writer's block. But it's finally finished!

I've been playing with a new story idea for Quae and Barraccus for a while now, and figured I'd kinda start it off now, so that's what the second part is about. I'll do more on it later.
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Alanon stepped through the door into his room at the Hero's Welcome, and set his pack down with a sigh. A sigh that was quickly cut off when he saw who was waiting for him. "Hello, big brother," Quae said innocently from her seat on the edge of his bed, a mischievous grin on her face. "...Hello, Quae," he replied warily. "And how did you get here?" The grin grew wider. "Barraccus of course," she told him, and he sighed. "Well, what did you want, little sister?" he asked.

She didn't answer at first, instead gesturing at the door casually. A tendril of shadow detached itself from the darkened corner of the room, and nudged the door closed. Then Quae stood up, becoming much more businesslike. "I'm here about a certain paladin, and you," she said bluntly, and he blinked. "Arien and me? What has that got to do with you?" he asked rather testily. "Dear brother," she said. "How long are you two going to dance around each other? Do you even know how you feel about her yet? Whether you love her, or are content to be simply friends?"

Alanon blinked again, then stood up straighter, crossing his arms over his chest. "Why are you so concerned about it, Quae?" he asked. "Alanon," she answered. "Look at yourself. You've always been there for the rest of us. You practically raised Pitch and I. Light, I pretty much owe you my life now. Isn't it time you did something for yourself? You obviously care about her or you wouldn't be spending so much time out here with her, but then you worry that you're not doing your family duty. Give yourself a break."

He glared at her for just a few seconds longer, then gave up with another sigh. Moving to the edge of the bed, he sat down, and she settled back down next to him. "I can't help it, Quae," he said quietly. "For so long you all were my only concerns, and it's hard to just let it go." "I know, but you ought to try harder," she told him. "Let's start with the biggest question- do you love her?" He looked at her steadily for a bit before answering, "Yes." She smiled. "Good. Now we're getting somewhere. Anything in particular about her that attracts you?"

Alanon looked away, staring into space for several minutes before answering quietly, "After all the darkness I've seen, the wasted lives, and the horrors of this war, she's become my bright spot. When she's near I can forget all my problems for a little while, or at least I have someone to share them with. We fight so well together. She is fearless; she doesn't back down from anything. And, Quae, she understands! I explained everything I could think of to her, about being a druid and an elf, and she understood it. She even feels the same way. After so long, to finally find someone that accepts it... " He trailed off, his feelings plain on his face, and Quae smiled to herself.

"Well then, have you told her?" she asked him. He frowned slightly. "No, not yet." "And why not?" she pressed. "Are you going to stand by and wait for her to realize you're not a lost puppy, following her around? Have you even kissed her yet?" Alanon's hand went up to his cheek for a moment, seemingly of its own volition, before he stopped and blushed a little. "Well..." Quae's grin became suddenly all too knowing, and he returned to glaring at her. "Alright, brother. Peace," she said. "But why haven't you told her?" "Because I don't want her to just think she feels the same for me," he replied, with a stubborn set to his jaw. "Because I don't want to force her into anything more before she's ready. It has to be what she wants." "And how will you know that, unless you ask her?" Quae retorted, and he sighed. Again. "I don't know, Quae," he said quietly. "I just don't feel it's the right time yet."

Quae snorted softly, then patted his knee. "Well, I talked to her a bit when we were all at Scholomance. Maybe it will be the 'right time' soon." Alanon went perfectly still, though Quae didn't realize anything was wrong until he said, in a flat voice, "You did what?" Alarmed, she looked at him. He was staring straight ahead, not even looking at her, and the anger on his face was enough to make her glad he wasn't. She had forgotten why it was a bad idea to make a druid mad, especially one as old as he was. "I, uh, talked to her. Just a bit. You know, a little, um, girl talk. Nothing serious." She realized she was babbling and made herself stop, waiting rather anxiously for his next response.

He just sat there for a few long minutes; she could almost see him counting to ten in his head. Finally he took a deep breath, letting it out slowly, then turned to her, calmer now. "And what, exactly, did you 'talk' about?" he asked. "Well, I asked her what her interest in you was," she said slowly. "And I... uh, told her a story." "A story," he said, the flat tone returning. "And what story was that, little sister?" Now it was her turn for a deep breath. "Nothing about you," she said. "I told her about a foolish priestess who fell in love with a death knight, but waited to tell him until it was almost too late." Alanon blinked in surprise and stared at her; he knew very well who she was talking about. After a moment, however, his eyes narrowed. "Her interest in me? How is that your business, Quae?" "Oh, get over it, brother," she said, exasperated. "You may be perfectly happy avoiding the topic until the end of the world comes, but a few of us would like to see you actually happy before then." She paused and looked at him from the corner of her eyes. "Besides, aren't you at least a little curious?"

He continued staring at her for several more minutes before he finally glanced away. Taking a deep breath, then letting it out slowly, he turned back to Quae, one eyebrow raised. She couldn't quite keep a small smile from her face. "She's pretty well smitten, I think," she told him. "I believe if you did say something, it would be quite gladly received." Alanon did not reply, but it seemed that a weight had lifted; he suddenly seemed much more relaxed. "Well then," he said. "If you're done prying into my business, maybe it's my turn now." He looked at her again, pinning her with his gaze. "When are you going to tell Barraccus what you've been up to?"

Quae's face was carefully expressionless. "Whatever are you talking about, dear brother?" she said, but he snorted. "Come on, Quae. I know exactly what you're doing, and it shouldn't be kept a secret. I'm not going to tell you to stop; in fact I'm willing to help you if I can. But he needs to know, too. You two are growing too close for a secret like this."

Quae held out for a second longer, then her face fell. "I know that," she said quietly. "But I'm not quite ready to tell him yet. I need more information; it's bad enough I'm getting my own hopes up, I can't let him start hoping too if it turns out I'm wrong." She sighed. "I will tell him soon, I promise- but not yet, please." Alanon studied her carefully, then nodded. "So long as you do it soon. And remember, Quae, if you don't tell him, I will." She nodded back, reluctantly, before standing up.

"I have to get back now, he's waiting for me," she said, and he nodded again. "Just remember, little sister," he said softly. She bent down to hug him quickly, then with a final glance, she left.

Quae found Barraccus near the portals. He turned quickly at her approach, relief obvious in his face and voice. "All set now?" he asked her, and she nodded. "Ready to get back," she said as she took his hand and started toward their portal. "Are you ever going to tell me what you two always talk about?" he asked teasingly. He was startled when she suddenly stopped and looked at him searchingly. After a moment she grinned at him. "Maybe," she replied, teasing back, then pulled him onward. Together they stepped through the portal back to Outland.

Quae: To Outland

Quae hit level 58 at last! Got tired of running dungeons so she just did quests, with her personal bodyguard doing most of the work. >.>

Duoing is fun.

And Pitch is up to 70! I been busy, despite my cold.

I said before that I had a story ready to go for when she hit Outlands, so here it is. Enjoy!
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The Temple of the Moon, located in the night elf capital Darnassus, was where Elune's priestesses- and now occasionally priests- were trained. Some elves considered it to be the most important- and beautiful- building there. Inside the priestesses held sway, guiding their people according to Elune's wishes. Acolytes of all ages and skill levels went here and there, carrying out the orders of their elders. Like good little sheep, Quae thought cynically, going where they are led and doing whatever they're told.

Gazing at the huge Temple now, she wondered how many of them saw it for what it really was- a prison, where you either conformed to popular belief or were cast out. Or sometimes... Quae dismissed that thought without completing it. She followed her escort up the ramp, the pair of Sentinels silent. Neither of them had said a word after the perfunctory "Come with us, please" when they found her, almost the moment she had stepped through the portal. Like they had been waiting for her. The thought gave her shivers.

Once inside she was brought before a handful of senior priestesses, ones she knew by face if not by name. The eldest motioned her to sit on a bench, then they all gathered around in front of her. "Junior Priestess Quae Stormbough," intoned the youngest of the group, placing the slightest emphasis on her rank. "You have been brought before this council because we received word that you have been consorting with a former member of the Scourge, an undead known as Barraccus." Quae blinked in surprise. Before she could do more than that, the priestess went on. "This behavior apparently has been going on for some time, and is unbecoming to a priestess of Elune as well as against our laws. You are here to receive judgment."

"Wait a moment," protested Quae. "That 'undead' is a night elf and a knight of the Ebon Blade. He hasn't been a member of the Scourge for almost a year, and has proven his allegiance to the Alliance many times over." "That is beside the point," interrupted another priestess. "It is against our principles, as you should well know. We won't stand for it." All of them stared at Quae hard.

This was bad, oh yes. Quae briefly wondered if one of these priestesses had seen her with Barraccus or if someone had ratted her out, then realized that it didn't matter. She swallowed hard as it hit her that they could have her quietly "disposed of" if they decided it was called for. Or... they could simply remake her, by invading her mind and removing or changing her memories. It had been done before, although not to anyone Quae had known personally. There was that junior priestess that assisted the librarian, though, who walked around every day with a vacant smile on her face; if you talked to her she seemed normal enough, but her responses were almost automatic, like a gnomish robot. She shivered inside again.

Some of her fear must have showed in her expression, because a few of the priestess' faces softened. Slightly. That actually made her worry more, rather than less. Finally the head priestess told her, "Look, girl, we've all been young before, and know how it feels. Perhaps he just came on to you, and you didn't know how to say no." She paused, giving Quae a chance to agree, to place all the blame on Barraccus, and maybe worm her way back into their good graces.

And maybe a pink elekk would fly up and tell her she was really the long-lost princess of Stormwind. Barraccus didn't deserve any of this, any more than she did. Her anger flared up, temporarily consuming her fear, and she stood. "I can't lie to you, priestesses," she stated, and a couple of them began smiling in triumph. Those smiles quickly turned to surprise, however, as she continued. "He did nothing of the sort. Truthfully, I wanted it at least as much as he did. You could probably say we seduced each other."

The other priestesses stood looking at her in shock. The eldest was the first to recover. Quae felt her bravado fade as a slow, not-at-all-pleasant smile spread across her face. "You just sealed it, girl," she hissed. "Did you think we were going to stand it much longer anyway? First you ran away when we refused, and rightly so, to teach you shadow magic. Then you returned and claimed that Elune herself said you were to be taught. I still don't know what witchery you did to make the High Priestess agree. Then you leave your poor parents to live with your filthy druid siblings, making everyone sick with worry for you. Now you think you can flaunt your... relationship... with a cursed undead, and we won't do anything about it? The High Priestess may have you under her wing, but she can't stop what she doesn't know about." With a satisfied smirk on her face, she snapped her fingers at the two Sentinels and motioned at Quae. "Take her to a penitentiary cell," she ordered. "We'll be back for her tonight. Make sure no one even knows she's there." With that, she and the other priestesses turned and walked away.

For a moment, Quae was frozen with fear. Then, as the guards came up and reached for her arms, she snapped back to herself and made to get away. One of the guards grabbed her, and Quae saw shadows start to flicker around the edges of her vision. The shadows nearby moved toward her and began slithering up her body and down her arms. The guard that had grabbed her let go in surprise and swore, "Elune-cursed priests!" Before Quae could do anything with her new-found freedom, the other guard stepped up with her sword drawn, and struck Quae across the temple with the hilt. The shadows fled as she fell down into darkness.

* * * * * *

Quae awoke in a dark, cramped cell. Raising her aching head carefully, she took in her surroundings. She was laying on a small cot, and there was a tiny desk and chair next to the bed. Across the room was the door, which was closed and, she was certain, locked and guarded. Everything else had been removed- the lamp and any books and writing materials were all gone. For a moment, fear and outrage battled for supremacy inside her, and she fought down the urge to go to the door and start screaming. Right now she wasn't sure if she would be screaming threats at those who held her prisoner, or begging to be allowed another chance. Finally her nerves settled down, and she began weighing her options. First, she supposed, she had better make certain the door was guarded.

Pitch had taken a great deal of pleasure in teaching her outdoor survival skills when they were both much younger. She put them to use now, as she crept silently to the door and listened. There was definitely a guard on the other side, but it sounded like only one. The other was probably either resting or posted further down the hall, where she couldn't hear. She sat back on the cot with a sigh, not even bothering to try the door handle.

Quae found herself thinking about the others, her friends and loved ones. Especially Barraccus. Would she ever see him again? Would she even recognize him if she did? Should she have said what she did, or should she have played along with them? She made herself stop right there; it was too late to change anything now. She honestly wasn't worried that they would kill her. She was pretty powerful in her own right, and they would want to keep her around; they would just make her more... malleable. She shuddered again.

Her thoughts wandered back to Barraccus. He was due to be home tonight, and would be wondering where she had gone. Her heart ached as she thought of how worried he'd be. She thought back over the last few months and asked herself, had it been worth it? She could see his face in her mind, as clear as if he was standing in front of her, and the look in his eyes each time he saw her, the way it felt when he held her... Yes, she thought. It had been worth it, a thousand times over.

She leaned back on the cot and lost herself in her memories, not caring when the tears started. She sat and remembered until at last the strain overcame her, and she dozed off and dreamed she was back at home.

* * * * * *

Quae sat bolt upright. She didn't know what had woken her, but she was suddenly afraid the priestesses had come back. Heart in her throat, she waited, staring at the door.

There was a soft scraping sound, as if something heavy was being dragged away from the door, then a faint clink she realized came from the keys. The door creaked open slowly, and her visitor stepped into view.

It was Alanon.

Quae just stared disbelievingly for several seconds, then with a choked-off cry she lunged forward, wrapping her arms around her brother. He held her for a moment, shushing her softly as she sobbed in relief, then gently pulled back. "Quae, we have to hurry. I don't know when they're coming back for you," he said, his voice low. "Yes, I know," she replied, quickly pulling herself back together. She wiped her face on her sleeve, then took a deep breath. "How did you know where I was?" she asked, as they stepped past the unconscious guard outside the door. Alanon grinned. "Arien. She happened to be in Darnassus and spotted you with those guards. She noticed you didn't look happy, so she followed you to the Temple, then called me over the buzzbox." "Do me a favor, big brother, and kiss her next time you see her," Quae said feelingly, and he chuckled. She never would have thought she'd be so happy to hear that sound.

She was all nerves as they made their way out of the Temple through the back passageways. Alanon led the way, stopping often to listen for sounds of pursuit, but it seemed her rescue hadn't been discovered yet. They finally made it outside, where Alanon allowed only a short pause before hurrying her away from the Temple and toward the portal to Rut'theran. He didn't risk the flight master, taking her to the boat instead. During the trip he gave her a short description of how he had sneaked into the Temple, staying in cat form to better follow her scent when he found it, then waiting til all was quiet before incapacitating the guards and unlocking her door. The boat ride was a short one, and he cut the story short as they docked at Auberdine. Before going out on deck he stopped Quae and handed her a cloak. "Should have had this sooner, but I wasn't exactly prepared to smuggle you out from under the priestesses' noses." Quae chuckled at his attempt at humor, a trace of hysteria audible just under the surface. He looked at her sharply. "Almost safe now, Quae," he reassured her. "Don't fall apart just yet."

He helped her off the boat and they hurried down the dock. Quae kept the cloak's hood pulled low over her face, leaving just enough uncovered to see where she was going. Alanon led her out into the Darkshore forest, and finally he stopped and let out a low whistle. Nearby the brush stirred, then came a voice Quae had feared she might never hear again. "Alanon? Did you get her?" Barraccus asked anxiously. "Yes, she's here," the druid replied as the death knight stepped out of the trees he was hiding in. His eyes met Quae's as she pushed the hood back. A second later she was in his arms, trying to hold back a sob as she wrapped her arms around his chest. "Oh Quae, Quae, I thought I lost you," he said softly as he held her tightly. "Are you alright, love?" She looked up at his face; he seemed to be fighting back tears as well. "Now I am," she replied.

Alanon soon had a small fire going. Quae sat next to Barraccus, leaning against him for reassurance. The stress of the last few hours and the resulting weariness were starting to make everything seem surreal to her. She wasn't even surprised when Pitch and Jahira came up, with Jahira bringing Riptik with her. Pitch had apparently been scouting, and he spoke with Alanon in whispers as Quae picked Rip up and held him close. The tiny wolvar seemed to understand that something serious had happened and didn't squirm like he usually did, instead sitting quietly in her lap and patting his "mother" on the arm. After a few minutes the two druids came over.

"Pitch says all is clear," Alanon told them. "Now we need to decide what to do next. Going home I think is out of the question; they probably already have guards sent there to bring you back." "What about Winterspring?" Barraccus asked. Alanon shook his head. "Quae's name may not be on the papers, but they know now that you two are together, and I'm sure that will be the next place they look." Barraccus frowned in frustration, his face dark. Alanon continued. "I don't think the Moonglade would be a good idea either. It's not a big place, and the druids won't stop the priestesses from doing anything there, so long as it doesn't disturb the Glade."

Quae looked at all of them, sitting around her trying to make sure of her safety, and felt a rush of warmth. "Well," she said finally. "I can think of a possible place. It's big enough to hide in for a long time, and the priestesses don't have any sway there." Alanon quirked an eyebrow at her, then suddenly grinned in approval as he caught on. The others looked at her in confusion, waiting for her to explain. She looked each one in the face, then allowed herself a small smile. "Outland, of course." Pitch started grinning widely, as the others all glanced at each other in relief. "All right, sounds perfect," said Barraccus. "But I'm coming with you, at least for the first few weeks." She smiled at him and squeezed his hand. "She'll be all right, brother," Pitch broke in. "I can watch over her too."

Alanon looked at them all, seeing agreement in all faces. "It's settled then. At first light we start for the Dark Portal."

* * * * * *

They reached the Portal before noon the next day, and gathered together in front of it. Quae looked at Alanon and Jahira, standing back a bit from the others, then stepped over and hugged them both. "Thank you for coming after me," she said quietly. "You know we would have," Alanon replied. "That's what families do, they watch out for each other." She smiled at him, then stepped back to Barraccus' side. The death knight shifted Rip in his arms so he could take her hand. "Ready?" She nodded, then glanced back to her brother and sister again and waved. They waved back as, with Barraccus beside her and Pitch trailing behind, she stepped through the Portal into Outland.

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Probably going to cheat a bit & have Barraccus run her through the Outland dungeons for a bit before she starts questing. The hard part will be dividing my time between her and Pitch. I'm hoping to get them both to 80 in a couple months, giving myself time off to avoid burnout.

And now I need to crash. Goodnight and Happy Hunting!

Quae and Barraccus Move To Winterspring

Wanted to get this out of the way. Quae is 55 now and will be hitting Outland soon, so right now story progression is good.
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"You're leaving us?" Pitchblack looked at Quae mournfully. She swatted at him. "I'll still be around," she said."Just not at home much anymore. Besides, it's not like we all see each other much anyway. You don't even write." Pitch chuckled. "I bet you just got tired of us being around when Barraccus is home," he teased. Quae grinned back at him. "My dear brother, whatever would give you that idea?" They both laughed.

Pitch was the first one to sober. "I really am glad you two are together. He's a great guy." Quae eyed him, then chuckled again. "Are you just saying that because he's been out with you in Zangarmarsh all week?" she teased him. He grinned. "Well, maybe. But really, if I got to choose another brother, I'd pick him for sure." Quae reached over and patted his hand. "Good," was all she said.

Quae suddenly stood. "I've got to go, he's probably waiting for me." "Where are you off to this time?" Pitch asked her. "Blackrock Mountain," she answered. "Going to give some Dark Iron dwarves a hard time." She grinned wickedly, and he laughed again, then waved her off. "Go on and have fun, little sister," he said, and she waved and headed out.

* * * * * *



Quae and Barraccus left the Winterspring flight master hand-in-hand. They both appeared lost in thought. Riptik slept quietly in his little pocket on the outside of Barraccus' backpack as they headed to the stable for their mounts, then rode out into the snow. Quae finally broke the silence. "I believe we can trust Vestala," she said, and Barraccus nodded. "She seems a good sort. We just need to be careful how many people find out about us." "I know," Quae said quietly. "Kal and I were just talking, and she snuck up on us." "Quae, it's fine," he interrupted. "You don't need to apologize."

They rode in silence for a bit, then Quae asked, "So where exactly is this house?" Barraccus turned Oscor down the road to Starfall Village at about that moment. "Down here," he said, and rode ahead. Quae quickly urged Moon after him. When she caught up with him, he had left the trail and was circling around a little cottage, sitting by itself near the village. "Here it is," he said grandly, and they both swung down from their mounts and entered. Quae looked all around the small house as Barraccus carefully removed Riptik from his pocket, then placed him in a ready-made nest near the fireplace. The wolvar pup barely made a peep as he was settled into his bed, still snoozing.

He straightened up as she turned to face him. "I like it," she declared, and he chuckled. "Good thing, since I already put my money down. It's mine now, or rather ours." He said the last part warmly, as he stepped over and put one arm around her. She rested her cheek against his chest, still looking around a bit. "The bearskin rug is a nice touch," she commented. "Yes," Barraccus replied. "The floor gets a bit cold." "A bit? I would think so," she laughed, pulling back from him. She then began fiddling with his armor, trying to unfasten the shoulder-guards. He raised one eyebrow at her. "And what are you up to now?" he asked, though his expression said he knew exactly what. She grinned wickedly at him. "Well, I'd like to see how warm the bed is next." "Mhmm. Normally I think you'd test that by sleeping in it." Her grin stretched wider. "I do intend to sleep in it. Eventually." His crooked grin started to spread across his face, as he began helping her with his armor.

Barraccus and Quae: Riptik

My apologies to all blood elf mages for this story. ;)
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Barraccus entered the Kalu'ak village, holding the fur-lined leather bag like it contained fine Dalaran crystal. He found the tuskarr he needed and handed the bag over gently. "Here they are, a dozen wolvar pups," he said, trying to hide his distaste. The tuskarr, Mau'i, took the bag just as gently, motioning to another tuskarr as he placed it on the ground. It squeaked as he turned it over so the pups could scramble out. "I thank you, Barraccus," the portly fellow said as he and the other- a female, Barraccus thought, though he couldn't tell them apart well enough to be sure- herded the little ones toward a small hut off to the side.

"Did the adults give you any trouble?" Mau'i asked him, as the female tuskarr took over the pups, waving him away. Barraccus shook his head. "No, a Sin'dorei mage had just gone through the camp. I just followed the trail and found the little ones hiding in the tents." Mau'i nodded sadly. "I wish we didn't have to do this, but the wolvar leave us little choice," he said. Barraccus just nodded as he looked around the small Kalu'ak village called Moa'ki Harbor. He winced as a lucky shot from one of the hidden wolvar warriors took down a tuskarr guard, but fortunately the guard was only wounded and soon made his way to the healer, as another warrior took his place in the defense line.

The death knight left shortly after. He decided to ride Oscor rather than flying out on Berk, and followed the trail through the wolvar village, not paying much attention to his surroundings. Until, that is, he heard a whimper as he passed by one tent.

Barraccus quickly stopped Oscor and looked around. He recognized the tent as one he had passed while he had been collecting the pups for the Kalu'ak. The charred bodies of the blood elf's victims still lay nearby. He dismounted and began searching the tent and its surroundings. He had thought that he had found all the pups here, but realized that he had missed one when he saw a pair of bright, beady eyes staring at him from the back of the tent. Barraccus crouched down at the entrance, trying to look as non-threatening as possible, and clucked to the frightened pup.

It took almost an hour for the pup to finally leave its hiding spot and creep closer. Barraccus couldn't feel his feet and his legs were starting to cramp, but he didn't dare move as the young wolvar, little more than an infant, came close enough to sniff his hand. It looked up at him and whined pitifully, then made a grumbling noise that Barraccus took for speech. "If you're looking for your mama, I'm afraid she can't help you anymore," he told it softly. At the sound of his voice, the baby sidled closer, then latched onto his wrist and buried its face into his sleeve, its sharp little claws clinging. Barraccus coaxed it into his lap, then stood up unsteadily. He cradled the pup close as he stomped some feeling back into his feet, then went back to Oscor.

When he presented the pup to Mau'i, however, the tuskarr shook his head. "I'm afraid we had you bring in the largest number we could handle," he said. "We don't have the space or resources for even one more." "But-" Barraccus cut off his protest as he looked around Moa'ki and could tell that the tuskarr's words were true. He looked down at the pup, now sleeping in the crook of his arm. "Then what should I do with him?" he asked. "You could always take him back. The wolvar would not abandon one of their own. But..." Mau'i trailed off meaningfully, and Barraccus finished the thought for him. "But he will grow up as savage as the others, and only cause trouble like his kin." The death knight sighed.

Mau'i gently tickled the pup's ears; he growled softly in his sleep. "Why not take him home?" he asked the death knight. "You could raise him yourself, you know. He's already becoming attached to you." Barraccus looked thoughtful for a minute. "I might do that," he said, "But I need to make sure it's okay first." "Oh really?" replied Mau'i, surprised. "Okay with who?" Barraccus grinned at him. "My other half," he said.

* * * * * *

Quae's new saber Moon was in the stable when Barraccus arrived at home. None of the other mounts were there, which was fine with Barraccus; he and Quae were alone. The wolvar pup had woken up during the ride from Astranaar and now sat up in his arms, looking around with bright eyes.

After spending some time with a Kalu'ak who understood some of the wolvar tongue, Barraccus had learned that the pup was old enough to know his name, at least, and was called Riptik. Now as he carried the baby into the house, he hoped Quae was in a good mood.

He found her in the kitchen, washing a few dishes. She looked up when he came in and smiled. "Hey," she said. "I wasn't sure when you would get here, so I already had some supper. Did you want anything?" "No, I'm fine," he quickly replied. "But, um, Quae? I need to show you something." She looked at him curiously, then followed him into the main room.

He stopped and picked up a bundle that she couldn't see clearly, then stood with his back turned, hiding whatever he was holding. "Quae," he began. "I know that we decided not to start any kind of family until after Arthas was taken care of, but, umm, well you know that sometimes things happen." "Alright, Barraccus," Quae interrupted. "What did you do now?" "Have you heard of the Kalu'ak?" he asked her in response, looking back over his shoulder. She thought she heard a growl come from whatever he was holding, but wasn't sure. "No- wait, yes. Alanon told me about them," she replied. "They're some kind of animal-men, like the Tauren." "Yea," Barraccus said, more quickly now. "I've been helping some of them in the Dragonblight, at a village called Moa'ki. They're under attack by a tribe of creatures called wolvar. I've captured some of the wolvar pups for them from time to time, so the Kalu'ak can raise the pups to be friendly and not attack them. That's had... mixed results," he admitted.

Quae studied him, trying to see what he was hiding again. "That's all fine, but what about them?" she asked. "Weelll...." Barraccus trailed off, then finally turned around. In his arms was a fuzzy little creature that looked vaguely humanoid, obviously a baby. "This is Riptik," Barraccus told her. "He's an orphan now. A blood elf went through his part of the village right before I did, and... well, you can guess, I'm sure." Quae nodded, not taking her eyes off the pup. "Yes I can. Sin'dorei are bloody in more than just the name." She stepped closer, holding one hand out to the pup. "What is he doing here, then?" she asked, although she thought she knew the answer. "Well, the Kalu'ak said that perhaps we could raise him ourselves," Barraccus said. "I'd like to give it a try, at least, but it's really up to you."

Quae didn't answer for a long time, instead getting to know the little creature in his arms. She thought hard as she gently scritched his head. Barraccus had never hidden the fact that he wanted a family, and for that matter, so did she. She knew they would have to adopt; Barraccus' undead state prevented him from fathering his own kids, a fact that gave her no little pain, especially when she thought of how much he had loved his own sons, now long dead. She wasn't sure how they would work things out if they kept this little one, but she could tell he wanted it, and there were some things she just couldn't tell him no about.

Finally she looked up, into his hopeful eyes. "Yes," she said. "We'll keep him." He broke into a huge grin, and she knew it was the right decision. He sat down on the nearest chair and settled Riptik on his lap. "Rip," he said gently. "Your mama can't take care of you anymore. But if you want, Quae here can be your new mama." Riptik looked from him to Quae, his eyes bright, then growled, "Mamma." He then promptly opened his mouth and pointed at it meaningfully.

Barraccus warmed up some meat and chopped it up finely, while Quae raided the nursing supplies that Pitch kept on hand for any orphaned animals he found. Soon enough Riptik was bedded down in a corner of the kitchen, his stomach full, fast asleep.

Barraccus spent a few moments making sure he was tucked in snugly before joining Quae upstairs. As he slid into bed next to her, she grinned impishly at him. "Anything else you wanted to show me tonight?" He gave her his crooked grin. "Maybe how much I've missed you," he said teasingly, then leaned in for a kiss.

Sometime in the middle of the night, they were woken by a thin, high-pitched cry. It took Quae a moment to remember what it could be. Oh, right, the little one. She fumbled for a robe, only to be stopped by Barraccus' hand on her arm. "I'll get him," he whispered, then was gone. She heard him padding down the stairs as she groggily wondered if he had even been asleep.

Riptik soon stopped crying, but fussed every time they tried to put him back down. Finally they let him stay on the bed, and all three fell back asleep, with the little wolvar snuggled between his new parents.
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And that's how they got their wolvar pup. Hurray for the Northrend orphan quests, hehe.

In Which Alanon And Quae Have A Talk

Quae stared at the goblin in disbelief. "I only need you to keep her for a few hours. You're charging enough for a month's care. How do you figure that out?" she demanded. Nearby, her recently-acquired frostsaber lay quietly in the Tanaris heat, looking around lazily and yawning every now and then.

The gobbo stable master stared back at Quae insolently. "That's our price, lady," he said. "Ya got a problem with it, take it up with the big boss." "Okay, where can I find him?" she asked. He smirked. "Undermine." Quae stared again, then said a few words that would probably have shocked any of her siblings if they had heard.

They were interrupted by the postman, another goblin, who tugged on Quae's sleeve and presented her with a letter. "Yer mail, lady," he muttered, then shuffled off. Quae watched him go- did the gobbos run the whole place?- then looked to her letter. It was from Alanon.

Quae,

I would like to talk with you at your earliest convenience. I'll be at home.

Alanon

She blinked, then read it again. What did he want to talk about? And why did he sound so... formal? That usually meant he was troubled by something. Quickly she ran through a mental list of everything she had done in the last couple weeks. She certainly hadn't done anything. Neither had Barraccus as far as she knew. Her curiosity piqued, she turned around quickly- and almost crashed into the darned stable master, who had been trying to read over her shoulder. She looked at him coolly. "You're in luck," she told him. "I'll need to take her with me after all." She walked over to Moon, who quickly stood at her approach, and swung up into the saddle, then touched her heels to the frostsaber's flanks and headed toward home.

* * * * * *

Alanon paced restlessly in the house. He still wasn't sure about writing to Quae, but he didn't know their cousins well at all, and she did. He just hoped she wouldn't give him too hard of a time about this. He almost jumped when he heard her ride into the yard, then made himself stand still as he waited for her to come in.

She looked rather irritated and disheveled when she walked in. Uh oh, he thought. Trouble with the goblins again, I bet. She plunked herself down in a chair and began muttering. "Stupid greedy greenskins. I bet if they could package the world and sell it off, they would auction it to the highest bidder with no qualms." Yep, goblins. She shook her head, then looked at him. "Hey big brother," she said in greeting. "I'm here, what did you want to talk about?" Suddenly he was at a loss for words. "Umm," he stammered. "I was, ah, wondering, um, if you could, maybe, ah..." Quae looked at him in amazement, one eyebrow slowly raising. He stopped himself and took a deep breath. "You know our Stormwind cousins better than I do," he stated. "Would you, maybe, mind talking to Kal for me?" He waited to see how she responded.

She stared at him, and slowly a knowing grin spread across her face. "Are you being serious? You're actually interested in someone?" She chuckled, then abruptly stood and went to the door, looking out at the sky. "Quae," he said flatly. "What are you doing?" "Checking for flying pink elekks," she replied. "Or, you know, the trees turning upside-down or something." She came back in with a huge grin, and sat back down in her chair. He gave her a sour look. "I'd like you to be a little more serious, Quae," he said, but she paid him no attention. "So who's the lucky girl?" she asked him, then suddenly looked at him. "It is a girl right? You're not going to try marrying a bear or something like Pitch did, are you?" He frowned. "Pitch did not-" Stopping himself again, he took another deep breath. She just waited, looking at him expectantly. Finally, his face expressionless, he simply said, "Arien."

Quae blinked at that. "Kal's friend?" she said. "Wow, that is a surprise." He glared at her, but she was ignoring him again. "So what did you want me to do?" Alanon rubbed his face with both hands, then sat down on another chair nearby. "I hardly know her," he said. "I mean, we've talked, but nothing really about each other. Mostly just about whatever we were doing at the time. So, would you just talk to Kal a bit for me? I'd like to know more about her." Quae blinked at him again. "And why can't you just talk to her yourself?" "I..., I just can't," he said. "Not yet, at least." "Well, the first thing you should know," she told him, "is that Kal and Arien are best friends. They don't have any secrets from each other. Which means if I talk to Kal, Arien will hear about it." Alanon looked a little sheepish. "Well, that would be an easy way to let her know I'm interested," he said quietly, then shook his head. "But that's a coward's way out. I couldn't do that to her." He groaned, rubbing his forehead with one hand.

Quae watched him, finally growing serious. "Alanon, why can't you just talk to Arien yourself? She's not hard to talk to, you just said you already have, sort of." "I...," he trailed off, and she studied him, understanding dawning in her eyes. "It's because of last time, isn't it?" she asked softly. He just looked at her. "Listen, big brother," Quae said seriously. "Arien isn't going to run away just because you asked her, oh, where she grew up or something like that. She's a bit tougher than that." "I, I think I know that," he said quietly. "So what is wrong, big brother?" she pressed. Alanon opened his mouth and closed it again. Finally, "What if she doesn't want to be with an elf? Or a druid?" The words sounded forced, and she could see he was having a hard time with them. She reached over and patted his knee. "Why would that be a problem, eh?" "Quae, look at me," he said. "I'm almost eight thousand years old, but do I look it? Even after Nordrassil fell, we haven't aged much at all. Will she want to be with someone that will outlast her that much? And what if I get called back to the Dream again? What if I get stuck there, like Malfurion? Even if that doesn't happen, I'll still be gone for who knows how long. What if she can't accept that?"

Quae looked at him for a minute. "That's what happened last time, isn't it? That's why she left you." He stared at her, and she could see the pain he still felt in his eyes. She gently squeezed his knee again. "Okay, I think I know what your problem is," she said. "Think about this a second, Alanon. How is this different than worrying about getting killed in battle or something?" He was silent for a minute, staring at his hands in his lap, then he looked up. "I didn't really think about it that way," he said sheepishly. "Obviously," Quae said dryly. "So, is that any different?" "I suppose not, not really," he said slowly. "Although I'm still going to have to explain things to her. I don't want any more... misunderstandings." Quae grinned and patted his knee again, then leaned over and hugged him. "There you go then. Now all you have to do is talk to her." Alanon glanced up at her. "Quae, thank you," he said softly. "Don't mention it," she replied. "It's not often I get to give my big brother advice. I need to treasure the moment." She grinned impishly at him as he snorted.

At that moment his buzzbox crackled, and Arien's voice came over the frequency. "Hello? Um, Alanon, you there?" Quae gave him a look that practically pushed him over to the box. He picked it up and looked at her nervously, then pressed the button. "Arien, hello. I'm here." "Oh hey," she said quickly. "These druids here in Zangarmarsh need me to help some lost friends, would you be able to come watch my back?" He couldn't quite keep a smile off his face as he replied, "Sure, I'll head right over."

Quae and Alanon: Discovery

Quae stood on the porch and watched Barraccus ride off, then went back into the house and fixed herself a cup of tea. She took it with her as she walked out to the spot on the beach where she and Barraccus had been the other day, and sipped it while she sat down and watched the waves.

She liked Barraccus, very much. But she wasn't sure how much he liked her, and he seemed so dense sometimes! She wondered if she should just tell him what she felt, but she didn't want to make a fool of herself if he didn't feel the same way. She also had the feeling sometimes that he was hiding something, though she didn't know what it could be.

After an hour or so, she stood up and went back to the house. Alanon was up by then, poking around in the kitchen for breakfast. He looked up when she entered and said," Oh good. Quae, I want to show you something, but don't tell any of the others about it." She followed him out to the main room, feeling puzzled, and watched as he looked through one of the bookshelves. He turned with a letter in his hand. "I wrote to the head of the Darnassus Sentinels several days ago, and finally got an answer. Barraccus told me that he thought he might have been a Sentinel before he became a death knight. Here, tell me what you think." He handed her the letter.

Dear sir,

Regarding your request for information about a Sentinel named Barraccus. We have no one of that name in our forces right now, so I went through our archives. We did have someone by that name with us several years ago. Unfortunately, he and his family left to visit relatives in Lordaeron, and they disappeared. Shortly after this was when we learned that Lordaeron had been taken by the Scourge. We believe they are dead. Please accept our condolences if this Barraccus was a friend or relative of yours.

Quae looked at her brother, eyes wide. "So now we know roughly when it happened. All that's left is how, and what happened to his family," she said, and he nodded. "I think that he needs to find this out on his own. Don't tell anyone else, and do not mention it to him, please," he said, and she nodded.

Quae and the diary/Barraccus in Darnassus

Today you totally get a two-for-one deal. Woohoo! And for only 10 gold more, I'll throw in this lovely- er, nevermind. Got carried away for a bit. >.>

Crison and I are collaborating again, go check out his Chapter 10 & 11 to know what's going on in Quae's story.
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Quae closed the small book with a sigh of frustration. She glanced at the draenei in the bed next to hers to make sure he was still sleeping, then slid Rhokk's diary back into his pack on the floor. She had been reading it secretly whenever she could ever since she had met Rhokk. She knew she shouldn't, but he was so secretive about some things! So she just tried to make sure he didn't catch her.

His latest entry was especially worrying. She had thought he looked more tired than his trip would have made him, but she hadn't known he was injured. They had ran into each other here in Theramore earlier that day; she was on her way to Feathermoon Stronghold in Feralas, he wouldn't tell her where he was going. Now she knew why. Tanaris was a very long trip, and he was hurt, struck by a worgen while they passed through Silverpine a few days earlier. He hadn't told either her or Jahira, because of his Elune-curse-it pride. At least according to his diary, the humans at Southshore had patched him up, but she thought he still looked awfully weak.

She had subtly cast a quick spell on him earlier, to check for diseases, and had come up with nothing. So whatever was wrong with him was nothing she could cure. She wondered if she should try to hold him here while she sent for Jahira or Alanon, but they were far away in Northrend and she didn't want to worry them. Besides, she didn't think he would stay here longer than it took for the sun to come up. She briefly thought of her brother Pitch, and wondered if sitting on him would work.

She worried about him, and had since they had first met. He sometimes seemed too anxious to do things, especially if it was connected to his lost memories. And he seemed to think that he had to do everything by himself. She was beginning to think of him as a brother, like Pitch or Alanon, and didn't want anything bad to happen to him.

Quae looked over at Rhokk again, just as a shudder seemed to come over him, and his face twisted a bit in pain. She sighed again, then pulled her blanket up and settled into bed. She tried to fall asleep for several minutes, only to give up with a growl. She glanced over again to make sure Rhokk still slept- he did- and carefully dug out the diary again. Maybe there was some hint inside that would help her figure out what was wrong....


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Barraccus was extremely nervous as he stepped off the boat in Rut'theran Village. He had not been to his race's home city since, well, he didn't know when. Certainly not after he had become a death knight. He was afraid of the reaction he might get, after seeing how much death knights were feared and loathed in other areas. But Alanon had suggested, rather strongly in fact, that he get a saber mount of his own. The druid hoped that if he didn't have to ride his death charger everywhere, people might come to accept him easier, especially when he was ready to step into Northrend himself. So Barraccus found himself heading to the night elf capital. With a deep breath to steady his nerves, he stepped through the portal into Darnassus.

The night elf city was beautiful, even to the non-elves who visited. He stopped for a moment to just look around, then headed to the Cenarion Enclave, where they kept and sold the riding sabers.

He found them with no problems; all he had to do was follow the sound of their roars and growls. There were six of them stabled there now, and he looked them over carefully. He quickly narrowed it down to a white female and a dark male, and asked the handler about them. "The white one comes from Winterspring, the dark one is from Feralas. They are about the same age, and either one would be perfect for you. I'll let you know, though, the male has been specially bred for going long distances. If you travel a lot, he might be better." Barraccus considered for awhile, then chose the male.

He asked about a name while he paid and waited for the saber to be harnessed. "We call him Storm, it's just what we call every one that looks like him, though, so feel free to change it. They are smart, it won't take him long to learn a new name." He nodded, then took the reins from her and swung into the saddle.

He rode back toward the portal at a slow walk, so as not to run over any of the crowd near the bank. As his new mount paced along, however, he had a sudden flashback, so strong that he almost fell out of his saddle.

He had done something like this before! He had ridden these streets, on a mount much like his current one. But what for? His gaze settled on one of the Sentinels nearby, and his thoughts spun...