Personal Archives

[Skafloc]

I have written too few words in my memoirs. I cannot recall the last entry.

Still, this should be written as I may find the need to go back someday to read these thoughts and confirm whether they foreshadowed the truth.

Her words linger in my mind. But then almost everything Tamora says has that impact. I have come to value her counsel as I do few others. Her mind is as powerful as her body, her wisdom vast beyond her years. She is an unusual anomaly, a warrior prophet. The epitomy of orc femininity. She knows no fear, either from physical confrontation or emotional discussion. She is brutally honest. Her wit as sharp as Grom Hellscream's legendary axe which has allowed itself to adorn her back.

Thus far everything she has told me as proven to be exactly correct.

Now, even as she says the words to me, my mind drifts back some days to the scene before the gates of Stormwind. I see with my minds eye the final actions of that foray, with her words cutting through the fog of my memory.

She could not know, yet her words speak as if she too were standing there witnessing the retreat. Her insight seeing his character, seeing through the facade to predict his true action.

She was correct once again.

He left her. He abandoned her in the face of a sea of enemies. Despite his words of "protecting her", his oh so touching pledge of " if she perished I would have little else to live for".

Despite the lofty ideals, when faced with danger and threat he turned and ran, not bothering to check where she was. Not following his pledge. He ran and she fell.

I know, I was there. I stayed close.

He will bear watching.

[Skafloc]

I feel the tickling at my mind. He is calling me.

It has been long since we spoke, Rivendark and I. Yet I sense his presence in my mind as a constant companion. Listening, evaluating, taking notes.

Things are in motion that even he could not predict. It has him curious, I can sense it.

How will it all play out? The threads of possibility are legion.

Yes, a meeting is in order. Several meetings in fact, Rivendark being just one of the advisors I need to speak to. I feel I need to get Tamora's insight. Especially in light of last night's events.

Persefani of course will be next. I will write the letter immediately following this entry. There is much still we need to discuss. Much that has to be resolved. Besides, there is the matter of the item I now hold. I risked much in obtaining it, I pray the risk will be worth the dividends. Time will tell.

There is one more meeting, but that is not for this journal, for obvious reasons.

[Skafloc]

Why do I bother writing words in this dusty, neglected tome? It is not as if I can unload my thoughts and concerns. No, that is a luxury reserved for others. Not I.

The true tale of my life is written upon my soul. Those that have the ability and insight may catch glimmers of it in the flicker of the fel green of my eyes, in the detail of my wood carvings, or etched upon the lines of my face.

It sits there staring at me. My latest woodcarving. It was a flight of fancy, a whim that was born from my desire to do SOMETHING, ANYTHING. I have not taken up my woodcarving tools in many weeks. I cannot fathom what drove me to do so last night. But once started, I could not stop. I had no plan, no model in mind. It was a creation that flowed on its own accord through my arms into my fingers into the silvery Ironwood.

It is an abomination. Not those walking mountains of diseased flesh which have collectively been tagged that moniker by the denizens of Undercity. No this is an abomination in definition. Once finished my every instinct was to toss the thing into the fireplace that warms my study. I can not say what stays my hand, but I stare at it with a horrid fascination. The many hued lacquer I used to paint the scales scintillating in the light of my lanterns, reflecting back in motes of jade and obsidian and flame.

I realize now why I cannot bring myself to destroy the carving. It is a self portrait.

[Skafloc]

The talk with Leoren, such as it was, went well I suppose. Time contraints did not permit me to say all that I wanted. That will have to wait until later when we both have the freedom to sit and discuss.

Gods bless him and his Blood Knight sense of honor, he does not lie well. Not that he outright told a falsehood but he did try to skirt the perimeter of truth, leaving much unsaid and hanging in his discomfort.

He clads himself in armor truly, in spirit as well as in plate. If I can get him to drop that shield of his for a moment, I think we can make much progress to mutual benefit.

Perhaps then I might have someone that I can call 'friend'

[Skafloc]

I was wrong. Leoren holds more secrets close to him than I gave him credit for.

The audacity! That they would casually discuss cheating Evanthe out of the material she was promised, right before my eyes. That he already held that material, confiscated from Henri Fynne and did not feel the need to mention that little fact until the truth of it was revealed by a slip of the tongue on the part of our poor human.

I do not regret revealing his little secret. That he had warned Evanthe of Fynne's threats towards her. A fact he kept from Nymare. I would have held that secret close. I would not have spoken had he proved open with me.

He lied to me, lied to Evanthe and lied to Nymare. What damage did those lies do to him? What turmoil did it spawn? Time will tell.

His armor is not a impenetrable as all that it would appear. I have found a chink, perhaps there are more.

Friendship has taken a beating I fear.

[Skafloc]

I was a fool. A fool to believe that the plan would go as expected. A fool to have allowed myself to be used as bait, then discarded out of hand.

For indeed it is clear to me now that was Leoren's plan all along. It is obvious the assault force was in place, ready and waiting for his signal. All he needed was for Alyiane to be distracted from Nymare. That is exactly what my role was, a distraction. Well, he got that in spades. More than merely distracted, the woman had her demon thrall haul me down into the bowels of her lair to her fel cursed altar, leaving Nymare unattended.

Oh the rescue party came alright. Following the intrepid blood knight into the cave and directly to the unattended Nymare, where precious time was spent with him mewling over her plight. Meanwhile the warlock woman had her time to do her dark deeds. My welfare was an afterthough. Indeed I doubt it was even Leoren who finally gave thought to my whereabouts. I had served my purpose, his goal achieved.

Now I bear the fruits of that neglect of duty, of that betrayal. Oh there were promises made, a sharing of knowledge to benefit both the rune inflicted Nymare and myself. Where are they now? What word from them? Nothing. Silence. An casual encounter with Sabachthan and some cryptic words of advice are all Evanthe and I have had to go on. She has been forced to research this on her own, drawing from what resources she could muster. Clever woman that she is, I have no doubt she will find a solution. I feel she is close.

The days have been dark since that night in the cave and the realization that I was branded with Alyiane's fel rune. I torment at seeing her at every turn, with every glance into a woman's eyes. I see her and I respond, against all will and desire. I feel revultion at what I have been reduced to.

Tamora, Ninorra, Hellista, all those I think might have some insight have been privvy to my plight. Sooner or later this will be resolved. I remain confident.

Then there will be a reckoning.

[Skafloc]

My initial anger has disipated somewhat. I still feel that sense of being let down by one I at one time considered a friend, even felt a kinship to on some level. I know this is far from over, but my thoughts dwell not on retribution as they once did. More prominent is my desire to be rid of this cursed rune.

Now, thanks to Evanthe, Tamora and others there seems to be a solution. Albeit there is a catch. There always is a catch I am learning when fel magics are concerned. A part of me is curious whether Alyiane intended to complete the trinity of runes on me, giving her total control, mind, body and soul, and simply ran out of time and only completed the one. Or if indeed she purposely left it incomplete, knowing full well the difficulties that would pose in its removal. Perhaps she simply did not know the rune, Odes as it is called referring to the Mind, was in fact part of a trinity of runes.

Is that how she has control over Fynne? It seems likely.

On another note entirely, I have discovered alcohol dampens the effect of the rune. When I am pissed drunk I do not see Alyiane's face when I look at a woman in her eyes. All I see is a blur. Perhaps her face is indeed still there, but I do not recognize it or are perhaps too drunk to care.

Alcohol, working as intended.

[Skafloc]

Much has happened. The solution was a success, however it did not come without risks. Evanthe and I share a new bond now as a result, one that transcends any oaths or vows made of spoken word. However, its nature must be jealously guarded. I am loathe to even put it to words here lest by chance my archives fall into questionable hands. Those that are fully aware I can count on one hand, and they are close to me.

The extended family is growing again, with a renewed sense of committment towards each other. There is a move towards a clearer understanding of what it means to be Nex'Cruor. Most of that credit goes to Lovely, who I suspect desired this greatly as a means of dealing with her recent losses.

Which leads me to my thoughts of last night.

Ghosts. Last night was all about ghosts of the past, both recent and distant. Consistent with unspoken laws of all things, they came in three.

The first ghost was Tamora's. Her selfless delving into the dark research of rune lore on my behalf has taken a toll. By her own admission she feels something deep within her psyche that had been shut away it was believed forever has been distrubed from its quiet slumber. Something that should have remained locked away. Her sleeplessness and dark nightmares have brought the seemmingly indomidable woman to a troubled state. She spoke of it at length to Evanthe and I, but there is much more to talk about. Evanthe seems to believe that this is a case of her secretly missing the power the fel arts gave her in her past, regardless of her concious rejection of that path long ago. Deep down, she relishes the power that her knowledge brought and the return to that knowledge in the course of her research was secretly intoxicating, whether she was aware of it nor not. I can only speak of what I see and sense, and to me I see many of the same symptoms in Tamora as I see in mana junkies, who although weaned from overindulgence fall into darkness after a moment of weakness.

Of course, her state of mind did not help when the subject of Lovely came up. Regardless, I had to be honest and blunt with her. I owe her that. I had to try to bring her around to looking at it from Lovely's point of view, the stresses and losses she underwent trying to find her missing sister. Whether I succeeded at all I cannot say, but I hope that in a moment of relative calm she can find it in her heart to see what Lovely was feeling and seeing from her point of view.

The second ghost came with the arrival of Diomades. This was the first face to face meeting of Dio with Evanthe. Of course Dio knew all about Evanthe from his investigations of her surrounding the issue of Alin Vos'Arynn, Nymare's ex fiance and tormentor. That meeting ressurected the ghost of that past conflict. It also raised the issue of Evanthe's missing brother, Ephram. She is considering hiring Diomades to search for him. That she misses him is plain to me, although she does not speak of it often. Still, it is there.

I will follow this investigation very closely for several reasons. First and foremost as it is what will hopefully bring some much needed answers to my beloved and some measure of closure. Simply the mysterious circumstances of his dissappearance alone merit investigation, however I cannot forget that Alin died while in his custody. Are the two circumstances related? Did Ephram learn something from the beast before he perished from his ordeal?

One thing this discussion achieved was that it did serve to allow Evanthe and I to speak frankly of those events of the past spring, exorcising that ghost from our past.

Finally there was the third ghost. I cannot even begin to explain the shock and confusion this ghost brought to me. She came out of the ether completely unexpectedly and against all reason. Thinking back on the night I can recall now that she was hovering at the perimeter of my vision for most of the evening. I took no heed of her other than a vague awareness of her presence. I certainly did not get a good look at her until much later outside the Bazaar auction house. I was speaking to Evanthe when over her shoulder I saw her face peering at me from behind a shrub. There were a few moments of confusion as my brain tried to grasp what it was seeing, which swiftly turned my blood cold when recognition hit home.

This just could not be. Felina! My own dear, departed sister. Slain so long ago at the behest of Clys in part out of mercy from her fatal condition and in a small part to punish her for treason. Betrayal born out of love for the Kaldorei Verloran.

We managed to intercept her before she ran away once her presence was discovered. But the answers to my many questions were vague and incomplete. She was not my Felina, yet her name was so very similar. Feleena, she called herself. She was family, or so she claimed, but was loathe to explain any more about who she was and where she came from. Before I could press her for more information she slipped away in the confusion of the late night Bazaar shoppers.

Who is this woman? Where did she come from, looking as close to Felina as a twin sister? I will have these answers!

This is a ghost I will track down wherever she may haunt.

[Skafloc]

I scarce know how to relate this in such a manner that it does not sound like I have completely lost my senses.

Indeed, the very tale that the woman Feleena recounts is so utterly bizarre that it could very well be fact. No con artist or mummer would create such an unbelievable story if they wished to be taken seriously. Would they?

I managed to track her down to ask my many questions. Slowly and seemingly with reluctance her tale emerged.

My experience with the Caverns of Time is such that I can somewhat comprehend the possibilty that her tale might hold merit. But I am no philisopher or spiritualist.

My daughter! Seeing her up close I could easily see that she was not a twin in likeness to my sister Felina as I originally percieved. But her resemblance is uncanny enough that there is no mistake her blood is Ran'Deau.

But there is another influence on her looks. It is subtle, but there nonetheless. The legacy of her mother.

I am at a loss as to what to think. The things she talks about in relation to the world she is from bear little resemblance to the realities of what is around us. The lives of those I know and hold, or in some cases held dear having seemingly taken much different paths than those we now tread.

Was her future time the same as the one we now move towards? Or some alternate possible future? I can already see where a few recent deaths here have changed the reality of our future, as opposed to the one she describes.

Assuming of course she is who she says she is. Our blood has been sampled and delivered to Clys for analysis. I received the results this morning.

That she is of my blood there is no further doubt in Clys' mind. What remains inconclusive is the identity of her mother. From her hints Evanthe is the most likely. A prospect that came as a shock to my dearest, understandably so.

Is she indeed my daughter, or is she the daughter of some other Skafloc, who existed in another time stream? Is there a difference? Is that man myself, or should he be as a twin to me, alike in body, but so different in mind and experiences?

My head aches at trying to sort out the implications of all this.

[Skafloc]

It has been busy, but now that the ball is over and I have time to write I must comment on the letter I received a few days ago.

It was sent by some accountant no less. I suppose that made it easier for her to reconcile, keeping her hands somewhat clean of the offending dung the letter contained.

Despite all that has happened, all the present tension, I know in my heart that there were days of joy and bliss in those months we were wed. I made an error in assuming she might have in some recesses of her heart felt the same. The contents of that letter speak volumes as to what I actually meant to her.

All those nights I watched over her in her restless nightmare riddled sleep, warding off the darkness. The sun filled days of exploring the world, swimming in mountain lakes pristine and pure. Being silly and playing pirate games. Babysitting orphans and sharing ice cream. Walking hand in hand through Silvermoon to go shopping. Having brunch in the warmth of the back garden patio.

All of that, summed up in the contents of the letter. A money order for a modest sum of gold. Payment for "services rendered," with an offer of more should I deem the sum insufficient to square off any debt.

I didn't even fully remove the bank note from the envelope before resealing it and marking "RETURN TO SENDER" in bold letters on the front.

I will be content with my memories as payment. If she feels she needs to clear her concience with gold, she can send that to her sisters. Unless she has forgotten them as well.

I should go visit them today. Little Anaralah still wishes me to help her practice her marksmanship.

[Skafloc]

A War.

That is what lovely said were Leoren's parting comments.

A war with whom I wonder? What armies shall be called upon to wage this war upon House Nex'Cruor?

Lovely acted according to what she felt needed to be done, out of honor and respect for her house. I can well understand her motivation and the necessity of the deed. An unaswered threat against the family would have been unacceptable.

So where will the intrepid Blood Knight cull his army from? His own clan of Ordo Letalis? Baron Karkarov I suspect would have some concerns over that. His association with Mistress Clys is long and storied. I cannot envision what it would take for him to sanction taking up arms against her House. Villayna deSinisca is herself part of that extended family of Nex'Cruor. She may not have any love for us, but legally and contractually she is part of us which meant the threat against us was a threat against her. For her to sanction taking up arms against us could very well result in the immediate forteiture of her lands and estates into our hands.

The Grim? It is no secret Nymare has been seen in the company of Qabian of the Grim of late. Perhaps they might wish to seek aid from that legendary clan? After all, Leoren's very own sister is of their ranks. However, the reprimand was not directed at Leoren, rather Lovely intended it for Nymare alone. Mistress Clys has also been afforded priviledge and honor from the leaders of the Grim. House Nex'Cruor has not been idle over the years in forging relationships of mutual respect. I do not expect that they will be so quick to support any action directed against an ally. The Grim respect strength and authority. I suspect many of them would see no problem in the action Lovely took against the dishonor and threats displayed by my ex wife.

The House of Ghant? Perhaps. Although by her own admission Nymare has left their House. Oh she told Lovely she remained a reserve member. Is that enough of a committment for the Heirs to rally to her cause against another they held an ally? I have fought at their side often, had many respectful exchanges with the brothers. My respect and honor to them is not in question. Malorii is one of my most trusted friends. Netheryn holds respect for his house as paramount. Disrespect against the House of Ghant would have been dealt with severely. Would he expect us to do no less? What will he think knowing that disrespect came from one of his own former servants? The irony is I imagine they would have been more than happy if the attack had been fatal. Nymare would have then been ripe for a ressurection to the ranks of the undead, thus enforcing the fullfillment of her oath to them.

The Cartel? Lovely's status with Silvermoon University and the sponsorship they enjoy from the Cartel ensures that would be a controversial action. Besides, I cannot see the honor bound Leoren stooping to hiring merceneries, not after his own feelings about that action were made clear to Lovely.

Perhaps they will seek aid from across the factional divide? If that were attempted and made known, that they allied with enemies against a House of the Horde, any support they might have would swiftly evaporate.

So it falls to being an army of two.

Cry havok! and let loose the dogs of war!

[Skafloc]

In hindsight it was a foolish thing to do. Curiosity almost killing the cat so to speak.

Just what it is that the trolless is up to is starting to become more clear, however there were still many unanswered questions. I was learning much from the Blood Knight until the others arrived for the excursion into Dire Maul, timely as it turned out as her questions were becoming more probing as to what in fact I knew.

Still, any rune knowledge from that place is something I must keep a watchful eye over.

However, I shall never be so foolish to venture into that arcane laced place in the company of anyone other than my most trusted allies. Certainly not with another warlock other than Evanthe. I escaped a near disaster, it was only by sheer luck that the warlock present was Videlle. She has my trust as far as warlock can be trusted. Still what do I really know of her? Some research is in order. She has been drawn into this web by no design of her own.

Warlocks. My own words come back to haunt me. "Meddling in the affairs of warlocks is dangerous." Would that in this at least I was proven wrong. Alas it was not to be. Something went terribly wrong at Nymare's ritual. Of that there is no question. What exactly is another matter. The results however are tragic to say the least. Broxigan left blinded and Sabachthan himself missing. Drawn into a portal is what I have heard. Of Nymare's condition I have no word.

They feared Lord Ghant dead, but later that same eve Evanthe and I, fresh from my trauma in Dire Maul, encountered Sabachthan in Deadwind Pass. At least it was a being that looked like Lord Ghant. If it was indeed him, I fear for his sanity. He vanished before we could do anything.

I must talk to Evanthe on this. Also Xenaken and Faelen. We must find out what went wrong so that an attempt can be made to draw him back.

[Izrail]

Drawn into a portal is what I have heard. Of Nymare's condition I have no word.

((The otherwise serious tone of the post was undermined by this nice couplet.))

[Skafloc]

I really should map this out sometime. The web grows ever more complex.

--> Nymare and Leoren. ?? Possible false branch, yet the trolless Xaraphyne was making inquiries. Is it that Leoren is a Blood Knight? But then so is Dracovisca, and that branch bore fruit. More on him in a bit..

--> Xaraphyne. Still ?? Although I think I am getting closer to the truth as far as she in concerned. The Blood Elf Avielandil was a tremendous wellspring of insight, even if she did not realize it. So where does she and her crew stand, in support or do they work to contain the threat? It is perhaps time for another encounter, perhaps less salt and more honey.

--> Videlle. I need to locate her, both for this mystery and for that other thing, but she seems to have disappeared. Her role is also still not fully understood, but that runes are involved there can be no mistake. What was she doing there?

--> The Wolfrunners. Yes the two legged kind. I have two names; Sinaku and Jazziks. Now the hunt can begin in earnest. Let us see how the two legged kind fare in avoiding the four legged of the Great pack. Wotan is eager for the trail.

--> Dracovisca. A new player but as it turned out an extremely valuable resource. My instincts to approach him were correct. Those lines of communication should remain open. He is well placed.

--> Evanthe. As in all things she is being kept in the loop. With runes involved she will be vitally important I sense in time. Also I know she wishes to learn of Videlle's whereabouts, perhaps more so than even I. Not related to the Wolfrunners. Rangers of the Dark Sun?

Farstriders are lending me their ear when they have information, but it is scant. They are not shy about stressing the urgency of this matter on me, with their image and honor being strained. They harbor no love for the Blood Knights, but cannot risk being thought of as complacent.

Still, I work for my own purposes. That theirs and mine coincide is a fortunate coincidence for them.

More will I write when I have more to tell.

How does Diomades do this? I really need this mapped out.

[Skafloc]

It was working, of that I am almost certain. That is until that Forsaken warlock came and agitated her all over again.

I actually felt the feral scream more than heard it. Wotan perked up immediately, having felt the same thing. It was just chance that Evanthe and I were in the area at the time, although chance is something I am starting to look at with suspicion. Only a fool can miss the fact that powers are at play here behind the scenes.

It was almost impossible trying to sort out what exactly had happened on that beach. Those we found were either too traumatized to make much sense or were simply unwilling to talk.

A quick side note; I am fully convinced that far too many Blood Knights, paladins, whatever they wish to call themselves allow their emotions to get the better of them to the point it clouds reason. That young Cartel blood knight that arrived at the scene was a perfect example, to ignore the poor injured and bleeding girl lying prone on the sand to dash to Jazziks side, despite the combined efforts of Evanthe and I to assure him she was unharmed, at least not physically. The girl with her throat torn was in dire need of attention, but that simply did not seem to register. I bandaged her as well I could with a field dressing, but would that I had the power of healing. They wield so much power and potential to make difference in a meaningful way, but far to frequently they want for discipline and act on impluse.

Tracking Videlle was a simple matter, the trail of blood from the corpse she dragged off was a clear beacon. I was not prepared for what I found however. She was feral, changed and raging. More wolf than woman. Of the man, Sinaku there was no sign. He is an elusive one for certain.

I do not know what prompted me to try the taming, the thought came to me out of desperation as much as out of a sense that I needed to try something. All I wanted to do was to try to calm her rage, but in the calming I swear to the Sunwell her elfen side was reasserting itself. I did not imagine it, she was changing slowly back to her normal self.

Vashj's Teats! What was that warlock thinking snatching the body away like that? Thank fel Xaraphyne and Evanthe were on hand to help rectify that blunder.

I.. (( an ink blotch appears on the page here ))

I almost dropped my quill. Chauncy just passed by my study door, sweeping the hall with a large broom in his hands. It reminded me of something hilarious on more than one level.

I lost my train of thought. Oh yes, Xaraphyne. Something has been nagging at me for several days now and only after that night's events did it come clear. Something she said to me that evening in Eversong. I need to talk to her on this.

On another note, Malorii is gone. I has no idea what she was going to attempt to do but as I stood there with the others it was slowly becoming plain. By the time full realization hit it was too late and she vanished along with Sabachthan. Where they wander now I cannot say, but I am certain she is seeking for the true Lord Ghant to try to bring him back. Evanthe is standing by to attempt to summon her if needed. Whether that will work or not is something beyond my realm of knowledge.

( A doodle marks the bottom of the page, but it is scribbled over. ))

[Skafloc]

I have decided purple is not such a bad color after all. It has its charm.

[Vilmah]

I have decided purple is not such a bad color after all. It has its charm.

((*wink*))

[Skafloc]

Malorii is still missing, but as was the case with Sabachthan she is somehow managing to interact with us, I am certain. I have no definite proof that the strange items I have been receiving in the mail are from her, unlikely as it is, but everything inside tells me they are. The scent of ashes and violets is signature.

I am not alone in this it seems. Evanthe has been having a re-occuring nightmare where she enters a strange landscape through a mirror. A barren wasteland of ashes with a soitary scorched apple tree. Chained to the tree with barbed wire is Malorii in great pain. The tree is scorched and barren of fruit, yet is covered in blossoms. A promise of life?

Is the dream a metaphor for Malorii's existence? Living a reality of death and ashes yet prisoner to an echo of life, of the past she cannot recall but haunts her still whether she is aware of it or not?

But why Evanthe? All I know is she has not been sleeping well.

I must also speak to Xaraphyne. It may be nothing or it may be everything, but what I have found in the Hinterlands needs to be explored further. The Revantusk know more than they are saying, that is plain. Perhaps in the presence of one of their own people their tongues will loosen up.

* a break in the script, followed by another quick entry *

Still need to meet Whispersoft.

I gave Chauncey a raise the other day. The old chap has been managing the plantation superbly in my frequent absence. Besides, when Malorii returns he will need the extra pay for therapy I am suspecting, if she was in fact serious about what she told me that day before she vanished.

[Malorii]

, when Malorii returns he will need the extra pay for therapy I am suspecting


(( puhahahaha.... ))

[Skafloc]

It has been 2 days since the 'incident' and only now has Evanthe calmed down enough to speak of it. Understandable as I found myself shaken by the horror of that night.

We had her! By the Old Gods we did, in our very bedchambers she lay coated in some foul ichor.

Malorii.

What transpired or how she managed the feat is something I cannot even begin to fathom. It was a simple mirror by Nighbane's Mane! Yet there she was staring at us from its depths, reaching out pleadingly. Instinct alone caused Evanthe to extend her hand to her I believe. Instincts that proved justified as her hand sunk into the silvery depths turned liquid to grasp Malorii's wrist. A combined effort of tugging seemingly yanked her out of what she called "in between" to lie panting and spent on the floor.

We scarce had time to speak however when the horror struck. Something wanted her back, badly. The clawed hand that shot out of the mirror to close vice like on her ankle was something out of a nightmare, dragging her back into the mirror and beyond.

The screams still echo in my head. Malorii's screams of pain and panic, overlayed with Evanthe's screech of terror and despair. She flung herself at Malorii in vain attempt to keep her out, but I swear if I had not grabbed her from behind she could very well have been pulled into the mirror along with Malorii, such was the strength of the fel arm that held the rogue in its grasp.

By all the gods, old and new I swear that I will spend every mote of power in my body and soul, such as it is to never have them scream like that again.

There is a way out, Malorii proved that. Indeed Sabachthan himself proved it many a time, to some extent. That fel arm proved that the way is also open to get in.

We just might be able to reach them, but we will probably need help.

Nymare has offered her help, as I expected. Sabachthan was dear to her I know. What she can offer I cannot imagine, but there may be a role to play. Qabian is a key, but every stich of my being is telling me this 'deal' he has worked out with Malorii, whatever it may be, is a hindrance rather than a boon.

Perhaps the prospect of having Malorii haunt his dreams for eons will be enough incentive to lend his aid. That and the knowledge that she speaks not just to him, but others as well.

( a fresher newer paragraph follows)

She has returned. No, not Malorii. I speak of the Stormraven. Andisiliel. It has been half a year since the last information on the woman made its way to my study. Since then it was as if she had simply vanished from the globe. I had suspicions she was hiding out in Outland, which would explain her absence from any place Azerothian.

Imagine my surprise as she turned up in the foothills of Halaa. Imagine the good fortune that I was present.

She will find me not so unprepared this time should she still harbor some vendetta against me and mine. A lesson I think she learned this night.

[Skafloc]

I should probably not have snapped at Tamora nor Vilmah as I did, but Blessed Sun Above, could they not see that there was much more going on then they were aware of?

I cannot blame them for wanting to render aid, but damn it all! When someone appears with an explanation people should at least have the common courtesy of listening to them before going off all half baked and making matters worse!

Eva and I still need to filter through what exactly transpired, try to come to some understanding of it. Even so, I think I can safely say that there is indeed something else using the Sabachthan doppelganger for their own nefarious reasons. From the nature of what he was doing when he dissappeared I think I can point a finger to one of two sources.

That was not Sabachthan that used Evanthe's rune against us. It was obvious enough that even Lascivious picked up on that. It may have looked like him, spoke with his voice, but the tone was most definitely not him. The attacks against us and poor Brox were savage.

As I told Khaell, enough is enough. Far too much valuable information is spread out between too many different people. It is time this was coralled into a single purpose. The events of that night need to be told, along with all subesquent visitations.

Faelen, Xenaken, Nymare, Broxigan, Evanthe and even myself. We all have pieces of this puzzle. Even Malorii has managed to find a way to issue her instructions. We would be foolish to ignore them.

[Skafloc]

They chose the most innappropriate time to come swooping down on me and calling me to task for speaking about Feleena. I was still left with a sour taste in my mouth from the encounter with Qabian earlier in the evening, a taste that a few tankards of Darkmoon reserve failed to wash away entirely. It did however serve to make my mood volatile.

Blabbering indeed! It was not as if I stood on a Silvermoon rooftop and broadcast the tale for the general populace. Even so, what if I did? She is my daughter and I will speak of her to whomever I please thank you very much. She is a grown woman and becomes stronger and more confident by each passing day. We make no pretense around people when we greet each other in public and it is quite obvious she is of my blood. Yet they would have me treat her like some dirty little secret that needs be hidden away among the many Nex'Cruor closet skeletons.

She is a Ran'Deau by blood. Yes she may hold some tie to Nex'Cruor but that is only through the tenuous circumstances that led to her mother bearing that name. I will not be ashamed of her. It is not her fault that she came to be trapped in a timeline where her father and mother lead two very different lives from the ones her natural parents led. She should not be punished unfairly for that. I will not.

What distressed me the most perhaps was the revelation the news of my innocent tale to Nymare reached Clys' ears so swiftly through a spy, as she herself verified. So now I learn that being family does not exempt one from having their personal lives scrutinized, reported on and interfered with. The fact that I am Clys' one true blood relative in this menagerie called the Nex'Cruor made this intrusion even harder to swallow. I will certainly not sit by idle while some vagrant house sitter who wandered off the street one day and decided to stay, even going so far as adopting the noble name of Nex'Cruor at a whim sits there in smug judgement over me on whom I talk to about my daughter. To this day we know next to nothing about Izrail or his past. If Clys is content to allow him inside her castle walls so be it, but I will not be welcoming him so openly into the Ran'Deau plantation house. Let the Nex'Cruor bear that risk.

Nymare and Evanthe need to talk, that much is plain. We run in circles around the solution of how to rescue Sabachthan and Malorii, wasting time that I cannot help but feel is slipping away at an ever increasing rate. Niethan was a challenge to try to get cooperation from, but I think when the time comes he will be willing to aid those lost innocent souls he sees surrounding the shade of Sabachthan. As to the 'other' or others as the case may be, dealing with THAT may prove more challenging.

Portals.. Mirrors.. where is the solution? Malorii tells Evanthe one thing and sets her on a quest, yet Qabian brings news of an entirely different set of instructions. Could it be that Evanthe recieved her instructions from something posing as Malorii as Qabian suggests? By that same token, his instructions could just as easily be from other than what he believes. Who is to say? Sabachthan does not clarify what is needed to be done. I am not convinced he can.

It is plain that something needs to be tried soon, but I fear the consequences should the solution attempted turn out to be the wrong one. Instead of rescuing those lost, we could very well be sending them some companions.

The thought makes my blood run cold, as there is no question whom those companions would likely be.

[Qabian]

I was still left with a sour taste in my mouth from the encounter with Qabian earlier in the evening, a taste that a few tankards of Darkmoon reserve failed to wash away entirely.

((...

I really hope that's a terribly selected metaphor or someone's playing a doppelganger because... yeah, no, I don't remember any... yeah. What?))

[Skafloc]

((...

I really hope that's a terribly selected metaphor or someone's playing a doppelganger because... yeah, no, I don't remember any... yeah. What?))

(( Yeah, when I went back to re-read what I wrote that line did jump out at me as....questionable. But I decided to let it stay just to see if it would go by unnoticed. ))

[Nymare]

((.... BUAHAHAHAHA that was worse than mine.))

[Sabachthan]

[[ I'm going to pay you all back for your dirty minds with my next insanity. ]]

[Malorii]

(bow chicka wow wowwwww )

[Evanthe]

[[ I'm going to pay you all back for your dirty minds with my next insanity. ]]

[This I would -love- to see.]

[Malorii]

((skafloc is like .. the canadian equivlent to the bodi shavatta. Seeing him get riled up is like seeing buddha bitch slap a toddler. ))

[Skafloc]

I never would have thought in my wildest dreams that the death screams of ogres mixed with the angry hissing of a furious windserpent would make for excellent dinner music.

Strangely enough it did. The food was excellent as well, as was the wine.

But then it could have been a dumpy fish and chip stall in Booty Bay for all that it mattered. It was the company that made the evening special.

[Skafloc]

Evanthe.

I cannot begin to fathom what pain she must be enduring from having to do what she did. I know how much Malorii meant to her. All her efforts, all this time was for her benefit, her rescue. Not Sabachthan's. The Heir's welfare means little to her, this I know. She does this for me, and for Malorii.

There is more yet to be done and I pray she is up to the task at hand, for I sense time runs short. The wheels have been set in motion.

Leoren.

This I will freely admit. If nothing else the man has a genuine knack for getting under my skin. I should have shrugged his comment off, but once again his timing was perfect. I see how it is now. When Leoren Evershine leaves his post and his comrades to rush to his woman's side in her distress, he is considered a romantic hero. When Skafloc does it he is a coward.

Nice.

Never mind that this was not some large scale invasion. A small band of brigands, easily handled. In any other circumstance I would have tossed his flippant remark aside, but coming from such as him at that time it was a bitter pill to swallow.

Nymare.

If she is not careful she will lose everything, again.

[Chikt]

((Dio is onto you, bucko!

*Fist shake*))

[Nymare]

Nymare.

If she is not careful she will lose everything, again.

((She lost everything at some point? o.0))

[Skafloc]

((She lost everything at some point? o.0))

(( Its a matter of perspective. In his mind she did when they divorced and had to start over. Certainly her point of view would be entirely different. ;) ))

[Nymare]

(( Its a matter of perspective. In his mind she did when they divorced and had to start over. Certainly her point of view would be entirely different. ;) ))
((bah, I figure he would see her as having thrown it all away! But I'll get outta your journal now. /doom!))

[Skafloc]

((bah, I figure he would see her as having thrown it all away! But I'll get outta your journal now. /doom!))

(( [Elektra King]: I could have given you the world.
[James Bond]: The world is not enough.
[Elektra King]: Foolish sentiment.
[James Bond]: Family motto. ))

[Skafloc]

I had to brush the dust off the cover of this journal before taking up quill and ink. It has been some time since I wrote my thoughts, at least here in this tome.

The vacation cruise was perfect. The few incidents we encountered only served to make the getaway more exhilirating and enjoyable. I won't go into the details of that trip here, as it is all well documented in the Sea Log (http://www.wow-tng.org/showthread.php?t=8450) we maintained for safekeeping. It was exactly what we both needed. The weeks prior to Winter's Veil were stressful to say the least with Evanthe in particular needing that time away from things to settle her own mind I think over the difficult task she had to perform. Having to slay your very dearest friend at their request in order to try to save someone else is one of those nightmare scenarios that academics like to use to test people's responses, with the full knowledge that very few actually get thrust into such a situation for real.

Upon our return however it became swiftly apparent that the world had not ceased to turn in our absence.

The last of my belongings have arrived today from Castle Melar Danashj. The former Asylum is little more than a home to ghosts now. It was a bittersweet decision to leave the Castle and the Order as I have forged very close relationships with many who graced those halls, but the days of my service to them have come to a close I feel. Evanthe herself moved her things out prior to our vacation. I will maintain contact with my friends and they will always be able to count on my help if I am able to deliver.

The question I have been asked by some is what is next? That is one I am loathe to answer for the moment. I feel no compulsion to offer my services to anyone in particular in the short term, at least not in any rush. Certainly not before I have a clear understanding of what it is they can offer me in return for my services.

Scarce did we arrive back home when I ran into Nymare in Tirisfal. She has sent out letters to all who were in attendance at the ill fated ritual that resulted in the loss of Sabachthan Ghant in the hopes of organizing a gathering. This is something I felt long ago was necessary, but perhaps the time was not yet ripe nor the atmosphere settled enough for people to feel right about it. Hopefully it will be so now. The news she had of Felwood was unsettling. Enough that yesterday I went to the Ruins of Constellas to see for myself what transpired.

Although I do not possess the same insights that Evanthe (and apparently Nymare herself these days) possess, there was no mistaking the aggitated state of the satyr that inhabited the ruins. Although they still haunt the area, perhaps out of some reluctance to abandon their well established foothold, it is plain that they are in distress. The Moonwell itself is , well active for lack of a better word. Can it be the Heir as Nymare believes? The series of events leading to this and the timing all point to that being a very strong possibility.

I await further news from her.

It seems in our absence Silvermoon City has become the new headquarters and gathering place for The Grim. I can scarce walk the streets without passing their tell tale black and red tabard on every street corner and park bench. Not that it is of particular concern to me, but it is a curiosity nevertheless.

I am sure I have forgotten much that probably should have been recorded here but this is all I have for the moment. I am sure if something noteworthy escaped my attention here something will transpire in time to remind me of it.

[Skafloc]

I lied a bit last night. I said I didn’t care who slept with whom, that it was really none of my concern. That was not the lie, at least not completely. I really don’t care if Whispersoft is staying true to Clys as her life mate or whether she decides to make herself available to the entire student body of Silvermoon U. So long and Clys is aware of that and has no issues who am I to waste time worrying about other peoples affairs?

Well in fact I find that I am indeed worrying about it. Not because of them specifically (although if family does not have the right to worry then who can?) but because of the seemingly easy way so many of our people spend so much effort pursuing the pleasures of the moment with complete abandonment of any sense of self discipline.

What happened to the vows one makes in a “life bond”? What is the purpose of the words if they are so empty of meaning? I find many people today cannot even bring themselves to call it a marriage any more, whether it be a traditional pairing of man and woman or a non-traditional commitment between to loves of the same gender. This “pair bond” is perhaps easier to accept as it allows them the freedom from commitment and willingness to devote oneself to a single person.

I have never cheated on a love. Even when Evanthe and I had our falling out last spring and I began to date Nymare in earnest, we never lay together until the relationship with Evanthe was broken. In our marriage I was faithful and dutiful to her, having eyes for no other. I know now that the marriage was a mistake true. In a marriage there will be arguments and there will be times of crisis. I can recall some of the fights my parents went through in those early years of my life before their deaths in the Amani wars. There were times I was certain they would part ways, but in the end they always returned to each other to talk and work it out. They had a desire to show commitment to their relationship and make it work knowing that it would not always be sunshine and roses. They loved each other enough to work through the pains and difficulties of which there were enough as I recall. There will be failures and there will be moments of weakness. This happens. It is how we deal with those that define a marriage that is strong and based on a firm foundation against one that is hanging on a tenuous thread.

My marriage to Nymare was not strong enough to survive the test of crisis, I see that now. It is nobody’s fault, and does not diminish the fact I care for her deeply, but I do not love her truly, nor do I think did she. We were dazzled by each other and the need of the time overshadowed reason. When the dust settled and we came to our first crisis the marriage could not survive.

However, the fact that Evanthe came back to me and we have been able to not only work past the problems we had in the past but renew our own relationship with a fervor that makes my marriage pale by comparison is testament to the fact that we both share that elusive commitment to each other that I see so lacking in others.

When we wed, I will say the words. I will make my vows to her and to all those assembled and I will mean them. I will not vow to share her with anyone, nor will I vow to love her when she is around but seek other companionship when she is not. My vow to her will be to commit.

I find it hard to fault the others who cannot seem to grasp this concept of commitment. It is just another symptom of how our people are failing. Seeking pleasure and instantaneous satisfaction for our addictions is what got us into the fel snare set by Kael Thas to begin with. It is just another example of how far was are falling in our decent. It is a problem when an acolyte priestess finds it blasphemous to call me a “bastard” yet finds no problem in her friend Whispersoft being wed to Clys, yet romantically dating Sethinus and sleeping with Hellista. This is what passes for spiritual guidance and moral foundation in our priesthood? I had held high hopes for Lelea but she seems to have fallen from her moral standard and joined the masses in acceptance of their wanton pleasure seeking. A shining example of what is befalling our people as a whole. I am convinced more than ever the path we must tread to saving the future of our people is the one that I have been mulling over. Perhaps it is time to test the waters.

As to the matter of the affairs, whom she sleeps with is not as important to me as the fact that she is sleeping around. It is fortuitous that she has renounced any claim to the NexCruor estate for if she did not I would fight her legally on the grounds of adultery for that right. I will not see the Nex’Cruor estate fall into her hands should Clys perish. I owe Morgauth my brother in spirit that much. A simple walk around the Nex’Cruor cemetery will reveal that the name Ran’Deau appears almost as often as the name Nex’Cruor. That legacy spans centuries and is not easily tossed aside. I will not allow it.

Oh, of course it was mentioned that they are immortal and I should not worry about it.

Hah! Nothing is immortal. I was once immortal until I died.

[Lelea]

((<3 Skafloc. Best RP EVER last night))

[Sabachthan]

(( hear hear my dear baron, hear hear ))

[Lascivious]

(Skafloc just called all you hoe bags out.)

[Skafloc]

Lascivious is an odd bird.

She seems to have no recollection of antagonistic display she showed the other night to Evanthe and I. That she was trying to intice some reaction from us was plain, but for what purpose was a mystery.

I received a call on my stone later that same eve from the Grim Blood Knight Kiaransalius who seemed to be aware of the altercation and tried to explain it away as Lescivious being under some stress or some such.

Fine. I found it more amusing than menacing truth be told. As I told Lascivious last night when I encountered her again I would have known if she was serious as I would have been hit I expect rather than the verbal taunting that she engaged in.

The Lascivious I encountered last night was the old one I know and have some to regard with some measure of respect. She asked me why I was not in the Grim.

Oh my dear undead warrior there are many reasons that make an application to The Grim difficult for one such as myself. Not the least of which is that Mandate they seem to hold so dear. I admit I have the barest idea of what The Mandate in fact actually is. The few I have inquired of all seem to have a slightly different interpretation but they all agree for the most part in the fact that it orders "peace through Annihilation" or something of the sort. Basically there will be peace once the Alliance is gone. Meaning destroyed I imagine. All Alliance are the enemy and are to be neutralized.

That is something of a waste in my opinion. I have found that there are many tools among the Alliance to be nurtured and utilized to advantage. My use of such has borne fruit in the past and I see no reason to throw that option away. I mentioned as much to her and was surprised to see she was actually pondering my stance rather than reject it outright.

Perhaps there is more flexibility in the interpretation of the Grim Mandate than I had thought. If so that would make it more intriguing an offer. There is something to be said for having an organization behind you to draw strength from. I will have to discuss it with Evanthe.

Of course there is also the matter of a personal nature. It may be awkward having my ex wife in the same guild, although of late we seem to have come to a more stable and amicable relationship than in those months following the divorce. There is something to be said for maintaining a buffer zone however. Evanthe of course would find it more of an issue as the two do not get along very well at all.

There is also the matter of if it would be in fact worth my while. How heavily stacked are their ranks with hunters, rangers and farstriders? I know of several offhand. Would my talents and skills be utilized to their full potential or would I be marginalized? That would not be in my best interest.

Things to ponder.

[Kiaransalius]

((give eeeeennnnn!))

[Xaraphyne]

[[ *cough* I know of a guild... oh wait XP ]]

[Skafloc]

She sent Aquizit to seek out Evanthe? Why in the name of Rommath's panties would Nymare think Evanthe would have any idea where Malorii's things are?

No matter, we managed to clear up that misdirection with Aquizit.

"Nymare seems to know more than she is letting on." he says. Of course she does. She knows everything, you mean she didn't tell you? No? Curious. I wonder why, perhaps you should ask her.

Then Bir appears. It seems the two are in a relationship now, which in part explained Aquizit's strange interest in Malorii's things. Seems Malorii had some of Bir's things. Oh and some notes he wants to get his hands on. They feel Magister Qabian is holding those things.

Maybe he is and maybe he isn't. I knew they were living together for a very brief time but not at the end. If anyone holds the belongings of Malorii it would be Khaell Ghant. We told them as much, but they seemed insistent that Qabian held at least some.

Alright, so what are Evanthe and I expected to do about that? We have no reason to do anything. A glance at Evanthe's face during last night's strange conversations told me all that talk of Malorii was dredging up memories and feelings she had worked very hard to settle. I will not tear that scar open again.

[Skafloc]

So many days between my entries. I am negligent.

The wedding was spectacular. Evanthe was stunning and the ceremony conducted at the last minute by Ninorra as a substitute for Lelea who was ill went off beautifully. I was thrilled to see so many friends and aquaintances in attendance.

Things were settling in nicely afterwards until the news of the shipment thefts came to light. My investigations were leading towards an organized threat, the nature of which was revealed to all just days later with the open actions of Kael'Thas and his followers. They were obviously stockpiling in preparation for this initiative.

They say necessity makes strange bedfellows. I can appreciate the sentiment of that statement now. It was just a brief interlude in combat that enabled us to talk and I feel the words from both of us were carefully chosen, yet still it was an extraordinary moment. I want to tell him I know exactly what he was/is going through, but the time for a specific discussion of that is not now. It is too soon I think. What does she think she is doing? It is the same old argument again, fear to get too close out of fear of hurting the one she loves, yet in the leaving she accomplishes just that very result. I am beginning to suspect this is the legacy of Alin Vos’Arryn and it will be a long time before she manages to exorcise that spectre.

If nothing else I feel Leoren and I managed to arrive at a new understanding our actions in the past and a détente was reached. Something to expand upon in time. As it stands it would seem our goals are parallel. So as a measure of trust I accepted the offer to don the Raven Cross tabard and work towards that common end.

The information Anorah provided served well to close the loose ends to my own investigations. However many questions remain. I wish to follow the leads I do have as far as they will take me. But in order to do so I suspect that more dangerous measures may have to be taken. I do not relish what I think needs to be done, not since the last time I was temporarily in the hands of the Sunfury followers.

Still, if I want to disrupt the supply lines I will need to do so from within.

Evanthe will not be pleased at my plan I suspect, but if things become too dangerous she holds the key to my swift extraction. I will keep our link open so she knows I am safe.

I must make the preparations…

[Skafloc]

It has been weeks now since I last wrote.

I rarely sleep anymore, my days and nights occupied with trying to find her, trying to piece together some of the missing time from my captivity, trying to return to some semblance of normalcy.

Thus far my search has proven fruitless. There is no sign to be found of her, no rumor of her passing. Chauncey mentioned something the other day that I did not want to hear but in truth it is something that I have already considered but cannot bring myself to accept. It may well be that she simply fell prey to any one of the dangers this world or that other hold for the unwary explorer. Is that what happened? Does she lie in some remote wilderness far from well travelled paths? Some cave in a distant mountain or some swamp deep in an alien jungle, with no soulstone to restore her spirit?

I will not accept that yet, not while there is still hope.

I had to make a difficult decision this night, one I pray I will not come to regret. There really was no choice, not with Evanthe gone and her control over the runes waning. It was either this or remain secluded in the house like some recluse, avoiding contact with the outside world. That I simply cannot do if I want to continue my search.

Well, there is one other option, I could slay all warlocks I come across before they manage to have influence over me. It is strange but I am beginning to understand Mr. Fynne a bit more I think.

So, the decision was made. Better this than some random orc warlock stumbling upon me and sensing a vulnerability to exploit. Really there was only the two candidtates to choose from. Of the two she is the more known factor.

Convincing her proved easier than I expected, which may or may not be cause for concern. Time will tell. Of course she had some fun with it at my expense but it was nothing I did not anticipate. In the end she forced the runes back into dormancy, which was all I asked.

I have to admit there is some strange irony in the situation, something I am certain Evanthe will fail to see the humor in once I find her but that is a bridge I will cross when it comes.

For now at least one immediate worry has been taken care of.

*some lines scribbled out.. only the words "emptiness inside, " can be made out.

[Mystagogue]

((you know I *almost* did a

/em fiddles with Skafloc's runes

last night when I saw you. Always a day late *sigh* ))

[Lovely]

((Awww man....Hellista would have helped you out, AND she's more sane. Don't do it, brotha!!!! :) ))

[Skafloc]

((Awww man....Hellista would have helped you out, AND she's more sane. :) ))

(( Oh ya, sure she is. He thought of her for all of 15 seconds before deciding giving her that kind of control would be like putting the cat in charge of the canary. ))

[Skafloc]

It has been three weeks now with no sign or word of my wife. I have asked Izrail to do a walkthough of the plantation house with me, just to see if there is some residual trace of fel energies that may indicate a summons or a portal of some sort was used. It is grasping at straws I know but when there is nothing else to take hold of straws can seem like a lifeline.

I have tried to take time out from my searches to resume my work with the Cross if only to provide a distraction. Saphiara invited me as a guest on a University field trip which proved rewarding. Aferwards we talked for a time on the Aldor Terrace. She is a haunted one for certain. Would that I could show her that there is always a path out of the dark pit, sometimes more than one. Over the years I have managed to find them if only to fall into another pit.

Perhaps that is all there is, the unending cycle of falling into pits and the ponderous climb back to the open air. The key is to understand that the climb is worth the effort. I say this as I stare up at the open air from the bottom of yet another chasm. By returning to work I hope I am taking the first handhold in my ascent. Everyone asks me to keep hope alive and I do but with each passing day it becomes more difficult.

Anorah and myself made our mark in the valley which provided some satisfaction but my mind was not completely on the task at hand with the events of earlier in the day taking a prominent place. More straws? Time will tell.

Videlle. She returned to Silvermoon during the day from having disappeared suddenly some time ago. Another warlock vanished around the same time as Evanthe. She was for the most part incoherent, her basic explanation mentioning something about Accalia, that wolf spirit Xaraphyne and her crew were struggling with in the past. However the mention of that priest and his involvement in her disappearance gave me pause.

Deathshadow.

It is not lost on me that he threatened Evanthe in the not-so-long ago past. Can her disappearance be related to Videlle's? It is worth the investigation.

No stone unturned.

[Skafloc]

Sometimes to move forward one has to return to the beginning. I went back to basics last night and tamed a beast. Not that I really needed another companion animal to share journeys with, Elmo has served me well for quite some time and is a real menace on the battlegrounds. Although Wotan has slowed down in recent times, for it seems he is actually older than I originally thought, he still manages to strike an imposing dark figure of muscle and teeth.

No, this was done purely out of selfishness. A desire to relive that first feeling of wonder when my call to the wild was answered by that little dragonhawk hatchling that was to grow into my first companion.

It is no coincidence that Ebony is also a bird, just as it is no accident he is a dire raven.

There is much power in symbols.

He is a feisty one and I expect his training will be challenging. A good project to occupy me.

[Skafloc]

I am undecided if it was a mistake or not to go to Uldaman.

The act in itself was is not the problem. Helping out a fellow Cross Bearer is always a worthy task and she proved to be a delightful companion. Therein lies the issue.

Working alongside a warlock was as familiar to me as breathing. Of course she had to be a warlock that followed the path of Affliction. Her mannerisms were so similar that they could be sisters in blood but for the difference in hair color. I had to catch myself at times in the heat of battle from calling her by the wrong name.

I was more aggressive than usual in the caverns, losing myself for a moment there in the thrill of the kill. I am not certain but I think I was not the only one killing at that time. It is not easy to tell with her.

On that topic, so far so good.

Leoren had asked for my help in the Dragonslayer's Lair but I had already committed to Aphraelle. There will be other ventures I am sure. If the Cross is to flourish these new bearers in training need to be nurtured as much as we walk our own more difficult paths. That is my thought in any case. A cause with no sustainment is grounded before it takes wing.

Wotan was pleased to come out to play for the night. I need to get him out of the stables more often as I think he is putting on some weight. Still, there was all the vigor of his old self on display as he chewed through troggs and dwarves with gusto.

Of course that meant he was in dire need of a bath later.

[Skafloc]

I cannot fathom what makes the trolls of Zul Aman so untouchable as to be such a source of contention among those trolls of the Cross. Do we all not have cousins, siblings, distant kin among those factions that have gone against the Horde, who have thrown in their lot with the forces that would see us destroyed?

If we were all to stay our hand against them this world would have surely fallen long ago. They have no qualms fighting against those Loyalist elves in Netherstorm and elsewhere. They surely fought fel orcs and Grimtotem, those last being not so far removed from the Tauren people at all from what I can determine. Yet mention the threat of Zul'Jin and the Amani within that city and all fel breaks loose.

Fine. We will go without them if they cannot bring themselves to see with their own eyes. I am disappointed, I expected more courage and outrage from our trolls at what those followers of the insane Zul'Jin are doing to their own people. Doing to Taknar, one of our own order.

We will go to cleanse the city and interrupt their madness.

Mother, Father. You both died at the hands of the Amani during the wars. It seems I am to return once more to that city and finish the work you started long ago. Troll sensibilities be damned.

[Skafloc]

I suppose there are better ways of making friends than competing against them in the arena. At least she held no grudge at having so many of my arrows sticking out of her frosty armor. Not that she would, as overall they did remarkably well I must admit. But then, we are less than prepared in truth for that venture being freshly formed and without dedicated healing.

Perhaps we should have killed the rogue Emmons first, they seemed to have been welcoming of that idea.

I did not notice before but she glows. Not metaphorically, but she actually has a luminescence about her. It is startling.

Running into Villayna was unexpected and yet for some reason I felt that it was something that was quite normal, even anticipated. I showed her the key. I cannot be certain but I think she knows more about it than she let on.

"When the time is right" he told me. So it seems I must wait for this unknown time to arrive before I learn more.

Hope and despair, two sides of the same coin? Perhaps it is true. But when does the transition from one to the other take place? I have lived far too long in the shadow of either one or the other I think to make any clear distinction between them. One bleeds into the other depending on my frame of mind. That is my feeling on it in any case.

I think Saphiara also lives in this shadow, but I believe that she may be turning the coin for herself. Talking to her is similar to talking to a mirror at times such that any support I lend, words of encouragement are easily reversed onto me when I sit down and think about it. Now to see if I can take my own advice.

I cleaned up the bedroom today finally. Her nightgown that was left lying at the foot of the bed folded and returned to the dresser.

[Thrysta]

Perhaps we should have killed the rogue Emmons first, they seemed to have been welcoming of that idea.

((
/cackle
))

[Bir]

(( Skaffy you such a pimp! ))

[Saphiara]

(( Skaffy you such a pimp! ))

((Nuffin' happened! Nuffin'! At all!))

[Skafloc]

The simple truth is that Shattrath has become a crossroads of sorts. Not just in the comings and goings of people of all races and factions but in the way our lives intersect.

I have taken to sitting on the high ledge of the inner sanctum, watching the ebb and flow of those lives below hoping to catch a glimpse of her, listening for any snippet of conversation that might drift up to me containing some clue.

Over it all A'Dal floats in perpetual vigilance. A muted sentinel who has been the main guiding force in recent times of all that had transpired.

What are they really? I asked her the question, thinking perhaps she might have some insight that I lack. The Blood Knights have had arguably a closer communion with the Naaru than any other race, including the Draenei. Yes, the nature of that communion was questionable at first until the full scope of what was agreed upon was revealed but the fact remains it was there, a personal and direct link with one of their kind.

Unfortunately she could not shed much insight. It seems I understand less of the history and nature of their order than I assumed. Manipulation of the Light comes in many flavors it seems.

Are they masculine and feminine or do they transcend gender? If so, what do they really understand of us beings and our lives, our hopes, dreams, fears and sorrows? I have not thought on it specifically for some time, not since I first had contact made with A'Dal over a year ago but I have the distinct impression that she is feminine if anything, despite the fact pretty much everyone refers to it as “him”. She inspires others to action rather than actively imposing herself. She draws beings to her rather than seek them out. She leads through suggestion rather than lead by example. All are nurturing traits, feminine traits. Positive ones to be precise.

There was something peaceful about sitting there, supporting each other in our own personal heartaches. Different in nature yet similar in their results. It is certain to be misinterpreted by those who do not understand, but their opinions are the least thing on my mind.

In the end I think we are helping each other to care again.

[Skafloc]

I am a fool.

All this time I have been searching I never once considered to ask the one person that was as close to Evanthe in her own way as I was. Looking back it should have been the most logical person for me to approach considering the past, her past.

Yet the news she brought was in direct contradiction of what Ninorra told Saphiara. I never really bothered to think too much on what the red eyed warlock did at the wedding. Evanthe was fairly cryptic about it and truth be told I thought it was a metaphor, nothing more.

Our souls linked? Well, yes they were in any case to a degree through the runes. That link gone cold was my first indication something was wrong. But the news that she was alive because I was still alive? It was the greatest glimmer of hope I have had in weeks.

That is until I spoke to her..

Malorii.

Speaking to Malorii is like trying to draw water from a well with a sieve. You eventually get enough to slake your thirst but it is a test of endurance and patience. Most of the time the information you do get is nebulous and erratic. Snapshots of her own mind. It makes perfect sense to her but to those of us that live outside of her own personal reality her thoughts are like butterflies floating on the breeze.

Smell her? I smell her every time I walk into our bedroom. It is an echo yes but what Malorii smells and hears is more than that apparently. In a way she supported what Ninorra suggested. She is somewhere, just not here. But alive?

No.

That was the final picture that she painted with her fractured words and images. She is not here but there.

Where is "there"?

The place of the blue sun. Past the boiling rocks and the black sun.

Where is this place? Why did she leave?

You are not listening..it is her journey, not yours, not mine.

I am listening Malorii, but perhaps I just do not want to hear what you are suggesting.

She is dead. She is not here.. but there.

Will she come back from there?

Maybe.

Maybe. She is a warlock after all, one of the most powerful I have known in what she does. I have seen that death to them is not what it may mean to the rest of us.

But what does that leave me with? It leaves me with a "maybe."

Maybe is a difficult word.

The one truth in this, for Malorii despite her insanity has never lied to me, has always in the end proven correct once the meaning of her chaos sorts itself out, is that my wife is dead.

I do not know where to go from that.

[Villayna]

(( here ye, here ye, The Baron Ran'deau is officially a widower, come and get him, girls!

*giggles evily and props the doors open before running off into the sunset ))

[Ninorra]

((*palm face*))

[Skafloc]

Part of me wishes I just stayed at home and immersed myself in some book or whittled away on a nice piece of birchwood. The other part is thankful that I did eventually pick myself up and go to Mulgore, despite the shipwreck of emotions the evening drew forth.

I feel like some fly caught in a spider's web, trying to get away and move on but no matter what I do the strands just draw tighter.

It was difficult trying to enjoy myself when from almost the moment I set foot into that village I felt out of place, not to mention gently reminded as to the decision I had to make in order to remain safe. Nymare had an interesting offer to present. I couldn't see at the time what it would accomplish if anything but by the end of the evening I found that it may be worthwhile to let her try after all. It all depends on what Malorii wants to show me. If half of what the rogue hinted at is true there may yet be some hope. Still I dare not let myself believe, not yet. There are just too many unanswered questions, too many ways I can be broken yet again.

Saphiara. I know she didn't mean anything by the comment, but the timing was just all wrong. I could see the worry and hurt in her eyes when she came after me but she was the last person I wanted nearby at that moment. Guilt? Shame? No, I don't have room for that anymore I think. It just.. didn't feel right. Not when my mind was filled with Evanthe. Fel magics are what I needed the most that evening Saphiara. You could not know this.

One would think the quiet shore of a Mulgore lake would be just that, quiet and secluded. Apparently there is an unseen road running through. All I wanted was to be left alone for a time, but that was not to be.

Still, Zelaine proved to be just what I needed at the moment in as much a way as Saphiara was a danger. The fact it started to rain was not lost on me. Why did it have to rain?

It was somewhat reassuring to hear her tales, the similarity of them to my own being quite uncanny. I would have listened to more if it were not for the traffic on the hidden highway.

Malorii. The woman must listen to the wind to be so timely.

Message? How and from where? More mad rants or does she actually know something? She is dead, what more message can there be? Unless she isnt of course. But if not why tell me otherwise? The runes were cold, the link gone. Now she would suggest there might be a way? A way to what? communicate with the dead, or bring the dead back? I love my wife, but to bring her back from the dead is something that froze my heart. Coming from Malorii's lips that could mean any number of things, even raising her Forsaken or letting the Good Doctor practice his arts.

The web tightens. I almost allowed myself to move on but of course there is no option but to see this through.

Look into madness Malorii? I have been looking into it for some time now and have grown used to it. What harm would another glimpse into disappointment be other than a slight fall back into the hole I was cimbing out of? There is always another climb. If she is able to show me anything at all that might make sense I will take Nymare up on her offer.

Besides I am dying to continue our talk.


* a scattering of names adorns the bottom of the page, all with thin lines connecting them all in such a way to form a spider web. *

[Skafloc]

Insane.

That is the only word to explain this whole situation. It would seem that it applies also to the only ones that have the answers I seek.

Nymare's warnings are sound, I have no doubt. Of everyone I have spoken to she makes the most sense, though even she confused me at times. Not that it was a challenge, my mind was not completely focussed last night. What other explanation that I missed Saphiara hovering nearby until she was pointed out to me. She flew off before I could wave her down.

So Bir also has been talking to our little maiden of ashes. It must be so for him to have any cause to mention Evanthe. What his interest in this is unclear. In the end there is really only one certain path. To learn the truth and find my answers I would have to follow the direction of a madwoman. That in itself would probably classify me as partially insane as well.

It is not anything I haven't done before. But then that time I almost lost my own life to the insanity. For a time I actually did.

So it comes down to how sure I am in the words and councel of Malorii. The answer is not as easy as it appears to my thinking. Am I sure of her? Not in a heartbeat. But she has been proven correct more than a few times in the past even if the path taken to those truths were twisted and tumbled, strewn with shards of broken glass.

Well, If I must bleed a little to learn Evanthe's fate I will. She has done it for me many times.

If she is alive...........

It is my time to pull HER from the river.

[Skafloc]

Fel Iron Hooks
Dragon's Tears
Maiden's Anguish

That last is easy enough to get, if one knows who to ask. As for the others, the dragonkin in Contsellas do not seem to be forthcoming with them.

Why does she need those? Bir doesn't seem to have that answer.

Bir what have you gotten yourself into with the good doctor? I am sure I can manage to talk to Malorii on that matter, possibly help without resorting to what the Inquisitor feels is the right course. The danger here is if Anorah manages to antagonize those two she may ruin everything. I cannot allow that to happen, not when there is any chance that they are able to help me get Evanthe back. Perhaps if she heard to full tale of all this...

In the meantime I am left to try to find those items, the use of which is unknown. Knowing Malorii they could just as likely be for no real purpose other than her own interest as they could be for any ritual purpose. I won't know until I get them to her.

Then we shall see what we shall see. Or perhaps Listen is a better word.

Ninorra apologized for her actions. It really wasn't necessary as it was exactly what I needed to refocus on what is most important. Honor? You give me too much credit my lady.

Still, she made a good argument. There is a matter that needs to be faced, even if I am not certain myself where that will take me. A promise was made and it will be done.

Unless I miss my guess miss Aphraelle has an admirer. He seems competent enough for a Blood Knight, not too arrogant and seems to be thoughtful fighter, not prone to rash charges with little consideration. Whether she noticed it is another matter, she seemed rather distracted.

[Skafloc]

My mind is a jumble of thoughts and emotions such that I can barely make sense enough of them to put quill to paper.

Was it a dream? A drug enduced hallucination? Or was what I was seeing real? Knowing Malorii it could be any one. Once I discovered the purpose of the hooks, dragon's tears and Maiden's Anguish, I should have felt revulsion, apprehension or even ridicule, but considering the source it made perfect sense. This was not the first time she had me do some nightmarish act in order to gain insight. Where does she learn of these things?

Neither was it lost on me that in order to do this act, I needed at least two others to help. That was never mentioned, never explained to me. It was just luck that they both wanted to come along to help. As it turned out they were exactly what was needed to ensure the ritual went through. Saphiara's strength and Light helped heal the horrific wounds I had sustained, while Zelaine's innate instincts to leech off some of the intense pain through the runes, take it into herself made it easier for me to concentrate. Without that I probably would not have lasted as long as I did, seen as much as I saw.

Did Malorii anticipate this? Who's to say.

My decision to have Zelaine take over the runes from Nymare has already paid off. I doubt I could have persuaded Nymare to help in that ritual as easily as it was for Zelaine to accept. Although she never took advantage of the link, asking Nymare to help me in my search would have been awkward to the extreme. I was not sure it would work, but it was worth the attempt to see if the mage could control the runes. She can.. if barely. For what I need however it is enough.

Saphiara is holding out well. There is a definite tension however between those two. After what Zelaine confided in me later on in Shattrath I can now understand why. Women are definitely more attuned to these things then men I think. Her offer was unexpected. I admit I did not know how to respond and am sure I could have handled that better. I feel like a blundering thick headed lout to have not seen this earlier in them both. We really can be a gender without a clue at times.

Still, these two women are not children. I am not a child, and Anorah is not our mother. I can appreciate her concern but I do not need this blood knight, Arbiter or not, acting as if she is. If she wished to talk as a friend, a confidant that would have been more welcome. I will be polite and guard my tongue, but I do not need lessons in relationships from her. That is not her role. Just as it is not hers to tell me who I can or cannot speak with when it comes to finding my wife. She does not know half as much about Henri Fynne as I do. If First Legion have an issue with the Cross, let her concentrate on that. What Fynne wished to speak about with me has nothing to do with that matter.

Do I trust him? Of course not! Once bitten twice shy. But can I make use of him somehow? Possibly. If he can be a tool to be used then I will use him if it becomes necessary, Arbiter’s orders aside.

My chest still aches from the ritual. The wounds are gone but the shadow of pain lingers. I am sure I felt a collarbone snap under the strain at one point.

Crystals. Arranged like so many specimen jars. What does it mean? Was it a metaphor or is she indeed encased in some glassy tomb like an insect trapped in amber?

I listened and I heard. I was looking for you, coming for you.

The Manaforges, it has to be one of them. That or the Arcatraz itself. Either way I will have to look. Fel only knows what I will find.

[Skafloc]

It was a surreal situation.

I have been to such meetings before, but this one proved to be the most unlikely taking into account the current atmosphere between the Cross and the Legion, not to mention our own history.

I didn't call for it, did not ask him to present himself. But I can only believe that he was anticipating it. His presence in the Barrens at that exact time was uncanny. That in itself would be suspect, but the chain of coincidence did not stop there. No sooner did we depart from the more traveled paths to an out of the way mountain foothill when a member of the Cartel arrived, soon to be accompanied by two human women. From descriptions I have heard I gathered one was his beloved Jilliane. The other was a warlock from the look of her. Not Alyiane.

To continue the string of fortune I was able to get the services of the Cartel woman he had contacted a day ago, and Zelaine happened to be close at hand. She arrived in record time to help even out the imbalance. I wonder what they thought of having a Grim sitting so close by? If it put them on edge so much the better. I did not want them to be too comfortable. This was the Barrens after all, our land.

So there we were, sitting and staring at each other, Cartel translators alongside us both, his women scanning the terrain below for security while Zelaine sat and smiled ever so innocently, keeping them in her sight at all times. No doubt they half expected Raven Cross or Grim assaulters to arrive at any moment.

I still find myself wrestling with the motives for his offer. There is no love lost between us and he has no cause to see my wife restored. Still if he wished her dead why make the offer at all, unless it is only to ensure she falls later to his own blades to satisfy his own personal crusade.

Whatever the motives I must concede that with his uncanny skill at finding warlocks he is an asset in the field that I should not dismiss so quickly. With the information I provided it gives him a starting point.

Hopefully he is able to keep a low profile and the Cartel keep their discrete professionalism for Zelaine's sake and mine. Her's more significantly. I can deal with the Arbiter's mood but she stands to earn more than a simple verbal tirade.

I owe her much. She has put herself at risk over this with little reward to be gained.

[Skafloc]

Windows and doors. They both allow entry Malorii, you know that better than most. Does it matter which it was? The end result was the same.

I saw her. I saw the bird and yes I followed it. I have the feather to prove it.

If you wanted to be there you should have told me yourself, not leave it to Bir to pass on the instructions. He did all that was asked of him as far as I can tell and it worked. If there was more to know why wasn't I told?

The sudden silence from her stone was deafening. I will try again, but if that does not succeed I will forge on alone.

Perhaps I can convince Chauncey to speak with her. She seems to have a soft spot for him.

The heat in Stranglethorn Vale was swealtering, yet I slept more comfortably than I have in a long time. It is good, as I doubt I will sleep so well in the days to come as my search intensifies.

[Skafloc]

I cannot seem to think straight today...

It started with Chauncey bringing me my normal breakfast. There was nothing wrong with it, but it stuck in my throat like a glob of grease. I tossed the plate at him in disgust. I am a noble, I should be eating noble food not peasant slop!

Shouldn't I?

I should try to talk to Mal, see if I can't get her to open up to me. If I can't get to her I will speak with Bir. I trust Bir, he is dear to me.

He is?

Yes of course he his. I can feel it in my bones. He will listen.

I could talk to Zelaine. I find myself thinking about her all the time. She was in my dreams last night, we were walking together on a beach in Quel Thalas. Both of us holding hands with a little child who dangled gleefully between us, tiny feet brushing the surface of the fine sand with each sway back and forth....

*the rest of the page is splotched with tears*

It makes no sense. That should be Evanthe. That IS Evanthe, in the dreams I have always had. What is happening to me? My hands tremble even as I write this with the jumble of emotions I am feeling.

I need to do something, to keep busy. I am surrounded by people who care for me yet for some reason I feel more alone than ever before.

I think I will go take Ebony out for a walk. He is flying about outside my study window, thumping into the glass pane with every second pass. I do not know what has gotten into him but he has been like that for the past few hours.
It seems my pet shares my anxiety. Strange that Elmo or Wotan do not. I should do more research and study into pet behaviour.

Yes, research and study....

[Skafloc]

With just three words she was able to make my heart stop.

I was shocked to my core, but now that I have had time to think on it I really shouldn't be. That is they way my life works. It would be easier if I just accept it.

My fear is almost palpable yet there is a part of me that is thrilled beyond words. I do not understand it whatsoever. This should NOT be! What we did should not have happened, yet it felt so right to do so. My worry is that it still does, even though my mind knows how wrong it is.

She wants to raise it alone and in secret? That idea will never take wing. Not when both Nymare and Qabian know the truth. It would be a yoke over my shoulders to be exploited at a time of their choosing.

No, this is something that will have to be disclosed in its entirety.

But not now. Not yet. One step at a time.

First, Saphiara. She needs to get help. We need to learn all that she has discovered to plan for the rescue.

Second, make the plan and execute it. Bir has some ideas that are worth exploring.

Third, bring my wife home. What has happened to her in captivity I cannot imagine, the very thought makes my stomach twist in knots. Yet bring her some I shall. I pray to whatever gods care to listen that she is whole and unharmed, but I prepare for the worst.

The matter of Zelaine can wait until after that is done and there is a chance to think. I find myself wishing I could make a bubble in time, perhaps go back and change what happened, or move forward and have our child born. It would make decisions so much easier.

[Skafloc]

Focus. It seems that is what everyone is telling me these days.

Easier said than done when everything seems to be unravelling around me.

Saphiara is getting better, that is a positive. Although she was rambling on about things that made little sense. Mana bombs? Mana Haten? It was difficult to hear much less concentrate with Malorii and Bir coming at me from all angles. Do not think for a moment Malorii that I do not care. You should know me better than that, after all we have been through together. I will rescue her Malorii. Never doubt that, and you shall be there with me.

Amberlight. Who does he think he is? What right did he have to attack her? I know the Mandate, Lascivious and I spent many an hour talking about it. Is the Grim leadership above their own laws, or should they be the example to uphold? We shall see which one it is. Regardless, this will not go unanswered. Whatever the circumstances.. that is also MY child, not just Zelaine's. He will not be making the decisions of life or death over it. At the very least it would appear he failed in his attempt.

* the text becomes crude and sloppy *

Oh yes, there will be an answer in time. Talk to Malorii? Of course I did. You do not seem to understand to what degree she and I are entwined.

So.. tired. I need to try to sleep...

My stomach feels like it is on fire..

[Skafloc]

So at the very least I have survived an encounter with Malorii with my parts still in place.

I suppose it can be understandable to everyone not intimately familiar with what happened to assume the worst. Even those knowledgeable about runes, even mine in particular seem to think there was some control happening and either blame me for not fighting it enough or blame her for using them to her own ends or some measure of both.

The truth is I think this was the exact opposite of control. In essence I wanted it. Looking back on it now it is plain that I wanted it to happen, just as she wanted it to happen and that feeling is what was being migrated and enhanced between us both. There was nothing to "control" as to my mind at that time what was happening felt completely natural. Wrong certainly but natural nonetheless. That is what makes it so painful to reflect on. If it was something I could control, I would have. It seems she is content to take on the blame for herself. It is not right and I let her know that.

We could not have predicted this would happen, nor were we in position to recognize it until well after it was too late. Now there is nothing we can do but live with the legacy and move forward hopefully.

Evanthe reacted to the news as I would have expected her to. It is a testament to my wife's seemingly inexhaustible patience that she appears to at least have the will to work through this with me. Perhaps with time forgiveness will come. She is home now and that is a new foundation to build on. I just pray that her headaches fade as she insists they will. I can feel the wave fatigue that seems to come with each usage of her power, just as I felt it as soon as she re-established her control over the runes two nights ago.

I can't help but worry that something is being overlooked, something terribly wrong. Saphiara mentioned that damnable project again. A mana-bomb? Just the sound of it is distrubing in the extreme. I pray she is correct that the experiment was never completed.

Of course in the midst of all of this I have lost another family member. Izrail's disappearance has many worried. Just the way he was suddenly torn from the rune control made me think that the same ones who took Evanthe had struck again, yet from what Visant and the rest have been able to determine that does not appear to be likely.

Red haired rogue women. I am suddenly seeing them everywhere I go. Hopefully Malorii will honor her word to Evanthe if not to me and manage to find some news on this mysterious footpad that may or may not have any clues as to Izrail's whereabouts.

[Evanthe]

The truth is I think this was the exact opposite of control. In essence I wanted it. Looking back on it now it is plain that I wanted it to happen, just as she wanted it to happen and that feeling is what was being migrated and enhanced between us both.

.....

It is a testament to my wife's seemingly inexhaustible patience that she appears to at least have the will to work through this with me.

[It's a testament to Skafloc's ability to lie through his teeth and claim it was the runes that made him do it... Luckily Evanthe doesn't know he keeps a journal. ;)]

[Ninorra]

[It's a testament to Skafloc's ability to lie through his teeth...]

((*channels Nihna's rage* It's because he's a MAAAAN!!))

[Evanthe]

((*channels Nihna's rage* It's because he's a MAAAAN!!))

[Are ALL men such scumbags? /becomes a lesbian]

[Errigal]

(( If they're not scumbags they're evil, undead, gay, or married! .... ))

[Skafloc]

(( If they're not scumbags they're evil, undead, gay, or married! .... ))

[ Or simply misunderstood]

[Ninorra]

[Are ALL men such scumbags? /becomes a lesbian]

((First Saphiara.. then Evanthe.. this is shaping up to be a pretty good lesbian orgy.

PS Skafloc isn't invited.))

[Aphraelle]

Aphraelle really doesn't roll that way, but is having the occasional thought of how bad could it be? after recent events. ... She'd probably be one of those annoying not-really-gay-just-took-too-many-Women's-Studies-classes kind of lesbians, though...

[Fynne]

(Whoa whoa whoa, don't be so negative. You're ruining the picture I've got going on here!)

[Thrysta]

(You're ruining the picture I've got going on here!)

((
Barbara Bush.
Margaret Thatcher.
Naked.
On a cold day.
With your grandma.
))

[Fynne]

(Well I'm beginning to see why Skafloc gets his warlock-pr0nz somewhere else!)

[Skafloc]

{{ Get out of my journal! *shakes fist* }}

[Skafloc]

That something is wrong has been apparent. I am happy that she finally admitted that more than simple recuperation was to blame for her episodes. I suspect that others have noticed something as well, why else would Sabachthan show enough interest to actually offer his help? It is not as if there is much love between them.

Janith has agreed to hear more and perhaps she can be persuaded to perform a thorough examination. Evanthe appears to be more accepting of that idea. I hesitate involving the Heir unless there is absolutely no recourse. The track record there is well established and not all that encouraging.

No word on Izrail as of yet, however it is suspicious that the home of the one warlock that seemed the most likely suspect perished in a mysterious fire. It definitely bears further investigation. No word also on this red haired rogue that has been shadowing him for some time. I can see the worry etched on Visant's face. I know that look intimately. Do not worry my friend, we will find him.

The Shen'dorei seemed content to allow us to browse the library to our content. I imagine it must have to do with the difficulties in reaching their reclusive cabal and proving our worth. In any event the tomes we recovered from their vaults have not provided anything concrete as of yet, but it is still early. Eva has only had the chance to briefly skim through one. The others might hold more clues to what we seek.

On that matter a chance meeting in Shattrath sparked an idea as to where we may find more insight. The language barrier will prove a challenge, but this may be an opportunity for me to dust the rust off my common tongue.

After all, the bitch must have learned her talents with the runes somewhere.

[Skafloc]

The seas are a little more rough this first day than the last time we headed south but the warmer weather makes up for it. With a brisk wind we are making good time.

The crew are made up of volunteers from among the seasonal workers Chauncey hires for the harvest. All come from sea faring families, either traders or fisher folk. They have been more than competent and go out of their way to give Evanthe and I space and privacy. Of course it isnt as private as it was months ago when we sailed this route on our honeymoon, what with a demon crew that were easily dismissed when not needed. It would have been ideal if that plan could be repeated but with Evanthe's present condition that is not an option.

I have been watching her closely for any indication that she is uncomfortable or ill. So far she has not shown any indication of either, but for all I know she is hiding it from me. There has been no need for her to use any of her power which all evidence indicates is the source of her attacks. With luck the letter I sent to Xaraphyne will be enough to have word sent out though her contacts to prevent at least some pirate attacks should we be intercepted again. It will depend on what flag they fly and what allegiances they hold. If I can avoid having Evanthe touch her power this trip so much the better.

Should the need arise however I have left instructions with Chauncey on whom to contact in an emergency. Janith did not have time for the examination before we left, but hopefully she can be reached in time if the need is great and urgent. Barring that, my last resort would be the Lord Ghant. Evanthe would protest I have no doubt, but I expect that if I did indeed feel the need to contact him it would be a situation where Evanthe would be in no shape to protest anything.

I pray it will not become necessary.

With the wind at our back we are making good time through the north eastern seas. Just to the south we can see the coastline of Tirisfal passing by, the dark hills rising up from the horizon.

I forgot how liberating it is at sea. With just the two of us, excluding the crew, we have so much time to just enjoy each other. No distractions, no stones humming, no rumors or gossip to endure, no unexpected visitors at awkward times.

I have brought the books we borrowed from the Shen'dorei library just in case, but at the moment they remain below in our cabin stored away. No need to bring them out for study yet. No need to spoil the atmosphere.

At this pace I expect we will arrive at our little secluded island in about four days. That will afford us some real time alone together, as I plan on starting work on a beach hut. I have brought some construction tools along this time. There appears to be no claimant to the island other than a small murloc village to the far south in an isolated cove. This time I will explore it more thoroughly and map out the terrain if possible.

It would make a perfect loction for a vacation home.

[Skafloc]

Her condition is worsening by the day. She is putting on a brave face, but I can see through her masquerade and sense the pain she is under, both the physical and emotional.

It is no easy task for me either to live with the knowledge that I am contributing to that with her efforts at maintaining the bond. It is becoming an tenuous hold at best, I can feel it. The tomes have provided some possible avenues of research but nothing distinct, no clear path that jumps off the pages on where to proceed next.

Hopefully the letter I sent will be received in the spirit it is intended and we can have that talk. It is all I can think of at the moment.

In the interim we will most likely meet with Diomades soon to conduct that dream walk he suggested. Perhaps more insight will be garnered as to the nature of her illness. I have to admit, his theories hold much weight.

Niethan. Just what the troll did is unclear but that he did something is all too apparent. Others have seen it. Try as I might I cannot recall anything from any of the episodes, but thankfully there were witnesses to them all. The implications are hard to believe. Farsight? Precognition? That remains to be seen. The troll has been conspicuously absent since the meeting, as if avoiding me. He cannot hide forever and I will have my explanation one way or another.

Unfortunately that may come sooner rather with the commencement of Visant’s planned operation. Thankfully Evanthe will not have to take part in that first phase. It would not do for her to be incapacitated with pain in the middle of the assault.

Her role comes after. That is when I will be watching her like a hawk. At the first sign of trouble it ends, I will see to that. Another would have to make the attempt.

[Skafloc]

So far it seems to be working. I purposely didn’t say anything at first because I wanted to see if she noticed a difference. Indeed, she mentioned that for the first time in a while the edge was taken off her persistent headache. I told her everything at that point.

A simple solution it appears to be, albeit temporary. I wonder how it works. What property does the dust possess to block the influence? Is it something inherent in its makeup? Something that perhaps can be isolated and manipulated somehow into something more tangible, usable and permanent? A vaccine perhaps.

Is it simply the density of the dust itself? The fact that it is temporary is curious. It could be due to whatever properties it holds dissipating over time as it does its work. Or is it simply a matter of the dust wearing off the skin as the day progresses?

Fynne may know which it is, but if he does he was being coy about it when I asked. Perhaps he may be more open to sharing what he knows if indeed Evanthe holds something he requires.

On another topic; It is what I do?

No, it is what you choose to do I am thinking. In the end it is all up to the choices we make. Some work out, others end disastrously. Runes, dust, personal pain, failing a love one, addictions and vices. All results of choices gone bad.

How we deal with them is the standard by which we are judged.

I can understand why some might make disasterous choices. Gods know I have made my share in my life. The loss of a parent can be hard to bear, I know this personally. That may have had something to do with it.

Still, bloodthistle is a harsh choice. I don't think I have ever seen her looking more worn out and ugly.

[Skafloc]

When an irresistible force meets an immovable object.

That is what it felt like last night. I am not speaking of the ill fated assault on Stormwind Keep, THAT was hardly an irresistible force. In theory we should have been able to progress farther than the few paltry steps we managed to take out of the gallery we were mustered in.

In reality however that proved impossible with the level of force that was gathered in the courtyard to repel our advance. They were well equipped, organized and prepared! Understandable if the rumors that they had forewarning are to be believed and from what I saw that is an easy thing to do.

The finger pointing and speculation commenced as soon as the rumor reached our ears. I overheard one voice mention that there were others present from other clans and guilds besides The Grim, as if to imply that would be the most logical place to begin an inquiry.

Really? It would seem to me that The Grim leadership is not all that aware of what some of its members do in their spare time, or who they meet with. No, they would do well to not overlook their own backyard when hunting moles.

But I digress. What I am speaking of is Lord Ghant and my lady wife. “All she needs to do is ask”, he says. That is precisely what she was trying to do Sabachthan. You drifted off in thought at the wrong moment I am afraid. With Evanthe that is tantamount to an end of discussion.

She let her façade down slightly after that encounter. I saw for a brief moment how truly worried she is. This is something I have known for some time, but she goes to great pains to hide it as best she can. Last night was extraordinary in that for her to lose her composure tells me that this is getting to her.

Of course, as is the norm when this sort of private moment occurs we never seem to be alone for long.

[Skafloc]

It was one of those memories that speak to events in everyone's life that are for a moment tragic and cause for discussion, but are soon replaced by the day to day thoughts of work and family.

He was a sub manager of the deStrazsa Estate. A vintner of some skill with a loving wife and two daughters as I recall. He loved his job but working for the deStrazsa was trying at the best of times. They demanded perfection in all things to a degree that was ludicrous at times.

The stress of his work led him to the bottle. It was a simple glass of wine at night to relieve the stress at first, however in time that graduated to an almost steady intake. The euphoria and release the alcohol gave him helped to deal with the demands of his life. Of course that was an illusion. In reality his work and family were suffering. After much work and intervention he was able to put aside the bottle and lived clean and sober for almost a year.

He missed the feeling of intoxication and the release from his stress it provided, yet he persevered.

The one day at the wedding of a fellow vintner someone offered him a glass of strong port. He resisted at first but after much coaxing decided that a single glass would not hurt. It went directly to his head and in that one glass he was almost completely intoxicated. One glass turned into two, then four. Soon he was so drunk that they had to carry his prone body into the wagons to take him home. However when his wife came to the wagons to depart she found him gone. Later it was learned that several bottles of Old Port were also missing from the tables.

Two days later they found his body lying face down in an irrigation ditch. Officially it was determined that he had drowned, but an examination revealed that he would have perished in any event from alcohol poisoning.

I am so glad she had not asked me directly what was on my mind. That is one truth that she would have not liked to hear. She may not see it, nay I KNOW she does not see it but the situation is so very similar. The feeling of euphoria a lure so strong that reason is set aside.

I can well understand the why. I am not so skilled and experience in channeling such quantities of magic. I have not felt that rush that magisters and warlocks speak of when they are fully in contact with the energies they tap. I can readily see however that it must be an intoxicating feeling. I also see easily enough what being cut off suddenly from that feeling can do.

The sensation was exquisite for me. The proof of the power of the place evident from what it did to me. I can only imagine what it must feel like for her. So alluring that she would throw aside all reason to seek it out again and become a lost transient in some bubble in time.

That is something I will not let happen, even if I need to physically tie her down or lock her in a room. That place is perfect as she says. A perfect trap.

Let us hope Diomades has some insight. Keeping her distracted with working on the real problem may help until the memory of the place fades.

I could kill that Blood Knight. What was he thinking?

[NotMaithanet]

((You wanna throw down Skafloc! LETS GO!))

[Skafloc]

She is growing impatient I can tell. Understandable really. As she said, there is not shortage of people with theories and possible diagnoses but as yet no real action. At least not since that one venture to the Well.

That trip did at least offer some insight to me. The fact that it had no effect on her other than the euphoria the waters imparted tells me that Diomades may indeed be on the correct path. Her problem is probably not magical in nature. It is either physical, spiritual or mental. Perhaps a combination of all?

For myself it is a case of so far, so good. There but remains the slightest tint of skin where they once were, a shadow of their former brilliance. Whether that means they have been pushed so far into dormancy as to be unreachable or have indeed been leeched of all their magical properties only time will tell. I did a bit of research and have concluded it was not the waters that did this but the Tree itself. Did the waters play a part, making them more active for the Tree to sense their fel properties and react in defense? Did the bone dust play a role?

I wonder if any of the others have tried this?

It would seem Evanthe and Sabachthan have some to a detente. That is encouraging, but I will still remain vigilant of that situation. An offer to help from a Ghant usually carries some price. That he has asked for none is somewhat surprising and out of line with his history. In truth I half expected her to tell me he wanted her body after death as payment.

Perhaps his generosity is fueled by the joy he may be feeling at a past debt of that nature appearing to be coming to fruition.

She rode past us hurriedly the other day in the city. I swear she looks more like a forsaken each time we see her, worn and wan. The Ghant is probably rubbing his hands in anticipation.

[Sabachthan]

[[ *temples his hands together* Yes, yes... all goes according to plan... muahahahahahahaa ]]

[Skafloc]

Blood. It seems to be in high demand of late.

Perhaps I should set up a clinic.

I have been elevated to the rank of Arbiter for the Raven Cross. I did not seek this appointment, nor was it ever in my plans. However having been offered the position I could see where it may be an opportunity to make some real difference.

Of course I will have by hands full right at the outset with the matter of Aphraelle and the incident with the Warmaven. I met with Diomades and gave him the account as I understood it. Needless to say it was disturbing.

Then there is that matter of House Blackstone. Possibilities lie there.

Patience. That is what I must exercise right now on a great many things.

Even the strongest armor can be breached give time. I only pray that time is indeed my ally and not my enemy.

[Skafloc]

It was not how I would have wanted it to play out, but in the end I think the point was delivered.

From here on in my role will be to monitor the situation and be vigilant to any sign of a repetition or reprisal. My personal feeling is that Evanthe is correct; it went too easy on him. In the end it was word against word and the only evidence being the actual wound and her distressed state. That was enough for the Patriarch to issue the warning but to my mind does little to put Aphraelle's mind at ease.

Diomades said he would speak to her. Hopefully it will be enough to restore her trust in the leadership. If not, I fear that this is not over despite our words to the contrary. All it takes is a little rogue seed of this nature to germinate and spread like a bed of weeds if left unchecked.

The parallels of this case are not lost on me.

I finally managed to introduce Evanthe to Mr. Shadowspeak. As I had hoped they appeared to have some meaningful dialogue. In the absence of Sabachthan Ghant he is perhaps the best suited and qualified to help her at the moment. Anything to help restore that confidence and self assuredness I miss so dearly.

At least she has been painting again. Her studio is littered with sketches and paintings in various states of development. For the most part they are all of birds, large swept wing avians of they type the druids are wont to change into.

I have no doubt from where the inspiration derives. The man has a presence I must admit. The way his sharp gaze seems to penetrate right through my body and soul. Although I sense no ill intent it is somewhat unnerving.

Perhaps it was that which triggered my episode. Fel knows what I said, but it seemed to strike some chord.

[Skafloc]

I really don't know what to write. I probably shouldn't even attempt this yet but I need to do something while I sit here and wait in agony.

Still no sign of her. The eastern sky is starting to brighten. A few more hours and sun will rise and I will know my answer, such as it is.

Why?

Why if she was so worried about hurting me further did she choose the one path that would be certain to hurt me the most? Does she think that knowing she is with another, catching a glimpse of them in the square or in Shattrath, seeing them together from afar would be easy on me? That I would prefer that to being at her side and helping her through her troubles? With each kiss he would place on her lips my own will burn as if drenched in acid. With each thrust he would put in her should they bed, if they indeed have not already, it would be as a dagger tearing into my heart.

A blood knight of course. Once more I am being spared from further harm by the one person that I have dedicated my life to. The one person with whom I have pledged to take on her troubles as my own. I can handle your pain Evanthe. That is what I vowed to do, what my love for you is capable of. Why can't you see that? You were there for me when I needed you. You did not turn me out or turn away. Why now do you ask this of me? Why do you turn from the one person that loves you the most?

Her last words, spoken without emotion. I don't believe that for a second. I cannot believe it. Not after everything we have been through. Not after this past year together.

Do not think that I will let you go that easily Evanthe. Not without a monumental fight. There will be no journey to the Council to obtain a fast annulment. There will be no packing of your belongings and arrangements for delivery.

I will have your side of the bed turned down and ready for you each night. Your clothes laid out just as you like them ready for you when you rise in the morning. Your place at breakfast will be set each and every day as it always has been.

Not important is he? A silly man you called him. A diversion. Do I really mean so little to you that a silly diversion of an old man is enough to throw away our life together?

I cannot believe it.

I will not believe it.

[Ninorra]

((OMGWTFBBQ?!?!?!))

[Villayna]

(( can I kill her? Not in a vengence for my friend way, but just in a "hah..your husband won't come after me now!" way? ))

[Chikt]

((Is Dio going to have to slap some sense into Evanthe? Because he'll do it.))

[Evanthe]

((Is Dio going to have to slap some sense into Evanthe? Because he'll do it.))

[Yes.]

[Kethryvaris]

[wait. who'd she sleep with? I'm SO LOST.]

[RavenReverend]

((Awwww Skaffy actually cares X3 *squee* I hope Evanthe is gonna be okay D: ))

[Fynne]

(You're looking at this all wrong, Skaffy! This is the best thing that could possibly happen to you! The warlock's taken her hooks out. Quick, run away! Get out while you can, while she's not interested in you anymore!

:P)

[Skafloc]

(The warlock's taken her hooks out. Quick, run away! Get out while you can, while she's not interested in you anymore!:P)

[[ But.. I like her hooks in me. ]]

[Malethia]

((Hammer of Justice, Freezing Trap.

Saphi's now...))

[Bir]

(( NOOO MY GIRLFRIEND!!11 ))

[Sabachthan]

[[ <.< >.> I honestly had nothing to do with this. ]]

[Skafloc]

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y266/toxctii/wine-1.jpg

[Izrail]

((I want to go on the record as gnashing my teeth over Izrail not being present for any of this.))

[Ninorra]

((Someone call for a marriage councellor?))

[Skafloc]

She finally answered my calls.

I could not stand the hollow emptiness of the house anymore, I had to find her. Most of the day I rode aimlessly about our most frequent haunts looking for her, listening for any word. I found some, Shapiara had seen her the previous night. She was drunk.

It was fitting that her state matched mine. More proof to my mind that we are inexorably linked.

Shaphiara was told to watch over me? Evanthe gave me to her? Not going to happen. She is not what I want, not what I need. I need my wife.

I need someone better Evanthe? There is no one better for me.

What can it be that is so horrible to her mind about herself that she feels I must be spared? There is nothing. Nothing that compares to the hurt of what she is doing to me now. Of what she is doing to both of us. That she too is hurting is plain. If she truly wished this upon ourselves, if she truly did not love me anymore she would be cold, uncaring, a creature of ice and stone. Not this tormented and anguished Evanthe that I heard over the stone.

I needed not her words to know that what she is doing in her mind she feels is sparing me. Even so she came right out and said it.

I need to see her. I need to hold her in my arms as I love to do and tell her it will be alright, that this too we will overcome, just as we have many things over the past year. I need to convince her that together we are stronger than the sum of our parts. Together we are a couple, a family. Together there is no pain or hurt so strong that we cannot help each other.

I need to tell her that there is nothing that is so terrible that all our life together should be thrown out as if it meant nothing. If she wishes to run from everything then let me run with her. Even if it means leaving this place forever. If she is with me then it will be as it is meant to be.

She is staying with Broxigan apparently. That warms my heart. Her Kiki is a good and kind friend. Perhaps after a restful sleep there we can talk.

[Anthek]

((Is Dio going to have to slap some sense into Evanthe? Because he'll do it.))

((Wha?! When Dio did the same thing? Both of you need to be slapped.))

[RavenReverend]

(( ; ) Maybe they should get some hawt, Dio on Eva action! EEEEEEVIL Tauren-belf babies >:D Bwahahahahha! --Oh and Skaffy ;_; iz' so saaaaad! You needs elf hugz!))

[Kyrion]

((WARLOCKS WILL DO THAT TO YOU SKAFLOC RESIST THE SUCCI!!!!!!!!))

[Aphraelle]

(( Dio has other plans. >.> :D))

[Skafloc]

I slept for the first time in days. For the first time since she left.

Perhaps it was the tauren's calming voice, or maybe he placed some manner of spell on me. Regardless, I awoke early this morning and shaved.

His words although difficult to hear had that ring of wisdom to them that I cannot ignore.

It is so hard when every instinct inside tells me I should be sweeping her off her feet and bringing her home where she is loved and adored. But if what the tauren says is true that would be the absolute worst thing at this moment. I can see that she needs to learn to love herself again before she can learn to love me again.

I will be here. I will always be here.

I just pray she is given that time. We deserve that chance.

[Malethia]

But if what the tauren says is true that would be the absolute worst thing at this moment. I can see that she needs to learn to love herself again before she can learn to love me again.

((Gee, where have I heard that before...oh yeah, SAPH TOLD HIM THAT LIKE TWENTY TIMES.))

[Skafloc]

That was perhaps the hardest thing I have ever had to do, to stay calm and respectful of her space like that when inside my every instinct was to sweep her up off her feet and smother in fierce kisses.

She looked so beautiful, the evening light cascading over her raven locks in waves of soft blue. Her skin glowing alabaster.

I was at a total loss of what to say. What does one say to a beloved who needs to be left alone and not pressured into returning, even though inside that is all you can think about?

I fear I fumbled. I can't believe I told her about that damn wolf.

How long do I remain at arms length like this? How will I know if it is too much and she misunderstands my action as not caring?

[Skafloc]

(( There are several lines written at the top, all scribbled out to be illegible. Eventually a delicate script flows on the page. ))

A wolf sat down on a rock one day;
A brief respite from a bout of play.
With a sudden flurry of wing and claw
A raven set down beside his paw.

In the verdant woods of Feralas.

The wolf was enamored of the bird,
So smitten he was he could utter no word.
Her ebony feathers dark, her eyes so bright,
Reflecting the stars of the warm summers night.

In the moonlit woods of Feralas

“Come hunt with me, stay by my side,”
He asked the raven, his green eyes so wide.
The raven preened her feathers and cocked her head.
She smiled at the wolf, “Mmhmmm” all she said.

In the love filled woods of Feralas.

Long weeks they spent together in play,
Sweet nights they enjoyed at the end of the day.
Wolf and raven together a pair,
Never was there a bond so fair.

In the storied woods of Feralas.

One day Wolf dashed into a cave,
Raven followed her mate; she was so brave.
When wolf emerged he sought for his love,
But there was no Raven swooping down from above.

In the dangerous woods of Feralas.

Long he sought her in places far and near,
He found her lying in pain and fear.
With broken wing she could not fly.
Wolf cried in sorrow for it seemed she might die.

In the tragic woods of Feralas.

Long days and nights he tended her wing,
He fed her, held her, sweet songs he would sing.
Yet though her wing did mend from his care,
No joy returned to the heart of Raven fair.

In the sad woods of Feralas.

“Why do you weep my love my mate?”
Asked Wolf one day, but it was too late.
For Raven had seen that which Wolf had not.
She loved him dearly, but a bird he was not.

In the quiet woods of Feralas.

“I cannot go where you do my Love.”
“I need to soar high with the Hawk and the Dove.”
“Should I run with you through bush and wood,”
“I fear my wings shall break for good.”

In the weeping woods of Feralas.

Wolf cried for a time but nodded his head,
He loved her so much, he would not see her dead.
“Then go my love, fly unto the sky.”
“But listen at night, you will hear my cry.”

Of love everlasting.

In the bittersweet woods of Feralas.

Raven took flight and soared to the sky,
An eagle circled the airs up high.
She joined the Eagle and together they flew,
Wolf watched them vanish into the sky so blue.

Over the green trees of Feralas.

A wolf sits down on a rock by day;
A brief respite from a bout of play.
At night he sings to the moon filled night,
A mournful call, to a Raven in flight.

In the verdant woods of Feralas.

[Sabachthan]

[[ BRAVISSIMO! ]]

[Aphraelle]

((OMG *sniffle* That's just beautiful!))

[Pearlle]

((amazing...*sighs dreamily*))

[Villayna]

(( that was one of the best things you've ever written, and you know how much I <3 all of your work :) ))

[RavenReverend]

((Wow Skaf that was awesome : ( It's so sad and so pretty! As it was said earlier "Bravissimo!" ))

[Kethryvaris]

[[wonderful poem...]]

[Skafloc]

There is so much I wish to write but I find I still cannot make sense of my thoughts and feelings.

Imalar helps. Speaking to the druid is calming to say the least.

Still the matter that brought us together the last talk we had leaves a cold shadow of foreboding across my heart.

Sabachthan Ghant, what are you up to?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

New officers for the cross. Akulazeel and Yatokth. Excellent choices. As fingers of a hand we shall make a strong fist.

[Skafloc]

The harvest is progressing well.

I have been taking a much more of a personal interest in it this year, the work keeping my mind occupied with something tangible and helping to work off some of the stress.

The nights however are the worst. When all is quiet and tranquil, when there is no sound in the house other than the chatter of the birds in the garden. It is lifeless, dark and cold. I am beginning to hate this place.

Too many memories.

There has been no word from the Council as to the status of the papers. I do not know what to read into that so I am reading nothing. They are nothing but papers in any case. Meaningless scribbles on parchment that will decay in time.

I look around and see that everything decays eventually. Friendships. Kinship.

Love?

I wish it were so, for if it could die in me it would not hurt so. Perhaps someday when the scar tissue has built up enough I will be able to ignore it.

Her perfume fills the room still.

[Skafloc]

Well for better or worse the offer was presented and accepted in theory. Of course there will be the necessary legal documents to sign before it becomes official. I will have to make sure the wording is just right so that no loophole is there for her to exploit.

Not that I suspect her of taking advantage but this is Villayna and if she can find some benefit to herself I have no doubt she will leap at the opportunity.

Dual signing authority is the way to go here I think. Chauncey will need to be given his share of the control.

The fellow looked pale when I told him what was coming. Not that I think he is not up to the task. He managed the estate by himself for far too long to be daunted by this task. The DeFafnyrs were hardly hands on managers. I suspect it is the prospect of working with Villayna DeSinisca that has him a bit on edge. It has me wondering what Master Dentley told him in confidence over the years.

The time is coming soon. Only a few last things to put in order and I will take to the field, not the least of which is my letter of absence to High Lord Faolian. My seat should go to another at least for the duration of my sabbatical.

This may be the final entry in this particular volume unless I decide to pack it with me. Probably a good idea, I will need something to record my notes from the field.

Forwarding address. I will have to make arrangements for that as well otherwise the invitation from Ninorra will not reach me.

I accepted her offer but truth be told I have misgivings of this dinner. After she ran into me last night and our surprisingly frank talk I am not certain how I feel about this Vicailde. I cannot deny that when she spoke of their relationship a wave of something came over me. What it was exactly I cannot yet say with certainty but it carried with it the aftertaste of familiarity.

Four hundred years is a long time to pine for a lost love. That she endures it is surprising.

[Skafloc]

Things to do:

- Close the loop with Villayna.

- Leave my explicit instructions with Chauncey and provide him means of getting in touch with me if needed.

- Speak with Diomades and Yatokth. I am sure she was being coy on purpose, a little game most likely but it would not hurt to make sure there is nothing hanging over the Cross' head that we are not aware of. Yatokth would be the most plausible one to send as an emmisary to Infection if needed.

- Follow up with Him, if he will still see me. There are many questions regarding the blues that he may be able to answer, if it is in his capability or desire to.

- Send the box to Evanthe. She has not asked for it as yet but I am sure she will at some point. They are hers after all and I know how she loves her dresses. No, scratch that. I won't have it sent. I will hand deliver it. There are things I need to tell her in any case. Things I need to know.

- Finally, find out what in Azeroth a Mofrah is.

[The_Golden_Wolf]

((Gods you are awesome! That poem certainly struck a chord, a similarity with my character. Except Carmen would be the wolf in the story. Again beautiful!))

[Skafloc]

Things to do:

- Close the loop with Villayna. PENDING...

- Leave my explicit instructions with Chauncey and provide him means of getting in touch with me if needed. DONE

- Speak with Diomades and Yatokth. I am sure she was being coy on purpose, a little game most likely but it would not hurt to make sure there is nothing hanging over the Cross' head that we are not aware of. Yatokth would be the most plausible one to send as an emissary to Infection if needed. DONE
The plan is sound.


- Follow up with Him, if he will still see me. There are many questions regarding the blues that he may be able to answer, if it is in his capability or desire to. DONE
I was surprised at his frankness, but then again he and his stand to gain.

- Send the box to Evanthe. She has not asked for it as yet but I am sure she will at some point. They are hers after all and I know how she loves her dresses. No, scratch that. I won't have it sent. I will hand deliver it. There are things I need to tell her in any case. Things I need to know. DONE
It went far smoother than I had dared to hope.

- Finally, find out what in Azeroth a Mofrah is. DONE
It should have been obvious, if a little unusual. A pox on pet names. That is the best the little blue creature could come up with?


I seem to have developed a new nightly ritual and made a new friend in the process. Well more like I am becoming better acquainted with an old friend. We scarce said more than a few phrase to each other in the past while storming Karazhan. A pity as she is so very interesting to talk to.

[Skafloc]

She is looking very good. It was nice to see her smiling again just as I remembered her of old.

If that is what his presence delivers than that is the medicine that was needed. Not my poison.

The man is certainly capable as well. Granted I am more than a little rusty with my new direction and more training is needed obviously, but I will not take away credit where it is due nor make excuses for myself. Be that as it may I was never the best of duelists. He is strong and knowledgeable. I could wish for no other as her protector and companion in the coming storm we all appear to sense descending on this world.

Learn to move my feet faster. Then perhaps the duels will have a different outcome. Well, maybe not, but I can always dare to hope. At least she had the good graces to not laugh. Not that I thought she would. Well, maybe a little bit. She is still Evanthe after all.

I have had no word from Ninorra. I wonder if she was able to deliver her performance yet?

Carmensita appears to be in better spirits. She amazes me with her resilience of spirit, seemingly able to rebound from almost anything with an ease that is admirable. Whoever her people are or where they come from they are a hardy race.


People seem to like my beard. I was going to shave it off but I think I will keep it for the time being. Living in the field it just makes it easier. Less bother trying to shave every morning from the reflection of some still pool of water or a puddle.

[Vilmah]

I could wish for no other as her protector and companion in the cumming storm we all appear sense descending on this world.

((Uhhhhhhmmmm...... >_____>))

[NotMaithanet]

((Trust Vilmah to take it past giggling privately >_>))

[Vilmah]

((Trust Vilmah to take it past giggling privately >_>))

((Let it be known to all what kind of a man Skafloc REALLY is!))

[Skafloc]

(( Edited to spare myself embarrassment and awkward snickers directed Eva's way. :D))

[Evanthe]

[Well, we all know where Skaf's mind is... ]

[Skafloc]

[Well, we all know where Skaf's mind is... ]

[ Hey! You are supposed to be on my side! ]

[Vilmah]

(( Edited to spare myself embarrassment and awkward snickers directed Eva's way. :D))

((I think Skaf was thinking of something else headed in Eva's way.. okay, I'm done..))

[Skafloc]

Just a few more things to pack away and my camp should be ready to be struck down, after I finish these last few journal entries of course.

I will admit that I will miss the simple peace of this place for the most part. The dodging of flung feces from my next door neighbor is something I am certain I can live without. The poor fellow will need to find a new hobby.

I am still sorting through the details of the visit and discussion and have come no closer to settling on what exactly is her major concern at the moment. Certainly not the legal scenarios she presented. She seems to have a good enough grasp of those and has contingencies in place. I would have expected no less truth be told. Perhaps in the end all she wished was a sounding board, someone she maybe trusted just a little to bounce her own thoughts and concerns off of.

Ambition? Title and property? It was not her style, yet as I well know people change with time, their needs and wants along with them. I was myself ready not that long ago to forsake all of my own holdings on a whim, probably would have if it were not for Taknar and his wise counsel. So why did I change my mind?

Why hold on to the estate? What is it to me? Prestige? Influence? Hardly. History? There is that. It is family. It is a reminder of where I came from and what I was. Where my ancestors became the people they were and thus passing on that legacy to me. Is that what I am now hunting for, a purpose that brings me back to them? I have my work with the farstriders and the Cross is poised ready to do their part in the coming conflict in the north. She mentioned renewing alliances. We should speak on that again sometime. In that regard our work may not be so very different.

But all of that is peripheral. It is not what I am truly seeking. What is it I want? I cannot even answer here in this journal any easier than I could her spoken question. Her warning was clear enough however, the more wants one has in this day and age make for more things to worry about holding.

So what is it she wants I wonder? That she has some is plain enough, even if she seems loathe to name them. Private as always. Or perhaps in the naming she just fears to expose a bit more of herself than she would otherwise wish. I can understand that I think. At this point if I had a clue what it was that I wanted I think I would be protecting that with an iron fist.

One thing I do know is that the answer will not come to me sitting idle here in Feralas, regardless how picturesque and verdant the forest. It is for me to go out and find it. Paths to the past may lead to the present. It is just a matter of finding them. Finding out what part of me is me, and how much over the years I placed in others. How much I defined myself by whom I was with rather than who I was inside. How much of that was lost each time it was torn from me. Poisons, fel runes, troll hexes, other things I am loathe to write but brush past my memories like fleeting dark shadows.

I am so tired, so very tired. That is the baggage that Evanthe spoke of I see that now. That is what I need to either purge and cast aside, or maybe absorbed into myself completely so that it can be manipulated and shaped as I see fit.

So I strike my camp and move on to another location, stagnant waters give little promise of life.

I must be sure to send word to Chauncey, at the very least to expect possible visitors in the coming days.

The mountains are nice this time of year. Perhaps I shall set up camp in Alterac.

[Skafloc]

I should not have been caught off guard like that.

Honestly I expected news of that sort in time, but not so soon.

So soon.

Just scant weeks away from the anniversary of my own proposal. I wonder if she even realized?

Then as if to add punctuation to her news the final papers arrived in the mail.

So it is done.

[Vilmah]

((Oh no she di'ent!))

[Skafloc]

He was gone but has returned.

But to what end and to what future?

Our talk was far from conclusive though his tale was astonishing in its implications. I had no idea. Nobody did as far as I can recall. Never had I heard it mentioned from my father or even Grandsire Orloc. For certain he must have known.

It explains much I had wondered about but opens the door on many more questions. I wonder how much of it the baroness knows.?

In the interim Ms. Bae'shan is doing an admirable job. I have to admit my first meeting of her was rather awkward. Her appearance is uncannily familiar, so much so I actually asked if she had any relations among the Cindersongs. I even found myself briefly questioning Chauncey's wisdom at hiring her.

The question of Chauncey will need to be sorted out, sooner rather than later. I am hoping some inspiration and guidance will come to me.

I could always go to visit Her.

If there is any vision that can inspire me it is She. Her beauty is luminescent, ethereal. I can well understand why she was so coveted. Her presence is both calming and overwhelming in its power. I have never sensed its like.

One such as her was placed here in this world to inspire. Of that I have no doubt.