(2023-03-21) Moa'ki Harbor

Details

Author:	Luridel
Summary:	Jocoza, Dane, Colson, Mordecai, Caspis, Ralaea, and Paluuva meet up with Argent Crusaders Vond and Etone in Moa'ki Harbor to discuss current events. Afterwards, Ralaea travels to Valiance Keep with Colson and Mordecai. ~18k words.
Rating:	T for Teen

Arc: Season 9

+ Show additional content warnings

stalking, contains death knight (in the distance), discussion of grief, Azeroth-typical racism, discussion of undead personhood (Death Knights and Forsaken), mention of past abuse, mention of past self-harm

In Unu’pe, by the docks…

[Dane]: Hullo', then.

[Caspis]: Mordecai Aspenwood.

Caspis bows before Mordecai.

Dane nods to Mordecai in greeting.

Mordecai smiles and gives them a small wave. "Hello…"

[Caspis]: Will Cressidha and Colson Aspenwood be joining us?

Dane grunts and gestures to Caspis.

Mordecai nods. "I don't know about Cressidha, but Colson's…" He squints towards the hill in Unu'pe.

[Mordecai]: He should be here soon.

Dane briefly glances over his shoulder before turning back to Mordecai. "On his way, is he?"

[Caspis]: She would wish to accompany him, surely? *His ears lift*

[Dane]: I'd have her rest, truth be told. She's been carrying more than her fair share of weight lately.

Mordecai nods to Dane and shrugs to Caspis. "I-I didn't ask."

Caspis's ears droop.

[Dane]: Either f'you acquainted with the Argents we're to meet?

Caspis shakes his head slightly.

Atley eyes Mordecai up and down.

[Mordecai]: Um, who are we meeting?

[Dane]: I do not know. I know that I've not met them.

[Dane]: Only briefly met Sir Sevastyn Black.

Caspis, it's a fair bet, has next to no idea what's going on. Or what year it is. He is probably at least aware that they are in Northrend.

[Mordecai]: Oh. I've met… a few?

Mordecai shrugs. Who knows who'll be there.

Dane grunts. "'Sides from the battle of Light's Hope, f'course."

Caspis stares off into the distance.

Caspis murmurs something in Darnassian toward the sky.

Dane briefly glances sidelong. "The villages are quaint. We'll be headed to wot' I'm told's the largest tuskarr village on the continent, or somming' close to it."

[Dane]: They're not much for cities like us.

Mordecai nods thoughtfully.

Caspis's hair blows dramatically in the chill sea breeze as he gazes at the face of his goddess.

Dane looks to Caspis. "Say somming', did you."

[Caspis]: mmm? Did I speak aloud…?

Dane grunts in the affirmative.

Caspis turns obediently toward his commanding officer.

Mordecai nods. Small nod.

[Caspis]: Ah, to translate… er…

Caspis thinks.

[Caspis]: …like a… silken… veil? ..over the face of Elune. I referred to the…

Caspis gestures toward the aurora.

[Dane]: Those lights.

Caspis nods.

Mordecai looks up at the sky.

[Dane]: You've a name for them?

[Caspis]: They called it… [beautiful Darnassian phrase]. …Dawn of the north?

Dane grunts.

[Dane]: Just know them as the lights, myself.

[Mordecai]: It's pretty.

[Caspis]: There is a great deal of beauty to be found in this land. I hope at least some of it survives.

Dane grunts and glances back towards Unu'pe, but past it, towards the tundra.

[Dane]: Sure is a hard bloody land. I must admit, that jungle we saw caught my curiosity.

[Dane]: I'd expected to see a barren desert here 'fore a thriving woodland.

[Caspis]: Mine as well. I have no memory of it.

[Caspis]: We must have taken a different path.

[Mordecai]: I wish it were a little safer to just… wander.

Dane grunts. "I miss horse riding with Ivri. I'd like to get more in 'fore she starts to show. We'll secure the frontier soon enough, I warrant."

Caspis looks reverent at the mention of Ivri and Showing.

[Mordecai]: I've written back to ask for some of my medical textbooks to be sent over, but I'm not sure what state they'll arrive in, with the mail…

[Caspis]: Ah, yes. I received… what I believe was a letter from my daughter.

Dane grimaces. "I hear it's a nuisance at the moment."

[Mordecai]: I'm not… it really isn't my specialty, as a doctor.

Dane side-eyes Caspis. "Good news, I hope, if legible."

[Mordecai]: You couldn't read it?

[Caspis]: It… is difficult to say.

[Caspis]: It arrived in liquid form. In a bottle.

[Dane]: …Wot'.

[Mordecai]: …

Caspis shrugs. Who knows?

Mordecai stares.

Dane … grunts.

[Mordecai]: Did… you drink it?

[Caspis]: I did not. Should I have?

[Mordecai]: Probably not.

[Dane]: Pour t'out on some parchment, p'raps.

Atley salutes Jocoza with respect.

[Dane]: Captain.

Jocoza salutes Dane back. "Sir Atley."

Mordecai smiles at Jo.

Caspis kneels before Jocoza.

Caspis may be showing respect, or maybe just trying not to loom.

[Jocoza]: Have all of you gotten a chance to ride the turtle yet?

Dane grunts. "So, anything we ought to know 'fore meeting these argents?"

[Mordecai]: Not yet, no…

[Caspis]: Ride the…

[Colson]: No, not yet.

Caspis blinks.

Dane shakes his head. "Not I, though I have seen them about."

Mordecai looks out to sea for turtles.

[Dane]: They're bloody massive. Fortress sized.

[Jocoza]: They seem to be quite friendly, as turtles go. I've seen no snapping.

[Caspis]: I have heard of such things, but never seen one.

Colson seems as neutral about fortress turtles as anything else.

Mordecai mumbles to Colson, "Should I be wearing my tabard?" This only just seems to have occurred to him.

[Caspis]: I wear mine at all times, if only to avoid the wrath of the local humans.

[Jocoza]: Oh, possibly, yes. And what to know about the Argents… hm… Ben speaks very highly of the pair we're out to meet?

Dane grunts.

[Caspis]: Colson Aspenwood… is your sister unwell?

Caspis looks droopy-eared at the thought.

Mordecai looks down. He is not wearing a tabard.

[Colson]: Hm? No, she is quite well, thank you.

[Caspis]: But she will not be joining us?

[Colson]: Not so far as I am aware, no.

[Caspis]: Ah I see. *eardroop*

[Dane]: I know her and Ivri were speaking of maternity clothes. Could be wot' they're up to, now.

[Colson]: She has some commission work that she is working on that I expect her to be seeing to, yes.

[Caspis]: Maternity Clothes? *He says this like he is assuming Sacred Ritual*

Colson inclines his head. "Yes."

[Jocoza]: Oh, you know. For the belly.

[Dane]: Mm, aye. Somming' to fit Ivrianna once she's a belly.

Caspis looks awed.

Mordecai mumbles, "I think my tabard's hanging up in the wardrobe… in the room."

[Dane]: Somming' warm as well, knowing this place.

Jocoza nods at Dane. Same thoughts.

Dane glances around and itches his chin.

[Caspis]: Surely the child will not be born in this forsaken land…?

Colson leans closer to Mordecai, smiling faintly. "You will be with us. I expect we have enough of the tabard to make it clear."

Dane scoffs with amusement at Caspis, his gruff eyes shining with faint mirth. "Dunno' if it can be helped at this point."

Mordecai nods, looking embarrassed.

[Dane]: I warrant we'll have the portals activated 'fore the baby arrives.

[Colson]: Would you care for mine? *Colson asks in a low voice to Mordecai.*

[Jocoza]: It's nine months, right? Surely she'll be able to get home before then.

[Mordecai]: N-no thank you, that's all right.

[Caspis]: And a portal would be… safe? While she is blessed?

[Colson]: We will have to be very certain they are stable for it, but hopefully we will solve that problem before it comes to that.

Dane grunts and shakes his head at Caspis. "Not until Gwenivene of the Kirin Tor herself confirms their safety."

Caspis nods.

Colson nods at Dane.

[Dane]: I'd not have Ivri use them in her current state, as scrambled as things are.

[Caspis]: I am so pleased that El— *He stops.* That… fate has blessed you in this manner, shan'var.

[Jocoza]: Way things are going now, she might go in pregnant and come out with a teenager.

A GIANT TURTLE arrives at the dock.

[Colson]: Oh.

[Dane]: I'm obliged, Caspis.

Mordecai stares at the turtle.

Caspis looks confused suddenly. Who decides when humans am preggo?

Dane blinks at Jocoza.

Colson looks at the turble with a mild expression.

[Jocoza]: All aboard the turtle!

[Dane]: Big bastard, innit'.

Dane glances down and all around.

Mordecai mumbles, "Oh, wow…" Big turtle.

[Colson]: It is rather spacious.

Caspis murmurs to the turtle in Darnassian.

[Dane]: I've not seen the likes of a turtle this size since the Second War.

[Caspis]: How peculiar… it does not mind at all.

[Jocoza]: Maybe it enjoys swimming to and fro?

[Caspis]: It… enjoys this, yes. What a peculiar creature.

Mordecai leans out over the front of the… turtle.

Colson follows with Mordecai as they go to the front.

Dane side-eyes Aumanil. "I'd get irritated with being teased so much."

[Colson]: Oh? I expect given your marriage to Lady Atley that it would be rather the opposite.

[Caspis]: There is a… playful quality about it. I think it sees it as a game?

Colson says. Was that…a joke? Maybe.

Mordecai laughs quietly.

[Caspis]: It is… very patient, and very certain it will win.

Dane grunts mildly at Colson.

[Jocoza]: Well, that's nice. I'm glad to hear it's happy, Caspis.

Colson smiles faintly back at Dane, with a lightning fast wink.

[Mordecai]: They probably give it the carrots when it gets to its destination. I hope.

[Dane]: The tuskarr are not the sort to brutalize their beasts.

[Jocoza]: They don't seem so to me, no.

Aumanil smiles and speaks in broken common. "Yes, turtle happy, very happy. Turtle friend, very friend."

[Caspis]: Ah, that must be the "victory" it foresees.

[Colson]: Hm.

Dane grunts at Aumanil.

[Caspis]: This is the strangest ride I have ever taken.

[Dane]: Properly strange, aye.

[Dane]: Smooth.

[Jocoza]: And here we are in the Dragonblight!

Colson looks at the sky, noting it.

Mordecai 's hood blows back in the breeze as the turtle approaches the shore.

Dane squints at this new land with a set jaw.

[Caspis]: A close second place would be when I, as a young druid, pounced on a giant roc in saber form.

[Dane]: A wot', then?

[Jocoza]: A rock?

Colson holds out a hand as they get off the ramp for Mordecai.

[Caspis]: Ah, a… bird.

Mordecai takes Colson's hand.

[Jocoza]: A bird called a rock. Huh.

[Dane]: Hm.

Dane lifts a brow.

[Dane]: Does seem to be a larger village than Unu'pe or Kaskala.

[Caspis]: I heard the word used for a very similar bird in Outland.

Colson blinks.

[Colson]: Miss Westwind?

[Caspis]: So I assume it is the correct Common term?

Atley peers at Ralaea searchingly.

Jocoza waves at Ralaea.

[Ralaea]: Hmm? Oh. There are…a lot of you.

Colson raises a hand in greeting to Ralaea. "Ralaea. Good evening."

[Jocoza]: Oh, I almost missed you there, Rae!

[Dane]: Hullo', then.

Caspis bows before Ralaea.

[Ralaea]: Did something happen?

Mordecai smiles faintly and gives Rae a little wave.

[Caspis]: I am Caspis Silvershade, of the Blue Squad, of Cobalt Company.

Ralaea nods to Mordecai.

[Dane]: Not yet. We've come to meet crusaders.

[Ralaea]: Oh?

Dane grunts.

[Jocoza]: The Argent Crusade, to be particular.

Dane grunts.

[Dane]: Wot' brings you here?

[Jocoza]: You've worked with them a fair amount, haven't you?

[Ralaea]: I saw some things on the turtle…boat…the first trip over and wanted to confirm. But…if you're meeting someone…mind if I join in?

Caspis converses quietly with the dockmaster.

[Mordecai]: You're welcome to.

Mordecai looks at Jo for confirmation.

Kanosak calmly engages Caspis in conversation.

[Caspis]: The turtles are called Walker of Waves and Green Island.

Caspis informs the others.

Dane grunts.

Colson just waits for Jo's decision.

[Jocoza]: Certainly, join us!

[Dane]: Mm? Which did we just ride on?

[Caspis]: Walker of Waves.

[Jocoza]: Oh really? *Jo smiles at Caspis* Those are lovely names.

Dane grunts.

[Caspis]: Mm.

Ralaea briefly eyes Colson but keeps quiet.

[Jocoza]: They'll probably be at the inn… we can head there and wait for them? It'll be warmer in there, too.

[Mordecai]: All right…

Dane grunts and follows Jocoza.

[Jocoza]: So Rae, what were you coming to confirm?

Dane nods to some fishing tuskarr. "Lads."

Caspis seems to follow Dane automatically without looking directly at him. A sort of autofollow, if you will.

[Ralaea]: Some shipwreck we saw on the way over. Lordaeron flags.

Dane blinks over at Ralaea.

[Jocoza]: Ah, I saw those. They looked old.

[Dane]: Saw on the way over from where?

Dane faintly widens his green eyes.

[Ralaea]: Between here and the Fjord.

Colson frowns faintly. "That would be likely from the first expedition here, years ago then."

Caspis's gaze is distant. He hums quietly to himself; his voice is very low, slightly gravelly, and more than slightly out of tune.

Dane slowly shifts to staring forward, as if hearing of a ghost.

[Colson]: The former Prince's forces.

[Dane]: I've a mind to see those myself…

Dane runs his tongue along his teeth as he pulls a Caspis and zones out.

Mordecai stops at the flight master to update his passport.

Caspis peers at Emissary Skyhaven searchingly.

Atley glares angrily at Envoy Ripfang.

[Dane]: Greenskin. Thought I smelled somming'…

Dane growls quietly under his breath.

Colson clears his throat.

Caspis wanders off…

[Jocoza]: It makes sense they're trying to make friends with the Tuskarr too.

[Ralaea]: If you can smell orc under all the fish and incense I am impressed.

[Colson]: It is neutral territory, as I understand it.

Caspis and Emissary Skyhaven share a very long, quiet embrace.

[Dane]: P'raps to see where they stand on gorging themselves on demon blood…

[Jocoza]: The blood elves at least seem to be on decent terms with them.

Caspis then wanders back to the rest of the group.

[Dane]: Mate of yours, Caspis?

Dane asks, eyes still on Envoy Ripfang.

[Caspis]: No. A dear friend from long ago.

Dane grunts.

[Colson]: Ah.

Mordecai rubs the back of his neck and steps outside.

Colson steps back with him.

[Jocoza]: Well okay, if you're that wary of the orc…

Caspis resumes "autofollowing" Dane.

[Mordecai]: Hm?

Caspis is clearly deep in thought about something very far away and long ago.

[Jocoza]: There's a hut below that might be more comfortable?

Colson doesn't seem to have any particular feelings about the location, but he follows Jo.

[Dane]: I'd prefer one without a jabbering black blood.

Atley peers at Satterly searchingly.

Jocoza waves at Satterly.

Dane immediately looks to Etone's ears.

Vond was definitely over here landing with Etone right in front of the chieftain's hut. Why is a goblin overseeing this? Best not to ask too many questions.

Etone has them very much covered with hair and a thick scarf.

[Dane]: T'd be them, then, I wager.

Dane does not notice ears.

[Jocoza]: Vond Satterly and Etone Greennote? *Jo smiles* I do recognize you, but I don't know that we've been formally introduced.

Mordecai says quietly, "Oh."

Caspis gazes into the far distance.

Vond blinks out across the small crowd gathered, all facing the landing, with a look of mild surprise. At his name, he looks down. "Y—yes? That'd be us. Cobalt?"

[Jocoza]: I'm Captain Jocoza Sparkwire, as promised. I've come together with a few others. I do hope that's alright.

Dane grunts.

Colson inclines his head politely.

Caspis returns to Azeroth at the word "cobalt" and attempts to tune into what's going on.

Ralaea hangs back and examines them.

Mordecai is the only one here without a tabard and he looks a little awkward about it.

[Caspis]: I am Caspis Silvershade, of the Blue Squad of Cobalt Company.

Vond flicks a look among the encroaching figures with a look that borders on something searching for recognition that doesn't quite complete. Possibly he'd seen some of them at Quel'danas, or Light's Hope.

Caspis bows down graciously.

[Colson]: Colson of House Aspenwood, Holy Paladin, of Cobalt Company. It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. *He bows formally to both Satterly and Etone.*

[Dane]: Sir Dane Atley.

[Mordecai]: Oh. Um. Are we - I'm Chaplain Mordecai Aspenwood.

[Mordecai]: H-hello.

[Vond]: Captain Sparkwire, Caspis Silvershade, good to meet you and yours. Forgive being given pause, I don't suppose I was expecting quite a meeting.

Dane nods to the crusaders. He is recognizable from both Quel'danas the Light's Hope activities.

[Jocoza]: Oh, I put it about that I was going to come talk to you about the Nexus and things, and they were all keen to come talk with you.

Ralaea doesn't bother introducing herself, and she stays well behind the others.

Caspis is not recognizable from anywhere.

[Jocoza]: Shall we settle in the inn? Or in the hut down the hill, if the ambassadors in there trouble anyone?

Colson was at Light's Hope Battle. And is partially responsible for Satterly being there. But he doesn't seem to recognize the man.

Might be the lack of blood.

Vond nods in turn to others, the look focusing in studiously on person to person. Of course, he probably would not be remembered as the crumpled body among many. "Down a ways would probably be best," he answers with a look to Etone for confirmation.

Dane grunts.

Etone perks an eyebrow while puffing against his muffler. "Oh- 's the two from Ironforge - yea had a cute green shirt last we spoke." The redhead flicks a finger toward Mordecai before pulling down his muffler to reveal a brief toothy grin.

[Vond]: Appreciate you all coming out for a word, really we do.

Mordecai immediately blushes and gives Etone a small little wave.

[Jocoza]: Oh, excellent, so we don't all start as strangers. *Jo beams*

Caspis's gaze, located above the others' heads as it is, starts to drift back off into the far distance.

Colson raises his brows, but inclines his head to Etone. Does he recognize him? Possibly, possibly not. Impossible to tell by his expression.

[Mordecai]: I-I didn't think you'd remember.

Vond blinks at Etone. "You've met already? Here I was expecting to be among strangers without Ben or Sir Ference about."

Dane squints faintly at Vond, thoughtfully working his jaw.

[Jocoza]: Let's head down then. If you all don't mind, I'd like to sit down. Talking like this is likely to strain my neck.

[Mordecai]: Once. Well, twice. We were at the Sunwell.

Mordecai immediately turns to follow Jo. "Of-of course."

[Colson]: Of course.

Vond looks about. "We'd met a couple others of your folk out toward the Fjord's well. Let's on then—mn."

Caspis isn't looking directly at Atley, but as the man turns to go, he automatically follows.

[Jocoza]: Oh? Who of ours over there have you met?

Etone offers a light huff and shakes his head before jerking his thumb toward Vond. "Aye lets get somewhere a little less open spaced - an f course I remember."

Dane briefly glances between Rae and the Crusaders.

Caspis stares in bewilderment at the caged crawler.

[Jocoza]: This is cozy in here, isn't it? That's sort of a nickname of mine, too.

Mordecai rubs the back of his neck.

[Mordecai]: What is…?

Colson keeps a hold of Mordecai's hand.

[Ralaea]: At least there's no fish in here.

Vond is giving Mordecai a closer look now that he asserted his presence at the Sunwell, enough to not take full stock of Rae until a look prompts a double-take.

[Jocoza]: Cozy. I mean, I usually go by Jo, just some people…

[Mordecai]: Oh, from Jocoza…

Colson sits gracefully.

[Mordecai]: T-that's cute.

[Vond]: Oh, hah, that's a clever one. Who gave you that'n?

Colson smiles faintly at that.

Dane grunts and looks around at the ground before he decides to slowly settle down on the stone ledge, spreading his knees.

[Jocoza]: Oh… a friend… friend of mine in the Kirin Tor. *Jo smiles, a touch nervously*

Caspis looks around the room as though he has no idea how he ended up here.

Etone walks in like he owns the place - which he does not - and parks himself on top of a crate - again like this was some kind of normal.

[Jocoza]: So, you'd asked about the Nexus, right? I suppose you all have been dealing with dragons out this way?

Dane eyes Etone up and down.

Caspis sits at his usual, and strangely consistent, distance from Sir Atley.

Vond lingers near the arch of the tent, angled that he might have a partial look outward. "Kirin Tor, you say? That's part of the reason we wanted to get in contact with your folk, Cap'n."

[Jocoza]: Something to do with the Kirin Tor? *Jo looks curiously between Vond and Etone* I'm not in their group, myself, but my apprentice is.

[Vond]: We'd heard from the Kirin Tor that there was a change in the winds regarding the leylines, and that Cobalt Company had something to do with it. And dragons? You wouldn't believe how many blue dragons are swarming around here.

Caspis's gaze drifts toward the erratic movements of the caged crawler next to him. He gazes at it intently. He may be sympathetic. He might also be hungry.

Etone hums softly, green eyes silently appraising the new faces.

Colson inclines his head. "Ah, yes. My sister was able to stabilize the rift in the Nexus with a device."

Dane shakes his head. "Why here? The ones we encountered were to the far northwest, in Coldarra."

[Jocoza]: Blue dragons? *Jo's smile freezes a little* Have they been kidnapping mages here, then?

Ralaea frowns a little, but keeps quiet.

Mordecai looks a little bit anxious and twitchy.

Colson glances at Jo, and then back to Vond.

Colson gently squeezes Mordecai's hand once, setting his other hand on top of it.

Vond tilts his head slightly toward Dane, then Jocoza. "I wish I could tell you more precisely what they are on about around here, but the Confessor'n I have not been on the ground for long."

Mordecai blinks, smiles faintly at Colson, and squeezes his hand once in return.

Dane briefly looks to Etone at 'confessor' and nods before growing quiet again.

[Jocoza]: I'm afraid they've been capturing and… well, and killing mages in the Borean Tundra. None of ours, but it's been happening.

Dane grunts.

[Caspis]: Are we certain Cressidha Aspenwood is safe with much of the Blue Squad absent from the Keep?

[Vond]: We've just been given leave to fly in and take stock of the road coming in from the southeast of this region while the bulk of us are pushing toward the north out of the hills, see what's about. We saw great gobs of the dragons by air.

[Colson]: Yes. We have seen the prisons they have built first hand. They managed to get ahold of an Archmage.

[Colson]: There have been no signs of attacks within the Keep, and she is with Lady Atley, who will be sure no harm comes to Cressidha.

[Vond]: All clustering around some form of sky-high structure. I hope we'll be able to tell you more in time, if you don't get a handle on it first. Hear tell your company is moving quickly.

[Caspis]: …I should have asked Anareline to watch over her…

[Jocoza]: That's troubling to hear indeed, Vond.

[Colson]: Sky-high structure? May I ask if you mean that literally?

Etone makes a point to openly stare at Dane a moment before turning his attention to his satchel, rummaging to produce a basket of steamed buns - from the smell they are sweet rather than savory. Interjecting with seemingly little situational awareness,

[Etone]: Hungry?

[Jocoza]: Oh, those smell delicious. *Jo says quietly*

[Mordecai]: Oh, um…

Dane grunts at Colson before nods to Vond. "We've pressed the frontier —" he looks to Etone. "…I could eat."

Vond fixes a look across to Colson, and gives a bit of an is-this-guy-for-real blink that he is probably used to, then shakes it off. "You and your… sister, you stabilized the thing that was causing the leyline trouble?"

Mordecai nods to Etone. "If… you've got enough for everyone. Um." He removes his gloves, tucking them into his belt.

[Vond]: Then you're to thank for our people getting much better supplied. Fish and turkey and shoveltusk is fantastic eating but we're looking at a matter of scale.

[Colson]: Blue Squad did, yes. My sister cooperated with the Kirin Tor in particular with the device an archmage developed.

Caspis suddenly draws back his upper lip in a silent snarl, showing a glimpse of fang. It's not clear which part of Colson's sentence provoked that.

[Dane]: T'was Cressidha, Colson, Caspis, a shaman of ours, Azizia, and myself. T'was not without great effort. We stormed one f'the lower chambers of the Nexus, and met heavy resistance, but bought us some time. It's only stalled, nothing's permanently repaired.

[Colson]: The Nexus is another structure that is currently stretching rather literally into the sky, as part of what seems to be the conjunction of the leylines. If there is another such structure…it would be particularly important to know of it.

[Ralaea]: You've been pretty busy, then.

Etone tosses a snack to Colson, "Here, so yea don't have to pass the basket about mm?" He turns quickly to pass said basket over to Dane. At the moment he seems content with Vond doing the heavy lifting of the conversation.

Dane accepts one of the rolls and nods to Etone before he holds the basket out to Caspis.

Colson catches it with a dancer's grace, but does not seem to be inclined to eat. "Thank you," he says politely, all the same.

[Vond]: As for the structures, they looked pretty tall to me. There's a great huge tower smack dab the middle of the snowfield north of here, and lesser structures with no base, held up seemingly by arcane means above some form of rift in the earth.

Caspis's ears droop, and his brows lower in a frown.

Colson nods slowly at Vond. "That does not bode well, no." That might be an understatement.
Dane looks to Colson at that and nods. "That's wot' we found in the northern tundra. Oddly shaped structures, floating."

[Jocoza]: It sounds like it might be connected, indeed. *Jo frowns* There's still work to do nearer to the landing points, but I expect we'll be here to help sooner or later.

Colson nods back at Dane, setting the snack aside.

Mordecai looks at the steamed bun which Colson is not eating, and then at the basket which is over there. He fidgets with his fingers.

Etone nods toward Mordecai, "For him, I meant hmhmhm."

Dane turns to slide the basket towards Mordecai if Ralaea and Caspis are uninterested.

Colson makes a 'hm' sound, and passes the bun to Mordecai immediately. "Of course."

[Mordecai]: Oh. Th-thank you.

Now Mordecai has all the snacks.

[Vond]: I am told there are many very ancient places of great meaning to dragons all throughout this area, so what the blues might be flocking about, who can say? We aim to look further where we can, for the sake of the Crusade, but there is very much ground to cover.

Caspis finally notices that Dane is holding the basket out to him. He obediently looks into it. Takes a thing from it. Looks at it.

[Jocoza]: Rae, I think in the Howling Fjord, it's mostly proto-dragons, right? None of the blue ones?

Dane takes a bite from his own roll, as if to show Caspis.

Mordecai takes the bun from Colson and bites into it. He shifts the basket in Jo's direction afterwards.

Dane looks over to Ralaea.

[Ralaea]: No, though I wondered if there were other colors. Are these ones…different than the proto-dragons?

Colson passes the basket politely to Jo.

Caspis gazes solemnly at Atley taking a bite, and after a moment, absently imitates him, his gaze drifting away toward the wall.

Etone snorts a brief laugh before taking a bite of one he's got his hands on and hums.

Jocoza leans over to accept the bag from Colson, taking out a bun. She takes a bite and makes a small appreciative sound. "It's as good as it smells!"

Jocoza offers the bag up to Vond.

[Caspis]: This place has been the lair of Malygos since before it was sundered from the rest of the land.

[Dane]: Proto dragon? Wot'?

Vond folds his arms lightly, looking about to say something further, but pauses when Jocoza addresses Rae, glancing across to her again with a light upward nod. "You were with us out in the Plaguelands, weren't you? Or am I remembering things all scrambled."

Mordecai whispers to Colson, "They're sweet. Are you sure you don't want one?"

Dane bites into his bun, chewing thoroughly.

Ralaea nods to Vond. "I was. Saw you around."

Colson looks mildly at Ralaea at that, before turning to lean closer to Mordecai, murmuring something too softly to be overheard.

Vond makes an effort to form a reassuring smile that is somewhat strained by tension, though the words sounds sincere. "Good to see you in one piece and with good people, then. Wait, you were the Rae that Sil mentioned, right? One of 'em that heard the, uh."

[Vond]: Ore.

Mordecai blushes faintly and hides his face behind the bun as he eats.

Dane squints and looks to Ralaea.

Colson eyes the blush before he turns his attention back to Ralaea. "Heard…the ore?"

Ralaea crosses her arms, frowning at the mention of the ore. "Yes. An experience I would rather not repeat."

Etone presses his hands together to make an awkward flying creature. Proto dragon.

Caspis continues eating his sweet bun, but with no particular relish. His manner is of one who has been handed a thing by a parent to eat.

Dane finishes his roll as he slowly looks between Ralaea and Etone.

Mordecai looks at Ralaea, then at Caspis, with an expression of faint alarm.

Jocoza giggles at Etone's hand-dragon.

Vond nods slowly, a look of vague worry furrowing into his brow as he throws a glance toward Etone. "That is one of the reasons we wanted to speak to you, Cap'n, in addition to extending our gratitude for the help toward establishing portal service."

[Vond]: That alone is going to get us farther, faster.

Jocoza nods. "But… the ore? I read Ben's report on that, and his theories."

[Dane]: Talking ore?

Dane growls out belligerently.

Jocoza glances to the others. "It was an unsettling situation, it whispered to them inside their minds. Said that their friends would betray them, things like that."

Ralaea clenches her fists in her lap.

Vond tilts his head, looking mildly uneasy when struck immediately with the realization that word seems to not have gotten around to everyone outside of the Fjord. "Ben had theories? I'm curious, as we've been too far out afield to catch up with him as yet."

Colson frowns faintly, but seems otherwise to have no particular expression about it, looking very neutral at the mention of whispering ore.

[Mordecai]: Caspis… um.

Jocoza looks back to Vond. "Have you learned anything about what it might have been?"

[Vond]: But regardless of what they were, we might have, mn, information.

Dane briefly side-eyes Caspis.

Caspis's ear twitches at the sound of his name.

Caspis looks around as though to discern who said it.

[Ralaea]: Is it an Old God?

[Etone]: Mmnf!

[Dane]: Sounds like that sort of wretchedness.

Dane growls at Ralaea, as if 'finally someone said it.'

[Mordecai]: Caspis, would… you tell them what you told me? About saronite? Even if you're not sure?

Atley peers at Caspis searchingly.

[Caspis]: Ahhhh…?

Vond nods across toward Etone with a questioning look, as if asking him if he might address this point—then gives Ralea a telling wince of a smile at her directness.

Caspis looks around as though he's dreadfully uncertain that anyone would actually want him to speak.

Etone coughs out his snack as Ralaea just matter of fact's it.

Colson looks at Caspis with a mild expression of neutrality. "About saronite?"

Caspis looks to Atley.

Mordecai looks over at Etone to make sure he's not choking.

Dane nods Caspis on, eyeing him with a bushy brow lifted.

Caspis looks to the two Argent fellows, still looking hesitant.

[Dane]: Your input's sought for here, Caspis.

Dane reminds him firmly.

[Jocoza]: Etone, you had something to say as well, right?

Caspis waits patiently in silence.

Vond does not seem to have caught on to Caspis's vague lurch toward a word in edgewise until Dane addresses him directly, now eyeing the druid curiously.

[Caspis]: I was part of the team that dealt with what you call saronite many years ago.

Vond unfolds his arms, standing straighter.

[Caspis]: It was, at one time, spread throughout Azeroth.

Dane sits up. "Caspis is being humble. He's no stranger to this land. He travelled here many centuries ago with his people."

Dane goes quiet and gestures towards Caspis to elaborate further.

[Caspis]: It would be… nearly four thousand years now, I believe. Even at the time, it seemed clear that saronite was most concentrated here.

[Caspis]: We were able to cleanse it from several other areas throughout Azeroth, but here… our efforts… *his ears droop*

Mordecai finishes eating quickly as Caspis speaks.

Etone offers a wheezing breath before righting himself once more, "Well then, there's no beating around the bush about it is there," He seems fine and offers a furled eyebrow and lopsided smirk.

[Caspis]: We temporarily cleansed the saronite, but at a terrible cost. And now it appears to have returned.

[Ralaea]: Cleanse it? Just what is it that it needs cleansing?

Colson frowns faintly.

[Caspis]: It is a thing of profound evil.

Dane 's eternal glare is locked on Caspis.

[Vond]: P—pardon, I shoulda… It was the Cenarions with whom the Confessor conferred on his suspicion, and them who told us of the corrupted tree's well. If you have encountered the thing in ages past, in the flesh…

[Vond]: Then I honestly doubt there is much room left for uncertainty.

[Caspis]: Yes. I was part of the team that went here with Fandral Staghelm years ago.

Jocoza glances back to Etone. "Do you think that's what this was? Saronite?"

[Caspis]: It was he who planted the tree.

Etone offers a curt nod. "Absolutely."

[Caspis]: And its roots touched something… very dark.

[Caspis]: The source, we believe, of the entire infection.

Mordecai reaches for Colson's hand again now that he's done eating.

[Caspis]: It had to be destroyed.

Jocoza nods at Caspis, and gestures to Etone. "From what I heard, Etone examined at least one of White Squad who encountered the ore, from what I've been told."

Colson holds onto it, setting his other hand on top of Mordecai's, as he listens to Caspis with an Extremely Neutral expression.

[Ralaea]: So the tree…woke the thing that made the rocks whisper?

Dane listens with a glare.

[Caspis]: …Yes.

Caspis gazes at Ralaea gravely.

[Dane]: So you and Staghelm destroyed the tree. Aye?

[Caspis]: Yes.

[Caspis]: Our team destroyed it, and that seemed to stop the madness that was occurring.

Dane grunts.

[Dane]: I've to ask, at that time Nordrassil must've been about. Were you lot trying to make a second world tree?

Vond places his hand to his chestplate and murmurs what sounds like a brief blessing or ward of some kind. He nods at Jocoza. "Just so. Lena. Etone was shocked by some kinda impression he got from her recall of the encounter."

Dane growls curiously with gruff curiosity.

Colson exhales very slowly. That's not a sigh.

[Colson]: Miss Coit was affected? *That sounds like genuine concern in his voice, despite the stoic expression on his face.*

[Caspis]: We planted several. Andrassil was the only one that approached the dimensions of a true world tree.

Dane grunts.

[Caspis]: The others still stand in various places, by portals to the Emerald Dream.

Paluuva peeks into the hut. "Pardon me. I hope I am not interrupting."

Dane pushes himself up and bows. "Ambassador. Welcome."

Caspis glances toward Paluuva, his expression grave but welcoming.

Dane bows before Paluuva.

[Jocoza]: Oh, hello Paluuva!

Ralaea looks up at Paluuva and motions her in. "We're discussing Old Gods."

[Vond]: The Cenarion Circle'd worked with us in the Dawn for years, and some of 'em had been out to Silithus, so that was the lead we'd followed up on. The good news is the affects seem to have faded on your folk.

[Jocoza]: Come in, have a seat! The discussion's… somewhat disturbing, but when isn't it?

Vond looks up to Paluuva as she arrives with a polite nod.

[Paluuva]: Oh? It sounded as if you were speaking of the elves' great trees, if I am not mistaken.

Dane scoffs with amusement at Jocoza.

[Ralaea]: And how they apparently wake up Old Gods, yes.

[Caspis]: So the madness brought on by saronite… it is not permanent?

There's a basket of sweet steamed buns somewhere near Jo, still.

Dane briefly side-eyes Ralaea, but remains standing.

Paluuva's eyes widen at Rae's words, and she looks to Caspis. "Is this true? The trees awaken Old Gods?"

Vond throws Caspis a cautious look. "All we can say is that this incident of exposure was not permanent."

[Caspis]: Only one tree, we suspect, may have reached one in its prison.

[Vond]: We also heard what became of some of the dwarves that dug too deep out in the same gulch…

[Dane]: Lost to madness?

Paluuva nods gravely. "I see."

Etone offers a quiet hum, "She seemed to be fine on that front." Vague. He gestures wide in welcome. "Hmhm, quite the interesting topic at hand, wouldn't you say?"

Vond flicks a look to Dane that quite suffices as an affirmative.

Dane reads it as it is and grunts.

Jocoza looks curiously at Etone at the vagueness.

[Caspis]: Andrassil grew much larger and faster than any of the other branches of Nordrassil that were planted. Its roots must have delved very deeply indeed. The others suffered no ill effects, but only cleansed the saronite that had appeared in those areas.

Colson frowns faintly at Etone's response, but it seems likely to be concern rather than disapproval. Then again, with his face, who can say.

Paluuva nods to Etone. "Interesting, yes. Interesting and dire."

[Caspis]: It stands to reason that the corruption was simply so concentrated here that Staghelm's plan was not sufficient. And in fact had catastrophic results in the Emerald Dream, I am certain.

[Vond]: So, this substance, if it is what you call saronite—it is very likely the same that the Scourge hold in heavy employ, and would urge caution.

[Ralaea]: The Scourge?

Colson's shoulders tense.

[Caspis]: They made arrows from an alloy of it. One came into my possession, shortly before the Light's Hope battle.

[Vond]: Those of you who have had direct witness of the look and the feel of it, should prove invaluable in providing some alert to its presence.

Dane side-eyes Caspis.

[Mordecai]: Caspis, you said it was only the raw ore that whispered, that you'd heard of… right? Not… once it had been forged?

[Caspis]: I am uncertain if alloys remove the maddening aspect of it, or if the Scourge are simply mad already.

[Jocoza]: Mordecai, surely you're not thinking of forging something with it, after all everyone has said? *Jo looks concerned*

Caspis turns to look sharply at Mordecai.

[Mordecai]: No. No, I'm concerned about those who already have.

[Caspis]: There are living smiths who are working with this ore?

Vond frowns. "The death knights, lot of em were kitted out in the stuff crown to heel by their former master, and wear it still whether out of habit or for its properties to their own ends."

[Vond]: Some of them may be able to smith it. Living, I cannot say.

Colson's hand tightens on Mordecai's, but his expression is as neutral as ever.

[Caspis]: It is clear that the undead seem undeterred by its properties at the very least.

[Colson]: I see.

Dane grimaces in disgust.

Jocoza frowns in thought. "Maybe it can't reach an unliving mind. Or maybe they're used to it."

[Dane]: With proper precautions, I've a mind to get hands on this myself.

Mordecai gently pats Colson's gauntleted hand with his free hand.

[Ralaea]: Death knights wear it, do they…?

[Colson]: Yes.

Mordecai nods to Rae.

Paluuva nods with a serious line to her lips. "I can confirm that the Knights of the Ebon Blade forge their armor of saronite."

[Colson]: I have never noticed any particular property of it forged up close, but I confess, I was not searching for evidence of such at the time.

[Dane]: I worked alongside one of them, relatively recently. He'd the armor of the Ebon Hold. We'd not heard any voices. P'raps in its forged state it's more stable.

[Ralaea]: I wonder if they know about…the madness part… *She trails off into a mumble.*

[Paluuva]: From what I have witnessed, it has had no ill effect on their minds.

Mordecai smiles at Paluuva. He looks genuinely relieved to hear that.

Vond nods across at Etone. "The both've us have run into what seems to be bits of it making up the arsenal of lesser Scourge we've encountered ranging up the inner bay. Lot of undead murlocs, honestly—can you believe it? There's another thing."

[Dane]: Undead murlocs equipped with forged saronite?

[Colson]: I beg your pardon.

[Vond]: Not the best, clearly.

Caspis's ears droop the droopiest droop yet.

[Ralaea]: Scourgelocs, huh? I didn't realize they had that stuff.

Jocoza blinks. "Murlocs? They're a terror for sure, but…"

[Colson]: They can be dangerous in large groups, yes.

Etone offers a thoughtful hum, "Or does it have anything to do with the whole breaking mental control away an all that…?"

Dane grunts.

[Jocoza]: Maybe? Etone, would it be useful to have one of them examined, like you did Lena? Or… not?

[Dane]: I've an idea, and I don't bloody like it. If death knights wear forged saronite, and they are truly our allies, as they claim, why don't we ask one of them?

[Colson]: Hm.

[Paluuva]: It is not unreasonable to think that the Scourge possess knowledge of how to process the ore in such a way as to remove the corrupting effects. I doubt the Lich King would want other influences on his forces.

[Caspis]: Who is to say that the Lich King is not already under that same influence?

[Dane]: No. The Lich King's not much for sharing power, is he. Unless…

Dane nods to Caspis.

[Ralaea]: You want to ask one? I bet there's one close by…

Vond palms his chin and peers across at Paluuva curiously. "Now there's a thought, that it might not be something they are simply immune to, but that it has been neutralized?"

Mordecai looks sharply towards the entrance to the tent, reaching up to rub the back of his neck.

[Dane]: One in particular's bloody chatty. 'Roper.' Don't see the merit in theorizing if we can just ask one of them outright to explain its uses.

[Caspis]: If it is — as some in the Circle have surmised — the blood of a wounded god — it stands to reason that mixing blood with something else and heating it excessively might change the properties of that blood.

[Colson]: He had training as a blacksmith as a child. He may know more, yes. Roper, that is.

[Paluuva]: He could be under the influence. Let us consider that. Does his behavior suggest it?

[Mordecai]: Not particularly, no.

[Jocoza]: One close by? *Jo looks troubled. More quietly, she adds,* Is this that same problem as before, Rae?

Dane nods to Caspis. "Forging can change magical properties, if done in certain ways."

Vond lapses into a reflective quiet for a spell, seemingly listening to the possibilities being passed back and forth.

Colson's eyes unfocus as though he's trying to sense something.

[Caspis]: As heat can remove infection from the blood of an animal.

Ralaea nods in acknowledgement of Jocoza.

Mordecai looks at Jo, then at Rae. He squeezes Colson's hand once and lets go, getting to his feet. "I'll be right back," he says quietly.

Colson stands with him. "Would you care for me to come with you?"

Mordecai hesitates, then nods.

Jocoza looks to Vond and Etone. "Do you want to examine a death knight? If… hers is safe to be around people."

[Colson]: If you will excuse us.

Jocoza waves after Mordecai and Colson.

Mordecai takes a deep breath, looking around.

Dane nods briefly to the Aspenwoods.

Colson still seems to be searching for something.

Mordecai lowers his voice. "Colson, are you all right?"

[Colson]: Yes. *He lowers his voice.* And we have an eavesdropper, I believe. I can feel an undead, nearby, very faint, the way the Ebon Blade feel.

Mordecai nods.

Etone hums, and offers in a genuinely kind tone, "I'd rather not, if I don't have to - I don't enjoy the thought of what rumors that might spawn." There seems to be more to it than that but it's left unsaid as the Aspenwood couple take a brief leave.

[Dane]: I will, if we must, to learn more of this saronite.

[Jocoza]: Alright. I wouldn't press. Either they have some way around it, or it'll show eventually.

Vond perks an eyebrow and eyes Etone with renewed curiosity. "I'm not even sure if that kind of mind is, mn, reachable in the same way, though the Confessor can educate me on that further. If you have one you do know it might not hurt to ask," he asserts while managing to sound uneasy about it.

[Dane]: I've only met two, first hand. Cannot properly account for either of them at this time.

[Paluuva]: If need be, I can contact a death knight safely. I doubt I could get him here tonight, though.

[Ralaea]: I doubt my shadow knows anything, but he's here all the same.

Colson glances to the side of the tent, his voice still low. "I do not believe that is Roper. I suspect Mourn."

[Dane]: I wager t's worth it. They claim to be our allies, this will give them a chance to further prove their use.

Mordecai nods.

[Jocoza]: Well, you can ask if you want to, but I'm not going to ask anyone to reach their minds. That might be a dark place.

Caspis fidgets.

Dane grunts.

Etone strains to offer a politely positive expression, clearly not pleased with the idea of mind linking - or whatever it is he does - with anything undead. "Mhm… I - mmn."

Vond takes a moment to address Jocoza more directly. "Cap'n Sparkwire, I know I've already mentioned it is good to meet ya, but I did want to set it out doubly on account of all your Company has done. I know I've said as much to Ben."

[Vond]: But pitched assaults with felfire flyin' are not the most conducive to making acquaintances proper.

[Caspis]: Shan'var… I know you believe your mate can watch over Cressidha Aspenwood, but I find myself increasingly concerned that she is there without the rest of her squad. I have little else of use to impart - may I be dismissed to return to the Keep?

Mordecai puts his gloves back on, because it's cold out here. He seems to be relieved to have fresh air again, even if it's fish-scented, after being in a small hut with a lot of people.

[Jocoza]: Oh! Thank you. I do remember you two from the Light's Hope Chapel battle as well. It certainly was a time. And I think you were at the Sunwell? I was not there myself, but we had people there.

Caspis peers at Atley searchingly.

Dane looks to Caspis and grunts, inclining his head. "Your wisdom's been of use here. Travel well, Caspis, you are dismissed."

[Paluuva]: It was good to see you again, Caspis. I hope we have a chance to speak again soon.
Caspis almost bumps his head on the sloping wall of the hut.

Caspis stands at attention and salutes.

[Jocoza]: Take care, Caspis. *Jo smiles at him in a friendly way.*

Dane pushes himself up and salutes Caspis.

Ralaea nods at Caspis.

[Caspis]: Elune light your paths.

Atley salutes Caspis with respect.

[Vond]: Yes, to both. Caspsis Silvershade, mn, thank you for telling of what you'd seen.

[Caspis]: Contact me if I can ever be of assistance.

Caspis wanders off.™

Mordecai nods to Caspis as he passes by.

[Vond]: Light's Hope was what I spoke to Ben on exactly, after seeing his, mn, his book. It could've been worse. Your lot were there when not many were. That counts and counts greatly.

Dane looks to Vond and grunts, setting his jaw.

[Ralaea]: I wouldn't have been anywhere else.

[Jocoza]: For my part I never felt right, not helping you all during the Third War. *Jo's expression goes a little pensive.* We had our own problems at the time, but… I've always regretted that. I'm glad I could help, this time.

Vond nods across toward Etone. "Confessor'n I, we're going to be scouting 'round where we can while the main force is movin', and we hope we can offer your folk at least one additional point of contact with the Crusade when cooperation would prove reasonable."

Dane grunts and up-nods. "Where's it the Crusade's focused on particularly now? Here, somewhere in Dragonblight?"

[Jocoza]: I would appreciate that, from both of you. *Jo looks up at Vond.* The Crusade has always been a valuable ally, and Ben speaks highly of you both.

Vond looks back to Jocoza with a thoughtful look. "There is nothing to trouble yourself over. Your people took on trials most've us couldn't have imagined before the third war."

[Paluuva]: I would be glad to work alongside the Argent Crusade again.

Vond gives his head a light shake to Dane. "Not yet, but soon. The march is heading northward through the inner hills and are expected to reach the Dragonblight out toward that direction. We wanted to convey a small bit of what we've encountered."

[Vond]: In the interest of that mutual goodwill.

Dane nods once. "And wot' news of Fordring? Has he made landfall?"

[Ralaea]: Seen him.

Dane side-eyes Ralaea and lifts a bushy brow.

Etone nods sharply in general agreement with Vond's statement, barely suppressing a tch sound.

[Paluuva]: Ah…yes.

Vond forms another suddenly tight smile. "Oh yes, he is leading from the front as one might expect—now."

Dane grunts in approval.

[Jocoza]: Is there tension there? *Jo tilts her head inquisitively.*

[Ralaea]: I haven't been very impressed with him so far, and I'll leave it at that.

[Dane]: I'll say I don't share his softness in regards to greenskins, or other savage folk, but I will say that Tirion Fordring is the man of this hour, to be certain.

Paluuva lifts her brow curiously at Rae.

[Vond]: I, mn, perhaps Ben could explain better what he'd encountered regarding the landfall—ah.

Vond pauses slightly at Rae, but looks across toward Etone. The stare is almost cautioning.

[Jocoza]: I'm afraid I never really knew him well, exactly. Just, you know, the name.

Dane idly glances between them all. "We came upon him, as a hermit, exiled. Exile and punishment be damned, the world needs him. The last of the first paladins."

Etone coughs into his hand, "Well, it's best to keep in mind the Argent Crusade works to promote unity rather than discord in that sense. Trying to leave the 'scarlet' back south mm?"

Vond hesitates mildly then nods firmly to Dane. He tenses at Etone's words again. "Cor, that's the other thing. You all took the ferry from Kamagua?"

Mordecai seems to still be listening to the conversation going on inside as best as he can.

[Jocoza]: Oh, I came from the other side. Unu'pe. Our group's been split on each coast until just recently.

[Dane]: Blue Squad to the west with me. White Squad to the east, with Ben.

Ralaea waits, watching Vond intently.

Vond forms a tight line of a near-grimace. "You didn't see it then. The fortifications—Light, take great care if you move inland from here. Anywhere even remotely toward the east out of Mo'aki."

Dane squints and shakes his head. "Wot'? Wot's it? Scourge?"

Etone clicks his tongue loudly in his mouth.

[Vond]: We saw them. Scarlets. Lookouts and patrols and armed and with a hard eye to anything that passes. It's… it's shocking how entrenched they look and how many, just from what we saw from the coast."

Ralaea gets to her feet. "I knew it!" she hisses. "Everyone else was distracted by the ships, but I saw them."

Dane nods slowly and grunts, stroking his beard in thought. "Do they seem to be doing anything of use against the rotters? Or are they merely hunkering down in their new fortresses —?" He looks to Rae.

[Jocoza]: Oh goodness. We'll take care then.

[Vond]: I don't know if there is any hope of reaching them, yet. We're going to try, but there may not be time for the kind of exacting painful parleys we needed to get them to open up talks before.

Etone offers a sharp hiss of a breath, "Unaffiliated."

Mordecai heads back inside.

[Vond]: Make no mistake, they are likely killing Scourge where they find them, but be very, very careful. We don't know what all they've been through other than building like mad since they landed.

Colson returns with Mordecai, looking mildly at Vond at the words.

[Jocoza]: If it's like before, they're likely to see me, Paluuva, and anyone else as Scourge as well.

Mordecai quietly takes a seat again.

Dane grunts, then growls out. "P'raps those madmen can serve as a buffer 'fore we have to purge them from this land as before."

Paluuva sighs.

[Vond]: Which leads me to one last thing. The, mn, relative sparsity of heavy Scourge northward of the Fjord.

Colson frowns faintly as he pieces together a possible explanation. "You speak of The Scarlet…Onslaught, as they call themselves now?"

Jocoza nods. "To the east of here, he said. And what's that about the Fjord? There are some Scourge, from what I've seen, but mostly vrykul."

Etone narrows his eyes and firmly repeats himself,"That lot is wholly unaffiliated with the Argent Crusade."

Vond nods to Colson. "I don't know of any successful contact yet, and they signaled warning toward the ferry—I've no doubt they'd shoot if we got nearer the coast."

[Colson]: I see.

Vond em looks to Jocoza. "I've told you of the murlocs, and yes, the Vrykul were dabbling with some necromancy. But we are not finding the kind of thick numbers or powerful undead we might have, mn, expected, those of us from the Plaguelands."

Etone seems firm on this though it's difficult to say if he's actually encountered these scarlet folk or not.

Dane glares and shakes his head. "Wot' do you attribute that to? Are they breaking upon the Scarlet Onslaught before they can spread down the Fjord?"

[Ralaea]: Seemed like there were more in the Tundra, just from the little I saw of it.

[Vond]: Whether you take that as a good sign or worrying… The hills north of the Fjord are actually fairly populated by the living. They simply call themselves trappers, humans mostly, and have a number of rugged settlements that've been here who knows how long.

[Paluuva]: The Lich King seems to be relying on the vrykul to accomplish his goals in the Fjord.

[Dane]: Scores f'nerubians and multiple … necropoli as well.

Dane squints at Vond. "Human natives to Northrend?"

[Jocoza]: I suppose not everyone died in the old expeditions, then?

Vond nods to Dane. "Well, most of 'em Lordaeronian stock, most likely, come up here since there was sparse travel for fortune seekers. Whether there are any survivors of the Prince's fleet that found them, I cannot say."

Dane blinks a few times and shifts in place. "Remnants of the First Legion?" he inquires with a growl of growing hope.

[Vond]: Further into the Hills, we have been warned of the borders of the Drakkari Empire, but the trappers we have met all insist that the trolls mostly keep to themselves and they have been able to settle in peace. It's a beautiful place, honestly.

[Vond]: If you'd be shocked to see it, assuredly I was too. I was expecting worse than home.

Dane dubiously wrinkles up his nose in a scowl of disgust. "Drakkari, mm…" he inquires rhetorically.

[Ralaea]: I'm not here for pretty places, I'm here to fight the Scourge…

[Jocoza]: This seems to be an enormous place. And we've only scratched the surface so far…

Mordecai looks down at his lap as Rae speaks.

[Colson]: Perhaps it would be best then to think of it as what we should attempt to preserve from the Scourge, to protect a beautiful place while we still may.

Etone casually examines the back of his gloved hand. "Why limit yourself to only the one thing mmn?"

Vond nods across to Rae. "That's what we're working for. The Crusade is searching for the best route in to the actual stronghold that we can find, and hear tell, the Alliance and Horde are 's well."

Dane scoffs. "I'm not fighting the Scourge to preserve some bloody flea-bitten 'empire' that's overdue for extinction."

Paluuva frowns a little.

[Colson]: Stopping the Scourge sooner is always important.

[Ralaea]: I'd rather not find out what else the Scourge can take from me.

Dane grunts in agreement with that, at least.

[Vond]: Still, I cannot help but feel grateful to see such a thriving land on the way there. Knowing there are still things worth preserving, even here.

Jocoza shrugs. "Even in the worst places, there can be beauty. It doesn't have to be a distraction."

[Colson]: The longer they have to acquire more to their army, the worse it will become.

[Colson]: Indeed, Sir Satterly.

[Paluuva]: Studying the Drakkari could provide invaluable information on tactics for resisting the Scourge, if they truly have kept the Scourge at bay.

Dane growls lowly but reluctantly nods at Paluuva. "Aye. And I've a mind to meet with these hillmen in time. See wot' their methods are."

[Etone]: Hmhm, I - for one - take it as a sign that some of this land still holds out against the putrid death.

Jocoza smiles at Etone.

[Colson]: Quite so. They will also likely know the terrain better than we, and that can be of great military importance.

[Ralaea]: It's only a matter of time.

Mordecai bites his lip and stays quiet.

[Vond]: You should. Some of them are a bit spikey, but others are friendly, and the Alliance has better resources to build up relations with them right now than the Crusade does.

Dane looks angry and nauseous at Colson, but holds his tongue.

[Jocoza]: White Squad is working on helping establish a fort in the northern Fjord. Maybe that can be a place they can reach out from.

[Vond]: Just be wary of the Kor'kron's hold out that way 's well. I don't expect heavy hostilities as we are all trying to get to the same goal, at present. We don't want… losses, not out here.

[Colson]: Precisely.

Dane's look darkens. "The true enemy here's the Scourge. But if the Kor'kron seek alternative means for honorable death, I will be compelled to oblige them."

[Ralaea]: Better orcs than Forsaken. We know where their priorities lie, and it's not with the living.

[Colson]: A full Alliance as much as possible against the Scourge is necessary, and avoiding hostilities is a way of combating the Scourge before they form.

Dane nods sharply to Ralaea.

[Dane]: 'Tis a fight of the living against the dead.

[Colson]: The Forsaken came to all of our aid before with the Plague the Scourge sent for this invasion. They, too, have done their part in this fight, much as they seem to be prone to…other activities that suggest otherwise.

Mordecai nods slightly.

[Ralaea]: Like plagues targeting the living.

[Colson]: We will defend ourselves, but whenever possible, we must attempt to avoid escalating. We add to the Scourge otherwise.

Jocoza winces. "I just hope they remember to focus on cures not plagues."

Dane nods sharply to Ralaea again. "Just rotters of a different banner. They're fortunate the Lich King is our chief priority at this time."

[Etone]: Hmhmhm, I pose this for you all to mull over. Our entire existence is in jeopardy, do we truly have that much time and extra resources to devote to the old war? If so might they be better suited toward our current situation?

Colson inclines his head to Etone.

Vond seems to have found the good sense to hold his comments over this particular discussion, just watching across toward Etone while the back and forth flies, until he adds his in.

[Ralaea]: If you let your guard down, you'll find a knife in your back. I'm not saying we go to war, but caution is advised.

Dane sets his jaw. "I know the Crusade is gentle towards the Horde. I didn't come here to fight them, but if they think we're going to turn a blind eye to their machinations and schemes, they're bloody wrong. They watch their step, we'll watch ours."

Dane gestures to Ralaea.

[Paluuva]: Just be cautious that the greater enemy does not use that rivalry against us to weaken both forces.

Mordecai removes his gloves again and picks at a loose thread in the hem of his cloak. He's staying out of this part of the conversation too.

Colson exhales slowly. He's said his piece. Or peace. Same thing.

[Jocoza]: If not friendship, at least peace, right?

[Dane]: Tenuous peace, Cap'. T'will have to be enough.

[Ralaea]: As long as it is upheld.

Etone huffs loudly, "Not that I'm outright telling you to go kiss an orc or tauren - or troll - but I'd be cautious without knowing your fellow's reason for wearing the Silver and Gold."

[Jocoza]: Or a blood elf. *Jo nods*

Ralaea shrugs and takes a seat. She's said what she meant to.

Mordecai darts a quick glance around the room.

Vond gives his head a light tilt. "Gentle is a way of putting it, a singular purpose is another. We're out to lay the lich king low for good, without getting diverted into other concerns by one force or the other. That's all."

Etone clears his throat, "I mean - I'd stay clear of any forsaken - I wouldn't trust that lot with my worst sock."

Dane's still glaring, but not at anyone in particular.

Mordecai makes a faint noise of amusement and ducks his head.

Colson looks as mild and polite as ever. If he's concerned, or inclined to trust Forsaken with his socks, it's impossible to tell from the neutrality he exudes.

Dane cants his head towards Etone. "I heard the Crusade is letting many wear the Argent Tabard. Even rotters."

Etone scowls, "I officially have no comment on that."

Dane lofts a bushy brow and appears gruffly appeased by this.

Vond insists gently, as if trying to reassure himself more than anything, "The penitent dead, not the Forsaken, have been instrumental in plague neutralization research."

[Colson]: That is good to hear.

Dane lifts his brows and turns to Vond, inquiring genuinely, though he still carries that rough tone. "S'that wot' you call the rotters in the Crusade? The penitent?"

Etone seems to have other thoughts, but desperately tries to keep a tight leash on himself in present company.

[Jocoza]: It's just to indicate they regret their actions, isn't it?

[Ralaea]: Their actions being…dying?

[Dane]: I warrant it'd be working against all things living.

[Jocoza]: Well, I suppose their actions after that part?

Dane remarks rather sharply.

[Jocoza]: Though I suppose there are some who chose undeath, in which case that's something to be penitent about.

Etone side eyes Dane, it's likely they share some common ground after all!

Mordecai looks at the basket of steamed buns over by Jo, which is not yet empty.

Jocoza notices Mordecai's attention and casually picks it up, passing it back around the room to Colson.

Colson takes it and passes it to Mordecai.

Vond takes a deep breath. "Some of them were enthralled, some of them take a clear eye on what questions their, mn, persistence in this form raises to the living. Those among the Crusade are all seeking an end to the Scourge."

[Vond]: And other dark threats one might not immediately presume those in such a condition to be opposed to, given, ah, the example most have set.

Mordecai quickly takes one - his second of the day - and slides the basket clockwise towards Etone with a whispered 'thank you'.

[Jocoza]: And us among the Alliance as well.

Dane grunts and settles down. "That, I've no doubt. Their thirst for vengeance, that is. Everyone knows there are few who hate the Lich King more than the 'Dark Lady.'"

Vond splays both palms downward at mid level, eyeing to the side. "The important thing here is that they are not beholden to her command, those of 'em with us."

[Ralaea]: Fair enough, then.

Dane squints faintly. "Is that somming' you expect from all your crusaders? To forsake their various kings, lords, and ladies?" he asks, once again with a genuine tone, despite his usual gruffness.

[Jocoza]: Well, I'm not beholden to Mekkatorque, myself. Just, his ideas tend to have sense.

Mordecai eats his steamed bun in many tiny little bites, like a squirrel nibbling on a snack.

Dane gives Jocoza a thoughtful frown.

Vond blinks across to Dane. "That is the understanding granted to us by the high king and the others—to those of us the greater number of whom have lost their former rulers and lands."

Etone offers in a vaguely dismissive tone, "Again, I have no official comment." He turns and offers a smile and nod as he receives the basket of snacks, casually offering it aside to Paluuva.

Jocoza looks out at the star-sparkly sky. "I'm afraid I'm going to need to head out. It's getting a little late for me. But it was excellent to meet you, and to see everyone again!"

[Vond]: People of the Alliance, their faith and help has been and is more than welcome, though.

Paluuva smiles gratefully to Etone, accepting the basket. She politely takes a bun before passing it along to Dane.

Dane nods in farewell to Jocoza.

[Vond]: And I expect that to continue on.

Vond nods at Jocoza.

Colson salutes Jo with military precision. "Captain. Light be with you."

Dane reaches down to take a bun before he holds the basket towards Ralaea.

[Mordecai]: Jo, do you need someone to travel back with you? Or will you be hearthing?

Ralaea shakes her head when offered the basket.

[Dane]: Travel well, Cap'.

[Paluuva]: I should be going as well. I'd like to write to Icaros about the matter of the saronite armor.

Colson passes a Blessing over Jo. "It would be best to hearth, if it set at the Inn."

[Vond]: Thank you for meeting with us. I think we've covered the main things we set out to relay, and appreciate the information."

Dane sets the basket down and inclines his head to Paluuva. "Travel well, Paluuva."

[Jocoza]: Oh, I can just hearth. *Jo smiles* Thank you though, Mordecai.

Colson nods at Jo.

Mordecai nods. "Light be with you." This seems to be directed at both Jo and Paluuva.

[Jocoza]: Thank you, Vond and Etone. And I'd like to keep in regular contact if we can.

[Colson]: I shall contact Roper, if you would care for his opinion on the saronite as well.

[Jocoza]: It seems you see a whole different part of this continent.

Paluuva beams down at Mordecai. "And with you."

Colson passes a Blessing over Paluuva.

Jocoza waves at the assembled and pulls out her hearthstone.

[Vond]: We'd be most keen on that, Cap'n.

Mordecai nods. He's still nibbling away at his steamed bun. "Who made these…?"

Etone nods sharply. "Light Bless."

Dane looks to Vond. "I've another question, then. If the Horde were to move on Stormwind, one of the last great bastions of our people, of humanity, you'd stand by? Remain impartial, non-partisan?"

[Paluuva]: Have faith, my friends. As my people say: Aar-don'sha, ki kahl'dos. In the LIght, we triumph. The greatest of powers is on our side.

Dane bows before Paluuva.

Vond lifts his palm to Paluuva as she moves to head out, his farewell smile a bit easier.

Mordecai smiles faintly at Paluuva.

Vond turns back to Dane, regarding him for a moment with slightly dropped shoulders and slacked posture, as if the very question were weighing him down. He is an Argent and the odds of getting something like this before are probably high.

[Vond]: I know the Alliance army may not always hold us in the highest regard on account of our unorthodox structure'n all, but we do answer to an authority on such matters. It would not be my call.

Etone offers casually, "What you do in your own house is up to you, innit?"

[Dane]: You do not see us as members of the same house? The both of you, would stand by, unless ordered, and watch Stormwind burn and be sacked a second time?

Dane inquires with growing disbelief, but equal amounts curiosity.

Etone clicks his tongue in his mouth in mild annoyance.

Vond spreads his palms. "I ask only that you take our sincerity on the task at hand to what it is, and let our work in the Plaguelands, the Portal, and elsewhere speak for us. I for one was in Alliance lands with the rest of our healers on cleansing duty when that mess hit."

[Vond]: I have no doubt that should evil times fall on the door of Stormwind we would not be asked to sit on our hands.

[Ralaea]: Can't see such a thing happening without the Argent Crusade tearing itself apart. At the very least, I don't think it'd benefit to let either force be completely eliminated.

[Colson]: It is a hypothetical, and one that has no bearing on our current situation. It would be best to leave such things aside for now, I believe.

Dane grunts. "Evil times, or evil folk?" He shakes his head and raises a hand. "I will say, I do not doubt you in your work against the Scourge. Nor do I doubt the Argent Crusade. As I've said, Tirion Fordring is indeed the man of this hour."

[Dane]: If I did not see the merits of this Crusade I'd not have come to meet with either of you.

Vond nods aside at Colson. "I wouldn't speculate on something I couldn't guess the shape of. Just realize we are specialized in a way, and well aware that there are elements that would love to turn us one way or the other or dissolve us entirely before the dawn is seen."

[Etone]: Please understand, I cannot and will not speak for the Highlord, but if something or someone came knocking on your door with ill intention, I would hope you'd know how to clean up. If you catch my meaning. Any of it.

Vond deadpans across at Etone, like really.

[Dane]: I'd assumed we'd the same door, as humans. How many times has our race faced total extinction in this lifetime, alone?

[Dane]: I'll say it does hearten me that Highlord Fordring is the leader of the crusade. I do not align myself with his values, but his individual honor can no longer be called into doubt.

Colson appears extra neutral at that, but says nothing.

Ralaea tries really hard not to make a face at all the Fordring praise. She clearly does not agree.

Vond presses his palms together, looking eager to move past Etone's insinuations. "I thank you for your confidence, if not in every step, then in the goal and the Highlord's intent to get us there."

Dane grunts and sets his jaw.

[Ralaea]: He can intent all he wants. The war will be won by our hands.

Etone shrugs and offers a casual, "Wouldn't know where to begin there. Moving on. I've heard there are some expert fisherfolk in this village, would do to see how these fine folk make meal rations with the local flora and fauna."

Mordecai has finished eating. He fidgets with his fingers.

Vond glances across toward Rae with more approval than anything. "I should like to see how far your determination carries you to that end. All of your folk have been critical in—every major incident I can think of in recent memory."

Dane finally gets to work on his second roll.

Vond pauses, seeming to realize something, and snaps a glance aside to Mordecai. "M'uru…"

[Dane]: We aim to continue that. I've seen enough kingdoms of man burn in this lifetime. I'll be a cold corpse before I witness the fall of another.

Colson reaches abruptly for Mordecai's hand at that.

Mordecai looks up sharply. He takes Colson's hand.

[Vond]: That's where I recall you from. You were one of the ones—yes.

[Mordecai]: Yes.

Etone pinches the bridge of his nose and offers a rather loud sigh. "Vond. Really?" Like he's been the paragon of politeness and decorum all evening.

Mordecai smiles sheepishly. "It's all right."

Colson's expression seems a little tight around the edges, his hand on Mordecai's almost a little brighter, perhaps.

Mordecai squeezes Colson's hand once. He's fine.

Dane glares between the two Aspenwoods in contemplative silence.

Vond blinks across at Etone like what did I do? Then he takes a long blink at the two's hand-holding that is more obvious than he thinks it is.

Colson squeezes back once, and there's a pause, before he gently squeezes once more.

[Mordecai]: Um, I… I actually had a-a question for you, um… Confessor Greennote? Etone?

Mordecai definitely seems uncertain which name to use.

Dane peers at Colson for a moment.

Etone offers a genuine smile and seems to beam stupidly that he'd been called by name, "Mmn? 'f course, please speak your mind?"

[Mordecai]: Oh, I-I just… um. You… cast through song, and I was wondering where you learned.

Dane furrows his brow.

Vond fixes his stare back on Etone as if this is something he might like to know too. "He'd told me he was born with a gift, but I'm sure there's more to it than that."

[Dane]: Some sort'f minstrel priest?

Colson looks mildly at Etone.

Vond quirks a nearly smile. "The Church has a long history of sacred music, doesn't it? Song is a potent point of focus for the spirit, so it's not so strange."

Dane grunts.

Etone hums and shrugs. "Ah, mmn… That's a difficult one. But the Light answers when my call is in song - so mmn." He offers a nod as Dane offers minstrel priest. "Yeah, sommat like that."

Dane grunts again.

[Vond]: That ya have it. 'It just works.'

[Mordecai]: It's not… something I was ever taught, that's all, and I - that is…

Mordecai looks down again. "I just wanted to know if it could be learned."

[Colson]: You did not train formally then, Confessor?

[Colson]: In music, I mean to say.

[Etone]: Ah! Well now, would you like to try your hand in it?

Mordecai glances at Etone and nods slightly. He looks a little shy.

Dane idly glances between them with his usual eternal glare.

[Vond]: Oh aye, he's got music training. Plays a mean fiddle on top of the songbirding.

Vond just calls it fiddle without the slightest hint of awareness or shame.

[Dane]: Wot' are your backgrounds, the two f'you? Lordaeronians, by your tongues, I warrant.

Etone offers a nearly disgusted grunt in reply, "Oh no, I've studied music theory for going on thirty years now. Ask me anything about that - Fiddle!? I play a soulful violin thank you very much."

Etone looks like he's not much older than his mid 20s.

Colson inclines his head politely to Etone.

[Mordecai]: I never really had the opportunity - that is, I-I've never been trained, but I do… like singing.

Vond nods sharply to Dane. "Lordaeron, yes. I left for a short time, when the Argent Darnassus branch was being established, then came back."

[Etone]: Well, perfect! That's all you need to start mmn?

Colson turns a gentle, honestly downright gooey looking smile at Mordecai, his affection easily visible on his stoic face.

Dane nods slowly, thoughtfully.

[Mordecai]: Is it?

Mordecai looks like maybe he was expecting to need to pay an entry fee or take a test or something. Genuinely surprised.

Etone adds as a casual aside, "North of Lordaeron." before moving back to a much more palatable topic.

[Colson]: Do you have any experience or particular desire to teach any of that musical theory, Confessor? With the understanding that your time is, of course, valuable.

Vond looks roughly his actual age, early 20s, so has probably seen all kinds of interesting times at a formative stage. "I think we were both at Hearthglen before the schism broke, though in different spheres."

Dane blinks, and eyes Vond up and down. "Were you with the Silver Hand? Or were you holding the line?"

Etone puffs his cheeks out, "Singing is for everyone! I do seem to recall suggesting it the first time we met too - of course, I'd be more than happy to spread the joy of song~!"

Colson looks at Mordecai with his brows raised slightly in silent inquiry.

Mordecai smiles hopefully.

[Etone]: The Light already answers you, so you've already mastered the difficult part mmn?

Dane looks five to ten years older than his actual age.

Vond tilts his head. "My da was Silver Hand and I was too young for induction before the plague came in. It was the expected thing, given the circumstances, but then they weren't exactly 'round anymore."

[Mordecai]: Is that the difficult part?

[Vond]: When I was a few years older I went back for the Dawn.

Dane nods once. "Did you travel west, with Proudmoore? Or escape to the south."

Vond shakes his head slowly, answering again, "Hearthglen. It was a few years after Proudmoore's departure before I saw daylight again."

Dane grunts lowly and slowly nods. "Truly held out then. Wot' was the name and title of your father? I was a footman, during the war, a sergeant."

[Etone]: Hmhmhm, well for casting mmn I'd imagine so, wouldn't you?

Mordecai considers this. "I have far more experience with casting than singing by now, I suppose."

[Vond]: North Satterly, no epithet. He was a footman himself in the second, set out to join the Hand after seeing what they could do, so I was told.

Etone nods, "Mmn, now imagine if you'd not had any luck with that part yet, which of the two things would seem more daunting?"

Dane nods once. "He'd done proper soldiering his time then, hadn't he," Atley growls rhetorically.

Colson looks over at Vond at that, as if he's seeing if the name rings any bells. It doesn't seem to.

[Colson]: May I ask, Sir Satterly, what libram he studied from, your father?

Vond grins a little at that. "Mum 's well if you'd believe it. Artillery. We'd tease her that she might be part dwarf."

Mordecai considers this. "Both?"

Dane grunts. "Then you're pure bred."

Colson clears his throat at that. Dane, he's not a dog or a horse.

Dane thinks everyone is a type of horse.

Vond blinks aside at Colson, looking a bit startled. "Oh—the sir is surely not necessary nor earned. What libram…? He had a personal libram, I mean." He frowns a little, looking thoughtful over something.

[Vond]: He had one of those real great proper paladin's maces, but not exactly the vengeful streak.

Dane frowns. "You're not a knight? Not even of the Crusade?"

Etone 's eye twitches, it's clear by the pained expression that briefly crosses his face, the redhead is doing his best to thoroughly ignore the other conversation. "Ah- hmn - Right - yes, I suppose they both can be daunting."

[Colson]: When he studied to become a paladin, I mean, of the Silver Hand. Who did he follow at first? Retribution with Sir Fordring?

[Mordecai]: I-I started studying with the Church young. Singing was something I was… discouraged from doing. As a child.

Mordecai shrugs. "So…"

Vond blinks across to Dane with a light shake of his head. "I've got no land, no horse, no title, no proper ceremony about any of it, even. I'd not claim to be a knight."

Etone jumps on this opportunity. "What!? That's ghastly! Please by all means feel free to express yourself through any form of devotion that makes you feel connected to the Light's warmth!"

[Colson]: You are a Paladin of the Light, however.

Colson's hand is warm on Mordecai's, a faint sense of blessing.

[Dane]: Wot' is your status in the Crusade?

Mordecai smiles shyly and nods to Etone. "I'd… like to learn the songs. If I could."

[Colson]: If you would prefer another title, however, or name to be called, I would gladly do so.

Vond shifts a bit at Colson's comment, then regards Dane with a fairly open expression. "Argent Crusader." It's incredibly nonspecific and uninformative. Probably intentionally.

[Etone]: Awful. That. We simply must give you that chance~!

Dane nods once, and seems satisfied with this. "Crusader. Well 'nuff then."

[Mordecai]: I'd like that.

[Etone]: Then let's make time for it mmn? I …

Vond relaxes visibly that the answer was accepted. "Beyond that, the Confessor's aide. I primarily serve as his guard and assistance, with the understanding that I will be joining the rest of our brothers and sisters for any major actions."

[Mordecai]: I've been staying in Valiance Keep, but I-I suppose now that I have the flight path here… and, um, there are giant turtles…

Etone pauses to consider the current events, "Nmm, I /believe/ we're here a bit longer - though mmn, where are you both staying in the more recent of days?"

Dane eyes Vond for a time. "The pair f'you are Crusaders, then."

[Colson]: The inn, in Valiance Keep, *Colson answers Etone.* We have a private room there.
Mordecai nods.

[Ralaea]: Feels weird, hearing the Crusader part without Argent in front of it, given…that there were once other crusaders.

[Colson]: Ah, well. Yes.

[Dane]: D'prefer to think of them as fanatics and madmen.

Colson clears his throat louder at that. "They were often misled by the Legion's twisted machinations. It was not all as it seemed, and some chose to leave it for many reasons."

Vond shifts a bit from one side to the other when stared at for a spell, then nods to Ralaea, "It does, don't it? It's taken me some steps to acclimate to the, uh, change."

Etone casually interjects into the other conversation, "No, I am a Confessor, Tactician, or Inquisitor." There is a slight bite to his tone.

Dane grunts and shakes his head. "My heart bleeds for Lordaeron, forever, but I knew a great many in that kingdom and without that looked down on non-humans, such as our dwarven, elven allies."

Etone turns back to the Aspenwoods with a stupidly bright smile, "Then we should meet there sometime soon mmn? I'd imagine it'd be more comfortable than some random parlor I've on rent."

Mordecai smiles. "A-all right."

Colson inclines his head politely at Etone.

Vond knits his brow and nods slowly again. "I should hope those of us come here of Dawn extraction have shown our commitment by principle and necessity to working with whomever is aligned with our goals and ideals."

[Etone]: Ahh~! what shall we start with mmnhmhm? How exciting~!

[Vond]: I have known many who have been endangered by those to whom you refer, and I'd take them for what they are, rather than as Lordaeronian first.

Dane grunts. "Aye, well, you Argent Crusaders have your eccentricities… But I'll say not one of you seems to mad. T'least not that I've seen."

Dane nods. "I agree with you there, Satterly."

Mordecai flashes an excited smile at Colson. Music!

Vond looks fairly pleased that he's come across as not mad, peachy even.

[Dane]: I'm off back to Valiance. You lot stay in touch, keep us apprised, and we'll do the same from the Tundra.

Colson nods to Dane. "Light be with you, Dane." He passes a Blessing over Dane in a familiar gesture.

Mordecai looks up at Dane and nods. "Light be with you."

[Vond]: That is the plan. Keep safe and Light keep you. We will aim to help your people stay informed enough to do what they do best.

[Ralaea]: Fight well.

[Dane]: I only hope you do not forget that we are the same people, in blood and in flesh, Satterly…

Etone presses his hands together in an excited display before swiftly changing tone, "Light preserve and guide your path,"

Dane nods to Ralaea. "Aye, you travel well." He nods in farwell. "Aspenwoods. Crusaders."

Vond simply nods low. "It isn't lost on me."

Mordecai folds his hands in his lap, beaming. He seems visibly excited at the prospect of music lessons.

Colson smiles gently at Mordecai.

Vond peers across at Etone as Dane departs, probably not having heard all of the details of what he might have just planned or agreed to.

Etone offers a loud, somewhat defeated sigh as the room thins out. "What I wouldn't give to teach music fully, mmn."

[Colson]: Perhaps the day will come.

Colson is clearly an optimist.

Vond quirks his jaw slightly, his eyes softening somewhat at Etone's comment.

[Colson]: Mi — Ralaea, do you intend to remain in the Tundra?

[Etone]: One can hope and dream, mmn? Not everything has to be built up on the worst parts of things.

[Vond]: Confessor, d'you have anything further I'm to hurry you on to? I— *he makes a face slightly at that turn of phrase*

[Ralaea]: I saw what I came to see. All that's left is to decide what to do about it.

[Colson]: If you would care for some refreshments, and do not mind the travel, you are welcome to return with us to Valiance.

Colson extends the invitation politely to the room at large.

[Ralaea]: May take you up on that.

Mordecai runs a hand through his hair. It ends up even more messy than previously.

Vond takes a deep breath, still eyeing Etone. "While tempting, we probably cannot afford being diverted that far west at present. There are still things we need to follow up on before the Crusade heads into Dragonblight fully."

Colson inclines his head politely to Vond. "Of course."

Etone offers the briefest of grins, "Mmn, I'd love to, but as Vond says - we're currently waiting for our next missive."

[Mordecai]: Of course. Light be with you.

Mordecai stands, putting his gloves back on.

Colson moves to a graceful stand, quite a feat for a man in full plate, with Mordecai.

Vond relaxes back a bit. "This spell to rest and just talk a spell has certainly been refreshing in itself! I look forward to seeing what great things you lot are set out to do, if times past's telling."

[Colson]: Indeed. Light be with you. *He passes a blessing over the others.* Ralaea, would you care to accompany us back?

[Ralaea]: Yeah, I'll come.

[Etone]: Do keep in touch, I'll reach out once I've a clear idea what our situation will allow.

Vond smiles aside at Rae. "You especially, you keep healthy, arright? You've come far to get here. All've us have."

Mordecai pulls his hood up. It's cold outside. "You can write to us at Valiance Keep. Thank you so much."

Colson nods politely to the other two paladin priest duo. "If my contact in the Ebon Blade speaks of the saronite, I shall be sure to pass on a copy. Or a paraphrasing, if you prefer."

Etone hums fondly, "I'm quite excited for the chance to sing with you, hmhm~! Ah, I would be curious though, thank you."

Vond perks both eyebrows at Colson. "You do that and I'd be plenty obliged. We're like to come into contact with further saronite weaponry."

Ralaea offers Vond a small smile in return. "Take care. We'll end this before long."

Vond nods at Ralaea.

Colson nods. "If you will excuse us," he says politely, as he starts for the door.

Vond watches them depart with a light wave.

Mordecai takes a deep breath.

[Mordecai]: So, um, our turtle dock is… the one on the right…

[Colson]: Yes.

[Colson]: Have you been well, Ralaea?

Colson glances at her arms.

[Ralaea]: Well enough. Colson…I've been meaning to…

Ralaea glances awkwardly to one side. "Apologize. For…our last meeting. It was…tense."

[Colson]: Hm? *He turns to look over his shoulder, brows raised slightly. At the words, his expression looks softer.* You apologized already, Ralaea. And as I said, and meant, always forgiven.

[Colson]: I am simply glad to see that you are well, and here with Cobalt, not alone.

Mordecai turns so that he can see both of the others and keep an eye out for an incoming turtle at the same time.

Colson looks behind her, a tightening around his eyes. "Do you wish us to speak with him?"

[Ralaea]: You can ignore him. If he bothers you, though, I could probably…get him to leave.

[Mordecai]: Um… it's all right.

[Colson]: I am only concerned if it is a concern of yours.

[Colson]: If you are…consenting to his…*Colson waves a hand elegantly in suggestion.* Presence, I shall not take any action.

Mordecai looks over the side of the turtle.

Ralaea bites her lip, then says, slowly, "We've…been in touch. Recently. I can't look at him yet, but…"

[Colson]: As you know I have my own…rather complicated relationship with a member of the Ebon Blade. I understand if it is not easy to…*Colson makes a faint hmmm sound.* Explain it.

[Mordecai]: I don't think he got on the turtle.

[Ralaea]: He doesn't need a turtle.

[Mordecai]: Oh.

Mordecai leans precariously over the side, trying to see behind the turtle and also not fall off the turtle at the same time.

Colson watches the Death Knight riding across the water. "Oh."

[Colson]: Well.

Mordecai waves. This is a good way to fall off a turtle. He does not, however, fall off the turtle. Yet.

[Ralaea]: He followed me last time as well, when I came over with the Squad, but…he used a potion then, I think. I only saw the ice.

[Colson]: I was not aware that was…something they could do. *He pauses.* Ah. Ice skating.

Colson says that like it makes sense.

[Colson]: I see.

[Mordecai]: Oh. I knew. They can cast it on others, too.

[Colson]: What?

[Mordecai]: Well… I think it's more like they can affect the ice underneath others.

[Mordecai]: To solidify it.

[Mordecai]: Roper did that so we could walk across the ice, when… we were assisting the tuskarr.

Colson blinks. "Ah. That was what Syarra was offering."

[Colson]: I see.

[Mordecai]: Ralaea, do you have this flight path?

[Colson]: Or the one to Valiance?

[Ralaea]: Ah, yes, I got it when I came by with White Squad to visit.

[Mordecai]: Do you have the one to Valiance Keep as well, then?

[Colson]: Would you prefer to take a gryphon to the Keep? It is a long walk, even if…Mourn would be willing to assist with the ice.

Mordecai looks around as they land.

Colson glances at the water as if just checking to see if a Death Knight managed to keep pace with the gryphon over the water.

[Mordecai]: I haven't been to your side of things yet…

[Colson]: Is it any warmer as a climate?

Mordecai takes a deep breath as they enter.

[Ralaea]: It's pretty. And so far…no infiltrating cultists.

Colson doesn't seem cold. He might not be asking for himself though.

[Colson]: Well, that does speak well of it at the least.

Mordecai trails right behind Colson, keeping his head down.

Colson passes by where there are definitely servers. "May I offer you anything warm, Ralaea? They have honeymint tea."

Ralaea shrugs. "May as well."

Mordecai nods to Colson. "I'll have tea too, please."

Colson inclines his head. "Would you care to secure us a place upstairs? I shall be only a moment."

Mordecai takes a deep breath. "I'll see if the balcony is open," he says, nodding.

Colson watches him go with a soft expression, before turning to his task.

Mordecai pushes his hood back.

[Ralaea]: You've…spent some time around death knights?

Colson carries a tray easily, with familiarity, as he sets it down on the table gently. There are three (3) honey mint teas, as prophesied in the ancient scrolls.

[Mordecai]: I've met Mourn, once, and Roper, several times. And Roper's partner, Syarra Sunstrike, who also fought at the Sunwell. Those are the three I know by name, at least.

Colson pulls out a chair politely for Ralaea, before he moves to get another chair to sit next to Mordecai.

Mordecai says, "Thank you," automatically to Colson. He removes his gloves and sits.

Colson removes his gauntlets, with a soft smile at Mordecai. "Of course." He sits gracefully, for a man in full plate.

Ralaea looks hesitant to ask, but she tries anyway. "How do you…find them? I'm sure trust is…difficult, but…"

[Mordecai]: I… think it's very sad, what they're struggling with, although I doubt anybody likes to be pitied.

Colson takes his tea in hand with a mild expression. "I have found Roper to be…much as he was in life. He has been careful in his actions and words, truthful so far as I can ascertain by other means. It is difficult to trust him, all the same."

[Colson]: It is impossible to think of starting over as a blank slate, to disregard the past and the person I once knew. But I do understand that he has changed since I knew him last. That being said, I am not certain I could say the same of…Lord Morningdew.

[Colson]: He was an honest man, in life.

Mordecai holds his hands over his tea. Warm.

Ralaea squeezes her hands together in her lap. "I always said… Well, you heard me. I said if I saw him, I'd put an end to him myself. But then I did see him. And… I couldn't do it."

Colson 's voice gentles. "I understand, Ralaea. Truly. It is not a weakness to find compassion, even without understanding."

[Ralaea]: And then he… Apologized. For…me having seen him. In…a letter.

[Colson]: Ah.

[Colson]: Were you able to…ah, that is, has someone been aiding you with continuing your studies with reading?

[Ralaea]: He used simple enough words…I could read it. And at first I was angry. But I remember what it looked like. His writing. It's the same.

Colson's expression does a thing, as he looks down abruptly at his tea. He swallows hard as his lashes flicker. "Ah. Yes. I know…what you mean."

Mordecai puts a hand on Colson's arm.

[Ralaea]: He's spelling his name differently now, though.

Colson sets a hand over Mordecai's, as he looks up at Ralaea. "His name? Harvey?"

[Ralaea]: The other one. There's…a U in it. In Morningdew.

Colson frowns faintly, and then the expression clears. "Ah. Mourn-ingdew. I see. That was what he called himself. 'Mourn.'"

[Mordecai]: Oh.

Colson sips at his very hot tea. He makes no sound as he drinks it, genteel like.

[Ralaea]: I haven't told anyone…but…I've been writing him back. About…minor things, really. Things we would've talked about, if he were…you know. Around.

[Mordecai]: Are you concerned your squad wouldn't understand why you want to remain in contact?

Colson nods slowly. "And he has been writing you in return? I…there are some reasons why I do not meet with Roper socially, and I do not have a social correspondence with him, but it has been beneficial to Cobalt to have the connection, when necessary."

[Ralaea]: He…has been. And I…I don't know. It feels sort of… I've gone on and on about how much I hate death knights, and now I'm… It feels…wrong, I guess?

[Colson]: The mark of the ability to change one's mind with new information should never be ill regarded.

[Colson]: It can be difficult to feel uncertain about one's beliefs, and I admit to some difficulty in placing my own with the Ebon Blade, as a paladin, but we must always allow ourselves grace to grow and change our minds.

[Ralaea]: I think, in part…I'm trying to forget that he even died in the first place. It's easier to do when I don't have to see him.

[Mordecai]: I understand.

[Colson]: There are times when I speak with Roper that he is so like the man I knew that for a moment…it is like I forget, as well. I understand as well, the temptation of it. It is harder, in writing, to recall the truth.

[Ralaea]: And when you never saw the body…

Colson inhales sharply, looking down at his tea, and tries to catch it into a steadier exhale.

[Colson]: Yes.

[Mordecai]: The two of you were very close, am I correct?

Mordecai finally tries his tea and does not burn his tongue. Success.

[Ralaea]: …I think I loved him.

Colson 's eyes go softer as he looks up at Ralaea. "I am sorry for your loss," and he doesn't seem to entirely mean Harvey's life, but maybe more for the past tense she uses.

[Mordecai]: I'm very sorry for your loss. I understand that complicates things immensely, now.

[Colson]: And now, a part of him still remains. Some of the parts that you felt strongly for, before? *Oh, it's the Paladin Voice. Gentle, soft, and forgiving.*

[Ralaea]: He's almost exactly… *She takes a deep breath.* I don't know how much of that is real. Is he just good at acting? Or is it really…him somehow?

[Mordecai]: Was he a good actor in life?

[Ralaea]: Not with me. But…his father did beat a lot of things into him. I can't really say…

Colson's eyes flicker at that description, a hand moving automatically for Mordecai.

[Ralaea]: When I saw him, he was breathing. They don't need to do that, right?

Mordecai's hand is still resting on Colson's arm, but he seems perfectly calm. "They don't, but it might feel more natural to him. Or perhaps he wants to draw less attention."

Colson drinks his tea, downing half of it before he sets it back down soundlessly onto the table, cushioning the cup with a pinky.

[Ralaea]: I'm afraid I'll rely on him too much. But I also…can't seem to let go.

Colson meets Ralaea's eyes. "Yes. I…truly, Ralaea. I understand, perhaps more than you would think."

[Mordecai]: Do you have others you feel you can rely upon as well?

[Ralaea]: …Ben, I guess. But I can't bring myself to tell him about this. Not yet, at least. Maybe…in time? And… You both. I appreciate you hearing me out about this. It's…a harder subject than I thought.

[Mordecai]: You're always welcome to come speak to us, Ralaea.

[Mordecai]: Either of us. I'm fairly certain I can speak for Colson in that.

[Colson]: Of course. Any time, Ralaea, and that note in the newsletter that Mordecai is available at any time, that applies to anyone, for any reason.

Mordecai looks at Colson for confirmation. And nods.

[Colson]: Ben has always tried to see things from others’ points of view. He may not be able to understand it…as personally, but if you speak to him from your heart, he will not turn from you. He will try to understand.

Ralaea takes a deep breath and nods. "It'll be easier to reach out now that travel has been established."

Colson smiles gently at Ralaea. "Yes."

[Ralaea]: I was…able to open up about this because I thought you might understand.

Colson inclines his head. "I am glad you did so. Your feelings, complicated as they are, are valid, Ralaea. It is alright if things do not feel certain, and if they alter with time, and new information. The Ebon Blade…is not simple."

[Ralaea]: I'll figure out how to tell Ben. I will. …Eventually. And Lena, too.

[Colson]: Will you pass on my regards to Miss Coit, when you next see her? I…she is well, after the ore? As a warlock, well. It can be difficult, when some experiences are particularly trying, with the fel.

[Ralaea]: I will be sure to. We had a long talk, after the experience in the gulch. I trust her, even if we aren't going to agree on everything. And I told her as much, though I may need to say it again…

[Mordecai]: I don't think there's anything wrong with saying 'I know I've expressed strong opinions about this in the past, but I've started to give the matter more thought, and I think my feelings may be changing, and it's difficult for me to process'.

[Mordecai]: I think Ben and Lena would understand that much.

[Ralaea]: Well…good on them if they can, they'd be a step ahead of me. I'm not good at this sort of thing.

Mordecai smiles at her.

Colson seems less tense at that. "She is not isolating herself, then," Colson says more to himself than anyone. "I am glad to hear it. And I am glad she has given you another opportunity to see a warlock in another light. They are not all the same, and community is particularly important in establishing a solid foundation for many.

[Colson]: I was glad to hear that her studies had been going so well. She had some difficulty in accessing the information she wished for, to be as safe as possible with the fel. I know she has concerns about the sustainability of it, and the isolation from her peers.

[Ralaea]: Lena's like me in some ways. A survivor. I respect that about her, and I said I'd have her back.

Colson inclines his head. "I have known her for some time, though we were never very well acquainted. She has tenacity, indeed."

[Ralaea]: How is your sister, Colson? Jenzelle seems to be quite the fan of hers.

Mordecai finishes his tea and sets the teacup down. It is clear he's trying to do the thing Colson does, using his pinky to cushion it to reduce the sound, but he does not quite manage to pull it off successfully. It still makes a faint clink.

Colson smiles gently. "Cressidha is doing very well, thank you. There have been interesting opportunities for her here, some of which have been…difficult, of course, but she enjoys a challenge."

[Colson]: Jenzelle…Halveris, yes? I am afraid I lost track of her in the chaos after the Battle of Light's Hope, but I understand from the roster that she was on the ship with the Company?

[Ralaea]: Yeah, she's out Fjord-side. Seems to have taken well enough to being in Cobalt.

[Colson]: I am glad to hear it. Were you aware of her…ah, unique position with the Company before?

Mordecai tilts his head. "Hm?"

[Ralaea]: After… *She takes a deep breath,* everything, she…told me what she'd been trying to do. About our old squad in the Scarlet Crusade.

Colson inclines his head. "It was an admirable plan, and a brave one of hers to attempt. I am sorry that it was not successful."

[Ralaea]: From what I hear, she was just too late, and she keeps…apologizing to me for it.

[Colson]: Ah. It can be difficult to feel responsible, as a personal failing. *Says the paladin with a guilt complex.*

Mordecai sits there and looks confused and does not ask for clarification.

Colson sets his hand gently on Mordecai's hand. He'll explain later.

[Ralaea]: It's not her fault. Harvey made his choice, and…she lost loved ones too. We only found out after that one of our squadmates was Tabiana's younger sister.

[Colson]: I am sorry to hear it.

[Ralaea]: On the note of my former squad…I haven't heard anything from Commander Mondragon on my end. Any sign of her in the Tundra?

Mordecai looks at Colson to answer this one.

Colson shakes his head. "No, although I confess, it has been difficult to get more information. I can ask Roper once more, but I expect if he knew, he would have spoken."

[Ralaea]: Hmm. She wanted to draw me here, but now that I'm here…nothing. It's strange.

[Colson]: We are still within the strongholds of the Alliance. Do you believe that she has been unwilling to make a more definitive move because of it?

Colson might be vastly overestimating the strength of the Alliance in the Howling Fjord, based on Valiance.

Colson has not seen the haphazard tents of Valgarde or the Pardon Our Dust of Westguard.

[Ralaea]: Maybe. I've also been forbidden from leaving settlements alone. But Harvey hasn't seen her either.

Colson frowns faintly in thought. "Perhaps then, whatever purpose she hoped to draw you into is either further in isolation, or has been already thwarted in some day."

[Colson]: As a commander in life, do you recall her using any similar strategy? A divide and conquer, or other such techniques?

Ralaea considers this. "She's a careful planner… Likes to set up traps. Accomplish as much as she can with as little as she can."

[Colson]: As a commander, one of the strategies that was often important with the limitations of the Alliance in Theramore, we used what is known as retrograde defense, where the task is to deliberately move an enemy into a location.

[Colson]: It's a transitional operation, where the intent is to continually force the enemy forward, until either an area defense, or mobile defense, can be employed.

Colson has never sounded more military like, or more like a commander before, but here he is. Yes, he did used to do that.

[Colson]: Given the limitations of her force available, I would suspect such a tactic.

Ralaea's expression sours as she recalls something. "Yes, well… Harvey's been spending his nights mapping the area. If she's got anything set up, it's nothing nearby…that we've seen so far, I guess."

Mordecai looks at Colson with an absent, dreamy sort of smile.

[Colson]: Have you alerted the others to her appearance? More eyes will not go amiss, in this case.

[Ralaea]: That's a good call. A few of them know about her, but maybe not what she looks like.

Colson nods slowly. "Ben is a good artist. He may be able to help you put together a picture of her. There is no reason to keep her identity secret."

Mordecai no longer seems to be paying attention to the conversation as obviously as he was before.

[Ralaea]: Alright. I'll ask him. I may…set up a tent and stay the night here somewhere. Don't really like staying in Westguard. Too close to the gulch.

Colson has that Knight-Captain tone going, that military bearing in his posture. "The more difficult we make it for her to infiltrate the spaces of the Alliance, the better. At the moment, the Ebon Blade has been a consistent enough ally that she could hide."

Colson nods. "That is reasonable. Do you have sufficient for a room for the night here? I expect there may be very limited choices, or communal rooms, but if you would be more comfortable with someone you know…I could ask if Cressidha and Azizia are willing."

[Colson]: Azizia is a draenei shaman working with Blue Squad on this side.

[Ralaea]: Ah…tents are easier. Less…explaining to do. *She nods towards her arms.*

Colson's posture fades back into the mild mannered paladin.

[Colson]: I understand. If you change your mind, do not hesitate to…well. Change your mind, *Colson says with a faint smile.*

Ralaea's lips twitch into a tiny smile. "If that happens, I'll let you know. For now, though…I'd better get set up."

[Colson]: You do have sufficient, ah, stock?

[Ralaea]: For now. Hoping the portal situation resolves sooner than later, though.

Mordecai is still staring off into space, smiling.

Colson nods. "I still have what is necessary for a short term solution, should you require it. If it comes to that, I can be there sooner than a shipment. Do not hesitate to ask, Ralaea."

[Ralaea]: I don't suppose you could do it without burning yourself?

Colson inclines his head. "I can, yes, when it is not an emergency, I can ensure to have the proper supplies with me."

[Ralaea]: Good. Then I'll let you know if it comes to that.

[Colson]: And I have a promise to another to keep. *Colson says softly, looking at Mordecai.* I will not harm myself if there is any other possible way.

Ralaea gives Mordecai a nod of approval. "Good."

Colson finally notices the dreamy Mordecai and his expression softens. It takes him a moment before he turns back to Ralaea. "Light be with you, Ralaea. If you need anything, you know where we are."

Colson passes the Blessing over her with that automatic paladin gesture.

Ralaea gets to her feet. "Have a good night you both. Stay safe."

Mordecai blinks a few times. "Light be with you," he says automatically as Ralaea gets up.