Appearing Characters: Alleria Windrunner, Arator Windrunner, Arthas Menethil, Darion Mograine, Elissa Cross, Garona Halforcen, Gilveradin Windrunner, Grommash Hellscream, Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil, Kael'thas Sunstrider, Liadrin Everpost, Lilian Voss, Lirath Windrunner, Maraad, Maxwell Tyrosus, Motah Tallhorn, Nazgrim, Raleigh, Remnii, Rhonin Windrunner, Riff, Robert Travard, Rommath Pyrewing, Sally Mograine, Samia Inkling, Teemo Manabrake, Thal'ena Dawnseeker, Turalyon Windrunner, Uther Menethil, Vaelastrasz, Velameestra Windrunner, Vereesa Windrunner, Victor Prestor, Zabra Hexx, Zagarra
November 1st (Early Morning)
The battle rolled to an end right after the stroke of midnight. There were no sounds of cheering, but the fighting had stopped, and those that remained of the Crusade either surrendered or attempted to flee into the night.
Remnii turned to check on everyone else as Vel had been stabilized and taken away by Kael'thas. Darion fortunately appeared to be alright with some medical attention. He looked over to the body of his brother as other members of the Argent Dawn clapped Sally in manacles.
Darion Mograine says: Collect his body with the other fallen. We’ll see to it that he’s buried with the rest.
He picked up his brother’s sword as others moved the man’s body away. Sally grit her teeth as she watched her husband carted off, and she was pulled out of the monastery.
Remnii noted a fragment of a naaru was affixed in the center of Sally’s staff as it was scooped up by Gil and put in a bag of holding.
The other allied forces were tending to the wounded, collecting the fallen, or herding prisoners under the dark, moonless night. The party saw Jaina and Arthas speaking to Lilian Voss, who was giving the end of a report. There was shock and hardness in Jaina’s expression as she nodded at Lilian, who stalked away to continue working. Upon seeing the party, Jaina then swept over and pulled Uther into an embrace.
She took his face in her hands.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: What happened to you?
Uther Menethil says: Well. I made an exchange, I suppose. Don’t worry mother, I’m fine.
Arator stepped forward.
Arator Windrunner says: Your Majesty, I… ‘twas I. We met on the field of battle and before he showed me the mistakes I have made–
Uther clapped Arator on the back.
Uther Menethil says: Dealt me a sound blow is what he did! Nothing more.
Arator Windrunner says: Uther… I was as much a part of this as anyone else. I drew steel against our home, your kingdom…
Uther Menethil says: As did many others here. The ones who will face the justice are the ones who gave the orders. I will not condemn my people for being afraid.
Jaina nodded.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: There is wisdom in that, Uther. I hope others will see such reason. Regardless, Arator, it’s good you’re back, but there are probably others who will be more glad to see you.
She stepped back and gestured to Turalyon, Alleria, Vereesa, and other Windrunners as they hurried forward. Alleria pulled ahead of the others.
Alleria Windrunner says: Arator…
She closed the distance and reached for him, but she stopped and pulled her hand back.
Alleria Windrunner says: I’m glad you’re safe.
Arator nodded.
Arator Windrunner says: Yes, I… I am too. Did… did you see where Vel went?
Alleria nodded.
Alleria Windrunner says: His Majesty took her to a place he had prepared. A demiplane. She's safe.
Arator Windrunner says: I’m glad…
Turalyon stepped up next to his wife and held his hand out to Arator.
Turalyon Windrunner says: I’m proud of you, my son.
Arator shook his head.
Arator Windrunner says: Why? After everything I’ve done–
Turalyon Windrunner says: It’s not for the things you’ve done. It’s the fact you saw the truth and came back to us. We’ve all made mistakes. It is what we do to make good upon them that matters.
Arator looked at his father’s hand, but instead of taking it, he closed the distance to his father and broke down into weeping against Turalyon’s armor. Turalyon wrapped his arms around him and gave Alleria a soft smile and a small nod. Alleria slowly walked over and gently ran a hand through her son’s hair.
Uther put an arm around his own mother, who was tearing up as she laid her head against the shoulder of her son’s massive pauldron. King Arthas put a hand on his son’s shoulder. Wild Arthas stood watching awkwardly, and king Arthas dragged him into the hug as well.
Darion approached Maxwell Tyrosus, as well as Turalyon and Arthas after they were done hugging their sons.
Darion Mograine says: This belongs to you three more than anyone else.
He produced the Libram of Retribution which he had plucked from Renault’s corpse and handed it over to the three of them. Maxwell asked if he was alright, and Darion confirmed he was, he was just glad it was all over with.
Maxwell Tyrosus says: Unfortunately not completely. Even though three major leaders have been slain, two of which permanently…
He looked over at the Headless Horseman, who was still presently riding in the distance.
Maxwell Tyrosus says: Grand Crusader Dathrohan is still at large. We haven’t heard back from the ones who went to make contact with him. I would love to think that what happened here might open another dialogue and get him to see reason… but if he’s responsible for harming Raymond George and his entourage, I am beginning to think he may be too far gone as well. But their grip on Lordaeron has been shattered and their leadership scattered. We have done all we can at the moment. We will need to see if we can snuff out the Crusade before it can recover.
Darion nodded.
Darion Mograine says: At the very least, I’m glad to see that my family’s name will no longer be sullied by my brother’s actions.
Tyrosus put a hand on his shoulder.
Maxwell Tyrosus says: And you shouldn’t be walking around.
Darion cough-laughed and agreed he was right. He offered a salute before he headed off to rest.
Emerging from the Crusade Chapel was Grom Hellscream and a few of the other orcs that had been freed. Grom still looked absolutely awful. His body was emaciated and covered in the gore of his enemies. His hair was wild and blood-caked with Gorehowl hefted over his shoulder. There was palpable tension amongst the elves.
Grom saw the party and headed over along with Nazgrim. His eyes fell to Remnii and Uther.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: You. You were responsible for helping to free me from my fetters.
Remnii says [orcish]: Correct. Grom.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: You are Remnii, yes?
Remnii confirmed.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: It has been some time. It seems you too have slipped your chains.
Remnii says [orcish]: It’s good to have done so.
Grom looked back at Uther.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: You. You are the heir of the chieftain of this tribe?
Uther Menethil says [orcish]: This is correct.
Arthas spoke up and expressed he was the chieftain, with the help of magic from Jaina. He introduced Jaina as well as his mate.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: It seems I owe your son a blood-debt.
The orc hefted Gorehowl to cut a lock of hair from his head and tore a length of string off a banner to tie it with. He handed it to Uther.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Let this symbolize what you did for the Warsong. So long as I live, no true orc will raise a blade against you as long as my name holds respect.
He then looked at Nazgrim with a chuff.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: For as long as that may last.
Grom looked around at the group.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Where is she? The other who was held captive. She of the long fangs.
Remnii says [orcish]: She was taken to heal amongst her people.
Grom nodded and hacked another lock of hair from his head, which he handed to Remnii.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: See to it that she receives this as well then. Should you see her before I.
He then looked back to Uther and Arthas.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Our enemy is in ruins, and we find ourselves at an impasse.
Uther Menethil says [orcish]: What impasse is that?
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: I have slaughtered your people, and you have killed mine in response. Our mutual enemy is slain. What now would you have unfold between our clans?
Uther Menethil says [orcish]: I believe only one of our mutual enemies has been slain.
Grom raised a brow.
Uther Menethil says [orcish]: May I ask you a question? Why do you fight for the Legion?
Grom furrowed his brow.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: I fight for the Horde. I fight for the glory of the Warsong Clan. I do not fight to serve Gul’dan and his demons. It is they who serve the Horde.
Uther Menethil says [orcish]: Your belief is that this demonic army is subservient to the Horde?
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: They have given us power. They are our allies. But we do not serve them.
Remnii says [orcish]: What if the Horde was loosed from the Legion?
Nazgrim says [orcish]: Much has happened since your incarceration, chieftain.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Explain.
Remnii gave a cursory overview of what had occurred with the Horde, namely that Gul’dan had been ousted and fled, and Blackhand was dead with Arthak as the warchief with Garrosh and Go’el joining him as co-leaders.
Grom offered a deep, mirthless laugh.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Seems I have missed a lot, haven’t I? I’m not surprised that young Saurfang was the one to take the warchief title, nor am I shocked to see that my son stands by his side and seeks my head. I would hope that Go'el's temperance would do both of them well.
Grom placed Gorehowl on the ground to rest on the hilt.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: I was sent forth to spread conquest and sing songs of blood and thunder for the warchief. To bring honor and glory to the Horde. But the warchief lies dead. And the elder chased from our home. Seems like I might need new orders.
Remnii says [orcish]: Good news. I intend to deliver you to Arthak Saurfang.
Grom furrowed his brow.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: I had hoped to have words with my son first… but very well.
Remnii says [orcish]: I was advised by Go’el you go to Arthak first.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: The son of Durotan is a wise man. Have the rest of you consented to this arrangement?
Uther Menethil says [orcish]: I have.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Very well then, Remnii. I will abide the promise that my clansmen had given you. The blood of these small-teeth will no longer grace my axe, so long as they uphold their end of the bargain. For now, at least.
Jaina nodded.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: You have my thanks, chieftain. Though I know that this is far from the end of the conflict between our people, I hope that this is a first step towards ending it.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: We will see. But I must admit, you small-teeth know how to fight.
Arthas Menethil says [tongues]: You have my thanks for your compliment, chieftain.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: So long as you and your kin are amenable, we have a place where you and your warriors can convalesce. A camp conjured with magic. One where you will have meat and mead aplenty, and where you will not need to be surrounded by the chatterings of small folk. I can lead you there on the morrow after we make sure everything is handled and your people are accounted for.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Very well. Where is the warchief and how will we make our way to him?
Remnii says [orcish]: Some logistics depended on your number. I will keep you abreast. I know where they are going. However, proper transportation is sometimes difficult across the ocean.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: I will wait for your words, Remnii. You have earned that much patience. Warsong! You have heard what has transpired. We will leave these lands soon. Find the rest of those who survived. We lay the fallen in this place and we prepare to return to the Horde and see what this Arsenal is all about.
Grom turned away with his own people, but he caught Maraad’s eye, who had been scowling at him the entire time. There was a moment of tension between them that caused Gromm to stop.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: You. I recognize you. The warrior from Shattrath.
Maraad looked angry but also surprised.
Maraad says [orcish]: I’m surprised you recognized me with all the faces of men and women who have crossed your blade.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: I remember the faces of all who have fallen to Gorehowl, but even more do I remember those who have not. You fought with ferocity and strength uncommon to your people.
Maraad scoffed.
Maraad says [orcish]: Perhaps amongst the faceless women and children.
Grom chuffed.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: Perhaps. Are you and I going to have a problem?
Maraad clenched his fists, but then he looked over at Remnii and Garona and sighed.
Maraad says [orcish]: No. No we won’t.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: A shame. I would have enjoyed crossing blades with you again.
Maraad says [orcish]: I will pray to the Light that such will never happen, chieftain. One of us would not be walking away from that conflict.
Grommash Hellscream says [orcish]: I suppose you’re right.
Grom looked over at Garona and nodded to her before he turned fully away. Garona, Maraad, Jaina, and Remnii all exhaled. Remnii approached and set a hand on Maraad’s hand.
Maraad says [draenic]: Are you absolutely sure we can’t just kill him?
Remnii says [draenic]: Not after all this. Not when there is still more to come. You did well.
Maraad nodded with a sigh and cupped her cheek in his hand.
Maraad says [draenic]: Are you hurt?
Remnii shook her head, nuzzling her face into his gauntlet.
Remnii says [draenic]: No. I am… as well as I will be.
Maraad says [draenic]: We did good today. We have stopped the Light from being twisted by these people.
Remnii says [draenic]: We did. And you? I’m not going to ask if you are well, but for now are you well enough?
Maraad says [draenic]: I have faced the man who represents everything that I’ve ever failed to accomplish. I have slain people who twist my beliefs to their own devices. And I have fought alongside creatures I never expected to be allied with. These last few weeks have been much. But… we live. We thrive. Tomorrow will be brighter for it.
Remnii says [draenic]: A wise way to put it.
Maraad says [draenic]: I am glad that Miss Velameestra is returned. I hope she recovers quickly.
Remnii says [draenic]: I imagine her convalescence will take time. In more ways than just physical.
Maraad says [draenic]: …Yes.
Remnii says: But for now we all need rest.
Jaina Proudmoore-Menethil says: Agreed. Everyone make sure to see to your wounds, but make sure you get some rest. I think all of you have earned it, and there are enough people who can watch over the night. Tomorrow we can work towards bringing this to an end. After the dead have been interred we can head back to the city and figure out what happens next.
A camp started to emerge for as much as it could in the landscape of the battlefield. Gil moved to spend time with his family. Arator had effectively cried himself to sleep. Gil was greeted with relieved looks, and Lirath quickly gave him a quiet but tearful hug. The family did not have many words as exhaustion, relief, and trepidation settled over the group.
Remnii went to check in on Liadrin, who had busied herself tending to others. She assured Remnii she was alright as she squeezed her hand and encouraged Remnii to go and get some rest with a kiss to the back of her hand.
While there were some lost, the overall death toll of the conflict was low. Most of them were on the side of the Scarlet Crusade, but there remained a great deal of discussion for the penance and punishment that would be issued.
November 1st
As the group awoke the next morning, they saw all manner of people combing the ruins for any other bodies. Zabra Hexx was among them as he wandered the ruins that had been his home. The elves were taking stock of their own dead as they cast wary glances at the orcs who were keeping a deliberate distance.
Camps were being broken down as they were hoping that by tomorrow the bulk of the forces would leave while those in intensive care would be teleported back to Lordaeron. The aftermath was quiet and muted, and there was little celebration as the general air was relief.
That next morning, Kael’thas came to find Uther and Gil. He was back to his normal self, and he offered a smile.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: Your Highness.
Uther Menethil says: Good morning, your Majesty.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: To you as well. I wanted to let you know that Velameestra is recovering in a special demiplane I have prepared. I brought her portable room and we laid her to rest there. She hasn’t awoken yet, but that’s to be expected. We’ve been keeping an eye on her. She will have a lot of recovery to do, but she is safe, and I wanted to offer to all of her family that, should you need to see her before she awakens, you are welcome to do so. She needs rest… but I believe she will need all of us if she’s going to recover from this. I have extended to other members of your family already. That said… I did wish to apologize if I may have concerned you with my behavior last night.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t think it was entirely unwarranted. I won’t claim to have anything approaching complete understanding… but Vel did explain to me that emotions like anger, rage, fear, and sorrow… things that are pronounced and amplified when a person is returned? Undead?
Kael’thas chuckled.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: Both apt, and I would be lying if I said I was not still feeling a great deal of anger and rage… but those responsible have been brought to custody. That’s what’s important. Until they are brought to justice, there’s not much to do about it beyond ensuring those that yet live can recover. But I’ve spoken to your lord mother and father already. In two days time, I plan to give an address to the people of your city, and those of my people residing in the refugee quarters. The Scarlet Crusade has spread enough rumors, but they deserve to know the truth of the matter. I won’t hide what our people are going through any longer, and I think it’s a disservice to do so.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Especially because it’s already out.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: Especially because of that, yes. But I simply saw fit that you should know as well.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I think it’s a wise decision. I know you don’t need my approval, obviously.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: Of course. Yet beyond the fact you are indeed one of my subjects, you are also someone who is… well… whom I hope I can consider a friend.
Gil smiled.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Of course.
Uther Menethil says: I think it’s a good idea as well. For what it’s worth, I’ll be leveraging all the tools at my disposal to ensure that relations between our people improve.
Kael'thas nodded.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: I… don’t know what is going to happen at the end of this, Uther. I think both of our nations will be going through a great deal of change over the next few years. But I will do everything in my power to make sure we all remember what you and your kingdom has done for us, and not just what the Scarlet Crusade tried to do. But it seems you’ve upheld your end of our little bargain, so I will do the same. When the time comes, the sin’dorei will stand with you against the so-called High King.
Uther Menethil says: Glad am I to hear it.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: But we all have a great deal we need to take care of. Should you need me, I’ll try to make myself at your disposal.
He bowed his head and excused himself.
Gil went off and handed the Demon Soul back to the Scales of Azeroth. Samia asked if he had experienced anything unexpected, like hallucinations or otherwise, and he confirmed he hadn’t. Samia was satisfied that breaking up the burden of the Demon Soul seemed to be working. Gil expressed he didn’t think he would need it until it was time to handle Onyxia. Gil also gave them a quick rundown of his plans while Vel was recovering. He also gave them the heads up about Kael'thas’s address, and Thal’ena said she would help in what ways she could to help mitigate rumor-mongering. Teemo said she’d like to return to the city as well, and Thal’ena rolled her eyes and expressed Teemo just wanted to spend time with Liiraluma. Teemo grinned and said she could do both.
Motah said he wanted to continue helping with the plague. Given the undead seemed to be meeting in Andorhal, he wanted to try and guide undead there. Zagarra agreed she could help him. Vaelastrasz said he could coordinate between the groups, and Samia said she would likely poke her nose around to see if she could make contact with some of her old connections to find out what was going on in Stormwind. She said she would meet them at Karazhan before things started up again.
Teemo tried to get everyone to put their hands in a circle and cheer. Zagarra did not.
Gil then went to find Remnii, who was tending to whatever wounded were present. He asked if she was busy, and Remnii started, as she was very focused rerolling bandages. She dropped the bandages which rolled away in a long strip of gauge.
Remnii sighed and looked up at Gil with a “good morning”
Gil said that he had wanted to ensure Remnii received Sally’s staff. Remnii looked over it sadly, and her eyes found the crystal laid within it.
Remnii says: Thank you.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: It looked like one of your crystals. I obviously don’t know for sure.
Remnii says: I will meditate upon it. See if I can learn anything. I appreciate you bringing this to me. I… will also likely need to speak to Arator, but for now, this is a good start.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Do you mind if I ask what it is? Other than apparently important?
Remnii says: Naaru have a heart.
She conjured an illusion of a small naaru that turned in her palm.
Remnii says: Since you did not make the journey to Kalimdor I would not expect you to know… but imagine this by far larger. This is a naaru. A being composed of crystal and Light.
She motioned to T’uure as well.
Remnii says: They are beings that are nearly, if not truly, symbiotic with my own people. They are the reason that the draenei exist at all and we are not eredar amongst the Burning Legion. The story of him though…
She looked at Sally’s staff.
Remnii says: Before I arrived, during my time with the Horde, in a very abridged fashion, we were able to locate A’dal’s core. His name is and was A’dal. I sent him here in hopes he could convalesce knowing my people had come to Azeroth.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: But he came here instead of your father.
Remnii says: Long before I arrived here, from what I was told… do you remember the large crystal? The first time you fought Zalazane, do you remember when the crystal apparently rocketed through the atmosphere? And helped to crush him?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Yes. It was very perfectly timed. Somehow.
Remnii says: The naaru have a way of looking out for my friends and I. I sent him to Azeroth. That crystal is the heart of A’dal. I came here soon after the Dark Portal was opened to commune with him. He was sick, in a sense. In the time we were gone… he was changed by the Scarlet Crusade. I believe that some of him resides now in the sword called Ashbringer, and some of him is here as well.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: How bad is it for him to be split?
Remnii says: That is a complex question. They are made of crystal… even T’uure, my staff, was once the naaru named T’uure. I never knew T’uure, however, and I hardly knew A’dal. I don’t know how bad it is yet. That is what I am hoping to find out. Sometimes it is their will… they sometimes know it is time to be changed, in a sense… but for all I know of them, it also begets more questions.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: So they are… okay… with becoming objects?
Remnii says: They are individuals for as much as they are a choir. How about this… I will….
She looked at the naaru in her hand and dismissed the illusion.
Remnii says: Let you know when I know more. But thank you for returning what you could to me. I feel somewhat responsible for this happening. But I will… we take this a day at a time. As should you.
She offered a soft, encouraging smile to Gil, though it was somewhat drawn.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: That’s all we can do. Well. Apparently some people can have whatever days they want.
Remnii says: Not many of us have that luxury. So thank you again, Gil. I’ve said that a few times.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: That’s okay. I don’t mind.
Remnii chuffed.
Remnii says: If you wish for company, even quiet ones, I will be around.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I might have to take you up on that. Quiet is good.
Remnii says: The coming days will still be filled with difficulties. When was the last time you had a massage?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I don’t know actually…
Remnii says: We have gone through much. But find me later when you have some time to relax, I believe I can at least help you on that. Does that sound good?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Yeah, I certainly appreciate that.
Gil also went off to find Rommath. He was actually with Victor later on in the day. They were having a conversation, but it was mental, and they seemed to be wrapping it up. Victor smiled as he saw Gil.
Victor Prestor says: Oh. Gil. There hasn’t been word from Vel yet. I figured you might have been coming to ask?
Gilveradin Windrunner says: Well. Not quite, but it’s appreciated.
Victor blinked in surprise.
Victor Prestor says: Well. I’ll leave you to it.
He looked at Rommath.
Victor Prestor says: Thank you again, Grand Magister.
Rommath nodded and he turned his attention to Gil as Victor departed.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: To what do I owe the pleasure, Master Windrunner?
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: When you were with us… and Vel was first coming to, there was no one else there, was there?
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Not that I saw. It would not be uncommon for someone under such duress to experience visual or auditory hallucinations, but the fact you are here asking implies you believe something else is afoot.
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: I… don’t know exactly. Especially when she got that ring it was like she was talking to someone else. It was different than initially.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Like there was a different persona.
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: Yeah. I was just wondering if you picked up something I didn’t.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I did not read her mind. But I have theories. I intend to ask her when she is awake and recovered.
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: Alright. She… had those hallucinations before. So I will leave it in your hands.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Do you know what they were about?
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: They were Dar’Khan.
Gil saw a flicker in Rommath’s eyes that appeared to be some dots connecting, but the tell immediately vanished.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: I see. That would certainly explain the hostility when we first found her… doubly so when we referred to Arellas Fireleaf as a traitor and she said “not you”, but that does not explain the shift in her demeanor about her belongings.
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: So there’s someone else there?
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Perhaps, or she simply saw another manifestation given her fragile mental state. Thank you for this information, Gilveradin.
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: I’m… just worried.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Rightly so. But your sister… if she has proven anything, she’s both stubborn and resilient, though I’m certain she will not recover immediately, Miss Windrunner will not allow this to defeat her, of that I’m certain.
Gil snorted.
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: Well no, I know my sister and I know this won’t hold her down for long. But I also know she’ll push before she should.
Rommath Pyrewing says [telepathically]: Undoubtedly so, but only so much can be done about that. Good evening, Master Windrunner.
Gilveradin Windrunner says [telepathically]: Grand Magister.
Rommath nodded and dismissed himself.
Given it was the troll Day of the Dead, Seria spent a great deal of time with Zabra and Riff extending offerings to the loa and their ancestors.
November 2nd
The next day, the group returned to Lordaeron city. There was a certain unease, but there was a palpable sigh of relief as the Scarlet Crusade had been fully removed from the city. The banners of the Crusade had been stripped and replaced with symbology of the Argent Dawn. The Hallow’s End celebrations went off without a hitch, and there were still pieces of candy littered about the streets. The evening of the following day, it was planned for Kael’thas to make his address.
As Gil started to move around the city, it seemed that moods were fairly high. There were ashes of a wickerman celebration outside the city, and there seemed to have been no problems while the conflict was being resolved. He worked to keep the energy going.
The judicial system of Lordaeron had started to move into gear. Uther moved to speak with the various magistrates and also his mother and father about the punishments that would be dealt. The verdicts went exactly as Uther wanted. Every officer was judged as even-temperedly as possible, and mercy and grace were given to those who would seek that atonement. The process would take much longer than a single week, but it started with the worst people and filtered from the ground up to get people out of holding cells.
However, Uther went to speak to Sally personally after she was informed that she would be executed. She was sitting in a cell in a simple tunic, and she did not look in Uther’s direction as he entered.
Uther Menethil says: Do you mind if I have a seat?
Sally Mograine says: I keep looking out hoping that perhaps I might see the banners of the Grand Crusader come to rescue me, but that’s not going to happen, is it? Go on. I couldn’t stop you even if I wanted to.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t imagine it will.
Uther pulled out a chair and sat down. Sally turned toward him.
Uther Menethil says: Even now, you truly believe you were acting in the best interests of Lordaeron?
Sally Mograine says: If you’re hoping to get me to admit that you were right all along in my eleventh hour, you are sorely mistaken.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t want an admission. I don’t want submission. What I want is to understand. Because I can’t. How? We read the same texts. And from those words, you and I pulled two vastly different messages. Because I cannot imagine feeling justified in the path where innocent lives were lost intentionally. Bartered away.
Sally Mograine says: This is a ludicrous question, Uther, but have you ever worked on a farm before? I don’t imagine you have in your life.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t think mucking the stables at the barracks counts? So no, I haven’t.
Sally Mograine says: Tell me, what does a shepherd fear most for its flock?
Uther Menethil says: I would guess the wolves.
Sally Mograine says: Indeed. And rightly so. The wolf is the natural predator of a sheep, is it not? Were a shepherd to welcome a wolf into its flock, what would happen?
Uther Menethil says: Your point isn’t lost on me. But I don’t know any shepherds that go around killing dogs because they look like wolves.
Sally scoffed.
Sally Mograine says: And yet if there was the slightest chance… that it could save the lives of your flock, would you not do it?
Uther Menethil says: Me? No.
Sally Mograine says: Then I so desperately hope that the wolves you have decided to allow to live amongst you do not decide to turn their fangs upon you. You ask how I derived this? How I came to this conclusion? You say we read the same texts, but perhaps we didn’t. Or perhaps your eyes are simply too naive to see the truth. Respect. To respect the living regardless of what form it takes. To give respect to your fellow men. And for they to respect life in turn.
She laughed.
Sally Mograine says: What among those abominations has respect for the living? We are sustenance to them and nothing more. They respect us only as much as we are useful to them, and the only respect to be given in turn is the respect a shepherd gives to the wolf. Compassion. To set aside pride and to work toward the greater good. To see the wolf twisted and unnatural… tell me, is it a mercy to let such creatures, living their facsimile of a life… what you did in Andorhal? Is there a mercy in that? In letting little children play with their decaying mothers and fathers? Of pretending that the lengthy fangs that hide behind smiling lips don’t desire anything more but to sink into your flesh? You speak of giving mercy, to give them a chance to live a life they could possibly leave, and what of those whose lives you put on the line to give them such an opportunity? If you are wrong with even one… what of them? And that’s not to even begin on the orcs who you share a bed with. The same orcs that burned the homes of the elves, but of the greater half of the Eastweald. Of your home and your kingdom. Tell me, where is the mercy for all the families of the peoples who were murdered by the same orcs you gave amnesty to? Where is their justice? And, Light forbid, if they decide to turn their ire to you instead. The fate of Saint Uther, your namesake, should be plenty enough to tell you what happens when a single dagger finds its mark. Even the greatest heroes can meet their end. Where is the compassion in boundless mercy, Uther? Where is the compassion for yourself? You take all these burdens one after another, and how long before the roof caves in upon yourself? The teachings of compassion are as much about yourself as the common man, and you are a fool to ignore it. Perhaps one day you’ll realize ruthlessness is a mercy upon oneself, and perhaps you’ll see it before the roof crashes down. And of course tenacity… I assume you’ll say you’ll keep fighting for as long as it takes. There is perhaps nobleness behind that. To keep walking on a path of struggle no matter how difficult it may become. But do you truly believe you can accomplish your goals without compromising some of your morals?
Uther Menethil says: I didn’t have to kill him. The fight was over. I knew it was over. I could have incapacitated him. I could have pulled the force of that blow. When Renault Mograine fell at my hand, it was not justice, it was vengeance.
Sally took a deep breath, her lips becoming a thin line.
Uther Menethil says: I hated you in that moment. For what you inflicted on the people I love. I wanted to hurt you in the way you hurt me. It was a battlefield. We were combatants on opposing sides. But what I did to your husband was murder. And it sickens me. You’ll see death for your crimes. As would he, had I not already seen to it. And despite all of the damage you have caused, I feel remorse. Because I saw your face when you saw what I had done to him. I heard your voice. And I could not help but imagine what it would be like to see my beloved torn asunder before me. The execution, perhaps, you deserved. Some people might even think you deserved to see your husband die. But as the one that swung the axe, I wish I hadn’t. That is what that anger leads to. That fear. It seeps in. It makes you forget the things that are important to you. Though I don’t imagine this will be anything approaching a comfort for you to hear, you, Sally Mograine, have taught me a great deal.
Sally got quiet for a moment.
Sally Mograine says: I do not need your pity, Uther Menethil. I hope you carry that pain. If there’s one thing that I could leave you with, then it would be that lesson. That twisting knife in your heart that you felt in that moment. And I hope, for your sake, that all these bargains you make and your hands you outstretch disregarding the strain of every single joint does not cause your beloved to suffer the same fate mine did. A bitter breed of irony this life is so fond of giving us.
Uther Menethil says: War makes all of us victim and perpetrator of incalculable cruelty. And in the conflict with your Scarlet Crusade, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that darkness lurks even in the brightest places. Even in me. And despite the vast advantage that cruelty has over kindness because kindness can only give everything it has, while cruelty can always take more, I will endeavor always to offer my open hand instead of a closed fist.
Sally Mograine says: That naivety will not serve you, Uther. But then… I lost. So. Perhaps it is not my council you should take. I do not fear death. And perhaps you may rest easily knowing I will be reunited with my beloved soon.
Uther Menethil says: I don’t have the right to ask this.
He got to his feet.
Uther Menethil says: But, when you see him, if you remember, tell him I regret what I did. Light be with you, Sally, I don’t imagine we’ll be meeting again.
Uther turned and headed from the cell. As the door closed behind him, it was the last time he would ever see her alive.
Vel awoke in her portable hole, and she heard a woman quietly humming. As she looked out, she saw a shock of long, silvery-white hair. Vel shifted slightly, moving Arkha’din out of the way.
Velameestra Windrunner says: …minn’da?
The humming immediately stopped and the figure turned. It was Vereesa, who bore a look of surprise.
Vereesa Windrunner says: Vel! I’m sorry, did I wake you?
Velameestra Windrunner says: No… aunt Vereesa, you… you were fine.
Vel shook her head to clear it and Vereesa trotted over to her. She stuck her head into the portable hole to get closer to her and asked if she needed anything, like water or blood or new sheets. Vel admitted she wasn’t sure how long she would be awake, and Vereesa assured her that she was free to rest as long as she needed, and she was safe and back in Lordaeron. She explained that everyone had returned from the Monastery, and she had just been doing some tidying up around the room.
Vel thanked her, and Vereesa smiled at her and moved to return to the chores, but Vel shifted to catch her attention. She turned back inquisitively.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I… owe you an apology.
Vereesa Windrunner says: Vel, honey, what do you need to apologize for? Oh, if you’re worried about… you’re just waking up, it’s alright.
Velameestra Windrunner says: No…
She shifted again so she could look at her aunt better.
Velameestra Windrunner says: When I was younger. I… thought you were trying to replace her. And I wasn’t fair to you. I’m sorry.
Vereesa Windrunner says: Oh.
Vereesa’s eyes immediately began to water as she teared up.
Vereesa Windrunner says: Oh.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You were just trying to look out for… me and Gil… and I wasn’t fair to you.
Vereesa Windrunner says: Oh sweetie. Oh honey, it’s okay. You have nothing to apologize for! You were just a kid!
Her voice was cracking, as she was trying her best to not start openly weeping.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I love you.
Vereesa Windrunner says: I love you so much, Vel. You are just… you mean so much to me, and your father, and everyone, I hope you know that. I’ve always loved you and…
She sniffed.
Vereesa Windrunner says: Sorry.
She dabbed at her tears.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I’ll… be better soon.
Vereesa Windrunner says: Take all the time you need, sweetie.
It didn’t take long for Vel to just fade back into sleep, and Vereesa kissed her hand and blew it at her with a small prestidigitation heart being carried in a wiggly little mana wyrm’s mouth.
Vereesa turned and did a small dance to herself while still basically in tears, and she went and found Rhonin and proceeded to bury her face in his back and scream-squeed while still crying. Rhonin asked her if everything was alright.
Vereesa explained that Vel woke up briefly and what she had said, and Rhonin was incredibly endeared, but also asked his wife to breathe.
Remnii had spent some time meditating over the crystal in Sally’s staff, and it seemed to react to her, unlike the unresponsiveness of A’dal before. She also sensed some sort of resonant signal, but there was some static there.
It also seems like the rest of the staff was drawing power from the crystal, but the fragment of the crystal was missing something. However, a part of A’dal was still very much there.
Meanwhile, Gil, Uther, and Arator had gone out into the city to help in what ways they could. They helped at some of the soup kitchens and handed out furs as the temperature continued to drop. They ran into Raleigh, who was working at the newly established Argent Dawn barracks, and Gil dropped off a note from “Camtheus Glowsun” with extra funding for the refugees.
Raleigh was baffled and started to ask around if anyone else knew of this person. Gil happened to overhear Raleigh asking after the man as they passed again in the street.
Arator put his entire heart into helping in any way he could, and he was clearly carrying so much weight on his heart as he was wracked with overwhelming guilt. He tried to smile as much as he could, but whenever he could, he stopped by Vel’s room to sit with her as she slept. However, he was also accompanied by the white raven constantly.
Gil asked about the raven again, and Arator said that he still don’t know, all he knew was her name was Snow.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: You named her that, or she came with the name?
Arator Windrunner says: Ah… when Vel was first visiting me, she did so as a raven that looked a lot like her… and I gave her the name. It just… felt right to name this raven after her? So I guess she came with it in a roundabout sense.
Gilveradin Windrunner says: I wonder if the raven is just a connection between you and Vel?
Arator Windrunner says: I don’t know. I imagine she’ll be able to figure it out… at least once she’s recovered.
The raven made a few noises as it received scritches.
Darion Mograine found out what they were doing and wanted to join in, but the doctors insisted that he rest.
However, Robert Travard also joined them so he could also see the big city that he never got the chance to explore. He also showed off a small sending stone that Jaina had given him, as they had talked for a bit and she learned more about him and his connection to Krasus.
They showed Travard a games store and he laughed as he pulled a legendary card and it happened to be Uther Menethil. Uther looked at it slack-jawed and he asked to see it so that he could see what the mechanics were.
Uther Menethil says: I can’t wait to tell Vel about this.
Bob told him he could keep it and offered a smile as he closed his hand on the card.
November 3rd
In the evening, after the sun had started to set and create a beautiful twilight sky, the word had been spread that King Kael’thas of Silvermoon had an announcement to make. The palace was given as a seat for the announcement, and various mages were employed to project his image and voice across the city.
Kael’thas stepped out to some cheers, and he smiled.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: Thank you, one and all. Good people of Lordaeron and my brothers and sisters of Quel’thalas. Thank you one and all for coming here on such comparatively short notice. I understand the last few days have been trying for many people. Over the course of the last few weeks there have been great upheavals amongst our nations, and I would first and foremost like to thank you all, for we would not be here today if we did not join together to overcome. However… in that time there has been some rumors that I would like to address. It was not lost upon me that the rise of the Scarlet Crusade was precluded by a number of incidents. Many of which involved my own people. There have been stories and fearmongering that have darkened the corners of every town, city, and village from here to the borders of our home. Tales of creatures risen from the grave. That the sin’dorei kept a dark secret from our Lordane neighbors. I will not be telling you how you should or should not feel, but what I am coming to you is to dispel the mist of obfuscation that has risen over our eyes. I must admit to you that the rumors you have heard are not entirely unfounded.
There were gasps amongst the crowd.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: There are members of the sin’dorei who have died. The means and methods vary. But the war has taken a great toll upon all of us. But some of us did not remain deceased.
Kael’thas reached down and unfastened buttons to reveal the glowing scar on his chest.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: I myself am among them. As are several members of the Convocation of Silvermoon. I am what may be colloquially referred to as a vampyr.
There were more gasps.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: The blood-sucking monsters that you have heard of in Hallow’s End fables. Many of our kind have joined me. I was the first, but not the only one, to have this condition. But there are others who have taken other forms. Some that may be quite shocking to the common folk that would live their lives in safety and tranquility, were it not for these recent months. This secret has been kept from many of you, though there are some that have been thrust into the truth through one means or another. Indeed, you have also heard rumors of events to the east. Ours are not the only who have undergone such change. And though each and every one of us may have a different story to tell, some of us might be able to walk amongst you without any knowledge. To hide in plain sight. Know you two things: first and foremost, I wish no ill will upon any living being. Yes, I am no longer amongst you, not truly. Even now, I hear your heart beats quickening in fear and anticipation and anxiety. But tell me. Would you kill your neighbor just because he had something you wished was yours? Would you slay who you love simply because they had some good fortune that you were jealous of? We may not be alive, but we still exist. And that will not change. I do not know what our future will hold. But I know that it may coexist with the living. It is my sincerest wish that it does just that.
He held his hand up.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: But we have fought side by side towards a common goal. Towards bringing to justice those who wished harm upon us simply for existing. Simply for daring to hide ourselves. Lest we be slain purely for what we are. I ask you… good people of Lordaeron, children of the sun, do any of you wish to be judged purely upon what you are? On what you look like?
The voices in the crowd murmured, and he looked about.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: I do not ask for you to accept or understand everything you see this day. But you deserve to know and acknowledge this truth. Though I may look just like any other living elf, I’m not, but I am still me.
As he brought the speech to its conclusion, a telepathic [Message] manifested in his mind.
Velameestra Windrunner says [message]: Kael… do you mind if I say something?
Kael’thas looked sideways and then back with a look of shock.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says [message]: Velameestra? What are you doing awake?
Velameestra Windrunner says [message]: I wanted to be here.
Kael’thas turned to look at her fully as the crowd continued to murmur. Vel asked again if he minded if she said something. Kael’thas smiled at her.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says [message]: I wouldn’t dream of stopping you.
He turned back to the crowd.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says: Before you retire for the evening… there is someone else who would like to speak. Someone who nearly gave everything for the living.
Vel stepped out onto the platform. While better than she had been, she didn’t look anywhere near fully recovered, and her face was still gaunt and drawn. Her white hair had also been messily chopped short, and it had not been done with any amount of expert finesse. However, she had clearly tried to put herself together best she could.
She had a cloth over her missing eye to serve as an eyepatch, and the shirt she was wearing was revealing in the sense that it showed as much of the raw brand of the Scarlet Crusade on her chest as could be reasonably managed. She looked out across the crowd.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Some of you may know me as Velameestra Windrunner. And as the saying goes… ignorance is bliss. But you'll forgive me, as I am not going to give you that luxury. The Scarlet Crusade touted us as monsters. They claimed we deceive and we manipulate. That we wear masks of familiar faces to disarm and upheave. That we are no longer the people you loved. Their only truth is that we are different. The Crusade funded a plague of undeath to spread fear–to fabricate justification–because our simple existence, for as much as they claimed, was not enough. They hounded the sin’dorei. They turned us against one another. They ripped us apart, because they decided their discomfort was best served with extermination. And still they weren’t satisfied. I was in the custody of the Scarlet Crusade for eleven days. I should have met my true end by day six. Torture. Starvation. Mutilation. Unable to sleep and kept on a life support of burning holy magic because they wanted to create the mindless, feral creature that suited their narrative.
She paused, taking a moment to retain her composure.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...they succeeded. But I want you to face the reality of what that took. There were several of us in their custody. Only two survived. Any one of us could have been someone you hold dear. Or perhaps that you once did. You’re valid in being scared, but recognize that we are too. Just as we hate. We despair. We suffer. But so to do we love and rejoice and dream. We are different, but in that we are the same. All I ask is that you keep a mind open to new understanding. Our people have been shattered enough.
The crowd was silent as she looked across it, her head held high despite her bedraggled appearance. She turned and started to walk away, though she stopped and looked over her shoulder as she reached out telepathically to Kael’thas once more.
Velameestra Windrunner says [message]: …My strength is still not here. Please tell me how it goes. I just… make use of every arrow in your quiver.
As Vel walked away, she heard a noise as, in the audience, Gil started a clap. Uther, Remnii, Elissa, and other people followed. Even people whose eyes were wide with fear and uncertainty began to clap, as regardless of the emotions, they were moved even a bit. Some people left. Others held their hands to their mouth in confusion and fear, but so many more began to clap.
Kael'thas Sunstrider says [message]: …Let that be your answer, Vel.
Vel didn’t respond, but she smiled softly as she moved to return to her rest.
November 4th - November 6th
Over the next several days, there was uncertainty and fear as the quiet part was said out loud, but everyone knew that it was more complicated than it had made to be. There were not riots in the streets, but there was discomfort and uncertainty, as it was true, almost half of Lordaeron was destroyed in a war and then brought back through mysterious means. The sin’dorei were chased from their capital, and yet their king was a creature from a ghost story and so many others were as well. However, mortals joined hands with them to save everyone from a group that would have sacrificed everyone in the name of the Light.
It was a hard pill to swallow, but it was one that needed to be.
Uther sat with the discs of Tyr to learn from them in the time they had to rest, and the lessons reflected on the importance of strength in leadership. The discs asked what the most powerful weapon in the universe was at the beginning of their final lesson. Uther said it was love, and the disc said that it was incorrect, as love was merely an aspect of the true answer, which was in fact influence. Love was simply a byproduct of influence. And inner strength also manifested in outer strength.
Uther sat in awed silence for a long time.
Remnii’s time with the discs was somewhat strange, as to Remnii, wisdom was temperance and learned experience and communion with others. It was, in many ways, the harmony of the self. The disc’s perception of wisdom had layers, as to understand someone was to know it. Likewise, understanding how the cosmos itself turned, was to know it. The discs used the approach of using understanding to know everything. There were patterns to be recognized from the base instinct of an animal to the understanding of the cosmos, but sometimes there were things that broke those patterns. All living creatures were beholden to an infinite spiral of understanding, and the things that must be safeguarded against were the things that defied the pattern.
Remnii’s lesson too came with a question: if she was confronted with someone with whom understanding was impossible, what would she do?
She answered she would continue to pursue understanding, as otherwise she would buckle under the unknown. The disc stated the answer was adequate as it was attributed with 70% correctness. However, there were beings in the world who were beyond understanding and insight, and it was wisdom in guarding one’s soul against them, as the moment she understood them was the moment they won.
