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Solivar
Guardian - Lore Master

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Joined: 18 Dec 2009
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re: Many Unhappy Returns

[Solivar is in Brill, making preparations for Steadfast’s voyage to Northrend....]

Dharkoth says: I have a few words for you

Solivar says: ...And I for you, as well. Perhaps somewhere less...public?

[A silver-white fox, lurking in the shadows of Brill’s new Forsaken Gothic architecture, catches Solivar’s eye.]

Dharkoth says: Solivar the boy did not deserve what you did to him. Me I can understand, but the not the boy!

Solivar glances over his shoulder at the silver-white fox, and at the villagers milling abou the square.
Solivar leans close and murmurs, "There are too many eyes here."

Dharkoth says: DO you think I care about that? You do not have to live with what the boy is going thru right now I do!

Solivar says: You *should* care. You *both* should care. Please. Come with me.

Dharkoth says: No Solivar you are the one who should of cared!
Dharkoth says: The boy worships you and you betrayed him
Dharkoth says: He was loyal to you
Dharkoth says: He stayed away from you and Steadfast in fear of causing you harm, when the Silver Eyes was searching for him and what do you do turn your back on him for the one person who totured him and enjoyed it

Solivar says: I do not now, nor have I ever, deserved his worship. And I care more than you can imagine. If I did not care, I would not be asking you to come away from this place now.
Solivar says: It is *not* safe for either of you here.

Dharkoth says: do not make me laugh Solivar
Dharkoth says: You think those slack jawed Silver eyes are a trouble to me. they are not

Solivar says: That is not a matter on which I am inclined to take risks.

Dharkoth says: I have had to nurse maid the boy since you did this. He has buried himself in bourbon now

Solivar scrubs a hand over his face.

Dharkoth says: This is why I am talking to you now, for he is once again out

Solivar says: Do you -- does *he* -- think I would have called on her if I had *any* better options?

Dharkoth says: Answer me this why did you side with my little spy?
Dharkoth says: YOU had better options than dealing with her
Dharkoth says: The boy told you what she did to him
Dharkoth says: The boy told you how she relished it
Dharkoth says: and yet you cralwed right into bed with her in front of him

Solivar says: Because she is tied to both the girl *and* Baranthore.

Dharkoth says: and you are fool!

Solivar grinds his teeth.

Dharkoth says: did you even bother to speak to be boy on this?
Dharkoth says: the boy knew of the child!
Dharkoth says: the boy could of told you and did that the child was alive
Dharkoth says: yet did you listen?

Solivar says: I did not have the opportunity. She inserted herself into the proceedings at Mardenholde by her will, not mine.

[The fox Syrenna emerges from the shadows, even as Meton arrives in the square.]

Dharkoth says: tell me Solivar are these two with you as well?

Solivar says: And, yes, I did listen when he spoke of the girl. But the girl is only part of the puzzle.

Dharkoth says: Again did you ask the boy?

Solivar says: I know he believes Neshala is alive. And I trust his instincts in that.

Dharkoth says: I KNOW THE CHILD IS ALIVE!

Solivar says: But Andinthe may hold keys to Baranthore's mind --

Dharkoth says: if you trust his instinct why did you try to destroy him?

Solivar says: Does Dharkoth believe that?

Dharkoth says: She holds nothing, but contempl for us as well as a hatred for revenge
Dharkoth says: why do you think the boy tries to hide in a bottle now?
Dharkoth says: Who is this beast with us?

Solivar 's gaze slides sideways to the fox.

Meton looks at Syrenna.

Solivar says: She is the companion of a sin'dorei hunter...who also possesses a close tie to Neshala.
Solivar says: A friend of her family, he says.

[Meton regards the enormous statue of the Banshee Queen in the town square with an ironic eye.]

Meton says: That woman is really into herself these days.
Meton says: Great statue though...I should get one made of me.
Meton flexes his muscles. Oooooh so strong!

Solivar inclines his head in greeting.

Meton says: Like this?

Dayari greets everyone with a hearty hello!

Solivar says: Greetings Dayari.

Meton says: Good girl.

Dayari says: Dharkoth. Your lock looks better today.

Meton pets Syrenna.

Dharkoth says: they boy is sleeping off a drunk

Dayari says: There's a boy here?
Dayari says: Those are the little things that aren't green and don't have beards, I think?

Dharkoth says: yes Sir Antarios

Dayari says: Who?

Solivar says: ...Those are goblins, Dayari.

Dayari says: The green ones, yes.

Dharkoth says: As I said Solivar the boy trusted you and you betrayed that
Dharkoth says: and to of all people her

Solivar says: ...If Dharkoth believes that I would betray him, that I would willfully cause him pain or attempt his destruction...he does not know me as well as he thinks he does.

Dharkoth says: do you know how long it took for me to get the boys mind back to him after what she did to him

[Solivar turns and walks away, struggling to control himself, and searches for Ayerian, who must be nearby.]

Solivar glances around the alchemist's laboratory.

Meton says: Indeed I am here Dayari.
Meton smiles.

Solivar 's face is utterly blank of expression, his voice planed completely flat when he speaks.
Solivar says: I am going to throttle that hunter when he finally sees fit to join us.

Dharkoth says: think hard on this before you answer
Dharkoth says: what did you do the last time you saw Dharkoth?

Dayari says: I asked him about a rat.

Dharkoth says: did you have his well being in mind?
Dharkoth says: did you have his trust in mind?
Dharkoth says: did you show him how much he could trust you?
Dharkoth says: tell me Solivar did you do any of these things?
Dharkoth says: did you show him you cared about him?
Dharkoth says: think hard on these things before answering

Solivar 's voice is utterly devoid of emotion.
Solivar says: When last we spoke, Dharkoth told me my presence was unwelcome to him.

Dharkoth says: tell me why was that Solivar?

Solivar says: You know, as well as I, why that was.

Dayari scowls and furrows his brow.

Dharkoth says: then say it Solivar!

Solivar says: And you know also that no word or deed or explanation of mine will undo that -- Andinthe has made common cause with us in the matter of Baranthore and his daughter.

Dharkoth says: DO you know how long it took for him to remove that brand?
Dharkoth says: YOU are such a fool! I do not understand why he respects you so.
Dharkoth says: Andinthee used you to further her purpose

Ayerian mumbles to Syrenna.

Dayari says: Are we here to yell at each other?

Dharkoth says: She is such a good little spy

Solivar says: And her purpose?

Dharkoth says: she used that meeting to drive a wedge between you two and you walked in to it like the fool you are
Dharkoth says: She is not done with me
Dharkoth says: she blames me
Dharkoth says: and she wants her revenge or as she put it she will finish what she started

Solivar says: Oh, I assure you -- she *is.* If she raises a hand to you, it will be the last thing she does with it -- or any other portion of her body, for that matter.
Solivar says: Whether Dharkoth choses to trust me or not.

Dayari says: So we should kill her first. The Dark Lady wouldn't like one of the Not-Scourge killing one of us.

Dharkoth says: brave words, but meaningless

Solivar says: Of course they are.
Solivar says: We have a task to accomplish, and a trail to follow. Will you assist us in that?

Dharkoth says: she has already placed her plan into motion and as I said you walked into
Dharkoth says: why should I trust you?
Dharkoth says: look at what you did to the boy
Dharkoth says: am I next on that list?

Solivar says: Because you know -- you both know -- what I would be willing to do to protect you. That has *never* changed.

Ayerian glares at Dharkoth, not entirely sure of what is occuring, clearly not happy with it.

Dayari looks at Ayerian.
Dayari says: I know you, right?
Dayari says: Something that starts with an A, right?

Ayerian leans back somewhat, clearly not enjoying being so close to somthing unliving.

Dayari mumbles something about should've written things down.

Dharkoth looks at thee hunter, then looks back at Solivar not caring who he was or why he was there

Ayerian says: Ayerian...

Dayari says: Ayerian...starts with an A.
Dayari says: I think you were the one with the messenger.

Ayerian grins uneasily.

Dharkoth says: no Solivar the boy does not know anything anymore since you walked into her web

Ayerian says: Might think about going off and finding your brain in one of those graves there...

Dayari says: No, you were the one with the messenger.
Dayari says: You said not to kill the messenger.
Dayari says: But I didn't.

Ayerian looks around for a distraction of sorts, clearly uncomfortable.

Dayari says: No. That's not right. Your weapon is bigger....

Solivar says: What does he want of me, then? What will convince him that I meant him no harm? Will anything?

Dayari says: So, if you're not the right A-person, what are you doing here?

Dharkoth says: you opening and willing sided with the one person who hates him and who tortured him. She branded him and relished torturing him

Ayerian says: ... Work... And I'm on contract... You know this.... you're with the others... right?

Dharkoth says: she tried to break him

Dayari says: Yes. Which others?

Ayerian says: ...

Dharkoth says: she used the child or tried to hoping it would break him, but I shielded him from most of it

Ayerian looks over to the mailbox.

Dharkoth says: SO you tell me Solivar how do you think you can make him trust you now?

Ayerian says: Hey... I think there is something for you in there..
Ayerian dashes off.

Dharkoth says: Andinthe did her work well
Dharkoth says: She struck at him the one place she knew would hurt him the most and you fell for it like a fool. A blind FOOL!

Solivar says: You are saying there is nothing I can do.

Dharkoth says: I an telling you what the boy feels right now. His total world has been torn apart
Dharkoth says: YOU were that world, that family
Dharkoth says: and you turned your back on him like she knew you would
Dharkoth says: so you tell me Solivar what are you going to do to rectify this?

Solivar says: ...I do not know.

Dharkoth says: Then you have much more thinking to do don't you?
Dharkoth says: I will be helping the boy now, as I have for the last 3 years.
Dharkoth says: He is much stronger than you all realize, but also weak in some ways

Dayari looks at Syrenna.

Ayerian flips his rifle around and begins to balance it in the palm of his hand.

Dharkoth says: I will do what I can to try and talk some sense into him. When you come to your senses as well get in touch with me.

Dayari says: Solivar.

Dharkoth says: Oh, and tell the SIlver Eyes that we say hello

Solivar says: ...I...thank you for your...efforts in this.

Dharkoth says: Remove the mirror from Baranthore it may help

Solivar says: And I will certainly do so. If only for the amusement value.
Solivar says: Wait. The mirror. What *is* it?

Dharkoth says: The boy is part of me or me of him. I do not know anymore, but he means something to me now
Dharkoth says: If it was not for him. I would not of been saved

Solivar says: I have found nothing about it in the royal library in Silvermoon, or the archive of Undercity, and not even Dalaran. Do you know what it is?
Solivar 's nonexpression wavers around the edges, and then smooths flat again.

Dharkoth says: It is something left behind by the Old ones.
Dharkoth says: Solivar you stink of that taint as well. I would be careful how you push yourself or you will become like him too.

Dayari says: How old?

Solivar says: That is an excellent question.

Meton 's face becomes pensive for a moment.

Dharkoth says: Go do whatever it was you were going to do
Dharkoth says: I have been here too long. I did what I planned to do and that was talk to you. Think hard on all I told you Solivar for the boys sake.
Dharkoth says: You have changed much Sir Meton

Meton says: Suppose so.

Dharkoth says: and as for you Dayari, he holds you fondly in his heart be well

Dayari says: Good. Friends are good.
Dayari says: Most of them anyway

Dharkoth says: think hard Solivar, fare thee well, but do not wait too long on all accounts with what i have told you

Dayari waves goodbye to Dharkoth. Farewell!
Dayari says: That wasn't Dharkoth, was it?

Ayerian says: Who, in the name of the Light, was that creep.....

Meton says: Now. Let's head to Northrend.

Solivar says: ....No, it was not.

Meton says: We've wasted enough time here.

Ayerian nods at Meton.

Solivar says: ....Agreed.

Dayari says: Where to?
Dayari says: You again.

Ayerian glances at Dayari, still appearing to be somewhat uncomfortable.

Solivar says: Vengeance Landing. Ayerian saw Baranthore take ship for Northrend from here....he must have traveled to Vengeance Landing.

Ayerian says: Then why are we still here?

Solivar says: No reason, now. Let us go.

Ayerian whistles for Syrenna who quickly comes prancing over.

Meton says: Hmm. Although something he said bothers me.
Meton says: Solivar, you do seem a bit different and you've had contact with that mirror that turned Baranthore to insanity?

Solivar says: ....I am not entirely certain about the mirror.

Ayerian mumbles something about "damn mirrors" and "morons being possessed".
Ayerian glances at Syrenna as she perks up and sniffs the air.
Ayerian says: Wait for the boat.

Solivar says: When we went to Atal'Hakkar, we found a mirror in the lowest level of the temple there. A mirror made of polished stone, very sharp along the edges. Do you remember?

Meton says: Yes.

Dayari says: No.

Meton says: That was quite some time ago

Solivar says: Yes.
Solivar strips off his left gauntlet, exposing a hand wrapped in heavily enchanted bandages, extending somewhere above his wrist.
Solivar says: I cut myself on the mirror's edge.
Solivar says: The wound never healed in any meaningful way.

Meton says: It's just now starting to affect you?

Dayari says: Could cut your hand off to get rid of the wound?

Solivar says: No. It partially broke the magic that preserves my physical state.

Dayari says: Oh.

Ayerian says: Why this place?

Dayari says: It's a good place.

Ayerian says: What has a Forsaken camp have to do with our search...

Dayari says: The living don't belong here.

Ayerian mumbles.
Ayerian says: No kidding...

Solivar says: Warsong Hold is a military installation -- flying into the fortress might raise questions Baranthore would prefer to avoid...

Ayerian says: Hey wait...
Ayerian says: Isn't that an Elven ship just off the coast?

Solivar says: Whereas here...? He might excite no notice...Where?

Ayerian peers off towards the horizon.

Dayari gazes blankly at the ocean.

Ayerian says: The Reliquary...
Ayerian says: Perhaps they have sent boats ashore..

Solivar tugs his gauntlet back on, flexing his fingers carefully.

Ayerian glances over at Solivar, curious.

Solivar says: I wonder. The Reliquary is heavily involved in the recovery and acquisition of antiquities...like this mirror that Dharkoth spoke of...

Ayerian says: I am going to seek out one of the archeologists.... We will need mounts and supplies... would you... people... be able to go gather them up?

Solivar says: Of course.

Ayerian says: Perhaps we can get one to come with us.

Dayari says: We need something?

Ayerian says: I will meet you at the western border of this... place...

Solivar says: ....I get the feeling he does not like us.

Dayari says: He's not the right one.
Dayari says: We go West?

Solivar 's lips quirk in an expression that completely fails to become a smile.
Solivar says: Yes.

Ayerian says: The main expedition and archeology force has already went ahead.

Solivar says: Where to?

Ayerian says: One of the sailors said that they were headed to Utgarde Keep first.
Ayerian says: Where would Nes... the girl have been kept? Is that even close to where we need to be?

Dayari shrugs. Who knows?

Solivar says: A charming place to dig for momentos. We found her in Icecrown itself, though the children were scattered all over Northrend for a time. She could have been held there.

Ayerian grumbles.

Solivar says: Shall we, gentlemen?

Dayari says: We're going somewhere now?

Solivar says: Utgarde, to find these...archaeologists.

Ayerian says: I am going ahead to scout out the area... I will meet up with you somewhere within the keep... The sailor said you could probably find the team, or at least some of them, on the eastern platform, just above the dam.

Meton says: Alright.

Dayari says: I think I was there before.

Ayerian waves goodbye to everyone. Farewell!

Meton says: Lets go then.

Dayari waves goodbye to Ayerian. Farewell!

[Steadfast departs Vengeance Landing for the charming environs of Utgarde Keep, formerly a Vrykul fortress and the home of Prince Keleseth of the San’layn. As they approach the Reliquary camp outside the fortress’ bastion, they see a familiar face: the sin’dorei priestess Cathrinia.]

Dayari says: There's a reason I don't like this place....

Cathrinia says: What are you doing here?

Solivar says: Searching for answers. As always. And you?

Cathrinia says: The same, to an extent...

Dayari peers at Cathrinia searchingly.

Cathrinia says: The Reliquary is here now, and we are searching for certain artifacts.
Cathrinia says: Lor'themar has requested that this site be personally overseen.

Solivar says: Ahh. So you are part of the archaeological team.

Dayari says: More things that people threw away?

Cathrinia says: In a sense...
Cathrinia says: What answers are you seeking here?

Solivar says: Have you a moment to spare? The situation is delicate...and it involves Baranthore.

Cathrinia glances up at the sky as a dragon hawk flys over.
Cathrinia looks back towards Solivar.
Cathrinia says: Of course.

Dayari frowns with disappointment at Cathrinia.

[A Vrykul warband sweeps out of the forest, with unfortunate results for them.]

Solivar says: ....Perhaps inside?

Cathrinia says: These Vyrkul are relentless...

Meton wipes some gore off of himself.

Cathrinia says: Inside.. will not work.
Cathrinia says: The Vrykul, after the fall of the Lich King, have worked to retake their home, for their own sake...
Cathrinia says: We have had to fight through them, so Utgarde itself is not entirely safe..

Dayari points at Dragonflayer Lieutenant.
Dayari says: Those?

Cathrinia says: I do know a place we can talk though...
Cathrinia nods.

Dayari says: They die easy.

Cathrinia says: Follow me.

Solivar says: Very well. Lead the way, Lady.

[The group descends a narrow path down the cliff-face and across the slender strand of beach clinging to the shore of the fjord, and from there across the water into a deep cavern.]

Cathrinia says: This has been the Reliquary's main staging area, we have moved forward though.

Dayari says: It's a cave.

Cathrinia says: We moved most of the equipment forward, so we should be safe here, and alone.
Cathrinia says: So what troubles Baranthore?

Solivar says: Good. As I said...the matter is a delicate one. Are you familiar with an object called the kaldorei mirror of souls?

Cathrinia seems to daze off into her thoughts.
Cathrinia says: Yes, I do believe so. It was shattered was it not?

Solivar says: Lady?
Solivar says: I do not know. I know, in fact, very little of it. We do, however, have reason to suspect that Baranthore has fallen under its influence....

Cathrinia says: That is indeed... grave...

Solivar says: And that it has compelled him to near-madness.

Cathrinia says: How so? What has he done?

Solivar says: He believes that the Light has granted him the power to command the undead.

Dayari says: Can he?

Solivar says: And he did use...a power of supernatural origin to compel my physical obedience to his will.

Dayari frowns.

Cathrinia says: Hmmm... To be honest you may be wrong, I do not believe, from what I have read, that the mirror would influence him in such a way. The mirror was not a tool to implant thoughts or ideals, but instead to grant it's holder a glimpse at their past...
Cathrinia says: I think, this may be more than just the mirror.

Solivar says: ...I would not be wholly surprised if it were.

Cathrinia says: Do you have any other fragments of the mirror?

Solivar says: A...glimpse of the past? How so?

Cathrinia says: Hmmm. When looking into the enchanted glass, it reflects an image of the polar personality of the indivual. The Kel'dorei used this to look back on their actions, and analyze it from all aspects, both sides of their minds.

Dayari says: Past is better in the past.

Cathrinia says: One that speaks of good intentions, and that for personal gains. It allows the holder to look back and see events, and essentially change the outcome in their mind, just to show them what would have been.
Cathrinia says: Perhaps he saw something he did not like...
Cathrinia says: Or maybe, that he did, and never achieved it.

Solivar says: Dharkoth...may have a piece of the mirror, as well. He believed that Baranthore was being driven by his guilt -- the guilt he felt for leaving Neshala behind.

Cathrinia frowns.

Meton says: When did he leave the kid behind?

Cathrinia says: He didn't...
Cathrinia says: She was said to have been killed by Andinthe, and raised as a ghoul.

Meton says: When did this happen?

Cathrinia says: Towards the end of the war.

Meton says: Or was this something he saw in the mirror?

Cathrinia says: No, this all did indeed happen.

Solivar says: He left her in my care, in essence, and returned to Northrend, to the tuteledge of Highlord Fordring.

Dayari says: Which war? There were two.

Cathrinia says: Solivar, how did he act towards you?
Cathrinia says: When you saw him?

Meton says: So Neshala is a ghoul now?

Cathrinia says: We are unsure.
Cathrinia says: I have not heard from Andinthe or her ventures in a while, so Neshala's fate is unknown to me. Last news I heard, was that she was possibly alive.
Cathrinia says: No promises though.

Solivar says: He was...unusually aggressive in his attitude. As I said...he attempted to compel me to physically obey his wishes and when the compulsion did not last, he attacked me.

Cathrinia says: Hmm..
Cathrinia says: It may be possible that he holds you at fault for Neshala's fate.

Solivar says: Stabbed me, in truth, though the weapon left no injury.

Cathrinia says: An etheral blade then?

Dayari looks at you.

Cathrinia pulls out Perdition's Blade from within the pockets of her robe.
Cathrinia says: Something like this?

Solivar says: ....Yes. Very like that.

Dayari says: Doesn't look too bad.
Dayari says: I've seen sharper

Cathrinia says: These are crafted by the Quel'Dorei, they leave no physical mark, but are cursed or enchanted.

Solivar says: I thought such things fables, to be truthful. And, yes, he likely does hold me at some fault for Neshala's...disappearance.

Cathrinia says: Very few remain now, so I am curious as how to he acquired one.
Cathrinia says: Finding Neshala is important then.
Cathrinia says: I am curious as to what effect the blade has on you though..
Cathrinia says: Anything seem strange with yourself lately?

Solivar says: It has not appeared to have any effect that I have noticed.

Cathrinia says: Hmmm...

Meton says: I have noticed a few things.

Cathrinia raises her eyebrow inquisitively at Meton.

Solivar glances sidelong at Meton.

Meton says: Solivar, you seem to be more emotionless at times.
Meton says: Other times you seem to have a shorter temper.

Dayari looks at Solivar, peering over physical details.

Meton says: Either that's from the blade or it's from something I missed for those three years.

Solivar 's hand comes to rest on his midsection, his brows drawing together slightly.

Cathrinia closes her eyes and extends a hand out to Solivar.

Meton says: It almost reminds me of what I have heard of well, Mercy.

Solivar says: I...cannot say if this is true or not. My --

Dayari looks at you.

Cathrinia says: I think the signs you are seeing Meton, are unrelated to the blade itself.

Solivar 's expression is, for a fleeting instant, one of intense horror, flickering into pain as Cathrinia's power touches him.

Meton says: Solivar?

Solivar says: What do you mean?

Cathrinia says: The Blade's cursed or enchanted energies would have reacted strongly to any holy magic if they were having any effect currently.
Cathrinia says: The curse or enchant, has either not taken effect, or is triggered by something.

Dayari says: Triggered by...like a weapon?

Solivar nods fractionally.

Cathrinia says: I would not worry about it now, I think the main point you should look to is finding Baranthore and the girl.
Cathrinia says: Possibly.
Cathrinia says: Why did you come to Utgarde of all places to search for the girl?

Solivar says: Agreed. I do not suppose you have had any contact with him recently?

Dayari says: Finding Baranthore and the girl.

Cathrinia says: No, not since the war ended.

Solivar says: ...Odd. He told us, when last we spoke to him, that you were mad -- mutilated in body and twisted in mind.

Cathrinia says: Hmmm... I dear so hope not.
Cathrinia laughs.
Cathrinia says: Perhaps another effect of the mirror.

Dayari says: Weren't you different before?

Cathrinia glares angrily at Dayari.

Solivar says: He asked me if *I* had seen *you.* But, then, he is...not in his right mind. We came to Utgarde in search of the Reliquary camp...

Cathrinia says: There was a time, yes. Perhaps he is recalling those moments.

Solivar says: And as it happens, it was here that we found you.

Cathrinia nods.

Meton says: Got lost in the shadow?

Cathrinia glares angrily at Meton.
Cathrinia says: Not quite.
Cathrinia says: The Reliquary camp is being set up, but there is not much to see. Any of the archeologists currently active would have headed to the under ground halls.
Cathrinia says: I do believe there was at one point, a prison down blow...

Solivar says: Our thought was that the mirror might be influencing his behavior -- and if it were truly a relic of the Old Ones....

Cathrinia says: Hmm...
Cathrinia says: So you search for more fragments?

Solivar says: Expert advise, actually. You think there *are* more fragments to be found?

Cathrinia says: Well they simply don't just vanish into thin air.
Cathrinia says: Perhaps some of the ghouls down below have them, as they are probably the only ones every stumbling across things anymore.
Cathrinia says: With no leader, they wander mindlessly.

Solivar says: True. But what would acquiring them accomplish?

Cathrinia says: So it would not surprise me if they were attracted to such fragments.
Cathrinia says: Perhaps, with enough fragments, it could be reverse engineered.

Dayari says: They'd have them then.

Solivar says: And the completed object would be of some use in liberating Baranthore's mind?

Cathrinia says: Perhaps.
Cathrinia says: Before that can happen, I would suggest finding his daughter. Still, feel free to collect fragments along the way.

Solivar scrubs a hand over his face.

Cathrinia says: We should head back tot he mainland then.
Cathrinia says: I can take you to the catacombs.

Solivar says: If Neshala Sunstriker still lives, I would gladly find her and restore her to her father...but on that score, I have no idea where to even begin.

Cathrinia says: Well, let us search for clues then.

[The group leaves the Reliquary’s cavern-camp and makes its way across the fjord, dodging some groups of Vrykul warriors and fighting others, on their way to the catacombs beneath Utgarde Keep.]

Dayari says: This doesn't look like the place.

Cathrinia hums quietly to herself.

Meton says: Nice tune.

Cathrinia suddenly becomes silent, and for a fragment of a second you see a transformation.

Dayari mutters to himself..."used to not be so noisy."

Meton laughs to himself for a moment

Solivar says: ...

Meton says: Something wrong?

Cathrinia says: We will have to push through the Vyrkul forces.
Cathrinia looks down into the pit.
Cathrinia says: By the light...

Dayari says: Dogs.

Cathrinia says: They have fed some of the Archeologists to the worgs...
Cathrinia looks ill.

Solivar says: How...unfortunate.

Dayari says: Were they hungry?

Solivar doesn't look ill so much as vaguely amused.

Cathrinia says: Things are getting worse here...

Meton says: Seems that way.

Cathrinia says: There.
Cathrinia says: That is the entrance.

Dayari says: To?

Cathrinia says: The catacombs.

[Quite a bit of bloodshed ensues on the way down into the catacombs, until the group reaches the balcony overlooking the ghoul pens, swarming with hundreds of the mindless, hungry creatures, untended by any keeper.]

Meton says: These guys are far too easy...
Meton says: There we go!
Meton holsters his weapon.
Meton says: This will be more fun.

Cathrinia says: There..

Dayari says: Scourge

Meton whistles.

[Solivar descends into the ghoul pens, and begins killing everything that comes near him, willingly or otheriwse.]

Dayari says: They get back up...

[Repeatedly.]

Dayari says: Piles of them...

[And some more.]

Dayari pokes you. Hey!

[And a few hundred more just for good measure.]

Dayari says: Too many....
Dayari aims the flat of his axe against Solivar's back.
Dayari says: Bad place!

Solivar says: ...Dayari...?

Dayari says: Bad place.
Dayari beckons you over.

Solivar says: ...Why are we...never mind. Let us...find a somewhat safer place to stand.

Dayari agrees with you.

Meton says: Now that was some fun.

Dayari says: Bad place...

Solivar runs the tips of his fingers down the blood-slicked length of his runeblade, and laps them clean, almost absent-mindedly.

Dayari says: Did we come here to kill Scourge?

Solivar says: ....Why was I standing hip-deep in a pile of ghouls?

Meton says: I figured you were loving the fight like I was.

Cathrinia says: We were to press to the end of the tunnel... but it seems... your bloodlust has taken over...

Dayari says: Bloodlust. But you're not an Orc, are you?

Meton says: Gotta love an opportunity to go unarmed against an army of ghouls.

Solivar says: ...No other way around...?

Cathrinia says: I don't believe so.

Meton says: You worried Brother?

Solivar shakes his head slightly.

Meton says: Lets push through then!

Solivar says: No time for it. We will have to run.

Cathrinia says: Alright.

[The group runs without pause through the ghoul pens, leaving a trail of scourged corpses to mark their passage. They come to the end of the corridor, where a wide wooden altar stands, a strangely illuminated sword plunged into the paving stones before it.]

Dayari says: Sword

Cathrinia says: Another blade..

Solivar says: ...What is this place, Cathrinia?

Cathrinia glances down at the wooden altar, scattered across the altar are various dusts and shards.
Cathrinia says: I am.. not sure...

Dayari says: Sword's lit up.

Solivar runs his fingers across the altar lightly.

Cathrinia says: Yes... Perhaps they were enchanting it...

Meton kneels down.
Meton says: Not bad looking.

Cathrinia says: It is strange to see them doing this...

Solivar says: The Reliquary?

Cathrinia says: No, the Vrykul..
Cathrinia says: I have only seen the Highbourne ever doing such enchantments.

Dayari says: Elves.

Cathrinia says: Check the altar for any glass shards.
Cathrinia kneels down.
Cathrinia examines the blade.

Solivar does so, carefully sifting through the piles of detritus...

Dayari says: Looks like there's six candles.

Meton says: Got into that fight eh Brother?
Meton says: I was never one for rotten ghoul blood but to each his own.

Solivar says: I...It is an acquired taste, I am sure.

Cathrinia says: Find anything there?

Meton says: Nothing so far.

Dayari says: A sword.

Solivar 's tongue slides along the corner of his mouth, licking away the last flecks of ghoul ichor. He lifts a small, shining flinder of glass between two fingers.
Solivar says: Just this. A splinter, if that.

Cathrinia says: It is enough..
Cathrinia says: Here, I shall hold it... You have enough to worry about already.
Cathrinia holds out her hand.

Solivar hands it over, ice-blue eyes catching the light of the circle and returning it, as empty as an unreflecting mirror themselves.

Cathrinia seems to be consumed by shadows for an instant.
Cathrinia slides the fragment into her pocket.

Dayari says: Something different.

Cathrinia says: We should leave here now.

Meton says: Doing alright there?

Solivar says: What is that precisely?

Cathrinia says: What is what?

Solivar says: The piece of glass?

Meton says: I've seen you flicker into shadowform a few times now. Not sure if that was willing of you.

Cathrinia says: It may be another fragment, we shall see later. I will use what tools we have at the camp to further examine it.
Cathrinia says: I don't know what you're referring to Meton.
Cathrinia says: Let us leave now.

Meton rolls his eyes.

Solivar says: ...I think that a fine idea.

Cathrinia glances back at Meton, an angry look on her face.

Meton says: I just wish these ghouls had more interesting things to say.
Meton says: I find that my quips can infuriate living things
Meton says: Them, not so much.

[The group fights its way out of the Utgarde catacombs, leaving another trail of corpses in their wake.]

Cathrinia says: Where will you head next?

Dayari says: Away from here.

Solivar says: ...I am not entirely certain. If it is Neshala we seek...we may have to search in the grave. We have no proof that the girl is even alive.

Cathrinia says: Hmmm...

Solivar says: Dharkoth...believes her to be alive, but has refused to discuss how.

Dayari says: We're looking for a dead or alive girl now?

Solivar says: And I fear that I am...not in a position to press the issue with him.
Solivar glances sidelong at Meton.
Solivar says: Though others may have better fortune in that regard.

Cathrinia says: Hmm...

Meton says: What did you do to anger Dharkoth anyhow?

Solivar says: It is my thought to make what inquiries as I may...and perhaps to ask Jarrand Windspeaker to do the same.

Cathrinia says: I will return to the Reliquary camp and take a look at this shard, I will try to catch back up with you all later, but for now I have other maters I need to attend to.

Meton says: Fare well then.

Dayari says: Could be worse.

Solivar gazes directly through Cathrinia, his gaze utterly empty.

Cathrinia glances back up to the upper platform, a dragonhawk flys right over head and backwards towards Vengance Landing.
Cathrinia looks at you.
Cathrinia says: Things will get better Solivar.
Cathrinia says: Have faith in the light.

Meton snickers ever so slightly at that.

Dayari says: Didn't used to.

Solivar says: I doubt that. Go carefully, Lady, and please let us know what you learn as swiftly as you can.

Cathrinia nods.

Dayari says: Too noisy now.

Solivar says: Meton...

Meton says: Hmm?

Solivar says: A rat? Really, brother.
Solivar shakes his head.

Meton says: Is it really that strange?
Meton says: Kinda turned him into mush though didn't I...
Meton pokes it with his foot.

Solivar says: ...Perhaps not. Would you...inquire with Dharkoth, if he is to be found, about Neshala?

Meton says: Yup...seen mashed potatoes with more consistency. Damn I'm good!
Meton says: Oh?
Meton says: Sure.

Solivar says: He is entirely convinced that she still lives. I wish to know the origin of that certainty.

Meton says: So find out why he thinks she still lives...got it.

Solivar says: Thank you, brother.

Meton says: Of course.
Meton says: I do hope she still lives.

Solivar turns his gaze to Dayari.
Solivar says: Still watching?

Dayari says: I was told to watch.
Dayari says: I wrote it down.

Solivar says: Good.

Dayari says: Good.

Meton says: Good.

Solivar says: I...think that we should return to Vengeance Landing.

Dayari says: Better place

Meton says: Sounds fine to me.

[From the air, Solivar spots Ayerian making his way across country on the ground, and swoops down to intercept him.]

Solivar says: This is a dangerous place to be wandering alone.

Ayerian says: I am more than capable of handling myself, but thank you.
Ayerian says: I fly over the surrounding areas, Vrykul infest all of this land now.

Solivar says: Yes. We discovered that the hard way. Come -- we are returning to Vengeance Landing.

Ayerian says: Aye.
Ayerian says: I found a campsite to the north.

Dayari says: See: here.

Solivar says: A Reliquary camp?

Ayerian says: No, I don't think so.
Ayerian says: It was very simple, the tent had fallen over, but the fire was recently extinguished.
Ayerian says: It may be a long shot, but that might be his.
Ayerian says: Not many adventurers remain here in Northrend.

Solivar says: How far to the north?

Ayerian says: It is mostly the Reliqiuary, and they leave a trace.
Ayerian says: North near the mountain pass into the Grizzly Hills.

Solivar says: Were there any signs of which direction he might have traveled in?

Ayerian says: Probably further north beyond that, but I cannot tell without going out to track him.
Ayerian says: It will take me several days, I can go north and do that now, and meet you back here in several days, but that is the most I can do now.

Dayari says: You should do that then.

Ayerian nods.

Dayari says: Find the alive or dead girl.

Ayerian nods.
Ayerian says: I will report back here to you in a week or so.

Solivar says: Agreed. Ayerian...take no unnecessary risks. He is not in his right mind.

Ayerian says: Also, I saw another site to the south.
Ayerian says: Dwarven though, perhaps they also have found some artifacts
Ayerian says: See what you can find there.
Ayerian says: I will head out now and track what I can find!
Ayerian bows down graciously.

Meton says: Good luck.

Solivar says: Go carefully.

Ayerian says: And to you.

Dayari waves goodbye to Ayerian. Farewell!

Solivar says: I think, in truth, we should all go our own ways for the time being...

Dayari says: Alright.
Dayari says: I'll watch you later.

Meton says: Sure.

Solivar actually dredges a wry smile from somewhere.

Meton says: Solivar, can I trust you not to do something crazy while I'm not around?

Solivar says: I will make myself available at your request.
Solivar 's smile slides off his face.

Meton says: Alright but if I hear you killed an orphanage...they better have had it coming.

Solivar says: ...No, I am not certain that you can. But that is of comparatively little importance.
Solivar says: Just...speak to Dharkoth, if he will permit it. I will be enormously grateful.

Meton says: Of course but your situation is important.
Meton says: We already have one of us setting their sights to kill on the rest, we don't need you joining that team.

Dayari says: Which one is that again?

Solivar says: I will not permit it to come to that, brother. But I thank you, nonetheless, for your concern.

Meton says: Baranthore...and maybe Dharkoth. Not too sure yet on the latter. I'll get back to you on that Dayari.

Dayari says: Two?

Meton says: But yes, we should head our separate ways.

Dayari says: Alright, watching later.

Solivar says: Farewell for now, brothers. Go carefully...

Dayari waves goodbye to everyone. Farewell!

Meton says: And you as well.


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re: Many Unhappy Returns

[Later that night, Solivar finds himself landing on the flight platform of the necropolis Zeramas, with no knowledge of how he came to be there or why...]

Baranthore is kneeling on the platform before you, his flesh appears to be melding with the blackened armor that encases his body, his head just barely visable through a spiked collar.

Solivar says: ...Baranthore?

Baranthore lets out a sickly, hacking cough. The air around you seems colder with each passing moment.
Baranthore remains on his kneels, but turns his head up to stare at you with cold, empty eyes.
Baranthore says: Mercy. Is that what they called you? Why?

Solivar freezes in mid-movement, holding his place at the edge of the circle.
Solivar says: Because I had none. Never let it be said that the King's first steward lacked a sense of humor.

Baranthore says: How, did you die?
Baranthore lets out another hacking cough. His body literally quaking with each forceful exertion of air.

Solivar steps into the circle and approaches slowly.

Solivar says: ...I do not remember.

Baranthore says: Why are you here?

Solivar says: I came to bring you home.

Baranthore says: Do you remember how you got here? Are you even really here?
Baranthore says: What is, here?
Baranthore stands uneasily. His legs unstable but holding.

Solivar rests a hand gingerly on Baranthore's eldbow, lending him balance.
Solivar says: Zeramas. We are...in Zeramas, I think. Nothing else smells quite like Zul'Drak.

Baranthore says: Why am I here?

Solivar says: We think you came to Northrend searching for Neshala...

Baranthore stares out blankly at the surround tier, slowly, ghosts begin to materialize along the ring. Andinthe, Dharkoth, Jinjai, Jarrand, Neshala and Leia among them.
Baranthore says: Who is Neshala?

Solivar says: What happened to you --
Solivar 's gaze flxes on the outer tier beyond Baranthore's shoulder, sliding back to him only with reluctance.

Baranthore says: I saw, I saw all of the future and the past...
Baranthore says: I saw the great powers that created this world, and it is those same powers that shall regain their grasp amongst this world.
Baranthore says: I saw nations, fall beneath the might of the creators.
Baranthore says: I saw heroes give their lives for less than becoming legends..
Baranthore says: And I saw all our enemies, die along side our allies, like all the rest.

Solivar says: In the mirror? Where did you find it, Baranthore?
Solivar 's eyes narrow a dangerous fraction.
Solivar says: Who *gave* it to you?

Behind Baranthore in one of the alcoves of the upper tier, the ghostly image of N'Zath appears.
Baranthore says: It came to me.

Solivar says: It is an *object,* Baranthore. Where did it come from? And why would you believe what it shows you?

Baranthore says: I, don't...
Baranthore stares blankly for a mooment, then continues, his voice deeper now.
Baranthore says: It came from below. It shows the truth, and they...
Baranthore says: They know all.

Solivar says: ...Below.
Solivar says: If the years have taught me anything...it is that nothing and no one knows all. Every path branches, sometimes in ways that we cannot begin to predict.
Solivar says: Whatever you saw...whatever you were shown...these things were meant to blind your eyes to your true path.
Solivar 's grip on Baranthore's arm tightens slightly.

Baranthore says: I have no true path, I do what is needed.

Solivar says: Come away from here, brother. This is a kingdom of ghosts now -- there is nothing for the living here.
Solivar says: We will find the Windspeaker and ask his help.

Baranthore says: They have all died. Didn't you see them?

Solivar says: *They are not dead!*

Baranthore says: Why are they not here with you?

Solivar 's voice rebounds off the walls of the necropolis core, dying away to echoes as he struggles to find the answer to that question.
Solivar says: ...I do not know. But they are *not* dead. I...will not allow that to happen.

Baranthore says: Who is not dead?
Baranthore lets out another hacking cough.

Solivar grips Baranthore's shoulder tightly and gives him an almost gentle shake.
Solivar says: Baranthore. *Focus.*
Solivar says: Why did you come here? To Zeramas of all places? Do you remember?

Baranthore says: I... do not remember...

Solivar says: Then we should go -- at once -- to somewhere safer. Please.

Baranthore says: We are safe... there is no one else here anymore. They have all died.

Solivar says: Our comrades are waiting for us, brother. Jarrand with his hands to heal you. Dharkoth to quarrel with you. Jinjai to fight at our side. Come. Dalaran is just across the forest.

Baranthore says: Do you remember how you got here? Where were you before you saw me here?

Solivar says: I...No. There was...darkness. And wind around me as though I were flying through a moonless, starless night. Before this I...
Solivar closes his eyes and thinks fixedly for a long moment.
Solivar says: Utgarde...? The catacombs beneath the citadel...I remember being there...
Solivar says: Why does this even matter?

Baranthore says: Does any of this matter?
Baranthore says: What use is this conversation?
Baranthore says: Why are we here?

Solivar hisses in exasperation.

Baranthore says: There is darkness ahead.
Baranthore says: We should leave.

Solivar says: Is there ever a time when darkness does not lie ahead? In that, we are in agreement...

Baranthore stops and turns his head as more ghosts begin to materialize behind you.
Baranthore says: They do not want you here anymore, they still hold it against you.
Baranthore says: You should leave. I must go to my master.

Solivar flicks a glance over his shoulder, his eyes dimming slightly.
Solivar says: Your master?
Solivar reclaims his grip on Baranthore's arm.

N'Zath appears with the ghosts behind you.

Baranthore says: You should leave.

Solivar says: I am not going without you.

Baranthore says: Then you will die like the rest.

Solivar says: A decade too late for that. Who is your master?

Baranthore says: He would be displeased with anyone knowing.

Solivar 's grip tightens to near bone-cracking force.
Solivar says: Baranthore...do not make me bludgeon you senseless and tie you to my gryphon. Neither of you would enjoy it.

Baranthore seems to fade away, then reappear.
Baranthore says: The dream is fading. You should leave.

Solivar says: Come back with me. There is no master here stronger than the Light.

Baranthore stares at you and his eyes begin to glow.
Baranthore says: Do you feel it? The Light, it sees you here.
Baranthore says: But it is not real.

Solivar shakes his head.

Baranthore looks back at the ghosts who approach slowly.
Baranthore says: You should leave.

Solivar says: Baranthore...if what you say is true...and this is a dream...remember this when you wake: you are not forgotten. We will find you.
Solivar says: I promise you that.

Baranthore says: They are all dead.

Solivar shivers uncontrollably as ghostly hands scrape across his armor.

Baranthore turns and falls backwards off the ledge, fading into the blackness below. Light begins to wash across your mind and the dream begins to fade.


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re: Many Unhappy Returns

Very nice.
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