Appearing Characters: Ahune, Arthak Saurfang, Bakaz, Bru'kan, Euryale Vashj, Eurydice, Hooktusk, Naj'tess, Neri Sharpfin, Nyxxa, Okani, Rekki, Rexxar, S'theno Vashj, Sol'chi, Volrath, Yayo'jin, Zar'jira, Zar'Kaa, Zuni
October 27th
As the warband surveyed the battlefield, Sol’chi was able to detect there seemed to be an extraplanar portal forming in the crystal that Zar’jira was channeling her magic into. Nyxxa hopped onto Sol’s summoned elekk, Glacier, as did Zar’Kaa.
Zuni ran forward and hurled three of his javelins at one of the Spitescale naga warriors. One of the frozen skeletons, which was bathed in a thick aura of fog, ran at Euryale Vashj, but she was able to deflect it aside.
Zar’jira raised her hands and energy swirled around the scepter she grasped.
Zar’jira says: I will not allow you to interrupt the ritual!
Ice and frozen winds swirled around her, and a beam of energy erupted from the crystal she had been channeling into. The crystal started to glow more intensely and a blistering cold wind washed through the area. Ice and rime washed over Sol’s familiar, Hooty, and he shattered into ice shards. The naga that Zuni had attacked was also frozen solid.
Sol’chi cast [Fly] on Glacier, and the elephant took off into the air and flew over to the altar. He landed next to the massive stone golem, and Nyxxa immediately leapt off the elekk and whirled into the nearest naga with a flurry of strikes. She then spun around and slammed one of her glaives into the stone golem.
Zar’Kaa also hopped off and hurled his spear at Zar’jira. He teleported to where the spear struck and then whipped around with his axe, but Zar’jira deflected the attack aside.
Zar’jira says: Insolent whelp!
Zar'Kaa says: You should have never come here!
Zar’jira says: And you should have never returned!
Arthak barreled up the stairs at Zar’jira and slammed into her twice with Var’gosh. The group noticed that the blows inflicted on Zar’jira didn’t seem to be as effective as they hoped, but some wounds opened up in the body of her consort, Naj’tess.
Zar’jira slithered backwards and Zar’Kaa clipped into her with his spear. Zar’jira began to crackle with electricity and she slammed a hand into Arthak’s chest as she released a [Chain Lightning] that leaped from Arthak, to Zar’Kaa, and then crackled down to Sol and Nyxxa.
Naj’tess says: Your radiance!
Naj’tess slithered up and took several swings at Nyxxa.
Lightning began to crackle around Euryale Vashj.
Euryale Vashj says: Pathetic.
She also used [Chain Lightning], which leaped around the horde of skeletons and destroyed every one she struck before the final arc slammed in Naj’tess. She then fired two shots from her longbow at the consort, but he deflected the arrows from the sky.
The remaining naga warrior ran at Nyxxa, but she was able to flip over the creature’s harpoon and evade his strikes. One of the frost revenants, meanwhile, chose to focus on Zar’Kaa, and the stone golem groaned and lumbered as it looked at Sol and the elekk. The golem’s body was covered with permafrost, and a chill flowed from it. However, Nyxxa, Sol, and Glacier were all able to shake off the effect, and the golem brought its fist down at Nyxxa, who was able to just narrowly dodge the attack.
What few skeletons remained swarmed Vashj, though she appeared to be largely unbothered by the attacks that landed.
The second frost revenant drove its weapon into Arthak, and Zar’jira turned her gaze on Arthak and tried to petrify him. He could feel the glowing eyes of her snake hair on him, but Arthak was unbothered as he met her gaze, completely unaffected by the petrification effect.
Arthak used his fire rune and fiery chains wrapped around Zar’jira as he struck into her. She was able to break the chains away, and Arthak hefted his grip and then drove Var’gosh into the crystal itself. His eye had never left Zar’jira as he smirked.
Zar’jira shouts: NO!
Cracks began to spider up through the crystal, and the crystal shook and trembled as it started to destabilize. Zar’jira commanded the frost revenants to stop Arthak. Zar’Kaa tried to clip the frost revenant as it floated toward Arthak, and he missed, but the revenant was also not successful in connecting with Arthak who swung into the crystal a second time.
The light began to spark and break.
Zar’jira shouts: IT’S TOO SOON. NO!
Frigid winds burst outward as the crystal shattered, and there was a chill present that was deeper than anything they had ever felt in their entire life. Where the crystal was, they now saw fragments of it strewn around a truly immense, monstrous elemental. A long scythe made of ice was held in one of its clawed hands.
Zar’jira says: Frost lord Ahune, obey my command!
The elemental looked down at Zar’jira with eyes of indiscriminate violence, and the bracers that bound it to the material plane sparked and cracked.
Ahune says [kalimag]: All… will… freeze.
Bru’kan appeared briefly next to Zar’Kaa.
Bru'kan says: That’s a powerful elemental! The summon ritual was incomplete. If you can weaken it, you may be able to destroy its bindings.
Zar’Kaa says: How do we weaken it?
Bru'kan says: Hit it! Weaken it more, and you should be able to cleave its bracers. That should free it from the spell binding it here!
Nyxxa looked up and saw the spectral form of Bru’kan. She was the only other one that could see him.
A gale of icy wind washed across the peak of the temple. It was blindingly cold, and heavy hail and mist obscured the elementals as they moved.
Euryale Vashj says: You really are an absolute fool, aren’t you?
She slithered forward and fired two arrows into Naj’tess before she looked behind her at the skeletons that had all attacked as she left. A blast of lightning crackled through them and wiped them out completely.
Ahune smacked Zar’jira with the broad side of his scythe. Chunks of crystals started to coalesce into icy elementals, called forth by Ahune’s wrath, and he then brought the scythe down on Arthak, who blocked the massive icy blade long enough to get out of the way of the strike.
Nyxxa jumped over the head of the Spitescale warrior and cleaved her glaives into the consort Naj’tess. He was cut to ribbons as he fell into a bleeding heap on the stairs. He reached up toward Zar’jira with his final breath.
Naj’tess says: My love… we were… so close.
Nyxxa turned toward the Spitescale warrior and drove one of her glaives into his side.
Zar’jira shouts: Naj’tess! Dammit! You will all die for this! I am a goddess! I am the true queen of these seas!
Arthak Saurfang says: Then you’ll be the second god I killed.
Zar’jira snarled and lightning crackled around her hands as she released a [Lightning Bolt] that blasted through Arthak, Zar’Kaa, Ahune, and several of the frost elementals.
Zar’Kaa quickly dug a vial from his satchel to get rid of the effects of the blindness. He then ran up and struck into Ahune. A frigid wind struck back, and it was unbearably cold to be as close as he was to the elemental. Zar’Kaa backed off and decided to run toward Zar’jira. One of the frost revenants managed to nick him as he passed. Zar’Kaa tried to swing his axe into Zar’jira, but she blocked the weapon with her bow. She looked enraged and also a bit panicked, as her carefully laid plans were rapidly falling apart.
The Spitescale naga continued to attack Nyxxa, but he was clearly quite shaken. He was unable to land a hit, and his voice quavered as he proclaimed he would never surrender. One of the ice elementals tried to cleave into Zar’Kaa.
Zuni says: Oh no... I’m coming!
Zuni started to run toward the temple.
Zar’Kaa says: Zuni! Keep your distance! It’s got some unbearable cold. Don’t get up here!
Zuni didn’t respond and he kept running, but he hurled his javelins at the remaining naga warrior. The naga dropped dead, and Zuni continued to run.
Another ice elemental clawed at Arthak. Meanwhile, the stone golem brought its fist down and managed to graze her as she flipped over it.
Zar’jira says: I will not be denied! Ahune, you will obey me! But first, I need to deal with you.
Zar’jira’s eyes flashed with fury as she looked at Arthak. She drove her scimitar into him, and then she fired another [Lightning Bolt] through Arthak, Zar’Kaa, and several ice elementals.
Arthak dove out of the way of Zar’jira’s strike, but the frost revanant managed to clip him and knock him to the ground. It then struck again.
Sol began to charge up the stairs on Glacier, and the stone golem tried to slam into the elekk, but missed. Sol used [Blessing of Kings] on Arthak, which managed to resuscitate him enough that he was no longer at risk of dying. A floating crown made of rubies, black steel, and gold inlays hovered above Arthak’s head. Glacier flew up to the corner of the temple’s peak, and he withdrew his horn of blasting and blew it. The sound reverberated through the crystalline elementals.
One of the ice elementals drove its claws into Arthak and he coughed up blood as he was once again dropped.
Ahune looked straight at Zar’jira and swung his scythe around, which cleaved into her twice. It seemed whatever enchantments she had that had made her immune to cold had been stripped by the powerful elemental.
Nyxxa hurried up the stairs to try and distract the ice elemental that had dropped Arthak. She cleaved into it three times and its icy body began to drip from the heat of her glaives.
Zar’Kaa tried to swing into Zar’jira, but she just barely was able to deflect him aside with a conjured arcane shield.
Icicles started to pierce through the top of the temple. Nyxxa was thrown to the ground, but the others were able to evade the sudden eruption of ice.
Euryale looked down at Zuni.
Euryale Vashj says: Do you believe you can handle this golem for me?
Zuni threw a javelin at the golem, which shattered against the golem.
Zuni says: Uh… I can try. But I don’t think these things are doing much.
Euryale rolled her eyes and touched a hand to Zuni’s weapon. It started to crackle with lightning as she used [Elemental Weapon] on his weapon. Vashj then slithered past the golem.
Euryale Vashj says: I’m relying on you, troll.
Zuni says: Alright!
Euryale Vashj says: The frost lord’s connection is tenuous! We need to disrupt it!
She fired twice at Ahune, and Zar’jira prepared to cast another spell.
Euryale Vashj says: Not so fast, Zar’jira. I am here to deliver the queen’s justice.
She fired an arrow through one of Zar’jira’s hand, who screeched as the other naga began to interfere with her abilities. Meanwhile, one of the ice elementals clawed into Glacier.
The stone golem started to lumber towards Zuni and slammed into him twice. Zuni was able to evade the brunt of the blows as he rolled with the punches, but the strikes glanced off his shield.
One of the frost revenants made a localized explosion of ice that exploded over Sol, Glacier, and Arthak. Sol used [Cure Wounds] using his lute, and at least managed to get Arthak up.
Meanwhile, Zuni was hurling his javelins at the stone golem, and they crackled with lightning as they struck the large creature’s rocky body.
Arthak stood up and drank a potion. He started to head toward Zar’jira, and an ice elemental slashed at him, but Sol was able to use cutting words to interrupt the attack. Arthak struck the sea witch with a flurry of attacks. He drew Var’gosh back and then struck a devastating blow that opened a gushing, bloody wound in her side. A frost revenant struck into Arthak’s back, but Arthak drew black his blade again.
Arthak Saurfang says: Everything dies. Even gods.
He drove the blade forward, up through the wrist that grasped the scepter, and opened a mortal wound across her throat. She fell to the ground. Arthak then turned toward Ahune. He managed to strike into Ahune three times, but the frigid cold brought Arthak down to his knees again.
The bracers on Ahune’s wrists began to spark and crackle.
Bru'kan says: He’s weakened! Strike at both bindings!
Euryale Vashj says: Bring him down!
The frost revenant tried to attack Arthak, but Arthak used his blade as a shield.
Sol'chi says [telepathic bond]: Zuni! You go for the left, I’ll go for the right!
Zuni says [telepathic bond]: You got it!
Zuni ran up and hurled a javelin as Sol also jumped off Glacier and cast [Devastating Hand]. Fiery energy exploded as his fist connected with one of the bracers, and Zuni’s javelin sailed forward and struck into the other bracer. Nyxxa flipped over the elemental and was able to kick the javelin with the tip of her hoof, which drove it through the ice. It cracked.
There was a massive, icy explosion washed over the entire battlefield, and all the naga save for Euryale and S’theno were encased in ice. The elementals abruptly stopped, as if they had received another command. Ahune’s form flickered.
Ahune says [kalimag]: The veil… hath been lifted… the shackles that bind have been broken. And she who sought to control my power has been laid low. As have her servants.
Ahune looked down at the group, and the icy winds around him calmed to a mild, ethereal chill. Levia swooped down to ensure Arthak was good, along with Zar’Kaa.
Ahune says [kalimag]: My strength… was used to harm you. And for this I owe a great debt.
Nyxxa started to translate.
Sol'chi says: Happy to help, big guy.
Bru’kan stood looking in awe.
Bru'kan says: Such might… yet such benevolence.
Bru’kan smiled.
Nyxxa says: Are you… able to lift the veil of winter on this island?
Ahune says [kalimag]: It is my very presence that gave the witch the power to encase the island in a tomb of my flesh.
Ahune lifted his hand, which had started to fade into a snowfall.
Ahune says [kalimag]: As my presence rescinds, we will see the ice wash away. However, you should know the rage of this land is great… it has been caged in a faulty prison of stolen power for far too long… if my presence were to leave this place, that rage would surge forth. There may not be much of this land if that were to happen. If you wish, I may extend the blessing of winter over this land… in harmony, they would coat it in an eternal frost. One that is given freely and not used to enslave. By doing so will it render the rage of these mountains dormant forevermore, but so too would this land change, its face altered.
Euryale Vashj says [kalimag]: If you would release my brethren, I will ensure they will threaten they no more.
Ahune nodded, and the ice melted from the naga. The stone golem had started to rampage, but a spear ruptured through its chest, and S’theno obliterated it with the full might of her own strength.
Nyxxa looked over at Zar’Kaa and Bru’kan.
Nyxxa says: If anyone was to request a boon, it would be on the people that lived here. This was your land that was stolen from you.
Bru'kan says: It seems when Zar’jira stoked the mountain’s fire, she knew not how to control it. She was using this powerful lord to hold back its rage, and in doing so she created a great deal of pressure that is now waiting to erupt.
Zar’Kaa sighed.
Zar'Kaa says: So… what you’re saying is we’ll never get our home back the way it was. It’ll never be the First Home that we all knew.
Ahune says [kalimag]: This land has been changed irrevocably. Its future is in fire and rage, or eternal peace.
Zar’Kaa nodded solemnly.
Bru'kan says: If we accept his blessing, we might be able to lift it someday, but I would not keep your hopes up.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m well versed in that… Well. Nothing lasts forever. To lose all of this… after we fought so hard to take it back… to at least hold on to the memory of what it was and what it will be from now on… that counts for something. That matters to us. So. Keep it the way it is. Keep the rage at bay. If any of us should seek to make this a home again… I only hope we’ll be welcome.
Ahune nodded.
Ahune says [kalimag]: Thou whose blood has slaked this snow in sacrifice will always be welcome.
Sol pointed to the scattered crystals.
Sol'chi says: Can I take those?
Ahune says [kalimag]: You may. They hold fractions of my power. With them, perhaps you can spread word of the deeds done here and prevent others from meddling in what they do not understand.
Nyxxa says: Go in peace, honored one.
Nyxxa bowed to the elemental, and Ahune bowed in return.
Ahune says [kalimag]: I will not forget this, strange mortals. Remember you will always have a friend in the court of the Tidehunter.
Ahune raised his scythe.
Ahune says [kalimag]: Spirits of winter, snowfall, and frost, preserve this land and ensure nothing is lost. Calm the rage deep within the mountains, and create here a shrine… a frozen fountain. Though the seas may freeze and though ice may kiss the shore, preserve this land as it is once and evermore.
An overwhelming chill of ice and frost washed over the gathered individuals, but it was not unpleasant. It was as if they had stepped out into the first winter snowfall. The entire island was kissed with the eternal, wintery isles, and they were transformed into a paradise of winter and snow. The rage of the deep volcanos that threatened to destroy it calmed, and the influence of fire waned.
Ahune vanished. The other elementals didn’t vanish, as the veil between the icy shelf of the Abyssal Maw and the material plane had been thinned.
Frost Elemental says [kalimag]: We go now to preserve this land.
Arthak makes eye contact with Sol as he set about gathering some of the crystals. The frost revenants silently returned to their stations to protect the remains of the temple. Sol also picked up the scepter from next to Zar’jira, and he was confronted with a great deal of power. Euryale held out a hand.
Euryale Vashj says: Thank you for retrieving it.
Sol'chi says: Happy to help. This thing is powerful! No wonder you wanted it back.
Sol handed the scepter over, and there was a pleasant surprise on Vashj’s face as he returned it with no hesitation.
Euryale Vashj says: Indeed. Now the end to this particular problem.
All the snakes on her head turned toward Zar’jira, and her body slowly started to petrify.
Euryale Vashj says: Now for you, Zar’jira.
Zar’Kaa says: Wait. Before you take her away.
Zar’Kaa approached and grabbed the snakes on Zar’jira’s head to force her to look at him.
Zar’Kaa says: Since you have nothing to lose, what was the plan? What were you going to do?
Euryale Vashj says: I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t curious. I have a few theories, but please, your elucidation would be most appreciated.
Zar’jira laughed as she looked at Vashj.
Zar’jira says: Why are you so interested, Euryale? Not going to copy my work, are you?
Euryale Vashj says: No. I wouldn’t be so sloppy. Let me guess, you wanted to use the refugees to fuel the summoning ritual. I assume you wanted to wield the elemental against Azshara. Am I right?
Zar’jira snarled.
Zar’jira says: With that power at my command I could have frozen the seas. By my will!
Arthak Saurfang says: Then what?
Zar’jira says: Then I would control everything! The queen’s power is nothing! You know this, Euryale.
Euryale Vashj says: No. I know her power is beyond comprehension. You may have succeeded for a time. You may have been able to threaten her, but do you truly believe a shoddily summoned lesser lord of the elemental planes would have been a threat to her majesty?
Zar’Kaa says: You caused my people decades of harm. All out of some delusional, misguided quest for power. Where’s that power now? Oh. It’s there.
Zar’Kaa nodded at the scepter in Vashj’s hand.
Zar’Kaa says: You were never a god. You were never anything more than a fraud playing at power.
Zar’jira says: You do not know the meaning of the word power, worm!
Zar’Kaa raised his spear to drive it into one of the naga’s eyes. Euryale scowled.
Euryale Vashj says: Don’t damage the merchandise overmuch. The queen wants her in presentable condition when she is added to the gallery. Everyone must know what a fool looks like.
Zar’jira says: You’re nothing! This island or this world doesn’t belong to you or your misshapen kind! I did you a favor by tearing your pathetic tribe from its surface! And I’d do it again. Go on. Kill me if you wish!
Arthak Saurfang says: I do believe she’s trying to goad you.
Zar’Kaa says: I would like to kill you. But I think the idea that you will suffer to the end of your days, whenever those come, will more than make up for the suffering my people had to endure because of you. And whenever you’re sitting in your damp, dark cell and you can’t move or eat or sleep or talk, you can think of me, and remember that your words meant NOTHING!
Zar’jira smiled.
Zar’jira says: If your pathetic life lasts long enough. It’s only a matter of time until her radiance comes for you. You’ll all drown! And you’ll wish–
Zar’Kaa headbutted the naga and Vashj’s eyes glowed as the petrifaction started to complete. Zar’jira continued to laugh in a state of delusion, and her expression was frozen in manic elation.
Arthak Saurfang says: I believe our work is done.
Euryale Vashj says: Indeed! I recovered what I wanted, and your prisoners have been saved. Quite the win.
Zar’Kaa says: I agree. I hope that, moving forward, since we found some common ground, maybe we won’t be at odds? After all, my people have no quarrel with yours.
Euryale smiled.
Euryale Vashj says: I cannot truly speak for her radiance, but even so… I will make sure she knows your Darkspear tribe’s part in this. And your Horde as well.
Arthak Saurfang says: Of course. Tell her as much as you feel appropriate, Lady Vashj.
Euryale Vashj says: I hope you can trust my discretion.
Arthak Saurfang says: A pleasure doing business.
Euryale Vashj says: of course. I hope our paths cross again. You have proven to be most competent assets.
Zar’Kaa says: We’ll see. For now, glad we’re parting on good terms. I wish you, S’theno, and your people well.
S’theno was hoisting the stone sea witch over her shoulder.
S’theno Vashj says: Same to you! This was a thrill!
Nyxxa says: I have a question before you go. Context implies this isn’t the case, but… her radiance isn’t working with the satyrs anymore?
Euryale Vashj says: Heavens no. As I said, she turned her back on the failure that was the Burning Crusade long ago.
Nyxxa says: And I suppose she wouldn’t be fickle enough to decide to go back?
Euryale Vashj says: if there’s one thing you should know about her radiance, it’s that no one gets the opportunity to fail her twice.
Her eyes flicker to the petrified sea witch.
Nyxxa says [telepathic bond]: Do I tell them the Legion is trying to invade again?
Sol'chi says [telepathic bond]: They’ll know soon enough.
Nyxxa says: Well… if she doesn’t know already. The Legion is trying again.
Euryale Vashj says: Is it now? It’s escaped my gaze, though I’m certain it hasn’t escaped her’s.
Nyxxa says: It’s not yet a full-scale invasion… but we’re doing what we can to ensure it doesn’t get that far.
Euryale Vashj says: I imagine queen Azshara would not be pleased to know the Legion is trying to return to claim her world, and I have no desire to allow them either. I can’t say that the War of the Ancients was pleasant for anyone involved.
Nyxxa says: No it wasn’t, from what I remember. I don’t know what’ll happen if Azeroth is sundered a second time.
Euryale Vashj says: Should that happen… I’m sure her radiance would be happy to extend a helping hand.
Euryale smiled darkly.
Nyxxa says: Well I’ll inform my people that you’ve been informed.
Euryale Vashj says: I’ve never seen someone that wields the fell like you… not since, well, a very long time ago. Curious.
Nyxxa says: If it’s who you’re thinking of, call me a fan.
Euryale Vashj says: I see.
Euryale chuffed in amusement.
Euryale Vashj says: Nevertheless, we have some distance to travel before we return to Nazjatar. Come visit sometime~
The subtext that they should not come to visit was barely subtext.
Sol'chi says: Where would that be?
Euryale Vashj says: Far deeper than you should be traveling.
Sol'chi says: Gotcha. Genuine pleasure to work with you both. If we wanted to contact you again, do you have any suggestions?
Euryale Vashj says: Should I find myself in need of your services, I’ll contact you.
Arthak Saurfang says: Until next time.
Euryale Vashj says: S’theno.
S’theno Vashj says: Of course, sister.
Euryale Vashj says: One more thing. You did preserve this island, which means the treasures are not consigned to the depths. Who knows what you’ll find in the tribute piles of this megalomaniac. They’re yours.
As she slithered by, she placed Zar’jira’s bow in Zar’Kaa’s hands.
Euryale Vashj says: And you can have this.
Euryale and S’theno rejoined their fellows, who had executed all the naga that were loyal to Zar’jira by shattering their frozen forms to pieces. Euryale ordered them to do one more sweep around the perimeter and then rejoin them in Nazjatar. Euryale cast a powerful [Word of Recall] to whisk her and her sister away.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. That was a hell of a battle, huh?
Sol'chi says: It was. You did well. Zuni! Amazing shot!
Zuni says: I can’t believe I hit! Thanks for the assist, Nyxxa!
Nyxxa says: You did most of the work, I just helped. That was great everyone.
Nyxxa went over to Arthak and put her hands on his shoulders.
Nyxxa says: The moment I think you can’t die, you just get closer to dying!
Arthak Saurfang says: You may need to just accept I can die.
Sol'chi says: Just don’t get disintegrated. It’s a lot easier to bring you back if you don’t!
Nyxxa gives Sol a haunted look before looking back at Arthak.
Nyxxa says: I have a request. Since the island is going to stay frozen… I was wondering if I could bring the moles with us? It is your fleet.
Arthak Saurfang says: You can… have your moles.
Nyxxa says: I just didn’t want to–
Arthak Saurfang says: I understand. It’s fine. Okay.
Nyxxa says: I’m going to collect them then.
Sol'chi says: I would suggest parking the ships tonight and resting.
Arthak nods. Zar’Kaa spoke up as they were walking back.
Zar'Kaa says: Look. I know we didn’t get off on a great foot, and that’s in a large part because of me, but I want you all to know I’m grateful. I couldn’t have predicted that we would fel such a great foe and that in doing so we would liberate so many. So thanks for that, and putting your lives on the line for us. I don’t know why, but I guess it doesn’t matter. So thanks.
Sol'chi says: I’m sure the others would like to hear that too!
Nyxxa says: I don’t hold it against you.
Sol'chi says: I still stand by my suggestion.
Nyxxa says: Things are complicated. Regardless of circumstances, I at least am always happy to help. People gotta help people.
Zuni says: Good words to live by! I’m sure if everything was flipped the other way around, I like to think we’d do the same thing.
Zar'Kaa says: …Maybe.
Volrath also looks like he couldn’t say that for certain.
Nyxxa says: Well, this is what happened!
Volrath says: Even though this land won’t ever be a home, we have the Echo Isles now. This island may still serve an important role for our people all the same. Perhaps as the Darkspear change so too will what role First Home has to play in our story, but what happened here will be remembered.
Zar'Kaa says: She took a lot from us, but bitch couldn’t take this. So I guess this is where we probably… part ways? I mean, we got our quest, and it sounds like you all have something important to do elsewhere.
Arthak Saurfang says: Saving the world. Yeah.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. I heard you all talking about some Legion invasion?
Sol'chi says: Right, you don’t know about that, do you?
Nyxxa says: So do you ever wonder why Azeroth is just a bunch of islands and not a big land?
Volrath says: Not even once.
Nyxxa says: Well. That big swirly bit too? Well, long ago, the Legion tried to invade. A lot died. The world broke, but we beat them off by the skin of our teeth, and now they’re trying to come back.
Arthak Saurfang says: We are stopping that. To be simple about it.
Zar'Kaa says: …right.
Zar’Kaa exchanged glances with Volrath and Zuni. Zuni’s eyes widened. Volrath stroked his chin.
Sol'chi says: Their most recent attempt at an invasion was in the elven kingdom. We were there! We broke away. And now that portal is shut. Correct me if I’m wrong, but we think they’re looking to make another portal.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Zar'Kaa says: Wait. Back up. So you didn’t go and sack the elven kingdom just to do it?
Arthak Saurfang says: Well. At the time, the intention was to conquer the entire world… but now there is new leadership.
Volrath says: You.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Volrath says: And I take it the old leader was ended by your blade?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Nyxxa says: That’s what the Legion does. They get the people under their sway, and then use them to conquer the worlds. Back then, “her radiance” was trying to turn the night elves into what the orcs became.
Zar'Kaa says: We can talk about this more in the morning. I need to see to my people.
The group spread out and collected what they were able to find. There was a fair bit of treasure and gold as well as several statues that were sculpted to resemble Zar’jira that were very fun to break. The majority of the survivors had gotten free, the remaining naga were executed, and the sea giants and murlocs had largely fled. The tides were also now safe.
They got the full rundown of what had happened on the outside. In addition to the troll jungle refugees, there was a small group of forest trolls that Bakaz was talking to. Rekki was also over speaking with them. Drak’thul was the only orc survivor, and Arthak ordered his men to keep an eye on the humans that had been recovered. Neri, the gillgoblin, was there with another small crew of gillgoblins along with some murlocs and a singular sea giant, and a different group of fiskfolk that were speaking with Okani.
Sol mentioned that he could maybe get the humans back somewhere safe, and Arthak and Sol opted to approach them. Zar’Kaa was there as well. The humans regarded them warily.
Freed Human Sailor says: We’re your prisoners now, so how’s this going to go?
Sol'chi says: You’re not our prisoners. I’d actually like to send you home tomorrow once I’ve rested.
Freed Human Sailor says: You’re just going to let us go?
Sol'chi says: Yeah. Why not?
Freed Human Sailor says: Well for starters…
The lead sailor looked at Arthak.
Freed Human Sailor says: We’re at war actively and we’re parleying with Darkspear trolls?
Zar'Kaa says: I admit this is weird for me too, but they helped us rescue my people and yours. So. I think the man might be telling the truth. Don’t you?
Freed Human Sailor says: I don’t know what to think, but if you’re going to let us go, we’re not going to turn down help.
Arthak Saurfang says [orcish]: We are not at war today or tomorrow, human.
Sol translated.
Arthak Saurfang says [orcish]: Where are you from, might I ask?
Freed Human Sailor says: Tiragarde Sound, Kul Tiras. Most of us are from that area. We’re from a few crews. Survivors of ships taken by the witch, but our ships were destroyed.
Zar'Kaa says: In case you don’t know, Kul Tiras is the power on the seas. But seeing they basically own the hemisphere of the world, there are a lot of places you can drop them. I can help you triangulate a position?
Sol'chi says: I was going to… though. Hm. We’re in the anomaly at this point. Sorry, I might not actually be able to send you back to where I know.
Zar'Kaa says: Magic is useful until it isn’t huh?
Sol'chi says: Magic is useful until other magic is involved. Do you sailors know any nearby spots that would be good for you?
Freed Human Sailor says: There are islands closer to Kul Tiras, but I don’t think they’d take kindly to a bunch of Horde and Darkspear vessels…
Hooktusk says: Well how about a pirate vessel?
Hooktusk approaches with a big grin.
Hooktusk says: As it happens, some of our ships need to make their way back to port. They’re headed back to Freehold. Think you can get back from there?
The sailor looked at Hooktusk.
Freed Human Sailor says: Only a few of us are marines… we could probably cover what we need. It’s better than being stranded on an island.
Sol'chi says: Or hanging out with a bunch of Horde and Darkspear!
Hooktusk says: we can deliver you to Boralus too, but we need a bit more of an additional fare if you’re going to put us on the line like that.
The sailors start to debate amongst themselves.
Arthak Saurfang says [orcish]: You have time to consider your options. Regardless, should you find your way back to your home, might I request a favor?
Freed Human Sailor says: You can request all you want. Can’t promise we’ll agree though.
Arthak Saurfang says [orcish]: Alas. My hope for military secrets.
Sol didn’t bother to translate the sarcastic comment.
Arthak Saurfang says [orcish]: If you would inform someone of political position in your home that the Horde is undergoing changes in leadership. There may be a discussion to be had.
Two of the sailors comment to each other about “having the Lord Admiral on social terms.”
Freed Human Sailor says: Shut up.
The sailor looked back to Arthak.
Freed Human Sailor says: We’ll see what we can do.
Arthak Saurfang says [orcish]: Let us know whether you are going to take your chances with us or the pirates.
They would find out later that the sailors were taking their chances with Hooktusk, and Sol opted to speak with Hooktusk in private and asked what the fee would be, as he was willing to pay for the fare.
Hooktusk smiled.
Hooktusk says: Don’t you worry your little head. They’ll get to port safely, but because you did me a favor, I’m gonna be real with ya. I can take your gold and I can pass it along, but more often than not, they’re just going to collect it twice. We are pirates! But I’m gonna tell you that because I like you.
Sol'chi says: Thank you for your candor.
Arthak, Sol, Zar’Kaa, and Nyxxa headed over to the group of forest trolls. Bakaz and Rekki turned as they approached.
Bakaz says: Good thing we came after all. Looks like it wasn’t just Darkspear that got themselves caged up in all this. Group of Revantusk… looks like they’ve been here for a few years. Wouldn’t have even know if we didn’t come.
Zar’Kaa grunts.
Arthak Saurfang says: Will it be safe for them to travel with us?
Bakaz says: For the time being. We’ve got some medical supplies that’ll get them back on their feet. Some we’ll need to take extra caution with, but for the most part they’ll make a full recovery, and Rekki was kind enough to offer her services. With her medical skills we should be good. Some are even fighting fit and ready to lend their axes. As long as we aren’t all destroyed by the other half of the Horde, we should be able to keep the noncombatants safe.
Arthak Saurfang says: Rekki, thank you for the care you provided these people. And Bakaz, good work.
Bakaz nodded.
Bakaz says: Glad I was able to help.
Zar'Kaa says: Glad you didn’t fuck it up.
Bakaz smiled and held his hands up.
Bakaz says: Try not to! It looks bad if you have a string of mishaps if you have a mission to complete, after all.
Zar’Kaa bit his tongue and Rekki shot daggers at Bakaz.
Rekki says: Bakaz!
Bakaz says: What I wasn’t… oh! I wasn’t even!
Bakaz quickly just stopped speaking.
Zar'Kaa says: Rekki, I don’t know if you met Arthak, Sol and Nyxxa.
Rekki says: I saw the two of you, but it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Formerly Revantusk, now Darkspear.
There was a twinge of disappointment in Bakaz’s face for the briefest of seconds when she said that she was Darkspear. Zar’Kaa gave Rekki a reassuring pat.
Zar'Kaa says: She’s one of our most talented witch doctors. Especially seeing she found the right home for herself, she’s been doing great for us.
There was a hint of anger in Bakaz’s eyes, but he didn’t say anything.
Rekki says: I’m just glad to be of help. Truth be told, I didn’t know the Revantusk survived everything.
Bakaz says: We did. Though we probably would have done better with you around, if I’m being honest. But either way, I’m glad you’re safe. Nonetheless, boss man, we’ll make sure everyone is taken care of, and we won’t slow you down. We have enough room on our ship.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m not concerned about that. Make sure your people are taken care of.
Zar'Kaa says: Wouldn’t want to lose them again.
The forest troll they had spoken with before in the caverns stepped forward.
Freed Forest Troll says: Indeed. The last thing we need is more division amongst our ranks. I am Yayo'jin. I’m looking forward in doing what I can to recover all of our peoples, regardless of where they hid.
She seemed to also be a witch doctor, and it appeared she was also a very skilled shaman.
Yayo'jin says: There are more that were with us. Many died, but some escaped. In time I hope we can connect with them. I’ll need to get my bearings. I’ve been misplaced for a long time…
Zar'Kaa says: Well, take all the time you need. You’ve been through a terrible ordeal for who knows how long. Take some time to heal first.
Yayo'jin says: There will be time to heal when others are given the opportunity to do so. Those in my position must never rest while succor can be given. But your care means a great deal. And I want to thank you and your tribe for watching over Rekki. I hope you continue to do so if she stays with your people.
Zar'Kaa says: Of course. Speaking for my tribe, it’s our pleasure.
Yayo'jin says: In the meantime, Rekki, I would appreciate your assistance and we can continue your training. Show me how you’ve grown.
Rekki says: I’d be glad to learn at your side once again. Captain, I’ll ensure everyone is up to pace on both sides.
Zar'Kaa says: Appreciate it. I’m sure there’s a lot you two have to talk about.
As Zar’Kaa looked at the pair of them, it didn’t seem they were biologically related, but it seemed Rekki knew both Yayo’jin and Bakaz.
Arthak Saurfang says: Let us know if you and your Revantusk need anything, Bakaz.
Bakaz says: Of course, boss man. You can count on me.
Nyxxa went to explain the situation with the moles to Rexxar.
Rexxar says: This place. I sense that it will bring life with it once more, but these little ones you described… I do not think they will thrive on a land like this.
Nyxxa says: No. And I promised them we would try to take the winter away… seeing they helped us, I want to help them.
Rexxar says: We don’t have much time. We’ll need to find every beast unfit to survive in this wilderness and bring them aboard. I’ll be counting on your skills.
Nyxxa’s eyes got watery.
Nyxxa says: Every beast?
Rexxar says: We won’t turn our backs on the creatures that would die here.
Nyxxa says: Should we inform the warchief?
Rexxar says: There will be no need. There’s plenty of room to bring these beasts aboard. We’ll need as much soil as we can for the mole population.
As the two of them headed off, the oceanid Nyxxa had rescued asked them what they were doing.
Nyxxa says: We’re collecting the animals so they won’t freeze to death…
Nyxxa explained the situation quickly, and the oceanid started to cry.
Freed Oceanid says: Oh no! I know this isn’t my place, but I would love to help!
Nyxxa says: Of course, honored one! This is your realm of expertise! Rexxar, this is one of the spirits that protects the wild.
Rexxar says: Honored spirit, your expertise would be welcome. We must protect any beast that cannot survive here.
The oceanid nodded and introduced herself as Eurydice and they set off.
