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This is the journal of Alishe Na'shaile, Kaldorei druid in the land of Azeroth.
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Oct. 26th, 2008 @ 07:54 pm With eyes wide open...
The nightmare is upon us.

A few days ago, a wretched abomination attacked me when I was in Shattrath and I was lucky enough to happen upon a healer of the Dawn in my state of weariness. Members of the Dawn and my sister, Aurora cared for me while I recovered from the fever that nearly took hold of my entire being. It was two days before I was well enough to be reunited with my children and Dor'ano. I bade him to stay with them to keep them safe.

The healers worked hard to keep my constitution within me. To not lose me to the plague that threatened to take me with it. My body burned with a fever I have never experienced. My mind flooded with images vile and disturbing. My sleep was haunted with nightmares that surpassed all I had witnessed before this. Despite their best efforts, I still bear a scar. A wound from the attack. It has not been healed no matter what they have tried.

All the research that Dor'ano and I have done was to prepare for what would come in the north. Never did we imagine that the attacks would happen here. We were not ready for this. No one was. So many have fallen to the plague. Many more will follow after. There seems to not be enough healers and the armies we amass to combat the legion is dwindling down.

When I am well, I will meet with Tarquin. I am more determined than ever before to gain the new skills I need to go forward. To meet the challenges of the north. To fight harder than ever I have before. To protect what I love and hold dear.

I may still wear that bloody scar upon my skin, but I will use it as a reminder. Of what I will fight against and overcome. Arthas brought the battle to us... and soon, we shall bring the battle back to him. We will not falter. We will not fade. We will not be crushed.

For now, I stay close to Dor'ano and the children. I try to ease the worry that I see etched upon the faces of those I care for. I recover as best I can. And do my best, to keep hope in my heart.. despite all I have seen and felt that we will overcome. In the end.
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Jun. 16th, 2008 @ 07:20 pm A study of the scar...
Dor'ano and I found some time on our hands and decided to pursue another of my pet projects together. I continue to take dirt samples and study them in the hopes that I can discover what may be happening in Quel'danas and if there is some connection to the rumors we are hearing about the lich king possibly raising up an army once more.

We started our trek from the troll stronghold of Zul'Aman. I still find those buildings so beautiful and wonderous to behold. I could have stayed there alone just to sit and stare. But we had a mission and were hoping to trace the scar as far as we could, which meant traveling into the Quel'dori held lands. We are going to consider the idea of a trek just exploring more of the trollish creations when we have time again. But time does seem fleeting and hard to come by these days.

Into the "Ghostlands" we wandered, pausing for me to take a sample of some mushrooms I found as well as a bit of soil which seemed to have a strange green glow to it. It reminded us both of Felwood. The taint was definitely present but it seemed to not have an entire foothold upon the land itself. Though I will say that the animals, like in many realms affected by corruption were indeed very aggressive and wild looking. Such a shame.

The map I had procured from a goblin I came across in Shattrath turned out to be utterly useless. I had nothing thought to check the makers mark upon the bloody thing. It was something created... before... the scar was created and therefore there was no mention of where we could find it. If I see that little fiend again, he is certainly going to hear a thing or two from me.

Thankfully, we did not need to wander very far into the woods before the scar became obvious to us in the distance. I should not say thankfully however as I was definitely not thankful to see such devistation.

Tis the same as in other regions. A long path of... nothingness. The soil seeming tilled up, the plant life and anything else that may have been living there, destroyed, burnt and left to rot. I originally though I saw some stones in the dirt, only to discover, with horror, that they were in fact skeletal remains. This just... went on for as far as the eye could see.

Once thing remains glaringly obvious, the scourges hold upon the areas affected deepest still remains strong as it was when they marched. Their minions still wander these trenches, for what purpose I cannot seem to understand.

We followed the darkened land in one direction, choosing it entirely at random, only to find ourselves watching a fortress rise up from the ground, towering over everything around it. Skulls crafted from the same stone as the walls. It was foreboding and awful to see. I certainly had no desire to see inside, but Dor'ano was persuasive. He said that if we were to truly see what this was about, we needed to explore further. And he is right. However, if I could have turned the other way, I certainly would have.

Guards of various degree and nature were everywhere. Creatures of the scourge were wandering about, seemingly ready for a fight. And the inner buildings of this compound were almost as awful as the gate that greeted us. We made our way through it, trying to draw as little attention to ourselves as we could. Cauldrons, like those in the plaguelands were bubbling, brewing up some liquid I could not identify. And the green glow was present in the soil there, only to a much higher degree than what I had seen in the forest leading to this place.

Two towers with crystals hovering in the air above them, called our attention. The energy surrounding the crystal seemed to flow into the tower itself as if it was being channeled or harnessed. As silently as we could manage, Dor'ano and I pressed into one of the towers, determined to see if we could figure out what the use of it was.

Several conjurers were focused into their spells and indeed it seemed to us that we were using the crystals energies to infuse the soil beneath with some.. fel energy. It disturbed me greatly to think that they were busy doing such things and I can't help but wonder what the reasoning behind it could possibly be.

My first instinct was something to do Arthas. I could only pray to Elune that I was wrong.

We left the tower and crept around the grounds further, deeper inside, moving toward a building which seemed to occupy the very heart of it all. It was the darkest and more powerful looking build of them all. The energy that radiated from it was definitely not welcoming to either of us. But we can come that far, we needed to see more if we were going to remotely answer the questions that lingered in our minds.

Alishe set her journal down, hearing the sound of her children as they stirred from their afternoon nap. She would come back to it later, she promised herself.
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Jun. 11th, 2008 @ 09:49 pm By dragon's blood.. be healed.
As I was spending time at the lab in Quel'danas, I found myself chatting with another alchemist about salves and tinctures. In particular, I was expressing my frustration in not being able to find the right balance with the salve I am using to help treat Branwynne. I never mentioned her name, nor did I state her ailment, but I expressed a desire to make a more potent and yet less toxic creation. He suggested I make my way to Thelsamar. Apparently a dwarven alchemist there has come up with a very special salve which he will teach others to make if they prove their worth.

It seemed to me to be a good path to pursue. Since, well.. Branwynne is a dwarf. Perhaps this salve will be something that will help her in specific. Again, all I can do is try.

Shortly after I finished with my testing, I was on my way to Thelsmar. I found the master alchemist, Ghak Healtouch, in his home and greeted him after he invited me inside. I told him of my desire to learn how to make his salve and asked if he would teach me. He seemed a very nice fellow and only asked me to gather a few materials together for him in exchange for the lesson.

The strangest of the contents was dragon's blood. I cannot express how far down my jar dropped when this man requested this particular ingredient. At first, I thought he was joking... yet he just nodded pointed back to the list.

Hells. Dragons.

So.. to the badlands I wandered, list in hand. My mind reeling a little as I pondered just how sound this was. To treat her with dragon's blood? I almost turned back around and gave up the quest until I realized that this was not about me and my issues. It tis about Branny. And helping her however I can. Ghak certain knew more about dwarven alchemy than I ever could imagine. And so I had to trust a little.

The dragons were easy enough to find as they circled a spot in the corner of the badlands. Giant drakes which would have, at one time, frightened me a little to see. But compared to some of the sights I have seen now.. they were rather unimpressive.

I found a spot to stand, just out of their view and I readied myself. My mind focusing as I channeled nature's energies into me, determined to bring sleep to the nearest beast. When I had him incapacitated, I moved in closer and grabbed for the needle.

Dragon's blood.

I struck the needle into the rough hide, watching closely to see if the shock would wake the dragon from slumber. Thankfully the spell was strong and he did not budge. In fact, he barely twitched. I did what needed to be done and then I moved away quickly, leaving him to wake up with me far out of sight.

Back to Ghak's house with the materials he asked for, laying them all out on the table before him. I watched curiously as he began to grind things up and boil them together. His methods were certainly far different than my trainers in Darnassus. However, I enjoyed watching him and was grateful when he handed the recipe to me with a smile.

The salve is much less odorous than my own. I am not certain of the potency when it comes to Branwynne, but it is worth a try I think. I will bring by some to her tomorrow and check again to make sure that things have not grown worse.

Elune will guide our course. I believe that.
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Jun. 9th, 2008 @ 03:00 pm Burning the candle at both ends...
Alishe sat down the pencil and stared at the open page before her. She had read the words at least a few dozen times and still, she lingered there almost as if she was hoping something new would come from reading it just once more.

Branny's demeanor has not improved dramatically. But one can scarcely blame her for it. Considering what she has been through and what she is dealing with currently, I am afraid that anyone would be much the same.

The treatments continue, with no visual improvement. However, it does not seem to be getting worse. So for the moment, we wait.. and see. I try to have as much hope as I can for this to be something we can control and hopefully one day push back, ideally into non-existence. But there lingers an ever present reality that the worst is likely yet to come.

I try to steady myself for the possibilities, all the while keeping my hope that they will never come to pass. But I am a realistic girl. These are demonic energies we are dealing with. Uncertainty is always going to be a constant part of this journey.

I continue to work on my salve recipe, in the hopes I can make something a little less... disconcerting to the senses. I know Branny cannot be very happy having to use it so often as she does and while she does not complain, I hope that by making it a little easier in one way, I can help ease her.. even if just a little.

The current mixture is the following: Dreamfoil, Teroc..."

She rubbed her temple and moaned a little as the tension in her head started to throb. Perhaps some steelbloom. That was a fragrant herb which may counter some of the stronger bitter herbs she was using.

Prydion came into the room and walked up behind his wife, gently pressing his hands on to her shoulders. He started to massage and whispered. "Ishura, ye are still staring at that book? Ye should come outside I think. Spend some time in the garden, aye?" With a soft sigh, she nodded and leaned back in the chair, her head pressing against him. "I am glad you came in when you did, Dor'ano. It feels good to have you near."

He smiled and leaned down to kiss her cheek, nuzzling his nose against her neck. "Have ye got your bags packed for the trip, Ishura? I know that is weighing heavy on ye mind as well." She closed her eyes and took a long breath. "Mmm hmm. Just do not let me forget to bring my book with me. It has information I promised to give Genise and Ilarra when we meet with them." He took her hand and urged her from the chair. "Aye, su rini, I will remind ye."

Alishe rose slowly and moved into Prydion's arms, hugging him tightly with a contended sigh. As she pulled back and smiled to him, he watched her face carefully. "Still not sleeping well, Ishura? Ye look a bit weary to me." She nodded just a little. "Bloody dreams keep on nagging me. I find it hard to rest as I should. I still cannot believe Ilarra tried to give me potions!" He brushed a dark indigo curl from her face. "Maybe ye should have taken it from her. It couldn't have hurt." Alishe smirked at him. "I can make my own teas, Dor'ano. It is fine. When we make this trip, hopefully the dreams will end and I can rest again. For now... I will endure what I must."

Arms wrapped around her as he drew her close once more, not knowing what to say. He hated to see her in distress. She smiled at him as their foreheads met. It almost seemed as if they drew energy from one another and it was several moments before they finally pulled apart. With a soft smile and a gentle kiss, Prydion led Alishe out of the room.

The book lay open on the desk, discarded for now.

I will check on Branny again tomorrow and then finish getting everything ready for our journey. All I can hope is that Elune will continue to guide us as she has and that we will find the cause to these dreams.

Hyjal... awaits. Another trek will come soon. I hope I will be ready.
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Jun. 6th, 2008 @ 10:05 pm They say you can't go back again...
So, a saying I have heard is that you can never go back again from whence you've came. The past is the past. And for all the time I've lived, tis been true. Mind you, before our immortality was lost, it seemed as if time did not move at all for us. We were as we always had been. Babies were born and people grew older, but journey without end left us.. wanting.

At least that is how I feel.

There are some places in my past that I never truly wish to see again. Nor step foot upon. But tonight, I found myself called to one of the very worst of those things.. left behind.

Hyjal.

Bloody hell. My heart still races a little when I think of the name, let alone speak of it. To stand there, on ground that was so close to one of the worst experiences of my life. My stomach was in knots. My head was light. And I wanted so badly to just turn and run away.

Dor'ano kept steady watch on me and he was constantly reassuring to me. We were called there to attempt to right something gone wrong. To ensure victory. But in my heart, all I can see is devastation. The past. So many voices silenced for all time. So many lives lost. So much destroyed.

I cannot find a way to be happy being there. I cannot make peace with how I feel thinking that we must indeed venture back. My heart feels so weary and heavy.

We will soon venture back there. Travel back through their bloody time portals and march further toward the worst of the battle. We will soon find ourselves in the Kaldorei encampment. And tis very likely that I may see those who I once knew and cared for. Standing there along side of us, once more. Knowing that I can do naught to ease their fate. I cannot change it despite the fact that we are attempting to change other things.

This disturbs me greatly.

Tis hard enough to accept such things when they are gone and in the past. But to relieve it once more. Knowing that you still are unable to do a bloody thing to make it better? I am not sure how to make peace with that.

I suppose in the end. It will be a matter of what it always come down to.

A question of time.
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May. 11th, 2008 @ 09:55 pm Life in the busy world..
The past few weeks have been quite the whirlwind of activity for Dor'ano and myself. It seems harder than ever for us to find time to just relax. However, I am most happy to say that we have finally decided to find time just for us. A few simple picnics in quiet places where we have sat with one another, sharing our thoughts and re-discovering one another once more.

We somehow tried to be content with simply doing our tasks and fighting battles side by side, but lacked taking time away from those things. And now that we have, I can truly say that it tis something I've needed and appreciate more than I can say. It is far too easy to allow everything to come before us. To get caught up in it all and to not strengthen our bond and connection. But we have made ourselves a promise that it will not longer be the way of it. We will give ourselves the gift of each other.

This one simple act has helped us both to dissolve fear and worry that has wondered into our minds and hearts. It is still amazing to me to think on the fact that soon I shall have shared three years of marriage with my beloved Dor'ano. To think, when I began writing in this book, I had no idea where my life would head or what I would do. And now tis three years later. And I am more in love with this man than I have ever been. I watch him as a father to our children and it makes my heart swell to see such tenderness and caring. I listen to him speak and I truly admire his passion. I learn something new about him every single day and I never grow tired of being near him.

It is my hope that mayhaps in a few months, Dor'ano and I can hold a gathering to celebrate such a wonderful milestone with our friends and family. I think perhaps it would be nice for others to take time away from all this battling and hardship to just relax and enjoy life a little as well.

But in the meanwhile, the hardship goes on and we soldier on with it.

Tarquin called a meeting last week to discuss a few things. One of which was trying to sort out what we felt and thought about the situation in Quel'danas. Having spent much time there, I must admit I am a bit dreadful of delving deeper into the future of that place. I cannot help it though. I find myself drawn there and feel almost compelled to end whatever plan it is that Kael'thalas has for that place. The sunwell will not rise again. Or at least I hope it does not.

I fear it will be much like Staghelm's ill-fated plan to restore our immortality by creating a new world tree. As of yet, the corruption and repercussions of such an act has not been full revealed, but I feel it is only a matter of time. And to see the sunwell rise up once again. Bloody hell, I fear what it will mean to the Quel'dori. Who already have had such struggle with addiction. I cannot see it being used for a good cause and I truly do fear what would come next if it were to be reborn in any manner.

I promised the riders that I would study the soil in Quel'danas and see what I could find out. Especially in the scar zone itself where so many of the scourge have risen up. When next I venture there, I intend to see about setting up a small space to test and experiment what I find there, so as not to bring any of it back home. I have a strong feeling that whatever corruption lies there is not something we should transplant if it can be at all helped.

So, that has begun and we shall see in the new few weeks what it is that I can discern from it. Compared to some of the suggestions that came from my guildmates, I'm afraid my... contribution.. is rather timid and mild. Sometimes I worry about them. Bloody brash if you ask me and more often than not, they get themselves in quite a lot of trouble. But I stand by them.. and always will. For they are my truest friends, even if they may be a bit rough around the edges.

A mystery has also surfaced involving our dear friend, Branwynne. Something has come over her and I'm afraid she is fighting hard to keep us at bay, despite our pure desire to help her. More and more, tis looking as if some swift and potentially difficult action will be have to be taken. I am unsure what exactly we are facing, but unfortunately a few gnomes have gotten involved and have unknowingly made the situation worse with their attempts to solve the mystery with science. While I do applaud their creativity and desire to help, when dealing with such things as what Branny is, tis truly not the best to dive in without full understanding and knowledge of the situation at hand.

I will write more as I sort though it. For now, I fear I must go consult a book I have not picked up in quite some time. Hopefully, it will yield some better answers, though I am quite doubtful that it will give me anything but more unhappy and disturbing news.
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Apr. 21st, 2008 @ 07:06 pm Earning my wings... at last
Current Mood: ecstatic
This morning, I received a summons from the Cenarion Expedition. Specifically from Morthis Whisperwing himself, who is a powerful druid of the talon. Honestly? I was not looking forward to this meeting, as months had passed since I last spoke to him and it was not a pleasant conversation.

When I came to him back then, I had just found comfort in flying and was getting used to it when he stripped me of my ability to take the form. He felt that I was unready and undeserving of it. That I had things to learn and needed to prove myself. I could not recall the last time I had to do such a thing! I was infuriated. Frustrated and frankly, angry. How dare he!

The man spoke to me in such a manner that it brought Staghelm himself to mind. Bloody biter man. I know not what I ever did to provoke such a thing from him, but he did not seem to care for me one bit.

So I left the expedition, exalted with all else but him. I had no choice but to take myself to the Wildhammer clan and beg of them a mount to use until such time as I figured out whatever it was that I needed to do to prove myself worthy of flight once more. They seemed to be very amused by my plight. I suffered more than a few insults and when they finally realized that I was most serious and actually indeed needed their aid, they finally relented and entrusted me with a beautiful gryphon whom they apparently called Helix. Bloody strange name if you ask me. But it seems to fit him well.

Helix has been my companion for so long now, it is difficult to think that after today, I shall no longer be needing him. In fact, tonight, I will return to the Wildhammers and bring Helix home to them. I am trying not to think on it too long for it will bring tears to my eyes.

But I am getting ahead of myself.

I hesitated in responding to the summons, but Dor'ano was insistent that I not delay any longer. He felt that this was important and that perhaps it would finally be time for me to earn my right to be in the sky under my own power once more. I was not so convinced. But I went anyway. Dreading every single step I took toward that man.

Morthis Whisperwing greeted me with a bow when I arrived and the smile that had been on his lips just moments before, faded fast. "Alishe, you have left a task undone for far too long. I know not why you have abandoned the quest I charged you with, nor why you seemingly have decided that this is not something you care about. But I have called you here to ask once more, will you prove your worth?" His eyes bore into me like knives and I stood there, a bit stunned.

All I could whisper was, "Bloody hell." He smirked at me. "That is not the reply I was hoping for." I cleared my throat and did my best to explain my confusion. At his demeanor. At his taking something from me by force which I felt I had earned. I told him how difficult it had been for me. How bloody embarassing! He listened to all of my rant and then held up his hand to silence me from continuing onward.

"You wonder why the ravens took their gift and yet you still do not have peace within yourself." He paused and his eyes actually softened a bit. "Think, Alishe. Think hard on this." I sighed then. Remembering a revelation I had come upon a few months back. "One cannot fly when you are weighted to the world with guilt and woe." I bit my lip and looked at him again. Unsure of what to say or do.

To my surprise, he smiled and nodded his head. "Exactly. I had no doubt you would figure it out eventually, Alishe. But you sometimes do not listen without being pushed. Hard." I raised my eyebrows at him in shock. How could this man know a thing about me! We had never spoken before the day he chastised me so. He chuckled in response. "Rabine talks about you Alishe. And I listen." I blinked in surprise and shock. My mentor was the one who told him to do this? Bloody hell!

He motioned for me to sit down next to him and then smiled once more. "Now, I will try again. Softer this time for I can see you are overwhelmed by all of this." He turned and faced me. "Are you ready to take on the challenge I gave you? To earn your right to be part of the talon. To TRULY earn your place among us?" I swallowed hard and nodded slowly. I was afraid he would yell once more or tell me I was not ready.

Morthis nodded in response to my words. "Then gather your aid, Alishe. No more delays. No more waiting. Today. It must be today. Do you understand me?" I caught my breath. All these months of preparation I should have been doing. And I had not done any. I had let it slip past. I started to panic and then as I caught his glance, I realized that was not going to help my cause. So a deep breath was next on my mind. Calming my heart and mind as I thanked him for the chance to show I was worthy. I rose up and headed to find Helix, anxious to find Dor'ano.

I had no idea how difficult or easy the journey would be. Nor who I would gather with me. But I was blessed by Elune I suppose. The aid came quickly and before I knew it, Varenna, Isi, Calen'braga and my beloved Dor'ano were at my side, ready to take on the fight with me. I could not have asked for more.

The battle against Anzu was a bit more than I was prepared for. As soon as I stated I was ready to battle, a great portal opened up above us. It was dark.. and rather terrifying to see. I tried not to be afraid, but my heart was beating so quickly. But I embraced my fear and I decided that I would use it to help me endure this fight. Whatever came next. And when Anzu appeared before us, I was ready.

It seemed like it took ages to defeat him and his minions. We fought hard and together in every way. And when the dust finally settled and he was vanquished, I could not help but cry. We had done it! The task was done. And now I would see if Morthis would find me worthy to fly.. once more.

I quickly made my way back to him, anxious to see what he would say. To my shock, he chastized me for how long I had taken to decide I was ready. My heart sunk and I sighed, lowering my eyes from his face. "Alishe." He called to me, causing me to look at him again. "We are proud of you. Listen to them, Alishe. They are calling for you to join them." He nodded as I stared in disbelief. "Ask them for their aid. And they will help you to fly once more."

With closed eyes, I whispered to the ravens flying nearby. Asking for guidance. Thanking them for their confidence in me. And requesting from them, my renewed ability to take to the sky. I held my breath. And waited.

The vision of a bird in flight filled my mind and I felt such a sudden rush of wind on my face. I gave myself over to it, wholly. Completely. I was one of the talon. I had earned my place amongst their numbers and for the first time, I was comfortable. My eyes opened then and I found myself high above the ground. Hovering there. My wings flapping in the wind, keeping me steady. The sound of the ravens nearby growing louder as they circled me.

I earned my wings today.

And I am complete.
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Apr. 19th, 2008 @ 06:00 pm Gaining ground
Current Mood: content
Well, it has been a while since I've taken pen to this paper. Indeed, this poor notebook has sat, unloved and unopened, for quite some time now. But I can scarcely feel badly for such as it has been life itself which has kept me from my writing.

Before I began this entry, I sat down to glance back at all I had written and shared in this beloved diary of mine. Some entries brought me to tears and others, made me smile or outright laugh. Tis good to see where one has been. To be able to judge the distance that you have come. The changes of our life and to note what has come before the now.

My house is still for the moment. I am enjoying the brief reprieve from the hustle and bustle that life has become. It seems we are always in motion these days. Either chasing after Rowan and Kareelin. Attempting to keep the cats from mischief which they seem to excel at. Or being called to yet another place to fight.

The children have gone out to play with Sylang, who has been the most wonderful caregiver for them that I could have asked for. I am so grateful for her patience and the time she gives to us. Meanwhile, Dor'ano is next to me, napping after a grueling morning. I had thought to rest as well, but a strange dream woke me from slumber. It seems to be the norm as of late. My dreams are wild and often unpredictable. But they also seem to be the way that Elune gives me messages. So, I will ponder this one for a while and mayhaps find rest with my Dor'ano shortly.

It feels good to write once more. I should do so more often.
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Nov. 16th, 2006 @ 09:38 am Hair today.. gone tomorrow...
Slowly Alishe came out of her dream, her eyes not open yet. She could feel the tiniest bit of movement next to her causing her to smile. Exahusted eyes opened and she glanced upon the tiny face of her son. Somehow she had fallen asleep with Rowan next to her again. He wasn't fussing, yet, and seemed content to just look around and squirm. "Good morning Rowan." She whispered to him as she leaned in close to nuzzle his soft newborn skin with her nose. Tiny hands immediately reached out to grasp a huge chunk of her hair.

"Yeouch!" She giggled as she tried to unclasp the death grip Rowan had upon her. He was most definitely a strong child. As was his sister. "Let go, little one. Ow. Ow. Ow. No wonder so many mothers cut their hair at this point. Ow!" It took a few moments, but eventually Alishe freed herself and her hair from his hands. She grinned and brushed her fingertips against his face. "So sweet you are. Even if you are trying to make your mother bald!"

Prydion's chuckle caused her to glance across the room. He was sitting in a chair with Kareelin asleep in his arms. Obviously she had not allowed him to sleep very well either. "O fulo osa su alah'ni." Alishe smiled as she scanned his face. She should have made sure he went to bed as well. He looked as tired as she felt. His eyes still sparkled though as he looked to her. "I love ye too Ishura." He rose cautiously and settled Kareelin into the craddle as Alishe watched him silently, her hand now the newest playtoy for their son.

"When does Sylang come?" Prydion whispered as she drew near to the bed, smiling down at Rowan as tiny arms reached upward. Alishe started to stretch and a huge yawn escaped her lips. "Soon, I would think. I suppose I should straighten up a little before she arrives, aye?" Prydion grinned as he brushed something out of Rowan's hand. "He got you good this time, Ishura. Look at all this hair he robbed ye off!" Alishe laughed. "Yes, he has quite the grip. Just hope he doesn't do the same to you!" She winked as Prydion's eyebrows raised up. A gigglefit soon took hold as Prydion gave his soon a stern but playful look. "Don't ye even think on it, son. I like me hair where it is!"

Alishe laid back into bed and snuggled in against the pillow. All she wanted was a few more hours of sleep. "Have ye had your belly filled, me little lad?" Prydion slowly raised up the baby from Alishe's arms. "Mmm hmm. He should be fine for at least a little while now." Alishe murmured back sleepily, her eyes closing once more. She could barely feel his hand coming down to brush against her forehead as her mind drifted back off again. Sleep taking her prisoner and not letting loose. "Rest yeself Ishura. O fulo osa." He whispered as she leaned over to kiss her cheek.

She nearly jumped when she heard him yelp. Rowan had grabbed hold of his father's hair this time. "Ye. Ow. Son! Hell!" Alishe couldn't help but giggle. She didn't have her eyes open but she could imagine the scene even still. Prydion grunted as he tried to get the claw-like grip of his son to release his precious hair from it's grasp. However, Alishe never found out how long it took for her husband to free himself fully. By that point, she had long since been asleep.
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Nov. 15th, 2006 @ 01:30 pm In the afterglow...
She watched silently as his brow furrowed again. His closed eyes tightened slightly and his breathing increased. Always so restless as of late. That was her Dor'ano. Her hand moved slowly and fingertips brushed against his cheek very lightly. "Shhh Dor'ano. O fulo osa." Then just as suddenly, he relaxed again. It seemed to be ever the case as of late. She found that it was her husband that kept her up at night more than her sleeping newborns.

Alishe turned her head and glanced over at the cradle which contained the slumbering twins. Snuggled up together, they were happily dreaming. Their soft breathing echoed in the quiet room and she couldn't help but smile. How sweet they were. How fragile. They had been born early. Of that there was no doubt, they were absolutely tiny. Surprising considering how huge Alishe had felt in the last weeks of her pregnancy. Then again, she had no idea that all the random movement and internal beatings she was enduring was actually the product of two little ones.

Prydion and Alishe had worked hard to care for the babies and to use their healing energies combined to strengthen their children. Almost a month had passed and they were very relieved to see that both Prydrowan and Kareelin were very healthy and growing stronger every day.

From beside her, Prydion groaned again and her attention turned back to him. She pressed herself against her husband, wrapping her arms around him. Almost as if on instinct alone, his arms moved to embrace her tightly. His body starting to respond to the feel of her against him. Alishe brushed her lips against his neck and paused, sighing ever so softly. Certainly she could wake him up at this point, but she hesistated to do so. After all, rest seemed to come so rare to Prydion. She kissed his neck and heard him murmur in his sleep. Something inbetween a whimper and a moan. His hand roaming along the bare skin of her back and coming to rest upon her hip. It was then he whispered something to her which made her grin.

He was awake. And it was rather obvious.

Amorous kisses soon followed and it was safe to say that it was not only Prydion who was enjoying the fact that Alishe's body was returning back to her normal form. As often happened with Alishe and Prydion, soon there was nothing else but the two of them in each other's arms.

That is.. until...

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!"

Alishe's forehead came to rest against Prydion's shoulder with a soft thunk and they both began to snicker softly. Reality came back to them swiftly, in the form of Rowan's howl. She opened her eyes and turned her head toward the cradle, only to see that Kareelin too was starting to stir. "Ye were too loud, Ishura." Prydion whispered with a wicked grin. Alishe jabbed him playfully in the side. "I think not, Dor'ano. If anyone woke them, it was you!" Again came Rowan's hunger call as Alishe reached for her nightgown.

"Shhh. Yes, fulo. I'm coming." His sister soon joined and the house began to be filled with the sound of newborn wailing. A very tired Prydion pulled himself from bed, quickly dressing himself as well and then scooping up his daughter who squirmed and fussed in his arms. He kissed her forehead and smiled at Alishe who had settled down with Rowan, nursing him almost as if it was second nature. Even that had not be easy for Alishe, but she had endured the difficulty like a champ and Prydion couldn't help but sigh happily at the sight. "O fulo osa, su rini. Ye are truly beautiful. I hope ye know that." Alishe's eyes met his and she smiled brightly at him.

Kareelin cried out loudly, eager for her turn. Her father walking around the room, trying his best to soothe her into submission as he waited for Alishe to finish with her brother. After a little while, the new parents swapped babies and Alishe went to work on sating her very fussy daughter. Prydion plunked wearily down in a chair, patting Rowan's back in a half-hearted attempt to burp him. But every pat got softer and softer until they ceased entirely.

A soft smile and a very faint chuckle came from Alishe as she watched the two men in her life snoozing before her. Her hand brushing against the fine soft hair of infant still nursing happily away. Kareelin finished her meal and soon she too was back in happy slumber. Very quietly and carefully, Alishe lifted up her daughter and settled her back in the cradle, soon after to be joined by her sibling.

With quiet footfalls, Alishe crossed the room again and reached out her hand brushing it lightly against Prydion's hair, her lips curled up in a adoring smile. He moved just a little then, his hand coming to capture hers, pulling her rather swiftly upon his lap. He nuzzled her neck with his lips and murmured sleepily at her. She wrapped her arms around him and whispered softly in response. "Later love. Later." Her frowned just a little, but it didn't last for long as he could not argue with his fatigue. With a yawn, Alishe led them both back to their bed and curled up in his arms, happy to just be close to him.

And soon the entire house was filled with the sound of contented sleep.
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Oct. 31st, 2006 @ 02:03 pm A labor of love..
((I need to start by thanking everyone for the amazing fun rp last night! I never thought I'd say that about labor. *grins* But that truly without a doubt was one of the most funny and enjoyable nights I've had in a while. I needed the laughs you gave me and I so appreciate the amazing roleplaying everyone did. Not to mention the patience you all showed while we waited for Prydion!

This story is not written by me alone. Some of it is retold from screenies I managed to take while we went along. I only wish I could have taken more because I'm sure that I've missed something! I can only hope that I got Calaria's accent right, and I'll double check to make sure.

I might be fixing things up as I go, but I wanted to get this first draft out to everyone since I know that quite a few people were anxious to read it!

Enjoy and thank you again, especially Calaria, Aurora, Isewyn, Alistair and Aradna who escorted Alishe all the way from Menethil to their house in Ashenvale! What fun! :) ))

Soft grunting noises from the other side of the room began to wake Alishe from her dreams. Squinting, Alishe opened one eye and gazed blearily over toward the cradle that held her newborns. The other eye opened and she smiled as she watched Prydion lift one of their children up, cradling the swaddled baby in his arms. He had truly taken to fatherhood so naturally. It was almost as if he had done it before.

The night had been a long one, filled with fussing from the babies and tears from Alishe as she struggled with figuring out how to nurse two newborns at once. Hormones were getting the best of her. But Prydion just continued to be the voice of calm, reassuring his wife that all would be well. The couple would finally get to sleep when one or both of the twins would awake again, needing some sort of tending to.

"Ohhh.. I feel. I feel like I just..." Prydion grinned at his wife as he laid the baby gentle into Alishe's arms. "Ye feel like ye gave birth to twins, aye?" Alishe laughed softly. "Aye, and then some." She took a deep breath and loosened the top of her nightgown. "I can do this." Her son was now beginning to squawk from hunger. "Aye, Ishura. Ye can." Prydion brushed his hand against her hair and smiled at them both. With another deep breath, Alishe managed to get the baby settled into nursing. The sensation was going to take some getting used to. A few times Alishe bit her lip almost to the point of making it bleed because the pain. Calaria had assured her that she would adjust and soon it wouldn't hurt at all.

"Just breathe, su rini. Just breathe." Alishe was so grateful for his constant support and encouragement. She stared down at the tiny hand which gripped her finger, her mind still a whirl at all that happened just less than a day ago.

It had started like any other day. Alishe sleeping very little after a night of discomfort. The contractions coming and going. She told herself she should be used to them by now. She had been feeling them for weeks, but it was a bit different that morning. They were starting to get very regular. Like clock work. And the intensity was.. overwhelming at times. But she kept telling herself that it would eventually stop and go away. It had been the way of things.

A walk in the garden had not managed to lessen her restlessness and so Alishe slowly made her way to Stormwind. The streets were filled with those in costumes, laughing and making merry. She tried to smile back, but her mind was filling with distress. Dor'ano had left early to gather a few things for her and she was missing him horribly for some reason.

Pain seized Alishe and she leaned against the wall behind her. Silently she counted, a habit she had taken to since these pains had begun. It was her way of comforting herself into remembering that it would not last forever. The pain climaxed to a point where she was clenching her jaw and tears began to appear at the edges of her tightly closed eyes.

When it finally passed, Alishe forced herself to breathe again, nearly started by the sudden cackling of a woman nearby as she flirted with her companion. Alishe's hand rested against her very large stomach. "You have to move, Alishe. You have to go... home." Although she couldn't see her feet and hadn't in quite some time, she willed them to take her to the flight master, who eyed Alishe warily. "Are you sure you are fit to ride madam? Perhaps you should head to the cathedral?" She sighed at him. "No." She said firmly. "I have to go home!" When he continued to argue with her over the fact that she looked as if she needed some immediate attention from a priest, Alishe glared and started to search her bags. She yanked out her hearthstone which was cool in her hand.

In the blink of an eye, Alishe was standing in Menethil, the place that she, Meep and Prydion had once called home. Ages ago it seemed, before Meep had gone off to travel the world with her mother Reeza. Alishe smiled as she thought of her adopted daughter, missing her horribly. She would have to read the latest letter again when she got home. It would make her feel better.

"Miss Alishe, are you.. alright?" The innkeeper reached out a hand toward Alishe's arm as she leaned against the wall, a sudden sharp pain taking hold of her stomach. "Mmmm hmmm!" Alishe whimpered and bit her lip as the pain soared to new heights. "You know, the room you used to rent happens to be free. Maybe you should stay here until Prydion comes?" In the midst of whimpers and a soft whine, Alishe nodded her head. At that point, she would have agreed to pretty much anything if it meant that the pain would lessen. "Right." The innkeeper nodded back and steadied Alishe against her, attempting to help her up the stairs to the room.

The comfort of the bed lasted only a moment before Alishe was restless again. The innkeeper had hesitantly left Alishe with several apologies, having to attend to others in the inn. Alishe tried to assure her that all was well, but she was becoming less certain of that herself.

The midwife that her mother had recommended had never contacted them. And Alishe was unsure of what to do when things were like this. No Dor'ano. No family. No one she knew close by. Panic was filling her to the brim as another spike of pain hit, taking her breath away with it. Alishe barely managed to speak to the others on the buzzbox as she paced the room. "Walking. I need to walk." She opened the door of her room and back down the stair she went. She could barely hear the protests of the innkeeper, who was attempting to settle out some dispute as she left the inn entirely.

The steps were so exhausting and each one brought a new pang or ache. She didn't want to move and yet, she could not remain still. This was confusing to say the least. She made her way to the water's edge, a place that often soothed her when times were rough and slowly lowered herself down to sit. She wasn't entirely sure that she'd be able to get back up, but at that moment in time, it felt like the right thing to do.

"Dor'ano.. where are you?" She closed her eyes and released a long slow breath from her lips. The buzzbox was roaring with commotion suddenly. People asking after her as they realized that her being alone just might not be the best of ideas after all. "Where are ye lass?" Homrend asked, with obvious concern in his voice. "At the inn." Alishe answered back, whimpering as her stomach began to harden once more with the next contraction. Why they kept asking her that was beyond her at that moment. She was at the inn of course, how could they not understand!

It took several moments before someone finally caught on that Alishe was, in fact, in Menethil. "Aurora, I need you." Alishe whispered and bit her lip once again, wishing with all her might that someone she knew was with her. "Dor'ano.." She groaned loudly and tried to slow her breathing down. "Lass?" It was Aradna's voice that filled her ears suddenly. Alishe opened her eyes and stared at the dwarf in front of her. "I know I'm nae the one you wanted ta see, but I'm here." Alishe smiled, feeling a bit more relieved than she was prepared to admit at the moment. Before she could say much of anything, more pain took over her senses and Alishe whimpered loudly.

"We should get you inside, lass. Out here is nae a proper place ta birth." Alishe could only whimper and groan in response. It took almost a minute before she could blurt out her words. "No. Home! I must be home!" Aurora's voice answered her. "Why?" Alishe gasped loudly and grabbed a hold of her big sister's hand, griping it very tightly. "Because!" She wailed as the worst of the pain began to subside once more.

Aurora gritted her teeth and attempted as best she could to console her little sister. Seeing her in pain and not being able to do a thing was something the huntress was not prepared for. "Don't leave me. Please." Alishe begged and stared into Aurora's eyes. "I won't, Alishe. I promise." Aurora smiled and tried to look calm, when her heart was racing so hard she thought it would burst entirely.

"My house is nae far from here, Alishe. We should take ye there." Aradna was trying to help Alishe to her feet, but she was resisting, determined to have her way. "Home. I have... to.. be.. home!" Calaria joined the trio and greeted them all softly, immediately trying to assess the situation at hand. She could tell that it would not be long before Alishe would give birth and somehow they had to get her to a bed. They all attempted to convince Alishe that it was just too far and that the journey itself was too much to do right then.

Alishe just shook her head, determined to overcome the pain she felt and make it to the comfort of her home in Ashenvale. If she couldn't have her husband with her, she would at least have that. She could not endure the thought of anything less for the birth of her baby. Aurora helped her to her feet and she clung to her older sister, afraid to let go. "Home, please. Aurora. Please." Aurora sighed, resigned. "Alright then. Let's go. You have to walk." Alishe nodded and took a deep breath before willing her feet to move once more.

The trek was a very long and tedious journey from the shoreline to the dock. Alishe barely made it upon the boat before she gripped the side, hit with another contraction which nearly crumpled her to her feet. "It's less rocky in the middle, Alishe." Aurora called to her sister. "But.. that means.. I have to walk.. over there!" Alishe called back loudly. "Just. Trying to help sis." Aurora muttered back.

Calaria, Aurora and Aradna helped Alishe across the width of the boat as it docked, with Alistair and Isewyn nearby. Alistair was arguing that Alishe should give up the idea of going home and should instead go to Darnassus. "Don't make me hit you, Alistair." Alishe growled at him as he persisted despite her continued insistence that she had to be at home for this. "I have a hard head, Alishe. You won't hurt me." He quipped back. She paused and blinked at him. "I can throw things. Hard." Aurora shook her head and motioned for Alistair to stop. "Trust me, she can. Let's just leave it at that shall we?"

Halfway to the inn of Auberdine, Alishe stopped cold and her eyes grew very wide. "Waaa ter!" The party around here looked at her in confusion. Some thinking she was about to faint, others reaching for something to drink. "NO!! Water!" Alishe whimpered out the words inbetween spasms of her stomach. Her cheeks were flushing as she realized her legs were now starting to become drenched.

"Keep walking, Alishe." Her sister muttered. "But.. my water broke!" Alishe whined back. "Well, being here won't help that. You have to keep going!" Alishe sighed. Aurora was right of course. The steps to the inn were more difficult than the ones before them. How would she ever make it home? "Banthalos" Alishe whispered as she thought of her tiger companion. He would get her there.

"Isewyn, you must fly to Ashenvale. Aurora... We need to ride. I cannot fly." They all looked on, worried. Alishe was being so stubborn, but they realized that continuing to argue would not help. Instead they all needed to work together in order to bring Alishe home. "We'll go slow, Alishe. We'll go slow." Aurora whispered comfortingly and Alishe nodded back. With a grunt, she managed to get herself on the back of her beloved tiger and whimpered softly as he began to move. It was going to be a long ride at this rate.

Barely outside out of Auberdine, Banthalos suddenly took off running, Alishe unable to stop him. "Banthalos! NO!" She screamed as they raced along the road. The bloody cat had lost his mind she thought to herself as the pain intensified. "Get a reign on him!" Aurora beloved to Alishe who was all but crumpling over on the saddle. "STOP!" Alishe screamed to the tiger, who suddenly stopped moving in order to avoid running fully into Aurora in front of him. He growled and bared his teeth to Aurora, which shocked everyone. "What has gotten.. into.. you!" Alishe whimpered.

"Let's go on. Slowly." Aurora sighed. Alistair, Aurora and Aradna all rode along with Alishe, sending Calaria ahead of them to prepare the house for their arrival. The contractions were arriving faster now, leaving Alishe unable to speak much at all. Whimpers were the most that they got out of her much of the remaining trip. Alishe actually had to dismount from Banthalos altogether not long before they reached the house. With the assistance of her sister, Alishe finally stood in her doorway. Relief was obvious on her face.

"I'll see what I kin do about these pests around here, Alishe." Aradna nodded and headed off without another word, determined to do something to help Alishe, even if it wasn't being in the room itself. After all, she wasn't good at birthing babies and knew nothing about the process. Alishe smiled weakly and nodded back as the dwarf huntress headed away.

"We should git ye into bed, lass." Calaria called as Alishe took a stop forward. With a deep groan, Alishe settled upon the bed. Still no sign of her love. "It won't be long now." Calaria was wandering around trying to get things set up for the birth. "But.. I can't.. do that yet!" Alishe bellowed and nearly burst into tears. Aurora put her hand on her sister's arm. "Nature will take it's course lass. You have to go with it." More panic filled Alishe. She was going to have this baby without her husband.

"Dor'ano. You bloody bastard!" She yelled suddenly when the next contraction reached it's peak. This had to end. She couldn't take any more. Aurora was looking panic stricken, not having any idea what to do to ease the suffering of her sibling. The men standing outside were nojt sure what to do next, so Calaria set them to boil some water for them.

The men fumbled and Alishe could actually see them running back and forth in front of the doorway to the house. Alishe and her sister blinked at one another. "Don't they teach how to make a simple fire to humans" Aurora smirked as Alistair blew on the fire trying to give it more air to burn. "I heard that!" He yelled back into the house.

"I think they got a fire goin'.. Mebee they're trying te make th' water boil faster?" Calaria shrugged. "Stop listening and more actual fire" Aurora grumbled back at the men outside. "Bubbles.. come on, bubbles..." Alistair muttered as Alishe cried out very loudly, almost sitting up in her bed.

Aurora boggled at the fact that she was actually becoming used to the distressing sounds of her sister. "This is normal.. right?" She looked to Calaria as the dwarf wiped off Alishe's forehead with a damp cloth. "Aye, it is. It's prolly gonna get much louder before everythin's done an over wit." From outside, Alistair told Isewyn, ".. if the little guy did more than puff fire, I'd use him..." He stared at his crimson whelping and pondered. "Hmmm..." Alistair then grabbed at the whelpling who tried to bite him. "Yea... I'm thinking that's a no."

Aurora sighed and shook her head. "Why do I see several healing prayers coming out of this..." Calaria rose slowly, chanting over Alishe as she writhed in pain, the worst of the latest contraction starting to hit the edge of her tolerance. "I'm gonna try one nae.. mebee it'll calm ev'ryone down a wee bit."

"By the light, I never thought I'd be so happy to see steam." Alistair grinned as the water finally began to show signs of boiling. Alishe sighed a little, relaxing as the soothing of Calaria began to ease her just a little.

"They can face down corrupted trolls.. stand against the Blood God.. fight through the bowels of Blackrock Mountain. Light a fire? They couldn't do that with Ragnaros' help." Aurora shook her head, smirking once more. "I heard that too!" Alistair grumbled toward the doorway. "But you haven't said I'm wrong!" She muttered back.

"Ye lads got it boilin' yet, eh?" Calaria interrupted the quarreling pair. "Fate is against us!" Alistair called back. "It's, uh.. it's coming." Aurora snorted. "The water or their tempers? One guess as to which is boiling." It seemed as if Aurora was relaxing finally, taking comfort in her ability to go back to sarcasm once again.

"You're using wood.. right?" She called to Alistair. "I think they sold us defective firewood." He muttered as he tried to poke at the wood in an attempt to make the fire burn hotter. "NO! We're using troll flesh! Of course we're using wood!"

Alishe's cries silenced them all for a moment and Calaria grasped hold of her hand. Aurora, took hold of the other and muttered, "Wouldn't surprise me." then focused her attention upon Alishe who cried out "Dor'ano!" Calaria wiped her forehead and tried to calm Alishe down. "Homrend should have found him by now, lass. He'll be here soon."

"It's getting colder, isn't it... I just know it will.." Alistair was still fumbling with the fire as it began to smoke far more than it was burning. "Do you have tinder?" Aurora rose up and peeked outside.
"Tinder? Men don't need tinder!" Alistair growled, poking at the fire once again. "If you don't have any, back in TOWN!" Aurora was glaring at this point, getting rather frustrated with the men who couldn't seem to make the fire burn no matter what they did.

"An' get 'er a birthin' dress!" Calaria called. Alishe snorted at the thought of her sister wearing a dress, only to realize that her sister was now glaring at her. Amusement didn't last long as the pain hit once more. She was now grunting and it even appeared that she was getting ready to start pushing. Calaria muttered, watching over Alishe. It wouldn't be long now.

"There! Uther's Blood, bubbles! I told you!" Alistair seemed quite proud of himself. "Bubbles... we have bubbles!" Isewyn confirmed. "Water's hot!" Aurora rolled her eyes. "Blowing in it with a straw doesn't count." Alistair ignored the comment and stared blankly at Isewyn suddenly. "Quick! Who's taking it in?" Isewyn stared back. Neither of them moved for a moment and then suddenly Isewyn spoke. "I will, I guess..." He then fumbled around in his bag looking for something to put on his hands so they would not be burnt. "Your courage will be remembered." Alistair grinned as Calaria rolled her eyes. "And so will your.. proficiency." Aurora quipped. "My... what?" Isewyn asked as he entered the room cautiously. "Nothing, just go." Alistair nudged Isewyn as Calaria burst into laughter.

I ain't leavin' 'er side. Sae ye gotta come in!" Calaria called to Isewyn as he continued to hover in the doorway, not moving one way or another. Aurora grinned to Isewyn. "I won't shoot you, it's alright.. We need comedy in this world." Isewyn was trying to avoid looking at Alishe who was starting to pant breathlessly on the bed. "I.. erm.."

"Just put it down lad!" Calaria called and put her focus back on Alishe. Isewyn did as she asked and quickly left the room. "Ishura, I'm coming!" Prydion finally called to Alishe over the buzzbox. Her eyes teared up briefly as relief washed over her. He would be here after all!

"I can't take it anymore!" Alishe groaned more loudly than she had before and the grunting came again. "Get ready lass. It's time!" Calaria helped Alishe into position and soon she was starting to push. "That's it. Push hard!" Prydion ran into the room, stopping suddenly as he took in the sight before him. His mind whirled as he tried to grasp what he was seeing. "Ishura! Are you alright? How are you feeling?"

"SHUT UP!" Alishe yelled at everyone, grunting loudly as she pushed with all her might. "I'm sorry." She whimpered almost immediately afterward, trying to catch her breath inbetween contractions. "It's alright lass. Just push!" Calaria tried to soothe Alishe and encourage things onward as best she could.

The pain was overwhelming. The only thing that remotely lessened it was pushing and so that's all Alishe focused on. Making the pain stop. The men outside sat quietly, staring at the fire. Alistair humming softly as Isewyn stared into the flames, wincing every time he heard Alishe cry out.

"I can see the head!" Calaria called out. "Just keep pushin!" Alishe screamed as the baby was born, a newborn cry suddenly filling the air. "How is my son? Is he.." Prydion called out as Calaria interrupted him. "Ye have a lass Alishe!" Alishe had collapsed back against her pillows and grinned wearily. She had been right after all! They had a daughter! "What?" Prydion blinked in disbelief as he stared at the wriggling infant in Calaria's arms. He continued to stare on as she was given over to Alishe.

A flood of emotion hit Prydion. It was so important to have a son. For the sake of his family. He had felt it within his entire being that his son would be born now. Slowly, he shook his head, trying to catch his breath. He didn't want Alishe to feel that she had let him down in any way and tried to smile reassuringly at her when she caught his eye.

This daughter was loved to be sure, but he couldn't help but feel some sense of loss at the idea that the son he dreamed of... the son that would help bring about peace to his ancestors had not been born after all. His eyes came to rest upon the face of his daughter. She was beautiful though.. Just like her mother. Slowly a smile crossed his lips. His daughter. He had a daughter. His eyes met Alishe's once more and the smile grew brighter. "Ye did well, Ishura. She's beautiful. Just like you." Alishe sighed happily.

"It is done" Isewyn whispered to Alistair as the commotion inside settled down. Aurora grinned and reached out to brush her hand against her nieces forehead. "Congratulations ta ye both!" Calaria grinned. "I'm so glad that's over..." Alishe suddenly gasped and groaned once more. "Dor'ano.. take her!" The newborn was suddenly shifted to Prydion as Alishe cried out. "BLOODY HELLLLL!!!!"

"What's this?" Calaria blinked in disbelief. "Another one is on the way!" Alishe groaned and began to push again. "Push, lass, push hard!" Alishe gasped for air and almost started to cry. "I.. can't. I can't!" Calaria calmed herself in her excitement and looked into Alishe's eyes. "Aye lass. Ye can. Just push." And with that, Alishe began to push as hard as her body could muster.

Within a few moments, the cries of another infant filled the room. "Ye have a boy!" Prydion stared and almost had to catch his breath. He looked from Alishe who fell back against her pillows, looking very pale but so beautiful... to his daughter who cooed softly in his arms.. over to the squalling newborn in Calaria's arms. "By the light! He is born! He's here!" Prydion moved closer, almost afraid to believe it.

Both children were given over to Alishe who nuzzled and kissed them. Tears filled her eyes as she stared down at her newborns. Alishe had always been about balance. Finding balance within herself and within the world around her. To finally have her laboring done only to discover that she had indeed been carrying both a son and a daughter all this time.. was it's own beautiful balance in itself.

Prydion stared with disbelief at his wife and their tiny newborn children. In the span of a few moments, he had gotten everything he could have desired and more. He was a father twice over. And the hope of his family had indeed come into being a reality. For all that he had desired a son, his eyes kept moving toward his daughter. She seemed to be the balance that he needed as well. And maybe, she was the balance that his family had overlooked all these long years.

"I should be taking me leave I think." Calaria whispered softly, grinning at the new family. "I owe you so much thanks, Calaria." Alishe whispered back as she cradled her children. Calaria nodded and grinned from ear to ear. "I should be going too. I'm sure I'll see more of them tomorrow." Aurora grinned at her sister, still in shock that she was an aunt twice over.

"Now, it's done." Alistair said to Isewyn, who didn't seem to so sure. "We should probably get going ourselves. Nothing more to do here." Isewyn glanced at the house and then nodded slowly. Both of them pausing to stare once more at the fire which now blazed brightly.

The others had not been gone long before Alishe and Prydion were joined by Homrend, who was very excited to hear the news that Alishe had finally given birth. He grinned at them both and congratulated them repeatedly, settling down the bucket of water he had brought with him. The men grinned at one another while Alishe stared at the bucket.

"Homrend... What is the water for?" She had asked the question three times before he finally answered. "Ach, it's a dwarven custom lass. I meant tae toss it on Prydion." Alishe blinked. "But you already threw water on him once! Don't you remember. The day I told Dor'ano we were expecting!" Homrend chuckled and shook his head. "Nae fears lass. I won't be doing it today." He grinned as she looked back and forth between the babies. "So, the question on everyone's mind!" Alishe and Prydion eyed Homrend and Alishe tilted her head, waiting to hear what it was. "What do their ears look like?!"

Alishe smirked a little and then laughed softly. She hadn't even had a chance to really look. "Well.." Alishe said as she slowly brushed back the blanket that covered her daughter's head. "She has her father's hair." Prydion grinned then. "And her mother's looks!" He quickly chimed in. Homrend peered at her, trying to get a closer look at her ears when Prydion's hand brushed against the soft curls of the newborn's hair. His fingers edging past the slightly pointed delicate ears. Homrend nodded. "Hmmm."

Alishe smiled and snuggled her daughter close. Prydion had taken up their son in his arms and was showing him off to Homrend when Corise arrived. "Hello and congratulations to you both!" Everyone greeted her and the new parents thanked her for the well wishes. Her visit wasn't very long. She remained long enough to fawn over the babies and couldn't help but feel a slight pang of longing as she gazed at the sweet face of the sleeping newborn she actually got to hold in her arms.

"We should be goin." Homrend said suddenly and Corise nodded in agreement. More congratulations were said and then suddenly the new parents found themselves alone.

Alishe fumbled with their son as she tried to figure out how to nurse him properly. He seemed content for a few moments, then fussed. Only to go back to nursing again soon after. Prydion cradled their daughter in his arms who began to fuss and wail, obviously wanting a turn at something to eat herself. Soon, Alishe was asking to trade with him. "You'll have to burp him Dor'ano." She whispered as she settled back with their daughter, watching with a proud smile as Prydion settled his son against his shoulder and patted him gently.

"They need names, love." Prydion nodded slowly. "Aye, that they do." He lifted his son up and gazed into his face. "What is ye name my boy?" Alishe pondered herself as she watched them. Moments passed with neither saying a word, lost in their own thoughts as to what to call this beautiful boy. Then, they both spoke at once.

"Rowan." Alishe said.

"Prydrowan" Prydion spoke at the same time.

Alishe laughed. "Did we just come up with practically the same name at the same time?" After all, they hadn't even discussed a single name since she became pregnant. The argument that Prydion was convinced it would be a boy had nipped that in the bud. Prydion grinned back to his wife. "Aye. It's as if we just knew what his name should be." He then kissed his son's head and smiled. "Aye. Prydrowan is ye name."

Alishe bit her lip and glanced away. "Rowan. I want to call him Rowan." Prydion's eyes snapped back to her and he frowned. "He needs to have his own name Dor'ano. I mean no offense. But he should have his own name." The frown deepened. "He has his own name! A grand name that is attached to his family. As it should be!" Alishe bit her lip harder and sighed. This argument could go on for hours she realized.

"I want to call him Rowan." She hesitantly glanced at him and spoke before he could interrupt her further. "His name.. in stone.." Alishe spoke of the ritual that Homrend had mentioned to them before he left. "Can be Prydrowan, but only if you allow me to call him Rowan." She stared at Prydion and held her breath waiting for his response.

A very slow nod was her first answer. "Aye, love. Alright." Alishe released the breath she had been holding and smiled once more. Her son had a name. "Now it is her turn. She needs a name too." Alishe stared down at their daughter and pondered. "Dor'ano?" Prydion watched her thoughtfully. "hmmm?" He responded as he kissed his son once more. "What was your mother's name? I cannot recall."

Prydion came to sit down on the corner of the bed, a hand resting upon Alishe's leg. "It was Kareen." He whispered with a gentle smile. "Shall we call her that Ishura? Kareen?" Alishe bit her lip and glanced at her newborn a moment before countering. "Kareelin..." He pondered over it and tried to pronounce it out a few times. "Kah REE lin, aye?" Alishe nodded and smiled softly. "What do you think?

"I like it! It fits her well." Contentment and happiness filled with Alishe. They were named. Her children were named. Her family was together and her life was rich. Prydion reached out and brushed a slight damp curl away from Alishe's face, smiling at her.

"Life with you, my Dor'ano.. has never been entirely smooth." She paused and grinned. "But I would not yield it for anything. "We live in interesting times, don't we?" He whispered to her as he gave her a look of utter adoration. "Aye." She whispered back. "And, ye have an unusual and interesting husband." Alishe could only grin at that.

"Who is rather handsome." He continued on. "And modest!" She retorted. "And quite funny." Prydion grinned. "Occasionally charming." Alishe snickered softly. "Fiery in battle. Dashing and daring." Prydion's grin just kept growing broader with every comment he made.

"Stubborn." Alishe laughed outright. "Witty and well-spoken." He countered her. She shook her head and grinned once more. "Who loves me better than I would have thought anyone could." Prydion smiled and whispered. "All things considered, ye could have done better but..." "Who challenges me to be a better woman and keeps me on my toes." Alishe interrupted him. "Not true Dor'ano. Not true." Prydion laughed. "Paws. I keep ye on ye paws." She poked him playfully.

"You are my match. The sun in my sky." They looked deeply into one another's eyes and both of them seemed to sigh happily at the same time. Prydion winked at her. "Occasionally the pain in ye bum." Alishe snickered softly. "As I am in yours." Prydion nodded affirmation and they both laughed.

"What about your wife, hmm? Let's hear you gush about her a bit." Alishe giggled and tilted her head at him. "I do always!" He pretend to protest and then nodded slowly, chuckling to himself as Alishe whispered, "Gush more!".

"Me wife?" His eyebrows raised up as he continued to grin at her. Alishe nodded in response awaiting to hear what he had to say. "Ah.. the stunningly beautiful, clever and caring woman called, 'Alishe'." He leaned over and kissed her cheek, whispering in her ear as he lingered there. "Her face, the brightest star in my sky. Her lips, like a rare and precious win. Her arms, they are my home." He leaned back and smiled at Alishe. "The woman I know in my heart loves me more than any other. And will love no other like she does me." His eyes twinkled with mischief. "The only woman I would ever agree to marry, without the tip of a sword at my throat." Alishe raised her eyebrows and then laughed. "And now... mother to me children. Most importantly..." She smiled at him and sighed contently. "The heart that walks oustide me body. I will cherish like nothing else I could ever have or want."

Prydion's hand came to rest upon Alishe's and he looked into her eyes. "Please, be with me always. And if ye cannot stand to be near me sometime? Walk away, but come back..." She bit her lip as he continued. "And be mine." Alishe's eyes filled with tears. "I am yours Dor'ano. Every day of my life. We walk together." He smiled softly at her as he whispered. "O fulo osa."

"O fulo osa, su alah'ni." She whispered back. "You complete me Ishura. In a way that no one can imagine until tis theirs." His hand gripped hers tighter. "I give meself as a gift to ye, and I ask only that you adore me always." Alishe licked her parched lips and smiled once more. "I take your gift and treasure it as I do your love. And.. most importantly..." She looked deep into her husband's eyes. "I give you.. my trust." This was huge to Alishe to finally say considering some of what they had endured before the twins were born. He recognized it and squeezed her hand again. "I will see ye I am worthy of that. And more. With each passing day, more and more me love." Prydion released Alishe's hand and lifted himself leaned over to take the cup of water from the table by the bed, offering it to Alishe.

"Drink and then rest yeself." Alishe sipped at the water and then lifted her hand to brush against Prydion's cheek, leaving it to linger there for a brief bit. Her eyes glistened over with tears. "O fulo osa. Truly." He smiled back at her. "I know, Ishura. And I love you. Always. And these two little gifts, a testament to that love." Alishe started to feel her weariness but continued to smile. "They are.. aren't they?" Prydion took the cup from her hands as she settled back into her pillows. "I'll watch over them, whilest you nap."

Alishe closed her eyes and sighed happily, quickly drifting off into slumber. Prydion brushed his hand against her cheek and lifted their daughter from her eyes, carrying both babies over to the cradle in the corner. "Rest ye well. All of ye." He whispered to all the sleepers in the room as he settled into a chair, watching them silently.
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Aug. 10th, 2006 @ 03:15 am The waking dream (Part 2)
Footsteps echoed as Alishe walked slowly through the empty cavern. In the dim light, her fingertips brushed along the rocky walls which were slighty damp with moisture. She had no idea where she was going... No, that wasn't true. She knew this path very well. She just didn't know why she was here again.

She hadn't been here since...

Before they slew the dragon. This was his domain. His hiding place. What in Elune's name was she doing here?

Her mind whirled as she continued to walk. Coming to the large open space in which pure thick darkness lay ahead. Her ragged breath echoed lightly as she shivered, wrapping her arms around herself.

"Fear doesn't suit you little one. You are not fearful. Step into the darkness, for it is the only way to see the light."

Alishe blinked even though her eyes didn't see a thing. She knew that voice. Oh, how she knew that voice. But... but.. he was dead. They had slain him. And with his death, the end of her corruption.. and the end of her child's brief existence in this world.

Fear started to become replaced with anger. It all began to bubble to the surface again. Everything she never dealt with, everything she never overcame. It flooded her senses. And as it did, the area around her became darker, almost as if a thick fog was moving in.

"Anger. Hatred. These things don't become you either. Where is the truth inside of you? Where is the druid who found peace in the midst of war?"

Alishe clenched her fist, feeling her own heartbeat speed up as she continued to fill with fury about all that the one who spoke to her now had cost her. All for saving his life as a child. Even as what limited sight Alishe had faded into nothingness, her mind continued to churn and focus upon her pain.

"You. Are. Dead." Alishe whispered through a clenched jaw. "You. Are. Dead." She repeated again, more for her own benefit than for anyone else.

"Things are not always as simple as they seem. And betrayal isn't always a vicious act of will, little one. Look beyond what you see."

"I can't see a bloody thing you deranged figment of my imagination!" Alishe shouted and her voice bounced off the cavern walls, almost hurting her ears with the intensity. The laughter that followed caused Alishe to snarl, her feral nature almost springing to the surface before she could stop it.

"When you are finished growling and getting ready to pounce at shadows, let me know. I'm here for a reason, little one. I have things to discuss with you. Important matters."

Alishe scoffed. "Nothing you have to say is important enough for me to listen to. You tormented me while you were alive. Took my life several times. Took control over me. Your corruption.. cost me the life of one of the most precious things in this world! And now you show up.. I'm here again, almost as if it never happened and you ask me to listen to you?" Alishe turned, though she wasn't sure if she was heading the right way, the air was so thick and dark, she felt horribly disoriented. "No, I will not endure this anymore. I will not listen. I will either leave or wake myself, but either way.. I will not"

"ISHURA!!!!" The voice boomed, causing the cavern to quake and Alishe to lose her balance.. falling hard upon the rocks under her. Pain seared through her knee where it made contact with a sharp edge. She closed her eyes, trying to catch her breath.

"I once warned you that a storm was coming. And you barely managed to escape it's wraith. But this time, you may not be so lucky. Fear has pushed you to do a foolish thing, little one. Very foolish indeed." The dragon's breath filled the air for a moment.. a burst of flame and smoke.

The cavern filled with light and the dragon turned his head toward her, his eyes staring into hers. "And while you stand here hating me..." He turned his giant head away and for a brief second, Alishe could have sworn she saw immense sadness in his eyes. "Your spirit is lost."

"WHAT?" Alishe blinked several times in disbelief. "You lie. You are full of lies. I don't know what trick this is, but it ends now." She turned and began to walk back down the way she came.

"There is no going back, little one. Not right now." The dragon paused for a moment. "You are lost. And unless you can find your strength, find the answers you seek so you can release yourself from this prison you've made..." Alishe swallowed hard as something in her felt the truth in his words, even if it didn't make any sense to her mind. "You. Will. Never. Go. Back."

Alishe turned slowly around, her eyes coming to meet the dragon's stare. He let out another breath, which filled the cavern with a brief flicker of intense light and smoke. "Tell me that I lie, little one. Go on." His eyes turned from hers. "Yell and get it out of your system. Curse me and scream till your voice cracks, but it will do you no good. You know what you risked by doing this and yet you still choose to go on with it." Alishe held her breath as the words echoed through the chamber and through her mind. "The question is, what will you do now?"

She took tenative steps toward the dragon with a catch in her throat. It felt hard to breathe... but then Alishe suddenly reminded herself that she wasn't breathing anymore. It wasn't real. She was not really here. She was trapped in the dream.

Trapped... with the tormentor of her soul.

"Elune, you have a sick sense of humor." Alishe thought to herself and the dragon chuckled as if she had said it outloud. Her eyes narrowed at the dragon and for a moment, she toyed with the idea of attacking him. After all, what would he do, kill her? The amused look upon the dragon's face faded away and he stared coldly at her.

"The child in you is disappointed with the woman that you've become, little one." Alishe growled. "And when you are faced with that knowledge, it will bring you back to reality." The dragon nodded to himself and turned himself around, placing his back to Alishe. "Until then, stew in your darkness, for it's what you crave the most right now." The dragon smirked. "I pity those who love you Alishe. They call for you to come back. He calls for you to return to him. Yet you would rather fight me, then fight for your life." The dragon's eyes moved down to rest upon her very swollen stomach. "And the life of the unborn."

Suddenly something fell to the ground with a metallic ping. Alishe looked down and saw Prydion's wedding ring lying there and she blinked in disbelief. Slowly she knelt down and her hand shook as she reached out. She had gone and done this, despite his pleading with her not to. If he knew that she was trapped now, how would he feel? The last thing he needed was more hardship. And yet, here it was. Brought about by Alishe's rash and hasty actions.

She squeezed the ring so tightly in her hand that she swore it started to cut into her skin. She wouldn't let him go. Somehow, she would get back to him.

Somehow...

The dark mist began to surround her again. "I leave you to your thoughts, little one." The dragon spoke as everything faded from view, save the ring in her hand, which she stared at with intensity. "Until such time as you are ready to hear all I have to say.. have the wisdom to listen and find the answers you crave and have the will to fight for what matters most."

The last thing Alishe saw.. was Prydion's wedding band.

And as the darkness closed in, a single word filled the cavern.

"Dor'ano!"
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Aug. 8th, 2006 @ 11:17 am The waking dream
"It can't be real. I have to be dreaming. Yet I'm awake!" There she stood. The place that for three nights now, she had come to see. Following some man who was familiar and yet, was not. A man with hair like her beloved Dor'ano. The dream had been so vivid on the third night that Alishe threw the covers off and immediately grabbed her armor. She had to see for herself if the dream was telling her something.

She urged Banthalos on as quickly as the tiger would take her. Following the path in her mind. Only this time, she had no guide urging her onward. The man in her dreams was not running before them. He was not glancing back to see if she still followed. Yet she still knew exactly where shew as going. The landscape simply flew by and before she knew it, she stood on the banks of the tiny island. Staring in disbelief.

"Oh bloody hell..."

Alishe reached out to touch the stone of the grave in front of her. A chill hit her spine and she bit her lip, trying desperately to shake off the dread she felt rising up within her. Ice cold. It hit her like tiny needles and she quickly jumped backward.

She blinked several times, trying to comprehend what she was seeing. She watched as a young woman ran past her, rushing toward the edge of a cliff. Her face, so familiar. The woman was obviously in pain and crying, but the cause was nothing Alishe could understand. She tried to yell or move, but could not. Instead, Alishe remained trapped in this vision, watching helplessly as the woman fell to her death.

And just as quickly, Alishe felt herself come back to where she was, her head roaring with pain. It took a few moments before she could see clearly again and she rubbed at her temple as she glanced around. "What the bloody hell was that." Her brow furrowed as she thought about what she just saw. Her stomach began to sink as she realized why she knew the face. "Tah.." Before she could finish her thought, the last bit of sunlight hit the edge of the second gravestone not far away and Alishe's eyes followed the glimmer.

"Oh Elune. It's real." Alishe's buzzbox fell to the ground, crackling and squealing loudly.

Alishe couldn't hear a thing. Her eyes locked upon the stone as she moved over to examined it closer. Her heart was beating so hard that it was difficult to breathe. Though part of it was missing, the first four letters were those etched into her mind and heart forever.

Pryd.

With all her might, she ran. Ran faster than she ever had before. The sound of her heart beating like thunder in her ears. The look on his face etched into her mind.

Answers, there were no answers. Only more questions.

The familiar sight of Moonglade whirled past her as she moved onward. It wasn't until she reached the entrance to the barrow that she began to fret. "What.. am.. I doing? Oh bloody hell. Be sure of this Alishe. Be sure of it like you have nothing else."

Her footfalls echoed as she walked, her eyes slightly blurred by the tears she refused to let fall. For them both, she had to have answers. Answers he could not get. Answers that she could not see awake.

Only by dreaming... could she understand.

"Ishura. No, I demand you stop. Do not do this!" Prydion's voice filled her buzzbox as he bellowed and pleaded with her at the same time. His voice grew softer and she could feel his fear coming through each word he spoke. "Ishura. I cannot lose you. Or the baby. Please. Stay with me."

"I cannot stand by you and endure this without answers Dor'ano." The fear was too much to bear. And the more she learned, the more fear she had. Two graves stood on the island of her dreams. One carrying the beginning of her husband's name. The other, unmarked but carrying with it the for-telling of a woman's death.

Dor'ano was connected to this. As was this other woman she barely knew. And Alishe had no answers. No understanding. Only fear.

The only thing she knew was the dreaming. And it beckoned her to it like a moth to a flame.

"Elune help me. Elune protect me. Elune protect us."

Slowly, she began the old chanting she had learned long ago. Words only uttered by those who wish to dream. And dream.. she would.

"Yours. Always yours." Alishe whispered to Prydion in her mind, as she drifted away.
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Jul. 23rd, 2006 @ 05:34 am A pensive mind and a hopeful heart..
The little one woke me from my sleep yet again. These late night beatings that she seemingly must give my insides is enough to drive me mad! I try to sing a little, hoping the the vibration of my voice would soothe her into resting with me, but oh no. She will not have it. Whenever I lay down, tis time for her to kick and squirm like never before!

Rest. I'm starting to wonder what it is.

And yet, I've been told.. by those who have parented before me, that this is all part of readying yourself for the sleep you will not get once the baby is born. And I have to ask myself..

Am I really ready for this?

Elune, I hope so. No, I know I am. It is Dor'ano that I hope is truly ready. He says he is, but as of late he's been acting so bloody strangely that I don't know.. what to think.

Only a few days ago, the man I love nearly broke my heart and for a brief moment in time, I considered a life without him in it. I don't know what overcame me. Save for fear. Fear is a powerful enemy. And sometimes I wonder if it is not more powerful than any of the wretched beings that we fight against so often.

But I must not let fear win. I will not let fear win.

There she goes again. Bloody hell, I wonder if this child will ever rest when she comes into this world?

I sit and watch Dor'ano sleep. He looks so peaceful now, but something keeps causing me to stare at him. Almost as if I'm searching for something in his face. In his eyes. But for what I cannot say.

Mayhaps it's just a sense of security in a time when nothing seems truly secure. I feel more awkward and fragile now than ever I did before. And I hate admitting that and I will not do so to Dor'ano. Or anyone else for that matter. I am slowly watching my feet disappear from view, blocked by this large belly I continue to grow at an ever increasing rate.

Dor'ano is right. I fret too much.

No.... It is as I told him.

I fret... exactly.. as much as I should.
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Jun. 22nd, 2006 @ 03:03 pm Trolls and Tigers and Hakkar, oh my!
((You can't keep a good druid down I guess. *slight grin* Yes... that's right kiddies. I'm back. ;) ))

So life moves at a bit slower pace than it used to, but the call and need for those willing to fight for what matters most is stronger now than ever before. I had told myself that my focus needed to be upon protecting the growing life within my womb, but as I see the world around me change and twist, I realize that if I do not continue to heal and fight against the true evils in this world, there won't be much of a life to give our family.

It is a risk. And I'm well aware of just what it is that I'm putting in danger. But it must be done. And somehow, deep down.. I feel more content knowing that I am not sitting by and allowing everyone else to fight alone.

For weeks, I dreamt about Zul'Gurub. At first, I thought mayhaps that I was just focusing so much on that place because of my deep seeded fear that Dor'ano's cooking would turn me into one of those big nasty bloody trolls that I cannot stand looking at. But the dreams persisted. I would wander around that place, searching. For what, I couldn't decide. I even thought that maybe I was just searching for those that I care for. Dor'ano who has traveled there often without me and I even wondered if it was he that I was seeking. But the search seemed... different somehow.

The jungle consumed my thoughts and not even my garden would give me distraction as it once did.

I slowly pulled out my armor and looked it over, my fingers brushing along my dagger which gleamed in the sunlight. Dor'ano watched me silently and I could see the worry and concern in his eyes. However, deep down he knows that this is what must be done. We are both warriors. And naught will change that. Not even the family we both long for. We must keep the fires burning and we must face the challenges life places in our way.

The next time our friends adventured into that forsaken troll domain, I was with them. My stomach a flutter with nerves and my mind whirling with fret and worry. Was I doing the right thing? Would I end up drowning in regret? How could I take such a risk?

But the further we traveled, the more I knew that I was doing the right thing. I felt it with every fiber of my being.

I was where I belonged.

And the silent search continued. I was awake, but I was still looking for some elusive thing which I could not place a name upon. And it was haunting me. Weeks went by and I continued to enter and leave the jungle wondering just what was behind this driving need to be there.

Then last week, the dream came again. Only this time, it was more vivid than any before it. I stood before a group of tigers, who were snarling and growling at me. But none approached. They narrowed their feline eyes and paced almost as if they were bound in some cage I could not see. I should have been horribly frightened and yet I was not. These cats were beautiful and I have always had much respect for them and their power. They are not all that unlike the sabers that my people have learned to ride and hunt with. However, on a very base level, these cats hold more ferocious energy and power than I have ever seen in any saber I've ever encountered. Even my own precious Emaulde, who was the very first saber I ever rode.

I glanced around and saw a tiger wandering down a path. He turned his head to me and I saw no hostility there. It shocked me a little. With a twist of his long stripped tail, he broke his contact with me and walked forward, almost beckoning me to follow. All the while, the cats that were threatening me from not so far away, continued their dance of warning.

"Talah" I called. My beautiful stallion did not respond. He never resisted my call and was always there when I needed him. I couldn't help but frown. Where was he?

And the tiger walked on.

I could hear him purring in my mind.

Silently I began to move, my feet taking me down this path after a tiger who could easily tear my heart out if he wanted. And yet, I was not afraid. He paused before me and I quickly caught up to him. I bit my lip and held my breath as I approached. I knew I was doing something exceedingly dangerous. And that is when he turned. Not as quickly as I've seen the tigers change course when they are about to strike, no.. this was different. Instead of taking me by surprise and going in for the kill, the tiger... laid down on the ground before me. A roaring purr filling my mind.

That's when I woke up.

It was time again to travel to the jungle. I kept pondering my dream. What could it have meant? I had this weird feeling deep within me and it almost kept me from going, but I knew something would happen there that night. Something that would change me.

We fought hard that night. Overcoming whatever challenges the trolls tried to place before us. Overcoming the very jungle itself, which seemed to be at the beck and call of Hakkar. And when we approached a group of tigers, I felt myself catch my breath. We would fight the priest of these beasts. What the trolls referred to as their "loa". A demigod of sorts who represented all that these beasts were about. And we were to slay him.

My throat was dry and I was sweating horribly. Why was I so nervous? I kept telling myself to get a grip, but something was continuing to nag at me.

The battle was fierce. One of the most intense I have witness in that place. But together, we worked as one. And like a storm, our energy could not be stopped. And the tiger loa fell to the ground with a giant thud. But before he did.. I hear his voice in my mind.

"You have earned a protector, Alishe Na'shaile. Prove your worth that you deserve such a reward."

I looked around, but realized quickly that the voice had not come from any of my companions. I stared blankly at the corpse laying before me. Trying to decipher exactly what to think of this final message.

Then I heard the gasps.

A giant tiger came forth from the shadows and walked toward us. A few prepared for battle, but most just stared in disbelief. He was beautiful. He was amazingly strong. And he was.. heading straight for me! And there, I stood.. unable to move. Almost unable to breathe. His strides brought him across the distance between us in no time flat. I saw Dor'ano move to stand before me, but I raised my hand to him.

"No Dor'ano. It is alright. O fulo osa." It was about all I could manage at that moment.

The world stood still as the amazing beast stood in front of me. His eyes locked upon mine and I could actually feel his breath upon my face. With one motion, I would be gone. That's all it would take for him to finish me. Yet, he did not attack. Instead, he made a motion... which shocked us all.

The giant head lowered in a gesture of submission. This beast was offering himself to me. I blinked a few times trying to decide if mayhaps I was dreaming again and didn't realize it. His head remained exactly where it was and almost involuntarily, my hand reached toward him. I am pretty sure that everyone was holding their breath as I was right then. Scared for me, uncertain what would happen next and anxious to understand exactly what was happening.

Soft fur brushed against my fingertips and the tiger made no motion, save for a deep rumble which came forth, indicating pleasure. He was purring. Loudly.

And that was.. that. I had been chosen by this magnificent animal to be borne upon his back. And the honor of that still awes me deeply.

My Talah has been missing since the tiger appeared and as much as I miss him, I have to wonder if mayhaps it was for a reason. Maybe somehow Talah knew that I was meant to be with my.. protector and didn't want me to feel guilt in that. Just as Emaulde was content to roam Ashenvale without me when Talah came along. I do believe that we shall see each other again. When the time is right. I hope anyway.

Dor'ano and I discussed what I would call my new companion. And I went through many words in Darnassian which I felt might fit him. In the end, the word for protector seemed to be what fit the best. And when I first called him "Banthalos", it seemed like his eyes lit up in a way I had never seen. And the purr that he emitted was so loud that I almost thought people for miles would be able to hear it.

Elune has blessed me greatly. And I feel more strongly than ever, that Banthalos is a sign that I am doing what I should be. Continuing to fight as best I am able, for as long as I am able.
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May. 8th, 2006 @ 07:00 pm The garden in bloom.
A few days from now will be my anniversary. The day that changed my life forever. A simple walk to the park which resulted in Dor'ano and I becoming husband and wife. A secret that we tried to keep for almost two months. And it would take me another almost two weeks to get a proposal and ring out of the man I called "su alah'ni".

A man who has made me incredibly happy. Who has challenged me to be a better woman and who has frustrated me beyond what all I could possibly write here. Yet, I adore him beyond all others. And that shall never change.

My life has changed much in this past year and I find myself so drawn to the quiet comfort of our house here in Ashenvale. My fingers are forever covered in dirt from the garden that I tend as often as Dor'ano allows. I've found that many things refuse to grow in the soil here, but it doesn't stop me from trying. I am determined and stubborn like that.

No longer does my path seem to lead me to the restless travels that I once thought would never end. Instead, I wake up with only sore muscles that I earned from toiling the earth and a house filled with the scent of incredible food which my love seems to never tire of making. I'm surprise I'm not the size of one of those nasty trolls in Zul'Gurub with the way he feeds me!

As difficult as it has been to not travel with those I call friend, I welcome them when they come to visit us and I cannot help but feel content in the path I have choosen here. Even though it comes with regret of not caring for all those that I once did. Instead, I must trust their care to others.

Even my precious Dor'ano. When he must travel when I cannot.

For I know now that I carry something precious which must be guarded and protected beyond all else. And while I do not crave the sweet rolls I did before, it is obvious.. to me at least, that a long held wish has been granted.

Dor'ano does not know yet and I keep thinking that my hand upon my belly and my knowing smiles will tell the tale to him without me saying a word, but not as of yet. I think he is still convinced that I complain of my tightened robes because of his cooking.

Soon, I'll share the news. I just fear letting him down.. if Elune forbid something should happen. No, I must not think of such things. Though I cannot help but fear. And fear I have plenty of.

Another letter arrived the other day from Meep. Telling us tales of her travels and explorations. How strong she's grown since the little girl I met in Ironforge! I almost wish we still lived in the house that we shared with her there. So that I could go and place my hand against that scroched wall.. just to feel her close. I miss her beyond what I can say but am happy in knowledge that she is with her mother and that they are seeing so much with one another.

I cannot wait until I can share such news with her as well. I hope she will be excited.

The old ways still hold fast to me and I find it difficult to fight back the desire to go and fight just one more battle. Though, I feel that for now, my path must keep me here. I must protect what I've started here. That is the most important battle I can fight.

And hopefully when the time is right... When Dor'ano and I have seen the fruit of this labor brought forth safely, then I can venture forth once again.

I hope. I truly do.

Elune guide my path and keep my family safe. Keep the family of friends whom I treasure much safe as well. And never let any of them doubt how much they mean to me.

That would be my prayer.

((*takes a deep breath*

After a lot of long hard thinking, I have decided that Alishe will be going into a retirement of sorts. She is not gone and I may very well pop in from time to time, but for the most part, she will be enjoying her life in Ashenvale and being quiet.

This has not been an easy decision for me.

I love the character that I've helped to create. I treasure the people who have helped to influence who she is and who have impacted her life and mine. The path might be parting, but I take you with me.

And I will come home again.

*grateful hugs to everyone*

~ The girl behind Alishe Na'shaile))
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Mar. 17th, 2006 @ 08:54 am Just breathe..
I can feel their webs upon my skin still. I've taken three baths and still the sensation remains. It makes me shudder and feel ill to think about.

Slowly encasing me and covering my mouth, causing me to struggle for breath. The fear that I would never see the light of day again. Until finally I fought my way free, only to be covered by the webs yet again.

I hate spiders. No, really. When I am forthright honest about it, I hate them. I have always struggled with a discomfort for the beasts, even when they caused me no threat. Something about their way of walking, their multiple eyes. I.. don't.. know. I just. Ick.

When I started my training, I had to endure traveling through a cave filled with spiders. I cannot begin to express what a difficult thing this was for me. To go into their territory and have to try to retrieve an egg of their spawn.

I almost refused.

But a sense of duty made me go forward. And since then, I have faced many a spider in combat. But never like this. Never did they wrap me up and cause me such horror.

I almost screamed once. My mind couldn't handle what was happening to me. I just wanted it to stop. I wanted to collapse to my knees and not move. I wanted to close my eyes and wish it all away.

But again, duty kept me going. I had a duty to my companions to keep them alive in the midst of heated battle. And despite the inward screaming of my soul at enduring such horrific things, I kept going. Because it's my duty as a healer to do so. To give of myself. To push myself beyond my own boundaries and do whatever it takes.

Even if it means I must be encased in a spider web with venom flowing through my veins.

I was very restless last night and Dor'ano tried his best to comfort me and soothe my anxious mind. I know he did not rest very well himself fretting after me. Just when I managed to finally release my memories enough to fall asleep, I had the most awful nightmare which made me awake with a start.

We will go back there again I fear.

And I will have to find my strength to handle that.

To handle whatever may come.
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Mar. 3rd, 2006 @ 06:09 am A little ale can be a dangerous thing..
Never thought a mug of ale could change my life..

But it has.

And by accepting it, I have changed my path and joined it with others. I feel so many emotions at this moment. Some good. Some not so.. good.

I fought with my Dor'ano tonight. It was quite nasty I might add. Downright hurtful. I can only hope that once he realizes what I've done tonight, he will not go against what he said when our fight was finished. That he will find a way to support me as he said he would. Even if he does not agree.

He still believes.. truly believes.. in the corruption of the ideal of a guild and showed no restraint in telling me this yet again.

He fears I will be hurt.

Our fight was ended when I brought up the conversation I had with Aurora when I told her I wanted to marry Dor'ano. She questioned how I could be happy with the idea of a potential short life with my husband and the eventual heartbreak that would come from losing him.

I would rather follow my happiness and treasure it while I can then to not have it at all.

And this feels right for me. Right now. In this place. My feet have led me here.

As much as I fear the upset of my sisters, I can only pray that deep down, their love for me and desire to see me happy will be their guiding force. And that they will find a way to accept my decision to be a part of this family just as I will always be a part of theirs. They are my sisters, always and forever and I treasure them dearly. More than either of them will ever know in fact.

That is the weight that pulls this happiness downward.

But the deed is done. I have taken the mug and I've drank from it.

Ceil suggested that I wear naught but my tabard when I tell Dor'ano the news. Sad to say, I'm actually considering that notion. I can only imagine his reaction.

What a mixture it would be.

Aye. Indeed.
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Mar. 1st, 2006 @ 03:31 am A restless night..
The wind blows softly against my cheek as I sit down to write in this long neglected journal of mine. I stared at the paper for a while, and held this pen in my hand, almost as if I forgot how to use it. So long has it been since I placed my innermost thoughts here. So long has it been since I've shared my life. So much has happened and yet it's all been locked away inside my mind.

The one certainty in this life is that change is ever present. Again, as in the life of the plants that I love and treasure so much. The seed grows and blossoms. When the time is right, it is plucked from the soil and used.

That is the constant. That life will go on. That change will happen.

I have been changed by what has happened in my life. In some ways... twisted into darkness and in other ways, lifted into the light.

I have lost. I have loved. I have learned, changed and grown from the girl I used to be. I am no longer naive about many things I used to be. And deep down, despite all the disappointment and heartache, I can see my hope. It is very distant from me, but calls out when I am able to listen. Someday, it will be with me again.

I believe that. I do.

When I find myself restless at night, I often take walks. Sometimes just around the harbor, where I find a quiet spot to watch the ocean waves ebb and flow. Taking my thoughts and cares away with them as I ponder to myself. I miss the arms of my precious Dor'ano, but I fear my restlessness would wake him. And I would rather my love slept deeply then to disturb his slumber even a little.

In the desire to find my own path, I have made very difficult decisions. Some of which have hurt those whom I love. Namely my sisters. Thankfully Aurora and I have found one another again and are finding solace in our caring for one another, despite the distance we have between us. Which is ironic considering how distant she used to be. But my twin. The one with whom I shared a womb, does not seem to be desiring my thoughts or caring at all. She harbors anger and lashes out in little ways which cut me to the bone. I should confront her, but I never do. For I feel I deserve the hurt she gives me. Even though deep down, that's not entirely true.

I tried to followed the path which was right for me. Admittedly, I got lost in the heat of battle and the desire to save as many souls as I could. Those which I have called friends and who have been my almost constant companions for all these long months now have been my focus and with them, I have seen many amazing things accomplished. I cannot regret this. I cannot feel ashamed, nor will I.

Tonight, I found myself in Stormwind, far from home and the bed of my beloved. I know not what drew there, only that I followed some whim. An instinct that took hold of me and my feet. I wandered the streets, listening to conversations and watching those who wandered past. And I wondered... would any of us truly be content? If all war were to stop and peace took hold, would we be content in it? Or has war and fighting taken hold of us so deeply that we do not know how to live without it's ever constant presence in our lives?

I have always considered myself a healer. But tonight I wondered.. for I have done this for so long now. Sought battles and fought foes and.. healed the scars of battle.. what would I do if not this? Who would I be if not the druid that I am?

My ponderings led me straight down a road where I came across Ceil. Someone I have not seen in quite a while. Our last conversation was tense and much has passed since then. I have heard many things about Ceil and about Uthas.

Uthas....

No, I mustn't think about him again. It does me no good. I hear so much darkness and hatred toward a man that I truly loved. Not as I love my Dor'ano, but as one loves a true friend.

Anyway.. I greeted Ceil and I told her that I was glad to see her, which seemed to surprise her a little. But no matter what has been said, I don't know the truth of it for myself. I will not pass judgment. I will not condemn. I will stay true to the instincts I hold within myself.

And I... will... follow my own path.

Lest I cease to be.. me.

Tarquin invited me inside the tavern where there were several others gathered. I felt a bit out of place but couldn't place the reason behind the feeling. Until talk started of the guild they were rebuilding from the ashes of the Greymane Exiles. A guild I had always respected, but never been a true part of, despite having been asked to join. I had my reasons for holding off.

Mainly.. my sisters. I feared their disappointment. For deep down, they both believe that I will come back to the guild which I helped to found. But that is not home for me anymore. And I hold no ill will about that. Nor does it mean I think less of them or those who carry the banner since I've been gone. I'm proud of my time spent there, but I walk a different path now.

A path which has led me back to those with whom I sat with tonight. As each member at the table took hold of a tabard, I found myself fretting and my mind swirled. I felt as if I were out of place and ended up excusing myself from the room.

Ceil followed me.

To put it simply, I was asked to be a part of their family. And while my heart jumped at the offer and I was flattered, not to mention deeply honored.. I hesitated.

I can hear my Dor'ano now.. going on about guild politics and whatnot. How he'd rant and rave about it. There would be no end to it if I were to walk into our home with a tabard upon my chest. There would be question from others and concern from myself over what it would all mean. Not to mention my sisters. Again, they fill my thoughts. And I fret for how they would feel if I followed this path.

For someone who always followed her own path, I spend much time thinking about how each step affects others these days. Fretting over causing more hurt.

And now.. here I sit, outside my mother's house, listening to night and the gentle sound of her breathing as she she sleeps. I did not tell her my burden, but she could see that something was troubling me. Yet, my mother has long since learned that I share what I wish and she never presses for more than I desire to give her. Something I treasure about her.

I cannot say what she would think of my dilemma, but I feel strongly that she would want me to follow my own spirit. Where ever it would take me.

The question is.. do I have the courage to do so?

Only time will tell.

Only time.
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Jan. 26th, 2006 @ 01:05 am ((Gnomish footsteps on my heart..))
This is all ooc.. I'm going to attempt to write about someone who touched my life not only as a friend but who portrayed characters that I truly loved.

I had the unique privilege of watching the character known as Meep grow up. She made a huge impact on Alishe and on me, from the very moment we met. A little gnome wandering around the noisy chaos of Ironforge, obviously lost. She wasn't playing a cutesy gnome as some do, this was truly a child. Every expression, every emote. It was a child coming through and the way she brought Meep to life was truly.. like breathing air into her.

Alishe couldn't ignore her. I couldn't ignore her. It took Alishe becoming a cat and purring at the small child to get her to calm enough for Alishe to speak to her. It was natural to Alishe as if a mothering instinct took hold and drove her actions.

From then on, Alishe and Meep were linked to one another. Meep would often be in Alishe's thoughts and it made her day for Meep to tell her of her travels. Meep wasn't even 10 seaons along when she and Alishe joined up to spend time with one another in Dun Morogh. Meep chittered on and on and Alishe listened with great intent. And me, I sat back in awe of the amazing rper I was watching perform.. just for me.

Alishe has a bunny named Nigel. There was a time when Alishe was rarely seen without him. He was a great confort to her and it was her thought that Meep needed a companion as well. Meep spoke about her desire for a bunny that the ranch hands raised in Amberstill and well, it wasn't long before Alishe and Meep went traveling over.. Alishe with an agenda that she did not share until she placed the box into Meep's hands.

I had no idea that a bunny could be used the way Meep used Hope. You see so many people with pets, it becomes almost.. mundane. But it wasn't to Meep. Hope was her best friend.. and in time.. became a huge part of her roleplay. And again, I watched in awe as she came up with storylines and segways that I found incredibly clever.

She asked me what I thought about Hope being what she eventually had him become. I told her she had to go with what felt right to her. She was concerned that people would think she was god-modding and that they'd give her a hard time. I told her that I would support her. That I looked forward to seeing where she took things.

Prydion and I watched as Meep went from a timid shy child to a confident and capable young lady. She roleplayed her inability to control fire at first and explained with amazing skill how she learned to conquer it. Alishe and Prydion had a scorched wall to show for it, but that never bothered them.

Alishe and Prydion loved Meep. And she came to them at a time when they needed her most. They had just gone through the loss of their baby and their hearts were shattered. Here was a child who took a place in their lives and hearts and gave them hope.

One of my fondest memories thinking back was a night when Alishe and Prydion tucked in Meep and Hope when it was time for bed. It was just like any typical night in a household with a young child. So not your typical roleplay, but endearing. I could just about see Meep jumping on the bed and nearly knocking Hope off with her bouncy energy. (And speaking of jumping. Remembering the first time Meep showed off her slow fall to Alishe! She gave her a heartattack! *laughs softly*)

The house in Ironforge will never be the same to me.

I want to go back there.. sit Alishe down.. and see if I can find some.. any trace of Meep there. I know she's not there.. but I can't help but wish she'd appear. Giggling and bubbly.

I also had great opportunity of roleplaying with Reeza as well. I remember an event where she and I were trying to figure out how to rp a fight between Alishe and Reeza. It was a challenge to say the least. We knew how we wanted it to come out, but we both laughed as we weren't sure what would happen as we had never dueled before. In the end, Alishe won and actually killed Reeza. (I'm not quite sure we planned that. But we rolled with it. *hehe*)

She loved surprises and encouraged open roleplay. We rarely scripted our interaction with Meep and it was the way we all enjoyed it. She was always respectful with her storylines and tried to work around everyone's mood and availability.

However... Meep got into trouble.

That's an understatement. *laughs* I swear that the child's middle name was trouble. She would just follow her curiosity and end up in some horrid predicaments. It was a challenge for me to find a way to rp out the maternal bond that Alishe had to Meep along with balancing the adventures that I took Alishe on as well.

In the end, the corruption took hold of Reeza and she left Meep in the hands of Alishe and Prydion. Asking them to adopt Meep and care for her. This meant so much to Alishe. It was a bit mind blowing for me as a roleplayer to have someone give me that much of a part of their character's life. But she did it. And I enjoyed it. Very much.

Sometimes our interaction would be behind the scenes. And in my mind, I saw a lot of wonderful moments where Meep and Alishe would be running around the yard of their house in circles. Meep giggling as Alishe chased her in cat form. Alishe telling Meep stories about the place she grew up and the two of them sharing alchemy experiments. All the while Prydion looking on and grinning. Stopping them to share some long tale that he thought Meep should hear.

I saw a lot of family moments that no one ever got to see.

It's sad to me that most people never got to see the side of Meep that I did. That for the most part, the memories I have of Meep's earliest days aren't shared with anyone other than Prydion. Some of the most brillant and creativie roleplaying I've ever witnessed came from Meep during that phase. And honestly, I wish more people had been able to have the opportunity to see the family that Meep had in Alishe and Prydion and likewise, the family they had in Meep. This is not to make my participation in this to be bigger than it was, but it really was rather unique and wonderful.

When I can think clearly.. I plan to write out the last adventure that Alishe, Prydion and Meep had together. Most of it is not entirely solid in my mind, but I'll do my best to give it justice. Because it's special to me. And instead of remembering what I didn't do.. or focusing upon what I didn't say.. I'm going to keep my mind upon that day. That adventure. That time spent with her. Meep the character and my wonderful friend, whom I'm going to miss terribly.

What I'm recalling here about the character, doesn't begin to touch the surface of the friend I had. There was so much more to her. So many intricacies that I never go to know. And I can only imagine what a tremendously amazing person she had to have been through and through. Because she left her mark. And I'm never going to be the same. But I'm so thankful to have known her. I truly am.
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