(2023-12-10) Frost, Earth, and Iron (S12 E5 - White Squad Log)

Details

Author:	inkie
Summary:	White Squad helps Brann Bronzebeard reassemble the keystone to the Ulduar archives, and then they witness another reassembly. Afterward, they report to the aid of Ulduar's former Earthen craftsmen, now besieged by Loken's iron minions, and attempt to bring revolution to the mechagnomes.
Rating:	M for Mature 17+

Arc: Season 12

Ben is still wearing his enormous scarf and his leather coat draped awkwardly over his armor. He rubs his hands together, shoulders hunched, and nods to the others.

[Brannagen]: Lo there, ser.

Brannagen seems fine.

[Ben]: Hey, y'all. Cold enough for you?

Auralind tilts her head.

Oranna waves.

[Auralind]: Cold enough? Why would I wish it to be colder?

Brannagen chuckles.

[Ben]: It is an expression. When it's real cold.

[Auralind]: I see…

[Brannagen]: Humans also do it when it's real hot.

[Ben]: Also you can say, 'Hot enough for you?' when it's real hot.

Ben grins at Bran.

Brannagen taps his nose and points to Ben.

Auralind nods slowly. Humans are so weird.

[Oranna]: Oh, an' it will get colder, won't it? It's not quite winter yet.

Ben stares at Oranna.

[Ben]: … will it?

[Ben]: Colder'n this?

[Brannagen]: It might, aye.

[Brannagen]: Generally next month is coldest, most places.

Ben looks around slowly at the glacial cave they're standing in.

[Ben]: Uh.

[Oranna]: Oh, aye, it should. At least a little bit, really get the good ice in.

Brannagen nods contentedly. Good ice.

[Ben]: What is — how d'you know when it's good ice?

Befound brushes up against Bran as she passes by, settling into the snow.

[Brannagen]: Lo there lass! *To Befound*

[Auralind]: You are not trapped in it.

Oranna laughs at Auralind.

[Ben]: … I feel that, yeah.

Auralind smirks.

[Oranna]: Oh, ye know, the kind that can last through the heat. So it stays colder year round.

[Ben]: … there's ice that lasts through heat?

Ben looks deeply uneasy.

[Oranna]: Imagine if all this jus'…melted, in the spring. It'd flood it all.

[Brannagen]: I have somethin real important ta tell all of ye before we start. A theng I realized after our trip to all them temples.

Ben is still distressed at the thought of Lasting Ice, but he looks at Bran.

[Ben]: What's that?

[Oranna]: Oh. Is it…Wha' is it?

[Brannagen]: I am at least eighty-seven percent sure tha' HODIR IS GREATFATHER WENTER.

Auralind faces Bran, ears turning toward him.

[Ben]: Sorry. What?

[Brannagen]: The stories come from us, righ'? The Greatfather Wenter stories. From dwarves.

[Oranna]: Ah…*Oranna cannot look any more skeptical than she does.* Right. That's…that's true.

[Brannagen]: An' some of 'em say Greatfather Wenter was some kind o' Titan or Titan-like being.

[Ben]: For serious?

Oranna rolls her eyes and mutters something.

Ben is round-eyed.

[Brannagen]: We literally just explored a place called the Temple o' Winter, supposedly the temple of a Keeper o' the Titans called Hodir.

[Auralind]: So…a Titan has reindeer friends and hands out presents every Winter Veil?

[Brannagen]: Well that bit we made up later.

[Ben]: I mean. Metaphorical maybe.

[Oranna]: But tha's jus' a season. It's no' like it was called Temple o' Winter Veil, or Temple o' Presents, or what have ye.

Ben looks intrigued by the idea of a Temple of Presents.

[Brannagen]: But I'm sayin', the legends may be based on a real theng, warped over all the passin' down of et.

Ben nods at Bran.

[Brannagen]: An he en't called Greatfather Presents, either.

[Ben]: That is how stories work, I reckon, yeah.

[Ben]: They get — all kind of shit attached to 'em. The old stories.

[Brannagen]: The legend says he drapes a veil o' winter over the land. The rest of et is how we celebrate tha'.

[Brannagen]: So anyway, I thought maybe I'd throw a Winter Veil party there later. A' the temple. Hehe.

[Brannagen]: That is all, ser.

[Ben]: Oh shit, yeah. I will come. That sounds amazin'.

Brannagen laughs at Ben.

Ben forgot that he hates winter. A party! At Greatfather Winter's house!

[Ben]: That's a real good idea.

Oranna looks uneasy. Is it because of the location or the prospect of a party? Who can say.

[Brannagen]: Since he en't a' home he canna object, aye?

[Auralind]: I…suppose not.

[Oranna]: Eh…

[Brannagen]: An' if he DOES, well that'll be even MORE excitin'.

Brannagen grins.

[Ben]: And I mean if he comes home and some people are havin' a party in his honor, well, then, it's just a homecomin' party.

Auralind chuckles.

Brannagen nods at Ben.

[Oranna]: I'm no' sure I'd see it tha' way, but who knows wha' those guardians are thinkin'.

Brannagen shrugs at Oranna. Who knows?

[Ben]: … anyway, uh. Speakin' of homecomin'.

Ben glances over his shoulder.

Ben lowers his voice.

[Ben]: I wrote the Captain about — King Stormbeard. Heart. King Stormheart.

[Brannagen]: She'll know the best way ta handle et I'm sure. Seems a sensible lass.

[Ben]: She said she was gonna handle it with Ironforge. She already let 'em know after what we seen in the Dragonblight, so.

Oranna leans forward. "Oh, ah. An'….so…are we gonna — I mean, no' we us, necessarily, but we, big version o' we….do we still no' say anythin'?"

[Brannagen]: We should keep mum in the meantime I imagine, aye.

[Ben]: We ain't got to say nothin'. Captain give it to Ironforge to deal with, it is their business.

[Ben]: We just do what we got hired here to do.

[Brannagen]: Ye have NO idea how hard it is not ta write me ma.

Brannagen lets out a long, drawn-out sigh.

Oranna nods. Okay. She can keep a secret. She can…well, she can maybe avoid everyone and eye contact maybe.

[Ben]: Which speakin' of that, we got to go back to see that Keeper, Cretinus.

Brannagen fidgets excitedly.

Brannagen cheers!

Oranna nods at Ben.

[Oranna]: Of course.

[Ben]: Everyone all set?

[Brannagen]: Aye, ser.

Auralind nods.

Oranna checks over at Befound, rousing herself with a cat's reluctance. "Aye."

Ben whistles for Stratus.

[Ace]: Ready!

[Brannagen]: Who's a ready girl!

Brannagen smiles at Befound.

They are all ready girls. Off they go!

[Ben]: There he is.

Oranna waves at Creteus.

[Oranna]: Hullo, again.

Brannagen bows before Creteus.

Creteus says: Hello, small ones.

Creteus says: I believe I am now in possession of information that you deem pertinent.

[Ben]: Yessir?

Brannagen fidgets!

Creteus says: During your absence, I was privileged enough to parley with the dwarf Brann Bronzebeard. This dwarf relayed to me his purpose for seeking the keystone, and indicated that you are assisting him.

Creteus says: I am satisfied that it is for correct intent. In fact, I believe this dwarf may be the entity for which the keystone was created.

[Brannagen]: Whaaaaaaaat

Ben 's eyes widen again.

[Ben]: Damn.

[Auralind]: Interesting.

[Brannagen]: I knew there was somethin' special about 'im.

[Oranna]: Oh. Ah…*Oranna frowns.*

Creteus says: Norgannon’s Core is located in the Frigid Tomb to the southeast. Its guardians are ancient beings of ice, and they will not welcome your presence. Best these guardians and retrieve the keystone with my blessing.

Oranna sighs at Creteus.

[Ben]: Yessir.

Ben salutes Creteus with respect.

[Brannagen]: No problem!

They head for the Frigid Tomb.

[Brannagen]: So Brann's part o' some… grand Titan plan???

Brannagen looks like he might need a bag to breathe into.

[Ben]: I mean. Damn.

[Oranna]: Or so they're sayin'.

[Ben]: Reckon this is the cave he meant. Ice guardians an' all.

[Brannagen]: Seems so.

[Ben]: I did not think it could get more colder than outside.

Ben shivers.

[Brannagen]: A few irascible icicles canna stop Cobalt Company!

[Auralind]: Is it cold enough for you now?

[Ben]: I —

Oranna laughs at Auralind.

Ben grins at Auralind.

[Ben]: That was a good one, ma'am.

Auralind smirks.

Brannagen turns toward Auralind and says, "Wink!"

Auralind grins at Bran.

[Ben]: How you get snow in a cave? This far down?

[Oranna]: Wind an' water, usually.

[Ben]: It is a maze in here.

[Brannagen]: Amazin'!

[Ben]: Hah.

Auralind chuckles.

Oranna chuckles at Brannagen.

Brannagen thought he was agreeing.

[Brannagen]: Oooooh a box. A theng.

[Oranna]: Oh, so it is.

Ben peers in the direction Bran is looking.

[Brannagen]: A um… whatsit called.

[Ben]: Huh.

[Auralind]: A theng?

[Ben]: A chest?

Ben examines the chest.

[Ben]: Okay, y'all stay back.

[Oranna]: Sorta looks like a coffin, truth be told…

[Ace]: A coffer!

[Brannagen]: Aye!!

[Ben]: I dunno if it is trapped or nothin'.

Brannagen thanks Ace.

[Ben]: … or a coffer.

Ben might now have ‘coffin’ and ‘coffer’ conflated.

[Brannagen]: I got heals ready.

Ben steps forward and eases the stone lid back with a grinding sound.

[Brannagen]: Love tha' sound.

Oranna watches with an uneasy expression, her eyes looking for traps. Or bombs. Or random ice.

As the chest opens, air rushes out into the chamber, carrying with it the musty smell of something that has been here for countless years. Norgannon’s Core rests at the bottom of the chest, undisturbed by the ages.

[Brannagen]: Love tha' SMELL.

Auralind wrinkles her nose, recoiling. "You love that?"

[Oranna]: Smells like somethin' musty.

[Ben]: … I think that's it. Is that it?

Ben glances at Bran for confirmation.

Brannagen stands on his tiptoes.

Brannagen half climbs up the side of the coffer, peering in.

[Brannagen]: Ohhhh aye, that'd be et.

[Ben]: You want to carry it, sir?

[Brannagen]: Oh I sure would, ser.

[Brannagen]: I sure would.

[Ben]: G'wan then.

Oranna watches the floating ice orbs. Huh.

As the core is lifted from the chest, heavy footsteps rush toward White Squad from the corridor. The distant sounds of battle echo along the cavern walls from without.

Auralind whirls to face the sound.

Frostborn Axemaster says: Hail! I hate to rush you, but there's an army of iron dwarves here to stop whatever you and Creteus are trying to do… we need to get out of here.

Oranna jumps three feet in the air. Almost, anyway.

[Ben]: A army?!

Ben draws his sword.

[Oranna]: I…wha' — ?

[Ben]: Let's get movin', then.

They hurry back up through the cavern tunnels, accompanied by the Frostborn dwarf. The clash and din of fighting can be heard from ahead.

Frostborn Axemaster says: King Stormheart caught wind of the iron dwarves heading this way and brought all the best warriors he could muster on such short notice.

They round a bend in the tunnel and find themselves facing a pitched battle between a handful of Frostborn and a good dozen or so iron dwarves.

[Ben]: Oh shit.

[Ben]: There's so many of 'em!

[Brannagen]: We got thes!

White Squad dives into the fray, cutting their way out of the cave with the assistance of the Frostborn dwarves.

Ben nods to a Frostborn Axemaster respectfully.

[Ben]: Exit up ahead!

Frostborn Axemaster says: Quickly, Creteus is to the west. King Stormheart is holding them off, but they have the advantage of numbers.

Frostborn Axemaster says: By the watchers, look at him fight. I've never seen a more vicious warrior… I'm glad to call him my king.

Ben gapes at the sight of the battle raging on the snowy plain.

Oranna is breathing in almost perfect metronome.

[Ben]: I see him! I see Creteus. Over there!

Ben points at Creteus.

[Ben]: Bran, you got the Core?

[Brannagen]: We sure kicked a hornet's nest, aye? Aye, I got it.

Frostborn Axemaster says: We'll hold them off as long as we can. Do whatever you need to do quickly!

Oranna looks over at 'Yorg' worriedly.

Brannagen salutes Yorg Stormheart with respect.

White Squad races through the fray toward Keeper Creteus.

[Ben]: Sir! Sir! We got it.

Ben waves at Creteus.

Creteus says: Someone is using the Forge of Wills to create this army! Ulduar is no longer safe.

Creteus says: I am pleased you were able to reach the Core before these abominations were.

Brannagen holds out the Core.

Creteus nods at Bran but does not bend to take it.

Oranna glances back over her shoulder repeatedly as 'Yorg' fights. He's fine, right? He'll be fine. Right?

Creteus says: Combining the keystone will require Norgannon’s Binding — a device located in the Engine of the Makers, the large pit beside us. Brann should be down there with the other half of the keystone now.

Brannagen slowwwly retracts the Core and tucks it away.

Creteus says: I have instructed him on the use of the device. He awaits your presence.

[Brannagen]: We're on it, ser!

Creteus says: I will do what I can to keep the iron dwarves occupied, but I do not have confidence that I will hold them for long. King Stormheart is returning to the defense of Frosthold with some of his men shortly, and in a little while.

Creteus says: Please hurry.

Brannagen 's eyes are aglow with excitement!!

[Ben]: Get the gryphons! We will fly down there to Brann.

Brannagen lets forth a sharp whistle.

They soar over the battle and dive into the deep pit of the Engine of the Makers. At the bottom, they find Brann Bronzebeard — in person! — standing before a strange console.

[Oranna]: Oh, there he is.

Brannagen gasps at Brann Bronzebeard.

Brannagen looks about ten years old. Except for the beard.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Hey there, friends! Good to meet ya in person! Did ya find it?

[Ben]: We — yessir. Bran has got it.

[Brannagen]: H-here ser.

Brannagen holds it out.

Oranna looks like she's not sure if she should ask if what Brann's working on can or cannot explode.

Brann Bronzebeard accepts the Core from Bran reverently. "You’re brilliant, Cobalts, brilliant! This will be a glorious day indeed."

[Brannagen]: Aye! *Bran's eyes sparkle!*

Brann Bronzebeard says: No time to stand about on proper introductions and chit-chat. Let's assemble the keystone before those iron dwarves make their way down here!

[Brannagen]: Aye, ser.

Oranna mutters if they've ever had proper introductions at any other time.

Brann Bronzebeard turns away and works nimbly at the console in front of him.

Brannagen fidgets as he watches.

Brann Bronzebeard says: THAT DOES IT! We finally have the keystone! It’s… beautiful.

Brann Bronzebeard says: I’ve been around the world more than once, but this thing’s got me all jittery with excitement again. I suppose now’s not the time to stop and admire, though — we need to get the heck out of here!

Brannagen fidgets impatiently while waiting for Brann Bronzebeard.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Hop on my flying machine and help keep us covered from those iron dwarves on the way out!

Brannagen cheers at Brann Bronzebeard!

Brann Bronzebeard says: I can't thank you enough for all of your help in putting together the keystone. Great things will come of this, I assure you.

Brann revs up his flying machine, and White Squad, despite having their own team of gryphons, for some reason clamber onto it. Literally onto it. There isn’t a lot of room. Standing on wings is required. It doesn’t seem aerodynamic. Brann Bronzebeard doesn’t seem concerned. Not about their flightworthiness, at least.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Iron dwarves… everywhere…. they're making their way down from the top. They certainly are persistent.

Brann Bronzebeard says: They're trying to take down the plane! I can't pull up any steeper… you need to keep them off of us!

Good thing White Squad is standing all over his plane, it turns out! As iron dwarf agents hurl themselves from ledges and onto the plane, White Squad battles them right back off again.

Brann Bronzebeard says: There are more up ahead — keep at it!

Brann Bronzebeard says: We're almost out… just a little bit farther.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Barring stray boulders from those giants, we should be clear… it seems a mess from down there though.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Their numbers are unbelievable… I'm glad to hear King Stormheart came to your aid. I only hear good things of him — I think it's high time we meet.

Brann flies over Creteus' corpse, surrounded by iron dwarves.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Poor Creteus. He was a good keeper… I'm glad he at least got to see his task to completion, I imagine that's all that really mattered to him.

Brann Bronzebeard says: We're coming up on Frosthold. I would be very appreciative if you would introduce me to King Stormheart before you go. I believe we are all very much in his debt.

Who’s gonna say something? White Squad’s not gonna say something.

Brann lands and beelines determinedly for King Yorg Stormheart, trailed a little awkwardly by White Squad.

Brann stops and looks Yorg over incredulously.

Brann Bronzebeard says: By all the gods… it can't be… Muradin?!

Yorg Stormheart says: What's that? You talkin' to me, lad?

Ben looks between the two.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Come on boy, there's no mistak'n it — it's definitely you. Don't ya recognize your younger brother?!

Ace punches the air.

Yorg Stormheart says: My brother… yes… I do have brothers…

Brannagen v i b r a t e s.

Muradin clutches his head and reels for a moment as the memories rush back to him.

Oranna sweats.

Yorg Stormheart says: …Brann?

Brann Bronzebeard says: I can't believe this! We thought ye were dead! All accounts said so — and then we heard rumors of a vision some adventurers witnessed in Dragonblight… What happened, Muradin? How did you get here?

Yorg Stormheart says: I… I dun know, Brann. I've been 'ere a long time… all I 'ave of me life before this place are flashes and nightmares.

Yorg Stormheart says: It's good te see you though, brother. More than words can say.

Oranna blows out a gusty breath, oh thank the Light.

Brannagen pulls out a hankie and blows his nose. HONK.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Indeed! Magni will be so happy to see you too! He's gotten nothing but bad news for a long while now, but this changes everything!

Ben gives a soft whoop under his breath and then laughs a little.

Speak of the fellow…

Magni Bronzebeard yells: Look Lagnus, I consider you a capable man, but my patience is wearing thin. I know that Muradin is here, can you point me to him or not?!

Oranna looks off — she knows that voice.

[Ben]: Oh, shit.

Magni Bronzebeard yells: Brother! There you are! I can barely believe my eyes… you're alive!

Ben turns scarlet. Did the kings hear him?

Yorg Stormheart says: Magni! Forgive me, the memories are comin' back slowly, brother.

Magni Bronzebeard says: It's so good to see you again, Muradin. And what's this I heard about you being a King in your own right now? The Bronzebeards were always destined to greatness.

Brannagen kneels before Magni Bronzebeard.

Yorg Stormheart says: The Frostborn have been very good to me. They're strong people.

Auralind smiles warmly at the family reunion.

Ace is grinning like a fool.

Oranna hurriedly tries to bo– er, curts– look, it's fine, the brothers aren't even looking at her. She just turns red.

Magni Bronzebeard says: So it seems! And you haven't lost any muscle yourself. Do you remember anything of what happened, Muradin? Fate has turned ill in your absence.

Yorg Stormheart says: Not much, Magni. I've had nightmares of a human… tall… light hair… death black armor. His name rests on the tip of me tongue, but…

Yorg Stormheart says: …Arthas.

Magni nods.

Magni Bronzebeard says: He's not the boy of your memories anymore, Muradin. He's become something else entirely.

Ben 's smile fades.

Yorg Stormheart says: Aye, I know. I watched him turn… I watched him give up all that was right and I didn't lift a hand… I didn't even consider it until it was too late.

Brann Bronzebeard says: That's in the past, Muradin. Regrets won't change anything.

Brannagen looks solemn for once.

Yorg Stormheart says: No… no they won't. But I can make this right… I have te. I'm goin' after the boy. I'll make'm answer for everything he's done.

Magni Bronzebeard says: Are you sure Muradin? I just got you back after years of thinking you were dead. I do not want to lose you again.

Yorg Stormheart says: I'm sure, Magni. I'll see this through, don't ya worry.

Oranna looks alarmed. He's going to do what??

Brannagen blows his nose again.

Magni Bronzebeard says: So be it then. I have to return to my people, brothers. Come back to me in one piece.

Brann Bronzebeard says: Aye, be safe Muradin. I'd join you, but I'm on top of the most amazing discovery the world has yet seen. I can't abandon it now.

Yorg Stormheart says: Go Brann. Bring me back an epic tale when we meet again. Farewell for now, brothers.

Magni Bronzebeard says: …farewell brother.

Magni and Brann turn around and walk away in opposite directions. Muradin walks on to Velog Icebellow, who is now standing in "Yorg's" place. They face each other for a few moments, apparently talking. Muradin then walks over to Fjorlin Frostbrow and despaw– er, flies away from Frosthold on a majestic eagle. I guess.

Ben watches Muradin go.

Ace watches, shocked.

[Ben]: They just gonna … ?

[Oranna]: I — we're jus' gonna…but, I mean, they jus' got them back…

[Brannagen]: Somehow I knew tha' would happen.

[Ben]: I mean, not even a beer together? Or —

[Brannagen]: They're like tha'.

Ben looks after Brann in the other direction.

[Brannagen]: All business, those three.

[Ben]: Damn.

Oranna sighs. "Ye know, this is why we ne'er know where all three o' them are at any time."

[Auralind]: That was beautiful. I am gladdened that they have found one another again.

[Brannagen]: I could just hug somethin!

Brannagen wipes his eyes. Not with the hankie he just blew his nose on twice, thank goodness.

[Ben]: … y'all. We found Muradin Bronzebeard.

[Ben]: We did.

[Oranna]: Aye, for fourteen seconds at least.

[Ace]: If they start drinking in a way appropriate for the occassion, they won't recover for a month.

[Ace]: Best to finish the work, y'see?

Ben grins at Ace.

[Ben]: Yeah, guess so.

[Ace]: But we can celebrate!

[Ace]: Look, I have a cake!

[Oranna]: Is he really goin' after Arthas? Now?

[Ben]: I mean. We all are. Goin' after Arthas.

[Brannagen]: Muradin trained Arthas ta fight, y'know.

[Brannagen]: Wot happened… it must weigh on him like ye canna believe.

Ace produces a whole-ass chocolate cake.

Ben blinks at the cake.

[Ben]: … Damn, Ace!

[Brannagen]: Oooo cake!

Brannagen is immediately distracted from heavy thoughts.

[Ben]: You just… had that?

[Ace]: I had a feelin' we'd need it.

[Oranna]: Well, aye, but alone? Is he comin' with us, or jus' wanderin' off?

Ben helps himself to a piece. Who turns down cake?

Oranna does not look like she's in the mood for cake.

Ben settles in the snow with a cake slice.

[Ben]: I reckon he will join up with the effort, Oranna.

Oranna makes a worried sound. "I hope so."

[Ben]: He ain't gonna make his way into Icecrown alone, not when no one can so far.

[Brannagen]: Also, I think it's been pretty conclusively proven that Muradin Bronzebeard is nigh impossible ta kill.

[Ben]: … seems like yeah.

Ben laughs.

[Auralind]: Shaha lor'ma. For the cake.

[Ace]: He's just heading straight there. I have a feeling this won't be the last time we meet.

[Ben]: Reckon it will be good as hell for Alliance morals to have him back, too.

Oranna nods at Ben.

[Brannagen]: He's probably gatherin' forces. Part of what makes 'im a great warrior is knowin' how ta lead soldiers.

[Oranna]: Ye'd hope so, at least.

[Brannagen]: I trust 'im.

[Brannagen]: He's a good sight smarter about this kinda theng that I am, fer one!

Oranna doesn't look like she trusts any of the Bronzebeard brothers to not just wander off on their own.

Ben polishes off his cake slice and looks longingly at the remaining cake.

[Oranna]: Ye can have my portion, Ben, if ye want.

[Ben]: You sure?

Ben is already reaching for another slice.

[Oranna]: Aye, I'm sure.

[Ben]: Thank you, Miz Oranna.

Ben is a growing boy.

Auralind took two bites of cake before wrapping the rest up to save for later.

[Brannagen]: I canna believe it. The three Bronzebeard Brothers together again… an' I was here ta see it!

Brannagen 's eyes go all dreamy.

[Ben]: Oumamappen.

Ben nods at Bran with a mouthful of cake.

Translated from the cakemouth, that was, ‘You made it happen.’

Brannagen nods solemnly to Ben.

Oranna 's worried line in the middle of her forehead is practically large enough to be a chasm at this point.

[Brannagen]: Now FINALLY I can write me ma. She'll think I'm spinnin' a yarn, but ah well.

Ben polishes off the second slice and sighs happily.

[Ben]: Reckon it will be big news in Ironforge before long. And then she will know you done it for real.

[Brannagen]: Ye think our names'll go in the story?

[Ben]: I dunno. 'Cobalt Company,' it better say, at least.

[Oranna]: Oh, ah. Do…do ye think they e'en know our names?

[Ace]: They will if we start talking it up in taverns.

Brannagen cheers at Ace!

[Ben]: They know we are Cobalt. Maybe Cap'n Jo told King Magni?

[Ben]: Our names I mean.

Cake having been consumed, White Squad gets up to resume their business.

Brannagen can't stop grinning.

Ben stops to peer at the Frostborn now standing where King Stormheart once stood.

Brannagen greets Velog Icebellow with a hearty hello!

Velog Icebellow says: Our Cobalt friends. King Stormheart sends his most sincere thanks for reuniting him with his brothers. It seems he's off to settle a score now — perhaps you'll meet with him again on Arthas's doorstep.

[Ben]: … yessir. Sure hope so, sir.

[Brannagen]: Sorry fer all the chaos.

[Brannagen]: But et's fer the best.

Oranna bites her lip to not say that he better not just be storming over there by his own self.

Velog Icebellow says: We're glad to see our King reunited with his people, and to have forged such new alliances.

Velog Icebellow nods solemnly to Bran.

Oranna nods at Velog Icebellow.

Brannagen looks a little misty-eyed again.

Velog Icebellow says: The mountain dwarves and the Frostborn are joined as brethren ourselves, now. We are grateful.

Brannagen salutes Velog Icebellow with respect.

[Ben]: Well. You are welcome, an' all.

Ben salutes Velog Icebellow with respect.

[Auralind]: We are honored to have taken part.

Velog Icebellow kind of glosses over Ben to nod gravely at Auralind. Who can't appreciate it anyway.

Ben clears his throat.

[Ben]: Anyhow. We will let you get on with — dwarf business. Sir.

[Brannagen]: Aye. Dwarf business.

Oranna nods. Dwarf Business

Brannagen winks slyly at Velog Icebellow.

Velog Icebellow says: Farewell, friends. You are always welcome at Frosthold.

Brannagen waves goodbye to Velog Icebellow. Farewell!

Brannagen cheers!

Brannagen makes a 8D face at Ben.

Ben grins back at Bran.

[Ben]: So. Uh.

[Brannagen]: So!

[Ben]: I guess, talkin' of dwarf business, maybe now we follow up on the thing Mr. Bronzebeard told us about them Earthen?

[Brannagen]: Aye, ser!

[Ben]: Okay. Everyone ready for that or anyone need a break?

Ben looks around.

Brannagen lets you know that he is ready!

[Auralind]: I am ready, Ben.

Oranna nods distractedly at Ben. Wait that was an or. She shakes her head. No that is not clear. "I'm, ah, I'm ready."

[Brannagen]: Me head's still spinnin' a bit, but I'm fit fer travel.

[Brannagen]: All! Three! Bronzebeards!

Auralind chuckles quietly at Bran.

[Auralind]: I hope they live up to your expectations, Prospector.

[Oranna]: I wonder wha's gonna happen with the whole…I mean, Muradin's a king now, so is he still, ye know, in line? Or is he gonna jus'…start another clan, here?

[Brannagen]: I suppose they'll work tha' out. Magni didn't seem fussed by the idea of his brother bein' king of somethin' else. Seemed proud, even.

[Oranna]: Aye. Magni didnae seem ta mind, at least. No worries on competition or the like. Tha's a good sign, right?

[Brannagen]: Now we just gotta find Brann somethin' ta be keng of, heh heh.

Ben laughs.

Oranna sighs. "Is there a…I dunno, clan tha' jus' wanders?"

[Brannagen]: King o' the Library, maybe…

[Oranna]: Isn't tha' jus' a librarian?

Brannagen laughs at Oranna.

[Ben]: Librarian with a crown.

[Brannagen]: All librarians should have crowns!

[Oranna]: He's probably forget ta wear if it wasna attached to his head…

Brannagen nods at Oranna.

[Ben]: Okay. Let's get a move on then.

[Brannagen]: Woo! I'm so giddy I'm like ta fall off me bird.

Oranna looks over slightly panicked at that.

[Ben]: Don't fall off Magni. He is havin' a big day.

[Brannagen]: Oh, Magni, ye missed yer namesake visitin' earlier.

[Brannagen]: Magni Bronzebird here is king o' the gryphons.

Oranna eyes Bran's seat on the gryphon nervously. Her own grip is a death grip on her gryphon's saddle.

The squad flies north away from Frosthold, in the direction Brann told them to find the Earthen.

Ben eyes the massive arched doorway.

[Ben]: This is where he directed us.

Brannagen dismounts.

The doorway leads into a hall in the mountainside. Standing sentry outside it are several dwarves, all of whom appear to have been hewn from solid stone. They are also all shirtless but maybe rocks don’t need shirts. They do all have pants, though. The pants also appear to be stone. Are they pants or are they actually part of the strange dwarves? Mysteries abound!

Ben openly stares at Breck Rockbrow.

Ben eyes the Earthen Stoneguard.

Oranna glances over and staaaaares at Blackmaw.

[Brannagen]: Is tha'…

Brannagen peers at Blackmaw searchingly.

Blackmaw is a jet-black panther who may or may not be carved of actual jet. Or some other jet-black stone. Its eyes are gleaming scarlet gems.

[Oranna]: I dinna know.

[Ben]: Damn.

[Oranna]: I've ne'er seen one like tha'.

[Ace]: It's a kitty!

Brannagen staaaaaares at the cat's jointed tail.

Oranna makes an unsure sound. Is it a kitty? She's not sure.

Thaeru'kal sniffs curiously at Blackmaw.

[Ben]: Is there, uh —

Ben glances at an Earthen Stoneguard. "Brann Bronzebeard sent us, sir?"

Brannagen pulls himself together.

Earthen Stoneguard says: Bouldercrag the Rockshaper is within, at the back.

[Ben]: Okay. Thank you, sir.

Brannagen is vibrating a little again.

[Ben]: … reckon he is the fellow with the two giant hammers?

[Oranna]: Oh, like Arnathorn Firststone…

[Oranna]: Well, if he was blue.

[Oranna]: Is there a shirt shortage or…

[Brannagen]: Wot would they need shirts for?

Brannagen greets Bouldercrag the Rockshaper with a hearty hello!

Ben pauses and nods respectfully to Bouldercrag the Rockshaper.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: The Earthen welcome you, cousins and surface creatures. What brings you to our refuge?

Ben looks around at the others and decides he is probably one of the surface creatures rather than a cousin.

Brannagen somewhat discreetly pulls out his sketchbook. Somewhat.

[Ben]: Mr. Brann Bronzebeard sent us, sir.

Oranna is possibly a cousin, of a different flavor.

[Ben]: We are Cobalt Company.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Cobalt Company? An auspicious name.

Oranna nods. Like the stone. Huh. Is that…does he think that because he's Cobalt colored?

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: So you know Brann Bronzebeard, then? He is our closest ally among those of the flesh. We are as brothers in the struggle against Loken and his followers — the struggle for Ulduar.

Brannagen discreetly sketches a portrait of Mr. the Rockshaper.

[Ben]: Can we help you with… anything? He sent us to offer our help.

Brannagen softly repeats "Ulduar" as though it is a prayer.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: A noble cousin, Brann Bronzebeard. We are grateful.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: It seems so long ago that our hammers hewed stone instead of iron. Our expulsion from Ulduar saw the weakest of us dead and the strongest of our craftsmen reborn as warriors.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Now, as the irons beat us back, even the strongest are failing.

Oranna is not wondering if they need help with getting shirts and…wait, are those even pants? Are those rock pants or are they part of their bodies? Now Oranna doesn't know and isn't sure if she should ask.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: We can do little for our wounded without the aid of Titan-touched earth. We used to mine it from deposits on the sheer cliff face to the northwest, but the constant battle has prevented us from replenishing our stock.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Will you help us by gathering some?

[Brannagen]: No problem!

[Ben]: Collecting… dirt? We can, uh, for sure. Sir.

[Ace]: Got my pick right here.

[Brannagen]: Titan-touched dert.

[Ben]: Yessir. Right.

Oranna looks a little unsettled by the sheer cliff face. But here we are.

They head outside to find this sheer cliff face. It is not hard to find. It happens pretty abruptly at their feet.

[Ben]: Oh, uh. Down there?

[Ben]: That is — sheer, all right.

[Brannagen]: Thes'll be fun!

Ben summons his gryphon again.

[Oranna]: Oh, tha's uh….

Oranna watches the Dolomite Giant. Sure. That's normal.

[Ben]: It's the black, glassy kind stickin' up, you reckon?

[Oranna]: Ugh, when they said sheer cliff face they were not exaggerating.

[Brannagen]: There there.

[Auralind]: That looks about right to me.

Auralind smirks.

Oranna focuses on it. "It does seem a bit…odd."

[Brannagen]: Want me ta get yer share?

Brannagen peers at Oranna searchingly.

[Ben]: Odd how?

[Oranna]: Can ye see it, Auralind? Like before, with the naaru?

[Oranna]: Like it's a little colder or a little…warmer maybe?

Auralind chuckles and shakes her head. "I cannot."

The squad and their gryphons make their way up and down the cliff, looking for spikes of the strange earth to gather.

Oranna is looking a little green around the edges from going up and down the cliff side.

Ben eyes Oranna with cautious sympathy. "We can — go back, probably."

[Ben]: You reckon we got enough dirt?

Oranna nods. She reckons. Or maybe she's just hoping they're reckoning.

They head back to the hall of the Earthen.

Oranna looks relieved to have both feet back on the ground. Where they belong.

Brannagen greets Bouldercrag the Rockshaper with a hearty hello!

[Ben]: Sir? We have brung your dirt. Earth. Titan dirt.

Brannagen admires his dirt samples.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: This will allow us to mend more of our fallen. Thank you, cousins, on behalf of all who defend the refuge.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: With the earth you’ve collected, we can make poultices to heal the wounds of the fallen. The more defenders we can patch up, the longer we will hold out.

Brannagen was happy to help Bouldercrag the Rockshaper.

[Auralind]: Fascinating.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Take these poultices and use them on any fallen defenders you find on the battlefield below. Get as many back into the battle as possible. We cannot afford to lose any more of our brethren.

Brannagen nods at Bouldercrag the Rockshaper.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: As well — we have done our best to blunt the irons’ attacks, but we lose ground inch by inch. My men are hardy but not tireless, and we have no reinforcements. It is only a matter of time for us.

Oranna glances between the dwarves. She's just realizing that they're not only all going shirtless, but they're all men. All brethren.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Would you be willing to stand as reinforcements? If you would lend your aid to the defenders, it would give our people hope, and buy us time to consider a counterattack.

[Ben]: 'Course, sir.

[Ben]: We got some practice with iron dwarfs.

[Oranna]: Oh, aye. An' sieges…

[Brannagen]: Aye.

[Ben]: Let's get out there an' relieve 'em, Cobalt.

Oranna nods a little distractedly. "Hm, oh, aye."

They fly down to the battlefield below and begin offering poultices to those Earthen Defenders who have been wounded and dragged from the field by their comrades.

Earthen Defender says: Loken will never triumph!

Fallen Earthen Defender says: Let me fight by your side.

They head out into the field to fight the iron dwarves and their golems, and to patch up more wounded.

Fallen Earthen Defender says: I was certain I was going to die out here.

Ben eyes the Dolomite Giant warily.

[Ben]: That's on our side?

Fallen Earthen Defender says: Let us fight the irons together!

[Brannagen]: We can do et!!

Fallen Earthen Defender says: I was certain I was going to die out here.

Brannagen comforts Fallen Earthen Defender.

Oranna watches as an iron dwarf just…shoots up into the air.

There is some kind of rocket defense thing happening. Earthen and/or iron dwarf technology unclear.

Fallen Earthen Defender says: Thank you. I thought I was doomed.

Brannagen cheers!

[Ben]: Good work, y'all. See any more wounded ones?

[Brannagen]: Nope.

[Ace]: I think we got ‘em.

[Ben]: Good.

[Ben]: Reckon we bought 'em some time out here, too.

Oranna nods at Ben.

Brannagen points at a Rejuvenated Defender.

[Brannagen]: Good as new!

They return to the refuge.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper bows to the group.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Cousins, you have given our people hope and bolstered their courage. We are in your debt.

[Ben]: Is there anything else we can do?

Brannagen is helping by working more on his sketch of Mr. the Rockshaper.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Mm. Southwest of here, on the western side of the Snowdrift Plains, the iron dwarves have dug a mine into the hillside. There, they use captive mechagnomes — Keeper Mimir’s own servants! — to mine ore.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: My scouts report that the enslaved miners are carting a dark, sickly-looking ore from the mine. It gives them a feeling of foreboding.

Ben exchanges a look with some of the others. Well, not with Aura, probably.

Oranna looks nervously up at Ben. Uh oh. More bad rocks?

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: I don’t know where the iron dwarves captured these mechagnomes, nor what the mechagnomes would do with their freedom, but perhaps we can win their aid.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Go to the Frozen Mine and set these creatures free from their bondage. Ask if they will fight against iron dwarf tyranny alongside us.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: And if you can obtain samples of the ore that they are mining, please bring them to me. I must see for myself what they are doing.

[Brannagen]: Oh, er.

[Ben]: I, uh. If it is the ore I think it is, I do not recommend it much, sir.

Oranna already feels a feeling of foreboding.

Brannagen fidgets.

[Ben]: But I will… see what we can do for you.

They head out across the Snowdrift Plains in search of the mine.

[Oranna]: Is that it, then?

Right outside the mine’s entrance is a cart full of chunks of a dark, oily-looking metal.

[Brannagen]: Welllp.

[Ben]: That is — uh.

[Oranna]: It's doesn't look like…saronite's green, usually, isn't it?

[Brannagen]: Looks a little different from the saronite I've seen, but I'm no expert.

[Ben]: Yeah. We will get a sample on the way out. Don't touch it meantime.

Oranna nods.

[Brannagen]: I'll trust yer judgment, [nickname pending].

[Auralind]: I will leave the collecting to you.

They kill an Iron Dwarf Taskmaster on their way into the mine, and then find themselves standing in a tunnel lined with mechagnomes toiling away.

[Ben]: Sir?

Ben addresses a Captive Mechagnome.

Oranna watches warily.

[Ben]: You can go. We are here to free you.

Captive Mechagnome says: Does not compute. Unit malfunctioning. Directive: shut down.

[Ben]: … oh.

[Ben]: Well. Shit.

[Oranna]: Oh.

[Brannagen]: Tha's a damn shame.

[Oranna]: Ehhh….

[Oranna]: Do we try somethin' else? A…directive?

[Ben]: Someone else want to talk to that one? Maybe they ain't know about humans.

[Oranna]: Ye know, uh, protocol…uh, beta? Or…somethin'?

[Brannagen]: Cease your labor an' be free?

Captive Mechagnome says: New directive: assist in the defeat of the iron dwarves.

Brannagen cheers at Captive Mechagnome!

[Ace]: There we go!

[Auralind]: Oh…excellent.

[Oranna]: Well, tha' worked.

[Ben]: Okay, from now on y'all are talkin' to 'em.

[Brannagen]: I'm sure it wasna yer fault, ser.

[Brannagen]: They may vary from unit ta unit.

Oranna nods.

[Ben]: Maybe.

Ben points at another Captive Mechagnome.

[Brannagen]: Who wants ta try next?

[Ben]: Let 'em know they can go.

They are obliged to fight off some more Iron Dwarf Taskmasters.

Oranna looks at the colors of the runes on the iron dwarves and then back to the dark ore. Hmm.

[Brannagen]: Ace, wanna try talkin' to one?

[Oranna]: I'd…I'm no' sure they'd listen ta me.

[Ace]: Oh, sure.

[Ace]: Listen, there's a new directive. You've been assigned to getting out of here.

Captive Mechagnome says: Does not compute. Unit malfunctioning. Directive: shut down.

[Brannagen]: Rats.

[Ace]: Aw, rats!

[Ben]: … damn.

[Brannagen]: Iron dwarves are THREAT LEVEL GAMMA!

Captive Mechagnome says: Does not compute. Unit malfunctioning. Directive: shut down.

Auralind frowns.

Brannagen sighs at Captive Mechagnome.

[Ben]: Oranna, try that little fellow?

Ben points at a Captive Mechagnome.

Oranna looks nervous, but nods. "Alright."

Brannagen encourages Oranna.

[Oranna]: Cease current objective, redirect to new objective, ah, fight iron dwarves?

Captive Mechagnome says: Does not compute. Unit malfunctioning. Directive: shut down.

[Ben]: Shit.

[Brannagen]: Aw, that was a real good one.

[Ace]: Oh heck.

Oranna pales. "N-no! I…"

[Brannagen]: I think most o' these are jus' stubborn.

[Ben]: That was a real good one.

[Ace]: The revolution will not be offered with a qualifying purchase, brother!

Captive Mechagnome says: New directive: assist in the defeat of the iron dwarves.

Brannagen laughs at Ace.

[Ace]: That's right!

[Ben]: … I ain't even know what that meant, but okay.

[Ace]: There is power in a union, friend!

Captive Mechagnome says: Free again! Keeper Mimir's work awaits.

[Oranna]: Have ye ever wanted ta be the king of a library?

Captive Mechagnome says: New directive: leave mine and return to Inventor's Library.

Auralind lets out a hearty chuckle.

[Ben]: Oh, nice.

[Oranna]: Well, it worked.

Brannagen cheers at Oranna!

[Brannagen]: I knew ye could do it!

[Ace]: You have nothing left to lose but your chains!

Captive Mechagnome says: New directive: assist in the defeat of the iron dwarves.

Ace cheers at Captive Mechagnome!

Brannagen encourages Captive Mechagnome.

Captive Mechagnome says: New directive: assist in the defeat of the iron dwarves.

Captive Mechagnome says: Free again? Keeper Mimir's work awaits.

As they exit the mine, Ben pauses by a mine cart and takes a sample of the ore. He carries the rock gingerly in his plate-gauntleted hand.

[Oranna]: Is it sayin' anythin' ta ye? The rock.

[Ben]: … no.

[Oranna]: Well, there's tha' at least.

[Ben]: Just feels weird.

[Oranna]: Forebodin'?

[Ben]: Like it's too heavy for how it looks?

Oranna nods. "Like a dwarf."

[Brannagen]: Interestin'.

[Ben]: … yeah. Like a dwarf.

They return to the refuge.

[Ben]: Sir. We got you a ore sample.

Ben holds it out.

Bouldercrag reaches out for the ore, but then recoils.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: That ore… I can’t touch it. It seethes with unnatural energy. No creature of stone can handle it. What do they mean to do with this?

[Brannagen]: Oh dear.

[Ben]: I, uh.

[Ben]: Dunno? Can I just… set it down someplace?

Ben is sweating now. He definitely doesn't want to be holding this rock.

Oranna looks around. Uh. Tables…or…that pit that's steaming or…

[Brannagen]: I'd toss it off the cleff.

[Oranna]: Aye, the cliff.

[Oranna]: That's probably a good idea.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: As the cousins say. Throw it away, friend.

[Ben]: … okay.

Ben jogs away to do that. Totally casual. Jog. Not run.

Oranna might summon up the aura of the [Aspect of the Pack]. It's okay Ben.

[Brannagen]: Also, some o' them gnome thengs didna want ta leave.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: The captive mechagnomes?

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper peers at Bran.

[Brannagen]: Some refused ta come.

[Brannagen]: Shut themselves down in fact.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Ah.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper stands in heavy silence for a moment.

[Oranna]: There might have been some sort of…code phrases they recognize. Or didna recognize, in some cases.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: I had hoped that more of the captives would choose to join us, but I do not blame them. Willing allies against the might of Loken are few and far between, and we are thankful you have lent your weapons to our cause.

[Brannagen]: We'll continue ta help however we can.

[Oranna]: I'm no' sure they understand 'free' exactly.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper nods slowly at Oranna. "They served Keeper Mimir long and faithfully before Loken's corruption came to Ulduar. They may not be accustomed to freedom, as you say, cousin."

[Brannagen]: Damn that Loken.

Ben returns. Totally casual. He is wiping his hand on his tabard, just in case. Also casually.

Brannagen soothes Ben. There, there…things will be ok.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: You have done us great service, Company of Cobalt. Perhaps you will return to us to carry on the fight another day?

[Brannagen]: Sure!

Ben nods firmly.

[Ben]: Yessir.

Oranna nods. "If ye…well, if yer lookin' fer someone ta stay fer a bit, I can. I've done it afore, a siege like this."

[Oranna]: I know how ta manage. An' make bandages.

[Brannagen]: I can stay too.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: We would be honored by your assistance, cousins.

Brannagen bows before Bouldercrag the Rockshaper.

[Ben]: I need to report back to our Captain an' all, but I can come back, an' the squad will do what we can for you.

[Auralind]: I will return often to bring supplies to our people, so we are not a drain on your resources.

[Oranna]: But, if someone'll check on Drom, the hermit? Let him know wha' happened ta Creteus? They were sort o' friends.

[Brannagen]: Someone who en't me. I wanna stay here with [nickname pending].

Ben glances at Oranna. "You want me? To find Drom?"

[Oranna]: If ye're up for it, aye. He should be better, but…well, I think he'd want ta know.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: What happened to Keeper Creteus?

[Oranna]: He, ah…I…uh. He's dead. Creteus. Or s-stopped, maybe?

[Brannagen]: Aye, stopped. I dinna think the Keepers can… exactly die?

Oranna nods in a head bobbing kind of way. You know. That thing.

[Brannagen]: But he made a great sacrifice, an' allowed a victory.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: Creteus has fallen? Grim tidings.

[Brannagen]: He fulfilled a great purpose.

The Earthen around Bouldercrag creak and rustle unhappily, bowing their heads.

Oranna bites her lip. "He told us ta go. He seemed verra sure of it."

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper nods heavily. "May he rest with the Earth."

[Brannagen]: He sees the grander design, an' he knows there is still hope.

Bouldercrag the Rockshaper says: There is hope. Yes. You have brought us hope here today. Thank you, Cobalt cousins.

Brannagen bows before Bouldercrag the Rockshaper.

Brannagen was happy to help Bouldercrag the Rockshaper.

[Ben]: Okay. I am gonna get back to file reports, and I will get out to check on Drom soon as I can.

[Brannagen]: Aye, ser.

Oranna nods. "I'll, ah…aye. I'll go see how bandages are bein' made."

[Auralind]: I will return soon with fresh supplies.

Ben nods respectfully to Auralind.

[Ace]: I'll go have a look at your camp supplies.

Oranna waves goodbye to everyone. Farewell!

Brannagen waves goodbye to everyone. Farewell!