Appearing Characters: Altruis Shadowsong, Ariok, Arthak Saurfang, Bakaz, Delas Moonfang, Elerion Bladedancer, Galforr Siegebreaker, Ger'hel, Illysanna Ravencrest, Jace Darkweaver, Joe Barker, Kor'vas Bloodthorn, Lantresor, Levia Blackflight, Nethrandamus, Nyxxa Murkthorn, Rekki, Sol'chi, Vaerux, Xhilag, Zar'Kaa
November 2nd
As the massive demonic sea monster continued to attack the ships, Nyxxa made use of her natural speed and agility to dart from ship to ship and ensure orders were relayed as well as rescue people that were thrown overboard. On more than one occasion, Nyxxa had to duck beneath the tentacles and lasers, and she noticed a flickering light in the creature’s jaw–it was literally a portal to the Twisting Nether.
It started to disgorge a flock of felbats from its jaw that started to harass the ships. Sol had heard stories of beings like this. Felhunters were a type of naturally occurring demons that had existed for longer than the eredar were a part of the Legion, but for as long as the Legion had been around there was a powerful demon called Hakkar the Houndmaster. Sol knew he was present during the War of the Ancients, and he was a rare type of demon that resembled a fiendish, skeletal creature that burned with hellfire. It was said the first felhunters were raised by him. Regardless, all derivatives of felhunters came from him, and Hakkar was known for having a number of unique pets, including the massive felhunters used by Sargeras. Sol had heard many tales of other such unique creatures, one of which being the Xhilag of the Abyss which was a terrifying, aquatic creature that had single-handedly decimated a world in the past. It was unclear if that story was true, but this creature was likely that storied beast, if not one of its spawn.
The tendrils seemed to devour ambient magic and rend it forth in terrifying blasts that were a combination of disintegration beams and lightning bolts.
Zar’Kaa grabbed a small explosive off the juggernaut and boarded up on Sol’s flying vehicle. As the vehicle soared over the Xhilag, Zar’Kaa hurled his spear and teleported down to the creature. He lodged his spear just above the creature’s mouth and spun himself down as he chucked the explosive down the demon’s throat. There was the sound of an explosion, and the creature reeled and released a tremendous screech.
Sol flipped his vehicle back around and used [Vortex Warp] to get Zar’Kaa back to safety. However, the creature turned its head straight toward Zar’Kaa and a beam of energy blasted straight toward the vessel. Sol twisted the vehicle into an extreme evasive maneuver, and Zar’Kaa lost his footing. However, as he fell through the air, at the last second he hurled his spear into the side of Sol’s vehicle and teleported him back.
Arthak focused on commanding the gunnery crews and ensured the weapons were all primed and focused on the Xhillag.
As the ships engaged in evasive maneuvers, Bakaz’s ship and the Summerfall were lagging behind. However, they were pressing on, and Nyxxa could tell that the density of the magic seemed to be lessening as they drew away from the font of magic the Xhilag seemed to be protecting.
Nyxxa took off into the air to deal with the felbats. She became a flurry of blades and wings as she cut them out of the sky. Demons plummeted into the water and crashed into the deck of the ships.
Arthak used his giant’s might to get larger and heaved one of the canons onto his shoulder. He aimed it at the Xhilag. He lit the cannon with his cigar and fired the cannon at one of the demon’s fins to encourage it to turn back to whatever it was protecting. The iron star skipped across the water and slammed into the side of the demon as fiery chains wrapped around the fin. A significant wound opened, and it started to regenerate, but the act bought them valuable time.
Arthak heaved the cannon back to its original position.
Arthak Saurfang says: As you were.
The gunners cheered before they turned back to setting it up and aiming it again.
Sol turned around and used [Dark Star] near the location they had first encountered the Xhilag. He used the loudspeaker on his vessel to shout at the creature, and the color in the sky started to steadily get sapped out. A tiny, black mote sailed into the ocean, which then exploded into a huge black hole that drew the water into it and created a whirlpool.
The demonic creature turned to look and it looked like it was preparing to disengage.
Zar’Kaa steered the Reuniter to help the ships that were lagging behind. He locked eyes with Bakaz to nonverbally indicate he just didn’t want Bakaz to die before he killed him himself.
Sol teleported back to the ships and directed his vehicle back towards the black hole. It was sent careening back past the massive creature as he then translocated himself safely onto one of the ships.
Several other beams are blasted at the fleeing ships, and some holes were burned into sails, but the ships were miraculously largely unscathed as the Xhilag returned back towards the font of magic. It submerged under the water and disappeared, and the felbats slowly petered off and stopped chasing.
Sol saw his vehicle completely destroyed by a beam of energy, and another tentacle pierced the dark star and consumed it.
Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
Sol'chi says: Anyone dead?
Zar'Kaa says: No. I don’t think so.
There were some injuries, but no permanent casualties.
Zar'Kaa says: I guess that’s one introduction to demon combat.
Sol'chi says: Biggest one we’ve faced.
Nyxxa says: Biggest one we’ve ever seen.
Levia flew down to rejoin the group.
Levia Blackflight says: What the fuck was that thing?
Sol'chi says: Might have been a Xhilag. Or the Xhilag?
Levia Blackflight says: So there’s more?!
Sol'chi says: Maybe? I read in history that it was able to destroy a world because of that portal in its mouth.
Levia Blackflight says: Well shit. Where the hell did it come from?
Nyxxa says: I imagine we can make a few guesses.
Zar'Kaa says: Well, just a shot in the dark, but could it have been here since that War of the Ancients?
Arthak Saurfang says: Possible.
Nyxxa says: We can probably ask the Illidari for more information. Hm. Actually, they did tell me threats coming in this direction… if they knew it was here they probably wouldn’t have suggested we take this route. Or they’re just mean. But seeing they want us in one piece, the former option is more likely.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. It’ll be a big impediment if we need to traverse the Isle. We won’t be able to get near that thing. Unless we find a way to bring it down.
Galforr Siegebreaker says: When we find a way to bring it down. That thing is scary, but we orcs have taken down bigger monsters than that. Everything has a weakness, and that thing has one too. We just need the right kind of weapon. We’ll take it down, especially with the backup of a group of demon hunters.
Nyxxa says: I appreciate the initiative.
Galforr Siegebreaker says: They don’t call me the Siegebreaker for nothing.
Arthak Saurfang says: And he’s right. Killing giant monsters is a tradition.
Sol'chi says: Seems we need to keep magic away from it. It seemed like that made it heal faster.
Galforr Siegebreaker says: Good information. We’ll see what we can do and find out something. Worst case scenario, if we get enough firepower we can just hit it very hard. But I prefer to go against this thing prepared. We need some sort of defense.
Sol'chi says: I’ll try to see what I remember on it.
Galforr Siegebreaker says: Much appreciated.
Zar'Kaa says: In the meantime, we just will need to not go back that way.
Nyxxa says: I think that may be our target.
Arthak Saurfang says: Using something like that as a guard dog implies that may be our final destination. I agree.
Nyxxa says: They can’t afford to fail here, and neither do we.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. I definitely believe you now.
Nyxxa says: Hurray!
Arthak Saurfang says: The evidence was strong.
Zar’Kaa went off to tend to the wounded, and Nyxxa opted to check on the other ships. Sol commented that Zar’Kaa was a crazy motherfucker for the stunt he pulled, even if he happily supported it. Rokara also commented that he had some stones, and Bakaz agreed that was one word for it.
Rekki had busied herself taking care of those who were wounded during the encounter with the Xhillag. She was giving Zar’Kaa a once over.
Rekki says: Seems despite all odds you’re good. By some miracle. And it was pretty impressive, I’ll give you that.
Zar'Kaa says: I bet it was!
Rekki says: Crazy bullshit. I guess I see why you’re leading the ship if you will pull off crazy shit like that.
Zar'Kaa says: Monster like that, you gotta take drastic action. No time to think.
Rekki says: Well, make sure you aren’t just doing it to show off.
Zar'Kaa says: Well, in that same spirit. Rekki, you got something you want to tell me?
Rekki says: Is there something you think I want to tell you?
Zar’Kaa leveled his gaze.
Zar'Kaa says: I get the sense, when we were speaking to some of the trolls from Zar’jira’s lair, it wasn’t the first time you met them. Specifically Bakaz.
Rekki says: Oh. That. Yeah. I know him.
Zar'Kaa says: Can you elaborate?
Rekki says: I knew him before the war. My parents died when I was pretty young. Vilebranch raid. I was old enough to start taking care of myself for the most part, but… Bakaz helped me out. He looked out for me until I was definitely old enough to take care of myself. He was an old friend of my parents’ I guess.
Zar’Kaa raised an eyebrow.
Zar'Kaa says: That guy? He had friends. Really?
Rekki says: Yeah, it’s not that hard to believe.
Zar'Kaa says: it is when you’re discussing a psychopath that feels no remorse and enjoys what he does. Yeah, it is hard to believe, actually.
Rekki says: Zar’Kaa. He’s a person like you or I. I get the fact you don’t like him and that he hurt you and the tribe, but that doesn’t make him some sort of monster.
Zar'Kaa says: Well, see, when you hurt someone, it’s a wound. You can heal from it. When you get killed, you can’t heal from it. You’re just dead. He killed our tribes people. Not just mine, yours too, seeing you’re Darkspear now, so we should make that distinction–
Rekki says: Why did you come here? To disparage me? I didn’t choose my history. If you think I’m some sort of spy or I’m not loyal because I have a connection to another troll…
Zar'Kaa says: No. That’s not where I was going with this.
Rekki says: It sure sounds like it.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. I guess I’m trying to understand. What is it you actually see in him that I’m supposed to see? Beyond just that he’s a living person? Because sorry, that doesn’t cut it.
Rekki says: Because I wouldn’t be alive if it wasn’t for him? I was a kid. Without his protection, I have no idea what would have happened. He made sure I had what I needed to survive. Hell, he’s the reason I’m a witch doctor. If he didn’t use his connections I wouldn’t have been apprenticed under Yayo’jin. She probably wouldn’t have cared, and if he hadn’t taught me the basics, I would have never discovered the skill in the first place. When the war started, he left, and when everything fell apart, well there wasn’t much of a tribe left. I stayed in the village until the Darkspear showed up. Eventually what few of us were left just joined up with the Darkspear. What else were we going to do? Then we were on the run again, and you know how the rest of that goes. I haven’t seen Bakaz in over twenty years now. He’s probably a different person than he was. And honestly? If I’m being genuine? What you did with that demon seemed like something he would have done. So you guys aren’t that different.
Zar’Kaa spit to the side.
Rekki says: Don’t spit in the infirmary. It’s unsanitary.
Zar’Kaa dropped some sanitation liquid over the area, and Rekki crossed her arms.
Zar'Kaa says: Look. It’s not just that you knew him. I get the sense that he was angry that he saw your again.
Rekki says: it’s not me. I already talked to him. He was hoping I’d come back now that the Revantusk are back. I told him the others might, but I don’t plan to leave the Darkspear. I’ve lived with the Darkspear for some time. I don’t know if I can even be called Revantusk anymore. I don’t know if I could be called Darkspear, either, but I’m picking the one I chose. He’s not happy about that, but that’s not his decision to make.
Zar'Kaa says: No. You’re right. It isn’t. It’s not my decision either, it’s just yours. I can’t tell you how to feel. I hope you still see our people as a home for you.
Rekki says: It was good seeing them again. Especially Yayo’jin.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m sure it was. It doesn’t matter, but I promised Arthak that I wouldn’t poke the bear while we’re on this mission. But you need to understand that, despite your history, I hate him. And that’s just all there is to it. So yeah. Even if you have a history that’s more pleasant, it still makes me some type of way.
Rekki says: What would you do if I did decide to go back?
Zar’Kaa looked away.
Rekki says: Would you hate me too?
Zar'Kaa says: I don’t hate everyone that has wronged me, Rekki. Or hurt me. All I’ll say is that it wouldn’t be the first time. But that is your choice. I won’t stop you. I’m not pushing you out the door, but I’m not keeping it locked. But it’s not your job to care about how it makes me feel.
Rekki says: I never said it was my job, but that doesn’t mean I can’t care. That wasn’t a fair question anyway. I have other patients to see to. I hope that answered some of your questions.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah.
Rekki says: For what it’s worth, I’m sorry for what happened to you. I’m surprised to hear about it as well, but I guess a part of me is not. Either way.
Rekki nodded and turned back to her work.
November 3rd - November 6th
Early on in the journey, Arthak had reached out to his command staff and asked for recommendations on their best soldiers. He then handed them off to Ger’hel and Lantresor to train, but during the last leg he asked for Nyxxa’s help as he was seeking to create a more elite team of other runic warriors.
A good two dozen of those put forward seemed to be solid candidates.
Ger’hel and Ariok were two of the notable ones that seemed to be most suited to the fighting style, and were quite interested in the notion. Galforr agreed that Ariok would be a good candidate, and Lantresor agreed that the idea of “unexpected devastation from nowhere” fit the idea of Ger’hel, the Black Lightning.
Over several weeks of intense training, he had the beginning of his war bands.
Arthak Saurfang says: As you master these arts, more runes will open themselves to you and will become a part of you. But–
He directed their attention toward the brands he had prepared.
Arthak Saurfang says: We are warriors. We are destroyers. One does not excel at this without having something of a war within themselves. Truth versus lies, creation versus destruction. Pick your war, and be reforged in it.
Ger’hel chose the runes for love and hatred, and Arthak branded the runes into her arms. Ger’hel crossed her arms and let out a howl. She grew to twice her height, and her skin turned obsidian with golden eyes. The orcs cheered, and she returned to her normal size.
Ariok chose the runes for shield and sword, and he too was branded. Ariok smiled through the entire thing. As he stepped backwards, he turned to the gathered crowd.
Ariok says: Lok’tar, brothers and sisters! Victory or death!
He too grew to twice his size. His skin was granite, and his eyes were bright rubies. Everyone cheered again, and he looked down to Galforr.
Ariok says: What do you think, my flame?
Galforr Siegebreaker says: I’m not used to you being larger than me.
Ariok says: Is that a good thing?
Galforr blushed.
Galforr Siegebreaker says: You look good, my love.
Ariok laughed and shrunk down again as he and Galforr touched their foreheads. Other orcs chose their wars and Arthak branded each one. At the end, Arthak raised his stone first and took his giant form. The rest of them also joined him, and they all released a war cry.
Nyxxa was preparing herself for arriving at Black Rook Hold, and had managed to successfully master illusory magic. However, in the process she had started to look at herself as a night elf. Because of her new sight, she could see through her own illusion, which appeared as almost an overlay over her demonic form.
It was painful to witness, but she had started to realize that the image before her wasn’t her anymore.
Levia Blackflight says: Hey Nyx, did you see me– oh. Hi. Do I know you?
Levia had entered the room.
Nyxxa says: It’s me.
Levia Blackflight says: Oh. Fuck. Shit. I wasn’t sure if I should be worried or– oh. Hi Nyx, is this…? Did you? What’s going on?
Nyxxa dismissed the disguise for a moment.
Nyxxa says: I’ve been playing with the shadows a bit.
Levia Blackflight says: Oh. Shit. Sorry I was about to hit on you.
Nyxxa blinked.
Levia Blackflight says: look, it’s been a long trip. I guess this is pretty smart, huh?
Nyxxa says: Yeah. With this… I’ll worry less about causing problems for the rest of you.
Levia Blackflight says: Well you certainly had me fooled. Are you okay?
Nyxxa says: It’s a lot. To see myself like this. But it’s… it’s nice to know it’s not me anymore. Any thought I had that I would still be this person… that’s just who I was now, not who I am.
Levia smiled.
Levia Blackflight says: Yeah, I get it. Trust me, I get it. Well hey, if you need to talk about anything, you know I’ll listen. But I’m glad you feel that way. At the end of the day you’re you, and I think that’s the important thing. I think everyone would agree with that.
Nyxxa says: People seem to like me for some reason! And I keep getting told I’m a good person… but. You were going to flirt with a night elf that snuck on the ship?
Levia Blackflight says: Well I was going to figure out if you were a threat, but then–
Nyxxa says: You would have flirted with them.
Levia Blackflight says: I would have done both at the same time.
Nyxxa says: That’s my girl.
Levia Blackflight says: Besides, that’s a good way to get them on your back foot!
Nyxxa says: You’ll have plenty of elves to flirt with at Black Rook Hold.
Levia Blackflight says: Yeah. Are you excited to see everyone?
Nyxxa says: Yeah. I am.
Levia gave Nyxxa a hug and poked at the buns on her head, as they were quite cute. Nyxxa told her that she was going to tell the others that she could disguise herself now. Sol commented that she was cute, and Zar’Kaa gave her a double-take before it was explained that it was actually Nyxxa.
Sol also asked Nyxxa if she could show them what Vaerux looked like.
Vaerux says [telepathically]: Go on. Show them what I looked like before you devoured me like an all you can eat buffet.
Nyxxa turned into Vaerux and used [Minor Illusion] to relay anything he was saying to complete the set. Vaerux also got a final bite in that what she thought she looked like before was fairly close.
Zar’Kaa asked some questions about what Vaerux’s deal was, and Nyxxa explained that consuming a demon was how they got their abilities.
Nyxxa also suggested that Sol disguise himself as well, and he turned himself blue, like a draenei.
Nyxxa says: That… might get some questions.
Sol'chi says: Yeah. But so will bumping into people with my horns and tail.
Levia Blackflight says: Well. As long as you’re okay getting attention from the Legion. If they hear about a draenei, they’ll probably look into you.
Sol'chi says: Well. I’m a lesser target. They’ll probably go for mister prince over there.
Sol pointed at his Azgadaan simulacrum, and explained to Zar’Kaa who he actually was.
Levia Blackflight says: I guess there is the question of why a draenei would be traveling with the orcs, but I guess if you have a good enough story, it works.
Nyxxa says: As long as you aren’t too conspicuous.
Sol'chi says: If you have any other suggestions I’d be glad to take them.
Zar'Kaa says: You can turn into someone native to Azeroth?
Sol turned into Zar’Kaa, and Zar’Kaa gave him a weird look.
Levia Blackflight says: We can figure it out.
Nyxxa says: We can ask the demon hunters for ideas.
Levia Blackflight says: Yeah, you just need something with horns and a tail I guess?
Nyxxa says: Ultimately the night elves will be suspicious of any outsiders. But if people are who they say they are, that’ll be easier.
Zar'Kaa says: What if they just see through the ruse?
Nyxxa says: Then that’s that. But Val’sharah, where Black Rook Hold is, is one of the most sacred places of the kaldorei people. I shouldn’t be there, but circumstances necessitate that I must. Thus me finding a workaround is better. I want to avoid scrutiny.
Zar'Kaa says: Why couldn’t you be there? I don’t get it.
Nyxxa says: I corrupt the ground I walk on. My nature is quelled a bit, but night elves don’t know that. They know what I’m capable of. They are frankly right to assume the worst. I have no intention of corrupting that space. I’ve seen it wrought first hand, and I won’t repeat that again.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. Who knows. Maybe we can figure something out. Maybe this isn’t as bad as it seems.
Zar’Kaa found Arthak aboard the Second Chance juggernaut to speak.
Zar'Kaa says: It’s been a crazy past few days, huh?
Arthak Saurfang says: Something like that I guess.
Zar'Kaa says: Huh. I guess you’re used to it.
Arthak Saurfang says: My perceptions are somewhat skewed, I must admit. Give it time.
Zar'Kaa says: No doubt.
Arthak Saurfang says: So. What can I assist you with?
Zar'Kaa says: I guess I’m just checking in. I know we already spoke, but I couldn’t really gauge what you felt about me coming with all of you. So I’m curious.
Arthak Saurfang says: Pleased. Pleasantly surprised.
Zar'Kaa says: I think I’m a little surprised myself. I’m not a save the world type of guy, you know. My priorities have been myself or my tribe. I’ve never really had to consider anything else. Let alone something on the scale of Azeroth or beyond.
Arthak Saurfang says: Ultimately no one is a save the world type of guy until circumstances demand it.
Zar'Kaa says: What circumstances made you become one?
Arthak Saurfang says: The same set of circumstances. I was not a savior before now.
Zar'Kaa says: No. Just a conqueror, right?
Arthak Saurfang says: As a means to an end, yes. I took the steps I felt necessary to establish a place of influence where I could steer my people away from the Legion.
Zar'Kaa says: Yeah. Still trying to wrap my head around that one. I mean, I’m sure you noticed, I’ve started to mingle. They pretty much all say the same thing. In one way or another. That they were subjugated by the Legion, and many of them grew up with the Legion having this stranglehold on the Horde. A few of them mentioned the time before that, when there wasn’t a Horde, which you alluded to as well. It’s insane just to think about all of it.
Arthak Saurfang says: Not particularly insane. It began with them helping us. As time went on, their influence grew. Our alliance grew stronger. Until, yes, you come to my generation who grew up not knowing any other way. The Legion has the capability to play the long game.
Zar'Kaa says: And that’s what you tried to do? Play the long game?
Arthak Saurfang says: Indeed. I have found that my adversaries usually are also my greatest teachers. The man we are chasing… I learned much from him.
Zar'Kaa says: Such as what?
Arthak Saurfang says: How to expand and manipulate power without anyone realizing you are doing so.
Zar'Kaa says: Funny. That’s never what I thought of power being. I’ve always thought of it as something one beholds and they just gain more of it. Until they can do whatever they want. Accomplish any goal, best any foe. What you’re describing is… I never thought of it that way.
Arthak Saurfang says: That is the degree of power that Gul’dan possessed. Without his help I would not have been in the position to unseat the previous warchief. He sought to replace one figurehead with another. For all the warchief’s obvious power, it was Gul’dan and those who served him in the shadows that really guided the course of the Horde.
Zar'Kaa says: Sounds like you were in a pretty good position. Maybe not to be a figurehead, but you could have just stayed with the Legion. Hell, from the sound of it, there’s no army on Azeroth that compares, including the Horde. So why not do that? What made Arthak turn from the Legion when so many wouldn’t?
Arthak Saurfang says: That answer is complicated.
Zar'Kaa says: Is it? No offense, but, there’s always a reason to do one thing or another. It’s always simple. At least that’s what I found.
Arthak Saurfang says: Maybe. But simplicity comes at the expense of truth. And I prefer truth.
Zar'Kaa says: I guess that’s all you’re going to give me for now, huh?
Arthak grunted and eyed Zar’Kaa up and down.
Arthak Saurfang says: Permit me a guess about something, captain.
Zar'Kaa says: Go for it, war man.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m familiar enough with your language that I’ve been thinking on it for a while now. When you were young, it was titi, wasn’t it? What they called you.
Zar’Kaa’s expression hardens.
Zar'Kaa says: So you know a fucking word of my language. Big deal.
Arthak Saurfang says: Not just any word. Your word. Mine was cowardspawn.
Zar'Kaa says: So. Cowardspawn and some word you think applies to me. Now. Let me guess who told you–
Arthak Saurfang says: You did.
There was just silence.
Zar'Kaa says: So we’re going to go down this road again, hm?
Arthak Saurfang says: We don’t have to. But you came to me and asked me a question. And you asked me not to be delicate. So I have answered indelicately.
Zar'Kaa says: Fine. Want me to indulge you, cowardspawn?
Arthak Saurfang says: Only if you wish to, captain.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. I’ll bite this time. Fuck it. Yes. When I was young, that was my word. Thrown around as if it could just take the place of my name. I was young, but I knew what it meant. Old enough to feel the weight of carrying that around my people. Now I’m guessing this is the part where you surmise how the so-skilled warrior captain of the Darkspear expedition take on a term? What cruel unimaginable thing could happen? Then I’ll do the same thing about why you’re called a cowardspawn, and then we’ll muse about which of us can peer more into the heart of the other? Did I outline that for you?
Arthak Saurfang says: That is a way it can go. But I was thinking we could just talk.
Zar'Kaa says: We can. But not about that. Is that understood?
Arthak Saurfang says: It is.
Zar'Kaa says: Good. Now if you’re done being a dick, I did have something else I wanted to bring up to you.
Arthak Saurfang says: By all means.
Zar'Kaa says: I never fought in a war before. You have. So when we make landfall, we’re going to need to know how best to work with one another. You know, get the most out of each other’s forces. I’m assuming this an effective way of doing war, correct?
Arthak Saurfang says: Very much so.
Zar'Kaa says: Alright. So I’ll give you some thoughts about how myself and my crew can best be used. As you noticed, we work best with hit and run tactics. Guerilla warfare. We can get in and out quickly. And do a lot of damage. Before the enemy can strike back. As such, we can cover a lot of ground quickly when we are on the isles. Get back before the enemy knows what happened to them. That’s me telling you what we’re good at. So what do you think?
Arthak Saurfang says: My thoughts were much the same. You have a small force, which also means that tactics that I can apply with the Iron March would not be feasible. We’re moving into a forest environment. We have a clan familiar, but the bulk of their forces are not here, so your people are the most experienced we have on that front. So. Mobile. Small. Scouting. Hit and run tactics. It makes sense.
Zar'Kaa says: Alright. No offense, but yeah, I kind of noticed that. I’m no war expert, but it seems we’re the missing piece of the puzzle. Furthermore, I’ll show some of your people how to fight that way. If you’ll grant them that.
Arthak Saurfang says: Gladly. You’ll want to seek out of the few Bleeding Hollow with us. They are our experts with this environment. The Frostwolves may also have much to learn, but they come from a… well. You can guess from the name. But similar tactics, even if the environment is different.
Zar'Kaa says: I’ll make myself known.
Arthak Saurfang says: You already have.
Zar'Kaa says: No doubt. Hopefully that encounter with the demon was a good indication.
Arthak nodded. Zar’Kaa turned to leave, but then paused.
Zar'Kaa says: I don’t think I ever asked. Which clan did you come from?
Arthak Saurfang says: I was born Blackrock and Burning Blade, raised for a time in both, then sometime with the Frostwolves.
Zar'Kaa says: Hm. Just wanted to see which of the clans decided to call their youth cowardspawn.
Arthak Saurfang says: No clan. Just the Horde.
The ships crept closer and closer to the fortress they were looking for. Fortunately, the journey was peaceful after the attack of the massive demon. Eventually, they passed closer to the southern tip of the region known as Azsuna. It had water-torn ruins and broken ships, and they passed an island with high forests and more ruins. There were higher mountains than the mainland, and they found themselves sailing for two days through a blanket of freezing rain. By the third day, they continued north, and they saw another island that seemed to be broken off from the mainland. The high forests and mountains were kissed with the early presence of Legion occupations. There were felbats and felcannons visible, and they purposely put distance between them and the shore to mask their presence.
They continued past several more island chains as they got closer and closer.
Sol was able to successfully make himself a pistol, and he converted the incantation of devastating hand so it used lightning damage.
Nyxxa went to see Arthak before they arrived at Black Rook Hold.
Nyxxa says: So. I actually realized something. It’s been over a year since we’ve met, and… I don’t know when your nameday is. But I figure it’s passed by now.
Nyxxa placed a pipe on Arthak’s desk. It looked like it was carved out of tusks–specifically a shed tusk from Puffer. Carved on it were all the current symbols of the clans in the Horde, as well as room for more. Arthak lifted it and looked at it with clear appreciation.
Arthak Saurfang says: Fine craftsmanship.
Nyxxa says: You should try taking a puff. Think about something while you do.
Nyxxa grinned. Arthak squinted at her, but he lit the pipe and took a deep puff. A question mark appeared in the smoke.
Arthak Saurfang says: Interesting.
Arthak tried a few other shapes, including symbols of the Horde, a few folks they had seen in the past, and other such images. He smiled.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well done. Thank you my friend.
Nyxxa says: I’m glad you like it! As you said, it’s nice to have. It’s nice we’re smoking buddies. And. Well.
She controlled some of the smoke.
Nyxxa says: And I found that fun! And poignant for certain statements. I thought you’d enjoy the showmanship.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’ll find a use at some point or another, I imagine.
Nyxxa says: Happy belated nameday! And happy becoming warchief of the Horde!
Arthak Saurfang says: Thank you. More for the latter. But I appreciate the sentiment.
Nyxxa says: I figured.
November 7th
The ships began their approach to the ancient coast. There was definitely a chill in the air as the early winter started to settle in. The islands around the shore were treacherous, and they passed old ruins of ships that had run aground.
Nyxxa got the unmistakable sense that they were being watched, as did Arthak. On a nearby steep cliff that led down to the water, there was a shadow that faded after a short time. Before long, a shadow then passed over them, and there was the sound of wings soaring by.
A moment later, there was the chittering of a felbat, and a figure fell through the mist and landed on the deck of the juggernaut near Nyxxa. He was a spry night elf, and he was unarmed. He stood up to his full height, his body covered in scars and tattoos similar to Nyxxa’s, but his were the color of scar tissue on his gray-purple skin.
Illidari Night Elf says [darnassian]: You’ve arrived.
Nyxxa nodded. She recognized him to be Elerion Bladedancer.
Nyxxa says [darnassian]: Emissary Bladedancer.
Nyxxa bowed, and Elerion returned the gesture.
Elerion Bladedancer says [darnassian]: Good to see you in one piece.
He looked around.
Elerion Bladedancer says: You must be Arthak, correct? Welcome to Val’sharah. I’m here to guide you into a cove where you can keep your vessels safely. The Slayer will need to speak to you personally, before you bring the rest of your sizeable contingent.
Nyxxa says: Yes. More than I initially reported. There are a few things we should talk about before it may be safe to go to the Hold. I wouldn’t want to surprise her.
Elerion nodded.
Elerion Bladedancer says: Very well. I’ll ensure she knows to meet you at the Raven’s Drink. Follow me through the mists. I’ll guide you there.
Elerion released a sharp whistle, and the felbat he arrived on swooped down and Elerion leaped up onto the creature’s back. Zar’Kaa nudged Nyxxa and asked what the demon was called. She explained it was a felbat, which Zar’Kaa jotted down in a small notepad.
They carefully followed the felbat through the mists, and a tall mountain came into view. Even through the mist they could see that it was one of the higher mountains in the region. Built into the side of the mountain was a great fortress with tall towers. Ivy grew over the stone and it was overgrown with trees. There was a river that traveled further inland, and there was an inlet that Elerion led them into.
As they pulled into the cove, there was another ship. It was elven in make–but not night elven. It was high elven. Its sails were furled, and it was anchored. There were a few individuals on the ship that were watching the other ships come in. There were a few high elves, and a human, who was wearing a headband and was checking things out on the ship and watching the arrival. Most noteworthy, the prow of the ship had the figurehead of a beautiful, long-tailed dove carved from marble and ivory.
Sol ran over to the side and waved. The elves swiftly dispersed, and the human squinted and slowly raised a hand. Arthak rounded up the immediate group.
Nyxxa says: Well… that’s not too unexpected. Loremus did recruit some high elves…
Arthak Saurfang says: I would simply ask that in the presence of anyone that is not us or the Illidari, we do not speak of our plans for after this campaign. The Horde’s plans for the war. I would like that to be kept away from them.
Nyxxa says: Understood.
Sol'chi says: Military secret, got it.
Zar'Kaa says: Well I have no reason to tell them anything.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good.
Zar'Kaa says: Best we stick to orcish around here as much as possible?
Nyxxa says: If they are guests of the Illidari, it’s best to just… keep things civil.
Arthak Saurfang says: Agreed. Eventually this anomaly will be dropped, but at that point any information can be relayed via magic. I don’t want that.
Levia Blackflight says: I just hope it’s no one I know.
Arthak Saurfang says: Likewise.
Nyxxa says: If I know anything about the Illidari, if any of them give you trouble, come to me first, or one of the Illidari. Don’t start shit.
Levia Blackflight says: Don’t need to tell me twice.
Arthak Saurfang says: I would not embarrass you, Nyxxa.
Nyxxa says: Everyone here is here on my word. This is me asking nicely to not make me look bad. I don’t want to lose the trust I have with them.
Sol'chi says: Definitely.
Zar'Kaa says: Fair enough.
Nyxxa says: And if someone is bothering you… the Illidari don’t like bullshit. So. they can intercede. But if you start shit, there’s less I can do.
Arthak Saurfang says: I understand. We are under the terms of hospitality.
Nyxxa says: Yes. Thank you for hearing me out.
Arthak Saurfang says: My concern is information. Not assassins. Yet.
Nyxxa says: I want to make sure the Horde can safely pull off their plans post this expedition. And I won’t say more.
Sol'chi says: I am going to try to make friends!
The continued following the felbat, and the ships glided into places where they can weigh anchor. Into the side of the rock was a silver dais that seemed to be a small dock. There was a door that entered the mountain. On the dais was four figures. One of them was Altruis Shadowsong, the night elf demon hunter that aided them on Outland. Behind him was a young night elf with teal tattoos and two small horns. Nyxxa recognized him as actually being Nethrandamus, the nether dragon that was with Altruis, but clearly disguised by a visage. Next to Altruis was a wiry but toned night elf with bright green tattoos and wild violet hair: Jace Darkweaver.
The last night elf was a woman, none other than Illysanna Ravencrest.
Nyxxa flew ahead of the rest of the group so that she could inform Illysanna of some of the surprise companions, including Mindi–the dreadlord. Nyxxa explained Mindi intended on introducing himself to Illysanna personally as well, but not everyone in the group was aware of what he actually was. Illysanna thanked Nyxxa for informing her.
Altruis expressed he was glad that Nyxxa made it back safely, and Nyxxa returned the notion.
The rest of the group caught up with her as Nyxxa finished the explanation.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Welcome to Black Rook Hold. Know that while you are here, you are under the protection of the Illidari, but also my own protection. I’m Illysanna Ravencrest. I’ve heard much of you, all good, I promise, though there are a few unfamiliar faces. To my left is Jace Darkweaver, our expert on arcanum and Legion artifice, and to my right you should be familiar.
Altruis Shadowsong says: It’s good to see you all. I look forward to our next hunt, though it’ll be hard to beat our last one.
Azgadaan says: A pleasure to meet you all. I’m Azgadaan, former prince of the Burning Legion.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: A pleasure. I’ve heard much of your plight thus far, Azgadaan.
Azgadaan says: Glad some information has gotten around. And this is my friend, Sol.
The simulacrum gestured toward Sol.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Another one? I wasn’t aware a second eredar would be present.
Nyxxa says: This one has also earned my trust. I believe he will be able to speak for himself.
Sol'chi says: I’m adept at making friends along the way!
Illysanna smiled.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Wonderful to hear. You’ll have plenty of friends to meet, though some may be less enthusiastic about meeting some of you I fear.
Zar'Kaa says: Well, I guess since I’m the new face around, I’m Zar’Kaa, Darkspear Tribe.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Pleasure, Zar’Kaa of the Darkspear Tribe.
Zar’Kaa reached out for a handshake, and Illysanna took it.
Zar'Kaa says: Didn’t plan to be here until about a week ago, so this is all new.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Well fate has a strange way of unfolding our path in front of us. Trust me. It’s happened on far too many occasions.
Zar'Kaa says: If you believe in fate.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: I believe it is something we are a participant in. But a discussion for later. Though. I have heard that one amongst your number may not be opposed to such a discussion?
She glanced at Arthak.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Your reputation precedes you, Warchief.
Arthak Saurfang says: As does yours, Slayer. But etiquette. I am Arthak Saurfang, warchief of the Horde.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: I’ve waited some time to meet you, master Saurfang. And I’m glad you made your way here after all that time.
Arthak Saurfang says: It has been a long road. But a fruitful one.
Other introductions are made, and Illysanna smiled at them.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: My motivation for meeting you here away from the heart of the Raven’s Court was twofold. It was to ensure you are the individuals we expected, which you passed with flying colors. The second pertains to our unexpected guests. I thought it fair to warn you in advance, as interesting as it might be for you to stumble upon them without warning. The situation may grow tense, and it will be vital for me to ensure we are all on the same page as we move into our next phase.
Arthak Saurfang says: If you are concerned about our behavior, let me assure you, we will be on our best behavior. You have offered us hospitality, and trust. Nyxxa is a dear friend.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Full glad am I to hear it. I’ve already given the same speech to the others, but given your history witht he commander of this group, I though it wise to warn you. You’re familiar with Kilnar Goldensword, yes?
Nyxxa says: What?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: I thought so. This vessel is called the Gold Standard. It is her flagship, as well as the Reliquary she commands.
Sol'chi and Azgadaan say: Glad she’s alive.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Indeed! Though it seems she may be different. But that is not my tale to tell, and she will likely not be forthcoming in sharing. They’ve come here on a similar mission. Well. One that runs congruent. They did not come alone. They returned here from Kalimdor after a great upheaval, one that was unknown to even myself. Evidently, a dreadlord had weaseled its way into the highest escelons of society, and was orchestrating conflict between they and the draenei. The individuals here have returned after thwarting the dreadlord, and they have done so to search for one of their own leaders.
Nyxxa says: I see…
Illysanna Ravencrest says: That leader is Malfurion Stormrage.
Nyxxa says: He’s missing?
Illysanna Ravencrest says: evidently yes, for many years. You’ll never guess who’s come looking.
Nyxxa says: I wouldn’t know. Who?
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Tyrande Whisperwind herself.
Nyxxa says: What!?
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Ands he brought Illidan Stormrage as well. Quite the duo.
Nyxxa says: They’re here?!
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Yes.
Nyxxa says: Right now?
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Mmhm.
Nyxxa says: Up there!
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Yes. They brought a small contingent of their forces in hope that we might aid them. I intend on doing so once we can determine more. Having a druid of his might would be invaluable against the Legion threat, and of course getting into the good graces of Mistress Whisperwind.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m a bit out of the loop, but I’m assuming these are all important people?
Illysanna took a moment to explain the situation briefly, and the people involved to Zar'Kaa.
Illysanna Ravencrest says: Thankfully we’ve cleared out some of the tunnels leading to the Hold. It was only after the Gold Standard arrived we were able to do such a thing. Before that, we would have had to climbed up the cliff face.
Arthak Saurfang says: For the sake of transparency, is there anyone else among the Gold Standard contingent I’ve attempted to kill? Or who might wish me ill?
Illysanna Ravencrest says: None that I can think of. Their crew consists primarily of blood elves, a handful of humans, and a small contingent of draenei. They are from a small group known as the Ati-kaso, who have allied themselves with Kilnar.
Nyxxa says: Well. Lets pull this bandage off. There are some things I want to return to Miss Goldensword…
They started to head through the doorway. It seemed the tunnel was partially collapsed and had since been cleared out. As they emerged, they found themselves within the fortress walls in the center of a long courtyard that spanned out in all directions. Multiple camps were setup, and several of the elves glared at them from across the courtyard.
Illidari were going about their training, and some of them were blood elves who still had their eyes. There was also a pink-skinned murloc training with warglaives. However, Nyxxa also saw a figure she thought she would never see again.
She was a thin, waifish demon hunter with scraggly black hair helping to train someone. Then Kor’vas turned, and Nyxxa saw her from across the courtyard.
Nyxxa says: Kor’vas?
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Nyxxa!
Kor’vas dropped what she was doing and immediately barreled at Nyxxa.
Nyxxa says: You’re alive!
They immediately run forward and embrace. But then Kor’vas’s face pales.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Nyxxa, we need to go for a second. I need to explain–
Suddenly, there was a bright light that ignited the entire area, and Kor’vas spun around.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Mom! WAIT!
A figure fell down into the center of the light and landed without a hint of sound. A ripple of moonlight erupted out from every direction and washed harmlessly over Kor’vas, but then hit Nyxxa. Nyxxa was sent flying backwards and was knocked on her back.
The woman that had appeared was on top of Nyxxa, and her blade was at Nyxxa’s throat.
Delas Moonfang says: How. Dare you. Of course it was you! Of course it was you who filled her mind with all these ideas!
Nyxxa says: You’re… her mother.
Delas Moonfang says: You don’t remember, do you? Nhemai.
Nyxxa says: You know that name?
Kor’vas is trying to drag Delas off Nyxxa, and her body was wreathed in flame. A gout of felfire erupted between Nyxxa and Delas.
Nyxxa says: Who are you?
Delas looked at Nyxxa, then at Kor’vas.
Delas Moonfang says: You didn’t tell her either, did you? That she’s your mother?
Kor’vas looked at both of them, still wreathed in felfire.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Put down the blade, and I’ll explain everything, alright?
Delas looked at Kor’vas, then at Nyxxa.
Delas Moonfang says: You’d best have a good explanation, Kor’vas.
Nyxxa looked dumbfounded as she looked at Kor’vas.
Nyxxa says: You… it’s you… You’re…
Delas sheathed her blade across her back, and Kor’vas looked at Nyxxa with a smile, tears streaming beneath her blindfold.
Kor'vas Bloodthorn says: Sorry...
