[Alliance] Chapter Five: Session Fifteen

Appearing Characters: Anachronos, Elissa Cross, Erazmin Mechagon, Gilveradin Windrunner, Ini Stormcoil, Kelsey Steelspark, Kinndy Sparkshine, Liiraluma, Motah Tallhorn, Riff, Samia Inkling, Seria, Soridormi, Teemo Manabrake, Thal'ena Dawnseeker, Uther Menethil, Velameestra Windrunner

Time-Lost Day 1

The patio that Soridormi had conjured materialized with a variety of refreshments and springs of water along the floating oasis. Basking in the nearby hot springs, covered in lily petals, were a half dozen creatures of various sizes that resembled large, chubby rodents with box-like heads and tiny ears. They were fully unbothered by the strangers’ presence.

Soridormi laid amidst a pile of cushions, and Anachronos likewise took a seat nearby. The rest of the group settled into cushions as well.

Soridormi says: If it would not be too much to ask, would you be so kind as to introduce yourselves?

The group went around and introduced themselves, and Soridormi mouthed the names as they are said. She nodded.

Soridormi says: Allow me to welcome you to our home away from home.

Uther Menethil says: Your hospitality is much appreciated.

Soridormi says: It’s the least I can do seeing you are likewise stranded. Kairozdormu informed us of the broad strokes, as well as the fact you have memories before being brought here.

Uther Menethil says: Is that especially unusual?

Soridormi says: It is.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: I certainly don’t.

Soridormi says: Everyone brought in up to this point has no memories of the event. The specifics were erased for us. However, now that Chronormu was able to share with us the nature of her own capture, we have more to work off of than we did before. I am not certain how you were able to circumvent this strange circumstance… but, you have my thanks for doing so.

Velameestra Windrunner says: There was a device that did it.

Vel utilized illusion magic to conjure a replica of the strange, hourglass-like device that had emitted the blast of magic that had swept them out of time.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Chromie was able to trap it in a time stop. I was able to analyze it before it went off… unfortunately not much came of it.

Soridormi leaned forward to take a closer look at the illusion.

Soridormi says: Absolutely fascinating. This is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. It is a device that capitalizes on the magic our flight uses, but the mechanisms are unlike anything we’ve seen. It’s almost an infusion of… well, things that have never should have met. An impossible device. And unfortunately, that narrows down who our culprit could be very little. Thaxdormu is not a name I’ve ever heard of. Perhaps an alias, or a member of our flight that has come from another timeway. Or perhaps a combination of factors. With my vision clouded as it is, I am unsure if the answer will make itself known to us.

Liiraluma says: I need to ask a question.

Soridormi says: I wager you have many.

Liiraluma says: Are there multiple of you in all the timelines? I imagine there are different versions of others, but if one is outside the timestream…

Anachronos and Soridormi smile.

Soridormi says: You have every right to be confused. It takes members of our flight many centuries to truly understand, and even so, one’s understanding is only as deep a matter of minutes while being as wide as hours. But, to answer your question, yeah, there are multiple version of any given person at any moment in time.

Liiraluma says: Okay. I was curious if your flight was out of time or in time, but it might be both.

Anachronos says: Well, at the moment, you may be more right than you think. Under normal circumstances, yes. I have encountered and conversed with myself in other timelines, and other worlds, and in previous and future versions of our own timeline. It is terribly confusing and also fascinating. But this place… we’ve come to believe its nature is… I do not believe that is the case any longer.

Soridormi says: I would want to know everything that you have to tell me, but I feel I have been informed of most of it. Anachronos has kept me apprised. You see, I was the first that was brought here. Others followed shortly after, least of which, my beloved Nozdormu. More have come over the years until now I believe most of the flight can be found in this place. Whoever is doing this has an intimate knowledge of us, and that is why I have every reason to believe it is likely not only a member of our own flight, but one with a great deal of power and knowledge of all our members. I do not know what that means, but I hope we can find out in time. This all has to be terribly confusing, and I apologize for that, and I apologize my explanations may create more questions.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: I’m trying not to think too hard.

Soridormi says: Sometimes that is the wisest course of action.

Liiraluma says: Oh I’m going to think about it.

Soridormi smiled.

Soridormi says: That being said, if there are questions you have, I wouldn’t mind answering them before we speak on other matters.

Velameestra Windrunner says: You mentioned it was curious you didn’t know us…

Liiraluma says: I was going to ask that. Is that rare?

Soridormi says: My knowledge of the time ways is not as concrete as one might think. It’s more like having the ability to experience endless possibilities. We cannot know what the right or wrong answer is, but… it has been a great many many years and lifetimes since I have met someone I truly do not know. Most of the times, it is a strange feeling of deja vu. As the prime consort, I am the closest to Nozdormi’s burden. His sight is unmatched, but I still feel this to a lesser degree, as do all our kin. Thus meeting a new face is like… encountering someone you feel you’ve met before, yet your faces and names are not known to me. Most of them, at least.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: How is that possible though?

Soridormi says: I do not know. It could simply be that my sequestration in this realm has dulled my senses.

She glanced at Anachronos, who then nodded.

Soridormi says: …Or that your existences have not been known to the timeways until after my sequestration. Since after I was brought to this place.

She looked around the group.

Soridormi says: There are some who are familiar. That evoke that feeling. Your stories may be different, but your names and faces are familiar in that foggy way…

She looked specifically at the party.

Soridormi says: But yours are not. Gilveradin and Velameestra Windrunner, Seria, Liiraluma… these are names that are new to my ears.

Velameestra Windrunner says: ...How frequently does your flight tamper with events?

Soridormi shook her head.

Soridormi says: We are forbidden to do so. We preserve the timeways and prevent them from colliding with and influencing each other. And to ensure the timeline is unmolested by outside factors. By those who would seek to break the flow of time. This is dangerous magic that we have seen the dangers of first hand. Yet, I fear our culprit may be doing just that.

Velameestra Windrunner says: There was a specific event that he supposedly influenced. One concerning the Guardian Aegwynn.

Soridormi furrowed her brow.

Soridormi says: In what way?

Velameestra Windrunner says: He tried to convince her to kill Medivh. When he was still in his dormancy. Supposedly Thaxdormu warned her that it was the only way to destroy the evil that had manifested inside him, but she chose to take the powers back instead.

Soridormi rubbed her chin.

Soridormi says: I know of this event… it is one that unfolds a great deal of tragedy across Azeroth, but it is one that… it may be as I feared. I believe this Thaxdormu seeks to change time, but I believe your existences may be a by-product of those attempts.

Velameestra Windrunner says: …So we’re mistakes?

Soridormi says: That is not the right way to look at it.

Uther Menethil says: Accidents?

Soridormi says: Closer perhaps. Were I only able to access the timeways, I could maybe find an answer… but we are unable to do so since being trapped here. I do not know what this is. But your presence is not a coincidence. I believe it is an opportunity. One in which we may correct everything that has unraveled here. And prevent any further damage from unveiling across the time ways.

Teemo Manabrake says: You keep mentioning the timeways? What exactly is that?

Anachronos says: Think of the timeways like a rainstorm. As you fly through it, you see a thousand raindrops plummeting towards you. Some will brush across you. Others will land on the ground. Others will fall in your eye and evoke whatever response that would bring. While most walk their path and are influenced by the timelines, while they may feel the push and pull of destiny and free will, choosing which raindrop would become theirs, we exist in the storm. We see the ones that fall around us as well as towards us. Our Aspect, my father, he sees the storm entirety. He knows every raindrop. Drinks each one in a flurry of what ifs and what could bes. We experience lesser degrees, but even the youngest of our kind can feel the rain.

Teemo Manabrake says: So… is there another one in each raindrop?

Anachronos says: More or less. It’s terribly confusing. The raindrops can feel us as we can feel them. And in time, the raindrops coalesce into a great river we call the timeway. But in the same way that pollutants can seek to dam and poison the stream, so too can the timeway be damaged. It is our responsibility to ensure the current flows strong, and the many drops can feed the timeway without incident. So the timeline can be preserved.

Soridormi looked at Vel.

Soridormi says: This might get confusing. But the event that you spoke of… it is one I’m familiar with. The fall of Aegwynn. At the core of the timeways is a stream. A timeline from which all others diverge. Ensuring it is the first step on ensuring the timeway remains strong, remains clean. Throughout this timeline, there are events that unfold. Some of joy and celebration, and others of great and terrible sorrow. These events… many of us in the bronze flight call them canon events. Things that are replicated across many timelines, or are places of deviation for others. The more a timeline deviates, the more the canon events change, the further it diverges from the center of the stream. And with time, those timelines can diverge entirely. History abhors this. It seeks to correct it. In the same way that water flows with gravity, time tries to keep things in a semi-linear state. That doesn’t mean there’s no agency, indeed, the path is dictated by the choices of the creatures in it, but these pivotal moments… if too many deviate, it can cause destabilizations in the timeway. It can threaten to upend the entire system.

Uther Menethil says: Are the Shadowlands also part of the timeway?

Soridormi nodded.

Soridormi says: The outer planes and the inner planes all abide the flow of time in their own ways. If you’re wondering if there’s a separate afterlife in each timeline, I believe so, though I cannot say I’ve borne witness to it. The mysteries of the Shadowlands are outside my own purview.

Uther Menethil says: But wherever we are is outside the timeway?

Soridormi says: Yes. And that is something of great concern. I have been led to believe… I’ve spoken to the others. And with each one, more of our kind vanish. From your timeline, from our timeline, and from others. Wherever this place is, I believe it is a seal deeper than the histories you know. I fear that while we are here, we simply cannot exist elsewhere. Every other version of me is trapped here. Every other version of each and every one of our flight is trapped here. The Aspect is trapped here. We have not been able to tend to the timeways… and I fear what the ramifications could be. How that stream has deviated. It is all the more reason we seek a way to free ourselves.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: Do you see time as it passes here?

Soridormi says: How do you mean?

Gilveradin Windrunner says: Does this place have its own timeway?

Soridormi says: This place is beyond a stream. I cannot predict the events here. The prediction of events is already difficult. As the timeway flows by, we see an infinite amount of possibilities, yet here, we cannot see. It is as if a great hand shields us from the rain drops, to continue the metaphor.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: You wouldn’t be able to see what’s already occurred then?

Soridormi shook her head.

Soridormi says: I only know what I’ve seen with my eyes. There is a place on Azeroth. It has been known by many names to many cultures. But many of them share a single concept, one that would translate to the Timeless Isle. It is a place that is beyond the linear flow of time. There are legends of it appearing across history for short stints, only to vanish once more. It has become an object of myth, a legend, a sanctuary for some, a promised land for others. I have reason to believe that this island we are on was once the same timeless isle, this magical phenomenon. It mostly appeared in the south seas. The cultures there had many myths. There were towns here. Temples. Ruins. But those places and people are long gone. I found only echoes of what once was. I do not know if they were removed, if they were killed, or if they were perhaps never here to begin with. But either way, this place has been changed from the natural anomaly that it was. The gnomes call this island Mechagon. I believe it to be yet another identity this place has come to know over the many years.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I imagine the nature of the Timeless Isle was a mystery even to your flight, then?

Soridormi says: It is. We have watched. Some theories have it as an island that flits between timelines, others are that it is untouched by time, and another is that it is a phenomenon that cannot be understood, even by those of us that understand time itself. But either way, whatever it was, it has been changed beyond all recognition. To my knowledge, there were no gnomes on the Timeless Isle. Their culture had never had such things involved with them.

Velameestra Windrunner says: They didn’t even exist in ours.

Soridormi says: I believe the linear time in your timeline was far before the rise of many of your civilizations.

Velameestra Windrunner says: You were here when Jaina and Korialstrasz came through, yes?

Soridormi says: I was. I spoke with them. They arrived around the same time as the establishment of Mechagon, when the first refugees from Rustbolt began to flee, but much further after my arrival. I don’t know how they left, but I believe they found a way. I must wonder, in these quiet times, scanning the horizon for signs of my beloved… if whatever answers they found… this Thaxdormu. The person responsible for this. He must have a way to leave this place. I have to wonder if they found it. But we’ve been thusfar unable to do so. If there is a way, it is undoubtedly deep in the city of Mechagon, or in the complex where that city was constructed. Even with all of our powers… though many of them are muted, we dare not assault such a city. I do not know what would occur if we fell in this place. The preservation of our oath, of our livelihood, must come first, for if we fall here, I do not know if that would ripple through the time ways. But if you are seeking to follow the path of Jaina and Korialstrasz, then we will do what we can to help you. If there is a way to break this spell and we can return to our duties, we can prevent the collapse of… much more than just one timeline.

Velameestra Windrunner says: …And if ours diverged too far, what happens to it?

Soridormi took a deep breath.

Soridormi says: Should a timeline diverge overmuch, it is subject to… to something we prefer to as the burning theoretical phenomenon. It is a circumstance we do not even have full control over. The reason we preserve the timeways and shepherd them together is to prevent those tragedies from unfolding. Without the other timeways to support them, a single deviated timeline will be alone. It will have nothing to prevent it… nothing to prove its existence. And in time, it will collapse. It will end. Like a stream that leaves its river only to become a stagnant pool, eventually it will dry up. I do not want that to happen. But I fear… we cannot know until we escape this place and we can lay eyes on the timeways and see what repair work we can do.

It’s obvious that Soridormi is masking a great deal of fear, as she was unsure how bad it had gotten while their flight was gone.

Velameestra Windrunner says: …I see.

One of the small rodent-like creatures had approached and sat next to Seria with a quiet greeting.

Soridormi says: Right now, as we’ve explained, the caverns of time here are our attempt at building a bridge between where we are and Azeroth. We have another place like this, we thought we could build a connection with it using sympathetic magics, and we could potentially break whatever hold this Thaxdormu has. But right now, Nozdormu is… he is flying in this place. Though it may be a facsimile of our caverns, it acts as a powerful foci of strength and connection to the timeways. He’s hoping to find a hole, an answer, something. He’s been gone for a long while, but if I know him, he’ll be back when it’s time. And before any of you ask, I cannot tell you…

She looked at the ones she did recognize.

Soridormi says: ...of the ways your lives unfold. Doing so is terribly dangerous.

Thal’ena deflated, as she may have been thinking about such a thing.

Soridormi says: It’s damaging to the timeways. It’s why we abstain from doing so. There is yet another term we use for this. We call it the butterfly effect. That one small action, even so much as a single butterfly in the past, may have devastating ramifications in the future. It seems many more than a single butterfly was influenced in your timeline.

She then looked at Gil.

Soridormi says: Speaking of which, the sooner we can get out of here, the better. I have reason to believe the same phenomenon that traps us here may be extended to the demon soul. I do not know what it’s sequestration will do to the fabric of time. Now I don’t wish to make you panic. Time flows in a strange way here…

Another creature had settled next to Soridormi, who was now petting it absentmindedly.

Anachronos says: I know this is likely a lot for all of your to process. That’s normal. If you have any further questions, feel free to seek me out here in the caverns or wherever else I may haunt. But either way, I want you to understand one thing. Regardless of what happens here, regardless of how much our timeline has deviated from the norm, I have no intention of letting you stay here. We will all get out. I’ve had to watch enough friends be trapped for a lifetime, I think. We’ll figure this out. And we’ll get you back home. But! I can return you back to the main cavern. If you want to enjoy the amenities a bit longer, feel free.

Soridormi had started to pet a second creature, as another one had approached.

Motah Tallhorn says: Uh. I have one more question.

Soridormi says: Of course.

Motah Tallhorn says: What are these creatures?

He was also petting a creature, and Soridormi appeared to melt.

Soridormi says: These are called snooters! They are one of the beings indigenous to this land. Despite the damage Mechagon has done, there is still wildlife that clung to the outskirts. These little guys didn’t have anywhere to stay though, so I thought I’d give them a nice little home.

Soridormi informed the group that her sanctum was open to them if they needed to speak with her or even just needed a place to escape. Gil took the opportunity to briefly inform Soridormi and Anachronos of events that she had missed at the Wyrmrest Accord and the rest of the group was transferred back to the Caverns of Time.

Liiraluma says: This is profoundly fucked up, I sort of love it.

Vel had a very far-away look.

Elissa Cross says: I’m not sure I kept up with all of that.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I wish I didn’t keep up with all of that.

Elissa Cross says: Vel you’re so smart!

Uther Menethil says: I don’t understand timelines or timeways or canon events… but I do understand that, right over there, are people that need help, and somewhere down there is a tyrant that needs deposing. Both of those things are in my skillset. I could use the distraction.

Velameestra Windrunner says: We could go speak with Miss Steelspark. Just get all the talking out of the way while we get our bearings.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Not a bad plan.

The young whelp that Vel had spoken to waved at her, and she waved back at the young whelp. They made their way back to Rustbolt, and they were led to the workshop that Kelsey had said to meet her at. The first thing that they saw was a huge hangar bay of tools and supplies, and there appeared to be a gigantic mechanical scorpion of some kind. It only had one pincer, which was not fully connected. Over on the side was also a massive drill that was built out of steel and metal. The entire thing was very much work in progress, but it appeared to be some sort of massive vehicle.

Kelsey was nearby flipping a knife as she sat on a small steel crate, along with another gnome who was underneath one of the sections of the vehicle. Kelsey glimpsed the group as they entered, and she said something to the other gnome before gesturing for the group to come over.

Teemo was starry eyed as she looked around, as was Liiraluma.

Kelsey hopped off the create.

Kelsey Steelspark says: How’d your guys’ talk with the dragons go?

Uther Menethil says: Confusing.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Overwhelming.

Liiraluma says: Amazing!

Kelsey Steelspark says: Sounds about right! Ini, come over here.

Ini Stormcoil says: One more second, sugar.

There was the sound of a tool whirring, and then the other gnome slid out from under the vehicle, and two jet boosters on her shoulders helped her stand up. Four small wheels went back into the armored backpack she was wearing. She had some grease on her cheek, but she had impeccable red hair with bright red lipstick and mechanical eyes that resembled goggles.

Ini Stormcoil says: Oh you must be the honeys that Kelsey was talking about! Tink Master Ini Stormcoil at your service, but you can just call me Ini, sugar!

Liiraluma says: Good to meet you.

Uther Menethil says: Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss Ini.

Ini Stormcoil says: Pleasure is all mine! Especially for someone like you!

She walked over to examine Liiraluma’s arm and they made a brief amount of of tech talk, which gave Luma the chance to show off their fake horn that was also a spanner. Teemo asked what they were making, and Ini explained that it was something they were cooking up to take the fight to King Mechagon.

Ini Stormcoil says: I’ve got big dreams for her! We’ll see how Mechagon feels when we punch a hole through their front gate! Ain’t ever seen anyone like you before.

Teemo Manabrake says: Teemo Manabrake at your service!

Ini Stormcoil says: Pleasure to meet you, Miss Manabrake! And you?

She looked at Luma.

Liiraluma says: Luma.

Ini Stormcoil says: Pleasure as well! I read the dossiers about all you, and I think we’re going to get along swimmingly. Kelsey said you guys were looking to make contact with our friend on the inside.

Velameestra Windrunner says: That’s correct.

Ini Stormcoil says: Well, if you’ve got Miss Steelspark’s trust, I’ve got nothing to worry about.

She smiled and headed over to a small device with a few buttons and a horn on it.She pressed a button and an alert bell rang out through the workshop. She spoke into the horn.

Ini Stormcoil says [gnim]: Alright, you beautiful people. You’ve all done great work. Call it an early evening!

All the other gnomes in the workshop cheer, and before long, the workshop was abandoned.

Kelsey Steelspark says: For the time being, it serves to keep communications quiet. It wouldn’t do for the identity of our inside man to reach the wrong ears.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Absolutely.

Kelsey Steelspark says: Can I count on all you to keep a little secret then?

They agree, and Kelsey and Ini exchange a nod as they shift a crate aside and type passcodes into two different keyboards at the same time. A device opened, revealing a cog-like disk. They typed something into the device, and then it started to beep.

Ini Stormcoil says: Now we wait. Shouldn’t be too long.

After a few minutes, there were two rapid beeps.

Static Voice says: This is Mother Hen from the nest. Answering the call. How are the little chicks doing?

Ini Stormcoil says: This is Storm Phoenix coming in. I’ve got a couple newcomers that I think the Mother Hen might be thrilled to meet.

An illusory image of another gnome appeared above the disk. They were covered in a bit of a cowl, but there were two bright eyes in the shadow of the cowl. His ears and jaw were replaced with mechanical attachments.

Cowled Gnome says: You aren’t calling during normal checkup times, Stormcoil. What am I looking at?

Ini Stormcoil says: I’m glad you asked! These are some newcomers from the outskirts of Rustbolt. They want a way out, and they may be interested in helping the resistance.

Cowled Gnome says: Is that right?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Correct.

Cowled Gnome says: I presume you’re not here of your own free will?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Certainly not.

Cowled Gnome says: Trapped here like the dragons?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Correct.

Cowled Gnome says: Hm. Steelspark?

Kelsey Steelspark says: Sending the dossiers now.

Cowled Gnome says: Thanks.

His eyes flicker as if he’s reading dossiers in his mechanical eyes.

Cowled Gnome says: So you’re from the promised land?

Velameestra Windrunner says: As it’s called.

Cowled Gnome says: Azeroth. We heard a lot of stories. Alright. Everything seems to check out. No reason to suspect any of you would want to continue tolerating Mechagon’s regime, and it seems most of you avoided mechanization, except from you. Liiraluma. But that seems incongruous from anything from Mechagon.

Liiraluma says: Seeing I made it all myself, everything is accounted for.

Cowled Gnome says: Another gearhead?

Liiraluma says: Right.

Cowled Gnome says: Manabrake, you’re a goblin?

Teemo Manabrake says: Right! Also a gearhead.

Cowled Gnome says: Good. The more people that know how mech operates, the better. Stormcoil, give them a lowdown on how gnomish tech works. We need them able to take apart anything that my father can send towards them.

Ini Stormcoil says: Of course sugar, you don’t gotta worry about that.

The gnome sighed.

Cowled Gnome says: Don’t use that nickname.

Ini Stormcoil says: I’m sorry, su– I mean. Would you prefer Mother Hen?

The man’s glowing stare pierces Ini.

Ini Stormcoil says: I’ll stop twisting your arm.

Cowled Gnome says: I’m compiling more reports. Should be able to send them once things cool down. I think your arrival scared the man. He’s sending more patrols. Unfortunately, the trick from the dragons couldn’t wipe the visual scanners. I suspect he’s looking for. If you head towards Mechagon, be careful, and don’t go alone.

Liiraluma says: Noted.

Cowled Gnome says: I have to go. I’ll be back in contact soon. Steelspark, get them up to speed on everything. Tell them about our leads, and our allies.

Kelsey Steelspark says: As you command, your highness.

Cowled Gnome says: Admin Out.

Kelsey looked to the group.

Kelsey Steelspark says: Well. Looks like you’ve got full clearance for me to catch you up. That was Erazmin. Prince Erazmin. The only son of king Arcturus.

Liiraluma says: I’m sure that’ll go over great.

Kelsey Steelspark says: Now you understand! If his father were to find out he was coordinating the resistance, well. Publicly, his role is known as Admin. There’s a hefty bounty for Admin, but the king has no idea his own flesh and blood is the one responsible. If he was, there wouldn’t be much flesh remaining.

A projection appeared from her google and showed a map of the island itself.

Kelsey Steelspark says: This here is where we are. Mechagon is built under most of the island, but the main workshops and scrapyards are located towards the center. A bunch of old ruins there were retrofitted into a hangar for their hunter killers, and asn ingress. There are other entrances around, but that one is the most guarded, and the most dangerous. It doubles as a prison ward. Or rather as a waiting room for individuals awaiting processing. That’s where they take anyone they catch, and likely where they would have taken you if they didn’t vaporize you. While I’m not sure allies are the right word for it…

She gestured to the south section of the map.

Kelsey Steelspark says: There are some old ruins in the junkyards south of here. This is what most of us refer to as the Poxlands. This where the concentration of leper gnomes is at its highest, and where the so-called king Silco makes his domain. Now, we don’t see eye to eye with them. They are aggressive to us too. But Silco has a history with Arcturus and Gelbin. It’s a bit of a long shot, but if we can get him to turn his animosity towards Mechagon, it’s one more thing for him to worry about. I don’t know if they’re willing to ally with us, but a cease fire is better than nothing. They want nothing more than the complete spread of the gift of flesh. Even if it kills them. Even so, if there’s any leverage we can get to point their eyes elsewhere, we’ll be better for it. We’ve sent envoys ourselves, but not much has come from it. But you, well, you’re outsiders. And you’re flesh and blood. Well. Most of you.

She winked at Liiraluma.

Liiraluma says: I can take it off.

Kelsey Steelspark says: It’s likely that they will become aware of your own presence all the same. If you can get yourselves an audience with Thermaplugg, it’s a heavy risk, but it could be worth the results. I’ll leave that up to your discretion.

She then gestured to the rest of hte island.

Kelsey Steelspark says: The rest of the island is in ruins. Not much to speak of, except for the northern reaches.

She gestured to a line up along the north side.

Kelsey Steelspark says: This is the Ordon Sanctuary.

Vaelastrasz says: I believe I flew over that. There were strange tauren-like creatures there. They tried to fire at me, but they weren’t able to hit anything substantial.

Kelsey Steelspark says: You should count yourself lucky. It’s the home to a clan of beings calls the Yaungol. Clan Ordon is a violent and dangerous group of fire worshippers that have been here for as long as our history goes back. They’re marauders, raiders, and warriors. Keen to burn flesh and melt scrap metal. They’ve thrived in these wastes, turning the mechanized machines of Mechagon into… sport. They break the machines and wear them as trophies. Contact has generally devolved into violence. BUt you all look like you can handle yourselves in a scrap. And perhaps they’ll listen to you. If you can impress them with a nice show of strength, perhaps you can show them in the right direction as well. They won’t make peace with us, but if we can offer them better trophies, maybe they’ll be ready to listen. They have a god of some kind. Their leader, a towering example, a man named Ordos the Burning One. Don’t know much about it, but if you try to meet with them, get ready for a fight. Probably more than one. Their flavor of diplomacy is a bit spicier than we’re used to. Elgin and many others here are aware of the resistance. I think Gelbin is too. But I think the old man is too afraid tor isk more lives. I love my mechanization as much as the next person. Even have done more upgrades. But they have been through my own choice. Arcturus deserves to be put down. I know you’re only helping so you can get out, but if you pull this off, you’ll have friends among this. That may not mean much seeing we apparently don’t even exist to your knowledge, but if you can find a way out, maybe some of us will too. So that’s the 411. Any questions?

Velameestra Windrunner says: From the sounds of it, the goal is to create a situation where we have an advantage in a siege, yes?

Kelsey Steelspark says: Exactly. If we can get them both, in conjunction with us, we’ll have plenty of opportunity to assassinate the king, shut down Mimir, and put an end to the regime. And hopefully we’ll find a way off this island in the process. We have friends on the inside, and others that will be sympathetic. We can talk about that more when it’s time to infiltrate. In the meantime, we’ll be building as many weapons we can to outfit anyone that can hold a weapon. We’ll need as much as we can, and we’ll continue smuggling people out. Eventually we’ll breach the topic with Gelbin. Once we’re ready, then we’ll make plans for the assault. No rush. Feel free to rest up and take your time. Like Admin said, Mechagon will be looking for you. They’re always on the lookout for the Rustbolt. Be smart when you leave, and hopefully as long as you don’t get too close to the ingress, you’ll be alright. Not even Mechagon’s goons are enough to hold off the Yongol. If all goes well, well, we might be able to prepare for an assault in the next few cycles.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I guess it’s more a matter of who we want to approach first.

Vel glanced at Uther.

Uther Menethil says: Well. Considering we ran into these pox gnomes first, it seems as good a place to start as any.

Velameestra Windrunner says: How contagious are they?

Kelsey Steelspark says: That is a concern, especially when entering the lands. Fortunately, we have inoculations. They don’t last forever, but they should last long enough. From what we’ve been able to determine from the contaminated, exposure is not immediate. There is an incubation period before the worst of the symptoms unfold. It’s not comfortable, but we have ways to purify you before the severe and permanent damage is done. But after a certain point, the best mercy we can give is death.

Liiraluma says: Have you ever seen it affect technology?

Kelsey Steelspark says: That’s the funny thing. See, they will claim their pox can reverse the mechanization, but none of us have seen it. We’ve seen it affect mechanized gnomes, but they’re more inclined to carve the mechanization out. If it can affect tech, there aren’t examples.

Riff says: Can… I come when you go there? To see these poxed gnomes. The afflicted.

Uther Menethil says: I think you might be asking the wrong person. Because you are always welcome to come with me.

He looked up at Seria.

Riff says: There’s… there’s… something about them. I sensed it when we first saw them when we came to this island. It’s hard to explain. How did you all feel when you first saw them?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Not different than normal… though admittedly my tolerance for such things has increased significantly.

Riff says: I felt a connection with them?

Vel knew Hakkar was a god associated with blood and disease. She had heard some stories of the fact his blood had caused outbreaks of deadly plague before, which had killed a lot of people. Likewise, during their brief stint in the Shadowlands, there were a group of people there that appeared to be similarly poxed.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Like a kinship almost?

Riff says: I don’t think I need to fear them. I think during the fight none of them even looked at me.

Velameestra Windrunner says: You… may have unexpected insights.

Vel also glanced at Seria, who gave the all-clear.

Riff says: Thanks mama. I think I can help somehow. I don’t know about the fire guys though. I can probably help with them, but just through beating them up. But if they need a show of strength, we can give them the Death Adders!

Uther threw out the sign.

Velameestra Windrunner says: In that case, I suppose \we can make preparations to head toward this king Silco. Likely once we get acclimated and our bearings back.

Kelsey Steelspark says: Do any of you have medical training, by chance?

Velameestra Windrunner says: I do.

Kelsey Steelspark says: Perfect. Think you can find an artery?

Velameestra Windrunner says: …Better than most.

Kelsey Steelspark says: I’ll get a few syringes from the doctors with the inoculation. It should be enough to last you as long as you inject it when you get to the outskirts. I’ll see if I can get a few extras just in case.

Velameestra Windrunner says: The… makeup of these inoculations… are they blessed, by chance?

Kelsey cocked her head to the side.

Kelsey Steelspark says: They’re fabricated by our medic variety and the first responders.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Is it of the same variety as the sprayers when we first arrived?

Kelsey Steelspark says: They are, yes.

Velameestra Windrunner says: …Noted.

Kelsey blinked as she looked down through Vel’s dossier and then saw the note Elgin had added to it.

Kelsey Steelspark says: Ah. Hm.

Velameestra Windrunner says: If that’s the only option, I’ll deal with it.

Kelsey Steelspark says: We can always look into alternatives. Either way, I’m looking forward to working with all of you.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Indeed.

Kelsey Steelspark says: I have reason to believe some room in a new prefab shelter should be enough for you. There’s a good handful, but should–

Velameestra Windrunner says: That won’t be necessary.

Kelsey Steelspark says: Oh! Do you have some mechanism that would help you with lodgings?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. No need for us to take up your rooms.

Kelsey Steelspark says: You’re all just full of surprises, aren’t you? Well in that case, I’ll leave you to it. I imagine you’ll want to get some rest after everything.

The group was given free reign of Rustbolt. Vel managed to find a secluded place where she could open the mansion for the group. As the doorway was conjured, she expressed she wanted to apologize for the first-impression she made, as it did not have the tact nor decorum she would have preferred given the stressors at work.

Samia said that if Vel was worried about her, she didn’t need to think anything of it, as she was ultimately entirely justified. Thal’ena cocked her hip to one side and commented that the scene that Vel made was ultimately pretty tame considering the scenes she herself had caused in the past. Gil did agree that Thal’ena tried to incinerate an orc, and Thal’ena retorted that he didn’t need to bring that up right now. However, Thal’ena said she wanted to rip out her hair and scream too because something about the Timeless Isle just made her think it was going to be terrible for her complexion.

They all agreed they were all going to figure things out.

As the group was getting their bearings, Uther and Vel had their attention drawn to something out of the corner of their mind that was weirdly familiar. They saw a gnome that was wearing a violet-blue cloak and holding a short staff that had some metal twists and turns to it. There was a blue crystal held aloft in the center of it.

She had some mechanization on the hand that was holding the staff, and she had pink pig tails as she bounded around. There were light sources about, and with a flick of her wrist, she cast continual flame on one of them. There were a few young gnomes that were chatting with her, and asking if she could summon the water again. She agreed that she would as long as they ate their vegetables.

She summoned a water elemental and the kids started to play with the water elemental like they were children around a sprinkler. She continued about her business, and she said hi to everyone on the street, but there was something profoundly familiar in the way she dressed, acted, and spoke, that keenly resembled Jaina.

Vel and Uther exchange a look.

Velameestra Windrunner says: We could just go ask her.

Uther Menethil says: Yes. I suppose we could. Didn’t expect to feel homesick in a place outside of time.

Velameestra Windrunner says: That’s the perfect place to feel homesick.

Uther Menethil says: Well. Lets go.

The duo approached, and the gnome stopped and turned to them.

Gnome Mage says: Oh! You must be the newcomers that recently arrived! Nice to meet you! Kinndy Sparkshine!

Uther Menethil says: Uther Menethil. At your service.

Kinndy blinked.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: Wait. Menethil?

Uther nodded.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: did you know a Jaina by chance?

Uther Menethil says: Very well. That’s my mother.

Kinndy covered her mouth.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: By the Makers… You’re Jaina’s son?

Uther Menethil says: Indeed I am.

Kinndy audibly squealed.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: I haven’t seen her in so long! Not since she left! Have you seen her? Before you ended up here, that is.

Uther Menethil says: Not for… much longer than I’d like. It was funny… my mother is a very capable woman. If there is something to be her end, I don’t think it’s here. Not in this place.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: I think you’re right. Master Jaina taught me almost everything I know! I was very young when she was here. She was a much better teacher than Master Manastorm, but that’s a pretty low bar.

Uther Menethil says: If you don’t mind me saying so, I think she’d be very proud.

Tears began to well in her eyes.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: Do you really think so?

Uther’s eyes also looked a tad damp.

Uther Menethil says: I do.

Kinndy walked over to Uther and hugged him.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: Thank you! That’s so nice! And it means so much from you!

Uther Menethil says: I’d like to thank you as well. Your water elemental… there was a lot about you that reminded me of her, but seeing that elemental… if you had told me it was her’s, I would have believed you.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: She sure did teach me a lot of her favorite tricks!

She looked around.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: I know things look bleak here, but I’m going to do everything I can to make people smile. When the time comes, I’ll be there to help. I’m not nearly the mage she was, but if there’s anything my magic can do, well, I’m going to do it. There’s no way I’m going to let you stay stuck in here! Or any of you! And, on a personal note, I wouldn’t mind seeing Jaina again someday.

Uther Menethil says: I’ll do everything I can to make that happen.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: Well, if there’s anything you need help with concerning magic, just let me know! Um.

She looked at Vel.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: You look like you… probably know most of what I could help with. But if you ever need an extra hand I’d be glad to assist!

Velameestra Windrunner says: Extra hands are always appreciated.

Kinndy smiled.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: What’s your name? Did you know Jaina as well?

Velameestra Windrunner says: I did. Formally here, I’m going by Zelda. My real name is Velameestra.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: That’s such a pretty name. Both of them are, really.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Thank you.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: But if you ever need any help, Zelda, let me know, okay?

Velameestra Windrunner says: I wouldn’t mind getting to know your magical practices here at some point.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: Of course! I’ve learned from a handful of minds, some more eccentric than others, but I’d love to share what I know.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Exchanging notes is always an enlightening experience.

Kinndy Sparkshine says: Agreed!

Kinndy bid her farewells for the time being. As she walked away with a wave, Vel and Uther reflected for a moment.

Uther Menethil says: Funny… we’re potentially several alternate planes of existence away. But when something like that happens, it feels like my mother is close. It feels like our paths aren’t so far away.

Velameestra Windrunner says: A feat in itself given she went back in time to help win a war.

Uther Menethil says: Well. Hmph. No sense dwelling on it now. Are we done?

Vel looked at him for a long moment.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Uther… are you… alright?

Uther sighed.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Like… legitimately. I’m not asking for one of your deflective answers.

Uther Menethil says: Well… Vel, I’m outside of time, my homeland has been taken over by a fascist version of what might be leading all of our people… and I don’t know what to do but keep stepping forward.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Uther… what… do you need from me right now?

Uther Menethil says: promise me you won’t laugh.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I won’t.

Uther turned and looked at the elf.

Uther Menethil says: Will you tell me I’m doing a good job?

Vel blinked.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Uther, you’re doing a wonderful job.

Uther closed his eyes and smiled.

Uther Menethil says: It’s so good to hear you say that.

Velameestra Windrunner says: If you need me to reiterate that more, I can. I understand I’m not great at vocalizing such things, normally. As a matter of fact I can list of a series of your accomplishments recently if that would help?

Uther chuckled.

Uther Menethil says: We can’t afford me getting an ego, but I do appreciate it.

Vel rubbed her hand on his back for a moment before they continued to walk.

Time-Lost Day 1 - Time-Lost Day 3

Seria had come to settle in the druid grove at the top of the conjured manor, and while he was touring the area, Motah had wandered in. He waved at her, and lumbered over to her.

Motah Tallhorn says: Hello. Um. Was I interrupting you? I didn’t mean to if you were meditating or something.

Seria shook her head and Motah smiled.

Motah Tallhorn says: I saw you fight when we were attacked earlier. Are… are you a druid?

Seria says: I am.

Motah Tallhorn says: Wow. That’s very impressive. I have some training, but I’m not very good. When I was young, I woke up in the great plains, the Emerald Dream. I got lost. That was where I ran into a friend of mine, and he introduced me to his uncle who was a druid. They tried to teach me, but I wasn’t very good at it. But I do know a few things. I can’t turn into a beast like you though. You must be very strong.

Seria seemed to be quite taken aback by the compliments.

Motah Tallhorn says: You’re one of Gil’s friends too, right? I’m not very good at talking with people. But… if there’s anything you ever need, just let me know, okay? Or if you’re ever hungry. I’d be happy to make you something. I’ve tried a lot of things. Maybe I can make a dish that reminds you of home, if you want.

Seria says: Thanks. I appreciate that.

Motah smiled again.

Motah Tallhorn says: I’m not great at making friends, but… Guff always says the best way to make friends is to try and talk to people, so I hope we can be friends. If you want. Where did you learn to become so strong?

Seria says: My mother and my godmother.

Motah Tallhorn says: Wow. They sound like amazing people.

Seria says: Yeah. My mother was.

Motah Tallhorn says: Oh. I’m sorry.

Seria says: It’s okay. She’s at peace.

Motah nodded.

Motah Tallhorn says: That’s good. The Earthmother… I’m sure that she’s watching over her too. Plus your own ancestors and everything.

Seria nodded.

Motah Tallhorn says: Did you need any help with anything you were doing?

Seria says: Just tending to the plants.

Motah Tallhorn says: I have a collection of flowers if you wanted to see them. I try to collect some wherever I go, so I can remember the beauty we find everywhere. There aren’t many flowers here, but I’m hoping to find one all the same.

Seria nodded, eager to see them.

Motah Tallhorn says: I’ll be right back!

He went to retrieve the collection, which was a leatherbound journal with flowers that were preserved from all over. He sat down next to her and pointed out the various types and where he found them. There were flowers from all over the various continents, and it seemed they were preserved with magic so they could later be planted in one place.

Seria says: That’s a wonderful idea. There’s nothing like that.

Motah Tallhorn says: Thanks. Do you want to see it? It won’t be for a long time, but I’d love to show it to you, if you wanted.

Seria says: Yeah. It’d be nice.

Motah smiled.

Motah Tallhorn says: Okay. Thank you for the inspiration! I never knew if it was a good idea before, but now that I know that someone is looking forward to it, I’ll make sure it’s twice as good. If you need anything, let me know. I may not be as good at druid magic as you are, but I’m good at moving things! If you need me to move things… well, I guess you can turn into a bear and move it yourself. But if you need an extra hand, let me know!

Seria says: I will.

Motah Tallhorn says: I’m glad. I think I’m going to find the kitchen. I know the servants here can make things themselves… but I want to make something myself. Or maybe help them! I’m going to offer them anyway.

Sometime after everyone had been given their rooms, Vel was in the study of the manor working on putting some of her notes in order and she hold Thal’ena walking down the hall calling for Teemo and asking for her to smell her hair because it smelled so good after she was able to bathe it.

However, she was startled as she walked into the study and saw Vel there instead.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Oh! Sorry Vel.

She was in a silken bathrobe, and her hair was shiny and left loose so that it could dry. Vel raised an eyebrow at her.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I trust your accommodations were to your liking?

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Oh, it was absolutely divine! I don’t remember the last time I’ve had an actual bath. I mean, I’ve been able to relax in a spring or a river, but we’ve hadn’t been able to go to a proper bath in a while.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I imagine being on the run puts a damper on that.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: You’re telling me!

She plopped down on one of the sofas, and Arkha’din immediately slithered over to investigate as he sensed magic on her.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Hello there. Is this your little friend?

Velameestra Windrunner says: His name is Arkha’din.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Well hello Arkha’din.

She scritched him him under the chin and she asked Vel if she was the one that had contacted her the prior year. Vel confirmed, and Thal’ena thanked her for looking out for her even though they had never really gotten the chance to meet before.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Um… crazy question, I know, but have you happened to hear anything about my mother lately? Lana’thel? General Lana’thel?

Velameestra Windrunner says: …Yes.

She closed the notebook she had been working in as she considered her next words.

Velameestra Windrunner says: She’s in Northrend, right now.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I heard… not a lot about her.

Velameestra Windrunner says: You want to know what she’s been up to?

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: If it’s not too much trouble. We’ve never really… we fought all the time, but with daddy gone…

Behind her lips, Vel’s tongue played with the tip of one of her fangs.

Velameestra Windrunner says: What was the last thing you heard about her?

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I heard she was at the battle of Quel’Danas and that she didn’t survive… but then I heard she was still around. I don’t really know what’s going on. I sorta prepared myself for the worst but… I don’t know.

Velameestra Windrunner says: There’s a contingent of our people in Northrend looking for… alternatives following the destruction of the Sunwell. She’s leading the military.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: So she’s alive?

Velameestra Windrunner says: She… isn’t dead, but to call her alive would be the same as calling me alive.

Thal’ena blinked.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Right… Belore, with everything that happened, I forgot about all that… so that was real. The eyes… you’re an actual vampyr?

Velameestra Windrunner says: I am. Your mother is not. There are… a number of different undead amongst our people.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Oh… are... Are you alright? I mean I don’t really understand everything, but you…?

Velameestra Windrunner says: If you’re asking if I need anything, no. I’ve adapted. It’s not a new experience anymore. A part of… admittedly I do not know many specifics. My simulacrum has likely interacted with your mother far more than I have.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Your simulacrum?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, I have a copy in Northrend, and another with Magistrix Goldensword’s reliquary.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Wow. You’re no joke. I’ve heard of powerful magisters being able to make copies of themselves, but the fact you can is really amazing… but then, the fact you’re able to make this wonderful, luxury condo that’s probably nothing for you!

Velameestra Windrunner says: Well. Thank you, but it’s a very recent development, admittedly.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Thank you for telling me. I don’t know how I’m supposed to feel about that? I mean, I’m not even supposed to worry about specifically our people anymore, but I’m still getting used to this whole dragonsworn thing.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I understand a lot of change has happened. But if you had any specific questions, I can do what I can to answer them. But I only formally spoke with General Duskseeker once, technically.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Duskseeker?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, she… changed her name.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Oh.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Which is a trend amongst our people following tragedy… um… once things are resolved, you can likely speak with your mother yourself?

Thal’ena nodded.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I might take you up on that… but I’ll need to think about it. I don’t even know what I’d say to her… but thanks.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Of course. Though… can I ask you a question?

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Yeah, sure!

Velameestra Windrunner says: You retrieved Quel’delar?

A unique expression crossed over Thal’ena’s face, and she offered a small scoff.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I guess you can say that. Um… do you know who had it before?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Arthak Saurfang.

Thal’ena nodded, and she chewed on her lip.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: We went to a place called the Broken Isles. We were looking for Krasus and Jaina and it was where they were supposed to be. We ended up at this blue dragon holdout and we ran into Arthak and the Horde there. I sorta lost my cool and attacked him. And he gave me the sword back.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Just like that? He just gave it back?

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Yeah, he just handed it right over. Told me that I deserved my vengeance but if I tried it there he would have to kill me. Then he had the gall of coming back to me later and offered to train me!

Velameestra Windrunner says: …What?

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Yeah! He was all like ‘and if you really want your vengeance I know how to fight myself more than anyone else so I’ll train you’.

Vel scoffed.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Well. That’s a bit of a smack in the face.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Yeah! Didn’t help that no one else was on my side except for Vaelastrasz.

Velameestra Windrunner says: No one?

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I mean… everyone else… they weren’t… Teemo tried to help, but we could have killed him right there! He wasn’t alone. People could have gotten hurt. It wasn’t a good idea, but I shouldn’t feel like I was in the wrong there!

Velameestra Windrunner says: I don’t think you were.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Thank you.

Velameestra Windrunner says: And I understand the frustration of feeling powerless in a situation.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I would have done *anything* to wipe that smug look off his face. I know it won’t bring daddy back, but it would at least make me feel better.

Velameestra Windrunner says: It would be justice. In a sense.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Gil says it’s not and it’s not we’re supposed to do as red dragonsworn. It’s not our responsibility to take life, it’s to nurture it. Even people like him. It’s really easy to say that when you aren’t looking at the person that killed your father.

Velameestra Windrunner says: …Yeah.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be dumping all this on you.

Velameestra Windrunner says: No, it’s fine. If you need someone to vent to… I get it. And there are many amongst our people that would agree with you.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: Yeah, I had a feeling.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Including your mother.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: The fact that mother and I agree on something for once is actually a miracle in itself.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Maybe you can come to an understanding. But. If you have any questions, concerns, anything, know that I’m around.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: I feel like I want to know more about your whole vampyr business. Like the only thing I know is what you read in the shitty bodice rippers or something.

Vel offered an exasperated chuff.

Thal'ena Dawnseeker says: You probably get that a lot, don’t you?

Velameestra Windrunner says: The folktales are equal parts… overblown and accurate in different facets. But for what it’s worth I’m not going to be stalking you in your bedroom.

Thal’ena laughed and they spent some time talking and Thal’ena expressed when she was a young girl she was obsessed with those stories and claimed she wanted to be a vampyr when she grew up.

Luma had cobbled together a stool and spent an earnest day or two simply watching people in Rustbolt. Eventually, they rolled down to the cavern of time and opted to gaze into some of the starfields that were unveiled throughout the caverns. They watched in silent reflection.

Teemo Manabrake says: Penny for your thoughts?

Teemo flicked a copper piece in their direction as they approached. Luma instinctively snatched it out of the air. Teemo grinned.

Liiraluma says: Two questions. One, why would this be for my thoughts? I haven’t installed any coin slots. And what happens if I flipped this into their?

Teemo Manabrake says: One way to find out.

The coin drifted off into space as they flicked it into the cosmos.

Liiraluma says: Ah. That’s exactly what it would do.

They watched the coin for a long moment as it disappeared.

Liiraluma says: I should perhaps reiterate what penny for your thoughts means?

Teemo Manabrake says: It’s an old goblin saying. My people are pretty transactional. There was an old trade prince named Pennicillan. They called her Penny. She overhauled the infrastructure and made some strides in the medical field. She’s been dead for a long time, but they put her face on copper coins sometimes. We call the pennies. It’s just another way to ask what’s on your mind.

Liiraluma says: It’s a little hard to say. There’s always… something. I will not bore you with details, but my people were divided a long time ago. They traveled across the Great Dark Beyond. I was born in a room like this. I went to bed looking at the stars. For eight thousand years or so… I lost count. I have a timer set for nine thousand. Until they, I’m eight thousand.

Teemo Manabrake says: Wow. That’s really long. But I guess not for your people.

Liiraluma says: It is and it isn’t. I’ve never come in contact with this many short lived people, but then, there are others that live longer than we do. The Great Dark Beyond was hundreds and thousands of miles wide between one thing and another, and it was empty. It gets boring. You’re on a ship with the same people. I suppose I didn’t realize I would miss it until it was gone, but I also… eight thousand years is a long time to waste bitching about something different. That’s all. I don’t think my life has been a waste, but faced with great and infinite circumstances like floating forever…

They gestured to where the penny disappeared.

Liiraluma says: Or time. It’s comforting as much as it’s quieting. And it’s lonely.

Teemo Manabrake says: That makes sense.

Liiraluma says: Eh!

Luma waved it off.

Liiraluma says: I would say it’s nothing, but this is day three, so it’s something.

Teemo Manabrake says: It’s funny how the things you never want to see again are the things you want the most. I got into some trouble back home. Never thought I wanted to go back, but I still miss my own garage. I know it’s a bit different.

Liiraluma says: Eh. We had those too.

Teemo Manabrake says: I think if you feel stuck, you just need to get some inspiration. Keep looking out. But I don’t know if you’re going to find it just by looking.

Luma leaned back and their tail swished.

Liiraluma says: I… perhaps not. There hasn’t been much time since we left Kalimdor.

Teemo shrugged.

Teemo Manabrake says: No time like the present.

She grabbed a small box that was painted bright colors. A small crate appeared next to her and she knocked it open.

Teemo Manabrake says: Give me a few minutes.

As Luma watched, a bunch of parts tumbled out of the crate, and Teemo proceeded to assemble something. When she was done, she stepped back. Luma saw a long, narrow vehicle that was bright blue and pink.

Teemo Manabrake says: We can go for a ride. No sense sitting around.

Liiraluma says: I’m moving! Very slowly.

They laughed.

Liiraluma says: But why not.

Teemo Manabrake says: She’s an X-45 Heartbreaker. Some call them Lovemakers, but that’s tacky. Her name is Aphrodite.

Teemo hopped in the seat.

Teemo Manabrake says: What are you waiting for? You can figure it out. Worst case scenario, we crash into an asteroid and float forever.

Liiraluma says: Oh. You want to go out there?

Teemo nodded as she pointed at the expansive space.

Liiraluma says: It’s been a while since I’ve driven.

Teemo Manabrake says: I can show you the ropes.

Liiraluma says: Sure.

Luma popped their head into the open cosmos, and realized they can still breathe. Teemo hopped up front to show Luma the controls, and then they took off into the cosmos and took a few laps.

Teemo Manabrake says: Ready to take a go?

Liiraluma says: Sure.

Luma’s body shimmered, and then they shifted places and Luma wound up in the front with Teemo behind them. Luma took off, and the controls wound up being very intuitive. The machine itself seemed to have solar panels on it, or something similar. There were seat belts and safety equipment, but it could also go pretty fast.

Luma revved the engine, and Teemo latched on around their waist as they headed towards the asteroid belt. They flipped around a rock and then through an asteroid shaped like a ring. The pair of them laughed as they went.

Teemo Manabrake says: How do you feel?

Liiraluma says: Better!

The vehicle slowed.

Liiraluma says: She’s good.

Teemo Manabrake says: Of course she is! I’ll have to introduce the others. I think you’ll really enjoy Charlotte.

Liiraluma says: Truely, what are creations without names?

Teemo Manabrake says: That’s what I say. They all have their own personalities and names. There’s Charlotte, Betsy, Aphrodite… they have their quirks, but once you get to know them, you know how to make them tick. They’re a lot like people. And sometimes you gotta do maintenance on yourself! For some more than others.

Liiraluma says: Uh uh, nope.

Luma sped up again and Teemo laughed.

Liiraluma says: What was that?

Eventually, they parked the vehicle on one of the asteroids, and they laid down on the asteroid as it spun through the belt.

Teemo Manabrake says: That was fun! The moment I saw this place, I knew I had to come check it out. And you were already here.

Liiraluma says: Yeah. Turns out. Well thank you.

Teemo smiled.

Teemo Manabrake says: Thanks for humoring me. Sometimes when you see an opportunity, you can’t let it go by, and I don’t know how long we’ll be in here, but I could get used to this.

Liiraluma says: Well. If you’re around and we make it out of not-time…

Luma explained a bit about the Exodar, and Teemo was immediately enraptured by the explanations and some sparse illusionary outlines.

Teemo Manabrake says: I would love to get my hands on some of this. I can seriously come look at this place someday?

Liiraluma says: I’ve found a disturbing lack of technology on your planet. Then again, I was in Gilneas, and that was metal slug throwing worgen. So that may not be the best judge. But there is a lot of sustainable energy, things from teh future, things built to last… a lot can be built.

Teemo Manabrake says: That’s exactly what I’m saying! A lot of goblins cut corners, and it’s not safe or good for the environment, but with all this… you have to take me someday. I mean, you don’t have to, but I’d really really like it!

Liiraluma says: I’m poor at making friends. It would be bad to not. We’ll go.

Teemo Manabrake says: Well it’s a date!

Liiraluma says: Okay.

Teemo leaned back and then smiled.

Teemo Manabrake says: Be right back.

She clicked her heels, and she took off with small jets on her boots. She swooped around and landed again with a huge grin.

Teemo Manabrake says: You’ll never guess what I found.

She pulled out the penny and flicked it over to Luma. Luma laughed and caught it.

Liiraluma says: Good eye!

Teemo Manabrake says: Had a little help.

She tapped her goggles.

Liiraluma says: Well good. I probably needed this. Why, I don’t feel like talking about yet, but we’ll get there.

Teemo Manabrake says: Then this won’t have to be our last time. Who knows what we’ll find out here.

Liiraluma says: Maybe we’ll find that Aspect.

Teemo Manabrake says: We’ll keep our eyes peeled! But we should get back before they worry.

Liiraluma says: I might camp here one night.

Teemo Manabrake says: Yeah, I might need to join you.

Liiraluma says: Well you’re the one with Aphrodite! I won’t swim through this. That’s how you get lost.

Teemo Manabrake says: Five more minutes!

Liiraluma says: Alright.

It was a series of five more minutes before they finally tore themselves away from the sights.

Sometime after Thal’ena left, Samia made her way into the study. She cleared her throat.

Samia Inkling says: Miss Velameestra.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Miss Inkling.

Samia Inkling says: I hope I’m not interrupting.

Velameestra Windrunner says: No. What can I do for you?

Samia Inkling says: I just thought that we could… talk, for a moment.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Alright.

Vel shifted Arkha’din from where he had curled up in her lap and she leaned forward, her expression largely neutral, though there was a certain air of wariness to it. The mana wyrm opted to wriggle up to the vampyr’s shoulder instead.

Samia Inkling says: I simply thought that it would be good for us to have another check in after everything. I… wanted to apologize. I know that you, likewise, apologized earlier, so I think it’s only fair for me to do the same. We’ve gone through a great deal of stress over the last day or so, and the last thing you needed was to have that exacerbated by my presence as well. I know that neither of us could have changed that, but nonetheless, I understand your frustration and fear. Part of the reason I’m here now is I’m hoping to take the first steps toward dispelling that distress.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Alright.

Samia Inkling says: I’ve been thinking about something you had mentioned earlier… you mentioned the name Onyxia.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes.

Samia Inkling says: And that you believe she is none other than Katrana Prestor, yes?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. I suppose that name may also be familiar?

Samia Inkling says: Yes. I was born in Alterac. I had a talent for magic. Mostly self-taught, but I had crossed paths with Lady Prestor, and she gave me a letter of recommendation after bearing witness to my talents. I had apprehended a thief in the city streets. She had seen me do so. She suggested the Academy of the Arcane Arts and Sciences in Stormwind, so I expatriated, went through the program, passed with flying colors, and found myself a member of this commune of mages. I suppose that Prestor’s involvement in this makes sense given the suspicions Gilveradin has concerning Daval Prestor.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Suspicions that have been confirmed.

Samia Inkling says: Precisely. I suppose it was a truth I had stumbled upon. I opened a private investigation firm in Stormwind. I mostly worked with the guard and independent contractors to analyze crime scenes. That’s why I was surprised at your spellwork. I concocted the same spell… it gave me an edge in the business.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I can see that.

Samia Inkling says: That leads me to the circumstance that I believe you might find interesting. While I was working at Inkling… a member of the Stormwind military approached me. A man named Reginald Windsor. He did so discreetly and independently, and had a matter for me to look into. Once I discerned his identity, I had questions. He paid me not to ask them, but I presume that he had fears that would lead him to not wish to collaborate with SI:7. I had done so in the past. Sometimes they contracted me to aid them in a case or two, but Windsor made it clear he did not want anyone aware of what he was looking into. He… he had reason to believe that there was a conspiracy in Stormwind. And he believed that it… how familiar are you with the Wyrnn family?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Largely by name and reputation, though I have spoken to Anduin and Varian briefly. Obviously given my connection with Uther, diplomatic dealings were not uncommon.

Samia Inkling says: Certainly. That makes sense.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: And we spent some time in Stormwind.

Gil had walked in on the conversation, and had taken a place leaning against the doorway. Samia looked over to him.

Samia Inkling says: Ah. I’m glad you’re here too, Gilveradin. I had not had the the chance to tell you this either. Are you familiar with one Adariall Wrynn?

Gilveradin Windrunner says: By reputation.

Velameestra Windrunner says: The last I heard of Adariall is that his majesty Varian supposedly killed her.

Samia Inkling says: Is that what they’re saying?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Currently.

Samia Inkling says: Then it may be worse than I thought. Adariall Wrynn’s death is one of the greatest cold cases in Stormwind’s history. It occurred about 20 years ago. Some attributed it to the troll wars, others attributed it to happenstance. Chaos. Regardless, information was hard to come about. Her disappearance is a subject of no small amount of speculation, especially amongst the small folk. There was never a body recovered, so the cause of death was unknown. If it was a kidnapping, no ransom appeared. Marshall Windsor believed that there was more to the story. And he wanted me to get to the bottom of it. The two of us worked together. Following what evidence he could find, what bread crumbs existed, to unveil what was going on. Windsor believes she still lives. The fact there was no body, that what biological evidence of her passing could have been fabricated… I believe he was in much deeper than he would even reveal to me. Our journey led us far from Stormwind. Eventually, we found correspondence that led us in the direction of the Burning Steppes, to Blackrook Mountain. There was a dragon’s lair there. One named Nefarian. Though the dragon has been long-since destroyed, I had discovered a dragon scale. One that eventually led us to the volcanic hellscape largely controlled by the Dark Iron dwarves. Unfortunately, I believe my investigation was compromised. When we arrived, we found little waiting but an ambush. Windsor and I were separated. Draconic forces. Though my understanding of draconic was limited at the time, I have reason to believe the individuals referred to the name Onyxia, like a war cryh. I suspect Windsor was killed, perhaps captured. But any attempts I have made to find him have proven unsuccessful, and I thought it unwise to continue. The only reason I was able to survive was Sabellian. As I fled the ambush, I was outmatched… and one drake had continued to pursue me, though I had eluded the rest. Then he appeared. Crushed the lesser dragon. Whisked me to safety. And explained what occurred. He told me that Onyxia was the name of his sister. That Sabellian too was the spawn of a dragon named Deathwing, that was once named Neltharion. I had asked him these questions, asked him why he saved me, and he answered them. But he never told me why he spared me, or why he raised talon against his kin. He then informed me that I knew sensitive information that could cause the death of he and his subordinates, and I had two choices. One, to die, or two, to become dragonsworn and help him. I resented him for a time, but truthfully the information he gave me was only what I asked for him. It was a bed I had made for myself. And it is not one I regret sleeping in. My contact has been sparse beyond that. But I sensed no deception in him that day. I traveled with him for a short time, found that the magics that were availed to the black dragonflight synergized well with my own magics, and I continued my work. I could not return to Stormwind. I could not find Windsor. Eventually, I found my way to Northrend. And the rest is history.

She looked at Gil.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: You were that new when you joined us at the temple?

Samia Inkling says: My wanderings lasted a handful of years. I believe I have been dragonsworn longer than you, Gilveradin. Albeit, not by much. But Windsor’s disappearance is still quite fresh. I have to wonder if what evidence I had found was… well, was turned around to damn his majesty with further fabrications. By the end, Windsor believed these dragons were responsible. He believed one was at the heart of the conspiracy. The great masquerade, he called it.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: I don’t believe he was wrong.

Samia Inkling says: No. It seems he was not. I never expected Katrana Prestor was part of it. I often wondered if she was keeping an eye on me the entire time, trying to transform me into her own dragonsworn, but it seems her brother Sabellian got to me first.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Or that was her way of doing so.

Samia Inkling says: I suppose that could be true… I don’t want to believe it. But if she is talented enough to manipulate the entire court of Stormwind… she is certainly talented enough to manipulate me. Even secondhand.

Vel considered what Samia had said for a moment.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Theoretically… if Windsor is dead he may actually be further within our grasp than if he were alive at this point. If we were able to get something tied to him, that may be able to give us some answers, unless, of course, they did something more permanent, which would be unfortunate.

Samia Inkling says: I do not know what Stormwind has done. I don’t know if they have him marked as missing in action, or if they’ve drummed up a story of his demise. Regardless, if you are as talented with necromancy as I have been led to believe you are, and you have some way to reach out to his spirit… that certainly could provide answers. And if it doesn’t, then we know that he may still yet live.

Velameestra Windrunner says: May live, or there are other circumstances preventing him from answering my call. But it’s something I may be able to look into once we’re out. I have a feeling that this place… would likely be separate from the Shadowlands as well, given we are outside of time.

Samia Inkling says: I suspect so. But if you seek to unmask Katrana Prestor, we’ll need proof. And if we want to get that proof, we’re going to need Windsor or whatever is left of him. If we can make our way to Nefarian’s lair, we may be able to see if there is anything there that can help us.

Velameestra Windrunner says: We could retrace the steps you took in the event maybe something was missed. Not that I doubt your skills, but sometimes a second pair of eyes can notice things the first had missed.

Samia nodded.

Samia Inkling says: Truthfully, I had not gotten the opportunity to use them very much in the Burning Steppes. I wouldn’t mind getting another go, albeit one with less dragons, ideally. Or well…

She glanced at Gil.

Samia Inkling says: Ones of more selective company.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I would ask that correspondence with your Authority not occur unless absolutely necessary.

Samia nodded.

Samia Inkling says: Consider it done. My correspondence with him is spotty at best. I carry a sending stone connected to his own, but he rarely responds. Normally he’s the one that would beseech me.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Even if he is not allied with his sister, the nature of the black dragons could very easily mean that he’s trying to pursue different motives of his own that are not conducive to what we are trying to do.

Samia Inkling says: If a time comes when you seek answers, I will reach out to him. But that need not happen. I swore an oath to him, but I likewise swore an oath before everyone gathered in the Wyrmrest Temple. My commitments are to the words I took. I don’t know the veracity of the claims I’ve heard, but I do know I meant the words I said. For what little that may mean. But I hope this information is of use to you, and my knowledge and abilities will be at your disposal when it comes time to seek answers in whatever form they might appear. And you have my word I will not reach out to my Authority unless you specifically request it.

Velameestra Windrunner says: If that compromise can be made, then I am willing to… give this a go.

Samia Inkling says: Very well. I will do what I can to avail myself in this very strange circumstance we find ourselves in now.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Strange indeed.

Samia Inkling says: I do believe it would be wise to inform you that once in the past, Sabellian had contacted me via Singe. It is not something he does often, and I am immediately aware if he attempts to do so. If he does, I will take the necessary precautions. But again, he’s done that once in many years. And it shall not be a surprise if he does so. It’s more like ringing a doorbell than entering unannounced. It’s something I would be able to be aware of. I’ll make sure there’s no evidence of your presence should he choose to do so.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: Korialstrasz has done much the same with me before.

Samia Inkling says: I’m not certain if the mechanisms between Ara’shel and Singe are identical, but there are similarities. I do know that Sabellian is a gifted mage on top of being a black dragon. It must run in the family.

Velameestra Windrunner says: The guise that Sabellian takes… it's not known to you, is it?

Samia Inkling says: Unfortunately not. I have reason to believe he has a visage, but I’ve neither seen it nor do I know if he’s operating amongst mortals. You mentioned Victor Prestor? You are under no obligation to tell me more about the circumstances until when and if you deem that necessary, but you claim he is involved in this conspiracy?

Velameestra Windrunner says: Ultimately… part of the reason we went looking for you, Gil, obviously as Uther explained, is that we needed to… set up a circumstance that could get Victor out. That transparency is a… necessary thing.

Samia Inkling says: He is… not allied with Deathwing?

Velameestra Windrunner says: No. Extremely opposed.

Samia Inkling says: We faced him on multiple occasions. I assumed that he was…

Velameestra Windrunner says: Victor needed to play his part, because he made the decision to remain behind when we fled. To try and get information that would help orchestrate the downfall of his father.

Samia Inkling says: Has he mentioned anything strange to you when you spoke to him?

Velameestra Windrunner says: There have been ample strange things going on. Unfortunately you’re going to need to be more specific.

Samia Inkling says: Voice, perhaps?

Velameestra Windrunner says: …Yes.

Samia Inkling says: He was able to stand against them?

Velameestra Windrunner says: With a great deal of duress. I have been…

Vel sighed.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I finished researching a spell that I’m hoping will be able to help him fend those off once we are able to actually retrieve him. But he needs to be with us for that to work.

Samia Inkling says: In our training, we learned that some members of the black dragonflight are plagued by the same madness that caused Deathwing to betray his kin. I do not know how widespread this is, but I have often wanted to believe that there are some trying to fight against it. If his highness is able to do so… I wonder if that willpower can be replicated.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Victor is also a unique circumstance.

Samia Inkling says: I wager he is. I want to help him. If there’s anything that I can do to help, I want to do it.

Velameestra Windrunner says: That will be his decision to make.

Samia Inkling says: Then I will try to craft a compelling case.

Samia looked over to Gil.

Samia Inkling says: I know that you likely have no love for Victor after the things he’s done and said to us, but I believe your sister is telling the truth. We have time, but please, consider giving him a chance. After all, had I not been given a chance, I wouldn’t be here.

Velameestra Windrunner says: He has expressed a great deal of remorse. He mentioned the encounters he had with your group… It was not something he enjoyed.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: Yes, I heard.

Velameestra Windrunner says: And as I mentioned, the length of this ruse… was exacerbated quite a bit due to the time dilation of the Shadowlands. Which, I will reiterate my own apologies in that regard.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: You don’t have control over every situation. You and I both know that.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Regardless.

Samia Inkling says: Nonetheless, we are here now. And, well, Aspects willing, we can find ourselves with as little lost time as possible once we resolve this particular issue. And perhaps we may rescue the bronze dragonflight in the process.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: Well if we don’t, we’ll have other issues down the road.

Samia Inkling says: Yes. Concerning, no doubt.

Vel looked over to Samia and held out her hand, and Samia took it with a solid shake.