Appearing Characters: Arthak Saurfang, Bakaz, Brakoss, Bru'kan, Dal'rend Blackhand, Elarisiel Bloodwrath, Feronas Sindweller, Glashaa, Gul'dan, Illysanna Ravencrest, Iskar, Krisek, Mindirinokonolophonias, Mork, Nesslyn, Nyxxa Murkthorn, Rak'Symma, Sol'chi, Velameestra Windrunner (Simualcrum), Volrath, Zar'Kaa
November 29th
As Zar’Kaa had gone off to be alone on the beach with his hands in the sand, he heard Bru’kan’s voice.
Bru'kan says: That’s not gonna make the pain go away, my boy.
Zar’Kaa acknowledged he knew.
Zar'Kaa says: But the difference, Bru’kan, is this time I earned it. I deserve this.
Bru’kan asked what he deserved, and Zar’Kaa got back to his feet and stuck the spear in the ground. The other troll’s spirit appeared and Zar’Kaa displayed his blood hands and said they were what he deserved.
Zar'Kaa says: I failed them! I failed them, Bru’kan.
Bru'kan says: Did they tell you to do this? Did they say that you earned this?
Zar'Kaa says: They didn’t tell me to fuck around. They didn’t tell me to fail them. But I did that anyway.
Bru'kan says: So what are you gonna do about it?
Zar’Kaa fell to his knees and admitted he didn’t know. Bru’kan said that was fine. He didn’t need to be right all the time, and he was allowed to make mistakes.
Bru'kan says: I guarantee every person on that ship has fucked something up somewhere in their lives. But making yourself suffer more about it isn’t going to help you. It’s not going to help you figure out what comes next, and it won’t help you forgive yourself for failing, or forgiving them for casting you out. They didn’t kick you off the crew, Zar’Kaa. It’s not over. It doesn’t have to be over. But you can’t just take a failure and let it consume you. If we did that, the Darkspear would have died a long time ago. But it didn’t. I can’t magically take the pain away. But if you can start thinking about forgiving me for what I did, then maybe you deserve some of that grace too, huh? Remember what I said. If you feel like you hate everyone, eat, and if you feel like you hate yourself, take a nap. There are always things you can do, Zar’Kaa. Little things. Little steps.
Zar'Kaa says: You’re not beholden to me anymore. I don’t have a title anymore.
Bru'kan says: You don’t think I’m here because you were the captain, do you? I’m not here because of what you were, I’m here because of who you are, and that hasn’t changed.
Zar’Kaa didn’t have a response to that. They sat in silence for a while, but then they were snapped out of it by a voice.
Bakaz says: There’s the little fish! I was wondering where you ran off too.
Zar'Kaa says: So. Come to gloat, have you?
Bakaz says: About the business with your crew? No no. Frankly, none of that matters to me. Don’t tell me you’re out here moping about that, are you?
Zar’Kaa grunted in frustration.
Bakaz says: Oh come on… you gotta be realizing this is a blessing in disguise, right?
Zar'Kaa says: What?
Bakaz waved his hands.
Bakaz says: That’s one less thing you need to worry about. Leadership really isn’t all it’s cracked up to be anyways.
Bakaz plopped down in the sand next to him.
Bakaz says: Now you can focus on whatever it is you want to do.
Zar'Kaa says: So. Taking the load of?
Bakaz says: Don’t see why not! Do whatever you want to do. Undo your burdens. Train with that new power of yours, or pursuing romance if that’s what you prefer! Hell, you can even try to plot your revenge. What you don’t need to worry about is giving orders to a bunch of people who can figure out what to do without you there. One less thing to worry about, really.
Zar'Kaa says: You know, since seeing you again, I’ve thought a lot about what I wanted to do with you, but I can’t, because your master wouldn’t like it.
Bakaz says: My master? You ain’t talking about the warchief are you?
Zar'Kaa says: You answer to him, don’t you?
Bakaz laughed and said he supposed Zar’Kaa could say that, but “master” wouldn’t be right. Right now, it was more of an agreement. Zar’Kaa said it was the same deal.
Bakaz says: It’s not like I have the authority to make an agreement like that. Neither did you! Especially not now. No offense.
Zar'Kaa says: Ain’t there some place you can go to find ants to pick the legs off of?
Bakaz laughed and said he never tried that before. Zar’Kaa said it seemed up his alley given it was in his nature.
Bakaz says: Oh, you don’t know anything about my nature, my friend. I can leave you be. But I did actually come to give you something you might find useful.
Zar’Kaa rolled his eyes as Bakaz reached into his bandolier and then pulled out several vials of poison that had a magical glow to it. Zar’Kaa looked closer, and he could tell there’s a spiritual nature to it that wasn’t present in normal poisons. It seemed to be distilled to be effective on demons and undead, while having little effect on normal people. Bakaz said it was made with blessed waters.
Bakaz says: You know, it’s funny, I figured it out with the help of Nyxxa. We were trying to help her get drunk given she’s not affected by conventional poisons. We had some fun experiments, you might say. But the result has been especially poignant. You have my own personal guarantee it’s effective against demons.
He said he already gave Nyxxa a few, so he didn’t need to share. Zar’Kaa asked what he wanted in return, and Bakaz said he didn’t want anything in return. Zar’Kaa said that didn’t change anything, and Bakaz assured him if he was trying to change anything, it wouldn’t be with him. Bakaz moved to slap Zar’Kaa on the back and Zar’Kaa caught his arm.
Zar'Kaa says: Too far, Bakaz.
Bakaz pulled his hand back and told him not to use all the poison in one place. He hopped back to his feet and sauntered away whistling.
Rak’Symma had been directed to the arakkoa that had come with the Horde by Arthak, and he accompanied her. Unlike the tall and elegant form of Iskar, the arakkoa were hunched and withered. They chittered amongst themselves as Rak’Symma flew in, and one of them stepped forward to speak. She had feathers with a base green that faded into orange, and she was adorned with a variety of crystals. Her eyes were bright gold.
She spoke up in Sylvan. It was a very different dialect of Sylvan, but it was still Sylvan. She asked if Symma understood the tongue, and Rak’Symma confirmed. The arakkoa asked her how she knew the tongue of the Sunbringer, and Symma explained that it was the tongue of the spirits of Azeroth.
The arakkoa was quite taken aback by the revelation, and asked if she was Rak’Symma. Symma confirmed. The arakkoa bowed to her.
Female Arakkoa says: It is an honor! I am Krisek, the Dawn-Seeker, of the Order of the Awakened. You are a harpy, yes?
Rak’Symma again confirmed after saying it was a pleasure to meet her. She asked if she could ask a stupid question, and Krisek assured her there were no stupid questions.
Rak'Symma says: Your people, the arakkoa, you have… more than one gender?
Krisek says: Yes! Do you… not?
Rak'Symma says: No.
Krisek says: Huh!
Rak'Symma says: Harpies are egg-layers.
Krisek says: I see I see! Parthenogenesis!
Symma blinked.
Krisek says: It is a term! It’s a type of reproduction that certain creatures undergo. They can lay eggs without sexual intercourse. That is fascinating! It is normally not a phenomenon seen in spoken creatures like you and I. You harpies are quite unique!
Rak'Symma says: I suppose I’ve never put much thought into it until now…
Krisek says: What can we help you with?
Rak'Symma says: Truthfully, nothing. I just wanted to meet with you. I don’t want to pry into how you became the way you are. But the way I understand it… you used to be able to fly, yes?
A sad pall came over Krisek’s face, and she confirmed.
Krisek says: It is a darkness on our history. Our people are… the hubris of my kindred have led us to great shadow. It is my hope that we may pave a brighter future for all of our kind. One that is not marred by hubris or vexation that many of our predecessors have fallen to. I was once a member of an order known as the Adherents of Rukhmar, our sun goddess. She has guided us for many years. But in recent times before the Horde, the Adherents began to grow… zealous and cruel. They began to turn on their own. Casting them from the heights of our old and ancient home, the Spires of Arakk. I and a group of others secretly reached out to the outcasts and tried to make peace. But the outcasts were hesitant to trust us, for good reason.We were high arakkoa, as we had been called, a name that drips with as much hubris and pride as I could imagine. Yet we did what we could. Some who had been afflicted joined us. But in time, when the Horde rose against the Adherents and cast all of them from their spires… we found all of us have had the sky taken from us. A punishment for our hubris. I miss my wings. The feeling of the sky. But even I believe it is a trial, a test, sent by our goddess. For what else could it be? I could not understand the plight of those who had the sky taken from them until I felt their pain, so I welcome this curse, painful as it was, so that I might understand it. In doing so, perhaps I can find a way for the sun to shine upon all of us again. With the warchief, we have made great strides and do not need to fear. Now the shadows and sun can work together. Though many outcasts refuse to work with the Horde, some of us see a light.
Another arakkoa spoke up, this one a male with purple feathers. Arthak was able to translate, as this one spoke orcish.
Male Arakkoa says: Shadows gather. I am Shadow-Sage Brakoss. I represent the outcasts. Those who have agreed to consider peace with the Order of the Awakened, in spite of everything.
He tilted his head.
Brakoss says: I must ask, that skull you carry with you. What is its significance?
Rak'Symma says: It…
She took the skull off her back and held it in front of her.
Rak'Symma says: It belonged to one of the spirits here. We call them the Wild Gods.
Brakoss croaked in curiosity and muttered words of interest. Rak’Symma explained he was incredibly dear to her.
Brakoss says: So he has passed, but his shadow lingers on you still.
Rak'Symma says: His passing was not long ago.
Brakoss says: I speak this as not an omen, but words of comfort. This creature who was dear to you. He seems to be similar to a spirit of our own. A creature that we, the outcasts, venerate. A being called Anzu. The Dark Watcher. The Raven God. The dread ravens, like the one with the mok’nathal, they are his children. Very curious. It seems your tongue of the spirits is similar to that the Dawn-Seeker can speak. The mysteries of this world continue to surprise me.
Rak’Symma said she was happy to share what she could, but they were not the only ones interested in learning about them.
Brakoss says: Iskar…
Symma nodded.
Brakoss says: We suspected he was here.
Rak'Symma says: He has demonstrated a keen interest.
Brakoss says: Watch for that one. He is cunning. I know this because he taught me everything I know. In shadows past, he led the outcasts. But when he made his dark bargain with the Shadow Council, some of us refused to follow, and we were punished for it. But the shadows have shifted, and we find ourselves in darkness safer than before.
Rak'Symma says: I can’t sympathize enough for what you have gone through, but I believe you made the right decision.
Brakoss says: You are kind to say so, but it was one made in pragmatism. Our kind has suffered. And following another false master simply because he can grant the sky helps not when it burns around you. Those of us who remain have seen this truth. And bore witness to it. That is why were are here. Though Rukhmar’s light abandoned us, there was a time long ago when Rukhmar and Anzu flew the same skies. Perhaps that twilight can shine on us once more, one day.
He looked at Krisek.
Brakoss says: But don’t get your hopes up.
His eyes crinkled in a smirk.
Rak'Symma says: I don’t think Ruhkmar abandoned you. I only heard bits and pieces of the story… there was something that happened here when the Legion threatened this land and Wild Gods put down their lives to protect it. Most of them haven’t been seen since. But they are still here.
Krisek chirped.
Krisek says: That is what I tell him! Though Ruhkmar was silenced, when she flew the skies and she gave us the fire of the sun, she did not do these things to forget us. Ruhkmar exists in our actions and warmth. Actions of the past have been cruel when we should have been seeking unity. We have been humbled, but there are others who wish us to be more than just a footnote in history. We must help one another now, or all of our worlds will be doomed. It is in that light that Ruhkmar lives! We may be living under a new sun, one that is so far different from the one we knew for so long, but its light shines still.
Rak’Symma offered that they could give the sun an offering, regardless of what it was, and if they asked for An’she’s guidance, they might give it. Krisek asked if that’s what the sun was called, and Arthak clarified that was the shu’halo’s term, but others had different names. Rak’Symma also explained the moon was called both Mu’sha and Elune, which encouraged Brakoss to also join Krisek in speaking with the others about such religions.
Krisek said it was nice to meet her and that her wings were beautiful, and Rak’Symma suddenly got very self-conscious. Arthak finished writing what he was working on in his notebook, and he ripped out a page that he handed to Krisek.
He explained it was a note for Galforr or Ariok. He wanted to requisition their services for the Ironmarch, as he wanted a study of the mythology of Azeroth and a comparison to that of Draenor. Brakoss sidled over to read over Krisek’s shoulder, and Krisek said it was an honor. Arthak said the Horde could give them as much funding as they could manage, and they’d have what texts they had sent to their quarters, and he invited them to, indeed, go speak with the shu’halo.
Krisek assured him they would and she was very excited about the entire arrangement. Arthak just requested that they keep their analysis broad.
Krisek asked Symma if they wanted to share more histories, as they would be happy to share more of their own religion and stories. Symma asked them if there was a curse that made it so their wings couldn’t be restored, and Brakoss confirmed. He explained a long time ago, Rukhmar the day, and Anzu the night, were rivals, but also siblings. However, there was a third entity. It was a dark, primal beast and an enemy of them both. He was death, blood, and cruelty along with venom and hatred. He was known as Sethe, a winged serpent of death and decay.
Brakoss said that a long time ago, when their kind was young, Sethe was an unknown. At the point where shadow and light met, Sethe hid. When the earth clashed and the mountains trembled, when the sporemound choked the word, the sky was the domain of the three. Anzu tried to broker peace between the three of them, and he called upon them to transform the lands into a sanctuary for creatures of the sky. They drove the children of stone and root from Arakk, and when they were gone, their children settled in the spires and canyons. Rukhmar owned the highest peaks, and Anzu the shadows of the mountains and cliffs. Sethe was given only the earth beneath it. The winged serpent’s wings were short and he could not fly as high as Rukhmar, and was not beloved of the dark like Anzu. He became envious, and eventually he became wrathful. He approached Anzu as a fellow denizen of darkness, and sought to turn the dread raven against Rukhmar. Anzu refused, as he held a deep love for the sun. Sethe struck, attempting to slay the sun, but Anzu had warned her, and she survived. They clashed atop the highest spires, and Rukhmar blinded Sethe and split the sky upon him. Sethe and Rukhmar fought as the spires collapsed and everything they built crumbled. They were evenly matched, but Anzu interceded and pinned Sethe to the earth before crushing him.
However, with Sethe’s dying gasp, he uttered a curse that his blood would blacken the sea, his flesh with fester the earth with decay and rot. Anzu said that he would leave no flesh or blood behind. He devoured Sethe whole.
A single drop of blood had escaped, and that was all it took to curse the forests where Sethe had died. It was said Anzu took the curse on himself and he became broken and shriveled, and Brakoss admitted now they were more Anzu’s children than Rukhmar’s, and he had hidden in the shadows since.
Though Anzu’s sacrifice stopped all of Rakshar, Draenor, from spiraling into darkness, the lands around the spires were twisted, and the outcasts were the result of those cast into the dark, cursed pits.
Brakoss says: I suppose that’s one benefit of the Shadow Council’s meddling. Our home is no more, so I must wonder what remains of Sethe’s dark curse.
Rak’Symma looked at Arthak with a silent question of if this was connected to the Red Mist. Arthak didn’t know if there was a direct connection, but there were definitely similarities. However, he was pretty sure it wasn’t the exact same thing.
Symma thanked Brakoss for sharing the story, and he said that there was more, but that got into a more significant history and he didn’t want to overwhelm her.
Rak’Symma said she wanted to do something to welcome them to the island, but she wanted to get their permission first, as she didn’t want to cause them pain. She wanted to let them fly for at least a day.
Krisek says: I… I don’t know what to say.
Brakoss says: A yes or a no would be a good place to start.
Krisek says: I know! It’s just…
Rak’Symma said she didn’t need an answer immediately, and Krisek said they would think on it, as it could potentially ferry them to the shu’halo. They just needed to wrap up their immediate business. Krisek said Symma was very kind for giving them the offer.
Arthak went to speak with Mork, who recently returned from Stormwatch. He had a missive that he could not read to deliver back to his superiors. Arthak called him over and asked him to get Mindi and Mork’s mate, Glaasha, so the three of them could meet with him in Illysanna’s office.
Arthak spoke to Illysanna to lay out his plan before the trio arrived.
Arthak explained to them that there was a task he believed Mork and Mindi were suited for, and he asked Glaasha and Mork for confirmation they had a child in the Stormreaver clan. Glaasha and Mork confirmed, and Mork believed he saw his ship close to where Stormwatch was being built.
He explained to Glaasha he didn’t want to send her mate into danger without her knowing and her understanding, but they needed information on what Gul’dan, the Stormreavers, and Shadow Council were doing.
Glaasha says: You want my little heart? My sweet tiny man? To spy for you?
Mork says: Wow. I don’t think I’ve ever been a spy before.
Mindi looked at Arthak with a clear flash of “are you fucking kidding me” in his eyes.
Mindi says: So you want both of us to go in and get information? Don’t you think that’ll be risky?
Arthak Saurfang says: There is always risk. Obviously, if you don’t want to, you can refuse. This isn’t a command. I’m asking. However, Mork, this is dangerous, you have your mate and your children. If you do not want to undertake this, there is no dishonor. You’d be honoring your family. You’d just need to go there and do as you do here, and listen and pay attention. If there is any possibility your covers are compromised, you get out.
Mork says: I’m not gonna lie, Warchief, it’s a big responsibility, and it’s pretty scary. We have a big family. Lot of kids. And while a lot of them are off on their own and making lives on their own… this could be dangerous. Arthak, when you stood up against the last warchief? I think you really changed something. Ever since we first met… it feels like a lifetime ago, but ever since then, I’ve always seen you’re a good orc. And it was mostly just a hunch back then. Just because you helped little ol’ me and Mindi on the side of the street. You didn’t have to, but you did. And now you’re taking down the warchief! How can’t I be inspired, you know? So. It is scary. I won’t lie. I’ve never done anything like this before, but this new Horde you’re making, Arthak? It’s something really beautiful. Something someone like me could have never dreamed. But you dreamed it for us. And if I could help in some small way? Well. I want to. If you can be brave enough to stick up for me, I can be brave enough to stick up for you. You know Arthak, this is pretty silly, but I think you’re the same age as my older son, so in some ways, I kind of think of you like another kid, you know? I know you’re not supposed to say that to your warchief, but I hope you forgive me. So I’ll do it. And Mindi, I’ll watch over you. If you get in trouble, I’ll bail you out, just like that one time on the island.
Mindi says: Urh… right. Just like back then!
Mindi looked exasperated. Glaasha approached Arthak and grabbed his gorgot to pull him up to her face.
Glaasha says: Let me make something perfectly clear, warchief. If my precious little man comes back with a single scratch on him, or if any of my children are put in danger because of this war, so help me spirits, I will crush every bone in your body until your screams but the Warsong’s battle chant to shame! Your ancestors’ ancestors will hear it, and I will ensure your spirit is sent screaming to the darkest pits of hell.
Arthak Saurfang says: That last one is happening, but fair enough.
Glaasha released Arthak.
Glaasha says: Okay. I’ll allow this.
She stepped back.
Mork says: Thanks honey! Your vote of confidence does a lot for me!
Glaasha smiled down at him.
Glaasha says: Come here, pookie.
She picked Mork up and they started to make out right in the middle of the room. It lasted for at least 20 seconds before she put him down again. He was blushing bright red.
Arthak asked Mork to kneel, and explained that typically their people were honored for slaying foes. The title of champion was granted to killers of great skill.
Arthak Saurfang says: There are many champions that could kill well. One before this was a good man. Rise and make two. Mork, champion of the Horde.
Mork stood, his eyes wide.
Mork says: Wow. Really??
Glaasha says: You earned this, Mork. You’ve always been my champion.
Mork says: Awee… thanks sweetie. I won’t let you down, warchief! I promise!
Mindi says: And I won’t let you down either. I’ll make sure he gets back!
Arthak and Mindi had a long moment of eye contact. Arthak pulled out a piece of paper and handed it to Glaasha. He explained they were Mork’s orders, and she was to take them to Galforr or Ariok, and they would get the process started.
Glaasha’s only request was that she, and her warg, Bloodscream the Throatripper, were on the emergency extraction team. Arthak said he would honor it, and he wished Mork the best of luck. As did Illysanna.
Arthak requested Mindi stay about some “spider related matters”. After a solid moment of Glaasha and Mork leaving, he spoke.
Mindi says: You must think you’re pretty clever, don’t you warchief?
Arthak Saurfang says: Not particularly.
Mindi says: Hm. I’ll play your game for now. Even though this isn’t what I agreed to. What did you have to talk about?
Arthak Saurfang says: Ensuring some mutual understanding. Mork is going to assume you’re his partner, you’re going to be his handler.
Mindi says: I’m well aware, Arthak, thank you for reminding me.
Arthak Saurfang says: So. Shared priorities. I don’t need to tell you this, but I want you to hear me say it. In the choice between the mission and his safety? His safety wins.
Mindi says: At least in that we agree. I hope this goes well. If it doesn’t I might be forced to lose my cover, which you understand how complicated that would make my job. But your new champion will return safely, don’t you worry.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good. I’m glad I was right about you.
Mindi says: Are you mocking me, warchief? It sounds like it.
Arthak Saurfang says: No. You’re a good friend.
Mindi visibly winced.
Arthak Saurfang says: And I am a bastard willing to capitalize on that.
Mindi says: I was just starting to like you, Arthak. Is that all you need?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Mindi says: Then we’ll catch up later after I finish this fool’s errand of yours.
Mindi stormed off, muttering something about spiders. Illysanna said the entire scene was very enjoyable. She mused it seemed that Mindi had actually grown fond of Mork, which was curious, as the nathrezim were infamous for their method acting, but it was quite the valuable tool. Arthak said he hoped Mindi would come back, and Illysanna said if not, he would die well.
Arthak Saurfang says: That’s one difference between our organizations, Slayer. For us, there is no dying well. There’s only dying.
Arthak lit a cigar and left the room.
Nyxxa gathered everyone in the Hold in the amphitheater in the evening, particularly any of those that were intending on helping to drive the Legion back from the Isles. As they were gathering, Nyxxa was fiddling with a piece of paper. There was a tad bit of nervousness, but she steeled herself.
She stepped up to address the group.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Thank you for taking a moment to listen to me, but I wanted to speak to all forces gathered here, as an emissary of the Illidari. I will not take long, for everyone here knows of the Legion presence on the Broken Isles and what is at stake here. And to those who have offered to aid in this fight, I cannot thank you enough. If we are going to win, we are going to need all the help we can get. However, I am remiss to not address the palpable tension that is not without good reason. Black Rook Hold is and will continue to be neutral ground for all parties involved. But, I understand that there may be issues if this conflict leads to certain banners fighting side by side out in the field. So, I bring forth an idea. For all forces that seek to drive back this Legion Invasion, we do under one banner with this one purpose. Parties can continue to pursue their own goals under their own name, but I believe that when making contacts toward this major goal it is going to be essential to open doors as a united front. As for a name, I propose Legionfall. But, I am also open to suggestions- to all of this. And with that, I open the floor.
Feronas Sindweller stepped up.
Feronas Sindweller says: Glory to the Illidari! Victory to Legonfall!
Other Illidari started to cheer, and Senegos, who had taken his troll form, mused it was a fine name. There were other sources of cheering, and everyone seemed to be on board.
Zar'Kaa says: It’s a good name Nyxxa. I think I can speak everyone here that we rise with the Legion’s fall, so the name is appropriate.
Nyxxa Murkthorn says: Ultimately, I wanted to make sure that everyone here knows their voice will be heard in this. Regardless of who is fighting.
Arthak offered a few thumps to his chest, then raised a hand.
Arthak Saurfang says: If we’re going to have a shared banner, then we should likely understand how everyone’s voices should be heard. Do you have an idea? It could be simple enough to just have a committee or council consisting of representatives for each faction to ensure we can get this done while staying out of each other’s way.
Velameestra’s hand lowered after Arthak spoke.
Nyxxa agreed it was wise, and Illysanna agreed. She said that she would ensure delegates from each faction were gathered, and they could sort that out to ensure the best individuals were selected. Elarisiel stepped out with a broad smile.
Elarisiel Bloodwrath says: Any new organization needs a new banner, and I’ve already made us one!
She unfurled a deep purple banner, which had a sun-like circle on it with crackling fel lightning in the center. Each symbol of those present were represented. Nyxxa had not seen this before, and Elarisiel beamed and said she hoped that she liked it.
Arthak raised his hand again, and Nyxxa called on him. He said that it should be established if there would be a pooling of resources, or just communication. Vel’s hand lowered again. Nyxxa and Illysanna agreed it was primarily just a matter of communication, and there was no need to directly share resources.
Volrath looked over at Zar’Kaa and informed him that he wanted Zar’Kaa to be the liaison for the Legionfall coalition. Vel said that she would stand in for the Reliquary until Magistrix Goldensword returned to assign an official one. Arthak said he would stand for the Horde, and Nyxxa was there for the Illidari. Rak’Symma and Sol were representing themselves.
That night, Zar’Kaa focused on Gul’dan, and he felt the warlock’s presence connect. They appeared on the top of a tall mountain with an endless starry sky above it beneath twin moons. There was a ritual space at the peak, and Gul’dan greeted him. He had wondered if Zar’Kaa was going to reach out to him, and he was glad Zar’Kaa wanted to speak.
Zar'Kaa says: Hey, Gul’dan. I meant to reach out sooner, but I’ve been preoccupied.
Gul'dan says: I understand. I’m sure you and your crew have been very busy.
Zar'Kaa says: In more sense than one.
They sat down on some orcish benches, and Zar’Kaa explained he told the crew of their arrangement. They didn’t take the news well, and he had left it up to them to decide whether or not they could live with it.
Gul'dan says: They rejected you?
Zar'Kaa says: I’m still a part of the crew, but they took my title.
Gul'dan says: I am sorry to hear that, Zar’Kaa. I only wish I was more surprised. After all, people like them can’t understand people like us. They see something that they cannot control, and they reject it. It is in their nature.
Zar’Kaa shook his head.
Zar'Kaa says: Perhaps. Perhaps it’s in ours to find our own solutions when those around us are unable to help. Whether it’s their fault or not.
Gul'dan says: Wise words. There are an unfortunately small number of people who one can truly rely on. I feared this might happen, especially once Arthak learned. I’m certain he spoke to someone in your crew and undermined your authority. It is in his nature to scheme. To break down those he seeks to control.
Zar'Kaa says: He can be a bastard at times. But in this instance, all he did was tell one of my deeds. And if that simple action was enough to sway the tide, that says more about me than what Arthak did.
Gul'dan says: No, my boy, that says more about the ignorance of the people that refuse to understand.
Zar’Kaa stood up and walked a few paces around the ritual site.
Zar'Kaa says: Gul’dan, I appreciate what you’re saying. But I have to ask you… what do you want from me? Truly? And please do not tell me that you want a friend or that you just want to show me what I’m capable of, because I have always been my biggest advocate. I know that I am capable of much. What do you want or need from me? Just tell me.
Gul’dan smiled and approached Zar’Kaa.
Gul'dan says: Zar’Kaa… I do not need anything from you. And all I want from you is what you’ve already given me. I don’t have any grand schemes or plans to manipulate you, to turn you against your people or Arthak. All I want from you is for you to see your own potential. What you do with that is for you to decide. It’s always been for you to decide.
Zar'Kaa says: To what end? Just to see what I can do? See what heights I reach? That’s what drives you?
Gul'dan says: Precisely. I see in you a young man, one who has been deprived of so many opportunities. One who has been scorned, judged for who and what he is… for a body that does not fit the mold. For a spirit that does not bow or break. I only seek to be to you, Zar’Kaa, what I would have wanted someone to be for me.
Zar’Kaa got the sense that Gul’dan wasn’t being entirely truthful, but he also wasn’t outright lying in any capacity. He nodded and sighed.
Zar'Kaa says: I know. I know… and I wish you had that too. It would have made it so much easier… and the heights you reached you wouldn’t have had to do alone. I’m sorry that’s not been the case for you.
Gul'dan says: Your sympathy is appreciated, Zar’Kaa, but you do not need to pity me.
Zar'Kaa says: It’s as you said. It’s coming from understanding, not pity. So I must also apologize for what else I’m about to say. For now, this is the last time we can meet. I thought long and hard about this. I don’t want it to end, but… the people I am with now… I want their trust. And fair or not, I can’t have it while we continue to be associated. So. For now I can’t keep coming back here. I’m sorry.
Gul'dan says: I was afraid this would happen in time, but I wish I could say I was surprised. Why do you want their trust, Zar’Kaa? What have they done to earn your trust?
Zar'Kaa says: What have I done? Yeah, I’m strong, yeah I can fight well, and yeah I have my moments where I have helped to create positive movements on my side of this war. But when everyone is telling me that they can’t trust me, they can’t all be wrong.
Gul'dan says: Can’t they? They’ve always said that about us, Zar’Kaa. They have always looked down at us. They are afraid of me, and they are afraid of you. You said yourself you don’t want this. It is your path to write, you do not need to kowtow to them or their fear… to be the person you want to be. But, I cannot change your mind. If that is what you feel is right, then I suppose this is the last time we’ll talk.
Zar'Kaa says: Unless… something changes.
Gul'dan says: You know that won’t happen, Zar’Kaa. They’ll continue to tell you how untrustworthy I am, how cruel and evil I am, and they will paint their image in your mind until you look at me with the same disdain. And it saddens me to know that is what will happen.
Zar'Kaa says: Perhaps. But as you said, I make my own path and write my own story. I too get to choose what I think of you. Regardless of the fact this is ending.
Gul'dan says: Perhaps you’re right.
Zar'Kaa says: It’s cold comfort, but it’s all I have to give.
Gul'dan says: You’ve surprised me, Zar’Kaa. Perhaps you’ll do so again. I hope you do.
Zar'Kaa says: I do too. But before this ends, I was hoping you’d answer one last question.
Gul'dan says: I fear what will happen to you Zar’Kaa. I know the Illidari believe they have mastered the fel, or others that wield it easily, but they do not understand how you are. They do not understand the storm in you and how to channel it. The least I can do is give you one last lesson. After all, I would be beside myself if their clumsy teachings were to bite back onto you. So please, ask.
Zar'Kaa says: I appreciate the warning. I guess the thing I’m wondering… this isn’t about the Mist or the Horde… I want to know, Gul’dan, why did you remain an orc? Why did you not transform further?
Gul'dan says: Ascend into a demonic form, you mean?
Zar'Kaa says: It seems to be the path people try to ascend to.
Gul'dan says: An interesting question, Zar’Kaa. I will turn it back to you. Why would you think I would make such a choice? Given what you have learned about me all this time.
Zar’Kaa considered.
Zar'Kaa says: As far as I understand, demons are the the true wielders of the fel. They are born of the Nether, the fel is a natural substance to them. You can no more separate the fel from demons than you can the earth from a planet. It is intertwined. But you can wield the fel. You can claim it and master it. I think you have remained an orc as a reminder that it does not take a demon to master it. That with enough effort, willpower, and vision, anyone can.
Gul’dan smiled.
Gul'dan says: You know me so well, my boy. That is your answer. A demon can wield the fel, but I do not need to be a demon to do so. And a demon is the fel… that is an important distinction. If a demon is the fel, and the fel can be controlled, then what does that say about the demon?
Zar'Kaa says: The demon can be controlled too.
Gul'dan says: And I shall never be controlled.
Zar'Kaa says: I can respect that. I think I understand you a little bit better. I wish you had more people that tried to understand you when you needed it most.
Gul'dan says: Alas. This has become an all too familiar scene. I sincerely hope that doesn’t become the case for you, my friend. Until we meet again, Zar’Kaa.
Gul’dan waved his hand, and he disappeared as the dreamscape faded away. There was a shift in his tone, one of disappointment and one that implied he expected this to be the last time they would speak without weapons drawn.
Nyxxa had been sent to speak with Nesslyn, and her dreamscape materialized in a stone gazebo with big cushions in the midst of an overgrown garden. Nesslyn looked around, musing it was pretty, but then she saw Nyxxa.
She apologized for everything that happen with the game at the Bloodtotem, and Nyxxa asked how she was doing as things escalated quickly. Nesslyn wanted to know why Nyxxa even wanted to know, as they were on opposite sides, and Nyxxa admitted she regretted not getting to know her better when they had the chance, and she was hoping they were treating her well.
Nesslyn admitted she had appreciated how nice Nyxxa was, and she’s kind of surprised Nyxxa was reaching out. She said everything was hard, as she had to just pick up and leave when everything happened. She was okay, for the time being. She was busy, but she shouldn’t talk about that, and Nyxxa assured her that she just wanted to know about her.
Nesslyn said she couldn’t mess things up again. Nyxxa asked why, and Nesslyn said she was on a sort of probation, and she wasn’t sure what was going to happen if the warband won. So she was nervous and worried.
Nyxxa asked her that, if she had the choice, would she be working with the Legion. Nesslyn stammered and said she would, definitely, and she didn’t really have any sort of choice. She wished she could lounge around in a bed of silk, but she couldn’t. She had to keep doing what she was doing. Nyxxa asked her why, and Nesslyn said she couldn’t fail again.
Nyxxa said she wanted to help her get that choice, but Nesslyn insisted that wasn’t possible. Nyxxa said she knew what it was like to be trapped in a place she didn’t want to be, and she didn’t like seeing people in the place she once was, but if there was a chance she could help her, she wanted to try.
Nesslyn told her not to say that, because it might get in her head, and she couldn’t have that. She needed to focus on what she was doing. She knew Nyxxa was trying to be nice, but she couldn’t have it. Nyxxa said she wasn’t going to force her, but she wanted to know how she could help her.
Nesslyn said it wasn’t possible. She was bound to a warlock, and if she ran away from the coven, she’d just be summoned back, and the Queen of Bones would always be able to find her. She would just keep taking more.
Nesslyn curled into a ball, and Nyxxa moved down to put a hand on her shoulder. Nyxxa said she would do what she could to see if there was a way, and if she found one, she would contact her again.
Nesslyn, hesitantly, agreed. Nyxxa apologized, and Nesslyn acknowledged she was just trying to help. Her eyes were wild with fear and tears. Nyxxa promised she’d do everything she could to unbind her, and Nesslyn asked if she got free. Nyxxa told her she did, and Nesslyn started to just sob.
Rak’Symma reached out to Iskar in her dreams. She had learned to sort of control the dreamscape, and she created an open plain surrounded by mountains and crags. She realized it was a place she had been before in Highmountain.
Iskar appeared soon after. He frilled his feathers.
Iskar says: How delightful! Why Rak’Symma! It’s so good to see you again!
Rak'Symma says: And this time it was intentional.
Iskar put his talon over his chest and said it was delightful she had mastered her gift. Rak’Symma explained she didn’t want him to think that she had forgotten about him, but there were some things that she wanted to say to him. Iskar was happy to hear it. Rak’Symma said she had met Gul’dan, and Iskar mused he was quite a scholar and they had many conversations. However, she had an additional note to add.
Rak'Symma says: I don’t like you.
Iskar’s beak opened with a surprised caw.
Rak'Symma says: And I mean those words in the plainest words. You aren’t special. There are more people I dislike. I don’t like your vested interest in me, and I don’t like what you did in Highmountain, and I don’t want to hear your theories or your ideas concerning me. However, I know what it’s like to come somewhere new and to be curious, especially if you can find parallels in what you once knew. So there are things I would speak to you about, and show you, but only if you agree not to focus it back on me.
Iskar clucked his beak and agreed. He also extended an apology, as it wasn’t his intention to make her feel uncomfortable. However, he would be honored for the conversation to follow her pace. Rak’Symma smiled, and the scenery shifted.
They were high above the clouds in the midst of the evening, and both moons shone brilliantly above them along with a sea of stars.
Rak'Symma says: I can’t fault you for having interest in this world. It’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. I would be keen to show you most all you wish to see. But I can’t do that if all that’s left of it is plague and rot and destruction. That was what the Crawliac wove. That is what the Legion brings. And if you stay with them, then all this beautiful wonder won’t exist.
Iskar mused as he flapped his wings, looking around at the scene. He said the High Crawliac was an interesting woman, and her vision for the world was unique, but he knew it wasn’t sustainable. She was interesting, but he had never believed she was going to succeed. However, he understood where Rak’Symma was coming from. After all, it wasn’t easy to trust someone like him given he was working with her enemies.
Rak’Symma countered that Iskar’s actions had nearly resulted in the death of a god, and Iskar asked if she had ever wondered what happened to a god’s divine spark when they died.
Rak’Symma sighed and formed the clouds into benches that they could sit on in the midst of the air, realizing the angle the conversation had started to head.
Iskar continued to muse on where that divine spark went, as there had been much query. However, he acknowledged that he gave the Crawliac the power to imprison a god, and he had no remorse for doing so, even if he was glad Rak’Symma saved her, as he learned far more by the fact that she did. However, he wanted to know what Rak’Symma was hoping to get out of the conversation, as the temptation of knowledge was like an irresistible scent to him, and she clearly had picked up on that.
Rak’Symma asked him why he made the choice he did, and Iskar said he was like the outcasts of his kindred, but the Shadow Council had given him a new opportunity. Symma asked him if the fel was the only thing that could have restored his wings, and he admitted he didn’t know. He didn’t even know what the fel did, in truth, as there were any number of possibilities, including transmutation, an illusion, or the idea that he was not even the real Iskar any longer.
Rak’Symma said she felt there might be something else that could be done for the others, and Iskar mused there could be, even if he didn’t know. However, in regards to divinity, she believed that the divinities were always around them, even after death, even if they couldn’t see them. Iskar countered with the question of what if they could find them, and Symma didn’t believe they could unless they wanted to be found.
Iskar asked Symma if he could show her something, and Symma relented that he could. He held out a talon, and the harpy hesitantly took it. She felt Iskar’s mind open up and swallow her in a dream within a dream. He was there beside her, but they were soaring in a dark, starless sky with lights that spiraled past them.
There was a cloud of misty darkness all around them, and Rak’Symma squeezed Iskar’s hand tighter. He assured her that he had her.
They suddenly came to a stop in an endless, cosmic nothingness, and Symma felt a deep, profound emptiness and listlessness. Then she saw something flickering in the shadows. It was darkness made manifest.
There were two twisted, bent wings. The shadow of a raven. Rak’Symma realized it was Anzu. The longer she looked, the harder it was to see him as her perceptions began to twist and betray her.
Suddenly, they arrived back in Rak’Symma’s own dreamscape, and the harpy shook off her disorientation. Rak’Symma asked Iskar if that was actually Anzu, or just one of his illusions, and he said it was an illusory representation of what he had priorly seen.
Rak’Symma turned away and started to dab tears away from her eyes, and Iskar assured her it hadn’t been his intention to make her cry. He admitted he didn’t know all the truths of the world, but he knew where Anzu was, and that was something worth sharing.
Rak’Symma asked if, with Draenor destroyed, he even had somewhere to return to, and Iskar admitted Anzu no longer had a home, and it saddened him. Symma asked if the gods came back, and their worlds were destroyed, where would they ever go back to? And if their only fate was to drift like Anzu seemed to be. She emphasized if that was the case, she doubly could not allow the Legion to win.
Iskar admitted he was drawn to their conversations, despite the fact she didn’t like him, and he wanted to understand her. Symma admitted she didn’t dislike people forever. Iskar asked her how he could earn back her grace, and Symma didn’t have an answer. However, if she thought of something, she’d tell him.
Iskar said he looked forward to it, and their interaction had been quite fun. They bid each other farewell. When Rak’Symma woke up, she had found herself dreaming of the dark figure in the realm of darkness that Iskar had called the Shadow Realm.
Arthak had conjured his own dreamscape and reached out to Dal’rend Blackhand. The other orc walked up the stairs of the tower that Arthak had manifested.
Dal'rend Blackhand says: Arthak. I presume this is some sort of magic? What do you want?
Arthak Saurfang says: Just checking in, Rend. What’s your title now? Are you warchief or something else?
Dal'rend Blackhand says: I am. Of the one who stayed, at least. We call ourselves the Horde, but that might get confusing. Call us what you want. Shadow Horde. Dark Horde. It doesn’t matter.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well then, warchief, would you like to take a seat? The fire’s warm.
Rend said he didn’t really want to, as Arthak knew where he stood, and nothing had changed on his end. They exchanged vague recounts of their experiences, which was largely the same: hectic, and violent in short stints of time, as was the nature of war. Rend then asked why Arthak reached out to him, as if it wasn’t just a social call, he wanted Arthak to just say what he wanted.
Arthak Saurfang says: You never told me why you chose your side.
Dal'rend Blackhand says: No. But if you want that answer, you’ll have to impress me. Maybe by the end of this campaign, I’ll tell you, if you haven’t figured it out yourself.
Arthak Saurfang says: Okay. I don’t want to kill you, Rend.
Dal'rend Blackhand says: I don’t know what I want from you, Arthak. You did kill my father, so I suppose a small part of me wants to kill you. But more importantly, you’re an enemy warchief. There are only a few ways this will end.
Arthak Saurfang says: True.
Dal'rend Blackhand says: You do have a track record of slaying Blackhands, after all. But we will see. After all, Jubei’thos may get you before I get the chance.
Arthak suspected he was looking forward to it, and Rend admitted more than he or Arthak could understand. Arthak asked if Rend drank, as he himself didn’t, and Rend countered he should if he was going to be warchief.
Dal'rend Blackhand says: Arthak, why are you trying so hard? I know why you slew my father, I can think of several reasons that you stand against Gul’dan, but why are you reaching out to me, truly? When we last spoke, I didn’t get the full answer. You and I aren’t friends, Arthak. We are anything but. As a child, I tormented you. I know we were children, but I did so nonetheless. My brother was not much better. In fact he was worse.
Arthak Saurfang says: Do you want a clue, or should I just tell you?
Dal'rend Blackhand says: Lets make it a game, given we’re already playing one. Perhaps at the end of this road, we can give each other our answers.
Arthak Saurfang says: I don’t think I have much patience for games, so I’ll just tell you. It’s not just one reason. You said you never got a choice. What happened with Maim… you said he was not the same. Dranosh and Maim… they were not the same, but it was close enough for me. And I can understand what it’s like to feel like you don’t have any good choices. The things you’ve done, I’ve done much the same, maybe worse. The fact of the matter is that you’ve lost enough, and that bothers me. I’m also very tired of killing my own people. Despite the fact I’m good at it, I’m growing tired of killing, and that includes you.
Rend laughed.
Dal'rend Blackhand says: I believe you chose the wrong profession, warchief.
Arthak Saurfang says: I didn’t choose any of this for my own happiness.
Dal'rend Blackhand says: No, you didn’t. But you did choose it. Like you said, you know what it’s like to not have a choice. We’ll speak again, Arthak. Maybe on the battlefield, maybe not. But at the end of this game, there will be a winner, and a loser. We’ll see where those pieces fall.
Arthak Saurfang says: We will. That’s it then?
Rend nodded, and then turned to leave. Arthak continued smoking as he looked out of the tower. It seemed that Rend didn’t respond to any of Arthak’s statements, but it was because the reasons were exactly what he expected. Arthak also sensed that even if Arthak had asked Rend to stay and drink, Rend wouldn’t have stayed, not because he wouldn’t have enjoyed it, but because he had other reasons to not want to.
