Disclaimer: I don't own Warcraft or F/SN and any related franchise. Derp

This chapter was beta'ed by Bloody Hero who did awesome work making it far better than what I've written. Read and enjoy.

And don't forget to leave a review or something. Before I forget, I'm probably slowing down chapter releases sometime around two weeks from now. So my chapter might come out at 10 to two weeks interval.

-I-

Kael had to keep himself from grimacing at his current situation. As things stood he was seated at a table, and to the side of him was the Guildmaster who was watching over the proceedings. This entire situation taking place in the confines of the latter's office. Kael couldn't help but direct a vicious glare toward Guildmaster Fidelius for what the man had done.

The traitor had not just betrayed him; but it was his setup of events that had caught Kael so flatfooted and unprepared. Kael subtly scanned around the room for a means of escape while maintaining a neutral expression. But his eyes betrayed him; or rather he supposed his thoughts did anyway.

[Xera advises Kael to stop being a child and establish a cordial relationship with Prince Arthas and Princess Jaina. They are essential to the future of Azeroth.]

Kael tried very much not to glare at the blue box.

'This is your fault somehow isn't it?'

[Affirmative. This is both Kael's as much as Xera's fault. His title as a Guardian of Azeroth has positively guided him towards this meeting. How fun!~]

The Guildmaster cleared his throat in an attempt to dispel the awkward atmosphere, he was thoroughly getting more and more uncomfortable as the Mithril ranked adventurer glared at him.

Kael finally relented and spoke.

"So how can I help you Prince Arthas?" Kael asked neutrally. He didn't know that the young paladin he had rescued was a prince, furthermore he was the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Lordaeron at that.

"Okay! Arthas wants to train under you." The young woman at the Prince's side burst out.

"Jaina-" Arthas tried to speak up but was interrupted again.

"And he also has a crush on you!" Kael was momentarily taken aback as he mechanically turned his head towards the blushing male. The Prince was smiling stiffly while trying to quell his embarrassment.

A loud resounding slap was heard across the room as Kael face palmed. Kael remembered how the Prince was carrying a bouquet of flowers as he knocked on his door this morning. His eye twitching at the recollection, now fully understanding what it meant and it not just being simple sign of gratitude aimed at him.

"Pffffft! Kuhuhuhem." The Guildmaster struggled to contain himself. Kael directed another glare at the man but this time, it was full of a massive amount of killing intent that would normally suffocate those in the room if he were to let it. However, this served to be the final nail in coffin. His reaction had the opposite effect on the man than he intended, the Guildmaster being entirely too amused by whole situation that just happened.

"UGAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! A GIRL! GAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHA! I CAN'T BREATH! HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! MUST! HAHAHAHA! BREATH! HAHAHAHAHA!" The Guildmaster couldn't take it anymore and let out his laughter as he rolled on the floor laughing losing all decorum in the process.

"HAHAHAHA! GAHAHAHAHAHAHA!"

Kael deftly grabbed the knives lining his pockets and threw them at the man who evaded them while still laughing with a roll causing Kael's eye to twitch yet again.

'I don't want to deal with this kind of shit this early in the morning! What the fuu-'

Kael groaned into his palms. He didn't like how this day was starting and he knew it could only get worse from here.

[Xera advises Kael to calm down. His increased heart rate and blood pressure indicates-]

'I am calm damn it!'

The former Counter Guardian felt the world was somehow trying to make a joke out of him. Kael could not take it anymore and was about to get the fuck out of this nonsense when the Prince spoke up again.

"Regardless of all that happened just now, I would still like to hire you as a trainer." The Prince said while looking at his face, Kael noted impassively that the Prince did not deny Jaina's previous words. He could only sigh in frustration and attempt to clear things up.

"Okay, first... let me say this to clear things up. I. Am. A. Man!" Kael said enunciating each and every word of his last sentence.

"Wait. That can't be right! Are you sure you're not a girl?" Jaina asked both shocked and curiously.

The bare threads of Kael's sanity were slowly slipping away as this conversation continued. He had never been questioned about his sexuality or even his masculinity before. It was a slap to the face when he heard it the first time. Kael cursed all that was holy and vile at once as he resolved to castrate his sperm donor in the future. He needed something, or someone, to blame for this shit as he was not taking responsibility for it. The perfect target for this was his father, who shared his genes with him.

This would eventually lead to an epic showdown between father and son in the not so distant future, but that was a tale for another time.

"I am a man, Princess." Kael replied coolly to the young woman. "And I don't have the time nor the motivation to train someone right now." Kael said darkly and walked out of the room. He made his way out of the Guild building and into the streets distancing himself from them.

[Xera advises Kael to take it like a girl- err man and get back in there.]

He disregarded Xera's prompts and waved away the blue boxes to get them out of his face. He felt annoyed by Xera's not so subtle jab at his masculinity and proceeded to ignore her.

Kael knew he was acting immaturely but he couldn't stop his body from taking action. He allowed his instincts to take over and lead him back to the inn.

"You seem to be in a bad mood leader Kael." Eglef spoke up from a table as he noticed him entering the dining area. "So what has required your presence at the guild?"

"Nothing important." Kael muttered, his mood still not recovered from the earlier ordeal.

"Uhm, Mr. Elf sir?" A girl's voice called out to him.

Kael turned towards the young woman who called him. He recognized the girl, she was the waitress he had spoken to a few days ago before he set out to take care of the bandit quest. The girl squeaked out cutely when Kael's eyes turned to her.

"What is it?" He asked as he tried to avoid letting his earlier annoyance show on his face or tone.

"Uh, my dad agreed to allow you to cook in his kitchen. Uhm, he also said as long as you clean after yourself and prepare your own ingredients or pay for it, it's alright." The girl said and ran off.

Kael's mood instantly brightened at the news. His steps grew lighter as he went back to his room to collect some of the things he had prepared before hand. He checked through the rations he had previously packed and hadn't had the opportunity to cook yet. After looking through his things he took out a jar from his pack that contained meat that was tightly preserved, heavily spiced, and completely marinated in herbs. With the jar in hand he made his way back.

He hummed a tune as he moved through the inn's kitchen. He received a few curious stares but he ignored them in favor of enjoying the activity he was currently doing. He hadn't cooked food in a proper kitchen for more than a month and it was doing wonders for his mood.

He looked through the inn's pantry and chose the freshest vegetables he could find. With movements that had a certain efficient flair to them, he processed the vegetables and added them to the boiling pot.

The savory scent of his cooking did not go unnoticed. A few guests were looking through the kitchen door along with some of the staff of the inn. They watched as the elf seemed to dance through the kitchen, his face wearing a beautiful expression that would charm anyone of either gender.

The mouth watering sight and smell of cured and marinated meat being turned in the fire, coupled with the aroma of the sweet gentle thick soup, also lured in a certain duo that recently attempted to negotiate with the elf. However, both were instead entranced by what they saw.

When the food was all finally cooked, Kael snapped out of his happy daze. He prepared a bowl of soup along with the servings of the roasted meat dish.

One of the inn's guests, a merchant who was staying in the town for a few days, could no longer hold himself back and spoke up.

"Is that for sale?" The portly man asked.

Kael wanted to say no but the pleading gaze from the hungry onlookers put him in a quandary. He couldn't just say yes due to most of the ingredients being owned by the inn. It would be wrong to deprive them of their stocked pantry even if he could pay it later, yet to outright say no to the hungry guests…

Kael looked through the faces of the crowd only to find the inn owner among them, who apparently was nodding fervently in approval while drooling.

"Y-yes?" Kael couldn't stop himself from saying and being slightly taken aback because of the near obsessed looks on the owner's and everyones faces.

A cheer went out all around with his reply. Everyone on the door scrambled to be the first to have a taste. They were pushing, pulling, and shoving each other to quickly grab a hold of plate of meat or bowl of soup. Various voices bickering throughout the process.

"Hey me first! You scum!"

"That's mine!"

"I was here first! Get your hands off that plate!"

"This was prepared by my waifu! Fuck off you normies!"

That last line definitely was out of place. But first, he needed to have a semblance of order before the situation spiraled completely out of control and into a riot.

"Get in a line." At Kael's words which brook no room for argument, the crowd quickly arranged themselves into a semblance of a line. He would not tolerate any violence to taint the sacred territory of the kitchen.

An hour later, a thoroughly satisfied Kael was eating his own meal while enjoying the reaction on the various people's faces that ate his dishes. The joy of a chef was always a customer's satisfaction after all. His mood was good enough that he was even tolerating the two members of nobility who were sitting across him.

"How can meat taste this good?! Oooh, the meat is melting in my mouth while the spices bring out and enhance the flavor!" The young woman was commentating with each bite while the young paladin beside her was nodding with agreement at every word she said. "I've decided! I don't care if you're a girl! Please marry me so that I may have a taste of heaven for the rest of my life!" The boisterous girl exclaimed seriously.

Kael's party members who were seated at the same table chuckled at her declaration but avoided taking their eyes off their respective plate. The gnome and the gnoll were shoveling the delicious food into their mouths all while eyeing the other's plate. A moment of carelessness would result in disaster, they both thought, as they mentally thought of ways to deprive the other of their food. Both friends seeking any chance to get one more mouthwatering bite for themselves.

After their appetites were sated, their throats slaked, and the war over food between the gnoll and the gnome finished. The people at the table relaxed basking in the afterglow of the meal.

"Damn! That was best meat I've ever tasted!" The gnome said while letting out a burp.

"Indeed, I must say how absolutely divine. Your cooking has transcended unreachable heights Kael." The gnoll commented.

"Yeah! It was the best. Not even the chefs at Dalaran could cook something close to this." The young woman added.

The paladin dared not say a word but he still showed agreement by nodding his head in delight.

"You're an adventurer right? How about I hire you as my cook instead?" The princess asked.

Kael observed the woman before him; he noted that the princess didn't quite act like a typical noble. She seemed more like an outgoing and friendly person to Kael. She didn't have the bearing that Prince Arthas had or the grace that Sylvanas possessed in the presence of others. She was more akin to a normal albeit lively girl who just happened to be born into a royal lineage.

"Sorry, I can't really do that even if I wanted to. There are a lot of things that need to be done before I can settle down and do something like that." Kael replied. For a moment the girl appeared sad, but it quickly passed and she became upbeat again.

"Hey. Sorry about earlier for calling you a girl. By the way, my name is Jaina and this is Arthas! Thanks a lot for helping us out back in the bandit camp, we couldn't have made it out without your help. Well, we could but..." Jaina said before trailing off.

"It's no problem. It's not wrong to help the people in front you." Kael replied by reflex. "As for your request, "he leveled a stare at the Prince", I'm sorry but I can not accept you as a student or your feelings, your highness. And I'm very sure some member's of your order are already on the way to retrieve you."

The Prince flinched at his gaze and looked away.

"Yeah, about that, I'm sure Uther would be really angry right now Arthas." Jaina said absently.

"T-that's I must have you! I mean- I need a reason to have gone here. So please accept my request. I can still tell Uther that I heard about you and wanted to learn your teachings." The Prince pleaded desperately. "I'll do anything; I'll give you an opportunity to owe you a favor, from me, the Crown Prince! So what do you say, Kael?"

"No." Kael said instantly killing off all of Arthas' hope. He didn't want to be the princelings scapegoat. It was not just because he didn't want to deal with this right now; it was also because he didn't have enough knowledge on the political atmosphere of the Kingdom. He wasn't sure if getting close to the Prince would bear good results for him in the future or get him into a whole heap of trouble later. It was better to stay as a neutral party for now lest his activities be hindered in some way or form later on.

It was certainly not because he feared for his behind that he said no.

"It's also partially my fault why we ended up there. So please take Arthas' request! I'm also sure my master would be angry with me if he found out about this, so please?" Jaina pleaded with teary eyes.

Honestly he didn't want to do it. However whether it was past or present, he was always a man who had a hard time ignoring someone else's plight. Kael looked at his two party members who were both nodding simultaneously urging him to agree. After a brief moment to think things over he relented.

"Okay." Kael said with a sigh.

"I'll even arrange for you to get a permit for Dalaran's Ruins Dungeon! Wait- okay? You mean you agree?" The princess asked enthusiastically.

"Yes, if it's a favor from you." Kael said while emphasizing the last part. He spared a glance at the paladin expecting him to be angry somehow but he didn't expect to see the image of the Prince with a smile of bliss on his face with a bleeding nose.

Kael's annoyance for the man intensified into outright repulsion. Kael wiped the annoyance from his mind and concentrated back on the current matter at hand.

He didn't mind if the request came from the young woman. At least with her he didn't have to look out for the same level of political bullshit and potentially being stabbed from behind.

"But I have a condition, princess." Kael said with a serious expression.

"What is it?" The woman asked expecting something difficult or incredibly costly. However, she certainly didn't expect to hear the next words coming out of the elf's mouth.

"Teach me about magic." Said Kael.

"Eh? That's it? Are you sure that's all you're going to ask for? Not increase the reward or maybe ask for a rare magical artifact?" Jaina asked.

Kael wasn't sure how widespread or guarded the knowledge on magic for this world was. His experiences with mages, wizards, or any of the magically gifted of this world were scarce. One of the few he knew with knowledge was Coria, but according to Coria, hers was more of a natural talent with magic than any true skill with it. She just did what she did; her manipulation of plants through arcane and mana was instinctual and hard to explain.

"Yes, as long as you can teach me what you know. Is that alright with you?" Kael asked.

"Of course, I've been given three months of break from my studies so I can teach you in that time! Oh yeah, I nearly forgot. Are you alright with moving to Stratholme for the next three months? We can't really stay here because of my agreement with my teacher and Arthas because he's still a trainee in the Knight Order." The young woman said.

Kael turned to his party members. Kethan was picking his teeth and Eglef stared at each other briefly before nodding in silent approval having no problems with the idea.

"It's fine. Coincidentally, it's also because I'm curious about dungeons and Stratholme has one so that should work out fine." Kael replied. "I just want to ask, when are you leaving?"

"About that... we really should have gone already. But if we have you with us, I think it'll be fine." The young woman replied.

"I'll go to the guild to process your request and accept it. Prepare early tomorrow, we'll be travelling to Stratholme at dawn." Kael instructed and stood up from the table. His party members soon followed after him.

"Is it acceptable to you? I was under the impression you would not accept." Eglef said.

"I don't have any set plans for now. It would be good experience for us to travel to Stratholme, as long as you're both fine with it. Do you have any knowledge about these so called dungeons?" Kael asked.

"Oh yes, we have had the opportunity to delve in Stratholme dungeon before. A strange phenomenon it was, or shall I call it an anomaly? The dungeon seems to be a pocket of space that contains its own rules. According to some people, the dungeons are trials given to us by the gods, the Light, or the Spirits. In my opinion, dungeons seem to be filters of the anomalies in time and space. The appearances of dungeons suspiciously coincide with the disappearance of all contacts with the Bronze Dragonflight.

"They say that dungeons are being managed by the missing dragons. Mere speculation but I suspect those rumors have a grain of truth in them. At the very least it is something worth considering."

Kael remembered the book he had been reading, Tales of Dungeons and Monsters. The book had been a gift from Lirath and it had taken him approximately three weeks before he could read through it all. It was written by a retired elven adventurer who went back home and settled down. The book detailed the adventurer's experiences and knowledge regarding their travels. Half of the book had discussed the existence known as dungeons.

"Can you prepare our supplies for the trip tomorrow?" Kael asked.

"If you have assigned me that duty, I would not neglect my responsibilities leader." Eglef smiled "Now then, I suppose you'll be heading towards the bowyers? I would advise you to go to the carpenter's first leader. The local carpenters more often than not, take side jobs in crafting arrows. It would be more practical and far less costly if you were to go to them."

Kael muttered a quick thanks in reply and heeded the gnoll's advice. He asked the girl working at the inn for directions and was pointed towards the carpenter's location in the area. The rest of the day was spent preparing supplies and taking a rest before the journey tomorrow.

They set off early the next morning with the young paladin and mage hiring a horse and his party members riding on a summoned wolf spirit just like last time. He had decided to forego acquiring a mount and chose to travel on foot instead. First because he didn't know how to ride a horse or any mount, and secondly because it was good training and he was used to travelling on foot.

The Crown Prince had offered to let him ride with him but the glare he had directed at the Prince killed that notion or any chance of it happening from the young man's head.

He swore by all that was holy he would grow a beard somehow just so he wouldn't ever be mistaken for a female again. That or further develop his muscles. Unfortunately, his body type prevented him from developing any exaggerated muscles like a body builder or large warriors. His body was already thin to begin with, but Kael was still hoping he was just a late bloomer and would hopefully buff up more as he grew into adulthood.

Kael felt the wind on his face as he let down the scarf covering his mouth. The wind blew back his hair as he relaxed and ran with the wind. He let out a carefree laugh, his worldly worries forgotten for the moment.

The sounds of his companions were getting further away with each of his steps. He let his mind drift into nothingness as he let his feet move.

It took them three days to reach the city of Stratholme, the second largest city of the Kingdom and the seat of power of the Knights of the Silverhand. Even from afar, Kael could see the city's high towers. Their current pace was a simple trot as they tread upon the cobbled road.

Fellow travelers could also be seen on the road, either heading towards or from the city. Trouble had briefly encountered them when the guards pointed their weapons at Eglef but it was quickly resolved with a few words from Arthas.

They were met with the sight of a bustling crowd as they entered the city gates. Hawkers cries and merchant's bellowing voices could be heard as armed adventurers traversed the streets. The pungent smell of unwashed bodies, animals, and cooking food floated in the air. Colorful banners were spanned over the buildings.

Arthas directed them towards their destination while happily answering their questions.

"The Adventurer's guild is located at the center of the business district which is on the east side of the city. The market is just down this road if you want to buy any food supplies. Smithies and craftsmen are on the south side of the city. The noble district where we're heading to is also where the Order's headquarters are located. You can stay the night there! I'll make sure there won't be a problem." Arthas said as he guided them.

But Kael wasn't too keen on accepting the man's offer.

"We're happy for your generous offer but I'm afraid we cannot impose on your highness' generosity any further than this." Kael snapped while trying not to sound disrespectful. This man was still a noble, more so the next ruler of this Kingdom he reminded himself.

"If you're not staying there, I can guide you to where I'm staying at. It's a nice inn, they even have baths!" Jaina said while grinning.

"You have my thanks." Kael replied.

"Psst... hey Kael, can ya ask them where the nearby pub is?" The gnome sidled next to him and whispered. "Even better, ask them where we can get some titties!"

Kael tried hard not chuckle in amusement.

"You do have your priorities straight, little man." Eglef snorted but did not disagree.

"Come on. I haven't dipped my weewee in a while. It was months ago when I last got laid. I've got a lot stored up for them lucky honeypots." The gnome said while wagging his brows.

"We'll look around later tonight." Kael appeased the excitable gnome.

"What are you talking about?" Jaina asked as she approached them.

Kael did not break stride and the gnome wisely shut up.

"We were just wondering where the dungeon was princess. My companions have passed through here in the past but they hadn't visited the dungeon." said Kael as he quickly came up with a excuse.

"Oh, I can show you there tomorrow if you want, maybe after your lessons with Arthas?" Kael stiffly nodded after being reminded of that particular part of the deal. He also still had to meet with the princeling's teacher, Uther Lightbringer.

"That would be much appreciated, princess. "Kael answered.

"Can you also call me Jaina. It's weird getting called princess all the time." Jaina requested.

"Okay, Jaina." Kael replied.

"Mmh, that's better. Now let's go, I think Arthas is sulking because you're not talking with him." Jaina teased him with a grin.

They arrived at the Paladin Order's headquarters and were directed towards a guest waiting room. Arthas nervously went out first. Minutes later, he came back with a bruise on his cheek and was calling for him to follow.

He was lead to a sparsely decorated room. The only decoration being the Order's banners hung to the side and a few potted plants. Sitting in a chair while sipping on some tea was the man who Kael assumed was Uther Lightbringer.

Kael's first impression of the paladin was a gentle but wise old man. Uther exuded a familiar aura of charisma, dignity, and power that felt almost similar to that of the King of Knights.

Gray hair and a wrinkled face stared at them.

"Greetings, so you must be the young Prince's friend that he has told me about. I apologize that we cannot welcome you in a more appropriate manner. But please have a seat." The Order's leader said in a firm tone that left no room for argument. He set his eyes on his face, examining it. Kael could not help but notice as the man stared at him in surprise but he passed it off.

"I am Uther Lightbringer, the teacher to this young man here." Uther indicated towards the prince. "My student has told me the reason he travelled to Windvale was to learn some of your teachings with the blade. I'm curious that he would go out to seek one as young as you, adventurer Kael." Uther said while looking at him thoughtfully.

Kael merely stared back not unnerved in the slightest. He had been under far heavier gazes before and there was no malicious intent behind his stare just curiosity.

"I'm merely someone who's learned a few things, Sir Uther. I've agreed to teach Arthas so that he could learn how to defend against someone with my style of fighting." The elf replied.

"Ho, you're quite humble for such a high ranked adventurer. What do you say about joining the Order, young man?" Uther offered with an appraising look.

Kael could not help himself and invoked a skill.

'Appraise.'

[Uther Lightbringer

Class: Epic Paladin Warrior

Level 79

Titles: First Paladin, Grandmaster of the Silverhand

Race: Human

Description:

A Champion of the Light and founder of the Paladin Knights of the Silverhand, a devout man who has witnessed and lived through two Great Wars. He has participated in the bloodiest of the battles during the Second War and has achieved great feats that have influenced the tide of the war. In recent years, he has remained a stalwart protector of the people. Vanquishing evil wherever it arises, a knight and cleric but more than that, a symbol of hope to his people...]

Kael briefly read through the box that appeared processing what he read. A protector of the people, he could respect that however….

"I apologize Sir Uther, but I'm not a believer of the Light. I believe in the greatness of mortal men not the compassion of gods." Kael replied brazenly.

The Paladin leader let out a laugh at such a reply. He had met very few men who were this heretical yet honestly righteous.

"I cannot turn you away from your beliefs but I must still say that even if you do not follow our path, I hope that you will be able to teach this young man well." Uther said while looking at his student.

"I will do my best." Kael nodded.

"So what do you plan to in this city aside from that?" Uther inquired.

"I and my companions have been curious about the existence of the dungeon. We would like to visit it." Kael replied

"I suppose so. Adventurers have been increasing lately because of the dungeons existence. They are both a blessing and a curse. However be careful within the dungeons, you never know what creatures lurk within its dark halls. But remember it is the trial it provides that makes us stronger." Uther advised.

"I will consider your words and thank you for the advice, Sir Uther."

"I apologize if this may seem rude but can you tell me who your parents are, young man?" The man asked.

"I grew up in an orphanage. I'm sorry but I haven't even seen my parent's faces." Kael replied solemnly, what he said was technically the truth.

"That is..." The old man trailed off a tinge of sorrow present upon his face.

"It is alright Sir Uther, I've accepted it all a long time ago." Kael said.

"You have a firm gaze, young man. May the Light guide you towards thy righteous quest and may evil shy from your presence. I hope that you'll enjoy your stay in the city." The old man chuckled though his discomfort at the earlier faux pass was still visible.

"Thank you Sir." Kael accepted.

Later that evening, Kael was conversing with Eglef who had gone around the city during the day. Their gnome companion was off to the side drinking while attempting to flirt with a busty barmaid.

"So the Adventurer's guild manages this dungeon? "Kael asked while picking at his food.

"Yes, it seems so. I have inquired at the Guild and they were surprisingly forthcoming with the information. Stratholme dungeon is cleared daily by adventurers but casualties always seem to appear despite that. Most of the deaths are from unprepared beginners dreaming of glory and diving in too deep too soon. Otherwise, the dungeon is safe until the tenth floor. They require adventurers to be at least Gold ranked if they wish to delve deeper until the fifteenth floor, but there's no one to regulate things down there resulting in deaths.

"However with our abilities, I suspect we are able enough to reach the last known floor, the twentieth. What is your plans tomorrow leader?" Eglef asked while biting down on the meat on his plate.

"I've got my job with Arthas in the morning. Are you fine with probing the dungeon until I'm free at noon? Sorry about this..." Kael replied.

"Worry not, leader. We were the one who urged you to teach the young man. We should be the ones apologizing. But enough of that, we still have not officially registered as a party at the Guild. What do you suggest we name our party, leader?" The gnoll asked.

"I say Teats and Wine!" The gnome said despondently returning to them, having failed to get himself laid tonight.

"I propose Silver Grand Mages." Eglef added.

Kael shook his head at their answers. The first was because he did not want to get called the Leader of Teats and Wine and the second because it seemed like violating copyrights and was completely unoriginal. That was aside from the fact that they weren't mages anyway.

"How about Blue Knights?" Kael proposed but was shut down immediately.

"You have terrible naming sense leader. We must choose a name that possesses flair to it, a name for us that will appeal to the masses and be remembered in history. A grand name that none will forget!" Eglef passionately said.

They sat there and thought up names they might all agree on but the process didn't go so well. A name would be said by one of them only to be shut down by the other two. This went on for a while until a recent acquaintance appeared before them.

"What are you doing?" Jaina asked from behind them. "Playing a game?" She asked.

"We are thinking up a party name." Kael replied.

"Huh? How about...hmm, Rune stride. It sounds cool, right?" Jaina said.

"No." Kael immediately replied but the look on his companions faces said otherwise. "How'd you even come up with that name?"

"It's because you travel on foot and you use runes?" Jaina said with a smile.

Kael's eyes turned sharp, even if she appeared to be brash and impulsive, she was knowledgeable and observant enough that she noticed his runes.

"I think it's good! Maybe it can even get me laid tonight if I say it, I'm a member of a Mithril rank party Rune stride!'" The gnome muttered. "I like the name." he agreed and proceeded to scamper off to once again try his luck.

"Do you seriously think-"

"Leader, please consider Lady Jaina's advice. I am of the same opinion that it is a good name." Eglef advised.

"Hehe, that's three to one Kael. You're outvoted." Jaina cheerfully celebrated the victory.

"You're not even a member of the party... never mind. We'll go to the Guild first thing in the morning," Kael conceded, he quickly turned to his side to see a hooded man staring at him. When the man noticed he was looking, he quickly made his way out of the area.

Kael wrinkled his nose at what he had just detected. There was a faint smell of chaotic energy wafting off the man. He reminded himself to watch out for the source of that smell as there were faint traces of it all over the city. He had not noticed it the first time because he could not distinguish it from the other scents. But now, he was sure there was something going on in the city.

He remembered Guildmaster Fidelius' words. Someone had been investigating warlock activity here recently but had disappeared. If that were the case, he noted that they'd have to be fairly skilled and equally powerful if they were able to hide here in the headquarters of a force that hunted down such evil.

He doubted they'd be attacked so openly so he made sure to be aware when his party would be divided and alone.

"Hey, Eglef." Kael said, looking at him in thought.

"Make sure you're careful when you explore the dungeon tomorrow. I've read something about the dangers of the dungeon and one of the things they wrote down was adventurers." Kael explained.

"Oh..." The gnoll nodded. "I am quite knowledgeable on the nature of adventurers, leader. Do not worry and go about your own task tomorrow." Eglef said to reassure him.

Kael trusted Eglef to make a good judgment. He was sure that Eglef would make a pragmatic decision to retreat if they were ever put in danger, even if others may think it a bit cowardly to do so.

The next morning, Kael separated from his party members as they headed towards the dungeon while he went to the Paladin Order's headquarters. He was welcomed by the guard who was posted on duty and was lead to the Order's training grounds members of the order were busy practicing. Most the aspiring paladins were males with a few select of them being muscled and large bodied women among them.

When he appeared, the trainees eyes turned to him.

The tired expressions on the male's faces gained an unusual fervor as they redoubled their efforts into their swings. Some of them even took off their upper clothes and were flexing their muscles for show.

Kael stared jealously at their muscles. He sometimes hated that he was born an elf, he would probably never develop muscles like that in his entire life.

The trainees who had mistaken his gaze for something else competed with each other in showing off. Their antics however were soon interrupted by one of the trainers who saw him.

"I presume you are the tutor that trainee Arthas has mentioned?" A middle aged male inquired with a red face.

Kael looking at his appearance assumed that his red face was most likely from the exertion of training or the heat of the sun.

"Yes, can you please lead me to him right now?" Kael stated.

The man straightened his back and puffed out his chest. He glared towards the trainees.

"Put your backs into those swings! Move your asses you slow pokes!" The man shouted at the trainees before turning back to him. He spoke in a gentle and more even tone towards Kael that was probably man's normal tone. "Please follow me, uh, mis-"

"It's Kael, please call me Kael," he said with a smile.

"""OOOOOooooooohhhh!""" The sudden war cry from the trainees startled him as they moved even faster.

They were definitely motivated Kael noted. They must really like training, he thought.

"Kael, shall I lead you to him then?" The man asked.

Kael nodded in acceptance; it was unknowingly a good timing for both the Order and the former Counter Guardian's sanity. Otherwise he would have overheard the following conversation that occurred a few moments after he left which may have very well set him in a destructive rage against the aspiring paladins.

"Did you see the pretty girl? Damn, she was cute." One trainee said.

"Even that damned instructor was putting the moves on her. I hope we get to see her again." Another spoke up wistfully.

"Mine eyes have healed upon gazing at that beautiful visage." A third male spoke up.

"What are you guys talking about? It's not like it's your first time seeing a girl. I'm a woman too y'know." One of the few females present said.

"Huh? You? You're a muscled gorilla! Not a woman. There aren't any women in the barracks and we trainees aren't allowed to go out. I'm regretting becoming a paladin." The first trainee stated while scoffing.

"Yeah, me too. I thought that once we became paladins, the women would start flocking to us. But no such luck… I hope we can be allowed out for an early break next month, I'm starting to get sick at seeing muscular men all the time!"

"You shits! Who're you calling a gorilla!" roared the insulted woman.

Said gorilla grabbed the two of the male trainees and threw them into the others. This quickly devolved into a fistfight that took all morning to disperse.

-II-

Outside the walls of Stratholme, where the slums were located, armed brigands were moving below ground in the tunnels and sewers. A black haired man in the form of Count Thorne was moving among the rabble with distaste clearly visible on his face. A cloth covered his nose as he looked on the gathered men.

There were more of them gathering just outside the city of Stratholme. Lord Thorne had heard news that almost half of the Paladin Order that dwelled in the city were sent out on a bandit extermination quest. The lure that they had set up, though disrupted had still worked. It was a both a fortune and misfortune that they had previously captured the Crown Prince.

Prince Arthas had been able to escape captivity with the help of the adventurers. It was no doubt bad luck that had killed his brother when the adventurers attacked.

Lord Thorne refused to believe that his brother, an infamous Warlock was slain in such an easy manner. The Prince was reported to have been heading towards Windvale to inquire about a Mithril ranked adventurer who was famed for his skill with blades. According to the gathered information, it was this adventurer who had attacked the bandit camp and killed his brother.

No mundane blade was able to wound his brother's demonic summons. What likely happened was that the Blademaster was able to catch the Warlock by surprise; how else could it have happened otherwise it would have been the Blademaster who died. None of it mattered though to the Count right now.

What was important was that because of the Prince's capture by bandits, they had caught the Order's eyes and in consequence, the public's. Resulting in the urgent deployment of the experienced Paladins to prevent chaos and negative rumors by nipping it in the bud, thus half of the Order was out of the city trying to catch an nonexistent threat.

Stratholme would burn tonight.

They would face no resistance; the remainder of the Order was too outnumbered and inexperienced against their amassed forces. The adventurers were not expected to actively join the fight against them. The few who would? They would die. Then soon, the Capital would follow.

The current Kingdom was already weak and only getting weaker.

"How are the preparations from the Cult?" Lord Thorne asked a messenger who had just arrived.

"They have heavily guarded the dungeon, milord. They've already made preparations on the ritual to break the dungeon's gates. They've reported it would break at dusk if they started now." The messenger delivered.

'All according as planned then', Lord Thorne thought.

After tonight, he would no longer be a Count. He would become a Duke, the ruler of the northern province of the Kingdom. Perhaps even more than that, he had ambition and cunning after all. No one would be able to stop him. This was just his first step on his path to Kingship.

"Go back and deliver this message, 'Proceed with the plans, there are no disruptions. Failure will not be tolerated.'" Lord Thorne stated.

"Yes milord." The messenger departed at once.

Lord Thorne smiled darkly as he waited for darkness to come.

'Tonight, it all begins.' He thought.

All their plans, everything he worked for would come to fruition this night.

-III-

Kael waited anxiously in his room. It had been hours since the agreed upon meeting with his party members. Unable to take it, he stepped outside his room but not before preparing his weapons. He went down the stairs and was about to go to the adventurers guild when he spotted Jaina by chance. He walked towards her with purpose.

Jaina was seated on a table while enjoying some tea and sweets. On the chair beside her was a staff, a magical focal tool. The light of mid noon illuminated the dining room she was in.

Kael took a seat opposite of her.

"I'll be taking a seat if you don't mind." He stated after the fact. "Jaina, have there been any problems in the dungeon?" He asked, probing her for answers.

"Hmm?" Jaina replied with a piece of cake still in her mouth. She lifted the cup of tea and gulped it down to push the food down. "Nothing that I heard of, is there a problem Kael?" She asked.

"I've agreed to meet with my party members a while ago for lunch but they haven't shown up yet. Could there have been a problem I was not aware of that happened this morning?" Kael questioned.

"That... let me think. The only thing I remember was, the portal temporarily malfunctioning a few days ago. But the dungeon fixed it back up and running half an hour later... I don't know if that could've happened again."

"Can you please direct me to where the dungeon is in the city?" Kael asked with impatience, though he had been with his party members for more than a week. He had grown fond of them already, he was not about to let them become dungeon fertilizer if he could help it.

"Let me go with you." The young ice mage said leaving no room for disagreement from him.

"Alright, but please keep close if we are to enter." Kael answered.

"I'm actually really good though. I was just caught that one time with the bandits because of the unexpected surprise attack from behind. Besides I know the dungeon more than you." She said with a pout.

"Yes, little princess. You are so good so please lead the way." Kael stated dryly.

The princess puffed up her cheeks in a pout and went towards the door. Kael soon followed after her in exasperation.

The young woman directed her gaze towards the west side of the city. Heading over they soon arrived at what appeared to be a horizontal golden pool of light that was suspended in an area. Around the 'portal', several merchants and adventurers were either conversing or preparing.

But Kael noticed a group of people off to the side. They seemed to be subtly observing the area unlike the others around them. They were clad in the same mishmash of armor and clothes that other adventurers wore however what set them apart was the alien scent they were emitting. His intuition and experience signaling something was off here.

"Is entrance to the dungeon free?" Kael asked.

"Well, yes-" Jaina answered but was immediately cut off.

"Then let's go, I sense something is about to happen and I want to check it out before whatever it is explodes in our faces." Kael replied.

"Eh?" Jaina asked with a confused look on her face and was about to turn to where he was looking at but was immediately dragged to the portal by Kael.

"Hey! Let go! What's the-" Jaina struggled but one serious glare from Kael silenced her. She complied silently while he dragged her into the glowing portal.

As soon as they entered, Kael let go of her hand and unsheathed his blades. They were in an illuminated hallway with bright gems providing light from the ceiling. At first glance, nothing seemed wrong. But the strong feeling of wrongness and the heavy scent of alien and chaos energy set Kael's mind ringing in panic.

"Something is wrong." He said aloud. "Something is very wrong with this dungeon right now." He didn't know how the dungeon normally was since he had never visited one before but his instincts were telling him shit was about to go down. Considering his luck, he definitely trusted it would.

"Yeah... even from here I can sense fel magic and it's too strong to be just from a single warlock adventurer. This is a group of them at least." Jaina muttered as she readied her staff.

"Let me lead the way. I'm sensitive to magic and I can sense where this is coming from." Kael stated.

"Shouldn't we go back and report this first? I don't want to make the same mistakes as last time..." Jaina added hesitantly.

Kael shook his head.

"No, I sense that if we go back now we won't have the time to stop whatever is about to happen." Kael paused in thought. He looked at the young woman but was cut off before he could speak.

"No! I'm not leaving..." Jaina said but her conviction wilted under his intense gaze.

"Just this once, please listen to me, Jaina. You can also count it as my favor. You still owe me one for accepting the quest from Arthas. Please go to the Adventurer's Guild and report what is happening here." He gently told her.

"But what about you?" Jaina asked clearly concerned for him.

"I can take care of my self. Besides, you haven't even started with your promise yet. You said you'll teach me about magic right?" Kael asked with a light smile.

"Yeah." She let out a sigh. "Okay, I'll go back. But please be careful Kael. You're one of the very few people I can call a friend." She smiled back at him.

"Hahaha, gladly princess, I'll be careful. Don't worry; I've been through worse situations than this." He quipped and turned to make his way deeper into the dungeon.

He heard Jaina's light footsteps heading out of the dungeon before he made his way.

"ᚡᚨᚾᛁᛋᚺ."

"ᛋᚺᚨᛞᛟᚹ."

He activated the inscribed runes on his armor for 'Vanish' to lessen his presence and another rune for 'Shadow' to obscure his form. What remained was a vague shadowy silhouette that would not register in a normal person's field of vision.

Kael silently made his way through the dungeon's wide hallways. The ceiling was more than twenty five feet high, massive Greek like pillars supported it. He ignored the various adventurers and monsters he met on the way focusing on the task he set out for.

The gems that lit the dungeon were spread out in a way that there would always be shadows at certain places. 'A perfect place for an ambush' he thought. Kael did not know how far he ran or how many corridors he crossed but the scent was only getting more overpowering the deeper he went.

He actively circulated magic through his body to make sure he wasn't caught unaware.

When he finally reached the source of it all, what appeared at the end the hallway surprised him.

A dragon was chained to the ground and beneath it numerous ritualistic drawings and symbols were inscribed. The dragon actively struggling from its restraints and letting out roars that shook the chamber. It was small one, only thrice the size of a horse but still it had enough strength to make minor vibrations in the ground with its movements.

Kael surveyed the area. Five mages were chanting around the dragon. Aside from them, there were six other people within the room. He analyzed the enemies he would face; three swordsmen, two mages and an archer. An annoying combination if he was caught by them. If they were able to set up their battle formation and effectively work together, they would potentially be able to stall him possibly allowing the mages to finish the ritual. He needed to deal with this fast. He didn't know if the five mages would interrupt their own ritual and join in the fight if he showed up but it was better to deal with them quickly regardless.

Without revealing himself, Kael placed his blades on the ground and unslung his bow. He didn't know if they had some way to detect him or protect themselves from an ambush but it was always better to be cautious and maintain a safe distance until he attacked.

He took an arrow aiming it at the mage while positioning himself near the other one. He held his breath and counted down.

Upon reaching zero, he let the arrow fly immediately swapping his bow in favor of his blades. Not waiting to see the arrow hit, he was already upon the other mage. Leaping into the air, he decapitated the second mage and headed for the archer while ignoring the spurt of blood behind him.

One of the warriors was startled by his sudden appearance but immediately reacted by raising his weapons. It was futile; Kael slipped to the side out of the warrior's sight and appeared at the archer's side cutting through him. The archer's upper body slid off and plopped down on the ground. The first warrior charged at him with his sword raised over his head. Kael did the same and sliced the warrior from his shoulders to his torso in a single slash.

The warrior stared at him in confusion right till the moment he died.

Kael turned towards the last warrior who was too stunned to react from what had just happened. He cut him down without mercy. The mages who were performing the ritual had not reacted at all to the brief battle. If that was the case, most likely they were unable to stop the ritual they were working on once casted. It would explain why the others he just dealt with were there and why they didn't do anything to help stop him. Kael's steps were directed towards the group conducting the ritual.

Defenseless as they were, the mages were sitting ducks as he cut their heads off one by one. It took less than twenty seconds to execute them all.

With the death of the last mage, the chain that bound the dragon broke with little effort. Kael stared curiously at the device they had used to bind it. The black barbed chains had come from inside a small jar it seemed.

"Who are you? What happened to me?" The dragon's decidedly male voice echoed in his mind.

The dragon appeared to be docile. It made no other movement aside from lifting itself off the ground. Its bronze scales glinted from the glow of the dungeons light.

"I don't know what happened to you but I knew those warlocks were about to use you for something. Who are you?" Kael asked.

"I am the Tezardomu, guardian and manager of this space that you mortal races call dungeons. I had been going about my duties when these strange chains appeared out of nowhere capturing me and dragging me upon this place." The dragon replied.

"Do you remember anything that happened? What they had been doing?" Kael asked.

"I cannot remember anything. I apologize, but I must return to my duties at once before this space is unraveled by time and space! Please return to this place at a later date, until then please find a way out of here." The dragon disappeared in flash of light leaving Kael to stare at the corpses left behind by his recent handiwork.

Then the dungeon began to shake violently. Kael stared at the concentric figures and geometric shapes on the ground. He moved back slowly as they lit up in a bloody red light. A message box soon appeared to in front of him.

[Xera concludes that the ritual was used to get the monsters spawned from the dungeon out into the city. The ritual has not been fully completed but it has forcefully taken the remaining fel energy from the dead warlocks and is using it as a blunt force attempt to break the dungeon's gates. There is a 50% chance of this succeeding. Xera advises Kael to leave the dungeon immediately.]

"What?! Explain Xera!" Kael shouted over the rumbling of the dungeon while running at full speed out of the place.

[The dungeon is correcting itself. It does not have enough energy to delicately repair by detail so instead it is restarting everything.]

"Fuck!" Kael cursed. This whole situation escalated into full FUBAR! Quickly he made his way through the floors until he was finally able to make it out, only to be met with the sight of the city burning in flames. What bothered him further was the dark night sky. He should have only been gone for not more than an hour or two yet it was already dark. At least there weren't any monsters spawning from the portal behind him as well.

Kael muttered another curse and shot an arrow at an eyeless horned reptilian alien dog chasing a weaponless adventurer who was screaming his lungs out. An explosion could be heard further inside the city.

People who weren't fighting were scrambling for places to hide.

He grabbed a panicking man from the streets and asked him a question.

"What's happening!?"

"Hell if I know! Let go of me!" The man said and escaped from his grasp.

Kael cursed again, the only options he had were to head towards the Adventurer's Guild or go to where the explosion happened. No doubt it was where things were likely to be centered on, which just so happened to be in the direction where the Order's headquarters was located as he recalled.

'It's better to get a vantage point of the city and get a sense of what's happening.'

He decided to scale up a building and look down at the view from above. From there, he was able to locate the highest building in the area aside from the Paladin towers, that being the Merchant Guild's building. With a heavy sigh he grabbed his bow and got to work after arriving at his chosen point. Luckily he could see most of the city from his location. Seeing the mass od invaders down below.

His sight was clear as day under the faint light of the moon in the sky above as he took aim.

He ignored the shocked and confused looks on the adventurers and the guards faces as his arrows hit upon the enemies they were fighting.

Kael travelled over the rooftops slowly making his way towards the Knight Order headquarters while killing all the enemies in his sight and saving whoever he could. There was no lack of number of enemies. From ragtag bunch of armed bandits to heavily armed mercenaries, however he noted whoever was instigating this attack lacked capable personnel to lead it. While there were a few trained knights among the bunch, they were still unable to fully control their undisciplined men.

Kael let another arrow loose towards the head of a commanding officer. The mercenaries looked around but were unable to find the source of the arrow. Kael let them feel the fear of invisible death lurking around them. This act served to demoralize enemy forces and send them into a panic with some running away. Unfortunately, as much as he would like to get them all he didn't have enough arrows for everyone.

He was even forced to use two to three arrows on some of the summoned demons. From what he had seen so far the enemy forces was a coalition of warlocks, knights, mercenaries, and bandits. He was not surprised that the city was burning right now. Instead he was surprised at how they were able to get inside like this in the first place.

"AYIYIYIYIYIYIYIYIYI!" a loud cry echoed throughout the area.

Kael turned his eyes to locate where that unusual war cry was coming from. He was sure only a certain hotheaded gnome shouted like that when he went into battle.

Surely enough, Kael was able to find his party members helping defend the gates of the city with a squadron of paladins. Archers stood at the walls, firing arrows into the fray. They were locked in a pincer movement by enemy forces from both outside and inside. But still, the gates had not yet fallen. It was mostly due to the difference in quality between the two forces.

The paladins while small, were an elite force that was well-disciplined and organized. Their enemies, though outnumbering them by more than ten to one were dying like weeds as they were funneled into a tight location which favored the group of paladins. It was a one-sided slaughter at the moment, but who knew how long they could keep it up before exhaustion took its inevitable toll. After all, quantity did possess a quality of its own.

Kael was able to find the key figures in this group of enemies. He saw three warlocks step forward and begin chanting. Warlocks were tricky enemies to deal with, especially the ones whose appearances were straying into more demonic than human forms. Fortunately, these warlocks still looked closer to humans and most likely not too far along their path.

Without hesitation, he let his arrows loose. The explosion of gore and immediate death that followed further demoralized the enemy. The warlocks' heads popped like a watermelon as the arrows hit them in the head. He had been expecting some form of resistance but he supposed they were killed before they could bring up any magical defenses to bear.

Kael soon heard another explosion. Moments later, an unholy cry echoed across the city. The smell of alien chaos grew stronger once again. Kael turned towards the direction of the source from his vantage point atop the merchant building.

He spotted Uther Lightbringer fighting against two demons by himself. The first demon was a red humanoid with a crown of horns on his head; its massive body easily outsized the Elite Paladin by more than twice. What put Uther even more of a disadvantage was the winged demonic warlock behind him. His movements were slow and strained as if he was being bound by chains, and his skin was turning purple.

Green flames sprouted from the demon's arms towards the Paladin. Kael could see the strain and suffering Uther was under. Even someone as powerful as him was being pushed back by the combined might of the two creatures.

Kael grabbed another arrow from his quiver. He only had less than a dozen left. The thousand arrows that he filled his dimensional quiver with previously filled with were already depleted to this extent. 'It should be enough for a bit longer' he thought.

With a bit more of concentration, he altered the arrow to be sleeker, sharper, and more durable as he moved his energy through his bow. Though it was made of a magic metal, it was still not durable enough to take more than a few reinforced shots. He estimated the bow's life at a total of seven shots. But still, he needed enough power to kill that demonic warlock in a single hit.

Demonic warlocks were troublesome enemies. This one's appearance was already undoubtedly beyond a human. The fel energy had corrupted him to turn him into an immortal demon.

He only had one chance at this to take him down quickly.

With steady aim and controlled breath, he let loose his arrow towards the warlock. Kael saw it collide with a spherical blue shield that strained against it. He grimaced, that was not part of the plan.

He quickly nocked another arrow but the demon warlock was already able to locate him within that span of time. Kael let the arrow loose and leapt off the building. A second later, he felt the fire scorching of his back as he deftly landed on roof of a lower building. Kael saw the winged demon heading towards him with a green flame in its hands. He was forced to do another roll as he evaded the fireballs being rained down upon him. He prepared another arrow while evading his pursuer's attacks.

Kael narrowly evaded to the right just as a green fireball exploded where he had been standing a moment before. His body felt the heat released from the explosion showing how close it really was.

"Xera! Do you have any advice on killing immortal beings!"

[Xera advises Kael to destroy the demon's physical shell to banish him to the Twisted Nether. But with Kael's current strength, he is unable to penetrate the warlock's mana shield. Xera advises Kael to channel the Light's energy to strengthen his arrows.]

"HOW!?" Kael shouted while making a dash to the left. Another fireball exploded behind him.

[Kael must use the skill 'Arcane Shot'. But he must filter the light from the arcane energy. Xera will assist Kael in this endeavor. There will be slight changes on Kael's physical appearance when channeling light-]

"Just do it!" He shouted as he felt a fireball tag him on his right arm. He grimaced in pain. This was why he hated flying enemies. More specifically, he hated magical flying creatures specifically trying to kill him.

Kael noted he had reached the end of the business district and was about to reach the residential area. No choice he noted, he had to end this here and now. There was a greater chance of some innocent bystander getting hurt if he prolonged this any further, especially since he was already seeing a few civilians below.

He reinforced the bow in his hands to take one last empowered shot. He followed the knowledge that was flowing into his mind. He felt a slight imbalance in his movements as he felt his body change. However, he focused on the task at hand.

Light energy is the representation of order. It neither good nor evil, it is merely a force. Light exists as a fundamental existence in the universe.

Kael allowed the energy of light to course through him. It was like he had been using this power for years. He felt the strange energy temporarily bind a part of himself. Constructs of light formed behind him in the form of wings.

As he leapt of from the rooftop, he turned in the air and aimed at the demon. With a smirk, he let it loose.

The arrow he used this time was one of his rare mithril tipped arrows. Combined with the light, the arrow appeared like a beam of holy energy going straight through the demon.

The arrow was able to shatter the flickering mana shield and blew a hole on the demon's body. The confused expression on the it's face told him it did not expect that. Slowly, as the demon disintegrated, it exploded into a shower of colorful crystals.

Kael let out a satisfied laugh as he fell towards the ground. With catlike reflexes, he landed without injury. Kael looked at the remnants of his bow. Sadly it was beyond repair, it was a waste. There were very few bows that were able to take his reinforcement as far as this one had.

Around him, the stunned expressions on the people's faces as they looked at him confused him. He felt the construct of light behind him fade away but the remains of the energy remained.

He mindlessly unsheathed the swords at his side and parried a strike from a mercenary. With the man's guard open from the attack, he cut him down. He had landed right in enemy territory, Kael thought with grim amusement. His eyes turned hard and he let his magical energy reinforce himself to the limit, along with it he channeled the light energy once again.

His movements became faster, his muscles stronger. But the strange feeling as he moved slightly disturbed him. He ignored this in favor of focusing on the battle.

It was a slaughter.

The mercenaries were outclassed in skill, weaponry, and physical capability. Not even the knights provided a challenge. Some of the mercenaries decided to either surrender or flee. He spared them. A part of his mind told him to cut them all down but he quashed it.

With blood dripping from his body, he made his way towards the Paladin barracks. He arrived at the scene of a wounded Arthas piercing his sword into the demon from behind. Uther was leaning on his Warhammer for support, barely able to stand.

The last of the Light energy faded from his body.

"Why? Why!? How could we possibly have failed! Where had it all gone wrong!?" The demon shouted while keeling over. "I'll remember this! I'll remember this you foolish mort-" Kael chose to slice the demon's head in half to stop its uninspired threats.

He approached Uther who had fallen to the ground unable to stand up any longer. His lips were purple and his veins were visibly bulging from his face. "Get me a rejuvenation potion." Uther hoarsely said.

Kael turned towards Arthas who was fumbling in his pockets. He brought out a heart shaped bottle containing a pink colored liquid. Kael stared at it dubiously but proceeded open and flip the bottle into Uther's mouth. The Elite Paladin's complexion slowly returned to normal with each gulp. Only then did Kael notice something was off.

He stared at Uther's right arm, or rather, where it used to be. The wound had been cauterized to stop the bleeding but it was not healing. Kael could smell faint traces of the alien magic on it.

He stared at the wound but hesitated.

Kael was brought out of his reverie when a paladin approached them. He recognized the man as the trainer he had met this morning.

"Is Sir Uther alright?" The man asked with concern.

"He is fine but his hand..." Kael pointed towards the stump.

"That, I'm sure we'll be to get help in healing it from Church of Light. Do not worry about that milady."

Kael did not pay attention to the words in favor of examining wound. He was staring at the stump as it healed in a near cellular manner. But the malefic energy yet remained.

He stood up and looked at the disintegrating body of the demon.

"Sir Dryden, is there no way to permanently kill a demon?" Kael asked.

"I'm afraid not, demons are immortal. We have known of demons in the past that had been killed multiple times but still continue to reappear. There are very few cases where demons have been claimed to have truly died but we cannot verify those claims nor do we know what the condition were." The paladin trainer answered.

Kael approached the corpse and placed his palm on it. He covertly cast analysis on the corpse while muttering.

"Appraise."

[Brer'thaver

Class: Warrior

Level 75

Race: Demon

Description: ...-]

The description was missing.

[A demon can only be killed in the Twisting Nether or a land saturated in fel. There has been no known method available of killing them.]

Kael ignored Xera. The thought had entered his mind ever since he seen the vision of his undead self from Medivh. Demons could not be killed. In a sense, they were similar to Heroic Spirits from his previous world. Demon's souls returned to the Twisting Nether when their bodies were destroyed. But that monster, Kael'drin refused to acknowledge him, that Undead Ruler killed the demons.

He tried to remember what he saw. He understood how he did it... but there was something missing.

'Καταβρέξτε τις ψυχές τους.'

Kael pulled his hand back as if it had been burned.

'Καταβρέξτε τις ψυχές τους.'

The foreign voice whispered to him. He did not understand the words that were said to him, but he understood the intent... because it was his own voice that spoke to him.

"Devour their souls..."

Kael's eyes glazed over as green wisps of energy from the corpse gathered into his palm.

"Devour them."

"Καταβρέξτε τις ψυχές τους."

The last thing Kael remembered was the burning pain that threatened to constrict his heart that spread to the rest of his body and made him faint.

-IV-

Arthas stared worried at Kael as she lay there unmoving. He didn't quite care about Kael's gender anymore. The strange feeling in his chest worsened as he stared the elf's unmoving form. That gallant figure whom did not fear the constraints of gender and wielded a bow and blade better than any man.

He admired Kael's strength and character. The elf was the first person who was not of nobility to ever speak against him. He did not understand his own feelings. Was he attracted to Kael as a man was to a woman or did he simply admire the elf because Kael seemed unobtainable? Man desires that which they cannot obtain or so they say.

Arthas still wasn't sure why Kael was hiding her gender. He was sure that Kael was using some kind of expensive artifact to hide his true face. Then he remembered Sir Uther's words.

'Kael is someone of great importance among the elvese. Make sure no harm befalls her. The Light only knows war may happen if something happened to her. Be persistent and follow her whenever possible. But do not let her know that what I have told you.'

Arthas walked to the window to shift aside the curtains, letting the cool air enter. He went back towards the bed and fixed Kael's blanket. He went back to his seat to contemplate about the complicated matters that Kael represented.

Within the city, Kael's fame was steadily growing as rumors spread about the Angel of War who fell from the heavens. The rumors took a life of their own as every one of them became wilder than the last.

They say the Angel was an unequaled beauty. They say that no blade or arrow could ever injure the Angel. They say that the Angel was a daughter of Elune, the Night elven God, and the Light, the manifestation of Order. The rumors had grown so exaggerated to the point that a cult of her had even begun. In a way perhaps it was a small mercy that main subject of these talks wasn't awake to hear all this. For surely the former Counter Guardian would groan in sheer frustration vexed at the absurdity of it all.

"Hey did you really see the Angel?"

"I did! I tell ya, who else could it be when she flew up to the sky and the moon shone down on 'er, the winged demon was pierced by a beam of light!"

"I was on the roof when I saw her too! She was so beautiful..."

"Bah! You haven't seen what I seen! Yester night we were battling' with thousands! Our backs were to the wall when she dropped from the heavens like an Angel of Light. With her swords which were made from the stars of the night and rays of the sun, no arrow touched her and even the enemies' spears were turned aside with but a gaze!"

"Hey Edric, you believe any of that shit?"

"I'm not really sure either."

"Huh? Don't tell you believe in that steaming pile o' shit. I took you for someone smarter than that."

"It's not that. I was saved thrice yesterday because of arrows that were coming out of nowhere. I should have died several times over but I didn't. I'm pretty sure there was no archer around where I was fighting from either."

"Beautiful? Keh, they didn't see her when she was dripping with blood and showered with guts."

Said subject of the rumors was still currently asleep and they did not know when the elf would awake. Two nights had already passed and the news about the event had spread out even more.

Arthas heard a knock at the door. He stood up, annoyed. At the door were Kael's party members, the pervert gnome and the suspicious gnoll.

"May we please enter, your Highness?" The gnoll asked politely.

Arthas nodded stiffly and moved out of the way as the two entered the room, a short while later, another knock was heard.

Eglef elected to open it himself. Jaina then entered the room uninvited. She was surprised when she saw the two.

"How are you Eglef? Kethan?" Jaina asked.

"We are doing fine, Lady Jaina. Might I ask how the rebuilding is going along? "Eglef asked.

"It's going better than I had expected. The Adventurer's Guild even asked me to pass along a message to my teacher. They want wizards to help with the effort. In exchange the guild is sharing the rights to the dungeon." Jaina replied.

"That's... very generous of the Guild." Eglef said while stroking his chin in thought.

"I'm not telling more than that!" Jaina exclaimed when Eglef looked at her.

"Yes, I would not be so presumptuous milady. But I already have a few guesses on what the adventurer's guild want. I don't doubt wizards would let this go either. It's a rare opportunity provided by the dungeon itself after all..."

"Eh? How'd you know that already? I thought it would take you a few more days before you'd catch on to it. You're really sharp Eglef! Hey, do you want to learn magic as Kael's substitute? I can't really teach him as he is right now." Jaina said while looking at the elf.

"Apologies milady, I appreciate the offer but it was with our leader that you have made a deal with. It would be rude of me to accept such an opportunity in his stead." Eglef said.

The gnome had been quiet for the entire conversation, which was surprising to say the least. Until they saw he was just asleep anyway.

"Kethan must be tired after running himself ragged yesterday. There were a lot of criminals among the ones who attacked the city. I doubt most of them surrendered willingly." Jaina said.

"It's something we cannot possibly miss, multiple quests which will be added to our party's name. With this, it should be possible for us to become the first Adamantium ranked party upon the coming examinations." Eglef said.

"So you're also joining in on that? Then I'll let you know, the last and greatest part of the exams are actually just fighting matches. It's part of the effort from the guild to reassure the people they're still there." Jaina said.

"You have impressive and extensive information network as always milady." Eglef said in praise.

"Hehe, Arthas always calls me brash. I'm actually really smart though! By the way... uh, do you know what happened to Kael?" Jaina asked.

"We do not have clue, unfortunately. During that time, just as we left the dungeon, news of the attack was already spreading within the city. We had chosen to provide our assistance where we knew we were most needed. That being the gates as you might have heard." Eglef said.

"Yeah, I'd heard similar things from some adventurers. They're saying there's something like a time lag when they left the dungeon. When, I checked this morning everything seemed to be alright... and yeah, Kael was worried when you didn't show up from the dungeon. Luckily nothing bad happened." Jaina said.

"We need be thankful for the small blessings in life milady." Eglef said.

"I can't wait for Kael to wake up! I just hope he'll take those rumors well. I think he might go berserk if he actually hears that a statue of him as the Angel is being built near the dungeon..." Jaina said.

"I shall do my utmost best to allow no such event to happen... but I make no promises" Eglef muttered in a low voice.

A bloodbath would most likely ensue if he learned about it.

-V-

Aiden Perenole, the rightful King and ruler of Alterac raged in his throne room. The messenger who had brought forth the news quailed under his gaze.

"Fail! That demon failed! But he said he would bring me Uther's head! Damn incompetents! All of them!"

The King's guards stared impassively at the man beneath the woman beneath the King's feet. Her face was beyond recognizable as the King beat her with his scepter. They could not let any weakness show on their faces as they grit their teeth. Any word of opposition would be dealt with harshly. Not just them, even their families would suffer.

That was why no one helped the whimpering woman who was being beaten to death. Better her than our wives or daughters they all thought even if some regretted their inaction.

After the King's tantrum was over, he discarded his bloody scepter and marched out of the room.

His destination was the Wizard Tower. But rather than a wizard's it would be more appropriate to call it a Warlock's tower. A door in the tower was loudly slammed open as the King walked into the room. A gaunt robed man walked to meet the King.

"What can I do for you, your Majesty?" The warlock asked.

"The demon we sent to Stratholme has failed! What can we do about it!?" The King asked.

"Your Majesty... was it not you who suggested it? You said you wanted Uther Lightbringer dead... but we don't have enough-"

"Silence! Silence! The failure is still your fault! Now tell me, do we still have enough forces to attack the Capital City!? I will not tolerate more failure than this!" The King said.

"Of course your Majesty. We have accounted for failures. Please do not worry. The Kingdom of Lordaeron will soon be yours... now please calm yourself. Now... why don't you visit the new slaves we have your Majesty? I hear they have brought in some beauties recently? Please do not worry about our plans... we have everything under control..." The warlock persuaded the King.

The King's eyes gleamed like a child's at the warlock's words.

"Very well… I will forgive you this one time. But I still want Uther Lightbringer dead!" The King said and turned back out of the room.

Making sure he was gone, the warlock dropped the pleasant and submissive attitude he previously displayed.

"Humph, disgusting fool. It was simple how easily he was influenced further by fel energies. He only needed a small nudge to give in to his desires." The warlock said.

A small winged shadow appeared beside him the imp landed on his shoulders and spoke.

"Why don't you just kill that thing? He seems very unpleasant. Why do you continue to take orders from it?" The demon asked.

"He is necessary for our plans. My deal with that person is to weaken the Kingdoms of Lordaeron. Even if he fails, that would still fulfill my objective." The warlock said as he walked back to his lair.

"It's a pity this entire event turned out to be a waste of resources. We sent ten apprentice warlocks hoping they could return with some experience but instead they were all killed. How unfortunate…" The warlock said. "Still, they were able to gather valuable information for us... including the existence of that high elf."

"Isn't it someone sent by the High Council? She could just be a spy." The demon said.

"It is a likely possibility. Sadly, we don't have any information about the warriors of Quel'thalas... but I am very interested in her. An elf who does not just contain fel energy... but produces it. If Brer'thaver was saying the truth that is..." The warlock said.

"I still doubt it. A being that naturally produces fel energy but is neither a demon or an evil creature? Brer'thaver might have made a mistake." The demon said.

"Even so... it is worth looking into. Don't you think?" The warlock said.

"I don't really care. As long as we cause enough chaos and I get to eat I'm fine. "The demon said.

The warlock chuckled.

"Yes. Chaos... with chaos comes opportunity... We will throw Azeroth into the fires so that I may gain the chance for more power..." The warlock said as he stared at the large amount of fel energy being gathered into a large man sized sphere that was placed above his abode's ceiling.

The negativity and death from below was being absorbed into the round clear orb making the energy within turn from greenish to red. The wails of despair from the trapped souls tickled the warlock's ears.

"With this power... we will become Gods among men..."

Note:

I have a perfectly valid reason (read: excuse - it's not because I just added it for the lols or something...maybe) why Arthas is actually drawn to Kael, and a few others would too. Not gonna explain it here though.

Added note:

Kael is a Male, gonna explain it a bit here since most of you guys seem to allergic to the gender bender genre, it's not that bad right? Okay before I go off tangent again here's a hint. Something happened when Kael accepted Xera's proposal during the mini boss fight.

Also, I'll be accepting some of your suggestions for party members. Not gonna say it her either. That would be spoiling. If you're observant though, you'll notice that I don't like stereotpyes. So the unusual ones are likely to be added.

To answer some reviews(I'm not gonna answer some reviews for the character suggestions cause that would be telling):

Rankin de Merthyr: Yeah, that's where my inspiration for Anna(Nana) came from. Awesome novel with great humor.

ATiredDude: Thanks. I dunno if I could make it work. But I'll do my best to develop all of them though. I welcome feedback if you think I'm ignoring one character tho.

PharmPotato: Uh.. for the energy... wait. I think I explained that bit or something but I'll just have to emphasize it on the coming chapters then. Screen time for Arthas and Jaina? it will actually take time for me to show all the characters. More so because of how many more I'll be adding but you'll just have to see on the upcoming chaps.

Nyanmato: A sword maiden or priestess eh? I like the sound of that. But you'll have to get something else... which I won't answer either, hehe. :P

plums: The timeline at this point is 4 years before the plague actually. So expect some upcoming time skips after this arc. Further event about other places will be on the upcoming interlude. And I'm not gonna answer question about the plot either.

vincentiusnatalus: I'm actually gonna try something similar but altogether different from what you just said about a Universal class, look forward to it. :D

chm01: He is still a knight/paladin trainee at this point so yeah. He doesn't have his hamma yet

REQUIEMCROSS: Not gonna answer plot questions.. sorry 'bout that. You'll just have to wait for it.

Aesir19: Not gonna say anything 'bout the character suggestions as stated above. But yeah, I don't like overusing the gamer element either. Makes an otherwise good story bland sometimes.

SoSlimShady: I guess that's a valid question I'm allowed to answer. He'll probably have 4, but I'll add one more if it works. Can't really tell because the story seems to be writing itself. lol. I'm not going beyond 5 though, I swear on that.

OnyxReaper1: I did read Overlord, stoped at Vol 11 tho, and yeah. I remember Momonga doing something like that. I'm gonna consider your suggestion though and thanks for that.

Cya all next chapter which would still be Thursday(PST) next week.