In the absence of Dar'Khan with his portal ability, Nerisen and Tiene had made their way south-east of the Manor and north of Southshore to the nearest flight path at Tarren Mill. 

One of the town's suppliers who had also been visiting the Manor to provide provisions for the influx of soldiers had kindly offered them passage when he was returning home. Nerisen bought some fruit from the merchant and Tiene sat quietly munching as they trundled along.

Tiene looked at one of the books Nerisen had brought with them but became distracted by the surrounding countryside. Carefully, she placed the book back in the satchel he'd provided. 

She had never been any farther than Fairbreeze Village in Eversong Woods, and even that was by accident when she had been stalking a lynx. The sights around the Hillsbrad Foothills, therefore, were of great interest to her. Although not as vibrant as her beloved Quel'thalas, the countryside was still exquisite boasting fresh, green foliage, clear water streams and rivers, and snow-covered peaks in the distance.

She saw mountain lions, similar to the lynx back home but they seemed more vicious and powerful. They were, nonetheless, beautiful creatures. Alarmingly, there were spiders about the same size as bears which could be seen a safe distance away as they roamed the hillsides. Snapjaw turtles wandered near the river searching out their staple diet of frogs and toads.

The wildlife was certainly varied, and her eye caught sight of the most peculiar creature. It was like a giant flightless owl, its body covered in feathers, with antlers on its head. It walked upright like a man, in fact, it was as tall as one, but that was all the resemblance it bore to a humanoid. Soon another appeared, then another. They were odd and strangely unsettling.

The merchant was kind enough to tell her they were called owlbeasts, and there were many different kinds throughout the continent. The ones here, however, were savage and not to be trifled with unless you knew what you were doing.

Their journey to Tarren Mill didn't take too long, and soon they were thanking the merchant for his kindness. They took a moment to get their bearings. The effects of the war were still evident, would be for months to come yet, and that included everywhere, not just in this small town. Some buildings, having been razed to the ground by invading orcs, were slowly being rebuilt. The surrounding land, scorched from the war, was also in the process of being cultivated for the following season's crops.

Children ran around the small square, giggling and squealing playing chase, sometimes nearly bumping into the adults who were busy transporting timbers and stone for the rebuilds. An occasional warning from parents and merchants soon had the children venturing to safer areas of the town to play, thus preventing any accidents.

Tiene could not help but wonder if those children had borne witness to some of the horrors of the war. Had they seen the monsters from Draenor? She had only heard about the orcs – hulking beasts with tusks protruding from their jaws and hands the size of shovels which could crush an elf ; like squeezing juice from a snapvine watermelon. As if the trolls weren't bad enough! She shuddered. With the war over now, Tiene hoped that whatever the future held, it would not be as dire as this battle had been.

Nerisen made his way to the flight master with Tiene following closely. It seemed this would be another first for her.

She had never flown before, whether it be gryphons, as it was here, or the majestic dragonhawks back home. She was nervous about the giant bird-lion type beasts. They looked like they could give a nasty bite. The flight master assured her they were docile creatures only likely to turn nasty in the event they had to defend themselves or protect those that rode them. Nerisen told her not to worry, as they would share the same mount.

He handed her the satchel which she shrugged onto her shoulders. Nerisen mounted the gryphon first then leaned down, offering his hand to pull her up. She swung her leg over the saddle of the beast and quickly grabbed Nerisen's waist as the gryphon lurched forward. It made a loud screech before it started to beat its wings. Then taking a couple of long, jolting steps forward, it soared into the air.

Tiene's stomach heaved, and she shut her eyes tightly, nervous as the ground disappeared beneath her. She clung even tighter to Nerisen. Gradually, as the creature's flight evened out, became steady, she opened her eyes. The sights below were wondrous!

The gryphon glided with little effort, the updrafts from between the Hillsbrad Hills keeping it buoyant. Only now and again did it need to flap its wings to gain altitude or slightly change direction. It was exhilarating!

They were approaching the City of Dalaran on the edge of Lordamere Lake. She marvelled at the high towers and spires outlined against the skyline. It was indeed magical, and home to The Six; the Ruling Council, also known as the Kirin Tor, High Council of Dalaran. The Six were the most influential magi in the kingdoms, although not necessarily the most powerful when it came to wielding spells - that was only a small part of being a mage. Knowledge, strategy, the ability to lead was what deemed one worthy of a seat on the council.

The most talked-about structure in Dalaran was the Chamber of Air, a room at the apex of the highest tower, and allegedly concealed by powerful magic. It was rumoured to be accessed only by a portal and consisted of a floating platform which revolved rapidly, passing through time. It was there the council held their most secret meetings and made decisions of the utmost importance.

Tiene was hoping to catch a glimpse of the mystical tower as they approached, but the path the great bird took veered off to the northeast before they so much as touched the outskirts of the city. A fleeting thought crossed her mind that Dar'Khan would probably still be in the company of Prince Kael'thas. She would perhaps ask the Magister to tell her about his visit and also more about the Chamber of Air when next they met.

It was not long before they crossed the border into Ghostlands. Tiene's heartbeat quickened as Nerisen informed her they were about to fly over Zul'Aman, the home city of the Amani trolls. She clung tightly to his waist. Her eyes searched for any sign of her brothers and their Rangers in the vicinity.

It seemed relatively quiet in the area, which on the one hand was a relief, but also gave rise to a sense of foreboding. Nerisen tried to reassure his young student that the Rangers were most likely still at Farstrider Enclave, a little further north and that they were still awaiting orders. She drew little comfort from that assumption, but on recalling Fyn's words of wisdom, decided Nerisen was probably right, and she should try to have faith that her brothers would arrive home safely in the next few weeks or so - hopefully much sooner if things went well.

The land soon changed again as they flew over the beautiful vibrant colours of Eversong Woods, and onto the last lap of their journey. Judging from the sun's position in the sky, it was mid-afternoon, and when they touched down just outside Silvermoon's Shepherd's Gate, Tiene realised she was hungry.

As they walked briskly through the city towards The Students of Shadow guild hall, it dawned on her that she had not eaten since breakfast, other than some fruit Nerisen had purchased for them from the merchant who had taken them to Tarren Mill. Her stomach growled loudly, confirming her need for food to Nerisen.

"Go home," he said. "Take these books with you and study for the rest of the day. Tomorrow, I will test you on what you have learned."

Tiene felt the weight of the books in the satchel on her back. There were about five books of varying sizes in there. "Well give me a clue to which I should read first please, Nerisen. I can't get through all of them in one day."

Nerisen smiled. She had a point, and at least she was showing some keenness. "Read the one about kill points, Tiene. You have to understand where best to strike an opponent, not that you will be doing that yet, but a sound knowledge of anatomy is crucial. It can mean the difference between being the killer or the victim."

Tiene found that exciting and nodded her approval. They turned into Murder Row.

"Oh, and there is another one in there which I believe is a must for you," Nerisen said as he moved away smartly.

"Which one?" she asked before he was outwith hearing distance.

"Cooking for Beginners," he answered, laughing. "Could help a bit at home, I hear." He finished with a smirk before disappearing into the guildhall.

She frowned. Only her brother could have informed Nerisen of that! She made a mental note to reprimand Inaris for divulging her failings in the kitchen. Then again, she was in such a good mood after today's excursion she thought she might even try a recipe in the said cookbook. Lor'themar had kindly ensured their cupboards were full for the next few days, so there would be ample provisions to try something.

Time was getting on, and she didn't have too long before her brother and father would arrive home, so she picked up the pace and headed along Farstriders Square.

Two hours later, Yathas and Inaris came home to the delicious aroma of roasted meat and spices. They were more than just pleasantly surprised to find Tiene placing plates of steaming food on the dining table. The only downside was the large number of pots and utensils she had piled up in the kitchen, used to create the masterpiece.

Father and son looked at each other, sharing a small smile, both of the same mind - can't expect perfection just yet. At least the food wasn't burnt for once. Now they had to hope it wasn't raw neither.

Tiene saw them standing at the archway leading into the dining area and excitedly told them to sit. They took their places and were astonished to see the food looked very - well - edible!

"We send you to rogue class, and you come back as a cook?" Inaris commented.

Tiene wore a forced smile as she moved behind her brother. She held in her hand, the cookbook, which she lightly scuffed his head. He raised his hand and dodged another attack. "Hey!" he winced.

"That's for telling tales on how ... awful I was in the kitchen, to Nerisen," she explained. Then she planted a sisterly kiss on his cheek. "And that's a thank you for doing so."

She promptly sat down and started plating up the food. "We picked up a few books for me to study, including this cookbook, which Nerisen said he'd heard I could do with..." She stared directly at Inaris, whose face was breaking into a grin again. "But, I guess it helped me make this." She gestured the fayre on the table; roasted boar meat, candied sweet potato and spice bread stuffing.

The family enjoyed a light-hearted meal as Tiene spoke avidly of her trip to Ravensholdt Manor. They laughed when she told them of the library incident and how she had thought Nerisen was just a bit dumb to start with, asking Dar'khan to open a portal for them.

Her father's face fell just a smidge when she mentioned the mage, but smiled again when she explained he was visiting Dalaran, so she didn't see him again after that.

She recollected the haunted faces of the soldiers, druids and other passers-through at the Manor but then she smiled as she told her father and brother about Fyn Godwin, the little priest she'd met. Finally, of course, her journey home which had been her first flight and utterly fantastic. She wanted to fly as often as possible now.

Yathas was pleased to see his daughter so enthusiastic about her first-day training and hoped it would continue as time went on. He hid a bittersweet smile as he felt a tinge of nostalgia - laced with envy.

He had not missed his days as a Crimson Blade, although they had indeed been adventurous, exciting and dangerous. Back then, he thrived on action and adventure. And, of course, they had been filled with days when his beautiful Lina was with him. Still, things changed, and he had to take care of his family, which had been a saving grace indeed.

From that day, Tiene studied the books at every opportunity and even enquired if she could have more. Very rarely did she shirk chores now, she carried them out without complaint, and when not at guildhall training, she went to her room or out into the woods and studied. 

And every day, she wished word would arrive from the Crimson Blade.

After a few weeks concentrated study, she had gained sufficient knowledge of anatomy, weapons, offensive and defensive manoeuvres, poisons and their properties. She was finally ready to begin training with the use of the wooden "blades".

But still, no word from the Crimson Blade.

Her training, while with Nerisen most of the time, had progressed to Zelanis, who demonstrated the techniques of various effective strikes. Initially, the students used training dummies to familiarise themselves with the hits. The rule of thumb was; when you struck a training dummy, you named the area you were attacking to demonstrate the most effective strike following whatever scenario Zelanis gave you. He would assess you each time, and your score would determine the next stage of your training.

Before entering the combat ring, Cel trained students in moves which could mean the difference between them ending up as pin-cushions deflecting attacks and stunning their opponents. These moves also helped to maximise their suppleness, agility and speed.

Tiene had a natural flair and found training with Cel easy. It was during one of these lessons Tiene shifted into stealth, much to the amazement of Cel and the other pupils. When Tiene dropped her concealment, she was greeted with an approving look from her trainer and stunned silence from several of her fellow students.

"Did I do something wrong?" she asked, clueless as to why they all looked at her open-mouthed.

"Not at all Tiene," Cel replied. "We have just not covered that aspect of your training yet."

"Oh, I'm sorry." Tiene was a tad embarrassed.

"How did you do it?" asked Camnath, one of the young males who had started only a week before Tiene.

"Magic," she replied, surprised that he had to ask. Again she looked at the group. They all seemed astonished. "Is there another way?"

Cel stepped forward. "Yes, Tiene. We do not use magic to stealth, at least, not magic in the traditional sense."

"Sorry. I won't do it again."

"Oh, no!! Please, by all means, you can use it. Perhaps you can also teach it to the group?"

"Well..." Tiene was stunned. "I could, yes, if you wish. I just assumed everyone knew how to do it."

"We are not all blessed with such a wonderful warlock for a brother," Cel said. Tiene could have sworn a little flush appeared on her instructor's cheeks.

"And you will still teach the traditional way which rogues commonly use?" Camnath asked Cel.

"Of course, it is still important. In some situations, it will also be the best method to use. I dare say, however, with Tiene's input, you could well turn out to be one of the best groups we have had in the art of stealth."

The trainees voiced their approval and enthusiasm. Cel went on to tell her students, contrary to common belief, not all rogues had been able to master concealment and so their approach to their work had to be adapted to accommodate the lack of the stealth practice.

The technique was more to do with practicality, although it still required a high level of skill. Firstly, a good knowledge of the area you were going to be working in was essential, so you would wear appropriate attire. If you were working in the snow-covered mountains, for example, you did not wear bright coloured garb that made you stand out and become the easiest target on the landscape. It was the ability to blend with your surroundings which provided the illusion, in other words, camouflage.

Cel finished the lesson by telling her pupils, "If you can hone the skill, you will be able to move around in the most densely populated areas without detection." 

Camnath

Training was over for the day, and the students bade good afternoon to their trainers. On the way out, Camnath approached Tiene. He was a pleasant-looking young man with black hair worn in the traditional high ponytail. He was also one of the better students, fiercely dedicated and very focused. He had paid no more attention to Tiene than he did to anyone else in the class, he was quiet, reserved, but her demonstration today had seemed to pique his interest.

"Tiene!" he called after her. She turned to see him trotting towards her.

"Camnath. What is it?"

"I was wondering - can I walk you home?"

Taken by surprise, Tiene stuttered a little in her response. "Well, y - you can if you wish. I - I don't live too far from here, but, it is out of your normal way I think."

"I don't mind. I would like to walk with you."

She nodded, and they climbed the stairs to the Court of the Sun. "So," Camnath began, "I was impressed by your stealth ability today."

"Oh," she answered, still a little embarrassed. "Well, I feel a bit of a fool, to be honest. I thought it was something most of us would know."

"No, we don't." He smiled. "I would very much like to learn, though. I know Cel has asked you to teach us in class, but I thought - well, I hoped - that perhaps..."

"Well, hello my lovely." A familiar voice called from across the court. Tiene turned to see Dar'Khan making his way towards them. She was extremely annoyed at his intrusion. Surely he had the message now that their intended game devised weeks earlier was no longer necessary? But still, whenever he had been in town, he seemed to look her up deliberately. 

In one way, it was flattering, especially when she saw some of the other girls' envious faces as the handsome mage paid Tiene attention instead of them. Bland, plain old Tiene had a debonair Magister running after her. Right at this moment, however, she had been enjoying the company of someone else. Quickly she turned to Camnath. "What was it you were going to ask?"

The young elf eyed the approaching Magister before looking back at Tiene. "It doesn't matter. I will see you in class tomorrow." He stepped back.

"Why can't you tell me now?" She was aware that Dar'Khan was closing the distance.

"You have company," Camnath said. "I should go."

"Dar'Khan? He's only..." she started to explain, but Camnath turned and moved away.

The disappointment she felt was almost tangible. She was still looking in the direction the young elf had taken when Dar'Khan reached her. The Magister noticed where her eyes focused. "Did I interrupt something?" he asked, a hint of mockery in his voice.

"Possibly," Tiene answered, unintentionally aloud. She blushed. Quickly she changed the subject to hide her disappointment. "So, what brings you here today then Dar'Khan."

The Magister stared at her, eyes intense. 

She caught his gaze; it took her a little by surprise. He did not usually look at her in that way, which, although she could not decipher it, knew it was - different. Much to her annoyance, he still managed to make her feel a little giddy in his presence. She avoided his eyes and stared out across the court. Her foot started tapping. 

The Magister noticed, and a small smile crept on his face. "I am sorry, Tiene. I see I have annoyed you."

Tiene was instantly drawn back to his gaze. She had not expected an apology, and it made her feel ashamed that she was rude to him. "No, Dar'Khan, you haven't. I'm sorry for giving that impression."

"Well, then," he said with his more familiar flair. "Allow me to escort you home, and I will tell you my news." He gestured she walked on and then fell into step with her.

"So what is your news?" she asked.

"Your brother and Lor'themar will return home tomorrow."

She halted. Her face lit up. "Are you sure?"

"Quite sure, young lady. And I can report that both are well."

"That is great news. I thought you implied you had news of your own. I assumed you were going to tell me that you finally had a promotion."

She noticed his jaw tighten and his eyebrows knitted together. After a moment, he replied, "No. I'm afraid I have no news of that nature. That is not to say that I am not working on it still."

"Forgive me. I did not mean to be insensitive."

He stopped walking as did she. When their eyes met this time, she noted a fire in them she had never seen before. It lasted only a second, but she had seen it. And it inexplicably unnerved her. His next action utterly stunned her. He cupped her chin and gave her the briefest of kisses on her mouth.

She staggered back, eyes wide, but drawn to his mouth as she always seemed to be. Why did he have this effect on her? The kiss was undoubtedly part of the game he seemed intent on pursuing. She was confused, for she had already advised him it was not necessary. So, what was his purpose? Her surprise turned to irritation. "Why do you insist, Dar'Khan?"

"Excuse me?"

"I have told you there is no need for this pretence. I am in training as a rogue now, and you do not have to convince my father anymore."

He took a step closer, lifting his head high. His eyes sparkled as he looked down at her. "And what if, my lovely, my interest in you is no longer for the purpose of pretence?"

"What other reason could there possibly be?" Her irritation was on the rise once more.

He circled her. "Perhaps I want to court you genuinely," he whispered in her ear.

She fought the sensations building in her lower abdomen and forced the flush to stay away from her face and neck. Yes, the mage was handsome and charming, but there was also an unsettling side to him which currently eluded her. The only word she could think to describe it was unpredictable. "No, Dar'Khan. You do not wish to court me, but I sense you take great pleasure in teasing me. Quite why I do not know, perhaps one day I will have the answer."

She moved away, but he grabbed her by the wrist, bringing her back into his embrace. Again he kissed her, deeper this time. She pulled free, lifting her fingers to her mouth, astonished by his audacity.

The sly smile lingered on his lips. "Think carefully then, my lovely, for one day the answer may indeed surprise you. And I will collect on the kiss you promised me." He spun around, abrupt. With his cloak swirling, he walked away.

Furious, she stamped her feet in frustration. Damn you, Magister, she thought. Turning, she headed home.

As she entered the house, her father came to greet her. He stopped as he saw the look of irritation on her face. "Tiene? Is something wrong?"

She shook her head and forced a smile then hugged him. "No, everything is alright, father. I am just a little tired."

"Ah, alright. You will be pleased then to hear Duthan and Lor'themar will be heading home tomorrow."

"Yes, I ..." She decided not to inform him she had heard the news already and from Dar'Khan, of all people. "I am thrilled by that news father," she corrected in time. "Shall I cook for them?" She removed her boots and placed them back near the door.

"Well, I think that would be nice, yes. They will be pleasantly surprised by your new-found talent."

She could not help but smile. Her father was not wrong, her cooking ability had significantly improved even though it was everyday food she prepared, but it was nonetheless wholesome and tasty.

"I have some other news as well," her father said as he approached with a letter in his hand. "Sauren Nightflame of the Crimson Blade has finally written back."

Her fingers twitched, wanting to take the letter, but she was too nervous about accepting it. "Please - just tell me," she said, a distinct quiver in her voice.

Yathas smiled reassuringly. "You will start training with them in a month."

Squealing with delight, she bounced up and down on her toes before hugging her father again.

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