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“You expecting that bad of a fight?”

The rogue looked up with a slight shrug of her shoulders. “Always safer to expect one than not, right?” The bruising from her broken nose was starting to fade, now a sickly green color against the lavender of her skin.

“Of course.” Kyraine pulled out a chair and dropped into it. “What should I expect?”

“Ti’Shoren and I go way back. He did the occasional deal with Lyas so that brought him to Darnassus on occasion. He brokers solely in information, keeps his nose clean of everything else. Might be he’s more ruthless for it.” She ran a hand through her hair. “When I left Lyas’ employ he continued to contact with me up until I joined Seven.” Lorelli held up one dagger and then the next. They must have passed the examination because she returned them their places on her belt. “He refused to speak with me ever since. So, I guess this is kind of a big deal.”

“Could be a trap.”

Lorelli grinned at the other woman across the table, “Could be. That’s what you’re here for.” The rogue got to her feet, pushing in her chair, “Ready to go?”

Kyraine rose after her and picked up the helm, “Sounds like fun.” Blue, who’d been lying next to her chair, raised his had as she moved. He pushed himself up on his massive paws and followed to the door.

Lorelli paused to glance back at the empty table, going back over her conversation with Bricu in her head. Next time lass, just user yer own knife to cut yerself. It’ll save us the fuckin’ trouble. She could still hear the sound of her knife clattering against the table as he’d tossed it back to her.

“Not too much, I hope. I have more than enough people angry with me.”

***

With the rebuilding of Stormwind came expansion beyond its original walls and the addition of at least fifty new taverns, bars and inns. One of these was the Little Flipper nestled in amongst the docks and storage sheds of the harbor district. Considering its locale the Flipper was well lit and clean, but small. Lorelli had to duck a swath of fish netting coming through the door. Behind her she heard Kyraine telling Blue to stay as not all of the city’s drinking establishments were as tolerant of animals as the Pig and Whistle.

The bartender was a dwarf who’s long grey beard was gathered at his waist with a silver tie that had small seashells dangling from it. He hailed them from behind the bar as he finished pouring a drink for one of the other patrons.

“Welcome, have a seat. What can I get you ladies?”

Lorelli paid no heed to the drinkers at their respective tables. She crossed to the bar and gave the dwarf a smile. “We came to see the shore.”

For a moment the bartender’s smile faltered. He recovered shortly and nodded. “O’course. Pair o’ pretty things like you, why wouldn’t yeh be? T’is a little cold fer swimmin’ but the view is nice if yeh like that sort o’ thing. S’cuse me a moment.” He set the bottle down and disappeared into the back room.

Lorelli glanced over her shoulder at Kyraine. “Keep your hand near your sword.” The look Kyraine shot her was equal parts irritation at the rogue’s need to state the obvious and alertness.

The dwarf reappeared and eyed them both up and down once. “There’s a great view just down the way. Take a left out the door, head west for two blocks and turn towards the water. Say hello to the man in blue and tell him Vereid sent you.”

Lorelli placed a couple coins on the counter which the bartender, Vereid, scooped up and dropped into his apron.”Thank ye kindly, miss.” He leaned over the counter dropping his voice, “Be careful, aye?”

The rogue nodded and added a few more coins to the bartender’s collection. She turned and headed out the door, Kyraine following close behind.

“A warning?” The warrior asked.

“Maybe. He was difficult to read.” Lorelli raked a hand through her hair, making her anxiety evident. “I think we take it as such for now, eh?” She stopped and turned to face the other woman. “What do you think? We can head back to the Pig and forget this. Your call.”

Kyraine seemed to consider. Blue had come to stand calmly at his master’s hand, eyes bright and alert. “I say we press on. What are the chances he’ll grant you another meeting if you bail on this one? If he’s still as connected as he used to be we could learn somewhat. And there’s two of us now, aye? Three, if you count Blue.”

“Which I do.” Lorelli patted the wolfhound-mix on the head before starting out again.

There was indeed a young man dressed in a blue coat on the corner when they reached the correct intersection. He was a human of roughly sixteen, the coat a little lose on his lanky frame. His dark hair was fell in his eyes in curls and he seemed uncomfortable with it that length as if he’d recently cut it short and it was finally growing out again.

“Nice day, huh?” Lorelli nodded to him when they got close, “Vereid, sent us to you for the grand tour.”

The young man eyed them both, lingering a while on Kyraine’s armor and weapon.

“He did, did he? I suppose you booked in advance then?”

Lorelli nodded, “Reservations should be well in hand.”

He nodded, once again eyeing Kyraine. “I’m going to pass you off to Sammy.”

He whistled and a girl even younger than he was came scrambling out from one of the alleyways. At least Lorelli was fairly certain she was a girl. It was hard to tell, as Sammy was skin and bones buried under lots of dirt. She couldn’t have been more than thirteen, with scraggly strawberry blond hair. She stopped in front of the pair and upon spotting blue her gray eyes lit up. She held out a hand for the dog to sniff. Blue seemed perfectly content to allow Sammy to scratch him behind the ears showing no sign that she could possibly be a threat. Shortly the girl gestured for them to follow, turned and skipped off down the street.

Lorelli and Kyraine exchanged a quick glance, shrugged and followed.

***

Sammy lead them through a nondescript door off an alleyway somewhere in the west end of the harbor district. The room was dark and smelled heavily of smoke and something else. The scent wafted through a entryway on the right. Blue paused, whining softly.

“Lore, you smell that?” Kyraine asked.

“Faintly. What is it?”

“S’Lotus.”

Lorelli came to a stop so abruptly Kyraine walked into her. The rogue stood there, mind racing. Could be a coincidence but it would just be stupid to assume such.

“S’not too far to the door. It’s your call, Lore.” Kyraine’s voice behind her was much calmer than Lorelli felt. It helped to steady her and she shook her head.

“No. If it is a trap we’re too far in now. Honestly, I like our chances better fighting than running.”

“Aye.” Kyraine patted her leg and Blue hesitated only a moment before crossing the few feet to stand at her side. .

Sammy was waiting for them in the doorway up ahead. The child stepped aside as they approached, bowing them through into the next room. It was much larger than the entryway, hazy and poorly lit. Around the room small pockets of people spoke quietly or engaged themselves in cards, dice, drink or the Lotus they had smelled upon entering.

“Smell’s starting to make my head swim.” Kyraine’s voice was quiet but to Lore’s ears it seemed to echo off every wall. All conversation had stopped as they walked in.

In the back of the room was a raised dais upon which a pile of cushions rested. Seated on the cushions was a very handsome kal’dorei male. His hair was a blue so pale it was almost white and it shown like a beacon in the gloom. On his right side sat a female Draenei, her hair up-swept, the neckline of her dress cut low, the slit at each leg cut high. She was regal and elegant and very much stood out. Behind them, at the back of the dais, leaning agains the wall were three figuresl. The left and right were large men, human with faces that said they’d been in more than a few nasty brawls. Yet, the one that caught and held Lorelli’s attention was the one in the middle. He was smaller than the other two, but his manner suggested he was very much in charge. Despite his hooded and shadowed face, she could construct his features from memory, see the cold malicious gaze in his eyes. It helped to imagine that his face probably mirrored her own, if not worse.

“You have got to be fucking kidding me.” She breathed.

“Hrm?” Kyraine was tense, next to her all of Blue’s fur was standing on end.

“That’s him. The cartel thug I fought.”

Kyraine stepped closer to Lorelli, her gaze locked on the middle man, her expression suggesting she’d very much like to run him through. The rouge almost expected the other woman to get between her and the group before them. Ti’Shoren’s voice broke the silence.

“Don’t hide back there, come here, come here. It’s been a long time.”

Lorelli set her shoulders and started towards the dais. Every step seemed to take forever. She found herself wishing in part that she hadn’t brought Kyraine into this, the other part of her extremely glad she had. If it came down to it, she would make sure the warrior made it out alive.

Ti’Shoren expression was warm and a broad smile graced his face. As the women entered the light from his lantern, his eyebrows shot up in surprise.

“Sweet Light of Elune, Lore! What have you done to your face?” He leaned forward eyeing more than just her nose. “Tsk tsk. Pity.”

Lorelli shrugged, “It’s nothing. Just a disagreement between associates.”

Ti’Shoren straightened up again, “You don’t say? ‘Cause the way I hear it, [i]someone[/i] almost took you out of the Game for good. Admittedly, I am very interested in who that might be.”

“Why? You looking to higher some more folks? I could make some recommendations.” She made a show of sliding her gaze to the trio against the walll. “Thought it seems like you’ve got a full house already.”

He pursed his lips, “True. And good help is not cheap. Though it does bring to mind…” He trailed off waving his hand at the three men, “Leave us. I’ll send Sammy for you shortly.”

The middle man was the last to leave the wall. He watched Lorelli and Kyraine all the way until he was out the door.

Ti’Shoren patted the pillows in front of him, “Come, sit. Let’s not stand on ceremony, shall we.”

Lorelli came to perch on the edge of the dais. Kyraine and Blue remained standing at her shoulder. The rogue turned to face the other elf and his Draenei companion. “You do know your friend there is not in your sole employ, right?” She inclined her head after the three who’d left.

“Well of course, my dear. They’re mercenaries. They work for the highest bidder.”

Lorelli shook her head, “I’m not sure that’s true in this case. Shoren, give me five minutes with your man and ensure that no one will interfere. I’ll expose the truth [i]and[/i] tell you who almost killed me the other night.”

Kyriane’s hand clamped hard on the rogue’s shoulder. “Lore, you can’t. I’m not taking the blame if you decide to be stupid again.”

Ti’Shoren tapped a finger against his lips, smiling, “Lore, I do so much like your friend. She may not have the same type of beauty as yours but extremely charming nonetheless. Might I keep her?”

Lorelli scowled, hands going toward her daggers. The Draenei’s voice stilled them all, sounding as if it was coming from somewhere far off.

“Be wary of that one, she carries the curse and a wealth of blood matted in fur.” All heads had turned to look at the womani as she’d spoken.

“Saihira is a Seerer. A very useful treasure to have around in my line of work.” Ti’Shoren trailed a finger along Saihira’s jawline. She smiled serenely.

“So it would seem.” Kyraine’s reply sounded as if it came from between clenched teeth.

Ti’Shoren looked between the two women before him a moment, considering. “Interesting…” He rose to his feet and crossed to a small table laden with glasses and bottles. He poured himself a drink and turned back to face them. “As for your request, Lore. I’m afraid I have to decline. From the lines of your body, I’m pretty sure I know who you went up against, it explains a fair amount. I’d tell you to watch your back but I’m sure you’re already fully aware there’s a rather large target on your back. Regretfully, there is something else I need.” He snapped his fingers and at least one ‘patron’ from the tables around the room stood and drew weapons.

Lorelli was on her feet in a heartbeat drawing daggers. Kyraine was at her back, sword drawn, Blue had his eyes on Ti’Shoren, teeth bared, his growl deep and very threatening.

“Kyr, if we live, let’s not tell anyone about this, okay?”

“Good idea.”

“Oh, don’t be so dramatic.” Ti’Shoren waved his hand, “That’s enough my friends. I got what I wanted.” He hopped down from the dais as chairs scraped from others taking their seats. He made his way to stand in front of Lorelli.

“What are you going on about?” The rogue demanded.

Ti’Shoren was a full head taller than she and much broader in the shoulders. He was attempting to be imposing, it was almost working. “You hoped I’d miss it. The catch in so usually a fluid motion, the slight wince. You can’t fool me, you forget how I am. How long will your injury last, do you suppose? Will you ever be the same? Will muscle and tendon ever fully recover? I know a few who would pay rather well for this tidbit of information.”

Lorelli glared at him, “What have you gotten yourself into, Shoren?”

“Information, my dear. Same as always. That’s all the Game has ever been. Information. Who knows the most about who.” He took a sip from his drink. “I believe we’re done here. You may go, no one will trouble you on your way out.” He turned and made a bow to Kyraine, “It was lovely meeting you, please feel free to come see me [i]any[/i] time. Oh and Lore, if you see Wallace on your way out, tell him and his friends to come back in.” He left them standing there, returning to Saihira.

“Do you think he was serious?” Kyraine asked Lorelli quietly.

“I honestly wish I could say.”

“Do we have a plan B?”

Lorelli smiled ruefully, “That’s assuming I had a plan A.” She started for the exit, “So, the plan is, we walk calmly towards the door.” She only glanced over her shoulder once to make sure Kyraine was behind her.

They made it without incident out to the street and all the way back to Old Town before either of them even began to think about relaxing.

“I don’t know about you,” Lorelli finally spoke, “but I need a drink. And a big big bone for Blue.” She patted the dog fondly on the head.

“So, was it a success? Did we learn anything?”

Lorelli nodded, “I think we did. I’ll let you know as soon as I figure it out.”

The rogue dropped silently from the roof and made her way to stand the doors-width from Annalea. “How is she?” Out of the corner of her eye she watched Anna’s head whip around to look at her. Perhaps she should be more careful in the future about startling magic users.

“Lore? What are you doing?” Anna’s voice carried an undercurrent of concern. It made sense, both Illi and Kyraine had been the targets of attacks and there was no disputing it was related to the Lotus runners and this Angel who seemed to be in charge. The natural assumption was that Lore herself had been identified and would be next. Which of course, was the point of tonight’s escapade but no one but Lore knew of that plan.

Lore stretched, she had sat on the roof an awfully long time. “Keeping an eye on Illi and Kyr.”

Anna raised an eyebrow, “Oh? And who’s keeping an eye on you?” Of course Anna knew what the rest of the Riders were up to that evening, but would she believe there was still a guard trailing Lore? Probably not, the rogue knew her colleagues better than that.

“Every one’s busy planning. There wasn’t much else I could do to help, so I thought I’d make myself scarce. Keep out of trouble.”

“By trying to get yourself killed?” Anna asked incredulously.

“Of course no…” she paused. There had been something faint, just enough of a sound to catch her attention. She held up a hand for quiet, then put a finger to her lips. “Stay here. Keep your eyes and ears open.”

Anna started to protest but the other woman had disappeared. “Lore? Lore!” She threw up her hands in disgust, “Bloody Elune…” Something told her now would be a good time to get in touch and find out who had Lore guard duty tonight.

***

Lore made her way across Old Town using the network of alleyways and rooftops. Someone was tailing her and it wasn’t one of the Riders. This was exactly what she’d been waiting for. Now to hope this wasn’t as much of a fool’s errand as it easily could become. First she needed to lead them away. Away from the Pig, away from Anna and Kyraine. Away from anyone else who might come by the bar.

They stayed right with her. That was fine. Perfect even. The key was not tipping the other off that she actually wanted to be followed. Out of Old Town, across the canals, into the Cathedral District. She ducked behind the large shadow of a chimney billowing smoke into the night sky. There she held her breath. Whoever they were, they were good. She almost didn’t hear them moving past her hiding spot. There was faint scraping of boot leather as they dropped into the alley below.

Lorelli moved soundlessly toward the ledge. On first glance over she almost missed him tucked back into a shadowy corner as he was. He appeared to be of average height for a human, leather clad and hooded, in good health although slight of build. The daggers on his belt were well taken care of, but the hilts showed signs of wear. So he knew how to use them, this could get interesting. Quickly, quietly. She’d only get one shot at this she knew.

She dropped from the roof, one arm coming hard around his neck. “Who are you?” She demanded.

He had the advantage of strength. He grabbed a hold of her arm, tearing free of her grip and throwing her over him. She moved with the momentum, rolling to her feet and drawing daggers in one smooth motion. He regarded her quietly, weapons already loose and in hand.

“I suppose it was too much to hope for an answer.”

He rushed her. He was fast. Lorelli was faster. Not by much but it was enough. She spun left aiming a kick for his stomach. He brought arms in a crossed guard to block but her momentum pushed him back. He took it and rolled, coming to his feet to charge her again before she had a chance to turn to face him. She whirled, blocking his blades, one, two. She took that moment to push her advantage, he almost matched her for speed but he was losing ground.

“Quick, ay? Eh like thit inna bird.”

“Oh, aren’t you adorable?” She snarled. “Its not too late to give up. I just want information.”

He shook his head. Steel glinted in the periphery of her vision as he aimed a strike at her neck. She ducked but his other hand was already in motion. Their almost even speed got the better of her then. She blocked his second dagger but not before it bit through fabric and deep into the flesh of her side. It didn’t’ feel as if anything vital had been punctured but the loss of blood would eventually be problematic.

Lore winced and scowled, “Great. Now you’re actually trying. I was so hoping this wouldn’t’ be easy.”

“Eh’m never easy, love.” He yanked his daggers back and thrust what would have been a killing blow if it landed at her chest. Loreli threw herself backward and came to her feet. He was right behind her. Lorelli dodged, stepped in behind him. He was already moving away from her but she struck out at him, scoring her dagger across his back. Leather parted under the blade barely grazing the skin underneath. He rounded on her then, putting his extra strength behind his attacks. Lore gave ground and that was all it took for him to start driving her back. She could feel the force of his blows in her wrists, in her arms, in the wound he’d given her. Her vest was soaked with blood, she was vaguely aware of the breeze blowing across the skin.

Her back hit a wall. Okay… this was definitely not part of the plan. She glanced around for an out. When one didn’t readily present itself she decided to make one. Pushing off from the wall she launched herself at him, twisting and slamming her shoulder into his face. There was a slick sounding crack and pain in her arm, blossoming out to ring through her shoulders. He’d buried his dagger blade in her upper arm down to the bone. They stumbled together a couple of steps, Lore recovered first, grabbing his arm she spun him around, his dagger tore free leaving pain in its wake that almost staggered her. She channeled it into landing a blow and sheathed her own blade in his shoulder. He pulled back, yanking free of her dagger and attacked immediately. She planted a sound kick in his stomach as she dropped to the ground. He rolled behind her and was back on his feet in an instant already on the offensive. For a moment she slipped inside his guard and grazed his face under his eye. He responded with a flurry of blows, together they danced back and forth across the cobblestones meeting slice for slice both refusing to give ground. Lorelli could feel her energy waning though. They’d both lost a lot of blood but she’d suffered worst of their wounds.

Lorelli gathered what strength she could and threw everything she had at him. He kept just ahead of her attacks but was pushed him back until he met the wall. She feinted an attack to his abdomen, slamming his head back into the wall with her free hand when he moved to block. A wet thwack resounded through the small space.

“You should count yourself lucky I just need information.” Her teeth grit, whether in anger or pain she couldn’t even say herself. “You should all pay dearly for what you did to my friends.”

“Keep gabbin’ bitch.” His voice was suppressing about as much pain as she felt. She could see the bruise from her shoulder tinging the parts of his face visible around the mask and hood he wore. He moved to attack, stepping inside her guard but brought himself too close. He missed with his daggers and settled for ramming his elbow into her face instead.

That was about the time she hit the end of the adrenaline. Lore doubled over holding her face as he stepped away. He didn’t wait even a second before he brought his dagger down on the back of her head. She went down hard, hitting the cobblestones with an audible thud. In her swimming vision she was barely able to make out his boots kicking her daggers out of the reach. The sound of metal skittering across stone echoing the sound of hope and life leaving her. This was it. This was how it ended. It could have been worse, she supposed. It could have been one of the Lowborne who took her out. She hoped Zha’ane or any of the the Riders didn’t go on some crazed Lotus Eater killing spree across the city as she was fully aware she’d brought this on herself.

He had leaned down next to her, his hooded and masked face a dark blur. A hand clamped tightly around her neck, air shut off from the rest of her body. She clawed at his grip but she had nothing left to fight with. He dragged her to her knees.

“Eh’m listenin’.” He snarled.

Distantly Lore registered the sound of running boots. This time in a gait she recognized. One chance she thought, you’ll only get one shot to make this work. She reached for his face and yanked his hood and mask off. His face made him appear mid to late twenties, though it was difficult to well with the sallow pallor and craggy planes of his skin. A scar tugged at one corner of his mouth. She did her best to memorize it, shape of he eyes, the nose, angle of the jaw.

He was startled. She produced one of the many knives hidden on her person and slammed the blade down into his thigh. His legs give out and they dropped into a heap.

Lore could see a blurry fair-haired figure running towards them. Can you see his face? Do know who he is? She tried to call. Her voice was weak and raspy. Her assailant has gotten to his feet and was towering over her prone form.

Another voice carried through the night, “Oh yeh fuckin’ WHORESON-”

The entire area lit up, brighter than any daylight. Stars exploded in her vision and she squeezed her eyes shut against the assault on her night vision. She tried to shake her head but everything hurt. A flash bomb, she guessed. Shadows started to form again, a light pressure on her shoulder. A hand?

“Awright, Lore?” Tarquin. She never thought she’d be so glad to hear one of those Northern accents that was so damnably hard to follow even when her head wasn’t spinning.

She tried to get her legs under her only to have the cobblestone rush up to meet her again. There was an awful lot of blood on the ground. It couldn’t /all/ be hers. Could it? Zha’ane was going to be pissed.

“All…” The attempt to speak grated at her throat and she paused, coughing. “…according to… plan.” She was going to feel like shit in the morning.

“The plan ta bugger off an’ get your arse killed?”

“That’d… be the one.” She inhaled, that hurt too, but she managed to grin. It probably looked rather deranged, battered as she was. Her face was already swollen. “You should have seen the other guy… I did.”

It’s too late to turn back now
It’s too loud to hear a sound;
I’m so lost I can’t be found;
It’s too late to turn back now
-Too Late – Dead by Sunrise

Tucked back in the snowy foothills of Icecrown was a small camp. It numbered no more than eight tents in all, doing a fair job of blending into the terrain. They flew their flags in Alliance-blue low which could only be spotted from a few short yards away. The flags did not sport the lion of Stormwind. In fact, today, they weren’t even ‘flying’ so much as hanging limply from their poles in the deathly still air. Normally SI:7 didn’t bother flying colors at all but there was an Alliance regiment elsewhere in the area. While the likelihood of them stumbling upon the small camp was slim to none, Jaylen Sunshade didn’t want to take the chance that either party would shoot first and ask questions later.

It was early morning, Jaylen sat in his tent, drumming his fingertips lightly against the small table. He was a handsome kaldorei, with long, straight hair, dark blue, often worn in a braid. He wore a mix of leathers and furs without any marking of rank or allegiance and he wore them well. He was frowning as Loreli pushed back the tent flap and stepped inside. Jaylen still recalled the first night he’d seen her and how it hadn’t been long before he was talking to Shaw about her joining SI:7. Jaylen had found his way into Loreli’s good graces swiftly enough but their personal relationship had suffered slightly during her marriage. After the divorce, when Loreli went running back to 7 to escape and forget, Jaylen had been ready and waiting to provide comfort.

Jaylen noted that Loreli looked better than she had in recent days, but there were still dark circles under her eyes and it appeared she’d merely raked fingers through her hair rather than any actual attempt at order. It had been two months since Channi—Loreli’s daughter through adoption—had been reported MIA. Loreli had shortly thereafter ended her relationship with Jaylen, stating that it was unfair to him when she had nothing left to give. Nothing he’d said had convinced her she needed him now more than ever and she’d been avoiding him ever since. That was fine, she could fool herself for now, but he’d get her back.

Jaylen’s tent was sparsely appointed, as he preferred to give the semblance of having no more than those he commanded. What it did have in abundance were maps. They were strewn across the table surface but Jaylen ignored them. His irritation was solely for the kaldorei woman in his entryway.

Loreli couldn’t blame him. It had been at least a couple of hours since she’d gotten word of his summons. She knew she should care. She knew she should apologize. She should make an effort to conduct herself as a proper SI:7 agent. Without Channi, none of it mattered.

“You wanted to see me, Sir?” She asked.

“Ages ago, Tymara. I know the events of the last two months have been hard on you. However, that doesn’t mean you may use it as a crutch, or bank on certain aspects of our relationship, former or otherwise.”

Loreli began to form an outraged protest but the words died unspoken. She made no excuses, she had no desire to justify her actions. At this point in her life, stuck in this snowy piece of hell, she cared less and less if she lived or died.

Jaylen’s expression softened slightly, but his words carried no less weight, “If you continue to be a hindrance to this unit, I’m fully prepared to ship you back to Stormwind. Forcefully if needed.”

Stormwind was the very last place she wanted to go. She could always allow herself to be discharged and hop a ship to Darnassus, but what would she do there? Dodge Lyas forever? At least out here, there was a chance her death could serve some purpose. If Lyas killed her, no one would know and no one would care. Jaylen had her full attention now. “That wont be necessary, Sir.”

Jaylen heaved a sigh, knowing that was the best he was going to get out of the rogue. “I’ve got an assignment for you.” He stood up and spun one of the maps around to face her, “There’s a company moving supplies from a staging camp here, up to this northern quadrant here.” He indicated the locations on the map of Icecrown.

Loreli raised an eyebrow, “So far from the Citadel?”

Jaylen shrugged, “Way I hear it, the leadership is getting ready for something big. Some sort of friendship forging, bond building trial by combat, or some such nonsense.” He looked at her pointedly, “They’ve requested one of our scouts to accompany them. I’d like to give them our best, but I’m not sure she’s with us anymore.”

The words stung. They shouldn’t have, but they did. She stepped forward, noting the points he’d marked. She was quiet a moment, eyeing the terrain, pondering the safest yet most expedient route. There was an area of low-lying foothills towards the end of the trek, an area she wasn’t sure of. She’d recommend to the Captain in charge they skirt around them as best they could.

“You’ll meet them here at dawn.” Jaylen indicated another spot on the map about two miles from the supply caravan’s noted origin. She looked askance at him and he replied, “There’s a contingent of Ebon Blade stationed here. The caravan shouldn’t meet trouble before they rendezvous with you.”

Loreli made a crisp salute, almost too much so, “Sir.” She turned to leave, not waiting for a dismissal.

“Lore…” Jaylen said. It was soft, barely above a whisper but she heard.

She paused, glancing over her shoulder at him, “Hm?”

“Be careful.”

She nodded and dropped the tent flap behind her.

***

Loreli blew into her hands and rubbed them together vigorously. The morning had broken colder than normal with a bite to the air. The rogue kept a vigilant eye on the road, expecting the caravan at any moment. It was difficult to tell time in Icecrown. The scourge seemed to have corrupted everything, including the sky. It constantly felt like twilight here. Loreli didn’t mind the darkness; it was just always so bloody cold.

Figures started to emerge out of the distance. Loreli drew back into the snow covered rock formation. As they came closer, she identified the blue standards and the lion tabard. She jogged out to meet them, relishing the feeling of getting her limbs moving again. As the night elf approached, a draenei stepped forward, bearing shield and mace in challenge. It was a woman with dark skin and dark hair in ringlets around her shoulders. A large grey bear growled from the challenger’s right. Bandits in Icecrown were rare, but there was also the Scarlet Crusade and the Cult of the Damned to worry about. Dressed as she was, in nondescript leathers and furs, face covered, Loreli could have been either.

The rogue was staring at the Draenei. Her raiment suggested shaman and so far she appeared to be quite well versed in the use of both mace and shield. As Loreli drew closer it became apparent that the large bear was a druid and she knew them both. “Arliece? Gin?”

The Draenei blinked and her face split into a grin, “Loreli! I heard you and Channi were in Dragonblight with SI:7. You’re our scout escort?” She stepped forward to grasp the rogue’s hand but was blocked when a large shape stepped between the two women. The bear had shifted back to his elvish form and grabbed Loreli in an almost bone-crushing hug. Loreli chuckled and stumbled slightly as he let go.

“Hey Gin, how’re you? Keeping her out of trouble?” Loreli asked, as she rolled her shoulders. Ginawa nodded and made a few quick hand gestures at Loreli. The rogue laughed and nodded. “Well, we can’t all be as charming as you, Gin.”

A much younger, higher pitched voice carried from somewhere within the crown. A few soldiers stepped aside. A young mage with her pale red hair bound in a pony-tail and a smattering of freckles on her face, emerged.

“Lore?! I heard Lore’s name. Lore can’t be here, she…” The mage girl stopped when she spotted the night elf woman, “Loreli!” She squealed, throwing herself at the rogue. Loreli couldn’t help but grin.

“Hey, Menley. They’re being good to you?” Loreli asked, indicating Arliece and Ginawa.

Menley giggled then nodded, “They do a good job of looking out for me.”

“Not that she needs it.” The Draenei grinned.

Menley continued, unperturbed, “It’s so great to see you! How are you? Those goons at SI:7 treating you okay? You look thin! Are you eating?”

Loreli and Arliece shook their heads, laughing. Ginawa smiled and watched the woman as they talked.

“I’ve missed you!” Menley said.

Loreli ruffled Menley’s hair, “Me too, kiddo.”

Menley pursed her lips and glanced past Loreli as if expecting something to come out of the snow behind her. “Channi back at the SI:7 camp?”

The rogue’s expression was suddenly somber. She was aware of three pairs of eyes focusing on her, “We… lost Channi… two months ago.” She mumbled.

Menley knit her brows together. She frowned and chewed on her lower lip, “Oh…”

Ginawa placed a comforting hand on Loreli’s shoulder as Arliece gave the rogue a sympathetic look, “Oh Lore… I’m so sorry.” She said.

“What in the nether is going on here?! Why are we stopped?” a third voice, this one male, demanded from the back of the caravan.

Loreli felt something twist in her stomach. That voice was all too familiar; especially raised in annoyance as it was. There was another disturbance amongst the soldiers. The clank of plate armor growing louder as the wearer approached.

“Oh no…” Loreli breathed, suddenly feeling nauseous. She swore harshly under her breath, causing Menley to blink in surprise.

A human male shoved his way to the front. He didn’t appear to be old, but his hair was graying at the temples. A bandage was wrapped around his head, covering one eye. The scarring peeking from under the gauze suggested, however, that it was a new injury.

“It’s the SI:7 escort, Sir.” Arliece said.

The man stood at the front of the line of soldiers, grumbling about the shady dealings of SI:7 and choice words about particular members. Loreli was fairly certain she caught her name amongst the tirade. He spotted the night elf rogue and swore.

“Nice to see you too, Laeth.” Loreli said. She managed to hold back the vast majority of sarcasm, even going so far as to offer a smile.

“Captain Weslock, to you.” He scowled, crossing his arms, “We don’t need a scout. Especially not an SI:7 spy. Go back to your whoremaster.”

“Gladly.” Loreli said, and meaning it. “Except, I have orders you can’t override.” She resisted the urge to slap him; refused to let him get to her.

“And so do we, Sir.” Arliece interjected, ignoring the scowl turned on her by the Captain.

Laeth turned his attention back to Loreli, the stare he gave her expressing a greater amount of displeasure than any words could manage. Loreli returned the look, cool and mostly untroubled.

Menley took an involuntary step back, as if afraid to be caught in the crossfire. “You two know each other?” she hazarded.

Loreli folded her arms across her chest. “Oh, we know each other, alright; unless Laeth wants to deny it.” Without another word, or even sparing another look for Laeth, she turned. “We’re heading out. Move!” She called. The soldiers in the front began to mobilize the others. Laeth’s scowl deepened, he raised his hand, halting them.

“Master Sergeant Tymara,” the Captain said with particular emphasis on her rank, “I’m in command. I give the orders.” He eyed her.

“Then give the order to move. I’m going.”

The rogue and the Captain glared at each other, neither willing to back down. Puzzle pieces started to fall into place in Arliece’s mind.

“Oh!” She exclaimed quietly, “Oh…”

Ginawa looked at Arliece, miming something. Arliece nodded with a frown. Menely was looking between them in confusion. “What?” The mage girl asked.

Arliece shook her head, putting a finger to her lips. The Draenei then stepped up behind the Captain and placed a cautious hand on his pauldron. “Sir, do we need to get moving or we’ll fall behind schedule.”

Laeth shook her off and turned to the soldiers, “Move out!”

Arliece gave the rogue another look of sympathy. Loreli had been getting a lot of those lately; she was getting rather tired of it.

***

Menley and Arliece whispered back and forth quietly while Ginawa would make hand gestures. Though Menley was getting better at reading them, occasionally she had to look to Arliece for a translations. Loreli had borrowed one of the extra horses and currently rode out ahead of the group. Laeth’s scowl followed her and never left his face. Every so often the rogue would gallop off, disappearing into the distance, only to return a short time later. She’d exchange as few words with Laeth as possible before trotting out ahead of the group again.

“What’s the deal?” Menley whispered, stepping closer to Arliece, “They really seem to despise each other. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone rattle Lore so easily.”

Arliece shook her head sadly, “I’m pretty certain they used to be married.” Ginawa mimed putting a ringer on his finger. Arliece nodded at him and continued, “I don’t know what happened, but I know it broke Loreli up pretty badly.”

Menley frowned and shot a glare at Laeth, “That’s awful.”

Arliece patted her young friend on the shoulder, “Now now. We don’t know the whole story. I find in these things one side is rarely the only to blame.”

Ginawa tilted his head at Arliece, glanced at Laeth, then glanced back. His expression was skeptical.

Menely jutted out her lower lip, she knew Arliece was right, “But… he’s such an asshole. I bet he cheated on her!” Her voice rose shrilly at the end. Laeth glance back at her in askance. The young mage girl turned bright right and bowed her head in apology.

Arliece blinked looking perplexed, “Who would turn Lore away from their bed?”

Menley eyed the shaman then stifled a giggle, “You’d take Lore to bed?” Ginawa grinned waggling his eyebrows at Arliece.

Arliece stopped, staring at Menley. One of the soldiers in formation behind them almost ran into her. Arliece mumbled apologies as Ginawa drew her out of the way. They started moving again as Menely burst into a fit of giggles.

“Well, not exactly. But I can appreciate why someone would want to!” Arliece was blushing slightly causing Menely to giggle harder.

“Maenestries!” Laeth’s voice carried back to them. Arliece stood up straight, saluting. Menley immediately sobered up and stood at attention.

“Lest you forget, this is hostile territory. I’ll thank you two to keep it down instead of bringing the scourge on us from all sides!” The Captain snapped.

“Then why are you shouting, ass?” The voice was quiet, meant only for Arliece, Menley and Ginawa to hear. Apparently Loreli had circled around and come up through the back ranks. Pulling the borrowed horse up alongside Arliece, she spared a grin for her friends.

“We should stop for the night.” The rogue said, more to herself than anyone else. She turned a look of distaste on Laeth and spurred the horse to a trot, pulling up along the Captain.

“It’s getting late. We should considering making camp.” Loreli told him.

“There’s a basin up ahead. We should camp there.” He replied, not looking at her.

Loreli blinked. She’d just returned from scouting that basin. There was only one path negotiable for their band in from the south and only one viable way out in the north. The west side sported high rocky cliffs. The east side was made up of only slightly more forgiving hillsides. The area above them was treacherous, riddled with deep snow drifts likely to snap a horse’s ankle or break a wagon axle. They could go through the basin, but she’d prefer to do it in daylight. If they had to keep going tonight, the best route would be to the west side. There were points where the trail thinned considerably and it was a quite drop into the valley ringing Icecrown’s center. It’d be much slower going but if they were careful it was easier to avoid the dangers.

“We’ll be sitting ducks.” She insisted, trying to remain calm.

“We’ll have the tactical advantage of being able to bottleneck anyone coming in.” He said, through gritted teeth.

Loreli folded her arms, “What about an aerial attack?”

“The basin is low enough. Visibility is so bad here at night and we’ll have enough ground cover. We shouldn’t be spotted from above.” He finally turned his irritated scowl on her.

“Are you daft?” She snapped, “We should camp at the head of the trail leading down. This group can mobilize fast enough, we can make a run for it if we get overwhelmed then use the bottleneck to our advantage. I think it’s idiotic to cripple us by blinding us on all sides.”

“I thought that’s what we were stuck with you for? Or are you incapable of even that much? I didn’t think they’d teach petty sneak-thieves and second-rate assassins proper tactics. I guess I was right.” Laeth sneered. He tugged on the reins and his horse came to a halt. He watched her, waiting for a reply.

Loreli’s expression fell and her shoulders slumped, “So we’re back to that again, are we?” She asked quietly, “Down talking me?” She shook her head, “You want to call me a whore next? You know how I love that one. Oh, wait. You pretty much already did.”

“Perhaps if you’d conduct yourself in a more respectable fashion the truth wouldn’t sting so badly.”

Loreli felt heat rise to her cheeks, her hands itched to strike out more than ever. “Funny, you didn’t seem to have an issue with my conduct when you MARRIED ME!” She had let him do exactly what she swore she wouldn’t. She was riled up now, hurt and angry, dredging through old memories she’d finally forgotten.

The rest of the company was watching them now. Her voice had carried to them but she paid no heed. Let them hear as the dirty laundry was aired out. Loreli knew she wasn’t entirely innocent in the collapse of her marriage to Leath. She did however know she was not wholly to blame.

“A mistake I think I rectified rather efficiently.” He hissed, leaning towards her. She caught his wary glance at the watching soldiers.

“A mistake?!” She demanded, “What’s the matter? Afraid your loyal followers will find out what an uncaring jerk you are? Well, I’ve got news for you! THEY ALREADY KNOW!”

“DON’T RAISE YOUR VOICE AT ME, WOMAN!”

“WHAT?! NOT USED TO PEOPLE FIGHTING BACK, ARE YOU?!”

Menely started as Arliece stepped forward.

“Where are you going?!” The young mage asked.

“To put a stop to this before they kill each other.”

Ginawa looked at Menley. He linked his fingers together before his chest and made a show of violently ripping his hands away from each other. He them hit his knuckles together, showing Menley the connection would no longer hold.

Menely nodded sadly, “You’re right, Gin. Some things once broken can never be repaired.”

***

Arliece argued with Laeth as fervently as she dared. The Captain refused to listen, intent instead, on flinging more insults at Loreli.

Soon camp was set up at the bottom of the basin, near the trail leading out on its northern edge. That left a whole lot of open space to the south. Loreli made mention to Laeth that she was not comfortable with their positioning. He made no effort to hide how annoyed he was as he assigned a patrol to the area. He then ordered Loreli not to worry about it.

“Now, go do something useful.” He told her.

***

Loreli finished her perimeter sweep but did not return to Laeth’s tent to make her report. She was too worried she’d end up strangling him before she was done. Instead, she climbed to the top of one of the higher hills ringing the small basin they were camped in. There she sat staring out into the snowy, barren wasteland of Icecrown wondering if perhaps she should have to turned around and told Jaylen she was refusing the assignment the moment she saw Laeth. She felt as if her heart were breaking all over again and she didn’t even have Channi’s bright, reassuring smile to keep her going.

He’s right, you know? You’re worthless; nothing more than a petty thief, a poor excuse for an assassin and a cheap whore. Lyas would have gutted you by now if you’d stayed. The only thing you do well is lie. Maybe if you’d given a shit about someone beside yourself, Channi’d be alive. That’s right, you know she’s dead, why bother trying to convince yourself otherwise? That should have been you. You should have been there with her. Why weren’t you there?

Movement in the dim light off to her left caught her attention breaking her from the vicious mental circle she’d been running. The sounds of shuffling in the snowy darkness made her freeze, ears straining to hear. The smell of death and decay assailed her nose and she bit back a curse. Quickly she got to her feet drawing her daggers but she was too slow, a blade leveled itself at her and she stared up into the cold blue eyes of a death knight, well aware that this was no freed servant of the Ebon Blade. The chill emanating from the dark plated figure before her cut straight to the bone, scourged ghouls assembled behind him en-masse.

There was nowhere to run. She was surrounded by scourge on all sides with no clue how many she actually faced. Stepping back, she’d be met with an almost sheer rock face, dangerous to traverse even in daylight. If she were lucky, maybe they didn’t know the camp was there. All the fires were out and the bottom of the basin was black as pitch. She could attempt to cut a swath through the scourge lining the cliff and lead them away from the caravan resting below. It was assuredly suicide but her death was a small price in exchange for her friends and the soldiers below. This was her fault anyway.

Without a word or a glance spared for the death knight she dropped to the ground, rolling precariously close to the ledge. One leg came up knocking the rune-blade away, though the death knight maintained a grip on his weapon. Rising to her feet, she laid into the scourge blocking her way to the left and away from the trail leading downward. The mindless ghouls closed in around her, the death knight cutting a path through them heedless of their waste, trying to get to her as well. She was almost clear of the scourge blockade. Loreli risked a glance backward, the death knight had broken off his pursuit. He gestured and the endless wall of scourge began to scramble over the edges of the cliff, freefalling into the basin below.

Loreli paused, stunned. The full weight of the threat began to come clear. The first round of scourge into the bowl may be immobile but the other going in after that would have a considerable cushion. Any not smashed into a fine bone powder could be raised again at the bottom. She needed to sound the alarm.

“SCOURGE! SCOURGE! TO ARMS!” Loreli called into the darkness, with no clue if anyone heard or not. Her festering barricade was closing in tighter around her. She’d lost all the headway she’d made and still no response signal from the camp below. She flipped a dagger, tucking the blade against her forearm, digging in one of the many pockets on her gear. Her other hand still slashed at the scourge, though the gesture was futile. Pulling the flare from her pocket she popped the end causing it to ignite almost blinding in the darkness. Loreli had barely a moment to fling the beacon into the sky before the ghouls swarmed her over the edge of the cliff.

Loreli barely registered the sensation of falling. She knew even if she didn’t die on impact with the ground, she was as good as dead anyway. She’d be in no condition to fight back. The scourge would kill her and raise her and send her against her companions. Well, she had lantern fluid and she had flint and tinder, she just hoped her hands were in good enough condition to use them if it came to it. THUD!

Loreli heard a sickening crack come from somewhere, stars exploded before her vision and pain lanced up her left arm. It took a good few moments for her to register what had happened. Surely as the scourge were cushioning the fall of their forces, they’d done the same for her. Except, she was pretty sure her arm was broken and thus useless. One good arm with a dagger was not enough to ward off an army of ghouls but she had to move. Pain thudded harshly against her skull but she forced herself to get up and stumble towards the camp. The scourge were mobilizing, slowly, but mobilizing they were.

There were lanterns being lit up ahead, winking to life in the darkness. Either the camp had seen her flare or the first wave of scourge had hit. She prayed to the Light, to Elune, to anyone who would listen that it was the former. Upon entering the camp she was immediately met with a cross-bow bolt shoved menacingly in her face.

“For the love of Elune, don’t shoot!” Loreli raised her good arm, leveling a half glossed gaze at the soldier. “Where’s Captain Weslock?” She asked.

“How do I know you’re not scourged?” The young soldier demanded. Behind him the camp was organized chaos. Soldiers were running back and forth, readying weapons, relaying and carrying out orders. Loreli spotted the back of Menley’s head congregating with the other spell casters, but Arliece wasn’t among them and neither was Ginawa.

“I may be shambling like one, but I assure you, I am not scourged.” Loreli snapped in no mood to have this argument.

“Let her through!” The young soldier immediately retrained his cross-bow elsewhere upon Laeth’s barked order.

“That was a hell of a stunt you pulled up there, Lore.” He scowled, “You have my thanks…”

Loreli blinked in surprise just as a high-pitched scream rang above the clash of weapons. “Menley!” The rogue dashed through the combatants, finally reaching the spot where the arcane group had been gathering. One or more of them had dropped a death knight but he’d managed to run Menley through with his sword.

“She was trying to save me…” Someone nearby said, though Loreli didn’t pay attention to whom.

Loreli looked around frantically. “Medic! Where’s Arliece?!” She demanded.

“Sir!,” one of the other mages—a gnome—acknowledged Laeth as he came up behind Loreli. “The north edge of the camp has been overrun. Maenestries and the druid were with them.”

Loreli looked up, kneeling, she was eye to eye with the gnome, “What about the other healers?” She asked.

There were screams ranging from around the camp now. A few of the tents had caught fire and most of the soldiers were too busy defending their lives to do anything about it. Loreli glanced over her shoulder at Laeth who was staring at her left arm.

“Gods Lore, your…!”

“I’ll be fine!” She insisted, getting to her feet. To the gnome she said, “Stay with her. I’m going over there.”

“Lore! You can’t…” Laeth began to protest but she was already gone. With a curse he turned to one of the soldiers, “Round up as my of the healers as you can find and bring them back here. The rest of you, hold ground! We’ll need for reform if we’re to survive this.” He waited just long enough to receive salutes then went off in search of Loreli.

The northern edge of the camp was ablaze, smoke rising into the dark sky above. It was also completely overrun by scourge. There weren’t any Alliance troops in sight, there weren’t even any corpses, meaning the victims had either been raised by the enemy or the bodies had been disposed of to keep them from doing just that. If Arliece and Ginawa were numbered among those lost already Loreli would never find the pair and she knew the druid wouldn’t have let Arliece out of his sight. If they died, they died together.

Her head was pounding harder and the pain in her arm was lancing through her shoulders. She needed to get back to others so they could regroup.

“LORE! MOVE!” Laeth slammed into her from the right. They went down, lading hard in the blood soaked snow. Loreli cried out as she landed on her broken arm, which turned to surprise as she felt the energy and heard the sizzle of magic. Laeth lay unmoving on the ground next to her. She struggled to turn him in the heavy plate armor, knowing that whoever cast that would be along shortly to finish the job. Laeth’s eyes were glassy as they stared up at her, there was a smoking hole in his breast plate. He’d taken the blast meant for her full-on.

“Sweet light of Elune! You stupid STUPID man! I’m no leader! Who’s going to get us out of this now?!” She demanded, feeling tears of frustration forming. True, she and Laeth didn’t get along in the end, were cruel and bitter towards one another but she had never wished anything like this on him, especially not in her place.

“Lore…” His voice barely carried over the sounds of combat, “I’m… sorry… for how… it ended.”

“Shut up!” She snapped, “Just…” Her voice softened, “Just shut up and die with some dignity, you ass.” But he was already gone. Choking back a sob she pulled his sword from his hand and grabbed a piece of burning debris. Loreli pulled the small bottle of lantern oil and poured it over the body. She dropped the make-shift torch and only hung around long enough to ensure that it lit before she turned and headed back towards the other end of camp.

Menley had died in the short time Loreli had been gone. The soldier tasked with locating the healers reported in a shaking voice that the scourge had had the same idea. He found them, just in time to watch them be slaughtered. He could not confirm if Arliece had been among them and no one could say they’d seen Ginawa either.

Loreli looked around. There were so few of them left; a couple of heavy fighters, a warlock, the gnome mage and herself. She looked between them, feeling helpless. She pulled another flare from her pocket.

“Are you insane?” The warlock asked incredulously, “That’ll bring even more of them down us.”

“In case you hadn’t noticed, we’re dead anyway. This might bring help. I’m willing to risk it.” Loreli looked around at the others who nodded their accession. She swallowed hard, broke the end and nodded to the warlock, “If you would.” She threw it as high as she could. The warlock shot a bolt of energy at it, knocking it higher into the sky and causing it to burn brighter.

“Now, we fight… and pray.” Loreli said.

They lasted longer than she expected. The melee fighters in plate went down first, as they’d formed up trying to protect Loreli and the spell casters. The gnome fell next. Loreli bit her lip, fumbling in her pockets for the rest of the lantern oil. She glanced briefly at the warlock, even as exhausted and haggard as the human woman appeared, Loreli could tell she was beautiful.

“What’s your name?” Loreli asked.

“Verlyas. Yours?”

“Loreli. It was a pleasure fighting along side you, Verlyas. I’m sorry I failed.”

The woman shook her head, giving Loreli a sympathetic look, “We never stood a chance.”

The scourge closed in around them, Loreli heard Verlyas’ body hit the snow. She was still fumbling for the bottle of lantern oil when something traced a line like fire across her back. She was barely aware of the wet heat spreading out from the contact point, her voice crying out as she fell. The ground was cold, so cold. It ripped all the warmth from her body. She stared up into the smoke filled sky. A face swam in her vision, a girl in her late teens, black hair pulled back into a pony-tail. Her eyes were the blue glow of the death knight, but that was wrong.

They should be green, was her last thought.

Once her vision focused she was sick for an entirely different reason. Jaylen’s face blurred above her. His expression self-satisfied and smug as he stroked her cheek. She noticed the bandage wrapped around his midsection through the light shirt he wore; found herself wishing she’d stabbed him harder. It took a few moments of willing her muscles to respond, but she was finally able to turn her head and bury it in the pillow. Jaylen grabbed a fistful of her hair and forced her to look at him.

“That’s not a very warm welcome.” he chided.

Loreli managed to smile sweetly, “Then untie me and we’ll try again.”

Jaylen shook his head, “No, no, I don’t think so. I’m rather fond of you like this.”

“Sick fuck.” Loreli muttered under her breath. She shivered again, “Why… is it so cold…?”

“The fever will pass. The lethargy will not.”

“The poison…” She licked her lips, “You… you can’t keep dosing me, you’ll kill me… that seems… counterproductive.”

Jaylen shook his head, “You forget who you’re talking to.”

Loreli sighed inwardly. Poisons were one of Jaylen’s more advanced talents. This worried her greatly. “What’s in it to make it act so quickly?” She asked.

Jaylen shook his head again, “Oh no. I’m not giving up that little piece of information.”

“It’s not like I can get a hold of anything to counter-act it. I’m just curious.” She knew she wasn’t fooling him. She didn’t care, talking kept him distracted from other ventures.

“We’re not playing anymore, Lore. You lost.” He said. “Might be a good time to accept defeat and come back to SI:7. You’re mine either way.” he shrugged. “One will just be… more comfortable for you.”

To almost anyone else he would have sounded like he was gloating but Loreli caught the nervous edge in his voice. He sounded like he wasn’t entirely sure of the situation. She started cross referencing her conversation with Aiya.

Shaw wouldn’t sanction her abduction, not this late in the game. There was nothing to be gained from it. It wasn’t like they could ransom her to anyone of interest. Jaylen knew that Loreli had found out about his laundering money from Seven. He hadn’t seemed terribly surprised when Loreli had brought it up. He must have gotten the information out of Miriam. Loreli was just thankful she hadn’t passed the information to Jeb. Jaylen had killed Miriam. If he just wanted to keep Loreli quiet he could have done the same to her. He wanted to keep her alive and she didn’t have to guess why. So he was apprehensive solely because she was alive and Shaw didn’t know? That wasn’t like Jaylen.

Loreli eyed him, “Shaw doesn’t know I’m alive, does he?” she watched his expression change, “You’re defying his order to kill me.” She managed a week laugh. “I think I’d be flattered, if I weren’t, ya know, a hostage!”

“Shut up.” He said. Yet, his attention wasn’t on her, she’d gotten him thinking and there was something else. Jaylen was… afraid? She couldn’t tell if he was angry or confused about his actions. She knew it wouldn’t last. “Look, Jaylen, he won’t buy it forever. He’ll see right through you. Leave SI:7, I’ll… I’ll stay with you… willingly.”

She didn’t expect to win his trust that easily, but on the slim chance he was distracted just enough she’d try.

Did anyone know she was alive? She was sure Zha’ane at the very least would continue looking, even if all evidence suggested she was dead. Zha’ane may not even know she was missing, yet. He and Channi could still be in Darnassus and for who knows how long. Aely. Aely wouldn’t give up and if Zha’ane didn’t return before too long she’d make sure to get word to him. She didn’t even know where she was. How was anyone else supposed to find her? Jaylen wouldn’t leave an easily followed trail.

“Shut up!” He barked.

“You can’t fool him!”

“Shut UP, Lore!”

“He may already know…”

“SHUT UP, LORE!”

“HE’LL DEMAND PROOF!” She snapped.

“I’LL GIVE IT TO HIM!” Jaylen had a knife in his hand, holding it to her ear. Loreli went deathly still; this had not been part of the plan.

“You wouldn’t do that…” she breathed.

“Oh, wouldn’t I?” He asked. His voice dropped to match her volume. He moved the knife away from her ear, finding the older wound he’d left on her other thigh. He slid the blade along it, reopening the gash. Loreli winced, biting down on her lower lip to stifle a cry of pain. She tasted blood.

“He’ll know…” She gasped, “Whatever ‘proof’ you give him, he’ll know…”

He snarled at her, “Enough talking.” He covered her mouth with his hand, “There’s no need for you to talk.” He said, trailing hungry kisses along her cheek to her neck.

She closed her eyes and willed the darkness to return.

***

Jaylen startled her awake with a slap to the face. Loreli blinked in confusion and pain, trying to fight off the disorientation.

“Who’s Zha’ane?” Jaylen demanded.

Loreli blinked a few more times before her expression turned incredulous. “What are you raving about?”

“Zha’ane. Who is he?”

Loreli fought back the small shimmer of hope. She had no idea how long it’d been. Could Zha’ane really be close?

“Leave me alone.” She muttered, trying to turn away from him.

Jaylen leaned over her, speaking close to her ear, stroking her hair, “That’s alright, honey. You and I both know I’ll find him. I’ll be sure to give him your regards before I kill him.”

What had happened? She couldn’t recall. Something had gone wrong. She’d messed something up, but what? Who had she pissed off this time? Would Lyas bail her out? A nagging in the back of her mind told her that was wrong. She was confused about time, remembering things long in the past.

Then what? A flash of an image; a note, a mouse. Still wrong. Thoughts were all jumbled, vying for dominance. Which were right? Why couldn’t she open her eyes? If she could just see!

Focus!

The mouse. Why was she important? She? Another snippet of memory. A woman, slightly mousey, though potentially pretty.

It all hit her at once, threatened to make her violently ill with the force of it. Miriam. Loreli always remembered their names. Miriam was dead and Loreli knew it was her fault. She knew what happened when she played with people, toying with their emotions and desires. She’d been doing it long enough, escaping the aftermath long enough. She just hoped Jeb was okay. Had he managed to deliver her message? Would it matter?

Never mind. She thought. I don’t want to wake up. I don’t deserve to wake up. I know what I’ll find and I don’t want it. She had one last fleeting thought of Zha’ane. Then she allowed her consciousness to wander past the guilt, past the pain, back into nothingness.

***

Pain. Pain and the sensation of weightlesness, vertigo. Or was the floor actually moving? Wooden planks beneath her? Sea air… definitely a salt tang. Ocean. A boat? Sailing. Where to? Noises. Crew shouting back and forth across the deck. Seagull calls. Close enough to shore for birds. Leaving port? Heading into? No way to know. Voices.

“Jay! You need to rest…”

“Calm down, Aiya. I’m fine. We’ll be departing shortly, make sure she’s ready to travel.”

Departing? Heading into port then? Loreli heard heavy footfalls heading away from her, ascending stairs. Heading above deck then. Lighter steps coming toward her. A woman? Someone kneeled next to her. Loreli kept her eyes closed.

“Stupidest thing he’s ever done.” A female voice muttered, speaking in Darnassian. “You make him stupid and he won’t listen to reason. He’s going to get us all thrown in the stocks, or hanged. Should have just slit your throat…”

Fabric rustled, Loreli chanced cracking an eye. It was a night elf who kneeled before her. Loreli judged the other woman to be smaller than herself, her robes suggested a priestess. She was looking over her shoulder at steps leading above deck.

“I could do it now…” the kal’dorei woman said to herself.

“I wouldn’t recommend it…” Loreli’s voice weak from disuse. How long had she been out?

The woman Jaylen had addressed as Aiya jumpped back, eyeing the rogue. “You’re awake. I should…” Aiya glanced over her shoulder.

“Killing me would only piss him off after the trouble he went through to capture me. You’re dead then, anyway. Let me go, I’ll swim to shore.”

“Keep your silver tongue in your pretty head.” Aiya snapped. “You’d never make the swim. That wound was pretty bad. I could say you attacked me…” she mused.

“You work for Jay, so I know you’re not stupid.” Loreli told her.

“Shut up.” Aiya insisted.

“Alright. Shutting up. Just remember, if you let me go, less chance you end up in the stocks. He’d never have to know you freed me.” Loreli closed her eyes, leaning back against the wooden planks making up the wall.

Loreli heard Aiya’s footfalls as she headed above deck. Shortly, two sets of footsteps returned.

“Lore?” That was Jaylen’s voice.

Loreli knew pretending to be asleep wouldn’t work. She tried anyway. When she didn’t respond, Jaylen grasped her throat, squeezing. Loreli’s eyes flew open.

“Thats better.” he said, releasing her

Loreli loosed a string of sputtering, swearing filled insults at him. Jaylen nodded indulgently as he pulled a small blade from his belt. She fell silent as he coated the blade with powder. He moved toward her and Loreli tried to scramble away. There was nowhere to go and she was still sluggish.

Jaylen pinned her legs and drew the blade across the barely healed scar on her thigh. Loreli responded with another round of vehemenent, acidic swearing.

It wasn’t long before her thoughts started to drift. She was able to call him one last name before everything went black.

Miriam crumpled to the floor in a lifeless heap. Jaylen had been executing people like this for years; Loreli entertained no notions of saving Miriam. She needed to focus on her own survival. Judging from the way Jaylen was looking at her, she needed to do it soon.

Loreli cut loose her tangled dagger, heedless of fabric or flesh in the way. She saw the opening and rushed him. He tossed the knife he’d used to kill Miriam aside. Drawing sword and dagger, he was quick enough to deflect her slash. He circled her, making a show of watching her move. He could tell she was worn or playing at it well. Even if she was, he knew her too well to relax around those blades. He needed to chip away at her more, turn the game to his advantage. He watched her struggle to reign in her temper so she could focus. This too, he could use against her, if he did it just right.

Loreli narrowed her eyes at him. She didn’t like watching his mind work. She knew physically they could go round and round for hours and never gain any ground on either side. The stakes of the game were higher now as both sides knew the other’s hand. The trick would be the order in which the cards were played. Much of that would be dictated by who made the first move.

Silently and with no change of expression, Jaylen closed the distance. Loreli held her defensive position, turning his blows, watching for an opening around the extra range his longer weapon afforded. Lack of sleep from the last couple of weeks was finally catching up to her. She knew Jaylen saw it. That was fine, she could play that up.

Loreli pressed back, her lower center of gravity bringing her in at an angle slightly underneath his. Jaylen wasn’t fooled, deflecting easily, pressing back in a flurry of blows. He locked her daggers, stepping in close.

“You’re tired.” He stated.

“You’re playing.” She snarled.

He shrugged, “I’ve always enjoyed watching you fight. Admired the way you…” he paused, glancing down the plunging neckline of her dress, “…move.”

Loreli didn’t have to follow his eyes to know where he was looking, “I think you’re watching the wrong curves!” She snapped. With that, she twisted to her left and drove her knee to the inside of his. It buckled under the blow as his body was drawn towards the floor. She twisted back the other way and brought her elbow straight up behind her making solid contact with his chin. Playing with her or not, he was seeing stars. Steel rang as blades slid free and Loreli immediately went for his throat.

Sensing the release of the weapons, Jaylen was already pulling back in a defensive maneuver. He managed to deflect her attack and throw his weight into the backwards fall. It was only enough to keep her dagger from splitting his throat. Instead it grazed the skin and blood welled from the cut. He hit a table placed in the center of the room, harder than he expected and almost reacted too slowly when Loreli refused to give away her upper-hand and moved to attack him while he was prone. He let her get just close enough before bringing his leg up and landing a kick to her stomach that knocked the breath from her.

Loreli staggered back, drawing in a long ragged breath. Jaylen was getting to his feet. Wiping away the blood at his neck, he looked at his hand and then returned his gaze to her. Loreli could not recall ever having seen Jaylen truly angry, irritated perhaps, but not angry. He went into battle with a deadly, efficient calm she had always envied. What she saw now made her pause, if only a moment and wonder just how out-matched she really was. Yet, could she turn this to her advantage?

“What’s going to happen when Shaw finds out about your little money making scheme?” Loreli asked, setting her stance to take another advance.

“Seeing as he’s not going to find out, I’m not terribly worried about it.” He growled.

Loreli made a quick indicative nod in his direction, “Shame about your shirt. Blood stains and white never did go well together. Guess we’ll just have to dye the whole thing red to match.”

“That sounds an awful lot like a threat. Do you hate me that much?”

Loreli barked a laugh, “Oh, you have no idea.” She went on the attack.

Back and forth they went, trading blows, trading wounds. Jaylen took to using whatever he could get his hands on to slow her down. She spun away and he grabbed the end of her skirt, dragging her back to him. He got a slash in on her arm before she cut the excess fabric away and put distance between them again. He gave chase and took two wounds to before he was able to gain the upper-hand again.

She was getting in too many shots, holding the offensive too long before he was able to take control of the situation back. He was going to tire before she did. He needed to do something, let her get close. He saw his opportunity as she advanced and took it.

Jaylen watched her dagger arc towards him, steeled himself and purposely feinted a hair too late. He didn’t have to fake the colorful swearing that erupted as the blade buried in his side. It was an extremely risky move but he was out of tricks. He dropped to the floor and struggled to focus as she stalked towards him. He’d have to do this fast. Loreli was kneeling at his side now, ready to slit his throat, much the same way he’d done Miriam.

“Wait!” He gasped, hiding a smile as Loreli’s hand stilled.

“Why?” She snarled the question.

“I… just want you to know… before you kill me.” ,Just wait a few seconds more, honey. “That… I loved you.”

Fury contorted her face, outrage at his audacity. “Nice try, asshole.” But she’d hesitated too long. He grabbed her wrist in a grip so tight, she could feel the bones grinding together. His other hand planted a blade in her side, the same spot she’d wounded him, adding irony to the injury. She tried to finish him off, but his grip on her wrist wouldn’t slacken.

Suddenly Loreli felt dizzy, tired, the edges of her vision began to turn dark. She realized too late, his blade had been poisoned and she had no antidote. The poison took only seconds to claim her consciousness and she slumped forward.

Jaylen spared a moment to stroke her hair, “I always warned you to quit being such a sucker, sweetheart.”

Loreli froze, her heart skipping a few beats. Slowly she turned, placing herself between Jaylen and Jeb. Through the darkness she could barely make out Jaylen’s form. However, she could just see Miriam. Jaylen appeared to have one hand gripping her hair, pulling her head back. The other held a knife to her throat.

“Go!” Loreli hissed at Jeb.

“But… he won’ be alone!” The young man insisted, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Probably not but you can make it, my life depends on it. Go!”

She didn’t hear Jeb slip out, but she knew he was gone. She prayed to Elune to spare her any more blood guilt tonight. It was dark enough on the edges of the room, maybe Jaylenn hadn’t noticed Jeb leave. Loreli tightened her grip on her dagger and went for her second back-up, strapped to her thigh, under her skirt. It caught on something and wouldn’t come loose.

“Where’s the other traitor?” Jaylen asked. When she didn’t answer, his tone grew more insistent, “Lore!”

Loreli nodded back towards the door, “Gone.” was all she said.

Jaylen shrugged, “He won’t get far. I have to admit, I’m impressed. I’ve apparently underestimated your charms. To turn these two, so easily, one so loyal to King and country, the other loyal to Seven. You truly are amazing. Tell me, did you sleep with them both?”

Loreli snarled and clenched her fist at his implication.

“If you want to be a whore, I’ll gladly accommodate you. Love the dress, by the way.” He said.

Loreli found herself wishing she’d taken the time to change before finding Jeb. The dress she’d worn at the Mirror was very revealing with a lot of fabric. Not ideal for a fight and that appeared to be what this was coming to. Her first concern at the time had been verifying Jeb’s safety and she hadn’t even considered her attire.

“You remember how we deal with traitors, don’t you, Lore?” Jaylen asked.

Miriam’s eye rolled toward her, Loreli could see the low light reflecting off the whites. She could imagine the pleading look she must be getting.

“Jaylen, don’t…’

“Don’t what, Lore? What don’t you want me to do?” He asked.

“Don’t kill her.”

Jaylen tilted his head in mock-confusion, “Why not? She’s a traitor, after all. That’s the problem with traitors. You can’t trust them. But you’d know all about that, wouldn’t you, Lore?” Together, Jaylen and Miriam took a step forward, “But she didn’t know, did she? You lied to her from the beginning. Impersonating an SI:7 agent! Mocking all that she held dear! Didn’t you?”

Loreli furrowed her brow, what was Jaylen up to? Did he think Jeb was still around? Was he trying to turn another possible ally to his side?

“Answer me, Lore. Or she dies!”

“You play the game as well as I do, Jaylen. Maybe better.”

Jaylen laughed and pulled the knife from Miriam’s throat. In an instant Miriam had snatched the knife from his hand and slammed into Loreli, knocking the rogue over. Miriam stood over her, knife pointed at her throat. Her eyes blazed fury.

“You! You…! You lied to me!”

Loreli blinked and look back and forth between Miriam — brandishing the weapon at her — and Jaylen who was still laughing. “I…” she began, as her mind put the pieces together. Jaylen had played the game better than she had. He’d turned Miriam.

“She’s quite the actress, isn’t she? I dare say she could be almost as good as you.” Jaylen chuckled.

Miriam was still trying to articulate her anger, “You tricked me! You used me! I would have never… ever… Tell me why I shouldn’t kill you?!”

Loreli softened her voice. She could easily disarm Miriam at any moment, the way she was holding that knife. However, that would not help Loreli’s cause. “You’re not a killer, Miriam. You don’t want this on your conscience.”

“Like you?!” Miriam spat, “He told me all about you! All the innocent lives lost for your schemes! How can you live with yourself?!”

Loreli had to close her eyes against the force of Miriam’s words. She knew Jaylen had been feeding Miriam stories, making Loreli out to be the villain. Yet, the rogue remembered all of them; every face and every name. If she hadn’t known their names before they died, she’d gone back to learn them. Jaylen knew that, had mocked her for it, had tried to change her. Loreli shook her head.

“Did he also tell you that everything I did, I did on SI:7’s orders? Many of them from Shaw himself.”

“You’re lying!” She glanced over her shoulder at Jaylen, “She’s lying! Right?”

“Of course. Nothing she said to you was true before. Why now?” Jaylen asked.

“Miriam… what did he tell you his name was? Jasen? Janen? How about Jareth? Jaren? …Jaden?” she watched Miriam’s eyes widen slightly in recognition. “Aliases, all of them. His real name is Jaylen and I know you’re smart enough to put that together.”

Miriam’s eyes widened further, if possible. She began backing away from Loreli, turned, saw Jaylen behind her and squeaked, trying to get away from them both. Loreli saw Jaylen start to move, she was fast, but he had the distance advantage and she had to get up off the floor. He got to Miriam first. Before Loreli could blink, Jaylen had snatched the knife from Miriam’s hand and slit her throat.