Xue was freezing, in all her life she could never remember feeling so cold in her life before the sight of her own breath condensing into clouds in front of her as she left the warmth of Ironforge had taken her by surprise. Unhinged walked along side her humming away to herself seeming unaware of how much the temperature had just plumeted.
“You doing alright there Xue? you look a little whiter that before,” Unhinged asked.
“It just so cold, how do you stand it,” Xue replied hugging herself tighter.s
“Ah this ain’t nothing,” Unhinged replied. “You just need a little more meat on your bones that’s all, I mean look are your rump a good few meals will fill that out nicely.
“My what?” Xue asked looking down at her companion, Unhinged laughed and smacked her ass.
“Your Rump,” she said still laughing, before Xue could even think of what to say next Unhinged fell silent and looked straight ahead. “Damn it they have come to the surface again, hope you have a few spells ready.”
Unhinged vanished before Xue’s eyes leaving the young draenei standing looking at a spot on the ground. Then she saw what had alerted the dwarf, three small figures walking towards them, all of them had black hair and horrible green flaking skin, they spotted Xue about the same time and with remarkable speed started to charge towards her. With a quick incantation and a gesture of her hand, the right most of the little figures was turned into a fluffy sheep, while at the same instant Unhinged appeared behind another and thrust her daggers into his back with out a sound he crumpled onto the ground.
The last one had not noticed that his comrades had fallen or been polymorphed, he was fully focused on attacking Xue, however as he closed the distance he also failed to spot that her hands appeared to be on alight, not until his vision was filled with a huge fireball did he realize the danger. He dove to one side and rolled down a small slope, but to his horror when he looked back he saw that it had followed him.
Looking down on the smouldering corpse Xue had to fight down the urge to throw up, it was not the first time she had seen a dead body, far from it in fact, but the smell these gnomes gave off was repugnant. Unhinged finished cleaning her blades and came over, she gave Xue a satisfied smile as she looked over at the sheep that was wandering about a short distance away looking very confused.
“Oh here come some mountaineers,” Unhinged commented pointing to a pair of dwarfs in green and brown armour. “They’ll take care of our little friend here.”
“Are they gnomes?” Xue asked Unhinged nodded. “What happened to them?”
“Treachery, one of the worst in the history of the Alliance, second only to that of Arthas” Unhinged told her grimly; as they watched the dwarf mountaineers beat the green skinned gnome into submission. “Come on we better get down there, before more little green men show up to greet us.”
The pair made their way towards the gnomes once glorious home city, scattered around the snow were all manner of devices that’s purpose was beyond Xue’s understanding. As soon as they stepped inside the mage could tell that, though the gnomes and dwarfs where similar in stature they had very different ideas when it came to architecture. The corridor sloped gently downwards and the walls appeared to be constructed of dark metal plates and bronze metal arches placed at regular intervals to support the roof, it ended in a room that appeared to have a sealed dome in its centre. This was connected to a column that disappeared up into a hole on the ceiling, as Xue stared in confusion the dome surged up from the floor revealing a lift rising up from underneath.
Unhinged calmly walked on to the lift and looked round a Xue who remained where she was. With a small had gesture the dwarf urged her to step on, which she did quickly and reluctantly, all the time looking up at the dome which now hung menacingly above them. Unhinged chuckled quietly at her nervousness and then without warning they were moving downwards the dome closing over their heads and any light from the surface was gone.
A faint green mist hung in the air as they stepped off the lift which strangely however did not taste of anything. There had clearly been a several battles here, some very old and others happening only a few days ago, the bodies of a dozen green skinned gnomes along with some of the ugliest creatures that Xue had ever seen. They had been slaughtered without much chance to fight back judging from the fact that most of their weapons lay resting and rusting against the wall.
“Yup this is the work of the Fist’s alright,” Unhinged commented. “They really go to town on their enemies here when they come back,” her tone had become somewhat sombre Xue noted as she watch the dwarf prod one of the bodies with her foot. “Leper gnome or Trogg it makes no difference to them, you go ahead I’m going to see if they have anything important on them.”
Xue moved through the tunnels which became wider and the green mist became more obvious to the eye. She began to worry that it would adversely affect her in some way but she felt no different and Unhinged appeared to be unaffected as well, so she tried to push her fear to the back of her mind. Around the passage ways were even more machines like the ones she had seen out side, some working others smashed beyond repair. Soon though she found themselves in a chamber larger than any she had ever seen in her life, the drop to the ground from the ledge which she now stood on was at least 100 foot massive cogs the size of buildings hung from the ceiling, in the centre was a column which should have risen and fallen like the thumping of a heart, powering the incredible machine, but it’s base was shattered and large parts of it lay strewn on the floor barely visible in the gas.
“Salutations, who are you?” asked a pleasant friendly voice. “Down here,” it added as Xue looked about for its source she did so and found the smiling face of a blonde haired gnome dressed in black leather looking back up at her.
“Hello, there Emi,” Unhinged said as she caught up with Xue. “This is Xue, Xue this is Emi Shortfuse one of the best demolition experts the alliance has.”
“Oh your such a liar Unhinged,” Emi giggled. “I am good with explosives though,” she added holding out her had to Xue.
“Pleased to meet you Emi,” Xue said shaking Emi’s hand.
“You here to see the Fists then,” Emi stated. “They’ll be in the Clean Zone, common I’m heading there now myself.” They followed the little gnome further down the narrow walkway which was covered in the bodies of yet more troggs. “He sure was angry this time,” Emi commented to herself, but said no more.
From out of the green mist in front of them two small figures stepped their weapons drawn, further back another two raised crossbows and aimed them at the trio, but then after seeing that it was Emi they stepped back allowing them to pass. Emi led them two another gnome who had a strange metal cap on his head that had a spinning black and while disc on the front which Xue found oddly distracting.
“Tink,” Emi called out as she approached him, “Unhinged has brought someone who wishes to speak to the Fists.”
“All right well Brimstone and Maestro are just over there, Tout’sweet and Rascal are deeper in to the city however.” The gnome called Tink explained. “Wait here, I’ll go see if they’re busy.” Xue watched as he walked over to the pair who sat at a small table in the corner seemingly relaxing, they look up at him, and then over his shoulder at her, she could tell that they were sizing her up then with a noncommittal shrug they both nodded to him. “They’ll send for Tout’sweet if they like what your proposing, but you’ll have to convince them first,” Tink told her when he got back.
“Well, good luck,” Unhinged said seriously. “Remember they may be small but they are the best and they don’t like people wasting their time so make it good,” she added and stepped back.
Taking a deep breath Xue walked over to the gnomes who were scrutinising her every move, but the Hand of Argus instructors had taught her to do the same. Brimstone had a darkness about her like all warlocks the burning desire for power and all that entailed, her black hair made her piercing blue eyes all the more apparent, her mouth seemed to be held in a serious smile, she had seen a lot of pain suffering and death, a significant proportion of this she had caused. As for Maestro much of his face was hidden behind a mass of dark brown facial hair, but his body language told Xue all she needed to know, he had fought for Gnomeregon before its fall and it pained him to his core to see it this way, also his paler skin colour suggested he had recently sustained an injury, a bad one. Through their wordless exchanges Xue recognized their total loyalty to each other, something she thought she and her former team had shared.
“Greetings and Salutations Xue,” Maestro said as she came close. “What brings a Draenei all the way from the Exodar to our city?”
“I come on behalf of the Hand of Argus,” Xue began. “We are seeking to employ you in hunting down and killing a former member of ours who has turned traitor.” The two gnomes exchanged a glance and then looked back at her.
“We have not had many dealings with the Hand of Argus but don’t their agents have a very specific tabard?” Brimstone asked.
“Yes currently I have resigned my commission with the hand due to internal politics,” Xue explained, cursing inwardly at her mage elder.
“So if you are no longer one of them, how can you be here on their behalf?” Brimstone inquired, Xue had to admit that was a good question.
“The Hand’s is stretched thin, our agents are hard pressed by the blood elf threat on our door step and aiding our night elf allies in Ashenvale,” Xue explained. “This prevented me from leading a team out after him myself.”
“That’s understandable, but you did not answer my question, if you’re no longer a member of the Hand of Argus how can you represent them?” Brimstone pressed, it was clear that she would not tolerate any confusion as to who their potential employers were.
“There are those among the Hand who feel that despite our lack of agents such treachery can not go unpunished so they offered me the funds to pursue the traitor without any bureaucracy to hinder us.” Xue explained. “If you need any further proof Unhinged was a witness to my receiving this task.”
“So we could be working for an organisation that would only be partly aware of us,” Brimstone stated. “That means we could find ourselves in a situation where we could come into conflict with them,” she added, Xue stared at the warlock unsure as to where to go from here a panic was rising in her mind that she might fail to bring Ezekyle to justice before she had really even started.
“Brimstone, she has come all this way and we aren’t committed to anything at this time, lets at least bring Tout’sweet up to speak with her,” Maestro suddenly interrupted, the warlock looked over at him sighed.
“Very well, Zorqua!” Brimstone called out.
“Yes mistress,” said a small demon that emerging from the shadows.
“Tout’sweet and Rascal are down in the depths, of the city find and tell them that we have a potential client in the clean zone who wants to talk to him.” Brimstone ordered, getting to her feet. “If you’ll excuse me I’ll have to confirm some of the things that you have told us.” With that she left Xue standing looking at her disappearing into the green mist.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
It was another beautiful day in Stranglethorn Vale as Oleysia and Saku emerged from the Zeppelin tower. A relaxed calm atmosphere hung over Grom’gol, the trolls stood at their cooking pots turning something into stew, the green armoured grunts that were not on the gates where lazing by the giant bonfire while the rest of the camps occupants went about their daily business.
“Uncle Saku!!” screamed Ulric and Kelda who had suddenly appeared. With complete disregard for their own safety they hurled themselves through the air at him.
“Why hello there little ones,” Saku laughed hugged them. “Where’s your mother?”
“She with Uncle Timur and Aunt Juna at the forge,” Kelda said then kissed him on the cheek.
“Their making more weapons for Daddy and his grunts at Thrallmar,” Ulric said.
“Are they now, well that is something,” Saku commented. “Would you two please take my friend here to the forge I have something to attend to then I’ll join you shortly.” He said putting them down on the ground, before Oleysia could say anything he was gone and the two orc children had taken a hand each.
“You’re Oleysia aren’t you,” Ulric stated. “I’m Ulric and this is Kelda”
“Well nice to meet you,” Oleysia responded.
“You have very soft hands,” Kelda said rubbing the warlocks left hand between hers and looking at it closely, then the twins both looked straight up at her with their big eyes and broad smiles. “Come on we’ll take you to mommy she’ll want to see you and uncle Saku,” Kelda said and the twins to pull her towards the forge with surprising strength.
Varlet was working with two other orcs who must have been Timur and Juna, Oleysia decided. All of them were hard at work making new weapons and armour, but as soon as she and the twins appeared they paused. Varlet put down her tools and came over while the others went back to work.
“Hello there Oleysia, what brings you here?” Varlet asked her tone rather formal.
“Master Zujin is sending me through the dark portal to aid Thrallmar,” Oleysia responeded, she was wary of Varlet who seemed to be rather cold towards her for some reason she did not know.
“Did he now,” was all Varlet said, though she looked like she was about to say more when suddenly the twins became very loud.
“Uncle Saku brought his kitty,” they yelled in delight and ran towards the huge cat which was bigger than them. Arashi was as docile as a lamb as the twins pulled and squeezed him, in fact he stared right into Ulrics eyes when the boy placed both hands on the side of the felines face and held it there. “Uncle Saku can we ride your kitty again?” Kelda asked.
“You need to ask him that Kelda, it’s his back,” Saku laughed, as if understanding what Kelda had asked Arashi lay on the ground and allowed the twins to clamber up, then when they were steady enough the cat rose and began to walk slowly around the camp, much to the children’s delight. “Its good to see you again Varlet,” Saku turning to look at her. “Your looking well.”
“Oleysia here tells me that my brother is sending you both through the dark portal, why?” Varlet asked, she seemed rather angry about it.
“Its complicated but it has to do with business, as always,” the hunter answered evasively. “I have a favour I would like to ask you?” he added quickly to cut off any further questions. “I need some one to look after Arashi.”
“You’re not taking him with you,” Varlet said the surprise clear in her voice. “But he’s been your pet now for years, ever since your exile in Winterspirngs, why leave him behind now?”
“Because he is dieing,” Saku stated sadly both females looked shocked. “His age means his strength is fading and he is not as quick to react as he once was. I don’t think he’ll last the year to be honest. It’s a big ask I know but I want him to be somewhere he can be happy, not die an agonising death on some far off battle field.” Varlet stepped up and hugged the hunter tightly in the way she did her brother.
“Of course I’ll look after him; and the twins with be over the moon to have him with us for the time he has left,” she said as the stepped apart.
“Thank you Varlet, now I’ll go say my goodbyes to him,” Saku said his expression was one of such sorrow that Oleysia felt tears well up in her eyes, it was then that she notice that Varlet was looking at her again.
“I don’t know why my brother is sending you out on your own, but if you even think about betraying him,” Varlet threatened.
“I would never think of betraying Master Zujin,” Oleysia said horrified by the accusation, Varlet laughed.
“Of course you would, you’re a warlock after all, just remember that if you do you’ll have me to deal with, am I making myself clear?” Varlet’s tone dripped malice
“Crystal,” Oleysia answered he voice cold and deadly, before either could say another word Saku returned with the twins, it was time for them to leave, the dark portal awaited.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Falkus removed his beat up old leather hat and rubbed his balled head, removing the sweat which had built up there; it was just too damn hot in these Blasted Lands. He and the groups two other human rogues had been sent forward to scout the path to the portal, the Master seemed keen to avoid any form of confrontation with either the demonic cults that had taken up residence in the area or the forces of Nethergrade keep. So far they had encountered nothing but, beasts and a very self righteous lost one called Kum’lsha who had been muttering about Dranethyst. Knowing that Ezekyle would have killed the worthless wretch on the spot for just existing Falkus had taken great pleasure in thrusting his punch dagger into Kum’lsha’s throat so as to rob his ‘comrade’ of a kill.
“Was that really necessary?” ask another of the rogues looking down at the still twitching corpse.
“No,” was all Falkus said as he put his weapon away. “Find anything interesting?” he asked.
“Nothing, the demon cults must be keeping themselves in the mountains,” the rogue answered.
“There have been no patrols from Nethergrade so our safest bet is just to move along the roads as quickly as possible,” added the other rogue.
“Ok then lets head back and inform the Master, we all know how little he likes to be kept waiting,” Falkus decided and the three rogues faded into the shadows.
They found the Master over seeing the placement of the last of the explosives within their former base. The orc warlock Jarag was wiring up the detonator carefully while Ezekyle stared off into the wilderness apparently uncaring about what was about to happen. Standing next to the Master was Mistress, his second in command, Falkus could tell from her body language, despite he thick robes, that she was upset by the destruction of the caves and consequently her two pets.
“Ah Falkus have you found us a path to the Dark Portal?” the Master asked him, Falkus nodded and bowed in response. “Then we have no further need of this place, Jarag lets see these explosives of yours.”
The warlock laughed and slammed his palm down on a large red button and there was a series of small thumps and the ground shook for a moment, before the cave entrance collapsed. With the rubble still settling the Master turned to view the thirty strong group. Orcs, humans, dwarfs, trolls and even a few gnomes knelt before him and the Mistress.
“We are about to move through into Outlands, there we will find more power than we could ever dream off,” he intoned. “But we must be careful so as not to draw attention to ourselves and a group of thirty strong mercenaries composing of numerous different races might raise a few eyebrows,” there was a few sniggers at this small joke. “Therefore we’ll break into groups of five each, representing your native factions those of you who belong to races that are part of the horde will head through to Thrallmar, while those of the Alliance will head to Honour Hold, from their head to Hellfire Citadel where we will set up a new base of operations. Jarag, Ezekyle and Falkus however you all have sizable bounties on your heads so you will remain with me, now getting going we will meet up again in three days,” with a wave of his hand he sent the other five groups on their way watching as the headed off in different directions so that when they did pass through the portal they would be sufficiently far apart so as to avoid raising suspicion, soon only the Master and the four of them remained.
“How are we going to make it through the portal Master?” Jarag asked, placing the detonator back in his backpack.
“With these,” the Master answered producing a small box filled with vials. “Invisibility potions, they won’t last long but they’ll get us past everything at the portal. What’s more the legion is attempting to retake gateway between the two worlds and so no one will notice us disappearing after we enter outlands.” He closed the box and placed it back within his robes. “Now we have no time to lose, the trip will be more difficult for us as we have no safe haven in which to rest,” with that said the group moved off leaving the cave in which they had lived destroyed, crushing everyone they had left behind inside.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
The leper gnome barely had time to realize that it had been killed before it’s corpse hit the ground, slain by, four stab wounds each slicing into an internal organ. With a satisfied smile Rascal kicked the corpse off the ledge before it could bleed too much on the floor, it disappeared into the mist with a trail of dark red blood following it down. She turned to see Tout’sweet smashing the heads of two more of their insane kinsmen together with such force their noses audibly broke, then as they stumble apart dazed from the attack he pushed them over the edge sending them to joined their dead comrade.
“Mista Tout’sweet sir,” said a high pitched voice, both gnomes turned to look as Zorqua ran up to them. “Mistress Brimstone send me to find you, says we have a client who could pay big money,” the imp said quickly then began panting for breath.
“A job eh? What is it?” Tout’sweet asked spotting Rascal’s eyes brightened at the hopes of fighting foes more worthy of her skills.
“Me not so sure Mista Tout’sweet sir, but it seemed to be a bounty,” the imp answered. “Mistress Brimstone gone to check the client’s story out, but Mista Maestro still up in the Clean Zone with um.”
“I don’t think this is a good time to be accepting any jobs, Zorqua go catch Brimstone and tell her to…” Tout’sweet began to say.
“Oh come on,” Rascal said loudly interrupting him. “Since when have the ‘Fists of Fury’ turned down a job, especially since we are free agents at the moment, think what that would do to our reputation.”
“Have you learned nothing here?” he demanded angrily, Rascal could not reply. “Or have you already forgotten that it was your drive for glory which almost got you and Maestro killed in outlands,” he reminded her with such viciousness’ it took her breath away. “We were just lucky that Rhea and her brother were about,” Rascal felt tears welling up in her eyes as he spoke. “I did not form the ‘Fists of Fury so that we could have fame and fortune, this is why we are here,” he declared thrusting his hands outwards indicating the city that surrounded them. “Our goal isto help retake our home city so that future generations have a home and are not refugees.”
“I’m sorry Tout’sweet,” Rascal said dropping to the ground sobbing. “I just wanted to prove to you that I could be the equal of Asta,” her tears splashed silently on the ground and then on to his boots and he stood in front of her.
“Is… is that what’s driving you?” he asked he voice losing all its anger, “You comparing yourself to Asta why?”
“Maestro told me how close you two had been when the city still stood, and that if the city had not fallen you would still be together.” Rascal said between sobs.
“Well my old friend may well be a powerful mage but he knew nothing about my relationship with Asta,” Tout’sweet told her firmly. “We were going our separate ways long before Gnomeregan fell and the last thing I want as part of the ‘Fists of Fury’ is some vain hypocritical immoral nasty person like her.”
“Are you going to throw me off the team?” Rascal asked genuinely scared, clinging tightly to him.
“Of course not, I know how tempting fame and glory are I revealed in it myself once or twice,” he assured her. “Just remember that this is what we are fighting for.” He pulled his head back and bit and kissed her, Rascal felt her legs weaken and she pulled him closer for support hoping to take this moment a little further.
“Umm… Mista Tout’sweet, are you wantin to take the job then?” Zorqua asked ruining the mood.
“Very well then yes, we are on our way,” Tout’sweet sighed it was clear that he had been of a similar mind set to Rascal just then. “We better get going then,”
“Hehe ok then Race ya,” Rascal giggled, activating her rocket boots and blasting off into the distance. Tout’sweet shook his head and then activated his own, leaving four small trails of fire and a small pool of blood on the ledge. As he tore after her the veteran warrior could only hope that she had learnt her lesson, he really did not like to think about how close Rokash had actually come to breaking their little group.
* * * * 4 Weeks Ago * * * *
Chalk white and covered in blood Rascal and Maestro staggered into the small camp, the mages breathing was becoming rapid, shallow he needed healing soon or he would die. Luckily though a old friend of the group had found there camp and was sitting talking to Tout’sweet and Brimstone. Their conversation however ended abruptly when they caught sight of their two comrades.
“Damn it what the happened?” Tout’sweet yelled leaping from his seat and racing over to help them. Neither however were in a fit state to answer him and both collapsed.
“Let me look at then Tout’sweet,” Rhea said and knelt beside them. “Rascal here drink this quickly,” she said thrusting a large round bottle filled with a thick red liquid into the rogues hands. “Maestro is in need of my most powerful spell all of you stay back,” Rhea’s hands began to glow steadily brighter until they were painful to look at. “Live,” Rhea yelled and unleashed the magic onto the gnome’s broken body and for a moment the light connected her hands to him then it vanished and his wounds had healed.
“Tout’sweet,” Brimstone suddenly said. “ I sense a Fel’hunter approaching, they were being tracked.” She stared out into the darkness, “Who were you fighting?” she asked.
“It was Rokash, we thought we had the drop on him,” Rascal said in a weak voice, Tout’sweet’s face became a mask of anger. “Tout’sweet I’m sor…” she began to applogise.
“We need to get out of here now,” the warrior declared loudly not looking at her. “Rhea you said your brother is close can you find him.
“Yes but it’ll will take some time,” Rhea said already heading for her horse.
“Leave that to me, I recognize the Fel’hunter that is tracking them,” Brimstone stated, looking at a Warp Stalker that had just wander close to the camp. “And I have an idea.”
“Do it I’ll stay with these two and make sure they are safe.” Tout’sweet ordered.
The silence and speed with which the duo moved through the forest was astounding considering one of them was a tauren in full plate armour. Rokash carried his tree trunk on his shoulder as he jog along side Haron and his Fel’Hunter with ease as they entered a small clearing not seven hundred metres away from the Fist’s of Fury’s camp.
“We’re getting close Rokash,” Haron whispered. “Be ready.”
“I’m always ready,” the large tauren snorted “Look out something is coming this way,”
A Warp Stalker ran into the clearing, all over its body patches of its thick hide had been burned away, while in other parts open wounds bled profusely, a large chuck of its tail was gone and its lower jaw seemed broken in several places, its right eye was hanging from its socket but its left was glazed over in terror. All the injuries had an ominous green glow eminating from within them, it was clear that the beast was in a great deal of pain and close to death.
“I’ll put it out of its misery,” Rokash stated and grabbed it in one massive hand in preparation to break its neck.
“Rokash, NO!” Haron yelled as he recognized the trap, but it was too late.
The beast exploded, ribbons of flesh and gore splashed over Rokash, some bile even landed on his helmet not that he actually noticed as he suddenly found himself holding a very pissed off Doomgaurd by the back of the neck. With a earthshaking roar the demon smashed its wings back into the tauren breaking free of his grip and thrusting itself forward.
Rokash though was not about to let it get far and swung his trunk at it clipping the demons shoulder and knocking it to the ground. Haron began to cast a banishing spell hoping to keep the doomguard under control, but as he did so he heard a distinctive whistling noise that could only have meant one thing.
“Ah crap,” the forsaken warlock muttered a moment before he was tossed through the air like a rag doll landing in an inelegant heap in the ground. Emerging from the massive creator that had appeared behind him was a very large infernal indeed.
Near by the Doomgaurd and Rokash were fighting over the warriors tree trunk, both had one end of the powerful weapon and where heaving it one way or the other in and attempt to dislodge the other. The demon seemed slighting surprised that the massive tauren was able to match its strength and it decided to used its third pair of limbs to tip the balance. It flapped its wings with increasing force in an effort to batter Rokash away and pull the trunk out of his grasp, but he did something then that it had not really expected; he let go.
Timing his move to exactly when the demon was pushing forwards on its wings so as the beast had maximum backwards velocity, the Doomguard flew backwards into a large rock with the trunk still in its hands. As a result it was crushed between the two and let out and roared in pain.
“Haron what the hell are you playing at, Banish this thing!” Rokash yelled as he charged towards the demon
“Sorry big guy but I got problems of my own here,” Haron called back as he dodged a blow from the infernal, noting the black chains encircling its chest. At that moment his Fel’hunter attacked throwing itself through the air and attempting to bit the flaming demons neck, its attack achinved nothing though as the Infernal knocked it to the ground with ease but it gave Haron the breathing time he needed to play his ace.
“MILTON SMASH!” Harons own infernal as it leapt from a second crater that it had just formed. Haron laughed as his powerful demon attacked its fellow demonic shock trooper with gusto. But as he did so he failed to notice that the chains around the other one had vanished as soon as Milton hit it.
“Ok Rokash I can banish it now,” Haron yelled as he spun to see his friend enveloping the doomguard in a massive bear hug. “Just hold him still for a seco…” he stopped mid sentence as he felt a hand tapping him on the shoulder, half turning he saw a Voidwalker with a satisfied smirk a moment before it punched him in the face. Staggering back from this sudden attack he was unable to block it as it hit him again this time in the abdomin, somehow though he managed to utter the words for his banishing spell and the purple demon was trapped half in this world and half in another.
It seemed though that Rokash did not need much in the way of help in fighting the Doom Guard. As he smashed it into the ground and pulled its wings back with enough force to break them, the demon though despite the pain it must have been suffering threw him of its back and jumped to its feet, or rather hooves. In its right hand was a demonic Fel’blade which burned with a dark green fire and was covered in dried blood, but as deadly as this weapon seemed Rokash saw it for what it was; desperation. Indeed when swung the blade in a powerful downwards arch intent on remove his right arm at the shoulder he easily moved his upper body out of the way before smashing his fist into the demons already wounded abdomen.
With a loud grunt of pain the demon collapsed onto its hand and knees trying to catch its breath, not that Rokash was about to let it do that. He was on it the moment it hit the ground wrapping his arm left arm around its neck tightly and then using all his considerable strength he twisted its head until there was a loud crack and the Doom Guard went limp.
Milton continued to roar as it smashed chucks off the other infernal; that was until it took a punch to the head destroying its lower jaw. Haron hurled shadowbolts at the enemy demon giving Milton the edge, together they beat the other infernal down until it could no longer sustain its own form and crumpled to dust. But even as it did so Haron spotted the architect of the whole battle standing on a branch high up in one of the trees, looking down on both him and Rokash. Brimstone gave the forsaken warlock and cold smile before pulling a cloak over herself and vanishing from sight.
“What the hell was that?” Rokash said clearly pissed off. “I thought you warlocks could only control one demon at a time, how was she able to command three.”
“She didn’t need to control them Rokash, just the situation,” Haron replied. “She got us to fight the demons that would have otherwise attacked her, if there is one thing that Roskec Brimstone does very well its in controlling situations.”
“Well she did a very poor job of it if she thinks those demons would be able to defeat us,” the tauren said mockingly.
“But she was not trying to defeat us Roksah, merely delay us so that her friends could escape us,” Haran said as he re-summoned his Fel’Hunter. “Hmm, just as I suspected the trails gone cold…”
* * * * Present day * * * *
Tout’sweet looked up at their potential client with some confusion as she explained the situation to him, she was claiming to represent The Hand of Argus but was not actually a part of that organisation and she wanted to hire them to go after another former member who had betrayed them. Such a thing he thought would have been more of an internal matter, but the gold she was offering was not something that a private citizen could afford. It was not long though before Brimstone reappeared and he politely excused himself to go talk to her.
“What have you found out?” he asked the warlock as the other two joined them.
“Well there was a Draenei delegation in Ironforge, so I was able to talk to a few of them,” Brimstone replied. “She is telling the truth, she is representing the Hand of Argus, but they don’t have the man power to pursue the traitor themselves.”
“So then its agreed we’ll take the job?” Tout’sweet asked the rest of them they all nodded.
“Oh there is one more thing, Ezekyle the traitor was the leader of Xue’s team when he betrayed them he almost killed her and murdered the others,” Brimstone added.
“Ok then I’ll set her straight on a few things and we’ll getting going so pack up your things,” Tout’sweet told them, he walked back over to Xue, he could tell by her face that she was nervous that he was going to turn her down. “Ok Xue we have decided to take the job, but first we need to talk.”
“Of course,” Xue said the relief clear in her voice.
“Firstly I’m in charge, you may be paying us but I’ll decide how we actually go about completing the job, is that clear?” Tout’sweet stated Xue nodded in agreement. “Secondly I need to know are you after Justice or Revenge?”
“I’m not sure I understand?” Xue said honestly
“Your friends were murdered by this traitor and he left you for dead, such things always provoke strong desire for revenge, I however will not risk my life or that of my friends so that you can settle a score with this Ezekyle.” The gnomes expression was the most serious that Xue had ever seen. “Now I’ll ask again, are you after Justice for your people or revenge for yourself?”
“Justice,” Xue answered, his expression softened slightly.
“Good answer, but if I think for one moment that your after revenge your on your own gold or no gold,” after he said this his face returned to the serious but friendly expression. “Now go get your gear ready, we’ll head to Black fathom depths immediately.”
* * * * * * * * * * * *
The wyvern ride from the dark portal to Thrallmar was a real eye opener for Oleysia as to just how much of a free for all outlands was, she saw the legion, fel orcs, horde and alliance all clashing together in numerous small battles. Eventually though she spotted the hordes base of operations a large war camp, she quickly spotted the marksmen in the towers keeping a sharp eye out over the wasteland for any sign of danger.
Saku was waiting for her as she landed; with a wave of his hand he indicated that she should follow him to the inn. What really surprised her was the sheer number of other mercenaries in the camp some were preparing to head out while others were returning, a good number though were relaxing within inn though there was a noticeable number of grunts among them just to keep order.
“Why are there so many mercenaries here?” Oleysia asked Saku quietly.
“Because the camp commander has pulled all army forces back within Thrallmar and has ordered that mercenaries be used for any operations beyond the rage of the marksmen or the catapults.” Saku explained. “You’ll be seeing the Bood Guard in charge of mercenary contracts later today, but for now stay close and watch,” he told her.
They purchased some drinks and found a table that was only occupied by a single troll who was passed out. For a moment Oleysia was shocked that Saku expected her to sit next to this drunk but a look from the hunter told her he expected just that and she sat down. With a shake of his head he took a mouthful of his drink and looked about the inn.
“Tell me can you see any new faces to the camp besides us?” he asked her with a smile.
“How would I know that?” she asked, he sighed and took another drink.
“Well look around you most of the mercenaries here have been fighting in hellfire for weeks,” he stated. “Look how relaxed they are even though there are armed grunts keeping an eye out for trouble, not only that but see how they are joking and conversing with them.” He explained Oleysia nodded. “Now look at that young orc girl over there, the one sitting on the grunts lap, she is a newcomer but she is overcompensating for this by being, well, ‘over friendly’ shall we say.”
“Those orcs and trolls on the two tables in the corner are keeping to themselves,” Oleysia said, though she was not sure of this. “In fact the only one that is looking outward is that small orc,” she added as the orc was staring lustfully at the girl on the grunts lap, he made a comment to his companions and laughed, they though ignored him.
“Very good,” he complimented her. “Ah, here comes the Blood Guard with the new assignments,” he said as a large orc appeared at the entrance to the inn flanked by two others each holding a small chest with scrolls inside. Silence descended on the room and all eyes turned to look at him, for a moment he said nothing just looked about the room his face grim.
“Alright you all know the drill,” the officer stated. “I’ll call out the name of the leader of your group and they come and collect the assignment and then sit back down again.” The orc to his left handed him a scroll and he begun, one by one a member from each table stood up and collected a scroll then sat back down and soon both chests were empty. “Alright, from the reports that many of you brought back its clear that the Fel Orcs and building up their numbers in the Peninsula and they have been sending out heavily armed groups in all directions, if you can identify any possible reason for this then let us know as its vital for the safety of Thrallmar and for yourselves if you want to continue getting paid,” the inn erupted in laughter at the last part, he let it go for a bit then held up his hand. “Secondly I thought I told you lot to be hit the road yesterday,” the inn fell into a tense silence as the Blood Guard stared at the group in the corner. “Thrallmar can not afford to carry any dead weight, so pay for your drinks and get out!” The large group stood up and made its way out of the inn looking very offended.
“Come on they’re not going to go without trouble,” Saku whispered as he stood up and joined the crowd of other mercenaries and grunts who where following to make sure that their unwanted guests left in good order. Unfortunately the hunter proved correct as the last of the turned.
“It orcs like you and that pathetic Warchief who have made the horde as spineless as it is today,” it was the orc who had been lusting after the girl on the grunts lap a few minutes ago. Every one stopped and tension filled the air, all eyes turned to look at the Blood Guard.
“You lot should keep your peons on a tighter leash,” the Blood Guard sneered mocking the shortness of the insulting orc, everyone laughed at this comeback but the little orc was clearly not amused as he drew a blade and charged the officer.
Lashing out it was clear that he intended to ram the short blade into the larger orcs throat, but he never even got close. Instead the Blood Guard used his greater reach to grab his attacker by the wrist and adding to his already powerful forward momentum slammed him face first into the stone inn wall. Then the officer grabbed the stunned runt by the back of the neck and threw him to his right where the small orc smashed in to the ground in a cloud of orange/red dust. The fight would have ended there but another of the group, a troll, seeing their small comrade being beaten rushed to his aid with the aim to stab his opponent in the back.
Saku reacted faster than everyone else and tackled the troll at waist height sending them both sprawling to the ground. The troll lashed out with his blade but hit nothing but air, it was the only attack he got as the hunter drew a long dagger that had not one but two black metal blades shaped into a V and with an eerie purple glow to them. He used it to pin the troll’s right hand, in which he held his weapon into the ground via his wrist and trap him. The others in the outcast group had remained where they were, not that they would have had a chance to help their comrades as the other grunts had drawn their weapons and surrounded them.
“Enough!” roared the Blood Guard, hauling the smaller orc to his feet. “Saku let that idiot up,” he added as he pushed the runt into his friends. “Take your garbage and get out of my camp, NOW!” With the help of the grunts shoving them in the direction of the main gate the group left Thrallmar. “Ok you lot shows over, get out there and earn your gold,” he said dismissing his audience as they did he turned and came over to Saku. “Finally back in outlands then,” he commented with a big grin
“Aye it’s a good thing too, otherwise who else would watch your back,” Saku laughed. “Oleysia this is Jarax, Varlets other half.” He said introducing her, she held out her hand and smiled.
“Ah so you’re the one Varlet was talking about when she came back that night,” Jarax said engulfing her hand with his and shaking it. “Did Zujin send you out to assist Saku?” he asked.
“No, she is here as a mercenary to help Thrallmar,” Saku replied for her, Jarax look surprised.
“Really, well we appreciate your help Oleysia, though I don’t have a group to assign you to and all the assignments are out for today,” he applogised.
“That’s alright sir, it’ll give me time to get to know the place and sort out my gear,” Oleysia replied looking about the place.
“Very well then, report to me in the fort tomorrow morning I’m sure I’ll have something for you then. Anyway I need to go fill Nazgral on what just happened here he’ll want to know everything,” Jarax said.
“I’ll have to be going soon there is trouble in Shadowmoon and Zujin asked me to take care of the ones who are causing it,” Saku replied. “It was good to see you again though Jarax,” he added and Jarax nodded and headed for the fort. “Come on let find you a place to sleep,” he said to Oleysia.
The inn was a lot quieter now as all the mercenaries had left to complete the assignments that they had been given. Still the young orc girl was there happily chatting up one of the few remaining grunts who were off duty and relaxing. She looked up and smiled at Saku giving him a suggestive wink as well, but then went right back to flirting with the orc whose lap she was sitting on.
“Innkeeper my young companion here is in need of a room,” Saku said to the forsaken behind the bar.
“Is she here to aid Thrallmar?” he asked in a very dry voice.
“Yes, Blood Guard Jarax said I would be given my first assignment tomorrow,” Oleysia replied.
“Very well if you will follow me this way I will show you to your room,” with that he led her to the room that would become her home for the next few weeks.
* * * * * * * * * * * *
Woozily Torgina climbed to her feet, looking around she spotted Beladia lying on the ground next to the bed and quickly moved over to check on her. The night elf did not seem to have sustained any injuries and her breathing was steady but for the moment Torgina could not rouse her so she decided to try look about and see what had happened. First she went to the large wooden door that their ‘Mistress’ had used to keep then out of the reach of any of their other captors, it opened easily enough but the next section of the cave had collapsed.
“Oh my head, what happened?” Beladia asked as she rose up.
“I think they have brought the cave down on us,” Torgina replied.
“So are they gone?” the night elf said as she carefully rose to her feet before falling back onto the bed.
“Well I don’t think they would have done this if they were still inside,” Torgina replied with a weak smile as she came over to help Beladia back onto her feet. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah I’ll be ok, is there anyway out?”
“The tunnel to the surface is blocked, but that’s all I have checked at the moment, rest for a moment longer I’m going to check the back of this section.”
Leaving her companion to clear her head Torgina moved to look in the back of the cave, the magical light which had been illuminating the caverns was beginning to fade and soon it would be gone completely. But they had got a break what ever their captors had done to bring down the entrance had also weakened the rear wall of their cave and she found a underground stream to quench their thirst. What was more she heard a faint sound that could only be a pickaxe hitting rock, there were other surviours and if they could dig towards each other maybe they could all escape, boosted by this thought Torgina headed back to check on Beladia…