Asinity:
The battle spanned three hours into the evening that night, and would be counted as one of the Argent Crusade's largest pushes into Icecrown. Alongside the crusaders, many other factions fought; including many members of the Horde, such as the Lion's Pride of the Symphony. The Lion's Pride suffered only one loss that day, the squire of Sir Tyranithos Sunstriker. This evening would be written down in their records as the Pride's first campaign as a military unit, as well its first militaristic success.
It took close to an hour to mop up the remainder of the Scourge force, but eventually, the battlefield was cleared and the Argent Crusade force began reassembling at the Pinnacle. Highlord Tirion Fordring was dismounted, and all but two of his honor guard stood by him as he prepared to address his troops. Tirion stood on level ground, and clasped his hands together as he cleared his throat. His voice carried to all ears, resounding with victory.
"Victorious men and women of the Crusade, hear me now!" He began, with the response of hundreds of cheers and hoots. "We have taken the Pinnacle from the Scourge!" More applause came, and Asinity raised his fist in pride. "My brothers, my sisters! What you have done today shall be written in books, as the beginning of the end, for Arthas! Today we have sent a message to he and the ilk that follows like worms to his footsteps. That message is clear: no man shall betray the people and the forces of benevolence, and live long enough to splendor in their wake! You've earned your keep and a hundred times more, my loyal warriors! Rest easy tonight, for you have conquered the world! VICTORY!"
As he raised his fist in the air, every man and woman before him echoed his movement, and cheered "Victory!" at the tops of their lungs. Asinity and the Lion's Pride swelled with happiness, giving hugs and patting each other on the back. It was time to go home to Leos, the island of their little faction.
Three-quarters of the Crusade would be sent back to the Vanguard, leaving one-quarter as an occupying force at the Pinnacle. Knowing Tirion, however, Asinity knew that those sent to the Vanguard would receive a minor respite before heading back into battle. As he and the Pride readied their saddlebags and fed their mounts, the Highlord walked forward to address them, accompanied by two members of his honor guard. Asinity snapped to attention, saluting Tirion Fordring.
"Highlord, -sir-!" He exclaimed, sweeping one hand to his temple in a salute. He returned it to his side, and stood in attention. Tirion gave him a father's smile, and rested a hand on Asinity's shoulder. "Stand down, my friend. We're all equals here." The blond Paladin gave a grin and relaxed his posture. "Should have known by now, I suppose. Welcome, Highlord. It is an honor to be in your presence."
Tirion kept his smile and observed the Lion's Pride with an appraising eye, giving them each a favorable nod. "No, my friend. It is my own honor to be among all of you. Rarely have I seen men and women fight with such tenacity and dedication, and with such skill. If anyone among my force tonight earned a place in my veteran warriors, it was each and every one of you. My halls and anything else I can offer are welcome to all of you, for what you have done tonight. Thank you."
Asinity swelled with pride, and inclined his head into a deep nod, giving his companions a favored smile.
"As for you, Asinity." Tirion began, gaining the paladin's swift attention. "I saw you fight, tonight. By the Light, you almost blinded half of my army with your faith!" Asinity laughed with reddened cheeks, and ran a hand through his hair. "Well, I suppose it's been a long time coming, my lord. I've waited to be able to do that for a long time."
The Highord nodded. "Well, suffice it to say, I believe I finally have a name for you, my friend. Henceforth, you shall be known as Asinity Daes'vega, the White Lion." He exclaimed, giving a teethy grin as he pronounced the title. The Paladins clasped hands together and Asinity gave a stern nod. "Very well, Tirion. I'll wear the title with honor. Thank you."
"You're welcome. Just make sure that next time you do that, give us a warning, eh?" They both laughed, and after giving parting words, the Highlord left to address the rest of factions still getting ready to leave. Asinity turned on his heel, and stuck his thumbs through loops on his belt.
"Well, what say we get the hell home and take some time off? I'm thinking mutton sweetened with honey, and enough mead to drown ourselves in. Here, here?" He asked, a grin creeping up the side of his lips.
"Here here!" Came the joyous reply. Yes, there will be a remembrance for those who had fallen but moral looked good and the scourge had been successfully pushed back.
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