Chapter Text
Alexstrasza emerged into the Emerald Dreamway and scared half a dozen druids who'd been conversing in the middle of the field, the one in the form of a nightsaber jumping straight up into the air.
"Oh, I am sorry. I did not mean to frighten you," she said when the druid had landed. Whatever they said in return was lost as a flock of whelplings and one very excited fairy dragon mobbed her.x
"Auntie!"
"Great-Auntie!"
"Yay! Alexstrasza!"
"Visitors!"
Stunned for a brief moment, Alexstrasza laughed before she began to greet the whelps and the fey dragon, Brightwing.
"Children, leave her alone, we have some important things to do. You can mob her for cuddles later," Ysera said as she hovered over the ground.
Reluctantly the whelps let go of the red, flew in a circle around Ysera and then flew off in a chatting flock. Leaving only the fey dragon who'd perched on Alexstrasza's head.
"You too, Brightwing. Go make sure the little ones don't get into too much trouble,"
"Kay!" the smaller dragon said, blinking away and reappearing mid-flutter closer to the flock of whelps.
"The little ones look good," Alexstrasza noted.
Yesera landed and did not quite meet her sister's eye. "Here they are effectively immortal. Not even the bronzes have a refuge such as this, though they can approximate such things." She looked up into the sky of the Dreaming, the warm light illuminating the grove, cast dappled patterns onto her scales. "It is selfish of me, I know, but if the Bback flight was to be Azeroth's first line of defense, we were to be her last. Even when I felt we had been utterly defeated, I still ordered all the whelps here and as many of my drakes as I could. We will eventually give way to the mortal druids, but I wanted them to live as long and peacefully as they could."
Alexstrasza extended a wing over her sister's back and nuzzled at the frills along her jaw. "I understand. And I understand my reds cannot live here nor the bronzes or blues. None of us blame you for trying to keep your Charge."
Ysera relaxed and returned her sister's nuzzle briefly. "Come on. We have some ways to go."
The two sisters flew through the Emerald Dream, Alexstrasza following Ysera. It was like the waking world and yet not. Colors were oversaturated and vibrant in many places and muted and foggy in others. Distance and time seemed to have no meaning. One moment they flew over a sleepy but clear depiction of Thunder Bluff and the next was a fuzzier Orgrimmar. Eventually her sister began to climb into the sky. Even this far into the Dreaming, it seemed as if they had been travelling for a long time. On and on Ysera flew, the winds of the peaks strong. Then Alexstrasza began to see wood. Branches curling down across the stone and into the cracks and peaks. The clouds above them parted and a massive tree, it's branches still far above, could be seen.
At first she thought it might be Nordrassil but no, that didn't seem quite right. Far above the lowest branches, she could see tiny figures flocking together. The branches at these heights were ghostly, fading in and out of view as the flying creatures also wove in and out of view, their bodies all configurations and colors, yet each one oddly transparent.
Ysera's flight leveled out and she found a perch on the exposed root of the great tree. She set a paw against the wood, stroking the bark then looked at her sister.
"When Aviana and the other Ancients were restored to fight for Hyjal, this place began to grow more distinct. I remember it from before. It was even larger then. You can still see the echos above."
"G'hanir?"
Ysera nodded, her eyes fixed on the boughs above, still impossibly far from where they were. "It was only an echo after Aviana died. For the next ten-thousand years we could see ghostly images, but the tree was physically absent from the Dreaming. Since her restoration part of G'hanir has returned to us here. But the upper boughs... You can see them better now but you can never reach them not matter how long or how high you fly. That is not the way to reach those boughs." Ysera's wings rustled. "Their realm touches the shadowlands. I haven't seen my lost loves there. They're too far to see. But I know they are there." She smiled at her sister. "And I know your loved ones await you. May that day be long in coming." Ysera nuzzled her sister's head.
"But we are not here to look across the gulf of eternity, my sister. This was the first thing created in the Dream. My power is not as it was, but if I have any chance of reaching Azeroth, it will be from here." Ysera settled onto the branch, tucking her feet and wings against her body. She closed her eyes and breathed out.
Alexstrasza settled beside her sister, and waited.
And waited.
She opened her eyes and watched the figures high above. The souls of all winged creatures on Azeroth would one day fly among the branches of G'hanir. She thought of the consorts and children she'd lost. The friends. Was Neltharion there or had his soul been consumed by the Old Gods and their terribly powers? Was Malygos there, free of his madness and once more the curious and clever dragon she'd called brother? Her heart ached for the wisdom of Tyranastrasz and the comfort of Korialstrasz.
"You can always join them, you know," a voice said to her left, filled with sharp amusement.
Alexstrasza started, her head whipping around. Aviana perched on the next root over. She was even larger than the two dragons here at the heart of her realm. Her golden harpy eyes were sharp and watched with the careful gaze of a predator. Great talons flexed into the bark, impossibly sharp. She smirked at Alexstrasza, her hands flexing.
Alexstrasza inclined her head but never dropped her eyes. "One day I will. But not today, great one."
Aviana laughed, the croaking sound of a raven. She fluffed her feathers and relaxed onto the branch, swishing her tail and tucking her wings. Her gaze turned from the pair of dragons to a point behind Ysera who was beginning to wake from her trance.
Aessina dissolved into view, the great spirit of Nature hovering over the roots of the tree. "Are you giving my friends a hard time?" she asked.
Aviana croaked another laugh. "Nothing they cannot handle. You requested us. We are here." She cocked her head at Ysera. "Speak."
Ysera explained what Alexstrasza had discovered. She concluded with their current plan. "We wish to speak with Azeroth."
Aviana's headcrest rose in surprise. "Why did you summon us then?" she asked.
"We understand there is some risk to Her," Alexstrasza answered. She looked from one Ancient guardian to the other. "Are we worth it?"
"Yes," Aessina answered promptly. "You are of her as we are, though you were refined and given gifts by the Titans. I do not see how the loss of some of her forces would benefit our great Earthmother. Do you not agree?" she asked Aviana.
The massive Harpy's gaze had turned shrewd once more. Her silence continued for some time. Alexstrasza, shifted closer to her sister. Ysera likewise pressed her side against her sister as they waited for the judgement of the Ancient.
"You have been nearly slain," Aviana finally said. "You have sacrificed and bled for this world. My realm is filled with countless dragons who gave their lives for this world. And while you are wounded you yet fight." She smiled, a feral terrifying grin. "I was slain and resurrected. You have not been brought so far. Yet. Your kind are worthy guardians. When next the minions of the Old Gods or the Legion appear on this world, I would have your people fill the skies and rend them to shreds." Aviana's great clawed feet flexed again on the root.
"You have your answer then, dear friends," Aessina said, her voice a musical whisper of wind.
"Do you know how best we might contact her?" Ysera asked.
Aviana snorted. "No, but you did not come to us for that. You merely wished to know if your lives were worth keeping. They are."
"Thank you," the sisters murmured, together."
"Good hunting," Aviana said then launched herself into the sky. One moment she was there the next she was gone.
Aessina laughed gently. "My dear friends, I too wish you well. I have felt her moods on occasion but I have never spoken with Azeroth." The great whisp hovered closer. "Should you find her, give her my love?" The wisp winked then dissolved from view.
Alexstrasza blinked at the place where she'd been. "That was at once very validating and far less helpful than I had anticipated."
Ysera sighed and fell against her sister. "Agreed." She huffed a breath.
"Ideas?"
"Get settled," Ysera said, doing so herself. "I'll see if I cannot guide us deeper."
Alexstrasza did as instructed. "I am ready."
"Good now- A moment." Ysera looked out over the mountain.
Following her gaze, Alexstrasza saw a trio of green dragons fade into view as they drew closer. The dragon in the center was a glorious spring green with summer-gold accents. "That is Merithra is it not?"
"It is. Something must have happened."
"Mother! Aunt! I am glad to have caught you before you went deeper," Merithra said as she alighted on a root nearby.
"What is it?"
"Ravistraz is on his way to the Well. He is looking for you Aunt."
The two sisters exchanged a look. "We'll return to this," Alexstraszasa said.
"Of course. Follow me. I will leave you to the nearest exit."
Alexstrasza and the other dragons emerged from the Dreamway portal in Hyjal some time later. It was early night and soft lanterns lit the housing spaces the druids used.
"Mother!"
Alexstrasza looked up as Ravi sailed down from a perch higher in Nordrassil. He landed at a trot as he approached. Alexstrasza and Ysera exchanged frowns.
"Ravi? What is going on?" Alexstrasza asked
"A trial!"
"A trial?" Ysera asked, tilting her head. "Whose?"
"Garrosh Hellscream, Aunt. Mother, your presence has been requested. He is to be tried in Pandaria, the Celestials will sit in judgement."
Alexstrasza sat on her haunches. "I see. I will attend. Come with me, sister?"
"Me?"
"You," Alexstrasza said, nudging her with a wing. "Once that business is concluded perhaps we might have another conversation with the August Celestials. Yu'lon may have some wisdom to share."
"And Chi-ji, some hope," Ysera added.
"Don't sound so cynical! Also the food is lovely."
"I suppose a change of scenery might be nice. I understand the Vale has been damaged. Perhaps I might have some thoughts on how to restore it if I see it in person."
The trial was difficult.
Not her part when she was called to take the stand by High Priestess Whisperwind. She'd made her peace with the terrible violations she and her people had suffered at the hands of the Dragonmaw orcs. It was an old pain but one she could endure.
The gathered crowd had stood in respect when she'd been called. Alexstrasza's gaze had swept across the crowd. Her heart swelled with love and mutual respect for those present. Some she knew personally, many she did not. They had not extended such courtesy to the others who'd taken the stand and they'd done so unified.
Her eyes had met Chi-Ji's from where he sat with the other August Celestials in their mortal guises. The Red Crane had smiled and inclined his head to her, the actions unnoticed as all eyes were focused on her.
Harder had been to hear how others had suffered at the hands of Garrosh Hellscream and the regime he'd cultivated within the Horde. She'd not envied Baine Bloodhoof's task of acting as the defense.
Through the Bronze Flight's magic, all present had been able to witness moments in time that Tyrande, as Accuser, had deemed relevant to her case. Hearing of Anduin's harrowing experience had raked savage claws across her heart. Seeing it had let them sink deeper. And Jaina Proudmoore... The screams as her people turned to violet ash under her fingers, as she scratched at the ground in madness borne of grief, trying to recover and reassemble her lost apprentice.
Alexstrasza shivered and pulled the thick cloak she'd been given more tightly around her shoulders. Sleep would not come and so she'd found a perch high on the roof of Xuen's temple and returned to her pandaren form. A light thump heralded the arrival of another. The scratch of clawed feet became the soft steps of another pandaren as Chi-Ji shifted into his favored pandaren form, that of a robust male with fire-red fur. He held a woven basket in one hand. He held it up in silent offering.
Alexstrasza scooted to the side so he might sit down. The Red Crane did so and opened the ties on the basket revealing delicate sweet buns, still warm to the touch. Steam swirled into the air lit by the moons. He handed her a sticky bun and ate one himself. The bun had delicious red-bean paste inside, the texture of the pastry light and wonderful.
"I am grateful for the lives you restored to us today," Alexstrasza said. In Garrosh's escape many people had died. The Red Crane, in a display of power seldom seen since the War of the Ancients some ten thousand years ago, had resurrected them all.
Chi-Ji bowed his head. "It was the right thing to do and what I believe Azeroth needed. There were too many important lives needlessly lost. The repercussions would have been felt for ages." He chewed thoughtfully on a second sticky bun. "I believe that many will take their experience here as an opportunity to heal."
Jaina Proudmoore, Kalec's chosen mate, had been one of those to die and be restored. There was still pain in her eyes, but the smouldering fire of fury had been extinguished. She'd left under her own power, but Kalecgos had hovered as they walked to the portal.
"How is your hunt?"
Alexstrasza sighed. "My sister and I will be going deep into the Dream to attempt contact. If that does not work then I do not know what to do."
"Yet?"
"Hm?"
"You do not know what you will do yet," he gently corrected, pressing another pastry into her hands. "I know you will figure something out."
"Do you know something I do not? Perhaps you've been speaking to the Bronzes?"
Chi-Ji chuckled. "Not as such, no, but... I have a good feeling about you. We always have." He smiled. "I remember the day Freya introduced this group of strange-looking beings to us in the Vale. You'd raced down from the summit, trailing snow and ice in your wakes. The ground trembled when Neltharion romped around chasing after Nozdormu who he could never quite catch."
"Malygos and Yu'lon found a quiet spot by the lake and spoke for days," Alexstrasza added, heart trembling at the memories. Her vision grew watery.
"And there were two sisters who clung to one another as they walked around the valley, taking in the sights as much as one another," Chi-Ji said, favoring her with a soft smile. "For Ysera would soon take up her charge in the Dream."
"I'd forgotten that part," Alexstrasza admitted. "I thought I would never see her again, but it was not so. I saw her projected self quite often. She visited me in my own dreams and drew me into her realm. But in that moment we did not know how it would be." She chuckled. "It seems silly now but I was terrified of being left alone in this world without her, but I was so proud of her, of us, of the job she'd been granted."
"She wants to grow more World Trees, " Alexstrasza told him.
"Such a thing would be most welcome."
They spoke of Ysera's plans and speculated on what might happen with Garrosh. Chi-Ji spoke of the recovery that was ongoing in Pandaria and Alexstrasza spoke of the more personal aspects of her search. Chi-Ji wondered if perhaps he should join the archeologists for a season or two and she'd laughed. They were avoiding the harder, darker topics, but in the moment it was what Alexstrasza needed to hear. There had been enough death and destruction today.
And yet there'd been an odd peace in Xuen's temple, as if no one quite knew what to do next and had no desire to start another fight. Alexstrasza returned to her family the following morning, waiting for word from her sister.
When word came, it was not a summons to join Ysera in the Emerald Dream, but for a happier purpose; She would assist in the growing of a Word Tree on Theramore island. For the ritual they enlisted the aid of not only Malfurion Stormrage, but Farseer Nobundo. Ysera and Malfurion had determined that the aid of a Shaman to help prepare the ground and strengthen the tree's connection to Azeroth would be beneficial.
The memorial to those lost was solemn. Prince Anduin had conducted the service. Alexstrasza had waited quietly beside her sister, Nozdormu, Malfurion and Nobundo. Kalecgos would make their number complete, but he stood behind his mate for now. The two were closer than they'd been at the start of the trial. Jaina was preoccupied with her own thoughts and memories but she leaned back against Kalec as the tears fell. Kalec stood in support, his eyes on Jaina, watching her with love and concern.
The humans finished their ceremony and Prince Anduin stood before the crowd once more. "Before we close, I have been told there is one left who wishes to speak on behalf of many, to the Lady of Theramore."
Jaina's eyes grew wide as she looked up then around. Kalec took her hand and spoke quietly. Alexstraza and the others took this as their cue and stood behind him..
"You told me you wished to see this place look less scarred and more alive." His tone was soft as were his eyes.
Jaina nodded mutely.
"With your permission, Lady Jaina, we would like to do that for you. Give this place some new life and begin to heal the land here."
Jaina looked from one face to the other then nodded again.
Kalecgos bowed solemnly to Jaina then turned to the others. The Archdruid opened the box he'd been carrying and Ysera lifted out a small sapling. The party of three moved to the center crater of the island, walking down the slope with careful steps. The others arranged themselves in an incomplete circle around it.
Nobundo called to water and the pool receded into the soil, revealing mud and green algae. With careful hands the shaman and druid dug a shallow hole and the green dragon settled the sapling. Then the druid, the shaman, and the dragons took up equidistant spots around the tree and began to cast a spell.
Nobundo began a steady chant, a solid cadance like a heartbeat or the crashing waves of the nearby shoreline. The ground trembled under their feet and the soil grew more brown and healthy looking as he dropped his earth and water totems. Spirits, called by his will, manifest then sank into the ground. Soon the crater was full of healthy brown mud and the barest suggestion of earth spirits moving under the soil.
Malfurion's part involved more lyrical chanting, his deep voice whispered between the shaman's deeper tones like a breeze through leaves. Where he stood, the scrubby grass, which had only just begun to grow, became verdant and thick. Around the tree too, green things began to emerge from the dark mud.
The dragons joined the casting. The deep blue and violet of Kalec's arcane magic formed sigils and circles around him, precise, orderly and intricate. Around Alexstrasza, circles within circles of orange-red light formed, each glyph seeming to flicker and move with it's own inner life, like flames. Ysera's power was green and vibrant with the warmth of spring and renewal but the savage power of Nature. Nozdormu's golden magic looked like sand and wind, time and change, glittering like gold in the overcast light. The magic circles intertwined and intersected as they formed in ethereal patterns around the crater, the casters and the little tree planted in the center.
Then they began to sing in counterpoint to the chanting. The dragons began to sing in counterpoint to the chanting. The words were drawn from the magic they conjured, the words a mixture of the language the Titans have used as well as the draconic they had used since their ascension. It felt wonderful to work together like this once more. A part of Alexstrasza not focused on wielding the Fires of Life mourned that Neltharion and Malygos were not present. But she rejoiced that Kalecgos had joined them and that they'd found such wonderful support among the shaman and druids.
The voices of the dragons blended with Malfurion and Nobundo's deep basso chanting as they continued to weave their spell, drawing on the spirits, nature, the arcane, time and life itself. The sapling in the crater began to grow.
The ground shuddered and rippled as the tree's roots spread out wide and deep, anchoring it into the earth at the edge of the sea. The trunk thickened as it grew upwards, its branches stretching towards the sky, leaves unfurling into dark green. The ground shifted under the now thick carpet of grass as the land reformed and rose, evening out the crater as the tree reached upwards.
Soon everyone was no longer standing at the edge of a crater, but near the top of a small hill. At the center, where her tower had been, stood a majestic tree with deep red bark, sturdy branches and green leaves. Buds formed and opened into flowers the color of magic, filling the air with a sweet scent. The blossoms, in fact the whole tree, seemed to vibrate with energy, a blending of the power used by the casters standing around the base.
The song continued for several moments more as the ground and the tree seemed to solidify, as if the tree had been there for ages instead of minutes. The height the tree reached was near the height her tower had been. The broad branches sheltered the area which had seen the most devastation. Then the voices began to slow, the casters stepping away from their work as a settled feeling fell over the crowd. Kalecgos ended his casting as the others did, the final notes harmonizing. The spell ended. The crowd was silent save for the crash of the waves against the shore and the slight creak of the tree's branches as they caught in the wind.
The dragons, shaman and druid bowed to the new tree then to one another then approached the small gathering of survivors; Jaina, the few minders and the children who'd been taken to safety before the initial attack.
Malfurion extended a hand to Jaina and she reached out, placing her hand in his. He turned her palm upwards and placed a dainty pink blossom there. He stepped back to stand near Tyrande. Alexstrasza approached with her sister.
"We cannot replace what was lost here, Lady Jaina," she said with sincere sadness. "But we can heal the land and memorialize what had been built here, and the lives of those who died here. We can choose life over death." She gently closed Jaina's fingers over the delicate looking flower and held her hands. She tilted her head slightly and smiled kindly. "Out of the ashes and darkness new life can begin." There was hope here. Perhaps some of Chi-Ji's power lingered within them both.
"This is a cutting from Nordrassil, grafted to one of the great oaks from the shrine of my sister's flight," Ysera told Jaina who let out a small gasp.
"It is uncorrupted by Staghelm's machinations and has been carefully tended by the combined efforts of the guardians in Hyjal and my own flight. Few places in the world can sustain a daughter tree such as this one. Theramore, which has seen such devastation and ruin, has been transformed into one such a place."
Ysera glanced back at the tree then returned her gaze to Jaina. "This tree is named Falahdrassil. Thank you for allowing her to watch over your island, Lady Jaina."
Alexstrasza bowed her head closer and spoke quietly. "I hope you may one day find some measure of peace here, Jaina."
She nodded. "This is beyond... Thank you."
"Thank your mate. None of us would have thought it was a possibility if Kalec hadn't mentioned that a sapling might be able to take root here, and that such a thing might be welcome." Ysera told her.
"He has a remarkable gift for inspiring others to do the right thing," Alexstrasza mused.
Jaina laughed, though it was slightly watery. "He does, doesn't he?"
"You have as well," Alexstrasza told her. "I know you helped him to help the rest of us." What the human mage had done for the elder Aspects was something she wasn't certain she could ever repay - even if she never found a solution to their Sorrow.
"Azeroth needs you. You all have so much to teach," Jaina said, blue eyes wide and honest.
"As it needs people like you," Alexstrasza told her, placing a hand on either shoulder. "You are growing out of the ashes as well and I am grateful we have not lost another soul to darkness." On impulse, she leaned forward and placed a motherly kiss on Jaina's brow. "Be kind to yourself, little seedling." She'd lost so much. The burning hatred was gone but there was a hollow sadness that had not yet healed over. Alexstrasza recognized the expression; She'd had it often enough.
"I will do my best."
"Our best is all we can do in the end," Alexstrasza said. She withdrew to speak quietly with Nobundo.
"Farseer. Thank you for your help."
"I was pleased to do so," the old Shaman said, a small smile gracing his lips. He closed his eyes and breathed in then out. "This was good work today."
"It was."
"Ysera mentioned she will have much work for myself or another Shaman in the future."
Alexstrasza looked over. "She told you if the troubles we face?"
The Shaman's expression grew more grim. "She did, indeed. She mentioned you surce for a cure."
"I do."
"Then I wish you good hunting. Should you require my aid, I would be pleased to assist."
"I- thank you, Farseer." Alexstrasza exchanged bows with the shaman. She and Nobundo shared a companionable silence. A small commotion drew her attention. Jaina was squared off against Vereesa Windrunner.
"You can't-"
"I can," Jaina said, her voice wavering. "This is still my home. My territory. I still make the rules here."
"Jaina-" Vereesa cut herself off, hands fisted.
"Giramar might be a mage. Galadin might be a ranger. They might both become bakers. They should be as welcome here as well as any druid, shaman or green dragon," Jaina said.
Windrunner nodded once, sharply. "I suppose you are empowered to do as you wish in your own territory."
Jaina swallowed. Kalec took a half step closer on her right. Varian Wrynn was a second presence on her left.
Then the elf turned on her heel and called her sons down. They went, more excited about the magic they'd witnessed and the tree they had climbed all over, than they were sad about the reason they had come to Theramore. The same mage who'd brought them to the island whisked them back to Dalaran.
Jaina watched them leave, then stepped back between Kalec and Varian. Kalec's hand engulfed hers. Varian put a hand on her shoulder briefly. Anduin stepped close to Jaina as well. Nozdormu had already departed but Alexstrasza drifted closer, curious and concerned. Others had followed, drawn by the tense standoff between the two women.
"My flight will certainly abide by your rules in your territory, Lady Spell Weaver," Ysera said, amusement coloring her voice, as she gave Jaina the proper title used by the Prime Consort of the Aspect of Magic. Though Ysera's tease was mostly directed at Kalecgos, her sister was not insulting Jaina. Kalec strangled a sound of indignation and surprise. Alexstrasza pursed her lips against a laugh and watched the blue. His cheeks had gone quite red. Kalecgos was not very comfortable in his title and his relationship with the human mage still new, but he wouldn't have been this embarrassed if Ysera hadn't touched on something.
Narrowing her eyes, Jaina fixed Ysera with a hard look. "You will, or you will not be welcome either. This island has seen too much conflict and death. I will abide no more."
The ground under their feet crunched. Frost coated the new grass. Jaina exhaled and the frost evaporated. She shivered a little as she released the power she'd gathered.
Ysera inclined her head, as deeply as she would to the mate of another Aspect, according the Lady of Theramore proper rank for the venue as well as for her place with Kalec. Ysera glanced aside at Alexstrasza who needed no words or gesture to convey how very much she approved of the entire conversation. Ysera's eyes gleamed in both mischief and pride; if Jaina was taking charge of the Tree even moments after it's planting then that spoke well for it's future. Her sister spoke for them both, her tone formal. "It will be as you say among the dragon flights."
"And among the shamans of the Earthen Ring," Nobundo said.
Malfurion glanced at his wife then bowed his head in agreement for the Cenarion Circle. Tyrande was the one who spoke. "The Night Elves will not shed blood here either. It is, as you said, a scared space." She did not sound entirely happy by the unspoken implication, but she was more willing to accept it than Vereesa had been.
Jaina looked up at Varian. He gave her the barest hint of a shrug. "This is your island," he said, his voice low. His eyes were hooded in concern, tight at the corners, but he did not deny her decision.
She nodded curtly, the hand not held shaking. She balled it into a fist. Jaina insead bowed courteously. She squeezed Kalec's fingers, tugging gently, then dropped his hand. She walked away from the group, clearly needing a moment.
"Well, that was interesting. I came late; did she just really declare this island a neutral space for anyone on Azeroth?" Alextrasza asked Ysera.
"She did indeed," Ysera said, perhaps a bit of smugness in her voice. "Kalec's found himself a fierce little thing. I should she was a mild sweetling of a mortal, but there's fire in her blood."
Alexstrasza covered a laugh with a hand. "There is indeed. It's a bit inspiring."
"Mmm," Ysera murmured agreement. "Come sister. Race you to Hyjal."
The sisters left, their scales flashing in the sun as they circled the site once then flew away on iridescent wings.
They returned to the Emerald Dream, the hunt beginning in earnest.
They searched high and low, Ysera using what remaining connection she had with the Emerald Dream to send their spirits soaring at speeds even faster than what Alexstrasza had experienced before. As they descended, the topography of the world grew more indistinct.
Layers upon layers of the Emerald dream gave way under their spectral wings, each level less concrete than the one prior. Multiple versions began to coexist and Alexstrasza realized she was seeing the potential of the land itself; Mountains and valleys overlaid on another as glaciers covered cities and sandy beached became broad plains or deserts became river valleys. It was dizzying and disorienting. Her sister's glowing form was the constant and she followed. Then the world became more and more fathomless mist, where the land itself loomed and disappeared like ships on water. Currents formed. Rivers pushed them and undertows pulled at their wings. It was simultaneously cold and hot. Pressure began to weigh them down as if they'd travelled to the deepest reaches of the sea.
"Have you ever been this deep into the dream?" Alexstrasza asked her sister as they hovered above what looked like it might have been a sliver of the Vale.
"Once, and I did not go much further than this," Ysera said. "I wish I'd gone deeper when I held my Mantle. I might be more useful now."
Alexstrasza crooned. "You have taken me further than I ever believed the Dream went." The world shuddered around them and they were pulled by another riptide of force. "This appears to be very dangerous."
"We could go mad staying down here. Our conscious minds could be ripped apart by these forces," Ysera said, almost offhandedly as she peered into the grey mist around them. "Our physical bodies are within the Dream which is what allows us to go this far at all."
"Perhaps we should turn back."
"There's still further to go!" Ysera began to fly downwards.
"Sister!" Alexstrasza called as Ysera's form faded from view briefly.
Ysera rose. "Come on!"
"Sister it is becoming hard to follow you."
"I will continue,"
"No! I have no desire to lose you too. Have we not had enough mad dragons?"
Ysera paused her slightly downward sink. She rose again. "Perhaps you are correct." She shook her head. "I just- I wish I could reach her. I wish I had."
"We'll find a way," Alexstrasza said as another tidal wave of force blew them around. She lunched and grabbed for her sister's tail, holding on with her forepaws as they were buffeted. They'd been drawn further downwards and the feeling of bone-crushing pressure grew as phantom landmasses and lights light up the mists like lightning. The force stopped and the two sister righted themselves.
"You are right," Ysera said. "We should go ba- ACK! Alexstrasza!" This time it was Ysera who lunged for her sister. The two grabbed one another and held on as they were tossed around by phantom winds. One moment they were biting cold, the next, searing heat, and everything in between.
"We need to get out!" Alexstrasza said. A pulling sensation was dragging at her tail and wings. she tightened her grip on her sister's forelimbs and managed to grab ahold of ysera with one of her rear feet as well.
"Together! Fly upwards!" Ysera directed, wings pumping against the undertow.
Alexstrasza joined her and their descent slowed. She felt as if they were suspended in place, their efforts to move utterly fruitless. Alexstrasza's wings grew heavy and tired before they managed to break free from the pulling sensation. The pair of dragons suddenly shot upwards through the mists, free of the fathomless depths of the dream. Alexstrasza's relief was mirrored on her sister's face as they rose. Their ascent slowed as they put distance between themselves and danger. They rose, their conscious projections returning towards their bodies.
Alexstrasza opened her eyes and found her mouth was dry and tacky, her physical body screaming for her to attend its various needs. "Gyah," she said elegantly.
"Merf," her sister agreed.
The two sisters emerged from the Emerald Dream, took care of their neglected bodies then flopped together at the edge of the Well of Eternity.
Three weeks had passed in their entirety.
Their flights had been concerned by the length of their trip and had fussed, waiting on their every need and feeding them delicious mountain goat and fresh fish. The sisters had slept; actual real, restoring sleep, another day after. Now they lazed together on the bank of the Well, the water softly lapping at the shore. Their flights had given them some space now it was clear neither had been harmed in their adventure.
Ysera sighed. "I am sorry I was unable to rouse Her."
"The plan is still good, it's just a matter of finding a way to execute it," Alexstrasza said. She put a wing over her sister's back. "I am certain if there was a way to reach her in the Dream, you would have been successful."
Ysera huffed and tucked her head against her sister's shoulder. "Still."
Alexstrasza nudged her. "Keep doing your work here. I feel it's important, no matter what happens. This is a good thing you are doing. If you should need any of my help you only need to ask."
"I will. The tree in Theramore is growing well. At the trial I had occasion to speak with some of the Pandaren. Perhaps my people and the druids can assist their shamen in clearing the Vale for the next one. But what will you do next?" Ysera asked. "Your work is just as important."
"I'm not certain. Who else might have the ability to communicate with a still forming Titan?"
"It is out of Nozdormu's realm and we have tried the means I know of. Perhaps Kalecgos?"
"Speaking with souls isn't something the Arcane typically deals with."
"A fair point," Ysera conceded. She gazed across the waters for a time before she spoke again. "Have you considered the Earthen Ring?"
"The shamen? Azeroth is not an elemental lord."
"No but she is a spirit isn't she? The Tauren know her as the Earth Mother and created the Earthen Ring to balance the elemental spirits specifically to protect her."
Surprised, blinked at Ysera. "I didn't know know you had an interest in them or knew so much," Alexstrasza said.
Ysera shrugged both sets of shoulders, her wings rustling. "I have tried to pay more attention to the world beyond the Dream of late. It was Cenarius who suggested I contact the Shamen for help with the Trees and Nobundo has proven his powers are profound. He was assisted by both the Earthen Ring and the Cenarion circle to help subdue Ragnaros."
The green tilted her head in thought, eyes closed, brow furrowed. "There was something... Something about the formation of this world and the spirits that Cenarius and Muln Earthfury discussed. Azeroth might be the Spirit of Life, in which case she could be contacted." She shook her head. "I do not recall as I was far more concerned with what Deathwing was doing."
"As were we all."
"Still, my point stands. We have nothing left to lose."
"Cynical if accurate." And there was maybe something there. She recalled the words last spoken to her by the Farseer; they had been an offer of help.
Ysera nudged her sister. "Was it not you who told me that Hope is all that remains when you have nothing left?"
"I think it was Chi-Ji but the point is made."
Ysera stood and shook out her wings and stretched her limbs. "Speaking of the Red Crane, I believe that yes, next I will see what I might be able to do about the Vale."
"I am sure you will find many helpers. Myself included."
The two exchanged a quick embrace and said their farewells. Alexstrasza flew into the air, her escort taking up positions around her.
Alexstrasza stretched her wings against the thermal, enjoying the flow of air over her scales. She had a small escort flying at a respectful distance but she expected no trouble as she sailed over Mulgore. A wild herd of Kodo clustered defensively as her shadow crossed them, but she passed the great beasts without a second glance. She approached the tall bluffs at a sedate pace, giving the watchers ample time to see her before she swept in to land on the plain below the city.
Alexstrasza shook her wings one last time then shifted shape as the first tauren braves approached. Instead of her usual elf form she shifted into another form she loved but used seldom these days.The braves paused for only a moment as she became not a high elf, but a tauren like they were.
Alexstrasza's fur in this form was the dark crimson of a banked fire and seemed to smoulder in the noon sun. She had a mane of long, curling red hair which had been adorned with little gold beads. She wore the four horns of her dragon form, but shortened to a more tauren size. Gold and gems dangled from each. Her mobile ears had many gold piercings. They flicked and twisted, catching the sounds of a festival going on in the city above. She wore finery, but it was adjusted to match this form; less plate armor and more soft natural fabrics in red and purple. An amethyst and gold tail cuff caught the light as it swung behind her. She stepped forward to greet the braves, slightly taller than the tallest male. Her golden eyes swept over the group and she smiled and held her hands to either side, open in a gesture of peace and greeting.
"Life-Binder," the lead bluff watcher greeted her with a deep bow. "What brings you to Thunder Bluff?"
Alexstrasza inclined her head slightly to the leader. "I wish to speak with the leaders of the Earthen Ring and I was informed they are here currently." She gestured to the top of the mesa. "I was told there was a festival going on today. I hope I am not interrupting?" Her brief stop at their last known location had sent her here.
"Not at all," The brave gestured for her to walk beside him on the path. Their long legs ate up the distance as they approached the lifts.
"What is the reason for the celebration?"
"For the next three days we celebrate the joining of Baine Bloodhoof to his new lifemate, Kaleetha Plainswatcher," the brave explained.
Alexstraza's ears perked in surprise. "Oh! How wonderful for them! Perhaps I should return later," she said, trying to hide the disappointment she'd felt.
"Life-Binder, I am certain that my High Chief would welcome you of all dragons to the celebrations of our people." He gestured to the lift platforms with a small smile. "Please, join us."
Alexstrasza nodded and took the lift to the top of the mesa. The sounds of revelry grew louder as they ascended. Spring was still many weeks away and so the Tauren had decorated with great boughs of evergreen branches, ribbons, streamers, new paint and garlands of feathers. Chimes of bone, wood and metal twisted in the strong breeze. She could hear the laughter of children and several chased one another on the far side of a small pond. Other groups flew kites off the edges of the tall bluffs. The adults were gathered in groups around fires and kegs and tables of food. The whole city had turned out for the festival and many visiting people from the other races of the Horde as well. She was not surprised to see groups of trolls and orcs, but there were even the occasional blood elves.
"If you are looking for the representatives of the Earthen Ring they will be with the wedding party," the brave explained as they crossed the mesa. "Kaleetha is a well-respected Shaman."
She was led through the city to Spirit Rise where the ceremony had taken place. Many members of Horde races allied with the Tauren were in attendance, especially here where the wedding party and their guests feasted. Vol'Jin lounged with some of his people to one side and though she did not see Lor'themar, she did see many Blood elves. There was a single Forsaken who had no doubt been sent in Sylvanis' place for politeness sake as she knew the Tauren had little love for the undead.
There were a large number of shamen from the Earthen Ring present which wasn't surprising to her now she knew Baine had married one of their members. Alexstrasza suspected she must have been highly placed in the loose organization of the Earthen Ring for so many of their leadership to have attended. Among them were Thrall, Go'el, she mentally corrected herself and his lifemate Aggra. To her surprise Farseer Nobundo sat beside Muln Earthfury. Though the so-called "broken" were nominally aligned with their Draenei brothers and the Alliance, he and the old tauren sat together chatting like old friends.
Aggra, heavy with child, looked up sharply as Alexstrasza passed as did Nobundo. She saw the confusion turn to a flash of recognition on both of their faces. She smiled at them and inclined her head slightly as she passed the low tables filled with food for feasting revelers.
Under an arch of evergreen boughs, Baine sat with his new lifemate. The tauren shamen had eyes the color of the sky and pale cream colored fur with grey-brown patches. Her long brown hair had been done in many intricate braids and pinned into flowing loops with small clasps of ivory and metal. She wore a dress of flowing greens and a crown of flowers and buds. As Alexstrasza approached the bride also looked up, eyes narrowing then widening in surprise as she too recognized Alexstrasza. Baine tilted his head in question and rose, picking up on the behavior of his new mate.
"Business, Hod?" Baine questioned.
The brave, Hod, bowed. "My chief, may I present Alexstrasza the Life-Binder. She seeks audience with the leadership of the Earthen Ring."
Baine's ears flicked back and forth in surprise. He bowed at the waist. "Life-Binder. You are most welcome here in Thunder Bluff. May I introduce my lifemate, Kaleetha." Both Tauren had the tender look of new love and Alexstrasza beamed, the rings on her tail clicking as she gave it a happy little swish.
"My congratulations to you, Baine and Kaleetha Bloodhoof," Alexstrasza said, inclining her head. "I was told the leadership of the Earthen Ring was present on Thunder Bluff for a festival but I am delighted to find it is for your joining ceremony. I do not wish to disrupt your day."
"When a dragon comes to speak with we of the younger races, it usually means something important is going on," Kaleetha said, taking Baine's arm. "When it is the queen of the dragons then it must be very important indeed. What may the Earthen Ring do to assist the Dragonflights?"
Alexstrasza touched a hand to her heart. "A somewhat selfish and personal matter. While it is time sensitive it is nothing that cannot wait."
"You have come all this way, though," Kaleetha said. "That says to me it is worth hearing and addressing sooner."
Baine exchanged a look with his mate then smiled at the dragon. "Please be welcome at our feast. Eat and celebrate with us today and speak with the Earthen Ring tonight."
"My thanks. May your union be long and happy," she said, stepping back to allow them to resume their wedding festival. She thought she would depart and return in the evening. Perhaps she would have one of her escorts find a suitable gift.
"Life-Binder," Go'el said, drawing her attention. "Please join us," he invited.
She considered it for a brief moment then decided why not? Go'el had stood by the Dragonflights bravely during the Calaclysm and his mate appeared to be cut from the same cloth. She'd spoken only a little with Aggra but had found herself liking the orc female. Alexstrasza smiled and took a seat, soon finding food and a large mug of ale placed before her.
"I have not seen you take this form before," Go'el said, his tone very careful. Alexstrasza laughed and sampled the ale, finding it to be quite good.
"I haven't worn this form in some time, but it felt correct since I was going into tauren territory during a tauren festival. I hope they do not mind."
"They seem quite honored," Aggra spoke up from Go'el's other side. "It is good to see you again, Life-Binder."
"You look well, Aggra. Your second is due soon, correct?"
The orc woman laughed. "Not soon enough for me. I am quite done with this part." She grimaced and pressed a hand to her lower back.
Alexstrasza could not help the small sigh. She doubted she would have children of her own ever again, but perhaps with some help the others of her race would not be so affected.
"But such hardships are worth it for little ones," Aggra said, politely ignoring the dragon's small sigh. "That said I will be quite cross with you if it is not a girl this time, my heart." She gave Go'el a teasing smirk and patted his shoulder when he sputtered.
Alexstrasza laughed with Aggra. "Is your son with you?" Alexstrasza inquired.
"Oh, someplace over there," Aggra said, vaguely waving at the largest cluster of children romping in a clear space on the rise under the careful watch of several minders. "He'll be excited to see you again. You were all he could talk about after we last saw you in Pandaria." Aggra's light expression grew more serious as she continued, "I was concerned the battle might have left a dark impression but while it was frightening for a few days it has not had a lasting impact."
"I'm glad he recalls me and not the battle," Alexstrasza said. "But then he saw his parents ably fighting off strange and terrifying enemies. I imagine that would do much to make him feel secure."
The orc woman grinned, showing her teeth in a fierce smile. "I had half expected to see some variation of myself, but either Kairoz didn't consider me in his plans or there was no dark version which trusted him enough to come. In any case, I am glad my son didn't have to see both of his parents fight themselves."
"As it is, I do not think he recognized the other me," Go'el said. "I hardly did," he said, shaking his head.
"I am glad he only found one maddened dragon," Alexstrasza said, bowing her head slightly. "Kalec seemed to have handled his mad self quickly."
"A good thing or there would have been many more people for the Red Crane to raise. Perhaps too many even for him," Aggra agreed soberly.
"How is Kalecgos?" Go'el asked, "And the blues?"
"Well, last I spoke with him. Apparently warm waters and southern beaches are all the rage at the moment in the blue flight," she said with a small laugh. Likely the novelty would wear off in a few years, but she was personally glad to see the blue flight out and about and not wasting away in the Nexus.
"They aren't in Coldarra?" Go'el asked.
Alexstrasza shook her head. "No. The flight has largely dispersed across the world. Kalecgos himself spends most of his time in Dalaran with his mate, but he and I have seen one another as he keeps communication open to the rest of the blues. I have been doing a lot of travelling as of late and we have crossed paths."
Go'el nodded, falling into a pensive silence. Alexstrasza tilted her head, her ears flicking back. "Have I said something to offend?" she asked with quiet concern. She didn't know what possibly could have turned the cheerful orc to suddenly melancholy.
"You have not, Life-Binder. He mourns a lost friendship." Aggra put a hand on her mate's shoulder. "Have hope, my heart. While there is life there is the potential for change. You may still speak to Jaina as a friend yet, hm?"
Alexstrasza nodded in understanding. Jaina Proudmoore and the orc had been friends once. But like so much, Garrosh had ripped that friendship asunder.
"How are your reds?" Go'el asked.
Alexstrasza inclined her head. "We are... recovering as best we can. It has been good for us to have some time to regroup."
"But there is something amiss," Go'el said, brows furrowing.
She bowed her head. "Yes and no. You are now the leader of the Earthen Ring. I would make my case to your entire leadership, but if you would prefer we may speak of it now."
Go'el's brows rose in surprise then fell as he thought. "I think perhaps it would be best if you presented to us at once."
"Then I shall."
The dragon queen ate and celebrated with the others present until the sun began to sink low on the horizon. She was surprised by the number of people who did not seem to realize she was a dragon. It reminded her of before she had the mantle of Aspect when she'd been just another proto-drake. The simple joy of the celebration seemed to settle into her bones and fill her up the way the Red Crane's blessing had done. But then what were celebrations like these but expressions of hope?
As the sun kissed the mountains, the leadership of the Earthen Ring began to gather. Muln Earthfury smiled and escorted her to a circle of stones on the side of the plateau. Go'el escorted his mate with a watchful eye, but Aggra's footsteps were sure despite her gravid state and swaying gait. As much as his hovering might have mildly annoyed the orc woman, it was clear she appreciated his care and consideration. Alexstrasza felt a pang of love and sadness as she missed her Beloved.
At the circle they were joined by the other senior-most shamen of the Earthen Ring, including Farseer Nobundo, another tauren female, a green-skinned orc and a troll. Kaleetha, with Baine trailing behind, approached last. Introductions were made to the shamen she didn't know and there were some murmurs of surprise as she was introduced.
"I take it you have something to say in regards to the Sorrow of the Dragon flights," Nobundo said as they all settled down in a circle of blanket-draped stones around a low fire. The other Shamen could hear the slight emphasis on the word "Sorrow", the way Nobundo said it as a title, and they all sat forward, more curious than before.
"I do," she said, bowing her head. "It is something I have given much thought over the last few months. I have travelled the length and breadth of Azeroth, I have spoken with the Celestials of Pandaria, the Demigods of the Emerald Dream and even Titan Keepers. I believe I know what I must do, and I have come to ask for your aid." She bowed her head low in respect.
"What aid may we give to you?" Go'el asked without hesitation.
She smiled at his earnest desire to help, but she sensed the confusion.
"Perhaps you should explain, Mon," the troll, Je'neau, said to Nobundo. "You seem to know 'bout what de dragon queen speaks, but we don' know. Care to be entighten' us?"
Nobundo looked to her for permission and she granted it with a nod.
"When the Dragon Soul was used, the Aspects lost their power. It was necessary to defeat Deathwing. Go'el was untouched as he was not part of the original magics which created the Dragon Soul. That power had greater consequences than the Aspects losing their mantles. Alexstrasza and Ysera have spoken with me quietly about this before, and at their request I have remained silent." He paused, his warm eyes searching hers out and offering her the chance to speak.
"We are barren," Alexstrasza said, taking up the story. "Since the fall of Deathwing there have been no new nests. No new children."
The shamen reacted with surprise and dismay. Aggra even went so far as to reach out and put a hand on her shoulder. Alexstrasza patted Aggra's hand and smiled. When the shaman settled, the dragon addressed them again.
"It has been... hard. There are some dragons who view this as natural and inevitable. I myself thought that perhaps it was time for us to fade away into legend and memory. I have lost my great love and two I called brother. I have lost children and I lost the power that had sustained my flight for thousands of years." She bowed her head. "It was very hard for me to see I had any value to Azeroth until one much younger than I, one who still remembered life before he was an Aspect, reminded Nozdormu, my sister and I that we might have something left to offer the world."
"You have been the guardians of life for thousands of years," Kaleetha spoke up. "Of course you have much to offer in wisdom and guidance."
"Dragons be powerful even if you're not bein' Aspects no more," the troll agreed.
"It does not sit well with me that the reward of the Dragonflights is to fade away," Go'el said.
"Reward? Meddling dragons have caused more than one problem," another orc, Gromok, spoke up.
"And so did Garrosh," Aggra snapped. "So have the elves of this world I am given to understand. And they still live."
Gromok considered her words with pursed lips then nodded. "A fair point. However a dragon is the reason we are still dealing with wild and tortured elements even years after his demise."
"Deathwing's madness was the doing of the same dark forces that have turned the great Furies of this world," Nobundo spoke up. "And the Dragons have not stood idly by when the maddened black flight rose to kill others. The reds in particular have always been guardians of life."
"Why have you come to us today, Life-Binder?" Muln asked, his soft voice cutting through and ending the debate. He was no longer leader of the Earthen Ring, age had spurred him to pass the title, but he was still deeply respected. Gromok frowned in thought and bowed his head to the eldermost shaman. The others settled their murmurs and muttering, returning their attention to her.
"My people," Alexstrasza said, "have been cut from the natural cycles of life and death. Our life energy has been damaged. After speaking with the Keepers I have discovered this is an unintended consequence of sacrificing our power to defeat Deathwing after we'd already been damaged by the Demon Soul. There are some other extenuating circumstances at play according to the Keepers which have caused our condition." She shook her head. They did not need to be burdened with the knowledge that the Pantheon was likely dead.
"My wish at its simplest is for my people to continue. The age of the Aspects is over, but I have come to the conclusion it should not be a death sentence for the dragons. That we are so damaged is a mistake. The Shamen are connected to the spirits. For this reason I have come to you."
Alexstrasza took a deep breath before speaking again. "The Keepers I have spoken to assure me there is nothing they can do. However there may be one who has more power than they,a very great spirit, who may listen to my appeal."
Muln made a surprised sound. "You wish to speak to the Earthmother!" The others in the circle murmured surprise.
The dragon queen bowed her head. "I do."
Muln made a thoughtful sound and gazed into the fire for a moment before turning concerned eyes back to her. "Long have we felt impressions of her love and power, but no shaman has ever spoken to her directly."
Alexstrasza returned his look with a sad smile, acknowledging the difficulty of the task. "I believe she is the only power who might possibly be able to reverse the damage. We have tried contacting her through other means to no avail. To speak with her, I believe I will need the assistance of Shamen. No one else has been able to help. My sister suggested that she might very well be the Spirit of Life and like with the other Elemental Lords, you may be able to help me reach her."
Nobundo made a thoughtful sound. "While your suggestion still bears merit, The Earthmother is not the same as the Spirit of Life, should such an elemental Lord exist on this world. The Spirit of Life is more ephemeral than the others and on Azeroth more so than in Outland or this new younger Draenor. We feel it and entreat it, but like the Earthmother, none of us have spoken to it as a manifestation. We can feel the Spirit's will appear but it is difficult to appeal to it directly."
Alexstrasza bowed her head. "I have nothing else to try. No arcane magics of the blues has saved us. There is no illness for me to heal. We cannot steal eggs from the past or we will sentence those children to the same fate and the bronzes are quite against the potential for cataclysmic paradoxes. The druids protect life but their power hasn't been able to restore us. Ysera cannot find a solution within the Emerald Dream and has not been able to reach the Earth Mother directly.. I have spoken with Cenarius and the Celestials. They have not been able to help."
She looked at each member in the circle. "Because of Deathwing and the wounds he caused, I have been reluctant to bother the Shamen of Azeroth. We have not been innocent of harm."
"None of us are," Go'el said, his deep voice very gentle.
"But is it the natural course for the dragons to fade?" the second tauren female, Torra, asked. The question was blunt, but Alexstrasza did not hear rancor in the her words.
"If it is, then we will not be successful," Go'el said. "Should we stand idly by while an entire race dies? They kept the balance for eons, as we seek to do now. Should we not stand with other guardians?"
There was murmuring and chatter as the debate continued. Alexstrasza sat and listened, willing to accept what was decided.
"Did you have something in mind?" Aggra asked her as the others discussed and debated around them.
"Spring comes soon. That is our usual mating season. The power of the reds was always at its height in spring when Life is strongest," she said. "It feels right to attempt to commune then. Ysera has tried her hardest but she cannot rouse the Earthmother in the Emerald Dream. I think since I was the Aspect of Life for so long I may have the next best chance of making contact among dragons, but I cannot do it alone. I thought if she as the elemental lord of Life itself I might have a better chance. To hear she is not and that I might not have that connection to draw on is disappointing."
Aggra made a thoughtful sound, her hand running over her stomach. "Have hope, Alexstrasza. The timing of your plan makes much sense. I would return home to Nagrand and see what might be known by the Shamen there. They may have insight for us, or perhaps even another solution. Life runs rampant there in ways it does not on Azeroth, despite the Legion's forces. On the unspoiled Draenor there might even be more clues as the elements are even stronger! The Frostwolves would lend their air should we but ask."
"Do you think the Earthen Ring will assist us? After all dragons have done to upset the world?"
"We must stand together, Life-Binder," Baine Bloodhoof said, joining their quiet conversation. "I am no shaman, but it strikes me as unnatural for your entire race to cease." He shook his head slowly. "It feels wrong. The Earthmother would not abandon her children in this way. She will not abandon you when you call for her aid."
"Shaman you may not be," Kaleetha said, "but you understand clearly." She pressed a kiss to the side of her new lifemate's head and Baine smiled somewhat shyly, the insides of his ears pinking in a blush. Kaleetha regarded Alexstrasza with a smile.
Go'el rose and the others quieted. He looked around the circle of faces. "We are missing our representatives from the Goblins and Dwarves, but we have the numbers to decide here and now if we will assist Alexstrasza. I have been your leader for the past few years, but this is an elder council. I would hear your thoughts before we decide."
There was murmuring and nodding from the others. Go'el nodded back and sat, bowing his head to Muln in a silent request for his thoughts.
The older tauren rose to his hooves with a heavy sigh. "If it is the will of the Earthmother that the Dragons continue, then we will be successful. There is only benefit to us if we ask. We are guides and healers as the Dragons have also been for ages. This is one more wound for us to heal. Life-Binder, you have my sympathy and my support." He bowed to her then regarded the other Shamen in the circle and gestured for Torra to speak.
"The dragons have withheld from us. They have treated us with disdain and derision. Only recently have they come forward to ask for assistance and that was due to the end of the world," the dark-furred Tauren woman stated. "That said, their queen comes to us humbly. She has long been a friend of life and balance. There are others among the dragonflights who have similarly been kind and willing to share the burdens of this world. The dragons have been brought to their lowest and will die without intervention. If we claim to be healers of the world, we owe it to Azeroth to make the attempt or our claims are nothing but air." She nodded to the troll as she sat. "Je'neau?"
"If de loa want dem to continue, dey will. We don' have the right to decide if de dragons live or die. I say we bring the problem to de loa an' let dem decide. Maybe we get baby dragons. Maybe we don'," he said with a shrug. "If no, we tried. If we get baby dragons, den we still have some powerful mojo on our side de next time de Old Gods or de Legion come crawling out to eat us." He nodded at Kaleetha.
Baine's new lifemate rose, the little bells on the bottom of her dress clinking in the falling darkness. "I see a proud people who have been torn and ravaged by civil war. They are not perfect but none of us are. I agree it is not our place to decide if the dragons live or die. I would personally hope for their continued existence. We proved ourselves during the Cataclysm. I even made friends among the dragons I have fought beside. They have been remote and melancholy and now I understand why. I say we make the attempt. Either it will not work, or it will. Either way, we will have once again proven ourselves friends. Azeroth still needs defenders and guardians and I for one would rather have as many friends at my side as possible." She nodded and sat down.
Gormok rose. "We have proven better friends to the dragons than they to us." He scowled. "But your words have made me think," he said, nodding to Kaleetha and the troll, Je'neau. "It isn't our place to decide if they live or die. I support the attempt. I will also hope that finally it might get into a few thick draconic skulls that we of the lesser races aren't so far beneath them." He gave Alexstrasza a pointed look. She winced. He nodded once, his point made, and waved at Aggra.
"I come from a broken world that did not have the benefit of such protectors as the Aspects and their flights have been for Azeroth," Aggra said, not bothering to rise from her seat. She ran a hand over her belly as she spoke, her tone strong and fierce. "On Draenor, you learn quickly that you must stand together or fall. Speaking as an outsider I see the younger races rising to prominence so they might help with protection of this world. This fact was acknowledged by the flight leaders when Go'el stood for the Earth-Warder. If it is the will of the spirits that we take up the task alone, I will mourn the loss of the dragons. All of us are needed when we have such enemies as these Old Gods or the Legion. Make the attempt and Spirits willing we will all live to see Azeroth thrive." She bowed her head, her piece done.
Farseer Nobundo spoke next. "I have had the benefit of being able to consider this question for some time," he said as he rose to his feet. "It was not the dragons who caused the troubles we face, but the Old Gods who infected one who was once a protector of Azeroth. Before he was Deathwing, he was Neltharion, the Earth-Warder. Of all the dragons he was closest to the Elements and it was through the earth that evil and Darkness crept upon him."
"When he was discovered, the dragons did their best to contain his madness, though they were savaged by their own civil war and the blue flight nearly wiped out in a single blow. I believe the Sorrow faced now to be an extension of this war." Nobundo bowed his head. "I too wish to see this world protected as best can be done. I fear the dangers that lurk in the outer darkness may destroy us as Draenor was. As Argus was." He lifted his head towards the sky where the two moons had risen.
"Azeroth is my home now and I would see it protected in as many ways as can be found. Surely Azeroth herself will see this should we be successful." Nobundo looked at Go'el. "Let us make the attempt." He sat down once more.
Go'el rose. "As always I find the words of this council to be wise and understanding. I agree it is not our place to decide the fate of the dragons. If there is life for them to be had, then it is our duty to heal this wound before we lose more lives." He smiled at Alexstrasza. "And I do not like the idea that those who were guardians for millennia could be cast aside in such an ignoble way. That an entire people could simply fade because they survived the prophesied end of the world does not sit well with me. They deserve to finally be the masters of their own fates and that can only be done if they are with us in the cycle of life and death."
Alexstrasza's ears perked and she felt a trembling hope in her chest.
"We will help you, Life-Binder. Spirits willing, your people will live," Go'el said.
Alexstrasza stood and bowed deeply to the group. "On behalf of my people, thank you."
The shamen bowed in return.
"You have protected and helped us," Go'el told her. "It is our honor to help you."