Characters
Major
| Supporting
| Minor
| Antagonists
| Mentioned
|
---|
- Gilveradin Windrunner
- Liiraluma
- Uther Menethil
- Velameestra Windrunner
|
- Revil Kost
- Teemo Manabrake
|
- Bazil Thredd
- Gilnid Gearbreaker
- Helix Gearbreaker
- Mardigan
- Surena Caledon
- Valeera Sanguinar
- Varian Wrynn
- Yorik "Smite" Sharpeye
|
- Ariden Sha'ol
- Duncon Ratsbon
|
- Aegwynn
- Anduin Wrynn
- Archesonus
- Daval Prestor
- Edwin VanCleef
- Kathra'natir
- Katrana Prestor
- Laith Sha'ol
- Medivh
- Wynn (as a handmaiden)
|
December 9th
As the group waited for Vanessa to return, they decided to assess various things in the Deadmines. Vel slipped into a crevice and transformed into a rat and scurried off to find out where rats were congregating. She was able to find them without much difficulty, but some of the rats appeared to be somewhat dodgy.
One of them suggested that she stay away from the larger gangs of rats as it was dangerous out there, but they offered to let her tag along with them as they knew the area and what places to avoid. Vel agreed to come along, and she listened to them chatter about the region of the Deadmines. Apparently there was a strange “light” that caused rats to disappear when it manifested, though it was clear the beasts had no idea what it was beyond that. A few sleeps ago was the last time the light was seen, and they had to replenish their numbers after as it was important to strike the perfect balance between being large enough the other gangs wouldn’t mess with them, but not big enough to become noticeable.
It was a peculiar arrangement.
As she watched some of the rats and other vermin, she noted that they were also quite bold and didn’t seem to be hiding from the people in the Deadmines. In fact, it seemed like the people had more-or-less given up on doing anything about them. If someone dropped something from a table, rats would scurry out and immediately claim the morsel before the person that dropped it could bend over.
A recruit attempted to swat at a rat with a broom, but the rat immediately scurried up the broom and instead bit his hand. The other Defias laughed at him, and one pulled out a pistol and just shot the rat.
The Defias looked at the newer recruit and commented that the rats wouldn’t get scared away with a broom, they had to take more decisive action. The recruit seemed to be flabbergasted. However, Vel saw the larger groups of rats hanging out where resources were readily accessible, and that was where the smaller groups of rats stayed away. It seemed like they were hanging closer to the docks and the water.
It was not a healthy rat population, however. There was famine and disease, and most of them at least had malnutrition. A lot more rats were dying than normal, and yet the population was still much larger than it should be. They happened upon a dead rat and the “gang” Vel had picked up with immediately beset upon it to consume it.
There also appeared to be abnormally large rats, but they were staying well out of sight.
The gang continued to walk about, and she noted that her group was a bit less bold than some of the others. She rapidly took control over the group, as the most intelligent one, and she gave the group an all clear to rush to another barrel. However, she heard a voice in common say “I got you!”.
It was a bright light, and the other rats started to scream as holy magic washed over them. However, as it receded, she saw the rat gang was already dead. A human leaned down to look behind the barrel to see if there were any others. He had a red bandana over the lower half of his face, and he had a crew cut of strawberry blonde hair and weathered eyes. He had a holy symbol in his hand.
She recognized the man. It was Revil Kost, the priest that was with Karlain’s son. And sure enough, Mardigan appeared soon after. Vel opted to try and hide behind the barrel, and the man stood up to move away, having, supposedly, not seen her.
Vel attempted to sneak around to get elsewhere, but at that exact moment, Revil Kost swept down and grabbed her up in his hand.
Revil Kost says: Got you!
He held her up and looked at her.
Revil Kost says: There’s something different about this one.
Vel started to panic because of the fact he had grabbed her, and she promptly sank her fangs into Revil Kost’s hand. The man called out in pain and immediately dropped her, as he was actively bleeding through his glove from the nasty bite.
Revil Kost says: Ugh! Mereldar’s grave that hurt!
Vel darted back into the shadows and escaped.
Revil Kost says: Dammit! It got away. What *was* that thing.
The man grunted again as he examined his injured hand. He attempted to heal it, but not all of it repaired due to the necrotic nature of the bite.
Mardigan says: Are you alright, mister Kost?
Revil Kost says: Yes… but whatever that rat was, it wasn’t a normal rat. This wound isn’t healing. Whatever foul darkness that is lingering in this place has bred some truly wicked creatures. Let’s return to the chapel and I’ll take a closer look at this.
Mardigan and Revil turned to return to the chapel.
Meanwhile, Uther set about teaching the Defias the rules of Hearthstone Battlegrounds. However, he heard some raised voices from one of the tables, and he politely excused himself from his own table to see what was going on. There seemed to be some sort of disagreement over rules, and they had fully drawn knives. However, Uther cast [Calm Emotions].
Uther Menethil says: Easy, easy friends! You’ll get blood on your new cards! What’s the problem here?
One of the men explained the other had accused him of cheating and threw insults about his sister. The other man said that he absolutely had been cheating, but admitted that he was out of line with the comments about his sister, and he didn’t know why he got so heated about it. They thought they should probably take a break.
Uther offered his sympathies as tensions were high, and the situation seemed to be largely resolved, as everyone in their vicinity was also magically compelled to chill out.
However, when Uther returned to his own table, it appeared something had changed. The people were not talking as much, and they seemed to instead shift in demeanor. A few of them left after the game ended. Uther glanced at those that remained.
Uther Menethil says: My apologies if I’ve done something to offend.
One of the men, a young, handsome man with slicked back hair, spoke up as he leaned over with a cocked head.
Duncon Ratsbon says: What, you don’t like it when people aren’t eating of your hand? I see what you did to the folks at the other table. You put them under some sort of enchantment, didn’t you?
Uther Menethil says: I see.
Duncon Ratsbon says: You think we didn’t notice that? What did you say your name was?
Uther Menethil says: Angus. But, truth be told, gentlemen, I’m a man of the cloth. Is the Light ill-received here?
Duncon laughed.
Duncon Ratsbon says: Look around you, Angus. This isn’t a place the Light reaches. What good has the Light done for us lately?
Uther Menethil says: Stopped two men from stabbing each other for one thing.
A few other men snickered, but Duncon shot them a look.
Duncon Ratsbon says: Well listen here, Angus. We’ve already gotten one wannabe priest scolding people for not obeying their rules, we don’t need another one. You want to play your games down here and give us something else to do, that’s one thing. But why don’t you keep those little virtues to yourself and not push them into others’ hands, yeah? You do that, and maybe I’ll keep what I saw between us.
Uther Menethil says: I appreciate that, friend. I’m not interested in proselytizing. Just doing the most good I can. Now! Mechs, demons, murlocs, and… dragons!
One of the men whispered to Duncon that the two lads were good ones and it would have been a waste if they ended up dead, and Duncon took a drink, but agreed.
However, there appeared to be a lot of tension and mistrust, both toward each other, and towards those that used magic. Uther looked around for someone that was alone he could talk to, and he found a man with shoulder-length hair that was partially slicked back. He had his bandana on his arm, and it seemed he had been watching Uther.
Uther Menethil says: Everyone seems so tense! Has something happened?
Watchful Man says: You that surprised? We’re wanted criminals. If a single member of the Stormwind military caught wind of where we are, we’d all hang for it.
Uther Menethil says: I imagine that would create a sense of shared survival, but everyone here seems worried everyone else will turn on them.
Watchful Man says: We’ve been on edge. Things have been difficult lately. VanCleef gone isn’t making it better. Ain’t much spare coin around to buy drinks.
Uther Menethil says: Supplies that low?
Uther handed the man a drink as he took a seat.
Watchful Man says: Aye. We might not have to wait until Stormwind finds up before we start hanging. The noose is tightening. Winter is here, and supplies is low. Some of the folks here don’t come from good backgrounds. Desperation calls for desperate measures. They won’t take umbrage from stealing with their own people if it means they survive. Bazil Thredd. I was vice guildmaster of the guild before we left.
Uther Menethil says: What caused the schism?
Bazil Thredd says: Differences of opinion. Not even the old guildmaster’s reputation means that people follow him without thinking, not that he’d want them to. But. Now he ain’t even here. Some of the boys are saying he turned his back on the Brotherhood and left us for dead. I don’t want to believe them, but it’s hard to know what to believe around here. Edwin always said we can’t bring change to Stormwind if we don’t get our act together, but it seems we’re falling apart more every day. I don’t know if there will be much of us left at the end of this.
Uther Menethil says: An unfed army is fighting an enemy before the battle even begins.
Bazil Thredd says: Aye. It’s an impossible choice. Either we attack now and die in a blaze of glory… or we try to survive the winter and we starve here in a hole. Either way, can’t say tomorrow is looking too glamorous.
Uther Menethil says: The disagreement between VanCleef and Wrynn. How much of that is a factor in the unease?
Bazil Thredd says: Certainly didn’t help morale. Varian… he’s a king who had a lot of respect, from the guild or otherwise. Years before, he always had respect for the guild. When the Brotherhood was formed… a lot of good men joined because of him. Former soldiers and guildsmen both. It was too good to be true. I thought we’d get some real change. They say… the Wrynn line is the last blood of Arathor. They say the Lothar name lives and dies with them. None of us could pretend what those warlords were like unless we were an elf and we were around to see them, but Wrynn’s reminding me more of one of those old conquerors now than he did when he sat on the throne.
Uther Menethil says: Conqueror? In the ability to inspire his men, or in the subjugation type of way?
Bazil Thredd says: Inspiring yes, but the bloodthirst he’s been speaking of… the hate he holds for the crown he used to wear… it might be stronger than anyone else in the Brotherhood, and that’s something. Some here learned to hate the crown before they learned to walk. If you asked me, it seems part of him took some sort of pleasure in waging war against his own kingdom. Maybe it’s a hunch.
Uther Menethil says: It certainly doesn’t sound like the Varian I’ve heard of.
Bazil Thredd says: You said you were a man of the cloth. You with the clerics of Northshire? What brings you out here?
Uther Menethil says: I hold deep my faith in the Light. I tended to find myself at odds with the people who were in charge of the institution itself. A few too many become consumed with that feeling of righteousness the Light can provide.
Bazil nodded.
Uther Menethil says: When the people in charge started to impede my ability to help the people around me, I decided to take a pilgrimage of my own.
Bazil Thredd says: A noble mission. Lets hope it doesn’t swallow that light before you get where you are trying to get to, aye?
Uther Menethil says: Forgive the response, but I have faith.
Bazil scoffed and took a drink.
Luma asked if Teemo wanted to see if the goblins wanted to meet the Fuck-bot 5000, and Teemo laughed and agreed they could see if they could get some tools to give them a tune up. It seemed the goblins were working on guns, cannonballs, and shredders.
Teemo asked if there was space to do maintenance on the “harvest golem”. A goblin with no hair asked her to repeat, and she did so. The goblin directed her at some tools and told her to stay out of the workers’ way.
Luma and Teemo quietly flirt for a bit, but Luma suggested they try to get a read on Blackfuse’s opinion on the situation. Teemo explained the organization was a notorious mercenary company, and she had never even seen them before, but they didn’t come cheap. An outfit of the size they were seeing wasn’t an easy sum of money. They debated on what to do to get info, and it wasn’t either of their choice, but it was decided Teemo could maybe try flirting.
Teemo ultimately laid it on thick after she pulled her shirt down low and wrapped her coat around her waist. It seemed the first guy they had spoken with was one of the Gearbreaker brothers, Gilnid Gearbreaker, and the one Teemo had found was another one by the name of Helix. Apparently the money was coming from none-other-than Varian Wrynn, and Helix started to push Teemo for what she was doing down there, and she explained she was a freelancer and didn’t do any work for any cartels.
Helix looked Luma up and down.
Helix Gearbreaker says: Quite an interesting mechanism. Mind if I take a closer look?
Teemo Manabrake says: Oh, no no. She’s pretty particular about who does maintenance.
Helix Gearbreaker says: If you don’t mind, I insist.
Teemo gave Luma a look. The goblin had a long ponytail and messy white hair, and he was sleeveless and in workman’s garb. He approached to take a closer inspection. He reached out toward Luma’s fleshy arm.
Helix Gearbreaker says: Interesting. This don’t feel like any straw-stuffed mech I’ve seen before.
He looked at Luma, and then at Teemo.
Helix Gearbreaker says: Listen, I don’t know what hassle you’re trying to pull, but I know what illusions are. Now, unless you want me to get my brother and explain to him about what might be going on, I suggest you start talking. Capisce?
Liiraluma says: Right now it’s easier for me to move around this way. I’m not from around here.
Helix Gearbreaker says: I’m starting to pick that up.
Liiraluma says: I’ve been working on something. And I could use the parts.
They produced the cockatrice-maimed bot.
Liiraluma says: I was going to start there. I’ve never seen so many goblins in one place, and I’m working by the seat of my pants.
Teemo Manabrake says: We did need to borrow your workspace. It was just… a slightly different machine. You’ll forgive me for telling just a little white lie, won’t ya?
Helix Gearbreaker says: Woah. Now that’s something else. Is that Dark Iron tech in there? How’d you get your hands on a piece of work like this?
Liiraluma says: An exiled Dark Iron thought he could pull one over.
Helix Gearbreaker says: Huh. Alright.
Liiraluma says: We’ve had an adventure.
Helix Gearbreaker says: Lets make ourselves a little deal here. You hand over whatever this is right here, and I’ll give you unlimited use to our space as long as this mission is go. I’ll even vouch for you to my brother, and explain about your whole little shindig here. You could drop the illusion if you want too. Hang out au naturel.
Liiraluma says: I don’t see why not.
Luma shrugged.
Helix smiled.
Helix Gearbreaker says: That’s what I like to call a mutually beneficial business arrangement. I’ll smooth things over. You two can have this corner as long as you want. If any my boys or the Venture Co give you trouble, you send them my why.
Teemo Manabrake says: Gosh, that’s really kind of you.
Helix Gearbreaker says: No need to thank me, toots. Mutually beneficial business arrangement.
They watched Helix go over to chat with his brother. About 20 minutes later, a hobgoblin enforcer approached and explained he was there to send a message. He reached down and pulled down a six pack of kaja cola and handed it over.
Hobgoblin says: There you go. Welcome to team. Need anything else, let me know.
The hobgoblin walked away.
As Teemo and Luma worked, they overheard some chatter about the beef between Varian and VanCleef. The goblins seemed to think not much changed, as they were pretty sure the money was coming from Wrynn. They didn’t really care where it was coming from as long as they got paid, and it became clear that they had loyalty to neither side of the conflict.
Gil asked around to try and find a medical ward, and he heard mention that a crotchety old priest had set up a small temple and was treating people there. When he arrived, the priest appeared to not be there, but Gil decided to work with some of the people that were resting there.
He engaged in some small talk, and he asked if there was medical help, and one of them explained there were a few sawbones around, but anyone with medical training mostly worked off the ship and supplies were limited to injuries that happened in the field. Mr. Smite had apparently been enforcing the decree. Another patient said it was sort of nice that he fell ill because he at least had a moment to rest a bit.
Gil asked if a lot of people were falling ill, and the patient said with as many people in one place, he wished it could be said it was rare. The place was a dump. Half their rations seemed to spoil before they could even use it. It seemed that some of the patients believed Varian was right and they’d have a better chance of surviving the winter if they attacked the city.
Revil Kost says: Who the hell are you and what are you doing in my clinic?
Gil turned around.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Camtheus Glowsun. I thought I could help. I know a bit.
The priest was holding his hand. Behind him was a burly man that looked to be Uther’s age, and he was watching with a hand on his word.
Revil Kost says: Camtheus Glowsun. What kind of name is that? You aren’t from around here, are you?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Nah. Up near the border.
Revil Kost says: Which border?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Northern.
Revil squinted at him.
Revil Kost says: I don’t appreciate people barging into my clinic without permission, master Glowsun. You said you could help?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Absolutely.
Revil Kost says: Show me what you can do.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Do you mind if I take a look?
He gestured at his injured hand, and Revil gave him a suspicious look.
Revil Kost says: I’ve already tried to heal it. I think it’s a bit deeper than that.
Gil looked at it, and he realized there was a necrotizing effect. He used a [Restoration] spell on it, and Revil’s brow raised as he recognized the powerful magic. He asked where Gil learned it, and Gil simply said he picked it up in places.
Revil Kost says: Typical evasive answer. Look, if you want to help, I can put you to work.
He put Gil to work looking after some of the patients and Revil sat down to look through a tome.
Revil Kost says: Master Glowsun, while I have you here, I was hoping you could answer a few questions.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Yeah, definitely.
Revil Kost says: Firstly, how long ago did you arrive?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Earlier today.
Revil Kost says: Have you felt any illnesses since you arrived. Have you felt strangely?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I have not, personally.
Revil Kost says: Have you noticed anything strange? You or anyone you arrived with.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Not amongst anyone I arrived with, but the illness… food seems to be spoiling. That bite. A few too many things.
Revil Kost says: Yeah, I was thinking so as well. This question may seem out of left field, but I need you to bear with me and answer honestly. What do you know about the undead?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: More than the average person.
At that moment, Vel had arrived at the front of the clinic to follow up following her encounter with Revil Kost.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Several of us do. It’s been a long time since we last met, master Kost.
Revil looked over at her as she stood in the doorway. He squinted.
Revil Kost says: Who are you?
Velameestra Windrunner says: My apologies. It appears I found you again before I succeeded in the delivery to the archmage.
Revil Kost says: Wait a second… Velameestra Windrunner. Is that you?
She confirmed.
Revil Kost says: Heh. Light be damned, last I heard you were dead.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Hence why my delivery never arrived.
Revil explained that after her death he and Mardigan ensured they made the delivery personally, and Mardigan added it was a bit easier given Dalaran had moved so far south. Revil invited Vel in, unknowingly lifting the restriction that had forced the vampyr to hover at the doorway. He introduced her to “Camtheus Glowsun”, though Vel said they were acquainted, which resulted in Revil assuming Camtheus wasn’t the man’s real name. Gil offered a cheeky comment in turn, but that effectively confirmed the matter.
Vel asked if Revil was still hunting the Dark Riders, and he confirmed he was, and he had heard the Defias had one imprisoned.
Revil Kost says: I had the privilege of meeting up with the magus Medivh before I came here some short time ago. He and his… handmaiden? They found us as we were looking into clues. It was by his testimony we learned of the Riders recent movements, and that I was not the only one hunting them down. We were able to recover a handful of artifacts from them, but others we were unable to find. I know that blade is here.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s called Apocalypse. It’s known for causing unrest and violence. It may be the source of several of the symptoms we are seeing here. Which… my apologies, master Kost, for the bite.
Revil Kost says: Oh. That was you?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I don’t much like being grabbed.
Revil Kost says: I suppose mages have curious powers, though… considering the rumors I’ve been hearing, I thought you were something very different, miss Windrunner.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Meaning?
Revil Kost says: There are rumors around here. Rumors I’ve had the privilege of confirming. Some who have succumbed to their injuries have risen into undeath.
Velameestra Windrunner says: …Oh dear.
Revil Kost says: I lost a patient a week ago, and saw it myself. After our encounter I assumed there might have been some other dark presence hiding in the shadows. No normal rat can inflict such a wound, and even as a powerful mage…
It was clear Kost had his suspicions, and Vel explained some of the matters up north, including the movements of the Scarlet Crusade, who were at least partially responsible for the threat, but she assured him that she was not a threat to him, and they ultimately had a shared enemy. Revil asked if Gil knew that his companion wasn’t alive, and he confirmed he was aware.
Revil Kost says: …Strange times indeed.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Last time a priest grabbed me, I lost an eye. And much else. You’ll forgive my less-than-cordial reaction.
Revil Kost says: This Crusade?
Vel nodded.
Revil Kost says: Allow me to beg your forgiveness. While I don’t know how to feel about this business, to be compared to a blasphemer like that… one who would use their faith to oppress others en masse and stoop to such heresy to paint themselves a hero, it disgusts me. I have no desire to be regarded anywhere close to them. I don’t know what’s going on, but if you’re here to help, I’d be a fool to disregard it. But I will be watching you, and if I sense deception, I will take matters into my own hands.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I have no doubt you would. But you have your undead expert.
Revil Kost says: So it seems.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Doubt there’s anyone that knows more.
Revil Kost says: To know thy enemy. Well. I preserved the corpse that rose a few days ago.
Vel asked if she could look at the body, and he said he had buried it in a cemetery near Moonbrook, but he could take them to it. However, he said there was something strange happening.
Revil Kost says: You surely noticed the abundance of vermin as you scurried amongst them.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: They sounded scared?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Some are, others aren’t. They’re feuding. Some are more bold than others.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: That’s odd behavior, isn’t it?
Vel explained the dichotomy in the rat groups she had observed, and the group she had been with had ultimately been trying to remain low and not draw focus to themselves, but it ultimately didn’t save them in the end. Revil had turned away to look at some old tomes, and selected one that he held out to Vel.
The book was called “On Plagues, Curses, and Blights” written by royal historian Archesonus. Vel had read it before, so she handed it over to Gil. Revil noted the either chapter, which covered a period about 100 years ago where there was a period of Stormwind that was pock-marked by an increase of famine and violence. Folktales arose of a nameless horseman that the tragedies followed, but Archesonus doubted the existence of such a figure.
Revil explained that the guardian had told him the story of Apocalypse and how it came into the protection of the Guardian when Magna Aegwynn still held the power.
Revil Kost says: There was a man. You may know about them. The Council of Tirisfal.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I do.
Revil Kost says: Within it was the Tirisgarde, which kept a series of checks and balances. Long ago, one of its members opposed the Guardian and took up arms against her. From the way the tale was told, I was told the member of the Tirisgarde, a man named Laith Sha’ol, held his own against the Guardian. He did so with the power of the same blade that’s now here. But before the final blow was struck, she was able to tear the blade from his hands and break whatever powers it had. The swordsman relinquished it, and fled into the night. It was said the magna claimed the blade, and it was taken into her custody. Only later, would the Dark Riders appear, one of them claiming this blade once more. They’ve stolen many artifacts, many I’ve returned to their rightful owners. But this story feels pertinent. Do you know when they said Laith Sha’ol was said to confront the magna?
Velameestra Windrunner says: That part I don’t know.
Revil Kost says: The same era these riders plagued the countryside. It’s conjecture. There’s no way to say for sure they were the same, but in my life coincidences don’t happen.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: So do we think it’s the blade or do we think he’s still here somewhere?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I don’t know. It’s possible the spirit of Laith Sha'ol still haunts the blade, or some part of his regrets or guilt linger, or perhaps it’s unrelated. But if this blade was responsible for causing those symptoms we now see here, there could be a correlation. We will only know if we can claim the blade, and I’ve been unable to meet with the former king.
Vel said they had a high likelihood of doing so, and Revil mused they would perhaps succeed where he had failed. Vel added additional context for the blade, as she explained the tale of Apocalypse and the dreadlord Kathra'natir, who had gifted the blade to a ruler on another planet, and over time, the armies of the planet ripped themselves apart. Gil said that it sounded shockingly too close to what was going on the Deadmines, given the infighting that was happening.
Revil Kost says: Regardless, until the Dark Rider is slain and the blade is safely contained, I don’t know if things will get better for these people. I do not condone what they do… but I cannot sit idly by and allow them to suffer because of the machinations beyond anyone’s control. I have no mind for politics. I just want to reduce suffering.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Sounds like you care for politics then.
Revil Kost says: Tch. Call it what you want.
At that point, they heard heavy footfalls, and they turned and saw Mr. Smite heading toward the clinic. Revil nodded to the pair of them. Mr. Smite told Gil and Vel to follow him, and he did the same with Uther and Luma.
They were led toward the juggernaut. The vessel was massive in construction, and even the tauren didn’t have to duck through doors. As they entered into the helm, they saw a massive chair that was clearly orc constructed. Varian Wrynn sat on the “throne”. He was not wearing royal trappings, but was instead dressed in crimson leather with an asymmetrical pauldron. He leaned back in his chair, and beside him was a greatsword. He had a hand on its hilt, and the blade was black and crimson with a ram skull forging its pommel. Runes glowed with malicious energy at the blade’s tip.
For a moment, Valeera, who had rejoined them, put a hand on her chest and winced. She shook her head and recovered, but there had been a physical reaction to the blade.
Vel messaged Valeera and asked if she was okay, and Valeera explained she just thought the dreadlord she had contained recognized it. However, she was able to resist whatever echo of feeling had gone through her body.
Varian Wrynn says: I was told that you had some important information for me.
Vel looked him up and down, and by all rights he appeared to be normal Varian.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Information… about who framed you for the death of your sister.
Varian sat up and forward.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Your Court Conjurer is not human.
Varian Wrynn says: Go on.
Velameestra Windrunner says: She’s a dragon. A black dragon. She’s been putting up a charade. I can show you.
Vel put her fingertips to her temple and pulled forth a wispy strand of magic that manifested into a glowing, translucent, skull-headed raven standing in her palm. Varian squinted at the magic with his hand on his chin, and he requested that Smite fetch a woman named Caledon. Before long, the tauren returned with a dark-skinned woman with a simple white and gold robe. Her dark hair was bound back in braids, and Varian requested she ensure the magic their guests had brought wasn’t a trap. The woman nodded and she cast some identification magic. She observed that it appeared to simply be a thought strand, but she noted that there was illusion magic afoot.
Surena Caledon says: If I’m being frank, if you’re conjuring magic at this strength… there’s no way you’re here without additional protections. I surmise you’re likely shielding your identities.
Varian Wrynn says: I’m not surprised. I can’t imagine a handful of nobodies would come forth with such claims… and supposed evidence.
Vel telepathically informed Uther it was likely time for him to do his thing.
Uther Menethil says: Very astute, my lord! It’s been a long time.
Vel dropped the seeming, and there didn’t seem to be any shock or surprise on Varian’s face.
Varian Wrynn says: Uther Menethil. It has been some time, hasn’t it? I heard rumors of your miraculous survival, I guess I should have expected Stormwind would be the next kingdom you’d grace, even if we aren’t part of the Alliance.
Uther Menethil says: A temporary arrangement, I hope. But more to the point, we have to save your son.
Varian considered.
Varian Wrynn says: Katrana Prestor. You claim she’s a dragon. Let me see this memory.
Vel had the raven-esque thought strand flutter over to Varian, and he crushed the magic in his hand to absorb the memory.
Varian grinned.
Varian Wrynn says: I suspected there was more to her than met the eye. But I had no proof. That snake had been trying to manipulate me from the onset. You’re right. This cannot be allowed to stand. We need to march on Stormwind. Take her before she can bury her claws even deeper into my kingdom.
Velameestra Windrunner says: We need to make sure she cannot deflect the accusation.
Varian Wrynn says: She will deflect no accusations when I hang her HEAD from the gates of Stormwind!
Varian spoke up with a sudden explosion of rage.
Uther Menethil says: With all due respect…
He looked at Vel and asked if Onyxia would turn back into a dragon if she was killed. Vel quietly confirmed, but that meant they would have to besiege the keep of Stormwind and actually slay her first.
Varian Wrynn says: Do you have any other suggestions, or do you intend to wait until she shows her face elsewhere? This is Katrana Prestor. You know she’s smart.
Velameestra Windrunner says: The wedding. That gives us time to prepare and gather further evidence she cannot deflect. We have people inside the city, we can make this easier than an outright siege.
Varian Wrynn says: There’s wisdom in your words. It is longer than I would have wanted to wait, but you bring up a fair point. It provides us more opportunity. Opportunities to get sympathizers into the city and be prepared for anything. We’re already making moves to that end, but a few more weeks would allow us to better prepare. Even so, I’m certain that she will not be caught unawares. I assume you have a plan to make this work.
Vel repeated they had people on the inside, and Marshal Reginald Windsor was one, who was known to be a man who disappeared a year ago. She specified he had been looking for evidence of Katrana’s true identity, and Varian seemed surprised as he admitted he had thought the man dead.
Varian Wrynn says: You all arrive here claiming information critical to our success and news of lost soldiers who have been missing for a year… what do you get out of this? What do you hope to earn?
Velameestra Windrunner says: From the most objective standpoint, the fall of the High King.
Varian Wrynn says: You’re going for Prestor then? I presume her father is also a dragon?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: More like the black dragon.
Varian Wrynn says: I don’t care. Dragons can be slain. That I know. Despite the display they made, I suspected they’ve been in collaboration from the beginning. That everything happened during the summit was in accordance with their plans. If that were the case, I’d gladly see Daval Prestor peeled from his throne.
He looked at Uther.
Varian Wrynn says: What of your lady aunt and your cousin? Are they involved in this conspiracy as well?
Uther Menethil says: We’ve managed to save them.
Varian Wrynn says: You’re sure that’s safe?
Uther Menethil says: Among the most certain I have been in my life.
Varian Wrynn says: Then I’ll have to take your word for it. For now. Very well. We will plan for Winter Veil. We’ll use these weeks to continue seeding unrest and get our people in a position, and to be ready to keep Prestor’s dogs busy once the time of her reckoning comes. Once we bring her down, then we will turn our attention to Daval Prestor.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I would expect no less.
Uther Menethil says: It will be an honor to fight at your side.
Varian nodded.
Varian Wrynn says: This won’t be a simple tournament, Uther. I hope you’re ready to do what needs to be done. How fares your lord father and mother?
Uther Menethil says: Very well, actually. My father plans to join us when the time comes.
Varian Wrynn says: Even a nation that seceded from the Alliance? Impressive. I suppose a part of your father never could say no to a fight. Then again, you won’t hear complaints from me. After all, I’m the one rebelling against that very same kingdom.
Uther Menethil says: A lot of that going around.
Varian Wrynn says: Are you so certain Anduin can be saved?
Uther Menethil says: At the risk of sounding like a foolish boy full of idealism, I believe anyone can be saved, but especially Anduin.
Varian Wrynn says: I hope you’re right. As Court Conjurer, it’s no mystery to me that Katrana Prestor has a great deal of power. But the fact she’s a dragon as well calls to question how powerful she is. I’m glad to hear that Anduin is not beyond saving. I’m hoping the same can be said for the rest of the court. I cannot say precisely what she did, but she has a grasp on my people. I felt it lift after I fled the capital. As distance grew between us, I found myself able to think more clearly. I do not know what powers she holds or how she wields it, but hopefully can be said for the rest.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: There’s gonna like be one other problem when we confront her.
Varian Wrynn says: What’s that?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Her brood.
Varian Wrynn says: They’ll die as well. Blackfuse has supplied us with the best weapons they can offer. This ship will draw the attention of their navy as we press in. Whatever brood she may be hiding are not immune to canonfire, so we’ll bring lots of canons. Unless you have a better idea?
Uther Menethil says: We have plenty of time to prepare.
Varian Wrynn says: We may have a secondary idea. I presume that she will be fielding an attempt for air superiority. The royal navy has an air ship in its command. One that has yet to take to the skies. They’ve likely continued to work on it. We can claim it for our own, or hope the commanders will turn its canons against the foes that show their true nature. The first option is much safer. Dragons are a known threat. It should have some degree of protection.
Uther Menethil says: we have much to consider.
Varian Wrynn says: It’s being built in the dwarven district. It’s called the Skybreaker. It’s yet to make its maiden voyage, but I can think of few better times for it to break the skies. I’m sure she knows about the project as well. All the better. Very well then. Smite. Make sure that our people know that these people are special envoys and guests. They are not to be barred from coming and going as they please. I trust you will live up to your end of the bargain, and you will not disclose the location of this hideout to anyone. Make sure my trust is not misplaced.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Of course not.
Varian asked if there was anything else they needed, and Vel brought up she knew they had imprisoned a dangerous rider, and she wished to know why he was still alive. Varian asked if she knew his nature, and she confirmed that she did.
Varian Wrynn says: Then you understand he has a great deal of information that could be useful for us.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Would you like aid in acquiring it?
Varian Wrynn says: …Our methods have proven… effective, albeit slow. What would you be hoping to regain in return for this?
Velameestra Windrunner says: His death.
Varian Wrynn says: You’re welcome to speak with him, but until our revolution succeeds, I cannot risk his death. Once Katrana Prestor is dead, you can do as you wish, but until then, he stays in my custody.
Velameestra Windrunner says: …That’s acceptable.
Varian Wrynn says: Smite, tell them what we’ve found about him.
Smite says: The name he has given us, at least in regards to who he was before, is Ariden.
Varian Wrynn says: He’s been woefully uncooperative. Though his knowledge of the surrounding areas is impressive. He has a preternatural sense for danger, and he’s used it to anticipate attacks and hunt down the other Dark Riders. Unfortunately, none of the others we were able to slay carried weapons as impressive as the one that he did.
Serena Caledon says: He appears to be a fiendish creature. A human who has been corrupted by an abundance of magic from the Twisting Nether. It’s as if the man was thrown into a netherstorm. He only mentions a Harbinger. It’s unclear who he meant. Regardless, he served this person no longer. I’ve siphoned his power and I learned a great deal in the process.
Her eyes went over to Valeera, indicating he might have been one of the sources of blood to keep the dreadlord at bay.
Serena Caledon says: He’s an abomination, but he’s useful for the time being.
Varian Wrynn says: You’re still welcome to speak with him. If you can glean something further, it can only aid our cause.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Very well.
Varian got to his feet.
Varian Wrynn says: Lets be about our business then.
Vel bowed, and Uther extended out his hand. Varian looked at it, but he took his hand and shook it.
Mr. Smite took them to the dungeon, which was located in the belly of the juggernaut. There were other prisoners there, and there were vermin all over the ship. They were led to a cell where they saw a man in a tattered black cloak. The hood had been peeled from it along with any pieces of armor, and all that remained were the sad remains of a man who had slouched against the far end of the steel and wood.
Vel saw spirits in the area that were not happy. The ethereal plane was abuzz with specters that would have been dangerous if they slipped through.
The rider appeared to be a half-elf. His skin was pallid and covered in horrific pox marks. His face and skin was burned black, with heavy fel corruption all over his body. His eyes burned with a fel, yellowish-red. He was not a humanoid anymore. He had simple black hair that was messy and long, and he was not undead, but he was no longer a normal mortal.
He was smiling. A dry, raspy laugh continued through his teeth as his body shifted ever-so-slightly with the nearly silent noise. It was like he was laughing at a joke no one else could hear. Vel looked at Smite and asked how they captured him.
Smite says: The same way we capture anyone. We beat him until he stopped moving, but not so much it was permanent. Caledon has been able to translate whatever language he’s speaking.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Eredun likely.
Vel stepped forward, and Smite opened the cell door so that she could enter. She crouched down in front of the Dark Rider. He looked up at her. He might have been an attractive man once, but now he looked like a walking corpse, yet was somehow still living.
Velameestra Windrunner says: How did a creature like you, who can supposedly sense danger, find yourself in a situation like this?
He spoke in a raspy voice in eredun.
Dark Rider Ariden says [eredun]: Not even I can outrun fate.
Velameestra Windrunner says [eredun]: Did you intend for that sword to arrive where it did?
Dark Rider Ariden says [eredun]: The sword arrives where it wants to arrive. It sings, and we listen. It is the conductor to an orchestra that no mortal can hope to understand. Not even you.
Meanwhile, the rest of the group heard them speaking in a gutteral, uncomfortable tongue that hurt to listen to, and Luma decided to leave the room.
Liiraluma says: Fuck no, we’re not staying for this.
The language also seemed to bother Valeera, who took a few steps back, but she opted to remain in the room.
Velameestra Windrunner says [eredun]: Your name is Ariden?
Dark Rider Ariden says [eredun]: It was, before the name was stripped from me. What is a name, after all, but a prelude to destiny. A whim of fate, destined to be forgotten in the annals of history. To be crushed, to be swept away in the cacophony of the din we can never dream of. It is not my name, but it was. On a meaningless epitaph at a grave that will never be dug. For I cannot die.
Velameestra Windrunner says [eredun]: A man named Laith Sha’ol. Is he one of your fellows?
A distinct shift crossed the man’s demeanor.
Dark Rider Ariden says [eredun]: Where did you hear that name?
Velameestra Windrunner says [eredun]: Perhaps I’ll tell you, if you tell me how you know it in turn.
Her eyes flashed magenta as she attempted to charm the man, but he smiled, showing blackened teeth.
Dark Rider Ariden says [eredun]: Nice try. But I don’t think so. I don’t care how you know that name. He’s gone. That’s all that matters. A name that will be forgotten, just like all of us. The song is coming. The song is coming, and when it does, a rift between worlds will suck in everything. We will all be its pawns as the maw of fate devours each and every one of us! They won’t save you, little girl. They won’t save me. They won’t save any of us. The Harbinger is coming.
Vel knew that he was likely talking about Aegwynn. She made a soft chuff in the back of her throat and turned away, chanting to herself as she opened up her spellbook. The Dark Rider started to laugh at her, but as Vel finished reconsidering the magic she had prepared, she snapped her fingers, and abruptly lashed out at the man with a furious strike of her claws as she used [Transfusion]. His blood sprayed from the wound and was swiftly coalesced into vials by the magic. The Dark Rider hissed.
Smite says: Watch it! What do you think you’re doing over there!?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Getting more information. I’m done here.
She held up one of the vials, which was filled with ichorous, swampy green blood. She exited the cell.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I can likely learn more from this than talking to him.
Smite says: …If you say so.
He muttered under his breath in taur-ahe as he shook his head in disbelief.
Smite says [taur-ahe]: …Dark mages.
Luma disguised themselves as a purply-black tauren and went back to see Teemo. They relayed the plan to Teemo and explained the matter of an airship, but Luma said that they felt that a smaller craft was better, and this was their apology for making Teemo flirt with the goblins.
Teemo grinned and pulled out a massive blueprint, and she admitted that she had a few ideas.
The group headed topside and there was Mardigan already working on digging up the grave. He explained Revil would be there soon, but he figured he’d get a head start.
Mardigan says: So, uh… are you really like a zombie or something?
Velameestra Windrunner says: That… could be a word for it.
Mardigan says: Cool.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Do you think that, over time, misidentifying undead will be like misgendering someone?
Velameestra Windrunner says: That’s probably a bridge we can cross when it comes to it.
Mardigan says: You know, we’re kind of like a scary storybook. We’re digging up graves. I’m a worgen. You’re a scary zombie-lady. It’s pretty cool.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: You’re a worgen?
Mardigan says: Oh! I thought you knew because you were friends with her. Yeah. I’m a worgen.
Vel asked Mardigan if he had undergone something called the Ritual of Balance, and his confusion at the name offered all the answer she needed. He said he used Revil’s medicine, and Vel said that was something they could likely discuss after the body was exhumed.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It will… help you contain that inner beast of yours.
Mardigan says: What? I don’t know what that means, but it sounds cool.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s probably best if I wait for master Kost to explain.
Revil Kost says: What are we waiting for me on?
Revil Kost had approached the group at that moment, and Vel explained the context of Gilneas and the Ritual of Balance. Revil seemed interested, and he asked Mardigan if he was up for it, and he said he was willing to try. Kost said that there were other worgen in the Deadmines that could probably benefit from it as well.
As the body was pulled up, Vel identified the body as the corpse of an undead creature known as a wrathstalker. It was the same type of undead that had been hunting Garona, and the only reason it hadn’t returned was because it had been gentle reposed. Vel’s eyes widened.
Velameestra Windrunner says: …Oh, that’s bad.
She bent down over the corpse and opened its mouth so she could examine for any sign of the plague from up north, but it didn’t have the acid burns in its mouth that would indicate the individual had gotten incredibly sick before dying. Even so, the corpse did not look healthy. He had clearly died from an acute disease, though it was not a magical affliction.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Are you familiar with wrathstalkers, master Kost?
Revil Kost says: I am. A type of undead that keeps coming back to get revenge, correct?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. They often body hop… the only reason this one has not come back is because you gentle reposed him.
Revil grunted and noted it was a good thing he did then. Vel asked if this was the first one he encountered, and he said it was the first one he did personally, but there were stories of others and several people have died of supposed friends that were believed dead only to attack in the night. It had been mostly strangulations, but any bodies that had been brought to him had seemed to be normal. This was the only one that hadn’t.
He said he would increase his diligence and keep them informed of any further attacks, but most of the attacks were against people they knew, never strangers. He told Mardigan to keep his ear to the ground and if he heard of any shankings, or if he shanked anyone, he was to tell him immediately.
Mardigan says: Of course, mister Kost!
Vel leaned back from the body, and Revil asked how things went with the Dark Riders. Vel said that the rider recognized the name Laith Sha’ol, so there was some sort of connection, though he did not say what it was. She gave him the rest of the rundown, and Revil seemed perturbed, but unsurprised, at how cryptic the fiend was. However, she had managed to secure some of the Rider’s blood. Revil said that he would keep them appraised of anything new, and Valeera also spoke up that she could help where needed.
Vel looked over at Valeera and asked if she knew of any towers in the area Colyn Clessington might have met at, and the woman suggested there was one, though it was owned by Surena Caledon, the hedge-mage in Varian’s service.
Vel opted to quickly analyze one of the vials of the Dark Rider’s blood, and she immediately got back that his true name was Ariden Sha’ol, meaning that he was likely related to Laith. It also noted that the blood held a potent disease. He was also resistant to fire and shadow.
Revil used magic to identify the disease in the blood and he furrowed his brow.
Revil Kost says: …I can’t identify it. It’s something that doesn’t exist. Or something that is hidden from me. It’s like an undescribed disease, but most strangely… it’s not the first time I’ve seen this.
Velameestra Windrunner says: When was the last time?
Revil Kost says: Earlier today. And the day before. Almost everyone that is coming into my clinic has had this disease.
Velameestra Windrunner says: What is the prognosis on those that arrive? Do they live?
Revil Kost says: Some do. Others do not. It’s hard to render aid to. It doesn’t make any sense. If that fiend has this disease… perhaps there’s a connection. I’ll look into it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Check the rats.
Revil Kost says: I will. I'll check anyone I can get my hands on.