#violetbastion

She nearly yelped when she saw him, an imposing figure in the dark, before he stepped into the light of the street lanterns.  A sigh of relief escaped her lips as he spoke and she lifted her hands to relieve her head of the cowl. "Hello! Yes! My name is Catisa Wells, it's certainly a pleasure. I'm new to the Bastion, but I don't believe we've had the pleasure yet." She extended a hand in an offer to shake if he took it, her touch would be warm and her accent told of a gilnean farm girl.

"The name's Mason!" The man's handshake was firm, yet friendly, and quite enthusiastic. Pulling his calloused hand away - one of his many qualities that made him seem more a workman than one who would be part of an organization like the Violet Bastion - he continued, "Mason Kohler, rather. Haven't made your acquaintance yet, but then again, I haven't spent all too much time at the estate out of the workshop on the grounds trying to get things set up for my specifications." Clearing his throat, he motioned with a jerk of his head towards the east, and Deadwind Pass, "The plan's to track down that elemental and the poor fellow who brought it in, yeah? Any news in town about it?"

"A pleasure, Mister Kohler." She greeted him with a kind smile, "So far it appears to be a ghost town, though I brought something along that should help." With a smirk she reached into a satchel and pulled out a small orb. "A scrying orb. We should be able to track the familiar's movements, assuming that nothing else has interfered with the trail." Catisa gestured toward the mountains to the east, "From what I understand, the guards here lost it in Deadwind Pass, so I expect we should be able to pick up traces of it if we head toward the largest mana reservoir in that direction."

He nodded matter-of-factly, and motioned to the road leading east, which began to rise as it wound through the dark woods out of town and into the rocky pass far beyond, "Lead the way then, Miss Wells. I'm afraid I'm not much use at tracking magic, though I've gotta say, it's a skill I've been hoping to pick up a little more of one of these days. I tend to hunt down, let's say...more mundane threats!" The laugh which punctuated the end of his thought was booming and mirthful, especially in such a silent, dreary location as Duskwood, "Do lead on, and I'll keep at the ready!"

A giggle escaped her, she found his company soothing in their dark and unfamiliar surroundings. "Little tricks like this are things my mother was known for." The Pyromancer began as she started to walk with one hand out, the scrying orb glowing in her palm as she continued, "She was a fortune teller. This was actually hers before she passed, though it has far more uses than that of simple parlor tricks. If applied correctly, it can lock onto the magical signature of a being or even a person and lead you to them wherever they might be."

The man peered at the orb curiously as they walked, listening with a slight tilt of his head as she explained, that broad smile returning, "Yeah? Impressive little thing to be able to carry around! Might need to look into getting one for myself. That is, if I could channel a lick of magic that'd start it up. You might've guessed that that's not where my gifts really lie." He laughed again, following her on the path out of town, "You ever been out in these parts? Been quite a few years for me."

"I'm actually fairly new to the area, so unfortunately I haven't. This is a first for me." She looked around a bit nervously at that, noticing that as they walked the trees and sky grew more grey and dead looking. "Has it always been like this here?" She found herself wondering aloud, "What caused this?" Her steps slowed more and more, the further she got the more uncertain each step became. Though the orb seemed to continue to pulsate its eerie glow as steadily as ever, but the poor girl's hands were trembling and as much as she tried to hide it, it was probably painfully obvious to her companion.

"A mystery I'm afraid I don't know the answer to. Word is something big happened here a long time ago, rumors even say there was some Burning Legion involvement, and having seen just how bleak, I can say I wouldn't doubt it." He offered a reassuring smile, though he too was clearly put on edge by the greying of the world around them, everything from the sky above to the dirt beneath their feet, "What's hard to believe is that something like this is so close to home."

"The Legion..." Catisa echoed, recalling the all too recent war and sundering of their world by a giant blade and shuddered, "I've only read about some of the things the Legion are capable of, but that seems likely." She nodded, "So close to home and yet people still squabble over the price of a loaf of bread in the streets." Another sigh escaped her, raven black locks of hair fell over her features as her brow furrowed and their voices began to echo off of the valley walls around them. It was then that the orb in her palm began to glow a bright blue, illuminating a path before them of what appeared to be residual arcane. To someone not attuned to such a sight, it might look more like blue dust that glows in the dark.

Mason's brow, too, furrowed, recalling scenes of such squabbling himself, over the price of bread in Stormwind, and over the last scraps back home in Westfall, "Folks don't like to worry about the big things too much, I find. Reckon it gives them some peace, a little bit of control over what's going on. I know back home, even when the Legion was right there, skies choked with them..." He trailed off, dropping his thoughts as he narrowed his eyes at the glowing trail before them, "Looks like we've got something!"

The aspiring sorceress grinned, her tone excited and devoid of any trace of unease she had felt only moments before. "It does! and it looks like it's arcane in nature, so it's likely this is our familiar." She looked up at him and looked as though she might start sprinting down the path before she quirked a brow, "The signs should grow stronger as we get closer. These things can be tricky so we want to corner it before we spook it. And... I can understand that, to a degree, but I have no wish to live in the dark and hide." With a shake of her head she returned her gaze to the illuminated trail before them and continued their previous pace. "I was raised better than that."

"Sounds like we've got that in common then, Miss Wells. If I'd waited around for things to happen and didn't go out and find life for myself, well..." He shrugged, making to follow the trail, "Can't say I'd be the same person I am today. It's good that there are some of us out there who'll worry about the big things so others don't need to, yeah?" He flashed back his broad, excited grin as he moved further ahead, "Shall we?"

A wide grin flashed across her features as she watched him pull ahead of her and she moved to quicken her pace, the orb pulsing a dull blue in time with the arcane dust. "Yes, lets!" She giggled, "And it is, nice that is, to know there are others out there. It seems today has been an interesting day for conversations or perhaps I am just tired and thinking too deeply as of late."

"Met some other interesting folks? Not a bad thing, not at all, I say!" Mason continued following the trail illuminated by Catisa's scrying orb, though he moved carefully, and surprisingly quietly in his place-reinforced leathers, clearly having taken the mage's advice to heart about being sure to corner the elemental before engaging, "I'm awfully sure the best conversations are when you're on the road, or doing something interesting, rather than just sitting around."

"Someone else new to the Violet Bastion, actually. I think you'd like her, a Dark Iron dwarf by the name of Dahlyah, a huntress that knows only the hunt." She giggled. A moment later she brought her hand up and pointed into the distance, "See there? Where it starts to get brighter? We're getting close." As she spoke her voice lowered and her footsteps grew softer. Upon the horizon they could start to make out the roof of a tall structure, crooked and haunted by all manner of beings was the building that towered over the basin. The closer they got the more evident it became that their trail lead straight there.

"Wait a second... Name sounds awfully familiar." He pursed his lips in thought before his eyes widened in sudden recognition, a grin splitting his face, "I remember, I ran into her a while back! Let me pick one of the bounties she was looking for and have the job myself! It'll be good to see her again, I think!" He shook his head, "Not important right now, though. Looks like..." He trailed off as his gaze followed the haphazard tower to its summit, "Trouble, really. I never wanted to get this close, but we've got work to do."

She swallowed hard as she realized where they were headed, the trail led straight down to what appeared to be crypts below. "I didn't realize you two were already acquainted!" Came her response, though she was practically whispering at this point and her free hand had begun to reach for the fabric on his arm. An instinctual reach for someone to clutch onto and his much larger form certainly made her feel more at ease than she would have been, but nothing had prepared her for what they might see down there. "I-it looks like it's down there..." Catisa looked about, spotting no other entrances or trails to follow. "Assuming our familiar is the only thing down there, it may have made our jobs a bit easier."

"I'm sure hoping so..." Mason peered down the path ahead and down the dimly-lit stairwell leading to the crypts, "Last time I found myself wandering into some underground ruin, it wasn't the most pleasant experience, lemme tell you. On the bright side, I did make it outta that alright! So I'm sure we'll be fine!" His bravado, however, was not matched by his face, his grin having fallen away and been replaced by a look of cautious resolve. Following the still-shimmering trail left by the scrying stone, he pulled the sword from his back and held it before him, traces of lightning crackling along its blade offering some very slight light in the growing darkness.

A nervous laugh escaped the girl beside him, "At least there's that..." Her eyes then fell to the blade in his hand, having taken note that he had no abilities to call upon the arcane when he stated so she caught herself thinking aloud, "Enchantments?" The scrying stone would lead them down into the depths of the caverns full of sarcophagi. "I really hope that Remy Whiteley gentleman didn't end up making this his grave too."

He let out a chuckle, far from the booming laugh that had echoed off the cobblestones of Darkshire, and shook his head, "Enchantments? Something like that. Call it a gift. Not anything I'd be calling magic, but I can do a little more than just swing a sword if need be." He grimaced at the tombs lining the walls of the crypt, a sigh escaping his lips, "Gonna agree with you on that one. Whatever mistake he might've made in summoning something too big for him to control, poor man doesn't deserve to rot down here."

Catisa seemed put at ease a bit more in his presence, perhaps he was just humble about his own talents. "I'd love to know more about it when we're not, um," At this point her voice was a barely audible whisper as she practically clung to him, only poking her head out to see and her hand to illuminate the passages with the orb. "Crawling through dead people." She slammed her mouth shut, tears in her eyes as she felt a squeal rise in her throat from something cold and wet brushing across her leg briefly. It took all she could not to give away their presence, practically holding her breath as they continued forward, one step at a time.

Mason offered another reassuring smile, hoping it was visible even in the gloom of the crypt. He seemed to focus for a moment, the lightning dancing along his blade becoming brighter, more of a constant, softly crackling glow, and illuminating more than just a few steps ahead. The stones were damp, this far below the surface, but the light gave more in secure footing than they'd had a moment before, "Any way of telling how far away we are from the familiar we're after with that?" He motioned with a slight nod towards the scrying stone, "I feel like we - I hope, should say - don't have much further to go."

She nodded with a quiet noise from behind him, thankful for the additional light his blade provided. "It will start to-" As she was about to speak; the orb began to flash, slower at first, but as they proceeded the pace between pulses quickened. "Do that." She continued flatly. Up ahead of them was a divergence in the path, it split off into three other directions, but the brightest one of the three that veered off to the right appeared to be where their target lay. "Be careful," She whispered, "It's not much farther now... we want to catch it by surprise and..." With a brief pause she reached into her satchel and held out a small pale blue crystal. "Take this. Charge it like you do your blade and throw it at the familiar, it should stun it long enough for us to surround it."

Beginning to follow the light illuminating the right-hand tunnel, Mason took the crystal in hand with a nod of thanks, "Sounds like a solid plan to me. If we can keep it from coming back the way it came, we should be pretty well set." With a firm grip on the blue stone, a crackle of lightning shot down the man's arm, an inner glow springing from the crystal as it became charged with power. Stepping softly, blade at the ready as the pair approached the end of the hall, the gentle glow of magic beyond giving away the rogue familiar's location, Mason bent his arm back, and threw! The crystal arced through the door, a crackling trail in its wake, landing in the room beyond with a crash of thunder and a surge of electricity, "Now!"

Catisa followed his lead and darted into the room. It was a crypt with no exit other than the way they came, perfect for their trap. "Here!" She called out, "I'll block the exit!" At the far end of the room the familiar stood dazed, the flowing water that made up its form seized from the shock that crystal had delivered so suddenly. With a wave of her hands she began to cast a spell, flames ignited at her palms and weaved around her fingertips that moved intricately with practiced movements. Once Mason was clear of the threshold she would release the gathered energy in a burst of molten rock that filled the doorway and quickly sealed the exit.

"Good call!" Mason grinned broadly, leaping past the threshold of the dead-end crypt, brandishing his sword, now surging with lightning, against the elemental. Trapped and stunned as it was, it was left entirely defenseless, giving the man an opening. In a huge arc, he swung his weapon up over his head and brought it crashing down on one of the bracers that bound the familiar to the mortal world. Thinking himself clever, Mason did not foresee the magic feedback that erupted from the shattered bracer, and was thrown back onto the damp floor. Nevertheless, as he began to push himself back to his feet, the elemental - now aware of its surroundings once more - made for him, though it seemed to be sluggish in its movements, burdened by its new state, "May have miscalculated just a bit there..."

With one bracer shattered that left one more to go. Crimson robes whirled about as she spun on her heel and faced the beast, the room illuminated by the dull glow of the molten rock in the doorway. Flames licked at her palms before she extended her arms and unleashed a quick fireball to try and deter it from attacking Mason before he had the chance to recover, but the flames quickly sizzled out of existence in the familiar's watery form. "Uh oh," She uttered, her eyes wide as it grew enraged, cornered in what it had made its home. "Look out!"

Sword in hand, Mason had made it to his feet! The elemental's fists, swirling and frothing white like river rapids, pounded down on him, the blows parried with deft and surprisingly swift movements of such a large sword. The blade itself simply slid through the watery creature's form, just enough to deflect the blow as if diverting the flow of a river. Without a chance to regain the momentum, Mason found himself backed into the crypt's wall. Feeling the cold stone on his back, he braced himself against it, threw his sword to the side, clattering to the ground with a shrill echo, then lunged forward, passing through the wall of water that had backed him into the corner, and emerged from the other side soaked and sputtering. Whirling around, he raised his hands before him, and with a shout, a crackling burst of lightning shot forth, a bright flash in the dark with a sound like thunder, stunning the elemental anew, "The bracer, finish it off!"

A gasp had escaped the young mage as he pushed his way through the elemental, she had never considered that maneuver. Wouldn't you drown from doing that? And was equally surprised when he made it through and stunned the familiar. She quickly regained her composure when he shouted and nodded her understanding, flames licked at her palms once more and danced around her fingertips as she gathered more energy than she had for her prior blast and extended her left arm to let forth a plume of flame that engulfed the elemental and converged upon the remaining bracer. Her brow furrowed from the strain and focus, a bead of sweat dripped down her cheek as the room temperature suddenly made a drastic change and not only did the elemental begin to evaporate, the bracer itself started to melt. The creature threw its arms back and a watery scream filled the room just as the bracer shattered from the forces colliding. Catisa gasped for breath as the flow of water finally began to disrupt and fell to her knees, the flames from her arm ceased and left a trail of smoke in its wake.

Seeing all that remained of the elemental - slick traces of moisture on the stone floor, steam swirling about from its sudden dispersal, and the two mangled bracers that had bound it - Mason let out a booming, triumphant laugh, "It is done, and done well! Beautiful work!" He turned to Catisa, still wearing a huge grin, and stepping over to her extended a hand to help her up, though he himself was still bedraggled and breathing heavily.

She winced as he grabbed her hand and with her tiny frame she compared to his she was practically hoisted up. Though in somewhat of a daze, she offered him a weak smile. "Indeed." Came her agreement between ragged breaths and waved a hand at the doorway, the molten rock that had prevented escape melted away to leave only scorch marks where it had once been. "Thank you, Mason. I don't think I could have done this without your help." Though the admission was true, she still seemed preoccupied as she now finally took the time to familiarize herself with the room.

"Hey, don't mention it! It's what I'm here for, after all. That said, not sure how well I'd have managed either, if we're being entirely honest here. I'm better at dealing with things that are, let's say, solid, yeah?" He chuckled to himself as he picked up his fallen weapon and slung it across his back once more. Finally taking the chance to look around the gloomy chamber himself, he crossed his arms over his chest and grimaced at simply how sodden his leathers still were, "Lovely little hole it found for itself. Any reason you can think of? I'm no expert, but elementals don't seem the sort to like creepy tombs."

With the adrenaline passing she found her sense of humor once more and giggled at his comments about solid objects, though that quickly faded and a frown found its way to her lips. "At first I thought it was because of the ley lines beneath Karazhan, though I should be so foolish as to think they were for reasons related to a passage in a book I had just read. It seems there was an ulterior motive." As she finished speaking she gestured with her right hand toward the far end of the chamber where a corpse lay crumpled in the fetal position, bloated from taking on too much water and likely drowned, though the stench was well masked by the surrounding musk of the tomb.

Mason wrinkled his nose and, shaking his head, knelt down beside the poor, drowned conjurer, "Must be our summoner, fled from Duskwood and led his rebellious familiar on a chase. Shame we didn't get here quicker, but looks like he's been here for a little while anyway." He reached out a plated hand to close the bloated body's eyes, still gaping in the throes of drowning, "We'll have to send someone out this way to take him home, if he's got a family." Pushing himself back up from his knees, he raked a hand back through his soaked hair, pushing it from his face, "I'm about ready to get outta here, I think."

Catisa Wells nodded eagerly at his final remark, her voice shaky as she spoke. "That makes two of us." Came her agreement and took one last look at the corpse, the frown on her features deepened and she shook her head as she slipped back through the threshold and started down the path that had led them there. She folded her arms across her chest, tucking herself in as though she were attempting to console herself.

Catisa tapped her chin with a forefinger in thought, "I don't know much about them in particular, but they look fine to me too!" She shrugged and looked around before she stepped forward and waved a hand around in an intricate pattern, "It looks as though the wards weren't tampered with either, at least in this area."  With a wave she summoned Snowyn to her, "Come on! Let's stick together, just in case." She smiled at her companion for the journey and started to lead their way into the caverns.

Just as Snowyn was about to take out a magnifying glass and investigate the guardians further, she was instantly teleported over to Catisa. The mage stood there for a second, blinking a few times and trying to gain her bearing before following Catisa into the caverns. She held out her wand, the blue light emitting from the tip lighting their way. The mage scanned the area, her green eyes darting from one thing or another; she didn't want to miss any clues or creatures that would come out of nowhere and chase after them!

Soft footsteps padded carefully down the cavern, brown eyes alert as she examined each rune and ward they passed. Farther and farther in, the tunnel seemed endless until at last they reached a fork in their path. Both seemed safe enough, all that remained was to find out which way they should go in their search. "Which way do you think goes to the market?" Catisa inquired as she reached into her bag and began to dig around for something. There didn't seem to be any clear indicators of which way they should take, simply the same repetitive patterns along the cavern walls where the runes were inscribed.

Snowyn shook her head, "Your guess is as good as mine, Miss Wells - I've only been escorted through here once and the arcane guardians are the ones that walked me through," she pointed her fingers at each path, "Enee, meenee, minee..." her finger landed on the left path "mo!" she snickered, "Let's give this one a try shall we. Should break out those bread crumbs you have handy? I believe we're going to be needing them right about now."

With a giggle she nodded and pulled out a loaf of stale bread, "Great minds think alike!" Catisa paused a moment to reach up and mark the wall at the entrance of the path they had decided to take with a small scorch mark in the shape of a star. "For added assurance." She stated to her colleague before she ripped a corner off of the bread and began to sprinkle it behind them as they proceeded. There was very little space between them as they moved, her willingness to not allow any distance between them so they wouldn't get separated was very apparent.

Snowyn noted the closeness between them and smiled; best to stick close together! Snowyn continued holding out the wand in front of her. In the darkness of the cave, a small, but very benign article of clothing lay on the cold, hardened dirt beneath them. Much like a child with a stick, Snowyn poked at it before gently picking it up. She stared, pursing her lips: a lacy, purple bra! "I'm guessing this must be Kisles..." she looked it over, "no blood. Signs of any rippage...." she shoved the bra into her small purse, disappearing into the void, "I do hope she's okay. Her and Luka."

"Me too!" Catisa nodded in agreement as she inspected the garment as well, brow arched. "Though, what a piece of clothing to lose here... where are the rest of them?" She sighed with a huff, uncertain if they would even find the answers. As they continued shuffling along in the dim light of the cavern with torches that grew fewer and farther in-between, she conceded, "At least that tells us we're headed in the right direction."

"I just hope we're not too late..." Snowyn said sadly. She pointed her wand forward and took Catisa's lead, looking for any more signs of the pair. For what seemed like ages, Snowyn walked beside her companion, trying to find any other clues. So far, none to be found. The last article of clothing had been the bra and nothing else had turned up just yet. Snowyn sighed, concern growing on her features each minute that passed by with nothing to be found.

Every few feet she tore off a new piece of bread to sprinkle in their wake, her brow furrowed with worry, "Agreed." Catisa stated, but just as she thought to quicken the pace a chill ran down her spine. From somewhere ahead of them a low and haunting wail reverberated off of the cavern walls and it took all the poor girl had not to shriek as she turned to cling desperately to Snowyn. Her hands trembled and she looked even more pale than she did in the artificial light from her wand.

Being the scardey cat that she was, Snowyn clung to Catisa back! She held her close, perhaps almost too close that she could very well suffocate Catisa, if she didn't do anything to push the red-haired mage back. "What on Azeroth was that!?" she said in a low, panicked whisper to Catisa. She held out her wand, swinging it back and forth in a rushed motion, "You heard that right? Of course you did. Goodness..." she said turning pale herself.

Catisa nodded as they clung to each other, though color quickly returned to her cheeks as she realized how close they were and blushed heavily. "M-maybe-" She gulped in an attempt to compose herself. "Maybe that was the reason they're missing." Came her conjecture despite trembling hands, still white-knuckling any fabric of Snowyn's that she could have clung to. "D-do you think ghosts are real?" She asked suddenly in her paralyzed state.

Snowyn drew in a deep breath - it was time to woman up! She stopped clinging to Catisa and gently reassured her with soothing rubs to her upper arms. Gazing into the dark for a moment, she looked back at Catisa, "I do... which is why we're here. To put them to rest if they're the reason Luka and Kisles are missing...." she cleared her throat, standing up straight, "We got to be brave. Too late to turn back now..." she said, crouching low and moving quietly forward. She blew at the tip of her wand, dulling the light in it just enough for them to see in front of them. She looked back at Catisa and smiled warmly, "Come along now. Lets not surprise whatever ghouls lurk here... If things get bad, just start shooting and run, understood? Follow your marks and bread crumbs back."

She cleared her throat and nodded, "Right." Her features hardened as she took the possibility of a threat far more seriously, and continued spreading bread crumbs behind them and marking the walls at each turn they took. The silence was near deafening as they proceeded to creep along in the darkness of the caverns seldom traveled, her shoulders arched with the mental preparation to brace herself for the next surprise. Catisa dared not speak even in a whisper in case something was listening, laying in wait for them to be caught off guard.

Snowyn carefully stepped through the darkness, her wand raised up over her head. She stayed vigilant as the two of them creeped through the darkness. The same sound from earlier echoed through the tunnels, only this time it was a little louder. It was unnerving, to say the least, but Snowyn crept forward. Her steps became hushed as to not surprise whatever it was they were going to find in the tunnels ahead of them. In the darkness, a dull flame lit up the tunnels. Shadows danced across the walls. Snowyn paused, pointing as they neared their destination. "Get ready..." she said in a padded whisper.

Catisa nearly dropped the bread as a second wail echoed through the cave, though she was able to maintain her composure this time. With brows knit the mage flicked her free wrist and flames began to dance at her fingertips. "Whatever it is... I have your back." She tried to reassure herself as much as her compatriot. There was a dim light further down the tunnel as though there was another torch or lantern that flickered erratically. Strange elongated shadows of misshapen and malformed creatures flashed down the tunnel walls accompanied by rustling sounds of movement in the distance.

Snowyn nodded to Catisa, a look of determination disguising the nervousness she felt going forward towards the light. As they made their approach, rustling could be heard, but no voices; nothing to give away it or all of it was. Snowyn rounded the corner, her back pressed to the cavern wall as they approached what appeared to be another tunnel that had been lit up completely to the right side. Snowyn drew in a deep breath as she inched closer to the entrance to the side tunnel. She looked over at Catisa, whispering, "On the count of three..." Snowyn said, pointing her wand out in the direction of the tunnel, "One.... Two...."

The fledgling mage had been counting with her, right by her side with the flames in her palms at the ready. "...Three!" They would have said together and Catisa rushed forward into the lit up cavern before she could think about hesitating. A pair of gasps filled the air and the rustling noises quickly turned to scrambling with belongings and garments being thrown about. What she assumed to be the rest of the clothing was outstretched before them in a trail to what appeared to be makeshift bedding. "Wha-?" Her confusion was palpable as the pair they had been searching for sat mostly nude before them save for a single sleeping back that they cowered behind, clearly having thought they would be undisturbed.

"D-don't hurt us!" The human male she assumed was Luka yelped.

On three, Snowyn pointed out her wand with her companion in tow before letting out a gasp and covering her eyes. She saw what she saw and immediately turned away for a moment, allowing the couple some time to cover up. Looking back and seeing they were somewhat decent after covering themselves up, she placed her hands at her hips, "Miss Kisles. Mister Luka. You could've at least sent a letter or a notice or something before gallivanting into the tunnels!" she scolded, sheathing her wand into a makeshift loop in her belt, "The director will be most displeased! I'm sure if the both of you would've explained your relationship to her, you wouldn't have to hide out in the tunnels. You had us all worried..." her tone softening at the end. She let out a long, drawn out sigh. She took off her glasses and pinched the bridge of her nose, shaking her head, "Please - for all our sakes, let's get back to the estate and inform the Director of your return, if that's what you want to do. I do not know of your intentions, but either way she and the rest of our company has the right to know..."

"Oh thank the light!" Luka exclaimed and the pair breathed a sigh of relief while they reached for their respective clothing.

"Uh, anyone seen my bra?" Kisles asked to no one in particular.

Catisa just covered her face with both hands and turned around, successfully hiding the crimson in her features from everyone except for Snowyn who might have also heard the small 'meep' that escaped her. She had not been prepared for such an outcome to their search! The poor girl remained like that while Luka continued from his earlier exasperation. 

"We lost our way, but somewhere along the way wandering about these endless tunnels..." He paused and smiled at his companion, Kisles. "We found each other."

Snowyn giggled seeing Catisa's reaction and turned back to the couple. She looked to Kisles and walked over to her, fumbling through her purse and procuring the bra she had left in the tunnels. " Best keep this on you," she snickered. Addressing both, "Well now that you've found each other and we've found you, let's get out of here. This is nowhere to... well.... I know it's private and all, but the Director can find you both a room, if you like. That way neither of you have to lose yourself in the tunnels and you can continue your...." she cleared her throat, trying to find the right word, "Business with one another there instead. Likely wards can be placed to mute any sounds," trying to sound as professional as possible, but her own cheeks lit up a slight red as she tried to find the right wording.

Kisles snatched up the Bra, "Thanks!" and continued to dress herself while Luka smiled to Snowyn and elaborated.

"Now that you're here to guide us I'm sure that will be much easier! We've just been wandering about getting more and more lost." With a hearty chuckle he pulled his shirt over his head and the pair, though dirty and unwashed, were ready to go.

Catisa turned around once she heard them stop moving around so much and breathed a sigh of relief to see that they were dressed once more. "Yes, quite, let's get out of here. I've had about enough of these caverns." She stated as she tucked the bread loaf away at last, "We marked our tracks so it should be fairly easy to find our way back." Still blushing red, she tried to use her hair to block the view of her rosy cheeks.

Snowyn snickered again. She held up her wand, lighting it up with a brighter glow. She walked over to the other side of the tunnel and much like a school teacher, "Alright everyone, let us get to moving then. The tunnel is no place for... a great many things. Let us be back before it grows dark on the outside world. I'd rather not be caught dead in the middle of redridge with all manner of foul creatures about. Or if there are any in the tunnel - let us avoid them!" Looking to Catisa, "Miss Wells. Would you kindly lead the way?"

"Of course!" The fledgling mage was more than happy to lead the way and set the pace for leading them out of there. Kisles and Luka filed in close behind and almost clinging to each other including Snowyn and Catisa. She flicked her wrist and flames ignited once more, illuminating the path ahead as she lead onward.

"Sorry for causin' ya so much trouble." Kisles finally piped up, "We never meant anyone to fret."

Luka nodded his agreement in the dim light, "Yes, and thank you so much for your help." He added with a sigh.

Snowyn ushered them along, "Quite alright, we're just glad you both are safe. And the director and the rest of the company will be glad too," she smiled, watching as Catisa lead the way. Looking back to Luka and Kisles, "I do suggest talking to the Director and explaining yourselves... she's worried sick, I imagine. Two of her finest workers. Tsk tsk," scolding playfully.

Catisa snickered to herself up front and smirked at Snowyn, "Yes, quite!" Her still flushed features hidden by the blend of warm light emitting from her palm.

"Oi we will, but honestly I would love a bath first!" Kisles responded with a giggle.

"Yes, a bath would do both of you well..." she humphed playfully at the two. 

"I'll join  you..." Luka purred to Kisles, sneaking a kiss to her forehead.

"Oh you two - wait til we're back at the estate, if you will," she snickered behind them, keeping her wanding raised up.

    If he could he would have scoffed. He was Aveem the Magnificent! Of course he was allowed to go anywhere she was. As he reached for the handle, however, he noticed something was off. A bright light shimmered and suddenly shot him back down the hall and he blinked. The faint trace of a ward visible on the doorway before it faded once more, only activated when someone attempts to enter. What?! First his Mistress dismisses him for his assistance and now this?! Wards in his own domain? Surely this will not do!

    How dare she? Miss Wells had asked about wards to fend off familiars and other magical creatures right in front of him the other day! She was learning quickly from his Mistress Starweaver, but this was just offensive! It was right under his metaphorical nose. He would stand for this no longer, trip or not Miss Wells would answer to him! 

With a bright blue light his body began to glow and suddenly he blinked out of existence only to appear by some overgrown bushes in a field with what looked like a farm house under construction at the center. There she was! Aveem had spotted her at last, though in that instant her gaze had snapped in that direction and fire lit her palms, she clearly was not expecting company. Before he could give it a second thought he was already back in the Estate halls and skittering back to work as fast as he possibly could, if he had a physical heart it would have been in his throat. He really hoped she hadn’t seen him.

“Just a minute!” She called, tone sour as she had just been stirred from what could have been real rest for the first time in over a day. It took her a moment to throw her robes on and open the door, but there was no one there. A grumble escaped her and she was about to slam the door when she noticed a note stuck to her door.

   There was a package waiting for her. What could it be? Of all the things she needed right now a mysterious package was not one of them. Begrudgingly she padded her way down the hall, giving no care about her disheveled appearance at this early of an hour. Once she arrived at the front of the Estate her eyes grew wide at the enormous crate that had somehow fit through the far smaller doors. Aveem stood, if you can call it that, a few feet away from her with a packing slip listing the items contained within and held it up to her with one hand while pointing angrily at the huge crate.

   “Alright, alright! I’ll take care of it!” She huffed and snatched the parchment from the ethereal helper, looking it over.

Items Contained Within:

Twelve Electrical Testers

One Hydraulic Lift

One Do it Yourself Golem Kit

Addressed to the order of: Catisa Wells

Catisa Wells sighed and nodded, "Thank you." She did as she was told and moved to sit, reaching up to undo the sling and carefully hold her arm out. "I've taken some baths and let it soak. About all the relief I have had is some anti-itch cream that Miss Silverfield gave me."

Aishia takes Catisa's arm gingerly, pushing the sleeve up to examine the burn. Her own hands were warm as she channeled the Light, fingertips glowing ever so slightly. "I assure you that I have seen worse." Her hand drifted just above the wound, the glow grew brighter as the magic increased. Flesh was stitching together, but it was slow and likely uncomfortable.  

As Aishia pushed her sleeve back she would see what was obviously third degree burns. Catisa would wince at first, but as the soothing light reached its way into her flesh, she found she simply watched the woman in awe. "I've never... been healed like this. Are there side effects?" She asked, ever the scientist.

Aishia's fingers continued to hover over the wound, her brow knitting in concentration. Layer by layer the wound was closing, but it felt as if it were a snail's pace. "It will be sore, and you might have a scar with how badly you were burned. But no lingering effects."

Catisa Wells smiled weakly, "Thank you, that's... amazing really. So you're saying I should be able to be back to a hundred percent for our excursion at week's end?"

Aishia wrinkled her nose a little, her expression unsure. She didn't want to crush the poor girl's hopes, but she also didn't want to risk sending her out wounded... "If the Light is gracious, yes." She released Catisa's arm. The skin was still red but no longer charred and open. It would still hurt, for sure, but she could move it. It was reduced to a first degree burn in most places.  

Catisa Wells winced occasionally as the light continued to weave her flesh back together, her free hand tight around the edge of the table. The only thing keeping her from yelling out was the booze still in her system and the nice view. Though she would hardly comment on it. Instead she simply bit her bottom lip and watched her work, "I appreciate your honesty." She admitted and once her arm was released she raised it and began to flex each digit, only wincing a little occasionally. For the most part, her discomfort had disappeared, the pain all but gone. "Wow!" She exclaimed, "That really is amazing! It feels like you gave me a whole new arm!" She giggled, "Kind of tingles too."

Aishia smiled as she got to her...hooves again, dusting her hands off with a job well done! While it didn't look like much, intense healing of deep tissues really did take it out of her. "You are quite refreshing, Miss Wells. Your smile is...like sunshine?"

Catisa Wells blushed and hid her smile behind her palm, embarrassed now that she felt seen. "Thank you, Miss Aishia. You're too kind, I'm flattered someone who has control over the living light would compare anything about me to sunshine." She snickered and removed the sling from her shoulder, still testing her arm out and rotating each joint to test her mobility. She found her limits, but they were much more satisfying than her prior limitations, and rose to her feet as well. "I feel like my thanks isn't quite enough gratitude, could I perhaps offer you lunch or dinner some time? I'd offer a drink, but I feel that would be foolish to assume a woman of your practice partakes in such things."

Aishia pulled her bag over her shoulder, pleased that the bandages weren't needed as she feared. "Your gratitude illuminates my heart, Miss Wells. But I would never turn down a meal!" Truly, Aishia was happy to just be of service. "The Light flows through me to bless those around me. I am but a tool."

Catisa Wells grinned up at the woman, "Surely you're more than that! Just like any other you have a uniqueness about you and a personality, your humanity makes you far more than simply a tool. You're an asset, to be sure." She giggled and canted her head to the side, satisfied with her arm's state she allowed it to fall back by her side once more, freely. "And it would be my treat! How about later this week?"

Aishia simply beamed at a job well done. "After the mission, yes? We will see how things fall for everyone. Hopefully I won't be too busy to see you."

Catisa Wells beamed in return, "That sounds like a plan! And hopefully I won't be one of the ones that you need to visit again." She snickered and held out her right hand to the woman, "It's a pleasure to meet you, despite the circumstances."

Aishia took Catisa's hand and gave it a soft squeeze. It was clear the draenei mostly worked indoors, her skin was soft. "The pleasure has been mine, Miss Wells. Please stay safe. May the Light bless your path."

Beneath the gloved hands her fingers were heavily calloused and stained as though she worked with heavy tools a lot. "Yours as well, Miss Aishia!" The fledgling mage grinned, "And thanks again! Having my arm back will make my life so much easier."

Catisa Wells giggled, "What a pretty name! Yes, I've only just recently joined, though it has certainly been a colorful experience!" She smirked and settled back into her chair, clearly uncomfortable with her arm stuck in the same position all the time. "What is it you specialize in, Miss Silverfield?"

Snowyn Silverfield beamed, " Thank you and I specialize in research and proposals! Not that any of them get published back in Stormwind anyways..." she sighed, coming back enthusiastically, "But it's why I keep trying!" she noted Catisa's injury as a worried expression grew on her face, " Are you alright, Miss Wells? How did that happen?" she said pointing to the sling.

Catisa Wells smirked and took another sip of her wine, "I certainly understand that. I bet it is tough to get those published with the critics that are out there these days." She shook her head slightly, "I'm fine! Thank you for asking, it's just that having this thing on all the time with my arm healing gets a bit itchy..." With a quiet laugh she continued, "It was a mishap during a little mission to track down a rogue familiar and its conjurer. It didn't end so well for either of them, unfortunately."

Snowyn Silverfield shook her head, " You don't know how many times I've gone through the Mage's guild in Stormwind to try and get something - anything published, but it's hard to try and get darker sources of magic and research published. It's all about the arcane and Light. But what of the other forms of magic? That's the hard part - trying to get them to see other side of things. Chaos!" she raised up both hands and brought them back down in a slump, " I'm quite sorry to hear. It's not easy to take a life - people make it so easy these days!" she huffed, " But I am glad you're alright, Miss Wells. Is there anything I can do to help? Grab you a nurse to change dressings? Anti-itch cream - I may have a salve!" she immediately started digging through her little, black purse which she was able to fit her whole arm in!

"Darker magics?" She quirked a brow at that and shook her head, "I certainly appreciate the offer, but perhaps..." She shifted in her seat and her features grew red, "Perhaps just the anti-itch salve, would be nice." Her smile was a bit weak, "I am sorry the Mage's guild can be so single-minded. I'd love to hear about your research, though! I just love learning new things. Until I can become more versed in something other than conjuring flames, the guild won't even speak to me." With that she sighed and brought the glass of wine to her lips once more, remembering why she had sought the Violet Bastion out in the first place.

Snowyn Silverfield whipped out the salve and pointed the small mason jar at Catisa, "Don't give up hope, Miss Wells! And don't let their pompous arrogance get to you. Whatever it is you decide to research and master, go straight for it and don't relent. Those misogynist old bags can kiss out pretty arses once we finally publish our findings and show them we're not just using magic to make ourselves pretty!" she stood up from the bench, pounding the jar into her chest. She winced, "Ow..." she then hopped off the bench and walked the salve over to her, "Apply this twice a day or whenever it gets the itchy-ist," she said, still wincing; she wasn't expecting to perform a speech.

Catisa Wells giggled and set her wine down to happily accept the jar, "Thank you, Miss Silverfield. For this and for the encouraging words." She beamed up to her, "Please don't strain yourself on my account. I still have a lot to learn, though! The Director told me she was going to get back to me about a tutor to assist me, though I'm afraid she has likely been too busy to get back to me yet. Perhaps you would like to join me and we can talk about your research?"

Snowyn Silverfield clapped her hands enthusiastically, "Of course! Well..." she straightened up. She drew in a deep breath before continuing, "The research I've been conducting is more into the darker side of things. You know, what our Warlock friends have been getting into  these days. Much of that research has been published, but much of it goes unpublished due to unpopularity with the masses and that none of the scholars in Stormwind like talking about that kind of stuff. Much it teeters on the brink of good magic.   Lawfully, good magic such as the magic mages, like myself, use. But there's always that temptation from the nether that seems to lure us in like flies to lanterns," she said pacing back and forth, " That is what I study. The temptation. What draws people  in in the first place. Granted, I myself tried it, but was unsuccessful. Just didn't have the full heart to get into it, but I'm always asking.... how are others so easily influenced?" she paused, "I apologize, I rant quite a lot about this subject. Though I'm no master in it, unfortunately."

Catisa Wells had been watching attentively and nodding along the entire time, her interest was nearly palpable. "I see, very valuable research indeed. How are we to defend against such things if we do not understand it, after all?" She giggled at her apology and gave  a dismissive wave with her free hand, "Don't fret, please, I enjoyed hearing about your thesis. It interests me, to be sure. Warlocks are far from the only ones utilizing such energies, however. What other methods for this have you begun to look into, if  any?"

Snowyn Silverfield pursed her lips before beaming, "Precisely! It's better to know about all these dark, scary magics that people don't like and use them either as a weapon or a way to get back at our enemies!" she said snickering, "And other methods - as in using? I try not to indulge, but I fear I have no heart to actually dive into it myself, much less try other methods or try to bend other magics. Though I have been looking into others who are able to use fel - the other day I met a Fel-infused Warrior. It was absurd, I'm sure that's what you're thinking and I was thinking too, but it happens! And they're able to use fel to their advantage - granted, it does hurt them quite a bit or at least that's the assumption, but I'm still looking into it. There's a lot of questions I have for that person, if they're around and available again. That or they went into hiding since it's been quite a while since I've seen this person.” She shrugged.

Catisa Wells snickered at her excited response, "Yes, it certainly would be nice to feel in control given everything that is going on." She shook her head, "Though not quite using, I simply mean others... Warlocks utilize fel and shadow, isn't it? They utilize their magics to call upon flames just like I do, can these other methods not be used to fuel our own such as ice and arcane?" It appeared it was now her turn to rant as she seemed to get lost in her own train of thought and rambled on, "Like that fel-infused warrior, they fueled their strength with it. I've often theorized you can pull upon other sources and shape it to whatever form we wish, if we just knew how. Drawbacks aside, that is. And what of these other cultures that draw upon the same sources, but the outcome looks far different than the way we are used to utilizing them? Not to mention Necrotic and Blood magics. I've heard tale of an elder mage among the Sin'dorei that once used blood magic as fuel for his arcane fire and caused it to be immensely powerful, but went blind from its use, corrupting his own blood and causing clots in his eyes." She finally snapped out of it and gave the woman an embarrassed smile, "Apologies, I do a lot of reading. To summarize, I mean mostly the draw of using each of these things and as you said, the temptation."

Snowyn Silverfield bounced on her heels as she listened to Catisa speak; another to rant with! She cleared her throat, "No need to apologize and you're absolutely right! The temptation to try out these other forms of magic and the ability to practice bending them are the sole reasons people want to try out these magics - that is why there is such a resurgence after the events of the Legion's last invasion here. I've seen such growth in the cities on different people using different magics and it's always so fascinating to see how all these individuals are doing it. Whether through some form of trauma or training - all these sub-forms of magic are being openly practiced and used. Which is such a delightful thing to see, but I can see why the general public is still apprehensive about it," she shook her head, crossing her arms, "We would be so far ahead in our progress in these studies if the Mage's guild or even the Violet Eye would listen to all these different appeals. But!" she said holding up a finger, "I can see why they refuse to publish most of it - we may end up getting another bad egg like Medivh. Rest his soul," she sighed.

Catisa Wells tapped her chin with thumb and forefinger in thought as her new friend spoke, "It is truly unfortunate. If only there were some way to ensure the safety of such knowledge..." She seemed to trail off and be caught off guard by something for a moment before shaking her head, "Sometimes I wonder if my views are why I have trouble with conjuring more than fire."

Snowyn Silverfield hummed in thought, "Not necessarily - though concentrating too hard, may lead burn out, if you're not careful," she snickered, hands at her hips, "I believe quiet meditation and just letting it come to you naturally would help. I can conjure frost spells, but arcane? That's a whole other story that has resulted in fun, beautiful explosions. I wish I could help you with that, but I'd rather not risk seeing stuff blow up. But I can make muffins and conjure portals to retrieve my muffins back in Stormwind. That's always helpful," she said so sure of herself. “Like you mentioned before, finding a good tutor would help so much!” She nodded.

Catisa Wells giggled, covering her smile shyly behind her free palm before reaching out for her wine once more to take a sip, "Thank you for that. I will have to give meditation a try, it's not something I am really familiar with, though what I would give to conjure something that isn't just purely destructive." She mused aloud with a wanting sigh.

“Oh? What did you have in mind? I could teach you how to conjure snacks and arcane portals, that's about the extent I have in the branches of mage arts. Didn't bother learning the other stuff... and that's why I flunked at the university in Dalaran.” She snickered.

Catisa Wells snickered, "I can conjure the standard mana buns, but they always taste so stale and bitter. That is, if they don't destroy your teeth or your taste buds." She gave a wave of her hand and effectively wine glass, the red liquid sloshing about within. "Portals... I've just been too afraid to let anyone try to go through mine, I don't think they're stable and always appear to just end in the middle of the Nether for some reason."

Snowyn Silverfield hummed again in thought, "For the mana buns, I do suggest just focusing on the flavor. What are your favorite flavors? What does a good pastry taste like? Focus on those questions and try to bring it all together into one, delicious morsel!" she said waving both hands together and conjuring a cookie. She beamed, almost squealing in anticipation before shoving it in her mouth, "If you think they'll always come out stale, then they will!" she giggled, swallowing the rest down like a savage, "Portals are a different story. You've got to concentrate hard on where you're putting one, otherwise it will get you stuck in the middle of nowhere, floating around aimlessly..." she looked up at the ceiling, "Oh... those were some fun, contemplative times. A lot of time to think even though I was gone for merely five minutes," she sighed, "Just takes practice and if you're not comfortable going in yourself, just make short portals like.... one from your room to the bathroom! Oh those help a lot!"

Catisa Wells furrowed her brow in thought, "Hmm, favorite flavor..." She repeated as though she were taking mental notes and watched her conjure a cookie with much glee! "Short portals? I never considered that. I was always cautioned against abusing that type of magic for such trivial distances..." She giggled at Snowyn's comments and nodded, "I'll have to try that, I appreciate the suggestions. I've even tried using some catalysts and focusing lenses to try and get it right, but something always feels off about them."

Snowyn Silverfield nodded her head and conjured a cookie for Catisa! She carefully levitated it over to her, "Give it a try! And I wonder who told you that. It's probably the easiest and safest way to try out portals - at least you can get your arm back if it gets severed and don't have to go wandering around looking for it!" she giggled nervously, rubbing her upper arm, "I mean it almost got severed, but still - there's risk in everything!" she said awkwardly, "But it does take practice and it may even take years to perfect it. I still can't make long-range portals - just convenient ones here and there."

Catisa Wells snickered, "It was a very... conservative and retired mage I served as an assistant to when he became an apothecary." She said as she received the cookie with wide eyes and took a bite. "It's good!" She exclaimed excitedly before munching down the rest. "Apologies I hadn't meant to bring up any bad memories, though perhaps we could help each other out in some ways with practice? After all it appears you are the first peer I have come across since joining, I would consider Master Wymrdust and the Director too experienced to be my peers or equals in any form." She chuckled a bit to cover up her embarrassment.

Snowyn Silverfield beamed with joy as she ate the cookie, "Oh thank you. With practice, I'm sure your baking can well exceed mine in no time. And certainly, I could benefit more from practice - haven't had a good practice session in...." she grimaced, "Ages. It would do me good to stop conjuring so many snacks - my metabolism will give out one day," she snickered, " And no worries - some of the best teachers were the ones who weren't very open - just a reminder to also be more open!" cheerfully.

Catisa Wells smiled sweetly to the woman, "I would certainly love that! And I certainly wouldn't mind if you practiced your baking skills with me either!" She teased before finishing off her glass of wine and lifting herself to her feet, once more fidgeting with the sling as her features grew red, "I like your enchanted bag!" She stated suddenly and held out a bag of her own that seemed deceptively full from within her crimson robes, "Would you be so kind...?" She finally managed to ask with a gesture toward the anti-itch salve jar still upon the table. "I would very much like to retreat to a private area to apply it... you've been so kind I will have to return the favor somehow."

Snowyn Silverfield rolled up her sleeves and nodded, "Certainly, I can help you with that," she looked down at the small purse at her hip, " Ah yes, I can make you one too if you need. Takes a few days to make and enchant, but it saves me so much time in finding everything I need and it saves on so much space!" she snickers, hands at her hips proudly, " Lead the way!" carefully levitated the jar back to her and tapped the top of the lid.

Catisa Wells stammered a bit, "I, erm, sorry I didn't mean to-" Her face was blood red and those brown eyes practically refused to make eye contact. "Sorry," She continued a bit meekly, "I just meant if you could help me put that into my own bag... I can apply it myself, there's no need for you to worry yourself any further over me!" She giggled nervously, "I just, last time I tried to put something into the bag by myself I spilled it and um, well it took days to clean up."

Snowyn Silverfield rushed forward, "Oh! My apologies, let me help..." she said levivating it, but hesitating. She looked up and blinked at her, "You certain? I can apply it. I helped my nephew a few times when he burnt himself on the stove - it's no big deal really. Though if you insist, I won't pursue the matter further," she smiled sweetly. If not, I understand - right! Go ahead and open up and I'll slip it in, no worries!”

Catisa Wells smiled shyly up at her, finally returning her gaze, "It's a bit embarrassing, really... I'd prefer to do this on my own, but I do appreciate your offer. You have been so kind." She smiled brightly and held her bag out, velvet with a golden trim hem. "Besides, I need a good hot bath. I still feel like I can smell the crypts we found the familiar and its conjurer in." She shuddered.

Snowyn Silverfield carefully levitated it over and into the bag, finding a nice place for it to settle without breaking or being at risk of breaking. Snowyn nodded, "You're most welcome, Miss Wells. If you do need help, I'm but a holler down the hall. I don't mind helping a fellow member at all," she straightened up and placed both hands at the small of her back, "I shall let you get to your bath then! If you need anything, please don't hesitate to reach out! I feel quite kindred to you - much like a missing sister! How I wish I had a sister... I got a brother whose other head leads him all the wrong skirts. And too many nieces and nephews I need to buy gifts for!” She laughed.

Catisa Wells giggled and nodded in thanks, tucking the bag back away within the contents of her robes, "I feel the same about you as well! Please don't hesitate to let me know if you need anything. I was an only child myself and my parents unfortunately passed when I was young, but the people here have begun to feel like a family all on their own. So don't be a stranger and feel free to knock on my door any time!" She grinned and offered the woman a friendly wave, "I'll see you soon, for the excursion into the labyrinth for the director, right? I thought I saw your name on the sign up sheet."

Snowyn Silverfield nods, "Yes! I'm signed up for it - it'll be a fun adventure, us two girls going out and figuring out what happened to those poor workers. I just hope they're alright..." she trailed off sadly, but quickly caught herself, smiling again, " And I will probably bug you a lot then! We'll have ourselves a good ol' fashion sleepover or something - whatever the kids are into these days. Do some baking and more ranting for sure!"

Catisa Wells giggled and turned to take her leave, covering her smile as she did so before offering a wave with her free hand. "It will be fun! I'm looking forward to working with you and yes I do hope we find them much more alive than we found that conjurer." She sighed and gave another look back before she rounded the corner, calling out, "Take care!"

Snowyn Silverfield waved, “It was a pleasure talking with you! See you soon for our excursion.”

"You as well!" She called back.

    Night terrors were nothing new to her, but these ones were something else. She almost felt like she was there. Though she shook her head and pushed such notions from her mind, she knew that couldn’t be true. Instead, she rose from her perch by the window and began to get ready for the day, fixing her hair and makeup to hide where she had been up crying all night. It takes more than this to keep her down. So many nights had been spent without sleep and instead of moping about she had always decided on the same solution: to use that time wisely. There were books to be read and formulas to solve, sleep was a luxury for those with time to do so and her ambitions were stronger than that. Her determination burned within her gut and with the light of a new day, she felt those fears melt away and her will to succeed renewed with vigor.

    She swung the door of her chamber open wide, the smell of breakfast already filled the corridors practically wafting through the estate to let everyone know it was ready and stepped out only to gasp and cling to the door frame. The floor beneath her foot had disappeared and once more she was looking down at the crashing waves on the Suramar shoreline. Her nails dug into the wood and the splinters drew blood, her eyes slammed shut as she struggled to catch her breath and keep her composure.