Part 2: Figuring Out The Feline Within

The small band of newly arrived night elves followed their recently appointed Master and teacher into the sacred village of Nighthaven.  This place was shrouded in magic and history that spanned eons, the very air stirred with the currents of nature and arcane powers mixing, waiting to be called upon.  The structures that made up this unassuming village numbered around eight in all, and each building was created with the simplicity and functionality of a training center, while also serving as a secluded retreat for the Druid Circle's members to rest in.


Quickly Draccus, Lannika, and Lorenn were ushered into a building that clearly served as resting quarters for the beginners and apprentices of the life long studies in being a Druid.  There were already a couple of bedrolls and belongings spread out that their owners had left behind.  They deposited all their personal affects and meager weapons in their allotted cubbyhole near their bedrolls.  Cleaning off the days sweat and dirt in a small bowl of water, they then changed into the simple robes of grey cotton cloth tied with a leather strap about the waist.  As quickly as they had departed they rejoined Master Icedragon outside and proceeded to a ceremony of great importance. 


They did not know what awaited them in a few short moments; however, their lives would never be the same.  Neither of these three wide eyed pupils spoke a word as they slowly made their way over bridges that spanned the waterways atop this bluff towards the spot where other smaller groups of night elves had gathered.  In each small group of night elves there was a ratio of one elder druid that served as personal guide and instructor to three younger inexperienced night elves.  All of them were starting off on a journey many had traveled before them.  The was a deafening silence that weighed over the gathered crowd.  At the head of those kneeling quietly stood a druid named Logannar. 


This venerated druid named Lognnar had held the position of Initiator and trainer for so many many centuries that he had even seen some archdruids kneel before him as they passed this stage of their life.  His privileged place among all the Druid was one where he bestowed the power of transformation, shape-shifting into the different aspects of nature as each druid was ready to take on that respective form.  This evening those before him would receive the gift and blessing of the Aspect of the Claw, specifically the form of Cat.  Turning into a powerful and sleek feline animal, but with no knowledge and experience in how to harness this indwelling of the cat-spirit and form they would need guidance and control.  To master this initial step before gaining further communion with nature's forces was required of all that wished to be counted as a druid in the Cenarion Circle.  Each bond and act of shape-shifting that an individual druid gained brought him or her closer to nature and the powers that came with that responsibility.


At last the time had come for the rite of passage to commence, with the full moon in the sky the prayers of thanksgiving and petition rose from those gathered.  As a people the night elves gave praise to Elune The Mother Moon, who faithfully watched over the races and creatures on all of Azeroth.  She blesses all and casts her light down upon the land from the moon often referred to as, The White Lady.  The Druids also were calling out to and asking for Cenarius, Lord of the Forest, to bring these young kaldorei a gift in the form of transformation.  For several minutes their chants rose on the breeze of the night, ringing pass the forests of Moonglade to reach the very heart of Kalimdor and beyond.

As Draccus knelt besides his brothers and sisters he kept his eyes forward.  While staring into the Augustine grass covered ground he began to feel a stranger sensation throughout his body.  His dark skin started to itch where spots of ivory hairs sprouted from once naked skin.  He felt the forces of magic working through each fiber of muscle and the nerves sparked with new life as he fell to the ground bearing his weight now on his forearms and knees.  Where his hands had once been there now was a pair of large paws with razor sharp claws digging into the soil, and his feet were now paws of equal size supporting his weight off the ground.  White fur now covered this new massive physical body of his from head to tail.  A tail that swayed back and forth helping establishing balance, an odd new appendage, seemed to have a life all its own.  There was now a strength and power welled up deep within him, something primal he had never before known existed.  For a split second his vision blurred as he gained the new eyes of a hunter, a predator of the shadows.  The narrow slits in the golden orbs now allowed him to see the smallest of details and pierce the darkest of places.


All noises from the other night elves had ceased completely.  The sounds of the woods that his ears had been keenly attuned too took on new clarity and sharpness.  Slowly regaining his senses and the awareness of those around him, Draccus tried to speak out for reassurance.  All that came out of his throat was a muffled mixture of a growl and a whine.  Shocked by this sudden lost of communication, he looked past his nose to see several other large cats gathered around him in equal awe and dumbfoundedness at their state.  The scene looked as if all the night elves had vanished and in their place stood a pride of large cats of varying shades of color.


The only night elves present were the elders that had not shape-shifted, which included Logannar, Icedragon, Furystorm, and Eveningclaw.  The last two elders where the ones that were in charge of the other two bands of cats mulling around the group.  The total count of newly shape-shifted druids came to be nine students and three Masters.  A rather large group for training this time, because normally there would only be one to three night elves that would enter into Nighthaven at a time seeking instruction and guidance into the ways of the Druids.


The wise and experienced Instructor Logannar stepped forth among the confused and disoriented druids that could not speak for themselves and addressed them with words of comfort.  "Be at peace my brethren and sisters, for tonight Cenarius has heard our calls and granted you a mighty gift.  The forms you now hold are not forever a prison entrapping your native physical bodies and your voices are not lost."  Having addressed those surrounding him, he motioned for each leader of their pack to produce three unique and enchanted charms and place them over the necks of their charges.  Immediately these items became soul-bound to each person, and no one else could ever use or remove these tokens from around the necks of these night elves.


Without words Logannar continued to reach out to the assembled druids, "What you now wear forever around your necks is a charm that enables you to share your thoughts and voices clearly with other druids as if speaking them aloud.  This is a shared link even stronger then what our people have as a race.  You will find the need to communicate with one another instantly vital in the coming battles you face and the trials ahead.  Remember you are not the simple creatures of the wild, but powerful forms capable of attacking and protecting just as well as any animal would, yet with a mind and spirit of a druid, a night elf.  Do not forget your heritage!"


"Has there every been a druid that was lost to this new form, turning wild from powers beyond their understanding or control?" Draccus asked honestly with his thoughts, not sure of how the endless flow of magic that now coursed through his veins would ever be contained.  With the heads turning his way, he realized that his question was heard by all gathered, and he dug his paw into the ground to avoid the staring yellow and silver eyes.


Looking on this brave night elf that had asked a sincere concern without reserve, Logannar answered him gently, "Yes, young One of promise, sadly there have been cases where the forces of nature were to much for one druid to handle and they were overcome with feral instincts.  With no other actions to save what was left of the druid's mind, we gave them over to the care of nature for the remainder of their long lives.  Those lost few now roam parts of the wilds in Feralas and a few wander aimlessly in the woods of Ashenvale.


"But do not fear that fate Draccus Moonsayer or any other here that do not yet fully understand this period of life.  For with the help of your Elders and the guidance of the Druids of Circle you will gain a level of control and awareness wielding this form as naturally as your night elf bodies.


"Tonight you all have gained and experienced much for the first time, it is now time to resume your natural bodies and get some rest.  The initial transformation drains your bodies of the energy and strength you will need to test out the full range of capabilities you now can call upon." Logannar then shared with them the thought that unlocked the shape-shifting reversal, and returned them all to their original selves.


The weary night elves now stood upright again dressed in the simple robes that they had worn to the ceremony but a few hours ago.  Still not many words were spoken between the young night elves, because they realized that they had been brought into the Cenarion Circle but that there was much to still be learned.


"Be quick to get your rest fellow druids," Logannar called back to them as they departed back to their resting quarters, "we gather again at dawn to begin our first lesson in the hunt.  And the prey knows how to fight back."


The Saga continues with....Emerald Elysium: Druid's Dream Escape

Part 1: The First Experience With Cat-form

The daylight was settling into its cycle across the sky quickly.  Rapidly nature was foretelling the signs of the coming day.  The temperature of the air was climbing out of the coolness of the night becoming a muggy heat that drenched everything it touched.  The shadows receded increasingly deeper into the woods, where three pairs of eyes scanned the world around them.


"Do we want to cross the forest floor to the lake's edge" Draccus asked to his two kaldorei sisters, "and then swim the immense lake we just flew over, or shall we traverse the emerald hued woods around its shores?"


Lannika thought through the choices presented to them for a moment.  On one hand they could swim the waters in a more direct route towards Nighthaven or they could travel together through the woods with speed.  The words of Draccus's father still fresh on her ears and in her mind reverberated with a challenge, "Through these woods you must travel to the safety of Nighthaven.  This is the first test you must pass and survive."  She had never been one known to back down from a contest, whether mental or physical.  "I say we take the way of the woods, but if you want to splash about in the water like a fish Draccus you go ahead.  Us ladies will stay dry on land."


"Your loss Lannika, I just thought you could use some more swimming lessons while I beat you in another race of endurance."


Listening to her two companions banter back and forth, Lorenn leaned down to tighten her leather moccasin boots that she wore in a manner fitting a long distance runner.  Then she stood up and pulled the straps around her waist and leggings to bunch the fabric of her robe in place.  Taking a small pouch of water mixed with crushed berries and ground up beans out of her belt bag, she tilted the contents of nourishment back.  "You two can either come with me across this foreign land, or try swimming the unknown depths of the lake.  But I am going to make some headway against this heat and sun, until we stop for a midday meal and a short rest."  And with that she took off at measured pace.


"Guess it is to the woods for us then, just hope I brought my trackers boots with me."  Draccus laughed and began fumbling through one of his enchanted bags on his belt where he kept the few gear items he had in his possession.


Lannika like Lorenn had planned ahead and pulled up her robe slightly to reveal her own moccasins firmly wrapped around her feet.  "Guess I will be the one to win this race between us.  You might be quick of wit and study, but I am quicker afoot."  At that parting comment she took off in a sprint to catchup to her other friend, leaving Draccus to don his bare feet.


After a few hours of running between the trees and the open patches of ground they briefly stopped to drink down a traditional porridge of mixed berries, nuts, and spring water to give them strength for the rest of the day.  With so much energy and excitement they passed on napping under the bows of the trees and continued onward.  Traveling together at a decent pace around Lake Elune'Ara the trio came within sight of Nighthaven just before evening.  A flood of violet and deep blues colors stretched out across the sky pushing the bright light of day back, in an unending dance of time.


Nighthaven, the center of the Cenarion Circle Council, where all druids from across the plains to the deep groves of the forests came to be instructed and take part in the initiation as a rite of passage to the community.  This small city rested up on a bluff over looking the Lake and the beautifully designed structures appeared in the twilight hour to grow up naturally like the surrounds trees.  Little had been said to prepare Draccus, Lannika, and Lorenn for the trials that lay ahead and the growing questions on each of their minds.  The most dominant thought  was of what they would learn and become while under the teachings of the Druids of the different Aspects.


A pair of yellow eyes stared at the young night elves from the shadows nearby.  The creature was stealthed and in a crouching posture with her purple fur standing at attention, and from behind she had a clear aim at the back of the male standing in the rear of the group.  This feline beast was no mere animal on the hunt, but a lesson soon to never be forgotten.


Directly behind Draccus he heard a twig snap and then the wild growl of a beast.  He turned just in time to see the panther-like menace leap up in the air and descended with all its weight onto him, with razor sharp claws reaching out.  With no time to swing his quarter staff around and go on the defensive, he braced himself to wrestle the powerful cat that dared to attack so close to a druid sanctuary.


The impact of the beast knocked Draccus back, while not losing his footing, he stumbled and felt the paw of the assailant swipe across the front of his leather vest, which absorbed what otherwise would have riped his flesh open if exposed.  This engagement happened in the blink of an eye it seemed.  And the two circled each other carefully now, measuring each other.


The two females turned and began to withdrawal their weapons from their sheaths to silence this offender of their companion, when they heard a clear voice command them.  "Stop what you were going to do!  The male must learn a dire lesson to never turn his back exposed to the wild or on an unknown foe.  Lady Icedragon is only demonstrating what a mindless beast would have done."


The Moonglade Warden stepped out from the shadows of another nearby tree and stood with Lannika and Lorenn as they watched the two combatants cease in their dance and stare at each other.  "Allow me the honor of introducing to you the recently returned to Moonglade, Lady Icedragon Moonfrost.  Although she has specialized in the Aspects of the Claw as well as the Keepers of the Grove, she like all druids have a firm grasp and appreciation for the other Aspects and forms we can become."


One moment before them there was a strong, powerful and large Cat, and the in the next moment there stood a tall night elf woman dressed in full armor.  The change between the two forms happened with no real signs of the transformation other then a swirling mist that disappeared as quickly as a breeze.  The night elf woman had long green hair that pooled around her neck, and she bore tattoos across her face as if permanently covered in war paint.  She carried a decorated staff in her hands, but not the weapon of a caster, instead this strong tool of hers imbued her while in her feral forms with great strength and agility of the animals she took on.


The woman who had been a feline hunter moments ago looked down on her new charges now.  They would learn and become cats themselves.  As mere cubs they would stalk and hunt under her guidance and follow her example of carrying out the swift kill of a prey.  She would teach them to blend into the shadows as if never there, and then spring upon their foes with speed and grace.  The four-legged beast would become another extension of their consciousness, moving and thinking as one.  She quietly laughed to herself as she lead her new pride up the path into Nighthaven to the Druid that would bestow upon these young night elves the power of Cat-form, but it was she that would teach them how to truly be one with the Cat-form.


The Saga continues with....Part 2: Figuring Out The Feline Within

To Moonglade For The First Time

The previous night was slowly coming to a close as the predawn light began casting softer and lighter shadows on the land below.  The air was full of dew and the coolness still chilled the small band gathered on this early hour.  The sounds of life then were both stilling and awakening, some to surrender the day away while others gained in volume to greet the morning fresh.


While most Night Elves would normally be retiring to their dwelling places for a restful slumber away from the sun rays, there were a few that remained active during the day.  The sentinels kept an ever vigilant watch against the wild animals or a malevolent intruder during the villages' rest.  The gathers toiled in the bright world taking in the needed resources for food and other uses which only were in bloom during the sun's sovereignty of the sky.  And then there was our band of Night Elves gathered on the edge of Mount. Hyjal along an outcropping of rocks.  This ledge afforded a magnificent view of the world below.


A trio of hippogryphs with their azure blue and fire orange feathers obediently awaited their master’s command nearby.  These silent creatures of power were a cross between a giant eagle in their wings and talons and had a pair of horse’s hind legs.   As well as hinting of an old intelligence with subtle magical properties, they were both wild and tame at the same time.  The flight capable mounts had been relied upon for ages for their natural sense of direction and keen ability to keep their charges safe in all conditions.  Out of the wild they had been summoned for the task at hand; to travel with the six Night Elves upon their backs to Moonglade, a sacred land.

Out of the band gathered three of them were a young lord and two ladies of the forest, Draccus, Lannika, and Lorenn respectively.  They stood dressed in the simple garb of apprentices ready to embark on a journey of unknown length.  Behind them silently stood the three proud fathers, watching the anticipation climb in the hearts of their children.  The Changling Cycle had lasted but a short while, and yet here stood these three ready to begin a new chapter in their lives.

A russet colored vest hung loosely over the plain white shirt that Draccus had hurried to put on during the previous night as he parted from his mother, Lady Galdrian.  It had been a gift from one of the village's leatherworkers, an elder named Thornclaw.  The artisan had said it would protect the wearer from any scratches or cuts he might encounter.  Tucked in one of the inner pouches of the vest, was a gift his mother had given him.  Wrapped in cloth and tied securely with twine was a handful of living seeds, their use still hidden from her son.  She had given them to him to be used only for the most critical injuries and only after a Restoration Druid had instructed him on their proper casting.

The young lord also wore a belt that had been enchanted to hold six bags of varying sizes, to hold what food and water he needed, as well as any treasures he would discover along the way.  His pants were the style of a hunting party's leggings.  The design tailored snugly against his skin allowing for ease of movement as well as the breathing away the sweat from a long run.  Dark colored cloth had been cut to replace the pants he had worn out while exploring the woods.  The hem of the pants stopped halfway down his shin leaving his bare feet exposed.  Over his back he slung a quarter staff made from strong oak and notched at both ends, it height was nearly that of his own.

The two lady Night Elves, Lannika and Lorenn, both wore robes fashioned from a durable weave of hemp and silk to give a toughness and beauty reflected in the same material.  The hues each had chosen to wear were subtle differences from one another, reflecting the personality of the adorned.  Lannika had decided to bare the colors of twilight purple on her gown, denoting the ever changing mood and readiness to spring from the shadows.  Lorenn had gone with a traditional dye of deep rich green, matching the foliage of the surrounding plants, as if blending into them.  Appearing the gentler of the group with their physique and dress; however, they were just as formidable as the men.  A stranger would have been mistaken in their underestimation of these two young Night Elves, because in their hands one held a razor edged dagger and the other a one-handed mace.  Weapons of combat and usefulness they rested in hands that had been shown how to use them swiftly.

"I hope I have everything on me that I will need" Draccus spoke aloud, " of course that is not much.  In the way of possessions what I leave another can use, and whatever need may arise a source will be found to meet that need."  Confident in his abilities to scavenge off the land for what may be needed, but internally hoping to not go without.

Farethilus Moonsayer responded to his son's comment, "What you have with you now is all that you make take along.  Anything else will go to someone else in the community that will care for it as it was done before you."

After saying this final statement, he reached into a bag on his belt and pulled out a small family pendant.  There was a metallic crest consisting of a half sun mirrored by a full moon and encircling the jeweled piece was a wreath of thorns and leaves creating a semicircle band.  Ever so quietly he passed this precious trinket into Draccus's bag to remind him of his heritage.  A father's love for his son wanted to keep him close, but a stronger love wanted to see him go out and fulfill the promise on his life.  This could be a final goodbye.

"Did you not pack before last night's festivities?" Lannika asked Draccus with her usual friendly, questioning tone.  She had her affairs in order since they had learned of the adventure awaiting them weeks ago.  "What about you Lorenn?  How long have you been ready to go to Moonglade?"

Lorenn silently shrugged her shoulders, and adjusted the pack she carried with her.  Knowing that this was a time of change, a time of goodbyes with loved ones, she did not respond with the same enthusiasm as her companions.  Part of her would miss the secluded life of learning and playing in the shelter of her family lodge and the people she had come to know in these few short years, but as with all things she must grow.

"The time has come for us to mount on these trusted beasts of the air and descend into a new world for you three!"  Farethilus spoke with a firm authority in his voice to the rest of the party, while a silent burden not expressed passed through his mind.

Taking hold of the reins to each hippogryph the patriarchs with their kin holding on behind them brought their steads to the edge of the mountain.  Allowing the half birds to stretch their long wings a few times and prepare for the joys of soaring.  With a slight motion of the hand the group was off.  Over the edge they went with the talons letting go of the earth at last, the motion of gravity melted away and the rush of the wind rushed passed them.  Still high above the canopy of trees surrounding the perimeter of Moonglade and with the waters of Lake Elune'Ara shining back at them, the light from the sun forced the Night Elves to shade their eyes to adjust to the brightness all around them.

Off in the distance an outpost could be seen made up of several structures.  "Is that Nighthaven, the center of the Cenarion Circle Council, where the Druids are trained and where all come for rest?" Draccus asked with wonder as they continued downward in the gentle current of air.

No one replied to his inquiry.  The band that had been soaring gracefully along suddenly banked sharply away from that spot on the edge of Lake Elune and headed towards a more secluded spot of ground.  Once again under the cover of the massive trees a haze of mist and lime green light filtered through the canopy above.  Upon their landing the ground revealed it was covered in more vegetation then they had ever before seen.

They came to rest on a grassy knoll and there they all dismounted from their flying steeds.  The three elders looked once more on the younger three before them.  For several breathes there was nothing but silence between each individual.  A change had come over the eyes and expressions of the three older Night Elves, a hardening and almost disconnecting like air towards the unsure and younger members of their households.

"Here there are dangers and challenges that you all must face, individually and together" Farethilus said bluntly, "for you are no longer babes guarded over by the Sentinels of your homeland.  Your lives depend on cunning, bravery, and most of all working together.  Through these woods you must travel to the safety of Nighthaven.  This is the first test you must pass and survive.  In order to learn more of the ways of the different aspects you must prove yourselves worthy."  And with that the elders mounted their charges and rapidly ascended through the trees and disappeared out of sight.

Left alone for the first time in their lives, the sounds and movements of the forest began to slowly shake the shock off Draccus, Lannika, and Lorenn at being dropped off and told they must survive on their own power.  Gathering what meager belongings they had with them, they set off into the woods to face a new day.



The Training Grounds of Moonglade Forest

The Saga continues with....Part 1: First Experience With Cat-form

Times of Raising Them Up

Several nights had come and gone.  The Moon had shifted from her fully displayed face to a hidden smile in the dark sky many times, since Draccus had been introduced to his community, to his people.  While still a young lord of the forest learning and growing, he came to see a depth of character in the people around him in the everyday moments.  Their unwavering diligence to the smallest detail in their duties was a constant source of amazement to him.  It was as if a person were looking into a pool of water and unable to discern the source of the wellspring.  Surrounding him were the mysteries, histories, and tales that spoke of where he came from, and also told of where he belonged.


He would watch the seasoned Hunters of his village, from a distance, sitting with their pets curled up at their feet.   They would slowly and delicately carve and bend the woods of elms, ash, and yew trees into strong bows fitting for their arrows.  Once these pieces of craftsmanship were fitted with their strings the Hunters would then sing and whisper over their weapons placing magical re-enforcements and enchantments on them.  Not one single detail was rushed or over looked.


Another testimony to the quality found in every action those around him took was in the smithery of both blacksmithing and jewelcrafting.  Never has there been a blade forged with a sharper edge or tested in the fires more intensely then the weapons created from the hands of a Night Elf.  Those who pounded the precious metals with a hammer and anvil poured their whole being into the steel.  The jewelry and trinkets were so uniquely designed and woven together, that only the race of Dwarves matched them in brillance and renown beauty.


The Night Elves had over the ages become a stoic race in their daily lives.  This hardness had become part of their makeup from the constant battles and living an existence of survival and struggle.  Though the Guardians were entrusted with caring for Nature they were not immune to the forces of nature.  The rain still soaked them to the bone, and the desert sun parched their throats no less.  The numerous different elements that altered the landscape and weathered all life also equally affected the Kaldorei.  One of the greatest forces of nature that they had been blessed with witnessing was time.


Time once was the passing of moments that were counted by those that lived them.  The cycles of life and death over mortals had once been a detached and isolated event that did not touch them.  They were born and lived freely.  Being connected to the Emerald Dream, the Great Trees like Nordassil, and one another it gave them a precious gift which lengthened their life spans knowing no limits.  Over centuries they roamed the forests and distance lands.  Given all the time in the world a whole race was able to study, master, and learn the arts gaining endless wisdom.  They had tasted of immortality, drunk deeply of that sweet wine, but as fate would have it, this gift was not to remain forever theirs.


A few brief centuries ago, a great battle had been waged on the very ground that Draccus was born and now explored.  In that pivotal moment of history a great sacrifice was made in order to stop the destruction of Nordassil by an enemy named Archimonde, a Lieutenant of the Burning Legion.  Had this fiend succeeded in his goal, even more would have been lost, but Malfurion Stormrage unleashed a great magic and defeated this powerful threat.  The cost of this victory came in the loss of immortality for all Night Elves.  The greatest force of nature, the passing of time, would now hold sway over them as well.  Setting their lives on a fixed place in history with an eventual end made many of them see the value of each moment.  Time was a precious event not to be wasted or carelessly used up.


As time passed Draccus grew into a youth full of energy and strength.  Upon looking at him, he walked, ran, and climbed with the capabilities and prowess of other Night Elves much older then him.  The life of the younger Night Elves was one of strict training and discipline from elders in the community.  There were roles and responsibilities that needed to be filled  by all as members of this society.


They were given practical instruction in the use of staffs, daggers, maces, and unarmed combat.  Along with the instruction in martial arts they also received expert education concerning the professional arts.  Some of the lessons covered were on the basics of anatomy, botany, navigation, and first aid.  Beyond the general courses covered some teachers taught other primary professions.  Some of these specialized professions were in such schools as enchanting items with magical qualities, or alchemy that harnessed plant life into potions and elixirs.  There were even some trade skills that greatly aided in warfare by means of equipping the combatants in armor made from cloth or the hides of animals, namely tailoring and leatherworking respectively.


Of all the professional courses that the pupils were exposed to, leatherworking was one that caught Draccus as both fascinating and deeply intimate.  To craft garments and armor from the animals of the forest was one of the most revered trades a Night Elf could undertake.  All life was held in high regard and respected, from the smallest creature to the largest beast.  Being a skinner and leatherworker required the working with and taking the life of an animal entrusted to their safe keeping.  A delicate balance and sensitivity were required to becoming a master in the trade.


Although the seriousness of life was always stressed, there were times of laughter, adventure, and joy.  When left with such unguarded moments Draccus would find himself running off carefee on a quest with some of his friends from training.  The freedom of those times released in his spirit the oppressive weight from a silent presence that grew within his thoughts. 


Late one evening, after the day's lessons had been completed, Draccus darted from shadow to shadow.  He was playing a game of sorts with friend of his.  Lannika a lady of the forest, who also had been born around the same time as he had been.  Together these two were constant companions and true friends.


Calling out with laughter in his voice, "Catch me if you can, Lannika.  I am as stealthy as a Rogue."  Jokingly referring to the few Night Elves that had taken to becoming knife dancers.


"Yeah, but not as stealthy as a Druid in cat form," Lannika responded from the other side of a tree, "My mother showed me her sleek feline form the other day."


Appearing from behind Lannika, Draccus threw a stick at the young lady who was watching the woods for any sign of him with her silvery eyes.  She turned ever so fast on her feet to face him.  She saw that familiar mischievous grin on the face of her friend.


"What are you up to?  I recognize that look and we always end up in trouble because of it."  She responded with a voice that was light hearted and attempting an air of innocence.  Truth be know she also had equally gotten them into as much trouble before.


"I overheard my father talking with someone" he replied, "and they mentioned a place called Moonglade.  That is the place where I hear they train Druids in the different aspects and how to shift into various forms.  I think we might be going there soon, because the other person he was talking to was your father."


"Guess it is finally time we learn how to move like shadows" Lannika said with anticipation.  "Perhaps you would look better with fur, but I doubt you would be any faster."  With that jesting comment she turned and bound off into the woods daring him to catch her.


"I really get to learn how to become a powerful Cat" Draccus mused, "I wonder what that will be like.  To silently stake a prey and pounce with razor sharp claws and then dash off before anything else noticed.  Guess I will find out soon enough."


The Saga continues with....To Moonglade For First Time

The AiLill's First Steps

The wooden staircase curved in a gentle slope along the trunk of the tree allowing passage from the sleeping quarters to the common area below.  The leaves painted in rich purples, deep greens, and some even tinted in blues lightly dusted the walkway.  Malfurion Stormrage lead Farethilus and Galdrian Moonsayer towards the Night Elf community with the boy in their arms.  Upon reaching the lower platform a hush washed over those gathered, and all eyes turned in their direction.


By now the Moon had begun to cast her first beams of light, that pierced the darkness.  There were torches that aided in lighting the surrounding vale, but none that burned from tar or pitch that fumed the air with a rank smell.  The flames from these lamps that licked and danced in the air were of a magical source.  A light that shone clearly, illuminating the ground and all those nearest, all the while emitting a hue of arcane blue.


Glancing out at the faces, which increasingly grew more numerous as more came traveling in, Farethilus gasped in awe and awareness at those who had covered such distances.  A pair of Storm Crows glided in from the bows of the trees to rest on the ground before shape shifting into Night Elves.  In the distance he could hear the stealthy wings of several Hippogryphs ferrying their riders to this spot.


"Our brothers and sisters of the wood have come from far tonight to honor us and the celebration." Farethilus whispered to Galdrain. "I see two Feral Druids from Moonglade that teach the way of the Cat and Bear.  Behind that small crowd over there is another Druid hidden under a hooded cloak, but the form being much more stout then us Kaldorei I believe it is a Tauren Druid!"


Lady Galdrian tensed her sinewy muscles and stared directly at the Druid from the Plains, "If that horned creature so much as stomps the ground in aggression I will call forth a powerful blast of nature's wrath and knock it off its hoofed feet."


Malfurion missing nothing of their conversation turned his head slightly, "Peace Lady Moonsayer, I have invited our brothers and sisters of the Plains.  They are due an equal share of the joy as well as a place among our Circles as Druids.  We all are dedicated to preserving and protecting Nature and her allies, and we will not fight against one another.  Besides honored Sentinel, the Druid you would have tried to knock back is a sister of the Keepers of the Grove.  A powerful Restoration Guardian, and many have tried to knock her down."


Farethilus was busy scanning the crowd for anyone else that he might recognize or that would standout in this assemblage.  So focused on witnessing the swelling throngs of people before him, he hardly noticed the little boy in his arms becoming heavier and more active.  He looked at the boy in his arms that was looking back at him with puzzlement on his face.  The young Night Elf then turned his head around taking in the scene for the first time.  Gently setting the boy down, he stepped back to witness a profound moment.


Just several hours old, and already Draccus was entering into his first cycle of transformation as a Night Elf.  Although he was born with the seeing eyes of the amber glow, a rare gift bestowed at birth, what he now was experiencing all Night Elves before him had experienced.  The Changeling Cycle was little know outside of the society of Kaldorei.  A secret closely guarded and only shared with those entrusted within the Circle of Druids or the Priests of Elune.


Nature and magic weaved their essence into the very fibers of a Night Elf's body once he was born.  Often the process would leave marks or physical alterations on the young form.  The truth behind why outsiders and most villages were void of visible children was because there was an overwhelming force unleashed on newborns that sped up the growth and awareness of each child.  This was one of nature's ways of protecting the fledgling Night Elf from natural predators like spiders, wild animals, and from the weaknesses of a defenseless youth.  This transformation also aided in the development of communication, intellect, strength, stamina, and agility.  One of the greatest of all believed reasons why every single Night Elf underwent the Changeling Cycle was to form a shared bond and link to the community and with nature and magic itself.  This ageless symbiosis created an avenue for an individual to draw power, guidance, and form a connection, as was fitting to their unique calling, from the elements and life around them.  Some would use this medium for the mending and healing of what was once broken and dead, to bring new life in plants and flesh alike.  Others would channel the focus, rage, and powers of nature and arcane itself in raining down devastation to enemies or battling whatever foe may stand against them.


And indeed the transformation had affected Draccus deeply, for he was aware and stronger then he was just moments ago.  His limbs had lengthened to a degree and while not yet capable of bearing weight other then his own, he no longer appeared a newborn. He was a youngling with an inner strength that was fully his and also ever growing and changing.  He heard the voices and whispers of those that stood near to him.  Many faces stared back at him with a shared knowledge of his passage from birth to life to awareness, and he was comforted by that.


How long have I been able to perceive clearly those that were older and taller then me, but of the same blood, Draccus wondered.


He gazed with instant recognition upon the two Night Elves standing at his side.  A strong and gentle hand held his small left hand tightly, this lord Night Elf was none other then his father.  He sensed that bond more firm then the ground he stood on.  His other hand had grabbed a fist full of emerald silk fabric cascading down a beautiful lady Night Elf.  The  flowing robe was complimented by a cloak of pure white, pinned with a delicate jewel, and her head was crowned in a wreath.  A mother's eyes looked down on him, and he felt loved as no one could describe.


A third prominent Night Elf stood in front of him and the way he towered over the boy and commanded respect from the entire crowd, he wondered who this mighty lord of importance was.  And then this figure of importance spoke in a voice that sounded far and wide across the vale and into the hearts of everyone gathered.


"This is the awaited boy, Draccus Moonsayer!  It is with him that I will entrust great responsibility and power when the times comes.  He is one of us, as we all can see by his eyes that glow brilliant amber, but he will need all of us to prepare him for what lays ahead.  He will one day wield the full forces of both Nature and Arcane in the balance of combat, taking on the sacred form within the Druid Circle of a Moonkin.  He also will become a Guardian of Restoration that the Dragon Aspects will come to know and many allies will rest assured in."


Upon the declaration being bestowed by the Archdruid and with both parents at his side Draccus took his first steps into the world eager to embark on his foretold future.


The Saga continues with....Times of Raising Them Up

The Beginnings of A Druid's Tale

"The world is upon the brink of all out war, as the races from all across Azeroth are forced to claim their place in history.  The elements and forces of nature rage against the edges of civilization, as factions battle over petty feuds.  Humans, Dwarves, and Gnomes are not the only key players in this struggle.  Out of the shadows of night and from the deep reaches of the forest a forgotten people are needed to cease their isolation and stand strong again.  This is the tale of one such person, one who would reunite the races and fight the coming Nightmare."-Ysera


The cool breeze of the evening filtered through the forest canopy of Nordrassil.  The majestic tree reached towards the heavens like a pillar overshadowing the landscape for miles around. While the leaves gently swayed from the currents of the air under their canopy stirred a small community of Kaldorei.  The Kaldorei were known in the Common tongue as Night Elves.  In this secluded vale there was new life being brought forth into the world.


For many years the Circles of the Druids, belonging to different Aspects, had awaited the birth of a son who would rise up to become a great leader and champion.  This long awaited champion would also carry a great burden of responsibility and legacy.  Finally the waiting was over, this was at last that watched for hour.  The forest stilled itself to listen to the first cries of a baby who held such a promise.


The family that was to bear this youth was under the headship of an Archdruid, Farethilus Moonsayer.  An elder well respected for his wisdom and battle tested courage.  He had stood among the ranks of Night Elves eons ago in a bloody conflict against The Burning Legion. An enemy numbering in the thousands bent on total destruction of the world and nature itself.  Farethilus had called upon the fury of nature and arcane powers in defeating those foes.  Still bearing the scars and memories of that distant past, he would never forget.  But from those long ago wars he also maintained a deep bond and friendship with a fellow Druid named Malfurion Stormrage.  A powerful leader of all the people of the wood, once lost to the Emerald Dream.


In Farethilus's lodge there were many family members and friends from nearby groves that helped in preparing the feast celebrating the House's newest member.  There was an atmosphere of eager expectation.The tables and dishes were being filled with the finest fruits, nuts, and breads.  At one of these tables two lady Night Elves chattered excitedly.


"Can you believe how hard this pregnancy was on Lady Galdrian?" the taller one said to her friend that was placing the wooden bowls and silver goblets around the long table.  "She carried him longer then most children of our kind.  And then the strange manners of the Priests from the Temple or Druids from the Cenarion Circle stopping by and putting their hand on her belly whenever they visited?"


Her friend replied, "They must know something special about him that has not been revealed yet.  We will get to see him soon enough.  The Archdruid Stormrage is up there with them now.  Just image what he had to do in order to travel here and oversee the birth, that alone is worth taking note of." 


The smell of roasted meat from a freshly slain stag rose in the air, the aroma of spices and dressing wet every one's appetite.  Rarely was meat eaten, but this sweet dish had been given as a gift to honor the Moonsayer's newest addition and those gathered.  A neighboring Night Elf lord was busily pouring out flasks of berry wine from his own vintage into tall pitchers to be shared freely.  He hummed to himself with merriment.  A feast was a splendid occasion to drink and laugh, and he privately enjoyed supplying his beverages at any gathering.  All the guests assembled now awaited the presentation of the boy.


The Night Elves weren't the only ones gathering to witness this moment in history.  On the surrounding hills a pair of Centaurs and a few Dryads stood silently watching, while a pride of Night Sabers sat nearby.  All of them were staring at the upper window of a home crafted from the living tree.


Inside that open window was a room belonging to Lady Galdrian Moonsayer.  The life mate and bride of Archdruid Farethilus, she was cherished by all who knew her.  As a women Night Elf she had been among the first of her people to join the Cenarion Circle as a female Druid.  There was a time when that special class of Wardens guarding Nature and the Emerald Dream were only allowing noble male heirs to become part of their ranks.   She had studied under the teachings of the Keepers of the Grove, mastering the healing arts which she could tap into mending any wound, even bring some back from a fatal demise.  She had also served several years as a Sentinel in the conflict against outside intruders in the Southern forests in Ashenvale.  A strong capable women of nobility, a battle proven Druid healing her allies, and now a mother.


Laying back on the soft bed, with feather stuffed cushions supporting her, she hummed an ancient love lullaby to her son.  The bond between a mother and son is a deep connection that stays with the mother long after her child has left the home, and Lady Galdrian wanted to tattoo this memory in detail on her heart.  In her arms lay her swaddled baby.  The difficult and long months were worth the reward.


"I will be your mother and you will be my son no matter what comes in the future.  May there always be love and peace with you." She thought to herself with uncertainty.  "If only Elune would spare him from the fate that has been foretold though the ages awaiting him."  A single tear escaped her eyelids as she continued to hum over him, a song of sweetness and sorrow.


The joys of a newborn child swam against the waves of concerns, because life was full of hardships.  No one would face the hardships that lay out in time before this innocent youth . His very emergence into the twilight world had brought much joy to these two parents.  Although the details and the exact encounters his story would encompass remained shrouded in untold mists.  In the minds of these parents so intimately involved, it was like watching a thunderous, dark, and limitless storm approaching on the horizon.  The winds of trouble pushed against their inner thoughts, with the force of a gale hurricane.  Holding out for hope their minds' eye looked not to the blackest of the storm but to the calm and clear air that followed all storms.  The promise of better things to come afterwards.


Malfurion Stormrage stood in the corner of the room silently and patiently looking on as these two Night Elves, dear friends, lived in the moment with their son.  Never did the spectacle of seeing new life taking its first breath fail to fill him with awe.  The gift of life was a dear treasure to him personally.  In light of their lost immortality the Archdruid appreciated each moment in the centuries that his people still had to walk out.  Having once been blessed to never know the cold touch of life's limits, he held on to the warmth that was so near to him now.  Over time that warmth would fade cooler and cooler till like the Autumn season's leaves they would be blown away on the chill of Winter's reach.


Farethilus gathered the boy in his arms and carried him over to the hearth that glowed with magical light and warmth.  The father then sat in a chair of solid birch wood that had once grown up from that very floor and remained fixed as a place of rest and reflection, before the crackling fire.


The father spoke to himself, Galdrian, and Malfurion all at the same, "What shall we name him?"


For a long time neither of the three said anything aloud. There were to many questions, thoughts, and paths that stretched out before them.  A name held power and the name with which this young night elf would be known by would ring out across the whole of Kalimdor, even carrying across the seas of all Azeroth.  As the noise from downstairs started to settle and the rhythm of the night floated in from the forest, a whisper quietly passed among them.


Staring up into the eyes of his father for the first time the baby's eye beamed with a rare amber glow for one so young.  This hint of promise was not missed by Farethilus or Malfurion, and they both looked at each other with a nod of agreement.  Newborn night elves were normally born with silver eyes that reflected like the moonlight off still water, but this boy was different.  Some how they were aged and full of seeing with understanding.


"His name shall be Draccus Moonsayer", the father spoke towards the mother.  "For he was born with a sign and is full of promise.  His eyes glow brilliant amber long before most druids ever change, and he will be a force of both damage and healing in time."


She turned unexpectedly towards the Great Archdruid Stormrage and asked pointedly, "What will he become?  And will you do all that you can to see that he is prepared?


"Who the boy becomes and if he is prepared to face the journey ahead is not mine to decide Lady Moonsayer, for we can only play our parts.  The remaining task of fulfilling the promise before him, rests with him."


Malfurion then moved to the hearth and looked out the window to the eager crowd gathered below, "I will consult the Centurion Circle and the other Aspects of the Druids to see what paths may be open, but for now lets us go downstairs and share with everyone this Night Elf named Draccus."


The Saga continues with....The Ailills First Steps