[Alliance] Chapter Three: Session Thirty Three

Characters: Alestrasz, Arthas Menethil, Cyrus Therepentous/Cyriok, Daval Prestor, Denarendil, Elissa Cross, Gilveradin Windrunner, Kathal Lynch/Wyrmthalak, Leallyasa, Orastrasz, Remnii, Riff, Seria, Terrance Gorgonne/Teremusion, Uther Menethil, Velameestra Windrunner, Victor Prestor

Locations: Cavern of the Soul

Creatures: Dragon, Dragonspawn, Revenent

January 4th

The group settle into the sanctum to take a brief short rest and Vel also starts erecting a tiny hut to counter the arid temperatures of the environment. She glances over at Victor as the cindery wings of his fly spell start to fade.

Velameestra Windrunner says: You know, Victor, I thought ominous skeletal nonsense was my thing.
Victor Prestor says: Oh, I honestly didn't control that. It just sort of... happened. I'm sorry if I stepped on your toes.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...that was my attempt at humor.
Victor Prestor says: Oh! Oh. You know. I suppose I should be able to to pick up on your humor at this point, but it's always distinctly hard to read.

The dryad, Leallyasa, sits neatly and starts to run a comb made of grass through her hair. Alestrasz is curled up around the corpse of Denarendil, and seems to be quite concerned.

Gil is looking at the body as well.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: I’ve… never seen an elf like that before.
Remnii says: They are… inhabitants of this world. I know that much. I believe… they are the progenitors of satyrs.

Leallyasa furrows her brow.

Leallyasa says: You’ve met a satyr?
Remnii says: Yes.
Leallyasa says: Well I’m sorry for that.

Remnii nods.

Remnii says: My people are in a complex tangle with demons.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Wait. The demon that helped us at Silvermoon?
Remnii says: Yes. That one, at least, is my friend. But I have met others who have been less amicable.
Leallyasa says: I would be careful around that one. Normally a satyr is only your friend if they want something.
Remnii says: I will employ the utmost caution. But much like eredar come from my people, the satyrs came from them.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Do you know elves like this?
Leallyasa says: Of course! There are many.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I’ve never seen or heard of them before.
Leallyasa says: That makes sense. I’ve never met elves as short as you, for what it’s worth.
Remnii says: And you’ve never seen anyone that looks like me?

The dryad shakes her head and Remnii sighs.

Leallyasa says: Once they are not within the Emerald Dream they come from the ancient land of Kalimdor.
Remnii says: I knew it!
Gilveradin Windrunner says: That’s where… Azshara came from, right?
Leallyasa says: Ah. Perhaps. I can’t say for sure. I’ve only heard that name vaguely in ancient tales. Ancient wars that are much older than me.
Velameestra Windrunner says: So… they are the kaldorei?
Leallyasa says: Yes. I believe that’s the name.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Ah. So he may be one of our ancestors then, Gil.
Leallyasa says: Possibly. I haven’t spoken to many of them.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: So if he’s a kaldorei…
Leallyasa says: And a powerful druid from the looks of it.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Well. We’re the quel’dorei. Why the name change?
Leallyasa says: I can’t say for sure. There were many wars.
Remnii says: The Legion was beaten back before. By forces here.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Tyranastrasz mentioned the war as well, and Azshara was involved as well. But that’s the extent I know.
Leallyasa says: That’s about as much as much I know too. I’m only about 3,000 years old.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: That’s our lifespan.
Leallyasa says: Oh.

She giggles.

Remnii says: Thank you for sharing with us what you know, and answering questions.
Leallyasa says: Of course. A friend of a druid is a friend of mine as well. Though I can’t say I enjoy fighting, what you’re doing here seems to be important. And you all seem to be good folk. I’ll certainly tell my sisters about this when I return.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I’m sure that’ll be an interesting story.
Leallyasa says: Most likely!
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I suppose a less happy question… do they have a burial rite?
Leallyasa says: I can’t say for certain, but I know that those who practice the teachings of Cenarius, like him, would likely just return himself to the earth. His spirit is long gone, and what was left of his body would be reclaimed by nature.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’m sure once we find Orastrasz he’ll know more about his friend.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Who’s Cenarius?
Leallyasa says: You don’t know? Cenarius is an ancient being, and, in a way, he’s the progenitor of me and my sisters, and my brothers, the keepers of the grove. He’s ancient and wise, and is the birthplace of the practices of druidism. He taught the first among the mortals to wield that magic, so the stories say.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I’ll hope to meet him one day.
Leallyasa says: Perhaps you will. It would be a great honor. People can’t just meet a demigod.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: No… I… huh…
Leallyasa says: I hope to one day bask in his radiance as well, but I’m a bit young for that still.
Remnii says: While this is one of the longer shots I could take… though you are young for your people… I believe, and you are from Kalimdor, yes?
Leallyasa says: Well, technically, I was born there, but it’s more apt to say I’m from the Emerald Dream itself.
Remnii says: Well… then, if you ever happen across anyone else that looks like me.
Leallyasa says: Do your people dream?
Remnii says: As in sleeping?
Leallyasa says: Yes, of course.
Remnii says: Yes, we do.
Leallyasa says: Then I will keep an eye out. Even if you are not from here originally, if you dream, you may become a dreamer, so I will keep an eye out.
Remnii says: As we are not from here… but I… they will do not do you any harm. A big adjustment period coming to a new place.
Leallyasa says: Of course. I can guarantee nothing, but I can see if I can find someone more knowledgeable about mortals in the Emerald Dream, and from far off places in the Great Dark. Maybe there’s a way to find them. I cannot say. I have much to learn about the wilds.

Remnii’s tail wags a bit, but she breathes and it slows down.

Remnii says: I would like that. Thank you. But… there may be a degree of interference on the physical end of things. My attempts to contact my people have been rebuffed by some sort of, what I believe, may be a nether storm? Communications are lacking. Scrying and other magical means have been blocked.
Leallyasa says: There have been disturbances. There have been rumors that there are dark forces at play, both beyond the veil and here in your world.
Remnii says: While I cannot say for certain, I believe the sudden coming of the draenei… it was not solely the reason for, but I believe it may have caused a degree of magical disturbance. But that should have been some odd 15 years ago.
Leallyasa says: Truth be told, I tend to frolic around far places in the dream. I like to see every piece, and it’s been some time since I’ve been there… but perhaps if there has been something strange happening, if Elune guides me to the correct answer, I will learn it.
Remnii says: Pardon me, I got excited. I am far from home. I don’t mean to press you. Thank you, but still, my apologies.
Leallyasa says: It’s mine. I’m never truly far from home. Especially in a place like this.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Are you and your sisters aware of the fact there’s been an invasion?

Leallyasa nods.

Leallyasa says: There have been many times the fel has crossed into Azeroth. Many more than any of us would like to admit, and we know there has been a larger than usual presence. But there are other problems at work as well.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Okay. That makes sense. Um. Who’s Elune?
Leallyasa says: Elune? I suppose you wouldn’t be aware. The mother moon. The great white moon in the sky. I know we’re inside.

Gil still has a baffled look.

Leallyasa says: That is her. The greater of the two celestial bodies that maintain vigilance over the night. I guess… in a sense she would be my grandmother? But…

There’s a really slow blink.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: You descend from the moon?
Leallyasa says: All the children of Cenarius do, yes. In fact, from what I understand, amongst many of the elves you would… also be descended from the moon? I can’t say I know much of their faith, but I know our own beliefs.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: So Elune is a… goddess?
Leallyasa says: Yes! That would be a word for it.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: What is she a goddess of?
Leallyasa says: The moon, silly!

Gil blushes.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I think what my brother is asking is what domains does she occupy?
Leallyasa says: Well, just about everything. Life, death, war, peace, the stars… her love created all things, one could say. But it’s not my place to say or worry. I just enjoy the gifts we’ve been given.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Well. Thanks for sharing what you do know.
Leallyasa says: Of course! I’m glad to be of assistance. And your reactions were pretty priceless.

She turns to Seria.

Leallyasa says: If you would call upon me again, I’d love to offer my aid. While I abhor violence, I will fight to protect the wilds. As long as you believe the same, you and all my sisters will get along fine.
Seria says: Thank you.
Leallyasa says: Of course. I believe my time here is coming to an end. It’s been a pleasure. I’ll hope to see you again someday!

She waves, and she seems to wash away into a green specter as she fades and disappears completely, leaving a single leaf on the grass.

Victor Prestor says: Well. She certainly had plenty of stories, didn’t she?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: She had 3000 years of experience.
Victor Prestor says: Which is apparently not much.
Remnii says: It’s really not.

Victor laughs.

Victor Prestor says: Perhaps not from a certain perspective.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: It’s all perspective.

Vel finishes going through her scrolls, and plucks one out.

Velameestra Windrunner says: If it would be helpful, I did have a scroll of speak with dead on hand. Perhaps Denarendil could give us some answers?

Gil asks Alestrasz if he would be alright with that, and Alestrasz confirms, and sits nearby so he could be seen.

After the better part of an hour, Vel drops the tiny hut and casts speak with dead on the body. The eyes open, animated by the blue-green necromantic energy, and the body still has a smile.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Who was it that killed you?
Denarendil says: A woman in red, her identity is unknown to me. But malevolence followed in her wake.

Alestrasz perks up.

Alestrasz says: She was responsible for taking me! So she’s been here as well. That bodes ill.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Where was the last place Orastrasz was?
Denarendil says: I do not know. I have not left my rest in some time. Now I never shall.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Were the protections around the Demon Soul still active?
Denarendil says: It has not been taken from its sanctuary. Were it to be removed, its guardians would know.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Did you summon the death revenant that was guarding your sanctum?
Denarendil says: By the wilds, no. Never would I trust such an entity to guard my sanctum. Nor would Orastrasz.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Have you felt anything strange around the Cavern of Souls in the past month.
Denarendil says: I would not know, for I have been dead.

The magic starts to fade, the requisite amount of questions answered, but a part of it lingers, and it shifts to a soft green for a moment.

Denarendil says: If you would serve the cause of this world, take what you need from this sanctum. I will not need it any longer. Elune-adora.

The magic then fades completely, leaving the druid resting peacefully against the tree.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Alestrasz, you said the woman in red took you? Do you have a further description?
Alestrasz says: She was shrouded in darkness. She commanded malevolent magics and her eyes burned with fire.

The group does spend some time exploring the sanctum. On the elf’s hand, there is a ring that appears to be made of wood with darnassian scripture that says “Hope”. It has a reasonable amount of evocation magic coming from it. There is a sack of belongings nearby as well. Beyond mundane things, there is also a small wooden token that seems to be in the shape of a tree that has conjuration and evocation magic lingering in it. There is a small twig which seems to have conjuration magic on it. There are two corked vials of some sort of sap that have slight magical properties, and a wooden nonmagical pipe.

Seria finds things of interest to her, such as rare oils that can be used for spells like reincarnation.

And most interestingly, there is a powerful magical presence from the tree the elf is leaning against. Vel casts identify on the tree, and her magic courses up and down the bark. It’s not truly a tree, not really. A phrase comes to mind, which Vel repeats. Gil translates it as “noble blade of Elune”--though the "blade" in the phrase is more akin to mean a blade of grass instead of an actual blade.

And then, the tree shrinks before her very eyes, and it transforms into a staff that is now sticking out of the ground. It seems to be made of intertwining branches, and there is a snapdragon flower with green and yellow flowers. Denarendil’s body slowly lowers against the ground.

It’s a magical staff called a dreamer’s dragonstaff. The staff can be wielded as a magical quarter staff, and it can cast spells and also buff the attuner’s spell abilities. The spells it can cast are animal friendship, dream, nature’s curse, sleep, protection from poison, phase shift, trueseeing, and blur. Blur can be cast at will. She promptly holds it out to Seria to take.

She also examines the other objects they had gathered.

The bronzewood ring is a magic ring that wards against darkness even in the deepest night. It is imbued with the powers of hope and night. It’s a powerful magical ring. In order to attune to it, you have to be outdoors at night.

The token is a charm, which can cast a number of different spells once before it disappears.

The branch was likely created based on peculiar circumstances with the dryad, and when snapped, it could mimic one of the abilities the dryad had.

The emerald sap can be used as a reagent, and when consumed, it can restore hit points.

The wooden pipe, Alestrasz takes and folds in Denarendil’s hands.

They then leave the sanctum and are once again confronted with the lava lake.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Alestrasz, you said your father’s hoard is across that pass, correct?
Alestrasz says: Correct! If we can cross the way by the stone bridge, there are small natural caverns we can squeeze through. As long as there are no creatures there, we should be alright. There are some cliffs to the south.
Velameestra Windrunner says: The more direct path would be that cliff side, correct?
Alestrasz says: Correct!
Velameestra Windrunner says: How about a third option.

She casts wall of force to make a path up to the cliff side, displacing the steam.

Alestrasz says: A splendid idea! Your magical prowess has no bounds, Velameestra!
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Careful. If her head swells too much, she’ll hit it on the door frame.
Alestrasz says: Oh! That would be painful. But we don’t have doors here. In fact, the first time I used a door was yesterday! It was fascinating!

The group starts to head across the invisible bridge, and the heat is almost overwhelming even with the defenses of the wall of force. Elissa is muttering reassurances to herself, trying really hard not to look down.

Gil looks around and sees something move in the lava below. The twin fins of the magmasaur appear and then sink again.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: We should move faster.
Uther Menethil says: I’m trying. But it’s hard to walk on what you can’t really see.

Gil looks to the south and sees the cavern that Alestrasz had mentioned, and Alestrasz is looking at it with a degree of nervous eagerness.

Across the way, something walks out from behind the cliff overheat: a hellfire revenant. He looks down from the bridge and speaks in a raspy voice.

Hellfire Revenant says: None shall trespass upon the chamber of the soul without proper sacrifice.

It stares down at the group, who continues to move.

The revenant continues to repeat the warning.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: What’s the proper sacrifice?
Hellfire Revenant says: One must let go of their burdens and offer it to fire.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Alestrasz, this was also not here, correct?
Alestrasz says: I don’t think he was summoned by my father at all.
Victor Prestor says: Lets just keep moving, what’s he going to do?

Gil points at the revenant and then back to the lava.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Nothing should be able to pass through the wall of force.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Well, unless someone wants to throw their burdens into the lava--Vel don’t push me--we should go.
Victor Prestor says: ...You know Vel, that is somewhat tempting.

Vel just stares at Gil blankly.

Uther Menethil says: Alright, I have an idea.

He holds his hammer over the lava like he’s going to drop it.

Uther Menethil says: Alright, now go!

And then he starts to run.

Gil reaches out and tries to reshape the flames that make up the hellfire revenant, and his movements seem to slow. Vel hurls a frostbolt at the revenent, who blocks it with his shield, and dashes after her brother before dropping out of sight so she can maintain concentration on the wall of force bridge. Uther also follows.

Victor holds a hand out, and the stone bridge under the revenant begins to crumble and collapse as he uses mold earth. The revenant plummets and splashes into the lava.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Way to remove our burdens.

Victor cracks up and hurries to the edge of the bridge. Alestrasz also laughs as he flies after them to direct them to the hoard.

To the north, Gil notes a huge nest with massive eggs, but that’s not the way Alestrasz is leading them.

They squeeze through the narrow cavern, and Vel can hear the sound of something splashing behind them and rising out of the lava.

Victor Prestor says: We’ve got company!

He starts to try and mold earth to create another blockade at the area next to the wall of force to make it harder for the revenant to follow. The revenant gets through and hits Victor with immolate, setting his clothing on fire as he flees into the cavern. The searing heat of the nearby lava is overwhelming as they pass close by.

They manage to crest the next cliff side, away from the lava, and they enter into a chamber that is the dragon’s hoard. Sitting before them is a massive pile of valuables: coins of all kinds, and in it there are scabbards of jeweled swords and immaculate cases that likely have valuables inside. It’s a truly magnificent cache.

Laying upon the hoard and curled in a tight ball is a very large red dragon. His sides are heaving with slumbering breaths.

Alestrasz says: Father!

Beyond the stalagmites there is another side cavern, and there appears to be some bones in it.

Alestrasz says: I’m glad he’s alright. Should we go and wake him and tell him what has transpired?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I imagine if his charge is in danger, he should know of it. And so he sees you’re alright.
Alestrasz says: Wait here! I’ll introduce you!

He swoops over to the slumbering dragon and pounces on his head.

Alestrasz says: Father! Father I’m here! I brought friends to meet you! We believe the demon soul may be in danger! Wake up!

The great dragon starts to stir, and he looks down at the group, and then at Alestrasz. The dragon’s pupil’s dilate and he swings his tail around, swatting Alestrasz across the cavern with a great roar.

Alestrasz strains to get up and Orastrasz rises to his feet and roars again, flames flickering in his jaws.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: We’re here to warn you, Orastrasz, please stop!

He runs over to Alestrasz to help him up. The young dragon is looking at his father, quite hurt. Orastrasz takes a step off his hoard, unphased. However, Gil catches something out of the corner of his eye--in the side cavern, covered in bones and refuse, is the figure of Arthas Menethil. His hammer is on the ground nearby, and his librum not far to his other side.

Gil casts healing light on Arthas upon seeing him, but he doesn’t seem to move.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: Uther, he’s here!

Alestrasz stands back up.

Alestrasz says: Father, it’s me! What’s wrong? It’s me, Alestrasz!

As soon as he approaches, the great dragon’s tail whips out and strikes into Alestrasz again. Orastrasz shoves him aside and steps forward, his massive maw blazing with fire. Gil and Victor use absorb elements.

Remnii, Elissa, Seria, and Victor drop to the ground in the swath of fire. However, as Elissa drops, she catches herself on her knee, barely staying up. She casts mass flash of light in response, reviving her downed fellows, and she runs to Gil’s side, using her channel divinity. Minty-colored vines grow from the ground and start to ensnare Orastrasz, but he roars and shatters them away.

Victor Prestor says: I’m not sure what’s going on, but I’m not going to let this thing kill us!

Victor runs up to Orastrasz, drawing his sword as he prepares to fight. Uther follows suit, but the dragon flares his wings and Elissa and Gil are knocked back. Orastrasz then takes to the sky.

Uther gets to Elissa’s side and brings her back to her feet with his lay on hands.

Uther Menethil says: Orastraz, we are not your enemies! But there are enemies in this cavern! Don’t let them succeed!

As the dragon swoops around, Uther catches his dilated eye, and it becomes clear that the pleas are falling on deaf ears.

Uther Menethil says: Something is not right!

Vel activates bladesong and then prepares to cast wall of force if Orastrasz makes another pass.

Remnii says: Should I dispel magic?
Velameestra and Gilveradin Windrunner says: Yes!

Remnii casts dispel magic on Orastrasz, but nothing seems to happen.

Remnii says: Whatever it is, it’s powerful!

Seria, meanwhile, uses her wildshape to take the form of a dreamrunner. She then uses calm emotions, and her horn starts to glow. Orastrasz hesitates for a moment, but then he shakes it off with a roar.

Remnii says: Elissa, will you be able to heal us?
Elissa Cross says: I-I can try!

Remnii also tries to cast calm emotions, but it also seems to not work. Gil casts rejuvenation on Elissa. Alestrasz also helps heal Elissa, while Elissa uses aura of vitality on herself, and then she heals Remnii.

Uther immediately starts to book it to his father. Arthas seems to be alive. His armor is damaged, but he is wearing it. The Librum of Justice and his hammer, Light’s Vengeance, are on the ground next to him. Uther grabs the Librum and opens it, and pulls out the gem Remnii made him in preparation to read it.

Victor casts earthbind to try and prevent Orastrasz from flying, and the earthen chains erupt from his arm, but unfortunately, Orastrasz is able to resist.

Orastrasz emits a withering roar, causing a stalagmite to crash into the ground. He then swoops down at Victor with his claws. At the last second, Vel triggers her wall of force, and the dragon’s claws and fangs break against it. Orastrasz roars in frustration and then soars around, seemingly not sure why his attack was deflected.

Victor Prestor says: Do we have a plan here?
Velameestra Windrunner says: He’s likely ensorcelled. We need to drop the enchantment.
Victor Prestor says: Not like that’s a tall order or anything!

Suddenly, as Orastrasz is flying around, he lurches as if something impacted him. The dragon releases a blood curdling roar, and blood splurts into the lava below.

Gil heals Victor and moves back, still trembling from the roar.

Something else slams into Orastrasz, and more blood begins to spurt forth. Seria, as a dreamrunner, runs over to Arthas, touching her horn to him. The healing takes hold, but he is seemingly still unconscious.

Alestrasz is still trembling and confused.

Remnii casts mass cure wounds.

There are other impacts on Orastrasz, and a crossbow bolt slams into the far wall behind Gil.

There is a string of curses from Vel, and she drops the wall of force separating them from Orastrasz, and throws a second one up, protecting Orastrasz from the assailants across the way.

Elissa Cross says: What’s the plan, Vel?
Velameestra Windrunner says: He’s ensorcelled somehow. We need to dispel it off. I don’t have the spell prepared.
Elissa Cross says: Do you know what it is?
Velameestra Windrunner says: I haven't been able to get a good enough look.

Meanwhile, Uther is rapidly trying to flip through the Librum, but he is unable to find an answer.

Orastrasz goes to turn on the assailants that were attacking him, and slams into the other wall of force that had been erected to protect him. He roars in frustration.

Gilveradin Windrunner says: Alestrasz, where is it hidden?

Alestrasz points up to a ledge above the hoard, and Gil uses zephyr strike and gets to the ledge. He sees what appears to some kind of necklace with a beautiful metal pendant and a golden chain.

In that moment, Orastrasz starts to fly back.

Elissa Cross says: Vel, you’re our best chance at figuring out what's going on. Do you want me to ward you again?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Do what you think is best.

Elissa warding bonds Vel and Vel analyzes Orastrasz. Something clicks.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Feeblemind. It’s feeblemind. Remnii!
Remnii says: I don’t have greater restoration prepared!
Victor Prestor says: Well what are we supposed to do? How do we stop it?
Velameestra Windrunner says: That spell can only be healed by a very narrow range of spells. Remnii doesn’t have it.
Victor Prestor says: Well I’m not going to stand here and let him kill us!

He uses fly, the skeletal, burning wings erupting from his back again, and starts to engage Orastrasz.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Victor! Don’t fly over the lava, if that spell drops you’re plummeting!
Victor Prestor says: I’m not planning on staying here for long!

He swings into Orastrasz multiple times, grabbing onto the dragon.

Using a hail mary, Remnii uses sending to send a stream of soothing words into Orastrasz’s mind. The dragon seems to calm slightly, and he flings Victor off. Orastrasz then flies down and lands next to Remnii.

Remnii says: Orastrasz! Please your young needs you.

Meanwhile, Seria continues to heal Arthas, but he still seems to be unconscious.

Alestrasz flies over to Orastrasz and timidly walks forward.

Alestrasz says: Father. It’s me!
Remnii says: He’s very confused right now. It will not always be this way. Try to keep things simple.

Alestrasz pushes his nose forward and nuzzles Orastrasz, and Orastrasz makes a low rumble. But then something strikes into his back, and more blood pours to the ground.

Remnii says: We need to deal with the people shooting him!

Down from below, they hear Victor.

Victor Prestor says: Father!? What are you doing here!?

Uther continues flipping through the Librum, and he finds a passage. “Justice granted does not always feel right. In fact, sometimes feel can feel worse than any other course, but that doesn’t make it any less true.”

The passage instills him with the briefest stint of energy, and it cures his fear. But the answers he is looking for may not be found in this tome.

Uther grabs Arthas’s hammer, and then he runs with all haste toward his cousin.

Uther Menethil says: Victor, please, you have to stop your father!

Gil hops down, tucking the medallion down his shirt, and hiding behind a pile of money. The mark on his chest starts to tingle. Vel erects another wall of force, trying to protect Orastrasz’s flank. Orastrasz, confused, rails against the invisible wall as he tries to get to his perceived enemies.

Remnii, continuing soothing words, heals Orastrasz. Elissa follows Remnii’s lead and also heals Orastrasz.

They can hear Daval and Victor talking in the distance.

Meanwhile, Seria uses druidcraft to make the smell of a skunk as a smellingsalt to try and wake Arthas, but it seems to have no effect.

Alestrasz hides behind his father, waiting to see what’s happening.

There is a grappling hook that flies up to the edge of the cliff, and Victor climbs up to the top. He has a furrowed brow and looks confused and angry as he glances back. A moment later, Daval Prestor follows. Orastrasz continues to rake at the wall of force.

King Daval Prestor says: It has been some time, everyone, and I will explain as soon as we put down this monster.

He draws a black bolt and loads his crossbow.

Uther stands between Daval and Orastrasz.

Uther Menethil says: I can give you no orders, but if it’s your intention to kill this dragon, it will be over my dead body.
King Daval Prestor says: You would defend the creature who took your father?
Uther Menethil says: He did not take my father.
King Daval Prestor says: Yet here he is.
Uther Menethil says: In the lair where we fought a revenant. Where our true enemy has been in. This dragon behind me is under the effect of a feeblemind spell. I should know, I’ve been there.

Daval’s eyes dart over to Alestrasz.

King Daval Prestor says: I see. The young one has filled your mind with lies. I would not trust the word of a dragon, Uther. They are not to be trusted. Allow me to correct this error.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I identified the spell. Creatures that are feebleminded can’t cast the spells that took Arthas. And that child was entrapped.

Three other figures mount the platform. Two they don’t recognize, but the third is Kathal Lynch. Daval explains his people were planted as spies, and that the red dragons were planning on using Arthas for a ransom, and to help the horde.

Uther Menethil says: And uncovering this secret was worth the life of your wife?
King Daval Prestor says: Her presence there was not expected.
Uther Menethil says: Unfortunately, my lord. As we have been investigating this matter all across this continent, the evidence I have uncovered does not align with what you are presenting. And I stand by, if you wish to end the lives of these creatures, you will have to kill me to do it.
Remnii says: I would also bring forward that a great dragon was directly fighting against the Horde during the sacking of Silvermoon. Ransoming to the Horde… if they are to be as wise as I have found them to be… The Horde does not work in such a way.

Daval looks at Remnii and sighs.

King Daval Prestor says: I had hoped that you would not have such information. But it seems you are all much more well informed than I could have imagined. Kill them.
Victor Prestor says: What?! Father!

Daval glances at Victor, who is cut off mid-sentence, and Victor starts to scream out in pain and drops to his knees in agony.

King Daval Prestor says: Clearly you’ve been in contact with the red flight, thus you must die. This conversation is over.

It’s likely the other two people are Lord Terrance Gorgonne and Cyrus Therepentous.

King Daval Prestor says: I’m sorry about this, truly. I will ensure your father throws a grand funeral.

Gil gets on a pile of gold and lines up a shot, trying to draw on the power of the amulet he has hidden. The magic ignites, and a familiar reddish-green aura washes up and down him. Daval looks at Gil.

King Daval Prestor says: Gilveradin has it. He’s in the hoard.

Gorgonne draws his rapier slowly, and then slams into Uther. One of the attacks connect, but the others are turned aside.

Victor drops prone, and the chainmail on the side of his arm starts to melt.

Orastrasz flies up and over the wall of force, and then slams into Gorgonne.

Terrence Gorgonne says: Miserable creature.

He swings back at Orastrasz. Elissa heals Uther, and then attacks Gorgonne.

Vel drops the wall of force, and then casts slow, the spectral, icy chains wrapping around Gorgonne and Therepentous.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Alestrasz, get in the lake.

Alestrasz nods, scared and getting ready to flee.

Daval, meanwhile, raises a hand at Orastrasz and begins to cast disintegrate. Vel slices her hand through the air, countering it.

King Daval Prestor says: Hmph. Very well, if you wish to delay the inevitable.

Remnii uses mass cure wounds, healing everyone around her in an aura of holy light.

King Daval Prestor says: You idiots. Destroy, the draenei. To do otherwise would be folly.
Cyrus Therepentous says: Yes, my lord.

Alestrasz immediately dives into the lava lake and disappears.

Lynch runs past Uther and goes for Vel.

Kathal Lynch says: You thought you were so clever! I’ll show you clever!

She swings in on Vel, and Vel is able to parry two of the strikes with her blade, but the last one slams into her knee and it buckles, bringing Vel to the ground.

Seria, meanwhile, is still by Arthas. She heals him again and screams “YOUR HIGHNESS. YA NEED TO GET UP” with her telepathy.

King Daval Prestor says: Finish her.

Daval looks at Vel, and Lynch swings in on Vel. However, Vel stays up, some of the damage siphoned to Elissa due to the warding bond.

Lynch looks up as Seria moves in.

Kathal Lynch says: There’s a fucking horse over there!
King Daval Prestor says: …pardon?

Orastrasz whips into Gorgonne with his tail, and Therepentous runs at Remnii. However, the spectral chains are dragging him back, and while he swings at Remnii, she is able to step out of the way.

Uther then quickens a hold person, and Gorgonne’s body seizes. He slams in with his father’s hammer, holy light radiating around it. His second hit also slams into him, and he’s not looking so good.

Necromantic energy wafts around Vel’s hand as the image of a blue-green, spectral skull materializes in it. She hurls it forward and it blasts into Lynch’s chest. Energy wafts from it and up Vel’s arm, starting to knit her wounds together as she feeds off the life energy it provided. Lynch looks rather caught off guard by the magic, staggering back with a snarl.

Kathal Lynch says: Not bad.

Seria runs at Therepentous and stomps on his foot, getting a decent hit on him. Therepentous stabs into Remnii, but as Daval commends him to attack again, that strike misses.

Gorgonne continues to struggle, and then he grins. His eyes slit as he transforms into a black dragon before their eyes.

Terrence Gorgonne, now Teremusion the Devourer says: I will stretch these wings over your grave!

Lynch runs for Gil, shoving Vel aside. She strikes into Gil, dropping him to the ground. She reaches out to the amulet to grabs it, but it burns her and she snarls, and the death ward from the amulet flares as Gil’s eyes open.

Kathal Lynch says: WHAT?

Uther continues to swing into Teremusion, slamming into the drake’s side with his maul.

Daval steps backwards, continuing to watch as he looks down at Victor. He grins, the smile incredibly unnerving.

Elissa slams into the dragon that had just emerged, both of her attacks striking as she heals Gil, and an aura of energy of healing light also immerses the group. Gil casts zephyr strike and then starts to run towards the narrow passage they came from. The scalding heat burns him as he runs by. It’s almost overbearing, but he manages to get through.

Orastrasz swoops up and tears into the smaller black dragon that had appeared with a bellowing roar. He then flies back to block Therepentous from reaching Remnii.

The chain mail fully melts off Victor, revealing his left arm. Its now covered in thick black scales. His screaming continues, reaching a higher pitch.

Gil casts zephyr strike again and continues to run as fast as he can, disappearing through the cavern.

Teremusion the Devourer says: If you want something back right, you must do it yourself.

He disengages and takes off into the air in pursuit of the elf. And then Daval looks after Gil.

King Daval Prestor says: Hm. A noble attempt. But not one that will serve you. Victor, my son. Finish what we started. I will retrieve our prize.

Then Victor starts to laugh, and he stands, picking up his sword. The left side of his face is now covered in scales, his left eye is orange and draconic, and his grin is lopsided and twisted.

Victor Prestor says: As you wish… father.

He moves in on Uther, his blade rippling with fiery shadow.

Victor Prestor says: I’VE BEEN WAITING FOR THIS FOR SO LONG, UTHER. TO REALLY TEST YOUR SKILLS.

He takes a swing at Uther, and Uther blocks. His hand starts to ripple with energy.

Victor Prestor says: lets get this started with something fun!

His hand ripples with energy as he starts to cast disintegrate, and Vel’s eyes widen and she immediately counters it. Victor glares at her.

Victor Prestor says: Then you’ll be next!

He swings into Uther, and as he does, there is a hint of hesitation in his right eye. He swings again, however, and his blade erupts into black shadow flame. He starts to laugh.

Uther Menethil says: Victor. This isn’t you! You have to fight this!
Victor Prestor says: This is me! This has always been me! You don’t think I was telling the truth last night, DID YOU?
Elissa Cross says: Victor, stop! What are you thinking!?

Victor’s laughter stops for a moment.

Victor Prestor says: SHUT UP. SHUT UP.

He reaches a hand to his head, and then he swings at Elissa, who staggers backwards.

Daval steps off the ledge, out of view. As he hits the ground, they hear the earth start to quake, and the cave trembles.

Therepentous swings in on Orastrasz.

Uther Menethil says: This isn’t you! You’re the crowned prince of Alterac. You love your people. You love your mother!
Victor Prestor says: Shut up! You don’t know anything about me! You always saw me for what you thought I was!

A tear starts to stream from Victor’s non-draconic eye.

Uther Menethil says: Elissa. Help the others. I can handle him!
Elissa Cross says: Are you sure?
Uther Menethil says: As sure as I’ve ever been.

Vel, in a panic, looks where her brother disappeared, then back to Uther and Victor, and then at Lynch. She grits her teeth, her grip tightening on her sword, before she looks back at Victor.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Victor, we’re your friends! Everything we’ve done, it was to help you!
Victor Prestor says: Shut up. SHUT UP. YOU DIDN’T NEED TO TEACH ME ANYTHING.
Velameestra Windrunner says: BUT I DID.

Victor bites his lip, a look of uncertainty passing his face.

Lynch tries to swing into Remnii, but the draenei is able to dance around the strikes as Orastrasz hits.

Remnii says: Victor, we made a promise to you, and here we are fulfilling it!
Victor Prestor says: No! Shut up!
Remnii says: Come to your senses!

Victor drops his sword and clasps his hands to his head, continuing to struggle against whatever force had started to claim him.

Victor Prestor says: GET OUT OF MY HEAD. YOU’RE NOT ME. I’M NEVER YOU.

Seria hears a voice in her head. It’s hard to make out. It’s a very small voice reaching out to her. It’s a voice she never heard before: “I can help!”

Orastrasz swings his tail at Lynch, but she is able to duck out of the way.

Seria says [telepathically]: Who are you?

There’s another push. “It’s me.”

She’s not sure, but it seems muffled, and familiar, in a way. She retreats back to Arthas, and Therepentous strikes at her as she leaves, but he misses.

Seria says [telepathically]: Yes. Please help.

Seria untransforms and regenerates some of her health. And then something starts to shake on her back. Her egg. The tremors grow more and more violent, and she pulls it off her back and sets it on the ground. It looks like it’s going to hatch.

Orastrasz flies up and tries to take out the black dragon that is fleeing. He grabs it in his jaws, shakes him, and throws him into a wall where the drake slumps to the ground, dead. Then he goes for Victor.

Uther Menethil says: NO.

He jumps over Victor’s body, and Orastrasz’s claw comes down, but he stops, and then flies at Cyrus instead.

Velameestra Windrunner says: Elissa, drop the bond.
Elissa Cross says: Right!

Vel then closes in on Lynch, who was striking at Remnii, and icy energy manifests from her hand as a cone of cold flares across Lynch’s body, coating the hoard behind her in ice.

Kathal Lynch says: You don’t stop, do you?
Velameestra Windrunner says: Get away from her.

Then Riff’s egg hatches, and a magnificent rainbow serpent slithers forth.

Riff says [telepathically]: We need to help them!

Riff's wings turn a bright red, as does its eyes, and it casts bane on Lynch and Therepentous.

Vel continues to hone in on Lynch and casts slow on both her and Therepentous. The icy chains erupt around them both, slowing their movements.

Velameestra Windrunner says: I said get away from HER.

Remnii retreats behind Vel and Orastrasz, the chains inhibiting the two enemies’ ability to attack her.

Remnii says: We have more important things to do.

Remnii holds out a hand at Lynch.

Remnii says: You need to see what you are inviting into this world.

Spurned forth by the spell cast by Remnii, running through Lynch’s mind is a 25,000 year old pain of a people.

Kathal Lynch says: You think this hurts?

The Alteraci knight is wincing in clear pain.

Remnii says: I know it does.

Uther drops down and pulls Victor into a hug.

Uther Menethil says: I know who you are. You are Victor fucking Prestor. You are the crowned prince of Alterac. You love your people. You love your mother. And this. Is. Not. YOU. We’re blood. Come back to me. To us. I’m not going to finish this without you.

Victor’s screaming stops, and his arms go limp for a moment.

Victor Prestor says: Will you forgive me, Uther?
Uther Menethil says: Always.
Victor Prestor says: I don’t know who I am. I don’t… but maybe you’re right. Maybe he was right. But I do know one thing. I… am NO ONE’S pawn. These knights are not who they seem to be. Lets put them out of their misery.

Victor’s face is still partially distorted, but angry tears are streaming from both his eyes.

They stand up together.

Uther Menethil says: Good. We still have to lead everyone into the golden age of prosperity, right? But first thing’s first.

He makes a move to go for Therepentous.

Victor Prestor says: Focus on the other one. I’ll handle him. I’ll shed this snake’s skin.

Uther continues past Vel, and Orastrasz covers him with another tail attack. He then swings into Lynch, holy energy surging through him. She doubles over. Lynch tries to swing at Uther, but she misses horribly.

Cyrus tries to attack Vel, but she is able to parry his blade aside.

Orastrasz leaps over to Lynch, lifting her up, and slamming her back down. Her body melts into her true form: a four-legged, black dragonspawn, still carrying her weapon. Wyrmthalak.

Elissa Cross says: I’m glad to have you back, Victor!

She smiles at Victor and then goes to help Uther with the newly revealed dragonspawn. She tries to ensnare her, but the dragonspawn is able to break free. Victor stands and points a finger at Therepentous.

Victor Prestor says: Sorry for this, Vel.

The slow and the bane are dropped, but so is the true polymorph, revealing him as another dragonspawn: Cyriok.

Victor then closes, his blade shimmering with shadow magic. The first attack is able to be turned away, but the second attack slams into him with Victor’s full fury.

Seria continues to regenerate slowly and also heal Arthas.

Vel swings into Cyriok, her blade coating with icy rime as she drives it into the dragonspawn. She looks at Victor.

Velameestra Windrunner says: We’ll take him together!
Cyriok says: You’ll do no such thing!

He tries to use dominate person on Victor, but Victor shakes it off with a laugh.

Uther swings into Wyrmthalak, his hammer continuing to radiate holy energy, Victor thrusts his sword into Cyriok. Fire and ice explodes as Victor severs the dragonspawn’s head from his body. He vaults over and then starts to wail on Wyrmthalak, his sword blazing with shadow flame. She’s just barely holding up.

Wyrmthalak says: I’ll take you all with me!

She tries to swing around, throwing her greatsword aside and grabbing a bow that streaks with fire, but Uther and Orastrasz strike into her. Her skull is bashed into her torso with a mighty swing of Uther's hammer.

The earth is still trembling.

Elissa Cross says: We need to get out of here!
Riff [telepathically]: I have an idea. If you all would trust me.

Now that the battle is complete, Vel looks in the direction Gil had disappeared into in clear panic.

Velameestra Windrunner says: What about my brother?!
Riff [telepathically] says: There’s no time. This place is falling. You need to trust he will be alright.
Uther Menethil says: I won’t leave without my father.

Victor puts a hand on Uther’s shoulder.

Victor Prestor says: Uther… I learned things. When he took over. He won’t wake until my father commands it. I’ll stay here and keep him safe. I’ll cover for you.
Uther Menethil says: Victor, I promised my mother I would bring him back.
Victor Prestor says: I’ll bring him back for you. Don’t worry, I promise. We’ll lead this place into a golden age. That’s what you said, right?
Uther Menethil says: I did.
Victor Prestor says: You all helped me more than I can say. And I need to know what this is all about. All I know is my father needs me for something. So go. Get out of here before this place collapses. Don’t worry. I will protect him.
Uther Menethil says: I trust you.

Uther presses his forehead to Victor’s, and he smiles in return.

Victor Prestor says: Wherever you’re taking them, don’t be too long, would you?
Uther Menethil says: I’ll see you soon, cousin.
Victor Prestor says: By all rights, you’ll be dead after this. Use that to your advantage. And don’t miss me too much.
Remnii says: Too late.
Victor Prestor says: Now go on! This place is going to collapse!

He heads into the cave, and Orastrasz also follows Victor into the cave. He sits next to Arthas and covers the pair of them with his wings, emitting a low growl.

Riff says [telepathically]: Everyone, get close! This place is warded, but I might have a way out! I won’t let you all be buried!

He spreads his wings, and magic starts to flow around them as he starts to cast plane shift. And they are pulled through a planar rift. They travel through a darkness, and their bodies are stretched and compressed, then their eyes open to a bright red field. A blood moon glows overhead, and there are jagged peaks covered in a thick forest. The leaves are crimson, and in the far distance, there is a mountain with a great coiled creature. Bright red blood pours from it in a steady stream that glows like lava as it falls into this blood red jungle.

And despair washes over them.

The serpent floats over to Seria, and his form shifts. In a moment, he transfigures himself into a humanoid form--one of a young troll--and grabs her into a hug.