The Winter War: Part 3 - New Allies New Challenges
The meticulously crafted, magical amulet glinted in Beve's hand as she half twirled around the cavern her father was holding his familial court in. Just outside one could hear the sounds of revelry at a successful raid, the cheers of brigands and nobles alike echoing into the night.
"Oh this is beautiful, if they can craft such wonders easily then they shall be fine allies indeed," Beve said, looking back to her father and brother.
Aliden was leaning against the wall and scoffed, "Yes, I am sure the trolls can teach you much about magic, sister."
"Aliden," her father intoned firmly from his seat upon stacked rocks and fine leather.
"It is quite all right father, I know my bother never learned to do more than swing a sword, this must be confusing for you dear," she mocked. "But I assure you, as someone who was able to study the notes we took from Medivh's Spell Book and who had the wit to understand then, I can recognize fine craftsmanship when I see it."
"Such a shame you couldn't keep such a relic," Aliden said, clearly trying to divert her attention.
Their father shrugged, "Fate giveth and fate taketh away. Beve, you trust it?"
"Oh yes, the runes absorb arcane energy you see, and guide it into the enchanted crystal that holds the spell, but neither one alone is a completed spell, very intriguing," she mused.
Clapping his hands the once and future king of Alterac nodded, "We shall contact our man in Lordaeron then and arrange a meeting."
"Is that wise, father, he could be a useful spy?" Beve noted.
"He could be," The older man intoned, "But I also cannot have us projecting anything but strength and if we come forward with this early, he will not suspect our other agents."
Neither some or daughter felt enthused, but they bowed their heads all the same, "Yes, father."
Malakk strode through the fallen throne room, now cleaned of rubble but soon to be gaining dust as it was remodeled. Comfortable ceremonial robes flowing around his frame, he marched through the impressive entryway and into the evening sunlight.
'
The skies are lovely here, so clear, if a little bright,' Even still the faint chill on the air was nothing to home and part of him missed the dark clouds and rippling skies. '
But nothing to do about it save win quickly, is there?' He mused.
His gaze drifted across the city, snow flecked roofs mingled with bronzed and white stone, the rubble was cleared and the damage well on its way to be repaired everywhere save for the palace itself. Seeing a now familiar carriage rolling towards him, Malakk checked his time piece and nodded,
'I have a moment,' he thought, awaiting their arrival.
Tallest among the carriages occupants was De'jana, tan skin and bright blue hair contrasting with her gold and red uniform. Meanwhile, bedecked in emerald green and gold was Lordaeron's former queen who rode on the other side of the carriage, almost swallowed by its size.
A mane of dark golden hair flowed around her sharp features, held back by a newly crafted circlet in Lordaeron and Drakkari colors. Hands resting in her lap as the carriage came to a stop before him, she looked to him and blinked owlishly.
"Welcome back, Queen Councilor," He offered warmly.
"Ah… Frost King Malakk, my apologies for not greeting you," She murmured, as the carriage door swung open by De'jana's hand. The human very faintly accepted his hand, more a single finger as she stepped down onto the palace road and curtsied.
"It is of no concern; I take it your day was long and trying?" Malakk answered, stepping back, and giving her space and motioning for his guards to do the same, her own guard remained in the carriage, while De'jana organized their itinerary.
"Indeed, it was, however you will be pleased with the result," She said, tone bereft of enthusiasm as she added. "The townships outside the capital have been calmed and return to their lives, they will also accept the foodstuffs and supplies sent to them and pay their taxes as normal."
"Marvelous work, both of you, I am humbled by your efforts," He commended. "Please, take a rest and anything you desire shall be prepared for you. Tomorrow is expected to be quite an eventful day."
Lianne looked tired, but eying his clothes and glancing around briefly she added, "Are you on your way to a meeting, Frost King?"
"Indeed, I am, it should be of little concern to you as it harkens to our allies in Northrend."
There was a moment of brief consideration before Lianne bowed her head momentarily and said, "If your intention is to… induct this land into your empire should I not be made familiar with these allies?"
Malakk chuckled and De'jana added, "A flawless argument, would you not say my liege?"
"Indeed so, Queen Counselor. If you would be so kind a to join me then? I must forewarn we are going to speak with the Nerubians,"
She froze briefly before swallowing and shuffling to his side, "I must grow accustomed to my duties," was her answer and Malakk nodded.
'A strong soul,' he mused as they took off, guards and De'jana falling in around with the guards, all a respectful distance as they marched to the library.
Lianne had seen the creatures before, had watched their familiars swarm and attack those fleeing the capital in the tunnels. Yet still nothing ever prepared her for the sight before her.
A Nerubian.
"Aaah, Seer Ixit" Malakk proclaimed grandly, arms held wide as if to embrace the red tinged monster that looked to be a blend of spider and praying mantis as they strode into the grand royal library.
Lianne hid her instinctive revulsion, but a shiver still ran across her spine at the sight of not just one but several of the creatures skittering about the library could not be stopped. Their bulbous bodies swaying and fanged maws clicking constantly.
Malakk however seemed inured to the alien entities, even as his own guards looked wary, the troll spoke casually and jovially, "I hope your accommodations have been comfortable."
"Acceptable and functional, a vast improvement over the camp," the spider answered, their mouth clicking and rasping but somehow the words worming into Lianne's mind and making her shudder.
Chuckling the troll answered, "I imagine so, once again you and yours have my thanks for your services in the opening gambit of this war. Your actions saved many lives. By letting us make this swift and decisive."
The creature lowered itself down, swaying slightly, "As was our agreement, the scales have been balanced as your kind would say."
Malakk tapped a tusk, eyeing the Nerubian, "Indeed it is so, and if you wish to board the next ship home or simply open a gateway for yourselves, I shall not stop you. But…"
"But you have determined if I requested this meeting, the matter is more complicated than that," Ixit rasped.
"I thought but did not want to assume, speak your mind Ixit, that we might understand each other."
The Nerubian rattled its head, eyes rolling and flashing madly for but a moment and then its predator like focus was once again all upon Malakk's broad shoulders.
"This land is rife with sorcerers and scholars, inhabited by those who plumb the depths of this universe seeking knowledge and the wealth of titans but do not know to fear what they will find." A shuddering, hissing sound rolled in a wave across the room and the monsters stilled for a moment.
'
What in this world could frighten these nightmares?' Lianne wondered, only dragons sprang to mind and even then…
"You think more of your dead gods lie here?" Malakk asked, thoughtfully.
The Nerubian drew back and clicked its fangs, hard, "We do not invoke thoughts of such things, but even if not those who peel back the layers of reality have the chance to find nightmares they cannot contain, and they must be stopped."
"You do it all out of the goodness in your heart, I respect that," The troll said, smirking.
"Survival is paramount, freedom a requirement, to be so dangers must be eliminated or defended against… Which is a second point. There is much magic here, many great schools of learning. If we were to leave, they would be claimed by you."
"But if we fight together, we shall share them evenly or study them together as we do now?" Malakk said, motioning at some stiff looking troll and Wolvar "Scholars" flittering about the library.
Ixit looked reserved and maybe… Annoyed, Lianne could not say, but the spider bobbed its frame, "Indeed. If it acceptable to you, scholars and agents shall continue to support you in this war to see that the knowledge of this lands mages is captured, studied and secured against… Malevolent influences."
"That is more than acceptable, noble Seer, with that in mind, I would like to hear your thoughts on our Way-Gate schematics at a later date, once you have had time to research the possibility."
"Hmm, dangerous, but tactical, ancient, but stable, we shall study them, consult with the Spider King and the court, then arrange for a meeting with you on the topic."
"Magnificent, until then, I thank you again for your efforts and happily welcome your continued aid, may we both continue to reap success in the coming days!"
"Frost King Malakk!" A troll shouted, racing into the chamber, "News from the Orcish Legions and Navarch Hooktusk!"
The troll's brow knitted together as he hissed something under his breath, "Is it dire?"
The ornately armored troll clicked their tongue and said, "I believe they cannot be ignored, but neither speak of a sudden disaster, though…" The troll s gaze snapped to her, beady eyes focused in veiled disgust, "The Alliance continues to show they are bereft of hon-"
"Enough, I shall read them myself, have the War Council summoned to my parlor within the hour," he said sharply. The troll saluted and raced out the door as Malakk turned back, "it appears we shall have to cut this meeting short; do you wish for a representative at the meeting, Seer Ixit?"
"We have no forces with Hooktusk or your Orcs, so it does not concern us yet," With those words the spider simply turned and lurched back to an oversized table.
"Very well, Queen Counselor, have a meal, and recover some strength, commune with a priest if necessary, but know I shall need your advice this evening," Malakk said, eyes flicking over the scrolls.
Lianne forced the array of questions competing for answers and her burgeoning exhaustion to the back of her mind and curtsied.
"As you say, Frost King Malakk."
Tea had flown by in a blur, the moon was rising in the sky and the sun had dipped out of sight some time ago.
Queen Lianne stood as was custom, hands clasped before her, a step to the side of and behind the king as a show of presence and support, ready to give advice or aid at a moment's notice.
Only she was not in the throne room, he was not her king and none of this as custom.
Instead, she stood within her husband's sitting room, with plush red carpets, walls bedecked in fine art, maps and the Alliance's banner. Rows of books, a billiards table, and a a once roaring fireplace, now standing silent. All of this was familiar and to be expected, but the thought of conducting business in such a place was alien to her.
But not nearly so alien as the room's occupants and the false king who conducted his court as though at leisure.
Malakk, the 'Frost King' sat upon a movable throne of stone and intricate carvings, other, smaller but more plush chairs had been brought in to accommodate his advisors as they read reports, letters and discussed events.
Lianne had been offered a seat near Malakk but politely refused it. Any comfort offered was a false one after all and she would not let herself be more vulnerable than necessary.
A troll woman with red hair was speaking, "Chieftan Xex'Mon has taken quite a shine to the orcs, his mission to liberate the other camps however has been of mixed success. Of the three found, one is securely in our hands and brought in new recruits, nearly doubling the size of the orcish legions, while the rest remain lost in their ailments. However…"
"I am already well aware of the massacre that transpired in the West," Malakk intoned, sounding genuinely remorseful.
Bowing her head, the morose troll answered, "Yes, my liege, but the humans who massacred them will be found and I do have other most curious news to report that arrived moments before we began."
"Good, the Orcs are under my protection as well and I cannot let such cruelty go unpunished, now as to this new message, Quetz'Lith?"
"It was is a strange one. There was an internment camp found by Sky Shriekers sent to scout it out well ahead of Xex'Mon's advance," she said, tapping the scroll. "It had already been laid low by others when they arrived. The remaining orcs claim another of their kin liberated them, called him Hellscream. Some of the fighters left but many stayed or were left behind due to weakness."
Malakk hummed, idly glancing back at her, beady eyes expecting.
Shaking her head, Lianne answered, "I know not the name, but he may be tied with the Warsong or Burning Blade Orcs. Both have been acting as raiders in the backwoods for some time."
The brutish looking Zol'Maz cut in, "Why were they not interned as well?"
Lianne shrugged, "They were not among the invasion forces, merely thieves. After their scheme with the Dark Portal failed, they mostly stayed in hiding, preferring other vagabonds and bandits as their prey than daring the Alliance's wrath."
A silent debate had warred in her mind that only now reached its conclusion as she added, "I know little else of them save for that they conduct themselves with more with tact than the Old Horde. But signs have been found of bloody demonic rituals at abandoned camps, so the restraint is but by necessity."
She was surprised to see a shade cast over the room's occupants at the mention of demons. '
You are the one's who turned them lose upon us again!'
The trolls and the one Wolvar among them quickly returned their attention to the matter at hand when a white hair troll bedecked in rich leathers and twin dagger moved to speak.
"Speaking of raiders, word from the scouts says that humans in the more provincial areas have been trying to evacuate. Some succeeded, others were found robbed and dead, we assume by human bandits, others by these Ogre creatures and Gnolls we think."
Quetz'Lith shrugged, "War is a good time for bandits after all, should we deal with them Frost King Malakk?"
The troll king mulled on that for a time, tongue clicking before he answered, "By absorbing Lordaeron into the Drakkari Empire we become responsible for its people. If they wish to free themselves of our patronage, they accept dangers. Thus I will not seek reprisal for these acts lest something more untoward than mere raiding is uncovered."
"However," His tone grew stern as he leaned forward on his throne, knuckles flexing and cracking. "We should move to better patrol the lands and provide escorts to the peasantry; it will not be long before towns and food wagons come under attack and we cannot allow raiders to get away with acting in our territory."
Some part of her wanted to snap at him for such grandiose claims after having invaded them. But naturally Lianne kept her piece, not even a tremor of vexation showing on her face. For all the troll's lofty claims, Lianne knew she could not trust him not to lash out, if not at her, then at her children.
He waved a finger idly, "With that in mind, I would request more effort be made to chart out these attack sites and trace back the source of these violent acts. We do not want an army of brigands materializing in the backwoods. Though," Malakk looked to the diminutive dog servant, "Do you have anything to add my friend?"
The creature, Chief Rageclaw as she'd been told, let out a low keening whine. "We send Speakers. Seek Gnolls, Ogres, others. Some luck, but also violence. Chaos at West forests, much violence."
Malakk hummed, "I will want a full report soon, so we can see about who might aid us or at least join hands with us. Do your Speakers need extra guards?"
The Wolvar let out a sharp laugh, far too close to a Gnolls, "No need, strong, smart, swift."
"Very well, I look forward to your progress, until then," Malakk clicked his tongue. "Moorabi, can you appoint someone to oversee the bandit problem, but only who you need."
The dagger wielding troll sat up from his lounge cushion and saluted, even as the long maned woman spoke up, "Frost King Malakk, should some of my Sky Shriekers accompany them?"
'
A rivalry?' Lianne thought, filing that information away.
"Your Sky Shriekers would be a welcome aid, Quetz'Lith but they will be needed elsewhere I believe," Malakk said, picking up a scroll and unfurling it before Lianne who took it gingerly in her grasp. She ignored the unfamiliar script and focused on the sharp drawings of ships and sigils.
"Word is the fleets are finally putting up a fight and proving a hindrance to Hooktusk," Malakk said. "She and her crew are experienced, but the rest of our sailors less so and even our size and weapons can only do so much against there speed. She is requesting you and your Sky Shriekers, especially some Dragoons, specifically for if they run into Proudmoore for some reason."
"His son was murdered by the Orcs dragoons," Lianne muttered, ignoring the stares.
"Such is the nature of war," Sighed the 'Grand Prophet'.
The room grew silent and their gazes fell to Lianne once again, she could scarcely read the trolls expressions. Despite all the time she spent dancing around before relenting and answering even one of Malakk's questions, the acts of defiance had gleamed her little insight into the creatures as a whole.
"If you would Queen Lianne," Malakk said, not sounding irritated by her dawdling, "Might you share with us your knowledge of the sigil I marked on the scroll? It is not one that my Navarch recognized, but their ships are of high quality and skilled in the arts of war," Malakk instructed.
Swallowing back bile she answered, "This is the new symbol of the house of
Duke_Falrevere. He was once a powerful noble of Lordaeron, boasting a dozen merchant vessels under his sigil and twice as many battleships. However, he has been steadily trying to migrate towards Kul'Tiras, hence reshaping his sigil. I imagine you struck down several of the ships he had lingering here if your claims regarding the coasts are true."
The armored brute, 'Zol'Maz' scoffed, "Seems this nation was fraying before we arrived."
"We are still learning their ways, Zol'Maz, do not be so dismissive," the Grand Prophet chided.
"Whatever the case," Malakk said, forestalling their usual bickering with a tired sigh, "I ask you, Queen Lianne, would he be open to negotiating or has that ship… Sailed, I believe the term is?" He said with an awkward sort of… grin?
Lianne almost wanted to advise them to send a speaker, but bit back the bitter impulse. She could not risk her precarious position so lightly, not seeing how disproportionate the Drakkari could be.
Shaking her head, she rolled up the scroll and answered, "I would caution against it. His reasons for leaving our lands was a protest against the internment of the orcs in place of genocide and our 'generous' open border policies with the Dwarves."
"Ah, so he looks upon all nonhumans as you do upon trolls?" Moorabi chuckled.
Brow knitting together, Lianne answered tightly, "Not the manner in which I would have phrased it, but his contempt for those who are not human is well known."
"Hmm a shame, but not unexpected," Malakk mused, resting his chin on his fist, "Still, I thank you for your forthrightness, Queen Lianne."
She offered a curt little motion that blurred the line between a bow and a nod, "I only wish to protect the people of Lordaeron and my family as best I am able."
"And you are, even if it may not feel like it," Malakk said, idly tapping his throne, "Quetz'Lith, how many Shriekers can you send to Hooktusk without endangering our position?"
The fiery hair woman put down the scroll and brushed back a lock of orange hair, "About a third of my bat riders and a quarter of the dragoons to I am thinking. Hooktusk just wants to keep them hemmed and distracted, but an early show of force would be good, then some can come back."
Malakk nodded, "Very well then, let it be done."
The woman saluted sharply, "As you say, Frost King Malakk."
Nodding the troll motioned to Moorabi, "I want you to contact Slad'Ran and to coordinate your efforts to root out the raiders. I also want you to coordinate with Chief Rageclaw to seek out these other orcish liberators, but do not engage them. Unless they commit an offence against honor or would threaten our people."
The troll shot up in a blur and knelt, "The brigands shall not escape us, Frost King Malakk."
Putting the scroll aside, Malakk motioned to her, "Thanks to our Queen Counselor and skilled Speakers efforts, a work force has been secured to oversee much of the simple manual labor. Prisoners who wish their terms commuted mostly. This shall free up our own forces for patrols and for raids on the Bulwark, and with time could provide other benifits."
"The bulwark still poses a danger, especially with the temple so nearby. I am thinking it was a bad decision not to move East sooner," ZolMaz said.
Gal'Darah scowled at the troll, bristling as he countered, "First you resent our presence here, now you condemn us for inaction?"
"There is a fine line between honor and rank foolishness is there not? Sending word to the East hastened the making of the Bulwark that weakens us," the warrior argued.
"What is done is done," Malakk intoned, "We came here knowing we may need fight all comers, them moving to a potential choke point is not a bad thing. Provided our weapons and forces are at the ready, a defensive war will serve us well into the next theaters of battle. Besides, work has already begun on a surprise for those that strike at us from the East," he smirked.
'
So, there are still secrets held in reserve, but what and how dangerous are they?' Lianne wondered.
Her attention turned to a lean, muscular troll woman with a white mane of hair that was smaller than most of her kindred.
"Speak Great Mother," Malakk intoned.
"Word from North Port my liege, Bonechiller Barafu sent me word that unfamiliar mages have attempted to breach our barriers. The Arcanists describe their magic akin to a ghost brushing up against the wards."
"Hmm, concerning, but with Dalaran still pawing at our gates I can only leave the matter to their best discretion and ask they divert only what can be spared to researching this matter," Malakk said.
"As you say Frost King," the troll woman intoned blandly.
Glancing around hands out wide, Malakk asked, "Is there any more business to be conducted this night?"
Gal'Darah raise his hand, ornately decorated wooden armor shining brighter than steel as he intoned. "From my time in the church, speaking with the Archbishop and thanks to recent letters from Prophet Slad'Ran, I have learned that both the Priestess Whtemane and Faol wish to hold a meeting or summit of some sort. To ensure the others 'flock' is well tended and commiserate on holy lands."
Malakk frowned at that, leaning back in his throne, "The Church's collaboration is a useful tool in keeping the populace calm, but I am wary to allow such a thing at this sensitive time. Speak with them further, research their requests, desired meeting places and more, so that nothing may catch us by surprise."
Gal'Darah looked briefly stunned before an oddly pleased expressions spread on his lips and he nodded excitedly, "As you say Frost King Malakk, so shall it be done."
"Then I thank you all for your exemplary service and offer you lodging within the palace for this night before you return to your duties on the morn. Rest well my friends, battle comes soon."
Rising to their feet, an array of salutes, bows and soft words were exchanged as they began filing out of various doors. Lianne herself lingering as long as she could while Malakk stretched and motioned his guards to the courtyard to "Knock the frost off."
Only for them to freeze when De'jana raced through the door, offering her what looked like an apologetic smile before turning her attention to the Frost King.
Lianne knew they could see her and forced herself to leave, every step agonizingly slow as she listened intensely, but only a few words slipped through the doorway.
"A diplomatic messenger awaits an audience with you, Frost King Malakk."
"Oh?"
The words after that faded to nothing and Lianne could not help but suspect foul play as she tried to calm her worried mind.
'
It is most certainly a mere message of some distant ally or new discovery, no human would aid these barbarians, not a one!'
Beve_Perenolde stared at the shimmering portal before her, staff clutched in hand, face obscured by a mask in Alterac orange, with rough red and fading purple robes adorning her frame.
"It looks stable enough," she mused. Smiling like a cat at the sound of heavy armor at her side, as Richelle stood before the gateway and saluted.
"Please, allow me milady," She crossed the heavy, bladed shield woven into her armor's right arm over her chest.
Brushing the woman's short brown hair back with a gentle touch of her staff, Beve nodded, "As you wish, my
dear."
Standing at attention, pivoting on her feet, with her nearly un-armored right hand reaching up to grasp the handle of her broadsword, she stepped through and vanished into shimmering light.
"Want to bet her head comes flying out?" Lisa chuckled.
"Head if we're lucky," Rosa scoffed.
Beve tapped her stave into the ground, while
Singer let loose a low hum and both mages stilled their wagging tongues.
A moment later, Richelle strode out of the portal looking intense but otherwise unharmed as she saluted and said, "The gateway leads to Fenris Isle my princess, they appear safe… If Damaged."
'
They've taken Fenris Isle!?'
Beve motioned Singer forward and at the woman's hum her hands began to shine, one with gold and the other with shadow. Placing them either side of Richelle's head there was a tense moment before she pulled back. Glow fading from her hands, the assassin signed
'Mind is her own'.
Checking her
Crystal Tipped Stiletto was still fastened to her hip, Beve cheered, "Well then, if it is safe and Richelle speaks the truth, let us see what lies on the other side, no?"
"Yes, Princess Beve!" They answered, before Richelle turned and marched back through the portal.
Singer ran her hands through her dark hair and matching dress, sucked in a gentle breath of the perfume suffusing her mask and strode through, followed by Beve and her apprentices.
Flashing lights of the Nether faded quickly, but Beve's mind was caught in shocked wander as she stepped upon the muggy, frosty island and stared at Frenris Keep.
Once a fiercely powerful fort with a fine dock and many small vessels, the fortress was now battle scared by flame and broken stone. Giant turtles patrolled the waters in place of the now charred gunships, while strange spider webs that hummed with magic crisscrossed between towers and trees, while great idols rose up along the coasts, pulsating with power.
Air that should have been cold and the waters frosting over were instead muggy and flowing freely as though early spring. Before her stood a fierce looking troll woman with white hair, lean muscles, rather handsome features, and pale blue skin.
Firmly striking the ground with the butt of her spear the ornately armored troll said, "I am Great Mother Arkticus, leader of the Frostmane Tribe, advisor to Frost King Malakk and acting overseer of this fort. It is an honor."
Matching the motion of the woman's spear with her
Amethyst_War_Staff, Beve answered in kind, "The honor is mine. I am princess Beve Perenolde, formerly of the nation of Alterac, and arch mage of the
Syndicate." She motioned from side to side, "This is my honor guard Richelle and my personal assistant Singer, along with two of my apprentices, Rosa and Lisa."
The troll woman nodded, hand over her heart, "Frost King Malakk will be pleased to receive you within the fort itself, and should this matter go well, will cheerfully host you and yours as honored guests in Lordaeron's castle."
Beve smiled, even if a touch of her ached at the thought of Lordaeron sharing the keeps fate. '
It would not feel the same,' she thought, even as she fell in behind Arctikus and said, "I too hope this meeting is fruitful, and wish to offer your liege my regards."
Casting her gaze around and trying to ignore the strange spiders patrolling the woods, she added, "However did you claim this keep? It was meant to house a strong force at all times and the wards were always well maintained."
A new voice, rough but jovial echoed across the courtyard and Beve was greeted to the sight of the largest troll she had ever seen, bedecked in robes as fine as any kings and sweeping his arms out grandly as he proclaimed.
"Fortune, timing, and skilled scouting was our ally in this battle" Sharp features split into an endearing smirk as he continued. "Word is the lord of this isle only kept a garrison while he resided upon it, and as he was away at Dalaran. Thus, we struck before the wizards of the South could fortify it."
He bowed grandly, "I am Frost King Malakk, and I welcome you as my honored guest, Princess."
"I am honored to be receive so graciously," she said, curtsying, "I hope this can be the beginning of a long and prosperous relationship between our peoples."
"As do I, there is much the former masters of Alterac could do to aid us, and much we intern can offer your Syndicate," he said, the word rolling off his tongue strangely.
Motioning for her to join him, they walked into the charred but still whole keep, her guards falling in at her left and the Frost King's at his right, with Arctikus breaking off to oversee soldiers training in the courtyard.
"You are well informed on us; I take it you spoke with our man then?" She asked.
"Indeed," he frowned, "
Andron_Gant has quite a reputation about him, but he was very informative."
"He is but one of many agents we have across Lordaeron and the Greater Eastern Kingdoms, keeping our forces abreast of the Alliance's moves against our people."
"An impressive accomplishment to be sure," Malakk said hands clasped behind his back.
They passed through the gate and into the chilled main hall. Beve found a comfortable plush chair awaiting her that was utterly dwarfed by the ornately carved stone throne sitting across from it, with a large map table laid out between them.
"Please, I offer you a seat that we may talk in comfort," Malakk said.
"I accept your kind offer happily," Beve said carefully, trying to follow the troll's diction and earning what looked to be a pleased smile as she took her seat across from him.
"Now, forgive me if I am ignorant," Malakk said carefully, though his tone beget no nervousness, "But I must ask. Would you be considered empowered to speak on behalf of your Syndicate's leader, or perhaps be their replacement?"
Beve rolled the question over in her mind, trying to parcel the world this king came from, what his true question might mean and if obscuring the truth was to her benefit.
'
I know too little to play coy,' she decided, and leaned forward, "As the eldest child of Aiden Perenolde, Princess, as well as the teacher and leader of our magical squadrons I could be considered my father's successor. However as of now any deal arranged with myself would be provincial and require his approval."
"And his alone?" Malakk asked.
'
I was hoping he would not ask that,' she thought before answering, "May I inquire as to the intent behind your question?"
"Nothing sinister," he hummed, offering a lazy wave, "I am simply learning the ways of my subjects and allies and thus there is much I do not know. I myself rule as Frost King, but I am advised and checked by a council of Great Families, Priests and bureaucrats, among which yourself and some among your number may well be counted in due time."
'
He presumes much, but that offer is temping, though a court of trolls would be quite a spectacle!' She idly wondered if most were as tall as Malakk, given what she had seen, she imagined him to be an exception.
Smiling, she clasped her fingers and hummed, "My father is king, however much like yourself he holds court with military leaders, nobles and those like myself." It was best not to make promises they could not keep, but not in a way that showed weakness. "As a result of our decentralized nature direct edicts are difficult to institute, though only for now, and no matter the day we hold sway over two thousand fierce fighters, cunning rogues and skilled mages."
"Four legions, mages and an information network, quite a respectable force, but then, that begs the question," he leaned back in his chair and smiled softly, "What is it you desire from your Frost King?"
Beve resisted the urge to click her tongue like a scolding teacher, casting a brief glance back at the eager eyes of her followers, before meeting Malakk's own. The troll was utterly assured and radiating naught but a calm sense of strength and authority.
"Your people came here seeking justice, we desire the same," She uttered, tongue lashing. "When we needed the Alliance, they were nowhere to be found and for striking a deal to survive, nearly all among us were punished, even those of us who had no part in the 'crime' of which my father was accused."
"Oh? I had been told you joined your family in exile willingly," the troll asked curiously.
'Because I love my family and did not want to be sold off as some fool princes breeding stock!'
"My loyalty to my kin and my people is great, Frost King Malakk, I would do anything to protect them," she said grandly.
He showed neither sign of annoyance nor belief at her tone, merely ambivalent acceptance as he motioned, "But there must be more than reprisal against those who wronged you that you seek."
"There is," Beve said licking her lips, "We desire our land back, we wish for our mountain homes as well as for the lands of Hillsbrad and Arathi to fall under our sway when this war is done. We wish to aid you in claiming victory and be rewarded with not just what was taken from us, but the lands of those who robbed us so."
A quiet breath escaped Malakk's maw, almost like a whistle, "Your family and lords desire much, but it is not something I am bereft of mind to give. When all acknowledge me as their rightful king there will need to be overseers and Great Families to tend to the lands and her people's after all and I find it fitting to reward those who conduct themselves loyally and bravely."
"You would find fewer braver or more dedicated souls than we, Frost King Malakk," she offered eagerly.
"Indeed, your enthusiasm does you credit." Tapping his throne he added, "I am willing to agree to a fair redistribution of land to you and your people. Should my rank as king be acknowledged and you aid us in the coming battles. However, the nature of warfare and alliances make determining the exact territory and size so soon a fool's errand."
He held up a hand forestalling a counterpoint, "I will however agree to offer your people Hillsbrad, the lords have summarily rejected my offers, one merely sending back a letter he spat in," The troll bristled in vague disgust.
"Some of the lords here are a rather rough and uncivilized lot," Beve crooned.
Malakk chuckled, "So it would seem, but ah, where was I? Yes, you will also have food as well as new equipment and the support of my own forces in the days to come. I will accept your oaths of loyalty and host your family and advisors at my palace, where we may discuss this in more detail."
'
That was swift, perhaps his position is not as strong as I thought and he's desperate, or maybe he is merely arrogant, or trusts too easily…' Her mind whirled, but Beve knew an answer needed to be forthcoming and she would not know the truth from idle speculation.
Rising from her seat, she crossed a hand over her heart, "I am honored, Frost King Malakk, and will take this happy news back to my father and our forces at your leisure."
Malakk rose from his seat, "Whatever time is best suited to you and yours, Princess Beve; though if that is now please, allow me to escort you to the portal point."
"You are a truly gracious king," She offered, resting her hand over his massive digits, and feeling like a child next to an adult given their respective heights.
As they strode towards a glittering arcane circlet, Beve plied the troll king, "If I may ask, who do you intend to appoint as overseer of Fenris Isle when this war is done?"
Malakk hummed, "That is yet to be decided. The Shadowglen of Silverpine played a key role in claiming this sight as did the Sky Shriekers. Should neither of them wish to claim it, I shall likely gift it to the Rageclaw Wolvar, that they might turn it into a trade hub, it is well situated for such a place."
'
Just how expansive is his empire?' She wondered, confidence in her family's future further buoyed by the prospect of an empire of more than just trolls and monsters.
"Wolvar?" She asked.
Malakk grinned, "You shall meet them as well as their Speaker and agents at the capital, they are quite eager to ply a new land for relics, herbs and trade abroad and will be most eager to converse with you."
Stepping into the arcane circle with her guards, Beve curtsied, "I shall look forward to meeting them, and our next engagement in the capital, my king."
He grinned, "I as well, Princess Beve Perenolde."
In the depths of the Barov family crypt the air was cold, lifeless, but almost clinically clean.
All facts that were lost on Bartimus. The mage could feel sweat running down his back as he cast the spell. Arcane energies flowed through his being, but the heady feeling was replaced by sheer dread at the darkness of the depth of the family crypt.
Only his lord and lady stood ready to receive the escaping royal family from the occupied capital.
"My lord, my lady, what if they are being pursued?" he asked, breath hitching.
"We have assurance they will be safe, so worry not, dear," Lady Barov murmured, as her husband toyed with his sword and added, "No unwanted quest shall find a welcome greeting, of that I can assure you, Bartimus."
"Finish the spell," they said as one.
He pushed through his fears, he was the family magus after all, it was his sworn duty to obey and-
Something cold.
A presence in his mind.
Too many eyes.
The spell wasn't his anymore.
"I-"
A troll burst forth and before he could scream a giant hand closed on his face and he knew only darkness.
Illucia and her husband had seen trolls before, but these Drakkari looked to be from another world!
Easily a head or more taller than the largest Forest Troll they were more akin to Ogres. Save where Ogres were all fat and bloat, these blue skinned creatures were all sharp angles and dense muscle.
The one who caught the unconscious Bartimus was adorned in thick dark robes of fine material with blue patterns and a white fur trim, magical trinkets adorning their frame.
The other was leaner but taller, adorned in fiery red armor one might expect to see on a skirmisher or commando that left his arms bare and was wielding a giant squared off blade.
The duo looked around and nodded, before stepping back and offering swift bows, "Honored guests of our liege, the Mighty Frost King Malakk. We his majesties bodyguards do welcome you on his behalf and bid you to cross the threshold."
"Will Bartimus survive?" Illucia asked idly.
"Oh yes," the robed troll said, "We don't kill needlessly, he will live, though until we can be sure he is safe he will have to be contained."
"That is only natural," Her husband said, hand on her back they nodded and followed the fiery red troll through the swirling vortex.
The world flared, flashed, and bent before they stood in a richly adorned study chamber and-
Illucia's heart nearly stopped at the sight of the multilegged monstrosity, a sordid blend of scorpion and spider weaving magic next to the portal.
"Don't worry about the Nerubian's none," the red armored troll said casually, "They're repaying us a debt and have proven to be a fine and friendly bunch."
A wheezy voice escaped the Nerubian, "We are neither fine nor friendly, this is just pragmatic rationality."
The robed one chuckled, "They pretend to have no emotions to make conversation dull, hoping that we might stop hassling them. Fret not, noble one's," she said more seriously, "As guests of our liege, you are the safest people on this world."
A weak nod grew firm as they steeled themselves and the portal closed behind them,
'too late to turn back now,' Illucia thought.
The twin trolls bowed before them again, the one in armor speaking, "I am Kutube'sa, a warrior and the burning blade of his majesty." Next was the robed one, a hammer and intricate stone shield on her hips and arm, "I am Bith'sa, Frost Warden and his majesty's unbreakable shield."
"We shall escort you to his eminence."
"Well then, let us not keep our host waiting," Alexi said with a forcibly casual air.
The guards nodded and beckoned for them to follow, leaving behind the spider monsters, and passing by many-a troll, other insectoid horrors, several strange furry creatures and oddly enough many humans moving about the castle without an escort.
Things only grew stranger as they stepped from the halls and onto the grand walkways surrounding the palace and looked upon the miraculously un-sacked capital.
Oh, the damage was there, walls being repaired, Lordaeron's Arcane Tower now but rubble and above all the sight of the fact the castles East Wing was charred and broken, but the houses and streets seemed to carry on as normal!
As they followed the elite guard, they looked over the city streets watched by more giant Drakkari trolls, but less than they expected. But what was more, they saw other humans.
Most down on the streets seemed to be shuffling about on their daily routine but there were others, clearly workers laying foundations upon he ruined sections of castle, while others worked inside to remodel the halls.
They were obviously being overseen by the Drakkari, but there were no chains, no whips. Illucia and Alexi shared a confounded stare.
"They are working for you willingly?" Alexi asked gently.
Bith'Sa shrugged, "Somewhat, they are petty criminals seeking esteem. We promised to communicate their prison time to labor done if they helped repair the city, if all goes well, they shall be home by spring."
Kutube'sa frowned, "We made a similar offer to the soldier and militia types, but they were most unreceptive, and rude."
"And those who refused?" Illucia asked gently.
Kutube'sa spoke up, "Their sentence will be the duration of the war at a minimum, but if this take six months then they go home six months after it is over, two years, another year after that." He waved his hand, "you understand, we just don't want-em causing any trouble the moment they get out."
That was a… surprise, but a comforting one, even if it was a lie; their actions thus far gave hint to Malakk's temperament and strategies.
'
We can work with this,' Illucia thought.
They passed through the royal hall, not even lingering on the throne room where trolls and those strange dog creatures were modifying the place; his majesty's throne however still sat, seemingly undisturbed.
"If we are not to be received in the throne room, may I ask where we are going?" Alexi asked.
"You are guests of the Frost King, you may ask whatever you wish," Bith'sa said gently, "As to where. Frost King Malakk abhors stuffiness, so you will meet with him in a parlor for drinks and food if it pleases you."
"It most certainly does," Illucia grinned as they approached a giant set of doors that clearly hadn't needed to be remodeled to accommodate the castle's new rulers, watching as it was pushed open to reveal the king's personal library!
'
We would never have been allowed in here before now!' Illucia thought giddy with pride and a darkly amused sense if satisfaction.
Soft blue banners and plush, royal purple seats awaited them, alongside grand bookshelves lined the walls, along with an array of wine cabinets, tastefully displayed art, a billiards table and more.
Laid out on a low table was an array of exquisite dishes, many of which they had personally ordered prepared in the past.
Of-course what instantly drew their attention was the gargantuan beast of a troll standing by a map board. Easily a head taller than even the tallest troll they had seen and broad as an ogre, he had dark violet hair, blue skin, adorned with tattoos and gigantic tusks!
Adorning his powerful frame was a soft, elegantly patterned sky-blue tunic with thick overall buttons running up from the base of the top to his chin. Grey-ish blue pants with subtle patterns and of a loose material covered his legs, while a long, gently furred coat that nearly blended into a cape hung over his shoulders. Several fine jewels formed an intricate necklace, detailed bracers studded with gems rested upon his wrists and golden loop earrings from which hung more jewels.
The troll smiled and that brief flash of fangs reminded them no matter how well he dressed this was still a troll who was easily twice their size. He threw his arms wide and beckoned with ring adorned fingers, "My noble guests, I welcome you to my parlor, please take a seat and help yourselves to whatever you desire."
Both offered a polite bow and curtsy respectively, "We thank our new king for his kindness."
"You are a more gentlemanly host than your predecessor, if I might say so," Alexi chuckled.
"You never drank tea or broke bread with your king?" Malakk answered, tsking.
"Indeed, we did not, he enjoyed the company of his Paladins and generals, but not his noble peers," Alexi huffed as he made to take his seat.
"Traitors!" A youthful voice howled from above.
They stilled and looked askance, only to see a blonde-haired adolescent with bright blue eyes being pulled back from the barrister by the queen mother herself!
"Come, Arthas," she annunciated carefully as the boy seethed and spat.
"Please Arthas," his sister added, tugging on his hand.
Illucia smiled and curtsied, "Queen Mother, have you remarried perhaps?" eyes flickering to Malakk who simply looked bored as Lianne scowled down at her and tugged Arthas away with more force.
As a pair of Drakkari advanced upon them, the fight slowly left Arthas, and with a brief flash of blonde hair and a muttered curse they disappeared. Falling back into the shadows of the studies second floor, before a door swung shut.
"My apologies, the Queen Counselor assured she could keep the boy in line but, it seems not. Though I must ask if the verbal barb was necessary?" Malakk asked.
"Apologies my king," Illucia said, not sorry at all, "old rivalries die hard."
The troll hummed, "True enough, and their comportment was most ill fitting to their station. Please, help yourselves," He gestured at the platter before them, snatching up a piece of caviar for himself as Illucia perused the wine list.
"Is keeping the royal family alive a wise course of action your grace? So long as they draw breath, people will feel Lordaeron lives on?" Alexi asked, as he toyed with a piece of pheasant.
The troll chuckled, "Lordaeron shall live on with or without them, but I'll not kill children over fear of what may come. Besides," He sent them both a significant, conspiratorial smirk, "they could still play a role in events to come, and to our mutual favor."
'Does he suggest an arranged marriage perhaps? To make us royalty?' Illucia wondered.
The troll waved towards the map hanging upon the wall and hummed, "But that is for the distant future, let us instead turn our minds to the now and what shall soon be, such as the lands you seek and of your daughter, Jandice of Dalaran,"
At that the noble couple grinned.
________________________________________
NOTES:
I have no idea how this chapter got so long to be honest, but I hope it proved engaging.
Fun trivia,
this art piece inspired Great Mother Arcticus's 'look', with these being her clothes prior to joining the empire.
I'm sort of mixing and matching canon for Alterac's betrayal, as the games had it be from the start, while the books had it be hilariously recent and only when the Horde marshalled at Alterac's foothills and was followed by Perenolde getting a message to send forces to Lordaeron of all place XD Suffice to say, while I am not going with the latter, a version of events along those lines if more drawn out, is the narrative Altericians hold about things, while the rest of the Alliance has a rather less charitable take, though broadly more accurate.
