#nuellen

It wasn’t a typical evening of preparation and before-the-storm quiet, for a few members of The Sunguard. Instead, it was a time that they agreed would be best spent relaxing and just having too many drinks. A time to unwind.

Nuellen was more than amicable to this idea and had done her part in drinking plenty others under the table, but she hadn’t been the only one still standing once the festive feelings began to die down. She felt the alcohol finally kick in with that swirling buzz and had decided to get up to take a small walk for fresh air, though she hadn’t gone very far. 

A strong arm caught her by surprise, wrapping itself around her waist and pulling her forward to a smashing of warm lips against her own. Blinking out of her haze, she expected to see her lover’s face, but instead of Ethalarian she saw dark skin and bright, white eyebrows knitted as that kiss grew a little more heated and glossed by the smell of lots and lots of booze mingling around their mouths. This was Aestus’ heated advances!

Nuellen felt a small amount of panic, looking around for a different face and seeing Velianor nearby just beaming like a Trickster and glancing between the two. The Farstrider’s attention was pulled back to Aestus when his hands started to wander curiously, checking physically who he had in his arms before opening those golden eyes of his to confirm his suspicions, and finally pulled back with a low, drunken, “Oh…”

“Oh, indeed!” Nuellen laughed out, giving Velianor one more glance and seeing the good mood shared between the three of them, leaned herself against the Crusader’s body. “I take it this one had you chasing her about the grounds?”

The women finally exchanged grins, both of which were close enough that ill feelings wouldn’t have been harbored from such a surprising exchange. The fiery Little Wolf wormed herself into the embrace and had her arms around both Nue and Aes’ hips.

“Guilty. Sorry for the surprise, there.”

“No need to apologize, Veli…” Nue leaned down and gave the woman a nuzzle against her cheek, muttering into her ear some form of compliment directed to her own choice of loves, to which they shared low giggles and a confused look from Aestus who still held both women in his arms.

All in all, not a bad night for revelry. 

Left in Nuellen’s tent was a small box, the sigil of The Grove emblazoned over it. Inside of the box was a necklace with a picture clasp pendant and a short note. Inside of the picture clasp were pictures of her two children.

My little dragonhawk,

You have made your father so proud, growing into the proud warrior that you are. You are a fearless leader and peerless in your skills. It has been an honor to watch you grow and transform into the mighty woman that you are. I know what you do is important work, and that you will perform it with efficiency and pride. When your work is done I will be home, awaiting your return with delight and open arms. Until then, it is no reason to be without your children, so let them remain close to your heart as you remain close to theirs.

It is a strange thing, when she finally pays mind to the holiday season and feels the impulse to do.. something, for once. It has been many years since she has had more than the smallest handful of people to give gifts to.

Through varying degrees of occult and official means, she sends out a variety of things over the course of several days, when the Archon turns the members of the Sunguard to their own business. Most of the letters are bewitched, unable to be read except by their intended recipients. 

---

Aestus receives a leather armband with elaborate patterns seemingly burned into it, stylish but unobtrusive. On the inside face is inscribed in Thalassian script, “The night does not survive the dawn.”

My friend,

Of the guard, you are the first with whom I spoke besides possibly the dryest interaction I have ever had with the Scion. Though we have not done so in some time, I count you among one of my few steady friends. You have seen the darkness that lurks in the mid of my nights, as I yours.

Trace the script and read it aloud, when it becomes hard. In addition to it, I grant you one favor, to call upon my talents or resources as you will it.

@shampoocommercialelves

Westel is sent a box of pies, professionally made and still-fresh through some minor spell settled over them. In addition, a hunting knife that comes sharpened, its hilt carved and wrapped with artful patterns evocative of woodland beasts, with leafwork embellished along the spine of the blade.

Westel,

You were one of the first to show me friendship among the Sunguard. Three months ago I would not have called it that, but times seem to be changing. I thank you for the kindness, however small it may have been to give.

Where the hell have you gone? I miss Ithruiel. How dare you keep him from me.

@westelfirewing

Nuellen receives a strange, enchanted necklace -- a raven’s skull formed of blackened, petrified wood, attached to a thin, sturdy cord. A note explains its purpose to give the wearer resistance against ambient fel energy or exposure.

Swiftstrike,

Not a week passes that I do not think of my grandfather and how fortunate I was to have him. I have wrestled with feelings about his death for a very long time -- I don’t believe that I am yet done mourning, or that I ever will be -- but I am infinitely grateful to know that I am serving alongside some of the few Farstriders who served alongside him. Thank you.

@thedragonisaprincess

To Thanidiel is sent a cloak of brilliant, blood red fabric. Through some workings of alchemy, the cloak seems to be a remarkable insulator, despite its light weight. Some of the warlock’s sorcery is bound to it as well, and upon investigation it is revealed to be fireproof -- and furthermore, made to deflect magical flame and heat. The underside shimmers against the light with hues of orange and gold. An attached note reads, “This one won’t burn up. Use it well.”

Highdawn,

It has been some time since we have spoken, regrettably. I am still bitter that we did not get to face off at Shadowsunder’s tournament. Though through battle I have regained familiarity with my sorcery and its limits, I would still test it against you when you are available. Consider this a challenge.

@thanidiel

Caelinda is given a pair of boots, sturdy, stylish and well-crafted. Enchantments scribed onto the seams ensure that it will last an eternity of travel -- in addition, the monk feels a little lighter on her feet, when she wears them. To accompany the gift is an ornate brooch fashioned out of gold and ruby to affix to a cloak or scarf, and a batch of festive cookies that are still warm and fresh through some minor spell.

Caelinda,

There are few words to describe the depth of affection and fondness I have for you, however much I may loathe to show it around other people. You have given me a sense of peace and welcome that I have not had in such a long, long time, and I am grateful for your love. I will strive for all my days to be worthy of it.

@superspicedinosaur

Tyleril is sent a piece of everburning coal, infused with sorcery. It is warm to the touch, and a note explains that it can be activated and deactivated through a command word. When active, it effuses strong heat and flame, presumably to be used in the forge or a fireplace. The note warns not to hold it at inopportune times.

Silversword,

Thank you for hosting me in your home the night of the bonfire party. I know that I can be abrasive at the best of times, but it is appreciated, and I wish your business good fortune.

Keep the coal out of Samiel’s hands. That boy has fire in his eyes.

@tyleril-silversword

Vaelan receives a bottle of fine wine, Suncrown vintage. This brand is only seen on shelves practically once in a blue moon -- she must have been holding onto it for some time.

Vaelan,

You’re a fine man to work and drink with, though I fear I tend to grow only more abrasive when inebriated -- but I appreciate your friendliness, and our banter. Put this wine to good use. It’s far too damn fancy for me to drink it myself straight from the bottle, and I’m less inclined to put myself into a stupor on a regular basis, nowadays.

@greatmaulsoffire

A book, old and ornately bound, is sent to Veleth. It appears to be an in-depth study and analysis of extraplanar phenomena, as well as the planes themselves and how they intersect with the material world.

Ashcaster,

I had never expected to find a kindred scholarly mind among the Blood Knights. You are a steadfast ally in battle, and I appreciate your respect and curiosity for my studies. I hope that we both might benefit from learning into the future, with Argus on the horizon.

@veleth95

To Synthiel, a Reliquarian’s sanction for the regulated study and use of alchemically-synthesized anima.

Cloudseye,

It is refreshing to speak with another pyromancer on a level of exchanging knowledge and technique, and for that I thank you -- I have not enjoyed the privilege for a very long time, different as our disciplines may be. My expertise in commanding Wrath hones sharper by the day, and I have you to thank in part for that.

@spiral-seeker

For Ka’ese, a potted Thalassian plant, with delicate leaves in hues that range from scarlet to gold -- it is bright, and fragrant. A piece of home, preserved through magic that is clearly not the warlock’s own.

Brother,

Past our twenty-fifth year I did not think I would ever write to you and say ‘Merry Winter’s Veil’ ever again. I’m still not certain on how to feel that I am doing it now, but I know that I should, after everything. So much has changed since our reunion in Azsuna. Argus yet looms in the sky, and you should know that I intend to see this war to its end. I hope for your health, through it all.

One day we shall spend this time of the year together again, as brother and sister.

@turalyon

The Magistrix Starshard’s gift arrives on the wings of a strange raven with eyes like embers, bearing the warlock’s distinct aura of magic. In a small leather case strapped to its back is a token -- metal fashioned into the emblem of the Sunguard, with its reverse face inscribed with Thinariel’s unique sigil -- and a message of rolled and sealed parchment.

Thradia,

I cannot even begin to presume what you may believe of me at present -- I apparently have an unfortunate habit for disappearing off the face of the world. You have the deepest apologies I may give, and the greatest hopes for your health and success. You are beautiful and strong, more than I could have ever taught you to be.

Know that I survive, and that I had no choice but to take my leave of the Black Harvest when Vataan abducted my brother from Dalaran (yes, I have a brother). Through his hand and mine, no trace of my tower remains in the Twisting Nether. Without my refuge, I serve the Sunguard. So much has changed that I cannot put to words.

Argus looms high in the sky; you know where I must be.

Stay the course.

Left in Nuellen’s home, on the kitchen table, was a small letter atop a leather-wrapped package.

Nuellen,

Pride. Never has there been a word better to describe you in my eyes, for it is always my feeling when I hear of your deeds and see your work. You have always put so much effort into your training, and seen skill produced equal and beyond those means. It is something beyond talent that lay within you, and it only grows with each new effort you take upon yourself. This year I have watched you accomplish so much, and I know that in the coming year you will only out do yourself. For that is your nature, ultimately. The consumption and improvement of your own self.

Know that you have made me proud, and never less than that, Alorinis

A scroll carried to Nuellen in the talons of a very taxed eagle, with an attached note.

My darling dragonhawk

This year alone I have watched you grow so much. You have challenged your fears, put yourself into a new position in life, and strove to make a stronger status for yourself. I have always been proud of you, but this year I have been especially so. Years ago I began working on cultivating a grove in Quel’Thalas, though I was not always sure what for then. I learned earlier this year what it would be for. The map that Thefusul has brought to you will lead you to this grove, where there is enough space to build a house. It is a grove of tranquility, where I have woven together the natural energies of the plants to remove any unnatural sources. It should be able to keep the Nightmare Pack from your senses, if you chose to use it for a home or merely a reprieve.

I love you my daughter, Alorinis

[A new map arrives with various notes and symbols of enemy and friendly camps. A note about certain cave systems in addition to a red circle around one cave mouth and a written, “Stonedark Grotto – friendly!” To the east of the map was another star with a label “Prepfoot Compound.” The northern shore had a label “lots of murlocs.”] Apologies for my delay of correspondence. No excuses for it other than being monumentally distracted. I’ve included entries of my continued findings. Didn’t date these, I realize.