Chronicles of the Lightbringer's Successor

(( This work has been published In-Character and is now ICly available to all. ))
Amidst the intensifying earthquakes, libraries across Azeroth have been making attempts to secure their collections against possible catastrophe. The publishing of new works almost came to a stop. But, even amongst the hustle and bustle, word began to spread amongst librarians: a descendant of a family almost extinguished has stepped forward to continue a family tradition as ancient as Arathor. For the first time since the Third War, a Chronicle has written a Chronicle.
However, while this news would garner vast attention amongst scholars in more peaceful times, it is only spoken of quickly and almost forgotten in favor of concerns of the day, stemming from events that threaten to become cataclysmic. And so, copies of the new work, while distributed amongst librarians, is barely read, but quickly secured as part of the treasured collections of books that many librarians pray to the Light will not perish in the days to come.''
Upon the cover is the title "Chronicles of the Lightbringer's Successor". Beneath it sits the crest of the Chronicle family, and it's motto: History Never Ends. On the inside cover is the following passage:
"History is often thought of as a study of the past, but this is only partially correct. Every story that is true came to be because of the stories that preceded it, and had a hand in forming the stories that came to follow. This is the cause-and-effect relationship as applied to people and societies. It is thus that the events of history form an unbroken progression from the distant past, up to the present day, and will continue in progression far into the future. History never ends." --Richard the Chronicler
==Chapter I: Introduction and Context==
These are the Chronicles of the Lightbringer's Successor, as written by myself, James Chronicle, originally of Lordaeron City.
The context of this chronicle is as follows: Arthas Menethil, who was the Lich King, was defeated in Icecrown Citadel. This event occurred in the year 621; one year after the Alliance and the Horde of Warchief Thrall were set upon by the Scourge's flying Necropoli all over the world in 620; two years after the Dark Portal connecting Azeroth and Outland (formerly known as Draenor) reopened in 619; eight years after Arthas killed his father, King Terenas Menethil, the last true King of Lordaeron, and his former mentor, Lord Uther the Lightbringer, in 613; 28 years since the Dark Portal connecting Azeroth and Draenor was first opened by Medivh leading quickly to the fall of Stormwind Keep before the Horde of Warchief Blackhand in 593; and 30 years since I, James Chronicle, was born in Lordaeron City in 591.
A female Kal'dorei Death Knight named Lirima Morsul was a contributor to Arthas Menethil's final and ultimate defeat, though none but the Highlord Tirion Fordring, leader of the Argent Crusade, are known to have been witness to the final moments of the Lich King's demise.
On the twenty-sixth day of the fifth month of 621, shortly after the ending of the Lich King's undeath, Lirima Morsul was seen walking into The Cathedral of Light in Stormwind City. I, myself, was not there, but witnesses who were present at the time have told me this: Morsul walked into the Cathedral bearing the blade Shadowmourne in her right hand. Witnesses sensitive to such things described Shadowmourne to me as pure, malevolent darkness. However, in her left hand, she held with utmost reverence a blue silk cloth that radiated The Holy Light, so much so that those same witnesses sensitive to such things described it as a pure blinding light, though it must be understood that it radiated The Holy Light, not a physical light that could literally blind a man's vision.
All who were present stayed their hands as Lirima Morsul approached Archbishop Benedictus. Again, I, myself, was not present for these events, but multiple sources whom I consider reliable have recorded Morsul's words as thus:
"I hold the tabard of Sire Uther Lightbringer, first Paladin of the Knights of the Silver Hand. You know this to be true, for the light of this cloth is radiant, and clear and bright as the morning sun. Even now it burns the very fingers which hold it, yet I endure, to see the task set before me done.
"Lord Uther entrusted this tabard to me when I returned to him the badge that he gifted to Prince Arthas Menethil when he was inducted into the Knights of the Silver Hand. The tabard is rightfully mine.
"However...
"I was given this tabard because I possess the wisdom to understand Lord Uther's will. This tabard is a symbol to be worn to renew the spirit, faith, and inspiration, which Lord Uther himself represented every day of his life as Grand Master of the Knights of the Silver Hand.
"Archbishop, send word to every corner of Azeroth. Every paladin who believes himself to be worthy of carrying on Uther's Legacy must hear my message:
"You, who would be Heir of the Lightbringer, must bring proof that you are worthy of his Legacy.
"Proof through Word. Lord Uther was both wise and magnanimous. Infinitely kind with unending generosity, fierce in leadership, steadfast in righteousness, yet never thoughtless, never foolhardy, never headstrong. Prove first through words that you embody all that he once was and strove to be.
"Proof through Deed. Lord Uther as a warrior was without equal. His strength in battle was legendary, his skills unmatched. No mere duelist, his feats inspired others to reach beyond themselves to heights greater than they alone could imagine. Prove through deed that you are capable of not only greatness, but also of inspiring others to be greater than themselves.
"The one paladin who can provide such proof to me shall become the rightful bearer of the Tabard of Sire Uther Lightbringer. Bring your proof to Lord Uther's Tomb. There, at the sunset of each day, I will be waiting."
Just as Morsul had entered The Cathedral of Light with reverence and without violence, so too did she then leave.
==Chapter II: The Tomb of Uther the Lightbringer==
Uther's Tomb is located in what is now known as the Western Plaguelands, in the southeastern part of Sorrow Hill, which is a graveyard southeast of the ruins of Andorhal. The sky is always a brownish-gray and, while trees and grass can be seen, both tend to look sickly throughout the Plaguelands. Some of the trees nearer to Uther's Tomb are healthier, as are trees on the edge of the Plaguelands. Most other trees, though, have no leaves on half their branches and look sickly, overall.
Uther's Tomb, itself, is a stone building. A decagon with a wall on each side except the side facing north, and a pillar at each corner. The walls on different sides join with the pillars at the corners, but not with each other directly, such that the pillars form part of the wall. Within the tomb is a a stone pedestal upon which is a statue of Lord Uther the Lightbringer, kneeling on his right knee, looking forward and upward, a large libram held in his left arm, and his right hand grasping a tall hammer just underneath the hammerhead. The tall hammer tilts away from Uther, the end of the hammer shaft rests upon the pedestal next to his right knee, and Uther's right hand is about the level of his head, making the hammer as a whole is slightly taller than Uther's kneeling form.
An inscription is set upon a separate stone in front of the pedestal, which reads thusly:
"Here lies Uther the Lightbringer
"First Paladin - Founder of the Order of the Silver Hand.
"Uther lived and died to defend the Kingdom of Lordaeron. Though he was betrayed by his most beloved student, we believe that his spirit lives on. He continues to watch over us, even as the shadows close in around our ruined land. His light is the light of all humanity - and so long as we honor his example, it shall never fade.
"-Anonymous"
Outside the north-facing opening of the tomb (which is the only opening), a stone walkway extends. It is covered by a stone roof, held aloft by three pairs of stone pillars, evenly spaced on either side. There are no walls for the walkway.
Four pairs of capped stone braziers stand near the Tomb, two pairs on either side of the walkway, and two pairs on either side of the dirt path leading to the tomb. There is no fence, door, or gate of any description, physical or magical.
High Priest Thel'danis, a male elf, is the keeper of the tomb. He silently patrols the Tomb, inspecting it, but for what, I'm not sure.
==Chapter III: June 7th==
Having heard of Lirima Morsul's call, I decided that such events might be worthy of a faithful historical record, and so I set out from my home in Stormwind and came to the Tomb of Lord Uther the Lightbringer, just before sunset of the seventh day of the sixth month of 621. Not knowing where within or near the tomb Lirima Morsul normally kept vigil, I seated myself inside the tomb, northeast of the statue with my back to the wall. There I waited for about fifteen minutes before I heard the sound of footsteps. Looking around the edge of the opening, I saw a tall, slim figure in a dark robe, its back to me.
I called out "Hail!" to get the person's attention, but they did not seem to respond. I picked up my belongings, which consisted of a pen, a bottle of Rethban Ink, parchments, and a copper tablet. Stowing the pen and ink carefully in my pack and placing the blank parchments and copper tablet under my right arm, I got up, left the Tomb proper, and walked casually up the walkway towards the solitary figure. Stopping at about two or three times arm's length, I called out "Greetings." The figure looked over her shoulder; it was at this point that I could see that it was a female undead Kal'dorei. I bowed in response. I silently presumed this person to be Lirima Morsul. My presumptions soon proved accurate.
The woman nodded, and spoke "Have you come bearing proof of your right to be named Heir to the Lightbringer?"
I had anticipated this question in advance, and immediately gave my reply "No. I'm here as a historian. My name is James Chronicle. Are you Morsul?"
"I am Lirima Morsul, yes," she answered.
"It is an honor to meet you." I bowed again, though Morsul was once again looking to the north, down the path, keeping her back to me. I continued "I understand that if one who would be heir appears, then that must take precedence, but in the absence of such, may I have your time?"
"There are no others here. By all means, speak." she answered.
I replied "Thank you. If it pleases you, I would like to ask you to tell your story to me, about you and your quest to find the Heir of the Lightbringer."
Morsul answered "The story is brief, if there is any. I hold vigil here each day, waiting for those who believe themselves worthy candidates to bring me proof. I judge the proof they bring. None have proven sufficient thus far."
"May I sit while I write these things down? It would make the writing easier for me." I asked.
"By all means."
"Thank you" I told her. I then arranged myself in a pattern that would quickly become common for me in the vigils I shared with Lirima Morsul; I sat cross-legged upon the stone of the walkway, with my back against a pillar, I placed on my lap a flat, smooth copper tablet that I had crafted for myself a few years prior, and then placed a blank parchment upon the tablet, so that the quill pen I used did not tear through the parchment as I wrote upon it. I then placed a bottle of Rethban ink on the stone floor next to me and unsealed the bottle.
In case other contemporary documents do not survive, I will point out that Rethban ink is made partially from Rethban ore obtained in the Redridge Mountains. The ink is fast drying, and thus less susceptible to smearing and smudging. I learned of this ink from a monk in Northshire Abbey.
I took my quill pen and dipped it into the ink bottle, and began writing what has been said and done, so far. I then asked "How did you come to begin on this quest?"
Morsul answered "I knew intrinsically that it was not meant for me to wear, but instead for me to find its proper wearer." I wrote this down and then looked at her, waiting for her to continue. It soon became evident, though, that she thought she had given a complete answer.
"Did Lord Uther say anything to you when he gave you the tabard?" I asked.
"He said nothing in regards to the tabard, no."
"What did he say? If anything, that is?" I asked.
"He spoke of lamentations for the better days he spent with Prince Arthas, and his sadness at how far he fell from the day he first earned his badge." Morsul replied.
"Was there anything else that he said?"
Mosrul answered only "No."
"Tell me about the place where you met Lord Uther."
"It was the entrance to Icecrown Citadel, the hallway which the Ashen Verdict forces were holding camp." Morsul answered.
"Ah, yes. I've assisted on assaults on the Citadel, before. I think I know which hallway of which you speak." I said. "I get the impression that you are a woman of few words. So, I apologize in advance if I seem like a pest with all these detailed questions."
Morsul replied "I do not mind."
"I am grateful for your patience. May I ask questions about your own past? Such as where you were first born and grew up?" I asked.
"You speak of things which are ages past. I cannot answer with places that no longer exist, or times which are beyond memory. I am old." Morsul said to me.
"Of course, forgive me. May I ask, then, of your life in the years before you were... I guess 'second born' is the polite term?"
"I was a Marshal in the Alliance military for some time. I fought in many battles, on many fronts."
"How long have you kept vigil, thus far?" I asked.
"For several weeks now. My vigil will continue until a proper heir is found." Morsul answered.
"How many have come forward?"
"Many." Morsul answered.
At that point, a Sin'dorei paladin approached Morsul and bowed before her. I pointed out to Morsul "It seems another has stepped forward." Morsul nodded, and turned toward the newcomer.
Morsul and the Sin'dorei spoke to each other in Thalassian, which I do not record here because I do not understand the language. Morsul's speech was occasionally accompanied by a nod of her head. Eventually, the Sin'dorei kneeled and Morsul removed from within her cloak the Tabard of Uther the Lightbringer, and held it aloft. The Sin'dorei smiled, and Morsul returned the tabard to it's hiding place (or so I guess it was) underneath her cloak. The Sin'dorei made a gesture (which I think was a gesture of thanks). Morsul bowed, the Sin'dorei bowed in return and waved goodbye before departing.
Morsul said to me "He was judged to be unworthy."
"I was just about to ask. What did he offer as proof?"
"He offered proof of his many battles for his people, for the Argent Dawn, and for the Argent Crusade."
"Anything else?"
"As words, he offered proof of his convictions in the core tenants of all paladins: Respect, Tenacity and Compassion. A fine paladin, but as with many, he lacked that which made Lord Uther more than just a paladin. My vigil has ended. I am called to other duties."
As I wrote down Morsul's answer, my hearthstone began to hum. I should point out that various teleportation magics had become more common in the years after the Third War in the form of what are called 'hearthstones'. Soon after, hearthstones were also infused with magics to communicate at distance. When I finished writing, I took hold of my hearthstone and concentrated upon it; it was Quickset, a gnomish warlock associate of mine in The Swords and Spells United, and he was calling for my aid. I replied to Quickset that I was on my way, and then said to Morsul "As am I, my friends call for aid." Morsul then departed as I began gathering my possessions.
So ended the vigil on the seventh day of the sixth month.
==Chapter IV: June 8==
On the following sunset, the eighth of the month, I arrived at the tomb. A human male was at the Tomb, already, kneeling and head lowered in prayer. I turned back to look at the road, then at the tomb again. Just as I called out "Hail" to the kneeling figure, I glanced towards the road yet again and noticed Morsul approaching.
At the same time, the kneeling man looked over his shoulder and replied "Hail."
I turned towards Morsul and greeted her, then told her that she had an applicant inside.
"He will approach when he is ready." Morsul told me.
I then arranged myself as described before: seated, with copper tablet, parchments, pen, and ink, except that I sat on the side of the steps and facing east, instead of my back to a pillar. Morsul was facing northwards, away from the statue and the kneeling man.
The human male got up from his kneeling position after about a minute, approached Morsul from behind with a sword in one hand an libram in the other, and more said than truly asked "You are the one they speak of?"
"I am the one who carries the Tabard of the Lightbringer, yes." Morsul replied. She did not turn to face him.
The man hung the libram from something he was wearing and sheathed his sword, then walked around Morsul to stand in front of her, then bowed his head in greeting. "I am Sir Taldrus Dawnfield, I would like very much to know the name of she who carries the Tabard."
"I am Lirima Morsul. Have you come bearing proof of your candidacy, proof that you are worthy of being named Heir to the Lightbringer?"
"I have come bearing myself, my armor, my weapon and my faith." Dawnfield said. Dawnfield reached up to his own head with one hand and drew back the chainmail hood from his head, and then shook out his hair.
Morsul said to Dawnfield "Very well. From those I require two items of proof. Proof through words, and proof through deed. Are you prepared to offer these?"
Dawnfield nodded slowly and replied "I shall provide you with that which I can truthfully bear."
"First, proof through words. What words do you offer as proof of your worthiness?" Morsul asked of Dawnfield.
Dawnfield nodded, then seemed to think for a moment before speaking. "I hail from these lands, yet have traveled the world in service to The Light. In this time I have found my body, my mind, my soul and my faith tested time and again, however The Light has graced me with the path to righteousness. Through trial and tribulation it has illuminated my way and preserved me from the darkness that has consumed so many. The Light is seen, far too often, as only a weapon for use in ones battles, but it is far more than this, it is a way of life. In the shadows of war and despair, The Light can and will shine the brightest to preserve even the weakest among us through the hardest of times. It is my faith I present to you in word, the unyielding strength of heart to carry one through the hardships of life while still singing its praise."
Morsul replied "You speak well of your faith. And indeed, Lord Uther felt strongly of his faith, it was his guiding light and his greatest strength. However it was more than simply his faith which made him who he was, it was how he acted upon it. And thus we come to the second requirement. Proof through deed. What deed have you done, what proof can you offer, of your worthiness to be named Heir to the Lightbringer?"
Taldrus drew his sword and kneeled to lay it upon the stone steps. He remained kneeling with his head lowered. "I can not claim to be the hero of wars nor the savior of the world, I am but a paladin and have lived my life accordingly. This, however, does not mean I have shied away from battle. In my youth I fought to defend these lands from the oncoming Scourge. I stood upon the fields and did battle with the Undead, I lost both my parents and many friends, but I saved many lives. It is not simply the task of a Paladin to swing The Light about as one would a sword or an axe, it is to use the abilities granted us by it to defend and to protect, to heal the sick and the wounded. After the fall of The Ashbringer, I left these lands to put what skills I had to use. I walked the lands, righting what wrongs I could in the world. I brought evil men to face justice, I tended the sick and healed the wounded... I spent many years traveling and learned all that I could about The Light and have brought it to bear. I call those among the faithful to gather, I seek to assemble the brothers and sisters who would stand in The Light's glow to unify and stand against the oncoming darkness. My own deeds may not be sung of in the years to come, but it is the act of uniting the masses that I expect to be remembered. The Circle of Holy Light will become a source of inspiration and guidance, another bastion of hope in the years to come." Dawnfield then got up slowly. "For The Light shines brightest even within the greatest darkness."
During Dawnfield's answer, another human male whom I recognized as Jaero approached the tomb and began listening.
Morsul nodded, then seemed to consider what she had heard. "You are the first to bring proof of such worth to me. Where all others have failed outright, you have shown an inkling of the spark which I seek. However, I cannot make a final judgement so easily. Go forth. I will consider your words. You will know when I have made my decision."
Dawnfield nodded slowly before looking to her and asking, "If I may ask of you one thing before I depart?"
"You may." Morsul answered.
"If you have not found a proper decision as of this Friday, would you please come to the Cathedral in Stormwind to attend a service I shall be holding? The mere sight of Lord Uther's tabard would do much to inspire those who will be gathered." Taldrus said.
"I shall consider it. I make no promises." was Morsul's reply.
"I thank you nonetheless." Taldrus then knelt again, picked up his sword, and said "Blessed be you by The Light, Lirima Morsul. Be safe." He then sheathed his sword and stepped back, preparing to leave.
Morsul then turned her attention to Jaero. "Sir Jaero, I require some time to medidate before I can see you. Forgive me." Jaero merely nodded in reply to Morsul.
Dawnfield then turned to me, and nodded at me. "Be safe as well, Sir."
I replied to Dawnfield "Light bless you."
Jaero then said to Dawnfield "You have courage, lad. Well done." and smiled at Dawnfield.
Dawnfield turned towards Jaero and nodded slowly. "Sir Jaero, it has been quite some time. Thank you."
Jaero then said to Dawnfield "I wish you luck, if your aim is to wear the tabard of our patron. For now, I have prayers to say and blessings to ask of him.
Dawnfield nodded, and said to Jaero "Be safe, Sir Jaero" before departing.
Jaero proceeded in towards the statue and Morsul. I picked up my things to follow and reseated myself with my back to a pillar, this time, and facing southwards towards the statue. Jaero kneeled next to Morsul, both of them facing the statue with their heads bowed in silence. I took this time to dip my pen in ink and write down the things I had seen, lest I forget them.
At some point Morsul stood up, turned to Jaero, and said "You visit me once more, Sir Jaero."
Jaero remained still with head bowed and replied "Yes, my Lady."
"Have you come at last bearing proof?" morsul asked.
I interrupted, saying "I'm sorry, if this is a private conversation, I can leave."
Jaero looked over his shoulder at me and said "I'd take it as a kindness if you would leave my words out of your book, lad."
I replied "Of course. I'll be at the end of the path." I then gathered my things, and then rearranged myself at one of the northernmost pillars, out of earshot. After some time, a female human paladin I had seen before, named Silverdawn, approached, and went towards the tomb. I again got up, gathered my things, and reapproached the tomb. Jaero and Morsul were still conversing, though in respect to Jaero's earlier request, I do not record their conversation here. At the end of it, though, Jaero faced the statue and loudly recited the following poem:
His name brought Light to darkest Azeroth.
His valor tore the walls of mis'ry down.
The Silver Hand would ne'er do better more
than give the world the knight who'd give himself.
His fame was not that which he sought to grow,
nor was the lordship over his own kind.
Instead he chose to fight -- for Lordaeron!
to hope his kin would have to fight no more...
Jaero then began to speak more quietly, but still audibly.
The tragic tale of this most holy knight
will never end with his unholy death.
We honor him, and we shall give him thanks!
Uther always shall know glory and Light!
Jaero and Morsul then exchanged additional words that I also do not record here.
Morsul then said "My vigil here has come to an end this evening. Sir Jaero, I shall await your proof upon your next visit."
Jaero replied "You shall have it. I too must return to my own vigil. The Thondroril river awaits..."
As Jaero departed, I asked of him where the poem was from. He cited a Jennre Loresinger and said that I may use the poem in my writing, which is why the poem is recorded above.
I then said to Jaero "Thank you. Light bless you."
Jaero replied "And you, lad."
During this, Silverdawn approached Morsul and they began conversing as old friends. I missed most of the exact words said because I had not been writing at the time, but apparently Morsul correctly anticipated that a contest like this would not interest Silverdawn because Silverdawn didn't feel the need to wear Uther's Tabard. Silverdawn complimented Morsul, genuinely, on knowing her so well. Morsul also said something about the vigils being lonely, and called Silverdawn "suulamin". Silverdawn then promised to join Morsul on her vigils. We all then departed the tomb.
So ended the vigil on the eighth day of the sixth month.
==Chapter V: June 9==
On the following sunset, the ninth of the month, I had arrived first at the Tomb, and was seated as usual, a little further in than normal to avoid the rain that was falling that evening. Morsul approached, and I got up and bowed before her, then reseated myself. "Two nights ago, during your conversation with the Sin'dorei, you held aloft what I presume was Uther's Tabard. You then put it away again. May I ask why?"
"The sin'dorei asked to see it." Morsul replied.
I said "Ah, I see. I don't think I ever asked any Kal'dorei this, but do your people keep written histories?"
"No. There is no need." Morsul answered.
At that moment, Silverdawn approached, her footsteps splashing into puddles as she walked. She stepped under the stone roof over the walkway and brushed the excess water from her hair. "The rain is beginning to smell pure. At last. Do you think the Plaguelands are beginning to heal?"
Morsul answered "Perhaps. We will know in the coming years."
Silverdawn stated, instead of asked "You are expecting someone."
Morsul replied "Yes."
Silverdawn then asked "May I observe?"
Morsul answered "Of course. I am delighted to see you here, after all."
Silverdawn smiled. "It's kind of you to say that." She then removed her gauntlets and squeezed the water from her soaked sleeves. "How will you know when you've found the right one?"
Morsul only said "I will know."
"In your heart?" SIlverdawn persisted.
"I will simply know..." was Morsul's reply.
Silverdawn smiled and sighed. She then reached into a leather pouch at her belt and pulled out a small block wrapped in shining paper, upon which drops of rainwater had settled without soaking into it. Unwrapping it, she revealed a few rectangular cakes, baked firm, sesame and dried fruit coating it. She removed one slice and offered it to Morsul, smirking. "You're so icy, Lirima. Why not eat something?"
Morsul chuckled. "Always thinking of me." I only smiled and I wrote upon my parchments.
Silverdawn grinned lightly and shook the cake in front of Morsul, saying in a sing-song voice "It's almost go~ne." Then said "Oh come on. I brought them from Ironforge." Morsul sighed, and took a bite of the cake. "There's a good kal'dorei." Silverdawn said, then grinned and turned around before also saying "Don't hit me for that." Morsul's only reply was just to look at Silverdawn, then let out a long sigh. Silverdawn then looked over her should back at me and asked "Would you like one?"
I smiled and said "I'm fine, but thank you for offering." I bowed my head at Silverdawn in respect.
Silverdawn nodded to me and said "Fair enough." She then elbowed Morsul, asking "What, I can't have a little fun at your expense sometimes?" In a more serious tone, she then asked "How many seekers have you met?"
Morsul said "Many."
"How many have pleased you?" Silverdawn asked.
"Only one thus far." Morsul answered.
"That's disappointing." Silverdawn commented, then took a small bite of her cake, turned away from me, and brushed her mouth demurely with a cloth.
I then asked "Silverdawn, is it okay if I ask you questions, from time to time? Lirima Morsul has been very gracious in tolerating my presence and my questions, but... and my apologies to you, Miss Morsul... her answers tend to be brief, and I would like as many details of these events to survive in history, so that they might inspire future generations who look up to Uther."
Silverdawn said in reply "Please, feel free. I'll try to answer them as best I can."
"Silverdawn, were you present when Morsul met Lord Uther?" I asked.
Silverdawn shook her head and said "I was not."
Just then, a human male approached. I said "Ah, it looks like we have an applicant."
Morsul said to him "Come in out of the rain."
The man said "My thanks" and bowed before Morsul. "A pleasure to meet you."
Morsul asked "Have you come bearing proof that you are a worthy Heir to the Lightbringer this day?"
Rather than answer the question, he pulled out a box of cigars. "Do you mind? A terrible habbit, I know, but Tai got me hooked on them."
Silverdawn had stood up, and was now leaning against a pillar, arms crossed.
Morsul said to the newcomer "By all means."
The man then pulled out a cigar and lit it with a small fire, then inhaled through it. He then asked "Would you care for one, or your scribe perhaps? Stranglethorn's finest, I'm told. Mind you, it all tasts like ash after a few minutes."
I was still writing, but replied "No, thank you. Those have wound up killing a couple of relatives."
Morsul said "No, I am fine."
The man then said "Very well" before putting the box away. "As to your question. No. I believe the only man worthy of that honor earned it as he wore it."
Morsul said "Very well. The tomb is open to all, then."
The man pressed on, though. "However, I do request a chance to obtain the holy relic."
Morsul nodded. "Very well."
The man gestured to the floor near the pillar.
Morsul stated "In order to earn Lord Uther's tabard, and to be named Heir to his legacy, you are required to present two items of proof. First, proof through words. What words do you offer as your proof?"
The man then said "Here are my words: in my time I have lied, cheated, stolen, blackmailed, counterfitted, pickpocketed, and killed a man in anger. Yet, at the end of that dark road, I heard a voice calling me home, and on to a path of compassion. But these are not the words that might persuade you, I believe. This, however..." He then pulled out a letter. "...may, and it is only fitting if it does, because they are what brought me to a cemetary this rainy evening." He then handed the letter to Morsul, who read the letter. Domo continued "Written by my plague-taken brother, and delivered to me Light-knows what avenue. I recieved it about six months ago, and have spent my hours since researching, trying to find a way to cure his...condition."
Morsul said "I know of Stethane. I am sad to hear of his condition."
The man said "I can tell you my theory, if you care to hear it?"
Morsul replied "I will hear it."
At this point, a female gnome death knight approached and began silently observing.
The man smiled, then took another breath through his cigar. "It all comes down to energy, I believe. Light, Dark, Arcane, or otherwise. We know it many forms. The Journal of Archmage Vargoth spoke of leylines all abound of in Azeroth. We see it in our enchanting. We see warlocks use it to power their fel method. Legends of Frostmourne indicated that it drank souls. But we have little or known history of soul enchanted items used to help, rather than harm. I believe it's because the process is much longer, much more intuitive than we may have realized." The man emphasized the word 'intuitive'. He waved the smoke away from his face. "I apologize for the lecturing. Sometimes I drift. I believe that Uther's soul, or a part of it at least, remains within that tabard. My research suggests that the Light is really a complex metaphysical force that exists on many levels at once, both a wave and particle if you will, and its gift is that it can nullify fel, or dark energies. I am not a pious man; I know this. I would give my life this moment to save my brother, but my research suggests I will need the help of a spirit much greater, much Lighter, if you will, than mine."
Morsul then said "And so you require the Tabard to accomplish this."
The man then said "Yes, I believe I can use it to augment my own healing skills, or perhaps by having him wear it, its constant holy source might counteract and cure the plague within him."
Morsul then said "Very well. I have heard your reasoning."
The female gnome death knight then blurted out "So you want it just for your own ends?"
The man replied "I want it to save my brother. Is that selfish? I guess it could be seen that way. But, he saved me in the invasion. He carried me from Lordaeron to the refuge point in Arathi. He saved me again, from the Scarlets not so long ago! How can I not try to save him in return?"
The gnome answered "I didn't mean to interrupt. It just seems a small fate for such a grand symbol."
The man then said "With any, ahah, luck, I would hope the process would offer a path back for any who needs it, or wishes it."
Morsul then asked "There is a second proof required. Proof through deed. Do you have such proof to offer, or will your words suffice?"
The man answered "I count the martial encounters I have been through as survival born of necessity. I do not fight the dark to be deed-worthy, and I cannot offer my brother's deeds on his behalf, nor my desire to save him because it has not happened."
Morsul answered "Very well. I shall pass judgment, then."
The man nodded and pocketed the remains of his cigar.
Morsul stated "I sympathize your loss, and I understand your desire to see the redemption of your borther. It is a sad thing that so much tragedy is a part of our lives. However, I cannot give up the Tabard of the Lightbringer for this purpose."
The man smiled and said "I understand."
"I am sorry." Morsul stated.
The man said "We all do only what we must. I eagerly await the arrival of your champion, perhaps they can help me heal my brother."
"If and when they are found, all of Azeroth shall know." Morsul said.
The man bowed and said "Fare well then. It's a warm tavern, and a cold beer for me tonight." He then waved and walked away.
The gnome then said "I hope my outburst didn't influence your decision against him."
Morsul replied 'No, it did not."
Silverdawn then stopped leaning on the pillar. "I'm beginning to realize just how daunting this task truly is."
Morsul said "Many come. Few are worthy."
Silverdawn stated "I could never compare myself to someone I revere."
The gnome asked "May I ask what it is you seek in a person?"
Morsul asnwered "I shall know it when I see it."
Silverdawn then added "I am relieved, but also a little sad, that I am not seeking the tabard."
The gnome then asked Silverdawn "Why not seek it? Do you not think you can obtain it?"
Silverdawn then said "I have no desire for it. Uther was a great man. But I don't know what I would do with his tabard any more than I might know what to do with a brick from his tomb." I chuckled at this and kept writing. "Besides..." She waved her hand dismissively. "...I'm horrible at speeches."
The gnome then asked "Do you not see what it could mean? A symbol of what things once were. When paladins were truely meant to be honored. ...or at least that what my friend tells me."
Silverdawn says "I think I understand. I just...don't know how I could honor it properly. The real successor of Uther must not seek to become like him. Instead, he must seek what Uther sought. Or so I think."
The gnome said "True. But the challenges Uther faces and the challenges we face today vary somewhat."
Morsul then stated "It is not a matter of being like Uther. It is about true greatness."
Silverdawn said "It just seems strange. What truly great man would speak of his own greatness? I suppose you'll have the answer to that question when you see it."
I them spoke up "I've actually been wondering the same thing."
Silverdawn nodded at me in agreement. "A good leader must have pride, however. It takes great character to speak with pride of one's accomplishments, without arrogance."
"I hope we can find it. I know a man who holds great interest in the outcome." the gnome said.
"Who might that be, if I may ask?" I asked the gnome.
"My friend. He's a blood elf. He too has come into possesion of one of Uther's tabards. He seems to think that it's no coincidence that he found one and now a search is being held among the alliance for someone to wear it."
Silverdawn then said "We ought to inform him when a worthy bearer has been found." She then smiled and looked at Morsul.
Morsul said "That may be true. However, that is not a question for me to answer. My task is simple."
Silverawn then said to Morsul "The rain is coming down hard. I'm going to Chillwind. Shall I meet you there soon?"
Morsul stated "Yes, my vigil has ended..."
The gnome then asked "So you'll set it up again tomorrow and the day after as well?"
Morsul replied "Every day...."
The gnome asked "Well I told my friend I'd keep an eye on this so I suppose that means I'll be here as well. That is okay with you right?"
I laughed and stated "Miss Morsul seems to be collecting a court of observers, now" and grinned. Silverdawn smirked.
"All are welcome." Morsul stated.
Silverdawn said to Morsul "I'll see you in Chillwind."
The gnome then wondered "I'm not sure if tabard appointing was a spectator sport or not."
Morsul said in reply "I cannot chase others from this tomb, and I will not stop anyone from observing."
Everyone else then departed from the tomb. I gathered my things and left in my Mekgineer's Chopper.
As I drove down the road, I passed Morsul and asked her if she wanted to ride in the sidecar to Chillwind. Morsul declined, and I said to her "Light bless you, then." ...and left the area.
So ended the vigil on the ninth day of the sixth month.
==Chapter VI: June 13==
Due to unrelated circumstances involving other responsibilities I was bound to that each happened to require my presence elsewhere during sunset, I was unable to attend another vigil until four nights later, the thirteenth day of the sixth month. However, during that time, I had managed to complete a fantastic device to aid me in my efforts to record history. Where the technology for this device comes from bears explanation.
When the draenei joined the Grand Alliance of Lordaeron, they brought with them many fantastic technologies, far beyond what even the gnomes had developed, which the draenei had themselves received from the naaru. One of these technologies deal with controlled illusions. Those who visit The Exodar today, in The Vault of Lights, can see illusions presented to them of the different kinds of demons of the Burning Legion. While the actual demons spoken of are beings of substantive flesh, the illusions used to educate passersby in The Vault of Lights are constructs of light with no substance at all. The draenei have also used these same illusions to communicate at distance, capturing the image of one speaker, and constructing that image into an illusion before the other speaker. More important to my own efforts, they can also capture a speaker's image to be reconstructed into an illusion at a later time.
Being an engineer, I did not wish to merely acquire such a device wholesale from the naaru, but to understand the underlying technology. So, several months previous to the fall of the Lich King, I had started work on building my own such device. I had originally intended it to record what I saw during explorations of Titanic ruins. In any event, I was ready to test it, at sunset of the thirteenth day of the sixth month, at Uther's Tomb. Not considering it reliable, I continued writing words with pen, ink, and parchment, lest my invention fail me. Thankfully, though, it has not failed me yet.
Morsul approached, and I bowed my head towards her in respect. I then heard a yell in the distance of "Apologies for the delay! I'll be there shortly!" from a voice that sounded very much like, but I was hoping was not actually, Calithos Blyde.
"That's... not..." I began to say slowly in denial, but then admitted in a tone of resignation, "...Blyde."
Calithos Blyde is the son of the late Lord Blyde, who was suspect of being a dark magic user by some, but it was never proven by any in the courts.
Calithos soon arrived at the Tomb, leisurely tipped his hat, and said "Greetings, Knight Morsul... and James. Good to see you as well." He smiled, though not at anyone in particular.
As I wrote, I replied "Good Evening, Calithos."
Calithos' wife, Remia, had arrived separately, and said to Morsul "Well met, lady", and to her husband "Evening, Master Calithos."
Morsul said to Calithos "For what reason have you come to this tomb? If you wish to pay your respects to Lord Uther, then you may go within."
Calithos replied "I come seeking the Tabard. Though the respects are what I seek to do as well, regardless of the outcome."
Remia added "I admired the man of course for his compassion and virtue but I am also here to support my mate." SHe then gazed at Calithos.
Morsul narrowed her eyes at Calithos, studying him. "The tabard is not for you to wear. While I respect your wishes, it is only to a paladin or a member of the Knights of the Silver Hand who I will give the Tabard to."
Calithos responded "I hear Jaero the grim has come also seeking the tabard. I know the man is of piety, and virtue, but never studied the ways of the paladin. He sought the ways of war, of the blade and hammer. Yet I hear he seeks it as well. I feel if he is seeking this...." He let the sentence trail off.
"Sir Jaero is a member of the Knights, I have seen proof of his badge." was Morsul's answer.
Calithos persisted. "Yet the tabard if a symbol of faith. It was not meant just for the Silver Hand, as if some 'boys club' to be part of. It was meant as a symbol, of what the Light should stand for. Paladins or Priests, are just some people who take up this as a job. They see this as duty, as some calling they must answer, that isn't something they can simply wave away like smoke." Remia smiled proudly at Calithos.
Morsul retorted "It is not you who will judge who this Tabard is meant for. It was I who was entrusted with that task."
Calithos asked Morsul "But do you not believe that some -badge- denotes such a declaration? Or the devotion, or faith behind what the tabard stands for?"
Morsul answered "There are many who have come to me with strong faith, and offered their faith as proof. All have been found unworthy. This Tabard represents more than just faith."
"The tabard always represented more than faith. But faith is always the first step towards what it represented. For if Lord Uther did not feel the faith he knew was right, would he have had the hope to protect these lands? Would he lack the resolve to know if he fell in battle, he did so righteously?" Calithos asked.
"Indeed, faith was a part of the man." Morsul admitted.
Calithos then asked "Then would you at least not be willing to hear my appeal? Even if I am deemed unworthy. One must try, even if they are doomed to fail."
Morsul continued, ignoring the question. "However, it is not faith alone which I judge. There is a purpose to what I do here every day while I hold vigil, and while I mean no disrespect, it would be impossible to fulfill my purpose by giving the tabard to you."
Calithos looked up at the sky, then down at the ground, as though thinking, then looked at Morsul. "If you feel so greatly as such." I gently shook out my wrist and continued writing.
Remia slipped her arm around Calithos and set her hand on his shoulder gently. "I know you are a good and worthy man. You need no such symbolic tokens to prove such a thing."
Morsul said to Calithos "Know this: The Tabard is not the mark of a great man, or a man destined for great things. If you truly believe as you do, if you truly believe you can work the Light's work, and do great things in this world, then do them. The tabard I carry is but a piece of cloth."
Calithos replied "That it is. A rather nice looking tabard, though. Must admit that." Then he smiled.
Morsul went on. "I am sorry. I know the answer I gave you is disappointing. However I will not compromise my purpose, my charge, and my vigil."
Calithos admitted "To be honest? I'm relieved." I looked up in puzzlement at Calithos for that, but continued writing. "You're reluctant to let this go to anyone but who you think will be capable of being..well. So...unlike what we could push to." Remia grasped Calithos' hand and squeezed it. "If I was a man who would attempt to guess, such a man would have to be willing to move even you, to perhaps move you so greatly to make such a still, sad heart beat once again from hope. Care to join me in paying respects? It -is- raining, and I'd rather not smell like a wet dog."
Morsul smiled faintly. "If such a man exists, he would surely be worthy of the Lightbringer's legacy."
Calithos smiled in return. "If I were a betting man, I'd tell you who I think was much like it." Calithos then pointed towards the statue. "But that's for later, yes?"
During this conversation, a male dwarf hunter and a female human magess had arrived at the Tomb separately. The dwarf, at this point, said to the magess "Come. Seat yerself down, hm? Better than standing in the rain." The magess just looked nonplussed at the dwarf and then continued gazing at the Tomb.
The conversation between Morsul and Calithos continued. "Go within, and pay your respects to Lord Uther" Morsul said to Calithos.
Calithos tipped his hat to Morsul. "Good luck on finding them." He then looked at Remia. "Coming, love?"
"I am not a priest or a paladin, my dear." Remia replied.
Calithos stated "Faith isn't about that. Now come." He then grasped her hand.
Morsul said to Remia "You need not be either. Lord Uther was not such a discriminating man."
Remia replied "Thank you."
Morsul then turned her gaze to two new arrivals: a human female paladin, and a dwarf I recognized as Throdin Flamesmelt. It should be pointed out that Flamesmelt was covered, as usual, completely in armor; looking at him, all one can see is a dwarf-shaped set of armor moving about, but one cannot actually see the dwarf inside, he is so covered. I recognized him only by virtue of the fact that Throdin and I have fought side-by-side on many occasions.
Morsul asked the human female "Have you come bearing proof that you are the heir to the Lightbringer's Legacy? Come forth then, and present what proof you have brought."
She replied "I bring nothing with me but what stands on my own two feet. But if you will let me, guardian, whose name I still do not know, I wish to speak. Briefly. As you know, I have come here before."
Morsul stated "Very well. The first proof is proof through words. You may speak."
The woman nodded, lifted her forearm from its idle perch on a libram chained to her armor. Calithos said to the woman "Good Luck, Maewood" before moving towards the statue.
Remia smiled kindly at Maewood and said "Indeed, best of luck."
Maewood paused, turned her head to Calithos, and briefly bowed her head. She then looked at Morsul and said "The voices of those who passed survive as echoes in those who survived, and pass its teachings to others today. My word is among them. I do not pretend to think that every one of my words is wiser than another's."
Remia whispered softly to Calithos "That statement alone is evidence of her wisdom." Calithos rubbed his nose and muttered, low enough that not even my illusion recorder could hear.
Maewood continued. "But by any word that I have spoken, I have carried my life as that of a solider. And the path I tred is that of the Light." She paused, the added with a bow of her head. "That is all the word I believe I can give."
"Your words have more wisdom in them than you give yourself credit for. Be proud, you are a Knight of the Silver Hand. Your words do them credit." Morsul replied.
Maewood continued "My deepest thanks, guardian."
Morsul then asked "However, it is not with words alone that I can judge. There must be proof of deed as well. What proof do you offer?"
Maewood nodded once, then paused. When she did speak, she spoke quietly. "As I said as I came forward, I come here on my own two feet. And as I said weeks ago, I am a holy knight, and always will be. There was reason to my coming here twice, weeks ago. I could perhaps speak of my time in the Third War, but there were many others that answered the war's call." Maewood lifted her head to look at Morsul. "I am Arialynn Alis Maewood, commander of the Templars of the Rose. One month ago, my order was drawn into war with its strongest ally. The Tears of Draenor. I came here for a moment of solace, to the lands where the Silver Hand was born. To the tomb of Uther the Lightbringer - perhaps for one last lesson." I shook out my wrist gently then continue writing frantically what Maewood was saying. "The Templars faced the choice of killing an ally or preserving itself. I bring only this recent deed: the Templars and Tears fought in Northrend. They were once allies. What sets us against one another is an old hate that dates to the First War." During this speech, Remia looked at Calithos questioningly. Calithos merely frowned, looked at Remia, then at Maewood, and wrapped his arm around Remia. Naewood went on. "But that is not the path that the Templars should seek. I will see the Templars and Tears fight together once again. Neutral orders such as the Templars, or Alliance-friendly orders such as the Tears are now enemies of the most hot-blooded Alliance and Horde."
Throdin made a "Hmph" sound.
Arialynn shook her head as she spoke. "Perhaps one day, the Templars will be chased from Alliance lands. But there was a time when hatred was put aside to fight the true enemies. Perhaps I am a fool, but I will see to it that those days will happen again. For however many years left in my lifetime."
Throdin interrupted. "I would rather not be, Arial." I think he meant to say that he'd rather not be a fool. "That'd kind of undermine our goal. Hard to vouch fer peace fer a faction yer not part of." Throdin slowly walked up towards Morsul. "Permission to interrupt?"
Arialynn nodded at Throdin in agreement. "Yes, Throdin. ...and the permission can only be given by someone other than me."
Morsul turned her eyes to Throdin. "You may speak, but know that my judgement shall be on what she presents alone, and by nothing else."
Throdin made another "hmph" sound and then said "Problem is, ye can't make that judgement by what she presents alone. Frankly, Arial's humble to a damn fault." He pointed his thumb at Maewood. "I'd have to wrench her arm just to get 'er to admit how much she's done. Ye want to know her proof of deed?" Maewood did a quarter-turn to look at Throdin.
Morsul answered "Humility is a trait which her words have made clear to me. It is a virtue."
Throdin replied "Aye, but luckily I'm not in the runnin' so I can afford to be a tad arrogant. We've fought with the Knights n' the Tears. Ye want proof? Talk to Nanri, current leader of the Knights. Talk to Kormok, leader of the Tears."
Maewood prompted "Throdin...." But Throdin continued.
"Ask 'em what they think of Arial n' the Templars. There's yer proof." Throdin glanced at Maewood. "It's a trick question. Only way ye can judge deeds is by the effect ye have on others." Maewood seemed about to speak, but instead shook her head.
Morsul smiled faintly. "It seems you did indeed bring proof with you."
Throdin replied "Hey, I'm biased. Ye want proof, ask 'er enemies instead of someone workin' fer her. That's me two cents." He then turned around and stepped back.
Morsul then said "I will hear no more."
Maewood turned to Morsul, and briefly bowed her head to Morsul. "My deepest thanks for letting me visit a third time."
Morsul said to Maewood "Knight Arialynn, only one before you has come with proof of such worth. I cannot render my final judgement here. I will need time to consider."
Maewood nodded once. "Light's blessing then, guardian. One day, I wish to ask for your name."
Morsul asnwered "You shall have it before this is over." I thought this rather odd, as I thought Morsul's name was known to all involved. But, I kept my opinion to myself at the time. Maewood bowed her head and turned on her heel. "I am ending my vigil this day. I must consider today's events. Fare you all well." Morsul then departed.
After Morsul's departure, those others who remained had broken up into two unrelated groups of simultaneous conversation that I shall not try to present here, lest the reader be confused.
==Chapter VII: June 20==
The next several sunsets had either been uneventful, or other responsibilities had prevented me from attending. The next sunset during which I was able to attend and was eventful was the end of the twentieth day of the sixth month. On this evening, I arrived early and was arranged as usual, seated with my back to a pillar, facing the road, with tablet, parchment, and pen in my lap, and ink bottle and the holorecorder I described earlier by my side. Morsul took her usual place, standing and facing the road, so she was to my right.
I began the night's conversation with "Miss Morsul, I know I haven't been as faithful in keeeping the vigil as you have. So far, I've seen you tell two people that you couldn't render a final judgment at that time. Were there any others I missed?"
"There are only two so far" she told me.
I nodded. "Thank you. Ideally, I'd be writing about all who came forward, so that history has a clearer picture of the effort you went to to find the Lightbringer's Successor. But, I'll take whatever details I can possibly committ to record." I then paused in thought before looking up at Morsul and asking "How do you want yourself and your quest to be remembered by future generations?"
She replied "I do not care about posterity. How others remember me, if they choose to do so, is up to them. It is not my concern."
I took some casual notes with my pen; as I still did not trust my holorecorder to be perfect at the time. I then set down the pen and thought again. "One of the reasons I've been going to this trouble of committing these events to writing...", I paused, "...is that Lord Uther, when he was alive, inspired many people to follow his example."
"Mine is not an example I wish others to follow." Morsul answered.
I looked up at Morsul and asked "Why is that?"
"I have done terrible things in my time. Know that no Death Knight is innocent. Many did not act of their own accord, but a few did."
I waited for Morsul to elaborate, but when it became clear she would not, I leaned back against the pillar and looked out towards the road while thinking. "You've turned from that path though, yes?"
Morsul answered, "To humans, life is always a journey, a road that one follows, with a grim destination. To a Kaldorei, there are not paths in life. There is only what is."
I was confused by that response, wrote it down with my pen, and then decided to try a different question. "I assume that there came a point where you stopped doing terrible things, am I correct?"
"Yes."
"Can you tell me when that point was, and what convinced you to stop doing terrible things? Or is that too personal a question?"
"It is not a subject I wish to discuss."
"Fair enough" I conceded. "One question on that subject though, if I may: was it Lord Uther who had inspired that change in you? Whether he was or was not, I'll leave the subject be after this question."
"No. Lord Uther was dead long before that time." she replied.
I smirked. "Being dead doesn't seem to have stopped him from inspiring you to find the successor of his legacy." In a more serious tone, I continued. "I want to record the stories of how Uther inspired people, either in life or as a spirit. These stories, too, should be a part of his legacy. The effects he had on the people he came into contact with are important things to remember, I think."
"You could spend an entire human lifetime exploring that subject, and still never be done." Morsul told me.
I laughed softly. "Uncle Mortimer once told me that same exact thing, almost right down to the word." I looked out to the distance again. "If he were still alive, Mortimer Chronicle, that is, he'd probably be right here with me, watching everything. I wasn't originally a historian. I'm descended from the Chronicle line, and I bear the family name, but my most recent direct ancestor who wrote any sort of serious history was four generations ago. 'Uncle' Mortimer is actually a...", I had to stop to recall the details, "...third cousin once removed, I think."
Morsul said of my family history "I imagine that is where the family name comes from."
"Oh, yes. The Chronicle family dates back all the way to the founding of Arathor, which for humans is almost ancient, though I suspect you were alive over in Kalimdor at the time."
Morsul agreed. "If I understand your history well enough, yes, I was."
"The earliest, and the name who started the family line, was known as 'Richard the Chronicler'." I paused for what was actually a minute, but felt longer. "I haven't seen nor heard heard of any of my extended family since the fall of Lordaeron."
"I would not go searching for them, then. You may not like what you find." Morsul stated. "It seems no one is coming this day. I shall end my vigil early. We can converse more if you like next time."
So ended the vigil on the twentieth day.
==Chapter VIII: June 23==
The next evening that I was present for was the twenty-third day of the sixth month, three evenings since the last vigil I was able to attend.
The magess who was present on the thirteenth of the month was present at the Tomb again. She and I were waiting at the Tomb when Morsul arrived. I was arranged as usual. The magess looked over her shoulder at the road, and seemed to be expecting another person to arrive.
When Morsul took her usual standing spot and faced the road, I began the conversation "Morsul, if I may ask, who was with you when Lord Uther gave you his tabard?"
Morsul replied "No one." I wrote this down and stopped to think. Just then, the magess's staff began to pulse with a weak purple glow. The magess closed her eyes for a moment, gripping the staff tightly, then blinked her eyes open.
"Miss, are you okay?" I asked the magess.
The magess ignored me and said "Lirima Morsul, a moment if you will."
Morsul replied "You may speak."
The magess asked "Have you had word from Sir Jaero within the last few days?"
"I have not." Morsul answered the magess. I began writing.
"As I feared." The magess stated.
While writing, I asked "Is there reason to believe that something has happened to him?"
The magess answered me. "He and his men were to make a report to his order several days ago. I am told that a report was never made. Such a lapse is unlike him."
"I see. That does sound like cause for concern." I answered, emphasizing the word 'does'.
The magess continued "So yes, we have reason to believe that something has happened to him. I was asked to bring tidings of this to you, as it was his wish to return, and that occasion too has come and gone. There are efforts to establish contact with his company once again, if they still live, or to ascertain their fate should they have fallen."
"I shall be sad if he has indeed fallen." Morsul said.
The magess exhaled slowly. "Has a request for assistance been put out to help with the search?" I asked.
"Not as of yet. There may well be one soon. Of my own accord, I would say that if Jaero the Grim still draws breath, he will uphold his word and return to you here at this vigil." The magess answered me.
"Who would I speak to about joining?" I asked.
"I do not know. I shall seek an answer and return with it soon." the magess said to me.
"My name is James Chronicle. May I ask your name, Miss?"
Her staff abruptly ceased to glow, then glanced at the tablet, parchment, and other objects I had with me. She then said flatly, "I am Saphyra and an Ambassador of the Kirin Tor."
I bowed my head slightly in respect.
Saphyra bowed her head at Morsul. "That is all, Lirima Morsul."
I wrote down some notes, then stopped to think. We were quiet at the Tomb for the next few minutes. But then I began quoting Richard the Chronicler, "'History is often thought of as a study of the past. But every story that is true came to be because of stories that preceded it, and had a hand in forming the stories that came to follow. History never ends.'" Saphyra raised her eyebrow inquisitively at me. I continued. "It'll be interesting to see what Uther's Successor goes on to do, years from now."
Morsul only said "It seems no one is coming this day. I shall end my vigil early." She then departed.
I said "Light bless you." I then began putting away my possessions, and checked the status of the holorecorder, before putting that away and leaving the Tomb.
So ended the vigil on the twenty-third day.
It is worth noting that while the conversation of the Tomb that sunset is recorded faithfully, here, my quotation of my ancestor Richard was recalled from my own memory, and I quoted him incorrectly at the Tomb that evening. The reader may find the correct quote on the inside cover of this book, or the inside cover of any Chronicle ever published by my family.
==Chapter IX: July 7==
Due to other responsibilities I was bound to, I was kept away from sharing the vigils of Lirima Morsul for a fortnight. I was, however, able to arrive at the Tomb early, before sunset, on the seventh day of the seventh month. I had arranged myself as usual.
A man dressed as a paladin arrived on the Tomb on horseback. He raised a brow at me and his gaze rested on me as he slid from his horse. He dismissed the animal, then offered a slight bow to me. "Good evening, sir. I trust you're here in regards to the heirloom as well?"
"I am. My name is James Chronicle. I'm here as a historian." I replied.
"A pleasure to meet you, James. I go by the name of Rheyl Veracus." He said.
I bowed my head. "Lirima Morsul should be here soon. It's almost sunset."
"I did make it a point to be here somewhat early." Rheyl stated.
"Probably wise." I agreed. I then dipped my pen in ink and bgean casually writing some notes, then set my pen down and waited.
Rheyl leaned back against the pillar, raising both hands to cover his mask as he takes a deep breath. He relaxed slightly, taking a step forward. "It has been far too long since I've been here, I must say. I'm slightly nervous, to tell the truth."
I glanced at Rheyl, then tried to think. "I suppose the only advice I could give, is to just respond with whatever comes to mind naturally." I then shrugged.
"I had planned to. I just, I don't know. It will be odd to actually talk to someone face to face that was actually there." Rheyl responded.
"Where do you mean, specifically?" I asked.
"Icecrown Citadel is what I mean. Someone who was there when the Lich King fell."
"Ah, I see."
Rheyl offered a slight shrug, glancing to his left. "I clearly wasn't there, I have no idea what transpired or anything like that."
"Neither was I." I admitted. Soon after, Morsul arrived. I bowed my head towards her in respect.
Morsul nodded to me briefly, and then turned her eyes to Rheyl. I shook out my wrist gently, and prepared myself to write rapidly.
Rheyl turned his head, glancing at Morsul before turning to face her. He bowed, cleared his throat, stood upright, and quietly said "A pleasure, Morsul. It has been quite some time since our paths last crossed."
"Greetings Rheyl. Have you come to offer yourself as candidate to Uther's Legacy?" Morsul asked him.
"That I have. Well, as much as any man can hope to do so." Rheyl responded.
"Very well. There are two things I require in order to judge your worthiness, two items of proof. The first is proof through words. What words do you offer?"
Rheyl cleared his throat nervously as he glanceed back and forth between Morsul and the statue of Uther. "I suppose all I can offer at the moment, is thanks. Thanks for putting his spirit to rest. There is absolutely no way I can begin to compare myself to such a shining example of a paladin. A shining example of a human, the likes of which the world sees far too rarely. A man who did what he did not because he had to, but it was the right thing to do. The reason I do what I do as an Argent Templar, is so that no one else will have to. I do what I do in hopes of sparing innocents from having to witness the things that I do. I really don't know what else there is to say, to tell the truth." He shrugged weakly.
Morsul responded. "Then that is enough. You say that you act so that others will not. That you act so that others will not have to struggle or suffer. To take such burdens on yourself is noble, and it is a principle which Lord Uther was known for himself. However, I cannot judge you on your words alone. I require proof that you have done some deed which shows your qualities. What proof do you bring with you?"
Rheyl shook his head, glancing downwards. He grasped the front of his tabard gently, offering another faint shrug. "All I have as proof of my deeds, is this. I have worn it since the first appearance of Naxxramas over the Eastern Plaguelands. I used to wear it as a trophy, I suppose you could say. However, now I wear it out of respect for those that gave their life at Light's Hope. Men and women that have done far more than I could ever hope to do, and have given more than I ever can. All I have as proof of any deeds I may have accomplished, is this. The fact that I strive to keep the ideals of the Dawn alive with me every single day. The idea that together, we can deal with anything."
Morsul responded. "You offer proof of your convictions, a reminder of who you are and what you stand for. This is noble as well. We should not forget where we come from and what we fight for."
Rheyl nodded, looking up to Morsul. "Is there anything else that I can provide, Miss?"
"You have provided all that I need. You offer your life in service to others and in memory of the causes for which you lend your hand. There is righteousness in both of these, and thus in you. However, Lord Uther was a man that had more than convictions and a life of service. There was a greatness to him which I do not sense in you. I am sorry, Rheyl. You are not the heir to the Lightbringer."
"I understand, Morsul. I doubt that you will find anyone with the same sense of greatness that he possessed." Rheyl replied.
"Perhaps not...But I believe that the young shall eclipse the old. Or for humans...the new generation shall be greater than that which preceeded it. If this is not true, then I worry for us all."
Rheyl laughed quietly, nodding. "I suppose time will tell in regards to that. I suppose that is why I do what I do, to ensure some sort of normalcy for the general population."
It had started to rain gently, and while my usual spot had some shelter from the rain, the wind and blowing some of the raindrops onto my parchments. I moved myself and my things along the walkway one pair of pillars closer to the statue. Rheyl turned to face the road.
Morsul continued, ignoring the rain. "One will be found..."
Rheyl said "As an Argent Templar, it is my task to deal with threats to our society. Ones that can not be openly confronted on the field of battle. Oh, I am sure, or so I certainly hope."
"Do not be concerned. There are great men who are not heirs to this legacy." Morsul said.
Rheyl looked over his shoulder at Lirima. "Oh, of that I am sure. After all, I do try to be one whenever I can. I am positive that Lord Uther would greatly prefer it if every single paladin didn't run around trying to be him, because then no one would really be living their own life."
"Indeed. I am not searching for another Lord Uther. I am simply looking for a leader to carry on the great deeds he was known for."
Rheyl nodded and looked to his front. "I understand. I am not a leader. A fault I am well aware of and have embraced tightly. If only for one reason. Leading would imply putting others at risk. Something I am not quick to do, at all."
"It is difficult to lead others." Morsul said.
"I am well aware, miss. I have always preferred to make my own decisions. If only so I would be the only one to be put at risk. Either way, everything I said still stands. I do have to thank you for putting him to rest. There's no way that would have happened as long as he was trapped within that cursed blade."
"Uther was not a man who was ever satisfied enough to rest. Even now, I do not believe he is resting."
Rheyl nodded and fidgeted uneasily, glancing upwards at the sky. He spoke quietly. "For the sake of us all, again, I certainly hope so." He then turned to look down at the path.
I stopped writing, and shook out my wrist. I remember thinking that I would be very glad when I could trust my holorecorder enough to spare my wrist the strain. I continued to hold my pen ready, though, just in case. But, when nothing was said, I put the pen down.
Morsul then looked over her shoulder at me. "Did you have questions for me?"
Rheyl, confused, thought the question was directed at him. "Me? No, none at all Miss."
"Not you... him." Morsul said, indicating me.
Rheyl cleared his throat and nodded. "My apologies."
I looked up at Morsul, paused to think, then grinned. "Not that I can think of. I've noticed you tend to be a woman of few words."
"Very well." Morsul said.
I continued, though. "In all seriousness, though, not seeing what you have seen, heard what you have heard, nor felt what you have felt, it's difficult to know the right questions to ask."
"I have seen much, heard much, and felt much. To recount it all would be tiring even for me."
"To cover the entire span of your life, that's understandable." I admitted.
"Especially for a kal'dorei such as yourself." Rheyl added.
"I would like, though, to record everything you have seen, heard, and felt relating to your quest. 'An understanding of our past helps us to shape our future.' That's something my Uncle Mortimer told me, when I visited him in his libraries, once."
"You have asked of that before, and have recorded my interactions here." Morsul pointed out.
"I have, but the details for the things I have not witnessed, myself, are sparse." I paused. "I just thought of something. When I'm done with the first draft, I'll show it to you, Morsul, and you can tell me things you would think fit to add to it." I then smiled at Morsul.
"As you wish." Morsul said.
"Thank you" I replied.
"And I will end my vigil here for today. I shall return tomorrow. Farewell."
"Light bless you" I said. I then put away my things, and checked my holorecorder. Satisfied that it had captured the events of the evening, I put it away as well, and left.
So ended the vigil on the seventh day of the seventh month.
==Chapter X: July 8==
While the area around Uther's Tomb is somewhat safe, the surrounding graveyard of Sorrow Hill is still quite dangerous due to the lingering influences of the Scourge, even without the Lich King driving them, anymore.
At sunset of the eighth day of the seventh month, this fact became quite evident, yet again, as I was driving my chopper along the road through Sorrow Hill from Chillwind and came across a female draenei shaman. She was fighting four skeletons, and losing, the wounds rapidly seeming more grave with each blow and each passing second. Up until I saw her, I was of a mind to avoid the undead on my way to the Tomb, and I wasn't wearing either of my sets of combat gear at the time, either Light or Arcane. But upon seeing her, I knew that she would perish if I didn't stop to help.
For the vigils at the Tomb, I always chose to dress humbly, which meant my ordinary town clothes. I immediately regretted that decision for this instance. Thankfully, my sword and shield were ready at-hand, but fighting undead while wearing ordinary town clothes is not an experience I recommend to anyone if they can help it.
Also thankfully, I had been meditating upon the Light during my journey to the Tomb that day. The first thing I did was to heal the draenei's wounds so that she would be more likely to survive. While she was fighting a losing battle, she was competent, so it was a slowly losing battle without my intervention. My tending to her wounds bought her a lot of valuable time we both needed to save her life.
I then consecrated the ground to damage the undead, followed by swinging my sword into the nearest undead I could hit. The shaman, no longer needing to heal herself, focused on taking down another skeleton. Between the two of us, we dispatched the skeletons that had almost killed her.
"That was close. Are you okay?" I asked.
"Yes, thank you." She replied.
I sighed in relief. "I recommend getting to safety before resting."
She laughed and said "Thank you" again.
I got back in my chopper, securing my sword and scabbard separately, and continued on to the Tomb. When I got there, Morsul was already waiting in vigil.
I seated myself in my usual spot, placed my sword and shield and my lap, and examined them. Taking out a rag, I wiped off traces of the undead from the sword. "I came across an adventurer on the road, near here. A female draenei." I pointed vaguely to the west where I had just come from. "Almost died to the skeletons in the area, a few more than she could handle."
"It is good that you came across her then." Morsul said.
I put away my sword and shield, and then started getting my usual items for these vigils: copper writing tablet, parchments, pen, ink, and the holorecorder. "Indeed." I said, then paused. "...and if Uncle Mortimer were here, he'd be berating me on why I didn't ask her name." I sighed and shook my head. After a minute, I had finished arranging myself, as usual. "So far, I've only been present to witness two candidates who you told that you couldn't make a final judgment. Does that count remain the same?"
"It does." Morsul answered.
I nodded, then said "How much longer do you think you will be keeping these vigils before making a judgment?"
"These vigils will be ending soon."
"And of the two you are considering, how difficult do you think it will be to choose?" I asked
"I cannot say." Morsul answered.
I gazed out at the landscape ahead of us. "What do you think about, during these quiet times? Or is that private enough that you would prefer not to discuss it?"
"I think about nothing." Morsul said.
I looked up at Morsul curiously and asked "Nothing other than the task you've set for yourself? Watching out for whoever approaches?"
"Indeed."
"You've got a more disciplined mind than I, then." I complimented her.
"Perhaps. But I have had much time to think about many things." Morsul said.
"Ah, of course. That does make sense. It never occured to me to imagine that, if I lived as long as you, that I would run out of things to think about." We were quiet for about five minutes, then I asked "When your vigil ends, today, would you like a portal to Dalaran? I haven't offered, before, as it usually takes me a few minutes to concentrate on the arcane, first, if I've been wielding the Light. It's quiet now, so I could begin my concentrations."
"There is no need." Morsul said. I then nodded silently, and resumed gazing out on the landscape.
"I imagine this must be quite boring for you." Morsul commented.
I chuckled, then replied "I don't mind." I then smiled pointed a finger out at the road, and said "Any moment, now, someone could walk right up here, right now, and present a proof so astounding that you would be inspired to make your decision on the spot. I would not miss out on the opportunity to witness that, first-hand, if I can possibly help it."
"That is certainly a possibility." Morsul admitted.
I smiled and said "Indeed, and the story of it would be passed down through the generations. Speaking of, have you ever tried your tounge at being a storyteller?"
"I have told stories before, although not as a profession."
"What about as a teacher?" I asked.
"I used to be an instructor, but not of anything academic."
"What did you use to teach?"
"Weapons."
"All kinds, or particular weapons?"
"All kinds." Morsul answered.
I nodded. Soon after, Silverdawn approached the foot of the steps with a confident gait. She stopped, saluted by placing her fist on her chest, then smiled. I smiled and waved at Silverdawn.
Morsul regarded Silverdawn. "Hmph. You do not need to salute me, suulamin. You know that."
"I was saluting the spirit of a great hero behind you." Silverdawn replied. "This, on the other hand, is for you." SHe then embraced Lirima Morsul in a soft hug, then asked "How are you?"
Returning the hug, Morsul replied "Quite well."
Silverdawn smiled, then asked "Who are we expecting?"
Morsul answered "Whoever shows up, if anyone."
At that moment, a human man, casually dressed, arrived, and spoke "Howdy there. You the ones puttin' Uther's tabard up for grabs?"
"I am, so to speak." Morsul stated. Silverdawn merely cast a sideways glance at Morsul.
The man continued. "Oh good. Then I'm in the right place. I'll just sit on the steps if ya don't mind." He then, indeed, seated himself on the side of the steps.
"As you wish." Morsul said.
I spoke up, then. "Miss Morsul has been kind enough to tolerate my presence, thus far. I'm James Chronicle."
"Nice to meet ya, James" was the man's only reply.
"What is your name?" I asked.
The man replied "Me? I'm... a long story." He then smirked.
I was not content to let him be evasive without some challenge. "Excellent! I'm a historian, I can start writing." I then grinned.
He dodged the matter. "So you in the running, or just keepin' the steps warm?"
"I'm here *as* a historian, actually. I'm recording the events that I witness." I answered. Silverdawn brushed down her long, plated dress, then leaned back on a heel.
"Events?" The man asked, then looked around. "Somethin' goin' on?"
"Lirima Morsul keeps vigil here each day." I stated. "You asked about Uther's tabard when you arrived, I thought you knew?"
"Yeah, I knew. Didn't figure it was one for the history books though. 'less of course someone gets killed." The man said.
"I should hope not quite so morbid." I said.
"You never know. There's a death knight hangin' around if you didn't notice." The man said, very cavalier.
I cleared my throat. "The 'death knight', here, is Lirima Morsul. She is the one who seeks Uther's Successor."
Silverdawn added in "...and it has been a long search."
The man asked "Haven't found a winner yet then?"
Morsul stated "I would not be here if I had."
The man replied, laughing, "What do you know, it speaks." Silverdawn raised a brow. I merely continued writing.
"So what happens if you don't find the guy? Or girl?" the man asked.
"I will find the heir." Morsul replied.
Silverdawn crossed her arms and sighed. "No one on the horizon."
"I presented myself." The man said, and smirked.
"She means as a candidate for Uther's legacy." I stated flatly.
"Well if it really matters to you all, I could enter my name. Don't think you'd want to give it to me though." The man said.
"Are you a paladin, or otherwise a Knight of the Silver Hand?" I asked.
The man smiled. "Now there's an interesting question. I was a paladin. Once."
I replied "Really?" I then made a minor show of dipping my pen in my ink bottle and continuing writing.
"Yes, really. Though the church wishes it wasn't the case." The man then look at the ground, as though in thought. "Then again, I guess that's true for me too. Ah well. So, am I disqualified?"
Morsul stated "I am afraid so."
"Damn. Guess the tabard won't be gracing my sock drawer after all." The man then chuckled.
"And with that, my vigil, uneventful as it was, comes to an end for today." Morsul stated, and walked down the steps.
"It did not rain, at least." Silverdawn said, then followed Morsul.
I packed away my belongings into my chopper, then mounted it. "Light bless you" I said to the man, though with no warmth, and then rode off to catch up with Morsul and Silverdawn.
Morsul was conversing with Silverdawn as I approached. "What was?" Morsul was asking Silverdawn.
"Even the... suggestion. Oh, you know." Silverdawn replied.
"I do not know." Morsul replied. Silverdawn sighed.
"Right now, I'm resisting the temptation to judge him, myself." I said. Morsul merely chuckled. "Oh, Silverdawn, a moment?" The three of us stopped at the intersection north of the tomb.
"Yes?" Silverdawn asked.
"Once these events are over, I'm going to write up a first draft of these events and show it to Morsul, in case she wants to add anything." I said. "Would you like to see a copy of the first draft, as well?"
Silverdawn began to reply. "Certainly. I adore literature of every s--" But was then interrupted by the man as he walked past the intersection from the tomb.
"No goodbyes or nothing. Just like a deathknight." The man said, then continued walking.
Silverdawn narrowed her eyes. "What an insufferable little...." She then recomposed herself and continued her earlier sentence. "...literature of every sort. So yes. Feel free."
I sighed. "Ignore the idiots. If the library at Lordaeron weren't part of the ruined area, I'd show you examples of idiots my ancestors have had the displeasure, or amusement, to write of. But anyway, I'll give you a copy of the first draft, as well."
"Wonderful." Silverdawn replied.
"The working title is 'Chronicles of the Lightbringer's Successor.' Oh, do you need a portal? It'd take me a few minutes to concentrate on the arcane, but I can offer you one."
"We are quite well without one, thank you." Morsul replied.
"Light bless you both then." I said. I then backed up my chopper carefully, to make sure neither Morsul nor Silverdawn would be hit by the dirt my chopper usually kicks up, then rode away.
So ended the vigil on the eighth day of the seventh month.
==Chapter XI: July 13==
The next vigil of interest I was able to attend was on the thirteenth day of the seventh month, five days later. Morsul and I were at the Tomb, as usual, when a human male paladin arrived on horseback. "Morsul, I believe we have a visitor."
Morsul replied "Indeed."
The paladin slowed his steed to a stop and slowly dismounted. He drew a slow breath and turned his eyes to Lirima. "Lirima Morsul." He bowed his head. "It is good to see you."
Morsul greeted him with "Corran... I was wondering if you were going to show."
"It was not a decision I took lightly. But here I am at last." Corran replied.
"It is good to see you again. How is Gospel?" Morsul asked. The name sounded familiar; I guessed that Morsul was asking about Gospel Lightfaith, but I wasn't sure and didn't want to interrupt.
"She is well. Though a bit unhappy I would not let her accompany me today." Corran answered.
"A shame. I would have liked to see her as well." Morsul said.
"I will deliver your message. No doubt she will enjoy being able to say 'I told you so'. Again." Corran grinned. I smirked silently as I wrote.
Morsul smirked. "But you are not here to catch up on old times, are you? You wish to try to earn your place as heir to the Lightbringer's legacy?"
"Earn?" Corran asked. "I doubt any paladin has earned this right... no matter their deeds... I am here only to speak what I know, and hope it may grant me the chance to carry on his memory. I do not envy you in your task. The symbol you offer has the power to change everything... for better.. or for worse..."
Morsul said "Very well. There are two requirements in order to be judged. First, I require proof of words. Are you prepared to offer your proof?"
Corran took a slow breath. "I am." He gestured. "Please, join me." I merely looked up curiously at Corran at that statement, but continued calmly writing, right up until the moment he vanished into a shimmer I recognized as that of a summons or teleportation. At that, I became mildly alarmed, mostly from surprise, then grabbed my holorecorder just moments before I and Morsul were summoned, as well, leaving my traditional writing implements behind.
Being accustomed to such summons, I recognized it for what it was, arrived on my feet, and quickly reoriented myself. I was just inside the Servant's Entrance to the ruined city of Stratholme. In case contemporary documents don't survive, I call it a ruined city because it has long since ceased to be inhabited by living creatures not affiliated with the Cult of the Damned. Undead still roam some of the streets, despite Arthas's discontinued influence, but none were in immediate view. The buildings, strangely enough, still stand, and various isolated fires still burn.
Corran spoke to Morsul "No doubt you know this place...."
"I know it all too well." Morsul said.
"Stratholme." I said this more for the benefit of my holorecorder, for when I review the recording later, than for conversation.
"Lets not linger on the streets.... The undead have gone for now, but who can say how long." Corran stated.
We all entered the nearby chapel, the only place to remain holy in all of Stratholme.
"You have brought us far from the tomb, Corran. What proof requires such a display?" Morsul asked. While Corran answered, I kept an eye on the door and cast defensive blessings on all three of us.
Corran paused often in his speech. "It was here... the path of the Lightbringer began... even before he was known by all, Uther embodied all three virtues of the Light.... His example is still the standard all paladins strive for.... It was here... Uther was annoited as the first paladin. ...and named head of the Silver Hand. Respect. Even as a priest he had earned it from all, even the Archbishop. The mere mention of his name can inspire men to great feats in their dark hours. There are few in history who can claim the same.... Uther respected his people and stood for them. Because of this... he was respected and loved by the masses. A man so high... could geniunely care for them. I myself, can only claim the respect of my friends and loved ones. To speak for any others would be arrogant."
I opened my mouth to speak, but then closed it again, thinking better of interrupting. Thinking back on it, I'm not entirely sure what I was thinking of saying, but I might have been tempted to say something about how I remembered the respect Uther had from the people of Lordaeron.
Corran continued. "Their respect is honor enough for me." Corran then looked around the chapel once more before nodding. "We still have two places to visit... and Straltholme is no place to stay longer than one should."
"Indeed" Morsul agreed.
We were then summoned to the south end of the bridge between Andorhal and Uther's Tomb.
Corran took a deep breath. "Not exactly fresh air... but better, eh?"
"Indeed." I said. I then poked the holorecorder to make sure it was still working, given that I could not rely on written notes I was no longer able to take. I nodded in satisfaction, then paid attention to Morsul and Corran.
"The ruins of Andorhal behind us..." Morsul observed.
"Sorrow Hill... not far from where we started.... It's believed that Uther fell here. Even his death... was a shining example of our three virtues.... Holding the ashes of his King... standing in the ashes of his kingdom... Uther faced his last trial.... Tenacity is the second of our virtues... I can think of nothing more tenacious than giving ones life in defense of a friends remains.... Many would have left the ashes and fled... Often I wondered if maybe, he should have. You require proof of words then I offer you this. My entire life I have stood between the peoples of the Alliance and those who would harm them. I have devoted my life to being a guardian. Regardless of who you choose... I will continue that role." Corran held Morsul's gaze for a moment then smiled slightly. "The tomb is just up this road.... Let us return there."
Morsul said "Very well." We then began walking towards Uther's Tomb. As we walked, Morsul asked "You said that you often wondered if Uther should have held his ground or fled. What would you have done?"
"I'm stubborn.... It's likely I would have stood my ground and met his fate. And you?" Corran asked in reply.
"It would be a sad way to end such a long life in that manner." Morsul said.
"Indeed... perhaps death grants a wisdom the living lack." Corran said.
By this point, we had arrived at the tomb. I reseated myself and arranged my parchments and tablet on my lap again, though I didn't bother trying to write anything further. Saphyra was at the Tomb, waiting for us.
Morusl continued. "Nevertheless, it is not my way to hold my ground against enemies when I am outmatched, when I can return later to visit a greater wrath upon them."
"Perspective, more likely." Saphyra commented. She then asked "Mistress, you were not holding vigil this evening?"
I answered, instead. "Corran wanted to show Morsul something, elsewhere."
Saphyra asked "Oh? An aspirant for the Lightbringer's Legacy?" I nodded silently in reply.
Corran asked Morsul "What if it were Silverdawn's ashes in the urn?"
"I would not be there were that the case." Morsul answered. "My time in this world will end when her's does." I furrowed my brow and looked at Morsul in confusion. Morsul looked at me and said "I am tired of life, and I have long since wished to enter my eternal sleep. There is only one thing which holds me from it. But we are distracting ourselves." I nodded silently in response.
Corran nodded. "So we are.... The third and final virtue... Compassion. It is not one easily summed up.... Uther's life was again, an example of this. It is our most important virtue... and one that after a long while... was awakened from a long sleep... when I joined with my wife here." Morsul smiled. I assumed Corran was speaking of Gospel. Corran continued. "Uther loved his people.... and dark were the days since his death... For a time, compassion lay almost dormant in me. That time, has passed. And so you have heard my words... Proof, such as it is."
Morsul said "Indeed I have. You have done well in demonstrating the three virtues which define not only paladins, but all good people. Lord Uther epitomized these virtues, as you have shown, and you yourself show how these virtues live in your own life. But it is one thing to speak of these virtues, it is another thing entirely to act upon them. Thus there is a second proof required, proof of deed."
"Proof of deed then." Corran answered. He then laid a battered libram at her feet, it's cover creased and corners worn with age. "I received this when I was apprenticed to the Order.... It has been at my side ever since." He then drew the large sword from the scabbard on his back and laid it on the steps also in front of Morsul. "Each dent... each notch... was earned standing my post. There will be more added in future days... no doubt. I would lay my heart at your feet if I thought it possible.... Since I cannot... you must judge for yourself if what I say this day is true." He then took off a ring from his hand and set it on the cover of the libram. "All that I am... lays at your feet Lirima Morsul.... I can think of no other proof." I wrote a casual note to remind myself of what objects he laid at Morsul's feet.
Morsul then spoke. "Very well, Corran.... First, take your wedding ring and replace it on your hand. That is something that you cannot give away, nor could you give away your heart. Your military prowess and presence is well known to me, and you have presented ample enough proof. But know this. The three virtues which you espouse apply to more than just your service, they apply to every aspect of your life, and most importantly to the ones you love. Your fervor has not been easy on Gospel. No matter what heights you aspire to, no matter what greatness you may achieve, never forget her. She is a source of strength greater than any you alone can possess. As for the proof you have provided... what you have presented here today is sufficient. You show that spark of greatness which I have sought in many and found in few. I will need time to meditate upon this, though, before passing final judgement. By the end of the week, I will summon all remaining candidates to me, here, at this tomb, and make my final decision."
"Light be with you in your decision. The tabard can inspire men to do great things... or terrible ones." Corran said.
"It is not the tabard which inspires. It is the one who will wear it. Now, unless there is any further business, my vigil is done for this day." Morsul stated. I then began to pack away my items.
Corran said "Choose well Lirima Morsul."
Morsul replied "I shall do exactly that, Corran Ravencrest. Give my regards to Gospel. And I shall see you by the end of the week, I hope."
"Farewell Death Knight." Corran responded. He then let out a long sigh and sat himself on the steps. I stood up, bowed, then began securing my possessions in my chopper.
Saphyra then asked Corran "A question, good Knight?"
"Then ask" Corran answered.
"I am curious what you drew Lirima away with." Saphyra said. I left at that point, so I did not hear the remainder of the conversation.
So ended the vigil on the thirteenth day of the seventh month.
==Chapter XII: July 14==
The next evening, I was again at the Tomb, arranged as usual. Also waiting at the Tomb was a male dwarf death knight whose name I did not know at the time, but was later told went by the name Abhorrence. He was lying down nearby; he shifted occasionally, so I knew he wasn't dead (again).
Morsul arrived a bit later than usual, about 16 minutes after the hour. I bowed my head in respect towards Morsul, and then spoke. "After your vigil, yesterday, I checked the integrity of the recording crystals in my equipment." I gestured to the holorecorder. "Thankfully, it got everything for prosterity, as usual. But, I'm hoping we con't have any more applicants who feel the need to whisk us away to someplace else." I then chuckled softly.
"Indeed. Yesterday's entry was...troublesome." Morsul replied.
After that, we were quiet for a good long while, holding silent vigil for about 15 minutes, when Morsul said to me "I am not expecting anyone to come today, if you were wondering."
"Mmmm, I was wondering, thank you for telling me." I said. "Still, anyone might show up unannounced. Early on, for a brief while, I was tempted to put my own name in. But, I doubt that Lord uther would want someone who picked the path of the Silver Hand as a second career to be heir to his legacy." I chuckled softly, then held the copper tablet in my lap with both hands. "Besides, I think I've come to realize that I'm heir to a different legacy, those who record legacies." I then released the tablet and folded my hands on top of the tablet and parchments.
"If it brings you any comfort, I doubt you would be the heir in any case." Morsul said to me.
I chuckled. "You're probably right." I then continued in a more curious tone. "If it's not too personal a question, what does 'sulamin' mean? I think I've heard you address Silverdawn as such."
"That is between myself and her." Morsul answered.
"Fair enough. Have you decided, yet, where or how you will first announce your final decision?"
"I will announce it here, at the end of the week most likely. ...and I shall end the vigil here. There is no one coming today."
"Light bless you." I said, then packed away my things. Abhorrence was still lying down.
It was a relatively uneventful vigil.
==Chapter XIII: July 15==
The next evening, I was at the Tomb, arranged as usual. I bowed my head as Morsul approached. Morsul took up her usual position at the top of the steps and facing the road.
"I should really bring a book to read to these vigils." Morsul quipped.
I laughed. "I would have brought one for you, had I suspected. Sadly, all I have on me are written notes from previous vigils."
"Quite alright." Morsul replied.
"If it would help pass the time, I could tell you a story about one of my associates, one that I'm fairly certain he would tell freely to anyone who would ask him in person."
"If you wish." Morsul said.
I took an extra breath, then began. "His name is Rhobuun of Argus. A Draenei. He's one of the uncorrupted Eredar who escaped with the Prophet Velen from Argus ages ago. He also used to be a Vindicator, but much more recently became a shaman. Before I go on, a bit of background: how familiar are you with the story of Farseer Nobundo?"
"Not very." Morsul admitted.
I nodded. "After the battle of Shattrath City, when it fell to the original Horde, a corruption began to afflict the Draenei. This corruption deformed them, and turned them into what are now known as The Broken. Nobundo was one of those afflicted.
"In the early days of that particular corruption, there was a fear amongst the Draenei that the corruption might be contagious. Consequently, the Broken were forcibly segregated from the unaffected Draenei to protect the unaffected. Vindicator Rhobuun was one of those who enforced, and believed in, the segregation.
"Amongst the effects of this corruption, the Broken became unable to touch, wield, or draw upon The Light. Nobundo tried for quite some time to reach out to The Light again. Instead, during Nobundo's attempts, the elemental spirits spoke to Nobundo, instead. They guided Nobundo south, from Zangarmarsh to Nagrand, and it was there that Nobundo learned the ways of shamanism, the ways that the Orcs had recently abandoned. Nobundo returned to his people, the Draenei and the Broken. I'm a little less clear on the details following, but at some point, the Prophet Velen, in his wisdom, gathered some of the surviving Draenei people to Telredor and encouraged Nobundo to speak before them. It was at Telredor that Nobundo gave a speech, now famous amongst the Draenei, where Nobundo told them the first thing the elemental spirits had told Nobundo:
"Everything that is, is alive.
"Vindicator Rhobuun was present at Telredor that day, and heard Nobundo's speech firsthand. As Rhobuun tells me, it was during the speech that Rhobuun, and many other Draenei with him, came to realize what wrong the unafflicted Draenei had done in segregating the Broken and being so prejudiced agaisnt the Broken. As a form of his own personal penitence, Rhobuun gave up his position as Vindicator and took up the path of the shaman, seeking to learn from the Broken and from the wisdom of Farseer Nobundo. Rhobuun is still a firm beleiver in The Light and espouses it's virtues, of course. But it's also his opinion that a communion with the elemetal spirits is not in conflict with the precepts of The Light.
"And so he goes on, an adventurer as I am, helping people whenever and wherever he can. The aid of the elements are his tools, now, but both the elements and The Light guide his conscience and choices."
I leaned back against the pillar I was sitting near, and rested.
"A fine story." Morsul commented.
"Like I said, I can't take credit for it. It's what Rhobuun has told me about himself." I said.
We waited in silence for a few minutes more, then Morsul said "A slow day here...."
"True." I replied. "But one never knows what opportunities for learning even a slow day will present."
"I do not believe anyone is coming, and thus I shall end the vigil early today." Morsul stated. I nodded silently in reply. "Thank you for the story."
"You're welcome." I said, then began packing away my things.
So ended the vigil on the fifteenth day of the seventh month.
==Chapter XIV: July 16==
The following evening, I was at the Tomb, arranged as usual. I bowed my head in respect as Morsul approached. "Will your announcement be here at sunset, tomorrow?"
"Yes." Morsul answered.
Most of the vigil was silent and uneventful. Late in the vigil, I commented "Seems like another quiet vigil."
"The last of my quiet vigils." Morsul replied. I nodded silently.
Towards the end of the vigil, however, a human male arrived, and Morsul said "At the final hour, and it seems we may have a visitor."
But, the man stopped along the road, close enough that Morsul and I were able to see him approach, but far enough away that I couldn't see him over the crest of the hill. The hill leading up to the Tomb doesn't have any dips in it, but there is a large bump that the road goes over, such that one at the steps of the Tomb cannot see a man kneeling at certain spots along the road to the Tomb. It was in such a spot that this man was kneeling. I put aside my tablet, parchments, pen, and ink; picked up my holorecorder, and walked down the road to get a closer look.
Once I was close enough, I could see that he was dressed in the raiment of the Scarlet Crusade. Satisfied that he was simply kneeling, I returned to the Tomb and said to Morsul "A human male, kneeling, facing towards us."
"Indeed. He has visited once before." Morsul said.
"Has he? I don't remember. Probably a good thing, then, that I record these things."
"If he is content to wait there, then he may wait too long. My vigil has ended." Morsul said, then started walking down the road. I packed away my things, placed the holorecorder in my vest, mounted my chopper, and drove down the road towards Morsul and the man. Morsul had stopped, and it seemed that they were talking prior to my approach.
The man sighed, and said "Your vigil is over, and I will not bar your way. I am not worthy of your boon. Nor would I make any attempt. I came tonight to pay tribute, to Uther, and to those who came before me. Those who have fallen."
Morsul said "Then you may do so. Uther's Tomb awaits, and he welcomes all."
"And yet, I find myself unable to walk any further." The man stared at the ground between himself and Morsul. He then looked up suddenly. "Lirima Morsul, you were visited in weeks past by Jaero the Grim. As was I, in a way."
"Indeed, he visited many times. I have long awaited his return, but I cannot wait any longer." Morsul said.
"If he fails to find his way here by tomorrow, I fear he has fallen to the Forsaken. Should his gambit succeed, he will bring the proof you seek in the eleventh hour." The man said.
"Very well. Should he find me before I render my final judgement at sunset tomorrow, I will hear him." Morsul said.
The man seemed to be having trouble keeping his facial expressions composed. "I..." He faltered in his speech and frowned. He then removed his tabard and tossed it onto the ground. His shoulder plates and hauberk soon followed. He then looked Morsul in the eyes.
Morsul said to the man "You need not say anything. It is not I who must hear your words."
"No. Such as I am, I go to atone for my past. Your eyes are sharp, and your heart... such as it is... has shown more of the virtues I was oathsworn to uphold than my order has in many seasons." The mad replied, then grimaced.
"Mine are not the virtues I would see any take up. I am a cursed creature. You bear sins for which you may not be forgiven, but you are not as cursed as I. The Tomb awaits. You should pay your respects and confess your sins there, to whoever might hear you."
"I will not go. If I am worthy, I will live through the wrath of such cursed souls. Good bye, Lirima Morsul."
"Farewell." Morsul said. The man ran off towards a distant crowd of rambling undead. I merely scratched my head in confusion. "And so it ends."
"I will see you tomorrow, then." I said.
The man could be heard in the distance, letting out a battle scream. I watched him from afar for a moment, to assess his status. Satisfied that he wasn't going to get himself killed, I left.
==Chapter XV: July 17, The Decision==
I arrived at the Tomb at, what for previous vigils, would have been my usual early time, and was surprised to find a crowd gathered before the Tomb. Morsul was standing in her usual place, and was obviously hearing Jaero as a candidate. I quickly parked my chopper, grabbed my pack, ran over to my usual spot at the pillar left of Morsul, and began rapidly arranging myself as usual.
I shouldn't have bothered. reviewing my notes and recording afterwards, my holorecorder was more useful than my written notes. But I digress.
At the point in the conversation where I had arrived, Jaero next said to Morsul "This, I believe, having known him well, is something Uther would strive for himself. Too much blood has been shed in these lands. Hearthglen will bow to the Argent Dawn. There is a way to do so with respect on both sides. With compassion. If you consider this adequate proof, I would see these deeds done unto my dying breath. Thus, I submit myself to you, and to the spirit of Uther himself, who gifted you with his emblazonry. Such as I am." Jaero then kneeled before Morsul.
Morsul then said "You have spoken at length of your virtues as a member of the Silver Hand, and the efforts you have taken to prove yourself worthy of carrying on the legacy of the Lightbringer, a knight who you once fought alongside. Uther's light has surely illuminated your life with a unique understanding of both him and his legacy. The proof you have provided is sufficient. Rise, Jaero. You have proven yourself worthy along with the three other remaining candidates."
"Thank you for listening to my words, my lady." Jaero said. He then stood and bowed before Morsul.
"I shall medidate for these last few minutes, before passing final judgement." Morsul annoucned. She then walked over to the statue and knelt before it.
There was some smalltalk amongst the crowd, which I make no attempt to record here. However, three of the four final candidates were present: Arialynn Maewood, Taldrus Dawnfield, and Jaero the Grim. Many other members of the Alliance were also present, but I also noticed amongst the crowd a few of the Horde who bore the markings of the Tears of Draenor, including orc known as Kormok.
After a few minutes, Morsul returned to her usual place at the top of the steps. The crowd became quiet and attentive.
"I see among us Taldrus Dawnfield, Arialynn Maewood, and Jaero the Grim. There is a fourth however, who is not here. Corran Ravencrest is the final remaining potential. We shall allow him a few minutes to arrive. However, if he does not arrive soon, then we shall be forced to proceed without him, unfortuntely. In the meantime, there are others who have joined us, and more still who have promised their presence here today. Guests who wish to witness this event..."
The crowd returned to smalltalk, which again, I don't attempt to record here as it was far too varied. After another few minutes, though, Morsul again spoke aloud.
"Sir Corran Ravencreast is not here. It is with regret that we must proceed without him. I have for many weeks now held vigil at this very tomb every evening, awaiting any who wish to present themselves as candidates to Lord Uther the Lightbringer's legacy. I have heard from dozens of aspirants, almost all paladins if great worth, who espoused with great fervor the virtues which define the very word Paladin. To all who despair in these dark days, take heart. The heart of heroes lives in many, and beats strong. However, it was my task to seek among these many the few who have within them that spark of leadership and greatness which set apart Lord Uther from those who followed him. I expected to find only one or two at most. Instead, I found four.
"But before we introduce them, I wish to speak of one topic which was a greater curiousity to me than any other in this competition. Almost without exception, every entrant spoke of the reverence with which the held the Lightbringer. They spoke of how they could never hope to equal his deeds, or be as great a man as he. To hear a Kaldorei or a Draenei speak such words would not surprise me. But to hear those words from the lips of humans, dwarves and sindorei alike surprised me, for it seems you do not understand your greatest strength. Mortality. That the old must die and give way to the new. I envy you all. You are a people who are blessed with the gift of surpassing the generations before you. Each child is destined to surpass their parent. And so will their child, and theirs, and with each descendent, will their deeds and work grow greater. You are not burdened with the lives of those who came before you, only the legacy of their deeds and the expectation to do even better.
"And so when those paladins came to me expressing that they could never hope to surpass Lord Uther, I was surprised. It would be a shame for Lord Uther to not be surpassed by his successor. And thus it was my difficult task to find those few with the potential to do just that.
"Know this: Despite my decision here today, all four of these paladins have it within them to be a greater paladin than Lord Uther the Lightbringer ever was. Take heart. There are heroes who walk among us. Of those four, three are here today.
"Taldrus Dawnfield, step forward."
Dawnfield stepped forward, stopping at the bottom of the steps.
"Taldrus, you presented to me words that espoused your faith, and the good work you do in growing the Church of the Light. You said that the Circle of The Holy Light will become a source of inspiration and guidance, a bastion of hope for years to come. In my eyes, it already has.
"Arialynn Maewood, step forward."
Maewood also stepped forward, also stopping at the bottom of the steps.
"Arialynn, you brought with you few words, but you inadvertantly brought something even more significant: The trust and loyalty of friends, and the respect of your enemies. Through long years of service, you have worked tirelessly for the betterment of not only Azeroth, or the Alliance, but most importantly the people who look up to you the most: Your comrades. You truly inspire those around you to be greater than themselves.
"Jaero the Grim, step forward."
Jaero also stepped forward, also stopping at the bottom of the steps. They now stood in single-rank; Maewood on the left, Dawnfield in the middle, and Jaero on the right.
"Jaero, your long years of service to the Knights of the Silver Hand, fighting alongside Lord Uther himself, is worthy of great respect on its own. Even as you face your own mortality, you strive to do great things, and leave your mark on the world. Within you lives the tenants of respect, tenacity and compassion in a way that is akin to Lord Uther himself.
"And finally, although he is not with us here today, Commander Corran Ravencrest has proven his own meddle a thousand times over on the battlefield. He is a warrior and leader of great prowess and furor, who shall be fighting for the Alliance long after this day is over.
"However it is among these three that I must now choose the heir to the Lightbringer's legacy. This was not an easy choice to make. Know that what I bestow this day is a lifelong commitment, and a challenge: To make the task of choosing the next bearer of this Legacy, many years from now, even more difficult."
Morsul then paused, and looked at the three candidates before her. Her gaze then rested upon Arialynn Maewood. "Arialynn Maewood, step forward."
Maewood walked partway up the steps, and came to a slow halt before Morsul.
"In the end, it was the testimony of those who served with you who provided me with the final wisdom needed. Through your years of service, your tireless dedication to the principles which all paladins hold themselves to, and your capacity for greatness. It is with great pride that I bestow upon you the honor of being named the Heir to Lord Uther the Lightbringer's Legacy, and the bearer of the Lightbringer's tabard from this day forward."
Morsul then pulled out Lord Uther's tabard, held it aloft, and presented it to Arialynn. Arialynn bowed her head, and said "I thank you, and honor those who stand behind me today, and days past."
The crowd began to applaud for Maewood, and one man could even be heard screaming "GO ARIALYNN!!!! WOO!!!"
Morsul said to Maewood "Wear it proudly, and remember my challenge, Arialynn. The burden upon you now is greater than ever."
Maewood stepped forward and took the tabard. She paused as she held it outwards, almost at arm's length. She then looked up to Morsul before drawing back her plate hood.
Silverdawn was close enough that I could hear her say "I don't think I've ever seen her without that helm."
Morsul stepped aside, offering her usual standing spot to Maewood. Maewood silently stepped into Morsul's place, took off her guild tabard, and slowly, carefully replaced it with the Lightbringer's tabard. She then buckled her plate belt over the fabric.
With the crowd still applauding, Morsul announced "It is with pride that I present to you Arialynn Maewood, the Lightbringer!"
Dawnfield kneeled and cried out "Long live Arialynn Maewood, the Lightbringer!" Many more of the crowd also kneeled before Arialynn.
The man who had previously screamed "Go Arialynn" now yelled out "PARTY AT THE MUG TONIGHT IN HER HONOR!"
Maewood looked out at the crowd and said "We will not continue going forward by kneeling down. I thank you all, and Light be with you. I look to the coming days with hope." She then nodded once and lifted one hand. "Rise, we are equals in the Light's blessing. I did not prepare a speech. But if there is every a call or need of me, know that I will answer. I go forward with the same sense of purpose, and hope. If you wish to follow tonight, or a night to come, I will always accept a new companion beside me." She then draped her Templar tabard over her gauntleted forearm, and nodded once. "Light's blessing, to all present and not present tonight."
Jaero then said "May the Light watch over you."
Maewood then nodded at Jaero and said "There is great power and heroism in this world, and in those who stand here." She then drew her hands into a fist over the emblem on the Lightbringer's tabard and closed her eyes. A brilliant flash of light then radiated from the Lightbringer's tabard, that seemed to sustain itself for some time. "Go forward, and never look back!"
The crowd applauded anew. The strange man with the strange yells then said "Oh, I think she's hit critical mass."
Morsul then said "And thus I am relieved of my burden. Come, this is reason to celebrate."
I picked up my holorecorder and checked it's status. Satisfied, I then packed away my things, got on my chopper, and drove down the road where Silverdawn and Morsul had walked. They were already in conversation; SIlverdawn sat in a saddle on her steed. I shut off the engine once I was close enough.
"Relieved, at last." Morsul said.
"We had a few mouthy idiots. But it went well." Silverdawn said.
"That is not why I am relieved." Morsul replied.
"Oh." Silverdawn said.
"It was a burden to carry it..." Morsul said.
"The decision was difficult?" Silverdawn asked, then interrupted herself as Maewood approached; the Tabard of the Lightbringer was still shining. "One moment."
Maewood's attention, however, was on another woman. "It is a glorious day, Sorobin. It has been long since we heard from you."
The one called Sorobin answered "It's a long story. I was just coming from buying a horse at the Argent Dawn. Much has changed."
Silverdawn then waved at Maewood. "Elune'adore, Lady Maewood."
Maewood looked up at Silverdawn and answered "Light be with you, sister. I do not know your name."
"Everyone knows your name after today. I'm Silverdawn." Silverdawn bowed politely in her saddle.
Arialynn briefly bowed her head. "Names are but one thing. An honor to meet you, Silverdawn."
Silverdawn smiled. "I hope to hear great things of you in the coming years, lady Maewood."
The Tabard of the Lightbringer finally stopped shining of it's own accord, to which Maewood seemed to exhale with relief. It was rather bright. She then answered Silverdawn "The same, Lady Silverdawn."
I then got off my chopper and said to Maewood "When Throdin spoke so highly of you that day, I had a feeling it would be you. It is an honor to be in your presence, Lightbringer." I then bowed at the waist.
Silverdawn grinned softly, then said to Morsul "You've done well."
Morsul answered "I only chose the brightest of three lights...nay, it is Arialynn who has done well to shine so brightly."
Maewood nodded once to Silverdawn, then looked at me. "You are a scribe, yes? You spent much time writing while we gathered and spoke."
"I am James Chronicle. Pleasure to make your acquaintance."
"An honor. If I can make only one request, have it be that all present here today is noted." Maewood asked.
"I would not do otherwise, I assure you, Lightbringer." I said. Maewood nodded once, a hint of a smile on her lips. "I'm beginning work on the Chronicles of the Lightbrigner's Successor, and I will try my best to document what I have witnessed and have been able to learn secondhand."
Just then, the man of the strange yells walked up to Maewood and asked "Hey, Aria. Guess what time it is."
Maewood blinked and looked at the man and asked in confusion "Time?" Maewood clearly seemed to know the man, and seemed more confused as to his question.
The strange man then called out "NOOGIE TIME!", grabbed Maewood in a headlock, and playfully mashed her hair with his fist. Maewood gave a brief laugh, then stepped nimbly aside out of the grip, and the man ran off. Maewood then said to me "Have that recorded as well."
I chuckled. "As you wish, Lightbringer." I then looked to Morsul and Silverdawn. "Morsul, Silverdawn, I'll try to show you the first draft as soon as I'm done writing it, but it may take some time. I have a lot of notes to sort through."
Silverdawn nodded at me. "Don't hesitate to ask if you require help. I don't mind annotating, so to speak."
Somewhere nearby, the irreverent man from July 8th was saying to a female kaldorei "Wonder where those greenskins went."
"Left, looks like." The kal'dorei replied.
The irreverent man replied "Well good. They better stay in their holes this time."
Maewood overheard this, and interjected. "Careful how you speak of an enemy. I have fought Kormok Wraithverge on the battlefield, and our enemy does not hide in holes."
A female dwarf paladin wearing the tabard of The Templars of The Rose added "He'd be far too big to, anyways."
The irreverent man said "Well well, not one hour since being raised and you're already barking orders." I merely arched an eyebrow at him.
Maewood shook her head. "Take it as you will. Battles are not won with words about the enemy."
"Best you remember that." The irreverent man replied.
"I will." Maewood stated, then carefully folded her Templar tabard over her forearm once more, and slowly looked over the crowd.
"Good. Next time don't stick up for an orc in my backyard." The irreverent man stated.
"I only acknowledge an enemy for what it is." Maewood said.
Sorobin pushed to her feet, eyed over the stump at Aaryn, and said "Goodness."
The dwarf paladin wearing the Templars tabard said to Aaryn "Go complain somewhere else." The irreverent man walked off.
Silverdawn then asked "Who was that man?"
Morsul replied. "Leave him be. He was bitter when he approached me for the first time. His anger is directed only at himself."
Silverdawn then said "Oh, is he from-- Goodness. Wasn't that weeks ago?"
Morsul answered "It was."
"I wouldn't regard his words with any credibility." I said. "When he first came to the tomb during one of Morsul's vigils, he was extremely evasive about his identity."
"Let's not dignify that with further chatter." Silverdawn suggested. Maewood nodded in response, looking in the direction where the irreverent man had gone.
Sorobin said "Don't let him worry you, Ari." Then slapped a hand on Maewood's pauldron.
Maewood then said "I again thank you all, and now I must briefly retire. I believe that High Templar Alekxandar declared festivities at the Mug this evening."
"Indeed he did." Morsul replied.
The female dwarf paladin grinned and said "Don't let them spill anything on you." Maewood looked at her with a smile in response.
Morsul smirked. "I can tell you from personal experience that the tabard is easily cleaned should you spill anything on it." Maewood chuckled.
Abhorrence, who was within earshot, answered "It's beerproof? I shoolda applied. I keep needin' ta change me tabards."
I then asked "I'm not familiar with the names of most taverns. Where is 'The Mug'?"
Maewood replied "It is a tavern in Ironforge, run by many of the Templars, Across the flightmaster. It has been there for some time. It will likely be crowded tonight."
I then said "I'd offer a portal to all present, but I've been weilding the Light most recently, and it would take several minutes of concentration before I could wield the arcane enough to open a portal without killing myself. If anyone desires, I could do so now, but I imagine you all have a faster travel options."
The female dwarf paladin said "It is fine, I only came here to see who would win... and now that she has been chosen, I am heading back home."
Morsul replied "There is no need. I can provide." She then slid a blue and gold locket from her armor used it to open a portal to Dalaran.
Maewood declined, saying "I wish to travel in a slower manner tonight, I wish to feel the wind against my face."
Sorobin added "And... I can't remember how to get to Stormwind, so I'm following Arialynn here."
After that, everyone went their own way, with Morsul, Silverdawn, and myself stepping through the portal into Dalaran.
==About the Lightbringer==
(( Mostly taken from http://www.wowwiki.com/Uther with only very slight adaptations for this fanfiction. ))
Uther was a knight and apprentice cleric to Archbishop Alonsus Faol in the First War, and had been a worshipper of The Holy Light since his youth. Uther met the archbishop when he was simply Bishop Faol, and he served as Uther's spiritual advisor and mentor. The fall of Stormwind made Faol realize that sometimes faith was not enough to combat the evil forces of the world. He decided to create a new order that could fight the enemy with both the gift of Light and martial prowess. He offered Uther a place among them, thus the Knights of the Silver Hand – the paladins were born. At the Alonsus Chapel in Stratholme, Uther became the first of the new order, and their leader. It was a glorious moment for the Alliance and believers of The Holy Light.
Uther participated in some of the bloodiest conflicts in the Second War, including Orgrim Doomhammer's siege of Lordaeron, in which he aided in the victory over the Horde - weakened by Gul'dan's betrayal and the resultant redeploying of forces. He was named "Lightbringer" by Turalyon, a brother paladin and the lieutenant of Anduin Lothar, after the battle of Blackrock Spire.
Uther was on his way to Darrowmere Lake when he was attacked by Alterac pirates, and uncovered a conspiracy which would reveal that Alterac had betrayed the Alliance. Among his other exploits, the Lightbringer led the final assault against the Burning Blade Clan at the Dark Portal alongside Turalyon.
In the years following the Second War, Uther continued to serve as a stalwart knight and protector of the people, settling disputes among men and more violent matters with any threatening creatures. As he became the most elite of the remaining paladins, he began to tutor King Terenas's talented son, Prince Arthas, (who later became the Lich King) in the way of the Light. They became good friends, and knew each other like family.
As the troubles of the Third War first began, Uther was honored that Arthas joined him in defending the town of Strahnbrad from raiding orc renegades of the Blackrock Clan who had eluded capture under the leadership of the deadly blademaster, Jubei'Thos. While Uther defended the town, Arthas engaged the encamped orcs. With Uther's help, Arthas managed to destroy the encampment, and temporarily defeat Jubei'Thos.
Uther was not brought into action again until he was unexpectedly met by Jaina one day. She had come rushing from Hearthglen with news that the town was under heavy attack by the Scourge. Uther rushed to the defense with the Silver Hand at his back, but the town had taken severe damage, and Arthas was barely holding out. Horrified, humiliated, and disturbed by his near-defeat, Arthas quickly left for Stratholme, where he hoped to engage Mal'Ganis. Uther followed him, and they found that Stratholme had been infected with the Plague. Arthas, knowing what that meant, ordered Uther to purge the city. Uther, horrified, refused to do so, at which point Arthas charged him with treason, disbanded the Order of the Silver Hand, and sent him away.
Uther confided in Terenas after Arthas left for Northrend, and together, they decided that Arthas had been compromised, most likely from the stress he endured at Hearthglen, and ordered an emissary to find him and order him to return. Arthas finally did return some weeks later, though he was somehow different. Nevertheless, Lordaeron's capital erupted in festival to celebrate their returning hero. The festivity turned to horror as Arthas proceeded into the throne room and impaled his father on the Runeblade, Frostmourne.
Terenas was ceremonially cremated and ensconced within a magical urn. Uther, dismayed at having lost two friends to the darkness, volunteered to personally guard the urn in Andorhal. The town was raided by Arthas and his undead minions, who sought the magical urn for necromantic purposes. Uther stood against Arthas and his minions, but after an epic battle he was defeated - slain by the hands of his former pupil, whom he loved dearly. Uther's body was recovered after the battle with Arthas by followers of the Alliance and laid to rest in a great tomb, the same tomb where the events of this Chronicle took place.
==About the Lightbringer's Successor==
Arialynn Alis Maewood was born in the countryside of Gilneas. Of Gilneas itself, Arialynn only remembers the rain and the sea. Arialynn did have early childhood friends in Gilneas, who often played and caused mischief, as children are wont to do.
Arialynn left Gilneas in the company of her father when she was four years old. Her father was of the opinion that a nation should not think only of itself, and travelled to follow the story of Lord Uther the Lightbringer and to join the Order of the Silver Hand. Arialynn's mother, a dedicated priestess, intended to follow at some point, but was often ill; she eventually decided that she would not survive the journey, and so stayed in Gilneas up until the Greymane Wall was completed and closed; Arialynn's mother and friends, like many inhabitants of Gilneas, have not been heard of since.
From Gilneas, they traveled north. Arialynn began training as a priestess in the lands of Lordaeron at the age of five, making new friends in her youth. Arialynn's father feared for some time that Arialynn might be as frail as her mother, and so kept Arialynn in training as a priestess. By the age of eight, however, as she grew and proved herself, she began to follow the path of a paladin, taking on a preference for a sword and (when available) a shield.
During her training, Arialynn and her father traveled often throughout the areas today known as the Plaguelands; it was decided that her training, like the training of many young aspiring paladins in her day, was best done among the people of Lordaeron. She became a full-fledged paladin two years before the Third War. She fought alongside her father in the Third War and continued fighting after her father fell in battle.
After the Third War, Arialynn fought under the banner of the Argent Dawn, and then joined an Alliance-chartered order called the Templars of the Rose. She rose quickly through the ranks and became Commander of the Templars, a position she continues to hold until the time of printing of this Chronicle.
==About the Chronicler==
My name is James Chronicle. I was born in born in Lordaeron City, capitol of the Kingdom of Lordaeron, situated in the Tirisfal Glades on the northern coast of Lordamere Lake during the reign of King Terenas Menethil the Second. My mother is a mage of the Kirin'Tor and my father is a blacksmith and engineer, founders of the Chronicle Mageworks and Engineering business, which remains in-business to this day. My brothers, Coriundas and Galarith, were also born in Lordaeron City, 5 and 10 years after myself, respectively. They are both paladins, and began training as such before I did, and much earlier in life than I did.
During the troubles preceding the Third War, we moved southwards several times, finally settling in Stormwind after it was rebuilt. I trained as a mage at the Academy of Arcane Arts and Sciences in Stormwind City, where I got the nickname "Cogitatus". I practiced as mage until the madness of Malygos, who tried to exterminate all mortal magic-users, forced the other Dragonflights to end Malygos's life. Since then, I have practiced both the ways of the mage and the paladin. However, I cannot wield both the arcane and the Light at the same time.
As of the time of printing, no other members of the Chronicle family are known to still move of their own accord, living or Forsaken.