Appearing Characters: Aramar Thorne, Arthas Menethil, Astalor Bloodsworn, Broll Bearmantle, Dorana Stillblade, Elissa Cross, Makasa Flintwill, Malande, Remnii, Riff, Rokhan, Rommath Pyrewing, Samaara, Seria, Soratha, Tae'shara Sunwatcher, Thrud, Thunderaan, Tol'vas Moonshadow, Uther Menethil, Vanira, Velameestra Windrunner, Zekhan, Zen'tabra, Zuni
June 15th (Night)
Seria, Tol’vas, Broll, and Riff return to the village with Zen’tabra so that she could meet the rest of Seria’s fellows. The party had been offered space in one of the longhouses where they could rest for the evening, as it was dry and safe. There are thin curtains of mesh covering the windows to prevent mosquitos from entering.
Aramar had come back, his hair soaked, and his coat sopping wet. He is chatting with Tae’shara about how he tried to surf, but it was harder than it looked.
The five animal-form druids (and Riff) burst into the edge of the village--Zen’tabra the victor of the race--and they transform back.
Zen'tabra says: You’ll have to do better than that, Seria!
Zen’tabra dusts herself off, and sees Remnii, the humans, and the elves exiting the longhouse.
Zen'tabra says: These must be your friends?
She starts to approach with a smile.
Zen'tabra says: Well, aren’t ya gonna introduce me, Seria?
Seria, still kind of stunned by everything, introduces everyone.
Zen'tabra says: It be a pleasure to meet all you. The name is Zen’tabra. I be an old friend of Seria’s mada, now I am a new friend to all of you.
Remnii says: It’s good to meet you as well.
Zen'tabra says: The pleasure is all mine.
She looks around, her stomach rumbling.
Zen'tabra says: What’s an old woman got to do to get some food around here?
Darkspear Troll says: One minute, Zen, I’ll get ya somethin’!
Some trolls come back with some food for Zen’tabra, and she gestures to one of the bonfires nearby.
Zen'tabra says: Seria told me about some of the adventures you all been on. It’s good to finally have some faces to put to the tales.
She sits down next to the bonfire, and indicates for the rest of the party to join her.
Zen'tabra says: I be glad to see she’s gotten a curious group of individuals to travel with. It be good she got some people she can count on, isn’t that right?
She pats Seria on the shoulder.
Zen'tabra says: It be a dangerous world out there for a troll on her own. I be glad she found some people after she left.
Remnii cocks her head a bit, earnestly delighted by the vibrance that Zen’tabra had brought with her.
Remnii says: I’m surprised. I’m… glad we can be of help.
Zen’tabra smiles, chewing on some of her food.
Zen'tabra says: There be no need to be modest, Remnii! After all, I don’t even know if she be here if it weren’t for all of you? All of you certainly wouldn’t be here without her!
She laughs.
Remnii says: Very true.
Zen’tabra goes on to talk about Seria’s mom, and some of the stories when they were younger--most of which were quite comical. Zen’tabra seems to paint Kala in a well-meaning, clumsy light. However, Kala had always owned her mistakes. She eventually draws some other trolls into the group, and some drink makes its way into the circle. Zen’tabra eats a lot, and spends a lot of time getting to know the group.
She did ask each person about themselves, and where they first met Seria or encountered the rest of the group. They lose track of the time as the moons rise.
Zen'tabra says: As ridiculous as it sounds, I think I’m getting tired! Ya think I could pull an all nighter for a night or two given how much I slept, but it may be good to turn my brain off for a bit, ya?
Remnii says: It was good to meet you! And it was good to get to know more about you and your family. Sweet dreams as you go!
Zen'tabra says: I’ll be sure to drop by in the mornin’ and figure out what all of ya be doin’, but I be turnin’ in. Good dreams to the rest of you, but try not to think too much about it, ya? The Dream here can be a bit dangerous if you get too curious.
She polishes off her drink and starts to head off back toward the grove with a wave.
Tae’shara chuckles and glances at Seria.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Well, uh, she is sure a lively one, ain’t she?
Seria nods, quite overwhelmed. Tae’shara grins.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Ya know, I ain’t ever seen you blush, Seria. But I think I’ve seen it more in the last few hours than you probably have in the rest of your life. I’d say I ain’t a bettin’ woman, but I don’t like to lie in good company.
She takes another swig of her drink.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: ‘Sides we got a prince here, and I wouldn’t want to tarnish his noble ears with such falsehoods. Oh, and a king!
She gestures at Arthas, who rolls his eyes.
Arthas Menethil says: Don’t even start that.
He snags the drink from Tae’shara’s hand and polishes it off before handing the empty receptacle back. Makasa leans over to fill the cup again.
Riff had started to nod off, and the fire dims down. The trolls in the area had started to open up a bit, and some bid the group goodnight before heading off. The village is dying down for the night.
Seria gets Riff to bed and covered up for the night. Half groggily, Riff looks up at her.
Riff says: I’m glad ya got to see everyone, mada.
He yawns.
Riff says: Are you happy you got to see everybody?
Seria nods. Riff gives a sleepy smile.
Riff says: That’s good. Cause when you’re happy, I think I’m happy.
He reaches out and holds Seria’s hand.
Riff says: Good night, mada.
Seria says: Good night Riff.
Riff passes out immediately. One by one, the rest also turn in for the night and settle into sleep against a background of dull jungle sounds.
In the meantime, Vel had arrived in Northrend on the Wintercroft, and she had rather quickly headed to rest--casting [Dream] to speak with Telagos.
June 16th
Vel exits the Wintercroft the next morning, and she is greeted with a cloudy day. More people are out and about than otherwise would be, and she isn’t expressly sure who is and is not a vampyr. She doesn’t see anyone that she immediately knows, and no one really pays her any mind.
As she heads toward the arcane sanctum, she does see something curious. There is some commotion near where some stables are located. There are a few vrykul there, and behind them is a large, scaled creature. It has two large, leathery wings with burnished red scales--and a long, alligator-like mouth. It’s a reptilian creature with two large feet, seemingly curled under its wings. There is a large wooden pillar in the ground nearby, and a massive chain attached to a link around the creature’s head.
It’s clearly not a true dragon.
She stops and watches it, committing it to memory.
There are even more vrykul here than there was last time. On the outskirts of Vengeance Landing, she can see a temporary camp where some people may be staying. It’s clearly not of elvish make.
She continues on her way and heads toward the study, she hears two voices conversing beyond the door. She recognizes Malande’s voice, as well as Astalor’s.
Vel opts to knock.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Just a moment please.
The meeting inside wraps up.
Elvish Woman says: Thank you, Magister, this is rather unexpected.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Quite alright. Thank you for agreeing to meet me.
Footsteps approach the door of the study, and Malande opens the door. She smiles at Vel upon seeing her.
Malande says: Oh! Velameestra. It’s wonderful to see you again!
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s good to see you as well, Malande.
Next to her is an elvish woman Vel doesn’t recognize. She has sandy blonde hair and a simple tunic and coat. She nods in Vel’s direction.
Elvish Woman says: Oh. Pardon me. Sorry. You must be Velameestra Windrunner?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Correct. To whom do I owe the pleasure?
The woman bows.
Elvish Woman says: My name is Dorana. It’s wonderful to make your acquaintance. I understand that you, um… you’ve done a lot to help with all of this, and I appreciate it. Some of the things you’ve been working on with Magister Bloodsworn have been of great help to my husband, so, thank you.
She nods.
Dorana says: I’ll leave you to it. Farewell. Have a good day.
She turns and shakes Malande’s hand.
Dorana says: Thank you very much, priestess.
Malande says: We’ll have another checkup soon. It’s been an honor to help you.
Dorana nods again and leaves. Malande bows her head in Vel’s direction.
Malande says: Please! Come in.
She opens the door further. Astalor currently has a piece of parchment held in front of his face, his mouth fixed in a perpetual scowl with a perplexed look on his face. As Vel steps, he sets it aside on top of a pile of similar pieces of parchment, and is just looking at them.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I apologize if this is a bad time for a surprise visit.
Astalor blinks, as if being snapped out of a trance. He looks over to Vel.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Oh… Velameestra Windrunner. Please, please. Come in. I welcome the distraction. I fear I might get a headache if I attempt to tackle this particular conundrum any further.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Oh?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Please come in, and shut the door for now.
Vel pulls the door shut behind her as she further enters the room.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: You might be interested in reading this, Miss Velameestra. You see…
He broadly gestures to the papers.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: This right here is a medical diagnostic written up by our dear mutual friend here, Sister Malande. Regarding the woman you just saw leaving this place.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Nothing serious, I hope?
Malande clasps her hands together and tilts her head to the side.
Malande says: Quite the opposite! It seems that Miss Dorana is with child.
Vel blinks.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m… I imagine that happened before her husband’s death and subsequent implied undeath?
Astalor gets a somewhat incredulous smile.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Well, considering that her husband was part of the team of Blood Knights that was present at Quel’danas nearly six months ago, I don’t believe that’s the case. So unless Miss Dorana was on a bout of infidelity... you understand why I’m rather perplexed by this particular circumstance.
There is a long pause as Vel works to fully process what Astalor was saying, and it almost looks like her eyes lose focus for a split second.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Please!
He gestures to the documentation.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Peruse all you wish.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well… I suppose we’re trading notes then.
As she approaches the papers she pulls a stack of her own notes out of her bag and holds them out for Astalor to take.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I took the liberty to make a table of contents. First page.
As he takes the stack of papers, she then starts to rifle through the notes the other elf had set aside. Astalor squints at the front page of the notes in his hands.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Goodness, Velameestra, this is quite thorough. Where do you find the time to compile such notes on the road?
Velameestra Windrunner says: The lack of sleep helps.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Ah… yes, I suppose it would. You look much better now, by the way, compared to the last time we conversed.
Velameestra Windrunner says: This time, I didn’t just crawl out of a grave.
Astalor clears his throat.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Right. Yes. I suppose so.
He clears his throat again.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I would ask you how you feel… but I see that is listed.
He gestures to an entry on the table of contents.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I suppose I can read all about that here, can’t I?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I tried to maintain as much transparency as I could in the event such information could prove beneficial. Though you’ll likely take interest in the spell at the end.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: So not only are you taking notes, but you’re continuing to develop new magics…
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes.
Astalor chuckles.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: There truly is no end to your commitment to knowledge, is there?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’d be a poor mage if there was.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, I suppose so.
As Astalor glances through the notes Vel provided, Vel herself is able to look more closely at the medical documentation. Notably, she notes the name “Sangrias Stillblade” listed as the father, and Dorana herself seems to be early on in the first trimester of the pregnancy. It is also almost identical to a normal elvish pregnancy. Thus far, the only curiosities have been that Dorana had been largely a vegetarian for most of her life, but she had recently started to get cravings for meat, which had led to her testing to see if she was pregnant. She also apparently has had bouts of lightheadedness. Neither circumstances are particularly out of the ordinary, but given the situation, it had been deemed wise to note them.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Hmph. A development indeed.
Malande smiles.
Malande says: A wonderful one! If I were to hazard a guess, while they may be the first, they undoubtedly won’t be the last of such couples to learn such wonderful news.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I can only hope it goes smoothly from here.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I carry the same concerns… we have no way of knowing what this means, and I would not wish for this to have any adverse effects on Miss Dorana. But, I suppose that is why we have you, Sister.
He looks over to Malande.
Malande says: Of course, Magister! Myself and the others here will do everything we can to ensure that she and any others that come forth with such unique and wonderful challenges are well taken care of.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I would expect nothing less. Thank you. But, I suppose I have more reading to do, do I not, Miss Velameestra?
He gives a small, exasperated smile. The magister has had a clearly eventful morning.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Nothing is of any notable breakthrough. It’s not something that needs to be read immediately.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Honestly, I find this a bit recreational, as curious as I am about all this. Especially the spell. Perhaps I’ll start with that. Not that I’m normally one to skip to the end of a book. But you have my thanks, Velameestra. Was there anything else you needed in your stay, or will you be returning to your traveling companions?
Velameestra Windrunner says: There were actually two things, though I will be returning rather quickly. We just stopped in a village. We won’t be there long. But… one of my companions asked me to check in on her father here. I was wondering if you knew Arlethal Sunwatcher?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Ah! Yes! He’s one of the High Examiners with his husband. I’ve had the privilege of speaking with him a few times before he left on his own expedition. He’s not here at present, but he and a few others encountered something on their most recent forays into the reaches of this place. An ore. A curious one. He set out with the rest of the Reliquary to locate some more veins of it. It has some rather promising qualities, from what I understand.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Good to hear. She’ll be happy to hear it’s more of the same, then, more or less.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, if anything changes, I’ll be sure to let you know…. I did not know the High Examiner’s daughter was with you!
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s appreciated. Do you happen to have a sending stone? I can link them up, if you do.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I do, actually, yes, and I believe it would be quite beneficial, actually. Rare are the days I don’t expend it on one opportunity or another. I’m acting as a bit of a liaison here at our beachhead, for the Grand Magister’s and his Majesty’s operations. But yes, by all means.
Astalor removes a stone from his staff, which Vel promptly begins to attune to her own as Malande takes her leave with a soft farewell.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Please, if you’re ever bored, I’d be more than interested to hear about some of your magnificent discoveries first hand.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well, we’re certainly not in one place for long. Speaking of the Grand Magister, is he still here?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, in fact, you actually chose a rather apt time. He has been coordinating with various efforts, but I believe you should be able to find him out near the outskirts of town. I believe he was speaking with one of the… mystics that the Dragonflayer clan brought with them.
Vel’s ear twitches, and she immediately looks up at Astalor at the name of the clan.
Velameestra Windrunner says: That’s the name of the vrykul clan, then?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: It is, yes. At least from what we’ve been able to gather from this particular clan of warriors. It has a rather storied history. Their king, I believe his name was Ymiron… their language is difficult, I’m still trying to pick up the finer bits of it. But their king was a rather noteworthy conquer that brought many of their clans under heel. I believe it’s quite fortunate the General was able to broker a friendship with them, rather than having to face them as opponents.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Fortunate indeed. I don’t suppose in the conversations that have occurred they have explained where they got such a name, by chance?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I assume from flaying dragons, though I suppose something could have gotten lost in translation.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was hoping for more specifics than that.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Unfortunately you’d have to ask them. I’m not precisely sure. Though they do have those strange draconic creatures that a few of them have been bringing back. Drakes they’ve been calling them. That could have something to do with it. I believe there was one down in the stables now.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, I saw it on my way in....
Vel seems to be showing faint signs of agitation as some of the concerns she had mused over with Telagos come to the forefront of her mind. Her nails tap rapidly on the desk as she finishes attuning the sending stones together.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Um. Yes. Right. I’m going to go seek out the Grand Magister then. Thank you, Astalor, as ever, and enjoy the reading.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Of course… I didn’t say anything to offend you I hope?
Velameestra Windrunner says: No, I’m just keeping track of a lot of pieces right now.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Right. Well. Do try not to shoulder all the burdens yourself, Velameestra.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Oh, don’t worry, that’s why I’m going to go see the Grand Magister.
Astalor chuckles somewhat humorlessly.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Aha, yes. Well anar’alah belore, Velameestra. Until next time.
Vel bids him farewell in turn and then heads off to find Rommath. It isn’t far to the temporary vrykul shelters on the outskirts of town, and she sees Rommath with his hands behind his back, seemingly finishing up a conversation with a tall vrykul who seems to be some sort of mystic. Their face is covered in tattoos, and their eyes seem to have a supernatural quality to them. Their tattoos look almost bone-like, with cracked femurs over their eyes. They are dressed in robes, and they have a long staff upon which is affixed a skull that seems to have belonged to the same type of creature that was stabled.
The mystic bows their head, the two of them finishing up their conversation. The vrykul seems to be speaking in rough, heavily-accented common.
Dragonflayer Mystic says: Thank you for your time, grand mystic.
Rommath returns the bow and seemingly responds back telepathically before turning on his heel. His face is contemplative, for a moment, but then he sees Vel, and his brow furrows. His presence enters Vel’s mind.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Miss Windrunner. To what do I owe the pleasure?
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: I wanted to speak with you, if you had time.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I never have time.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Well, if you would let me steal some then.
Rommath nods, and there is a subtle shift in his face that may indicate a humorless smirk beneath the veil of his collar. He gestures with his hand out towards the woods.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Walk with me, if you would.
Vel nods and follows him. The pair of them amble into the outskirts, away from the prying eyes of others. There are soldiers patrolling the area, but any that got too close Rommath would just nod to, and they would salute and be on their way to avoid intruding upon their conversation.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I suppose a diversion from my normal responsibilities would be rather welcome. What brings you to Northrend? What did you want to speak of?
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Some things have happened on Kalimdor. Do you prefer the good news or the bad news first?
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: When people ask me this, Miss Windrunner, I often doubt the veracity of the good news.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Bad news it is, then.
Rommath nods.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Very well.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Regarding potential problems in the Eastern Kingdoms, we found Arthas Menethil.
Rommath’s brow furrows.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: That seems unlikely. I had seen him myself in the Eastern Kingdoms before we set off on this expedition of ours. Are you certain that you found him?
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: I confirmed his true name via the blood magic I recently developed. It is definitely Arthas. He escaped from black dragons in the area. Things have gotten… complicated, because he is also still in the Eastern Kingdoms. Current theories are that they are an imposter, or there’s something deeper at work. It’s something I thought it would be wise for you to know given the current reliance of the elven people on Lordaeron.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I can see how that would be… difficult. If he is indeed a plant of sorts, if the situation is as grim as it could be… I will see to it that this information reaches Lor’themar and Sylvanas as soon as possible.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Kilnar has also been informed, and she is looking into it via the avenues she has access to as well.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I have no doubt her contacts will be able to shed further light than I can.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: He has unfortunately also lost his memories. There is a hypothesis that the individual in Lordaeron may be an anchor for the modify memory spell at work. We lifted what parts we could. We were also able to determine the likely identity of the black dragon that had imprisoned him.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Is that so?
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Her name is Onyxia…
Vel stops for a moment and then looks up at Rommath.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: How familiar are you with draconic politics?
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I was unaware they had politics. I am aware they are much smarter than the average individual gives them credit for, and I am aware of their presences. I am likewise aware that General Borel was a dragon in disguise, the self-same one that was slain in the skies over Silvermoon during its sacking. But what reasons they would have to infiltrate so deeply, I can’t say for certain. I know they are ancient and dangerous creatures, but you seem to know more.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: There is… a great deal under the surface. More than I can really explain, right now.
Vel puts her hand on her face, taking a moment to gather and organize her thoughts before she continues.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: There are five flights. Red. Green. Blue. Bronze. Black. The black flight is the problem. An enemy to the rest of them, and regarded to be completely mad. Onyxia is the daughter of their perceived leader. We believe her primary human guise is Katrana Prestor.
Rommath’s pace slows.
Rommath Pyrewing says: Hm.
The sound was not telepathic, but instead emitted from his throat.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: We’ve been unable to get concrete confirmation--she’s shielded from divination magics. But what evidence we’ve found points to it. And if that’s the case, that would mean Daval Prestor is likely the leader of the black flight.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: A bold claim. But I already know you better than to make such claims unless you truly believed them. Had one of our own Convocation members not been revealed as a dragon posthumously less than a year ago, then perhaps I wouldn’t have believed you at all. But as such things are possible… well, we might find ourselves in more complicated situations. Without proof there’s not much that can be done.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: I’m presently trying to get in touch with one of my own contacts on the Eastern Kingdoms that may be able to confirm more. The disturbance is proving problematic, but I was able to force my way around it. If I am able to accomplish such a thing faster I may have better success.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: An update on that for you. We’ve discovered another curiosity involving this disturbance. We’ve been able to ascertain with some of the vessels that have come and gone from the Eastern Kingdoms with information and supplies and the like, that it seems to encompass parts of the sea between here and the Eastern Kingdoms, but not all of it. If one is beyond the barrier of influence, one cannot communicate out of the barrier, but one can communicate within the barrier itself. Functionally, it cuts off communication that would attempt to pass through it, but communication is possible within. We’ve discovered this from ships able to successfully communicate with one another up until a certain point when they’ve left the influence.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: So it’s functionally a perimeter.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: That seems to be the case, though it’s hard to say the exact specifications of such a perimeter. It seems to shift. Growing at times, and shrinking at others.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Frustrating. But the update is appreciated.
Rommath nods.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Which… I did also hear tales of the Dragonflayers. From someone who has experience with vrykul. Seems we’re getting interesting allies. Do you happen to know what dragons they’re flaying?
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I’ve spoken with some of their mystics as you saw. They’re an interesting breed. They practice a myriad variety of magics, but it seems some of these mystics specialize in both divination and necromancy. A different shade of it than what we are perhaps familiar with, but necromancy all the same. I cannot say for certain, but I have heard their bragging and boasting, as obtuse as it can be. Some of my own eyes and ears have heard tales of encounters with dragons. I’m unable to tell if they differentiate between the creatures you may have seen, that they have domesticated, and any true dragons, as it were. But I would be unsurprised if the answer was both. If there are dragons indigenous to this land, these individuals would undoubtedly seek to challenge them. Of that I am certain. They… have a reverence for death. A troubling one. Made further troubling by the reverence with which they speak of General Duskseeker.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: I imagine that reverence aided in them becoming allies instead of conquerors?
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I believe that it would be an understatement to say that the only reason we are not contesting with their might in a more direct fashion is because of the work that General has been doing. But that is as troubling as it is comforting. They do not look to her as an ally, Miss Windrunner. They seem to look up to her as something more.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Like a god?
Rommath nods.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: They seem to be enamored with our curious condition. It seems they have similar tales within their own histories.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: About vampyrism specifically?
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Yes. Immortal conquerors of the night uniting disparate clans under their banner. I’ve been unable to discern any specifics, but it seems they see us as a herald of their awakening.
Vel is pensive for a moment, considering.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Noted.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: It goes without saying that I’ve shared my personal feelings on this with only a select few.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: It won’t be repeated.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I know. 'Tis something I plan on keeping a very close eye on. For the time being, they make better allies than they do enemies. And their knowledge of this land has been… rough around the edges, perhaps, but invaluable nonetheless.
Vel nods.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Then I suppose, in that sense, if they choose to take war to any of the local dragons, it would be best to be cautious. There are… well… the blue flight has a presence in Northrend. And the blue flight is the one that is most akin with the arcane. It would be an unfortunate group to make enemies of.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: You are certain of this?
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Yes.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Then I will do what I can to learn more about them. I can do what I can within my own capacity to ensure we do not make further enemies.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: As it stands, the only draconic enemies we really should have is the black flight.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Perhaps so.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: But… as for the good news. Kilnar knows what I am now. I told her as much when I had to reveal myself to the rest of my companions. Prior to that, she knew what I specialize in, and what I practice. Yet, she’s still fond of me, despite that. So. If she is among the Convocation members that have yet to be informed of certain things, feel free to use that in whatever way you see fit.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: While she’s not been informed properly, I would not be surprised if she has come to her own conclusions given the information that tends to trickle into her web. But that is useful nonetheless.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: In addition to that, I should also thank you. Again. Whatever you did to incapacitate the hex… it’s still dormant, and that dormancy has granted me the further boon of allowing my stolen strength to start to return.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: That is good to hear.... Have you been able to… ascertain… if what I did had any lingering effects…?
Who specifically he was asking about did not need to be vocalized, and Vel hesitates for a moment, the tip of one of her fangs almost digging into her lip before she halted the action.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: I’ve been unable to confirm anything. But… preliminary theories are that things should be fine.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I see… that’s good.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: I’m also en route to resolve that permanently. Ideally. So there’s that.
Rommath nods.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Busy as ever, Miss Windrunner.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: No rest for the wicked. There never is. But I’ll stop stealing your time, with what little of it you have.
Rommath nods.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I appreciate the information. You of course have no obligation to give it to me, but I’m glad you’ve chosen to do so. Your dedication is ever appreciated, Miss Windrunner. But… in spite of all of this, and the curious roots you have with which you’re able to ascertain the intel you’ve given us… do remember that our situation is a precarious one. I will do what I can, but I can’t make promises.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: No promises are expected. Nor is miracle work. Ultimately, in my experiences, having the information is a better tool than not.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Then may we be able to minimize the amount of difficult decisions we may need to make in the future.
Vel nods.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]:: Astalor has a link to my sending stone. If, for whatever reason, I need to be reached, he has access regardless of where I may be.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Very good.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Good day, Grand Magister.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: And you, Miss Windrunner.
They had wrapped around back to the outskirts of the city, and Rommath fades into his mist form and disappears. Vel heads back to the Wintercroft and teleports back to the Darkspear village.
Vel appears within the teleportation circle in the troll study. There is a stirring of movement, as she sees the older troll nearby over a large vat of something with a bubbling potion. The troll jumps as Vel appears, and a few things fall. He snags a few items from the air, and at the last moment his eyes glow and a mage hand appears to catch the last vial before it smashes on the ground.
The troll scowls over at Vel.
Soratha says: Good mornin’, elf.
He puts the objects back in place, and grumbles to himself in Zandali as he reorganizes everything.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Good morning. Apologies for the disturbance. I’ll get out of your way.
Soratha continues to grumble as Vel exits. It appears no one else was present, as there were no classes or anything going on.
She is able to reconvene with the group as they are also waking for the morning. Tae’shara waves.
'Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Ya have a nice rest, Vel?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Quite. I spoke with Tellius. It was quite pleasant. Which you’ll be happy to hear, Shara, it’s just more of the same in regards to your father up in Northrend. They set off on an expedition. It seems they found an interesting source of ore.
'Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Oh, is that for real? That’s good. I, uh, I’m hoping I can reach out to talk to him at some point. I’m sure my dad back in Tanaris is probably keepin’ appraised of the situation. I try and make sure I can talk to him every now and then if I can. I got a stone linked up with his. I didn’ get it before Arlethal left, but at least I can still talk to Tae’thelan.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I can always send you to him via dream sometime if you would like.
Tae’shara blinks and scratches the back of her head.
'Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Oh. Well. I’m… not sure of Tae’thelan would like that or not, but I can always ask ‘im and see what he thinks. Though no rush on that, he’ll probably just lecture me a bit.
She chuckles.
'Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: I’ve been makin’ reports when necessary. Plus I’ll be sendin’ stuff back later on. But thanks, I appreciate it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I spoke with Magister Bloodsworn as well and attuned our sending stones. If anything does change regarding Arlethal, he said he would let me know.
'Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: I’m glad. Thanks for that, Vel. Ya didn’t have to do that, but ya did, so thanks.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was up there anyway.
Aramar Thorne says: So how’s Tellius doing?
Velameestra Windrunner says: He’s doing well. We actually just spent most of the time exchanging notes. He… unfortunately has been unable to find much on the Hidden, but he speculates that’s largely because they just have very little to track given they are so new. He suggested figuring out who this Malus character is first.
Aramar Thorne says: Yeah, I guess that would be the question.
Remnii says: I wager they will find us.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I said more-or-less the same.
Aramar Thorne says: If they do, I’ll have to give them a piece of my mind.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Which, Tellius did inform me to tell you to make sure you’re drinking water.
Aramar laughs.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Though he was quite sure Makasa would take care of that.
Makasa laughs as well and nods.
Makasa Flintwill says: I have been playing the babysitter for the last ten years. So I suppose it is to be expected he would levy such a responsibility on me.
Aramar throws a pebble at her, and she catches it.
Aramar Thorne says: You know, I’m not a kid anymore. And I didn’t need your help to begin with! You’re only here because my dad told you to stay!
Makasa nods.
Makasa Flintwill says: To stay and to watch you, and unlike some people, I listen to my captain.
Aramar pouts and the two of them bicker.
Samaara looks to Seria.
Samaara says: I’m curious, have you resolved your responsibilities here, or do you need more time? I simply wish to see what our course of action is. I understand that you are seeking this Zalazane… but is there any further legwork to do with that at the present, or…?
Seria shakes her head.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I actually wouldn’t mind having a brief follow up with Rokhan. I have a few theories I wanted to bounce off of him.
Samaara nods.
Samaara says: That would not be a poor idea. I would like to thank some of the caretakers here for their hospitality as well. They had no need to open their resources to us, but they did. Perhaps we will leave around midday then?
Velameestra Windrunner says: That sounds fine by me.
Remnii says: As long as everything is done.
The weather appears to be quite clear, though a tad windy. However, the early morning is cooler than it had been. The winds offer a refreshing, though humid, breeze off the ocean.
Vel also notes Zen’tabra, who had been heading towards the group upon seeing them clustered together talking..
Velameestra Windrunner says: I suppose you’re Zen’tabra?
Zen'tabra says: Oh, heh, look at that, there be another one!
Velameestra Windrunner says: My name is Velameestra. It’s a pleasure.
Zen'tabra says: The pleasure’s all mine! The name’s Zen’tabra. Old friend of Seria’s mada, now new friend of all of you.
The druid gives a smirk with the rest of the group as she repeats her introduction from the prior night.
Zen'tabra says: Ya missed all the fun last night, Miss Velameestra!
Velameestra Windrunner says: Likely for the best. I’m afraid I’m a bit of a stick in the mud.
Zen’tabra chuckles.
Zen'tabra says: Then I’m sure ya get along with Seria just well, don’t ya?
She gives Seria a wink as she nudges the other druid with her arm. Seria sighs heavily, and Remnii puts a hand over her mouth to prevent from chuckling at the obvious jab.
Zen'tabra says: I guess I didn’ have the opportunity to t’ank you as well, for everythin’ you’ve been able to do for Seria. There be a lot I be asking of her, a lot more than I should, but I am never gonna be askin’ anyone to do something I wouldn’t do myself. It seems you are in an interestin’ position with these handsome young men you be travelin’ with!
She inclines her head towards Tol’vas and Broll.
Zen'tabra says: I be hoping that Seria can start to make some connections with the rest of their druids! After all, there be bad mojo in the Emerald Dream, and there is only be so much I can do as one woman. As long as you walk the wakin’ world with Seria, you have my thanks for helpin’ her out. And I know that you are all working on somethin’ with Rokhan as well, so you have my thanks there as well. I’m sure it be real important.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Glad to help.
Zen'tabra says: When it come to showin’ him what for, let me know. I’ve got a piece of my mind to show ol’ Zalazane myself.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I imagine many people do.
The group takes a brunch of a hearty stew. Zen’tabra goes out of her way to assure Aramar that the stew is not made of human, and if it was it would have been a lot thicker. However, it was thin enough that it could be elf.
Zen'tabra says: But who’s keepin’ track, eh?
She flashes Seria a wink.
Before the group starts to pack up, Seria grabs Rokhan and Zen’tabra together with Riff.
Rokhan says: This seem like an important conversation. Let’s have it at my place. It be real nice and secure, in case you worried about other people listenin’.
They head into Rokhan’s hut.
Zen'tabra says: That’s the matter, Seria, you seem more serious than you usually are. Somethin’ happen?
Seria says: There’s… more to Riff than what I told you.
Rokhan strokes his beard.
Rokhan says: I had a feelin’. There be somethin’ about ya. Ya got a certain smell about ya, boy. Not a bad one, just a different one.
Riff looks up at him, confused, and then smells his arm.
Riff says: I don’t think I know what ya mean… but I’m glad it’s not a bad thing?
The two adults look at Seria.
Seria says: When I found him, he was an egg. What I thought was inside it was not what hatched… He be a baby loa.
Zen’tabra and Rokhan exchange looks.
Rokhan says: What you mean he be a baby loa, Seria?
Seria looks down at Riff.
Seria says: Go on. You can show them.
Riff looks a bit nervous, and he transforms into his blood serpent form. Zen’tabra covers her mouth, but Rokhan stands his ground and subconsciously reaches for his glaive, but he doesn’t pull it up.
Rokhan says: That be more than a baby loa, Seria.
Riff almost seems to shrink, trying to hide behind Seria.
Rokhan says: Where did you find him?
Seria explains where she had found Riff’s egg.
Rokhan pinches his brow.
Rokhan says: This not be what I was expecting today… I think the trolls ya found slain in the glade was probably Ata’lai priests. Oh… this be… there be more than one way Hakkar be brought back into our world. One is an old, old story. It is the egg of Hakkar, and with a ritual, he can be brought into the world. In the wanin’ day of the troll wars, it was a mess, but there was word on the wind about somethin’. That they were tryin’ to find this. But no one ever found it. I think you did just that, Seria.
Riff says: I’m… I don’t… I don’t know what ya be sayin’...? But… does that mean I be dangerous? I know that Hakkar be a scary loa… what am I then?
Rokhan takes a deep breath.
Rokhan says: I don’t know boy. Your guess be as good as mine. I think… I think it would be for the best if you stayed here, boy. Where I can keep a close watch on ya.
Riff says: But, mister Rokhan, I don’t want to leave mada.
Rokhan looks to Seria and then back to Riff.
Rokhan says: I know ya don’t, and I know ya don’t want to hurt her either. Ya seem like a kind boy, Riff, but we don’t know ya might…
Zen’tabra puts a hand on Rokhan’s shoulder.
Zen'tabra says: I think that be enough, Rokhan. You be scarin’ the poor boy senseless. No wonder ya not a father.
She smacks him in the back of the head, and he looks annoyed.
Zen'tabra says: I got an answer. I see ya all yesterday and all this mornin’, and ya be Riff. Ya are Seria’s little boy. It don’t matter what you are, or what you think you are, it matters who you think you are, what you make yourself. Hakkar be bad mojo, but I don’t think you are, and Seria lookin’ like she’s ready to punch Rokhan in the face be all I need to see.
She looks at Rokhan.
Zen'tabra says: He be on safe on the road with Seria as he be with any of us. We don’t know no more than she does. Besides, I don’t think ya want to make this poor boy cry, do ya? I don’t know if ya can cry, but I’m making some assumptions here.
Rokhan rubs the back of his head.
Rokhan says: What do ya think, Seria? I ain’t gonna force ya to do nothing… I lost the right to do that a long time ago, but I want to do what’s right for you. If ya want… there always be a place for ya here. Then ya can both be here, and we can all watch over him.
Seria says: I’m gonna continue to do what I promised, and take care of him.
Rokhan nods.
Rokhan says: I trust ya. If that be what you think is the best, then… I’m not gonna step in your way. Whatever happens, however this be playin’ out, if you ever need any help, ya know where to find me. For now at least. For what it be worth, Riff, I did not mean to hurt your feelin’s. I lost a lot of good brothers during the last war, and I guess scars be slow to heal, but that’s not your fault. Ain’t none of us got to bear the sins of our fathers. As hard as it is to keep that up sometimes.
Rokhan steps forward and smiles. He reaches out towards Riff, who jerks back a bit, but he allows Rokhan to pat the side of his head.
Rokhan says: I be countin’ on you to watch out for Seria too then, right?
Riff says: Okay mister Rokhan, I be doin’ that. She be my mada after all. I want to grow up big and strong so I can protect her like she protect me.
Rokhan gets a sad, somewhat concerned smile.
Rokhan says: I hope when ya get big and strong you do just that.
He glances at Seria, and then back at Seria again.
Zen’tabra claps her hands together.
Zen'tabra says: Good we came in here to do this, yeah? Would have been quite a show, mon.
Rokhan says: Thank you for tellin’ us. Both of ya.
Seria says: There isn’t anyone I would trust more.
Zen'tabra says: Let me know what ya find out out there. You and those druids have quite the job, but if you ever need me, find me in the dream. We can swap notes and all that, mon.
Zen’tabra grabs Seria by the shoulders.
Zen'tabra says: You and me, we are gonna build somethin’. For all of us, and our children. Well, not my children. I don’t think any man can stand me long enough to put one in me! But we are gonna do this. The world may be out to get us, but uphill battles aren’t so scary when you can fly, yeah?
Zen’tabra gives her a kiss on the cheek and pulls Seria into a hug. Seria hugs her back.
While Seria and Riff had gone to speak with Rokhan, Vel had leaned over to Remnii.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was wondering, Remnii, if you could humor me?
Remnii says: Of course! What can I help you with?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Do you know of any notable orcish necromancers?
Remnii’s eyes almost cross for a moment.
Remnii says: Oh! Um. Something I have not thought about for a few months… but, um… there are cults dedicated to this. It’s not an outlawed practice like it is in other places, such as here.
Vel gives a slight nod of her head.
Remnii says: Why do you ask?
Velameestra Windrunner says: If you recall the grave stride spell I’ve been utilizing. Our initial exposure to it was via a scroll. As I’ve become more familiar with the language, hindsight revealed it had been written in orcish text. Given Zalazane did not create the spell… I’m wondering if an orc did.
Remnii is quiet for a moment as she thinks.
Remnii says: Well… did you find that scroll before or after the Portal opened?
Velameestra Windrunner says: It was before. During Zalazane’s resurgence.
Remnii says: I don’t know much about him. At some point I would appreciate someone catching me up to speed.
Velameestra Windrunner says: At some point I can give you more of the details.
Remnii says: Thank you. But… I could be incorrect, but two orcs come to mind, and one stands out. Gul’dan, you saw him, he is a powerful wielder of magics, and he practices more than one, but he tends to be more involved with the demonic side of the Legion. He has a focus on staying abreast of what they are doing, in every pocket he can find.
She has no small amount of disdain in her expression.
Remnii says: On the other hand, there is Ner’zhul. He disappeared through the Portal with his head mostly chopped off.
Vel blinks.
Remnii says: I don’t know much about him now, and I would be afraid to even find him, but he went through before the orcish Horde did.
Remnii holds out a hand.
Remnii says: It was a whole thing.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Sounds like it was.
Remnii says: But all-in-all, there are certain clans that take up necromancy more easily. The Shadowmoon or the Bleeding Hollow, for instance. But if it was before the Portal, I would wager that it would have to be someone powerful. They don’t come more powerful than those two, and while we were in the Shadowlands, I did see orcs there. Among the rest of the most trollish people. Unfortunately, I was unable to see any markings. They were likely peons or less.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. Those were orcs in Hakkar’s realm. But I wonder… hm.
Remnii says: Unfortunately, I don’t think I could help you right away, but with the right divination magics we could perhaps narrow it down.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It might be worthwhile. I think this puzzle goes a bit deeper, especially given the current circumstances. We may need to look in more unconventional directions.
Remnii says: I’ll be happy to help where I can.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It would be appreciated. Though, on a lighter note, actually. Would you mind taking a jewelry commission?
Remnii shakes her head a little bit with a laugh, given how brisk everything seems to be.
Remnii says: Of course. What did you need?
Velameestra Windrunner says: A gem pendant. I can pay for it, of course. I have a project I have been considering working on.
Remnii says: Of course. We can hash out whatever needs done design-wise. I’m sure I have some stones, or honestly, while we’re here we can perhaps find something before we leave. There may be a good selection. Something to match your blue! Or purple for your coat? No, your tattoos are blue. I don’t know, we can talk about it. Walk with me.
As they discuss, Remnii laughs as she quickly realizes that what Vel had in mind was, in fact, not blue at all.
After some time, Seria, Zen’tabra, Riff, and Rokhan return, and Vel takes the opportunity to also follow up with Rokhan. Seria opted to run off to do something with Riff in the meanwhile.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Just a brief note I wanted to bounce off of you, if you don’t mind.
Rokhan says: Sure. What you got for me?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was wondering if you were familiar with a type of undead known as a lich.
Rokhan scratches his beard.
Rokhan says: I know a thing or two about more than a couple of types of the walkin’ dead, yeah.
Vel describes the traits of a lich, and Rokhan nods.
Rokhan says: I’ve heard a thing or two about that, yeah. I ain’t ever heard the common phrase for it, but yes, I think I know about them. Sometimes they be called life spectres. That be the closest translation.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s my current theory that it may be what Zalazane is. Given he’s active despite the destruction of his body, such an identity would remedy that situation.
Rokhan says: Actually, that be a good question. I’ve asked around a bit, but you and your friends be the ones that fought him when he came back from the dead the first time, yeah? What did he look like then?
Velameestra Windrunner says: His arms were completely skeletal, and his face, once we got his mask off, was partially sunken in.
Rokhan says: Well, that don’t sound like one of these liches, but it’s entirely possible he’s gotten more powerful since then if he’s been able to evade ol’ Bwonsomdi a second time. It be possible, but it be hard to say what that might mean about all of these. What do you know of these liches from where you come from?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I know their essence is contained in what we call a phylactery. Effectively, it’s an anchor point for their soul that they can reform from. One that they create. And they need to feed upon souls to continue powering said phylactery. Which I do know that, while we were contending with him, there was much more focus placed upon Hakkar. That’s why I was a tad surprised he was perceived as likely not involved with the initial attempt at summoning him. He seemed quite keen on it the second time around.
Rokhan says: Well, from what you told me about what happened, and what I’ve been able to find out, I don’t think he was trying to summon Hakkar back to the realm for anything other than his own personal gain. I think he wanted the Dread Lord’s power for himself. He didn’t want to worship him. From what I know, Zalazane bit the dust before the Battle of Zul’Gurub during the war. But I don’t think he had anything to do with it. That, or he was real deep in it. Deeper than any of us could have known. Deeper than Vol’jin could. But it’s possible.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It was more just a theory I wanted to pose, in either sense.
Rokhan says: It’s real interestin’. It sounds similar to some of the stories that we’ve got. They be feastin’ on spirits and things within the physical realm. It’s said they live within the border between here and De Other Side. If that be the case, it’s gonna be real hard to find where he be hiddin’. But I think we can do it if we use that. If he’s got one of these phylactery things, if we find it, that would be real helpful, mon.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I don’t suppose that may count as both his mind and his body?
Rokhan says: It uh… I don’t know. But it could perhaps count for one of them. It would solve a few of our problems if you could find somethin’ like that. But findin’ it may be harder than it seems.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Oh. I didn’t think it was going to be easy by any regard. More other routes to the same conclusion.
Rokhan says: I think you may be on to somethin’, mon. But this be gettin’ me worried. If he be one of these liches, in our own stories they feast upon the spirits of the dead. And if I’m not mistaken, Seria said there be other spirits missing too, yeah?
Velameestra Windrunner says: So if that’s the case, he may also try to find those spirits that also escaped.
Rokhan says: Or he already did.
Vel tilts her head slightly as her mind works.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, I suppose that would be troubling.
Rokhan says: Well either way, I suppose we’ve got a bit of a search. I’ll put some feelers out.
He looks upward, and they hear the sound of wingbeats in the air. As Vel follows his gaze, she sees a bunch of flying figures starting to return. There are some hoots and whoops and hollers that could be heard.
Rokhan says: The batriders are back. Maybe I can get some of them to look into some things. Maybe I can borrow one for myself.
Vel can see troll warriors riding the bats as they come down, seemingly returning back from some sort of excursion.
Rokhan says: Things on the northern islands have not been so bad. Once we beat back the witch and some of her minions, maybe we can spare a bit of manpower to look around to see if there’s evidence of one of these wraiths.. One of these liches, as you say.
Velameestra Windrunner says: In the meanwhile, I’m sure either Seria or myself can keep you apprised of anything we find.
Rokhan nods.
Rokhan says: I appreciate that. I can’t say I’ve ever had the opportunity to work with an elf before. Can’t say I expected to. I don’t mind it. You’re not half-bad, Velameestra.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Happy to hear it. You’re not bad yourself.
Rokhan says: I… I know you be leavin’ soon, but I got a bit of a personal request for ya. You don’t got any responsibility to do it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: What can I do for you?
Rokhan says: It be about Hakkar.
Vel looks at him quizzically.
Rokhan says: I don’t suppose you know where Seria found the boy, do ya?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Seria has been largely sparse in a lot of the details she’s offered. I know she found him during her treks through the wilds, anyway. On a battlefield, though she did not specify beyond that.
Rokhan says: I think the egg he hatched from was a bit more powerful than any of us realized. I don’t know what Riff is, but I be worried about what he might become.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You’re asking me to keep an eye on the situation? Is that correct?
Rokhan says: I want to trust everything. I want to trust the kid’s a good lad and wouldn’t do somethin’, but I’ve ignored my instincts before, and it’s gotten people I loved killed. I don’t want that to happen.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I can keep an eye on things. I’ve found myself involved in some aspects as is. He’s a bright kid. Unconventional, but bright.
Rokhan says: That be good to hear. I just hope it stays like that though.
Velameestra Windrunner says: As is the hope of many people.
Rokhan says: It is. I took up enough of your time as it is. I owe you one, Velameestra.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well how about this?
She fishes in her satchels and retrieves the fetish she had retrieved from the dead harpies.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Maybe you can tell me what this might be for.
Rokhan blinks as he takes the fetish and examines it.
Rokhan says: Now where did you get this from?
Velameestra Windrunner says: From a flock of harpies we encountered on the way over.
Rokhan says: Oh. They be bad news, they are.
Rokhan reads through the text on the fetish.
Rokhan says: This be quite the find. A real dangerous one, I think. It’s hard to know the curse without knowing the intention. Looking at this, I got a couple of ideas. Sometimes what a curse does isn’t that obvious at the first glance. From the sound of it, you might think someone would go blind at the sight of the sun, or get some sort of sensitivity to the light, but I think it’s somethin’ more. This look to me like a banishment hex. With this mojo, one probably can’t be born in the sunlight. Hard to say what would happen. Perhaps they would be trapped on De Other Side until the sun is gone. Maybe they be turned to stone. But I think it be more than that. You sure you want to hold on to this?
Vel considers for a moment, then shakes her head slightly.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I largely was holding onto it so no one would find it and use it. I’m not someone that dabbles in curses and hexes much, at least not beyond the necessity of breaking them.
Rokhan says: We shadow hunters know a thing or two about hexes. I’d be more than happy to take this off your hands.
Velameestra Windrunner says: By all means. I’m sure it’ll be safer in your hands than mine, traveling about.
Rokhan nods.
Rokhan says: I’ll make sure this doesn’t get used. But it may come in handy. We’ll have to see. But you be doin’ good to hand this over. You wouldn’t want this to fall into the wrong hands.
Velameestra Windrunner says: No, certainly not. But thank you, Rokhan.
Rokhan says: Thank you, Velameestra. I hope your travels are successful.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You and me both.
As the group packs up to leave, Tae’shara is loading up on fruits from the marketplace.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Aye! Hey Tol’vas can I get your help with this?
Tol’vas walks over to help her.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Thanks, I appreciate it. Think I can get your help on somethin’ else?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: What would that be?
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: See, I climbed up a tree the other day, and I think I dropped something in it. I can’t find it. Can you help me? It’s over here. It’s a small comb. Helps me take care of my crazy hair.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: This is a very strange request.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: I know. I also almost fell. I’m a bit scared to climb again, but you’re big and brave so figured I would give you the chance to play the hero.
Tol’vas walks over to the tree and starts to look for this comb. He climbs up the tree to also look around. He finds a brush up there, stuck near one of the branches. He grabs the brush, but it seems to be stuck on something. He pulls it again, but it’s still stuck.
He looks at it more closely, but it just seems to be stuck. He continues to try and pull it, and he gets it free.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: You alright? Did ya get it?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah, I got it.
He starts to climb down, and a breeze of wind comes through. Suddenly, the brush almost starts to fly out of his hand. He grabs it out of the air, and makes his way back down.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: You almost fell there, you alright? I figured you night elves were pretty good at climbing trees. Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Weird wind.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Yeah. By the way, if you don’t mind. I have a knot in my hair. Could you try to work it out for me? None of the other girls have been able to, so could you maybe try?
By this point, it’s clear that Tae’shara is trying really hard to mask a grin.
Tol'vass Moonshadow says: Maybe later. We should be getting ready to leave.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Ya sure? It won’t take long!
Tae’shara snickers.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Sorry, I had to. I wanted to see how far I could push it.
She takes the brush back.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: I’m just fucking with you.
Tol’vas sighs and starts to head off.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Though actually, I have a bit of a question. Why’d you agree to help me in the first place?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You asked.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Is that really all it takes?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Sometimes.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: So, um. What would you have done if it was Vel. Out of curiosity.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: So this was all just to make a point… or idle curiosity on your part?
Tae’shara shrugs.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Maybe a bit of both.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: It depends on what you asked. If she needed help getting a brush out of the tree, that’s one thing.
Tae’shara shrugs again and starts to brush her hair.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: I’m not so convinced. But after all, you did say you know a thing or two about highborne, didn’t ya? You know how they operate. If only we could test that theory, but I don’t think you’d fall for this a second time.
She gives a wry smile.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’ve met enough highborne like her.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: And what’s that supposed to mean?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: That is… hard to put to words.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Is it hard to put to words, or is it just an excuse you’re using? You feel like you’re not supposed to like her, so you’re giving yourself a reason not to. She’s just a bloody person, Tol’vas. Sure, she’s got her oddities, but whatever highborne you’re talking about, I got a feelin’ it’s not so cut and dry.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You think it’s just all black and white for me then?
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: I never said that. It’s just the opposite. I guess if you’re alright with highborne like me, but not her, I guess I want to know what that means, ya know? Sure she was born in a fancy little mansion, but she’s gone through way more shit than I have.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’m sure she has, but a lot of us have gone through things.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: I’m not saying they’ve not, but it’s not a competition. Maybe try not to judge a book by its cover, eh? I know it’s a bit more complicated, but this world has a lot of beautiful things in it. That’s why I’m an archaeologist. Among other things, but that’s the biggest one. And I think the fact you can’t explain means you need to take a closer look. You don’t need to be her bloody best friend, but somethin’ to think about.
She winks.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Thanks for gettin’ my brush though!
She spins on her heel and whistles as she walks away. Tol’vas heads off to also join the others.
Seria and Riff head down to the beach to relax until they have to leave. They see a small group of warriors and headhunters running drills. There are a few dummies that have been set up, and Vanira is there in full gear. She is walking back and forth behind the group of headhunters who are throwing spears and axes at their targets. Zuni is among them, and they see his javelin slam right into the middle of the target.
Zuni says: Oh yeah! Still got it! Twelve times in a row!
Vanira smacks him in the back of the head.
Vanira says: Eyes front, keep drilling.
Riff looks to Seria.
Riff says: Can we watch them? I want to throw things!
Seria smiles and nods, and they head over. They can see bat riders in the sky.
Vanira says: Looks like the scouts be back from Spitescale cove. Zuni, you’re in charge. No fucking around.
Zuni says: Yes ma’am!
He salutes, and Vanira gives Seria a nod as she passes.
Vanira says: If you and your friends are getting ready to go, be safe. Don’t be a stranger. You’re always welcome here.
Seria and Riff watch the group doing drills. Zuni smirks.
Zuni says: Hey Seria, come to check out how much better I am at this than everyone else?
The other hunters laugh. They seem to be around the same age.
Riff says: Can I throw somethin’ too!
Zuni says: Come on over here, boy. Lets get you in the action. As long as that’s okay with your mada!
He looks up at Seria, who rolls her eyes at him. But she nods.
Zuni says: If ya prefer to keep an eye on things, why don’t you come over here to give it a shot yourself?
Seria sighs.
Seria says: Fine.
Zuni says: That’s the spirit! Get over here!
They hand spears to Seria and Riff.
Zuni says: You know how to use these things?
Seria nods.
Riff says: Nope! But I bet I can figure it out! I’m real good with sharp things.
He takes the spear.
Riff says: Oh, this one is real sharp.
Zuni says: You want to make sure you keep your arm straight, and you gotta throw through the target. Like this. Now you try, kid.
Riff says: Alright, here we go.
He throws the spear, and he hits the target, but not anywhere near the middle.
Riff says: Give me another one!
All the other trolls laugh. However, this spear misses completely.
Zuni says: Alright, give your mada a shot.
Riff says: Show them what for, mada!
Some of the other hunters snicker and tease her quietly. Seria throws, and she gets around the same area as Riff got with the first throw.
Zuni says: Not bad, not bad! I didn’t think you’d be able to hit the target on your first go, but that’s not bad.
Seria shrugs his hand off her shoulder.
Zuni says: Wanna give it another go?
Seria grabs the javelin and throws it. It hits the same part.
Zuni says: Ya know what, consistency is better than nothin’! How about I show you how the master does it?
The other hunters groan and roll their eyes.
Seria says: Your mada left.
The other hunters cheer at the burn.
Zuni says: That was a pretty good one. I give ya that.
He twirls a javelin, but he drops it.
Zuni says: I meant to do that!
He grabs the javelin with his foot and draws it back to throw it. It lands right in the center.
Zuni says: Alright, gonna split this one down the center.
However, this throw does not hit the center, it instead knocks one of Seria’s javelins aside. Uther and some of the others also make their way down to the beach where they would be meeting and see the throws.
Riff says: Uther! Why don’t you come and try!
He is waving a javelin.
Zuni says: Woah, watch where you pointin’ that kid.
Uther Menethil says: Well, not one for throwing spears, but I’ll give it a try.
Aramar Thorne says: I will too! Come on, Uther, lets show them how it’s done.
Zuni says: Ohhh! The humans talk a big game, thinkin’ they know the way around a spear!
Drilling Troll says [zandali]: I don’t think these boys know their way around their own spear.
Zuni says: Come on, lets give them a shot!
He holds a spear to Aramar.
Zuni says: Be careful, they’re sharp!
Aramar Thorne says: I think I know how to throw a spear, Zuni.
Zuni then throws a spear to Uther.
Zuni says: And for you. Show us what you can do.
Aramar throws, and the javelin sails right by the target.
Aramar Thorne says: There was a gust of wind. Give me another one!
Uther aims, and his hits right in the middle of the target.
Zuni says: He got a good arm he does!
Uther Menethil says: Not bad!
Zuni says: Not bad at all, you’re a bit short for a headhunter, but I think you got the makings of it. Want another round?
Uther Menethil says: Why not!
Uther hurls his spear and it promptly splits through the head of his first spear. All the trolls lose their mind.
Aramar Thorne says: I hit it too!
This time, Aramar did get a bullseye, but he laughs it off.
Seria says: Oh look, he did the thing he said you were goin’ to do.
Zuni says: I just didn’t want Vanira to get mad at me for breaking the dummies. Now you got to explain this!
He gestures at Uther.
Drilling Troll says: I don’t think he does, boss man. I think you get to explain that one! Shouldn’t we get back to drills? She will be real pissed at you if she comes back and we’re screwing off.
Zuni scratches the back of his head.
Zuni says: Yeah, you’re right.
The trolls start to fade back into their actual drills. Riff returns to the bulk of the party.
Riff says: That was awesome Uther! Death Adders!
He holds two fingers up at Uther, who returns the signal at him, and they start to head towards the rest of the group again.
Riff says: Did ya see that Vel? Uther broke the thing! He let me keep it as a souvenir!
Zuni comes running back over to them.
Zuni says: Actually, I’m gonna need that, Riff!
He grabs the spear head, musses up Riff’s hair,and then runs back to the drills.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Leaving them in the dust as usual, Uther?
Uther shrugs and holds his hands out to the side.
Uther Menethil says: I’ve never thrown a spear before.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Maybe you should pick it up.
Aramar Thorne says: I hit the target too! Just in case anyone was wondering.
Makasa snort-laughs.
Remnii says: I think you did great!
Aramar Thorne says: Thank you!
Remnii claps and Aramar laughs.
Vel approaches closer to Riff, her hands folded behind her back.
Velameestra Windrunner says: By the way, Riff, before we go, I did finish that spell… if you would like to see how it works?
Riff says: Oh didja?! Show me show me show me show me!
Vel smirks and makes an incantation in the air, magenta energy flowing up her arm from her fingertips before settling in her eyes, which take on a magenta hue as arcane circles seem to rotate around her irises before solidifying into a solid glow.
Riff says: That’s so cool! Your eyes are so glowy! This does what we said it did, right?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, it does. Complete with your ideas. I managed to fit all of them in.
Riff says: That’s good! I think the eyes glowin’ was real important, ya know?
Velameestra Windrunner says: The most important part, in fact.
Riff looks excitedly at Seria.
Riff says: Look at ‘dis, mada! Me and Vel made our own spell together! It makes your eyes glow, and ya can see things! Like blood an’ stuff! And when people get hurt! It lets ya track them down! Right? I think so. I don’ remember what it did exactly… can you show me again?
Vel smirks again.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It allows you to see the life forces of nearby entities, so you can see them even through invisibility or darkness if they happen to be wounded.
Riff says: That’s what I meant to say! And it makes your eyes glow!
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s similar to a sort of… infravision, in some sense. And it makes your eyes glow. Yes.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: That’s pretty impressive! Kinda spooky, but, I mean, I can see how it could be useful!
Velameestra Windrunner says: We’ve had a history of problems with invisible targets. I thought it a weakness worth shoring up. Damn imps.
At the mention of imps, everything seems to click for Samaara, and she nods in agreement that such a spell would be incredibly useful.
'''Riff: I’m gonna learn how to do it too!
He suddenly remembers something.
Riff says: Oh! ‘Dere’s one more thing! It’s to do with that other spell ya showed me! I figured out how to do somethin’ special with it!
Velameestra Windrunner says: What did you figure out?
Riff says: Well, you know how you can use it to learn a buncha information and stuff, right?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes.
Riff says: I think I figured out how to do somethin’ special! I think it’s because of my super secret powers!
Velameestra Windrunner says: Be careful, we don’t want Zuni overhearing. He might get jealous.
Vel smirks and Riff laughs.
Riff says: It’s pretty cool! If I have some blood, I think I can show you! I can tell where they at, and if they’re not too far away, I know exactly where they be! And I can even see through their eyes! Sometimes. It makes me a little dizzy though. It kinda makes my head hurt. But it’s pretty cool! I tried it once with a fox! He ran really fast though and I got dizzy and fell over.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well. If you want to show…
Vel produces a vial of blood. Riff looks very excited.
Riff says: Okay! Okay, are you ready?
Riff takes the blood and uses his crimson bond ability, his eyes turning blood red. Over Riff’s head, Vel makes eye contact with Uther and mouth’s “It’s yours” at him. Uther chooses to not resist Riff’s presence, and he can hear his own pulse for a moment.
Riff then starts to walk around, his hands out.
Riff says: Ha! I can see through Uther! And I can hear my own voice! This is really weird!
It’s not a painful experience by any means, but it’s a strange one. There is a pressure in Uther’s eyes, as if blood is rushing to his head. After about twenty seconds, Riff’s eyes snap back to normal, and the pressure fades, leaving a slight headache that rapidly fades.
Riff looks up to Vel and Seria. There is blood pooling around the corners of his eyes.
Riff says: Wasn’t that cool!
Velameestra Windrunner says: Are you alright?
Riff says: Yeah, I’m fine!
Riff staggers a bit, and Seria puts a hand on his shoulder to help steady him. Riff wipes the blood from his eyes, then shrugs and licks it off his finger.
Riff says: Yeah, it’s really cool! And I learned how to do that!
Velameestra Windrunner says: That’s impressive, Riff, seeing you just learned that spell not too long ago.
Riff says: Aww, thanks! I couldn’t have done it without you!
Vel makes a hum of appreciation.
Riff says: Someday I’ll have to show you the other things I can do! I think I can make people move on their own? It’s real cool! I think I can do it. I think.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well that’s good to know.
Riff says: I tried it once! When we was fightin’! I don’t think anyone saw it though.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well, if you want to show it off, just make sure you get someone’s permission before you do that to them.
Riff says: Okay!
Samaara says: Now that we have put our new talents on exhibition.
She smiles at the group.
Samaara says: I believe we’re ready to get going.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I can’t think of anything else that needs taken care of.
Samaara says: Very well, then our next location is the Thunder Ridge, and then seeking out these druids, yes?
Velameestra Windrunner says: It would seem that’s the plan.
Samaara says: Very well.
The group once more takes their wind walk forms, and all the trolls around them watch in no small amount of awe. The hunters stop what they’re doing to see what’s going on.
Zuni says: Take care guys! Don’t be strangers! I’ll keep the spears warm for ya!
Zekhan and Rokhan wave from the far side of the beach.
Zekhan says: Farewell, be safe!
The temperatures start to rise very quickly as the group flies over the ocean, and then the strand, and back into the barrens and rolling, reddish sands--leaving the ocean well behind them (to Vel’s relief).
They find a space off the broken and covered golden road, and they start to make camp for the day.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Well this is interesting. What do you make of this?
She looks at the yellow stones that are jutting out of the sand. Remnii looks at the rocks and puts her tongue to it. It’s not salty, but she doesn’t recognize it.
Remnii says: An attempt was made.
Tae’shara also opts to try it.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Huh. I think it’s glass. I think it’s all glass.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m not an expert on rocks… but is that normally something that appears at surface level?
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: No, not usually. It can appear in deserts though, and very rarely do you find it in these amounts. It’s normally from impact or pressure or winds or other stuff. Some of this is real old, probably.
There are several miles in every direction that seems to be yellow glass. Remnii’s tail wags a bit, intrigued by the new knowledge.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well… if it’s old and caused by impact, a lot of this continent was a battlefield, was it not?
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Chances are it either formed deep underground and came up from seismic activity or somethin’, or it was formed from lightnin’ strikes or meteor impacts. Actually, now that I think about it… we’re meeting Thrud somewhere named Thunder Ridge, righ’? Maybe it’s somethin’ from that.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll take that over fire.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Well, this interestin’. Remnii, wanna help me collect some samples?
Remnii says: Of course!
Vel watches them collect some of the glass, and then opts to collect some herself to maybe give it to Talath later.
Tae’shara and Vel erect the tiny huts for the night, but Tol’vas opts to sleep outside of them.
June 17th
In the early morning, Tol’vas begins to hear something in the material realm. It sounds almost like a vibration, and Vel and Uther also hear it.
They look around, Uther and Vel look towards where Tol’vas is resting. They see a cloud start to get closer, and then they see mosquitos closer to the size of a large parrot start to fly down at Tol’vas.
Tol’vas jerks out of his dream, and he sees those creatures start to descend on him. One of them lands and starts to drink from him. And then another. And another. And another. And another. And another. There are six of the cloud attached to Tol’vas and start to drink his blood.
Vel gets to her feet and whips her wand of arcane missile from its holster as she steps out of the dome, dropping it. She fires off eight missiles, killing eight of the giant mosquitos in just as many shots. Uther follows suit as the dome drops, also casting [Arcane Missile]. He manages to kill four of them, and injured two more.
The remaining mosquitos immediately start to scatter.
Tol’vas uses [Sunfire] centered on himself. The mosquitos on him are incinerated, leaving Tol’vas also quite burnt.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Are… you okay?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah, I’m fine.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: What the hell’s going on? Everyone alright?
Tol’vas casts [Rejuvenation] on himself.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You just missed parrot-sized mosquitos.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: And what was the explosion about?
Velameestra Windrunner says: That was Tol’vass.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Bloody hell, are you alright? Did the mosquitos explode?
She pops her head out of the dome.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’ll be fine.
He lays down to go back to sleep.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: Alright. Lets try to get a bit more rest, eh? Before we get goin’. You can holler if you need any help.
Vel looks at those in her dome.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Do you want me to put the dome up for the last hour or two?
Elissa blinks.
Elissa Cross says: Well. Not sure if I’ll be able to get back to sleep… you can if you want. Tol’vas you can come in too incase they come back for seconds.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’m going back to the dream.
A few hours later, Tae’shara yawns as she drops her dome.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: No more mosquitos, eh?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Doesn’t seem like it.
Tae'shara Sunwatcher says: That’s good. Time to get on the road or the sky, eh?
Broll approaches Tol’vas.
Broll Bearmantle says: Are you sure you’re alright?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah, it’s just a bit of burning.
Broll Bearmantle says: Not the burning I’m talking about.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’ve been attacked by worse than that too.
Broll sighs.
Broll Bearmantle says:If you ever need to speak, I can listen.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’m just not good at words.
Broll Bearmantle says: I am the same. But sometimes speaking helps you find wisdom behind the words.
Tol’vas winces.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Were you trained by Malfurion?
Broll Bearmantle says: Oh. No. I met him, but many aspire to be like him I’m sure.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: It sounds like something he’d say.
Broll blushes.
Broll Bearmantle says: Ah. Well. Thank you. I won’t hold you up from your incantations.
Samaara says: We’ll have to work together to find Thrud.
They set off again, and they get to the area of the Thunder Ridge in about an hour. The wind is hot, and the air is filled with static. There is an ionic scent in the air, and there are clouds over the ridge, but everywhere else is cloudless. There is the sound of thunder rumbling in the clouds, but a similar sound is also coming from the herds of thunder lizards stampeding far below.
However, they also see three figures on one of the high cliffs, and a tent. It’s likely Thrud and her two thunder wolves.
The group starts to descend, and they can see Thrud watching them curiously. They land and start to take their humanoid forms. Thrud had grabbed her hammer in anticipation, and both thunder wolves are growling.
But upon the party revealing their true forms, Thrud smiles, and the two thunder wolves sit up, their ears up in excitement.
Thrud says: So that is how you’ve been traveling so quickly! I suppose that answers many questions. You and your companions are full of surprises.
Uther Menethil says: Well, I did mention when we met that we have made a habit out of performing the impossible.
Thrud says: Well. This may qualify as impossible.
Uther Menethil says: Fantastic!
Thrud says: Were you able to find the Oracle?
Uther Menethil says: We did, yes.
Thrud says: I trust she was helpful?
Uther Menethil says: Yes. But sometimes answers come with bigger questions.
Thrud nods, putting that bit of wisdom to meanings of her own.
Thrud says: I’ve made every preparation I can, but what of the rest of you? I don’t know what may happen when we call the Windseeker here, so we should be ready for anything.
Uther Menethil says: Perfect. I never make plans, so my plans can never fail.
Behind Uther, Vel just sighs.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Given we don’t… actually have much information on what may happen, there’s not much that can be planned for.
Thrud says: I can’t thank you enough for risking yourselves in such a way. I understand you…
She looks at Vel.
Thrud says: Seem to be the kind of person that would prefer to go into this with a more solid plan, so I thank you for going with this whim.
Velameestra Windrunner says: There’s something to be said about adapting on the fly. Even if it’s not my preferred way to do it.
Thrud says: Well. Then if all of you are prepared, let us adapt!
Thrud grabs the two bands that had been retrieved from Garr and Geddon--bands that are long, ornate, and seemingly made from some sort of metal, as well as some tattered cloth--and she turns around to face off the cliff. She takes a deep breath, and lifts her hands into the air.
She starts to speak in a language none of the group can understand, but Seria recognizes it to be similar to that used by shamans when communing with the elements.
Thrud’s voice echoes and synthesizes with the thunder overhead, and the storm clouds widen and spread further over the thunder ridge. The temperature drops a few more degrees, and there is a peal of thunder. The bindings in Thrud’s hands begin to glow, and they lift up out of her grip, and rise into the air.
The thunderheads roil, and a bolt of lightning hits the bindings. There is an explosion, and the group braces themselves as their hair is blown back. The bindings expand, and the wind coalesces out from the bindings, taking a vaguely humanoid shape.
A huge creature manifests, its body made of thunder clouds, and with pauldrons of solid steel. It’s upper body is easily 40 feet high, and it’s lower body a thunderous typhoon. Its head is formless beneath its helmet, and the creature stretches its arms--seemingly yawning.
Thunderaan says: Ten thousand years trapped within mine own bindings can give one such a crick in the neck!
He makes a motion to crack his neck, and lighting explodes.
Thunderaan says: What ho, strange mortals who have called me to this place! Thou aren’t in service of the Firelord, art thou?
Uther Menethil says: No, but it is funny you should mention them.
Thunderaan says: Why is it funny?
Uther Menethil says: Those bindings you’re wearing. Two gentlemen by the name of Baron Geddon and General Garr donated those. With some persuasion.
Thunderaan says: Huh. And thou aren’t pulling me leg, for I do not have one!
He laughs loudly.
Thunderaan says: What for, strange mortals, that thou hast liberated my bindings and my prison from those dastardly servants of the Firelord. If thou are enemies of him, thou are a friend of mine!
Thrud says: Great Windseeker, I regret to inform you it’s been a bit longer than ten thousand years.
Thunderaan says: Ah. You don’t happen to know how many years it has been, do you?
Thrud looks at Vel, who shakes her head, unsure.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: What was the last thing you remember?
Thunderaan says: Being struck down and robbed from my power!
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: What about here?
Thunderaan says: I wasn’t here. I was in Skywall. The place of my origin!
Tol’vas doesn’t know the name Skywall, but he knows that the elementals have pocket dimensions of their own.
Thunderaan says: I shall return there and demand of my lord father how much I have missed. It seems thou have released me from an ages old prison, and I thank you for allowing me to adapt to this epoch after I gather my strength. You have my thanks, mortals! If you have something to ask of me, I will do what I can!
Thrud says: On that note, Prince Thunderaan, your highness. My lord father has been blessed with the same might as you and your brothers and sisters, but he has seen a darkness. It is with your blessing that I hope to bring clarity to the clouds that have covered his eyes, and end the storm of his sadness and grief. I hope to prove myself worthy by bringing you back to this world. I’m glad you’re glad to be back as well.
Thunderaan ponders.
Thunderaan says: Hm. Hm. An interesting proposition that you grant me. Very well, what is your name?
Thrud says: Thrud.
Thunderaan says: Very well, Thrud, child of the storms. I can grant your request, and perhaps you may grant me a boon, for I have not recovered all my strength, but in order to do so, I must return to the land of my origin. Perhaps a contest is order. If you can prove yourself worthy of clearing these storm clouds, and command these storms… should you succeed, I will benefit, and fall into the land of my origin, and return my strength to its former glory. What say thee?
Uther Menethil says: You have my hammer.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: If I banish him, would that be bad?
Thunderaan says: That would be foul play!
Thrud says: We will take your test.
Thunderaan says: Very well. Prepare yourselves then, and I shall do the same! How many of you should I test myself against?
The two thunder wolves step forward, but Thrud holds out her hand.
Thrud says: Skoll, Hati, I can handle this.
Uther steps forward, as does Vel. Tol’vas steps forward rather unenthusiastically.
Remnii says: The strength of my friends is my own. I will help.
Samaara says: I would like to help, but I’m not sure how well my arrows will travel in this wind.
Arthas Menethil says: I don’t need to worry about arrows.
He puts a hand on Uther’s shoulder.
Arthas Menethil says: You have my axe as well.
Riff says: I want to help too! Don’t worry, I’ve been ready for this!
The storm is starting to get more dramatic around them.
Elissa Cross says: I’ll leave this to you, Uther. Good luck! I’ll be cheering for you!
Thunderaan says: So you will be the companions of Thrud then? Very well. Let me even these odds then!
He raises his hand to the sky, and three bolts of lightning strike the ground, and burst into existence.
Uther Menethil says: Prince Thunderaan, a word before we begin?
Thunderaan says: Of course!
Uther Menethil says: You have interest in the continued existence of this world, yes?
Thunderaan says: Correct!
Uther Menethil says: An enemy seeks this world’s destruction. Far to the east in my home. It fear it will take our entire world to stop them.
Thunderaan says: Is that so? Then I would advise you hold nothing back, for I will do none of the sort! Prove yourself worthy of my might, and perhaps then we can speak further on such matters!
Another bolt of lightning strikes the earth in front of them, and they see a gigantic blade. Thunderaan grabs it.
Thunderaan says: Thou should count your blessings that I am not at full strength, or my power would be discombobulating! But I shall hold nothing back!
Riff claps his hands together and slams them on the ground. An aura of energy materializes. He calls out to them, and they can’t hear him. He laughs and steps out.
Riff says: In case he makes more thunder! It’s safe here!
He steps back into the dome of [Silence].
Uther activates his sacred weapon channel divinity and runs to engage.
Thunderaan says: Let us set the stage for our grant conflict!
A bolt of lightning connects his blade with the sky. Three bolts of lightning strike down amidst the group.
An air elemental swoops down on Vel, Remnii, and Thrud, creating a typhoon. Remnii gets hurled toward the cliff, while Vel gets thrown into Thrud, knocking her down.
Thunderaan says: Child of storms, take my boon!
He starts to cast [Haste], but Vel uses [Counterspell].
Thunderaan says: Well played!
Seria changes into a fen dweller, but there’s no sound as she is in the silence bubble. She lurches at Thunderaan, and one fist connects, but the second fist is dodges with preternatural speed.
Arthas Menethil says: Alright, lets give this one a shot.
Arthas draws the blood axe that he had gotten from the quillboar. The axe almost shines with light that refracts off the bloody crystal, and he swings at the air elemental on Vel and Thrud.
Arthas Menethil says: Alright. I can get used to this.
He swings again, but his axe howls right through the air elemental.
An air elemental enters into the silence bubble and slams into Riff, and Riff tries to shield, but he can’t in the bubble. He curses silently, but then he starts laughing as he is hit. He almost seems to be mocking the elemental, which had definitely hit him but is not doing any damage.
Tol’vas casts [Mark of the Wild] of Uther. The paladin is wrapped in the image of a spectral worgen, and Tol’vas then uses [Shillelagh].
Another elemental soars into Remnii and Arthas and tries to whirl around and throw them aside, but they hold their ground.
Remnii gets back to her hooves and casts [Mass Healing Word] on all her allies, sans Vel. She then starts to step away.
Thunderaan says: Not so fast!
He makes a strike at Remnii, which cuts through her--however, the damage materializes on Uther instead as he uses [Righteous Defense].
Remnii says: Thank you!
She then casts [Mind Sliver] on the air elemental.
Thrud’s eyes crackle, and she slams her hammer on the ground as she casts chain lightning on all the enemies. Thunderaan seems to be completely immune, but the bolt of lightning jumps successfully between the air elementals.
Vel activates her bladesong, and then she casts [Steel Wind Strike]--materializing behind all the existing elementals and Thunderaan. She successfully strikes all but one air elemental in a display of arcane swordplay, before she rematerializes in the silence bubble next to Riff. One of the elementals tries to strike at her illusion, but it passes through her before it locates where she landed, clearly goaded.
Thunderaan says: An excellent display of martial prowess! Let me answer in kind!