Witcher: The Half Elf

Shaw hadn't provided a precise timeline for the operation, likely because even he wasn't certain of the mission's potential for success. Though SI7 was a formidable organization, it wasn't omnipotent.

After the Defias Brotherhood's kidnapping of King Varian Wrynn, SI7 had noticed the drastic change in the king's personality, which had turned timid and submissive. They knew something was amiss, but they were powerless to address it. They could only stand by as the Noble Council made shortsighted decisions, the Kingdom of Stormwind fell further into disarray, and the situation spiraled out of control. As the king's eyes and ears, SI7 had limited authority to intervene in the kingdom's politics. Perhaps this lack of influence was what fueled Shaw's determination to uncover the true mastermind behind Stormwind's descent into chaos.

However, waiting was not Wayne's style. He never waited passively for events to unfold. Instead, he preferred to strike decisively after thorough preparation.

Now that he understood the true threat—Onyxia, the Black Dragon Princess—Wayne had no intention of following the mission's prescribed steps blindly. Onyxia, as a daughter of Deathwing and a former raid boss, was a formidable foe. Black dragons, with their resilient scales, innate magical prowess, and longevity stretching tens of thousands of years, were practically the apex species in Azeroth. Onyxia's abilities, combined with her retinue of elite draconic guards and the possibility of calling on her father or brother for aid, made her a fearsome adversary. To defeat her, Wayne would need not only perfect timing but also a meticulous plan.

Although Wayne possessed many trump cards, he knew he could not guarantee victory against such a formidable enemy.

That evening, Wayne invited Reverend Paletress to join him. First, he took the young and frugal priestess to enjoy fine teas and desserts at the most luxurious patisserie in Stormwind. Later, with her by his side, he visited an esteemed court mage known for crafting magical artifacts.

This court mage, a veteran of the Orc Wars, had a reputation for exceptional skill in creating magical equipment. Though not particularly powerful in combat, his expertise in enchanting objects was renowned throughout Stormwind. If not for Paletress's endorsement and her connection to Archbishop Faol, it would have been challenging for Wayne to secure an audience with the mage, let alone complete a transaction.

After a detailed discussion, Wayne purchased an ancient artifact from the mage's collection—a pet badge originally crafted by an elven mage and previously owned by a renowned elven hunter. The relic was said to have come from Silvermoon City during the mage's time in Lordaeron.

Wayne spent a considerable sum—1,000 gold coins—for the badge. After a night of modifications by the court mage and a simple binding ceremony in the city's animal pens, the badge would allow him to summon and store Deathclaw.

Although the court mage had offered to craft a new badge tailored specifically to Wayne's needs, it would have required more time—something Wayne could not afford. The looming threat of Onyxia made having Deathclaw available a pressing necessity.

Of course, Wayne's wealth meant he didn't need to choose between options. While acquiring the artifact, he also commissioned the mage to craft a new, customized badge using premium materials. This act of generosity earned him the mage's goodwill. Future requests for magical equipment would likely be met with enthusiasm, even without Paletress's influence.

After leaving the mage's residence, Wayne turned to thank Paletress for her assistance. However, instead of the gratitude he expected, the priestess responded in a firm yet gentle tone:

"You're too formal, Wayne," she said, her voice carrying a hint of reproach. "We're already friends, and helping each other is natural. Besides, I admire your efforts to help the orphans. Assisting you makes me happy."

Paletress paused, her expression becoming hesitant. Her bright eyes locked onto Wayne's as she asked, her tone uncertain:

"Wayne, there's something I noticed when we first met. I've hesitated to bring it up, but I feel I must ask now."

Wayne raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "We're friends, Paletress," he said with an encouraging smile. "If there's something on your mind, speak freely. You should know by now that I'm not easily offended."

Paletress's cheeks flushed slightly, but she maintained eye contact.

"Of course not, Wayne," she said. "You are a noble gentleman. Even among Stormwind's wealthiest, there are few as generous and kindhearted as you."

Upon hearing this, Paletress quickly waved her hands, indicating her concern, and then, without further hesitation, voiced her question:

"Wayne, as a believer in the Holy Light, I can sense a very dark and malevolent power sealed within you. It feels oppressive, grim, and steeped in a murderous aura.

"However, this power seems to be restrained by another sacred force. Only traces of its dark essence remain, which is why I could detect it. Can you tell me what's going on?

"We are friends, and as a servant of the Holy Light, if you need its help, I will never turn away."

Wayne was genuinely surprised at her insight. His expression shifted, reflecting his astonishment.

"You can actually sense it?" he asked, his voice laced with intrigue.

He hadn't anticipated that the priestess would discern the magic sealed within him. Her sensitivity to such matters was extraordinary, even among those devoted to the Light.

However, this revelation presented an unexpected opportunity. Resolving the issue of the infernal power within him was one of Wayne's priorities, especially before taking on the Black Dragon Princess, Onyxia. Since Paletress had brought it up herself, he decided to take advantage of this moment and seek her aid. After all, consulting her had been one of his goals in coming to Azeroth.

Wayne adopted a somber expression, his voice tinged with genuine gravity as he responded:

"Now that you've perceived it, I won't hide the truth from you, Paletress."

"Part of my journey to Stormwind was to seek assistance from the Church of the Holy Light. I had hoped they might help me expel the evil power that resides within me.

"This power came into my life during an encounter in a distant, treacherous land. I was protecting a group of innocent civilians threatened by a malevolent entity—a so-called 'god of darkness.' Though I succeeded in defeating it, I was tainted by its lingering essence."