#Khanaros

[mask131]

French fantasy: The five "Great Old Ones"

A follow-up to the "Children of Orpheus and Melusine" post

Here are the five “pioneers” of fantasy in French literature, according to A. F. Ruaud: Michel Grimaud’s Malakansâr ; Francis Berthelot’s Kanaor ; Isabelle Hausser’s Célubée ;  Michel Pagel’s Les Flammes de la nuit ; dans Jean-Marc Ligny’s La Mort peut danser.

(And here I will translate Ruaud’s text, not just recap it) [Edit: The translation might be rough, I was tired when doing it]

I)

More than a novel, Malakansâr (1980) is a journey, a long quest of absolute. It is does not have a mystico-religious conception of the world, but it rather offers a meditation about interiority and personal evolution. To do so, the tale is willingly contemplative in tone. The settings, sumptuously described, are extremely important, the rhythm is of a slowness matching the low technology level of this world, and it all invites to “turn upon oneself”. It is not a static text however: there are adventures and twists, new discoveries and dangers keep appearing on the path of our three heroes. But we are not in an actual adventure novel: far from the generic attempts of many fantasy beginners, Michel Grimaud, an old man of literature, finds back the alchemy practiced by authors such as Jean Giono, and uses it to make his tale as poetic as original.

Silo le Do has always been a carefree boy refusing conventions: young man of upper class, he is born in the town of Sétil, that claims itself the “city of science” but that in truth is all about bourgeoisie and commerce. Silo disdains as much his parents, born in the prejudice of high society, as his companions, coming from the sordid depths of the city. One evening, a double-revelation completely flips his life over, and changes radically the orientation of his existence: at first, he hears a song in a tavern, the testimony of a poetess recalling the vision of a fabulous city, built by gods and unreachable to mankind. Malakansâr! A legend that Silo finds himself full of desire for. It was the first revelation ; then, as he reaches adulthood, his family rejects him, exhausted by his misbehavior. Disgusted with everything and completely lost, Silo escapes the city with for sole company the beautiful slave Mowo, that had just been offered to Silo as a gift.

Meanwhile, Glévian is a young fisherman living in the enormous swamps of the One Hundred Thousand Lands. For him, the “revelation” will come from a small statue discovered in the entrails of a water-wolf. A small statue made of white stone – a material unknown in his land, a material surrounded by legends, a material worth a fortune. Rather than sell the statue and thus making a career for himself, Glévian starts a quest in search of the model the statue was carved after. Glévian and Silo will encounter each other, of course, and three travelers will have to overcome their prejudice, their racial and social differences, in order to go to travel, from the continent of the Evening Lands to the one of the Morning Lands, in order to, maybe, one day, reach their dream.

This novel exists outside of the norms and outside of its era – it fakes a simplicity, and has an admirable lyricism. Malakansâr only has one flaw: the desire to ultimately bring itself back into the cradle of science-fiction, by giving a very unsatisfying conclusion annihilating the marvelous. But it doesn’t care in the end, since before this forced conclusion, it is the seduction of the magic and wonders that fully rules, helped by an admirable stylistic work – rarely the language will be as celebrated as in this work.

II)

A great stylistic care can also be found in Francis Berthelot’s Khanaor (1983). It is a shining, shimmering fable about a society learning harmony. Khanaro, an Atlantis-like island spared from the Christian dogma, is filled with wonders that also come from outside of the Anglo-Saxon tradition: Berthelot’s work rather finds its roots among Juline Gracq, André Pieyre, Mandiargues or Frédérick Tristan.

An official recap of the story goes as such: “Because the rivers are drying up, the wizard-queen of Aquimeur, Mervine, must sacrifice the wizards of Ardamance. Because the collectors of lava-snow of Ardamance are taking his country hostage, Leuthiag, the king of Goldèbe, must ally himself to Mervine. Because the people fear her, Mervine tries to kill Norenn, who was just trying to heal those around her. Sigrid, her grand-daughter, Kurt, the plant-charmer, Raïleh, Judith, l’Ancerf, Orchale and her father – they will all be absorbed against their will by this ruthless fate, under the pen of Francis Berthelot. But soon despair fades away… Will Khanaor be saved?”

III)

Célubée (1986), under-titled “Novel of legendary times”, was the first novel published by Isabelle Hausser, which afterward never returned to the lands of fantasy, as if she had stumbled upon them by accident. Presented as a tale dictated to a scribe by a young woman, the servant of a princess, this enormous novel is not a historical fiction like so many others: if there are strong reminiscences of Antiquity, this Kingdom and this City with very neutral names do not evoke any clear historical era. Coelia’s tale is interwoven with another one, told by the poet Anticléridès, a tale at first about his past life, then about the life of another country, far older than the Kingdom, the titular Célubée, and we do not know if the poet actually invented this other land, or if he truly dug it up from unreadable archives. The reality of the second tale gains more solidity page after day, and the maybe-myth of Célubée slowly invades the reality of the Kingdom.

A meditation upon myths and power, this novel is also an entertaining double-adventure tale; as well as a strange research upon the links that two legends can form between each other. A fascinating and mind-turning embedding of tales, Célubée uses its shining prose to modernize the charms of a classic such as Basile’s Tale of Tales.

When Hausser talked of her work in the year 2000, she said: “By writing Célubée, fifteen years ago, I wanted to write an imaginary story about the creation of the world and of human society. Having read novels since I was a child, I wanted to write the book I wished I could have read every night before going to sleep. […] Célubée is a bit like those mythical animals, halfway between beast and man, disturbing and comforting at the same time.”

IV)

Coming from the science-fiction’s seraglio (unlike the previous authors), and published in a collection of train station literature (“Le Fleuve Noir – Anticipation”, which is the most famous synonym of “popular s-f”), Michel Pagel, who doesn’t like categories, overcame stereotypes. He offered, with his Les Flammes de la Nuit (The Flames of the Night) (originally published in four volumes, then re-edited and rewritten into one integral novel) a work of the literature of the marvelous, that thinks about itself and that, without denying its belonging to the adventure literature, manages to renew itself by examining its own archetypes.

The world of Fuinör is a strange one: superficially, it looks like a fairytale kingdom, straight out of the clichés carried by a Cinderella cartoon. Everything is there: the castle, the knights, an enchanter that evokes Merlin, the good fairies that gather around the princess’ cradle… But it is all a façade, beneath which lies all the perversions of a frozen myth. It is a sclerotic world, built on unfairness and arbitrary. Fairies are the guardians of an established order – but is it a good order, or a bad order? Things are more nuanced than they appear at first… Rowena, catalyst of the change, will fight against prejudices, commit blasphemy upon blasphemy, all until she is exiled to the Land of Madness – and this is when her true quest beings.

One probably needed to be a hardy fool to publish such a novel in such an era (1986), but it was also needed for the author to have culture, intuition and talent. All in all, thirty years later, The Flames of the night still impose themselves as a mature success, that did not gain any wrinkle. Afterward, Pagel did another very beautiful journey throughout the lands of fantasy, with his historical novel “Le roi d’août” (The King of August, 2002), where he offers a mythological reading of the life of the king Philippe-Auguste.

V)

Another “hardy fool” of this time was Jean-Marc Ligny who, in 1994, brutally left the science-fiction genre, of which he was a familiar, just for the time of a novel, a novel written in a style of fantasy that we couldn’t identify at the time, but that we can recognize today as “urban fantasy”. The science-fiction world of the time held quite a grudge against him at the time, and was filled with extremely harsh and dry judgements for his “La Mort peut danser” (Death can dance). However, in present days, we see very easily that it is not a mediocre novel as critics described upon its release – it is a remarkable and original work, a dark and seducing novel. Between the Ireland of 1181, in the middle of the Anglo-Normand invasion, and the one of 1981, split by nationalist tensions and terrorist attacks, the narration wanders among Celtic legends. Bran and Alyz, avant-garde musicians, find themselves plunged (thanks to Alyz’s graceful voice) into a strange synergy beyond time itself, and are forced to accomplish the prophecy of a trio of crows…

VI)

I’ll stop the translation here to return to a “recap” mode.

Ruaud explains that, after those five pioneers, oasis of wonders and marvels in the desert of science and technology, “foolish” pioneers that tried to resurrect fantasy in decades dominated by snobbish critics and science-fiction authors, we would have to wait for the 1990s for fantasy to truly appear as such in France. It was when the “locks were burst open” and France knew a flow of “warriors and fairies”. Ruaud explains that this might be because the authors of the 90s had been, as children, part of the wave of role-playing games, as well as the audience of the boom of the American fantasy. Anyway, young authors suddenly appeared, in an editing world which had a brand new generation of literary directors, and it was a heaven-sent union.

The true formation of the French fantasy is tied to the Mnémos edition which, pioneer of the fantasy edition, published in small formats the new names of French fantasy: David Calvo, Fabrice Collin, Mathieu Gaborit, Pierre Grimbert and Laurent Kloetzer. They were not a “school”, but a generation, that soon became famous – and opened the way for even more authors afterward. The “Mnémos generation” opened a rift within the wall, and now fantasy has been flooding French literature.

Ruaud concludes by mentioning the three names who, for him, are already forming the “references” of French fantasy – Pierre Dubois, Mathieu Gaborit, and Jean-Philippe Jaworski.

[sinafay-the-defiant]

Misguided Justice - Pt. II

 (( Co-written with @thefugitivemango / @argonas / @avehi-the-adamant / @grakkar-gorefang​ ))

Part 1

“NO!”

As the scream echoed out, a heavy, light charged hand axe struck the Vindicator in the chest, exploding on contact. The force knocked him back, cracking his armor. A second one followed in succession, the force of the second blow shattering the armor and lodging into the flesh beneath it.

Sinafay stood at the doorway of the workshop, eyes alight with righteous fury. An aura of Light surrounded her form, power crackling and arcing in tune with her volatile emotions. Bright, light-born wings sprouted from her back as she took hold of a third weapon, a battle axe, before charging in. Argonas barely had time to bring up a shield of Light to block the blow, but the force still caused him to move back. He’d expended a lot of energy taking out Grakkar, and hadn’t expected his former student to recover so quickly.

“I never should have  trusted you!” She raged as she swung again and again, unrelenting! “You’re no better than Yrel and her army of blinded zealots! You failed as a teacher! Failed as a mentor! Failed as a friend!”

Angry tears stung her eyes and she choked back a sob. Argonas had gone and taken away one of the most precious things in her life… and she’d kill him before allowing him to touch a hair on her daughter’s head.

“Fuck you! You should have let us be!”

Gripping the battle axe with one hand, she swung again, only to bring her other hand up to fire a light blast into his face, blinding him temporarily as she jumped up and landed a vicious headbutt into his nose. Once again, her tail wrapped around his leg. She tugged as she spun around, his disorientation causing him to fall flat onto his back. 

“Justice be served!”

She brought the battle axe up with both hands, bright Light radiating off of her and the weapon, ready to bring in down onto the Vindicator in a brutally deadly blow.

But Argonas was not as easily killed! He swung his tail out to trip Sinafay, as she had done to him mere seconds prior, enough to disrupt the would-be coup de grace. Following up with a swift kick, he managed to knock her back and away from him! 

“You know nothing of justice!” he cried out.

He rose quickly, intent on retaliating immediately, but even the Vindicator had his limits. The axes she’d thrown had cut him deeply, his blue blood now gushing from his chest beneath the plate. His nose, too, dribbled with blood from the headbutt.  Bringing his hand up to the deep wound, he called upon the Light to stunt the bleeding. He stabilized… but not well. He felt his strength waning, his vision blurring as his head felt light. 

This couldn’t be it! This couldn’t be all the Light had spared him for! Justice would be done! It had to be! He narrowed his eyes, blurred vision notwithstanding, and began to trudge towards Sinafay once again. He wasn’t sure he’d be able to claim victory over his former student… but he had to try.

“I… am the Light’s justice!” he declared, between labored breaths. “The Light’s VENGEANCE!”

Sinafay chuckled darkly as she got back up and picked up the battleaxe, standing tall as she gripped the handle with both hands.

“Take your vengeance to the Maw.”

She didn’t pause this time, charging up the battleaxe and meeting him in his advance. A couple of swings was all it took, one to knock him off his guard, and the other into the barely stabilized wound in his chest, the searing Light tearing deep into the tissue as it made its way through his chest and out his back.

The Light faded from his form. He stared at Sinafay, a mixture of shock and anger on his final expression. It hurt more than he thought it would, dying by her hand. One he’d cared about once. One he helped to cultivate into a warrior. One who betrayed her people… betrayed him! This was not a just death. This couldn’t be the end of the path the Light had for him. He collapsed to his knees, body growing cold as blood oozed out from both wounds.

“... I… only did… what I thought...  was…”

With that, Argonas fell onto his back, the clamoring of his plated armor serving as his death knell. Sinafay didn’t move, standing and staring until she saw the Light fade from his eyes completely.

She panted as the adrenaline died down. Only then did she finally drop the battle axe and allowed tears to flow freely down her face. Her shoulders shook as she choked out a sob. She’d taken no pleasure in executing Argonas. It didn’t take away her anger, her rage or her sadness. It didn’t bring back Grakkar ; bring her husband and Neelah’s father back. She brought a hand up over her mouth to cover up more sobs, turning her blurry gaze to her mate’s lifeless body.

She made her way over and let herself fall to her knees next to him, ignoring the blood as she leaned over the body, cupping his cold face in her hands. He’d died fighting with honor; the way any Warsong Orc would have wanted. But she knew… oh she knew… he hadn’t gone to join his ancestors. 

Grakkar was in the Maw.

“Light, please…”, she begged in a trembling voice, “Give me the strength...”

She was exhausted, but she had to try. He’d done the impossible for her; had found his way through space and time on a crazy suicide mission, to rescue her from the torturous prison she’d been sentenced to on Draenor. Their love had prevailed back then, and it had only grown stronger since then. 

Sinafay closed her eyes and calmed herself with some deep breathing. She brought her hands over the gaping hole in his chest. Everything she had left, she poured into him, her love, her passion, her hope, her faith… she channeled it all through the Light. For a second time, golden wings sprouted from her back as she poured healing energy into her mate’s fallen body. The sound of cracking bones could be heard as his rib cage snapped back into place and tissue repaired itself… the worst of it anyway...

“Grakkar,” she whispered, urging the Light to call his soul back, “Please… hear me... and come back home.”

The Orc’s body shook, the Light energies jarring his corpse until… it wasn’t so lifeless! Grakkar’s eyes shot open as he suddenly inhaled a long, labored gasp. Then a hoarse cough! His body tensed and writhed under the latent pain from his death. His chest slowly began rising and falling again, though felt sore and tight. Unsurprisingly, considering. His hands came up from his sides to grip at it, finding instead another hand already in place. He looked up, eyes finding difficulty adjusting to the brilliant Light before him.

“... The… ancestors…?”

Sinafay’s golden eyes were wide in surprise. Her face was streaked in blood and tears…. And more tears joined them as she realized she’d succeeded! The Light surrounding her diminished as the task was completed. Exhaustion set in, but she forced herself to stay awake.

“Grakkar…” she managed, voice strained and weak, “My Love… Thank the Light!”

She leaned in over his body again, this time bringing her arms around him in a gentle embrace. Fresh sobs took her over, this time in relief. She couldn’t remember the last time she’d been so afraid! Even the torture the Draenei had inflicted upon her didn’t compare to the sorrow of losing Grakkar so suddenly; of Neelah losing her father before being old enough to form any coherent memory of him. But once more, through the powers of the Light, their love overcame the worst of obstacles. She was so grateful!

“S-Sina! I… Wait, what…?” Grakkar wheezed, still seeming rather incoherent.

“--Sina!”

Another voice rang out. A familiar one. A pair of heavy hoof beats drew closer, armor plating clanking as they drew near. Avehi surveyed the scene with a heavy scowl. She’d done her best to come as soon as she’d received Raetos’ warning, but it had been slow going in convincing the Grand Vindicator. She looked over Sinafay and Grakkar first. Then, her lichfire eyes were drawn to the freshly-slain corpse. 

Accompanying her came an aged Lightforged, adorned in brilliant armor. He carried himself with a nameless-yet-pronounced dignity, exuding a commanding presence. He, too, looked over the scene with a furrowed brow, before kneeling down beside Sinafay and Grakkar. His brow raised, pausing a moment as he examined the freshly revived Orc in the Draenei’s arms. Curious, indeed.

It took Sinafay a moment to register the new arrivals, refusing to look up from her huddled position over Grakkar. Her body still trembled from the emotional distress of the event, and the exhaustion the resurrection had taken on her body. Even her wounds had re-opened, though thankfully weren’t fatal. Still, hearing Grakkar speak, hearing his heartbeat, feeling the warmth return to his body… It brought her much needed comfort.

She didn’t move until she felt a gentle yet heavy hand on her shoulder. Only then did she lift her head and brought her tired gaze to… a ghost?

“... What happened here, Sister?” he asked, voice grizzled, yet soothing.

“Khan-Khanaros? But… how…”

It took a moment to register, she had never even thought to discover what had happened to the Khanaros in this time stream. The High Vindicator in her timeline had met a mysterious death early on in Yrel’s rule, back on Draenor. She had never gotten the chance to meet him, but had been inspired by his words back then, before the end. His presence here brought relief. A familiar face she recognized as good.

“--Hmph! Isn’t it obvious, Khanaros?” Avehi scoffed-- nearly snarling. “He actually did it. Argonas had gone completely zealous! Just like I said he would! Light-blind fool…”

She grunted, approaching Argonas’ lifeless corpse. Staring in disdain, she pressed her hoof up against his plated pauldron, and ground it in as an offensive gesture. She couldn’t deny the sick satisfaction she got from seeing him dead.

“He got what he fucking deserved for it, too.”

Sinafay heard Avehi’s words, but didn’t have the strength to turn and look at her friend. How she wished they’d arrived only a few moments earlier...

“He… came to execute us…” she answered in a half drawl, “Killed Grakkar… but I… the Light… it returned him… to me.”

Khanaros nodded slowly, looking from Sinafay to Grakkar, and back. He felt a tinge of awkwardness-- yet another Vindicator he didn’t seem to recall. He’d trained so many, he wasn’t sure when this one rolled through. But he didn’t dwell on it, instead nodding with reassurance to her.

“The Light is a powerful force of redemption. It seems it was not yet this Orc’s time. Through you, it saw this poor creature’s return--”

“--That’s her mate, Khanaros.” Avehi piped up, still staring at Argonas’ corpse.

The High Vindicator blinked as Sinafay frowned at him. He was somewhat stunned by the revelation. Few things surprised him anymore, but…

“... I see. Well, Grakkar, you said? The Light redeemed him through you, Sister. You must have a strong connection to it.” he went on, before looking to Grakkar. “And… to him, as well.”

Grakkar seemed even more lost now, since the arrival of the two Draenei. He recognized Avehi, at least. But this older one was… somewhat unsettling. He grunted, trying to sit up.

“Who is this, Sina?” he asked, voice gradually returning to normal.

“That can wait.” Avehi interjected again, sternly. “We need to get them appropriate care. And determine what we’re going to do with this piece of shit.”

Her gauntlets tensed, crackling with icy blue lichflame. A dread energy filled the air, emanating a nearly-visible weight of darkness around the Death Knight and the corpse. She grit her teeth, as she held her hand out over Argonas’ body.

“I think death’s too good for him, personally. He could use an undead’s perspective.”

“--Avehi, no.” Khanaros replied, sternly. 

He rose from Sinafay’s side, and paced over to the Death Knight. The exhausted Vindicator returned her attention to her mate, clearly caring about nothing else at that particular moment.

Avehi huffed, lowering her hand and stepping back from Argonas as the High Vindicator approached. She’d figured he wouldn’t go for that…

“Hmph. Fine. Suffering in the Maw works just as well. When we save the others… perhaps we’ll save him last, yes?”

Khanaros approached Argonas’ body, and looked it over appraisingly. He noted the wound-- easily identified with the axe still lodged in it. With a weary sigh, he closed his eyes, and leaned his head back to face the sky. Slowly, he exhaled once more, pensively. 

“... No. He cannot atone, with his soul imprisoned.” he said, looking down to his fallen student. “It is not yet his time, either.”

Kneeling down, Khanaros pulled the axe from Argonas’ chest, quickly covering the wound with his plated hand. The Light wrapped around his form as he channeled its potent power into the fallen Vindicator’s body. As with Sinafay, when she’d revived her mate, brilliant wings born of Light emerged forth from the High Vindicator’s back. Slowly, Argonas’ wounds began to close, as the connection between his body and soul slowly pulled back together. 

Avehi took a step back, the concentration of Light energy more than a little uncomfortable for her. She grimaced, backing away beside Sinafay and Grakkar. Her eyes kept focused on Khanaros as he worked, however. She felt a bitter disgruntlement set in; a far better treatment than Argonas had earned, in her opinion!

~*~

TO BE CONTINUED...

[argonas]

Into the Breach - Argonas’ Prelude

Standing tall, Argonas entered the Vault of Lights. This place always filled him with hope, confidence, and reverence. Feeling the Light course through him was always a boon, and few places could he feel that more strongly than here. 

How many years had it been since he saw his honored mentor? Five? Ten? Longer? He saw the alternate Draenor version of him some years back, through the Dark Portal. To see him in action was inspiring as well, especially in his prime! Today, he arrived to meet High Vindicator Khanaros once again, at his urgent behest. The letter was succinct, yet troubling in its context. For what reason would his mentor call him back, after all these years? Clearly he came to learn he had survived Argus… but this didn't seem like a social or celebratory visit request. Argonas could tell something was wrong. Something dire.

He strode through the Vault, intently and with purpose… before an odd sense of dread washed over him. Something clashes with his holy aura, in the worst way. 

Undeath.

Were they here? Had the Forsaken pushed to the Exodar? Was that why the High Vindicator recalled him, to defend the Isles? --No… no, that wasn't it. He breathed a sigh of relief, as he saw the source of that uneasy, nearly-nauseating sensation he felt. Standing in the center of the Vault, sticking out more than a fish on land, was Vindicator Avehi.

He approached her quietly - at least as quietly as a large plated Vindicator could - from behind. She failed to notice him just as well. As he neared, he heard her muttering to herself.

"...May it be so…"

His brow arched. Had he caught her in prayer? In supplication to the Light? He was well pleased! Not many Death Knights he knew retained their faith. The departure into such depravity wasn't easy to endure. It could shake even his own, he imagined. Nonetheless, it was rude to eavesdrop. Especially on another's praying. But seeing as her words were a common closing of such communion, Argonas felt he should announce his arrival.

"May what be so?" He asked, tone cheerfully inquisitive.

The sickening aura intensified in an instant, giving Argonas chills. He took a step back from Avehi, as she turned to eye him. Her lifeless eyes conveyed contempt - irritation, at the very least. Perhaps she was upset he had caught her praying. 

"Vindicator Argonas." She called him by name, tone dripping with what could only be perceived as disgust! "What are you doing here?"

[avehi-the-adamant]

Justified

((Co-written with @kidcatgemini / @miernethepersevering, and @prancingmad / @nedemus. Ravanhi belongs to cursedkat! Follow her on twitter!))

~*~

The High Vindicator felt largely out of place. His glistening armor, imbued with the Light’s radiant power, stood out all the more so in the conservative and reverent Stormwind Cemetery. He recalled visiting this place once before, laying to rest an old friend from the Northrend campaign. He felt a sense of shame wash over him, realizing he hadn’t visited since; had he really been so busy? Too busy? Even when he was in Stormwind for business… he realized now he’d never come by. His golden glance turned towards the humble grave plot of Marshal Damien Townsend, who gave his life to put an end to the Lich King’s reign. His brow furrowed, resolutely - he would visit him today, after all this.

All this, of course, being hearing out Avehi the Adamant, who had been raising the dead around Azeroth for - based on second-hand accounts - she felt was a just and noble reason. The Draenei’s skin crawled at the very notion. A good reason to raise the dead? He couldn’t fathom one! A part of him had already decided her fate, and wanted to see Avehi locked away for what she’d done. Raising people who deserved rest, like Zaalesh and others. Khanaros’ blood boiled at the thought of such defilement. But the other part knew that justice couldn’t be served without hearing the whole story. Bits and pieces heard from others weren’t sufficient in such a case as this. He wanted to hear Avehi explain herself in person, before making his mind up fully.

“I… appreciate you coming with me, Mierne.” he turned, addressing his partner. “I know you’re here mostly to see that Avehi’s heard out fully and fairly… but I like to think you’re here for me, too.”

He smirked, reaching over to give the shaman’s hand a playful squeeze.

“I am here for you both, of course!”

Mierne leaned into Khanaros’ side with a light chuckle. She’d remained oddly silent, caught up in her own thoughts. She looked up at her partner, her gaze showing the sincerity of her words. It was true, her presence here was to assure Avehi would be fairly heard. While she didn’t know the full story behind the Ebon Knight’s actions, she was most certain they’d been done for good reason. Avehi was youthful and brash, but her heart was always in the right place. 

Khanaros, on the other hand, didn’t have the opportunity to remain neutral on the subject. She understood his difficult position in the matter, and the great responsibility of doing what was best for his people weighing on his shoulders.

“No matter what happens, I appreciate you doing this for her… for me. I realize this isn’t normal procedure, and that you are going out of your way…”

Her arm moved around his torso in a comforting embrace.

“Avehi is many things. She has been through so much. But through it all, she has always been an upfront and honest Draenei.”

"Mm. I appreciate honesty, and being up-front, of course," Khanaros grunted, "but there will be more to it than simply whether or not she tells the truth. If what she hopes to achieve is not commensurate with the Light…"

He cut the thought short, golden gaze cast upward as he beheld a trio of inbound winged creatures. Two were boney, skeletal creatures brimming with necrotic energies. It wasn't hard to guess who commanded those unholy beasts… The third was far more recognizable even at a distance; Argonas and his nether drake, glistening in the night sky. The three of them descended without delay, each landing in succession a short distance from Mierne and Khanaros. The High Vindicator nodded once.

"... I suppose we will learn, one way or the other." he grunted again, before stepping forward to meet the three.

Avehi dismounted Shinigosa promptly, before sending the frostwyrm back up to the sky. The ground was no place for such a creature; already enduring a burial beneath it, Shinigosa was quite keen on flying, and enjoying the freedom she felt in doing so. And Avehi was not one to deny her draconian partner such enjoyment. Her eyes settled on Khanaros, a beacon of Light in the quiet and dimly lit cemetery. One of two, now, as Argonas set hoof on the cobbles with little regard for the clamor each step caused. He had taxed Avehi's patience throughout their journey. Quite a bit beforehand, too. So much so, she couldn't be bothered to spare him a glance.

Instead, her eyes turned to Mierne. A smile graced her lips for what felt like the first time in a long time. Nedemus wasn't lying; he really had reached out to her in this matter. She turned to offer the Worgen an appreciative nod, before she approached her dear old friend. 

"Mierne… I'm sorry you're somehow caught up in this." she dipped her head. "But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't glad to see you here."

Mierne’s reply came in the form of a warm embrace. She wrapped her arms around the Death Knight, giving her that motherly comfort she no doubt needed.

“Don’t you worry about me. I’m just happy to see that you’re safe.”

She leaned in to whisper in her ear so that the two Light suffused beings wouldn’t hear.

“I know Vindicators can be exhausting to work with, but give them a bit of patience today, hm? I am here to assure you are heard.”

Placing a soft kiss on her friend’s cheek, she offered an encouraging smile, before stepping back and finally nodding a greeting to Argonas and Nedemus.

“Thank you both for assuring her safety here.”

Nedemus stepped off of Obelisk, as the skeletal gryphon dispersed, burying itself down into the ground away from the cemetery. The worgen made sure to keep ahead of Argonas, already tired of the ridiculous views that spewed from his mouth, as he took his place beside Avehi, nodding to Mierne. “Of course. Though, I think all parties involved-” He glanced towards the brash young Draenei once more. “- myself and Avehi included, should agree no weapons drawn in this place.”

He said, letting out a small snort as he crossed his arms, nostrils flaring a bit in frustration, but masking his actual intent…

“Out of the question!” Argonas interjected. “Should the need arise, I will not hesitate to draw my sword against the likes of you. I think it better that you agree not to give a reason for me to do so!”

“Calm yourself, Vindicator.” Khanaros stepped forward, eyes on the younger male. “Remember to temper your frustrations, yes? Control your emotions, do not allow them to control you.”

He offered a warm, settling smile to his former trainee, placing a hand on his plated shoulder in a welcoming manner. He nodded once, then looked to Nedemus - sparing the worgen such familiar gestures as putting hands on him, but acknowledging him positively nonetheless.

“Argonas, Nedemus, I echo Mierne’s sentiment; thank you both for seeing Avehi here safely.” he dipped his head in appreciation. “That you are able to set aside your differences for a common goal speak well of both of you, and your reverence for seeing justice done.”

Argonas exhaled a sigh, following his mentor’s counsel in calming himself. He could feel the tension manifest in knots along his neck and shoulders - a burden he’d carried far longer than just this mission. The High Vindicator always could read him well. Humbled, he nodded in response, casting a more amicable glance towards Nedemus… then to Avehi. His brow still furrowed, but the expression was much softer than usual. He was trying.

Nedemus glanced towards Avehi, upon realizing that indeed, this ragtag group of Draenei and Dog were alone in the cemetery. His gaze switched back to Argonas, watching him as they spoke.

“And you, Avehi,” Khanaros turned from Argonas and Nedemus back to Avehi and Mierne, “I appreciate you agreeing to meet here - from what I’m told, a more comfortable, neutral setting given the circumstance?”

Avehi, too, had calmed significantly in the presence of an old friend. Mierne was a comfort to her on even the worst of days. It was fortunate, too - without her trusted friend there to quell her bristly, defensive demeanor, Avehi couldn’t imagine this exchange going well at all. She dipped her head politely, amicably, to the High Vindicator as he acknowledged her.

“Mm, it was an appealing enough invitation. In that… the alternatives were unacceptable.” she put as politely as her irritation would allow. “But nonetheless, I’m here. Let’s get this over with, shall we? What do you wish to know?”

“Everything.” came Khanaros’ vague, but direct response. “What has driven you to do what you’re doing? Why would you raise so many people like Vindicator Zaalesh from death?”

Avehi sighed, tail flickering again. For a second time, she found herself justifying her actions to entities she very nearly reviled. People whose judgment was skewed, albeit in different ways. She leveled her gaze at Khanaros, as if appraising him. The Ebon Blade, at least, had some familiarity with the afterlife. But how could he possibly understand? Would he see this all the same as Argonas did; that Draenei, and other adherents of the Light, should be immune to the machinations of the afterlife? Her eyes narrowed for a brief second, in frustration and disgust. Her words would fall on deaf ears here. Just as the Light blinds, it also deafens. All of this would be a waste of time! She opened her mouth to speak… but hesitated, glancing once more to Mierne. 

Mierne was different from these Light-revering Draenei that summoned and brought her here. Different from most other Draenei. She was patient, open minded, and most importantly willing to give the benefit of the doubt in matters she didn’t understand. Above all that… she was here. She made an effort to see that Avehi would be heard out thoroughly and fairly. An effort Avehi couldn’t waste… if Mierne was trying, Avehi could try too. The Death Knight cleared her throat, and began to explain.

“There is a veil between this existence and the existence beyond death. We Death Knights walk both worlds, and therefore can pass through the veil in ways the living cannot. It is… not unlike how the Auchenai would commune with the departed.” she kept her composure calm, and spoke slowly and succinctly. “When a living soul dies, it journeys to an afterlife commensurate with their worth. Noble souls ascend to planes of righteousness and honor. For Draenei, this is joining with the Light. For elves, returning to nature. It differs for different peoples.”

Khanaros nodded slowly, taking in the information. On some level he knew all this; he thought back to his youth, all those millenia ago on Argus. Back then, the Eredar’s concept of the afterlife didn’t include joining with the Light. It was much more… ambiguous. Nonetheless, all this seemed proper and plausible. He motioned for Avehi to continue.

“Less-than noble souls… those of malicious and terrible beings, regardless of the peoples… those souls are dragged down into a place we call the Maw. Their eternal existences there is one of torment and suffering.” Avehi elaborated. “It is a realm of pain the likes of which no mortal can fathom. As a creature whose existence is wrought with pain and torment… trust me when I say the Maw is as terrible as it could ever get. The Legion, the Old Gods… none of it compare to the Maw.”

“I see… Justice permeates beyond this veil, and those deserving of it are punished for transgressions, yes?” Khanaros affirmed - so far, this all made sense to him. “But what does this have to do with your actions here on Azeroth?”

Avehi shook her head, brow furrowing.

“A few months ago, when I was traversing through this veil… I sensed something. A disturbance of some kind. I didn’t know exactly what. A surge of power… and yet an absence of it? It didn’t make sense.” she grunted in latent frustration at the memory. “I took it upon myself to investigate, worried it was some plot of the Ebon Blade’s, happening beyond the notice of the war-torn factions of the Horde and Alliance. But I came to learn even they didn’t know, and shared in my desire to discover what was happening.”

“And… what is happening?” Khanaros pressed.

“Justice… is not being served.” Avehi stated. “For reasons we still don’t know, all souls - even noble souls - are being pulled into the Maw to suffer eternally.”

“What? How is that possible?” came the High Vindicator’s skeptical questioning.

“I said we still don’t know!” Avehi snapped, reflexively. 

She cleared her throat, recollecting herself before continuing. Nedemus stepped to her side, bringing up his hand and placing it on her shoulder, attempting to comfort her as best he could in this situation. The Draenei nodded in appreciation to Nedemus, before straightening. She leveled her gaze to the High Vindicator once more, and continued. 

“That is… it’s hard to be certain. Even to the undead, the majority of processes and machinations of the afterlife are largely shrouded in mystery. We don’t know much at all… but we certainly know more than most living.” she corrected, as politely as she could muster. “This even came as something of a surprise to Exarch Ravanhi of the Auchenai. She and her ilk have sensed this disturbance as well, but lack the capacity to scry beyond the veil that they once had. The capacity the Ebon Blade yet holds, at least somewhat.”

“Ravanhi.” Khanaros repeated the name under his breath.

He was familiar with the Exarch; a fellow Argus-born Draenei, one of few still around. Khanaros recalled Ravanhi as a gentle soul and a curious mind. Her days on Argus were spent as a humble priestess contemplating the nature of existence itself. That passion and wisdom served her well as a High Priestess of the Auchenai on Draenor, and again in more recent days serving as a diplomat to the Kaldorei people. He’d always found her to be polite and thoughtful… yet tormented in a way. Lonely and reclusive, Khanaros got the sense the suffering of their people resonated much deeper with her over the nigh-countless years. But knowing her, she’d never let such despair claim her. Not while there remained others in need. 

He grunted, nodding slowly as he refocused his attention to the Death Knight before him. It was both curious and comforting that Avehi had sought out the Auchenai concerning such a severe-sounding matter. If nothing else, it spoke positively of her intentions; were she raising the dead for some nefarious purpose, interactions with the Auchenai would be the last thing she’d want. And if someone as spiritually-attuned as Ravanhi also felt the strange disturbance Avehi spoke of… that surely lent credence to her story.

“You know this Exarch, sir?” 

Argonas piped up, if only to break up the silence that permeated the cemetery during the contemplative moment. He furrowed his brow, luminous eyes glancing between his honored mentor and traitorous sister. They settled on the latter, scrutinously; this was the first he was hearing of any Auchenai contact! Was she making it up…?

“I know of her, yes.” Khanaros nodded to Argonas, before exhaling a sigh. “So… if I am assuming correctly, Avehi, you’re raising these people as a means to prevent them from being trapped in the Maw?”

“Yes, that’s correct.” Avehi affirmed with a single nod. “Until such time as I can discern a better way, raising them is the only means to keep them from being lost forever.”

“And… you are certain that existence in the Maw is a worse fate than an existence of undeath?” he asked, brow furrowed. “How can you be sure of this?”

“I’ve seen it.” she scowled. “Through great concentration and effort, I was able to… project myself, for lack of a better term, to the Maw. I was looking for someone specific… and found someone else instead.”

“Looking for who?”

Avehi glanced to Argonas, and stifled a grunt.

“Sinafay. A Vindicator from alternate Draenor, and a friend of mine.” she explained. “I thought I sensed her, which would’ve meant she had died. I went to the Maw to find her, and maybe ask where she died so I could…”

Avehi shook her head, letting the thought finish itself. No one present had any illusions as to what she was doing now, anyway. She’d been honest enough about it. Argonas’ brow furrowed deeper still as he peered at Avehi. That she would even consider raising Sinafay - Orc-lover or not - was atrocious!

“And… you found someone else instead?” Khanaros asked, keeping the exchange on track.

“I did, yes.” Avehi stated, eyes still affixed, unblinking, at the younger Vindicator. “Sinafay. But from this timeline. Argonas’ wife.”

“LIES!”

Argonas had heard enough! Too much to remain passive anymore! He stepped forward towards Avehi, fists clenched!

“How dare you implicate my wife in your deceit? How dare you even speak her name with your defiler’s mouth!?”

“Argonas,” Mierne was quick to get between the Vindicator and Avehi.

Nedemus retracted, stepping back. He had begun to intercept Argonas’ movements, but stopped as he noticed Mierne step in. His foot slid back to position, his gaze glancing towards Avehi as he waited to see if the shaman could handle the zealous fool.

Her hands came up to his chest in an effort to stop his advance. Even though they were no longer intimate, she hoped their friendship was enough for her words to calm him. Her eyes held nothing but concern for the younger Vindicator. If anyone knew how difficult Sinafay’s passing had been for him, it was her. He’d spent a whole year on her island, in isolation, mourning her loss. She’d seen the devastation in his dealings with the alternate version of her. 

“I understand your anger, but you must keep a clear head, yes? There is still much that needs to be learned before any judgment can be made” she kept her voice soft and soothing. 

“Hmph! There is still much truth to be learned! None of these blatant lies serve to see justice met!” Argonas continued protesting. “This is an obvious attempt at manipulation! She seeks to  establish some personal credibility to her twisted and outlandish tale!”

He stayed by Mierne’s hand, but showed no signs of calming or backing down. His piercing gaze still affixed accusingly to Avehi. The Death Knight returned his scowl defiantly, tail flickering in agitation as he went on his rant. Her eyes narrowed.

“It’s true, Argonas. Your wife is in the Maw.” she reiterated. “And the longer you try and hold me up, the longer she’ll suffer there!”

“SHUT UP!”

With his aggressive outburst, Argonas brusquely pushed past Mierne. Amber Light arced across his plated body, brought on by his unbridled rage. He brought a hand up to reach back behind him for his sheathed blade as he stomped towards Avehi!

Nedemus growled out, placing himself between Argonas and the Draenei, though his own blade stayed holstered on his back. “Stand down, Argonas.”

“Step aside, you accursed dog corpse! Or you shall be the first--”

“--Vindicator Argonas.”

He stopped in his tracks. The Light sparking off of the Vindicator subsided, Argonas almost wincing at Khanaros’ command. The High Vindicator didn’t raise his voice much louder than usual, but his tone struck with authority. Command. Disappointment. Slowly, Argonas’ hand lowered from the hilt of his crystalline sword, as he turned his gaze; an angered and vindictive glare at Nedemus, to a remissive and chastised leer as it settled on his old mentor.

“You brought Avehi here to be heard, correct?” Khanaros continued his reprimanding. “I will be the judge of the merit and intent of her words. Not you. Is that understood?”

“... As you say, High Vindicator.” Argonas replied, tone laced with begrudgement. 

He scowled once more at Nedemus, then again at Avehi, before stepping back - an apologetic glance to Mierne as he passed her by again.

The shaman brought a comforting hand up to the Vindicator’s arm as he moved by her. There was no disappointment to be seen in her features as she looked up at him, only concern. His reaction towards Avehi’s words, while non-conductive to what they were trying to achieve, was understandable.

“I know this is difficult, but we must keep a clear head. I know Avehi well, and I do feel her words are worth investigating, at the very least. If she is right, and the unspeakable has befallen your wife, then there are other ways to verify that claim, I’m certain.”

She glanced to Khanaros.

“I do not have a connection with the afterlife… but another shaman… or perhaps a priest? I’m certain they have a connection with the dead. If you do not trust the words of Death Knights, then perhaps calling on a worthy soul that has recently passed could communicate what they see.”

Khanaros exhaled a sigh, as he looked Avehi over. Pensive, thoughtful… still not entirely convinced. He knew this would be a difficult thing to hear out and pass suitable judgment on, but more so than he had anticipated. There was a lot of new information to consider, to process, and to weigh against the greater good of not just his people, but all people in general. Slowly, he shook his head.

“A difficult claim to verify, seeing as none of us possess the capacity to venture into this place ourselves.” he lamented, crossing his arms over his chest. “Is there any way you can prove that you saw Argonas’ wife? Or… any of this, for that matter?”

Avehi huffed. There wasn’t an easy way to do that, unfortunately. Khanaros was right about that. For a moment, she considered his point of view; would she be skeptical if their positions were reversed? No… no she wouldn’t. She would trust Khanaros, and take his word as truth at face value. A courtesy he apparently wasn’t willing to extend to her. Her nose crinkled, nostrils flaring in frustration. This was a waste of time.

“Allow me to kill and raise Argonas. He can see her for himself. Then come back and tell you all about it.” she snapped, glowering. “If you won’t take my word for it, perhaps you’ll take his!”

“Mind yourself, Avehi. Take this seriously, as I have been. Your indignation is no more helpful than Argonas’ aggression!” Khanaros snapped back, with a scowl of his own. “Given what you’ve been doing, it’s not unfair to ask for some manner of verification of your claim.”

He shook his head, and cleared his throat. 

“I will ask again - if you know of a way your claim can be proven to us, I would hear it.”

Avehi scoffed, eyes trailing to Argonas. She stared at him for a moment, before speaking again.

“I spoke with her. She is lost, and scared. She thought you died as well. And she worried she somehow deserved to be there, and that you separated from her and joined with the Light.” she explained, managing her tone. “I told her you yet lived. And she gave me a message for you. She told me to tell you - in her words, mind you - to ‘stop being a dumbass’. And she said to have some alcohol ready for her when you bring her home.”

Argonas’ scowl remained, brow only knitting further with every word. His hands tensed to fists, lip curling to bare his teeth. He grunted.

“... High Vindicator, you give this thing far too much leeway.” he growled. “I will not stand here while you permit Avehi to besmirch my deceased wife in such a manner!”

“Then… you are dismissed.”

Argonas snapped his gaze to the High Vindicator, in shock!

“--What?”

“You are dismissed, Argonas.” he repeated, firmly. “Your presence is no longer required.”

“B-But… what about her? What is your judgment?”

Khanaros glanced to Argonas briefly, before sighing and looking to Avehi once more. 

“Either she’s fabricated an elaborate lie to buy herself time… or she’s expressing to us a terrible truth.” he stated. “I am choosing to believe the latter, in this case.”

Avehi, too, looked surprised. She hadn’t expected Khanaros to believe her. To trust her. With all she’d seen so far, she wasn’t sure he hadn’t already made up his mind. In affirmation, she nodded to the High Vindicator.

“I… thank you.” she uttered, hesitantly.

“This is outrageous!” Argonas shouted, in anger! “She has been raising the dead! She came here and slandered my dead wife! And you believe her blatant lies?”

“You find error in my judgment, Vindicator Argonas?” Khanaros asked, tone threatening.

He didn’t even glance at Argonas' way. Instead he approached Avehi, arms still crossed before him. His gaze was penetrating, and severe.

“She knows if she is lying, there will be no second chance. If I must send someone for her a second time, it will not be to invite her to be heard.” he replied to Argonas… and cautioned the Death Knight. “I will be following up with the Auchenai to verify these things. Perhaps even the Ebon Blade, if they’ll speak to me. But one way or another, I will find out the truth.”

He dipped his head to Avehi, stern expression softening just so.

“And I hope when I do, I will owe you both an apology and appreciation for bringing this to my attention.”

“Hm! Then I will expect both once you’ve looked into this yourself, High Vindicator.” Avehi smirked, bowing her head in return.

Behind them, Argonas was seething. His face contorted into a hideous scowl, as he clenched his fists so hard as to cause his gauntlets to begin buckling! His face flushed blue, vessels bulging beneath his skin. With an agitated grunt, he turned and stomped off - he had been dismissed, after all… 

Mierne breathed a sigh of relief as Khanaros gave his verdict. She looked over to him as Argonas stomped off, giving him a smile and a nod of approval. 

“I will allow you to finish your business, then. See you tonight,” she informed her lover, before following after the younger Vindicator.

Nedemus nodded softly towards Khanaros. “Thank you for allowing her the chance to speak, Khanaros… Argonas seemed to make it appear that she had no choice in the matter, that you were unreasonable. Doesn’t seem like he was representing you well.”

Khanaros nodded to Mierne as she departed, before looking to Nedemus. He exhaled a heavy sigh, and shook his head.

“Argonas has always been… direct. Presumptuous.” he shrugged. “Despite what you may have seen of him here tonight, he means well. Perhaps not for you specifically, but for the world as a whole.”

“Hmph. If that were true, he wouldn’t work so hard to interfere.” Avehi commented, with a light scoff. “This issue grows worse by the day, and there’s still no clear way forward.”

“Mm, there’s still no clear problem, to many of us. I would not have known any wiser if you had not told me of it.” Khanaros explained. “For Argonas… his reluctance to believe all this shouldn’t surprise you. If not because it is adverse to all he knows, because accepting it means accepting the painful truth that his wife is suffering… and that he’s helpless to stop it.”

The High Vindicator shook his head, as he stepped back from the pair of Death Knights. He regarded them both, appraisingly. 

“We will be in touch. Not only as I follow up on what you’ve revealed here tonight, but I also expect if anything more develops… you’ll let me know, correct?”

Avehi nodded once more, before dipping her head respectfully. 

“We will, Khanaros. It is… a relief… to have your support in all this.”

“Mm. It isn’t support just yet. Not until I learn more of it. But for now… I’ll do what I can to see to it that your investigations aren’t hindered.” he replied, brow furrowed. “I make no guarantees; going around raising the dead certainly doesn’t sit well with a vast majority of people. So being, I trust you’re at least keeping that to a minimum?”

“As much as I can.” Avehi nodded once more. “This existence isn’t any I would wish on anyone. But compared to the Maw…”

She trailed off, shaking her head. Khanaros nodded, understanding nonetheless. He turned from the two, and began to walk the cobbled path - deeper into the cemetery, rather than out of it. 

“Mm. Light guide you, Avehi. Nedemus.” he bid them as he departed. 

“I entrust you to do what is right.”

~*~

[miernethepersevering]

Zealotry

(( Co-written with @thefugitivemango / @argonas​ / @avehi-the-adamant​ following the story ‘Justified’. Tagging @nedemus​ and @sinafay1​ /  @codegemini​ for character mention ))

~*~*~

Argonas’ angered pacing stopped at a nearby fountain. Mierne wasn’t far behind him, having followed him from the cemetery. She made no effort to conceal her presence, though her hoof steps could barely be heard compared to his. Sparks of Light crackle across the Vindicator’s armor as he seethed. She paid them no mind as she moved to his side. There was silence as she pondered what to say. Surely, there were none that felt proper to soothe her friend's anger. Instead, she simply rested a hand on his plated arm.

...Not for long, however. He pulled away immediately with a scowl,

“ I need not your pity, nor your consolation, Mierne." he snapped.

“I offer neither. Merely a listening ear.”

“Hmph! What more is there to say? The Light's justice has failed today!”

“It did not work out the way you wished, but that does not mean it failed.”

“He is letting her GO, Mierne! He is letting Avehi continue defiling the dead, with no consequences!”

She merely shook her head, ever patient, “He is investigating."

"—What more is there to investigate?! She admitted to it!" He was shouting now as more enraged Light crackled off his body. Truly, an intimidating sight.

Though Mierne refused to allow it to affect her so. “If there is really something wrong with the afterlife, would you not want to know? If Sinafay is suffering—“

“—Enough! Sinafay is -not- suffering!

“But what if she -is-, Argonas?!” she persisted, “Would you not want to save her from that fate?!”

The Vindicator shook his head, sweeping his arm in front of him in a large negative gesture, "She died a most noble death! The Light would not allow her to enter into this 'Maw', or whatever! She is one with the Light, now!" he stated, firmly. "Avehi is lying!"

"And if you're wrong?"

"The Light would not fail Sinafay like that. It delivered me from death. It would not see her suffer in the same stroke! You trust Avehi far too much.”

“Perhaps. But you are blinded by your hatred for her. If she is lying, Khanaros will find out, and then your justice can be delivered. You must exercise patience!”

Argonas shook his head, and turned back towards the fountain, "Khanaros... hmph. He has changed.He used to carry such a definitive sense of justice. A decisive and sure demeanor. Seeing him back there, I felt I was watching a completely different person than my old mentor!”

Mierne frowned, "He hasn't changed at all. I have known him since before you were born. Khanaros has always been level headed and just! You say this because he did not make a decision you agreed with! This is a complicated issue and it must be treated as such.”

Argonas 's tail twitched. Her words seemed to strike something in him. He turned his head slowly, eyes narrowing at the Shaman. "No... instead, he made a decision -you- agree with. You have long been an advocate for Avehi, have you not?”

“Which is why I wasn't the one passing judgment. I was there to see that Avehi was given the proper chance to explain herself. That was my only request to Khanaros.”

“Truly? Is that -all- you were there for? You hold more sway over the High Vindicator than anyone else! Even if you did not ask directly, he knows well how close you and Avehi are. What she -means- to you! You have interfered with proper justice, Mierne! Intentionally or not... the High Vindicator must have been soft on Avehi because of -you-!” He huffed, "It is the only explanation!"

“Don't be ridiculous! Khanaros had no intentions to even speak to Avehi until Nedemus brought up the issue with the afterlife!”

“I know well he played his part in these... manipulations, as well. But this hearing would not have even happened if it were not for you and your relationship with him!”

“If you think that Khanaros put his feelings for me ahead of his duties as High Vindicator,  then you are a fool!”

“Hah! -I- am a fool? I believe if you seriously think Avehi's made-up story about the afterlife being ‘broken’ is true, then it is YOU who are the fool, here!”

“I know Avehi well enough to know that she is -not- a liar. If you had any ounce of sense left in you, you would see that.”

“You knew her in life, perhaps! Undeath changes people! Twists and perverts them into monsters! I have seen it! And now that Avehi has shown herself to be one, your bias towards her clouds your judgment. And the High Vindicator's judgment by virtue of your relationship with him!"

“Certain things have changed, yes. But she is still the Avehi I knew on Draenor. Her drive to do what is right and her honesty have persevered even in death!”

“Bah! Something else entirely drives her, now. She has proven that by raising and defiling so many with her necrotic magics! Her fabricated lies about the afterlife and the Maw are just her way of justifying her abhorrent actions! And they have worked perfectly on you and Khanaros!”

Mierne let out an exasperated sigh, clearly frustrated at the Vindicator’s refusal to listen to reason.

"No... no, this is not justice,” he huffed, “This is not the Light's will! If Khanaros will not see to righteous vindication for Zaalesh and the others... I will."

Mierne stepped forward, immediately grabbing his arm again, "You will leave Avehi be until the High Vindicator finishes his investigation!"

Argonas looked down at the Shaman’s hand, before tugging his arm away once more. He scowled.

"I take no orders from -you-, Mierne! You cannot manipulate me like you do Khanaros! I will be watching Avehi closely. If she sets even half a hoof out of line, defiles any more fallen, or even breathes my wife's name again... I will do what I should have done in Northrend, and end her miserable existence! The High Vindicator has until such time to finish his so-called ‘investigation’. Otherwise, he will not need to!”

Mierne 's tail flickered in clear agitation, "Argonas, this is my final warning. Do -not- allow yourself to be led by your grief and anger."

"What else do I have?!” He snarled, “I have lost -everything- now, Mierne! My wife, my child, and now my mentor! Grief and anger are all I have left!"

“No, it is not! You cannot allow yourself to be lost to this! You are -more- than this!”

He shook his head stubbornly once more, turning from both Mierne and the fountain.

"All I am is an instrument for the Light's justice. And I -will- see justice met! Mark my words, Mierne... Avehi will atone for what she has done."

“What you are doing is -not- justice! It is zealotry!”

“No, it is vindication. And I am a Vindicator.”

As Argonas began to depart in a huff, Mierne took a step forward, but resigned to saying anything more, allowing him to leave. She had no parting words for him, only a frustrated sigh.

~*~*~

[codegemini]

Misguided Justice - Pt. III

  (( Co-written with @thefugitivemango​ / @argonas​ / @avehi-the-adamant​ / @grakkar-gorefang​​ ))

 Part 1 | Part 2

 ~*~*~

Darkness.

 It was all Argonas could see or sense as he floated formlessly in the afterlife. For a moment, anyway. Suddenly, he felt himself coalesce, the fragmented essence of his soul recombining in a realm beyond. It took a moment for his surroundings to register. They felt far too harsh and horrible to be real… but the consistency they presented were too potent to ignore. He gasped-- or would, if he had a body still, as he beheld a hellish nightmarescape open up before him. Anguished cries and horrendous roars echoed through the desolate plains. The harshness of this place sank into all his senses, even ones he didn’t have in his mortal form.

 This couldn’t be right! This was not the Light he was to join with upon death! This place was terrible, in every sense of the word! He didn’t belong here! He’d been a faithful servant of the holy Light for most of his life! To the very end, he’d done everything he felt the Light required of him! Even his gambit to deliver justice to Sinafay the Defiant was all in effort to stop Avehi from defiling bodies with the curse of undeath. No, if the Light had the power to, it would deliver him from this place. 

 And if it couldn’t… it meant something was wrong. He backed up against an outcropping of stone, the realizations setting in and setting in hard. Undeniably, this was the Maw. And him being here meant that Avehi was right. Death was broken. And he had been too arrogant to believe her.

 “--Argo…” 

 Sinafay froze as she looked at the form in front of her. White eyes were wide, mouth hung open,  and brows knit into a confused expression. Her garments were ripped and tattered, and the weapons she held were obviously handcrafted. She’d clearly been fighting for a while, yet her stance was strong, reminiscent of the resilience she’d shown in life. 

 She almost dropped her weapons at the shock of seeing him. It couldn’t be…. and yet there he was. The shaman took a few hoof steps back, unable to help but be weary. Was it a trick? The Maw had thrown all manner of horrible creatures and tricks her way since her arrival. But this was the first she’d seen of her husband… actually SEEN him… since their adventures on Draenor. Avehi had told her that Argonas was alive, still… How could he be here? Unless... he held the essence of a fresh soul. And his expression… the horror and confusion in his gaze as he beheld where he was… 

 “...Is it you?” she all but whispered, unable to keep a plethora of emotions from rising to the surface.

 “S-Sina!” Argonas replied, wasting no time in rushing to her. “My Sinafay! Oh Light, it is you!”

 He’d recognize her anywhere, in any form! Jarring as it was to behold a soul-essence, seeing her without a blindfold and both horns intact, he could feel that this was, indeed, his Beloved Sinafay! A beacon of hope in this horrid place!

 And yet, her presence here was, itself, horrible! Further proof that Avehi was right, and her soul had been imprisoned here in the Maw, unable to join with the Light, same as his. It made his heart sink; to know she’d been down in such a place the whole time, since Argus? He had refused to believe it before, when the Death Knight had told him so. Perhaps… he simply couldn’t. But now, there was no denying it. She was trapped here, and now he was, too. 

 Sinafay’s weapons hit the ground as she opened her arms up for Argonas, holding him close in a tight hug. She knew the dangers that would come from her heart soaring in this moment, but she didn’t care. She’d missed him SO much! 

 “Sina… I am so sorry. I was to die with you, but… the Light spared me, somehow.” he explained, as best he could. “I should have been with you. Here, in this place. Together! And… now I am.”

 “Oh, Argo…” she sighed, hugging him tight and looking up to meet his gaze.She was both elated and saddened that he was here with her, “My Love… I am so happy the Light protected you from this place. I’m happy you did not have to suffer here all of this time, as I did. Neither one of us belongs here. Your presence here is proof enough of Avehi’s words. She will find a way, I am certain… A way to get us out. Until then, we fight together, as we always have, yes?”

 “Avehi… Light, I did not believe her. I could not!” he lamented, shoulders slumping as he held his Sinafay close. “I fought against her so�� vehemently! I refused to believe her when she--”

 He stopped, suddenly feeling the strange sensation of becoming undone once again. Pain, and yet… numbness. His form began to dissipate, flaking away into fragments in Sinafay’s arms.

 “--Sina! What is this? I…” he exclaimed. “I feel I am… returning?”

 It was fresh enough a sensation in his mind to recognize it happening yet again. It was like dying all over, when his soul left his body. He could feel it drawn upwards again, from where he’d come. How was it possible?

 Sinafay’s heart sank as she realized what was happening. She’d seen it before. Souls being thrown into the Maw, only to be pulled back out in a resurrection… Her sorrowful gaze met Argonas’. She felt so torn! Wanting him to stay, yet feeling relieved he wouldn’t have to experience the Maw’s tortures first hand. 

 “It’s alright,” she nodded, reassuring herself along with him, “A second chance… Use it, My Love. Find a way to free us of this place once and for all.” She swallowed hard, “I love you!”

 “I will! I promise, Sina! I will return! I will find you again! And I will free you!” he called, while he still could. “I love you! I love you so m--”

 The last of his form dispersed, fragments floating away in a steady stream out of the darkness.

 ~*~*~

Argonas gasped, his body seizing as he came back to life. He coughed violently feeling air return into his once-damaged lungs. His eyes were slow to focus, but they finally settled upon the stern, disappointed face of Khanaros. He groaned, both from the trauma of resurrection, and anticipating the terrible lecture he was about to receive.

 Though Khanaros’ voice wasn’t the first he heard, as he returned.

 “Welcome back, asshole.”

 He turned his head to see Avehi-- briefly. Her hoof flew swiftly into his face for a devastating kick. He reeled, setting into a coughing fit again as his nose gushed blood!

 “--Avehi!” Khanaros scolded, turning his frowning facade to his other pupil.

 “What? He deserves it!” she scoffed, stepping back satisfied. “You bring him back to where he can feel pain, and I’ll give him some!”

 Sinafay’s golden gaze finally turned towards them. Her entire body tensed the moment Argonas’s life returned, her arms tightening protectively around her husband… even though Grakkar probably had the most strength between the two of them at the moment. Her look was appraising, attempting to decipher if a trip to the otherside had shocked her old mentor out of his zealotry. 

 “Avehi, you--” Argonas growled, ready to go off on that bitch Death Knight… before thinking better of it. “... You were right.”

 He sighed, letting his head drop back down as he stared at the sky. He was still readjusting to being alive again. Despite not being dead long, returning to one’s body was a very stark sensation. He was very aware of everything, from the tip of his tail to the crest on his head. Every fingertip, every hair. The rush of sensations was disorienting.

 “... I saw her. I saw Sinafay. My Sinafay” he went on, voice weary as if he’d been running for hours. “I saw… the Maw. Such a terrible place! I should have listened, but I… I could not believe it…”

 “Hmph. No shit.” Avehi scoffed, crossing her arms. “I’m a lot of things, Argonas. But I’m not a liar!”

 “--Enough. It seems he understands, now.” Khanaros interjected, rising from his kneel with a grunt. “I am thoroughly disappointed in you, Argonas. I told you explicitly not to interfere with Avehi! And what do you do? You come here, seeking to do harm to one of her friends? To what end? Did you think you could get away with such juvenile technicalities?”

 “N-No, High Vindicator I…” Argonas began to explain as he sat up, but only ended up sighing. “... I have no excuse. I allowed my anger and frustrations to get the better of me. And… I sought Sinafay out as a target for those frustrations.”

 He looked past Khanaros, to Sinafay-- only able to look her in the eyes for a brief moment. He could feel her rage, even from the distance. Well deserved. His shoulders slumped, as he dipped his head, apologetically.

 “... I know nothing I say will be enough, Sister. But I am truly sorry for what I did. You were right; I failed you as a mentor, and as a friend.” he said, penitently. “I hope for it, but expect no forgiveness from you.”

 Now it was Sinafay’s turn to look away, her angry gaze looking off into the distance as she tried to make sense of the senselessness he had shown. His death had given her no comfort, but the fact that he now realized how horribly wrong and out of line he was… that helped. His apology was sincere… yet she still felt an overwhelming amount of rage. Not only had he been ready to execute her in her home, but he’d gone after her husband as well… ready to leave Neelah without her parents, where no one would ever hear the infant’s cries…

 That thought alone was enough to bring tears to her eyes. The worst of it was that she knew he wouldn’t have thought twice about it. Even now, did he even consider killing Grakkar and leaving her infant to starve a crime? Was he only apologizing about trying to kill her? The way he’d treated them upon Neelah’s birth… she really wondered.

 “...not yet,” she shook her head, “It’s… too soon,” she couldn’t quite keep the anger out of her voice, “But… I’m not the only one you need to apologize to.”

 She set her gaze on him again, nodding her head towards her husband.

 Argonas looked to Grakkar-- only now noticing he, too, had been revived! He blinked in surprise, seeing the Orc upright and moving beside Sinafay. His brow furrowed a bit, as he made eye contact with him. Grakkar didn't look at all pleased to see Argonas alive again, either. He growled lowly, huffing. As if the Vindicator would--

 "... I have not been kind to you, Orc. You understand, in this timeline your kind committed all manner of heinous crimes against my people." Argonas said, sternly. "But it was not right of me to take those injustices out on you."

 He nodded once to the Orc, still frowning. Grakkar huffed once more, though he wasn't able to hide his surprise that he'd even been offered that much of an apology. With a grunt, he nodded in turn. Argonas was hardly forgiven, but it seemed his apologies were accepted. So far.

 “Perhaps, you can attempt again at a later time and use his actual name,” Sinafay couldn’t help but snap. She grunted, finally getting to her feet, hand clutching her side, “Especially considering he’s the honorable one between the two of you.”

 She turned her back to him and extended a hand towards her mate, “We need to clean up and get some rest before Neelah wakes up. Thank you, Avehi and Khanaros. We are in your debt.”

 Grakkar followed Sinafay, wordlessly. His brow furrowed, troubled by both the things he saw beyond the veil, and these issues he’d returned to. Draenei zealotry was universal, it seemed. Permeating timelines and corrupting friends. It weighed heavily on the old Orc; some things never changed…

 “We only wish we had arrived sooner, Sister.” Khanaros bowed his head, as the injured Vindicator and her Orc mate started back to their home. “Perhaps we could have prevented this needless violence altogether.”

 “Or joined in.”

 Avehi couldn’t help but grin at Sinafay, as she helped escort her and Grakkar part way up the hill. She was relieved her friend was okay. And surprisingly… even relieved Grakkar was okay, too. The Death Knight knew what he meant to Sinafay, at least. And seeing him restored, Orc that he was, felt right. A strange feeling for Avehi, indeed. She gently gave Sinafay’s shoulder a squeeze, slowing to part from the pair as they continued on.

 “I’ll return later, to check on you both. If there’s anything you need between now and then… you know how to reach me.”

 Sinafay nodded, leaning in to give her friend a short hug in appreciation before making her way into the house with her mate.

 The Death Knight’s brow furrowed as she returned to Khanaros and Argonas. The air once again grew cold around her, icy blue eyes settling on the injured scum who attacked her friend. She crossed her arms, tail swaying like a predatory cat ready to pounce.

 “What’s done is done.” Khanaros preempted, seeming to sense the quickly-rising tension. “Argonas, you’ve proven to have poor judgment in this matter time and time again. Emotions clouded your sense of justice and duty. For this… you must atone.”

 Argonas nodded, slowly. Penitently. He dare not make eye contact with either his disappointed mentor, nor the Death Knight who tried to warn him months prior. Guilt and shame consumed his thoughts. The weight of seeing his Sinafay in such a vile place corroded his emotions. He’d been so wrong! And what pained him most was how far back he’d set any progress by harassing Avehi this whole time! He finally looked to the Ebon Knight, brow furrowed in determination. He had to make this right. He had to make up for what he’d cost his Beloved. No matter what.

 “... Tell me what I must do.”

 ~*~*~

[avehi-the-adamant]

Arathi Meetup

It was a beautiful day in Arathi. Raetos took a moment to take it all in. The fields still held signs of the battles that had been waged during the faction war: broken siege engines, catapults, pieces of armor and weapons scattered about. Still, nature was already beginning to reclaim the land, the grass spreading and growing tall to cover up the ground beaten down by cavalry. The sky was a perfect blue, not a cloud in sight. 

He allowed his companion to graze in the fields as he made his way into the ruins of Stromgarde. While parts had been reclaimed and rebuilt by the Alliance in the war, there was still a large part left untouched. The Lightforged’s hoof steps were surprisingly light for someone his size, moving through the environment without a sound. Compared to the Fel environment of Argus, this was nothing. 

He’d certainly seen a lot of what beauties Azeroth had to offer in his hunts for Avehi. First Northrend, then Pandaria, and now the Eastern Kingdoms. He wondered if Kalimdor would be next. She was easy enough to track down now. Surely, she felt relaxed enough not to try and cover up her tracks. That, and he was well attuned to her cold and necrotic aura.

He moved around a wall and unharnessed his rifle, having filled it with special rounds for his prey. He propped it up on the stone ledge, looking through the scope as the Ebon Knight came into view. He smiled, seeing her, already feeling his insides stir in anticipation. He took a moment to slow his heart rate, aiming carefully at her chest….

...And fired off a couple of pink paint rounds.

*Splorch! Splotch!*

Slowly, Avehi looked down at her chest plate. She didn’t so much feel the paint round hit, as low impact as it was on her plated armor, but the sound caught her attention on its own. She snarled as she beheld the fresh pink stain on her tabard-- one of her prized possessions. Avehi had kept this tabard clean and serviceable for years following her demise. Washing it, sewing up holes and tears, and overall maintaining it as meticulously as she maintained her armor, weapons, and even herself! And now… paint? She eyed the stain’s splatter, judging well enough the trajectory of the projectile that did this, and turned her gaze up towards the stone ledge.

“Raetos!”

The Death Knight reached out her hand, calling upon the necrotic power she had mastered over the years to reach out for him. A shadowy tear ripped through the space between them in a harsh and jagged line as the darkness gripped at the Lightforged. She pulled at him, yanking him down from his perch towards her! She could immediately feel the tingle of his opposing Light suffusing as the tendrils of darkness connected between them… and couldn’t help but smirk.

“Hehe! Gotcha!”

Raetos grinned widely, victoriously. Like a child who’d just won a game. Even having just been yanked over by Avehi’s creepy magic, he couldn’t help but be in a good mood.

“I’m gonna be straight with you. Had no idea you could do that. Creepy as fuck, but pretty cool move.”

He reached out to loop an arm around her waist to pull her against him.

“What other surprises do you have in store for me, My Lady?”

“Tch… only a fool would reveal all their tricks at once, yes?” she grinned back at the Lightforged, his playful mood contagious.

Nonetheless, she pushed away from him, putting a bit of distance between them as she looked around. Her icy gaze scanned over the entry paths, and other stone outcroppings like the one on which she’d spotted Raetos. Her tail twitched warily for a moment, before she returned her attention to the other Draenei.

“What are you doing here?” she asked, bluntly. “You came alone?”

“Pff! Of course I came alone! You think I’m stupid or something?”

As she moved away to look around, he couldn’t help but fire another paintball into her thigh at close range. He’d managed to keep a firm hold on the rifle in one hand despite her surprising magic.

“Hah! Gotcha again! Man, you would be extra dead if Argonas was still on your trail. Dude, that guy is PISSED!”

She scowled at Raetos, letting out a huff.

“Enough of that. Or it’ll be the only kind of round you ‘unload’ today.” she warned him.

Getting shot again hadn’t soured her mood, but the mention of Argonas certainly had. She took another quick glance around the worn-down fortress, before turning and stepping inside a nearby decrepit old building-- motioning for Raetos to follow, of course. 

From the look of it, the structure used to be a house. Possibly an inn. The mantleplace was the only part still more or less intact. Floorboards were warped and uneven, stairs were chipped and eroded, and the only furnishings left  were a well-built table, a few chairs, and a faded chaise lounge that probably looked really fancy in its prime. She drew Rokaa from its holster with a light flourish, spinning it once before she leaned it against the fireplace. Then, she drew a small cloth from her inner pocket.

“I’m not surprised Argonas is upset. You spoke with him, then?” she asked, as she began to wipe the paint off her thigh. “I’m not pleased it took Khanaros’ orders to keep him from interfering, but I suppose it’s preferable over sending him to join his wife directly…”

Raetos’ tail swayed as he followed the Ebon Knight into the tiny inn. He still couldn’t get over how small humans built things… still, it would do well enough. He walked over and placed his rifle down next to the hammer, before drawing his sword and doing the same.

“Oh, those orders aren’t gonna stop him,” he chuckled, shaking his head, “Bumped into him at the bar. He told me all about it. I had to talk him out of hunting you down, despite the Grand Vindicator’s orders. Bought you some time, telling him I’d keep an eye on you and report any illegal activity you might be doing out here.”

He shot her a smirk, “So, you’re welcome.”

“Mm, I’m so sure.” Avehi rolled her eyes, as she finished wiping down her legplate.

Next came the tabard, which she knew would be harder to clean. Still, it had to be done before the stain set. She pulled it up over her head, and laid it out on the table. She pressed her hand to the paint splotch, palm growing cold with icy power. The paint solidified, and became easy enough to slowly scrape off in solid chunks before setting into the fabric.

“I know Argonas well. A command from Khanaros is the end of it, for him.” she nodded. “What did he really say about all this?”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought, too. But the guy has gone unhinged! He thinks you and Mierne are working together and are controlling the High Vindicator. He feels it’s his duty to deal out justice because he accuses Khanaros of being unable to make proper decisions because of Mierne. The guy is going rogue. Gotta say that Mierne chick sounds hot. Did you know she seduced Argonas on more than one occasion?”

“Mm, I’m well aware…”

She continued chipping off the last of the paint from her tabard, casually. Waiting for Raetos to chuckle and finally tell her what really happened. But as the silence drew out between them, she turned, brow furrowed.

“... You’re serious, then? Argonas really thinks that?” 

She set her tabard aside, and stepped towards the Lightforged.

“What exactly did he tell you?”

Raetos blinked, looking confused, “I just told you. He said the High Vindicator’s judgement is skewed because of his relationship with Mierne. He told me that it was up to us to bring about ‘the Light’s justice’ ourselves. I told him he couldn’t just go against orders and had to be patient. I told him the best course of action was for him to stay put, because everyone knows how emotional he’s being about all this, and in exchange, I would stay close to you and report any illegal activity, creepy raising corpses excluded, obviously.”

He went about removing his shoulder gear, followed by his gauntlets.

“I mean, you want his exact words?”

He puffed up his chest, placing his hands on his hips and giving his best Argonas impression.

“The High Vindicator is not of sound judgment in this matter! He is far too close to the issue to be impartial! It falls to us to do what he is unwilling to do. It is our responsibility to see justice is met, Raetos!”

He shot Avehi a grin, “How was that?”

Avehi blinked. She nodded slowly, unable to help but be impressed by Raetos’ eerily accurate impression of Argonas. She almost had a mind to put that incredible mimicry to better use, if she weren’t so upset with the subject at the moment...

“Pretty good, I guess.” she shrugged. “But that doesn’t bode well. If he’s so upset that he’s willing to go against the High Vindicator about this…”

She trailed off, continuing the thought internally. Raetos was right; he was clearly unhinged if he was considering such possibilities! The Light was dangerous enough, but Avehi had put faith in Khanaros, at least, limiting how it was deployed. But if an emotionally unstable Vindicator like Argonas was talking about starting to take the Light’s justice into his own hands, that was dangerous. For everyone. She sighed; only one clear solution came to mind. Argonas was too dangerous to be kept alive.

Her gaze flickered back to Raetos, as a soft smile crossed her lips.

“You… did that for me? Talked him down so he wouldn’t keep coming after me, himself?” she asked, stepping in a little closer to Raetos. “Thank you, Raetos. Truly. That means… well. It means quite a bit, that you’d intervene on my behalf.”

The Lightforge’s face flushed, and he brought a hand behind his head. His tail swayed widely behind him in excitement, knocking over a chair.

“Well… I mean. I enjoy spending time with you. And while I admit I don’t understand a thing about all this world of the dead and raising people business, if the High Vindicator thinks it’s worth looking into, then so do I. I don’t want to see you hurt, and if staying close to you means keeping Argonas off your trail for a while, then win-win, right? Temporary, I know. But… gives us time.”

A mixture of emotions fell over Avehi. Flattery and gratitude, of course. But spoiling them both came a sense of worry. Of concern, aside from the new ones brought on by this information about Argonas. No, concern that perhaps Raetos was taking things too seriously between them. Just what was he expecting through all this? She had begun to enjoy the time they spent together as well, but… she couldn’t see herself going to such lengths to prolong the time and opportunities for them to meet up and get intimate with one another.

All these feelings, of course, remained well hidden behind her facade. She remained smiling softly as she beheld the Lightforged, glowing like a beacon in the dimly-lit and run-down house. She tried to put it from her mind, instead electing to believe he was simply being selfish; maneuvering amongst Argonas and others to maximize his chances to get laid. Surely that was part of - hopefully all - he was going to such lengths to accomplish. And for his efforts, he surely earned one such chance here and now.

Without another word, she stepped in, pressing her cold, plated body against his as she claimed his lips with a kiss. Her hand came up behind his head, fingers gripping at his hair to pull him into the intimate gesture. Her other slipped to his side, tugging at his girdle while she began to grind her hips against his. This was all she really wanted with him. And all he really wanted with her, too.

… Right?

[miernethepersevering]

Awakening

((Story takes place shortly before the events of The Eternal Palace raid. Co-written with Khanaros’ player, @thefugitivemango​ . @avehi-the-adamant​ / @argonas​ for character mention ))

~*~*~

Mierne’s head was flooded with nightmares. Her mind was finally free, but still reeling from being under zoatroid control. She remained unconscious for weeks after being returned to the Exodar; the combination of Shamanism and soothing Light treatments kept her spirit intact and guided her gently to the waking world. 

She couldn’t recall how she’d ended up becoming a prisoner of the naga, nor much of anything soon before that. There was no way of telling where her memories ended and where the mind scrambling began. The shadow tendrils on her mind ran deep, and would take months to heal. 

The Shaman stirred in her sleep, rolling over to her side and reaching a hand out. She found another there to take hold of and squeeze. Her features relaxed. The hand felt familiar, and she opened her eyes to look upon a sight she didn’t expect. A Lightforged Draenei sat at her bedside. He was unfamiliar at first glance, but, as her sleepy eyes came into focus, theface became one she knew. The Lightforging has changed the Vindicator’s appearance; he looked younger, his eyes were gold and his beard was longer, but there was no mistaking her oldest and closest friend.

“Kh-Khana...ros?” She starred, clearly confused.

The Lightforged’s eyes shot open in an instant. He sat up, seeming to have begun to doze off in the chair at Mierne’s bedside. His hand squeezed, a smile gracing his lips for what felt like the first time in weeks.

“--Mierne, thank the Light!” Khanaros exclaimed. “Easy, now. You have been sleeping for a while.”

His other hand reached for a large vessel, almost resembling a vase. He brought it gently to Mierne, bidding her to take it for herself.

“Drink this.” he implored her, tone neither demanding nor pressing. “It will soothe your throat, and rehydrate you.”

The liquid within the vessel was water… and something else. A dissolved powder, perhaps? It had a fruity smell to it, appealing in its own right despite the odd coloration. There was no hesitation on Mierne’s behalf. Her movements were slow, but she reached for the concoction, lifting her head just enough to bring it to her lips and drink it in little sips. It was surprisingly sweet, but not so much as to be sickening. Her eyes closed briefly as she felt its rejuvenating effects. She had to force herself not to gulp it all down too fast. The Shaman hadn’t realized just how thirsty she was until that moment.

She paced herself, keeping silent as she slowly but surely took in all of the vessel’s contents. She couldn’t help but side eye Khanaros as she did, however; the change in him was drastic. How long had she been sleeping? When had he Lightforged?! It suited him, certainly, but what a sudden change!

She cleared her throat, finally finding her voice again to ask one of the many questions running through her head.

“What… what happened?”

“Naga took you.” he replied, plainly and honestly. “Just before the seas opened up, and swallowed the Alliance and Horde fleets. Vindicator Argonas and Vindicator Avehi were sent down, and rescued you.”

Khanaros reached to take the vessel from Mierne when she had finished it, instead replacing it with a nutrient loaf - a small brown bread-like substance, unwrapped and ready for Mierne to eat at her own pace. It smelled… bland. Far less appealing than the liquid, but every bit as fortifying. 

“You are safe now… recovering well, physically,” he reported, smile clearly forced. “But… there can be no telling yet the extent of the psychological damage done to you. The Naga used some void creature known as a zoatroid to wrack your mind and alter your thoughts and behaviors. They… enslaved you, Mierne.”

The words almost seemed to hurt him as he spoke them, a hand reaching out to rest atop Mierne’s leg. Worry crossed his wrinkled face; worry and fear. He was eternally grateful Mierne was safe… but he knew this was only the beginning of her recovery.

Mierne nibbled on the bread given to her as she listened intently to Khanaros’ words. She frowned as she came to realize that not everything she’d dreamed about had been fabrication. She swallowed down a bite.

“I… vaguely remember some of it…” she admitted, “I thought it was a nightmare.”

She sighed, shoulders slumping. The thought of things she’d might have done under zoatroid control made her lose her appetite. She put the rest of the loaf down on the side table, before bringing a hand to her head. Trying to recollect things gave her a migraine. 

“Let us… let us speak of other things,” she requested, her eyes meeting his golden gaze once more, “I wasn’t aware that you had Lightforged. When did this happen?”

“--Hm? Ah… it was after our discussion at the Darkshore,” he replied, tone hiding well his concerns now - for her sake, he felt it best. “You don’t recall? It is fine if you do not… after all you have endured, it is easily excusable.”

Khanaros smiled, and gave Mierne’s leg another supportive, comforting squeeze. There was no question this was difficult for him. To see his beloved Mierne so scattered? To hear that she didn’t remember things? But for a hard as it was for him, he couldn’t begin to comprehend how hard it must’ve been for her. He did his best to keep that in mind.

“What do you recall? From before Nazjatar?” he asked. “We can start there, and I will do my best to fill in the rest. And separate truth from fiction. Alright?”

“Honestly? I am uncertain. I remember coming to visit you, as usual, after the Legion was defeated. I remember Argonas moving to the isle… Avehi coming to visit me… I -do- remember being in Darkshore, but as for why…”

She shook her head, “Naga and murloc populations increased on the isle… Are we at War again? Or was that a nightmare? And Teldrassil burning?”

She shrugged, but then could help but chuckle, “Fairly certain you and I getting engaged did not actually happen.” She laughed, “I mean… can you imagine?! That would be crazy!”

“Sadly, the war-related memories are all true. We--”

It struck him like a blade, as the words crossed Mierne’s lips. The laugh didn’t help, either. He suspected a while back she wasn’t fully on board with the engagement, but those concerns were softened when they made plans further to move in together. But… that, too, was probably not something she was interested in. Something else ‘crazy’, like getting engaged. His shoulders sank, though his smile remained - forced, of course.

“Heh, quite crazy!” he nodded along. “We haven’t made such plans, no.”

The lie tasted bitter in Khanaros’ mouth, however. Would it be better to tell her the truth? No, it was better for her to get her bearings, and recall her life as she wished it to be. Normal for Mierne didn’t include forecasting their nuptials, it seemed.

Mierne was visibly relieved. It wasn’t that she didn’t  have feelings towards her dearest and oldest friend. But marriage? Their lives were much too incompatible for things to go any further than their usual casual intimate encounters.

“--The war, though… it rages. Teldrassil did, in fact, burn by the Warchief’s order.” he frowned, now that the topic changed appropriately to do so. “This is why we went to Darkshore.”

It began to make sense to Mierne; why she had been in Darkshore. The enemy had been too close for comfort. She had to do what she could to protect the Exodar and the Isles!

“That explains the Lightforging, then,” she brought a hand up, fingers brushing his beard as she admired his changed features. “You look good. Really good,” she couldn’t help but smile, “This path suits you.”

The affections, of course, made Khanaros happy. But undertones behind it did little to stave off the great sense of loss he was feeling. This was more than just a setback in her memory… it was a setback in their relationship, as well. It hurt him deeply, in a way he couldn’t express.

He couldn’t let that show, of course. Instead, he plastered on a smiling expression, and nodded. 

“I’m pleased you still think so. We discussed it, before I underwent the trials. I worried you would not find me nearly as pleasing to the eye, so grossly incandescent.”

He let out a chuckle - a convincing one, considering. 

“But… yes, with the war continuing on as it has been, I felt Lightforging would be an appropriate means of coming out of retirement.”

“Indeed!” She chuckled, finally removing her hand to reach for the food she hadn’t yet finished. 

She was already looking stronger; her eyes more luminous and colour returning to her cheeks. Markings were left along the side of her face where the zoatroid had clung and been ripped off. The wounds would most likely leave scars, but, for now, Mierne seemed oblivious to them. Just as well. It was doubtful she would care. The hermit had never been one to fuss over her appearance. 

“And here I am keeping you from your duties… I hope I didn’t take too much of your time off the field.”

"Not at all. I am mostly a strategist these days, helping direct forces rather than fight on the front, directly." 

He shook his head, giving Mierne's leg one final squeeze before pulling his hand back. He stood.

"I would not burden you with details." He left it at that, planting a light kiss on her scarred cheek. "For now, rest. Recover. I will come by again later to see how you are feeling, yes?"

It grew too much for him - not just seeing her like this, but learning how much of her memory she had lost. Khanaros worried deeply for Mierne, of course. But he also worried about what this manner of regression could mean for their relationship. Suddenly, they weren’t engaged anymore. Suddenly, they weren’t living together anymore!

“Recover well, Mierne.” was all he could muster to say.

[avehi-the-adamant]

Into the Breach - Finale

| Avehi’s Prelude | Argonas’ Prelude | Pt. I | Pt. II | Pt. III | Pt. IV | 

Quickly as she could, Avehi slipped behind a pillar. The Naga responded quickly, that was for sure! The one that escaped must have called reinforcements in to sweep the ruins and finish her and Argonas off. She scowled; if Argonas had managed to finish off that one that escaped, this wouldn’t have happened! She peeked around from the pillar… but saw nothing. A look closer would give away her position, and she wasn’t sure how many there were. Had they already gotten Argonas? Or by storming off, had he inadvertently evaded them? It didn’t matter - she could take them. She could take them all.

Silently, she slipped her hammer down from her back into her waiting hands as the steps grew closer and-- ‘Steps?’ she realized. Naga didn’t walk. They slithered! This didn’t sound like any naga at all. In fact, it sounded a lot like hoofsteps. Too light to be Argonas’, however. Could it be? 

‘...Mierne?’

There was only one way to know for certain. Avehi quietly peered out from behind the pillar once more, to see the intruder. It wasn’t a Naga, but… it wasn’t Mierne either. 

“--Sina?”

Sure enough, by some coincidence, Sinafay had wandered upon her! The two blinked at one another, surprised and confused to see each other in such a place! 

"Avehi?"

“What are you doing down here?” the Death Knight asked, as she stepped down from the ledge and sheathed her hammer.

Sinafay shook her head, seemingly exhausted from simply recalling all that had transpired! She let out a light sigh.

“Well... “ she shrugged. “I was on a boat and a hole opened up in the ocean so…”

"--Aah... you were on that ship? Tch..." Avehi frowned. “Not ideal... Glad you're okay, at least.”

Unsurprising - Sinafay had been working with the Seventh Legion a while now. But to bump into her here and now, immediately following that heated conversation with Argonas was… alarming. Sinafay nodded, seeming relieved to see another familiar face in such a dour place.

"Indeed. This was an unexpected detour.” she understated. “Sylaess is here too, but... I was unaware you were on the ship as well."

“I wasn’t.” Avehi shook her head. “I had High Vindicator Khanaros beam me down here."

Her expression curdled, unable to help but morph into a scowl.

“The Naga... they took Mierne.”

Sinafay’s luminous eyes widened a bit… as her brow raised both to compensate widening eyes, and in some small measure of confusion. She couldn’t quite place the name…

"Mierne... who is that again?"

The Death Knight scoffed a bit. 

“My friend. My shaman friend, remember?” she snapped, as if it should have been obvious! “I know I've talked about her to you!”

“Oh! The one Argo slept with?” Sinafay replied.

‘Sure. That she remembers…’ Avehi thought to herself.

“The very one.” Avehi said aloud. “--Aah, speaking of, he's down here too.”

“Oh?” Sinafay replied, seeming both excited… and worried. 

A part of why she had embarked on a Seventh Legion mission was to distance herself from Argonas a bit, and distract herself from the pregnancy. It came as a surprise, to be sure - for both of them. She simply needed some time to process it, grow accustomed to it… and accept it. Especially after…

"He's scouting ahead around here, somewhere." Avehi added, breaking Sinafay’s train of thought. 

A welcome deviation, all the same. Sinafay didn’t want to dwell on it too long. Especially in a place like this.She nodded, looking off into the distance. 

"Here to rescue her as well, I assume?" she inquired.

“At the High Vindicator's direction.” Avehi all but scoffed, shaking her head. “Personally, I don't need him. He's slowing me down."

“You will think differently when the naga begin to swarm.”

“Perhaps so.” Avehi shrugged, joining Sinafay in gazing out across the alien landscape. “I’m tearing down that keep over there brick by brick either way.”

Sinafay gave Avehi a tired grin. The Death Knight’s arrogance was amusing, in a way. She wondered if Argonas was sent along with Avehi to make sure she didn’t get herself killed. Again.

"He is also good at assuring you will not rush into situations blindly."

“Hmph!” Avehi scoffed! “You sure about that? He seems to have rushed into this little situation blindly…”

She motioned to Sinafay - specifically, her midsection. It wasn’t too hard to realize to what she was referring - a topic Sinafay wasn’t keen on discussing. Her expression changed immediately to one of hurt. She turned, stepping closer to a pillar and leaning against it, tail dragging behind her.

"That was my fault.” she said, somberly. “He was taking precautions. I was not."

“Clearly neither of you were.” Avehi retorted, skeptically.

“He was taking herbal tea.”

"If he were taking the tea, you wouldn't be pregnant. Isn't that the point of the tea?”

“Nothing is one hundred percent effective.” Sinafay sighed, knowing that well, now. “Perhaps if we both had been taking it, but…”

"--Now you're trapped down here, carrying his baby…” Avehi interrupted. “I guess he's slowing both of us down, in different ways.This works out, though. When he sees you, he'll come stay with you down here, and I can press on with finding Mierne.”

"Are you done?" Sinafay asked, shooting Avehi a nasty look.

“--Settle down, I'm joking.” Avehi replied with a light shrug. “... Sort of.”

“Are you?”

“Yes, yes…” the Death Knight waved a hand - apparently she’d irked her friend. “He's actually keeping pace with me pretty well, for a living person."

Sinafay's tail flickered, before she relaxed slightly. She went back to looking out over the terrace.

"You were paired up for a reason.” she counseled. “Whether you like each other or not, you need to work together to help rescue your friend."

Avehi sighed - Sinafay was right. The High Vindicator didn’t know Argonas had any personal connection to Mierne. He selected him to join Avehi on this important mission all the same. She knew Khanaros wasn’t a fool. Even in an emotionally charged situation like this, she knew he had the tactical details in the forefront of his mind. Argonas was clearly a good pick for this. And as much as she hated admitting it… it was never a bad idea to have back-up.

"... Maybe.” she admitted, spitting out the word as if she wished to keep it in her mouth forever. “I suppose it wouldn't be bad, having someone watch my back. Just in case? I mean… it didn't do his wife any good on Argus, but…”

Avehi shrugged. 

"I'm already dead."

Sinafay sighed. Heavily. That subject was touchy as well, but… Avehi wasn’t exactly wrong. She opted to ignore the comment. 

“What's the situation down here, Alliance-wise? They have a base set up, I presume?” Avehi glanced to Sinafay, inquisitively changing the subject. "Or are you and Sylaess the only ones who made it?"

“There are ruins to the southwest of the maw. Survivors are taking care of injured and gathering what supplies they can salvage.” Sinafay reported. “We have allies.... fish-like people. I forget what it is they are called. But they were battling the naga before we arrived.”

“Mm. 'The enemy of my enemy...'” Avehi nodded once, letting the quote trail off. “Argonas and I should stop by, I suppose. He'll need rest, at some point."

“A good place to recharge for certain.” Sinafay agreed. “Those of us who were fortunate enough to come out uninjured were sent out to explore and secure footholds.”

“Makes sense. What are the options for avenues out of here?” The Death Knight followed up, eyes cast to the sky. “Beaming down here from the Vindicaar was a one-way trip. We don't have a return beacon or anything... and we'll need to get Mierne home immediately.”

She clenched her fists.

"No telling what those savage Naga are doing to her..."

“Some of the battle-mages are attempting to create a portal to Boralus.” Sinafay looked to Avehi, brow askew. “...Do you know why your friend was taken? I thought she lived away from all this, on the Isles.”

Avehi hesitated in answering that, going quiet for a moment - oddly stoic, even for her. Her tail flickered once or twice, as she debated confiding in Sinafay. What would she think of her? Her lichfire eyes looked over other Vindicator. Why was she worried? Sinafay was her friend. The type of friend she could tell anything to, honestly and candidly. 

“Did she join the war?” Sinafay began guessing, bridging the awkward silence. “Was she taken from the boat?”

“... Can I tell you a secret, Sister?”

"Who am I going to tell?" Sinafay asked, with a shrug.

"It's my fault."

The Lightforged raised her brow at Avehi.

"How so?"

“Did I... tell you about Nedemus' relic? The one the Ebon Blade is after?”

“I do not believe so.” she shook her head. “...Nedemus is the dog you sleep with, yes?

The worgen I used to sleep with.” Avehi corrected, quickly. “I've found--”

She cut short, before shaking her head. That wasn’t important. 

"... That's another story." she dismissed the thought. “But... this relic... it's empowering, yes? And... he gave it to me, for safe keeping.”

“You gave to Mierne, then?” Sinafay began guessing once more.

“No, no... I…” Avehi frowned, shoulder slumping. “I used it. I went to the Isles... I killed... so many Naga…”

The icy blue flames of her eyes flickered excitedly at the recollection. Despite the repercussions… she enjoyed doing that. Sinafay noticed - her own tail flickered a bit, in concern… but she listened on nonetheless.

“The rest ran away... so I left. I hid the relic, and thought nothing of it.” Avehi continued, before shaking her head. “But they came back. In force."

“Oh.” Sinafay frowned, as she pieced the rest together, slowly. “--Oooh… I see.”

“She... fought them off as well as she could, I'm sure, but…” Avehi nodded slowly, looking out across Nazjatar. “They took her. Down here, somewhere."

“Well…” Sinafay was at a loss for any response - and probably should’ve kept it that way. “At least I know I am not the only one who can fuck things up.”

“--This isn't the same.” Avehi snapped. “Her life is at risk.”

"Bah.” Sinafay smiled, confidently. “I have faith you and Argo can rescue her."

“That…” Avehi's stern expression softened. “... is appreciated, actually. Thank you. So far, I've just been so focused on it, worrying if I'm up to the task. Argonas has been no help with that, either. We're constantly bickering... I don't know what you see in him, frankly.”

She paused a moment, then shrugged. She remembered now.

"Besides his body."

“He is honorable, patient and loyal.” Sinafay said, matter-of-factly. “He is amazing to fight alongside with in battle. A great teacher…”

Her eyes welled up…

"...And he is willing to stay with me through this..."

“Hmph. Of course he is.” the Death Knight huffed. “He loves you.”

“We do not love each other.” Sinafay corrected. “That is for certain. He loves his dead wife. And I…”

Sinafay trailed off, emotions building up. Avehi caught notice of it, and glanced sidelong to her friend - brow askew. 

“You what?"

No words came out… only tears. Sinafay began sobbing heavily, tears glistening in the illumination of her eyes as they streamed down those pale cheekbones of hers. Avehi fidgeted uncomfortably. This was the part of friendships she hated. Even in life, she was never very skilled at comforting people. Except men, in only one or two certain ways, but… that wouldn’t help her here. She stepped closer to Sinafay, and gave a single, gentle tap on her plated pauldron. Nailed it.

“Tch... there, there…” she said, mustering all the caring tone she could. “This is... just hormones, yes? Flaring up your emotions…”

“--I had love! I had it... and and... and he left me!” Sinafay exploded in lamentation.

"What?” Avehi blinked. “What're you talking about?"

Sinafay removed her gauntlets and started wiping the tears from her eyes - a folly task, at this point, as more and more tears streamed down her face.

"On Draenor... we fell in love... on Draenor... and now it is over... and I am alone...." she sobbed. “He... he travelled time and space to come rescue me... brought me here. We were supposed to be together... when the war ended... together in Pandaria... but then he found out about the baby…”

Avehi blinked again! She shook her head, brow furrowed in confusion. Nothing Sinafay said was making sense. She’d never mentioned a lover before. Definitely not one that saved her from captivity.

"Wait... I thought you said some Orc saved you from Dra--" she stopped, as it clicked. “...enor…”

Sinafay winced, sobbing slowing only slightly as she looked up at Avehi with eyes wide. She’d let it slip, inadvertently…

"Please, do not tell Argonas.... do not tell anyone..."

“You're in love... with…” Avehi spoke lowly. “An Orc.”

Sinafay hesitated, but nodded after a moment. It was too late, now.

“... His name is Grakkar.”

Avehi found herself at a loss for words. Of all the things she’d expected to hear, that certainly wasn’t one of them! She remembered in her youth, before the Orcs and Draenei were at odds with one another, a few of her friends would talk about them fondly. It was something of a taboo back then too, of course, but that made it all the more alluring. But even back then, Avehi never saw the appeal. Now… even less so. She had no idea what to say. No idea how to react. Sinafay seriously went from being enamored with a strong and handsome - albeit conceited and arrogant - Draenei Vindicator… to falling in love with some savage orc mongrel? Her lip snarled in disgust, as she shook her head.

“... Gross.”

Sinafay growled. She expected a response like that was possible, but had hoped Avehi would at least have the decency to keep it to herself in a moment like this! She turned and faced Avehi - face contorted into a tear-glazed scowl!

"Can you NOT right now?!"

“--I'm sorry! I find out my friend is in love with an orc, and I'm not allowed to comment?” the Death Knight raised her hands, defensively. 

She shook her head, and sighed - Again, Sinafay was right. This wasn’t the time. She had disclosed something personal to her, just as she’d done earlier about Mierne. Avehi knew she could hold her tongue, and let her friend vent. She looked at Sinafay, somewhat apologetically.

"--Fine, fine, not the time..." she conceded, as she brought a finger to her lips in a hushing gesture. "Your secret's safe with me."

Sinafay grumbled lowly, agitated and hormonal. Avehi’s poor response already sank in, setting the Lightforged into a sour mood. She huffed at the Death Knight. 

“...You fuck dead worgen, but an Orc is where you draw the line?!” she muttered.

Avehi’s tail flickered, eyes narrowing. Restraint became all that much harder to keep.

“--That's way different, first of all…” she began…

Sinafay simply stared at Avehi.

"Dead. Worgen."

Again, the Death Knight’s tail flickered. She clenched her plated fists, air around her growing cold.

“I am dead. You may have noticed.” she replied, through grit teeth. “So don't say 'dead' like it's some horrible trait. I already know. Thanks.”

She pointed a frosted finger at Sinafay, accusingly, as she leaned in. 

“Second - at least worgen are sentient, allied creatures. Orcs are simple savages! It's like saying you fell in love with a Naga!” she exclaimed. “Or a Murloc!”

That was too far. Sinafay snapped. She gave up EVERYTHING defending the Orcs, keeping them from her people’s oppressive overreach! For Avehi to refer to them as anything less than equal was a grievous affront! She reached down, grabbed one of the gauntlets she’d removed, and threw it with force at Avehi’s face!

"Do NOT call them that!"

Avehi didn’t flinch - the gauntlet struck true, slapping the undead Vindicator across her icy face, before it fell harmlessly to the ground at her hooves. Her fists clenched, eyes flaring - then… 

“... Kill her…”

Avehi blinked. She’d never heard the Hunger’s voice so clearly in her mind before. It was jarring, far more so than the actual strike Sinafay had landed on her. She felt like she did in days long past… those days interrogating Scarlet Crusaders, or striking down Argent footmen. 

She felt like a monster.

Her tail began to intermittently flicker, to and fro in no pattern or rhythm. Her expression hid it all - the shock, the confusion, the shame… she simply shook her head, turning away from Sinafay.

“... I don't have time for this.” she muttered. “You're hormonal. And... whatever he is... you loved him, and he dumped you. I know that can't be easy.”

Sinafay looked confused, and disappointed. Clearly, she was ready for some manner of retaliation. But… not that. She reached down as Avehi stepped away, and picked up her gauntlet. With a snarl, she backed up to the ledge once more, and sat upon the low wall beside the pillar. She was fuming… and now had no outlet for it. 

"Brood about it somewhere safe.” Avehi advised, voice level and impassive as if reading instructions aloud. “Get home as soon as you can. I'll send Argonas your way, to cheer you up."

‘Clearly I can’t...’  she thought to herself.

Sinafay just shook her head in silence, going about wiping fresh tears from her face. She had nothing more to say to Avehi. And the feeling was mutual. Avehi strode off without another word. She had other business here, anyway...

~*~

((Adapted RP logs between myself and @kidcatgemini / @sinafay-the-defiant, @sinafay1, and @miernethepersevering belong to her. @sylaess & @nedemus for mention))

[avehi-the-adamant]

Into the Breach Pt. III

| Avehi’s Prelude | Argonas’ Prelude | Pt. I | Pt. II |

The pair of Vindicators materialized one after the other, both coming to in something of a daze. For Argonas, the smell of the recently-exposed ocean floor was excessively pungent. For Avehi, the trip itself was painful. She’d teleported via the Light plenty of times on Argus. And every time, it left her feeling as if she were on fire. She shook it off a lot faster than Argonas acclimated to the smell - that didn’t bother Avehi at all. She had smelled much worse.

The Vindicaar’s teleporter deposited the two just outside the ruins of some long-drowned elven structures - perhaps once the city itself, before the ocean claimed it. Neither Avehi nor Argonas knew enough of elf history to be certain one way or another. Khanaros had arranged the quick transit down, since sailing and falling into a huge pit seemed inefficient given their timetable. He made it clear though - it was a one way trip down. The Vindicators would have to find Mierne, and make their own way out. 

“Do you have any idea where we are?” Argonas asked, once he stifled his gagging enough to speak.

“The ocean floor.” Avehi replied plainly, as she looked around.

The area was as alien as any foreign world she’d ever seen! The landscape was uneven, strange… inhospitable. It was clear they didn’t belong in this place. Avehi hoped their time here would be short…

“Hmph.” Argonas scoffed. “Obviously.”

“You asked.” she shrugged. “I know as much as you do of this place.”

She unsheathed her hammer from her back, and began to move into the nearby ruins. They weren’t going to find Mierne standing still, after all. Argonas huffed, shaking his head at the attitude he was getting from Avehi. He knew she was upset by all this - a captured friend was more than enough to make anyone irritable. But he knew that was only part of it - they didn’t get along before she learned Mierne was taken. He drew his crystalline blade, and followed after her.

The ruins weren’t extensive. It seemed they housed only a few crabs now, rather than the highborne inhabitants that likely lived here in ages past. As they explored the ruins quietly, they made it to a clearing - an overlook, where they could see the rest of the exposed seafloor in all its glory. Both of them looked out, stunned at both the beauty, mysticism, and horror, all mixed together in one single view. Avehi narrowed her eyes, as she pointed to a large group of structures northwest of them - these structures were different than the more familiar Highborne ruins.

“There.” she said, plainly. “That looks like naga territory. Mierne must be there.”

She wasted no time, pressing on in that direction without waiting to see if Argonas would follow. He did, of course, trailing not far behind her as he took in the view.

“Vindicator Avehi… I have been meaning to ask.” he started, tentatively.

“Speak your piece.” she replied, curtly, without even turning to look at him.

“I get how you and Mierne know one another. But… what did High Vindicator Khanaros mean when he--”

“They’re engaged.”

Argonas gasped - rapidly breathing in a salty breath of seafloor smell. He choked, coughing and wheezing in response, before regaining his composure a moment later. Avehi kept her eyes dead ahead… but smirked.

“T-Truly?” he followed up, clearing his throat. “How long has that been so?”

She glanced back, flashing a fanged grin at Argonas - it was unsettling, to say the least. Moreso for him, having never seen her express anything but disgust, anger, or irritation. 

“Since before you two fucked.”

(( @miernethepersevering ))

[avehi-the-adamant]

Into the Breach - Pt. I

| Avehi’s Prelude | Argonas’ Prelude |

The two Vindicators looked one another over, staring each other down. They’d been at odds before; last time Avehi saw Argonas, he accused her mother of being a thief. She’d mostly gotten over that, once it was all explained… but his quickness to sling accusations left her with a bad impression of him. Argonas furrowed his brow at the icy reception - he was under the impression that all that was behind them. He shook his head, apologetically.

“I am sorry, I did not mean to interrupt your praying.” he said with the dip of his head. 

“--Praying?” Avehi spat back, as if the word itself were an insult. “I do not pray, Vindicator Argonas. Not to the Light. Not anymore.”

A mixture of anger and disappointment overcame Argonas’ face. So she wasn’t praying? Surely undeath dampened her spirits, but how could she so definitively turn away from the Light? He shook his head once more.

“Hmph. So be it…” he retorted, tone speaking his true reaction the words themselves weren’t. “If such is the case, why are you here at all?”

“Does my being here irk you so? Do you feel I defile these halls with my presence?” the Death Knight narrowed her lichfire eyes. “I was summoned here. Invited, by High Vindicator Khanaros.”

Argonas’ face couldn’t decide how it wanted to look, it seemed. First apologetic, then disappointed - now, surprised! He already wasn’t certain why the High Vindicator called him there… but now he was more perplexed as to why he would call them both! 

“Truly? He called upon me to come here, as well.” he told her. “Did he tell you what this was all about?”

Avehi folded her arms, tail swishing now more in irritation than anxiousness. She practically scowled at Argonas; the possibility she’d been called here to work with him on something gave her a headache. Or perhaps that was just from how bright it was in the Vault… she wasn’t sure which. Simply she shook her head.

“I presume he’ll tell us when he arrives.”

“She’s correct.”

The two Vindicators turned, facing High Vindicator Khanaros as he approached. His armor reflected and refracted the ambient light, causing him to glow majestically. It didn’t help that he, himself, was Lightforged - a fact both Argonas and Avehi were learning for the first time. Argonas immediately knelt down in reverence for his former mentor. Avehi was… less ceremonious. She continued crossing her arms, squinting as she looked the High Vindicator over. All she offered him was a subtle nod.

“High Vindicator.” she addressed him, cordially.

“High Vindicator!” Argonas echoed her, in a much more exalting tone. “We arrived as quickly as we could. We are honored you have called upon us.”

Avehi cast a glare at Argonas; one he wouldn’t see, so attentive to the ranking Vindicator present. She let out a light scoff. ‘Speak for yourself…’ she wanted to snap. But that would serve only to insult the High Vindicator… not so much Argonas. Instead, she simply nodded once more to Khanaros.

“For what reason have you called upon us?” she followed up, tone coming across as impatient, despite her efforts to maintain a respectful demeanor.

Khanaros looked troubled - excessively so. His face was wrinkled enough, being as old as he was… but it wrinkled further into a deep frown. A pained, worried frown, seeming to have been plastered to his face for some time. He let out a sigh, as he looked the two Vindicators over. 

“... Mierne has been taken.”

[argonas]

Into the Breach Pt. II

| Avehi’s Prelude | Argonas’ Prelude | Pt. I |

"Taken? What do you mean?" Avehi asked - rather, demanded - of the High Vindicator.

"Mind your tone!" Argonas quickly snapped, standing as he turned to Avehi. "You address th--"

"I know who it is I address, Argonas! Undeath has not robbed me of sight, only patience!" she snapped back, lichfire eyes flaring.

"Enough." Khanaros said simply, though his voice carried in such a commanding manner as to capture both the Vindicators' attention once more. "Avehi is concerned, as am I. Mierne means a great deal to both of us. That is why I called her here."

Argonas was taken aback - Mierne meant 'a great deal' to the High Vindicator? Why? How? What connection did those two have, he wondered? Avehi wondered something else - something much more pressing.

"Explain yourself, High Vindicator." she pressed - tone at least semi-respectful this time. 

"Two days ago, the Naga presence on the Azure Isles just… diminished." he explained, brow furrowed. "Hundreds, perhaps a thousand or so were simply culled - killed by something, or fleeing from it. No one is certain."

Avehi was. If she weren't so passively stoic, her expression might have given it away. She did that. She recalled the day well enough; the killing… sating her Hunger… the power that flowed through her as she wielded that artifact Nedemus had given her… it was exhilarating! Her brow furrowed nonetheless… she felt guilty for using it so, after all. But the power she felt from it… she couldn't resist it. And now, the High Vindicator called it to attention? Her mind raced, frantically. What unforeseen side effects did using the reluc in such a way have? And how did they involve Mierne…?

"This… is wondrous news." Argonas nodded. "The naga have threatened these Isles since before we set hoof upon them."

"It is… or rather, it was. The Isles saw peace from their kind for the first time that following day." The High Vindicator explained. "But the Naga returned the following day… with more than enough forces to compensate for such a dangerous threat."

Avehi's tail flickered. She started piecing it together…

"They quickly became too much for Mierne to handle alone. They… took her."

"Where?" Avehi asked, barely containing a snarl.

"I cannot say for certain…" Khanaros shook his head. "But not long after, a hole in the ocean itself opened up, and swallowed what remained of the Horde and Alliance fleets, both. It is said to be the work of Queen Azshara, ruler of the Naga. Their kingdom of Nazjatar has surfaced once more."

The High Vindicator scowled.

"That cannot be a coincidence."

"You believe she was taken to Nazjatar?" Argonas asked, incredulously. "Why? For what purpose?"

"Again, I cannot say for certain. But it stands to reason if the was valuable enough to them to take at all, she would be taken there, to the heart of their kingdom." Khanaros explained. "And with Nazjatar now accessible, this is our only chance to find her."

He stepped forward, placing a plated hand on Argonas' pauldron. He peered at the Vindicator - he saw the troubled past he carried, but sensed the Light had returned strongly within him. He nodded slowly.

"Argonas… I called you here because I know you to be a dependable soldier of the Light." He stated, sincerely. "You will go to Nazjatar, find Mierne, and deliver the Light's justice for taking her to the foul naga."

He then turned to Avehi.

"And Avehi… I know Mierne means a great deal to you. You mean a great deal to her, in return." He told her, dipping his head respectfully. "I would not dare impede you from recovering her. Rather… I wish to empower you to do so."

Avehi was quiet, stoic… a facade hiding the storm of thoughts and emotions that coursed through her. Mierne was taken, and it was her fault! She was so blinded by that power, she didn't consider such an obvious repercussion! Her eyes flickered to Khanaros, face finally expressing the only emotion she cared to focus on - determination.

"Then get me down there."

(( @miernethepersevering ))

[avehi-the-adamant]

In the Ashes of Teldrassil

(( Co-written with my RP partner, @kidcatgemini. Mierne belongs to her.))

The pitch-black moon hung ominously in the sky. A side effect of the ritual the Kaldorei High Priestess performed some week or so ago. It made it harder to see through  the already-dense trees and ominous shroud of ashes that remained in Darkshore… but Avehi managed. She’d had no issues so far finding the Horde forces here. Most of the time, they conveniently came to her! One by one, Horde soldiers crumbled beneath Rokaa - her rune-inscribed crystalline hammer. It was a dark reflection of the weapon she’d wielded in life, during her service as a Light-blessed Vindicator. She forged this new hammer using her practiced crystal forging techniques, as well as the runeforging she’d learned from the Ebon Blade. Fitting the newfound resolved she had found to continue her service to her people, she named the weapon ‘Undying Oath’. The hammer had spelled doom for countless enemies of the Draenei. From Twilight’s Hammer cultists, to Mantid of Pandaria, to even demons of the Burning Legion on Argus. Now, she used it to crush the Horde forces in Kalimdor - literally, in most cases.

She lifted her weapon up after the last of the Forsaken had fallen, with a displeased snarl. She derived no pleasure from killing Forsaken. Orcs, trolls, tauren… she could draw their life energy through combat, sating her Hunger for a time. But the Forsaken had no life energy to draw from, which only agitated Avehi more and more as the fighting went on. Still, she was quite proficient in slaying undead monsters like them. The war against the Scourge gave her plenty of invested experience in taking them down for good.

The Vindicator looked around, cautiously. The woods were eerily still along the coastline. She suspected the group she’d taken down wasn’t the last. Her plated hand gripped her hammer tightly, as she assumed a battle stance. Something was coming… she could smell the blighted Forsaken blood on the wind. She was ready.

What came leaping out of the woods was not a Forsaken, but a ghostly wolf… though it held the disembodied arm of a Forsaken in its mouth. It didn’t even seem to notice Avehi as it turned and perked up its ears, as if listening for something. The sound of a body falling, a flame trap going off, followed by horrible screaming that eventually died out seemed to satisfy the creature. It dropped the arm and turned to leave…

And jumped back with a yelp of surprise as it finally saw the death knight. Immediately, it shifted to a familiar Draenei form, a hand placed over her chest in shock.

“By the Earth Mother, you gave me a fright!” Mierne exclaimed.

Avehi couldn’t help but chuckle at Mierne’s reaction - she’d never gotten the jump on her before! She chuckled lightly, covering her mouth with her hand, before shaking her head.

“Apologies, Mierne. I suppose I’m more subtle than I used to be.”

She looked around once more, tail swaying smoothly behind her. Her agitation seemed to settle in the presence of her long-time friend, but that didn’t mean she’d lowered her guard at all. From what she could tell, they’d cleared out most of the nearby enemies between the two of them. Avehi looked to Mierne once again, and nodded.

“It is good to see you. Even out here.” she dipped her head. “Though, I’m somewhat surprised to see you outside of Bloodmyst.”

“I felt I had to do something after the burning of Teldrassil,” Mierne answered as she looked off towards where the large tree once was, “When word came that Tyrande was pushing back, it felt like the right time to join the battle in my own way.”

She turned her attention back to her friend, giving her a sheepish smile. It was obvious she was a bit out of place in a war zone. She’d already let her guard down.

“Not on the front lines, of course. But leading the Horde through traps and gathering provisions,” she continued, “Kharanos is here as well. I was going to meet him soon at the Alliance stronghold. Did you wish to join me?”

“--Vindicator Khanaros? He’s here?”

Her own reaction surprised Avehi. But she couldn’t help but feel a rushing return of long-buried feelings surface abruptly. She wasn’t prepared for it, frankly. Some years ago, during her Vindicator training, she developed something of a crush for Vindicator Khanaros. He wasn’t like others she typically got involved with - he was mature, stoic… steely. She recalled fantasizing about him rather often back in those days; such fantasies keeping her breathless and warm on countless nights. But it was nothing more than that. Merely a childish crush on an older Draenei male. They’d met, of course. And spoke briefly on an occasion or two. But so fleeting were their interactions… She hoped he would still remember her.

Even as she was now...

“As you say, Mierne.” she nodded once, letting the sudden resurgence of her adolescent feelings settle once again. “Let’s not keep your fiance waiting, yes? Lead the way.”

She hefted her hammer up over her shoulder, and followed Mierne to the Alliance holding in Bashal’aran.

Mierne couldn’t help but blush slightly as she followed Avehi. She still wasn’t used Khanaros being referred as such. It was hard to tell if she ever would. She still had time to think on it still, especially now that they’d agreed to slow things down a bit. Nothing had changed other than how people referred to the as.

~*~

Vindicator Khanaros shifted his weight from one hoof to the other, as he watched the treeline through narrowed eyes. Returning to a battlefield environment had been easy enough - some things you never unlearn. His crystalline hammer felt heavy, yet natural in his hands. His plated armor fit just as it always had, like a second skin. He watched, stoically, along the treeline due north. A simple glance in passing at the war table in the Sentinel’s Command Tent was enough to tell him everything he needed to know about Darkshore. The Horde had holdings both north and south of them. Much closer north, however. Were he a gambling man, he’d bet the next attack would come from there - and he was more than ready for it. The last good fight he’d had was some time ago, on Argus. And he was itching for another. Again - some things you never unlearn.

His tail flickered, however, as he turned to face the southern ramp up into the Bashal’aran compound. An aura of undeath wafted from that direction. Were the Forsaken coming up? A scout, perhaps? He snarled, and began hoofing that direction - hammer already aglow with vindictive Light.

Mierne and Avehi breached the tree line on the south side of the camp just as Khanaros began making his way over. They’d traveled mostly in silence, not wanting to alert any possible hord scouts of their presence. Noticing his serious expression and the way he was stomping over, Mierne couldn’t help but look over her shoulder to see if they had perhaps been followed.

She saw nothing. Her tail twitched nervously as she listened for any tell tale sounds from the forest, but the only sound that she could pick up were that of the heavily armoured Vindicator. She turned her attention back to him.

“Khan,” she greeted him warmly, though with a hint of worry in her voice, “Is something wrong?”

Avehi exhibited no such nervousness. At least, not from behind her. She had grown adept at finding other undead, including Forsaken. If they were followed, she’d know it. No, instead her nervousness stemmed from meeting her old mentor for the first time in years. Decades! As she crested the hill alongside Mierne, he came into view - he looked as distinguished and inspiring as ever. He wore his age well, signs of it showing in his face. But they somehow made him look stronger, rather than feeble. Experienced, not expiring. She almost staggered back, gasping lightly, as a rush of memories of him came flooding back into her mind. And emotions along with them.

Khanaros relaxed, visibly, as Mierne approached. He smiled to her… then looked suspiciously at Avehi. He could feel it immediately as she drew closer - that aura of undeath she carried. It caught him off guard, especially here. The stench of undeath was pallettable in these woods. He never expected it would emanate from an ally. Another Draenei, especially. He knew some of his kin were Scourged. He’d even met one or two, in passing. Khanaros knew that couldn’t be easy. Like the Krokul, losing the connection to the Light surely hit a Draenei hard. His suspicious look turned to a sympathetic look, as he eyed Avehi over a second time.

“No, no… all is well.” he then nodded to Mierne, as his holy energies faded from his hands and hammer. “Who is your friend?”

That question hurt quite a bit, for Avehi; while they weren’t ever close, she and Khanaros had met a couple times. She had hoped she stuck out at least a little from other trainees under his command back in the day. But he looked at her as if he never met her in his life! Had it been so long? Was she so forgettable? Or had undeath changed her that much? No possible answer took the sting out of his innocent query. She slumped, tail drooping down behind her as she looked away.

Mierne relaxed completely and smiled at Khanaros. At his presence alone, her tail began to sway happily behind her. There was something about seeing him all dressed up in his armor and seeing his powerful displays of the Light! She strolled up to him, but refrained from any public displays of affection while he was on duty… unless he initiated of course… Not that it was needed. The spark between them was obvious. Uncertain as she was about the engagement, there was no debate on how much she enjoyed her old friend’s presence.

“Ah! This is my dear friend Avehi! I have told you about her, I’m certain! She and I grew close in the marshes after the fall of Shattrath.”

She turned her head to smile at Avehi, blinking as she noticed the sudden change in her friend’s demeanour. The slumped shoulders… the dropping tail… Had Khanaros’ use of the Light upset her. She knew the undead tended to be sensitive to it...

“—Ah, are you alright, Avehi?” She asked, concern in her voice, “Are you… are you that sensitive to the Light’s presence?”

“--Aah, no. No, I’m alright.” Avehi snapped to, nodding to Mierne.

She gave a meek smile, before looking back at Khanaros. The Vindicators exchanged a moment of looks, before Khanaros broke the silence between them. He sheathed his hammer, and offered Avehi a crisp salute.

“Oh, of course! It is well, yes!” he bowed his head politely. “Mierne has mentioned you on several occasions. Always in a positive light, of course. It is a pleasure to finally meet you.”

He was proud of himself, suppressing his reflex to use his typical greeting. He had worked with Death Knights before, in Northrend and in several campaigns since. The Light didn’t always agree with them - and wishing Light’s blessings on them had often earned him scowls and scolding retorts. He imagined, to them, such was a curse. A slap in the face. He’d caught himself from uttering such a phrase now, even though Avehi was a fellow Draenei.

Avehi did frown, however, the meek smile vanishing quickly again as Khanaros addressed her. Despite, she returned the salute with one of her own. Theirs was always a professional relationship, in the past. She could certainly be professional now.

“We’ve met several times, Vindicator.” she put plainly, tone even… if not a little monotone. “I was actually trained as a Vindicator under your command, on Draenor. But… do not fret. That was some time ago, certainly. And I was much more lively back then, I imagine.”

It was Khanaros’ turn to slump slightly at the revelation. He let out a silent ‘oh’, as he looked Avehi over once more - closer this time. He had met so many Draenei in his life, trained hundreds - if not thousands - of recruits. It was ridiculous to think he would remember them all! But that made it no less awkward, in the moment. He cleared his throat.

“I… see. Apologies, I…”

Words failed him. But they didn’t fail Avehi.

“Pay it no mind, Vindicator Khanaros.” she shook her head, and offered him a weak smile. “It is an honor to be re-introduced to you, nonetheless.”

Her tail twitched behind her, erratically. But otherwise, she was extremely calm and collected. Shoulders back again, standing proudly following her salute. Making a fuss or a scene would do no one any good. Especially Mierne; Avehi didn’t want to shame or embarrass his dear friend’s fiance, after all. But despite her professional demeanor… the awkward tension was thick as could be!

Mierne has absolutely no idea where the sudden tension had come from, but she could feel it nonetheless. She glanced from Avehi to Khanaros and back. Avehi’s friendly demeanour had completely vanished, and she couldn’t help but wonder why. With how uncomfortable Khanaros was getting, she was starting to wonder if perhaps something had happened between them years ago. If so, Avehi would have said something beforehand, right?

She tried to think of something to ease the tension, but nothing came to mind. Sighing, she walked over to take Khanaros’ hand in hers, giving it an encouraging squeeze.

“All is well, yes? What better way to get reacquainted than killing Horde soldiers together!”

She cringed internally. Solving people problems wasn’t what she was good at. Awkward conversations like this were why she lived -away- from people.

“How about we sit and catch up? I’ve planted a number of traps in the area. They will alert us if enemy forces draw near.”

Her tail flicked awkwardly. Why did things feel weird?

The squeeze of his hand shook Khanaros loose of his awkward stall. He looked to Mierne, and smiled.

“A fine idea. Come, I have a tent, we can seek shelter within from the dreariness.” he offered.

‘Most of it…’ he thought to himself, as he looked Avehi over once more. 

He could tell he offended her, not recalling her from before. It couldn't be helped, but clearly it struck a nerve. As he led the two of them to the tent, he rattled his brain trying to recall something - anything - about Vindicator Avehi...

The Death Knight followed behind Mierne and her fiance, quiet and sullen. She was trying not to let this sudden rush of emotions spoil the meeting. It was a struggle, though - she didn't realize how much that silly crush meant to her, or how unresolved those feelings were left. Seeing him again brought them all back… seeing him holding hands with Mierne as they walked along ahead of her made it worse. She expected someone would earn his affections, certainly. But to have it he someone so close to her… it made it feel that much more personal - irrational as she knew that was. How long had her best friend been living out one of her oldest fantasies? Embracing that strong, stern, but noble Vindicator? Indulging in his body…?

--No, no… she shook the thought from her mind as best she could. Jealousy would poison her friendship. She wouldn't let that happen! She couldn't! Lightly, Avehi cleared her throat, as Khanaros led them both into the tent.

“I had heard you retired, Vindicator. Some time ago.” she offered, tone varying and friendly, as it was before. “Rumors, I presume?”

Khanaros parted the tent flaps, allowing Mierne and Avehi both in ahead of him. It was nothing fancy; a table, some benches, crates of supplies and a weapon rack. Still, it was nice than just standing outside!

“I had very much intended to, after Argus.” he replied. “But a war this close to home demanded my attention. I could never ignore the needs of our people.”

He smiled to Avehi, politely, seeming to relax some. At least they were talking!

Mierne set her hammer down next to the weapon rack as they entered the tent. She was surprised at all the room inside, used to her little hovels back on the isles.

She was also used to wearing a lot less than she was. Due to the area being a battlefield, she was wearing mail armor that was much more appropriate, covering her body entirely. She removed her gloves and set her helm aside, brushing a hand through her hair. Despite the mess her helm had made of it, it still looked much better than when she lived alone in the wild. She took a bit more care of her appearance around Khanaros, especially when being seen in public with him. While she didn’t care about how people viewed her, she knew Khanaros had a reputation to uphold.

“This war has indeed come too close for comfort”, she agreed, “We are fortunate the Horde cannot keep a foothold here, otherwise nothing would stop them from attacking the Exodar.”

She took a seat on one of the benches, turning her attention to Avehi, “How are things in Kul Tiras?”

“When I was there, they were… stable.” Avehi replied, taking her place in the darkest corner of the tent - her lichfire eyes glowing brighter in contrast. “The Horde has a secure holding in the north of the island, but the bulk of their forces seem to be in Zandalar.”

Khanaros set his hammer neatly on the rack beside Mierne’s, before turning to the table. He poured a cup of water from a pitcher, and offered it to Mierne. He then did the same for Avehi… but Avehi shook her head in declination. The elder Vindicator simply then took the cup for himself.

“What matters to me, now, is Darkshore.” he said, plainly. “Kul Tiras is a nation that has long left the Alliance to fend for itself. I would not see it fall, if it can be helped, but perhaps coming under Horde fire will help them see the need to unite with the Alliance in this campaign. But as I said, Darkshore is--”

“You’re of a mind to just let the Horde tear into Kul Tiras? An allied human kingdom?” Avehi interjected, eyes narrowed slightly at Khanaros. “Our presence there, defending them, is as vital as it is here reclaiming Darkshore for the Kaldorei.”

The tension returned - Khanaros felt it as he looked Avehi over. This time, it wasn’t so much awkward as it was… hostile. He calmly shook his head, as he set the cup down.

“I did not mean to imply such. Of course, if we can help the Kul Tirans, that is best.” he elaborated. “But for the safety of the Exodar, and the protection of our people, defending Darkshore is paramount. That is all I meant, Vindicator Avehi.”

“No one argues that. We’re all here, aren’t we?” Avehi retorted - the air in the tent growing a bit colder. “But if we only fight battles to defend our people, while other people suffer the Horde’s brutality elsewhere, how are we better allies to the Alliance than the Kul Tirans? No front in this war is more or less important than another.”

In unintended unison, both Khanaros and Avehi looked to Mierne, as if awaiting her to weigh in on the issue…

Mierne frowned heavily at the two as they fought. She had thought the two would get along well, given that they’d met previously, but Avehi was in an abnormally abrasive mood it seemed.

‘What’s gotten into her?’ the shaman wondered, brow twitching.

“I think this type of conversation is exactly why I tend to stay on my island!” She growled, crossing her arms over her chest, “For goodness sake, I thought we came in here to speak of more pleasant things.”

Her tail flicked sporadically next to her as she took a sip from the water Khanaros had given her. She used the pause to attempt to calm herself.

“As for my opinion on political matters I know nothing about. I stand firm in my belief that our people come first. Certainly above short lived beings like the humans. When we were in need, the Kal’dorei helped us. Now, we repay that favour. My motivations are as simple as that.”

She shrugged, not certain what else they wanted from her.

“--Of course, yes.” Khanaros cleared his throat. “Apologies. The war in general is a controversial subject. It runs emotions high, and sparks arguments by its very nature.”

He dipped his head apologetically towards Mierne, then to Avehi. He had his opinions of the war, and it was clear she did as well. Mierne was right, though - a more pleasant topic was surely in order for this crowd!

As if she weren’t already stoic enough, Avehi kept still and silent, eyeing the two of them from her dark corner of the tent. The air between them still felt a little chilly, both literally and figuratively, but much less so than at the building of the spontaneous argument. Her expression was dull, unreadable, as if carved from stone. But her continued irritation was conveyed well enough as her tail swayed, fast but even, behind her. Her hands hung at her sides, balled into plates fists.

“... Mm.” she nodded once, after a long and silent pause. “I'm sorry, I must still be worked up from fighting. Please, excuse me a moment.”

With even, intent strides, Avehi exited the tent without another word. Khanaros opened his mouth to try to say something to stop her, but instead looked to Mierne to do so instead. It didn't seem to matter, though - she left before either had much of a chance to protest it. Khanaros sighed, before swallowing down the rest of his water.

“... I am sorry, Mierne.” he exhaled, defeatedly. “I must have offended your friend deeply when I did not recognize her. Did she tell you we had met previously?”

Mierne was silent as she watched Avehi leave the tent. She did nothing to stop her. The Death Knight was clearly frustrated about something, and she suspected it had to do with something bigger than a past teacher not remembering her. She shook her head at Khanaros’ question.

“She did not. I was aware that she knew who you are, but that is the extent of it. I have not spoken to her in some time, though. I suspect it is something else that bothers her, and it is marking her bristle at smaller things.” She sighed, patting the empty place on the bench for Khanaros to come sit next to her.

“Avehi is still quite young, and I cannot imagine the trauma undeath would brings.”

Khanaros nodded thoughtfully as he took a seat beside Mierne. He exhaled a heavy sigh. It troubled him that not only had he seemed to upset a fellow Vindicator - fallen or not - but he'd also upset Mierne's friend. A part of him worried that failing to meet Avehi's approval could affect his plans to marry Mierne. He wasn't sure they were that close, but he knew Mierne well. Well enough to know that she didn't keep many close friends. That Avehi was one at all spoke to how much she must've meant to Mierne.

“Perhaps… it is my aura?” he theorized. “The Light can adversely affect one of her condition. Perhaps I am agitating her in that unintentional way.”

He slipped his arm around Mierne, casually, holding her as they sat. His tail swayed calmly, but his eyes continually glanced towards the tent opening, as if awaiting Avehi's return.

“I could… try to diminish it, I suppose…”

“Hmm… perhaps. She was acting as normal until we arrived. The Light might bother her more than she’s willing to let on.”

Mierne gave another shrug as she leaned in comfortably against Khanaros. Her tail reached over and intertwined with his in a comforting manner. She could tell he was distraught over the matter. It seemed Avehi’s opinion of him was an important matter to him. She couldn’t help but wonder why. Certainly, he must have encountered more than a single person that disliked him at some point in his long life. Avehi couldn’t be the first.

“Do not dwell on it,” she reassured him, placing a quick kiss on his cheek, “You did nothing wrong.”

Khanaros leaned into the kiss, unable to help but smile at Mierne's affections. His tail coiled about hers.

“... I know this is rather opposite of trying to diminish that aura, but…” he shrugged, giving Mierne a sheepish look. “...I was going to ask what you thought of the idea of me attempting the Lightforge Trials.”

~*~

Avehi paced outside around the camp. This was going poorly, she knew. She worried about what Mierne must've thought of all this. Her tail swayed in agitation, concerns that she'd surely upset her oldest and dearest friend! Her lichfire eyes flared with frustration, as she stood out over a small outcropping, and gazed thoughtfully at the darkened moon. She had to get this under control - this wasn't like her at all! Oh, how she wanted to walk back in that tent, and punch Khanaros in the face! And yet she could just as easily go inside and kiss him passionately. He'd be certain to remember her then, either way!

She exhaled slowly - not by any necessity, of course. Undeath did away with her need to breathe. Instead, it had become a practiced, reflexive motion to help her calm herself. She shook her head, putting aside her thoughts and feelings for Khanaros. For now. She had to salvage this, and set things right. For Mierne. She could do that.

But how? What explanation was suitable for this behavior? She could blame the Hunger… no, she prided herself in keeping that well under control. To lean on it as an excuse would undermine that. War stress? They all had that… she watched the moon, shoulders slumping as the realization washed over her - the best course of action was to come clean. To tell the truth, and reveal her crush on Khanaros. Her tail flickered, and began swaying in another way. A different pace and variance, not thoughtful anymore. Now... mustering confidence. She had made up her mind. She just needed the courage to carry out her will.

~*~

“What do you think?” Khanaros asked, turning to Mierne.

She looked genuinely surprised by his interest in becoming Lightforged. The more she thought of it, however, the more it made sense for it to be a path Khanaros would want to take. He’d been a Vindicator for longer than they’d known each other. The Light always an important facet in his life. Lightforging was naturally the next step for him in that regard. He was strong, old and wise. Surely he would have no problems passing his trials.

Perhaps it appeared as a surprise as he had so recently retired after Argus. This next step was quite the opposite of the quiet retirement he’d planned before the war broke out. But, if anything, this war proved that the fighting would not end. Not anytime soon.

Her head tilted as she thought it through. She was worried at what such an overabundance of exposure could bring. But again, she trusted Khanaros of all people would handle it appropriately.

“I think...” She said after a moment’s thought, “I think it would suit you well. If this is the path that feels natural to you, then who am I to stop you?”

Mierne smiled. Surely he wasn’t asking for her permission. Simply looking for counsel from his oldest friend… fiancé… She still wasn’t used to the thought.

“If this is what you wish to do, then you have my full support, of course.”

“Mm. I believe it is.” Khanaros smiled, tensing his arm to affectionately squeeze Mierne beside him. “It did not interest me before, when I thought I would be hanging up my hammer for good. But seeing as this war is far from over, I think it wise to give myself further to the Light, to better exact its divine judgement.”

He nodded once, firmly. Determined, now. From what he had heard, the trial was rigorous, testing body, mind, and soul, all. But now, with Mierne’s support in such a decision, he was confident all would be well.

“--It would change my appearance, I believe.” he added, as an afterthought. “Paler skin and hair, from what I have seen. Would you love me still, if I came out looking different?”

He smirked, half-teasingly. He knew the answer, of course. Their connection wasn’t purely based on appearances. But he also knew physical attraction was important in its own way. With any luck, he’d come out looking better from the Lightforging… not worse.

Before Mierne could reply, the tent flaps opened, as Avehi stepped inside once more. She looked solemnly to the pair as they sat on the bench, before exhaling a thoughtful sigh. Her tail swayed behind her, restlessly, as she stepped further inside and stood before her dearest friend, and former mentor.

“I… owe you both an explanation.” she said, meekly, shoulders slumping slightly. “I know I’ve been… stand-off-ish, yes? Moreso than is normal, even for me.”

“--It is alright, Vindicator Avehi.” Khanaros piped up, interrupting. “We… discussed it a bit, and pieced together why you are so uncomfortable around me.”

Avehi’s lichfire eyes widened! She gasped lightly, eyeing Khanaros, then Mierne.

“You… you do?” she asked, anxiously.

“It was obvious, yes, after we ruminated on it. As I said, it is alright. You need not be embarrassed or ashamed by it. I only regret I did not notice it sooner, or we could have addressed it immediately.”

The Death Knight blinked slowly. She didn’t expect such an amicable reaction! In a way, it only made her more attracted to Khanaros, with how mildly and level-headedly he addressed the awkward feelings she had for him. So mature! Perhaps he was right, and she should have come clean about this before the meeting! But… he didn’t want Mierne to think Avehi would try to act on such feelings. She glanced again to her dear friend, as if to gauge her reaction to the revelation.

“I… promise, I never intended to take any manner of action about this. It’s just somewhat… frustrating, yes? Given how things are now.” she sighed, apologetically.

“It… it is fine,” Mierne waved a hand dismissively, “No need to dwell on such things. It is a natural thing, after all.”

Mierne was fairly certain Avehi and Khanaros were not speaking of the same issues. She knew Avehi got along fine with Vindicators in the past. One she even considered a very close friend, so it made no sense for her behaviour to dramatically change this much upon Khanaros’ aura. The worry had crossed her mind earlier, but in hindsight it didn’t add up. Avehi had even told her such was not the case. Now, it seemed like she was just hiding behind that excuse...

She chose not to address it, however. For the moment, everyone was getting along well, and that was fine with her. She could discover what was really bothering her dear friend at a later time. There was no need to drag everything out in front of Khanaros.

She got up and made her way over to the knight, pulling her into a tight hug. Whatever the issue was, she wanted Avehi to know that she was always there for her.

Avehi couldn't help but smile as Mierne embraced her. She knew her dear friend would understand, passing no judgement for such things. She returned the embrace, being gently mindful of her armor as she affectionately squeezed Mierne.

“I… am glad. I worried such would make things difficult between us, seeing as you two are to be wed.” she sighed, relieved. “I'm sure it'll be easier to bear, as time goes on. I can't avoid you both forever, just because of a silly feeling.”

“Wise beyond your years, Vindicator Avehi.” Khanaros piped up as he stood.

Avehi broke the hug and looked to Khanaros, offering him a respectful bow. She found herself smiling lightly at hin, as well.

“Thank you, Vindicator Khanaros. And thank you for being so understanding about this. I know it is… awkward.” she shrugged, cheeks darkening. “At least, it's awkward for me. I imagine you must get this a lot.”

“Hmm, I suppose so. Death Knights do tend to shy from me. I cannot imagine you are alone in feeling the effects of the aura of the Light's blessing I exude.” he nodded once. “But rest assured, i take no offense. And i commend you for wishing to expose yourself to it, despite your condition. I pray you do manage to build up a tolerance to such discomforts, if only to be closer to the Light. A Draenei's connection to the Light is a sacred thing, enabling our kin to…”

Avehi kept up her facade, while her tail swaying bore the brunt of her indications of disappointment and irritation. As Khanaros went on with his impromptu sermon on the Light, Avehi nodded along. But she realized it now; he had no idea she had a crush on him. He'd misread the situation, almost as badly as she misread his misreading. Silently, she cursed to herself, eyes flickering over to Mierne. She must've misunderstood, too. Perhaps she would tell her in time. But for now, it was probably for the best she went along with Khanaros’ false assumption. It cleared her of the awkwardness, at least.

“...so that we may bask in its eternal warmth. May it be so.” Khanaros nodded firmly at the conclusion of his speech.

“Yes… may it be so.” Avehi repeated, before bowing her head politely to the two elder Draenei. “I will… see about building my tolerance in tine. But for now, your aura is rather… radiant. I think I shall go and fight on my own, for now.”

“As you wish, Vindicator Avehi. Light guide your path, and shield you from harm.” the Vindicator nodded, imparting his verbal blessing. “Until we meet again.”

Avehi looked to Mierne, smiling, before turning to depart once more. The miscommunication concealed her lust for her dear friend's fiance… for the moment. But she still felt she should tell her.

Just… not now.

~*~

[avehi-the-adamant]

Second Chances

By now, the Exodar had long served as a home for the Draenei. Having used it to flee their shattered and doomed territories on Draenor, the Exodar was a familiar comfort to many. But to Avehi, it was a stifling cradle which she had outgrown. Once she called it home, yes. But even before her ill-timed fate, the Exodar was never a place she wished to spend her days. It was a trap; the Prophet chose to remain to be among his people, and the skittish people remained to cling unto the Prophet. Why here? It was just a ship, after all; a vessel meant to translocate her people to a safer world. And it had… years ago. Her people weren’t meant to live in the wreckage of the vessel that brought them here! Now, the Exodar only served as a hive for those too scared or afraid to venture out further than the Isles. It had become a breeding ground for xenophobia and closed-mindedness. And the Death Knight found it abhorrent.

Returning was never pleasant; for that reason, and others. The irritating tinge of Light energies soaked into every stone and crystal felt irradiating to her now. It had been years now, since O’ros was destroyed here by the Legion. But his presence remained, permeated into the vessel itself. It was stifling. Avehi’s lips curled to an uncomfortable snarl as she paced through the metallic corridors. She’d come here with a purpose, but every step she took made her wonder whether or not it was worth the trouble. She had almost turned back twice, now. But both times, Raetos’ face flashed across her mind’s eye. His words echoing in her thoughts.

“He is actually sorry and apologetic for what he did…”

“He knows he did wrong. He died for it. The Grand Vindicator judged that he deserved a chance to repent and make amends… “

“Repentance means he learned and aims to do better…”

‘Damn it, Raetos…’ she thought to herself, in a huff. How could someone so dumb also be so wise? It didn’t help at all that he, himself, was living proof that a zealot could reform and better themselves. He was almost worse than Argonas was, when she first met him. Argonas at least treated her with a modicum of reverence for having perished in battle. Raetos, meanwhile, had insisted she hadn’t joined with the Light because her faith wasn’t strong enough. But he’d come so far since then; now, he was dating a Void Elf and lecturing her on not judging others by their practices and beliefs. She hated that he was right about Argonas-- he at least deserved a chance at repentance. And that’s why she was here.

Avehi stepped out into the Crystal Halls; of all the sections of the Exodar, this was her favorite. Serene and calming, without the blinding Light glaring down from every corner. No, it was a relaxing place, with reflecting pools and - as the name implied - softly-glowing purple and blue crystals. It reminded her of Shadowmoon Valley, and the time she spent there with her mother. Perhaps that was why it seemed to calm her irritations. As expected, she saw a familiar broad-shouldered figure kneeling beside one of the pools. She knew few Draenei as large in stature as Argonas; one of only a few mortals whose natural strength rivaled the unholy strength granted to her by virtue of undeath. She remembered learning that in their grapple when all of his interference first began…

--No, she pushed the thought from her mind! That train of thought was a slippery slope to changing the tone of this visit from forgiving to vindictive. That wasn’t why she was here.

“Argonas.” she called out, stopping a comfortable distance from him.

He turned, tail twitching as his name was called. Argonas stood as he looked at Avehi. He’d let himself go, it seemed-- generally he was very precise about his professional and clean appearance, trimming his hair and keeping clean-shaven. But now, he bore a thick beard, and the hair behind his crest was easily twice as long as usual, tied back into a loose ponytail. He wasn’t in his armor today; another deviation from his norm. Instead, he wore a simple sleeveless shirt and cotton-woven pants. Avehi peered at the runic scars etched into his arms. She’d heard of what happened to him in Tanaan… but had never seen the scars until now. Argonas approached, expression both hopeful and contrite. He bowed his head, stopping an arm’s length from Avehi.

“Sister… you bring news? Is it time?” he asked, a glint of determination in his tone.

Honestly, it had been some time since Argonas referred to Avehi as ‘Sister’. The honorific dealt between Draenei helped instill a sense of community and equality among one another. It wasn’t fitting to call your betters-- Argonas would never call the High Vindicator ‘Brother’, for example. But the act of not calling Avehi ‘Sister’ for so long was, admittedly, scornful. Petty, even. Just another of his wrongdoings for which he had to atone. He was still wary of Avehi, but no longer for the same reasons as before. He had seen what awaited the departed in the Maw. He bore witness to the horrors those killed and cast into it had to endure. Avehi was fighting to right those wrongs. He knew that now. What had him wary was Avehi’s demeanor in Arathi, as he was brought back. He was wary of the pain he’d caused her, knew full well that were their positions reversed… he’d be vengeful. Why wouldn’t she be?

Much to Argonas’ surprise, Avehi didn’t appear hostile. Her expression still bore the beginnings of a scowl, but somehow dulled. Softened. She didn’t seem as mad… more disappointed. Somehow it was worse.

“Not yet. Not for you.” Avehi replied, plainly. “I am not here with any news. Rather… to speak.”

“Speak?” Argonas blinked, confused.

“To… check on you.”

Avehi glanced away, tail flickering. This was harder than she had anticipated. Awkward and tense. She and Argonas had never been close, despite sharing similar experiences. Both were trained by High Vindicator Khanaros, but at separate times. They lived in separate regions on Draenor, and were assigned to different posts. Their lives had taken them down different paths, even along the same major events. When the Exodar crashed on Azeroth, Argonas mourned his fallen love while Avehi ventured out to deliver vengeance upon the elves that sabotaged their ship. And yet, for all their differences, they had similarities in their paths, too. Again, trained by Khanaros, who forged them into some of the best defenders of their people. Their parents were artisans, crafting weapons, armor, and tools from metal and crystal. And now, just as dying had opened Avehi’s eyes… it had opened Argonas’ eyes, too. Considering that helped to dissipate some of the tension.

“When I died and came back… it was shocking to me, as well.” she explained, her gaze meeting his again. “One of the short-comings of such a singular path, like how you and I were brought up, is that we never learned to deal with the reality that the sole path we’re taught doesn’t account for everything. For me, being raised as undead rather than joining with the Light, like I was promised, was more painful to me than when I actually died.”

Argonas was speechless; for the best. Listening seemed much more appropriate as Avehi opened up to him. He didn’t expect her to sympathize with him… or honestly, to even try. In all the time he’d known her, she’d never reached out to find any measure of common ground between them. Then again… neither did he. The two were so caught up in their differences, they never considered the experiences they shared. And now, of all things, dying was one of them.

“I suppose what I’m saying is… I know what you’re experiencing right now. Before I died, I was like you.” she went on. “I… looked down on anyone who did not incorporate the Light into their lives. But the Light alone can’t answer all the problems we face. History has proven that, too; the Krokul and shamanism helped us to heal the land and gain allies in the elements. The Demon Hunters, too, helped us return to Argus and join with our Lightforged kin to defeat the Legion. And now… those like me who are undead will lead us into the Shadowlands to fight for the souls of our people!”

She recoiled some at her own words-- not out of any disbelief or discomfort with them. But she hadn’t intended to lay on the point so heavily. As she well knew, Argonas was experiencing a crisis of identity. All he knew was altered. And it wasn’t an easy realization to accept. But she had hoped that, in highlighting truths she had learned, that he’d manage to cope with it better.

“You see that now, yes?” she asked, in a calmer tone. “The Light is one of many paths. And all paths have their uses.”

“I… know this.” Argonas nodded, brow furrowed slightly. “I have always known this. But… until now, I have always managed to accomplish what was needed through the Light. Even surviving on Argus was the Light’s doing. It delivered me from death. What bothers me is… I have never known why. I still do not. Why would the Light spare me, if there is nothing I can do for my people?”

“Nothing? Argonas…” Avehi frowned, shaking her head. “You are a Vindicator. A protector of our people. There is much you can do for our people. Those living, and those departed.”

She reached forward, placing her cold, plated hand on Argonas’ shoulder. Her lichfire eyes pierced his now, commanding his full attention-- and he gave it entirely to her, both wary and intrigued.

“You’ve learned much you would not have, had you died on Argus, yes? What good would you be to our people dead, trapped in the Maw?” she asked. “You want to know why the Light delivered you? To help deliver more of our people from that terrible fate. People like Sinafay.”

“--Y-Yes! Yes, I must save her!”

“We must save her. We must save all of our kin, Argonas. You would not know that, nor be equipped to, if you had died on Argus.”

She jostled him, emphasizing her point before pulling her hand back. With a nod, she stepped back from Argonas. His expression had changed to one of pure conviction. He peered back at Avehi, and returned the nod.

“You… are right. This affects not just Sinafay, but all our people. And I… I cannot make a difference myself. The Light can help, but I must get there, first. And that is what you can do, yes? That is what you and the Ebon Blade are working towards?”

“Mm. The time will come soon.” Avehi replied. “And when it does… you will come with me. We will redeem our trapped kin together.”

Standing tall and proud once more, Argonas grunted his affirmation. It seemed to be precisely what he needed-- a call to arms. A purpose. And Avehi was somehow glad to see his spirit lifted and his motivation restored. And now… toward a goal they shared. He smiled at Avehi, and bowed his head.

“Thank you, Avehi. I… know I have not treated you well in the past.” he apologized, sincerely. “I appreciate you including me in this important work, nonetheless. I am in your debt.”

Avehi shook her head, and returned the smile. She could tell Argonas was earnest in his contrition. She knew well what he was enduring. The pain he faced, and the resolve he needed to find purpose after such a traumatic shattering of his reality. It was something she needed once, too. Raetos’ words echoed once more in her mind; and she echoed them here now, to Argonas.

“Everyone deserves a second chance.”

[miernethepersevering]

Mierne the Persevering

Race: Draenei 

Age: 8000+ years

Sexuality: Bisexual / Monogamous

Profession: Shaman

Addictions: None

Marital Status: Engaged to Khanaros the Inexorable

Hermit, naturalist and maternal, Mierne spends most of her time in the wilds of the Bloodmyst Isles, attempting to restore the land and provide balance after the Exodar crash. She occasionally makes her way into the city to check up on friends, but is easily overwhelmed by large crowds and noise.

Current Situation: Mierne has remained mostly secluded after her captivity at the hands of the Naga in Naz’jatar. She has increased the frequency and duration of her trips to the Exodar, however, to spend more time with her fiancé, Khanaros.

FC: Danai Gurira

[argonas]

The Tipping Point

[[ Co-written with @kidcatgemini​ / @raetos​ ]]

Argonas couldn't sleep. It had been a few days since he had. Anger, guilt, and frustration all tormented him as of late. He felt stuck; unable to make headway on anything, be it finding closure following the loss of his wife, or serving justice to that arrogant defiler, Avehi. He had too few people he could talk to about it. Few people he trusted. 

Sylaess was still nowhere to be found. He worried she had died. Again. Or… worse. Had the Old Gods consumed her soul? Had her final succumbing proved to be the end of his old friend? He couldn't say. He couldn't seek her counsel or even rely upon it if she were there to offer it. Her mind was lost… if not her, entirely.

Sinafay… wasn't an option. Not anymore. He felt a sickening tickle in his throat whenever he thought of that pale and shallow reflection of his beloved wife. And her orc partner. Disgusting! As much as he wished to have someone to talk to about all this… he had written her off. 

Khanaros, his mentor, still couldn't see reason. Mierne had her hooks deep, it seemed, and the High Vindicator was beyond help. Argonas tried to speak with him again a day earlier… but nothing changed. He told Argonas that Avehi's outlandish claims - that death was "broken" - were verified by the Auchenai. For all the reverence he felt for the Order… he didn't trust them one bit. Not after what had become of Exarch Maladaar. And Khanaros? He had lost his mind just as much, so ready to believe such foolishness.

And Mierne herself? She sought to manipulate Argonas, too! How long would it have been before she enthralled him, as she had Khanaros? He thought he could trust her. Confide in her. Their time together was a boon, following his loss on Argus. But no… she had shown her hand, even if no one else saw it. He did; he knew the games she sought to play to protect her precious friend.

That only left Raetos; a somewhat naive Lightforged, but pure and uncorrupted. Argonas felt he could rely on him, and seek his counsel on some of what it was he struggled with. But he was worried; it had been a while since the Scout reported in. Troubling thoughts that Avehi may have found and killed him started to set in. Had he sent the Scout to his death? He prayed such wasn't the case… but considered venturing out to find him and make sure.

For now, however, Argonas tried to relax. He soaked in the soothing springs in the Crystal Halls, hoping to be rid of the soreness in his muscles and the fatigue in his mind.

Raetos had arrived at the Exodar rather late. Chasing Avehi across the continents was a bigger undertaking than he’d expected. Even more so that everytime he managed to catch up with her, she’d ride him until he had nothing left to give, leaving him exhausted. He yawned as he made his way through the crystal halls, not really paying much attention to where he was going.

"--Raetos?"

It was a surprise to Argonas, seeing him here. More so, having just passed through idle thoughts about the Lightforged. Coincidence, surely. But a fortunate one at that. He sat up and waved Raetos over to the edge of the relaxing pool.

"Come, friend! Let us speak!" the Vindicator beckoned him, wearing the gentle outline of a smile on his lips… for the first time in ages.

Raetos froze. He had assumed arriving at the Exodar so late would mean avoiding Argonas altogether. But apparently, the Vindicator didn’t sleep!

“A-Argonas!” He exclaimed, finally turning to face the larger Draenei, “Hey! Yeah, so… did not expect to bump into you at this time!”

He walked over to the pool, but didn’t really make any moves to undress and get in himself.

“I’m actually super tired right now. Was a long trip home from Kalimdor. That Death Knight you have me tracking sure loves to travel!”

“--Ah, fortunate of you to find your way here, then.” Argonas stood, continuing to beckon Raetos further into the pool. “These pools will alleviate your fatigue. Come, join me. Tell me what that vile creature has been doing in Kalimdor!”

The scout tried desperately to think of an excuse to NOT stay and talk, but his tired brain came up empty. Besides, Argonas seemed rather insistent.

“I… guess I can stay and chat a bit,” he finally gave in, before going about undressing, “She actually hasn’t been doing much other than her usual stuff. Unfortunately no illegal activity to report other than the obvious raising fallen soldiers of various races. She got in a scuffle in the Barrens with some Orcs. She and a Tauren dude fought them off. Weird that he helped her. I’m thinking he’s some kind of outcast."

He finished undressing and slipped into the pool with a sigh. Argonas was right! The soothing waters felt great!

“There was a strange encounter in Arathi. She met up with some Lightforged Draenei chick on a farm. Looked like she was living there with an Orc. Oh man! I think they were a couple because they had the ugliest baby I’ve ever seen! Like... holy shit!”

The Vindicator relaxed back down into the pools. The more he listened, the more he frowned; his brief smile had vanished entirely. It didn't bode well-- Avehi was gathering allies for her despicable cause. He knew of no Tauren contact she might have, but presumed him to be another Ebon Knight. At least they battled a few orcs. Argonas couldn't be too mad about that. But the second part… he bristled immediately at the mention.

"Sinafay… and her Orc mate, Grakkar." he grunted, more spitting the words out in disgust than speaking them. "So they have hidden out in Arathi. Bold of them."

It was that moment that an idea struck the Vindicator. A plan to work around Khanaros' directive and still stop - or at least slow - Avehi's progress towards her abhorrent objectives. She couldn't do this alone, as the business with Mierne and her chokehold on the High Vindicator had proven. If he wasn't able to confront her directly..  he could at least eliminate those who harbored and aided her. And Sinafay and Grakkar were first on that list.

"Where in Arathi, Raetos?"

“They live on a farm way out in the north, near the mountains. It’s way out in the middle of nowhere. Wouldn’t have ever suspected it was there if I hadn’t followed Avehi there.”

He rambled on a moment, before turning his head to look at Argonas.

“Why? What did they do? Are they criminals? If so, I know this super cool Dark Iron Lady that’s all about Bounty Hunting!”

"--Bounty hunter? No, we have no need of their sort. We will handle this ourselves, yes?"

Argonas grunted, almost offended by the notion! He was far superior than any sellsword. And with the Light flowing through him, he had what no bounty hunter or mercenary ever could; divine purpose. He shook his head.

"Sinafay is a traitor to the Draenei. One who chose loyalty to the Orcs over loyalty to her own kin. They are not wanted; rather unwanted. Exiles." he explained, idly running his hands through the waters. "But if Avehi is meeting with them, they must know of her foul machinations. It can be presumed they are helping her, just as Mierne helped her by manipulating the High Vindicator. If we cannot strike out at Avehi directly… we can at least cripple her support network."

He nodded slowly, considering how best to go about it. Fighting and killing his former apprentice resonated as a sound enough idea to him, considering her treachery. But more than that, he wondered if it would perhaps bring him peace. It felt cruel, that his beloved wife was lost, and yet the tainted reflection of her endured. His mind turned to Kairei, his first real love; slaying the Sargerei variant of her after she passed helped him find closure back then. It stood to reason it would now, too. Such was a Vindicator's charge; to dispense justice.

"... I will handle them." he nodded. "You must continue your task, and follow Avehi. When next she meets another supporter of hers - that Tauren, or anyone else - dispatch them once they part from her. Burn the bridges in her wake, yes?"

Raetos couldn’t help but frown, a hand moving out of the water to rub at the scar Avehi had left on him in their first encounter together. 

“I mean… the war is over. We can’t exactly go around executing people at random like that. Not without proof of wrongdoings to back it up. What if they’re just friends of hers? Innocent in this whole raising the dead thing? And I thought we were going to wait until the High Vindicator looked into things first.” He shook his head, “No offence, Argonas. But you’re starting to talk about some extreme stuff here.”

“--You speak of extremities? Avehi is out there raising the dead! What is more extreme than that?!” Argonas snapped, scowling. “None who consider that villain a friend are innocent! If they aid her in any way, they are just as guilty of her defilements as she is! And it is our job to see justice met for such crimes!”

The Vindicator snarled at Raetos. He couldn’t believe he had to explain the Light’s justice to a Lightforged! This was not extreme, it was necessary! Why was Raetos speaking out against the plan in such a manner? Perhaps he was not as committed to seeing evil purged from Azeroth as Argonas thought...

“Remember your duty, Raetos.” he cautioned him, sternly. “We face a terrible foe. And while she may not be as destructive as the Legion… Avehi is every bit as dangerous. She has become a demon in her own right-- and the Light cannot abide such a reprehensible and shameful creature!”

“Whoa whoa whoa,” Raetos waved his hand, “Do you hear yourself, buddy? You’re talking Xe’ra-type shit, there! Trust me when I say I wasn’t super upset over her demise, alright? I’m Light-forged, yeah, but not Light-blinded.”

He reached over and placed a hand on Argonas’ shoulder.

“Listen to me,” he said, his golden gaze meeting the Vindicator’s, “There’s a huge difference between the Light’s justice and a personal vendetta. And honestly? Avehi’s a pretty cool person once you get to know her a little. Other than raising the dead, she hasn’t done anything illegal.”

The Vindicator's eyes narrowed dangerously. He didn't care for Raetos' tone, words, familiarity… he didn't care for Raetos altogether! He swatted the Lightforged's hand from his shoulder as he peered at him. 

"'Once you get to know her?'" Argonas repeated, as he rose up out of the soothing water once more. "Have you been watching her, or speaking to her?"

Brusquely, he gripped Raetos' head in one hand, turning it as his eyes honed in on that bite mark he had so readily dismissed before. He presumed some animal had done it-- a foolish assumption, now that he'd gotten a proper look. With a grunt, he stepped back from the Scout, scowling!

"Or more than even speaking, it appears!" he accused, pointing so at Raetos. "She has seduced you, you damned fool! You bear her carnal mark, defiled and beguiled by the witch, herself!"

“Psh! She didn’t seduce me…”

Restos moved out of the pool, not bothering to dry off before beginning to throw his armor back on. He could read Argonas easily enough at this point. 

“Okay, so the first time… maybe a bit of seduction was involved. But you know what? Doesn’t matter. She’s fucking hot and not at all gross like you’d said she’d be. And look at me! Still Lightforged! Still connected to the Light! At least she’s not out there killing innocent families over a HUGE assumption of a crime. What she’s doing is unconventional, and trust me, I was skeptical too! But she really believes she’s saving these people from a worse fate. I may not fully grasp what she’s talking about, but I do believe there’s something going on. At least look into the matter yourself if you’re too stubborn to hear it from anyone else!”

Raetos huffed as he finished attaching his armor. The way Argonas has been talking about killing Avehi’s allies, he didn’t exactly feel safe around the Vindicator himself. 

“I’m going to bed. Try not to do anything stupid.”

"There is nothing I could do more stupid than you trusting her, Raetos! Your naivety in this matter put you in jeopardy!" Argonas gave a final warning, fists clenched. "I am resolute in this cause. My calling! I will see justice dealt to Avehi; with or without you!

Argonas stepped out of the pool, but paced no closer to Raetos as he turned to leave. He knew well the cowardly traitor was retreating out of fear. Out of guilt. And rightly so; Avehi had implicated another into her ring of misdeeds, and Argonas couldn't abide it! He had lost enough friends as it was to the Death Knight's manipulations… this last one cut him deeper than any blade ever could. He was truly alone in this cause. Only the Light was with him, now. And he knew the Light's justice needed to be fulfilled!

Was this why he was brought back? Spared from death on Argus? Perhaps no one but he could resist Avehi's manipulative ways. Perhaps he, alone, was to save Azeroth from this next great threat!

"Reevaluate your allegiances, Raetos. I caution you…" he all but growled. "... I will not permit you to aid her. I will not permit anyone to aid her!"

“Yeah, you’ve made that pretty clear,” Raetos shot back, “Enjoy your crusade! The more people you can blame the better, right?”

He sneered, shaking his head. As disturbing it was listening to Argonas, it was more disturbing knowing he himself hadn’t been much different all that long ago… before Avehi had literally knocked some sense into him...

“I don’t know what your obsession with her is, but everything you’ve said about her is wrong. I hope the Light grants you clarity on that before it’s too late. Goodnight, Argonas.”

With that, he turned and walked off towards the apartments...

[[ Mention Tags: @sylaess​ @avehi-the-adamant​ @sinafay1​ @sinafay-the-defiant​ @grakkar-gorefang​ @miernethepersevering​ ]]