Alexstrasza paused, her eyes filled with memories of the past.
Then her voice grew subdued. "He also said that taking the initiative to defeat and control the Primal Incarnates would at least demonstrate our ability and determination to uphold order to the Titan Watchers. Perhaps it could preserve a slim chance of survival for the dragon race."
Deren held his warm teacup and nodded thoughtfully. "That's where the problem lies. First, was the research Neltharion conducted in the Forbidden Reach really 'defensive' or 'enhancement' research, as he claimed?"
"Second, why was it Raszageth, the most impulsive and straightforward of them, who just happened to 'discover' Neltharion's secret laboratory and launch an attack without hesitation?"
"Remember, given Neltharion's strength as the Aspect of Earth back then, even a surprise attack should never have left him in such a sorry state that he needed to return to 'seek aid' and paint such a dire picture of the consequences."
He looked at Chromie. "As for what was really going on in the laboratory in the Forbidden Reach-"
For once, Lezi Long dropped his playful expression and nodded solemnly, confirming Deren's suspicions. "Fragments of the timeline show that it was indeed more than just a 'research facility.' Neltharion was conducting-unconventional experiments to fuse and create draconic life-forms."
"The details were obscured by powerful temporal mists and interference from Neltharion's own power, so I couldn't see them clearly. But they definitely involved-experimentation on living subjects, and the forced fusion of draconic powers with traits from other races."
As Chromie spoke, Alexstrasza's face grew steadily paler. Her eyes filled with shock and
the anguish of refusing to believe it.
Deren continued his analysis. "Then, Your Majesty, consider this. If the details of Neltharion's experiments were deliberately concealed even from you and your fellow Aspect Dragons, why