Appearing Characters: Arthak Saurfang, Azgadaan, Azuka Stormbreaker, Go'el, Halno, Kalecgos, Lantresor, Levia Blackflight, Mordenaku, Nyxxa, Rexxar, Sadras, Toranaku, Tyrygosa, Veraku
Outland Day 35
The battle starts to break out around the group as Veraku and Tyrygosa fight overhead.
Rexxar says: I’ve seen what these beasts are capable of. Let me prevent their gravity-altering magics from affecting you overmuch.
He places a large hand on both Arthak and Nyxxa’s shoulders and casts freedom of movement on them.
The two nether dragonspawn immediately in front of Nyxxa and Arthak brace their weapons and prepare to attack. Nyxxa races forward and scrambles up onto a pillar where a whelp is perched. She swings in and scrapes along the edge of the whelp’s scales with her weapon. It hisses, and flaps its wings--dodging around the second strike.
Nyxxa says [draconic]: We just want to talk to your dad!
The closest nether dragonspawn turns on Nyxxa.
Dragonspawn says [draconic]: Protect the nest!
Nyxxa is able to jump out of the way of the first strike and launches herself off the dragonspawn’s glaive to flip over the second attack, effectively avoiding the strikes.
Arthak rages and leaps at the dragonspawn warp sentinel, wielding Champion’s Forge like a club. The dragonspawn tries to block the attack, but his glaive gets thrown out of his hand--and Arthak promptly kicks it into the water.
The crystals in the area glow and hum in harmony, activating a wild magic surge. Magic coalesces around Levia, and her hair starts to stand up as a purplish-blue energy courses around her.
Levia Blackflight says: Uh. I don’t know what this is about!
Purple lightning starts to crackle in a 20 foot radius, centered on the felblood elf. The crystals are still glowing, a harmonized hum continuing to fill the area. Halno runs by and shoots a blast of energy, momentarily distracting the other whelp.
The other dragonspawn runs forward to back up the sentinel, his glaive scraping against Arthak’s armor. The whelp engaged with Nyxxa takes off, and Nyxxa hits him with with the blunt of her blade. He turns around and shoots off a beam of energy at Nyxxa, who dodges around the blast. Given the whelp was wounded and Nyxxa dodges his attack, he then veers away and shoots away from the battle.
Rexxar steps out of the circle of crackling energy and draws two axes. One of them glows with acid, while the other with lightning, and he throws them in the air. They curve through the sky, but both dragonspawn are able to deflect the weapons aside. Rexxar chuffs.
Sparks glint off the acid and lightning, and a giant dragon erupts from them and takes off into the sky as the crystals trigger something in the wild magic of the area. The illusory dragon swoops down with a wide cone of energy, hitting all three dragonspawn and Arthak.
Puffer also darts out of the magic around Levia, starting to charge towards the dragonspawn near Nyxxa.
Azgadaan casts metamorphosis, pulling his buckle from his metal. The crystal core starts to glow and light crystalizes around him, then shatters. His armor is sleeker, and glistening with adamantine, and there is a ring hovering above his wrists, and a circle of arcane energy on his back.
Azgadaan says: Levia, that aura seems like it’s going to make things difficult for you. Try to dispel it if you can!
His voice seems to have a reverberating quality to it.
Suddenly his diamond armor starts to glow super hot, and it shines brightly as it the ambient magic of the area flows into him and grants him a molten shield effect.
He takes off into the air and used mind sliver on the dragonspawn near Nyxxa.
Go’el runs to back Arthak up and plants a sky fury totem near them, which serves to guide their strikes with the howling gales of wind.
The warp sentinel jumps over to a ledge and gets clipped by Go’el. The dragonspawn opens his mouth, his jaws crackling with electricity as he uses his nether spike ability. There is a surge of arcane energy that blasts through Arthak, Go’el, and Puffer, and Arthak feels the freedom of movement get dispelled from him. The warp sentinel then jumps into the water to retrieve his lance.
Levia tries to leave the crackling lightning aura, but it seems to be following her. She casts toll the dead, but the dragonspawn is able to resist.
More defenders of the brood start to emerge to protect the nest.
The dragonspawn near Arthak rears back and then charges with his glaive, knocking Go’el off the side of the of the rock. He is able to grab onto a ledge and pull himself back up, but the dragonspawn turns and snaps at Arthak, but the chieftain is able to block the bite with his blade.
The crystals stop glowing, but the gravity seems to shift in the area, and the group’s feet start to lift off the ground. Go’el tries to grab onto the ledge again as he floats upward, and he is clearly very confused. The three dragonspawn also start to float, but Nyxxa--who still has freedom of movement--seems to be able to keep moving.
Rexxar throws axes at one of the dragonspawn, casting sting on one of them, but the dragonspawn is able to resist the effect of the spell. Levia flutters to the center of the pool in the middle and casts holy light on Arthak, healing him.
Azgadaan flies over to one of the dragonspawn that had just entered the fight, cracking him with two solid strikes with his maul. Azgadaan then zooms away, and the dragonspawn attempts to snap at him, but is unable to land.
The illusory dragon swoops into the center of the field and breathes another cone of energy over Puffer, Azgadaan, and the dragonspawn. This time the cone seems to be some sort of acid.
Nyxxa leaps on the dragonspawn nearest her, striking with two solid hits. She attempts to stun him, but he is able to resist. The dragonspawn is almost floating upside-down, and he strikes wildly at her with his glaive and misses, but manages to catch her with a snap of his jaws.
The nether whelp breaths a blast of arcane energy at Arthak before swooping along the edge of the battlefield.
Arthak gets big and continues to wail on the warp sentinel, one attack connecting but the other clashing harmlessly off the sentinel’s shield. Arthak starts to float somewhat sloppily through the air away from the dragonspawn, and the other one bites at him but misses.
The warp sentinel starts to bark out orders to the other dragonspawn.
Puffer awkwardly doggie-paddles toward the dragonspawn near Nyxxa, goring him with his tusks.
Go’el’s eyes glow and he holds his hand out, casting whirlwind. Winds starts to swirl in the area, getting pulled into a twister directed right between the warp sentinel and the nearest dragonspawn. One of the dragonspawn drops, and Go’el grits his teeth as he recalls they were not supposed to be killing them.
Another nether whelp enters the battlefield, as does a nether drake which swoops towards Azgadaan. It seems to be casting phase shift.
Arthak floats back to the warp sentinel and grabs the unconscious dragonspawn and throws him out of the whirlwind towards the water. He then smacks the warp sentinel with the flat of his blade once and then twice.
Nether Dragonspawn Warp Sentinel says: I’ll never give in! You shall not hurt them!
Arthak Saurfang says: Admirable, but dumb.
Magic begins to course through Arthak and Azgadaan, and a beam shoots from the crystals at Arthak and Azgadaan. The tether tightens and jerks Arthak and Azgadaan towards each other. The gravity stabilizes, and everyone is dropped to the ground.
Nyxxa smacks the dragonspawn she is engaged with with the hilt of her blades.
Nyxxa says [draconic]: Night night.
The dragonspawn falls unconscious. She then flips over to the dragonspawn warp sentinel and knocks him unconscious as well.
A nether whelp uses chaos bolt at Rexxar, but Rexxar is able to dodge out of the way. Another dragonspawn emerges onto the battlefield, and Rexxar coats an axe with a magical poison as he hurls it at the dragonspawn. The dragonspawn’s eyes flicker, and it immediately falls to the ground, unconscious. Rexxar then rounds on the nether dragon whelp with two other axes. The whelp proceeds to retreat.
The illusory dragon swoops at one of the newly arrived nether drakes, opening its maw and blasting another cone of energy before it disappears.
Another whelp fires off a blast of arcane energy at Go’el and Rexxar.
Rexxar says: Alright, you little punks.
He withdraws more axes in anticipation of chasing the whelps off. However, a dragonspawn closes on him, and forces him to block an attack from the glaive.
A whelp tries to attack Azgadaan with a blast of arcane energy, but it has no effect thanks to metamorphosis. The nether drake nearby looks at Azgadaan and starts to cast dispel magic, but Azgadaan counters it. The drake growls, clearly not pleased, and he flies into melee with the eredar. A nearby dragonspawn also closes on Azgadaan, but the glaive misses.
Go’el moves his whirlwind onto another dragonspawn, battering it with the howling winds.
Levia casts spare the dying on the dying dragonspawn, stabilizing it.
A whelp swoops in and blasts Azgadaan and Puffer with its arcane breath. It washes harmlessly over Azgadaan. The drake next to Azgadaan disappears with phase shift, and a second drake approaches and casts mana flare--destabilizing the magic around him.
A dragonspawn attacks Puffer, but the boar tangles the glaive in his tusks, pulling the dragonspawn in. However, the dragonspawn manages to bite him, dropping Puffer into critical.
Another whelp closes into the center of the field and creates a gravity well around Levia.
Azgadaan flies at the newly-arrived drake, landing a hit with his maul as he calls out inspirational words to Puffer. Nyxxa hits a nearby whelp three times, clocking the whelp in the head with her forehead. As the whelp drops, she catches him on her leg and lets him slide gently to the ground.
Levia tries to cast a spell, but the aura sparks and interrupts it.
Levia Blackflight says: Damn this fucking thing!
She is able to resist the gravity well and flits out of its range.
A dragonspawn charges at Nyxxa, but she jumps over the glaive. It snaps at her, but she lands on top of its jaws and clamps it shut. A whelp blasts Levia with a chaos bolt.
Go’el continues controlling the whirlwind and sweeps it around to catch another dragonspawn. They both get caught up in the howling winds.
The crystals start to hum and glow again, beams of energy darting between them. One hits Go’el, and a sphere of magical energy encases him. He pounds on the side of the sphere, but it seems to be nearly impervious.
As the battle between Tyri and Veraku rages above, it seems that Tyri is clearly winning. Noting that the group is getting swarmed, she swoops down with her breath weapon, the cone of cold and arcane energy washing over a group of dragonspawn and whelps.
One of the restrained dragonspawn in the whirlwind tries to brace itself to escape.
A nether drake tries to use dispel magic on Azgadaan, but he is unable to dispel the ice shield of metamorphosis. However, it does dispel the fire shield effect the prior wild magic surge had placed upon him.
A nether whelp fires a chaos bolt at Azgadaan, who dodges out of the way.
Arthak closes on one of the restrained dragonspawn, and one attack misses, while a second connects.
A dragonspawn charges at Arthak, but the glaive is deflected aside. Seeing an opening, the dragonspawn clamps down on his shoulder, arcane energy crackling around its fangs.
A whelp manages to snip Rexxar and swoops away. A second whelp fires an arcane breath at Nyxxa. She is able to duck out of the way of most of it, but a bit singes her fur. A third whelp nips Arthak and flits away.
Rexxar orders Puffer to retreat and then casts conjure barrage as a bunch of axes fly through the air at a large group of enemies. Puffer disengages and then runs. One of the dragonspawn in the whirlwind manages to break free and then flees.
The poisoned dragonspawn finally awakes.
Azgadaan managed to connect with a nether dragon whelp, knocking it into critical.
Azgadaan says: We don’t want to fight you! Just go home and tell your mother your father is acting up.
The whelp is already fleeing.
A dragonspawn attacks Rexxar, dealing a moderate amount of damage. Another dragonspawn tries to attack Go’el and spends its turn clanking its weapon harmlessly off the magical shield. A whelp tries to nip Nyxxa, but fails, and darts away. Nyxxa clips it, and it opts to swoop through the wall as it flees.
Nyxxa says [draconic]: Sorry!
Suddenly, there is a loud roar from the northeast, and the massive figure of the broodmother appears on the battlefield.
A dragonspawn bites Arthak, and another one engages with Nyxxa while a whelp blasts her with a nether breath. However, Nyxxa is able to duck under the blast.
A nether drake soars through with its breath weapon, nearly knocking Levia from the sky, but her death ward triggers, keeping her up. Another drake closes on Nyxxa, emerging from the stone. It closes on her shoulder and soars through her.
A tether appears between Azgadaan and Arthak again and tries to pull them, but they are both able to resist and break the tether.
A dragonspawn closes on Rexxar and manages to crit him with its glaive, but its bite misses. Arthak drinks a potion and swings at the nearest dragonspawn. He manages to drop the dragonspawn unconscious. Another dragonspawn stabs at Azgadaan, but the eredar’s ice barrier blasts in his face.
Azgadaan says: Stop fighting us. Your father--I’m assuming he’s your father--broke the terms of the agreement with Tyri, and now your mother is coming. Stop.
He points at the broodmother that had just appeared. The dragonspawn looks about and notes that none of the brood had been killed.
Dragonspawn says: We… need to stop this. Before someone gets hurt.
Azgadaan says: Yes. Please.
Azgadaan starts to fly towards the broodmother, his weapon down and a hand raised.
A few whelps try to fly by and nip Arthak. One is successful.
The dragonspawn that Azgadan had spoken to starts to bark at some of the others in draconic, telling them to stop. A few whelps opt to retreat. Across the battlefield, Nyxxa is getting dogpiled.
The dragon broodmother starts to charge towards Arthak.
Nether Broodmother says: Who dares attack my children!
Azgadaan says: We’re not trying to hurt your children! Their patriarch ordered them to attack us! He’s acting dishonorably in this duel he agreed to!
The broodmother turns toward Azgadaan with a glare and then roars. Azgadaan balks slightly.
Nether Broodmother says: I will devour you!
She uses banishing smite and chomps down on Azgadaan, who is completely immune to the damage.
Levia is unable to cast a spell due to the wild magic effect and she curses again. A dragonspawn leaps on Rexxar and knocks him unconscious with a bite.
There is a degree of confusion amongst the brood, as the broodmother was unable to do anything against Azgadaan. The broodmother starts to beat her wings, but Arthak shouts at her, momentarily getting her attention.
At that moment, two dragons start to spiral out of the sky, Tyri on top of Veraku. They slam into the ground.
Tyrygosa says: Do you yield!
Veraku says: Enough!
Veraku seems to be unable to continue the fight.
Veraku says: Stand down! Everyone! You won, witch, you won.
Tyrygosa says: Good. Then perhaps now you’ll listen to me for more than three seconds. We’re not trying to hurt you, we’re trying to help you, though I understand you’re afraid. I am not your enemy, neither are these people here.
Nether Broodmother says: My children!
Tyrygosa says: Have been returned to you.
Tyri scans the battlefield, noting everyone is still alive.
Tyrygosa says: Please. Give me a chance. That’s all I wish.
Go’el dismisses his whirlwind as the battle starts to wind down. The dragonspawn that Azgadaan had spoken to steps forward.
Friendly Dragonspawn says: Mother. Patriarch. Listen to them. They could have killed us, or destroyed our eggs, but they did not.
Veraku says: ...very well. If you mean as well as you say, I will give you this chance. But first, get off of me.
Tyrygosa says: Oh! Sorry. I had to make sure you didn’t try anything. You’re strong, you know.
She gets off him, and the broodmother goes to him.
Nether Broodmother says: Are you hurt, Veraku?
Veraku says: Nothing significant.
The broodmother glares at Tyri, who rolls her eyes.
Tyrygosa says: Please. I’m not trying to move in on your mate.
The group had started to tend to Rexxar, and then they saw an unmistakable flash of magic. Azgadaan recognizes it’s teleportation magic, and he alerts the group. Two figures appear. Both seem to be dragons, one a blue dragon while the other was slightly smaller with more frills and a wide fin on his tail. They look around.
Newly-Arrived Nether Dragon says: What happened here?
He looks over to the other dragons.
Newly-Arrived Nether Dragon says: Brother, sister, what is this?
The blue dragon looks to Tyri, and his voice is recognizable as Kalec’s.
Kalecgos says: Tyri? What has gone on here?
Tyri scratches the back of her horns.
Tyrygosa says: Just a simple misunderstanding, but I believe we came to an agreement. We’re friends now, right Veraku?
Veraku groans and stands up.
Veraku says: Mordenaku, what are you doing here?
Mordenaku says: Well, I came to introduce my friend… but it seems you made friends of your own. Please, everyone. Tend to the injuries so we can speak further.
The two new dragons move forward and take their humanoid forms. The blue dragon once more looks like Kalec, while the nether dragon takes on the guise of an elven man with greenish-blond hair with some horns and frills poking through his hair. Mordenaku holds his hands out to the other dragons.
Mordenaku says: Lets have a conversation on an equal level, shall we? So we can come to a bit of an understanding?
Tyri nods and shifts, and the two other nether dragons transform as well. Veraku becomes a tealish-blue orc who is bald and looks rather grumpy, while the broodmother also becomes an orc in similar colors, though she has pinkish-purple hair that is loosely braided. Their clothing consists of simple robes, and their crests and horns still show on their heads.
Mordenaku looks about.
Mordenaku says: Apologies for my rudeness. My name is Mordenaku. I’m the eldest of our clutch. It’s a pleasure to meet all of you. I understand most of you are friends of Kalecgos’s, yes?
Kalec nods.
Kalecgos says: Good to see you all again, and greetings to the new faces amongst the group.
Kalec’s eyes stop on Arthak, and his brow furrows, but he pushes whatever thoughts had come to mind away. Mordenaku laughs.
Mordenaku says: I’m impressed! Few outside of we clutch mates are able to prove themselves long enough for Veraku to not try to knock them down!
Veraku says: Not for lack of trying.
He glares at Tyri, who smiles at him.
Tyrygosa says: Maybe we wouldn’t have had to do that if you opened your ears.
Nether Broodmother says: Please, Veraku, calm yourself. We won’t solve anything by fighting further. Besides, you don’t want Mordenaku to be upset at you.
Veraku says: Fine. Besides.
He rolls his shoulders.
Veraku says: I’m not in any position to prove any points right now anyways.
Mordenaku says: At this point, I understand why Kalec wanted to speak with us… but why are all of you here?
Nyxxa says: There is something I would ask you, when there is time, but we wanted to help Tyri. And I wanted to help clear up this misunderstanding.
Nyxxa looks at Veraku and his mate.
Nyxxa says: For what it’s worth, I understand the rage of a parent, and I’m sorry. I’m just glad no one was seriously injured.
Veraku avoids eye contact, but the female orc steps forward.
Nether Broodmother says: You have nothing to apologize for. We are far from home, and separated from many of our brothers' and sisters’ broods. We’ve had many people poking around and trying to steal our children and claim our strength. It’s… hard to know who to trust, and we assumed the worst. Especially with the tales that mother has told us. Of others like us.
Nyxxa says: I understand.
Nether Broodmother says: If anything, we should apologize to all of you. Right, Veraku?
Veraku sighs.
Veraku says: Yes. I suppose you’ve proven… at the very least you don’t mean us ill-intent, but I still don’t trust you.
The broodmother rolls her eyes.
Nether Broodmother says: That’s about as good as we can expect.
Mordenaku laughs.
Mordenaku says: That’s better than most guests! You’ll be fast friends in time!
Mordenaku pats Nyxxa on the shoulder and gives her a genuine, carefree smile.
Nyxxa says: Thank you, as long as we don’t have to continue to fight, I call that a win.
Mordenaku says: We have enough enemies on this world. If I can make some allies, that sounds good to me. If you could convince those two, the rest won’t be a problem.
Nether Broodmother says: My name is Toranaku. Pleasure to meet you.
Nyxxa says: It’s good to meet you formally.
Toranaku looks at Azgadaan.
Toranaku says: I’m sorry that I struck at you, though it didn’t seem to do much.
Azgadaan says: I’m fine. The only thing that hurt me was that illusory dragon that showed up.
Toranaku says: I’m glad nothing was permanent. I’m sorry.
She winces as she looks to the more injured individuals but Rexxar waves her off.
Rexxar says: I’ve had worse. Don’t worry.
Azgadaan sees the drakes from earlier.
Azgadaan says: Those two had the right idea. They are rather smart.
Toranaku smiles.
Toranaku says: I’ll be sure to tell them later.
Mordenaku says: I’m glad we were able to make contact even if it was a rocky start. Kalecgos’s and my introduction was a bit less interesting, and perhaps that was better in this instance.
Mordenaku’s expression shifts to something more serious.
Mordenaku says: You had something to ask? I assume it’s about Sinestra?
Nyxxa says: Yes, I’m actually looking for two dragons that were kept captive on the other world before they were brought here. I only know the name of Noristrasza.
Mordenaku thinks.
Mordenaku says: I don’t know anyone of that name, but if anyone does, I wager my mother would. She’s the eldest and wisest, and she’s ensured we were prepared. Her name is Noriyaku. I’m unsure if she knows this individual, but if anyone knows this individual, it’s her.
Kalec and Tyri share a glance with each other.
Nyxxa says: If I could speak to her, people are very worried about what happened to them and if they are still in Sinestra’s grasp....
She trails off.
Nyxxa says: On my own and their behalf, I want to make sure they are alright.
Mordenaku says: That is very kind, and I believe my mother will be glad to hear it. You see, these two dragons are unlikely to be the only ones in Sinestra’s grasp. My mother and her mate, our father. Both of them were in her grasp. My mother was able to escape, but she had to leave our father, Barthamus, behind. We are hoping we can return back in force in time and save him, but I don’t know how long that will take. She is strong and she has many forces. Orcs like you, and other monsters. If we can save him and the rest of our clutch--those my mother was unable to save…
Nyxxa looks over to Arthak, and Kalec nods.
Kalecgos says: The reason Mordenaku and I returned here was that he wanted to speak with his kin and I wished to reach out to Tyri to see how her diplomatic pursuits were going, but that answer has been laid bare. We will be flying to Noriyaku’s nest. It’s located in a place called the Netherstorm. We’re headed in that direction now.
Mordenaku says: I’d be happy to fly any of you with us.
Tyrygosa says: I want to go as well!
The dragons share some looks and Veraku relents.
Veraku says: Yeah.
Mordenaku says: I’d be happy to have you with us.
Nyxxa switches to draconic for a moment.
Nyxxa says [draconic]: No need to translate this. I was requested to look into something in that area as well by our mutual friend.
She looks at Kalec.
Kalecgos says: I see. There’s no imperative nature to this, there’s much to discuss. You can take as much time as you need, and I can reach out to you if the time is right, and you can meet us there if that would help. We can gauge what chance we might have against Sinestra.
Nyxxa nods.
Kalecgos says: At that point we might have a better frame of reference.
Nyxxa says: I have to take stock of a few things.
Kalecgos says: I imagine there are a lot of moving pieces, and a lot of people who may not have chosen to take up arms along one another, but in times like this… well the old saying is that war makes for strange bedfellows, and this may be one of those situations. I believe we can reach further accord. Or at least I would like to hope so.
Nyxxa says: I think there are many things people can agree with, and that Sinestra needs to be dealt with is one of them. There are a lot of pieces moving, and things may change. But first thing is first, yes, eventually, once we reach the Nether Storm, I would like to meet up with you.
Kalec nods.
Kalecgos says: Very well. I will do what I can to reach out to you in some time, once the time is right and once we have made it to their matriarch’s nest. Perhaps then we can work to introduce you and anyone else.
Nyxxa says: Thank you.
Mordenaku claps his hands together.
Mordenaku says: Excellent! We can get going now, if you want?
He looks to the other dragons and Tyri winces.
Tyrygosa says: I wouldn’t mind having a moment to recover. Headstrong as he is, Veraku knows how to throw a mean claw.
Veraku chuffs.
Tyrygosa says: Tending to my injures may be good.
Mordenaku says: That makes sense! We will wait for a bit. I presume the rest of you will be fine, right? And I presume there won’t be more problems, right Veraku?
Veraku says: No, but I would prefer if you all leave. I’d rather not be tried by your presence.
He looks at the group.
Nyxxa says: We might need a place to rest, as long as you don’t mind us resting nearby.
Toranaku nods.
Toranaku says: There’s plenty of safe areas you are welcome to stay, just stay a bit further from the caves.
Nyxxa nods.
Nyxxa says: I would very much like to sit down.
Mordenaku says: Do you mind if I join for you a bit? I’d love to know more about the people that showed my hot-headed little brother what’s what.
Nyxxa says: By all means.
Mordenaku says: Not to mention the more I know about you, the more I can tell mother when I return.
Azgadaan says: I have no issue.
Mordenaku says: Excellent!
Kalec and Tyri head off together to reconvene and compare their notes while Mordenaku wanders off with the group. Levia is still crackling, and she’s quite annoyed, but it starts to subside after about an hour.
Mordenaku switches to orcish and looks at Arthak.
Mordenaku says: I saw them translating, but I can speak in this tongue as well.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes, I don’t speak in the other tongues.
Mordenaku says: Well, I can’t say how I know this language, I did ever since I hatched, but I suppose that’s serendipitous! So, where are all of you going? You said you had other business? I’m curious! There’s so much in this world.
Arthak Saurfang says: Next we’re headed north into the Blade’s Edge Mountains.
Mordenaku says: I see. Be careful, there are many dangerous things there. I suppose you don’t have to worry quite as much, but there are a lot of other orcs that don’t take kindly to our existence. They have metal strongholds. We try to avoid them, but sometimes it brings us into the line of fire of the giants. We’ve lost more than a few of our kind in our efforts to find further roosts. My brothers and I have lost many of our children, and some kin as well.
Arthak Saurfang says: That would be the Blackrock.
Mordenaku says: I can’t say I know of the orc iconography, but it’s the giants I speak of. Large enough to snatch us from the skies…
Arthak smiles faintly, but then he shuts that smile down upon realizing Mordenaku was talking about his kin being murdered.
Arthak Saurfang says: Gronn. Powerful enemies.
Mordenaku says: Tall. Big. Spiky. One eye?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Mordenaku says: That’s them. At the very least, he seems to be as much of a problem for the orcs and their machines…
Arthak Saurfang says: It’s just one?
Mordenaku says: There are multiple, but one seems to be larger. He lives in the canyons to the northwest. We try to steer clear. The screaming metal thing the orcs use is reason enough to give it a wide berth, but this giant and his kindred have no such hesitation.
Azgadaan says: They have a screeching metal contraption? What does it look like?
Mordenaku says: Big. It stretches for miles, and it screams with angry light and steel. It’s full of weapons, weapons more than capable of causing danger. We give it a wide berth.
Azgadaan considers, as the description sounds like a vehicle, and it’s likely some sort of fel machine.
Azgadaan says: Sounds like a vehicle brought here by my people.
Mordenaku says: Whatever it is, I would hope you stay away. After all the mercy you showed me, I would hope nothing bad would happen to you. You can’t miss it. It’s very easy to spot from the sky. I suppose not all of you can fly easily…
Go'el says: We have our ways.
Mordenaku says: Really? Fascinating. Well, you’ll find the long stretch of steel. It seems to connect their metal walls. Seeing they can’t fly, it’s likely their way of moving even faster than we can.
Levia Blackflight says: Do you know where those fortresses are at?
Mordenaku says: I don’t know all, but I know Veraku knows of one that’s too close for comfort. I don’t think it’s connected to the screeching thing, but the ones further north might be.
Go'el says: Does it seem like something we should check out?
Go’el looks at the group.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m interested to see what my old clan has built here. Also, the gronn…
Go'el says: Are you thinking who I’m thinking that is?
Arthak Saurfang says: I am.
Go'el says: Well, it could be worth looking into. Though if Gruul still dwells here, we should keep a wide berth if possible.
Arthak Saurfang says: Maybe.
Rexxar says: If anyone would survive the shattering, it would be Gruul. I would not be surprised. The canyons to the north are still held by the ogre clans that worshipped him. He may yet live with some of his children as well.
Mordenaku says: If he makes his home in the canyon, then their screaming machine goes over it. I suppose that makes sense.
Arthak Saurfang says: It likely means that Gruul is a problem, or will be one.
Rexxar nods.
Rexxar says: When I was last in the area, I saw no machines, but I did notice them laying a strange road covered in metal. Perhaps the screaming monstrous machine uses it to travel.
Arthak Saurfang says: Likely. It would be worth investigating I think.
Levia Blackflight says: My curiosity is certainly piqued.
Nyxxa says: We’re heading in that direction anyway.
Azgadaan says: We are.
Go'el says: If it is an orcish device, I would not be surprised if it’s connected to the Foundry.
Arthak Saurfang says: It might be our way there, and resolving a problem could get us access.
Nyxxa raises her eyebrow, and Arthak puffs on his cigarette.
Nyxxa says: Seems you have something on your mind.
Arthak Saurfang says: An idea. An idea until we find this road. But getting to where we’re going, means getting into the Foundry. You don’t beat the Blackrock in a siege, and infiltrating them is little easier. But…
Go'el says: We could try to walk in the door, but having a reason to do so would make them less suspicious.
Arthak Saurfang says: Exactly. We might be able to negotiate something.
Go'el says: Perhaps we’ll be able to learn more at one of these fortresses.
Arthak nods.
Mordenaku says: I wish you luck! Regardless of what you do, try not to get impaled on any stones? You would certainly be doing us a favor if you do what I think you’re talking about. Our numbers are small enough as it is.
Eventually, Mordenaku gets called away as the dragons are taking off to head towards the Netherstorm.
Mordenaku says: This was a pleasure! Perhaps I’ll be able to introduce you to my mother, and we can work together. But be safe, and may the nether winds grant you safe passage!
Nyxxa says: You all stay safe as well!
Mordenaku nods as he rejoins Kalec and Tyri.
Tyrygosa says: We’ll be quite fine, but your concern is noted. And once again, you have my thanks. Without you, even if Kalec was able to make contact… we made a good impression on more of them than we might have otherwise.
Nyxxa says: Thank you for giving us your trust.
Tyrygosa says: It wasn’t easy, but I suppose I can be merciful. But safe travels.
Azgadaan says: Oh, before you go, I wonder if the growth rate may be linked to the mana rich water…
Tyrygosa says: Oh, yes, and it seems the areas their eggs need to germinate are mana rich areas like this as well and. Well. You know. Maybe you aren’t so bad either, demon.
Azgadaan says: I know.
Azgadaan laughs.
Kalecgos says: You have my thanks. I’ll reach out to you in a bit, and hopefully by then you’ll have addressed your concerns. But at least we dragons are patient. Most of us are, anyway.
He glances at Tyri, and the three dragons transform back into their draconic forms and take off. Mordenaku flips around and waves back to the group and the brood of dragons with his claw. Nyxxa waves back.
Sadras smiles, also waving back.
Nyxxa says: They are a varied bunch.
Sadras says: Suppose they are, aren’t they?
Levia uses the rest of her magic to heal the group.
Rexxar says: Much appreciated. Those four legged creatures are quite strong. Those… dragonspawn, I believe they were called.
Nyxxa says: Very dutiful.
Rexxar says: Seems they exist only to protect the others. At least, that’s how they acted.
Nyxxa says: Strange.
Rexxar says: Not unheard of. There are other creatures that can give birth without a mate, but it’s interesting to see an entity that has two different kinds of offspring. These dragons are remarkable. I wouldn’t mind learning more, in time.
Nyxxa snaps her fingers.
Nyxxa says: Oh, right, Azuka, when you have a moment, I’d like to talk to you privately.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: Oh. Okay.
Rexxar says: It would be smart to continue heading north. There are places in Gorgrond outside the reach of the Horde directly. There’s no telling what we might find there. I’d like to keep a far distance, if we can. But we should have no trouble finding these strongholds or this machine, especially with the Frostwolf’s magic.
He gestures to Go’el.
Azgadaan opts to approach the territory, as he wants to get some crystals, but the dragonspawn stop him. Azgadaan asks if he could grab a small crystal that had broken off during the fight, and the dragonspawn hesitates, but his fellow says they could spare one as the eggs have plenty of crystals to nurture them. The second dragonspawn smiles at Azgadaan.
Friendly Dragonspawn says: Besides, this one could have done untold damage to us. But he helped us. Thank you, by the way.
This one had likely been the one Azgadaan had talked to before.
Azgadaan says: I didn’t want to hurt anyone, and if you tried to hurt me you got a bit of frostbite. Which, by the way, are you alright?
Friendly Dragonspawn says: I’m fine. By the way, that was amazing. I never saw any magic like that before. Not even from mother or the patriarch. It was pretty awesome. But right, you wanted a crystal. One moment.
He wanders off and plucks a crystal which he hands over to Azgadaan.
Friendly Dragonspawn says: Here, this one still has its magic. May it protect you like they protect us. You are friends of the Netherwing flight, as far as I’m concerned.
Azgadaan says: Thank you. I hope no one was too hurt.
The dragonspawn shook his head.
Friendly Dragonspawn says: Everyone is fine. We should have guessed you meant us no harm when no one suffered anything severe, but patriarch Veraku can get spirited. It can be infectious.
Azgadaan says: All is forgiven. Not sure if he’ll take this the wrong way, but he may want to get that meat from between his teeth. It was kind of just hanging there.
The dragonspawn look confused.
Friendly Dragonspawn says: I guess we can speak to mother?
Azgadaan says: Dental hygiene. It’s important.
Friendly Dragonspawn says [draconic]: Does he know we can just replace our teeth as we get older?
Dutiful Dragonspawn says [draconic]: I don’t think he knows that.
Friendly Dragonspawn says: Right, well, I’ll tell mother. And don’t tell anyone I gave you that.
Azgadaan says: I won’t. Don’t worry.
Azgadaan heads back off to the group.
Meanwhile, Nyxxa had pulled Azuka to the side.
Nyxxa says: Do you recall what Tyri said about who you could ask about Veena?
Azuka nods.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: She said red dragons. I don’t know about them, but maybe we can find them sometime?
Nyxxa taps a finger on her chin.
Nyxxa says: There is something I could look into… but I’d ask that you not tell Arthak, and I want this to be your decision.
Azuka is listening, but slightly disquieted.
Nyxxa says: It’s not a decision you have to make now, and not something I can do right now. Take some time to think about it. Come to me if you have questions.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: I don’t know how I feel about going behind Arthak’s back… if you know about these other dragons, let me know. I can tell they aren’t a big fan of him because of the blade he carries. One of them. Does it have something to do with that?
Nyxxa nods.
Nyxxa says: The red dragons would take the most offense to him having that. It’s something I could look into without involving him at all… but not something I want to run into. I’m feeling it out too.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: Well, if it’s something that puts Arthak in danger, I don’t want it. As much as I want to figure out more about Veena, I don’t want him be hurt either. If you don’t want to do it, why did you even offer? That seems stupid.
Nyxxa says: I wanted to present it as an option.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: It sounds like a stupid option, so you shouldn’t. But thanks for offering. I guess. Even if it doesn’t make sense.
Nyxxa says: If I do find something helpful to Veena, I’ll let you know.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: That sounds like a good idea.
Nyxxa says: If I get to a point in this situation… if trust is garnered a bit more, and I feel like I can trust certain people with this information about Veena… but it’s there still. And the situation may change.
Azuka looks confused.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: Okay. I think I’ll just trust you. If there’s ever a moment where it won’t be dangerous to Arthak, or you want to do it, then do it, but don’t do it. Or if it would put him in more danger, don’t do it. He has enough people trying to kill him. That’s that.
Nyxxa says: Thanks for listening, Azuka. I’m sorry I had to be vague.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: I know. You have a lot of secrets. It’s who you are.
Nyxxa says: Hopefully, I won’t have to someday. Arthak doesn’t want to know these things, but…
Azuka Stormbreaker says: Why do you keep secrets then?
Nyxxa says: Because it keeps my friends safe.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: I bet Arthak would say the same thing. Except not friends. He’d use other words.
Nyxxa says: I think you’re right. But, someday, we might have a time without secrets.
Azuka Stormbreaker says: Sadras told me I should be who I want to be. You should do the same.
Nyxxa says: I don’t like telling lies, and I don’t like keeping secrets. But I love the people I surround myself with way more. That makes it worth it.
Azuka loses eye contact with Nyxxa, and Nyxxa ruffles Azuka’s hair.
Nyxxa says: I’ll get out of your hair. Literally and figuratively.
Azuka immediately fixes her hair and they head back. When Nyxxa comes back, Arthak glances up from where he’s meditating.
Arthak Saurfang says: Something I should know about?
Nyxxa shakes her head.
Nyxxa says: Something you mentioned you wouldn’t want to know about.
Arthak Saurfang says: You’re bringing Azuka into it.
Nyxxa says: I brought it up as an option, but she declined. It could have given us more about Veena, but she decided the risk was too great.
Arthak Saurfang says: Would you have told me if she said yes?
Nyxxa says: I don’t know.
Arthak Saurfang says: Okay.
Nyxxa says: I wouldn’t have let any harm come to her.
Arthak Saurfang says: That only goes so far. She’s my daughter. Normal rules do not apply.
Nyxxa says: I understand.
Arthak Saurfang says: If it has to do with her, I want to know. Ignorance with other things.
Nyxxa says: Would you like to know what I told her then?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Nyxxa sits down next to Arthak.
Nyxxa says: You recall when Tyri mentioned that when it comes to Veena, the red dragons may have more information.
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Nyxxa says: I have… a connection I could look into concerning that. But considering what Tyri told us about…
Her head shifts to Quel’delar.
Nyxxa says: They are likely not going to be the biggest fans of us. I just wanted to present the option.
Arthak Saurfang says: Not the biggest fan of me, you mean.
Nyxxa says: You’re the one with Quel’delar, but we’re standing by you, Arthak. And they are not the biggest fans of demons or undead either.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well. Fair enough.
Nyxxa says: But even if that wasn’t the case, after you told her what your plans with the blade were, that reassures me a little, at least.
Arthak Saurfang says: Good.
Nyxxa says: But the situation is… for those reasons, the situation is a mess. I’ve only been parsing out trust, and sooner or later the red dragons will check in to certain things we’ve been doing. I don’t know when, but I’ve been trying to mitigate that. Sooner or later, this will come for us. I want to be prepared. But, not something I can do right now. Maybe us helping these dragons will get back to them as well. And that might help our cause.
Arthak Saurfang says: Maybe. Well. We’ll deal with it as it comes.
Nyxxa says: If the situation changes, then it’s something I can bring up again. But only when she’s comfortable with it. She was worried about you. She didn’t want to do it if it meant risking your safety. I don’t think what I would do would put you in danger, but any risk put her off, and me not being able to tell you also did. You take care of her well, Arthak. She cares about you a great deal. You both do.
Nyxxa’s eye contact fades.
Nyxxa says: I apologize for my blunder.
Arthak Saurfang says: It’s not something we discussed before. New territory.
Nyxxa says: Still. Even if a boundary is crossed in ignorance, it should be acknowledged.
Arthak Saurfang says: Well, apology accepted.
Nyxxa says: I understand the want to protect a child.
She looks over to Levia.
Nyxxa says: I’ll get out of your hair.
Arthak grunts, and he returns to his meditation. Lantresor also joins Arthak, and presents that he is willing to speak if Arthak needed a balancing aid or a sounding board.
Arthak Saurfang says: I’m thinking about Gel’nok... He has a legacy I want to pass on. And I think Azuka is ready.
Lantresor says: You wish to see if she would take on the same magic you use? These breaker runes he taught you?
Arthak Saurfang says: Yes.
Lantresor says: I see.
Arthak Saurfang says: I believe it presents a future for our clan. Something that’s ours and only ours.
Lantresor nods.
Lantresor says: An interesting path. One that blazes a trail I have yet to see. A discipline that taps into the deepest parts of a dying world, and yet… so too has it resonated with Azeroth, as you seem to be more than capable of tapping into that strength beyond the portal as well.
Arthak Saurfang says: True. Shamans can make contact with the elements there too. The worlds aren’t too dissimilar.
Lantresor says: I believe they might be quite dissimilar. But if an orc and a draenei… they come from far off places, if they can reach an accord, perhaps the same can be said of the spirits of the earths, of the winds, of the fires, and of the tides. But, perhaps I have simply spoken to too many shamans in the last few weeks.
Arthak Saurfang says: There has been plenty to speak to.
Lantresor says: A rare gift.
Arthak Saurfang says: Indeed. Though…
Lantresor says: I believe it would be worth looking into. I spoke with Gel’nok a few times, though never at length. He is perhaps even more taciturn than myself. Perhaps even moreso than you, my friend.
Lantresor smiles.
Lantresor says: Yet I know he was a forge of a caliber matched only perhaps by the likes of legend, like those that first forged the hammer, like those of Blackhand. Perhaps one day, like you. I know little of the magic of the breakers you wield, but you are much closer to it than I believe I ever could be. I believe that Gel’nok did not own the techniques he taught you. They, like anything, are a weapon to be honed and sharpened. To be forged, and to be practiced with. Arthak, you are one of the smartest orcs I’ve ever met. If anyone could take the blade he gifted you and forge it anew, you would be the one. I believe Azuka would be amicable to the time. I have no doubt that she would gladly take an excuse to spar with you further, and perhaps she can one day take up the same blade you do, and others. I don’t think I would ever be able to learn such things. I believe the Frostwolves have a saying about teaching an old wolf new tricks, but I’ll be here to support this endeavor if you choose to do it.
Arthak Saurfang says: Gel’nok brought this to me because he didn’t want it to die with him. Making sure it doesn’t die with me is the least I owe him.
Lantresor says: I believe that he would appreciate that. In his own, abrasive way.
Arthak Saurfang says: I think so. And I think you may have one thing wrong, old friend.
Lantresor raises a brow.
Arthak Saurfang says: I don’t think our world is dying. I thought it was. Furies are healing. They are going to change. So is the land.
Lantresor looks to the springs beyond, and the high mountains that blot out the horizon.
Lantresor says: Perhaps I misspoke. Land, maybe it does not die in the same way a man does. Perhaps in this case, this death was something more of a second chance.
Arthak Saurfang says: That’s what I’m beginning to think.
Lantresor says: Then I suppose we have an opportunity. By cutting out the cancerous growths that would kill this world, perhaps we will grant it more chances with which to thrive.
The two settle into silence.
Outland Day 36
The next day, the group gathers their things. The temperature is nice, the skies are clear, and the windows are low. The dragon brood continues to watch them from a distance.
Azgadaan approaches the dragonspawn guards again.
Azgadaan says: Want to try some honey?
Burly Dragonspawn says: Wait! You’re the invincible warrior from yesterday! You withstood the might of mother!
They go on for a bit. Some of the stories are rapidly blown out of proportion.
Inquisitive Dragonspawn says: What’s honey?
Azgadaan says: Do you have any utensils? Forks, cups? For holding water?
Inquisitive Dragonspawn says: Um… if I’m thirsty I just drink out of my claws?
The dragonspawn cups his hands.
Azgadaan says: Alright, do you want to try some?
Inquisitive Dragonspawn says: Sure?
Azgadaan puts some honey in the trio’s cupped claws, and they gobble it up eagerly, and then go to share some with their fellows claiming the “immortal warrior” gave it to them. It seems they are quite enjoying it.
The group takes their leave, taking the shapes of clouds as Go’el uses his wind walk spell once more. The Singing Ridge shrinks as they fly up and over it. The dragonspawn wave them off when they see the clouds lift into the air, their claws likely still sticky.
They travel for about an hour, and they start to see a sea of red spread down below. There is a mountain chain, and in it an orcish stronghold. The stronghold doesn’t seem to have as much fel iron as others--it’s mostly Blackrock iron. Then they see a road. It’s long, maybe 20-30 feet wide that seems to be made of Blackrock iron spokes that shoot through the external gate and into a massive hole in the side of the mountain.
They fly closer, looking for a place to land, and they hear a loud whistle that pierces the air. A massive, leviathan, snake of metal emerges from the hole in the mountain, a light of felfire at the front, and bright green lights shining in every direction. It coasts along, slowing down on the tracks and coming to a stop at the metal fortress.
There are multiple, heavily armored subsections, but there is one that is open with a dozen felcanons split between the left and right sides. In the middle, there seems to be a large canon with four barrels. It seems the vessel has seen some battle damage, but is mostly okay. There are orcs walking along the edge of it, along with a few mo’arg. As it comes to a stop, there is cheering from the orcs as the Grimrail comes to dock.
Arthak stares down at it, and silently, in mist form, he just says “I… need to get one of those.”
