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| Details |
| Author: | Athena |
| Summary: | Blue Squad musters its forces against things like the world's most giant danger needle, a very angry hissing ghost, Ethereum political scheming, and the Arcane Monstrosity in the Magic Pit. 9800-ish words. |
| Rating: | T for Teen |
Cressidha dismounts her hippogryph and makes her way to somewhere to sit.
Hexera enjoys the Stars Rest Hotspring.
Caspis greets Cressidha in Darnassian.
[Caspis]: Ah.. excuse me… Hello.
Sabitha stands near the fire, rummaging in her packs with nervous energy.
Cressidha smiles. "Caspis, good afternoon. How was your journey home?"
[Caspis]: It was good to see my daughter. Did you take leave, yourself?
[Cressidha]: I did not return home, but I suppose it was leave all the same.
[Cressidha]: I hope she is well?
Sabitha drops a pack on a bench to rummage better. Faster. Faster! Oh whew. She relaxes. Then stops. Then rummages frantically again.
[Caspis]: She is. I ensured that by the time I left she was relieved to be rid of me.
Cressidha smiles uncertainly.
[Caspis]: She is an adolescent, *he clarifies.*
[Cressidha]: Ah.
Bennarin dismounts from a hippogryph and surveys the camp. He spies the others by the moonwell.
[Cressidha]: Ben, good afternoon.
Caspis bows before Bennarin.
[Bennarin]: Hey, Cressidha. Caspis.
[Caspis]: Lt. Hazan.
Hexera waves.
Bennarin looks around and shrugs in his armor as though he could hike his pauldrons higher for warmth.
[Bennarin]: Snow.
Sabitha looks up from rummaging and makes her way over to Ben. "Lieutenant Hazan, I forgot my tabard. Do I have to go home or can I still come?"
[Bennarin]: Missus Lambert!
[Bennarin]: Uh, you can come on anyhow.
[Sabitha]: It's just… I don't think it was done very well? I had to find someone to make one.
[Bennarin]: Yeah, it is a bit of a supply thing at the moment I reckon. Don't worry on it.
[Cressidha]: Ah, I do have spares. Ben, is this…?
Sabitha relaxes into a smile. "Oh good. Hullo everyone."
[Bennarin]: Missus Sabitha Lambert, Lady Cressidha Aspenwood, an' Caspis Silvershade.
Sabitha curtseys to Cressidha, a quick bob.
[Caspis]: I am pleased there was a spare. I suspect Azizia would cause fuss otherwise.
[Cressidha]: Ah. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Lambert.
Cressidha searches through her pack and produces a Cobalt Company tabard, which she offers to Sabitha. "Here."
Caspis settles himself on the bench, his gaze distant.
[Sabitha]: Oh! How kind. Thank you, Lady Cressidha.
Sabitha wriggles into it and smoothes it down. It fits, because it is made of plot armor.
Or heavily enchanted within an inch of its life. It'll resist bloodstains, too. Amazing.
Cressidha smiles. "Cressidha is just fine, in the field and such."
Bennarin smiles at both of them.
[Sabitha]: If you can get Lieutenant Hazan to call me Sabitha and not "Missus Lambert", you have a deal.
Cressidha looks at Ben.
Sabitha looks at Ben.
[Bennarin]: … oh come on, that ain't fair.
[Bennarin]: Sabitha.
Bennarin sighs at Sabitha.
Sabitha giggles.
Cressidha smiles victoriously.
[Cressidha]: And Hex!
[Hexera]: Hello all!
Bennarin glances over, startled. He smiles.
[Bennarin]: Hey, Miz Witchblood.
Sabitha has to stare a little at someone named 'Hex'.
Cressidha turns and takes a step towards Hex like maybe she's going to give Hex a hug, but hesitates.
[Cressidha]: It's good to see you.
Hexera greets everyone calmly, but you may notice she's a bit paler than usual and her veins are starting to show.
[Bennarin]: You warm enough, Miz Witchblood?
Bennarin peers at Hexera searchingly.
[Hexera]: Yes, the moonspring is nice and warm. I've been busy dealing with all the undead here and it's nice for a bit of a break from all the cold.
Cressidha traces water-conjuring sigils in the air.
[Cressidha]: Would anyone care for water?
[Bennarin]: It does seem to have put a nice thaw on this spot, anyhow.
[Hexera]: Thank you, but I have my own.
Bennarin looks around at the flowering earth, and then up at Cressidha. "I would take some, if you don't mind."
Sabitha shakes her head at Cressidha. "I don't need any, thank you."
Cressidha hands out water to Ben.
[Bennarin]: Thank you, obliged.
Caspis is just gazing into the middle distance and humming softly to himself in a rough, tuneless baritone.
Cressidha clears her throat and offers Caspis a few bottles of water as per usual.
[Hexera]: The allied militaries up here are certainly charitable when it comes to rations. I suspect because many don't come back to camp.
Sabitha looks over at Caspis as Cressidha attempts to hydrate him.
Caspis receives the water with the usual formal Darnassian phrase of gratitude.
Cressidha nods.
[Cressidha]: You're welcome.
Caspis gives Cressidha an absent almost-smile, his gaze still distracted.
[Cressidha]: Oh, is that Rae?
Ralaea turns, hearing her name.
Sabitha turns to see who Rae is. "I suppose introductions are going to get tiresome at some point."
Cressidha smiles. "Rae, good afternoon." She offers her water, which warriors totally drink too.
Bennarin looks over his shoulder. He smiles. "Hey, Rae!"
Ralaea accepts the water with a small nod. "Thanks, Cress."
Bennarin says to Sabitha, "That's Miz Ralaea Westwind. Rae to us."
[Cressidha]: It's good to see you well. Not hiding from anyone today, I hope?
[Ralaea]: No, not…exactly. No.
Cressidha smiles and nods.
[Ralaea]: I'm…glad to be out of the Fjord, though.
[Cressidha]: Ah, yes.
Sabitha bends to pick up some of the blue flowers around them.
Dane dismounts from the gryphon with a "Cheers" growled at Palena and marches over.
Sabitha kneels and begins twisting stems.
[Cressidha]: Dane, good afternoon. Water?
Cressidha hands out water, as usual.
[Dane]: I'll not refuse a waterskin.
Dane reaches out.
Caspis's ear twitches at the sound of Atley's familiar growl.
Cressidha smiles at him. "Have you been well?"
Caspis wanders over to stand in Atley's shadow.
Bennarin grins at Mr. Atley.
Dane nods once, face hard, eyes soft. "I have. Ivri's well. Still somming' of a scamp."
[Cressidha]: I should hope so.
Dane looks around and starts nodding and grunting out of time to each of the faces.
[Dane]: How's the day, then.
[Bennarin]: F*cken cold.
[Cressidha]: Chilly.
Sabitha stands, brushing a couple of leaves off her skirts.
Cressidha says at the same time as Ben.
Bennarin grins at Cressidha.
Dane turns and doubletakes Hexera.
[Dane]: Bloody hell. I've not seen you in nigh on years.
Sabitha walks to Caspis and holds out a flower crown with hopeful solemnity.
[Hexera]: Yes, I've been around. Most of my work in Northrend has been assisting Alliance efforts to the north.
Dane briefly blinks at the flower crown and squints into Sabitha's face before he looks back to Hexera.
[Dane]: Mm. You look to be in one piece.
Caspis adjusts his position to once again be at Atley's flank, without really seeming to fully pay attention to his surroundings. He notices the flowers, though, and his eyes focus on them. Belatedly, on the person holding them.
[Caspis]: Hello.
[Bennarin]: Sir Dane Atley, *Ben offers in general.* Missus Sabitha Lambert.
Caspis peers at Sabitha searchingly.
Dane salutes Bennarin with respect.
[Hexera]: *replies to Altey* For the most part
[Dane]: Ben. S'good to see you about.
[Sabitha]: Hullo. It's… a gift. The flowers here are so pretty.
[Bennarin]: You too, sir.
Bennarin smiles at Atley.
Bennarin salutes Atley with respect.
[Sabitha]: And I've never actually met a night elf before. So… hi, I suppose.
[Dane]: Big word from Sir Elohad, mm? He's decided to brave that viper pit.
[Caspis]: How kind of you. *he studies her, looking touched*
[Caspis]: You have never met one of my people?
Caspis peers at Sabitha searchingly.
Bennarin brightens almost fiercely. He nods at Dane. "Damn good thing."
[Sabitha]: Not personally. I've seen many, of course, in Stormwind.
[Bennarin]: Be good for all of us.
[Dane]: Mm. Overdue, innit'.
Dane grunts at Ben.
Bennarin nods again.
[Dane]: Colson.
[Colson]: Good afternoon.
Dane sips from the Cressiha-provided waterskin.
[Caspis]: I shall do my best to represent us, then. I am Caspis Silvershade of the Cenarion— of Cobalt Company.
[Dane]: Hullo', Mordecai.
Cressidha nods to her brother and passes out water.
[Mordecai]: H-hello…
Sabitha nods, because she knows well the Cenarion of Cobalt Company. "I'm Sabitha. It's good to meet you."
Cressidha double-takes. She didn't even see Mordecai.
Atley eyes Sabitha up and down.
[Dane]: Sabitha, mm?
Ralaea glances at the few unfamiliar faces and drifts back a pace or two.
Bennarin shifts slightly in Rae's direction, so that he makes kind of a Bridge of Person between her and the rest of the group.
Sabitha starts to beam a smile at Mordecai, but Atley's 'greeting' catches her attention. She bobs a quick curtsey to him, too.
Mordecai seems startled to see Sabitha there, and he waves.
Dane nods once. "New recruit, are you?"
[Cressidha]: Paluuva, good afternoon. Water?
Sabitha nods to Atley. "Yes sir. Lieutenant Hazan's a… a friend, and so is Chaplain Aspenwood."
[Caspis]: I thank you for the gift, but I expect to be traveling, and these flowers should remain here. Might I pass them along to another?
Bennarin looks over at the new arrival, and then upward. He nods respectfully. "Paluuva."
Paluuva smiles. "Yes, please, Cressidha. Thank you."
Cressidha hands out water.
Ralaea smiles a little at Paluuva.
Sabitha smiles at Caspis. "Of course. I'm glad someone will get to keep them safe."
Dane grunts at Sabitha.
Cressidha smiles. "Jo!"
Atley blinks at Jocoza.
[Dane]: Hullo', Cap'.
Sabitha smiles at Jocoza.
Mordecai peeks out from behind Colson and waves to Jo.
Bennarin glances down now. Dang, this squad is gonna be a strain on his neck. He brightens all over again. "Cap'n, ma'am."
Colson salutes Jo crisply as she arrives. "Captain. Good afternoon."
Bennarin salutes Jocoza with respect.
Dane nods to Paluuva. "Milady."
Caspis looks around for a likely recipient. One of the Sentinels is watching him, so he crosses to place the flower crown on her head. She blushes a little. He does not notice.
[Jocoza]: Hi, Dane! And Ben, Colson, Sabitha!
Sabitha sneaks over to Mordecai and whispers a 'hello' to him.
Mordecai whispers back, "Are you on one of the squads this time?"
Sabitha nods, eyes bright with excitement. She whispers, "Now if only I don't mess it up."
[Dane]: Returning to the field, are you?
Dane asks Jocoza.
[Mordecai]: That's wonderful. I have faith in you.
Caspis belatedly notices that there is a person down there. He blinks at Jocoza.
Ralaea looks surprised. "Are you?"
[Jocoza]: I am, yes. It'll be good to be out and about with friends again!
Dane grunts. "Too right. Plenty to see in this land."
Dane glances around.
[Paluuva]: Welcome, Captain. It is good to see you again.
[Jocoza]: You as well, Paluuva. I feel like I'm getting to know the Fjord half of our operation all over again.
Bennarin grins at Jo, and then looks around. "Speakin' of operations. Should we operate? We got everyone?"
[Dane]: We'll hang 'bout here for now.
Cressidha looks like she might be trying to figure out who the squad is.
Mordecai quickly pulls out candles. Maybe he had the same thought.
Dane looks to Cressidha before clearing his throat. "I've the Aspenwoods, Caspis here, and Azizia."
[Colson]: Ah. Then we are missing Azizia.
Dane grunts.
[Jocoza]: Oh, yes. Blue Squad, you'll be the same as before. White Squad, I'm with you, so I figured I could update as we go!
[Bennarin]: Okay, White Squad. That's me, the Cap'n, Paluuva, Rae, and Missus— uh. Sabitha.
Jocoza nods at Ben.
Atley eyes Sabitha up and down.
Mordecai says a prayer for White Squad. And Hex. He drinks some water.
Sabitha sighs very softly.
[Mordecai]: Light be with you. Be safe, everyone.
Mordecai gives Sabitha an encouraging smile.
Dane nods to Chaplain Mordecai Aspenwood.
Sabitha smiles back.
Caspis notices Mordecai is there just in time to bemusedly watch him leave.
Mordecai isn't leaving yet! He's waiting to pray for Azizia.
Caspis whew!
Caspis bows before Mordecaì.
Mordecai gives Caspis a shy little finger-wave and drops his second candle.
[Bennarin]: Okay. White Squad, I am told we are reportin' to a Warden Moonsong.
[Mordecai]: Oh.
Ralaea glances at the Aspenwoods. "Take care. Be safe. All that."
Colson bends to pick up the candle.
Bennarin looks around. They all kind of look like Wardens Moonsong.
Mordecai leans down to pick it up.
Mordecai blushes and lets Colson do it.
[Cressidha]: Indeed. Be well.
[Colson]: Light be with you, *Colson says as he straightens with the candle.*
Warden Jodi Moonsong says: Cobalt? Yes, over here! I'm Warden Jodi Moonsong.
Warden Jodi Moonsong waves helpfully.
[Dane]: Travel well, fight hard.
Caspis gives Mordecai a very faint smile.
Sabitha blinks. Jodi the Night Elf?
[Jocoza]: You too!
[Hexera]: It was nice to see you all again. The Alliance is sending me to the northeast to deal with the scourge.
[Bennarin]: Okay. Uh, over there. See you, Blues.
Colson salutes Jocoza with respect.
Mordecai takes the candle and clears his throat. Once again, he looks around for Azizia.
Cressidha waves to Hexera.
[Dane]: Right then. We've chipped away over the Lich King's hold over these lands. Slow and steady fares best here.
Colson inclines his head.
[Cressidha]: I do expect she'll be here soon.
[Dane]: Work with the druids, was it?
Cressidha shrugs. It's anyone's guess.
[Colson]: Possibly.
[Dane]: I do know she grew bloody fond of Dalaran. P'raps overly so. We shall see.
Caspis is not the guy to ask what's going on with anyone else. Or himself, frankly.
[Colson]: Ah. The flight from Dalaran is not short. Perhaps she misjudged the time.
[Mordecai]: I've done that. I-I mean. Misjudged a flight time.
[Mordecai]: Before.
Colson also misjudged the time, but in the other direction. Earlier than he expected to be.
Dane grunts. "Could be, just as well. We'll linger for to join us. Her expertise may prove vital in wot'ever we face here…"
Dane glances around. "They call this region 'Dragonblight.'"
[Caspis]: Yes, sir.
[Cressidha]: Do you know what we're to be assisting with today?
[Colson]: Ah. Yes.
Dane squints faintly. "We were to liaison with a member of the Kirin Tor here. Fulfill their wishes in the field."
Dane glances around. "Did any of you make it back to the Kingdoms?"
Colson shakes his head. "No. The trip back remains a little prohibitive."
[Caspis]: Kalimdor, in my case, sir.
[Cressidha]: I chose not to.
[Dane]: Saw your daughter then, did you?
Dane turns on Caspis.
[Caspis]: Yes, sir. She is well.
Dane grunts. "Good news."
[Dane]: I didn't travel, either. Ivri's not fit for the boat passage as of now.
[Caspis]: I believe I am growing accustomed to sea travel.
Colson looks up at the snow.
Mordecai pulls his hood a little tighter.
Dane wrinkles up his nose. "I feel caged after a time. Nowhere to ride my horse."
[Colson]: Ah.
[Cressidha]: Ah. Well.
[Cressidha]: You'll have the opportunity to do so today, I imagine.
Dane grunts. "Properly. Hutch's grown accustom to the bitter cold here."
[Dane]: Dalaran has its charms, though I fear living in it too long'll make us soft.
Mordecai wraps his arms around his stomach.
Tenacious has also grown accustomed! He is STRONG! FIT! TENACIOUS! He's not freezing or anything! TEST HIM! TEST HIM RIGHT NOW!
[Caspis]: I do not spend much time there.
Colson moves a little closer to Mordecai.
Cressidha brushes snowflakes out of her hair with a gloved hand.
[Mordecai]: Do you, um… Should I wait in Dalaran?
Caspis does not remove the snowflakes from his hair. They just slowly melt there.
[Mordecai]: B-because it's cold here.
Colson looks over at Mordecai and sees Azizia running towards them. "Ah, of course, darling." His voice is much warmer than the snow falling.
[Azizia]: I apologize for lateness, Blue Squad. I had very difficult goodbyes.
[Cressidha]: Azizia, good afternoon.
[Colson]: Azizia, good afternoon.
Caspis bows before Azizia.
[Dane]: Azizia.
Azizia's eyes flash back to having to say goodbye to a very beautiful shirt and having to put on the tabard instead.
Mordecai looks relieved to see her. He smiles and holds up the candle that he has not dropped a second time. "Light, give them Fortitude and endurance."
Dane squints at Azizia, slowly leaning in.
[Dane]: You've changed your hair, haven't you.
Azizia raises an eyebrow at Dane.
[Cressidha]: Ah, you're growing it out again.
Caspis follows Dane's gaze.
[Caspis]: It is beautiful.
[Azizia]: Yes, I did! *She beams.* Well, not really, it grew longer during break, and I adapted to new length! *She pats her curls.*
Mordecai touches Colson's arm and whispers, "I love you. I'll see you later."
Dane grunts. "Right then. Well."
[Dane]: Same squad as 'fore. We're all properly chummy. The enemy is here. It's time to get at them.
Colson turns to Mordecai, setting his hands on Mordecai's shoulders. For some reason he looks a little beyond them, and there's a softening of his expression. "I shall see you back in Dalaran. I love you."
Dane looks to Mordecai. "Travel well."
Azizia nods at Atley.
Mordecai smiles, ducks his head, and mumbles, "Light be with you," before walking back to Star's Rest.
[Dane]: Let's find our Kirin Tor contact.
[Azizia]: Good way back to beautiful city. *She doesn't say the "take me with you" part out loud, but it shows on her face.*
Mordecai looks over his shoulder as he's paying for a hippogryph and waves goodbye.
Colson waves again as they get near Mordecai.
Image of Archmage Modera abruptly appears and swivels to the group. "Greetings. Is Cressidha Aspenwood among you?"
Atley eyes Image of Archmage Modera up and down.
[Cressidha]: I am, yes.
Colson's expression immediately snaps to a neutral Aspenwood one at the salutation from the archmage.
Azizia doesn't look surprised by the appearing image.
Image of Archmage Modera inclines her head. "Superb."
[Cressidha]: What does the Kirin Tor require of Cobalt Company today?
Image of Archmage Modera says: The Moonrest Gardens to the southwest were the final resting place of a noble group of Highborne elves. It was also a powerful ley line nexus.
Dane eyes Caspis at that.
Caspis gazes up into the drifting snow.
Image of Archmage Modera says: I am told the blue dragonflight used a magical device they call a 'surge needle' to destroy the nexus, freeing the power to redirect at their will.
Image of Archmage Modera says, looking to Cressidha.
[Cressidha]: They destroyed a nexus point?!
Cressidha looks absolutely horrified.
Colson frowns in response.
Image of Archmage Modera looks strangely relieved by Cressidha's response. "Indeed. I need more information, and I hope that you will get it for me."
[Caspis]: In theory, the magic of Azeroth is theirs to command. In practice… they are insane.
Dane grunts at Caspis.
Azizia nods at Caspis.
[Cressidha]: Yes.
Image of Archmage Modera says: After the upheaval at the ruins, the ghosts of the Highborne rose up and decimated half of the mage hunters present. Go rifle their corpses for clues.
[Cressidha]: It shall be done.
Image of Archmage Modera inclines her head.
Dane squints, raising his gauntlets to briefly breathe through them. "Right then. Let's bugger off."
Colson doesn't look thrilled to be rifling through corpses, but he calls Tenacious to him to aid in the buggering off.
Cressidha mounts up on Cinnamon.
Tenacious is ready to BUGGER OFF!
[Cressidha]: Ghosts!
[Colson]: Hm.
[Dane]: Here's one.
Dane glances around, squinting through the snow flurry. "Caspis. Have you any memory of this place?"
Cressidha kneels, because she checks bodies all the time. For enchanted blendables.
[Caspis]: Nothing of significance.
Dane grunts.
[Caspis]: It was ruined even seven thousand years ago.
Cressidha only comes up with a [Destroyed Magic Item]. She shakes her head.
[Dane]: Cressidha, you'll take point on looting all we come 'cross.
[Cressidha]: Ah. Yes.
Colson scans the area with a frown, his eyes going a little unfocused. "There are some undead here. But they are…almost oddly spaced."
Cressidha frowns at the second mage's [Spoiled Reagents]. Useless.
Caspis frowns at the purple lightning in the sky.
Azizia follows Caspis's gaze. "Uh. Not good sign."
[Colson]: So it would seem. They feel almost…evenly spaced. More what I would expect from, well. A graveyard.
Cressidha sorts through this mage's [Torn Robes] and pulls out a heavily burned letter.
Dane grunts.
[Azizia]: We also have weird lightning in Outland.
[Cressidha]: Hm.
[Caspis]: Is this like that of Netherstorm, Azizia, do you think…?
Caspis frowns at the idea.
Dane squints at the purple lightning. "S'bloody close, innit'."
[Cressidha]: Ah…
[Azizia]: I do not know, I am too far to determine. It's purple, like it, however.
[Cressidha]: That may be the surge needle. That platform, and the beacon.
[Dane]: Don't think it could be related to this snow, do you?
[Colson]: Oh. That needle is then…certainly a size.
[Caspis]: That one had… ashes.
Cressidha shrugs. "Weather is weather."
[Caspis]: Something was burned.
[Dane]: Sometimes missives are ordered to be burned after reading.
[Dane]: Keep looking.
Cressidha brushes snow out of her hair.
[Caspis]: We may have no luck finding their plans, in that case…
[Colson]: Ah, well. There is always at least one soldier who does not obey orders promptly.
[Cressidha]: I wouldn't give up while there are still bodies to search. Even part of a formerly magic item may have its uses.
Caspis nods.
[Dane]: I'll search every corpse out here 'fore we yield.
[Caspis]: Yes, sir.
[Colson]: Yessir.
[Azizia]: Corpses to search… The things we do to stop dragons. I knew I did not like creatures.
Atley eyes Ethenial Moonshadow up and down.
Caspis gazes absently at Atley's tracks in the snow.
Colson frowns slightly as they near the ghost.
Cressidha readies a frost bolt and hesitates because that ghost is not attacking.
Caspis belatedly notices An Ghost.
[Colson]: They do not seem restless.
[Dane]: … Right. Wot's this one want, then?
Caspis addresses it in Darnassian.
[Cressidha]: Pardon us.
Ethenial Moonshadow turns towards Caspis. It hisses in Darnassian in response.
[Cressidha]: Do you recall what happened here?
Caspis translates for Cressidha.
Caspis appears to have asked her question.
Cressidha frowns and pulls her ice barrier back up just in case.
[Caspis]: He is speaking to me…
[Caspis]: The mage hunters… destroyed his resting place…
[Caspis]: He… commands us to avenge him. Or he will…
Ethenial Moonshadow hisses sharply.
[Caspis]: Overwhelm..? Our base. With… angry spirits.
[Cressidha]: Oh.
Dane glares. "We don't respond well to threats."
[Azizia]: No respect for dead, as it was proven weeks ago. I am more than happy to hel— hm. I do not like threats, no.
[Colson]: The dead are rarely able to be reasoned with.
[Caspis]: All the same the ones he wishes to hunt are already our enemies.
Dane nods to Caspis. "Aye. Best not to make enemies with these spirits. We'll get the plans first, then return to see it done."
Cressidha nods grimly to the ghost.
[Caspis]: Yes, the plans are our first priority.
Azizia throws one of her weapons in the air and puts a flaming hand on Moonrest Highborne's face before catching her weapon again.
Dane casually rolls a corpse over with his boot, frowning.
[Caspis]: The cold in this place runs so deep…
[Dane]: Biting a bit harder than the Tundra, innit'.
[Cressidha]: Hm.
[Azizia]: Yes… Coming from Dalaran to here is nightmare. I would put totem for warmth but we have to keep moving…
Caspis absently brushes snow from Cressidha's hair. He may have been spending too much time with his daughter.
Dane grunts
Cressidha oddly doesn't seem to mind.
Dane's nose is gradually shifting into a pink color.
[Cressidha]: I can provide warmth, but only temporarily…
Cressidha sweeps a wave of heat across the group, but it soon fades to the Northrend cold.
[Dane]: Does make you appreciate the warmth of Dalaran, properly.
Colson doesn't look cold, but who knows what that means for the paladin.
Azizia looks baffled that Caspis's surprise unintentional affection doesn't shock someone.
[Colson]: Ah, well. I do have..
Colson alters his aura to the Frost Resist.
Cressidha doesn't seem to notice.
[Caspis]: Highborne cities were all built to so much the same style that… it is difficult to tell, from ruin to ruin, if it is a place my mother took us, or not…
[Azizia]: Oh! Warmer, no?
Colson smiles faintly at Azizia.
[Cressidha]: Oh, I suppose it is.
[Dane]: Caspis, had you laid eyes on Suramar, proper?
[Colson]: We refer to it at time as the [Warm Cozy Aura] for the effect it can have out here.
Cressidha laughs quietly.
[Azizia]: Ah, it is Colson's warm protecting us. It is good we have you here.
[Caspis]: I did once, yes.
Dane grunts.
[Azizia]: If we get lost in cold wilderness, we will not have to cuddle together close for warmth.
Colson might be a little pinker, as he smiles faintly at Azizia.
[Azizia]: We will have aura of yours, and totem of mine!
[Dane]: When I was a lad, there were stories. Stories of a great civilization, older than some of the Troll Empires.
Cressidha glances in the direction of the surge needle periodically.
[Caspis]: Mm?
Dane nods once to Azizia. "I've done that."
[Azizia]: … which part?
[Dane]: Militry' campaigns through the Alterac Mountains, where a fire would mean certain death.
[Dane]: The lads get properly cozy.
Dane growls. "Bloody -scores- of corpses here."
[Azizia]: … I would rather get cold. It is not against Blue Squad, but it is pass for me.
Dane grunts. "You say that now. Wait 'till that tail freezes off."
[Caspis]: Hmm, I suppose I could… *turns into a bear*
[Colson]: I am certain that Caspis — oh.
Caspis seems warmer now.
Cressidha looks at Bear Caspis.
Caspis has luxurious dark fur that does indeed look quite warm.
[Azizia]: Still, no. No matter what it is you mean by "get cozy", Dane.
[Dane]: It means five or so lads huddled together in a tent.
[Dane]: The Kalu'ak do it during the harsher winters.
Azizia throws one of her weapons in the air and puts a flaming hand on Moonrest Highborne's face before catching her weapon again.
Caspis luckily is in bear form and therefore can not enlighten the others as to what five druids would do if huddled together in a tent.
[Cressidha]: We used to huddle by the fire as children, during the winter. Er, that word doesn't mean anything untoward, simply to be in very close proximity, Azizia.
Dane eyes Cressidha.
[Dane]: At your manor, in Stormwind?
[Cressidha]: No, before that. At the farm we grew up on.
Azizia's head and horns are covered by rocks as she headbutts Moonrest Highborne.
[Dane]: Farm…
Dane growls contemplatively.
Colson inclines his head in agreement.
[Azizia]: Hugs are not for me… But I did not know you lived in farm.
[Dane]: You speak of your vineyards.
[Cressidha]: We spent our youth taking shelter from the orcs on the farm of one of the families our house employs, the Varleys.
Dane squints between Colson and Cressidha.
[Dane]: I've known you two, wot', two years? I've never known this.
[Cressidha]: Well, we could hardly have grown up in Stormwind.
[Cressidha]: It was…
Cressidha gestures vaguely. You know. Overrun by orcs.
[Dane]: Swarming with jabbering barbarous greenskins.
Colson looks back mildly at Dane. "I suppose if we had ever needed to assist with chickens, I expect it would have come up."
Caspis makes a bear sound. It may or may not be related.
[Dane]: I warrant you've kept the Varleys well after that.
[Colson]: Of course.
Cressidha nods.
Azizia throws one of her weapons in the air and puts a flaming hand on Moonrest Highborne's face before catching her weapon again.
Dane unceremoniously rolls over a stiff corpse and tears through the robes.
[Dane]: There. We've got it.
[Dane]: Unburnt.
[Cressidha]: Oh?
[Dane]: Aye. Looks it. Let's get it back to the Kirin Tor.
[Colson]: There is always at least one who does not follow the directions of orders, *Colson says with all the knowledge of having been a commander.*
Dane grunts.
[Cressidha]: What does it say?
Dane hands it to Cressidha.
Caspis politely turns back into an elf.
Image of Archmage Modera slowly turns towards the group, still hovering.
Cressidha reads out loud. "Goramosh, I am sending a representative of the Ethereum to you."
Caspis listens intently to Cressidha.
[Cressidha]: Ambassador Duyheen tells me that there are more of his kind who would like to join the cause.
[Azizia]: Ethereum?
[Cressidha]: Feel him out, see if you can find a use for him.
[Azizia]: Oh, no… *She whispers.*
[Cressidha]: If he proves helpful, I may consider accepting more of his kind into the fold.
Dane side-eyes Azizia with an inquisitive nod.
[Cressidha]: Don't be an idiot: Burn this letter once you've read it. Signed, M.
[Colson]: Hm.
Image of Archmage Modera says: Curious, they seek an accord with the Ethereum. The ethereals could prove a powerful ally for Malygos and his madness…
Image of Archmage Modera says: This will not do!
Colson nods, frowning.
Caspis looks thoughtful. But then, he usually does.
Image of Archmage Modera continues focusing on Cressidha. "We need to kill two birds with one stone here, mage. You're the stone."
Colson glances from the archmage to Cressidha, and then back to the archmage. It's possible his expression is colder than it was a moment ago.
Caspis frowns at Modera.
Image of Archmage Modera says: Our two birds are Wind Trader Mu'fah and Goramosh. They should be somewhere in the western half of the Moonrest Gardens. Most likely they're in the larger two-story building overlooking the pit.
Cressidha folds her arms over her chest.
Azizia seems fine that the Archmage is focusing only on Cress. Azizia is off to a great start with authority figures, this season!
Image of Archmage Modera says: I require proof of their demise, if you would be so kind.
[Cressidha]: You knew the name of the ethereal in question already. This letter we found was simply to confirm other evidence that you had?
Image of Archmage Modera inclines her head. "In a manner of speaking…"
[Cressidha]: Hm.
Cressidha looks at Dane.
[Azizia]: … We should hurry and go stop accord.
Dane sets his jaw. "Aye. Let's see to it."
Azizia begins walking away.
Colson also looks at Dane, for an order.
[Dane]: Mount up.
Colson exhales slowly, and mounts up.
[Azizia]: And before I say something. *She adds, once they're a bit farther.*
Dane looks to Azizia.
Caspis looks to Azizia and gives her a slight smile.
[Dane]: If you've somming' to say, I'd hear it.
Dane growls calmly.
[Caspis]: Her restraint in front of the Archmage, however, is to be commended, yes?
Dane nods once. "Properly. I'd have your thoughts known if you wish."
Colson murmurs prayers as they get back into the ghostlandia.
[Dane]: You'd think that spirit'd get his comrades to not harry us.
Cressidha frowns at the danger dogs.
[Colson]: Ghosts are rarely reasonable.
[Azizia]: I just feel archmage did not really see urgency. Finding letter for confirmation when she knew mostly something was happening. And Miss Cress is not stone. I talk to stone, and she is much more interesting than them.
[Cressidha]: Dane.
Dane grunts.
Cressidha points down into the pit.
[Colson]: They often know not precisely what or why they do as they do.
Atley eyes Arcanimus up and down.
Dane grunts.
[Dane]: That's not our target, now. Let's do in the pawns 'fore anything else.
Colson frowns. "That is not…a demon."
There is some sort of large elemental creature made of energy hanging out down there.
Caspis stares at the purple lightning, where it converges in one spot.
[Cressidha]: They're channeling it. The casters, there.
[Dane]: And aye, Azizia. You're not alone in your critique of the Kirin Tor.
Cressidha points at Surge Needle Sorcerer.
Colson looks at the casters there.
Dane nods to Cressidha. "Right. Let's gut them."
[Caspis]: Take comfort, Azizia, in knowing that often the thoughts you keep to yourself, we also quietly share.
Azizia throws one of her weapons in the air and puts a flaming hand on Moonrest Stalker's face before catching her weapon again.
Dane grunts at Caspis.
[Dane]: For better or worse they see Cressidha as useful, and they're right.
[Cressidha]: I am useful.
[Caspis]: But they see her as a tool, not a person.
[Dane]: We're all tools to them.
[Cressidha]: … yes.
[Colson]: I confess, Dane, I mislike having Cobalt used as the Kirin Tor's personal assassins, particularly against an ambassador, even though it is necessary to prevent this union.
[Dane]: I've not great love for them, or their ways, especially these days. But they are no allies of the Lich King.
[Caspis]: But she did, at least, seek concrete proof before acting.
[Cressidha]: At the very least, we can interrupt the meeting, yes?
[Azizia]: I know, you all think similarly, often. Being brave enough to say these things and not just think is where I shine.
[Dane]: Warrant that's the facker', there.
Dane briefly side-eyes Azizia.
[Caspis]: It is not a matter of courage, Azizia.
[Colson]: She did, yes. And this is necessary. The Ethereum must not be allowed to join with the Flight's plans.
[Dane]: I'll have your sentiments passed on to the Captain.
[Dane]: Let's kill this first.
Cressidha moves quietly closer through the snow, hoping to overhear something.
[Colson]: Thank you, I would appreciate that, Dane.
Caspis sneeks.
Wind Trader Mu'fah says: I have been waiting here for an eternity since our last meeting! When will Goramosh be done with his ritual?
Colson is as quiet as he can be. That being said, he's in full plate armor. In the snow.
Caspis listens intently to Wind Trader Mu'fah.
Dragonblight Mage Hunter says: I cannot.
Dane leans up against the wall, squinting.
Wind Trader Mu’fah notices the sneaky squad and attacks.
Wind Trader Mu'fah says: What's this, more delays?!
[Cressidha]: Ah!
Caspis pounces!
Cressidha definitely has no problem killing this guy in self-defense.
Colson has even less of it, as the one he's defending is Cress.
Dane nudges the remains of Wind Trader Mu'fah. "I'd not known these things made their way here."
[Cressidha]: Perhaps we'd best stop that ritual.
[Azizia]: It is too bad. They have great merchandise sometimes.
Dane grunts.
[Colson]: If you speak of the Ethereals, Dane. They are not 'things.' They are people, though they seem less…substantial than others.
Dane just grumbles dismissively.
Goramosh says: You're too late! The accord has been negotiated. Only the details remain. Small details… like you!
[Caspis]: They once had forms, as we do.
[Colson]: Quite so.
Cressidha frowns.
Colson looks over at Cress at the frown.
Atley eyes Cressidha up and down.
[Dane]: Wot's it?
Dane takes out a rag to wipe the blood from his sword before it can freeze.
Cressidha picks up A Device that Goramosh was carrying. "Hm."
[Colson]: Well, that is odd looking.
Caspis backs away.
[Cressidha]: I'm… uncertain the purpose of this.
Dane shakes his head. "Azizia?"
Azizia shrugs. "It is not beautiful enough to wear, sorry."
[Dane]: Well 'nuff, then. Let's ride.
[Cressidha]: She said she would require proof of their demise. This might do. But… if the accord was already struck…
[Dane]: We'll stop by that spirit along the way and sate his bloodlust.
Colson makes a 'hm' sound.
[Dane]: Mount up. Let's return.
Cressidha gathers up some of the ethereal's outer wrappings on her way out.
Colson keeps that [Warm Cozy Aura] on as the snow continues to fall.
Cressidha searches through them to check if he, too, had a Device. The ethereal does not seem to have had any devices.
[Cressidha]: Ah!
[Colson]: Hm?
[Azizia]: Ah?
Cressidha's ice barrier breaks as one of the mages reflects a portion of her blizzard back at her.
[Cressidha]: I'm fine.
Dane grunts.
Dane pulls on the reins, looking to Caspis, just gesturing to Ethenial.
Caspis explains their success in Darnassian.
Ethenial Moonshadow hisses triumphantly in the ancient tongue at Caspis.
Colson takes the pause to look Cress over again, just to be sure she really is fine and not Aspenwood Fine. It seems to be the former.
Caspis bows before Ethenial Moonshadow.
Ethenial Moonshadow drifts closer to Caspis. Perhaps too close for comfort as his hissing takes on a more conspiratory tone…
Caspis stiffens but does not move away.
[Caspis]: Ahhhh.
Dane sets a hand on his sword as the ghost draws nearer to Caspis.
Colson's hand moves slightly as he prepares a [Blessing of Protection]. Just in case.
[Caspis]: That… thing we saw… the arcane… creature.
[Cressidha]: Yes?
Dane grunts.
[Caspis]: The sorcerers unleashed it. He wants us to destroy it - it is feeding on the spirits.
Azizia raises an eyebrow.
[Azizia]: Hm. Of course it is.
Dane grunts.
[Colson]: Feeding on the spirits? Hm.
[Dane]: He fashion anymore threats this time?
[Caspis]: Once again, he did not ask nicely, yes.
[Dane]: Chipper.
[Caspis]: But it seems a wise thing to do in any case.
[Dane]: Let's return to the Kirin Tor, first.
Dane grunts.
Colson's expression remains neutral, and he doesn't move his hand down from the ready position. Just in case.
[Caspis]: And we are more than capable.
[Cressidha]: Very well.
[Colson]: Very well.
[Azizia]: But even if he did this time, we have to act no— or later.
[Dane]: 'Fore we return, I want to commend you all for presenting a unified front with the wizard.
[Dane]: I know this is not the first time we've had our issues with their workings…
Cressidha nods to Dane. She's examining the device as she walks.
Colson nods to Dane as well. He's watching Cress examine the device.
[Caspis]: They wield a great deal of power. It is a difficult line to walk.
[Dane]: Grating as they are, they've proven to be powerful enemies against the Lich King.
Caspis nods at Atley.
[Colson]: Yes, of course.
[Caspis]: There may be a time to antagonize them, but this would not be that time.
[Dane]: I'll hear any issues you've with them and see them addressed.
Dane grunts at Caspis.
[Azizia]: You can say me. I know.
[Colson]: There are many things we do in war that we would not in times of peace.
Azizia zips her mouth and throws the key above her shoulder.
Dane shakes his head.
[Dane]: Not just you, Azizia.
Caspis says the word 'antagonize' as though he may have learned it recently and found it a new favorite.
Dane growls earnestly.
Atley eyes Winter's Sister up and down.
[Cressidha]: We must be certain to return to the surge needle to destroy that elemental, once we're done here. It will soon grow to become a problem for more than just the dead, if they continue channeling power into it.
[Caspis]: I am displeased with them myself. If only because powerful cabals of wizards have historically not… been beneficial to Azeroth.
[Caspis]: I agree, Cressidha Aspenwood.
[Azizia]: And just problem to dead is big problem already.
Colson nods to Cressidha.
Dane nods to Cressidha. "Too right."
[Dane]: I've my own issues with the Kirin Tor. Their brutality's not affected me.
[Azizia]: We are in area of undeath. Who knows what creature that absorbs dead could become for King of necromancers.
Dane grunts at Azizia.
[Colson]: Precisely so, Azizia.
[Caspis]: The ghost acknowledged that it was also a danger to mortals. He simply did not care.
As they return to the camp, some of White Squad’s conversation can be overheard…
Warden Jodi Moonsong says: I have dreamed of Zangus before, but without the context that you have discovered, I knew not what it meant. You have brought clarity to the vision the goddess has gifted to me, and I know now that he can be found within the Pit of Narjun, to the north.
[Bennarin]: The bug pit.
Warden Jodi Moonsong says: … Yes. The bug pit.
Warden Jodi Moonsong says: If there is to be an end to the land’s suffering, the high cultist must die!
[Sabitha]: Good.
[Bennarin]: Okay. Yes'm. Into the bug pit we go.
[Bennarin]: White, c'mon— oh, hey, Blue.
Sabitha smiles.
Colson inclines his head to White Squad.
[Jocoza]: Oh, hi guys!
[Dane]: Hullo'. Fair weather, innit'.
Cressidha nods to Ben as she approaches, carrying some sort of Device.
Dane growls with sardonic amusement.
Aspenwood salutes Jocoza with respect.
[Bennarin]: It is not, sir, no.
[Sabitha]: We have to go kill a cultist in a bug pit. How're you?
Dane growls with good humor.
[Cressidha]: Oh. Better you than us.
Cressidha smiles slightly.
[Dane]: Some arcane monster's ripping 'part the land, yonder.
[Dane]: Lightspeed, you lot.
[Colson]: Not in a bug pit.
Colson clarifies.
[Bennarin]: … okay, well.
[Jocoza]: Well, that sounds bad, too.
Sabitha nod nods. Yes. Monsters.
[Bennarin]: Good luck with that, an' all.
[Azizia]: Arcane monstrosity in magic pit.
[Cressidha]: Good luck with your… bug pit.
Dane grunts.
[Bennarin]: Lot've pits around here.
[Jocoza]: Yeah, try to keep the land from being ripped apart!
[Paluuva]: Good fortune to you, friends.
Ralaea grumbles, "Thanks."
[Sabitha]: This place is the pits.
Dane nods to Paluuva.
Bennarin snorts at Sabitha.
Colson chuckles at Sabitha.
Cressidha covers her mouth to hide a smile.
[Dane]: Right then.
Dane looks to Cressidha, then Modera.
Cressidha clears her throat and dumps the ethereal bandages at the image's feet. She holds up the Device.
Image of Archmage Modera says: What do you have there?
[Azizia]: Not fashionable accessory.
[Cressidha]: Well, the two you spoke of are dead, but Goramosh indicated the accord had already been struck. This was on his person.
Image of Archmage Modera says: Ms. Aspenwood, if I'm not mistaken, you've uncovered the key to allow us to discern exactly what the mage hunter forces are up to!
[Cressidha]: Oh?
Colson doesn't correct the wrong form of address, but he seems that much colder.
Image of Archmage Modera nods at the device, smiling brightly.
Image of Archmage Modera says: This is a teleportation device. If I had to guess, I'd say that it leads to the surge needle platform floating above the Moonrest Gardens to the west.
[Cressidha]: Ah, I see.
Colson doesn't look thrilled that she's just guessing where it teleports to.
Image of Archmage Modera says: I need you to use it to investigate what's up there. It appears that the device works both ways so you shouldn't have to jump off.
Caspis looks distracted.
Image of Archmage Modera says: I expect that once you teleport to the top of the surge needle, there will be some sort of apparatus on it to observe.
Image of Archmage Modera says: You should be able to use the teleporter from anywhere within the gardens.
Colson doesn't look thrilled at the prospect of using a device both ways either, but maybe that's just his face. Hard to say.
[Cressidha]: I believe that destination to be likely as well. This light here, it went out when we got a certain distance from the surge needle.
[Dane]: We'll see to it.
Image of Archmage Modera says: And you have prevented the accord between the blue dragonflight and the Ethereum?
[Caspis]: Mm.
[Cressidha]: No.
[Cressidha]: To be clear, Archmage, in case you weren't listening.
[Cressidha]: Goramosh said the accord had already been struck, before he died.
Image of Archmage Modera wrinkles up her nose and sighs. "Unfortunate that Goramosh indicated the accord had already been reached."
[Caspis]: Mm.
Image of Archmage Modera strokes her chin in thought. "Nevertheless, that's two less worms we'll have to worry about. Let us get to more important business."
[Cressidha]: Fewer.
Azizia chuckles at Cress's comment. No, no, she did not chuckle, she let out a little cough. That's it. She is supposed to be polite, now.
Caspis gazes steadily at the archmage's image. He is clearly having Thoughts bt does not speak them.
Colson covers his mouth for some reason.
Cressidha corrects automatically.
Image of Archmage Modera tilts her head in confusion. "Pardon?"
[Cressidha]: Excuse me. Two fewer worms.
Cressidha waves a hand dismissively.
Caspis stares at Cressidha
Image of Archmage Modera says: Oh. Ah. Yes.
[Cressidha]: Pardon me.
Image of Archmage Modera nods amicably then turns back to Commander Saia Azuresteel.
Caspis might be concerned about her impoliteness, or might be just now learning there is a difference between "less" and "fewer." It's hard to say.
[Dane]: Let's move.
Cressidha clears her throat. "I believe I know how to activate this device, when we get there."
[Caspis]: Of course.
[Dane]: Right then, only if you're certain.
[Dane]: We've leaned on you a great deal in this campaign.
[Caspis]: Yes.
[Cressidha]: I will be able to confirm so when we get closer.
Dane grunts.
[Azizia]: There is many "maybe"s here around device, but I trust you to handle it well.
Dane squints as they draw closer to the epicenter.
Caspis shivers beside Arcanimus. Chilling!
[Dane]: There's that big bastard.
[Caspis]: You will come to no harm.
Dane grunts and nods at Caspis. "Destroy it!"
Cressidha destroys it.
Colson pops his wings to destroy it.
Caspis proteccs.
The air around them is infused with mana.
[Dane]: Right then.
[Dane]: Cressidha, on you.
[Cressidha]: Let's back up a little, please.
Dane grunts.
Colson backs up.
[Cressidha]: Ah. Yes.
Caspis clearly has no idea what is happening right now.
[Colson]: That is mana, is it not?
Cressidha holds up the Device. Two little antennae are moving to keep pointing at somewhere UP.
Azizia sighs at the sight of the drained souls around where they fought Arcanimus.
[Cressidha]: It is.
[Cressidha]: I simply wanted to confirm the location of where this will send us. It seems to be consistent.
Colson nods. His expression looks grim.
[Cressidha]: Gather around me, now.
Dane grunts, looking between Cress and the device.
Azizia gathers around her.
[Cressidha]: Three… two… one…
Colson gathers around, closing his eyes.
Cressidha activates The Device.
The party teleports up to the top of a platform. Big swirly rocks are swirling around the outside of the platform. Swirling magical text is swirling in the center. There’s just a whole lot of swirling going on.
[Caspis]: GAH.
Colson keeps his eyes closed a few seconds after they arrive.
Dane grimaces and narrows his eyes as the structure swirls around them at a deafening pace.
Caspis looks very unhappy about this entire situation.
Fortunately, the mages up here are busy channeling something, and do not immediately attack.
Colson opens his eyes. It doesn't help with some of the disorientation.
[Dane]: Slay them all!
Azizia seems perfectly fine after the teleportation. She cracks her knuckles. "We have mages working for dragons to stop."
Caspis blindly hurls healing spells.
Cressidha stares at the central… floating column of arcane text.
Dane runs one last sorcerer through before he steps closer to the center. "Cressidha — ?!" he asks, just gesturing to the middle.
Caspis is totally still on the platform.
[Cressidha]: I… ah…
Caspis is also very unhappy about it, clearly.
Cressidha says vaguely, "It's bad."
Dane's hair whips back and forth during the midst of the blizzard and the spinning structures.
Colson frowns heavily. It's a very recognizable expression.
Dane eyes Cressidha before he nods and gestures for everyone to gather around her, marching closer, himself.
[Colson]: How bad?
Caspis huddles up with everyone. Not in an inappropriate way.
[Cressidha]: Not immediately life-threatening.
[Cressidha]: Let's report back.
[Caspis]: *quietly* Please.
[Cressidha]: There's nothing more we can do here. Three… two…
[Cressidha]: One.
Colson manages to look vaguely like a supermodel getting his hair blown back strategically. He nods crisply, and looks at Dane for orders.
[Azizia]: Hmm.
Cressidha activates the device.
Colson closes his eyes before the device goes off.
Blue Squad appears back in the gardens.
Caspis lets out one more unhappy sound right as they arrive, then relaxes.
Dane and the others return to the Highborne ruins. He blinks and glances around with a squint.
Colson doesn't quite stagger, but he does seem to take a moment to catch his balance again on the sudden snow under his feet.
[Dane]: Bloody loud, that.
Dane rubs one of his bright red ears as the snow continues to assault them.
Cressidha presses a hand to her forehead. "Shall we tell that ghost we took care of the ghost-eater for him, before he amasses a ghost army to attack Star's Rest after all?"
[Dane]: Let's return to the spirit. Tell him the good word.
Colson sadly can't turn up the aura any higher. ….yet.
[Azizia]: Yes.
[Colson]: Very well.
Caspis massages his temples. His own, I mean, not Atley's. I probably should specify.
[Azizia]: Then we go tell archmage of badness of situation.
Dane grunts.
Colson looks over at Caspis. "Are you well, Caspis?"
[Azizia]: So that she can get 3 people to sign papers, then send 5 other teams to verify information before Kirin Tor takes action.
[Caspis]: I will be well.
Dane growls with amusement at Azizia.
Cressidha laughs in surprise.
[Dane]: You almost sound like a footman, lass.
Cressidha smiles at Azizia.
[Azizia]: No I do not.
[Azizia]: I have hooves.
Dane grunts.
Ethenial Moonshadow abruptly and silently swoops right up to Caspis' face, like a fish.
Caspis sighs patiently.
[Colson]: I would rather them file the papers and be holding themselves accountable to the actions, than conducting it in secret, *Colson says seriously.*
Cressidha brings up her ice barrier and takes a step back.
Dane also sets a hand on his sword, glaring at Ethenial.
Caspis reports to the ghost in Darnassian.
Colson readies a [Hand of Protection]. Just in case.
[Caspis]: He is… grateful.
[Azizia]: He better be.
[Caspis]: And he warns us that the blue dragonflight has… blown apart the… anchor? Beneath the gardens, and this means destruction for all.
Etheial Moonshadow easily sways in place like a tattered banner, completely unperturbed by the snow or wind as he hisses at Caspis.
[Cressidha]: Yes.
[Colson]: Ah, yes.
[Cressidha]: That's the ley nexus the Archmage spoke of.
[Dane]: T'sounds about right.
[Dane]: He'll bugger off and leave the encampment alone?
[Caspis]: He is less hostile, yes.
Colson nods seriously. Add another onto the pluralization of ' apocalypse.'
[Caspis]: We have… loosened the knots of his rage.
[Dane]: That's one. Let's bugger off.
[Cressidha]: Very well.
Colson buggers off.
[Azizia]: Spirits will find some rest now, hopefully.
Dane glances up at the heavy clouds. "I wonder if any of this's hitting Dalaran."
[Azizia]: You do not want to meet angry ghost face to face.
[Caspis]: Of course they would not allow weather in Dalaran.
Caspis has a slightly venomous twist to his voice.
Dane scoffs with amusement at Caspis. "Aye. Right."
Colson doesn't disagree.
Colson touches his right arm near his forearm, for some reason.
Colson doesn't sigh. It's just a slow exhale.
[Azizia]: Good thing about no weather in Dalaran is that I did not take less warm outfits in suitcases for nothing!
Caspis seems distracted by the sight of all their footprints in the snow.
Cressidha goes momentarily cross-eyed as a snowflake just so happens to hand on the tip of her nose.
[Dane]: You ought to take my wife shopping, Azizia. She's a mind for it.
Colson smiles gently at Cressidha.
[Azizia]: I would love to! Dalaran shopping is best shopping!
[Azizia]: After shopping in Booty Bay at the GTG store.
[Dane]: GT — wot?
[Cressidha]: Archmage.
Cressidha describes the floating cylinder of text.
Caspis gazes around vaguely.
[Cressidha]: We saw something similar in the Nexus, before.
Azizia whispers to Dane. "Greengilt Tanager Gear. You heard me talk about wonderful store before."
Image of Archmage Modera slowly turns to Cressidha while still hovering in mid-air. She widens her transparent eyes.
Dane grunts in recognition and just waves a hand.
Image of Archmage Modera says: What you're describing… that's a projection of the Arcanomicon!
Cressidha sighs heavily.
Colson's brows raise.
Image of Archmage Modera 's show of concern is quickly masked behind an impassive countenance.
Image of Archmage Modera looks between Blue Squad before she shakes her head. "The Arcanomicon is a map of all the magical ley line intersections in the world.
Image of Archmage Modera says: The blue dragonflight has been using it to find and destroy ley line 'anchors' to send the magical power back to the Nexus.
Image of Archmage Modera says: The question is, why is the path of destruction … leading east when it should be heading west instead?
Caspis appears too distracted to hear this latest apocalyptic news. Snow is falling on flowers; what do you expect of him?
[Azizia]: Hmm… and less fewer ley lines east is bad sign, yes, yes, absolutely.
Dane grunts…
Bennarin nods as they pass Blue Squad, but doesn't interrupt.
Colson nods back, automatically.
[Cressidha]: I would imagine that they want to target more of them.
Cressidha sighs.
[Dane]: Let's move off for debrief.
Cressidha nods to the archmage and moves off for debrief.
Colson moves off for a debrief.
[Dane]: Azizia, lay a fire totem, will you.
Caspis thanks Azizia.
[Azizia]: Of course.
Dane grunts and gathers around it. "Cheers."
Cressidha holds her hands out to the totem like she's gathering around a campfire.
Dane removes his gloves and tucks them into his belt with a 'clank' before he holds his bare hands to the flame.
Colson gathers around the totem like he's a, well, a paladin.
[Dane]: This wind'll not stop. You're all capable folk, but be wary traveling this land alone.
Caspis gazes absently into the flame.
[Dane]: The Kirin Tor will need time to parse the intel we've provided.
[Dane]: Have any of you got anything for me?
[Azizia]: I never planned on traveling alone here, do not worry about this.
Dane grunts.
[Colson]: None more than you are already aware of, Dane.
[Cressidha]: It's likely that's not close to their only surge needle, and each one of those is a big problem.
Cressidha rubs her forehead.
Dane nods once before he looks around.
Azizia nods at Cressidha.
[Dane]: We're chipping away at it, no matter how long, or cold 'tis.
[Caspis]: I have faith in us.
[Dane]: It's good we've the same team. I've come to rely on each of your capabilities.
[Dane]: And that Azizia's still with us…
Dane growls.
Caspis's ears droop a little bashfully.
[Colson]: I believe our cooperation with the Kirin Tor at this time is of the utmost importance. I do urge caution of us being too willing to do what they will not, but that is all.
[Caspis]: I agree with Colson Aspenwood.
Dane nods once at Colson. "We've already taken their requests and fulfilled them in our own way."
[Dane]: I trust we'll be able to do so again.
Cressidha smiles faintly.
Colson nods back.
[Dane]: Right then, you lot. Dismissed.
[Azizia]: Do not rely too much on my capabilities, but I am happy to provide them, even if they are very few.
[Colson]: Good work today, Dane.
Caspis salutes Atley with respect.
[Dane]: You as well.
Atley eyes Azizia up and down.
Caspis - you guessed it - wanders off…
Colson salutes Dane with a military precision.
[Dane]: You're here because of your capabilities, Azizia…
Atley salutes Aspenwood with respect.
[Cressidha]: Good work, everyone.
[Azizia]: Yes, yes, but only because they are rare for Alliance. Shamans are still few.
Cressidha returns to Stars' Rest.
Warden Jodi Moonsong says: Thank you for bringing this to me. We will… confer on it, here. I will be in touch with you again.
[Bennarin]: Okay. Yes'm.
Paluuva bows her head.
Cressidha speaks quietly to the hippogryph master, a hand on her forehead like she has a headache, as she arranges for horse transportation.
Colson moves to set a hand on Cressidha's shoulder. "Cressidha?"
[Cressidha]: Yes?
Bennarin steps away from the Warden. "White Squad, good work, again. Dismissed."
[Sabitha]: Lady C— I mean, Cressidha?
Colson passes an attempt of a [Flash of Light] over Cressidha. "Would you prefer to take another way to Dalaran?"
Jocoza gives a contented sigh.
[Ralaea]: Wish they had a place to stay here that wasn't…tents.
Cressidha blinks. "Hm? What is it, Sabitha?"
[Paluuva]: Rae…?
[Ralaea]: Rough tents.
Bennarin heads home to make supper because time is up, alas.
[Ralaea]: Hmm?
Paluuva smiles.
Cressidha smiles faintly at her brother.
Atley peers at Jocoza searchingly.
Sabitha holds out the newly folded tabard. "Thank you for the loan."
[Dane]: Well, Cap'. Glad you've returned?
Cressidha accepts it from her. "You do not need to keep it?"
[Paluuva]: You did well, spotting the remains of your countryman. That is another lost soul now at peace because of you.
[Jocoza]: Yes, I think I am. It's nice getting things done directly. With fire.
[Cressidha]: You have one elsewhere?
Dane blinks and flicks his gaze to Paluuva.
[Dane]: You came 'cross slain humans?
Sabitha shakes her head, smiling a little shyly, maybe looking down a bit. "I have one ordered, it just didn't arrive in time."
Dane asks Jocoza, peering at Paluuva.
[Ralaea]: Oh, I… Well… *She looks embarrassed.*
[Jocoza]: One, sadly, yes. We did what we could for his soul.
Dane grunts.
[Ralaea]: I've always been…proud of our banners.
Cressidha folds the tabard neatly into her pack. "Very well. If it does not arrive by next week, I can provide this one again."
[Sabitha]: Thank you, that's very kind.
Paluuva simply nods, smiling proudly at Rae. "As you should be. Well done today."
[Ralaea]: Thank you. And thank you for properly seeing them off.
Sabitha tries not to, but can't stand it. She bobs a curtsy to the twins.
Jocoza adds, as an aside to Dane, "Rae recognized the Lordaeron banner the body was lying on."
[Paluuva]: It was my honor to do so.
[Dane]: Lordaeron…?
[Dane]: Remnants of the 1st Legion?
Colson automatically bows back to Sabitha. He's too well trained not to.
Cressidha bows politely in return to Sabitha.
Cressidha turns to Colson. "How were you planning to travel?"
Sabitha awkwardly goes and stands… um… over here. My goodness, arrows, yes.
Atley eyes Sabitha up and down.
[Colson]: I intended to return by gryphon, but Tenacious will not mind the extra journey.
[Cressidha]: I do not mind flying in this weather.
[Colson]: It will not make the headache any worse?
[Jocoza]: I don't really know. It was… already wrapped, the body.
Dane grunts. "Aged?"
[Paluuva]: Now I believe we are all in need of some well-deserved rest.
[Cressidha]: No, I do not believe so. The barrier collects the snow, if I maintain it.
[Jocoza]: But it may be some of those folks made it for a while up here.
[Ralaea]: Yes…try not to dream of nerubians, I guess.
Dane slowly turns to peer off into the forest, his jaw set.
Colson nods. "If you would prefer to teleport to Dalaran, I can ensure the transport of the horses."
Paluuva chuckles. "Nor you. Be well."
[Dane]: …Mm.
Ralaea nods at Paluuva.
Cressidha considers this, then takes out a teleportation stone. "Very well. If you're certain. Thank you, Colson."
[Jocoza]: See you all next time. *Jo smiles, and walks away*
Colson smiles gently at Cressidha, leaning forward to give Cressidha a gentle hug. "I am certain. Rest well."
[Paluuva]: I will be returning to Dalaran for now, should anyone need me.
Cressidha returns the hug. "You too."
Atley eyes Sabitha up and down.
[Dane]: You've not the look of an archer.
[Colson]: I shall.
Cressidha steps back and flicks the teleportation stone up into the air.