>>6326817

The wooden wheels of the horse carriage clacked on the cobblestone street. Peering through the window you didn't see much, just empty stalls and quickly closed shops. There was tension in the air, like just before a thunderstorm. This time it was both figuratively and literally as dark clouds had started to gather, spelling an end to this unnaturally long hot season.

“Lady Silverthread, we will be there soon.” Lady Nalice said to you. She was sitting opposite of you, casually resting one leg on the other.

“What will happen next? In the City I mean.” You asked her.

“The Stonemasons are going to strike at several key locations while the attention of the military is diverted towards the Keep.” Nalice replied and continued. “Master VanCleef does have a flair for some drama…”

There was a bit of a bump on the road. Who would hold a grand ball right now? Whatever King Varian wanted to announce, it must be very important with all the Kings of the Alliance and remaining Nobles of the City present. You didn't want to know what would be hit next, some barracks? One of the gatehouses? One thing was sure, there would be casualties.

There was a knock on the carriage’s wooden wall, that was the signal that you were close.

Deep breaths Malevus, take deep breaths.

“I am Lady Malevus Silverthread, straighten your back, keep your chin up, think and behave like my mother would.” You muttered to yourself. Your red dress was fine, you looked absolutely perfect.

“You are better than anyone in that building, it is a delusion to think otherwise.” Nalice continued and her regal tone in her voice grew stronger. “They are worms and you are a dragon.”

“Proud like a dragon.” You replied. You did have a single piece of jewelry with you, the ring with coiled snakes you had received from Lady Katrana Prestor.

“Precisely.” Nalice said as the carriage stopped. You were there at the Keep. The door was opened by a guard. “Now go out there, you know what to do.”

You nodded and swallowed all the fears within you while reciting prayers in your head. Carefully holding the long hem of the dress, you stepped out and your bare feet touched the gravel. Today you won't be Malevus, the Paladin in training and squire of Prince Alric Perenolde.

Today you would be Lady Malevus Silverthread, member of a renowned family of couturiers, creator of a very fine dress and the future wife of Prince Alric Perenolde.

1/3

>>6326818

The guard seeing a redheaded elven woman in a red dress carrying a sheathed sword with her left hand backed off. Was he informed who you were? It didn't matter as you straightened your back and started walking. The horse carriage left the courtyard as you kept walking, reaching the stone steps leading to the front door, you let the hem go as now it wouldn't be touched by dirt.

“No weapons allowed.” A clerk said to you rather nervously and avoided his gaze looking away from your eyes.

“You have no power to stop me.” You replied in Thalassian and walked past him full of confidence in yourself.

The clerk did not stop you, but you could feel his eyes staring at your back and bottom. The red dress was working as intended, a modest Silverthread design that revealed way too much of your skin, but was worthy of your last name. The long cut on the left side nearly reached your waist and would reveal your leg and thigh when you were walking, but closed when standing still. The open back continued to the sides and the front of the dress thanks to your tricks stayed on your breasts while still showing the sides. Inside of your mind, you didn't stop repeating the prayers for you were frankly scared near to paralysis.

A pair of soldiers pushed the large door open, allowing you to step into the grand reception hall just beyond the throne room. It was already nearly full of men and women wearing their finest liveries chatting and talking about, none of them of course as good as yours. You could spot several very nice modest dresses worn by some ladies, but the overall theme and fashion here in Stormwind clearly was going a step too far for your tastes.

Dresses and gowns too colourful with unnecessary addons, frills and jewelry. Tunics, suits and coats with sashes, medals and stuffed up collars that forced necks to be straight and up. They were like puppets made to wear all the clothes done for them at the same time. It would have made your mother feel disgusted and turn around and never return.

“My Lady?” Steward asked and swallowed. “My Lady, how shall I announce you?”

“Lady Malevus Silverthread.” You replied to him and continued walking. Good, make your presence known. Let them see some true fashion.

2/3

>>6326819

The Steward announced you like he had done a hundred times before today. At first just a couple of the guests turned to look at you, but then the chatter stopped as more heads turned. You could see their eyes open, men glancing at you and then away, women hiding their mouths with their hands. You had seen this reaction before, when your mother would have had you or one of your siblings wear something new she had made and show it off at some gathering of Quel’thalas nobility. Elven or men, the reaction of awe, admiration and want were all the same.

You kept walking and could hear the mumbling and whispers.

“Who is she? Silverthread?”

“High Elf Lady? Was she the one…”

“By the Light she is beautiful.”

Someone else got announced next and some of the crowd stopped looking at you. That was fine as closer to the throne room you got, you managed to see and spot several people that you knew and were familiar with. Most of them were looking or had already acknowledged you, but who to approach first?


Choose two:
>Jaina Proudmoore was with her father and her little brother? Jaina gently waved her hand to you.
>Prince Kael’thas stood with the Ranger General Lady Sylvanas Windrunner next to him and was watching you.
>Sir Bolvar Fordragon, Lord Uther the Lightbringer and Archbishop Faol were discussing something when Uther's eyes found yours.
>Prince Arthas was with King Terenas and King Trollbane, he had seen you, was he scared?

QM: Time for just two options right now. The dress inspiration picture at the end of last thread.

Welcome to Alterac Resurgent Quest and yet another new thread. As always if you have any questions about the Quest, characters or just for the QM, go ahead and ask them. I will try to answer them the best I can.

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>>6326820
>Prince Kael’thas stood with the Ranger General Lady Sylvanas Windrunner next to him and was watching you.
Obvious. Meet our liege and representative.
>Prince Arthas was with King Terenas and King Trollbane, he had seen you, was he scared?
Diplomacy route. Prince Arthas said words, Malevus said words. Not all things can be taken back, but maybe they can be made softer. Also good time to get a feel of King Trollbane and Strom.

>>6326820
>>Prince Kael’thas stood with the Ranger General Lady Sylvanas Windrunner next to him and was watching you.
>Jaina Proudmoore was with her father and her little brother? Jaina gently waved her hand to you.

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>>6326829

Please no AI slop, definitely not Malevus AI slop, she is way better than that. Besides the picture got so much wrong about her and the dress and everything oh boy the list is long.

QM tells you to cease!

>>6326820
>Prince Kael’thas stood with the Ranger General Lady Sylvanas Windrunner next to him and was watching you.
>Jaina Proudmoore was with her father and her little brother? Jaina gently waved her hand to you.

>>6326820
>>Jaina Proudmoore was with her father and her little brother? Jaina gently waved her hand to you.
>>Prince Kael’thas stood with the Ranger General Lady Sylvanas Windrunner next to him and was watching you.
It is time to make Arthas and Varian life a pain

>>6326820
>Jaina Proudmoore was with her father and her little brother? Jaina gently waved her hand to you.
>Prince Kael’thas stood with the Ranger General Lady Sylvanas Windrunner next to him and was watching you.

Arthas is inconsequential we just need Jaina to back us. And of course we need to talk to Kael and my BAE Sylvanas.

>Prince Kael’thas stood with the Ranger General Lady Sylvanas Windrunner next to him and was watching you.
>Jaina Proudmoore was with her father and her little brother? Jaina gently waved her hand to you

>>6326820
I guess the only end of thread/new thread question I have at the moment, who was the person following Malevus in the street to Bolvar?

Looks like Kael and Jaina. Politics of whats going on, and Jaina which I suppose will be us telling her that Arthas meeting

Nodding to Jaina, you mouthed ‘later’ to her which she seemed to have understood. As much as meeting her and her family could have been useful, there were two other people that you needed to prioritise.

Under the eyes and gazes of the Nobles, you moved past them to where Kael’thas and Sylvanas were standing. They watched as you approached them and waited for you.

“Greetings Prince Sunstrider.” You said to him in Thalassian and did a proper elven curtsy. “Greetings Ranger General Windrunner.”

Malevus would have bowed, but you were Lady Silverthread now and as much as you were a noblewoman, standing in front of you was the heir to your homeland and the overall commander of the defences of the realm.

“Lady Malevus… or should I call you Lady Silverthread?” Kael’thas asked you and seemed relaxed. “To not make you wait, I spoke with Alric this morning. He is more than fine, enjoying a moment of tranquility.”

Sylvanas snorted.

“What a peculiar man, in a jail yet enjoying it?” She asked. “I'd like to meet him.”

Sylvanas was wearing her uniform. Tight trousers, bare midriff, armour barely covering her chest and shoulders. Bow and arrows slung on her back and at least she had taken her hood off, revealing her long golden hair and long ears. She had a reputation of being the most dangerous and at the same time most beautiful woman in Quel’thalas. Though you would disagree, she could use a good dress.

“You would enjoy it too.” Kael’thas replied to her and then looked at you. “My father sent her so that she would for once get out of the forest and meet with people, with actual people and not just her rangers.”

She was to touch grass… I mean touch masonry?

“I am socialising well enough.” Sylvanas replied.

“Yes, by being on your third glass of wine and talking to just me.” Kael rebutted and shook his head in disappointment. Kael and Sylvanas seemed like good friends to speak so informally.

“Ermm… thank you for the help Prince…” You started to say, but got interrupted.

“Just call me Kael, only a few here understand us so we don't need to be so formal.” He said to you and sighed. “What a mess this has been, at least amongst my people I don't want to be a stiff prick.”

Kael glanced at the direction of King Thoras Trollbane. Had they clashed at the meeting? His clothes were more typical of elven, a long robe of red, gold and the violet of Dalaran. Worthy of his status.

“So you are one of Anatreil's daughters? Your mother was a great ranger, shame that she chose clothes and fashion over it.” Sylvanas said to you. “How is she? I haven't seen her in years.”

“I-I haven't spoken to her in… 34 years.” You mumbled back.

“Oh right, I remember, you ran from home didn't you?” Sylvanas continued.

“She went to serve Voren’thal.” Kael corrected. Though Sylvanas was right, you did run away from home several times in fact. Then got sent to Voren’thal.

1/2

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>>6326948

“That old geezer?” Sylvanas asked. “Every time I see him it looks like a stiff wind could make him fall over.”

“He is stronger than he looks.” Kael replied.

“But you, look at yourself. I can see that the apple didn't fall that far from the tree. Same eye for the cloth as your mother had, she was always designing something, making dresses out of leaves and grass while we hunted trolls.” Sylvanas said to you and continued. “And the same red hair, eyes and ears. If I knew Anatreil wasn't here, I could mistake you for young her.”

“T-thanks.” You said and didn't really know what to think of getting compared to your mother.

“Except you are carrying a sword and not a bow.” Sylvanas suddenly got more serious. “So shall we get to the business?”

“I have kept Alric’s side in the Meeting, filibustered and kept things from moving on. I have definitely not gained any favours or friends, but how they have treated Alric is just plain wrong.” Kael told you.

“I heard you received my complaint?” You asked.

“Yes, Lord Uther gave it to me. I raised a storm immediately and Varian could only do but listen.” Kael told you and continued. “The news of Varian wanting to hang the ringleaders and Alric with them was bad enough and then you were thrown into the mix.”

“I added some flavour.” Sylvanas shrugged.

“Threatening to quit the Alliance is not flavour Sylvanas.” Kael said to her.

“I owe her mother that much.” She replied. “Tell me though, why are you so hellbent on trying to rescue him? Varian countered us by telling us that you had threatened to kill him if something happened to Alric.”

Hold on, how does Varian know that? It was just you, Uther and him present when you shouted at him. Uther wouldn't talk, but Arthas? He must have spoken with Varian, what else has he told him!


Kael’thas:
>Has Alric said anything? About you? About the situation?
>Why does he help you and Alric so much?
>Can he help you to rescue him today?
>Arthas must have spoken with Varian, what else does he know? Have you told him anything else that could be important?
>Other, write in.

Sylvanas:
>Alric allows me to be just Malevus, who I want to be.
>Because you love him.
>You are his squire and bodyguard.
>Paladin protects those unjustly arrested and jailed.
>Other, write in.

QM: Please vote on both. Meeting with Jaina after this.

Also Nathanos Marris is dead in this Quest. The first time he met Sylvanas, he ended up tripping on a root and hit his head on a stone. Dead instantly. This is Canon.

>>6326940

Shaw, Mathias Shaw.

>>6326950
>Has Alric said anything? About you? About the situation?
>Why does he help you and Alric so much?
>Can he help you to rescue him today?
Kael help us !!

>Alric allows me to be just Malevus, who I want to be.
>Because you love him.
Even if the paladin path kinda overlaps this is also well suited

>>6326950
>Has Alric said anything? About you? About the situation?
>Why does he help you and Alric so much?
>Arthas must have spoken with Varian, what else does he know? Have you told him anything else that could be important?

>Alric allows me to be just Malevus, who I want to be.
>You are his squire and bodyguard.

>>6326971
>>6326950
>support
Dat tasty Sylvanas pic ooowwwiiieeee
No need to proclaim love this is a professional conversation.

>>6326950
>Also Nathanos Marris is dead in this Quest. The first time he met Sylvanas, he ended up tripping on a root and hit his head on a stone. Dead instantly. This is Canon.

How dare you medivh! You have deprived of us watching him die on screen. How will we get satisfaction if he just dies in the past?

>Has Alric said anything? About you? About the situation?
>Why does he help you and Alric so much?
>Arthas must have spoken with Varian, what else does he know? Have you told him anything else that could be important?

>Alric allows me to be just Malevus, who I want to be.
>You are his squire and bodyguard.

>>6326950
>>Why does he help you and Alric so much?
>>Can he help you to rescue him today?

>Alric allows me to be just Malevus, who I want to be.
>Paladin protects those unjustly arrested and jailed.
>Because you love him.

>>6326950
Good ol Shaw. I had thought the odds low considering he must be supremely busy but he was willing to follow the rumor of Malevus saving that soldier. Plus stopping a riot. I think he would have returned the favor and not let Malevus be captured. Though its hard to say for sure unless you'd divulge what his intended conversation was. Would he have arranged for a ship to put the Alric crew on a ship out of town to avoid any further crashing out on both sides? Ask for another duel to save face lol. Or do as duty demands but put her somewhere safe till this blows over.

>>Why does he help you and Alric so much?
>>Can he help you to rescue him today?
>Arthas must have spoken with Varian, what else does he know? Have you told him anything else that could be important?
Arthas possibly looking afraid just then and the most obvious would be that we can now talk to Jaina in person. Though if hes talked with Varian and knows something more about the Announcement? Maybe hes afraid of how that will go, if its a real doozy with announcing executions. Or the whole threatening to leave the Alliance after they've treated an elf high noble in this way.


>Alric allows me to be just Malevus, who I want to be.
>Paladin protects those unjustly arrested and jailed.
>Because you love him.
' why are you so hellbent on trying to rescue him?
I mean when asked like that and knowing she swore to kill Varian it would have to be a very good reason. Several would just have Kael and Sylvanas glance at each other and see theres more to it. In elvish its not like anyone else can hear.

Whats the plan though. Sylvanas, Kael, Jaina, and Malevus will go bust him out? Have Alric ask for political asylum and he has to go spend a few weeks in Quel'thalas hospitality? Sanctuary in the Church was already violated after all lol but Uther or Bolvar could maybe get in on this.

Jaina confronts Arthas or Varian maybe with Kael to back her up before or after the announcement. A big distraction for the guards, though the Stonemason attack news might do as well. Break out and find Nalice? Confront Varian and put him down?

“I am his squire and bodyguard.” You told her and gripped the sheath a bit more strongly. “That is my duty, but… because he allows me to be who I want. He allows me to be just Malevus.”

Sylvanas studied you and then seemed to shrug.

“Explains running from home then.” She said and continued. “Tell me what does being just Malevus involve?”

“My dream is to become a Paladin, Alric has given me all the opportunities to chase it. He has sparred and trained me, dragging me off the bed before the sun rises to beat my ass time after time.” You told her.

“That sounds… rough.” Sylvanas said back.

“But that is what I want, that's the Malevus I want to be and not this.” You told her and expressed at the dress. “This doesn't bring me joy.”

Sylvanas looked at you and was going to say something as Kael interrupted her.

“She has her own reasons Sylvanas, let them be.” Kael said.

“Why do you then help me and Alric so much?” You asked him.

“How he has been treated by Varian is just plain wrong. You don't arrest a Prince and then threaten to hang him.” Kael told you. “He is worth helping.”

“Worth? Are you getting something out of it?” You continued.

“Smart observation, he has taught you well.” Kael told you. “Yes, the worth is in having a close ally and a friend. That is the politics of this, Alric knows it, Dalaran and Alterac could work together for our common goals.”

Of course Kael wasn't doing all of this purely for the good of his heart. He isn't a fool.

“But also because trying to solve this would be what he would try to do. When we have spoken or if Jaina has visited him, he has always asked if we had heard anything about you.” Kael said. “He was quite upset when he heard about those thugs coming to look for you.”

“Does he…”

“No, we chose not to tell him.” Kael replied.

“How Kael explained it to me and Lady Jaina, there would have been quite a many corpses in the Keep and Alric wouldn't have been one of them.” Sylvanas told you.

“But he should have been told what they tried to do to me!” You argued back.

“So that Alric would have set Varian on fire the next time he sees him? I am not going to take that risk.” Kael said and waved your argument away. He seemed to have learned about Alric’s magic and Sylvanas didn't seem to know what Kael was talking about.

“Are you sure that you aren't just his squire?” She asked you and gave you a curious look.

“Don't tease her, her blush is already giving you the answer.” Kael sighed.

1/3

>>6327300

It was true, Sylvanas had seen through you and now you were blushing.

“That explains a lot.” She said “Quite a lot indeed, so Kael shall we help the lovers?”

“Bu-but how did Varian know about what I said?” You managed to mumble.

“What do you mean?” He asked.

“Only Lord Uther and… Arthas was there and I know Uther wouldn't talk.” You told him.

Kael cursed aloud in and lost his cool for a second or two.

“Of course he would talk with the King, how have I been so stupid.” Kael lamented. “Damn you Arthas…”

You looked around if you could see him, but didn't spot him anymore with his father. Had he left to avoid you?

“Doesn't matter.” Kael continued to lament. “Malevus, Varian knows that you are here and probably thinks about what you will do, but not when. So enjoy the grand ball and make your move when the night isn't as young and people aren't so suspicious of you.”

“He means that they are drunk.” Sylvanas said and finished her glass of wine.

“Am I just going to stand around here?” You asked.

“Speak with the others and you asked what I am getting out of it, when the time is to dance I will come to ask for your hand. We can talk more then.” Kael explained. “Now go, Jaina seems to be waiting for you.”

That was his plan, wait around a bit and then later in the evening slip away? It could work.

“Thank you Prince Sunstrider.” You replied and did a curtsy and continued. “Ranger General.”

“It was my honour Lady Silverthread. You look gorgeous.” Kael replied and took your hand to give the back of it a soft polite kiss.

You blushed again, the attempt to keep your cool and act up was faltering. This was way harder than you had thought and no amount of trying to pray within your mind was helping. But you had to persevere, to succeed.

Bidding goodbye to Kael and Sylvanas, who seemed to have whispered something to him and got him to nod. You walked across the grand hall with the eyes still on you, thankfully less than before.

“Malevus!” Jaina greeted you and surprised you with a light hug.

“H-hello Jaina.” You managed to say back to her.

“You look incredible, that dress! It is fantastic!” Jaina was positively beaming about you. She had gotten her hair done as well and wore a long dress of seaweed green of Kul Tiras and violet of Dalaran. That dress wasn't as overdone like the ones worn by the locals and it made Jaina look really pretty. Especially how it hugged her body and made her look very alluring. Dalaran seems to have a good variety of couturiers at hand.

“T-thanks.” You succeeded in saying. “You look incredible as well.

Her father cleared his throat.

“Jaina, you aren't going to introduce us?” He asked.

“Ah yes, this is my father Lord Admiral Daelin Proudmoore and that is my little brother Tandred.” Jaina told you.

“Lady Malevus Silverthread.” You said to them and did a deep curtsy.

2/3

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>>6327301

“It has been a while since I have seen an elven beauty like you.” Daelin said and firmly kept his eyes fixed on yours. “I now understand why Prince Kael’thas had gotten so angry.”

“Father…” Jaina faintly protested. “And Tandred, stop staring at Malevus.”

You looked at Jaina's little brother. A couple years younger than her, he was wearing a similar naval officers jacket like his father was. The difference was just that while Daelin seemed unflappable, Tandred with his short fuzzy golden hair was blushing like there was no tomorrow.

“I will leave the three of you be.” Daelin said and turned to look at you. “And Lady Silverthread, we know why you are here so don't try to do anything foolish with that blade of yours.”

“Of course Lord Admiral.” You replied and noticed him tapping the cutlass by his side.

“And Tandred, no drinking. You are not of age.” He said.

“Yes father.” Tandred replied.

Daelin Proudmoore left the three of you and went to talk with the rest of the Kings.

“That was my father, he seems harsh and like a hard person, but means well.” Jaina said to you and got suddenly more serious. “You spoke with Kael?”

“Yes, he told me that Alric is fine.” You said to her. You were now speaking in Common so some caution was needed.

Jaina sighed and rubbed her brow and then looked at her little brother. “Tandred, what did I tell you?”

“S-sorry.” He muttered back and couldn't get his eyes off you.

Did he immediately have a crush on you? That was fast, but he probably never has seen a dress like this worn by an elf. And Jaina, she seemed serious even if happy to see you. Should you tell her about Arthas right now or wait till somewhere more private?


Jaina:
>Has Alric spoken to her?
>Kael told me to wait till people are more occupied by drinking and such.
>Jaina knows about the hanging, but does she know that Arthas seemed to be in support of it.
>Where did Arthas go? He was here when you arrived, but has disappeared.
>Other, write in

Tandred:
>Apologise to him, you are already being courted by someone else. Be very polite.
>Tease him a little for staring at you.
>Big tease, give him a lesson to not stare.
>Don't bother him, he looks like he is going to explode at any second.
>Other, write in

QM: Daelin appreciates the beauty of elven women.

>>6327302
Jaina:
>Has Alric spoken to her?
>Kael told me to wait till people are more occupied by drinking and such.
>Jaina knows about the hanging, but does she know that Arthas seemed to be in support of it.

Tandred:
>Apologise to him, you are already being courted by someone else. Be very polite.
lol

>>6327302
>Jaina knows about the hanging, but does she know that Arthas seemed to be in support of it.
>Where did Arthas go? He was here when you arrived, but has disappeared.

>Tease him a little for staring at you.

>>6327302
>>Has Alric spoken to her?
>>Kael told me to wait till people are more occupied by drinking and such.
>>Jaina knows about the hanging, but does she know that Arthas seemed to be in support of it.
>>Where did Arthas go? He was here when you arrived, but has disappeared.

>Tease him a little for staring at you.

Tandred really does seem to have a crush on you, but you can't fault him. Your dress was purpose built to look as good as it does.

“Tandred?” You asked him.

“Y-yes?” He mumbled back.

“First time seeing an elven Lady?” You asked him. “Because you keep staring at me.”

“N-no, I mean… you are very cute!” Tandred blurted out and you couldn't avoid slightly blushing.

“Alright Tandred, go see uncle Muradin because otherwise you will explode.” Jaina said and shooed him off.

As he left, he did look at you once more which made you smile.

“Tandred always likes to tease me, last year he thought that Alric was my boyfriend.” Jaina told you and shook her head. “But the moment a beautiful lady appears, he becomes all weak in the knees.”

“The dress is working.” You replied.

“Your beauty is working, not just the dress.” Jaina said and continued. “Why are you even dressed like this?”

“To get inside, I am a noblewoman so if I dress like a Silverthread, who is going to stop me?” You shrugged. It was nice to talk to Jaina like this, a bit of normalcy in otherwise quite testing times.

“We have a lot to talk, I want to hear more about your family because look at you. You look incredible.” Jaina said and leaned closer. “You are so beautiful, no wonder Alric kept asking about you.”

“Jaina, have you spoken with Alric?”

“Not today, but yesterday. He is in good spirits, but of course he is worried about all of this. Though not just about himself, but everyone else.” Jaina said and leaned to whisper. “He said that he could escape at any moment, I don't know how, but that he won't be in danger.”

“Just need to time it perfectly?” You asked. “Do you know where his sword is? I need to get it for him.”

“Yeah.” Jaina said and thought about your question. “I think I saw it in Varian's office.”

Jaina concurred with what Nalice had told you. Alric could escape, but won't do it as it would cast a light of suspicion on him. To help others it is his part to be jailed.

“Where did Arthas go? I wanted to talk with him.” You asked her next. “He disappeared while I talked with Kael.”

Jaina looked around and didn't see him with King Terenas or others either.

“I don't know. He did say that he had briefly met you in the Church, is that why you wanted to speak with him?” Jaina asked and mused. “He has seemed a bit distant in the past few days, don't know why.”

She didn't seem to know what Arthas had said to Lord Uther.

“Jaina, you know the talk of Varian wanting to have Alric hang?” You asked her.

“Yes, we couldn't believe it. It doesn't have the support amongst the Kings or the Church either.” Jaina said back to you.

1/3

>>6327448

"I spoke with him, bit more than just speaking. You heard the threat I said? I told Arthas that.” You said to her and placed your right hand on her shoulder. “Jaina, you need to know something.”

“What is it Malevus? You are making me concerned.” Jaina said, her tone now quite serious.

You guided her away from the crowds and against one of the walls. Less eavesdropping or bystanders around you.

“It was less of a polite conversation and more of… I am sorry Jaina, but I shouted at him.” You said. “You need to know what happened.”

“Malevus, you are now scaring me.”

“Arthas seems to support the idea of having Alric hanged, he said that it was for Varian to decide.” You told her.

You could see in the eyes of Jaina that her heart just skipped several beats.

“W-what?” She muttered.

You started from the beginning. Shadowing him, listening to him. How Arthas told Uther how Alric had conspired against Varian with the Nobles, how it was Varian's Kingdom and his rules, how it was for him to decide. You told her what you had argued back to him and what you had told him. The threat against Varian and what you thought of Arthas himself.

“A joke of a Paladin.” You finished.

“No, that can't be…” Jaina replied, her voice had little strength. “I-I don't want to believe you.”

“I am not lying.” You replied. “I am sorry Jaina.”

“I know, I just wish that you were lying…” She said and continued. “He has always hated Alric, but I thought that he had gotten over it, at least a bit after we started dating...”

Her eyes started to water and you pulled her into a hug. Some of the guests gave the two of you curious looks, but you didn't care.

“I am sorry Jaina.” You said and let go of her.

She smiled a little.

“Thank you for telling me this. I now know why he has been so distant. Alric and Arthas had a spat and he used the same exact words. Joke of a Paladin...” Jaina said to you carefully. “I'm sorry, but I need to go.”

2/3

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>>6327450

“To seek him out?”

“No, I don't know what I would say to him. But I need some fresh air, I need to think.” Jaina told you and continued. “Let's get Alric rescued and then I…”

Jaina paused.

“Let's rescue Alric, but I need to… think first.” Jaina continued.

“Of course, let's rescue Alric.” You said to her.

Jaina nodded and walked away, leaving you standing there alone. Was it the right thing to do to tell her everything? She seemed so upset about Arthas, that her boyfriend could even entertain any of this? You hoped she would return before she was needed with rescuing Alric as a motivation.

You looked around. More guests had arrived and the people you knew had scattered around or moved elsewhere. What Daelin Proudmoore had said circled in your mind, they know what you are trying to do. You saw some guards by some of the doors. They kept constant watch and were probably observing you as well. Some commotion was going on and quickly the hubbub spread to even you.

Varian would enter the grand ball soon.

Oh snap, now already? You had thought you would have more time to talk with the friendly faces. Was it already the time for the announcement? Kael had told you to wait till later, but if Varian was to appear and make the announcement, everyone would be concentrated on him and not on you.

This was an opening you could take, or should you wait till a better opportunity rises and you could rally those more friendly to you?


>Yes, now is the opportunity. Slip away and go rescue Alric.
>No, better to wait for now for a better opportunity to leave without getting noticed.

QM: This is how it will work. There will be opportunities for Malevus to attempt to slip out and go rescue Alric without being noticed. Some are better, some are worse, but things might not get easier longer the night goes. There will be four to five opportunities. Yes vote will lead into the rescue segment, no vote will lead into more talking and waiting. Like Nalice said, you are untouchable until you do something.

Also the chance for Malevus having just nuked the relationship of Arthas and Jaina is high.

>>6327451
>Also the chance for Malevus having just nuked the relationship of Arthas and Jaina is high.

After the shit he pulled, fuck him. He deserves worse.

>No, better to wait for now for a better opportunity to leave without getting noticed.
Let's wait for jaina to collect herself and for people to get slightly more drunk.

>>6327451

Jaina could probably use some time. People will settle down and get drunk. Lemme just weigh things out.

Kael wants to wait until the dance. Though he doesn't know about the VanCleef plans which will probably? make a good opportunity to leave in the hubbub but we don't really know the timing.

Cindersword is in Varian's office, so to get that we'd want an opportunity where he isn't in his office such as now. He will make the announcement so his office will be open, if we don't run into him on the way over lol. When the Stonemason attacks happen that might get him back into his office for reports after he assures people he will handle it. He gets back, notices the Cindersword is missing, puts out an alert. Hard to say what I'd really go for

>>6327451
>No, better to wait for now for a better opportunity to leave without getting noticed.

We need Jaina to pull her shit together. And possibly cause a scene when Arthas comes back with varian. Which I assume he is currently with.

>>6327467
Facts. Time to get our boy kaelthas a shot with Jaina

>>6327451
>No, better to wait for now for a better opportunity to leave without getting noticed.
Im betting on a explosion out in the city to draw some attention or something like that.

>Also the chance for Malevus having just nuked the relationship of Arthas and Jaina is high.
And he would have no one but himself to blame for that one. Im sure this would make him a better man and paladin. :)

>>6327451
>>No, better to wait for now for a better opportunity to leave without getting noticed.

>>6327467
>>6327592
Ive wanted to strangle him for so long its maddening, this will have to do for now.

>Time to get our boy kaelthas a shot with Jaina
kek

No, not yet. The guards and soldiers are still alert and you could feel the odd atmosphere in the grand hall. It is as if people are expecting something to happen. If you were to now slip away and go rescue Alric, the likelihood of you bumping into someone was a bit too high.

So it was better to wait and see what the announcement is going to be about.

Straightening your back and taking several deep breaths, you pulled your act together. A nearby waitress provided you with a glass of wine to sip as you started to blend in with the guests. No one dared to approach you as you stood there and slowly shuffled towards the throne room. The strange thing was that you could feel the eyes of the Nobles on you, but everyone avoided getting closer to you.

“King Varian!” A guard shouted and a trumpet played a tune.

You saw the other Kings having gathered near the throne, Lord Uther and rest of the Church people were close by. Kael and Sylvanas were there as well. And when he arrived, King Varian Wrynn stepped out from one of the side doors, he was wearing the liveries and colours of Stormwind with his sword by his side and furs on his shoulders. He didn't seem like the melancholic King you had been told he is. He was followed by some of his guards, assistants, someone who looked like a court mage and…

Arthas

The Nobles bowed deeply as Varian walked to the throne. You just stared at him and for a second you knew he recognised you. A single elf in red amongst overstuffed clothing of the Nobles. Anger raced through you, that is the man who has caused you so much trouble and imprisoned Alric. It angered you so much that you took a step forward.

“Ahh lass, there you are.” You heard a heavy accent next to you.

You looked to your right and then down. There was a dwarf standing there.

“Oh… looking for me?” You asked him.

“Aye, the young Proudmoore couldn't stop talking about the beautiful elf.” Dwarf said and continued. “I had to see that beauty with my own eyes. He wasn't wrong.”

Tandred? So he went to that uncle Muradin, who is a dwarf? He could sense your confusion and so he continued.

“Muradin, my big brother is one of the Kings over there.” Muradin introduced himself.

“Malevus… my Prince is in jail.” You said back to him and the dwarf snorted.

“Oh we know who you are, threatening the King like that. We thought you would come, but to dress like that and carrying a sword?” Muradin said to you. “You have brass balls the size of ogre’s twin heads, let me tell you that.”

“T-thanks…” You mumbled back.

“Now it's starting.” Muradin said as Varian started to speak and the crowd got quiet.

1/2

>>6327661

“My fellow Nobles, the last two weeks have been hard, but we have prevailed. The attempt by the vile rebels to capture the power to themselves has failed, their leaders and their foreign supporters arrested. Our army is dealing with the Stonemasons as we speak.”

“That is a lie.” You muttered and got Muradin to look at you.

Varian continued. He acknowledged the hard times that had followed since the Stonemason riots, how it had affected the stability and economy of the Kingdom. Not a single word of how it was his inactivity that caused the issues, but instead it was Stonemasons and these rebel Nobles that plotted against him and the Kingdom.

“Not a single thing is his fault, he is rewriting history…” You muttered.

“That's politics for ya.” Muradin said. “The announcement, listen.”

“The House of Nobles will be increased in size from two hundred to three hundred sitting members.” Varian announced.

“More loyalists to him to prevent this from happening again.” Muradin explained.

“A special tribunal will be formed to rework the laws and functions of the House to allow smoother and more efficient governance.” Varian spoke.

“And making it a stamp to pass his laws without opposition.” Muradin continued.

Varian continued how there will be coin provided to projects to restore the City and how traders and merchants will benefit from lowered taxes. There will be prosperity and peace for all of them. But how to finance it all…

“A justice tribunal will also be formed. They will gather the evidence and pass the sentences to the rebels. Those who partook in the attempt will be fined based on their participation. Properties will be confiscated from those who raised their hands against the King and the Kingdom. The ringleaders and their foreign supporters will be stripped of their status, their properties taken and they will, depending on their crimes, find lifetime in prison or death by hanging.”

The guest murmured, there it was. He was going with the death penalty to the likes of Katrana and… foreign supporters like Alric.

“Those here today will get to work with me towards a greater future, brighter future.” Varian spoke and his words didn't register in your mind anymore.

He was going to have Alric hanged, he was threatening it. The Kings just stood there doing nothing, nor did the Church. You took a step forward and found a stout hand grab your arm.

“Lass, don't do it. You confront him now, he will just have you arrested and thrown into the same cell with your Prince.” Muradin warned you.

You looked at the dwarf, his eyes didn't lie. Your knuckles were white as you gripped the sheath of your sword, anger and vengeance gathered within you. But what Muradin said was right, you would get arrested and they would bring you to Alric. If he could escape at any time, then the two of you could just return here and confront Varian properly.

2/3

>>6327662

But that was risky, you wouldn't have your sword with you anymore and Alric wouldn't have his either. And your friends? Jaina hadn't returned. How would the Church react? This could work, but…

“Lass, Prince Kael’thas spoke with me, don't do it.” Muradin pleaded.

Your eyes hadn't left Varian's and you saw as he searched for reactions amongst the Nobles. And his eyes found yours, he grinned as if he had won. You started to take the step…


>Forward, go and confront King Varian right now. Let everyone know of his actions against you. He will probably have you arrested.
>Back, Muradin is right. Not now, not yet. And if he has spoken with Kael, he is at least sympathetic towards you.

>>6327640
>And he would have no one but himself to blame for that one. Im sure this would make him a better man and paladin. :)
lol

>>6327663
>>Back, Muradin is right. Not now, not yet. And if he has spoken with Kael, he is at least sympathetic towards you.
Good ol Muradin, so refreshing. What I wouldn't give to get him to come over to Dawnholme and make a project of looking into the burrows for cool ancient relics like the silver dagger and history lessons. Bit of tension with the Dark Irons. Maybe a discussion on rifles and that someone made some very decent fakes. Open up trade with that dwarf spot on the map, though it would probably be difficult.

God Varian is such a heel he may as well ask the crowd if they can smell whats hes cooking. I suppose once hes had his fun and Malevus hasn't rushed forward he'll stop paying attention to her long enough to start the rescue.

I wonder if the Alliance is still funding the reconstruction with all this going on, or if thats been cut and so now he will use the confiscations and fines to do it himself.

God damn it I had Kael in front of us and I forgot to ask if he could read whats on the blade. I doubt Muradin reads ancient Thalassian even if he is an explorer.

>>6327663
>>Back, Muradin is right. Not now, not yet. And if he has spoken with Kael, he is at least sympathetic towards you.

>>6327663
>>Back, Muradin is right. Not now, not yet. And if he has spoken with Kael, he is at least sympathetic towards you.

>>6327663
>Back, Muradin is right. Not now, not yet. And if he has spoken with Kael, he is at least sympathetic towards you.

Fucking tyrant. I don't see how alric even remotely cooperates with storm wind in the future.

Qm I gotta give you credit. Your npcs are really pissing me off, your doing a good job writing.

>>6327663
>Forward, go and confront King Varian right now. Let everyone know of his actions against you. He will probably have you arrested.
ignore muradin and take up frostmourne, malevus

>>6327663
>Back, Muradin is right. Not now, not yet. And if he has spoken with Kael, he is at least sympathetic towards you.

Though id really like to go off about how he broke Alrics nose when katrana brought a budget proposal and he refused to sign it and Alric tried to Carole him into action and the Speaker said it was a legal vote. This wasn't a coup or rebels. This was desperate people trying to save the country with an inactive king.

Back. This wasn't the time, not yet.

You sighed. Muradin noticed it.

“Believe me lass, if I were in your shoes…” Muradin said and looked down at the hem of your dress that found its place. “In your toes… and my brother was being held prisoner, I would have screamed bloody murder and charged in with my hammer and axe.” Muradin told you.

You didn't say anything back to him immediately as Varian finished his speech. Though you didn't listen as you could only stare at him.

“Thank you Master Muradin.” You said to him.

“I don't like this, but we all have our roles to play here.” He replied. “Lass, they are setting up the tables, let's go eat.”

You had been eating mostly freshly baked bread and not much else in the past few days so that sounded like something you would enjoy. Frankly you were more than hungry and if you are to wait, better use it in some useful manner.

…

This wasn't a feast, but the variety of different dishes was high. You would take a small plate, fill it with food and move aside to one of the smaller tables to eat. Boiled carrots, bean sprouts and cauliflower. Venison in wine sauce and pigeon pie. A glass of wine and you were thoroughly enjoying this. Like a proper noblewoman, you didn't forget your manners while eating, but Muradin… well he was a dwarf.

Somehow he had found a larger platter than what was available and filled it with all the different sorts of meats available, though mostly chicken breasts and wings. Somehow he also had a big mug of ale.

“So Malevus.” He started between the bites. “How did a lass like you end up with the Prince? How is he, how good is he?”

No beating around the bush? No leading questions? Muradin was very direct and you blushed a little.

“W-while eating?” You asked him. “You don't mind?”

“No, I don't mind, eating is for conversations. Fills your mind and head.” He replied.

“Well we ummm… had a couple encounters and ummm… we held hands and ummm… he is really goofy from time to time which I like ummm… he is very good at kissing and making me feel like a woman…” You mumbled.

Muradin looked at you for a moment and started to laugh. The laughter got the attention of the guests, but they quickly realised it was just an embarrassed beautiful elf and a dwarf who was having the time of his life.

“Oh lass, I didn't mean like that! In his service!” He continued to laugh. “Though it is good to hear that things are alright between the two of ya.”

“Oh… ohh…” You realised your misunderstanding. Your mind had leaped over that and immediately into the poorest secret in Stormwind City.

1/2

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>>6327819

It didn't hurt to tell Muradin about how you met Alric or general details of how you serve him in the usual day to day tasks. As you collected yourself from the embarrassment, you told Muradin more about Alric and all the issues he has been facing and how he has tried to solve them. And how good of a fighter he is and how you have never beaten him in a fair fight.

“He sure sounds like a true swordsman, but to beat you while sparring every day?” Muradin said and seemed puzzled. “That's a lot of sparring.”

“Is it? Well ummm… I do like it, even if he makes me wake up so early…” You lamented and got Muradin to snort again.

“My brother is on the fence, he and Varian are good friends. And I am very good friends with Prince Arthas.” Muradin said to you. “But I, I have been exploring and travelling enough to have seen it all. I have seen this happen before lass. Hearing this has made me know that I chose the right side.”

“Thank you Master Muradin.” You thanked him again.

“Don't worry about it, now we do things right and we can worry about the rest later.” He replied to you. “Though lass, I do need to say. I have seen plenty of elven, but not one in such a fine dress and carrying a rather interesting sword with her. Where did you get it?”

The sword given to you by Katrana was resting by your side and you glanced at it and then you glanced behind Muradin. Arthas was walking and talking with King Thoras Trollbane. Arthas was flanked by one of his bodyguards.

“And if I can ask, what's the deal with those Dark Irons your Prince has hired? We have a long and not so good history with them, makes some of our people worried, ya see.” Muradin spoke again.


Muradin:
>Tell him that you got the sword from Katrana and that it is apparently an ancient elven sword.
>Supposedly the blade is older than the sea against which this City is built. Ancient elven supposedly.
>The Dark Irons are something he needs to ask Alric about. You don't really know much.
>Blacksteels aren't doing that well, so Alric has bought armour and now their technical expertise from them.
>Because there’s oil underneath Strahnbrad Hills and they have the know-how to pump it.
>Other, write in

Arthas:
>Chase after and confront Arthas. No answers to Muradin.
>Stay at the table and answer Muradin's questions.

QM: Arthas or Muradin?

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>>6327733
>>6327671

A good heel needs to have a win or two from time to time. To have that edge over the babyfaces and make them take a defeat or a setback. If they just keep losing that makes them jobbers and not good heels. A monster of a month challenger like the gnoll mage and the chieftain avoid this as they aren't recurring characters, but someone like Garithos? I might have buried him a bit too hard, but hey dice decided that to happen.

Though I am not so sure have I done a good job with Varian. He does represent the heel I like the most, the one that thinks he is in the right and is willing to go very far to prove that to everyone else.

Pic related when the heel denies the babyfaces their success.

>>6327833
I think you've done well with varian so far. If I recall he doesn't really mellow out until his son influences him to do so and anduin is currently only a little chap at the moment.

>>6327821
Muradin:
>Tell him that you got the sword from Katrana and that it is apparently an ancient elven sword.

She collects ancient relics as a hobby and interest.
>Blacksteels aren't doing that well, so Alric has bought armour and now their technical expertise from them.
>Because there’s oil underneath Strahnbrad Hills and they have the know-how to pump it.

Alric has to take any friendship he can get when the people he should rely on accuse him of treason, arrest him, and attempt to have him hanged, or spread viscous and untoward rumors about him.

>>6327821
>Tell him that you got the sword from Katrana and that it is apparently an ancient elven sword
The holy smoking conan sword of swords. If anyone appreciates finding ancient goodies it's Muradin.

>Blacksteels aren't doing that well, so Alric has bought armour and now their technical expertise from them.
>Because there’s oil underneath Strahnbrad Hills and they have the know-how to pump it
If anyone is going to understand that the dark irons have a caste system and the threat of losing their trade caste it should be him. Though not said so bluntly, more that Muradin could read into it. Oil is oil.

>Stay at the table and answer Muradin's questions.
I certainly don't want to bother with Arthas, nor make a scene when it gets heated lol. Muradin time.

>>6327821
>Supposedly the blade is older than the sea against which this City is built. Ancient elven supposedly.
>Blacksteels aren't doing that well, so Alric has bought armour and now their technical expertise from them.
>Because there’s oil underneath Strahnbrad Hills and they have the know-how to pump it.

Idk why you want to tell him katrana gave it to us. Makes us look bought and paid for. Sometimes you anons...

>>6327833
Yeah, Varian's character arc dosen't start till like MoP and he is very bull-headed and abrasive throughout the comics. We're probably persona non-grata in Stormwind at least until...Legion expansion?

There's a good reason Katrana had to resort to the kidnapping plan later and it's cool to see the explanation here. Because, when push comes to shove, Varian is really good at shoving. We just, rightly so based on the image presented in character, assumed he was completely apathetic.

>>6327833
Varian has certainly shed any doubt he had, and in a mind like that he's barely restrained in the face of considerable and reasonable opposition.

>>6327893
I understand and considered that myself. However he asked how we got it, and to have Malevus try to not answer that the question is this; do we think that Muradin would see Malevus avoided answering where she got it?

I think he'd notice. Trying to hide it just makes it more suspicious and mysterious, and he's an explorer. If he's intrigued how hard would it really be to find out from Kael that it's not a family sword, from a servant or guard when she came back with it and from which direction. If it was given as a gift and not payment for services it's not something to hide, especially to a very discerning character like Muradin. Hiding it makes it look worse than it is.

>>6327914
Just because someone asks us something doesn't mean we have to divulge that information. We can easily redirect the conversation and deflect. Just beacuse WE know it was a gift doesnt mean other people will view it that way. Smdh