Chapter 3

The joyful atmosphere of celebration filled the Proudmoore estate as friends and family gathered to commemorate the birth of Jaina's little brother, Tandred. The estate was adorned with colorful banners and flowers, and the air was filled with laughter and music. Jaina, a lively and precocious five-year-old, was the epitome of excitement, proudly showing off her baby brother to everyone who would listen.

Among the guests was a now fourteen-year-old Derek Proudmoore, Jaina's older brother. His eyes sparkled with pride as he watched his sister's antics. By his side stood Thorwin, now seven years old, his eyes wide with wonder at the festivities surrounding him. Derek had taken a protective role over the younger Thorwin, and the two had formed a close friendship since they first met.

As Jaina noticed Thorwin amidst the crowd, her eyes lit up with joy. She ran towards him, her tiny hands holding on to his, and dragged him toward a table filled with sweets. "Thorwin, you have to try these! They're so yummy!" Jaina exclaimed, offering him a piece of cake with a mischievous grin.

Thorwin chuckled, ruffling her hair affectionately. "I'm sure they're delicious, Jaina. You know, Derek and I were just talking about how lucky Tandred is to have such an awesome big sister like you!"

Derek nodded in agreement, smiling at his little sister's enthusiasm. "Indeed, Tandred is very lucky. But so are we to have you in our lives, Jaina."

The three of them spent the day together, exploring the estate's gardens and playing games. Jaina's boundless energy and curiosity infected her older companions, and soon, they were all racing through the gardens, laughing joyfully.

As the sun began to set, Jaina nestled close to Thorwin, her eyelids drooping from a day of excitement. "Will you promise to stay for a while and play with us, Thorwin?" she whispered sleepily.

Thorwin smiled warmly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "Of course, Jaina. I promise. Friends forever, right?"

"Friends forever," Jaina echoed, giving him a sleepy smile before succumbing to slumber.

As the celebration drew to its peak, Thorwin found himself caught in a contemplative mood. He cherished the bonds he had formed with Jaina and Derek, grateful for the friendships that had blossomed over the years.

Amidst the festivities, Lady Adriana, Thorwin's mother, observed her son's interactions with a mix of pride and concern. Her thoughts were divided between the joyous occasion and her growing worries about her father, Anduin Lothar, who was in Stormwind City facing the escalating problem with the orcs.

Later that evening, as the festivities subsided, Lady Adriana sat in the study, her expression pensive. Thorwin approached her, sensing her unease. "Mother, is something bothering you?"

Adriana sighed, gently brushing her fingers through Thorwin's hair. "Yes, my dear. I am worried about your grandfather. Stormwind is facing a difficult situation with the invaders, and I feel compelled to visit him. But I worry about leaving you and your father behind."

Thorwin's concern mirrored his mother's. "I understand your worry, Mother, but I don't want you to go alone. I want to come with you, to be there for you and Grandfather, just like you and Father are always there for me."

Adriana hesitated, knowing that the journey to Stormwind City could be perilous, but she couldn't deny Thorwin's earnest determination. "Oh, my brave boy," she said softly, "you have a kind and courageous heart. But it is a dangerous journey, and I worry for your safety."

Thorwin's gaze met his mother's with unwavering resolve. "I know, Mother. But we are a family, and we face challenges together. Besides, Grandfather has always taught me about bravery and standing up for what is right. I want to be there to support you, and maybe, even learn from him directly."

Adriana couldn't help but feel immense pride for her son. His words touched her deeply, and she knew that his sense of duty and compassion were a testament to the values she and Lord Stormsong had instilled in him.

"Very well," Adriana said finally, her voice tinged with emotion. "If you promise to stay close to me and follow my instructions, you may accompany me to Stormwind City next month. But remember, we must remain cautious and vigilant."

Thorwin beamed with excitement and gratitude, hugging his mother tightly. "Thank you, Mother. I promise I will be careful, and I'll make you proud."

Over the course of the next month, Thorwin's time at the Proudmoore estate was a kaleidoscope of unforgettable moments, each etched with the vibrancy of cherished friendship and the wonder of exploration. The days unfolded like a tapestry of joy. Thorwin, Jaina, and Derek formed an inseparable trio, their laughter and camaraderie a testament to the bond they shared. They would rise with the sun, eager to embark on new adventures within the sprawling gardens of the estate. The scent of blooming flowers wafted through the air as they ran through a maze of hedges, imagining themselves as brave knights on epic quests to save the noble princess, and pirates in search of hidden treasures.

In those magical hours, the Proudmoore estate became a canvas for their dreams, a place where imagination knew no bounds. From the treetops to the labyrinthine paths, every corner held a story waiting to be told. Thorwin would often weave tales of his ancestors, the legendary Tidesages, and the valiant deeds of his grandfather, Anduin Lothar. Jaina and Derek were enthralled by these epic sagas, their eyes shining with wonder as they lived vicariously through the heroes of old.

Their adventures extended beyond the estate's borders, for Boralus, the bustling harbor city, became their playground of discovery. Accompanied by a group of sturdy guards, they roamed the cobbled streets, delighting in the sights and sounds of the maritime metropolis. The clanging of blacksmiths' hammers, the calls of merchants peddling their wares, and the distant melody of sea shanties painted the backdrop of their escapades.

One day, the trio stood tall atop the grand seawall that guarded Boralus, their eyes fixed upon the vast expanse of the open sea. The azure waters shimmered like a sapphire gem, the sun's golden rays dancing upon its surface. Ships of all sizes dotted the horizon, some docking gracefully at the harbor, others setting sail to the unknown.

Thorwin lay there in awe, his heart swelling with admiration for the bustling maritime world that unfolded before him. But it was not just the ships and the sea that captivated him; it was the awe-inspiring gate, a grand portal connecting the city to the vast ocean beyond. To him, it symbolized the unity of land and sea, a gateway of endless possibilities.

As they ventured deeper into the city, Thorwin marveled at the maritime marvels - shipyards resounding with the symphony of shipwrights and craftsmen, and merchant stalls displaying exotic goods from distant lands. He absorbed the rich tapestry of cultures that converged in Boralus, a hub of diversity that reflected the grandeur of Azeroth.

Amidst the hustle and bustle, Thorwin's friendship with Jaina and Derek grew deeper. They shared not only joyous adventures but also quiet moments of reflection, their bond forged by the shared experiences of childhood and the mutual support they offered each other. One sunny afternoon, they decided to have a picnic by the shimmering lake on the estate grounds. Adriana arranged a sumptuous spread of sandwiches, fruits, and sweet treats. As they sat on a cozy blanket, their laughter echoed through the serene surroundings.

Thorwin and Derek shared stories about their aspirations and dreams. Derek expressed his desire to become a skilled naval captain, overseeing Proudmoore fleet, while Thorwin spoke passionately about his admiration for the valorous knights of Stormwind and his yearning to protect the realm. Jaina, in her innocent wisdom, revealed her own grand aspiration. "I want to be like Guardian Aegwynn," she said with a determined look in her eyes. "She was one of the greatest guardians and defenders of Azeroth. I want to protect our people and stand against any threat, just like she did."

Thorwin and Derek exchanged surprised glances before smiling at their little sister's noble ambition. "You would make an incredible guardian, Jaina," Thorwin said, ruffling her hair affectionately. "With your heart full of kindness and your determination, there's no doubt you'll become a formidable protector of our kingdom."

"Absolutely," Derek added. "And you already bring so much joy and happiness to those around you. You have a special gift, Jaina."

Jaina beamed, feeling encouraged by her brother and friend's support. As the days went by, Thorwin and Jaina developed a playful rivalry, often engaging in friendly competitions. Whether it was a race through the estate or a contest to see who could eat the most cookies without getting caught, their laughter was infectious, bringing joy to those around them.

One evening, Lady Proudmoore invited Thorwin to the library, where she showed him ancient tomes and maps of Kul Tiras. Thorwin was fascinated by the rich history and lore of the land, soaking in every detail. Lady Proudmoore saw the spark of curiosity in his eyes and promised to teach him more about the history and magic of their kingdom.

In the morning, Thorwin would join Sir Cedric for his swordsmanship training. The seasoned knight would share tales of his own adventures and impart valuable lessons on bravery, discipline, and the true meaning of chivalry. Thorwin's skills with the sword continued to improve under Sir Cedric's guidance, and the mentor-student bond between them strengthened.

As the day of departure to Stormwind City drew near, Thorwin couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. He would miss the carefree days spent with Jaina and Derek, but he knew that the journey ahead would be a significant chapter in his life. Saying farewell to his friends was bittersweet, but they promised to keep in touch through letters.

On the day of their departure, the courtyard of Proudmoore estate was abuzz with activity. Thorwin's guards made sure everything was prepared for the journey, while Adriana exchanged warm farewells with her family. Derek clapped Thorwin on the shoulder, offering him a reassuring smile. "Take care, Thorwin. I know you'll make us proud in Stormwind City."

Jaina, clutching a small stuffed lion in her arms, looked up at Thorwin with big eyes. "Promise you'll come back and visit soon, okay?"

Thorwin knelt down and hugged Jaina tightly. "I promise, Jaina. I'll come back, and we'll have more adventures together."

With heartfelt goodbyes and well-wishes, Thorwin and Adriana set off on their journey to Stormwind City, accompanied by Sir Cedric and their loyal guards. Over the next month, Thorwin, Adriana, and Sir Cedric embarked on their long journey from Kul Tiras to Stormwind City. The vast sea stretched before them, its waves reflecting the sunlight like a thousand dancing stars. Thorwin had never been on such a grand adventure before, and the anticipation of reaching the illustrious Stormwind City filled him with excitement.

During their voyage, Thorwin spent his days helping the crew aboard the ship, learning the ropes of sailing, and listening to their tales of maritime prowess. He also took the time to write letters to Jaina and Derek, telling them about the wonders of the open sea and how he looked forward to sharing his experiences with them once they were reunited.

As the ship sailed across the vast ocean, Adriana would often sit with Thorwin on the deck, gazing out at the horizon. She shared stories of her childhood in Stormwind City, her memories of her father, and the heroic deeds that had shaped the history of Azeroth. These stories fueled Thorwin's determination to become a hero in his own right, upholding the legacy of his family and the noble knights of Stormwind.

One night, as the ship sailed under the starry sky, Thorwin and Adriana sat together in deep contemplation. "Mother," Thorwin began softly, "do you ever feel scared or unsure, facing the challenges that lie ahead?"

Adriana smiled gently, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Of course, my dear. It's natural to feel fear, especially when facing the unknown. But what matters is how we face those fears. We stand tall, guided by our principles and the love we have for our family and our people. Together, we will find the strength to overcome any obstacle."

Thorwin nodded, feeling a sense of comfort in his mother's words. The journey was not just about reaching Stormwind City; it was also about the bond he shared with Adriana and the courage they found in each other.

Finally, after weeks of sailing southeast, the sight of Stormwind City's grand towers emerged on the horizon, a majestic welcome after their long journey. As the ship from Kul Tiras docked in the bustling port of Stormwind City, Thorwin and Adriana stepped onto the unfamiliar ground. The grandeur of the city left them in awe as they gazed at the towering spires and the majestic Stormwind Keep in the distance. Despite the excitement of finally reaching their destination, they knew that their arrival was unannounced and could raise eyebrows.

Indeed, it was only by the evening, as the golden rays of the setting sun bathed the city in a warm glow, that a contingent of men bearing the lion's insignia approached them. "Greetings, Lady Adriana Stormsong," one of the guards spoke, his voice respectful but with a hint of surprise. "King Llane Wrynn has been informed of your arrival. Please follow us to Stormwind Keep."

Thorwin and Adriana exchanged a knowing glance. While they had hoped to remain inconspicuous, it seemed their presence had not gone unnoticed. They followed the guards, their hearts pounding with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

As they entered Stormwind Keep, the grandeur of the throne room was overwhelming. The regal banners of Stormwind adorned the walls, and in the center of the room sat King Llane Wrynn, flanked by his trusted advisors. Among them was a figure that Thorwin instantly recognized - the legendary Anduin Lothar, his grandfather and a hero of the Kingdom, commanded a powerful presence. Despite his white, weathered hair, his towering frame embodied the strength and resilience of a seasoned warrior. Thorwinn's heart swelled with pride as he observed the inspiring man who had carved his name into the annals of history.

As Adriana and Thorwinn approached, Anduin Lothar's eyes fell upon his daughter and grandson. He rose from his seat, his expression stern and grave. "Adriana, you arrive during these dire times?" he admonished, his voice tinged with concern. "Stormwind faces a grave threat from the orc invasion, and your arrival puts both you and the boy in harm's way."

Adriana bowed respectfully. "Father, I understand the gravity of the situation, but I couldn't stand idle while you faced danger alone. I brought Thorwin with me; he insisted on coming to support you."

Thorwin stepped forward, determination burning in his eyes. "Grandfather, I want to be by your side. I want to learn from you, to become a defender of the realm like you and the brave knights of Stormwind."

Anduin Lothar regarded Thorwin with a mixture of pride and concern. "You have your mother's courage and your grandfather's spirit, Thorwin," he said, his sternness softening. "But this is no place for a young boy. The times are dangerous, and the orcs show no mercy."

Thorwin stood his ground. "I promise to be cautious, Grandfather, but I cannot sit back while you risk your life to protect the people. Let me learn, let me be trained, and I'll prove that I can be of help to you."

Anduin Lothar looked at Thorwin, seeing the unwavering determination in his eyes. Though young, he knew that Thorwin was his own person, destined to carve his path in history, just as Anduin Lothar had done before him. "Very well," he finally relented. "You may stay, but you will remain close to your mother and under the watchful eye of Sir Cedric."

Thorwin nodded gratefully, his heart swelling with pride at his grandfather's trust. Adriana embraced her father, feeling a sense of relief that she could be with him during these trying times.

As days turned into weeks, Thorwin immersed himself in the life of Stormwind City. He trained diligently with the knights, learning the ways of swordplay and chivalry. Sir Cedric proved to be a patient mentor, instilling in Thorwin the values of honor and courage.

Amidst the air of war, Thorwin found solace in the camaraderie of the drafted soldiers. He befriended other young recruits who shared his determination to defend Azeroth. He and Jaina, started exchanging letters, sharing their experiences and mishaps.

He had heard that the battles outside were fierce, and the stakes were high. Stormwind City faced relentless attacks from the orc forces, and every day brought new challenges. Thorwin witnessed firsthand the sacrifices made by the defenders of Stormwind, and he understood the weight of the responsibility they bore.

During moments of respite, he found himself drawn to the Cathedral of Light. The majestic structure, with its grand arches and awe-inspiring stained-glass windows, beckoned him with an inexplicable pull. Intrigued by the notion of the Light, he ventured inside one day, guided by a gentle curiosity.

Inside the cathedral, the air was hushed and filled with an aura of tranquility. Candles flickered, casting warm light on the marble statues and intricately designed altars. As he walked deeper into the sacred space, Thorwin noticed a group of people gathered around an elderly priest, who spoke with a gentle yet commanding presence.

Intrigued, Thorwin approached the gathering and listened intently to the priest's teachings. The words of the priest resonated with him, speaking of compassion, forgiveness, and the power of the Light to guide and protect. He found solace in the teachings, and it felt as though a newfound understanding was dawning upon him.

As the priest concluded his sermon, he noticed Thorwin standing among the crowd. "Greetings, young one," he said with a warm smile. "You have a look of eager curiosity. Have you come seeking the wisdom of the Light?"

Thorwin nodded, a spark of curiosity in his eyes. "Yes, sir. I've heard about the Light, and it intrigues me. I wish to learn more about its teachings and its significance."

The priest smiled kindly, placing a reassuring hand on Thorwin's shoulder. "The Light is a force of goodness and hope, a guiding beacon in the darkness. It teaches us to stand against evil and to protect those in need. If you are willing to open your heart to its teachings, I shall be honored to be your guide."

And so began Thorwin's journey of understanding the ways of the Light. He spent time in the cathedral, attending lectures and receiving personal guidance from the priest. The teachings of the Light spoke to him on a profound level, reaffirming the values of honor, courage, and compassion that he held dear.

After his travel from the Cathedral, he found himself drawn to the royal court of Stormwind at the behest of his grandfather. There, he met King Llane's son, a boy five years older, Prince Varian Wrynn, who was destined to ascend the throne but was still a few years away from taking the mantle of leadership. Varian was an enthusiastic and adventurous young boy, and he was intrigued by Thorwin's lineage as a descendant of their kingdom's knight commander and his mentor, Anduin Lothar.

Even with the age gap, Varian and Thorwin quickly became inseparable friends, spending their days exploring the nooks and crannies of Stormwind City. They climbed the towers, roamed the markets, and even sneaked into the royal library to read tales of valor and heroism. Together, they dreamed of becoming protectors of the realm, defending Azeroth from any threats that dared to challenge their beloved home.

In the presence of Varian, Thorwin's understanding of leadership and heroism took on new dimensions. Varian, despite his young age, displayed a natural charisma and a sense of responsibility befitting a future king. He would often regale Thorwin with stories of his father, King Llane Wrynn, and the challenges of ruling a kingdom. Thorwin admired Varian's wisdom and determination, finding in him not just a friend but a kindred spirit in their pursuit of becoming great protectors of their people.

In addition to befriending Varian, Thorwin had the privilege of being able to understand more about his grandfather. Thorwin felt a deep sense of reverence and admiration for the hero of the kingdom. Anduin Lothar was wise and battle-hardened, yet he carried himself with a humble dignity that left a lasting impression on the young Stormsong.

Under Anduin Lothar's guidance, Thorwin learned not just the art of war and combat, but also the importance of selflessness and sacrifice for the greater good. The stories of Anduin's valorous deeds and his unyielding dedication to protecting Stormwind left Thorwin in awe. He realized that heroism was not just about wielding a sword but about standing for what was right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

As weeks turned into months, Thorwin's understanding of the Light, his friendship with Varian, and his mentorship under Anduin Lothar complemented each other, shaping him into a young man of great potential. The ideals of the Light - compassion, justice, and selflessness - became the foundation of his character, guiding him in his pursuit of becoming a protector of his people.

Amidst his exploration of the Light and his friendship with Varian, Thorwin also had the opportunity to learn from King Llane Wrynn himself. The king was a charismatic and wise leader, and he took a personal interest in the development of his friend's grandchild. He shared stories of his own experiences and imparted the wisdom of ruling with fairness and empathy.

"Thorwin," King Llane said, his voice filled with sincerity, "being a leader is not just about wielding power. It's about making difficult decisions for the greater good, even when they are not easy. It's about the welfare of your people, protecting them with wisdom and strength."

Thorwin nodded, taking the king's words to heart. "Your Majesty, I want to be a protector of my people, like my grandfather and the knights of Stormwind. I want to do what's right, no matter how hard it may be."

King Llane smiled, seeing the determination in Thorwin's eyes. "Then, my young friend, you are on the path of a true hero. Remember that leadership is not just about commanding, but also about listening, learning, and understanding the needs of those you lead. Your journey is just beginning, and I have no doubt that you will become a beacon of hope for the Stormsong people."