[Horde] Session Seventeen

The blackened portions of the island slowly start to crumble over the next several days. It will likely take several months, but over time half the island would be in the sea.

In Azgadaan’s downtime, he was able to scour the wreckage. As he looked around, he was able to find some pretty sturdy bracers. He takes them to Remnii to try on, and there were about two that would fit her well. One of them was sturdier and thicker, and the other one was smaller and more versatile. He chose the sturdier one.

He also opted to take a few risks during the enchantment process, for hopefully higher payout.

It takes Azgadaan some time to get the enchantment to stick. However, eventually it does. The day before Arthak returned, he was able to complete the item. As he completes it, it seems to have held the abjuration spell.

However, it was not exactly what Azgadaan was expecting. It didn’t seem to require a command word. As he looked closer, it seemed that they were actually a modification on the “bracers of defense”. However, the enchantment was prone to being damaged. After being struck by an attack, the enchantment shuts down for one round.

Azgadaan gives it to Remnii, and she gives him a sheepish smile.

Remnii: “Well, Azgadaan, as I said you did not have to do this, but as I said, thank you. I will use it well.”

Azgadaan: “Well, ideally it’ll protect you and, therefore, everyone else.”

Remnii laughs and thanks him again.

Azgadaan: “Well, now that that’s done, I’m gonna go get my ass handed to me by Yrel.”

Remnii asks that he try not to get too exhausted so he can pay attention later.

Over the two weeks, Yrel also worked with Azgadaan to get him acclimated with heavy armor.

Azgadaan also asks M’uru if it’s possible to shut off a demon’s connection to the Twisting Nether so they cannot reform, but M’uru was unable to provide an answer. Ultimately, if Azgadaan didn’t want to reform and risk coming back with no memory, he had to safeguard himself.


Sorak spent the two weeks kind of just taking “me time”. He was able to note that the strange, twisted wildlife of the area was also dying with the island. The cause seemed to be acute cardiac arrest. Effectively, the lack of the source of the corruption was causing them to die off.

During his time ranging, Sorak found some wilted, but still good, basic amenities. He was able to restock his general, mundane alchemical supplies.

She also would occasionally chat with Samaara as sometimes they would bump into each other while ranging. They shared some good conversations about ogres and the like.


Mork, Mindi, and the boat are flagged down and Mork and Mindi come ashore. Mork has a sailing cap. No idea where he got it. However, both of them are proficient sailors now.


(Continued from Pink and Blue, How Are You? The thread)

Remnii considers for a moment. “Now, being as honest as you can… would you consider yourself truly having gone rogue?”

Spinyl: “Well I haven’t been reporting back, that’s strike one for me. I helped murder a high-ranking demon, that’s strike two. Hence why I’m saying the axe is still above me. At my inevitable third act, it comes crashing down.”

Remnii: “I can’t imagine you are… well… we’ll start from the beginning. Sorak’s heavy prejudice is his own, and with all of these small support networks beginning, you have been feeling the odd one out, have you not?”

Spinyl: “That’s the short of it. Though I suppose nothing could be said of that. I’m a demon. Unapologetically so. And yet, as, I am ‘not like other demons’” she says dramatically with a hand over her head. Remnii laughs.

“I suppose it’s that unapologetic nature that has gotten you that distrust which has been feuling the issue, as opposed to Azgadaan who has taken a more heavy-handed approach.”

Spinyl explains she misses pretending to be an orc because she at least got some respect.

Remnii laughs and jokes about being Arthak, and Spinyl mentions Glaasha - good name according to Remnii!

Remnii: “I do not understand much about your particular situation, truthfully. Yes, I have been running for my life, but there is a difference between having some amount of autonomy and none at all. Now, if you could have it your way, how would you have it in the most ideal setting? Be honest, now. What would your life be?”

Spinyl: “I’d be free to do whatever I want. No bosses, not queens, no Legion. I’d do whatever I want, go wherever I want.” She sighs. “Impossible dreams like that.” She smiles suddenly, jokingly.

Remnii: “Impossible, huh?”

Spinyl: “Impossible.”

Remnii: “Well, do you recall that veil I talked to you about earlier? Somehow… I do not think that many things are quite as impossible as they seem anymore. They are just more scary, even in concept. But it will not be a short process. Even Azgadaan may underestimate his uphill journey. That being said, something for you to think about. If you had no bosses, if you could go anywhere, still, what do you want? Not something you need to answer, just a question.”

Spinyl shrugs.

Remnii: “Food for thought, that is all. But in the meantime, what will you do? If you have not reported back, are you going cold turkey, or…”

Spinyl: “Well, I told Boss I’d have to report back eventually. In fact, I asked him if he wanted to watch, but he didn’t take me up on that offer.”

After a short pause, Remnii: “When do you intend to report back to your… queen?”

Spinyl: “Probably soon. Couse I did want to get feedback from the rest of the group as to what’s okay I do say and don’t say. I have to get back to her with something, and to be quite honest, you know that infighting among demons is a think, so I can tell her about Socrethar without… any blowback actually.”

Remnii said it was not for her to say, but she asks again if it’s Spinyl’s plan to report back for some time. Spinyl confirms as, eventually, two annoying succubi may show up to hound them someday.

Remnii: “That being said… I’m sorry you have been so alone for so long. It is not an easy thing to do. Yet, the person you are I believe deserves more than that. Be it bold of me.”

Spinyl: “Suppose we’ll just have to see if I’m worthy of making that climb. Well, either way, this is my break for freedom after all. If I fail and die, maybe I just come back like I was supposed to. Suck for you guys though.”

Remnii: “You would be far less interesting. Still. On your break for freedom, I cannot promise I want to be anyone’s mother…”

Spinyl: “Could be a friend.”

Remnii: “That’s about what I was going to say anyway.”

Spinyl: “Though, Blue?”

Remnii: “Yes?”

Spinyl: “I have a proposition for the start of this friendship.”

Remnii: “Ah, mention friends and now we’re on propositions.”

Spinyl: “I’m a succubus, and we are technically business partners. We forged that in Tempest Keep.”

Remnii: “Ahh, Papa! Look what I’ve been up to! Right, go on...”

Spinyl: “Why don’t you watch as I make the report? No one may believe me otherwise. No one trusts me. I’m the delegated liar of the group, and I’m good at it. But, if it’s coming from you, what I said is what I said and they’ll believe you. You don’t have to do it, but it will help me.”

Remnii considers for a moment. “That being said, earnest question, do you think it would be wise to sneak around? Do you think it would be advantageous?”

Spinyl: “I could turn you invisible.”

Remnii: “That’s one way to go.”

Spinyl: “You don’t have to if you don’t want to.”

Remnii: “I know. It’s a serious matter. Can I take some time to consider it? After all, we have time to ourselves. I should weigh the options overall for the warband in it’s entirety.”

Spinyl: “That’s fair. At this point, it’s been a while. A few more days isn’t going to make a difference.”

Remnii: “In that regard, let us adjourn for the time being. I will give you an answer before long.”

Spinyl: “I was nice talking to ya.”

Remnii: “And you.”

Spinyl: “Well, it’s going to be a challenge to get back in that tree.”

Remnii: “Well, you don’t have to.” She pats in front of her, and Spinyl goes and sits down. “Are you okay with me touching you?”

Spinyl: “Are you okay with touching me?”

Remnii: “I think I’ll be fine.”

A bit later, Spinyl’s hair is nicely braided.


Azgadaan and Yrel boot up the repaired Crystal Chronicle, but it’s hilariously boring and dry as far as the lessons and manuals contained within. It’s very informative, but not the most interesting content. There is no information on fighting as a Vindicator - it’s just how to act as a Vindicator and what it means to be one. There was also some information on Argus as it was.


Spinyl goes and parties with the Laughing Skulls (and to inform them that their island is crumbling).

The exact situation that happened previously happened again. She killed another Laughing Skull. However, she looked like Lazuli this time - one of her fellow coven members.

Again, none of the Laughing Skulls seem mad.

However, as she drops her disguise, her hair didn’t revert color. It’s now stuck blue. Even after she prestidigitations it back, it occasionally flickers back to blue.


A few days later, Remnii agrees to meet the Queen of Whispers. She met with Yrel and Samarra for council. Samaara advises caution and Yrel doesn’t like it.

Spinyl leaves out Remnii as Velen’s daughter and what they found at the bottom of Tempest Keep. She pulls off an excellent lie and Nerezza cannot see (from what we can tell) that she’s covering up the truth.

“There’s been some activity of late.” Nerezza pauses.

Spinyl asks what type of activity.

“Have you ever heard of the Queen of Bones before?” Her face flashes with anger.

Spinyl thinks on it. “Familiar, but I don’t know anything about her.”

Nerezza: “Well, as it turns out, I believe she is… going to be beginning her own operation on Draenor, and I don’t believe she will be alone.”

Spinyl: “As in her coven or other queens?”

Nerezza: “Worse, I fear. Worse even so that she’s blocked any attempts I made to uncover who.”

Spinyl correctly assumes other demons.

Nerezza: “That contemptible harlot can be capricious and fickle.”

“What is her schtick?”

“She’s called the Queen of Bones because she’s so adept at breaking, and taking them, too. I would be lying if I said her coven wasn’t formidable. Watch your back, Sweetling, she will likely target you.”

Spinyl: “I only hope she will underestimate me.”

Nerezza: “We can only hope she will be so foolish, sweetling, but expect the worst. Was there anything else you required of me?”

Spinyl asks her if she can learn about anything regarding what the warband has been doing on Draenor and the fallout of it, and Nerezza says she will see what she can do.

However, she also warns Spinyl that Remnii’s identity is not so secret. After all, the name Velen spreads quickly through the Legion. She also asks Spinyl to be cautious so she doesn’t get hurt.

Spinyl says she will do so.

Nerezza leaves with a few more words with a swirl of her cloak after she complements Spinyl’s hair. Spinyl gives a sigh of relief.

After a few minutes, Remnii gets up. “I’m not so certain it was the best idea for me to listen. I was not aware she would be appearing in person. In that regard, I’m not so sure she would have mentioned me if… well, it’s not so hard to see a shade of blue.”

Spinyl: “I suppose she already knew who you were then. That goes that plan.”

Remnii: “I find myself unsurprised. I suppose I will deal with this backlash when it comes time.”

Spinyl expressed that she seemed to be in a mostly good mood, at least.

They head back, and Spinyl reports that the Legion.


Sorak is on watch several days later. As the sun is rising, he sees white fur in the distance. Sorak immediately starts to perform a ritual as Wintermaw starts loping towards him at a full sprint. He leaps up and knocks him flat on his ass and starts to lick his face.

Sorak greets him happily.

As he licks Sorak, in his own way, Wintermaw barks happily. Sorak is able to understand him thanks to speak with animals. “MISSED YOU SO MUCH!”

Sorak immediately starts to wrestle him and they tussle on the ground. It’s really endearing.

Arthak, Kaylaan, and Lantresor walk by.

Azgadaan is confused by Lanresor.

Kaylaan cheerfully makes a jibe at Sorak, and Sorak immediately stops and stares at him.

Sorak: “What happened to you on that mountain?”

Kaylaan: “What didn’t happen on that mountain?”

Sorak welcomes Kaylaan back, and then looks at the banner Arthak is displaying.

Sorak: “I take it your trip went well?”

Arthak: “...I met my grandfather. Then I killed him. Then I made a sword.”

Remnii: “Wait, did I come in at the wrong time?”

Arthak: “No, that was gist. And now I’m, well, I’m starting a clan.”

Samaara, Azgadaan, Remnii, and Yrel all raise their eyebrows. Spinyl congratulates him.

Azgadaan: “What’s the name?”

Arthak: “The Broken Blade.”

Introductions are exchanged.

The group lets Arthak know what happened at Tempest Keep. Sorak steps down as Arthak’s second, and then explains in more detail what he did to Azgadaan.

Arthak is quiet for a moment. “Hmm. Alright. Is there anything else?”

Sorak also mentions the naaru they launched.

Sorak: “That being said, I can still be a shaman for you, but second is not a role I’m suited for.”

Arthak said he still wants Sorak amongst the warband. However, he apologized.

Sorak asked why.

Arthak didn’t ask Sorak to be his second - the role was just assigned.

However, Sorak still wanted to keep minimal secrets between them, and it was agreed.

The captain alerts the group they are preparing to set sail back to Hellfire Keep.

Arthak alerts the group they need to talk, and then he names Kaylaan as his new second as Sorak had stepped down. Kaylaan was incredibly surprised, but he did express he was willing to do so.

Azgadaan: “So… if we are in the warband, are we just automatically in the clan or… how does that work?”

Arthak: “I was just getting to that. First, I want to thank you all for trusting in me while I was in the throes of the blood rage - or at least, not doing what would have been a far more practical thing to.. Well. Thank you. I also want to apologize for some of the decisions I’ve made. Among other things, while I was on that mountain I had time to consider my previous actions as leader of this warband. Suffice to say, I can look back and see the mistakes that were made. High on that list of mistakes was a lack of trust. I never told anyone what I did what I did with the Eye, and what I saw, and when the question has been put to me about what my goals are… what this is all leading to, and… I have been hesitant to give answers to that.” He looks at Spinyl. “Ner’zhul told me I would learn something if I touched the Eye. Something I’ve wanted to know - the circumstances of my father’s death. Now, I wouldn’t put it past the shaman or the Eye to tell me something I want to hear, but regardless, I saw my father raise blade against Sargeras himself and carve his eye from his socket.”

Azgadaan: “If your father did carve out the Eye, how did he get it back to Draenor?”

Arthak: “I doubt he did. I imagine he died immediately after. Other forces probably brought the eye back. So. My father did that. Gave up his life because, to use his words, ‘we are not pawns’. Now he was talking about orcs specifically. But. Well. I choose not to be picky. None of us are pawns in the Legion’s game. So Spinyl, you asked me if I intended to take on the Legion, and my answer is yes.”

Spinyl assumed that was the situation anyway. She then told Arthak she did talk to her queen, and that Remnii was present. They know that Socrethar is dead, but the Legion doesn’t know who killed him.

Arthak: “Well. Alright. That works out then.”

He then extends an offer to Spinyl to join his clan, and he extends it to the rest of the warband as well.

Samaara and Yrel pass.

Kaylaan: “Damn, I was hoping we could outnumber the orcs completely.”

Spinyl joins, but in her excitement, her hair turns blue. Remnii complements the shade as it matches her eyes. She’s so conflicted.

Azgadaan remains with the draenei’s choice. However, he asks Arthak if the offer extends to Mork and Mindi as they are part of the warband.

Arthak relents.

Remnii also insists that Azgadaan give the spyglass back to its proper owner.

They discuss plans for Hellfire Citadel. Remnii is insistent that Arthak exercise caution with some of his plans.

Plus, the Horde probably all know that Sorak is a shaman at this point. They decide to try and spin it as useful offensively.


Remnii goes to welcome Arthak back personally a few days before they leave. Arthak thanks her, but she comments that he sound confused. He comments that they are unfamiliar words.

Remnii comments on Arthak’s new clan. She has been thinking over the last two days, but she does not believe she should split her allegiances seeing she doesn’t know of the safety of her people yet.

Arthak said that, in some time, the clan he is forming may not find itself in the good graces of the Horde, but he would still be a member of the Broken Blade and an orc.

It’s the same for everyone else.

Arthak: “If you choose to fly my banner, I would not deny you your people.”

Remnii: “It is a good thing to consider, then. If the time is right I will let you know. In the meantime, Arthak, there is one more piece of information I want to go over with you. I believe us being out from under the Horde’s thumb is at an end when we get to Hellfire Citadel. I trust you, I do, but I was wondering if you had any thoughts on the matter.”

Arthak: “The agreement I made with the warchief was that if I brought back the naaru, you and Yrel are allotted to my custody permanently. I will do what I can for Samaara, but at the very least you two will be under my protection permanently. Unless Blackhand goes against his promise, but it will serve him ill in the eyes of his warriors.”

Remnii: “I hope there are not too many unforeseen variables. But I will not keep you too much longer. But, Arthak, I’m glad to see you well, and thank you. That is quite a nice new blade.”

Arthak explains when and how he made it, and that its name is Varg - “burden”.


As they set off for the ship, Arthak notices something interesting. The ship is now sailing a (really rough) banner of the Broken Blade.

The captain is hanging on to some of the rigging with a smug smile. As the group approaches, he hops down to meet them.

Gramgun: “I’m assuming the offer you gave the rest of them, that ain’t no closed offer, is it?”

Arthak: “No.”

Gramgun: “Damn good thing, that. I would have felt like a right fool after all the work we put into that banner. My mates and I were freelancers. Not a part of a clan proper. I talked to the rest of the boys, and we like the cut o’ yer gibb. Iffin you’ll have us.”

Arthak: “I would be honored.”

Gramgun: “Then congratulations, chieftain. You just got yourself a navy.”

Both Mork and Mindi are on the ship as well. Mork gives a thumbs up and a nod, and Mindi spins him around. Arthak looks at Mork and Mindi, and then shrugs.

Azgadaan attempts to fool Arthak into thinking he made some weapons of his own by using his pact weapon, but Arthak isn’t fooled. Azgadaan is such a dork.

Azgadaan also shows off his armor and asks Arthak if he can upgrade it.

Arthak grins. He has a few ideas.

Azgadaan: “I’m glad you played along with the joke. I knew you’d catch on eventually.”

Eventually.

Arthak: “Well, you’re party of the warband… lets see what I can do with the armor.”

Yrel and Samaara also come to Arthak for upgrades.

Kaylaan did as well.


Most of the time, Remnii is sitting on M’uru.

However, Kaylaan ends up finding her during one of the times she’s not.

Kaylaan: “You know, Remnii, we should stop meeting like this.”

Remnii: “More words for the ‘great deceiver’ then?”

Kaylaan: “(Draenei version of ‘if the shoe fits’)”

Remnii: “All joking aside, is there something I can do for?”

Kaylaan: “Yes, I suppose, curiosity. After all, I arrived here on Draenor on the same vessel that is now on the bottom of the ocean. If you are in a story-telling mood, perhaps an account of what you saw in there.”

Remnii: “It was… something I wish to never be repeated. That you deserve to know, however, and some…”

She pats a seat next to her. He sits down. And Remnii tells him everything.

Kaylaan: “That is… certainly something. That the spark of a naaru can do something like that is not really surprisingly.”

Remnii: “Kaylaan, you know that naaru eventually reform after thousands of years.”

Kaylaan: “I understand. But if a creature of unbridled light can bring such chaos and darkness, it makes you wonder.”

Remnii: “I have found that, as much as anyone else, the naaru are the purest vessels of light but there is a lot going for them as far as personality and existing. I cannot say exactly what a singular spark would do if there was not an ancient and powerful lifeform, like Botan, already there. If a primal force meets another, what happens then?”

Kaylaan gestures at the island.

Remnii: “I cannot say what was Botan and what was A’dal at the end, but while it is food for thought, there cannot exist light without darkness as I’ve come to see in the last century.”

Kaylaan: “I suppose so. Another curiosity. How did you know Sulsoett?”

Remnii: “She was… part of the Ati-kaso. I know she was a former Vindicator. One of the finest.”

Kaylaan: “Did she tell you that?” He laughs.

Remnii: “Trust me, she saved my life many a times.”

Kaylaan: “Don’t get me wrong, she was a competent fighter if she remembered her weapon.”

Remnii continues to explain.

Kaylaan: “Strange how the winds of fate seem to wrap everything together. Did you know, a long time ago, the two of us were an item for a short time. Not very long.”

Remnii: “I wouldn’t have guessed!” Then she squints. “I can see it. You were both rather sour.”

Kaylaan: “When you were both of a ship, proximity tends to take over. We ended it, but we were still friends. I suppose I need to pay Culuthas back for what he did. Even though she was… whatever she was.”

Remnii: “She was no less of the woman that she was before.”

Kaylaan shrugs. “She’s gone now. It matters little. All we can do is live and kill the bastard responsible.”

Remnii agrees.

“Kaylaan, on a more serious note”- Remnii asks to advise caution with Arthak and the Legion. She doesn’t know how much longer the Horde will be different then the Legion.

Both of them have a bad feeling about going back to Hellfire. There is a storm coming.

They talk for a bit more, and then Kaylaan departs.

A few days later, they land in Tannan Jungle.

Azgadaan asks Arthak if he wants to enhance his abilities with talking for the final showdown. Arthak explains that words only go so far for the horde, though he does appreciate it. He mentions to bring it up again if they ever have to talk to the Legion.

Conversation about face tentacles.

The harbor is bustling. It appears that the Horde is preparing for war.

Arthak gets a message from Jorin Deadeye in his head requesting to speak elsewhere before he arrives.

Lantresor warns Arthak that he was exiled from the Burning Blade and bringing him back may cause ire. Arthak agrees that him staying back would be wise, and he extends the offer to the others. Azgadaan suggest Samaara remain behind as she was not part of the original deal, but she is insistent that she will not leave her sister and Remnii alone again.

No one else is staying behind.

They go to meet Jorin, who is in the opposite direction of Hellfire. Some questions are asked. Arthak expresses that Spinyl will be pleased.

Unsubtly, a familiar orc steps out. It’s Jorin Deadeye, and he is leaning heavily on his staff.

Arthak greets him. Jorin has a nasty scar right by his remaining good eye.

Jorin says the scar is part of the reason he had to talk to them. Arthak asks where Dranosh is, and he pauses before saying that he is up ahead.

As they walk for a bit longer, Jorin explains Varok sent them out. The mission was vital. Things sound ominous. As they break through the foliage, they see a ramshackle shelter.

They were investigating the Red Pox, and it was confirmed it protected against fel taint. Varok wanted to learn more about it.

Arthak wants to know where his uncle is, and Jorin said it would be dangerous for him to do so. Jorin explains further that they were attacked by marauders, and they had to run. Jorin was able to escape most unscathed.

He pulled the curtain aside and revealed Dranosh laying on a makeshift bed. Buried into his flesh is a fearsome wound. It’s festering and starting to become infected.

Arthak knows the wound is from Stormreavers.

Dranosh opens his eyes and greets Arthak.

Remnii had pushed herself up next to Arthak.

Spinyl begs Remnii to help him, and then Dranosh looks over to Spinyl. He greets her with a small laugh.

Sorak also steps forward to help Remnii. Everyone else backs out. Dranosh is still trying to comfort Spinyl.

Spinyl: “Shut up, you big dummy.”

Remnii is successfully able to heal the infection, and Dranosh says he is feeling better already, but Remnii keeps him down and says she is prescribing bed rest.

Jorin continues, saying that they never learned what the source of the pox was. They were trying to figure that out so they could use that as a weapon, or as protection, or as a cure. If they could use Red Pox, they could help the Fel orcs or make them docile.

He thinks they might have known they were coming. They fled north trying to fled over the sea. But they had done their damage and stole what they had managed to find. He wasn’t so sure what they were able to find- an ogre fetish. He didn’t realize how important it was until a greenskin orc grabbed it from his hands and began exhibited the symptoms. Then they have to flee.

He fears Gul’daan might have gotten his hands on it. So caution would be wise. As soon as Dranosh was safe enough to travel, they will make for Bleeding Hollow territory.

He says Arthak has to focus on delivering the Naaru, but to keep in mind what this might mean.

Arthak thanks Jorin. He asks if there is anything he wants him to relate to his father. Only what they found. Azgadaan offers sending a message to him, and Arthak agrees.

Arthak asks them to be safe and recover well.

Dranosh thanks Remnii and Sorak. Then says he wants to share some stories with Spinyl. Spinyl flusteredly says there are some story she wants to share.

The warband says goodbye to Dranosh and wish him well. Spinyl and Dranosh spend a moment. It was really cute.

~~~~~

Arthak confirms to Kaylaan that the plan hasn’t changed.

Profiles

Hellfire Citadel has camps all around it. It’s changed, though. The camps are Warcamps this time. There are hundreds of camps here, easily thousands of Orcs.

The Horde has begun to gather itself. The Warband breaches the outside of the camp. Soldiers are left and right. Eyes are locking on them as they go by. They move the fuck out of the way, as they can put two and two together.

There’s whispers of “traitor spawn” and “coward son.”

Arthak tries to intimidate, but it doesn’t seem to work.

They pass clan after clan, banners flying in the air. The smell of war wafts up and around the monolith of Hellfire Citadel. They stride forward, the Warbands part. One fight is broken up because of them.

They approach the doors of Hellfire Citadel. The door groans open.

There’s another group of Orcs. There are the banners of the Warsong Clan and Blackrock. They’re the elites, clearly. There’s not a ton. Amidst them, there’s Grom and Garrosh Hellscream. Grom’s arm are crossed and his son speaks to him.

Garrosh turns to the Warband. He sees the Naaru. A toothy grin plays across his face and the Hellscreams close the distance. ‘Well well well, look who came back, victorious, no less.”

Arthak opts to walk past Garrosh. He’s not dealing with it right now, clearly angry.

“What’s wrong Arthak, too busy to greet an old friend?” Garrosh goads. He smirks. Grom watches but says nothing.

Arthak stops, turns, and says. “I have nothing to say to you that can’t be saved for later. I have more important things now. You wait.”

Grom nods in a ~well said~ kind of way. Garrosh pouts but he sees Spinyl.

“It’s good to see you again.” He whispers.

“Do I know you?” Spinyl chirps.

“Don’t play coy. I always thought you looked a bit short for an Orc.”

Spinyl puts on a cool face and walks on by.

As the Warband enters the Citadel, Blackhand comes into view. He looks. His grey face is shocked for a moment as the band continues in-- just like they said they would… Naaru and all. He walks up the railing and looks down at the Warband and he waits.

Arthak gets to where he stood months ago. “I have what I promised Warchief. The Naaru is yours.”

Blackhand looks down and squints. He speaks to the Orc next to him for a moment before addressing him. “That you have, Arthak Saurfang. I’m more than surprised to see you back in one piece. Though, certainly not displeased, given the circumstances.”

It’s just then when the door behind Blackhand opens. There are a number of familiar faces: Gul’dan, Drek’thul (his Warlock), Terongor. There’s Kargath Bladefist and Bazooka Bladefury.

Gul’dan’s eyes meet the Naaru and a smile twists upon his face. ‘Well done, Arthak. Well done indeed. You have performed a service to the Horde that will not soon be forgotten. And you have paved the way to a new era of conquest. Well done, my young friend.

BH: “You will be rewarded for honoring your word to the Horde and for paving the way, as Gul’dan said. So tell me, Arthak Saurfang, what it is that you wish of your Warchief?”

Arthak hrrms and looks up at him. “A chance to prove myself further when the invasion itself comes.”

Blackhand smiles. “Very well, you, Arthak Saurfang, will be the Vanguard… the first to step onto a new world, a new land ripe for the conquest. A new land for the Horde.”

“Thank you, Warchief.”

“You honor your clan with your deeds.” BH says.

“I strive to, but, for the future, there is… for the war to come. There’s a different clan I intend to bring honor to.” He lets the banner speak for himself.

Blackhand, and the other Orcs, raise their eyebrows. Grom smirks. Garrosh is watching, interested-- still wearing the smug smile.

“When last we spoke,you were a member of the Blackrock clan. Has that changed?”

“It has, Warchief. Up until the Naaru, I was a proud member of the clan-- the lineage of my uncle. Well, I encountered the other half of my lineage when we encountered the Naaru. Samuro of the Burning Blade.”

Bazooka moves up to the railing.

“I encountered my grandfather once again, and I took his life.” He looks into Azuka’s eyes. There’s a kill stealing grin.

Her face contorts in anger and Azuka growls. “So you slay your own grandfather? You think that makes you worthy of starting your own clan?”

“I slew my grandfather, yes, in honorable combat… worthy of the Burning Blade.”

Azuka laughs, “YOu know of the Burning Blade.”

“More than you ever will. BUT that’s the traditionalist in my speaking, the Burning Blade now is different. And so, I chose to form a new clan, pushed forward by my deeds and my vision.

“You have a vision, coward spawn?”

‘And who is in the paltry clan of yours? Your imaginary friends?” “Broken Blade, step forward.” Arthak commands.

Kaylaan steps forward, SPinyl too. Remnii steps forward, too.

He introduces Kaylaan.

“Like any clan, it will build and it will falter. When you said I had no vision you were wrong, Bladefury. I have a vision, the vision that saw the Naaru brought back to the Citadel, the vision that brought Socrathar his knees, and the vision that saw this banner raised high. It is a vision: Honor does not make us weak.”

“Well said, the Horde is built on Honor.” Grom speaks up. “For his deeds, it’s only right the Vanguard has a banner to rally to. I support his claim.”

A number of here-heres can be heard. Gul’dan agrees. “It would be right for you to do such a thing. You forge your clan, as small as it is, for adversity and trials. I see no reason why you shouldn’t legitimize his claim. I second his support.”

“Very well!” Blackhand says. “If any oppose the Clan of the Broken Blade to be raisedunder the banner of Aethak Saurfang, now is the time to speak.”

A blade, a fowl iron blade, is thrown before Arthak. She jumps off the balcony and lands before Arthak. “You see, Arthak, you took. My. kill.”

“I took nothing of yours.”

“Allow me to take everything thing from you. I challenge you to a Mok’gorah.

Gul’dan’s face contorts to anger. “Azuka. There’s no need for this.”

She spits, “Silence, old man.” Then turns back to Arthak.

“Do you accept her challenge, Arthak?”

Kaylaan’s face says NO: “There are other ways to defend your honor. Remember what Lantressor said, he is not an easy opponent. You have nothing to prove.”

Arthak extends a hand to Kaylaan. Kaylaan looks confused. “This is not about her. It’s about them.” He tells his second. “They need to see this. We are not pawns or bitches. We are warriors. *pause* We’re going to invade another world. If I can help it, I would not inflict what my Grandfather’s clan has become. There will be enough bloodshed.”

“You are a fool to the end, Arthak.” Kaylaan “Probably.” Arthak responds. He turns to Bazooka. “I accept your challenge. Are you ready to be reunited with your father?”

“It will be a privilege to end the line of Talanth this day.”

“You knew my mother? How could younot have? Another death, another kill, I took from you. Funny, isn’t it?”

“Perhaps I’ll have to kill you and take them for mYSELF!” Azuka lunges in.

Arthak draws his new sword, the nodachi courses with fire and storm alike. Sword drawn, he connects. He’s able to clip her with each of his hits.

She smiles and bounces back, not quite fighting him directly. “Tell me, Arthak. What are you afraid of losing most? What are you afraid of losing most in this world?”

Being immune to fear, Arthak laughs. “Nothing that you can bring to bear!”

‘We’ll see about that.” He face seems to blur, for the hint of a moment she looks like Arthak’s mother. The burning runes on her weapons drip a bloody crimson as she swings in. He’s able to reflect it.

As the blood splashes across his face. He hears a scream. It’s an Orcish babe and a women in pain. Still, he shrugs it off.

He swings in and she parries his attack on all accounts. He swings in again and they clash. Arthak digs in deep and cuts into her.

She laughs, “Yes! This! This is a fight!” Azuka offers a flurry of attacks. Both hit him hard.

He counters, hitting him. She spins out of the way and bites into him hard with her sword. In the flurry, his sword goes flying far out of the way. (Spinyl cheers him on.)

Profiles June 13, 2017, at 11:52 PM

Azgadaan actually messages the protesting Gul’dan. Gul’dan says they cannot interrupt, as traditions run deep.

Profiles

He disengages and retrieves his blade.

Azuka swings up and goes for a vicious cut, blade dripping. She follows it up with two swift slashes. Arthak is able just barely riposte them to make a counter attack.

Azuka’s speed slowly droops as Arthak bleeds her with every hit and CRITS HEEERRRR. Arthak ducks under her attacks, dodging, slashing once across the face. As he turns, he turns his blade so she eviscerates herself on the blade.

She closes her eyes. When she opens them and there’s focus in her eyes. As her blade swings up, there’s a flicker. Right as the weapon goes to strike Arthak, Kaylaan dashes forward and spills out on the ground. It’s rended his left arm and the arm goes spinning.

Azuka looks down at Kaylaan and over to Arthak.

Spinyl and Remnii manage to drag him off, Azgadaan grabs his arm.

Arthak starts to make the swing and stops. “Hrrm.” He grits his teeth. “I’m not going to strike while you’re off guard.”

“How very noble of you, unlike your foolish second.”

“He did what he thought was right, his honor, not ours.”

They circle each other before Arthak swings in. He misses the first and the cuts in with his second hit.

Arthak then swings in and then damages her a number of times. Azuka is standing, still. They lunge at each other multiple times.

Finally, Arthak parries and bats her blade out of her hand. He cuts her sword arm off immediately afterwards. Arthak breathes heavily, “That. Was for Kaylaan.”

He cuts off her other arm. “That. That was for my grandfather.”

He drives his blade right through her, then. “And that… is for what you’ve done to our people.” She’s impaled to the hilt of his blade. Arthak grabs her by the throat, pulls the blade out, forces her to her knees, and takes her head.

Azuka’s head rolls to the ground, body slumping.

There is a moment. A LOT of eyes are wide.

Arthak turns. He looks to Blackhand. “My apologies, Warcheif, whatever else she was, Bladefury would have been valuable for the war effort. I suppose you’re going to have to settle for me.” Gul’dan’s face is wide-eyed. He grits his teeth. As he finished saying that, the Orcs in the crowd begin to cheer and roar. As the band looks around, their arms are raised to the sky, chanting Arthak’s name, the name of the Broken Blade, and for the Horde.

Arthak, who is going for Kaylaan, instead gets hoisted up into the air. Spinyl goads people on.

Arthak and Remnii make eye contact, she’s got this. He oozes concern and tries to make his way to Kaylaan. He fails.

Kaylaan regains consciousness and looks at his now missing less arm. He curses in draenic.

Remnii: “You almost got yourself killed, you fool. But you are alive, and so is he.”

Kaylaan: “Technically, if I want, I can blame you for this. You told me to look out for him.”

Remnii: “I told you to look out for the Legion, you idiot.”

Kaylaan points at Azuka. “I think she counts.”

Remnii blinks. “Am I actually going to argue with you? Look. Just wave at him please if you’re going to be difficult.”

Remnii gestures at Arthak, who is still looking back, and Kaylaan waves weakly. Arthak looks visibly relieved.

Azgadaan and Sorak are watching Gul’dan. Sorak is able to detect that he is using some sort of divination magic. Gul’dan scowls, but then the look turns into a grin. As he does, he opens his eyes, and Blackhand holds out a hand to silence the crowd.

Blackhand: “Congratulations, Arthak. Though untraditional, you won the challenge against the Burning Blade. You have since put an end to a story that began a decade ago. You have much to do now, Arthak. As chieftain of the Broken Blade, it is your responsibility to represent the Horde as such. Your presence will be required. After all, it would not do to have our newest chieftain not present at a most critical war meeting.”

Gul’dan: “Most critical indeed. Congratulations, Arthak. You can now help welcome our newest guest.”

The orcs set Arthak down.

Gul’dan: “In fact, I believe she’s here now.”

The sky darkens, and there is a crackle of energy. High in the sky, a rift opens. Fel energy tears the sky open, and a massive steel monolith emerges through the portal.

It’s a Legion flagship.

The Horde turns to look at the hulking behemoth with a proper amount of awe and uncertainty. Magic coalesces again, and another portal appears. From it appears a massive hulk of fel iron, that launches itself into the outside area of the Hellfire Citadel.

As it lands, part of the metal begins to move. Slowly but surely it distends itself into a ramp. As the ramp lowers, three female figures step from the darkness.

At the front is an eredar woman. She wears immaculate silver robes. Her skin is white, and she has red eyes that glance around at the Horde.

Azgadaan knows her. Her reputation proceeds her. She is a pretty prolific eredar lady who, in her time, surpassed Jaraxxus quite rapidly. She is one of the highest ranking eredar sorceresses working under Archimonde. She is known as the White Tyrant, and her name is Shaspira.

Flanking her to her left is another eredar. Judging from her appearance, she is likely related.

Her black flowing dress seems to shimmer in the shadows.

To her right is a succubus, that matches the description of someone that would be called the Queen of Bones.

Gul’dan waves his hand and disappears, then reappears near the three women. Gul’dan bows deeply. Shaspira holds up a hand.

Shaspira: “There’s no need for that, and I have no interest in talking to you right now, Gul’dan.”

Her eyes go to the naaru, and she steps past Gul’dan. She approaches Arthak’s group.

Shaspira: “I believe it’s a safe assumption that you are the ones responsible for bringing this creature into our custody, as well as making this… interesting scene.”

Arthak steps forward. “You would be correct.”

Shaspira: “Tis a shame them. It seems I was a bit late. I would have enjoyed… experiencing whatever ceremony I happened to miss. A thousand apologies.” She bows to Arthak. “So, what is the situation here, Blackhand. That’s you, correct?”

She looks at Blackhand.

Blackhand: “My lady, you would be correct. This is Arthak Saurfang, and he has just formed a new clan and will be attending your first meeting here on Draenor.”

Shaspira: “Excellent.”

She looks at the naaru, and she makes a gesture. The naaru vanishes.

Shaspira: “Fear not, I will ensure that your prize will be brought where he needs to. He will be safe upon the Vitiator.”

The succubus definitely noticed Spinyl. Shaspira turns to look to the Queen of Bones.

Shaspira: “If you would be so kind to ensure our guest makes it to the destination.”

Queen of Bones: “Yes, my lady.”

She runs forward, kicks off of the cylinder, and her boney wings fill with fel energy as she flies up to the ship.

Shaspira: “In that case, Arthak was it? Shaspira. Pleasure to meet you. This is my daughter.”

Aracyra: “My name is Aracyra. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Arthak: “Uhm. Likewise. It’s an honor.”

Arthak gives another bow.

Shaspira: “There is no need for such formalities. It is an equal honor to meet the son - the only son - of Broxigar the Red. Come. I am new to these locales and I could use an escort. I would hate to be late to my own first meeting, after all.”

Arthak: “Ah… of course. Right this way.”

Shaspira looks at the rest. “Pardon my rapid departure, but I trust my daughter will provide you with ample company.”

Shaspira’s eyes pan across all of them, and she offers Azgadaan a look of genuine interest. She’s rather curious to speak with him. She looks at Sorak with some interest as well. He is the only brownskin orc in a sea of greenskins. She offers Spinyl a smile. However, when her gaze reaches Remnii, there is a flash of contempt in her eyes.

She then coasts after Arthak.

Shaspira: “You know… Arthak. Do you mind if I call you that? I wish not to offend you as my escort.”

Arthak: “I’m hard to offend. Arthak is fine.”

Shaspira: “Excellent. From my understanding, the meeting is not for some time. Perhaps we should take a walk. This structure is quite fascinating. A unique blend of architecture of orcish and Legion descent. A marvel of ingenuity, don’t you believe?”

Arthak: “It is quite the feat of construction.”

Shaspira: “I would like to witness more. Besides, I daresay, the other chieftains will forgive me if I get turned around in the process.”

The group loses sight of Arthak and Shaspira.

Aracyra steps forward and offers a deep curtsy. “I apologize my mother will be unable to entertain you. You are all the ones called Arthak’s companions, yes?”

Azgadaan:”Ah, lady Aracyra, good to make your acquaintaince.”

Aracyra: “And yours as well, Prince Azgadaan.”

Azgadaan is surprised she knows his name, but she expresses she knows his reputation, and she had met his father at court previously.

She looks over to Kaylaan.

Aracyra: “Oh dear, I didn’t realize you were tending to someone injured. Can I insist?”

Remnii: “He is stable.”

Aracyra: “Excellent news. Seems we walked into quite the battlefield.”

Azgadaan: “Yes, if it wasn’t for Kaylaan, Arthak would not be here right now.”

Aracyra: “Well that is… most excellent. If you are all busy at the moment I don’t wish to take your time, but I am at a loss for what to do.”

Azgadaan offers to take her on a tour. Aracyra expressed that perhaps it would do to go now so she does not trouble her allies.

Remnii looks at Spinyl, and Spinyl asks if she should come. Aracyra expresses she does not mind. She smiles up at Azgadaan, and he presents his arm.

A gentle blush appears on her stark white cheeks and she takes his arm. “Quite the gentleman.”

Azgadaan: “I do try my best. Shall we be off?”

Spinyl tails after them.