Behind the Fall

When Roderick met Albert, he had already calmed himself. A weak faction would get nowhere, no matter how loudly it shouted.

The Dalaran Council of the past naturally would not have dared treat the former Kingdom of Lordaeron this way. Thinking too much about it would not help solve the problem; it would only add to his troubles.

Several months had passed since he had last seen Albert. Even his staff had been replaced, with a brilliant red gemstone set into its tip. Presumably, his strength had improved considerably as well.

The two sat in a dessert shop Remi had often frequented, drinking fresh juice and tea as they discussed recent developments.

"I never expected that your trip to Northrend would lead to such a great undertaking, my friend," Albert said with surprise after taking a sip of tea.

"Abbendis's support was the main reason. You know, without her orders, I couldn't command even a single Scarlet Crusade soldier." Roderick understood this clearly. Aside from his personal strength, Abbendis was the foundation that allowed him to stir up such turmoil in Northrend.

"The leader of the Scarlet Crusade disguised herself as an envoy and came alone to Southshore to see you. There really isn't anything else going on?" A love of gossip was in every human's nature.

"There is nothing shameful about it, but I hope you can keep it secret for now. Abbendis and I do have feelings for each other, and I hope to marry her someday." Roderick trusted no one in Southshore more than this wise mage companion.

Another explosive revelation left Albert unsure how to respond. "Well, congratulations, Roderick. You've already found your life partner, and the two of you have even faced life-and-death trials together."

"It's truly hard to imagine. General Abbendis probably fell for