War once again emerges on the horizon. The never ending struggle between the Alliance and the Horde once again calls for the steel, and the blood, of it’s citizens and heroes.
But a new threat, unseen, stalks both the sides. Unknown to them the former champion of the Ebon Blade and former hero of the Alliance Souldefiler has fallen into black evil.
Taking 5 of the champions with her as well two of her most trusted friends, she now plots to overthrow both sides, and rule forever as Empress of Azeroth, and have all serve as Devoted to her.
After consolidating her power on her hidden lair, she now prepares for her triumphant entrance into both capitals, to lay claim to all lands and to reward the Devoted, or punish the Defiant.
With her own power secured deep in her Tomb of the Betrayed, she knows that there is nothing that can stop her ascension once all has been prepared.
Stormwind. The Palace’s war chamber.
King Anduin paced around the chamber, anxiously waiting reports from his captains in the field. Around the table watching stood Genn Greymane, Jaina Proudmoore, Mathias Shaw, Moira Thaurassian. The Night Elf delegation stood by and made no sign.
In the corner studying their own maps were Alleria Windrunner and Turalyon, deep in conversation with other.
“This waiting is intolerable. Where are my captains? I can do nothing till I learn more.” Under his breath he muttered “And where do you hide now Wrathion. I need your help more than any other.”
Genn coughed and spoke softly. “Anduin. Patience. We only heard of the Horde gatherings two days ago. It would be folly to hope they would know all by now. And our champions have not yet returned either.”
“I know…” replied Anduin as he looked to the ceiling. “I know. Have they answered? They can be of enormous aid to us. Once again I fear they will be the only ones who can.”
Alleria stopped her conversation and made her way over. “I have called my disciples from the Void. They will come. All will come, in time.”
“Indeed… Here come 3 now” said Turalyon as Bors, Senna and Gia made their way into the chamber.
“Good. We can let you know somewhat of what we know” said Anduin. “Gather round all. This is the new island that we stumbled upon a few months back.
The Kul Tirans found it long ago on their excursions. They gave it no special thought and only mentioned it in tales of sea faring stories to frighten their children at bed times. We can use it as a major supply point in our efforts to send aid to Darkshore if we have the time and supplies to spare.”
At this the Night Elves stirred but still remained quiet.
Anduin glanced over to them. “I know we promised you our full aid in rebuilding your homes but again, more important matters have arisen. But I promise you, we will give you our undivided attention once this matter is resolved.” said Anduin. The Night elves never taking their glance from the 3 champions, did not reply.
Genn spoke. “We cannot and do not have the time nor supplies Anduin. Hard as it is, the Horde are still the greatest threat we face. The night Elves must continue to be patient.” At this the 3 Night Elves walked out of the chamber.
All now looked at Genn. “My apologies. I spoke out of turn and unwisely. One of our champions should speak to them, until such time I can offer my own apologies and I hope… aid.”
“Agreed…” said Jaina.
“I will go” said Gia. “Good luck” said Anduin. “I fear you will need it. Now. Champions. Come closer.” Bors and Senna stood over the map. “This is what we know so far. This island was un chartered until the Kul Tirans stumbled upon it.
We know nothing of but I have reports that some of our champions have visited it along with some Horde champions. I am not concerned with details, but I am aware that some of our heroes are on friendly terms with their Horde counterparts. As long as they do not betray us I see no issue.
I trust I am correct in this?”
“Yes my King” said Bors. “We have visited it, but only fleetingly. We did not have the time to fully explore it.”
“What did you learn or find? Did you see any Horde activity?” asked Genn.
“Only that with which we took with us, our two friends” said Senna, dropping her gaze and softly smiling whenever she caught Anduin’s eye.
“Tell us, please” said Anduin.
“All I can remember is spending the night on the coast. We had stopped to replenish our supplies as the Kul Tiran ship waited offshore. Being the best of our crew we took it upon ourselves to bring in fresh meat and water, and to allow us some respite from being cooped up in a cabin for long days and nights”
“I sympathize” said Jaina “and I come from sea faring stock. So you saw and heard no Horde activity?”
“None.” replied Senna and Bors.
“This tells us nothing we do not know already, which IS nothing” said Moira as she came over. “My Dark Irons cannot even pierce the earth beneath it with our mole drills. There is strange rock there. Very strange.”
“Meaning…?” asked Anduin.
“Exactly as I said. It is very strange that not even the Dark Irons can even make a chip in this rock. It is almost as if something was barring us from entry.”
“Could it be the Twilight Hammer cult?” asked Turalyon. “I am not familiar with their practices but I have heard they are somehow able to torture the very elements.”
“No…” said Anduin. “No. They do have that power, not anymore, now they are a mere shadow of their former glory, scattered like so many pieces of straw in a tempest. Wrathion assured me they are of no significant threat anymore.”
“But they are still out there” said Moira “They have not given up. This is their work. I assure you.”
“Could it be the Scourge?” asked Anduin looking to Jaina. “No” she replied. “They also have no such power. At least not that I know of them. Now I wish the death knight Souldefiler was here, she could give us more insight to the Scourge and it’s hidden powers.”
Senna started. “I something wrong? Has something happened to her?” asked Genn. “She would indeed be a great help. And you were friends if I recall.”
Senna again turned from Anduin’s gaze “I do not know where she is. I heard she disappeared with her two friends. I heard rumours that she finally met her True Death, as the undead call their second death. I have not heard from her for a while.”
“Anduin studied her face. “Indeed she would have been a great help. But if she is gone there is nothing we can do. Besides. We have other champions, she was not alone. I never fully trusted her anyway.”
“Why not?” asked Genn. “I would have not returned from Stormheim without her help”
“Maybe” replied Anduin. “She was arrogant, and seemed distant to our Alliance the last few years. I suspect she always secretly harbored desire to return to her Scourge where her power was absolute”.
“This gets us nowhere” said Turalyon “We are here to discuss this new strange land. Perhaps we should send out an expedition?”
“I agree” said Jaina. That sounds the best plan. Especially if the Horde are of the same mind. We could strengthen our position if we leave now.”
All agreed on Jaina’s proposal and Anduin closed the council. He came to Senna.
“Senna why do you not look at me? There is no regal superiority here, I do not require citizens nor champions to never look me in the eye as my ancestors long ago once did.”
Senna blushed and looked in his eyes. “I am sorry my king I did not mean to offend.”
Anduin smiled. “You did not. Come speak to me later.”
Senna bowed and left the chamber.
Jaina meanwhile had come to Bors who was waiting patiently. “Did you require something before we depart hunter?” she asked. Bors nodded. “Yes my lady. I have a message for you. and a token.”
“What is it?” asked Jaina as Bors held out his hand, dropping the trinket into her open palm. With only a pause only the keen could have noticed, she quickly closed her hand around it. “What is the meaning of this Bors” she whispered, furtively looking around. “Explain. Now!”
Bors replied “I can only say this. Shalakazor. I expect I will be hearing from you soon.” He bowed and left following Senna down the chamber to Stormwind. Jaina watched him leave before hurriedly retiring to her chamber.
Stormwind Old Town.
Bors opened the door to the rented house and stepped in, followed by Senna. “Where is Gia…?” asked Bors as he made sure no one was following as he closed and locked the door.
"He has requested an audience with Genn. His mission is to get Greymane out of this City when the time comes for our Mistress’ coming. Once he has accomplished it we begin. Suddenly she was struck rigid and blood ran down from her nose. She struggled violently and changed into the wolf form she had been cursed with.
Chanting an incantation, a blue fire sputtered into life. Both stood round it.
“You have done well” came the voice of Souldefiler. Both kneeled as her face came into view. “Has the King made his decision?”
“Not yet” said Bors. “But I have fulfilled my task and given Proudmoore the trinket you provided. I now await her reply”
“Good. She will summon you soon. When she does, she will reveal herself to you. Order her to make her way to me. Senna.”
Senna lifted her head awaiting orders “You desire Anduin. You shall have him. I want you to break his resolve. While young he harbors great power which if used against a weapon against us, could destroy us.
You are to use your guile and trickery to remove him from his advisors. Once done so, convince him they will betray him. Once he falls under your spell, he is yours to do with as you wish.”
“My Queen…” replied Senna bowing her head.
“When all is done, see to the city. Seek out the Devoted, and punish the Defiant. Kill all who resist you. Destroy their belongings, raze their houses and crops. I have to see to the defenses of my stronghold before I reveal our plans.
Always remember my Devoted Champions. A good offense is a strong defense. Then I shall come soon and claim Stormwind.” Her face vanished and the blue flame died out.
Just as the flames died there was a loud knock on the door and a voice called “Her Grace Lady Proudmoore wishes an audience with Bors the Hunter.”
Bors stood up “It begins”.
Senna quickly shifted into her shaman form and nodded in agreement. “Soon the Devoted will claim this city, as was promised, then we will be rewarded.”
Bors opened the door for Senna and followed her out, closing it securely behind them. All was falling into place.
Chapter 6. Lies and Half lies are always a basis for Truth.
The Night Elven delegation has angrily left the war council. Feeling betrayed they now leave to join Tyrande, herself keeping a self imposed exile. Genn Greymane, still grateful above all else for the aid of the Night elves after the sacking of Gilneas has been given leave by Anduin to re affirm the trust
and need for co operation. The Alliance can ill afford factionalism. Gia, maintaining his disguise accompanies him. Meanwhile Bors has his audience with Jaina Proudmoore, and a long whispered rumour is soon put to rest.
“This human led Alliance cares nothing for our plight” said Captain Windwhisper as she led her two companions to their waiting vessel. “The High priestess will be disappointed, but nor shall she be surprised.” Stepping onto the gangplank she shouted to the crew of her vessel
“Prepare to cast off. We sail to Feralas.”
“Hold!! HOLD!!” yelled Greymane as he shape shifted out of his Worgen form. “Stay Captain. We are not going to resolve this by splitting our Alliance. It will play into the Horde’s hands.”
“Greymane. You above all should know what it feels to feel the bitter mercy of the Alliance. They were slow to aid you when… She… Invaded your kingdom. Now you ask us to simper at the feet of this Boy King while he dares to urge us to wait? You ask too much Worgen”
Genn strode upon the deck of the ship followed by Gia. “Yes. This is true. They were slow. But they did not desert us wholly. SI7 and the Seventh Legion sent us aid. Without their aid, Gilneas would have been lost long before you helped us. And it was Stormwind who has provided us both with Sanctuary.
We did not rely solely on your help. But If we had the full support… perhaps… Liam”. His voice fell as did his head.
Whisperwind turned slowly. “So our aid was worthless? Careful with your words Greymane, lest they come back to… Bite… You.”
Greyman softened his stance and voice. “I hear your plight Whisperwind. More than most. Do not desert us. For all our sakes. We are stronger together. Tyrande knows this, even though rage and grief tear at her resolve.” Walking slowly he came within a step of her.
“Please. Do not abandon us.”
“If you leave” said Gia, his voice heard for the first time “You will surely be lost. The Horde already plan for war, Feralas will be no haven for you. Our garrison in the Barrens is already at breaking point. If leave you choose, you cannot go alone.”
Whisperwind looked down at him “Gnome. Why do you care for our plight. You have your home in Ironforge with the dwarves. Your ancient home of Gnomeregan should be yours again soon.” She bent down on one knee and hissed “We. Have NO home. It was burned to cinders by… Her.”
Do you remember gnome? Men. Women. Children. Hundreds of lives turned to ash. And now you tell us we have a home. Here?" She swept her arm towards the harbor
behind her. “Would you suggest we build tree houses in the Royal park?”
Gia stiffened and met her gaze “No I would not. I would have you fight for what is yours. For vengeance on what you lost. it depends, on how devoted you are.”
“Very. I am very devoted to my cause.” replied Whisperwind “And to my mistress, if she would reward me for devotion with the knowledge my people will once again know peace and a home of their own.”
Gia again met her gaze “But you cannot do this alone. if you choose to leave, at least accept help. I can think of no more a suitable people than the Worgen, led by King Greymane.”
Windwhisper rose to her full height and knelt in front of Greymane “Sire. our friend speaks wisely and honestly from his heart. We must go to Feralas and report, but we cannot go alone. if the Horde does indeed assault us, we will surely die alone. On behalf of our people, I beg you and your people’s aid”
Greymane said nothing for what seemed an eternity. “I… Agree. I will inform Anduin of what was discussed here and beg his leave to accompany you. I will also task him with reinforcing Stormwind. our legions will soon return and maintain order. In that time my people will aid you in defending Ferelas.”
Gia smiled inwardly. “Old Cur. So easy to manipulate with emotional heart strings. Pull on one thread, and the web unravels.”
“My Lords” he said, “I should return to the Keep with this news while My lord Greymane marshals his people. I shall also tell the council of our plans”
“Very well Gia. And thank you for your wisdom in this matter” said Genn as he retired to the cabin.
“Yes thank you little one” said Whisperwind “May our paths cross again soon.”
“Indeed they will” thought Gia as he made his way to Stormwind. He made his way not to the Keep but to the house they had rented. Once inside he bolted the door securely and after using his rogue skills to search for traps and intruders he assumed his ghostly form and called his Mistress.
“My Queen Souldefiler, I have done as you asked. Greymane will accompany the Night Elves with his people. Now only the Human armies and the Dwarven armies remain in Stormwind. We eagerly await your coming.”
The air darkened and the face of Souldefiler once again appeared. Smiling she then spoke. “Excellent Gia, you have done well. But stay a while longer and ensure that the Worgen do leave Stormwind. When they do, begin the Cleansing and sound out those who would be Devoted.”
“One may prove Devoted Mistress” said Gia “Already the seeds I have sown begin to bear fruit. She is trusted among her people and they will swear loyalty to the death for her. And to you”
“Good. carry on sowing your seeds but do not over reach yourself. Once Bors and Senna complete their tasks, you three will herald my coming. i expect others to be just as devoted as you. For now make sure Greymane leaves and make sure he cannot return to Stormwind with allies.”
Gia bowed “My mistress” and the vision disappeared. Assuming his mortal form he again unbolted the door and secured it fast before leaving making his way to the Keep.
Jaina’s Chamber.
“Where is he… I summoned him an hour ago.” muttered Jaina pacing her chamber. “I can only wait so long.”
“My lady” said a mage, interrupting her thoughts. “Huntsman Bors awaits your pleasure”
“Show him in and leave us. I have private matters to discuss”
“Yes my lady.” Bowing he led Bors in before closing the door behind him.
Jaina placed a locking spell on the door and came to the kneeling Bors.
“So. Where did you get this?” and dropped the trinket on the floor, landing with a soft thud. Bors said nothing. “Answer me.”
“You know where.” said Bors, still kneeling.
“I am in no mood for games. Get up” she said testily going to her cabinet and pouring them both a goblet of wine. Handing one to him she again asked her question. “Where. Did you get this? Or who gave it to you?”
“May I sit?” asked Bors, all niceties now a formality long gone “I do not know the significance of this bauble. I only see a small metal device in the shape of a demon’s skull. I was merely sent to give it you.”
“For what purpose” asked Jaina now sitting across from him. “I hope for your sake you are not threatening me. Remember but with a thought i could destroy you utterly. or call for my mages to do the same.”
“Then why did you cast a locking spell on your door if not for the purpose of complete secrecy? I fear the reason you locked that door is because you did not want us to be disturbed. Is that not so?” looking at her over his goblet as he feigned to take another mouthful. “Your wine has gone sour I may add.” pouring it onto the floor.
Jaina raised an eyebrow. “If you think I had poisoned it with something would I be drinking it as well? Now tell me. Who gave you it?”
Bors relaxed into his chair. “A Death Knight known to us both as Souldefiler. You may have heard of her.”
"Yes. replied Jaina. “I have. What of her. And where is she? Will she be coming here?”
“In time. Certainly in her own time. She asked me to give you that trinket. She said you would know it’s meaning”
Jaina’s brow twitched “Yes of course I do. It is a Burning Legion symbol. A calling card if you will. It is usually found on the signets given to their commanders in the field as a token of authority.
One who carries such a signet is renowned throughout the demon world as a being of great power. And cunning”
Bors smiled “I never knew the existence of such a thing.”
“Few would. It is a secret not openly discussed by the demons. Few of them in fact know of their existence.” said Jaina.
“Strange that you do.” smiled Bors.
“Stranger this death knight would” countered Jaina. “Enough of this. Why did you bring this to my attention?”
Bors shifted in his chair. “As you say. Enough of this. Very well. I was sent here by my Mistress Souldefiler to give you this trinket. She said it would reveal yourself to her. And to her messenger. Reveal what I wonder.
But I can tell by your posture you already know. It has long been darkly whispered you are not wholly what you seem to be Proudmoore. But before you make your choice, allow me to give you the opportunity to speak with my Mistress herself.”
Standing he pulled out of his belt a strange stone. Chanting quietly a black hole ringed with blue fire appeared before them. Then came the face of Souldefiler in the gloom and her voice followed.
“Good Bors. Prepare to return to me. I shall discuss matters with our Lady Proudmoore now.” A death gate burst open and Bors walked through
“Lady Proudmoore. A pleasure to see you again.” said Souldefiler, stepping through the death gate. “May I?” and motioned to the seat Bors had left.
“Of course” whispered Jaina. Souldefiler smiled and sat down as the Death Gate closed. “Thank you most kind. Now then. To matters. You of course know that trinket my loyal servant gave to you?”
“Of course i know what it is you undead wretch” as Jaina’s face began to rapidly switch from her usual normal fair face to something more sinister. “What of it?”
“I see the tales about it’s power and subsequent curse are true. While it gives it’s wielder power, it also lays bare their true nature. How long shall we wait until you finally shed off this form you possess?”
“Fine. As you wish.” Jaina grunted and the visage of Jaina Proudmoore was gone. Now only the face of a dreadlord sat on the shoulders of a human. “How did you know?”
“I found out when I finally learned my true goal in this… life if you accept the irony. When I found out my past, many things were opened to my before closed eyes. You most of all. Shalakazor.”
The demon laughed. “So now you know my name. Well done. What will you do now? Expose me to the world? Maybe allow those pathetic Illidari, so proud of their skills to send me to the Nether.”
“I have no need to expose you. Not yet at least. I offer you a choice Shalakazor. We both know I could destroy you right here and now. Even with your lock on the door, it will fade. And when it is broken and your mages can enter. I will be long gone leaving nothing but your broken body. Your shell will be destroyed forever. While no one will give the name Proudmoore such reverence anymore, what good would that do you?
Even if the real Jaina Proudmoore languishes in that arcane prison cell you set for her, it will all be worthless as you will be destroyed and she goes free. But I must congratulate you, I see it was not for nothing you lead the Kirin Tor and have access to the spells of Dalaran’s prisons”
“They serve my purpose well yes” replied the demon. “Not only do they hold prisoner those who disappoint me, they also serve as Proudmoore’s prison. Right under their very noses!” laughing as he spoke. “But tell me. What do you want death knight?”
“I propose a bargain. You serve me as a mighty champion in my new order. All you need do is prove your devotion to me, and your secret shall be safe forever. Once I rule Azeroth, Dalaran will be yours to command. You can then finally shed off this husk you inhabit, and show the world your glory.”
The demon paused. “Why should I serve you! You should be serving me. Never forget, the Burning legion gave Ner’Zhul the power to create you. I can easily remove that power and return you to that cold ground as a rotting corpse. Your vaunted beauty shall soon fade then as the worms feast on you”
Souldfiler swept her hair across her shoulders laughing “You set your pedestal up there with Sargeras now do you? No you will not do that demon. I hold all the cards. All I need do is leave this room, and go to your King and tell him all that has happened here. The lock you placed on that door still has many days before it’s power wanes.
You have spent all your power maintaining your visage until this signet finally over reached your power. You have no power left to defy me demon. By the time I return with Anduin and the guard, you will be begging me to release you from this shell and kill you. When you die, your cells fail, and Jaina will return to her rightful place.
I have nothing to lose, and everything to gain. You have everything to lose, and only one thing to gain. But one thing may become many things, if you accept my offer and serve me as Devoted. Now choose” said Souldefiler reaching for a hand mirror on the side table. “Am I still not beautiful after all these years?”
Shalakazor snorted. “I see your vanity still haunts you. Yes you are beautiful, but inside you are as ugly as sin itself.”
Crossing her knee Souldefiler smiled. “Aptly put. Now for the last time, make your choice.”
The demon rose. “I choose… Devotion.” And knelt at Souldefiler’s feet.
“Excellent. Your first reward awaits through here.” A Death Gate opened and Souldefiler motioned Shalakazor through.
“Everything is going to plan” she said to the air, smiling and followed Shalakazor through the Death Gate.
Chapter 7 Small Talk over Big plans.
Royal Chambers.
Anduin stood over his charts of the seas between Kalimdor and the Maelstrom, searching his memory for any trace of knowledge of this new island. “Why have I no memory of this place. I have crossed this part of the seas many times. Why is there no news” he said to himself.
“Your Majesty. One of your champions awaits your pleasure.” said a valet standing at the door.
“Thank you I shall be there shortly” replied Anduin as he folded his maps and arranged them in his desk. “Where are you Wrathion” he asked himself. Composing himself he left the room to meet his guest.
“Good Morning Your Majesty” said Senna bowing. “And good morning to you Senna” replied Anduin. “Please, join me for my morning meal.” ushering her to a seat. Once seated he pushed her chair forward and took his own seat across from her.
“How are you this morning?” he asked as he unfurled his napkin. “I am well Your Majesty” replied Senna. “Come now, enough of that. Just Anduin will do.” as a servant came in and filled his goblet. “Do you drink wine at breakfast?” he asked
“No… Your ma… Anduin. No I do not. Usually I just have some water.” “Water for Senna if you would be so kind, and after you bring us our meal leave us.” The servant bowed and carried out his orders. “I understand your companions are going separate ways. Is there something wrong? I had hoped you would have stayed here”
“No Anduin nothing is wrong. I fear my companions are chaffing at the bit to see some action, I myself am used to inaction, healing the sick. I was hoping for some peaceful times after our last adventures, but it seems fate once again gives us no rest.”
“Indeed” replied Anduin. "It does not. You did well on the last campaign I am told. Exceedingly well in fact. He put down his fork and wiped his mouth with his napkin. “I will not lie to you Senna, i have often admired you from afar.” Senna raised her eyebrows. “Oh?”
Anduin coughed and spluttered “Oh please forgive me I maybe made myself unclear. I meant to say i have admired your skills. My own training as a priest had to be put on hold after the mantle of King was pushed onto my shoulders so soon. I still have much to learn.”
Senna laughed softly. “But not in other matters it seems”
“I’m sorry, forgive me but i do not understand Senna. In what matters?” Smiling she raised her glass of water. “Your health Anduin” Anduin raised his goblet with a slight red face. “Do accept my apologies. I spoke out of turn.”
At this Senna laughed and replied “All is forgiven Anduin, no offence was taken.” Wiping her mouth with her napkin she put it down and took another sip of water, looking over the rim of her glass she she did so. “An excellent meal, you should be proud of your cook”
"Anduin put down his fork and nodded in agreement, his mouth still full. “Yes. yes she is, an excellent cook” when he had finished. “Now let us take a stroll in the morning air.” Coming round to her he took her hand and helped her up before walking by her side to the porch.
“A beautiful morning” he said as they walked around the balcony. “Yes it is” replied Senna as she looked over at the green grass below. “Do I see people down there?” she asked, shading the sun with her hand.
“Yes, it is the refugees from Teldrassil. I gave them the woods below us to hopefully remind them of what they lost and to give them hope we will return it to them one day. But the Night elves distrust our motives. i fear they will desert us” he sat down on a stone bench.
"Senna sat next to him and took his hand in hers. “Do not worry my King. They remain devoted to our Alliance. To you. They will not leave. Nor will I”
Anduin bowed his head. “Now you are afraid to look into my eyes” Senna whispered. “Don’t be” and she raised his chin with a finger. Anduin’s gaze matched hers. “Is this the right time and place? asked Anduin.”
Senna smiled softly “For what? What does your heart tell you what is right and what is wrong?”
Anduin rose from the bench. “I do not think the time is right for this. I have so many responsibilities that i cannot spare the time.” Senna dropped her smile and Anduin caught her gaze. “Oh my dear Senna do not misunderstand me. That is not what I meant.”
“I know” she whispered and rose to stand. “I know. What can I do to help? Allow me to help you.”
Anduin smiled “I had hoped you would offer your help. My advisors can help me in matters military and being a King for my people, but they cannot help me in matters of my heart. This is why I called you back I need you for something more…”
"Yes? replied Senna now drawing closer. “Something… I do not know” he whispered as she brought her face to his.
“Do you mean this?” she whispered and brought her lips to his.
“Ahem… Majesty” coughed a courtier. “News.”
Anduin quickly drew away and composed himself as Senna sat back down on her bench. “I am sorry.” he said. “It seems again fate has once again given me an unlucky roll.” Senna looked up at him and smiled. “I shall await your return here”
Anduin took her hand and kissed it. “Soon I promise” and left her on the balcony.
Striding into the conference room he saw Turalyon, Alleria and Moira waiting. He looked quickly at Alleria and a knowing smile died on her lips. He said nothing more until he spent time poring over the reports.
“What is this? Genn has left for Feralas with the Night Elves? Jaina is nowhere to be found? Am I losing advisors now daily?” sighing he muttered “Where are you Wrathion…?”
“My lord” said Turalyon softly “we have more news concerning Jaina.” “What is it?” asked Anduin looking up from his papers. “All it says here is that she has left the city without warning”
“Partially true” said Alleria. But none of my mages detected her leaving. Its as if she vanished into thin air. And there is more. There is an unbreakable lock on her door. We cannot get in, and if she is in there, she is not replying to our calls to open it."
“But why?” asked Anduin. Why would she do such a thing? Is she in the city at all?"
“My mages can find no trace of her. I surmise she has left the city on an errand of her own and feared taking anyone with her or allowing people to know where she was going. I suggest she has gone to visit Thrall and Baine on her own misguided crusade for peace”
“Jaina why…” whispered Anduin. “My hope grows thinner each day. No one will stay and help me.” his gaze fell to the balcony and on Senna sitting on her bench watching the skies. “Anduin… ANDUIN!” yelled Moira.
"“I’m sorry forgive me, i was elsewhere.” said Anduin. " Turalyon, Alleria and Moira exchanged glances then finally all looked at Senna.
“Do you want us to leave you alone Your majesty” said Alleria softly. “We can return when we have more reliable news.”
“No. No I need to know as much as you can tell me. Where did Genn go?”
“Your majesty allow me” said Gia as he swept into the room breathlessly and bowed low. “Genn Greymane seeks your permission to accompany the Night elves in the defense of Feralas. They fear an assault by the Horde is imminent. He left word with Jaina Proudmoore of his plans and begged her to use her influence with Baine to try and stop the assault. He asked me to give you this message as he plans to leave immediately when all preparations are complete.”
Anduin looked to his 3 remaining advisors. “So it would seem that Jaina has left after all. In great secrecy as well. not wanting anyone to know of her plans.” He left the room and strode to his throne where he sat down heavily. The others followed.
“Anduin I am certain she did it for the best of reasons.” said Turalyon.
“Or perhaps she feared betrayal” said Gia.
“I hope for your sake champion that you are not suggesting any of us here would betray the Allience to the Horde!” said Alleria, her voice rising.
“No. I am not. But such secrecy was not needed. I merely ask why she felt the need. Everyone knows of her friendship with Baine and especially Thrall.”
“Jainia Proudmoore is above reproach. How dare you question her loyalty!” said Moira. “I am not” replied Gia. “But others have no such claim. My King.” Gia bowed and left the throne room. Anduin’s eyes narrowed as he left.
“Anduin… all of us. Are loyal to you. To the Alliance. Jaina did what she thought was best. She will return. As will Genn.” said Alleria. All 3 bowed and left the throne room.
Anduin sighed loudly and put his head in his hands. “Where are you Wrathion!” he shouted and rose from his throne.
Senna smiled softly to herself as she saw Anduin get up from his throne and make his way to the balcony. At first he did not seem to notice her until she stood up to meet him. Smiling he came to her and took her hands.
“I cannot apologize enough my dear Senna. Forgive me” Senna laughing softly replied “You’re forgiven. What has happened?” as she sat down again. Anduin sat next to her. “I do not know for sure. Genn has left, as has Jaina, and my other advisors seem to be caught off guard by events I fear dark times ahead.”
“I see” said Senna. “Is there some way i can help?” she said taking his hand in hers. "Looking into her eyes he said “No… I… No. I cannot ask such a thing.”
“Ask me.” she said softly. He drew closer to her. “Let us share another kiss.” Senna laughed and replied “Is that all?”
Gia kneeled in front of the sputtering blue flame as his Mistress spoke to him. "Well done Gia, you have successfully sown more seeds of division. Prepare for my coming, Shalakazor has done well preparing our stronghold against any attack. Soon I will be invincible. Hold… You have a visitor. The flame died and Gia quickly resumed his human form.
The door opened and Senna stepped in. “Senna… you fool. be more careful next time you could have exposed us all.” She ignored him and went to get a glass of water. She knelt down beside Gia and ignited the blue flames. Once again the cold voice of Souldefiler rang through the air.
“Gia. Leave us. I have matters to discuss with Senna” Gia looked at Senna and Senna at him. A death gate appeared and Gia walked through. Senna suddenly felt very afraid.
“Are you trying to test my patience girl?” said Souldefiler, in a soft voice yet full of evil power. “No my Queen” said Senna.
“Amusing you use that word. Queen. Do you want to be one?”
“I do not understand My Queen” replied Senna nervously. “Then allow me to show you what I mean. Scream as hard as you like Senna, no one can hear you.”
Senna’s body writhed in pain as she screamed in silence as Souldefiler tortured her for what seemed an eternity. “Never forget Senna. Even though i allow you to maintain that husk you call your former body. I still control every fiber of your being. Never forget that just as easily as I raised you, so can I utterly destroy you.”
Senna collapsed onto the floor, breathing heavily. “Forgive me my Queen, I forgot my place.”
“Yes you did. Never allow it to happen again. Now. Your mission is going well I trust?”
“Yes my Queen. Soon Anduin will be in the palm of my hand. Already he has fallen for me. It will not be long before he makes me his chief advisor.”
“Good. But Senna… Remember” Senna’s body was once again wrapped in an icy touch not all the fire elements in the Planes could heat up. “I can easily cool your ardor. Be careful your flames of passion do not lead to your icy tomb”
“But he is still to be mine?” she gasped. “Of course. What will be left of him. You are mine Senna. Do not fail.”
Her voice trailed off and the Death Gate opened again allowing Bors and Gia to step through. Senna looked up to them from the ground where she still lay on her hands and knees.
Gasping as she stood up, she now stood resolute as ever. “What are Her orders?” she asked her companions.
“Prepare. She comes in three days”