[Alliance] Chapter Four: Session Thirty-Three
Appearing Characters: Astalor Bloodsworn, Elissa Cross, Jarod Shadowsong, Remnii, Tol'vas Moonshadow, Velameestra Windrunner, Velen
July 27th
In the evening as everyone is starting to settle down, Elissa approaches Vel during a quiet moment after she had spent some time communing with the sword her mother had given her.
Elissa Cross says: Hey… Vel?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes? What is it?
Elissa Cross says: Nothing, I just…
She glances in Uther’s direction.
Elissa Cross says: Um, I just wanted to check on you is all.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m doing as fine as I’m going to be until this is all resolved.
Elissa nods.
Elissa Cross says: I heard your fight with Uther.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes… I suppose everyone likely heard that.
Elissa winces a bit at the statement.
Elissa Cross says: Do you… want to talk about it? Would that help?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m… not sure. It’s been an ongoing… thing.
Elissa Cross says: You’re really worried about him…
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. And unfortunately he does not assuage that much when his first impulse is to throw his life away.
Elissa Cross says: I… don’t think he means to make you worry. I just think he doesn’t want people to get hurt. He‘s always the first one to put himself at risk because I think he’s afraid of losing anyone…
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, and I don’t want to lose him either.
Elissa Cross says: I don’t either… um… I… I don’t know what I can do for this, but I want to help, and I’ll try to think of something. Maybe I’ll try to talk to him. Sometimes… maybe he isn’t thinking.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Perhaps. I imagine my ranting winds up being white noise at this point.
Elissa Cross says: I don’t think that’s true. I mean, you’re one of his best friends. I think your words have a lot more power than you give them credit. Especially towards him. But it’s okay to be frustrated. I don’t think it’s wrong you guys are having a fight. We’re kind of under a lot of stress right now. But we’ll get through it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m… sure we will.
Elissa Cross says: And I’ll be here every step of the way, okay?
Vel offers a slight smile.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You always are.
Elissa smiles back.
Elissa Cross says: There was another thing.
Vel tilts her head to indicate she’s listening.
Elissa Cross says: I don’t know how rough it was during the time we were stuck in those cells… and I’m sorry I didn’t offer earlier, but if you need to eat or anything…
Vel tenses slightly, her eye contact lapsing as she drops her gaze toward the ground.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I… ah…
She hesitates.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I think I almost killed someone. The Watchers… when they were on the ground. When their blood was flowing… the imprisonment spell on the cells… it prevents starvation of a physical sense but not a… mental one. I… got it under control. My vial case was close enough at hand, but if it hadn’t been…
Elissa Cross says: I had no idea… but you didn’t though. You didn’t kill someone. And I think that counts for a lot, Vel.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...but I am still recovering, in some sense.
Elissa smiles softly and slowly puts a hand on Vel’s shoulder.
Elissa Cross says: I’ve been thinking about what you’re doing. For a while now. Ever since you told us, and I had a lot of time to think in the cell while talking to Seria. And honestly, every time I think about it, I can’t help but be really impressed. You’re… the sacrifice you’re giving for your people is really impressive. It’s really brave. So… I just want you to know I’m really proud to be your friend.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...Thank you.
Elissa Cross says: And on that note!
Elissa’s smile widens as she holds her arm out.
Elissa Cross says: Go on. I won’t take no for an answer.
Vel looks at Elissa’s offered wrist, the impulse to feed gnawing at the back of her mind.
Velameestra Windrunner says: If it… hurts too much, tell me.
Elissa Cross says: Of course!
Vel gently takes Elissa’s wrist and looks up at her one more time for affirmation before she opens her mouth and presses her extended fangs into the offered flesh. Elissa winces a bit, but she keeps a smile as much as she can. After a few moments, Vel pulls away, and Elissa stems the pain on her wrist with lay on hands.
Elissa Cross says: Do you feel better?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yeah. Yeah I do.
Elissa Cross says: I’m glad.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Thank you, Elissa.
Elissa Cross says: Don’t mention it! I mean it stings a little bit, but it hurts more to see you suffering, so I certainly don’t mind.
Vel smiles gratefully and pulls Elissa into a hug, who squeezes Vel tightly in return.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Make sure you rest well tonight. So the lingering effects go away.
Elissa Cross says: Will do.
Elissa squeezes one more time before pulling away.
Elissa Cross says: Tomorrow’s another day.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Tomorrow’s another day.
Elissa gives Vel one last smile before heading off to get ready for bed.
That night, as Remnii settles into sleep, she reaches out to Jarod via [Dream]. Her dreamscape materializes in the stained glass room with the plush pillows, and she has the Exodar Lifestaff with her. Jarod just appears in one of the piles of pillows.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Remnii. It’s good to see you. I don’t remember what dream I was having before this, but it involved a lot less pillows… I think?
Remnii offers a small smile of deference and greeting.
Remnii says: That I’m not surprised about. Apologies, I did not think to set us outside.
Jarod Shadowsong says: No problem. It’s very nice. Is this what your people’s temples look like?
Remnii says: Minus the pillows. The pillows are for me. I wanted to check up on how you were doing… I heard what happened and things have only gotten worse.
Jarod Shadowsong says: What did you hear, exactly?
Remnii gently goes through the entire story, into how they were broken out.
Remnii says: You were the only one who was not killed between draenei and night elves, and thus you are believed compromised by your people, Jarod.
Jarod places a hand on his temple and sighs.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Shit…
Remnii’s eyes then widen a bit.
Remnii says: And… I should let you know as well that Illidan, the Betrayer, is also loose by our hand.
Jarod blinks a few times.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Why the hell did you do that?
Remnii goes into the logic that Morra had presented, as well as a faction of people that had started to use his tactics that Remnii trusts. In addition, if they had not, someone else would.
Jarod Shadowsong says: I… don’t know if that was wise, but it’s too little too late, and regrettably, I don’t know how much I can help you. Even with your father’s help. So… I suppose there’s nothing to do for it. Just keep an eye on him. Calling him a loose canon would be an understatement.
Remnii says: We have already seen such things.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Last time I was this injured was by his hand.
Remnii says: I am woefully still not up to speed with everything regarding the War of the Ancients… I am sorry you have gotten caught up in all of this.
Jarod Shadowsong says: It was my idea to get caught up in this. I could have said no, but I agreed to help you. You don’t need to apologize.
Remnii says: It was by my suggestion you are here and temporarily estranged from your people.
Jarod Shadowsong says: It’s not the first time. Don’t worry too much. And, well, what they said wasn’t entirely false… if anything I should be apologizing to you. What you heard… when I left with the scouts, we pinpointed the general direction of the draenei, and then we were hit. A third party, not draenei. It was… a group of strangers. They were led by a man. A human. He wielded a blade that coursed with fel magic. When they fel upon us, they killed us--all of us. There was a number of them. Large corpulent creatures. Nothing I’ve ever seen. There was a pair of these strange bird men that wielded shadow magic, and a sand troll…
Recognition seems to cross Remnii’s face.
Remnii says: We have had a brief encounter with them… the bird men are from my former homeworld. They are very likely involved with the Legion.
Jarod Shadowsong says: I’m not surprised. I tried to fight back, but their leader did something to my mind. He turned me against the rest of them. He then forced me to lure your people to the site of the battle and ambush them as well. I… I’m sorry… I tried to fight it--
Remnii says: Don’t, please!
Remnii’s eyes are glassy, and she leans forward and scoops his hand in her’s. Her voice is affirming, and stern.
Remnii says: For one, I’m so sorry. What is done under mind control is never fair… and they will be brought to justice. I cannot ask anymore of you, even if you were healthy, Jarod. What you have already sacrificed to be here is astronomical. I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have made you go in the first place.
Jarod shakes his head.
Jarod Shadowsong says: If I hadn’t have gone, this still might have happened. And I wouldn’t be here to tell you what I saw. They had satyrs with them too. They helped to obfuscate the situation further. For what it’s worth, the misunderstanding was fixed pretty quickly. When I tried to strike at your father, one of his guards made sure I didn’t. I only lost my right arm, and fortunately your father was able to reattach it. The guard struck, and the spell lapsed momentarily, and your father saw… but a lot of your people died. I know I wasn’t in control, but I still feel responsible, so I’m going to keep helping, even if it’s in whatever ways I can for the time being.
Remnii gives Jarod’s hand a squeeze and lets it go.
Remnii says: I came here to talk you out of continued aid. We could take you home…
Jarod smirks.
Jarod Shadowsong says: A part of me might have considered it, but I don’t want to let Bard down. He’s grown pretty fond of you all, and he wouldn’t want to leave this job half done. Bard is fine, by the way. When we were first ambushed, I sent him off.
Remnii says: I’m glad to hear it.
Jarod now takes Remnii’s hands.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Listen, Remnii. I’m with your people now, and I can say without a shadow of a doubt that everything you’ve said is true. They didn’t need to risk themselves after everything I’ve done, unwilling or not, but they did. They could have just killed me. But your father is so committed to fixing this misunderstanding… that he risked himself to save me.
Remnii nods.
Remnii says: It sounds like him.
Jarod Shadowsong says: There’s no way I could go back after all this. We have to show the rest of my people what I’ve seen. My word may not mean much, but if I can help fix all of this, then I’m going to. If for no other reason than maybe… I think her name is Divinius? Maybe she’ll stop glaring at me.
Remnii says: She won’t.
Jarod looks back down at his right arm.
Jarod Shadowsong says: ...Yeah, unlikely.
Remnii says: It’s been well over a few centuries now, but I think I’ve only seen her smile a handful of times.
Jarod nods in understanding.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Your people are currently somewhere very safe. Do you remember when those Sentinels mentioned firbog territory? Another tribe, the Timbermaw, live on the border of Ashenvale and a corrupted petrified forest called the Felwood. Your people are living in the subterranean caverns where they make their stronghold. It’s called Timbermaw Hold. They’re safe. Evidently, the furbolg were being beset by demons, and your people helped them. The elves would think more than twice before invading their territory.
Remnii says: I… hope so. Uther and I are slated for execution if we are caught.
Jarod Shadowsong says: I guess you better ensure you don’t get caught.
Remnii says: I will ensure so.
Jarod Shadowsong says: By who’s orders?
Remnii says: Tyrande.
Jarod’s brow furrows and he shakes his head.
Remnii says: Uther surprised me. Myself was less surprising. We need to retrieve a few other friends that are being pursued. We are far from Ashenvale… arcane magics do wonders… but I digress. I’m not sure I will ever be able to repay you for everything you have done.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Remnii, friends don’t owe each other things. They help each other out.
Remnii says: I’m not sure I remember how to have low stakes friendships. But thank you nonetheless.
Jarod nods and smiles.
Jarod Shadowsong says: I would say I look forward to seeing you again, but I’m the person you should be the least excited about being reunited with when you get back here.
Remnii says: I… I am looking forward to seeing you though. Once I am unattuned from this staff, I will be crying fat ugly tears for quite some time. And you are no exception. I do not have to keep you any longer. Convalescence will be of great importance.
Jarod Shadowsong says: And hydration will probably be of importance to you if there will be that much crying. But thank you for understanding, and for not being upset at me for being unable to stop them.
Remnii looks down at her hands.
Remnii says: War is an ugly thing. I’ve handed friends to the Legion. Friends have handed themselves to the Legion in my stead. There’s been so much…
There is a faint sound of shattering before the windchimes in the background go silent.
Remnii says: Accountability is to be held, but there is a great and stark difference between what happened to you, and everything you have done to even meet with me. I don’t think I have much else to say, but I could never be mad at you.
Jarod smiles.
Jarod Shadowsong says: Well, if I wasn’t going to stick around before, I definitely will now. You and your father have the same air about you. You speak like you have to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders by yourself, but you have people there for you. I’m glad to be one of those people.
Remnii says: I… I’m not sure what to say.
Jarod Shadowsong says: There’s nothing to say. You shouldn’t be sticking around here any longer anyway. Go on. Your old man is probably waiting to see you.
Remnii says: He’s next on the list…
Jarod Shadowsong says: I had a feeling. He’ll be glad to see you’re safe, and you got that too.
He gestures to the staff.
Jarod Shadowsong says: That’s his I’m assuming.
Remnii says: It is. I would help you up…
Remnii gets to her hooves.
Remnii says: But I believe you should be resting.
Jarod slumps back into the pillows.
Jarod Shadowsong says: I’m comfortable where I’m at.
Remnii flicks her wrist and a plush blanket manifests and drapes neatly on top of Jarod. Jarod laughs and starts to fade away from the dreamscape as she ends the spell.
Remnii says: Sweet dreams, Jarod.
Jarod Shadowsong says: You too, Remnii.
Meanwhile, Tol’vas also attempts to dream--but his target is Goldrinn. He closes his eyes and fades into a lucid dreaming state, but when he opens his eyes, he finds himself in the same, rolling, forested glade-like field he was in during the dream he had in prison, but this time it’s more lucid.
He looks around, searching for the great wolf. He can hear a howl, and he also notices he is in a wolf form himself. There is a chillness in the air that he finds curious, and he can see the tall trees and cliffs glittering in the backdrop. There the sound of running water, and again, there’s a howl.
Tol’vas starts to move toward the howl, and he notices there are other spirit wolves that seem to be running in the direction of the howl. They do not disregard Tol’vas’s presence, but they also don’t acknowledge him. The running pack of wolves gets to a break in the trees, and there is a tall pillar of stone--upon it is a silhouette of a large wolf standing proud and howling on the high stone. Dozens of other wolf-like spirits join in the howl.
The silhouette is clearly Goldrinn, but as Tol’vas looks at him, he sees through him. His form seems to be translucent. As he looks at him closer, as well as the other wolves, it seems they have the same semi-translucent nature--as if they are also dreamers.
The specter of Goldrinn runs down the side of the stone pillar and wordlessly leaps over Tol’vas and the other wolves. Their heads all track him, and he takes off into the forest--running. All the other wolves follow with him, and Tol’vas also leaps after the pack. There’s something strangely familiar about the entire circumstance; he’s running in the exact formation that he did in his prior dream. The wolf on his right is the exact same one. He’s experiencing the same dream that he had stepped into during the full moon.
Tol’vas continues running with the pack. Throughout the course of the night, he finds himself drawn into this wild hunt. He watches as, on multiple occasions, the entire group will stop to drink at the foot of a massive waterfall, and Goldrinn will hunt a massive creature--another dream--that is covered in long brown hair with two spiraling tusks and a prehensile trunk. The creatures flee, but the larger of them tries to fight back, and Goldrinn and his pack converge.
Similar hunts occur throughout the time Tol’vas spends in the dream. At one point, the pack stops, and Goldrinn rests on a large stone overlooking the rest of his pack. Many of the others play and show off to each other, and they also engage with Tol’vas as well.
Tol’vas starts to approach Goldrinn, he starts to become more solid--almost as if his form is getting cloudy. He looks closer, and he sees something. It’s a light that’s emanating, one that’s more blue than green. The light almost seems to have a silent heartbeat.
But then the spell starts to come to an end, and as Tol’vas awakens, there’s a conflux of emotions--sadness, bittersweetness, calmness, but also certainty.
Vel enters into her dreamscape, and then Astalor appears in the snowy grove. When he arrives, the man appears wearing simpler robes, his hair rolled up and tied back as she had seemingly caught him in his nightgown.
He immediately looks around, noting the spectral mana wyrms, and then the prominent tree at the center of the dream, before his eyes then settle on Vel.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Oh… ah, Velameestra! It’s a pleasure to see you!
Velameestra Windrunner says: Apologies for the… unannounced intrusion. I normally try to inform first, but I did not expect to dream you tonight.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: It’s quite alright. You… don’t have more bad news for me, do you?
Vel opens her mouth to reply, but Astalor hastily interrupts.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: You know what, don’t even answer that.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Actually, I was just speaking with my aunt. I was indisposed for the better part of a month and she informed me I… missed a great deal.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I was wondering where you’d been. You hadn’t been giving any check ups as of recently, but it’s not my position to pry. But I’m glad you’re less indisposed than you were previously. Do I want to know? Or is this more of a personal matter?
Velameestra Windrunner says: We were imprisoned.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: What did you do to land yourself in jail, Velameestra?
Velameestra Windrunner says: We… met with the night elves. It was meant to be temporary incarceration as a show of good faith during peace dealings but it went… quite south.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I see. Of course it did. What’s not going south?
Astalor quickly collects himself.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Sorry. Venting. It’s not your responsibility to hear.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...Alleria mentioned that relationships with the vrykul king were a bit strained.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: That is one way to put it, yes. King Ymiron was wholly unpleasant after we went through a great deal of effort to resuscitate him and his ilk. We were lead to believe it would have been a much warmer reception by the other seers and the like when we went out of our way to accomplish such a frustratingly difficult task. That he was so obstinate is an unfortunate setback. One that I am not currently handling directly.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes, I heard Kael’thas was the lucky one dealing with that.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, and I can’t say that I envy him dealing with those brutes. Many of them are quite fine to speak with, but ever since Ymiron returned they seem more inclined to stick their noses up at us than they were previously. It’s quite irritating. But with any luck they can convince their curmudgeon of a king to show some gratitude and offer us assistance like they have previously. But yes, a lot has happened, as of recently.
Almost subconsciously, Vel flicks her fingers and one of the mana wyrms dotting the dreamscape unwinds itself from its tree and snakes onto Astalor’s shoulder.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Oh, hello, you sweet thing, how are you? I appreciate you doing this for me, Velameestra. These are quite precious, aren’t they?
Vel opts to not mention the mana wyrms are in the dreamscape, and Astalor is easily distracted by playing with the creature for a moment. However, as the spectral mana wyrm curls around his arm, he gesticulates and starts to speak again.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Things have certainly gotten more interesting. Another faction of vrykul have arrived and don’t seem to be quite as fond of us as their other warriors. These ones are also distinctively not among the living. The others refer to them as kvaldir--sea riding, mist walking reavers that come and go with thick mists. They’ve attacked Vengeance Landing a couple times and have tried to slay both us and the other vrykul who have set up shop in the area. They don’t seem to be fans of the other vrykul. I don’t know much about them, but I’ve had the misfortune of encountering their… mistweavers, I think they called themselves? They are strange, sunken creatures. Their flesh is sometimes bloated and covered in barnacles. Green and drowned, as if they had crawled from the depths of the ocean. We’ve had a couple interactions with them, but all of them have been negative. The other vrykul are keeping a tight lip on it. But they are definitely not amongst the living, that much is sure. Unfortunately we’ve been unable to do much in the way of research. Upon being slain, they disperse into seafoam and seaweed. So it’s not like we can perform an autopsy.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Hmph. You’d think the Dragonflayers would be more open with information if they’re attacking both them and their allies…
Astalor Bloodsworn says: They seem to believe them to be a curse. They mentioned a place. They referred to it as Helheim. I assume it has something to do with that. Likely some sort of legend of their underworld, and that these are some sort of vengeful spirits coming to claim them. They’ve been tight-lipped about their religion. I believe their gods have been rather absent. If intel is to be believed, anyway.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Well then.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Doubly so when Ymiron returned, they’ve become even more tight-lipped. And that is when the kvaldir raiders showed their faces. I don’t think they’re under his command… but I wouldn’t put it past him.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Or perhaps they wish to claim Ymiron.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: ...Now that would be something. If he does not know they’ve returned, perhaps someone should tell him. Perhaps then he’ll realize how invaluable allies might be. But regardless, we can’t afford to make enemies with Ymiron. He has far too much influence among the vrykul. So hopefully that can be… arranged. I can do little more than offer my insight and advice. Though their blood magic is interesting. I had the privilege of seeing it first hand, along with the ritual involved with awakening the vrykul who were hibernating. Quite fascinating. Quite complex. More than I gave them credit for.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Mm. Perhaps you and I will need to exchange notes again.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes! I believe it would be quite interesting for you to take a closer look, especially given your own research. It might prove quite useful. But that does remind me, Velameestra! One spot of good news--well two, actually! The process of transcribing the teleportation circle is nearing its completion. With any luck, it should be finished by the end of next month. Once you return at that time, we’ll have to make sure you memorize it. It will make your returns much easier. So that’s one spot of good news! The other is that I was able to get a bit of compensation together that I can grant you for all your services rendered. Not as much of a monetary compensation as I would like to give you--a couple thousand gold--but certainly enough to help fund your continued studies. I was also able to get a special something for you.
Astalor gets a dumb little grin on his face as he rubs his hands together.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: It’s a bit of a surprise. One I look forward to giving you next time you return. But no rush or anything like that!
Despite the statement, he looks clearly very excited to give Vel whatever he has planned.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I look forward to it.
Vel offers a small smirk.
Velameestra Windrunner says: At the very least, I will be returning before we return to the Eastern Kingdoms.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Of course! And… that reminds me. There are two other pieces of information. One regarding the Eastern Kingdoms, and one regarding the… matter you had inquired about previously. The one regarding Arlethal and the dig site. We’ve gotten some… concerning reports back. Some of the workers have apparently started to hear voices.
Velameestra Windrunner says: …voices?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes. The foremen don’t seem to have any knowledge of this, and we’re not certain what the cause of this is. It could be a trick of sorts by one of the local denizens, but at least one of the workers has… they seem to be… I can’t say for certain what’s happened, but they’re being brought back for a closer examination. If word is to be believed, they had a bit of a break of sorts. They spoke of a voice speaking to them. They referred frequently to a “He” and other nonsensical words and phrases. I’ll have a better report once I get a closer look. They should be arriving in the next few weeks and we can see if something can be done about this. It could be exhaustion or… some other supernatural… thing happening in this strange land.
Velameestra Windrunner says: And the foremen were not affected?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: They did not seem to be, no. Not yet, at least. Not all of the workers, either. But I’ll have a better view on the situation once they arrive. Once I do I’ll be sure to compile it so I can inform you.
Velameestra Windrunner says: It… would be appreciated. We’ve recently come upon an… unnervingly similar circumstance on Kalimdor. It’s hard to say if it’s exactly the same… but druids were hearing voices and going insane in the caverns we were investigating.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Oh my…
Velameestra Windrunner says: We were able to determine that it was due to the influence of the void.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: The realm of shadow magic? That’s concerning. I’ll have to add it to my growing list of concerns that are accumulating.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes… um… next time I’m up I’ll look at whatever you’re able to compile. We may be able to determine if it’s the same thing.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Of course, yes. I’ll share with you whatever I am able to ascertain. But there is one more thing... This one is in regards to the ongoing war on the Eastern Kingdoms. The far Eastweald has fallen in its entirety to the Horde. They’ve drawn battle lines at the mountain chain that border the eastern section that lead into the Tirisfal Glades. Thus they’ve been unable to take Hearthglen or Andorhal yet, but Stratholme has fallen. Most of the civilians had been evacuated, thankfully, but more than a couple fighting forces were slain. I’m led to believe the Grand Marshall of the Lordaeron army, a man named Luc Valonforth, was unfortunately among the deceased. Though I can’t say for certain who is leading their forces now. Um… other troubling rumors occurred. They’re saying the siege of Stratholme was partially successful because of… well… riots and infighting in the streets.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Why would there be riots? Did Legion forces manage to infiltrate?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I… don’t know. But I do know there was a group of elves within Stratholme. Ones who had undergone the same change that you and his Majesty and the Grand Magister had undergone amongst others. None of them were… none of the elves that were present survived. And there have been rumblings from within the church. I don’t know of what, unfortunately, but I fear something may have happened. Something that may have compromised the anonymity within which the vampyrs have been operating.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...someone may have found out…
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I fear that may have been the case. We are trying to learn more, but it is difficult to do so.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll… make some inquiries when we are back on the Eastern Kingdoms. Perhaps I can get news to you faster than the ocean can.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: That would be most appreciated. But we may have to be more… how do you say… direct in our diplomacy than we would have hoped. Depending on what exactly has happened across the sea.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...Wonderful.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: But! Worry not about that for now. This is neither your direct concern, nor is it what you should be focusing on at present. You are not responsible for the public relations of our people, Velameestra, I am simply keeping you apprised. I know you are traveling with the crown prince and he may wish to know of the status of his kingdom.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Yes. I’ll… have to inform him. Which... our group has managed to recover the Guardian, so there is that.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: That is very good news! Someone like him is invaluable in the struggle against the orcs and their Legion masters.
Velameestra Windrunner says: How’s Dorana doing?
Astalor Bloodsworn says: So far so good! She’s into her second trimester I believe. The light headedness has gotten more severe at times, but so far she seems to be well and good. We’ve also been able to ensure her husband has been stationed locally at present, in case any complications occur… But, so far nothing seems to be worse, just a bit more intense at times. And, well, Velameestra, if you’re interested, she did ask that if you were willing and able to do so, if you had no other obligations at the time… she did actually ask that if you wished to be present for the birth of her child, she would certainly not be opposed to it. Actually, quite the opposite, she would very much like to have you present. But that is many months from now. Perhaps write it on your calendar. I believe her estimated due date is… sometime around the new year, I believe.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll have to see what I’m doing at the time... but I’ll make note of it.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I would not dare to ask for anything concrete at present, certainly not with the changing political climate.
Velameestra Windrunner says: But that’s good she’s doing well. Thank you for the updates, Astalor.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes! I really wish I had better news for you, Velameestra, but I suppose that’s what war is all about.
Velameestra Windrunner says: And I would rather be apprised than blindsided.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Yes, and don’t think your efforts have gone unnoticed! I will say that the king has asked about you on more than one occasion during his visits back to Vengeance Landing.
Astalor offers a cheeky smile.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Ah… yes, I’m afraid my last word with him turned me into a bit of a liar. I did say I would endeavor to stay longer next time I returned given how short my convalescence was cut… but circumstances did not really allow for it.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: Well perhaps you can find an opportunity in the future. If either of us can catch a break long enough to do so. Until then, you’ll just have to keep the poor king wanting, won’t you?
His grin widens faintly.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I… suppose so. But I’ll let you go, Astalor. I’ll also have more for you next time I return.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: I look forward to seeing what progress you’ve made. Your visits are always the highlight of my… unscheduled… particular time during which I accomplish my goals.
Vel chuffs and Astalor bows.
Astalor Bloodsworn says: But for now, back to my beauty rest.
The dream around him fades as Vel allows the spell to end.
Remnii returns to her dreamscape, this time targeting Velen, and he promptly wraps his arms around her.
Velen says: I’m so glad you’re alright.
Remnii says: Heart’s sore, but alright.
Velen says: The Light has answered my prayers once again.
He runs his thumb against Remnii’s cheek and presses his forehead against hers.
Velen says: When I heard what had transpired from Master Jarod, I feared the worst. But I am glad you are safe.
He notes the staff Remnii has.
Velen says: This...the Lifestaff. Did you find it?
Remnii says: I have it in my possession.
Relief crosses’s Velen’s face.
Velen says: That is most fortunate, Remnii. Please, keep it safe until you return to my side.
Remnii says: I intend to. It’s a powerful thing.
Velen says: It is… it is. And now it is in your possession. Perhaps it is wise you know where it gets its powers from, so that you may safeguard it even further. On Argus, there was an artifact, one intrinsic to the security of our people. It was called the Crown of the Triumvate. It was the key to the heart of hte city, allowing us to unlock our defenses, our strengths… one of the most sophisticated pieces of the magic technology that protected our people. Each of the pieces of the crown was protected by one of the three of us, and the Lifestaff holds my own.
Velen lightly touches the crystal on top of the staff.
Velen says: This is the eye of prophecy… it serves as a focal point for the foresight I was gifted. Its strength flows through the staff, heightening its already potent strengths further. If the Legion were to possess this… they would have all three parts of the crown, and the devastation they could unleash would be devastating. It is good that they did not discover it after it was taken from me.
Remnii looks up at the staff.
Remnii says: I do not believe the night elves knew what they were dealing with. The priestess has the ata’mal crystals, but this was with every other staff that came in.
Velen says: I’m glad. Keep it safe and keep it secret. You have my gratitude, and the gratitude of all of our people… even if it is gratitude that could never truly be spoken. But it is good the high priestess has the ata’mal crystals. Once this misunderstanding is cleared… perhaps we can retrieve them as well.
Remnii says: I hope so. She seemed a wise and burdened woman. I wouldn’t know the type…
She gives a small smile.
Velen says: It is a curse that all leaders must carry. Even those who are our friends, and those who are our foes.
Remnii says: I believe before I hand this back to you, as I am magically aligned with it, I don’t believe I ever spoke to you without this. I know there is a great weight upon your shoulders, vakas, but I could not have known it was halfway because of the staff. I believe we should have at least one conversation where one of us is not more dour than the other.
Velen offers a sad smile.
Velen says: After so many years, Remnii, that weight… it becomes a part of who you are. I’m sorry that you have to bear even a fraction of this burden. Even for a short while.
Remnii shakes her head.
Remnii says: It is no trouble. I intend to do this and more, before the end. Tomorrow morning I intend to remove myself from being attuned to it… but I will tell you with certainty, as others have been telling me, I have never felt like this before--like I have to do this myself, like I’m the only one who can fix this entire mess. At the moment, though.
She looks at the staff.
Remnii says: Just because I understand this burden is not mine alone does not mean I do not wish to seize it as such. There is no doubt you will take the staff and it will be back at your side where it belongs, but before then, this is what I mean--without that additional weight. Of course it behooves you to be aware of the pain of our people. But… I will assure you then, even if I cannot at the moment, that if it’s going to take giving Divinius a bit of hell to ensure you know you are no longer alone, I will do so. And that is what I mean by a discussion. You’ve always been as you are to me, vakas, but you are a man as much as you are a figurehead. And one cannot always come before the other.
Velen nods.
Velen says: For so long… for so long I’ve been the Prophet. I’ve had to be the Prophet. But I must admit… old habits die hard.
He reaches out and puts a hand on Remnii’s shoulder with a gentle squeeze.
Velen says: I owe you that much. And in the future… should I forget this, should I forget these words, this promise you’ve made me to help our people… that this is not a burden to be carried by one man, or by one figurehead, or one Prophet… I will be counting on you to remind me. If the Light shines too bright for me to see it myself. And I will try to do the same for you. Because the burden of leadership is heavy, Remnii. And it is easy to tell yourself that you do not need help.
Remnii puts her hand over Velen’s.
Remnii says: I do not blame the staff for anything in particular, but I felt it like a mantle, and I still do. I don’t think I’ve cried or smiled… and that is very strange. I have news. We now know why the Dark Portal failed the first time. There is a piece or an avatar or… I do not believe it is him himself, but some amount of Sargeras is trapped on this world.
Remnii goes into the explanation that Wynn had offered.
Velen says: So it is likely Aegwynn who had reached out to Gul’dan… who had tried to usher them across those years ago.
Remnii nods.
Velen says: Now some fragment of her soul sought to right those wrongs.
Remnii says: All in an effort to keep her son safe in the first place. It feels cruel.
Remnii shakes her head.
Remnii says: I will leave you that. I simply wished to tell you.
Velen says: It is an important discovery. If something could be done about this avatar… it may be an opportunity to undo some of the power they have gained. To strike at the Dark Titan in a way few have done in the history of creation.
Remnii nods.
Remnii says: I believe there is more to know. We need to stop fighting with the kaldorei, and the rest of my friends need to go home.
Velen says: Yes, there are many evils in this world.
Remnii says: But I am interested in the idea of exploring more about this.
Velen says: You do not need to do everything, my child. But even knowing this information may equip others with the knowledge they need. That is more than enough. But for the time being, focus on finding your friends, and then I shall see you again.
Remnii says: This part of the nightmare is almost finally over.
Velen says: It is always darkest before the dawn, my child. Never forget that.
Remnii says: One cannot exist without the other. I am less afraid of the dark than I was.
Velen offers a knowing nod.
Remnii says: Blessed are the torchbearers, after all.
Velen says: Who bring light to the darkness.
Remnii nods, and Velen leans forward to kiss her on the forehead.
Remnii says: Thank you for seeing to Jarod. I know you and I know your mercy… but thank you.
Velen says: He is a good man. He cares greatly for this world. For life. For his friends. The Legion will always try to bend good men like him. I am simply glad I was able to break that shackle. The individuals who struck were led by a human.
Remnii says: I believe they are from an organization called the Hidden. We had a run in with them down south.
Velen says: When you arrive, I would know anything else you know. I would ask you show us. I believe they may be a key to unraveling this mystery and bringing peace to our peoples once again.
Remnii says: There is a friend attached to this that could also use some peace. But I will fill you in, and you will see the diamond blade, and you will see everything. And I will see you soon. I love you, vakas.
Velen says: I love you, Remnii.
The dream starts to fade.
