[Horde] Chapter Three: Session Nine

Appearing Characters: Arthak Saurfang, Azgadaan, Azuka, Gel'nok, Go'el, Halno, Keli'dan the Breaker, Lantresor, Levia Blackflight, Nesslyn, Nyxxa, Orican Runesight, Rehgar Earthfury, Sadine Summerflow, Sadras, Sagaz, Samaara, Silansalia Winterwind, Shaspira, Solion, Thura Saurfang

Appearing Enemies: Arcane Wraiths, Mana Surge Wyrms

Appearing Locations: Falthrien Academy, Sunstrider Isle

December 2nd (Morning)

Azgdaan heads to the Broken Blade forge and finds a number of orcs there as well as the towering form of Gel’nok working on some project or another.

Azgadaan says: Hello gentlemen, how are you doing today?
Forge Orc says: Hey. You’re that… Azgadaan, who’s a member of the boss’s warband.
Azgadaan says: Indeed. Who here is the most experienced smith?
Forge Orc says: Up until recently, I would have said the boss, but…

He gestures his head at Gel’nok.

Forge Orc says: But ol’ Gel’nok has been doing this longer than the boss has been alive.

Gel’nok has not bothered to look up from the project he’s working on. Azgadaan thanks the orc and approaches Gel’nok with a greeting. The mok’nathal doesn’t bother to stop or look up.

Azgadaan says: I have a commission for you.

Gel’nok turns slightly.

Gel'nok says: Can’t you see I’m busy?
Azgadaan says: I can. But I’ve been informed you’re the most experienced smith next to Arthak.
Gel'nok says: Next to? Ha! The boy’s got talent, but that’s a bold claim. Who said that?
Azgadaan says: They didn’t precisely say it, but those two over there taking a break.

Gel’nok looks at the orcs and barks that they have chamberpot duty for the rest of the evening.

Gel'nok says: So, you want my help. Ain’t you one of them demons, kid.
Azgadaan says: Considering I’m all red and I was born on Argus, yes. And you don’t seem to be an orc. You would be a… mok’nathal.
Gel'nok says: I guess you can say that. The mok’nathal are their own tribe. But I suppose for lack of a better descriptor you can say that.
Azgadaan says: You said you’re better than Arthak.
Gel'nok says: Aye.
Azgadaan says: Could you redesign armor that’s already been forged?
Gel'nok says: It’ll cost you.
Azgadaan says: How much?
Gel'nok says: What kind of armor?

Azgadaan withdraws a pieces of the Shatari plate.

Gel'nok says: We talking a full set of plate?
Azgadaan says: Full set. And a shield.
Gel'nok says: That’s a tall order, and it ain’t cheap.
Azgadaan says: Well. Minus a helmet.
Gel'nok says: Well, if you’re looking to make this look different, that’s costly and time consuming. But I can do it. You don’t need anything infused, do you?
Azgadaan says: No. I just need it different enough that it can’t be recognized.
Gel'nok says: Well. It’s draenic design from the looks of it. A simple design.
Azgadaan says: Right. It was… well, no one forged it, technically.
Gel'nok says: That’s absurd. Armor like this is forged. You can’t forge something without a forge. Trust me kid, I know a thing or two.
Azgadaan says: Considering I’ve only watched Arthak on a forge once, I’ll believe you.

Gel’nok smirks at him and looks at the armor.

Gel'nok says:: Well. You’re not small, and if it’s a full set of plate… do you have an idea of how you want this designed, or what?
Azgadaan says: Nothing gaudy. No skulls, bones, anything like that. Just… something suitable.
Gel'nok says: Alright. 400 gold pieces should do.

Azgadaan gives him 200 gold pieces to start, and said he’ll give the rest on completion, which Gel’nok accepts. He said it’ll be done in about a week, and Azgadaan thanks him. He comments he’s surprised that Azgadaan didn’t take it to a demon armorsmith, and Azgadaan comments it’s better to keep the funding in Arthak’s clan.

Earlier in the week

Nyxxa had gone to talk to the elven prisoners again after the group conversation involving Halno and Arthak. True to Arthak’s promise, they have been permitted to stay together, and they stand at Nyxxa’s approach.

Nyxxa greets them, and they nod to her. Nyxxa asks if they mind speaking, and they agree to do so. Nyxxa sits in front of their accommodations.

Nyxxa says: First off, I wanted to ask if you had any questions following our previous meeting.
Sadine Summerflow says: I suppose plenty, but none you will answer.

Nyxxa shrugs.

Nyxxa says: I’ll see what I can do.

Sadine furrows her brow.

Sadine Summerflow says: Why have you taken such an interest in us?
Nyxxa says: If you want the simple reason, it’s because I suppose I am sympathetic to your situation.
Sadine Summerflow says: I didn’t peg demons for sympathy.
Nyxxa says: I was once an elf.
Sadine Summerflow says: You mentioned as such.
Nyxxa says: Though I suppose something you would like to ask is how the war is going.

The two elves look at each other.

Sadine Summerflow says: That… I suppose. All we know is the ban’dinoriel still stands.

Nyxxa nods, and then activates her see invisibility ability. She glances around, but sees nothing of note or concern.

Nyxxa says: Good. Well, an update to the state of things. In what you would like to know. The elves have put up resistance and have taken to the sewers. They are fighting back rather effectively.

The elves look at each other, both intrigued and surprised.

Nyxxa says: They know the land better than the orcs.
Sadine Summerflow says: I suppose you can leave it to the Farstriders. I assume that’s partially due to them.
Nyxxa says: There is one woman in particular. She calls herself the Blood Shrike, and she leads them. The orcs are trying to route them, and…

Nyxxa rubs the back of her neck.

Nyxxa says: As you would imagine, and it is quite the stalemate. Seeing the orcs have nothing to do with the barrier up, it’s the only thing they can focus their attention on.
Sadine Summerflow says: So it’s a losing battle.
Nyxxa says: Not quite. The odds were recently evened. You recall I mentioned Sinestra.

Sadine nods.

Sadine Summerflow says: You mentioned a few things about her.
Nyxxa says: Well, what I didn’t mention, and what I would prefer you didn’t impart on anyone else, is she made herself known during one of Arthak’s war meetings. In a sense, she wished to aid in routing the Resistance. Essentially offering alchemical creations of dubious origins. Arthak rejected her, and she offered her assistance to the Resistance instead. I find that incredibly curious. Though I’m certain, with such a tale, you wouldn’t believe me.

Silansalia mutters something under her breath, and Sadine shoots her a look.

Sadine Summerflow says: It’s a bold claim. You had a few of those, as of yet. Not that there’s much we can do with that information.

Nyxxa nods.

Nyxxa says: I suppose I wanted to update you. Now that Sinestra is working with the Resistance, they have a much stronger force than before, which I suppose would be comforting. Though I am concerned given what Sinestra offered Arthak was to receive the captured noncombatants to experiment on. That’s why Arthak rejected her proposal. I… suppose I am just curious in finding out what she is actually up to.
Sadine Summerflow says: I guess good luck in that. I don’t imagine she would be inclined to tell you, doubly so if she already knows your face, as you say.
Nyxxa says: But we are woefully low on information. Even the Resistance doesn’t know, not from what they told me.
Sadine Summerflow says: From what they told you?

Nyxxa nods.

Sadine Summerflow says: So now you want us to believe you’re working with the Resistance?
Nyxxa says: I don’t expect you to believe me, and if I were to say such things out loud, it would be negligent were they true, but…
Sadine Summerflow says: I suppose one other question. That cowled figure. He was new. I haven’t seen him. Who was he?
Nyxxa says: A recent acquisition. He joined while I was dead, and I haven’t had much time to speak with him. Though, you saw he understood common.
Sadine Summerflow says: And he’s no orc, unless he’s the smallest one I’ve ever seen.
Nyxxa says: I frankly don’t know what his deal is.
Sadine Summerflow says: Comforting.
Nyxxa says: But he’s something I’m keeping my eye on.
Sadine Summerflow says: Appreciated, for what it’s worth, if this isn’t an elaborate ruse to get us to reveal information.
Nyxxa says: I wouldn’t ask you to.
Silansalia Winterwind says: I don’t trust you, Nyxxa, but if everything is true, if you really are working with the Resistance… I don’t know why you are doing this, or if you are, or if there is some sort of multi-tiered scheme, but if it’s really as face value as it seems, thank you.
Nyxxa says: I suppose don’t thank me until I’m able to pull something off. Were that the case.
Silansalia Winterwind says: Were that the case indeed.
Sadine Summerflow says: Well, you know where to find us, if you want to tell us any other cryptic information.
Nyxxa says: There’s only so much I can.
Sadine Summerflow says: As is the way.
Nyxxa says: And if I am able to pull this off, you’ll have more reason to trust me.
Silansalia Winterwind says: Unless that is also some deep plot.
Nyxxa says: I’m not smart enough for that.
Sadine Summerflow says: I was getting the sense of that. No offense.
Nyxxa says: Look. Only fools fight my battle, and I’m an idiot. I won’t make any loft promises, but sympathizing your situation, as I’ve been there before, I figured I’d offer some comfort where comfort was due.
Sadine Summerflow says: You’re… a strange one, though I have a feeling you’ve been told that.
Nyxxa says: I’d take strange over many other things.
Sadine Summerflow says: Fair enough.
Nyxxa says: And I think that is that.
Sadine Summerflow says: Anar’alah belore, for what it’s worth.... by the light of the sun. It’s a farewell in our tongue.
Nyxxa says: … that word has changed a lot.
Sadine Summerflow says: I imagine that’s true of many, if what you say of what you were is true.
Nyxxa says: Ande’thoras-ethil. It’s a farwell. May your troubles be diminished.
Sadine Summerflow says: At least we’re together. It’s better than being alone.
Nyxxa says: I’m glad for that, at least.

Sadine nods to her, and the two of them turn away, leaving Nyxxa to leave. Nyxxa thanks the orcs who were watching, going over the Thalassian phrase in her head.

December 2nd

Halno goes to investigate the manor he had previously discovered that seemed vaguely familiar to him. He approaches, and he knocks. There’s a degree of familiarity as he walks the path and looks up at the manor.

There is a pause, and the door opens to reveal a felblood elf. He looks at Halno with narrowed eyes.

Felblood Elf says: Can I help you? Stranger?
Halno says: Ah. Yes.

He’s more looking at the house.

Halno says: Good to meet you. My name is Halno. I live… down that way.

He gestures to Gramgun’kur.

Halno says: I was hoping to take a look at… that.

He gestures to the telescope.

Felblood Elf says: May I ask why?
Halno says: I’m curious. I don’t think I’ve seen anything like it. Not to this scale. I’m a scholar, of sorts. I enjoy… collecting all sorts of information.

The felblood elf squints, and shouts something in Thalassian to the others.

Felblood Elf says [Thalassian]: Hey, there’s a strange man here who wants to come inside.

Two more felblood elves peek their heads out of various hallways.

Second Felblood Elf says: He just wants to take a look at the telescope? I don’t see why not. As long as he doesn’t try anything funny.
Halno says: I can’t think of anything I would want to try. You outnumber me.
Second Felblood Elf says: Glad you noticed. I’ve seen you around.
Halno says: Oh?
Second Felblood Elf says: You’re that mage who was standing by that one orc chieftain. You had the skeletons during the meeting, correct?
Halno says: Yes. I really should replace them. Yes. My name is Halno, and who am I speaking with?
Second Felblood Elf says: Solion, if you have to know.
Halno says: Pleasure to meet you.
Solion says: Sure. As a gesture of good faith between neighbors, come, I’ll take you there.
Halno says: Fantastic.

Solion leads him up through the house, though Halno feels like he would likely not get lost anyway. The manor itself is filled with all sorts of… things. Ritualistic implements. Daggers. Half-scribed scrolls, others that are complete. Magic foci. Weapons. It’s not organized well, but it’s not dirty or messy, more just cluttered. As he passed by a cellar, the door is cracked, and Halno can hear laughter and voices down below.

There is one voice that appears to be more frightened.

Frightened Voice says: What are you planning on doing? I don’t know more.

Solion shuts the door as he passes, leading Halno up to the roof.

They arrive in a sort of attic. As Halno looks around, he notices some astrological books on the shelves, but many of them are empty. There is also a chart of the stars on the wall, with the telescope jutting out from the far side of the attic.

Halno walks over to the telescope and inspects it. He can tell that some parts were recently replaced, and it was damaged, but it appears to be in working order. He sits in the chair, and it does look like it’s functional. He pokes around it a bit, and he notes how the orrerys move with the telescope, and they appear to symbolize the movements of the sun and the two moons around the world. The sight of them is vaguely annoying, as if they are incorrect.

Solion says: Yeah, those were broken when we got here. We haven’t been able to fix them. Oddly enough, they look to have been made by dwarves.
Halno says: What the fuck is a dwarf?
Solion says: Short, stout, stubborn bastards. They live south. It’s not common to find them north, so it’s curious that Sylvos would have them here. Perhaps he had friends, or he just bought them. Hard to say.
Halno says: Huh. Was he… into this astrology much, or…?
Solion says: It’s hard to say. I know his wife was, or is, a sailor. Maybe that had something to do with it.
Halno says: Ah, that would make sense.
Unnamed Felblood Elf says: Aw, how sweet, I bet he liked to keep an eye on the star charts to tell if his sweetheart would be caught in a storm.
Solion says: I suppose that’s possible…
Halno says: There’s no way to fix the damn moons?
Solion says: As I said, the mechanisms are more like those found in Ironforge. I suppose if you find some way to fix the mechanism, you can move them.

He tries to grab a rod and move it, but it doesn’t budge.

Halno says: isn’t it strange that they moved out of alignment?
Solion says: I don’t know astrology. The place was in bad shape. It’s possible it was broken during the invasion.
Halno says: Mm. That’s unfortunate.
Solion says: What do you care about this anyway?
Halno says: I’m investigating the Windrunners. Sylvos was a Windrunner, wasn’t he?
Solion says: Fair enough. Well, if you’re looking for information here, you won’t find much. The whole place was cleared out. I assume looters.
Halno says: I don’t know many orcs willing to take… books, or anything not of immediate value.
Solion says: Maybe it wasn’t orcs. It could have been someone else, from our group, or the Resistance. Heck, for all I know, Sylvos cleared it out before he left.
Halno says: Mmmm. Well, unfortunate. I was hoping to discover anything. Very well, thank you for your time.
Unnamed Felblood Elf says: Well, actually! We were combing the cliffsides nearby to get a scope of the area. We did find something, a torn up bedsheet, but it likely belonged to Sylvos. I don’t know why it would be out unless someone threw it out the window.
Halno says: The… cliff?
Unnamed Felblood Elf says: Yeah. The cliff overlooking the Forbidding Sea.
Halno says: Can you show me?
Unnamed Felblood Elf says: I guess. I don’t want to head out there, but…

He leads Halno to a window and points to the cliff through the rain.

Unnamed Felblood Elf says: It was stuck on one of those rocks. We had to fly down to get it. Unless you can float down or are a good climber… I suppose there may be something underwater, but no guarantees you’ll find anything good.
Halno says: Hm. Why… would you go through that effort to grab a bedsheet?
Unnamed Felblood Elf says: Well. We didn’t realize it until we got it. We thought it might have been something more valuable.
Halno says: Unfortunate. Is there a way around the side?
Unnamed Felblood Elf says: Well, your options are straight down or straight up.

As Halno gets a better look, he sees that is, in fact, the case, as the cliff is basically a sheer drop.

Unnamed Felblood Elf says: Honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if this building used to be a lighthouse. There are other lighthouses that aren’t functioning at the moment. It wouldn’t surprise me.
Halno says: Would you be willing to trade for the spell feather fall?
Unnamed Felblood Elf says: I’m sure someone has that spell. I’d have to ask around.
Halno says: I’d be willing to trade a scroll for it. If you were interested.

The felblood elf talks to Solion for a moment, asking if he knows anyone, and they agreed they could probably trade for it. Though the felblood elf also suggests Halno take a look at the arcane sanctums or see if Runesight happens to have a scroll of feather fall as well.

Halno thanks them, and the elves say to check back in a day about the trade. It seemed familiar. If he’s able to fix the mechanism it *might* help.




Meanwhile, Arthak wishes to talk to Shaspira and Runesight

He sends a message to Shaspira to see if she wants something from Kilnar’s manor. She responds by saying she doesn’t know what Kilnar has but would be willing to pay a bounty for what he finds if it’s interesting magically or culturally.

Then he goes to see Runesight in Magister’s terrace. Runesight is pacing back and forth while reading. Noticing Arthak, he closes the tome. There is a sharp-toothed smile as he casts a spell. He calls for Nesslyn, who appears lounging in a soft chair.

She welcomes Arthak back and tells him that Runesight wishes him well, and explains that thanks to his spell he can understand Arthak though he cannot speak Arthak’s tongue.

Arthak Saurfang says: I came here to speak of a matter of business. Another way in which we can aid one another.

Runesight nods and speaks to Nesslyn.

Nesslyn says: Lord Runesight would like to know how he can be of assistance. After all, he is eager to see the Gatekeeper destroyed. The sooner the orcish people can start their conquest, the better for all.
Arthak Saurfang says: Agreed. In that case, he is familiar with Kilnar? The… last name escapes me. Your elven tongue.

Runesight laughs and says a name, which Nesslyn translates it to “Goldensword”.

Nesslyn says: Yes. He is familiar.

Runesight continues to speak and Nesslyn translates for Arthak.

Nesslyn says: Before the fall of the Thalassian government, she was the Seeker of Wisdom--one of the king’s advisors. Her responsibility to was securing artifacts for the elven people and ensuring the knowledge and information of the world is not lost.
Arthak Saurfang says: According to my intelligence, she is the most powerful elven magister still residing in the city. Hiding, of course, behind a prismatic wall… as I’ve been told.

Runesight nods.

Nesslyn says: From amongst the Convocation, two of the members besides the king himself were powerful mages. With the Grand Magister’s Belo’vir Salonar’s death, Magistrix Goldensword is one of the most powerful, yes. Besides the king in exile and some of his other closest advisors. And of course, Lord Runesight himself. As the Grand Magister of the Shadowsword he is one of the most powerful magi remaining in the city.
Arthak Saurfang says: But not one of the ones holding up the Gatekeeper.
Nesslyn says: That is very true.
Arthak Saurfang says: Thus we have ourselves a problem and a target. Thankfully most of what i need to penetrate the prismatic wall I already have, but I have come seeking those magical arms I don’t have access to at the present.

Arthak notes that it appears Runesight’s transformation into a demon has been complete, as his horns are much longer, his wings stronger and wider, and he appears far more imposing than he once did.

The two go over the list of what is needed, as Halno compiled. Nesslyn reports that Runesight can, for a 1000 gold fee, assist with two spells. For 2000 each, he could provide them as spell scrolls. However, Runesight would like an artifact that would allow him to offer his help for free. He desires Belo’vir’s spellbook. It was gifted to lady Shaspira after Caria slayed him.

Arthak says he’ll see what he can do. But also offers that all artifacts, including the building itself, would be divvied up to those that help him take the manor.

Upon this offer, Runesight reconsiders and offers his help for 800 provided he would get some of the spoils. Potentially, even some of the fee may be returned to Arthak if the spoils are particularly worthy.

Nesslyn says: However, because Magistrix Goldensword is of no small strength, he requires some compensation as insurance.
Arthak Saurfang says: Incase I die, of course.

Nesslyn blinks and opens her mouth, taken aback as she was not going to say that.

Nesslyn says: ...Yes, in case things go poorly.
Arthak Saurfang says: Understandable. I will consider the offer, and I will inform Grand Magister Runesight before we make a move on the manor, whether his agreement has been accepted or not. I will also make inquiries as to the spellbook. Regardless, you will be informed whether or not I will partake in this deal.

Runesight nods and bows, a hand over his chest.

Nesslyn says: My lord Runesight is honored and eager to hear of your movements. He wishes you the best of luck. He also wishes for me to inform you that he hopes the young Levia has been an asset to you.
Arthak Saurfang says: So far, and for her own interest, hopefully she remains so. I do appreciate your lord’s generosity in loaning her to me.

Runesight nods and speaks again, his brow furrowing.

Nesslyn says: But my lord would like to issue a warning. Levia is… difficult to control. Be careful with what you trust her with. She is known to be rebellious.
Arthak Saurfang says: Noted, and with thanks. Thankfully I trust few.
Nesslyn says: Wise plan.

Nesslyn comments, this time not translating Runesight’s words but instead her own.

Nesslyn says: If there is aught else you require?
Arthak Saurfang says: No, I am satisfied for now.
Nesslyn says: It was a pleasure to see you again.
Arthak Saurfang says: Likewise, Lady Nesslyn.

Nesslyn nods and sinks back into her chair. Runesight bows again before flicking his tome open again to return to his business.

Arthak bows to Runesight and Nesslyn before leaving.




Arthak then goes to talk to Shaspira after all, having to discuss the price of Belo’vir’s spellbook.

Whenever he goes into Shaspira’s office, he finds more things on display. He sees ornate blades of elvish design, a spiraling horn, ornate scrolls, chalices, jewelry and a stand with a suit of military armor. Her hand is outstretched toward a runic circle on fire with a creature with a large maw. The two are speaking in eredun.

Arthak is stunned upon being exposed to the eredun language.

With the wave of her hand, Shaspira dismisses the runes and the fire. She’s in a maroon dress.

She asks Arthak if ought is amiss. He says it has been sometime since he heard her people’s tongues.

Getting to business, Arthak updates Shaspira to his resource gathering. He mentions Runesight wishes for Belo’vir’s spellbook. Shaspira mentions she’s surprised he didn’t ask her himself, but she isn’t surprised that he wants it given his ambition. She says she could be convinced to part with it. She asks if he had an offer in mind, or is looking for suggestions.

Which Arthak is open to suggestions, not really knowing the worth of a spellbook himself.

She says either something of equal value or a service. She says she needs someone to deliver something to Hellfire Citadel in person. She says the object isn’t easy to deliver and would be difficult to do so.

He asks, but she says she would need commitment from him before she could tell him. And would need a great deal of logistics. But it would ensure reinforcements. There was also information she could trade. She asks for information about other Legion agents she isn’t aware of, or for information about Remnii that could lead to her recapture.

Arthak will think on it, and weigh his options.

Shaspira mentions that Velhari could help with part of the barrier that requires the passwall spell. She doesn’t know what price she would ask.

Arthak mentions he will look into it. He apologizes for taking up her time. She says it is of no concern. He asks if there is anything else she needs to discuss. She says not at present, but if things change, she will have someone call for him.

She says may his meteoric rise continue on its current trajectory.




Arthak visits Go’el

Go'el is eating, but greets Arthak. They share exasperation that things are complicated.

Arthak cuts to the quick. He wants Go’el’s help with the Prismatic Wall. He says that if they want to continue to keep their heads down he would understand.

Go’el says it would likely be wise for the Frostwolves to assist with this. Arthak then brings out the list. Go’el says that shamans could help with the elements.

In return, he would ask for assistance. Rehgar is looking into the skarvyn. He has a soft spot for those who are enslaved, and wants information. Go’el is looking into something Shamanic. He wishes to save his world, as Draenor is dying. Go’el wishes to learn about the elements of Azeorth, and it may help him bring the elements into balance in Draenor. But he needs a catalyst to help. An artifact that could help to commune with the elements.

Go'el says: I heard what happened at Stormreaver Spire. The smalltooth mages that conjured those elementals… they bend the elementals to their will, but from the descriptions I heard, it was different. Perhaps even the knowledge these elvish magi have could lead us to discovery. By finding out how they bind the elements of this world to their will, perhaps I could learn how to commune with the strange and chaotic elements of this world. I understand plumbing the depths of one of their libraries doesn’t sound entertaining, but perhaps that is one avenue that could be followed.
Arthak Saurfang says: I can look into it, Go’el, and I can talk to Rehgar. The Frostwolves are kin to the Broken Blade, you have my help even without promising to help.
Go'el says: You have my thanks, my friend. Of course, if you don’t end up needing our assistance, I will still try to compensate with whatever I can.
Arthak Saurfang says: We can work out the details as needed, but, my friend… Draenor is lost, I would not… I would ask that you not set yourself up for disappointment.

Go’el puts a hand on Arthak’s shoulder.

Go'el says: I am remiss to turn my back on our home, but if this is to become our home, I should introduce myself at the very least.
Arthak Saurfang says: That is fair. I will see what I can do. And I will talk to Rehgar. But thank you.
Go'el says: Of course. Make sure you take care of yourself, Arthak. This war will drag your spirit through the dirt, and bury you beneath stone not even I can reach. There are people who count on you now. There always have been. Don’t lose sight of that. Not out of fear of letting them down, but out of concern for them.

Arthak sighs.

Arthak Saurfang says: You have to have a soul in the first place. Until next time, Go’el.

As Arthak turns, he sees the flickering forms of the spectral wolves guarding Go’el tent.

Go'el says: Arthak. That blade consumes everything it touches. And yet here you stand. Don’t give it more strength than it already has. And don’t give it credit. Your strength is what has led you to take the steps you have.
Arthak Saurfang says: The sword only took its piece.
Go'el says: Then cling for the rest of your spirit. That is something no one can take from you. Not unless you surrender it.
Arthak Saurfang says: I appreciate your words, Go’el.
Go'el says: I hope you’re doing more than appreciating them, Arthak.

Go’el gives Arthak a smile.

Arthak Saurfang says: It’s just not a path you’re going to understand. Just let me walk it.
Go'el says: I was not aware that family allowed family to walk paths alone? You said it yourself Arthak. You are not alone. And the moment you surrender to fear, that is the moment there is no turning back. Just try to remember that.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’ll let you know if I find anything. Keep your hands clean. That’s your job.

Arthak turns to leave again, and Go’el watches him go, following him to the door. He takes one more deep breath and he glances over to his Frostwolf. It’s ears are drooped, and there’s a soft wine.

Go'el says: ...I know.




Azgadaan, meanwhile, is looking for a sieve, but is unable to find one.

Nyxxa, knowing what a sieve is, offers to make one but she doesn’t take money. Instead she exchanges the service for asking him to help her teach Levia orcish. Azgadaan agrees and they have some small talk




Arthak goes to speak to Rehgar and updates him on the wall situation, and then asks about his information on the skarvyn. Rehgar wants several living specimens and wants to know how they are being controlled as he wants to potentially free them, and turn them against Sinestra.

Arthak agrees this is a good idea, and he will do what he can to find information on it.




They start heading off in the boat in order to go to the mainland. Lantresor, Sadras, and Thura see them off.

They are taking Levia, Samaara, Sagaz and Azuka with them.

Sadras and Arthak share a moment.

Arthak Saurfang says: There’s a fight coming. I look forward to sharing it.
Sadras says: Yeah. That makes two of us.

Sadras pushes her forehead against Arthak’s.

Sadras says: Are you sure you don’t want me to go with you?
Arthak Saurfang says: For now. It’s best that as many of you stay here as possible. It won’t be long.

Sadras’s shoulders sink a bit.

Sadras says: Alright. I’ll hold you to that. But remember your people need you too.
Arthak Saurfang says: I know.
Sadras says: I need you.
Arthak Saurfang says: And I need you. It won’t be long. I promise.

Sadras smiles.

Sadras says: Alright.

Sadras pulls away.

Thura Saurfang says: I’ll keep making sure our warriors are trained. Be safe, chieftain.
Arthak Saurfang says: Thank you, cousin. We will need them sooner rather than later.

Thura offers a salute and the group heads off.

The group hangs out on the boat as they voyage across the straight. Nyxxa teachs Levia more orcish, Samarra teaches Azgadaan more draenic.

December 3rd

They arrive at the mainland, and they note that it is starting to get colder.

The clear day is giving away to darker skies as they head to Sunstrider Island. It almost seems to be something more supernatural.

There is a darkened mist, and there is the crackling of lightning. They approach the remains of a massive elvish building, which now has lightning coursing around it. Some of the pathways around it are no longer parallel to the ground, supernaturally twisted around the building. There are chunks of stone and other walkways hovering suspended in the air. The magic around it is very powerful

At the outskirts of the ruins, some of Keli’dan’s men are around investigating, and Arthak also sees Keli’dan himself. They head down to speak with him after Azgadaan uses enhance ability on Arthak.

Keli'dan the Breaker says: Lok’tar, chieftain!
Arthak Saurfang says: Lok’tar, Master Breaker.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: I wasn’t expecting to see you in this area. What draws your attention?
Arthak Saurfang says: Only you.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: Ha! I’m flattered. And yet I heard you were recently mated to another!

Keli’dan claps Arthak on the shoulder.

Keli'dan the Breaker says: But it seems you found me!
Arthak Saurfang says: I wish to acquire your aid if you were willing to grant it.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: I have boons a plenty for my friends, but I assume you know I would expect the same from my own.
Arthak Saurfang says: Of course, that is no surprise.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: Let me guess, this has to deal with that coalition of yours?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yeah. Specifically, the manor of Kilnar Goldensword.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: That was the one wreathed in that strange magic, yes?
Arthak Saurfang says: The one guarded by a rainbow, yes.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: Leave it to these elves. It seems they are apt to--
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes, they kill with color. It is their way it seems.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: As it seems! But I’d be willing to assist you. But I’ll need your help. Something I think a mover like yourself would be able to accomplish where my own have failed. I’m sure you’ve noticed the decor in the area?

He gestures at the isle.

Keli'dan the Breaker says: There’s a source to this. A source I’d like to bring in and take for myself. Alive, preferably.

He then points at the ruins.

Keli'dan the Breaker says: That was called Falthrien Academy. It was a school of magic, one of the greatest of them. In the twilight weeks before the fall of Silvermoon, I am led to believe one of the students within detonated a powerful spell that tore the building asunder. That magic has only spread beyond the barricades, fueled by the shadowy magics that my clan and Cho’gall’s clan command. That magic is something I would like to bring under my command.
Arthak Saurfang says: I see. Seems a fair trade.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: Quite so. Now, therein lies the rub. I don’t know what the source is beyond the individual responsible. I spoke at length with the Shadowsword who were willing to speak with me. I’m led to believe a strange elf by the name of Felendren is the one that detonated the spell. I am also led to believe he now commands the entities that guard this aberrant structure.
Arthak Saurfang says: I see. So you would like us to gain entry into this academy, kill its guardians, take this Felendren alive or dead?
Keli'dan the Breaker says: I would prefer him alive. I’m sure his peculiar status is something I could learn from, and perhaps I can reverse the strange nature of this land. By controlling that power, I hope to command it. Not to mention, the wraiths he commands, I believe them to be echoes of those caught in the blast.
Arthak Saurfang says: I see.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: These creatures are echoes of their former selves. Tormented as they are, it would be beneficial to put them to rest. Perhaps we may be able to utilize them against our enemies, but that will be decided later.
Arthak Saurfang says: Of course. Interesting options. Now, I am scouting to see what other options are present, but if it is beneficial and I am able to assist you with this, I will let you know, and I will be quick about it.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: of course, alive or dead, I will help you topple that barrier once Felendren is in our custody. But if you bring him alive, I will make it worth your time.
Arthak Saurfang says: I can make promises for his head to be attached. His legs, arms, and teeth… not so much.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: As long as he’s alive, it matters not. But even dead, there are things I can glean. I have reason to believe he is not an elf any longer. Not truly. Whatever he has become will be useful.. Something to learn from.
Arthak Saurfang says: Very well.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: But of course, this is not your responsibility. But if you take it up, I will gladly watch you succeed. Even more impressive will you to bring him back without his head attached! We all know your propensity for decapitation.

Keli’dan smiles.

Arthak Saurfang says: I’m trying to become less predictable.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: Well a good opportunity for you to test your mettle!
Arthak Saurfang says: I’ll let you know.
Keli'dan the Breaker says: Of course. I’m curious to see how your warband would operate in such a place. The magics beyond are unpredictably wild.
Arthak Saurfang says: Noted.

As the group glances to the academy again, they see the lightning arcing, and there are signs of strange creatures appearing and disappearing, and disappearing against the very edges of the area only to rematerialize deeper inside. There are also large mana wyrms, which seem to be less docile than they normally seem to be. As they watch, one feasts on one of the wraiths.