Appearing Characters: Acteon, Aramar Thorne, Astalor Bloodsworn, Daelin Proudmoore, Divinius, Duan Phen, Edirah, Elissa Cross, Fateema, Galia, Grazle, Illidan Stormrage, Ishanah, Joe Barker, Kor'vas Bloodthorn, Makasa Flintwill, Maraad, Mary Brown, Medivh, Menelaous, Minai Foreststar, Nobundo, O'ros, Remnii, Riff, Rommath Pyrewing, Samaara, Seria, Tol'vas Moonshadow, Uther Menethil, Valaatu, Velameestra Windrunner, Velen
July 29th
Having been intrigued by the news of another worgen, Tol’vas goes to investigate the human camps once more. He sees Makasa--who had returned from her walk--talking to a few of the others while she works on preparing some of her poultices. Tol’vas approaches the group, and Makasa glances at him.
Makasa Flintwill says: Tol’vas.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You didn’t tell me.
Makasa Flintwill says: I didn’t tell you what, exactly?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You didn’t tell me why you carry silver.
Makasa grins.
Makasa Flintwill says: I did not tell you a lot of things, Tol’vas. I didn’t know you wanted to know so many things about me in the first place.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: More that… no, actually, this makes a lot of sense.
Makasa takes a swig from her flask.
Makasa Flintwill says: I assume this has something to do with Joe?
She points with the flask at a human sitting nearby, seemingly just glaring. Tol’vas nods.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah, one of the furbolg told me they could smell it.
Makasa Flintwill says: Heh! I told ya you needed to take more showers, Joe!
Silent Joe chuffs.
Makasa Flintwill says: I did tell you there was something I wanted to introduce you to. I didn’t keep this a secret, it just never came up.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Ah… that’s fair, and I suppose it’s not exactly your secret to tell, either.
Makasa shrugs.
Makasa Flintwill says: No it ain’t, though all of us know about it.
Silent Joe looks at Tol’vas.
Silent Joe says: You’re one too?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah, I am.
Joe chuffs and looks back to his drink.
Duan Phen says: He might get a little hairy every now and then, but it really ain’t so bad. Besides, having him throw a bit of a temper tantrum once a month ain’t so bad, especially when you see Mary.
Mary blushes.
Mary Brown says: Shut up, you! I ain’t that bad!
Tol’vas is more focused on Joe.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You can’t control it, then?
Silent Joe says: Don’t need to.
Tol’vas blinks.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I assume because you take precautions, or…?
Silent Joe nods.
Silent Joe says: Drink. Rope.
Joe shrugs.
Silent Joe says: Worked so far.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Well, one of my goals is to make sure we can have enough control that we don’t hurt people or need to be tied up.
Joe looks Tol’vas up and down and scratches at his shaggy hair.
Silent Joe says: Great.
He shrugs and takes another drink.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Do you mind if I ask how it happened? If you remember?
Silent Joe nods.
Silent Joe says: Got bit.
Makasa laughs.
Makasa Flintwill says: He joined the Wavestrider a bit before I did. He’s from Gilneas, or at least that’s what he tells us.
Joe nods.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: The one with a bit of a problem, right? I’m sorry, I’m trying to keep the kingdoms straight.
Makasa shrugs.
Makasa Flintwill says: I’ve never been myself. They put up the wall back when I was pretty young. I grew up far south of there. They closed the ports as well, so my mother’s ship never docked there. If the crumbs I’ve gotten from Joe are enough to make assumptions, I’d say they got a bit of a flea problem, aye.
Joe nods.
Silent Joe says: Shit 20 years ago. More shit now probably.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah… I can imagine how fast that problem would get out of control.
Silent Joe says: Not my problem.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: No, I suppose it wouldn’t be. Well… if you’re ever interested in learning more about it, or getting control over it, I’ll be here and there.
Joe looks Tol’vas up and down again.
Silent Joe says: Uh huh.
Joe seems to be rather disinterested, but it’s hard to say if it’s because of Tol’vas or because of something else. Tol’vas opts to shift into his worgen form, and both Duan and Mary produce silver daggers. Makasa, however, continues drinking, lounging back with her boots on the table.
Makasa Flintwill says: Easy, ladies, he isn’t lying. He’s in control. Some druid nature mojo. I don’t know much about it.
Silent Joe stops mid-drink to watch the transformation, and the two other women slowly lower their weapons.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Like I said. If it’s something you’re interested in learning, I can help. It’s the bare minimum I can do.
Silent Joe lowers his drink, his eyes wide as he notices Tol’vas talk in his worgen form. Mary and Duan exchange glances. Tol’vas opts to turn away, and Silent Joe watches him leave. A few other marines watch Tol’vas stride by, and one of them spit-takes while another very drunk marine comments he’s just another furbolg. The other marine argues he’s a worgen, but the drunk one waves the concern away.
Remnii goes to find Aramar, who is sketching some of the naaru and the scenery of the furbolg hold. He doesn’t seem to notice Remnii as she starts to approach, and she notes there are also sketches of Makasa and several other faces of the Wavestrider crew doodled in his sketchbook.
Remnii says: Aramar?
Aramar looks up and around.
Aramar Thorne says: Oh, hey Remnii. I didn’t hear you.
Remnii says: Surprising, I’m not stealthy. I came to check on you.
Aramar Thorne says: Yeah, I’m alright.
Remnii says: Would you mind if I take a seat for a moment?
Aramar Thorne says: Yeah, sure.
He scoots over and Remnii takes a seat.
Remnii says: There is a lot to take in in this world, is there not?
Aramar Thorne says: Yeah, and I was born here.
Remnii chuckles softly.
Aramar Thorne says: I’m trying to figure out how to do this.
Remnii cocks her head.
Remnii says: Would you mind elaborating?
Aramar Thorne says: How to understand any of this that I’ve been dealing with. The business with the Wavestrider, with Makasa, with the Voice of Light and this damn blade. My old man… the Hidden. This Malus guy. Silverlaine.
Remnii nods.
Aramar Thorne says: I just wonder if I should have stayed home after all.
Remnii says: I believe you made the correct choice in coming, Aramar. I have someone I would like you to meet more formally who may be able to help you with some of those things, but that is for after this.
Remnii considers.
Remnii says: Family is a complex thing. It seems if you turn over stones you will find more and more things you may not have wished to see. About yourself, or otherwise. You are not alone in attempting to process all that has happened, and all that will happen. Taking time to reflect as you are is a good thing.
Aramar Thorne says: I guess… it’s just… I guess I’ve just been thinking about the fact I basically took so much from Makasa when my old man grounded her and had her looking after me, she basically lost control over her life. She’s just been stuck here trying to keep me out of trouble. It’s no wonder she hates me at this point. But… But, you’re talking about your father, right?
Remnii says: I am, but I’m not done talking about this yet. There is much you need to think about that no one can work through besides you and Makasa, but if she hated you, she would have not stayed by your side. Your father, however controversial he may be, entrusted you to her, and she went likely because she knew that trust. A decade is not a short amount of time for you, from what I understand. Since you were what, 12 or 13, she has been there for you like a sister? She could have left. But she did not. Sometimes love can manifest itself in ways that can be painful from time to time. It can hurt in ways one cannot understand until it has happened. Hindsight is clear, like that. I’ve had a small number of friends that have made great sacrifices for me without even asking me, and they have suffered, and they are no longer here. I only say this to relate, but in all our differences and similarities, this can be worked through. I believe you will be able to find balance with each other again, if you are honest, and if you apologize. She shoved a lot of blame on you as well. Both of you need to speak.
Aramar nods.
Aramar Thorne says: I know.
Remnii says: I can preach in more than one way. But… I believe I have said enough for now, and your heart knows the right thing to do. You would not be so pensive otherwise. Would you like something else to focus on, for a moment?
Aramar Thorne says: Might not be a bad idea.
Remnii says: In that case, would you come with me to meet my vakas?
Aramar nods, and Remnii smiles. They get to their feet.
Aramar Thorne says: I guess I’ll have some time to figure things out with Makasa.
Remnii nods.
Remnii says: It may be good to settle for a moment, and think. When you are running all the time, it is sometimes hard to process how you’re feeling. Running is not a good recipe for a sound mind.
Remnii clasps Aramar’s hand, and together they head towards Velen’s antechamber. Aramar looks up at Divinius as they approach.
Divinius says: What are you looking at?
Aramar Thorne says: Ah, nothing. I like your, um, spear?
Divinius says: ...Right.
Divinius looks at Remnii and nods as the duo pass into the antechamber. Velen is kneeling, but he turns to meet the two.
Velen says: Remnii. And Aramar if my memory serves.
Aramar Thorne says: Yeah, that’s right, master prophet sir.
Aramar bows and Velen smiles.
Remnii says: Vakas, hello!
She smiles broadly.
Remnii says: Aramar will be staying behind to watch Riff and spend time with the crew of the Wavestrider. Thus, since we may be gone for some days, I thought it may be good to have you both acquainted. I have told him everything you have told me, and everything we know of the compass and your father, Aramar.
Velen says: It is true. Remnii has told me of the Voice of Light you have heard, and the naaru your father seemed to venerate, and the blade you now wield.
Aramar chuckles.
Aramar Thorne says: That’s a little embarrassing. I hope she mostly had good things to say…
Velen says: Of course, my young friend.
Velen steps forward.
Velen says: If you would indulge my curiosity, young Aramar. May I see the blade? The one you carry with you?
Aramar nods.
Aramar Thorne says: Sure.
Carefully, he draws the hilt of the diamond blade and conjures the crystalline sword. Velen examines it closely.
Velen says: Fascinating. May I?
He holds a hand out, and Aramar nods and hands the blade over to Velen, who looks at it closer. Velen smiles.
Velen says: This is a gift most rare. You hold not only a radiant blade gifted from the naaru, but something much greater. This is a piece--small, albeit--but a piece nonetheless of one of the Prime Naaru. The Mother of Light, Xe’ra, the same as the figurehead that Remnii described to me.
Aramar Thorne says: What does that mean, exactly?
Velen says: It means that the voice you hear, the one that sings to you in your dreams and guides you, it is more than likely the Mother of Light herself singing to you through this blade, and through your connection. This was your father’s?
Aramar nods.
Velen says: It is possible that he too heard the Light Mother’s voice and saw her light. I believe the compass, the one that Remnii told me of, is a gift similar to this.
Aramar furrows his brow.
Aramar Thorne says: I don’t understand. Why me? And why my old man? Why didn’t he ever tell anyone? This seems like it’s something important to share…
Velen shakes his head.
Velen says: I cannot tell you all these answers, Aramar. The will of the naaru is for us to determine, and for them to show. We can only divine their meaning, and though I have done so for many years… I can only provide you guidance, and perhaps one day you will find the answers you seek. But none can know your father but he.
Aramar Thorne says: And a lot of good that’ll do. Especially if he got himself killed. Or worse.
Velen puts a hand on Aramar’s shoulder.
Velen says: You have great turmoil in your heart, and that turmoil is not without reason or cause, but until you can understand that turmoil, the cloud of darkness it will create will blind your eyes from seeing any truth.
Aramar nods, somewhat in awe of the presence of Velen.
Aramar Thorne says: What do I do then?
Velen says: You must confront your fears, your darkness, and your light. Only by understanding yourself will you hope to understand the hearts of others, even those you are close to. And only by that may you unlock the deepest potentials of your soul.
The diamond blade starts to shift and elongates into a staff. Then it becomes a scepter, radiant and crystalline. Then it returns to the bladeless hilt that he hands back to Aramar.
Velen says: Come. Sit with me. And tell me everything that lies in your heart. Perhaps we may find a way through the cloud together.
Aramar nods almost automatically.
Aramar Thorne says: Okay.
He looks up at O’ros as he and Velen sit down before the naaru. Remnii smiles at the two of them and bows out as Aramar and Velen begin to talk. Aramar opens his sketchbook and flips it to the page with the Wavestrider and sets it on the ground between them.
Vel and Uther had spent some time in one of the rooms of requirement in Vel’s conjured manor--enough that Uther felt he was starting to get the hang of utilizing subtle spells. It was strange to cast with nothing but his own force of will, but it also felt good at the same time.
As they emerge from the portal, they spot Medivh, whose mouth is half full of food from the various banquet tables.
Medivh says: Ah! Meleneedra!
He holds up a finger, chews for a second, and then swallows before he continues.
Medivh says: Velameestra, there you are! I was wondering where you ran off to.
Velameestra Windrunner says: With the draenei mages for most of the day.
Medivh says: Ah. I’d wondered as such, but I popped over there and didn’t see you. I must have just missed you.
Velameestra Windrunner says: What can I do for you?
Medivh says: Nothing! I just wanted to compliment you on this fascinating mansion that you seem to have made here. It’s quite wonderful. All the amenities you’ve created for all these people is quite ingenious. I’ve been playing host a bit here. It’s been a bit since I’ve been around so many people, so it’s been… well, lets just say I may need to throw a party or two once we get back to Karazhan. I think we could all use a bit of levity. So I wanted to thank you for giving me this small piece of luxury to have a bit of fun with.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Of course. There’s actually more. I did make you a room. Actually, have you seen Illidan and Kor’vas for that matter?
Medivh says: Yes, I think-- hm. Illidan, where are you? I thought I saw you around here somewhere.
Kor’vas pops out with her own mouthful of food and waves.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Ee’s ober here!
Medivh says: Both of you come over here if you don’t mind! Velameestra has something to show us.
Illidan shrugs and gets to his feet to head over as Kor’vas bounces after him.
Medivh says: You said there was more to see?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. There are bedrooms and a living quarter on the third floor. Above the garden.
Medivh says: You… you made rooms for us? For me?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes.
Medivh says: Velameestra, you didn’t have to do that. You understand the, um…
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, it’s been accounted for. It shouldn’t be a problem.
Medivh says: Um. Lead the way, then! I don’t wish to be troublesome… but you’ve piqued my curiosity at the very least.
Illidan Stormrage says: It is quite impressive spellwork. I’m rather curious to see what a room you designed based on such a short time of knowing each other would look like.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I… did my best guesswork.
Vel leads them through the portal and they exit onto the third floor. Kor’vas is basically vibrating as she steps out of the magical doorway.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Man, this stuff is so cool! I can’t believe everyone is so against this arcane magic stuff. I mean, look at this!
She jumps back through the portal, and then appears again.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: It’s so cool!
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s much better than stairs. And takes up far less room. But…
Vel takes a few steps down the circular entry as Uther veers off to his own room--which Vel had allowed to remain alongside Elissa’s and Aramar’s, though many of the other rooms had been removed given the likelihood of their prior participants preferring to take on other sleeping arrangements.
She stops at two doors that are next to each other.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Illidan, Kor’vas, these ones are yours. They are… fairly similar, but I tried to accommodate what I could anticipate.
She opens the door to Kor’vas’s quarters, revealing a dimly lit room with a very open floor plan. The floors are smooth and made of stone with veins of color twisting through them. The bed is low to the ground, with small night tables next to it. The lattice-work of the ceiling has a shifting evening sky, and there is ivy snaking along the walls with small gardens of luminescent flowers that cast a gentle, pinkish-purple glow.
Most of the room seems to have been designed with a focus on practicality--and like all the other rooms, there was a fireplace against one wall, and a quarter-pool of luminescent water in one corner that was already shedding a faint steam across the floor closest to it. Some of the ivy seemed to have crept into the waters, coiling in small bushels and giving it the impression of a forest hot spring.
It’s a gentle blend of darker night elf aesthetics, and some more highborne architecture.
Kor’vas enters, her mouth agape as she runs her hand over the surfaces of several things within the room.
Kor'vas Moonshadow says: Wow…
She runs her hands through some of the glowing flowers.
Kor'vas Moonshadow says: This is amazing… what colors are these?
She looks back at Vel.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Purple-pink. Close to magenta.
For a brief moment, the motes of light behind her blindfold become hard to see, and she reaches up to remove the blindfold. The eyes then start to glow brighter green as she casts detect magic. She spins around the room, her arms out and a wide smile on her face.
Kor'vas Moonshadow says: It’s… it looks beautiful, Vel. Seriously, good work. Thanks. This is awesome. I know I’ll only be staying here for one night, but I can really get used to this.
Velameestra Windrunner says: If there are any changes that you want, I can accommodate them in future castings. I doubt this will be the only night you’ll be staying in it. Especially once we reconvene.
Kor’vas falls back onto the bed and bounces as she stretches her arms out.
Kor'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah, I’ll definitely think of stuff…
She sits up again.
Velameestra Windrunner says: The… ceiling has a command word. You can make it look however you want. It’s… a small thing, but people seem to enjoy it.
Vel relays the command word, and Kor’vas immediately tries it, shifting the ceiling into a depiction of a full moon in a sea of stars. Kor’vas smiles.
Kor'vas Moonshadow says: Wow…
She points upward.
Kor'vas Moonshadow says: I can actually see the moon. You know, I know it’s not the real thing…
She grows quiet and puts her hands behind her head, looking up at the depiction of the night sky.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll… leave you to it. If you haven’t already realized, just ask the mana wyrms if you need anything.
Kor'vas Moonshadow says: ...Thanks.
Her voice seemed to be somewhat choked up as Vel exits with the other two mages and then opens the door to Illidan’s room next door. As Vel had said, it had a lot of similarities to Kor’vas’s room with its open floor plan and twisting ivy, though it had a slightly broodier atmosphere.
Illidan Stormrage says: Impressive. I would be lying if I said I did not expect to see chains on the walls. But that’s an appreciated absence.
He smirks.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I figured you did not need those reminders of the Barrow Deeps.
Illidan chuffs.
Illidan Stormrage says: Much obliged. This is… not easy magic to command.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ve been enjoying experimenting with it.
Medivh smiles broadly.
Medivh says: I’d say you have quite a knack for it!
Vel smirks.
Velameestra Windrunner says: And I suppose I still need to show you yours.
Medivh says: I would be lying if I said I wasn’t excited to look.
Vel and Medivh leave Illidan to his room, and the door shuts and locks behind them as the demon hunter quickly takes the opportunity to have true privacy for himself--away from Kor’vas.
As Vel opens Medivh’s room and they step through the doorway, there is a strange sensation--as if they had walked through a portal like the ones that connected the various floors, but there was no portal to be seen.
Inside, the core aesthetics seem to be very similar to Dalaran’s, with rich blues and purples and bookshelves lining several of the walls. Against the far wall, there is a stand that is clearly meant to hold a staff and mantle. There is a very plush, large bed, and several sitting chairs with low side tables. It’s quite similar to the cozier studies of Violet Citadel.
Twinkling within the lattice-work of the ceiling is a galaxy and star-strewn night sky.
In the one corner there is a bathing pool filled with steaming water, just like the other rooms, and at the very center of the room is a pedestal with a round basin upon it. Within it roils a font of raw arcane energy, and with its wings partially extended over it stands a stone raven statue.
The majority of the ambient light in the room comes from vases of luminescent, blue flowers that cast a dim glow--identical to the one he had conjured when he had teleported them back into the Barrow Deeps.
Medivh has a wide smile as he takes everything in.
Medivh says: Look at this… you’ve outdone yourself, Miss Velameestra. I might need to redecorate my room back in Karazhan. This is beautiful!
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m pleased you like it. We’re… actually ample distance away from everyone else. It’s technically located beneath the first floor--same floor my own quarters are located, though on an opposite side. It’s just accessible from where the rest are.
Medivh says: So you used optical illusion and teleportation to redirect the flow of magic here…
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, that’s exactly what I did.
Medivh says: That… is… brilliant, Velameestra! Ah, look at this!
He starts to go around the room, investigating everything--starting with one of the vases.
Medivh says: This is just like the one I conjured with my teleport! That was intentional, wasn’t it? And look at this raven! It practically looks just like this!
He compares it to the raven on his staff, Atiesh. He then hurries over and runs his hands through the water, and then jumps over to something else--talking about every little detail for a second.
Medivh says: This is… this is wonderful, Velameestra. Truly. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. I’m not used to people… doing things like this? So… it means a great deal. Thank you. Genuinely.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You might as well be comfortable. You’ll be with us for a bit. And with a few more tries I should be able to get the transition seam… well. Make it less noticeable.
Medivh says: I mean, if that’s noticeable, then it’ll be perfect within a couple of days! But… goodness.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You’re of course welcome to the study and the workshop across the way as well. That’s completely open. Anything that’s not can’t be accessed by anyone but me to begin with.
Medivh says: That sounds like a challenge! ...I jest, I jest. I will absolutely take a look. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t poke around some corners, but I didn’t know anything about this.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, the portals do have a bit of a limitation of having to know where you want to go. But… I do have business elsewhere for the evening. So make yourself at home.
Medivh says: Of course. I will do just that. And… once again, thank you. I know I’ve thanked you a thousand times at this point, it must be getting annoying by now, but genuinely. I… I will think of some way to repay you, one way or another.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It’s not a problem. I’m glad to be of service. Good evening, Medivh.
Medivh says: Good evening!
Vel turns and heads out, making her way to the furbolg burial cave that she had managed to locate, and casting [Grave Stride] to get to the Wintercroft. It was still docked in Vengeance Landing, and it doesn’t take long before she falls into a deep sleep.
July 30th
Vel awakens the next morning after her rest on the Wintercroft, she notes the sun in the Northrend sky has gotten lower in the sky as it was only a few months until the frigid land entered its night cycle. Many of the overpasses that protected the undead walking beneath them from the sun’s rays had been adjusted to the new angle accordingly, though the day itself was rather overcast.
She also notes three figures flying in the sky as she walks through Vengeance Landing. They are proto-drakes, but these ones have blue or violet scales instead of red. As she continues to the arcane sanctum, there is something else curious: three vrykul women. One appears to be normal, but the two others have very pale flesh--almost blue--and their bodies seem to be similar to the frost wights like Malande. Their eyes have an otherworldly bluish mist that wafts from them, and they seem to be speaking in their own language and laughing. There is a massive, white-furred bear that is in a pen nearby that is being fed a large slab of meat.
Vel continues into the arcane sanctum and she heads toward the study that Astalor had established as an office. Astalor is speaking inside.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, I expected that about as little as you did. Any idea why she’s taken such an interest in the sea raiders...? No, I’m not sure either…
He seems to be having a one-sided conversation. Vel knocks.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Just one moment. I’m having an important conversation--um, nevermind.
The door opens, and Vel sees the Grand Magister standing before her. He looks down at her and his voice enters Vel’s mind.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I was just leaving, actually.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Grand Magister, good to see you.
She had opted to reply telepathically
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Miss Windrunner. What brings you back to Vengeance Landing?
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Dropping off research. I had a moment, so I figured I would use it.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I see. I was actually just leaving once more. I’m going to be joining Ranger-Captain Windrunner on her expedition in the Dragonblight. I was making the last of my own preparations.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Ah. I see. Is there any news from the Dragonblight in particular, if you don’t mind me asking? I’ve been trying to stay apprised.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Nothing yet. She and the few who are traveling with her have only recently truly arrived.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Understood.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Is there anything I should know before going? You seemed to know more than you let on last we spoke.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: The… Dragonblight is something of a sacred place for the dragonflights unanimously. It’s their mass graveyard.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I see. I understand why you may have been concerned about our discovery of such a place.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: It’s a temptation confronted with opportunity, especially given the magics many of us now practice.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I will do what I can to reach out if we make contact and to avoid any… challenges. With luck, our presence alone won’t be seen as an invasion of such a site. But if it is, I suppose it’s fortunate a magister will be present for rapid evacuation
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Indeed…
She hesitates for a moment.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: If there are any red of scale… dropping my name may not be the worst thing you could do. Despite the secrecy. It may at least give them pause.
Rommath nods.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Understood. I’ll be sure to do so.
Vel nods in return and steps aside so that Rommath can pass by her. However, after he passes, he stops for one more second.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Your guidance is most appreciated, Miss Windrunner. And… should anything else of interest occur while I am predisposed, I would want your take on it. It’s proven to be most useful to have an outsider’s opinion.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: Of course. And if you’ll be with my aunt, she has a sending stone linked to mine. I of course trust her with most anything I’ve told you, so if you need to reach me, she can do it. I check in with her frequently.
Rommath nods again.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Very well. Good luck, Miss Windrunner. Until we speak again.
Velameestra Windrunner says [telepathically]: And you.
Rommath continues onward, and Vel notes he has a satchel over one arm as well as his staff, and she also detects the shady traces of the [Protective Penumbra] spell that she had helped to develop.
Astalor perks up upon seeing that the Grand Magister had now fully taken his leave, as he had been working on shuffling through a few of his papers while the two vampyrs engaged in their telepathic conversation. He smiles broadly at her.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Velameestra! I had no idea you’d be coming up so soon. It’s good to see you. I assume you’ll likely only be here for a moment, yes?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, it was just for the night. I had an opportunity.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Well that’s a shame, I suppose. But at the very least you’ll be here long enough for me to give you your little surprise! But still, it’s always a pleasure to see you when you’re here. Would you like any coffee? I believe individuals of your disposition can still imbibe such things, as you said? I prepared some previously for my meeting with the Grand Magister and he did not finish all of it. I’m more of a tea person myself.
He gestures over to a still-steaming pot, and Vel promptly prepares herself a cup.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: It’s been quite an interesting morning, but not a lot has changed since we last spoke. Though the commander has returned rather abruptly this morning, as you may have seen.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I did not see her herself, though I did see the other new arrivals.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, it seems during her journeys into the Storm Peaks she encountered a different tribe of vrykul and convinced a number of them to return with her. The ones you undoubtedly saw are of an unliving variety, from appearances.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, I did make note of that.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: They arrived rather abruptly with Magister Dreven. Apparently she’s going to try and capture some of the kvaldir raiders. I’m not sure why, perhaps to get information. So apparently that’s what we’re going to be directing some of our resources towards. Which is honestly a great plan because they’ve been causing us no small amount of trouble.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Hopefully something comes of it.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, we simply need to to not kill them… which is difficult to do. The brutes are rather relentless in their assaults.
The entire time he had been speaking, it seemed Astalor had been working on something. But as Vel continues to sip at her coffee, the magister then turns around--leaving his hands behind his back. There’s a shitty grin on his face.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Alright, Velameestra, I’ve prepared a small gift for everything you’ve done for us so far and, of course, with the assumption that you’re already doing more for us at present. So, I opted to organize a little something for you as a personal thanks. I’ve been busy lately between my primary projects… the teleportation circle, of course, and something else I’ve been trying to develop to improve the quality of life around Vengeance Landing… but I found some time to put something else together.
He withdraws a beautiful velvet square from behind his back. It’s a deep purple, very similar in color to the coat Vel always wore, with a similar gold-brass trimming around the edge. It looks incredibly soft.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Here you are, Velameestra.
He holds the square out to her, and Vel blinks, setting her mug of coffee aside so she could take the offered square and examine it with both hands. She partially unfolds it, then looks at Astalor’s big smile, and then back at the cloth.
Then it clicks. It’s a portable hole.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You… got me a portable hole?
Her expression is somewhat taken aback as the full realization sets in.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I was so charmed by your suggestion during your first visit here that I thought it might be wise to do a field test of your practical theory to see how feasible it was. So I pulled some strings as I thought it would be a nice gift for you to perhaps be the first one to try out that little theory of yours.
Vel smirks.
Velameestra Windrunner says: And so I have no excuse for not sleeping?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: That is another side effect of it! Should it work as effectively and efficiently as we hope it will, and as your hypothesis has deemed it. But it was your idea, after all, so it would be rather unfortunate if someone else was to test your theory before you would. I hope you like it. I chose colors that I believed would match your aesthetic. I hope that wasn’t presumptuous. I can alter the color, of course.
Velameestra Windrunner says: No, not at all. It’s perfect. Thank you, Astalor.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Of course. I’m simply glad that you like it and that you’ll get use out of it. Oh, and a small matter, but I put a payment inside as well, for all the spellwork you’ve done for us. Your notes have been invaluable for the Sin’dorei and those others who share the same existence you do. It’s a pittance. Only 2,500 gold unfortunately, but it was the most I could scrounge up with our current dilemma--
Velameestra Windrunner says: And that’s an ample amount for me to finish the rest of my current project. It’s appreciated.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I shouldn’t be surprised you’re already working on more. But I do hope it will come in handy.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It certainly will. Thank you again. Genuinely.
The arcanist had been fiddling with the portable hole ever since it was handed over to her, clearly enjoying the texture of it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Oh. Speaking of which...
She interrupts herself to start digging in her satchel.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I did have more research. The most recent spells I developed are included, which you may have some interest in. I’ve gotten the opportunity to test some of them, and they work quite well, if I do say so myself.
The stack of notes emerges, clasped in her hand.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Though… ah… there should probably be a bit of a... preamble to some of it. I had mentioned we were incarcerated for a bit and that was why my contact was sparse… that offered a few unique circumstances I opted to take advantage of. Some of that includes the consequences of not eating for about 18 days.
Astalor’s eyes widen.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I… see… are you alright? I can’t imagine that would be a pleasant experience…
Velameestra Windrunner says: I have since recovered. That’s not a concern at this point, and as I said the circumstances were… unique. They utilized a breed of imprisonment spell on the cells we were kept in. It staved off most of the physical effects, though the… psychological ones were a different matter. But there are some details in here that I thought it would be wise to warn you about before you happened upon them while reading.
Astalor has a hand over his chest, seemingly quite concerned.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I appreciate the forewarning, and I understand given the circumstances you took advantage of your situation, but please do take care of yourself, Velameestra Windrunner.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I don’t make it a habit of skipping meals normally. Not anymore, at least.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Good. I can scarce entertain the thought myself, and I have a relatively normal dietary restriction in comparison… but thank you for the warning. Once again, your research will undoubtedly be invaluable to our people.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I can only hope so.
She offers the stack of notes to Astalor, who takes them and quickly thumbs through the papers--wincing once.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Well… I know you need to get back to things. Thank you for the additional reading material. And… well, I don’t know when your next visit will be, but we may have something ready by then. Something rather helpful. Beyond the teleportation circle--a little secret I’ve been working on with the other magisters.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I always look forward to seeing what you come up with.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I do hope you’re here to see it. At the very least, you’ll be able to see its handiwork. If it works correctly. But regardless, good luck on your adventures, and do endeavor to come back in one piece. Fully fed and fully rested. I of course can’t mandate it because you aren’t a member of the magistrate… but I can request it as a concerned acquaintance. Just be safe, Miss Windrunner.
Vel nods, nodding at the cloth in her hand.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll get this set up as soon as I am able to.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: And I look forward to your impending extensive notes.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Have a good day, Astalor.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: And you.
Vel leaves the sanctum and heads back to the Wintercroft where she can easily grave stride back to Timbermaw Hold.
Vel emerges back into the furbolg burial cavern and quickly splits back into the hold and rejoins with the rest of her companions. Illidan, Kor’vas, and Samaara are also getting themselves prepared to leave.
Aramar and Makasa don’t seem to be avoiding each other anymore, but things are still a bit awkward. Daelin is also present along with a few of his marines, and there is a small crew of mages alongside Edirah getting ready to facilitate the transportation to Azuremyst Isle. Velen, Ishanah, and Nobundo are also there, as is Grazle--the leader of the Timbermaw Hold.
Goodbyes start to be exchanged, and Edirah starts to cast a spell--draenic ruins appearing around her.
Edirah says [sending]: Valaatu, we will be scrying on you soon. Make sure you get near a tree. That will be the way they are traveling.
A moment later, Edirah chuckles.
Edirah says [sending]: Yes, a tree. Any large one will do.
Remnii hugs all the draenei, and Ishanah looks to the rest.
Ishanah says: You’ll want to seek out Councilman Menelaous at the Watch. He’s in charge of governing the watch and ensuring the safety of those dwelling there. I don’t know if the High Vindicator Boros or Exarch Naielle will be present, so he can fill in any gaps there are. I wish all of you the best of luck, and please be safe on your journey. May the naaru watch over you, and the Light protect.
Velen says: We shall keep your companions safe, and ensure this place remains hidden for you to return to once you have met with those across the way.
Nobundo says: The crash of the Exodar threw the islands into disarray. You should be prepared to greet a strange and unkind environment. The world has adapted as best it can, but if you have been there before…
He looks at Tol’vas.
Nobundo says: It may not be what you remember.
Daelin approaches Uther and gives him a firm handshake.
Daelin Proudmoore says: It was good to catch up with you. We’ll share a drink on your return.
Uther Menethil says: I’d like that.
Daelin Proudmoore says: Stay safe out there, and don’t take any risks, ya here? At least none that I wouldn’t take myself.
Uther Menethil says: Of course. I’ll see you in a few days.
Daelin Proudmoore says: Aye.
Daelin glances over at Seria, but he doesn’t say anything to her.
Daelin Proudmoore says: That goes for all of you.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I pride myself on risk management on multiple fronts.
Her eyes flicker over to Uther.
Samaara says: I’ll count on all of you to keep Remnii safe.
Maraad says: You will not have to worry about that, Samaara. We will ensure she is returned to you whole and healthy.
Samaara looks up at him.
Samaara says: Of course. I wasn’t particularly concerned, and with someone like you, I’m sure they will be more than safe.
Samaara smirks, and Maraad nods with a stern brow. Samaara then grins as she looks at Remnii.
Samaara says: Make sure he stays safe too.
Remnii says: I shall, fear not.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: It was good traveling with all of you, and I look forward to seeing what you find. I’ll make sure I have something comparably interesting.
Tol’vas opens his mouth.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: And don’t worry, I’ll make sure the big guy doesn’t get into much trouble.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yeah, I was just going to ask that.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: I would have given you a wink there.
She gives him a light jab on the arm. Illidan sighs, and Tol’vas doesn’t bother to look at him.
Illidan Stormrage says: I suppose I’ll do what I can to make sure you don’t get yourself killed.
Samaara says: And I’ll make sure you’re focusing your aggression on our enemies and not each other.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Yes ma’am!
She snaps to attention, and Illidan chuffs and folds his arms.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I have full confidence in your abilities, Samaara.
There is a glint that may have indicated some dry humor as her eyes flicker to Kor’vas and Illidan.
Grazle also steps forward and grants a blessing of safe passage over the group. Samaara hugs Remnii and they press foreheads, and then she, Kor’vas, and Illidan start to head off with a few draenei scouts in the direction of the Felwood.
Edirah says: Who will be issuing the transference? Who is teleporting?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’ll do it.
Edirah pulls a pearl-like orb out.
Edirah says: Use this. We will aid you. You will be scrying a woman named Valaatu. She should be present at a tree when you are prepared.
Tol’vas uses [Scrying] on the woman that Edirah described, and the spell goes through. He sees two draenei that seem to be wearing simple robes and attire, and the spell focuses on the female draenei of the pair. She has bluish grey skin and curling horns with silver-grey hair that is pulled back in a ponytail. She is nervously looking around a forest of blue grass and trees, speaking in a language Tol’vas doesn’t understand.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Well. It’s nice when things are easy. We’re ready, right?
Makasa Flintwill says: We will do what we can to keep him out of trouble.
She puts a hand on Riff’s shoulder.
Aramar Thorne says: Don’t worry about us.
Riff runs forward and gives Seria a quick hug.
Riff says: Ya better come back safe, mada!
He smiles and then glances over to Vel, Uther, and Tol’vas and flashes the Death Adder symbol. Uther brandishes one back, and Vel also offers a small, far more subtle one. Tol’vas does the same, somewhere in the middle of Uther's and Vel’s.
Riff says: Be back soon, ya?
As Tol’vas channels energy through the ironwood tree, casting [Transport via Plants], a portal opens up beneath his fingertips. The group steps through one after the other, and they are greeted with beautiful, blue-colored grass. The air is abuzz with mist, magic, and pollen. They hear the sound of wings fluttering out of the trees as they emerge.
Next to Valaatu is an older draenei who is a bit hunched and quite thin with a bald head aside from his horns. He has two braided tendrils from his chin. They speak up in Darnassian, in quite an amount of awe.
Valaatu says [darnassian]: Greetings! You must be Remnii.
Remnii nods, speaking in tongues.
Remnii says [tognues]: Yes, it’s a pleasure to meet you.
Valaatu says [darnassian]: We are not far from the Azure Watch.
She gestures beyond the trees, and they can see greyish brick and violet tarps a few hundred feet away.
Valaatu says [darnassian]: We are safe here and there. Once you have gotten your bearings from that very impressive magic… Please, we can escort you back.
Maraad nods.
Maraad says [darnassian]: Thank you, it is much appreciated. Let us see what the consul has to tell us about the area.
The group heads toward the Azure Watch and they see a simple camp with a few dozen shelters that seem to be easy to both build and take down. There are several draenei around, both krokul and unbroken. There are craftsmen and workers as well as rangers that are likely Rangari like Samaara and, of course, priests and priestesses.
Valaatu points out notable areas and then gestures to one shelter.
Valaatu says [darnassian]: This is the command center for the Azure Watch. Consul Menelaous will be expecting you and he can tell you more.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: The tour is appreciated.
Valaatu says [darnassian]: Of course!
There seems to be a great deal of salvage in the area, like crystals and bits of metal. Some artificers seem to be working on bits and pieces in a makeshift forge.
The group seems to have drawn some attention--especially the night elf--but they quickly identify that Tol’vas doesn’t seem to be a threat. Elissa approaches Vel.
Elissa Cross says: Um… we still have to take care of that thing with Seria, right?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. I was going to bring that up before we got too far…
Elissa Cross says: How are we going to do that? Did we ever figure that out?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well, Uther does still have a blood debt to someone in the Shadowlands…
They are exchanging words in hushed voices.
Uther Menethil says: That is an avenue.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It may be the quickest option. The other is trying to bait it out and go in after it, but I’m hesitant to do that given the unpredictability of cross-planar time dilation. Without any modicum of control, weeks could pass here in the span of a few minutes over there. And unfortunately, destroying it out here would likely not permanently destroy it at all.
Elissa Cross says: Do you think that… what was her name, Galia?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Galia, yes.
Elissa Cross says: Do you think she’ll be able to fix it?
Velameestra Windrunner says: If she can’t fix it directly, perhaps she’ll have a means to ensure we won’t lose any time if we go in ourselves. Of course, Uther, that’s your call. It would just be my suggestion.
Uther furrows his brow as he looks down at his arm.
Uther Menethil says: I’m not seeing another way.
Vel switches back to Darnassian as she raises her voice to get Valaatu’s attention again.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Thank you, Valaatu. My companions and I need to have a few last minute discussions, and then we will head over to meet with the Consul.
Valaatu says [darnassian]: Wonderful, if there’s anything else I can help with, I’d be glad to. I’m not as talented as Edirah, but I have a few magic tricks if you need them.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: I will certainly keep that in mind.
Valaatu and the other draenei head off as Maraad--who had gotten distracted with speaking with one of the guards he recognized--returns to the group in full.
Maraad says: You might want to know about this.
He looks at Tol’vas specifically.
Maraad says: Apparently, the Rangari discovered a priestess. A night elf. The better part of a mile south of here. She is badly wounded and is currently unresponsive in the infirmary. They said that Menelaous would be able to inform us of the circumstances. I suppose, for now, we need to meet with Menelaous.
Remnii gives the group a knowing look.
Remnii says [draenic]: Maraad, why don’t you and I check on a few things in the Watch while the rest of my companions handle some of their business?
Maraad says [draenic]: Very well, Remnii.
The two draenei head off while the rest of the group head off into the woods into a discrete location.
Medivh says: I… don’t know exactly what you’re doing, but I’m very curious. Who are you contacting?
Velameestra Windrunner says: A woman named Galia. A denizen of the Shadowlands we met while in literal hell.
Medivh says: I see… and are you sure you can trust her?
Uther Menethil says: I trust that she recognizes my value.
Medivh laughs.
Medivh says: I suppose that will have to do.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It was a blood debt. Ideally that will hold.
Uther Menethil says: I’ve still got plenty of it.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Do you often go around offering your blood to random beings?
Velameestra Windrunner says: More than he should.
Uther Menethil says: If I had a gold piece for every time it happened, I’d have two gold pieces. Which isn’t a lot, but it is strange that’s happened twice.
Elissa snickers quietly, as she knows one of those people is Vel.
Medivh says: Well, I am certainly not on my A-game, though I am certainly feeling better--thank you, Velameestra, for your kind arrangements last evening. I’ll be on hand in case things go south.
Uther Menethil says: I see no reason to drag this out any further.
Uther presses the mark Galia had given him and thinks back to her. Perhaps without meaning to, he speaks her name. The small insignia begins to melt and bleed down his arm. It stings and drips onto the blue grass, and then evaporates and shimmers into wisps of red magic. The wisps start to form a creature as if she was being summoned by a planar ally spell.
A figure appears: Galia, the fallen fey-like creature they had encountered before. Tol’vas recognizes her as a sylvar, but unlike the pale blue fur and grey skin, this one has ref flesh and jet-black, severed horns. She smiles, but she isn’t wearing the leathery, witchy outfit she had worn before. She is instead wearing very fancy garb, her silken black hair in a beautiful braid. She has leather cuffs around her hooves and a long coat.
Galia says: Well well well… it’s been some time, Uther Menethil.
Uther Menethil says: Indeed it has. Did you miss me?
Galia grins.
Galia says: Of course. And the rest of you as well!
She notes familiar faces.
Galia says: Oh… and a few new faces as well.
She bows to Tol’vas and Medivh.
Galia says: A pleasure to make your acquaintance.
Uther Menethil says: Well, I have no interest in wasting your time. We have a problem you are uniquely positioned to help us deal with.
Galia says: Is that so?
Uther Menethil says: One of my companions finds herself hounded by someone from your side of the veil. An oracula.
Galia’s black eyes widen, and she smiles again.
Galia says: Oh… my my that is quite the predicament. Though it looks like all of you still have your eyes. That’s a positive. And which of you is the lucky one to get the attention of such an interesting creature?
Seria groans unenthusiastically. Galia looks Vel up and down.
Galia says: It wasn’t you, was it?
Uther Menethil says: No, it was not.
Galia’s eyes swivel over to Seria.
Galia says: Then it was you. Hm, yes, it was.
She moves closer to Seria and looks her over.
Galia says: Yes, you have been touched by death, haven’t you?
She looks back to Vel.
Galia says: Apologies for the assumption.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Not a problem. More than one can be touched by death.
Galia says: Indeed!
She looks back at Seria.
Galia says: I hope we learned a lesson. But, there are a few solutions here. My patron has a great deal of use for creatures like oracula. They prey upon the anima and the essence of mortal creatures such as yourselves. Well. Most of you.
Her eyes flicker to Vel.
Galia says: I can extract her and her curse, and I would owe you another debt. We can continue this arrangement, if you would allow me to remove the oracula from you instead of taking its power for yourselves. I can provide ingress into its realm if you prefer, where you can dispatch it.
She spins around on her hoof.
Galia says: So. What do you all think?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I have a question.
Galia says: Of course. How many I help you?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Are you a sylvar?
Galia laughs.
Galia says: What a curious question. What would that mean to you?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Well, that I know even less than I already did, but that’s not an uncommon revelation.
Galia says: Perhaps was. But that was a long time ago. I’ve moved beyond the doldrums of grove tending. Though I imagine someone like you wouldn’t understand why someone would do so.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: A hunt for greater challenge?
Galia says: Simplicity, but not entirely inaccurate, I suppose.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Or a hunger to reach greater heights?
Galia says: Oh darling, if you’re going to ask questions, I will too. And I think you’re a bit underdressed for a woman of my tastes.
Elissa chuckles and her ears turn red. Galia looks back at Seria.
Galia says: So my dear, what do you think?
Seria sighs heavily.
Seria says: Just get rid of it.
Galia says: Excellent. This shouldn’t take long, and it shouldn’t hurt. We will need to lure it before we can capture it.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: What are you gaining out of this?
Galia says: The oracula itself. There are uses for such creatures amongst individuals like my patron. These creatures unbound can be exceptionally dangerous. Preying upon unfortunate individuals that stumble into the veil, but with a bit of guidance their unique abilities can be used for all manner of things. Now. This is not a difficult process.
She reaches into a pocket beneath the flaps of her coat, and she withdraws a small mirror.
Galia says: Look into this mirror. The creature will be unable to resist the temptation, and will try to prey upon your anima. Now if the rest of you could give some space… this creature can pull people into its realm, and it would be quite hard to get you out. About 30 or 40 feet?
The group backs up.
Galia says: If you’re ready darling, look into this mirror.
Seria groans and looks into the mirror. In the scintillating, red, misty magic, it’s like looking into a sauna of blood. The oracula emerges, its bleeding eyes staring right at Seria. It tries to throttle her with a shriek, and there is a sharp pain in Seria’s eyes. She immediately clamps her eyes shut.
As Seria winces back, blood starts to streak down her cheeks. However, Galia presses the side of the mirror and speaks in a language no one understands, but more blood red energy encapsulates the mirror and seals it.
She then smiles and tosses the mirror up and catches it.
Galia says: And that’s all there is to it.
She looks down at Seria, and as she opens her eyes she can’t see.
Galia says: A shame about that, but it’s been dealt with. You all can come over now. The oracula has been dealt with.
The group rushes over.
Elissa Cross says: Seria, are you okay!?
Seria pulls her hands away from her face and there are empty sockets there.
Uther Menethil says: How do we get them back?
Galia says: Unfortunately, that is beyond my capabilities. There is magic that can do so if you’re lucky, but that is not my modus operandi. But the oracula will trouble you no longer, but you should be thankful that’s all you lost.
Galia pockets the mirror.
Galia says: With that, I must be off. I’ll need to deliver this to my patron. She is not a patient woman.
Uther Menethil says: Before you leave, I should be able to contact you, yes?
Galia says: Indeed. Though I will not be able to do the same mechanism. Such things are taxing. But should you ever need my assistance, reach out to me. I wager many amongst you can do so. And you need only ask, and I will help you. But my sincerest apologies to you, my dear, I hope if you retrieve your sight, your eyes are just as beautiful as they were.
She strokes Seria’s hair, who bats her away.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Seria, stop and sit down.
Galia steps away and bows, then disappears as Tol’vas starts to cast [Regenerate]. Uther blesses him. Tol’vas draws energy from the air.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: It’s going to take me a moment.
Silvery threads emanate from his fingertips, and green mist settles over Seria, starting to knit her wounds together. It’s a strange sensation, but after a minute the glow in her eyes subsides. It’s blurry for a moment, but then she can see.
Seria’s eyes had returned.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...Well, that is resolved. Good job, Tol’vas.
Elissa Cross says: Yeah, it’s good you had that power. How do you feel, Seria?
Seria wipes the blood off her face.
Seria says: Fine….
Medivh slow claps.
Medivh says: That… was… absolutely fascinating! I’m glad it ended well so I can be excited for it!
Uther Menethil says: That’s probably not the strangest thing that will happen today.
Medivh says: No, I doubt it will be!
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I would like it to be!
Medivh says: Well, all of that aside, I suppose that’s that.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, we should likely reconvene with Remnii and we will at least not need to worry about reflections in crystals…
Elissa creeps over to Seria as the group starts to head back.
Elissa Cross says: Isn’t there something you want to tell everyone?
She smiles with a twinkle in her eye. And then she nudges her. Seria sighs.
Seria says: Ya all didn’t have to do that, but thank you.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I didn’t have to help you regrow your eyes? Can you do that on your own?
Seria says: Yes. I would have needed to prepare it. But yes.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Ah, a day without your eyes.
Uther shrugs.
Uther Menethil says: It’s what friends do.
Elissa is beaming with pride. Remnii and Maraad rejoin them as they re-enter Azure Watch.
Remnii says: Oh, you’re back. Did it go well?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, the situation is resolved.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: All eyes returned.
Vel face palms.
Remnii says: ...Oh dear.
Maraad looks somewhat confused.
Maraad says: I’m glad you are returned. Are you ready to meet with the Exarch?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Yes, I think it would be wise.
Maraad says: Excellent.
They head into the shelter that had been pointed out to them. There is parchment strewn around the desk, and the man inside stands--revealing him to be a tall and lanky man. He is fairly well dressed and has a pair of reading spectacles. He has a small crest and a small set of horns that peek out of his black hair.
Consul Menelaous says: Greetings! Wonderful, glad to see you are here.
He clasps Remnii’s hands.
Consul Menelaous says: Wonderful to meet you, Remnii, it’s so good to see you.
Remnii says: It’s wonderful to meet you too.
Consul Menelaous says: I am the consul Menelaous. I am in charge of logistics here, and I understand you are here for a number of things. I will happily share anything you need. Please, speak whatever languages you are most comfortable in.
He taps a small orb device in his ear.
Consul Menelaous says: This will make sure I understand.
Maraad says: Much appreciated, Consul. We have come for a number of things that my companions can inform you more of. Feel free to tell us any information about the surroundings.
Consul Menelaous says: Of course. This is the Azure Watch, one of many camps we have set up, but the first we have been able to keep for the last year. With luck, we can turn it into more of a foot hold. It is a central location for the crash sites of the Exodar. The Exodar itself…
The can see a simple map on the desk before him.
Consul Menelaous says: The bulk of it crashed here. We have spent what time we could salvaging it, but we have not been able to reliably stay close. The aggressions from the, um..
He clears his throat as he looks at Tol’vas.
Consul Menelaous says: The locals have prevented us from moving closer, but we have salvaged things as we can. It doesn’t look good. Though we have been unable to take a full scope of the mechanisms of the vessel, it will take significant repairs. What is worse… key functionalities have been sprawled out across the islands, which have caused changes to the ecology over the last decade. It seems this place is split into two islands. This island, called Azuremyst now it would appear, seems to be where most of the living arrangements have been located. The larger island to the north, the Bloodmyst Isle… I understand your people have red blood, unlike ours. It has seen worse mutations from the wreckage. I believe the cryocore and warp engines are located there, so it’s been more dangerous. Unfortunately it seems the demons that infest these forests--the satyrs--many of them have called that place their home. We have sighted them further south, but it has been hard to have a degree of control over this place. To fend off the kaldorei and the demons at once… plus the wildlife has taxed us to nearly our limit. But we are survivors, and we will not allow this setback to push us back. We are done running. Azure Watch, I hope, will be the first of many places that can be erected as a safe haven for our people. At least until we can find a home in the future. That is the status. We have salvage teams constantly trying to bring back materials to repair the Exodar or survive and rebuild as much as we can. Not to mention the defenders we have to protect us. Right now, Exarch Naielle and the High Vindicator are trying to set a beachhead in the Bloodmyst Isles. It holds dangerous and volatile parts, but also the heart of where the demons are operating from. We can only wonder what they might be getting into. It has been difficult, thus the two of them sought to oversee it personally. They want to create another outpost, and it is the most we can do to protect this one. Please, if there are any questions, I will do what I can to answer them.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Do you have any idea of the more centralized gatherings of the demons to the north? Any camp locations?
Consul Menelaous says: Unfortunately not. We have been unable to map it… but the satyrs seem to be operating from the deepest of the corrupted forests around the cryocore--a cryogenic chamber that was used to bring people into stasis for long travel. We believe the demons have somewhere in the forests in the immediate vicinity. But it is equally as likely they have been attracted to the vector coil and warp piston. If you are looking to find them, seeking there would be wise, but it will not be safe, and I recommend you protect yourselves. The ambient magics of the area are more dangerous, and prolonged exposure would be bad for your health. I am not a scientist, but it can burn your insides. The damage to those mechanisms will take a great deal of careful containment. Be swift and careful. But that is not to say these lower forests are safe.
Velameestra Windrunner says: And the initial contact with the night elves upon your arrival? Where was that located?
Consul Menelaous says: The first contact… we are located somewhere around here.
He points to a section of the map.
Consul Menelaous says: There is a series of peaks that separates us from the Exodar. Various pieces of it broke apart and crashed upon this island and the sea as well. While various pods crashed at various sections nearby, and the menagerie where many beasts of burden were kept, one of the largest sections of the Exodar--a shelter that was used to house individuals to live--crashed to this area in the east. A place called the Ammen Vale. Many draenei were separated there. The Rangari, Vindicators, and Protectors rendezvoused to try and find as many survivors as we could. It was around that area we made first contact. If I am correct, the first battles took place in an area called the Shadowridge. Most think the kaldorei landed there. If you are seeking information about those battles, the coast there would be a wise course of action. I… also have another lead. Kessels Crossing is a small settlement as well, to the north, where you will find the border between the two islands. But there is a high ranking member of the Rangari named Sarona, who is the captain of our supply and salvagers. She last went to the Exodar to try and recover some mechanisms. They left… some time ago. They should be back soon, but we expected them yesterday. While it is not uncommon for them to be delayed, it’s worrisome. If you could find them, perhaps you could discover why they were delayed, and she could maybe give you leads on demonic activity in the area.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: You also found an injured priestess?
Consul Menelaous says: Yes. I had near forgotten, but yes. The scouts were doing a routine patrol, and they encountered a woman who was injured. She seems to be a priestess of the kaldorei. She was badly wounded, and it seems her wounds were fel in origin. We have done what we could, but there is something more to it. We have had some of our best anchorites looking at her injuries, and we fear there’s not a lot to do but ease her suffering. She’s been in a fevered state since we recovered her. While it is possible we may be able to get an antidote, I am not getting my hopes up… I have been raised to pessimistic. But the anchorite in charge of her treatment believes there is hope. However, all I know is that her injuries were severe and traditional healing magics didn’t have any effect. You are welcome to ask Fateema more. She has been tending to her, and may be able to guide you further.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I am certainly going to do so.
Consul Menelaous says: In the meantime, I’m glad to be your liaison. If there is any information you need, I will be glad to aid you. It is busy here, but I am happy to help the daughter of the Prophet and a Vindicator. I understand you are trying to ease this conflict, and the sooner we can, we can turn our attention to the true enemy. Is there anything else I can help you with?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I think that is everything until we can figure out our next course of action. The intel is appreciated.
Consul Menelaous says: Of course. We are strangers here, and we wish to ease the damage we have done to this land. But do be careful if you venture out. The flora and fauna has changed, and some of the local creatures are less helpful than others. We’ve had positive contact with some of the furbolg on the mainland, but the ones here are less inclined to be kind, and the sea creatures that have raided the coasts have also made it difficult. So use caution.
He sits back down and the group exits the shelter. Tol’vas asks Vel and Remnii to join him as he heads over to talk to the priestess that was tending to the night elf. They see a draenei there, who is wearing a simple white chamois and simple trousers with a toolbelt that has various medical implements. She has a symbol of the Aldor around her neck, and brown hair that is tied back.
Nearby, on a stretcher-like bed, is a night elf with a simple wrappings and bandages. Many of the bandages are bloodied, and the priestess seems to be in the process of changing the bandages. There is a deep, black gash on the woman’s midsection--the edges of which glow with a fel green.
Fateema says [darnassian]: Greetings, travelers, you are the ones from the mainland if my eavesdropping skills are as good as they should be.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Correct.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: Was it the ears?
Fateema says [darnassian]: Something like that. I presume you are here to inquire about our guest here?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: Yeah. What can you tell us?
Fateema says [darnassian]: Well, the Rangari found her nearly dead near a pod wreck. She was alone and there was no sign of struggle beside the grievous injuries she has. These injuries are severe. I’m not giving up on her yet, but this will be a challenge.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: What can I do to help?
Fateema says [darnassian]: Can you wave away the corruption that has sunk into her flesh, or wake her from her fever dream? That’s only half joking. I don’t know what your people are capable of.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: I can enter her dream… but I don’t know about waking her.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Have any of the mages identified if any spells are at work, or anything of the sort?
Fateema says [darnassian]: No spells seem to be at work, but this wound cannot be closed. Not by magic or natural means. I’ve done what I could surgically, but stitches can only help if the body’s natural healing can take over. This gash seems to have been infected, and it’s spreading through the rest of her body. If it was an arm, I would amputate it, but… this is a bit too central.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: It’s possible, if whatever wounded her was cursed in some capacity, it would prevent the wound from healing… I’ve seen such things before. Can I take a look?
Fateema says [darnassian]: Please. I was reapplying some of the bandages. The wound seeps with a fel-pocked pus.
Fateema steps away from the priestess so that Vel can get a better look, and Vel moves forward to investigate the wound. She notes the four striations were likely made by some sort of claw. It is obvious the wound is clearly cursed--as if it is corrupting the flesh around it. Remove curse and greater restoration could potentially slow it at best, but would not remove it. Whatever was responsible for the wound would need to be found so an antidote could be synthesized, as the curse seemed to act like a poison.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: It was a creature of some sort. It is cursed, as I thought. The first step in developing an antidote would be to try and find the creature that did this to her. She was found near a pod cluster to the… south, was it?
Fateema says [darnassian]: Yes, it was to the south. We scouted the area and found nothing of interest. But if you seek to look at the area yourself, it may not be a bad plan.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: How recently was she brought in?
Fateema says [darnassian]: Just yesterday.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Just yesterday…
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: I might be able to pick that trail up.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: If that’s something we want to look into, setting out for this place as soon as possible would be for the best so this creature can’t get more of a head start.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: I haven’t actually been truly hunting in a while, so this should be fun.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Barring us finding anything on our own investigations, Tol’vas, you mentioned entering her dreams. It may not be a bad idea to try and reach her. Perhaps even in this state she can give some sort of lead. I can send you if the connection to the Emerald Dream may be a concern.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: I’m not sure if she’s dreaming… or worse if she’s having a nightmare.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: We can take precautions. At least the arcane would be divorced from the Dream in that case.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: We should go quickly. That trail will get cold fast.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Yes. I would also like to take some of her blood. I may be able to divine some things from it.
Vel looks at Fateema, who nods.
Fateema says [darnassian]: Of course.
She produces three samples of blood.
Fateema says [darnassian]: You can take these. We can extract more if we need.
Before they leave, they opt to do their preliminary divinations, and Fateems invites them to make themselves comfortable as they were not as busy in the medical shelter as they normally were.
Tol’vas tries to scry using the curse as an anchor point to locate the creature. A scene starts to emerge, and Tol’vas grows excited, but then realizes it was just a reflection of the shelter, and he sits back in frustration.
Meanwhile, Vel ritual casts [Analyze Blood] on one of the blood vials and determines the creature’s name is Minai Foreststar. Her creature type is still humanoid, but there is a strange discrepancy--there is some fiend somewhere in there. There is also a very clear, powerful fel poison coursing through her body.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Hm. Her name is Minai Foreststar… if that rings any bells, Tol’vas, I don’t know if it would or not.
Tol’vas shakes his head.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: She is still elven for the time being, but there is fel corruption actually infecting her blood. It’s throwing a discrepancy. There is a fel poison specifically… actually, Fateema, have you tried the feign death spell, by chance? To see if it may slow its progress?
Fateema says [darnassian]: That… is a very good idea. I will have to try it. You’re right, at the very least it may slow the poison.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: Yes, that may buy us a bit more time.
Fateema says [darnassian]: I see why the prophet’s daughter decided to trust you! You seem to know what you’re doing.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: I have some experience. But that will give us a starting point.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: Would one of the Rangari that found her be able to lead us back?
Fateema says [darnassian]: I’m certain they could. It’s about 15 or 20 miles south of here. They were ranging quite far, but they will be able to guide you.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: That’s not that far.
Velameestra Windrunner says [darnassian]: We may be able to cover that distance rather quickly--depending on what Seria has at her disposal.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: We could fly there.
Tol’vas nods in agreement.
Fateema says [darnassian]: If you can traverse that quickly, then I’m sure you’ll find it.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says [darnassian]: Then lets go get the others then.
The group reconvenes, and they meet up with the Rangari that had found Minai. He mentions that it would take about a day to get to the site and introduces himself as Acteon.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Seria, can you use the wind walk spell today?
Seria says: Yes.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It won’t take a day.
Acteon says: Oh, do you have a spell to ease the passage?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Have you ever been a cloud before?
Acteon says: I have not.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Well today is full of new experiences.
Seria casts the [Wind Walk] spell.
Medivh says: I’ve never gotten to try this before! This will be fun!
The group starts to shift into clouds much to the awe of the gathered draenei.
Maraad says [draenic]: Is… is this normal, Remnii!?
Remnii says [draenic]: Just relax, Maraad. It will be fine.
The group makes their way through the sky, flying after the rangari scout after he gets his bearings. Eventually, he starts to slow and drift down over the trees. They can see pieces of wreckage down below.
Acteon gets close to the ground and starts to shift back to his physical form.
Acteon says: That was pretty fun. I have to give it to you.
The others transform back, and Maraad takes a wide stance.
Maraad says: I don’t know… how I feel about that. But it wasn’t as bad as I thought. But I still don’t know how I feel.
Medivh says: Oh! That was fun! I’ve never flown that fast before!
Acteon takes some soil between his fingers and sniffs at it.
Acteon says: It should be over here somewhere. Ah. Here.
He gestures for the group to follow after him and he takes his bow out with an arrow knocked and not drawn. As they get closer, they see signs of a struggle, and dried blood on the ground, as well as on the tree nearby.
Then they see a field of white and they realize there are about a dozen moths with bodies the size of Uther’s forearm.
Acteon says: Ah… these things. They aren’t hostile, but they feed off of places like this. They are attracted to sites near the pod that crashed nearby. But they won’t attack. We just need to shoo them off.
Velameestra Windrunner says: And how do we go about that?
Acteon says: Loud noises. Big flashy lights. Waving your arms around sometimes.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Ah. Excellent. I can do all of the above.
Vel uses [Prestidigitation] to cause a big flash of arcane magic with a loud noise and the moths immediately take off with a flurry of white dust. She then starts to approach some of the blood splatter they had seen. Medivh follows after to help.
Medivh says: I’m hardly an expert at these things like you seem to be, but I know a thing or two about looking for clues.
Vel notes there are shreds of cloth nearby that seem to have been from the night elf, but she doesn’t see any sort of signs that would indicate a large creature. It was pretty well-covered, but then she spots one little thing. An indent. A scraping on a stone that looks like something burned the side of the rock. She sees something she recognizes, and she casts [Detect Magic].
Meanwhile, Tol’vas shifts into his wolf form and starts to sniff around. She doesn’t smell anything other than the blood of the woman, until he gets the very faint scent of the fel and brimstone. However, he’s surprised he doesn’t get any other scent at all.
Vel finishes her detect magic casting, and she gets faint conjuration magic coming from the place. There are clear hallmarks of teleportation magics.
Tol’vas trots over to Vel, still in his wolf form.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: There’s no scent here.
Velameestra Windrunner says: But there are traces of teleportation magic. They may be entering and then exiting too fast--
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: No, Velameestra, there’s no trace here at all. They’re covering it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...my brother used a spell called pass without trace that would cover tracks…
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: I’m familiar with it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Which if that’s the case, they cannot be tracked except via magical means...
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: This nose isn’t that magical.
Uther Menethil says: What if we set a trap?
Velameestra Windrunner says: What kind of trap?
Uther Menethil says: Well, based on what I’ve heard you two say, the only thing we can be certain of is that this thing--whatever it is--has malicious intent.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: But what’s the bait?
Uther Menethil says: It would be awfully rude of me to suggest such an idea without being willing to do it myself.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Except this thing seems to be engineering conflict between draenei and night elf. You don’t meet that quota.
Uther Menethil says: Well.
Uther looks over at Maraad.
Maraad says: I’m not exactly great at traps. I’m more the person that storms the castle before they can put traps up, but it is possible, I don’t know how we would do it, but if I can help, I will, obviously. Whoever did this is cunning. We’ll have to outsmart them, and have something valuable enough for them to want… also when are we planning on doing this? You were asking about where the first battle took place and you wanted to find this Ash’alah. What are we focusing on?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: My preference was to find this thing first so we can save that priestess.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Though if the feign death spell does work, that will buy us a bit more time.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: But we’re still only buying time, so anytime we’re not actively working on it… the less time she has.
Velameestra Windrunner says: No, but if this is all linked to the framing of the draenei, we may find more information about what this creature was if we can get to the bottom of the entire situation. This was a skillful assassination attempt. If they are fabricating ways to enter a situation, attack draenei and night elf both, and then leave without a trace that may be exactly how they’re managing to control this entire mess.
Uther Menethil says: Do we know of any other victims?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Perhaps Jarod?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well… in regards to Jarod, I believe his injuries were received from Divinius?
Maraad says: That is not surprising. Divinius is very… well, she earned her position as the leader of the Light’s Chosen.
Velameestra Windrunner says: And they magicked his mind. His role was to turn against them and further the confusion. This may be more of an isolated situation that they could use situationally.
Maraad says: Sounds to me like two blades to slay the same beast. I would not be surprised if they have many such schemes they are running.
Velameestra Windrunner says: The more ways they can obfuscate themselves, the less likely they’ll be found out. If one scheme gets undone, there will be another remaining that can be used as evidence for continued attacks and betrayals.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Then what’s the plan?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Likely our next step, if we can’t make progress here--which, if you claim there’s no scent, all that leaves is this burn mark, and that ultimately tells us very little--we move on and try to find out what happened at the first altercation. If Tyrande was the only survivor at the site of first contact, then there may be more clues there. They would be old, at this point, but they may have been sloppier back then.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: Would you be able to tell if they teleported back out or if it was only in?
Velameestra Windrunner says: It technically could have been both, but there’s no actual way to tell for sure. You can find signs that indicate teleportation magics were used, but there’s no way to identify specific directions beyond that. My best guess would be that they teleported out to a safe point. At the Wavestrider altercation, the arakkoa had a scroll of teleport they used to escape, did they not?
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: They pulled out a piece of paper then they were gone.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, that was a scroll then. So likely they have a safe point, or several, they teleport back to when they need to evacuate an area quickly. It’s possible they had a means to disguise their entrance--such as the pass without trace spell--made the attack, and then teleported out. That would leave no evidence of their passing. But I’m just theory-crafting at this point. My only other suggestion, if we *are* considering this… bait-and-switch ploy, is that I did develop a tracking spell some months ago. I can place it on a small item, and if we’re able to get them to take whatever it is I marked, we might be able to track the spell back to their hideout.
Tol'vas Moonshadow says: What do we have that they want?
Acteon raises a finger.
Acteon says: There is one thing that they may want.
He folds his hands behind his head.
Acteon says: You are, after all, traveling with the daughter of the Prophet. I’m just saying there are few things they may want to get their hands on more…
Everyone looks at Remnii.