(2023-05-13) Dragonshrines: Ruby Duty

Details

Author:	Vond
Summary:	Cobalt members (Aiseia, Auralind, Ben, Cressidha, Dane, Jocoza, Velrin) gather to answer a summons to the Wyrmrest Temple that Nunuzac delivered. They are received by an Alliance ambassador and learn that the Scourge are attacking the sacred Ruby Dragonshrine of the red flight, and answer the needs of the situation accordingly. Then they meet the Queen herself.
Rating:	T for Teen

Arc: Nexus War

Stars' Rest. Cobalt members begin to gather at the relatively safe Sentinel camp, a warm spot in the usual Dragonblight dark.

Atley rakes a hand through his treated hair before he nods to the others, stepping off the gryphon. "Hullo', hullo' you lot."

Nunuzac waves eagerly as more people begin to arrive. "Oh good, it is the time"

[Bennarin]: Mr— Sir Atley. Hey, Cressidha.

Cressidha dismounts her gryphon and gets her bearings.

Jocoza nods around at all the assembled. "Everyone here to talk with the dragons?"

Atley spots Auralind and immediately stomps over. "Now -this- sentinel I know."

Bennarin grins at Nunuzac. "Hey, Nunu."

Auralind smiles. "Ishnu alah, Dane."

[Cressidha]: Good afternoon… Auralind!

[Atley]: And you. You as well, terror.
Atley nods at Elushalla.

Velrin stands back, wrapped up tightly in her cloak

Jocoza notes Velrin. "Oh, hi! I hope things are going better for you lately?"

[Velrin]: O-oh u-ummm… Yes… Yes they are.

Auralind offers Dane a proper, arm-clasping human greeting.

Atley returns it firmly, with a grunt of approval and a set jaw.

Bennarin smiles at Auralind, which she cannot tell.

Cressidha looks over and exclaims with an equal amount of surprised delight, "Velrin!"

[Jocoza]: That's good to hear!

Bennarin blinks at Velrin.
[Bennarin]: Oh, hey, Velrin.

[Nunuzac]: So good Captain is here. And squad bosses. I know Ambassador wants to see everyone.

Atley looks to Velrin and blinks as well. "'Tis been some time, milady."

[Velrin]: H-hello everyone… *she says quietly*

[Jocoza]: I do hope some of the dragons are gnomes.

[Atley]: S'good to see you about. And in one piece.

[Bennarin]: Dragon ambassador. *Ben straightens, squaring his shoulders. He is So Ready.*

Nunuzac waves across at Velrin. "You come with us? We go soon."
[Nunuzac]: On the way, the road stops. We go on open snow. We must make sure no one gets lost.

Velrin nods at you.

Cressidha traces her water-conjuring symbol in the air. "Water, anyone?"

Atley salutes Jocoza with respect.
[Atley]: Cap'.

[Jocoza]: My mechanostrider is rated for snowy terrain, no worries here.
Jocoza salutes Dane back.

[Bennarin]: My horse is also rated for snowy terrain. I ain't, but he is.

Auralind turns her attention toward Cressidha at the offer of water, inclining her head respectfully.

Velrin smirks at Ben's comment.

Nunuzac looks to Jo expectantly. "Is this all right now? To ride?" She looks excited to see the dragons again.

Cressidha approaches Auralind. "Here. It's good to see you."

Auralind bows her head reverentially as she accepts the water, "Shaha lor'ma dula Luvas'alith."

[Cressidha]: You're welcome.

[Auralind]: It is also good to…'see' you, Cressidha.
Auralind smirks.

[Jocoza]: Yes, I think we're all here now? Everyone ready to go?

Cressidha chuckles quietly and steps back. "Anyone else?"

Atley knits his brow with gruff amusement at Auralind's pun. He looks to Jocoza and nods. "Aye, cap'."

[Bennarin]: Yes, ma'am. And no thanks, Cressidha, I am good.

Jocoza retrieves her snow-terrain-rated mechanostrider.

Cressidha fetches Cinnamon.

Nunuzac beams out at the others. "Road and open snow ahead! Steward waits for us."

Atley grunts.

Auralind dons her helmet.

Off they go, east toward Wyrmrest Temple. They pass a Horde fort with its warning banners butting right up against the road.

Jocoza calls back at Velrin as they ride, "Do you know any of the ones at Wyrmrest Temple? I really only know Chromie, myself."

[Nunuzac]: Careful that way.

[Velrin]: It is much the same with me

[Bennarin]: Chromie's there?

[Nunuzac]: They leave alone if you stay out of banner reach.

Bennarin eyes the bears.

Atley tosses a narrow-eyed glare at the Horde encampment.

[Jocoza]: Oh, I've no idea, I last saw her in the Plaguelands. I sure hope so.

[Bennarin]: Plague ain't spread this far from where we fought it. Guess we done okay.

[Atley]: Cressidha and I briefly spoke with the Queen's steward.

[Bennarin]: Yeah?

Atley grunts.

Bennarin cranes his neck back at Dane.

[Cressidha]: Indeed. Very briefly.

[Atley]: Seemed decent 'nuff. Respectable.

The road ends and the promise open snowfield starts. Beyond the tree cover and terrain angle impeding the view, the tower of the Temple rises amazingly high.

[Bennarin]: … oh, sh*t. *Ben stares up at the temple.*

Atley leans back in his saddle to peer at it.

[Nunuzac]: That way is the scariest… big things fly above the snow.

But they made it! Here they are.

Cressidha bows before Tariolstrasz.

[Jocoza]: Whoa… I guess it would need to be tall. To accomodate all the *she looks around at the dragons.*

Atley bows before Tariolstrasz.

Bennarin is gawking at the dragons circling overhead.
Bennarin remembers to stop gawking and pay attention.

Tariolstrasz raises his head at the approaching crowd.

Velrin stands quietly before the dragons but doesn't seem particularly phased.

Tariolstrasz says: Yes, what can I do for you? Ah, the shaman who was just here. And you, I remember you. Some of you.

Atley takes position behind Jocoza.

Jocoza steps forward and curtsies to Tariolstrasz. Then she looks…. wayyyy up as he speaks.

Bennarin smiles Winningly.

Cressidha says politely, "Steward Tariolstrasz, good afternoon."

[Nunuzac]: Steward Tario! This is Captain Jocoza, I tell you about. And others from the company.

Auralind salutes Tariolstrasz with respect.

[Jocoza]: I am Captain Sparkwire of Cobalt Company. *Jo nods* And everyone here is someone I trust and would vouch for.

Tariolstrasz says: Yes, the mortals who arrives here with a particular letter of introduction not long past. It is good you've come in person, Captain.
Tariolstrasz says: Let me welcome you again to Wyrmrest Temple, and express my regrets that you weren't given a more thorough reception initially.

[Jocoza]: Times being what they are, I understand no offense was intended.

Tariolstrasz casts a glance up to the sky, where a greater number of drakes and dragons are flying since previously. There are some distant shouts and roars, terrible sounds of the sort that could only be produced by airborne violence between such creatures
Tariolstrasz bears a reasonably good poker face when he looks back, serious, but these are his kin defending against the blue flight. "Indeed. As you can see, our claws have been full, and the situation has only worsened."

Atley looks up and squints, slowly setting a hand on the grip of his sword.

Tariolstrasz says: Rest assured your letter has been passed up to the queen's chamber, and the deeds it outlined are the reason I have been asked to call on your company specifically.

Bennarin does not put his hand on his sword. Those things are real far up there, Mr. Atley.

[Cressidha]: We are here to be of assistance.

Tariolstrasz says: Not only was the Archmage's report highly favorable, but your company's reputation also appears to be known by the Ambassador of the Alliance who has arrived here to work out our joint interests.

Atley grunts with interest.

[Cressidha]: Oh?

Bennarin straightens again and glances at Jo.

Jocoza beams proudly at him. "We'd be happy to help, I'm sure! Just let us know what you need us to do."

Tariolstrasz says: I would greatly appreciate if you could enter and speak with her, Lauriel Trueblade by name. I will be here to receive you should you need anything further, but first convene with the mortal envoy.
Tariolstrasz says: She is apprised of matters that are of great import to our flight. Enter.

[Jocoza]: Right, the mortal envoy. *Jo nods*

Tariolstrasz gives a short grave bow, motioning toward the interior.

[Cressidha]: Where shall we find her?

Jocoza curtsies again to Tariolstrasz as she moves in the direction he gestured.

Tariolstrasz says: Find her here on the ground floor. You will not miss her, a Sentinel I believe.

[Cressidha]: Thank you.

Wyrmrest Protector says: Take your much deserved rest in the peace of the temple, travellers.

Jocoza whispers, awestruck, "He was a dragon, right?"

When they pass into the interior of the temple, even the ceiling of the ground floor seems vaulted almost impossibly high - a remarkable and difficult to explain feat of architecture, but one that allows for the free passage of air traffic overhead by the red flight. The surroundings are fine, the ceiling frescoed.

[Cressidha]: Indeed.

[Atley]: He was, Cap'.

Auralind nods.

Atley raises his head, lips briefly parting as he takes in the interior.

[Nunuzac]: I met her! I show. Night elf ambassador, she stays here now.

Jocoza cannot seem to stop smiling.

Nunuzac points over yonder.

Atley whispers a growl. "Bloody hell…"

[Jocoza]: Oh! Auralind, Velrin, do either of you know her?

[Nunuzac]: It is great here yes?

Bennarin cranes his neck again, trying to stare at everything at once.

Cressidha glances up once at the ceiling.

[Atley]: Properly dwarfs the size of Stormwind Keep.

[Velrin]: I… perhaps…

They approach two conversing figures with some general direction pointing from Nunuzac, who claimed to have met the ambassador before. A night elf's back is to them, and a high elf (or something looking like one) spots them first.

Aurastrasza looks up from speaking with Lauriel. "Hello, travelers. I'm sorry that you had to see our sacred land for the first time in such a state."

Bennarin eyes Aurastrasza up and down.

Atley bows before Aurastrasza.

Lauriel Trueblade turns at Aurastrasza's acknowledgement of the others, recognition apparent in her expression at the tabards. And Nunuzac, who waves eagerly.

[Atley]: Milady.

Lauriel Trueblade says: Cobalt Company, I was told you'd be coming. I am Lauriel Trueblade.

[Jocoza]: Bad times come to everyone, ma'am. You should see my homeland.

[Auralind]: I do not believe we are acquainted personally. Ishnu alah. I am Sentinel Auralind Mistwalker, This is Captain Jocoza Sparkwire of Cobalt Company.

[Cressidha]: Thank you for your kind welcome.

[Velrin]: And I am Sentinel Velrin Silverbloom. A pleasure to make your acquaintence.

Cressidha looks around. Are we all doing introductions? "I am Cressidha of House Aspenwood, a member of Cobalt Company's blue squad."

Lauriel Trueblade smiles graciously at the kaldorei greeting, and salutes Jocoza, then Velrin. "Good to see Sentinels among you."
Lauriel Trueblade says: If you might permit me to get to the point while this battle rages, I don't think we can afford to pass an opportunity to ingratiate ourselves with the red flight.

Jocoza smiles, content to have been introduced.

Atley grunts.

Lauriel Trueblade says: With the challenges ahead, having them as allies would be invaluable.
Lauriel Trueblade says: I have something that I think you're uniquely qualified to take care of and by doing it, you'll be ingratiating yourself with the dragons here. It would be a service to the Alliance.

Atley grunts.

Somewhere, somehow, a politically minded paladin might be happy about this.

Bennarin looks around. He senses a Dadsturbance in the Force.

[Jocoza]: Cobalt Company is happy to help the Red Dragonflight. *Jo smiles*
Jocoza might not be politically-minded, but she sure does like being useful.

Lauriel Trueblade says: If that is so, we need you at the Ruby Dragonshrine.
Lauriel Trueblade says: The dragons are beset on all sides by the blue flight and the Scourge… they're in no better a state than we are. The situation seems dire, but this affords us a rare opportunity to establish a valuable alliance.

Atley grunts attentively.

Nunuzac frowns. "Scourge now too?"
[Nunuzac]: Too-also, not two-number.

Lauriel Trueblade says: I secured a regiment to aid the red dragonflight against the Scourge at the Ruby Dragonshrine. If you have a fight in you, please go find Ceristrasz on the ridge east of the shrine and help him in any way that you can.

[Atley]: We've a fight in us, milady.
Atley growls fondly.

Cressidha nods.

[Jocoza]: We certainly do, and would be happy to use it against the Scourge and the Blue Dragonflight.

Lauriel Trueblade says: Glad to hear it. Not only is the Dragonshrine a place that is precious to the red flight, but you would be backing up good Alliance soldiers with your willingness to lend aid.
Lauriel Trueblade says: I am confident that the company capable of ascending rogue surge needles and navigating displaced ley lines with minimal preparation, is creative enough to assess their needs on the fly.
Lauriel Trueblade offers a gracious bow with that final note of pep-flattery.

Atley briefly side-eyes Cressidha.

Bennarin nods firmly again.

Cressidha nods confidently.

Jocoza nods happily.

Atley bows before Lauriel Trueblade.

[Cressidha]: The ridge east of the shrine, then.

Jocoza curtsies before Lauriel Trueblade.

Lauriel Trueblade says: Directly east from this place should take you right to him. For the Alliance.

[Velrin]: For the Alliance.

[Atley]: For the Alliance.

[Velrin]: And for Azeroth.

[Jocoza]: And for Azeroth, yes.

[Nunuzac]: Ready!

They prepare to depart into the snowfield once more.

[Nunuzac]: Oof, out into snow again… big dragon flying. You hold my hoof if it picks me up?

Atley scoffs fondly at Nunuzac. "You've my word."

[Bennarin]: Yes'm. *Ben smiles crookedly.*

[Atley]: Cap', if it comes to it, I'll have Velrin and Auralind with me.

Cressidha looks up. She happens to be standing directly under an icicle.

[Nunuzac]: Fight bosses better go first. Just in case. They are heavy.

Cressidha moves out from under that icicle.

[Jocoza]: Alright. The three of you together ought to be deadly enough. And Cressidha and I will stick with Ben and Nunuzac.

[Cressidha]: Understood.

Atley grunts.

Bennarin eyes the Scourge.

Approaching the sounds of yet another battle, lush red foliage can be seek peeking over the ridge. The atmosphere is heavy with smoke that rises in a haze beyond the rock.

Ceristrasz looks up at the approaching figures, wrapping up his terse words with a few soldiers.

Atley squints curiously over the ridge.

Ceristrasz says: Ambassador Lauriel sent you?

Bennarin nods once.

Jocoza waves histantly at the high-elf looking guy who's probably a dragon. "Um, Ceristrasz? Yes, she did."

[Cressidha]: Indeed. We are Cobalt Company, here to be of assistance.

Frigid Necromancer Attacker yells: You will find no peace in death, wyrms!

Ceristrasz says: Yes, I am Ceristrasz - Cobalt. None too soon.
Ceristrasz says: If you talk to her again, please let her know that we are very appreciative of her aid. We are fighting battles on far too many fronts.

Every so often, a great emberwyrm swirls above the distant plant life, piercing the dull roar of fires with its own unearthly bellow. A mockery of a red dragon, cracked smoldering bones filled with baleful fire.

Atley grunts. He regularly glances back and forth between Ceristrasz and the heated battle.

Ceristrasz says: We are talon locked here, no time. Listen if you are ready.
Ceristrasz says: The Scourge have overrun the shrine. The shrine's keeper, Dahlia Suntouch, is nowhere to be found. The red wyrms that fell in the shrine's defense now beset us in the form of twisted skeletal emberwyrms. The situation is dire.

[Jocoza]: Oh, that's terrible! I'm so sorry for your loss.

Bennarin glances down the pass and shifts his weight impatiently.

Cressidha frowns faintly.

[Atley]: We're here to put them to the sword.

Ceristrasz looks mildly surprised by Jocoza's expression of sympathy, then shifts and refocuses. "Captain Iskandar leads a group of your kind in stemming the flow of the Scourge out of the shrine."
Ceristrasz Go to his aid… but please stay behind his men. The flow of Scourge is endless and I don't want to lose you in one of those scarred canyons.
Ceristrasz clearly is not fully appreciating what he has on his hands here.

[Jocoza]: We'll be careful. And helpful. The right amount of both. That's Cobalt Company for you.

[Nunuzac]: This captain - he must be where they are fighting, out there!
Nunuzac ducks a little when a red drake - friendly thankfully - soars low overhead.

[Atley]: With your say, Cap', the sentinels and I'll move to the western passes and return here once we've bought some time.

[Jocoza]: Alright, and we'll head in the other direction, see what we can do for them there.
Atley grunts and looks to the Elven Babes. "Let's move."

[Cressidha]: Be safe.

Velrin nods, "Understood."

[Atley]: Charge!

Captain Iskandar yells: Emberwyrm incoming! Pull back! Pull back!

Captain Iskandar yells: They're backing off here… get to the east pass! Quickly!

Cobalt's two teams break off in search of Iskandar, at the ready and picking off a few stray ghouls while Alliance archers stand watch along the high ridges surrounding the Dragonshrine. When they catch up to him and regroup, the Captain is in the process of guiding his troops to a new position. They are having to shift rapidly in response to sudden movements by both emberwyrms and their ally red dragons.

Captain Iskandar says: The reinforcements.
Captain Iskandar darts his eyes among the company, quickly sorting out his assessment of who is in charge. "Have one of yours watch our archers for a signal of air trouble. I won't have anyone carried off from above."

Atley spits on the ground.

Frigid Necromancer Attacker yells: You will find no peace in death, wyrms!

Ghouls and geists periodically swarm up from the ridge and the snows below in churning waves of mindless malice.

[Atley]: Auralind, that's you!

Captain Iskandar: Fall in and be ready to move. On me.

[Bennarin]: Yessir.

Jocoza nods, trying to keep up.

[Atley]: Another wave, you lot…!

Nunuzac looks a bit frazzled between throwing lightning bolts, startled by the numbers.

Frigid Necromancer Attacker yells: Your struggle is meaningless. You will all fall before the endless Scourge!

Captain Iskandar yells: They're backing off here… get to the south pass! Quickly!

[Velrin]: No chance for the element of surprise, eh?

[Atley]: Not today, I warrant —

Velrin grins wickedly, "Just makes things more interesting."

Frigid Necromancer Attacker yells: Every warrior that falls is one more for our mighty army. There is no victory against us.

Atley shield checks a ghoul into the ground and stomps through its rotted skull.

Frigid necromancer gasps. That was his favorite.

Nunuzac looks queasy.

Jocoza sets a dead ghoul on fire, just in case.

[Nunuzac]: Ew ew ew!

Captain Iskandar yells: Red dragon incoming!

Nunuzac ducks. "Eep!"

Iskandar's troops and Cobalt both dive to the edge of the ravine to make way for an enormous red dragon's fire breath, consuming a wave of ghouls in crackling heat.

Captain Iskandar yells: They're backing off here… get to the east pass! Quickly!

Cressidha gets to the east pass quickly.

Frigid Necromancer Attacker yells: Rise… rise and feast on their flesh!

Atley shield checks an -Alliance conscript- to save them from getting crushed underneath an abomination.
[Atley]: There you are, in one piece, on your feet. No time to die, yet.

Velrin grins at Atley.

Nunuzac braces for more surprise ghouls. "So many!"

Captain Iskandar says: The flow is breaking! Cobalt! Report to Ceristrasz that the ground Scourge this far out is thinning. Go with our thanks.
Captain Iskandar has no breath or attention to spare on further discussion. He is already signalling to the regulars. There is still more fighting to do.

[Cressidha]: Understood.

[Bennarin]: Yessir.

[Jocoza]: Will do!

[Atley]: Let's ride!

Bennarin salutes Ceristrasz with respect.

[Jocoza]: Ceristrasz, the Scourge forces are thinning.

Ceristrasz brightens a bit at the news. "Truly?"
Ceristrasz says: It is a disgusting task, but I thank you dearly for doing it.
Ceristrasz says: I have another task that needs attention. I have brothers who are falling in the battle overhead and if we do not act quickly, they will only bolster the emberwyrm ranks.

[Jocoza]: We definitely don't want that, sir.

Bennarin nods grimly.

Ceristrasz says: Get into the shrine through one of the other passes to the south or north… the Scourge presence should be lighter there.
Ceristrasz says: Search the shrine for ruby acorns that have fallen from the tree and plant them near the bodies of my fallen brood. Through this, they can give new life… a proud fate for any of my kind.

Atley grunts.

[Nunuzac]: New life…! Yes, we must revive friend dragons!

[Jocoza]: That's…. a lovely custom. *Jo smiles sadly* So life may continue, even in death.

Atley tightens the reins on Hutch to keep the adrenalized stallion from stomping around.

[Jocoza]: Everyone ready to head out?

Ceristrasz says: Life cannot truly be extinquished here. You will see.

[Atley]: Aye, Captain.

Cressidha nods. "Ready."

[Velrin]: Yes.

Auralind nods firmly.

[Bennarin]: Yes'm.

[Nunuzac]: Yes! But I hope less ghoul.

The basin of the Dragonshrine is hot and hazy. The quality of the air is smokey and oppressive, with a lingering, rotting foulness. The scent of the Scourge is not at all helped by the temperature.

[Jocoza]: Oh, whoa. It's beautiful.

[Bennarin]: Oh, hell. It's pretty in here. Apart from, y'know.

Atley wrinkles up his nose in disgust at the scent.

The earth is bursting with life, defiantly abundant with greenery everywhere not being immediately consumed by fire.

[Jocoza]: Yeah, it was probably better before.

Cressidha clears her throat.

[Velrin]: Like Nordrassil after the war…

[Jocoza]: I can just imagine, how lovely, a little meadow of flowers in the middle of winter.

[Atley]: Bodies, to the west!

Dane has spotted lifeless Ruby Keeper dragons, still smoldering from the emberwyrm fires that felled them.

Nunuzac coughs at the smoke.
[Nunuzac]: No… they burn!

[Jocoza]: Sort of like a garden underground.

Atley digs into the terrain with a gauntlet, stuffing an acorn deep into the soil.

Ruby Acorn reacts wildly when presented to the fallen Ruby Keeper. Bursting roots engulf the body, stirring the earth itself with the strength of their growth, and extinguish the flames by drawing it below.

Cressidha stares.

Bennarin watches the massive vines sprout to embrace the corpse.
[Bennarin]: … damn.

[Cressidha]: Goodness.

[Jocoza]: That was… a lot faster than I had imagined.

Flourishing red blooms and grass struggle from the churned ground, covering the immediate signs of the disturbance.

[Jocoza]: I thought, you know, a tree slowly growing.

Nunuzac blinks and steps back on one hoof, wringing her hands a bit. "This is how seed helps?"

[Cressidha]: It would seem so.

[Jocoza]: At least they will not be enslaved to the enemy.

Frigid Necromancer Attacker yells: You will find no peace in death, wyrms!

[Atley]: Shut up and send us more pigs to slay!

[Jocoza]: I think that's the last of them? Let's go back to Ceristrasz.
[Jocoza]: I do hope this brought their people some peace.

Bennarin nods.

Ceristrasz says: You've returned.

[Bennarin]: Yessir.

[Jocoza]: And we've done as you asked, with the acorns.

Bennarin nods.

[Cressidha]: I counted twelve of your people that we returned to the earth.

Ceristrasz says: In the earth, my brothers can grant life anew. You have saved them from a fate far worse than death.
Ceristrasz says: I don't know a word in your tongue that could express how much this means to my kind. Thank you, friends.

[Cressidha]: I am sorry for your loss, regardless, and glad we were able to be of aid.

[Atley]: We are now allies, my lord.

Jocoza nods. "As your allies, I hope you know you can always call on us for help."

Ceristrasz says: I have one final task for you, if willing you remain… one that should turn the tide of this fight.

[Bennarin]: Yessir.

Ceristrasz says: Return to the shrine and kill the necromancers that are fueling this onslaught. With them dead, we should be able to beat these forces back and eventually retake the shrine.

Atley growls. "With pleasure."

Ceristrasz says: I also need you to find the source of the corruption under the shrine and put an end to it.
Ceristrasz says: I know I have asked a lot of you, but if you do this for me, we will win this battle.

[Cressidha]: Gladly.

[Bennarin]: We are ready an' willin', sir.

[Auralind]: You ask no more than is necessary.

[Jocoza]: Cobalt Company is on it. Necromancers are a specialty.

[Aiseia]: Let's get on wi' it!

[Bennarin]: Hell yeah they are.

Jocoza suddenly jumps on her mechanostrider, and reaches a hand in her pocket.
Jocoza takes a few steps away.

Nunuzac squeezes her reins. "Aaah, again! Hard to breathe there. But we must."

Bennarin turns Dare expectantly to follow Jo, and raises his eyebrows at her.

[Jocoza]: Oh, actually. I think I need to head back to Dalaran. You all can fight the neccromancers without me, right?

[Cressidha]: We can.

[Bennarin]: I — oh. Yes'm. 'Course.

[Atley]: We'll slay them.

[Aiseia]: won't be as much fun, but yes.

[Cressidha]: Be well, Jo.

Jocoza nods. "Thanks. I'll catch up with you later, hear the stories!"

[Nunuzac]: Captain is busy. It must be important.

[Jocoza]: You too, keep safe.

[Auralind]: I will set one on fire for you, Jocoza.

Bennarin grins at Auralind. Not that she can tell.

Jocoza giggles at Auralind. "I'd appreciate that."
The giggle, Auralind can hear just fine.

Atley looks to Ben as the next highest in charge.

Jocoza pulls out a rune of teleport, and waves farewell.

Ceristrasz says: Travel safely. Your people have the watch of mine.

[Bennarin]: Okay. Cobalts, on me, I guess.

[Cressidha]: Understood.

[Velrin]: Aye.

[Atley]: In there!

[Cressidha]: Look.

Atley points over yonder.

[Nunuzac]: Under…
[Nunuzac]: Ghost!?

Yes, there is a ghost under the roots of the great big red-leafed tree at the center of the Ruby Shrine.

[Atley]: Aye, banshee by the looks of it.

[Bennarin]: A — yeah. A banshee ghost.

[Cressidha]: A banshee, it appears to be.

The banshshee shrieks her last when they they enter the shrine with a whole lot of magic and sharp objects. As she dissipates, a bright brooch falls to the ground, and the ethereal image of an uncorrupted high elven form strides slowly into the shrine.

Nunuzac stares at Remnant of Dahlia Suntouch.

[Atley]: T'may be a trick. We ought to circle back in a moment and see if it's properly 'slain.'

Remnant of Dahlia Suntouch says: I've lived here and kept this shrine with the blessing of the Alexstrasza for longer than I can remember. In it's darkest hour, I've failed… I fell at the feet of that damned deathknight… Bloodbane.
Dahlia spits on the ground at the thought of the name.
Remnant of Dahlia Suntouch says: The Lich King is stretching his hand far now… fearlessly treading on the most sacred lands of all of the flights. He intends to force us to action.

Atley peers at Remnant of Dahlia Suntouch searchingly.

Remnant of Dahlia Suntouch says: My time is done… I offered myself to Alexstrasza in life, but I have nothing left to offer in death. She will need a new keeper for her shrine.
Remnant of Dahlia Suntouch says: And thank you… thank you for freeing me from the shackles of the damned. You are a hero… I know you will go on to great deeds.
The Remnant of Dahlia Suntouch fades away…

[Bennarin]: … oh.

Atley grunts solemnly.

[Cressidha]: We will…
Cressidha trails off as Dahlia's ghost vanishes.

[Atley]: Ought teach whoever this 'Bloodbane' is a new definition of pain.

Bennarin turns his head and spits on the ground. Because Sad.

Atley wipes some rotted filth from his sword.

[Velrin]: Agreed

[Cressidha]: Is that…
Cressidha collects a [Ruby Brooch] from the ground.

[Bennarin]: What? What you got?

Cressidha brushes a smudge of dirt off of the brooch, and it shines in the light.

Atley squints at Cressidha.

[Cressidha]: A possession of hers, I imagine.
[Cressidha]: Perhaps Ceristrasz will know who best to…

Atley grunts. "Aye."

Bennarin nods once.

[Cressidha]: …inform of her fate.

[Bennarin]: Yeah.

Cressidha polishes the brooch off on her robe and pockets it. For now.

Nunuzac finally lets out a bit of a sigh, her vaguely distraught expression she'd been wearing since ghouls and acorns falling. "This fight is hard. This death disease. Bone stealers. I never see it this bad."

[Bennarin]: Let's clear off the rest of them necromancers.

Atley grunts.

[Velrin]: It seems not even the dragons can remain untouched by war…

[Cressidha]: It is, yes.

Atley points at Duke Vallenhal.

There is a Duke. The blood sings to you, Dane.

[Atley]: Wretch.

The death knight is no more. A handful of necromancers remain.

Atley spits on the ground.

Nunuzac scrambles over a huge root not unlike a mountain goat. Just don't say it to her face.

Bennarin would not. She is obviously a space goat.
[Bennarin]: That looks like all of 'em?

[Atley]: We've cut down all we could find, aye.

[Bennarin]: Okay. Let's report.

Cressidha nods.

[Nunuzac]: Death mages gone… no more dead things. Yes?
Nunuzac sounds hopeful.

Bennarin salutes Ceristrasz with respect.

Ceristrasz says: Once more you have returned to me, even after all I have asked of you.

[Cressidha]: Once the remainder of the ones those who have already animated are put to rest, then yes, Nunuzac.

[Bennarin]: Yessir. We have took care of the necromancers.

Ceristrasz says: What news - what did you find under our shrine?

Atley's look darkens. "One of yours, turned undead, milord."

[Bennarin]: A banshee of the… caretaker lady.

[Cressidha]: I regret to report, ah… your shrine keeper.
Cressidha produces the ruby brooch.

Ceristrasz frowns deeply. "A… banshee?" He looks sadly over the brooch.
Ceristrasz says: Dahlia has been loyal to us for a very long time… if they can corrupt a being of her devotion, it does not bode well for the rest of the young races.
Ceristrasz says: Thank you for freeing her. I hope she has found some peace.

[Cressidha]: She spoke to us, briefly, as another shade of her former self, before dispersing entirely.

Bennarin nods grimly. "I am sorry, sir."

Atley grunts sympathetically.

Velrin's expression turns sullen, "I am sorry…"

Ceristrasz says: Then that heartens me, that perhaps now she is truly at peace.
Ceristrasz says: You have honored us with your selfless assistance today, Cobalt. I will send word to the council of what your kind have accomplished here. Go with our blessing.

[Cressidha]: She said that Alexstrasza would need to find a new keeper for her shrine, and of the death knight who killed her, Bloodbane.

Atley narrows his eyes.

[Cressidha]: Who should I…
Cressidha holds up the brooch. "Is there someone she was close to, who would wish to have this? Or if it is a symbol of her office, who should it be returned to?"

Ceristrasz says: Please, take Dahlia's brooch to Torialstrasz. He may know of how best to address it.

[Cressidha]: We shall do so.

Ceristrasz says: A new keeper will be found in time. When it is safe from this onslaught. Go with my deepest thanks, and the gratitude of my flight.

Bennarin salutes Ceristrasz with respect.

Cressidha bows and climbs back into the saddle.

Atley inclines his head.

[Bennarin]: It is our honor to help out the dragonflights, sir.

Velrin places a hand on her heart.

Ceristrasz bows solemnly.

[Bennarin]: Let's get to the Temple, all.

[Nunuzac]: Yes, ready!

[Cressidha]: Indeed.

[Bennarin]: Sh*t.

Atley glares.

[Nunuzac]: To Steward Tario, yes? He becomes happy to know… ah. *she fidgets uncertainly* Happy we help.

Tariolstrasz regards them with softened eyes. "You're back".

Bennarin clears his throat and shrugs back into his composure.

[Bennarin]: We are back, sir, yes.

[Cressidha]: We have come from the Ruby Dragonshrine. I have grave news for you about its keeper, I am afraid.

Tariolstrasz says: Ceristrasz sent word ahead of you. Thank you for what you did at the Ruby Dragonshrine.

[Nunuzac]: Wow, word goes fast! Maybe it goes with wings.

Tariolstrasz bows his head thoughtfully for a moment.

Atley grunts.

[Cressidha]: So you are aware of the fate of Daliah Suntouch? I… have a possession of hers that I would see returned to its next rightful owner.

Cressidha holds up the ruby brooch once again.

Tariolstrasz frowns a bit at the brooch. "The queen's consort is responsible for the keeper of the shrine. You must return this to Korialstrasz above, when you go."
Tariolstrasz Because you will go. I think that you are ready to see the queen now.

Cressidha bows.

Bennarin's eyes widen briefly and then he tries to look casual. Be cool, Ben.

[Cressidha]: As you say.

Atley raises his brows.

Tariolstrasz says: When you are ready, I will see to it that one of these drakes delivers you safely to the top of the temple. I will inform Trueblade of your sucess, and Alexstrasza will be pleased to see to you in person.

[Bennarin]: Yessir. We will be honored.

Cressidha is already cool. She's so cool. She does, however, run a hand over her hair.

Tariolstrasz says: This drake will take you to the queen's chamber immediately.

Aiseia gulps. Alexstrasza?

Bennarin checks his tabard. He smooths the front of it, and then drags a hand through his hair, which makes it worse. Okay, he's ready.

Atley immediately looks over his own armor with obsessive attentiveness, picking off bits of rotted gore.

Auralind dips her head. "Thank you, Steward. We are deeply honored."

Nunuzac fidgets even more, her eyes growing wide. Yet another audience with a monarch? This is her day.

Cressidha nods politely to the drake in question.

[Aiseia]: I'm na' going first.

Cressidha goes first.

Tariolstrasz says: motions to the drake. "He is an excellent flyer and cautious with mortals."

Velrin shifts a little uneasily.

[Nunuzac]: Ooh, me next!

They all eventually find the courage to each take the assistance of one of Tariolstrasz's drakes
to the extremely high-up queen's chamber.

[Aiseia]: YEAAAAAHHH!
Aiseia lands, exhilarated.

Bennarin takes a deep breath and makes his hair worse again.

Atley stands straighter, brushing off his armor one last time.

[Bennarin]: Okay. She is — I am guessin' she is the queen-lookin' one they are standin' around.

Cressidha waits patiently, nodding at the arrival of the others. She seems composed.

Nunuzac claps a bit when her hooves find the ground again, delighted. Then she goes wide eyed at all the huge dragons.

Aiseia catches sight of the people waiting, and stands up straight.

[Bennarin]: I will go first, but Cressidha you should maybe — do the talkin' part. For nice impression.
Velrin does her best to fix her hair and fluff the feather in her hair.

Bennarin is trying not to look at all the dragons. The dragon-people are sufficiently intimidating.

Cielstrasza says: Travelers from below. You're the ones who went out to the shrine? The queen is right over there. Go ahead.

[Cressidha]: Very well.

[Bennarin]: … aw shit Chromie's here.
[Bennarin]: And the Cap'n left.

Atley eyes Chromie up and down.

Cressidha's expression brightens with recognition as she notices Chromie and Kalecgos.

Bennarin grins at Chromie.

Atley peers at Kalecgos searchingly.

Aiseia waves at Kalecgos.

Velrin regards Chromie with a melancholy glance.

Bennarin stops grinning. He is serious business.

Cressidha kneels before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

Bennarin bows before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

Chromie regards the travelers with cheerful interest, but gives them decent berth to approach the queen.

Atley bows before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

[Atley]: Your Majesty.
Atley growls before quieting down.

Velrin kneels before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

Cressidha drops politely to one knee.

Auralind kneels before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

Aiseia kneels before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

[Auralind]: Al'shar Asto're

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder looks out over the travelers, unmoved from her regal but unthreatening poise. "Greetings, my friends. You honor me with your presence."

Atley bows low and keeps it but otherwise keeps his feet.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: How may I help you?

Bennarin looks at Cressidha. Go on, tell the Dragon Queen how to help us, Cressidha. In a polite way.

[Cressidha]: Your majesty, we are Cobalt Company. This is Lieutenant Ben Hazan and squad captain Dane Atley, and I am Cressidha Aspenwood. We bring you a letter of introduction from Archmage Modera.

Bennarin salutes Alexstrasza the Life-Binder with respect.

Cressidha offers the letter in question over.

Atley remains stone faced.

Bennarin eyes the Dragon Queen's outfit Respectfully.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder accepts the letter. "Of course, the Archmage of the Kirin Tor. Please, a moment of your time to see to this." She reads Modera's explanation.

Cressidha nods. "Of course," she says, and gives the Queen time to read.

Atley obediently inclines his head.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: I see. You have been very courageous to bring us that information.
Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: I was beginning to wonder why the blue dragonflight had so boldly initiated an attack upon the temple itself. Now we know that they are using enormous amounts of the very magic they view as such a threat to Azeroth.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder shakes her head in seeming resignation.

Cressidha nods.
[Cressidha]: We also have grave news from the Ruby Dragonshrine. I regret to report that its keeper, Daliah Suntouch, was slain in its defense. We freed her from an afterlife as a banshee. I was told to bring this to Korialstrasz?
Cressidha produces the ruby brooch once again.

Bennarin works his jaw in silence, grimly.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: …I see. Enough about the hypocrysy of Malygos, then.

In the presence of Krasus, the Ruby Brooch responds. Its faint glow brightens slightly.

Atley's keen green eyes flicker towards the Brooch.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder gives pause. "Krasus, is that what I think it is?"

Krasus, the queen's consort, nods in acknowledgement of your presence. "I thought I sensed the presence of my brooch. Hand it here."

Cressidha passes it over immediately and steps back with the rest.

Krasus extends his hand to accept the Ruby Brooch. "If Dahlia was taken by the Scourge, this is a sad day for all of us."
Krasus says: I will look to finding a new keeper once the shrine is retaken. Thank you for your efforts… the Ruby Dragonshrine is a sacred place to us, and the sacrifices your kind have made will not be easily forgotten.

Atley inclines his head again, and holds it.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: In that case, you have personally seen to Ceristrasz's aid today, in addition to this better explanation of what has been happening toward Stars' Rest.

[Cressidha]: Yes, your majesty. Cobalt Company is at your disposal in the future, should you have more ways in which you believe we could be of aid.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder closes her eyes gently while acknowledging the news about the battles her flight - her family - are enduring, and about the keeper of the shrine.
Alexstrasza the Life-Binder holds herself as someone prepared to face the realities of what she faces without flinching. It is not the first time she has known war.
Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: Listen to me, my friends. The risks you have taken on to aid my flight have touched me. It reassures me to know your names and faces, and the hope rises that we might carry this momentum forward.

Atley grunts in the affirmative, but otherwise remains attentive.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: Representatives of other flights often gather here as we all keep watch over how things are proceeding here in Dragonblight. With your leave, I will share word of your deeds among us, that they might seek you out.

Cressidha looks at Ben.

Bennarin straightens. "Ma'am. It will be our honor."
Bennarin appears to be having an Emotion of some kind.

[Velrin]: Of course, your majesty… *she bows*

Atley nods once in support.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: I am pleased to hear it. As well, I have appointed Lord Devrestrasz as the commander of Wyrmrest's defenses. Should any of your people be willing, he will not refuse volunteers.
Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: I abhor the loss of life… any life. But I will not stand idly by and allow Malygos to kill us and defile the temple.

[Bennarin]: Cobalt Company will not, neither, ma'am.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: Come and go with our blessing. The blue flight and the Scourge threaten us all. To join in our fight is to advance your own.

Atley flinches briefly but otherwise stays still.

Bennarin bows before Alexstrasza.

Krasus says: And thank you, for seeing to our shrine.
Krasus says: It is good to know there are still heroes such as you - I will call upon you one day. Until that day comes, may your adventures be fruitful.

[Bennarin]: Thank you, sir.

Bennarin looks at Cressidha. What is another polite thing, here?

[Atley]: You honor us with your presence, your majesty, my lord.

Atley bows before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

Bennarin glances at Dane. Dang.

[Cressidha]: With your leave, unless you have further need of us…

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder nods at Krasus's words, then offers Cressidha and Ben a nod as well, turning a small glance over each of the visitors. The gesture is friendly and somehow welcoming, but clearly an assent to their departure.

Atley looks to Ben.

Bennarin bows again to Alexstrasza the Life-Binder and then backs up respectfully.

Cressidha bows politely and turns to depart.

[Velrin]: Elune light your path, your majesty.

Velrin bows before Alexstrasza the Life-Binder.

They begin exiting the queen's immediate presence.

Alexstrasza the Life-Binder says: Live well. I have known you since before you were born.

Atley just … inclines his head again, at that.

[Bennarin]: … what did she say?

[Atley]: We are well known.

Nunuzac looks mildly alarmed at that statement, blinking a bit as she hurriedly follows along.

Atley mutters quietly.

Cressidha does not trip, but she definitely pauses for a second before she keeps going.

[Bennarin]: … okay.

[Aiseia]: She's the Life-Binder. She knows everything.

[Nunuzac]: Oh. My. Good. Nets.

[Bennarin]: My good nets is right.

[Atley]: So't seems.

Cressidha takes several deep breaths. She seems very calm.

Nunuzac vibrates mildly. "Dragons." She whispers, looking around. Yes. there are quite a few.

Atley glances around at the swarm of fully sized dragons.

Bennarin exhales deeply.

[Atley]: I'd not believe it myself without seeing it.

[Cressidha]: If we are welcome here, now… is there, perhaps, a flight path?

[Bennarin]: That is — I mean. This is. Yeah. Let's — okay, let's see if we can get a flight path, sure.

Cielstrasza laughs gently as she watches some of them look a little awestruck. "The queen has that effect on people, doesn't she? Just ask Tora for a lift if you want to go back down."
Cielstrasza gestures across at a great big full grown dragon Majordomo.

[Bennarin]: Oh. Yes'm, thank you.
Bennarin nods respectfully.

[Cressidha]: Thank you.

[Atley]: You've my thanks.

Atley nods to Cielstrasza.

Bennarin glares, narrow-eyed, at the approaching orc.

Atley eyes Golluck Rockfist up and down.

[Atley]: P'raps that jabbering boar's forgotten these creatures are no longer slaves.
Atley snarls hatefully.

Majordomo Torastrasz helpfully aids them all in securing drake-flights back down to the ground level.

Nunuzac holds her hands over her mouth when she reaches the ground again. She says something but it's wholly muffled.

Bennarin glances from Dane to Nunuzac. He raises his eyebrows.
[Bennarin]: Okay there, Nunu?

Nunuzac exhales. "That was so big and fast." Maybe the dragon, maybe the whole day.

Bennarin nods gravely.

[Cressidha]: It was.

[Bennarin]: Yeah. It was real big and fast.

[Atley]: You've done well as a diplomat, Nunuzac.
[Atley]: You's well, Ben.

Nunuzac straighens up and beams at the compliment.

Cressidha looks at Dane expectantly. Where is her compliment?

[Bennarin]: Me? Nah. But y'all did a hell of a job. And Nunu, yeah, thank you. Cressidha, also, thank you.

Cressidha smiles and nods to Ben.

Atley eyes Cressidha and nods his head respectfully. "Who else but Cressidha'd speak on our behalf to the Queen herself?"

[Nunuzac]: Oh yes, I tell right away when I hear help is needs!

[Cressidha]: Ah, well.
[Cressidha]: About that flight path…?

[Bennarin]: Where's it at, you reckon?

[Atley]: Could … properly any one of them ordered to fly us about…
Atley growls thoughtfully as he looks around.

[Bennarin]: I do not recommend any members of Cobalt Company, uh, order any dragons to fly 'em around.
[Bennarin]: Just a heads up.

Atley grunts.

Bennarin eyes Wyrmrest Protector up and down.

[Atley]: I've a question for the night elves among us.

[Nunuzac]: But if they say you can ride as a present! You must go. To not be rude.

Bennarin nods respectfully to Nunuzac.

Cressidha says, "Hm?" even though she is definitely not one of the night elves.

Nunuzac looks curious.

Atley looks between Auralind and Velrin. "Our campaign here's short two sentinels. Will you lot be lingering in this frozen hellscape?"

[Velrin]: I have been commanding a group of rangers here in Northrend, so I will be here if you need.

[Auralind]: For a time. I still have business in Outland demanding my attention. But…it is my hope that will be resolved soon.

[Cressidha]: It was good to work with you again, regardless. Both of you.

Atley grunts and nods. "S'good to keep an eye on our previous prizes, even with the war here."
Atley grunts at Cressidha.

[Nunuzac]: I make a bet Ambassador Trueblade happy to see, too.
[Nunuzac]: Too-also, not two-number.

Auralind smirks at Nunuzac.

Nunuzac sees a need to clarify that probably has a precedent.

Atley glances around. "Now for that … bloody flightmaster."
[Atley]: Let's do a lap, shall we?

[Bennarin]: I seen some heading this way.
Bennarin points over yonder.

[Atley]: On you, Ben.

[Nunuzac]: Oh, the register dragon. He is this way yes.

[Cressidha]: Ah.

Bennarin tries not to flinch as another dragon corpse plummets.

[Atley]: With the portals open, will you lot be returning to the Kingdoms? Or stay in Dalaran?

[Cressidha]: I imagine I'll be all over the place.

[Bennarin]: I am stayin' in Dalaran long term. I got to go back I reckon for that — party thing, though.
[Bennarin]: But then Dalaran.

Cressidha updates her passport.

[Nunuzac]: Hmm! I stay up here unless someone needs me. I stay in Moa'ki!

[Atley]: Ah, with the Kalu'ak. Brilliant.

Bennarin smiles at Nunuzac.

[Velrin]: I have been staying in Dalaran. My company is based there for the time being, and I have a friend who lives there besides.

[Auralind]: I hope to be in your company again soon, my friends.

Cressidha smiles faintly.

[Bennarin]: Miz Auralind, it was good as hell workin' with you again. Give Nellie my best?

[Atley]: Ivri's returned home. I'll be about, as well.
Atley nods to Cressidha.

[Auralind]: I will, Ben.

[Bennarin]: Thank you, ma'am.

Auralind salutes to the gathered company, then departs.

[Atley]: I'm off. See you lot when I see you. Good to see and those blades in action.
Atley adds, side-eyeing Velrin.
Atley salutes Bennarin with respect.

[Bennarin]: Yeah, see you all. Take care.

[Cressidha]: Farewell, everyone.

Bennarin salutes Atley with respect.

Cressidha leaves in a normal way.

[Bennarin]: Nunu, 'preciate you.

Velrin grins, "And it is good to see your blade has not dulled either."

Atley grunts.

Nunuzac waves vigorously. "Bye! I am happy I go with you today. Even if dead things are scary."

Bennarin smiles at Nunuzac. He nods respectfully to Velrin.

Nunuzac barks. Woof woof!

She zooms off in ghost wolf form, energized from the eventful outing.