[Alliance] Chapter Two: Session Thirty-Two
Over the Timeskip
At some point during the early point in the week after the escape from Quel’thalas, Jaina approaches Vel and asks to have a word. They head to Jaina’s study, and she enters in. The door is closed behind them.
Jaina: “Vel I didn’t get the chance to thank you for everything that you did. For helping all of us during our time in Quel’thalas and now. If it weren’t for you, I don’t know know what would happen to Uther.”
Jaina continues to explain that Vel’s help and friendship had been invaluable to a lot of different people, though ultimately that was not what she had called her there for. Jaina draws attention to the visible effects of Vel’s corruption, and Vel confirms that she had ultimately pushed too far when they tapped into the Sunwell.
Jaina asked if there was anything she could do, and after some hesitation, Vel suggests that it may be time for her to step down as Uther’s tutor more permanently than the temporary leave she had taken.
Jaina expresses that she is glad that Vel had suggested such a thing, as someone like Uther, who utilizes a means of magic so different from a Kirin Tor mage, might not be the best for her own recovery. Vel agrees, mentioning it may be best that she and Uther put some distance between each other.
Jaina asks if something happened, and Vel mentioned it was more a realization on her part, and Jaina said that she won’t pry.
Jaina expresses her concern about the fact she’s apparently being targeted by demons, and Vel states that she will continue looking into information about the matter as her brother may have given her a worthwhile contact on the matter--referring to Meryl, as he was a member of the Council of Tirisfal. Jaina thanks her again, and once more tells Vel to take of herself before allowing her leave.
Vel attempts to get ahold of Meryl by carpet bombing sendings. After a few tries, when she sends a missive out toward Brill, she gets a response.
Meryl: “When I heard the rumors at Dalaran I feared as much would be the case. I feel it would be wise the two of us meet as soon as possible.”
It turns out Meryl was in Lordaeron, and he looks up in her direction from outside the keep.
They meet up outside. Meryl suggests that they speak somewhere more private, and he taps his staff against the wall of an alley. A door materializes, and the door knob itself appears to be a tome of some sort. He opens the door for her.
Past the door is an immaculate hall that looks a lot like Dalaran architecture, though it’s old. There are rows upon rows of bookshelves, as well as a peculiar banner that is suspended above the pedestals. It’s similar to the Arcane Eye of Dalaran, but different.
Meryl explains they are in the Hall of the Guardian in Dalaran.
He asks about the entity that Velameestra had mentioned in the sending. The demon that he had been concerned about. As Vel explains, his fears are, in fact, confirmed. He asks more about Valeera and what type of person she is. He’s reassured by the fact that Valeera not being sure of her purpose means she may not have the ambition the demon feeds on.
Meryl says he’s going to need to examine Valeera personally, and Vel agrees to make arrangements to do so. She also asks if he might know what the Legion is targeting Jaina, and Meryl seems to be as confused as everyone else is about the matter.
Vel leaves the way she came in, and Meryl states he will be meeting with her again later that day to look at Valeera.
The ship bearing the Ranger-General is also arriving, and Gil is going to meet with her and Nathanos--along with many other Farstriders.
Lor’themar steps forward and offers a hand to Sylvanas, expressing that he is happy to find that she had escaped the madness. She said it was in no short thanks to Nathanos, and she is happy to see Lor’themar as well.
She looks over the rest of the Farstriders, and she glimpses Gil and Lirath. She visibly exhales upon seeing them, and smiles. She approaches them both and pulls them into a hug. The relief is palpable.
Sylvanas: “You’re both alright. What about Arator. Velameestra. The others?”
Gil informs her that they are present in Lordaeron, but Alleria was outside of Silvermoon, and Turalyon and Vereesa were still inside. She asks about Linore and Sylvos as well. Gil informs her that Linore got out, but Sylvos fell.
Sylvanas: “May the winds guide them to safety. That’s all we can hope for presently.”
She turns to address all the farstriders, explaining that Dalaran is not equipped to deal with the refugee crisis, and neither is Lordaeron, truly, but they would have to be relying heavily on Lordaeron and, likewise, Lordaeron on them.
She tells them all to continue providing help to those that are relying on the Farstriders until a more concise plan can be formed. Many will likely go to the East Weald to reinforce the barrier, and get ready to reinforce the barrier.
Sylvanas: “When you became a farstrider none of you perhaps expected to do this. To defend a home, a home that may be lost, but a home is the people as well as the land. I cannot guarantee that we will be able to compensate you for your endeavors until perhaps years from now when we can return to our home. But… I will need to rely on you all. We will all have to rely on each other. We must remember what it is to be Thalassian, remember what it is to be a member of the Quel’dorei people, and we will fight for what that means.”
Everyone nods.
Nathanos: “Well, get to it again. We got plenty of people here, and plenty of people in the city that need our help.”
Everyone starts to disperse.
Gil takes a moment to inform Sylvanas of what they know so far, including the draenei and what Remnii had told them.
Sylvanas: “You’ve been busy, Gilveradin. I’m very glad that you and the others were able to make it out safely. And with Jaina as well. We will need her help. I will be speaking with her privately later. Our king remains behind the ban’dinoriel, and Lor’themar and myself, as the only members of the Convocation here, must speak for our people. I know for a fact that Kael’thas remains within the ban’dinoriel, and the Grand Magister is within Silvermoon. I do not know anything about what happened to High Priest Everpost or General Borel. I can only hope they survived the attack. Until we learn more, I am one of our people’s leaders, and I will have to rely on those I trust, as well as my family. I don’t have my sisters to rely on. Not right now. I hope you’re ready to get to work.”
Gil smiles. “This is what I signed up for.”
Sylvanas: “At this rate I won’t be surprised if you can make your way to the rank of ranger before long. I should see to the rest of our people. I suggest you take care of anything you need to before myself and the other ranger-captains put you to work, but a daresay you’ve earned a moment’s respite.”
They part ways.
Before long, Vel finds her brother. She informs him that she spoke with Meryl, and gives him the gist and that they need to gather the people invested. Gil tells her he can get Vincent if she can get Uther, and there’s an apprehensive pause before she agrees. Gil picks up on it and says that he can get Uther.
Shortly, everyone is gathered in Valeera’s room, including Jaina and Remnii, as well as Meryl.
Meryl informs them that he was informed of what happened, and there is some insight he can provide in regards to what Valeera had been subjected to.
Valeera: “You know what happened to me? What this is?”
Meryl: “I do. As a matter of fact, it’s something I feared would happen. The entity you are wrestling with is an old enemy of mine. His name is Kathra'natir.”
Valeera winces, and Meryl confirms that the name would cause her physical pain, and that she should use it as little as possible.
He explains that an old friend of his had locked him away. “The beast you are struggling with is a nathrezim, or what is known as a Dreadlord.”
Meryl continues to explain that his friend Alodi, the first guardian, had imprisoned him so that his spirit could not plague anyone. However, it appears that he had once again escaped. Meryl had feared such a thing would happen.
Meryl: “Oh. Of course. Manners. My name is Meryl Winterstorm. I know most of you, of course, through reputation or story… not you though.”
He looks up at Remnii.
Meryl: “But I have heard strange rumors about a traveler from afar. I trust that’s you.”
Remnii introduces herself, and Meryl said that he would have to speak with her later.
Meryl: “As many of you may have discovered, I am one of the original 100 humans that was selected to learn magic. I was friends with the first Guardian, and, well, ultimately I suppose my presence here may be a bit curious considering that was over 1000 years ago. However, I cannot divulge anything in that regard, as I do not understand that myself.”
Jaina: “Wait. You were truly one of the first 100 humans to learn magic?”
Meryl: “Yes. That is what I said.”
Jaina: “And you’ve been alive this whole time?”
Meryl: “Well, no. Not strictly speaking, no. But I have been here. Once again, I cannot explain it. But lady Jaina, I’m sure you’re a more accomplished mage than myself. I’ve had time, but magic has never come naturally to me. So, I should perhaps be asking you questions.”
Jaina is a bit flabbergasted by the compliment.
Meryl turns back to Valeera and he closes his eyes as he channels magic. “It’s as I fear. The dreadlord’s presence has embedded itself into your soul. There is no easy way to remove it. The only things that could potentially work… well one would be uncomfortable, and the other requires resources beyond what we have access to.”
Valeera asks what the first one is, and Meryl said that he would have to kill her. Which isn’t wise, and ultimately the dreadlord would still be present--and someone else would be offered up as the next hope. However, there is no guarantee that Valeera could be brought back. He also suspects she would be against the idea.
Valeera quiets and looks at her hands for a moment.
Meryl: “Don’t lose hope yet. I wasn’t finished describing the situation. I cannot do anything, but someone with sufficient power, strength, and command over the arcane may be able to.”
Jaina: “Unfortunately, archmage Khadgar has been trapped behind the ban’dinoriel.”
Meryl: “I’m not speaking of Khadgar, girl. I’m speaking of the guardian. Medivh. As you know, he’s been missing for a while now. A problem I’ve been trying to alleviate. For the time being, I can help you, girl. I cannot remove Kathra'natir from your soul, but I can give you some strength. But it’s not infallible. If you let your guard drop, for every inch you give, he will take a mile.”
Valeera: “I do. I have no intention to let this monster take my body, or whatever it is he is trying to do.”
Meryl: “He will take more than your body, child.”
He hands Valeera a small container with a cork stopper. “You will want to drink this. Well. You won’t want to, but you have to.”
Valeera: “What do you mean?”
She uncorks it, and there is a pungent odor that makes her nose wrinkle. She kicks it back, and mentions that it’s quite foul.
Meryl: “I didn’t imagine you’d like it. That alone won’t help you. You’ll have to drink the tea periodically. I can leave the recipe. I don’t suppose any of you are an alchemist?”
There’s some hesitation, and Jaina suggests that there are some royal alchemists. Meryl looks over to the rest of the group, and Vel provides that she’s learning. He says that will have to do, and he hands it to her.
Vel looks over the recipe and sees several… surprising regents, including demon blood mixed with holy water.
He goes to leave, and Jaina asks him to wait for a moment, but he said that he doesn’t have time, and truthfully, he’s not a very interesting man. He taps his staff on the wall, and another one of the doors appears. Vel sees the same room beyond the door she saw before. As he enters the door and closes it, the door disappears.
The last thing they hear from him is him just muttering, “the people of this age.”
Gil: “Well, glad he has ebonchill at least.”
Jaina: “Wait. That’s Ebonchill?”
Jaina starts to fangirl a bit. She’s amazed, and even more adamant about speaking with Meryl again in the future.
Gil comments that he’s never seen her so passionate about something, and she’s unsure as to whether to take it as a compliment or an insult. But she laughs it off.
Jaina asks Valeera how she’s feeling, and it seems that color is starting to return to her skin and hair. She says she feels a lot better, and she rises from the bed.
Valeera: “You’re going to need my help, and I don’t want to sit here like some sort of invalid. Silvermoon was my home too, even if I didn’t have anyone there. I’m not going to just sit around just because some stupid demon wants to take my body.”
Jaina: “I think everyone can agree that you have as much right to fight as everyone else. But until we can get an okay from the doctors and the priests, you aren’t going anywhere. But we will try to make sure you can. It’s the least we can do for you.”
Valeera pouts. “Can I at least have my weapons back. I don’t want to get rusty.”
She looks at Vincent.
Vincent: “Yeah. I have them. You have to find them.”
Valeera raises an eyebrow. Vincent rolls his eyes.
Vincent: “They are in the drawer.”
Valeera playfully shoves Vincent out of the way and flips her daggers around when she retrieves them. “You know, being seperated from these doesn’t feel great, but it’s good to have them back. I’m gonna get better so I can help you. And honestly, if the priests try to tell me I can’t leave, I probably will anyways.”
Uther: “Well, at least you’re honest. We’ll get you out of here.”
Valeera sits back on the bed, and they hear her stomach growl. “Well. I guess my appetite has returned as well.”
They start to disperse, and Vel catches Jaina outside. “I asked him. He didn’t know.”
Jaina: “Heh. Figures. I guess this mystery goes deeper.”
At some point, Jaina approaches Remnii expressing that there may be a possibility in the future, if he would like, for Raluhi to take over as Uther’s tutor as Velameestra had to step away. Maybe after he learns common and studies some in Dalaran.
Remnii is also sitting in on some lessons with Uther’s youngest sister, Lianne. Such also provided an opportunity for Lianne to start teaching Remnii, as it was important for Lianne to start to learn how to teach as well.
One day, when Lianne comes in, she waves. She’s taken to sticking her tongue out at Remnii playfully to ask if she has tongues up. Remnii shakes her head and, in common, says “No.”
Lianne laughs and Remnii is able to make out “good morning” as well as “pretty”. However, as she comes up, something catches Remnii’s eye.
She’s wearing a necklace.
The necklace looks very familiar.
The necklace has been altered slightly at the ends, but at one point might have been a headband. A familiar headband.
Remnii almost backpedals out of her chair and stands.
Remnii: “Lianne!”
She looks more alarmed than anything else.
Lianne instinctively steps back, a hand on her mouth, looking confused. Remnii casts tongues.
Remnii: “Lianne. Where did you get that?”
She points at the necklace.
Lianne: “Oh this? My brother gave it to me. It fell out of the sky you see. Stars have a significance to me, you see, because a star flew overhead when I was born, you see. And it saved my brother’s life.”
Remnii holds her hands out in front of Lianne for a moment.
Lianne: “Do you like it?”
Remnii: “Lianne. May I… may I see this for a moment, please?”
Lianne: “I guess.”
Remnii: “I will explain to you if I’m perhaps not a little bit too homesick.”
Lianne hands it to her.
Remnii: “Humor me.”
Remnii turns it around and sticks it on her head.
Lianne: “Wow. That fits really well. That’s weird.”
Remnii covers her face for a moment. “Lianne. I’m sorry. I’m… but…” She sets the headband back down on the table. “I don’t know what else you know about this, but, in my time on Draenor, I sent something home, wherever my people are, that’s how I knew they were here. And to prove it was me, I, well, sent one of the only important material objects I had kept with me. I… the thing that I sent was a headband.”
Lianne looks down at the necklace. “That was yours?”
Remnii: “And, I believe I may need to find Uther and ask him before I can confirm. Because if this is here, something else is. If that is the case, yes. And it’s… one of the only things I have of my mother’s.”
Remnii picks up the chair and sits again, running a hand through her hair.
Lianne furrows her brow and storms over to Remnii. She picks up the headband and Remnii feels it slide back into place on her head.
Lianne smiles. “You said that it was yours, right?”
Remnii: “There is a high likelihood that… yes.”
Lianne: “Well it fits perfectly, and it might even look better on you than on me. And if it’s something you had from your mother, then you should keep it. I have more jewelry. I’ll just have to make sure my big brother buys me something else to make up for it. And. I’m a princess, so you have to listen to me.”
Remnii: “Well sometime. I don’t know if it’s true… well, regardless. I… thank you, Lianne.”
She opens her arms, and Lianne comes over and gives her a hug.
Lianne: “You saved my brother twice now. He puts himself in danger a lot, and I won’t be able to protect him. But the people who can are some of the best people I met. If the Light brought you to watch over my brother like some sort of guardian angel, then I think you should look cute doing it.”
Remnii: “Thank you, Lianne. The headband has survived much, and it’s been a necklace too. And I kept some stones from Draenor, and perhaps if there is time, I can make you something too.”
Lianne: “Well, I won’t say no to a gift of gratitude.”
Remnii: “And, well… perhaps my father would disagree, but your mother and Uther may agree that I might qualify as a princess. But. I think I might need to put a hold on the lesson. There’s something I need to speak with Uther about right away.”
Lianne: “Alright. I’ll have to ask the tutor.”
The tutor sighs. Remnii offers a small bow.
Tutor: “You are excused, Ms. Remnii. It’s fine.”
Remnii continues to babble about that she will be back, and she runs to find Uther.
Lianne: “As long as when you get back, you need to let me try to get you to join my princess friends. Tell my big brother I said hi!”
Earlier that morning, Uther had heard that his father had requested his presence near the royal stables.
Radiant had already been brought out of the stables, and Indomitable was also saddled up and ready. Arthas was wearing simple riding garb.
Arthas: “Uther! You made it.”
Uther: “As you commanded, father.”
Arthas: “Did they make it sound like a command? I was hoping for a simple request, but everything is a command from a king I guess. I think it will be good for us to get Radiant and wIndomitable some exercise.”
They set off, hearing the hooves of the horses crunch through the leaves. At one point they race, and Uther charges ahead, beating him.
Arthas: “Well it seems like I’ve been growing fat on the throne. I need to take Indomitable out more frequently.”
Uther: “I wouldn’t worry about it, father. Radiant has had lots of exercise in the last few years.”
Arthas’s smile fades as they continue trotting.
Arthas: “I feel we’re all about to get a lot more exercise.”
Uther: “I’m inclined to agree.”
As they continue, Uther looks past his father. They are at the grave site of Invincible. Arthas slows his trot. He reaches into Indomitable’s saddle, and rolls the apple on the ground. It stops right next to the grave.
Arthas: “Son. I.. wanted to talk to you about a few things.”
Uther: “I had an idea that you might.”
Arthas: “Uther.. I’m more proud of you than anything I could ever convey. But… a couple of weeks ago, when I saw you lying in a pool of your own blood, when I thought I would have to bury my own son… all that I knew was fear. Terror. I was… I was paralyzed. I couldn’t move. Every moment I had ever spent with you, with my own father, with your namesake, it all smacked me like a hammer to the gut. I thought I had come to terms with this. Of the possibility that the unexpected could happen. I’d faced it many times when I became a paladin myself. When I heard news my father had been assassinated, and when you had said those words at the beginning of the summer. When you had become a knight. I’d convinced myself that the Light would protect you. I’m certain that it will.”
Uther: “In a manner of speaking, it did.”
Arthas: “You are not wrong. But as a shadow begins to spread itself across our neighbors, slowly reaching its way to our own lands, I suppose a part of me is afraid that… the Light protects. But the Light is not infallible.”
Arthas had kneeled next to the grave, and he now stands and turns back to Uther. There is fear and pride on it.
Arthas: “Uther, you are my only son. You know that I love you and your sisters more than anything, and I will never stop you from doing what is just. I will never stop you for standing up for the weak, and fulfilling the words you and I both shared. But that… that will never stop me from fearing. From being afraid of what might happen along the way. I guess we both have a lot of learning to do. You about what it means to be a king and a leader of your people, and myself about what it is to fear. What it is to be powerless. As the world changes around me.”
He puts a hand on Uther’s shoulder.
Arthas: “Someday, my son. Someday you will have to lead our people. And I won’t be here to take rides across the countryside and offer what safely wisdom I can give you from my mentors. And I hope that everything that happened up until now can prepare you for that. Including death. Something that no one should ever have to face twice.”
Uther has been looking at Invincible’s grave. He looks up.
Uther: “It was terrible, father. I’ve never heard mother cry like that. Not even close. And… thinking about the pain that it would have caused her, and you, and Ashwynn and Lianne, and… Gil and Vel… Marwyn, Falric, everyone. I don’t ever want to be responsible for that kind of pain. And I know there is much expected of me in leading our people. But father, what would you have done?”
Arthas laughs and smirks. “The exact same thing. I know that.”
Uther starts to cry and hugs Arthas. He holds Uther close.
Arthas: “I knew it. Jaina knew it. Everyone knows exactly what I would have done. That’s why I’m not here to yell, I’m not here to do anything but tell you that I’m proud of you. But lets do everything we can to make sure that your mother never has to cry like that again. And your sisters, and everyone that relies on you, including myself. That none of us have to go through that again. The paradox of being a protector of the innocent, one that you and I both need to come to terms with, one that we will perhaps never find the answer for. You and I… the people look up to us like titans. Indestructible paragons of justice, and wise rulers, but no one is truly invincible.”
Arthas pulls back from the hug.
Arthas: “Hmph. We should probably get back. I have a feeling that if Ashwynn and Falric have to spend much more time without us in their sight, they may get antsy. But I don’t think they will be too mad about us taking the long way back.”
When they get back, lo and behold, they find Ashwynn. Arthas makes a joke to Uther and gestures in her direction. “See, I told you.”
However, Remnii is with her as well.
Ashwynn: “Uther, there you are. Ms. Remnii was searching for you. She has something that she wishes to speak with you about.”
Uther: “Oh? How can I be of assistance?”
Remnii takes Lianne’s necklace off her head. “Uther. Where is A’dal?”
Uther: “A’dal?”
Remnii: “The crystal that was sent with this.”
Uther’s eyes widen. “We’ll head to the chapel.”
Ashwynn: “Do you need me to accompany you?”
Remnii: “Whatever you see best. I don’t mean to take up more of your time.”
Ashwynn: “I will accompany you as far as the cathedral. It wouldn’t do for you to get lost.”
As they head, they note that elven refugees are still around everywhere.
On the way there, in the carriage, Remnii leans forward toward Uther. She explains the situation with the headband to Uther. She also explains that her people had received the message she sent that A’dal was coming, so this means that A’dal never arrived.
Uther: “And you’re certain your people is on Azeroth?”
Remnii confirms.
Remnii: “But also, Uther, I did want to touch on something with you. I did want to address that I intend to keep talk of the Army of Light in close quarters at the moment. I owe your family much, and I needed to be candid with someone. I… my people have seen a great deal of hardship in the last few hundred years, and a piece of what you saw in Quel’thalas is something we have seen over and over again. I believe my father will know the right thing to do, and the draenei will be able to rally, but I don’t want to start selling words out of his mouth when I am the only one here. Does that make sense?”
Uther: “Of course. As a princeling myself, I must also be careful of the words I choose and the promises I make.”
Remnii: “While what I say is true, carry that with you quietly, for now. If you can humor me after telling you something so big. I want to make that clear…”
Uther: “Of course.”
Remnii: “Thank you. To even get the army off the ground here, I will have to count on you. So I look forward to working together.”
Remnii touches Uther’s hand, and Uther clasps her hand in turn.
Uther: “I’m sure every culture makes this claim, but we’re fighters, Remnii, and we’re going to fight, regardless of promises of otherworldly armies--friend or foe. I will continue to fight.”
Remnii: “Well joking included, that may be the first time anyone has ever called me fighter.”
Uther: “Perhaps not the most appropriate term. But if not a fighter, at least a survivor.”
Remnii: “Perhaps something between. But thank you again.”
They stop in front of the massive Cathedral of the Holy Light. The three of them disembark, and Ashwynn adds: “Before we leave, I think it fitting to mention, that as my future king, Uther’s word is my word. Now ensure you keep your head down. It would be wise to keep sightings of you at a minimum.”
The Cathedral has some people, but it’s not particularly busy. As they continue into the back, the Bishop and Confessor, Eileen Paletress, approaches.
Eileen: “Your highness. It’s a pleasure. How may I help you and your… strange traveling companion.”
Uther: “It is of great importance that we see the crystal.”
Eileen: “I see. And might I ask who you are traveling with.”
Remnii downs her cowl. “My apologies for the… sudden visit. My name is Remnii. I… I am familiar with the…”
Eileen: “You must be the far traveler. It’s a pleasure. My name is Eileen Paletress, I’m one of the bishops here. I’ve been stationed in Lordaeron to help with the refugee crisis.”
Pleasantries are exchanged, and Remnii mentioned she would like to hear more about the religion as she is, too, a priestess. Eileen agrees a further talk would be mutually beneficial.
Eileen informs them that bishop Seline is down below, and will likely welcome them at the crystal.
They head down, and there’s a woman stationed at a desk. There are papers all over the place. She has chestnut brown hair, and darker skin. She looks over them, and they see that her eyes are a beautiful bright violet.
Natalie Seline: “Well, if it is not the prince of Lordaeron himself. Apologies for not formally introducing myself. It’s a pleasure to meet you, and you as well… though I suppose more questions may have risen with your presence here.”
Remnii smiles and introduces herself.
Natalie: “I had heard of some interesting things at the castle. My name is Natalie Seline. I’ve been called from Stormwind to investigate our curious friend here.”
She gestures at the large crystal magically suspended in the center of the room. The crystal is a shimmering purple, though slivers of white still poke through. He seems better than he was, but not by a lot.
Remnii: “By the Light. It’s better.”
Uther: “Better?”
Remnii moves to approach the crystal, then stops.
Remnii: “I… um… Bishop Seline.”
Natalie tells her that Natalie is fine. She’s less concerned with titles, and more concerned with what Remnii seems to be concerned with. She observes Remnii has a familiarity.
Remnii asks if she can approach, and Natalie confirms she can, though she should be careful. A’dal was a creation of both Light and Shadow, and Shadow was something that should be dealt with carefully.
Remnii: “One cannot exist without the other.”
There is a crack of a smile on Natalie’s face at that.
Remnii walks around the crystal.
Natalie: “I trust you’ve been informed of the circumstances that lead for us to encounter A’dal.”
Remnii: “I’m familiar, yes. From the Great Dark Beyond. I may… if you would not mind, checking in.”
Natalie as a bemused look, and she holds her hands up with a look of “don’t let me stop you.”
Natalie: “If the high prince of Loraderon trusts you, I am not one to prevent you from looking into this further. If there is any insight that you could reveal, I am more than happy to listen.”
Remnii: “I will see how the communion goes.”
Natalie: “Fear not. If this goes poorly, I am here to resuscitate you.”
Uther: “Is there anything I can do to assist?”
Remnii: “Perhaps. The last time I saw A’dal, it was completely darkened. While I cannot say for certain I do believe the pinpoints of light are a very good sign.”
Remnii sits beneath A’dal and casts divination. She begins to focus, questions forming on her mind.
Is A’dal recovering?
She knows that in its current state, A’dal is slowly recovering. As long as their core exists, a naaru will switch between Light and Shadow and reform. She doesn’t know how long it would take, but he would recover.
Has the Evergrowth affected A’dal permanently?
No. There were no lingering effects.
How can we help you?
The answer is more indistinct. It’s just a warmth that Remnii can feel within herself. She can’t say if it’s familiarity or recognition, or if it’s the desire of what it was. There’s a faint chiming, as if it was breathing. Ultimately, it seems there is nothing.
Remnii comes out of the divination with a serene smile, but she casts it one more time.
Are you darkening or lightening?
She feels that he seems to be shifting to light. It isn’t clear why, but he is.
Do you know where O’ros or the prophet Velen crashed?
She feels that he has no other way of finding them, and it is beyond the knowledge it has accumulated.
What do you know of Azeroth?
There is just the feeling of tremendous importance. In the cosmic scheme of a novel, Azeroth would be a climax.
Natalie: “Anything?”
Remnii: “Some, yes.”
Natalie: “You have not been struck by shadow magic, so it must have gone well.”
Remnii: “A’dal is… recovering.”
Natalie: “You mentioned this was a creature of light struggling in darkness. Is it now shedding that darkness, like a snake of some kind?”
Remnii: “Hopefully.”
Natalie: “Interesting.”
Remnii: “That said, if a being of pure light can also be touched by shadow, I would wager that it can be in both between, much like A’dal is now.”
Natalie: “I would be curious to see if there’s a way to speed his recovery. Some way to strip the shadow off. Perhaps not immediately, but worth looking into. There’s been no progress when trying to interface with him, but it could possible… well, while Light chases shadows, other shadows draws it to them. Historically there may be some things of interest. I will research into them and see if it can help.”
Remnii: “Something I would watch. If those light points go away, that would likely mean… I asked if it was lightening or darkening, while I got the confirmation of lightning, I would still be careful. Something that powerful with shadow magic should not be trifled with.”
Natalie: “Certainly not. And we would like to avoid the incidents from elsewhere. If it could be turning into an entity of darkness, I will be keeping an eye on it. There’s much to learn.”
Remnii: “I know there is. That said, the last tidbit I can leave. I was going to commune with him. He has a pronoun.”
Natalie: “I will be sure to speak with him more directly.”
Remnii: “The answers I received were rather cryptic, which is to be expected from a sentient crystal.”
Natalie: “Well said. It was a privilege, Miss Remnii, watching a peculiar creature such as yourself using magic like ours.”
Remnii: “I’m called a draenei.”
They continue to exchange some words, and Remnii mentioned that she was interested in learning from the church in the future. And she would like to spend some time here as well.
Natalie explains that, in the future, Remnii would need a number of sponsors. Natalie expressed that she would like to learn from Remnii as much as she could teach.
Remnii: “I have not been an acolyte in a few hundred years, but I’m excited to learn.”
Natalie: “I will have to hope my training is not dwarved by your own, Miss Remnii.”
Remnii: “Every faith has character and wisdom to itself, so I look forward to learning from you, Natalie.”
Natalie offers her a hand, and then turns to Uther to thank him as well.
Remnii: “Uther, you’ve done more than you realized. To see A’dal again in a better state is… good.”
Natalie informs them she will be where they can find them. She gestures to a bedroll and a half finished lunch.
Remnii mentions that the answer to “can we help you?” that Uther had wondered is simply the sound of chimes and warmth. It’s to have patience, and to continue to bear the Light in your heart, soul, and actions.
Remnii and Natalie agree to compare their notes in the future, and Remnii asks Uther if he had to pull a favor.
Uther comments it’s a “...symbiotic relationship with myself and the church.”
They part ways, and Uther and Remnii head back to the keep.
Throughout all the time, Vincent has time to prepare for the assignment he received. A few weeks in, before individuals start to leave, another missive comes for him.
He opens it.
“Agent Vincent Nightwhisper, thje undersigned orders are for you to execute as soon as possible. As you were informed, the representatives of many kingdoms are heading to the border of the East Weald and Quel’thalas. While the first part of your order is as naturally, the second portion is that you are to travel to Alterac alongside Prince Victor. You are to ensure his safety, and ensure that he sees the dangers that are laid bare before him.”
He is to present himself as Vincent Nightwhisper of SI7 to Victor.
At some point, Vincent disappears without a goodbye to take on his new assignment.
He makes his way toward Alterac. He makes quick passage across the lake, and starts to head toward the mountains. The terrain is unforgiving and harsh, but it’s fortunately not quite winter.
Finally, after the long road leads him to Alterac, Vincent sees the castles here are much different than in Lordaeron. The city of Alterac looks as harsh and unforgiving as the land itself. There are thick grey stones built into the sides of the mountains.
As Vincent enters through the gate, he makes his way to the castle. The guards, the standard plain on their uniform, ask Vincent what his business is. Vincent informs them he is here on behalf of business of Stormwind.
Vincent produces his badge and his letter, and they immediately lead him in.
Vincent passes through thick, torchlit halls. Everything is very sparsely decorated. He is led to the prince’s chambers. There are a few servants around. One is bent down and is trying to peek through the keyhole. Two others are giggling, and they are trying to take a peek.
The guard clears his throat, and the servants immediately turn, laugh, and skitter off. The guard rolls his eyes, and knocks on Victor’s door.
Victor: “Ah. Is it another adoring fan? I’m still garbing myself, you see.”
Guard: “Of course, sir. At your convenience.”
A few moments later, the door opens. There is still some steam that issues its way off the freshly bathed prince. He is effectively wearing trousers, but has an unbuttoned tunic. He looks down at Vincent.
Victor: “Ah. And who might you be?”
Vincent: “One of your adoring fans.”
Victor: “Well I do sign autographs if that’s what you’re curious about. Do you have something to write on?”
Vincent: “Of course.”
Vincent hands him the letter, and he reads it. “Ah. Right then. We will get to be good friends, it would seem.”
And he totally signs.
Victor informs him that he will be leaving in a few hours, along with a skilled contingent of knights. Queen Calia would be traveling with them as well, as she would like to assess the situation personally. His father was attending to other issues.
Vincent informs him that he will be disguising himself, and asks if there are “any preferences.” Victor counters that if he smiled more, it would be nice, and he would look nice with dark brown hair, but of course, he was a bit biased.
Victor then heads off to saddle up his horse. Calia also appears later, garbed in thick cloaks. She asks Victor if he has everything he needs. Victor confirms.
He also introduces Vincent to his mother, and they exchange some pleasantries. She had heard a great deal about SI7, but she had not dealt with them personally.
They head off.
There is one person that Vincent notices amidst the camp followers that draws his attention. She’s a young human with short curly hair. However, as he looks at her a bit, he has a strong feeling she is wearing a wig.
Vincent approaches, and she asks if she can help him. Vincent said he was just getting to know the people following them.
Girl: “Well, how are you looking to get to know people? Some ladies may misinterpret.”
Vincent: “Good conversation, I guess. Not much like the prince, unfortunately.”
Girl: “You’ve been tight with him.”
Vincent: “Yeah, comes with the job.”
Girl: “You some sort of bodyguard?”
Vincent: “Mercenary.”
Girl: “I’m not surprised to hear that.”
Vincent: “What. Is he a fan of mercenaries?”
Girl: “He’s a fan of a lot of folk.”
Vincent: “Ladies like yourself?”
Girl: “Oh. No. I find I get along with folk more like you.”
Vincent: “And what do you mean by that?”
Girl: “You don’t need to play coy. You ain’t no mercenary boy, and I’m not no camp follower. Let me ask. SI7? Shot in the dark.”
Vincent: “Good guess.”
Girl: “I know things about a lot of things. If you’re worried, you don’t have any right to be.”
Vincent: “It’s my job. Never hurts to be cautious.”
Girl: “No. But you don’t need to worry about me. I’m just keeping an eye on things, but it looks like that’s being taken care of.”
Vincent: “Yeah. So you might want to move that slightly to the right.” He points to the wig. “It’s off.”
The girl laughs, and she throws the wig in the fire. “I don’t think I’ll need this anymore. After all, if you found me, then clearly I have work to do.” She has black hair.
Vincent: “Yeah. You do.”
Girl: “This has been fun. So what’s your name, kid? Your real name, preferably.”
Vincent: “Maybe in time I’ll tell you.”
Girl: “Do you know who you are?”
Vincent: “Me personally? No.”
Girl: “I had a feeling.”
Vincent: “No name. Just a spy.”
Girl: “You know you really have to stop. I have a terrible for weakness for men with a tragic past.”
Vincent: “Right.”
Girl: “I don’t have reason to follow much more. I do have something important to check up on. And if you decide who you are, come find me.”
Vincent: “I’ll keep that in mind.”
Girl: “I’d love to hear what that is.”
The girl smiles and watches Vincent leave. She’s nowhere to be found the next morning.
Gil, meanwhile, had been doing whatever he could to help. One particularly rainy day, he’s heading from one location to another. It takes him through the gardens in the courtyard, and he sees Elissa. She’s been busy doing what she could to help, but right now, Gil sees her without an umbrella. There is a tablet nearby, and she’s just laying on the ground looking up.
Gil: “Enjoying the rain?”
Elissa: “Oh, hey Gil! I was enjoying the overcast lighting. I was trying to learn with charcoal, but, well…” She points at the tablet. “I should have been paying more attention to the weather.”
She hops up. “Are you alright? A lot’s happened, and, well if we’re walking in the rain, might as well keep doing it.”
Gil: “I think I’m as good as could be reasonably expected.”
Elissa: “I don’t know what’s to happen in the months to come, but I want to fight for your people too. I’m glad I’ve learned as much as I have. I can read pretty well now. I’ve been trying to show off when I could. I want to make Uther proud, and I’m going to do that. I want to protect your people, and Last Crossing is close to the border. My friends and family will be in danger too, but that’s not even it. So I just want to know that you still have friends, okay? In times like this it’s easy to forget that.”
She grabs Gil’s hand and drags him along. “Come on. Maybe this will cheer you up.”
She leads Gil to a corner in the garden. “Here Uther and I planted this before he had to leave. But look, it’s starting to sprout.”
As Gil heads over, he sees a small sapling of a tree. It’s very small, no more than two feet tall. But there are two little, tiny red leaves on it.
Elissa: “Look, we started growing it only a few months ago, but look how big it is. I’ve never seen leaves like that.”
Gil’s jaw drops. “Where did you get that seed?”
Elissa: “The seed? Uther said he was given it at the festival. I didn’t ask too much, but.”
Gil: “Do you know where Uther is right now?”
Elissa: “Probably at the castle somewhere. Come on, lets go find him. You look like there’s something you want to talk to him about.”
Gil: “You’re completely right.”
They find Uther at the castle.
Uther: “Ah, yes, come in.”
Elissa: “Sorry, we’re a little wet. I ran into Gil in the garden and we saw the plant. He wanted to ask you about it.”
Uther raises an eyebrow.
Gil: “Where did you find that seed?”
Uther: “It was Falstaad of the Wildhammer. He was quite… um, cryptic, and he said there was more to that seed than meets the eye. What’s so strange about that sproutling, Gil?”
Gil looks like he’s thinking.
Gil: “Um… do you know what that plant is?”
Uther: “Do I know what?”
Gil: “Do you know what the plant is?”
Uther: “I’m afraid between Vel’s lessons and prayers, I haven’t been able to check up on my botany.”
Gil: “It’s called a Vermillion Dragonleaf tree.”
Uther: “Impressive name.”
Gil: “Do you remember the leaves in Borel’s drawer that Vel had.”
Uther: “Yes, did the seed come from the same tree?”
Gil: “Yes.”
Uther: “Interesting.”
Gil: “And you said Falstaad gave that to you?”
Uther: “Indeed. At the festival.”
Gil: “I… need to contact a dwarf.”
Elissa: “I believe he and the rest of the dwarves left a while ago. Back before you guys left. So what does this mean? I guess I’m still confused. Probably because I wasn’t there to help.”
Gil frowns. “You don’t think you’re in any way responsible, do you?”
Elissa: “No no. Sorry, I didn’t mean to make this about me, I just wish I was able to help more. And I want to help more. This time. Whenever you have to go, Uther. I want to go with. I want to go back home.”
Uther: “I wouldn’t have it any other way, Elissa.”
Elissa gives a sigh of relief. “But what about these trees and dwarves. Why do you need to find them?”
Gil hesitates for a second. “Because if I can find them, I can possibly get in contact with the red dragons.”
Uther: “That’s quite the claim. What can I do to help?”
Gil: “If Falstaad had one of those seeds, he may have some sort of connection to them.”
Uther: “Unfortunately I can’t speak to that, but. If there are red dragons as potential allies…”
Uther gets a sad look on his face. “Gil. I know that your people need you. But. I don’t know anyone else better suited to secure such an alliance. As always, your decisions are yours to make, but should you decide that you wish to go, I will do whatever I can to precure you an expedient journey to Aerie Peaks as I can.”
Gil: “You know, with that kind of wording, I’d almost think you knew something.”
Uther: “What I know is no one else has given much thought to the red dragons at all. But. Between your interest in this sproutling… I may be grasping at straws, but we both saw what we are up against. To attempt to claim any advantage we could against this threat.”
Gil nods. “It actually isn’t quite the shot in the dark that it sounds.”
Uther: “I absolutely trust your judgement.”
Gil: “Well I should reward faith in me, with faith in you. You never really seemed to question the fact I was exhibiting more magic ability.”
Uther: “It didn’t escape my notice, but I assumed you had reasons. And if there was a reason for me to know, you’d tell me.”
Gil: “The dragon we saw at Silvermoon was Borel.”
Uther: “That… was… but Borel was… so Borel can turn into a dragon?”
Elissa: “Who’s Borel, exactly?”
Gil: “Borel Skyfire was one of the leaders of the Convocation of Silvermoon.”
Uther: “Right a dedicated servant of your people, and he has the ability to turn into a dragon?”
Gil: “It’s more a dragon has the ability to turn into an elf.”
Uther: “So for however many hundreds, thousands of years… that Borel Skyfire…. He was a red dragon? Masquerading as a high elf?”
Elissa: “They can do that?”
Gil: “They can, they do, and they have.”
Uther: “That’s quite the knowledge to digest. So dragons can just take the form of… regular folk?”
Gil: “Explains how they hide so well given no one knows they can do that.”
Elissa: “Well can they all do that? Or just the really strong ones? Because that one sounded pretty big.”
Gil: “From what I’ve seen, all the red ones can do it for sure.”
Elissa: “Well finding them won’t be easy.”
Uther: “So any person I met could be a dragon?”
Elissa: “I’m not a dragon I promise!”
Gil: “Do be fair, Vincent also disguises himself a lot.”
Uther: “True. But, well. Vincent changing his appearance… we’re talking about an entity the size of a building masquerading as an elf for thousands of years. Well. At the very least. It seems that red dragons and ourselves have a common foe. I believe this an endeavor worth pursuing.”
Elissa: “I agree!”
Uther: “Especially if you’ve had personal dealings with what I could only assume is a powerful one of their number.”
Gil: “So it turns out they have a queen. And Borel was Prime Consort.”
Elissa: “Does that mean that he was basically like a king?”
Gil: “He definitely seemed subservient to her.”
Elissa: “Well if you could find this queen, she must be real strong. I would offer to go with you, but I can’t. But I’ll help anyway I can. Also we probably don’t want to talk about this.”
Gil: “No. No one should ever know I told you.”
Elissa: “Well if there’s anything I can help with, just ask. I promise I’ll help.”
Gil: “Do you think your mother could get me there, Uther?”
Uther: “Perhaps, but she would want to know why.
Gil: “I think that’s a risk worth taking.”
Elissa: “Wait. Wait. So hear me out. I would never, ever contemplate the idea of not telling the full truth to your mother, the queen, her majesty, Queen Jaina, um… isn’t the Hinterlands where Rai and the other Darkspear are at? So. Well. What if you just used that as a cover. So that’s why you’re going there. Not to look for dragons. Not that I would ever endorse lying.”
They talk for a bit more, and Gil brings up Sylvanas. Uther says that she can’t say no if he doesn’t tell her.
They talk a bit longer, and Gil goes to talk to Sylvanas. He finds her starting to organize things together.
Sylvanas: “Gil. Good to see you. Things are starting to pick up, and we’re going to be moving out soon. I’ve been informed that there are individuals heading towards the east trying to make a barricade at the East Weald. I’ve already send word to Quel’lithien Lodge. Ranger Captain Hawkspear should be able to assist us. Last Crossing is likely going to be a staging ground for an offensive. I wanted to give you an opportunity to be one of the individuals that heads this vanguard. I know you’ve meet Ranger Captain Hawkspear before, and you’re familiar with the individual. There are other things you could do, but knowing you I thought it safe to give you this option first.”
Gil: “Can I speak with you privately?”
Sylvanas: “Of course.” She clears everyone from the tent. “What’s on your mind?”
Gil: “Two things. The first and much simpler. I wish to get in contact with the Darkspear trolls to see if I can get their help.”
Sylvanas: “I understand you owe them much, but they are still trolls. I’ve already tried to reach out to the ranger lodge nearby. I don’t know what we’re going to do with them yet. But you did have first hand experience with them. Is that what you would prefer to do? I could send you with a missive to the lodge.”
Gil nods. “But I’m going to be completely honest. There is the second thing as well.”
Sylvanas: “And what’s the second thing?”
Gil: “What I’m telling you must be confidential.”
Gil gives her a quick rundown with the meeting with Borel proper as who he actually is.
Sylvanas: “So you’re intending on me to believe that the leviathan that took to the skies and was shot down was General Borel Skyfire of the Guardians of the Eternal Spring.”
Gil: “I’ve never lied to you.”
Sylvanas: “And that Tyrannastrasz was the name he went by. That is quite the claim, Gilveradin, and I have no reason to distrust that is what you believe. But there’s more to this story, isn’t there?”
Gil tells her to the dragonleaf tree to Falstraad.
Sylvanas: “So you believe the Wildhammer clan is involved in this.”
Gil: “I think the reds might be living over there.”
Sylvanas: “This is… and you wish to chase this rumor?”
Gil: “We can use all the help we can get.”
Sylvanas: “You’re right. We can use all the help we can get. And that help needs to be consolidated. We do not have the time nor the manpower for you to run around Azeroth searching for rumors. If the dragons have hidden themselves in plain sight I do not believe they will reveal themselves even to you. Despite this pact you’ve made. Despite the assistance you’ve rendered. If they wish to make contact, if they wish to help, I will not turn it away, but everybody we can muster is invaluable. Our people are suffering. And there is no time to run around chasing dreams and legends.”
Gil: “Even just meeting with the Wildhammer dwarves themselves could be helpful.”
Sylvanas: “Which leads me… to what must be done next. You requested leave to visit Quel’danil lodge and assess the situation of the trolls there?”
Gil: “Yes Ranger General.”
Sylvanas: “Consider that request granted. Aerie Peak is nearby. While I’m not condoning you spending any time toward chasing these dreams, it would be wise to reach out to them and inform them of what has happened. But once you’ve concluded your work, I expect for you to report back. I will be on the front lines. Likely at Quel’lithien or at the Last Crossing. Regardless of what you discover, I expect for you to return there and not to chase after these dreams and this idea. Especially one we cannot know for certain would bear any root. Allow me to make something clear, Gilveradin. If you disobey this order, you will not do so as a farstrider. Do I make myself clear.”
Gil: “Yes Ranger-General.”
Sylvanas: “Good. May the wind be at your back and grant you swiftness. And remember Gilveradin. Remember the Sunwell and what we are fighting for.”
Gil then goes to speak with Jaina with Uther, and mentions that he was given leave to go to the Darkspear and Wildhammer dwarves. Uther asks if Jaina knows of an expedient way of getting him there. Jaina said there were no teleportation circles she was ware of. The closest she could get was Alterac, but he would still have to go through the mountains. It wouldn’t save him time.
Gil opts to take a ferry to Dalaran and meet with his sister.
In the meantime, Vel had traveled back to Dalaran. She heads through the city, heading toward Rhonin’s flat. There is laughter inside.
Vel knocks.
Rhonin opens the door. He is clearly drunk. He immediately hugs Vel, and he asks about her hair.
As she starts to explain, there is other commotion that interrupts her. Vel follows Rhonin inside, and Talath is also there, also drunk. He also comments on her hair, and they ask for updates about things going on.
Vel says that she can fill them in another day, unwilling to touch upon sensitive things when people are drunk.
Giramar and Galadin also seem to have each had a glass of alcohol, though the both of them aren’t drunk.
Talath apologizes for leaving Vel’s manor unattended, and he starts to get up to get ready to leave and head back, but Vel says that, if Rhonin is not opposed, they could just stay here for the night. Rhonin agrees. Talath, at this point, starts to drink water to sober up, though Rhonin remains drunk well into the night.
The next morning, Rhonin is nursing a hangover, and he pulls Vel aside, now having fully recognized what her white hair means. She confirms she pushed too far attempting to prevent the portal from opening, and she also tells Rhonin Vereesa is still trapped inside--though she promises that she will make contact with his wife whenever he wants her too.
They talk a bit more, and then Vel offers Rhonin it may be best for him and the boys to move in with her--it would perhaps free up the flat for some of the refugees, and it would allow them to stay in closer contact. Rhonin agrees it’s a good idea, and he’d start making arrangements to do so with the anticipation of moving in a week or so.
He then pulls Vel into a hug and says he missed her.
As Talath and Vel are heading home, Vel is mentally preparing to inform Talath that it’s likely his parents had died in the invasion. However, Talath catches her off-guard by saying “I know” before she can even begin to.
Unsure what else to do, and at a loss for any sort of verbal comfort, Vel hugs him, and he immediately hugs her tightly in return, explaining that he had received a letter from his parents that said they had gone to Silvermoon to bring him and a small cousin of his to the safety of Windrunner Village, but had heard from his previous mentor that he had moved in with Vel and started his own business. The letter had said they were very proud of him.
Talath had kept meaning to send them a letter informing them of the fact he had moved, but had never been able to put the right words to it and kept putting it off.
He buries his face in Vel’s shoulder for a moment, and Vel just hugs him tighter, before they seperate and continue home.
A week or two later, Vel heads to the study and opens up her thoughts to Kel’Thuzad.
KT: “I’m sorry, Velameestra, truthfully. But I want you to know I intend to assist you. But I need to reveal to you a number of things I’ve kept quiet from all but those I trust. Are you prepared?”
Vel: “At this point, yes?”
KT informs her that he needs her to perform a task. “Do you remember the compositions of the human form? You’ll find references throughout this study. Find them, and things will clarify themselves.”
Vel finds them reasonably quickly. When she finds the first passage and flipped to a page, she touches the passage. Something moves behind her. The stones on the floor begin to shift and move. As she finds the second one it happens again. Steadily, the stones are beginning to transform themselves into something circular.
It’s a teleportation circle.
KT: “What do you know of the Barov family?”
She knows the Barov family was once a very prestigious Loraderon family. They own a great deal of land, including Brill itself, and deeds to lands in Alterac as well. They are one of the most affluent families until more recent history. After the death of Lord Alexei Barov, the sons were squabbling over the fortune and spent it. They still hold things, but have been forced to sell some of their holdings to make do. The eldest child, the daughter, was one of the greatest and most talented illusionists in the Kirin Tor. Unfortunately, she passed away 15 years ago.
KT: “You’ve studied history well. But there is more. As there always is. Caer Darrow was a fortress miles from here on the edge of the Lordaeron border. It’s located on the small islet on Darrowmere lake. It’s been called cursed. The fortress built there has been destroyed countless times by wars. During the First Troll Wars, the Second Troll Wars, and many other conflicts. Whenever one lord or another would rebuild the fortress, it would fall again. The most recent time was shortly after the Barov family claimed it. This was a number of years before the Second Troll Wars. The traitorous Lord Perenald of Alterac… he allowed the trolls to enter into Alterac by opening up a path through Caer Darrow. Many were slain, and the fortress was destroyed. While Lord Alexei defended, they entered the keep and killed his wife. As luck would have it, his sons were not there, and though he was crippled and his wife killed, the others escaped the damage. Caer Darrow never recovered. In the years following, a famine plagued them, and terrible pox struck its way from the lowliest denizen to the highest. During that time, Jandice returned to her people, and she returned back to her father. Jandice unfortunately also was not immune to the disease. She succumbed to it.”
By this point, the teleportation circle finishes.
KT: “But that is as the history books say. The truth is different. Darker. While it is true that Jandice had returned, and she had become afflicted with this skin twisting pox, and though her life slipped through her fingers, I received a missive from her, at the behest of father. Jandice was a prized student of mine. She was very talented. And in more than just illusion.”
Bigglesworth comes slinking in, and he’s holding a small scroll. He drops it at Vel’s feet. It’s actually several scrolls.
KT: “I’ve been saving these for this moment, Velameestra.”
As Vel looks at them there are four scrolls of teleportation circle. Inside the innermost one is a drawing of another one.
Vel: “I take it this one is in Caer Darrow.”
KT: “Astute as ever. It belonged to Jandice. She had it installed within her own sanctum. If you would. There are things I would show you.”
Vel uses the scroll, and the magics ripple around her. The circle crackles to life, and a portal opens. She steps through the portal.
She’s in the middle of a noble room. It’s dark. There’s no light. There’s a comfortable bed. Vanities and a dozen mirrors. There are cobwebs and years of disuse.
It seems to be Jandice’s room. The teleportation circle is on the floor beneath her.
KT: “When lady Jandice summoned me it was out of desperation. Lord Alexei did not wish to lose his daughter or his people, as he did his wife. The priest of the Holy Light was unsuccessful in lifting the pox from her, and Jandice saw fit to inform her father that I may be able to do something where the priests had failed. So I came here to these halls. And Jandice was right. I was able to do something. But it was… not up to Lord Barov’s standards. “
As Vel looks around, she sees something. She had missed it initially, but as she looks at the vanity, a hairbrush had lifted itself. As it’s moving itself through the air, over the seat, a voice calls out.
Jandice: “Unfortunately my lord father was short-sighted. Which cost him his life.”
Slowly but surely a figure appears sitting in the chair, holding the hairbrush. She’s a beautiful woman. Young from appearances. Her body is transparent. There is no reflection in the mirror. She stands, almost gliding around toward her.
She smiles at Vel. “You must be the chairman’s newest student. A pleasure to meet you. My name is Jandice Barov. The lady of this house, and the chairman’s assistant.”
She holds her hand out and the brush returns to the vanity. “My lord father was not satisfied with what lord Kel’Thuzad was able to accomplish. But the pox did not claim me. Which is all that I really wanted. Ultimately, there were few things I feared than age. To grow old. Now I don’t have to worry about that anymore. But my father did not see the merits and took arms against Kel’Thuzad.”
KT: “I was of course forced to defend myself, though I had no desire to do so.”
Jandice: “Which led us to our current arrangement. It’s good to see you again, chairman.”
KT: “And you as well, my young friend.”
Jandice: “Have you come to show her around?”
KT: “I have. In time. But there is more to this story. More that will perhaps make sense upon seeing it. I had long sought for an answer for the discrimination of those curious about the magics that draw curiosities, and this encounter with Lord Alexei did nothing to alleviate my concern. The Kirin Tor has long condemned such studies. Blinding them to information that could save lives. So Jandice, brilliant as she ever is, offered a solution. After all, Caer Darrow was now without a lord, and Alexei’s sons had no desire to live in such a cursed place. So the two of us created something. A place of study. Away from the prying eyes of the Kirin Tor. A haven for those with curiosity.”
Kel’Thuzad moves forward, toward the door. Jandice glides her way across the floor. She looks at Vel with a smile.
Jandice: “We welcome you here now, Velameestra, if you would join our number.”
Vel agrees.
Jandice: “Then let me be the first to introduce you to Scholomance. Let me be the first to introduce you to our instructors and headmaster.”
As they pass outside, they can see the area outside.
Jandice: “I am, of course, one of the many instructors you could learn from. I was once a gifted illusionist, but more than that. I’d be happy to guide you, and I’m always looking for outside perspectives on dilemmas. One of which, chairman, I want to speak with you about. Have you felt it?”
Vel sees movement out of the corner of her eye. There’s a skeleton sweeping with a broom.
KT: “Felt what?”
Jandice: “A presence. Something has changed. Its north of here. A whisper on the wind.”
KT: “I have not. Keep an eye on that. Keep me apprised.”
Jandice: “Right. Where are my manners. Velameestra. We’ll start with the headmaster. He was once a hedge mage from the kingdom of Stratholme. Circumstances brought him to be known to the chairman, and now he’s the headmaster here.”
Inside the room is a stern-looking man. He is very much alive. He looks up.
Man: “Ah, Jandice. I see you have a new… student.”
Jandice: “That’s correct. Velameestra, let me introduce you to Ross Reòthadh.”
Ross: “Welcome to Scholomance. My condolences. I assure you that there are a number of our group have family and friends from up north. We don’t discriminate. Our strength is your strength.”
Jandice: “But we have many people to meet. Thank you, headmaster.”
Ras: “Right. If you need anything, let know.”
Around the rest of the Scholomance, Vel does see others. There is a morgue crossed with an infirmary. There is the sound of sawing.
Jandice: “And our resident doctor. If there any ailments that need to be addressed, Doctor Theolen Krastinov.
At the name, there’s a head and a mane of wild blonde and grey hair. He has red goggles over his face. “Whose this? A new student? Good to meet you. Theolen Krastinov. A pleasure to meet. If you ever require my assistance, please tell me. Apologies, I was unable to clean up before you arrived. But if you have any questions, please seek me out.”
They continue through, and a lumbering figure blocks the path. It’s a wight with a leathery jacket. It has a hand held out, and it keeps saying “Pass”.
Vel looks over at Jandice.
The creature says “hall pass” and she giggles.
Jandice: “Don’t worry, she’s with me.”
It lumbers on.
KT explains that it is a protection against students that try to seize power they are not prepared for. He also explains that Jandice is the only one that can see him, currently.
They head down to the a dark room with a haze of purple smoke. There’s a young elf leaving, and she bumps into Vel, apologizing, before heading off. Inside there is another elf, and she is leaning against a stone table. She has a pipe between her lips.
Elf: “I had a feeling we would have a new student. You must be the chairman’s new favorite. Instructor Malicia Shadebough.”
Velameestra: “Velameestra Windrunner.”
She muses that Windrunner is a big name, but not one that would have clout in Scholomance as everyone was equal there. However, she offers to help in whatever ways she can, and if there were people in Quel’thalas Vel wished to check on, she could try to do what she could.
They continue on, and they see another stern man. He is raising a number of skeletons and having them spar, citing that each creature has a weakness. Jandice explains he’s an expert on arcane magic, as well as disease and plague. How to counter it, and unleash it, while still maintaining control of course. His name is Vectus Rex.
They continue to the reliquary, and Vel sees a class in session. There are four students in a very vast area. A human woman is standing at the far end. She is concluding the class, and she informs them they are to take notes on any corruption effects that are felt.
Her eyes shoot up to Jandice, and she approaches. Asking for Vel’s name, Vel introduces herself. She in turn introduces herself as Anastacia Chillheart. She comments on Vel’s corruption, and notes that if managed correctly, it can be used as a tool.
Jandice continues, and explains there were only two others to meet. The next one is a master of necromancy, second to only the chairman. As she speaks, a student gets blasted out into a door. Jandice whispers to a skeleton, and the skeleton goes hobbling over to the doctor.
The man inside the office comments “waste of my time,” shadow magic still wreathing his hand. He introduces himself as Dominic Gandling, and he was not to be bothered unless it was worth his time. However, upon noting Vel, he comments that she may potentially have potential.
The last room is the Hall of Secrets, a hall of literature and scrolls of spells that may not be appreciated in places like the Kirin Tor.
“Oh. Is that a new student I spy?”
Almost a jarringly gentle-looking old woman rounds the corner, and she removes the spectacles she was wearing and gives a gentle smile. She said her name was Dorothy, the lorekeeper at Scholomance.
KT: “That is all of our instructors. As you can understand, it’s difficult to employ people here. However, there are other allies and friends. People we can count on. This is a safe place for things that you may wish to hide from others. That they may judge.”
Jandice: “And if you need, you’re more than welcome to use my quarters. I don’t need them after all. But consider it a home away from home. If I can ever do anything for you, let me know.”
And she disappears.
“Throughout history, many would claim that fate is unavoidable. However, many claim fate is preordained. It can’t be changed. Fucking lies. Aye fate is resistant to change, like a bloody river. But things can change the most obstinate things. First the smallest things. A stone in the river bed can change things, though it may not be obvious. The bends and curves aren’t going anywhere unless they want to, but even the smallest diversion can change the course, and 100 of them? Fuck. Rivers be constantly changing. Caves. Lakes. Those small changes. When that don’t work, you got to get bigger than a bloody river. It’s too big to change, and fate’s no fucking exception. So lets get fucking started, aye?”
The camera pans up.
