Appearing Characters: Arator Windrunner, Arthas Menethil, Benedict Ashbury, Celestine, Darius Crowley, Elissa Cross, Halford Ramsey, Hiram Creed, Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil (Vision), Kala (Vision), Kel’Thuzad, Liam Greymane, Liiraluma, Lorelei Crowley, Lorna Crowley, Lyros Swiftwind, Nanovi (Vision), Rokhan (Vision), Romuul (Vision), Sazzmi Gentlehorn, Seria, Taldaram Evenstar (Vision), Talran Swiftwind, Tobias Mistmantle, Tol'vas Moonshadow, Toraliir (Vision), Uther Menethil, Vassandra Stormclaw, Velameestra Windrunner, Velhari (Vision), Vincent Godfrey, Vol'jin (Vision), Wrathion
September 14th (Evening)
Those that were going to undergo the Ritual of Balance gathered together before the druids. Uther and Arthas stepped forward first.
Vassandra Stormclaw says: You’ve borne witness to this rite on a few occasions now, Uther. But please, stand before me.
The druids again chanted the incantations and Uther and Arthas both went to each of the wells one by one. Arthas had an uneasy look.
Arthas Menethil says: Good luck.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t think we’ll need it, father, we have each other.
Arthas grunts and the two of them kneeled in the center of the circle. Uther started to feel the heat and refreshing chill of the waters as they seemed to drip down to his very soul. A cooling wave washed over him, and he blinked. When he opened his eyes, he was back in the chapel of Lordaeron. One of the old priests that would tutor him, Arator, and some of the other noble children closed the sacred text he was reading from.
Vision of Priestly Tutor says: That should be all. Thank you all for your wonderful insights, and remember to keep the Light with you. Remember, next week you’ll be required to recite your assigned scriptures. Don’t neglect them!
Arator and Uther were already standing to leave.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: What do you want to do now?
Uther offered a mischievous smirk.
Uther Menethil says: If we leave now, we can get the horses back to the stables before sundown.
Arator smiled nervously.
Vision of Arator Windrunner says: Are you sure it’s safe for us to go out on our own?
Uther Menethil says: No! I just think it’s going to be fun!
At that moment, Uther recalled he was supposed to do work for his magic tutor, Velameestra Windrunner, but he didn’t have another lesson with her for a few days still…
But he had time. He decided to go riding with Arator instead, and the days seemed to slip back. The sun rose and fell in rapid succession.
Then they were dismounting outside the chapel in Stratholme. It was the day he was going to swear his oath to become a knight of the Silver Hand. Uther stepped into the chapel, but the cathedral was empty. He looked around and scratched his chin. He felt his beard. It was himself now, not back then, and he then remembered everything.
The cathedral may have been burned now. There was a war. And a siege. He heard a voice from behind him.
Familiar Voice says: It’ll only be a few weeks, and we’ll reunite at Fort Crossing. When we get there, we can make our plans.
Uther turned, and mounted on Indomitable was Arthas. It was how he looked the last time before his disappearance. The conversation had not happened here, yet he was looking down at Uther.
Vision of Arthas Menethil says: If you and Victor go north past Stratholme and we go east, we can spread the word as fast as we can. Take care of everyone, alright?
Uther Menethil says: I should have gone with you.
Vision of Arthas Menethil says: What do you mean? I’m more than capable of handling myself, Uther. Lest you forget, your old man is one of the leaders of the Silver Hand! Besides, I’ll have Falric with me. If you’re worried about Calia, don’t, I’ll make sure she’s safe.
Uther opened his mouth to reply, but hesitated.
Uther Menethil says: No… I think if I had gone with you then, it wouldn’t have mattered. I wasn’t strong enough then.
Uther looked up at Arthas.
Uther Menethil says: I can’t change what happened. But I promise, father, I won’t give up. No cause is lost, so long as there is one fool left to fight for it.
Vision of Arthas Menethil says: That’s easy to say. But… what happens if you are the last one to fight?
A roiling fire washed over and consumed the city that Uther was standing within. Uther was now standing in the burned ruins of Stratholme. He blinked, and then he was in Quel’thalas. Fire burned as it rained down from the sky. There were emerald meteors piercing through structures which screamed with the voices of the victim and brave souls facing the orcish onslaught. Demons cleaved through the defenseless. Uther looked back, and he saw Jaina and the rest of his friends as well as the survivors that fled through the portal, but he looked out and he could hear the screams of those that couldn't make it. The demonic knight was stalking toward him, and all the people he couldn’t help or save were clambering beyond, searching for a salvation that wouldn’t come.
Jaina shouted for Uther.
Vision of Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Uther! We need to go!
The demonic knight brought her blade down, and he blocked it with his hammer. There were more people that didn’t make it. He remembered this moment, and what happened next. His body moved with its own accord, and he saw Velhari’s blade come down and spark off his weapon. Uther grabbed his hearthstone at the last moment to hold the line for as long as he could, and the faces of all the people he couldn’t save–thousands of faces–watched him.
But he knew there was nothing more he could have done. He had literally laid down his life. But he remembered the faces.
As the hearthstone pulled his form away, his blood seeping through his armor, he dropped to his knee, and he found himself in an unfamiliar field. The wound was suddenly gone, and he found himself standing alone on a battlefield. There were blades and bodies strewn all around. Across the field was a single figure, staring at him.
He didn’t recognize the figure, but there was a strange familiarity that defied his reason. He was an orc warrior clad with armor that was seemingly forged with black steel and blood, and his blade blazed with hellfire. He walked slowly towards Uther, his blade ready, and the sky was set ablaze above him.
The battlefield might have been somewhere in the Eastweald, but that didn't matter. What mattered was he was here, and so was this warrior.
Uther hefted his hammer onto his shoulder and ensured the straps of his shield were tight, and then he started to stride toward the orcish warrior. They readied their weapons, and the two warriors rushed at each other. The orc brought his weapon up for a strike, and Uther prepared to defend against the blow. The weapon streaked across his shield, which sent sparks that threatened to ignite the bloodied plains.
Uther Menethil says: What do you gain from this?
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: What I must.
The orc’s blade once again glanced across Uther’s shield.
Uther Menethil says: Look around you. It can’t be worth this!
The orc did not reply immediately, and instead struck again. More sparks flew.
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: What do you know of worth, human?
Uther Menethil says: I know if we could speak instead of fight, we’d find that there are more things we have in common than separate us.
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: And what if words fail you?
Uther continued to just defend.
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: When your blade is broken, when your shield is shattered?
The orc’s weapon broke straight through his shield. The fel fire burst from his blade.
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: What will you do when there is no option left but to fight?
The orc loomed over him, awaiting the answer.
Uther Menethil says: If you slay me, what’s next?
The orc said nothing, still awaiting the answer to the question he had asked.
Uther Menethil says: Will my death satisfy you, or will you turn your blade against those I am here to protect?
The orc still didn’t answer. The words shattered against him, and it was like he didn’t even hear them. The orc raised his blade, ready to deliver the finishing blow.
Uther Menethil says: if you will not see reason, then I must deliver justice!
Uther pulled back his hammer and swung upward to catch the orc on the chin. The helmet was sent sailing into the dirt. Uther stood alone in the field, with the figure laid out on the ground before him. Uther thought of all the people he sought to protect, and in the same moment, he knew the warrior was also fighting to protect the things he thought were worth protecting.
Uther Menethil says: Who is it that threatens those you love? Because I know it isn’t me.
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: No. And yet… the life you seek to protect… it does not accept. Not everything. What if those you seek to defend turn their blades upon one another? What will you do then? You have only one shield.
Uther Menethil says: Then I suppose it has to be bigger.
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: You are a fool.
Uther smirked.
Uther Menethil says: I’m inclined to agree with you. But I know the world I want to see, and I won’t stop fighting for it. There may be some differences… but I have a suspicion that what you want is similar to me.
Uther extended a hand to the warrior on the ground.
Uther Menethil says: I do not believe that you are my enemy.
The warrior reached up and took Uther’s hand, and Uther hoisted the orc to his feet. As he did, there was a weight on him, and as Uther turned, a thousand eyes were upon him. They were the eyes of all those slain, and their families, watching as Uther offered succor to the creature whose blade ended their own stories. There was malice, resentment, sorrow, and confusion, but there was the same from all the orcs that were slain about, their eyes flickering with the same emotions.
Vision of an Orc Warrior says: I may not be your enemy. But I am theirs. Every action requires sacrifice. Remember that.
There was rumbling in the clouds, and a gentle rain started to fall and dampen Uther’s hair. The vision began to fade away, and there was a strange blend of doubt and relief, hope and fear, and several seemingly contradictory emotions.
Uther’s eyes opened, and he was back, kneeling in the moonlit grass in the glade. Arthas opened his eyes at the same time and he shook his own head.
Arthas Menethil says: That was… strange. I don’t imagine people normally do this when they don’t remember their own pasts…
Tol’vas Moonshadow says: Well, to be honest, people only just started doing this.
Arthas grunted.
Tol’vas Moonshadow says: How do you feel?
Arthas Menethil says: Clear. I saw things I don’t understand. Things that I almost… like seeing things after the fog clears. I don’t remember everything, but it’s just… I saw people and faces that were unfamiliar, yet I still knew who they were. At the very least, if there was any doubt that I’m…
Arthas puts a hand on Uther’s shoulder.
Arthas Menethil says: Are you alright?
Uther nodded.
Uther Menethil says: Better than alright, actually.
Arthas Menethil says: Good! That means this thing worked.
Uther Menethil says: I’m glad we got to share this, father.
Arthas Menethil says: Yeah. Me too. We’re… we’re going to figure out how to fix this.
Uther Menethil says: Yes. I believe we are.
Vassandra and the Swiftwinds just smiled as they looked upon the pair. Arthas and Uther stepped away, and Seria stepped forward to take her turn. She drank from the wells, and she immediately felt the power of the ritual start to flow through her.
She too kneeled down and entered a meditative trance. The druids watched curiously, as she was a powerful druid from a different tradition from their own.
Seria was taken back to earlier days. They weren’t perfect, but they were happy. The visions flashed through her standing up against bullies that were picking on Rai, her listening to stories at her mother’s feet, and then through the countless times that Seria had seen how her mother was treated by the other trolls. She remembered the things that were said about her, about her choice, and about Seria herself. She remembered when their group of three became two when Zar’Kaa began to distance himself. She remembered feeling like she and her mother were alone, as if they were a different tribe, she remembered everything. She knew what happened, and where the story would lead.
This time, Seria saw the looks Rokhan gave Kala as they went their separate ways. Knowing what she knew now, Seria hated what she saw–Rokhan’s inaction–but she knew that nothing could be changed as it had already happened.
She saw the years that she and her mother could have had someone, and something, and maybe things could have been different, but she accepted that they weren’t. And she accepted that, for as much as it hurt. However, eventually the last day came.
Rai was missing. Seria knew that if she went looking for him, she knew what she’d find him doing, and what she would come back to. But it was just another day in the tribe. No one knew what was about to happen. Vol’jin was chuckling and smiling. She saw the bed where Rai’s mother was likely resting in the chieftain’s hut.
Seria was told by Kala that Rai had gone off somewhere. She suggested Seria go find him. Seria knew what would happen if she did.
If she stayed, maybe she could fight. Maybe she could save more people. Maybe she could save her mother.
Vision of Kala says: What’s wrong, Seria. You look like you have something on your mind. Is everything alright?
Seria knew she couldn’t change anything, and she instead chose to hug her mother and tell her that she loved her.
Vision of Kala says: I love you too, Seria. And I always will. Now go on.
Seria went off to look for Rai. She knew the way, and knew what would happen. She made her way to the glade where she had found Rai, where she had found the bony arms of Zalazane wrapped around his shoulder, the deal made.
However, Rai and Zalazane weren’t there. Instead, his back turned to her, was Taldaram, Seria’s father.
Vision of Taldaram Evenstar says: A part of you blames me for this, doesn’t it?
Seria says: You were never there.
Vision of Taldaram Evenstar says: So what? What would my presence have done? Do you think I would have made things better? Do you think I would have fixed everything just by being there?
Taldaram fully turned to face Seria.
Seria says: No.
Vision of Taldaram Evenstar says: You’re right. If I was there, you wouldn’t have anyone to blame all your problems on.
Seria charged forward and decked Taldaram right in the face.
Vision of Taldaram Evenstar says: The fury that burns inside of you… It will burn everything if you let it. Like a wildfire. What did you hope to accomplish by striking me?
Seria says: Payback for all the pain that you caused her.
Vision of Taldaram Evenstar says: Reciprocation. Vengeance. Or perhaps… justice. If there is anything that you should have learned from your druidic teachings, it’s that life is not always fair.
Seria says: I know that!
Vision of Taldaram Evenstar says: Then did you truly think a single punch would balance out your mother’s death? You’ll need to do more than that if you want to even the scales.
Seria took a deep breath.
Seria says: You’re not worth it. You never wanted anything to do with us.
Seria turned and walked away. The shadows grew deeper on her way back to the village, and her eyes opened. She was back in Tal’doren’s grove, surrounded by her friends. There were tears dripping down her face. Elissa went over to help Seria up and gave her a hug.
Elissa Cross says: Good job Seria!
Luma was standing watching the rituals. They pulled out a flask and took a long drink and then also stepped forward. They also took the drinks from the three wells and kneeled down.
When they opened their eyes, they were at their old workbench on the Mechanar, before everything. They were going through some of their old rituals, and they heard their dad’s voice.
Vision of Toraliir says: Luma, could you toss me that spanner over there?
They looked over and saw their dad underneath some crystal tech and was holding out a hand. Luma stared at their palm, suddenly aware of the fact that this was a vision.
Liiraluma says: Here.
Luma tossed the tool over. Their father was repairing one of the smaller devices that would be used on one scouting mission or another. Periodically, Tempest Keep would set down colonies to coordinate with across the stars. One of the groups were getting ready to touch down, and Luma’s family hadn’t considered going, but they knew what would happen if they stayed. The colony could use a good family of mechanics.
The thought came unprompted to their mind.
Vision of Nanovi says: Looks like things are in order for the next batch of colonists. We should be passing a suitable world. I’ll be sad to see some of them go, but I trust them to take care of things.
Luma’s mother had entered the workshop to start small talk.
Liiraluma says: What if we went?
Vision of Nanovi says: We’ve been aboard the Mechanar for so long, it would probably fall apart without us.
Liiraluma says: Yeah. Dumb idea to go, but also a dumb idea to stay, wasn’t it? One back water versus this backwater.
Luma looked around and started to poke around at the things on their bench.
Liiraluma says: Would you change your minds? If the Mechanar got… if Tempest Keep got ripped apart in a solar storm, do you have the confidence that we could have fixed it all?
Their parents looked at each other.
Vision of Toraliir says: We’d have to try.
Luma sighed.
Liiraluma says: What if trying isn’t good enough?
Vision of Toraliir says: You already know the answer. If you fail, you just try again.
Luma grit their teeth and their hands flexed.
Liiraluma says: I think you’re both better people than me. If you could see your son again, out there on the Genedar somewhere? What would you want me to tell him? Not that you wouldn’t be there. But you know.
Vision of Toraliir says: Keep up the good work.
Vision of Nanovi says: And remember to eat. Something I need to remind you about all the time too.
Luma sighed heavily.
Liiraluma says: I know you can’t hear me. I hope you’re one with the Light or whatever. But you won’t have died in vain. Along with everyone else.
With a very stiff upper lip, Luma approached their parents and placed one hand on their dad’s shoulder.
Liiraluma says: You told me to help the Exodar, and I did, and I want to say this once, but you should have gone instead of me. They could have done a lot better.
Vision of Toraliir says: Well, maybe we can?
When Luma blinked, the Mechanar rocked from an impact. It was during the battle. Draenei were rushing around and Luma’s father called for them to get to the Exodar, as it needed to get off the ground. Otherwise there wouldn’t be any hope for the refugees.
Luma spat on the ground.
Liiraluma says: What did I just say!?
There was a moment where Luma held onto one of their parents, but the hand dropped.
Liiraluma says: I think you should go. They are going to need a chief engineer first.
Vision of Toraliir says: Luma. You have the skill to do it.
Liiraluma says: I know I have the skill but you have more! You have the compassion they’ll need, you should go!
Nanovi put a hand on Luma’s arm.
Vision of Nanovi says: Why do you really want us to go?
Liiraluma says: There are lives that are worth more than mine.
Toraliir frowned.
Vision of Toraliir says: Don’t you ever say that about my child. How do you know things would have been better if we had survived?
Liiraluma says: They do not need people looking at the stars now. They need people… I made it! I know I did. I don’t need that reverse psychology on me!
Vision of Toraliir says: Liiraluma you are an artificer. You are a scientist. You are a problem solver. What are you describing to me?
Liiraluma says: The idea of a better draenei.
Vision of Toraliir says: Then make one.
Liiraluma says: That’s mean.
Luma points at their father.
Liiraluma says: Is that it then? Back to it?
Their mother smiled.
Vision of Nanovi says: If at first you don’t succeed…?
Liiraluma says: Get pissed and try again.
Luma sighed, and their parents faded away. They were replaced, along with the entire scene, with the wreckage of what little workbench Luma could make with the rest of the draenei. On Kalimdor. Romuul stepped into the shop.
Vision of Romuul says: Have you thought about what we spoke about earlier?
He was referring about the assignment of going to the Eastern Kingdoms.
Liiraluma says: Out of all the people, you want me to go and not some paladin? Maraad would be a good choice, but he’s glued to Remnii. Are you sure you don’t want a priest, a paladin, a paragon of some draenic upstanding… something?
Vision of Romuul says: Liiraluma, you’re one of our most gifted artificers.
Liiraluma says: I’m sorry for that.
Vision of Romuul says: For what it’s worth, sometimes I am too.
Luma laughed.
Vision of Romuul says: Look, I know it’s not the obvious choice, but I think it’s a good idea.
Liiraluma says: Fine. Brother. How weird. Two only children have a sibling. But… why?
Vision of Romuul says: Because you’re a problem solver. A good one. And this world has a lot of problems that need to be solved.
Liiraluma says: All Azeroth has been so far is a matryoshka war. There’s a war inside of another, inside of another, until it becomes as big as the planet. Are you sure you want me to set another match in that blazing inferno? Shouldn’t you send someone healy or… nice?
Vision of Romuul says: They have Remnii for that.
Liiraluma says: She makes my teeth hurt. She’s nice… but I think that’s the problem.
Vision of Romuul says: You need to stop comparing yourself to her. Because that’s what you’ve been doing. You need to stop comparing yourself to all of our people. To her, to me, to mother and father.
Liiraluma says: Fuck off.
Vision of Romuul says: There are a lot of ways people can approach things. There are a lot of solutions that can be found. But you have a perspective… that is different from most. But that doesn’t mean it’s worse.
Liiraluma says: I did not like your solution then, and I’m still struggling to find any joy in all of this.
Vision of Romuul says: Well, if at first you don’t succeed…
Liiraluma says: Fuck you.
Luma laughed half-heartedly.
Liiraluma says: I know I came here to solve a problem of inherent unhappiness… I thought I would like walking on the ground more than I actually do. But will it be where I am needed?
Vision of Romuul says: I think so.
Luma sighed.
Liiraluma says: I’m here. By unpopular demand or not, I’m here. That’s going to have to be good enough for now.
Romuul nodded, and Luma rolled their eyes.
Vision of Romuul says: There’s nothing wrong with looking up at the stars. Just don’t trip.
Liiraluma says: Heh. Too late.
Vision of Romuul says: Good thing you can stand back up.
Liiraluma says: I don’t have time to build another leg.
Romuul turned and left the workshop. Luma watched him go, and sighed heavily. The rite began to fade. Luma sniffled, but they did not cry as they opened their eyes.
Liiraluma says: Fuck.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You look like you’re feeling something.
Luma scoffed and stood up as they wiped the dirt from their knees. Vassandra handed Luma some water.
Liiraluma says: I am feeling feelings, I’m a draenei.
Luma uncorked their flask and chugged the rest of their drink, then took the water that was offered. The words “I’m a draenei” echoed the lingering thoughts in their mind.
Liiraluma says: Well that’s done. I never want to do it again. I don’t know about balanced.
Vassandra Stormclaw says: Everyone goes through the process in a different manner.
Liiraluma says: I am grieving, right here.
Luma pointed at their chest. Vassandra gave them a stern look.
Vassandra Stormclaw says: Then it’s working as intended.
Luma scoffed and rolled their eyes. They put a hand on Vassandra’s shoulder and nodded at Tol’vas.
Liiraluma says: That was an experience. Thank you very much.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: A good one?
Liiraluma says: I don’t know yet.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Take your time.
Liiraluma says: I will.
Luma steadied themselves.
Liiraluma says: I got to say goodbye to my parents. I appreciate that. I do not believe I will see them again.
Vassandra Stormclaw says: Elune’s gifts often work in mysterious ways. But I’m glad we were able to give you this. Loss can be difficult. We continue our work.
Liiraluma says: Good luck with the rest.
The draenei found Seria in passing and extended a drink to her.
Liiraluma says: Here you are. Fuck all this. It’s some night elf stuff. If you want to commiserate or brood in silence, come on down to my room that I’m assuming took the place of Remnii’s… room.
Luma shrugged.
Liiraluma says: You coming?
Seria says: I… guess so.
Luma called out to the rest of the group if they wanted to join them.
Tobias Mistmantle says: I did mine last week, can I still…?
Liiraluma says: I don’t think a week is enough to digest that.
Elissa decided to join the gathered group in the manor to ensure no one got excessively sick.
Late that evening, Vel was dreaming. The first spell she directed toward Wrathion, and the dreamscape unveiled into her normal snowy, forested grove with the spectral mana wyrms snaking around the winter-touched trees. A moment later, the youthful visage form of Wrathion appeared. He smirked and spun around to greet Vel.
Wrathion says: Velameestra! Pleasure to hear from you again.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Wrathion.
Vel returned to the greeting.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I appreciated the warning about your contact being my cousin.
Wrathion says: Ah! So you did meet him then! I thought it would be a pleasant family reunion.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Indeed. Nothing quite like the shock of seeing a family member return from the dead in the middle of an isolated kingdom.
Her voice had clear sarcasm in it, and Wrathion chuckled.
Wrathion says: I’m glad you were able to find him, and that he was able to find you.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I wanted to double check something with you.
Wrathion says: Hm?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Do you have a second contact in Gilneas?
Wrathion says: Another one? No, I’m afraid not.
Velameestra Windrunner says: So the name Hiram Creed isn’t familiar?
Wrathion says: No, it isn’t.
Velameestra Windrunner says: He knew your passphrase.
Wrathion says: What!?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Galadin informed me that he spoke with Creed. That he knew your passphrase, and that he was helping.
Wrathion says: The only people I’ve informed of that phrase are you and him. There’s no reason a third party should know it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well then. Unfortunate. I should also inform you we were able to confirm one of the agents is a drakonid.
Wrathion says: Is that so? You need to approach this with the utmost caution. This Creed fellow may be the target we’re looking for.
Velameestra Windrunner says: That was my suspicion.
Wrathion began to pace back and forth.
Wrathion says: I’ll do what I can to look into it, but I would suggest caution when dealing with him.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m always cautious. Unfortunately it’s unlikely I’ll be able to coordinate with you again before we make our move, given the anomaly.
Wrathion says: Right… that does make things rather difficult. In either sense, I’ll keep looking into things on my end.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Do we know if there are more of them, or is it just one?
Wrathion says: I’m unfortunately uncertain. That’s why I sent Galadin there in the first place. To ascertain how many operatives there may be.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll keep my eyes peeled then.
Wrathion says: Wise.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Though…
Vel tilted her head.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I did want to cover one additional, small piece of ground with you.
Wrathion says: Hm?
Velameestra Windrunner says: You’re cunning. I can appreciate that. And I’m more than willing to help you in your pursuits given they serve our mutual purposes… but given it is my cousin under your employ, I do want to make one thing very clear, Wrathion. If you use him, or betray him, you’ll need to deal with me. Understood?
Wrathion says: Understood. For what it’s worth, I apologize for keeping that bit of information from you if it caused you any amount of displeasure.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I don’t like surprises.
Wrathion says: Duly noted. And, if it’s any consolation, I do consider your cousin to be a valuable ally!
Velameestra Windrunner says: As far as you’re concerned, he’s the most valuable ally you have right now.
Her eyes briefly flashed magenta, and the tips of her fangs were just barely visible behind her partially parted lips.
Wrathion says: …Understood. I… will endeavor not to allow any other surprises to creep out of the woodwork, Velameestra.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Appreciated.
Her eyes had returned to their icy blue color, though there was definitely an imperious and dangerous air about her.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll be in contact once we’ve dealt with our… problem.
Wrathion says: I look forward to hearing of your success! And, once again, I do offer my sincerest apology.
It was clear that Vel had managed to shake him somewhat.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Accepted. Sweet dreams, Wrathion.
Wrathion says: You as well.
Vel ended the dream. However, she reached out with a second dream, this one directed toward her cousin, Arator. It materialized into the same dreamscape that she had been using, which was the tranquil grove in the Tirisfal Glades. Several of the trees were covered in resting white moths, but unlike the other dreams she had sent, the snow-white hawkstrider was not resting in the alcove beneath the central tree that dominated the majority of her dreamscapes.
Arator appeared like he always did.
Arator Windrunner says: Here again. Hello?
Where she was hidden up in the trees, Vel transfigured herself into the form of a snow-white raven–the same colouration the hawkstrider had–and fluttered down into the clearing with a gentle caw. Arator chuckled quietly as he saw her.
Arator Windrunner says: Is that you, my friend?
Vel cawed again.
Arator Windrunner says: You’re a fair bit smaller than last you brought me here.
He held out a hand for the raven to hop onto his arm, and she did. She nuzzled her beak under his chin briefly, but then took off again and alighted on a nearby branch on the edge of the clearing. She turned and cawed at him again.
Arator Windrunner says: Are you trying to lead me somewhere?
Vel cawed once more, and she took off down a path through the trees in small flutters, landing on each branch as she waited for Arator to follow her. Arator looked around, but he started to follow her. As he walked along the path after her, the dreamscape started to gradually shift, and it turned into a replica of Ashenvale as she had seen it when she passed through it on Kalimdor.
Arator walked half-turned around in awe as he took in the new sights.
Arator Windrunner says: Where… is this place? It’s quite beautiful.
Vel continued to lead him through various places she had seen in Kalimdor. Many of them were different parts of Ashenvale. There was a moonwell in one of the scenes, glowing softly in the roots of a large and ancient tree. Arator passed through all of them, taking in as many of the details as he could before he looked up at her again.
Arator Windrunner says: Spirit… if you’re trying to tell me something… I’m not sure I understand.
Vel stopped on the branch of one of the trees and peered down at him. She croaked out a simple statement, using the natural mimicry abilities of the guise she had attained.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Not alone.
Tears immediately started to form in Arator’s eyes, and he dropped to his knees and started to cry. Vel immediately fluttered down to her cousin to comfort him with her presence. She landed on his shoulder, her head close to his face as they sat in silence aside from Arator’s quiet cries. Eventually, he regained his voice and his composure.
Arator Windrunner says: I don’t know… what I’ve done to draw such kindness, my spirit friend, but… thank you. It is easy to feel alone in these dark times. Will you show me more of these beautiful places? They remind me of… happier times.
Vel nodded and took off again. The next scene that unfolded was the beautiful winter wonderland of Winterspring outside the blue dragon nursery she had visited with Telagos. The night continued, and he took in all of the scenes with wonder, but there was clearly a weight on his shoulders.
Silent questions were written on his face: I wonder what Gil would think of this place? I wonder what Vel would have thought of this place? I wonder what Uther would have thought of this place?
He said one last thing of note as the evening was coming to an end, as she perched on his shoulder again.
Arator Windrunner says: Spirit… I don’t know if you’re just some figment of my dreams or… a ghost. But if you see my family on your travels, please watch over them, like you’re watching over me? I don’t know if you’ll see them… but please show them this kindness?
Vel made a noise of affirmation, and Arator thanked her as he scritched under her chin. The sun came up with the morning, and Arator watched her fly off as the dream faded into reality.
September 15th
The next morning, the group gathered together with the rest of their companions to make a game plan.
Liam Greymane says: So. With the aid of your magic, we should be able to make it back to Greymane Manor quickly, right?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah.
Liam Greymane says: Crowley, can you gather a small group of your compatriots? I feel it’s wise for you to explain the circumstances directly. The other nobles won’t be happy, but we’ll need to make it clear what our intentions are. Now that we’ve seen this ritual can indeed give Gilneans a fighting chance, we should be capable of turning the rest.
Liam looked at Luma.
Liam Greymane says: Miss Liiraluma, how has the conceptualization of this device been going?
Liiraluma says: Well, I have two ideas.
Luma pulled out a series of crystalline vessels that were currently holding water.
Liiraluma says: One of these has a release where the person who throws it could detonate it strategically, but then again getting misted with this shouldn’t affect people that have the… situation? Question is if you want a detonator or a pin pull?
Liam Greymane says: The less manpower the better, so if something can be automated… however we can get the widest spread with the least danger to ourselves.
Liiraluma says: If we want something for a bigger radius, I believe I can do that.
Liam Greymane says: I am putting this in your clearly capable hands.
Liiraluma says: I believe my people have something… if we can drop it down from the sky and create a mist, I believe that will be worthy. But, if you need me to explain it, I’ll get a presentation together.
Liam Greymane says: I believe it will take time for us to coordinate between Crowley’s men and my own. I believe we could do that in a week or so. We can take more time if needed, but that would give Alpha Prime to respond.
Liiraluma says: You’ll have what you need.
Tobias Mistmantle says: I’ve got a question. What are we going to do with the girl? We kind of smuggled her out, didn’t we?
Tobias gestured at Lorelei.
Liiraluma says: Does anyone have a disguise kit? Or will the illusion be down by then?
Velameestra Windrunner says: The illusion is permanent until I dispel it. But I can always place another illusion over Lorelei and make her look like someone else.
Liam Greymane says: What should our approach be as far as her identity?
Liiraluma says: I understand this is delicate, but Lorelei is the princess if she wants it? Isn’t that a higher station than what’s his nuts?
Liam Greymane says: It would simply mean we would be revealing our deception.
Liiraluma says: It will come out eventually, but controlling how that comes out may be worthwhile.
Lorelei Crowley says: Vel, can you get me back into the cell?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes.
Lorelei Crowley says: if you can just bring me back in, we can make it look like I was never gone. Then ideally you can secure my freedom through more diplomatic means.
Liam Greymane says: That… is an option. Perhaps one of the safest options as well.
Velameestra Windrunner says: When I get you back in I can just dispel the illusion before I leave.
Liiraluma says: And here I just wanted to tell them to fuck off.
Liam Greymane says: Well we can still do that.
Liiraluma says: Heh! No no, that’s probably the better way.
Liam Greymane says: Sneaking her in so they never knew she was gone in the first place would at least prevent us from generating more ire. But I’m more than willing to come out with the truth if you’re comfortable with it?
He looked at Lorelei.
Lorelei Crowley says: Yeah. If it helps I’m as ready as I’m going to be.
Liam Greymane says: Very well. Then we’ll come clean about the situation, and we’ll simply have to put our foot down. Darius, can your men be ready to mobilize on the city when the time comes?
Darius Crowley says: We’ve been ready for a while, we’re just glad we’ll have some backup. Tobias, I’m leaving that in your hands. Get everyone ready. Anyone that is able and willing. Anyone else, we’ll stay here in the forest for now, but we can move if we need to.
Sazzmi Gentlehorn says: If you’re willing, I’d be more than willing to help… I know you don’t have any reason to trust me, but I have my own reasons to want to get some payback on these worgen. The Alpha Prime ones! I understand if you don’t trust me, but I can help. I can either stay behind here, or I can join the forces going toward the city. Or I can just… stay out of the way. Whatever you think is best.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: In my opinion, you’ve been pretty good at keeping the forest safe so far.
Sazzmi Gentlehorn says: Right! I’ll make sure nothing happens to anyone that stays behind!
Sazzmi looked at the others for approval.
Liam Greymane says: Seems a fine strategy. If you trust her with watching hte civilians, then I trust your judgement. But do know, demon, should you try anything, you’ll be answering to me as well as the druids you seem to fear so much.
Sazzmi nodded hurriedly.
Liam Greymane says: Good. I’m glad we have an understanding. Is there anything else we need to address before we make our departure?
Velameestra Windrunner says: There… actually is something it may be wise to speak of here, given the disturbance should prevent any unwanted eyes.
Just to be on the safeside, she also flicked open her lantern of revealing, and noted there were no scrying sensors present.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was able to speak with my contact about the black dragon situation. While I’ve gotten word that Hiram Creed seemed to be operating as one of his associates, my contact had never even heard of him. I understand he’s an ally to you.
Vel’s eyes flicked over to Darius.
Darius Crowley says: You think Creed’s a spy? I mean, one not for me?
Darius flashed Liam an apologetic glance.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Correct. There’s been drakonid activity with the ettins. An ally of mine had been sent to look into the supposed draconic agent operating in Gilneas. We do still need to verify if Creed is actually the draconic agent, but right now all signs are pointing to him.
Liam Greymane says: How do you want to approach this? You are the expert on this particular infiltration.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Carefully. First we need to see if we can identify him as the drakonid. Try to verify if he is shielded from divination, and if not, we may be able to see his true form.
Vel looked over to Seria, given her access to spells that could do so.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Barring that, we’re going to need to try and figure out what his motivations are and where his loyalties truly lie. And what he’s attempting to do here. We will need to be cautious. He told us he has people planted in the wolf cult.
Darius Crowley says: Damn. He’s better than I thought he was.
Liam Greymane says: For the time being, we’ll entrust you with this investigation. The rest of us will act accordingly. But if you find ineffable proof, don’t be afraid to move on it. You can always try to speak to him frankly and discern his true identity.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m… hesitant until we have a better grasp on the situation. If he feels he’s backed into a corner… those of the black dragonflight are known to be rather volatile.
Liam Greymane says: Fair enough. Even so… Creed has done a great deal of good for our people. As much as I’m inclined to believe your suspicions, it’s only fair of us to give him the benefit of the doubt until he’s proven guilty. I urge you to be… cautious in your investigations. The situation may not be what it seems to be. Even so, we need to figure out something before the attack. If he is a plant, that chaos could spell doom for Gilneas.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll make it one of my top priorities. Mister Ramsey, if you wouldn’t mind offering your expertise on that front?
Halford Ramsey says: Of course, my dear!
Velameestra Windrunner says: I can also arrange for some reinforcements in the assault. At least… if you aren’t opposed to skeletons.
A lot of eyes immediately turn to Vel.
Liam Greymane says: So the horses weren’t just for show then?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well I wasn’t lying. They were just illusions. But I have certain expertises… and I’m sure there are abandoned farmsteads that were attacked by the wolf cult.
Ramsey pushed up his glasses.
Halford Ramsey says: Forgive me for the…
He cleared his throat.
Halford Ramsey says: Sensitive question, but is not necromancy a forbidden art as far as Dalaran is concerned?
Velameestra Windrunner says: It is… though I’ve received some advice on how knowing how to break rules better enables us to pursue those of similar minds. Laws do little to stop people.
Her icy eyes hovered on Ramsey, as it had been him that had suggested fabricating the divinations to make it look like Lorelei was Tess when they spoke with her in the dungeons.
Liam sighs.
Liam Greymane says: I mislike the sentiment, miss Velameestra, but I understand where you’re coming from. Nevertheless, we could use whatever tools we have at our disposal. I don’t know much about magic, and what is taboo to the Kirin Tor is not relevant here. They aren’t aiding us, you are. If you believe this magic can give us an edge, then I’ll trust you.
Velameestra Windrunner says: The more hits the bodies of beasts can take, the fewer Gilneans will fall.
Liam Greymane says: …you’ll only be animating the corpses of beasts?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Of course. I don’t utilize sapients.
Liam Greymane says: …I see! I must admit that I…
Velameestra Windrunner says: You believed I was going to raise Gilneans.
Liam Greymane says: I did, yes.
Velameestra Windrunner says: No. I do have my lines, your majesty.
Liam Greymane says: Well, there should be no problem then. I… wager.
He glanced over to Celestine and the druids.
Celestine says: The line between life and death is a peculiar one. I’m… not opposed to such magics, so long as they are not mistreated I don’t see any reason as to why we should forbid it. Though I can’t speak for the rest.
She looked over at Tol’vas and the night elf druids, who were all frowning sternly.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You don’t plan to… keep them, do you?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Of course not. They will be dismissed and allowed to return to their rest once their purpose is served.
Vassandra Stormclaw says: I can’t say I condone such… perverse magics to be wielded. But… this is not our land.
She looked at Liam.
Vassandra Stormclaw says: If you believe this a wise course of action, we will only advise you caution. Velameestra has clearly proven herself an ally of those who safeguard nature. So long as she continues to do so, you will see no action from us. We were sent here to aid the Gilnean people, not impose our own rules upon them.
Celestine says: If it would not be too much, miss Windrunner, would you be opposed to me accompanying you when you go to do these rituals?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Of course not.
Celestine says: Very well. I would like to see more of your magic in action.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: As for our end, I intend to entreat in the Dream. I have no doubt the guardians there know what’s going on, and I have a few friends.
Liam Greymane says: If you are able to recruit more allies from this… realm, we would certainly be honored to fight alongside them. The old ways are strong in this place. If the spirits wish to fight–real spirits–
He glanced over at Sazzmi.
Liam Greymane says: We would be remiss to deny them an opportunity to strike back at Alpha Prime and his ilk.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: One other thing… which I suppose I need to seek permission seeing this is your land and all. But there are still worgen sleeping over there.
Liam Greymane says: More of your people?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: More of my circle.
Liam Greymane says: The same ilk that Alpha Prime first raised to become the Wolf Cult?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: We were not as united as Alpha Prime would like you to think.
Liam Greymane says: Those were the ones that remain slumbering?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I would need to speak with them and see. And perhaps help some of them regain their senses.
Liam Greymane says: With the ritual you created… very well. As I said, any allies we can get, and war has already made for strange bedfellows. If some of your kindred still slumber, it would be unfair of me to deny you from waking them. I just urge you caution to ensure they are trusted and will fight alongside us… even if the politics of our nation are beneath your goals. If there is any aid your old circle can render, please. It seems we have a battle plan. If we’re lucky, our own people will rise up against Alpha Prime when they are exposed to this water in a rapid and… widespread manner.
Liiraluma says: Heh. You got it.
Liam Greymane says: With that, I suppose we’re prepared to return back and explain the circumstances.
Prior to departure, Uther took Liam aside to speak.
Uther Menethil says: This certainly isn’t the easier topic to approach, but I think one of the things that comes with being a prince is dreading the moment you have to take the crown, because of what else it means. It’s been a short time, but it seems to me that you’re hoping once this Alpha Prime business is resolved, your father will take his place as the king of Gilneas?
Liam Greymane says: I… well, yes. He’s the king. He’s ruled our people for many years. This curse has him in its grip, yes, but with Tol’vas’s ritual we can bring him back.
Uther Menethil says: True. And do you believe the nobles will be pleased after everything his actions have put them through?
Liam Greymane says: No… I suppose they won’t.
Uther Menethil says: And your people? The Gilneans themselves?
Liam Greymane says: They… they’ve been through a great deal. First the Northgate rebellion, then all of this. Even so, this is my father we’re talking about.
Uther winced.
Uther Menethil says: I know. Perhaps better than anyone you could possibly be having this conversation with. It’s not easy. People in our position have responsibilities to the people that look to us for guidance. Your people need a king, Liam. And after everything that has happened, I don’t think your father can be that king.
Liam nodded.
Liam Greymane says: You’ve given me a lot to think about, Uther. I appreciate your candor. I can’t say I’m comfortable with the idea, not truly, but… I will remember the words you said, and I’ll try to do better. If there’s one thing you’re absolutely right about, it’s that I’ve been acting a king, but I haven’t felt like a leader. This entire moment I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to rescue my father… after I saw the ritual I already started to take the crown off, but I need to see our people through this. What comes after will be difficult and complicated, but you raise some very valid points. I’ll think on what you said.
Uther Menethil says: Very good! Perhaps less on the grand stage of royalty, something else that may be relevant for you personally… before we came here, I spoke with Lord Godfrey.
Liam Greymane says: Is that why you came to speak with me?
Liam smiles.
Uther Menethil says: It wasn’t a non-factor. Like most men his age, he is mired in tradition, which isn’t inherently a bad thing… but he loves his country, and he loves his king. In terms of reconciling a peace between your people that have not been afflicted with the worgen curse, and those that have, he does represent an obstacle. That being said… call it a hunch, but I believe a patriot like him would have faith in his king. Thank you for taking the time to listen to me, Liam.
Liam shook his head.
Liam Greymane says: Thank you for sharing your wisdom, Uther. You have a fair bit of it for your age.
Uther Menethil says: It’s been a long… two years? Eighteen months? Difficult to tell. Time gets confusing when you travel to a place that it passes differently.
Liam Greymane says: I feel your journey will get stranger from here.
Uther Menethil says: I suppose it would be terribly boring, otherwise.
Liam Greymane says: I yearn for a boring life, wouldn’t that be nice? Especially now that I find myself a father.
Uther glanced toward the south.
Uther Menethil says: Perhaps a boring life wouldn’t have been so bad… but because I can withstand tumultuous times like this, I’m glad it was me, and not someone else.
Liam Greymane says: Well said.
Uther Menethil says: We have some preparations to make.
Liam Greymane says: I have speeches to practice. Several, in fact.
Uther Menethil says: You’ll do well.
Liam Greymane says: That means more than you know, my friend.
The group gathered together again. Crowley, Celestine, and Ramsey were going with them, and Tol’vas opened up the path again after they got beyond the region of the disturbance. They stepped back into the outskirts of Greymane Manor.
Lorelei got herself ready and transformed into the form of a worgen.
Lorelei Crowley says: This feels… lighter than before. Strange. Alright Vel, I’m ready to play the part of prisoner again.
She looked at her parents.
Lorelei Crowley says: Don’t forget about me.
Lorna Crowley says: You’ve got to be kidding me.
Lorelei grinned and Lorna hugged her.
Lorna Crowley says: I’ll see you again soon, once this is all sorted out.
Vel teleported with Lorelei into her cell and dispelled the illusion, then turned into mist and seeped out of the cell again to rejoin with the group. However, Liam stopped outside the gate.
Liam Greymane says: Actually… I think there’s another way we should do this.
He turned to Crowley.
Liam Greymane says: Crowley, can you control when you take your worgen form?
Darius Crowley says: I think so. Why do you ask?
Liam Greymane says: Because we’re trying to make a statement. That may be the best way to do it.
Darius Crowley says: You sure about this?
Liam Greymane says: No, to be honest, but if we’re going to do this, we’re going to do it right.
Crowley smirked.
Darius Crowley says: Alright your majesty, we’ll play it your way.
He looked over to his fellow worgen.
Darius Crowley says: You heard the king. Consider that an order.
Crowley and the other worgen with them transformed into their worgen forms. Tol’vas also shifted into his own worgen form.
As they approached, the guards started to panic and call for the alarm to be sounded, but Liam ordered them to halt the order.
Liam Greymane says: Belay that order! They’re with us. You touch that alarm and I’ll see you in the stockades!
Greymane Guard says: Aye, your majesty. Are you certain?
Liam Greymane says: These beasts are your countrymen. Stand down.
The guard nodded and ordered for the gate to be raised and they entered the settlement There was no small amount of a ruckus, and Godfrey and the other nobles were quick to meet in the front courtyard.
Vincent Godfrey says: Your majesty, what is going on here?
Liam Greymane says: Godfrey, I’m glad you’re here. We need to speak immediately.
Vincent Godfrey says: Speak!? Liam, you’ve returned with a pack of monsters! Led by none other than a rebel who tried to destroy this kingdom!
Crowley growled.
Darius Crowley says: I’m more than willing to bury the hatchet, Godfrey! We’ve got more important fights than the rebellion that Genn started by abandoning his people. Now take your hand off your pistol unless you want this to get ugly!
Liam Greymane says: Crowley. Please.
Darius Crowley says: …Right.
Vincent Godfrey says: You think you have these monsters chained, Liam? This man was three seconds from pouncing and tearing my throat out.
Liam Greymane says: Enough, Godfrey. Gather the council, unless you’d prefer to speak here in front of everyone.
Godfrey stood up straight and pushed his glasses up.
Vincent Godfrey says: Very well, your majesty. Let us convene to more… private, locales.
Liam Greymane says: Citizens of Gilneas, there is no reason to be alarmed. I understand this is confusing, but all will be made clear in time. These worgen are our countrymen. Our family. Our friends. They are no threat. I beseech you, as your king, to place your faith in me for the time being, until that trust can be earned.
There were some whispers, and people were watching, but there were no riots. Godfrey and his fellows were clearly not happy, and Godfrey was debating to demand Liam to plead his case in front of everyone, but thought better of it.
Vel noted there were people that had slipped away and were talking. She leaned over toward Uther.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Uther. I’m going to have little to offer this meeting. I’m going to keep an eye on things.
Uther Menethil says: You trust me to take care of my duties, I trust you to take care of yours.
Vel nodded and slipped away as the rest of the group entered the manor. Hiram had a small smirk on his face, and he sidled up next to Liam.
Hiram Creed says: Well, your majesty, I expected news, but this is unexpected.
Liam Greymane says: I’m glad you’re a fan, Creed, we’ll need all the allies we can in the weeks to come.
Hiram Creed says: Of course, your majesty. Pleasure to see you again, Crowley.
Crowley grunted as they entered. Seria had used [True Seeing], and she didn’t see anything strange about Creed, but she also didn’t see any scrying sensors.
Vincent Godfrey says: Alright, Liam, would you care to explain what the devil you were thinking parading worgen and known separatists through the last bastion of Gilneas with no warning?
Liam Greymane says: To put it frankly, Godfrey, it’s because it’s what we need to do. As I said, in the weeks to come, we’ll need as many allies as we can. Proud Gilneans will be a part of this.
Vincent Godfrey says: Proud Gilneans, Liam? You paraded the monsters that have hunted us into our borders, on the eve of a full moon nonetheless. Have you lost your mind?
Liam Greymane says: No, Godfrey. In fact, I’ve done the opposite. As we said previously, the elves working with Tol’vas have created a ritual that can give our kinsman a chance to reclaim who they are. These people have done just that. I have witnessed this ritual firsthand and can confirm it’s not dangerous. It’s a trial of the mind, yes, but it is one our people are strong enough to endure, and the rite itself was created with notes from our very own late court alchemist. This is not a cure brought upon from afar. This never could have been without the help of we Gilneans and one of the most brilliant minds Gilneas has given birth to. Though he is now passed on, his knowledge has paved the way for us to reclaim our nation. And these people have risked their lives to help make this a possibility. This won’t be an easy change, but we owe it to them to give them the opportunity to prove themselves to be proud Gilneans. Or are we to turn them away? To fill them with lead and steel? And bury countless more in the process?
Darius Crowley says: Look here, Godfrey. We’re about as happy with all of this as you might expect, but we’ve begun to come to terms with all of this. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that we all got a beast in one of us. Some of us just have one that likes to come out once a month. Or more, I suppose. I know you’re frightened, and I know you’re no fan of me. But I’m as much of a Gilnean as you are. And I’ve never turned my back on our people. The same can’t be said for you and Genn. You cut us off and left us to die in the Troll Wars, and when we dared raise a finger, you and yours spurned us. Left us to die, eaten by the worgen. This is what we are now. The kinsmen who you turned your back on. But now I’m here, shaking hands, with the son of the man who consigned my people to die, because I’m a bigger man than that. Because I have to be a bigger man than that. Because if I don’t, then there’s not going to be anything left of Gilneas. And I’ve got people who I want Gilneas to be around for. So you can fuck off with your beast shit. Everyone can be a monster, Godfrey. As far as I can see, there ain’t no monsters in here. Prove me right.
Godfrey sighs.
Vincent Godfrey says: In spite of everything, Liam… the man who you are breaking bread with is still a separatist. He and his people stood against the king. Your father! Surely you can’t–
Liam raised a hand.
Liam Greymane says: I can, and I have. I understand why my father erected the wall. He did it to keep the war out, and his mistake in, but we’re dealing with that mistake and the families it tore apart. We have other wars to fight. And so as acting king, nay, as king of Gilneas, I hereby pardon lord Darius Crowley and any that sided with him during the Northgate rebellion. Once we are in a position to do so, we will speak of reparations, but now is not the time. Can you accept that provision, Master Crowley?
Darius Crowley says: Of course, your majesty.
Liam Greymane says: This is a time when Gilneas needs to stand united, or it will fall. There’s an additional piece of information that has come to pass. This war is dangerous. Many of us in this room may not survive the siege to claim our home from Alpha Prime, so it is only right, that as king I name an heir. In case the line of succession ends.
There were murmurs and Godfrey narrowed his eyes.
Liam Greymane says: To that end, I will announce to all of you here and now that the lawful heir to the kingdom of Gilneas is Miss Lorelei Crowley, daughter of Lorna Crowley and of myself.
Godfrey stopped and was clearly thinking.
Vincent Godfrey says: The imposter… in the oubliette.
Liam Greymane says: Information has come abroad that she was mistaken. She was not Tess Greymane, but she was, and is, a princess of Gilneas. As such, she will be released from her bindings upon the conclusion of this meeting. Are there any objections?
A few people looked toward Godfrey, and Uther also looked at Godfrey with a pleading look.
Vincent Godfrey says: Liam. You understand what this means, yes? You understand that you are cursing all of Gilneas with this future? These worgen… if we accept them into our lives, what will happen? What will our children become? How many generations will it be until all of us are marked with this… this inner beast? Before our humanity is called into question?
Uther Menethil says: What makes a human? What are the qualities necessary to be considered humanity?
Vincent Godfrey says: That is not for me to decide, boy. In a hundred years, when we are all gone, and our children’s children are walking with fangs and claws… and people fear what they might do?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: isn’t that what you’re doing right now?
Vincent Godfrey says: No. I’m not. I’ve seen what these worgen are capable of. We’ve all seen it. How long until Lordaeron, Alterac, Stromgarde… turn their blades on us in fear. Is that a life you want for your children? For your children’s children?
Uther Menethil says: It sounds to me, Lord Godfrey, that you’re aware that humans are capable of what you fear the worgen are. It isn’t even the worgen that you’re afraid of. You fear being treated the way you would treat the worgen.
Vincent Godfrey says: Perhaps I am. Perhaps I always have been. I’m glad… your majesty, to see that you are… taking your role as king seriously. No further objections. This is the path Gilneas is doomed to tread, then I can only hope it treads it with its head held high for as long as possible.
He looked towards his fellows, and no one spoke up.
Liam Greymane says: It is settled. We will coordinate with the Northgate faction of worgen in the Blackwald. One week from tomorrow, we will begin the assault on Gilneas City, and we will take the fight to Alpha Prime. In that time, Liiraluma is using their own artifice to concoct a weapon that will disperse this ritual across all of the Gilneans. We hope that this rite will, at the very least, sew chaos and discord and give our kinsmen a fighting chance to break free. There will be more orders given when the time approaches, but until then, find every man and woman able to fight, and prepare them. Get as much silver as possible. Take it from anything you can find. We will need it if we are going to face this threat together. This is the beginning of a new age for Gilneas. I am proud to be one of its architects with all of you, and I thank you for placing your trust in me. I promise it will not be misused.
Shortly after, the meeting was adjourned, and the nobles went out to spread the orders.
Meanwhile, Vel was outside snooping. She had transfigured herself into a rat so that she was better able to eavesdrop on various conversations. She was looking for any signs of unrest that would indicate the beginnings of conflict considering the arrival of the worgen in the settlement.
There was a lot of confusion and fear. But then she saw one of the mages that operated under Godfrey. She was looking around, actively seeking eavesdroppers, but then she approached one of Ashbury’s men.
Godfrey Loyalist Enchantress says: Spread to your men. Full moon’s tonight. Operation Silverfall.
Ashbury Loyalist says: Are you serious?
Godfrey Loyalist Enchantress says: Deadly. Godfrey gave the order before the meeting. Get your men ready and await further instruction.
Ashbury Loyalist says: Bloody hell…
Vel took an assessment of the situation as the mage and Ashbury loyalist parted ways, and she decided to follow after the Ashbury loyalist, as the mage seemed to be more keen and suspicious. The Ashbury loyalist went to various other members of Ashbury’s guards.
Ashbury Loyalist says: Operation Silverfall tonight. Godfrey’s orders.
Ashbury Guard says: Does Ashbury know about this!? He’s going to be furious!
Ashbury Loyalist says: Doesn’t matter. We’ve gotta make a move.
Ashbury Guard says: I’ll tell the other boys. Anything else we should know?
Ashbury Loyalist says: Await further instruction. There’s a few details that need to be sorted out. I’m going to report to Ashbury after that meeting.
Vel continued to tail the loyalist, and she saw a great deal of silver bullets, weapons, and chains being passed out. She heard other conversations as she scurried by.
Concerned Ashbury Loyalist says: Are we really supposed to take all of them out? Crowley brought a whole bleedin’ pack of them here!
Ashbury Loyalist says: The mages have some secret weapon they’re going to use. Trust in them and have your silver ready. And shut up. We don’t want the other kingsmen hearin’.
After the meeting had adjourned, Vel tailed the loyalist to Ashbury, who was actually with Godfrey.
Ashbury Loyalist says: Lord Ashbury. Lord Godfrey.
They entered a quiet, secluded room where they could talk.
Ashbury Loyalist says: Master Godfrey, operation Silverfall is underway…
Godfrey put up a hand.
Vincent Godfrey says: Belay the order. I’ll inform the others. Operation Silverfall is not happening.
Ashbury Loyalist says: Are you certain?
Vincent Godfrey says: Yes. I am. This… is what defeat looks like, gentlemen.
Benedict Ashbury says: Are you certain? Godfrey, this is…
Vincent Godfrey says: No, I’m not certain, but Ashbury you were in that room when I was. What would I achieve other than galvanize the masses against us? We’ve lost. I’ve lost. Perhaps Gilneas will lose as well… aid the king. Make sure his plan succeeds. Gilneas will need… strong countrymen like you and yours.
Benedict Ashbury says: And what of you, Godfrey?
Vincent Godfrey says: I’m going to take a walk. Clear my mind. A ride has always done wonders to raise my spirits when things look grim.
Vel continued to follow Godfrey as he went to inform his people, including the mage that Vel had seen before.
Vincent Godfrey says: Operation Silverfall is canceled. Avail your talents to the king and the rest of Gilneas to ensure that things are handled. I entrust them to your care.
Godfrey Loyalist Enchantress says: What of you, my lord?
Vincent Godfrey says: I’m going for a ride. Perhaps the traps caught something else.
Godfrey headed over to his horse, mounted up, and rode through the gates. Vel shifted into the form of a raven and flew after him.
Liam had started spreading the word and went to go and ensure Lorelei was freed. Luma started to busy themselves in working on the device that could spread the ritual waters to the worgen.
Vel continued to follow Godfrey as a white raven as he approached the cliffside that overlooked the ocean. He dismounted and looked out over the sea, but then tilted his head toward the raven, as he had seen her.
Vincent Godfrey says: I didn’t want an audience, but I suppose it’s good you’re here… you can ensure the horse gets back.
Vel landed on the ground and then shifted back into her elven form in a waft of mist. She stood with her hands behind her.
Vincent Godfrey says: Ah. The elf girl.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Lord Godfrey… what are you doing?
Vincent Godfrey says: I should think it’s obvious.
Velameestra Windrunner says: …Why?
Godfrey said that he had bled and wept for Gilneas all his life, and that he couldn’t now watch his country go in the direction that Liam had proposed. He was a tired old man, and he was done fighting.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Lord Godfrey, what is it that you love about Gilneas?
Vincent Godfrey says: …I love her resilience. I love her independence. I love her strength.
Godfrey continued to explain small aspects of Gilneas’s rich history and their connection with Kul Tiras, as the entire nation had originally been founded and colonized by Gilnean settlers. He went on to say that, in some regards, Gilneas was a bastion to humanity and everything it meant to be human.
Vel questioned what about Gilneas that he loved would be changing, as her people would still be resilient, strong, and independent, and even with the direction Liam had chosen, Gilneas still was clearly going to truly be Gilnean.
Godfrey shot back that he didn’t expect an elf to understand what humanity meant, as she was different from them, and he also stated that she in particular seemed to be more different than most–implying that he had likely caught on to some of the traits about her that were more abnormal.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Do you know the name Windrunner, Lord Godfrey?
Vincent Godfrey says: I know it’s a military family and one of your military leaders hails from the house.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Indeed. Windrunners have always defended Quel’thalas. It is in our blood, much like Gilneas is in yours. Even now, while our home burns, we have not stopped fighting for Quel’thalas and her people. That is our legacy. Just as you have made Gilneas yours. Don’t abandon Gilneas now. You have spent your entire life fighting for her. Protecting her. Now is the moment that she needs her people–she needs you–the most.
It soon became obvious that Vel’s words were not reaching the old man, and he instead turned toward the cliff-face again. He bid Vel farewell, and said that his horse would be of great use for what was to come, as he was well bred. Vel, however, had subtle-spelled a [Wall of Force] and was grasping the spell in the fist in the hand clasped behind her. As Godfrey turned toward the cliff again, she released the spell and entrapped him in an invisible dome of force.
Godfrey hit the wall before he could reach the cliff. He didn’t turn around.
Vincent Godfrey says: Drop this mysticism.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Not until you give me your word that you’ll return to the manor.
Godfrey rounded on her, clearly incensed.
Vincent Godfrey says: Why? Why won’t you just let me die?!
Velameestra Windrunner says: One, unfortunately I will not be able to take your horse back. Most beasts are not fond of me. I’m afraid the moment I approach he will simply take off. Two… because you said you valued Gilneas’s humanity, and in these changing times I believe it’s important for there to be someone who will remind them what that means. Liam trusts you. He values your insight, even if there are points he disagrees with. He’s expressed that many times.
Godfrey shot back that he didn’t have the strength nor the resilience to keep fighting, and Vel countered that it wasn’t all on his shoulders. Gilneas was strong together, and he could rely on his king and his countrymen for as long as they could rely on him. Ultimately, they were stronger together.
Vincent Godfrey says: I won’t allow some elven witch to tell me my life is worth living! Liam is strong! He can handle it.
Godfrey pulled his gun from his belt and pointed it at the invisible barrier toward Vel. He fired several times, but the bullets all harmlessly glanced off the magic, and he finally drew the gun back and pointed the barrel up to his throat.
His finger was on the trigger, but his hand shook, and he couldn’t bring himself to pull it. With a final cry of frustration, the gun fell to his side and he dropped to his knees, defeated.
After a moment, Vel released the wall of force and approached Godfrey. He didn’t move, and she slowly bent over and picked up the tophat that had fallen from his head. She brushed it off and placed it back on his head, and then offered him the glasses that had fallen from his lapel. He took them and put them back on his nose.
Vincent Godfrey says: …There are a lot of preparations that still need to be made. I am unsure if there is enough time for us to appropriately prepare. Gilneas may still be doomed.
Velameestra Windrunner says: She may be. But she’ll go out fighting. And that’s when you’re allowed to die.
Godfrey scoffed at her and got back to his feet. He dusted himself off and approached his horse.
Vincent Godfrey says: I’ll hold you to that.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I have no doubt.
The nobleman glanced back at her and pushed his glasses back up the bridge of his nose before he mounted the horse and started to ride back toward the manor. Vel stood watching him go for several minutes.
Kel’Thuzad says [telepathically]: That... was bold and reckless of you. I would have just let the old man die. But that... is why you are a better person than I am.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: I had nothing to lose beyond the risk of a few bullets. I couldn't in good conscience just let him.
Kel’Thuzad says [telepathically]: No doubt his insight will be a valuable asset, even if he proves to be a problem down the road. I admit you made the right choice, even if it wasn't the easiest one.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Right choices seem to rarely be.
Now satisfied that Godfrey was returning to the manor, Vel faded into mist that once again took the form of a white raven, and she took off into the sky to fly back herself.
Godfrey returned to the manor and set about speaking to his people. The mage that Vel had seen before appeared quick shocked that he had actually returned.
Godfrey Loyalist Enchantress says: Master Godfrey. You’ve returned?
Vincent Godfrey says: I have. And we have a great deal to prepare for. I don’t want to see any of you slacking, am I clear?
Godfrey Loyalist Enchantress says: Sir!
As Vel flew in as a raven, Godfrey saw her and shot her a glance, but he said nothing more as he set about organizing his people. When Vel reconvened with the others, Tol’vas asked where she had gone, and Vel replied that she had needed to stop someone from making a poor decision.
Tol’vas commented the response was vague, but he decided not to push the issue further. Uther, however, did.
Uther Menethil says: Vel, what happened?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I… followed Godfrey to the cliffs overlooking the sea. He was going to throw himself off the edge. I… convinced him to reconsider.
Uther looked at Vel with his mouth partially agape for a long moment before he approached and pulled her into a giant, squeezing hug.
Uther Menethil says: Thank you.
