commanderbragh

[commanderbragh]

Rage

Banagan reached up and touched his jaw with his gloved hand. There was a brief sting of pain before he brought his hand back and looked at the small amount of blood that covered his fingertips. A slight frown formed on his face as he lowered his hand. His arm brushed against his side, sending a new, more intense wave of pain through him. Bruised ribs, probably, he thought to himself. Lifting his hand again, he placed his palm against his side and concentrated. Banagan felt the Light flow through him and the pain in his side lessened until it finally faded away.

Calmly, the paladin looked over the battlefield. The Nerubian assault had been repelled, the attackers now in retreat. Smoke filled the air and the sounds of metal touching metal mixed with the grunts and groans of nearby people. There were many Earthen as well as their allies out there. Some repairing or rebuilding the defenses, others moving among the wounded as they tried to remove them from the field.

The battle done, at least for the moment, Banagan sheathed his sword as he listened for any new commands to be called out. Memories poked at him, trying to push their way forward until finally one broke through.

——

Banny stood on one of the balconies that overlooked Valdrakken, his Drakthr friend Skold standing next to him. They could see smoke on the horizon, remnants of a recent attack. They did not speak for several moments. Yet, the paladin could feel the tension surrounding his friend. He waited for the Drakthyr to speak, giving his friend time to figure out what they were feeling.

“Why do they continue to do this?”

“I don’t know,” Banny admitted.

“They destroy so much. Eventually, there will be nothing left.”

“I don’t believe that. We’ll hold them back. We’ll find a way to defend everything.”

“Does this not drive you to anger, my friend?” Skold asked, looking directly at the paladin.

“It does.” Banny returned his friend’s gaze and nodded.

“Why do you not show it? Does it not burn within you?”

Banagan stared at his friend, certain he could see the kind of fire in Skold’s eyes that his friend spoke of. Banny let out a slow breath before he spoke again.

“I asked my father about that once. I was part of a group that had been sent out to stop some bandits. We were almost too late. The bandits had already attacked the village and left behind a lot of injured people. One died. A bunch of us wanted to chase after them and punish them the same as what they’d done to the villagers. Our commanding officer didn’t let us just run off. He made us wait.” 

Banny took another slow breath before continuing. “Later, I was talking with my dad about it. I was still frustrated at not being allowed to chase after them. My father listened and then admitted that he agreed with my commander. He said that we didn’t know the terrain, we were still new to things, they outnumbered us. And that chasing after them in the heat of the moment may have gone very badly for us.

“Then he said, ‘Be careful, son. Rage is like a fire. It can be used to light the way, to forge something strong. But it can also consume everything you touch if you feed it too much.’ “

“Then how do you use it without being consumed?”

— —

Banagan’s eyes focused again as he looked over the hazy battlefield of wounded and dead, the Nerubians far in the distance and his own allies busy at work preparing for the next, inevitable onslaught.

“I wish I knew, my friend,” Banagan whispered as his hand reflexively gripped the hilt of his sword. “I wish I knew.”

[commanderbragh]

A Bad Day of Fishing...

February Daily Writing Challenge

Day 6: Holiday

The sounds of the river echoed as the waters rushed past the sand bend. It gurgled as it splashed against some rocks further down and created a sense of peace and calm that was so rare in the shadows of Duskwood.

Banagan sat on a large rock on the bank of the river. He flicked his fishing rod and sent his hook out into the water with a slight plop. He tugged on the line a couple of times and then waited as the current pulled his baited hook. Next to the paladin, his larion companion lay on the ground with his chin resting on his paws. While the paladin watched his fishing line, the larion kept watch on the river and the tree line on the opposite bank. 

Banny reeled his line back in and looked at the empty hook.

“Something got lucky,” Banny chuckled as he reached for a can next to his rock to get another worm.

A quiet rustle happened on the opposite bank. Sentinel’s ears perked and his eyes started scanning intently. Noticing the change in the larion, Banny lowered his fishing rod to the ground and picked up the sword that lay ready behind him. The rustling grew louder which caused Sentinel to push himself up to a seated position as he watched the trees. The branches parted and a worgen poked its head out. It sniffed the air and then looked directly at Banagan. Its lips curled back to show its fangs and it let out a snarl.

The larion looked directly at the worgen. Fanning his wings out, Sentinel started to growl. The deep rumble grew into a fierce roar that echoed across the water. The feral worgen stopped and stared at the larion. Then, with its head dropping low, it withdrew back into the trees. Banagan and Sentinel could hear the sounds of the worgen retreating deeper into the woods until eventually the sounds of its passing faded. Banagan waited a little longer before putting his sword down and picking his fishing rod back up.

While the paladin continued fishing, the larion remained seated. Sentinel’s head slowly scanned the area and his ears flicked at every sound. Banagan cast his line a half dozen more times with no success. He was about to admit defeat when he noticed that Sentinel was no longer looking across the river. Instead, the larion had turned his head and was now looking towards the road behind them that led back to Darkshire. He didn’t hear anything, but still lowered his fishing rod to the ground again and retrieved his sword once more.

Sentinel rose up to standing and faced the road directly. Banny stood and moved to the larion’s side, his sword held at his side. After a few moments, a padding sound could be heard coming from the road. A few minutes later, a familiar rider appeared on the back of a fiery winged lion. Banagan relaxed as the lion turned and trotted towards them, finally stopping in front of them. Valiant let out a quiet huff which Sentinel returned.

“Afraid the fish aren’t biting today, dad.”

“Well you know what they say about a bad day of fishing,” Braghaan replied with a chuckle. “Sadly, I came looking for you.”

“Everything okay?”

“As much as it ever can be. But you got a message.”

“A message? What’d it say?”

“No clue. Not my mail to open.” Bragh pulled an envelope out of the back of his glove and held it out to his son. Banny stepped forward and took it. Twisting it over in his hand, he looked at the wax seal that held it closed. He paused for a moment before breaking the seal and pulling out the letter and reading it.

“Everything okay?” Braghaman asked calmly.

“Yeah. They want me to head back. Guess my holiday is over.”

“They opening up a new front?”

“Who knows? I’ll find out when I get there.”

“When are you leaving?”

“I’ll head out after dinner,” Banny answered with a sign. “May as well get one more home cooked meal before heading out.”

“Figured as much,” Braghaman said. Reaching behind him on the saddle, he untied something wrapped in brown cloth. “Also figured I’d better give this to you as soon as I could, just in case you decided to leave sooner.”

“Thought you didn’t read the letter?”

“I’ve received enough envelopes like that in my time, son. I know what it usually means.” The elder paladin leaned forward in his saddle and held the long package out. Banagan stepped forward and gently took it.

“What’s this?” Banny asked as he hefted the roughly three foot long item.

“Open it.”

Banagan laid his sword on the ground and looked at the package. Pulling on the cord that was tied around it, the brown cloth started to fall away revealing a scabbard and a gleaming golden hilt.

“What’s this?” 

“A new tradition, I guess? I would love to say that this is a family heirloom that has been passed down from father to son over the generations. But the reality is that your grandfather was a farmer. I don’t know that he ever owned a sword, to be honest.”

“So what about this one?” Banng asked as he pulled the sword from its scabbard to reveal a polished blade with etchings along the side.

“That’s my sword.”

“I thought you didn’t like using swords.”

“I don’t now. But once upon a time, I used to carry one. That one, in fact. I had it cleaned up and repaired. Even paid someone in the city to put a couple of charms on it as well.”

“Why?”

“Because if you are going to go out into the world, trying to save it time after time… Well, that’s kind of a family tradition I guess. So it seemed like a good idea to pass this on.”

“Are you sure, dad?”

“Yes, son. And in many, many years, when you’re in my position, you can hand it over to the next generation.”

“Thanks, dad. I appreciate this, really.” Banny sheathed the sword and slid it into his belt. 

“Gather up your stuff and let’s head back to town. We should get your gear together and then we can figure out what to make for dinner.”

“Yes, sir.”

@daily-writing-challenge

[commanderbragh]

Diplomatic Mission

February Daily Writing Challenge 2025

Day 5: Undersea

“And stay off my ship!”

Volute the imp went flying through the air. Helooked back to see the deck of the ship that he’d just been so unceremoniously removed from. Before he could say anything though, he crashed into the water with a fiery splash.

Voltuk kicked to the surface and looked around. Water didn’t hurt him so much, but he did find it an unpleasant sensation to not be able to touch the ground. He looked back at the docked boat and considered going back to continue his discussion with the captain about boiled fish. But ultimately the imp decided against it. 

“Probably just wants to eat it raw, anyways.”

Voltuk started kicking towards the docks. He’d always loved that Stormwind had one of these. Maybe one day I can convince my human to make one of these at his home, the imp thought to himself. Seeing all the workers moving about in the central areas of the docks, Voltuk decided to swim to the side where there were fewer people. Just as he pulled himself out of the water, two men appeared with fishing rods.

“Whoa! Who are you?” the first man exclaimed.

“What are you?” the second added.

“I’m Voltuk, a naga prince.”

“No you aren’t!”

“There aren’t any naga in Stormwind!”

“Sure I am. Didn’t you see me come up from there?”

“From where?”

“The undersea. It’s like the overland but better. It’s also wetter. You can just take it from me.”

“Why are you here?” the first fisherman asked skeptically. 

“I’m on a dip.. diplo… I’m here to talk with the humans. Even brought a feast to share.”

“A feast?” the second man repeated. “Where?”

“Oh it’s right over here,” Voltuk said, pointing to the water behind him. “Come see.”

The two men moved to the edge of the dock. “Where is it?”

“Look right down there.”

The two fishermen leaned over and peered below. Suddenly, a ball of fire appeared and flew straight down at the water. When it made contact, the surface exploded upwards, drenching the two. They sputtered as water rained down around them, and turned to face Voltuk, but the imp was gone. Above the sound of the waves, they could hear his voice echoing.

“Suckers.”

@daily-writing-challenge

[commanderbragh]

Visiting Home

February Daily Writing Challenge 2025

Day 4: Salty

Banagan and his larion walked towards the town square at the center of Darkshire. The large lion kept pace with the paladin, even though Banny wasn’t holding onto the reigns. The lion kept glancing from one side to the other, but Banny wasn’t entirely sure if it was a sense of caution or curiosity that he noticed. As they made it to the fountain outside the town hall, Banny stopped and sat down. Sentinel turned and looked around the village again, taking a few sniffs of the air before turning back towards the paladin.

“It’s okay, boy. We’re just going to wait here for a little bit.” Banagan watched the larion as it stared at him for another few moments. Finally, Sentinel turned and settled down on the ground. The larion laid down with his back touching Banagan’s boot and faced outward, keeping an eye on everyone moving nearby.

“Banagan? Banagan Larethian?”

Banny looked to his right to see a woman stepping out of the tavern.

“Good evening, Mrs. Carevin.”

“It is you,” Elaine Carevin said with a broad smile. She quickly stepped towards the paladin but then stopped suddenly at the larion lifted his head and watched the human woman who had been advancing on them.

“Don’t mind him,” Banny said as he nudged the larion with his toe. “How are you doing, Mrs. Carevin?”

“I’m doing well,” she answered. “When did you get back? How long are you staying?”

“We got in last night. Sadly, we have to head out again in a couple of days. How’s Ben doing?”

“He’s doing well. Got a job in the city.”

“I’m sure he’ll be running the place soon enough,” Banny said with a chuckle.

“That’s what he says, too.”

“How is the tavern doing?”

“Could be better, could be worse. You remember how things are here.”

“Everybody’s worried and nobody’s worried.”

“Exactly,” Carevin replied with a shrug. “We still get some people traveling through. But they don’t stay long and always seem unhappy with what they find.”

“Expecting big city excitement?”

“I don’t think so,” she answered, thinking for a moment. “The last few who came through seemed disappointed.”

“In what?”

“I think they expected to find someplace that was constantly under siege. Maybe they thought this was a place to become a famous hero.”

“And they were unhappy to find out that it wasn’t all fighting the undead and the ferals, everyday all day?”

“One or two of them got downright salty about it. Got pretty loud, too. I half expected them to demand a guide lead them to one of the cemeteries.”

“Are they still here? Want me to come speak with them?” Banny asked, his hand reflexively moving to the sword on his belt.

“You’re just like your father,” Carevin said with a smirk. “He asked the very same thing.”

“I can imagine,” Banny chuckled, his hand relaxing a bit. “Did he straighten it out for you?”

“Oh he didn’t have to. Those adventurers had already left by the time he’d heard about it. But it’s nice to know that neighbors are still watching out for each other.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Banny replied with a smile.

“Make sure you stop by again before you leave town. I’ll give you a loaf of that bread you always liked.”

“I will.”

“It’s good to see you here again,” Carevin said. She smiled and gave a little wave as she walked away, heading towards the town hall.

“It’s good to be back,” Banny answered quietly as he looked around at the people moving around the village.

@daily-writing-challenge

[commanderbragh]

Meet and Greet

February Daily Writing Challenge 2025

Day 3: Salutation

Banagan gently pulled on the reigns, guiding the larion through the afternoon sky. Here and there he could make out the road below through the opening in the trees. Banagan knew he was getting close when the trees started to grow thicker and closer together. The paladin gently coaxed the larion to gain a little altitude and veered him towards the left. Finally, an opening appeared and Banny directed the larion down. They gently landed at the flight path and Banny slid from his saddle. 

With reigns in hand, Banny stepped away from the flight path and looked down the road leading towards Darkshire. The larion padded next to the paladin, keeping watch as they traveled. Banny reached over and gave the larion a gentle pat on his side.

“It’s okay, this is home.” They continued walking, eventually turning off the road and taking a path that led to a familiar house. Banagan came to a stop about five meters away from the door. The larion halted and looked curiously at the paladin before scanning the area. “We need to wait here for a moment,” Banny explained though he wasn’t sure if the larion was paying attention. 

A deep growl could be heard from behind the house. Banny held onto the reigns and waited. After a few moments, a large winged lion came walking around. Flames danced around the lion’s wings and mane as it moved into view and stopped. It let out another growl, but this one was not as threatening. In response, the larion stared directly at the winged lion as a deep rumble started in his chest.

“It’s okay. That’s Valiant,” Banny said in a calm voice. “He’s a friend. You hear that, Valiant? Friend,” he added towards the flaming lion.

“What’s going on out here?” A voice called out as the door to the house opened and an older man holding a warhammer stepped out.

“Hi, dad.”

“Hi, son,” Bragh said as a big grin appeared on his face. Shouldering his hammer he strode forward with his right hand out. As he got closer, the rumble in the larion’s chest grew. Bragh stopped, his grin replaced with a look of curiosity. Hearing another growl, the elder paladin turned to see Valiant stepping to his side. “Behave, Valiant.”

“Sorry for dropping by unannounced, dad. Just thought it would be a good time to introduce everyone.”

“You know you’re always welcomed. So who is this?”

“This is Sentinel.” Banny gave the larion another reassuring pat. The larion still seemed unsure, but had stopped rumbling at least.

“Sentinel, eh? Nice name.” Bragh laid his warhammer on the ground and slowly stepped forward. “Greetings and salutations, noble Sentinel.” 

The larion looked from Braghaman to Banagan and then back to Bragh. The elder paladin stood in front of the larion with his hand outstretched. Sentinel sniffed and then thought for a moment before sitting down. Valiant moved forward to stand next to the elder paladin. The two great felines stared at each other, neither moving or making a sound. Finally, as if by some unspoken agreement, the two cats both laid down on the ground next to their respective paladins. 

Banny and Bragh looked at the two cats before looking at each other.

“He ever do that before?” Banny asked.

“Never. Probably the best outcome for a first meeting.”

“I’ll take it.”

“Well these two look comfy. Be a shame to move them.”

“Agreed. Are the chairs still out back?” Banny asked.

“They are. You want to grab them while I get us some drinks?”

“Yes, sir. Think we can trust these two alone for a minute?”

“Guess we’ll find out,” Bragh answered with a shrug before turning and heading back towards the front door. 

@daily-writing-challenge

[commanderbragh]

Homeward

February Daily Writing Challenge 2025

Day 2: Cage/Power

Banagan followed the main street out of Stormwind, crossing over the bridge and passing through the main gates. He tightly held the reins of the larion that walked next to him. The paladin kept a careful watch as the winged lion glanced from side to side in the crowded city. The larion's tension was palpable, but Banny never felt him pull on the reigns. Indeed, Banny felt it more likely that his companion was keeping a close watch on him, daring anyone to challenge their passage. Banny smiled and reached over with his free hand to give the larion a scratch on the head. The larion’s ear twitched.

“I wonder if this was what it was like when dad brought Valiant home,” Banny said to himself.

The two had only left the gates behind when a voice called out to them.

“Greetings, traveler. That’s an impressive friend you have there.”

Banagan stopped and looked to the side of the road where a lone man was sitting on the ground.

“Yes, sir,” Banny answered and then started walking again.

“Hold on,” the stranger continued as he rose to his feet. “Don’t you have time for a friendly chat?”

“I’m afraid I don’t,” Banny said over his shoulder as he kept moving.

“How much for the beast?”

“He’s not for sale, sir.”

“Sure he is. Everything has a price.”

“Not this time,” Banagan said in a tone he hoped would settle the matter. Unfortunately it didn’t.

“You haven’t heard my offer.”

Banagan could feel the larion’s tension increasing. The larion pulled the reigns tightly as he turned his head and looked back at the human that was following them. A brief rumble echoed in the larion’s throat.

“I don’t need to, sir,” Banagan answered as he stopped andante turned to look directly at the man. “He is not for sale.”

“No need for rudeness,” the man frowned. 

“I haven’t been rude yet.” Banagan’s left hand kept a tight grip on the reigns while his right came to rest on the hilt of his sword. “Leave us be and I won’t have to.”

“Don’t be like that. We were having a peaceful conversation.”

“Would be in your best interest to keep it that way, sir.”

“Or what?” The man’s look darkened.

Banagan glanced around briefly before turning his attentions back to the man. “So where are they?”

“Who?”

“Your friends. I’ll assume you’re not stupid enough to try and do this by yourself. Where are they? Just down the road.”

“No idea what you’re talking about.”

“Right. Have you ever seen what a riled up larion is like?”

“Don’t see that it matters. Once you put the beast in a cage, they’re all the same.”

“And there’s the problem with your plan.”

“Problem?”

“Yeah. You don’t have enough to do that.”

“Oh really? Enough what?”

“Men. Weapons. Time. Take your pick.”

“Maybe my men are closer than you think,” the man said, taking a step closer.

“Doubt they’re close enough to save you.” Banagan held his left hand out and opened it, letting the reigns slowly fall from his grasp. The larion took a slow step forward, putting himself between the paladin and the stranger. A growl started to rumble from his throat. The stranger took a quick step back and pulled a knife from behind his back, holding it out towards the lion.

“You’ve never seen a larion when it’s feeling territorial. You wouldn’t have done all this if you had. They have a determined nature. A strength, a power that is impressive. And if he wanted you down, there would be very little to stop it from happening.”

The stranger’s eyes got wide as the larion bared his fangs and growled again. Slowly, Banagan stepped up to the larion’s side. Taking hold of the saddle, the paladin kicked a leg over and slid onto the larion’s back.

“Lucky for you, we both just want to go home and have a good night’s sleep. If I were you, I’d find a new line of work. There’s not much longevity in what you’re doing now.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” the stranger said, taking another step backwards.

“Do that. And I’d make sure that you never cross paths with us again.” The paladin clicked his tongue and nudged the larion’s sides with his heels. There was a moment’s hesitation, then the lion unfurled his wings and leapt into the air. 

@daily-writing-challenge

[commanderbragh]

Night Watch

February Daily Writing Challenge 2025  Day 1: Hypnotic/Star

It was a clear, chilly night in Duskwood. Braghaman sat in his chair, leaning back and listening to the night sounds echoing across his back yard. Valiant lay on the ground beside the paladin’s chair, his eyes closed as his tail flicked from side to side. Bragh looked to his side and watched the flaming lion’s tail leave a trail of light across the ground. Several moments passed before Bragh tore his gaze away from the hypnotic patterns of light and leaned back in his chair. He looked up at the canopy of trees. Through one of the few breaks in the branches, one could see the stars of the night sky above. Bragh relaxed and stared at the points of light.

The paladin had lost track of time when he heard the door behind him open and the sound of soft footfalls coming near. He didn’t turn his head to look until he felt a hand gently touch his shoulder. 

“Hi, Angel.” Bragh turned to Niviene standing next to him, looking down with a smile. “Everything okay?”

“Yes. You’d just been out here for a while so I came to make sure you hadn’t fallen asleep.”

“Not yet,” Bragh answered with a smile as he covered Niv’s hand with his own. “Just watching the stars.”

The priestess looked up at the sky for a moment then brought her gaze back to their yard. Holding on to Bragh’s hand, she moved around and sat in the chair next to his. “Clear night.”

“Sure is,” he responded with a squeeze of her hand.

“Longing to be out there? Adventuring under the stars?”

“Not really,” Bragh sighed. “Maybe a little,” he added with a chuckle. “But it’s not my time.”

“You’ve still got some good years left,” Niv said, returning the squeeze.

“Perhaps, but it’s not my show anymore. New stars out there. Up to them to keep the balance.”

“Like Banny?”

“Yeah. I guess so.”

“Heard anything recently?”

“A little from the Meddlers. They seem happy with him. Haven’t heard from him since we left Bastion with his larion.”

“Not worried?”

“Maybe a bit of fatherly concern,” Bragh chuckled. “But he’s been well-trained and has good people watching his back.”

“Just like his father did.” Niviene looked at the paladin and smiled.

“Just like,” Bragh nodded and returned the smile.

@daily-writing-challenge

[commanderbragh]

Merry New Year Everyone

Here's hoping that the second half of the '20s are a little less "roaring".

[commanderbragh]

Mistaken Identity

Jek and his cohorts were walking along the main street of Stormwind. To the side, they could see the memorial for their fallen king, but no sentiment appeared to stir in them. Their polished armor reflected the sun and created spots of bright light dancing along the stone path around them. Jek had a slightly smug look on his face as he watched the crowds of civilians parting as they passed. 

“Jek! Hey Jek! Wait up!”

The warrior and his fellows stopped and turned to look back down the path at the man who was running up to them.

“Something important?” Jek asked as the man came to a stop in front of them.

“You’ll never guess who I just saw.”

“Okay, I give up, who?” Jek asked, rolling his eyes.

“Down by the docks. It was Larethian.”

“Larethian. You’re sure?”

“Pretty sure. He was wearing some sort of disguise but I saw him getting off one of the boats.”

“Disguise?”

“Yeah. He had these brown robes. Even had this weird mask.”

“Mask. But you saw him?”

“Yeah, he wasn’t wearing it when he got off the boat. Put it on when he got on the dock.”

“But you’re sure it was him.” Jek stared intently at his friend.

“Yeah, I’m sure. Well pretty sure.”

“Guess we should go visit with our dear friend,” Jek said with a grin. His friends chuckled as they started walking towards the docks. 

——

Banagan adjusted his mask as he stood on the docks of Stormwind. Not only would this help conceal his identity to anyone in the capital who might recognize him, but it also helped to hide his disappointment. His time in the Dragon Isles had shown him a lot, but had brought him no closer to finding a way to restore his own timeline. He adjusted his spell dagger on his belt and slowly made his way towards the city.

The warlock stopped at the top of the ramp to look back at the harbor. A moment later, he turned again and began walking beneath the archway into the city. He’d only gone a few steps further when he suddenly he felt hands grab either of his arms and pull him backwards, making him lose his balance. Banny found himself being drug into an alley and pushed against the wall. Taking stock of the situation, he found himself surrounded by four men, two of whom were still holding his arms and keeping him pinned to the wall.

“I have nothing of value,” Banagan said calmly. “Just let me go on my way and I won’t report it.”

“Shut up Larethian. Get that mask off of him,” Jek added, slapping the arm of the one person who wasn’t busy holding on to Banagan.

The warlock turned to look at Jek just as the other man reached forward and pulled his mask off. 

“Hey, you’re not Larethian! I mean you look like him, but you’re older. What’re you, his dad? A brother??”

“You have made two mistakes,” Banagan answered with a frown. “First. I’m not the person you were looking for.”

“Yeah. Whatever,” Jek said dismissively. “But I bet you know how to get a message to him.” 

“What’s the second?” asked the man holding Banagan’s mask.

“What?” Jek asked, looking at his comrade.

“He said we made two mistakes.”

Before Jek could respond, another voice cackled and called out from behind the men.

“Is play time?”

The men turned to see an imp bobbing nearby, flames starting to form around his hands.

“Yes, Voltuk. It is play time.”

[commanderbragh]

Helping In Bastion

Valiant settled down on the ground, letting out a slight grunt as he touched down. The winged lion turned his head from side to side and scanned the area before folding his wings forward to let his charges down. Banagan slid off the lion’s back and started looking around. The grassy hills extended into the distance with different animals meandering around while grazing. There was a sense of peace here, but young paladin didn’t trust it. He kept his hand near the hilt of his sword, his thumb hooked over his belt. He turned back to see his father slide out of the saddle. Braghaman took a moment to look around before turning towards his son.

“The hold was impressive enough,” Banny said. “Does the whole place look like this?”

“A lot of it does,” Bragh answered with a content look. “But like everywhere else, there are less savory places.”

“Is this where you were help captive?”

Braghaman froze, his eyes dropping to the ground for a moment. Slowly he looked up to his son and shook his head.

“No. That was some place else. Bastion is different.”

“Sorry, didn’t mean to bring up…” Banny’s voice trailed off.

“Don’t worry about it,” Bragh answered, waving it away with his hand. “We learn from the bad experiences as much as we do from the good.”

“So why are we here?” Banny asked, looking around again. For the first time, he noted the winged lions that were padding around near the top of the hill.

“We came here to help someone. I figured since you were still on R&R for your shoulder, you’d enjoy doing something that was a little less dangerous.”

“If it’s less dangerous, why’d you suggest I bring my sword and shield?”

“Because we’re paladins,” Braghaman smirked. “We can usually find trouble if we look hard enough. Also, when are you getting your armor back?”

“I don’t know? I kind of like this gear. It’s certainly lighter.”

“Don’t get me wrong, it’s a good look. Leather and mail works well enough.”

“I know, I know,” Banny responded, giving a smirk of his own. “The repairs are supposed to be done in a day or two.”

“Well it shouldn’t matter too much for what we’re doing today.”

“Which is what?”

“We’re here to help with those. They’re called larions. They’re native here. Rather territorial and they can get a bit huffy if they don’t like how you’re treating them.”

“Huffy?”

“Yeah. But they’re pretty noble. Treat them that way and everything should be fine.”

“Fine,” Banny repeated quietly.

“Sure. What’s the worst that could happen?” Bragh replied with another smirk. “Let’s go get you introduced.”

[commanderbragh]

[commanderbragh]

Defenders

Banagan ran from one group to the next, kicking pebbles aside as he sprinted across the rocky terrain. Reaching the next group of defenders, he called out to them.

“Back up is coming! We just need to hold a little longer!”

The defenders nodded and closed ranks in preparation for the next wave of attacks. Banagan raised his shield to them and turned towards the next group a few meters away. Taking a deep breath, he began running again, trying to reach the next group as quickly as possible. But before he could make it, a giant Nerubian charged at him. The paladin looked around to get a better idea of the terrain as he started to raise up his shield. That’s when he heard the roar behind him. Glancing over his shoulder, he saw another one charging from the other direction.

Banagan turned back to the first attacker. Frowning, Banagan rushed forward to meet the first Nerubian. His attackers were momentarily caught off-guard. The first skittered to a halt while the second had to suddenly change direction in order to catch up to its prey. The paladin brought his shield up in front of him and ran into the first attacker. The Nerubian loomed over him and did not move much from the impact, but it was momentarily stunned.

Glancing back, Banagan slashed sword around and caught the second Nerubian by surprise just as it had closed the gap. The blade sliced into the second attacker’s leg and it let out a howl of pain. Looking back at the first Nerubian, it had brought up one of front legs and was stabbing down at him. Banagan lifted his shield and blocked the attack. Then, turning his blade slightly, Banagan stabbed at the second Nerubian which leapt back to avoid the paladin’s reach. As the Nerubian moved out of range, Banagan loosened his grip on the sword, allowing it to turn in his hand so that he was now holding it with the blade pointing down. Banagan pushed his shield up higher and then stabbed his sword under it, driving it deep into the first Nerubian’s stomach. It cried out in pain and stumbled back and slumped to the ground, breathing heavily as it bled.

Banagan turned his attention back to the second attacker, but wasn’t quick enough. The second Nerubian sensed and opened and leapt forward. With one of its front legs, it lashed out and struck Banagan squarely across his right shoulder and chest. The paladin felt to the ground. As he tried to sit up and defend himself, the Nerubian pressed forward and pushed him back down. The Nerubian lifted his front leg and stabbed down at the prone paladin. Banagan tried to twist out of the way but was a fraction of a second too slow. The Nerubian pierced his armor above his left shoulder. Banagan felt a sting of pain but luckily had twisted enough that the attack had only grazed his shoulder as it poked through the plate metal. 

The Nerubian lifted up his leg, pulling the pierced armor and Banagan with it into the air. The attacker shook Banagan violently in the air. He then heard the shearing of the leather straps that held the pieces of armor together right before he felt the popping of his arm from his shoulder socket. As the piece of armor pulled free, Banagan found himself flying through the air and landing hard on his injured shoulder. Letting out a string of words, that the little voice that sounded like his father expressed disapproval of, Banagan rolled onto his back to try and sit up. 

It was then that he noticed a shadow fall over him. Looking up, Banagan and saw the large form of a Nerubian spiderlord looming. The huge beast lifted a giant foot and stomped down on the paladin. Instinctively, the paladin brought his arms up to defend himself and he roared in pain as his left arm did not want to move properly. Covering his head with his arms, Banagan closed his eyes and fought to drive everything out. At the last moment, he found his focus and a clear bubble of light formed around him as the giant foot dropped on top of him, taking the brunt of the attack. 

Before the giant beast could stomp again, a large construct appeared from nowhere and drove into the spiderlord . The construct pushed the beast back, pummeling it with powerful blows as other defenders rushed forward and helped the paladin up.

“Are you injured?”

“Shoulder,” Banny grunted. “Might be dislocated.”

“We shall find medical attention for you. Come with up.”

Banagan leaned forward and picked up his sword before accepting the help of the Earthen. With the roar of battle behind them, the small group left the field in search of medical help.

[commanderbragh]

Excitement

Banagan looked out over the city of Dornogal. He looked like he was trying to take in everything all at once. His head turned slowly from side to side, his eyes locking onto one area before darting to another. This is so different from Darkshire and Stormwind, even Valdrakken, he thought to himself. An Earthen guard passed by and the paladin caught a glimpse of himself in the guard’s shield. Banny reached up and rubbed his unshaven chin. Guess I am, too.

As he continued to look out over the city, Banagan heard more footsteps coming towards him. A moment later, Dolraan was standing next to him. The dwarf said nothing, but stood quietly and stared out over the railing. Both paladins took in the moment of peace.

“Is it always like this?” Banny asked.

“Like what?”

“The excitement. The danger.”

“Often enough.”

“I thought going to Valdrakken was exciting enough. But this is different.”

Dolraan said nothing, but just glanced over at the younger paladin from the corner of his eye.

“Things seem so.. I don’t know.. precarious maybe? I mean, didn’t we just get finished saving the world?”

“Azeroth always needs saving.”

“Guess I didn’t realize that. The first time…  last time, it was an adventure. You know, my first time doing it on my own. I mean with the Meddlers, but.. you know.”

“Your father never told you his stories?”

“He did. I thought he was making up things when I was little. Now I think he held back because he didn’t want to scare me or my sister.”

“Yeah, parents will do that.”

“This is what he was doing? All the time?”

“This and more, probably.”

“A wonder he survived it,” Banny said almost in a whisper. Dolraan glanced at the young man again before looking back out at the city.

“What’re you going to do?”

“I don’t know.” 

“What do you want to do?”

“My dad would say that we should help them.”

“What do you say?”

Banagan thought for a moment and then looked at the elder paladin. “I want to help.”

Dolraan clapped Banagan on the arm and turned away from the bannister. “Then let’s get to work.”

[commanderbragh]

[commanderbragh]

Breaking the Surface

It took a brief moment for his brain to process what had just happened. Finally, after what seemed like far too long, he understood his situation. Looking up, he could see a blurry light that was pulling away from him. He franticly started reaching out and pulling himself forward. He kicked his legs even though they felt more and more like lead with each motion. His lungs burned and he was starting to see sparkles in his vision. But he continued to fight, dragging himself upwards until finally he broke the surface.

Taking frantic, deep breaths, Banagan looked around to get his bearings. The waters were churning as pieces of debris continued to pelt the surface. Not too far off, he could see a beach with people scrambling around. Banny muttered to himself about wearing his armor while traveling even as the small voice in the back of his head tried to remind him that this was probably a good thing. That little voice sounded annoyingly like his father in moments like these, he decided before pushing the thought away for the time being. Right now, he needed to get to that beach.

He struggled under the weight of his armor, but Banny never once gave consideration to the idea of removing it. Whatever was going on, it didn’t seem friendly or inviting. And that was enough to fight through the shock and fatigue and give him the desire to make it to that beach with his gear intact. It took a few minutes, which felt like a lifetime, but he finally got to where it was shallow enough to stand. With water up to his chest, the paladin began pushing his way through the waves. Water drained from his armor as he rose out of the sea and trudged his way onto the sands. Finally safe from drowning, he knelt down and took several deep breaths as his patted himself down to check on his gear.

“Everything’s still here,” he said to no one in particular. “Now where am..”

Before he could finish his sentence, Banagan was knocked forward. He landed on his hands and knees, but before he could move another blow struck him in the back and knocked him flat on the ground. That little voice tried to remind him how lucky it was that his shield was still slung across his back. 

Banny rolled to his side and saw a large form bearing down on him. Part arachnid and part humanoid, it raised one of its limbs and began striking down. The paladin rolled away again, his hand reaching to his side and pulling out his sword. With a wild slice, the edge bit deep into the limb of the attacker. It cried out and retreated out of reach of the cursed weapon. Banagan took that opportunity to get to his feet and pull his shield around on his other arm.

The attacker snarled and rushed forward, hoping to strike before the paladin was prepared, but it was not quick enough. Banagan twisted to the side and, at the same time, slashed his blade around and struck the same leg as before. The attacked stumbled forward and fell to the ground as part of its foreleg flew off and landed in the sand. Before it could turn around, Banagan rushed forward and barreled into the attacker’s side and knocked it over. As it flailed on the ground, Banny stepped over it and smacked the side of its head with the pommel of sword. The attacked went limp and dropped to the ground.

Banny stepped back and looked at the being before him. He’d never seen anything like this before and for a moment was regretting how limited his training obviously has been. He considered driving his sword into the prone figure but chose against it.

“He’s already hurt,” the paladin said to himself. “He could just be trying to protect his home, maybe.” Casting one more glance at the unconscious form, he turned and started making his way further up the beach. 

Now that he was out of the water and not fighting for his life, Banny’s brain started catching up to his surroundings. There were many people, humans and elves and dwarves, up ahead. He could hear the sounds of conflict and there were more of these beings appearing and attacking. Banagan began jogging forward, hoping to find something that could make sense of whatever was going on. 

At that moment, a deep voice broke through the sounds of combat. A call to gather up and protect. Just ahead of him, Banny caught sight of a familiar person. A familiar young dwarf was standing there with a rifle in her hand. She was standing next to another, older dwarf who was more heavily armored and was calling out commands. Banny called out to Lorellai but the sounds of battle drowned him out. Taking a deep breath, he hopped to one foot and then the other before breaking into a sprint in an effort to catch up to the others.

[commanderbragh]

Travels, Slow and Quick

The waves lapped at the side of the ship as it sliced through the water. Banagan stood at the railing along the deck and watched as the docks of Stormwind grew ever closer. He appeared lost in thought as he stood there, so much so that everyone else on the deck just let him be.

It was a relaxing trip, he thought to himself. Sure, he could have made use of the portal back to Stormwind and arrived almost instantly. But the trip back gave him plenty of time to relax and the privacy to consider his thoughts. As the ship made its way next to the dock, the paladin knew his time was up and he would have to rejoin the rest of the moving world.

Banny watched as the men on the ship and the dock worked to secure the ship. Finally the call was made. Passengers and crew both began disembarking, carefully making their way down the gangplank. Banny picked up the satchel that had been on the deck next to his feet, adjusted his shield over his shoulder and started following the rest of the crowd. Within moments, he was on the sturdy dock and soon after that on solid land. Banny glanced up the huge path that led up from the docks to the city above, took a deep breath, and began making his way up the incline. 

Once he finally made it to the top of the walkway, Banagan turned and looked back at the docks below. He could see the ship he was recently on. The sails were slowly lowering as the remaining crew secured them for their stay. 

“Welcome back, Mister Larethian.”

Banagan turned to see a familiar person standing close by. The sunlight beamed on his shaved head and his worn leather tunic creaked a little as he shifted.

“Thanks, Erik. Been waiting long?” he asked with a grin.

“Not at all. But I heard you were on that boat,” he said, nodding his head slightly towards the docks.

“Heard? You been spying on me?” Banny stepped over and extended his hand which Erik took and shook firmly.

“No. But my business partners assume that I will want to know when certain individuals arrive in Stormwind.”

“I’m that important?”

“Your family is, yes.”

“Good to know. How are you doing these days?”

“Business is busy as always. And you?”

“I’m doing okay. The trip was relaxing.”

“That’s why you chose a boat instead of the portal.”

“Yeah. Wanted a little time to think.” Banagan started moving towards the entrance to the city with the rogue falling in beside him.

“Troubles?”

“I don’t know. Weird dreams, mostly.”

“Dreams?”

“Yeah. For the last few weeks, I’ve been having some odd dreams. I can never remember them. But when I get up, I’m still tired and I know that there was something important to them, but I can’t remember what.”

“Interesting.”

“Interesting? How so?”

“Others have told me about odd dreams as well. Something urgent or concerning for all of them. Mostly people associated with the Cathedral.”

“My father?”

“Not that he’s told me,” Erik said, shaking his head.

“But he wouldn’t necessarily say anything,” Banagan said, finishing Erik’s thought.

“Not necessarily.”

“What have the others said about their dreams?”

“Just that there always seemed something important that needed to be done.”

“And did they figure out what that was?” Banny asked, stopped along the path to look at the rogue.

“Not that they have told me. A few of them spoke of traveling to Dalaran.”

“Dalaran? Why there?”

“I don’t know. I think some of them just thought it was the right place to begin. And since Khadgar and the Kirin Tor are there, maybe they believed someone there could help them to figure out the meaning.”

“I mean, it’s a place to start I guess,” Banny responded with a shrug. “Maybe I should head there and see what’s been figured out.”

“Before going home and seeing your father?” Erik asked, his eyebrow raised slightly.

“Yeah, it shouldn’t take that long,” Banny answered with a grin. “And it’s not like I’ll take a boat back from there. Maybe a couple of hours asking around and then I’ll be back in time for dinner.”

“Sounds reasonable enough.”

“Would you send word to my father and let him know what I’m doing?”

“Of course. Anything else?”

“I think I’m good,” Banny said, reaching out to shake Erik’s hand again. “Thanks. I’ll talk to you when I get back.”

“Safe travels, Banagan.” Erik released the paladin’s hand and turned towards the trade district of the city. 

Banagan smiled and then started walking towards the mage tower that peaked above the surrounding buildings. After a little bit of walking, he finally found himself standing at the foot of the tower and the winding path that circled up around it. Adjusting his gear again, he began his ascent and soon found himself at the entrance. Stepping inside, he found a novice mage greeting people. The paladin asked about hiring someone to open a portal to the city of Dalaran. After a moment of discussion about price, the novice led the paladin into the tower and introduced him to another mage. The novice explained the request to the mage. Soon coins were exchanged and the mage cast his spell. A portal spun open before them and Banagan could see the streets of the floating city through it. Banagan thanked the mage and began stepping through the portal.

As the paladin passed the threshold of the portal, he experienced several different sensations, each immediately following the previous. First there was a bright flash of multi-colored light. Then he felt as if he was being pressed against from all sides. Finally, as he passed through the portal he found that there was no ground for his foot and he began to fall. The wind rushed against him as he fell and bits of rock struck his shoulder.

Banagan barely had the presence of mind to look around and see that he was in midair, free falling towards water below with debris of various size around him. Most importantly, though, was the complete absence of a floating city. Looking down, he saw the water directly below and only a short distance away was land. The water was quickly getting closer and it was at the last minute that Banny’s instincts kicked in. He called on the Light and shimmering glow surrounded him just before he struck the surface.

“Oh sh—“

[commanderbragh]

Calls From The Shadows

The paladin swung his war hammer and felt it connect with another enemy. He couldn’t see them, they always seemed to be shrouded in darkness, but he felt the hit and heard the crunch of what he assumed were bones. The enemy dropped to the ground and out of sight. He looked around but still couldn’t make out much detail. The only light was what he was creating himself. There was a part of his mind that wondered at that, this talent that he’d never displayed before, but the practical part of his brain shut that down. This is a fight. Time for curiosity later.

“Bragh!”

The voice cut through the darkness. The paladin began moving in the direction he thought, he hoped, the voice was coming from. Another shadow leapt at him, but he jabbed his war hammer into it and knocked it down to the ground. Bringing the weapon high, he swung it in a great arc at the ground and hammered the enemy into a pulp. 

Ahead of him, Bragh could make out a change in the darkness. He pushed forward until he thought he could make out some shapes ahead of him. The air seemed to shift and he thought he could make out the base of a large tree. He heard movement as he stepped closer until finally he could see someone kneeling next to the trunk. The person was slight and leaning forward, dark hair spilling down and hiding their face. 

“Who are you?” Bragh asked in a whisper, though even that seemed too loud and harsh for this place.

The figure looked up, her hair parting to show her face. With clear, bright eyes, she stared at the paladin and yelled, “Bragh!”

“Anaja??”

——

Braghaman’s eyes shot open and he bolted upright in his chair. He heard the sound of glass breaking but didn’t know where it came from. He looked around the room, expecting some form of attack but there was none. Forcing his breathing to slow down, he saw his knuckles were white from how tightly he was gripping the arms of his seat. With effort, he released his hold and that’s when he saw the shattered glass on the flood next to his feet. Slowly, the paladin sat back in his seat as he continued to try and force himself to calm down.

“Bragh?”

The paladin blinked a couple of times before turning to see Niviene standing in the hallway looking at him.

“I’m okay,” he answered, though not in a voice that would convince anyone.

“Another dream?” Niv asked as she stepped over to him and gave his shoulder a comforting squeeze.

“Yeah,” Bragh answered reluctantly.

“Same person?”

“No,” the paladin answered quietly, taking a slow deep breath and then letting it out. “Someone else who needed help, though. Just like all of the others.”

“What do you think it means?”

“I don’t know. But I think I’ll head to the city tomorrow and ask around. Maybe somebody knows something.”