Appearing Characters: Arthak Saurfang, Ebonhorn, Huln Highmountain (Smoke Image), Igrul (Smoke Image), Lantresor, Lasan Skyhorn, Li Li Stormstout, Mayla Highmountain, Nyxxa Murkthorn, Rak'Symma, Rexxar, Sol'chi, Strongbo, Thisalee Crow, Torok Bloodtotem, Zar'Kaa
November 12th
Ebonhorn led the group out through the Path of Earth and into the Earthmother’s Bounty around the towering rocks that Thunder Totem was built into and upon. They headed to a long path that started to climb up the mountain. It seemed the people of Thunder Totem were handling the aftermath of the chaos, but they could see on one side of Thunder Totem there was a large fissure with a chunk of mountain that had fallen. There was a small group of earthspeakers chanting around the fallen rock alongside a curious, broad figure in unfamiliar earthen green armor with a red cloak around his face and a wide-brimmed hat on his head. He was in the shallows of the water and he took a wide power stance and started a dance that whirled his hands forward. The large stone lifted from the ground and the humanoid flipped and planted his hand in the ground. A handful of pillars erupted from the earth in the water, which he started to leap across until he reached the lowest tier of Thunder Totem where he eased the stone back into place. The tauren shamans continued to chant and mend the fissures as the stone settled. They saw some of the tauren cheering for the cloaked figure, who resembled a humanoid panda bear. He panted, and then gave a nod before he walked off and left the tauren to finish up their ritual.
The group climbed the path up the mountain for a good half hour, but Ebonhorn directed them off the clear path.
Mayla Highmountain says: Spiritwalker, where are we going?
Ebonhorn says: To a private place. It should give us ample protection so we can speak.
Mayla Highmountain says: Should we not help with the rebuilding efforts? My father’s funeral to prepare for…
Ebonhorn says: There will be time, young one. This is something we must do for you to understand. My father wished for me to tell you, and it is tradition to do so.
Mayla Highmountain says: If you say so, spiritwalker, but even traditions can step back for the protection of our people.
Ebonhorn smiled.
Ebonhorn says: That spirit will make you a fine leader. But I promise, it won’t be long.
They continued to climb and eventually they wound up in an alcove tucked back behind a waterfall. Mayla looked around.
Mayla Highmountain says: Is this the place you wanted to take us?
Ebonhorn says: No. This is the entrance.
Ebonhorn placed a hand on the stone wall, and the earth shifted around them.
Ebonhorn says [draconic]: Spirits of the earth, reveal the way to us. Please.
The stone flowed away like water, revealing a pathway into a cave system that went deeper into the mountain.
Ebonhorn says: If you would please follow me.
Ebonhorn stepped into the pathway, and the others followed. There were natural crystal formations that lit the way with a natural bioluminescence. Mayla looked around in wonder.
Mayla Highmountain says: What is this place?
Ebonhorn says: An ancient and important location. You know, Mayla, of our tales. The ones of the Earthwarder.
Mayla nodded.
Mayla Highmountain says: I do. He once held a lair here, in the times when our tribes were young. But eventually he became a terrible despot that enslaved others and forced them to do his bidding. Our ancestor Huln chased him from these lands, never to return. His lair and the cave networks to the south are forbidden. Sacred.
Ebonhorn nodded with a smile.
Ebonhorn says: I’m glad to see that you paid attention during our tales.
There were hanging braziers that didn’t have anything in them. Ebonhorn plucked one and sprinkled some powdered incense into it then produced a flame in his hand that he used to light the incense. Streams of incense began to waft over them. It was an earthy scent that resembled the smell of rainfall on loose dirt alongside stone dust.
Ebonhorn says: Those tales are true. They have been passed down for millenia. But the Earthwarder’s caves… they delve much further than most understand. Even this, close to Thunder Totem as it is, is but one of the great dragon’s many workshops. Even if his primary lair is beyond the river.
Mayla nodded.
Mayla Highmountain says: So that’s why you wished to bring me here? This place is ancient history.
Ebonhorn says: That is a part of it.
The incense swirled and took on rudimentary shapes.
Ebonhorn says: In ancient times, this great mountain was one of the highest in all the land. The great oceans that covered this world were much further than they are today. The seas, as they are, were once mountains, forests, and deserts. This was a time far different than any of us have ever known. Though perhaps not some of our guests.
Ebonhorn glanced back at Nyxxa.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: With that we are on equal footing. Unfortunately I don’t remember that far back.
Ebonhorn says: It was a time of war, strife, and turmoil. The great elven kingdoms waged a civil war that spread across every stone of this great land, affecting us even here. Our people were young then. We had not yet built the marvels such as Thunder Totem. The great lifts and cities that we now live in were scattered villages.
The smoke transformed into small tauren hiking across mountains and hunting.
Ebonhorn says: During the war, when the demons rained from the sky, your ancestor, Huln Highmountain, stepped forth to lead our people.
A larger tauren appeared in the smoke, but his horns did not have the moose-like quality of the others.
Ebonhorn says: He traveled this land and beseeched the spirits of the wild for their blessings. From the spirit Ohn'ahra, he was blessed with the keenness and swiftness of the wind, from the spirit of Malorne, he was blessed with integrity and resilience, and from the spirits of the earth, he was blessed with strength.
The smoke figure stood before a great eagle whose winds enraptured his spear. The next was a great stag who lowered its head, and Huln’s horns had become moose-like. And finally, he stood before a great dragon, and they viewed each other with respect.
Ebonhorn says: But the Earthwarder, the terrible dragon that sundered our world… turned against Huln. Though he had blessed him with strength, he had done so with darkness in his heart.
The dragon figure wove a terrible misty spell that burst outward. Stone and buildings toppled.
Ebonhorn says: When the tremors of the earth had settled, the dragon had returned to his lair. And Huln traveled there along with some of his closest allies.
The smoke materialized into a drogbar and other tauren.
Ebonhorn says: To confront the beast, whose rage threatened to undo everything we stood for. He could not hope to defeat a powerful spirit of the earth alone, but he did not do so alone.
A mighty drogbar champion grew in the smoke.
Ebonhorn says: Igrul the Scalebane, the great champion of the Bitestone, one of the drogbar that served as the dragon’s laborers, approached Huln and told him of a great secret that could be used to defeat the dragon.
The drogbar and Huln clasped hands.
Ebonhorn says: Igrul knew of a relic that was entrusted to the Earthwarder. The Hammer of Khaz’goroth.
The smoke materialized into the hammer that was lifted by the pair of heroes.
Ebonhorn says: They used the hammer to chase the dread dragon from these lands. He and his kind were taught a brave lesson that day.
They had emerged into a large cavern, and there was skittering and some quiet conversation and questions. They referred to Ebonhorn as the “Cavern Keeper”. Nyxxa noted the creatures appeared to be ratlike with a dim light from a candle on his head. Ebonhorn did not seem to be troubled by their presence.
There were still pools of water and underground streams dotting the cavern.
Ebonhorn says: Now all that remains are these ancient caverns. These old places still ring with fragments of the former Earthwarder’s power. This power is dangerous. It is why one of our greatest and most important maxims is to beware the deep places of the earth, for to tread in these hallowed places carelessly is to invite calamity, just as he did.
Mayla Highmountain says: What is this place?
Ebonhorn says: This is one of the many domains of the Earthwarder. After his terrible roar helped to rip this world asunder, he who was once called Neltharion took another name. Deathwing. After he was cowed by the others, this was one of the places he retreated to. And it was here in this very place that it is said the ancestors of the drogbar people, Deathwing’s slaves, used his own magic to craft armor to contain his power. The spellwork he had unleashed threatened to break not only the earth, but the dragon’s flesh, as he and it were as one. But that is not the only thing that was found here.
The smoke figures grew larger, and the ghostly image of Huln walked through the cave, fighting off indiscriminate draconic creatures.
Ebonhorn says: After Huln had chased the former Earthwarder, now known as the Destroyer of Worlds, from this place, he descended into it to ensure anything that remained of his legacy was cleansed. So that no other might be tempted to claim what was his.
Ebonhorn led them to a ledge and raised a hand. Stone stairs rose up to the edge of, and Ebonhorn took a deep breath.
Ebonhorn says: And within it, they found much more than they would have expected.
He looked over at Rak’Symma.
Ebonhorn says: Are you doing alright? I know this is far from your preferred domains.
Rak’Symma nodded hesitantly as she looked back where they came. Ebonhorn smiled kindly.
Ebonhorn says: We will get you to the open skies again soon enough.
Ebonhorn took the first step up the stairs, and he led the group into a warm crevice. The first thing they saw was glittering gemstones and works of art alongside weapons, trophies, instruments of tauren and drogbar design, totems, and ancient, priceless treasures. Ebonhorn urged the incensed smoke forward, and they heard voices echo as a full-sized image of Huln and Igrul appeared.
A small pile of stones was before them. Each was perfectly oval with jutting spikes.
Igrul the Scalebane says: These eggs are corrupted with the destroyer’s stain. We should destroy them now, before they take on his legacy.
Huln Highmountain says: No, Igrul. There is perhaps something else we can do. There is more than one way this corruption can be dealt with.
Huln lifted the Hammer of Khaz’goroth, which began to spark and then enveloped the eggs before them.
Igrul the Scalebane says: What are you doing?
Huln Highmountain says: Hoping for a better future. Not all the eggs shall survive, but those that do may perhaps be free of the Destroyer’s corruption.
A gentle gust of wind blew the smoke away until only one egg remained.
Ebonhorn says: Only one was able to hatch. A young dragon by the name of Ebyssian. Freed from the corruption of his kin.
The figure of Huln appeared as the egg split open, and revealed a small, black dragon whelp. Huln kneeled down.
Huln Highmountain says: Welcome, young one.
The whelp started to wander curiously from the egg.
Huln Highmountain says: Such a small little thing.
Huln reached out a finger and rubbed under the whelp’s chin.
Huln Highmountain says: I will call you Ebonhorn, young one.
The misty smoke vanished. Mayla stepped forward.
Mayla Highmountain says: Spiritwalker… the dragon’s name… what does this mean?
Ebonhorn’s shoulders rise and then sink as he took a deep breath. He turned, and as he did, they could see the etchings in his horns had taken on a burning glow, and his eyes were bright orange.
Ebonhorn says: It means there is a reason I know this tale. It is one of my own origins.
Mayla Highmountain says: This whole time? How?
The spiritwalker’s form grew out into an aura of rippling dust and took the form of a fully grown adult black dragon. He had two large black horns that were also engraved and flickering with warm flame. He had the recognizable piercings of Ebonhorn.
Ebonhorn says: It was through Huln’s sacrifice and mercy that your family gained its oldest ally. Me. My father. His father. All the spiritwalker Ebonhorns in all of our history have been me. It is within our capabilities to mask our presence, to take the form of mortals so we can aid them, but Mayla I want to make something clear. My appearance aside, I am still the same spiritwalker you have known. Regardless of what happens, I serve you, your family, and all of Highmountain. My true origin does not matter.
The dust swirled around him and he took his tauren visage again.
Ebonhorn says: I am still Highmountain. Your father knew this. And his father. And his mother before him. Now I pass the secret on to you.
Mayla was silent for a long moment as she took it all in.
Mayla Highmountain says: I guess that explains why… you never truly got older, did you?
Ebonhorn says: You always were a keen one.
Ebonhorn then looked over at Rak’Symma.
Ebonhorn says: I am sorry to have kept this from you as well. But… my father, my true father, nearly broke this world. If I was to remain here, I could not tell. Not even your guardian knew. And for that, you have my sincerest apologies. I will not hold it against you if you would prefer that I keep my distance from now on.
Symma’s eyes were wide and staring. She swallowed. And laughed nervously.
Rak'Symma says: It doesn’t… change who you have been to me. You are one of the few I have left. Why would I turn away from you?
Ebonhorn smiled with relief.
Ebonhorn says: I am not worthy of your forgiveness, Rak’Symma, but I will accept it. Thank you, truly.
He looked to the rest of the group.
Ebonhorn says: I would ask you all keep this secret. My identity is not something that I believe would be wise to bring to the rest of Highmountain. I only ask you exercise discretion now that you know the truth. And to facilitate that, given you have more experience with my kind than I do, I would answer any questions you have.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: We have no intention of stirring up trouble here.
Zar'Kaa says: Seconded. We wouldn’t have reason to, especially given the situation right now.
Ebonhorn says: I thank you.
Sol'chi says: Ebyssian… Ebonhorn… what’s your preference?
Ebonhorn says: You may call me Ebonhorn. It was the name given to me by the man who raised me, and sometimes one’s true father is the one that guides them, not the one that brought them into the world. Ebyssian is the name that was bestowed upon me. Perhaps by the earth, perhaps by the Destroyer himself. We dragons learn within our eggs. I experienced the world well before I laid eyes upon Huln. Our names are chosen for us. It is hard to say what mechanism does this. I do not know myself. To my knowledge, I’ve never encountered another dragon. So my chances to ask have been limited.
Sol'chi says: Really? Doesn’t seem like they’re that rare.
Ebonhorn says: Perhaps your own experiences are… different from mine.
Arthak Saurfang says: And far from average, it’s safe to say.
Sol'chi says: That’s fair.
Ebonhorn says: It is my belief the dragons find themselves at the center of conflicts that shape the world. It’s why they were so integral to the story that rent our world. Perhaps your own adventures have brought you to brush against such things.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I’d say that’s… fair.
Sol'chi says: Your secret is safe with me, especially seeing we need to share our secret.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: …Yeah. We didn’t want to interrupt the story.
Mayla Highmountain says: If you have something to share, please?
Sol'chi says: To set expectations, we are doing what we can to protect the world from the Legion, but that doesn’t mean we aren’t…
Sol and Nyxxa reveal their true forms.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Pardon the deception. We intended to introduce ourselves outside the city, but things got out of hand, and we decided to help… but that meant the deception went on longer.
Sol'chi says: Yeah, if we were to arrive in our current forms, there may have been more panic.
Nyxxa bowed to Mayla.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: You have my apologies, chieftain.
Sol'chi says: Apologies.
Mayla Highmountain says: I see… well I certainly understand why you feel the need to hide. You are a satyr… while I have never met one, I have heard tales of their treachery. And you are a demon like many of those who have been sighted at the far edges of the isles. But…
Mayla glanced at Ebonhorn.
Mayla Highmountain says: I believe I would be a hypocrite if I judged you now, after you too have done so much for us.
Zar'Kaa says: If it helps, when I met these two, I didn’t know what they were, but they jumped in to help my own as well. They’re a good sort.
Ebonhorn says: And for reasons you understand, you will have no prejudice from me. I can relate on an intrinsic level.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Just because we are as we are, it does not mean the stories are not true.
Ebonhorn nodded.
Ebonhorn says: Indeed. My secret is kept to protect the people from panicking as well as to hide me from my own kin. The Destroyer still remains somewhere out there. If he were to know one of his children were left outside his purview, I don’t know what he would do.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I do not wish the ire of a black dragon on anyone…
There was a haunted look in Nyxxa’s eyes. Rak’Symma seemed to be rather ruffled by the demon reveal, and her brow furrowed, and then she turned to walk out of the cave with the faint sound of crackling. Thisalee had covered her mouth in stunned silence.
Then she also opted to just sprint out of the cavern.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. That went well.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Better than it could have…
Ebonhorn says: I hope she doesn’t get lost.
Symma decided to follow after Thisalee.
Mayla Highmountain says: I can understand, a part of me wanted to do the same.
Ebonhorn says: I would not have blamed you. You would not be the first.
Sol'chi says: Well, maybe we just need to get that hammer and do what Huln did, right?
Ebonhorn says: The Hammer of Khaz’goroth is a weapon that should not be wielded lightly, and it is not one Huln wielded lightly. I do not know how or why he was able to do so. To use that hammer as a weapon is exceptionally dangerous. Even the mightest warrior can be slain by wielding it, and that danger is multiplied tenfold if used as a weapon.
Zar'Kaa says: Hence what we saw today.
Ebonhorn says: Indeed. A single swing of that weapon was enough to nearly shatter Thunder Totem and kill Dargrul in the process.
Sol'chi says: So it did negatively affect him?
Ebonhorn says: It took its toll. But I thought long and hard about how Huln wielded it, and I think it can be found in the same tale. He was once blessed by the Earthwarder. Perhaps that blessing afforded him just enough strength. But I cannot say if it did not have its own toll, or if it was an action that was done lightly, or could have been repeated. What I do know is he instructed me to ensure none ever would wield it. While it was watched over by my father, its protection fell to me, and then Highmountain. We were forbidden to wield it.
Zar'Kaa says: That raises another question though. If Huln was the only one that could wield it, what does the Legion want?
Arthak Saurfang says: The Legion does not care about the damage.
Sol'chi says: The Legion has expendable pawns.
Zar'Kaa says: I get that, but using the hammer could fuck them as much as us.
Arthak Saurfang says: The Legion can afford it in a way we can’t. We have to live here.
Ebonhorn says: Wise words. The tool itself… was never meant to be wielded like a weapon. I do not know of the object’s true history. Only that it was in the care of the Earthwarder. I do not know if he ever used it himself, or if the object was bequeathed to him by another. Perhaps the very same Khaz’goroth that lends the tool its name. But I do not know. All that i know is that it is a tool of creation that can be used as a tool of destruction.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. Now we just need to work on getting it back.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: And keeping it out of the Legion’s hands.
Zar'Kaa says: Definitely.
Mayla Highmountain says: All the more important that we retrieve it from Dargrul. I don’t know if the demons came to this land yet, but if they discover Dargrul has it, I fear what would happen if he grows desperate. I would not want him to enter into a bargain.. He could be that pawn, unwittingly acting to their machinations.
Arthak Saurfang says: They are good at that.
Ebonhorn says: It is impossible to tell. But for the time being, we must ensure we do everything we can to rally our allies and bring justice to Dargrul. How that justice is meted out will be up to you, Mayla. As chieftain, you have final say in such matters.
Mayla nodded.
Mayla Highmountain says: It was by his hand that my father was killed, and many of our people lost their lives. He spawned our wellbeing into chaos. But I cannot allow my anger to cloud my judgment. I will be ready to decide when the time comes. Somehow…
Mayla’s shoulders deflated, and Ebonhorn put a hand on her shsoulder and squeezed it.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you all. I feel like your presence may have emboldened me.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I’m simply glad we didn’t get in the way. For the most part.
Sol'chi says: Yeah. Sorry about that. Also, would you rather us wear our disguises?
Mayla Highmountain says: The disguises may be best. Until Highmountain is united and the situation with the Drogbar is resolved, it would be best if your true identities remained discrete.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: It may also not be good for it to be revealed you were in cohorts with demons.
Mayla Highmountain says: Precisely. But if you aid us, that may take an edge off the revelation. Though we need to be cautious about Torok. His hatred of demons is… powerful.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: We’ll be cautious.
Arthak Saurfang says: if it goes well, there will be plenty of other demons for him to kill.
Ebonhorn says: That is not the comfort I believe you were trying to offer, my friend.
Arthak Saurfang says: I do not offer comfort.
Ebonhorn chuckled, and Nyxxa went into a brief spiel about their organizations and who they were representing. Mayla nodded.
Mayla Highmountain says: If you are able to help us, then everyone will have our gratitude. Our tribes have watched over the protection of this land for as long as Ebonhorn has been here. My ancestor fought back the demons once. It is my responsibility to carry that legacy. By my spear, I will see it done.
Zar'Kaa says: You will. You have my vote of confidence, if that means anything.
Mayla Highmountain says: It does. You may be a stranger, but you risked your life to save my people. I won’t forget that.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: You are already showing grace under must pressure.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah, don’t know if I would have kept my cool.
Mayla Highmountain says: Then I suppose now will be an ill time to inform you I felt like screaming into a pillow and crying myself to sleep after that conversation.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: No shame! But it’s probably best we get going to give you moments of peace. And we should check on the others. But you deserve some time to yourself.
Mayla Highmountain says: Thank you. I need to prepare myself for father’s funeral… perhaps I should get my crying out of the way now. I would ask that you keep my secret in the cavern as well.
Zar’Kaa offered to aid Mayla with the funeral, but she said the other spiritwalkers were already preparing it, and her father would be lifted to the sky where his spirit could join their ancestors. Mayla then looked back tot he objects in the room.
Mayla Highmountain says: By the way, Ebonhorn, what is all this?
Ebonhorn says: Oh. Yes. We dragons build lairs. While it is too dangerous to travel to Neltharion’s lair proper, this is something of a home away from home. This is a collection of trinkets that mean a great deal. Many were given to me by your ancestors.
Mayla covered her mouth, and she started to get tears in her eyes.
Mayla Highmountain says: I will endeavor to find something suitable for your collection. I wouldn’t want my ancestors to think me ungrateful. Did my father give you anything?
Ebonhorn says: He… never had the chance. But in many ways, he did.
Mayla Highmountain says: Oh?
Ebonhorn says: He gave me you, after all.
Mayla started to cry.
Mayla Highmountain says: That’s not fair and you know it!
Ebonhorn smiled and they pair of them shared a tender hug as they knocked their antlers together.
Ebonhorn says: Mayla, there is one more tradition I would beg of you.
Mayla Highmountain says: If this one makes me cry, Ebonhorn…
Ebonhorn says: I hope not. But.
The group exit, and Ebonhorn took Mayla to a wall that was covered in handprints in white paint. In the center of it was one that was a bit bigger than the others.
Ebonhorn says: It is tradition that after I have this conversation, they have made their mark on this place. I would ask that you do the same, Mayla.
Mayla nodded with a soft smile, and Ebonhorn made some quick white paint from the ashes of the incense he was burning and placed her handprint among the rest.
Ebonhorn says: Your father’s was right next to that.
Mayla Highmountain says: I had a feeling.
Next to the large handprint that was likely Huln’s was a small draconic claw print, and another larger draconic handprint above all the others.
Meanwhile, Rak’Symma had followed after Thisalee. Sure enough, Thisalee had gotten lost and had started to curse as she slumped against a wall and buried her face in her hands.
Symma invited a warm little gust of a breeze and sent it across Thisalee as a nudge. Thisalee looked up.
Thisalee Crow says: Oh… it’s you. Why did you follow me?
Rak'Symma says: Caverns are a terrible place to get lost. The earth will swallow you. I didn’t want that to happen.
Thisalee Crow says: I’m not lost! I’m just… not sure where I am. I tried to kill you yesterday.
Rak'Symma says: You aren’t the first.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah. That makes sense.
Rak'Symma says: It’s been my life.
Thisalee Crow says: Hey. I’m… I think I… I think I might have misjudged you a bit. So. I was really young when my parents were killed with harpies, and I had some not good experiences, so I thought you were up to no good, but then the group had a bunch of demons… sometimes I make the wrong decision. What I’m trying to say is I’m sorry.
Symma looked shocked, but then chuckled quietly.
Rak'Symma says: I don’t often get an apology. So thank you.
Thisalee Crow says: I don’t often give them.
Rak'Symma says: Then I feel doubly honored. If you don’t mind, I’d like to join you? So I can get my breath.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah.
Thisalee scooched over and patted the ground.
Thisalee Crow says: I’ve not had too many opportunities to talk with a harpy without it being… so, lets just start over. Hi. I’m Thisalee Crow! And I promise I won’t try to kill you again!
Rak'Symma says: A wise decision, Miss Crow. You can call my Rak’Symma.
Thisalee Crow says: I think I will!
Rak'Symma says: And for what it’s worth I don’t get the chance to talk to many harpies either.
Thisalee Crow says: I’m starting to get that.
Rak'Symma says: I’m sorry about your parents.
Thisalee Crow says: I barely knew them. It’s okay. I was raised by some of their friends. Druids of the Talon like me. I hate to ask, but how about you?
Rak'Symma says: I was raised… differently, from most harpies. I was raised by the sky. And they took that from me.
Thisalee Crow says: I’m sorry. That’s terrible. Oh. Am I starting to cry?
She sniffled.
Thisalee Crow says: I shouldn’t have stayed up all night.
Rak'Symma says: I don’t know if there’s much I can tell you, but if you have questions, I can answer.
Thisalee Crow says: Was it the same ones? The ones that the shu’halo were talking about earlier? You paled when they mentioned the name Crawliac.
Rak'Symma says: Yes.
Thisalee Crow says: Okay.
Rak'Symma says: And now I’ve agreed to go after her and kill her with this party of demons… partially because you threw me into their laps.
Thisalee Crow says: …Yeah. I don’t know what to think about that. The satyrs in the forest are pretty far from benevolent, but, Nycia? She’ss been really nice. I don’t know. And I don’t even know what to think about that other one.
Rak'Symma says: I know as much about them as you do. They unflinchingly threw themselves into danger, though, to stop a threat. And now they are negotiating with someone I do trust.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah. It’s pretty wild.
Rak'Symma says: Any more wild than having a conversation with a harpy?
Thisalee Crow says: Good point! How about this. You’re taking the fight to the Crawliac harpies. Well, as a Druid of the Talon, it’s my duty to safeguard the creatures of the sky. They took the sky from you, so it would be irresponsible for me to not help. So in exchange for me trying to kill you and forcing you into a situation with the cemons, we work together? We can keep an eye on the others, and we can both get revenge on the people that took things from you.
Symma laughed quietly.
Rak'Symma says: Crow… raven… close enough suppose.
She smiled. Thisalee looked at the large skull on Symma’s back.
Thisalee Crow says: That skull… is it from the one that helped to raise you?
Rak'Symma says: Not just helped. He did.
Thisalee Crow says: Judging from the size, he must have been truly great.
Rak'Symma says: He was.
Thisalee Crow says: What was his name, if you don’t mind me asking?
Symma looked uncomfortable, and Thisalee immediately apologized.
Rak'Symma says: Maybe someday, but not today.
Thisalee Crow says: That’s more than fine. I guess we should find our way out of here, huh?
Rak'Symma says: This is my least favorite place to be.
Thisalee Crow says: Yeah. I never feel comfortable when I’m not under the sky.
Rak'Symma says: One more thing we have in common.
Thisalee stood up and offered a hand to Rak’Symma. The harpy took her hand and Thisalee helped her to her feet.
Thisalee Crow says: You wouldn’t happen to know how to get out, do you?
Rak'Symma says: I may have a better idea than you.
Thislaee rubbed the back of her neck bashfully.
Thisalee Crow says: After you.
They managed to find their way out, and they spied Rexxar with Misha on his shoulder. Rexxar nodded in their direction.
Rexxar says: Good. You’re back.
Rak'Symma says: Hello again.
Rexxar says: Wanted to make sure you weren’t lost. Nisha was… worried.
Nisha crooned at Rak’Symma in a way that agreed she was, but also that she wasn’t the only one. Symma patted Rexxar’s chest in gratitude.
Thisalee Crow says: Okay. Here’s the game plan. I’m going to stay up for the funeral, and then sleep until everyone is ready to go tomorrow.
Before too long, the rest of the group also got out of the caverns and headed back to Thunder Totem, and Nyxxa briefly approached Thisalee to inform her that they should talk, but she was going to give her space until Thisalee had the chance to get some sleep. Sol also thanked both Thisalee and Rak’Symma for showing up so they had the chance to help.
Symma took off so she could have some of her space away from the group.
Arthak headed over to Lantresor as Lantresor finished speaking to one of the shamans.
Arthak Saurfang says: It seems everything went as well as it could.
Lantresor says: Yes, I just finished speaking with some of the shamans. Their practices are different from ours, but their spirituality is something inspirational. I also met a curious taciturn swordsman. The same one that performed that impressive earth magic.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. Worth talking to.
Lantresor says: He is a traveler watching over his companion who is here. His name is Strongbo. I don’t think he understands our tongue. While that was not a barrier for me, that may make things complicated for you.
Arthak Saurfang says: Of course. Worthy of consideration for the future. There’s much else to focus on. Though, I have been meaning to… hm. How are you, Lantresor?
Lantresor says: I appreciate your consideration, Arthak, but I am just fine. Has something happened that would cause you to doubt that?
Arthak Saurfang says: Um. I see there’s… Um. The… what happened with Nyxxa and Altruis at the Repose. I have never seen you as one given to jealousy, but I thought I should make sure you were alright about that.
Lantresor says: I do not understand why you think I would be jealous. I must admit I have been concerned for her. She’s been more distant than she normally would be since that circumstance. I have been thinking of speaking to her. Seeing if she needed guidance. I am worried for her. The things on this island are unfolding rapidly. She’s strong for handling them with grace.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. Yes she is. Very strong. Lan… brother. You, uh… ancestors why am I… Um… So your relationship with Nyxxa…
Lantresor blushed.
Lantresor says: I… had not realized you were aware of…
He cleared his throat.
Lantresor says: Any of the private time the two of us had spent together.
Arthak Saurfang says: It was not my intention. I did not go seeking it out. I respect your privacy, I just happened to… find out.
Lantresor says: I’m not upset. I’m simply–
Arthak Saurfang says: Good.
Lantresor says: I am…
He cleared his throat again.
Lantresor says: I am under the impression that she… has been a close and wonderful friend of mine, but I do not think that is something she would desire with someone like me. We have spoken of her nature. It is simply an expression of her existence, one that I am admittedly less adept in than others…
Arthak Saurfang says: Okay. One second, wait. Someone like you. Clarify.
Lantresor says: I’m… I suppose I’m not sure how to explain it. I’ve never… hmph. This is a strange inversion, Arthak, of how our conversations go.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m aware.
Lantresor says: I’m not certain I’m enjoying it.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m sure, yes.
Lantresor says: My journey has been long and complex. Of the things I have seen myself as in my life, there have been many. A student. A teacher. A blademaster. A craftsman. A man of peace, a man of war, a man of philosophy, but a man of… of love is not something I’ve ever considered in my life. I would find it difficult to believe that anyone would be able to see me in such a light, even if I’m certain dae’lavozagh does not.
Arthak lit a cigar.
Arthak Saurfang says: Ancestors save us all… okay. Okay. Lantresor.
Lantresor says: Yes, Arthak?
Arthak Saurfang says: Normally I would be right in saying that I am truly the last person in this or any world to advise you on these matters.
Lantresor says nothing.
Arthak Saurfang says: You are family to me. You are my kin. You are one of the kindest, wisest, most patient, and most infuriating in an enriching way that I’ve had the privilege to know. For someone to see you in such a way is a sign of wisdom on their point. Lantresor, do you see Nyxxa as someone that possesses wisdom?
Lantresor was quiet for a very, very long moment. His attempts to say something were quashed by a lack of words.
Lantresor says: …Perhaps I… should check up on her.
Arthak Saurfang says: Perhaps you should. Before you do, take advice that I am qualified to give, and know exactly what you want. Then find it. You deserve that. That is an order.
Lantresor says: As you say, Warchief. As you say.
Arthak Saurfang says: It’s also an order to never put me in a position to give this advice again.
Arthak turned to leave.
Lantresor says: I can assure you one thing, Arthak, I have no intention of allowing something like this to happen again.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good.
Zar’Kaa, meanwhile, had set out to find Torok Bloodtotem at the Bloodtotem camp. The warriors there immediately stopped him.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: What do you think you’re doing? You aren’t welcome here, outsider.
Zar'Kaa says: Be that as it may, I was hoping to speak to your chieftain.
The warrior laughed openly and bumped his fellow, who also started laughing.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: You just think you can ask for an audience? As an outsider?
Zar'Kaa says: An outsider who just helped all of your people. Yes. I do.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: Yes, you did help save Thunder Totem. But if Bloodtotem was in charge of the city, such a security breach would have never happened. If you’re hoping that’s going to win you an audience, then you have no idea who you are dealing with. Let me give you a piece of advice. Turn around and go back to your own camp.
Zar'Kaa says: I think I’m good right here. I’ll wait.
The warriors looked at each other, then looked at Zar’Kaa.
Zar'Kaa says: Oh, sorry, does this spiel normally work? Because it doesn’t impress me. I was hoping we could talk like adults and you could get over some things. If you’re ready to start doing that, here I am.
At that moment, Sol had walked by.
Sol'chi says: Hello. Bloodtotem, right? What’s going on here?
The warrior frowned at Sol.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: Nothing that concerns you, calf. Run along back to your mother.
Sol'chi says: She’s unfortunately no longer with us.
There was a moment of pause as the other warrior elbowed his fellow in the ribs and scolded him for happening upon a sensitive topic.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: Regardless. You aren’t welcome here.
Sol'chi says: If it would be alright, we have some things to talk to the chieftain about.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: Why should I do that?
Sol'chi says: We have similar interests. I think he’d like to hear what we have to say. Please.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: Where are you from, kid? What tribe?
Sol'chi says: I didn’t grow up with other tauren… so. That’s why I can do this.
Sol did a small arcane magic trick, and the two warriors spoke to each other briefly.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: You’re just some kid.
Sol'chi says: Yes. And I helped defend too. Were you inside when I… it’s fine.
The warrior sighed.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: Fine. I’ll let the chieftain sort you two out.
He loomed over Zar’Kaa.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: And you had better watch that tongue. Torok will rip it out of your mouth.
Sol'chi says: He’s right, you do get angry very easily.
The other warrior chuckled.
Zar'Kaa says: …Thanks.
Bloodtotem Warrior says: He’s at the center of the enclave. Go there and get out. Got it?
Sol'chi says: Thank you!
Zar'Kaa says: We’ll be quick.
Zar’Kaa switched to orcish.
Zar'Kaa says: Mind if I take the lead?
Sol'chi says: Yeah. I really didn’t wnat to talk to him, I’m just helping you get in.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. Thanks. Don’t make an ass out of me next time, yeah?
Sol'chi says: I mean, you already did yourself. Lets just go talk to him, yeah?
Zar'Kaa says: …Yeah.
They headed across the suspension bridge to the enclave. They were brought to a wide meeting chamber with a large firepit. There was a communal meal going on, and all the eyes turned to them. Torok was partially wearing some ceremonial paint for the funeral of Ulan, and he seemed to have been in the process of getting ready.
Torok Bloodtotem says: So you’re the ones who my braves saw fit to allow in, because they, let me get this straight, didn’t know how to deal with you. Congratulations, you have my attention. Now talk, and make it quick, before my decision results in a one way trip to the Earthmother.
Sol'chi says: What’s the Earthmother?
Torok squinted at Sol.
Torok Bloodtotem says: Are you serious, calf?
Zar'Kaa says: He’s not from another tribe.
Torok Bloodtotem says: I’m not here to tutor you on spiritualism. If you want that, find spiritwalker Ebonhorn horn.
Sol'chi says: Great idea!
Zar'Kaa says: We came here to discuss something else. It won’t take long. Your words with Mayla, Torok, what is it you were trying to do?
Torok Bloodtotem says: I thought that was clear, outsider. It was a challenge.
Zar'Kaa says: A challenge for the seat as Highmountain chieftain?
Torok Bloodtotem says: A long time ago, before you or I were around. Our people were hte strongest. We were the bulwark. The first contact. The skydancers, the fishlovers, and the mountaindwellers. They lived in peace because we kept the dangers at bay. Dangers from groups such as, for example, the Zandalari empire. We were the strongest. We are the strongest. There is one exception, and that was Huln Highmountain. I’m not fool enough to disrespect his name, but he’s been dead for ten thousand years. My words were clear. If Mayla is going to lead Highmountain and defend it from incursions, then she had best have the strength to do so.
Zar'Kaa says: Like you do?
Torok raised a brow.
Zar'Kaa says: From where I stand, that was your plan. Take the moment of crisis and try to step up.
Torok’s eyes narrowed.
Zar'Kaa says: Could have worked, but I don’t think it had the intended result.
Torok Bloodtotem says: What are you implying, little troll?
Zar'Kaa says: What I’m saying is that you should have waited. Waited until Mayla had her say. Waited until Ulan’s body was no longer warm. By announcing your intentions to everyone, you tipped your hand, and in doing so, you put yourself in a corner. Now, as it stands right now, the way that I see it, you don’t remain stuck in that corner. So. I have a proposal for you. I know that you will go back to your home, and you will wait to see whether Mayla is fit to be chieftain, and I suppose you’ll also tend to your wounded and your dead. That’s all fair. While you’re doing so, me and my companions will be doing what we can to take the fight to Dargrul. Because here’s the thing, it’s not just this Crawliac that seems to have whispers into Dargrul’s ear. It’s quite possible the Legion has as well. So we have a common interest. While we help the Highmountain, the Skyhorn, the Rivermane, I’m proposing that, when you’re ready, you start to take the fight to the drogbar, and keep the offensive up. Your warriors are the strongest, according to your claim. You should be able to give them a strong fight. Keep them at bay. Making our efforts easier. By the time this comes to a head, we will all be ready. And then you may find yourself out of that corner you put yourself in. You are a chieftain. I’d rather see Highmountain united.
Torok Bloodtotem says: I’m sure you would. You seem to know everything there is to know about this place, don’t you? In your short time walking these halls. You know about me. About what I want. About how this place works. You’ve got it all figured out, don’t you? You know. Normally, I deal with upstarts like you with a long walk off a short cliff. But enough people have died. I don’t need your advice on how to run my tribe, little troll. I don’t need your advice on how to operate. And maybe, maybe that’s how you would go about things, but I don’t slink and hide my intentions. If Mayla rises to my challenge, and she proves me wrong, I’m a man of my word. But I get the sense that you don’t know what that’s like, do you? I’m not sure what you were trying to accomplish when you came here. I assume you were trying to scare me, to manipulate me, to make me think that the only way I could succeed was to march to your tune. I know what you want. You want the hammer. You want an army, the forces of Highmountain, and you want to throw us at the demons. And a Highmountain united is much more convenient of a weapon than one divided. I will not throw my braves to their deaths to fight another’s war.
Zar'Kaa says: Then what will you do?
Torok Bloodtotem says: I have no obligation to tell you that, little troll.
Zar'Kaa says: No. I suppose not. But as it stands right now, since you’re a man of your words, that’s all this is. Actions always speak louder. And this is what I base my words off of. I’m giving you a way out. Whether you want to take it is up to you.
Torok Bloodtotem says: A way out.
It was clear Torok was not amused.
Zar'Kaa says: At this rate. Besides the harsh words, the bloodthirst, what else are your people going to offer?
Torok Bloodtotem says: The only way I want you to show me right now, is the way you leave my camp. And if you deign to follow anyone to Torok’s Bluff, you best watch that mouth of yours. That’s my domain. Not Thunder Totem. The laws and tragedies of this place will not save you. Get out of my sight.
Sol'chi says: Before we go, I wanted to give you a word of warning!
Torok looked at Sol.
Sol'chi says: The demons are here on Azeroth. The sliver of power given to the orcs rotted them until there wasn’t much left. They broke away. A rare occurrence. The demons are on this island, so be wary of any power someone might offer.
Torok Bloodtotem says: You mean like what your companion just did? I’m aware of the dangers, strange little calf. When the demons come, the Bloodtotem will be ready. Only time will tell if Highmountain will stand, and if Mayla will be strong enough to ensure it does. Out with the both of you.
Sol'chi says: Right! Thank you for the audience. Be safe and–
Torok Bloodtotem shouts: Out!
Sol'chi says: Right!
Zar'Kaa says: Sleep on it.
Torok had already started to leave, and Zar’Kaa walked away too.
Sol'chi says: Come on, Zar’Kaa, this way.
They stepped off a cliff and Sol used [Feather Fall] to ensure they fell safely to mess with the warriors.
Arthak found Mayla getting ready with her own regalia, but she was happy to meet with Arthak in one of the meeting chambers. She greets him as Warchief Arthak Saurfang.
Arthak Saurfang says: Arthak, is fine. The title is of importance, but it is just a title.
Mayla Highmountain says: I understand that more than many might.
Arthak Saurfang says: That is why I wanted to speak with you.
Mayla Highmountain says: How do you mean?
Arthak Saurfang says: You have spoken to people you know and people you trust what lies before you. The path that you have been thrust upon.
Mayla Highmountain says: I have, yes.
Arthak Saurfang says: I wanted to speak with you because… my path is not the same of yours, but they are similar.
Mayla Highmountain says: Is that so?
Arthak Saurfang says: From what I know. Little as that is.
Mayla Highmountain says: Well, if you have advice, I’m all ears.
Arthak Saurfang says: I do.
Mayla Highmountain says: This has happened rather fast, and I feel the wind is being stolen from my lungs. Like no matter what I do, I can’t keep up. I’m trying to run as fast as I can, but I still feel like a calf trying to keep up with my father.
She shook her head.
Mayla Highmountain says: And now I am oversharing to a stranger.
Arthak Saurfang says: No. That will not go away.
Mayla Highmountain says: The feeling, or the tendency to overshare with strangers?
She chuckled.
Arthak Saurfang says: The feeling. I cannot speak to the sharing, but the feeling does not go away. It will always be too fast, and it will always feel too soon. The man who was warchief before me, when I killed him, his last words to me… he asked if I was ready.
Mayla Highmountain says: Hm. No pressure, at least.
Arthak Saurfang says: No pressure. And the answer was no. So, truthfully, are you ready?
Mayla Highmountain says: I don’t think so. I don’t think I can be.
Arthak Saurfang says: That will not go away either.
Mayla Highmountain says: I must say, Arthak, your advice is not inspiring, truthful and hard as it is. How do you keep going then?
Arthak Saurfang says: A lot of it is because I have to. Because I am needed to. That gives me strength, as I believe it will give you strength. And also because I have found, that with the right people at your side, when you are too tired to keep running, they will carry you until you are ready again.
Mayla smiled.
Mayla Highmountain says: You surround yourself with boon companions.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. And I, frankly, am not the sole leader of the Horde. I am one of three. But that is how we work now. And that is still new. But however it is done, this leading, it is always too much. Our hands are not big enough for it. You will make mistakes. You will make terrible mistakes. And you will have to live with that, and you have to keep moving. That is what this is, and that is what it would have been for your father, I have no doubt. Or any that do this. However wise or great a leader is seen to be, it is always that. If they are worthy of it, that is the mark of it.
Mayla Highmountain says: You are incredibly wise, Arthak. How old are you?
Arthak Saurfang says: I’ve seen 26 summers.
Mayla Highmountain says: I can only imagine… how hard your life has been. But your wisdom is… I think exactly what I needed to hear right now.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m glad.
Mayla Highmountain says: I’m grateful this burden is not mine alone. All the chieftains bear the responsibilities to guide our people, but as high chieftain as Highmountain, it falls to me to settle disputes, and to maintain peace between the tribes. But… I don’t have to do it alone, on that you’re right. And I think I’ll probably need to have that told to me plenty more times.
Arthak Saurfang says: if I am any indication, then yes. Many, many times. Chieftain Bloodtotem. I do not know the man, obviously. So might I ask what you think of him and the doubts he raised? The challenge, I think is more apt.
Mayla Highmountain says: He is a proud warrior. Their tribe hails from some of the greatest tauren that had ever lived on Highmountain. Indeed, alone, their numbers are the greatest, and their warriors the fiercest. He has every right to doubt me, as I’m sure his father doubted my father. I’m not offended by his words, by his challenge. Indeed, it showed me that this would not be an easy transition. Not for me or anyone else. It shouldn’t be. I am untested. I have faced opponents, but they are a fraction of the number of Torok’s. Were in walking in his hooves, perhaps I would have reacted the same. But I will not take the challenge lightly. I will rise to it. It won’t be easy, but I will manage, and I will convince him and the Bloodtotem that we need them as much as they need us. Because you’re right, Highmountain needs to stand united. I need strong people who can carry me when I falter. And stubborn and crass as he can sometimes be, Torok is one of the greatest amongst us. We would be weaker without him. So Earthmother willing, I’ll rise to his challenge.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good. And wise. Keep him close. He does remind me of someone I know. Likewise crass, frustrating, and stubborn, and I am grateful every day for it.
Mayla Highmountain says: It is people like him who keep you humble.
Arthak Saurfang says: And there are many because of their kindness or respect will not say their truth. The ones that will are priceless.
Mayla Highmountain says: This is… perhaps unfair of me to ask. But when the time comes for me to answer Torok’s challenge, I would be glad to have you and your companions with me.
Arthak Saurfang says: I cannot speak for them, though I believe their response would be much the same as mine. My answer is yes.
Mayla Highmountain says: Well. regardless of what happens, know that I appreciate it. And thank you for coming to speak with me about this. I think your words have helped me a lot, even if there are just as many questions as there may have been.
Arthak Saurfang says: That too will not change.
Mayla Highmountain says: I figured. If half your Horde have the integrity of you, Arthak, I hope our people will continue to have a flourishing relationship. Even if the seas divide us.
Arthak Saurfang says: I hope that as well. That is part of my purpose as warchief.
Mayla Highmountain says: Making allies and forming connections is an important part.
Arthak Saurfang says: It is.
Mayla Highmountain says: Well. I suppose I should make an extra offering to the Earthmother this evening, as thanks for guiding you here to us. Without you and Rak’Symma and everyone else, many more lives would have been lost.
Arthak Saurfang says: I have seen a city burn once. More than enough.
Mayla nodded.
Arthak Saurfang says: Extend my thanks to your Earthmother as well. She has been a gracious host.
Mayla Highmountain says: I will. And I hope she watches over all of your people as you continue your own journey.
Arthak Saurfang says: Indeed.
Mayla Highmountain says: I will see you at the ceremony.
Arthak Saurfang says: And we will pay respects to a great man.
Mayla nodded. Arthak turned to leave, but stopped.
Arthak Saurfang says: One more piece of advice, if you would have it.
Mayla Highmountain says: I’ll give any you can give, Arthak.
Arthak Saurfang says: Your father… and the legacies above you that you carry. They set an expectation. Do not let that define you.
Mayla furrowed her brow.
Mayla Highmountain says: I will… try not to.
Arthak Saurfang says: Your own shadow is a worthy enough one to cast.
Arthak nodded and exited the meeting chamber. Mayla stood where she was for a long moment until one of the older tauren called to her to continue her preparations.
Rak’Symma had gone off on her flight to cool down. She had spent some time with the eagles and they had exchanged feathers as a means of bonding and kinship. There were a handful of mother eagles that she had interacted with, who were lamenting their chicks were unable to sleep. They had been plagued by nightmares and frequently awoke in the middle of the night crying for their mothers. Despite the fact the mother eagles were there, they still cried, and claimed their mother was in trouble. They didn’t understand.
One of the eagles described the air as stagnant, and they warned Rak’Symma to fly low, as they feared there was a storm they didn’t understand that was coming. Another eagle countered it was just the coming winter, but Symma was left feeling uneasy.
Symma had returned to Thunder Totem to help with preparations for the service, and she heard a voice that was familiar to her, but she couldn’t picture how or why. When she looked over, she saw an unfamiliar humanoid girl that seemed to be of the same species as the swordsman known as Strongbo. She was more spry and she had a thick winter coat around her shoulders. She had a bug-catching net with some strange baubles and a drinking gourd on it, as well as a wide hat on her back. The figure was waving at Symma specifically, who tilted her head at the figure.
Pandaren Woman says: Hey! You’re the one from earlier, aren’t you?
Rak'Symma says: Do I know you?
Pandaren Woman says: Not officially! I ran into you during the quakes. You were zipping around helping and I got in your way. I just wanted to apologize. It seems I didn’t make much of an impact!
Rak'Symma says: My apologies, my thoughts were elsewhere.
Pandaren Woman says: I’m sorry for what happened. I understand your tattoos signify you as a friend.
Rak'Symma says: That’s right.
Pandaren Woman says: I’ve encountered harpies, but never any as benevolent and graceful as you. Besides the ones from my homeland.
Rak'Symma says: What?
Pandaren Woman says: Sorry, my manners! Li Li Stormstout!
Rak'Symma says: Rak’Symma. You spoke to other harpies?
Li Li Stormstout says: A few!
Rak'Symma says: They didn’t threaten to feast on your entrails or weigh your eyeballs on a string?
Li Li Stormstout says: They did! Though I heard of tribes of harpies that would not! I’m unsure if they are around.
Rak'Symma says: Not here.
Li Li Stormstout says: At home they have tales of flights in places where our ancestors came from! Beautiful dancers and handmaidens of GiGi, the August Celestial! That’s what the stories say! They dance with the sunlight and plumage of beautiful colors! I was shocked the first harpies I met abroad weren’t like that.
Rak'Symma says: No it’s best to yield to caution here on the isle. What stories do they tell?
Li Li Stormstout says: Many! Pandaria has been lost for a long time. But my ancestors left a long time ago. I grew up on a place called the Wandering Isle. There were no such creatures there. But back when I was a child, they would tell stories of the homeland. The August Celestials are amazing creature! GiGi is the crimson crane, and it was said he’s attended to by a group of creatures that resemble harpies. Like you! Though different.
Symma’s brow knitted.
Li Li Stormstout says: They may just be fairytales. Most of the stories taken away from Pandaria are thousands of years old.
Rak'Symma says: They would have to be.
Li Li Stormstout says: One day I hope to return though! See how the land has changed and if our people are still there.
Rak'Symma says: With the wind to guide you, I hope that can happen.
Li Li Stormstout says: I’m sure it will! Maybe you’ll be able to visit someday as well, if you want to meet them.
Rak'Symma says: Perhaps someday, but my work here is not done.
Li Li Stormstout says: I see that. I’m sure your journey will take you far, and for as long as you go, I hope your ancestors watch out for you.
Rak'Symma says: I always have one on my back.
Li Li looked over Symma’s shoulder.
Li Li Stormstout says: Wow. You weren’t kidding!
Rak'Symma says: I speak fairly literally.
Li Li Stormstout says: Nothing wrong with that! Things are a lot easier if you say what you are thinking. Sometimes Bo says my mouth can get me in trouble, but dancing around subjects doesn’t make sense.
Rak'Symma says: It leaves more room for lies.
Li Li Stormstout says: I agree! The people here are wonderful though. They’re so kind.
Rak'Symma says: They are some of the kindest people I know.
Li Li got a wistful look on her face.
Rak'Symma says: Seems you have something on your mind.
Li Li Stormstout says: I’ve been searching for my uncle Chen. He’s a traveler like me. I left the island to find him, as he did so long ago. I haven’t been able to yet, but I know he’s close.
Rak'Symma says: Am I correct to assume he looks like you?
Li Li Stormstout says: Yes! Much bigger though. In both ways!
Rak'Symma says: Does he have domain over the earth?
Li Li Stormstout says: Oh no! That’s Strongbo. He’s a friend. He was sent by my father to bring me home, but I said I wasn’t going until I find Uncle Chen. So now he’s following me around. But it’s nice to have company. I’ve made many friends! I actually came with ssome here. They came to an amazing fortress on the shore! They said it was the home of a militia that fought the demons. They said it was haunted. I figured I’d return when the ghosts were less angry.
Symma was impressed by how little fear Li Li had. Nyxxa had overheard the conversation as she passed by.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Ah, you mean the Hold?
Li Li Stormstout says: You know of it?
Nyxxa put a finger over her mouth and briefly showed her eyes.
Li Li Stormstout says: You’re like them!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I am one of them. I hope they were hospitable.
Li Li Stormstout says: They were! I traveled with them. It’s been so wonderful to see this land! So many wonders and beautiful sights! And I’ve heard rumors that folk had seen someone that looked like Bo! I don’t know for certain, but I like to think it may be Uncle Chen. I’m looking for him. You may have already heard that.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: We only got here a few days ago.
Li Li Stormstout says: Wow. And you made it this far?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: That’s thanks to…
She gestured to Symma.
Li Li Stormstout says: Wow! You must be powerful! I’ve only seen powerful wizards and druids and shamans do that.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: She did say she was gifted.
Rak'Symma says: I said I had many gifts. But thank you.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Apologies! But pardon my interruption.
Li Li Stormstout says: It’s fine! My name is Li Li! Li Li Stormstout!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: My name is Nyxxa, but here it’s Nycia. The tauren people have a history with… the magic we wield.
Li Li Stormstout says: Don’t worry, your secret is safe with me!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I appreciate it.
Li Li Stormstout says: If our paths cross again, maybe we can share stories! And if you see uncle Chen, tell him I’m looking for him!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I will. In these regions your people seem to be more notable than others.
Li Li Stormstout says: If you are at the fortress, maybe once we find Uncle Chen, we can make our way back and tell you of all the places we found!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I would like that very much.
Rak'Symma says: Li Li, do me a favor. Tread these isle with caution, and if you see anything that looks like this…
She gives a small, ramshackled, dream-catcher sized totem.
Rak'Symma says: Turn away and walk the other direction.
Li Li Stormstout says: What are they?
Rak'Symma says: They mark the territories of harpies, and they are not kind.
Li Li nodded.
Li Li Stormstout says: I’ll take your advice! But if it does help ease your mind, I certainly know how to handle myself in a scrap!
Rak'Symma says: I believe you–
Li Li Stormstout says: Back home they would call me the Mad Dog! I wear it like a badge of pride now. I think it was because I beat my brother up. It’s not my fault I’m better than him.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: What arts do you practice?
Li Li Stormstout says: The martial arts of my people. I practice the way of the jade dragon, though Bo is a practitioner of the black ox. Different arts inspired by the AUgust Celestials, great beings that protected Pandaria. Though they haven’t been seen since… ever. We still practice the martial arts they trained us in so long ago.
Nyxxa’s eyes glitter.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Are they akin to the wild gods?
Rak'Symma says: Sounds like that to me. She should meet druids.
Li Li Stormstout says: I have! I spent a short time in Timbermaw Hold and there were druids there. One was a man named Broll, and another was named Ariesera, I believe. I think she was a dragon. There was also Seria and Tol’vas too!
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: You met Broll?
Li Li Stormstout says: Yes! He was on the ship he came on.
They spend some time praising Broll.
Li Li Stormstout says: As for these wild gods, I don’t know. I’ll have to meet them, and the August Celestials, to find out! It’s been my dream to meet Yu-lon someday.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Safe travels then.
Li Li Stormstout says: To you as well! I hope our paths cross again!
Nyxxa also asked if Li Li would like to spar a bit sometime, and Li Li eagerly agreed as Strongbo and she were planning on staying for a few days to make sure everyone was alright. She was doing her part to cheer spirits and take care of the wounded. Li Li bid goodbye, and bounded off. Nyxxa took the opportunity to check in on Symma.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I know it’s not my place, but are you doing alright?
Rak'Symma says: In honesty? No. But Mayla and Ebonhorn come first. Anything I can say comes later.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: That’s reasonable. But from what I have gathered of them, they would want you to be okay too.
Rak'Symma says: Like most things, that will just take time.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Of course. You don’t have any reason to trust me, nor do I expect you to, but if there’s anything I can do to help, I’d like to. Even if it’s just not being here right now.
Symma had started to get defensive, and she exhales.
Rak'Symma says: It’s not the deception that’s upset me. But I can’t put into words right now why you’ve upset me so.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: I see.
Rak'Symma says: So I think it best we give Mayla her night, then we readdress this in the morning.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Of course. Take the time you need. I will keep my distance.
Symma nodded and headed off to see what else she could do. Rexxar approached Nyxxa not long after.
Rexxar says: You spoke with that girl?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Yes.
Rexxar says: Who is she?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Li Li.
Rexxar says: What is she doing?
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Looking for her uncle.
Rexxar says: Hm. I will keep an eye out.
Nyxxa smiled warmly and nodded, and as Rexxar turned away, Nyxxa saw Misha hanging on his back.
As the group had started to make their way to the site of the funeral, everyone was waiting for the sun to fully go down. They found Ebonhorn, and Sol asked a bit about the Earthmother.
Ebonhorn says: You know. This may be an interesting opportunity. I’m on my way to occupy the calves. Some of them may be required to stay up later than they normally would be, so it falls on me to keep them entertained. Perhaps the stories I was planning on telling them would be of interest to you as well?
Sol agreed, and he and a smattering of the rest of the party followed him to where the calves were gathered. Arthak sat down with the kids, a notebook in hand, as did Sol. A baby tauren looked up at Arthak, and Arthak nodded before redirecting his attention to Ebonhorn. Rak’Symma perched nearby. Nyxxa was still keeping her distance.
Ebonhorn says: Alright, everyone. I’m here to spin a tale, one to occupy your young hearts and minds while we prepare for the ceremony.
Ebonhorn sprinkled incense into the fire.
Ebonhorn says: Today I will tell you the story of the Earthmother’s first dream.
Ebonhorn dropped sand into the fire, and it turned green.
Ebonhorn says: In the dawn of time, before our people, there was only darkness.. The Earthmother slumbered, cold and quiet. Not a shu’halo walked her surface. The creatures that crawled on their bellies were very different.
Sol raised his hand.
Ebonhorn says: Yes, Sol?
Sol'chi says: What’s a shu’halo?
The other tauren looked at him incredulously.
Zar'Kaa whispers: You are.
Ebonhorn says: Now now, young souls. There is no foolish question. Shu’halo is the name bestowed upon us by the Earthmother. You are shu’halo. In that time of darkness, the world was everchanging. The creatures upon it thrived in the shadow, and they knew not An’she’s warmth or Mu’sha’s grace.
The flames turned jet black.
Ebonhorn says: But, from this, the Earthmother slumbered still. In her slumber, she felt the crawling of the beasts upon her skin, the swimming of the fish in the ocean, for a time, this frightened her. She could not see the creatures, so her slumbering mind raced with fear. Was it a devious fiend? A monster most foul? It was hard to say. But she feared this darkness. A part of her was also curious. That fear and curiosity wove together in her mind, and as it did, the surface of the world waged with vicious storms. The sky opened, revealing streaks of vibrant lightning, and the seas churned. The mountains disgorged their fire on all that lived beneath! And the Earthmother herself creaked and groaned with fear. But deep within that nightmare was a single spark of hope. And within that spark of hope emerged forth a manifestation of that love and warmth. We call him An’she, her first son.
There were some sounds from the young tauren.
Ebonhorn says: His strength did not come along. Like all things, day and night came together. So with the strength of An’she warming the surface during the day, his luminous sister, Mu’sha, joined him in the sky. The twin children of the Earthmother. And in their light, the shadows were dispersed, and the creatures revealed. In time, her fears were washed away. An’she and Mu’sha, the twin children of the Earthmother, grew into themselves. No longer were they a young spark of flame and speck of stardust. Soon, they became one with the world and the elements. An’she befriended the earth and the fire, and with them he forged great wonders. Great weapons and tools with which to shape the earth, and with which to mark his mother with artwork of his love. Mu’sha befriended the wind and waters. The waters danced at her command in an elegant performance as a testament to her love, for the Earthmother and all that walker her surface. The two of them were close. Rivals and allies as they are, one would often chase the other. An’she with his great blades, and Mu’sha with her hunter’s bow. The days and the nights came from their games, as one chases the other. In time, we came to walk the earth. An’she’s warmth guided our hearts and souls. He gave us the gift of fire, taught us how to craft tools and build our homes and weapons. Mu’sha watched over us and guarded us from the dark things that walked in the nights in her perpetual vigil. But in time, the twins became too powerful, and their strength began to wear upon the Earthmother. So in time, the Earthmother slumbered once again, needing her rest. Shaping the world and giving life to its bounties, is a tiring endeavor. As I’m sure you all know! After all, how many of you get tired from fetching water? One can only imagine how tiring it would be to be a mother of creation. This is why it’s important to respect your mothers!
There was some laughter and agreement from the tauren.
Ebonhorn says: But she wanted to keep her children close. She pressed them into her eyes, and that was when the seasons were first born. While once the Earthmother brought bountiful harvest, now An’she and Mu’sha shared every sunrise and sunset. An’she brings life and hope to the harvest, while Mu’sha brings the cold of winter and reminds us the importance of life, and shows us the gift of the new spring by her brother’s power. Her eyes now watch over us, even now.
He looked up at the setting sun and the moon that had appeared.
Ebonhorn says: Gifting the weather, the elements, and the harvest, and each of our blessed days. Even now, the Earthmother slumbers, knowing the world is in good hands, now that her children watch over all creation. Guiding us through the seasons of each generation. Someday even those of your children!
There were some snickers and then some clapping as Ebonhorn finished his story.
Arthak Saurfang says: A tale well told, Spiritwalker.
Ebonhorn smiled.
Ebonhorn says: It is a truncated version, and one that is more palatable to the children. I don’t wish to give them nightmares. Our true history goes deeper.
Zar'Kaa says: Undoubtedly. But still a good tale. How could you give this little guy a nightmare?
Zar’Kaa was bouncing a baby tauren on his lap, who snorted up in his face.
Ebonhorn says: But they are true, even if the true tale is more harrowing. But spinning such tales on a day like this would be for ill. Perhaps someday I can regale you with the full story. There is a fair bit more… blood involved.
Sol'chi says: Thank you for the story you did tell us.
Rak'Symma says: Perhaps we let the Earthmother keep her eyes.
Ebonhorn says: It is too late for that. But it is by An’she and Mu’sha that we can experience a beautiful sunset like this.
Zar'Kaa says: I have a question. I understand this Earthmother exists the way that your people understand her, but what does it feel like? Having her with you?
Ebonhorn says: It is the feel of the sun on your skin. I am not a seer. I do not commune directly with An’she or Mu’sha. But the Earthmother is the origin of everything. It is to feel warmth. It is to feel comfort. My experience may be different, and yet… all children of this world walk amongst the Earthmother’s bounty. It’s feeling depends on how one perceives it. One may take comfort, one may take caution. Beware the deep places of the earth is a warning for a reason. The Earthmother is a place of joy and danger. Of light and darkness. But in the same way as each of us.
Zar'Kaa says: Her shadows extend as long as her son.
Ebonhorn says: In a sense, yes. There is another aspect of the tale.
The kids had fully dispersed at this point.
Ebonhorn says: It is said that after the Earthmother slumbered, there were some of the shu’halo that turned away from An’she’s light and accepted darkness in their hearts. They became terrible monsters. They warred against those who basked in An’she’s light. But they did not do so unscathed. The light of the dawn and the beautiful colors above are said to be the ever-bleeding wounds of An’she to herald in the coming of the dawn, and the encroachment of darkness.
Arthak Saurfang says: The sun bleeds as it sets.
Ebonhorn says: Mu’sha attempted to bind her brother’s wounds, but it is a wound he wears with pride.
Zar'Kaa says: Some wounds are worth it.
Ebonhorn says: The cycle continues to this day. Though the Earthmother slumbers once again, using her own might to contain the darkness, she gifted upon them a child of their own. A younger brother, so to speak, to guide and to nurture. We call him Lo’sho, the lesser blue moon that sometimes graces our sky. Our ancestors are said to flock to his light. The yeena'e, those who herald the dawn. They are his teachers and students, along with An’she and Mu’sha, the sun and the moon. Even now they are vigilant against the darkness, that which the Earthmother took into herself to save her people. To prevent them from falling to the same temptation as the shu’halo so long ago. A darkness that I am all too familiar with…
Ebonhorn got a faraway look for a moment.
Ebonhorn says: But, these are our tales. There are many, but we would be here for a long time if I regaled you with them. We have a rich tradition of tales, and as spiritwalker, it’s important to ensure that the youth learn them, and carry them upon their own hearts.
Sol'chi says: You said the Earthmother was scared there may be nefarious fiends upon her?
Ebonhorn says: Yes. the uncertainty of darkness affected even she in the dawn of creation.
Sol'chi says: Well. I’m hoping we can keep those fiends off her.
Ebonhorn says: There are a great many dangers the world must contend with, but I wager you are more away of some than many others.
Sol'chi says: Yes. This has given me many things to think about. Thank you, Ebonhorn, I’ll see you at the ceremony.
Arthak Saurfang says: Spiritwalker, there is no need tonight. There are enough burdens tonight. But later, I would like to speak with you more about the deep places.
Ebornhorn swallowed, then nodded.
Ebonhorn says: Of course. Whatever knowledge i have is yours.
Arthak Saurfang says: I appreciate that. And you said there were seers that commune with the Earthmother?
Ebonhorn says: Many shamans do, like myself, though some have affinity for other elements.
Arthak Saurfang says: Much like my own people.
Ebonhorn says: The seers seek to understand the meaning of the strs in the sky. The whispers and patterns of An’she, the dances and the tears of Mu’sha.
Arthak Saurfang says: I see. If I could, and if it would not be an overstep as one very new to your lands, part of my purpose is to build understanding with peoples outside the Horde. Beyond that, I find these things fascinating.
Ebonhorn says: I had a feeling you might. I could perhaps introduce you to a seer during your time here. One who has a more intimate knowledge of their own faith.
Arthak Saurfang says: I would appreciate that. I would like to know more about the practices you do, as one who communes in your way with the earth itself.
Ebonhorn says: My own experiences are… unique. But I will gladly tell you what I know.
Arthak Saurfang says: Having found myself and my people here, I believe it would be good to introduce ourselves to our adopted mother, I guess you could say.
Ebonhorn says: The Earthmother’s love is not only for those born here. At least, that’s what I would want to believe.
Arthak Saurfang says: Then she is deserving of thanks. I would like to do that.
Ebonhorn says: We have much to speak about.
Ebonhorn bid his farewell so he could go and finish preparations for the ceremony.
Soon, a tauren with a deep, bellowing voice announced it was time for the rite to commence. The group was led up to the peak of Thunder Totem along with the others gathered. There was a rather large crowd, including all the chieftains. Mayla had a gorgeous headdress of eagle feathers on her head, with her spear in hand. She had paint on her face, and painted upon her leathers.
Ebonhorn was up with the other spiritwalkers, most of which had white fur. It was believed that tauren with white fur were omens of great change, and many of them took the path of the spiritwalker. Ebonhorn stepped forward, and suspended on a wooden scaffolding and wrapped in an ornate wicker casket, was Ulan’s body.
Ebonhorn says [taur-ahe]: Sons, daughters, and children of Highmountain, we have experienced a great tragedy here in Thunder Totem. We have lost many lives this day, and the coming days will be filled with sorrow and grief. We are gathered here to pay our respects to the first of the many brave and noble souls that were lost. Our chieftain, Ulan Highmountain. Respected is he by all of the clans. A leader. A father. A friend. Though he is no longer among us, his spirit will watch over us. He joins the ancestors that swirl in the sky above us, our guiding lights dancing in An’she’s light, and in Mu’sha’s grace. His strength will be in our every step as we move forward. As Mayla guides us through this grief, and to a greater tomorrow, and along with all the shu’halo of Highmountain. The Rivermane. The Bloodtotem. The Skyhorn.
He went through many other tribes.
Ebonhorn says [taur-ahe]: We are united in our love, our grief, and our strength.
Ebonhorn stepped back, and Mayla stepped forward next.
Mayla Highmountain says [taur-ahe]: I would invite all of the chieftains here today to pay their last respects to my beloved father.
The chieftains of the various tribes stepped forward and, one by one, they went through their last respects before the wicker wrapped tauren. Then Mayla stepped forward and smudged a bit of crimson warpaint from her cheek and drew a single symbol. It was the symbol for thank you, laid upon her father. She stepped back, and Lasan Skyhorn stepped forward. He whistled, and there was a beating of wings as a flight of eagles landed nearby. Lasan and other eagle riders stepped up and tied the wicker casket to the legs of the eagles.
Ebonhorn says [taur-ahe]: Ulan, we send you know, to the Sepulcher of the Sky, to join the beasts of the earth and the winds. That your laughter and your voice might reach us.
The great eagles started to beat their wings and took off with the casket and started to fly off toward the northwestern mountains.
Ebonhorn says [taur-ahe]: Go now, brother of Highmountain. Go with An’she one last time.
As the sun finished setting, they could see the eagles, and the casket, silhouetted before it.
Arthak stepped beside Mayla with a hand on her shoulder. He put a piece of parchment in her hand, and then nodded. She looked down at it as Arthak walked away.
Though he goes where we cannot follow
He is ever on our horizon
Though his words cannot reach us
His wisdom is ever in our ear
Though we cannot feel him
His strength carries us forward
Though he is gone from our sight
His memory is bright as the dawn
Though he is far away
He will never truly be gone
She then looked back at Arthak with clear appreciation as tears started to stream down her face. She held the parchment to her heart and looked back to the horizon.
Zar’Kaa took out his spear and flintstone and lit a torch with which to perform a quiet, solemn motion of respect. He then set the torch where it could be used and then approached Mayla and held her hand briefly.
Zar'Kaa says: If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that no one is ever truly gone. Nor is your father.
Mayla smiled, afraid to say anything lest her veneer cracked.
Mayla Highmountain says: I know.
Nyxxa stood quietly watching the scene with Levia. Sol gave Nyxxa a pat on he shoulder then went to talk up to Mayla.
Sol'chi says: Wish a could have known him better, but he seemed like a good man, and from what I’ve seen of you, I think he’s going to be cheering you on. If you aim for success, you’ll find it.
Mayla Highmountain says: I’ll have to do something worthy of him cheering then. I’ll have to give him a good show.
Sol'chi says: Darn right. I’ve only been here for a day, but I’ve enjoyed your home and your people. I hope to learn more.
Mayla Highmountain says: I hope so too.
Sol'chi says: You got this, Mayla.
Sol backed away.
Symma had approached to tie an offering of eagle feathers to the wicker casket before the eagles came, and she offered a prayer of her own until the eagles were out of sight. But she heard the voice again: “They’ll be alright. They will be safe.” She had no idea who the voice was, but tears started to streak down the harpy’s face.
As the sun set completely and the darkness grew thick beneath the brilliant moonlight, they looked down below the precipice in silence. Ebonhorn turned to the group again.
Ebonhorn says [taur-ahe]: Let us drink. Let us eat. Let us sing. Let us cry. Tonight, tonight in this place, we will remember all the lives who were lost, and all the lives that are here today, burning bright.
Tochlights across Thunder Totem light up and fill the city, mountains, and villages with flickering multi-colored fires. Levia described the entire scene to Nyxxa.
