The Mark Has Been Made [Fel-Sworn] [Complete]

[Torches]

The Mark Has Been Made

Prelude:

The Sunwell's destruction proved to be a painful experience for all the blood elves. The unending thirst painstakingly amplified, and with it came no exceptions. Many sustained their addiction, but many also became twisted shadows of their former selves. Those who followed the same route as Caidrah became reliant on fel magic; the first taste of fel energies sated their thirst unlike any other magic. Following the Prince's end, Caidrah became much more of an aimless wanderer - with no home to return to, and no master to answer to she felt utterly lost.

Years passed and the wandering became increasingly tedious, although Outland has its abundance of demons and souls, it was simply never enough. A part of her died the day Kael'thas was betrayed, and it was a part of her she wanted to revitalise.

Part I: Friends and Foes.

The Prince's motives were clearly not favoured by all. Due to Voren'thal's influence many of the Prince's followers became turncoats; most notably Kael'thas' brightest magisters and scholars. Despite the Sunfury's inevitable failure, there were those who remained loyal to the true King of Quel'Thalas even after his death, these believers were spaced out across Azeroth and Draenor. Arcanist Syrael was one of few remaining blood elves Caidrah worked alongside during the Sunfury's reign over Netherstorm. Although they were never particularly close, they crossed paths once again, and soon held a private meeting within the Ghostlands where they discussed the makings of a new chapter.

"Let's try to keep this conversation fast paced, Syrael. I do have business to attend to."

"As do I, my dear." Syrael chuckled softly. "You have my attention, Caidrah."

"Very good." She briefly rubbed her hands together, as she took in a deep breath before she continued. "My interests lie in gathering the remnants of the Sunfury, to carry out the Prince's will and to bring glory to our peoples' name once again. My dream is to cease this ridiculous partnership with the savages, and to grant the Sin'dorei the independence and the power we so crave."

Syrael quietly rubbed his chin in a moment of contemplation. "Ah, I agree. But what of the Alliance? Surely they wouldn't allow these plans to unfold."

"What of them? Whilst we muster our strength, they will be too preoccupied with their pointless feud; let them obliterate each other, and once we flourish, we will execute the remnants. It is a simple plot, there is no need for us to worry ourselves over potential ruin."

"And where do you plan on housing this army? Surely they will notice an uprising in activity, if you were to reside in Silvermoon."

"I plan on following in our esteemed Prince's footsteps, if Outland were to allow us a place of refuge." Caidrah said rather calmly as she fiddled with a lock of orange hair.

Syrael gazed upon her as he thought deeply, as if he was attempting to discern a certain trait within her. "... Yes, I may assist you Caidrah, but know this," he became a little hesitant, as he spread his hand across the lower half of his face. "Many of our former members betrayed us, living the lives of pretenders."

"Pretenders?" Caidrah scowled, she adopted an angered, rough tone. "What do they hope to gain from falsifying their lives; what is it they seek from siding with these mongrels?"

"This..." Syrael shook his head, "This I cannot tell you, Caidrah, for even I couldn't possibly begin to understand them. But let us not wallow in their failure. I presume you'd like to know the names and whereabouts of these former members?"

"Please." She nodded, her anger noticeably began to subside.

Syrael cleared his throat. "Very well, there are only two who I'm currently aware of, although whether or not their situation has altered I couldn't tell you. I'll begin with Talarion, who now serves Silvermoon as a Blood Knight. If I recall correctly he regularly patrols these Ghostlands in search of the wandering undead. Once loyal to our Prince during reign, although Talarion never rendezvoused with his forces in Outland."

"And you believe he may be convinced?" Caidrah arched a brow, she was still fiddling with that same lock of hair.

"I never mentioned whether I believe he can or not, I'm certain you can determine that for yourself. The next is Zhaidra; a warlock, like yourself, although nobody knows of her whereabouts. I do suspect that she may be roaming the Blasted Lands."

"I see, why would she--"

From Tranquilien descended a lone Blood Knight, at first he didn't notice either of them, before his gaze snapped to the robed pair. His cautious eyes darted about, scanning either side of the path for any possible traps.

"Is everything all right down there?" He called out as he made his way down the hill.

"Yes, everything is fi--"

"Good, good. Try to stick to the road, there's been an increase in undead sightings as of late." He nodded. This paladin was overly sure of himself. One needn't look further than his smug little grin, his overdone hairstyle and his ridiculous posture to be able to tell that he's seething with arrogance.

"Yes, let's get to the point. Is your name Talarion?" Caidrah gave the Blood Knight a rather bored gaze.

"I'm afraid this is not Talarion, my dear." Syrael smirked.

"I'm afraid to inform you that I am not Talarion, madam. I believe he's currently out on patrol, but then, I'm a lot nicer than he is." He winked.

She rolled her eyes, disregarding his flirtatious efforts. "Would you be able to pass on a message?"

"You're no fun. Very well, then, what would you like me to tell him?"

"Tell him that I am interested in meeting him at Fairbreeze village, I'd also like you to tell him that I am a friend of Syrael's, so he does take the message more seriously than he would otherwise."

The Blood Knight stared at Caidrah for a while, "All right, I'll pass on this message to Talarion. I must continue my patrol for the time being, however." He waves to the pair as he continues down the path, "Farewell, and be safe."

Caidrah gives the back of the Blood Knight's head a cold glare."... I suppose we have discussed all we need to for the time being, Syrael. All we can do now is wait."

"Indeed. Since you have located your first target, I will be in Silvermoon. If you require my assistance, you know where to find me. Goodbye for now Caidrah." Syrael bowed his head.

They both went their separate ways for the time being. Caidrah waited patiently at Fairbreeze village for a couple of hours, before Talarion arrived. It was obvious he was a Blood Knight; he wore the traditional black and red body armour, he even wore the tabard. Although he has one of those smug little grins plastered onto his face; dripping with arrogance - self-certainty, but, don't they all? They all become over-confident, and they all have a tendency to have that ridiculous strutting gait.

"I presume you are Talarion."

"You presume correctly, Caidrah." Talarion extended a plated hand forward, giving her an utterly false grin.

Caidrah eyed his gesture, but chose not to react to it. Instead she chose to walk, she gestured for Talarion to follow. "If I have your full attention, I'd like to ask you a rather important question. I heard you used to serve Prince Kael'thas."

"Why, yes. Of course I did, in fact, most of us did didn't we?" Talarion chuckled to himself loudly, "I heard about his betrayal, how he plotted to reward himself and not us. He promised us a 'golden destiny?' Rubbish."

"I regret to inform you, those of you who couldn't make it to Outland were only the insignificant - you are a stain on our peoples' name. If you were too pathetic to make it to the rest of us, that is entirely your own failure." Caidrah clearly wasn't amused, her fists clenched tightly as she continued to glare at Talarion.

"What?" Talarion narrowed his eyes. "Are you a fool, Caidrah? You believe in a man who sought all of us dead, for his own personal gain? It seems to me you're just as much a traitor as your beloved little Prince. Why don't you jump back down that hole you crawled out of?" Talarion gives another smug grin.

"Traitor? The only traitor here is you, Talarion." Caidrah's fingertips lit up with fel flames as Talarion's eyes widened in fear.

"Me? Hah! Y--... N-no, no, no. Stop. I order you to s-stop." His arrogant demeanour plummeted, he raised both of his hands to pathetically defend himself, as he stuttered and he cowered.

"Now this is exciting. With your shroud of falsity lifted, your glorious true self is finally revealed to all. No longer covered by layers upon layers of lies." Caidrah was enjoying every minute of it, as her fingers remained lit. "I should have known you sided with these mongrels; you are driven by cowardice, you turncoat to the winning side in order to provide yourself with safety."

"No-ooo! Stop! I wi--aieee!" As Talarion dragged his plated knees across the dirt, Caidrah looked down upon him hatefully. Fortunately, this meeting was well timed, as they were also shrouded by the cover of night. As Talarion grovelled before Caidrah, she could take his pettiness no longer; a chaos bolt connected with Talarion's face.

"M-make it stop! It b-burns! It buuurns!" Charred flesh began to flake, he tried to recuperate from the attack, before he was instantaneously engulfed in flames. He lied helpless, his body spasmed as he was within an inch of his life.

"... Such is fate. A pity, I thought you'd prove to be more of a challenge." Caidrah outspread her hand and began to extract the Blood Knight's soul, as he writhed in pain, it only took a couple of minutes before his lifeless corpse slumped to the ground.

When dawn broke, all that was found was the charred remains of Talarion. Caidrah was nowhere to be seen, and the authorities knew near to nothing about her. They soon began their search around Quel'Thalas, searching for one who matched her appearance that night.

[Torches]

Part II: Nostalgia

The addiction to fel blood is considered highly addictive as well as corruptive. The recipient will go to extremities in order to sate their addiction, even if this included undignified acts, simply to get what they desire.

"... Booty Bay, what a bore." Caidrah muttered to herself as she quietly sat down at a table in the Salty Sailor tavern, she listened in on the surrounding conversations. She knew what her duties were, although finding Zhaidra has proven to be a difficult task. A few hours of relaxation couldn't deter her from her ambitions, afterall.

Caidrah didn't care much for the emotional display in the tavern, thus she felt the need to leave. As she was walking through Booty Bay, despite the downpour of rain, she noticed she suddenly began breaking out into a sweat. Her blood began to boil as she became increasingly frustrated, her head became filled with schizophrenic nonsense as her heart began to pound.

"When was the last time you gorged yourself on that which you desire?"

Her mind clicked. Within an instant, she knew that she needed to feed on more fel blood. The familiar sensation of her throat feeling parched, the uncomfortable lump welling up in the middle of her throat. Its sensation similar to that of phlegm. Feeble attempts at expectorating this foreign lump resulted in nothing, she knew that all she could do at this moment in time is press on, and hope to reach her lair as quickly as possible.

"... L-leave me a-a-a... alone. Stop t-talking to m-me..." She groaned weakly, the voices still toying with her mind, partly aware that it was in fact her own mind.

"You need to hurry, you need to run. Caiiiidrah. You need it. You need it. Need it. Need it."

Caidrah began to twitch, she clawed at her own face as the urge to gorge herself on fel blood became unbearable. She continued to drag herself through the heavy downpour of rain, being eyed by passersby for her indistinguishable rambling.

"... Z-zhaidra, whe--... where are you? F-feed... blood..."

"You need to appease your appetite. Appease it! Relish, yesss, relish. It will only get worse, you will gradually become weaker, weaker and weaker."

"... N-no no... L-leave... m-me..." She couldn't keep herself up any longer, her hunger for fel blood overwhelmed her, and the result was that she collapsed in the middle of Stranglethorn Vale.

How long she passed out for would be a question left unanswered, but during the time she was unconscious she had a peculiar dream. Reliving the destruction of Kirin'Var village; a moment Caidrah cherished, a moment where Kael'thas was victorious. She felt overjoyed, but it soon altered, Kirin'Var village became a war torn Silvermoon, and in this dream Kael'thas was alive. If she didn't know otherwise, this dream seemed more like a premonition than a simple dream, she felt a prolonged moment of euphoria. However, Caidrah soon realised that she wasn't one of her own, she realised that she viewed Silvermoon from the eyes of the Scourge. Unwillingly tearing through the many high elves, enduring the shrill sounds of their terrified screams, she began to feast upon their remains. Her stomach churned, sickness washed over her as she killed man, woman and child. As she approached herself in her dream, she woke up.

Caidrah was laid upon a stone slab, shivering. The downpour of rain drummed against the stained glass window of this hovel. Her addiction had already mysteriously subsided, although incredibly exhausted and still disturbed by her horrific dream. Rickety floorboards creaked as she gradually staggered over them.

"... Is anybody here?"

There was no response. She briefly studied the various portraits mounted upon the walls, she listened to the howling wind as it echoed throughout the chimney. She drew back a ragged curtain to peer around the corner only to find a lit candle and a variety of papers. Someone lives here, a rescuer of some sort, a saviour...

"Anybody?"

... What if it is a human?

The silence began to unnerve her, although what unnerved her the most was the race of her 'saviour.' She couldn't afford to be rescued by a human of all things. A vile, disgusting insect. Completely inferior to the Sin'dorei. What broke the silence was the abrupt creaking of the door, as it swung open, a female blood elf dressed in a hooded black cloak stepped through.

"... You're finally awake."

"Who are you?" Caidrah narrowed her eyes, warily taking a step back.

"I wanted to ask you the exact same question; it's not often I encounter one such as yourself in Stranglethorn Vale." She drew back the hood of her cloak, smiling to her for a split second.

"What, do you expect me to thank you? I never needed your help to begin with."

"On the contrary, I believe you did. Since you are apparently unfamiliar with formalities, my name is Zhaidra."

Caidrah's suspicion lifted. After months of searching for this warlock, it turns out that she found her instead. Although the question is whether or not Zhaidra will listen to what she has to say, and if her views match her own.

"I... I do apologise. My name is Caidrah, I have been searching for you. Syrael told me you once served our Prince, before he was betrayed by his own people, and I represent those of us who remain loyal to our Prince and the Sunfury."

"Ah, the Sunfury... Wait, what? Syrael?" Zhaidra's eyes widen, switching topic as soon as she hears the name.

"Indeed, he directed me to--"

"You do realise Syrael has long been a traitor to the Prince, do you not? He is one of the Scryers. You'd be fortunate if you're not already banished from Silvermoon for your intent, and you'd definitely be killed on sight if you ever planned on returning."

Caidrah stared at Zhaidra in a moment of disbelief, before she shut her eyes tightly and sighed. Another traitor, why another traitor?

"... Marvellous." She said sarcastically, rubbing her forehead. "If Syrael is a traitor then he must be dealt with immediately, before he can open his fetid little mouth."

"I assure you, Caidrah. Syrael is a traitor, and his goals are to see us crumble. We cannot simply march into Silvermoon and deal with him, as it would rouse the locals." Zhaidra tapped her chin in contemplation.

"And what will those insects do? I worry for our well-being, more so than my reputation amongst the traitors."

"Perhaps if you were to wait outside Silvermoon, I could locate Syrael and bring him to justice. I could deal with him myself."

The two traded their plans between eachother, and within the hour they decided on how will be rid of Syrael once and for all. It was very unlikely that he would simply allow the Sunfury to flourish; especially if he knows what they are capable of. The two gathered what they would need before exiting the hovel. Zhaidra collected her hawkstrider from the miniature stable, before they set off into the rainy night.

"Now, Caidrah. You must remain out of sight at all costs, there is a chance you could be recognised if you were to come with me. Once I find Syrael, I'll deal with him as quickly as possible. Once the deed is done, we need to depart as soon as we can." As Zhaidra spoke, Caidrah mounted the hawkstrider. It cawed loudly as it staggered from the sudden gain in weight, but soon bolted off in direction of Silvermoon.

Their arrival in Quel'Thalas wasn't what could be described as a warm one, but they knew they must act quickly. Avoiding any contact with the locals, Caidrah and the hawkstrider remained out of sight as Zhaidra prepared her disguise, soon heading into Silvermoon. It felt like a minute before Zhaidra was chased out of Silvermoon by an Arcane Patroller, swiftly followed by a platoon of mounted Blood Knights.

"Protect the innocent!" It yelled at the two as it swung its enormous arms about.

"There's no time, we must leave!" Zhaidra shouted, hastily making her way over to the hawkstrider, and as soon as she was mounted she pulled its reins.

"What are you doing? What about Syrael?!" Caidrah clung on to Zhaidra as the hawkstrider quickly took off once again. The Arcane Patroller stomped its way after the pair, soon being left in their wake, although not the Blood Knights. They were still pursuing them.

"Syrael's dead, we no longer need to concern ourselves over--"

A fireball screeched past the two, almost setting fire to the hawkstrider. It seemed that the local populace were aiding the Blood Knights in capturing the two. They kept their heads down as the hawkstrider sped through the Ghostlands. Enduring arrows and managing to maneuver itself around the many arcane bolts.

"Why are they being so persistent? Do they not realise who we are, and what we are capable of?"

"Apparently not, but we are vulnerable at this moment in time. They outnumber us greatly, and if they manage to take this hawkstrider down then we are dead. Let us focus on the task at hand, then we may talk."

Caidrah agreed, but the night was young, and the Blood Knights had no intention of giving up. They continued to chase the pair all the way into the southern half of the Eastern Kingdoms, and nothing would deter them. They were keen, quite possibly some of the best Silvermoon had to offer, and their steeds clearly were capable of sustaining themselves during this lengthy pursuit.

"It's useless, nothing we can do will deter them. We have to venture through the Dark Portal - it is the only way we may find safety from them."

"... Don't be ridiculous."

"What else can we do, Caidrah? If we stop, they will kill us both."

"I am sick of these mongrels chasing us, when they are the traitors! They should pay for their insolence. I will try to deter them with my magic, you focus on getting us through that portal." She twisted her body round in order to get a view of the Blood Knights, sending a shadowbolt in their direction.

"We're near the portal, I doubt they'll follow us through it!"

"Hurry."

Caidrah persisted in firing shadowbolts at the platoon of Blood Knights, despite none of them hitting, as the hawkstrider tripped on itself and fell into the dirt. Both Caidrah and Zhaidra were sent rolling forwards, the Blood Knights hastily gaining up on them.

"Now we have you! Prepare to die, Sunfury scum!" The leading Blood Knight yelled at the top of her voice, raising her golden blade high above her head.

They both quickly stood on their feet and they ran as quickly as possible to the portal, there wasn't a moment to spare. If they stopped for even a fraction of a second then they would be dead. The clattering of their horse's feet drew ever so close, so close that even their breaths could be heard amongst all the noise. This was it, this was the end...

[Torches]

Part III: Retrogress.

"Where have they gone?!" The leading Blood Knight eyed her surroundings, gritting her teeth.

"It seems they managed to successfully escape, Miss Brightdawn."

"Nevertheless, they can't be far from us." She tightened her fist, her lips curled with animosity. "We'll find them."

"We shall do our best."

"Indeed, I need you to make contact with Captain Suncrest and Captain Firewing. We must locate these traitors. Until then..." Brightdawn saluted the Blood Knight, who in turn did the same. The Blood Knight returned through the Dark Portal, while Brightdawn rallied her knights for a speech.

"I believe now would be the best time to escape." Zhaidra whispered to Caidrah.

"Agreed." She nodded, both of them slipped down the platform, barely performing a narrow escape.

Although the Blood Knights were keen, they both managed to make a narrow escape. They couldn't return to Azeroth for the moment, as the Blood Knights were stationed at the dark portal. Instead, they knew they must find shelter in order to remain hidden.

The two progressed across the barren wastes that is Hellfire Peninsula, at this point gradually becoming filled with doubt in their survival. As the two walked together, they discussed their choices; the desolate Outland has little in terms of hospitality. Especially for two warlocks, what with one of them remaining loyal to Kael'thas. Caidrah was partially concerned about the Scryers, knowing that they still reside in Shattrath, if they were only to be informed... All of the Sunfury blood elves would likely be overwhelmed.

"It's unlikely we'll find an abandoned house out here, or even a cave."

"Indeed, that is why we must find temporary residence within any ruins. These lands are abundant with them."

"But what about the Scryers? Wouldn't they know of our presence here, if Brightdawn decided to inform them?"

"What--..." Her eyes widened at the mention of her old foes. They know her, and they would definitely remember her. Mutinous cretin. Even the name makes her skin crawl. "The Scryers, yes..."

"Caidrah? Are you listening to me?" Zhaidra waved a hand infront of her.

"Hm? My apologies, I was thinking." She finally glanced to Zhaidra; she seemed to have a flashback.

"I was asking what you thought of those ruins." She then pointed to the nearby ruins of Sha'naar.

"... Ah, yes. We can investigate, kill anything that currently resides there." She glances over her shoulder, eyes darting about, before they both headed towards the ruins.

Of course, the draenei ruins were abandoned. There wasn't any sign of life, and it was definitely a perfect location to reside. At least until the need to move about arises, or if by chance there was any reason why she must move. The two warlocks resided in these ruins for two days, surviving off cooked helboar meat. It could barely be considered satisfying, but it kept them alive.

It was the morning of the third day in Hellfire Peninsula. Sin'dorei search teams relentlessly combed every corner of the barren wastelands in search of the two missing warlocks. Overall there were a dozen squadrons scoping the landscape and none of them would stop to ask for names; once they acquired their target, they would likely detain it. Make an example of it to the innocent; show them what happens if one is classed as a troublemaker. As soon as the search team passed, the two warlocks departed from the ruins.

"It would be in our best interest to return to Azeroth. I believe it'd be wiser if we were to reside in the catacombs. I know of its location, after all, and I do have my-"

"No, Caidrah. We should go our separate ways for now. I'll keep in contact with you via mail."

"Very well, you know where I am if you ever need to contact me."

The two warlocks began their journey back to Azeroth. Caidrah had already ingested fel blood that morning, as Zhaidra had provided her with the fel blood she required in the past, although with them separating and with Landor imprisoned... Caidrah knew about the difficulties that were to come, if she ceased her daily ingestion of fel blood. It was beginning to take its toll on her, as her body had already begun its mutation process, even the illiterate could identify her for her chosen path.

It was a while before she returned to her lair within the catacombs, although from there she was presented the blueprints for a certain device by Landor. Who told Caidrah he was presented these blueprints within Silvermoon, by an individual who claimed to be loyal to the Sun King. It would be pointless trying to pry any more information out of him; it would only slow down her research. She conspired with her allies momentarily, and now she prepares for the upcoming testing of this device.

[Torches]

Part IV: The Beginning of the End.

The Sunfury blood elves brought their 'project' to Eversong Woods; it was concealed well within a merchant's cart. Concealed so well it was mistaken for another cart which was due to be delivered to a private party at Saltheril's Haven. There was a slight delay, as Caidrah wanted to wait until the moment where the death toll would be at its peak.

As soon as they realised their cart was being wheeled over towards Saltheril's Haven, the Sunfury blood elves ceased their hesitation; they charged in to attack the party-goers. The torrent bomb was supposed to be unleashed within Fairbreeze village, afterall.

"... Eh, it's gone..." Leida blinked, peering over the tree root.

"What?! What do you mean it's gone?" Caidrah ran across the hills, her blood elves following behind her.

As the party-goers came into view, they looked upon their cart which sat quietly by Saltheril's Haven. What did they think was in it? Alcohol, fireworks and whatnot? Idiots.

"We'll charge down there and slaughter the lot of them, and once we're done, we'll detonate the bomb in Fairbreeze village. Charge and show them no mercy!"

The Sunfury blood elves descended from the hill, wielding their magic and their blades. The party-goers weren't as ill-prepared as suspected. Yes, it was true that the Sunfury had the element of surprise, but it didn't turn the tides of this battle. As time passed, the party-goers' numbers eventually began to wane, amidst the blood-stained grass lied bodies. Bodies of the Sunfury's fallen, as well as the party-goers.

"Caidrah, hurry up!" Leida called out as she fought.

"Don't you think I'm trying?!" Caidrah was attempting to arm the bomb so that they may escape. At least if somebody died from the explosion, it'd be a far better result than it not killing anything at all.

A dozen Silvermoon Guardians arrived at the crime scene, accompanied by a glaive thrower. As the Sunfury fought valiantly against the opposing party-goers, Caidrah continued to tamper with the prototype torrent bomb.

"Faorar, I advise you take everyone and return to the catacombs, I will be there once I detonate this bomb." Caidrah looked to Faorar, whispering.

"Arrest them all!" One of the guardians yelled, as they began stepping towards them.

"But what about you, yes?" Faorar gazed upon Caidrah as she spoke, the Silvermoon Guardians steadily pacing towards them.

"Forget about me. Do as I command, Faorar!"

"Surrender, criminal scum!"

Faorar nodded to her, as he rallied any Sunfury blood elves nearby. Erida prepared a portal for those who happened to be near her, others ran for their lives. The rest remained by Caidrah's side -- inevitably staring at fate, as their only outcome would be execution. The authorities moved towards the Sunfury blood elves, beating them down with their shields, as one pulled Caidrah down from the cart. She snarled and flailed her arms about, but it was clearly useless. The torrent bomb was a dud, it wasn't going to kill anyone or anything. It was a failure. If she'd stopped being so hasty, it would've succeeded.

"Take them all to Silvermoon. We will extract what information we can out of them. Before we execute them, of course."

A failure, indeed. It was fitting that following said failure would be death.

[left][/left] The next couple of hours were droning on, and the brief visit from Krian didn't make it any more pleasant for her. It was a repetitive loop of nuisances; the hushed muttering of the guards, the faint sobbing of the emotionally and mentally weak, and the invasive staring of those prisoners whom sat in groups. Just what were they looking at? It's not like it matters.

"What're you staring at, vermin?!" She yelled at the prisoners, her voice echoing throughout the chamber. One of the guards tapped on the portcullis with the tip of his glaive.

"Silence, criminal! You'll get what's coming to you soon."

"You can shut up as well!"

"Don't make me come in there, traitor. I'm warning you."

"Warn me as much as you like, cretin, I sincerely doubt the outcome would differ."

"I'm war--..." The guardian stands down, he clearly was annoyed at her, but instead he held his tongue. He knew this traitor would get exactly what she deserves.

"... Just as I thought."

As the two fell silent, the conversation of two or more persons echoed throughout the corridor. Nigh audible to most, however. A robed man with an expensive taste in clothing stepped through the door, accompanied by a hooded man.

"I presume you are the one known as Caidrah?" He asked, rather well-spoken. Perhaps he was a noble of some kind.

"You know my name, what of it?" She remained huddled in the corner; she was depressed because of her failure, angry at herself for her hastiness. And for what? Only for it to prove to be a failure.

"Yes, well... I do hope you'll prove to be more than a waste of time." The robed man nodded to his associate. "Bring her to 'room.' You already know which one I speak of."

The hooded man nodded, pacing over towards Caidrah. Was this it? Was it already time for her execution? She simply thought it may be the best to confess her intent and her beliefs. That would most likely do little in terms of preventing her execution, as it seemed this robed figure was intent on seeing her suffer greatly for her supposed 'betrayal.' These two men took Caidrah to a very bland circular room, with hideous chalky-white walls and blood red draperies. Was this to be her final moments? She was seated on a stool as the robed figure began circling her.

"Now, Caidrah, I want to know every detail. Your allies told us little about your operation at Saltheril's Haven, and they left us no choice but to eliminate them. We know of the torrent bomb, and that has been dealt with. Who ordered you to do this?"

"What do you expect me to tell you, you buffoon?"

"I beg your pardon? I've tried being polite, Caidrah, I wi--"

"Shut up you fool." She scowled at the robed figure, angered by his mere presence.

"... Have it your way, then. Proceed with the torture." The robed figure nodded to the hooded man. Whom slouched forward with a blunt knife, he began with splitting the tips of her ears.

"Get off of me, you little lapdog!" She twisted her head away from the hooded man, although it only made the tearing worse. The hooded man leered over her as she bled.

"P-pain... Good."

Caidrah winced. It wasn't the most painful experience, but it definitely roused her anger. She stood up, flailing her arms at the hooded man. She hit him directly in the face twice, and as he reeled over, she broke his nose with a swift knee to the face. Blood splattered all over the pale flooring as the robed figure chuckled, his demeanour overly calm, and with a simple flick of his wrist he detained her with naught but a simple spell.

"I have no time for your games, Miss Skysearer. I want to know everything, and I want to know now. I've been overly patient with you for too long."

"F-face... h-hurt."

"And I have no time for your pathetic games. If an execution is where I am heading, then be done with it!"

The robed figure tuts. As the hooded man returned Caidrah to her seat, blood poured from his disfigured nose.

"You are being unreasonable, even if you are a traitor."

"Why don't you go crawl back down the hole you came out of? If you're going to kill me, then be done with it!" Caidrah scowled as she shouted at the robed figure. Her apprehension getting the better of her.

"B-bleed... M-master." The hooded man spoke weakly, stumbling towards a metal table. It picked up a coiled whip, as it slouched behind Caidrah, cutting her robes loose as it uncoiled the whip.

"Now then, Miss Skysearer. I want you to tell me everything you know about the operation which took place at Saltheril's Haven. Failure to comply will result in your bare back being whipped. I advise you tell me, for it is truly an unpleasant experience."

"Shut up and die you idiot!" Caidrah hissed as she screamed at the top of her lungs.

"Uuuh... Ears hurt."

"... Yes, unpleasant. Do administer a single lashing."

The hooded man brought the barbed whip forward, it connected with her back, flaying the skin.

"Ngah! You will pay for that, mark my words you lit--"

She was whipped again, and again, and again. Each time letting out pained screams. It was unexpected, after all, that within their possession they'd have a barbed whip. As the robed figure continuously demanded answers, he started to become irritated at the vulgarities and otherwise anti-social behaviour she was giving him. At the end of it all, he returned her to the prison in Silvermoon, where she knew she'd be waiting for her executioner.

It was almost an hour later, before the robed figure returned. He was accompanied by three guards, he motioned for Caidrah to stand as soon as he was within the prison.

"It is time. Stand and accompany me to your execution."

Despite her reluctance, she knew it would be easier. At least it would finally end. It was pointless being alive any longer. Caidrah was defeated, and the Sunfury Revelation must go on without her. It was difficult to stomach, there was plenty of unfinished business.

"Hurry up, scum!" The guard hit Caidrah with the shield as she stalled, forcing her to move.

What now? Death? A fate similar to that of the other Sunfury blood elves; mercilessly executed? Torn to shreds. It didn't matter, as this was it -- this was the beginning of the end. As soon as they were outside, somewhere out of sight, the robed figure spoke once again.

"That will be all."

"Sir?"

"As I said, that will be all."

"But, sir, we ar--"

"If I have to repeat myself a third time, you will not like the outcome."

The guards looked to eachother, before they finally listen to the robed figure's requests. They departed, and once they were left alone, the robed figure seemed to inspect Caidrah.

"Look at you, completely oblivious. Prepared to accept defeat, prepared to be belittled by these scuttling wretches. There is much I need to show you. Come." The robed figure offers her his hand.

[Torches]

Part V: Pilgrimage.

Once Caidrah took the robed figure's hand, an abrupt flash of luminous green light shrouded them both. Her vision blurred momentarily, she knew it was fel-related magic. Within the blink of an eye she was stood in the Blasted Lands, accompanied by the robed figure.

"What do you -want- with me?!"

"What do I want? Why, I do have one task in store for you. I present to you two choices, Caidrah. The first choice would be performing a certain task, where you would rightfully earn your freedom. The second choice is that you deny my request, and you will be returned to the confinements of Silvermoon's prison. The choice is yours."

"... I'm assuming I have no choice, therefore, I will accept this task. I see no point in continuing this dilemma."

"A wise choice. Now listen closely, within the swamps to the north there is a warlock whom I have deemed liable. I want you to bring her to me alive, and I shall deal with her. Once the deed is done then I will permit your freedom. I will make it clear to you: I will thwart any feeble attempts at escaping."

Caidrah had no clue what this task might be, nor did she particularly care. If it meant her freedom then she was already intrigued. It wasn't even an hour into her search before she felt the dreaded urge to feed upon fel blood. Perhaps this warlock she sought has fel blood available? If not, then she knew that the difficulty of completing task would indeed be amplified.

She scoped the Swamp of Sorrows for a while; wading through the filth that is the swamp. It was difficult to locate this warlock when her senses were dulled by her withdrawal symptoms.

"Your hunger; it returns." "It returns. "Returning once again." "Once again."

"S-shut up."

"Shut up?" "Shut up?" "Why?" "Why?"

"... Where are you, warlock?" She quietly emitted a pained groan as she gripped her jaw; a familiar pain which has bothered her for a week.

"Where are you?" "Where are you?"

Caidrah chanced upon a cave, hidden behind foliage. She steadily approached it, and continued with scouring through it, but she found nothing. It was completely empty, and without a trace of ever being discovered. She persevered, stumbling across the swamps to find at least a trace of her target.

"... S-somewhere, out there. M-must continue."

"Must continue." "Must continue."

"... I'm getting closer..."

"Getting closer..." "Getting closer..."

Caidrah was soaking wet, her newly bought robes which were presented to her by Nastainth were ruined. And she had already outgrown them due to her increase in muscle size, but that was irrelevant to the task at hand. After more wandering, she chanced upon yet another cave, this one a little larger than the last. It consisted of ancient distorted tunnels which each spiralled down into the darker depths. It was completely silent within, each echo given by a footstep would ricochet from the walls and progress further into the dank caverns. Perhaps this cave was where the warlock resided, as there were hints at somebody passing through here as there was a discarded lantern quietly sat upon an irregularly shaped rock.

"... Is anybody here?"

"Anybody here..." "Anybody here..."

It was indeed quiet, it seemed the only conversation one could have here would be with no other than themselves. Perhaps the insane would find this comforting; hearing their own voice would be better than hearing no other, after all.

"... I wondered when I would be seeing you again, Caidrah." It was a feminine voice which sounded oddly familiar.

"Caidrah..." "Caidrah..."

"W-who are you?" Her voice trembled, it wasn't fear however, it was the fel addiction. It was starting to effect her greatly.

"Who are you?" Who are you?" "Do you even know who you are?" Who are you?"

"... I'm Zhaidra, of course."

"Zhaidra? It c-can't be." "Zhaidra?"

Zhaidra was her target, and one couldn't even begin to imagine what she must've done to anger the robed figure - whose name Caidrah still doesn't know. Just who is he, and why was he even interested in sparing Caidrah from her execution?

"... Do y-you have any f-fel blood?"

"Fel blood." "Fel blood."

"What kind of fel blood? I have a couple of vials with me, at this moment in time."

"Time..." "Time..."

"... A-any! Any! Give m-me it!"

Zhaidra passed Caidrah three individual vials of fel blood, which she consumed within seconds. Zhaidra was amazed at how quickly one could swallow the vile substance, as the contortion of Caidrah's features would clearly state how disgusting it actually tastes. Her hunger for fel blood was sated, but she could still feel that terrible urge; it mustn't have been potent fel blood she ingested.

"... Better? I thought you were going to pass out on me then. Again." Zhaidra offered Caidrah a friendly smile.

"Yes, much better. I was searching for you, because I feel we should relocate. I have found another location worthy of the Sunfury's attention."

"I told you, Caidrah. I cannot follow in your wake; I must remain hidden. Thus, I regrettably decline your offer."

What should she do? If Zhaidra was going to decline, she knew she'd be returned to the prison. Although Zhaidra was her closest experience to friendship since the destruction of the Quel'dorei lands. She felt sentimental value towards the woman, even though she'd barely performed an act of kindness towards Caidrah.

"You will come with me. Now." Her tone darkened, she gave her prominent scowl to Zhaidra as she tightened her fists.

"No, I told you, Caidr--"

That was it. Caidrah didn't wait for her to finish what she was going to say, as her anger had already triggered. Perhaps it could be considered survival of the fittest, but it didn't stop the undying guilt which flowed through her veins as she repeatedly punched Zhaidra in the face. She slumped down to the ground in a flurry of blood, but even that didn't stop her from kicking the poor woman in the gut. Never had she felt so guilty, and never had she seen such terror in somebody's eyes; she feared for her life, and Caidrah was enjoying every bloodthirsty moment, yet equally being eaten away by her conscience. The macabre beating continued even throughout every pained scream, and it was only when Zhaidra's features were disfigured and her body left limp that Caidrah then proceeded with dragging the woman away. Leaving a bloody trail in her wake.

Presenting Zhaidra to the robed figure was the hardest part for Caidrah. Her conscience never ceased plaguing her the moment she committed this foul act of brutality, but again, she knew that it was a necessity. Survival of the fittest - how low she had sunk to simply keep herself from being executed by Silvermoon's authorities, she turned on those she claimed to be friends, although she knew herself that with the fel blood addiction her mind and body would become severely warped.

"It is done." Caidrah presented the unconscious Zhaidra to the robed figure, whom in response cackled loudly.

"Well done, mortal. You have done me proud."

"I have earnt my freedom, no longer must I perform any menial tasks which endanger the lives of myself or my friends."

"Friends?" The robed figure snorted derisively, "Surely you do not value friendship over your own life? Were you not thinking to yourself that this is a prime example of what you call 'survival of the fittest?'"

Caidrah arched a brow, how did he know? The robed figure extended his hand as Caidrah thought to herself, rows of demonic runes formed around the unconscious Zhaidra, and before her opened the maw into nothingness. Even as the sun shined over its inky black surface, it remained that same bleak colour. It captivated her attention, but the longer she gazed into it the emptier she felt inside, it also made her somewhat frightened; this kind of incantation was unknown to her, and she knew the ins and outs of the most common forms of warlock magics. Within a few moments, Zhaidra was swallowed by the inky black cylinder, the demonic runes criss-crossed once before it finally disappeared.

"As you can see, this not a stroke of luck. You are here for a purpose, mortal, and I certainly wouldn't be astonished if you knew little about that purpose."

A familiar scent that was present now. It was an overwhelming sensation, she could finally sense it from this robed figure. Why didn't she sense it before?

"Who, or rather, what are you?" Caidrah stared at the robed figure cautiously, she knew something wasn't right.

"Ah, but wouldn't you find it much more enthralling if you were to guess? I wouldn't want to spoil your surprise."

The robed figure stepped closer to her, he outspread his hand, his fingertips touching Caidrah's forehead. Fel energies were transcended directly into her brain; she'd visualise whatever it was this robed figure wanted her to see. Her vision began with an unfamiliar planet, it was not identical to Azeroth, as it was a mountainous planet. It was peaceful, she knew that much, and it could only be described as... Beautiful.

"Wh-... Where am I?" She asked herself, as she walked through the wondrous city's streets unseen. It was so incredibly peaceful. Its inhabitants were blurred, but she could make out their distinctive blue-purple skin. She watched as their children frolicked in the sunshine, she watched as men and women went about their daily activities. It made her feel at peace. She felt overjoyed, content, 'happy.'

"What's h-happening?!" It distorted, as the city became shrouded in darkness. These people and their buildings became hazed. She felt intense heat, was she... on fire? No, it was the city. It was on fire -- demons, demons everywhere! Her feeble attempts at shutting her eyes proved to be pointless, she watched as demons pursued children through the streets, cutting them down and tossing their bloodied corpses onto fires. Thousands of them were burning, and the horrendous stench violated her nostrils; no matter how much she writhed, no matter how much she attempted to cut herself off this realistic vision she remained still.

"Stop it! S-stop! Stop killing them! N-no, no, no!" Tears streamed down her face as she watched in horror, it was a neverending nightmare as she watched these innocent people flail helplessly as they were set alight. They ran in circles, their arms flailing in the air. Women and children set alight by these monstrosities invading this beautiful planet. The hollow laughter of the demons echoed throughout the streets, as she felt the utmost terror, she felt she had lost everything. It was the fall of Quel'Thalas all over again. It was when she saw the enormous dark figure rise above the mountain range, that she felt the utmost dread in her heart. Its eyes gleamed a deep, dark red as it gradually stomped its way towards the city. It was beset by aggressive, licking flames, and as soon as it was within viewing distance that she awoke.

"You truly are a peculiar little mortal." The Nathrezim spoke quite calmly, despite his voice being the deep, guttural type. It glared down at her eagerly as she laid still.

"Uh..." She clutched her head, seemingly uneffected by what she saw. "Wh-what happened?"

"Allow me to formally introduce myself, my name is Araldercus."

Caidrah seemed somewhat phased out, she wasn't entirely certain where she was. But she was more concerned about the Nathrezim who stood before her, she was a little apprehensive, but something told her she had no reason to fear it. Or at least, she hoped so.

"My name is C-"

"Yes, mortal. I know your name, I know just about everything there is to you. Spare me the nonsense, as I will be particularly straightforward with what I'm about to tell you. And I will not repeat myself."

"I'm list-"

"Silence." Araldercus crossed his enormous arms as he continued.

"I have been watching you for quite some time, I realise what you are capable of. I also realise what may be to come. I have seen and understood your plans, I have witnessed firsthand your loyalties and your ambitions... And your leadership. You may be useful to the Legion in some way, but, that does not necessarily mean you are worth a fraction of my time. I could put a tool such as yourself to use, perhaps."

"I-... I only wish to better myself, and the Legion, Lord Araldercus. I realise--"

"I already told you I despise repeating myself, mortal. Consider that your final warning." Araldercus growled lowly, his voice echoed throughout the narrow passage. "Now, this is what I propose. As you are already progressing with your 'ascension', I feel almost compelled to aid you. But you will take into account that I do not associate with you bottom-feeders often, and you will do what I demand in return. That being said, I am interested in seeing how you progress."

Caidrah stood completely still as Araldercus pondered to himself. He gazed deeply into Caidrah, his nonchalant gaze alone gave off an unnerving sensation, as if he was invading your mind, stripping you of every dark secret.

"I already know what you desire, and I will give you exactly that. Continue your malignance, bathe in my blood if you so desire - but you will answer to me. I will reap my reward when I see fit, and if you become a bore, I will not hesitate to end you."

"Y-yes, Lord Araldercus." Caidrah bowed respectfully to the Nathrezim, whom beared his yellow-stained teeth in a malicious grin.

"Now come, mortal." Araldercus began to walk, Caidrah soon followed closely behind him. She still remained apprehensive about his presence, but if it meant her ascension, what does it matter? Surely the consequences for aligning with a Nathrezim wouldn't be too severe.

[Torches]

Part VI: Misery and Mutation.

Why would Araldercus show interest in her, even assist her with escaping Silvermoon, just to treat her no better than the Sin'dorei treat their prisoners? Araldercus was a monster. He starved her of fel blood just to see her beg and plead. He toyed with her emotions until all she could do was cry, he toyed with her darkest secrets just to bring her down to an all time low. A clear answer was never provided as to why the Dreadlord did this, until the reason finally dawned upon her; malice was the ultimate gift, as the Dreadlord would present with this repetitive yet horrendous torture.

"Cold, so cold..." "Cold, so cold..."

He left her feeling empty and lost, she'd surge with anger and it would eventually be turned on herself. And then at the end of it all, he would reward her with his precious blood. Caidrah's large hand shakily manipulated a large tattered cloth through the pool of thick green blood, it rippled as she swerved her hand side to side. She tilted her head back as she raised the blood-filled cloth up above her face, ringing it out and soaking her features with fel blood.

Her body underwent gradual mutation in the past three weeks; her muscles expanded tenfold and her skin became a tainted dark purply red colour. Although her eyes retained their prominent fel green glow, she could be described as a monstrosity at this point. It was Araldercus' blood which caused her body to further the misshaping process, but alongside this, her personality became twisted. She seethed with arrogance, selfishness and malevolence; becoming a force not to be taken lightly, as her short-temper would ensure.

Araldercus' leering gaze unnerved her; his eyes alone told tales of his cruelty, the horrific acts he has commited. He continued to leer at her as she was knelt, watching her ever so closely as she soaked herself in his blood.

"I am becoming increasingly tired of referring to you by that ridiculous mortal name..."

"He is going to torture you again..." "Torture you again..."

"Perhaps..."

"Brace yourself..." "Brace yourself..."

"Ah, Bel-... Yes, Belzerial. The name of an old associate of mine... Before she met her demise, of course. The name should suit you perfectly."

"Belzerial?" "Belzerial?"

Araldercus circled the enormous blood elf, he gleefully smiled as she didn't make a sound in his presence. He was well aware that was his own doing, and he took great pride in it.

"I see you have learnt from your past mistakes, Cai--... Belzerial. Silence is golden."

"Silence is golden..." "Silence is golden..."

Caidrah's mind was distorted more so than it ever was. All of her emotions were simplified by Araldercus, all she knew would be the fel induced rage she could tap into at will. Although her memories remained intact; a part of her that would fortunately remain untouched. Or so she believes, at least.

"Silence..." "Silence..."

Caidrah noticed her surroundings were deathly silent, her fel green eyes flickered as she eagerly scanned the contours of the room. He wanted her to think he was gone, perhaps he was hiding in one of the corners, or behind the door? Araldercus wouldn't simply leave her, she knew that.

"Araldercus is gone?" "Araldercus is gone?"

It was useless, she was a prisoner to her own addiction. No matter how much she detested the vile blood she couldn't help but ingest it, she felt compelled to find the taste at least palatable. No matter how angry she became at herself for allowing these changes to take place, she could do nothing now that it progressed too far. She gazed upon her reflection, touching her features, as she felt mixed feelings for herself.

"What am I doing?" "You are almost there..."

"My face and my body, they're ruined..." "You are perfect."

"I have no purpose in life..." "You are one of the Legion's heralds; bring about this new epoch."

"I have betrayed my own people, as well as our prince..." "Your former life is obsolete."

As she was left to her own devices, she chose to remain where she was. Her mind wandered and eventually she upped and left, returning to the catacombs. She was in a somewhat fragile state, she found that she was still driven by her rage, and that 'spark' which was there before has been completely snuffed out by Araldercus' treachery and cruelty. It was likely a known fact that she was becoming increasingly darker as time progressed, alongside her appearance corrupting, even though she'd outright deny it if anybody were to confront her about it. Araldercus' presence alone was enough to warp Caidrah's mind, and the more time she spent with her master the more Caidrah memorised his cruel and perhaps unintentional teachings.

[Torches]

Part VII: Complication.

Araldercus entered the large stony room, an intricately designed room; archways criss-crossing at the center, bronzed trimming to the pillars, and a pool of fel blood beneath the criss-crossing archways. Knelt by this pool is Caidrah, whom turned her attention to her master as he spoke.

"You have my sincerest condolences, Belzerial." Araldercus said sarcastically as his irises lit up with delight. "I happen to request your assistance with accomplishing a certain... feat, let us say."

"You will die if you assist him..." "You will live if you assist him..."

"I refer to it as a feat, but to you, perhaps a chance to hone what skills you lack in. I demand you venture to the Blasted Lands, there you will find a handful of mortals whom have in their possession a certain artefact which perks my interest. You will no doubt recognise it once you acquire it."

"An artefact..." "An artefact..."

"... Once you have completed your task, return to me with the artefact. I will be waiting."

Caidrah nodded firmly, she knew better than to speak. She reached for her polearm as she rose from her knees, shortly departing from Araldercus' lair and beginning her journey to the Blasted Lands. Caidrah was known for her quietness during her travels, almost as if she was in a trance as she walked by herself, or if she was visualising how she would accomplish the task in a false sense of premonition.

Once she arrived, she gripped the hilt of her polearm tightly, proceeding down the elevated terrain until she chanced across a human encampment. A lone woman sat by the campfire, she was clearly dressed in the purest white robes she'd ever seen. A woman of voluptuous beauty; her thick, long hair cascaded down either side of her shoulders, her curled eyelashes blanketed her soft brown eyes as they darted about for the source of the disturbance. Within a heartbeat, she let out a pained croak, as her body was split into two halves and carelessly tossed aside. Caidrah watched with a cold gaze as the soon-to-be corpse gasped as her time was fleeting.

"Halt! 'oo be ye?!" A masculine voice called out, as Caidrah veered her gaze to the source of this voice. It appeared to be a dwarven paladin, as could clearly be told by the intricate design to his plated armour, accompanied by three human knights.

"Leave, lest you... wish to suffer the same fate."

The dwarven paladin peered past Caidrah, noticing the two halves to the young maiden who was slain by the fiendish Caidrah. His expression darkened as he furrowed his brow, perhaps he knew the woman? Not that she cared any, it made no difference.

"Y-Ye murdered 'er... Murderin' demon scum! 'ave at 'er!

The dwarf pointed his ceremonial warhammer to Caidrah, as the three knights charged at her. Her polearm was poised to strike as the first knight came at her, and with a forceful swing he flew to the side like a ragdoll. The second knight was quicker; he hastily brought his shield back and whacked her across the face, and the third knight managed to take advantage of Caidrah's momentary hesitation as he thrust his sword into her side.

"Is this how it ends..?" "Is this how it ends..?"

"You are pathetic." "You are pathetic."

Caidrah knew she could overpower these three knights, and even the paladin, so why did she hesitate? Was it her apprehension which got the better of her? Nonetheless, she gripped the hilt of her polearm tightly, as the second knight whacked her across the face with his shield once again. Caidrah could taste her own blood, which fueled her rage more so, as the third knight moved to slice Caidrah with his sword. Caidrah spun the hilt of the polearm around, knocking back the third knight as she charged the second knight to run him through. As he brought his shield forward to protect him, he was knocked down, Caidrah stamped on the second knight's head repeatedly as she swung her polearm towards the third knight.

"Light be with us this faithful day..."

The paladin descended from the elevated road, he clutched his ceremonial warhammer as he made his way to Caidrah. Whom fought the third knight valiantly, although he managed to withstand her onslaught for a couple of minutes he was eventually defeated. Caidrah then turned her attention to the paladin, as she finished the first knight off as she punctured his throat with the tip of her polearm.

"... Y-yer a damned fiend, an' I will see to it ye meet yer end this day!" The dwarven paladin gazed upon Caidrah with what was either burning hatred or pity, behind his hardened exterior one might catch a glimpse of his anxiety.

"Spare me... the conversation, if death is your wish... then I will comply."

"Enough t-talk!"

The dwarven paladin rushed towards Caidrah, the Light empowered his ceremonial warhammer. Yet, Caidrah had the advantage as she thrust the polearm into the dwarf's potbelly stomach. A pained groan escaped the dwarf's lips as she brought him up into the air, and swung him down into the ground. He was easily overpowered by Caidrah. Once he gave his final breath, she kicked him aside. Her attention turned to the nearby cavern as she overheard the faint echo of a whimper. It became a game of cat and mouse, as she stomped her way over to the maw of this cavern.

"Innocents..." "Innocents..."

"N-no! Leave us a-alone! W-we've done nothing to you!" A woman cried out, she was stood infront of her five children. As she peered past the protective woman, there were more woman and children huddled together, it seemed these lot were naught but vagabonds.

"They have children, what are you thinking?" "They are mocking you, eliminate them all!"

"P-please..."

"The woman pleads, you must spare her and the children..." "Make an example of them..."

"Silence!" Caidrah shouted, her fel-green eyes flickered as she glanced across the trembling vagabonds. A bloodthirsty haze washed over her, as she gazed on towards these vagabonds -- they seemed to be either soon-to-be parents or parents of young children, and despite Caidrah's moral instinct screaming down her ear, she gripped the hilt of her polearm.

The dying screams of the women and children ricocheted the cavern walls, any passersby would certainly be attracted to the level of noise coming from the desolate cavern. As the noise settled, she heard the muffled conversation of intruders. Caidrah turned and exited the cavern, only to come face to face with...

"It shall be done, Miss Bri--"

The mounted Blood Knights turned their attention to Caidrah, the leading Blood Knight glanced across the gruesome crime scene, she arched her brow before she finally veered her gaze down to Caidrah.

"What do we have here?"

"... Brightdawn." Caidrah clenched her teeth, tightening her grip on the polearm as she glared hatefully at Brightdawn.

[Torches]

Part VIII: Euphoria

"A potential Fel-Sworn," Brightdawn chuckled lowly as she gripped the hilt of her curved longsword. "I should've known. I could smell your foul odour from afar."

"... You are... a fool.."

"What are your orders, Miss Brightdawn?" The nearby Blood Knight asked as he stared at Caidrah inquisitively, like his superior, he gripped his sword's hilt.

"Kill it, I've seen what it's capable of..." She gave one last glance to the now bloodied cavern, her expression remained unchanged, but her eyes told tales of how disturbed she was at the cold-blooded killings.

As the Blood Knights obeyed their orders, their second of a hesitation cost one their lives. As Caidrah lunged forward, plunging the polearm's tip deep into the throat of his warhorse. It collapsed, as the other Blood Knights chose to dismount - another hesitation which claimed more of their lives. Caidrah tore her weapon from the warhorse's throat, its blood sprayed Caidrah and the paladins as they imbued themselves with the power of the Light. As they stood before the hulking woman with weapons in hand, the first Blood Knight to charge was the unluckiest, as she tapped into her incredible rage - his swordarm was severed, his eyes widen in fearful astonishment as she then struck his unprotected temple. His first reaction was to shut his eyes tightly, the pain noticably surged throughout his body, as his head was split down towards the orbital cavity. His eye drooped, as blood and brain matter expectorated from the fatal wound. The second Blood Knight, who stood nearby, suffered a laceration to his abdomen; the sheer force behind her horizontal swing caused his intestines to pour out, he helplessly fell inward on himself. The third and fourth Blood Knights were considerably more cautious, and so they should be as they witnessed their comrades suffer horrific deaths. As the blood soaked Caidrah turned her attention to these two cautious Blood Knights. She strided forward, thrusting her polearm into the the third Blood Knight, he allowed a defeaning scream to escape his lips as she plunged her hand into the wound. The fourth Blood Knight was petrified, he took a step back, Caidrah began tearing the wound open before Brightdawn sliced through Caidrah's polearm, its two halves fell, as Caidrah retracted her hand from the Blood Knight.

"You are a monster, and you shall suffer the fate of a monster. Selama ashal'anore!" Brightdawn raised her curved longsword high, as she elegantly moved to strike. Caidrah reeled back her fist, but for once, she was too slow as Brightdawn sliced into Caidrah's throat - uncontrollable amounts of blood spurted from the wound, as the tainted woman slumped down onto one knee. Her vision blurred, as she shifted in and out of consciousness.

"What? W-why?" It was Caidrah as a high elf, a flashback, she was weeping.

"You can't bear children, Caidrah. I'm not interested in someone who could barely be considered a woman." The faceless, masculine high elf spoke. It was likely a representation of Nastainth, or another one of her long forgotten loves.

"No, n-no no no! I love you, I love you with all my heart! Please... Please I'm begging you, d-don't do this to me!"

"I'm sorry, Caidrah, but we're just not meant to be."

"No-ooo!" She wailed, as she fell to her knees, she was completely heart-broken.

... The memory fizzled, and another one took shape.

"Look at her, the whore, look at her. Playing happy families with her newborn baby, and I... I have nothing..." It was Caidrah, once again, she glared at the 'happy' family. Mother, father and child. Jealousy caused her to be so bitter, she knew she could never hold a relationship with a man, at least, not since her heartbreak.

... The memory fizzled yet again, and another one took shape.

"Citizens of Silvermoon! I have given you ample opportunities to surrender, but you have stubbornly refused! Know that today, your entire race and your ancient heritage will end! Death itself has come to claim the high home of the elves!" It was Prince Arthas, defiling the sacred Sunwell with the remains of Kel'thuzad, as his minions ravaged Silvermoon. Caidrah was hidden behind a stack of crates, as she heard the ghouls feasting upon the flesh of her kin.

... Yet another memory fizzled, and shortly after, another took shape.

"You were right to come to me, Kael. I share the pain of your addiction -- your hunger for magic." ... Illidan...

"Can you help us, Lord Illidan? Can you cure us?" ... And the great Prince Kael'thas.

"There is no cure, young one. But there are ways to feed your hunger. Follow me, and I will grant your people more magic than they can imagine."

"So be it. Lord Illidan, my fellow blood elves and I humbly pledge ourselves to your service."

"Then arise, young Kael. You shall be my right hand and the harbinger of my wrath."

As the memory of the prince and his former master faded, a mixture of different pictures visualised. Most of them were incoherent past experiences, leading up to recent events.

"You have achieved greatness; a position many wouldn't dare to achieve... Yet you are still a weakling." "You should realise what it is you are lacking..."

"Or perhaps that is the issue?"

"Perhaps you realise what it is you are lacking..." "Do you forfeit, do you proclaim your enemies the victor?"

"Yet you cannot rectify it."

Amidst the darkness that is her subconscious, a face formed within the swirling blackness. Its liquid texture morphed into various familiar faces she'd seen in her lifetime, as it also spoke with a combination of voices.

"... Yet you cannot rectify it..." "Although you can, you know it is within your power to rectify it."

"Cease clinging to the past. Once you release it, you will evolve into an even greater being." "A being the living, and the dead, will learn to fear."

"... You are no longer the failed sin'dorei warlock, known... as Caidrah Skysearer." "No longer..."

"You are... Belzanarr, Overlord of the Duskhaven Vanguard, loyal to the Burning Legion." "... Burning Legion..."

"Rise..." "Rise..."

Caidrah's eyes snapped open, standing above her was Brightdawn with her curved longsword poised downward - she was about to thrust it into Caidrah, before she seized the tiny elven woman's arm and pulled her down. In a sudden burst of rage she tugged at Brightdawn's arms, as the woman gave a pained yelp when her shoulderbone emitted a painful crunch. Caidrah gave a final twist to the arm and tore it from its socket, she momentarily waved it, before she seized her other arm and repeated the process. Brightdawn screamed loudly, the remainder of her fellow Blood Knights retreated, as Caidrah then sank her enormous teeth into Brightdawn's throat. The helpless Blood Knight flailed her remaining arm about the best she could, before it was torn from its socket, blood pumped out of either side of the woman as her screams became louder and louder. Caidrah silenced the woman as she forced her thumbs into her eyesockets, as her teeth finally penetrated the armour and tore into her throat, she was gurgling on her own blood before her head finally slumped

Once Caidrah was finished with the corpse of Brightdawn, she scoured the cavern and the surrounding corpses for any sign of the artefact she'd been sent to collect. Although nothing was found, and she began to suspect that Araldercus sent her here for no more than a simple training exercise. Perhaps he wanted to see how she could handle herself, but whether or not he knew she'd encounter these Blood Knights was a question which remained unanswered. Caidrah lifted herself up to her feet, and began making her way back to the lair of Araldercus. The pool was already filled with fel blood, and as always, Araldercus was nowhere to be seen. Caidrah proceeded to the pool, kneeling down by it and began appeasing her everlasting fel addiction.

"... You have done well, Belzerial. I am impressed at how well you handled yourself in that situation, and I presume you found the mass slaughter... invigorating?" Araldercus paced towards Caidrah, she allowed his gnarled hand to rest upon her shoulder as he gave it a somewhat re-assuring squeeze.

"I'm also assuming you learnt much from your experience, and perhaps you'll learn more as time gradually passes by. But remember this, my pet, you are still under my rule and when I summon you - I expect you to come crawling to me. I will always be aware of what you're up to. Feast upon my blood, and harness the power of the Legion - do not fail me, Belzanarr."

Araldercus took his leave, and Caidrah remained at the side of the blood pool for the entire night - indulging herself upon Araldercus' blood with the ragged cloth she'd previously used, although her master had seemingly left, she could still feel his piercing stare within the shadowy corners of the room. Upon the crack of dawn, she finally felt the need to remove her helmet, tossing it aside as she gazed upon her reflection in a nearby cracked mirror; her orange hair had mostly fallen out, and her skin was incredibly dark. As she finally removed the armour which barely fit her, she examined her own body intently. Noticing how she barely resembled the feminine 'beauty' she once was; her thick orange hair, her breasts and her small yet frail figure replaced with enormous rippling muscles, long jagged teeth and numerous sharp-pointed pieces resembling spikes, as well as a much broader figure. The aches and pains she'd been enduring for weeks had finally ran their course. She felt renewed, she felt... content with herself. For once, she was no longer trapped in a useless body which did nothing but depress her. Caidrah experienced a burst of energy mixed with euphoria, as she could only describe herself as being 'perfect.'

"This is only the... beginning." She grinned uncontrollably, before she departed from Araldercus' lair.

Spoiler:

Special thanks to Nexi and Rosencrat for help in making this happen!
And a special thank you to everyone else who gave me feedback on the story as it progressed, it was certainly helpful.