The Morning After June 29, 2007

Mabon awoke in Shattrath, feeling as if a kodo had stomped on her head. She washed, and changed clothes, choosing a modest dress, and headed for the Temple of the Moon. Kneeling in prayer next to the Moonwell, Mabon let the tears flow down her face. Why had she been so foolish? When would she ever act like the grown woman she told everyone she was? Would Kel forgive her?

She felt a hand on her shoulder, and quickly wiped her face before turning around. It was Tyrande Whisperwind! Mabon jumped up, and tried to bow, but became lightheaded, and lost her balance. The Priestess gently caught Mabon, and helped her sit down.

“You are ill, my dear. You need rest and healing.” Mabon turned pale hearing the words. Now Kel’s mother would know how foolish she had been. What would she to do Mabon? The tall, beautiful Kaldorei concentrated a moment, focusing her healing energies, then cast the spell onto Mabon. Mabon’s head cleared, her headache and dizziness gone.

Tyrande walked over to one of her aides, speaking to her quietly. The other priestess nodded, then hurried off. Tyrande returned to where Mabon sat. She knelt and looked at Mabon, concerned. “This is not an illness I am familiar with, my child. I have sent for the midwife, Elindilis, to look at the babies you carry.”

Mabon hung her head in shame. “This is my own doing, I’m afraid. I … um… I…” Tyrande waited patiently, in silence. When Elindilis arrived, Tyrande nodded at her, motioning her to come closer. Mabon knew she would have to confess, for the sake of the dragons. “I was foolish last night. I had several drinks…some Darkmoon Reserve, and some grog. I… um… I’m no longer used to such strong drink. I stopped when I discovered I was with child, but … last night…” her voice trailed off in embarrassment and shame.

Elindilis gasped, then moved forward, kneeling in front of Mabon, her hands on the young woman’s belly. Tyrande stood, her face hard. “We shall move to a chamber.” She walked away, and Elindilis and Tyrande’s aide assisted Mabon to her feet. They walked with her the short distance to a small chamber, and helped her recline on a settee. The midwife again placed her hands on Mabon’s round belly, concentrating. Tyrande stood at the edge of the chamber, her arms folded, and her face stern. Mabon bit her lip, waiting to hear if her foolishness was worse than she thought. Dwarven culture insists on stout throughout a pregnancy, feeling that it is good for the body. Although this attitude was common in Mabon’s life as she grew up, she knew that the Kaldorei did not tolerate alcohol the same way.

Elindilis stood and cast several spells over Mabon, then turned and spoke quietly with Tyrande. A slight look of relief washed over the High Priestess’ face, and she nodded, dismissing the midwife. Mabon tried to sit up, but the aide placed a hand on her shoulder, keeping her down.

Tyrande walked over to Mabon. “The children are unharmed. Elindilis tells me they are strong and healthy. But this type of behavior will not be tolerated. These children are far too important to be treated with such disregard. I will take whatever steps necessary to ensure the safety of these children.”

Mabon swallowed hard, and nodded. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean any harm… I never thought it would hurt them. I mean, others told me it might… but… that’s just so different to me…” Mabon began to cry again, and Tyrande’s face softened, realizing just how afraid and upset the young woman was. She sat down on the edge of the settee, and motioned the aide to leave them alone. Taking Mabon’s hand in her own, with her other hand, she lifted Mabon’s chin so she could look her in the eyes.

“Tell me what troubles you, my child.”

Mabon gulped back her sobs, and began to spill out all her worries: fear of becoming a mother, fear of losing her freedoms, fear of missing out on the joys of her young life, and the deep loneliness she felt during Kelandros’ long absences. The words tumbled out of her, often making no sense, more tears flowing down her cheeks.

Tyrande, true to her nature as the protector and caretaker of her people, wrapped her arms around the frightened and confused young woman, and held her as she sobbed, allowing her strength to flow into Mabon.

Celebrations June 28, 2007

After her nap, Mabon headed down to Gadgetzan, to finish up some business there. Still determined to advance her training, she headed south. While ridding a cactus garden of some elementals, she ran into Laiyne. The two of them teamed up for a bit, but their fighting styles didn’t mesh well. Mabon found herself becoming more and more irritated with her friend. When the task was finished, they headed back to town. Laiyne took care of some things at the bank, and with the vendors, while Mabon grew restless. A Draenei struck up a conversation with her, asking about her mace. Mabon proudly showed it to him, explaining it was a wedding present from Daddy, and that a friend had enchanted it for her. He asked her how she enjoyed being a paladin, and she giggled at him. “Daddy wanted me to be a paladin like him, but I was no good at it. I followed a different path, as a rogue.”

The tall Draenei laughed with her. “Oh, in that case, could you open a few boxes for me?”

Mabon happily obliged, but noticed the man looked worried. “What’s in these things? Is it dangerous? I’ve never had anything like this before.”

Giggling, Mabon explained they were just like treasure boxes, filled with wonderful items. “Open it,” she urged. He did, and exclaimed over the armor inside. “See? It’s like getting a present. I love helping people with those.” He offered to pay her, but she waved it away. “I never charge people for that. I’m always happy to help others.” He bowed low, then muttered a prayer, waving his arms at Mabon. Instantly she felt stronger, rested and ready to continue training. She looked around for Laiyne, but she was still busy, haggling with a vendor. Mabon called good bye to her friend, but didn’t wait for a response. Summoning Nimbus, Mabon set off back towards the southern tip of the continent.

Not long after, Mabon was tired, but very proud of her accomplishments. “Time to celebrate,” she said to Mouse. Mouse loved Tanaris. It was like a giant sandbox, just for him, and he thought chasing scorpids and basilisk was a big game. He wasn’t too fond of the hyenas, but Mabon always protected her small furry friend. “Let’s head for home,” were the words she said, but she meant Stormwind. She dropped off several items at the auction house, put a few more in the bank, then met up with Casyl at the Pig & Whistle. She had a hard time deciding what to wear, but eventually put on the dress from Kel that had belonged to his mother, along with the cape Aska had made for her wedding. Kel and Aska said they were in the Park, so the two young women headed over. Mabon offered everyone Fizzy Faire drinks, but only Aska was interested. It wasn’t Mabon’s favorite either, but it was an interesting beverage. She tried to toast to her advancement in training, but the mood just wouldn’t lighten. Mabon felt as if she had walked into a funeral. Kel didn’t look sad as much as tired and worried. When he announced he had some obligations to take care of, Mabon was not surprised. She gave him a quick kiss, and waved to him as he walked away.

“Sometimes I wish he were a baker,” she said with a sigh. “Then I might get to see him more often.” Not even Aska knew what to say to that remark, but she did try to distract her young friend with talk of new outfits, and armor. When Aska’s friend Archy arrived, Mabon smiled broadly. He was so nice and friendly, and Mabon had enjoyed each time they had spoken. But even Archy’s presence could not lighten the mood of the evening. No one seemed eager to celebrate with Mabon. A guild mate of Archy’s stopped by to discuss something with him, and Mabon slipped off to the new bar in the Park. She ordered Darkmoon Reserve, and tipped the barmaid well. “You never saw me,” she said, wobbling back to her friends, unused to strong drink after such a long dry spell.

At the center of the Park, the water in the well sparkled invitingly. It had been ages since Mabon had gone swimming. Even longer since she had been in that pool. She dove in, the realized she was still dressed. She stripped off the gown and cape, tossing in them by her bag at the edge of the water. As she swam, she turned summersaults and flips, the water’s buoyancy making her graceful once more. Surfacing, she laughed, and noticed her friends standing at the water’s edge, staring at her incredulously. Aska stripped off her mail, and dove in, swimming up to Mabon. “Are you alright?”

“Yesh, I’m fine…hic! … the water’sh fabulous!” Her words slurred from the drinks.

“Mabon! You’ve been drinking! I didn’t tell Kel about the last time… “ her words trailed off.

“He’s not here, though, is he?” Mabon’s tone was defiant. By this time, Archy had removed his boots and shirt, and joined them in the water. He tried to look disapprovingly at Mabon, but his eyes twinkled with mischief. Mabon swam happily about in the water, ignoring their admonishments. When Aska and Casyl had to leave, Archy agreed to stay and watch out for Mabon.

When Mabon started to shiver, Archy suggested they get out of the water, and dry off. Nodding, her teeth chattering, Mabon headed for the edge, then rummaged her bag looking for a dress. She chose the one she had found with Nablith in Zul’Farrak, but did not add the shirt she usually wore under it. “How do you like this dress?” she asked him, knowing the answer from looking at his face.

“Oh, if I didn’t know you were already married… “ his voice trailed off as he grinned at her.

Mabon blushed. “I’m sure this big belly would have stopped you anyway.”

“No,” he said quietly. “You really are quite beautiful.”

Mabon sat down, knowing she should not be enjoying the attention so much, blushing at his words. She felt tired, and tipsy, and suddenly words started flowing out of her. “I know I should be happy, but I’m miserable.”

“Why? You are married, and pregnant with two children with the man you love…”

“He’s never around! He has so many obligations that it’s been ages since we… um…” Mabon bit her lip. “… really… um… talked. I rarely see him.”

Archy chuckled at her embarrassment. “Then you should tell him. Make him spend more time with you.”

Mabon shook her head. “He has important work to do. I knew he was a busy man. I guess I just didn’t realize how busy.” She looked at her lap, and brushed away a few tears. The pair sat in silence for a bit until Mabon yawned.

“Perhaps all you need is a good night’s sleep, Mabon. Things will look better tomorrow.”

She nodded. “Thank you for listening to me, Archy. You really are quite kind.” She stood on tiptoe, and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before activating her hearthstone. However, the moment she arrived in Shattrath, her tiredness disappeared, replaced instead for the desire once again to celebrate. She had worked hard all day, and wanted to have some fun. Inquiring over the guild channel if there was a tavern in Shattrath, Jean replied that indeed, there was, on the lower level. Mabon found the place, and although it was interesting enough, there were no customers. “Fine,” she said. “I’ll go to my favorite pub!” and she headed for the portal to Ironforge.

Dohom could tell that Mabon was headed for trouble, so he headed for the tram. He found her just as she was taking a drink of sweet grog. He took the tankard from her. “You shouldn’t be drinking that stuff, Mabon.”

“It’s fine! I was raised on stout, remember? Since I was a tot!”

“But, the babies… you must think of them. Kaldorei are not know for their tolerance of ale. Darnassus is a dry city, remember?”

“Well, they are as strong as dragons. I’m just having a little fun.”

He crossed his arms sternly, and glared at her. “I will not allow this.”

“Allow it? You are not my husband, nor my father. I may be young, but I am a grown woman!”

Dohom threw his hands up in defeat. “I cannot be a part of this, Mabon.” He turned and walked away, pouring out the tankard he had taken, and throwing it on the floor. Mabon turned to the bartender and ordered another grog.

Turtle Hunting June 28, 2007

Mabon was eager to work on her training, determined to advance before the end of the day. She started out by heading to Stormwind to check on some auctions. She spent less and less time in Darnassus. Although it was a beautiful city, it was too depressing to wander around and never see anyone she knew, so she had reverted back to her old habits, and the familiar city of Stormwind. Right away she ran into Toro, and chatted with him for a bit, showing off her new dress from Wailing Caverns. His remarks always made her blush. As Mabon turned to head into the auction house, she noticed a man standing there, smiling at her.

Returning the smile, Mabon said, “You look familiar, sir. Have we met?”

The tall, sandy haired man nodded. “In Tanaris. Those pirates were getting the best of you.”

Mabon laughed, remembering the incident now. “Oh, yes! Thank you again for your assistance.”

“What can I say? I have a weakness for damsels in distress.”

“I am Mabon Stormrage. And you are?”

“Sam. Just Sam.” He bowed low to Mabon. “And where are you headed today? Do you need any help?”

“Well, I have some work to finish up in the Hinterlands, but it’s nothing I can’t handle.”

“I’m sure,” he replied, his eyes twinkling. “Then how about I just keep you company?”

Mabon bit her lip, wondering what Laiyne would say. Or Kel. But her loneliness overcame her worry, and she nodded. “I’d like that.”

The pair headed North. Sam said that he had not spent much time up there, so Mabon would have to show him where to go. Heading for the Northeast coast, they chatted a bit more. Mabon told him about the wedding, and that she was expecting twins – “dragons” as she called them. Sam didn’t talk much, but didn’t seem to mind Mabon prattling on. When they reached the rocky cliffs overlooking the coast, Mabon asked him if he could make the jump safely. “My training has prepared me for such things, but will you be alright?”

Sam chuckled slightly at her solicitous question. “Sure, just a moment.” He chanted an incantation, his hands glowing with swirling light. He nodded, and Mabon jumped off the cliff. She loved doing this! The exhilaration of falling from great heights was intoxicating. She landed softly, and ran forward to move out of Sam’s way. Hearing a loud grunt, then a moan, she turned to find him at the base of the cliff. Hurriedly, she bandaged him, and he smiled up at her. “Thank you, Mabon. I guess that was farther than I thought.” She helped him to his feet, as his minion was just standing there, doing nothing.

Mabon pointed out the turtles, explaining that they were great for skinning, and meat, and she was planning on hunting as many as she could. Sam grinned, saying he loved a good fight. Mabon prepared her weapons, and slipped into the shadows after pointing out the first target. She attacked the turtle from behind, quickly getting in several blows before the creature could react. Then, Sam sent his large minion in, and following closely behind, Sam dove into the fray with a large scythe. Mabon had never seen a warlock fight hand to hand before, except the one time Nablith and Kel dueled like that. The trio worked well together, and soon Mabon’s bags were full. Sam looked around and remarked that it would be a lovely space for a picnic. Mabon quickly got out her picnic basket and set up the umbrella, offering Sam a bite to eat.

Sam looked at her in amazement, then sat down to enjoy the company and the food.

Dear Journal June 27, 2007

I am so worried about Azzure. He just was not himself last night. He was obviously upset over his broken engagement, and I completely understand that. But still…. I have never known him to be so mean or heartless towards me. I can forgive his behavior. I know he is in great pain. He needs his friends now more than ever.

He asked me why I married Kel, but he wouldn’t tell me why he wanted to know. I said it was because I loved Kel deeply, of course. I know our courtship was rather quick, but I felt a connection to Kel that I had never felt before, not even with Azzure.

I’m not really sure of my feelings for him anymore. Perhaps that’s why I’m so uncomfortable every time he hugs or tickles me. He never did such things when he was protecting me, or even after… why does he choose now, when I am married, to show this type of friendship? Even Nab keeps his hands to himself when we are together. Well, mostly.

Aska’s friend Archy seemed annoyed by Azz’s behavior, but he was much too nice to do anything. He is such a gentleman! I’ve really enjoyed spending time with him and getting to know him.

But, my thoughts keep going back to Azzure, and how I can help him while his heart mends.

Home Sweet Home June 23, 2007

Kelandros had wished Mabon a proper goodbye that morning, in the privacy of their loft, but here at the flight master, he knew Mabon would blush at more than a quick kiss. She settled into the gryphon’s saddle, and waved at her husband. The flight up to Alterac was peaceful; the weather pleasant. Uncle Sven met her in Southshore and they rode together up to his cabin in Gavin’s Brae.

Aelsa had prepared a large meal, knowing her daughter was constantly hungry. When Mabon walked in the cabin, she was greeted by the scents of fresh bread, pies, and roasted quail. “Oh, Momma! I am going to become very fat with all this food!”

The older woman chuckled. “I don’t think it is eating that gave you that belly!” She hugged Mabon, and kissed her on the cheek, then settled her at the table. “Put your feet up, dear. Would you like some milk?”

Mabon sighed at the fussing, but inwardly enjoyed being treated like a princess.

“Och, no, Aelsa. The girl needs a good stout. Tha’ will fix ‘er right up!” Sven boomed.

“No!” Aelsa and Mabon said together. “Uncle Sven, I promised Kel no stout until after the babies come.”

“Babies?” This time it was Sven and Aelsa who spoke in tandem. Their faces showed their surprise.

“Yes, Kel and I are having twins! Isn’t it wonderful? Twins run in his family, so he wasn’t the least bit surprised.” Mabon smiled at the pair, obviously very pleased with her news. She patted her belly, a round lump beneath her dress. “I’m hoping for a boy and a girl, but as long as they are healthy….”

Sven and Aelsa looked at each other, a silent communication passing between them. Sven nodded, and left the room, heading upstairs to his study. Aelsa smiled at Mabon, wiping her face clean of the worry there just a moment ago. She poured a large cup of milk for her daughter, and fetched a pillow for under her feet. “I’m so glad you came up for a visit, Mabe,” she said, using the pet name for her daughter. “I want to pamper you a bit. You’ve been working very hard training, and you deserve a rest. I’m very proud of all you’ve accomplished in such a short time.” She paused, and Mabon looked up at her. “Soon, you will need all your training….” Her voice trailed off, then she smiled again. “But nothing to worry over. I’m sure it can wait until after the babies come.”

Mabon looked at her mother quizzically. “What do you mean, Momma? What can wait?”

Sighing, Aelsa explained. “Soon, your trainer will send you up to see Lord Jorach Ravenholdt. He will have a series of tasks for you, but they are quite dangerous, Mabe. It would be wise to wait, before starting them. Kel won’t be able to help you – Jorach would never allow that!”

Mabon nodded, swallowing her food. “I will be careful, Momma. Kel made me special armor, to protect me and the babes. But, if he thinks it is too hard, then I will wait. Lord Ravenholdt will just have to understand that my family comes first!”

Aelsa smiled and nodded, but her thoughts were torn between her professional alliances and her own dear daughter, and unborn grandchildren.

Sven thumped down the stairs, and slammed the door behind him as he left. “Where is he off to in such a hurry, Momma?” Mabon asked.

“Oh, I’m sure he just has to mail a few things in town. He’ll be back soon, I’m sure.” She got up and fluffed the pillows in the large chair by the fire, motioning Mabon over. Even in Summer, the evenings were quite cool up in the mountains, and Mabon was glad of the warmth from the fire. She settled into the chair, letting her mother put up her feet on a low ottoman. Mabon pulled out her journal, and began writing in it. Ever since she discovered she was with child, she had felt compelled to record her thoughts and feelings. But before long, the long day’s travel, combined with a full stomach and the warmth of the fire, combined to lull her into sleep.

When Sven returned, Aelsa motioned him to be quiet, and the pair headed upstairs for a quiet talk.

Treasure! June 19, 2007

Mabon headed down to Tanaris, to finish up some work. She had pirate hats to collect, a stolen shipment of ale to retrieve, as well as a bounty on the Southsea Freebooters. The sneaky pirates ganged up on her a few times, but after all, they were pirates! Mabon knew how to handle them – she could play not fair, too. After she had finished her work, and collected her rewards, she sorted through her bags, selling items she didn’t need, deciding which to list for auction, and which to keep. Inside pirate chests she had found three map fragments. She placed them on the table, smoothing them out. The pieces fit together, and appeared to be a treasure map! The cryptic words told of a beach to the south, where a mast and an anchor lay half-buried in the sand.

A treasure map! Mabon had certainly enjoyed the treasure hunt she had gone on in Westfall. She studied the map. The southern tip of Tanaris was further than she had ever gone before, and could be dangerous. She decided she would ask Kel to come with her. That way, he could keep her safe, and it would be a grand adventure for them together, just like when they were courting, and he had taken her to Moonglade. Excited at the thought, she tucked the map away, and headed home for a bath and a nap.

When Kel had finished his work for the Counsel, he joined Mabon at home, gently waking her with a kiss. “Hello, love.” He smiled at her, brushing the hair back from her sleepy face. Mabon rolled over, smiling up at her handsome husband. “Did you have a good day, love?”

Mabon sat up, excitement filling her face. “Oh, yes, Kel! You’ll never guess what I found!”

He chuckled at her, pleased that she was here, safe, and happy once more. “What did you find, my wife?”

“I found a treasure map for some pirate treasure! Will you go with me to find it?” She looked at Kel, eager for his answer. “Of course,” her eyes twinkled mischievously, “if you are too busy, I can find someone else…”

Kel narrowed his eyes, pretending to be angry. “No, wife. I will join you, and keep you out of trouble.” They both laughed. “Why don’t you get your gear on, and we will head out.”

They headed down to Gadgetzan, and mounted their matching nightsabers. Riding south over the sand, Mabon was thrilled to be on an adventure with Kel. It was just like their courtship again, and her heart raced with excitement.

On the beach at the southern tip, a mast and anchor stuck up out of the sand, just as the map showed. However, when they approached it, a band of pirates attacked them. They were readily dispatched, and one of them had the key to the sunken chest in his pocket. Mabon was delighted at the entire escapade. She laughed with glee when she opened the chest to find shiny plate armor, very valuable at auction, as well as healing potions and a cask of strong drink. Kel frowned at her slightly when she opened it to give it a sniff. She quickly capped it again, saying, “I’ll just put this in the bank for the time being.”

Kel gathered her in his arms, and kissed her, then laughed, enchanted by his bride. She smiled back at him, happy to have renewed their adventures together, and the twinkle in her eye hinted at the plans she was making for the next one.

Travels with an old friend June 19, 2007

Mabon walked into the Pig & Whistle, looking for her friends Dohom and Casyl. As they had not arrived yet, she sat down to wait. She was rummaging her bag for her flask of bubbling water when she heard a voice call her name. Mabon looked up to see a small gnome with wild hair and a grin to match. “Jeater!” She jumped up and hugged the miniature warrior.

“Hiya, toots! Long time, no see!” Jeater greeted his childhood friend, chortling. “You look great!”

Mabon motioned him to sit down and the pair had a grand time reliving old tales of adventure. “Remember when we used to throw rocks at those orcs behind tree? Hahaha!” Jeater’s laughter rang through the tavern. “Hey, toots, how’d ya like go to Outlands with me? I know this place where the view is amazing!”

For the first time in weeks, here was someone who was not treating her like a fragile object, but instead, like the living, breathing, adventurous young woman she still felt herself to be. They quickly made the arrangements needed, and set off for Shattrath.

………………………

“Kel?” Mabon’s voice was shaky over the guild communication channel. “Kel… I’m scared. I need help,” she sobbed.

“What is it, love? Where are you?”

“I’m not sure… We were looking at the view… and then the ogres grabbed him… and I ran… Kel, please, can you come get me?”

“Calm down, May. Tell me the last place you remember so I can come to you.”

“I don’t know… I’ve never been here before. The sky here is so odd, and I’m on the edge of a cliff, and the ogres are here. Huge ogres!”

“That doesn’t sound like Azeroth.”

“Well, no… we started from Shattrath.”

“Mabon! What are you doing in Outlands?” Kel’s voice raised in fear and anger. He had already hearthed to Shattrath, and was trying to find her through her tabard’s locator device. “Stay where you are. Don’t move!”

Kelandros arrived, fighting his way to his wife, just as the ogres had found Mabon. She screamed, and tried to vanish into the shadows, but the huge creature bore down on her, swinging his club. The fury of Kel’s fear for Mabon drove him on, and he felled the ogre quickly. He knelt over Mabon, checking her for injuries. Casting his healing spell over her, he held his breath, waiting. She opened her eyes, and relief flooded over him. He picked her up, and placed her on his mount, then climbed up behind her. Kel spurred Shadowfang and they raced over the countryside.

When they were finally back home at the loft in Darnassus, and Kel was sure Mabon was unhurt, he could no longer control himself. “What were you thinking going to an ogre hill? Are you trying to get yourself killed?” His eyes were wild, the lines of his face tense. Kel could not get near Mabon for fear he might shake her with rage. “Who were you with?”

“It… it was an old friend of mine. The ogre’s got him. I don’t know what happened; we were fine until they came back…” Mabon’s voice trailed off, and tears streamed down her face. “I’m sorry, Kel, I truly am. It wasn’t supposed to be like that.”

“You go to an ogre hill and you think it will be alright? Who was it that took you there?”

“I don’t want to tell you… if the ogres didn’t kill him, I don’t want you to.”

“He will be lucky if the ogres make a meal of him.”

“It wasn’t his fault! It was my idea to go… You can’t blame Jeater for my foolishness…” Mabon clamped her hand over her mouth.

“Jeater,” Kel said quietly, committing the name to memory.

Mabon sighed. “We have known each other since we were children. I haven’t seen him in ages. He was the first person to speak to me in months who didn’t suggest I take a nap, or not fight, or take it easy. I felt like me again. Not a wife. Not a mother. Not a china doll. Just… me.”

Kelandros allowed the relief to wash over him, and he relaxed. “You are always ‘just you’ to me, love. Just Mabon, just my wife, just the mother of my children. Just the amazing woman I love.”

She looked up at him. “I have always said that. I’m just me. I’m sorry, Kel. I promise. No more traveling to Outlands for me. Well, except to Shattrath, of course.” She grinned, and Kel grinned back at her, unable to help himself. He strode to her, and kissed her, his passion fueled by the evening’s fury and fear. They fell into each others’ arms, and let the day’s exploits become a distant memory.

Fighting Words June 15, 2007

When Kelandros arrived, Mabon greeted him with a quick kiss. “Hello, husband. Welcome home.”

“Hello, wife.” He gave her a half-smile, and followed her towards the back of the house.

“Are you hungry, love? I could fix us something to eat.” Mabon was not a very good cook, but she tried. He nodded, and she hastily prepared them each a plate of food. It had been some time since they had a meal together, even though Mabon seemed to be constantly eating.

“How was your day?” Kel looked at her as he asked, as if he knew what she was going to say.

“Oh, I took a picture of a turtle, and gathered some bottles. Nothing difficult”

He raised his eyebrow. “No fighting?”

“Well, I did have to gather items from trolls in some ruins in Tanaris. But it was nothing I couldn’t handle.”

“And how is Nablith?” Kel grinned.

“How did you know? Are you spying on me?” Mabon’s face grew cold, her eyes narrowing at him.

“No, my love. I would never do that. But a friend of mine mentioned you were with a warlock. I assumed it was him. I trust he kept you safe enough.”

Mabon took his amused tone as condescension and lit into him. “I can take care of myself! Do you know what he did there?” Kelandros’ face fell as he thought of the possible answers. “He stood back! I fought the trolls. Me! I’m strong, Kel. Stronger than ever. And I know what I’m doing!” Her voice was raised to near hysteria.

“I have no doubt of your skills, love. Or of your courage.” His tone was even, trying to calm his wife.

“Do you know how many people tell me what to do? To take it easy? To be careful? Even the Commander doubts me. I am sick and tired of people telling me how to do everything. Take a nap! Don’t do anything foolish! Do you think you should be doing that?” She waved her arms, stamping around the room in bare feet.

Kel sighed, and walked to the balcony and sat down. “You are well-prepared, yes. You have amazing skills, I know. But sometimes, that is still not enough. To lose someone you love… I could not bear it again.”

“How dare you! How dare you patronize me in one breath, and then talk about her in the next? You say she is not part of our lives, but she is…” Tears began streaming down Mabon’s face. “I have tried to understand. Tried to stay friends with Laiyne, even considering this… but if she is here, with us now…” She gulped, unable to finish.

Kel’s own anger flared. “How can you doubt my love for you? I only care about you. You are my wife, and the mother of my children.”

“That’s just it, Kel. These dragons… they make me strong. I feel them, now, all the time. I feel… invincible.”

He crossed the room and took her in his arms. Burying his face in her hair, he murmered, “You may feel it, May, but you are not. I could not live without you.” He held her as she sobbed, allowing her frustrations to work themselves out.

The Trouble with Trolls June 15, 2007

Mabon headed for Gadgetzan, having heard she could find work there. Across the town plaza, she spied her friend, Nablith. This was indeed her lucky day! She ran to him as he entered the Inn. “Nab! I’m so glad I ran into you!” she blurted out.

The dashing, silver-haired warlock looked up from his meal, and smiled at her. “Hello,” he said. “How are you?”

Blushing slightly over her lack of manners, Mabon replied, “I am well, thank you. And yourself?”

Nablith chuckled at her, quite familiar with her enthusiasm and naïveté. “Fine, Mabon. Now, what did you need?”

“I need to go to the ruins of Zul’Farrak, and I can’t go alone. Can you help me?” Mabon smiled at her friend, tilting her head.

“Of course,” he said quickly. “I’m happy to help you, Mabon.” He collected his belongings, and the pair headed out across the desert. When they reached the ruins, he turned to her, his face serious. “Are you sure you are up for this?”

Mabon scowled. “Yes! I’m fine! Can we go now?” Her voice was impatient. Nablith chuckled again, and patted her on the back, pushing her forward into the ruins. Looking around, Mabon felt a chill run down her spine as she saw the trolls, dozens of them. She shook herself, trying to rid the feeling of terror, ignoring the images pouring in her head. For a moment, she was back in the dark cave, hurt and alone and scared. A wave of panic and nausea swept over her. She glanced at Nablith, but he was busy readying his large minion for battle. Mabon hoped he hadn’t noticed, and tried to put on her battle face.

The powerful warlock easily handled the trolls, his minion drawing their fire, keeping them off the young rogue. Repeatedly, Nab told Mabon to stay back and out of sight, but she could not. Her mace swung with fury, her blade slicing quickly. She stunned and poisoned her foes, and only had to vanish from battle once. It felt exhilarating to fight, especially these strong trolls. Her weapons flew, fueled by the feelings of revenge she had sought for so long. Nablith had his hands full, keeping her from being mobbed. Mabon’s face was wild, and she whirled around looking for another opponent. But the area had been cleared, and the battle done. Nablith looked at his young friend, puzzled. He had never seen her like this before. Her hands were shaking, and the nausea from earlier returned. Mabon sat down and sipped some of her bubbling water from her flask, not looking at Nablith. He sat nearby, smiling at the interesting change in the girl.

Mabon’s bags were full of valuable items from the trolls. She was tired, no, exhausted, from the fighting.

“Let’s get out of here,” Nablith said, noticing her weariness. He led the way out, making sure they were not ambushed along the way. He took her back to Gadgetzan safely before saying goodbye.

“How can I repay you for this, my friend? I could not have done this without you.” Mabon smiled.

“There is no repayment needed. I am always happy to help you, dear.”

“Well, then… thank you.” Mabon stood on tiptoe and kissed him quickly on the cheek. She hearthed back to Shattrath, then headed for home. She bathed, washing away the sand and dust and blood and smell of troll. She dressed in an outfit she thought Kel would like, and sat down to wait for him.

Determination June 14, 2007

As Mabon rode the gryphon down from Darnassus to Feathermoon Stronghold, she thought about the warnings Aska had given her. “Be careful…. Take it easy…. Perhaps you need a nap…. Don’t do anything foolish….” Even her new friend Lily had told her to take care. Mabon had responded that she was not a china doll, and that women had been with child many times over the centuries, and not once had the world come to a standstill. These thoughts, coupled with the admonishment from Commander Thunderman had fueled her resolve.

She reported for duty to the General of the Sentinal Army, Shendris Feathermoon, and was charged with scouting out the Ruins of the Solarsal, checking for Naga presence. “That doesn’t sound so hard,” Mabon said to herself. Spots the frog certainly seemed unconcerned. They headed south. The local wolves provided skins, and Mabon was pleased to note her bag filling up with them. Finding the ruins infested with Naga, Mabon reported back to the General, who tasked her with eliminating some of them.

Mabon easily completed the job, then asking for work from others, headed to the mainland to discover the whereabouts of a missing courier. Eventually, she had to head back up to Rut’theran Village, to speak with the lorekeeper there.

Feeling quite strong after the morning’s training, Mabon decided to head up to The Hinterlands, as she had some work up there as well. Finding the discarded feathers was easy, besting the wolves was not hard, and again provided many skins, even facing the Trolls offered little challenge! Mabon was starting to feel invincible! Just as she was about to start on a harder set of tasks, Laiyne suggested they go to the Pig & Whistle for refreshments. Sighing, Mabon reluctantly agreed. She was hungry (as usual), and didn’t want to get too tired, but hated leaving the tasks for later.

Casyl joined them, and talk quickly turned to how Mabon was doing. They were so curious about what it felt like! Mabon told them it was like having a dragon in her belly. She didn’t mention that it was more like two, wanting to keep those thoughts to herself until the priestess confirmed their suspicions.

Later, while Mabon headed home for a nap, she resolved to finish her tasks in the Hinterlands tomorrow. Just because she was with child didn’t mean her training couldn’t continue. And if she needed some help, well, she knew where to get it.