Over the following weeks, the network flooded with reports about the ongoing battle with the undead. Although it was spreading further afield, Lordaeron and the Western and Eastern Plaguelands - formerly Eastweald - remained the bastion of the Scourge. The Crimson Blades and Sigil of Shadows were kept busy, working alongside the Argent Dawn, a neutral faction whose only desire was to rid the world of the pestilence.

Other news, however, was also filtering through regarding the Prince of Quel'thalas. It appeared he had piqued the interest of Garithos, a bigoted Grand Marshal, who had a particular aversion to elves.

Word had reached the Grand Marshall of a pending Scourge attack near some arcane observatories, and he ordered Kael'thas to stand and defeat them. Unbeknown to the Prince, however, the hateful Garithos had withdrawn his forces leaving the elves to fight unassisted.

The bigot had not foreseen naga coming to the Prince's aid, however. These sea-dwelling creatures were former elves cursed as punishment for their Queen's betrayal thousands of years ago during the War of the Ancients. The Prince, with the combined efforts of the naga, succeeded in defeating the Scourge.

The Grand Marshal may not have achieved the death of the last elven royal in the battlefield as hoped, but he did the next best thing. Kael'thas and his people were incarcerated in Dalaran's dungeons for treason. Death was, after all, inevitable.

A communique from Lor'themar later arrived for Tiene. Her face paled as she read her brother's words.

"What is it? What's wrong?" Camnath asked.

Tiene looked between Camnath and Brett; disbelief etched upon her face. "Prince Kael'thas has escaped," she told them.

"Well – that's good. Isn't it?"

"Let me see," Brett said, taking the letter from Tiene, his eyes scanning the details.

"By the Light!" The Guild Master was equally troubled.

Camnath, frustrated at not knowing the situation, asked again what was happening.

"The naga rescued the Prince," Tiene explained. "They slipped him through a portal to Outland." Her eyes widened. "A portal created by none other than the resurrected Kel'Thuzad."

Camnath faltered. "No! The Prince is in league with him?"

"It would seem so." Tiene slumped, landing heavily on a chair.

Brett handed the letter to Camnath. The Guild Master paced in front of his desk, rubbing the back of his neck, wearied by the news. "What is this going to escalate into, I wonder?"

"It has already worsened." The three of them looked up. Thil'las stood, his face bearing an uncharacteristically turbulent expression.

"You've heard more?" Tiene asked the Night Elf.

Thil'las nodded, grim. "Yes. My cousin is a mage in what was Dalaran."

"What was Dalaran?" Tiene rose, instantly alarmed by Thil'las' implication.

Belaen strode in, agitated. By the stern glint in his eyes, the news was dire. "Tell them, lad. Brief them," he told Thil'las.

The Night Elf was an erudite individual whose knowledge of his people's history was impressive. What he told them was frightening.

"An ancient enemy also stepped through that portal; a Man'ari Eredar called Archimonde. He is a servant of the Burning Legion. He has destroyed Dalaran!"

Tiene slumped overcome. The enemy in this instance may well have been some monumental eredar, but the resulting similarity to the fall of Quel'thalas, was undeniable. "How many...?" she asked, trembling.

"Hundreds are dead, but many more have survived. They are already working to restore the city."

"That's one thing - I guess," Brett muttered.

"What of this Archimonde? Where is he now?" Camnath asked.

"He has been defeated by his nemesis, Malfurion Stormrage."

Tiene blinked rapidly. She recalled Lor'themar telling her of Kael'thas aiding two Night Elves pursuing another elf suspected of involvement with the Scourge. "Stormrage? As in Illidan?"

Camnath shared a look with her. He remembered the conversation too.

"Yes," Thil'las confirmed. "Illidan is the twin brother of the Archdruid. But, the prophecy was wrong."

"What prophecy?" Tiene asked, stepping nearer.

"Illidan was born with amber eyes - a predilection of greatness according to old beliefs. The elders assumed Illidan was destined to be a glorious leader, one who would protect us from the most feared of enemies. Instead, he has betrayed his people. He is allied with the Burning Legion. His brother exiled him, and it is Malfurion who has become the hero."

"And Malfurion has defeated this colossal eredar?" Brett asked.

"Yes, but not before Archimonde also attempted to destroy the World Tree atop Mount Hyjal."

Tiene, Brett and Camnath looked blank, not understanding the significance.

"Explain," Belaen encouraged Thil'las. He gestured for the Night Elf to sit down. Thil'las moved over to a seat next to the large fireplace, its flames giving his lilac skin an orange glow.

The others followed suit and sat down also, a sense of dread hanging over them.

Thil'las looked directly at Camnath and Tiene. "You do know why your people were banished from Kalimdor after the War of the Ancients, don't you?"

The two elves nodded. It was not something which was buried within archives, never to be acknowledged.

"And you know the specifics?" Thil'las asked with a glance in Belaen's direction.

The couple looked at each other. With an uncertain smirk, Camnath spoke his understanding. "A dependence on arcane was not how the majority wished to continue. They embraced the druidic way of life and the use of arcane was outlawed. But we needed it; it was our life-source."

Thil'las looked upon his friends, not unkindly, but with resignation. "That is only part of the reason, Camnath."

Belaen unexpectedly took up the conversation. "The Burning Legion is not just some out-worldly foe who happened upon us by mere accident. Arcane magic was outlawed because it was the very source which brought the Legion to Azeroth."

Tiene shuddered for all the room was warm, and the fire was heating her skin. "Are you saying we are to blame? For all of this? The Sin'dorei have been channelling the Legion all along?" She was distraught. Camnath slipped an arm around her shoulders, giving her a gentle squeeze.

"No, Tiene. That is not what we're saying," Thil'las assured her. "The Burning Legion deemed arcane as their power, not that of mere mortals. Dalaran was built upon a convergence of leylines - a map of arcane power if you think of it.

"Nordrassil and the Sunwell were both borne of waters from the Well of Eternity; it in itself, powered by arcane. Your ancestors brought a vial of the waters over, and thus the Sunwell was created. My people, duped by Illidan, have tried to contain the arcane from the vial he poured into Nordrassil. The Great Tree was planted to do just that – shield the arcane so the Legion would not find a way back."

And now the sums added up. The Scourge, Kel'thuzad, Arthas, Dar'Khan, Sauren, even the Sin'dorei and Kal'dorei plus the eredar Archimonde - all linked by the Burning Legion be it intentionally or not.

This war was not going to end. It may experience many lulls, ebbs and flows, but until the Burning Legion and all its minions were thwarted for good, the killing would never stop.

A strong leader was needed to march against the Burning Legion. But no such person was on the horizon. Only those such as the rogues and all other mortals were what stood between salvation or annihilation. Tiene realised Archimonde's defeat did not spell the end of the Burning Legion - it was merely a setback.

Music: Circle of Life composed by Adrian von Ziegler

https://youtu.be/OdTcwlOq8Cs

Finding a base in Lordaeron both safe and secure was becoming more difficult for the band of rogues. The Scourge overran several townships. The rogues' campaign against the Legion's minions in the area seemed to be never-ending.

Adding to the problem was the division between loyalties. People were wary of allowing a mixture of races, even those of the reputable Crimson Blades, within their boundaries. Suspicion, distrust abounded.

The rogues had little option but to find deserted buildings or make camp in secluded areas.

Such a location was established far west of Deathknell in Tirisfal Glades. Having scouted the area with a view to camping for a few nights, they decided it was as good a place as any. All were surprisingly calm, the fighting to the north had ended successfully – for the time being. The rogues, therefore took advantage of the reprieve, enjoying a well-earned break from battle.

The area bordered a forest. Its lush canopy sheltered the woodland floor but allowed the sun to filter through, casting soft golden rays over the ferns and grasses. The subtle scents of peacebloom, silverleaf and earthroot mingled with pine. Birdsong and chirruping insects added music to the otherwise peaceful surroundings.

It was hard to believe there were bloodshed and mayhem to the east and north of such a beautiful location.

Camnath and Tiene walked hand-in-hand. The tranquil surroundings providing a little haven, and Tiene surrendered to the peacefulness.

Raising her face to the rays shimmering through the branches, she bathed in the soft glow, inhaling the woodlands perfume.

She turned as she felt her hair being gently tugged. Camnath stood, smiling, his eyes warm, adoring, and she melted into his embrace. Kissing her deeply, he pulled her back against a giant silver pine.

Camnath started untying her britches. Tiene pulled back a little, surprised and glanced around the tree.

"Don't worry," Camnath said. "We are alone; I've been checking for the past few minutes."

Tiene smiled. She kicked off her boots and shed her britches as Camnath removed his. He then sat, back against the pine and Tiene straddled him.

Slowly, they loved each other. Camnath's mouth brushed softly against her throat as she rose and fell, soft sighs ghosting from her lips. Tiene arched her back, and Camnath's hand slid under her top. He popped the little studs on the front of her jerkin, revealing her soft breasts and leaned in to kiss the pert buds.

Flower seeds, soft and feathered, stirred by the breeze, swirled and danced around the couple as their climax neared.

Tiene's eyes were aflame as she looked at her ebony-haired husband. He was beautiful, gentle and full of love for her. His kisses continued, becoming more urgent as his hands guided her rhythm. He rocked her hips as she neared her peak, taking him with her.

He moaned as his release came, and with a sigh ghosting on her skin, he whispered, "I love you, Tiene."

She smiled – he always said that when they made love. Trembling from their intimacy, she wrapped her arms around him. "And I love you, with all my heart, Camnath," she replied.

They remained holding each other, enjoying their peaceful surroundings.

"Tiene! Camnath! Where are you?" Lexie's sharp voice called through the trees nearby.

The couple snapped out of their blissfulness and scrambled to get dressed again. Mismatching ties and poppers made them giggle in their rush to be decent before Lexie arrived. With the last popper fastened, they bolted upright to greet her as she came round the side of the pine tree.

Both wore rather sheepish grins, and Lexie's eyes glanced at the patch of flattened grass at the foot of the tree.

"Uh-huh!" she said, head tilting, looking at the two of them like a matriarchal school teacher. "You'll wear it out, you know!"

The elves looked confused.

Lexie smirked and turned away. "All that friction; it's not good for you." She cackled and moved back the way she came, gesturing they go with her. "Follow me. If you can walk, that is."

Tiene and Camnath smirked. "Where are you taking us?" Tiene asked.

"It's a surprise. Something Louvel told me about and thought you two might like to see it also."

Lexie was not for giving away any clues, and she just kept walking deeper into the woods.

Eventually, they caught sight of Louvel and Fyn. They were standing in front of what looked like a faerie ring - mushrooms, growing in a perfect circle. Some were large enough upon which to stand. Louvel beckoned the couple while shushing them at the same time.

"What's going on?" Camnath quietly asked the noble rogue.

"A splendid phenomenon, young man. A little magic for you to witness, but you must remain quiet."

Camnath nodded in silent agreement then wrapped his arms around Tiene. Together the group watched and waited for something to happen.

Moments later, a small fey drunk darter appeared at the edge of the tree line. About the size of a large bird, the magical creature was brightly coloured, and its wings were like a butterfly's, soft, powdered. Its reptilian body was scaly, shimmering, opalescent, with a long curling tail.

Another joined it. Then another appeared, and another. The spectators watched in awe as four more arrived at the mushroom ring. The little feys fluttered about for a few moments then each settled next to one of the more giant mushrooms.

A movement to one side caught Camnath and Tiene's attention. Some injured animals quietly and cautiously approached too. Uncertain whether they signified a threat, the elves remained stock still.

A further surprise came as the sound of soft music permeated the air. Camnath and Tiene looked around, confused; they couldn't trace the source of the melody.

The little feys shimmered again, and from their bodies, rippling streams of golden light stretched towards the centre of the faerie circle and the music intensified. The injured animals stopped, transfixed, watching the display along with the elves and their companions.

"What are they doing?" Tiene asked Louvel, her face lit as brightly as the little creatures' golden light.

"No-one knows," he answered as he continued to watch. "There is speculation that they are protecting an entrance to perhaps a tomb - but who knows? No doubt someone will find out one day. I thought it's rather beautiful and you two might like it."

Camnath squeezed Tiene gently. She glanced up and saw his face, full of wonder and appreciation for being shown something so beautiful. She snuggled into his embrace, and they all continued to watch and listen as the little feys' music played through the trees.

https://youtu.be/PvfCOQUTTaI

When the music ended, the feys and injured animals disappeared, faded into nothingness - all that was left was the ring of mushrooms.

Back at camp, they spoke about the little magical display they had witnessed. Some of the company just shook their heads and grinned, as if the couple were still punch-drunk from their wedding weeks before.

It mattered not, Camnath and Tiene, along with Louvel, Lexie and Fyn all witnessed it, and it was something the five of them would treasure.

As the early evening progressed into night, the company of rogues checked the perimeters around the tree lines. They planned out barriers and traps to warn them should any invasion be heading their way.

Everyone helped with securing the area. Camnath and Tiene eventually headed back to camp, where they lay side-by-side under a makeshift shelter, and slept while the night watch kept the others safe.

Four days passed before reports of the Scourge in the vicinity were received. The troop were back in battle.

The rogues worked in groups, dispatching the shambling, skeletal and ghoul-like creatures. Louvel also joined in the killing as did Lexie. They had a distinct advantage in that the Scourge was thrown into confusion by the two undead rogues. They would mimic their prey before dealing the fatal blows. They were a good team, but Louvel still insisted he would revert to working alone once they cleansed the area.

Camnath and Tiene, with Thil'las and Brett, worked as one team. It was safer for those who were not of the undead persuasion to work in fours. The scourge had a habit of raking and shredding their victims, and two rogues on their own could easily fall victim to the flailing clawed limbs. It was not possible to escape every injury, but easier to avoid a full onslaught of the Scourge's fury, if you attacked as a closely-knit unit.

Just as they had demonstrated in Deatholme when hunting the evil Magister Dar'Khan Drathir, the husband and wife team operated within a fully synchronised, well thought out strategy. Camnath slid to the hamstrings, Tiene severed the jugulars.

Singing steel jarring on bones or the squelch of soft innards spilling to the ground were commonplace sounds as were the screeches, hisses and groans of the Scourge when the assassins dispatched them.

But still, the Scourge swarmed, unrelenting, causing havoc, chaos and devastation. Each day was more tiring, bloody and disheartening than the day before. Morale was slipping in the two guilds and tempers were beginning to become frayed between the Guild Masters.

On the fifth night, things became heated between Belaen and Brett. The Blood Elf Guild Master wanted to stage an attack to the north of the forest perimeter ensuring the Scourge remained on the side of Capital City. He thought it would prevent the spread of the vile pestilence further inland.

Brett vehemently disagreed saying the Scourge were already moving south via the Eastern Plaguelands and it was prudent to attack them there. Lordaeron, he reasoned, had been sacked already, the only activity being Sylvanas' Forsaken who was still burrowing under the city. If, however, their numbers were to be added to the Scourge currently roaming around the northern perimeter, Belaen's group would not survive the attack.

The conversation had ended in a stalemate, both Guild Master's fuming at each other. The amalgamation seemed at risk of fracturing altogether.

Both leaders called upon their troops to discuss their next plan of attack. Brett and Belaen were no longer on speaking terms. The only thing both guilds were grateful for at this point, was a reprieve from fighting.

Camnath and Tiene had no option but to join their leaders and listen to their plans. The couple kissed each other deeply.

"Please stay safe," Tiene cupped Camnath's face, imploring him to practice on the side of caution.

"I will. And you be careful too, my love." They kissed again. "It will be alright, Belaen and Brett will work it out."

"I hope so," Tiene said.

In the middle of the night, the camp was woken by a screeching, hysterical Lexie.

Tiene jolted awake. The pallet beside her was empty. Panic gripped her; where was Camnath? She jumped up to see all the Blades gathering around the undead woman. Louvel and Fyn also came to see what was going on.

Brett grabbed Lexie by her upper arms, trying not to squeeze hard in case he caused her permanent damage. "Lexie! What is it?"

"They are all gone!" She was panting, grunting, struggling to breathe. "All in the north..."

Tiene turned, frantic, scanning all the empty pallets. No! "The Shadows!" she wailed.

Brett turned, his eyes demanding an explanation.

Tiene pointed to the makeshift beds where the Sigils of Shadow usually slept. "That's what Lexie means. They are all gone!"

In the distance, they heard a shout. "Shindu fallah na!"

"No!" Tiene screamed and started in a run toward the shouting.

The Crimson Blades all gathered their weapons and forged ahead to the north perimeter. The sounds of a battle became louder as they approached the barriers.

Tiene ran as fast as she could, wiping tears away with the back of her hand. Her heart was pounding. The clash of steel and sounds of the dying were more of the living than they were of the undead.

Please, do not let us be too late! Please, do not let us be too late!

Camnath!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

*Shindu fallah na! - They're breaking through!

Thank you for reading!!!

All comments, advice and suggestions are most welcome. Should you like this chapter, please be kind enough to vote, it would be most appreciated.