Malfurion's Meditation - Lanterns in the Orchard
(Meditation fragment, written in Malfurion's hand.)
The villa breathes through its roots. Lanterns swayed above us tonight, but it was the orchard's steady pulse that drew me most. The roots drink from the ley beneath, and in their strength there is no deception, no mask. Only patience.
Lucien spoke with pride of trees older than stone, and I laid my hand to the bark. I felt what he meant. The hum was faint but certain, like water beneath rock. Tyrande's smile was no less certain. She sees as I do, though her gaze lifts more often to the heavens.
There was laughter down another path—Lytavis, and my brother's voice beside her. Illidan has not yet learned to listen to roots. He follows quick sparks and restless shadows. Perhaps in time he will learn.
Tonight I am content to remember the orchard, the lanternlight, and the stillness that settled when Tyrande's eyes met mine. In silence, some truths are already spoken.