Two rather odd-looking individuals approached the portcullis of the Crimson Blades. One was a priest, of frail stature but dressed well in purple robes; the other was a monocled aristocrat, and rather eccentric looking. He wore a colourful waistcoat which peeked out from under a blue, well-tailored jacket. Impatiently, he pulled out a pocket watch, flipped it open to check the time then closed the lid again.

"What d'ye want?" a guard asked from behind the metal spars.

"We wish to see one of the recruits who was injured yesterday," the little priest said.

"Name?"

"Tiene Firefury."

"Not the recruit. Yours!"

The little priest chuckled, embarrassed by his mistake.

The monocled individual rolled his eyes. "Just tell Sauren, Louvel Nottley is here," he said gruffly.

The guard eyed the two of them suspiciously, then turned and shouted to another guard further back who came trotting forward. The guard whispered in his ear, and the second man took off across the courtyard.

Sauren was discussing training schedules with three of his trainers when the guard approached. He turned toward the man, mild irritation at being interrupted - until he learned who stood at the gate. A slow smile crept over his mouth. He moved towards the entrance of the grounds with long, deliberate strides.

Louvel, with forefinger tapping his chin, was wondering how easy it would be to scale the walls as Sauren neared.

Fyn Godwin, the priest, watched the tall, athletic figure approaching, transfixed, his eyes growing larger by the second. Here came a man who oozed power and charm. The long platinum hair, worn loose apart from three plaits on one side, draped over the man's shoulders. His stride was confident, assured. The garments he wore were everyday attire, but immaculately tailored; black pants tucked into knee-length riding boots and a black shirt, the sleeves, rippling as he walked. When he stopped in front of the visitors, Fyn noticed part of a tattoo peeking up from the gap in the shirt's neckline. The man greeted Fyn and Louvel with a show of perfect teeth from behind his charismatic smile. "Gentlemen!" he said warmly, his voice a little gravelly.

Louvel cocked an eyebrow which caused his monocle to fall out and dangle on its wiry strap. "Sauren," he responded. "And no, before you ask - I have not come to sign your charter nor join your guild. I am here to see the Firefury girl. I believe she was injured during one of your elaborate training thingummyjigs."

"Ah," Sauren acknowledged, stifling a laugh at the rogue's diatribe. "She will be most pleased to see you Louvel. But she is not at death's door- " He turned to look at Fyn. "There was no need to bring a priest," he teased.

The little holy man laughed. "Oh, no, sir, I met the young lady some time ago when she visited Ravensholdt Manor. I was in town and met with this rambunctious individual, who told me Tiene was here at the Crimson Blades."

Sauren laughed out loud. "Rambunctious? Louvel? I take it there was a touch of sarcasm there, priest?"

Fyn smiled guiltily. "I refer more to his clothing, sir."

As Sauren's laughter sounded again, Louvel wedged the monocle back in place and grunted at the little priest. "Sometimes Fyn, I think you should have run away with the Darkmoon Fayre instead of joining the priesthood; they have a shortage of comedians."

Sauren nodded to the guard to allow the visitors access. The small gate in the portcullis was unlocked, and Louvel and Fyn stepped into the grounds of the Crimson Blades. There was a large, complicated structure in the centre of the courtyard with platforms, ropes, beams and very tall posts - they seemed utterly terrifying to the little priest. He assumed this was the very structure from which Tiene had fallen. His eyes widened at the mere thought of falling from such heights.

"So, priest - Fyn, was it? You are visiting Capital City?" Sauren asked the little holy man as he shuffled alongside, trying to keep up with the Guild Master's wide gait.

"Don't tell him your surname, whatever you do," Louvel piped up, looking at Fyn. "The whipper-snapper will start calling you by it."

The priest was a little shocked at Louvel's reference to the Guild Master. Sauren read his expression. "Oh, do not mind Louvel, he has called me that since we were boys."

Fyn smiled and nodded. "Erm, yes. I - I am visiting only, on my way to Stratholme, actually. My brother is there at the moment, and he has sustained an injury which, for some reason which still eludes me, he wishes me to tend."

"For a priest, I would have thought it obvious why your help is required," Sauren commented.

"Yes, but my brother and I are, sadly, estranged, and there are numerous priests available in Stratholme who could tend him."

"Ah. Well, hopefully, it may enable you both to build bridges," Sauren said, his charismatic smile flashing once more.

He opened the large wooden doors which led into the library. There Tiene sat, with a young man next to her. They were laughing together.

"Tiene!" Sauren called.

The blonde turned quickly, a grimace showing as pain shot up her arm when she knocked it on the wing of the chair. Her eyes were wide, unnerved.

Sauren's stride hitched - she seemed afraid if he wasn't mistaken. Perhaps it was the effects of the sedatives and memory of the horrific fall she had? Still, it made him feel a little troubled. He smiled to reassure her, then stepped aside to allow her visitors to come forward. Her face instantly lit up.

"Fyn! Louvel! How lovely to see you both." She tried to stand, but the effort was too much. Inaris settled her down again then stood to greet her visitors.

Sauren was no longer in the picture; Tiene's attention was entirely on the priest and Louvel as she introduced them to her brother. The Guild Master sighed softly, then turned and left them to their own devices.

"I never expected to see you - for a very long time at least, Fyn - but I am so happy you're here," Tiene said.

"Well, I was passing through, Tiene, when Louvel told me about a young woman he'd met a few weeks ago from Quel'thalas. As he told me about your meeting, I realised he was talking about you. Then he mentioned your misfortune." Fyn indicated Tiene's arm.

"I see. So, how do you two know each other then?" Tiene asked.

Fyn explained. "I found him injured once, a long time ago. He was more upset about his coat having been damaged than he was about the gaping wound to his stomach," Fyn smiled.

"The coat?" she asked the aristocratic rogue.

Louvel nodded, securing his monocle again.

"I take it the other man wasn't so fortunate though?" she asked.

Louvel grinned and shook his head.

Music: Broken Bonds composed by BrunuhVille

https://youtu.be/WCRxZL5TYHU

Tiene explained to Inaris about Louvel's coat and how precious it was to him.

Fyn then asked how things were with her other brothers Duthan and Lor'themar. Tiene was impressed that he remembered their names. Happily, she reported that all had turned out well, and they had come home safe and sound, although their duties did require them to return to the border. Her visitors then all sat down together, and more in-depth introductions took place.

Louvel had liked the girl when he first met her and listening to her now, he knew why. She was sincere - her love of family was strong; it was her anchor. He glanced at her warlock brother. A fine-looking lad who he could tell idolised his sister. The bond was enviable, touching.

Louvel suddenly had an overwhelming need to see his son, Lewis. He would be about fifteen now. It had been a couple of years since he last saw him. The nature of his work tended to take him long distances for many months away from home. His poor suffering wife, an angel she was, kept the home fires burning. He would write now and again when he had time - which wasn't often. Admittedly, the wine sometimes got in the way of his corresponding regularly, but he did bank his profits so his family would not be without food and some homely comforts.

But, his son. Oh, he was a wondrous boy, so full of life; mischievous, studious and kind-hearted. Louvel recalled him when he was younger; the little dimples in his cheeks when he smiled and his bright, sparkling green eyes - just like his mama's.

He smiled as he recalled Lewis running up to him whenever he returned from missions, shouting "Mama! Pappy's home!" The lad would jump into his father's arms, laughing, so happy to see him.

Missions in the early days were always nearer home, so Louvel was with his family regularly then.

Days, they would spend, often sitting under a tree in the orchard, and Lewis would watch with wide eyes as Louvel carved little animals for him from the branches which had fallen in high winds. Lewis loved the small carvings Pappy made. He had dedicated a whole shelf in his bedroom to exhibit them – horses, gryphons, dogs, cats, pigs - oh, he loved them all.

Louvel's fingers subconsciously caressed the pocket watch in his waistcoat pocket. It held a little treasure in its lid - a small picture of his son; his pride and joy.

He was jolted from his reverie by a young woman standing beside him, staring, as if waiting for an answer. He looked to Inaris, who also stared. The young elf smiled and explained to a confused looking Louvel. "Ella is wondering if you would like a drink."

"Oh! I beg your pardon. I was a little distracted," he said. Gently, he tapped his pocket watch while he considered what beverage he would like. "I think I will have some tea, please?" He smiled at Ella.

"You? Tea?" Fyn gasped.

"Yes! Tea," Louvel replied, tugging down his waistcoat and crossing his legs. He resumed a lofty appearance, with his monocle firmly in place.

Fyn shook his head and sighed, then turned his attention back to Tiene. "Now then my dear," he said, gently laying his hand on her bandaged right arm. "Has there been any priests to aid with your healing?"

Tiene smiled. "No. Just the local surgeon and the Blades' own first aid specialists."

The little priest tutted. "Oh my, that will never do then. May I?" he asked, his little eyes bright and hopeful.

Tiene smiled. "Of course you may, Fyn." She looked at Inaris. "This may have me on missions quicker than everybody thought." Then her smile faded. She remembered Sauren said he would be accompanying her on her first few.

Both Inaris and Fyn caught the change of expression. "Is something wrong, dear?" Fyn asked, his hands hovering above her injured arm.

"Tiene?" Inaris was also concerned.

She took a deep breath and shook her head. She had not meant to alarm anyone, particularly not Inaris. "Just slight nerves I guess for going on missions. I'm excited, though nervous." She managed a small smile.

Inaris nodded, though he was not entirely convinced. Still, he knew she was keen to continue with her training, and if he wasn't mistaken, a little competitiveness had sprung up with Camnath on missions too. That should spice things up between them, he thought.

She looked at the priest, his little eyes still sparkling. "Please. Carry on, Fyn."

He nodded with a smile on his thin lips. He closed his eyes and chanted.

A faint glow emanated from Fyn's hands, growing in intensity as he repeated his chant until a bright aura surrounded Tiene's arm and shoulder. It was beautiful!

Ella arrived with their drinks and gasped at what she saw. Inaris quickly moved to her side, so she did not drop the tray. The housemaid smiled and blushed a little at her ineptitude. Inaris' hand touched hers, and she lowered her head as her blush deepened.

Fyn continued with the chant, and the aura started to change colour. It shimmered as it went from white to gold, red to orange, blue to green then back to gold until finally, it was white again. All the while, Tiene had felt like a river of warmth flowing through not just her arm and shoulder, but her entire right side. It was soothing, relaxing and utterly spiritual. Then Fyn finished his chant and the aura slowly faded.

He looked at Tiene. "Now my dear, try to flex your fingers."

Tiene did as he told her. There was only the slightest discomfort, where before it had been a sharp pain. She automatically raised her whole arm, but that was being too ambitious. It still hurt, though not quite as severely; she winced a little. Fyn smiled wistfully. "I can ease suffering, but I do not do miracles, I'm afraid. That gift is for others whose studies have progressed beyond the simple easing of pain."

Tiene smiled and patted Fyn's hand with her left one. "Well, it feels pretty miraculous to me, Fyn. I could not move it at all without breaking into a sweat before. Thank you."

"You are most welcome, my dear, but do rest still. I would estimate a week, maybe two, maximum."

"That's much quicker than originally thought," she said.

Inaris helped Ella to hand out the drinks and some small nibbles for the company to enjoy. He asked her to join them, she declined, saying she had to work, but his kindness was appreciated. He watched her as she left the library, a soft smile playing on his lips.

"Like that one, do you lad?"

Ianris looked down at Louvel who sat with his cup of tea, pinky extended. Inaris laughed lightly. "Yes, I do. She seems very nice."

"Who don't you like?" Tiene said with a smirk.

Inaris leaned closer. "Well, that scary red-head of a trainer is a bit daunting," he whispered.

"My daughter, you mean?" Louvel said, taking a sip of tea, watching the warlock over the rim of his cup.

Inaris never blushed, but on this occasion he did. Then Louvel laughed. "Oh, your face! I was joking, lad. I have no idea who you are talking about."

The whole company fell about laughing.

An hour later, her visitors, including Inaris, had to leave. Fyn and Louvel promised to visit again, if at all possible, and the aristocratic rogue reminded her he was often at the inn she dined at that first day, should she want to meet up sometime. She promised she would.

Inaris hugged her, careful not to hurt her right side. "Tell father he does not have to come this evening," she told him. "I know it is a lot when he has so much work he needs to do. But tell him I love him and will see him another time."

"I will, baby sis. I love you too. Now do as Fyn told you, and rest." He glanced at the portrait of their parents, then back at his sister. "They will watch over you from here too."

She smiled and kissed his cheek.

Tiene sat quietly in the library, reading. She jumped when Ella came up beside her. The maid apologised for startling her and continued to push a table in front of where Tiene sat. She looked questioningly at the housemaid. Ella quietly explained she would bring her lunch through to her, so she did not have to sit on the benches in the dining hall, which were not as comfortable as the seating in the library. Tiene nodded. It was most considerate. Ella left to bring the food and Tiene buried her nose in her book again.

"Mind if I join you?" Sauren's voice made her freeze. Her eyes flitted nervously from the book, to table, to portrait, to his black riding boots on her right. She heard him sigh, resigned, defeated. "I take it from your silence that you do," he said. He started to turn away.

Realising her refusal to look at or speak to him was plain rude, she blurted, "No! I do not mind." Lifting her eyes, she met his hopeful stare. He smiled, hesitant. "Forgive me; I was just distracted, I guess," she said.

Sauren pulled out the chair opposite and sat.

Tiene swallowed as she watched his slender fingers lightly drumming the chair arms. She dared a glance at his face, then quickly looked away, unable to maintain eye contact.

"Have I done something to offend you, Tiene?" he asked quietly.

"No." She stared back at her book.

"Well, I have noticed that you are considerably different towards me today." He shifted in his seat.

"Am I?" Her voice notched up a note.

Ella arrived with a tray and two platters. Tiene suppressed a nervous sigh. It must have been Sauren who suggested luncheon in the library. Ella placed the food and drinks in front of them both, then quickly left.

The two diners proceeded to remove the lids from the platters in silence.

Sauren watched Tiene closely. She was deliberately avoiding his gaze. "Is it something Lexie said?" he asked suddenly.

Tiene dropped her fork - her reaction giving Sauren the answer he had expected. "I see," he replied tight.

Slowly, her eyes met his. She half expected him to be agitated, angry, but she was surprised when she saw regret.

"I do not expect you to divulge all she told you, Tiene, but I can guess her story. I know how Lexie thought."

Tiene said nothing as she picked up her fork again and her knife. She was struggling to cut the meat as she still didn't have enough purchase in her right hand to manage.

"Allow me," Sauren offered. He leaned over and cut the chicken into small bite-size pieces. She thanked him in a whisper, then started to eat, slowly.

He sat back in his chair. After a few more painfully quiet moments, he spoke. "You obviously know Lexie frequented my bed," he said, watching Tiene from under his lashes. She nodded, her face reddening.

"And that my tastes are - shall we say - sometimes extreme?"

Again Tiene nodded. Whether nerves were to blame, she knew not but a piece of chicken lodged in her throat. She choked, a coughing fit ensued. Sauren rose to assist, but Tiene grabbed her glass and drank some water to wash the food down. Fortunately, it eased, and Sauren resumed his seat.

After a few moments of agonising silence again, he spoke. "I appreciate you may be shocked by what Lexie told you, Tiene, but I did not force her. She was a willing participant."

Tiene found the subject excruciatingly embarrassing. It was one thing eaves-dropping on Inaris and Duthan as they discussed their sexual exploits when they downed a few bottles of wine. But, to have someone openly discuss their bedroom antics face to face with her was beyond uncomfortable, especially when it was her Guild Master, whom she had respected and admired on a professional level. "I know," Tiene whispered, still unable to hold his gaze for long.

"You do not approve I take it?" He leaned on the table.

She swallowed, carefully, before answering - her face flushed, hot. "It is not my place to pass judgement upon your lifestyle, Sauren."

"What else did she tell you then, Tiene? At least allow me to defend myself. If it is the truth, I will admit it. But if it is a lie, do I not have a right to know what she said about me? I do not want our working relationship besmirched by an embittered individual."

Should I tell him? Tiene wondered. Is it wise? What if he tells me something else I don't want to hear? Such questions crowded her mind. Then again, the man had been nothing but kind and respectful to her up to now. She took a deep breath and nervously met his eyes. "She told me you would..." She shook her head and glanced away, embarrassment threatening to produce tears.

"Would what, Tiene?" his voice was gentle, filled with concern.

"She said you would want me that way too." Her eyes lifted back up to his just for a second, nervous.

His mouth opened, eyes darkened. "Not another one! Why does she insist with this covetous behaviour?" He thumped his fist on the table, making Tiene jump and in turn wince from pain in her shoulder.

"Oh, I am sorry, Tiene. I did not mean to alarm you. Are you alright?" He leaned over.

Tiene clutched her arm, but now her eyes did not leave his. Did she understand properly? Had Lexie done this before? Through jealousy? She nodded in answer to his concern. "She lied?" Her voice was almost a whisper.

Sauren looked straight at her and took a deep breath. "Lexie was a possessive little thing, and she did not like the thought that..." He glanced away from her for a moment. "Forgive me Tiene, but this is embarrassing." His fingers rubbed together, and then he gripped the arms of his chair. He was agitated. "She did not like the thought that I lay with others. She wanted to be the only one. She managed to deter my regulars, shall we say, and went out of her way to ensure no-one else would become part of my night-time activity."

With head lowered, resting chin on fist, his forefinger toyed with his bottom lip. The dark eyes studied his student from under stray platinum strands shielding his face.

Tiene was stunned. She thought Lexie was genuine, but it seemed, by what Sauren was saying, that she just wanted to prevent him from being with anyone else, even if she was not with him anymore.

Her silence was more than he could bear. Suddenly, he rose from the table, his food untouched. Tiene looked up at him, unable to speak. He inclined his head. "Excuse me, Tiene, this has been rather awkward and humiliating. I apologise that she made you so uncomfortable. And as I seem to be guilty of that now too, I will leave you be to enjoy the rest of your lunch. Good day." He turned and left.

Tiene was stunned. Her leader's abashment filled her with dismay. She had two brothers who were also extremely lively with the ladies, but it didn't make them bad men. Inappropriate sometimes, perhaps. Rascals yes, but not wicked.

Regardless, Sauren had opened up and confessed a side to him which quite frankly he did not have to. She moved a bit chicken around her plate and considered what he had told her. She decided there and then, she would not be so quick to listen to scorned lovers again.

*****

Outside Sauren retook his seat for the final of the Fall of Death Trials which had been postponed the previous day due to Tiene's 'accident'; his face was like thunder. He fumed for a few moments then beckoned his favoured henchmen, Don and Reed. They lowered their heads to their master.

"Find that little bitch Lexie and give her to Kel'Thuzad in the manner which he wants her."

They bowed and left immediately. Sauren then signalled for the Trials to commence.

Brett was crossing the courtyard to join Sauren when he caught sight of Don and Reed leaving the grounds on their mustangs. Where are they off to in such a hurry, he wondered.

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