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| Details |
| Author: | Luridel |
| Summary: | A search party forms in Howling Fjord to look for Alysson, only to have Almeiria Fey show up and take them directly to him. Together with Almeiria, the group attempts to locate the missing two Mondragons, Kaela (the Scourge-aligned Death Knight) and Alynnra (Alysson's mother, but It's Complicated). |
| Rating: | T for Teen |
Silvestre smiles. "Sir Atley! Cole! Mordecai! It's been real long."
Dane hooks a finger into his mouth and removes some chewing tobacco. He reaches for a waterskin and washes out his mouth.
Mordecai smiles and gives Sil a small wave.
Dane grunts and nods. "It has been a time or two, hasn't it. North looks good on you, lad."
[Colson]: Good evening, Sil. *There's a faint smile on Colson's face, as he raises a hand in greeting.*
Silvestre nods at Dane. "You, uh, you too, sir."
[Mordecai]: It's good to see you're well.
[Silvestre]: But I wish it was a happier thing brought us all together again. Any news?
Celaven wanders up quietly behind the Tundra team, because he is totally here.
Dane grunts. "Not of the lad." He looks to the Aspenwoods.
Colson looks at Mordecai.
[Mordecai]: Um… well.
[Silvestre]: Last I heard, was trouble coming this way. Trouble being… *he lowers his voice* …dead folk.
[Mordecai]: I, ah, I spoke with Miranda Wylderson. She and her mother were tracking Alysson and his captors.
[Silvestre]: Miranda, yeah, she doing alright?
[Mordecai]: She, um. I hope so?
[Silvestre]: That's good. She seemed an alright woman.
[Colson]: She experienced some difficulties recently.
Colson refers to dying temporarily as ' difficulties,' for another entry into the Understatement of the Year.
Dane steps forward with a faint squint, looking between them.
[Mordecai]: The Mondragons were traveling east along the coast, passing through the various Kalu'ak settlements.
[Dane]: Dead folk? Coming here? Death *knights* or rotters?
[Colson]: A Death Knight not affiliated with the Ebon Blade, Miss Westwind's former commander.
[Colson]: She persists in serving the Lich King.
[Dane]: Scourge, then.
Dane growls.
Colson inclines his head.
[Mordecai]: Kaela Mondragon is a Death Knight still loyal to Arthas. She's been posing as a member of the Ebon Blade.
Dane smacks his lips. "They do that now, do they. Charming."
[Mordecai]: She's hunting down Ralaea Westwind.
[Mordecai]: I-I believe.
[Colson]: The Ebon Blade has been informed of her presence here, and her duplicity. They will be looking for her as well, specifically. Alysson, however, is our concern.
Dane grunts a 'go on.'
Silvestre looks around nervously. "There's one here on our side somewhere too, right? That's what I heard from Jo, who had it from the report."
[Colson]: Yes. The former Lord Harvey Morningdew, often by the alias 'Mourn.'
[Dane]: Lord of where?
Silvestre looks around, like he might spring out at them at any moment.
[Colson]: A former Lordaeron holding.
Dane grunts.
[Colson]: It is no longer…viable land.
Dane dryly side-eyes Colson.
[Silvestre]: Well, so, we got a lead on where they might be coming in?
[Colson]: He was a…friend of Miss Westwind's, in life, and he seems to persist in that in death.
Dane grunts.
[Dane]: I'm here to lend my sword to get that lad back. He's one of ours.
[Silvestre]: I knew of him, a bit, in life. Kind of pushy, but I think he meant well.
[Colson]: As far as we can tell, her goal would lead her around here, where Miss Westwind is. Searching nearby may be prudent.
[Dane]: Let's get moving. We're running out of light.
Colson inclines his head to Dane.
Colson murmurs prayers as they go.
Mordecai takes out a candle.
Silvestre keeps an eye out for death knights.
Celaven looks over this new land with curiosity.
Mordecai mumbles, "Light, grant us Fortitude and endurance." The candle melts in his hands.
Almeiria sees the group approaching and rises from her spot in the shadows. She looks them over, before limping closer. "Cobalt Company, I hope?"
Mordecai jumps.
Dane sets a hand on his sword and eyes Almeiria.
Colson turns at the voice, a hand going out to Mordecai automatically. "Yes, may we be of assistance?"
[Dane]: Aye. And who's that.
Silvestre blinks at her.
[Almeiria]: Almeiria Fey. I'm sure some of you have at least heard of me. *Her eyes linger on Sil.*
Colson frowns faintly at the limp, moving closer until she announces her name, and his expression snaps cold and Extremely Neutral. "I see."
[Silvestre]: Yeah… yeah I remember you. Wylderson's, uh… I remember you.
[Mordecai]: Are you hurt?
Dane briefly side-eyes Colson before he looks to Almeiria, hand still on his sword.
Mordecai takes Colson's hand.
Celaven watches her warily.
Almeiria nods to acknowledge Mordecai. "There was a… Well. You'll see. Come along." Without explaining anything, she starts limping down the road.
Atley eyes Almeiria up and down.
[Mordecai]: May I heal you?
Colson follows, his face set in a cold expression.
[Almeiria]: Save it for him.
[Mordecai]: 'Save it'?
Dane sets his jaw, warily glancing around.
[Colson]: The Light is not a finite resource.
Silvestre watches her worriedly. "Are you after Alysson?"
[Almeiria]: After him? Why would I… *She glances back at him.* No. I am not "after" anyone. Except maybe the elder Mondragon sister.
[Mordecai]: Are you certain you don't want healing?
[Colson]: We have three healers among us.
[Colson]: There is no need to remain injured if you will accept healing.
[Mordecai]: Please.
[Almeiria]: Three? Good. I will take care of myself, when time allows.
Colson does not point out they also have a young priest and an old priest for exorcisms.
[Silvestre]: Which one's the elder Mondragon again? I know a lot of Mondragons, and most of 'em come in pairs, so…
Dane continues staring at the back of Almeiria's head.
[Colson]: Kaela Mondragon, the death knight, and Miss Westwind's former commander. She is Alynnra's elder sister.
[Almeiria]: Somehow…she realized I was watching her.
[Mordecai]: My name is Mordecai Aspenwood. I saved your daughter's life three days ago.
[Almeiria]: Miranda's?
Atley peers at Almeiria searchingly.
[Mordecai]: Yes. She was dead on the road back to Valiance Keep. She's alive and well and safely at the inn there, last I saw, unless she has left again.
Almeiria scowls and bites her lip. "Northrend… I hate this place."
Dane grunts.
[Silvestre]: Wait, difficulties?
Mordecai nods and seems to accept that as an answer.
Mordecai nods to Sil. "Snobolds killed her."
Colson inclines his head. Difficulties.
[Mordecai]: They're, um, kobolds.
[Silvestre]: Oh gosh. Glad you were there to help.
[Mordecai]: But with an 'sn' for some reason.
[Colson]: Snow Kobolds.
[Dane]: Cute. Innit'.
[Almeiria]: Nasty little creatures, aren't they? I will have to apologize to her. I…should have been there.
[Silvestre]: I have never had the… displeasure. I really ought to go over there sometime.
[Dane]: They're standard kobolds. Only slighter larger. Slightly smarter.
[Colson]: They use some form of shamanistic like magic.
Dane grunts.
[Colson]: They are more dangerous than an average kobold. Be cautious.
Almeiria dispels the shadows!
Alysson is lying on the ground by a watchtower.
Alysson is definitely still alive, though he is significantly more injured than Almeiria, and seems to be infected with Frost Fever.
Colson takes it at a run to Alysson's side, already channeling the Light.
[Silvestre]: Alysson!
Dane growls. "Wot' happened?"
Atley kneels before Alysson.
Mordecai lets Celaven and Colson handle this.
Celaven rushes forward, kneeling by Alysson to check his pulse.
Dane stands and makes room for the healers, glaring at Almeiria.
Colson concentrates, resting a hand on Alysson's forehead. "Alysson, can you hear me?" He says it as he channels a [Holy Light].
[Colson]: Celaven, the fever, please.
Alysson stirs at the sound of his name and blinks up at Colson. A smile lights his face despite his circumstances. "Colson!"
Colson seems faintly relieved, as he continues another [Holy Light]. "Alysson. Good evening." He sounds calm, and reassuring.
Celaven quickly casts a Cure Disease on Alysson, and watches for it to take effect.
Mordecai turns to Almeiria. "You really oughtn't leave your leg untreated. The longer you wait, the more likely the wound is to set."
[Dane]: Alysson, wot' happened?
Almeiria sighs. "If it will stop your nagging, then fine."
Colson sets a hand gently on Alysson's chest, as if to forestall any possible leaps to his feet as the healing takes hold.
Celaven's hands glow with Light and renewing power flows into Alysson, to assist Colson's heals.
[Alysson]: Sir Atley. *Does indeed try to sit up, but is thankfully stalled by Colson's hand.* Well…there was this tower, see…
Mordecai smiles at her. "Yes, it will." He kneels down in the road. "May I see?"
Dane grunts and glances behind himself before he turns back to Alysson.
Silvestre is watching Alysson with concern. "A tower? Where?"
Almeiria takes a seat and allows him to examine her leg, which seems to have been cut by a small, thin blade.
Alysson points up at the tower. "This one."
[Colson]: Then, yes, we do see.
Mordecai takes out his first-aid kit, cleans the cut, and calls the Light to see if it can still be healed at this point in time.
[Dane]: Go on, lad…
Dane cinches his thumbs in his belt.
Colson looks at Sil, and then the tower, his expression grim. "Sil. Can you secure the perimeter?"
Silvestre nods and disappears into the shadows.
Alysson grins. "Anyhow…I was s'posed to be followin' axe Ma, but my Aunt…I have an Aunt, 'parently… said she had to meet some fellow. An' then she started towards the tower, here, an'… I thought, what if there's a princess in there? So I followed."
Dane grunts. He turns to peer at the tower entrance as Alysson explains.
Colson moves as though to aid Alysson in slowly sitting up.
Celaven nods. "There often are, in stories. Less so in reality. I assume there was no princess here?"
Alysson manages to attain a sitting position. "Miss 'Meiria alright? An' yeah, no princess."
[Colson]: She will be fine. Take it easy, Alysson, slow.
[Dane]: She's well. Just there.
Dane gestures to Almeiria.
Almeiria's wound does respond to the Light, though she watches Mordecai work with a suspicious scowl on her face, even as the pain eases away.
[Silvestre]: What happened with… axe Ma and your aunt? *Celaven asks*
Dane keeps his hand on his sword as he repeatedly scans his surroundings.
Colson seems to be assessing any lingering wounds on Alysson, passing another potentially unnecessary heal through him. He flicks his gaze to Dane, and then back to Alysson.
Alysson glances over and waves at Almeiria with a large grin. "Oh. I dunno where axe Ma got off to. But when I caught up with my Aunt, she an' Miss 'Meiria here were goin' at it."
[Dane]: That so.
Atley glares angrily at Almeiria.
Mordecai seems to be quietly focused on his work. He passes an [Abolish Disease] over her as well, hearing that she was fighting a Death Knight, just in case.
Almeiria returns Dane's glare with a cold stare of her own.
Celaven frowns at Alysson. "You were infected with some kind of disease. Was that from… your aunt, perhaps?"
[Alysson]: So I stepped in, is all. Turns out my Aunt's pretty good at the ol' fightin'.
[Dane]: D'she run off to, if you can remember.
Dane finally turns his glare back to Alysson.
Mordecai doesn't seem remotely deterred by Almeiria's expression as he requests, "Please tell me if there is any pain when you rotate your ankle or bend your knee."
Colson nods at Celaven. "It is one of the Death Knight's attacks. Persistent, and dangerous. It spreads very quickly, particularly on a battlefield."
Alysson scratches his head. "Uh…where did she get off to?"
[Colson]: What is the last thing you recall, Alysson, before you saw us?
Dane grunts. Asked and answered.
Celaven nods back to Colson. "I suspected as much."
Almeiria tests her leg. "It's fine. …Thank you." She stands up. "And for Miranda."
Mordecai gets to his feet as well, brushing at the dirt on his robe. "You're welcome."
[Mordecai]: Thank you for taking us to him.
Alysson frowns, trying to remember. "Last thing? I was watchin' the lights in the sky."
Colson sets a hand under Alysson's arm in a gentle but firm grip. "I see. Can you stand? Go slowly. You were badly injured."
Silvestre slides back out of the shadows.
Dane looks to Sil. "Anything?"
Alysson slowly gets to his feet, but he wobbles a bit.
Colson keeps a gentle hold on him. "We have you. You will be alright."
Dane stomps forward to firmly clasp Alysson on the shoulder, giving him a bit of a shake. "There you are. All in one piece."
[Silvestre]: Nope. They must've got clear before we got here. I can try to look for signs of where they went, but without knowing which way…
Colson murmurs a prayer of a [Greater Blessing of Might] over Alysson.
[Alysson]: Hey, uh…my Aunt…is she one o' those…Lick King friends? She said somethin' about sacrificin' me to 'im.
[Dane]: Aye. She is one of the *Lich* King's many slaves.
Mordecai looks at Alysson. "Fortitude." He probably needs it.
Dane looks to Almeiria. "Do you know which way she went? Would the trail be cold?"
Colson's face goes neutral. "She is, yes. She has made her allegiance to the Lich King clear."
[Almeiria]: North. Towards the hills. The only reason we are both still alive is because…another death knight came and chased her away.
[Colson]: Did you recognize the other death knight?
[Almeiria]: Why would I? I have no reason to pay attention to corpses.
Dane squints at Colson. "…Roper?"
[Silvestre]: Uh, that one seemed kind of relevant. Since it saved your lives and all.
[Mordecai]: White hair?
Silvestre peers at Dane. "Is that a name or like a slang term?"
[Colson]: It could have been. He has every reason to be involved. He has made it clear the Ebon Blade will not tolerate the Scourge, but if he had white hair, it was not him.
[Almeiria]: Yes, white hair, but so had they both.
Dane looks to Almeiria. "Was it a woman? A man?"
[Almeiria]: Male, I believe.
[Colson]: A name. A….an acquaintance of mine, *Colson says to Sil.* His hair is not white, though. It is more likely given that description, either Mourn, or another of the Ebon Blade.
Dane grunts, and looks off into the woods.
Silvestre shifts uncomfortably and looks north. He nods at Colson.
[Colson]: If Mourn is in pursuit, and north, Sil, can you track where they have gone?
[Dane]: I'll go with you, if you're able.
[Silvestre]: Yeah, I should be able to. But maybe we ought to let them wear each other out first?
Atley peers at Silvestre searchingly.
[Silvestre]: I mean, yeah, let's go, Dane.
[Colson]: Kaela Mondragon was the one who slew Lord Morningdew and raised him to his current state.
Dane grunts, and scoffs briefly with amusement. "I like where your mind's at." He looks to Almeiria.
Mordecai frowns at Sil.
[Colson]: I would not advise that we leave them.
[Almeiria]: Let the corpses have their fun.
[Silvestre]: Okay, okay, let's track.
[Colson]: Alysson, do you feel well enough to travel?
[Colson]: I would not want to send you to Westguard alone.
Celaven says, "Some of them are on our side. We can't simply leave our allies in danger."
[Alysson]: Sure do! Are we…gonna find my Aunt?
[Mordecai]: If possible.
Colson nods at Celaven. "It is not in our best interest to allow Mondragon to take Mourn to the Lich King."
[Colson]: Very well. We should not delay while we have daylight. Sil, at your scouting.
Dane grunts.
Colson lets go of Alysson, tentatively.
Silvestre nods, grim-faced, and heads north.
Alysson wobbles more, but grins reassuringly.
Mordecai says quietly, "Hello, Alysson."
[Mordecai]: It's good to see you.
Colson seems to be keeping one eye on Alysson. He has lots of practice at this.
[Alysson]: Mister Angel!
Mordecai blushes faintly at the nickname.
Atley eyes Almeiria up and down.
[Dane]: So we've you to thank for saving our lad here, then.
Silvestre keeps an eye on the ground, occasionally noting footprints in the mud and broken grass blades.
[Almeiria]: Hardly. He saved me. I only patched him up as well as I could. He was…rejecting my healing.
[Mordecai]: Ah.
[Dane]: You've not the look of a healer.
Colson doesn't disagree, his expression Very Neutral.
Dane follows Sil in a formation, constantly staying on the right flank.
Celaven frowns. "Why was he rejecting it?"
[Almeiria]: I can, but it is not what I prefer.
Mordecai sticks by Alysson, close enough to catch him if he wobbles too much.
Colson seems to be automatically taking Sil's left.
Silvestre looks out at the tracks on the snow. "Bit easier here, until more falls."
Dane draws his sword and shield, nodding to Sil.
[Silvestre]: …though they just sort of end. Somebody thinking to cover, maybe?
Colson frowns, his eyes unfocusing for a moment, as he holds up a hand in an automatic military gesture to hold. "Hold."
Silvestre looks around uneasily.
Dane gives his sword a spin and warily squints.
Mordecai mutters, "Shield," surrounding himself in a bubble of Light.
Colson looks more pointedly at a tree. "Mourn?" He seems to be taking a guess.
There is a shape kneeling in the snow ahead, bent over.
[Dane]: You there! Who's that?
[Colson]: One of the undead at the least. I cannot tell particulars.
Silvestre takes a step back.
Colson takes a step forward.
Dane stalks towards the figure. "Surround it."
Mordecai mutters, "Shield," again, this time around Colson.
Its head turns, and glowing blue eyes fall on them. As they get closer, they can see it is a male human death knight, his runesword on the ground beside him. He glares as they approach.
Silvestre disappears into the shadows.
[Almeiria]: No Kaela? *Almeiria sounds disappointed.*
Colson examines the figure as they get closer, his hand moving from his sword. "Good evening, Mourn." Very normal. "We mean you no harm."
Celaven quietly forms a shield around himself for protection.
[Mordecai]: Is she still here?
Dane keeps his weapon at the ready, staring Mourn down.
Mourn shifts to hide his left side, but doesn't stand up to greet them. "Cobalt Company. I had hoped to avoid you."
[Dane]: Where's the other.
Colson exhales slowly. "Are you injured?"
Celaven asks, "Do you need healing?"
[Colson]: If you do not believe you can tolerate healing, I have potions in my bag, if you would accept them.
Mourn says: Gone. But…alone. And not headed for civilization. *He eyes all the Light users.* I can manage.
Celaven looks relieved.
Dane glances around one last time before he sheathes his blade.
[Colson]: As you choose, *Colson inclines his head to Mourn.* Which direction?
Silvestre is nowhere to be seen.
Dane eyes Mourn warily, but there's less open hostility.
Mourn narrows his eyes. "You have dealt with Alynnra, then? And…Alysson?"
Alysson hears his name and waves cheerfully at Mourn.
[Colson]: We have found Alysson, *Colson says, gesturing to the Alysson in question.* But we have not located Alynnra. Do you know where she is?
[Mordecai]: Alynnra was nowhere to be found. Alysson is right here.
[Dane]: Alysson's alive. He's here.
Mourn says: Alynnra is the one you should be worried about. Especially if you lost her somewhere. There is a reason she is working with Kaela, and I was unable to determine what that was.
Colson frowns faintly.
[Alysson]: Is…axe Ma doin' somethin' bad after all?
Celaven looks sympathetically at Alysson.
Dane slowly shifts his gaze between Mourn and Colson.
Colson looks back at Dane. His expression is set into hard lines.
[Dane]: We've abled blades here. I count seven, including you.
[Dane]: Wot' say we track them down and put the sword to them.
Dane notably leaves out the member of the troop who is nowhere to be seen.
Celaven says quietly, "This is Alysson's mother we're talking about. After a fashion."
[Colson]: Mondragon is a known enemy of the Alliance, but Alynnra is not. We do not have jurisdiction to pass such a judgment over her at present, with her motives unknown.
[Dane]: If we find Alynnra consorting peacefully with a slave of the Lich King I warrant that's grounds enough to have them both destroyed on the spot.
Mordecai shakes his head.
[Almeiria]: You will do no such thing to Alynnra.
Celaven frowns.
[Colson]: If she is cooperating in full. We have no such proof. We must speak with her, and give her an opportunity to explain.
[Dane]: Alynnra, working with Kaela, a death knight of The Lich King.
Celaven says, "Remember, Dane, the Lich King often uses mind control of a sort on his minions. She may be imprisoned in mind."
[Almeiria]: Oh, I highly doubt that. It is simply a tool gone rogue. I can handle her.
Colson raises his brows mildly at Dane. "So was Alysson. And another manipulated a high general of the Alliance. We must not take action until we speak with her, but it is also true that we must locate them both, immediately."
[Dane]: Then handle her 'fore any more of our people are assaulted, or we will. Mind control or not, these things are dangerous.
Mordecai looks around, frowning faintly.
[Colson]: Where did you last see Mondragon headed, Mourn? You said away from civilization. Across the lake?
Dane looks back to Mourn, himself.
Celaven focuses on the injured death knight. "And Alynnra, a different direction?"
Mordecai finally steps around to Colson's left and reaches out to touch his hand.
Colson takes Mordecai's hand, glancing over at him.
Mourn says: Towards a Scourge stronghold. I do not doubt your company's capabilities, but pursuit would be foolish. I never saw Alynnra. I assumed your people would handle her.
Dane grits his teeth, but nods. "We've not the strength to launch an assault of that size. Not in this shape."
Celaven nods. "Then the other, we should backtrack and see if there's a trail we've missed."
[Colson]: Then she was last seen at the tower by Alysson, and did not pursue.
[Alysson]: Axe Ma was headed for a…for a…what was it? West…castle?
Dane gestures to Celaven and nods.
[Mordecai]: Westguard Keep?
[Dane]: Westguard Keep?
[Alysson]: Somethin' like that.
[Dane]: She doesn't think she can handle the entire garrison there, does she…?
Dane asks basically everyone with a glare.
[Almeiria]: She isn't undead, dear. She can enter as she pleases.
[Colson]: She would not seem an immediate threat.
Celaven looks to the west. "We should probably head there, before there's any trouble, then."
Dane grunts in agreement.
Colson seems to be debating something before he reaches into a bag, pulling out a health potion. "Mourn. We should pursue Alynnra as soon as possible, while we still may. In the event that Mondragon may return, I would ask that you ensure you have advantage."
Mourn nods. "Go. I will watch for her return."
Colson kneels to set the potion in the snow, not approaching the wounded death knight. "For all our sake's, against the Scourge."
Dane eyes Mourn for a moment before he steps past the death knight.
Aspenwood kneels down.
Mourn glares at the potion, and doesn't move to take it, probably waiting for them to depart.
[Mordecai]: Stay safe.
Celaven nods at Mourn, but says nothing further.
Colson looks to the others, and nods. "Quickly then."
[Almeiria]: Stubborn creature, isn't he? *She passes a judging gaze over Mourn.*
Dane grunts.
[Mordecai]: Do we need to alert Sil?
Silvestre appears.
[Dane]: I warrant Sil knows.
[Mordecai]: Ah.
[Silvestre]: I'm here.
Colson starts off at a jog.
Mordecai smiles. "You're good at that. I didn't want to just leave you here."
Silvestre smiles a little nervously.
[Dane]: Alysson, which is 'axe ma?' Kaela? Alynnra?
[Silvestre]: I just didn't want to… uh… have to talk to him or anything…
[Alysson]: Axe Ma is…Ma with an axe.
[Dane]: Will someone bloody translate.
[Colson]: Alynnra. It's…complicated, Dane.
[Mordecai]: Alynnra is his ma.
[Mordecai]: Kaela is his aunt.
[Dane]: Kaela's the deader with the Lich King, and Alynnra's not.
[Mordecai]: Yes.
Dane grunts inquisitively.
[Colson]: Let it suffice for now to say that bronze dragons are involved. Alysson is Alynnra's son, she is not….particularly old.
Celaven adds, "Nor is she a particularly… affectionate mother, from what I understand."
Colson inclines his head.
[Dane]: She just attacked Alysson 'fore Mourn there ran her off. Mm?
Celaven winces. "Axe ma, you see."
[Mordecai]: No, no.
[Colson]: I believe Miss Fey here could elucidate as to why 'Axe Ma' is not entirely Alynnra herself.
[Mordecai]: Kaela told Alysson to follow his mother Alynnra. Instead of doing that, Alysson followed Kaela. Kaela attacked Alysson when she realized she was being followed.
[Mordecai]: Yes?
Dane glances back.
[Almeiria]: Correct, Mordecai, dear.
[Silvestre]: Can we not call them Mondragon? *Sil asks.* Seeing as like half the people involved are Mondragons.
Atley nods at Almeiria.
[Dane]: How do you play into all this, then.
[Almeiria]: I was keeping tabs on them. I sent my daughter to report their location to your company.
Dane grunts. "Let's have a look about, then."
Colson has a look about.
[Almeiria]: That Kaela…found me. Unfortunately.
[Dane]: And that Mourn. He's harassing our Ralaea?
[Alysson]: Rae's gettin' harrassed?
[Colson]: Not entirely. Miss Westwind is…re-establishing an acquaintanceship. She is aware of him, and does not believe herself to be in danger.
Dane licks his lips with a glare and looks back to the Aspenwoods at that.
[Dane]: Mm. Well then. That deader did his duty tonight.
Silvestre looks at Colson in concern.
Mordecai says quietly to Alysson, "A druid named Yveris saw you wander off with Kaela and Alynnra and came to let me know. Cobalt Company was very worried about you. Jo put out a memo." He adds, even more quietly, "Your absence was noted, and you were missed."
[Colson]: It is complicated, but I believe Mourn is sincere in his…persistence to ensure her safety at the least.
Dane grunts and just repeats. "He did his duty. Wot's Alynnra look like, then. Another red head?"
Alysson looks surprised at Mordecai's words. "Is that what you're all doin' down here? Lookin' for me?"
Dane looks back to Alysson and nods. "Aye. I've little knowledge of this business, but you are Cobalt."
[Mordecai]: Yes, it is.
Celaven looks over and nods. "We look after our own."
Colson turns and nods at Alysson. "There was no shortage of volunteers."
[Almeiria]: She is a beautiful young flower with bright orange hair, yes.
[Mordecai]: Ben came all the way to Valiance Keep to look.
[Dane]: T'd be wise to ask the guards at the gate if they've seen her.
[Almeiria]: And she is mine, so I suggest you be civil, if we should find her.
[Dane]: Yours? Your wot'.
[Silvestre]: Flower?
[Colson]: We will give her an opportunity to speak her side, Miss Fey.
[Almeiria]: Mine. *She doesn't elaborate.*
Dane narrows his eyes at Almeiria.
Mordecai falls back to walk next to Colson.
[Dane]: Hail, soldier.
[Dane]: You see a red headed young woman pass through here tonight? She'd have been alone.
[Mordecai]: Wearing… armor, perhaps?
[Dane]: Young. Fair in appearance.
Westguard Defender turns to the group, blinking underneath his helmet. "Cobalt Company. Hail and well met to 'ye." He listens to their inquiries and jabs his drawn sword towards the inn.
Mordecai reaches for Colson's hand again.
Westguard Defender says: Aye. Noot' loong' 'fore 'ye all got here one of that description went inta' the tavern.
Colson takes Mordecai's hand, glancing back at the inn with a frown.
[Dane]: Right then. Carry on.
[Almeiria]: So, she's here after all. I doubt Watcher would have stuck around, so it will probably be Alynnra herself.
[Mordecai]: Ah.
Mordecai pulls his hood up as they enter.
[Colson]: Do I understand correctly that she will not be aware of what the "Watcher" has done?
[Almeiria]: It is designed that way, dear.
Colson doesn't sigh. It's not a sigh. It's just an exhale. Very slow. "Dane."
Dane just squints, shaking his head. "Is she of two minds or somming'?"
[Mordecai]: Yes.
[Mordecai]: Something along those lines.
[Colson]: That will complicate matters.
[Dane]: If she's of two minds and out of control, she ought to be restrained until it's remedied.
Alynnra is seated at one of the tables, enjoying a glass of milk.
[Colson]: Do you have a way of speaking to the 'Watcher', Miss Fey?
Mordecai frowns.
Almeiria smirks. "I can draw her out. Or, rather…she dislikes me."
[Colson]: I see.
[Silvestre]: Is it safe to draw her out?
[Almeiria]: She won't act here. It isn't in her interests.
Colson looks mildly at Dane. "We must tread carefully, Dane. At least some part of her is unaware, and possibly innocent."
[Dane]: If she's barking mad, I'll play sweetly, but this cannot be allowed to continue.
Alysson hangs back, by the door.
[Colson]: No. Whatever the 'Watcher' is doing, if she is truly aiding the Scourge, we must do something. The law is clear on collaboration.
[Dane]: Even if that means containing a woman who for all intents and purposes is innocent, until her mind can be fixed.
[Almeiria]: This will be a night of discovery. How exciting. I wonder which side of your laws I will fall on?
Colson inclines his head. "We will see."
[Dane]: If you're as smart as you like to think you are, the side that keeps you alive.
Dane regards Almeiria mildly. "This is Alliance territory."
Almeiria settles for glaring at Dane. Perhaps her earlier defeat has made her cautious.
Colson looks at Almeiria with a cool, neutral expression. "Miss Fey. Is she here?"
Mordecai shifts from foot to foot uncomfortably.
Almeiria turns and calls to Alynnra. "Aly, dear…won't you come here for a moment?"
[Dane]: Celaven, eye on the door, will you.
Celaven nods and moves quickly closer to the door, so as to intercept anyone who might run.
Alynnra looks up from the table, startled, then sees Almeiria with a large group of people around her. She gets up and walks over, pausing on the bottom step of the stairs. "Is…something the matter?"
Dane maintains his glare, looking between Almeiria and Alynnra. "You know wot' we want," he says to Almeiria. "Now is your chance to fulfill it peaceably."
Silvestre keeps his eyes on Alynnra.
Almeiria smiles sweetly. "Getting right to it, hmm? Very well." She takes a step towards Alynnra, and shrugs. "Give it up, Watcher, dear. Our guests would have a word."
Dane sets a hand on his sword.
Colson looks at the inn and the people in it. He seems ready to halt Alynnra if she goes for a possible bystander.
Alynnra's expression changes from innocent confusion to an angry glare. "Get on with it, pawns. Ask what you're here to ask."
[Dane]: We've not come to ask. We've come to tell you to come peacefully.
Colson exhales slowly. "Are you collaborating with the Scourge, of your own free will and intent?"
Watcher glances between Dane and Colson. "The Scourge? No." She looks unwilling to volunteer the information.
[Colson]: Are you aware that Kaela Mondragon is an agent of the Scourge?
Watcher fixes her glare on Almeiria, specifically. "Yes."
[Colson]: Would you care to explain why you believe that you are not cooperating with the Scourge, while in the company of a known agent of it?
Dane grunts, eyeing the Watcher.
Watcher says: I have a deal with Her sister. Nothing more.
Mordecai opens his mouth to speak and shuts it.
[Colson]: Will you elaborate on that deal, and what it entails?
Watcher says: And why would I tell a mere pawn my business?
[Almeiria]: Come, Watcher dear. You knew it would come to this eventually.
[Colson]: In the interest of your continued ability to pursue it. If you refuse to explain yourself, we are obligated to turn you over to the Alliance authorities on suspicion of collaboration with the Scourge.
[Dane]: Whether or not you come peacefully.
[Dane]: The Scourge collaborators in the Tundra were not so gently treated as you are now. We gutted them.
[Silvestre]: And you led one of our people into danger.
[Colson]: I understand that you may have personal reasons for doing as you are, and that there are circumstances that may be unknown to us. We are giving you that opportunity to present your case.
Dane grunts and gestures to his left.
Watcher says: Danger? *She looks genuinely surprised at this.*
Colson looks over at Alysson briefly, before returning his attention to Alynnra.
[Almeiria]: We were…attacked by Kaela.
Watcher says: Him too? *She searches until her eyes locate Alysson.*
[Mordecai]: Yes, him too.
[Silvestre]: He was very hurt, when we found him.
Watcher says: That…was not part of our deal. *Her scowl deepens.*
Dane glares.
[Colson]: I hesitate to remind you that Kaela Mondragon, as an agent of the Lich King, may not be the most honorable of people.
[Silvestre]: Maybe you could call your deal off, since she broke it already?
Watcher says: You haven't even heard what it is, yet, pawn.
[Dane]: Then speak it while you've still a tongue, milady.
Mordecai shrinks a little bit behind Colson.
Colson keeps his hand in Mordecai's, as his face remains stoically neutral.
Watcher glares at them. "The deal was that she would assist me with my goal. If I provided something for her."
Dane returns the glare, but keeps listening.
[Silvestre]: That kind of leaves out two important details.
Colson says nothing as he continues to look at Alynnra as though expecting her to continue.
Watcher says: My goal is to put Prince Arthas down as quickly and mercifully as possible.
Silvestre looks puzzled. "But… isn't she working for him?"
[Colson]: And her price for agreeing to this goal?
Watcher says: I don't know her reasons, so don't bother asking, but she wanted me to undo some…damage I did some time ago.
Colson’s expression manages to find a new level of neutrality.
[Dane]: Spare the riddles. If you are a true enemy of the Lich King, then we are allies.
[Colson]: Do you speak of what was done to Ralaea Westwind?
Watcher says: My only concerns are the safety and wishes of Alynnra. *She glances at Colson.* If that's what that pawn's name was.
Colson's jaw clenches, a muscle jumping before he manages to unclench it.
[Colson]: Are you able to undo what was done to her?
Watcher says: Who knows? I was planning to take a look first, but my lockpick ran off. *She looks pointedly at Alysson.*
[Alysson]: Am I in trouble?
[Silvestre]: I don't think so.
Dane growls at Alysson. "No."
[Colson]: You are not obliged to assist her, Alysson, *Colson's voice is notably more gentle.*
Mordecai shrinks back behind Colson further. Maybe he thinks she's glaring at him.
[Alysson]: Well…I was worried, see, an' she said she was gonna do right by Rae, so I thought…
[Colson]: I understand, Alysson. It was a noble impulse of yours to want to assist.
[Silvestre]: So are you still gonna help Rae? *Sil looks back to the Watcher*
Watcher shrugs. "You mean to take me in either way, don't you?"
[Dane]: Aye. No piece on the board survives being outnumbered on all sides … by pawns.
Watcher says: Then it's in my best interest not to fulfill my end of the deal. That way I remain useful to her. Unless you mean to execute me?
[Silvestre]: But… will Rae be alright?
[Colson]: If you do hold the key to curing Miss Westwind, that will be factored into account. Although you believe yourself to be acting against the Scourge, if you persist in helping Kaela Mondragon, we cannot allow that.
[Colson]: We have no proof of her word that she intends to turn on the Lich King, or if she is using some wording to renege on your deal. After all, if your agreement is for "Prince Arthas," he is no longer that.
Dane grunts.
Watcher says: Helping her seems to be in your best interest as well, pawn. All she asked of me was as I told you.
Mordecai takes a deep breath. "May I…" He steps out from behind Colson. "May I speak?"
[Mordecai]: With her?
Mordecai nods in the Watcher's direction.
Dane sets his jaw, looking between Mordecai and the Watcher.
[Almeiria]: Go on, dear. She won't try anything here.
[Colson]: Of course.
Mordecai pulls his hood back and approaches the Watcher.
Watcher watches him warily.
Colson watches Mordecai, his hand prepared for a [Hand of Protection].
[Mordecai]: I'm Chaplain Mordecai Aspenwood. Do you have a name you would prefer, or is 'Watcher' that name for you?
Dane's fingers tighten around the grip of his sword.
Watcher says: The Watcher is what I was created to be. *She glares at Almeiria.* I need no name.
[Mordecai]: I understand. And your primary desire is to keep Alynnra safe and to act in accordance with her wishes, yes?
Watcher says: What's your point?
[Mordecai]: I'd like to negotiate a solution for this situation with you. Would you like to sit?
Mordecai nods at the table she came from earlier.
Watcher continues to eye him warily. "There is no need for sitting. Get to the point, pawn." She intentionally avoids the use of his name.
Colson's left hand twitches slightly, a flicker of something across the neutral expression.
[Mordecai]: Curing Ralaea of the harm you inflicted upon her would be in Alynnra's interests. She studied the Libram of Compassion, yes? She's a healer?
Dane slowly looks between Mordecai and the Watcher.
Watcher says: Doing so would make her other wish impossible. You mean to imprison us.
[Mordecai]: It does not have to be so.
Watcher says: I'm listening…
Mordecai gestures to his tabard. "Ralaea is a member of Cobalt Company. So is Alynnra's son, Alysson, who Kaela Mondragon injured very badly today."
[Mordecai]: Aid us, prove you mean the Alliance no harm, and I don't see why you should be imprisoned.
Watcher says: I suspect you want more than what you are saying.
[Colson]: Our goal is to see to the end of the Lich King. That is what we want, and to see that harm done to one of ours is undone.
[Dane]: No more. No less.
Watcher says: That's all, then? *She glances around at everyone gathered.* Do what I came here to do, that's all you want?
[Mordecai]: Do what you came here to do, with an escort, with proper warning so Ralaea isn't taken by surprise and understands that you're there to assist her.
Dane grunts.
Watcher shrugs. "Whatever satisfies the pawns, I suppose. Fools. I could have been done by now. Fine. Take what time you need to arrange it. I'll be here."
[Mordecai]: Who do you believe us to be pawns of, if I might ask?
Dane faintly tilts his head at Mordecai's question, looking to Watcher.
Watcher says: Mine. Compared to me, that is what you all are. Pawns to be used.
Mordecai makes a sound that's almost the start of a laugh. He seems genuinely amused by this.
[Almeiria]: I tried teaching her to contain her arrogance, alas…she is not very graceful in that, is she?
Dane scoffs and rolls his eyes, shifting his weight, the floorboards creaking underneath him.
Silvestre snorts a brief laugh.
Celaven looks over curiously from the doorway.
Colson's expression is just :|
Watcher says: Now, are we done here, or will you ask me to rot in a cell until you are satisfied I won't run?
Mordecai turns to Dane. "Is that arrangement agreeable?"
[Dane]: 'Tis.
Mordecai looks at Colson.
Dane nods amicably to Mordecai before he glares at The Watcher.
Colson looks back as mild as ever. "It is as I said. As of this moment, she has renounced the Scourge, stated her intent to fight the Lich King, and she is willing to cooperate in undoing what was done to Miss Westwind. There is no need to hand her over to authorities on that basis.
[Almeiria]: How fortunate. It seems we get to remain allies for the time being.
[Alysson]: So uh…everyone's friends still?
Dane grunts.
Mordecai turns back to the Watcher. "There you go."
[Silvestre]: Friends. *Sil nods at Alysson*
Mordecai walks away from her, back to Colson, and holds a hand out to him.
Colson takes Mordecai's hand gently.
Alynnra 's face smoothes out and she staggers, catching herself on the railing. "Um…did one of you need something?"
Colson turns to the others. "Miss Westwind will need to be informed of the situation, and that it is for a cure for her condition."
[Dane]: I warrant you or Mordecai'd be best fit for that, Colson.
[Dane]: Alysson, you'll travel with me back to Valiance Keep, and remain 'hind its walls without an escort.
Almeiria addresses Alynnra. "Never mind, dear, go enjoy your milk."
Mordecai's confident posture breaks away in pieces. He's back to hunching his shoulders and looking down, trying to make himself look smaller. "I'd like to go outside," he whispers to Colson.
Silvestre smiles at Alynnra.
Alynnra glances one last time at the others gathered, returns Sil's smile, then slowly returns to her table.
Colson inclines his head to Dane. "We shall speak with Miss Westwind shortly. If you will excuse us," Colson starts for the door as he speaks.
Mordecai nods to Dane.
[Silvestre]: I'll see you all later! *Sil disappears*
Mordecai steps outside and takes several deep breaths.
Dane glares at Almeiria. "Let's get moving, lad."
[Alysson]: Sir Atley, uh…thanks for comin' for me. Sir.
Colson moves a little closer to Mordecai, as much as the plate allows.
Almeiria shoos them away, then takes a seat at Alynnra's table.
Dane grits his teeth and shakes his head. "It's not just because of the tabard, though that binds us. You are touched in the head, and vexing more oft than not, but I'd not abandon you to any torment nor would I enjoy seeing you suffer."
[Dane]: You will keep to the keep until your orders change, unless you've a proper Company escort?
Mordecai whispers to Colson, "Did… I do all right?"
[Alysson]: Some fellow's touchin' my head? *He ducks.*
Dane grumbles and shakes his head, turning away. "Let's go. The Kalu'ak will sail us."
[Colson]: Of course you did, love.
Dane clears his throat before injecting to the Aspenwoods. "Well done."
Colson nods to Dane and Alysson as they pass by. "Light be with you both."
Mordecai smiles faintly and gives Dane and Alysson a little wave.
[Dane]: We're heading back west.
[Colson]: Travel safely.