Appearing Characters: Aramar Thorne, Arthak Saurfang, Blaithe, Broxigar Saurfang, Delas Moonfang, Galforr Siegebreaker, Jaraxxus, Kilnar Goldensword, Murky, Nyxxa Murkthorn, Rak'Symma, Sol'chi, Spinyl, Thisalee Crow, Valtrois Leyweaver, Velameestra Windrunner (Simulacrum), Zar'Kaa
December 6th
The group secured a spare meeting room in Black Rook Hold to meet with Galforr about updates in Stormheim. He explained he had just finished reading the reports on what the warband had been up to, and his people had been running reconnaissance in Stormheim.
He explained their forward base was at Stormwatch Landing and they had set up strong fortifications that could fend off most mundane assaults. He then went through and summarized the surrounding areas of Stormheim that had been identified as points of interest, including the roosts of the vrykul dragon riders that rode the storm drakes of the mountains. He also described a number of vrykul factions, as well as a believed gateway to where the gods of the vrykul supposedly resided. Arthak mused if they sought to speak with Odyn, that was likely the place to go, but Galforr said their attempts to reach out to the vrykul had resulted in little more than thinly veiled threats.
It seemed the Legion had also set up a forward operating base, and there was reason to believe they had been in contact. It also seemed that the new god-king, Skovald of the Tideskorn, had ascended around the same time Gul’dan arrived, so it was reasonable to believe Gul’dan had helped him unseat the old ruler.
It also seemed Skovald was seeking something of great power, though Galforr’s sources had been vague. Arthak asked what his source was, and Galforr said it was a wandering vrykul elder. His name was Havi, and he had mastered the orcish tongue quickly. He had appeared at the gates of Stormwatch and claimed he belonged to no clan. However, he had seemed curious to meet Arthak based on the stories he had heard, and he had sent something for Arthak specifically.
Galforr withdrew a small scroll and handed it over to Arthak. As Arthak looked at the scroll, glittering runes started to appear. They shifted and moved, and he didn’t understand them, but a voice echoed in his mind:
“Strength alone will not win you what you seek. But I can get you started. Seek me out and I can show you how to put your strength to the test.”
Galforr said Havi had been staying at Stormwatch Landing for the time being. He also explained he was always in the company of animal companions, namely two black-feathered birds.
Zar’Kaa suggested they confirm what their primary objectives in Stormheim would be, and Sol said that ensuring Skovald didn’t get what he was looking for was probably wise, as is sorting out what Havi wanted.
Galforr also said they had learned some information about what the Legion and Gul’dan had been doing based on what Mork and Mindi had discovered. Recently Skovald had been seen alongside some other individuals: Velhari, Caria Felsoul, Iskar, Jubei’thos, and an unknown elvish assailant.
Arthak asked what kind of elf they were, and Galforr said they appeared to be a high elf, not a felblood elf. Nyxxa suggested it could be Varedis, but Galforr himself had not seen him. Regardless, it seemed that the group was helping Skovald search for whatever Skovald sought to claim.
The group also recalled there was a vrykul member of the Unseen Path named Hilare that was stationed in Stormheim and had yet to respond to any calls to return.
Galforr explained the Horde could provide support to Shal’aran and continue to apply pressure against Legion forces. They would be prepared for the movements they had to make in Suramar, and they had already started to speak with the Highmountain nations. However, he did wish to know what they had decided to do with the Tidestone.
Arthak admitted there had been differences of opinion, and he did not believe there was a unified course of action. He explained the two main options they were discussing.
Galforr Siegebreaker says: I would hate to bring this up… but if Azshara’s reach is as far as it is claimed, I would remind you it is our hope to bring the entirety of the Horde across the sea. If we are to make an enemy of someone that can influence the entire ocean… we would have to traverse through enemy territory. It seems for as much of a boon the Tidestone would be… it would be a boon bought in blood.
Arthak replied that was the same cost if they could not deflect the blame from destroying it. There was some discussion of the pros and cons of the matter, but the group appeared to still be largely undecided.
Rak’Symma had sought out Velameestra as she had decided she was ready to speak with Blaithe’s spirit in hopes of finding answers. They had ascended to the peak of Black Rook Hold with Rak’Symma’s companions so that they were allowed some privacy.
Vel had informed Symma that she would effectively be learning the spell at the same time, as it was a good opportunity for her first casting to be Blaithe, and the simulacrum opened up her spellbook and rested it on the ground a few feet away from the skull of the great raven that would be used as the anchor.
The simulacrum then began to recite the incantation of the ritual, choosing to use a slower casting that Symma could follow, and also folding her pinky into her palm so that the harpy didn’t need to try and make sense of applying the gestures of four fingers to her own three talons.
They had grasped hands so that their magics channeled together, and the color of their surroundings washed out into gray as the barrier between the realms of the living and the dead were thinned, and the air itself almost seemed to faintly ripple as if they were surrounded by a translucent Veil. As Vel called out the final steps of the incantation, she looked to Rak’Symma to indicate it was her place to call to Blaithe and guide him to her.
Rak'Symma says: I’m here, my heart, wake up from sleep. Do not fear, do not weep. I am your north star and guiding light, fear not the darkness, fear not the night.
As the magic started to spin from their hands, taking Vel’s incantations and fueling it with Symma’s own heart and soul, she felt the wind start to whip with a cool mist, yet it was warm on their skin. The skull that had been lain in the center of the ritual space was awash with magic, and the skull started to glow with a soft light.
Almost as if emerging from the skull, as if the great raven was sleeping, his head formed right where the skull had laid, and then the entire form of a great raven manifested. It was a massive spectral form, and it opened its great eyes. Blaithe slowly shifted and stood, and he stretched his great wings out to the sky.
Blaithe says: My inspiration… my brave little spark. I was having the most wonderful dream. But this… this is a dream yet more wondrous still.
Blaithe released a crooning call, and he lowered his beak to brush against Symma. Her talons cradled his beak and she tried to embrace him. It was like embracing mist made solid. There was give, but it was only just. A physicality that was fleeting and impermanent.
Rak’Symma sobbed for a moment as she pressed her brow against his beak and made a menagerie of soft croons and chirps.
Blaithe says: By what enchantment have thy called me here?
With a sniffle, Rak’Symma took a step back and looked at Vel.
Rak'Symma says: A very powerful mage taught me how to reach you.
Blaithe expressed his gratitude to Vel, who nodded in acknowledgement as she had stepped back to give them their space. The great raven returned his focus to Rak’Symma to apologize for leaving her alone, but then his eyes turned to those who were watching.
Blaithe says: Yet it seems I have not left you alone.
Rak'Symma says: You know as well as I that I would have never made it on my own. These are my friends. They helped me to end the Crawliac’s reign.
Blaithe says: Then you too all have earned my eternal gratitude. I am Blaithe. I have been known as many things. Beloved of the Mother of the Sky. Keeper of Mysteries. Enigma of the Skies. But most importantly of all of those things, I am he who was blessed to be the guardian of thy traveling companion.
He looked back to Rak’Symma.
Blaithe says: Thank you, one and all, for being the air beneath her wings when I could not.
Rak'Symma says: For just a little while, I need you to not be a lord of mysteries.
Blaithe says: For what fleeting time we have, my heart shall be own. Secrets I wished to entrust to you when the time was right… though the chance was robbed from me, now I may demystify. Tell me, my beloved Rak’Symma, what weighs upon thy heart so that I might lift thee of some of thy burdens?
Rak’Symma ran a hand down his beak.
Rak'Symma says: Other than what I already know… who did you hope I would be?
There was a sadness that came across the great raven’s eyes.
Blaithe says: That… is a question, one as deep and complex as the histories that write this world.
Rak'Symma says: I have seen many of the mysteries and histories that have shaped this world, Blaithe…
Blaithe says: Then you know.
Rak'Symma says: I know what I have seen.
Blaithe says: When first I discovered thine egg… I knew not what awaited me. I had hoped, perhaps, that a journey long since begun had finally come to an end. That thou who hast emerged would return to me a part of my own soul that was taken so long ago. But when thou first emerged from thy blessed shell, I realized I was wrong. As I watched you grow, I knew that what you were becoming was not simply a piece of my soul, but something far greater. Thou mayest carry her spark, Rak’Symma… but you have become something beyond anything I could have expected. So to answer your question, what I hoped you would become?
He nuzzled his beak against her.
Blaithe says: The soul I see before me. Nothing more and nothing less.
Rak'Symma says: It’s been confusing since you left… I was searching for answers and given those for questions I didn’t even ask. I let the Crawliac’s madness go, but more than once I’ve been confused for Proxcera. But that isn’t the case either, is it?
Blaithe says: I cannot say for certain… but Proxcera…
A fondness passed his eyes.
Blaithe says: She was the first. Though Aviana pioneered the visage you and all your people bear, she was the first. She and her first sisters benefited from a great life. Long. Like Aviana and I and all her companions. But when the world trembled and shattered and my soul was rent in twain, it was she who mustered the courage, who woke me from my doldrums in search of an answer and a solution. She brought me to the Mother Tree as it withered and died, and presented her plan. I know not where she discovered it. Thou she was not my child by blood, she was in spirit, for she was one of the few whose mysteries could go deeper than mine own eyes could peer. She could not hope to be what her mother was. But freely did she give her longevity to the great tree. A sacrifice in hopes of giving it the time it needed for her scheme to fall into fruition. She cast aside her long life, choosing instead to die like her sisters. But… her death did not last. Ever was there another. When one Proxcera fell, another rose to take her place. Her memories, her spirit, persisted from generation to generation. She aligned her actions and way of life with that of her mother, hoping to quicken Aviana’s spirit, hoping to draw it from the place where i now slumber. But as the years grew long, her hope began to fade. Her spirit began to harden. But never did she lose hope. Always did she believe that by her actions she would one day call her mother back from beyond the veil. And in that day, her spirit could finally rest. When her most recent life was cut short, she had yet to create a successor. She had yet to pass on her mission and her memories. And yet as I slumbered, bearing her corpse away from where it had fallen, I awoke to find you. And she was nowhere to be found. It was clear to me you were not Proxcera reborn. You shared her face, yet not her memories. You were something else. You are something else.
Rak'Symma says: Why didn’t you tell anyone?
Blaithe says: It was upon her request. It was a solemn journey we undertook. One that, should others learned, it may have put them at risk. Even my beloved sister. Indeed, the dangers lied evident with the High Crawliac’s obsession. I can only assume she discovered what Proxcera sought to accomplish, and with one display, she had nearly unraveled millenia of progress.
Rak'Symma says: I spoke to the druids and gained Aviana’s memories. I witnessed everything. Everything except the end.
Blaithe says: What was the last thing you bore witness to?
Rak’Symma explained she had seen the dreadlord grab Aviana.
Blaithe says: Then you did not bear witness to the weight I had to carry. The fiend Infazzar… who took her life. He attempted to take more than just that. Before I could reach, he was subsumed by a great cataclysm of lightning and storm. When the clouds cleared, aught remained but my beloved. But I knew Aviana like I know every feather on my wing. And the beast that writhed in her shadow could not deceive me. So I was forced to lay her low. To expunge the creature that would see her talons bring ruin to our home. To free my beloved from his dark clutches. Though I banished the demon back to his dark realm, know I that he would return one day. Another fear clouded my judgment.
Rak'Symma says: He’s already here, Blaithe.
Blaithe says: …I see. Then yet another sorrow, for I cannot lend you my strength to banish him once more. With his dying breath, he swore he would claim what was rightfully his. That he would have you, and I would suffer. That he would end me for what I had taken from him. So long has my vigil been. Watching. Waiting for his prophesied return. Once my suspicions to your nature had proven true, I… had to make sure he would not find you until you were ready. Long have I scoured the land for signs of him, but he is cunning. I’m sorry for not having found him.
Rak'Symma says: He took the stone from the idol. What exactly can he do with that?
Blaithe says: The spiritstone left with the idol of Aviana is a font of power. One that was given by Proxcera herself. A coelescence of Aviana’s strength in hopes that when the time came, when her long journey reached its end, that the triumphant spirit would reclaim what was rightfully her’s. That he has gathered it… could spell ill. Only she, only you, could truly unlock its potential. But even if only for a time Infazzar walked within my beloved’s flesh… as I said, he is a cunning fiend. If he could tap even a fraction of that strength… much could be at stake. I know not the extent of his strength, but if he has spent the last millennia preparing, then I fear he may seek to undo everything that Aviana represented. Much could be in danger, least of all G’Hanir itself. If he could attune his essence to it, the Dream could bend to his claw. But I don’t know if he could accomplish such a feat. But you… you could, and he could were he to have access to thine power. He will seek to contest with you the soul of your people and this world. You must rise above it.
Rak'Symma says: I’ve been doing that since before I knew he existed. I won’t stop now.
Blaithe says: That is my Rak’Symma.
They decided to ask Blaithe for ideas to hide the Tidestone and convince people it was destroyed after they gave him context.
Blaithe says: The mad queen of the old empire was contested in strength only by her pride… she was prepared to sacrifice the world, yet her strength was enough to prevent her city from drowning. The city at the heart of her destructive curse was doomed not by her hand, but by a thought. The ancient relic you speak of is something that even ten millennia ago she could sense and interact with over great distances. To deceive one capable of doing such a feat would not be something even I would have attempted, and that was ten thousand years ago. A charade of its destruction is unlikely to to trick someone who could rend such an artifact into pieces with a thought. Thine only hope is to sequester it, but sequestration can only work so long as one could truly hide and protect it. One crack is all it takes. But should she connect that thou and thine companions have hidden it away… her wrath will likely be unending. Deception, as to its nature, may be difficult. As to its fate, that is another story.
Rak’Symma asked about Stormheim, as she had never gotten the chance to go but now their path was taking them there. Blaithe explained the storm drakes served the giants, and while they shared similarities in origin to the dragons, their word was different from the Aspects. Blaithe was not an adept in the differences, but he knew they were not affiliated with each other.
However, the gods of the giants were beings of great power. The one in the hallowed halls at Stormheim had a connection with the being that once rescued Aviana. He had never met him in the flesh, but he knew some that had. He had two ancient kin that had long ago flown to the east. They had befriended an old wandered. He told them to seek Huginn and Muninn, as those were the names they had been given. They perhaps could offer them insight, even if they could just as easily be a hindrance.
Blaithe crooned.
Blaithe says: Especially should you make company with those who once called this place home. But I feel the call of slumber drawing me back across the veil. But Rak’Symma, I want you to know, thou hast flown to a height I could never dream you’d reach. And I am sorry for leaving you in the dark, and alone for so long. If I had known my time was going to be at the end, I would have told you so much more. I would have showed you the beauty of the world she sought to protect. But I could not do even that. You must think me a poor guardian.
Rak'Symma says: I could never think that. You were and would always be everything to me.
Blaithe says: Then this I shall make my solemn vow. When one day my dreams come to an end, and my wings take to the sky, I will find you. This I promise. For our souls are and always have been two parts of the same whole. Since the moment I saw you. Since the moment I saw her. Fly true my inspiration, and know that my wings will always be beneath you.
As his image faded, he sang the same lullaby that he had sung to Rak’Symma so long ago. Slowly but surely, his image dissipated into a thousand sparks that faded into the night.
Thisalee put a hand on Rak’Symma’s shoulder in comfort.
As Zar’Kaa was making preparations back at the Hold, while he was on his way from one location to another, he saw Velameestra approach him. She greeted him, and they exchanged pleasantries.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was wondering if you wished to have that conversation you asked about. Or if I should continue waiting with bated breath.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. While I occasionally like to leave people in suspense… I suppose now would be a good time. Care to sit?
He gestured to the edge of a garden nearby, and Vel nodded and sat down. Zar’Kaa settled down as well and pulled out a whetstone to work on sharpening his spear as he gathered his thoughts. Vel sat patiently with her legs loosely crossed over each other.
Zar'Kaa says: I’ve thought for a while about what I said to you when I came to these isles. What I said to you back in my home. I never really reflected on what it was about you that made me so angry and so bitter.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Beyond being undead?
Zar'Kaa says: That’s… part of it. As you know, I have no love for your kind.
Velameestra Windrunner says: You made that quite clear.
Zar’Kaa nodded.
Zar'Kaa says: But I don’t need to tell you that. Most undead are not… like you. They don’t possess the same amount of who they were in life. Much is left behind when one departs this world for the next.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Mm. Yes and no… but the semantics of that aside.
Zar'Kaa says: The point is, I think what I couldn’t accept was that an undead could be more respected by my people than I am. To be held in a higher regard than I am. Recently, I noticed a pattern. How I am with everyone. Be it allies, past allies, friends… I, for a long time, the only thing I’ve been good at is hurting people. That’s all I had to be good at. I won’t get into why or what led to that, but… I finally started to realize that’s not who I want to be, and I’ve been trying to not let everyone around me be pulled into my storm. As I’ve done with some of the others already, I want to say what I should have said before. I am sorry for how I acted. I am sorry for all that I said.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Apology accepted.
Zar’Kaa nodded.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Though if you wouldn’t mind me countering one of your assessments?
Zar'Kaa says: By all means.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Saying I was more respected amongst your people than yourself is… a falsity, I believe. If you did not have the respect of your people, I doubt Rokhan would have sent you to Zandalar with us.
Zar’Kaa looked like there was something on the tip of his tongue he wanted to say, but he simply shook his head.
Zar'Kaa says: Lets just say you don’t know my people as well as I do.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Perhaps not. Though I will say… solely looking for evidence that proves a statement is always going to result in finding it, rather than the truth of reality.
Zar'Kaa says: Trust me, I have both of my feet firmly planted in reality. I wouldn’t be reflecting on what a terrible person I’ve become if I wasn’t ready to face that reality.
Velameestra Windrunner says: We are always our own worst critics. Perhaps you should ask Zuni about that opinion.
Zar'Kaa says: Zuni could take the worst of the Legion and find some semblance of good in them. That’s one of the great things about him. But I know what I am. And we can’t fight our nature. But, my problems are not yours, Velameestra. I don’t say any of this because I want you or anyone else to take on my burdens. They are mine to bear.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Indeed.
Zar'Kaa says: What I do want… perhaps, is for one, to understand. I have my own history with undead. I’ve been accustomed to only thinking of them as one thing. Monsters. No offense.
Velameestra Windrunner says: None taken.
Zar'Kaa says: But between you, between master Bru’kan… well, maybe I just don’t know everything, it turns out.
Velameestra Windrunner says: One of the simplest steps to understanding… a question for you, Zar’Kaa. Are the trolls a monolith?
Zar'Kaa says: Of course not.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Neither are undead. We are as varied as the Zandali tribes.
Zar'Kaa says: I suppose I’ll need to continue learning then… so I can treat them with as much dignity as I offer the living.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Appreciated.
Zar'Kaa says: You don’t need to thank me. The other part of this, I’ve been working on for a while. If it goes the way I’ve been intending it to… it could help you and your own.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I imagine this is about the Red Mist?
Zar’Kaa nodded.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was wondering when you were going to actually speak to us about that.
Zar'Kaa says: I had to be sure of what I was working with. If it would even go anywhere. It was just a curiosity at first, and… then it started to trend in a direction I believe I could do something with it.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I would suggest you speak with Kilnar and the members of the Reliquary about such matters. Lady Murkthorn has kept me informed of your findings… and a lot of them ultimately tread upon ground we have already passed.
Zar'Kaa says: Hm…
Velameestra Windrunner says: It may be enlightening to speak with the people that were directly affected. Beyond Shinfel, that is. Which don’t get me wrong, Shinfel is a dear, but she is… an outlier.
Zar'Kaa says: I was going to say smitten, but yeah, those things too.
Velameestra Windrunner says: To… parrot your words back, the affliction of the Red Mist is our burden to bear. It might be worth checking if they want you to shoulder it.
Zar'Kaa says: Also a fair point. This wasn’t about hiding anything, mind you, just not moving forward until the time was right.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Hmph. The funny thing about waiting for the right moment, is that it gives people ample time to come to their own assumptions about intent. The longer you wait, the more likely people assume you were doing so for your own means.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay, your lecture aside, I’ll make time to speak with your leader when I’m able to.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I was simply speaking on a phenomenon I am… familiar with. But thank you for the apology, Zar’Kaa. Regardless of if you believe I should thank you or not.
Zar’Kaa looked sad or remorseful as he was sharpening his spear.
Zar'Kaa says: I’ll offer you one back. I never thanked you for helping us with Zalazane… and from what I could tell, not that it’s any of my business, you had more of a bone to pick with him than I did.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Zalazane was a monster. That remains true. But I’ll leave you to your preparations. I recall you said you don’t need luck… but good hunting.
Zar'Kaa says: Thanks. And I don’t know if you need to rest, but if you do, rest well.
Vel smirked as she rose from her seat.
Velameestra Windrunner says: I sleep like the dead nowadays.
Zar'Kaa says: Learn something new every day.
Vel nodded to him as she walked away. Zar’Kaa got the sense that Bru’kan was proud of him and he approved of the conversation.
Arthak had happened to see Kilnar as she was talking with Valtrois, and as he approached, he noticed Spinyl also approached to talk to the same woman.
They sat in awkward silence before tense greetings were exchanged. Arthak lit a cigar, and then sighed.
Arthak Saurfang says: So. How is he?
Spinyl says: How is who, warchief?
Arthak Saurfang says: …Kaylaan.
Spinyl says: You know… it’s incredibly unsightly how you return to the bridges you burn.
Arthak was silent for a long moment.
Arthak Saurfang says: Should I take that to mean well?
Spinyl says: He’s alive. But I don’t think he would want me talking more than I have.
Arthak Saurfang says: I can respect that. I am glad then.
Spinyl bit her lip, holding back her impulse to say something in retort.
Arthak Saurfang says: The real Glaasha is here by the way. You should say hi.
Spinyl says: Oh good. I don’t know if we’ve ever been introduced.
Arthak Saurfang says: I could arrange it.
Spinyl says: I’ll pass. That’s on me for assuming it wasn’t a more common name.
Arthak Saurfang says: Glaasha of the Warsong Clan. Mork’s mate, in fact.
Spinyl says: Good for him!
Arthak Saurfang says: Very good for him.
Spinyl says: I hope he’s doing well.
Arthak Saurfang says: Last I heard, yes. He’s in the field at the moment.
Spinyl says: Oh. I wonder how that’s going…
Arthak Saurfang says: An effective operative, as it happens.
Spinyl says: I wouldn’t take him for one, but I suppose that’s the point. Mindi is going to kill you if anything happens to him.
Arthak Saurfang says: I sent Mindi along to ensure that doesn’t happen.
Spinyl says: You haven’t changed much, have you?
Arthak Saurfang says: If I had, would you even notice or care?
Spinyl says: I don’t think I would.
Arthak Saurfang says: I can appreciate the honesty.
Spinyl says: I am sorry for what I said to Sadras. Not anything else though.
Arthak Saurfang says: You should be. And that is not an apology you owe to me.
Spinyl says: She did not deserve to get dragged into my contempt for you.
Arthak Saurfang says: No.
Kilnar looked over at them. Kilnar folded her arms and regarded Arthak.
Kilnar Goldensword says: Oh. It seems I have a queue. Warchief?
Spinyl waved them off.
Spinyl says: By all means, don’t worry about me.
Arthak Saurfang says: I won’t.
Kilnar looked at Arthak.
Kilnar Goldensword says: How may I help you, warchief?
Arthak said he had something for her this time, namely information.
Kilnar Goldensword says: I’m all ears.
Arthak Saurfang says: I felt you should be made aware that before Gul’dan’s faction was ousted from Silvermoon, a number of nathrezim moved through the city.
Kilnar Goldensword says: Delightful.
Arthak Saurfang says: There are three of them that we saw ourselves confirmed. They made it out of the city. Detheroc, Varimathras, and Balnazzar.
Kilnar clearly made mental notes of the names.
Arthak Saurfang says: There was also Mal’Ganis, but I was told that one was dealt with for the time being.
Kilnar Goldensword says: So it seems. Any idea of where these renegade dreadlords may have gone off to?
Arthak Saurfang says: Large world, and the Legion is expansive, but Mal’Ganis was compromised seeking Frostmourne. Since he failed I would be surprised if the Legion would simply let that be. Considerable resources were expended to make that sword and maneuver it where they wanted it. I imagine at least one would be seeking a place amongst your people.
Kilnar Goldensword says: Is this proven, or conjecture?
Arthak Saurfang says: Conjecture, but you asked for my thoughts. I don’t imagine the Legion will abandon Frostmourne.
Kilnar Goldensword says: We’ll be sure to check around, as it were. I believe if there was one amongst our number here, they would be detected. But if one of them has tried to infiltrate our people, then we will handle it. I hope you would make the same precaution?
Arthak Saurfang says: As much as one can.
Kilnar Goldensword says: Of course. Dreadlords are insidiously cunning. I appreciate your warning, warchief. I’ll keep an eye out. And if I were to discover anything while we are on the same side, I’ll make sure you are warned.
Arthak Saurfang says: That would be appreciated. Ultimately anything the nathrezim would want to do is against both our best interests.
Kilnar Goldensword says: Certainly. Warchief.
Arthak Saurfang says: Magistrix.
They parted ways.
Nyxxa found Murky with Vel and Aramar. Murky saw her and eagerly ran over to her with a happy greeting.
He said he had been learning so many things, and Nyxxa told him she would love to hear about it, but first she needed to talk to him.
They walked together toward the beach, and Nyxxa held his hand.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: We’ve also been learning many things… and I have learned of a way that can save a lot of people. But to do so I need to go away.
Murky says: Where are you going? Can Murky come?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: No… no. It’s… I will be dying. Do you know what that means?
Murky says: Oh… Murky knows. It’s what happens when a big fish gets you. Or when bad people hit you with things.
Nyxxa nodded.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: But I’ve also learned that when someone dies they go far, far, far away. To a place unreachable.
Murky says: Even if you swim really good?
Nyxxa nodded.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I will be gone, but I’ll be around in some way. I’ll be watching you, even if you can’t see me.
Murky says: Wow… mama has really good eyes if you can see me from far away! Is it big scary fish?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: It is. I suppose you could say it’s one of the scariest fish in the sea.
Murky says: But mama will fight it and save people!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: And I’m going to make sure people will look after you. I’ve met more of my family if you’d like to meet them.
Murky says: Really? Murky never met family. Murky parents… they no die. They left. But if mama fights big fish, and saves people, then Murky will be happy. Because mama is a hero! Murky wants to be a hero too.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Just promise me one thing.
Murky says: Hm?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: That you’ll live a long life. While you haven’t known me very long, I’m very very old. Live a long life first, okay?
Murky nodded.
Murky says: Murky will live to see more years than he can count on flippers!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Good. You are your murloc parents’ loss because you are mine now, and my family is your family.
Nyxxa scooped Murky up and Murky promised his eyes will get really good so he could see Nyxxa too. Nyxxa chuckled and said that one way or another they would see each other.
Murky says: Yes yes! Vel talk to dead people all the time, maybe Murky talk to mama!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: You need to talk to Vel about that first.
Murky says: Yes! But Murky want to meet mama’s family!
Nyxxa said she would introduce him, and he pulled out a pearl. He said he had found a clam and when he ate it he found a pretty rock. Nyxxa said it was very lucky that Murky found a pearl, and Murky gave Nyxxa the pearl and told her to take the luck so she could maybe beat the big fish.
Later on, Nyxxa was preparing to leave with Delas and Rak’Symma found her. She explained that she had heard she was going to the Temple of Ashamane, and she wished for a favor.
She withdrew one of her own feathers and handed it to Nyxxa then asked if she could leave it at the temple. Nyxxa asked if she wanted to leave it herself, but Symma said that her travels weren’t taking her to the temple, but she had said a prayer over the feather.
Unbeknownst to Nyxxa, the prayer was: “You fought hard, with fang and claw. The rest has been well deserved. Know that when you wake, anew, you have your sister's love, reserved.”
Symma expressed she thought Nyxxa would have liked Ashamane, and if she would like, she offered to tell Nyxxa about Ashamane when she got back.
That night, Sol changed his form to that of Azgadaan and opted to cast [Dream], targeting his father, Jaraxxus. The black sand beach scaled out around him with waves crashing upon it. Large metal structures jutted out from the sea, perhaps Legion constructs that had crashed amongst the waves.
Behind the beach on a hill was a dark, black mansion that was well-lit on the inside, but slightly hanging off the cliff. Overhead, Argus loomed.
He waited for a long time. But then he heard a voice from behind him.
Jaraxxus says: I can’t tell if you are incredibly bold, or incredibly foolish, for reaching out to me like this.
Sol looked behind him and saw Jaraxxus. He stood several paces away, his tendrils clasped in black. He wore a simple robe that was belted and draped over his legs. He stepped forward.
Jaraxxus says: You’re a hard man to find, Azgadaan.
Sol'chi says: Well. That just means I’m good at what I try to do, father. You look healthy. It’s been some time.
Jaraxxus stepped next to him and looked out over the sea.
Jaraxxus says: So why have you called me here? Are you hoping to convince me to stand down? To betray the Legion like you have? Or are you trying to hold me hostage here? Is this some sort of attempt to make a war of attrition. Show me visions from our past in a hope to whittle away at my willpower?
Sol'chi says: Honestly? I love you, and I hate you, and I missed you. I just wanted some time. Then maybe we could talk about what’s been happening.
Jaraxxus says: You know it’s not too late.
Sol'chi says: Probably not. But I’m happy. I wasn’t happy with the Legion. Going back… I’m happy now with what I’m doing. I could never go back.
Jaraxxus says: This is happiness?
Jaraxxus turned to him.
Jaraxxus says: Running away from your family is happiness? Turning your back on everything I’ve built for you is happiness?
Sol'chi says: I’ve been able to build my life and I’m happy with what I have… after my happiness disappeared many years ago. Father… are you happy?
For a moment, Sol saw the question disarmed Jaraxxus. He looked away.
Jaraxxus says: What kind of question is that?
Sol'chi says: A simple one. Are you happy with where you are and what you’ve done? What you’ve done in the name of the Legion? Are you happy?
Jaraxxus says: I… have done great things for the Legion, Azgadaan. I have helped to build countless works that would bring mortals to their knees. I have helped train legions of magi, eredar and others alike. Forging them into soldiers that have spread to every corner of the Great Dark Beyond. I have spread Archimonde’s teachings, and I have lived with them in my heart. And I have been rewarded for it! I have respect, strength, power, a foundation.
Sol'chi says: But does it make you happy? I miss you. Ever since that day… I have missed you.
Sol had started to cry.
Jaraxxus says: What is happiness? Happiness will do nothing for you boy. It will buy you nothing! Look what it got your mother? Do you think I took joy in taking her life? Do you think I’ve been entertained chasing the only thing she left me?
Sol'chi says: What’s the point if we aren’t happy, father!?
He grabbed his father’s shoulders.
Sol'chi says: Are you happy? Is it all worthwhile?
Jaraxxus pulled away from Sol’s hands and turned his back to his son. He felt a ripple through the dream and shattered a rock.
Jaraxxus says: Of course I’m not! My happiness died the same day! By my own damnable hands! Joy has only bought me wages of despair. Joy has done nothing but take from our family! It took your mother, and now it threatens to take you from me too!
Sol'chi says: Father. Joy was our family! It is our family. Without it, our family is nothing. I’m pursuing joy because I want to feel loved again and to love people in turn. I can’t do that with the Legion. I want you to be happy again. But I can see in your face what you’ve done…
Jaraxxus’s muscles tensed, and his shoulders deflated. He sighed heavily.
Jaraxxus says: You always have been stubborn, boy.
Sol'chi says: Our family has been.
Jaraxxus chuffed.
Sol'chi says: I think that’s something I got from both of you.
Jaraxxus says: If you want… if you would… if you would see us try to piece some semblance of our family back together… I… come to Faronaar. I will send word to my most trusted guards. Come back to me, Azgadaan. Come back and maybe we can find something. I can speak with the voices that matter, make sure everything disappears. Questions. Concerns. By Sargeras’s burning beard, if you want to strike me in the face, you can do so as many times as you wish, but I can’t do anything for you as you are. I have done everything to help our family. I’ve built all of this for her and now you. Don’t make me destroy you too.
Sol'chi says: Like I said, father, my happiness can’t lie with the Legion. I need to tear down what the Legion is. Make it something better… besides, I’m never going to work with the man that ordered my mother dead. And the cheering crowds as they watched you cast her from the dais. I will not forget them, I will not work with them, and I will destroy them if I must. I love you… and I think you could find happiness again, but do you really think you can find it with the Legion? Because I don’t think you can. You never came back to the manor since that day. You focused on work. I never heard that happy tune… I miss the man that raised me. Find it again, please. But I will fight and rail against the Legion until the end. If I can get you away from them, I will, but I can’t deal with them.
Jaraxxus took a deep breath and sighed.
Jaraxxus says: She would be so proud of you…
He turned away.
Jaraxxus says: Should you see reason… there will be a place aboard the Sentinax for you.
Sol'chi says: And if you should see reason, there’s a place with me for you.
Jaraxxus’s hand flexed.
Jaraxxus says: Whatever you do… stay alive, Sol’chi. The eyes that you bear would bode ill should you return to the Nether.
Sol'chi says: I’ve got good people looking out for me.
Jaraxxus walked away.
Sol'chi says: Sweet dreams father. Good night.
The dream faded away, leaving Sol sleeping with tears actively streaming down his face.
December 7th
The following day, Arthak went and found Velameestra after Sol relayed to the group what had happened with his father in the dream. She was bent over a table, having returned to her assembly of a skeleton as more bones had been uncovered during her time away.
Arthak Saurfang says: Lady Windrunner.
Vel looked up at him.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...Master Saurfang?
Arthak Saurfang says: I need help with something. And I need... discretion.
Vel tilted her head, a quizzical expression passing over her face.
Arthak Saurfang says: I would like to speak with someone.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Who would that be?
Arthak Saurfang says: ...Broxigar Saurfang.
Vel looked surprised.
Arthak Saurfang says: Discretion.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Discretion. Lets go somewhere more private then, Master Saurfang.
Arthak Saurfang says: Lets. And thank you.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Two different battlefields. As I said.
Arthak Saurfang says: Still.
They managed to find a secluded chamber far away from the primary hustle and bustle of the Hold, and Vel said she needed something of Broxigar's. Or a depiction of him. Arthak said he could provide a likeness, and as Vel found a place to rest her spellbook, she heard the sound of metal hitting the ground. When she turned around, Arthak was standing shirtless, his body covered with tattoos depicting the deeds of Broxigar Saurfang.
Vel blinked.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...I see.
Arthak Saurfang says: Discretion.
Velameestra Windrunner says: ...I'll cast the spell, and I will leave you.
Arthak Saurfang says: Please not a word.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Not a word.
Vel started the spell, and she transitioned from quietish into orcish as Arthak continued to mutter "why am I doing this?" under his breath behind her. The color washed away from the room.
Velameestra Windrunner says: Broxigar Saurfang... your son would like to speak with you.
As Vel’s magic danced across Arthak’s tattoos, and it almost looks as if they were moving across his skin. The magic moved into a swirl before him, and it started to take shape. An orc manifested. Tall. Broad-shouldered. Strong. He had long hair pulled up into a top knot, and a wild beard.
He opened his eyes as Vel scooped up her spellbook and disappeared.
Broxigar smiled.
Broxigar Saurfang says: So. You must be Arthak.
Arthak Saurfang says: You must be Broxigar.
Broxigar Saurfang says: In the flesh! Well…
Arthak Saurfang says: Not really.
Broxigar chuckled.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I don’t know by what means you called me here.
Arthak Saurfang says: Magic.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah. That makes sense. Well look at you. You grew up strong. No thanks to me.
Arthak Saurfang says: I don’t know what I’m supposed to say to that.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah. I suppose that’s fair.
Arthak was circling Broxigar, almost pacing as he observed the manifestation.
Arthak Saurfang says: So how’s death?
Broxigar Saurfang says: It’s uh… it’s not so bad. You should have seen the other guys..
Arthak Saurfang says: To an extent I have.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I um… I’m glad you got to call me here. Through whatever mysticism you did. Never did understand how magic worked, not until the day I drew my last breath, but… you look like you’ve done pretty well for yourself.
He tapped his eye.
Broxigar Saurfang says: How’d you lose that?
Arthak Saurfang says: I cut it out.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Why the hell would you do something like that?
Arthak Saurfang says: I needed to make a point to Blackhand.
Broxigar Saurfang says: That son of a bitch is still kicking?
Arthak Saurfang says: No. I killed him.
Broxigar Saurfang says: HAH! No shit. Old bastard had it coming.
Arthak Saurfang says: He did.
Broxigar Saurfang says: So what happened after he died? You become the warchief or something?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Broxigar started loudly laughing.
Broxigar Saurfang says: That’s amazing! You any good at it?
Arthak Saurfang says: …I guess.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Well you’re doing a lot better than I ever would have. I’d be a shit warchief, let me tell you. Never was good at leading men. Half the time I just got them killed.
Arthak Saurfang says: You did well here.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah, because they didn’t make me in charge of anything! So this is Azeroth, huh? You actually made your way here? It’s one hell of a place, you know?
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m aware. I… I don’t know what I want to ask you.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah. Yeah that’s fair. I uh… heh. I still don’t know what I should be saying to you either. I didn’t even know you were… I didn’t know about you until…
Arthak Saurfang says: You knew about me at all?
Broxigar Saurfang says: I did. It was the last gift an old friend gave me. Before I made a mountain of demon corpses. She uh… didn’t have the time to explain how she knew. Something about time and something…
Arthak Saurfang says: Right… ten thousand years.
Broxigar Saurfang says: She said that I had a kid. And apparently he was a good one.
Arthak Saurfang says: She tell you anything else?
Broxigar Saurfang says: She didn’t have a lot of time, unfortunately. She learned about you from a friend of her’s I think… it’s confusing. But she said I deserved to know. Let me tell you, when you’re planning about diving into a portal swarming with demons, the last thing you expect to hear is that you have a kid. Less so did I expect the chance to meet him… at least not until you joined me over here.
Arthak Saurfang says: So you didn’t know that I was coming. When you went to see Gul’dan.
Broxigar shook his head.
Broxigar Saurfang says: No. I don’t think Tlanth realized until after she heard the news. That’s what… that’s what she said at least.
Arthak Saurfang says: Have you seen her over there?
Broxigar smiled.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I have. I’ve seen a whole lot of people over here. Some people I knew. Some people I heard about. But I… if I would have known… I don’t know if I would have gone.
Arthak Saurfang says: No… you wouldn’t have.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I can’t say for certain. At the very least, I would have thought about it. But I can’t make excuses. I can’t say for certain if I wouldn’t have done it, because it needed to be done, and maybe I would have convinced myself otherwise. I’d like to say I would have stayed… but that’s a cop out. It’s easy in hindsight. To make those promises. But I don’t think you deserve that.
Arthak Saurfang says: …have you seen Dranosh over there?
Broxigar furrowed his brow.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I didn’t know he died.
Arthak Saurfang says: He did.
Broxigar Saurfang says: It’s a big afterlife. There’s a lot of people.
Arthak Saurfang says: But you haven’t seen him.
Broxigar Saurfang says: No. I haven’t.
Arthak Saurfang says: That confirms something. Okay.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Don’t take my testimony for too much. I’m a single-minded old bastard. It’s uh… just as likely I haven’t found him yet. It’s… there’s a lot of places, you know? Lot of fields. Lot of mountains. Lot of magic things I don’t really get. But… sorry if that wasn’t the answer you were looking for, kid.
Arthak Saurfang says: Arthak.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Arthak. Sorry. How’s uh… how’s Varok holding up?
Arthak Saurfang says: It was hard.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah.
Arthak Saurfang says: But he’s doing better.
Broxigar Saurfang says: You look out for him, if you can.
Arthak Saurfang says: I do.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah…
Arthak Saurfang says: You’re exactly like they said you were.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Is that a good thing or a bad thing?
Arthak Saurfang says: Both.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Heh. Yeah. Guess I set myself up for that one.
Arthak Saurfang says: I… what do you… I still don’t know what to ask you. What do you want to ask me, how about that?
Broxigar Saurfang says: Oh shit. Plenty of things. More than I think we have time for. I… I want to know all about you. What are your favorite foods, what do you like to do, what’s your favorite weapon? Do you have a weapon? I’m sure you do. You killed Blackhand. I haven’t seen him by the way. Sorry. You find anyone yet? What do you… it’s so much. It’s hard to pick. What sorts of things do you enjoy? What do you hate? What’s the best thing you ever killed? What’s the worst defeat you ever felt? What clan are you apart of? Well, if you’re the warchief, you’re every clan. Did you end up with the Blackrock or the Burning Blade…
Arthak Saurfang says: Both. I use a sword.
Broxigar Saurfang says: heh. No shit. It got a name?
Arthak Saurfang says: Varg’osh.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Not bad. Where’d you get it?
Arthak Saurfang says: I made it.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Heh. True Blackrock fashion.
Arthak Saurfang says: With the Doomhammer.
Broxigar Saurfang says: With the Doomhammer? Well fuck!
Arthak Saurfang says: I killed Gruul.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Gruul?! Like THE Gruul? Like the big one-eyed bastard?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yeah.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Holy shit! What the hell else did you kill?
Arthak Saurfang says: Kargath.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Kargath Bladefist!? Heh! I haven’t seen him either. I haven’t seen Orgrim either. How long ago did he die? Did you kill him too?
Arthak Saurfang says: Blackhand did.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Well shit, at least you got vengeance for the old bastard.
Arthak Saurfang says: Bladefury. Dharl’s daughter.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Shit! I don’t think I ever met his kids. You’ve been carving your way through the whole Horde! What about Gul’dan?
Arthak Saurfang says: Working on it.
Broxigar Saurfang says: That’s what I like to hear! Make sure you put an extra swing in for old Broxigar, okay? And make sure he doesn’t send you to another world! Was a damn fun trip but it caused no amount of issues.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m already here.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah, he sure likes sending Saurfangs to Azeroth. So if you’re fighting Gul’dan, you’re doing what I couldn’t pull off, huh?
Arthak Saurfang says: With help.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah. That’s because you’re smart. I can see it in your eye. You’re not some dumbass that runs off to take on Gul’dan and his whole warband of cronies all by himself.
Arthak Saurfang says: No. I… I joined his band of cronies.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Huh. Damn clever. I wouldn’t have had the patience. But patience was never my strong suit.
Arthak Saurfang says: It is mine.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Must have got that from your mother.
Arthak Saurfang says: I… wouldn’t know.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah. Yeah I guess you wouldn’t.
Arthak Saurfang says: I… I did take after Varok.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Then I think you’ll be just fine. Better than fine really.
Arthak Saurfang says: You don’t know if that’s true.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I don’t. But! That’s what I think. That’s what I want to think. And if you’ve heard stories of me, you’ll know once I put my mind to something, he has a hard time changing it. So either I’ll be right, in which case I reserve the right to say I told you so, or I’m wrong, and then maybe you can tell me you told me so. The next time we meet.
Arthak Saurfang says: We’re not… we’re not going to.
Broxigar shrugged.
Broxigar Saurfang says: You don’t know that.
He smirked.
Arthak Saurfang says: I have a pretty good idea.
Broxigar looked down at his hand.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I think the magic is starting to fade. Anything else you want to say? Anything you want me to pass along to anyone?
Arthak Saurfang says: Tell her I’m sorry. And I hope she’s well over there.
Broxigar smiled, and it was clear he wanted to say so many things. That she had already forgiven him and it wasn’t his fault.
Broxigar Saurfang says: I will. And uh… look, I don’t know if this means much to you. But. From what I’ve seen today? From what I’ve heard? You seem like a warchief I’d be proud to follow. I’m sure of it.
Arthak Saurfang says: What have you heard? The ones I’ve killed?
Broxigar Saurfang says: One in particular. A newer arrival. But then again, that old man’s always had a habit for exaggeration. But in this case? I don’t think he has.
Arthak Saurfang says: Look. Okay. I… you should know that I don’t resent… I understand. I… I think you and I have not many things in common, but I understand why you went. I understand why you died. I went through… I have tried to idolize you, I have tried to redeem you, I have tried to hate you… but at this point I just understand. You did your best. Imperfectly. And my success was as imperfect as your own.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah. But there is one big difference. You’re still kicking.
He chuckled.
Arthak Saurfang says: For now.
Broxigar Saurfang says: For now.
Broxigar shrugged.
Broxigar Saurfang says: We both understand what duty means, and we understand what we have to do when something needs done. And more than anything, I think being understood is more than anyone could ask for.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yeah.
Broxigar Saurfang says: Yeah. Lok’tar, warchief.
Arthak Saurfang says: Lok’tar, Broxigar.
Broxigar placed his fist over his heart, and his form dissipated. Before long, the bold face of Broxigar the Red vanished, leaving Arthak alone in the chamber to his thoughts.
