Appearing Characters: Arthak Saurfang, Azuka Stormbreaker (vision), Dargrul (vision), Ebonhorn (vision), Eche'ro, Huln Highmountain, Jale Rivermane (vision), Lantresor, Levia Blackflight, Mayla Highmountain, Nyxxa Murkthorn, Rak'Symma, Rexxar, Sol'chi, Thisalee Crow, Torok Bloodtotem (vision), Ulan Highmountain (vision), Vaerux, Zar'Kaa, Zekhan
November 13th
Mayla stood up with unexpected difficulty and she looked down at herself with confusion.
Mayla Highmountain says: What…? What’s going on?
Symma felt like she was hit by a ton of bricks. She looked down, and saw that the eagle that had died peacefully in her lap had disappeared. She also got to her feet and approached Mayla to help her the rest of the way to her feet.
Rak'Symma says: Ignoring what’s on the surface… are you alright?
Mayla Highmountain says: I am, but… I’m remembering things. Things that haven’t happened. It’s like I’m remembering a lifetime I’ve never spent. Is… is this real? We were at the trial. We were following Eche'ro… did that happen?
Rak'Symma says: I don’t think we’re done following him yet.
Mayla nodded and started to move. She appeared to be well over 100, which was ancient for a tauren, and she couldn’t move well without assistance. Slowly and gingerly, the pair followed the echo of Ebonhorn’s voice into the cave. As they continued, it slowly and seamlessly began to shift into something else. They saw decorations appear on the cave walls. The rough hewn stone became wood. The cold of the winter was replaced with the warmth of a hearth that was warm enough for old bones.
They found themselves in Mayla’s chambers, as if they had just gone back to Thunder Totem. There were changes. The weight of the years had settled there, but the old bones were the same. Ebonhorn was waiting for them. He was younger. Enough time had passed for him to pretend to be a new Ebonhorn, a younger one. As he saw them, the facade of youth gave way, revealing him to be as old and weary as Mayla.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Mayla, old friend. I’m sorry to wake you, but we need to talk. It’s time we talked.
He approached and took Mayla’s hand to lead her to a chair that was laden with furs close to the fire. She settled into it.
Mayla Highmountain says: Spiritwalker, it’s so wonderful to see you. I’m not sure what’s happening… just a moment ago I swear we were chasing Eche’ro, and now we’re back in Thunder Totem.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: I see…
Ebonhorn had a momentary expression of sadness and uncertainty that flashed across his features.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: I know this can be difficult, and I know you don’t need to be burdened by things, but we need to discuss the future, Mayla. If you can be here for just a while, please.
Mayla Highmountain says: Of course, but what do you mean?
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Your time… your time is nearing its end, old friend. And without an heir. Without someone to lead after you are gone, we need to talk about what will happen.
As he spoke, the memories began to form more clearly. She had no children. There was no one to carry on after her like she had for her father.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: I’m so sorry to have this conversation, but… no one can fault you for how things have gone. You have led us so well over the years. Even your father would be in awe of what you have accomplished. While your bond with the warchief has not granted you children, it has given you people many… strong allies.
Mayla Highmountain says: With the warchief?!
Rak'Symma says: Arthak?
Mayla Highmountain says: Of… of course.
Mayla blushed, as she realized she had many memories that were both her’s and not her’s.
All the assembled fireflies turned and looked at the firefly Arthak, and Arthak looked down at Eche’ro. Eche’ro looked up at him with innocent cheekiness.
Eche'ro says: These are not memories of my own construction. They are simply one possibility of many. But I did not invent them.
Arthak turned and looked stoically ahead.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Well. You do leave a strong impression.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Without one of Huln’s lineage to succeed you, the tribes have been growing restless, Mayla. There are differing opinions of what to do next. While their respect and love for you is without doubt, I don’t know what will happen once you are gone…
Mayla Highmountain says: I understand. It seems like I was only just getting started, but that seems foolish coming from me now…
Vision of Ebonhorn says: No. That is life, my old friend. I’ve seen this… many times before.
Mayla Highmountain says: Remind me, what are our options?
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Of course. Well, I can tell you what the chieftains have been calling for. Torok’s grandchild and the Bloodtotem… despite her grandfather’s regard, she thinks that just as time is passing, she believes the Bloodtotem should go its own way. The world has changed, and it may be time for the tribes to stand apart. The Rivermane… they have been finding satisfaction with choosing a chieftain not by lineage, but by vote, and they believe that perhaps it would be best for that to applied to your title as well. Have all of us choose a new chieftain and hope Eche’ro will accept them as he did you. The Skyhorn are hoping to perhaps do away with the high chieftain entirely and have a shared leadership between the tribes. Your own people, the Highmountain… we are hoping that you may select a successor to lead us, even if they are not of Huln’s blood. There are very different opinions. With the drogbar posturing, it has only been more tense.
Mayla sighed.
Mayla Highmountain says: I hoped these tensions would have been settled now that the demons have been defeated. Wait… the demons... We’ve defeated them, yes?
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Yes. Yes. You led beautifully, but with great sacrifice at the Ettinwalk. It was a long time ago, but we beat them, Mayla.
Mayla put her forehead in her hand for a moment and she looked over at Rak’Symma.
Mayla Highmountain says: I… I feel like I… have a thousand thoughts churning through my mind. Rak’Symma, what do you make of all this?
Symma offers a bewildered chuff.
Rak'Symma says: This… isn’t something a harpy has to deal with. I can tell you what I think you could do, but as much as I love your people… I shouldn’t tell you how to run them. With harpies, a matriarch creates her own progeny, and the cycle continues again and again until someone challenges them. We don’t deal with finding a mate or that connection…
Mayla Highmountain says: Perhaps that would have been easier.
Rak'Symma says: To a point? We don’t… get to choose who we are. We will always be our forebearers. You, for whatever reason, made your own choice, and it seems it was one that was respected.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Mayla… are you talking to Rak’Symma?
Mayla looked at Ebonhorn, confused.
Mayla Highmountain says: Yes, she’s right there. Do you not see her? She’s right there.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Mayla… Rak’Symma has been gone for a long time…
Mayla Highmountain says: How is that possible… she…
Symma alone felt a warm wind wash past her. It was warm, and heavy with an odor she recognized all too well. It was the scent of rot. Symma used [Detect Magic], and she was momentarily blinded by the overwhelming aura of magic. The carrion wind brushed by her ear, and she heard a voice.
Voice of Rot says: You didn’t make it… little morsel.
Symma’s expression shifted into one of rage, but Mayla did not hear or feel the wind, even though they could see each other. Symma grit her teeth together, and there was a faint crackling of lightning through her feathers.
Mayla Highmountain says: What happened to her? I’m sorry… I can’t remember…
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Um… the High Crawliac… we scattered her forces for a time. We drove her back. For a time. But… Rak’Symma did not… she dealt her a mighty blow, but she did not come back.
Mayla looked over to Symma, and there was confusion in her eyes.
Mayla Highmountain says: …I see.
Rak'Symma says: Since he can’t see or hear me, ask her if Crawliac was felled.
Mayla Highmountain says: Did we stop her? The High Crawliac?
Vision of Ebonhorn says: For a time.
Mayla Highmountain says: She still lives…
Vision of Ebonhorn says: She has remained a problem, yes. A stubborn one. When the Legion came, we thought she had felled her again there… she still lives.
Ebonhorn clenched his fist as he recalled the tale.
Mayla Highmountain says: Regardless, something will need to be done about that. If that is what happened, I can’t allow that to go unpunished. But… I need to make a decision.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: I’m afraid you do. The tribes will respect your word. Without it, I don’t know what they will do after you’re gone.
Mayla Highmountain says: There are others. Others who… have less direct lineage to Huln. But there are others. Ones who may be worthy to lead us. But I see the value of… what the Rivermane and Skyhorn present as well. But with the demons defeated, perhaps now is a time to consider other alternatives.
Rak'Symma says: You say that like demons were your only threat.
Symma was still seething.
Rak'Symma says: The only reason that Crawliac was subdued was because you all stood together. And if she’s still out there because I failed, then you still need to land united. If the Bloodtotem leave, they’ll be the first ones to fall, whether they fall like soldiers or the eagles she steals. So I am sorry to keep drawing your tauren into my bullshit.
Mayla Highmountain says: No, you were as much Highmountain as all of us. Your words mean as much to me as anything else… Even if it seems as if I’m talking to a ghost.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Those who are close to their return to the Earthmother… past, present… they walk closer with the spirits. If you do see her, then I hope she is here. I miss her.
Mayla Highmountain says: I think she may be closer than you may realize. I propose we solve as many of these problems as we can. Have the tribes gather their fiercest warriors, their most skilled hunters, and their greatest shamans. Gather them together, hunt down the High Crawliac until every one of her eggs has been found and destroyed. Highmountain deserves to be rid of her corruption, and our beloved friend deserves justice. Then, those who show exceptional leadership on this campaign should be gathered in a moot, and the chieftains of all the tribes will then select one from amongst them to inherit my position. They may decide what to do next. If independence is to be our future, then that may come to pass there, or if all chieftains are to be brought to an equivalent level, that too can be a result of this. How does that sound?
Vision of Ebonhorn says: If that is your will, Mayla. I have never been wrong in trusting it.
Mayla smiled.
Mayla Highmountain says: And I have always been grateful for that trust.
She smiled over at Rak’Symma as well. Mayla didn’t notice, but Rak’Symma noted that Ebonhorn was comforted by her words, but there was still a lot of fear and doubt about what would happen when she was gone. It seemed like this wasn’t the first time such an idea was presented, and he was worried that she didn’t remember the other times.
Rak'Symma says: Mayla, it’s as I told Lasan before we left for all of this… and maybe it’s what got me killed. I don’t need you running into lands lost and tainted on a vendetta. No matter how right it is. Because those woods twist and turn, and she will trap anyone who gets close. No matter how united a force, they will be scattered and broken apart.
Mayla Highmountain says: So we’re supposed to just live under that fear and oppression?
Rak'Symma says: No. I did that because I was alone. But your people were never alone. You have each other, and you’re all smarter than she is. She is malicious and clever, but she is proud. You can think of a way to draw her out. We produce copies of ourselves, but they have to grow and age and come into their own… you can cull them one by one as they feed on their pride and hubris.
Mayla Highmountain says: Seems there’s no right answer then…
Rak'Symma says: If it was an easy fight, she would have been dealt with long before. She is the reason harpies are seen as foul, corrupted vermin… but your people aren’t that way. I don’t know why those members of the Horde left before this was settled, or why they struck such a delicate alliance with your bloodline before handling this… but the tribes have held Highmountain for so long, and they will continue to do so, together.
Mayla Highmountain says: Then we’ll do just that.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: What should I tell the chieftains, Mayla?
Mayla Highmountain says: I will name a successor as chieftain of the Highmountain. Get me a list of cousins and relatives, those who survived. Someone who has proven themselves and can be trusted. They will be instated as chieftain of the Highmountain tribe, but not as the high chieftain. For the time being, I believe the Skyhorn has merit with what they say. The chieftains can operate on equal footing and come together to make decisions on how to entrap the Crawliac. Send people to the warchief and the rest of the Horde and see what assistance they can provide us. If the Bloodtotem cannot be convinced to stay, we cannot force them, but we can try to keep amicable relations and hope they will not get themselves destroyed by the Crawliac. What we cannot afford is to war against them as well. Shu’halo should not shed the blood of each other. Even if they don’t want to be part of Highmountain, they are still our brothers and sisters, and the enemy of our enemy is our friend, even if Torok’s granddaughter has yet to learn that truth. If a time comes when another who would lead the tribes united as high chieftain, we will leave that decision to the next generation, and I trust you to ensure that decision is made with wisdom. But I think that’s the most I can do.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: I will see this done. I will have a message drafted. Warchief Hellscream will be told that we are pursuing the Crawliac once more.
Mayla Highmountain says: Then I have a few things to take care of before the Earthmother calls me to her. After all, I suppose I’ll need to get a gift for you, won’t I?
Vision of Ebonhorn says: You’ve given me gifts enough. I’ll leave you to your rest. I’ll check back in soon, Mayla.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you, old friend. For everything.
Vision of Ebonhorn says: Earthmother watch over you, and love you as I have.
Ebonhorn turned to walk away, passing directly through Rak’Symma. It was the last time that Ebonhorn had every spoken to her, as there would not be another conversation after. The room melted away and became a cave tunnel once more, but so did the years from Mayla. Her back straightened, the grey faded, and she was now in her middle years, the time where experience and vigor were at their most finely balanced. Her at her peak.
Mayla Highmountain says: So that is what it feels like to be ancient.
She looked over at Rak’Symma with sympathy in her eyes.
Mayla Highmountain says: Rak’Symma, I don’t know what this is about, but we can avert this. It’s not written in stone. I won’t allow it to be.
Another familiar voice called from deeper within the tunnel. It was Torok’s voice. It was still as fierce and stern as it always was, though weathered with age.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: Mayla, it is time. I have assembled the war leaders.
Mayla Highmountain says: Shall we go and face whatever this cave has in store for us next?
Symma gave a very tired and drawn sighed.
Rak'Symma says: Lets see what the oversized puppy has in store, shall we?
Mayla snickered and squeezed her shoulder as they headed into the tunnel again. This time, it became a large war tent. At the center was a large table with a number of maps, at the center of which was the Broken Isles. There were markers for the tribes, the Horde, and most prominently dark green markers that likely represented the Legion.
It was the last war. The bleeding of the Ettinwalk. The people assembled were chieftains of each of the tribes, as well as representatives from Stormheim, Trueshot Lodge, the warchief’s daughter, all of them present to plot the next step. The Legion had arrived, and it was most likely the end of the world.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: Chieftains! Attention to the high chieftain.
Everyone stood and looked to Mayla.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: We have news, Mayla.
Mayla Highmountain says: What are we looking at, Torok?
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: Legion forces are descending on Highmountain as we already knew, but they are more than we were ready for. They are intent on taking the hammer and wiping us from the face of the Earthmother. We’ve been contending with the nathrezim agents… if it weren’t for our allies in the lodge, we wouldn’t have noticed the army coming in time. We are about a week out from them crossing the Ettinwalk and arriving at the base of our home. Warchief Saurfang has promised reinforcements, but the Legion remains well-informed. Our allies remain cut off. By the time they arrive, it will likely be too late. In short, the battle will be fierce regardless.
Mayla Highmountain says: What options do we have? Is there anywhere left where we can evacuate civilians? Is there anywhere that is safe?
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: No. The Legion and their allies are… everywhere. Stormheim sent those they could. The nightborne… everyone is fighting their own war. This is ours. We have to hold Thunder Totem. But we have an option. We can send forces to break through the Legion line and carve a path for the Horde to come to us. It is not a surefire plan. If they succeed, the warchief’s forces can supplement ours and we may have a real chance at stopping the Legion before they reach our home.
Mayla Highmountain says: Burn through the line…but it’s a suicide mission.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: Yes. As high chieftain, this is your decision. None of us here doubt that you will make the right choice.
Torok scanned the room, and there was the sense of a threat to his tone.
Mayla Highmountain says: Well. If we do not send for aid, we will all die, and it won’t matter if our deaths are glorious if Thunder Totem burns. Are there any volunteers?
Torok immediately took a step forward.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: I would be proud to lead this mission, Mayla. Bloodtotem are the fiercest warriors, and we will carve a path. That I can promise you.
Mayla Highmountain says: Yet, without your leadership and skills… I likewise fear how we will fare against them in the coming battles, important as this one may be.
Vision of Azuka Stormbreaker says: I can go. Arthak sent me to help. I can help.
Memories flooded into her mind, memories that were not her own, but were also her’s in this instance all the same.
Mayla Highmountain says: …The warchief would never forgive me if I allowed you to do this. I have no doubt you would succeed…
Vision of Azuka Stormbreaker says: Doesn’t matter what he forgives if we’re dead.
Mayla Highmountain says: You sound a lot like him…
Vision of Azuka Stormbreaker says: Yeah.
Mayla Highmountain says: Are there any other candidates? Anyone you think is qualified to take this up?
Other people stepped forward and offered themselves to lead the mission, but there was also the unspoken option of Mayla herself. She was the high chieftain, but even Torok would begrudgingly admit that she was a warrior his equal. There was also Lernah Skyhorn, the daughter of Lasan, who was also gone much sooner than anyone would have liked. Mayla looked back at Rak’Symma, as they realized that Lasan had likely perished the same time Rak’Symma had.
Symma shrugged helplessly.
Rak'Symma says: War tactics have… never been a strong suit of mine. But I wouldn’t cast your best and brightest into this. You will need them later, even to guide your people when this is over.
Voice of Rot says: You are right, little morsel. Winning wars was never your strong suit.
Symma ground her teeth as she hissed at the voice, lightning crackling through her feathers again.
Rak'Symma says: It seems a silly thing to do, but my best advice is to pray to whatever god can hear you, and hope they can help you.
Mayla nodded.
Mayla Highmountain says: I’ll certainly be doing that…
Rak'Symma says: An’she guided you this far. I don’t see why he’d stop now. And a part of you has won this battle already, as we are going backwards through your lifetime.
Mayla Highmountain says: But what decision did I make… which one is the correct decision? There has to be a right answer…
Mayla looked at the map, and then up to Torok.
Mayla Highmountain says: An’she gave us the gift of fire. Taught us how to forge weapons, how to defend ourselves and fight, and none know how to fight as well as you. There are none here more qualified for this than you. I do not want to say goodbye to you, but I don’t know what the other answer is. I want to rely on you, Torok Bloodtotem. Thunder Totem needs you, and I believe you are the right answer. After all, there are few who could slay demons as effectively as you can. Will you do this?
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: With pride, Mayla. I will not fail you.
Mayla Highmountain says: I know. I know. There are many questions that we all have about how this will pan out, but whether or not you will succeed is not one of them.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: On that, high chieftain, we are agreed.
She then looked over to Azuka.
Mayla Highmountain says: Chieftain Stormbreaker, can you shadow him? Use the opening he gives you, and seek out the warchief. Tell him what we’ve done, and of Torok’s gambit, and see to it that they get here as soon as they can.
Vision of Azuka Stormbreaker says: Okay.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you. The rest of us will make preparations. We will fight and defend this land to the last.
The chieftains and warlords file out, but Torok stayed behind for a moment.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: Thank you, Mayla.
Mayla Highmountain says: No, thank you, old friend.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: We all come to our end eventually, but you have given me one I can been happy with. Atop a mound of demon corpses. I’ll give your warchief a competition.
Mayla Highmountain says: I’ll be sure he crafts a suitable ballad for you.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: Good enough. Until next time.
Torok set a hand on Mayla’s shoulder.
Mayla Highmountain says: An’she give you strength, Torok Bloodtotem.
Vision of Torok Bloodtotem says: He always has.
With confidence and pride, Torok strode out of the chamber, leaving Mayla and Rak’Symma alone as everything faded again.
Mayla Highmountain says: You know, Symma… he really is like a puppy, isn’t he?
She grimly laughed, but was clearly mentally exhausted.
Mayla Highmountain says: I don’t even know half the people we are seeing, yet these memories… it’s strange.
Rak'Symma says: If you remember them after this is over, you’ll have to tell me.
Mayla Highmountain says: I will. Though, you don’t think the others are seeing this too, do you?
Rak'Symma says: I’d rather not think of that for now.
Mayla Highmountain says: Fair.
Voice of Rot says: Getting closer, little morsel.
Rak'Symma says: I’d be lying if I said I was ready to face this now, but Eche’ro and I will have words after this is done. So we should go.
More years melted from Mayla. She was now largely as they remembered her when everything began, maybe only a few years older. There was a confidence in how she settled into herself, and how she moved, that was not quite there yet, but she was a chieftain that had come to terms with her role.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Mayla!
Jale’s voice called from down the tunnel.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Young lady! Might I have a word with you?
Mayla smiled at the familiar voice.
Mayla Highmountain says: Lets see to this end, shall we?
Symma’s brow furrowed, but she nodded, and they headed down the tunnel again. This time, it wasn’t a place they recognized. It was a rough-hewn stone room, which was in the style of the Horde. It was formidable in construction. Outside the window, there was a sprawling, barren land, and the memories drifted in. They were at the Barrens Accords. Many people were called to the Horde’s new, under construction capital to decide a path for the future. It was something the warchief had dubbed the Western Defense path.
Mayla Highmountain says: It’s good to see you, Jale.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: I’m not dead yet, and this is new. My successors have other things to do.
Mayla Highmountain says: What did you need to talk to me about?
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Well, I’ve got word a few offers have been put your way. I thought it would help to have someone to bounce thoughts off of. Since old Ebonhorn is back home, I thought I’d fill in.
Mayla Highmountain says: I appreciate it. So what do you think of my options?
Most of the focus was on the Western Defense Pact, but there were offers coming from Arthak, and also a Baine Bloodhoof from Mulgore, who had sought to unite the tauren through requesting her hand.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: A very popular young woman!
Jale chuckled.
Mayla Highmountain says: Apparently yes. What are everyone’s thoughts?
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Well. Everyone has their own opinions, but I was curious about your thoughts, and… what offer intrigues you more?
Mayla Highmountain says: Well… I would be lying if I said Arthak was not inspiring in his own way, but it’s… I can’t say I know Baine Bloodhoof well. I’ve apparently spoken to him before…
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: He’s a handsome one. And his ambitions are… laudable.
Mayla looked over to Symma.
Mayla Highmountain says: If this is going backwards… do you think there’s a right answer here? A way to… is that the nature of this test? Am I supposed to pick Arthak?
Rak'Symma says: I think you’re meant to pick whatever you would pick. This is… technically… your trial, where you are to be judged based on your actions and decisions.
Mayla Highmountain says: I suppose you’re right.
Rak'Symma says: So whatever you choose to do is the right answer. Courtships are…
Mayla Highmountain says: Outside your realm of expertise.
Rak'Symma says: Yes. But from the surface, we know, loosely, I guess, what Arthak poses? And Baine apparently has his own tribe, so I don’t know what that would mean for the pair of you.
Mayla Highmountain says: I don’t know either… Um. Jale, I think right now, I need to learn more about what these two people want with me? I need to get to know them more. I don’t know if that’s… selfish. But Baine’s offer intrigues me and I have some cousins if it proves if I… end up choosing a different individual. Perhaps someone else would be more to his liking? But I do find his ideas fascinating. I know that, thus far, the shu’halo of Mulgore and Highmountain have had limited contact, but I think we could both benefit from a closer relationship, especially if the Horde settles near their lands.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Indeed! It is early. Though Lasan’s girl is keen on Baine’s ideas, and Torok is, well…
Mayla Highmountain says: Torok?
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: He thinks the boy’s too soft.
Mayla Highmountain says: He would think most are too soft.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: He likes your green boy well enough. If you did go for the Horde, you aren’t alone. The Stormheim have taken with the Horde, and a group of Fallentorn satyrs have also taken that route. But if you want to buy yourself some time, Baine’s people also have the quillboar and the centaur to deal with. Everyone’s all stirred up. You can play your cards slowly. That’s my vote.
Mayla Highmountain says: You seem to have a great deal of wisdom concerning this, Jale.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Take your time, my girl. You have plenty of it.
Mayla Highmountain says: Indeed, but I’m starting to realize time can slip through your fingers quite quickly. I think I need to speak with Arthak more and find out more about what the Horde is planning before I make any decisions.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: I think that’s wise.
Mayla Highmountain says: Maybe we can invite them to Thunder Totem. Have a meeting of sorts.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Set something like that up after the Accords. Kick that rock down the hill a bit.
Mayla Highmountain says: And when I’m forced to make a decision, I’ll have a feeling I’ll know what to pick.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Yes, and we have this defense pact everyone is so keen on. That’s enough politics for one visit.
Mayla Highmountain says: Agreed. Thank you for your council, Jale, it’s always some of the best I could ask for.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: What you call wisdom I’m just calling gossip, but I’ll take the compliment.
Jale stands with a creak and a soft groan.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Don’t get old, Mayla, that’s my wisdom.
Mayla looked over at Symma with a thousand-yard stare.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Who are you staring at? Is that my mate? Did he finally show up.
Rak'Symma says: Just tell her yes, and that he misses her.
Mayla Highmountain says: I think he did. And he misses you.
Vision of Jale Rivermane says: Tell him to be patient! I’ll get there soon enough. Hmph. Can’t get enough of me. In all seriousness, you’re doing well, Mayla, your father would be proud. Earthmother knows I am.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you, Jale, I can only hope so.
Jale turned with a chuckle and shuffled away. Mayla took a deep breath.
Mayla Highmountain says: I really didn’t think we’d be dealing with topics like this!
Symma shrugged, somewhat speechless.
Voice of Rot says: Just a little closer, little morsel.
Mayla Highmountain says: Is everything alright, Symma? Do you hear something?
Rak'Symma says: It’s been haunting me since this section began. Whispering in my ear. Clearly something I can’t put off any longer.
Mayla Highmountain says: Whatever it is, we’ll face it together.
The room melted away, as did the last traces of experience and age. She was now exactly as she was when she entered the cave. The voice they heard next was one that caught both of them like ice in their veins and up their spine.
Vision of Ulan Highmountain says: Dargrul. Listen to reason, please.
Mayla Highmountain says: Father?
Mayla ran down the tunnel toward the voice.
Voice of Rot says: Here we are, little morsel. Where it always ends. At the beginning. With rot.
The chamber was exactly as it was before the attack of the drogbar. There was no crystal. No signs of conflict. Mayla was standing right where she was next to Ulan, as was everyone else. Dargrul was close to the hammer, and there was no sign yet of what was going to happen. However, Symma was also present, way earlier than she was before.
Everyone was talking, and Dargrul was getting worked up, but he hadn’t gone for the hammer. Ulan was patiently negotiating with him, and the other chieftains were allowing the high chieftain to do what it was his job to do. Ebonhorn was nearby, only mildly concerned. Mayla knew that they had maybe a minute before Dargrul made his move, and Mayla looked over to Symma, doubt and fear and uncertainty present in her eyes.
Some of the guards look over at Rak’Symma with acknowledgement, and Symma jumped, as she realized they could see her. She looked back at Mayla, uncertain what to do.
Voice of Rot says: You can’t change this, it always begins and ends here. Always. Just let it happen.
Symma took a step forward and reached a hand forward.
Rak'Symma says: Dargrul.
Everyone stopped and stared at Rak’Symma.
Vision of Ulan Highmountain says: Skyfriend, I didn’t know you were here.
Dargrul didn’t say anything in return, but he was watching with suspicion and worry. Mayla looked over at Rak’Symma and gave her a sad smile, then shook her head. There was a moment of confusion among the leaders.
Mayla Highmountain says: Skyfriend, it’s so good to see you!
She moves past Ebonhorn and approached Rak’Symma and simply gave her a hug, accepting what was about to happen.
Mayla Highmountain whispers: I don’t think we’re supposed to change this. I don’t think we’re supposed to. Even though I want to with every fiber of my being. I know we could. But… I don’t know.
Symma leaned into the hug, breaking any strength to intervene that she had. However, she looked beyond Mayla, at Dargrul.
Rak'Symma says: You fool. You cannot trust what she says.
The chieftains react with confusion, and all their eyes were on Symma instead of Dargrul. The drogbar reached for the hammer, and before anyone could do anything, he grabbed it, and he swung it. This time, Symma got to see exactly what happened as the crystal exploded forth and carried Ulan with it. Mayla was not watching, but Symma could feel her wince, and they heard the scene unfurl exactly as it had when Rak’Symma and the warband arrived.
The scene faded, and they were once more in the cave tunnel. There was light at the end of the tunnel. They could see a pathway out, and there was sunlight glinting beyond, as well as a side passage. They knew on some intrinsic level, that they could try again, and they could maybe do better the next time. They didn’t know what they changed, or what the first vision would be, or how the future might have been better, but they could go back around.
Eche'ro was standing there between the two passageways.
Eche'ro says: Thou hast seen but one future. But thou can shapest another. Which path shall thee walk?
The warm wind came one more time, blowing towards the way out.
Voice of Rot says: None of this is real. This is just a dying dream. None of this matters. You are… going to find your winter soon, little morsel. And none of this will change that. So why not just wake up?
Symma picked up a rock and just hurled it at a wall, fed up with the cave as Mayla sank down to her knees.
Rak'Symma says: You don’t think I know that? You don’t think I haven’t spent years stuck in circles of what ifs? This is the life I’m alive for, and no matter how many times I wish I can go back, it won’t change.
Eche'ro says: Yet, thou claimeth thou have no decision over thine destiny, and who thou art.
Rak'Symma says: None of my wishes made a difference.
Eche'ro says: Has it not?
Eche'ro looked at Mayla, a woman that Symma had a direct part in saving.
Eche'ro says: Thy actions are as stones rippling through an ocean deep and grand.
Rak'Symma says: And they’ve already made their ripples.
Eche'ro says: Are thy unsatisfied with thine own impact?
Rak'Symma says: My decisions have saved your chieftain, and for that I am grateful, but for my life? I am not.
Eche'ro says: Then thou must find a bigger rock.
Rak'Symma says: And that path doesn’t lay through walking through dreams.
Eche'ro’s eyes twinkled.
Eche'ro says: You do not walk that path alone.
Rak'Symma says: No. But I dread everyone that follows me will die. And all this has shown me is that it will perpetuate regardless. Being shown cute little dreams won’t resolve that.
Eche'ro says: Then how shall thou continue on?
Rak'Symma says: Forward. The only way I can. Through living when others cannot.
Mayla Highmountain says: But what if we simply didn’t find the right answers?
Rak'Symma says: Then we could lose ourselves until you truly are ancient, and old, and broken in these caves. Or we can go out and figure it out as we go.
Mayla got to her hooves and she looked long and hard at the tunnel. She took a step towards it, but then she stopped and shook her head.
Mayla Highmountain says: You’re right, Rak’Symma. You’re right about this. If I keep chasing dreams, I won’t be able to make the decisions to help the people who are counting on me. There is no right answer, is there?
Eche’ro looked at Mayla
Eche'ro says: Right answers… wrong answers… subjective, all. The only true answer is the one that leads you forward.
Eche’ro turned and walked out of the tunnel, and into the circle of light. Mayla stepped next to Rak’Symma.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you. I think you may have just saved me again. Will you see this through to the end with me?
Symma nodded, clearly done with the entire trial. Together, they stepped out of the tunnel. The winds were wailing, and down below them, the mountainside sprawled, as they stood on the edge of the highest mountain in Highmountain. The only light they could see was the guiding light of Eche’ro and the fireflies around his antlers as he bounded up the bridges of the mountain.
The pair of them started to ascend. Symma coasted through the winter storm easily, but Mayla’s hooves trudged heavily through the snow. Rak’Symma heard the sounds of harpy laughter in the wind, but Symma shook her head and realized that it was all a part of the test. She concentrated on Mayla’s voice calling out to her, and the laughter faded into the comforting sound of the howling winds.
As they continued, Mayla carefully tried to make her away across a rickety bridge that was getting tossed by the gale. Mayla’s hoof gave out over the side, and Mayla started to tumble off the bridge. She grabbed on the edge of it, and it creaked loudly and began to wildly swing.
Mayla Highmountain shouts: Rak’Symma!
Rak’Symma momentarily panicked, but dove below her and used her magic to manipulate the storm and blow against her.
Rak'Symma says: Relax, Mayla, I got you!
Mayla Highmountain says: Alright!
Mayla released her grip to let the storm carry her up into a better position where she could dig a piton into the side of the mountain and heave herself upward.
Mayla Highmountain says: Good save!
Mayla started to climb up the side of a ledge, but one of the rocky outcroppings started to shatter, and she lost her grip on the stone. Rak’Symma tried to rapidly utilize her magic again as Mayla scrambled to regain her grip, and she almost felt another pair of talons over her own that were guiding her hands. Without fully understanding how she did it, she finished the spell, and they were both able to swim into the cliff-face and emerged on top of it.
Mayla smiled gratefully at Rak’Symma as she shook snow out of her mane.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you.
Rak'Symma says: I’ve only done that once before, and I’m so glad it worked.
Mayla Highmountain says: I don’t know how your magic works, but I know for a fact that bringing you with me was the right choice. Come on, we only have a bit further to go.
The wind started to kick up, and Rak’Symma started to lose track of Mayla. Her heart began to race, and she started to lose herself to a panic as the emotional exhaustion of the situation compounded. The fireflies flittering around Eche’ro’s antlers thought waves of support, and Symma felt some amount of resolve find hold, and she pushed through, as regardless of whether Symma thought she was the right person, Mayla did.
Symma found Mayla again, but the bitter cold started to weigh down on both of them. Symma tried to use restorative magics to bolster them from the draining effects of the cold. Nyxxa sent thoughts of good will toward them, and the torch in Mayla’s hand started to flicker more warmly with emerald fire to try and help chase off the edges of the chill.
They were able to push through, and they knew the peak was within reach, they just needed to push slightly more. They were strengthened by the memories of the celebration of passing and future, and they continued to push forward.
Suddenly, the wall of snow and wind broke, and they stared out at the summit of Highmountain Peak. The clouds were gone, and the night sky was beautiful and brilliant. A million stars twinkled down from above on the edges of the twin moons.
Standing before them was Eche’ro, his fur glowing, and a cloud of motes flickering in his antlers.
A voice that wasn’t Eche’ro’s spoke up.
Deep Voice says: Mayla Highmountain. I’ve been waiting a long time to meet you.
Some of the motes swirled and materialized into the shape of a figure. After a moment, the lights receded, and revealed the ethereal, translucent image of a brilliant and immense Highmountain tauren. He had the largest antlers Mayla had ever seen. It wasn’t Ulan, yet there was a similarity there. Mayla blinked.
Mayla Highmountain says: Huln Highmountain…
The apparition smiled.
Huln Highmountain says: You did well, Mayla. I swear, every generation, Eche'ro's trials get more and more grueling, and yet, you stand before me.
He turned and looked over Highmountain.
Huln Highmountain says: At the peak of the world. At the highest point of our own home.
Huln stepped forward and put his hand on Mayla’s shoulder.
Huln Highmountain says: You came here to prove yourself and seek the great elderhorn and his blessing. So that Talonclaw may choose you, and the people of Highmountain would recognize you. But Mayla, you have already proven that.
Mayla Highmountain says: How do you mean?
Huln gestured to Talonclaw, and the motes of light flickered and resonated through the weapon. Names began to glow up and down the spear. It was hundreds of name, carved in the spear over thousands of years. Each mote passed by one of the names.
Huln Highmountain says: Your spirit have proven more than strong enough to be worthy. Hold your head high, Mayla, for you will be every bit as great a leader as I ever was.
Mayla shook her head.
Mayla Highmountain says: How can you know that? Huln, you are… you are a legend. An inspiration. I could never live up to your expectations.
Huln Highmountain says: And yet, I thought the same when I was a youth. I can only imagine the stories told about me have accentuated details. I do not claim that I am no savior, that I am not a great warrior, but even I once looked to my betters and wondered if I would ever be enough. It is by learning from their lessons, and walking in their hoofprints, that we become greater. But your strength, your wisdom… it is something special. Just as An’she and Mu’sha guide us through the day and night, so will your own wisdom dance with those that came before, and create a dawn brighter than those before it.
Mayla Highmountain says: What must I do now?
Huln Highmountain says: The winds stagnate, and whispers from the dark gather amidst the silence. Only you can silence them, and only you can bring unity to our home. Remember the legends, Mayla, but you… your legend is only just beginning. When the wind flows anew, your path will be clear to you once more. Seek out the Sky Mother. With her kiss shall the clouds that cover this land begin to fade. You will do wonderfully, Mayla of the Highmountain.
Huln started to fade away.
Huln Highmountain says: And one favor, if it would not be too much trouble, chieftain Mayla.
Mayla Highmountain says: What is it? Anything!
Huln smiled.
Huln Highmountain says: Tell Ebonhorn I’m proud of him.
The image disappeared completely, and the lights flickered once again. But this time, they started to move around Rak’Symma. There was a warmth wrapped around her, and an unfamiliar, familiar voice whispered into her ear. It was almost like invisible arms wrapped around her in comfort. She looked down, and the arms took shape into a bright and radiant form. The shape passed through her and hovered in the air.
She saw herself, but the features were radiant and almost hard to look at or comprehend, as if she was staring at a reflection with the light right behind her.
Radiant Winged Woman says: You did wonderfully, Rak’Symma.
It was the same voice that had guided her to Thunder Totem, and had helped her help Mayla. Symma realized it was a tenuous connection, but she had five questions that she could ask her. Symma was overwhelmed and very tired, but she stumbled over her thoughts and got a question out.
Rak'Symma says: Where is Ohn’ara? Why are the eagles crying for their mother?
Radiant Winged Woman says: She is in danger. A black wind howls. Talons reaching for that which they were never meant to grasp. You must save her, for all of our sake. You know where to find her.
Rage flickered across the radiant features of the figure.
Rak'Symma says: Is yours the voice that has been calling to me?
Radiant Winged Woman says: It is. Though calling is… perhaps not the correct word for it. It is a whisper. As calling implies distance. But you are not far. You are never far.
Rak'Symma says: Did he find peace? And rest?
She was talking about Blaithe, and the figure smiled.
Radiant Winged Woman says: You brought him to winter’s edge. He dreams now. A peaceful slumber. One that only you could have given him. Thank you for being there for him at the end.
Tears started to seep down Symma’s cheeks.
Rak'Symma says: Can I trust them? The Horde? Those that have come to our shores? Can I trust them?
Radiant Winged Woman says: I do not know. I cannot answer that for you, for only you can make such a judgment call. But trust your instincts and know that these people seek a common goal. Or so it seems. Trust your instincts. Trust your eyes and your ears, just like he taught you. He will guide you. He has always guided you.
Symma calmed and smiled faintly.
Rak'Symma says: What can I call you? So that I can thank you properly?
Radiant Winged Woman says: I’ve had many names. I’m the you that was. The you that could have been. The you that may still be. But you… you may call me Rak’Symma. For that is who you are. The Mother of the Storm.
The figure approached her again and wrapped her arms around Rak’Symma in a close embrace, and then she vanished in a glitter of lights and magic. The lights grew brighter and brighter, and the tattoo on Rak’Symma’s back began to grow, and then glow.
Eche'ro says: Daughter of Highmountain… Mother of the Storm… thou hast done well. Thou shalt do even greater.
The light grew brighter and brighter until the entire peak was a blinding sea. When it faded, they were all in the glade where they first found Ech’ero, and he was nowhere to be found. Those that were fireflies were no longer fireflies.
The first thing Symma saw was an eagle’s nest with a familiar baby bird in it. Its mother flew back down to it, and the baby bird look at Rak’Symma.
Eagle Hatchling says: Thank you for the adventure! I can’t wait to meet you again.
Mother Eagle says: What are you talking about, little one? You’ve been here the whole time.
Eagle Hatchling says: It was a good dream mom. I’m safe.
The mother eagle cocked her head, confused, and Symma raised a finger to her lips with a soft croon.
Nyxxa ran up to Mayla and gave her a big hug as she congratulated her.
Mayla Highmountain says: I didn’t think I could be more exhausted than I was last night, but it seems my adventures alongside all you have a tendency of becoming exceptionally taxing. How much did all of you see?
Sol'chi says: Yes.
Zar'Kaa says: Everything.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: But your secret is safe with us. Right everyone?
Mayla Highmountain says: Seems Eche’ro has a sense of humor. But thank you all, I don’t think we could have made it without your help.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Well, we were encouraging you, but you both were incredibly. And deserve to sit down.
Zar'Kaa says: Take a rest.
Zar’Kaa went over to Symma.
Zar'Kaa says: Glad you found that eye.
Rak'Symma says: You do realize the eye of the storm is the most dangerous place to be, right?
Zar'Kaa says: That’s why you go for it.
Zekhan says: It definitely seems you thrived there.
Zar'Kaa says: Indeed.
Zar’Kaa got his medical kit out to take a look at Mayla and Rak’Symma, and it seemed any of their physical injuries were gone. Thisalee stepped forward.
Thisalee Crow says: Rak’Symma… who was that figure? The woman who spoke with you?
Rak'Symma says: The only name she gave me was my own.
Thisalee Crow says: I… don’t know what this means.
Rak'Symma says: I wish I had better answers for you, but I don’t either.
Thisalee Crow says: The mark on your back… it began to glow.
Symma tilted her head.
Rak'Symma says: What mark?
Thisalee Crow says: You don’t know about it?
Sol'chi says: You never noticed?
Rak'Symma says: I’m not an owl.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: It is very hard to see on your back.
Sol'chi says: Right. Not everyone has mirrors.
Thisalee Crow says: It looks like this!
Thisalee produced a wooden charm with the same symbol engraved on it.
Thisalee Crow says: I know it well. It’s the symbol of Aviana. Of the Mother of Flight. The Mistress of the Skies… she’s an ancient that druids of the talon like myself revere. One of many, but one of the greatest.
Symma blinked.
Zar'Kaa says: So you got touched by a wild god, huh?
Rak'Symma says: Wouldn’t be the first time. I was raised by one.
Thisalee Crow says: What was his name? I’m sorry, I know you didn’t want to talk about it…
Rak'Symma says: His name was Blaithe.
Thisalee’s eyes widened.
Thisalee Crow says: Blaithe was very dear to Aviana…
Rak'Symma says: Maybe that’s something we have in common, because he was very dear to me too.
Thisalee Crow says: If… once we handle everything here. Once we… punish the High Crawliac. Once we help the Highmountain. Will you come back with me to the Dreamgrove? There may be someone there that knows more, that may be able to figure out what that marking is about and why you have it… I’m just an apprentice, but if a real druid of the talon was able to look at you, maybe even a Keeper… maybe they might have an answer.
Symma regarded Thisalee.
Rak'Symma says: It wasn’t even a question I thought to ask… but if it feels important, then I suppose?
Thisalee moved forward.
Thisalee Crow says: Of course it is! Rak’Symma… Aviana’s been gone. She died during the War of the Ancients.
Rak'Symma says: Most of them did.
Thisalee Crow says: And now you’re here bearing her mark. That has to mean something!
Zar'Kaa says: What do you think it means?
Thisalee Crow says: I have no idea. But it can’t be a coincidence. The fact that you bear her mark, that her beloved consort raised you?
Rak'Symma says: The fact demons are walking the isles again…
Sol waved.
Thisalee Crow says: You don’t have to come. I have no right forcing you. But if you want to look into this… I want to be able to try and help, okay? If you want to know more about whatever that was about. What did she say? None of us could hear…
Rak'Symma says: She answered some questions I had. Some of which were personal, the others… are tied to where we are already going. Crawliac is a bigger problem than I thought her to be.
Thisalee Crow says: What else has she done?
Symma looked up at the eagle family.
Rak'Symma says: She is why the winds are still. And why the air is thin. And why wings must work twice as hard to move.
Thisalee took her head.
Thisalee Crow says: We can’t allow her to get away with this. We’re going to stop her, and I don’t care what that vision said. I’m not going to let you sacrifice your life to make it happen. We’re going to take her down.
Symma was too tired to argue.
Lantresor says: Indeed. But before that, it may be smart for us to rest. It’s been a long life this day.
Mayla nodded and smiled.
Mayla Highmountain says: Yeah.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I can make some warm food for everyone.
Sol'chi says: And I can set up some accommodations, and make some adjustments to let people feel more at ease.
Zar'Kaa says: I’ll help you with the food, Nyxxa. I’ll try not to spice it up this time.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I think some spice might be good! It was a rather cold trial, and even I felt the chill.
Zar'Kaa says: Won’t say I didn’t warn you.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: We can do both!
Mayla Highmountain says: Tomorrow we can make our way towards Talon Peak and learn if the Unseen Path of Trueshot Lodge discovered anything.
Zar'Kaa says: Maybe we’ll meet with my people there. It’ll be great for you to meet the rest of the crew.
Mayla Highmountain says: I look forward to it. But tonight, I’m going to eat, and then sleep a great deal.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: You deserve it!
Sol opened up the [Magnificent Mansion], and this time it was more open-concept and more natural to try and appease the more naturalistic-inclined of the group. Nyxxa and Zar’Kaa worked to make some food, and Nyxxa occupied herself making the food cute. Zar’Kaa commented she needed to move on to snowflakes next, though Nyxxa mused a snowflake cutter might be hard to make.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Though, as I said earlier, I wanted to get your help with something not food-related.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. What can I help you with?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I’ve been thinking about something you said… and I think it’s about time that I face my own anger. That said, in the process of doing so, as each time I attempted it, I have hurt myself. So I wanted to ask for your help so that I don’t do anything that’s permanently damaging. I would appreciate your medical expertise is what I’m saying.
Zar’Kaa furrowed his brow.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. Well. Could you be more specific?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: When I let myself be angry, I lose control. And when I lose control, I stop thinking about what I’m doing.
Nyxxa held up her hands.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: The scars won’t be there anymore, but, lets just say last time Levia had to pull glass out of them, and I assume you can make assumptions from there.
Zar'Kaa says: Wow. Loa be damned. That’s awful. But you’re asking about how to control your anger and make it something useful?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: More facing it. Tonight, at least, I want to prove to myself that if I lose control, I’m not going to do permanent damage. Of course, if I’m wrong, others have healing magic, and I’ve already asked Levia. I am taking a leap of faith here, and this is the first step. Plus, this may be a good time to have a conversation with someone I’ve been avoiding,.
Zar'Kaa says: You’re talking about the guy inside you? Vaerux?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Yeah. While I’m angry at Delas for what happened, I know he’s the one that’s responsible for the chain of events that transpired. More than she ever will be or was.
Zar'Kaa says: Seems you got a list. Vaerux. Delas.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: It’s complicated.
Zar'Kaa says: And I’m not prying into your business. I can only tell you what has worked for me? If that’ll help.
Zar’Kaa drew his spear and ran his hand along the blade’s edge.
Zar'Kaa says: I made this spear when I was young. All by myself. I think it was the first time that I ever thought about what I would do when I wanted to kill someone. At the time, I thought what I needed was a spear. Or a weapon, broadly. But I realized I already had a weapon. My anger. When I use it the right way, when I find the way to channel it, it becomes something useful. Something I can weaponize. A storm, if you will. So maybe for you, confronting that anger may not just be about facing it and understanding it, but figuring out what you can do with it. I’m not going to make any judgments about why it’s there, but I have to guess it’s not going away, just as that asshole inside you isn’t going away.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I don’t think emotions like that can. It’s a core part of who I am. But when you put it like that, it makes anger sound like the fel. Powerful, but dangerous primarily if you forget it can burn you. I am no stranger to the fel as you can imagine. But I need to take this first step. Thank you for the guidance. Will you help me?
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. I will. As you said, it’s a part of who we are. A lot of people can’t, in my experience, tolerate anger, even when you’ve got a right to be. Even when you’re showing it in an appropriate way. So… whatever your anger looks like to you, I won’t judge. But if I can say something in addition?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: What’s that?
Zar'Kaa says: It’s not an easy thing to confront it, so I see it. Your efforts. And I see you.
Nyxxa smiled broadly.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Thank you. Just so you know, I’m trying to see you too. You don’t have to trust me, but I want to see more. I won’t assume I know you, I know you don’t like that, but when you’re ready, I want to see you too.
Zar’Kaa looked away, and Nyxxa couldn’t read his expression, but she got the sense that the statement reminded him of something.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Lets get everyone fed.
Zar’Kaa shook his head to clear it and agreed. They got the food served to everyone, and as the meal finished up, they caught Mayla with a small whittling knife. She had Talonclaw, and it appeared she was carving something into the shaft alongside all the names on it.
Sol'chi says: Whatcha up to?
Mayla Highmountain says: Adding another name to Talonclaw. The names on the spear are past chieftains and friends of Highmountain, and in some cases great enemies. In a lot of ways, this spear is like a living history of our land.
Sol'chi says: Past wielders?
Mayla Highmountain says: Past wielders, my ancestors, and those that fought alongside them.
Sol'chi says: Amazing! Do you know whose name was first? Was it Huln?
Mayla Highmountain says: It’s actually older. The first person was actually one of our earliest ancestors, many generations before the War of the Ancients. His name was ??? Highmountain. It was said he once saved the Wind Mother Ohn’ara, and she was the one to bless his spear. From then on, his descendants would seek out the blessings of the great gods of the land. Ohn’ara, the bear god Ursoc, the Earth God Neltharion, the Forest Good Cenarius, and Eche’ro like we did today. It was passed down many generations until it was given to Huln. It was said this spear has fought beasts of fire and shadow, demons and dragons and everything in between.
There were hundreds upon hundreds of names on the spear, though not all were shu’halo.
Sol'chi says: Amazing. I’m glad your people have held onto it.
Mayla Highmountain says: For a while it was lost, but we were able to recover it. One of my ancestors fell to a fierce saber. My father was actually the one that recovered it. It was lost for a while, but it has returned to our family, and I’m going to ensure it isn’t lost again.
Sol'chi says: I believe you can, just like I believed you’d complete that trial.
Mayla Highmountain says: And you were right.
Sol'chi says: If Thisalee said that was Aviana and she died during the War of the Ancients, maybe she’s coming back? Maybe you can get those blessings from before. I was told a lot of the wild gods died.
Mayla Highmountain says: It was said many gave their lives, but there are still many more around. It is believed that once they die the spirits join the Earthmother’s embrace, and from her dreams more come. A cycle of rebirth. I don’t know much about it. I do know that Ohn’ara, the great eagle, she just watches over Highmountain, though I fear she may be in danger. Rak’Symma… seems concerned. But if anyone has information, I’m sure our friends at Trueshot Lodge will, and if they don’t, Lasan will.
Sol'chi says: Indeed. I hope that can resolve well. Also! I have a plan for a gift for Ebonhorn if you would mind assisting?
Mayla Highmountain says: I’d be glad to!
Sol'chi says: I was going to make it on my own, but if you and Rak’Symma help it would mean more.
Sol explained he wanted to make figures of a young Ebonhorn and Huln for him.
Mayla Highmountain says: That sounds incredible! I’d love to help. Anything that could bring a smile to Ebba’s face. I’m adept at whittling, and I’ll try to think of some other ideas too!
After Mayla finished whittling the spear, they went to talk to Rak’Symma.
Before they arrived, Rexxar had come to sit next to Symma.
Rexxar says: You did well.
Rak'Symma says: You helped!
Rexxar furrowed his brow.
Rak'Symma says: You, through Nisha, were there with us.
Rexxar chuffed.
Rexxar says: Nisha knew you would be fine. But she… wanted to help. I can’t stop her.
Symma squeezed Rexxar’s arm in thanks, and Rexxar looked at his arm for a while. He sat in silence for a bit before he bid her goodnight to rest amongst his beasts.
Mayla arrived and showed her the name she had whittled into it: it was Symma’s name.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you.
Rak'Symma says: …Mayla. Thank you.
Mayla Highmountain says: You’ve more than earned it.
Rak'Symma says: Your trust means more than you will ever know.
Mayla Highmountain says: And your friendship to me.
Rak'Symma says: Laughably, I would rise to hug you. But one, it would make me cry, and two, I can’t feel my legs.
Mayla sat down next to the rock and leaned her head against Symma’s leg.
Mayla Highmountain says: I think this is fine.
Symma scratched Mayla’s head with her talons, and Mayla sat, content.
Eventually, Nyxxa gathered Levia, Arthak, Sol, Lantresor, and Zar’Kaa, and she entered the rage room. Levia was trying really hard not to glower at Zar’Kaa.
A part of Nyxxa didn’t want to let the walls she had built up down, and she was actively trying to get angry. It was kind of working, but then Vaerux spoke up.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: I thought you were going to let loose, but this looks like a training exercise.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Maybe what I need is talking to you.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: I do get under your skin.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Yeah, especially given you are running out of things to hold over my head. Got to get what you can, right?
Vaerux says [telepathically]: You think I’m out of everything?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: No. There’s still what actually happened. Looks like you’re lucky you’re the only one that knows.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: What would it change? You still made your decision.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: And look where it got me.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: Yet you’re still trying to chase a cure. Like it’ll fix anything. What do you think you’re going to find? Or should I call you Nhemai now?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Nyxxa. Nhemai is dead, and you killed her. Or I suppose we did. But I’m getting the suspicion I wouldn’t have needed to make that decision had you not put me up to it.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: Still putting everything on me.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Not everything, but enough. I know enough to know your hands were on this, and I am damned tired of you spinning all this on me. I know the decisions I made. But you’re the one that turned me, and you’re the one that abandoned me to die alone. And you’re the reason I find another scar I need to fix, or just live with.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: We all have to live with our scars.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: But that doesn’t change what you were responsible for. And I figured you’d appreciate taking full credit for your handiwork. Because I did a lot to break myself, but you broke me too. And you put Delas in the position–
Vaerux shouts [telepathically]: I SAVED you. I saved you!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: From what?! What the kaldorei are? What you think I should be?
Vaerux says [telepathically]: No. I saved you. From her.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: You better explain yourself.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: You’re not the only one that made sacrifices, Nyxxa. You’re not the only ones that’s had to make tough decisions.
Nyxxa Murkthorn shouts: I’m all ears! Because this is the first time I’m hearing this. I’m listening if you tell me, but you never do!
Nyxxa had started to rip into things. At the start, she was using a weapon, but now she was using her hands to the point she was starting to bleed. Her eyes were blazing.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I want to hear from you what you sacrificed because from what you said, satyrs don’t sacrifice anything!
Vaerux says [telepathically]: That’s because it wasn’t when I was a satyr. None of this was from when I was a satyr. But staying… with Delas… would only bring you misery. But that’s my fault too.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Why is that?
Vaerux says [telepathically]: Because it was the only way I could make sure she survived.
