[Horde] Chapter Five: Session Twenty-Five
Appearing Characters: Arthak Saurfang, Levia Blackflight, Mayla Highmountain, Nyxxa Murkthorn, Rak'Symma, Sol'chi, Thisalee Crow, Vaerux, Zar'Kaa
November 16th
The following morning, there was food aplenty and even some harpies were still hanging around but gradually they fully departed. The Skywhisker kobolds had left fairly early in the morning.
Mayla had woken up fairly early and went out to start training by running up and down the cliff and similar stamina work. Rak’Symma had found her and they spent some time talking. Arthak had approached and watched them for a moment, but then cleared his throat.
Arthak Saurfang says: Mayla. Rak’Symma.
Mayla Highmountain says: Oh! Arthak!
Mayla tossed the boulder aside she was using as a weight and wiped her brow.
Arthak Saurfang says: I see I’m not the only one who favors an early start.
Mayla Highmountain says: Given we’re heading to the Bloodtotem soon, I figured it would best. I want to make sure I’m up to whatever challenge is in store. Knowing him, it’ll be a physical one. So!
Mayla sat down to catch her breath.
Mayla Highmountain says: I figured I’d be ready for anything.
Arthak Saurfang says: Sensible. Well. I do not wish to keep you from your preparations, but there was something I wished to discuss. Something that actually involves you, Rak’Symma.
Mayla Highmountain says: Is this about Dargrul?
Arthak Saurfang says: Related, you can say.
Arthak withdrew a document and passed it to Mayla.
Arthak Saurfang says: This is an idea I had. The fact of the matter is that this conflict we are here for, against the Legion, is likely going to pull every faction and people into itself. From what I’ve observed, the peoples here seem to be like the isles themselves. Spread apart. Isolated in ways. You have neighbors, but you don’t interact with them much or know them well.
Mayla Highmountain says: It is true. The typical contacts with the vrykul are trade if we’re lucky, but sometimes skirmishes. We tend not to step within the sacred groves of the kaldorei to the west. Outside those who have a gift of speech of the woods, few of us are wont to risk offending them.
Arthak Saurfang says: And yet, without conversation, communication, and understanding, it’s easy to accidentally cause offense. To have skirmishes and sometimes they can escalate. What I am getting at, I wrote out an idea. Much like the Horde is made up of different clans with their own cultures and beliefs, perhaps the Broken Isles may benefit from something similar. A union of the different nations and peoples and cultures, not subject to each other, but come together to work out matters of territory, trade, mutual defense, and mutual benefit. A way to prevent future wars. A way to defend yourselves from outside threats.
Mayla looked over the document to get a rough idea of what Arthak was taking about, and read out some details for Rak’Symma to hear as well.
Mayla Highmountain says: I will admit that some of these ideas are like you pulled them from my own mind and made them make more sense. I’ve already been thinking of the security of Highmountain, especially after the trial that Eche’ro showed us, and after experiencing everything… I had already had the seed planted, but I believe it bloomed last evening when we saw shu’halo and kobolds and even harpies sharing the same tankards and enjoying the same songs. There have been noticeable exceptions obviously, but the concept of true peace between our peoples seemed impossible for so long. Yet I believe we may be closer to sparking that now more than ever. It’s so strange that the threat of another demonic invasion and the intervention of those touched and including demons has helped to cause it. I will not lie and say I have considered going beyond the borders of Highmountain. My concerns have been local, and even now, the security of Highmountain has driven me to come with you on this journey… but the many people in Highmountain have not been given the opportunities, and I have to wonder if that’s what drove Dargrul to do what he did. I’ve been thinking of the concept of peace, of breaking bread with the drogbar… I will not lie, at times my heart burns thinking about it. But… vengeance wouldn’t solve anything. I think I’m seeing that now. As hard as it might be, I want to try to find a peaceful solution.
Arthak Saurfang says: I intend to help.
Mayla Highmountain says: I appreciate that. This is very helpful, and it will help me get my own thoughts in order. While we’ve had amicable relations with the elves, they have remained a mystery to us. I believe they like it that way. But I believe even they may find some value in what we can create here. Trade would be a good first step. As for the vrykul clans… well. Once this is all done, I suppose the best thing to do is send an envoy.
Arthak Saurfang says: Indeed.
Mayla Highmountain says: I understand that you have intentions to go to Stormheim eventually, correct?
Arthak Saurfang says: Correct.
Mayla Highmountain says: I believe I know just the person I could send. I was already considering them along with you to keep in contact, to act as an intermediary, to send birds and resources, but likewise, if we can feed two eagles with one stone, perhaps in time we could exchange more goods and services. I’ve been told they are known for brewing an exceptional array of alcohols, I’m sure Lasan would be thrilled to sample them. But thank you for these ideas. I can’t say all of them will work, but it’ll be something to work off of.
Arthak Saurfang says: That is the intention. Ultimately, I can provide ideas, but this is not something I should build. That is for you, and for others.
Mayla smiled.
Mayla Highmountain says: That’s very considerate. What do you think, Rak’Symma? I know you’ve only just begun a much longer journey, but it is one that will take you beyond the boundaries of Highmountain. Do you think your people would be amenable to such ideas?
Rak’Symma sighed and ran a hand back through her feathers.
Rak'Symma says: It… will be a long discussion. Part of the issues with the harpies over the years have been over territory, and they are not a people who can deal with hard lines to that territory as the climate change. But moreover, a good way to win them over is that we care about where we come from. Trade may come, but I think the upheavals to come may be the best way to convince minds.
Mayla Highmountain says: I wager it will be a long process and a longer discussion, and a loud one as well! But if anyone can do it, I believe you might be the one to do so, and you won’t be alone. I want to see this. I want to see a better Highmountain. Our ancestors did wonderful things, but we can always make it a place that’s even better. I believe that if anything was evidence of that, it’s what we’ve already done. A hundred years ago… I don’t think someone like you and someone like me could ever stand on equal ground or speak as friends, yet here we are.
Rak’Symma smiled, but bit her tongue from saying anything more.
Mayla Highmountain says: In spite of everything, this is also not a one way path.
Rak'Symma says: I think everyone is going to need something different.
Mayla Highmountain says: And I believe just as much needs to be said and given to the harpies as in reverse. This place has been their home, and those beyond the borders of this place the same way. It doesn’t matter where the conflict originated from, what matters is that we can do something about it now. I think that’s important.
Rak’Symma looked at Arthak.
Rak'Symma says: I will do my best with the harpies, but I don’t know if I’m the best face to put forward if you intend to talk to the elves or other regions. The harpies are spread throughout, and I do not know them, but our plight is universal.
Arthak Saurfang says: We have a druid who can vouch for you. That counts for something. And sometimes it’s not about putting the best face forward, it’s about showing people how to understand the same face differently. I think you would be perfect for it.
Rak’Symma looked at him sheepishly and Mayla put a hand on her shoulder.
Mayla Highmountain says: I know you don’t need me to tell you this, but you have a lot to think about. If you ever need to bounce ideas or speak with… or even scream at! That’s the least I can do. And I get the sense that if you needed someone to bounce ideas off of or inspire you…
Mayla looked at Arthak with a smile.
Mayla Highmountain says: Given he made these ideas unprompted, I get the sense he might be a good person to workshop with.
Rak'Symma says: Arthak has already been very forthcoming with his ideas.
Arthak Saurfang says: If you can, if you’re sending envoys we can ferry them as we go about our business, and I can assist with getting as many people to the table as possible.
Mayla Highmountain says: Well, I certainly appreciate it. Highmountain is lucky to have met you and all of your friends. I will think on this. Perhaps once I’ve fully tired myself out, I can start sketching up some ideas of my own.
Arthak Saurfang says: I look forward to seeing them. In that case, I’ll leave you to your training. I have other business to see to today.
Mayla nodded.
Mayla Highmountain says: An’she guide you, Arthak.
Arthak Saurfang says: Earthmother watch over you, Mayla.
Rak’Symma watched Arthak go, but gradually actually started to follow after him.
Rak'Symma says: Thank you.
Arthak Saurfang says: There’s no need.
Rak'Symma says: No, there is. It’s… for you to have confidence in me, thank you. It’s not all, but it means a great deal that you do.
Arthak Saurfang says: What I do is observe. To watch and to think and to understand as best I can. Most of the time, that means people.
Rak'Symma says: I was going to volunteer that expedient envoys would be the harpies themselves, but that may not be the best plan.
Arthak Saurfang says: Perhaps not now. But who is to say?
Rak'Symma says: All I mean, is that there’s a good chance they would be shot down before the message is conveyed.
Arthak Saurfang says: I gathered. So maybe not now.
Rak'Symma says: I wanted to ask you something unrelated.
Arthak Saurfang says: By all means.
Rak'Symma says: Given last night’s… conversation that I could only play audience to, I’m hesitant to ask, but is there anything you could tell me about Iskar? The one who appeared yesterday?
Arthak considered. Shadow-Lord Iskar was originally an adherent of Rukhmar, a group of sun worshipers in the midst of arakkoa society. At some point, he was exiled from his culture and was transformed into one of the outcasts–the broken and hunched arakkoa that lost their ability to fly. Iskar was also one of the arakkoa who, at some point, helped the Horde bring down the adherents of Rukhmar. Unfortunately, many of them did not get the best treatment after, but Iskar at least had been elevated to the Shadow Council and had been somehow regiven his form as a high arakkoa. Arthak was unsure of the nature of that process. Arthak informed Rak’Symma of everything he knew as they walked, including the fact the arakkoa had a weapon that could channel the sun into devastating blasts of energy.
Rak'Symma says: I can’t imagine the idea of using the power of a god to reap destruction…
Arthak Saurfang says: A more common response than you would think.
Rak'Symma says: But Gul’dan is a problem?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. So is Iskar, it seems.
Rak'Symma says: Hm.
Rak’Symma appeared to be processing the information.
Rak'Symma says: Are the other arakkoa here?
Arthak Saurfang says: Some. Unfortunately, many were enslaved after the fall of their civilization to the Horde. Now, those who remained with my part of the Horde are now free, but I cannot say the same for any with Gul’dan’s faction that are not part of the Shadow Council or otherwise useful. I don’t know if they have any with them. There are a few with the rest of my people on the isles, with the Iron March.
Rak’Symma returned to a pensive expression.
Arthak Saurfang says: They are led by a scholar by the name of Reshad, I believe. We’ve only spoken in passing.
Rak’Symma’s eyes lit up and she offered a wry laugh.
Rak'Symma says: Seems I have another reason to follow you a bit longer.
Arthak Saurfang says: The presence of the arakkoa?
Rak'Symma says: I’ve never seen anything else like them.
Arthak Saurfang says: To be fair, a few days ago you haven’t seen anything like me either.
Rak'Symma says: No, but you don’t have feathers and wings. I’ve never seen another standing people who could take to the skies. I’ve never seen anyone else like us.
Arthak Saurfang says: I do not believe most of them can take flight.
Rak’Symma continued to follow Arthak for some time, periodically asking more about the arakkoa.
While Rak’Symma was following Arthak, she wound up spying Zar’Kaa as he was going over some notes.
Rak'Symma says: Um. Zar’Kaa?
Zar’Kaa looked up at her.
Zar'Kaa says: Rak’Symma. Hey.
Rak'Symma says: You look better rested after yesterday.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. What rest I got was adequate. How are you?
Rak'Symma says: Likely as fine as I’m going to be.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. At least this part of it is over.
Rak'Symma says: There is that. I don’t know how to kindly ask this, but are you alright? I only ask because the conversation that was had was intense.
Zar’Kaa maintained a steady expression.
Zar'Kaa says: It’s not just how these things tend to go, but it’s been the bulk of my experience with the Horde so far. You can say I’m getting used to it.
Rak’Symma looked a bit sheepish.
Zar'Kaa says: Look, Symma, you can come out and say it, okay? I’m giving you the go ahead, I guess.
Rak'Symma says: It’s not that, it’s just that I don’t you, and I don’t know where you come from. So what was said last night didn’t have much context for me. So if there’s anything you’d like me to know, you can tell me.
Zar’Kaa pondered for a moment.
Zar'Kaa says: I guess I’m wondering where this is coming from, you know? What’s so interesting about me?
Rak'Symma says: The only way I know you is someone who wants to help, and it seems everyone was piling on. It didn’t seem fair, but I also don’t know what’s going on.
Zar'Kaa says: Maybe I can start with the recent history. The time I first met the Horde, and then take it from there?
Rak'Symma says: You don’t need to be an open book, but if you’re willing to share, I’d be happy to listen.
Zar'Kaa says: Alright. I, as you’ve ascertained, am not a member of the Horde, nor are any Darkspear, the tribe to which I belong. We were out on the sea. Many of our people had been displaced by the long war that happened several generations ago. I wasn’t alive for it. We were scattered and separated. Recently, we’ve begun to rejoin our people. In that spirit, I was one of the people who urged us to go further and find more of us in the world. I was given a task, a crew, and a ship, and we set off to find some of those people. We did find some of them, and we also found the Horde. Ever since then, everything has been much more complicated.
Rak'Symma says: I know my isles aren’t where you’d want to be, but I can’t thank you enough for being here.
Zar’Kaa shook his head.
Zar'Kaa says: You don’t need to thank me–
Rak'Symma says: We’ve had this conversation before, and yes I do.
Zar'Kaa says: Alright, I guess I can’t stop you. But look, you don’t know me yet, and you don’t know anyone else in the Horde. I have my own feelings about them. But at the same time I don’t know if it would be fair for me to speak on their behalf. You know, to just give you my assessment.
Rak'Symma says: That’s also why I’m speaking to you about you.
Zar'Kaa says: I’ll put it this way, we’ve had a number of disagreements about how I’ve wanted to proceed, and how they’ve wanted to. Granted, a few of those times they’ve been… correct. And then there have been times they haven’t been. At least about me. They just seem very keen on telling me what I should do or what I need, instead of just asking me. It’s like they think knowing me for a month they have all me figured out, and they don’t. What you saw last night is a product of that. It can be difficult to explain myself when I know that most if not all what I say is going to be dismissed or rejected out of hand.
Rak'Symma says: I can understand your hesitations. Part of why I wanted to speak to you is because part of how you carry yourself is almost like a wounded animal.
Zar’Kaa frowned.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m just fine.
Rak'Symma says: Can I ask you something about last night?
Zar'Kaa says: You may not get the answer you want, but sure, go for it.
Rak'Symma says: Is there a reason you’re approaching Gul’dan about this power he touts? And I mean this question in the most simple way. Is it simply for power, or some other reason?
Zar'Kaa says: I’m trying to think of a way you’d understand. Okay. Your power, as far as I can tell, comes from your gods? Your spirits? The ones you show reverence to?
Rak'Symma says: …more or less.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay, so you need to ask for it. You need to show devotion. You need to show faith to receive these blessings, and that translates to what you use in your life? I’ve never been keen on doing the same with my people’s gods. They’re a bunch of assholes, to be quite frank with you. But the fel’s different. At least, from what I can tell. It’s chaos incarnate, yeah, but there is a way to control it. You can see it in what Nyxxa and Levia do, and in a number of other people. It’s a power I don’t need to ask for. And I know how I would intend to use it. Not in the same way that a lot of these other wielders of the fel typically do. But there’s another part of it too. Coming to Gul’dan, asking him to show me what the fel is and how to control it, that’s my in. If I weren’t doing so, I think he would be even more suspicious than he perhaps already is. It’s an alibi. So yeah, it’s not just about me taking this power, regardless of what other people allege, that is the truth.
Rak’Symma nodded.
Rak'Symma says: I… know nothing of the fel other than what I’ve heard and seen already. I know how it feels second-hand to watch what happens in its wake. Nyxxa seems very sweet, but seeing what she can do and what the power does… seeing the destruction it can sow… seeing what it can do to people if just in the cost of using it… but if it’s a power like that that drove Crawliac to the point she was, I only urge you to use it with caution.
Zar’Kaa sighed.
Zar'Kaa says: Look, I know you’re coming from a good place, alright? But I’m not Crawliac. I’m not a demon. I am still learning about it as well. I got this, okay? I’m not going to run rampant with the fel and just start doing unspeakable horrors with it. I didn’t do all the shit like on Draenor. Which you should ask about, by the way. I’m not going to end up like Crawliac, okay?
Rak'Symma says: …Can you promise me that? I know you owe me nothing. But I don’t know if I can stand seeing that power turn someone like that again.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. I promise you. It’s not going to overtake me. I’m not going to get someone else burned because of this.
Rak’Symma looked worried and afraid in a general sense.
Zar'Kaa says: And there it is.
Rak'Symma says: It’s not just you, Zar’Kaa. I genuinely did want to hear your side, and still do. I’m still learning how to go about all this… alone is too strong a word, but that’s how it feels to me. I’m still learning how to feel safe on my own and who to trust.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. I haven’t lived your life, but that makes sense. But if you’re trying to weed out treachery, I guess, that’s not the type of person I am. When I make a commitment and decide to have someone’s back, I’m all in, okay? So even if it doesn’t feel like you can trust me yet, I’m just letting you know you can, okay?
Rak’Symma offered a wary smile.
Zar'Kaa says: Look at it this way, Crawliac made you feel the most unsafe, right?
Rak'Symma says: I wish it were that simple a feeling.
Zar’Kaa looked quizzical, but then shook it off.
Zar'Kaa says: Look. It’s a safer world without her in it, right? And, yeah, all the things she put you through, which I don’t even know the full extent of… at least some of that is over now. I’m not saying this to dismiss your feelings, you know, it’s more that I hope that as one day passes and you remind yourself she’s absent, it’ll help to extinguish that fear and help you to feel safer. Whether it’s here, with us, or anywhere.
Rak’Symma nodded and made to bid farewell. Zar’Kaa thanked her for asking about him as people frequently didn’t.
Sometime later, Arthak approached Zar’Kaa, who had gone back to where he was staying. He had laid out his map and was trying to triangulate some things.
Arthak Saurfang says: Captain.
Zar'Kaa says: Warchief.
Zar’Kaa looked at the lantern in Arthak’s hand.
Zar'Kaa says: Assuming this is a follow up from last night?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. Since you are going to be interacting with the elder in the coming days, there’s a protocol we established before when it was me dealing with him.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay.
Arthak Saurfang says: Simply put, while I was part of the Council and working with Gul’dan, we felt it safest to assume anything I knew he’d find out. He has the magics and cunning, so I was left out of the loop on sensitive matters. Since you are taking this path, it’s going to be necessary to revive that protocol. It is not a matter of distrusting you, it is understanding how effective Gul’dan is at what he does.
Zar’Kaa set down his tool and rested his fist on the table, and nodded.
Zar'Kaa says: I think that makes a lot of sense. I don’t like it, but I think it makes sense.
Arthak Saurfang says: We have never particularly liked it either. But. As you said.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay, so, what is this going to look like then? Is there going to be some… what is it that I will and won’t be able to know?
Arthak Saurfang says: Essentially anything that we cannot allow the elder to find out about. So, anything we need to talk about or do that demands absolute secrecy, that demands his complete ignorance. It means there will be conversations that we will have to ask you to be elsewhere, or we will have to have them without you.
Zar'Kaa says: That’s going to end up being… a lot of conversations then.
Arthak Saurfang says: Potentially, though ultimately the nature of divination magic being what it is, we have to accept that the elder is going to know a lot. That’s the point of this. The elder is good at finding things out and knowing things. Frankly, we are not having to operate in secrecy now. We no longer need to pretend to be on their side. It should be less prevalent than before, but you should be made aware of it.
Zar’Kaa nodded again.
Zar'Kaa says: After last night, I didn’t think I’d be saying it so soon, but thank you.
Arthak Saurfang says: Appreciate it, but no need. This is just what we have to do.
Zar'Kaa says: It is all in the name of winning this fight. Hence why I’m doing this at all. Even if I have to be subject to this protocol, it is still in the name of the overarching goal.
Arthak Saurfang says: Okay.
Zar'Kaa says: In the interest of being honest, I have a couple ideas you might be interested in.
Arthak Saurfang says: Of course. I’d be interested to hear them.
Zar’Kaa waved Arthak over to the map and he pointed to a few locations in Azsuna.
Zar'Kaa says: These are some locations that the hordes of withered have been seen. They tend to move in large packs. I can’t tell if there’s any pattern or clock they run on. I’m starting to wonder if there’s a way we can weaponize them. It’s harder to operate if we have them to contend with. However, if we can find a way to point them towards the same targets we have, it creates a fire that the Legion has to put out. In turn, it might be a thing that will distract Gul’dan. I don’t have a fully formed idea yet, but… well, I’ll put it this way. I started to learn some things about the Red Mist, and what I’ve learned from Gul’dan so far, it just seems eerily similar to the withered, so I’m thinking that by getting more information, some of that knowledge could be applied to the withered as well. We could maybe find a way to sic them on the Legion instead.
Arthak Saurfang says: An interesting notion.
Zar'Kaa says: No promises, but I’ll start thinking some way to go about this. In the meantime, I plan to send my crew to Azsuna next. I don’t think my crew needs to be here, so if I send the bulk to these locations, we could look for prime locations for the Iron March soldiers to strike. A sort of quick victory here and there. Another fire for the Legion to put out.
Arthak Saurfang says: Scouting will be good, and they are your crew captain, so, if they can provide my forces with intelligence, they’ll have my thanks.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. A smaller force can move faster and get in and out before getting caught or getting into a fight they can’t win based on numbers.
Arthak Saurfang says: Indeed.
Zar'Kaa says: There is another ripple though. Given the communications protocol, it may not be safe for Volrath to dream me anymore. In that case, would you be okay if I directed that to you?
Arthak Saurfang says: If that would help you, then yes.
Zar'Kaa says: I’d say I don’t want to take away from your sleep, but I frankly don’t think that’s possible.
Arthak Saurfang says: I get plenty.
Zar'Kaa says: If by plenty you mean none, then yeah. But this is to ensure their safety as well. I know we’re fighting a war, but I can’t let any of them die.
Arthak Saurfang says: That is a good thing, captain, but eventually some of them will.
Zar'Kaa says: Not if we’re smart, you know. Not if we stick together and I coordinate the strategies effectively. I mean, hell, if any of them get killed on my watch… it’s just not going to happen, okay?
Arthak Saurfang says: Okay. I hope it doesn’t.
Zar'Kaa says: It won’t. In any case, there was one more idea I had, but I’d rather bring that up to the group. Thanks for hearing me out.
Arthak Saurfang says: Of course, captain.
Nyxxa was actively gathering people to discuss things in the mansion Sol created when Arthak and Zar’Kaa found them.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I wanted to inform everyone that, given yesterday, the Vaerux lessons will continued.
Sol'chi says: Oh. How are you and him doing?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: It’s strange, but I think it’s better than it's ever been. At least since before the war.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: I swear if anyone says anything about how I’m going soft I will jump out of your head and strangle them.
Arthak Saurfang says: Perhaps, you’re rubbing off on you.
Zar'Kaa says: Maybe he’ll be a Nyxxa two.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: Motherfucker.
Sol'chi says: Well, it’s good to hear. Sorry for teasing you, Vaerux.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: Ugh. It’s worse when they apologize.
Nyxxa had been using illusions to translate Vaerux. Rak’Symma was looking around, confused, and Levia explained that it was the guy inside her head.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Though the one thing I wanted to add and why I wanted to have this conversation… he mentioned utilizing Deathsong’s voice.
Rak’Symma’s gaze snapped over to Nyxxa.
Rak'Symma says: What?
Sol'chi says: Her voice? I thought you ate her soul, not her vocal chords. Hm.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: Best way I could explain it, is I’m not sure there wasn’t much of a difference with how she operated.
Arthak Saurfang says: Interesting.
Zar'Kaa says: So… you’d be able to use the voice like she used it?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I don’t think so. I don’t have those types of magics.
Zar'Kaa says: So to a lesser degree?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: If I go into it, but it is different from the parameters I setup up before, so I wanted to bring it up.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: They’re worried about you killing a bunch of innocents… but you’re not that strong.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well. That is interesting.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: He did mention going out of the way to not cause a scene, so I’ll take my leave and be back before the evening.
Zar'Kaa says: You don’t need help?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I’m fine if people come along, I just don’t want to take up time.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m just saying, if you need someone to witness it or jump in, some of us can come with you.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: It’s not anything too dangerous, it’s just something that may spook the shu’halo.
Sol'chi says: That’s fair. If they heard her again, they’d freak out.
Arthak Saurfang says: it seems like a good call.
Rak’Symma had gotten very, very still. Nyxxa looked at her.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Are you alright?
Rak'Symma says: You said she’d be gone. The way I understood it, she wouldn’t be in the cycle to hurt anyone ever again.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I must have done a poor job of explaining then… that wasn’t… to stop her, I took her soul.
Rak’Symma nodded in acknowledgement.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: But yes, I didn’t realize that would take her power too.
Rak’Symma nodded stiffly.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I’m sorry for not explaining this well… but a lot was happening.
Rak'Symma says: You did what you thought was best.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I wanted to silence her. And I know in itself what I do is unforgivable in its own way.
Zar'Kaa says: I mean, so was using the song the way Deathsong did.
Arthak Saurfang says: Agreed.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: But two wrongs don’t make a right either. But all I cared about there was that everyone on the mountain, the children here especially, were no longer harmed. I took decisive action, and that is something that I will carry.
Levia Blackflight says: It’s not like she’s back, right? She’s gone. You got some weird powers, and they might be a fraction of her power, but it’s not like she’s going to take over, right?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: No. But I don’t believe that’s the problem here.
Rak'Symma says: But now whenever you use the power tied to her, I have to hear her voice.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I promise, I will only use it in that manner if I feel like I have to. It’s not something I will use lightly, especially if it hurts you.
Rak’Symma looked between Nyxxa and Levia and nodded.
Rak'Symma says: Thank you for not letting it be a surprise later.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Of course. I don’t want to hurt you accidentally, and I suppose that’s the same for everyone. But thank you for hearing me out.
Zar'Kaa says: Sure thing. If it’s going to be a useful weapon, why not have another one at your disposal.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: That’s the short of it. And if I’m in the wilderness, you won’t hear it either. But let me know if I do something that bothers you, Rak’Symma.
Levia Blackflight says: Be safe. You’ll be fine.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Other things needed to be discussed, yes?
Rak'Symma says: If there’s nothing else you need from me, I’m going to help with the burial rights.
Levia Blackflight says: Yeah, I can go with you, and if you or Mayla wanted to do that thing, I can. But I wouldn’t mind helping out a bit too. I know I’m an outside, but I figured it would be something to do. If that’s okay?
Rak'Symma says: I’m sure that’s more than fine.
Levia Blackflight says: Cool.
The group largely dispersed, and Nyxxa took Zar’Kaa aside to briefly talk.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: If you wouldn’t mind, I want to ask what you took away from last night. I was upset, and I don’t think I was as clear as I was intending to be.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. Well. Could you do that first then, so I know where you’re coming from?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Arthak went over the protocol with you, and the moment you brought it up I believe I was brought back to when I needed to do that for him, and the thought terrified me. It was hard. It was extremely hard. For a lot of reasons. But I don’t want that to get in the way of… if this is something your heart is telling you you need to do, I want to be there for you. I want to know what you need, Zar’Kaa. I’ve been trying to communicate that. I’ve been asking if you could open up to me, so I can understand, and I know how much you hate assumptions, but if you don’t tell me, all I can do is assume or think nothing at all.
Zar'Kaa says: Or get the story from someone else, right?
Zar’Kaa looked displeased.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Right. In that circumstance, the person came to me first. I have my job with the Illidari, and I have things I need to do. I’m just trying to understand what I *can* do. In that moment, I felt like…
Nyxxa mused over the words.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I’m trying not to let my past experiences color what is going on here, but they still do. I want to use what I know to help you do this if this is what you want to do.
Zar'Kaa says: Nyxxa. Would you like to know what I want? If it were just up to me?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Always.
Zar'Kaa says: I want to get back to my mission. I want to get back to finding the refugees, and then I want to go home. Because when I was doing that, I was doing just fine. I was focused. I had a routine I could follow. And we were making progress and I knew exactly what I was supposed to do. And I knew I’d be able to go home successfully. And that, for once, maybe I would be greeted with some measure of joy and gratitude. And now I don’t even know if I’m going to fucking make it home at all. I don’t plan on dying, but even just the fights we’ve been in already, I can tell it’s not a guarantee. This is a fucking war. But it’s more than that. Now I got to make sure none of my crew die, now I got to make sure I'm not only strengthening my ties to the Horde, but also keeping in mind I still feel the way I do about what you’ve all done. And trying to reconcile those conflicting motives. It’s not about what I want, Nyxxa. What I want is to be fucking heading home, because then I knew I could succeed, and now I don’t. And now there’s an opportunity to do something more and get more involved. I know you don’t see it that way, or Arthak, or Sol, or Levia, or Lantresor, or anyone else. I’m completely fine with that. I don’t need people to understand, I don’t need them to be alright with it. I just need them to accept it and maybe, just maybe, to trust me when I tell them when it’s not just for me.
Zar’Kaa exhaled loudly.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Zar’Kaa, what I was most afraid of in that conversation, is that you weren’t doing it just for you.
Zar’Kaa looked confused.
Zar'Kaa says: What do you mean?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Why do you put so much on your own shoulders? Why do this if all you want to do is go home?
Zar’Kaa looked away.
Zar'Kaa says: I haven’t… I haven’t always been able to go home, okay? I really try not to get into this shit, because it’s a distraction for everybody. But that’s the truth. For most of my life, I haven’t been welcome amongst my people, and that’s putting it mildly.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I’m sorry.
Zar'Kaa says: It’s fine. I know you’re trying to help, and I’m trying to be kind because it’s what you do, but if I fuck this up now, Nyxxa, then that will be it, you know? Then I really will never be able to go home.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Would you believe me if I told you that’s something I understood?
Zar'Kaa says: What do you mean?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Well… I’m a satyr. I’ve just learned the reason I became one was because I was trying to help. But I was still seen as a monster by the kaldorei. And it’s been that way for a thousand years before the Illidari found me. Why do you think I’m so straight-forward about everything? Because if I say the wrong thing, if I mess up, if I go back, I’m afraid they’ll throw me out again. Or, well, they never have, but I’m afraid I will be. And the reason I did the things I did… it’s important I do everything I can for the Illidari because they are my home now. They were my home when no one else would give me one. So I know what it means to not be welcome. That’s why I am the way I am and say the things I say. So I understand. Even though I know it’s probably different.
Zar'Kaa says: I didn’t… you never told me that.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I don’t like… it’s not that it’s hard to talk about, it’s just difficult to hear. I don’t want to burden people with my past, and it’s a lot to dump on someone.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. Have you brought that up to the others? The warband?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I have, actually. I can attest that I know that this is just the pain talking. This is just the scars talking and telling me this, and I know it’s not true, but it’s still a fight that I have to have with my own mind. It doesn’t go away even once you feel comfortable. It’s still there. It takes people willing to listen telling you again and again that it’s not true. And sometimes it doesn’t work, but it does get easier. And I had to be ready to listen, and I made a lot of mistakes before that happened.
Zar'Kaa says: Nyxxa, I’m glad you found a home with the Illidari and the Horde even though I know you’re technically not Horde. It’s another home for you. What you’re talking about works for you. That you met someone that will take you in. I just know that the world isn’t going to be that kind to me. I know my fight. I’m not about to give it up, but I’m also not going to fool myself into just denying the reality. I hate talking about this shit. I really do.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I understand. I’d like to be that for you. I might not always be able to, and I’ve already stumbled and made mistakes, and I understand if you don’t forgive me for them, but I’d like to be kind to you. I’d like to listen to you.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. This is even with me more than occasionally being an asshole?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Everybody has quirks.
Zar'Kaa says: Mine is that I don’t shut up.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Mine is that I’m overbearing.
Zar'Kaa says: We can agree on that!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I did learn yesterday that it’s because it’s part of the curse.
Zar'Kaa says: Ah. Excuses.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: We all have reasons, Zar’Kaa, and it doesn’t excuse them, but it explains them.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. I guess I’m not good at that.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Like you said, if your home treats you like that.
Zar'Kaa says: They haven’t recently. Maybe it’s a sign things are changing… but I don’t even know where to begin with that. It’s such a long story and it’s a distraction.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Your heart is not a distraction, Zar’Kaa.
Zar'Kaa says: I… hmph. It’s never my heart that’s won all these battles and survived. You know? No one’s really… I’m not here because of my heart. I’m here because of my skills and because I have something to offer.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I believe you. But I do think it was your heart that renamed what we made Star Stew.
Zar'Kaa says: Or it’s just me being a clever bastard.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: That too can be a heart! But if things are changing, I’m glad. Because I was going to say, if they aren’t grateful for what you’ve done, they don’t deserve you.
Zar’Kaa had a look of vulnerability for a brief moment.
Zar'Kaa says: I don't think anyone’s ever said that before…
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: You deserve kindness and understanding, especially by your home. Everybody deserves love, Zar’Kaa. Even when they don’t believe it themselves. I had to learn that the hard way. If there ever comes a day you’re ready to talk, I want to hear your story, and I want to understand, and I want to make sure I don’t step on things that hurt you because I don’t know about them.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. Um. I don’t… I can’t ask you for all of that. But maybe there is a way that you can help me with this other thing. I mean, you know Gul’dan and the Legion better than I do. Even if that’s just you swinging your blades at me again, I’ll take what help I can get.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: The crux of this is that Gul’dan gets to be the nice one, and I have to be the mean one, when it comes to the fel.
Zar'Kaa says: Fine. I don’t need to be coddled. Just, when the time comes, give me what you got, okay?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I will.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay then.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: There’s more I can tell you too about myself, if you want to know. I’m not hiding it, I just don’t like oversharing.
Zar'Kaa says: If we have time today, I’d like to hear some more.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Alright. Perhaps we can make dinner when we get back.
Zar'Kaa says: New dish though! We have to figure out a way to make Symma taste that damn spice!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Maybe magic? But I wouldn’t go too hard on her today.
Zar'Kaa says: No no, we can say it’s… stew for a few days.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Thank you, Zar’Kaa, for listening.
Zar'Kaa says: Thanks for not making me feel like a complete piece of shit.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: That has never been the intention
Zar'Kaa says: I promise I’ll think about what you said.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Thank you.
Nyxxa left to do her training with Vaerux. As Zar’Kaa was leaving, Sol was wheeled back into the room by the servants.
Sol'chi says: Hey Zar’Kaa! What are you up to?
Zar'Kaa says: Um. Not being on wheels? What about you?
Sol'chi says: Finishing up my luck stone!
Zar'Kaa says: Oh. I tried looking for those. I couldn’t find any.
Sol'chi says: I got one from Ebonhorn. But I wanted to talk about something!
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. You and everyone else. What do you have in mind?
Sol'chi says: Well, more about what we were talking about before when we arrived in Thunder Totem. I still want to get know you better and what’s your desire, and I’ll share some of mine!
Zar'Kaa says: I really don’t know why you guys are so interested, but okay.
Sol'chi says: For one, I want to make our friendship work, and for two, I want you to feel comfortable! Because last night was *rough*.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. Rough is one thing, awful is another. So are you going to call me an asshole?
Sol'chi says: No. So, saying you were just after power–not saying you are, but it’s the one thing that will get things moving, but if you have too much, you do whatever you want and people see you as a tyrant. There are many figures I want to take down, but I don’t have enough power to do so. But my aim is to have a life where I don’t need power. But those beings are guiding a lot of things into a world that’s not nice to be. Like Azgadaan’s father.
Zar’Kaa raised his eyebrow.
Zar'Kaa says: I mean, is that a common point of view where you come from?
Sol'chi says: The common point of view is, well, the public view is, the more power you have, the more you’re in charge. His father has a lot of power. The people above his father have much, much more.
Zar'Kaa says: I guess that’s something I don’t understand, Sol. Why aren’t you with them? Why are you here?
Sol'chi says: I’m here because the Legion killed my mother. I’m here because the people that I’ve made a connection with are here. As far as I know, I don’t have any other eredar who are friends here. I have Azgadaan, but at some point you’ll see how sad me having just Azgadaan is. He’s a good friend. I trust him with everything I have. But I need to make sure the Legion fails. I have to make sure they fail. I trust my friends. I don’t trust organizations as a whole. I surround myself with as many people as I can to make a home, and that’s some of my desire. But say that’s complete, I want to be able to build things for everyone I care about! Give them what they want and set them up for greatness! I plan on having friends who will die before I’m a year old. I want to make them happy before they go. I want you to be happy too Zar’Kaa! I just don’t want you to take the wrong path, Zar’Kaa. Not that you’re on the wrong path, but it’s dangerous. There’s always risk with the fel, but I want you to know that you’re not alone. Gul’dan isn’t the only one who can show you the fel. There are others. Like me! And people at the Hold. I want to be your friend, so tell me how I can. People have had to tell you they’re your friend. How many people have done that? My mom told you that she was your friend, and she means what she says. So what do you need if your crew… do they know they need to tell you they’re your friends? I want to make sure you know how many people think you are their friend. I don’t think Gul’dan needs to tell you with smoke and mirrors, I have that spell too! I can show it to you too with magic!
Sol sighed heavily and rubbed his face.
Sol'chi says: I need some water.
A servant appeared with some water that Sol took.
Sol'chi says: Sorry!
Zar'Kaa says: Hold on a second.
Zar’Kaa took a small powder he put in the water.
Zar'Kaa says: Flavoring!
Sol'chi says: Thank you. Sorry if that was much, I just had a lot to get off my chest. I can go on tangents sometimes.
Zar'Kaa says: You don’t say? Let me tell you something, buddy, you did not set this precedent back at Thunder Totem.
Sol'chi says: I was drunk. A little.
Zar'Kaa says: A little? You are talking to a doctor, remember.
Sol'chi says: Have you treated an eredar patient before?
Zar'Kaa says: No. But first time for everything. Just say the word, I’ll make you sick. But, to answer your questions, or respond earnestly… I didn’t think this was going to happen. I thought the consensus was going to be… well, it was just going to be everyone how awful I am and that I should go… kill myself or something?
Sol'chi says: Zar’Kaa. I was born in the Legion. There are so many people that deserve to die. I’ve seen the Horde and the atrocities they’ve committed. You do not deserve to die for just… getting some tutelage from someone that deserves to be put down.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. Lets just say you don’t know everything about me.
Sol'chi says: That’s fine. You don’t know everything about me, but I’ve done things I’ll regret for the rest of my life. Once we’re out of here, I can tell you, but for now I have secrets to keep. There are risks. I keep hold of my secrets that will hurt the people I care about. So, if it’s anything that hurt you, you don’t need to tell me. But I want to give you what I can, because friendships are hard, especially in times like these when the stakes are so high. I would love to wander this isle and see the sights. I want to go where you and your tribe are. I want to see the world! I want to protect this world for my friends and family, and I hope, for you, and I hope you’ll do the same. Sorry, tangent again!
Zar'Kaa says: It’s… been a while since you’ve talked this much, huh?
Sol'chi says: Nah. I just hold a lot of things in. Because you never know when the next word will hurt somebody. I’ve hurt a lot of people accidentally because I’m not good at reading rooms sometimes.
Zar'Kaa says: You remind me of someone.
Sol'chi says: Ooh! A friend I hope!
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. He’s pretty likable. I just think he’s hard to understand. His name is Rai, and he’s kind of like that, you know? He always means well. He’s a great person. But he… he sometimes doesn’t get it, you know, or he makes mistakes. One time he made a really big one, and I don’t think he’s ever quite gotten over it. He got people killed, so. But at the same time, it wasn’t really… his fault. And, you know, for a long time, I was looking for him and… someone else. I can’t speak for my tribe, but I didn’t have any animosity for him. If he came home though, I wanted to make sure he had one friend. I dunno, I think it kind of sounds like you guys have something similar going on. It seems like you’re worried about that too. You say the wrong thing, make another mistake, and then you can’t do all those nice things. I mean. Am I right about this? Or am I just a jerk?
Sol'chi says: Very close.
Zar'Kaa says: Maybe I’m not just a jerk right now.
Sol'chi says: Everyone can be! Even me. Especially when I don’t read the room right. Or if I just feel like being an asshole.
Zar'Kaa says: Ah, well. Same on that. I guess, if I’m going to answer your question, what do I need or something like that? I guess I already said this, but I never really feel like anyone has my back. Like when push comes to shove, I can stand up for myself, but it’s nice to know someone else would, you know? I guess all the time I feel like I’m trapped and that’s just not going to happen. It’s something that would feel nice.
Sol'chi says: I can have your back. But, to be honest, things are conditional. Even Arthak, I punched him once. Knocked him clean out.
Zar’Kaa’s eyes widened.
Sol'chi says: He tried giving away my stuff to some ogre. That was near the beginning.
Zar'Kaa says: And you decked him?
Sol'chi says: Yeah. He was already on the ground. He had a tiff with a friend, and I found out. He was basically unconscious, but I gave him a tap.
Zar'Kaa says: Just when you think you know a guy.
Sol'chi says: He’s gotten better.
Zar'Kaa says: Have you?
Sol'chi says: Uh… no one’s tried to take my stuff again, so I’ll give that.
Zar'Kaa says: Well, if you ever see me trying to wheel a desk out of the mansion, take your best shot.
Sol'chi says: Oh. The mansion will deal with that.
Zar'Kaa says: I’ll keep that in mind.
Zar’Kaa looked around at the servants, who were a mix of night elves, creatures, and other things. Zar’Kaa made eye contact and a servant ran a hand across its neck. Zar’Kaa responded with an “I’m watching you” gesture.
Zar'Kaa says: So. Sol. Why tell me about this?
Sol'chi says: Because you seem like you need to hear it. I’m here for you! From what I can see from your crew, I’m fairly certain they feel the same way. You just really need to talk to them. Bring them in, hold them close, trust them with your life. I know you didn’t like what Arthak said, but if I was one of them, I’d want you to tell me, because if you did that, I’d know that you care about us and our purpose. I cannot guarantee that, but I feel that way. I’m asking you to take a leap and open yourself up to your crew, and I think they’ll do the same. Have faith. Not in gods. In the people that chose to follow you that are your friends. Trust in them, have faith in them, follow them. You’re their leader, but you have to give them what they give you.
Another glass of water was handed over to Sol.
Zar'Kaa says: It’s not that… easy, Sol. I’ve already taken a number of leaps of faith. Throwing myself in with you motherfuckers.
Sol'chi says: That’s true! But if you’re hesitant to give them that trust, then maybe there’s something I can do so you can find it in them.
Zar’Kaa furrowed his brow.
Zar'Kaa says: I don’t want to use magic, Sol.
Sol'chi says: It doesn’t require magic. It could! That would make it much easier. But it doesn’t.
Zar'Kaa says: What do you have in mind?
Sol'chi says: Simple. I ask them how they feel, and you listen. You can be in the room. You can be on the other side of the wall listening in. I just want you to know their hearts.
Zar'Kaa says: And what if they all tell you that they have lost faith in me? What then?
Sol'chi says: If they say that, it’s life. There’s no guarantees. But if they don’t give you that trust or something close to it, you can always find it somewhere else. Look at my mom! She’s been alive for thousands of years! And she was able to find people. She found me, Levia, Murky. She was lost, but she found so much too. And if they say they lost faith in you, there’s always a chance to win it back. And barring that? Find the people that will hold you close. There are so many people in this universe. You will. Have faith in people.
Zar'Kaa says: Sol. You’re really doing a nice thing, and I appreciate it, but I don’t need you to lecture me about life, okay?
Sol'chi says: Absolutely fair! Our hardships have been different. But please think on what I’ve said. I hope you have a good day! No matter what, the mansion is here. You can have everything you want for the next… eight and a half days.
A servant brought Zar’Kaa a glass of water.
Sol'chi says: Need anything, ask! I have plenty to give.
Zar'Kaa says: Alright. Thanks man.
Zar’Kaa took another vial from his pouch and he handed it to Sol.
Zar'Kaa says: In case you need help sleeping. It makes dreams more pleasant. So, you know, if you want to spend an entire dream beating up Arthak, you can.
Sol'chi says: I really don’t like violence. Unless it’s needed. Like when someone takes my stuff.
Zar'Kaa says: Alright then.
Sol'chi says: Be safe! Enjoy yourself. Yesterday was hard, but this is our break. We really needed it. Oh, right, and I’m making this luck stone. Hold your finger up to it and wish me luck!
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. Um. Good luck?
Sol'chi says: Oh great, I’ve stolen your luck! Goodbye!
Sol wheeled away and Zar’Kaa chuckled.
Zar'Kaa says: Joke's on you, you bastard. I don’t need luck.
As Rak’Symma was making her way over the Sepulcher of the Sky, she noticed a few things that were odd throughout the day. At one point, she had caught young harpies spying on her. Whenever Rak’Symma looked at them, they would immediately fly away. She also noticed all three of them flying away smiling and giggling in a suspicious way.
Rak’Symma took off and then swooped down toward the young harpies, and in the process, she also noticed Thisalee, who seemed like she was working on something. She opted to soar down to Thisalee, and Thisalee’s ears move slightly as she heard Rak’Symma’s approach, and she quickly scrambled to hide whatever was in her hands that she was working on.
Thisalee Crow says: Rak’Symma! Hi!
Rak'Symma says: Am I interrupting something?
Thisalee Crow says: No! I was just enjoying the view! It’s really beautiful, isn’t it?
Rak’Symma was hovering above the night elf and squinted suspiciously.
Rak'Symma says: What were you working on?
Thisalee Crow says: This!? Nothing. I was just making arrows!
Rak'Symma says: Thisalee, I have had a very long morning.
Thisalee Crow says: It’s… it’s nothing, really, I promise!
Rak'Symma says: Why were those three so engrossed with nothing then?
Thisalee Crow says: They… were… helping me. Nothing important though!
Thisalee laughed nervously.
Rak'Symma says: This makes me more suspicious. I would believe you had you said they were trying to steal something from you.
Thisalee Crow says: See, this is why I don’t lie. Alright, I’ll tell you, but trust me, it’s something that… okay.
Thisalee blushed and withdrew a large, unpolished chunk of onyx. Parts of it were removed, and it appeared to be wet. Carved in the onyx appeared to be a wing and the beginning portions of what would likely be a beak.
Thisalee Crow says: I was, um… I was working a little something for… I guess you could call it a celebration? Or a congratulations? A gift.
Rak’Symma landed.
Thisalee Crow says: Those three… they’re the ones that approached me. I was a little hesitant at first, but they knew I was friends with you, and they said they heard what you were talking about with gifts and they wanted help… they asked me if I could make a gift for you, and we’ve been working on something. Did you see them following you?
Rak'Symma says: Here and there.
Thisalee Crow says: They were trying to get a good look at your gift. The one from the ancient that watched over you. They actually found this piece of onyx in the mountains and they said it reminded them of raven feathers, and we thought you might like something like that. I guess I ruined the surprise now… I had them get a closer look and try to get a sketch… they aren’t very good at that.
Thisalee pulled out some parchment with scribbles on it.
Rak'Symma says: It’s a bit hard to hold conventional tools.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah. They’ve been calling you Lady Raven. Some of them said they had dreams of you. They wanted help to say thanks. That, at least, I thought I could help with. I was going to get it done as quickly as I could, but I guess the jig is up. Do you like it so far?
Thisalee held up the onyx figure and Rak’Symma took it tenderly.
Rak'Symma says: It's already beautiful, Thisalee.
Thisalee Crow says: Wait until I’m done! I have a little surprise cooked up… I’ll make sure it still knocks you off your feet, well, talons!
Rak'Symma says: I don’t know what to say.
Thisalee waved it off.
Thisalee Crow says: You don’t gotta say anything! I think your actions and words from yesterday have said plenty. You did it! We’re not done, but this was big. And I knew that you could do it. Really, I should have gotten started sooner, but I guess I wouldn’t have come up with the idea myself. But you can think about it, and later, you can say something then. And if the three are there, try to act surprised!
Rak’Symma had started to get teary eyed, and she smiled.
Rak'Symma says: I’m not used to getting gifts. I guess I need to work on what it looks like to be surprised.
Thisalee Crow says: I think we all have a lot of work to do.
Rak'Symma says: Thank you for being kind to them.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah! I’m… I should thank you, really. You’re the one that sort of showed me that I really need to look deeper.
Rak'Symma says: I think I’m just relieved others are living up to an example.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah. You looked… pretty cool, yesterday, by the way.
Rak'Symma says: If it’s all the same to you, Thisalee, I’m not ready to talk about yesterday.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah. That makes sense.
Rak'Symma says: But I’m glad it turned out the way it did.
Thisalee Crow says: Me too. And… yeah. I think, honestly, I should just leave it at that. But, Rak’Symma, whenever you are ready, if you need someone… I, well, uh, I got big ears, might as well use them! But sorry to worry you.
Rak'Symma says: Suspicious behavior makes me a bit antsy.
Thisalee smiled and went back to work on the project as Rak’Symma took off again. As Rak’Symma headed toward the Sepulcher, she heard heavy wingbeats. As she looked over, she spied Nisha, who soared to her level.
Nisha says: The eagles’ song is clear today.
Rak'Symma says: I’m glad you’re here to hear it.
Nisha says: And I you. They call you Sky Friend, the two leggers. It is a fitting name.
Nisha banked to continue her flight as Rak’Symma finished her journey to land next to Levia and Mayla.
