Appearing Characters: Aramar Thorne, Cordana Felsong, Daelin Proudmoore, Elissa Cross, Emmarel Shadewarden, Kor'vas Bloodthorn, Makasa Flintwill, Maraad, Medivh, Naisha, Nuuri (Projection), O'ros, Remnii, Riff, Samaara, Seria, Sira Moonwarden, Thalyss Greyoak, Tol'vas Moonshadow, Tyrande Whisperwind, Uther Menethil, Velameestra Windrunner, Velen
July 28th
Thalyss smiles.
Thalyss Greyoak says: You are the last face I was expecting, Tol’vas. What are you doing here? And who are these people?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: People I met along the way…
Tol’vas goes around and quickly introduces everyone.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: But, what are you doing here?
Thalyss Greyoak says: Traveling around. Bearing with me the seeds of the Dream and seeking places where they can grow and be fostered into new life. But you’ve only partially answered my question. The last time we saw each other…
He trails off.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I was pulled from the Dream. I managed to escape with the Scythe… and they will coming here eventually.
Thalyss cocks his head with a furrowed brow.
Thalyss Greyoak says: And the… affliction? Goldrinn’s rage? You have it under control now?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Largely… I’m still affected by the full moon and there have been occasional spikes. Mostly when my life was in peril.
Thalyss looks to the rest.
Thalyss Greyoak says: I presume this human is with the rest of you?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: One of ours.
Thalyss offers a kind and gentle smile. He’s a bit taller than Tol’vas and a little willowy.
Thalyss Greyoak says: Well I was able to assist you.
He bows his head.
Thalyss Greyoak says: My name is Thalyss Greyoak. You are in my home for the time being until I choose to move on. I found your companions when he was beset upon by strange figures… he had a strange affliction. I purged it from him and put him into slumber so he could recover. He should be alright.
Makasa Flintwill says: Much appreciated.
Thalyss nods.
Thalyss Greyoak says:: I could not help but notice…
He looks at Medivh, who was still leaning against the wall trying to recover.
Thalyss Greyoak says: It appeared you and your friends arrived by arcane means…
He looks at Vel.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, that’s correct.
Thalyss Greyoak says: Curious times indeed.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You said strange figures… what kind?
Thalyss Greyoak says: They were led by a human with a terrible blade that seemed to pulse with fel and shadow. He had a curious cadre. Strange, massive creatures, not to mention strange avian-like humanoids, though not like the harpies of the high mountains. They seemed mercenaries for the most part. But there was an unmistakable aura of malevolence. It was all I could do to spirit your companion away. I could tell they would best me if I were to attempt to stay longer. Fortunately, I knew the terrain well, so I was able to delay them.
Velameestra Windrunner says: So they’re still somewhere in the caverns then?
Thalyss Greyoak says: Far from here, yes. These areas have been patrolled heavily by the Watchers as of late…
He looks over at Remnii.
Thalyss Greyoak says: As I understand it, this has something to do with entities like you.
Remnii bows her hand solemnly.
Remnii says: It is a misunderstanding, I assure you.
Thalyss looks back to Tol’vas.
Thalyss Greyoak says: In spite of everything, I have no reason to disbelieve you. And if you trust her, then I will as well. You mentioned you had the Scythe of Elune?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yes. Staghelm has it now.
Thalyss Greyoak says: I see. Well at least it will be safe for now.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I can’t say I know him.
Thalyss Greyoak says: He rose to prominence shortly after you were imprisoned. He is talented, and though stern, he is fair. Though I don’t know him well, I did have the privilege of seeing him act. While I did not participate in the War of the Shifting Sands as war is not where I thrive, I do understand that without his guidance many more lives would have been lost. Though I’m sure you’ll need to prove your case, I’m sure you can do so.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I can hope at least. I am also just unfamiliar with the Cenarian Circle.
Thalyss Greyoak says: Yes. I suppose it was created after… I can tell you what I know of it. But first, do you know who these men were? These entities that hunt your friend?
Velameestra Windrunner says: They’re affiliated with the Legion.
Thalyss Greyoak says: I see. That seems troubling.
Velameestra Windrunner says: We also have other companions that are still lost. Have you seen anyone else?
Thalyss Greyoak says: Unfortunately not. But it’s possible they are not too far. I would be happy to help you track them down if you required assistance. Though I should ask… are these Legion mercenaries, are they the only ones seeking them?
Velameestra Windrunner says: No, the Watchers are as well.
Thalyss Greyoak says: Why is that?
Vel looks at Tol’vas.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Well… the Dream is not the only thing I’ve escaped recently…
Tol’vas goes into a brief summary, and Thalyss slowly covers the lower half of his face. As they are talking, Seria notes something feels off. There is a feeling of the hair on the back of her next standing up, as if something is close. She looks around, and she notes the distant lights off the water in the northern section seems to dim. Then two bright red eyes seem to be glowing, looking down at the group. Then two more sets appear next to it.
Then there are the subtle sounds of breathing, large movement, and silent metal scraping. Then multiple large creatures emerge along the riverbed. They are quadrupedal, armored night sabers, and each of them have a Watcher riding it. The one leading them is a Warden. There is a silent entity looking down at them, a long glaive in its head and emanating shadow magic.
The Warden holds her umbral crescent up.
Night Elf Warden says: Not an inch further, criminals. Throw down your weapons and mercy shall be shown. You are under arrest for multiple counts of murder, and the release of the Betrayer. Stand down and perhaps you’ll be brought back with your lives.
Uther Menethil says: No. I don’t think I will.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: We didn’t murder anyone.
Night Elf Warden says: Your words mean nothing, traitor.
The Warden snaps her fingers, and the group shoots into a combat formation. Thalyss looks at them with wide eyes.
Thalyss Greyoak says: Lady Watcher, there has been a misunderstanding--
Night Elf Warden says: Stand aside, druid. This has nothing to do with you.
However, as the Avatar of Vengeance leaps down, two arrows strike into the shadowy creature as Samaara jumps out from hiding. The avatar bats an arrow of the air, its eyes focused on the group.
It also sounds like more people are coming.
Samaara says: There are more reinforcements coming! We should get out of here!
Tol’vas puts a hand on the ground and casts [Plant Growth], starting to make the entire area become overgrown.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: That should slow them down! Thalyss, I don’t expect you to follow, but I don’t have time.
Tol’vas promptly runs and jumps off the waterfall. Uther casts [Feather Fall] to catch the group, and Tol’vas splashes into the water below.
Uther Menethil says: Everyone off the cliff, make sure you stick the landing!
Remnii grabs one of Thalyss’s hands.
Remnii says: This looks bad, but I promise this is all a misunderstanding! If you come with us, I will explain.
She then squeals and jumps off the waterfall. Aramar seems to have started to stir. Makasa slaps him lightly.
Makasa Flintwill says: Rise and shine, Aramar, we’re going!
She also jumps off the cliff while Seria gets ready to jump.
The Avatar of Vengeance starts to charge at the group, running across the surface of the water and landing in the midst of the group. Vel tries to duck under the Avatar, but its glaive passes right through her sword as she tries to parry, cutting into her. Vel reaches out and grabs both Aramar and Elissa, casting [Dimension Door] to get them down to a rock in the pool below.
Thalyss Greyoak says: I don’t know what’s going on, but I’m going to count on an explanation!
He tries to dispel the Avatar of Vengeance, but is unable to succeed.
Thalyss Greyoak says: Warden, I implore you to cease these hostilities on these grounds or I’ll be forced to take action!
Night Elf Warden says: If you’re going to aid these criminals, then I have no choice but to bring you in as well!
A watcher fires two shots at Seria as the pursuers continue to close the distance. Another watcher shoots at Uther, causing him to go down on one knee for a second.
Elissa looks around as she appears with Vel.
Elissa Cross says: What are we going to do?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m hoping Tol’vas had more of a plan than just jump.
As Uther staggers backwards, the Warden holds her hand out and clenches her fist at Uther. He feels his armor starts to feel impossibly heavy, but he is able to break free of the [Hold Person]. The Warden hisses and hurls two daggers at him. One glances off his armor, while the other manages to nick his cheek, but the poison does not take effect. Down below, Aramar continues to stir.
Aramar Thorne says: Where are we? What’s going on?!
Velameestra Windrunner says: Getting assaulted by Watchers.
Aramar Thorne says: Again!?
Uther continues to get dogpiled as Samaara runs forward and takes two shots at one of the Watchers and then leaps into the water below. One of the Spirits of Vengeance jumps after her and cuts into Remnii.
Thalyss turns into a giant eagle and flies over the pool, circling overhead.
Uther Menethil says: Alright Seria, lets go!
Seria leaps off the waterfall, and Uther uses [Thunder Step] to get to the pool below. For a brief second, Seria sees another shadow--and she sees the oracula which grins at her. She feels a sharp pain over her eyes, but she looks away at the last second.
The Avatar of Vengeance leaps after the group and plummets onto Remnii who is treading water below. Aramar scrambles to his feet and hurls a [Guiding Bolt] at the Avatar, which is now flickering with holy radiance as the spell connects. On the cliffside, the Watchers take pot shots at the group, bit Vel is able to deflect the arrows with a [Shield] spell.
The night saber stays on the cliff, but the Warden swan dives into the water. She uses [Hunter's Mark] on Tol’vas and swings twice, but the attacks miss.
Seria turns into a plesiosaur and dives underwater. She notes the water seems to be fairly well lit, and there seems to be some sort of freshwater reef. She sees a giant root from Nordrassil, as well as a large tunnel on the far wall. She screeches, and Tol’vas is able to roughly translate.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Grab onto Seria!
Remnii grabs onto Seria and uses gift of the naaru to heal herself. And Tol’vas transforms into a shark.
Elissa holds her hand out and three star bursts shoot out, crackling in the air. The Spirit of Vengeance shatters. With some urging from Vel, Elissa also jumps in the water and starts to swim.
A loud voice calls out, and they recognize the voice as Naisha--the Watcher that had gotten their items checked in when they first arrived in the Barrows.
Naisha says: Please don’t run! You’re going to make this a lot more complicated! We already have two people in our custody! If you want to see them again, please throw your weapons down.
Samaara fires an arrow, and the arrow shoots right through the Avatar of Vengeance--destroying it.
Thalyss flies onto one of the rocks and he transforms back into his humanoid form. His eyes glow, and he casts a [Wall of Thorns] in front of the Watchers.
Vel uses bladesong and then grabs Aramar and casts [Dimension Door] on the pair of them, teleporting to the cave that had been pointed out. They drop into the water and start to swim, Vel wincing as the running water starts to burn at her skin.
Uther uses [Dimension Door] and gets himself into the cave. The Warden makes a few more pot shots, and the group is being actively pursued.
Aramar smiles and grabs Vel’s hand, dragging her to the surface and heaving her out of the water so she can more easily scramble out onto land on the other side of the cavern. One after another, the others join them--including a very soggy Medivh-raven.
Three other Wardens had joined the pursuit, including Sira Moonwarden.
Vel dives back into the water and casts a sphere of [Wall of Force] to block the tunnel. The first Warden teleports in, but then hits another wall and realizes that they don’t know how many more walls there are and they start to retreat.
Tol’vas dispels the hunter’s mark from him and they see a small fish materialize and then transform back into Thalyss.
Thalyss Greyoak says: Well. It seems you’ve made quite a number of friends. We should keep going. I’ll make sure they lose your trail long enough for you to explain what’s going on.
The group travels for about ten minutes or so, Thalyss helping to cover their trail with [Pass without Trace]. Tol’vas explains the situation.
Thalyss Greyoak says: It sounds like there’s a grave misunderstanding. If you allow it, I would return with you and speak with these draenei. If they are as kind as you say, then I will do what I can to help dispel this confusion so no more lives will be lost.
Vel had been using [Prestidigitation] to dry everyone off.
Remnii says: Thank you Vel, and thank you Thalyss. We will be happy to speak with you.
Thalyss Greyoak says: I can understand why they want to bring you in… but there seems to be more to it. If you were actually villains, it’s more likely you would try to harm them more than you did. There were lives lost?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Not by our hand.
Samaara says: Our people also inflicted no serious injuries or casualties.
Aramar Thorne says: No. Not to them. It was hard, but we were able to escape without killing anyone.
The tunnel continues to lead into the system of underground areas, and they are able to put a decent degree of distance. Remnii uses [Scrying] on Tae’shara as Vel sends her to tell her to let the scrying through. But, the ball goes cloudy as the scrying failed.
Remnii says: She is unseeable as well.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: So what’s your plan then?
Velameestra Windrunner says: We should see if the Wardens actually have them. If it was just bluster and they are just in the possession of the Hidden…
Makasa and Aramar exchange glances.
Makasa Flintwill says: The Hidden attacked us specifically. While it is possible they were seeking out the others, I think they are seeking Aramar more than anyone else. If they have been captured, it’s most likely by the Wardens. Unless there are more than these Hidden than I thought there were. The ones we encountered were the same ones from the Wavestrider. With a couple of extra. But if there is something you can do to confirm that, then I suppose it might be wise. I think at this point it might be better to cut our losses for the evening.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Remnii, could you ask your gods?
Rem opts to cast [Commune] and asks if Arthas and Tae’shara are with the Hidden, and she gets a negative reading. She then asks if they are with the Watchers, and she also gets a negative. She also then asks if Naisha was lying, and the force responds that there was no deception in her words.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Okay. So the Watchers have both of them… what’s our approach to this.
Velameestra Windrunner says: If the Watchers have them… they were ultimately not involved in the release of Illidan. Hopefully nothing will happen to them and if we unravel the present conflict they will be released to us…
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: So we just leave them with the Watchers for now?
Remnii says: We may have to.
Samaara closes her eyes in contemplation.
Samaara says: Luckily, if you were the ones responsible for releasing the Betrayer, then you are the ones their wrath will be focused. I fear their security will be significantly stronger now…
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Maeiv does not like to lose…
Samaara says: And we’ve already caused a great deal of loss by so many of us evading her.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: So… I suppose our best bet is then to regroup and figure out what our next step is.
Remnii says: Unfortunately so.
Samaara says: I don’t know where we are, but I should be able to make our way to the rest of the draenei. It will take some time though. Otherwise it may be wise to camp here.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I think we need to get out as fast as we can.
Samaara says: Do you have any way to expedite our travel?
Seria has [Transport via Plants]. Elissa puts a hand on Uther’s shoulder.
Elissa Cross says: I’m sure your dad will be alright. I don’t think they’ll do anything to him…
Uther Menethil says: Of course not. They’re many things, but they’re not stupid. There’s no reason to kill a hostage. I suppose it’s time for me to use my other talents.
Elissa Cross says: Finding the jerks responsible for this?
Uther Menethil says: I was going to say diplomatic negotiations, but I do like your idea much more.
Elissa Cross says: Maybe we can do a bit of both.
Uther Menethil says: Indeed. We should go back and get some rest. We’re no use to anyone exhausted.
Together, they manage to find a large mushroom, and Seria casts [Transport via Plants] and gets back to Timbermaw Hold, leaving the immediate danger of the Barrow Deeps behind. It had been perhaps a half hour since they initially left, and they once more startle a group of furbolgs.
They see Maraad and about six other draenei warriors doing drills.
Maraad says: You’ve returned already. I’m glad to see you’re here. And with more friends it seems.
He notes Aramar and Samaara as well as Thalyss.
Remnii says: We were not able to recover everyone… but more of us are home.
Maraad nods.
Maraad says: Praise the Light you were able to save those you were able, and may it watch over the others.
Remnii nods in agreement.
Remnii says: Has everything been okay?
Maraad says: Not much has changed since you were last here. But now you have arrived, we’ve already seen to you having lodgings while you are here. We may need to leave in time, but for the time being the Timbermaw have expressed their gratitude for you. Grazzle would like to meet all you at some point, and I’m sure Master Velen would like to meet the rest of you as well. Whenever you are ready.
Remnii says: After we rest. I will likely go to him again.
Maraad says: Of course. If there is anything else you need, please let us know. You have worked very hard these last couple of days.
As the group gets into the process of trying to wind down, they are all given large hempen cots to sleep on, and Vel starts to set up a resting place.
Seria pokes around looking for Riff and is unable to find him. Kor’vas isn’t sure where he’s at either, as he had apparently turned into a draenei girl and ran off to play with some kids. Seria managed to find a group of draenei kids after some searching, and after a second she notices a tail that had a feather on it for a second.
Riff says: Mada! Everyone, let me introduce you to my mada!
The draenic kids respond back in draenic as if they understood what he said, and Riff leads a cluster of little draenei over to Seria. However, Seria suddenly hears a crash, and she looks over and sees a human who had dropped something on the ground as they stare at her. They immediately backpedal and run off toward the human tents.
Seria takes note of the situation, but turns her attention to the kids, and eventually breaks off with Riff to head towards their lodgings for the night.
In the meantime, a half dozen marines with Daelin at the head march toward Uther with purpose in their steps. Daelin has a furrowed brow, and is looking around for something or someone.
Daelin Proudmoore says: Fan out men.
Uther Menethil says: Grandfather, anything I can assist you with?
Daelin Proudmoore says: No time, lad. There’s a jungle troll around here.
Uther Menethil says: You must be talking about my friend Seria.
Daelin stops and narrows his eyes at Uther.
Daelin Proudmoore says: Your friend Seria?
Uther Menethil says: That is what I said.
At that moment, Seria notes the group of marines speaking to Uther.
Kul Tiran Marine says: Cap’n! There she is!
Daelin raises a hand.
Daelin Proudmoore says: You neglected to tell me you were traveling with one of those monsters, Uther.
Uther Menethil says: Because I’m not. She’s not a monster. She’s a trusted friend.
The crown of light manifests over Uther’s head, and Daelin’s eyes widen and he takes a step back. He brings a hand to his face and chuckles.
Daelin Proudmoore says: Listen lad, I understand you might think sticking up for her is the right thing. You don’t know what her kind is capable of. What they did to Derrick… if it weren’t for them, he’d still be around.
Uther Menethil says: Him and many others besides. Have we spilt no troll blood? What about us makes us righteous and just while condemns them as monsters?
Daelin Proudmoore says: You didn’t live through the war, lad.
Uther Menethil says: No, but I stopped the third. There are evils among them, certainly. Are we so different? Falric was slain at the end of a human sword. Am I to crusade against my own people for that? Or do I decide the one that slain him was from Alterac, so I should direct my ire at them? Uther the Lightbringer was slain by a bandit in Lordaeron. Do I punish all of my people for one man?
For a moment, Daelin scowls.
Daelin Proudmoore says: You have not seen the depths of their barbarism, boy. The foul rituals they’ve done, the lives they’ve taken.
Uther Menethil says: And how many lives have we taken? Every troll that has met their end has been a mother, a father, a sister, a brother, a friend, a child, a lover, to someone else. They look different. They speak different. But they love, they laugh, they eat, they sleep. If you focus on what separates us, of course, it makes it easy to think of them as monsters and villains, but if you could look past that, there’s far more that unites us.
Daelin grunts and then looks at Seria.
Daelin Proudmoore says: My grandson, the bleeding prince of Lordaeron, is speaking up for you. Give me one reason why I should trust him.
Vel had materialized, drawn by the noise.
Seria says: Ya really gonna ask me that?
Daelin’s hand rests on his saber.
Daelin Proudmoore says: Aye, I just did. Did I stutter, Darkspear?
Seria says: This really be yer grandfather?
Uther Menethil says: I don’t suppose it matters, honored grandfather, I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for her.
Velameestra Windrunner says: With all due respect, admiral--I can empathize with hatred towards those who have taken a loved one. Keenly, in fact. Though that hatred is much better directed towards those actually responsible instead of someone who had nothing to do with it.
Remnii says: And also, would the sins of the parent be put onto the children? Seria is no longer a child, but look at how old she is? Would you rob another family of its wholeness?
Riff takes his troll form.
Riff says: Yeah! She’s my mada, ya know? We’re not afraid of you!
Uther Menethil says: Furthermore, grandfather, I have much to tell you of what’s been happening back home.
Daelin Proudmoore says: Aye. I wager you do, don’t you.
Uther Menethil says: Believe me when I say we are beset by an enemy the likes of which our kind has never known. We cannot afford to pick and choose who our allies are in this fight. The sum total of every living creature must be brought to bear to defeat this enemy if we are to stand any chance of surviving.
Daelin pinches the bridge of his nose.
Daelin Proudmoore says: It would be sacrilege to spill your blood in the sight of beings the draenei revere so much. Give me one reason, girl. One reason to believe that you’d be better alive than dead, or by the Tidemother I’ll see you buried in the ocean. We’ll speak more of this lad.
He looks at Uther.
Daelin Proudmoore says: And we’ll speak of everything else. I see you trust her for one reason or another. Even if I think it’s a mistake, I can respect that. You’re right the death of one troll isn’t going to bring Derrick back. Remember lad, you carry his name with you, and before you protect someone who cannot even speak for herself, remember our family has lost enough. Come on, lads. I need a drink.
He walks out with his marines, his hands behind his back. The other marines look at Seria with a varying degree of vitriol, and one of them looks at her with some amount of sympathy, while others spit at her feet. Riff puts his fingers in his mouth and sticks his tongue out at them.
Riff looks at Uther then with a smile and throws the Death Adders sign at him, and Uther gives the sign back to him.
Velen says: I am… sorry.
A calming voice echoes over the group, and as they look, somewhere in the excitement, Velen had been attracted to the conflict on his way to greet the group. Flanking him are four well armed draenei knights that keep a fair distance behind him. Uther promptly kneels.
Velen says: I am sorry you had to bear that. Prejudice is something even the most ancient and wizened beings must wrestle with, and the pain your grandsire has felt is noted keenly. There is no need for you to kneel to me, my child. If anything, I should be kneeling to you all, for your role in delivering my beloved treasure to me.
Remnii smiles up at Velen and trots to his side. Uther stands.
Uther Menethil says: It was the least I could do. After all, Remnii is responsible for bringing me back from the very brink of death. I may have even stepped over it for a moment.
Velen says: Then that must make you Uther Menethil. I have heard much of you, and it is a pleasure to meet you.
Velen bows his head respectfully.
Velen says: I have heard much of the rest of you as well. I am called Velen. It is a honor to welcome you to this place where the Timbermaw have welcomed us to their home. We are doing what we can to help them with their own problems and challenges. You all will be welcomed here as well, for as long as we remain. I look forward to working with all of you to bring peace to Kalimdor. But you are all tired. We can speak of this in the morning. I just wishes to greet you, and give my sincerest thanks. The destinies you have written for yourselves to bring you to this font are something that I could never forget.
After a moment of silence, he continues.
Velen says: If there is anything I can do for you, or any questions you would ask, I can do what I can to answer. You need only ask Remnii or the Light’s Chosen, and they can summon me. But I will leave all you to your convalescence, and may the Light bless you with pleasant dreams.
He gives a nod with another genuine and kind bow, and then removes himself.
Velen says: If you wish to speak later Remnii, I am ready whenever you are.
Remnii nods.
Remnii says: I do not believe I am ready for sleep yet. I hope you all have a good night.
She looks at the party and then moves to join her father.
Meanwhile, Tol’vas opts to sleep near Seria to watch her back during the night.
Velen brings Remnii to his private quarters in the same chamber with O'ros. She feels his mind touch hers for a moment, and he offers her joy and relaxation. Velen looks at her with a weight on his expression.
Velen says: It is good you are returned to us. Though destiny will drag us in separate directions again soon, we have this moment.
Remnii says: Though we may need to be apart, I…
Remnii sits down on a meditation mat.
Remnii says: It would be hard to lose you and our people as severely as it was last time.
Velen says: Yes. I have done a poor job in the last few years of keeping our people unified. An unfortunate trend of which the Legion seeks to use.
Remnii says: I have taken solace in the fact there is a change on this world. We as a people do not get the option to hide in stronger walls with superior weapons. I could not have arrived here without help, nor will our people survive without help. You told me once that a prophecy you saw, one that I have perhaps clung to too hard, where humans and orcs and elves and trolls and the denizens of this world and the Army of Light are as one against the Legion to defend a place we can call home. A lot of them are here now, for weal or woe. The orcs are here. We are here. And many of the rest have been here. This is their home. I know that a prophecy is just words until it manifests by somebody’s hand. I do what I can to try and shape it.
Remnii feels determined, but somber.
Velen says: I have thought for a very long time, Remnii, I have fought for a very long time. And though I believe that someday the Army of Light will rise and be ready for the battle, the prophecy only ever showed the army rising against a great foe. Never the victor of the battle to end all battles. And for so long, as the result of that battle petrified me, for so long I have led my people with the belief that one day the Legion will fall, but I say this not knowing if such a thing could ever truly be done. Krona ki cristorr… it is something so intrinsic to who we are, and what we have become, and yet… it is built upon nothing more than hope and belief. Things that the naaru have taught us. Perhaps it has been my time away from the Lifestaff that has made me confront this fear. This trepidation. That nothing we do could ever be good enough. But then… I met you. And in that moment, when I first heard your cries, when we first landed on Draenor, when I gazed into your eyes… perhaps for the first time since we left Argus I felt that hope. That hope that Nuuri saw in you. All of those years ago.
Velen reaches over and places a hand on Remnii’s lap, and Remnii clasps her hand overtop of his as she offered a sad smile.
Velen says: I lost a part of my soul when I lost Nuuri. But you brought it back. I truly believe this.
Remnii is quiet as she soaks in the words, her eyes misted over.
Remnii says: I… am happy to hear you talk about yourself, even if it is under solemn circumstances.
She smiles up at him.
Remnii says: There is a new fear. I believe I am glad I know… I would have learned anyway, I’m sure, about what happened on Argus when I was so young. Am I allowed to inspire that hope in people if I come from such evil blood?
Velen says: Remnii…
Velen brushes a strand of hair behind her ear.
Velen says: It is in spite of that blood and the circumstances of your birth that you must.
He removes the headband from Remnii’s head, and holds it tenderly in his hands like the most valuable treasure one could have. He smiles as he looks down at it.
Velen says: My words… my words will carry as much to you as you allow them to, but there is someone more fit to tell you this. Someone whom I trust to tell you more so than anyone in the history of creation.
He closes his eyes and places his hand over the center of the headband. The headband hums, as if something is activating.
Velen says: Only one of Nuuri’s blood could access it. And through my bond to her, I can show it to you as she wished all those years ago.
He looks at Remnii and takes her hand in his other hand. As he removes his thumb from the headband, the center of the headband sparks and projects an image. It’s close, disparate, but it’s the face of a woman Remnii had never seen, but one she knows. It’s Nuuri, and she smiles, the illusion speaking to Remnii. There is a cooing in the background--the quiet sound of a confused baby.
Projection of Nuuri says: Nyrissra… by the time you’re watching this, my spirit will have gone on to whatever comes next. The Light, perhaps? Or the shadow. But no matter what, I’m not afraid to face it, not after having met you.
She wiggles her fingers at the baby off-screen, and a small chubby hand reaches for her.
Projection of Nuuri says: You don’t know me. You may hate me after everything I’m going to put you through, but everything I’m doing is to give you the best life you could possibly have. We’re not going to survive this. So I’m entrusting our hopes and dreams to you, Nyrissra. Mine. Dathremiis, and Remnii. All of them. All of our loves is for you to carry now. It’s not fair for me to ask this of you, and I hate myself for having to, but someday I hope you can understand and forgive me for this. You will have to be what I can’t. What any of us can’t be. So it’s up to you. You must become Dathremiis. You must become Nuuri, and you must become Remnii, and carry all of our light to make sure Velen doesn’t lose himself in darkness. I hope we can meet again someday, in the long, long distant future when all of this is over. And then maybe I can apologize to you in person. But until then… know that I love you. And so does your mother. No matter what Arlaana is forced to do, please don’t give up on her. You can save all of us.
There is another voice in the background.
Young Voice says: Vakos, there’s someone coming.
Projection of Nuuri says: I have to go now. I love you. And Velen, promise me, protect her. Give her a life she deserves. Give her the life you gave me until the end.
She reaches up and presses a button. There’s a beep, and something descends down, and there is a young voice crying. A small chubby hand reaches out again, and the image cuts out.
Velen had started to squeeze Remnii’s hand as the image fades, and the two sit in silence for a moment.
Velen says: I am sorry to have had to show you this. Your burdens are many. But she… she saw great things in you in that moment. And sacrificed everything to bring you me.
Remnii says: I have wondered… since all of this… since from some corner of my memory I pulled the name Nyrissra from…
She squeezes Velen’s hand.
Remnii says: My only thoughts are… can I be enough for your entire family? I do not doubt we are family. But… where I was able to take pride in some amount of ambition and social savvy and understanding, those are not traits that come from you or Nuuri. The kindness, the compassion, so much I have learned and I have been able to become by being your daughter, but when is the point you will be afraid of me and I can no longer help you--
Remnii had started to lean her forehead into Velen’s chest and had started to cry.
Velen says: You are exactly who you are. You are Remnii. You are Nyrissra. You are my hopes and my dreams. And you are my child. My beloved treasure, and my daughter. Nothing you could do would ever make me forget that, or make me fear you. You are so much more than your blood. Do not fear it, Remnii.
Remnii starts to cry harder, and works her way under Velen’s chin. She tries to talk a few times, but instead sobs, and she laughs and cries more.
Remnii says: Thank you for showing me. I would rather see than not. I want and I need to understand, and I am afraid… I am very very afraid, but I am not alone. I have made good friends. I will never be far apart from you again. I cannot. But… I feel bad. I have her name. I have their hopes.
She shakes her head in Velen’s beard.
Remnii says: I only hope I can do them justice.
Velen smiles and settles his chin between her horns.
Velen says: After all of this, I am still awed by how much you and I do have in common. Through all of this. I will share your fears.We may not be able to choose the burdens we are forced to bear, but we can choose who we bear them with. We may not be able to choose who our parents are, but we choose who we love, and who we entrust with our love, our happiness, and our futures. There are none in this world, or the next, that I would trust as much as you, Remnii.
Remnii laughs through more tears.
Remnii says: I have no right to give you some sort of rousing speech and then not expect one in return. I will gladly accept your help, vakas. I will need it. More than I understand, and more than I perhaps will ever know. But… thank you for the trust. I’ve wondered if I should trust myself at certain points. There will be decisions made and hard choices ahead. There already have been.
She sighs and removes herself from Velen’s chest.
Velen says: And on that moment, your wisdom will guide you.
Remnii says: The Light will be with me, and so will you.
Velen says: And do not fret of right and wrong, for when you choose, there is only the path you have chosen. And upon that point, only your wisdom can guide you further. And my wisdom. I do not know if I would do with myself if you decided you no longer wished to…
He pauses.
Velen says: I love you, Remnii. And we will remind each other that we do not walk alone on these paths we must take.
Remnii places her hand on Velen’s cheek.
Remnii says: In all my doubts and all my worries and fears, there has never been any imagining of… I was more worried about you coming to resent me.
Velen says: Lets speak no more of such absurdities.
Remnii says: That should be a weight off both our shoulders. I love you too, vakas.
Velen gets to his hooves, and offers a hand.
Velen says: Come, I would introduce you to O’ros and the others. They have heard much of you.
Remnii says: Give me a moment! I know the naaru do not care about makeup, but oh no!
Remnii fans her face, and Velen helps pull her hair back and placing her headband back in place before giving her a kiss on the forehead before they go to meet the naaru.
That evening, after Remnii finally heads to sleep, her eyes open. She is standing in the Barrow Deeps again. The prison. She feels a presence. Then she hears footsteps.
She turns and sees a figure. She’s a night elf woman, but she’s dark and obscured. However, it’s Tyrande.
Tyrande Whisperwind says: I know what you’ve done, Remnii. And by your hand, the Betrayer is freed, and dozens of innocent lives have been taken. This is your only warning. Return to Hyjal, and face your judgement with the Betrayer in tow, or your friends will never see the two we have in our custody again. I am a patient woman, but do not try my patience, Remnii.
Remnii blinks, and she’s gone. However, Remnii is still in the dream. She’s right outside her former cell. Then she hears sobbing. It’s a voice. One that makes her heart stop.
Desperate Voice says: Is anyone out there? Please! It was a misunderstanding! I didn’t know she was the daughter of that monster!
It’s Yrel’s voice. Remnii starts to follow the voice.
Remnii says: There has been a misunderstanding. If this spell is still here, and you can still hear me…
There is no response.
Remnii says: We will set things right. You’ll see. I pray this will come to an end.
She rounds the corner, and sees Yrel--chained up like Kor’vas was. However, she is just looking down.
Resigned Voice says: It’s no use. They won’t let you out. Not after everything you did for her. Not everything I did for her.
She hears Raluhi, and Remnii looks over and sees him in the cell that was Vel’s. He doesn’t seem to see her. Then she sees Samaara, unbroken.
Samaara says: It was her fault I ended up broken. If I would have stayed with the others, perhaps none of this mess would have happened in the first place.
Remnii tries to fight off tears, but they come anyway.
Remnii says: I’m sorry… I don’t know what to say. But I have to believe this is not you. Raluhi has to be okay without me. I hope the Kirin Tor is caring for him. And Samaara is still capable. She has only gotten stronger.
Another voice comes from behind Remnii, and sees another hall of cells.
Nuuri says: I never should have saved her. I should have stayed by Velen’s side! I could have stopped her! I could have stopped all this!
Then she hears her own voice.
Remnii says: Why did you let her live instead of me, mother? We could have been happy together.
Remnii sees herself, but her skin is more violet, and her hair is more like Velen’s--an imagining of what Remnii would have looked like if she was really Velen’s daughter.
Nuuri says: I’m so sorry, Remnii. I’m sorry she took your name. Your life. It was my fault.
The exchanges continue every time Remnii tries to leave or even blinks, she finds herself in another chamber. She sees Uther. Vel. Arthak. Others. Each of them extolling her secret fears and insecurities.
Remnii holds fast to herself, and she starts to face the dark truths. The last one is Velen, and he seems to see her instead of see through her. And he freezes.
Velen says: Don’t come any closer.
He backs up, taking a few steps against the wall. Remnii stays where she is.
Velen says: You were right. I should have never trusted you. You are, and always will be, his daughter. Not mine.
Remnii says: There is only one pathway forward, and it was neither good nor bad. I will choose to believe what you actually have told me. I’m tired though. Even sleep isn’t safe.
Remnii closes her eyes, and everything is gone. Instead she sees the main antechamber again, and sleep starts to take her once more.
July 29th
It’s not long before Remnii wakes again during the next morning. The rest of the group had been unaccosted in the night.
Vel had remained sleeping for well beyond her normal wake-up time, and Seria had suggested Riff stay not-a-troll for a bit.
Riff says: But, mada, you’re a troll. Does that mean you not be safe? I want to be with ya.
Seria says: When you’re by yourself.
Riff says: Alright mada. I will. But ya gotta be safe too. I mean it. That guy’s a big jerk. You’re my mada, not some sort of monster.
Seria says: Don’t gotta worry about me.
Riff says: Okay. Cause I gotta watch out for you too, ya know? Ya protected me for so long, now I gotta protect you.
Vel finally stirs around eleven in the morning and after she gets herself up and moving, she opts to set up the magnificent mansion so that the draenei and furbolg could make use of the food it offered. After a bit, some draenei start to emerge from the woodwork, and it becomes clear those draenei are mages as they talk excitedly about the magic being used.
At some point, Maraad also tracks Uther down.
Maraad says: Prince Uther of the Menethil!
Uther Menethil says: Maraad! What can I do for you?
Maraad says: I was curious. You’re over here doing your drills, and we’re here doing ours. This seems like a… bad use of space! Come!
He gestures for Uther and Elissa and any others to join him. The drills are not too dissimilar to Uther’s, and Remnii is just watching idly. As they start to wrap up, Maraad calls for the group to take a small break before finishing up for the day.
Maraad says: I have a special idea in mind for the last exercise.
He grins as he glances at Uther.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t suppose you’ll share?
Maraad says: That depends, Prince Uther of the Menethil. Do you know what jed'hin is?
Uther Menethil says: Can’t say I do!
Maraad says: Well! Let me tell you how it works, then.
He explains to Uther something that sounds like a combination of wrestling and shoving contest. He goes into the rules.
Maraad says: I wish to test my skills against you, and perhaps we can see how the others handle it before we throw you in the arena. I would not have you have an unfair disadvantage.
Uther Menethil says: I’m always up for a cultural exchange!
The Vincators start to strip into their underclothes, and a few furbolgs also join in on the spectacle. They start to slam into each other and push each other back and forth. It’s an impressive display of strength and skill, though many of the draenei use their head crests as well.
Maraad grins at Uther.
Maraad says: How about a match to round us off?
Uther Menethil says: I’d be delighted!
Uther starts to shuck off his armor, showing off his scars, and Remnii calls Vel over eagerly to watch as well. Remnii’s face is calm, but her tail is wagging eagerly. Uther and Maraad get into the ring, and Maraad uses his channel divinity to buff himself.
Maraad says: Are you ready, Uther of the Menethil prince?
Uther Menethil says: Well, lets begin!
Maraad rushes forward and tries to shove Uther out right away, getting him right in the gut with his head. He nearly shoves Uther out of the ring entirely, but Uther stays in. Uther wrestles with him and manages to get his leg under Maraad’s leg and gets him to the ground. They continue to struggle, and Uther manages to get on top of him--pinning him.
However, Maraad is able to wrest control of the grapple and stands up again, freeing himself from Uther--just in time for Uther to knock him down again and once more pin him. However, Maraad smirks and gets Uther in a head-hold and they start to wrestle around on the ground.
Maraad says: Is that the best you’ve got, Uther the Menethil!
Uther Menethil says: Still trying to get my bearings, but I think I got an idea!
Uther breaks free of Maraad’s grapple, and then starts to shove him along the ground. Maraad tries to struggle, but he is able to shove Maraad out, and there is a whistle as the Vindicator refereeing the contest calls out.
Draenic Vindicator says [draenic]: Maraad loses! Uther the Menethil wins!
There is a lot of chanting.
Uther Menethil says: Quite fun! You said this is ji'dan?
Maraad says: Jed'hin!
He gets to his hooves and picks Uther up for a moment as he raises his hand in the air.
Maraad says: That was amazing!
Remnii cheers happily as Uther waves to the gathered crowd. There are some furbolgs that come over and start to claw at Uther’s hair affectionately. It’s all good fun.
However, Remnii notes a member of the rangari moving towards the group with purpose. He gets Maraad’s attention and whispers something into his ear. Maraad’s face grows serious.
Maraad says [draenic]: Alright! Wrap it up and take your meals!
He looks at Uther.
Maraad says: You and your friends should hear this.
He starts to head over to Remnii and Vel.
Maraad says: The perimeter scouts caught a kaldorei scout in the area. They’ve been brought into our custody, but they said they want to meet you and all your friends, but specifically asked for you, Remnii.
Remnii says: I… have more to share. Tyrande sent me a nightmare as well.
Uther Menethil says: A nightmare?
Joy drains from Remnii’s face.
Remnii says: It was a long night…
Uther Menethil says: Are you alright? Are you unharmed?
Remnii says: I am, but that dream would have harmed me had I not been vigilant. It hurt my heart, but we are stronger for it. I will tell you more when we speak together.
Maraad says: The scout said the individual is being gathered before the Exarchs. I suppose now is the time to take that meeting.
Remnii says: We have to start somewhere. Let us go find everyone.
The group gathers, and it seems Aramar had gone off on his own and informed the group he could just be informed later. He seems to be a bit angry.
As they enter the assigned chamber, they see a night elven woman. She is unmarked and discreet with dark clothing. Her cowl had been pulled back, but she has a small steel facemask. Her hair is dark green and pulled into a thick braid. She has a scarf over the lower half of her face, and she whispers to Remnii as she enters.
Night Elf Scout says: I’m glad you’re here, and that you’re safe. I think there’s a great deal I need to talk to you about. I believe I have some mutual concerns I would like to air with you, and know not all amongst the kaldorei condemn your people. The Unseen Path is with you.
Remnii says: While I have questions, I believe they’ll have answers.
Night Elf Scout says: I’ll answer them as best as I can.
Remnii gives her a nod.
Night Elf Scout says: I believe Elune is with you, Remnii.
