Appearing Characters: Alleria Windrunner, Arator Windrunner, Arellas Fireleaf, Arthas Menethil, Benedictus, Calia Prestor, Dar'khan Drathir (Hallucination), Darion Mograine, Gilveradin Windrunner, Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil, James Vishas, Kael'thas Sunstrider, Lirath Windrunner, Maxwell Tyrosus, Natalie Seline, Othmar Garithos, Remnii, Renault Mograine, Rhonin Windrunner, Rommath Pyrewing, Sally Mograine, Teron Snapjoint, Uther Menethil, Velameestra Windrunner, Vereesa Windrunner, Victor Prestor
October 22nd
Othmar Garithos was called forward. He was a barrel of a man, and he had likely seen plenty of action, but he was beyond his prime and his jet-black hair and goatee was flecked with salt and pepper. He entered the center of the chamber.
Benedictus says: Baron Garithos, you have been called as your name has appeared on this list that has been identified as donors who have volunteered funding to the operations responsible for the creation of the plague that now devastates the Eastweald.
Another clerk brought forth other documents, and Benedictus stated that they had pulled various texts that bore Garithos’s signature, and they had found the text was identical to the signature on the manifesto, and a forgery seemed unlikely. He wished for Garithos to explain himself.
Othmar Garithos says: Good people of the Alliance, I admit that my name is on that manifest. I have nothing to hide about the funding that I donated towards this initiative. However, I would like to make an important clarification. I have never heard of this Cult of the Damned or the work to develop a plague to ravage our good nation. Indeed, for what reason would I do so? I would like to remind everyone that it is my lands that have been most thoroughly ravaged by the fallout of this Naxxramas that was destroyed. Why would I consign my own landings and people to such a fate? When we finally drive those greenskinned monsters from our lands, we will find nothing by plague-despoiled farmland.
Othmar shook his head.
Othmar Garithos says: It breaks my heart to think about what must be done to reclaim the land. There will be plenty of rebuilding, but now we don’t even know if that’s possible. The money I gave to Capless Feather Grains, what I believed to be an independent and benevolent company, one that could assuage our fears of famine… as the baron of the northern Eastweald, I felt an obligation to help provide for our good people, especially in the influx of mouths to feed, it became imperative for us to do such a thing. To hear that my funding, that the good coin of the taxpayers of Lordaeron, many who are not even here with us today… has been used, squandered even, on such blasphemy?
He put a hand over his heart.
Othmar Garithos says: I shudder to consider what Saint Mereldar might think.
Uther stared down at Othmar, and he knew he was a man who had spent years honing his craft and political skill. Uther knew he was able to seamlessly say the things he needed the crowd to hear, because to do otherwise would invite failure, and Othmar was no failure. However, the way Uther caught Othmar’s eyes linger on the balcony where the Scarlet Crusade was standing lead him to believe there was something else to the story that he was not sharing with the public.
Uther Menethil says: The amount of your donation to this cause… I find it curious, Baron Garithos, that a man of your reputation and attention to detail would have moved such a large sum of funds without investigating where it was being spent. Was this a failure on the part of your agents, or a failure to investigate at all?
Othmar smiled.
Othmar Garithos says: A fair question, your Highness, and allow me to say how wonderful it is to discover you were able to survive the sordid efforts we believe claimed your life. But this is neither here nor there… as you may have assumed, I of course had visited this establishment and found nothing out of sorts in my own investigations. Surely the truth of the matter was hidden from mine own eyes. Once more, I can attest that I was given assurance from my other compatriots, some of which are listed on that same manifest. Those who have done their own investigations and found nothing out of sort. That you uncovered the truth is a testament to your own keen eye, for that you must truly have the blessing of the Light. I can only imagine the devastation had you and yours not destroyed this operation before it spread further.
Uther Menethil says: Am I to take it to mean you were at the facility in Venetia?
Othmar Garithos says: I was present, yes. It was only right that I took a look at the operations. As I said, there was nothing out of sorts. Nothing I could see, at least.
Uther Menethil says: Incompetence, then.
Othmar furrowed his brow.
Othmar Garithos says: A bold claim. I would ask in what way would you deem my own investigations incompetent? Simply because you and your erstwhile companions discovered it? Is that not a testimony to your own skills?
Uther Menethil says: Perhaps. But with any measure of scrutiny in that place, it became very apparent that something was amiss.
Othmar started to say something, but Uther cut him off.
Uther Menethil says: I am not finished. Without leave to investigate, practically stumbling around in the dark, I uncovered the purpose of this facility. A glance at the ledger. Everything you’ve done and accomplished in your career, and you paraded through the center of the viper’s den and saw nothing but earthworms? What is that, Lord Garithos, if not incompetence. Incompetence, I might add, which has already cost the lives of countless Lordanes, and you would sit there with a hand over your heart and lament their loss without taking accountability? We bear responsibility for the people we lead, Lord Garithos.
Othmar scowled.
Othmar Garithos says: You are humble as ever, your Highness. I am certain the efforts you took may have felt like stumbling through the dark, but not all of us are trained knights of the Silver Hand. While your order is regrettably no longer together, none here south diminish your training. If that place was as foul as I had been led to believe, the stench would be keen to a nostril attuned to the Light. But I am a humble man. I have only my own guiding principles. Perhaps I was blind to the truth, but I was far more concerned about feeding the bellies of my people than looking for danger. When you went to this place, did you already suspect it to be a den of vipers?
Uther Menethil says: It was a distinct possibility.
Othmar Garithos says: So that makes sense you found such things. I thought it was our salvation! Perhaps I missed signs, but they were things I did not know. Master Snapjoint, you were the foreman of this place. I gave the donation to you directly. You gave me a tour. Did you show me anything that would have been a warning or clear evidence as his Highness said of the true meaning behind the place?
Toren shook his head.
Toren Snapjoint says: No.
Othmar Garithos says: And at any point during our discussion… was a Cult of the Damned spoken of? Did you reveal your true identity as a mastermind behind this cult?
Toren shook his head.
Toren Snapjoint says: No, my lord.
Othmar Garithos says: I believe your keen sense for evil is a boon to this great nation, your Highness. But I would hope you do not compare we lesser men to your shiny example if you find us unable to stand up to it.
Gil used message to telepathically plant the seed in Uther’s mind about how not many people knew about Venetia, but if he knew where he was going, why wasn’t he suspicious?
Uther Menethil says: You served in the troll wars, yes? You commanded in the troll wars?
Othmar confirmed, and he expressed that after the death of the king there were few who did not lend their leadership and blades to fend off the troll menace.
Uther Menethil says: Throughout your command, Lord Garithos, how many times did your subordinates come to you after failing in their tasks with mistakes that cost lives, and their explanation was “I didn’t think it was dangerous”? Did that ever happen? More importantly, if it did, how long would that man keep his post?
Garithos looked around.
Othmar Garithos says: People of the Alliance, are we to take conjecture like this at face value. Your Highness, I do not know what crimes you believe I perpetuated, but it is clear your experiences have driven you to great anger, and for that you have my deepest gratitude. I am certain seeing the despoiling of our lands firsthand has burned a seed of rage. But what you are speaking of is not the same. Even if my soldiers made a mistake on the battlefield, that is nothing like what happened here, my boy.
Uther Menethil says: Your Highness, Lord Garithos. You will address me with respect in this chamber, or not at all. I will not remind you again.
Othmar Garithos says: Of course, your Highness. Then tell me, what is wrong about seeking to help one’s people? If you discovered a great deed of altruism that you had perpetuated allowed a villain to enact their scheme, should you be punished? Are we blaming the victims now?
Uther Menethil says: Your people are the victims, Lord Garithos.
Othmar Garithos says: And I recognize that in my altruism, I was deceived. However, there is no more Capless Feather Grains for me to bring my wrath upon. I cannot bring my absolution, as you have already done that! What would you have me do, your Highness? Would you have me hanged for my mistake? For being deceived by demons? The only thing I am guilt of is trying to do what is best for this nation.
Uther Menethil says: And what is it you believe is best for this nation?
Othmar Garithos says: I thought I made that plenty clear. To make sure the good people of Lordaeron do not die of starvation. To ensure this winter does not claim any more lives than it has.
Othmar crossed his arms.
Uther Menethil says: I have no desire to see you hanged, Lord Garithos. That serves no one. My concern is that you, with the best of intentions ostensibly, committed a small fortune, did not follow up on where that money was going or how it was being spent, and as a result, I’m certain someone out there can do the math, Lordane blood is on your hands. I don’t think that you need to be punished for this, but I do question how responsible it would be to leave such power in your hands going forward.
Othmar scowled up at him.
Othmar Garithos says: So that is the kingdom you would run, your Highness? One where failure, where being deceived, is what it takes for having one’s authority revoked. If it is punishment for failure, perhaps we should take a closer look at the root of this problem. After all our dearth of food, our losses have been at the hands of the green skinned menace. And why are they at our borders? Stealing our lands, livestock, and people? Because they were allowed to enter into our world in the first place. If you blame me for being deceived by these devils who would spread plague, should we not be looking at the good people of Quel’Thalas, who allowed their sacred font to be used as a beachhead? After all, were you not yourself there at the same moment, did you not fail to–
Uther Menethil says: I died in that city, Lord Garithos! And the only thing that I regret is that I was not able to save more. You asked what sort of kingdom? I can’t tell you for certain, but something I can tell you with ironclad certainty that in my kingdom there is no place for commanders who point fingers instead of take accountability. Every word out of your mouth has been to preserve you and your legacy! Empty platitudes for those who have died! If you wish, draw up papers. See how far a tribunal against the elves will take you, but now I am concerned with you having directly funded the deaths of my people. Do you have anything to say in your defense other than “oops”?
Othmar recoiled.
Othmar Garithos says: And if that is the only thing I can say? If I can offer nothing more than an apology? What would you wish for here, your Highness? I’m certain everyone here is curious to hear.
Uther Menethil says: I have not the authority to make this a reality, but my suggestion would be you be placed under house arrest pending investigation. If there is nothing linking you to this nefarious business, then a second chance.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: You’re far mor merciful than I would be, your Highness.
Othmar shot Kael’thas a withering look.
Othmar Garithos says: If that is what you require to ameliorate your concerns, then I would be more than happy to comply. I have no intention of leaving the capital. If you need to dispatch your scouts to my holdings in the Eastweald or whatever other means you require, then I will be as patient as you need. Is that permissible to you, your Grace? And your Majesties?
He looked at Benedictus, Arthas, and Jaina. Benedictus nodded and stated that if those measures were willing on both sides, then there was no reason to forbid it. Othmar was to be kept under house arrest and a thorough investigation would be pursued, and at the conclusion the situation would be assessed. Kael’thas looked like he wanted to object, but he held his tongue because Rommath shot him a look. There were no objections.
Arthas announced that Baron Othmar would be escorted to an apartment where he would be staying, and Othmar said he looked forward to the truth being revealed, as he believed everyone would benefit from putting all the business behind them.
Sally was watching the exchange completely impassively and not allowing anything to slip by. Uther fixed her with a glowering look. It was clear they were likely allies, as Garithos had donated to them, but how deeply they were was unclear. Renault just scowled.
Othmar glared at Uther, but then smiled and offered a bow of his head in farewell.
Uther Menethil whispers: For Light’s sake, man, take some fucking responsibility…
Othmar Garithos says: Don’t speak to me about responsibility, not until you know the meaning of the word.
Several other nobles were brought up. Uther continued to appeal to them emotionally and encouraged them to recognize what harm they did, because taking responsibility could result in them having a chance to do better. One of the nobles had a very solid alibi, but Uther was able to push through and cornered him. As the tribunal continued, it took several hours, but he was able to get all of them convicted in some capacity. The last noble, however, also squealed, as he was a lord under Garithos’s command. They claimed that he was present with Garithos when they went to Venetia, and Garithos convinced him to donate as he had said that first and foremost the grain would go to those that needed it the most: the elven refugees. Garithos did it knowingly under the assumption the plagued grain would be killing the elves, at least according to the noble. “The parasites that would bleed their nation dry before spring if we don’t do something about it” were the words Garithos had supposedly said. The reason the lord agreed was because Garithos had promised him that his people would have everything they needed.
Kael’thas left during the accusation, clearly angered, and Rommath swiftly went after him.
Uther asked for the attention of the lords and ladies.
Uther Menethil says: In light of what we have learned here today, I think it’s important that all of us take a moment and remember that evil takes many shapes. One of its most vilest forms is the indifference of good people. That is all.
Gil, disguised, led a cheer in response, and it was evident Uther’s words had reached them. He got the sense that the things that were said there would be spread across the populace.
As everyone was being led out, Sally and Renault headed out into the crowd. A cowled figure was nearby, blending into the crowd. A voice called out and asked how it felt for the lies to be spilled out before them.
Darion Mograine says: Your past is catching up to you, brother.
When Renault turned, Darion was gone. Renault scowled and shook his head as he grit his gauntlet.
Sally Mograine says: Renault my love, we don’t have time to linger. Come.
Renault Mograine says: Apologies, I thought I heard something.
He followed after his wife.
It was fully night, nearly 10 or 11, by the time the tribunal ended. Natalie opted to meet them at the castle after she had rested. The party as well as Victor, Alleria, Rhonin, Vereesa, Lirath, Kael’thas, and Rommath opted to be present, though they had opted to disguise themselves as animals so as not to attract attention.
Natalie welcomed everyone and asked how things went with the tribunal. Uther said it went well, and Remnii agreed he had done well. Uther admitted he almost lost his temper. Victor was very quiet, as he was aware his mom was in the city and he was trying hard not to think about it.
Natalie Seline says: If you are ready, we can attempt to track down where she may have gone. I can make no guarantees, but I should be able to follow her echoes and find out what happened.
Remnii says: It is a better lead than what we had. Thank you Natalie.
Natalie led them to the window outside Vel’s room. Kael’thas also expressed that Uther did well, and he had no doubt that Garithos’s pristine cage would collapse soon enough.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: I’ll make sure that man rots.
Uther Menethil says: I appreciate the confidence in my methods. And I swear, Garithos will pay for what he has done to your people.
Kael’thas centered himself.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: For now, we need to find where Velameestra went.
Natalie stepped forward and her eyes glowed. She wove shadows in the air and placed her hand on the side of the castle. A mist eeked out of the room and coalesced into the form of a white raven, which started to fly through the air. The shadowy magic pulsed out and away over the city, and the memory came solid and started to fly through the sky.
Natalie Seline says: We need to follow her. It will only be able to linger while we are present, but wherever she went I should be able to project an illusion so you can see what I see.
The vampyrs turned into various animals and took off after the image as the others followed through the streets. The illusion flickered in and out, and the guard did not bother them as they had been informed of what was happening. They continued toward the western section of the city, past the basilica. The raven started to head toward the same section of the city that had come up during Uther’s own investigations.
Then the raven ducked into an alley, and Vel emerged into her disguised elven form. She looked around and started to head down the street. She avoided groups or singular wanderers, but she eventually arrived at Maple Street.
The image of Vel stopped as if she had seen something, and she headed further down the street. They followed, and they saw another figure materialize on a bench. He was wearing a cowl.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: …Arator?
The figure looked up at her. He had been holding his arms close, and he stood up. He pulled back his hood. Sure enough, Vel had come to the alley to meet Arator.
Alleria walked toward the vision, whispering her son’s name.
Arator looked at Vel.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: You came.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: I did. I’m sorry. I just… the deception. I didn’t know how else to…
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: Who are you?
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m… going by Zelda right now. But…
She slowly reached up to the mask across her eyes and undid it. She pulled it away from her face.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: You’ve… always known me as Velameestra.
Arator’s eyes went wide.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: I wanted to explain everything. I… I heard your sending. When we… when we died. I got it. Months ago. I wanted so desperately to respond, Arator, I did. But there was… no safe way to explain it. And then we got back…
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: You… you’re one of them…
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: …I am.
She looked to the side.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: I should have been there when you found out. I–
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: H-how did you know it was me?
She looked back at him, and her voice shuddered.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: The prayer. It was a hunch because of the prayer. I… I started dreaming you when we got back because I wanted to give you… something. Anything. And then when you started reciting the prayer in Andorhal… I… I didn’t want to think… but…
She trailed off.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: We’re all back. All of us. Uther is back at the castle right now.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: I don’t understand. They said you all died!
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: We had to let them believe that. Prestor tried to kill us. He… couldn’t know we survived. We were supposed to come back sooner but things happened. We escaped through… time passed here a lot faster than where we were. We emerged on another continent and six months had passed. I can explain everything.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: How did this happen? How did…
He took a step back away from her.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: I... Arator, please. Uther is back at the castle. So is Gil. Our family… I just want to talk.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: Is Alleria there?
Vel’s face fell at the fact he did not say “mother”.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: …Yeah. She is.
As Alleria watched, she reeled upon hearing him call her by her name.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: Why… why would you… what would you have to gain from…trying to reach out to me like this? I don’t understand.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: I didn’t want you to be alone… Arator, that’s all it was. I just... didn’t want you to be alone.
Vision of Sally Mograine says: He hasn’t been alone.
A dozen Scarlet Crusaders materialized around them. They had seemingly slipped in through another plane and had been spying from beyond the veil. Sally stood behind where Arator was, and Arellas Fireleaf was also among those that had appeared.
Vision of Sally Mograine says: Nor is he foolish enough to fall to your manipulations. Monster.
Vel looked at Sally, her eyes wide as she took in the Crusaders that had arrived, and she then looked at her cousin, confusion and fear evident on her face.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: Arator…?
Vision of Sally Mograine says: She may wear her face, Arator, but you know what she is. You know what she seeks to do.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: She’s lying to you! I would never hurt you!
Arator looked back at her, and his eyes flickered between his cousin and Sally. He raised his hand and clutched at his collar, a tick he displayed when he was troubled and bothered. As his sleeve fell down, the scriptures tattooed on his arm was revealed.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: Please… Please come with me. I’ll explain everything!
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: Grand Inquisitor… are you sure–
Vision of Sally Mograine says: We know how they hunt, Ashbringer. They go for where you are weakest. That is how they get you to lower your guard.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: So says the narrative you are spreading!
Vision of Sally Mograine says: Will you surrender, vampyr, or do we have to do this the hard way?
Vel’s eyes remained fixed on her cousin.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: Arator, please, come with me.
She started to step forward towards Arator, and the other inquisitors moved to stop her, but Sally held up her hand.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: We’d just be going back to the castle. That’s the only place we’d be going. Please. I can’t leave without you… I can’t…
Her voice broke again. She held her hand out with her palm facing upward, clearly looking for him to take it as magic manifested in her other hand. It was the beginning of a short-range teleportation spell. Her eyes didn’t leave Arator’s face.
Arator slowly reached out to her hand. There was clear conflict written on his face.
Alleria stepped through the illusions and approached where the images of the pair of them had manifested.
Alleria Windrunner says: Go with her! Go with her, Arator!
Arator’s hand closed around Vel’s, and she tried to release the magic she had conjured, there was an abrupt, searing pain in the hand that was clasped with Arator’s. She shouted in pain and surprise, but her hand closed tighter, as she refused to let go. An insignia had appeared on the back of her hand. It was an old symbol of the Holy Light, marking a magic that Arator had released to interrupt the teleportation.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: Arator, what are you doing!?
Her voice was panicked and desperate.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: We can help you. We can find a cure. We can… we can find someway that… we can find some way to help you.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: There’s no cure, Arator! Just death! I chose this! I chose this for them!
Vision of Sally Mograine says: Abjure her.
Six of the crusaders held out their hands and golden chains of holy magic erupted from them. A few of them, Vel was able to resist, but the sheer number of them broke through her defenses. Two of them wrapped around her arms and pulled her down to her knees.
Vision of Arellas Fireleaf says: Wait. She certainly has contingency enchantments. Let me unravel them first.
The elven mage released a powerful [Dispel Magic], and one by one Vel’s active enchantments were ripped away. She had attempted to counter the spell, but her own counter magic was swiftly blasted away by the other arcanists present.
Moments later, the abjurations were replaced with dimensional shackles. Arator and Vel’s eyes had not left each other, and both had tears streaming down their faces, his clear, and her’s bloody.
She held tighter to his hand, recognition and acceptance of what was happening crossing her face.
Vision of Velameestra Windrunner says: …It’s okay. I forgive you.
Another crusader shoved a bar of blessed metal into her mouth. Sally approached and placed a gauntleted hand on the vampyr’s head, and magic washed over her, domination magic forcing her to become a willing accompaniment.
Vision of Sally Mograine says: Take them back to the monastery. I’ll be there after this farce of a tribunal is at its end.
Vision of Arellas Fireleaf says: Of course, Grand Inquisitor. I’ll see you there.
With a conflagration of holy fire, the rest of them, including Arator, were teleported away.
Sally walked from the image and disappeared.
Alleria fell to her knees.
Alleria Windrunner says: …No. No.
Vereesa approached and put a hand on her shoulder.
Vereesa Windrunner says: We’ll get them back.
Kael’thas swirled, his cape arcing in a wide flurry, and stormed down the alley.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Where are you going, Kael?
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: Where do you think!? We know where she is! We need to get her back!
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Stop. You know that’s not a good idea.
Kael’thas whirled back on him with a snarl.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: She has been in their clutches for 48 hours!
Rhonin Windrunner says: He’s right, your Majesty. If we attack them right now, everything would be justified. Especially if you were there. Their narrative… it’s exactly what they want you to do. We have to do this smarter than them. And if we just come charging in… if you go charging in with your fangs on full display, what do you think they’ll say? I want to save her more than anyone… but we have to do this right. We have to do this right.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: You know Vel would want us to do it in a way that doesn’t damn everyone else.
Kael’thas released a horrifying, clicking, wrathful hiss, and a claw raked a three foot line down the side of a brick wall.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: I will make all of those monsters pay. Every. Last. One.
Alleria Windrunner says: My son is one of them!
Gilveradin Windrunner says: And we’ll bring him home.
Alleria Windrunner says: So help me, your Majesty, if you lay one hand on him!
Vereesa Windrunner says: Everyone calm down! Arkha’din is still here. Velameestra’s alive. We know where Arator is. Rhonin is right, we need to do this carefully, and if we go in there blazing and prove to Arator that you are the monster the Grand Inquisitor claims, then we will never get him back. Trust in Vel, and trust in him. We’ll get them out, alright? I promise you. We’ll get them both out.
She looked between Alleria and Kael’thas.
Natalie folded her hands in front of her.
Natalie Seline says: I’m sorry the answer was not the one you wished, but I fear it was the one we needed.
Remnii says: Fear can make monsters of our closest allies. I believe we should return to the castle. Rest and strategy will be needed. Thank you, Natalie.
Natalie nodded.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Let's get off the streets. We’ve made enough of a ruckus. I wouldn’t want to attract the locales.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Give me a moment.
He approached the massive claw mark, and he didn’t notice the scratch was a little bit too big, and a bit too deep, but he focused on the fact it needed to be repaired. He mended the damage.
They headed back to the castle in silence.
(TW: Implied Torture)
Meanwhile, deep in the catacombs of the Monastery, there were the rattles of chains and the echoes of screams in the ancient passage. There was also the sound of the stream of flowing water that ran beneath the chains that Velameestra was suspended from.
The shackles were very strong and blessed to ensure she could not escape by any means. Her items and armor had been stripped from her, and she had only the remains of trousers still stuck to her body. However, miraculously, her body was unmarred.
If she was anything else but a vampyr, it would have been anything but.
She heard humming. It was a familiar voice, but not the one that had been tormenting her at the Monastery. It had been tormenting her much longer than that.
The image of a flickering flame ensconced around a blackened skull on the body of a charred skeleton strolled into her view.
Dar'Khan Drathir says: What a delightful predicament you’ve gotten yourself into, Velameestra.
Vel bared her fangs and hissed at him.
Dar'Khan Drathir says: Oh! Not happy to see a friendly face for once? Come now…
Velameestra Windrunner says: Get out of my head.
Her voice cracked in a strained hiss. The chains she was suspended by rattled as her wrists strained.
Dar'Khan Drathir says: Are you sure that’s what you want?
Velameestra Windrunner says: The last thing I want is to see you.
Dar'Khan Drathir says: Do you think that’s what Arator thought? When he saw that you were that raven all along? Of all the people to saunter back into his life, of all the people it could have been, it had to be you.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Stop it.
Dar'Khan Drathir says: I can help you out of there, if you want.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You’re not even here!
Dar'Khan Drathir says: How do you know that?
He chuckled.
Dar'Khan Drathir says: How about this? I’ll let you out, and all you have to say is that I was right. Admit that, and I’ll have you on your way to freedom! You can whisk Arator away and everything will go right back to normal. Just the way you want it to.
Velameestra Windrunner says: In your warped perception of heroism? Get out. Of. My. HEAD!
She spat at him, and when she blinked, the phantom was gone with an echo of laughter that blending into a familiar whistled tune that carried down the hallway. It was gleeful and ominous, and a sensation of dread filled the pit of her stomach and fear washed over her flesh.
She saw the caretaker of the establishment.
He was a scrawny man. His face and skin was a network of long healed callouses. He was completely clearly shaven. There were not even eyebrows on his face. They were too likely to singe off in his line of work.
James Vishas says: Good evening, my favorite little subject! Tell me, how are you feeling today?
Vel looked away from him and didn’t respond.
James Vishas says: Aw, the silent treatment, eh? Mmhm, don’t worry, I’m sure we’ll be singing together again very soon! I do have a question for you though. Your left or your right?
She again didn’t respond.
James Vishas says: Come now, come now!
He approached a workstation where he started to mess with all sorts of devices and torture implements. He cranked up a rack to reset it, and polished up an iron maiden.
James Vishas says: Come now, this would be much easier if you just answer me.
His voice had a sing-song pang to it.
James Vishas says: Even a monster like you must have a favorite.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I wouldn’t give you the privilege…
Her voice wavered despite herself.
James Vishas says: Alright, alright, keep your secrets. I’ll rip them from your flesh soon enough, after all.
He looked at Vel for a very long time.
James Vishas says: Well, judging from your equipment… I believe you are somewhat ambidextrous, so I’m not sure which is your favorite. Hm. I’ll just start with your right.
He released a lever, and Vel was abruptly lowered dangerously close to the flowing stream beneath her.
James Vishas says: I’d say don’t squirm, but that’s half the fun!
He withdrew a long, sharp piece of iron. One that Vel had become painfully familiar with.
James Vishas says: How many times do you think you can regenerate an eye? Do you have a guess? A dozen. Two dozen perhaps? The anticipation is more than I can bear! Lets find out together, shall we?
He grabbed Vel’s hair and yanked her head back. The poker got steadily closer and closer. Vel wrenched her head and tried to sink her fangs into his hand, but as she did he swiftly slipped a disc with holy symbols engraved on it into the way. It seared the bottom of her mouth with a sudden surge of holy energy.
It too was a familiar sensation, and she grunted and hissed as he clicked his tongue at her.
James Vishas says: Uh uh, no biting.
He continued to move the poker closer, but then they heard the heavy sound of the door opening. Vishas pulled the poker away from her.
James Vishas says: Can’t you see I’m busy!?
It was Sally Mograine that had entered the chamber, the clacking of her heels echoing through the hall. Vishas immediately straightened up.
James Vishas says: Grand Inquisitor, a thousand pardons, I thought one of the–
Sally Mograine says: Have you discovered anything of interest?
James Vishas says: She’s being stubborn, but I promise I will get everything I can from her in due time–
Sally Mograine says: We don’t have the benefit of due time, Vishas. It’s time for us to take more extreme measures.
She approached Vel and Vishas stepped aside. She sighed as she regarded the vampyr.
Sally Mograine says: Stubborn as ever, are you, Velameestra?
Velameestra Windrunner says: …what do you want?
Sally Mograine says: I want to know everything you know. I want to know all your secrets. I want to know how you and your… friends… did what you did in Andorhal. I want to know how you discovered the plague and put an end to the madman’s scheme. And I want to know exactly how many of your people have been twisted into monsters like you. I want to know *everything* you know, and mark my words…
She raised Vel’s chin with the tip of her armored finger.
Sally Mograine says: I. Will. Have it. And then perhaps you’ll find some small semblance of absolution. Perhaps then you can finally do something good for your people for once.
Vel’s fangs bared slightly.
Velameestra Windrunner says: This is your so-called cure, is it?
Sally slit Vel’s chin with the tip of one of her fingers, leaving a cut that swiftly healed.
Sally Mograine says: There’s only one cure for abominations like you. But… poor Arator. He has convinced himself that there is some way you might be saved.
Velameestra Windrunner says: While the actual monster masquerades in front of him.
Sally Mograine says: Poetic. Your words mean little. After all, you won’t be able to formulate them for very much longer. I will be sure that’s the case.
Sally held out her staff and Light, in searing radiance, burned at the tips of the pokers in Vishas’s hands. They were imbued with the holy magic from the staff in her hands.
Sally Mograine says: Your resolve is admirable, but it will break, and when it does, I’ll make sure everyone knows exactly what kind of monster you truly are. There won’t be any need for masks any longer, Velameestra. And then we can begin the real work of the Light. Ensuring your filth doesn’t spread any further.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I hope it’s worth it.
Sally turned away from her.
Sally Mograine says: I’ll be checking in on your progress from now on. Don’t disappoint me.
James Vishas says: Of course! Of course!
Sally glanced back at Vel.
Sally Mograine says: We’ll speak again soon, Velameestra. And when we do, we’ll see how bright that flickering flame still burns in your heart.
Sally left, leaving Vel with Vishas. The man went over to the stream of fresh water that flowed beneath the vampyr and he stuck one of the tools into it. It steamed as the water flowed over it, filling the room with mist, but it did not cool.
James Vishas says: Oh this… this is a true blessing of the Light.
If Vel breathed, her breath would have caught in her throat as the dread and fear set in again, and she twisted her hands against the shackles. She was locked in place, and Vishas closed on her again.
James Vishas says: Let's hear you sing again, shall we?
Vel screeched in agony.
October 23rd
The next morning, all the information was shared with various allies. Rommath and Kael’thas opted to bring the information back to the elves at the Bulwark and inform them what happened so that as many of their people as possible were prepared to bring the hammer down on the Crusade.
Jaina started to do the same in the subtle ways she was able to. It was decided that, unless Sally surprised them, they would be planning to raid the Monastery on October 31st, as it was when the veil was the thinnest, and attacking at night would ensure the human crusaders were at the disadvantage.
Gil checked in with Krasus to see if there was any chance to get dragons to help spirit away prisoners, but Krasus expressed that Uther’s revelation drew the focus of the black dragonflight and it was not safe for their number to appear in Lordaeron.
Uther caught Darion in the sparring yard at the castle destroying a few training dummies.
Uther Menethil says: Oof! What did that one say?
Darion rolled his neck and said Uther didn’t want to know.
Uther Menethil says: Well, as much as I’d like to compliment your sword arm, we have something to discuss.
Darion Mograine says: Of course.
Darion sheathed his blades and grabbed his waterskin.
Darion Mograine says: What’s on your mind, Uther?
Uther Menethil says: The Torchbearers. How many in fighting shape?
Darion Mograine says: I don’t have an exact number, but there are more than just us. We’ve already sent missives to meet near the old Monastery and camp out. We’re going to bring as much as we can to bear. I’d say a few dozen? With all of us plus sympathetic voices.
Uther Menethil says: A fine number. I was thinking… that despite what they truly are, for better or for worse, the Scarlet Crusade is the pillar of faith here. I don’t like the idea of destroying that without having something to replace it.
Darion Mograine says: Yeah, I understand. I have to admit, I haven’t been worried about that. But maybe I should be. I know Max is. Excuse me, Lord Tyrosus.
Uther discussed arranging a meeting with the other former members of the Silver Hand, because ultimately he was considering reforming the Silver Hand itself.
Darion nodded.
Darion Mograine says: I don’t know what the old man will say, but count me in!
Uther Menethil says: Excellent. A formality, I didn’t imagine you’d be adverse to the idea.
Darion Mograine says: I think he’s borrowed an office, we can go talk to him.
Uther Menethil says: It would foolish to not seek his council.
They arrived in the office and explained, and Maxwell said that he had been considering the same thing for a while.
Maxwell Tyrosus says: truthfully, it wasn’t my idea to begin with. Raymond George came up with the thought once it became evident we were going to collide with the Crusade. I think there are plenty of voices willing to join forces, but I have a few others things I want to bring into it. Things that would hopefully prevent something like the Scarlet Crusade from happening again.
Uther Menethil says: I’m not one for divination, but I don’t imagine myself disagreeing with those suggestion.
Maxwell explained he had reached out to some sympathetic voices and he believed if they were lucky they could have a meeting before everything went down. Ultimately, with the Crusade out of Capital City for the time being, they’d have an easier time moving around, but he would let Uther know when everyone arrived. However, Maxwell wanted to make it happen, and he had already spoken with Arthas (the one wearing the crown), and if he and Turalyon were onboard, he believed the idea would be further solidified.
Maxwell said he also liked Uther’s idea about the tabards, and he could likely get it arranged as he had a few tailor friends in the city.
Gil borrowed Uther’s shield to try and burn through studying the Titanic discs. He was able to finish it in three days. The first time it was booted up, Uther and Gil watched it eagerly. The image spoke in Titanic, and it requested identification of the user.
Uther stated his name, and the disc requested his facility assignment. Uther said Ulduar, and the disc responded it did not recognize his dialect. Gil told Uther to just speak in common, and Uther provided a brief dialect sample.
It seemed to recognize the language after some sampling, and it asked what they wished to do. Uther said they wanted to use the disc, and the disc responded that he was presently accessing the platinum disc. Uther said he wanted to learn about leadership, and the disc responded that the files were corrupted and needed to be returned to a Titan facility.
However, then the disc flickered, and a figure reappeared and stated leadership could not be quantified, as one needed to be named a leader, but the question of who named a leader was another one. The disc waxed on some philosophy with them, and then it seemed satisfied with their answers.
It launched into a lecture about leadership and how every word was a responsibility, as every word’s impact on those that hear it was unfathomable. It was effectively a 48 hour interactive essay.
After Gil finished his binge study, he then went out to help in the city. He also notified the Scales about what happened, and the Scales informed him they could get to the Monastery when needed.
Uther went to speak with Arthas in his private chambers, and as he entered, he saw that Arthas was not alone. Calia was there, and they were having tea.
Calia stood up as Uther entered.
Calia Prestor says: Uther! I’m so glad that you’re alright.
She approached him and pulled him into a hug. Uther hugged her back.
Calia Prestor says: I cannot say the grief I felt when I heard what happened. Though I would have given anything to bring Arthas back, I never wanted to trade for you. I’m so glad that you were able to survive. When I heard what had happened at the cavern… the Light was clearly with you that day, and for that I am eternally grateful.
Uther Menethil says: If I were to interpret it, I would say the Light blessed me by putting me in the path of someone very capable. Were it not for them, we wouldn’t be having this conversation.
Calia Prestor says: I was just catching up with your father.
Uther Menethil says: Glad I am to hear it.
As far as Uther could tell, Calia was completely genuine. There was no deception in her voice, and no hint that she meant anything other than the fact she was extremely happy Uther was alive.
Calia Prestor says: I’m glad you’re here. After all, I need to talk to you. Something has happened. I was going to come and find you, but now that you’re here I can tell both of you together.
Arthas furrowed his brow.
Arthas Menethil says: Is everything alright?
Calia Prestor says: Victor’s been kidnapped. We don’t know who was responsible. He was away on business, and then he just disappeared. All of his retainers were slain, and there was nothing. No trace. It was just like what happened before. Like what happened with you.
She looked at Arthas.
Calia Prestor says: I thought that this had been put to rest, but now they came after my boy, and I don’t know where he is.
Arthas furrowed his brow.
Arthas Menethil says: Calia… I don’t know what to tell you, but–
Uther Menethil says: Have the abductors made any demands at all?
Arthas looked at Uther, confused. Calia shook her head.
Calia Prestor says: No, nothing, we haven’t heard a single word.
Uther Menethil says: Curious…
Calia Prestor says: Has he reached out to you at all? Since returning? Have you seen any evidence of where he might have been?
Uther Menethil says: You would have been among the first I came to after I returned amongst the living. If you’ve heard nothing from the abductors, it stands to reason he’s safe. If I know my cousin, the longer someone has him and delays their plans, the greater chance of him undoing them.
Calia sighed and put a hand over her heart.
Calia Prestor says: I haven’t been able to sleep. When I heard about the tribunal I made myself here so I could represent Alterac, but I needed to tell you as well. I’ll be sure to tell Jaina. Perhaps her magic could find some answer and find out where my boy has been taken. Mark my words, I will not let anyone hurt our family anymore.
Arthas Menethil says: I know, Calia. Don’t worry, we will find him. He’s a tough guy. He always has been. After he put his life on the line to save me, I won’t let that debt not be repaid. We’ll bring him back to you.
Uther Menethil says: Our entire childhoods, he was a step ahead of me. I survived everything I have, so it’s unlikely that anyone would be able to get the better of him.
Calia Prestor says: Thank you. Your words are salve to my soul. This business with the Scarlet Crusade is… dreadful. The idea that they may have been behind this… I will share what happened here with my lord husband. I’ll make sure that the Crusade is held accountable for what they did. At the end of the day, I don’t suspect that Lady Mograine will fulfill her end of this bargain.
Arthas Menethil says: That’s what many are saying.
Calia Prestor says: It is a shame it has come to this. But I trust that justice will prevail. After all, they have the two of you to contend with, not to mention Jaina. Thank you both for hearing me out.
Uther Menethil says: Of course. Will you be heading back to Alterac soon?
Calia Prestor says: Later this eve our caravan will be leaving. We will try to send reinforcements to aid if the Scarlet Crusade shows its true colors.
Arthas Menethil says: That won’t be necessary. If the High King sees it fit to send aid, send it to the Bulwark.
Calia Prestor says: Of course. I hope we can see each other again soon, and with better news.
Uther Menethil says: As do I.
Uther stood up to give his aunt another hug.
Uther Menethil says: Light be with you. Safe travels. And when you see the High King, tell him I’m looking forward to seeing him again.
Calia Prestor says: I’ll do just that, Uther.
Calia kissed Uther on the cheek. As Uther embraced her, he felt something itching in the back of his mind. Something that was almost imperceptible. But then he realized it was already gone, as if something just left. But he didn’t think it was his aunt. He had an amulet that should have protected against divination magic, but he still had the feeling that maybe he wasn’t alone.
Calia Prestor says: Take care, both of you.
Uther Menethil says: You as well, aunt Calia.
Calia left the two of them alone. As the door closed, Arthas looked to Uther after a long while. Uther had collapsed into a chair after Calia left.
Uther Menethil says: That was terribly unpleasant.
Arthas Menethil says: Am… I missing something? I don’t understand why you didn’t tell her. About Victor.
Uther looked up at his father with a pained expression.
Uther Menethil says: We believe that Calia may be compromised. Based on the interaction that I just had with her, there’s a good chance she has no idea she is.
The door opened, and Jaina entered along with a guard.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Was Calia just here? What did she say?
Arthas Menethil says: We were just talking. She told us about Victor’s disappearance.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: You didn’t tell her, right?
Arthas Menethil says: No, but I would have appreciated a warning.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: My love, I did. I told you earlier today.
Arthas Menethil says: I think I would have remembered that.
Jaina put a hand over her mouth and said that it was good Uther was there.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: You didn’t tell her anything, right?
Uther Menethil says: Nothing important. I requested she tell my uncle I’m looking forward to seeing him again.
Jaina sighed.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Good. Did you notice anything strange?
Uther Menethil says: Absolutely.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: What happened?
Uther Menethil says: Before she left, I went to embrace her. Something was there. It was gone the moment I noticed it, but there for certain. Like cold fingertips at the edge of my mind. The sensation lingered.
Jaina shook her head.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: It sounds like thought divination but your amulet should protect from that… unless it’s something else. Nevertheless, it seems for the moment she doesn’t know you’re here.
She turned to the guard, who spoke in Victor’s voice.
Victor Prestor says: I don’t understand. She looks so normal! Everything about her is exactly as it should be… I just want to tell her it’s going to be alright.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: I know, Victor. That’s why I’m here. To make sure you don’t.
Victor Prestor says: I know. Thank you. For as much as I want to yell and scream, thank you for making sure I don’t mess this up. She’s leaving this evening, and she doesn’t know I’m here. It’s best we keep it that way for now.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Arthas, we need to get you more protections. I’ll work on that. Sorry. There’s a lot going on, and I can’t let any of this… we’ll make this work. Good job, both of you.
She gave Uther a hug and Arthas a kiss on the cheek. She asked Victor to help her elsewhere, and the pair of them headed off. Arthas also flopped into a chair. They had the same pose.
Uther Menethil says: You and mother did entirely too good of a job.
Arthas Menethil says: With what?
Uther Menethil says: I think that may be the first time I told a meaningful lie, and that was the hardest thing I had to do in the last 24 hours, and yesterday I punched an interdimensional god beast in the chin.
Arthas Menethil says: You’re doing better than I am. I’m glad you took after your mother more than me. At least in that regard.
Uther Menethil says: I never saw you tell any lies.
Arthas Menethil says: That’s because I’m not bad at it.
Uther Menethil says: Apparently neither am I! I just don’t like doing it. Well. I’d almost forgotten what I came here for. Father, I’d like your support with something.
Arthas Menethil says: Anything. How can I help?
Uther Menethil says: I’m going to reform the Silver Hand. And, barring some incredibly wild counterplay by Mograine in this, the inevitable siege of the Scarlet Monastery will be our first official act. I’d like you to ride with me.
Arthas sighed.
Arthas Menethil says: Tyrosus said something similar. I presume you spoke with him?
Uther confirmed.
Arthas Menethil says: I… I don’t know. Uther, when the others first brought the idea of the Scarlet Crusade, I couldn’t do anything to stop everything I had sworn to protect from falling apart. It’s bad enough that I lost the Libram of Justice… but I wouldn’t have been worthy to hold it even if I had it. I’m a disgrace. To the ideals of the Silver Hand and the Light. I think my presence would just do more harm than good.
Uther nodded.
Uther Menethil says: It was difficult surviving after that cavern. One fight bled into the next for what felt like weeks. But when we found rest, I did not find peace. A voice that I had heard a handful of times before, usually concerning Victor being stronger or faster, told me I wasn’t anything more than a silly boy playing hero. They were delusions of belief that I was strong enough to do anything, but I had just danced to my enemy’s tune and hand delivered everything to them. And it almost cost me you.
He had started to tear up.
Uther Menethil says: When we made it out of that cavern, I didn’t know if you had survived. And I walked into the desert and I screamed and I wept. And then my friends and I marched north. A great many things tried to stop us. If I had been alone, I don’t think I would have made it out of the desert. You were outplayed, father. You lost a battle, but you didn’t lose the war. When I was a boy, you, Falric, Marwyn… even Darion. During training you would knock me into the dirt. Sometimes, I didn’t want to get back up. It hurts getting smacked in the face with a wooden stick, especially after the eighth time in the same spot. I didn’t want it to happen a ninth time. All of you told me that as long as I got back up, I wasn’t beaten. You’ve been smacked in the face with the stick. Many times since my disappearance. Father, you are king of Lordaeron. Our people need you. And in this time, their faith in the Light is about to be shattered. We have an opportunity. We can take that fear and turn it into strength and pride. You told me that our line always ruled with wisdom and strength. You told me that I should show restraint when exercising power, and you also told me, father, that the truest victor is stirring the hearts of your people. We can do this, father. You, me, Tyrosus, Mograine, Turalyon… to each other, we just see the people. But to our people, father? The heroes of old. Clad in armor of silver. Riding to defeat the enemy that peddles fear and oppression, emerging victorious with the dawn. That kind of story has power, father. That is the kind of story that stirs the hearts of the people. And you didn’t lose the Libram of Justice.
Uther reached into his bag and placed the libram on the table. Arthas looked at it in shock, and his thumb traced the edge of the book.
Arthas Menethil says: But… what if it isn’t enough? What if I just fail again?
Uther Menethil says: Then we get back up and we try again. Something different next time. And if that fails, we do it again. We will do that until we have brought peace back to our lands, or our bones decorate the ashen wastes.
Arthas Menethil says: You’re right. Light, you… you’ve grown. Saints above, I have to wonder what Uther would think. The Lightbringer, if he were to see my sorry state. But you’re right.
Uther Menethil says: I think he’d have harsh words for you, but I also think he’d forgive you.
Arthas Menethil says: I think you’re right about that too. I haven’t been doing the right thing for a long time.
He placed his hand on the libram.
Arthas Menethil says: Maybe it’s not too late to change that. Maybe it’s not too late to start to make things right.
Uther Menethil says: The best time was months ago. The second-best time is right now.
Uther held out his hand to grip his father’s forearm.
Uther Menethil says: Help me write this story, father.
Arthas looked tired, but determined. A spark has flickered in his eyes. He took Uther’s arm.
Arthas Menethil says: Okay. Okay.
He looked down at the tome.
Arthas Menethil says: But if we’re going to do this… I think I need to start from page one.
Uther Menethil says: I’ll leave you to it. Let me know if I can help.
Arthas Menethil says: You already have, my son, more than either of us know. But… when the letters start to jumble and my brain starts to hurt… I’ll let you know. Maybe we can go for a ride and get some clean air.
Uther Menethil says: That is a difficult book to read. If it wasn’t for Vel–
He cut himself off, and his face set, and he swallowed.
Arthas Menethil says: We’ll get her out. She’s done far too much for this family to give her anything but the best. I promise. We won’t let her suffer a moment longer than she has to. And we’ll find Arator too.
Uther nodded.
Uther Menethil says: I know. We have much work to do, and very little time to do it.
Arthas took up the tome as Uther left, and started at the beginning.
October 24th
The day after Uther spoke with Arthas and Calia, the group learned through reports that started to come in from the city watch that there had been a string of serial killings that started last night. There were four people killed in the night. Some were killed in their homes, one in the streets, and one in the apartment adjacent to the castle where he was under house arrest.
They arrived at the apartment where Othmar Garithos was being kept, and they saw his corpse. His neck had been split, and his bowels torn open in a vicious way. He was very thoroughly dead, his blood painted across the apartment in a scene of unbridled violence.
The other corpses were in various degrees of violence. One was a noble. One was a commoner that happened to live on the streets that had been paid off, a family member of one of the guards who had accepted the bribes. The third was a Scarlet Crusader, one who was killed in his own bed in the barracks.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: What… happened? Who did this…
She looked at one of the guards that had cordoned off the area, and she asked if Kael’thas was still in the city. The guard told her that he had left to the Bulwark to tend to his own people.
Jaina furrowed her brow.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: What of Alleria?
The guard shook her head and said the elves had already returned to the Bulwark. Jaina expressed that she hoped they were right.
