Appearing Characters: Arator Windrunner, Belmont, Billy Bright, Crystagosa/Cristine Ashmore, Doctor Boom, Gilveradin Windrunner, Hedanis Poisonbloom, Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil, Kanrethad Ebonlocke, Liadrin Everpost, Liiraluma, Lillian Voss, Maraad, Natalie Seline, Novos, Remnii, Rhonin Windrunner, Sally Mograine, Samia Inkling, Seria, Sigilith Avernicious, Togwaggle, Uther Menethil, Victor Prestor, Wayfair
October 24th
Remnii asked how long ago the baron was found as she paled, witnessing the gruesome scene. The guards replied that he was found that morning, as he hadn’t answered the door, and when they entered they had found him dead.
Uther asked if he was under watch, and the guard assured him that there were guards all over the halls constantly, and there was no outside contact.
Uther Menethil says: None of them heard anything?
Lordaeron Guard says: No. Nothing. Whoever did this was extremely quiet.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: I’ll have our agents look into it. I have no idea how this could have happened… I had this place watched. There are magics here that I placed. Alarms. None of them have been triggered. I don’t know how this could have been done.
Remnii was rendered speechless.
Remnii says: I’m… not sure what to say.
Uther looked at the guard and asked who knew about the event. The guard said that so far it was only them and those that had found Othmar. Uther said to keep it that way, and he asked about the other victims. The guard said it was similar circumstances, as some were in their homes, while others were in public places. They were not optimistic being able to keep it fully quiet.
Remnii rolled up her dress to take a closer look at Othmar. It was evident he was killed by several lacerations and impaling, likely from blades or something of a similar size. She also sensed there was something about the injuries that indicated they were likely from manufactured weapons, and they were also likely from a magic weapon.
Jaina approached and tried to use the [Analyze Blood] spell had developed. However, as the blood dispersed, it became evident that whoever had done it was protected from divination magic.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Whoever did this is still out here. We need to find them before this happens again.
Remnii says: Have the other sites been disturbed yet?
The guard reported the other areas were being watched, and Remnii suggested they should visit the other crime scenes and discern if the weapons were of the same variety.
Gil contacted Samia to come in, and Luma also arrived in the city to help.
They took a few days looking into the serial killings, and it was clear they were all done by the same person, and it was clear they were an expert in their field. Samia also tried to speak with the spirits of the dead using Vel’s spells, and none of them worked. Likewise, Natalie was unable to see the perpetrator with her psychometry either. However, more and more deaths were occurring as the days go on.
There was an obvious connection that none of the victims were elves, and all of them had some sort of connection with the Scarlet Crusade.
October 25th - October 28th
Uther was able to get a response to his message he had sent to Reverend Billy Bright about discussing the potential of meeting with the rest of the mage lords. Uther managed to get up to Venetia with teleportation magic, where he was able to meet with Billy Bright after one of his sermons.
They exchanged pleasantries and Uther expressed he was grateful that he could meet with him on such a short notice. Billy asked what it was all about.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t think this is secret, but Venetia so far has survived on its anonymity. Due to the actions of Heigan Capless, that is coming to an end. Already, enough of the lords of the Alliance are aware, and also thanks to Heigan Capless, they have iron-clad reason to move against the city. I do not want that. I may have a way to protect the city from that fallout.
Billy Bright says: Go on.
Uther Menethil says: As a result of the information we received, the Scarlet Monastery has been forced into a position where they either admit their guilt publicly or with silence. I’m moving against them on Hallow’s End. Now, as for the fate of Venetia, the existence of this place will be revealed to the rest of the world. It’s not certain about the how or when. I believe it would be in the best interest of everyone to dictate the terms of that revelation. I can think of no better way to distance themselves from a magically engineered plague than by joining the efforts of bringing those that perpetrated it to justice. I’m reforming the Silver Hand, Reverend Bright. I can certainly use the recruits.
Billy Bright laughed heartily.
Billy Bright says: Ain’t that something? I must admit, your offer sounds mighty intriguing, and it ain’t one that I personally would want to miss out on. But you raise good points, and would you believe it, but the other mage-lords and I have been discussing certain things. Given the nature of the events in question, the idea that our good city here might not be able to be quite as hidden as it was has come up. While there’s still a lot of discussion, you bring up a good point. And it goes without saying that one of our own members is responsible for this effort as well. Heigan Capless was only one mage-lord, but Master Fireleaf is still in cahoots with the Scarlet Crusade, and I know for myself… I don’t think it’s a good idea for others to bring him into justice, especially given his involvement. Fireleaf has been silent to any missives we’ve sent, and I’m sure you know why. The poor sinner has backed himself into a corner.
Uther Menethil says: Indeed he has.
Billy Bright says: I’ll call on the mage-lords. We can see about giving them this same speech. While I’m sure not everyone will be interested, I wouldn’t be surprised if some of them might get together. After all, that is in our best interests to ensure that whatever comes after this is something that is for the best of all of us.
Uther Menethil says: Something I feel all of the mage-lords may share based on the clandestine nature of their beliefs, is the value of their autonomy. While acting with no oversight is probably out of the question, I may have a way to preserve a good measure of that autonomy. As it happens, your entire city lies within the borders of the kingdom I will one day rule.
Billy Bright says: In a manner of speaking I suppose you can say that.
Uther Menethil says: Geographically, anyway. The important thing is that no other sovereign entity could move against this place without traveling through my lands. As difficult as it will be to convince the mage-lords, it will be difficult to also convince the Alliance to allow the sovereign state of Venetia to enter the Alliance. But I pride myself on making the impossible possible. But it will go a long way towards opening their ears if their first exposure to this place is to see it bring law and order back to my kingdom.
Billy chuckled.
Billy Bright says: Big words, your highness. Big plans.
Uther Menethil says: I’m told that’s what kings do.
Billy Bright says: Ain’t that the truth. I’m interested to see what everyone else thinks.
Uther asked for him to arrange the meeting, but he himself had a war to plan for. Billy assured him that he would be in contact, as he didn’t believe that it would take overly long, and it probably would only be the next day.
The following day, there was a knock on Uther’s apartment door, and he was greeted by a tall man with the dark leather garb of the Venetia mage hunters. There were a dozen daggers on a bandolier, and his pale pallid skin was evident as he looked down at Uther. He had a network of sharp spikes of blue hair that had been styled on his head. It was evident he was undead, and he scowled. He introduced himself as Belmont, and in the small talk it was revealed he was the one that was leading the charge on the warehouse. It seemed he had been hit by the fallout of the plague.
Belmont says: You and your lot left quite an impression. Coming in. Blowing wide a conspiracy within the mage-lords.
Uther Menethil says: My companions and I have a habit of making a commotion.
Belmont says: It’s been the most interesting thing in this city for a while. And that’s saying something. If I’m not mistaken… your plan in all this is reforming the Silver Hand?
Uther Menethil says: A means to an end, though that’s happening regardless of what the mage-lords decide.
Belmont says: Fair enough. And this crusade, these Scarlets, they were responsible for helping to fund that plague?
Uther confirmed.
Uther Menethil says: I’m not certain how much of the high command is involved, but at this point it doesn’t matter, does it?
Belmont says: Guess it doesn’t.
They had arrived at one of Madame Wayfair’s magnificent mansion establishments, and Belmont told Uther he had his sincerest hopes that he could convince the mage-lords, as it sounded like Belmont himself had a score to settle with the Scarlets, and he wouldn’t mind another raid. Uther said he would be glad to have him.
Uther stepped into the mansion, which was set as a large amphitheater with a large causeway that terminated in a circle. Many of the mage-lords were disguised in their projected images, but there were many faces Uther may have recognized, including Lady Ashmore, Kanrethad, Baron Togwaggle, and several others. There was no one that looked like Rafaam. A very tall half elf with ethereal white hair, Madame Wayfair, smiled gently down at him, and there was also a goblin with a metal face mask looking down.
Madame Wayfair greeted Uther on behalf of the mage-lords of Venetia. Overhead was a field of stars, and plunging beneath the platform was roiling, bright blue light that created ambient blue light.
Uther thanked them for their attention and hospitality.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t believe anyone in this room needs me to tell them that Venetia’s time in the shadows is coming to an end. Soon, the rest of the world will learn of this place. An unscrupulous sort may hear tell of a secret mage city packed to the rafters with arcane secrets, and all they would have to do is convince armies to march at their back and point to the birthplace of the plague that almost ended life on our planet. However, should the world’s first exposure to this wondrous place be a cabal of powerful wizards seeking to bring one of their own to justice, those armies might be a little bit harder to raise. I don’t know you personally, I don’t know what drives any of you, but I conjecture to what’s important. The very nature of this place. None of you like being told what to do.
There were some claps of agreement.
Uther Menethil says: While I can’t promise the lack of oversight you’ve become accustomed to, I’m prepared to fight for all of you to keep that autonomy. My plan is to recognize Venetia as a sovereign entity and extend an offer of invitation into the Alliance. No small feat. There are those in the Kirin Tor that would see me disintegrated for suggesting such a thing!
There were some laughs.
Uther Menethil says: But as you have all had a small taste, I don’t much care for the word impossible. It would go a long way towards opening the ears of those I would have to convince if there was visible, tangible effort on your part to correct what they see as an egregious error. The evidence we procured in Heigan’s lair was sufficient to force the Crusade to admit their guilt publicly or with silence. On Hallow’s End, myself and the newly forged Silver Hand will be sieging their fortress. I ask that you lend your strength to mine. Ride with me.
One of the cloaked individuals spoke up in a deep voice.
Cloaked Mage-Lord says: How can we trust the word of a princeling? The Alliance has stood as it has for hundreds of years. Any benefits we would gain by joining it would be counteracted by the oversights imposed upon us by the Kirin Tor. It would be a witch hunt.
Another mage-lord spoke up about the establishment in Stormwind, and another counted that the Kirin Tor would not agree with how they did things.
Novos the Summoner says: Joining the Alliance is unnecessary. Even if one sought to invade us, the protections in place would prevent them from finding us.
Kanrethad Ebonlocke says: Yes indeed, but seek of the inconvenience. While a full out assault is virtually unheard of, we are not disconnected. It would be terribly frustrating if they were to try to seek out our numerous operations, or worse yet, cut off our income of patrons and visitors.
Uther Menethil says: To say nothing of the sea of living nightmares to the north. You think you can hide from them? This is an army that has broken worlds. That’s not poetic. Whatever protections you may have here, I don’t think they’re sufficient to survive the world being cracked in half.
There was some deliberation before Madame Wayfair stood up.
Madame Wayfair says: Your Highness, would you be opposed for us taking a moment to deliberate?
Uther Menethil says: Not at all. I ride with or without you. I prefer the former.
Wayfair snapped her fingers, and Uther froze. Outside Uther’s bubble of time stop, he saw the mage-lords discussing in fast-forward. It was a lot of discussion, and there was some magic shot around, and others were dismissed or left, but then Madame Wayfair snapped her fingers and Uther was back.
She thanked him for his patience.
Madame Wayfair says: We, the mage-lords of Venetia, after lively discussions, have come to a conclusion. Given the state of affairs regarding the undead plague and the fact it was perpetuated by one of our own, and one other mage-lord absent from this meeting was partially responsible, it is within our best interests to be a part of the reconciliation of this incident. After much deliberation, we have decided to send an elite force to aid you. It would not do for us to reveal our hand. So sending several small armies would be against our best interests. Rather than any single mage-lord going to represent this force, like during the raid, the mage hunter’s guild will be the ones to represent. Each mage-lord may send up to five others to aid the strike team, and they will meet at an appropriate juncture. As for your invitation to join the Alliance, Venetia is not prepared to make such a commitment. But we will be interested in discussing things with the leadership of the Alliance in the future. At present, the status of the Alliance is… in far too severe a state of flux for us to seek to be a part of it. A sinking ship has little need for an anchor. Needless to say, I believe there is a future where that could perhaps be entertained, and I believe there are further deliberations between the mage-lords, Venetia, and the greater world. But you are right, the time of Venetia’s anonymity has come to an end. And regardless of what occurs, I do hope the young prince of Lordaeron will remember his words here, and likewise remember that Venetia is not a place that does not handle problems of their own.
Uther smiled.
Uther Menethil says: Very good! We’ll be neighbors no matter what, after all, but I do prefer to be on friendly terms.
Madame Wayfair says: I believe many here share such an opinion, your highness. Captain Belmont will rendezvous with his team. Worry not, I’ll ensure they find your beach heads. Any other matters, Master Menethil?
Uther confirmed there was not, and the meeting was ended so that Uther could return to Lordaeron. Madame Wayfair snapped her fingers, and Uther manifested in the gardens of Lordaeron castle.
While Uther was in Venetia, he also reached out to Signicious, Hedanis, and the others to get them in on creating an anthem for the assault. Sig was intent on helping because Vel was both in danger, and the elves were heavily involved.
Rumors had started to spread about the nature of the killings. One of the biggest rumors was that the elves were somehow involved, as the elves were not victims. However, there was another rumor that was perhaps even worse: rumor that the royal family was housing a green-skin assassin and some people believed they were sending the assassin to eliminate potential threats to their rule.
Gil worked with the refugees to try and do some outreach things, while Victor worked to fight back against the rumors that were spreading. Gil opted to take some stakeouts around the Scarlet barracks and counter potential priority contacts.
But it had not been unnoticed that the murders started the moment the Crusade was told to pull out and no longer help.
Remnii and Uther helped a great deal going into the regions to assuage people. Seria decided to try and get the vermin and other creatures in the city to report on anything interesting they have found.
Uther and Victor then busied themselves getting people to prepare for Hallow’s End and the celebrations associated with it so there was some sense of merriment and enjoyment in the dark time.
Remnii focused on talking to people to try and learn about the victims and if anyone saw anything while Seria continued to stealth around with her animal spy network to watch for anything suspicious.
There were two days of murders, but eventually they settled into teams and they noticed one of the Scarlet Crusade inquisitors at a tavern had been very vocal about the frustrations that they couldn’t do their work. He left to continue to the barracks, and a small number of them followed him.
But then there was a muffled sound as the inquisitor disappeared from the streets. The group ran forward and they swung into an alley. The crusader was being held by sword point by a cloaked figure. Remnii used [Mind Spike] on the assailant. She heard a low, guttural growl as the figure was impacted.
The inquisitor slipped from their grip and tried to reach for their stab. The cloaked figure looked back at them, and they saw a bright violet eye with a cheek covered in ritual scars.
In a flash, they were in front of Remnii, and there was a frenzy of blades that were etched with celestial runes. They glowed violet. However, before the figure could strike Remnii, Maraad slammed into the figure, and sent them hurling to the ground. The hood went down, and Remnii rallied the rest of the group over the telepathic link.
The figure tried to deliver a coup de grace on the inquisitor, but Maraad slammed into her. The assassin got back to her feet, grabbed a hearthstone, and disappeared. Remnii honed in on the connection via the mind spike.
It was the Scarlet Monastery.
And Remnii realized who the individual was. She had seen her before. It was Lillian Voss, the leader of Lordaeron’s spy agency that Jaina had sent into the Scarlet Crusade. Remnii told the group to gather. Maraad grabbed the crusader and healed him before ordering him back to the barracks.
They headed back to the castle. Jaina was also summoned, and Remnii relayed what had been found.
Remnii says: I’ve only seen her once, but she bore a striking resemblance to Lillian Voss.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Why would she do something like that?
Remnii says: Do her eyes normally glow purple? Do her blades bear celestial script?
Maraad says: And was she… like Velameestra? I did not detect a heartbeat from her.
Jaina put a hand to her mouth.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: No… no she wasn’t. What happened to you, Lillian…
Remnii says: I’m assuming they must have found her…
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: That explains why she didn’t respond. She’s an incredibly skilled agent, but the fact you saw her face… the fact the Crusade would do something like this… it’s a shame we weren’t able to capture her, but we know what to look for. We’ll ensure she doesn’t get away with it if she returns. I’ll have what’s left of LORD lock down our channels. We know how to cancel it. I hope there’s some way we can save her… if she’s been compromised… I guess we’ll have to add her to the list of people we need to help get out of there.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: So… they what… discovered her, killed her, turned her undead, and are controlling her?
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: We can’t know for sure, but I… I think that may have been the case. It makes sense. What better way to create strife in the absence of the Crusade’s hand than an undead assassin killing crusaders and sympathizers. They’re trying to cause a panic. They’re trying to turn public opinion against us and against the sin’dorei. And without solid evidence, if we accuse them, it just looks like we are defending ourselves. They would be innocent. Dammit. Okay. Well, if Mograine is going to play dirty, then we’ll need to ensure she can’t get away with it. Thank you. All of you. I don’t know how many people she would have killed.
Remnii says: For such darkness to be done in the name of the Light… I’m glad we and everyone else were there to help.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: What doesn’t make any sense is how they did this to her… if… if these crusaders have been dabbling in magics like this… I find it hard to believe they would have known how to do it…
Natalie Seline says: Perhaps they didn’t. But Velameestra is now in their custody, no?
Eyes turned to Natalie, and Jaina put a hand over her heart.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: In any sense…. I suppose we can… we can do what damage control we can manage. If she were to return now, we’ll now to prepare, but I find it hard to believe they’ll try it once it became evident she’s seen. Remnii, we need to ensure they don’t come for you.
Remnii says: We are near the end of this journey. If I must stay here, I will.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Thank you. Be careful, all of you. This may not be the only trick they have planned.
Everyone was dismissed. Remnii went after Uther, and she found him in the garden with the dragonleaf tree. Uther’s head was in his hands, but upon hearing Remnii’s voice he looked up, immediately attentive.
Remnii says: Much has transpired over the last week, if not more, I… you have been going the entire time. I wish to ask after you. Asking if you are okay seems incorrect. But how are you doing?
Uther Menethil says: Well… we are preparing four different wars and attempting to stop several others. Securing allies, combing the streets… all things considered, I’m doing very well.
He sighed.
Uther Menethil says: But I am tired. I can’t recall a time I’ve ever been more angry than right now. We were in the Shadowlands. And I wasn’t as scared as I am right now. Father abducted, Falric slain, the mother of my child abducted… and I have never felt so angry.
He stopped.
Uther Menethil says: One other time. One other time. I have felt this angry. We hadn’t met then.
Remnii nodded, actively listening, but she encouraged Uther to continue.
Remnii says: Do you find it frightening?
Uther Menethil says: There is so much outside my control. Our enemies hold Vel… the last time I felt like this, they took Arator. I watched him disappear through an open grave. Rage. Fear.
Uther looked over at Remnii.
Uther Menethil says: If I had one regret, it was what I did in the moments following Arator’s disappearance.
He had sat on the edge of the planter on a long bench. Remnii sat down next to him.
Remnii says: Would you tell me what happened?
Uther Menethil says: One of the enemies responsible for taking Arator we had as a prisoner. I hurt him. I knew he wouldn’t tell me what they had done with Arator no matter what I did. But I did it anyway. I burned his flesh. I hurt. He was the closest thing to who had hurt me. So I hurt him.
Remnii says: It does not sound like you found what you were looking for, did you?
Uther Menethil says: No.
Remnii gave a kind, but mirthless, smile.
Remnii says: Do you find yourself acting rashly now?
Uther Menethil says: Rashly? No. Years ago, had someone taken Vel, I would have mounted Radiant and gone after her. She’d scold me for it, of course.
Remnii says: Anger is a… it’s a bitter knife that cuts unevenly, yet when it is honed, it… it as a part of you can become a tool, as can anyone else. War will keep those tools sharp, far more than anyone should ever experience. But Uther, you are doing well.
She considered, and her eyes flickered over to Maraad, who was standing watch. He smiled at her.
Remnii says: I… do you believe you know how to live with this feeling? That pain that anger will cause? When it boils in your chest, and makes your head spin.
Uther Menethil says: I couldn’t tell you how long I would last. Because I know if I felt like this forever, I wouldn’t want to be that way.
Remnii says: You’ve come a long way from the time before I knew you. I wish no one to feel like that, yet… that bitterness is easy to stoke. I hope in these darkening and far too chilly nights that you will see who will rally to your side and all the good that can be done. Even today, we took a piece in return. We are moving. You are growing wise to yourself. I simply wanted to tell you I believe you are doing a good job–
Uther started to cry and then hugged Remnii. She cupped his cheek and held him as she stroked his hair. They sat while Uther cried for a while.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t think I can explain how much it meant to hear you say that.
Remnii says: I only hope to say what I see, and I also see you carrying much of this on your own. You are making great strides, but I… know something of carrying the flame into the dark and hoping that others are drawn towards it. Many torches make up the night sky, but I will help to carry yours as you have mine. You do not need to lose yourself to anger, but you will need to sit with the discomfort with it, as it’s an ugly feeling. Even then, you are bigger than one thing. Do you understand?
Uther nodded.
Uther Menethil says: I should really do that more often. It feels tremendously better after.
Remnii says: I cry all the time! But… may I give you one piece of advice? Or the potential for a confidante. Of course I will listen, but I… Maraad. His stories are his own to tell, but I do believe your experiences, in a way, could be a mirror of one another. I am no warrior, at least not in the conventional sense, but there is not much difference between a Vindicator and a paladin. You have both been through much. I could call him over if you would like. I simply…
Uther Menethil says: You’ve done more than enough, and you’re right about many things. We’ll be better able to help everyone if we are more rested, and we are doing a fantastic job. All that’s left is to continue doing that.
Remnii says: I hope so.
She looked drawn for a moment, but she nodded.
Remnii says: Even if a step is a folly, it will not be the last we take. But this though… we are going in the right direction.
Remnii sniffled.
Remnii says: Your Lordane winters do not agree with me, all in all. Would you care to head inside?
Uther Menethil says: I think so. Thank you again. I expect I will sleep much better this night than I have.
Remnii says: I hope you do. If not, you can throw some diamonds in my hands like Gil did! I believe that’s all for now.
They headed back inside to go to bed.
Gil talked to Rhonin about his concerns that Vel might be mind controlled like Lillian was.
Rhonin Windrunner says: Well… it’s really hard to just… there’s not a blanket way to lift these sorts of things. The nature of domination magic and enchantment magic is exceptionally varied. Unfortunately, it’s about as easy to have a blanket solution as it is to become immune to evocation magic. Every spell and ability and item works differently. For some of them, a good smack up the head is good enough, while others the only solution is to dispel it or kill the person or item… I don’t think there’s an easy solution, especially not with theoretics. If Vel… if Vel is in danger like that, the only thing we can do is adapt. There are certain effects that may be able to list that influence, but it’s not something we can just have on hand. Even restoration magic is limited, and only the most powerful of those magics has a hope to lift such enchantments. And it’s not exactly easy to pocket that sort of magic.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I was really hoping you’d tell me they had just adapted a spell from her, and you were working on a way to fix it.
Rhonin Windrunner says: I don’t know, kiddo. Vel’s spells are all about granting free will… if they reversed that, I don’t know if that’s an easy answer. I suppose if you were able to use that magic to counter it… to grant, theoretically, using that magic on a creature being controlled by a necromancer could perhaps overwrite it, but I don’t know if that would work, and there are a lot of factors, and it’s all theory. When it comes to magic, there’s never an easy answer. I wish I had a better answer, but all we could hope is that it’s not the case, and if it is… adapt. Regardless, don’t you dare give up hope on her.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: What? I would… I haven’t yet.
Rhonin Windrunner says: Good. If they did something to her, we’ll find a way to make it better. I wish I had a better answer than that.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: No, it’s better to know than not ask at all…
Rhonin considered for a moment.
Rhonin Windrunner says: Look, I don’t think it’s going to help, but it can’t hurt.
He pulled a ring from his finger and handed it to Gil.
Rhonin Windrunner says: This is something I developed for my archmage trials. It detects if the person wearing it is under the effect of a spell or magic that is circumventing their free will. Anything from minor charms to full out domination. It doesn’t detect everything, but magic it should. It also delivers a few shock. It can’t do it more than once a day, but sometimes that can snap someone out of it. I have a feeling, if anyone is going to find her, it’ll be you guys. Take this. Give it to her when you find her. If you suspect that there might be something going on, maybe this will help. Keep it. You or Vel. I can make another one myself. Officially, it’s a ring of charm detection, but I prefer calling it a wake-up call ring. That was too casual for the Kirin Tor.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: You know, you’d think a bunch of people who can change realty would be more fun.
Rhonin Windrunner says: It’s more that when it comes to the books they want it all prim and proper. Either way… it’s funny, I was inspired to make this because of, well, first because of what happened last year with the kids in Dalaran, but after that, I actually made it because of all the rumors about vampyrs. So um… if it could do some good, I think that would be poetic.
Gil smiled.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: We’re gonna bring her back either way.
Rhonin Windrunner says: Yeah. Yeah we will, and it goes without saying, but I’ll be there. If, or when, this all goes to shit, I want to be a part of this. I know she’d be the same. Hell, if I was in her position she’d have probably already tried to get me out.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I wouldn’t be surprised if she was putting her own plans into motion right now.
Rhonin Windrunner says: I hope so…
Rhonin gave him a sad, tired smile, and Gil approached to hug him.
Rhonin did also report back with translations of the pages from the journal. He explained Vel had been in contact with Arator since the group had returned to the Eastern Kingdoms. He explained she had hid herself until Arator confronted her and asked her to meet him in Lordaeron alone.
Liadrin had come to visit Remnii while she was staying in the castle. They sat and chatted for a bit, and Liadrin explained the Torchbearers were coordinating things. Lor’themar was also on the move, and he was mobilizing a large force of troops as ultimately Velameestra was a recognized ambassador, thus her capture was effectively a declaration of war. They turned focus on the weather, as Remnii was not doing well with the chill, but Liadrin admitted she found the snow beautiful, and she couldn’t wait for it to gather up in drifts again.
They waxed on everything that had transpired, and Liadrin admitted that she had a lot of people that kept her going. Like Salandria, the Torchbearers, Lor’themar, her people, and also people like Remnii as well, who, even after everything, still took time out of their day to share marshmallows and cocoa.
Remnii asked Liadrin if she could muse on something with her, and she went into the story of a girl that was raised by a high priest and who later found out they weren’t related. Remnii noted that it was a situation they both shared, and Liadrin’s eyes went wide.
Remnii says: If I did not have to consider who my birth parents were… I simply wanted to ask you how you felt? If that was okay?
Liadrin Everpost says: I learned when I was young. I did not have a long period of time where I believed Vandellor was my biological father. There were too many questions, and though I was an infant when my parents were slain, there were enough questions that shortly after I was old enough to understand, he told me. While I was very young, I remember being angry. I was angry that he hadn’t told me sooner, which wasn’t fair, because I wouldn’t have understood. I was angry that I wasn’t his child because he was so incredible and the fact I wasn’t actually his daughter made me feel like I wasn’t worthy of his love, that I was a cheap knock off. But worse than that, I was mad at my parents because they left me. It’s not fair for me to say that or have ever thought that, and I hope they know I don’t think that now. I know in another life, they would have wanted to be here. In time, I let that anger slumber. What mattered was not that I wasn’t related to him, it was that he chose me. When they found me after the raid, he could have left me at the orphanage. There was no reason he just decided to take me home. He could have waited or let someone else take me, but for whatever reason, he chose to love me. And for that, I can’t put into words what that meant. I don’t know what your situation is with your father, and I’m sure that from your words, your biological parents were no mere victims of an attack, but it’s okay to be angry. It’s a completely normal emotion. Anger, fear, doubt, there’s nothing to be afraid of, and at the end of the day, why do you think your father took you? Why do you think he raised you like his own?
Remnii swallowed, tears in her eyes.
Remnii says: I believe it was hope. Those I share blood with… they are dark, dark people. Much of the reason that Silvermoon fell, how this was orchestrated, was because of them.
Liadrin Everpost says: …Oh.
Remnii says: I was largely stolen. I was never supposed to be here. I was in stasis for a long time as my people traveled across the Great Dark. Had it not been for the crash on the orcish homeworld, I never would have grown up. I don’t believe he wanted to put me away, but I believe he wanted to solve the problem before I came into being. We did not have that chance.
Remnii explained a bit about Shaspira and Archimonde and the fact she was stolen from them, and it was Velen’s soulbonded mate that had given him the task of her.
Liadrin Everpost says: Remnii… are you afraid that your father only did this because of who you were?
Remnii says: After all he has lost, I stole his daughter’s life, and her name. I was not supposed to be Remnii. I do believe that myself is a task… I am written upon his soul because I was Nuuri’s dying wish. I do not think he does not care for me, but I do worry for the day he is afraid of me, and that I prove someone right. This is heavy. I’m sorry–
Liadrin Everpost says: No, don’t apologize. You need to talk about this, I can tell, and you should never fear talking to me about anything. May I share a story?
Remnii says: Please do.
Liadrin Everpost says: The former Grand Magister of Silvermoon, Belo’vir Salonar, was a man who loved birds above anything except Vandellor. Their relationship was unique. The two of them were very old. They had spent millennia together. In a lot of ways, he was like a second father to me. This was the same man who had reached out to another, younger magister. Whose father was a monster. Now… I don’t pretend to know exactly what happened, but that monstrous magister died in one of the worst fires that Silvermoon had ever seen. And that young man was alone. Just like Vandellor had taken me, Belo’vir had done the same for this young man. He still sees his father in himself, I think, despite everything. And one day maybe he’ll be able to see something else when he looks in the mirror, but for now he still sees it. I talked to Belo’vir a lot. Whenever he wasn’t telling me about birds, we discussed a lot of things. I asked him one day why he had chosen to take in this young man. He told me it was because of me. He said that the light kindled in Vandellor’s eyes when I entered his life was the most beautiful thing, and it was like the sun had kissed his soul. He said he had never seen that much happiness in my father’s eyes, and he said that he wanted to understand that light. He wanted to live in that same warmth that Vandellor had found, and when the situation fell into his lap, he took it. What I’m trying to say… I don’t know what may have led him to make the decision he did, and I don’t know Velen. I hope to, one day, but if he is half the man you have told me he is? I have to wonder what light you’ve kindled in his eyes, and what joy you have given him, because I know what you’ve given me, and it’s only been a year. So I can only imagine. I don’t think you stole his daughter, her name, or her life… I don’t think that’s the way he would look at it. I think they gave it to you. And I know that’s a heavy responsibility, but you are so much more than your blood, Remnii. I don’t care if your father was one of the architects of the Burning Legion, or if your mother was responsible for darkening the sun, that doesn’t change who you are.
She took Remnii’s face in her hands.
Liadrin Everpost says: You are Remnii. You are an amazing woman who has spent so much time, and so much of her love on so many people. Who has carried so much weight on her back, and will do so much more. And you are my dearest friend who will take the time to ask if you want marshmallows in my cocoa, and that is who you are. That is who you will always be.
Remnii blinked at Liadrin and started to sniffle.
Remnii says: It’s simply better that way.
Liadrin Everpost says: It is.
Remnii sighed and put her hands over Liadrin’s.
Remnii says: Thank you, Liadrin.
Liadrin pulled Remnii in and cradled her in her arms and kissed the top of her head. Liadrin promised she’d be there to remind her of what she needed as many times as she needed her to be. Remnii kissed the back of Liadrin’s hand, but was rendered largely speechless.
They moved away to see Liadrin off, and Remnii kissed her forhead, and then her cheek, but then as she pulled back, Liadrin pulled her back into a kiss, her expression just as surprised as it was receptive. Then they kissed again.
Meanwhile, far away from the capital, in one of the many chapels in the Scarlet Monastery. It was late, a few days before the deadline, and the Ashbringer was alone. He was kneeling, his mask on, reciting ancient prayers.
Arator Windrunner says: Light shine thy mercy upon me. Illuminate my transgressions that I might face them with eyes unclouded. Cleanse the sin from my soul and renew within me a spirit unburdened by darkness, that I might carry out thy will eternal. May my doubt be fled and my heart at ease in the Light of Creation.
He repeated the prayer, but then a single sound echoed through the halls. A raven’s caw. Arator froze and then looked around. His eyes fell upon a white raven. Arator got to his feet and slowly pulled his mask off and his hood down.
Arator Windrunner says: What…?
His eyes were wide. The white raven was perched on a windowsill, refracting some of the light of the glass. It flew down and landed on a nearby lit sconce.
Arator Windrunner says: Is that…? It can’t be… But that was… that was her… is that you, Vel? It can’t be… have I gone mad?
Mysterious Raven says: You’re not alone.
The raven spoke in a croaky, mimicked voice. Arator was speechless for a long moment, and he started to reach out toward the raven. But then he heard the sound of a door behind him. He turned to look, and Sally Mograine walked in. She gave Arator a soft smile.
Sally Mograine says: Arator, is everything alright? I heard you talking to yourself. Is someone here?
Arator looked back, but the raven was gone. He put his hand down.
Arator Windrunner says: No, no… I was just practicing my prayers. I thought I heard something, but it was… perhaps just some critter.
Sally stepped closer.
Sally Mograine says: I see. I wanted to check up on you. I know these last days have been difficult.
Arator looked down.
Arator Windrunner says: Have you made any progress?
Sally sighed.
Sally Mograine says: It is a slow process. The darkness has wormed its way deep in her soul. But if there is a way to save her, I promise you I will find it. Can I count on you to keep giving your prayers?
Arator nodded.
Arator Windrunner says: Of course. I… when we spoke, she seemed… so…
Sally put a hand on Arator’s shoulder.
Sally Mograine says: I know, that is how their ilk lowers your guard. It is a cruel practice, but one you have seen firsthand, my dear Arator. That was not your cousin speaking to you. That was the monster that has taken her face. Even if it speaks with her voice, we cannot trust the words it says. Not yet. But she may give us what we need, Arator. A way to help all of them. We never could have done it without you. She will be the first, but perhaps in time, we can help them all. Including your mother.
Arator Windrunner says: ...Of course. My soul is resolute. I will do what I need.
Sally Mograine says: I know.
Sally offered him a smile.
Sally Mograine says: I’ve interrupted your prayers enough. Please.
She turned to leave.
Arator Windrunner says: Wait… I’ve heard rumors from some of the others who returned. Is it true that you’ve… is it true that Uther is back?
Sally stopped.
Sally Mograine says: He is. I have reason to believe he somehow survived their ordeal. They all have. But they’ve been traveling with Velameestra for a long time, Arator. There was a rage in that young man. I fear how deep her claws may have wormed their way inside him. But never fear, I have faith that we will lift the monster’s influence on all of them.
Arator nodded.
Arator Windrunner says: Why didn’t you tell me when you first returned? Why didn’t you tell me about Uther?
Sally gave Arator a sad look.
Sally Mograine says: I did not know if the man I had spoken to was truly him. I needed to meditate and confirm his identity. But the Light has shown me it is no imposter. I am sorry I did not have the time to speak with you and tell you sooner, but I did not want to get your hopes up. If it turned out they had found a double to imitate your friend. We will do our work, and we will pray that he may be saved as well. But you must be prepared to do what you must.
Arator nodded.
Arator Windrunner says: Of course, Grand Inquisitor.
Sally shook her head.
Sally Mograine says: Arator, you know you need no such formalities when we are in private like this. And if there is ever anything troubling you, you know you have my ear.
Arator Windrunner says: I do. Thank you... Sally.
Sally smiled.
Sally Mograine says: Light be with you, Arator.
She turned and left Arator in silence. Arator looked back, searching for some sign of the bird that was there. Just when he was ready to convince himself it was a trick of his mind, he found a single white feather on the ground. He knelt down and picked it up, then gently hid it in his armor where no one would find it.
