Nestled into her chair, Rian sat at the desk in the Captain’s quarters of the Silver Grace. Grey-green hues looking over the letter delivered just before their departure from the cove that held Wintermeda Harbor. Straightening her posture, the Countess leaned forward, resting her elbows on the deep mahogany desktop, both hands curled around her coffee cup as she breathed out to help it cool. Only after she was able to manage a sip did she side to put the drink down to reach for one of the ledgers. It’d not be an easy call to answer as much as she’d like it to be. But it would be one she’d see answered none the less.
“Mm.. Thaylynn?” her gaze lifted upward towards where he’d been standing only to realize he’d taken leave to the upper decks to sea the frigate out to sea. An unease set about her with the burdens that came with war. With another sip of her coffee she reminded herself to breath. A proper response would have to wait for now.
She’d quickly pen out before they were too far from shore;
Marshal Bennas;
The current effort to rid the Horde from our homelands is long over due. House Kestavin and House Valteric stand ready to heed the call of the Alliance as well as offer what support we are capable of providing. We are no strangers to such hardships and thanks to the Light and my Husbands diligence, we have a stable supply for relief as well as means to offer work to those who wish to share in those efforts. While I am presently off to Boralus on some business, I’d be happy to discuss specifics if need be, but wished to respond to relay our support.
Light Bless,
Rian J. Kestavin
Sword of Wrynn
Countess of Ravenshollow
Regent of Willow Grove
Once the ink had dried, the parchment was folded, sealed and released with a raven back to shore, Rian weaved through the cabins, careful not to let herself remain in anyone’s way for longer than necessary. The movement seemed to help the weight of unease. More so were the faces that had joined or been called for escorts to the foreign city.
The coastal wind pulled and hipped at her hair as she reached the aft of the ship. Her gaze resting on the land behind slowly getting smaller and further away. Larger hands moved around her form, pulling her closer to his chest as he often did when he found her lost in thought. Rian leaned back into the hold, turning her head enough to rest her cheek to his chest. “There are more pushing North. As you said.” her green hues lifting to meet his own. “I’ve let them know they’ve our support of course.”
It was a deep rumbled hum adorning Thaylynn’s nod. “Good.” Catching the caution in her gaze he gave her a small smile, “Short trip then, little wolf?” Her own response came with a nod and his words repeated, though toned with a pang of regret, “Short trip.”
Lorraine jolted silghtly, looked up as her comm gave a gentle buzz, "...Lord Holt has found something," she says, speaking suddenly. Her eyes are torn away from the wall to Venreena.
Alexandria was fastest, “Which Lord Holt? There's like...a billion o' them.”
Venreena looked downward at her as Lorraine had jerked her chin upward at the woman, "Her brother-in-law."
Alexina leaned forward as she rested her arms on it, "Jacob Holt, Cedrick's brother." she said, clarifying.
Motlos tilted his head towards Lorraine, his eyebrows arching in unspoken questions.
“Wot is it then?” Alexandria asked.
Lorraine croaked out, "He says he overheard three Ashvane men speaking about a rather unruly man with black hair who'd arrived at Tol Dogar. A nobleman."
“Tha' could be literally anyone. Tha' ain't propah confirmation,” replied the other Gilnean, unconvinced.
Alexina tilted her head slightly though nods in agreement with the Doc. "Aye. That could be any nobleman around these parts.."
Rian echoed the same thought, “That could be anyone, I could list at least five unruly nobleman off the top of my head, Alex of course being one when circumstance permits.”
Motlos joined the chorus, "A name would add some weight to the hearsay. While it could very well be Alexander, it really could be anyone."
"They called him 'a mainlander',” Lorraine supplied, unhelpfully.
“Again.. so many converging on Boralus?” Rian said at once.
Lorraine only shrugged one thin shoulder, “That's all he has for the time being."
Venreena pinched the bridge of her nose. "Still. We need to know for certain that it's Alex."
Motlos nodded his agreement.
“Okay, so back t' th' original plannin'? Tha' ain't enough for me t' charge in guns blazin',” Alexandria noted.
“It's a string of hope. But I do agree further infomation is necessary,” agreed Rian.
"Quite right. Would be a shame if we hatched a daring escape only to realize we have the wrong man,” Motlos added.
Audrik finalized the arguement, “If the place truly is an unlawful prison, rescuing the wrong person wouldn't be a total loss.”
Lorraine fell silent and returned her gaze forward to the spot on the wall. Clemence sneered at her. Her leg started up again.
“I will go with Doc inside if you want to go down that road,” Alexina announced, all eyes shifted to her in confusion.
It was Alexandria who voiced what they all thought, “I don't feel it propah t' take a pregnant woman int' max security dirty prison.”
Alexina looked to the Doc, “You need someone there with you though…” and her claim was refuted by the other woman, “Worst case scenario I can handle m'self,” Alexandria told her.
Motlos, however, looked at Audrik.
"Correct,” He said, “But that still leaves us with no Alexander Kestavin. While I agree it wouldn't be all bad, we would still be without our objective.”
Alexina still looked over at Alexandria for a moment and nodded once. "Still, at lest take Mot or someone."
“Besides, if I one man scout this....we can let othahs focus on findin' th' boat,” Alexandria said, and Alexina nodded at her.
Clemence whispered across the room, “You realize… this is all your fault, right? And here you are… just sitting there. About as useful as an asshole right here,” she said, raising a hand across her own body to point at her elbow.
Lorraine 's face contorted with rage and she looked downward at her palms. No one seemed to notice.
Venreena changed the subject, “Now we have something else we need to address,” she said. Lorraine's eyes ticked upwards at Venreena briefly.
“If there's a boat to be found…” Rian began, but Venreena had already continued, “The Sudden Storm was spotted heading to Pandaria.”
“So....we send some folks t' Pandaria. Have a look around,” Alexandria supplied, shrugging.
"I can get a mage," came Lorraine’s voice, almost unintelligible.
Venreena didn’t seem to hear her, “I have a ship The Sea Phoenix that will be leaving Stormwind Tuesday morning. If we can have a few of our numbers take a portal back to the mainland and board the Phoenix, we can try and locate the Storm.”
Audrik quipped, “Do we know where to find these survivors from the rowboat? They should have all the information we need.”
Lorraine nodded at Venreena, "I can arrange it," she said, still as quiet.
“It's been how many days since we found 'em? Th' boat could've moved by now,” Alexandria argued.
“What can I do to help?” Came Alexina’s eager reply.
Venreena shook her head, “It doesn't matter where they are right now, though I assume they are safe. The last time The Sudden Storm was spotted, it was headed to Pandaria. That's all we have to go on.”
'Was there a specific destination on Pandaria that the Sudden Storm was headed? Or will we have to scour the entire continent?” Motlos asked, his brows furrowing.
“Thaylynn has intention of procuring a ship or two whilst we're here. Surely someone in the harbor or shipyards will have heard something. I could ask around,” Rian offered to Venreena, whom in turn nodded at Rian.
“If you don't mind my asking, how well manned and armed was the missing ship?” Audrik asked.
Lorraine's eyes shifted ahead again. "What about Sault?" She asked, seemingly no one.
Venreena spoke to Rian, “That would be appreciated. I still think it would be wise that we have people ready to sail first thing Tuesday,” before her eyes shifted to Audrik, “That's the thing... It's a Man O' War.”
Lorraine glanced at Venreena, "I said I'd get them to Stormwind," she bleated feebily.
Then sending any other ship, no matter how well armed, is still inviting a similar result,” Audrik interjected at once.
“As fer tha' guy...if we find th' ship, probably gonna find th' arse tha' took it,” Alexandria reasoned, probably correctly.
Venreena nodded to Lorraine. She had heard her before, just forgot to respond. Pregnancy brain, yo.
Rian in turn, nodded with Venreena's words. "Armed with Kestavin guns.. so well as any if not more,” she leaned to the back of her chair. "Sea ventures are not my expertise I'd not pretend to know the best way to retrieve such."
Lorraine gave a little nod in return and went back to staring. Same spot.
“We can sail The Sea Phoenix without the Holt and Thorne colors to reduce the risk of it being taken,” Venreena said, decisively.
But, Audrik eyed Venreena. "You assume, my lady, that whoever took the other ship discriminates."
Motlos seemed to agree, nodding at Audrik, “Pirates will care little about what flag is being flown. We will be targeted just the same, albeit without being identified as the Holt and Thorne company."
Venreena sighed and shook her head. "And you assume that I don't think that either." She didn't want to reveal to everyone yet that the company was probably under attack. Again. "It simply -reduces- the risk, not eliminates it."
“If they think they can get money howevah they might no' sink ya right off th' bat!” Alexandria supplied.
Lorraine's left eye twitched. Clemence was laughing now.
“It would cause less suspicion of whoever is commanding The Sudden Storm to see a unmarked vessel than to see one flying the same colors of the company they commandeered The Storm from,” Venreena pointed out.
Alexandria continued, “It would also make sense fer th' company t' send folks out lookin' for th' ship.”
“For the sake of your missing man, I would suggest holding out hope that your company was indeed the target,” Audrik offered, “Simple piracy isn't likely to leave prisoners, but a targeted attack could produce a ransom demand.”
Venreena 's jaw clenched as she stared at Audrik. "Thank you for your advice, Mister Caspian," she replied on quiet breath.
Audrik only bowed his head in a solemn nod.
Rian had watched Lorraine for the moment as the others spoke of the lost ship. She'd nod again with Audrik's words. "If he's even with the ship and not in Tol Dagor. Either which way I'd see my brother in law returned. We've only just learned of the ties and his son does not deserve to grow with neither of his parents."
At this, Clemence burst into laughter at her, “You probably orphaned his child and you don’t even love him… oh, this is rich. This is a new low. Venreena’s going to kill you!” She yammered on at Lorraine from across the room.
Lorraine's nostrils flared briefly and her hands clenched on the table top.
Venreena lips pursed with agitation. "If we have Alexandria infiltrate Tol Dagor to identify if Alex is there and we send a small crew aboard The Sea Phoenix to locate The Sudden Storm. We are covering our bases here."
Alexandria nodded. Suddenly she felt like she was in danger. But this was fine.
Motlos was fully prepared for more people to get injured, captured, dead, or all of the above. He made a mental note to pack his equipment well. He was sure he was going to need it.
“Are we all in agreement then?” Venreena asked them all.
“Aye,” Alexina was first to say.
Lorraine 's eyes twitched to Venreena again.
"Get visual confirmation of Alexander, send a team in an attempt to track down our missing boat, and be prepared to find this Sault character aboard that boat. Don't die by the Man O' War or get recaptured in prison. Got it,” Motlos said, nodding.
“Lady Kestavin has my support. If she is in agreement, than I am as well,” Audrik agreed.
“An' fer me no hero moments tryin' t' get him out. Just...do m' job and get out,” Alexandria nods.
"Who do you want me to take back to Stormwind?" Lorraine cleared her throat.
Rian looked to Venreena, "I'm not disagreeing. Not in the least." her lips pursed. "If infiltration is your primary means and intentions. Then what choice do I have for the moment?" She'd look to Alexandria, "Would you have assistance or no?"
Alexandra shook her head, “If 'm just havin' a look around I should go alone. 'm a one man operation typically. Given th' options one would be bettah. Leaves more men able t' work elsewhere in recoverin' th' ship.”
Audrik seemed to agree with her, “Anyone poking around covertly should be alone and deniable.”
“Not to mention Rian, you going could compromise the mission. If Alex sees you or you see him…” Venreena trailed off, shrugging as she looked at the Countess.
“I think 'm...th' least notable person in this room...actually,” Alexandria wondered aloud.
Venreena still spoke to Rian, “In the meantime, have Thaylynn ask around the docks if they've seen a Man O' War,” she said.
(Collaborative RP with @rian-kestavin @venreenaholt @audrik-caspian@alexandria-morrowgrove & @alexinathorne )
The march towards Lordaeron had been filled with tense anticipation. Ravenshollow forces followed The Lady and Lord Kestavin, looking to them for guidance, hope, and in their heart of hearts, some semblance of victory. Lochlan rode among them, Jacob, the swordsman’s brown gelding and loyal companion through the years, champed nervously at his bit, reacting to the nerves that swirled around them both, prancing in the line up as battle lines were set up and Lordaeron loomed ahead of them. Lochlan would be lying if he said he hadn’t felt the same, shifting in his saddle and checking his gear again and again, making sure he was ready, already smelling the tang of steel and blood, smoke and death, heavy within the damp air.
It was pure luck that his old armor, emblazoned red, gold and grey, matched well with the colors of the house, allowing him to avoid the need of a tabard or other adornment to mark which house he fought for. Tabards got in the way, able to be grabbed or caught. Strapping the plate and leather on felt like slipping into a comfortable pair of old shoes, the fit still firm, not too tight, nor too loose, allowing the freedom he needed to wield both of the blades that rested comfortably upon his hips.
The sounds of battle soon filled the air, clogging the throat of their forces with fear and adrenaline. All eyes turned towards the Lord and his Lady, weapons hissing from sheaths and pikes lowered. Archers readied their arrows and tested bow strings. Lochlan was certain you could cut the tension with a knife as each soldier, each mercenary and vassal, balanced themselves on a knife’s edge, waiting, ever waiting until the horn sounded... and the sound of hooves split the air with their thunder.
Voices roared in various battle songs, Lochlans own rising with them, spurring Jacob forward to remain shoulder to shoulder with the rest of his line until the clash of metal split their ranks.
Orcs, tauren, forsaken and trolls danced through their formations, turning the world to chaos with each swing of a brutal axe or arc of blinding lightning.
Lochlan, both swords drawn and guiding Jacob with his knees, plunged into the fray, steel parrying, twisting to plunge into a green skinned breast, another flashing in the firelight, parting the head of a forsaken from it’s decaying body. Blood swiftly washed over Jacob’s flanks, down along Lochlans own armor, his own and the enemies.
Forward, ever forward he pressed, hacking, bellowing in building fury until he was suddenly lurched forward, somersaulting over Jacob’s head as the horse gave a sharp squeal, legs swept out from beneath him, shattered by an orcish warhammer.
Lochlan struck the ground, bouncing in a hard skid that left him sprawled, breath whooping from his lungs in a burning rush. He barely twisted to the side in time to avoid an armored form, watching as the body crashed down beside him. Lochlan scrambled to his feet, swords still in hand as desperate eyes sought Jacob, stepping over his dead comrade in his haste and narrowly ducking back to avoid the sweep of a blade. The swordsman snarled, slapping the next attack aside with the flat of his own sword and deftly carved a smile within the throat of the troll that had swung.
He could see Jacob just ahead through the chaos, struggling to get his legs under him, forces both Alliance and Horde crashing around the horses fallen form. Lochlan frantically began to shove, trying to cut his way through, only watch in horror as his oldest companion’s pained cries ended beneath the same hammer that brought him to the ground.
The swordsman came to an abrupt halt among the fury of the forces around him, staring where Jacob lay slowly vanishing beneath the press of bodies and weaponry.
An overwhelming fury bubbled up from the depths of his chest, building, rising into an inferno that erupted in the form of a ferocious howl and turned the world red. The wolf in the back of his mind sprang free with furious glee, stealing the man that had trapped it for so long and twisting his frame, contorting limbs and muscles, drawing the beast to life in the form of black fur and pearled canines.
With a primal vengeance the worgen barrelled into the fray, stealing time and memory and turning both to ash and blood. Lochlan howled his rage with each kill, reveled in the feel of flesh between his claws, hot blood upon his tongue. He didn’t stop, couldn’t stop, charging in where others backed away, black fur slick with gore and parted from blade and weapon that passed his guard. It seemed like there wasn’t enough to slake his thirst, denied even more by the frantic call to retreat, blight rising acrid and green through the line.
It burned his nostrils, seared his eyes and choked his breath, forcing him to fall back with the others and watch those less fortunate struggle to join them. Race or faction didn’t matter to the blight as it swept death over Horde forces and Alliance alike, leaving behind it a field of corpses, their features twisted, locked in pain and defeat.
Lochlan limped back with what remained of Ravenshollow’s forces, reforming behind the lines to count their numbers and handle what wounded had been spared the fog of blight that hung like a deadly promise around the fallen city. Medical teams filed through the soldiers, clinical and stonefaced, triaging as best they could. The swordsman found himself sent to a tent to be tended with others, forced to endure removing his armor and the steel fingers of practiced medical work poking and prodding ribs and open wounds. Any other time he would have complained about having his fur shaved, but sitting among the others, feeling tired and sore, his heart heavy over the loss of Jacob and thinking of Isolde and their unborn child, he couldn’t care less.
He was alive. So what if it left him looking like he lost a fight with a weed whacker.
In relation to: Goodnight Rian, Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Wake Up Rian
Blessedly, outside the town of Strahnbrad, Theron Valteric had managed to help Valdim Heyworth to his feet. He'd helped get him moving again, made easier as the much larger beast shifted into his human form. Together, they rested only long enough to share information, and give Valdim's potion time to take effect.
Rian had fainted. She was in a coma. What he'd feared was all coming to pass, now, and he was moving too slowly to prevent it. Together, as family, the two gathered their things and journeyed to Karazhan.
The tower was just as impressive, just as intimidating as his first visit here, what felt like a lifetime ago. The rusted iron portcullis lifted with surprising ease, signifying that the rust had already been broken once recently - very recently. The whole structure reeked of dark magics, still.
Cautiously, the two magic-users entered, Valdim cursing under his breath, quietly, "Ligh'... I forgot what a place this is..." He shakes his head, “It still gives me chills.” Theron lofted his gaze around, "Now, yeah.. but it'd been a sight before the cobwebs." Came his muffled tone from behind his mask.
Valdim nods, looking over the dust and cobwebs. "It was, Theron. It was..." His wolf-eyes looked over the expanse before him. "Some gall, using Karazhan..." Theron glanced back towards the Worgen “Fitting really, with the Teague's being friends of the Guardian.”
“...Wonderful. I may 'ave known'im. 'Ow did Rian look, Theron?”
Theron canted his head this way and that. "Pale... I'd assumed it was from the trouble she had with delivery. Maybe I was wrong." He hadn't seen the memories from Pyrewood, hadn't realized the same conclusions that Valdim had. “I doubt it. Samuel Teague is close. An' he 'as your mother.”
Theron quickly spoke up, as they wandered through the seemingly endless halls of Karazhan. “When she fell..”
Valdim blinked, only half hearing his words, “Yes, Theron?”
Theron shook his head, "Rian, She's the strong one. For her to not respond.." He huffed a sigh and picked up his pace. Together they moved faster, Theron's boots creating a steady cadence upon the stone floor, Valdim's claws scratching upon it. “We'll stop 'im… Ligh'...I forgot 'ow big this place was.
Theron smirked, likely playing smart to distract himself from the reality of what they faced, “Ah, you've been places bigger than this.” They turned a corner, almost running now. A pile of skeletons and corpses long picked over by scavengers littered the base of the rickety stairwell.
Valdim frowned, “Not many,” he eyed the bones tightening his grip on his staff. He snarled, his voice like gravel. "I jus… ' I hope we're not too late ---”
“You've heard about the Ball? The massacre of the nobles? Think since the Teagues were here and lost, their blood in the halls would offer more to him?”
Valdim's eyes widened at the thought. It seemed like more than leylines were at play here. Samuel Teague had chosen this spot carefully. “Per'aps..." The Library grew ever nearer, even old memories of this tower had led him to believe as much. The pair of adventurers hurried, spurred by their desires to resolve this, finally.
Theron's eyes looked over the faded and cracked paintings along the wall. “Shouldn't be too much farther.” The Worgen paused, freezing for a moment upon entering the once-forgotten library. His fierce eyes look around, noting ancient tomes along musty bookshelves, wary, feeling a strange magic in this place.
Theron took in the library and its many tiers, various levels of elevation, seemingly endless in scope. "I... it's all a puzzle.." He muttered with frustration. Feeling the energy of the space, Theron motioned his hands over his collected mana-gems and loosed his own staff in preparation for anything to come.
A distant echo of a voice cried out, Valdim recognized from the memories, muddled by distance and the faint crying of a woman, “Where was your Light then…!? What good have you done, but fail and betray your family and vows? You will be released from your sin and born anew.”
Valdim snarled, feeling a rage fill him, the curse of Worgen. He holds his staff upward, blinking closer to the sound, trying to stay hidden behind rows of books. Simultaneously, Theron whispered a power word, fading to nothing more than a pale glimmer, gripping his own staff as he moved swiftly at Valdim's side through the bookcases, until they reached the stairs. It was as they reached the edge of the large cluttered study, they found their hunt had finally paid off.
Two large lumbering ghouls worked steadily, appearing nearly whole. One remained near a fireplace, as the other tinkering with supplies at the table. Between the two stood Samuel. Finally. His flesh only slightly rotted, appearing nearly fully restored. A foul profane chant beckoned from his lips, echoing now throughout the study. Laid before him was a woman, paled and grey, showing signs similar to the corpses found in Strahnbrad. Her wrists and ankles terribly bound as her head lazily lulled in protest to the Forsaken Lord's work.
Valdim cursed under his breath, furious at the man before him. His eyes narrowed, knowing who the woman was upon the table, immediately. Although they were so far separated, the sound of her pain filled him with rage. The Arcanist whispered towards Theron, "Get close. Stop th' ritual. I'll be a distraction." He suddenly swung from behind the shelf, an arcane blast launching towards Samuel Teague, hoping to make an impact.
"Samuel. This 'as gone on long enough."
Theron pressed forward not needing to be told twice. Reflex taking over, the younger mage suddenly pulled from where he stood to hide behind a closer bookshelf, as Valdim moved for his distraction.
Lord Samuel Teague glimpsed up from his chanting. A wry smirk pulling at his lips as the arcane blast collided and hissed against the barrier unseen. The forsaken offering a snide dip of his head continuing with the ritual.
The Worgen growled at that. He spinning his staff in the air again, summoning up his arcane reserves. "Perhaps y'didn' 'ear me, Sammy. I said this ends 'ere!" Another eruption of force, cracking loud against the Forsaken's barrier, carrying more force, and power than Lord Teague had accounted for. It all came down like shattering of glass. An angered sneer curled at the edge of his nose as he gave an upward nod.
Lady Elizabeth Valeric 's lips pulled into a tired smile. Her hidden messages had worked, her help had arrived. "You know.." Were the words that came from quivered lips. Who she was speaking to was uncertain.
Samuel Teague was close to finishing his spell work and refused to let it fail. The ghoul by the fire turned towards Valdim, pulling two hot pokers from the fireplace. Valdim blinked to the side, a shimmer of light here he once was. He frowned, muttering words of Arcane might, trying to counterspell the terrible Forsaken. Theron, seizing the moment, launched his own bolts of power, but neither seemed to affect the monster before them.
The woman on the table, Elizabeth, gasped and arched with a small cry, the shift in intensity of the spell work causing great pain. Her beautiful auburn locks began slipping to grey.
There wasn't enough time!
The Worgen considered another plan, embracing the beast inside him, instead. He growled, suddenly launching himself at Samuel, wicked claws outstretched. Valdim took the most direct path, charging the Necromancer, the Ghoul plunging two hot fire pokers into his side, as he surged past.
Samuel held fast against the assault, catching the beasts wrists. His chanting halted but the power of the spell held, waiting for the final words. "Mutt..." The man sneered and laughed, "Should have stayed away like a good dog!"
Theron rushed to the table where his mother lay as Valdim went for Samuel. The younger mage reaching for a stone to summon forth a barrier of his own. His gaze turned to Val with a nod as he prayed his own barrier would hold better than the forsaken Lord's had.
Valdim now felt the pain of the hot poker in his side, having burned terribly, piercing the thick flesh. That wound and the one from Strahnbrad taxed him. There was --- another method to silence him, end the ritual, and times were desperate. Baring his great teeth, the Worgen went for Samuel's neck, hoping to rip out the undead flesh. But teeth snapped just out of reach.
Samuel sneered at the Worgen, powerfully, beginning to laugh darkly as he was held, a rolling chuckle filled with darkness. Yet, the arrogance soon fell from his face as he felt his spell work falter -- interrupted somehow.
"What did you do?!"
(This happens simultaneously with the conclusion of this. https://rian-kestavin.tumblr.com/post/173202075261/good-night-rian-part-3 )
Light showered the study brilliantly and breaking away the shadow's hold upon this place. The weight of the dark magic shifting to the light. Theron flinched in the flash, raising an arm to cover his gaze as he held to the barrier around him and his mother's form.
Valdim had felt a weakness, a fatigue coming over him. He wounds were too much - but suddenly that light pouring through the room began to heal him, returning lost strength. Like a creature gone mad, Valdim started grinning, murmuring arcane words. His once-tired body began to glow with shimmering purples and blues, and arcane eruption exploding from his form.
Samuel now staggered in the Worgen's arms, the arcane burns beginning to tear at freshly restored flesh. The combination of blows brought the Forsaken lord to his knees. A grin pulled at his lips, torn away, "You're too late, you know.." He gasped out. "I die and you gain nothing, Dog." The ghouls stumbled back, hot pokers ringing against the stone as the undead creatures collapsed from the blast.
Valdim snarled, pulling back his lips, revealing his terrifying maw. He spoke quietly, the words somehow carrying weight in the room. "I gain satisfaction." Wicked claws moved to grasp upon Samuel's neck, tearing into the flesh, feeling the soft meat split between his fingers.
Theron watched, the Lord's laughter soon fall silent, his body jolting to get free of the tearing claws. He called out to Valdim, "The fire, Val! Finish this for good!" The younger mage gripped his staff working to hold back his own anger and hatred for the creature.
Valdim heard the words calling out from behind him, Theron, a voice of reason through the cloud of rage that he once so carefully controlled. The beast turned, throwing Samuel Teague's unliving corpse into the flames of the fireplace. The Arcanist, Valdim shrunk, his human form looking towards the heat with an insistence.
"Burn, Samuel Teague. You're long overdue." Valdim glances back at Theron, "Elizabeth?!"
The younger mage held his gaze to the burning and writhing Forsaken Lord. A blast of his final darkness billowed out in the heavy plumes. Souls he'd taken wailing to their freedom. Valdim turned back looking at the frail looking woman. Her life essence had been stolen - running on fumes now. There was a peacefulness that washed over her as she felt the spell-work cease. Stepping to her side, Theron's gaze looked her over with a pained expression.
"You can fix it, Val? Right?"
Valdim looks over the poor woman, noticing the peace on her features, a small frown on his lips. "I-I don' know. Maybe a priest. Per'aps..." He swiftly left her side, in a panic, moving back towards the book Samuel had been chanting from, frantically turning pages looking for some way to reverse the process.
Elizabeth Valteric moved her hand to hold Theron's as she met his gaze. "He kept his promise.." A slow smile found her lips. "Valdim?" She tried to sit up but found she hadn't the strength. "Theron give... give us a minute?" Came her tired voice.
Valdim flipped through pages with a continued panic, the fear swelling, unable to find anything, his heart racing in his chest, trying to find some way to undo what had been done. As she called out, his shoulders trembled, "No! Elizabeth. We can fix this---"
Theron blinked his glossy gaze, he freed his mask before leaning down and placing a kiss to the woman's brow.
"Val.. She wants to speak with you." he gave a gentle squeeze to her hand, "Hold on, Mum, yeah?"
He let his hands freeze, realizing the terrible weight of reality. The wizard turned slowly, walking over towards Elizabeth, shaking, now. Theron stepped back letting the two have their space. Valdim begins to speak, his words catching, meeting her eyes with tears. "I'm sorry..."
Elizabeth Valteric shook her head and reached a hand for his own. "Don't you dare." Her own eyes watered, "You saved them when I couldn't. I'm the one who should be sorry." Her green hues fell from his own as her regret pulled at her seeing this impossible man who hadn't a bit since the last she'd seen him so long ago.
Valdim places a hand against her cheek... So much to say. So much time missed. Except...
He reaches into a bag, retrieving a small glowing orb, placing it in her trembling hands, wrapping his own around her gaunt fingers. "I missed you." Vladim's eyes met her own, even at this moment, choosing the selfless option.
"These orbs store memories. You have..." He paused feeling emotion building, "You have a granddaughter named Serenity. Share a memory with her. She deserves to know who you are." He swallows, teardrops falling from his eyes.
Elizabeth Valteric blinked away her own tears, she was well familiar with how the orb worked. She gave a small nod. "You're not getting.. getting out of this." She spoke stubbornly, causing the hint of a smile to cross Valdim's face before she offered the last memory.
Playing out in the orb, now, the image of Valdim Heyworth playing with two young twins near the fireplace in their home in Willow Grove. A younger Elizabeth had been in her office and came looking for a distraction - It wasn't long before she was on the floor playing too.
Laughter and happiness.
She'd known many wonderful times but these days with simple enjoyment were her favorite.
Valdim leans over and presses a kiss against her lips, briefly, knowing that these were truly their last moments. After all this time. "Goodnight, Elizabeth. You can rest now. Theron and Rian are safe. I loved you Elizabeth, I always did." He stepped away, slowly, knowing Theron deserved his moment.
Elizabeth Valteric 's hand trembled slowly as she dared return the kiss. "I love you, too." Offering her last smile to him before he stepped free and allowed Theron to take his place. Looking to Theron, "You watch over him." She tried to offer as her son took her hand. "Watch over our family. I.." She swallowed once, "I love you... all..." Her hand fell still and the life left her gaze. Elizabeth was truly free of her torment.
Theron gripped his mothers hand tight. He was about to respond as she drifted away. His eyes dripping quiet crystalline drops as Theron moved to his knees. He hadn't any words as he quietly sobbed, Valdim pulling him into a deep, silent, hug.
((That’s a wrap! Thanks so much to @rian-kestavin! Tagging @theron-valteric for completeness, and @householt because of Rian’s involvement. Thanks for reading so much! ))
Rian hesitated with the envelope in hand. Turning it over between fingers as she gave the decision one more thought. The weight heavy on her chest but it didn't change the circumstance, one she felt little faith would improve. Rosenfield had been assaulted and lost, war had begun, the warnings had all been there. With the initial strikes beginning, war seemed the better effort than one of lies and deceit. Setting the note on the main desk in the Holt Embassy, with the Holt tabard and communicator.
To the Matriarch & Other Privy Council of House Holt:
I want to thank you for offering House Valteric aid. For allowing me a place to be useful and to learn this past year. The time with your family has been one I will forever value and appreciate. It is, however, with a level of regret, that I find need to submit my resignation as Marshal of the Lionsguard.
As I’m sure you’ve seen by now, war stirs at the precipice, the warnings no longer idle. I myself encountered the Forsaken in Stranglethorn. My brother’s holds in the north have also tasted the beginning pains. And now the assault in Ashenvale. With all that stirs taken into consideration as well as previous efforts to bring the Lionsguard to a cohesive force in the name of Holt, there is little more I can do to see to it’s success.
Secondly, the issue of lies and secrecy. I am well aware that’s how most work their politics, but I personally strive to hold myself to an open communication. To have a Captain lie and not only admit to his secrecy but that he would do it again, leaves no room for trust. I could replace him, but he would still do as he likes with disregard to those charged with the safety of the house. Or I can step aside and leave you all to your preferred conspiracy.
I leave open the offer of aid between our houses. I still hold Holts in a warm regard. Should war or trouble stir on your doorstep, House Valteric and House Kestavin are but a summons away and happy to help if we’ve the means to do so.
Light Bless,
OOC: All the love for House Holt Peeps. It’s been an amazing year! Rian’s story has simply grown and taking her a different direction. It’s gotten more an more difficult to justify an IC reason for her to stick around. And so with the building tensions and recent events she will be moving on to new goals.
Rian dipped her head. "I'd like to be apprised of the whens and wheres so to keep ready for updates." She'd glimpse towards Venreena. "I'd be able to hold my composure I'd like to think. As would he given the nature of his other workings. Do understand I mean no ill will or judgement in plans. I just want my family back. I could care less about the ships." She let off a sigh. "But We will ask around for word. And see what we might recover."
“I promise to keep you informed Rian, you have my word. We -will- get him back,” Venreena vowed to Rian.
“I guess I need t' go get hired by sketchy people now,” Alexandria said, standing. Audrik stood as Alexandria did.
Venreena looked across to her, “Be careful,” she said.
"Try not to be tempted by their rates of pay,” Motlos added.
“I'll make it even easier. Can't recognize me if 'm usin' two different forms,” Alexandria said, beginning to shift into her Worgen form.
Rian dipped her head to Alexandria, "Light guide you."
Lorraine feebly suggested, "Dye your hair."
But the other Gilnean shook her head, “I don't need t' dye my hair sweetheart,” she’d said.
Lorraine furrowed her brow, "You work for Holt and Thorne. You could be recognized."
“I haven't used this form with this company. Evah,” she reasoned with the ginger. “Yer far more recognizable then I am. Far. More.”
Lorraine waved her hand at Alexandria. Whatever.
“Now, who wants to volunteer to go with Lorraine on The Sea Phoenix?” Venreena asked, glancing about.
“I have to do something to help. I hate feeling useless....And I have masks you know...Hoods,” Alexina offered, trailing away.
Audrik shook his head, “Sometimes nothing is the best thing to be done.”
Alexandria frowned, “Masks can't hide pregnancy, can't hide yer voice, yer overall look. I go' this bit,” she was already headed for the door, “I just need t' change. I'll give ya lot a status update when I can.”
"Best of luck to you,” Motlos offered, nodding at Alexandria.
Alexandria bowed down graciously and then disappeared into the night.
“Last time I saw a pregnant woman venture into such things despite warnings she came back bloody. You've more than yourself to think of,” Rian said, watching Alexina.
Venreena gaze cut to her sister, “Alexina, you can go with Lorraine.”
Alexina closed her eyes for a moment, then she glanced over at her sister for a moment with a bit of shock. Then she looked to Rian, "If there is a fight. I won't take part in it. Lorrie would get me out of there without even thinking about it."
Lorraine 's leg started to bounce again.
"I assume a mage will accompany us then?" Motlos asked, all of the eyes in the room now fixing on him.
“If Lori can get us there, I'm sure she could get us out,” Alexina reasoned with them.
Rian seemed skeptical, “Just do be caerful. I'm glad to hear your good tidings and can't help a measure of worry,” she said.
"That is not always the case I am afraid. Much like climbing, it can be easy to go up, not so easy to go back down,” Motlos had supplied.
Venreena narrowed her eyes at her sister, wondering if she had heard anything of the conversation. Helpfully, Lorraine interjected, "I'm not the mage. I'm paying one to take us to Stormwind."
Rian pressed up from her seat carefully. With the mention of mages her face fell to look to the floor briefly. "Thank you both. If there's more we can do or offer in finding the resolve to this mess, we'd happily offer what support we're able. Beyond listening about."
To Rian, Venreena spoke, “I will let you know. I fear that this is just the beginning.”
"I'll go find the mage," Lorraine said, suddenly standing.
Alexina glanced over at her sister, "If you feel it's best that I not go with them, then I won't. It's up too you sis. You are my boss after all." She looked at Rian and nods once
Venreena chuffed a sigh, “I said you could go,” she told Alexina.
"Ha-have whomever else you're sending contact me by tomorrow night,” Lorraine said as she departed, side stepping Alexina, careful not to touch her in anyway and moved for the door.
Rian dipped her head, "The beginning of a great many things I think. I do appreciate it," She'd bow to the trio, "Light Bless." She'd follow Lorraine out.
Lorraine heard Venreena speak to Rian as she went as well, "Shadows guide."
(Collaborative RP with @rian-kestavin @venreenaholt @audrik-caspian @alexandria-morrowgrove & @alexinathorne )
"About to start final checks, be ready to move out in one hour." Rian lowered her hand from her com piece. Dawn had just barely begun to show over the tips of the eastern mountains as she looked out over the field before the Ravenshollow Keep. Nearly three hundred men and women of the county had gathered the night before and were making ready to march. The King had called and House Kestavin would answer.
Pulling Duke’s reins, she turned the armored war steed towards the rear of the lines, surveying each battalion group as she went. Each time eye contact was made the Countess dipped her head with an acknowledging nod. As the last of the troops fell in, Rian looked back on the line of Ravenguard, footmen, cavalry, canoneers, archers, and rangers. Some had been born and raised in the Alterac mountains while others still had come from farther regions, but the one thing that all shared beyond the colors on their chest was the fact they were all adamant to deliver vengeance for the sins of the Banshee Queen. The nation had long since grown tired, with the King’s call it was time for the gloves to come off.
On the fall of the hour, Rian straightened her shoulders, it was another pull of the reins to return to the front. In past weeks the Horde tensions turned from rumor to action. Actions that the horde would be held accountable for, a task that would fuel each soul in the lines forward. Drawing out her blade, raising it skyward as she summoned a flaming light along it’s edges. Urging Duke forward into a gallop, Rian called out to those gathered for the loyal march, “FOR TELDRASSIL! FOR LORDAERON!... FOR THE ALLIANCE!” The valley erupted in a wave of roaring cheers and the clash of weapons on shields. A deep thrum sounded in the under tones in the ripple of a snare and bass drum to set the pace.
Guiding Duke between bannermen, Rian brought him to a halt at Thaylynn’s side and settled her blade back into it’s place on her back. Leaning forward she glanced between her husband and the Warden. “My Lord, Warden, on your ready.”
(( @house-kestavin @thaylynnkestavin @beau-wra @alexkestavin @waroftwowolves @audrik-caspian @aishailey For mentions/pertinent. Apologies for running late with the stories. wrapping up the last days of vacation.))
The air was electric with anticipation on the fields among the ruins of Lordaeron. Each soul on the line pushed forward as the King’s command coursed through the field. It was with pride and purpose Rian steadied along side the men and women of Ravenshollow. It was as the forces surged a beat forward the weight of a shield shoved the woman back. Re firming her footing for a forward blow, a prayer was called out to the Light, to summon it’s energy for a crusading strike against the lumbering foe. However, there was no light forging the path of her blade which caused the swing to falter. Another prayer, another parried blow. Finding herself caught into a corner as the beastly figure rose up, ax held high and ready to strike.
As the world fell dark words echoed through, “The light isn’t with you. The light is a lie that failed Azeroth, and you, in your times of need...”
(( @house-kestavin @thaylynnkestavin @beau-wra @thalsianiii for mentions and pertinence))
Rapid breaths filled Rian’s lungs as she gasped into a wakeful state. Her jaws clenched at the pain that tore through her battered form with the jolt. Days they’d fought for Lordaeron, pressing into the weakened spots and pulling back to regroup as needed. Each night on the journey home came with visions that weighed heavy on the countess’ conscience. The Light did not answer as it usually did when she prayed. The heartlessness of the Horde and the Banshee Queen to smother their own among their enemy. The cutting down of good men and women who had rallied for their cause.
Pulling on her robe over the array of bandages and slung arm, Rian padded her way out of her quarters and up top of the keep wall. It was hope that she looked for in the night sky, but it was more weight that was found. A brighter star to the southeast was the beacon to Sargeras’ sword. To the Northeast, fires still blazed and Blight lingered in the fog. To the far east Teldrassil still burned. To the west, lands still recovering from the rot of the scourge. It all seemed so large and looming with each speckled star dotting the sky a reminder of the lives lost in the siege.
Had it not been for the others of the Ravenguard at her side, Rian would likely have been among the bodies brought home being prepared for their pyres. She’d called for the Light and it denied her mid combat. Confusion and fear found the folds of her gut, bringing the Countess to lurch forward and brace the stone post. It was the back of her loose arm that lifted to cover her mouth on the gasp of a released sob.
For all the battles she’d seen the Light had always answered. For all the enemies she’d faced, even demons had some extent of self preservation in their purpose. This war was one unlike any she’d seen before. After the battle in Stranglethorn she could still taste the vile bitterness of the Blight. After bearing witness to Lordaeron and the torrent of loss she feared for her people. Under the weight of the night and inflections of the battles Rian fell to her knees in broken sobs. In the solitude of the night, the woman mourned. She’d hold strong in front of the faces of her most cherished, but for now she’d allow herself the quiet release of the battles near and far, past and those yet to come.
