[RP] At the Crossroads

[Solivar]

Dharthas: "My boy you need to put that mug away and I will speak with you on this matter, but you are doing none of us any good."

Dharkoth: "I can not. You know that. It is all I have right now. "

Dharthas: "Boy that is not true and you know it. This is just what she wanted and you too are playing into her hands. Is this what you want?"

Dharkoth: He shakes his head n. "No I do not, but he betrayed me."

Dharthas: "To a point he did, but he had no real choice in the matter. He is a blind fool sometimes."

Dharkoth: "Take that back, you can not speak about him that way at least not to me."

Dharthas: He laughs, "Ahh, so you still are loyal to him I see. You have answered the question I was expecting to be yes."
Dharthas: "So, tell me boy do you plan to stay in this bottle or find the child and set things right? You know as well as I she is alive. The little spy told you as much and told you who she was with. Well, boy what shall it be?

Dharkoth: A long moment passed with nothing being said, then finally thesound of a mug being tossed against the wall.

Dharthas: Laughter filled the darkness. "Boy you are so dramatic and full of passion. I was once like you. We have much to do, but first we much clean you up and get food into you. I will not be traveling like a drunken sod."

Dharkoth: The sound of a chair being moved and foot steps are the last thing that fills the darkness, then all is quiet

[Solivar is sitting on the edge of the Ravencrest bridge in Azshara, gazing the length of the ravine at the twilit beach and the misty purple ocean beyond.]

Dharkoth says: so thinking of jumping to solve the problem Solivar?

Solivar looks up from his contemplation of the drop just beyond his boot-tips, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

Dharkoth says: a strange place for a meeting, but I do remember that last time we needed to talk you picked this place. Do it hold something special for you?

Solivar says: It would not help, even if I did -- the fall is not enough to do me permanent harm.

Dharkoth says: So what do you wish to speak of? The boy is listening.

Solivar says: I chose this place because it is peaceful -- and because I have been here before.
Solivar slides his legs back over the edge of the bridge and rises slowly.

Dharkoth says: Oh, more plotting on your part?
Dharkoth says: Hold you tongue boy!

Solivar says: ...May I speak to Dharkoth directly?

Dharkoth says: As I said he can hear you.
Dharkoth says: You do not want to hear what he wants to say right now
Dharkoth says: say your piece

Solivar says: I will hear whatever words he wishes to speak, if he will hear mine.

Dharkoth says: say your piece he is listening

Solivar kneels before Dharkoth and bows his head, bending as close as he can to resting his forehead on the bridge at Dharkoth's feet, encumbered as he is by his armor.
Solivar says: I am sorry -- more than I can say in words alone. It was not my intent to cause you pain or to bring harm to you. I acted in haste...I failed to think.

Dharkoth says: yes we already know your a fool.
Dharkoth says: we already know you fell for her trap
Dharkoth says: I have told the boy this much
Dharkoth says: what the boy does not understand is why you would do such a thing to him
Dharkoth says: he was always loyal to you and more

Solivar says: I know.

Dharkoth says: no Solivar you do not know
Dharkoth says: you are not thinking
Dharkoth says: you act like the boy knows nothing that we know nothing
Dharkoth says: You do not trust me and that is understandable, but the boy you should never doubt

Solivar says: I do not doubt him. I have never doubted him.

Dharkoth says: that is not true at all
Dharkoth says: if you did not doubt the boy why did you side with his tormentor?
Dharkoth says: why could you not see what she was trying to do?

Solivar says: Dharkoth...I know that this is difficult to hear, particularly from me...

Dharkoth says: TELL ME SOLIVAR WHY DID YOU BETRAY ME?
Dharkoth says: boy hold your tongue

Solivar rises, his face utterly still and his eyes burning.
Solivar says: Andinthe must be permitted the chance to redeem herself, Dharkoth. To you. To this world.

Dharkoth says: you are a fool

Solivar says: She *must* be allowed this. I cannot deny her that.

Dharkoth says: you think she wishes redemption?
Dharkoth says: then you are doomed
Dharkoth says: you do not know her
Dharkoth says: you did not see her playing her part
Dharkoth says: there is a darkness in her a hatred in her
Dharkoth says: so you would turn your back on the boy for her chance of so called redemption

Solivar says: I think she wishes for more than vengeance. If she does not...I will deal with her when that time comes. There is a darkness in all of us who were once the slaves of your will, *my king.*

Dharkoth says: this is what you think of him?
Dharkoth says: I am not YOUR King

Solivar says: I would never turn my back on him. I thought *he* would know me better than that.

Dharkoth says: I am Arthas Menethil nothing more
Dharkoth says: you did turn your back on him and we all know it and seen it
Dharkoth says: she played you for a fool

Solivar says: Do you truly believe I would allow her to harm you, Dharkoth? After everything that has passed between us, to you truly believe that?
Solivar says: That I would not kill or die to defend you, even from her?

Dharkoth says: Tell the boy what you did when you seen him last
Dharkoth says: you did allow her to, when you sided with her infront of the boy as you did
Dharkoth says: and she knew it
Dharkoth says: so tell the boy Solivar
Dharkoth says: tell him why you would side with the one person who wants to destroy us
Dharkoth says: it is me she wishes to destroy and does not care that the boy dies with me
Dharkoth says: so tell the boy Solivar

Solivar says: Answer my question: does he believe I would not protect him? That I would not protect *you*?

Dharkoth says: Solivar I trusted you always, but you betrayed me.
Dharkoth says: you sided with her not caring of me
Dharkoth says: how could you do that to me?
Dharkoth says: a sob escapes from his lips, but is stopped quickly
Dharkoth says: answer the boy Solivar while I get him under control

Solivar says: I...failed you in that. I admit it. I was forced to weigh your pain against the danger to Baranthore's mind and soul, and what help Andinthe could be in saving him.

Dharkoth says: She is a big part of his condition

Solivar says: It was not a choice I made gladly. I cannot unmake it.

Dharkoth says: she could of told him that the child was alive
Dharkoth says: but she did not
Dharkoth says: you could of asked me
Dharkoth says: She was MY little spy
Dharkoth says: I twisted her to my will to do my bidding. To tear the Fist apart from with in, but you did not trust us to give you any information, instead you went to her
Dharkoth says: in your blind hope for her redemption
Dharkoth says: did she tell you what she did with the child?
Dharkoth says: or did she hold that from you?

Solivar says: I went to her because she knows more of Baranthore than nearly anyone else. They were comrades for years before Neshala was even born. Perhaps more. If anyone, living or undead, possesses the power to drag him back...it may be her.

Dharkoth says: you are a fool then

Solivar says: And it was not a matter of trust that kept me from calling on you. I did not wish to expose you to more danger than you had already chosen for yourself.

Dharkoth says: so instead you chose to go to the one who wants to destroy us
Dharkoth says: I have kept the boy safe and him me for 3 years without you

Solivar says: I accept that I may well be the greatest fool in this world. If the hope of another's redemption renders me foolish, it is a name I gladly wear. I hoped for *your* redemption, as well.

Dharkoth says: so her redemption was more important than the boy and what it would do to him?

Solivar says: *I did not say that.*

Dharkoth says: as for MY redemption I received that 2 years ago
Dharkoth says: you said that the hopes of anothers redemption may render you the greatest fool, then what does that make the boy?

Solivar 's eyes squeeze closed for a long moment.
Solivar says: Hopefully a fool with me.

Dharkoth says: that YOU would be willing to give our tormentor redemption over how the boy feels
Dharkoth says: no Solivar I will not be a fool with you or for you.
Dharkoth says: She plays you and she played you against the boy for that was how she knew she could hurt him

Solivar says: And is there no way I can undo that hurt?

Dharkoth says: as I told you before that is up to you not me or the boy

Solivar extends a hand, almost steadily.
Solivar says: Dharkoth...what do you desire of me?

Dharkoth says: what would a friend expect from a friend? What would a brother expect from a brother?
Dharkoth says: tell me Solivar do you know why I allowed the Baron to take me over you?
Dharkoth says: I would never betrayed you EVER!
Dharkoth says: answer the boy Solivar

Solivar says: What would you have me do, Dharkoth? Lay Andinthe's head at your feet?

Dharkoth says: It is not up to us Solivar. You are the one who hurt the boy.
Dharkoth says: as for her head we are done with that unless she proves herself to be what she is,
Dharkoth says: so answer the boy Solivar
Dharkoth says: tell him what a friend or brother would of done or should of done

Solivar says: Fall on my sword to prove my love and my sorrow? Let myself become the *thing* I was?

Dharkoth says: you already are becoming that.
Dharkoth says: I can smell the taint on you
Dharkoth says: falling on your sword would not fix what you did
Dharkoth says: and the boy would stop you anyhow

Solivar says: Would he?

Dharkoth says: he is still loyal to even tho you do not deserve it for what you did to him
Dharkoth says: Solivar he went to the Baron to save you
Dharkoth says: everything he has done is to save you

Solivar says: *I know that!*

Dharkoth says: he could of killed Andinthe many times, but did not for he knew she playing a part
Dharkoth says: yet she relished tormenting him and torturing him. She would of broke him, if I had not stopped it

Solivar says: And if I could protect him with my life or my death, I would do so and never hesitate. He knows that. Or he knew it.

Dharkoth says: now she wants her revenge on me and the boy is innocent in it all
Dharkoth says: no he does not right now cause you sided with HER!

Solivar says: I *will not* permit that to happen.

Dharkoth says: you are a blind fool right now
Dharkoth says: she twisted you to her will without even trying
Dharkoth says: how do you think you can stop her?

Solivar catches Dharkoth's hand in his own, grip almost painfully tight.
Solivar says: If you think me a puppet of Andinthe's will, you are mistaken.

Dharkoth says: you were
Dharkoth says: she twisted you with ease and YOU know it
Dharkoth says: you seen the look on her face and heard her words
Dharkoth says: she knew she had you
Dharkoth says: and she knew you walked in to it blind cause you thought she wanted to help

Solivar says: I love you, as my friend and my brother, and she has no hold on me stronger than that bond.

Dharkoth says: if she wanted to help why did she not tell you where the child was? Have you asked yourself that?

Solivar says: *This is not ABOUT Andinthe.*

Dharkoth says: you say you love the boy, then why did you betray him like you did?
Dharkoth says: this is about her and what you did to the boy
Dharkoth says: why can you not see how she manipulated you to hurt him?
Dharkoth says: she knew this was her way to hurt him and try to weaken us

Solivar says: I have told you why. I do not doubt she took pleasure in his pain. Her soul is twisted in such a way.

Dharkoth says: so why do you say this is not about her and what you did to the boy?
Dharkoth says: tell us what you think this is about then?
Dharkoth says: enlighten us

Solivar says: This is not about her. This is about you and I, Dharkoth, and how I can regain your trust, how I can repair the pain I have caused you. *What do you want from me?*

Dharkoth says: Answer this Solivar has the boy ever asked anything of you ever?

Solivar says: He asked for my help.

Dharkoth says: and you gave it the best you could. I had him and nothing could change that
Dharkoth says: no one could help him from that, but you tried
Dharkoth says: he had nothing when he meet you, but then he found family
Dharkoth says: he protected you for you were the weak one Solivar and I made sure to tell him. I told him all about my Mercy
Dharkoth says: thinking it would hurt him, but he did not care it only made him stronger

Solivar says: That is what I am asking of him now. *Help me.* Help me to know what I must do. Please. I am not...human enough any longer to do this alone.

Dharkoth says: I am the one keeping the boy at bay. I do not trust you, for you so easily betrayed him. I WILL NOT ALLOW ANYONE TO HURT THE BOY NOW. DO YOU UNDERSTAND ME?
Dharkoth says: the boy showed me what I was
Dharkoth says: the boy forgave me of all people in this world he had no reason to do that, but he did
Dharkoth says: he made me understand some of what i was the sword did to me
Dharkoth says: I was good once Solivar

Solivar says: ....I know.

Dharkoth says: I was a man once who loved, cared, had feelings, and wanted more
Dharkoth says: he made me see that
Dharkoth says: he saved me

Solivar says: I know how it is that you feel. More than you can know.

Dharkoth says: then you know why this hurts him so
Dharkoth says: and you also know why I will protect him

Solivar says: He has been as dear to me -- he reminded me...and made me believe...that I was once better than what I am now.
Solivar says: We are not at cross purposes in that. You know that.

Dharkoth says: you are the one who has to earn my trust now Solivar

Solivar says: Perhaps it is you who should think on what you want from me, then.

Dharkoth says: you do that and you prove to the boy that he is once again what he thought he was to you
Dharkoth says: No, this is your problem to solve

Solivar says: ...He has never been less to me.

Dharkoth says: think on this though Solivar if you think Andinthe wants to redeem herself all she had to do was tell you where the child was, but she did not
Dharkoth says: why?

Solivar says: ...I will think on it. For now, though, I must go. My duty to our brothers calls me.

Dharkoth says: then lead on oh fearless leader
Dharkoth says: for I promised the boy I would keep an eye on you

Solivar says: We are meeting in the Crossroads.

[Solivar and Dharkoth depart for a dusty little town in the dusty little middle of nowhere...]

Shaloro sleeps soundlessly, curled into a massive hairy ball.

Jarrand says: Ears.
Jarrand says: Mercy.
Jarrand greets you warmly.

Dharkoth says: Greetings to you Windspeaker

Jarrand looks at Dharkoth.
Jarrand says: So, who have you brought with you tonight?

Dharkoth says: Look closely Windspeaker the boy is there

Jarrand says: Good.
Jarrand says: Two spirits in one body never agrees for long though.

Solivar inclines his head slightly in greeting to both Jarrand and Meton, and casts a glance over his shoulder at the slumbering tauren.

Dharkoth says: a very slight and almost unnoticeable change comes over him

Jarrand nods at Dharkoth.

Dharkoth says: Greetings to you Jarrand
Dharkoth bows down graciously.

Jarrand says: So, the winds are blowing us North I hear.

Solivar says: It seems that way, yes.

Shaloro stirs up and slowly rises, his eyes focused on the bar at the end of the room.
Shaloro raises a drink in the air before chugging it down. Cheers!

Jarrand says: Funny, who it is that rides with us there.
Jarrand says: Here for a drink?

Dharkoth says: the winds blow in strange direction Windspeaker and some not to alls liking

Shaloro says: And a rest. Long travels lay at my feet, and behind my body.

Solivar says: ...There is little enough to like in this entire situation.

Jarrand says: Aye. Best to rest when you can.

Solivar says: I thank you for joining us this evening, Windspeaker. I would not have called you from your duties without great need.

Dharkoth says: Yes, there is great need for your skills

Jarrand says: Oh...?

Solivar says: Indeed.

Dharkoth says: yes Solivar is in need of your skills

Solivar says: ...I hope no one is offended if I make myself more comfortable.

Jarrand says: The days are hot and the nights long. No one would begrudge you a moment of comfort.

Solivar lowers himself to the floor. Under closer examintion, he has the look about him of someone being held up by the seams in his armor.

Meton says: Not at all. Think I'll do the same.

Shaloro slides several coins over the table and gathers up several large canteens, probably filled with water, his eyes drifting over to the group in the center of the Inn.

Solivar says: I suspect that news of our journey to Northrend has already made the rounds....

Meton leans back on the table.

Jarrand says: A wise man doesn't say no to rest when needed.
Jarrand says: I've heard of the search.

Solivar says: What we found there was...disturbing...at several levels.
Solivar says: We met with our old friend Cathrinia -- she is working with the Reliquary now. Have you heard of them?

Jarrand clearly states, NO.
Jarrand says: Another group within the Horde?

Shaloro plops himself down onto the bed with a thud.

Solivar says: They are scholars -- specialists in matters of antiquity. They serve the Horde in much the same way that the Explorers' League serves the Alliance. Mostly when it is convenient for them to do so.

Dharkoth says: yes I have, I have been on some of there dig sites

Jarrand says: The Blood Elf that finds himself in Grommash Hold?

Solivar says: I have not yet had cause to call upon Grommash Hold. ::dryly:: But it is entirely possible if the new Warchief finds some value in their scholarship.

Dharkoth says: he will not

Jarrand says: Then they are likely of little use to him.

Dharkoth says: they are not the type that he sees useful

Jarrand says: What makes them so important to us?

Solivar says: It is equally possible that Baranthore may have received something of value from them. An artifact called the Highborne mirror of souls.

Dharkoth says: you mean this?
Dharkoth holds out his own mirror for them to see

Jarrand says: Looks old.

Dharkoth says: it is

Jarrand says: Highborne you say?

Dharkoth says: yes

Solivar blinks.

Dharkoth says: High elf

Solivar says: Yes. Dharkoth...what does the mirror *do*?

Dharkoth says: I used it once

Jarrand says: And what did you find in its reflection?

Dharkoth says: It is not something I would use here
Dharkoth says: some would not like the reflection they see
Dharkoth says: it shows me
Dharkoth says: strange thing to see
Dharkoth says: I forgot what I looked like

Meton says: So what does it do?

Solivar 's mouth smooths into a thin line.

Meton says: Sees your insides? Your future? Past?

Dharkoth says: for myself it showed that part of me that is inside

Jarrand says: So what does that say, if the Paladin looked into his as well?

Meton says: MInd if I take a look at it?

Dharkoth says: if you like

Meton stands up off of the table.

Dharkoth hands the mirror to Meton

Meton says: Thanks.

Solivar says: Cathrinia told us that the mirror allowed its user to look back on their past...to examine their actions from a different perspective.

Meton says: Here I go...
Meton looks deeply into the mirror.

Dharkoth says: that I did not see
Dharkoth says: I only seen that which is inside me

Solivar says: Meton -- be careful -- !

Jarrand lets out a hearty chuckle.

Meton 's eyes open up a bit wider for a moment but then he begins to chuckle.

Dharkoth says: fear not Solivar it is attuned to me and me only

Meton says: Heh...so that's how it ends...

Jarrand says: One who is followed by as many ghosts as he has little to worry from a mirror.

Meton says: Thanks.

Dharkoth says: the mind plays such tricks on us all

Meton hands Dharkoth back the mirror.
Meton says: That answered a question of mine.

Dharkoth takes the mirror back

Deselynian waves.

Jarrand hails Deselynian.

Solivar inclines his head in greeting.

Dharkoth bows before Deselynian.

Jarrand says: So...you think it the same mirror?

Deselynian says: So what have i missed im sorry im late. had some buisnees to discuss.

Dharkoth says: they are all a piece of it

Jarrand says: Ahh. And we just come by two of those pieces?

Dharkoth says: I think from what I know of it. They attune themselves to the one who finds them, but maybe that is only this piece

Solivar says: Greetings, sister. We were just discussing the Highborne mirror of souls and its nature....
Solivar says: ...Speaking of the pieces....
Solivar says: ...We may have found the fragments of one being used in the process of enacting an antique Highborne enchantment....on a knife....
Solivar says: I gave one of the pieces I found to Cathrinia....

Deselynian says: well that sound fun.
Deselynian lets out a hearty chuckle.

Dharkoth says: a fragment?

Solivar extracts a tiny silver box, its surface crawling with interlocking runic patterns of containment, from his belt.

Jarrand looks curiously at the box.

Solivar says: ...And I kept one to be examined by...a second party.
Solivar says: I fear I do not entirely trust the gracious lady to share everything she might know with us.

Dharkoth says: why do you say that?

Solivar works the box's arcane latch and slides open the lid, revealing a paper-thin sliver of dark glass.

Jarrand says: Probably the usual reasons...trust has to be earned and it's a precious commodity.
Jarrand says: Like gems for some.

Dharkoth says: have you handled it much?
Dharkoth says: well put Windspeaker
Dharkoth looks at Solivar

Jarrand says: We all know about betrayals...

Dharkoth says: some more than others

Deselynian says: betrayal is for the weak minded. If you betray someone you should either be getting paid a hell of alot or just have a vendetta not due to a mirror.

Jarrand says: Aye.

Dharkoth says: how interesting a thought Lady

Deselynian says: its my opinion anyway everyone has one.
Deselynian says: like pie i love pie

Dharkoth says: oh we all do, some just do not listen to them sometimes

Deselynian says: very true.

Dharkoth again looks at Solivar
Meton says: ...People actually listen to pie?
Meton smiles.

Dharkoth says: a sense of humor now Meton

Deselynian says: yes i listen to the pie it tells me to kill people sometimes mainly scarlet paladins but that just might be a grudge.

Meton says: Was your pie fruit based or creme based?

Deselynian says: creamy fruit based yay apple pie

Dharkoth shakes his head

Meton says: Ooooh...those hybrid kinds are vengeful, spiteful bastards.

Solivar says: .....

Meton says: Tell ya to kill anything really.

Solivar says: ...And this is why I love you all.
Solivar smiles wryly.

Jarrand says: Over Azeroth's pastries?

Solivar says: But to answer your question: no, I did not handle it much. I encased it as quickly as was practical.
Solivar says: No, your *editorials* on Azeroth's pastries.

Deselynian says: now about this mirror how big is it supposed to be?

Jarrand says: I've not yet had chance to give voice to my thoughts on them...but yes, about the mirror.

Dharkoth says: that is a good thing the last thing you need is more taint on you

Solivar says: ....Cathrinia examined me with the powers at her command and detected no taint. Or so she said.

Dharkoth says: so she said

Meton says: Yes...she was having a hard time controlling the shadow.

Dharkoth says: you stink of it Solivar

Meton says: She feigned having any knowledge of it when I brought it to attention.

Solivar 's tone is utterly neutral, his face completely expressionless.

Jarrand says: There's the trust not earned...

Dharkoth says: Windspeaker do you not see it as well?

Meton says: Gave me quite the dirty look too.

Jarrand says: I see nothing, Ears.

Dharkoth says: it is there

Solivar says: Windspeaker...are you absolutely certain?

Dharkoth says: look at him now, fighting for control

Shaloro slowly rises again, a large sack filled with canteens over his shoulder. He also grabs a large antique wooden staff engraved with markings and familiar glass shards held by strings. Feathers and other trinkets are also attached.

Jarrand says: Could be. Seeing nothing and being nothing aren't the same bird.

Meton looks at Solivar looking for what Dharkoth sees.

Shaloro gathers up several more sacks of various goods and then head towards the door, dropping acorns onto the ground as he heads out.

Dharkoth says: Windspeaker do you know the Tauren?

Shaloro thanks Innkeeper Boorand Plainswind.
Shaloro bows before Innkeeper Boorand Plainswind.

Jarrand says: You've spilled your seeds, Tauren.

Shaloro glances up at Jarrand.

Jarrand says: We've not met before today. But I thought it should be today that we meet.

Shaloro says: They shall heal the earth in my passing, a task we should look to, especially when heroes, or would be heroes, such as yourself sink into the doings of the Old Gods.

Dharkoth says: what is that ?

Solivar looks, point in fact, more weary than Meton -- or anyone else -- has seen before this, even in the midst of events in Northrend.

Shaloro points to the mirror fragment in Dharkoth's hands.

Deselynian says: So if Solivar is fighting for control i believe we can test that theory. If he is truly tainted from at what i can gather if we have an honorable duel he would have to visibly fight not to strike a killing blow.

Dharkoth says: What do you know of the old ones?

Meton says: Solivar, perhaps you should take a few days off.

Shaloro says: The Old Gods left many trinkets and tokens behind, littered with tainted energies that seep into the hearts and minds of the weak.

Jarrand says: Bloodshed amongst brothers leads to little good.

Shaloro says: The Highbourne were no exeption to the gifts of the Old Gods.

Dharkoth says: yes they have, but what do you know of this?

Solivar says: Lady...I have taken a vow to raise no weapon against a comrade in arms. I will not fight you.

Shaloro says: In my many travels and countless years on this world, I have seen many artifacts, and have worked through the Earth Mother to cleanse them of their taint.

Deselynian says: i understand that Jarrand but bloodshed with terms is better then senseless violence because of the taint.

Jarrand says: You may be right, but you ask a line to be drawn in water.

Deselynian nods

Dharkoth says: who you have seen these things and their effects?

Deselynian says: i agree its a blurry line but its a line none the less. and thats the best we can really get right now.

Jarrand says: And if you or Solivar overstep the line?

Deselynian says: we have you.
Deselynian lets out a hearty chuckle.

Shaloro looks at Dharkoth.

Jarrand says: You only have a petitioner. I'm not one who demands the spirits.

Shaloro says: Yes, I have, and I have seen the toll it takes on those unprepared to face the power imbued in them.

Dharkoth says: so tell me Tauren what do you see among us now?

Deselynian says: i believe the spirits would agree on this topic of testing . more then letting the taint fully take another.
Deselynian says: but im not really good with them thats your call.

Jarrand says: Have you looked outside lately? The spirits have their own plans....

Dharkoth says: I do not think that testing weapons with the two of you would be a good thing, especially for Solivar, since he does not seem to have the control he once did

Deselynian says: Only because Deathwing is a raving cult driven mad man.

Shaloro says: I see troubled souls, lost in their effort to come to closure with their past.
Shaloro says: No heroes, no bravery, only sheer madness.

Jarrand says: Madness?

Shaloro says: Madness,
Shaloro says: You all fail to see the truth.

Dharkoth gives a slight laugh

Solivar 's tone lowers the local air temperature forty degrees.
Solivar says: As I said, lady...I have taken vows. I will not fight you, no matter how strong your desire to test my self-control.

Dharkoth says: some of us see it all too well Tauren

Shaloro laughs.

Deselynian says: I just want to collect more peices before the culty thing or whatever gets this ritual done.

Shaloro says: If you think so young one, I wish you a quick death along your journey, for the masters you provoke now, will show you no such end.
Shaloro bows down graciously.

Dharkoth says: Solivar, control

Shaloro hands Dharkoth an acorn, and walks out the door.

Jarrand says: We know who has one, I believe?

Deselynian says: i understand Solivar and i respect that but why stand to voice such an opinion of your views we are all friends here no need to get heated up.

Dharkoth says: young one Tauren? I will take that as an compliment

Solivar takes a deep breath, a flicker of something close to pain crossing his face.

Meton says: Heh, if Dharkoth's master was an Old One I think we would be fine and dandy about now.

Solivar says: I am not angry. I am concerned that Dharkoth will expose himself unnecessarily to danger.
Solivar rubs at his eyes with the heel of one hand.

Deselynian says: I understand that but you do need to calm a bit strong emotions will make the taint grow faster if it does reside inside you
Deselynian says: cause it will use them against you.

Jarrand says: Then we find a way to heal him.

Meton says: For now Solivar, go home and rest.
Meton says: You look like you can barely stand.

Solivar says: ....I am not the person in danger here. Baranthore is lost somewhere in Northrend, perhaps under the influence of this...thing.

Meton says: No, but being as you are now will put the rest of us in more danger in a tight spot.

Jarrand says: You will need help. Or the earth will no longer be able to hold you up.

Deselynian says: either under the influence of this thing or he who sits up on an icy chair.
Deselynian says: or even both
Deselynian says: so we have 2 shards total now?

Jarrand says: We have one. Our lost brother has another.

Solivar’s gaze slides around the circle. When he finally speaks, his voice is barely above the sound of the braziers' crackling flames.

Deselynian says: i count that as 2 in "our" possesion so where are we finding them mainly?

Solivar says: I...am not entirely certain that 'rest' is a wise thing for me to have just now.

Meton says: And falling apart out there is?

Solivar says: Something...very strange happened while I was in Northrend. After we parted, I went to investigate the Explorers' dig site on the coast of the Fjord....

Jarrand says: And?

Solivar says: Something...happened.

Deselynian says: Northrend...so many memories...

Meton says: Which was?

Deselynian says: So fjord and where did our brother find the one he is holding?

Solivar says: I remember landing at Zeramas, and finding Baranthore there. He was sick. Physically ill -- it should not be possible for him to *be* ill.

Jarrand says: Troublesome

Solivar says: He was...incoherent. Almost babbling. He spoke of a master who called to him from below, whom he claimed had sent the mirror to him.

Jarrand says: No doubt below the waters themselves...perhaps through the earth as well?

Solivar says: He said it showed him the truth -- our deaths, and the death of this world.

Deselynian says: Deepholm?
2/3 22:27:44.249 Dharkoth says: excuse me Solivar, Windspeaker you should have a word with the Tauren

Jarrand says: Today was a good day to meet him.
Jarrand nods at Dharkoth.

Dharkoth says: possibly

Deselynian says: So do we know how our brother actually got his peice

Dharkoth says: Solivar go speak with the Tauren

Solivar says: And then he flung himself off the side of Zeramas. That was when I woke up.

Dharkoth says: it is for your good that you do

Meton says: So it was all a dream?
Meton says: Guess that explains why you waited so long to say anything.

Solivar says: I do not sleep. I do not *require* sleep. *I never sleep.*
Solivar says: But I was *dreaming.*

Deselynian says: either that or a vission.

Solivar says: It was...extremely unsettling.

Meton says: Is this why you don't want to rest?

Shaloro says: I find little personal interest in your friend's plight, but if there is knowledge I have to aid, then perhaps it demands a moment of my time.
Shaloro bows before you.
Shaloro says: Nechi, death knight.

Solivar bows from the neck.

Dharkoth says: Lady do not push Solivar

Solivar says: Greetings, brother of the Horde.

Shaloro shakes his head.

Dharkoth says: he is not like he use to be

Shaloro says: Child of the Earth Mother.

Deselynian says: I am not trying to im just actually trying for information this time i dont know much about this mirror, and how so?

Shaloro says: There is little for me in this "Horde".

Dharkoth says: very well, but Solivar is weak right now in many ways

Solivar nods slightly.
Solivar says: As you wish.

Dharkoth says: Mercy is closer now that ever

Deselynian says: I will try not to push to hard then dont need him falling over due to the force.

Shaloro says: From what your friend tells me of your plight, I believe there may be a way to, if not only for a moment, allow yourself to gain control over yourself.

Dharkoth says: Meton you see this too do you not?

Jarrand says: And how does he do that?

Solivar says: I do not know that I *have* a plight, brother. But I will listen to your wisdom nonetheless.

Deselynian says: I only have one question and that is where did Baranthore get his peice of mirror or, do we not know

Shaloro says: There is a pool to the south west, once plagued by the Nightmare within the Emerald Dream... now it is empowered by the overgrowth, and may provide you clarity, to see what is to be done.

Deselynian says: Safe to assume close to where Solivar got his then ill make note of northrend

Jarrand says: The waters may indeed help.
Jarrand says: You speak with some truth, perhaps.

Dharkoth says: I found mine near Dire maul

Shaloro says: If without truth, why speak at all brother?

Solivar glances between the two.

Deselynian says: thanks for blowing my idea out of the water dhark very nice of you

Jarrand says: Hasn't stopped that many people.

Deselynian lets out a hearty chuckle.

Jarrand laughs.

Shaloro laughs.

Solivar says: I am....

Dharkoth says: what?

Solivar stops, considers how best to phrase what he wants to say, and continues on without.

Shaloro looks up to the wind as it shifts, the glass shards on his staff clinking together in the breeze.

Deselynian says: i was thinking we could limit it to a contenent but seems not

Solivar says: Would your people not find such a thing...offensive?

Deselynian says: I say we try the badlands then for another peice if we can alot of diging and old relics there.

Dharkoth says: they can be found I am guessing at any High Elf dig site

Shaloro says: The Earth Mother provides for all. We may be led to the purist of water, the finest of grains and the most humble of beings, but what action we take, is never dictated to us; that is for our own minds to decide.
Shaloro says: Whether you use the waters for clarity, or for another purpose, is a decision you must make. No one holds ownership over that which is provided to us.

Deselynian says: check the ruins in stone talon then we could do that in a few hours if we work on it now.

Solivar says: It is...not that I would use them for some ill purpose.

Shaloro holds up his hand as if to silence the elf.

Dharkoth says: I have that effect on many

Shaloro says: No one holds ownership over that which is provided. You need not explain yourself to anyone.
Shaloro says: Do as you will, and regret no action.

Jarrand says: We speak of mirrors...and I think he explains to his reflection as much as you.

Solivar says: I am concerned that, if I am tainted in some way that I cannot perceive, that I might spread it there. And the essence of my own being is...unclean.

Shaloro says: The Earth Mother would not let such a simple taint filter into the purest waters in these lands.
Shaloro says: If any taint dives into the pools, the overgrowth would suffocate it.

Solivar hesitates fractionally, then bows from the neck.
Solivar says: I thank you for your advice, brother.

Shaloro bows down graciously.
Shaloro says: I travel south now, to the overgrowth. I pray to the Earth Mother that you find your way there as well.

Deselynian says: so These mirror shards do we have any idea how many there are?

Solivar says: I thank you, brother. Go carefully.

Shaloro plants his staff into the ground, clcearly to support himself in his old age.
Shaloro bows down graciously.

Solivar bows deeply.

Dharkoth says: the dig sites could hold that and more that are tainted if the Tauren is correct

Shaloro says: Awakeeahmenalo, death knight.

Jarrand looks at you.
Jarrand says: Do you now go?

Dharkoth says: no, but it takes many to make it

Deselynian says: the only thing i found at night elf dig sites right now is a few clothing peices and a comb or 2 so nothing from my end yet

Dharkoth says: it took me a long time of digging to find this one

Solivar says: ...I...think it may be the best way to answer that question.

Deselynian says: well on ce we are done our goal tonight ill see if i can get one from stone talon

Dharkoth says: So Solivar did you find the chat with the Tauren interesting?

Solivar says: I did.

Jarrand says: And perhaps it is time your feet guided you on your path there, Mercy.

Dharkoth says: be careful what you ask for Lady
Dharkoth says: That is not Mercy Windspeaker

Solivar says: ...Yes.

Jarrand says: You are one to talk.

Deselynian says: ill cary a box if i find anything reflective i wont touch it

Dharkoth says: I will not of sacrificed what I did for Mercy to be back do you ALL understand me!

Solivar says: Dharkoth....

Deselynian says: Dhark calm down or ill beat you with a trout. we need to focus not get mad at each other.

Solivar says: ...The lady is correct. We must keep our focus.

Dharkoth says: You do not know me or what I went thru, or what he put me thru, so do not tell me to focus
Dharkoth says: Hold your tongue boy, now is not the time for this

Jarrand says: Ears, I know whispers of what you've gone through. But even you confuse me.

Dharkoth says: Windpeaker the boy has been thru hell is that not enough and most of it was my doing

Jarrand says: And yet you are still here.

Deselynian says: Well then stop worrying about the past didnt the druid just say to stop looking at the past and move foward

Dharkoth looks around nervously

Solivar says: No. He said that the vision pool south of here may give me clarity.

Dharkoth says: was the ground shaking a moment ago?

Jarrand says: Something I think we all need.

Deselynian says: Let us go then

Solivar says: I agree.

Jarrand says: The ground shaking...somewhere yes. Here, I doubt it.

Deselynian says: and yes Dhark it did

Solivar takes a bone whistle between his teeth and calls his gryphon.

Jarrand says: Overgrowth....shouldn't be difficult to find.

[The group travels by ground and air to the fringes of the Overgrowth, near the entrance to the caverns that lie beneath the northern Barrens, once used by the kaldorei druids as one of their resting places. Pure pools of water, welling up from beneath the surface of the savannah, lie there, fringed in tall trees and carpets of fern.]

Jarrand says: So, you are prepared for what you will see?

Deselynian says: Hello

Shaloro bows down graciously.

Solivar says: ...No.
Solivar bows from the shoulders.

Shaloro says: We do meet again, and it seems that my old legs take me along my path sooner.

Jarrand says: So it is.

Solivar says: May I beg your advice in this matter, brother?

Shaloro says: In what matter child?
Shaloro kneels down.

Solivar says: What...should I do?

Shaloro stands and seem to walk out onto the water.
Shaloro says: Come.

Solivar hestitates for a moment, then fallows, his footsteps sending ripples across the surface of the water.

Shaloro says: Let the water's power wash over you, sink into it's depths, breath in the answers you seek.

[The water seems to reach up and draw Solivar down into its depths.]

Shaloro closes his eyes and the waters around you begin to churn.

Jarrand says: So, now we wait.

Solivar allows the visions to pass over and through him, trying to find the one thing he seeks...the moment of clarity that will answer that question...

Deselynian pulls jarrands leg as a joke dragging him under with her.

Jarrand says: Water can be as solid as earth, if you ask it to be.
Jarrand chuckles at Deselynian.

Deselynian says: oh be quiet and get in the water is nice

Jarrand lets out a long, drawn-out sigh.
Jarrand says: That it is, but it is not ours tonight.
Jarrand looks at you.

Solivar crawls out along the bank, coughing water out of his lungs...

Deselynian gets dressed again

Jarrand says: Brother?

Shaloro shakes himself dry, his long mane shaking out more water than there was in the pool.
Shaloro looks down at Solivar.

Solivar says: ....The taint is real.

Dharkoth says: Have I not been telling you this? Again you do not listen

Solivar says: Baranthore's knife. At the Enclave.

Jarrand says: It cuts more than flesh?

Shaloro slowly lowers himself to the ground, clearly exausted in his old age.

Solivar spits out another mouthful of water, and runs his fingers over his clenched-shut eyes.
Solivar says: Yes. I...feel it now.
Solivar says: ...Cathrinia...had the same weapon.

Jarrand frowns.

Dharkoth places a hand on Solivar's shoulder. "I told you and now you will listen to me once again?"

Meton says: I knew something was amiss about that elf.

Solivar pushes himself to his feet.

Dharkoth says: You say that you found that shard below and a knife?

Solivar gazes evenly over his shoulder at Dharkoth.

Dharkoth says: and that she carried a dagger like his?

Solivar says: I have always listened to you. And, yes...more mirror shards and a knife. Whoever was working the enchantment...Vrykul sorcerers, Reliquary agents...was using pieces of the mirror of souls as a medium for their magic.
Solivar says: Yes, she did.

Jarrand says: And each of them act as agents of this plan?

Dharkoth says: they are trying to make them it seems, but for what purpose?

Solivar says: I do not know if Cathrinia is a willing accomplice or a pawn.

Dharkoth says: it seems that possibly more could be under the influence that was expected

Shaloro stands slowly.

Solivar says: Baranthore...is manifestly not in his right mind.

Deselynian says: Dagger jagged edge shorter hilt then most curved slightly?

Jarrand agrees with you.

Shaloro says: Travelers, you seem to be involved in your own adventure, one that is not of my path. I wish you good luck on your path, and I hope these pools have granted you to insight that you sought.
Shaloro bows down graciously.
Shaloro says: I have my own path to follow now.

Solivar says: I am not certain if the design is uniform. Cathrinia called it a blade of Perdition -- a quel'dorei weapon of old, very few of which remain.

Deselynian says: Goodbye Druid and have your spirits guide you well

Dharkoth says: we will meet again Tauren

Solivar says: I thank you for your help, brother.

Jarrand says: As do we all, perhaps ours will pass again.

Dharkoth bows before Shaloro.

Meton nods at Shaloro.

Shaloro gathers up the numerous sacks of goods and canteens, clearly weighing his old body down more than it should, and begins off through the folliage.

Dharkoth says: thank you for opening his eyes
Dharkoth says: so they are now working thru the artifacts as well as creating those blades it seems

Deselynian says: i belive a dagger such as that was found recently over by the Blackfathom deeps.
Deselynian says: my source is good but not always one hundred percent accurate more like 80%

Solivar half-wraps an arm around his mid-section, one hand laying over the place, low in the abdomen, where he was stabbed, his gaze fixed on absolutely nothing.

Deselynian says: if you would like dhark you and me could check it out if a few.

Dharkoth grabs hold of Solivar's shoulder and gives it a hard squeeze. Solivar concentrate

Jarrand says: We will need to find a path to cleansing...perhaps finding a similar weapon would aid us?

Deselynian says: reverse the enchantment?

Dharkoth says: we could

Solivar takes an unsteady breath and releases it without speaking.

Deselynian says: wait a second the only person i know that could is currently walking around northrend.

Dharkoth says: Do not I repeat do not give in to this Solivar. I did not sacrifice all that I did for him to come back, do you hear me?

Solivar says: ...I hear you.

Dharkoth says: what do you mean Lady?

Deselynian says: If we get the knife the only person i know capeable of reversing an enchantment so old is Baranthore

Dharkoth says: what?

Solivar rests his face in his hands for a moment, his shoulders trembling slightly.

Deselynian says: pay attention more dhark if we do find the knife in black fathom we could possibly reverse any evil/tainted enchantments on it but to do that we need someone who is capable of doing such a task

Jarrand says: And as fates would have it, you know one capable of such?

Meton says: Solivar?

Solivar says: I...think I would like to be alone for a moment.

Dharkoth says: Meton get him some place safe and keep him there

Deselynian says: Yes but he currently walks around northrend with a shard of the mirror its one of those things i found out about Baran awhile ago

Meton says: That's not a good idea Solivar.

Jarrand nods at you.
Jarrand says: We were not there to see what he did, Death Knight.

Dharkoth says: yes I know he has it, but I thought you were speaking of someone there who can fix it?

Deselynian says: he could fix it if we could actually get him to listen

Solivar says: She is saying that Baranthore may be the only enchanter skilled enough to undo his own work.

Dharkoth says: I agree with you Meton, Solivar now is not the time for being alone

Deselynian says: Thank you Solivar

Solivar tries not to laugh *too* hysterically at that thought, and fails miserably.

Meton says: Yes, Solivar. We should get you out of here.

Dharkoth says: Stop it Solivar!

Solivar says: Acherus, then. If nothing else...we should warn the Highlord.

Jarrand says: You coddle the man. It is up to him to decide his path.

Dharkoth says: no it is not
Dharkoth says: I did not sacrifice what I have for him to decide his own path right now. You do not know Mercy as i do Windspeaker

Jarrand says: No, I do not.

Deselynian says: well while you all decide what to do with Solivar ill be making my way to look for this dagger we need someone to keep us on track even if i have to do it myself

Solivar says: If the taint cannot be purged, it is not only our brotherhood that would be endangered. And the Ebon Blade...may be of some assistance to you, if I cannot.

Dharkoth says: then do not tell me to let him chose his own path


Meton says: Dharkoth, Jarrand, go with her.
Meton says: I'll stay with Solivar.

Solivar nods slightly, and begins the gate-calling.

Dharkoth says: so be it

[Solivar and Meton depart for the Ebon Hold...]