The Fall

[Music Inspo]

Whispers filled the woods and city. The boy prince of the human kingdom is knocking on the gates of Quel'thalas. Bri found herself anxious as she paced among her gardens. If the undead breached the walls, then the Farstriders would face heavy combat.. Meaning her new interest would be in danger. Her gut twisted and fear chilled her veins, distracting her as she turned and ran head first into a familiar stranger.

"What- How did you get in here?!" The woman looked up at the scrawny man, quickly standing upright.

"There's no time. You must head to the woods. The undead are coming." The man informed her.

"No.. Not possible.. The gate-" She began to argue, despite her instincts telling her the man spoke truths.

"Now's not the time to argue. You are in danger and must go. He will find you out there, but only if you leave now." The man gently grasped her arms to shake her.

Peering into his gaze, she knew he was correct. Without another protest, she grabbed her satchel with a spellbook and some basic survival necessities and ran from home. She didn't stop for anyone, her long ears flicking back as she began to hear screams in the distance behind her. The man had been correct.. Saved her yet again.

As she fled deep into the woods, she finally stole a glance back to see some people with her, but the smoke that rose in the distance and the screams kept them moving forward. She refocused forward as she ran to a place further in the woods, one she knew would harbor the refuges until the knights or rangers could come find them.

The group hid among the trees and hills. Bri had set up wards around them for precaution, keeping vigil while the others rested. They were all villagers from the outer towns, and none of which knew any true combative skills. So she told herself, as the daughter of two magisters, that it would be her duty to see them safe until rescue could come.. If it ever came.

Weeks had past, more survivors had been found and brought to their hideaway. She had gotten a few villagers to be able to cast basic spells to keep safe. Some rangers and knights had made their way but were often battered and near death. Bri would spend most evenings skulking through the woods to gather herbs, shells, and other such natural items to create makeshift medical supplies.

As night began to fall, the stranger returned to her once more. She felt concern at his presence, could their home be in further danger?

"It is safe.. You can lead them all back now, child." The man said, adjusting the snowy colored cloth of his robe.

"What do you mean?" The young woman asked, brows furrowing.

"The undead have passed. Remanants of your people are attempting to rebuild.. but know it will cause a great toll on all of you." The man warned, staring at her past his hood.

"A toll?" She laughed weakly, "Surely losing our home is toll enough.."

"This is merely the beginning. Be prepared, child." He spoke again, before disappearing from sight.

She let out a sigh, glancing at her camp and then preparing everyone to venture home.

What will await her return?