Appearing Characters: Arthak Saurfang, Bakaz, Bru'kan, Euryale Vashj, Ger'hel, Hooktusk, Lantresor, Nyxxa, Rekki, S'theno Vashj, Sol'chi, Volrath, Zar'Kaa, Zekhan, Zuni
October 27th
As some orcs got to work repairing the ships, Nyxxa pulled Sol’chi aside.
Nyxxa says: Sol… though you said you’re doing okay, I heard that was pretty bad…
Sol'chi says: I’m fine. Really. Just knocked the wind out of me.
Nyxxa says: I still worry… but, just in case… I was wondering if you wanted to take this?
Nyxxa pulled a bauble from her tail and held it out.
Nyxxa says: I think it would be more useful to you than I.
Sol'chi says: Uh, yeah, I could use that.
Nyxxa says: I know it’s not your aesthetic. If you wanted to take the enchantment and transfer it, that’s fine too, but…
Sol'chi says: It’s fine. I can put it somewhere. Besides, moving enchantments is also expensive. Thank you. If you need it back later I’ll have it for you.
Nyxxa says: I’ll be fine. Unless I get another curse… but lets work on one at a time!
Sol'chi says: Let's see what we can work out of that… naga. Not a sea elf, I guess, naga.
Nyxxa says: breaking tradition with that one! But, take care of yourself.
Sol'chi says: I’m trying my best. I have plenty of escape plans.
They then joined Arthak to go speak to Zar’Kaa following the altercation with Bakaz. They found him tending to the wounds of some of his crew and refugees after they were directed to him by Zuni. Zuni happily introduced himself to the group and thanked them for their help in chasing off the naga. Arthak had caught Zekhan glancing in his direction, but it was unclear what the troll was looking for.
Rekki, a thin forest troll with greenish-teal fur, was helping Zar’Kaa with her own medical skills. Fortunately, no one had been critically injured, and were largely just scuffed and bruised. Their most recent patient got a stern order from Rekki to not put any pressure on their leg, as it seemed that the refugee’s leg had been broken. Zar’Kaa glanced at the war band as he noticed their approach and stood up.
Zar'Kaa says: Zuni… you brought the newcomers?
Zuni says: yeah, they wanted to talk to you. As long as things are stable down here.
Zar'Kaa says: I think we got it. Feel free to make yourself useful, we’ll go have a chat.
Zuni gave the war band a farewell and headed over to Zekhan to see what he could do to help. Zar’Kaa watched him for a long moment before refocusing his attention on the newcomers. Arthak asked if there was a place that could be private, and Zar’Kaa led them to the captain’s quarters.
Volrath caught Zar’Kaa’s eyes and there was a moment of silent communication between them as they prepared themselves for potential trouble. Volrath decided to stand near the quarters just in case he heard weapons drawn. Inside the captain’s quarters, there was everything one would expect, as well as a work bench with herbs and other medical supplies. There was no bed, as it seemed Zar’Kaa did not actually sleep there.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. You can have a seat. You can stand. Doesn’t matter. If you don’t mind, I’m going to be doing things while we talk. There’s always things to do.
Zar’Kaa grabbed some bandages from his workbench and started to work on patching up his own scrapes.
Zar'Kaa says: So. What can I do for you?
Arthak Saurfang says: Well. Given we are going to be working together for the time being, I thought it best if we had a general conversation. Introducing ourselves and also discussing the altercation with Bakaz.
Zar'Kaa says: Well.
Zar’Kaa wasn’t looking at them as they spoke.
Zar'Kaa says: Introduce yourself all you want, but when it comes to the cold-blooded murderer in your ranks, there’s nothing I need to tell you. It’s none of your business.
Arthak Saurfang says: Fair. But, given he’s one of my people and you have declared an interest in killing him, that does make it my business. I would be interested in hearing the circumstances that led to the bad blood you harbor towards him.
Zar’Kaa looked up at the group.
Zar'Kaa says: You don’t know much about Amani do you?
Arthak Saurfang says: I know a decent bit, but I am always learning.
Zar'Kaa says: Always learning. So, I take it then, you haven’t learned about all the things they did during the last troll wars? All the people they needlessly slaughtered? I take it that your friend Bakaz hasn’t told you what happened to the Revantusk, if you know who they are, or rather, were.
Arthak Saurfang says: I am familiar with the history of the troll wars, including the Amani, specifically Zul’jin. I also know you people are the Darkspear.
Zar'Kaa says: Nice and caught up, aren’t you? Well. It might behoove you to know that because of the troll wars–which the Amani had a large hand in–we were displaced and scattered across the entire world. We were in a place of destitution and despair. To make matters worse, the Amani haven’t changed their ways.
Arthak Saurfang says: So. That’s why you’re going home now, I imagine? Reuniting these scattered people?
Zar'Kaa says: it might be. But that’s not the question you asked.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’d be interested in hearing the story. The specifics, if you don’t mind.
Zar’Kaa finished patching himself up and grabbed a whetstone to start sharpening his spear.
Arthak Saurfang says: About ten years ago. I was still pretty young. We were sailing around the northern part of the eastern continent. We needed resources. A place to lay up on the land. So I took a scouting party into the woods–the Eversong Woods in case you aren’t familiar. As we traveled–we weren’t there looking for a fight, just scouting–Bakaz’s group of savages came upon us. He wiped up my entire group.
Zar’Kaa ground his teeth.
Zar'Kaa says: Then he tortured me, knowing full well that I had nothing to give him that was advantageous. Nothing that would help him. He took pleasure in it, and he took pleasure in telling me about my brothers and sisters who were slaughtered. I was able to escape, but I didn’t forget. The price has yet to be paid for that injustice. Does that satisfy your question?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. I’m sorry for your losses.
Zar'Kaa says: Oh, you’re sorry, right…
Arthak Saurfang says: Believe me or not. War is… frequently ugly and always complicated.
Zar'Kaa says: I think in this case it’s pretty simple. He has blood on his hands that has yet to be answered for. All those people? Their families? They didn’t even have bodies to bury. No closure. Nothing. Those wounds still exist amongst my tribe. Do you think your psychopath pet cares about that? No. He doesn’t give a shit.
Arthak Saurfang says: I intend to ask him and find out. Thank you for telling me. I’ll be interested to speak with Bakaz about this.
Zar'Kaa says: And if he tells you the same thing I have, what then? Gonna give him a pet on the back? Say it’s alright? That it was years ago and it has nothing to do with your, what do you call it, Horde?
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m not sure yet.
Zar'Kaa says: Ah, not sure yet. Well, let me tell you what I’m sure of. Eventually, he’s mine. I don’t give a fuck about the rest of your Amani, but I’ll come for him, whether he wants to duel me or not. I don’t care.
Arthak Saurfang says: I understand, and I assume nothing I can say can dissuade you from this course of action?
Zar'Kaa says: Depends on what you’re trying to convince me of. Talk plainly. I don’t need rituals or double-talk. Say what you want.
Arthak Saurfang says: I would like you to not try and kill Bakaz.
Zar'Kaa says: Let me guess, if I do you’ll stand in my way?
Arthak Saurfang says: Amongst others, quite likely, yes.
Zar’Kaa grabbed a dart from his work bench and hurled it right past Arthak’s head where it then stuck in the wood paneling behind him. Nyxxa started to try an intercept, but it was clear Zar’Kaa was very fast.
Zar'Kaa says: See, right there, I could have just poisoned you. And who would have been around to get it out of you on my ship?
Arthak chuckled.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good throw.
Nyxxa exhales in relief as she realized it was meant to miss Arthak.
Arthak Saurfang says: I would hope it would be a good poison.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m gonna tell you right now, I don’t like threats. I don’t care if Bakaz is your new plaything, if I have to get past you to get to him, I will. It may not be today, it may not be tomorrow, but I will. If you want to prepare for me, feel free. I’ve faced more than you.
Arthak Saurfang says: Alright. One more question. What would you like me to do with the refugees after this happens?
Zar'Kaa says: What do you mean?
Arthak Saurfang says: When you and your warriors are all dead, what would you like me to do with the refugees? Where would you like me to take them so they can be dropped off safely.
Zar'Kaa says: You think I would let you take *any* of my people? Ha. That’s good. You just pop into my world and suddenly you want to help me?
Arthak Saurfang says: I would like to.
Zar'Kaa says: Let me get this straight. You want to work together with my crew while also threatening to take them somewhere?
Arthak Saurfang says: Where you want me to take them. Would you object to me outlining the situation if that would help you clarify your answer?
Zar'Kaa says: Illuminate me.
Arthak Saurfang says: Thank you. Should you attempt to kill Bakaz, I have an entire ship full of Amani that look to him for leadership and are here because of him. Whatever your intentions, they will not stand idly by. They are no doubt making their own plans because of that prior display. They will get involved, and most likely your own warriors won’t stand idly by while you are threatened as well. At that point, me and my ships will also get involved. I’m not insulting your warriors, but you are outnumbered and outgunned. You may deal us casualties, and perhaps you may kill Bakaz, but all your warriors will die with you, and the refugees will have no one to help them. That is why I am asking. I would like to have a plan in place if this happens.
Zar’Kaa grips his spear tighter, and he is clearly bothered by the sentiment.
Sol'chi says: In other words, pick your battles, time and place… from what I’ve been able to see of Bakaz, he seemed nice enough. He sounds like an all-around prick in your story, and he’s sort of a prick. But I don’t think he’ll let you do what you want. Maybe he’ll find you. So. Pick your battles and don’t let anyone know!
Arthak looked at Sol.
Sol'chi says: I’m not a part of the Horde, I’m just your friend!
Arthak Saurfang says: …thanks for your support.
Nyxxa says: Question. Were you aware this Horde is the one that conquered the Eversong Woods? I know it’s not something you’ve heard of, but it’s not to be taken lightly. I have no love for torture, and I can empathize with you, but we have things we need to do.
Arthak Saurfang says: We need Bakaz to do them.
Zar’Kaa was clearly taking a moment to process that revelation, and he loosened the grip on his spear.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay… so. Now I understand my predicament. You are aiming a loaded gun at my people to force us to work together to free the same people. Are you all this insane where you come from?
Nyxxa says: I think the implication is that this will only be an issue if you make it one.
Sol'chi says: The situation is more you and your friends are standing under a load, and there’s a knot in front of you. If you cut that knot, the load is gonna fall on you. Terrible analogies. I love them.
Zar’Kaa blinks.
Nyxxa says: Plus, you mentioned you don’t like threats, but you’ve made an awful lot of them.
Zar'Kaa says: I didn’t strike the first blow. But I get it. While you and are working together to take back my, and perhaps some of your, people from Zar’jira, neither me nor any of my crew will launch any assault on your pet Amani. But I need you to do one thing.
Arthak Saurfang says: What is that?
Zar'Kaa says: On this mission… you keep your Amani back. I can hold my spear, I’m not going to work with them. If you want them to do other tasks for you, that’s your business, but they do not get a hand in freeing my people.
Arthak Saurfang says: A strange request. But… I will take it under advisement. I still need to speak with Bakaz.
Zar'Kaa says: Take it under advisement. Wonderful. Does that mean our business for now is concluded?
Arthak Saurfang says: I believe mine is.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. If we’re still in this, we’re going to need to go after the prisoners soon. We need a plan first.
Nyxxa says: Well then, we’ll likely reconvene shortly to speak to the prisoner then.
Zar'Kaa says: Fine. I got to talk to my people first. I’ll join you on Hooktusk’s ship in a while.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well. Thank you.
The war band left the captain’s quarters and Nyxxa glanced over at Arthak.
Nyxxa says: I’ve got really bad luck at preventing assassination attempts at you. I’m zero for three.
Arthak Saurfang says: That was merely a threat. I don’t think you can count that one.
Volrath was leaning against a wall nearby as they left, clearly watching them. Arthak went to find Lantresor and Ger’hel and informed them that they had an assignment for the pair of them. He referenced the altercation between Zar’Kaa and Bakaz, and Ger’hel immediately asked if Zar’Kaa needed to be eliminated. Arthak said that it would hopefully not be the case, but he still wanted the pair of them to watch Zar’Kaa and ensure he stayed true to his word that he would not cause any problems. Lantresor asked Arthak what kind of approach he wanted, and Arthak said that he trusted their judgements, though he did not want them to act against Zar’Kaa unless he made an attempt on Bakaz.
Lantresor says: He seems to have a great deal of rage pertaining to this individual… perhaps I can speak to him later and find the source of it. I know a thing or two about internalized rage, I’ve been doing that for perhaps more years than he’s been alive. I must admit I’m no expert at identifying how old trolls are… but perhaps we can find common ground.
Arthak Saurfang says: We actually have been elucidated on that.
Arthak explained the situation and said he planned on speaking to Bakaz as well to get his side of the story.
Ger'hel says: I will obey your commands, warchief, but if I can speak my mind. I understand the desire for vengeance. There may be a time we are forced to choose: the Darkspear or Bakaz. They are both outsiders. It might be wise to examine our options, and if the axe must come down, we should be the ones to decide. Whatever is best for your Horde. That is my wisdom.
Arthak Saurfang says: it is valuable wisdom. That is part of why I wish to speak with Bakaz on this. Hopefully it will not come to that, but should that decision need to be made, I do not wish to make it in ignorance.
Ger’hel nods.
Lantresor says: Let us banish such ignorance with learning. It shall be done, Arthak.
After the war band had left Zar’Kaa, he heard a voice as Bru’kan made himself known.
Bru'kan says: Well. They’re quite interesting, aren’t they?
He materialized floating in the air as if he was lounging in a hammock.
Zar'Kaa says: if by interesting you mean they like to defend cold-blooded murderous pieces of shit, yeah interesting.
Bru'kan says: I think you missed the forest for the trees. I know you got history with Bakaz, but what they’re saying about all this… if they are working with Bakaz, what are you going to do about it? Say he joins this Horde and you go your separate ways? Then what?
Zar'Kaa says: After we complete the mission? Track him down. Get him isolated. Take him out.
Bru'kan says: Then what?
Zar'Kaa says: Then the due is paid. What are you not understanding, old man? It’s your people too who got killed. You knew some of them.
Bru'kan says: I do! I left them behind when I came here to watch your back.
Zar'Kaa says: …right.
Bru’kan sat up and crossed his legs.
Bru'kan says: Say you succeed and make yourself scarce. The warchief knows you hate him. Who do you think he’s going to go looking for?
Zar'Kaa says: He doesn’t know this world. He doesn’t know where our people lay their heads. He doesn’t know the Echo Isles or even Kalimdor. And who says I’m the only one that has bad blood with Bakaz? I’m sure he’s stepped on more than a few toes.
Bru'kan says: Sure. But what if they find out who it was?
Zar'Kaa says: What? Come across the entire sea to get me?
Bru'kan says: Someone will. Will you go across the entire sea to get Bakaz?
Zar’Kaa looked down and grit his teeth.
Bru'kan says: If you knew where to find him, you would. If you knew Bakaz had something valuable he wanted to protect, and if you took it, it would hurt him, what would you do?
Zar'Kaa says: Like what?
Bru'kan says: Anything. A child. A love. A treasure. A tribe. If they can’t find you, who do they go after next?
Zar'Kaa says: This is obviously an imposing war-like force. They may have helped us, but they got into a war with the elves and it sounds like they won. Who says they won’t go after someone else? I don’t even know this Arthak guy.
Bru'kan says: Maybe you should change that.
Zar'Kaa says: I should get to know the man protecting the man that killed our people?
Bru'kan says: Why not? What else are you going to do? Throw a dart at him? If you had poisoned him, there were two other people here. You can’t take all of them.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m on my ship.
Bru'kan says: Surrounded by their ships.
Bru’kan waved his hands and summoned a spectral pond.
Bru'kan says: One little action...
He dropped a pebble in the pond.
Bru'kan says: Ripples further than you see, Zar’Kaa.
Zar'Kaa says: I see what you’re saying. I’m a product of it, in case you don’t remember what happened when I came back alone. I remember you had something to say about it. So yes, I was this ripple in the pond, and I floated all the fuck away for years. Because of him.
Bru'kan says: So what do you want to do? What is the next ripple going to be? Is the tide going to bring you back, or is it going to start the wave that wipes them out? That’s for you to decide, Zar’Kaa.
Zar'Kaa says: Whatever you say, Bru’kan. Can we save the pep talk for later? If you don’t mind?
Zar’Kaa waved his spare.
Bru'kan says: You are fierce like a raptor, but there’s a lot that can be learned from goats. They’re delicious for one, but they got them eyes on the sides of their heads. You know why that is? So they can see everything coming after them.
Zar'Kaa says: I was going to say because it was an adaptation that made sense in the context of how they grew up. But we’ll go with that.
Bru'kan says: For how much you think, you don’t know anything.
Bru’kan disappeared, and Zar’Kaa headed out from the captain’s quarters to gather up some of his trusted crew mates. They met back at the captain’s quarters.
Volrath crossed his arms.
Volrath says: Well. No one drew steel.
Volrath plucked the dart from the wall.
Volrath says: For the most part. So things went well?
Zar'Kaa says: If by well you mean they threatened us back, yeah that went great.
Zekhan says: They threatened us? What did they say?
Zar'Kaa says: Volrath, you were there for it, so you know. But Zuni, Zekhan, I told you guys about Bakaz before. He’s here. He’s with them.
He gestured at the door.
Zar'Kaa says: He’s still just walking around. I took exception to that, and in turn their leader, this Arthak, told me that we would end up in a stand-off if I went for Bakaz, and his people would go for us, and it would be a massacre. There would be no one left to help the refugees.
Zekhan says: He said he would spare the refugees?
Zar'Kaa says: If you believe that. I know they helped us, and I’m grateful for that, but why do that and make a threat? They’re allied with the Amani. They’re content with letting him go unpunished, which tells me they’ll take anyone and don’t care what they’ve done. They could have done anything, and they’ll take them.
Volrath says: I don’t know much about the practice, but they have demons among them. If the reputation is to be believed, that’s not surprising.
Zar'Kaa says: Demon. That doesn’t sound like any species I’ve heard of.
Volrath says: They are beings summoned from beyond the veil. I don’t know much about them…
Zekhan says: I don’t know much either. I just know that some magi will bind them to their service. They are powerful loa of evil from what I know… but neither of the ones we met seem that nefarious.
Volrath says: Regardless, Bakaz is not a demon.
Zar'Kaa says: Worse. He’s an Amani.
Volrath chuckles.
Volrath says: Let me swap the situation. I killed a lot of people in the war. Elves. Dwarves. Humans. Imagine our armada of Darkspear sailed into the protection of an elven vessel, and their captain came to you and demanded my head for killing their family, what would you do? Would you turn me over to them?
Zar'Kaa says: It’s not the same.
Volrath says: Isn’t it?
Zar'Kaa says: No. Because we weren’t in those woods to kill anyone. Bakaz and his merry savages slaughtered everyone. Not for any advantage. Not because they eliminated some threat–
Volrath says: But because you trespassed into their territory. The forest trolls have been waging a war for as long as their empire existed. You are no ally to them. I’m not justifying what they did. They killed our people, and you were banished from the tribe–personal opinions aside, I understand the upset, but if the roles were reversed I don’t believe we would act any differently. I believe Bakaz should be made to serve justice, but that justice shouldn’t put our people in jeopardy. We are not a fighting force, and this Horde… if this is even the majority of their fighting force, we Darkspear wouldn’t be able to stand against them. If they sail for the Echo Isles, it would be over. We should be making friends, not enemies.
Zar'Kaa says: Okay. Well. At the very least, we have to stick around with them for the next few days. Maybe more.
Volrath says: Maybe less.
Zar'Kaa says: When we part ways, it would be helpful to know more about this… Horde. Keep them on our radar. Even if I, say, don’t poke the bear, they could still be a threat. So. Zuni. You seem to have made their acquaintance already. At least Arthak, Nyxxa, and Sol?
Zuni says: That’s right! I talked to them a bit.
Zar'Kaa says: I want you to make yourself known. Don’t tell them too much, but tell them enough they get to know who we are. Maybe they’ll see what makes us different than the Amani. Zekhan, you help too, but I want you to learn more about these demons. They are… not exactly inviting creatures. We need to know their nature and culture. Volrath, you take point.
Volrath says: I’ll try to get a measure of their warchief. He seems to be a lynchpin.
Zar'Kaa says: Maybe once the dust settles I’ll speak to him more.
Zekhan says: I’ve seen some among them that seem to have a different shamanic practice. They too seem to manipulate the elements. I’ll see what they know and learn how they operate.
Zar'Kaa says: Alright. Just don’t push too hard for.
Zuni says: I think we’re worried too much about this, brother. They helped us! I know the Bakaz situation is complicated, but call it a gut instinct, I think this is an opportunity. But I won’t let you down.
Zar'Kaa says: I know you won’t. I know none of you will. Just don’t put yourselves to unnecessary risks. If it comes to that, leave it to me.
The group nods.
Zuni says: Got it, captain!
Zar'Kaa says: Also, Zuni, can I have a quick word with just you?
Zuni says: Yeah!
Zekhan and Volrath left, leaving just the pair.
Zuni says: What did you want to talk about?
Zar'Kaa says: You did well when we were attacked.
Zuni says: Yeah, I just was protecting the ships.
Zar'Kaa says: You took some bad hits. Are you alright?
Zuni says: Pffft, I’m fine! Ain’t my first combat. I’m fine, really, nothing will stick.
Zar'Kaa says: Zuni. it’s my job to worry. You aren’t just my crew mate, you’re my friend, and… look. I don’t want to get into all this, and I know I’ve made things awkward, but… next time we fight, hang back a little okay? I can’t bring you back as a corpse.
Zuni scratched the back of his head.
Zuni says: Man. The stuff from befor eis water under the bridge, don’t worry about it, but… I know you’re one of the best fighters on the ship, but I ain’t just a kid. Besides you and Volrath, I’m one of the best arms we got. I don’t just throw myself into things for no reason, but they were surrounding Zekhan. What was I supposed to do? Zar’Kaa, brother, you’re not the only one that gets to put their life in danger. We’re all here for a reason. If I get scraped a little bit, that ain’t nothing. I don’t want to die either, you know that.
Zar'Kaa says: Of course I do.
Zuni says: Zar’Kaa, you’re the captain. You can’t be giving me special treatment. I know we’re friends and there’s that other stuff, but I don’t want to make you make mistakes. You gotta trust me, bro. I hear you though. I’ll try to be safe, but you better do the same. You’re the captain.
Zar’Kaa shakes his head.
Zar'Kaa says: I’m not gonna die, Zuni. I’ve been able to flip my way out of every situation so far. It’s my job to worry, okay. I want you to do what you do best and not worry.
Zuni chews on his lip.
Zuni says: Alright, man. I hope you’re right. I’m gonna go make myself useful, yeah?
Zuni flashed a smile and headed off, and Zar’Kaa sighed.
Zar'Kaa says: So do I.
Arthak, Nyxxa, and Sol went to talk to Bakaz, and they were welcomed onto Bakaz’s ship where they found Bakaz in the captain’s quarters doing trick shots with hand axes at a target.
Bakaz says: I was wondering when you guys were going to show up. Let me guess, you want to talk about my tearful reunion? Please. Make yourselves comfortable!
Arthak places himself next to the window so that he could continue smoking.
Arthak Saurfang says: So. He gave us… well, lets start with the most pertinent part. He got him to agree to not try anything.
Bakaz says: Really? Good! Real good. Glad to hear it. Hate to kill him.
Arthak Saurfang says: As would I. So, for the moment, that situation is as taken care of as it can be. Just so you are aware, I have Ger’hel and Lantresor keeping an eye on things to ensure that, should my judgement be wrong, it will not go without intervention.
Bakaz says: I hope it doesn’t cause you too much trouble, boss man. Blast from the past. What are the chances?
Arthak Saurfang says: Greater than you think.
Bakaz says: Fate has a crazy way of working, doesn’t it?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes. So. We heard his recounting of your meeting.
Bakaz says: Sure that was colorful.
Arthak Saurfang says: Quite.
Bakaz says: You want to know my side?
Arthak Saurfang says: I would.
Bakaz says: Lets see… think it was probably maybe ten years ago? Maybe more. Lost track. Was working for a small time chieftain of the Amani. Darkspear weren’t the only trolls that got displaced. A lot of forest troll groups had gotten subsumed by the Armani’s warbands with Zul’jin. Some slipped the noose after, most didn’t. I was one of the lieutenants of a boss named Zul’Marosh. Boar of a man, and not the good way. Bloodthirsty and enthusiastic war-bringer. We were on the reaches of Eversong near Zeb’watha. He and his boys had a shoot first, ask questions after policy. Truth be told, were I not there, I don’t think Zar’Kaa would be around. They take heads. Some of their witch doctors can peel answers from the dead. Now, I could too, but I wasn’t going to tell them that. So yeah. He and his scouting party stumbled into the chieftain’s lands, and my crew found them. Rounded them up, killed some, poisoned others so they wouldn’t get away. Typical stuff. Boss expected answers. Wanted to know what a group of jungle trolls were doing deep in our territory. I got what I could. Only he survived. The other ones either got themselves killed trying to run, pissed off the wrong troll, or broke under the questioning. If it’s any consolation, Zul’marash is feeding the lynxes now too. A few years after, the sucker lowered his guard, and I decided to seek different employment, if you get my meaning. I’m sure that wouldn’t do much to assuage his fears. I met the others after the fact. They were Amani through and through. As far as folks like Zul’Marosh was concerned, there was never a second troll war. The first one never ended. I wasn’t a gracious host to Zar’Kaa and his little fishies, but I don’t have hard feelings. That’s all ancient history. I’m glad he’s doing well! He got a whole ship! It almost makes you feel nostalgic, in a way.
Arthak didn’t see anything that would contradict what Zar’Kaa was saying, but he also picked up that Bakaz was not someone that really felt guilt, nor did he not enjoy what he did. Nyxxa picked up that Bakaz was brushing off the situation as no big deal for himself, though he knew it definitely was for Zar’Kaa. Sol didn’t pick up any reason to trust Bakaz, and he had encountered people like Bakaz frequently. If Bakaz had been willing to work up through his own people, he would probably do the same with others if a partnership no longer served its purpose.
Nyxxa says: Zar’Kaa did mention you enjoyed torturing him. At least from his point of view.
Bakaz says: You know what they say… if you enjoy your work, you never work at all. Would it have made him feel better if I cried over torturing him and wept over the bodies of his kinsmen? If it would, I’d do it, but I’m not convinced it would. I wouldn’t do the things I’m good at if I didn’t enjoy them. I wager you’re the same.
Nyxxa says: I’m not, actually.
Bakaz says: I’m sorry to hear that. I can’t imagine that’s a pleasant life to live, and I don’t recommend you do it. It can’t be good for your soul, if demons have something like that.
Sol'chi says: Something like that.
Nyxxa says: I can detach myself. I don’t have to enjoy it.
Bakaz says: I guess that’s good for what you do then!
Nyxxa says: It is.
Bakaz says: Look. I know this situation is probably making things more complicated for you than it needs to. But I have no intention of starting anything with the Darkspear. I know them and us forest trolls have not always gotten along, but if we start counting missing fingers, eventually arbitrating won’t keep up.
Nyxxa says: An eye for an eye makes the entire world blind.
Bakaz says: You might know that better than most! What happens now, boss man, you need me to leave?
Arthak Saurfang says: No. I appreciate your candor. I will be honest, I was not particularly concerned with you going after him. I credit you with enough wisdom to know that would be a poor choice. He has requested that you and your people be held back from this rescue operation.
Bakaz says: No sweat off my moss. I have no problem with that.
Arthak Saurfang says: I imagined you would not. After all, you lose nothing. I am still debating whether or not I might.
Bakaz says: I guess we’ll have to find out. In his defense, I will say, the Darkspear are pretty well known. Kind of because they helped kick off the last war, but they have a reputation of their own. A close relationship with Bwonsamdi, a loa of death. Or rather, a loa of the dead. There is a difference. Loa of death is a bit different. Older. Scarier. Don’t know where they’re parked nowadays, but if we are looking for a place to bring the Horde… they may know more than most. Could be worth looking into. And I’m sure they’re not in a great way after the last war. If you’re able to ingratiate them, they could maybe join forces in the future too, maybe even alongside little old me. Whether or not that hatchet can be buried remains to be seen. Either way, it’s an option. We have an old and long history. Outside the actual Gurubashi empire I’d put them in the top ten, maybe top five, as far as tribe size, though it’s hard to tell after everything. You get them on your side, you might get some others. But! The Wake will stand by and we won’t get involved. Don’t think we’d need to, but we’ll keep our hands to ourselves, and our new friend won’t need to worry about it. Though I hope he doesn’t look over his shoulder so much he takes a trident to the chest.
Arthak Saurfang says: Actually, Bakaz, I would like you and your people’s participation. You spoke of burying the hatchet, and it’s clear there are unpaid blood debts on all sides. While I doubt this will ingratiate me with their leader, perhaps it would be good for the Darkspear and your people.
Nyxxa says: technically Zar’Kaa only said he didn’t want the Amani to participate.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well observed. So you and your Revantusk. Your people. I want you there. It would be good for you to help them, and for them to see you help them.
Bakaz says: No complaints here. My crew’s been getting stir crazy. I’m positive they won’t have any problems mixing it up, and obviously you won’t have any issues with them fighting alongside these newcomers.
Nyxxa says: I’m sure Zar’Kaa would be pleased that the Revantusk aren’t extinct. He did mention them.
Bakaz says: Did he? I wonder what he knows about them. I noticed some of the folk on his ship weren’t all jungle trolls.
They agree it’s a good way to show the situation is not all black and white, and not all blood debts need to be paid with blood.
Later on, Ger’hel made her way over to Zar’Kaa.
Ger'hel says: You. Zar’Kaa. Chieftain?
She’s speaking in broken common. Zar’Kaa looks Ger’hel up and down. She’s a hulking, female orc warrior with brown skin.
Zar'Kaa says: Well. You’re a unique one. Yes. Me. Wow.
Ger'hel says: Arthak. Warchief. Order. Here. Fight. Help. Strength!
Zar’Kaa pointed at Ger’hel.
Zar'Kaa says: You. Strength?
Ger'hel says: Strength! You strength!
Zar'Kaa says: Right. You. Help?
Ger’hel curses in orcish and then looks around for a warrior and gestures for them to fight her. However, Zar’Kaa emphasized they weren’t to go too hard. Ger’hel emphasized she wanted to watch the troll warriors fight, and she seemed to start coaching them. Zar’Kaa gets the sense that Arthak had sent Ger’hel to help them, though it was likely contingent on her watching him as well.
Meanwhile, Volrath went to find Arthak and opted to stick next to him asking questions while Zuni was darting around looking for ways to help. Zekhan had inevitably found his way to Shinfel.
Before long, the groups rejoined on Hooktusk’s ship and made their way down to the hold, where the naga siren was being roused. Hooktusk informed them that they had arrived just in time for the fun. Zar’Kaa suggested a good cop, bad cop approach, and Sol decided to turn himself into a heavily wounded naga. Unfortunately he couldn’t speak the language, even if he could understand it. They decide to gag Sol, though Hooktusk suggested she could break his jaw.
Sol'chi says: I’d rather you gag me.
Hooktusk says: Careful what you wish for, little man!
Nyxxa makes herself invisible and they decide to leave Sol in the brig with the naga siren so when she wakes up completely the only face she saw was friendly, that way they could see what information they could get discreetly. Sol also upcasted detect thoughts.
As the naga awakened, she immediately strained against her bonds and cursed as she realized she was captured.
'''Spitescale Siren says [nazja]: You! Myrmidon! Are you awake?
Sol gave a low growl in acknowledgement.
'''Spitescale Siren says [nazja]: Where are we? Where are they taking us?
Sol growled again, as he was gagged.
'''Spitescale Siren says [nazja]: Can you break free of your bindings? Mine are too damned tight. Are they coming back soon?
Sol gave a shrug.
'''Spitescale Siren says [nazja]: Are there any others that they captured?
Sol shrugged again.
'''Spitescale Siren says [nazja]: You useless cretin! Are they taking us back to the island? Do you know that much?
Sol nodded.
'''Spitescale Siren says [nazja]: Then all we need to do is free me from these bindings. You look supple. Free yourself so you can let me out before they come back! The depths blessed you with those claws, now use them! Quickly! Before they can make it to the island!
Sol took the opportunity to dive into the siren’s thoughts. In the process, he caught that, as long as she was on the ship, they would be able to pass through the currents around the islands. The naga turned to Sol again as she picked up that it was him that was reading her mind.
'''Spitescale Siren says [nazja]: You. What are you? Who are you?!
Her thoughts were screaming that she needed to free herself or trick the crew of the ship to kill her. It was all the information they needed.
The rest of the group entered and Sol easily slipped his bonds.
Sol'chi says: That was fun.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well done.
They decide to knock the naga out and post a guard to watch her, however, Sol was still getting thoughts from her, and it became clear she was concerned that Sol might be a traitor from the “Queen’s” forces. She was also panicking, and she vocally demanded that they wouldn’t get anything from her.
Sol'chi says: Oh! You’ve been out for a few days. Everything’s over.
The naga mentally continued to panic.
Sol'chi says: The queen had fun destroying the place.
The siren completely clammed up and refused to speak up anymore, though she was clearly trying to convince herself he was lying, as the queen would have never come personally, and she refused to believe her own goddess Zar’jira would have fallen to the people that captured her.
Hooktusk looked a bit disappointed she didn’t get to have a bit of fun as the siren was knocked out, and she went over and tightened the ropes on the siren. Nyxxa pointed out that, if what the siren’s thoughts said were true, they could only manage a single ship past the currents.
Nyxxa and Sol investigated the unconscious siren, and it seemed there was magic on her person directly–it was a specialized version of the control water spell on her, which seemed to be a transmutation version. It projected a roughly 100 foot aura that would allow her and anyone around her to pass through the tides safely. They fetched Zekhan and one of the orcish shamans that was capable of the magic to see if they could potentially replicate the effect on other ships.
Zekhan says: Winds and waves, I know what I’m asking is not something I’ve ever done before! But please protect this warrior, his vessel, and his peoples through the calm and the storm.
Zekhan attempted the ritual on Arthak, and for a moment Arthak felt a drowning sensation, and then there was a rush of water over him that left him sopping wet. It was not nearly as refined as the enchantment on the naga and would likely fade after a bit, but it would work.
A coldspeaker of the Frostwolves also managed to duplicate the ritual on Hooktusk.
Nyxxa says: So. After all this is over, mind showing me more of the rope work?
Hooktusk laughs and looks Nyxxa up and down.
Hooktusk says: I have no idea what you are, but I’d be curious to see if you can get out. My knotwork is legendary across the Great Sea you know.
Nyxxa says: Promise?
Hooktusk laughed and slapped Nyxxa’s butt as she walked by.
Forces were mobilized and assigned to the ships that would be sailing to the island. As they began their approach, Zar’Kaa looked on with some sense of wonder at First Home. However, as they approached, they noticed a single snowflake that fell and landed on Zar’Kaa’s nose. They also saw the island was covered in snow and ice, like the highest mountains of Alterac.
A cold wind washed over them.
Volrath says: This is… wrong. The snows would never stick, even in the deepest, coldest winters. The islands were mostly tropical.
Any semblance of trees were mostly gone and had instead been covered by a waste of permafrost. What palm trees were still there had been flash frozen, and some seemed to have crumbled. However, the waters were completely unfrozen.
The groups reconvened to discuss a battle plan. In the distance, they could see something large moving. It was a humanoid figure that was carrying a huge shark, and it had seafoam blue skin with a cloak of seaweed. It was walking down a glacier as if it was a road, and it then disappeared behind a chunk of stone.
Flicking through the waters they could occasionally see the tails of naga, and they saw several places they could theoretically land. All of them had their pros and cons, with one being likely heavily guarded, another that was much harder to assault the island from as it was a cliff face, and a third that was the most treacherous to navigate through.
Zar’Kaa believed they should go through the cove as it was the best position even if it was the hardest to enter.
Arthak believed that, because they were sparse on intel, the best approach was to just try and locate the captives as soon as possible while a secondary group operated in a more discrete faction. The infiltration group could work to get captives out, while the main force could make straight for the leader. Once the fight broke out, the forces could converge.
Volrath nodded with a smirk, as it was a wise plan.
However, at that moment, Zuni called out from the crow’s nest as he had heard something.
Zuni says: Captain. You hear that? It’s a voice. I don’t know what she’s saying. It’s a beautiful voice though.
The others tried to listen, but they didn’t hear anything.
Zuni says: Maybe you can hear it up here?
Nyxxa decided to run up to the crow’s nest, and Sol asked if he could poke into Zuni’s mind to try and hear what Zuni was hearing. However, as Nyxxa got to the top of the crow’s nest, a voice entered her mind. She allowed them in and Sol entered Nyxxa’s mind instead.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: A satyr… how very curious to find out here. Amongst trolls, no less.
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: Who is this?
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: I would ask the same. Your ships… why have you come to this forsaken place. I presume it’s to rescue the captives, yes?
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: Mostly seeing what’s going on here. They did try to abduct us.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: Did they now? Perhaps we have a common enemy. How were you able to make your way through… the tides should be repelling anyone that tried to pass into Zar’jira’s lair.
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: Who is this? Maybe it would be best to get a read on this situation. No sense giving intel to the enemy.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: Of course, dear. I’m glad to see that you’re cautious. Zar’jira’s ilk tend to bend the perceptions of those that they wish to break. My party is… a bit down the cover to the west. Your vessels seem a bit large. But if you’re willing, I can help you approach more discreetly. But you’ll need to trust me.
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: What do you have against her ilk?
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: I can explain in person once you arrive. But Zar’jira needs to be brought to justice.
Sol suggested over the telepathic bond it could be another naga group as there was suggested in-fighting.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: Do you require a diversion? Something to lull the Spitescale into believing they have the upper hand?
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: I should converse with the others. If you can stay in my mind, I can give you an answer.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: I can only see the mast. If you wish to speak again, you’ll need to return there.
Nyxxa acknowledged the voice and dropped to the ground to report to the rest of the group. She agreed that it likely was another group of naga that were enemies of the Spitescale, and regardless, if they were going to go to the cove, they were going to run into them.
The Wisdomball was consulted, and it seemed to confirm that it would have a positive result if they went to the cove.
Nyxxa says: I’m wary, but at least they had the decency to let us know they were there.
Zar’Kaa asked Bru’kan what he thought with a whisper. Bru’kan seemed unsure of the situation as well, but if it was a trap maybe the newcomers could prove how competent they were. Nyxxa darted back up the mast.
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: You still there?
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: Of course. Have you conferred with your companions?
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: I did. We’ll have a small force go to the cove, but we want to make sure your distraction doesn’t cause problems for our ships.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: No. I would advise your companions not to panic, but I can provide cover to let your vessel approach unseen. Tell me. Can your people breathe underwater?
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: Most of us.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: Those on your infiltration team?
Nyxxa says [telepathy]: Yes.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: Excellent. That will make this much easier.
Nyxxa relayed to the group that they shouldn’t panic, and the group supposed that this different group might, in fact, be a group of naga. They decided to all be on the infiltration team, even the less stealthy of the group, as Arthak in particular wanted to speak with the naga. He also said he wanted Lantresor with them as well.
Arthak Saurfang says: Bakaz. You’ll be accompanying us as well.
Bakaz says: Wherever I can do the most good.
Zar'Kaa says: Under the ocean would work.
Arthak Saurfang says: Pick some of your best people. Whoever would be good on this operation.
Bakaz says: It’ll be done.
Zar’Kaa ordered Volrath and Zuni with the infiltration team as well. Arthak put several of his trusted lieutenants in charge of the larger assault. Nyxxa scurried back up to the crow’s nest to report back to the voice, and the refugees were ported to a different ship for safety.
Mysterious Voice says [telepathy]: I hope your companions can put up a suitable show of dismay when they see one of their vessels sunk before their eyes. Hold on. And don’t panic.
Magic suddenly pooled in the air, and a bright strike of lightning suddenly impacted the Reuniter. Fires broke out, and it started to sink. Panic started to erupt, and Zar’Kaa and Arthak both got on top of calming those on the Reuniter.
As the ship disappeared under the water, it suddenly began to piece itself back together. There were creatures below the surface waiting for them, and a stone reef completely shielded them from view of the other naga. A whale shark swam over to them and opened its toothy maw. Four massive puffer fish were pushed out of its mouth, and they had harnesses with seaweed lashes. The fish were lashed to the ship, and they started to pull the small ship through the cove. The whale shark disappeared into the distance.
Nyxxa heard the puffer fish exchange commentary with each other as they approached, and when they hit their desired point, the lead puffer called out a command, and all the puffer fish inflated and rose to the surface, bringing the Reuniter with them.
A very different type of naga was waiting at the cave. She had a hard, chitinous shell and six legs. She still had four arms, and a glaive was at her side. Her eyes were shielded by a large conch helmet. She spoke in common first.
Chitinous Naga says: What language would be easier? This or the kaldorei tongue?
Zar’Kaa says he can speak Darnassian, and the naga switched to that language.
Chitinous Naga says: Very well. I will bring you to our lady.
The group followed after the naga. As they approached a sheltered part of the cove, they saw five other naga present. Two of them are reddish-orange and have a chitinous exoskeleton and a conch helm, but are more serpentine like the other more bestial naga. One of the others was a naga siren, but the other two were obviously the leaders.
One was basking on a nearby stone and possessed a long, serpentine tail. She had beautiful, gray-white skin that sparkled, and her six arms were folded delicately around her. She had a massive longbow carved from seashells and ancient stone, and there was the hissing of a dozen snakes, as her hair was made of them.
Next of her was another six-armed naga who had tealish, washed out gray scales, and she similarly had a bed of snakes on her head. Instead of a bow, she had a multitude of weapons, such as a trident, a spear, and a shield made of a turtle shell.
There were a handful of statues in the cove. A few were of naga, others were of murlocs. They all looked horrified.
The first of the leaders spoke with a voice that Nyxxa recognized as the voice.
Gray-Scaled Naga Leader says: Welcome. I trust my diversion did not cause you undue stress?
Zar'Kaa says: No. We pulled through.
Sol'chi says: That was fun actually.
Nyxxa says: Clever!
Gray-Scaled Naga Leader says: Your flattery is appreciated.
Nyxxa says: Good to see a face to the voice.
Gray-Scaled Naga Leader says: Indeed.
The woman lifted herself off the rock, and the snakes on her head were taking in everything around her and every individual that was present.
Gray-Scaled Naga Leader says: I suppose welcome is in order.
Nyxxa says: Thanks… so. Who are you?
Gray-Scaled Naga Leader says: I am Lady Eurayle Vashj, at your service. Hand of the Queen, and here on very important business for her Radiance.
Teal-Scaled Naga Leader says: And I am S’theno Vashj. You can just call me S’theno. You brought quite an army with you. I can’t promise I will leave any of these heathens so they can claim their own glory, but I look forward to the company.
Nyxxa says: So what is the situation? I know not all people are a monolith, but what has brought you against these other… well, naga?
Euryale Vashj says: That is what we are called by the surface dwellers, isn’t it? I won’t hold it against you, but we call ourselves naz’dorei.
Nyxxa says: I’ve been lead to believe we come from the same place.
Euryale Vashj says: Indeed! I’m sure there are many fascinating stories about how a satyr found themselves here. But another day. Zar’jira is a traitor.
Zar'Kaa says: How so?
Euryale Vashj says: She has taken a very important relic from my Queen. One I have been sent to claim.
Zar'Kaa says: What relic?
Euryale Vashj says: A scepter. A powerful one. One that was gifted to her so that she could use it temporarily to achieve her goals. However, she has seen to rise above her station, and she has refused to return it. She styles herself a goddess and has led our brethren astray. I must admire her ambition, but she should no better than to cross Queen Azshara.
Nyxxa says: I’m sorry… who?
Euryale Vashj says: Her Radiance. Queen Azshara.
Nyxxa says: But… she’s been dead for… one that shares the same name?
Euryale Vashj says: No. I assure you. The Empress of the Depths is the very same as the one I imagine you are familiar with.
Nyxxa says: H-how??
Euryale Vashj says: How indeed. When the Sundering rocked out world, Zin-Azshari and so many other kingdoms were sunk. But the Highborne adapt, as they always have. As you can see.
She moves her hands almost hypnotically.
Euryale Vashj says: The Queen of the Sea and Stars rules us ever still.
Nyxxa says [telepathic bond]: The very same that called the Legion to Azeroth in the first place.
Arthak Saurfang says: I would assume that the relic in question is the source of the magical effects?
Euryale Vashj says: Almost certainly. I tell you this in confidence. I understand you wish to release the prisoners, and I wish to return the artifact. I believe we can assist each other, and I promise not to get in your way.
Zar'Kaa says: Sounds reasonable.
Nyxxa says: I suppose the enemy of our enemy…
Zar'Kaa says: Isn’t going to try and kill us.
Euryale Vashj says: I am here simply to clean up a mess. Despite the history that my Queen has with the Legion, I would curious as to what brings not one, but two, demons here.
Nyxxa says: People aren’t a monolith.
Euryale Vashj says: How very curious.
Sol'chi says: I’m on vacation away from my father. It’s been fun.
Euryale Vashj says: Quite an interesting locale you’ve chosen.
Zar'Kaa says: So this Legion stuff aside, whatever that is. Should we make a plan? We’re inside. Now we need to know how we’re going to get you to your scepter and us to to the prisoners.
Arthak Saurfang says: I would assume our new allies would have some of that intel.
Euryale Vashj says: S’theno dear.
S'theno Vashj says: Of course, sister.
S’theno unveiled a rough map that she had created.
S'theno Vashj says: We’ve done some scouting. For starters, Zar’jira’s forces are primarily subterranean. The ancient tunnels beneath the island are where her minions dwell, along with your prisoners. There is a great deal of entrances, and not all of the prisoners are in one location, however, once we get inside, your diversion and our strike force should be more than enough to draw attention away from where she keeps her slaves. You can begin to liberate them. Our forces are small, we only have those of us you see here, but these are some of her Radiance’s most skilled warriors, and we have come here on a very long journey, one we are thrilled to see through to its conclusions.
Euryale Vashj says: Indeed. I believe all of us are looking forward to returning home. And to punishing Zar’jira for her insolence.
From anything Sol could tell, it seemed they were honest about there being no other members of their group, but it was clear that the weakest amongst this particular group was still stronger than even the naga brute they had faced. Arthak was able to pick up that the group was annoyed they had to be here to retrieve the scepter, and they clearly wanted to go back. Euryale was also specifically avoiding talking over much about the scepter itself, and it was clearly very powerful.
Arthak Saurfang says: Very well. I see no reason as to why we shouldn’t work together to deal with this heretic.
Euryale Vashj says: Excellent.
Nyxxa could feel Euryale watching her intently.
Nyxxa says: Apologies… I fear I might have made my displeasure more known than I had meant to. There’s a bit of bad blood between myself and your Radiance, but that shouldn’t be surprising.
Euryale Vashj says: There are many in this world that share such a sentiment. I imagine you were Resistance back then.
Nyxxa says: ...Yes. In fact this transformation is recent, relative to all things.
Euryale Vashj says: Curious. Well we may have been on opposite sides in the past, but I can assure you that seeing you seem to no friend to most all demons… her Radiance has seen the wisdom in not making the decisions she once did. For as little as that means.
Nyxxa says: There is something to be said about seeing the wisdom… but she was responsible for Sundering the world.
Euryale Vashj says: Some might see her Radiance as... above her mistakes.
Nyxxa says: I suppose it’s good that her Radiance failed. Otherwise we wouldn’t have this conversation.
Euryale Vashj says: I suppose so.
Nyxxa says: Best to work on this now. I am grateful to you for illuminating some things… and it’s good to know she’s alive.
Euryale Vashj says: Yes, I imagine it would be.
Euryale smiles and offers one of her hands, which Nyxxa takes.
Nyxxa says: The name is Nyxxa, by the way.
Euryale Vashj says: Charmed.
Sol was staring keenly at S’theno’s snake hair with a hand on one of his pouches.
S'theno Vashj says: They’re an extension of us, you know. I see whatever she does.
One of the snakes winked.
